From spotting baby lions in Kruger to swimming in hippo ponds in the Okavango Delta, I discovered why timing and trust matter most on safari.
I had dreamed of Africa for years, but I needed to experience it myself before I could ever recommend it to a client. So I set off on my first safari, choosing Intrepid for their small group size (maximum 12 travellers) and opting for an Overland camping adventure through South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. What followed were 17 nights sleeping in canvas tents inside national parks, waking to sounds I'd only ever heard in documentaries, and witnessing wildlife moments that still replay in my mind.
The okavango Delta had always called to me, and I'd heard incredible things about Chobe National Park. But I wanted the full immersion, not just the Instagram highlights. I chose the upgraded camping option, which meant a dedicated team handling all our meals. What they created over open campfires was nothing short of spectacular. The food alone would have made the trip memorable.
The Moment Everything Changed
I remember driving into Kruger National Park for the first time. Within minutes, we spotted movement in the tall grass. My brain registered it before my heart could catch up: a baby lion, walking away from his pride. "Simba," I whispered, feeling ridiculous and completely in awe simultaneously. It felt like stepping into a film. That first wildlife encounter, the one you'll never forget, set the tone for everything that followed.
What surprised me most was the sheer abundance. I arrived hoping to see a giraffe, maybe catch a glimpse of an elephant. By the end of the trip, we were driving past herds of zebras and giraffes without stopping, simply because we'd been blessed with so many sightings. One afternoon, we came upon a pack of wild dogs resting beneath a tree. Our guide's voice dropped to a reverent whisper as he explained how rare this was, how their numbers are dwindling across Africa. That moment, the one I hadn't even known to wish for, became one of my most treasured.
I also watched a pride of lions stalking prey, learning that the hunt unfolds far more slowly than any nature documentary suggests. The intensity, the patience, the focus in their eyes. It's something you carry with you long after you've returned home. And yes, on a sweltering day in the Okavango Delta, we cooled off by swimming in what we affectionately called the hippo pond. That's a sentence I never imagined writing.
The Practical Wisdom
I travelled in September, during the dry season, and this timing proved essential. With water sources limited, animals congregate at watering holes, making wildlife encounters far more frequent. We didn't have to travel far to witness extraordinary things. Our guide introduced us to a phrase we'd repeat often: T.I.A., "This is Africa." When borders have unexpected lineups, when schedules shift without explanation, when things simply work differently than expected, you embrace it.
The roads, I should mention, are challenging. For travellers who aren't comfortable with long, bumpy drives, I now know to recommend flying certain stretches. But sleeping inside the parks themselves? Non-negotiable. The night game drives, heading out after dinner to see a completely different world emerge, those were among our most magical experiences.
Who This Is For
This trip is perfect for wildlife lovers who crave genuine adventure, travellers willing to let go of rigid expectations and embrace the unexpected. It's ideal for those who want connection, not just with animals, but with fellow travellers and local guides who become family over 17 days. Our small group bonded quickly, working together to set up camp, sharing stories under star-filled skies.
If you're considering Africa, my advice is simple: say yes to every game drive. Every single one. The sunrise drive will be different from the afternoon drive, which will be different from tomorrow's. We were surprised and delighted each time we set out. And don't miss Chobe National Park in Botswana. It's often overlooked, but we had hours of game drives without another vehicle in sight. Choose a reputable company, go with a small group, and stay inside the parks. That's where the real magic lives. I can't wait to help my clients experience it for themselves.
