We arrived after sunset and were welcomed by a heard of Springbok. They were running and leaping beside the car while we drove into the camp. When we got out our eyes were drawn upwards and we couldn’t believe them: millions of stars, so clear that we stood silent in awe.
This was how we were introduced to Thali Thali Game Lodge. It truly is an authentic breakaway in the midst of wildlife and nature.
I woke up early the next morning to explore. It was so incredibly quiet and peaceful, the only noise coming from the birds.
The early morning light was incredible, casting a golden light over the whole game farm.
Thali Thali Game Lodge used to be a working farm and after moving more than 250 mammals it is now home to an abundance of wildlife species such as: Oryx, Springbok, Bontebok, Wildebeest, Zebra, Giraffe and Ostrich – and so much more. The owners, Thys and Amalia, are a young married couple with a young family. Amalia runs the hospitality side and Thys does all the game drives.
The chalets used to be the farm labourers cottages and were lovingly transformed into stylish, comfortable self-catering accommodation. They also have B&B Luxury tents for a more romantic experience! The Farmhouse is perfect for those with a large family or a big group of friends who wish to holiday together.
We found the self-catering chalet very comfortable, there is a kitchen with a large fireplace, a room with 2 double bunk beds, a main bedroom with an en suite. There is a built in braai (BBQ) for each chalet, so bring your charcoal, wood and meat and braai.
Our game drive was at 10am, so we made our way to the restaurant for breakfast at 9am. The food was delicious, the staff were incredible polite and friendly and more importantly very patient with my 3 year old! Amalia offered to get her nanny to look after my 3 month old while we went on the game drive.
My family and I were so excited for our game drive and my son couldn’t wait to see the giraffe. The drive was approximately 2 hours long, and Thys really tries to show you all the animals. There are a few watering holes on the lodge and that is where we headed first. On the way we saw Springbok and Ostriches.
It was only 10am and it was already incredibly hot, I highly recommend taking water along as well as hats and sunscreen.
Thys is very informative and patiently answers all your questions regarding the lodge and the wildlife. It is important to be quiet on the drive as load noises scare the animals away.
My highlight was seeing the Giraffe family. The baby is about 10 or 11 months old and oh so sweet. Thys was able to get up really close to them and I got some great photographs of them!
We also saw some Oryx (or Gemsbok as I know them as), Zebra, Wildebeest and Bontebok.
After 2 hours, we made our way back to the restaurant, where we had some ice cold drinks waiting for us.
My family had a wonderful time at Thali Thali Game Lodge. We would love to return with more family and friends and make a full weekend out of it.
You can find Thali Thali Game Lodge on the R27 opposite the entrance to Langebaan on the West Coast Way Foodie Route.
Distance from Cape Town: 117km
Where: R27
Open 7 days a week | Free entry
R300/person for 90 min Game Drive (Booking essential in high season) R150 pp for children (5-12 years); Free Under 5 years
R150/person for Archery Lesson (Booking essential in high season)
Contact: (c) +27 (0)82 372 8637 [email protected] www.thalithali.co.za
West Coast Way is Your Route To Nature
West Coast Way is your ultimate gateway to experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Cape West Coast of South Africa. As a premium tourism brand, we offer six uniquely themed trip plans that promise an unforgettable journey: Cape, Culture, Foodie, Tractor, Berg, and Wild.
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Savour the delights of wine, craft beer, olives, and Rooibos tea tastings. Indulge in authentic Weskus cuisine and the traditional braaivleis (barbecue). Feel the thrill of swinging into Citrusdal on a zipline or challenge yourself with Cederberg bouldering. Rejuvenate in natural warm pools and embark on serene cruises across lagoons and rivers. Explore the diverse landscapes of nature reserves and a National Park, or embark on exciting game drives. Hone your skills in archery and angling, or amp up the excitement with sandboarding and quad-biking. Enjoy horse riding, immerse yourself in the unique San culture, and experience the vibrant Riel dancing. For water sports enthusiasts, kite- and windsurfing, surfing, and kayaking trips await. Go beach hopping, learn about bees and whales, and delight in birdwatching in a twitcher’s paradise – all within South Africa’s renowned wildflower reserve.
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