A Complete Guide to South Africa’s Gondwana Game Reserve

Along South Africa’s scenic Garden Route, just a four hour drive from Cape Town there is an idyllic luxury private safari park. Welcome to Gondwana Game Reserve! Truly one of the most scenic, magical places I have ever had the privilege of staying.

We spent 3 unforgettable days and 2 nights going on safaris, lounging by the pool and soaking in the atmosphere at this luxurious resort.

This 26,000 acre safari park is privately owned which means unlike public lands in Africa, only guests who have booked a safari are allowed on the property. The animals are still wild and roam freely in their natural habitat though!

And once you arrive, you’ll be swept away by the spectacular views of the Langeberg and Outeniqua Mountains with herds of animals dotted across the landscape.

Highlights of our stay included:

• Game Rangers who were both friendly and truly experts in their field
• Getting up close to herds of elephants, zebras, hippos, giraffes, rhinoceros and lions
• Luxurious rooms for the duration our stay
• Indulgent spa treatments
• Pan African Cuisine (a mix of European & African cooking) at all meals

Book Your Stay & Safari Here.

How To Get To Gondwana Game Reserve

Fly into Cape Town, from there it’s just an easy 4 hour drive east across South Africa. It’s the perfect Big 5 safari destination and easily accessible from this major city.

Accommodation At Gondwana Game Reserve

Imagine luxury villas with a crackling fire place where you can drink your coffee and overlook the rolling African hills while a family of giraffes lazily wanders past. This type of idyllic paradise is what waits for you in South Africa!

And the way the villas so perfectly blend into the landscape is simply stunning.

Wide open lounge space, comfortable bedrooms and a large bathroom with a luxurious tub for that post safari relaxation bath…. the accommodation allows for adventure in the jeeps but all the comforts of home. So you can kick back and relax during your stay!

Our group stayed in the Bush Villas and Fynbos Villas.

Each of these villas sleeps 6 people with private rooms for sets of two. There is a large living room and kitchen which we all shared. It’s the perfect set up for a family or group of friends to split.

If you’re looking for ultimate luxury, book the Kwena Lodge.

The property also offers a tented eco-camp for a more hands on learning experience that lets you get involved with what’s going on at the park. Find out more here.

What animals can you see at Gondwana Game Reserve?

This private safari reserve is home to the Big Five which includes:

1.  Lions
2. Leopards
3. Rhinoceros
4. Elephants
5. Cape buffalo

But you’ll also see dozens of giraffe and zebra roaming the park.

In fact, when we first arrived we found our accommodation was entirely surrounded by a dazzle of zebra! I couldn’t believe it. And they seemed to pay us zero mind as we stood gazing in wonder only 10 feet away.

We were also lucky to repeatedly spot hippos both in and out of the water. (Did you know hippos are among the most dangerous animals in the world? They are incredibly aggressive!)

And although we didn’t spot any, there are quite a few cheetah roaming around as well.

We while we might not have been lucky with some of the big cats, we did right up close and personal to lots of elephants! Even some awfully cute babies ones.

How much is a stay at Gondwana Game Reserve?

During the busy season, the luxury 6 person villas comes out to be ZAR 6,830 ($370 USD) per person after all taxes and fees. But this includes all your meals as well!

However, if you’re willing to travel outside of peak season you can get this incredible villa for at lot less! Their winter special is ZAR 2,475 ($134 USD) for a night. Again, this includes 3 full course meals a day at their luxury dining.

Looking to cut even more costs?

You can opt for just breakfast and dinner each day when booking. Bring some of your own groceries and snacks for lunch and store them in the full kitchen provided in your villa. Having a big breakfast and dinner was more than enough! Relaxing between safaris and snacking on our food for lunch at the villa worked great.

What To Pack For A Stay At Gondwana Game Reserve

Pass on the bright colors and opt for neutral tones to maximize camouflage in the bush. There is a reason khaki is a safari favorite. It’s breathable in the hot sun, camouflages you well and unlike a pure white fabric, when you inevitably get dirty- it’s much less visible!

Early morning game drives can be COLD. Pack layers and you can always remove a coat, gloves or scarves easily since you remain in one vehicle the whole time. Yes, the afternoon sun might be hot. But it’s best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. We were rained on, the wind was freezing cold and we also enjoyed plenty of sunny afternoons. So dress in layers. And be prepared for all kinds of weather. Especially if you are traveling in the fall or winter.

Pro tip for the ladies: You might be more comfortable in a sports bra. The safari jeeps bounce and lurch over all sorts of rough and rugged terrain. You will be jostled around as you cruise over the African plains and you’ll thank me later if you’re prepared and wearing the right bra

Another pro tip: it helps if your sun hat has a string so it doesn’t go flying off your head as you speed along the African plains!

Quick Guide For Safari Packing:

• Comfortable pants
• A tank top for layering
• A water resistant jacket
• Warm socks
• Waterproof Shoes
• Gloves
• Sports Bra for ladies
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat with a string
• Day bag
• Binoculars
• Travel journal to record your experience

Tops

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Bottoms

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Lightweight Shorts

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Safari Accessories

Sunscreen

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Travel Scarf

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Sports Bra

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Layers for the winter months

Safari Gloves

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Sorel Boots

My favorite water proof boots!

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Jumpsuits

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Summer Jumpsuit

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Tan Jumpsuit

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Swimwear for the pool

Sunglasses

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Animal Print Suit

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White Lace Kimono

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Tips for your first safari

Prepare for early mornings, that’s when the magic happens! You can take a mid-afternoon nap between drives, just like the wildlife! The rooms at Gondwana Game Reserve have incredibly comfortable beds and fireplaces. If you’ve just finished a cold, early morning game drive, you can head back into your cabin to light a fire and crawl under the covers! It’s the best feeling in the world after an adventurous morning

Most morning game drives begin at 5am or 6am.
Evening drives usually begin at 4pm.

The animals are most active during these hours. Plus the early morning hours provide fantastic light so your photos will turn out great! And taking photos of the wildlife at golden hour is equally as ideal. On top of all that, you’ll get to see the sunrise and sunset everyday! So long story short, don’t forget to set that alarm

Dress in layers. The weather will vary greatly depending on the season. But while we were there in November, we had hot sunny afternoons and freezing cold mornings in the rain. Gondwana Game Reserve has rain ponchos but having things like gloves and waterproof shoes were a big help!

Takes lots of pictures but be sure to set down the camera and just appreciate the magic! If you plan to stay 2 nights, you can get in anywhere from 4-6 safaris. (Possibly one the evening you arrive then 2 per day and one in the morning before you go!) I would pick one safari where you plan to mostly just observe. Of course, have your camera ready if the most incredible photo presents itself. But it’s worth savoring the experience not through a lens. Especially if you are traveling with another person, set down the camera and marvel at what’s going on around you together. You’ll come back home having shared some unforgettable memories!

Camera Gear For Your First Safari

With all the jostling and bouncing as your safari jeep speeds along, you probably won’t be switching your lenses back and forth. Not only is it inconvenient but the inevitable safari dust that gets everywhere can easily get caught inside your camera.

So I’ve found it’s easiest if you just avoid switching your lenses. Sticking with a zoom lens is a great bet for a safari!

I also recommend traveling with a LensPen so you can easily clean your camera when it does inevitably get dirty out on safari.

Zoom Lens

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LensPen

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More on South Africa: South Africa: Your Next Bucket List Destination & Big 5 African Safari- 7 Things to Know Before You Go

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Shop my African safari Amazon storefront here.
It includes a lot of the clothing I personally pack for going on safari!

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The post A Complete Guide to South Africa’s Luxury Safari Park: Gondwana Game Reserve appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

South Africa

After two years of non-stop travel, people frequently ask me, “What’s your favorite place you’ve been?” And while I generally find picking favorites difficult (I mean, you’re only gonna let me pick one?) South Africa is one destination that immediately jumps to the top of my list.

Dreamy coast lines, Big 5 safari adventures and beaches filled with penguins should have this destination leaping to the top of your travel bucket list!

So in no particular order, here’s why South Africa should move to the top of your bucket list.

1. Stunning Hikes

South Africa is full of hiking trails for all levels and abilities. And the summits certainly show off the beauty of this country!

Be sure you include a sunrise hike up Lion’s Head on your Cape Town itinerary.

Catch the sun rising slowly and the mist pouring over Table Top Mountain for some unbeatable views.

The hike is relatively easy- although the final summit does involve steep rocks with chains and ladders! (A longer and less steep alternative to the top does exist!)

Great resource: Hiking South Africa

2. Gorgeous coastal views

I don’t have to write much, the pictures speak for themselves!

Turquoise waters and blue skies make South Africa one of the most scenic places I’ve traveled.

Pack a lunch and soak up these breathtaking views. The scenery alone makes the long haul flight worth it. I think we can all agree- something about mountains next to the ocean is just an ideal combination.

Mountains + Oceans = My Favorite Destinations

Helicopter over Cape Town

If you really want to fully appreciate the amazing views, take a helicopter ride over Cape Town- you will not be disappointed!

Even a brief 15 minute flight offers breathtaking views of Africa’s southern tip. There are a number of qualified companies offering different length rides.

3. Action packed Big 5 safaris

If you’ve never been to Africa before you are in for such a treat. Lions, elephants, giraffe, zebra, hippos – all await to be be discovered in their natural habitat by you.

The thrill of discovery, the suspense…. not knowing what animals you will see next or what situation you will find them in is all part of what makes a safari so magical! The pure joy of surprise and discovery mixed in with a little bit of awe and wonder

We saw baby elephants and hippos waddling across the plains. Our villas were surrounded by a herd (aka a “dazzle”) of zebras. And we got stuck in more than one traffic jam with a bunch of lazy, un-moving giraffes. It. Was. Glorious.

Read: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA’S GONDWANA GAME RESERVE – WHAT TO PACK & EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW!

Read: BIG 5 AFRICAN SAFARI- 7 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

4. Penguin beaches

Yes, you read that correctly. There is a beach in South Africa where you can sun bath with a penguin colony. If that’s not enough reason to go hop on a plane right now, I don’t know what is.

Toss on your swimsuit and get up close and personal with these little guys at Boulders Beach. They are everywhere- swimming in the water, tanning in the sand and hopping around the rocks. HOW CUTE!

Read: SUNBATHING WITH THE PENGUINS AT BOULDER BEACH

5. Wine Country

After the adventure of a safari and the energy exerted from hiking- time to relax at Boschendal Winery.

Go for wine tours, sample the delicious array of locally made wines, dine at a number of restaurants on site, ride horses through the vineyards and go for a picnic on the grassy lawns.

I highly recommend staying at the Boschendal Cottages. Picturesque, charming and quaint- these cottages are the perfect place to unwind!

6. Excellent Weather All Year Long

South Africa is a year- round travel destination. Sunny days with hot, dry summers and great seasonal wildlife opportunities like whale watching.

Safaris can be quite chilly in the morning but if you pack the right clothing, it feels lovely and refreshing! (Just be prepared!) The one day it rained we were treated to this stunning double rainbow- definitely worth some showers!

7. Picturesque beaches

South Africa certainly has no shortage of beaches. Endless blog posts exist online ranking which of SA’s beaches are the best- we could spend all day debating (there really are so many!) but in short, if you want to see penguins go to Boulder Beach.

And if you want to see fun, playful beach huts- head to Muizenberg Beach.

The Muizenberg Beach Huts 

8. Great Nightlife

When people think “Africa” many inaccurate stereotypes come to mind. They don’t often think of the nightlife in Cape Town, the yachts in the harbor or luxury apartments lining the coast.

Well let me tell you, Africa is full of contradictions (like any destination!) and has just as good of nightlife as anywhere else in the world.

Looking for a great spot to go in Cape Town? Check out The Village Idiot!

9. Charming neighborhoods

If you like colorful and quaint (yet vibrant!) places- be sure to check out Bo-Kaap – the oldest surviving residential neighborhood in Cape Town.

Great lunch spots, rooftops drinks and chic boutiques of locally made clothing fill the neighborhood.

And yes, people really do live in these wonderfully colorful homes!

Shop My Travel Look:

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Read more on Africa:

• BIG 5 AFRICAN SAFARI- 7 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
• SUNBATHING WITH THE PENGUINS AT BOULDER BEACH
• A COMPLETE GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA’S GONDWANA GAME RESERVE – WHAT TO PACK & EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW!

Interested in booking a trip to Africa? Check out the deals on TourRadar.

The post 9 Reasons South Africa Should Jump To The Top Of Your Bucket List appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

An African Safari is a bucket list experience for many people! And rightfully so.

Nothing quite compares to being surrounded by a herd of elephants roaming free in the wild.  Or finding the path to your villa blocked by a dazzle of zebras!

Get ready to make incredible memories and capture some of your best travel photos yet.

Here’s 7 things to keep in mind before you go… 

1. Be Prepared For All Kinds of Weather

Pack your sunscreen, umbrellas, mittens, rain ponchos, scarves, warm layers… you name it!

Afternoons are obviously quite hot in Africa. But most game drives happen in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. Because that’s when the animals are the most active. They don’t want to fry in the hot sun either! And early mornings and evenings can get surprisingly cold, especially in South Africa.

So dress in layers. 

You’ll most likely be driving for hours in a Jeep with no roof. We got caught in some serious rain.  So be prepared. The game drives won’t be fun if you’re freezing cold.

The reserve provided us with ponchos but gloves, hats and a very warm coat made all the difference! 

2. Expect Early Mornings

Most game drives begin at 5am or 6am.

So set your alarm! Typically breakfast is served around 10am after your morning drive.

The evening drives usually start around 4pm. 

The animals are most active in the morning and at night. And the lighting is the best during these hours anyway. So your photos will turn out great! Photographing the wildlife at golden hour is a real treat.

And you’ll get to see sunrise and sunset each day! 

3. Invest in a Zoom Lens 

An African Safari is the perfect time to up your photography game! 

Rare sightings

Some animals are difficult to spot and you may only catch them at a distance. It’s worthwhile to come prepared with the right gear. 

I shot with my Canon 80D and the zoom lens that came in this kit.

I also love to travel with a LensPen to easily clean the inevitable dust that will collect on the lens during a safari!

Zoom Lens

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LensPen

Keep your camera lens free from dirt, dust and sand while traveling!

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My Camera

Canon 80D

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4. Spend the Night on the Reserve

Most safari locations offer day trips. You can spend the night elsewhere and just show up for the safari drives. But if you do that, you’ll miss out on half the fun!

Whether you’d rather rough it by camping or treat yourself to a villa stay- the safari parks have a lot to offer besides just the game drives. 

Luxury Villas

If a villa is more your style, you can unwind after a chilly morning drive with a cup of coffee in your heated bed…  Read a book by the fireplace.  And be sure to check out the incredibly scenic view from your balcony. Keep your eyes peeled for animals!

Read: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA’S GONDWANA GAME RESERVE – WHAT TO PACK & EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW!

Some parks offer camping

If camping is more your style, get ready to hear the sounds of Africa lull you to sleep. A hyena laughing. A lion roaring. 

5. Dress in Neutrals 

When trying to spot wildlife, it’s best to blend in as much as possible.

Leave your loud colored clothing with busy prints at home! Think khaki, green, brown and olive. White will show the dust and dirt quickly.

Shop before you go

Ladies, if you’re looking for some new safari clothes- Amazon sells a number of cute and affordable rompers I wore during my time at Gondwana Game Reserve. You can shop the one pictured below here.

But I also loved this brown pantsuit. It was great for layering!

6. Protect Your Gear

As mentioned before, the weather can be all over the place. And you want to make sure your gear is protected! Especially your camera. 

I suggest investing in a quality camera bag. My personal favorite is from Amazon. It is made of durable, water-repellent canvas.  And it comes with  an extra rain cover for added protection! You can shop it here.

7. Take Pictures But Don’t Forget To Simply Enjoy Your Surroundings

It’s not everyday we get to go on a safari. And while capturing images of Africa is highly rewarding for any photographer, be sure to set down the camera and really soak in the experience from time to time. 

Double rainbows, beautiful sunsets, dazzling sunrises and unforgettable landscapes are just a fraction of what awaits you.

It’s easy to get caught up behind your gear. But don’t let it distract you from the magic happening right before your eyes.

Planning a trip to South Africa? Be sure to stop at Boulder Beach to swim with the penguins!

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The post Big 5 African Safari- 7 Things to Know Before You Go appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Sunbathing with the Penguins at Boulder Beach

Try to picture the cutest thing you possibly can….It’s probably still not as cute as a penguin relaxing on the beach.  A tiny penguin sitting right beside you with it’s little eyes closed and head happily tilted towards the sun as it sleeps.

Now imagine they are everywhere! In the water, on the rocks, waddling through the sand….

It’s about as wonderful as anything could ever be.

Welcome to Boulder Beach in South Africa!

The warm, sunny home of the African Penguins.

Penguins galore!

At Boulder Beach, you can swim in the water with the penguins, lay on the beach beside them, crawl around on the rocks looking for their hideouts or walk along the boardwalks to observe the large colonies!

Bring a picnic, sunscreen and a camera because these little guys are NOT shy! Nor are they afraid of humans.  They will sit remarkably close to you and absolutely “work it” in front of the camera, ha! Get ready to take some epic photos!!

But be careful not to touch or grab them- they’ve been known to bite people when they feel threatened!

Looking for more information or a guide while you’re there? Be sure to check out the Boulders Visitors Center!

Conservation Efforts

Unfortunately, due to commercial fishing, marine pollution and habitat deconstruction these cute little guys were almost driven to extinction in the 80’s.  It was estimated that there were approximately one-and-a-half million African Penguins back in 1910 but only one century later, these little penguins wound up on the endangered species list.  And by 1982 there were sadly just two breeding pairs left anywhere in the world….Great news though!

Due to the dedicated conservation efforts, the Boulder colony is now over 3,000 happy aquatic birds! How incredible is that?! 

Penguin Season- when is the best time to go?

If possible, go during the summer! That’s when you can witness the most penguin activity. There will be more birds bustling about so it’s easier to have interactions with them or snap great photos! But no matter what time of year you go, there will be plenty of penguins.

The birds go feed at sea during September and October so there will be less birds onshore then. (Again, still plenty!)  And if you go in January, you can see the young birds molting on the beach!

Pro tip: The penguins are out and about the most during early morning and late afternoon.

If you go…

The beach is located in the Cape Peninsula, near Simon’s Town towards Cape Point South Africa- just a two hour drive away from Cape Town.

Definitely worth the trip because this is a beach day like no other!

When you arrive, there is plenty of parking before walking down to the beach. There is a small conservation fee charged to enter the penguin habitat. Adults pay R76 per day and children pay R41 per day.

I suggest bringing a picnic- otherwise there is are excellent restaurants near the beach!

Overall, a beach day with a penguin colony is an unforgettable experience!

Read more on Africa:

• A Complete Guide to South Africa’s Gondwana Game Reserve – What to Pack & Everything You Need To Know!
• BIG 5 AFRICAN SAFARI- 7 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
• SOUTH AFRICA: YOUR NEXT BUCKET LIST DESTINATION

Shop My Boulder Beach Essentials:

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Interested in booking a trip to Africa? Check out the deals on TourRadar.

The post Sunbathing with the Penguins at Boulder Beach appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.