Ludo's Recent Trip to South Africa

The trip began in the Eastern Cape at Lalibela Game Reserve, and it set the bar incredibly high. Game viewing here was nothing short of exceptional; not only three kills in three days, including two by cheetah and one by a lion, but a caracal sighting as well.

Lalibela is home to six different lodges, each offering a slightly different style, and it’s one of those places that still feels like a hidden gem. What makes it particularly exciting is what’s coming next: the reserve is expanding, with fences being dropped to create a much larger wilderness area. This will only enhance the already impressive wildlife experience.

It’s also a great reminder to think outside the Kruger. While the big-name reserves are iconic, there are incredible safari experiences elsewhere in South Africa that deliver outstanding value and a more intimate feel. Lalibela is a perfect example and is ideal for first-time safari-goers or those looking to combine wildlife with other parts of the country.

From the bush to the coast, Cape Town never disappoints. The scenery alone is enough to rival anywhere in the world, but it’s the food scene that continues to steal the spotlight.

Highlights included Upper Union, which fully lived up to its reputation, and Belly of the Beast, a tasting-menu experience that was every bit as delicious as it was thoughtful. For sunset drinks, Hugo’s Social Club is hard to beat; arrive early, grab a table and let the views do the rest.

Accommodation-wise, this trip included a stay at The Claremont, a recently opened property and the first city hotel from the team behind Sabi Sabi Collection. It delivered in spades. The rooms are finished to an exceptional standard, and the hotel feels calm, stylish and perfectly placed for exploring the city. The bistro still needs a little fine-tuning, but overall it’s an exciting addition to Cape Town’s hotel scene.

For the final night, I stayed at Hippo Boutique Hotel; a brilliant option if you’re travelling on a budget. The location is spot on (just off Kloof Street), rooms are comfortable, and it proves that Cape Town doesn’t have to be expensive to be done well.

A few practical tips? Pre-book restaurants, especially if you’re travelling in peak season. Make the most of Cape Town’s incredible hiking opportunities, and don’t be afraid to use Uber everywhere; it’s easy, affordable, safe and reliable.

The final leg of the trip took me into the winelands, starting in Stellenbosch, where dramatic scenery meets some of South Africa’s most historic estates. A tasting at Lanzerac offered a wonderfully old-school experience; it felt classic, elegant and steeped in history.

A site inspection at Babylonstoren was another standout. The rooms are beautiful, the grounds immaculate, and the range of activities on offer is seriously impressive. While it can feel busy due to its popularity and commercial success, it’s easy to see why it works so well. With villa options available, it’s particularly well-suited to multi-generational travel. It’s also twinned with ever-popular The Newt in Somerset, which gives a good sense of the style and experience you can expect.

From Stellenbosch, the journey continued to Wellington, a quieter, more off-the-beaten-track wine region. Here, the pace slows, and the focus is firmly on small producers and personal experiences. Jacaranda was the perfect base, offering a low-key, boutique B&B with exceptional hospitality and genuinely incredible wine.

Visits to Val du Charron delivered jaw-dropping views, while Langkloof Roses provided the beautiful setting for a very special wedding and a fitting finale to the trip and a reminder of just how versatile the winelands can be.