Day 4: Our First Big 5 Sighting – White Rhino Magic & A Night Under the Stars
A Change in Plans... and an Amazing Plan B!
Today kicked off with breakfast served bright and early between 05:30–06:00 before heading out on what was supposed to be our first Big 5 safari at Welgevonden Game Reserve. Unfortunately, due to recent heavy rains and flooding, our visit was cancelled.
But hats off to the Sebatana team—they quickly arranged an incredible Plan B with a game drive at Ka’ingo Game Reserve.
📍 Note from Welgevonden's website: “Over the past months, Welgevonden Game Reserve received record rainfall, which prompted a temporary closure. The reserve officially reopened on April 1st, 2025, and is once again welcoming guests to experience the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife of the Waterberg region.”
Welcome to Ka’ingo Game Reserve
Just after 6am, we set out for Ka’ingo, a breathtaking game reserve spanning 41,000 acres of bushveld savannah, valleys, rivers, and striking mountain landscapes. The Mokolo River winds through the terrain, supporting more than 50 species of mammals and over 250 species of birds. It’s a haven for biodiversity and truly captures the spirit of wild South Africa.
As we explored the reserve, we spotted our first Big 5 animal—the magnificent white rhino!
These gentle giants are known for their square lips, which help them graze on grasses. Unlike their name suggests, they’re not actually white—the term "white" is a mistranslation of the Afrikaans word “wijde,” meaning wide, referring to their broad mouths.
We saw three rhinos tucked behind some thick bush, so photos were tricky, but seeing them in their natural habitat was unforgettable.
In Search of Lions and Elephants
Our guide spotted fresh elephant dung and lion paw prints—my heart skipped a beat! Lions are my absolute must-seesafari animal, but luck wasn’t on our side this morning. Still, our driver went above and beyond, tracking tirelessly to try and find them.
Even without seeing them, the thrill of knowing they were nearby was amazing.
Scenic Stop at Witfontein
Midway through the drive, we took a break in a safe area where we could stretch our legs and walk up to a stunning viewpoint over Witfontein. The scenery was gorgeous—endless African horizon, crisp morning air, and the perfect spot for some drinks and nibbles provided by our guides.
Back to the Lodge
After a morning filled with wildlife and adventure, we returned to Elephant Lodge for some chill time and another delicious buffet lunch. As always, the food didn’t disappoint.
Optional Extra: Night Safari & Bush Dinner 🌙🔥
Tonight, we signed up for one of the trip’s optional highlights—the Night Safari and Bush Dinner, and it was nothing short of magical.
At 7:30pm, our guides picked us up and drove us deep into the bush to the Night Safari Boma. The setting was stunning—tables arranged in a U-shape, lit only by firelight and stars above. We were welcomed with a glass of wine and seated for a cosy 3-course dinner.
Dinner Menu:
Starter: Creamy vegetable soup with a warm bread roll—perfectly seasoned and just the right temperature.
Main Course (served buffet-style):
Wildebeest (served by the chef)
Hasselback-style potato with sour cream
Mixed veg and salad
Dessert: Sticky date pudding with a rich sauce (alcohol optional—if you’re like me and prefer it without, it’s just as tasty!)
Wine was generously served throughout, and the atmosphere was warm, communal, and so unique.
Night Drive in Search of the Leopard
After dinner, it was time for our night safari. Did you know leopards are nocturnal? I didn’t! With our guide’s huge spotlight scanning the bush, we set off through the reserve in search of nighttime wildlife.
We didn’t spot any big cats tonight, but it was such a fun and thrilling experience to be out in the dark, listening to the sounds of nature and feeling fully immersed in the wilderness.
Another incredible day in South Africa—one Big 5 animal down and so many beautiful moments shared.
Until next time—keep dreaming big, traveling far, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
See you soon!
Sarah x