🐘 South African Safari Itinerary & Optional Experiences
An overview of our unforgettable adventure with Sebatana Private Reserve
Day 1 – Departure from London Heathrow
We began our journey with an overnight flight from London Heathrow to Johannesburg, departing at 10:30 PM. Excitement levels: sky high!
Day 2 – Arrival in South Africa & Transfer to the Lodge
Upon arrival in Johannesburg, we were transferred to the Sebatana Private Reserve. This marked our first day at the lodge and the beginning of our African adventure.
Day 3 – Wildlife Talk & First Game Drive
After breakfast, we met with our guides for a wildlife talk, where we learned about the week ahead, the local species, and optional excursions.
Later, we set out on our first game drive around Sebatana Private Reserve, spotting giraffes and crocodiles—an unforgettable introduction to the wild.
Day 4 – Change of Plans & Optional Night Safari with Bush Dinner
Originally, we were meant to visit Welgevonden Game Reserve, but due to flooding, the team at Sebatana arranged an alternate game drive at Ka’ingo—a brilliant Plan B.
🌙 Optional Extra:
That evening, we joined the Night Safari & Bush Dinner—a magical experience.
We dined under the stars at the Night Safari Boma, enjoying a 3-course meal by firelight. After dinner, we embarked on a night drive, using spotlights to catch glimpses of nocturnal wildlife. The atmosphere was electric.
Day 5 – Walking Trails & Tribal Evening
This was a more relaxed day, starting with an optional guided walking trail. You could choose between a shorter (1.5 hours) or longer (3 hours) route—both flat and non-strenuous.
🌍 Optional Extra:
In the evening, we attended the Tribal Night Experience at the Chief’s Boma. This was a moving and cultural evening filled with food, music, dance, and tradition.
We got a deeper understanding of how the indigenous people once lived, their customs, and their resilience through colonialism. A powerful and joyous evening.
Day 6 – Full-Day Pilanesberg Safari
Another optional extra, and one of the highlights: a full-day tour to Pilanesberg National Park—around 3 hours from Sebatana.
🦁 The Big 5 Quest:
After a packed breakfast and drive, we arrived and boarded our safari vehicles with new guides. We managed to see 4 out of the Big 5—incredible!
On the way back, we stopped for a bite that reminded me of TGI Fridays. Once at the lodge, we were greeted with refreshing towels—well deserved after a big day out.
Day 7 – Champagne Brunch, Games & Shots (Sort Of)
Early breakfast, then off on another game drive. Midway, our guides surprised us with a fun competition (no spoilers here—we didn’t win but had a blast).
🥂 We ended with a champagne brunch at a scenic lookout in the savannah. Stunning.
In the afternoon, we visited Christina’s Wallow on another game drive.
That evening? Guide’s Cocktails—which are actually shots. More on that in my detailed Day 7 post. 😉
Day 8 – Final Game Drive & Sunset Rock
Our last full day included an optional game drive to Ka’ingo Reserve again. While it says it's 3 hours away, our amazing driver made it longer—in the best way—by helping us spot the final Big 5 animal we hadn't seen yet. A truly unforgettable moment.
Later, we visited Sunset Rock, complete with champagne, snacks, and a game. It was the perfect place for group photos, guide selfies, and soaking in the last sunset together.
Back at the lodge, we joined the Manager’s Farewell Dinner, where we shared gratitude with the amazing Sebatana team.
Day 9 – Home Time
I won’t lie—I was heartbroken the trip was ending. After breakfast and checking out, we were due to visit the Apartheid Museum, but sadly, this didn’t happen. So, it was straight to the airport for our 8:30 PM flight.
Day 10 – Back in London
We landed back at London Heathrow—one of the first flights to arrive that morning. Tired, happy, and already dreaming of the next adventure.
🧭 Optional Extras Summary
Here’s a quick glance at the additional experiences offered during the trip:
Night Safari & Bush Dinner (Day 4)
Tribal Evening at Chief’s Boma (Day 5)
Pilanesberg National Park Full-Day Tour (Day 6)
Ka’ingo Game Reserve (Day 8)
Until next time—keep dreaming big, traveling far, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
See you soon!
Sarah x