Summary
A Journey Back to Singita Lebombo Lodge
A travel writer ventures back to South Africa’s Singita Lebombo Lodge in Kruger National Park, a place where her late father enjoyed a safari two decades earlier.
“You know the phrase ‘to take someone’s breath away’? Well that’s how you’ll feel on a safari. You will be so amazed that you literally, and I mean literally, won’t be able to breathe,” my dad used to say as he elaborated on the upcoming adventure.
In fall 2019, my dad excitedly shared that their family had chosen a South African safari for our next family vacation. The anticipation grew as we planned four nights for summer 2020 at the same luxury lodge where my dad had stayed nearly 20 years ago. Unfortunately, the pandemic thwarted our plans, and then devastatingly, my dad was diagnosed with aggressive cancer and passed away in 2021.
After a long period of hesitation and grief, my family ultimately decided to honor my father’s love of adventure by embarking on our safari in summer 2022. This journey became a poignant tribute to him as we arrived in South Africa, ready to immerse ourselves in the culture, stunning landscapes, and wildlife, even amidst our sorrow.
Experiencing Rich Wildlife
Nestled on a private 33,000 acres within Kruger National Park, Singita Lebombo Lodge offers a unique, luxurious safari experience with breathtaking accommodations, tailored game drives, and exquisite cuisine. The modern lodge, perched on a cliff, features open spaces and suites inspired by nature, equipped with both indoor and outdoor showers, cozy fireplaces, and stunning views of the N’wanetsi River.
After settling into our two-bedroom suite, we met our guide Bernard Stiglingh and tracker Sunday Ndlovu. Their expertise brought us confidence as we set off on our first game drive. The excitement peaked when Stiglingh received word of leopard cubs in the area, leading us on a thrilling quest to witness them.
Watching the playful cubs interact was mesmerizing. As they chased each other around and approached our vehicle, I couldn’t contain my excitement, reflecting in my father’s anticipation of this encounter.
Our wildlife sightings grew more impressive each day, culminating in spectacular views of the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinoceros, and buffalo, alongside other incredible animals like giraffes, zebras, and hippos.
Unforgettable Family Moments
The bond we shared deepened during afternoon sundowner moments, where we toasted to my dad, acknowledging his presence in spirit, even in his absence. Dining experiences such as the traditional Boma dinner offered both culinary delight and heartfelt family time.
Each day brought new adventures, from enriching interactions with knowledgeable guides to discovering the intricacies of the savannah ecosystem. We learned that wildlife encounters are not just about spotting animals; they also encompass the sensory experiences of sounds and smells within the park.
In the heart of Kruger Park, we found diverse activities to enjoy together and alone, ensuring the perfect balance between family time and personal relaxation. Our final day was extraordinary, featuring a masterclass in tracking from Ndlovu, leading us to a fierce pride of lions devouring a Cape buffalo.
Concluding our journey, my sister and I experienced an exhilarating walking safari. The vivid moments shared during this remarkable trip created cherished memories, solidifying our connection as a family. We departed South Africa with a renewed spirit, knowing we had honored my father’s adventurous soul and created lasting memories amidst extraordinary wildlife.
