Where was Holiday in the Wild filmed?

The movie begins with a scene that is as heartbreaking as it is transformative. Kate Conrad (Kristin Davis) is a former veterinarian who plans a surprise second honeymoon to Zambia for her husband, Drew (Colin Moss), after their son Luke (John Owen Lowe) leaves for college. However, Drew confesses that he no longer loves Kate and was waiting until their son left for college before ending the marriage.

This pivotal scene sets the stage for Kate's journey of self-discovery and growth throughout the film. The opening scenes were shot in the vibrant city of New York, which starkly contrasts the serene landscapes of Zambia that become Kate's refuge.

New York is a city that is always captivating with its towering skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, and pulsating energy. The city's distinctive art, food, fashion, and nightlife scenes add to its allure. Some of the most mesmerizing sights include Central Park, the High Line, Manhattan's skyline viewed from the One World Observatory or Top of the Rock, and the Statue of Liberty seen from a boat cruise in the New York Harbor.

Although the exact filming locations in New York aren't specified, the city itself is a must-visit. Whether strolling through Central Park, cruising around the harbor, or exploring the bustling streets, there's always something new and exciting.

Getting to New York is relatively straightforward, with three major airports serving the city: JFK International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. From there, the city's extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis, makes it easy to navigate to different locations. Visitors can also opt for guided tours to explore the city's many sights and attractions.

Kate (Kristin Davis) decides to embark on their planned Zambian honeymoon alone. She meets Derek (Rob Lowe) at the hotel bar, a fellow guest who tries to converse with her. Irritated, Kate confesses her predicament and leaves. The next day, she discovers that Derek is the pilot for her chartered flight to the next resort.

The scenes at the hotel and airport were shot in Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia. Lusaka is an emerging tourism center that blends modern living and traditional African culture. It boasts shopping malls, suburbs, bustling market areas, stores, and cafes with lounges that provide exciting nightlife. Although the exact filming locations in Lusaka aren't specified, the city is worth exploring. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant city life before heading on a safari adventure.

Getting to Lusaka is relatively straightforward, as it is well-connected with major African destinations through Lusaka International Airport. It's just a 30-minute taxi ride or an hour and a half on a public bus with one transfer from the airport. Once in the city, visitors can explore various attractions via local transportation or guided tours.

Kate (Kristin Davis) embarks on a chartered flight piloted by Derek (Rob Lowe). In an unexpected twist, Derek lands the plane in the wilderness, where they come across a baby elephant traumatized by the loss of its mother to poachers. Drawing upon her previous training as a veterinarian, Kate steps up to offer her help when the rescue team arrives.

This poignant scene was filmed at Game Rangers International Elephant Orphanage in Lusaka, Zambia, highlighting the often-unseen consequences of poaching and the importance of wildlife conservation. Great care was taken to ensure the welfare of the elephants during filming, including conducting a focused behavior study, setting personnel and distance restrictions, and involving international animal welfare inspectors.

In 2022, Game Rangers International opened a unique Wildlife Discovery Centre. This center is also the new home of GRI's renowned Elephant Nursery, which has moved entirely from Lilayi. The Wildlife Discovery Centre aims to provide free conservation education to children and welcomes local and international visitors annually. It allows visitors to immerse themselves in interactive displays and exhibits that shed light on conservation issues and efforts to address them.

To visit the GRI Wildlife Discovery Centre, you can fly into Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, Zambia. From there, it's about a half-hour drive to Lusaka National Park, where the center is located.

Derek (Rob Lowe) escorts Kate (Kristin Davis) on a farewell five-star safari. This scene is captivating, with viewers able to witness the pair traversing through stunning landscapes populated by giraffes and elephants, all set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring natural beauty. The journey culminates in a serene riverside picnic, creating an unforgettable moment in their adventure.

Some of the sequences were filmed at Jabulani, which is renowned for its commitment to wildlife conservation. The surrounding Kapama Game Reserve enhances the authenticity of the safari setting in the film. Spanning over 15,000 hectares of unspoiled South African bushland, Kapama provides a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. A few members of the Jabulani Herd of resident elephants even make cameo appearances, further adding to the film's charm and realism.

Jabulani and Kapama Game Reserve offer luxury lodges for visitors seeking an immersive safari experience. These include the old-world charm of Buffalo Camp, the welcoming warmth of Southern Camp, the dynamic River Lodge, the exclusive Kapama Kruger Homestead, and the unrivaled luxury of the flagship lodge, Kapama Karula. For those seeking a unique and romantic experience, the sleep-out platform offers the chance to sleep under the stars.

To get to Jabulani and Kapama Game Reserve, one can fly into Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS), the closest airport to the reserve. From there, it's a short drive to the reserve. Alternatively, it's around a 5-hour drive via N12 from Johannesburg if you travel by road.