The sky has long been an object of fascination for me, I’ve always been mesmerised by the colours, movement and emotional connections we have to it. Presenting itself as an ever-changing palette of colours, the sky creates a sense of magic that draws people in, and nothing seems to draw people in like an African sky.
African skies are known for their magnificence and splendid colours, and I can’t help but agree as some of my favourite sunsets, sunrises, and star-filled skies have been witnessed here at Londolozi. In this blog, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite images that I feel truly capture the magic of Londolozi skies.
Sunrise:
Although I’m not much of a morning person, watching the African bush come alive in the soft glow of dawn is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. As the sun slowly begins to rise, the vast Londolozi landscape comes to life with an array of colours, sounds, and movement. The fresh morning air fills with harmonious bird calls and the buzz of insects. Loud rustles can be heard from surrounding bushes as the wildlife begins to emerge from their nighttime hiding spots. I couldn’t think of a more exciting way to start your day than by venturing out into the African bush on a sunrise game drive.
A silhouette of an elephant walking past a game drive vehicle, in the orange glow of the sunrise
Guests are met with a spectacular sunrise on their early morning game drive.
Head Tracker Jerry Hambana surveying the landscape, searching for wildlife during sunrise at Londolozi.
A picturesque sunrise scene over the Sand River.
Sunset:
When I think of a sunset at Londolozi, I think of vibrantly coloured skies, silhouettes and sundowners. As some of you may know, sundowners are a beloved tradition we have here at Londolozi. This involves stopping at a scenic spot out in the wilderness, and indulging in delicious drinks and snacks while watching the changing colours of the sunset sky. This time of day is also the perfect opportunity to capture some incredible photographs of wildlife against the backdrop of a fiery African sunset.
Nothing beats an African sunset. The horizon is set ablaze with warm hues of deep oranges and fiery reds.
A perfect silhouette of a leopard lying up in a tree, with a richly coloured sunset backdrop.
The water is a perfect mirror for the vibrant shades of purple, orange and pink of the sky.
The transitioning twilight sky boasts colours of violet, pink and blue, allowing for beautifully silhouetted trees.
The deep blues and purples of the twilight sky make for a beautiful backdrop to this magical bush dinner set-up.
I couldn’t think of a more perfect way to soak up an African sunset than by sitting in one of our outdoor Granite bathtubs while sipping on champagne in Granite Camp.
Nighttime skies:
Pure magic – that’s the first thought that comes to mind when I think of a star-lit African night sky. Unobstructed by bright city lights or pollution, the stars shine even brighter than usual in the African bush, revealing their full splendour. We deeply value connection with the natural world here at Londolozi, and stargazing is one of the best ways to do so. Gazing up at the night sky, you can’t help but feel connected with the vastness of the universe and the surrounding nature.
As the sun sinks below the horizon, the twilight-coloured sky starts to light up with stars.
Experiencing a full moon on safari is an unforgettable experience. You’ll view the surrounding wilderness from a completely new perspective underneath the moonlight.
Sitting around a fire, under a star-filled sky is the best way to remind us of the beauty of the world we live in, and to connect us to something greater than ourselves.
From the mesmerizing starry skies to the dazzling colours of a sunset or sunrise, the ever-changing skies you’ll witness at Londolozi will be sure to leave you in awe. Let me know what time of day was your favourite during your visit to Londolozi?
Megan, first of all the photos selected for your blog are outstanding. Looking at them, it’s impossible to select the perfect night sky. I’ve traveled to Africa for over 30 years and to this day I can’t choose my favorite sky – sometimes it’s an amazing sunrise with pink, magenta and orange skies or a sunset encompassing several layers of colors highlighted by trees or animals. Each day’s skies are different and I love them all!
Hi Denise, thank you so much! I’m delighted that you enjoyed the photos.
Megan, Thanks the reminder of the natural beauty of the Londolozi skies! We will look closer and take more time to enjoy them on our upcoming visit!
Hi Michael and Terri, I’m thrilled that you enjoyed it! We look forward to your next visit.
Hi Megan, I must say that I live at the North Adriatic seaside and see the most beautiful sunset I’ve ever seen in my life. Given that there’s no seaside in Londolozi, sunsets are really magical and my favourite are the ones you can’t see here where I live, such as the silhouette of a leopard on a Marula tree or a sky fully draped with a myriad of stars
Hi Francesca, seaside sunsets are also spectacular! I’m so glad you enjoyed those images.
I love all the photos of the different skies.
The African skies seem to be so endless, whether during the day or at night. They are just so beautiful and immense.
Really impressive all the time.
I couldn’t agree more, Christa. The African skies truly are magical.
I have particularly fond memories of dinner around a camp fire near the river, under the night sky, with Tayla, Kevin, James and Pete. Simple, yet also somehow sophisticated food served with delicious wine outside felt decadent. Yet the story telling and sense of community and kinship under the Southern Cross, around a camp fire was so primitive and natural. It was a beautiful juxtaposition. The stars put on a wonderful show for us, and we could hear lions roaring in the distance. “Glamping” at it’s finest.
Those are beautiful memories. Thank you so much for sharing them with us, Chelsea.
Megan all your images are absolutely stunning. The colours are spectacular and each image has its own unique style and colour pallette. So beautifully displayed in the African Sky. I am memorized with each image and I try to imagine myself being there.
Thank you very much, Valmai. I’m so glad you enjoyed the images.
All of your included photographs were great choices!!! Well done on a little spoken of Londolozi specialty!!!
Thank you so much, Bob and Lucie! I’m delighted that you enjoyed it.
Megan, the pictures are absolutely beautiful and capture the sunrise and sunset at Londolozi. Thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you so much, William.
Wow beautiful The leopard sunset is my favorite!
I have to agree, Mark. It’s a beautiful shot!
Yours was a magical journey thru photos and prose!!! Exceptional Post!
Thank you so much, Camille!
I love the morning and the excitement of a new day wondering what will unfold. The possibilities seem endless when the light is beginning to feel the sky in the air is fresh. Must also say that some of the best starry skies have been seen there and beautiful views of the Milky Way.
The clear skies of Africa are a joy
Stunning imagery of the skies at Londolozi Megan!!