Search Results for: Safaris

Wednesday was a travel day…Now amid more safaris at Kanha National Park…

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Note: All of today’s photos were taken from the car on yesterday’s road trip. No captions needed.

Yesterday, as I wrote this post we were in a crisp clean white SUV with air-con comparable to other vehicles that have been transporting us from one location to another.

It was travel day once again with an expected 5½ hours drive time until we’d reach our destination and yet another safari camp, Tuli Tiger Resort, this time to Kanha National Park where we’d be spending another four nights with two game drives each day.

The drive is interrupted every three or four kilometers by small towns lined with shops and vendors selling fruit and vegetables, clothing, and a variety of tourist goods and household goods for the locals.

Cows, dogs, and goats wander through the streets aimlessly in search of the next meal and women walk with baskets of food and other items atop their heads, while men congregate in small groups discussing the events of the day.
The women wear colorful Hindu costumes impeccably draped and pleated regardless of their income level of poverty. The beautiful garb us unlike any other we’ve seen in the world. Although each town may have its own personality the premise of the Hindu philosophy is evident in every aspect of creating a certain familiarity from town to town.

Once back out on the highway, the landscape is brown and somewhat desolate, scattered with trees and vegetation of one sort or another. It’s winter time here and until the monsoon season arrives everything the grasses remain brown and less hearty for the cows and other animals in search of good grazing fields.

With nary a patch of green for meandering cows and sheep, they often seek out public areas in hopes of food donations from the locals who appear at times to be very generous with their sacred cows. Hindus have a love of all creatures, both human and animals.

People often smile and wave as we pass through. School children in freshly pressed school uniforms play together in the streets without a toy or a ball and yet seem happy and content in their lives.

Their simple life is accepted with a powerful faith not so much as a religion but as a way of life leaving them grateful and accepting of whatever lifestyle they’ve been provided.

We are humbled and in awe of their dedication and their strength as they work their way through any obstacles life presents them. Many have no access to medical care, modern conveniences, clean water, and in many cases such taken for granted commodities such as electricity.

These individuals and families work together however they can to create the best life possible without complaint, without disharmony and without a longing for what could have been.

I often think of all the times I’d grumbled when making a call for customer service to end up with a heavily-accented Indian person on the line, often working in a hot uncomfortable boiler room taking calls for various digital and computer equipment companies all the way from India to provide customer service for companies in the US. Now, I have an entirely different perspective.

In a land of 1.3 billion people there’s is little to no government subsidies such as welfare, food stamps or government assistance. Overall, Indian people are on their own.

We’ve seen fewer homeless people here in India in the almost month we have been here than we saw in an equal time in the US. That speaks for itself and the powerful work ethic and life values imposed by their Hindu strength and principles.

This morning at 5:30 am we began our first morning safari from the resort. We didn’t see any tigers yet but we have five more safaris scheduled at this location, including another today at 2:30 pm. 

By the time we return for the afternoon game drive at 6:30 pm, we’ll freshen up for dinner, dine at 8:00 pm and head to bed shortly thereafter. It’s a busy and exhausting day but typical in the lives of wildlife enthusiasts like ourselves.

Have a fantastic day and night!

Photo from one year ago today, February 27, 2019:

The kudus give us “the look,” which means “more pellets please.” For more photos, please click here.

The horrific flooding in Kruger National Park and Marloth Park…

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Not our photos. The Crocodile Bridge is completely underwater due to flooding in the area.

Click this link below to see the flooding that has immobilized Kruger National Park and the surrounding areas.

Kruger National Park floods — Reuters TV reports

Currently, while we’re tucked away here in New Zealand, surrounded by green hills and a quieter pace of life, our hearts are anything but settled. Each morning, with coffee in hand, we scroll through Facebook and watch YouTube clips posted by friends in Marloth Park. What we see stops us in our tracks. Familiar roads are no longer roads at all. They’ve become rivers. The Crocodile River, usually a powerful but contained presence, has spilled over its banks with a force that feels both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

The Crocodile Bridge, our usual entrance point into Kruger National Park, is completely submerged. That image alone is jarring. We’ve crossed that bridge countless times, early in the morning, when the air is still cool, and the bush is waking up. We’ve sat in line there, windows cracked, listening to birdsong and watching vervet monkeys dart between trees. To see it now, swallowed by floodwaters, makes the distance between here and there feel immeasurable.

Not our photo.

In the past few days, Kruger National Park has been closed to all visitors from every entrance gate. That fact carries weight far beyond canceled safaris and disappointed tourists. Kruger is not just a park; it’s a living, breathing ecosystem and, for many people, a place of work, home, and deep emotional attachment. When Kruger closes completely, you know the situation is dire.

The devastation is widespread. Many of the camps within the park are underwater, some completely. Roads have washed away. The infrastructure that took years to build and maintain has been damaged in a matter of hours. But what weighs heaviest on our minds is not the physical destruction—it’s the people and the animals who are suffering dearly.

Our friends in Marloth Park are sharing updates that feel surreal. Homes are dangerously close to rising water. Fences twisted or gone altogether. Power outages. Uncertainty hangs thick in the air. Marloth has always lived with wildlife as neighbors, but now both humans and animals are facing a shared vulnerability. Warthogs, impalas, and even predators are being pushed into unfamiliar areas, searching for higher ground and safety, just like the people who live there.

And then there are the animals inside Kruger itself. The images are heartbreaking. Elephants standing in swirling water, trying to keep their footing. Smaller animals cling to patches of land that may not exist tomorrow. We know nature is resilient, and floods are part of natural cycles, but knowing that doesn’t make watching this any easier. The sheer scale of the flooding feels overwhelming, and the long-term impact on wildlife won’t be fully understood for months, perhaps years.

Not our photo. The Crocodile Bridge is totally underwater.

Being so far away adds another layer of helplessness. New Zealand feels impossibly calm by comparison. The rain here falls gently. Rivers rise and fall without drama. Life continues as normal, and yet our minds are thousands of miles away, fixed on a place that has come to mean so much to us. Marloth Park isn’t just somewhere we stayed—it’s a community that welcomed us, a place where we learned to live in closer harmony with nature, where the wild wasn’t something you visited, but something you coexisted with daily.

Here is an unbelievable article about crocodiles invading houses as their natural habitat is destroyed by flooding. 

We think about the staff in Kruger, many of whom live on or near the park, now dealing with both professional and personal loss. We think about the guides, rangers, camp workers, and families whose livelihoods depend on tourism. When the park closes, the ripple effects extend far beyond the gates.

This flooding is a stark reminder of how fragile even the most powerful landscapes can be. Kruger feels timeless when you’re there, ancient, unchanging, eternal. But moments like this strip away that illusion and remind us that nature is dynamic, unpredictable, and sometimes devastating.

For now, all we can do is watch, share updates, and hold Marloth Park and Kruger National Park close in our thoughts. We’re hoping for receding waters, for safety, for resilience, and for recovery, both for the people who call that area home and for the animals who have no choice but to weather the storm. The pelting rain continues.

Even from the other side of the world, our connection to that place remains strong. Distance doesn’t dull concern, and it certainly doesn’t erase love for a place that has left such a lasting imprint on our hearts.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 19, 2016:

Although far and few between, we stopped at a few scenic overlooks in the rain in New Zealand. For more photos, please click here.

Day 21…Meet up with cruise friend from 2017…Port Elizabeth, South Africa…

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Last evening, in the R-Bar, we enjoyed drinks with old friend Ulla and her friend Julia.

In April 2017, during one of those long, dreamy repositioning cruises, which was aboard Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas, sailing from Sydney all the way to Seattle, we met a lovely couple who instantly felt like old friends. Ulla and her husband, Ray, had that rare combination of openness and warmth that made conversation effortless from the start. Over the 24 nights we shared on that voyage, we often found ourselves lingering in lounges, lingering anywhere the ship’s gentle hum encouraged stories to spill out. Little did we know at the time that this serendipitous meeting would blossom into an eight-year friendship.

Since then, Facebook has been our bridge across continents and oceans. We’ve celebrated their travels, they’ve celebrated ours, and despite the miles, the connection never dimmed. So when we discovered they’d be joining us again on this current sailing, it felt like one of those full-circle travel blessings that only long-term nomads, like us, truly understand, life looping back with familiar faces in faraway ports.

But as travel often reminds us, plans can shift in a heartbeat. Just before departure, Ray fell ill with pneumonia in Australia and wasn’t able to travel. Our hearts sank for him. After eight years of looking forward to crossing paths again, the timing felt almost cruel. Still, in true traveler spirit, Ulla made the journey anyway, accompanied by her delightful friend Julia, boarding the ship in Cape Town and planning to stay aboard until Brisbane, Australia, on December 13. Seeing Ulla step onboard, smiling, resilient, and excited despite the circumstances, was a reminder of how friendships forged at sea have a kind of buoyancy all their own.

Last night, the four of us reunited as if no time had passed at all. There’s something about cruise ship evenings that brings out the best in these moments: the soft lighting, the gentle sway beneath our feet, the feeling that time is stretching just enough for connections to breathe. We shared stories, laughter, and updates, catching up on the years as though flipping through a well-loved scrapbook.

Ulla, on the right, and her travel companion, Julia.

Later, when they headed off to the nightly show, we gravitated to the Star Lounge for a singing game show that turned out to be hysterical. Neither of us has any desire to get up on stage—our comfort zone is firmly in the enthusiastic-but-anonymous audience category—but we laughed harder than we had in days. The energy was infectious, reminding us of all the quirky little joys that make cruise life so endearing.

When the game wrapped up, we wandered back to the R-Bar, where we ended up deep in conversation with George, an American man we’d briefly met before. He was genuinely stunned—almost wide-eyed—when he heard how long we’ve been traveling the world full-time. His fascination mirrored the reactions we often get: a mix of admiration, curiosity, and disbelief that anyone could live out of a suitcase for so many years and still love it.

As we chatted, I felt that familiar wave of gratitude wash over me. Nights like this—old friends rediscovered, new acquaintances made, laughter drifting through lounge floors—remind me why this nomadic life continues to fill us up after all these years. It’s not just the places or the ports. It’s the people who drift in and out like tides, each leaving a gentle imprint on our ever-changing journey.

Today, our ship is docked in Port Elizabeth, a place many cruisers look forward to exploring, but for us, it’s a quiet pause in the journey rather than a day of adventure. The options are straightforward enough: the shuttle ferries passengers to a nearby shopping mall or off to a safari experience. For many, spotting wildlife in South Africa is the highlight of a trip like this. And truly, we understand the appeal. It’s magical to see those first giraffes grazing on treetops or elephants ambling across the savanna.

But after almost 300 game drives and safaris over the past thirteen years, our hearts no longer chase the novelty of a single day out in the bush. Instead, we’ve come to relish the deeper rhythm of returning to Marloth Park, where we can slip back into our own private version of the wild. There, we settle into a routine we know well: the early mornings when the world is still hushed, the familiar rumble of distant lions, the comfort of waiting in our rental car, engine humming softly, as we slowly make our way through Kruger National Park.

The wildlife seen in this region, whether here in the Eastern Cape or up north near the Mozambique border, tells the same story. The same iconic species roam, the same dramas unfold under the African sun, and the same sense of wonder lingers in the air. The difference, for us, is the feeling of home that Marloth and Kruger have come to represent. We aren’t rushed on those visits, nor are we part of a tour group being guided along a predetermined route. Instead, we have the luxury of time, freedom, and the deeply personal experience of choosing our own path through the bush.

So today, while others line up eagerly for shuttles and excursions, we’re content to stay aboard the ship, enjoying the peaceful hum of life at sea. Some ports call to us with irresistible energy, urging us to explore. Port Elizabeth, however, whispers permission to rest. And in this season of our lives, after so many days on the road, so many game drives, so many breathtaking encounters, we’ve learned to honor those quieter impulses too.

We’ll save the safaris for June, when we return to Marloth Park and ease back into the wilderness we know and love. There’s no need to rush. Africa will be waiting.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 16, 2015:

In Savusavu, Fiji, this boat navigates to the pearl beds. For more photos, please click here.

Day 20…Part 2, Cape Town, South Africa…Dear friends came to visit…Mountains and beaches attracting tourists…

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Yesterday was such fun seeing Louise and Danie in Cape Town. We will see them again next June when we return to Marloth Park.

Certain landscapes in the world etch themselves into your memory the moment they appear, as if they’ve been waiting patiently for you to notice them. Cape Town is one of those rare places where the natural world rises in grand, sculptural form, dominating the skyline with a kind of effortless confidence. Nowhere is that more evident than in the trio of mountains that cradle the city, Table Mountain, Signal Hill, and Lion’s Head. Each has its own personality, its own rhythm, its own way of reminding you just how small you are in the most comforting, humbling sense.

The first decorated Christmas tree we’ve seen this year. Note the whisks used as decorations.

For us, arriving in Cape Town feels a bit like opening a familiar book whose pages we never tire of turning. The mountain range seems to watch over the city like an old friend. Table Mountain, with its broad, flat summit, is always the first to greet you. It rises with the commanding presence of a guardian, massive and unmovable, easily stealing the breath of anyone seeing it for the first or twentieth time. From a distance, it almost looks unreal, as if some giant placed a colossal stone table across the skyline, the edges crisp and unwavering against the African sky. Clouds often spill over the top in a delicate cascade known as the “tablecloth,” giving the mountain an almost playful quality. It’s as if it can’t resist reminding you that even giants have moods.

Lion’s Head mountain. We posted this photo yesterday when we intended to post it today.

When you stand beneath Table Mountain, whether wandering through the bustling Waterfront or strolling along Kloof Street with the scent of roasted coffee wafting from little cafés, it feels omnipresent. There’s a strange comfort in knowing it’s always there, watching, steadying the energy of the city with its ancient stillness.

View of Cape Town from the platform area of Table Mountain. There was a 3-hour wait for the cable car. We opted out.

And if you’re fortunate enough to ride the cable car to the top or brave the hike, you’re rewarded with sweeping views that seem to stretch out forever. The city spreads in intricate lines; the ocean glistens like polished glass; Robben Island sits quietly offshore. It’s impossible not to feel a profound sense of gratitude standing up there, the kind that sinks into your bones and lingers long after you’ve descended.

The top of Table Mountain.

Signal Hill, in contrast, feels softer, more approachable. It’s the kind of mountain that invites you in rather than daring you to scale it. Nestled between Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, it acts as the gentle slope where locals and travelers alike gather to watch the sun melt into the ocean.

More views from Table Mountain.

Signal Hill also carries its own rhythms. Each afternoon, the historic Noon Gun sends a resounding boom echoing across the city. I imagine one can feel it as much as hear it, a reminder of traditions that have survived centuries. Surely it is strangely endearing to the locals… this daily punctuation mark in the life of Cape Town, predictable yet always impressive.

The number of tourists and the traffic at Table Mountain made photo ops difficult.

Then, of course, there is Lion’s Head, the striking peak that stands proudly between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. If Table Mountain is the wise elder and Signal Hill the gentle companion, then Lion’s Head is the spirited adventurer, the mountain with a restless heart. Its shape is unmistakable, the curve of the slope flowing like the back of a reclining lion. Hikers adore it, and rightfully so.

Robben Island, located approximately 7 kilometers off the coast of Bloubergstrand, north of Cape Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former prison where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were incarcerated. Today, it operates as a museum that offers powerful insights into South Africa’s history and struggle for freedom.

The trail winds around the mountain in a steady ascent, each turn revealing views that seem more dazzling than the last. They say, climbing it is like walking in circles around a secret, each loop bringing you closer to understanding what makes this mountain so magnetic.

Fantastic views.

What connects these three mountains isn’t just their geography; it’s the emotional current that runs through them. They are part of the soul of Cape Town, steady, vibrant, and full of quiet surprises. For travelers like us, who are always drifting from one place to another, they are anchors. They remind us why we wander the world, finding joy and solace in nature as well as wildlife.

Camps Bay in Cape Town is a popular, upscale beachfront suburb known for its wide, white-sand beach and vibrant promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and hotels. It’s situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Twelve Apostles mountain range and offers a lively atmosphere with blue flag status for its cleanliness and safety. While it’s an attractive destination year-round, it becomes hectic during the summer months.

In Cape Town, the mountains don’t just shape the skyline. They shape the way a tourist feels. And each time we leave such a place, we carry a piece of it with us.

Another view of the fabulous Camp’s Bay Beach.
There is hang gliding in Cape Town, with Signal Hill and Table Mountain being popular sites. The Cape Albatross Hang-gliding Club, along with other operators and schools, offers opportunities for both experienced pilots and those wishing to learn. Paragliding is also very common in the city, with many tour operators available for tandem flights.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Cape Town, although short, sufficient to give us a feel for the magical city and its many offerings for tourists and locals alike. Perhaps, someday, we’ll return.

Our ship is the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas. The ship spent an extra night in Cape Town because the port was closed due to high winds. This morning, it set sail.

Today, we’re out to sea, heading to Port Elizabeth, South Africa, which is mainly a stopping-off point for safaris. Since we’ve spent so many years partaking in game drives in this country and others, we may choose to spend a quiet day on the ship.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 15, 2015:

The view from atop the hills in our area in Savusavu, Fiji. For more photos, please click here.

Hidden gems in South Africa…

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Top Hidden Gems Across South Africa

1. Waterfall Bluff – Eastern Cape

A breathtaking coastal waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean—one of the few of its kind in the world. The dramatic hike to reach it traverses the stunning Wild Coast.

2. Eye of Kuruman – Northern Cape

This massive crystal-clear spring stands as the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, creating an oasis amidst the surrounding semi-desert.

3. Riemvasmaak Hot Springs – Northern Cape

Tucked between granite cliffs, these hot springs provide a peaceful and warm retreat amid striking desert landscapes.

4. Nieu-Bethesda & the Owl House – Karoo

A quirky Karoo village best known for the Owl House—a surreal museum filled with eccentric sculptures and art by Helen Martins—plus cozy coffeehouses and scenic Sneeuberg hikes.

5. Magoebaskloof – Limpopo

A lush valley of forests, waterfalls, and winding trails. Ideal for canopy tours, fly-fishing, hiking, and birdwatching—with beautiful highlights like Debengeni Falls and the village of Haenertsburg.

6. Hogsback – Eastern Cape

An enchanting, Tolkien-inspired village nestled in eucalyptus and redwood forests. Stay in magical Hobbit-like cottages near waterfalls, explore mosaic gardens, and hike scenic trails like the 39 Steps Falls.

7. Stadsaal Caves (Cederberg) – Western Cape

Ancient sandstone caves in the Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve feature San rock art, some of which dates back as far as 8,000 years.

8. Bridal Veil Falls – Sabie, Mpumalanga

A 70 m waterfall resembling a veil, reachable via a short forest footpath. Part of the Panorama Route with options for longer hikes like the Loerie Trail.

9. Boosmansbos Wilderness Area – Western Cape

This 142 km² wilderness offers dramatic gorges, mountain fynbos, and rare forests. Ideal for multi-day hikes and immersing in unique biodiversity.

10. Madikwe Game Reserve – North West Province

A malaria-free reserve where you can still spot the Big Five and endangered African Wild Dogs, but with fewer crowds than Kruger.

11. Augrabies Falls National Park – Northern Cape

Often described as South Africa’s “mini Grand Canyon,” the Orange River cascades through dramatic rock formations—especially powerful after summer rains.

12. Chrissiesmeer (Lake District) – Mpumalanga

A tranquil region with over 270 lakes, ideal for birdwatching—see flamingos, pelicans, and enjoy folklore-rich history.

13. eMakhosini Ophathe Heritage Park – KwaZulu-Natal

A culturally significant reserve celebrating Zulu heritage, where you can also encounter black rhinos, giraffes, and buffalo in a historic landscape.

14. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve & Florilegium – Western Cape

A biodiverse UNESCO-acknowledged fynbos reserve offering botany safaris and the unique Hannarie Wenhold Botanical Art Gallery featuring botanical illustrations and pollinator portraits.

Locals Share Their Own Hidden Finds

  • Cederberg Wilderness, Paternoster, Montagu’s hot springs, Barrydale: beloved by locals for their natural beauty and charm.

    “Paternoster: a charming little fishing village that feels like stepping back in time.”
    “Cederberg Wilderness Area, for those who love the outdoors, the ancient rock formations and San rock art are a must-see.”

  • Mountain Sanctuary (Magaliesburg): a hike through crystal-clear rock pools—now requires a guide, but still a hidden gem.

  • Scenic Trails & Natural Valleys:

    “Mariepskop mountain… mistbelt forest… multiple viewpoints… almost no one goes there.”
    “Parys… has its own little Eiffel tower… it’s hidden.”
    Great suggestions from fellow adventurers in the know.

Explore with Intention

  • Nature lovers: Try Hogsback, Waterfall Bluff, Magoebaskloof, Stadsaal Caves, or Bridal Veil Falls.

  • Quiet luxury getaways: Nieu-Bethesda’s quirky art scene or remote solitude at Riemvasmaak Hot Springs.

  • Wildlife & Conservation: Madikwe, eMakhosini Park, or Grootbos for unique biodiversity and cultural context.

  • Unique landscapes: Boosmansbos, Chrissiesmeer, and Augrabies Falls offer dramatic visuals and serenity.

We’ve only visited a few of the above. Once we arrive in Marloth Park, we don’t want to leave, as every day is treasured, allowing us to engage in precisely what we choose to do while living in this exquisite bush.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 9, 2015

Tom was standing in front of the tiniest airport we’ve seen to date in Fiji, except for the dirt landing strip with no airport in the Maasai Mara. We flew in a small plane to the village of Savusavu. For more photos, please click here.

What??? A pay-what-you-can luxury safari lodge in South Africa?…

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Elephants are frequently sighted on safaris.

When we encountered this article about this pay-what-you-can safari lodge in South Africa, we couldn’t resist sharing it here today. With their photos, we share this exciting news with those who would love to visit a safari lodge but find the cost prohibitive. For many, the airfare alone makes a safari trip unaffordable; however, with the potential for reduced costs associated with staying in a safari lodge that includes daily game drives, the overall cost is significantly less.

From today’s issue of Travel & Leisure online magazine here:

“This Luxury Safari Lodge in South Africa Just Launched a Pay-What-You-Can Program

Few & Far Luvhondo is making transformational travel more accessible—without sacrificing sustainability or style. By Katie Nadworny, Published on August 29, 2025

Three elevated lodge buildings surrounded by trees with a hilly landscape in the background
Exterior view of the Cliff Suites at Few & Far Luvhondo in South Africa. Credit: Jemma Wild/Few & Far Luvhondo

Travelers dreaming of a luxury South African safari but think it’s outside their price range may be in luck thanks to a new pay-what-you-can initiative aimed at helping visitors engage with their surroundings.

It’s all thanks to Few & Far Luvhondo, a carbon-negative safari retreat in South Africa’s Limpopo province, which launched the reservation system as a way “to challenge the old ways.” The limited program opens the lodge “to anyone who needs it, regardless of budget.”

To participate, travelers must complete an application that covers their dates, the number of guests, their reasons for being drawn to the property, and their financial capacity. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

“Travel isn’t a frivolous indulgence—it’s a vital act of connection,” Sarah Dusek, a co-founder of Few & Far Luvhondo, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure. “It nurtures our well-being, strengthens global empathy, and fuels the preservation of our planet. We launched this initiative with the belief that when you truly experience a place, you begin to care—and when you care, you naturally want to give back.

“By removing cost as a barrier, we’re making transformative, purpose-led travel more accessible without diluting its impact,” Dusek added. “Today, true luxury isn’t just comfort or exclusivity—it’s a conscious choice. It’s choosing responsibility, choosing connection, and choosing to leave the world better than you found it.”

Safari vehicle and people near a river in a rocky hilly landscape in South Africa
Guests on a Game Drive in the Soutpansberg Mountains of Limpopo.Jemma Wild/Few & Far Luvhondo

The luxury property, which was opened by the founders of the popular glamping brand Under Canvas, features six tented cliff suites in South Africa’s Soutpansberg Mountains, surrounded by UNESCO’s Vhembe Biosphere Reserve. Guests are treated to over-the-top amenities, including private plunge pools and expansive decks for spotting wildlife, along with sustainably minded design features that highlight locally sourced eucalyptus wood.

Bespoke activities beckon from guided nature walks and scenic e-bike rides to excursions to Mapungubwe National Park, where you can spot elephants, leopards, wildebeest, lions, and more. In October, the lodge plans to open a solar-powered cable car, offering a unique way to take in the landscape and wildlife that call the area home.

Few & Far Luvhondo also offers the opportunity to become a conservationist for a day, including participating in a veterinary visit or helping the carbon sequestration team plan for the establishment of shrubs, trees, and grasses.

The luxury experience is extended to dinners where you can feast on five-course tasting menus in the lodge restaurant or enjoy a torch-lit meal under the stars out in the bush.”

Should any of our readers have an opportunity to visit this luxury safari lodge, please write to us about your experience.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 30, 2015:

This cockroach was in the living room with us in Trinity Beach, Australia.. We scooped it up with the dustpan and put it outside on the grass. Immediately, it ran back toward the open door to the house. Picking it up a second time, Tom took it out to the rainforest in the backyard. We’d expected to see more insects in the house in Australia, and although we’ve seen quite a few, there haven’t been nearly as many as there were in Kenya and South Africa. As we were warned, flies are rampantly preventing us from keeping the doors open. There are no screens in the house, except for two small windows: one in the living room and another in the bedroom. For more photos, please click here.

Tourism in South Africa in 2025…Sunset over the Crocodile River…

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Sunset from Ngwenya on Thursday night.

With the ongoing negative perceptions of visiting South Africa, there are many positive aspects to consider when you may hesitate to make it your next holiday destination.

Tourism in South Africa in 2025 has surged with renewed energy, following a challenging few years marked by global instability, health concerns, and shifting travel trends. This year, South Africa stands proudly as one of Africa’s premier destinations—an irresistible blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and adventure. From the cosmopolitan pulse of Cape Town to the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park, the country is reclaiming its status on the world travel map. But what makes South Africa in 2025 so enticing to travelers?

A Post-Pandemic Rebound with Purpose

It’s easy to be amazed by the sunset at this fantastic location.

Following the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2025 has seen a surge in international travel driven by a growing desire for meaningful experiences. South Africa, with its rich tapestry of landscapes, people, and wildlife, is delivering just that. Visitor numbers are rebounding strongly, with travelers from Europe, the United States, and Asia returning in high numbers.

Importantly, there’s a noticeable shift toward sustainable tourism. Visitors are increasingly aware of their environmental and social impact, and South Africa has responded to this trend. Community-led lodges, ethical wildlife encounters, and conservation tourism are now at the forefront, offering more profound and more responsible experiences.

Cape Town and the Garden Route: Coastal Crown Jewels

Cape Town continues to dazzle with its iconic Table Mountain, golden beaches, and vibrant neighborhoods, such as Bo-Kaap and Woodstock. In 2025, the city has sharpened its focus on eco-tourism and urban greening. New walking and cycling routes, solar-powered guesthouses, and community art spaces are breathing fresh life into the urban experience. The V&A Waterfront, always a favorite, now doubles as a cultural hub with live music, food markets, and indigenous storytelling sessions.

Just beyond the city, the Garden Route, a coastal stretch from Mossel Bay to Storms River, is flourishing. Travelers are rediscovering its forests, lagoons, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. With well-maintained roads, upgraded accommodations, and immersive tours focused on nature, wellness, and food, the Garden Route is one of 2025’s most popular drives.

Wildlife Wonders and Bush Escapes

South Africa’s safari experience remains unmatched, and in 2025, it’s more accessible and varied than ever. Kruger National Park, still the crown jewel of safari destinations, has expanded its range of guided, self-drive, and luxury camping options. However, lesser-known parks, such as Addo Elephant National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve, and the Waterberg Biosphere, are gaining popularity. They offer quieter, less commercial alternatives for seeing the Big Five and engaging with conservation programs.

Wildlife photography tours, volunteer safaris, and citizen science projects are on the rise, allowing visitors to participate in data collection and animal monitoring. Tourists are increasingly drawn to purpose-driven travel, where their time and money support biodiversity and anti-poaching initiatives.

As clouds obstruct the view, it remains stunning.

Cultural Tourism: Beyond the Stereotypes

While South Africa’s natural beauty often headlines tourism brochures, its cultural experiences are just as captivating. In 2025, there’s a growing demand for authentic, local engagement. Travelers are visiting townships for curated cultural walks, traditional meals, and live performances. Initiatives in Soweto, Langa, and Khayelitsha connect visitors with storytellers, artists, and entrepreneurs who share their lived experiences of history, struggle, and progress.

Robben Island remains a must-see, but new museums and cultural centers across the country are telling South Africa’s story from multiple perspectives. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town and the KwaZulu-Natal Museum in Pietermaritzburg are helping to rewrite narratives and attract visitors seeking depth, not just sights.

Wine, Cuisine, and Culinary Tourism

Food and wine tourism is thriving in 2025, and South Africa’s Western Cape is at the heart of it. The Cape Winelands, comprising Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, continue to offer world-class wines in spectacular settings, with an added emphasis on organic practices and indigenous grape varieties. Many estates now blend tastings with storytelling, pairing wine with South African history and identity.

Cape Malay cuisine, braais, bunny chow, and modern Afro-fusion dishes are drawing culinary explorers to restaurants and street food markets alike. Durban’s Indian-influenced flavors and Johannesburg’s fine dining scene are both on the rise. Food tours, cooking classes, and foraging experiences are adding a rich, sensory layer to the travel experience.

Safety, Connectivity, and Infrastructure

Tourism in 2025 is expected to benefit from improved infrastructure and enhanced connectivity. Upgrades to airports, roads, and mobile networks make travel smoother. Ride-share services and digital booking platforms are widely used, and even in remote areas, Wi-Fi is more accessible than ever. Load-shedding, the rolling blackouts that once marred daily life, has been significantly reduced through expanded solar energy initiatives, especially in tourism hotspots.

Safety remains a concern in some areas, but partnerships between the government and the private sector have improved policing and tourist protection. Travelers are encouraged to use registered guides, stay informed, and explore within well-supported tourism corridors.

As it began to disappear…

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its successes, South Africa’s tourism sector in 2025 still faces challenges. Climate change is impacting rainfall patterns and wildlife, while economic inequality remains a persistent undercurrent. However, tourism is increasingly being used as a tool for social change—creating jobs, supporting women and youth-led enterprises, and funding education and conservation.

The Spirit of South Africa

What makes tourism in South Africa in 2025 so special isn’t just what you see—it’s how the country makes you feel. It’s the deep roar of a lion at dusk, the warmth of a stranger greeting you with “howzit,” the rhythm of a gumboot dance, and the way a sunset over the Drakensberg turns the entire sky gold. It’s a nation that has survived and evolved, always moving forward, always inviting the world to walk beside it for a little while.

For those who crave connection, authenticity, and awe, South Africa in 2025 is not just a destination, it’s an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends. After spending nearly five of our 13 years of world travel in South Africa, we remain captivated by its wonders.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 26, 2015:

This was one of my favorite plants at the Cairns Botanic Garden in Australia. For more photos, please click here.

Part 4…Outstanding day in Kruger National Park…A bloat of hippos and babies…Unusual facts about hippos…

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Hippos and crocodiles seem to get along well. Notice the croc near the adult hippo.

Unusual Facts About Hippos: Nature’s Unexpected Oddballs

With barrel-shaped bodies and seemingly sluggish demeanor, hippopotamuses might appear like oversized river cows, lazily basking in the water. But don’t let their sleepy expressions fool you. These massive mammals are full of surprises—some amusing, others downright bizarre. From their physiology to their social lives, hippos are anything but ordinary. Here are some of the most unusual facts about hippos that might change the way you see them.

Mom and two babies were lounging on Sunset Dam’s shore.

1. They Produce Their Natural Sunscreen

One of the strangest things about hippos is their ability to secrete a reddish, oily substance often called “blood sweat.” Despite the name, it’s neither blood nor sweat. This secretion acts as sunscreen and an antibiotic, protecting their sensitive skin from the harsh African sun and infections. The reddish hue may also help camouflage them in muddy water, though the science on that is still speculative.

One adult hippo appears to maintain “watch” while the others rest.

2. They Can’t Swim

Yes, they spend most of their lives in the water, but here’s the catch: hippos can’t swim in the traditional sense. Instead of paddling like other aquatic animals, they move by bouncing off the riverbed. They sink because of their dense bodies and move gracefully underwater by pushing themselves off the bottom in a sort of moonwalk motion. It’s like underwater parkour (Parkour (French: [paʁkuʁ]) is an athletic training discipline or sport in which practitioners attempt to get from one point to another in the fastest and most efficient way possible, without assisting equipment), hippo-style.

3. Hippos Are Surprisingly Fast—And Dangerous

Despite their enormous size (up to 3,500 pounds for males), hippos can run at speeds of up to 30 km/h (about 19 mph) on land for short distances. That’s faster than most humans can sprint. And in the water, they can outmaneuver boats. Combine that speed with aggression, and you get one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. Hippos are responsible for more human deaths in Africa annually than lions, elephants, or crocodiles.

Often, various birds hang around with hippos.

4. They Mark Territory With a Unique “Tail-Spin” Technique

Hippos are quite literal when it comes to marking their territory. They defecate while spinning their tails rapidly, spraying feces in a wide radius to mark boundaries or communicate with others. It’s messy and bizarre, but it’s also a very effective signaling method in the dense vegetation of riverbanks.

5. They Communicate Above and Below Water—At the Same Time

Hippos are incredibly vocal and communicate using grunts, bellows, and wheezes. But what’s mind-blowing is that they can make sounds that travel simultaneously through air and water. This means one hippo can “talk” to another, both above and below the water’s surface simultaneously, an incredibly rare ability in the animal kingdom.

It’s a rare treat to see hippos out of the water.

6. They’re More Closely Related to Whales Than You Might Think

Though they look like pigs or cows, hippos are actually the closest living relatives to whales and dolphins. They share a common ancestor from about 55 million years ago. This evolutionary link is supported by similarities in skull structure, social behavior, and even the composition of the blood sweat mentioned earlier.

One mom was taking a break from the bloat.

7. They Nurse Underwater

Baby hippos are born underwater and can nurse while submerged. Calves instinctively close their ears and nostrils and latch onto their mothers while floating or resting on the river bottom. It’s an adaptation that allows them to stay safe and hidden in their aquatic environment while still getting the nutrition they need.

They are sniffing for possible food finds.

From underwater moonwalking to crimson sunblock and high-speed chases, hippos are an amazing mix of mystery, muscle, and mischief. Often underestimated and misunderstood, they’re one of nature’s most unusual creatures—living proof that you can’t judge a book (or a hippo) by its cover.

Let the hippo remind us that even the slowest-looking animals might be hiding some seriously wild secrets just beneath the surface.

Two moms and babies

Most often, when on game drives (safaris), we only see hippos in the water. Having the opportunity to spend time watching them on land is entertaining and enriching, and we are grateful for the experience.

It seems the bloat has increased in size.

Seeing these hippos reminded us both of the first time we saw hippos in the wild when we first arrived in the Maasai Mara, in Kenya, in October 2013. We couldn’t resist sharing these hippo photos we took in the first hour we were in the Mara. See below:

Anderson, our safari guide, took us on an unplanned 90-minute safari rather than wait at the airstrip for another couple to arrive on a later flight. This was one of the first photos we took along the Mara River. Our tent is on the river’s banks where the hippos will awaken us with their hysterical morning calls. We couldn’t believe our eyes or our ears. See the post here.
We could sit for hours and watch the hippos’ antics. Their lethargic movements and playful personalities are a pleasure to behold. See the post here.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 19, 2015:

On our final days in Kauai, we spotted almost neon-colored flowers on a walk. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…The best new luxury resorts around the world…

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A lovely view from Ngwenya.

So sorry we didn’t post yesterday. We all have days when we aren’t feeling up to snuff. Over the past few days, I haven’t felt like myself, and I am taking it a little easy. My blood pressure spiked to a dangerous level while my pulse was normal, and I didn’t experience any Afib or other heart-related symptoms.

Typically, I can feel my blood pressure spike for no reason at all. Subsequently, we went to Doc Theo yesterday. After a slight medication adjustment, it is better, but it took the wind out of my sails, and I am still not 100%. Again, today, I’ll take it easy, and hopefully, tonight, I’ll feel well enough to go to Quiz Night at Giraffe, which begins at 6:30 pm.

After the visit with Doc Theo, we headed to Spar Market, where we purchased everything we needed for the next few weeks in less than 20 minutes. Once back in Maroth Park, we stopped at The Butchery to pick up our pre-ordered biltong, which was out of stock last Friday due to the huge number of holidaymakers in the park in April.

The holidays are over, and the tourists have left. Fortunately, we’re enjoying an endless stream of wildlife this morning as we lounge on the veranda. It’s delightful to see our wildlife friends returning to the garden.

There are just the two of us tonight, but dear friend Patty Pan arranged a spot in a group for us. We won’t eat dinner at Giraffe tonight since they don’t have much on the menu that either of us cares to eat. We’ll eat at home early since we have plenty of delicious leftovers in the freezer to enjoy with nothing to do but heat them in the microwave.

As a result, since I’m not feeling creative today, we are sharing a fantastic article from Travel and Leisure, found here on their site:

“The Best New Resorts Around the World—Including a Luxe Mexico All-inclusive and an Italian Countryside Escape…

Travel + Leisure’s 2025 It List.

By Travel + Leisure Editors
Published on April 16, 2025

Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-inclusive, Mexico

Repurposed from a previous life as a mid-range all-inclusive into a Marriott Luxury Collection resort, the adults-only Almare offers a much-needed shot in the arm to sleepy Isla Mujeres, across a peaceful bay from the buzz of Cancun. Here, the vibes are more “summer camp” than seclusion—I joined my fellow guests at morning yoga, mezcal tastings, and even a jog to Punta Sur, the island’s southernmost point. The 109 rooms are spacious and bright; some travelers might find the Mexico-meets-modern vibes a bit too sparse. However, I appreciated the Byredo toiletries, spacious soaking tubs, and sunset-facing balconies. The food was also a hit: all-day restaurant Boga focuses on local fare from the Yucatan, and The Breeze, a lunchtime pool bar, has tacos, ceviche, and an excellent burger. If you like the convenience of an all-inclusive (unlimited drinks!), the charm of a boutique hotel (staff who know your coffee order!), and the reliability of a mega-brand (loyalty points!), Almare has a winning formula. Doubles from $1,025, all-inclusive. —Laura Ratliff

Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, Indonesia

When I arrived at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, it was pouring, but rain suits the place. The 85-room resort sits in a valley inside the Payangan rainforest, about a 30-minute drive north of Ubud. The primary building, a glassy hilltop structure, houses Kirana, an all-day Indonesian restaurant, and Amerta, which serves fire-roasted entrées. The resort also has a spa, two pools, a lounge, and a bar that serves cocktails made with arrack, a local cousin of rum. Looking out from my villa’s infinity pool after the rain had cleared, I saw nothing but slopes covered with bamboo, banana plants, and palms. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $600. —Hannah Walhout 

Arev St. Tropez, France

“Un rêve” means “a dream” in French. And indeed, a stay at the 50-room Arev—St. Tropez’s newest hideout, set on a leafy, quiet street, but only a 10-minute stroll from the bustle of Place des Lices, feels like a reverie you won’t want to wake from. Spanish designer Luis Bustamante took inspiration from the nearby Old Port, using a nautical, sophisticated, red, white, and blue palette throughout the property. I enjoyed a tasting in the outdoor Champagne Lounge (my bubbles were served from a chic vintage trolley cart). I spent my days lounging by the pool or strolling the courtyards and gardens filled with magnolias, bougainvillea, and olive trees. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $643. —Robin Allison Davis

Atzaró Okavango, Botswana

Atzaró Okavango’s inception began as an unlikely collaboration between Beks Ndlovu, the Zimbabwe-born founder of African Bush Camps, and Philip Gonda and Victor Guasch, the co-owners of the very stylish, design-forward hospitality group Atzaró. The hotel’s lobby bar and connected lounge spaces are filled with an impressive African art collection, from masks to textiles like mud cloth sourced from Benin, the Congo, Ethiopia, and the Tuareg people. The luxurious tents, ranging from 1,740 to 4,130 square feet, have bathtubs and mid-century and antique African furniture. But it’s the safaris themselves, led by some of the region’s best guides (Ndlovu started his career as a guide, so he has managed to attract and train the best) that are the reason to choose Atzaró. The animal sightings are frequent and thrilling, and the resort has fantastic post-safari cocktails; the camp’s resident mixologist might even mix you a sundowner in the bush. Doubles from $690 per person, all-inclusive. —Gisela Williams

Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

From the plunge pool outside my villa at Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, I could almost reach out and touch the grapevines. Channeling a sense of place in Mexico’s preeminent wine region was a goal for architect Michel Rojkind, who made the valley’s natural beauty the star of this resort. It’s 30 sand-colored villas blend into the hillside and have from one to three bedrooms; each has a fireplace and a wine bar, plus a shower that opens onto an outdoor deck. As serene as my quarters were, the common spaces are where the 16-acre property really shines. I loved stopping for a burrito or a sip of mezcal at Roka, a repurposed Airstream trailer; elsewhere, I found a yoga platform, a spa, a meditation labyrinth, and a temescal. A visit to Pictograma, the resort’s winery, which grows grenache grapes, is essential to any stay. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $599.​ —Nina Ruggiero

Borgo dei Conti Resort, Umbria, Italy

Once upon a time, in the Umbrian countryside, there was an enchanted 19th-century villa, built on the foundations of a 13th-century fortress. It was inhabited by Count Lemmo Rossi Scotti, who spent his days painting and tending to the garden. Fast-forward more than a hundred years, and now that enchanted villa is a luxury resort run by The Hospitality Experience, the hoteliers behind other Italian properties like The Place Firenze and Londra Palace in Venice. Naturally, the villa’s new owners worked to preserve its historic integrity, restoring the frescoes and wood-beamed ceilings, while still bringing it into the 21st century. Maybe it was all the lore surrounding the place, but I did feel a bit like a modern-day countess, whether I was savoring risotto with goat cheese and Mediterranean herbs or cozying up on the sofa in my spacious suite. Perugia, Umbria’s Medieval capital, is just a 30-minute drive away, but don’t be surprised if you feel an almost supernatural pull urging you to stay put and explore the 40-acre grounds instead, perhaps with a picnic in the woods. Surely, Count Rossi Scotti would have wanted it that way. Doubles from $600. —Laura Itkowitz

Clara Arte Resort, Inhotim, Brazil

After more than a decade of anticipation, art buffs can now stay in a hotel at the Inhotim Institute, one of the world’s largest open-air museums, about an hour and a half from the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Clara Arte opened in December 2024 at the edge of the museum’s botanical garden, which features 4,000 tropical plant species and 700 artworks across 24 stand-alone galleries, all designed by distinct architects. Clara Arte’s 46 stilted villas spill down a lush hill by the entrance; São Paulo-based designer Marina Linhares filled each one with stone and wood furnishings that gesture to the landscape. All stays include three meals, a lavish afternoon “tea” with surprisingly sharp Brazilian brut, and the addictive cheese bread pão de queijo. As the sun sets, you listen to the chirps and croaks of the Atlantic Forest, or relax with a caipirinha at the piano bar, which hosts nightly bossa nova music. Of course, you come here mainly to browse contemporary art at the Inhotim Institute, a five-minute walk away. It takes repeated visits to fully immerse yourself in the towering installations, which include big names like Matthew Barney and Yayoi Kusama. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $410, all-inclusive. —Mark Johanson

Dunas de Formentera, Spain

I had ditched my shoes to walk the undulating dunes within an hour of arriving at Dunas de Formentera, a 45-room retreat on the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Formentera, a craggy 12-mile spit of land, is a low-key refuge from the party scene in Ibiza, just a 30-minute ferry ride away. The hotel comprises nine whitewashed bungalows, a few steps from the beach with its soft sand and clear water. Its restaurant, Caliu, specializes in wood-fired dishes, like the artichokes with cured egg yolk and ham that became a favorite during my stay. Dunas puts the eco in eco-resort: Hourglasses in the shower keep track of the time, and even the bedside phones are made of wood. I spent my days parked by the saltwater infinity pool, where the cooling breezes were more than welcome in the parched Spanish summer. Doubles from $550. —Julia Chaplin

Gundari, Folegandros, Greece

Folegandros, an unspoiled island about eight miles long, is only a 50-minute ferry ride from busy Santorini, but it feels like another world. High on a deserted clifftop overlooking the Sea of Crete, Gundari would feel radical anywhere. But in this location, the hypermodern hotel feels almost revolutionary. After opening, the property’s 30 cliffside suites and villas quickly became Instagram-famous. But Gundari’s ambitions go far beyond the visual. The main restaurant, Orizon, is run by Lefteris Lazarou, who earned the Athens restaurant Varoulko a Michelin star. Lazarou’s moussaka, made with shrimp instead of the traditional lamb, was light and aromatic; a risotto of brown orzo with Greek cheese, chili pepper, and wine from the nearby island of Lemnos was somehow both wholesome and indulgent. There’s also a striking subterranean spa where an Australian therapist gave me a world-class massage using oils infused with Greek botanicals. Doubles from $654.​ —Flora Stubbs

Hôtel du Couvent, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nice, France

Hidden away in Nice’s Old Town, Hôtel du Couvent is the chic property this coastal city craved. The 17th-century convent—home to the Poor Clare and Salesian orders until the 1980s—got a $100-million renovation and is now a hotel with 88 guest rooms. Mine had Italian flea-market finds and custom furniture made from old ceiling beams. A terraced garden contains more than 300 plant species, many of which supply the three on-site restaurants. Underground is a contemporary interpretation of the Roman baths excavated in nearby Cimiez, with a warm tepidarium, a hot caldarium, and a frigidarium, or cold plunge. The latter was particularly restorative, as was the Negroni No. 2 at Le Bar, in the cloister, which adds beets and strawberries to the classic recipe. It was a subtle reinvention that, like the hotel itself, improved upon the original without losing its soul. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $545.​ —Paul Jebara

Jannah Lamu, Kenya

For decades, on Lamu, a tiny island off the coast of Kenya that has long been fashionable with a certain free-spirited European crowd, the Peponi has been the stylish hotel of choice. Now, thanks to the opening of Jannah Lamu (the word jannah means “paradise” in Arabic), there’s another extraordinary place to stay. This elegant and quirky B&B—with seven accommodations—in the village of Shela is owned and designed by Kenyan designer Anna Trzebinski. Some rooms have stained-glass windows, others have bespoke wood-carved furniture, and all have Trzebinski-designed fabrics. While there isn’t a restaurant on site, there is a decadent breakfast, including sliced avocados, fresh fruit, samosas, and fried donut-like treats called kaimati. The property also recommends several cafes that deliver delicious Swahili dishes so guests can dine on one of the property’s wind-swept terraces. While located on Shela’s main square rather than on the beach, the property offers guests the option to spend time on one of three beautifully crafted traditional boats. There’s nothing like sailing one of the elegant wooden dhows (with a canopied deck covered in pillows) through mangrove-lined channels, then diving into the water, before a picnic of grilled lobster and fish curry back on deck. Doubles from $350. —Gisela Williams

Kibale Lodge, Uganda

Kibale Forest in western Uganda, is known as the best place in the world to see chimpanzees, and there is no better base to explore this underrated part of Africa than Kibale Lodge, a short drive away. The lodge is Volcanoes Safaris’ fifth on their great ape safari circuits through Uganda and Rwanda. Perched high on a ridge, the estate boasts spectacular 360-degree views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and greenery of rural Uganda. It is an intimate affair, with just eight papyrus-thatched bandas, each solar-powered and handbuilt by talented local craftspeople. At the heart of the lodge, a welcoming common area encourages guests to gather for drinks and food, including Ugandan specialities and more familiar dishes using local or homegrown ingredients. I swapped safari stories with my fellow visitors over freshly caught tilapia, firinda (bean stew), and dodo (steamed greens), while treks were fueled by freshly squeezed passionfruit juice and on-the-go “rolex” (rolled omelettes). The main draw to Kibale Lodge is, of course, the chimpanzees, but it’s well worth taking the time to enjoy the 150 acres of rewilded grounds here, along with the pool, sauna, and complimentary massages to ease post-trek aches. It’s the perfect sanctuary to retreat after searching for primates in the thick Ugandan jungle. Doubles from $990, all-inclusive. —Gisela Williams

La Roqqa, Porto Ercole, Italy

Giorgio Bonotto, La Roqqa’s simpatico general manager, supplied the words I’d been searching for. I’d arranged to meet him for aperitivi on the hotel’s roof terrace, with views over Tuscan rooftops and a harbor full of bobbing boats. The 16th-century fort that crowns the hill across the bay was soaking up the last rays of the setting sun as he said, “I like to describe La Roqqa as an urban resort in the middle of a fishing village.” I wish I’d thought of that. The contrast between the chic interior design and the refreshing authenticity of Porto Ercole, the laid-back coastal town outside its doors, makes the 55-room La Roqqa such an original arrival on the Tuscan scene. Walk 10 minutes to the port and you’re in a film about small-town Italy, where grandparents and kids stroll along the quay, gelato in hand. Walk, or be driven in one of La Roqqa’s electric cars, 10 minutes in the other direction, and you’re in a dolce vita romance set in a wild, rocky bay where beautiful, tanned people loll on loungers at the resort’s beach club. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $515. —Lee Marshall”

We’ll present Part 2 tomorrow and complete this article. If you’d like to see photos of these resorts, please click Travel and Leisure’s link here.

Although the above resorts are expensive, a traveler might consider a luxury experience during a short stay on their way to other nearby locations. Occasionally, we have opted for a luxury resort, leaving us with exquisite memories of a few-night stay.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 6, 2015:

A fisherman was casting toward the huge surf in Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

Day 5…Kruger National Park…We’re back from another game drive…

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Last week, we spotted a lion with a Cape buffalo kill on the guided game drive.

Here are some facts about Kruger National Park we’d yet to share:

Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic and expansive wildlife reserves. Located in northeastern South Africa, it spans the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga and covers nearly 20,000 square kilometers (7,700 square miles)—roughly the size of Israel or New Jersey. It’s a major bucket-list destination for nature lovers, safari-goers, photographers, and anyone seeking a wild, immersive experience in the African bush.

With the dense bush, taking photos was tricky.

Highlights of Kruger National Park:

1. The Big Five:
Kruger is one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—in their natural habitat. Spotting all five in one trip is common if you’re lucky and spend a few days exploring. There are no rhinos in the areas we visit on our safaris. At some point, we’ll drive further north to spot rhinos in a protected area to avoid poachers.

A “parade” of elephants crosses the paved road.

2. Biodiversity:
The park is home to an astonishing diversity of life:

  • 500+ bird species

  • 140+ mammal species

  • 100+ reptile species

  • Countless plant and tree varieties

3. Self-Drive Safaris:
Unlike many other parks in Africa, Kruger is self-drive-friendly. You can rent a car, grab a map, and set out on your game drive. It’s safe, relatively easy, and gives you total freedom over your safari adventure. We make a point of embarking on a self-drive in Kruger once a week. We prefer self-drive to guided safaris since we can tour at our own pace. We often arrange a guided safari for the extra experience when guests visit.

It’s always exciting to see elephants cross a road.

4. Accommodations for All Budgets:
From luxury lodges like Singita and Royal Malewane to SANParks rest camps (like Skukuza, Satara, and Lower Sabie), there’s something for every budget and travel style. Many rest camps even have shops, restaurants, and guided game drives. Since we have such a lovely holiday home in Marloth Park, we don’t see a reason to pay for the rest of the accommodations in Kruger.

The females always protect the calves.

5. Night and Guided Walk Safaris:
Beyond daytime game drives, Kruger also offers night safaris and guided bush walks—incredible ways to see nocturnal wildlife and learn about smaller animals, insects, and plants you’d probably miss otherwise. We are going on a Thermal Night Drive in Marloth Park tomorrow night.

A lone elephant, perhaps searching for the family.

6. Nearby Attractions:
While Kruger could easily fill a trip, it’s also close to scenic areas like the Panorama Route, featuring Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes, all of which we previously visited.

We must keep our distance from large male bulls who can easily charge a vehicle and tip it over.

The three of us are going to Quiz Night at Giraffe Pub and Grill tonight. At 5:30, friends Kathy and Don, her sister Connie, and Don’s cousin Sandra will join us for dinner and to play the game. It should be extra fun with our friends.

Have a fantastic Tuesday!

Be well.

Photos from ten years ago today, April 15, 2015:

In Kauai, the sun is waning on a less cloudy evening. For more photos, please click here.