Just a few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting this gorgeous soul on a spontaneous weekend trip out to Martha’s Vineyard. We instantly clicked and became fast friends, while under the same roof of our fantastic host! Best part? Not only did she move to LA last year, but she recently went on a beautiful trip to South Africa, and was kind enough to do a feature about it for Bonjour + Hola fans. Everyone, meet one of my dearest besties, Kayla Peterson!
Travelin’ Through the Eyes of…Kayla Peterson
I believe South Africa to be one of the most diverse and interesting countries in the world. Most visit for its natural beauty, wildlife and culture. I went in November with the company Chosen Experiences, and wanted to share my personal highlights and favorites!
South Africa’s immensely varied terrain supports a rich diversity of animals, birds, and plant-life, which offers an incomparable range of experiences.
My arrival into the community was marked by a dance and drum ceremony where I got to let go of any inhibition and reconnect with my inner child and spirit of cultural exploration.
The traditional Zulu dance is performed with drums and full dance attire made up woolen skirts and painted faces {usually bare-chested}, while being passionate about music, often using song and dance to express social and political ideas. It is derived from the war dances of the warriors. In the past it was performed before a hunt as well as before battle or coming of age.
South Africa works to preserve its wildlife with dozens of protected land and marine areas, including the famous Kruger National Park in the North, as well as nearly 9,000 privately-owned game reserves throughout the country.
Nevertheless, many of South Africa’s animals are hurt by illegal hunting and loss of habitat, and dozens of species are in danger of extinction.
The most memorable experience I had in South Africa was assisting in a medical examination and providing treatment to Mandy who survived a poachers attack and gunshot wound. After poachers took the lives of her family, she was moved to a wildlife reserve to keep her safe.
Another favorite of the eastern cape was surfing at Port Alfred, no wonder Billabong holds their annual surfing competitions there! I truly believe some of the best moments of our lives occur when we are stretched to our limits to accomplish something difficult, but so worthwhile.
A game drive in a reserve never disappoints – you are always sure to see some spectacular animals that will get your cameras clicking and your hearts racing. You’ll see magnificent local wildlife that may include mega-herds of elephants & wildebeest cooling off at a watering hole, while searching the branches for a lazing leopard, glancing through the tall grass as you gaze at lions, zebras, giraffes eating off trees. You may even get stopped by a rhino in your path – if you do, you will have experienced some of South Africa’s most treasured animals.
Take a day in nature and go Canyoning at Tsitsikamma. You’ll trek into an ancient forest and climb, abseil, zip-line, and jump down magnificent waterfalls even at one point you’ll be rappelling down a 21-meter rock face.
Hoedspruit, Limpopo is a South African province bordering Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It’s known for bushveld and wildlife reserves, including part of Kruger National Park. You’ll pass through so many villages that are worth stopping by especially the little shops on the road of handmade goods and to see.
After safaris and seeing the animals hit Cape Town for some incredible food, hiking, and more exploration…my highlight was seeing the penguins at Boulders Beach!
A way to begin your morning is hiking table top or lions head, both will have you on edge with the beauty that will be bestowed on your eyes.
Finally reward yourself with some world-class vino. The Cape’s wineries deliver breathtaking beauty of the magnificent landscape, accompanied with eye-catching architecture. Xx Kayla
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