Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Wesley Hobbs has treasured memories of going on safaris when he was just a preteen and teenager — but he never suspected, at that time, he would be hosting them one day. Having a heart for service, Hobbs began volunteering in high school for a ministry known as Teach Every Nation, a nonprofit with the mission to equip and train under-resourced pastors in more than 140 countries.
Soon enough, he found a distinct calling, hosting enthusiastic guests at a magical place known as the Hippo Lakes Luxury African Safari Lodge — which is owned by and financially supports the mission of Teach Every Nation — and helping others discover and appreciate the beauty of Africa he had known since boyhood. “Eventually, I started selling the Hippo Lakes safaris, and my role grew,” he says.
Today, Hobbs stays busy as the director of sales at Hippo Lakes Luxury African Safari Lodge and the director of development at Teach Every Nation. Situated on “a beautiful lake with resident hippos,” in the words of Hobbs, the Lodge is a surprisingly worry-free place to visit. Daily nonstop flights from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport land in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and no special visas are required to experience South Africa. “Each year, South Africa has more than 350,000 visitors from the United States who come for the safari and Cape Town experiences [except during the pandemic],” Hobbs notes.
And it’s no wonder that they do — a stay at the Hippo Lakes Lodge rivals the most luxurious global hotels. Situated in a prime area known as the Waterberg Biosphere, the Hippo Lakes site is about three and a half hours north of Johannesburg and about 4,000 feet above sea level, hence, there is no risk of malaria and no additional vaccinations are needed. “It is understood that probably due to the altitude, the mosquitoes do not carry malaria in the Waterberg like they would in the lowveld,” Hobbs explains. “[The altitude] also means temperatures are quite moderate year-round. Unlike other parts of South Africa, humidity is low in the summer, and winter temperatures are moderate.”
After a restful night’s slumber in the accommodations of Hippo Lakes, travelers may choose from a variety of activities. Because the surrounding lakes are filled with catfish, bass and tilapia, fishing is a favorite pastime — but watch out for crocodiles who might eyeball your latest catch. Opportunities abound to meet and talk to the rangers, who are readily available to share friendly beers by the fire and chat about the natural world.
And, of course, the flagship experience of Hippo Lakes — the amazing glamping safaris — are a draw for every guest. From gourmet lunches and dinners to guided drives on the reserve in search of wildlife to add-on excursions such as Elephant Interactions, Helicopter Safaris and more, Hippo Lakes guests have the ultimate setup for adventure.
For Hobbs, sharing the joy of a safari and the beauty of his homeland is the reason every day at Hippo Lakes is rewarding. “Some of my favorite memories are going on safaris with my family,” he says. “For my honeymoon, I took my wife Sophia to Hippo Lakes and Cape Town. I love South Africa, and I love safaris.”
Daily nonstop flights from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport land in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and no special visas are required to experience South Africa.