If you read Part 1 of my highlights of Africa adventure, you’ll know we left off at the incredible Savanna Private Game Reserve in South Africa. We’d already experienced a luxury rail journey, wine tastings in Cape Town, and unforgettable game drives. But the adventure wasn’t over yet.
Next Stop, Zimbabwe!
We stayed at a great hotel right on the Zambezi River and enjoyed a sunset cruise, with lots of bird watching and hippo spotting. The next day was all about Victoria Falls! Visiting the Falls was truly a dream come true. There is a long path that meanders past 16 different viewing spots. Having a rain jacket was really pointless. The only way to stay dry would have been to be covered from head to toe. I definitely put my quick-drying clothes to the test.
We were hosted for dinner at a local restaurant. Our host is a very special man who everyone knows just by his first name…Blessing. Blessing is a philanthropist and conservationist—and a true blessing to his community.
When I say Africa changes you, it does. Meeting Blessing is one of those things that will stay with me forever. You can read more about him here.
Extending the Journey
Most of my group left the next day, but I continued on to Kenya for another week of adventure.
Before my flight, I was able to visit another property that I have worked with, the Royal Livingstone. It’s a fantastic 5* property on the Zambia side of the falls. It took two taxi rides and a border crossing to get there, but it was worth it.
The property is spectacular, the staff welcoming and friendly, and they have resident giraffes there. I was in awe of how close you could get to them. Then, the question that made my day…did I want to feed one? Um, yes! Of course I wanted to.
A Special Encounter
Speaking of animal encounters, I have followed the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust for quite some time. Amongst other things, they rescue orphaned baby elephants, raise them, and reintroduce them to the wild. I absolutely LOVE elephants. I had arranged a private visit for my group. We first watched them being fed—they are all bottle fed. Then we got to interact with them. This was absolutely one of the highlights of my trip.
Above is a picture of me with Muridjo, the 3-year-old female I adopted. We also got to meet a sweet little 2-year-old black rhino named Raha. She was attacked by jackals before she was rescued. She sucks on the keeper’s pant leg like a pacifier. Due to the extent of her injuries, she will never be released into the wild.
Reservations need to be made well in advance, so if you’re interested, let’s plan ahead.
More to Come from My Highlights of African Adventure
There’s still so much more to share, but I’ll save the rest for the final chapter. Make sure you’re signed up for my newsletter below so you don’t miss it! And if you’re dreaming of your own African journey—or any other destination—I’d love to help you plan it. Let’s connect!