On a game drive, we pass some of the largest baobab trees in Southern Africa, where guide Mzwandile NtlokoâZwa for shortâpoints to deep scars along its ancient bark. âThese marks are evidence that elephants once roamed here,â he says. Itâs estimated that these magnificent creatures disappeared from the region nearly 100 years ago. Through reforestation, grassland restoration, carbon sequestering and the opening of wildlife corridors, the hope now for the sustainable safari vision is that the elephants as well as other apex species like lions will one day return. For now, the bush still teems with life. Our game drives reveal an abundance of giraffes, zebras, kudus, nyalas, hippos, waterbucks, rare birds, and butterflies.
Photo: Few & Far Luvhondo
On my final morning, we hike up the Sengi Trail, one of the many routes established by the lodge based on pathways already trodden by wildlife. âThe baboons love this path,â says Dawn Booyens, the lodgeâs conservation manager and lead ecologist. âTheyâre part of the maintenance crew.â Along the way, our guide, Mosesâwho is also a local healerâpoints out medicinal plants, including spekboom, a succulent with natural antiseptic properties. We stop at a rocky outcrop to enjoy steaming cups of coffee and buttermilk rusks, a traditional twice-baked biscuit invented to preserve bread during long treks across the country.