Curator’s statement
Safaris in Africa are an incomparable experience. Our May trip to celebrate our daughter’s college graduation took us through the stunning landscapes of Zimbabwe and South Africa. From the serene Zambezi River to the untamed wilderness of Greater Kruger and Sabi Sands, this was the adventure of a lifetime.
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Days 1–3: Matetsi Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Luxury Safari on the Zambezi River: A Stay at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Our first stop was Matetsi Victoria Falls, a luxurious haven on the Zambezi River. Our suite featured a private plunge pool with a view of the river, where hippos bellowed at night. On arrival, playful warthogs and baboons interrupted a delicious lunch. It was an exciting welcome to safari life. Our first game drive brought close encounters with elephants, giraffes, baboons and a leopard spotted after dark. That evening, we celebrated with a traditional boma dinner, complete with local dancing and even a birthday cake for me! Our next morning drive came a little too close to a bull elephant in musk, raising our heartrates. Our guide expertly negotiated the opposite direction and we found a lone honey badger stalking prey.
Matetsi offered a serene sunset river safari where we saw hippos, crocodiles and elephants along the riverbank. We explored Victoria Falls by helicopter, followed by a visit to the National Park and the falls. The views were breathtaking, with rainbows shimmering in the mist. Our daughter capped the day with a thrilling bungee jump over the Zambezi gorge, while we watched safely from the rim.
Days 4–6: Dulini River Lodge, Sabi Sands, South Africa
Sabi Sands Safari: The Ultimate Luxury at Dulini River Lodge
After a short flight to South Africa and a scenic drive, we arrived at Dulini River Lodge, an intimate retreat in the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Nestled along the serene Sand River, the lodge immediately impressed us with its elegant accommodations and incredible wildlife. Our suite featured a heated plunge pool overlooking the river, where we often spotted giraffes gracefully grazing and elephants meandering during our meals. Even the resident nyalas added to the charm, lounging peacefully on the grounds between the suites.
Our first game drive set the tone for an extraordinary adventure. We were thrilled to encounter our first lions — two lionesses and their playful cubs swatting at each other as dusk settled over the bush. The following morning brought another unforgettable sight: a pride feasting on a freshly hunted water buffalo. That same evening, we spotted rhinos, adding yet another member of the Big Five to our list.
Our guides tracked a pack of wild African dogs — a rare and thrilling sight. Our guides expertly tracked the pack. We were fortunate to witness their intricate social dynamics and the raw intensity of a successful hunt. Being so close to the action — within arm's reach of their feast — was truly unforgettable.
The Sabi Sands is famous for its high density of leopards, and we quickly understood why. Nighttime escorts to our suite were non-negotiable, given the possibility of these elusive predators wandering nearby. During one drive, we spotted a stunning leopardess and her cub perched in a tree, with hyenas circling below, patiently waiting for scraps. The drama of the scene and the grace of the leopards left us in awe.
Dulin’s guides were exceptional, their deep knowledge bringing every game drive to life. From the thrill of tracking predators to the quiet beauty of the bush, this lodge delivers unforgettable experiences
Days 7–8: Thornybush Saseka, South Africa
Thornybush Saseka: A Colonial-Inspired Safari Experience
Our final lodge, Thornybush Saseka, offered a colonial-era charm with modern comforts. Our tented suite has a spacious deck and plunge pool overlooking a dry riverbed. The highlight of our stay was our guide, Grant, whose decades of experience and fascinating stories added depth to every moment.
Wild dogs made another exciting appearance, and we witnessed two male hippos in a fierce battle — an awe-inspiring display of power. A sobering moment came as helicopters tranquilized rhinos to remove their horns for anti-poaching efforts, showcasing the vital work of conservationists.
Another unforgettable sight was a scavenger's feast on an elephant carcass. Over 200 vultures and a dozen hyenas had stripped it bare, a vivid reminder of nature’s cycle of life and death.
Evenings at Saseka, like all our lodges, end with spectacular sunsets and starlit skies, free from light pollution. The camaraderie among guests and guides made these moments truly special.
Need to know
We spent eight unforgettable days at three lodges, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife encounters and luxurious accommodations. I highly recommend staying at multiple lodges for at least two or three days each. This approach maximizes wildlife sightings as animals roam freely across vast, fenceless national parks and reserves.
Safari days start early with a 5:30–6 am wake-up call for a three-hour game drive at sunrise. Midway through, there’s a coffee or tea break with light snacks. At least once during your stay, a fresh, hot, seated breakfast, during the drive, is served in a breathtaking outdoor setting. After the morning drive, the day is yours — relax with spa treatments, a swim, nap, or simply unwind until the evening game drive around 3:30–4 pm. Dinner follows the evening safari, and meals at most lodges are exceptional, often paired with fine wines or cocktails.
May is an ideal time for a South African and Zimbabwean safari, marking the end of fall with mild, dry weather. Morning temperatures hover in the mid-50s, warming to the mid-80s by the afternoon. The bush is less lush but still vibrant, making wildlife easier to spot.
Planning such a journey requires expertise, and having a travel advisor is a must. As a Fora Travel Advisor, I work with a team in South Africa who coordinates directly with travel advisors, lodges, guides and private tours. We handle everything — safety measures, travel restrictions, in-country, flights and visas. For planning our trip, this partnership crafted a seamless, bucket-list itinerary tailored to our wishes.
South Africa’s Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, Cape buffalo and rhinoceros) and more incredible wildlife are a major draw. Over 60 lodges are found in the Greater Kruger, Sabi Sands and Thornybush areas and range from ultra-luxury to moderate accommodations. A travel advisor is an essential key in finding the right fit and managing availability.
Travel Advisor
Audra Thomas
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