A Wedding Planner's African Safari
“I Bless The Rains Down in Africa” and have to share some fun moments of my travels abroad. Thank goodness for all of the memories and photos!
Once upon a time, I took the road less traveled and explored Southern Africa. There is a certain mystique traveling so far away and off the beaten path that I occasionally yearn for! This led me to the countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and South Africa. Being the thrill-seeking person I am, I embarked upon a journey of a lifetime, unlike any other. 4 countries, 16 flights, thousands of wild animals, millions of stars in sky, 10 breathtaking hotels later, I bring you some of the best moments from my African safari! I received several questions from you on how I managed to vacation for 3 weeks out of 3 duffel bags (those small Cessna flights have packing restrictions!) staying somewhat stylish... So I've included a few links to our favorite travel essentials throughout the trip.
BOTSWANA
One of my favorite sightings was an elephant family drinking along the river at Shinde Camp.
Here is a snapshot of me on a Mokoro boat ride with elephant herd crossing the river in the distance. I clearly had to back up!
Jacket: Lululemon Athletica. Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Aviator. Binoculars: Nikon.
I was in complete awe stumbling on a pride of lions during a safari game drive through the delta.
Every night I had the absolute pleasure of gorgeous sunsets like these in the Okavango Delta enjoying a famous sundowner. The sunsets (and the drinks) were divine!
Top: Lush Twist Front Woven Shirt. Hat: Tombstone. Sunglasses: Valentino.
ZIMBABWE
Zimbabwe and Zamia are a must visit! Here’s me watching the sun rise over Victoria Falls, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Right before the rainbow appeared!
This is an aerial view from a helicopter right of the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls where the Zambezi River plummets 420 feet! The falls are classified as the largest waterfall in the world!
If you are brave enough, I definitely recommend seeing the Falls from the sky or by microlight plane for the very best views and THRILLS :)
NAMIBIA
One of my Cessna flights, affectionately called them the Ubers of Southern Africa! This flight was taken into Sossusvlei, Namibia where the plane had to circle 3 times due to the Oryx and Zebra on the dirt runway!
The airport was literally a zoo!
Top: Lush Twist Front Woven Shirt. Shoes: AllSaints Demise Alpine Boot.
The runway was clearly very busy that day at the Sossusvlei airport! In Southern Africa, in countries like Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, etc. private aircraft is the most trusted and timely method of getting around.
On one of my mornings in Sossusvlei, I floated in a hot air balloon over the desert to a champagne brunch. The Namibian Desert is one of the safest places to enjoy hot air ballooning due to its unobstructed terrain.
Transitional outfits with layering are key when heading out on safari in climates with drastic fluctuation. Temperatures in the morning and late evenings tend to drop very low, whereas midday would get into the 90s!
Romper: Nasty Gal Trooper Utility Romper.
Shoes: AllSaints Demise Alpine Boot
Socks: Moosejaw
Scarf: Nordstrom BP Heritage Plaid Scarf
Hat: Tombstone
Sunglasses: Karen Walker Helter Skelter Crazy Tort
Another one of my favorite sundowner experiences. The staff at andBeyond had our cocktails of choice, light snacks, and the perfect setting for a gorgeous sunset every time.
In my room at one of my favorite hotels, & Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge. This resort is known for its evening star gazing and has a resident astronomer on staff at all times! I cannot wait to go back to this magical sanctuary one day.
Admiring the stark contrasts and surreal setting in Deadvlei, Namibia. Don’t mind me I am just rattlesnake spotting…!
Jacket: Lululemon Athletica. Shorts: Current/Elliot. Shoes: AllSaints Demise Alpine Boot. Socks: Moosejaw.
South Africa
Loving the gorgeous coast line of Cape Town, South Africa.
Enjoying the penguins and the sea breeze at Betty's Bay.
Top: Lush Twist Front Woven Shirt. Sunglasses: Karen Walker Helter Skelter Crazy Tort.
I will forever be inspired by the colorful Capetonian town, Bo-Kaap. It is so vibrant and fun!
Had to show some love to my favorite restaurant in Constantia at the Silvermist Wine Estate, La Colombe.
Lots of South African wine and not enough time during our five course meal with wine pairings at La Colombe. I recommend visiting during lunch to take in the beautiful views of the estate.
Top: Banana Republic.
One of my favorite dishes, Tuna 'La Colombe' paired with HemeIrand Vine Garden 2015 (Walker Bay).
The stunning Silvermist Wine Estate.
Cage diving with these is a must when traveling to Shark Alley! A rare photo captured of a Great White Shark breaching the waters of the South Atlantic Ocean just off the coast of Gansbaai. I experienced 9 different sharks that morning.
Stellenbosch
Arguably the most famous and beautifully kept wineries in Stellenbosch, Vergelegen. If you go definitely try the Semillion. I love this wine & winery so much!
Here is another view while wine tasting with Editor in Chief of Wine Magazine, Fiona McDonald. Stellenbosch reminded me of Napa, on steroids! Just breathtaking!
Travel Must-Haves
These TSA-approved lifesavers are worth including in every travel bag.
Shampoo: Kérastase Nutritive Bain 2. Conditioner: Kérastase Lait Vital. Facial Wipes: Simple Sensitive Skin Experts Micellar Makeup Remover. Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46. Hairspray: Redkin Wind Blown 05. Volume Spray: Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast. Smoothing Serum: Redkin Frizz Dismiss FPF 30 Instant Deflate. Allergy Medicine: Zyrtec Liquid Gels. Hand Sanitizer: Purell Advanced.
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