Final Farewell!
July 24, 2025
Greetings from South Africa!
The students have officially departed from Johannesburg and are on their way back to the States. While it’s always bittersweet to say goodbye, we want to take a moment to reflect on our last few days together and the memories we made as we wrapped up an incredible adventure.
We began our final stretch with an early morning game drive at Kwafubesi, soaking in the beauty of the reserve one last time before transitioning to Little Mongena. After a quick lunch, we headed out on a game drive that gave us one of our most thrilling sightings yet, as Ada and Willy were the first to spot a cheetah chasing after an impala, a remarkable example of some of the unfiltered nature that we were exposed to during the trip. When we got back to camp that evening, we found our rhythm in a drum circle led by the Drum Tribe. Elvis emerged as the group’s best drummer, while Margaret C brought the most energy, keeping us laughing and engaged the entire time. When the drumming ended, Belle kept the fun going as the best dancer in the group, closing the circle with a variety of unforgettable moves. We finished the night with a steak and pasta dinner, which served as our fuel for the next day.
The following day, we shifted our focus to service and community connection as we headed to Kekana. There, we met Anna, one of the local leaders, and began painting the interior of a school building. Throughout the day, we also had the chance to play with some of the children. AT stood out for the deep and genuine connections she formed, so much so that the kids were heartbroken to say goodbye when we left for the day. Sammy kept the energy high, teaching the kids the Cotton Eyed Joe and getting everyone dancing and laughing. Meanwhile, Dani and Betts got their hair braided by the kids, sitting in the shade while bonding over stories and laughter. After lunch, we returned to Little Mongena for some rest before heading out on another game drive, followed by a lively Potjie cooking competition where each team crafted their own version of the traditional South African stew.
The next day, we returned to Kekana to complete our painting project and enjoy more time with the kids. That afternoon, we packed our bags and set off on our overnight bush walk, an experience none of us will ever forget. Our destination was a remote campsite where we had dinner under the stars and huddled close in our sleeping bags for warmth. Margaret O stepped up as our marshmallow master, roasting the perfect treats for everyone and making our sleepout that much sweeter.
We woke up in the bush the next morning to a mini game drive, where lions approached our safari vehicles in a humbling and breathtaking encounter. After breakfast back at Little Mongena, we returned to Kekana one final time to paint, play, and say our goodbyes. Later that day, we took a peaceful boat cruise, letting the stillness of the water sink in before our final evening together. We ended our trip with a Braai, South Africa’s version of a barbecue, and had our last student-led Moonup. The night was filled with laughter, singing, and meaningful reflection. It was the perfect way to close out our time together.
Over the course of these two weeks, we were blown away by how awesome this group of students was. Each one brought something unique and special to the team, from their curiosity and energy to their kindness and humor. Watching them grow individually and as a group was truly a gift. We feel incredibly lucky to have gotten to know each of them, and we want to say a heartfelt thank you for making this trip so unforgettable. We’re so proud of all that they accomplished and the joy they brought to every moment.
With gratitude,
George and Eliza
South African Adventures
July 19, 2025
Hello from South Africa!
We’ve officially traded surfboards for safari vehicles and are now immersed in the bush at the incredible Mabula Game Reserve. After a smooth journey from Johannesburg, we’ve been welcomed by vast landscapes, starry skies, and some of the most iconic wildlife in the world.
Our time here has been full of hands-on learning and unforgettable experiences. Surrounded by open savannah and dense bush, we’ve explored sustainability, conservation, and how ecosystems function. On our very first drive through Mabula, we spotted a herd of elephants and watched the sun sink below the horizon while snacking on biltong, South Africa’s delicious version of beef jerky. We ended the night around a fire, sharing stories and soaking up the stars during Moonup.
One of our most exciting moments was a cheetah tracking walk guided by local ecologists. Trekking through the bush, we were lucky enough to observe two cheetahs up close in their natural habitat. Later, we ate lunch overlooking a peaceful lake, reflecting on how special the moment had been.
We also had the rare opportunity to assist in a rhino darting with conservation vets and researchers. Each student played an important role in the process. Ada held the oxygen tube steady, Betts measured the rhino’s horn, and Margaret C. collected a DNA sample from the tail. The team taught us about the threats these animals face and how anti-poaching measures are making a difference.
Another highlight came when we met with conservationists working to protect the endangered Ground Hornbill. They explained the delicate balance of helping this bird population recover and why it’s so important to biodiversity in the region. That same afternoon, we visited the lions on the far side of Mabula and observed the pride relaxing after feeding just hours earlier.
In the safari vehicles, Sammy has become our designated photographer, capturing every breathtaking moment with photos everyone’s eager to have. Dani introduced us to a new game that had kept us laughing for the whole drive. We still haven’t quite cracked the rules, but we know it involves naming what you’d bring to a picnic, and Dani mysteriously tells us if we’re “correct.”
We also got to ride in the back of a truck, known here as a bucky, to help feed the rhinos alfalfa, something the staff does during the dry winter months. The team explained how supplemental feeding supports the animals’ health through the season. While we were there, the group took part in a traditional Kudu Dung Spitting Contest-yes, it’s real and it’s exactly what it sounds like. William emerged victorious, even beating our safari guides. He’s a true legend in the making!
Evenings have been especially magical. After long days of exploration and learning, we gather around the fire to debrief, tell stories, and look up at the stars. One night, our guides organized a game called “Stalk the Lantern,” where we split into four teams and had to sneak through the bush toward a hidden light without being seen. Belle, Margaret O., and AT dominated the challenge and took home bragging rights.
We also had a lively game day one afternoon, and it’s official-Elvis is the reigning king of “Don’t Touch My Rock,” a high-stakes, high-energy camp favorite that brought out everyone’s competitive side.
We ended our stay at Mabula with a traditional Boma dinner, where we gathered around an open fire under the stars and enjoyed a delicious spread of local dishes. It was a beautiful and joyful way to celebrate the memories made here, share laughter over our favorite moments, and reflect on the powerful connections we’ve formed with the land, the people, and each other.
We’ve had such a meaningful and joyful time with your kids. Their energy, curiosity, and respect for the people and environment around them have been amazing to witness. We’re so proud of how they’ve leaned into every opportunity and can’t wait for the next part of the journey, where we’ll dive deeper into service and cultural immersion.
More soon from the Moondance crew!
Eliza and George
Shoutouts
Margaret C: Hiiii Mom and Dad!!! Thank you soooo much for this amazing trip! I have had the most amazing time and had hype best experience and have made amazing memories!!! I miss y’all and my friends sooooo much but am so sad to leave! We have to come back some day! Again, Happy Birthday SJ! And Stratt remember to come see me on July 24th! Love and miss y’all so much! Love, Margaret!
Elvis: Dear Mom, Dad, Colonel, and Theo, Thank you so much for sending me on this Moondance trip. It is a dream come true to see whale sharks in the wild and do field work with rhinos! I also have made connections with people I would have never met. Hope all of you and dogg are well (make sure to pet colonel). Again, thank you and adios!
Dani: Hi!! I want to thank you for sending me on this incredible experience. I could not be more grateful for everything you do for me. I love and miss you guys so much and cannot wait to tell you all of my stories. Please tell Cooper happy birthday!!!!
Margaret O: Dear Mom, Thank you for sending me to Saf and this gorgeous place. I wish you were here to experience every moment of it with me and I love you!
Dear Dad, Thank you so much! I miss you and I hope you had the best birthday. Also, you’re cool and I wish you were here to see everything. Thank you for evoking so hard to send me here. I have made lots of friends with awesome people! Love you so much!
Sammy: Hello from the Bush! Thank you all so so much for letting me go on this trip. It is truly the most amazing place I have ever been! Absolutely the craziest experience ever from seeing lions, rhinos, and whale sharks to surfing in the Indian Ocean. I even got to give a massive rhino a vaccine! The stars have been insane. We can even see the milky way and the small orange dot which is Mars. I would stay here forever if I could but I miss y’all! Also, happy birthday Mama! I love you bunches! See y’all soon!
Ada: Hiii! So glad to talk to you, I am still having an incredible time. I really really appreciate both of you for sending me on this trip, even though it must be sending me on this trip, even though it must be hard not to see your favorite child. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have the best time ever, and a unique experience. Love you both, Ada
AT: Hellllooo from SAF 3B! I would like to check in and say thank you sooo much for sending me on this once in a lifetime trip. I am having so much fun! I am very grateful for having a chance to go to an awesome place like this. I LOVE you all so much and see you soon! -AT
Betts: Dear mom and dad, thank you so much for sending me on this trip! I’m having the most amazing time and this is one of my new favorite places in the world. I don’t want the trip to end, but I can’t wait to tell yall about all the fun I’ve had! Love and miss you guys so much. xoxo, Betts
William: Dear Mom y Dad, thank you so much for sending me on this trip. I am having a blast! I will tell you all about it when I get home. Cya later! -Willy
Belle: Hello from the bush!!! Hi mom and dad. I am having the most fun everrrrrrr!!! Thank you so so much for this opportunity and everything you do for me and the girls. Can’t wait to tell you all about it! Love yall -Belle D
Greetings from Africa!
July 15, 2025
After a long stretch of delays and cancellations, we were thrilled to finally have all of our students safely in Johannesburg. Huge thanks to each and every parent who helped make that happen. We truly could not have done it without you. Once everyone was together, the energy was high and the excitement to get started was contagious.
Our first full day as a group was a travel day to the coast. We took a short flight from Johannesburg to Inhambane, Mozambique, then made our way to Tilak Lodge in Tofo Beach. The views from the vans gave us our first real glimpse of this beautiful country. After a fresh lunch at the lodge, we headed out for a Dhow boat sunset cruise. With fresh fruit in hand and calm waters around us, the group began to settle into our new surroundings. That evening, we ended the day with our first full Moonup, a quiet and meaningful time to reflect as a group. Ada and Sammy stepped up as our first Leaders of the Day and led with confidence and sincerity. They set a great tone for the trip with thoughtful questions and heartfelt reflections that helped everyone begin to open up.
The next morning, we jumped straight into adventure with our first surf lesson. Margaret C. and Betts caught the same wave together, laughing all the way to the beach. Willy stood up on his very first attempt and absolutely crushed it, earning some serious cheers from the group. While half the group surfed, the others relaxed on the sand, and then we switched. After a quick lunch, we geared up for our first ocean safari, and it was an unforgettable experience. We had the chance to swim alongside dolphins, a manta ray, and most exciting of all, whale sharks. Dani was the last one out of the water, completely mesmerized by their size and grace. Watching her float alongside a whale shark in complete awe was a moment none of us will forget.
That afternoon, we explored the local market, where students got to meet vendors and purchase handcrafted souvenirs. The energy was high and the conversations were full of curiosity. We also got a chance to stop by the surf shop to pick up some rad merch. Back at Tilak, we wound down with some rest, dinner, and some late night conversations on the porch.
The following morning, we headed out for our second ocean safari. Conditions made marine life harder to find, but just when we thought the ocean might be quiet, we spotted blue whales in the distance. It was a humbling and powerful moment that reminded us how special this place really is. Later in the day, we returned to the beach for another surf session. Ann Tolly kept the energy high, trying to rally the group into catching a “party wave” together. There were plenty of wipeouts and plenty of laughs, and everyone was cheering each other on whether they caught a wave or not.
The next day brought one of our favorite cultural experiences so far: a local cooking class where we learned to make Matapa, a traditional Mozambican dish. Many students jumped in to help prepare the meal. Elvis grated fresh coconut, Margaret O. took charge of crushing the peanuts, and Belle squeezed out the coconut milk. It was amazing to see everyone engaged and contributing to something so meaningful. We shared the final dish for lunch, and it was a delicious, group-made meal we were all proud of.
We’ve now made our way back to Johannesburg and are getting ready for the next chapter of our adventure. Next up, we head into the game reserves for safari. Spirits are high, the group bond is strong, and we’re excited to see what the next phase holds.
Until next time,
George and Eliza
Shoutouts
Betts: Hi mom and dad! I miss you guys so much! Mozambique was so much fun and so pretty. I loved going surfing and swimming in the ocean with my new friends. Sending love from South Africa!! PS: tell my friends + Louise and Swin that I miss them ❤️Betts
William: Dear Big Kev and Momma, I loved Mozambique! We should definitely come back sometime. I like everyone here, they’re really nice. I miss y’all, but don’t wanna leave. I can’t wait for the second part of our trip. Cya Big Willy out.
Dani: Hiiiii!!! Mozambique was gorgeous and so much fun. I am so excited to go to the safari and service portion. Hope y’all are having fun in Scotland and Germany. I miss and love you two. Plus, tell my friends and Cooper I also love and miss them. Bye from Bubble Guppy
Sammy: Africa is one thousand percent the most amazing place I have ever been! The people here are super cool and friendly. I have surfed (basically a pro), snorkeled, and gone to the Tofo market where I bought some great things. I have yet to run and fight the lions and hippos, but rest assured that is coming up! Love yall a million! Sammy
Margaret O: Hi Mom & Dad, thanks for activating my card. I miss you so much. Mom would love Mozambique and we have to come back. And to William, I miss you. Tell Lauren I miss her and also tell Will Mayo & Wendy Schmidt . Ok love you Mom, dad, and William. Give poo poo hugs for me and stay cool. Btw I’m going by Hannah for some reason cus there is another Margaret, so bye for now. Love, Hannah
Ada: Hi mother and father! I miss you guys sooo much. I am having the time of my life! We saw 3 whale sharks – 2 at once! The flight was not fun, but I am having a great time to make up for it. I love everyone in my group, and I can’t wait for the next part of the trip. Love you’re fav child, Ada
Elvis: Hey guys! How are yall? We just got back from Mozambique which was super cool! We saw 5 whale sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales and hung out at the beach. Tell colonel and Theo I said hi!
Belle: Hey my peeps. Just got back from Mozambique and had the best time at Tofo beach. I swam with 3 whale sharks and surfed. OTW to the game reserve! Tell everyone I say what’s up from South Africa! #Shakaaaaa. Peace and Love, your fav daughter.
Ann Tolly: Yo what’s up fam! Having a blast out here in SAF + Mozambique. We just finished up our tropical part and it was fire! Now, we are going to go and see the animals. I miss you all and can’t wait to see y’all soon. Tell my friends I miss them. Tell Sunday I miss her! Your fav, Ann Tolly
Margaret C: Hiiiiiiii Mom and Dad! Mozambique was sooooooo fun! We have to go there! I love and miss y’all so much! Luvie and the rest of the fam, I miss y’all and I miss my friends too! Also, tell SJ to look at this because… Happy Birthday SJ! I’m so sad to miss your bday but have the best sweet 16 ever! I love and miss you lots! Also, Stratt, please come and get me from the airport! I love and miss y’all!
