A bucket-list experience under the stars

For a few years now, my wife, Naomi, and I have travelled quite extensively – our preference being bush lodges when taking a break out of town. We have created a bucket list of travel destinations, one of them being the Lion Sands Game Reserve. The main reason for this is their reputation to provide animal sightings like none other, especially of the elusive leopard.

We were extremely excited to visit Lion Sands Narina Lodge, which exceeded all expectations. I would go so far as to say that even the photos and 360-degree virtual tours on the website are unable to do this lodge justice! The way we were looked after by our guide, Butler, and the rest of the staff (including the General Manager herself) with the bubbliest of personalities was on another level and contributed to one of the best bush trips we have had.

The biggest highlight of our trip, and one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had, was the night we spent up in the Tinyeleti Treehouse. Halfway through our afternoon game drive on our second day, we were intercepted by another guide who became our private charter to the treehouse so that we could be in time to witness the most beautiful sunset over the Sabie River.

Our table, as well as the full perimeter of the treehouse, stairs and walkway, were completely lit up by lanterns, which created one of the most romantic settings I have ever been in. I think at this point my wife probably thought I was either going to propose again or apologize for something.

We sat sipping on our champagne, searching for ‘night eyes’ down at the river with the powerful spotlight left for us. The sounds we heard and sights we saw would imprint this experience in our memory as one of the best bush bucket-list items we have ever had. We both felt safe, warm, and extremely grateful for this experience.

The only negative part of our entire trip was having to say goodbye after the best three nights we have ever had in the bush. I would personally recommend Narina Lodge and the Tinyeleti Treehouse to any international or local traveler, as you will walk away with an experience and memories that are worth so much more than money can buy.

Michael and Naomi Catterson

The clip below is Michael's first-hand account of their night under the stars, and what creatures they encountered - recorded directly from the Treehouse.