The mental and physical benefits of walking stack up incredibly fast. Now, pair that with a trek across a landscape boasting five distinct biomes and we promise you, this trip will be on your 2026 bucket list in no time! Beyond the obvious perks, connecting deeply with nature, soaking up Vitamin D under the African sun and going off-grid when the only signal is a guide telling you to crouch lower while spotting a Big Five animal, walking safaris offer something truly special. And nowhere does it quite like the spectacular Samara Karoo Reserve.
Tucked into South Africa’s Great Karoo, Samara is a semi-arid paradise of vast landscapes, dramatic escarpments, mountains and grasslands. With over 67 000 acres to explore, it’s home to the charismatic Big Five and a host of arid-adapted species you won’t see anywhere else.
“For a few days, life was stripped to its bare bones: just the earth, animals and me.”
The Samara Karoo Reserve Welcome
On our first day, we met at the lodge just outside the quaint town of Graaff-Reinet. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by name, a small but meaningful detail that instantly makes you feel at home. That night, I’ll admit, I felt a flicker of fear. There’s something humbling about knowing there’s just a mosquito net between you and a lion. But with our guides on patrol all evening, I eventually drifted off, soothed by the stillness. And then there’s the Karoo sky – our guide gave us a crash course in constellations as we huddled by the fire with a glass of Pinotage, under a dome of endless stars.
Grounded and Untamed
The next morning, boots laced and water bottles filled, we set off on our first trek. We spent hours tracking a lion and a black rhino on foot – and even as someone who’s done their fair share of safaris, this felt completely different. There’s an adrenaline rush that comes with being on the ground, heart racing, knowing you’re in their territory now. One of the most magical moments was when a herd of giraffes wandered over, curious and unbothered, until they were standing just metres away.
Back at Plains Camp, we dug into the most delicious local dishes before heading out again for sundowners. On our walk up the ridge, we spotted two male cheetahs… exactly what we’d all been hoping for. Seeing them on foot was surreal, a real pinch-me moment.
The following day started with rain, but it didn’t stop us from trying to track the lion again. Most of the animals were tucked away, so after a 15km walk, we headed back for a hot shower and a lazy brunch. Later, as the skies cleared, we drove up into the mountains – and the sunset that followed was pure magic. No photo could do it justice. It was one of those scenes you have to be present for, Amarula in hand, just soaking it all in.
Our final morning was slow and unhurried. As we headed back to the lodge, we spotted a pack of lions with cubs – the ultimate parting gift. Over brunch at Karoo Lodge, we shared our favourite moments, each one etched firmly into memory.
READ MORE: 23 Bucket List Hikes To Do In South Africa, From Day Hikes To Wild Camping
Beyond The Beaten Path
I expected a walking safari to be about the animals, the landscapes, the challenge. And it was. But it was also about slowing down. About noticing things again, the texture of the earth beneath your boots, the sound of a jackal calling in the distance, the smell of rain rolling in. It reminded me to put my phone away, to eat, live and laugh while listening to the rest of the group’s curious stories, to stop worrying about charging my phone every second and focus on charging my mental battery instead. To relax and nap in the middle of the day (like a premium adult) and to feel completely grounded in nature. Funny how a little wilderness, good company and time to breathe can remind you of who you are beneath all the noise.
READ MORE: 9 Best Hiking Snacks, According To A Dietician
How To Book Your Trip
Ready to explore the magic of the Karoo? For details on packages, availability and to book your unforgettable Samara Karoo Reserve escape, simply reach out to the reservations team at +27 (0) 49 940 1111, email reservations@samara.co.za, or visit their website at www.samara.co.za.
This article first appeared in the November/December 2025 Issue of Women’s Health South Africa. Words by Chamain van Zyl.
