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South Africa

“From the Wild to the Winding Road: Trading Roars for New Roads”

Today we said farewell to the incredible Kruger National Park, leaving behind unforgettable wildlife sightings and memories that will stay with us long after this journey ends. As we hit the road toward Wakkerstroom, our adventure shifted from safari to scenic exploration.
Our first stop was the beautiful Lowveld National Botanical Garden, where we enjoyed lunch surrounded by nature. We wandered through stunning landscapes, admired a breathtaking waterfall, and discovered an incredible variety of plants unique to South Africa. It was the perfect place to pause, reflect, and appreciate another side of this remarkable country.

Admiring the falls at the confluence of the Crocodile and Nels rivers at Lowveld National Botanical Garden

Back on the road, our conversations turned to South Africa’s rich history and diverse culture. As the miles passed by, we gained a deeper understanding of the people, places, and stories that have shaped this nation. Every discussion added another layer of meaning to the experiences we’ve already had.
The journey is far from over, and each destination continues to reveal something new. Buckle up—we’ve got plenty more adventures ahead, and we can’t wait to share them with you!

Katie’s expert topic and new favorite plant: the cycad! Cycads are ancient plants that look like a palm but are more closely related to conifer trees. They are cone-bearing and considered “living fossils” because cycads have been around since the age of the dinosaurs!
Mpumi helps us select some fresh avocados from a roadside vendor to try.

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9 COMMENTS
  • Emma Blackford

    3 weeks ago

    Have the best time in Wakkerstroom! Tell David I fully expect him to find longclaws and Blue Cranes for the group!

    • Megan Davis

      3 weeks ago

      AUTHOR

      Will do!!!

  • Misty Tarlton

    3 weeks ago

    I am sad to hear the group is leaving Kruger National Park. The animal encounters were pretty special. Somewhere out there, that lion cub is telling its family about the weird humans it kept avoiding. Don’t worry, you are forgiven but I expect big things from you all in Wakkerstroom. Enjoy your day!!!!

  • Cindia

    3 weeks ago

    That waterfall was amazing! Unlike any I’ve ever seen. How did they determine that that type of tree has been around since the dinosaurs? 🤷‍♀️Are the fruits at the fruit stand grown in the botanical gardens? I bet Pansy about had a fit when she saw that fruit stand! Did you know her favorite fruit is the apple? By the way, where is Pansy? I didnt see her in the group photo. Did yall get tired of her shenanigans so you made her stay on the bus? 🤪 I hope yall have a wonderful day!

    • Megan Davis

      3 weeks ago

      AUTHOR

      Pansy is an invaluable and beloved member of our group! She definitely is not left behind. She was in a different subset of our group when we explored the gardens and was likely taking pictures of monkeys when this waterfall picture was taken (ha!).

  • Nancy

    3 weeks ago

    I wonder how long it takes the vendor to sell all that beautiful produce? 🙂 And I love that cycad, too!

  • Holly Larsen

    3 weeks ago

    This experience is epic! Such a beautiful country in so many ways. Try not to pet the wild things!! Or the non-wild things in most places! Oh, and drink as much SA wine as possible because its delicious 😋

  • Tammy Lee

    3 weeks ago

    This experience looks amazing! I want to go! AJ I hope you are behaving, LOL

  • Kathy

    3 weeks ago

    The roadside fruit stand was awesome! Some things translate from 1 country to another!

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