Wild Encounters: Our South African Safari Adventure

Find out all about meeting the big 5 (minus 2)

Our journey through South Africa's wild heart was nothing short of extraordinary. As the sun rose on our first morning, we set out on our safari adventure, with excitement in the air and hopes of encountering Africa's legendary Big 5.  (lion, elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, and buffalo) While we were eager to see them all, little did we know, we were about to experience something even more thrilling than we ever imagined.

The Afternoon Safari – Lions Roar

On the day of arrival, we already embarked on our first afternoon safari, not knowing that this would be the moment that would forever stay etched in our memories.

Our guide informed us that one of the lions needed to be tagged for tracking purposes, which meant we had the rare opportunity to stay and witness the lion family as they ate their prey.

As we sat quietly waiting for them to appear, the lions began to stir, and then, out of nowhere, they started roaring. The sound was so powerful, it seemed to shake the very ground beneath us. It wasn't just a noise you could hear—it was a sensation that vibrated through our entire bodies, making us feel the roar deep in our core. Our hearts raced, and we couldn't help but be in awe of these magnificent animals as they passed right next to our truck. It was a rare moment—a primal connection that few people are lucky enough to experience. As the lions ate their meal and continued to roar, we all shared a collective silence, knowing that we were witnessing a rare and raw spectacle.

The Morning Safari – An Unforgettable Start

Our next safari took place in the crisp morning light. The air was cool (remember to bring a sweater and jacket in this period, you'll need it!) , and the dense African bush felt alive with anticipation. It didn't take long for us to spot the next member of the Big 5: the mighty elephants. Majestic and powerful, these gentle giants wandered through the brush, their ears flapping lazily. Watching them in their natural habitat was a humbling experience. 

Next, we were fortunate to witness a group of rhinos grazing peacefully. There's something surreal about seeing these creatures in real life, their tough exteriors hiding a vulnerability that only a few can comprehend. Our guide explained how conservation efforts are crucial for their survival, adding an emotional layer to the moment. The fact of the matter is that the horns are cut by vets to stop the poachers. The good side about this is that it has stopped the poachers and the rhino death toll is down a lot. 

In between all the heart-racing moments, we were also fortunate to witness the grace and elegance of giraffes, strolling across the savannah with their long necks reaching for the treetops. Their serene demeanor and seemingly effortless movement added a peaceful balance to the thrill of the big cats and elephants.

Not far from the giraffes, we encountered a group of hippos cooling off in a nearby watering hole. The contrast between their lumbering, massive bodies and their surprising agility in the water was captivating. We watched as they grunted and interacted with each other, seemingly oblivious to our presence.

As the sun began to set, we had one more hope: the elusive cheetah. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we didn't spot one on this trip. But that's the beauty of safari—it's not about checking off a list; it's about experiencing the unpredictability and magic of nature. We were still beyond grateful for the animals we had encountered, especially considering how much we had already seen in just one day.

Reflecting on the Big 5

By the end of our safari, we had witnessed three out of the Big 5: the elephant, rhino  and lion (though the leopard and buffalo had eluded us this time). While we didn't see the them all, we couldn't help but feel incredibly fortunate to have had such an intimate and raw experience with some of Africa's most iconic creatures.

This trip was a reminder that the real magic of a safari lies not just in the animals you see, but in the moments of connection, the sheer beauty of nature, and the unpredictability that makes every safari unique. Our hearts were full, and our souls were forever touched by the untamed beauty of South Africa.