January Trip Report: When the Wild Rewrites the Plan

January started off with a bang, but not in the way we expected.

The Kruger Lowveld region of South Africa, where we are based and from where most of our safaris operate, was hit by one of the worst floods in recorded history. The average annual rainfall here is around 500 mm per year, yet some areas in adjoining reserves received over 1,000 mm in just a few days. Rivers burst their banks, low-lying areas were submerged, and even next to our office a usually dry stream became a fast-flowing river rushing past the house. The damage was widespread, with several lodges forced to evacuate guests as access roads disappeared under water.

In the midst of this, we had a scheduled co-hosted safari with Sabie River Crossings, with guests due to arrive in Cape Town. Flights out of Hoedspruit were cancelled after part of the runway was washed away, but with flexibility and a fair bit of problem-solving, we managed to fly out and meet the group safely. Arriving in Cape Town felt like a collective exhale and the perfect place to officially kick off this 18 day adventure.

Cape Town delivered in spectacular fashion. Blue skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions set the tone for a memorable City and Sea journey. As this was a private tour guided by Hylton and I, we were able to adapt daily plans around the weather, always putting the group in the best possible position to enjoy each experience.

We visited the Boulders Beach penguin colony and spent time watching these endangered birds waddle between their nests and dive into the ocean. Rock hyraxes grazed casually among the vegetation, seemingly unfazed by the penguins or our presence. Seeing the penguins swimming and playing in the water was an early highlight.

From there, we continued to Cape Point, where we spotted ostriches strolling along the beachfront and baboons foraging along the rugged coastline. Those feeling adventurous climbed to the lighthouse lookout point, rewarded with sweeping views over False Bay. The drive home along Chapman’s Peak was a showstopper, with dramatic cliffs, winding roads, and endless photo opportunities.

The following day was devoted to Cape Town’s icons and history. We rode the aerial cableway to the top of Table Mountain, explored the colourful streets of the Bo-Kaap while sampling koesisters, and learned about the rich cultural history of the area. A walk through the Company’s Garden brought stories of the Dutch settlers to life, along with insights into the South African Parliament and the city’s layered past.

Above: The group enjoying colourful Bo-Kaap

Our final day in the Cape Winelands was the perfect finale. A wine and cheese pairing at the Fairview Estate Goat Shed was followed by a leisurely walk through the magnificent gardens of Babylonstoren, where the landscaping left everyone in awe. We ended the day at Delaire Graff, where exceptional wines, a world-class art collection, and a breathtaking setting combined to truly wow the group.

All the while, behind the scenes, Hylton and I were closely monitoring the flood situation back home. We knew that the original safari lodge planned for the next leg of the journey was still inaccessible. Quietly and efficiently, we secured an alternative property and negotiated a refund with the original lodge, all without burdening the guests with the logistics. They were aware of the flooding and knew flexibility would be required, but our goal was simple. Let them relax, enjoy the journey, and not miss a beat.

Once all arrangements were in place, we headed to the Hoedspruit region and into the Blyde Canyon area. Here, the group visited Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre and gained deeper insight into the conservation challenges facing African wildlife. A boat trip on the Blyde Dam followed, where the dam was over 100 percent full and the powerful Tufa Waterfalls were in full flow. Hippos playing in the water stole the show.

A community visit to Nourish EcoVillage and Sigagule Village offered a meaningful cultural exchange. Time was spent at a local crèche playing with the children, followed by a walk through the village where guests learned about the traditions of the Shangaan people. The experience was rounded off with a taste of traditional beer, cow’s head, pap, and mopane worms, a true local delicacy.

Above: Spending time with the children of Nourish Ecovillage

Safari officially began at Kruger Gate. Despite some roads still being closed, the next four days delivered exceptional wildlife encounters. Elephants blocked the roads, leopards lounged in trees, African wild dogs were followed on the hunt, and lions rested on granite boulders. The Kruger did not disappoint. A standout moment was being in exactly the right place at the right time when the Kruger veterinary team darted and re-collared an endangered African wild dog right next to our vehicle. Witnessing conservation in action is always a privilege.

Above: Witnessing conservation in action, as the SAPNParks Wildlife veterinarians darted and re-collared an African Wild Dog

Between game drives, guests relaxed at the swimming pool overlooking the Sabie River. Even lunch came with a show, as hippos were spotted fighting in the water below.

The journey ended in a private reserve in the Balule Game Reserve. Over the final four nights, guests enjoyed close encounters with white rhinos and were lucky enough to witness a leopard stalking and catching a baby warthog. Evenings were spent under a full moon, gathered around the fireplace, sharing stories and reflecting on an unforgettable journey.

A heartfelt thank you to Sabie River Crossings for the opportunity to co-host and guide this special group. January reminded us that Africa does not always follow the plan, but with experience, adaptability, and the right partners, it often delivers something even better. We look forward to many more adventures together.