worst game drive ever.

we were crammed in. two families with small children had to hold the little ...ones under the age of 4 on their laps the entire way.
Alcohol allowed on what should have been a family drive.
Drunk guest allowed to get on , harrassed and disturb everyone including urinating at one stop.
At no time were we asked if we were comfortable or infact comfortable with the guest harassing us.
Hardly any animals seen and we got close to only a herd of zebra that darted when the vehicle scared them. I saw more animals diving in and out the resort myself than on the drive.
my childs questions were ignored and he was blatantly spoken over by the guide.
No apologies to those on the game drive after the incident.
For such and established space this was disappointing and ruined what should have been a good weekend. See More

My husband and I spent yesterday at Thali Thali. We have been in South African a week now on our own... birding. We booked a am & pm game drive and lunch.
Our adventure started as soon as we turned into the long drive back to the lodge, we saw a capped wheatear, black headed heron, and a southern shrike . Just to log a few.
Once we parked the car, in the shaded parking area, and started walking toward the reception area; we were impressed with the art and gardens. Also were able to log a few birds coming to a sprinkler head that had a little water coming out for them to bath.
Upon entering the restaurant, we were very warmly greeted by Amelia, one of the owners.
A few minutes later, Charlie came and introduced himself as the guide that would be doing the drive with us.
Charlie and Nora, his beautiful dog, took us for a fabulous adventure where he helped us to see 13 species of animals. Along with lots of emu and ostriches. Charlie was excellent at giving us information about the plants and animals. As well as, identifying several bird for us.
Upon our return to the restaurant, we were seated and our drink orders taken. Later the waitress answered Carl's questions about menu items that we did recognize. Carl decided he was going to try the eland steak. He was surprised at the serving size when his meal arrived. But enjoyed every bite.
We did a little birding around the restaurant and then rested on the chairs until time for the next game drive with Charlie and Nora that was equally as exciting!! Charlie spotted a Cape Cobra and Carl captured a picture before he drove into a mole mound.

When Carl was planning our trip, we did not think about game reserves as an option for sleeping accommodations. I am sure we could have logged a few of the night birds if we had spent the night.

On our return drive to Cape Town, we will be stopping to lunch and do some more birding. See More