From
Cape Town (CAPE TOWN: THE MAGICAL MOMENTS) airport, it was a two-hour flight to O.R. Tambo International Airport
in Johannesburg. Jo'burg, as it's affectionately known, is the largest city in
South Africa and a vibrant economic powerhouse. This city is a dynamic blend of
modern urban life and deep-rooted heritage (SOUTH KOREA THROUGH MY EYES & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS) Johannesburg played a pivotal role
in South Africa's fight against apartheid, with landmarks like the Apartheid
Museum and Constitution Hill serving as powerful reminders of the nation's
journey toward equality.
After landing, we traveled for about 45
minutes to The Lion & Safari Park. Situated in the Cradle of Humankind area
of Gauteng, this region is renowned for its archaeological and paleontological
significance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's one of the
world's most important centers of human evolution, with numerous ancient
hominid fossils discovered in its limestone caves. Nestled amidst rolling
grasslands and picturesque bushveld, the park offers a stunning backdrop for
its wildlife.
Established in 1966, it started as a small sanctuary and has
grown into a major tourist attraction and conservation hub. Initially focused
on providing a safe haven for lions, the park now includes a wide range of
African wildlife and plays a significant role in conservation efforts and
environmental education.
The moment I walked into The Lion and
Safari Park, my jaw literally dropped. I love everything about the environment,
nature, and wildlife. It was already so fulfilling. We queued in front of the
"Cub World" before each of us was allowed to enter the fenced area
for our turn to pat and take pictures with the adorable baby lion cubs. To tell
you the truth, I was a bit wary and nervous, but since I didn't needle or
irritate them, and instead showered them with tender, loving care by gently
stroking them, I did fine. Tadaa! Two to three minutes the most per person with
the cubs, then out of Cub World to give way to the rest waiting in line.
For the next few hours, we went with the
flow of what we preferred in the park. I, of course, was over the moon. I got
close to the animals, watched them from nearby, and stood there admiring them.
I ensured I didn't miss out on any type of wildlife. They are such darlings,
loving every one of them made it hard to let go (JAIPUR THE LOVE CITY).
But, time was up for the
8-kilometer, 40-minute guided safari ride for a real-deal experience of seeing
the rare white adult lions, famous for their part in the internationally
acclaimed and award-winning feature film "White Lion." Additionally, we were driven around to
pass by herds of impala, blesbok, gemsbok, wildebeest, springbok (South
Africa’s national animal), and zebra, and around enclosures for seeing herons,
egrets, cheetahs, and hyenas. Throughout this safari tour, we were reminded to
keep our volume down and stay alert to what the guide was saying. My goodness! What an experience of a
lifetime. It felt truly meaningful, I felt truly blessed to have come this far,
and I also felt it was worth every cent.
Subsequently, we arrived at Dros in
Kempton Park for lunch. A well-known landmark throughout South Africa, Dros is
famous for its extensive wine selection and large TV screens showing live
sports, while kids can be entertained in the "Kidz Play Areas." None
of us were interested in wine, though a few opted for beer. We tucked into our
pre-arranged lunch, choosing between steak, fish, and lamb chops. The big
eaters managed to finish off their hearty portions, while others, like me,
struggled. The meal, starting with soup and ending with super-rich creamy
vanilla chocolate ice cream, was appreciated but a bit too rich.
After lunch,
we idled our time at nearby roadside shops, doing a bit of street shopping
before heading back to the hotel for some leisure time. Dinner was arranged at a Chinese
restaurant, the name of which I completely forgot in my excitement for Chinese
food. It was a truly delightful meal, lavish and delicious, featuring steamed
scallops, butterfly prawns, and a veggie dish with salted eggs and preserved
eggs that had me all up and above. Oh my, simply irresistible for a typical
Malaysian Indian lady who loves such Chinese dishes.
Next, it was back to the hotel, looking
forward to what was in store for the next day in Johannesburg.
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