If anyone asks me what was the craziest thing I’ve ever done in life, it would probably be this, walking with lions in South Africa. Ooooh chile, let me tell you, I was shaking in my Pumas every step of the way, but it was an exciting and exhilarating experience. So how did this all come together?
The team at Explore Africa Tour has always gotten me to do things I swear I would never do! On our annual trip to South Africa, we decided to visit the Ukutula Lodge & Game Reserve nestled deep in the South African bush to do something a little different. The one hour guided bush walk with the lions is a unique experience offered at the reserve by experienced guides who have been with the Ukutula lions since birth.
At first, I was very, very apprehensive about taking part in this experience because this is something you only see or read about in the news, and not in a good way. After some internal battles, I decided to live life on the edge! P.S. You sign your entire life away with a waiver!
The scariest part about this entire experience for me was seeing the three lions walk out of their gates for the inial walk. Do you see the size of these lions? They were HUGE! While they appeared to be full-grown lions, our guides emphasized that they were young male teens. Female lions are not allowed on bush walks because they are unpredictable and do not follow instructions.
During the walk our instructions were simple, no touching, stay with the pack, don’t turn your back or kneel down. While initially scared, as the walk progressed, I began to really enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. We walked, stopped to feed the lions, saw them climb trees, play a little and was able to get amazing photo ops.
If you are looking to get the adrenaline pumping through your veins, walking with lions in South Africa is the obvious choice. If you’re looking to visit South Africa this year, join me as I head to Johannesburg on November 15-22, 2020 with Explore Africa Tour.
Would you try something as risky as walking with lions? You can watch the entire experience over at Youtube.com/SheSoMajor, don’t forget to subscribe! 🙂
