The author, initially put off by the intense enthusiasm surrounding South Africa, accepted an invitation to visit and found it to be a life-changing experience.
From skeptic to superfan
Robertson Buckhaven, a drinks columnist, admits he was turned off by the hype around South Africa, comparing it to Taylor Swift fandom. However, a trip organized by Sabi Sabi, a high-end private game reserve, changed his perspective entirely.
The journey began at The Camissa House in Cape Town, a restored 1920s Cape Dutch manor in Constantia. Highlights included Table Mountain, botanical gardens, and the famous penguins at Boulder's Beach.
Safari adventure at Earth Lodge
From Cape Town, the author flew to Johannesburg and was driven to Sabi Sabi's Earth Lodge, an underground-style suite with a plunge pool visited by wildlife. Game drives in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, allowed off-road tracking of animals.
Head Ranger Jamil guided the author, spotting antelope, buffalo, and a young leopard stalking a warthog. The author recalls sitting close to three dozing male lions and encountering a hippo family at night.
Seamless luxury and wildlife
Sabi Sabi provided a five-star experience with exceptional dining, a well-stocked wine cellar, and safety protocols that maintained the thrill of being in a David Attenborough documentary. The author concludes: "I'm officially a Swiftie for South Africa."
The trip was arranged by Travellers' Tales, with packages from £5,385 per person for six nights, including accommodation, activities, meals, and domestic flights. Virgin Atlantic offers direct flights from London Heathrow to Johannesburg from £678 return.
