One of the liberties South Africans are most looking forward to post-lockdown is probably the freedom to be outside, enjoy nature and exercise in the great outdoors. Tintswalo Lodges has identified this as a unique safari opportunity for South Africans and have stepped up to the plate with the introduction of walking safaris.
Walking safari packages will be on offer at Tintswalo Safari Lodge in the Manyeleti Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger region, and Tintswalo Lapalala in the malaria-free Waterberg, an easy 3-hour drive from Johannesburg. These range from a 3-hour walk, with a bush brunch followed by a game drive in an open safari vehicle to return to the lodge, to 2-hour excursions setting out on foot from the lodge and a shorter one-hour walk on the morning of departure. Children can be accommodated from the age of 16 and older.
Lisa Goosen, the owner and CEO of Tintswalo Lodges says that there has been a surge in interest from viewers following Tintswalo’s virtual safaris that are broadcast daily on its social media channels during lockdown. ‘We have had a phenomenal response to the virtual safaris and positive feedback from South Africans who have been inspired to tick that safari bucket list. Bush walks in Big Five territory is a specialised activity that is not that widely available and so we are fortunate that we can offer this in both these pristine reserves, as Tintswalo’s experienced rangers are qualified as walking trails guides too.’
There is no safer place to escape the coronavirus than being away from crowds, out in the bush. In addition, the idea of a walking safari instead of driving around in a vehicle for game viewing appeals to many South Africans who have been cooped up for weeks during lockdown
‘Walking safaris offer a very real, multi-sensory experience as you are much more connected to nature when you are on foot. Our lodges are looking spic and span after we have had lots of time for maintenance work and our service staff are eagerly anticipating their return to work. We simply can’t wait to open our doors again to welcome our guests.’
Image: Supplied
