Welcome to the first edition of our #SafariChat series! We’re using this space to get to know our much-loved guides and hear first-hand about the safari packages that they personally host. The Exclusive Journeys guides are renowned for their knowledge, expertise and warm hospitality—some of whom have gained widespread recognition through their television appearances, becoming household names!
Today we’re chatting to Cedric Dold, our resident Sabi expert. Cedric hosts our Jaci’s Sabi House package (due to launch soon), a luxury hosted safari in the heart of a premier reserve known for its prolific leopard sightings. In this blog post, he unpacks the Jacis’ Sabi House hosted package experience and what to expect.
Cedric is also a WildEarth naturalist and recognisable face from WildEarth LIVE interactive safaris on TV. Is there anything better than your entire safari holiday being hosted by a locally famous safari guide?!
Why do you believe guests should embrace the “go hosted” experience?
By going hosted, I feel that you would get more information about the area and the animals. Getting to know someone on a personal basis that stays in the country makes that experience much better and far more enjoyable.
What’s the standout feature of this package that you personally love?
You can tailor make your own package as you please and travel to different areas of the Sabi Sands. It gives you a better idea on how different the north is to the south and the east to the west. Variety is always important when coming to the bush! In addition, you get to spend your days with someone that has many years of experience in that area.
Can you give us a glimpse of what a typical day looks like?
- Meet for coffee or tea before sunrise safari.
- Then, we head out for a 3 hour safari. During the safari, we stop at a beautiful location to have a break and enjoy a cup of coffee and biscuits.
- After drive, we return to lodge for a well awaited breakfast.
- There is also a bushwalk after breakfast that’ll introduce you to the smaller things.
- High tea before sunset safari.
- After high tea, you’ll head out on a sunset safari for 3 hours. During the safari, you’ll stop for a sundowner somewhere beautiful and enjoy a nice beverage and snacks.
- Return to the lodge for dinner with a drink or two to celebrate the day.
Share some of your top wildlife encounters and sightings in this reserve/conservancy
We had 4 male lions chasing 2 males across the open area in front of the lodge. We followed them and located them on the road busy fighting. The 4 male lions had one of the two males on the ground and they were trying to kill him. The other male of the two ran off and did not return to help his brother. The Male lion that the four tried to kill eventually broke his back and killed him. The intensity of the whole ordeal was so powerful.
We followed a male leopard while he was looking for something to hunt. He eventually came across a termite mound that housed a family of warthogs. A warthog came bolting out and ran straight towards the male leopard. He grabbed the warthog but then out of nowhere, a second male leopard came in and stole the prize from the other male. The two male leopards were not pleased to see one another and started chasing each other leaving the warthog behind. The warthog got up and we think it got away. Again, a powerful predator moment!
In your opinion, what makes this area so special?
The variety of wildlife and the beauty of the environment is something really special. It’s all untouched—this is a place where you just forget about all problems.
Where do guests usually enjoy their dinners the most?
The boma of course! I always think boma dinners is a typical bush experience for guests to have a meal.
Are bush breakfasts and sundowner stops part of the experience – any cool added value activities?
Yes! It changes up for that experience being out in the wild. It’s all about feeling in one with nature. Unique activities include gin stops and pizza/jaffle stops for kids.
Can you recount a memorable and unique moment with guests and wildlife?
We stopped next to the Sand River for a sundowner. All of a sudden, a herd of elephants approached the river from the opposite bank. They all walk through the river towards us while we were all outside the vehicle having our sundowners. Told the guests to remain calm and don’t move too much. Eventually the elephants walk by us from about 10 metres away. Guests were loving it!
What’s your advice for guests preparing for a hosted safari package?
Expect the unexpected when it comes to game viewing.
Could you share some feedback from guests who have experienced this package?
Sure, here are a few testimonials from previous guests:
“The greatest experience that I’ve ever had with amazing sightings and great company. A dream come true.”
“Thank you Cedric, we look forward to chatting to you more.”
If you’re looking to join Cedric on a Sabi Sands hosted safari experience of a lifetime, then get in touch with our team.