In February 2026, I travelled to South Africa as part of the World Journeys Mega Lekker famil. With more than two decades in the industry, I approached this trip with a clear focus, not just to experience the destination, but to understand how each moment could translate into something meaningful.

What unfolded was far more than a typical education trip. It gave me a genuine sense of South Africa’s contrasts — its culture, wildlife, and strong sense of place, all coming together in a way that continues to draw travellers back time and time again.

From the energy of Johannesburg to the wild beauty of Kruger, and the coastal ease of Cape Town, this was a journey that balanced adventure with comfort, and discovery with simplicity.

Johannesburg: A City of Contrast and Creativity

After arriving in Johannesburg, I was welcomed with warm South African hospitality and transferred to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa. Tucked away in a quiet residential part of Sandton, it felt like a retreat — lush gardens, eclectic interiors, and a calm atmosphere that sits in contrast to the pace of the city.

The following day, I explored Johannesburg on a private guided tour, including Constitution Hill. It offered an important insight into South Africa’s history, alongside a broader understanding of how the city continues to evolve culturally.

One of the more unexpected highlights was Victoria Yards. It was an area I had initially expected to simply pass through, yet it revealed itself as a vibrant creative space filled with working artist studios, cafés, and small artisan businesses. It felt authentic and grounded — a reminder that some of the most rewarding travel experiences often sit just beneath the surface.

Into the Wild

Leaving the city behind, the journey shifted into the wilderness of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, one of the most well-known private reserves bordering Kruger National Park.

Arriving via Skukuza Airport, the safari experience began almost immediately. 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 a seamless balance of comfort and connection to the surroundings. My suite included a private viewing deck, where I could quietly watch wildlife pass by — a perspective that completely redefines what a “room with a view” can be.

It was the attention to detail that stood out. Early mornings began before sunrise, with a simple muesli and yoghurt station set ahead of the 5:30am game drives. Evenings brought something different each night, from beautifully prepared dinners to a memorable boma experience under the stars.

Everything felt considered, creating an experience that was both relaxed and quietly memorable.

The People Behind the Experience

What truly elevated the safari for me was the team of guides and trackers.

Their ability to read the landscape and anticipate animal movement meant each sighting felt intentional rather than by chance. They took the time to understand what we hoped to see and went to great lengths to make those moments happen — often heading off-road to track wildlife and ensure no two drives felt the same.

Their knowledge, humour, and genuine warmth made even the earliest starts something to look forward to.

Safari Rituals: The Moments In Between

While the wildlife was remarkable, it was often the smaller moments that stayed with me.

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 equally memorable. As the sun began to set, we would pause for sundowners, with drinks set out against the open savannah. These quieter moments, with nothing but the landscape stretching ahead, became just as special as the wildlife sightings themselves.

Wildlife Encounters Beyond Expectation

The wildlife encounters exceeded every expectation.

Seeing the Big Five within the first day was something I hadn’t anticipated. Yet it was the unpredictability of each game drive that made it so memorable.

Elephants would appear without warning, giraffes would calmly cross the road, and a leopard moved effortlessly through the bush — at one point pausing to rub against a tree like a domestic cat. Lions rested quietly nearby, while other wildlife carried on undisturbed.

Evenings brought their own atmosphere, with the distant calls of hyenas echoing through the night during outdoor dinners.

It reinforced something quite simple — no two safaris are ever the same, and that’s exactly what makes them so special.

Ngala Private Game Reserve: A Different Perspective

I had the opportunity to visit Ngala Private Game Reserve, where the experience felt intimate, with wildlife moving freely through the lodge and a strong sense of connection to the surroundings.

Although I didn’t stay overnight, visiting the Ngala Treehouse was a standout. Elevated and completely secluded, it offers a rare opportunity to sleep under the stars, surrounded only by the sounds of the bush. Even in a short visit, I could see how special a stay here would be, and how memorable a night in the treehouse would feel.

Cape Town: Coast, Culture & Scenery

Cape Town provided a striking contrast to the safari experience.

A visit to Table Mountain was a clear highlight, with sweeping views across the city and coastline. I also explored the Cape Peninsula, including Cape Point and Boulders Beach, and spent time in the Cape Winelands enjoying both the scenery and the region’s well-known wines.

Staying at the Cape Grace Hotel on the V&A Waterfront provided a well-positioned and comfortable base to take it all in.

Before You Go: Take Jo’s Travel Tips with You

Private game lodges offer a more considered safari experience, with fewer vehicles and a more natural pace.
I recommend ending your trip with a safari as it’s a memorable way to end your trip.
Let your guide know what you’d most like to see as it really does shape the experience.
July and August offer excellent visibility for wildlife, though travelling just outside these months can mean warmer weather and fewer crowds.
If combining with Cape Town, keep in mind the weather there is less favourable during mid-winter.
Purchase a fast-track ticket for Table Mountain to avoid long queues.
For wine touring, allow at least two nights in Franschhoek as it’s a beautiful town with plenty to enjoy.
A day trip to the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach is well worth including, ideally with a relaxed seafood lunch along the way!
For families with younger children, adding a few nights at Sun City can provide a nice balance with resort-style activities.

My Journey through South Africa