It’s almost time for your first safari getaway to South Africa. You’ve done your research and, after much deliberation, have settled on a Leopard Hills safari in the iconic Sabi Sand. Thank you for trusting us with this exciting journey! We have no doubt that you will love every minute of your stay – infused as it is with a brand of luxury that is both elegant and comfortable.

By browsing through our social media pages and older blog posts, you’ll get an idea of what awaits you on safari: thrilling wildlife encounters (with a particular focus on incredible leopard sightings), plush accommodations and amenities, delicious bush cuisine, and bespoke service. But there are some things that only experience can teach you.

Let’s talk about five surprising things nobody tells you about safari.

In most of our weekly routines, we dread early wake-ups and relish the days we can lie in. On a Leopard Hills safari, you’ll find it’s quite the opposite!

When a day of adventure and beauty awaits, getting out of bed miraculously gets easier – go figure.

The reason for your early wake-up call is, of course, your morning game drive. Game is most active at first light, and so we aim to get you up and on the vehicle as dawn breaks. At this time of day, the world feels brand new. Even if you’re still a little sleepy, we promise that the beauty of your surroundings alone will banish all thoughts of sleep.

From our side, we’ll make sure you get some coffee in your system as soon as possible, with a beautiful coffee stop along the way (paired with some delicious snacks!). In the winter months, we’ll also keep you warm with extra blankets, but we do recommend bringing a beanie, gloves, and a warm jacket.

After a few nights, as your body rediscovers its natural circadian rhythm, you might even find yourself waking up automatically.

Yes, like the Simon and Garfunkel song.

You might not realise it until you’re in the bush, but there are very few times in life when we experience complete silence. Out here, kilometres away from any urban noise — especially in the stillness of the night — you’ll experience silence in all its splendid fullness.

This absence of sound, aside from the occasional call of a nocturnal animal, may feel strange at first, but it has an incredibly soothing effect on your senses. During your stay, you’ll soon come to appreciate that silence really does have a sound.

The primary reason for any safari is to see wild animals in their natural habitat.

In the lead-up to your bush getaway, you’ll likely imagine the wildlife you hope to see – from big cats to mighty elephants and everything in between. And while you might anticipate delight, nothing can quite prepare you for the raw emotion of seeing something that holds deep personal significance.

Our guides treasure those moments when they can show guests an animal that’s dear to their hearts – and yes, there have been tears!

While nature can seem unforgiving at times, there is no malice in it, which makes the animals you’ll encounter feel profound in their innocence. That first glimpse of a lion, or time spent with a herd of elephants, is truly moving – even for the most seasoned safari-goer.

Sundowners are a quintessential safari experience.

Before heading back to camp on your afternoon game drive, your guide will pick a scenic spot to stop for a drink or two as the sun goes down. It’s not just a drink, it’s a ritual. A moment to pause, reflect, and soak in the magic of the African bush.

Once you stop, watch in amazement as an ad-hoc bar appears in the middle of nowhere, complete with your drink of choice, some tasty snacks, and panoramic views that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. It doesn’t really matter what you sip on (though G&Ts are the classic choice), because somehow, everything just tastes better out here.

It might be the fresh air. It might be the quiet. It might be the deep sense of calm that settles in after a day of adventure, but we can almost guarantee that you’ll sleep more soundly at Leopard Hills than you have in a long time.

Out here, far from traffic noise and glowing screens, your body starts to unwind in a way that feels almost instinctual. Add to that our beautifully appointed suites with king-size beds, soft linens, and the soothing hum of the bush outside your window—and you’re in for a truly restorative rest.

Don’t be surprised if you start turning in a little earlier than usual. With early morning game drives and lazy afternoons to look forward to, your days will be perfectly balanced between excitement and relaxation. You’ll drift off easily, often with the distant call of a hyena or a lion’s roar as your bedtime lullaby.

Many guests tell us that they haven’t slept so well in years!

With each moment offering surprise, serenity and connection, your first Leopard Hills safari will stay with you long after you leave.

Browse our accommodation options and book your trip online.

Alternatively, get in touch with us at book@leopardhills.com and we’d be happy to help yoou arrange everything, from check-in to transfers.