Sun Destinations

Sundowners on safari are a quintessential part of the safari experience. A simple ritual, part of the everyday rhythm of life in the bush. Finding the perfect scenic spot to watch the sun slip behind the horizon with an icy drink in hand. Whether it’s a gin and tonic, a cold beer, or something with a fizz, watching the colours shift as golden light spills across the African bush is where happy hour meets golden hour. It’s one of the most memorable moments on any African safari.

 

 

Sundowners on safari mark a shift in the rhythm of the day. The heat begins to ease and the light gently drenches the landscape in gold before it starts to fade. It’s a time to pause and to reflect. A moment to share the close encounters of the day’s sightings or to simply sit in awe and enjoy the majesty of the wilderness surrounding you. Sundowners are a highlight on every afternoon game drive.

The safari way of life

Sundowners are said to originate from the daily dose of quinine needed to ward off malaria. As if an excuse was needed for a daily G&T?! What was born from necessity has now become an iconic and popular ritual that is part of the safari way of life.

Golden hour isn’t something you just watch, you feel it settle in your bones

Each of camps has unique and special locations for their sundowner spot. Some change while others have amazing set stops that promise to take your breath away. AFRICA ON Foot, nThambo Tree House, and Chacma Bush Camp all offer a Honeymoon Sundowners Special that’s can be organised upon request. While other camp offer it upon special request and at an additional cost. Is there a more romantic place than the African wilderness?

Each camp has its own way of doing sundowners. Some with secret spots that shift with the seasons, others with iconic setups that never fail in taking your breath away. At Africa on Foot, nThambo Tree Camp, and Chacma Bush Camp, guests can enjoy a Honeymoon Sundowners Special. An intimate and beautifully arranged experience that can be booked in advance and ensures an extra-special moment for you and your loved one. Other camps may offer similar setups on request, sometimes with an additional cost. The intention is to create something intimate, magical, and completely unforgettable.

Is there anywhere more romantic than the Africa at dusk?

 

April and May are golden season in the bush. Post green season comes gold. Landscapes are super lush and post a good rainy season -there is bounty as far as they eye can see. The skies are clearing and April sees the last of the rains. The light of autumn is something to behold. Spectacular sunrises and sunsets where the gentle golden light seems to linger for longer.
Autumn is a photographer’s dream. With out stretched soft light, it turns landscapes into dreamscapes.

Did we mention that it’s become a ritual simply because it’s fun? Yep, sundowners are a firm favourite for that very reason. There’s nothing better than sharing stories, laughter, and clinking glasses with the ones you love, somewhere out in the wild. It’s a way of connecting to nature, to each other, and to the ancient rhythm of honouring the sun. Knowing that for just one moment, there’s absolutely nowhere else you need to be.

As the last of the light slips away and the bush begins to hum with sounds of night coming to life, the feeling of sundowners lingers longer than even the golden light. A memory that stays with you forever.

For unforgettable moments that stay with you long after the ice has melted and the sun has set, connect with our reservations team here to curate your dream safari experience.