The Kaplan family (parents and college aged children), from outside Philadelphia, embarked on a 13-night Southern African adventure over winter break. Their journey began in Cape Town, an ideal spot to unwind after the long flight. For four nights, they stayed at the Table Bay Hotel on the vibrant Victoria & Albert Waterfront, a convenient location especially for nightly dinners. During their stay, they enjoyed a half-day private city tour that showcased Cape Town’s highlights, diverse neighborhoods, and breathtaking views from Table Mountain via the Aerial Cableway. The next day, they embarked on a full-day private tour to Cape Point, visiting the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, the Cape Point Nature Reserve, and charming towns along the route. They also ferried to Robben Island to learn about Nelson Mandela’s inspiring story and struggles.

From Cape Town, the Kaplans flew to Hoedspruit, transferring to the luxurious Ngala Tented Camp, a private safari retreat near Kruger National Park overlooking the Timbavati Riverbed. During their three-night stay, they enjoyed multiple game drives and were thrilled by the abundance of wildlife. Next, they flew from Kruger Airport to Victoria Falls for a three-night stay at the Old Drift Lodge on the Zimbabwe side of the falls. Their time here included a guided tour of the iconic falls, thrilling game drives, zip lining and a peaceful sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.

The final leg of their journey brought the Kaplans to Botswana, offering a starkly different landscape and environment. A charter plane from Kasane brought them to Gomoti Plains Camp in the Okavango Delta for a three-night stay. Here, they experienced unforgettable game drives and explored the delta’s waterways by mokoro canoe.

At both camps. the family was awestruck by the stupendous animal sightings, including all of the Big Five, countless other species, and even some elusive animals.  Both private, tented camps impressed the Kaplans with their exceptional food, hospitality, and top-notch accommodations. They were especially touched by the warmth and graciousness of the local staff and guides, who eagerly shared their culture, natural environment, and deep pride for their countries. The Kaplan family declared everything about their trip to be perfect and cannot wait to return to Africa!