Ever wondered what it’s like to spot rhinos at a gas station on the way to safari? Join Heidi and Melissa as they record live-ish from The Palace of the Lost City in Sun City South Africa. There at a conference with Envoyage, the duo share their unforgettable journey through South Africa, so far, from exploring Kruger National Park and witnessing the Big Five to a spa treatment in Johannesburg. Along the way, they swap long-haul flight survival tips, dive into local cuisine (yes, even mopane worms!), and reveal what it’s really like navigating baboons, jet lag, and bucket-list adventures.

Key Takeaways

• Safari Highlights: Firsthand stories of spotting the Big Five in Kruger National Park and private game reserves.

• Travel Tips: Practical advice for long-haul flights, overcoming jet lag, and preparing for safaris in South Africa.

• Cultural Experiences: Insights into local cuisine, wine, and what to expect when staying at lodges or visiting Sun City.
  

Resources:

G Adventures – National Geographic Journeys

Kruger National Park official site

Sun City Resort official site (Palace of the Lost City)CDC Travel Health page for South Africa (vaccinations, health & safety info)

Connect with Hosts:

This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/ 

Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/ 

Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/

Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/ 

Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel 

Key Episode Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Welcome to Theme Parks and Passports

[00:01:00] Introduction from Heidi and Melissa at the Palace of the Lost City, Sun City

[00:01:37] Surviving the 15-hour direct flight to Johannesburg with travel tips for long-haul comfort

[00:03:26] Exploring Johannesburg and the journey to Kruger National Park

[00:04:20] Safari highlights at Kruger: elephants, giraffes, zebras, and Cape buffalo

[00:04:53] Private game reserve adventures and spotting the Big Five

[00:05:42] Plans for a hot air balloon safari at sunrise

[00:06:21] First impressions of Johannesburg, hotels, and sampling local food and wine

[00:07:15] Traditional South African cuisine: braai dinner, mopane worms, antelope stew, and Chenin Blanc

[00:08:46] Travel surprises: water safety, jet lag, and unexpected landscapes

[00:10:16] Encounters with wildlife near lodges and tips for baboon-proofing your stay

[00:11:22] Where to follow Heidi and Melissa for trip updates and travel inspiration

Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukulele Trip Version 60s