Wohoo, the safari industry is recovering! We wanted to give you a traveller’s perspective of what it’s like to travel to Africa right now. First up to share her travel diary is Kristin Henley. She went on safari to South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe for about 1,5 weeks with a friend.

Her answers are a snapshot, a quick point-and-shoot picture of her multi-faceted trip. Because to truly feel Africa you need to come see it for yourself.

Let’s get into it, over to you Kristin!

 

How did this safari make you feel?

Welcomed, pampered, and at ease in the natural world. All the good things about a safari in Africa were present and it was life-changing for me. It was an escape from the petty things in the world, gave me a reason to slow down, and time to enjoy the world’s beauty.

 

What was a highlight for each place you stayed at?

Camp Moremi has undergone a beautiful refurb. Our thatch-roof tent was wonderful: spacious with double closets, and comforts like hot water. The staff exude a welcoming happiness and warmth. And the game viewing was the best of our entire trip!

Camp Okavango’s diverse food was the best of the Desert & Delta camps. The water activities were a nice change, but if guests are wildlife-focused or get bored easily, this may not be for them. We enjoyed the mokoro activities (traditional canoe) and guided bush walk. The star gazing, elevated walkways, and sunset views were exceptional.

Chobe River Lodge with its “four walls” and air-con was a good climate-controlled break. The meals were always served in different locations; game viewing and the evening cruise’s sunset were the highlights.

Matetsi in Zimbabwe was exceptional at every level. This is a 5+ star accommodation. Our room was stylish, elegant and had both heat and air-conditioning (we were very cold one night). The staff and management are unparalleled and the cuisine is fantastic. The game viewing was good but not as wild as the other areas as you see signs of civilization. But the bush experiences were amazing, especially the dinner.

We loved our day tour to the Victoria Falls from Matetsi and would highly recommend it as a stand-alone experience at the camp.

Johannesburg, South Africa, was the city we arrived and departed from. We loved both the Saxon Hotel, with its sublime common areas, and Fairlawns, an exceptional landing spot after a long trip.

 

Do you have any advice for someone going there?

One piece of advice that I would give is do not over-pack. Also, take warm clothes during winter in Botswana’s Okavango Delta … I’d even recommend ski clothes!

 

Did you learn any surprising facts?

The sustainability efforts at the camps are impressive. As is their level of service and ability to provide well for the guests. I was also surprised how easy it is to jump from camp to camp in Botswana. The flights were scenic, pilots are great, and punctual. It’s more seamless than a normal airport routine; it was predictable and felt safe.

 

What type of client is this for and why?

Anyone traveling to these places should have some level of adventure and love of the outdoors. While you are still totally pampered, it is not for the overly-fussy or for travellers who have to have the perfect temperature every minute.