Silvan Safari Presents: Roy’s Dam Live Feed

How do you truly honour someone whose impact on your life and family has been so profound? There’s no simple answer. Paying homage to someone like that takes time – an endless stretch, really – because memories live with you forever. We wanted to mark a man who left an imprint on so many people’s lives. And what better place to do it than in one of his favourite places in the world, Silvan Safari?

Silvan isn't just a place, it's a feeling

The Name Roy

David Ryan, the owner of our beloved Silvan Safari Lodge, is my brother. I've watched him dream up the lodge and bring its wonders to fruition. And so did my father, Roy Ryan.

As we approach the first anniversary of our father's passing, it's a time to pause and reflect. Alongside David, we've been so extremely fortunate to be able to design, build and operate Silvan Safari Lodge. And it was through David’s passion that Silvan Safari Lodge grew into Africa's leading luxury lodge, a place that holds deep meaning for all of us.

A Space to Heal

When Dad passed away in November 2023, we knew it was vital for Mom to have space to grieve the loss of her husband, soulmate, best friend, and our father. Married for over 55 years, she holds a lifetime of memories with him.

Amidst the overwhelming sadness, my brother David made sure Mom had time to begin this journey of reflection. He decided to take her up to Silvan Safari Lodge, a place where she could breathe, process the past days, and start to find peace.

My dad was always happiest when he was out in nature

You’re Not Alone

Upon their arrival, they were met with a unique greeting: a large bull elephant standing at the entrance. Calm and patient, the elephant seemed as if he had all the time in the world. He remained there for the entire day, quietly watching over Mom as she sat on the deck, taking in the beauty around her. It felt as if the elephant was offering quiet reassurance, as if to say, "Don't worry – I’m here, watching over you."

This moment was profoundly fitting. I've always believed that the animals of the Sabi Sand have been our greatest teachers, reminding us to respect and cherish the world around us. Silvan Safari was built with that same reverence, a reflection of our gratitude for the wild spaces that have become part of our lives.

The power in the presence of such a being is breathtaking

Where Roy’s Spirit Lives On

For many years, Roy cherished these lands, sharing countless memories with us as a family. But there is one spot that will always carry his presence – a dam where he often sat, quietly watching the wildlife. This was his place of peace, a simple, sacred retreat.

Naming this place "Roy’s Dam" felt like a natural way to honour his memory. It’s a space where anyone can pause, reflect, and find solace in the beauty of the African wilderness.

A Global Window to the Wild

As we prepared to commemorate Dad’s legacy, my brother David envisioned something even greater. By partnering with AfriCam, we brought Roy’s Dam to the world through a live feed. Now, viewers everywhere can witness life at the dam – whether it’s a herd of impala cautiously drinking or a lone elephant at sunset. The camera blends into the landscape, capturing these raw, unscripted moments that make Roy’s Dam feel alive.

On the surface, Roy’s Dam might seem like just another watering hole in the Sabi Sand Reserve. But for us, it’s where Dad’s spirit lingers – a tribute to his love for the wild. And now, through the live feed, it has become a place where people from all over the world can connect with Africa’s untamed beauty, even from afar.

Stay connected to the bush from anywhere in the world with our live feed from Roy's Dam

Witness Life at Roy’s Dam

In truth, there’s no better way to honour my father. Roy’s Dam serves as a reminder that while someone may leave us, their legacy remains – whether in the lives they touched or in a quiet spot of significance.

And who knows? Perhaps the next time you tune into Roy's Dam, you'll see that same bull elephant standing guard just as he did on that day, offering his quiet presence once more. The Roy’s Dam Live Feed is our gift to the world – a place to pause, reflect, and experience the peaceful moments that make life truly extraordinary.

Take a virtual step into Silvan Safari. You can watch the wildlife action and listen to the symphony of the bush in the live feed here.