Reconnect and Rediscover: The Bespoke Safari Experience in the Heart of the African Bush Voted Best Game Lodge South Africa Experience of 2024 By Alive Guests

Niklaus and his family from Switzerland recently embarked on an unforgettable adventure—a week-long luxury private safari in the heart of the African bush with their very own custom created off grid camp.

This wasn’t just any ordinary family vacation; having been on Safari many times the brief to Alive Luxe was to curate and experience designed to offer an immersive ultra private safari camp experience off the beaten track and a profound connection with nature in the middle of no where.

The family’s private safari was set up exclusively for them, with every detail flown in and set up to create an environment free from modern distractions. This unique setting allowed them to truly immerse themselves in the wild with a premium level of privacy and no contact with society.

Guided by a professional animal communicator, trekkers and guides, security, accompanied by private chefs and service staff, and supported by a wellness coach who instilled intention and mindfulness into each day, Niklaus and his family embarked on a journey of serenity, discovery, and genuine connection with the African wilderness.

Join us as we delve into their remarkable experience—a chance to discover the magic of a true detox from the world on safari whilst still enjoying the ultimate level of luxury.

The Creation of a Private Safari Oasis - The Best Game Lodge South Africa Experience Voted By Alive Elite Guests

The adventure began with the creation of Niklaus and his family’s exclusive private safari camp—a luxurious retreat nestled deep within the African bush.

The Alive Luxe Logistics team specializes in creating bespoke experiences, and their latest project involved the creation of a private luxury custom-built safari camp in South Africa for a high net worth family. This exclusive camp embodies rustic luxury, seamlessly blending comfort with the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. The family have visited some of the best game lodges in South Africa but this time wanted to opt for a custom created safari camp designed only for them.

Key features of the camp include:

• Custom Design: Each element of the camp is tailored to the family's preferences, ensuring a unique and personal touch including transporting all camp materials on site in a secluded location.

• Eco-Friendly Materials: The camp is constructed using sustainable materials that harmonize with the surrounding environment.

• Luxury Accommodations: Spacious tents equipped with high-end furnishings, private eco bathrooms, and stunning views of the landscape.

• Gourmet Dining: A personal chef prepares exquisite meals using locally sourced ingredients, offering a taste of South African cuisine.

• Exclusive Experiences: Customized safari adventures, including guided game drives, bush walks, and animal trekking experiences.

• Wellness Amenities: On-site massage services and wellness sessions to enhance relaxation and rejuvenation in nature.

• Helicopter In: Venturing into the site by air with the full team on site ready to support

This private safari camp offers an unparalleled experience, combining adventure with the luxury and comfort that the family desires.

Every element of the camp was carefully planned and flown in, blending comfort with the untamed beauty of the wilderness. Free from Wi-Fi and modern distractions, the camp was intentionally designed for a true digital detox experience.

Spacious tents, outfitted with plush furnishings, offered panoramic views of the African landscape. A communal dining area became the heart of the family’s shared experiences. With solar-powered lighting and eco-friendly amenities, the camp embraced sustainable luxury.

This bespoke setup allowed the family to disconnect from the digital world, fostering an environment where they could reconnect with each other and the natural world around them. The private camp became the serene base for their extraordinary safari adventure, creating unforgettable memories in the heart of the African wilderness.

Disconnecting for a True African Bush Retreat

Embracing the opportunity to unplug from technology, Niklaus and his family immersed themselves fully in the natural beauty of the African bush. Without the constant ping of emails or social media updates, they found themselves truly present in each moment. Mornings began with the gentle wake-up call of birdsong, not the jarring sound of an alarm clock. The days were spent tracking wildlife, learning bushcraft, and sharing meaningful conversations, reading books, strumming away on guitar and cooking up feasts with their private chef or enjoying a luxurious massage.

Evenings brought the warmth of the campfire, stargazing, and listening to the symphony of nocturnal sounds that filled the air. This digital detox allowed the family to rediscover the art of true connection—both with each other and with the natural world. By stepping away from the pull of technology, they found space for wonder, reflection, and a renewed appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures, offering them a refreshing break from the demands of modern life.

Immersed in the Serenity of the Bush

As Niklaus and his family settled into their digital detox safari, they were enveloped by the calm rhythms of the African bush. Free from the distractions of modern life, they tuned into the subtle symphony of nature—the rustle of leaves in the breeze, the distant call of a lion, the gentle lapping of water at a nearby watering hole. This immersion into the serenity of nature had a profound impact on their well-being.

Stress melted away, replaced by a sense of calm and presence. They practiced mindfulness during guided bush walks, feeling the earth beneath their feet and the warmth of the African sun on their skin. Sunset yoga sessions, meditation and breathwork by the campfire further deepened their connection to the natural world. This luxury safari was not just about observing wildlife; it was a restorative experience that left the family feeling rejuvenated and at peace, forging a deeper bond with both nature and one another.

A Unique Dialogue with the Wild

One of the most unique aspects of Niklaus and his family’s luxury safari was the presence of a professional animal communicator. This expert guided the family through a fascinating exploration of animal behavior, helping them understand the emotional lives of the creatures they encountered. During game drives and walking safaris, the communicator shared insights into the animals' behaviors, vocalizations, and body language. In a particularly memorable moment, the communicator helped facilitate a profound connection between the family and a herd of elephants at a watering hole. Niklaus’s children, especially, were captivated, learning about the complex social structures and remarkable intelligence of African wildlife claiming it was 'better than netflix'. This innovative approach to wildlife interaction enriched their safari experience and fostered a sense of kinship with the animals, leaving them with lasting memories.

Gastronomic Adventures in the Wilderness

No luxury experience would be complete without exceptional food, and Niklaus and his family’s safari was no exception. With private chefs on hand, every meal was a celebration of flavor and creativity. Each day brought new culinary delights, blending international flavors with authentic African specialties. Breakfasts featured freshly baked pastries and tropical fruits, enjoyed as the sun rose over the savannah. Lunches were surprise picnics, set up in breathtaking locations, from shaded acacia groves to panoramic hilltops. Dinners were elaborate affairs under the stars, featuring multiple courses paired with select South African wines. The chefs also incorporated bush ingredients and traditional cooking methods, offering the family a truly unique taste of Africa. This culinary journey added an extra layer of luxury to their safari, proving that world-class dining can thrive even in the heart of the wilderness.

A Sanctuary of Mindfulness and Healing

The presence of a dedicated wellness coach elevated Niklaus and his family’s retreat into a holistic experience for both mind and body. Every morning began with intention-setting and gentle yoga as the African landscape came to life around them. Throughout the stay, the wellness coach led mindfulness walks, encouraging the family to engage all their senses in the wild environment. Afternoon meditation sessions, often held in peaceful settings like a dry riverbed or atop a kopje, allowed the family to process the day's experiences and deepen their connection to nature. In the evenings, guided relaxation exercises under the starlit sky promoted restful sleep. These wellness activities not only enhanced the family’s digital detox but also equipped them with tools to maintain a sense of calm and presence long after their safari. This holistic approach made the safari truly transformative.

The Magic of the African Night Sky

As the African night sky unfolded, Niklaus and his family were treated to a mesmerizing stargazing session, offering them an opportunity to connect with the vastness of the universe. A professional astronomer joined the family, setting up a powerful telescope by the campfire. Under the clear African sky, they gazed at a brilliant array of stars, planets, and constellations.

The astronomer guided them through the night sky, pointing out the Southern Cross, the Milky Way, and various planets, while sharing fascinating myths and stories from African folklore. The children were especially enthralled, catching glimpses of Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s moons, sparking their curiosity and imagination. This celestial experience not only deepened their appreciation for the natural world but also underscored the magic of disconnecting from technology to embrace the mysteries of the universe. The stargazing session was a perfect finale to their digital detox safari, leaving them with a renewed sense of awe and a deeper connection to the cosmos.

A Life-Changing Escape: Reconnecting with Nature and Each Other

The trip was truly life-changing for Niklaus and his family, as it offered them a rare opportunity to fully disconnect from the noise and distractions of daily life. In the heart of the African bush, surrounded by nature’s raw beauty, they found a deeper connection with each other, with themselves, and with the world around them. The absence of technology allowed them to be fully present, rediscovering the art of mindfulness and truly living in the moment. The immersive experience—guided by wellness coach Christie and enhanced by the profound wisdom of the animal communicator—provided them with a transformative reset, helping them find inner peace, release stress, and embrace a simpler, more intentional way of living. By the end of the week, they left not only with unforgettable memories but with a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world and their place within it.

The Itinerary

7-Day Luxury Safari Itinerary: Niklaus and Family’s Transformative African Adventure

Day 1: Arrival at the Airport and Immersion into the Bush

• Arrive into Johannesburg international airport where a private transfer awaits to take the family to their exclusive safari camp.

• Enjoy the scenic drive through the African countryside, arriving at their bespoke, private safari camp nestled in the heart of the bush.

• A warm welcome with drinks, a briefing on the camp’s amenities, and an introduction to the wellness coach, Christie.

• Christie introduces the family to mindfulness techniques and a grounding yoga session to help them settle into the serene environment.

• Enjoy a gourmet dinner under the stars, featuring both African specialties and international delicacies.

Day 2: Disconnecting and Exploring the Wilderness

• Start the day with an energizing yoga session led by Christie, designed to align body and mind for the day ahead.

• Embark on a guided bush walk, learning about local plants, wildlife, and survival skills, with Christie emphasizing mindfulness and connection to nature.

• Head out on a game drive with a professional animal communicator, gaining insights into animal behaviors and emotional connections.

• Relax around the campfire in the evening for storytelling, followed by a stargazing session to appreciate the breathtaking African night sky.

Day 3: Wildlife Tracking and Bushcraft Skills

• Begin the day with a restorative yoga practice led by Christie to promote relaxation and mental clarity.

• Take part in a wildlife tracking session, where the family learns how to identify animal tracks and understand the surrounding environment.

• Enjoy some free time in the afternoon, with optional wellness activities such as a nature walk, guided meditation, or a private session with Christie.

• End the day with a lavish dinner featuring fresh, local ingredients and a relaxation session to wind down and reflect on the day.

Day 4: Elephants and Animal Communication

• Start with yoga and breathing exercises to prepare for the day’s adventures.

• Visit a nearby watering hole, where they observe a herd of elephants and other wildlife, learning about their behavior and social dynamics from the animal communicator.

• Enjoy a mindful walk through the bush, reflecting on the experiences of the morning.

• The evening culminates with another indulgent dinner followed by a calming meditation session under the stars with Christie.

Day 5: Gourmet Dining and Cultural Exploration

• Begin the day with a yoga session to set intentions and create inner calm.

• Head out for a surprise picnic lunch set in a breathtaking location, with Christie encouraging mindfulness to truly savor the experience.

• In the afternoon, the family learns about the local culture and traditions, with a focus on the history and heritage of the land.

• Relish a multi-course dinner under the stars, with a mix of traditional African dishes and fine dining, followed by a peaceful meditation session to promote relaxation.

Day 6: Wellness and Mindfulness Focus

• Start with a rejuvenating yoga session focused on stretching, flexibility, and relaxation.

• Take part in a guided mindfulness walk, where Christie encourages the family to engage deeply with the natural surroundings.

• In the afternoon, engage in a meditation session at a serene spot, such as a dry riverbed or a kopje, followed by free time for personal reflection or a quiet rest.

• The day ends with a leisurely game drive and a tranquil dinner, followed by a guided relaxation exercise to promote peaceful sleep.

Day 7: Celestial Journey and Departure

• Begin the final day with a morning yoga session led by Christie, focused on gratitude and reflection.

• Participate in a stargazing session with a professional astronomer, where they explore the Southern Cross, Milky Way, and other celestial wonders, with Christie guiding a meditation to deepen their connection to the universe.

• In the late afternoon, the family is transferred back to the airport, reflecting on the transformative experiences and cherished memories from the safari.

• Depart for airport via private transfers, leaving with a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and a deep connection to nature.

Inclusions and Pricing

• 6 Nights in Bespoke Luxury Safari Camp

• All Meals, Drinks & Snacks

• Private Chef and Custom Menu

• Private Safari Guide

• Private Animal Communicator

• Wellness Coach and Facilitator

• Guided Tours and Safaris

• Private Trekker and Game Drives

• Internal Flights/Transfers to and From Safari

• Pricing: $3,928 Per Person/Per Night

Not Included

Air Travel to South Africa

Testimonial from Niklaus

We've done Safari many many times. So we were aware of it's magic. A friend recommended Alive after attending a retreat for burn out. I knew it was time to head back to the bush but this time I wanted something different. My wife and I lead very high stress jobs and we really wanted to be completely alone and off grid. We still can't believe the detail that Alive went to in creating exactly what we wanted. We weren't even sure if it was possible!

Disconnecting from technology was the first step and you would think that the kids or us would hate it and be bored but to our surprise it was the complete opposite. Without the constant pull of screens, we were able to be fully present—not just with each other, but with the animals. of course and the stunning views around us. The highlight was waking up to slow meditations and eating the best breakfast you could imagine. We have never laughed so much and the kids were just in awe of our guides and 'animal whisperers'. They will remember it for a lifetime.

But the absolute best part of the experience was how it allowed us to reconnect on a deeper level as a family. We talked, laughed, slept and ate. Without the distractions of everyday life, we found ourselves having conversations we hadn't had in years, and we truly appreciated each other’s presence. The combination of nature, wellness, and adventure gave us a sense of clarity and peace that we didn’t even know we were missing. It was like time stopped and nothing else mattered. It was truly truly special.

This trip didn’t just exceed our expectations—it reshaped our view of life, showing us the importance of slowing down, being present, and connecting with the world around us. The luxury camp was perfect and I just don't know how the Alive team pulled everything together. We returned home feeling rejuvenated, more in tune with nature, and excited to get back into life. We will carry this experience with us for the rest of our lives.

— Niklaus, Switzerland