The last luxury: Day 7-9



Zebra in morning light at Kariega.


What a grand way to start an all-Africa journey by spending two nights at Kariega! Not only is the reserve home to the Big 5 and a range of 5 star luxury accommodation (all of which we got to enjoy), Kariega also has a heart for Africa and supports the vision of Open Africa: conservation, job creation and authentic-Africa experiences for tourists. For this reason, Kariega jumped on board as our main sponsor, covering our many tanks of diesel and unforeseen expenses that go hand in hand with a journey like this.   



Robbie and Jazz surrounded by ellies.

Open Africa and Kariega are partnering on a new venture to ensure the sustainability of the organisation and the vision of Open Africa. Together, they are pioneering a ‘

Safari Route

’ as a commercial approach to generate income so that Open Africa becomes a self-sustaining social enterprise. The Journey marks the start of this new venture.



White rhino, who are being closely surveyed.

On our first morning we woke up before light to go for a game drive and were treated to a sighting that surprised even the Ranger. Besides getting up close to white rhino, playful elephant and a dozing male lion, the highlight was getting a glimpse of the rare and elusive caracal, or rooikat. Robbie (illegally) hopped out of the open-top vehicle to get a better shot, and was happily snapping away when he suddenly took flight, landing haphazardly back in the safety of the vehicle. The caracal apparently ‘charged’ him. Needless to say, it was a hilarious moment seeing my 6ft2 husband fleeing from a feline less than a quarter of his size!

That night we were treated to a 3 course gourmet meal at the lavish Ukhozi Lodge – a last luxury before hitting the rough road.