The air was hot and dry. The heat hit me squarely in the face the moment I stepped out of the comfort of the air-conditioned van. I was expecting this. What I was not expecting was the silence. They say silence is golden, and this could not be truer for a city slicker like me. After the hustle and bustle of the big city, I welcomed the beautiful silence with open arms.
After a scenic two and a half hour drive from Cape Town, we arrived at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve. We were welcomed by Andre, Johan and various Inverdoorn staff members, sipping on crisp bubbly (yes please!) and chilled water before settling into our rooms.
Luxury Accommodation
The well-known Big Five safari destination offers guests a number of stylish accommodation options for complete relaxation. Designed to complement the arid beauty of the Karoo, the Tankwa Chalet was to be my home away from home for the night.
Each of the seven Chalets has a private patio facing the succulent cactus garden. The charming en-suite rooms (shower and toilet) feature wood-burning fireplaces, perfect for those cold, winter evenings, as well as air-conditioning for those very hot Karoo days. You will also find a fully-stocked honesty bar, tea and coffee station and a safe. Fresh, fluffy towels are supplied daily should you need them, along with plush bathrobes. I loved the added personal touch of a welcome basket filled with yummy treats and a bottle of MCC.
From the Chalet, you have easy access to the safari lodge’s facilities. Two swimming pools, two bomas, fire pits, an alfresco dining area and bar and indoor restaurant are all within walking distance of the Chalets. I found the overall ambience to be very relaxed and welcoming. So where exactly is the wildlife you may ask? They are not in the immediate vicinity of the main lodge area, but an exciting afternoon or early morning safari game drive with an experienced ranger will take you into the 10 000 hectare reserve to view the Big Five and other wildlife such as ostrich, zebra and giraffe.
After enjoying a delicious lunch in the restaurant, we had some time to hit the pool to cool down. There is a large swimming pool close to the Reception area and gift shop, and a smaller one with exquisite views over the vast Karoo landscape. This offers a more private pool experience and I could quite easily have stayed in the cool, clear water until sunset.
Time For An Afternoon Safari!
I have a confession to make. I could not remember the last time I had been on a safari game drive, never mind a Big Five safari! I am happiest when I am outdoors amongst nature, so the thought of seeing these magnificent creatures in close proximity sent my excitement levels through the roof.
I was most excited to spot the elusive leopard, but since they roam large areas and shy away from human activity, I was not so sure I would get to spot this big cat in the wild.
Our first stop took us to the Cape Cheetah Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre which was founded in 2001 and is home to a great number of cheetah. Prior to the purchase of Inverdoorn by Aquila Private Game Reserve, cheetah interaction and petting was permitted. This is no longer the case. Once the sale of Inverdoorn was finalized, all animal interaction was immediately stopped.
The rescued cheetah live in clean and spacious holding camps. Each morning, they are taken out into the veld in the reserve where they can run free, lie under trees or chase prey. In the early evening, a number of cheetah have an exercise regimen that forms part of their rehabilitation. They run for their supper, chasing a lure down a runway at up to 120km/hour. They are rewarded with their food at the end of the runway. This incredible sight is a privilege that guests can experience when they stay at Inverdoorn (there is an additional charge for this experience unless you have booked to stay in the five-star accommodation).
After viewing the slender cheetah for a while, we continued on for more game viewing and came across a graceful giraffe, lazily grazing amongst the thorn trees.
Next up were ostrich and a dazzle of zebra, their striking black and white stripes standing out in contrast to the muted shades of the Karoo bushveld.
Through the fading light, we spotted a herd of African buffalo, part of the Big Five, before stopping at the game viewing deck for refreshing Cruxland Gin sundowners. We were treated to an explosion of beautiful colours as the sun set on a truly spectacular and unforgettable safari experience.
Back At The Lodge
A blazing fire awaited us at the Boma’s fire pit where the Inverdoorn team greeted us for dinner beneath the twinkling stars – alfresco dining at its best! Relaxing with a glass of red wine beside the fire pit with the Milky Way glowing brightly above us, we chatted about the day’s amazing events. I was on an absolute ‘high’ and loving every moment of our Inverdoorn experience. Dinner was a delicious affair with the Springbok Carpaccio a firm favourite.
Our evening ended with stargazing on the rooftop of one of the Ambassador Chalets. I was mesmerized by the sheer sight of so many stars, planets and galaxies visible to the naked eye. What a special way to end a special day.
Rise And Shine, Time For An Early Morning Safari!
I am definitely not a morning person, so waking up BEFORE sunrise was no easy task. But very much worth it! It isn’t every day that I am spellbound by a magnificent African sunrise over the vast plains of Karoo bushveld, followed by another amazing safari game drive where we viewed giraffe passing by slowly, as well as rhino and elephant. The lions are in a separate enclosure and we sat in silent awe, watching them as they watched us. Fortunately, they seemed far too comfortable in the shade of a tree to pay us much attention.
Our stay was coming to an end, but not before we indulged in a hearty breakfast, alfresco style of course! We had some time to pack and take a few last minute photos before heading back to Cape Town.
Does Living It Up Recommend Inverdoorn?
Absolutely YES! This premier Big Five safari destination has made great strides with regards to sustaining the biodiversity of the region and is home to the successful cheetah conservation centre. The game reserve is home to a profusion of wildlife. Besides the Big Five, they also have zebra, hippos, wildebeest and springbok.
By re-introducing endemic species to the region, Inverdoorn has played a significant ecological role in South Africa’s wildlife conservation. The lions, elephants and calves residing in the rhino orphanage are all Big Five members that have been rescued by the Inverdoorn team.
It makes for an ideal weekend getaway from the city, and is the perfect safari addition to complement your Cape Town stay. Expect stunning Karoo scenery, unforgettable wildlife encounters with experienced rangers, a variety of modern accommodation, warm hospitality and delicious cuisine. This is a truly memorable safari experience.
I highly recommend staying for at least two or three nights to enjoy all the facilities they offer. PS. The pool is a great place to relax with a good book and cocktail! 😉
Yours in Responsible Safari Travel
xoxo
Please note – Thank you to Redlip PR and Inverdoorn for hosting me on this World Travel Market Africa media trip. All views are my own and based on personal experiences.
Image credits with thanks to the super talented Michael van Rooyen Digital Creative and Inverdoorn. My own images will be noted as such.
