So we decided on a walking safari in the Greater Kruger.

And to say it right up front: it exceeded our expectations in every way.

We were picked up at the lodge and driven to the Pridelands reserve. There, our guide Reinhardt – also our neighbour – got ready for the walk. He grabbed his rifle (legally required for safety), and off we went. Reinhardt assured us that in all his years, he’s never had to fire a shot – that already gave us a good feeling.

Walking through the bush is a completely different experience. There’s a hole in the ground – not a mole, but a scorpion burrow. A termite mound becomes a fascinating example of natural engineering. Then: tracks in the sand. Buffalo!

And yes – just a bit later, we saw them. A whole herd of at least 60 buffalo, calves included, at a waterhole. Reinhardt quietly led us around the herd, against the wind, to a small rise – the perfect viewpoint for this stunning moment.

It was hard to walk away. But there was more to discover.

And then, as if the bush wanted to top it all off: a lioness appeared in front of us. A moment we’ll never forget.

After more than three hours, we returned to the lodge – happy, amazed, and full of new impressions from the world of tracks, plants, and wildlife.

And after such a walk, Nomsa’s breakfast tastes even better.