In the midst of our travels through Kruger Park we came across three young lions (2 female, 1 male) lying in the middle of the road. We didn't expect to see them laying in the road and had to hit hard on the breaks. They then ran to the bushes only to wonder who we were. They then proceeded to come near our van, they were so close I could have touched them! This without a doubt is considered to be one of the best days of my life. They are such beautiful and strong animals. I relive my experience daily.

A three-day safari in Kruger National Park is a must for anyone visiting South Africa. Entering the gates is like Jurassic Park and you feel transported back in time to the creation of Earth where the wild animals, especially the elephants, are dinosaurs filled with ancient knowledge of the land's beginning. Although you may not see anything like the infamous "Battle at Kruger" YouTube video, you will certainly witness some interesting animal behavior like hippos bathing, monkeys mating, giraffes snacking or even two elephants flirting in the brush.

On this particular day, we had spent at least six hours driving inside Kruger National Park. We steered away from the main part of the park up into some hills which is when we saw these majestic animals. It was a beautiful experience sharing the road less traveled.

There is no experience that compares to seeing a baby elephant who is too young to even walk be helped up by his elder. We were blessed enough to be turning down this road to see this baby elephant stumbling in all its beautiful glory and being pulled up by its ears. I could never describe anything like it. Might I also add that Mom was out of the shot, but one thing I have learned from South Africa and Kruger National Park is that you never get too close to elephants especially there babies. We then patiently watched and waited for this baby elephant to stumble across the road.

Over several days on an amazing safari, my favorite was watching the Animal Kingdom mingle. You would often see just elephants, or just giraffes but watching hyenas scamper between elephants was amusing!

While on Safari in Kruger National Park, this massive male lion was passing by and I was fortunate enough to get a photo. It was a short duration that we seen him. He was a little bit older but still a beautiful animal. I only wish I could have seen him with a pride and my life would have been complete.

We stayed at the Ezulwini Game Lodge which created a magical experience in South Africa. This was our first drive out. Off roading we went to a family of male lions. We wondered what would top this. Well each drive did.

Despite all the animals you are guaranteed to see on a Kruger Park safari, the skies and landscape can be the most enthralling. The clouds all line up overhead on a parallel plane as if friendly flying saucers. The endless horizon makes you feel small yet connected to the land and the beginning of time. The vibrant colors are pure, true to their natural form and unaffected by filters of the modern world. It fills you with nostalgia and awe. While you are surveying the land for animals just make sure to take a step back, look at the bigger picture and sit with that feeling for a moment (or more).

A superb short vacation where we stayed at the Guernsey Game Reserve, Thornhill Safari Lodge (www.thornhillsafarilodge.com). Thornhill is situated in a premier eco-tourist area with several different animal rehabilitation center. The staff and trackers were very knowledgeable and friendly. I unfortunately only stayed 2 nights/3 days. I highly recommend at least one more day; if not more. I hope to travel to another part of Africa; just not as long in the making.

One of the stops heading back from Kruger National Park towards Pretoria. Superb view and a sheer drop off if anyone is interested in cliff jumping (with a parachute). The view was really breath taking. I will always remember it.

We seen a cheetah off in the distance about 300 yards away coming towards us in the dried up creek bed. Next thing I know this family of 4 is sitting about 5-10 feet from our vehicle. They were so close that I could here one of the cubs purring. A great experience and viewing of a beautiful and healthy family of four.

Family is the most important thing. Here is mama lion protecting her young. To the left awaits other male lions we suspect are not part of this tribe. Male lions like to show dominance by killing a cub and taking over as the new main male lion. This mama is on fierce watch and so is her cub.

I have been on safaris before and nothing compares to the beyond amazing experience of Ngala Game Lodge. This place is truly magical! We saw everything ! Lions with their cubs, cheetahs, leopards eating their impala kill I a tree , elephant herds trumpeting and a new born they we protecting, giraffes, rhinos, ostriches, wildebeests, zibras, warthogs with their babies by the pool, hippos running and swimming, baboons and all the impala at Ngala. This place is now in my heart forever.