IOL Travel March 2021

Editor’s note

I TOOK my first safari trip to Thanda Safari Lodge for my birthday four years ago.

With my sister as my plus 1, we spotted four of the Big 5 (sadly, we didn’t see any leopard), indulged in gourmet cuisine, heard fascinating tales from our game ranger Zee, and enjoyed a photography lesson from renowned photographer Christian Speka. By the end of the weekend, I didn’t want to leave.

Safari travel soon became my new passion, and every game drive offered something remarkable.

It made me appreciate nature and understand how the wild works.

Safaris are ideal holiday options for the pandemic.

You can social distance, put your feet up and unwind after a long week. Most lodges offer all-inclusive packages, so you know every last detail will be taken care of.

I understand that safaris are not favoured by many or within everyone’s budget, but I hope this month’s magazine entices you to book a trip or make efforts to save for one.

There’s plenty of content to keep you enthralled, from our spread on South African luxury lodges to walking safaris.

We also provide you with tips on what essentials to take and what to avoid on your next safari adventure. Celebrities are big on exploring the wild.

From Bonang Matheba, Somizi Mhlongo-Motaung and Hilary Duff, these celebrities spared no expense when it came to booking at luxury game reserves where they indulged in gourmet cuisine, bush inspired activities and wildlife sightings.

Grab yourself a drink and let your safari adventure begin.

Until next month.

Clinton

Contents

5 luxury game lodges to visit in 2021

Safari essentials

Tintswalo Family Camp: Where guests become family Relax, unwind, repeat

Safari on foot

5 minutes with a game ranger 5 things you shouldn’t do on your next game drive

A view to die for Celebs on safari