Aquila Adventures: Part 2

Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve

Starry Skies & Intimate Encounters

After our exhilarating adventures at Aquila, we drove for about 45 minutes, journeying deeper into the South African wilderness to arrive at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve.

An exotic oasis in the middle of an arid desert, Inverdoorn is an even larger animal reserve than Aquila but has a very different, much more intimate feel.

By:

Chris Crampton – Managing Director for Europe

Franco Sessini – Director of Sales for UK & Ireland

(All photos taken by Chris & Franco)

A Winter Wonderland…in Africa?

Our arrival coincided with a dramatic shift in weather. Imagine our surprise when we were greeted by snow-capped mountains, howling winds and temperatures plummeting towards freezing! However, it gave us a chance to appreciate the cozy charm of Inverdoorn’s bungalows. Picture this: stylish accommodations with stunning views of the snow-dusted plains, all while snuggled up by a fireplace.

Despite the chilly weather, the beauty of Inverdoorn was undeniable. The swimming pool and public areas, though temporarily out of commission due to the weather, hinted at the oasis they become in the warmer months. We could practically feel the summer sun on our skin and envision ourselves taking a refreshing dip.

Cheetah Encounters

Before retreating to the lodge, we made a stop at the cheetah run. Here, rescued cheetahs are being rewilded, learning the art of hunting to prepare them for a life back in the wild. At the time of visiting their provided food is being reduced, so they supplement it with rabbits, birds and anything else they can find. It might seem harsh, but they are going to have to hunt and provide for themselves and need to learn how to do it. Watching these magnificent creatures chase at full speed was exhilarating.

Kuganha: Glamping Redefined

Inverdoorn’s charm is about to be amplified with the addition of Kuganha, a new luxury tented camp. Forget any preconceived notions you have about ‘tents’! These are palatial havens, complete with private spa rooms, full kitchens, outdoor hot tubs and breathtaking views of the reserve and a private lake. Kuganha promises an Instagram-worthy experience that will redefine glamping.

A Convivial Evening and a Promise of Adventure

Too windy to go into the reserve as planned, we enjoyed a convivial evening at the lodge, chatting with Johan and Charalize. The warmth of the staff and the delicious food made us feel right at home. Just as we were about to call it a night, something extraordinary happened. The relentless wind suddenly ceased, the sandstorms subsided and the vast African sky emerged in all its glory.

An Unexpected Stargazing Expedition

Seizing this unexpected opportunity, Johan and Charalize rallied the troops, including a delightful ranger named Memory. We piled into a safari vehicle and headed into the inky blackness of the reserve. As our eyes adjusted to the dark, the sky exploded with stars. The Milky Way is a sight that simply cannot be appreciated from anywhere near civilization. It was a humbling and emotional experience, made even more special by Memory’s gentle guidance as he shared his knowledge of the constellations, passed down to him from childhood. And just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, Memory surprised us with steaming mugs of hot chocolate, generously laced with a little something to warm our spirits. It was the perfect ending to an unexpectedly magical night.

Stargazing is one of the many activities offered at Inverdoorn, and we felt privileged to experience it. We drifted off to sleep that night with a renewed appreciation for the wonders of the African wilderness.

Dawn Patrol: A Chilly Safari Adventure

An early start, but the promise of adventure outweighed the pre-dawn grogginess. Wrapped in blankets and clutching hot water bottles, we ventured into the vast wilderness of Inverdoorn. With our guide Memory’s sharp eyes leading the way, the reserve gradually revealed its treasures—majestic giraffes (including a week-old calf named Christine), lions, rhinos, elephant, ostriches, springbok, buffalo, hippos, all roaming free within the vast Reserve. The golden morning light against the crisp air created an almost surreal atmosphere, turning every sighting into something truly magical.

Hours passed in awe, the chill long forgotten as we soaked in the beauty of the reserve. Eventually, it was time to return for a well-earned breakfast, warm up, and bid farewell to this remarkable place. With bags packed and memories secured, we left the serene wild behind and set off towards Stellenbosch and Cape Town.