Safari , so good
In 2006 I went to just a small part of this vast country, the Mpumalanga region to sample a safari. South Africa is fortunate in having many National Parks, Kruger being one of the best known. Mpumalanga has amazing scenery including Blyde River Canyon (this is the 3rd largest in the world!).The area is also full of history and a visit to Pilgrims Rest (a replica of an early gold mining town) is a must.
We flew into Johannesburg and then took a small plane to the private airstrip at Mala Mala Game reserve. The accommodation is in air conditioned rondavels (round detached bungalows) all with his and hers bathrooms and furnished in African style. A wonderful experience.
The safari guides are all experienced rangers, most have been to University and have so much information to pass on, but do it in a way that is not like being back at school. We ventured out in 4x4 vehicles into the reserve, and if lucky, there is an opportunity see the Big 5. This includes elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino and leopard. You are so close to these wild animals that you find yourself holding your breath at times. It truly is an honour to see these majestic animals in their own habitat. Mala Mala is not a “pretend” game reserve, you really are out there with the wildlife. We saw a pride of lions stalk, chase & finally kill a buffalo. This is a rare sight to see. When back at the lodge, everyone seems to share a story about the safari, and the guide joined us for the evening meal, which is a lovely way of getting to know them as people and not just guides. They have a “boma” which is a open air reed enclosure where food is served to you from the barbecue whilst you sip wine whilst sitting under the stars.
We then went on to see other areas of South Africa, but too many memories to pass on, so I will save it for a later journal.
South Africa has lots more to offer including fine wines, good accommodation, fabulous sightseeing and wonderful friendly people. There is a 2 hour time difference between us, so no dreaded jet lag. I would say, give it a try, you will be amazed.
Thank you for taking time to read my personal journal.