10/01/2026
Going into this trip, my wingman Todd and I weren’t quite sure what to expect. Between long flights, safety concerns, and stepping into a brand-new culture, visiting South Africa was a leap outside our comfort zones. But every single unknown turned into an unforgettable memory—and we haven't stopped thinking about it since.
Here is how our trip unfolded:
Johannesburg (2 Nights): After 18 hours in the air, we started here to acclimate and visit the Apartheid Museum. Easily the single best historical museum I have ever visited; it was worth the stopover all on its own.
Thula Thula (6 Nights): Ever since reading The Elephant Whisperer, it was a dream of mine to experience Thula Thula in person. Located 3 hours from Durban, it exceeded every expectation. The game drives, the rangers, the food, the lodge, the staff, and the animals—not a single complaint. Pure magic.
Cape Town (4 Nights): Cape Town was one non-stop adventure! Renting a car gave us total freedom to explore on our terms: driving through the W**e Country, hanging out with penguins, standing at the Cape of Good Hope, taking in the views from Green Mountain, wandering colorful Bo-Kaap, and walking through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Beyond reathtaking landscapes and the long list of animals we saw, the people made this trip unforgettable. Everyone was so kind and engaging. Despite a deeply troubling history, there is sense of happiness with a positive outlook for the day and the future. But in contrast, driving past the shanty towns was a heavy, humbling sight that has left a lasting impact on how I view the world.
Traveling to new destinations with a bit of unknown and clear plan can be a big part of the reward. 🌍 💕
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