WineTots Family Safari: Limpopo & Mpumalanga

Hilary - The Winemom
Sep 6
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Discovering the Beauty of South Africa's Wilderness

This past holiday, my family and I embarked on a soul-soothing family safari through the stunning nature reserves of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. What a journey it was! From breath-taking landscapes to unforgettable wildlife encounters, every moment was filled with joy and discovery.

Split image: sunset, lion in grass, elephants by trees, tree by water. Text: Wildlife Getaway Winter 2025. Warm and natural tones. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

Our First Stop: de Stijl Hotel at Gariep Dam

We began our adventure at the lovely de Stijl Hotel at Gariep Dam. This charming spot served as the perfect remote stopover before we ventured deeper into the wild. The serene atmosphere and stunning views made it an ideal starting point.

Scenic view of Gariep Dam with mountains. A monkey sits on a railing. Inside de Stijl hotel, wine bottles are displayed on wooden shelves.

Embracing Nature at Honeyguide Ranger Camp

Our first major stop was the Honeyguide Ranger Camp in Entabeni, Waterberg. Early frosty mornings were warmed with delicious Amarula coffee, while evenings ended with South African wine at the bonfire under the African stars. What a magical experience!

Three-part image: moonlit trees at night, a savanna sunset with mountains, and people around a campfire under a starry sky. Text: Honeyguide Ranger Camp. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

During our days, we tracked wildlife through the greater Waterberg wilderness, trying to spot the Big & Little 5 with our ranger, Juan. The thrill of being so close to nature was absolutely enchanting!

People on safari in a vehicle and on foot with a guide at sunrise. A rhinoceros drinks from a waterhole. The landscape is grassy. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

A Warm Welcome at Leopard’s Lair Lodge

From there, we travelled to the Greater Kruger and Pridelands Conservancy, where our dear friend Anton hosted us at Leopard’s Lair Lodge. The hospitality was heart-warming, and the surroundings were breath-taking.

Sunset over a silhouette of a tree, a person arranging cushions by a pool, and a bottle of Plaisir wine with a glass on a table at night. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

Thank you, Anton and Eco Training, for yet another epic family bush experience! Your unique love and deep knowledge of the savannah ecosystem always enrich our adventures.

Split image showing giraffes among trees, a person with sunglasses, and dry landscape. Text reads "Gentle Giants @Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate." A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

Walking with Gentle Giants

What a privilege it was to walk with the gentle giants of Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating, allowing us to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Two people outdoors at a table with binoculars, a sunset over a river, and a tent interior with "Lower Sabie" text. Calm and scenic mood. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

Glamping Under the Stars at Lower Sabie Rest Camp

Our route continued south to Kruger's Lower Sabie Rest Camp. Here, we glamped under the shining stars, enjoying a delightful meal at the Mugg & Bean. We even caught a glimpse of the human Springboks playing rugby while the full moon rose over the Sabie River.

Person watching an elephant in water from a wooden hut in a grassy landscape. A camera is on the table. Sunny, peaceful setting. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves — Ntandanyathi Bird & Game Hide

We then made our way south through the Kruger, concluding our drive along the Crocodile River. This river is not only beautiful but also ecologically significant.

Three images of birds in nature; a bird at a pond, a dark bird near dry trees, and a heron on rocks by water. Text: "Birds of the Kruger." A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves — Kruger's amazing birds.. from the glorious Ground Hornbills to the water beauties, the Purple Heron & Jacana.

The Joy of Watching Nature Unfold

It’s always an amazing experience to watch nature unfold around us. Being one with the wild and saying hi to all the adorable little wild tots is a joy like no other. I’m already looking forward to our next visit!

A wildebeest by a tree, a herd of elephants in a grassy field, and two resting animals in dry grass, against diverse African landscapes. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves

Stay Tuned for More Adventures!

Follow our blog for the second part of our holiday, where we revisit one of our family’s most special places – Mount Sheba!

If you’d like to know more about our favourite family spots or book a bespoke event, feel free to contact me, Hilary, at hello@winetots.com. I’d love to help you plan your next adventure through the scenic routes of the Plett & Cape Winelands and beyond!

Scenic triptych: left shows sunset over hills and dry grass, center has feet by pool with people relaxing nearby, right is tree branches. A family safari through Limpopo & Mpumalanga nature reserves — Honeyguide Ranger Camp

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Click here to check out our previous blog *“Breathe, Bites, Bubbles & Bliss in the Crags”

Please note: all information is correct as of the date of publication, September 2025.