As we navigate through these difficult times, we have to keep reminding ourselves why we do what we do. For me, it’s the love of travel and sharing it with travellers from around the world – the joy of discovering and experiencing Africa for the first or even the 10th time.
I have been very fortunate to travel extensively in our region of Africa, and every time I return more enlightened and humbled for it. A few memories or moments really stand out as exceptional, and these I would like to share with you.
Robin’s most meaningful travel experiences in Africa:
1. Okavango Delta, Botswana
I was on a trip in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, and we were due to fly from one lodge to the next – just a quick hop by small aircraft. In the morning, we were informed that we couldn’t fly due to recent rains, so we ended up doing the transfer by boat. Before we set off, the 4-hour journey through the Okavango Delta seemed daunting, but it turned out to be an amazing adventure. Exploring the Delta in depth with the abundant wildlife and birdlife was exhilarating. Witnessing the large heronry in particular, was something I will never forget. Often life’s journeys take unexpected detours, which is not always a bad thing.
2. South Luangwa, Zambia
On another of my travels, this time in South Luangwa, Zambia, we had the opportunity to camp out on a dry riverbed with nothing but a mosquito net between us and the star-encrusted African skies. We set off on our walking safari in the late afternoon with our guides and finally arrived at our campsite at dusk. The team had already set up camp – five see-through mosquito net tents, a port-a-loo and an open fireplace with director’s chairs as our kitchen and dining area. After a hearty BBQ dinner and a glass of good red wine, we settled in for an early night with the sounds and thrills of the African bush to lull us to sleep. It was magical to be completely cut off from civilisation and WiFi-free. To be out of one’s comfort zone, totally off the grid and to enjoy the simple pleasure of good conversation and nature was priceless.
3. Bazaruto Island, Mozambique
My third most memorable trip has to be the time I was on Bazaruto Island, Mozambique. This small and exclusive island is home to a hugely diverse range of activities. The island conjures up visions of tropical, white-sand beaches, dhow-boat cruises at sunset, crystal-clear waters for snorkelling or deep-sea diving and BBQs on private sandbanks in the middle of the Indian Ocean. We did it all, and then some! What really surprised me, though, was our land excursion. We set off on Jeeps to the middle of the island which features a series of very high sand dunes. The team at the lodge set up camp at the base with drinks and snacks while we hauled sandboards to the top of the dunes for a few exhilarating sand-surfs back down. Never expected that! Take the risks and take the ride, otherwise you may regret it.
4. Kenya
My final memory I’d like to share was in Kenya. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to do an extensive trip around Kenya. So many wonderful sights – from Mount Kenya, to Maasai Mara to the bustling city of Nairobi. What really stood out for me, though, was the lesser-known reserve of Samburu. This reserve is located in the north of the country and is home to the Samburu tribe. They are truly some of the nicest and friendliest people I have ever met anywhere, which really says a lot because the people of Africa are known for their warmth and friendship wherever you go. It is also more desert-like, making it very different from other, better-known parts of Kenya. My suggestion; always try to include the road less travelled in your itineraries – it can be very rewarding.
I feel blessed that I live in such a diverse and ever-changing continent, and that I get to travel, explore and experience what others call “one-in-a-lifetime” on a regular basis.