Looking back at 2016, one of the most unforgettable moments at Hlosi Game Lodge has to be the day a buffalo decided to take a dip in the pool - and then head straight to the bar. It was the kind of story that starts with “a buffalo walks into a bar,” and it still makes us smile.

The bull had been wandering along the fence line for a few days, keeping a curious eye on the lodge. One day, he slipped through a gap in the fence, took a refreshing swim in our pool, and made himself right at home.

Our team acted quickly, contacting the reserve vet to make sure the bull was safe and not under any stress. Since the pool at Hlosi is shallow, most of his massive frame stayed above water, so we monitored him closely to ensure he remained calm and comfortable.

After a relaxing nap in "suite number one," the bull made his way to the bar - much to the surprise (and amusement) of our guests. Incredibly, he explored the bar without causing any damage, sniffing around before casually exiting through another door.

“He didn’t break anything, hurt himself, or disturb the space - just a quick visit and off he went,” recalled Shane van Moerkerken, our spokesperson at the time.

Guests managed to snap a few photos of the bull’s impromptu visit, giving them a story to tell for a lifetime. It’s moments like these that remind us just how wild and wonderful life at Hlosi can be!