Wow! After being a city girl for my entire life, I have learnt to appreciate living in South Africa and have come to realise how fortunate we are to have the best of both worlds.
Thus far, I have experienced new and wonderfully things, and have come to terms with the fact that there is no cellphone reception, and your phone dying during your day is not the worst thing that could happen. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not like I have never been to the “bush”, but coming out to Madikwe Game Reserve has indeed been a pleasant surprise as how I have adjusted to the way of life in these parts of SA.
The second day of Part 2 of the SAHO road trip has been a day of adventure, as we kick started our morning at Impodimo Game Lodge where we satisfied our tummies with a scrumptious English breakfast, French toast with berry marmalade, and a selection of cheeses. Once our taste buds were treated, when then set out to feast our eyes on some wild life on our first game drive of the trip.
The game rangers of Impodimo took us on a hunt to track down three leopards. A rare sight in the reserve as there are only five in 75 000 hectares. It was fascinating, as the trackers got off the game ranger vehicle, and went on foot to find these three leopards. While the game rangers and trackers were busy, we had a mid morning snack of blueberry muffins and hot chocolate.
After lunch at Impodimo Game Lodge, we packed up all our luggage in the Toyota Land Cruiser, and headed for the road to our next destination – Etali Safari Lodge. Etali is about 45 minutes away from Impodimo, and is en route home.
Once we entered the game reserve, we spotted a few animals, from zebras to a herd of giraffes, as well as a few impala and buffalos. We are yet to see lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos and hyenas.
The beauty of Madikwe Game Reserve is that each lodge is different, while you might think they all offer the same, you will be pleasantly surprised. Etali Game Lodge has a slightly more modern look and feel, and this is what makes it different.
Over looking a water hole, Etali Safari Lodge is also very much part of the reserve. Over high tea, we were fortunate to watch a scene unfold as a herd of elephants made their way to the water, where they drank and played with their little ones – a spectacular sight!
Etali Safari Lodge is also known for its spa therapy. With two therapists who specialise in Africology products and spa treatments, we were treated to a full body massage and foot scrub. Definitely one of the highlights of the day!
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