Renowned travel blogger David Batzofin is no stranger to the collection of camps and lodges within the Sun Destinations portfolio, and is a regular guest-turned-blogger within our Kruger circuit (catch him here: Travel and Things). He has gained recognition for his work in documenting various travel experiences, sharing reviews, and providing insights into the safari lifestyle. Due to his wealth of knowledge, we decided to tap into his wisdom and feature him in today’s #GuestSafariReview blog post, showcasing Chacma Bush Camp.
Please tell us about your favourite wildlife sighting while out on game drive.
These are many and varied. From a breeding herd of elephants to finding a chameleon walking across the road. I always go to a camp with no expectations. That way I am never disappointed.
What’s the best “small creature” to spot on safari?
A recent sighting that I had of an African Wild cat. These animals are normally very skittish, but this individual stopped and ‘posed’ for the longest time.
What can our guests expect from the safari experience, over and above the usual safari activities?
The joy of being immersed in nature, from walking up the koppie behind camp to relaxing by the pool and watching as the herds of elephants pay a visit to the waterhole.
Why did you choose Chacma?
This is my 3rd visit to Chacma Bush Camp. It is an intimate camp which allows for good interactions with both guests and staff alike. Also, the waterhole is an attraction for me as the game will come to drink and wallow without me having to leave the camp
How has being immersed in nature during your safari experiences, impacted your perspective on conservation?
I have been involved with wildlife since my first visit to a national park when I was 13. The time spent in the bush over the intervening years has only reinforced my opinion that we, as a species, should pay more attention to what we are doing to our natural resources. Conservation is not only the responsibility of lodge owners, managers and guides and trackers. It is the responsibility of every individual that visits a park or a reserve to become an ambassador for conservation.
During your downtime at Chacma, what did you do?
I sat on the deck near the waterhole and waited and watched while waiting for meals to be served. Seeing it was a working trip for me, I spend most of my ‘downtime’ taking pictures and making notes for articles.
Give us a cool story from your time at Chacma.
We had gone on an afternoon drive and the guide informed us that there had been a leopard sighted not too far from Chacma. We spent most of the drive searching for the elusive predator, only to find it at the camp drinking at the waterhole at the camp when we returned!
And lastly, we understand you’re a journalist – care to share a bit about your background?
I have been a travel writer and wildlife photographer for the past 20 years. My travel Blog has won several awards and some of my mages are hanging in homes in both the UK and the USA. I am grateful to have chosen this as a career late in life as it has allowed me to visit some wonderful places, both locally and internationally and meet some interesting people who share my love of travel and nature.
Thank you David—And for your all of your contributions to Sun Destinations’ content.
About Chacma Bush Camp
Charming Chacma Bush Camp is an intimate hideaway located in the Big 5 Maseke Balule Game Reserve, offers the perfect big five safari experience in 8000 hectares of undulating landscapes dotted with rocky outcrops. Located in the uncrowded Maseke Game Reserve (a management area of the Balule Private Nature Reserve). The camp sleeps a total of 10 people in three chalets, and thus offers an authentic and personalised safari experience. One of the highlights of Chacma Bush Camp is the waterhole located right in front of the camp, with only an elephant fence separating you from the wildlife. It’s not unusual for our guests to enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool while watching elephants playfully splash around in the waterhole just a few steps away.
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