Pedalling through the wilds of Ngangane Game Reserve
Lesedi Mkhutshwa | Tuesday February 20, 2024 11:31
Cycling in the wilderness is not commonplace in Botswana but is considered to be one of the greatest ways of experiencing the natural outdoors and exploring the incomparable beauty and breathtaking scenery of wild animals and different geographic features.
Ngangane Reserve Game, which is located approximately 40 kilometres or 45 minutes’ drive up the Old Matsiloje Road, offers the ultimate safari experience. Unlike national parks where mobility is limited, visitors to Ngangane get to explore the reserve with specialised guides on foot or four-wheeled drive as well as on e-bicycle which offer an unforgettable experience.
During a recent media tour, on a bright morning in the midst of the wilderness, I stood at a crossroad about which tour to participate in.
Should I opt for the traditional self-drive safari or dare for something new and exhilarating in the e-bike tour through the game reserve? That was the question at the moment.
After initial hesitation, I found myself riding an e-bike with Duma FM’s Francistown based reporter, Mountjoy Chikura, through the savannah experiencing the rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins.
It was a feeling unlike any other and it ignited a passion for adventure that I had not experienced in a very long time.
As we cycled through the reserve, we caught the sight of a variety of wildlife from antelopes, ostriches, waterbucks, wild pigs, various bird species and others, to only mention a few. Ngangane Game Reserve is also home other wild animals such as giraffes and leopards.
It was an incredible experience to be so close to these majestic animals, observing their behaviour in their natural habitat.
As we cycled through the wild, there was a point where we were unsure of which route to take and felt lost. However, when we came across a water point on the right along Amarula road going to the Fish Dam, we realised that we were on the right direction towards the crossroads.
Despite the thighs and backsides feeling sore from not having cycled in over a decade, the thrill of the adventure kept us going. The e-bicycle made the journey through the savannah effortless and exhilarating.
As I pedalled down the gravel road, surrounded by the lush vegetation of the wilderness, the flexibility and speed of the e-bicycle allowed me to explore more of my surroundings than I ever could have in a vehicle.
Cycling is truly a win-win activity, offering both fitness and enjoyment.
The wilds were a world away from the hustle and bustle of the town. The only sounds that could be heard were the birds singing and the rustling of the leaves in the wind. Additionally, the peace and quiet were a balm to my soul and I felt a deep sense of connection to the natural world. It was as if I was one with the wilderness and it was healing my spirit. The quietness gave our tag team the chance to reflect and recharge, in the process feeling rejuvenated by the experience.
Activities such as the e-bike through the savannah can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety and improve mental health. Some people even refer to it as “forest bathing” or “earthling” and there is scientific evidence to support its benefits.
The term forest bathing emerged in Japan in the 1980s as a physiological and psychological exercise called shinrin-yoku. In addition, forest bathing is not just for the wilderness-lover; the practice can be as simple as walking in any natural environment and consciously connecting with what’s around you.
Before the cycling adventure, as part of the tour, members of the media participated in a game drive in which we headed to different sundowners, being the Plateau and Kopjies which gave a unique view of the reserve’s surroundings.
At the Kopjies sundowner, the team managed to view wild animals such as zebras and giraffes, as the sun went down.
The sight of these majestic creatures was a real treat and it was indeed a privilege to witness them in their natural habitat.
Let me also mention the staff at the Ngangane Hotel, who were incredibly friendly and welcoming. They went out of their way to make the team feel at home and their hospitality was a huge part of what made the trip so special.
The hotel itself was very luxurious and comfortable, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of adventure.
And the food was out of this world as the team was treated to a delicious steak, creamy potatoes and a delectable green salad topped with a scrumptious cake for dessert. Through the culinary delights, our taste buds were just as satisfied as our minds and bodies.
It was the perfect way to end a day full of adventure.