Got a tough choice? Let me help you decide between a hot tub, a splash pool, and an elephant!

Hey, have you ever found yourself caught in a dilemma? You know, that moment when you just can’t decide between two amazing options? Well, let me tell you, I’ve been there too! And today, I want to help you figure out whether a hot tub, a splash pool, or even an elephant is the right choice for you.

The Tempting Hot Tub

First up, we have the luxurious hot tub. Oh, the allure of soaking yourself in warm, bubbling water! The sensation of relaxation as the jets gently massage your tired muscles… It’s like your own personal paradise. Just close your eyes and imagine the steam rising from the water, transporting you to a realm of serenity.

But wait! Before you make up your mind, let’s consider the splash pool.

The Enchanting Splash Pool

Imagine jumping into a splash pool on a hot summer’s day. The cool water enveloping your body, the laughter echoing through the air… It’s pure bliss. You can splash around with your friends, slide down the water slide, or simply float on your back and watch the clouds drift by. Ahh, can you feel the refreshing sensation already?

Now, hold your horses! We have one more contender to consider…

The Majestic Elephant

Yes, you read that right. An elephant. Picture this: you’re in the presence of one of nature’s most magnificent creatures. Its gentle eyes and massive presence leave you in awe. You can take a ride on its sturdy back, carefully exploring the world from a new perspective. It’s an adventure like no other, a chance to connect with a creature beyond your wildest dreams.

The Decision is Yours

So, my friend, when it comes to choosing between a hot tub, a splash pool, or an elephant, the decision rests in your hands. Each option offers its own unique experience and joy.

Take a moment to reflect on what truly brings you happiness. Is it the soothing warmth of the hot tub, the playful excitement of the splash pool, or the awe-inspiring connection with nature through an elephant? Follow your heart and trust your instincts.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong choice here. It’s about finding what resonates with you, what brings a smile to your face and a sparkle to your eyes.

So go ahead, embrace the adventure and choose what makes your heart leap with joy. Whether it’s the comforting embrace of a hot tub, the exhilarating splash of a pool, or the soul-stirring presence of an elephant, the choice is yours.

December brought a sense of satisfaction to us Gautengers when the president decided to shut down the beaches. Those who live along the coast have always bragged about their beaches, but us inland dwellers are left high and dry most of the time (although this summer was a different story, thanks to La Niña and Tropical Storm Eloise – our lawns turned into mushroom farms).

But who needs beaches anyway, when they can be closed off anytime? We have something equally extraordinary, if not more so, right in our own backyard.

Listen up, folks. I gotta be honest with you here. Getting sand all over you and having sunblock burning your eyes may seem like a blast, but let me ask you something. Is it really better than having a gin and tonic handed to you while chilling in the wilderness, trying to calm down after an elephant casually strolled by your safari vehicle, so close you could practically reach out and touch it? Now, I know opinions vary, but personally, I’m gonna have to say no. It’s just not better.

Hey there! I’m a masked ranger in the time of Covid.

Imagine this: you’re cruising along a muddy game track on a Friday afternoon, and suddenly, you find yourself in an elephant traffic jam. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

As a South African, I’m constantly in awe of our magnificent wildlife. Even with all the rain we’ve been having, it’s mind-blowing to think that you might come across a hippo strolling around in Fourways or a crocodile taking a dip in someone’s swimming pool. But it’s the elephants and rhinos that really take the cake.

Now, while we may not have beaches here inland, what we do have is the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos. And guess what? They’re just a short drive away from Johannesburg or Pretoria, in the beautiful Pilanesberg.

It’s embarrassing, but I have to admit that until recently, I didn’t know much about the Pilanesberg. The only reason it even caught my attention was because of Sun City. However, everything changed for me last weekend when I visited Black Rhino Game Lodge in the Black Rhino Game Reserve, which is part of the larger Pilanesberg National Park.

The entrance to Black Rhino Game Lodge

Wow! I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first laid them on the stunning hills of the Pilanesberg. They were so breathtakingly beautiful, with their rugged and rocky features. It felt like I was back home, surrounded by lush green hills.

Black Rhino Game Lodge is like a second home, but with the added luxury of a splash pool and hot tub. How cool is that?

But let me tell you, the warm and welcoming hospitality at Black Rhino is what truly stands out. Even though everyone is wearing masks and following strict Covid protocols, their friendliness and warm nature still shines through. The staff here are absolutely exceptional!

This is just one of the many things that sets Black Rhino Game Lodge apart from the rest.

Deck area, Nr 25, honeymoon suite.

But there are more reasons to come here, too. Did I mention the hot tub? Well, it’s a special kind of jacuzzi that’s powered by wood fire. It’s completely silent, so you can relax under the stars with the sounds of the African bush all around you. And if you start to feel too warm, you can cool off in the splash pool. The water is nice and cold, and it’s great for your blood circulation. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to forget about all the stress from living through a pandemic. And the best part? It’s all in the middle of a beautiful tamboti forest.

But let me tell you, the real deal is right here. Black Rhino is like no other lodge you’ve ever seen. It’s nestled in its very own exclusive reserve, which means that the game viewing opportunities are out of this world. And get this – your game drives are included in the price! How amazing is that?

Now, what sets this place apart is that private vehicles aren’t allowed. That might sound strange at first, but let me explain why it’s actually a good thing. Without cars driving around, there’s no rowdy behavior to ruin the tranquility of the game sights. Plus, it means that the animals aren’t as skittish as they would be if there were a bunch of vehicles around. In fact, they’re so comfortable with the roads that they use them quite often, which makes for some incredible sightings.

Imagine being out in the wide-open African savannah, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. That’s the experience you can have at Wildebeest Lodge. Located in a hilly region, this place is known for its frequent sightings of the elusive black rhino, which is so rare that seeing one is like completing a challenge. The black rhino is critically endangered, making it even more special to spot.

If you’re up for an adventure, Wildebeest Lodge is the place to be. But be prepared to keep your eyes peeled, as the animals can disappear as quickly as they appear. Leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs are all common sights, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the shy brown hyena.

Now, let’s talk about lions. They’re a different story – they’re everywhere! Our knowledgeable ranger, Kobus, tells us that lions are as common as a penny. It’s not unusual to spot them walking along the roads. So, if you’re hoping to see the Big Five, including the black rhino, Wildebeest Lodge is the place for you.

Ready for a game drive. Unfortunately, the lions were nowhere to be found that afternoon. However, we did have yet another incredible encounter with a mother elephant and her baby.

The sun was setting as we made our way back to the lodge. On our return, we passed a group of impala and some young male wildebeest. The evening was capped off with a delicious dinner, surrounded by the soothing chorus of crickets and frogs near the waterhole.

Can you experience the same sense of wonder at the beach or in another country? Absolutely not. We are truly fortunate to have the immense beauty of the African bush right at our doorstep.

If you show me a wildebeest, I’ll be thrilled.

I can see water all around me, after the recent heavy rain in the northern region. It’s such a beautiful sight!