Sun Destinations

Love is in the air, and we’re fully embracing the spirit of Valentine’s Day for the whole of February. Our team recently connected with some couples who not only had a romantic safari experience but also took the plunge into engagement. Keegan and Dominique, a delightful couple deeply in love, enthusiastically shared their unique story with us. Beginning with their engagement at Africa on Foot and continuing through their “after engagement honeymoon” at nThambo Tree Camp, this couple truly seized the moment. Their tale is captivating, and we couldn’t wait to explore how Keegan orchestrated his perfect proposal!

 

Right, let’s go. It’s time to GET PERSONAL.

Where did you two meet?

We met in Florida—we both work in yachting. Our respective boats were in the same port, and we were introduced by a mutual friend at the marina bar.

Did your fiancé, Dominique, have any idea about the proposal?

She had a feeling I was going to propose on this trip, but had no idea how. She thought we were going to a self catering chalet in the Kruger. It ended up going according to plan.

What made you choose Africa on Foot?

We both love the bush and especially the Timbavati and surrounding region. I wanted something unique and that’s exactly what Africa on foot offers with their walking safaris. The balance between a true rustic bush experience and luxury is just perfect!

Please describe the proposal set-up

I organised a private game drive in the evening. Africa on Foot set a beautiful table with snacks and champagne by a stunning dam overlooking the sunset. They made it so special. It was everything and more than what I imagined it to be. I knelt down with the sunset reflected on the dam with the sounds of wildlife all around us.

What was your favourite thing about nThambo Tree Camp and Africa on Foot?

At both places the people made it special for us. The staff were phenomenal. The food was also delicious and the morning walks at Africa on Foot were such a treat. nThambo had stunning facilities and the tree house we stayed in had a lovely view of the plain and waterhole in front of them.

The bush is an unpredictable place! Did anything interesting happen during the proposal? 

Before I got down on one knee, lions started roaring about 500 metres away from us. This put a slight holt to proceedings as we stood and listened to the beautiful sound.

Do you have any other interesting stories or information to share?

We spent a night in the Africa on foot treehouse. The whole night was spent listening to hyenas and lions all around us. For some reason, Dominique convinced herself that we were going to be their dinner that night! We were also treated to a wonderful private dinner at both camps ,these were both surprises which made it even more special.

A huge congratulations to Dominique Mcfie and Keegan Ehret on their engagement. Sounds like their Klaserie safari was magical. 

We have a few other stand-out Kruger Camps that will boast picture-perfect proposal destinations.

Nambu Camp

Looking to propose in style? You should consider Nambu Camp in the Olifants West Nature Reserve. This simple yet luxurious camp enjoys elevated views of the wilderness, and is known for their well-appointed rooms and main area. There are some beautiful enclaves and spots to propose—it really just depends on what you want. Consider your fiancé’s deepest desires and roll with that!

Here are a few ideas:

• For the water lover: around the poolside or the banks of the river (chat to the team at Nambu to see if a riverside proposal is viable) is best.
• For the foodie: opt for somewhere private to pop the question. Nambu’s homecooked fare is impressive, but not as impressive as your upcoming proposal. No pressure!
• For the wildlife guru: this is the most “bushveld romantic” type of proposal. Game drives typically last for 3 hours, so wait until the sundowner stop to ask for your lover’s hand in marriage. When the landscape is bathed in that orange-golden light, it’s almost a guaranteed yes. If your partner is a crime-channel fanatic or loves a good horror movie, try proposing during a lion kill.
• For the discerning type: for the classic, more quiet character we suggest you chat to our reservations team to stage a more intimate and secret proposal.

Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails

You’re THAT couple who scales mountains, enjoys a dawn patrol surf, and lives life with a sense of adventure. It goes without saying that a 3-day wilderness trail is guaranteed to get a YES when you pose your life-altering question.

As an outdoorsy couple, there are many places for you to propose. Tap into your daredevil side and opt for spontaneous down-on-one-knee proposal in the middle of your walk. Keep it casual by proposing around the campfire when you’re at the riverside camping spot. Instead of the violins and gentle background music, you’ll be treated to a choir of honking hippos and an interlude of hyena grunts.

Looking for something with a view? Chat to your guides, because some of the lunch spots have breathtaking elevated views of the wilderness. Then again, the crackling campfire on the banks of the river under the glitzy night sky is an option. When you return for a sundowner drink, you can always pop the question while the crocs bask in the sun behind you. Again, check with your guide when you’ll be overnighting on the banks of the river. It’s a great little spot.

Trust us when we say, this will be one WILD proposal. Because you’re the adventurous type, you could just wait until the right moment and go with your heart. Unplanned events are often far more exciting and enticing.

For something a little bit relaxed, chat to your guide about the most scenic lunch time stop. There are points along your trail that offer exceptional aerial vistas of waterholes. So if it’s views you want, your guide can point you in the right direction.

Chacma Bush Camp

We don’t call it charming Chacma for nothing! If you’re looking for something selective and low-key, the solution is Chacma Bush Camp. With just 3 chalets, you’re practically guaranteed a quiet time. For you, we’re loving the romantic Steenbok Chalet option which opens out onto a small private patio overlooking part of the waterhole.

Propose in solitude on the patio in front of an elephant lumbering down to the waterhole. If it’s views you’re after, take a stroll up to the rocky outcrop behind camp and enjoy the bird’s-eye views of the Greater Kruger…and a resounding YES from your fiancé. Of course, there’s the iconic boma evenings, game drives, dinners and poolside areas that also make for idyllic proposal areas.