We couldn't wait for this trip to happen!!! 2016 so far was one of these sucking-all-the-energy-out-of-you year. We really needed a break.
Matthew was sending nearly daily a screenshot of his counting app...60, 30, 10 and then it finally was the day to start our South Africa adventure. What a coincidence that it fell right on our 3rd wedding anniversary.
Going to a country like this you feel like going into the unknown. The word DANGER is so present. You did wonder how much would you even be able to enjoy? But there is also the beauty. The amazing country knowing for stunning nature and wildlife.
With this in mind, we decided the first time to book a tour with a group. Trust us, we are not big fans of it, but having only 2 weeks and going from Cape Town to Kruger National Park is a lot of driving. With a qualified tour-guide you just felt safer.
Booking with Travel Department seemed like a great choice. They have groups of around 40 people. If you really want, all you do together is mostly the driving. You have been given enough time to explore every destination and there is no obligation to stick with the group.
It sounds like we defending ourselves, but lets be honest, South Africa is a country like Australia. You need time and while we had back then 2 years to explore the outback we didn't have that time now. Just saying this upfront before everyone is reading about our first meet and greet with the group.
We couldn't wait for this trip to happen!!! 2016 so far was one of these sucking-all-the-energy-out-of-you year. We really needed a break.
Matthew was sending nearly daily a screenshot of his counting app...60, 30, 10 and then it finally was the day to start our South Africa adventure. What a coincidence that it fell right on our 3rd wedding anniversary.
Going to a country like this you feel like going into the unknown. The word DANGER is so present. You did wonder how much would you even be able to enjoy? But there is also the beauty. The amazing country knowing for stunning nature and wildlife.
With this in mind, we decided the first time to book a tour with a group. Trust us, we are not big fans of it, but having only 2 weeks and going from Cape Town to Kruger National Park is a lot of driving. With a qualified tour-guide you just felt safer.
Booking with Travel Department seemed like a great choice. They have groups of around 40 people. If you really want, all you do together is mostly the driving. You have been given enough time to explore every destination and there is no obligation to stick with the group.
It sounds like we defending ourselves, but lets be honest, South Africa is a country like Australia. You need time and while we had back then 2 years to explore the outback we didn't have that time now. Just saying this upfront before everyone is reading about our first meet and greet with the group.
Our South Africa Adventure begins:
The flight was around midday so enough time to get ready and enjoy cocktails at the airport. The thoughts of being stuck in a plane from Dublin to Dubai over 7 hrs and Dubai to Cape Town over 9 hrs put the holiday mood still on hold.
Boarding Emirates was a little depressing. They let you walk by the business class until you reach your second class area. We kept thinking ONE DAY THAT WILL BE US, ONE DAY!!!
Flying is always the same struggle. It is kind of being strapped into a hospital bed. You won't get any sleep. Wait ages for food or zap through all the movies not finding anything. Let us tell you, they aren't making it easy for you. First of all the air-con blows non-stop. Even the blanket makes it impossible to keep you warm for a snooze. The hours between the meals are way too long and the movie selection has been horrible.
For our next long distance flight we will have a tablet with our own movies, warm comfortable clothes and enough snacks.
Around midnight we finally landed in Dubai. 30 degree blowing in our faces. It felt so weird such high temperature in the middle of the night. Our eyes were burning. We didn't sleep a second and were dying for a bed.
The airport was massive. You walk ages to your gate. Our fear was to starve as the connecting flight was overnight and they wouldn't serve food until morning. A burger was the first thing in our mind. With the little time we rushed through the whole terminal straight to McDonald's and ate like we haven't eaten for a very long time.
With this sorted and our tummies all happy, we boarded for another long flight to our destination. They switched off the light most of the time and the ceiling was like a sky full of stars. Unfortunately, it didn't help to find any sleep.
Around lunchtime we finally spotted Cape Town with the table mountain and lion's head. Suddenly we felt awake and excited, ready for our South Africa adventure.
We met our travel group and excepted the majority would be slightly older than us. Well they all were but it couldn't have been a better group. These were people like us, who have seen the world and had stories to tell. They loved gossip and drinking even more than we did and made us laugh so much.
The flight was around midday so enough time to get ready and enjoy cocktails at the airport. The thoughts of being stuck in a plane from Dublin to Dubai over 7 hrs and Dubai to Cape Town over 9 hrs put the holiday mood still on hold.
Boarding Emirates was a little depressing. They let you walk by the business class until you reach your second class area. We kept thinking ONE DAY THAT WILL BE US, ONE DAY!!!
Flying is always the same struggle. It is kind of being strapped into a hospital bed. You won't get any sleep. Wait ages for food or zap through all the movies not finding anything. Let us tell you, they aren't making it easy for you. First of all the air-con blows non-stop. Even the blanket makes it impossible to keep you warm for a snooze. The hours between the meals are way too long and the movie selection has been horrible.
For our next long distance flight we will have a tablet with our own movies, warm comfortable clothes and enough snacks.
Around midnight we finally landed in Dubai. 30 degree blowing in our faces. It felt so weird such high temperature in the middle of the night. Our eyes were burning. We didn't sleep a second and were dying for a bed.
The airport was massive. You walk ages to your gate. Our fear was to starve as the connecting flight was overnight and they wouldn't serve food until morning. A burger was the first thing in our mind. With the little time we rushed through the whole terminal straight to McDonald's and ate like we haven't eaten for a very long time.
With this sorted and our tummies all happy, we boarded for another long flight to our destination. They switched off the light most of the time and the ceiling was like a sky full of stars. Unfortunately, it didn't help to find any sleep.
Around lunchtime we finally spotted Cape Town with the table mountain and lion's head. Suddenly we felt awake and excited, ready for our South Africa adventure.
We met our travel group and excepted the majority would be slightly older than us. Well they all were but it couldn't have been a better group. These were people like us, who have seen the world and had stories to tell. They loved gossip and drinking even more than we did and made us laugh so much.
Day 1 - Table Mountain
Not much time to rest, our tour-guide Paul a 70 something English guy who grew up in South Africa and had the first stage of dementia brought us straight to the top of table mountain.
We also learned rule number one: ONLY BRING WITH YOU, WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOOSE. Well, if you keep this in mind you fine. Of course you still hope not to get robbed but if you ever come into that situation, you give what you have and wish for the best.
A cable car with rotating 360 degree platform brings you to the top and from there you have lots of tracks all around it. The view was just spectacular and we forgot the fact that we haven't had any sleep since the last 24 hrs. There is also the option to climb up or even skip it and go on top of lion's head instead, which is a better secret spot, so we heard.
Despite all the impressions the sleepiness hit us again and we were looking forward checking into the hotel Radisson Blu Le Vendome
We managed a little walk later and ended up in a local bar for a few drinks before we finished the day.
Not much time to rest, our tour-guide Paul a 70 something English guy who grew up in South Africa and had the first stage of dementia brought us straight to the top of table mountain.
We also learned rule number one: ONLY BRING WITH YOU, WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOOSE. Well, if you keep this in mind you fine. Of course you still hope not to get robbed but if you ever come into that situation, you give what you have and wish for the best.
A cable car with rotating 360 degree platform brings you to the top and from there you have lots of tracks all around it. The view was just spectacular and we forgot the fact that we haven't had any sleep since the last 24 hrs. There is also the option to climb up or even skip it and go on top of lion's head instead, which is a better secret spot, so we heard.
Despite all the impressions the sleepiness hit us again and we were looking forward checking into the hotel Radisson Blu Le Vendome
We managed a little walk later and ended up in a local bar for a few drinks before we finished the day.
Day 2 - Vineyards
Our first night was disturbed by the hotel alarm. Not sure why, but our first reaction was IGNORE, JUST A TEST. While others thought it might be a terror attack. We had too many alarms in our life and never take them seriously anymore. Which is probably not a good thing. We stayed in our bed, but got a little worried when we heard people outside talking. Thank god there was an announcement shortly after FALSE ALARM. It turned out the kitchen staff triggered the alarm when they opened the oven doors.
Off we went to some wine tasting. Starting with the famous Nederburg which was around one hour drive from Cape Town. We enjoyed just sitting down and watching the scenery, which was so different. There was the busy city. The heavy traffic on the highway starts already from 5:30 am and we thought M50 Dublin is a nightmare.
A bit outside you see all the settlements. People living in these tiny container houses. While the formal one have water and even electricity. The informal once have none of it and they not officially approved. There are so many and the picture is just so unreal. The brutal truth with the amazing table mountain in the background. A bit further inland the scenery changes and you look at endless vineyards.
We were drinking some lovely wine before lunch and they promised us, the once we have tasted would be the once we would get in Ireland. Their vintage THE BEAUTIFUL LADY was just our taste.
We continued after to a smaller one named Boschendaal which gave us the landscape we know from movies. The big white table in the green, surrounded by these white houses. This tasting wasn't for us and only the color of the wine was impressed, but the lunch buffet after was delicious. Some time for us to catch up with our old folks and realizing that they love travelling just as much. If only we would have the time they have. We can't wait for our retirement.
Before we went back to the hotel, we stopped at Drakenstein prison where Nelson Mandela was held before his release in 1990.
After we went to Cape Town for some sightseeing on the Waterfront. It is the tourist district on the harbor with a huge shopping center and lots of restaurants. Very difficult to get a spot, most of the famous restaurants are booked out, but we managed to get a table in Karibu. We tasted some Kudu, Springbok and Ostrich steak.
Our first night was disturbed by the hotel alarm. Not sure why, but our first reaction was IGNORE, JUST A TEST. While others thought it might be a terror attack. We had too many alarms in our life and never take them seriously anymore. Which is probably not a good thing. We stayed in our bed, but got a little worried when we heard people outside talking. Thank god there was an announcement shortly after FALSE ALARM. It turned out the kitchen staff triggered the alarm when they opened the oven doors.
Off we went to some wine tasting. Starting with the famous Nederburg which was around one hour drive from Cape Town. We enjoyed just sitting down and watching the scenery, which was so different. There was the busy city. The heavy traffic on the highway starts already from 5:30 am and we thought M50 Dublin is a nightmare.
A bit outside you see all the settlements. People living in these tiny container houses. While the formal one have water and even electricity. The informal once have none of it and they not officially approved. There are so many and the picture is just so unreal. The brutal truth with the amazing table mountain in the background. A bit further inland the scenery changes and you look at endless vineyards.
We were drinking some lovely wine before lunch and they promised us, the once we have tasted would be the once we would get in Ireland. Their vintage THE BEAUTIFUL LADY was just our taste.
We continued after to a smaller one named Boschendaal which gave us the landscape we know from movies. The big white table in the green, surrounded by these white houses. This tasting wasn't for us and only the color of the wine was impressed, but the lunch buffet after was delicious. Some time for us to catch up with our old folks and realizing that they love travelling just as much. If only we would have the time they have. We can't wait for our retirement.
Before we went back to the hotel, we stopped at Drakenstein prison where Nelson Mandela was held before his release in 1990.
After we went to Cape Town for some sightseeing on the Waterfront. It is the tourist district on the harbor with a huge shopping center and lots of restaurants. Very difficult to get a spot, most of the famous restaurants are booked out, but we managed to get a table in Karibu. We tasted some Kudu, Springbok and Ostrich steak.
Day 3 - Cape of Good Hope
This day was all about the coastal way to reach the most southwestern point of Africa. We stopped in Hout Bay, which seemed like a normal harbor with just a lot of souvenir stands placed there for tourism only. Ah and don't forget that guy who makes money from overfeeding a sea-lion. That poor thing is so fat.
We also heard the first time about this Irish guy Niall Mellon the owner of the township trust charity who builds houses and schools in Africa. Paul our guide was saying, there have been some problems in the past. The country requested to use their own people as volunteers, which delayed the project.
The government just has to make changes. Seeing the immense difference between rich and poor. One part living behind huge walls and electric fences, while the others sitting in a little cage made out of rubbish. It is just a crazy world.
Next stop was Cape of Good Hope. Back in the days it was announced as the southern point where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet. Turned out that it was actually 150km further, so they corrected the mistake and named it the southwestern point. At Cape Point we finally managed to do some walking, lots of steps rewarded with a nice view.
We continued to Boulders Beach to visit the Penguins before we went back to Cape Town and managed to get a place in the restaurant Belthazar to enjoy some delicious steak plus wine.
This was our last night in the city and we thought of changing money again. Well turned out you need a passport in every exchange bureau. After asking why, the lady at the counter replied I DON'T KNOW. We loved their honesty.
This day was all about the coastal way to reach the most southwestern point of Africa. We stopped in Hout Bay, which seemed like a normal harbor with just a lot of souvenir stands placed there for tourism only. Ah and don't forget that guy who makes money from overfeeding a sea-lion. That poor thing is so fat.
We also heard the first time about this Irish guy Niall Mellon the owner of the township trust charity who builds houses and schools in Africa. Paul our guide was saying, there have been some problems in the past. The country requested to use their own people as volunteers, which delayed the project.
The government just has to make changes. Seeing the immense difference between rich and poor. One part living behind huge walls and electric fences, while the others sitting in a little cage made out of rubbish. It is just a crazy world.
Next stop was Cape of Good Hope. Back in the days it was announced as the southern point where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet. Turned out that it was actually 150km further, so they corrected the mistake and named it the southwestern point. At Cape Point we finally managed to do some walking, lots of steps rewarded with a nice view.
We continued to Boulders Beach to visit the Penguins before we went back to Cape Town and managed to get a place in the restaurant Belthazar to enjoy some delicious steak plus wine.
This was our last night in the city and we thought of changing money again. Well turned out you need a passport in every exchange bureau. After asking why, the lady at the counter replied I DON'T KNOW. We loved their honesty.
Day 4 - Robben Island / Hermanus
We started the day with a ferry ride to Robben Island and what a ride that was. Like on a roller coaster. The ocean was a wild and we only survived outside on the railing. It was even a bit enjoyable. You had to hold on tight going up and down with the waves.
An ex inmate gave us a tour and the story of the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. You were listening to someone who is doing this nearly daily and telling about the torture he faced for 5 years. Maybe it was his therapy. You will also hear about other ex inmates and ex prison guards living on the island now together. It is hard to understand.
We found out later Table Mountain and Robben Island were closed for the next days' cause of too much wind. Can you imagine coming all this way and missing out on this?
We made our way to Hermanus a great holiday town directly on the ocean. We spent most of the time behind our binoculars looking out for whales. There is a guy called the whale crier who blows the horn once he spots a whale. They even wrote a book about him The Whale Caller.
We didn't hear him once and also had no luck on my own. This was a bit disappointing, but still we had a good time. Eating delicious seafood in Bientang Cave restaurant and finished the night with our group around the chimney in the Windsor Hotel
We started the day with a ferry ride to Robben Island and what a ride that was. Like on a roller coaster. The ocean was a wild and we only survived outside on the railing. It was even a bit enjoyable. You had to hold on tight going up and down with the waves.
An ex inmate gave us a tour and the story of the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. You were listening to someone who is doing this nearly daily and telling about the torture he faced for 5 years. Maybe it was his therapy. You will also hear about other ex inmates and ex prison guards living on the island now together. It is hard to understand.
We found out later Table Mountain and Robben Island were closed for the next days' cause of too much wind. Can you imagine coming all this way and missing out on this?
We made our way to Hermanus a great holiday town directly on the ocean. We spent most of the time behind our binoculars looking out for whales. There is a guy called the whale crier who blows the horn once he spots a whale. They even wrote a book about him The Whale Caller.
We didn't hear him once and also had no luck on my own. This was a bit disappointing, but still we had a good time. Eating delicious seafood in Bientang Cave restaurant and finished the night with our group around the chimney in the Windsor Hotel
Day 5 - Montagu
We realized that we never had the urge to be on our phone and barely managed to look at it at night. There was no need to know what's going on back home, we were all South Africa. We were watching the news and seen students protesting. Getting out of control in some parts.
Finally a late morning and regarding to our schedule the only one. Mostly we hit the road before 8 am. There was so much driving and it was great to just snoozing a little whenever you wanted to.
We stopped at a town named Swellendam which was surrounded by these nice green mountains and temperature went eventually up to 25 degrees. We were expecting mainly hot days on this holiday but so far we ran out of warm clothes.
Some more driving away from the coast all the way to Montagu which reminded us of some villages in Australia. After walking around and facing some dodgy looking people we decided to rest in our Country Hotel which had a nice garden with pool.
We realized that we never had the urge to be on our phone and barely managed to look at it at night. There was no need to know what's going on back home, we were all South Africa. We were watching the news and seen students protesting. Getting out of control in some parts.
Finally a late morning and regarding to our schedule the only one. Mostly we hit the road before 8 am. There was so much driving and it was great to just snoozing a little whenever you wanted to.
We stopped at a town named Swellendam which was surrounded by these nice green mountains and temperature went eventually up to 25 degrees. We were expecting mainly hot days on this holiday but so far we ran out of warm clothes.
Some more driving away from the coast all the way to Montagu which reminded us of some villages in Australia. After walking around and facing some dodgy looking people we decided to rest in our Country Hotel which had a nice garden with pool.
Day 6 - Knysna
This day we drove back to the seaside to a town called Knysna, a very nice holiday place. During the long ride one of our group members gave us a little geography lesson. Very handy to have a teacher on board and our tour guide enjoyed the break before he gave us some more inside of the country.
We drove along the ROUTE 62. Oh yes not just America has one. We stopped at a bar called Ronnie's Sex Shop. The funny story behind that name is, that nobody really stopped here and the crazy idea to add the word sex turned into a success. The bar is full of bra's and the wall full of memories from people who have been at this place. Sometimes you don't need much to keep a business booming.
We drove further to a place called Calitzdorp. It was a rough town, full of poor and drunken people. We were quickly surrounded by kids begging for money. The owner of a cafe advised us not to give them anything and donate instead to KIDS STOP which is an organisation helping poor children's.
Well, we were unable to find anything about it online, but totally agreed with not giving kids any money. Sandra learned that years ago in Cuba. Parents tend to take them out of school as the begging brings them more income than their salary.
Still a little in shock we got quickly distracted by our next stop in Oudtshoorn visiting an ostrich farm. Experience something different like standing on their non-breakable eggs or how about a ride? As Sandra was the skinniest and bravest person of the group she was the only one riding an ostrich. They tell you before they can speed up to 70 km/h and you have a lot of respect hoping they know what they do. Time for the German to show all the Irish some great performance.
After all this we really deserved a nice meal. What better to eat on this farm than an ostrich steak. Sounds really cruel from feeding to riding ending up in eating them. Horrible people we are but we had to admit it was one of the best steaks ever. It tasted a little like liver and was just so tender.
Back on the bus to our next destination Knysna in a luxury accommodation called Premier Hotel. We got a chalet for ourselves which was just stunning. Thankfully we stayed two nights. A bit tired from all the exploring we had some relaxing time on the fireplace. We cooked or had some Tapas. Only once we went into town for some delicious sushi at The Dry Dock restaurant.
This day we drove back to the seaside to a town called Knysna, a very nice holiday place. During the long ride one of our group members gave us a little geography lesson. Very handy to have a teacher on board and our tour guide enjoyed the break before he gave us some more inside of the country.
We drove along the ROUTE 62. Oh yes not just America has one. We stopped at a bar called Ronnie's Sex Shop. The funny story behind that name is, that nobody really stopped here and the crazy idea to add the word sex turned into a success. The bar is full of bra's and the wall full of memories from people who have been at this place. Sometimes you don't need much to keep a business booming.
We drove further to a place called Calitzdorp. It was a rough town, full of poor and drunken people. We were quickly surrounded by kids begging for money. The owner of a cafe advised us not to give them anything and donate instead to KIDS STOP which is an organisation helping poor children's.
Well, we were unable to find anything about it online, but totally agreed with not giving kids any money. Sandra learned that years ago in Cuba. Parents tend to take them out of school as the begging brings them more income than their salary.
Still a little in shock we got quickly distracted by our next stop in Oudtshoorn visiting an ostrich farm. Experience something different like standing on their non-breakable eggs or how about a ride? As Sandra was the skinniest and bravest person of the group she was the only one riding an ostrich. They tell you before they can speed up to 70 km/h and you have a lot of respect hoping they know what they do. Time for the German to show all the Irish some great performance.
After all this we really deserved a nice meal. What better to eat on this farm than an ostrich steak. Sounds really cruel from feeding to riding ending up in eating them. Horrible people we are but we had to admit it was one of the best steaks ever. It tasted a little like liver and was just so tender.
Back on the bus to our next destination Knysna in a luxury accommodation called Premier Hotel. We got a chalet for ourselves which was just stunning. Thankfully we stayed two nights. A bit tired from all the exploring we had some relaxing time on the fireplace. We cooked or had some Tapas. Only once we went into town for some delicious sushi at The Dry Dock restaurant.
Day 7 - Knysna
This day was a trip to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. A short boat ride from the mainland. We did a hike to a viewing point and a cave before we enjoyed a nice buffet at the restaurant.
Afrikaans are funny people. They always smile which is natural and not fake because they want to do business. Their working attitude is so relaxed you barely see them stressed out. We talked to local bus and taxi drivers, to the receptionist and it has been a pleasure to listen to their stories.
This day was a trip to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. A short boat ride from the mainland. We did a hike to a viewing point and a cave before we enjoyed a nice buffet at the restaurant.
Afrikaans are funny people. They always smile which is natural and not fake because they want to do business. Their working attitude is so relaxed you barely see them stressed out. We talked to local bus and taxi drivers, to the receptionist and it has been a pleasure to listen to their stories.
Day 8 - Port Elizabeth
We left Knysna on a rainy morning and had a 3 hrs drive ahead to our next destination The Paxton Hotel in Port Elizabeth. Our stop was at the Tsitsikamma National Park for another hike along some great scenery and the highest Bungee Jumping bridge of the world.
The Bloukrans River Bridge and even all eyes were on Sandra again, she declined. It was someone else's turn as she really couldn't face that adrenaline. A lady in our group in her 50's volunteered and experienced the kick of her lifetime.
Another bridge we passed later on having a less pleasant history. Van Stadens called “bridge of death” counts 82 suicide victims since the opening in November 1971.
Early evening we arrived in Port Elizabeth. Too tired to make our way into town all we saw was the hotel, a supermarket, a restaurant and the airport. Since the city was just known for their industry business we didn't think we missed much.
We finished the night in a nearby restaurant called Port Captain's House which was rated #202 of 269 on Tripadvisor. We couldn't agree unless all the other restaurants in this city are just stunning.
They had a great service, very friendly staff and since they know of our arrival they even played Irish music. The food was good quality and the cocktail menu just special.
We left Knysna on a rainy morning and had a 3 hrs drive ahead to our next destination The Paxton Hotel in Port Elizabeth. Our stop was at the Tsitsikamma National Park for another hike along some great scenery and the highest Bungee Jumping bridge of the world.
The Bloukrans River Bridge and even all eyes were on Sandra again, she declined. It was someone else's turn as she really couldn't face that adrenaline. A lady in our group in her 50's volunteered and experienced the kick of her lifetime.
Another bridge we passed later on having a less pleasant history. Van Stadens called “bridge of death” counts 82 suicide victims since the opening in November 1971.
Early evening we arrived in Port Elizabeth. Too tired to make our way into town all we saw was the hotel, a supermarket, a restaurant and the airport. Since the city was just known for their industry business we didn't think we missed much.
We finished the night in a nearby restaurant called Port Captain's House which was rated #202 of 269 on Tripadvisor. We couldn't agree unless all the other restaurants in this city are just stunning.
They had a great service, very friendly staff and since they know of our arrival they even played Irish music. The food was good quality and the cocktail menu just special.
Day 9 - Johannesburg
Last part of our journey. The one we were all looking forward to it the most. Safari in Kruger National Park. But a long travel was ahead of us. Flying to Johannesburg followed by many hours of driving to the final destination.
Off to the airport early in the morning we landed in a very hot Johannesburg with temperature nearly up to 30 degrees. Everyone was finally able to wear their summer clothes after we all run out of warm once. Who thought of Africa is so cold. So time it was for showing off these white sexy legs.
We went straight to the FNB-Stadium before visiting Soweto. Had lunch there in a restaurant called Chez Alina with homemade local food and live music. It was still a weird feeling to sit in such poor area and eating like kings. We collected tip for the singer and seen her later buying sweet's for the kids.
Before we left Soweto we paid a visit to Mandela's House, which was converted into a museum. Johannesburg felt different from the rest we have been so far. You won't see many white people and for once we felt like foreigners. Locals were looking at us because we were different. Strange feeling.
A day full of impressions and it wouldn't end. We got the opportunity to see an informal settlement in Kliptown. Glad we were in the company of a tour-guide. A trip by yourself wouldn't be safe.
This area was full of rubbish and you tried not to step into the smelly little rivers which obviously came from everyone's toilet.
The unemployment rate was 85% and teachers were confirming that many parents are even too lazy to help out. It made us wonder if everything needed to be that bad? Despite they are so poor, but if everyone would care a little more at least the place wouldn't be a dumb.
It was still sad to see kids playing here and running around barefoot. The more we were impressed by the Kliptown Youth Program a clean, organised area for them in the middle of the settlement. The program has 16 employees and looks after 100 children's.
With thoughtful faces we boarded our air-con bus driving off to our luxury Park Inn Hotel Sandton and appreciate a little more what we had.
Last part of our journey. The one we were all looking forward to it the most. Safari in Kruger National Park. But a long travel was ahead of us. Flying to Johannesburg followed by many hours of driving to the final destination.
Off to the airport early in the morning we landed in a very hot Johannesburg with temperature nearly up to 30 degrees. Everyone was finally able to wear their summer clothes after we all run out of warm once. Who thought of Africa is so cold. So time it was for showing off these white sexy legs.
We went straight to the FNB-Stadium before visiting Soweto. Had lunch there in a restaurant called Chez Alina with homemade local food and live music. It was still a weird feeling to sit in such poor area and eating like kings. We collected tip for the singer and seen her later buying sweet's for the kids.
Before we left Soweto we paid a visit to Mandela's House, which was converted into a museum. Johannesburg felt different from the rest we have been so far. You won't see many white people and for once we felt like foreigners. Locals were looking at us because we were different. Strange feeling.
A day full of impressions and it wouldn't end. We got the opportunity to see an informal settlement in Kliptown. Glad we were in the company of a tour-guide. A trip by yourself wouldn't be safe.
This area was full of rubbish and you tried not to step into the smelly little rivers which obviously came from everyone's toilet.
The unemployment rate was 85% and teachers were confirming that many parents are even too lazy to help out. It made us wonder if everything needed to be that bad? Despite they are so poor, but if everyone would care a little more at least the place wouldn't be a dumb.
It was still sad to see kids playing here and running around barefoot. The more we were impressed by the Kliptown Youth Program a clean, organised area for them in the middle of the settlement. The program has 16 employees and looks after 100 children's.
With thoughtful faces we boarded our air-con bus driving off to our luxury Park Inn Hotel Sandton and appreciate a little more what we had.
Day 10 - White River
For some reason we woke up around 5 am with the biggest eyeballs ever. Seemed like the side effect of the malaria tablets we started taking. Thank god some cold water and eye drops helped.
We sat down with a cup of tea on the window bench to enjoy some quiet time until we spotted the already busy city. That came as a surprise seeing so many people walking, traffic jam and overloaded minibuses. Everyone off to their jobs. Could you imagine instead of driving one hour to work, walking for 2-3 hrs?
Kruger National Park was 11 hours drive away, which screamed for a long, boring day in the bus. Luckily we had a few stops and seen some amazing landmarks.
First one was The Blyde River Canyon which is South African's grand canyon. We were a bit unlucky with the weather, but it was still great to see.
Next stop was Bourke's Luck Potholes some impressive formation of rocks which occur where the Treur River joins the Blyde River. Is nature, not just so beautiful?
The weather got worse. Rain, fog and not more than 14 degrees. We really had the wrong idea of Africa. Not just about the weather also the wildlife. Until now we have only seen a few cows, ostriches and two dolphins, but we hoped that would change.
Late in the afternoon we reached the Premier Hotel The Winkler in White River near the Kruger National Park. You could see the disappointment in everyone's face. Since this was our last destination, and far up from any civilization we were hoping for a stunning hotel. It was standard with old looking rooms and a very bad internet connection.
For some reason we woke up around 5 am with the biggest eyeballs ever. Seemed like the side effect of the malaria tablets we started taking. Thank god some cold water and eye drops helped.
We sat down with a cup of tea on the window bench to enjoy some quiet time until we spotted the already busy city. That came as a surprise seeing so many people walking, traffic jam and overloaded minibuses. Everyone off to their jobs. Could you imagine instead of driving one hour to work, walking for 2-3 hrs?
Kruger National Park was 11 hours drive away, which screamed for a long, boring day in the bus. Luckily we had a few stops and seen some amazing landmarks.
First one was The Blyde River Canyon which is South African's grand canyon. We were a bit unlucky with the weather, but it was still great to see.
Next stop was Bourke's Luck Potholes some impressive formation of rocks which occur where the Treur River joins the Blyde River. Is nature, not just so beautiful?
The weather got worse. Rain, fog and not more than 14 degrees. We really had the wrong idea of Africa. Not just about the weather also the wildlife. Until now we have only seen a few cows, ostriches and two dolphins, but we hoped that would change.
Late in the afternoon we reached the Premier Hotel The Winkler in White River near the Kruger National Park. You could see the disappointment in everyone's face. Since this was our last destination, and far up from any civilization we were hoping for a stunning hotel. It was standard with old looking rooms and a very bad internet connection.
Day 11 - Kruger National Park
The park is 350 km by 65 km and even with countless wildlife lower your expectation. What you know from documentaries is a few month work. It can happen that you drive around for 30 mins not seeing anything. You really need a lot of patience.
Our day started at 5:30 am and we entered the Numbi Gate for an 8 hour day. Which seems very long but it isn't. Time flies by so quickly. The weather was still cold and rainy.
Prepared with blankets and rain poncho we sat down in one of the safari jeeps which takes up to 9 people including the driver. They really experienced and know every corner of the park. Staying connected with all the other cars over a walkie talkie making sure you won't miss out on anything. Once someone is spotting an animal everyone else gets informed about it. Well of course not for Zebra, Elephant, Buffalo, Kudo or Giraffe as you will see them several times.
Well, at the end of the day we have seen four out of the big five. Which is a Rhino, Buffalo, Elephant and Lion. Only the Leopard was missing.
Lions are also hard to spot. Seen them hiding behind rocks or far away having their pleasure with each other after eating a Buffalo.
Bring binoculars! We got the Konus one at a flea market with auto focus which was just brilliant. So try to invest a bit more, trust me it will pay off. Also for your camera bring a big lens. With our 200 mm it sometimes seemed not good enough as most of the animals are far away.
The park is 350 km by 65 km and even with countless wildlife lower your expectation. What you know from documentaries is a few month work. It can happen that you drive around for 30 mins not seeing anything. You really need a lot of patience.
Our day started at 5:30 am and we entered the Numbi Gate for an 8 hour day. Which seems very long but it isn't. Time flies by so quickly. The weather was still cold and rainy.
Prepared with blankets and rain poncho we sat down in one of the safari jeeps which takes up to 9 people including the driver. They really experienced and know every corner of the park. Staying connected with all the other cars over a walkie talkie making sure you won't miss out on anything. Once someone is spotting an animal everyone else gets informed about it. Well of course not for Zebra, Elephant, Buffalo, Kudo or Giraffe as you will see them several times.
Well, at the end of the day we have seen four out of the big five. Which is a Rhino, Buffalo, Elephant and Lion. Only the Leopard was missing.
Lions are also hard to spot. Seen them hiding behind rocks or far away having their pleasure with each other after eating a Buffalo.
Bring binoculars! We got the Konus one at a flea market with auto focus which was just brilliant. So try to invest a bit more, trust me it will pay off. Also for your camera bring a big lens. With our 200 mm it sometimes seemed not good enough as most of the animals are far away.
Day 12 - Kruger National Park
On the second day you much more relaxed. Mostly we even put away the camera since we took tons of pictures on the day before. We have seen a hippo lying in a lake while a crocodile sitting on the shore with an open mouth. Spotted some scary looking hyena with their babies, a few giraffes crossing the road and zebras looking at us from the side of the road.
Still on the hunt to tick of our big five we got a final call that a Leopard was spotted at a another gate. Our ranger driving like a lunatic and we joined a bunch of people standing on a road looking all in the same direction. We were a little surprised that it was allowed to leave the car. Well special occasions require special exceptions. Who cares if we get eaten by Lions at least we have seen the Leopard, right? Sure, we were safe and with so many people the chances for each individual was much lower.
The picture was just hilarious cause out of 100 maybe 20 % have seen the Leopard. Sandra was one of the lucky once trying desperate to explain to the others where to look AT 9 O'CLOCK UNDER THE TREE BEHIND THAT DARK GREEN BUSH...can you see it?
What an adventure and even we expected more we still loved every moment. You get so addicted and sitting there until you get rewarded when spotting an animal is just a great feeling. Maybe we wouldn't do Kruger again, but a small national park.
On the second day you much more relaxed. Mostly we even put away the camera since we took tons of pictures on the day before. We have seen a hippo lying in a lake while a crocodile sitting on the shore with an open mouth. Spotted some scary looking hyena with their babies, a few giraffes crossing the road and zebras looking at us from the side of the road.
Still on the hunt to tick of our big five we got a final call that a Leopard was spotted at a another gate. Our ranger driving like a lunatic and we joined a bunch of people standing on a road looking all in the same direction. We were a little surprised that it was allowed to leave the car. Well special occasions require special exceptions. Who cares if we get eaten by Lions at least we have seen the Leopard, right? Sure, we were safe and with so many people the chances for each individual was much lower.
The picture was just hilarious cause out of 100 maybe 20 % have seen the Leopard. Sandra was one of the lucky once trying desperate to explain to the others where to look AT 9 O'CLOCK UNDER THE TREE BEHIND THAT DARK GREEN BUSH...can you see it?
What an adventure and even we expected more we still loved every moment. You get so addicted and sitting there until you get rewarded when spotting an animal is just a great feeling. Maybe we wouldn't do Kruger again, but a small national park.
Day 13/14 - Goodbye
That was it our South Africa adventure. It wasn't a relaxing holiday but a journey full of unforgettable impressions.
We drove back to Johannesburg, boarded the plane to Dubai and from there back to Dublin.
It was time to say goodbye to an amazing country, to our tour-guide and our group. Even as we all live in the same country we probably won't see each other again but who knows maybe one or the other path crossing again in the future...
That was it our South Africa adventure. It wasn't a relaxing holiday but a journey full of unforgettable impressions.
We drove back to Johannesburg, boarded the plane to Dubai and from there back to Dublin.
It was time to say goodbye to an amazing country, to our tour-guide and our group. Even as we all live in the same country we probably won't see each other again but who knows maybe one or the other path crossing again in the future...