Last weekend I went to Lion Sands, a private reserve in Sabi Sands. Ivory Sands lodge is over-the-top – my chalet had two parts, separated by an overflow pool overlooking the bush which was filled with bushbuck, monkeys, and a stray elephant or two.

On the right side was a living area, with a fireplace, fully stocked fridge, and a porthole through which the butler delivered coffee, tea, or cocoa in the morning.

On the left side was the bed and bath area, which included a mosquito-net covered heated bed, a ginormous bathtub with every imaginable bath scrub and gel, and an outdoor shower.

The night sky was breathtakingly beautiful – more stars than I can remember seeing anywhere – ever. I made an attempt – ok, maybe half a dozen aattempts – at some long exposure star trail photographs.

And of course, there were also animals. (click to play slideshow)