South Africa – A Journey of Contrasts
South Africa – A Journey of Contrasts
A Dream of Africa: Vibrant and Unforgettable: Join Luca on her journey through South Africa in April 2024. From spectacular safaris in the Kruger National Park to the vibrant city life of Cape Town and the magic of the Garden Route, she experienced countless special moments that captured her heart. In her travel report, she shares not only stunning images and experiences but also personal tips and emotional highlights that will inspire you to explore South Africa’s incredible diversity for yourself. Immerse yourself in a journey full of adventure, indulgence, and inspiration—let Luca’s stories sweep you away!
Safari in the Private Game Reserves of Mala Mala and Sabi Sabi
My journey through South Africa begins with a short stopover in Johannesburg before landing at Skukuza Airport. As the plane taxis down the runway, I spot a cheerful wave from the air traffic controller in the distance. A beaming smile and one of the cutest thatched-roof airports greet us.
In no time, our luggage is loaded, and we’re off in the safari jeep. Even the drive to the camp feels like a mini safari. Playful impalas leap across the grasslands, and the African landscape immediately casts its spell, building anticipation for what lies ahead.
After about 45 minutes, we arrive at the camp, where we’re welcomed with warm smiles and heartfelt greetings. A sense of comfort and excitement fills the air. A quick stop to freshen up in the room, and then it’s time for afternoon tea and a briefing for the days ahead.
Feeling energized, we set out with our ranger, Melanie, on the first game drive. It’s like something out of a storybook! Incredibly, I’m able to check the Big Five off my bucket list on this very first drive. The highlight? Watching a pair of leopards with their prey in a tree as the sun sets. What an amazing start!
Breakfast in the Bush and Elephants in the Front Yard
Admittedly, after ticking off the Big Five during the first game drive, I wonder what other surprises await. Speaking of surprises, we’re treated to breakfast during a morning game drive after an encounter with a pride of 16 lions. On a small clearing, a beautifully set table awaits us, and delicious food sizzles over the fire.
Full and content, we return to the camp to relax. That afternoon brings another surprise: while lounging on the Mala Mala Camp’s terrace, a herd of elephants calmly wanders through the “front yard” (the campgrounds) and starts munching on the vegetation. A perfect continuation of the magical welcome the day before!
The Next Camp Awaits – From Mala Mala to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Upon entering the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge and stepping onto the terrace, we were greeted with a stunning view of a large clearing. Zebras and impalas grazed, a small family of elephants strolled by, and a buffalo cooled itself in the waterhole—what a welcome!
At afternoon tea, we met our guide and tracker for the coming days, Zander and Erik. Zander started as a guide shortly before the COVID pandemic, while Erik has been a tracker for 28 years. We couldn’t have asked for a better team!
For the next few days, we decided to focus on some of the smaller, often underappreciated animals. Our request to Zander and Erik: hyenas, warthogs, vultures, and mongooses.
Reflections on My Time in the Bush
One thing that amazed me most about being in the bush is the element of surprise—you never know what the day will bring. What might we see on the game drive? Which animals might unexpectedly appear around the camp?
Having the chance to witness nature in all its beauty and being a silent observer of it is profoundly moving. Adding to this are the encounters with the guides and trackers, whose extensive knowledge of wildlife and fascinating stories about the wilderness make every drive an unforgettable experience.
Next Stop: Cape Town – From Culture Shock to Culinary Heaven
I won’t lie: my first impression of Cape Town is overwhelming. During the descent, the sight of the townships surrounding the airport is sobering. Gone is the endless expanse of wilderness.
At the arrivals hall, Jason, our guide for Cape Town, greets us with a warm smile. He takes us to our home for the next few days: the Blackheath Lodge by Oyster Collection.
Touching Encounters
Mimi – An Incredibly Strong Woman
One of the most touching encounters of our trip through South Africa was meeting Mimi! She has been working at the Blackheath Lodge for just six months, having previously worked in construction. Originally from Zimbabwe, she moved to South Africa with her sister and her two children in search of a better life.
While her 16-year-old daughter takes care of her two-year-old son, Mimi charms us with her incredible warmth and fantastic recommendations. Despite her long workdays and commute, she radiates joy and positivity.
Meeting Mimi reminded us once again of how privileged we are to travel, and how, for many, such opportunities are far from a given.
Nela – A Visit to Langa
Langa is one of Cape Town's oldest townships and, like many others, is located not far from the airport. On the drive there, I feel a knot of unease in my stomach. I wonder if such a visit is appropriate. Will my presence make the township residents uncomfortable? Or is it important, as someone privileged, to confront these aspects of Cape Town? Thoughts swirl in my mind.
But as I step out of the car, all my doubts vanish. Nela, a resident of the township, greets us with a warm smile. Today, he will give us insight into his life and the lives of many others here.
The first thing that catches my eye is a brightly painted house on the edge of the settlement—the community center. It offers a variety of activities, from music lessons to beadwork and other crafts. Nela explains that the community center is a hub where many residents gather.
We then visit the original courthouse, now converted into a small museum, where we learn a great deal about the history of the townships. Afterward, we walk through the first streets of the settlement—a world we usually only see on television.
Ignoring the harsh realities doesn’t make them disappear. The conditions in which people live here are incredibly unjust. Yet, we also see the pride Nela has in the progress his community has made—the initiatives within the township and the support for children in particular.
This visit opened my eyes and is an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Culinary Heaven
My culinary highlight in Cape Town is undoubtedly the FYN restaurant. Located in the heart of the city on the 8th floor, the space is both striking and elegant. Countless wooden discs hang from the ceiling like the beads of an abacus, continuing seamlessly onto the walls. The overall design is almost entirely black, and the lighting creates a truly unique atmosphere.
We’re lucky enough to snag seats at the counter, offering a perfect view into the open kitchen. From there, we watch as the chefs craft a stunning 12-course menu for us. The cuisine features Asian influences but is firmly rooted in the use of local ingredients—a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Grootbos – Pure Nature
It’s time to leave the city behind and continue our journey with a rental car. A quick adjustment: here, you drive on the left side of the road and get in on the right! We decide to take the coastal route, even though it’s a bit longer.
The journey takes us towards Gordon’s Bay and on to Betty’s Bay, where we stop to visit the local penguins. After a short break, we continue through the coastal town of Hermanus, and soon we’re almost there. In the distance, we spot the cottages of Grootbos peeking through the landscape. Upon arrival, we’re greeted by a breathtaking view—nestled among shrubs and flowers, the coastline stretches out before us, and in the distance, even the Cape of Good Hope is visible. The white sand dunes look as if snow has fallen—a setting so stunning, no photo could ever do it justice.
As I sip on a delicious glass of wine and enjoy a fantastic lunch, I feel a sense of calm washing over me. Slowly, I begin to unwind, leaving the bustle of Cape Town far behind.
The next morning, sunlight streaming through the large terrace windows gently wakes me. Today’s agenda includes a very special activity: a flower safari! Yes, you read that right—unlike a few days ago, when we were spotting animals, this time, the focus is on flora. And for good reason: this region is one of the most biodiverse in the world. The variety of fynbos plants here is truly unique.
With our guide and a safari jeep, we set off into the lush greenery. To preserve the diversity, controlled burns are deliberately set in the area, as we learn that fire is essential for the reproduction of certain plants.
Another highlight at Grootbos is a gallery showcasing artwork by various international artists, capturing the incredible plant life of the reserve on paper. Walking through the gallery, you truly begin to grasp the richness of the region’s biodiversity—and the collection is far from complete!
Franschhoek – Exploring a Wine Paradise
The final stop on our journey is Franschhoek. The drive from Grootbos to Franschhoek takes just under two hours, but the time flies by as the scenery changes dramatically along the way. Passing stunning mountain ranges, colorful fields, grazing cows and sheep, and, of course, vineyards, the landscape feels like something out of a postcard.
Franschhoek itself is a charming little town with a population of around 15,000. Its name reveals its origins: Franschhoek translates to "French Corner," reflecting its founding by the French Huguenots.
From Franschhoek, there are many ways to explore the area's numerous wineries. One popular option is the wine tram, which allows visitors to hop on and off at various wineries along the route. Alternatively, you can visit the wineries by car, either with a driver or by renting one. Some wineries welcome walk-ins, while others require advance reservations for tastings.
Among my must-visit recommendations is Oldenburg Vineyards near Stellenbosch. Nestled in a breathtaking mountain setting, the tasting room features floor-to-ceiling windows offering a spectacular view of the idyllic surroundings.
Another unforgettable experience is visiting Babylonstoren—a place where you can easily spend hours. Stroll through its picturesque gardens, enjoy a wine tasting, and explore its small museum dedicated to the history of wine. Additionally, there are delightful shops offering gourmet treats and unique items, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
Top 4 – Restaurants to Visit in Franschhoek
- Reuben’s – Renowned South African chef offering exceptional cuisine.
- Protégé – A fine-dining experience in a relaxed and casual setting.
- Oku – Asian-inspired cuisine with a creative twist.
- Eleven – Global dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
My South Africa Recap
My journey through South Africa left a profound impression on me in so many ways. I feel incredibly grateful and happy for all the encounters I had and the experiences I was fortunate enough to enjoy. These are memories I will treasure forever and moments I will draw joy from for years to come.
Despite much reflection, I simply can’t pick a single highlight. It’s the combination of so many different aspects that made this trip unforgettable.
Each stop on my journey was unique, leaving a lasting impression and captivating me in its own way. That’s why I would encourage anyone to explore South Africa for themselves and discover the country’s incredible diversity.
South Africa has so much to offer! However, one should be prepared for the fact that not everything will be easy to digest. Yet, getting to know even these more challenging sides is a privilege, and we shouldn’t turn a blind eye to them.
Who Should Travel to South Africa?
Ultimately, South Africa is so incredibly diverse that it’s a destination for everyone. Whether you want to dive into the African wilderness on safari, experiencing the thrill of daily game drives and unexpected wildlife sightings, or immerse yourself in the vibrant buzz of Cape Town, there’s something for every traveler. From strolling along the lively Waterfront to indulging in world-class restaurants and bars, there’s so much to explore.
For those seeking peace and a break from the hustle and bustle, Grootbos offers the perfect retreat. The quiet and vastness of the green landscape invite you to slow down and let your mind wander, whether on small or long hikes. If Cape Town feels too busy but you don’t want to miss out on culinary delights, the wine region around Franschhoek will make you happy.
Of course, South Africa offers even more, like the Garden Route, often featured in luxury car commercials for its breathtaking scenery. This scenic coastal road is perfect for self-drivers. If you enjoy driving through stunning landscapes, this route should definitely be on your bucket list.
Water lovers will also find their paradise in South Africa, with beautiful beaches not only for swimming but also for amazing surfing spots. And let’s not forget the chance to witness blue whales in their natural habitat—the majestic creatures can be spotted during the breeding season from June to November.
The list could go on and on, but the fact is: South Africa is a destination that can captivate both young and old alike.
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