I just returned from a wonderful 11-day tour in South Africa with Bench Africa. Africa has been at the top of my bucket list for at least 12 years, and it certainly didn't disappoint.
Here are just 5 of my most unforgettable moments in South Africa:
1. Volunteering with the cheetahs
The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre is a unique African wildlife facility focusing on conservation and the sustainability of rare, vulnerable and threatened species. Founded on passion, the centre has adopted a holistic approach to its conservation activities, such as the educating of surrounding communities, tourism, breeding, rehabilitation and anti-poaching, to name a few.
2. Watching a pride of lion eating a kill
Within 8 hours of being in Kapama Private Game Reserve we were lucky enough to see this wonderful sighting! We were so close we could have touched them!
3. Seeing all of the ‘Big Five’
We were fortunate enough to see all of the 'Big Five'. Something that not everyone gets to experience, especially on a first trip to Africa. Here's a video of our first leopard sighting - AMAZING!
Thanks to Stuart for this fantastic vid!
4. Experiencing African sunsets on safari
The sunsets in Africa are incredible - almost spiritual. Watching them with a G&T in hand, or a glass of wine... as well as delicious South African nibbles. What could be better?
5. Witnessing a tracker spot and pick a chameleon out of a tree in the dark of night on safari
This was absolutely incredible! Our tracker at Shumbalala Game Lodge stopped on a night drive to pluck this little fella out of the deepest darks of the African bush. He spotted it as we were driving along at 20kph. His eyesight is phenomenal. Hats off to you, Colbert!
I enjoyed my trip with my group of friends and I'd certainly recommend booking a trip with Bench Africa for you and your friends!
