My adventure was hosted by Natural World Safaris (NWS) and it was an adventure of a lifetime! NWS are wildlife specialists, delivering the most immersive luxurious experiences available in the natural world. Their specialty is creating wildlife experiences normally reserved for the likes of National Geographic or documentary makers.
They take care of every aspect of your journey; from airfare to travel documents to recommendations and beyond. They take the time to get to know your desires and how they can make the experience bespoke to your expectations.
Upon landing in Cape town, I checked into The Silo Hotel. The hotel is simply spectacular! This 28-room hotel is the result of the conversion of a historic grain silo. They did an amazing job. The décor, art and views are unique and highly impressive.
The owner decorated the hotel and I’m in awe of her talent. Each room is distinctive with its own color scheme and design. The hotel sits above the Zeit Museum which is the home to the largest contemporary art collection in the country. The hotel reflects the collection throughout the rooms, bar, restaurants and common space.
Each room has an open airy vibrant feel. The rooms don walls of windows in an architectural style that is a artwork in it of itself.
The staff is exceptional catering to your every need. A wonderful example of this is when I requested the gym be open at 6 am. The standard opening time was 8 am. Not to worry as they opened it at 5:30 and everything was ready for me when I arrived at 6 am. Those small details make all the difference when traveling.
The Granary Café was the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner or an afternoon snack. Head up to the rooftop for an afternoon cocktail and view of the Harbor.
The hotel is in a great location, walkable to many attractions and V & A Waterfront.
If you enjoy fun activities, book a motorcycle tour of Cape town. Each motorbike is equipment with a side-car and room for a second passenger behind the driver. It is a delightful way to see areas of the city while having fun.
Day two began with a trip to Table Mountain. Seeing the mountain from my room at The Silo Hotel made me anxious to get to the top. A quick drive gets you to the entrance. You then take a cable car to the top of the mountain. There was no line upon arrival but I recommend going early to avoid crowds.
I was informed if it gets too windy, they shut down. Always check before you go to ensure they are open. Bring a jacket with you. It may be warm in town but the temperature changes at the top of the mountain. It can be 10 degrees cooler and with the winds, you may need the extra layer. I also recommend wearing sneakers. There is a path but you also walk over rocks.
Standing overlooking the bay and city, makes you feel like you are on top of the world. You can walk along the path that takes you on all sides of the mountain. This can take 1 ½ – 2 hours depending on your pace. There are many spots for optimal photo opportunities. You never know who you will meet while wandering around. I was lucky enough to meet a dassie (so cute) and saw some gorgeous birds.
Next stop was the V & A Harbor. It is a wonderfully relaxed way to spend the afternoon. Walking in and out of the shops in the watershed, grabbing a coffee at the V & A Food Market, listening to the music of the performers and just enjoying the culture. There are several restaurants to sit down and enjoy lunch; Den Anker and La Prada to name a few.
If you like adventure, head up to Signal Hill to watch the para-gliders. I didn’t participate but enjoyed watching the others. They strap you in to the “pilot”, lay out the parachute behind you on the mountainside and then 1, 2, 3 off you go! You both begin running toward the edge of the mountain with a helper on your right and left side holding the parachute strings. As you pick up momentum the wind lifts the shoot and you are up, up and away. You then glide down to the waterfront landing on the shore. Be aware, if the winds are too high (over 10 kilometers) they shut down for safety.
If you happen to be on Signal Hill at noon, you will hear a cannon go off. The tradition started in the 1800’s. Ships need to set their nautical instruments and they did so at noon. To ensure accuracy, they needed to be set at the exact stroke of 12. They would fire the cannon to let the ships know the exact moment to set their instruments. They still carry on the tradition today.
Day three started with a scenic drive along the Peninsula. Cape town is known for its beaches you will want to see them. You can start at Boulder Beach then enjoy the townships of Camps Bay, Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay, Kalk-Bay, Paternoster-Fishing Village, Hermanus-Seaside Village, Camps Bay and Bantry Bay just to name a few.
You can stop and walk around the ones that seem inviting to you. Otherwise, just sit back and enjoy the most picturesque drive absorbing the beauty of Cape town.
I recommend hiring Kevin from Jarat Tours. He is very knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating.
We did make some stops along the way; beginning with Boulder Beach. Boulder Beach is home to the penguins and such a fun nature fueled experience. You will be filled with joy viewing the penguins in their natural habitat. They are referred to as “jackass penguins” because of the sound they make. I found myself laughing when I heard them greet me!
You will see mothers and babies nesting, penguins frolicking with each other and some taking a dip in the sea. They are used to humans so some even pose. There are areas of the beach where you can get up close and personal with them. Be advised, do not try and touch or feed them. They will bite you!
Cape of Good Hope is the most south western point of the African Continent. The national park is enormous. Driving from the entry gate to the point you may see wild ostrich, baboons, tortoise or wild dogs.
The ocean meets the mountains at this famous point and its beauty is mesmerizing. You cannot visit South Africa without seeing it.
There is an option to walk up to the lighthouse……..take it. The walk is steep but the views along the way make it worthwhile. If you enjoy photography, you will be in heaven with the shot options available. Once you reach the lighthouse, bask in the view and splendor of it all. It is nature at its finest.
There are signs posted along the way warning about the baboons. This is their home but they will not hurt you. That is unless you have food. Please don’t eat food out in the open. I witnessed a baboon scratch a man in an attempt to steal the apple he was eating.
My next stop was Ellerman House. The concept of Ellerman House is your home away from home. It rings true in every aspect of your stay. You are greeted at the front door and given a tour of the property. Should you go out, leave your room key at the front entrance (yes, it is an actual key). When you return, simply ring the doorbell and you will be let in!
This 13 room home has several common areas to sit and relax as well as an outdoor veranda for eating, relaxing and enjoying the view. Let’s talk about the view for a moment. Breathtaking, spectacular and awe come to mind. Every room gets to enjoy this beauty.
There are also two villas on site. One is a 5 bedroom and one is a 3 bedroom. It is a wonderful option if traveling with family or a group of friends.
The staff is at your service without imposing. There is a magnificent art collection throughout the home as well as an art gallery on property. I highly recommend the complimentary art tour. There is also a daily wine tasting at 4 pm that includes a tour of the wine cellar. After the tasting make sure to stop by the gin trolley at 5 pm. You can create your drink of choice with the varieties of gin or let the server create one for you. Sitting on the terrace enjoying the sunset is the perfect way to end your evening.
The in-house restaurant is farm to table. Carrying through on the “home” feel is an open kitchen concept. Not just a view of the kitchen but full access to the Chef and cooking staff. Feel free to stop by after dinner and let the team know how much you enjoyed the delicious food.
The Spa at Ellerman house goes above and beyond to be inviting, soothing and capture of feeling of Zen like no other. The wet and dry saunas are a great starting point for your experience. The options for treatments are varied and all with a specific healing in mind.
The quiet area looks out onto an infinity pool and garden with the most beautiful plants. You can hear the ocean in the background which only adds to the experience.
I highly recommend a visit to the spa. I enjoyed the quiet room on days I did not have a treatment!
While the gym is fully equipped at Ellerman House, you can choose a walk or fun on the promenade to get your workout in. It is a beautiful walk along the sea. Ellerman House can drop at a location along the promenade and you can walk back or you can walk down and call for a ride when you wish.
The culture of Cape town fascinated me. If you want to feel like a local, try the full moon picnic. Pack a picnic dinner and hike to the top of Lion’s Head mountain on the evening of a full moon. Once atop the mountain, enjoy your dinner and a glass of wine while watching the sunset.
No need to worry about your walk down the mountain after dark. You will be guided by the full moon. Hundreds of Capetonians enjoy this experience.
Cape town has a variety of excellent restaurants depending on your food preferences. Some of my favorites are The Test Kitchen, The Potluck Club, Den Anker, La Parada and Sevruga.
It was time to continue on in my South African journey. I headed to the Cape Winelands, home to some of the best wines in the world. My winelands exploration includes visits to Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. These are three of the top wine producing regions in the area. There are over 600 vineyards in this area, so where to stop for a tasting depends on your wine preference.
I visited Spice Route which was beautiful and was also home to a brewery, restaurant, coffee roaster and chocolate tasting! Next stop was Muratie which dated back to the 1600s. It had a rustic traditional feel with an interesting history. Lastly was a visit to Delaire Graff Estate. This estate is modern, opulent and posh. The views from the restaurant terrace are breathtaking. If you stop for lunch during your wine tasting, this is the place to do it.
After a day of vineyard visiting and wine tasting, I end in Franschhoek, a quaint little village nestled between towering mountains in the heart of the Winelands. It is also one of the top culinary destinations in South Africa.
I nestled in at Leeu Estates. Leeu means lion. As you enter the grounds, there are two lion statues to greet you. The grounds were lush and manicured to perfection. The attention to detail in the rooms and throughout the property makes a world of difference. The day felt like fall with the wind and clouds so the team made sure the fireplace was lit in my room upon arrival. The grounds are expansive but fear not, the staff will get you anywhere you would like to go via golf cart.
The spa facilities have a minimalist streamlined décor which instantly soothes you. The quiet room overlooks the pool and grounds and is enhanced by a fireplace. I loved the gym not only for the equipment but for the view of the estate you enjoy while working out.
Leeu Estates is vast and secluded which makes is all the more enjoyable.
On to Safari………
From Cape town to Kruger was a quick two-hour flight. My journey then took me to Sabi Sands in Kruger National Park; arriving at Singita Boulder Lodge. Built into the jungle the boutique lodge is at one with nature. You are greeted by staff that welcomes you with open arms. After freshening up with a eucalyptus wet towel, I was shown the lodge. The extensive wine cellar allows for daily tastings of the guests choosing. We then moved on to the gym and spa which were tucked away along the path to the villas. The Chef and kitchen staff are there to meet your cuisine needs specific to your desires. Throughout my tour I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the beauty of nature and the Bush.
My room, or should I say villa, was stunning. The room layout had an open floor plan that flowed from one room to the next. There are snacks, coffees and teas should you desire them but you won’t need them. The endless supply of delicious fresh food from the kitchen is all you need. You must keep your door and sliders closed or the monkeys will come in. They know exactly where the mini bar is and hope you will slip up so they can steal a treat! In between the living room and bedroom was a dual fireplace which set the tone for a relaxing environment. With indoor and outdoor shower, you have options. No need to worry about showering outdoors. Only the animals can see you.
As Reading was giving me my tour, he was pointing out my pool when I gasped with joy. Beyond my pool in the bush was an elephant roaming. I couldn’t ask for a better welcome to Singita! Seeing animals roaming was common place at the lodge. There is a strict policy you must have someone walk you on property after dark. Just in case you come across an animal.
When I was walking to the lobby to go on my afternoon game drive, I was walking alone. It was still light out. I came across two monkeys in front of me on the walking path. I said hello and watched as they played. Suddenly, I felt something grab the back of my leg. I screamed of course! The workers came out and as I turned to see what was grabbing me, they chased a monkey away. I learned the monkeys weren’t afraid of women. Even though I had pants on, they could tell I was a woman. It was pretty funny but also scared the bejeebers out of me.
You can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives at the lodge. You meet at 6 am in the lobby where you can grab a snack and coffee/tea before you head out. Once out in the bush, you see an array of animals. I saw the big 5 my first day which was amazing; Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, Cape Buffalo. I also saw Giraffe, Zebra, Wild Dogs, Impala, Owl, a variety of beautiful birds, Vulture, Wild Bore, Wildebeest and Hyena just to name a few. You never know what you will see on each drive which makes is all the more exciting.
Your vehicle is equipped with a guide who drives and a tracker who sits on the front of the vehicle and looks for animal tracks. It’s very exciting to get up close and personal with the animals; yet at the same time, there is a mutual respect.
The night drives leave at 3:30 pm and have an added bonus of what is called sun-downers. Just before the sun sets, your guide chooses an amazing spot to stop. He/she and the tracker then set up a spread of drinks and snacks. You then relax and enjoy the sunset which is breathtaking.
Now the drives can be three hours or longer if you are looking for a particular animal. We were looking for lions so one of our drives was four hours but totally worth it to see a pack of lions. The guides communicate with each other so you know where a particular animal was spotted.
Because you can be out there for hours, you will need to be prepared to use the Bush as your bathroom. It’s all very civilized. Your guide will choose a secluded spot; usually behind a termite mound, and you then go off and go. You are given a toiletry bag to take with you. It contains toilet paper, small brown bags to put the used toilet paper in and shovel should you have to poop. Luckily, I never needed the shovel! Once back at the vehicle (aka the Rover) there is hand sanitizer. It’s funny how quickly you grow accustomed to that.
When you return to the lodge after the game drive; breakfast is served in the morning and dinner is served in the afternoon. In between game drives you are free to relax, take a nap or visit the spa or gym.
One night during your stay they have a traditional African themed dinner in the BOMA. Tables are set up outside with a fire and you are service traditional African dishes. They also have dancers come out and sing and perform traditional dances. It’s a wonderful way to honor and learn about the cultural. There are 11 official languages spoken in Africa including English. Most people speak Afrikaan, English and Zulu. Singita had a printed card in the room with common phrases (hello/good morning, etc.) and how to say them in different African spoken languages.
From Singita I headed to Thornybush Game Reserve which is a private game reserve near Hoedspruit.
My final stop was Kubili House. Upon arrival, I was met at the gate of the reserve by my guide and tracker; Wayne and Doctor. We then drove through to the House. On our way in, we stopped to see a mom and baby giraffe, two elephants and impala. The impala make me smile every time I see them. They are common to see in the Bush but always seem so happy and playful.
Tina was there to greet me and show me around the house. Kubili means two or twins and was named after the owners twins. Walking the pathway in the entry I stopped in my tracks. I looked out onto a vast watering hole to see elephants grazing. The visual was stunning. Not just the elephants but the way the structure was one with the landscape. The main area is open and vast yet welcoming. Kubili House is a private house with 5 rooms. If you are staying at the house, it is you and your guests; never anyone else. The staff of 14 manage the home, food, service and game drives. This bespoke experience is like nothing else.
You are welcomed like family, never rushed and encouraged to just be. The peace that falls over you the minute you arrive is incredible. The silence is soothing. It is the perfect location as you see a variety of animals at the watering hole throughout the day.
The measure of attention to detail is astounding. From the menu you choose to the schedule you desire to the items in the room, you want for nothing. To say the food was fresh is an understatement. With each meal I had a new appreciation for the Chef and all that went in to making such delectable entrees. The views you enjoyed while dining only enhances the cuisine.
They make their own bath salts with a variety of healing ingredients depending on what you would like. Choose the Kubili Gardenia to calm the mind and comfort the body or the Wild Tobacco rich with herbaceous to bring a calming to the mind and body or any one of the 15 varieties.
The layout and design of each room is exquisite. You will enjoy your private patio and be mesmerized by the view. The first thing I did was light the incense which only added to the peaceful Zen feeling. Should you choose to have a fire, just let them know and they will like the see-through fireplace for you. I recommend having the fire lit and then soaking in a hot bath while looking out on the spectacular view. It doesn’t get much better than that.
My first night, our game drive was beyond expectations. We wanted to see a lion and we did! Not only that but we also saw a buffalo, leopard, zebra, elephants and a rare siting of a leopard tortoise.
The game drive ended with dinner in the Bush. The experience was truly magical. As we pulled up to an open area, the scene was enchanting. A fire with seating around it. Next to the fire area was a carpet on the ground with a dining table and chairs atop. We enjoyed a drink around the fire then moved to have dinner under the stars. You could hear the calls of nature in the distance; the impala calls, elephants roams and birds calling. The food only enhanced the ambiance to make it a charming memorable experience.
I have nothing but respect for the hard work to pull something like this off and make it look effortless.
I had the pleasure of meeting the owners; Julian and Aida and their family. They are caring, down to earth people who want to make a difference in South Africa through the Kubili House. I was touched by their genuine heartfelt mission to make a difference and have a positive impact on the lives of others.
The entire staff at Kubili House is magnificent; Tina, Wayne, Sune, Welcome, Wayne, Doctor, Mavis and all the behind the scenes staff that make your stay an incredible experience. They do whatever it takes to make you feel welcome, happy and at peace. It was a very humbling experience for me. There is such a loving, nurturing energy and vibe throughout your stay.
I couldn’t think of a better way to end my South African journey. Kubili House is truly paradise.
My trip was an amazing adventure. If you are thinking of visiting South Africa, I recommend the last two weeks of May. It is the beginning of their winter so the days are sunny and warm. The evenings can get a bit chilly; around 55-60 degrees. It only rained one day during my trip. The Safari was ideal with less bugs and the Busch not being in full bloom which made it easier to spot the animals.
