{"id":7662,"date":"2018-02-28T14:23:39","date_gmt":"2018-02-28T14:23:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/AFRICAtime\/?p=7662"},"modified":"2020-07-09T13:53:10","modified_gmt":"2020-07-09T12:53:10","slug":"amazing-animal-encounters-in-africa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/amazing-animal-encounters-in-africa\/","title":{"rendered":"Amazing Animal Encounters in Africa"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7664\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image001.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7664\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7664 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image001.jpg\" alt=\"A group of wildebeest\" width=\"600\" height=\"396\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image001.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image001-455x300.jpg 455w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image001-207x136.jpg 207w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image001-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7664\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Wildebeest<\/p><\/div>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>Africa offers a wealth and variety of Animal experiences, whether it involves going on a luxurious safari and viewing animals whilst on a game drive or close up animal encounters such as tracking Gorillas by foot, walking with Lions and Cheetahs, or visiting Elephants and Giraffes in a sanctuary.<\/p>\n<p>Here are our favourite posts by some amazing travel bloggers about their experiences.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Kenya<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Kenya is an amazing Safari destination, and if you time it right, you can watch the annual Wildebeest Migration, which has even been named as the 8th Wonder of the world, as it is truly spectacular. We love The Safarist\u2019s experience of the Wildebeest Migration, which you can read about <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/isafari.nathab.com\/blog\/six-facts-about-wildebeest-migration-serengeti\/\">here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">You may have seen the now world famous Giraffe Manor featured on BBC 2\u2019s\u00a0 \u2018Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby\u2019 or photos from Giraffe Manor, all over Instagram. Our friend Luxury Travel Blogger Angie had an unforgettable stay at the Giraffe Manor, which you can read about <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.silverspoonlondon.co.uk\/2016\/10\/giraffe-manor.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here<\/a><\/strong>. Having Giraffes peek through the windows of your bedroom is definitely a once in a lifetime experience!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7666\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7666\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7666 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002.jpg\" alt=\"Giraffe poking head through window at breakfast at Giraffe Manor, Kenya\" width=\"768\" height=\"513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002-449x300.jpg 449w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7666\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: SilverSpoon London<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">As an alternative, and definitely one of the most unique high teas in the world, you can have <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/binnyskitchen.com\/2016\/01\/03\/afternoon-tea-at-the-giraffe-manor-kenya\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">Afternoon Tea<\/a><\/strong> on the lawn of the Giraffe Manor, in the company of friendly Warthogs and majestic Giraffes like Binny, Food and Travel Blogger, did. What a dreamy setting!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7667\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7667\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7667\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a.jpg\" alt=\"Hand feeding a giraffe at Giraffe Manor, Kenya\" width=\"768\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a.jpg 1468w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a-184x184.jpg 184w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image002a-90x90.jpg 90w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7667\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Binny Shah<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_7668\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7668\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7668\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003.jpg\" alt=\"Warthogs at Giraffe Manor, Kenya\" width=\"768\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003.jpg 1535w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003-184x184.jpg 184w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image003-90x90.jpg 90w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7668\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Binny Shah<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">If Afternoon Tea is not your thing, just next to the Giraffe Manor is the Giraffe Centre, a place you can visit to learn more about Giraffes, feed them, and if you are brave, even kiss them! Read about Lucy, author of The Travel Journo\u2019s visit to the Giraffe Centre <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/thetraveljourno.com\/2016\/10\/visiting-the-giraffe-centre-nairobi-kenya\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here<\/a><\/strong>. Spending time with Giraffes in such close proximity is definitely something to add to that bucket list!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7669\" style=\"width: 790px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image004.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7669\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7669 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image004.jpg\" alt=\"Hand feeding giraffe at Giraffe Centre, Kenya\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image004.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image004-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image004-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7669\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: The Travel Journo<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_7670\" style=\"width: 790px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image005.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7670\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7670 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image005.jpg\" alt=\"Giraffe at Giraffe Centre, Kenya\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image005.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image005-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image005-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7670\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: The Travel Journo<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">Kenya is also home to The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), founded in 1977 in memory of David Sheldrick and it is run by Dame Daphne Sheldrick and her daughter Angela Sheldrick.<\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">Visiting times are between 11:00am and 12:00pm when you can watch the groups of orphaned elephants during their feeding time, having their milk and playing with each other.<\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">You can also book private time with an elephant you have fostered during the evenings, but this is dependent on many factors so worth researching well in advance. The entrance fee goes towards their care.<\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">It is a must do if visiting Nairobi and some of the Bloggers who have visited The DSWT include Angie from SilverSpoon London, which you can read about <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.silverspoonlondon.co.uk\/2016\/11\/meeting-baby-elephants-and-the-david-\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here,<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0and Kenyan blogger Jaini from Jaini\u2019s Diaries regularly visits the orphanage and has fostered many of the elephants. You can read about one of her beloved fostered elephants, Mbegu, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/jainisdiaries.com\/2016\/03\/15\/mbegu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7671\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image006.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7671\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7671 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image006.jpg\" alt=\"Young elephants at David Sheldrick's, Kenya\" width=\"768\" height=\"513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image006.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image006-449x300.jpg 449w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7671\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: SilverSpoon London<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Tanzania<\/h2>\n<p>If you are considering a luxury safari for your honeymoon, Selous in Tanzania is an unspoilt gem and one of the largest game reserves in Africa. You are guaranteed to see elephants, as it has the the world&#8217;s largest concentration, as well as a large population of buffaloes, crocodiles and hippos, so a fantastic place to choose.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7672\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image007.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7672\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7672 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image007.jpg\" alt=\"Meal on the deck by the river\" width=\"768\" height=\"509\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image007.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image007-453x300.jpg 453w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image007-207x136.jpg 207w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image007-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7672\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Why Waste Annual Leave<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_7673\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image008.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7673\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7673 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image008.jpg\" alt=\"Crocodile\" width=\"768\" height=\"509\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image008.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image008-453x300.jpg 453w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image008-207x136.jpg 207w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image008-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7673\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Why Waste Annual Leave<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Blogger Shika, from the blog \u2018Why Waste Annual Leave,\u2019 chose to honeymoon in Selous and you can read all about her magical time <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/whywasteannualleave.com\/2015\/06\/03\/animals-safari-selous-tanzania\/\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>If you are considering Tanzania for your honeymoon, we have lots of information, which you can find here:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/tanzania\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/tanzania<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Rwanda<\/h2>\n<p>Rwanda is a country that has been blessed with natural beauty, and it is the perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts to have the experience of a lifetime, gorilla trekking.<\/p>\n<p>Kenyan Travel Blogger, Harpreet, had an amazing time on a gorilla trek in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda, which you can read about <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/harpreetswanderlust.com\/footsteps-in-rwanda-tracking-the-gorillas-in-the-mist\/\">here<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong>She said it definitely blew all her expectations.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7674\" style=\"width: 674px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image009.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7674\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7674 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image009.jpg\" alt=\"Gorilla in Rwanda\" width=\"664\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image009.jpg 664w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image009-199x300.jpg 199w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 664px) 100vw, 664px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7674\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Harpreet&#8217;s Wanderlust<\/p><\/div>\n<p>She was also fortunate to experience seeing the endangered <b><a href=\"http:\/\/harpreetswanderlust.com\/footsteps-with-the-golden-monkeys-of-the-bamboo-forest\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">Golden Monkeys<\/a><\/b>, in a similar trek, where you can spend an hour observing them playing, and swinging from tree to tree.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7675\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image010.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7675\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7675 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image010.jpg\" alt=\"Golden monkey in Rwanda\" width=\"768\" height=\"508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image010.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image010-454x300.jpg 454w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image010-207x136.jpg 207w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image010-462x306.jpg 462w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7675\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Harpreet&#8217;s Wanderlust<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If the idea of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda has sparked an interest, find out more on our website here, and we can help you put together the perfect trip:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/rwanda\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/rwanda<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Uganda<\/h2>\n<p>Although Uganda is one of Africa\u2019s smallest countries, it is home some of its biggest stars, such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and the thunderous River Nile. Similar to Rwanda, you can go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda too, and Travel Blogger Silvia, from Heart my backpack, has written about her trek <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.heartmybackpack.com\/blog\/gorilla-trekking-uganda\/\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7676\" style=\"width: 778px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image011.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7676\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7676\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image011.jpg\" alt=\"Gorilla in Uganda\" width=\"768\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image011.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image011-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image011-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7676\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Heart My Backpack<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If reading about her trek has resulted in Uganda being added to your travel radar, visit our webiste here for more inspiration:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/uganda\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/uganda<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Zimbabwe<\/h2>\n<p>This sub-Saharan country is one filled with natural wonder, ancient human history and fantastic wildlife.\u00a0 From the stunningVictoria Falls, or seeing the &#8216;Big Five&#8217; whilst on safari in any of the national parks to seeing the outstanding rock paintings in the Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe is a country filled with excitement, beauty and lots of culture.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7677\" style=\"width: 693px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image012.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7677\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7677 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image012.jpg\" alt=\"Lion in Zimbabwe\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image012.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image012-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7677\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Eppie<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Travel blogger, Eppie, had the adrenalin rushing, brave experience of a lion encounter in Zimbabwe, where you can get up close to the lions, even being able to pet them depending on their temperament, as well as being able to walk with them. Read about this incredible experience on Eppie\u2019s blog <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/eppie.me.uk\/travel\/africa\/a-lion-encounter-in-zimbabwe\/\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>If you are a big cat lover and the idea of a lion encounter alongside a safari holiday enthuses you, read more about our Zimbabwe holidays here and let us work with you to build a fantastic itinerary:<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/zimbabwe-holidays\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/zimbabwe-holidays<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>South Africa<\/h2>\n<p>South Africa has it all, from stunning mountain backdrops, and magnificent wildlife to colonial architecture and gorgeous vineyards. As well as amazing safaris, you can have various animal encounters in South Africa, such as visiting an elephant sanctuary like Sima from The Curious Pixie did. She visited the elephant sanctuary in Plettenberg Bay, which you can read about <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/thecuriouspixie.co.uk\/south-africa-elephant-sanctuary-plettenberg-bay\/\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7678\" style=\"width: 790px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image013.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7678\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7678 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image013.jpg\" alt=\"Elephant in South Africa\" width=\"800\" height=\"1065\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image013.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image013-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image013-768x1022.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image013-769x1024.jpg 769w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7678\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: The Curious Pixie<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">The lovely duo from Hand Luggage Only visited the Addo Elephant Park, which is approximately 30 minutes from Port Elizabeth. You can read about their fantastic time with the gentle giants <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2016\/05\/04\/afternoon-addo-elephant-park-south-african-must\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">\n<div id=\"attachment_7680\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image015.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7680\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7680 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image015.jpg\" alt=\"Lion at Johannesburg Lion Park\" width=\"640\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image015.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image015-240x300.jpg 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7680\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Bruised Passports<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">For an experience with the King of the jungle, you can spend a day with Lions like Savi and Vid from the blog Bruised Passports did at the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bruisedpassports.com\/wheres\/day-out-at-johannesburg-lion-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">Johannesburg Lion Park.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">For a seriously cute factor, you can get up close and personal with a colony of African Penguins that lives on Cape Town\u2019s Boulders Beach. The duo from Hand Luggage Only fell in love with these snuggly and very cute penguins and they highly recommend visiting the penguins while in South Africa. Read more about their experience <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2016\/02\/24\/how-to-visit-penguin-beach-in-south-africa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_7681\" style=\"width: 629px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image016.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7681\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-7681 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image016.jpg\" alt=\"Penguin on Boulders Beach, Cape Town\" width=\"619\" height=\"401\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image016.jpg 619w, https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/image016-463x300.jpg 463w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 619px) 100vw, 619px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7681\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo Credit: Hand Luggage Only<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">Do you love Meerkats? You will love Erica from Erica in Wonderland\u2019s experience with meerkats in Oudtshoorn, just north of South Africa\u2019s Garden Route, where you can see meerkats in their natural habitats. Definitely a unique experience to add to your adventure trip to South Africa! You can read more about her time with the Meerkats <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ericainwonderland.com\/2016\/09\/11\/adventures-with-meerkats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">South Africa is one of our most popular destinations and we can put together an amazing itinerary for you, ensuring you get the best out of your trip. Find out more here: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/south_africa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/south_africa<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\">To make a booking to any of our destinations, call us on <strong><a href=\"tel:020%208423%203000\">020 8423 3000<\/a><\/strong> or complete an enquiry form to receive a quotation from our booking experts.<\/p>\n<p class=\"yiv5061548411msonormal\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/booking-enquiry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" shape=\"rect\">https:\/\/www.somak.com\/booking-enquiry<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7684,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[440,121,604,11,443,395,30,444,24,90,1,38],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7662","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-culture","category-honeymoon","category-inspiration-africa","category-kenya","category-luxury","category-rwanda","category-south-africa","category-special-interest","category-tanzania","category-uganda","category-uncategorized","category-zimbabwe"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/small-5.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7662","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7662"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7662\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10988,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7662\/revisions\/10988"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7684"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7662"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7662"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.somak.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7662"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}