Nelson Mandela famously said, "No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite." This powerful belief in equality and the intrinsic value of every human being guided his lifelong fight against apartheid and his efforts to build a just and inclusive society.
Inspired by Mandela’s legacy, our recent trip to South Africa was more than just a vacation; it was a journey with a purpose. While we travelled for pleasure, the deep story of Mandela’s life and ideals carried us through each experience. Our group of 14, spanning multiple generations - from teenagers to those in their late seventies - came together, united by a shared respect for this remarkable history. Old friends and new acquaintances alike bonded over this common purpose, creating a unique blend of experiences and perspectives. There were moments when we’d all gather, regardless of age, to play cards while waiting for the next safari, simply enjoying each other’s company. This adventure, rooted in the profound legacy of Mandela, brought us closer in a way that left us with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Cape Town: A perfect start with friends
We kicked off our adventure in Cape Town, staying in a gorgeous five-star hotel right on the bustling waterfront. It was the perfect place to start our journey, especially because some in our group had travelled together before, making that first day a great time to catch up and reconnect. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views right at our doorstep.
That evening, we all boarded a boat for a sunset cruise. The sky put on a spectacular show as the sunset, casting a golden glow over the water. We even spotted a few sea lions lounging on the rocks, which added a touch of magic to the evening. The teenagers were just as captivated as the adults, and it was clear that we were off to a great start.
The next day, we took a ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. This was a powerful and emotional experience for everyone. Our private guide, who had actually worked at the prison during Mandela’s time there, shared stories that really brought the history to life. It was a sobering reminder of the struggles that shaped South Africa, and even the youngest in our group felt the impact. We balanced the day’s seriousness with a lively dinner and drumming lesson at Gold Restaurant, where we all joined in the singing, dancing, and drumming. It was a night full of laughter and joy and 14 different courses to try- a perfect way to end the day.
Top Tip: When staying in Cape Town, the waterfront area is the place to be. It’s safe, well-patrolled, and packed with lovely shops, restaurants, and street musicians. It’s the perfect base for exploring.
The Cape of Good Hope: Natural beauty and fun for all
Our next adventure took us down to the Cape of Good Hope, where the rugged coastline and sweeping views took our breath away. We hiked up to the lighthouse, each at our own pace, and were rewarded with stunning views of where the land meets the sea. It was one of those moments that felt both exhilarating and peaceful at the same time. We even spotted emus and a few monkeys along the way.
From there, we visited Boulders Beach to see the famous African penguins. These little guys are always a hit, and this visit was no exception. Whether it was snapping photos or simply enjoying the view, everyone found something to love about these charming characters. We also discovered a tiny fish and chip spot nearby that served up what might have been the best meal of the trip - simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious.
We spent another day exploring the wine regions of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, where the adults indulged in wine tastings while the teenagers enjoyed the beautiful scenery and sweet treats. It was a day of relaxation and fun, with everyone finding something to enjoy in this picturesque part of the country. Our host for the day was a lovely retired wine expert who taught us so much about the wines of the region.
Top Tip: The Canadian dollar goes a long way in South Africa, so be prepared to shop! From beautiful local crafts, fabulous African fashion to world-class wines, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to bring home something special.
Kruger National Park: Wildlife encounters for all ages
Then it was off to Kruger National Park, where we immersed ourselves in the wild heart of Africa. Our first camp was a tented one, but don’t be fooled - this was no ordinary camping experience. The tents were comfortable, with private bathrooms and balconies overlooking a watering hole. It felt like we were right in the middle of the action, especially when we spotted animals coming to drink.
The real highlight, though, was our stay at Kruger Shalati, a hotel set in a gloriously refurbished train on a disused bridge over the Sabie River. Waking up to see hippos and other wildlife from our huge window was something surreal. Each morning and evening every safari brought new excitement, with lions and their cubs, elephants with their babies, and even elusive leopards making appearances. In the words of one of my favourite guests “ I didn’t even know I wanted to see wild animals but I was enthralled by the skill of our drivers and the thrill of seeing lions, giraffes, elephants and deer like substances up close. Never knowing what would happen next was exciting! And imagine my surprise that I would become an expert on excrement! Next time someone tells me I am full of shit I will reply “oh no but I know my shit”.
Top Tip: When going on safari, wear neutral- coloured clothing. The animals get incredibly close, and the safari trucks are open, so blending in with the surroundings helps keep the focus on the wildlife rather than on you.
Our final stop was Johannesburg, where we had the unique opportunity to stay in Nelson Mandela’s former presidential home, now a boutique hotel. Sleeping in the very room where Mandela once rested was an unforgettable experience, deepening our connection to the history we had been exploring. One of the most special moments was accessing the private archives in the basement of the Mandela Foundation, offering us an intimate glimpse into the life and legacy of this remarkable leader. This experience truly bookended our journey in Mandela's footsteps.
Johannesburg surprised us all with its warmth and vibrancy. A tuk-tuk tour through Soweto, guided by a local, brought the city’s rich history and culture to life. The stories we heard were both touching and inspiring, and the smiles and kindness of the people we encountered left a lasting impression.
Visiting Mandela’s home and the museum dedicated to his life was a highlight for all of us, bringing our journey full circle. It was a fitting end to our adventure, leaving us with a deeper understanding of the man who inspired this incredible trip.
Top Tip: Don’t shy away from tours to Soweto. We really loved the Tuk Tuks. We felt safe at all times, and it’s a fantastic way to connect with the vibrant culture and history of Johannesburg.
A Journey to Remember
As I look back on this trip, I’m reminded of how special it was to share these experiences with such a wonderful group of people. South Africa offered us a mix of culture, history, and nature that everyone enjoyed at their own pace. From the lively streets of Cape Town to the quiet afternoons painting watercolours in Kruger, and the rich history of Johannesburg, every part of this journey had something unique to offer. Whether we were reconnecting with old friends, marvelling at wildlife, or simply soaking in the beauty around us, this was a trip that will stay with us forever. And the best part? We all loved every minute of it.
Next year, we’ll be doing it all over again. We’ve chosen the same time of year because it’s truly the best for wildlife - there are baby animals everywhere, the grass is short for better visibility, and while Cape Town is chilly, it’s far from freezing. I won’t be changing much about the trip, including keeping it to a smaller, more intimate group. If you’re interested in joining us, reach out to me as soon as possible. This is a very special journey, one that you will never forget.
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