This month, participants gathered at the International Association for Mission Studies (IAMS) General Assembly and Conference held at the University of South Africa in Johannesburg from July 16 to 26. Afterwards, attendees ventured to Kruger National Park for safari experiences, highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity.
A safari tour initiated the adventure in the Skukuza area of the park, with an early morning trip at 6:30 a.m. Travelers boarded open military-style vehicles designed for rugged terrain. As the tour began, the chilly dawn air cut through as the vehicle navigated vast, unspoiled plains, raising questions of how such natural beauty exists alongside human roads.
Throughout the tour, wildlife sightings included impressive herds of impala, known for their graceful appearances. A dramatic moment unfolded as a lion captured an impala, with a hyena seizing a piece of meat from the ensuing chaos. This scene, reminiscent of natural documentaries, created an unforgettable thrill.
Giraffes were another highlight of the safari. The vehicle halted to allow these towering animals to cross, adding to the serene atmosphere of the vast wilderness, where the only sound was the wind sweeping across the plains.
Reflecting on the experience, many participants noted the striking similarities between the setting and classic adventure films, recalling characters like Tarzan and Indiana Jones. The guides, dressed in traditional safari attire, further enhanced this adventurous ambiance.
As the vehicles traversed the rugged landscape, travelers were treated to panoramic views where the horizon met the sky. The untouched expanses of Kruger National Park described by visitors evoked the feeling of being in a “garden of the gods,” with unique trees and a sense of timelessness permeating the scenery.
This immersive safari experience is not just about witnessing wildlife; it offers a profound connection to nature’s beauty and history, making it a memorable chapter for attendees.
Lee Nan-hee studied English and Theology at Hanshin University.
