🦛 Was Hippo Lakes Worth It?
Your first safari lodge is a big decision. For me, it was Hippo Lakes in South Africa—and here’s why I chose it (and whether I’d go back).
Why Hippo Lakes?
Another travel advisor I trust has stayed there multiple times and swears by it.
It’s in South Africa—no vaccines required, no bush planes, no intimidating logistics. It felt like an “easy entry” safari.
The stay is structured: arrivals on Sunday, departures on Saturday. No relocating multiple times mid-trip.
I could check a bag without worrying about strict weight limits (a nice perk for a chronic overpacker 😉).
And most importantly—it didn’t cost “an arm and a leg.” My clients (and I) tend to love boutique, intimate, local experiences over ultra-luxury $$$$ a night resorts.
What it was like: This isn’t a Big 5 reserve (so, no lions or elephants—yet). But it had the perfect balance of uniqueness, comfort, and authenticity. It’s not a huge hotel or glossy resort. Instead, it’s a place where you can feel the love for the animals, the land, and conservation.
The set rhythm of early drives, communal meals, and evenings listening to hippos became the best introduction I could have asked for. I walked away with a better understanding of what lodge life feels like—and what to expect next time.
Would I go back? Absolutely. I’d probably pick a different region of Africa for my next personal safari. But when I take my family? This is where we’ll start. I’d feel completely comfortable bringing my kids here (likely when they’re in high school), before adding on a few days in a more remote reserve to balance things out.
For anyone dreaming of their first safari, Hippo Lakes is the perfect launch point—immersive, accessible, and unforgettable.