Londolozi is a 4th generation family run operation and as such we appreciate the value of bringing a child into the bush; allowing them to experience the natural world and to know from a young age the wonders, spectacles and curiosities of our last wild places.
Tracker Rob “Professor” Hlatshwyo shows the girls the intricacies of a tortoiseshell. We presume this individual had fallen prey to a Southern Ground Hornbill. due to the way in which the shell had been cracked open and the contents were eaten.
“One of my greatest joys is to watch, year after year, as generations return to Londolozi as Africa and her wildlife become the touchstone and common passion for young and old. Africa creates the connection, no matter how everyone grows or where they live in the world. Everyone returns ‘home’ on their African safari” – Shan Varty
The Naidoos return to Londolozi 10 years later but this time with the addition of two beautiful girls.
Sisters don’t mind sharing the comfort of the front seat.
It is a real joy to watch a child’s eyes light up as they witness each one of the multiple incredible moments that make up a drive; from learning about tracks and signs from a master tracker, Rob “the Professor” Hlatshwyo, to spotting a Lilac-breasted Roller in a tree; from finding one of the last dung beetles of the season to the unbelievable privilege of getting to see a lioness carry her cub!
Prof uses a dry mud-wallow to teach the girls some tracks and signs.
We found one of the last dung beetles of the season.
Game drives are filled with a myriad of learning opportunities and the sponge that is a young mind is a perfect vessel to soak it all up!
Stella learns how to make rope from the bark of a silver cluster leaf (Terminalia sericea).
Some astronomy on the airstrip.
Granted, there are moments when their attention span may begin to slip somewhat. A quiet drive can be anathema to a curious young mind, but nothing a coffee or hot chocolate stop filled with all sorts of adventures can’t fix.
Oscar, our Bush Banqueting Chef, judges a game of Boules at a bush breakfast.
Zuri had me in hysterics as she put her all into pulling back the string of the bow at an archery contest.
And after the drive, the fun continues… Parents have the chance to indulge themselves in the healing house or a quiet moment by the pool in their rooms, while we keep the kids busy with a number of interim activities. Track moulding is a must, an excursion into the bush with their ranger searching for tracks of either lion or leopard. They then fill these in with plaster of paris, creating a great memento to take home and leave on the mantle or to show off to their friends.
Perfect leopard track to fill with plaster of paris, making a mould to take home and show off to friends.
Fishing in the river or a nearby waterhole is filled with squeals, laughs, and chaos of the best kind. Baking in Cubs Den means some treats on offer for the afternoon drive. The definition of “treat” may be bent or broken depending on how adventurous the baking gets, and all sorts of other adventures can be embarked upon by the more energetic of ages.
Zuri wins the catch-of-the-day after hauling in this monster catfish!
Stella wins the species competition by pulling in a tilapia while we were all busy with catfish. (Please ignore the double float situation, fishing becomes unconventional when attempting to manage 3 very enthusiastic fisher-kids.)
I recently had the privilege of driving an incredibly special family, the Naidoos, and I must thank Emma Collett-Naidoo for the awesome memories she captured of our adventure; they bring a smile to my face and a chuckle to my lips every time I see them.
Unfortunately, these three ladies lost an incredible husband and father recently. Sasha, you were taken too soon and I know your family will miss you dearly. Emma, Stella, and Zuri, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of such a singular man from your lives, he loved you three deeply. And you, him. May his memory hold you in good stead and, in time, help heal you.
Our heartfelt condolences from the Londolozi family.
For Sasha.
Looking forward to going on a safari with my grandchildren
You’ll have such a great time with the grandkids!
A great way for kids to learn a lot about nature
👍👍👍
Thank you for this heart warming story. So sorry to hear of the death of Sasha, but what marvelous memories and experiences he created for his family. They truly will never forget their time in south Africa at Londolozi.
Thanks Karen
Kyle, Thanks for sharing such a great reminder of how special Londolozi is for multi-generational families! We wholehearted agree! So sad to hear the end of the story and their loss – there are no words to express our thoughts, except to send our deepest condolences….
Absolute pleasure! It was a very special experience.
I’d like a leopard plaster footprint, if y ok u start selling them, me first ik
We’ll definitely let you know if we do Tammy!
Kyle, loved the photos
Thanks so much, Joan.
It is fantastic for a child to be able to see and hear and touch the natural bush and all that it reveals. There is so much to learn and their little breins can take in so much. Good foundation for a child for their future, especially if they want to go into conservation or being a ranger or tracker. Also it teaches them respect for nature and the wild animals. Condolences to the Naidoo family for loosing their loved one. Rob and Kyle you made those two beautiful girls’ day by spending time with them and letting them experiment with fishing and all kinds of different things. Well done!!!
It really is, Valmai. We do try hard to encourage some budding guides and nature explorers!! Thanks for your words.
Today’s article has memories for both Sasha’s family and the Londolozi family. You high lighted this family with different pictures of their children’s doing some of the many activities at Londolozi. What a wonderful tribute for this family. My condolences to their loss during this time.
It was such a fun trip, Linda! Thank you for the kind words.
I am so sorry for their loss. What great memories they will have from their safari together, forever.
Out of darkness, comes some light!
Thanks for sharing your special memory Kyle. It was so lovely, and filled with joy, as well as tears, both upon the experience you shared, and by your compassion and condolence to the Naidoo family.
BTW, the Leopard paw print was AMAZING! (was the ground real soft, or was the Leopard heavy footed amidst it’s walking and tracks?) Your composition creates a very touching and special feeling.
Thank you so much for the words. That ground was just the perfect consistency to form a deep track, perfect for moulding!
what a fabulous experience ! we have brought 2sets of grandchildren to Londolozi and they all adored the experience. Victoria
And we can’t wait to have you back here with them again soon!! Thanks Victoria.
Kyle, thank you for sharing this special family visit with us. Londolozi is a fantastic place for children of all ages to see and learn about nature and her gifts. These girls will never forget their adventures, nor sharing them with their parents. I’m sad your blog did not have a happy ending, but this family will keep these happy times close to their hearts thanks to you, Rob and the rest of the staff. My condolences to the Naidoo family and friends who loved and will miss Sasha.
Thanks for the words, Denise. Londolozi is an incredible place for younger minds to experience and to learn to appreciate these last wild places.
The most perfect age and special place for little people to begin their safari experience – quite magical. So sorry to hear of their loss.
Thank you for your words, Jennifer. It really is a very special place we live in here!
I cannot wait to bring grandkids on a safari someday! The magic and wonder and curiosity is wonderful through a kids’ eyes! And sadness and condolences to the Naidoo family.
Looking forward to one day bring my family, and creating brilliant, lifelong memories.
Beautiful article Kyle. We look forward to bringing Michael our grandson to Londolozi soon and having you and Prof take care of him .