Day 101 – Durban, South Africa

Viking Sky arrived in Durban, South Africa, early this morning, much too early in fact for me to watch the sail-in. By the time I got up, we were docked at the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal.

Views from Viking Sky Towards the Terminal and the City of Durban

Today was our day for a safari, and Tim and I left at noon for the “Tala Private Game Reserve” optional excursion. This was the description:

Experience the natural beauty of Africa in the stunning Tala Private Game Reserve. Nestled in the hills of the KwaZulu-Natal province—an area of indigenous acacia thornveld, open grassland and sensitive wetland—the Tala Private Game Reserve provides an exceptional collection of plants and wildlife. Board your open-game vehicle with highly knowledgeable guides who will lead you through the reserve. Get close to nature, interact with the environment and absorb the sights, sounds and smells of the African bush. The reserve covers more than 7,000 acres, and features many diverse ecosystems that are home to 300 different bird species and big game such as rhino, kudu, hippo, giraffe and sable antelope. Marvel at the fiery red flowers of an aloe plant in full bloom, or the smell of the fragrant wild sage. Upon your return to base, enjoy refreshments and free time before returning to your ship.

As we drove through Durban, I got a glimpse of some of the city’s historic buildings, including a clubhouse, a courthouse, two Art Deco commercial buildings, and a church.  On the outskirts of the downtown, our guide pointed out the Jesus Dome.

A Few of Durban's Historic Buildings - Durban Club, Jesus Dome, Victoria Mansions, 
Durban High Court, First Church of Christ Scientist, and Quadrant House

The drive was quite scenic, and we even spotted giraffes before arriving at Tala Private Game Reserve. As it turned out, we would see these same giraffes up close later today. Two large 4x4 vehicles were waiting for us when we arrived, and I quickly climbed into the smaller one, saving a spot for Tim. That turned out to be an excellent decision because all six of us ended up with a “window” seat.

Even before we set out on the game drive, I was so surprised to see zebras moseying towards us. I had hoped to see zebras today, and my wish was granted.

I Love Zebras

We did not have to search for the animals. They seemed to be everywhere we looked, which was amazing. Among these smaller animals were several rhinoceroses, and we watched them cross the road. It was sad to hear that it was necessary to remove their horns to protect them from poaching.

Rhinos

I had not seen rhinos at Amboseli National Park, so I have now seen four of the Big Five – lions, elephants, African buffalo, and now rhinos. Only leopards remain for me.

As we drove through the reserve, we continued to see so many animals, several of which were new to me. We saw ostriches, blesbok, impala, kudus, and more zebras.

Ostriches

Blesbok

Impala

Kudus

More Zebras

Although seeing these animals was amazing, I was in awe when we came upon a tower of giraffes. Yes, a group of giraffes is a tower. There must have been a dozen or more feasting on the trees, and we sat and watched them for a long time. What magnificent animals they are, and I was thrilled to see them up close.

I Also Love Giraffes

Amazing Giraffes

More Giraffes

As we made our way back to the entrance, we passed a herd of nyalas and a confusion of wildebeest.

Nyalas

Wildebeest

I think we really hit the jackpot today, and it was a very rewarding experience. In addition to seeing so many animals, I also enjoyed the beautiful setting of the reserve itself.

The Reserve Is In a Beautiful Part of South Africa

Tim, Our Guide, and Sarah

On the way back to the ship, we took a different route through Durban, and I was able to see more of the city’s historic sites, including government buildings, religious buildings, and a former railway workshop.

A Few More of Durban's Historic Buildings - Durban Central Post Office, Juma Mosque,
Durban City Hall, St. Peter's Catholic Church, and Old Durban Railway Workshop

Tonight, Chef Alastair and his culinary team had another special event prepared for us at the Pool Grille. Here, we were served a multi-course dinner with bread sticks and dips, a deconstructed Caesar salad, fish and chips, and an ice cream dessert. The fish and chips were perfectly tender, yet crispy, and the dessert was so good.

Fish and Chips at the Pool Grill

Although Tim and I didn’t make it to the theater for the evening performance, we enjoyed watching “Magic of Music: An Evening with Our Classical Musicians” on our TV. Although we enjoy listening to these musicians individually, it was so nice to see and hear them collaborate with one another.

Magic of Music: An Evening with Our Classical Musicians