26/07/2026
Some of the many highlights from an unforgettable adventure, shared with yet another incredible group of people who arrived as strangers and left as family.
A heartfelt thank you to Jacques for capturing the spirit of our journey so beautifully in this incredible poem. Your words perfectly reflect the laughter, friendships, challenges, and unforgettable memories we created together. We truly appreciate the time and thought you put into this—it means more than you know.
As you scroll through these photos, we hope they bring this wonderful poem to life and remind everyone who joined us why these adventures are about so much more than the destinations.
"A Sebata Journey"
So we left Victoria Falls with Sebata in the lead,
Eager for adventure and whatever roads we’d meet.
Beneath wide skies Rick and Sammy set the pace,
Aboard their mighty V6 Land Cruiser through every place,
Tracking wonders unseen to most who pass them by,
A juvenile crowned eagle spotted beneath the African sky.
Steady Sammy keeps the plans from going astray,
Each camp and crossing timed just right each day.
Bolts and bearings are Rick’s familiar art,
A master mechanic with a spotter’s heart.
Through every new sight and each challenge we face,
Alongside Rick and Sammy, we travel with grace.
Side by side Doug and Bridgette travel with cheer,
Every laugh they share brings good spirits near.
Bouncing along in their faithful Hilux ride,
Always happy with adventure at their side.
Together they brighten each stop and each fire,
Adding warmth with Doug’s dad jokes we can’t help but admire.
Swift and fearless, Tory takes every bend,
Even teasing can’t stop her smile in the end.
Behind the wheel of her fierce little Jimny she flies,
And other drivers scatter—or so our joke implies.
Tough as the tracks that wind far and free,
A true Sebata spirit for all to see.
Sharing this journey with my daughter who came along for the ride,
Every day brought teasing for Sofie, though she took it in stride.
Beneath the pontoon crossing came worry and nervous moments,
And yet she faced her fears and crossed despite the torment.
Tales spread that her bright-coloured pants attracted hippos near,
And that running joke kept laughter ringing through the camp with cheer.
So came my birthday as the sun rose today,
Early laughter and well wishes setting the tone for the day.
Beneath the stars no grand celebration was needed,
Around us the journey itself felt more than completed.
Together the company became the real gift of the day,
And I grew richer in memories that will never fade away.
Strangers we were when first our paths aligned,
Each with our own stories and dreams intertwined.
But strangers no more, as companions we became,
A family called Sebata, united in name.
Though miles may divide us, Zimbabwe stays in our hearts,
And forever we’ll carry its spirit—and each other—even when life takes us far.
— Jacques & Sophie De Hulsters
