South Africa
Sabi Sands + Kruger
The photo above was our first moment in South Africa. A 20 hour flight and a 6 hour car ride later, we got to camp. We hadn’t showered, barely slept, hurriedly brushed our teeth, and then we were off on our first game drive! We went to Sabi Sands where the vehicles aren’t required to have roofs, and you can go off roading to get closer to the animals. Within minutes of our first drive, we came across our first herd of elephants. This is a memory I could live in forever.
Wildlife Sightings
Our first drive
We were told we likely wouldn’t see cheetahs during our entire stay because the guides hadn’t seen them in a very long time. We lucked out again and saw them on our first night.
Accommodations
We stayed in two camps, one in Sabi Sands and one in Kruger, but they both looked like the below. It was a nice elevated tent with full furnishings, even an a/c. We had breakfast, lunch, and dinner included - everything was delicious.
Our Guides
Before I go into a ton of animal photos (because hey, thats why I went on this trip!), I want to introduce you to the wonderful souls who made all of the below photos possible.
We stayed at Tydon Safari. Sadly they shut down during the pandemic. If they reopen or you can find any of the guides that used to work there - I’d highly recommend. I honestly only have great things to say about our entire experience.
Safari’s are for everyone. Younger, older, thrill seekers, couch potatoes - honestly anyone that likes animals. Most of the time you’re riding in the vehicles, so there isn’t much physical exertion, but it’s exhilarating.
My favorite encounters
the monkey stole my gum
Everyone warns you that monkeys are thieves and to not leave anything unattended. I but my bag down for one second to change lenses and they swarmed in. Thankfully they dropped my gopro and only took a pack of gum.
A few non perfect pictures that highlight the experience. We went in late July / early August so it was Winter. It never got too cold but I would definitely recommend bringing layers.
