Shout it from the Treetops 1

Darren & Candice Lill, November 2016

 While searching for a honeymoon destination, I came across a mythical sounding place: The White Elephant. Intrigued, I Googled it, and after reading stellar reviews, I changed our initial honeymoon plans to come to White Elephant instead. What a great decision that turned out to be!

Upon arrival we were greeted by the lodge manager and friendly staff who gave us refreshments and took care of our bags while we absorbed our surroundings. All around the lodge is natural bush and an open vista over Lake Jozini to the beautiful Lebombo Mountains beyond, breathtaking!

One can't even see the luxury tents, which are discreetly tucked away and offer a sense of intimate privacy. There are only eight, all set well apart from each other which is fantastic for a honeymoon or romantic getaway!

Each day guests are able to choose two activities hosted by knowledgeable, professional rangers. We decided to sample all the activities during our stay: tiger fishing and safari boat cruises on the lake, elephanting, black rhino tracking, game drives and a guided walk. It would take too long to describe each in detail. All were superb and informative; we learned a lot about wildlife and had an amazing time doing so in such a pristine environment.

Daily activities are easily planned and balanced. The day starts with light refreshments and snacks before heading out on the morning excursion which ends around 11am where one comes back to the lodge for a sumptuous buffet breakfast. After that, one is free to relax, lie by the pool and just absorb the general peacefulness. High tea and more snacks are served around 15:00, where-after one embarks on an afternoon activity. Heading back towards sunset, one freshens up before wondering to the fire pit for pre- dinner sundowners with the other guests. We met some very interesting couples from all around the world.

In places like this, I feel totally relaxed and free. My mind drifts and echoes of Africa whisper through me raising a shiver of goose flesh in the humid air. Lost in the flames, surrounded by the sounds of the bush, I feel the pulse of Africa calling me which inspired me to write a poem I titled “Dream”. 

The dinner announcement breaks me from my reverie and I wrap my arm around my wife and we head over to an outstanding meal of kudu steaks cooked to perfection! Every meal we had was a culinary adventure. If one is into after dinner drinks, I suggest trying the home brewed “Mampoer” which certainly warms the chest on the way down. 

The short walk back to our tent in the dark with a torch is a mini adventure on its own, as we see and hear a myriad of nocturnal creatures along the way. The tents are 5 star, and we feel cozily sequestered for the night with all the amenities we could wish for including a Victorian style bath tub and an outdoor shower.

All too soon our stay came to an end, and with a sense of nostalgia we slowly made our way out of the park, hoping that one day we would be able to come back to experience the magic of the White Elephant once more.”

Best regards

Darren & Candice Lill