Group 1
From the moment we arrived at the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, we knew that the next few days were going to be some of the best days of our lives, and our trip did not disappoint. We were privileged to have had incredible guides, Sicelo and Mandla, who made us feel safe and welcome from the moment they picked us up from the airport. Throughout the trip, they enlightened and educated us with their extensive knowledge of the bushveld, interesting facts, stories, and jokes. Our trip wouldn’t have been the same without them.
We were extremely lucky to have seen the wildlife that we did, as it is never guaranteed how much you will see, or if you will even see anything. Seeing 2 juvenile white rhinos on foot was truly a life-changing experience for us. The rhino’s mother had unfortunately been poached a couple of years ago and to see the direct impacts of poaching 20 meters away from us was truly an eye-opening experience. We learnt so much about nature and how resourceful it is, especially when we had to wash our dishes using elephant dung, which surprisingly wasn’t as bad as it sounds. The highlight of our trip was definitely nightwatch. Sitting by yourself at night and tending to the campfire became something we truly enjoyed. We were surrounded by the sounds of wildlife and this was an experience that can’t really be found elsewhere. Although we were a bit nervous at first, you began to adapt to the ways of the bushveld and you truly got to witness the peace and tranquility offered by nature.
We would like to say a special thank you to Mr Haggard, a.k.a Mr Higginson, for making sure we were always enjoying ourselves and for helping out with nightwatch. Your passion for nature truly inspired us all and you created a safe environment where endless memories were made. Overall, Imfolozi was an exceptional and life-changing experience and this just shows a small fraction of the incredible times we had. It is something that you have to experience first-hand to understand how special it is. We are eternally grateful to have had the privilege and opportunity to embark on this unforgettable journey.
Group 2
The iMfolozi Wilderness Trail was nothing less than a fulfilling and unique experience which compelled us to constantly live in the present as well as gave us the power to dictate time and cherish every moment. The trail deepened our connection with nature and reminded us to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
Over the five days in the wilderness, we had an intimate group of 9 members. This included our two knowledgeable guides, Doric and Zondi, who created a space where we were able to get to know each group member personally while sharing special memories, conversations, laughs and adventures.
Some of the most memorable moments of the trail would be watching the elephants feed and walk along the river bank, taking turns on night watch, learning important survival skills and cooking our delicious suppers over the campfire.
We are incredibly grateful to Ms Chambers and Mr Haggard for this wonderful opportunity and for making this trip an unforgettable one!
