During the recent September/October holiday break, 14 Rustenburg learners and two enthusiastic teachers embarked on the iMfolozi Wilderness Trail—an immersive multi-day walking safari in the dedicated wilderness area of KwaZulu-Natal’s Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park.
Several of the learners shared their first-hand accounts of this untamed, raw Big Five bush experience:
“Imfolozi was an outstanding experience where I was taken back and taught to live in the now, rather than be consumed by time and planning. I was reminded of the beauty in the environment and how even the smallest things impact the daily lives of others especially in nature.
Our guides, Njabulo and Zondi, ensured our safety constantly but also taught us all about their culture which was incredibly special. One of the main things I took away was how I learnt to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations and what one may consider a ‘necessity’ in today’s age like a phone or an extensive wardrobe is not really a need.”
Emily Hunt
“My sister went on Imfolozi and has always told me of the incredible views, encounters with wildlife and lifelong connections made along the way. While all of this is completely true, what she could never have conveyed was the spiritual connection and sense of inner peace that came with being in the park. Being given the opportunity to not only see but to engage with and connect with the natural world around me was an unforgettable experience that I am so grateful to have shared with such amazing people.
Thank you to Njabulo and Zondi for showing us the way in more ways than one, and thank you to the school for providing me with the chance to learn to be still and appreciate what I have right here in the now.”
Isla Morrow
“The trail not only gave me a chance to spend time in nature and get to know amazing people but it also gave me the opportunity to reconnect with myself and spend time alone without the distractions of everyday life. Carrying your life on your back for 5 days helps you realise how simply we are able to live. The chats around the fire, the inside jokes, night watch and the lessons taught and joy brought to us by our incredible guides will never be forgotten.”
Philippa du Toit
“Imfolozi was an experience I will never forget. The views and animal sightings were truly beautiful, but what I will always remember from this trip is the feeling you get when you truly get to breathe and just be. This trip taught me so much about myself, perseverance and overcoming my fears.
Our guides and the people in my group became my safe space, we had conversations that went from surprisingly deep to laughing about nothing in the span of a couple of minutes and I will forever be grateful for those memories. Thank you too our guides for keeping us safe and teaching us so much about the world around us. And thank you to Mr Haggard and the school for making this trip happen.’
Georgia Gibbon