The last week of our honeymoon back in 2023 we had a magical time staying at Mabalingwe, a fabulous nature reserve in Limpopo South Africa. We spent the week on game drives, bird-watching and wandering through the beautiful landscapes of our countries bush, it was pure bliss. On one of the days we found ourselves a sweet Oasis in the middle of game driving.
The only word I can use to accurately describe this spot is 'quirky', a sweet restaurant surrounded by all sorts of interesting art and decor. Although the day we went, we happened to arrive during loadshedding (A common power outage in South Africa - ugh) This meant we weren't able to try the places food or milkshake and the dimly lit interiors meant capturing good photos wasn't possible however, luckily for us there was plenty outside to explore.
As we wandered around the oasis (very appropriately named) we found hidden treasures at every turn. An old, rusted, beat-up VW beetle and half of a bakkie (or pick-up truck I think others call it) There was seriously so much to look at, so many photo backdrops and fun spaces.
This place had all the character and the biggest personality, everywhere you turned there was something new and unique, I loved it... as an artist and as a photographer.
What made this place really special were all the countless scribbles of past visitors covering basically everything. It seemed like every little surface was scribbled on, from the window frames all the way to the old beat up car. These interesting scribbles all held a unique story of all the people that were there before us.
With it only being the two of us there, we enjoyed the entire place all to ourselves. We were both filled with many giggles as we attempted to decipher some of the scribbles and talked about who we thought all these people were and what their stories were.
After our incredible quality time spent at oasis we drove back to our chalet where we were blessed with a glorious South African sunset in the bush, there is something so special about South African sunsets. The perfect end to the perfectly relaxed day.
Looking back on our honeymoon, the Kalahari Oasis was one of the highlights for sure, the special quality time we got to spend as a newly married couple, it was so special. Though I do need to go back to grab a milkshake and pizza... it was a special day.
If you're ever in the area, don't miss the chance to visit this hidden gem... hidden in the midst of wildlife and bush veld was this area filled with rest, relaxation and fun!
Whether a honeymoon, a family trip or even a solo adventure, soak up the peace that is the oasis, take a break, snap some photos and make some of your own memories... you won't regret it!
All photographs are copyrighted to the author
~ AJ Champz
Photography instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/achampionphotography/