Africa has always been a dream destination for me, a place where wildlife roams free, and the landscapes are nothing short of breath-taking. As a special celebration for my daughter’s Year 12 graduation, I organised a family trip to experience the wonders of this incredible continent.

We began our adventure by flying into Victoria Falls Airport, where our journey continued with a drive to Botswana. Our stay at Bakwena Lodge was magical from the moment we arrived. Seeing the open jeeps lined up at the entrance gates felt surreal—it was like stepping into a nature documentary. The lodge staff greeted us warmly and led us to a long table set for lunch in the main area. The view over the Chobe River was simply stunning, and we were even welcomed by a cheeky warthog wandering nearby.

Chobe Bakwena Lodge

Chobe Bakwena Lodge Family Cabin

Chobe Bakwena Lodge Lounge Area

View from the bath at Lukimbi Lodge

Our family cabin was perfect, with separate rooms for the kids and us parents. What struck me the most was the early starts, 530am game drives but every bleary-eyed morning was rewarded. A short 15-minute drive took us to Chobe National Park, and our first sighting, a cheetah that left us awestruck. The thrill of spotting wildlife, pulling out our cameras, and capturing these moments was unparalleled.

Each day included both morning and afternoon game drives, and every outing brought new surprises. From majestic elephants and regal lions to rhinos, hyenas, and playful baboons, each animal encounter felt unique and intimate. One particularly memorable experience was visiting a local school to meet the children. This visit was a reminder to appreciate not just Africa’s incredible wildlife but also its rich culture and the warmth of its people. Their perspective on life and connection to the land was truly inspiring.

After Botswana, we ventured to Victoria Falls, staying at Victoria Falls Safari Suites for two nights. The falls themselves were as magnificent as we had imagined, but crossing into Zambia to visit Devil’s Pool was the highlight of our trip. Standing on the edge of the cascading falls was exhilarating, an experience that will remain etched in my memory forever. Sharing these moments with family and friends made it all the more special.

This trip was more than just a holiday—it was a spiritual journey that deepened our appreciation for life, nature, and the bonds we share. From our youngest, aged 11, to our eldest, aged 18, and us parents, everyone found something to cherish. Along the way, we met extraordinary people whose stories added to the richness of our travels.

Our final stop was the renowned Kruger National Park, where we stayed at Lukimbi Safari Lodge. Saving the best for last, this private reserve delivered unforgettable wildlife encounters. Witnessing a pride of lions with their cubs feasting on a fresh kill was both thrilling and humbling. From our balcony or the lodge’s pool, we watched elephants amble to the nearby creek to drink. The lodge itself, with exceptional service and exquisite food, was a haven of comfort.

Thank you, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa, for the memories of a lifetime. This was not just a trip but an awakening to the beauty of nature, the joy of family, and the resilience of humanity.

Africa, you have my heart.