I’ve always been drawn to the serenity of the bush and the ocean. These are the places where I reconnect with myself, reflect on life, and find unparalleled peace and tranquility. My recent visit to Safari Plains was no exception.
The journey began with a scenic drive from Johannesburg to Bela-Bela, taking me approximately 180 kilometers into the heart of Limpopo. Nestled within the majestic Waterberg Mountains, Safari Plains is a sister lodge to Mabula, so I arrived with high expectations for a tranquil setting, friendly staff, and the privacy and safety crucial for a solo traveler.
As I drove into the lodge after registration at the main gate, the adventure began. The final 20-minute drive felt like an intimate safari, surrounded by game and stunning scenery, setting the stage for what was to come. Arriving just before sunset, I was warmly greeted by the staff, who took care of my luggage, allowing me to simply enjoy the surroundings without the hassle of dragging bags to my room. A welcome drink at reception, followed by a brief orientation, marked the perfect start to my stay.
The remainder of the afternoon was spent soaking in the quietude, a much-needed escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Dinner that evening was nothing short of a culinary delight – a five-course meal paired with exquisite wines, leaving me fully satisfied and ready to retire for the night. I couldn’t help but look forward to the 6:30 AM game drive. Game drives and wildlife spotting are my passion, and this one did not disappoint.
The next morning, we tracked a pride of lions that had unsuccessfully hunted the night before, spotted buffaloes and white rhinos, and even witnessed a dramatic standoff between rhinos, buffaloes, and wildebeest—a truly unforgettable experience. The game drive concluded with a tranquil coffee break in the bush, featuring a dash of Amarula, before heading back to the lodge for a sumptuous breakfast spread.
The rest of my morning was dedicated to guilt-free rest and relaxation—something I’m learning to embrace as I ease into a new season of allowing myself to recover after intense periods of work. Though it feels unusual, this intentional pause is becoming more rewarding each day.
But let’s talk about something amusing before I dive into the evening safari. After breakfast, my hair was in need of some TLC following the morning’s wind. The beauty of wig life meant I could wash it and hang it out to dry in the warm Limpopo sun. To my amusement, the housekeepers had a good laugh at the sight of my wig drying outside the tent. With the temperature hitting 25 degrees by 11 AM, my hair was dry and my curls were back by 2 PM – ready for the afternoon safari.
The sunset safari, led by our insightful ranger Mpho, affectionately known as The Black Ingwe, was both educational and enchanting. I learned so much about leopards, my spirit animal. Did you know that leopards are solitary creatures, thriving in the wild alone? Males and females only cross paths to mate.
What I love most about safaris is the chance to relax, observe the plains, and ask questions about animal behavior. There’s something magical about watching the natural world operate in perfect harmony, each organism playing its role in the circle of life. It’s a vivid reminder that life’s cycles, whether in the bush or in our everyday lives, are inevitable. Sometimes, like the lions we tracked, we go out for the hunt and return empty-handed, tired, and in need of rest before the next chase. Other times, we find ourselves the hunted, down but not out. It’s all part of the journey, and the key is to keep going.
After another delicious dinner, I couldn’t wait to return to my tent for a long, relaxing bath, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the African night. By the time I returned to Johannesburg, my spirit was rejuvenated, and my mind refreshed.
If you’re yearning for a quick escape, a safari adventure at Safari Plains should be at the top of your list. The luxurious tented accommodations, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Waterberg, offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.