Why South Africa Should Be Your Bucket List
More Than Just a Journey
In February 2026, one of our Wanderlust Travel Experts, Jo O’Gorman of Travel Plan-it, travelled to South Africa as part of the World Journeys Mega Lekker famil. With more than two decades of experience, Jo approached the trip not simply as a traveller, but with a clear focus on how each experience could translate into meaningful journeys for her clients.
What followed was far more than a typical famil. It offered a genuine insight into South Africa’s rich contrasts, its culture, wildlife, and sense of place, bringing together a range of experiences that continue to draw travellers from around the world.
From the energy of Johannesburg to the wild beauty of Kruger, and the coastal charm of Cape Town, Jo experienced a journey that balanced adventure with comfort, and depth with ease.
Johannesburg: A City of Contrast and Creativity
After arriving in Johannesburg, Jo was welcomed with warm South African hospitality and transferred to the elegant Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa. Tucked away in a quiet residential area of Sandton, the hotel felt like a true retreat, surrounded by lush gardens, eclectic interiors, and a sense of calm that contrasts with the city beyond its gates.
The following day, Jo explored Johannesburg on a private guided tour, including a visit to Constitution Hill, where she gained a deeper understanding of South Africa’s complex history, alongside a broader look at the city’s evolving cultural landscape. One of the most surprising highlights of her time in Johannesburg was Victoria Yards. Located in an area she had initially expected to pass through, it revealed itself as a vibrant creative space. Home to working artist studios, cafés, and small artisan businesses, it offered an authentic glimpse into Johannesburg’s thriving local community.
For Jo, it was a reminder that some of the most rewarding travel experiences often come from looking beyond first impressions.
Into the Wild
Leaving the city behind, Jo’s journey moved into the heart of South Africa’s wilderness, beginning in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, one of the most well-known private reserves bordering Kruger National Park.
Arriving via Skukuza Airport, the safari experience began straight away. Transfers were by safari vehicle, so wildlife sightings often started before even reaching the lodge.
Lion Sands River Lodge
Set along the Sabie River, Lion Sands River Lodge offered Jo a balance of comfort and connection to the surroundings. Her suite, complete with a private viewing deck, meant she could watch wildlife pass by in complete privacy, an experience that gave new meaning to a “room with a view”.
What stood out most were the thoughtful touches throughout the stay. Early mornings began before sunrise, with a simple muesli and yoghurt station set up ahead of the 4:30am game drives. Evenings brought something different each night, with beautifully prepared meals and a memorable boma dinner enjoyed under the stars.
From arrival to departure, everything felt well thought through, creating an experience that was both relaxed and quietly memorable.
The People Behind the Experience
For Jo, what truly elevated the safari experience was the team of guides and trackers.
Their ability to read the landscape and anticipate animal movement made each sighting feel considered rather than by chance. Taking note of what guests hoped to see, they went to great lengths to bring those moments to life, often heading off-road to track wildlife and make each drive feel different from the last.
Their warmth, humour, and depth of knowledge made even the earliest starts something to look forward to.
Safari Rituals: The Moments In Between
While the wildlife was extraordinary, it was often the smaller moments that stayed with Jo the longest.
Morning coffee stops, affectionately known as “mocha-chocka-rula”, became a daily ritual, with freshly brewed coffee, a touch of Amarula, and homemade treats enjoyed out in the bush.
Evenings offered something just as memorable. As the sun began to set, the vehicles would pause for sundowners, with drinks set out against the backdrop of the open savannah. With a glass in hand and the landscape stretching out ahead, these quieter moments became just as special as the sightings themselves.
Wildlife Encounters Beyond Expectation
The wildlife encounters throughout Jo’s safari exceeded every expectation.
Seeing the Big Five within the first day was something she hadn’t anticipated. Yet it was the unpredictability of each game drive that made the experience truly memorable.
Elephants would appear without warning, giraffes would pause traffic as they crossed the road, and a leopard moved effortlessly through the bush,stopping briefly to rub against a tree like a domestic cat. Lions rested quietly in the grass, while in the distance, other wildlife carried on undisturbed.
Evenings brought their own sense of atmosphere, with the distant calls of hyenas echoing through the night during outdoor dinners.
For Jo, it became clear that no two safari experiences are ever the same, and that is exactly what makes them so special.
Ngala Private Game Reserve: A Different Perspective
At Ngala Private Game Reserve, Jo experienced a more intimate and open safari environment, where wildlife moved freely through the lodge and the connection to the surroundings felt even more immediate.
One of the standout moments was a night spent in the Ngala Treehouse, an elevated, secluded stay set in the heart of the bush. Sleeping under the stars, with only the sounds of nature around her, it was an experience she describes as truly unforgettable.
Cape Town: Coast, Culture & Scenery
Cape Town offered a striking contrast to the safari experience.
A visit to Table Mountain became a clear highlight, with sweeping views across the city and coastline. Jo also explored the Cape Peninsula, including Cape Point and Boulders Beach, and spent time in the Cape Winelands, enjoying the region’s well-known wines and beautiful surroundings.
Her stay at the Cape Grace Hotel on the V&A Waterfront provided an ideal base for experiencing the city.
Before You Go: Take Jo’s Travel Tips with You
Private game lodges offer a superior safari experience compared to public reserves, with fewer vehicles and less stress on animals.
End your trip with the safari stay for a memorable finish.
Communicate your desired animal sightings to your guide for the best experience.
Peak travel time is July/August for better visibility, but consider visiting slightly before or after for warmer, quieter conditions.
Be aware that Cape Town's weather is least favorable in July/August if combining with a safari.
Purchase a fast access ticket for Table Mountain to skip long queues.
For wine tours, stay 2 nights in Franschhoek, a beautiful town with many amenities.
Take a day trip from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach, and enjoy seafood lunch.
Families with young children should consider adding a couple of nights at Sun City for resort-style activities.
Inspired by Jo’s journey? Whether it’s your first safari or a return to Africa, our Wanderlust Travel Experts can help you plan a personalised experience, designed around how you want to explore South Africa. Get in touch today to find out more.