During mid-February we welcomed Rocco and Heike from Germany to camp for a short but unforgettable South African hunting safari. Rocco, a well-known executive chef, quickly became part of the family and treated us to a few of his signature dishes during his stay. Sam may have picked up a few culinary tricks along the way, although we still believe her famous kudu tender loin entrée remains the best in the business!
Despite the intense Eastern Cape summer heat, Rocco approached every hunt with determination and enthusiasm. February temperatures in South Africa can be unforgiving, especially for visitors from Europe, but he handled the conditions with true grit and never let the heat slow him down.
Rocco’s safari focused on several classic plains game species, including Blesbuck, Impala, Bontebok, and finally the animal that had managed to evade him on previous African expeditions — the Springbuck. Adding a Springbuck to his collection made the trip especially rewarding and was a well-earned achievement after multiple safaris in Africa.
The hunting was only part of the adventure. During their stay we were fortunate enough to witness several exciting Big 5 encounters across the valley at our Amakhala neighbours. We also made time for Heike to enjoy one of Africa’s most iconic sightings when she spotted rhino during the trip.
Although the visit lasted only a few days, it was filled with good hunting, incredible wildlife sightings, excellent food, and plenty of stories shared around the boma fireplace late into the evenings. Safaris like these remind us that it is not only the trophies that make an African hunting adventure special, but also the friendships and memories created along the way.
