17 minute read
SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA
LUXURY AND ADVENTURE: THE SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI EXPERIENCE
CHEETAH PLAINS
A NEXT LEVEL PRIVATE & SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCE IN SOUTH AFRICA’S SABI SAND NATURE RESERVE
Redefining the ultimate notion of a sustainable luxury safari in South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife area, the Sabi Sand, adjacent to the Kruger Park, Cheetah Plains indulges guests in a personalised and private experience of a lifetime. Perfect for an exclusive family gathering or a luxurious sojourn with friends, the private villas are set against the magnificent backdrop of the African bushveld. Introducing a new age of carbon-negative luxury by pioneering the silent safari and driving a singular approach to renewable energy in the wild, the result is a rare, refined and exceptionally sustainable experience in the bush, immersing you in a truly unforgettable stay.
The three private villas each accommodate a maximum of eight guests and boast interiors that redefine convention by sensitively translating architectural sophistication in the bush. The villas, Mapogo, Karula, and Mvula, are named after famous wild cats that have been a significant part of the history of the area, and blend respectfully into the surrounding environment through their modern design and use of natural materials.
Each villa boasts four stand-alone private guest suites and a shared living space that houses an entertaining lounge, living and dining room areas, expansive swimming pool with deck, outdoor boma for fireside dining, fine wine gallery, and fully equipped chef’s kitchen. They also each come with a complete hospitality team consisting of an accomplished host, butler, culinary team, and spa therapist, as well as an expert field guide and tracker dedicated to guests for the duration of their stay. The location and unique appointment of each villa is a respectful homage to their secluded, tranquil environment. Welcoming children of all ages, each safari hideaway provides groups with a unique bushveld retreat unlike any other.
THE ULTIMATE SILENT SAFARI
A bold advance toward zero-emission game viewing is what drives the sustainable safari experience at Cheetah Plains. The twice-daily game drives are taken in innovative Land Cruiser Electric Safari Vehicles powered by solar energy. The quiet, smooth gait of the vehicles deliver the highest quality wildlife sightings and include eight comfortable bucket seats, individually set at the optimal recline of 11 degrees, USB ports, and heated seats. Their unobtrusive nature facilitates the most silent approach by vehicle, resulting in unparalleled wildlife experiences. Onboard, bird books, Swarovski and Leica binoculars, and a professional level camera fitted with a telephoto lens are provided for guests’ enjoyment while out on a game drive.
EMPOWERING TOURISM
Cheetah Plains built and continues to support the Lezagwa Utah Crèche, a local early childhood development centre in the neighbouring community which provides employment, education and community upliftment. As part of a community waste management initiative, the lodge waste is divided at source and collected bi-weekly by a local operative that makes a living by reusing, recycling and upcycling materials. A holistic approach to responsible tourism that only further ensures the longevity of operations and sustainable offering.
BUSH WALKS
For the most immersive safari experience, guests are invited to embark on guided, interpretive bush walks. Accompanied by an expert field guide and tracker, the opportunity to explore certain parts of the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve on foot, is one not to be missed. Experiencing a guided bush walk grants an even deeper connection for guests to immerse themselves in nature where the ecosystem is deeply felt. The durations of walks are easily customised to guest requirements, taking the number of guests, fitness levels, ages, weather conditions, and the preferred game drive schedules into account.
AN EPICUREAN AFFAIR
Dining preferences and requirements at Cheetah Plains are an important part of guests’ stay, and they take pride in delivering a host of unique experiences.
Headed by Chef Charlaine-Lee Fouche and inspired by the setting and style of Cheetah Plains, guests will have a taste of varying flavours and cooking techniques driven by five-star standards and best practices in sustainability. Each villa’s dedicated culinary team, including a private pastry chef, is committed to creating new inventive dishes to accentuate the freshness of seasonal local ingredients and showcase exquisite international dishes through a careful balancing of colours, aromas, and flavours, while catering to guests’ individual dietary preferences and requirements. A few traditional favourites include the signature Tomato Lamb Bredie, Oxtail Potjie, Crumbed Pap Balls, Milk Tarts (custard-filled pastries), and famous Malva Pudding with a rooibos crème anglaise. With no set menu, Cheetah Plains is constantly evolving each course to satisfy the most discerning of palates and diversity of travellers.
For wine connoisseurs, the wine collection at Cheetah Plains serves personal and small- group tastings from a local collection of over 200 bottles and labels. Wines, whiskeys, and spirits including South African gins of the most exceptional quality are kept in the villa's private temperature-controlled wine gallery.
Guests can couple their wine, whiskey, or gin tasting, paired by lodge Sommelier, Mariska Witbooi with a private dinner in their villa, outside in the indigenous gardens, or in the boma.
The safari villas can also specifically cater to Kosher Jewish guests and Halaal clients with options available that suit individual requirements.
WELLNESS ON SAFARI
In the heart of the wild, each villa boasts not only the marvel of an outdoor pool, seamlessly merging with the natural world, but also the privilege of a trained personal masseuse dedicated to touch and beauty therapy. Guests can indulge in a world where opulent relaxation meets untamed beauty as multiple tailored treatments are available to guests within the sanctuary of their private suite. Whether guests seek revitalizing massages or bespoke beauty rituals, every desire for pampering and self-care is met with skill and devotion. The experience is further enhanced by the immersive charm of the surrounding environment of the wild, where the setting becomes an integral part of the wellness journey.
Sporting beautiful views out over the indigenous Tamboti grove, there is also a climate-controlled gym fitted with a variety of high-quality, professional fitness equipment, providing guests with a tranquil environment for a range of exercise. Ideal for one to find solace and renewal amidst the breathtaking natural scenery.
CHEETAH PLAINS TO LAUNCH PRIVATE ART GALLERY AND DEBUT NEW ART COLLECTION
Innovating the safari experience while celebrating Africa’s prominent contemporary artists, Cheetah Plains will launch a private art gallery and debut a new collection of contemporary art in partnership with Goodman Gallery in January 2024. Leading the curation and installation, Goodman Gallery is an international contemporary art gallery with locations in Johannesburg, Cape Town, London, and New York, participating in Art Basel for over 40 years. This collaboration provides guests with the exclusive opportunity to acquire artwork on display or speak with experts to consider a wider range of works from leading African and international artists available for purchase with glove delivery service.
The Cheetah Plains Art Gallery will house rotating exhibitions to showcase both pre-emi- nent and emerging contemporary artists changing the narrative of Africa through their own stories. Guests will now have the exclusive opportunity to embark on a private art tour of the curated pieces in their private villas and a walking tour of the bespoke Art Collection found throughout Cheetah Plains.
A rotating presentation of new and historically significant work from the 70s to the present is hung across all three villas and is a collection of hanging art, mixed media, sculptures, and freestanding pieces.
Significant South African artists from the late 20th century are on view, including David Koloane and Sam Nhlengethwa who reflect on city life in Johannesburg. Emerging and rising international voices such as ruby onyinyechi amanze, Misheck Masamvu and Marsi van de Heuvel are also on show. The flora and fauna of the area are reflected in the art, offering a direct connection to wildlife and an intimate reading of the symbolic use of elements from the natural world. This can be seen in work by William Kentridge, South Africa’s most globally recognisable artist, as well as Walter Oltmann and David Goldblatt’s thematic explorations consider identity politics, colonial and postcolonial histories, and landscapes as both beautiful and witnesses to human intervention.
DIAMOND BUYING IN THE BUSH
As one of the world’s most remote private showrooms for diamonds, Cheetah Plains has created a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with access to top-quality ethical diamonds, as well as their very own Signature Diamond Collection, created by Shari van Niekerk. As is the experience in the wild, her collection is bold, delicate, and evokes the extraordinary, featuring neckpieces, bangles, bracelets, and earrings specially manufactured for Cheetah Plains.
Guests have the opportunity to indulge in a one-on-one consultation with a South African qualified New York GIA gemologist and jewellery designer. The diamonds selected are part of a special collection of uniquely cut and GIA-certified loose stones, which are designed into custom pieces for international delivery.
GETTING TO CHEETAH PLAINS
Cheetah Plains is conveniently accessible by a 1.5-hour flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport on a commercial or private charter with a 20-minute private vehicle transfer from the Arathusa airstrip to your villa. Daily scheduled flights are available on Federal Air from Johannesburg to Arathusa and on Airlink from Johannesburg and Cape Town to KMIA and Skukuza. Charter airplanes can be arranged by Cheetah Plains to Arathusa, or helicopter transfers directly to its private helipad.
CHEETAH PLAINS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
SABI SAND NATURE RESERVE, 1363 TEL: +27 79 694 8430
CHEETAH PLAINS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
SABI SAND NATURE RESERVE, 1363 TEL: +27 79 694 8430
MOUNT NELSON
AN ODE TO LUXURY IN THE HEART OF CAPE TOWN
Majestically nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, the Mount Nelson Hotel stands as a timeless monument of luxury in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa. Since its opening in 1899, this iconic establishment has continued to embody elegance and sophistication, providing its visitors with an unparalleled experience.
AN ELEGANT HISTORY
The Mount Nelson Hotel, affectionately nicknamed 'The Nellie,' captivates from the moment of arrival with its graceful architecture that blends old-world charm with modern touches. The history of this hotel traces back to a time when travel was synonymous with adventure and discovery, and the Mount Nelson has managed to preserve that essence while adapting its facilities to contemporary comfort.
EXCEPTIONAL ROOMS AND SUITES
Luxury is the guiding thread weaving through every detail of the rooms and suites at the Mount Nelson. The sumptuous interiors are meticulously adorned with antique furniture, opulent fabrics, and tastefully selected artworks. Each room provides breathtaking views of the hotel's lush gardens, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere for guests.
EXQUISITE GASTRONOMY
The most discerning palates will find delight among the culinary offerings at the Mount Nelson. Whether in the intimacy of the Lord Nelson Restaurant, where refined cuisine is complemented by an exceptional wine cellar, or while sipping expertly crafted cocktails at the Planet Bar, the hotel's culinary experience is a celebration of world-class gastronomy.
A SANCTUARY OF WELL-BEING
The luxurious Spa at Mount Nelson offers an unparalleled sensory escape. Guests can relax and rejuvenate with exclusive treatments, soothing massages, and top-notch wellness facilities. The Spa, infused with a serene atmosphere, becomes a haven of relaxation where time seems to stand still.
CITY OASIS: EDEN GARDENS
The opulence of the Mount Nelson Hotel extends into its expansive gardens. Stretching lawns, colorful flower beds, and shaded pathways create an oasis in the heart of the city. Guests can stroll through these enchanted gardens, stepping away from the urban hustle to immerse themselves in a world of tranquility and beauty.
A GATEWAY TO EXPLORATION
In addition to its sumptuous ambiance, the Mount Nelson Hotel offers a privileged location for exploring the wonders of Cape Town. Whether it's ascending Table Mountain, exploring local markets, or escaping to sandy beaches, every adventure is within reach.
The Mount Nelson Hotel, with its harmonious blend of timeless luxury and modern amenities, remains a beacon of refinement in Cape Town. Each stay is more than just a hotel experience; it is a journey into elegance, a celebration of superior comfort, and an immersion in the captivating history of this legendary establishment.
For those seeking a getaway where luxury reaches new heights, the Mount Nelson Hotel remains an incomparable destination, setting the standards of refinement at every turn.
MOUNT NELSON A BELMOND HOTEL
76 ORANGE STREET, GARDENS, CAPE TOWN, 8001 SOUTH AFRICA RÉSERVATIONS · 0800 905 653 WWW.BELMOND.COM
SINGITA SABI SAND
DISCOVERING WILD LUXURY AT SINGITA SABI SAND IN SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa, with its vast wild plains and diverse wildlife, offers a unique safari experience in the world. At the heart of this natural wonder lies the private reserve of Singita Sabi Sand, a hidden gem that combines the elegance of grand luxury with the raw essence of nature.
A LUXURY JEWEL IN THE HEART OF NATURE
Located in the Kruger National Park region, Singita Sabi Sand stands out with its sumptuous lodges nestled amidst lush vegetation.
Each lodge is designed to provide unparalleled comfort while seamlessly blending into the surrounding landscape.
Spacious suites offer breathtaking views of the savannah, allowing visitors to wake up to the whisper of the wind and the distant roar of lions.
SAFARI, AN INTIMATE AND EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
What sets Singita Sabi Sand apart is a commitment to intimacy and exclusivity. Safaris are conducted in small groups, ensuring a more personal experience and the opportunity to explore the most remote corners of the reserve. Experienced guides share their knowledge of wildlife and flora, providing unique insights into the wilderness.
ACCOMMODATION, A SYMBOL OF REFINEMENT
The lodges of Singita Sabi Sand embody the pinnacle of refinement. The interiors are meticulously decorated with high-quality local materials, creating a warm and ele- gant ambiance.
Visitors can relax in private pools, savor gourmet meals prepared by renowned chefs, and indulge in luxury after an exciting day of safari.
CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Beyond luxury, Singita Sabi Sand is deeply committed to conservation and sustainability. The reserve plays a crucial role in preserving local wildlife and flora, contributing to the protection of endangered species and the conservation of fragile ecosystems.
AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE
Singita Sabi Sand offers much more than just a luxury safari. It is a complete immersion into the wild, combining absolute comfort with the discovery of African wildlife.
Every moment at Singita Sabi Sand is an unforgettable experience, where luxury meets wildlife in a perfect dance under the South African starlit sky.
SINGITA SABI SAND NATURE RESERVE TEL: +27 (0) 21 683 3424 WWW.SINGITA.COM
THE SAXON HOTEL VILLAS AND SPA
TEMPLE OF LUXURY AND ELEGANCE
In the exclusive Sandhurst neighborhood of Johannesburg, the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa stands out as a jewel of luxury hospitality in South Africa. This prestigious establishment combines timeless elegance with world-class services, providing an unforgettable experience for discerning travelers from around the globe. Nelson Mandela stayed there on numerous occasions
THE ELEGANCE OF LUXURY VILLAS
The villas at the Saxon Hotel embody the epitome of luxury. Infused with a serene and refined atmosphere, these private residences offer an exclusive sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Guests are welcomed into sumptuous surroundings where every detail has been carefully considered to ensure absolute comfort.
The spacious villas at the Saxon showcase elegant interior designs, highlighting premium materials and exquisite artworks. The Presidential Suite Villa, spanning over 200 square meters, is a preferred choice. Expansive windows allow natural light to bathe the spaces, creating a warm and soothing ambiance. Guests can enjoy complete privacy in their own private gardens, featuring luxurious pools and well-appointed terraces, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
THE NELSON MANDELA PLATINUM PRESIDENTIAL SUITE: AN UNPARALLELED EXPERIENCE
At the pinnacle of Saxon's accommodation offerings is the 400-square-meter Nelson Man- dela Platinum Presidential Suite, a symbol of opulence and sophistication. This lavish suite provides an exceptional residential space, featuring spacious lounges, an elegant dining area, and sumptuous bedrooms. The interiors are adorned with unique pieces, creating an atmosphere of refinement and understated luxury.
The Nelson Mandela Platinum Presidential Suite also features a fully equipped kitchen and dedicated butler service, ensuring that every guest's need is not only anticipated but exceeded. The panoramic windows provide breathtaking views of the hotel's lush gardens, creating an unparalleled visual experience.
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICES AND FACILITIES
In addition to its exceptional accommodation offerings, the Saxon Hotel provides a range of services and facilities that perfectly complement the guest experience. The hotel's award-winning restaurants, such as Qunu, celebrate local and international cuisine with a gourmet touch. The world-class spa offers relaxing and revitalizing treatments in a serene setting.
The elegant meeting spaces and well-manicured gardens make the Saxon a premier venue for private and professional events. The commitment to exceptional service is reflected in every interaction, creating an unparalleled customer experience.
The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa in Johannesburg positions itself as a sanctuary of luxury, where refinement meets tranquility.
With its sumptuous luxury villas and unparalleled Presidential Suite, the establishment offers an incomparable experience for travelers seeking elegance and sophistication.
For those looking for more than just accommodation, the Saxon transcends expectations, creating lasting memories in a setting of timeless beauty.
THE SAXON HOTEL VILLAS AND SPA
36 SAXON RD, SANDHURST, JOHANNESBURG, 2196, SOUTH AFRICA RÉSERVATIONS · +27 87 375 7777 WWW.SAXON.CO.ZA
THE LEGENDARY HOTELS
THE SAXON HOTEL, VILLAS & SPA JOHANNESBURG
36 SAXON RD, SANDHURST, JOHANNESBURG 2196 TEL: +27 87 375 7777 WWW.SAXON.CO.ZA
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL THE WESTCLIFF, JOHANNESBURG
67 JAN SMUTS AVE, WESTCLIFF, JOHANNESBURG, 2132, TEL: +27 11 481 6000 WWW.FOURSEASONS.COM/JOHANNESBURG
ELLERMAN HOUSE
180 KLOOF RD, BANTRY BAY, CAPE TOWN, 8005 TEL: +27 21 430 3200 WWW.ELLERMAN.CO.ZA/EN
THE OYSTER BOX HOTEL :
2 LIGHTHOUSE RD, UMHLANGA, UMHLANGA, 4319 TEL: +27 31 514 5000
MOUNT NELSON HOTEL
76 ORANGE ST, GARDENS, CAPE TOWN, 8001 TEL: +27 21 483 1000
LA RESIDENCE
ELANDSKLOOF ROAD, FRANSCHHOEK, 7690 TEL: +27 21 876 4100
WWW.THEROYALPORTFOLIO.COM/LA-RESIDENCE
CHEETAH PLAINS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
SABI SAND NATURE RESERVE, 1363 TEL: +27 79 694 8430
LONDOLOZI GAME RESERVE
LONDOLOZI GAME RESERVE SPARTA FARMS, SKUKUZA, 1350 TEL: +27 13 735 5653
JABULANI
KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, 1380 TEL: +27 82 922 0120 WWW.JABULANISAFARI.COM
JAMALA MADIKWE LODGE
MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, 2874 TEL: +27 82 927 3129 WWW.JAMALAMADIKWE.COM
SINGITA SWENI LODGE
SWENI RIVER, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, MPUMALANGA, KRUGER PARK, 1350 TEL: +27 21 683 3424 WWW.SINGITA.COM/LODGE
TSWALU KALAHARI
TEL: +27 53 781 9331
FERME KORANNABERG 296, VAN ZYLSRUS, 8467 WWW.TSWALU.COM
