For me, there’s no better way to start any day than heading out on a morning game drive before sunrise at Londolozi. Now just picture this, for some this may be easier if you have been on safari before but for those yet to go on a game drive you will need to use your imagination. As the hues of the early morning skies glow through the gaps in the riverine trees along the pathway, the pleasant aromas of a fresh pot of coffee are the first to greet you as you arrive on the Varty Camp main deck. Hot coffee or tea now in the belly, the next step is to wander up to the car park, greeted by your ranger and tracker there, you nestle into your seat on the back of the Land Rover. First light makes the road ahead just about all you can see in the early morning darkness ahead of you.
The dawn chorus and fresh air captivate your senses as the bush comes alive around you. About five minutes in, your ranger brings the vehicle to a standstill and switches the engine off. Without the need for any words, everybody on the vehicle is drawn to a feeling of presence, tranquillity and peace. The life in the bush around you soothes the suspense as you then hear the distant calls of a dominant male lion. The tranquillity is now accompanied by a true sense of complete freedom and connection to the natural world.
The morning sunrise over the Sand River is always a breathtaking sight. When the water temperature is warmer than the surrounding air it will often give rise to a misty haze. Switching off the vehicle and just sitting and appreciating the sounds, smells and views of what’s happening around you can be one of the most memorable safari experiences.
As the autumn sun begins to rise and the new day starts there’s a feeling in the air that’s quite hard to describe. The vast, open landscapes of Londolozi provide a breathtaking canvas for the rising sun, with colours ranging from deep purples and oranges to bright pinks and reds. As the sun slowly emerges from the horizon, the entire sky seems to come alive, with the sounds of birds and other wildlife serving as a backdrop to the stunning spectacle before you. It is a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature, and a truly unforgettable experience for anyone lucky enough to witness it.
The sun rises over a small herd of wildebeest cavorting in a clearing.
Shortly after we set off one morning we found the Ximungwe Female huddled up on a termite mound with the sun rising directly behind her.
We often take for granted the simple pleasures in life, such as watching the sunrise, sitting in silence, and using our senses. We get so caught up in our busy lives that we forget to stop and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. We rush through our mornings without taking a moment to witness the natural beauty of the rising sun. We fill our days with noise and distractions, leaving no room for silence and reflection. We go through our daily routines without truly experiencing the world around us through our senses.
By taking these simple pleasures for granted, we deprive ourselves of the peace, tranquillity, and joy that they can bring. We should make a conscious effort to slow down, be present, and appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world we live in. On safari, getting up early and beating the rising sun will be something you’ll always be grateful for.
Wildebeest pause their morning grazing as we drive past them but we had to stop to watch this beautiful scene as the day been with an insane sunrise.
Just the five-minute pause at the beginning of your morning safari is an experience that can bring you unparalleled joy and peace. This simple pleasure allows you to slow down, be present in the moment, and connect with nature. It is a reminder that there is more to life than the hustle and bustle of our daily routines. So, the next time you have the opportunity to witness an African sunrise, take a moment to appreciate it and let it set the tone for a positive and fulfilling day.
Dan Hirschowitz
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