Last morning in Cape Town already?! Obviously, we had to get in one more workout and sunrise. The hotel graciously packed us turkey sandwiches for a plane ride snack and we were off to the airport. We were so busy pouring our hearts into this journal for you all that we almost missed the flight from Cape Town to our next stop…the things you do for the fanz.

We arrived on our tiny plane to what seemed to be the even tinier airport of Skukuza. We were greeted by our guide and set off to find our new home, Tengile River Lodge. We spotted a few Impala and Kudu on the way, and arrived to an incredible view of the Sand River. We were so awestruck by the luxurious beauty of our suite that we temporarily forgot how to speak English and had to make up for it by taking a million pictures instead. It. Was. Insane. Indoor and outdoor shower, private pool, indoor sitting area, outdoor sitting area, espresso machine, full bar… first row seats to the elephants in the river outside our balcony… just WOW.

After a quick lunch and unpacking, we headed out for our first game drive. We were welcomed by Zebras, Giraffes, Elephants, and Water Buffalos. At dusk, we ran into the perfect surprise to wrap up the night – the most beautiful pride of 12 lions.

Back at the lodge, a pan-African al-fresco dinner under the stars was waiting for us in the traditional Boma. It was a circular area with a few tables, bonfire, and grills. The staff sang customary songs at the end and encouraged the guests to dance along. With all of Brian’s Pony dance rehearsals under his belt, you have to know he was out there leading the pack.