(And yes, that’s the proper term.)

This was the first human baby the clan had ever seen.

Before I continue, I’m aware thattaking an infant on safarisounds out there.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Credit: Kathryn Romeyn

In contrast to her small COVID bubble at home, Indah’s safari sphere was infinite.

They captivated our baby birder, her eyes dancing trying to follow them.

“Her whole 10 months,” cracked Keith.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

These giant animals full of grace seemed to notice our tiny Dr. Dolittle, who spoke to them exuberantly.

As a soon-to-be first-time dad, he loved her enthusiasm.

I quickly begin nursing her as he walked past, a few nail-biting feet away.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

I got to take the magnificent parade in with my eyes instead of through a camera.

In the excitement, Indah fell asleep, soothed somehow by the deafening cacophony of birds.

Mama, a mere 15 feet from our vehicle, actually jumped, turned, and trotted away.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

Yes, our child’s number two ended this most intimate rhino encounter.

A fellow diner aptly described it as the “James Bond of dining experiences.”

At Sabi Sabi, our housekeeper, Busi, doubled as a babysitter.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

(The concept of letting a baby fall back asleep unassisted does not seem to translate.)

Gordon had promised these properties would cater well to Indah, and she was spot on.

Sabi Sabi has a vibrant, vast kids' camp, dubbed EleFun Centre.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

Our first attempt was somehow smoother than in a high chair, despite bumping along corduroy roads.

We also stashed croissants and rusks for a mid-drive snack to keep Indah occupied.

A few more practical tips: Pack lots of layers for multiple seasons in one day.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

Above all, be comfortable with flexibility.

It’s amazing how alittle one’s enthusiasm for exciting newnesscan trump exhaustion.

Our guides were adaptable to our timing, plus we had a private vehicle.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn

It was a wonderfully chill vibe with less pressure than on previous safaris.

Romeyn Family on safari in South Africa with 10 month old baby

Kathryn Romeyn