WATCH: Giant python gets comfortable in Mbombela house

Updated Nov. 24, 2025, 5:14 p.m. | By Jacaranda FM

The snakes aren't in the planes; they are much closer!

Living in South Africa comes with many risks.

While we don't ride around on elephants and lions, some dangerous wildlife can be found in our backyards.

Snakes are some of the animals that enjoy creeping around in gardens, over the golf greens and even into cars across the country.

You might think South Africa is home to smaller or average-sized snakes, but there are some big boys out there.

A local man working from home recently got the fright of his life.

According to Netwerk24, Simeon Combrink (33) was visiting his parents in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, before relocating to the Western Cape soon.

The software engineer was busy with work when he realised something was wrong.

Snakes might be common in the town, but Combrink and housekeeper Linah Vilakazi could not believe their eyes.

Simeon decided to upload the video he filmed on social media, and naturally, it went viral and has been reshared on various platforms.

You can watch it below:

(Warning: the video does contain strong language)

Many viewers asked what happened to the snake, and Combrink shared that snake experts assisted him in removing the python from the home.

It was safely rehomed a few kilometres from the house.

Here are some facts about the Southern African Python, courtesy of the African Snakebite Institute:

Full Name: Python natalensis.
Other Names: Suider-Afrika Luislang.
Previously known as: African Rock Python.
Classification: Non-venomous/Has a nasty bite.
The Southern African Python is South Africa's largest snake.
Reaches a maximum length of around 6m.
Weighs upwards of 65 kg.
Feeds mainly on warm-blooded prey: small antelope, monkeys, game birds and dassies, but also leguaans and crocodiles.
Attacks on humans are rare, and fatalities are virtually unheard of.
Primarily active at night, but is fond of basking during the day.
At home in water and can remain submerged for long periods.
Protected in most provinces.

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Image: Simeon Combrink/Instagram