We wanted to get away from it all, so we decided to pack our Escape Society Full Grain Leather Weekender for our annual trip to Gondwana Game Reserve, the ultimate destination for escaping the rat race. 

Traveling is about turning new experiences into lifelong memories. So instead of doing things the way we were used to, we tried an unfamiliar approach by booking our trip with Timeless Africa Safari. Our booking experience from start to finish was excellent, from the gift bag with goodies that made our safari comfortable to the efficient flexibility of rebooking the trip because of a Rona scare.

The wildlife are always up to the task (they understood the assignment), during our first hour (while checking in), we witnessed a herd of cape buffalo grazing near the waterhole 500m away from our huts. There’s no need to go on a safari – we’re already in one. 

The Kwena Hut

Our stay in the Kwena hut felt familiar. The bathrooms have had a bit of a renovation, and now their toiletries include Africology natural amenities. This luxurious hut in the middle of nowhere features a king-size bed complete with an electric blanket, a wood fireplace, a walk-in shower and deep bath where you can unwind taking in the idyllic scenery outside your bathroom window.

The Food

We gave ourselves the full holiday experience, by making a point of booking a full board package, which includes all meals and afternoon tea.

The menu, which is updated daily, caters for health freaks, including vegetarian and banting options. The food quality is great and the food is wonderfully presented. You'll be given a mini-starter before each course to freshen your palate. 

You're given the option to enjoy your meal indoors by the fire or outside in the open air on the deck; there’s no wrong answer.

The Game Drives

The game drives never disappoint—this time, our guide was Corlea, who has great relationships with the wildlife. She had a way of talking about the wildlife as if they were people we knew and had just met. 

The drive themselves were beautiful as we threaded through the thickets of fynbos to the lions who were playing like kittens after a meal and the elephants who, as always, were just doing their own thing. 

If you're in the area during the winter months, make sure to experience one of the most beautiful sights that you will ever see: a protea field in bloom (ask your ranger to take your through Protea Lane). 

Final Thoughts

Gondwana is a nature-lover’s paradise along the Garden Route, away from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers a serene environment for those looking to relax.

We’re not sure if it’s the mountain air, the friendly hospitality, or the wildlife, but after our annual vacay there, we always come back refreshed and rejuvenated.