Welcome to Kapama Private Game Reserve

Although it presents itself as ‘Episode 11’, this was actually the very first episode that we filmed for this season. We had driven from Joburg to Hoedspruit the day before, and then at sunrise the following morning headed out 2 hours into the bush to set up our bush kitchen. The first day of any new season is always one of the most challenging as we’re finding our feet again and getting back into the swing of things. That, couple with 40C temperatures and dusty, dry bush and a very remote location means that we couldn’t have been gladder for the warm welcome and amazing hospitality of the Kapama team. Their rangers guided us expertly through the bush to our cooking spot, and helped with endless small details – even taking Sophie and Isla on a little bush walk to see the ‘little 5’, still one of the highlights of our month on the road. The place has a very special magic all of its own, so it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most well loved game reserves in the area. I also had the pleasure of cooking with Chef Erasmus, learning more about local dishes and some of the lodge’s culinary highlights, and Rob, Sophie, Isla and I ended off with a fireside feast under a beautiful African night sky.

I couldn’t think of a better way to have started our next Food Safari adventure, and a very sincere and most heartfelt thank you must go to the wonderful Kapama family.

More on Kapama
Kapama Private Game Reserve, occupies a vast 13 000 hectares of sweeping wilderness between South Africa’s northern Drakensberg mountains and the Greater Kruger National Park near Hoedspruit, in South Africa’s northernmost province of Limpopo. Renowned for its prolific and diverse wildlife, Kapama Private Game Reserve is home to over 40 different mammal species, including the most dangerous Big Five of elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros. Approximately 350 bird species and a myriad smaller species can also be seen here in their natural environment. Twice-daily game drives through the reserve, accompanied by expert guides and trackers, ensure unforgettable wildlife encounters in the African bush. Along with the Kapama River, the languid Klaserie River also flows through the reserve. These serve as natural water sources for the resident wildlife.