Happy Observer, Happy Hunter

Why a hunting trip can be the perfect family holiday – even if you don’t hunt

When Fran, Craig, and their daughter Skye arrived at Phumba Safaris, Craig was the only one who came for the hunt. But what unfolded over the next few days was a trip filled with sunsets, wildlife, laughter, and unexpected adventures — not just for the hunter, but for the whole family.

Smile - Selfie in the hide

While Craig was out tracking game, Fran and Skye were soaking up the African sun by the waterhole, birdwatching and photographing the vibrant wildlife. Fran posted, “Hello from South Africa. Spent the morning relaxing at the waterhole. Plenty of birdlife – in particular this beautiful little bird called the Blue Waxbill.” Later that day, they caught a glimpse of kudu, warhogs and a few others in the wild.

Kudu at waterhole

Warthog at waterhole

Observer relaxing at waterhole

Time spent at the waterhole

But their experience didn’t stop at wildlife viewing. There were lazy afternoons at charming local cafés, trying South African specialties like Red Cappuccinos with honey, and browsing biltong shops for local flavours. At one of the stops, they even visited Trophex Taxidermy, where they were amused to find a monkey getting its teeth brushed!

Red cappuccino at a local south african cafe

Monkey getting his teeth brushed at taxidermy

Biltong at biltong shop

Visiting different cafes, a biltong shop and the taxidermy

For Fran and Skye, the week was packed with thoughtful, engaging activities:

• A local pottery workshop with wine, snacks, and laughter – and bowls they took home as souvenirs

• A bush spa day with massages and Marula-infused pampering

• Tasting local game meats and dancing along with a spirited Gumboots performance

• Exploring the local farm life, a short drive on the quad bike,  sampling South African lollies, and enjoying sundowners by the waterhole

• A trip to the local pub to watch the Springboks smash the Italians in Rugby

So much to do, so little time

Even Skye, who had never shown an interest in hunting, got into the spirit. She harvested a guinea fowl — cooked that evening by our very own Chef Brian as a much-loved entrée — and later bagged a black-backed jackal. As Craig joked, “24 years it’s taken for her to ‘get into’ hunting and all it’s taken is a trip to South Africa!”

You might get into hunting

To top it all off, their final days in Africa included a truly magical elephant encounter — walking alongside these gentle giants and experiencing their presence up close. That evening, they stayed at a nearby game reserve, where they had the chance to spot the Big Five and raise a glass to a journey none of them would ever forget. As Fran so beautifully put it upon departure:

“Arrived as strangers and left as friends. Thank you for an unforgettable holiday.”

Experiencing the big five

“Family is important to me, and having them included in what I love doing makes what I love doing even more special… The undivided attention Fran and Skye received, the company, the laughs, the 5-star food – it’s all left an indelible mark on me.” Craig Golding

While Fran and Skye enjoyed a week packed with unique cultural and relaxing experiences, that’s only scratching the surface of what’s on offer.

Other experiences non-hunters can enjoy at Phumba Safaris include:

• Horseback safaris for a truly immersive way to view wildlife

• Boating and fishing trips on the scenic Makolo Dam, perfect for a tranquil day out

• Guided nature walks to learn about the local flora and fauna up close

• Local craft markets and township tours for a taste of authentic daily life

• Stargazing evenings under some of the clearest skies in the world

• Or simply relaxing at the lodge with a book, a drink, and the sounds of the bush

So, if you’re wondering whether a hunting safari is just for hunters, think again. At Phumba Safaris, we believe in shared adventures, warm hospitality, and giving everyone, hunter or not,  a story to tell. Because when the observer is happy, the hunter is even happier.