I can't rate this trip highly enough - everything was just perfect.
Before the trip, Stacey provided a wealth of information and easily assuaged any concerns I had. She responded really quickly and with plenty of detail to any queries I had. On the trip, she was the most gracious and generous host, making sure everyone felt welcome, included and valued, and responding to everyone's different personalities. I was slightly nervous about sharing a room, but I had nothing to worry about - my "yoga wife" was wonderful! Having attended Stacey's yoga classes in the past, I knew they would be perfect, but the yoga on a deck at the game lodge with a giraffe walking by, the sound bath in a cosy room with a storm raging outside, the laughs during the aerial session, exceeded my expectations.
Both lodges we stayed in were perfect - the food was incredible, the rooms comfortable, and staff friendly and knowledgeable. At Elephant Rock, Marli the ranger shared her wide knowledge with us, delivering some unexpected and unprecedented sightings (a male and female white rhino sparring 10m in front of us, with the female's young in tow, who was so worn out with the excitement that he then took a nap in the middle of the road!; a large group of elephant, complete with youngsters messing about and a bull who eventually had enough of us, and politely asked us to leave; and two cheetahs making a kill were some of the highlights). The sundowners (pink gin AND pink tonic!) and morning coffee (with optional Amarula) on the game drives were some of my favourite moments.
Qambathi Mountain Lodge was also just beautiful, particularly the cosy lounge where we enjoyed after (and before!) dinner drinks and laughs. The horse ride into the mountains was magical, with the baboons in the distance and the storm on the horizon. The horses were incredible and a pleasure to ride. The hike into the mountains to see the cave paintings was also something I'll remember for a long time - beautiful scenery, great company, delicious snacks and the feeling of standing where others have stood for thousands of years. Also, don't miss out on a massage at Qambathi!
Nothing was lacking on this trip - Stacey had planned every detail to perfection with just the right balance of excitement, relaxation, free time, and activities. I'd have stayed twice as long in each location and (if my circumstances allow) would have absolutely no hesitation in rebooking. I left feeling relaxed, invigorated, pampered, and ready to slip back into real life with renewed purpose and positivity. Thank you, Stacey!!