A Safari Adventure in Real Life

Juliet Weller
11 minutes ago
3 min read

Lonely tree on an African savanna at sunset, with a dramatic sky and distant hills, creating a serene and tranquil mood.

This is a true story. It happened to my clients just last week; a group of friends among whom were some of my own family members.

They didn't have to come to me for their safari adventure vacation plans (at the risk of being disowned, of course).

I am glad they did, because as usual, I got travel vicariously with and through them.

The praise for this success story really goes to one of my vetted partner companies with an excellent reputation, who performed as they promised, as advertised, as they were expected to.

No - they went above and beyond.

The story begins

The six friends departed for South Africa, and after many long hours of transcontinental travel, spent a few days acclimating to their new surroundings and time zone by enjoying the sights of Cape Town.

The highlight was a tour of Robben Island, the former prison "home" of the late Nelson Mandela.

Days later, departing for the Kruger National Park area, the real adventure began.

The flood

They were met at the airport by their driver, and the unfortunate news that their lodge and the area surrounding it were flooded.

It seemed like there might be no safari trip after all. That's a long way to go for...not much, right?

In that moment, the driver did not (yet) know where he was to deposit these newly arrived tourists. Naturally, faced with this crisis they turned to me (in the middle of my deep, deep sleep) for assistance.

By the time I got my wits about me, the company to whom I had entrusted my clients had pivoted and arranged for another lodge outside of the area of flooding to accept the visitors.

The surprise

Although originally concerned about these unknown digs they being were forced to inhabit, the six were more than pleasantly surprised at the well-appointed accommodations, and the friendly staff who welcomed them, immediately fed and reassured them that all was well, that their vacation was intact, then immediately prepared them for their evening animal drive.

Oh, and I believe there was a bit of high tea involved at one point.

I was pleased and relieved that they were placed in a VERY nice lodge, lacking no creature comforts, and safe from the flood while still able to look forward to their safari.

Oh yes, then I returned to bed.

The wilds

The adventures over the next few days...wow. I've seen the videos. They are not mine to publish, but I assure you that it was great reality TV in the making: chased by an ornery rhino for over three minutes; stared down by a lioness that was much too close for comfort for...well, me (and I was only watching a video); and an almost-chase by a herd of elephants.

I say 'almost' because five enormous elephants with calves "moving with purpose" (as described in the video) toward your open vehicle - friends or foes??? One really doesn't need to wait to find out.

If you can say "they look annoyed"...that means you're too close.

Although flooding was not imminent at the lodge, South Africa's rainy season was true to its name.

The daily animal drives commenced despite downpours until it was decided the roads in the Kruger area were not safe for travel.

Nobody wants to be stuck in the mud in the middle of dinnertime - yours or the animals'.

Epilogue

Authorities eventually closed the airport the day prior to the group's departure, requiring acquisition of a bus (also an emergency "fix"; thank you partners!) to safely transport everyone the five-and-a half hours to Johannesburg.

Every moment an adventure of unexpected twists, and unforgettable memories.

Being able to rely on my partners to attend to my clients is a cornerstone of my business' success.

Every trip forges deeper connections amongst all of us - you, me and the company or individuals to whom we entrust your safety, and your well-being.

When the time comes for you to embark on your next adventure, whatever continent you choose I will be ready with the right partner, and the right experiences for making your journey a memorable one.