Embarking on a safari adventure in Africa is often considered to be the trip of a lifetime, and for good reason. The continent boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, breath taking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. However, planning such a trip can be overwhelming. This is where a hosted safari comes in and SafariScapes will provide a hassle-free and personalized experience for all travellers. On one of our latest journeys we welcomed back our repeat clients and embarked on an epic privately hosted safari carefully curated to explore some new and specific regions. These included South Africa, Tanzania and Rwanda. Within these countries we covered areas such as the Western Cape and Sabi Sands in South Africa, the Serengeti and Grumeti in Tanzania and the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

The start of our trip took us to the small peaceful seaside town of Hermanus in South Africa. Not only is it the perfect place to relax and acclimate after traveling to South Africa but it boasts some world class activities in and around the area too. Some of which include incredible sea and land based whale watching. In fact Hermanus was named one of the best whale watching destinations in the world. We can attest to this as during our three-night stay at Birkenhead House we managed to see countless Southern Right Whales frolicking in the waves right in front of the hotel. The area is also known for the beautiful Hemel–en–Aarde Valley, famous for its incredible wine estates, cuisine, and breath-taking views. Hemel – en Aarde translates to Heaven and Earth and it’s definitely a fitting name!

Our journey continued after our three night stay in Hermanus as we headed to Cape Town International. We boarded our private Pilatus PC12 and flew to the renowned Sabi Sands forming part of the greater Kruger National Park. With Sabi Sands being a private reserve it allows for great photographic opportunities and the interaction with the likes of the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. As part of this particular itinerary we opted for a five night stay instead of the average three night stay and I would highly recommend this to any repeat safari clients. The extended stay meant no pressure to partake in every activity and take the time to really enjoy the lodge and its five star amenities. It also allowed us to immerse ourselves in the area and really focus on specific photographic opportunities. As always it did not disappoint as we had countless interactions with the abundance of game in the area. A highlight would have to be the time we got to spend with a coalition of four male lions dominating the northern sector of the concession.

After our stay in the Sabi Sands we made our way up to Tanzania in East Africa in the hopes of catching the tail end of great migration and experience a sort after river crossing. Imagine witnessing this awe-inspiring spectacle as thousands of wildebeest and zebras traverse the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing grounds. This phenomenon is a sight to behold, as the plains come alive with the sounds of these quantity of these animals. The transition from South Africa to Tanzania can be a fairly long and complicated day however with our access to private aircraft it made for a seamless transition. Once clearing customs and immigration at a private airport facility in Kilimanjaro, we headed to our first safari destination in the Serengeti National Park. We spent three nights within the National Park and it was all we hoped it would be. We were lucky enough to witness one of the most incredible river crossings with thousands of Wildebeest taking the plunge into the Mara River and onwards to the fresh grazing areas. It was absolutely heart stopping and chaotic to say the least. From a photographic stand point it’s easy to see why this is one of the most iconic African scenes. One of the absolute highlights of our stay would be taking a sunrise hot air balloon safari. What a picturesque and or “Out of Africa” moment!! This is the best possible way to appreciate the endless vistas that make the Serengeti and as you float seamlessly across these open plains you never know what you might see. The Serengeti is an absolute must but needs to be carefully planned to allow for the best possible experience.

From the Serengeti it was a quick hop across to the Grumeti reserve where we enjoyed our final safari destination and time at the incredible Serengeti House. If you want the perfect contrast of safari and opulence this is everything you’ll ever need. The Grumeti is a private reserve on the Western boundary of the Serengeti expanding for thousands of square miles. This beautiful private reserve offers panoramic views as far as the eye can see with some of the most incredible game viewing. Let’s not forget the quint essential African sunsets from the rolling hills that occupy this area too. Pictures just don’t it justice. During our time we got to witness one of the most incredible spectacles as we encountered hundreds of thousands of Zebra on their journey through the area. The dazzle of black and white stripes extended past what the eye could see. Something quite spectacular. With the abundance of game in the area so came the predators too and where lucky enough to witness the ever standing battle between lions and buffalo’s. In this instance the lions managed to take down a big Buffalo bull moments before our arrival. It was graphic but what a bucket list interaction.

After a life changing week in Tanzania we headed West to Rwanda for the final part of this incredible journey. On arrival into the “Land of a Thousand Hills” we got to experience the first class hospitality as always and spent our final three nights at Kataza House. The lodge is situated below one of the volcanoes that makes up the Volcanoes National Park making for breath taking views and enough to get the mind wondering what could be out there. The lodge couldn’t be more convenient to the national park headquarters and catered to every first class experience. Trekking gorillas in Rwanda is an experience that will truly take your breath away. The Volcanoes National Park, is a haven for these incredible creatures. Watching a family of gorillas in their daily routines is truly mesmerizing. From playful youngsters in the trees to the powerful silverback protecting his family, every moment spent in their presence is awe-inspiring and filled with adrenalin. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is not just about the gorillas themselves. The entire experience is enriched by the beauty of the misty mountains, the sounds of the forest, and the knowledge that you are partaking in a conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals. It’s an experience that will leave you with a deep sense of wonder and gratitude for the beauty of the natural world.

As our journey through South Africa, Tanzania, and Rwanda came to an end you can’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences and unforgettable memories we got to make. From the whales and wildlife in South Africa to exploring the endless plains of Tanzania and trekking gorillas in the forests of Rwanda, each destination offered its own unique experience. But the African safari experience is about more than just wildlife. It’s about creating the life long memories too that will forever be close to your heart.

Till the next time.