Walking with Gentle Giants

Moketsi and Bakari finishing their encounter with guests.

Elephants have been my favorite animal since I was 2 years old. I found them fascinating, especially after watching Barney’s “Camera Safari” episode with the iconic elephant song. I’ve always dreamed of meeting one, so I was beyond excited to hear that Indalu Game Reserve offered something called an elephant walk.

On one windy day in March, I arrived at Indalu and had the opportunity to walk with Moketsi, a 30-year-old African elephant bull. Starstruck can’t even begin to describe how I felt when meeting this elephant, I was left shy and a little speechless. My biggest concern throughout the whole interaction was respecting his space, but Moketsi was professional and walked gracefully down the reserve path. Touching an elephant and walking alongside this gentle giant really put in perspective how beautiful these animals are. I really believe I fell in love with the species all over again.

If you’re ever in the Mossel Bay, South Africa area, I highly recommend participating in the elephant walk and experience at Indalu Game Reserve. It is a wonderful, family-owned reserve that truly loves and cherishes these gentle giants. For more information on this experience, visit indalu.co.za.