The Bucket List trip to South Africa That Changed Me: Why I’m Returning in 2027

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The Bucket List trip to South Africa That Changed Me: Why I’m Returning in 2027

By Danielle Petty, ASTA Verified Travel Advisor with Cruise Planners

 

A Bucket List Travel Vacation: My Journey Through South Africa and Zimbabwe

My bucket list has always included a trip to Africa and going on a safari. In 2022, I finally had my chance and took the trip of a lifetime to South Africa and Zimbabwe with a group of travel friends. As a travel advisor who helps clients plan their European vacations, I enjoy helping clients create unforgettable experiences, but this adventure reminded me just how transformative travel can be.  As I planned the trip to South Africa, I divided our journey into three major experiences: exploring Cape Town, discovering the Greater Kruger Area, and ending with a visit to Victoria Falls.

 

Exploring Cape Town and the Western Cape Area

We arrived in Cape Town, one of South Africa’s oldest cities. After a brief rest in our hotel, we headed out for lunch and took our first look at the city, exploring the Victoria and Albert Wharf Area. Cape Town, like much of Africa, reveals two distinct sides: modern cityscapes with skyscrapers and, in contrast, the lingering effects of poverty and corruption visible in the townships.

On our first full day in the Western Cape Area, we explored the natural beauty surrounding Cape Town. We began at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and recognized as one of the most magnificent botanical gardens in the world. Then, we visited the penguins at Boulder Beach, explored the Cape Point lighthouse, and traveled to the Cape of Good Hope, the southwestern most point in Africa. At the end of the day, we headed back to Cape Town, where we were fortunate to catch the last cable car of the day to the top of Table Mountain, to enjoy the amazing views of the city.

South Africa is also known for exceptional wines, and we spent our third day touring the Wine Region of the Western Cape. We enjoyed private wine tastings and food pairings. We even arranged to have wine shipped back home to the U.S. Pinotage is the most famous wine from this region; a red wine known for its deep dark‑fruit flavors, earthy notes, and distinctive hints of smoke or spice, we were fortunate to bring it home to enjoy.

 

Kruger National Park and the Big Five Wildlife Encounter: My Safari Experience

After three memorable days in the Western Cape, it was time to for the African Safari. We flew to Johannesburg and spent one night at the favorited by travelers African Safari Lodge. Before heading to the Greater Kruger Area, we took a private tour of Soweto, a township created during the apartheid reign and a pivotal location in the anti-apartheid movement. Our guide, who had personally participated in protests, brought history to life with her stories. That evening, the lodge owners treated us to a traditional braai, or South African barbecue.

Early the next morning, we began the long drive to Kruger National Park. The park spans nearly five million acres and, along with the private game reserves adjoining it, offers some of the best opportunities to see South African wildlife—especially The Big Five: buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos. We checked into Hippo Hollow Lodge, where wild hippos sometimes roam the grounds; and spotted one during dinner on our first night! Each day started early, since animals tend to be most active at dawn and dusk.

Kruger reminded me of a much larger version of U.S. National Parks. With well‑maintained roads and vast landscapes, Kruger National Park is seven times the size of Yellowstone. During a full day of exploring with our guide, we saw four of the Big Five—although the lion remained elusive, the experience of seeing animals in the wild, rather than in captivity, was unforgettable.

After two nights staying at the Hippo Hollow lodge, we moved to the Krawogwe Private Game Reserve and stayed at Chisomo Safari Camp. Shortly after arriving, we set out on our first private reserve safari. After several days of waiting and traveling on the reserve, we finally saw three lions, completing our goal of seeing The Big Five. Our days in the game reserve followed a wonderful rhythm: early safari drives, brunch and leisure time at the lodge, then another safari in the late afternoon.

 

Why Victoria Falls Is a Must-See on Any South Africa Vacation

After leaving the reserve we returned to Johannesburg to fly to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.  The falls were magnificent—a powerful display of nature and a fitting highlight near the end of our trip. The town of Victoria Falls itself has so much to offer travelers, including many great restaurants and brew pubs to visit. We topped off the evening with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River looking for crocodiles and hippos.

 

Travel with Danielle Petty: South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana Group Trip 2027

My 2022 trip to South Africa and Zimbabwe is one of my all‑time favorite travel experiences and holds an especially deep place in my heart. I fell in love with the people, the culture, and the wildlife. The experience affected me so much that I’m leading a group trip back to South Africa, Zimbabwe, and adding on Botswana for this trip in May 2027! I want others to feel just how transformative it can be to travel the South African continent.

I can’t wait to return and be among the animals again. Zoos may offer a glimpse of elephants and lions, but nothing compares to seeing them in the wild, living each day with survival as their only goal. Watching the natural world unfold right before your eyes is truly a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience. The group trip I’m hosting includes the perfect blend of what Africa has to offer. Along with safari drives in South Africa and Botswana, we will visit Victoria Falls, spend time in the Western Cape wine regions, and explore the vibrant city of Cape Town.

I would love to have others join me on this life‑changing journey. I’m booking spots now for this historic trip. All the details can be found here - Find out more information about the 2027 trip here

 

Personalized Travel Planning with a Chesterfield, Missouri Travel Advisor

As an ASTA Verified Travel Advisor and owner of a Cruise Planners franchise in Chesterfield, Missouri, I help travelers design unforgettable journeys tailored to their interests. Whether you're planning a luxury cruise, an all‑inclusive resort vacation, a European getaway, or a completely customized travel experience, I provide personalized travel planning services at no additional cost.

Ready to start planning your next vacation? Visit www.TotalComfortTravel.com, call 636-778-2446, or email Danielle.Petty@CruisePlanners.com