It’s no secret that the majority of us struggle to stick to our list of New Year’s resolutions. This year we invite you to start your year not with a fad detox or a list of “to do” resolutions but rather to take some time in nature, to contemplate what is means to make living an art form.
Many start the year with pace but what we have learnt at Londolozi, living close to nature for many generations, is that we don’t need to rush. Mother Nature teaches us that everything has a season, why not take your time? We believe that the New Year is about slowing down and paying attention to the power of rest. Why not make rest a priority this year?
Wherever you find yourself in the world this 2023, grasp at small opportunities that connect you to nature… In this blog, I’ve compiled a list of experiences and activities that you can do while at Londolozi that bring you closer to nature, closer to rest and potentially closer to your intentions for this year.
Spend More Time in Nature
This is a New Year’s intention we should all add to our list as nature connection can be a powerful tool for improving mental and physical health, as well as fostering a sense of connection and belonging. Londolozi is home to a wealth of stunning natural landscapes and animal life that you’ll be surrounded by all throughout your stay. With two daily game drives, you’ll watch the sunrise and sunset each day and be completely immersed in the wilderness as you explore the reserve.
Spending more time in nature is a rewarding experience that can help you to recharge and reconnect with yourself and the world around you. So this year, find time to replace the artificial environment of urban life with the tranquility of the African wilderness.
Detox from Technology
In today’s digital world we’ve become heavily reliant on technology and very rarely do we get the opportunity to unplug from all our devices. While we do have wifi connection in all of our chalets/suites, there’s limited access to wifi in any of the common areas or out on safari. This is to encourage connection with nature, yourself, and your friends and family. There’s truly no better place to do a technology detox than on safari, in the middle of the African bush. You’ll find yourself replacing screen time with beautiful animal sightings, conversation, storytelling around the fire, and so many more experiences that don’t require technology.
Observing wildlife in their natural habitat can be a thrilling and enriching experience, so when you’re out on a safari during your technology detox, make sure to focus on the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world (the senses of safari), and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Broaden Your Taste Buds
If you’re looking to broaden your taste buds, Londolozi is the perfect place to do so. You’ll dine on meals inspired by Africa’s rich cultural heritage and watch the sunset while sipping on one of our delicious locally-made gins. The dishes served at Londolozi are full of different flavours and locally sourced ingredients – so you’ll be sure to follow through with this intention during your stay with us.
Exercise your mind and body
One of the more popular New Year’s intentions is to stay active and improve your health and fitness. This will be easy to achieve at Londolozi by making use of our gym as well as our daily, open-air yoga classes. Being among the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush will enrich your exercise experience, by bringing a sense of peace and calm that a commercial gym could never match.
Pick Up a New Hobby
A safari holiday is a perfect opportunity to pursue a passion for photography. While out on safari you’ll be able to capture the large variety of wildlife and picturesque landscapes that Londolozi has to offer. Not only is photography a fun hobby to explore while on safari, but it is also a wonderful way to capture all of your Londolozi memories.
For those who don’t want to travel with camera gear, you’ll be able to rent some from our onsite Photographic Studio. You’ll also have access to a Lightroom instructor, where you can spend time between game drives editing and printing your favourite imagery on canvas to display in your home.
A trip to Londolozi is so much more than a holiday – it’s a space that allows for connection and the opportunity to recharge your mind, body, and soul. Here’s to a health-filled 2023. We look forward to being your connection to nature this year and always.
We have been to several camps throughout Africa, but find that it is so much easier to “lose yourself” at Londolozi. Time stands still the moment we land on the airstrip after a long and hurried journey to get there!
That is wonderful to hear, Vin!
Detox from technology , lovely
Thank youMegan for sharing your perspective on Londolozi’s many available activities in addition to game drives.
Such a pleasure, William. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Good blog Megan, and all viable reasons for a trip to Londolozi, especially spending time in nature.
Thanks so much, Denise!
Rest is the best answer to your body, especially in nature where the air is clean. Roaming animals, birds flying and small little creatures all doing their daily activities gives us time to sit and watch, listen and smell the bush in all it’s glory.
I couldn’t agree more, Valmai. The healing power of nature is incredible.
For all the reasons you discuss, Megan, I always feel that I am most alive, that I am the best I can be when I’m at Londolozi…
That is so lovely to hear, Mary Beth!