A Moment to Remember: Sharing Space with ‘Xidudla’, One of Africa’s Last Great Tuskers

Life offers many unforgettable moments, but for one lucky visitor, coming face-to-face with a living legend was something truly extraordinary.

While on safari in the African wilderness, a rare and powerful encounter unfolded — a peaceful meeting with one of the continent’s last great Tuskers, an awe-inspiring elephant named Xidudla.

With his enormous, sweeping ivory tusks and calm, dignified presence, Xidudla is more than just an elephant — he is a symbol of Africa’s ancient majesty and a silent ambassador for endangered giants.

“Life is full of special moments,” the visitor shared. “But sharing one with this magnificent Tusker called Xidudla was truly unforgettable. Such a privilege!”

Tuskers are male elephants whose tusks grow so long they often brush the ground — a rare genetic trait that makes them icons of the wild, and tragically, targets for poachers. There are fewer than 30 true Tuskers left in Africa today.

Conservationists working in protected reserves have spent years ensuring Xidudla’s safety, carefully monitoring his movements, and raising awareness about the urgent need to protect such gentle giants.

Those who’ve seen him describe a sense of awe, humility, and peace. “Being in his presence changes you,” one ranger noted. “You realize how small we are in comparison to the ancient wisdom in his eyes.”

Xidudla’s name, meaning “the fat one” in Tsonga, is a nod to his impressive size — but it’s his spirit, not his mass, that leaves the deepest impression.

As tourists, rangers, and animal lovers around the world rally to protect the last of the Tuskers, every peaceful encounter like this one becomes a reminder of what’s at stake — and what’s still possible.

For one visitor, the moment has passed — but the memory of standing near greatness will last a lifetime.