Day 1: 16 April – Dublin to London, Overnight to Johannesburg

The journey began in Dublin with a British Airways flight to London Heathrow, then an evening departure from Heathrow to Johannesburg in World Traveller Plus. When travelling from Ireland, this routing is very straightforward and keeps everything on one ticket. World Traveller Plus made a real difference on the long-haul:

A dedicated premium economy cabin with more space and a quieter atmosphere.

Extra legroom, wider seats and a more generous recline.

Upgraded dining and drinks compared to standard economy.

An overnight schedule that allows time for dinner, a film and a proper sleep. By the time we landed in Johannesburg the next morning, we genuinely felt like we had had a “soft landing” into South Africa rather than stumbling off a long-haul flight exhausted.

Day 2: 17 April – Soweto Tuk Tuk Tour & Overnight at The Catalyst

Landing into Johannesburg on the morning of 17 April, we were met by Sense of Africa who looked after us throughout with seamless transfers, friendly guides and excellent local insight. Being rested from the World Traveller Plus overnight flight meant we could dive straight into the day’s activities.

Our first stop was Soweto, where we joined a tuk tuk tour with Lebo’s Backpackers. This was one of the most memorable and meaningful parts of the trip. Rather than simply ticking off “sights”, we met people, heard stories and saw everyday life unfold around us.

Highlights included: Exploring Soweto’s streets by tuk tuk, with time to stop, walk and interact.  Learning about the area’s complex history and powerful role in the struggle for democracy.

Enjoying a relaxed lunch with local flavours, music and a warm community feel.

After our time in Soweto we checked in to The Catalyst Hotel for our first night in Johannesburg. Stylish, comfortable and well located, it was an ideal base after a long journey and a busy first day. A good night’s sleep here set us up perfectly for the drive to the bush the following morning.

Day 3: 18 April – Journey to the Bush & First Sightings at Laluka Safari Lodge

On 18 April we left Johannesburg by road, heading north to the Welgevonden Game Reserve, a private, malaria-free reserve in the Waterberg. The drive itself is a lovely way to see the landscape change from city outskirts to rolling bushveld and mountain views.

Our home for the next two nights was Laluka Safari Lodge: intimate, stylish and very thoughtfully run.

On arrival we enjoyed:

A welcome drink and orientation to the lodge and reserve.

A delicious lunch with views across the bush. 

Some time to settle into our suites before our first game drive:

That afternoon, we headed out on safari and very quickly felt immersed in the bush. Our first drives brought classic African scenes to life: herds of zebra and wildebeest grazing together, comical warthogs dashing through the grass with tails held high, baboons watching us from rocky outcrops and waterholes busy with birdlife and the occasional glimpse of hippo.

The guiding really stood out: knowledgeable, patient and passionate about conservation and the ecosystem as a whole rather than just “ticking off” animals. We ended the day with dinner back at the lodge, sharing stories from the drive and getting that wonderful sense that comes when you are truly “in the bush” with night sounds all around you.

Day 4: 19 April – Immersed in Safari Life

Our full day at Laluka on 19 April showcased just how rewarding a private reserve experience can be.

Morning game drive - We set off at first light, blankets and hot drinks in hand. This is often when the bush feels at its most alive and it certainly delivered:

Beautiful sunrise scenes and morning birdsong, Fresh tracks in the sand and fantastic interpretation from our guide. More time with plains game like zebra and wildebeest, plus excellent birding and plenty of warthog antics. One of the real highlights was a powerful, up-close lion sighting, handled with great care and respect by our guide so we could appreciate the moment without disturbing the animals.

Afternoon game drive: After brunch and some downtime at the lodge, we headed back out later in the day for a second drive. The change in light brought a different cast of characters and photo opportunities.

Sundowners in a scenic spot were a lovely touch, with time simply to stand, listen and feel immersed in the landscape. Dinner that evening at the lodge felt extra special. After two game drives and so many shared experiences, the conversation flowed and we really appreciated the warm service and quality of the food. For clients, it is this combination of wildlife, comfort and genuine hospitality that makes a safari feel truly luxurious.

Day 5: 20 April – Final Game Drive, Farm Tour & Return to the City

We started the day with one last morning game drive, making the most of our remaining time in Welgevonden. There is always the chance of one more surprise sighting, and the reserve obliged with a final mix of plains game, rhino tracks and those last lingering views of the bush that make it so hard to leave.

Later in the morning we enjoyed a tour of the farm that supports the lodge. This was a fascinating insight into how fresh produce is grown and how sustainability is woven into daily operations. It is the sort of behind the scenes experience that adds real depth for guests who care about where their food comes from and the impact of their stay.

After lunch we travelled back to Johannesburg and checked in at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel. This elegant, tranquil property provided a perfect contrast to our time in the bush: lush gardens, generous suites and a very refined, residential feel.

That evening we were treated to a food and wine pairing dinner at the hotel. Courses were beautifully presented and paired with South African wines, showcasing the country’s gastronomic side. It was sophisticated yet relaxed, ideal for couples or friends ending their trip on a high note.

Day 6: 21 April – Constitutional Hill, Victoria Yards & Homeward Bound

Our final day was dedicated to exploring more of Johannesburg’s culture and creative energy.

Constitutional Hill: We began at Constitutional Hill, a former prison complex turned museum and the current home of South Africa’s Constitutional Court. The visit was powerful and thought provoking: Moving stories of political prisoners and the journey to democracy. Insight into the country’s modern constitution and ongoing social challenges. Sensitive, well curated exhibits that really stay with you

Victoria Yards: From there we continued to Victoria Yards, a rejuvenated industrial space now home to artists’ studios, designers and small creative businesses. It is a great spot for clients who enjoy: Local art and design,   Unique pieces and handicrafts. A more contemporary, “insider” view of Johannesburg.

Later that day we transferred to the airport for our flight home: another overnight British Airways service from Johannesburg to Heathrow in World Traveller Plus, followed by our onward connection back to Dublin. After a final dinner and a glass of wine, it was feet up, films on and then a good sleep before touching down in London and continuing on to Ireland. It was a very comfortable way to round off what had been a packed and inspiring itinerary.

Reflections:

This trip  reminded me just how much South Africa can offer in a relatively short timeframe when it is planned thoughtfully. It gives a balance of experiences: Community tourism in Soweto, rich political history at Constitutional Hill, contemporary creativity at Victoria Yards and then a deep nature immersion on safari with memorable sightings of zebra, wildebeest, rhino, warthog, baboon, hippo and even a single, perfectly framed giraffe. Comfort and style throughout: British Airways flights from Dublin via Heathrow, World Traveller Plus on the long-haul sectors, a smart city stay at The Catalyst, a characterful safari lodge and a boutique Johannesburg hideaway. Seamless flow from Ireland: One airline, coordinated connections and overnight long-haul in a more spacious cabin, plus private transfers and a pace that feels full but not frantic. Meaningful travel: Plenty of opportunities to engage with local communities, understand the country’s story and support responsible tourism partners. For anyone considering South Africa, combining Johannesburg and a private reserve such as Welgevonden offers a superb introduction: it is accessible, visually beautiful and emotionally very rich. When tailored carefully, it can be as adventurous, romantic, family friendly or indulgent as you wish.