Background

The Sussens family history stretches from across Africa and the European continent, where Alina “Ala” Kuchinska was born in Poland. Ala had a hard life during World War 2 and was later exiled to Zambia. Here she met Alfred “Lolly” Sussens, a professional hunter turned conservationist, and together they made a name for themselves. They were involved in safaris and tourism in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Ala started the famous “Flame Lily Tours” in conjunction with Rhodesian Airlines, and the “Sundowner Cruises” on the Zambezi. Later they made a success of the Chobe River Safari Lodge in Botswana.

The former cattle farm, previously owned by President Diedricks demanded hard work and dedication from the whole family. Seven years into their labouring the Sussens discovered that there was a great need for healthy lions in game reserves around the country. The area was not very supportive of lions due to the many cattle farms; problem lions crossing from the Kruger National Park were often destroyed. In a bid to solve two problems in one go, the Sussens family offered to take any problem lions, and in turn built up a breeding project. This meant that lions could be rescued and either re-introduced or at the least the next generation would have a chance to be introduced into a different game reserve.

Besides committing their efforts to preserving a piece of nature and breeding lions to ensure healthy generations to come, the Sussens family has also developed a reputation for raising orphaned animals. No matter the size or shape, animals are welcomed and cared for until they are ready to survive on their own. Everything from birds and squirrels to elephants and giraffe have been given a second chance. And the young lion cubs, Savannah the cheetah and all sorts of other animals have joined the morning walk in their time, making it the amazing experience it is today.