Known as @pilotmadeleine on Instagram with 1.1 million followers, Madeleine Schneider-Weiffenbach calls herself a "blogger & globetrotter" — and she also happens to be a trained pilot on the hunt for a job. With her family she has just visited Rhulani Safari Lodge and is telling about her experience.

Madeleine, just tell us about your first experience with the African bush

We were having breakfast this morning when our ranger walked in and asked us if we wanted to see a leopard that was spotted just two minutes from the lodge. It was incredible, I have never seen a leopard in the wild. The animals we have seen in general are just fantastic. On our first game drive we saw elephants, rhinos, giraffes and much more.

You've probably seen almost everything on your travels around the world. Why is the experience with Rhulani Safari Lodge still special?

I have traveled a lot, but I have never done a safari before. It's just magical and there are no words to describe this experience. The animals, so many at once, and so close. We came across a herd of 30 elephants. I've never seen that before. It takes time to process the many impressions. I have not yet managed to edit my many photos and publish them on social media. I am sure this will not be our last safari.

How did you incorporate Rhulani Safari Lodge into your travel program?

Me and my family are from Germany. First we spent nine days in Cape Town, where our little son celebrated his first birthday. We then spent three days in Welgevonden before we arrived at Rhulani for another 3 nights. It was a wonderful trip from start to finish. Tomorrow, unfortunately, we'll be going home.

How were you looked after at Rhulani Safari Lodge?

It is uniquely beautiful here, the location, the African style of the lodge, the design, the wonderful plunge pool on our terrace… And what strikes me very much: the service is excellent, everyone is so friendly and the food is excellent.

What is your experience of traveling with your one year old son?

Fortunately, our little son is very relaxed. We had no problem so far and he enjoys the vacation and warmth here in South Africa. We were lucky because small children are not allowed in all the lodges. Everyone is so nice with him here, which is very different than in Europe. Yesterday my friend and I went on the afternoon safari, leaving our little one with the babysitter. So we had time for ourselves, which is rather rare, and that was nice!