Day 8 – The Final Big Five, Sunset Celebrations & A Safari Farewell

Our Last Full Day at Sebatana

I can’t believe it’s our last full day at Sebatana. This week has absolutely flown by—and while it’s been full-on from start to finish, I’ve honestly loved every single moment. If I could stay a few more days, I absolutely would!

Ka’ingo Game Reserve & Sunset Rock

📍 Ka’ingo Game Reserve, Waterberg Region
Today’s highlight was a return to Ka’ingo Game Reserve, one of the few true Big Five reserves in the area. The goal? Track down the final animal on our Big Five list: the Cape Buffalo. We'd already seen lion, leopard, elephant, and rhino—and this was our last chance to complete the set.

Later, we would visit the iconic Sunset Rock, a special spot high above the plains, perfect for toasting the final night of this incredible journey.

The Last Big Five & Golden Hour Moments

🌄 Early Morning Safari & The Buffalo Chase
We started the day with breakfast at 5:30 AM, ready for one last optional game drive at Ka’ingo. It was chilly, but the amazing team at Sebatana once again had blankets ready for us—such a thoughtful touch that made early mornings feel cosy.

On this drive, we had our wish list: a close-up of a leopard or lion… and the elusive buffalo.

While we saw plenty of incredible animals—white rhino, elephants, giraffe, wildebeest, and more—the cats weren’t playing along today. Just as it seemed like we might have to leave without completing the Big Five, our driver got a call…

📣 Buffalo spotted!
He didn’t hesitate—turned the jeep around and hit the accelerator. After a 20-minute chase, we reached the sighting... and there they were. Buffalo. Up close. Magnificent.

Buffalo

It’s funny—buffalo weren’t high on my personal list before, but seeing them in person changed that. They are so powerful and striking—stoic and beautiful in a way I didn’t expect. We felt incredibly lucky to end our safari journey with such a special moment. We even stayed an extra 45–60 minutes just to soak it all in.

🌞 Poolside & Packing
Back at the lodge, we headed to our room to freshen up and start the dreaded task of packing. After lunch, we made the most of the afternoon by lounging by the pool, enjoying the last of the warm African sun.

🥂 Sunset Rock Finale
As the golden hour approached, we all boarded the jeeps for one last drive—to Sunset Rock. There, with champagne in hand and nibbles to share, we watched the sky shift from gold to orange to pink. We took photos, laughed, reflected on the week, and toasted to an unforgettable adventure surrounded by the incredible people we met along the way.

🎉 Girls vs. Boys Game (We Won!)
There was still one more surprise: a cheeky girls vs. boys challenge. I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say the girls came out on top thanks to one of the younger stars in our jeep. It was the perfect way to wrap up a magical day.

Evening Celebrations & A Special Lodge Surprise

Back at the lodge, the dining tables were beautifully set for our final dinner. But first, the manager shared the next day’s schedule and a little surprise…

Earlier in the week, we were given a spotting guide to tick off animals and plants as we saw them. We assumed it was a group activity—but turns out, it was per couple! Thankfully, one of the amazing women in our jeep had kept our sheet meticulously filled in, and… we won again!

Evening meal table set up on last night.

Tips for Day 8:

✅ Take the optional Ka’ingo drive – You never know what magic the last day holds.
✅ Layer up for the morning – It can be chilly, especially on the jeep.
✅ Make the most of Sunset Rock – Bring your camera and soak it in.
✅ Say yes to every photo – This is your last full day. Capture it all.
✅ Appreciate the buffalo – They may surprise you.

From start to finish, today was the perfect ending to an unforgettable safari. Tomorrow, we say goodbye… but I know I’ll carry these memories for a lifetime.

Until next time—keep dreaming big, traveling far, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
See you soon,
Sarah x