Hit play as you read this post… it will make you want to hit the road!
I AM CURRENTLY ON MY WAY TO THE BUSH, DOING RESEARCH FOR TRAVEL & THINGS.
PUBLISHING BLOG POSTS WILL DEPEND ON CONNECTIVITY. NORMAL PUBLICATION DAYS WILL RESUME ONCE I RETURN.
To find information about all the properties, click on the appropriate logo to be linked directly to the relevant website.
Once again, my road trip North will start, as it always does, at De Ark in Lydenburg. This is either my 9th or 10th visit, and I keep finding interesting nooks and crannies…
From their website: ” De Ark Guest House in Lydenburg offers a typical colonial ‘Out of Africa’ experience in the historic town of Lydenburg in Mpumalanga province, South Africa, a mere 90 minutes from the ultimate Big 5 safari game reserve, the Kruger National Park.
This affordable luxury guesthouse in the centre of Lydenburg offers a selection of self-catering and bed & breakfast accommodation, each boasting a private entrance, an en-suite shower/bath and secure parking. All this in a stylishly decorated room with all the modern comforts you would expect when choosing accommodation.
The legendary hospitality and years of experience of owner Francis Le Roux and her small, well-trained staff are just what you would expect when considering a wedding, conference, a comfortable business stay or affordable accommodation for a short stay on your way to the Kruger National Park“.
This will be the final trip of the year, and I plan to make it count!
I will be revisiting 5 camps and 3 new ones.
Although I don’t eat Kosher myself, this camp has a complete Kosher kitchen and a competent chef who will make food less of an issue for those who wish to follow religious dietary requirements while in the bush.
This is my first visit to this recently established camp, so I have to take their word for it…
“More than a lodge, we speak a subtle, heartfelt language of natural elegance. Rooted in our deep love for the African bush, our features speak for themselves. We invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy every moment spent on this truly beautiful spot on the hill“.
Much to be written when I return.
I have been trying to get to this camp for more than a year!
From their website.
“Pungwe is a small, intimate and authentic safari camp which evokes the essence of a true safari experience. With just four comfortable en-suite Meru-style tents reminiscent of the days when safaris were all about the sights, sounds and smells of wild Africa, our camp is about the bush, the wild fauna and flora, the stories of the wilderness and the subsequent regaling of these by our iconic campfire.
Our ethos is that of a slow safari, where guests can recalibrate and indulge in the rare luxury of a digital detox, without wifi. Perfect for privately guided small groups with special interests like birding, photography and astronomy, Pungwe offers an immersive experience par excellence“.
I look forward to seeing how accurate their description is…
Back to one of my favourite Sun Destinations properties for the 5th time, however, this time I will be participating in 2 days of walking trails rather than just heading out on game drives.
So, what WILL I be doing there? I will be with Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails based at Chacma Bush Camp, and I can expect the following:
What to expect: A 3-day, guided walking safari where you trek through the reserve and spend each night in a different location, sleeping in dome tents.
Focus: An immersive experience in the wild, including educational aspects on plants, wildlife tracking, and comfortable camping with private facilities.
Booking: This is a separate, multi-day package that includes walking and camping, and is an option for those seeking a deeper adventure“.
This information was gleaned from their website. I hope to return with tales of my own experiences.
The last time I was at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, I saw so many leopards that it was almost overwhelming.
To quote their website: ” Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is your gateway to an African safari in the heart of the Sabie Game Reserve. Our position on the banks of the seasonal Sand River ensures excellent game viewing right from the Lodge“.
I have stayed here previously and enjoyed both the accommodation and the food. Hence, me stopping here once more.
Their website says it all…
” Escape to Ekhaya Bush Villa, a sanctuary of tranquillity nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the South African Bushveld. Here, time slows down, and the gentle rhythm of nature sets the pace.
Immerse yourself in the exquisite fusion of modern luxury and authentic African design. Ekhaya Bush Villa boasts handcrafted furnishings and décor, celebrating the rich heritage of the region while providing every comfort for a truly indulgent escape.
Relax and rejuvenate in the expansive indoor/outdoor living spaces, where panoramic ocean views and lush gardens create an idyllic backdrop. Whether you’re lounging by the sparkling pool, savouring a delicious meal prepared in the gourmet kitchen, or simply soaking in the serenity of your surroundings“…
I look forward to my visit and discovering what this camp has to offer.
I have not been there before, so I am relying on their website for this information…
“ The Danish couple Jørgen & Lisbeth Nielsen purchased the lodge in the beginning of 2022, and with 25 years of experience in running South African lodges, MILIMA has now been completely renovated into an all-inclusive 4-star safari lodge. The lodge opened on September 1, 2022.
Our goal is to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible with highly experienced service-minded staff from management to chefs to provide not only a world-class safari experience but also world-class meals paired with the best wines.
Our local rangers are experts in tracking the animals, thus ensuring that you have as many amazing safari experiences as possible when staying at MILIMA.
We offer a unique African safari experience. At the lodge, you can pamper yourself with first-class gastronomy and a fine selection of South African wine, beers and all other beverages“.
Another return visit. There is always something new and exciting going on at this camp, and I am looking forward to interacting with the staff for Season 2 of their podcast series. (Use this link to watch Season 1: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDXmz-IHHTT_Xjz3ll1YxGQ)
Click on the logo to find out more about the camp and what the camp has to offer.
NOW you know why I love my job!
I am grateful to all of the guest houses and lodges that will be hosting me, and I look forward to the unique experiences that I can share with my Blog readers and my YouTube channel viewers.
Travel & Things is the proud winner of these prestigious awards from the digital British lifestyle magazine Luxlife.
The awards are in the categories:
Best Travel & Experiences Blog 2024 – South Africa
Best African Game Reserves & Lodges Travel Review Site 2025.
Best African Resorts and Retreats Award 2025.
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