Roadtrip! Knysna to Plett

Woke up to the soft glow of sunrise slipping through the top of the A-frame windows at Oyster Creek Lodge and I was out of that bed like a rocket, camera in hand for sunrise pics.

The lagoon at sunrise is stunning. Still, golden and so peaceful. After taking my fill, I went for a wander in the lodge garden, chatting with the gardener who was lovingly tending to every little corner. It’s always beautiful to see people take such pride in what they do, it gives everything more soul.

By the time I wandered back in, the smell of bacon had floated through the room and worked its magic. Suddenly, Nick was vertical. And we were off.

Elephant Sanctuary – Plettenberg Bay

We had limited time in Plett so first stop: the Elephant Sanctuary just outside town. And let me tell you, I was not ready for the emotional rollercoaster this place would bring.

The elephants? Breathtaking. The forest walk? Peaceful.
But our guide, Patrick? He spoke with such deep love and respect for the elephants, sharing stories and care routines with so much heart, I actually started crying. Like actual happy, overwhelmed tears.

Nick looked at me like, “What is happening? Did someone die? Is she broken?” Through my sobbing I tried to explain, “No, no… these are happy tears!”. His face? Absolute confusion. Followed by the universal “girls be crazy” expression. 😂

And honestly, I get it. But also – shoutout to the owner of the sanctuary, who Patrick says doesn’t even allow people to raise their voices at the elephants. Every elephant gets a personal check-in when he arrives. That’s love. That’s leadership. I leave feeling so inspired, renewed faith in humanity.

Bloukrans Bridge Bungy

Next up: a totally different kind of emotional experience – the Bloukrans Bridge Bungy Jump.

Not for me, obviously. I was still busy recovering from my last adrenaline stunt – a 65m swing off Gouritz Bridge.

But Nick? Brave (or bonkers). He strapped up and walked out onto this absolutely terrifying gangplank suspended 216 metres above the river. I followed, peeking through the wire walkway while gripping the rails like a grandma at a skating rink. Every step, I imagined rusted bolts and my early demise. I did not look down again.

Watching Nick jump off the edge into open air… my stomach dropped. But I had to give a good laugh at his face just before jumping. I’m so glad it wasn’t me.

Monkeyland Magic

We had time for one more sanctuary, and sadly had to choose between Monkeyland and Birds of Eden. I LOVE BIRDS, but Monkeyland was right there, so we chose the closest option.

Monkeyland is worth a visit though! You walk into this shaded forest filled with wild, free-roaming monkeys, and suddenly everything slows down. There’s something grounding about the sounds, especially the Gibbons, with their iconic “WOOOOOOOP” echoing through the trees (Google it, trust me).

They swung from branch to branch like little daredevils. It felt like walking through a jungle playground, full of mischief and magic.

Wrapping Up

It’s our last night on the road and honestly, my heart is so full.
What a special trip with my precious little brother – full of laughter, tears (some from joy, some from terror), and memories I’ll keep forever.

Tomorrow, we head home. But not before one more breakfast. One more photo. One more moment of gratitude for the wild, wonderful ride. And… an impromtu Zipline.