Tailor-made Tailor-made safaris safarisand and holidays holidays to toAfrica Africa
Welcome to Farside Africa At Farside Africa we don’t believe an authentic holiday in Africa can be packaged, and we tailor-make every itinerary. Through talking to you and our knowledge of the countries and the lodges, nurtured over many years of working and travelling in Africa, we can organise a holiday that includes the elements that you are looking for in places we believe offer you a genuine and unforgettable African experience. In this brochure you’ll find some of the highlights of the countries we specialise in as well as a selection of our favourite camps, lodges and experiences in this wonderful continent. Africa is best known for its exceptional wildlife and excellent lodges and camps, but there is much more to it and many ways to view it other than from a safari vehicle. Why not try a horseback safari or trekking with camels? Or what about seeing deserts and plains from on high from a hot air balloon or paddling down rivers in a canoe among hippos and crocodiles? You can climb some of the world’s highest peaks and dive with great white sharks or relax on palm-fringed Indian Ocean beaches with turquoise waters lapping your toes. The coast also boasts magnificent snorkelling and diving over pristine reefs, exciting deep sea fishing and delicious seafood. It’s sometimes difficult to know where to start but this is where Farside Africa comes in. We offer you independent, honest advice and will give you various ideas to choose from, amending your itinerary until we have your ideal holiday. We hope you enjoy looking at the brochure and are inspired by some of these very special destinations. Please don’t hesitate to contact us to start planning your ultimate holiday! Vicky Stirling Director
2 A l b e r t Nil e
Kidepo Valley NP
Samburu NR
Vi ia cto r Nile
Fort Portal
LIBREVILLE
São Tomé and Príncipe
Kenya
Uganda
Equatorial Guinea
Lopé NP
Ivindo NP
Rwanda Democratic Republic of the Congo
Loango NP
Republic of the Congo
Atlantic Ocean
PNV Parc National Volcanes
Masai Mara NR
Lake V i c t or i a
Serengeti NP
NAIROBI Tsavo East NP
Amboseli NP
Arusha
Lake Manyara NP Tarangire NP
Kigoma
Meru NP
Mt. Kenya
Ngorongoro Crater
Burundi Gombe Stream NP
Nanyuki
KAMPALA
Queen Elizabeth NP
Bwindi Impenetrable NP
Gabon
Lake Tu r k a n a
Tanzania
Tsavo West NP
Saadani NP
Mahale Mountains NP
DODOMA
Katavi NP
Lamu
Mt. Kilimanjaro Mombasa
Zanzibar Dar es Salaam
Ruaha NP Lake Ta n g a n y i k a
ngw
a
Selous GR
Nyika Plateau
Lua
Lake Bangweulu
Vwaza Marsh
Lake Malawi
North Luangwa NP
Angola
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Pemba LILONGWE
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L ufu p
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La ke Ka riba
10000 Kilometers
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Matusadona NP
Caprivi HARARE Victoria Falls Strip Rundu Chobe Okavango NP Etosha NP Hwange NP Delta Moremi Nxai Bulawayo Pan NP Maun Waterberg Matobo NP Makgadikgadi Plateau Park Pans GR
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Mt. Mulanje
ilha de Moçambique
Mozambique
Zimbabwe
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Skeleton Coast NP
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Livingstone
500 Miles 500
L a k e C a h or a B amsb s a
Mana Pools NP
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Kafue
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Serra Cafema 250
Malawi
Lower Zambezi NP
LUSAKA
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Place Name
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Busanga Plains Kafue NP
CAPITAL CITY Game Reserve (GR) National Park (NP) National Reserve (NR)
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Liuwa Plain NP
Country
Niassa GR
Mfuwe
South Luangwa NP
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Zambia
Likoma Island
Gorongosa NP
Madagascar
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Beira
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Omaruru
Central Kalahari GR
Namibia
Botswana
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Lesotho
Drakensburg Mountains
Durban W
Winelands Garden Route
CAPE TOWN Plettenberg Bay
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South Africa
DESTINATION MAP
Inhambane
MAPUTO
Swaziland
Fish River Canyon
AFRICA
Kruger NP
Wa terb e r g
Madikwe GR GABARONE Kgalagadi Transfrontier PRETORIA Park Johannesburg
Lüderitz
Bazaruto Archipelago
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Namib-Naukluft NP
Sossusvlei
Vilanculos
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WINDHOEK
Francistown Li
Swakopmund
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Brandberg Mountain
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East London Port Elizabeth
Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park
Indian Ocean
12 Wildlife Experiences 12
BIRDS OF AFRICA
13
BEHIND THE LENS
14
CONSERVATION
17 PRIMATES
Contents
Seychelles
18
THE GREAT MIGRATION
20 Connecting with Africa 22
CULTURAL CHIC
24
LEADING SAFARI GUIDES
26
COMMUNITY
28 Safaris 28
MOBILE EXPEDITIONS
30
SAFARIS BY HORSE
32
SAFARIS BY WATER
36
WALKING
37
RAIL JOURNEYS
38
SAFARI CHIC
40 Landscapes 40
COASTS AND LAKES
42
DESERT AND DUNES
43
MAJESTIC VICTORIA FALLS
46
OKAVANGO DELTA
50
SPECTACULAR VIEWS
51
STAR GAZING
52 Indulgence 52
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
54
GOURMET FOOD AND WINE
56
OLD COLONIAL CHARM
58
ROMANCE
60
SPA AND WELLNESS
62
NAIROBI LUXE
64
LUXURY LODGES
66 Escape 66
BAREFOOT CHIC
70 FAMILY 72
COASTAL RETREAT
74
ISLAND PARADISE
76
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
78
MALARIA-FREE
80 Lifestyle 80
STYLE, DESIGN AND INTERIORS
84
BUSH CAMP
86
TRADITIONAL SAFARI CAMPS
88
LUXURY TENTED CAMP
90
UNDER CANVAS
92
COSMOPOLITAN CHIC
94
PRIVATE LODGES
CONTENTS
AFRICA
4 Highlights
Kenya Kenya is home of the original safari, and, teeming with game, is still deservedly Africa’s most popular wildlife destination. The Masai Mara is famous for its big cats and the annual migration across the Masai Mara is one of the highlights of the natural year, when thousands of wildebeest and zebra move across the plains to find fresh grass, closely pursued by their predators. Kenya’s other national parks and reserves offer a variety of wonderful wildlife and wilderness experiences a little more off the beaten track: Amboseli and Samburu are famous for their elephants, while the former farmlands of the Great Rift Valley and Laikipia combine game viewing with outdoor activities such as mountain biking, river rafting, camel safaris and multi-day trekking in stunning landscapes. For relaxation, the magnificent Indian Ocean boasts beautiful white sandy beaches and marine reserves where the pace slows to that of the Swahili fishermen. As well as peace and seclusion, you can enjoy the simple pleasures of snorkelling, swimming with dolphins, deep sea fishing and walks around Lamu Town.
Highlights
Tanzania The game viewing in Tanzania is unparalleled, with some of the continent’s most famous game parks and plenty of big cats. Like Kenya, the high point of the year is the spectacular annual migration of wildebeest and zebra as they cross the plains and rivers of the Serengeti. You can combine the Serengeti with the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater and the smaller parks of Lake Manyara and Tarangire for a stunning northern safari. Or head south to the wilder and more untouched parks of the Selous, Ruaha and Katavi where you can swap the vehicle for a bush walk or boat trip. Tanzania also has mountains to climb, including the famous Mt Kilimanjaro, chimps to track and idyllic white sandy beaches with pristine coral reefs off both the coast and the spice islands of Pemba, Zanzibar and Mafia.
AFRICA
KENYA & TANZANIA
• Watching the sun rise as you reach the top of Mt Kilimanjaro • Chimp tracking in the morning, swimming in Lake Tanganyika in the afternoon • Seeing the predators in action, which is especially exciting during the Migration • Snorkelling and diving off the Spice Islands and swimming with whale sharks • The Stone Town spice and town tours which bring the history of Zanzibar to life
We Say • Tanzania is an ideal destination for combining a safari and beach holiday • Visit the Serengeti in February to see the wildebeest calving • You can enjoy very good low season prices from November to March • The Western parks of Katavi and Mahale are under-visited and well worth the journey • Include a few days at Saadani, East Africa’s only coastal national park, for water and land safaris
• Watching hundreds of zebra and wildebeest take on the treacherous river crossings during the Migration • Sleeping out on star beds on the Laikipia Plateau • The impressive community conservation projects and the colourful Masai and Samburu cultures • Unwinding at idyllic island retreats • Seeing herds of elephant against the impressive backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro
We Say • For first-timers, the Masai Mara is a must, but it is busy at peak times. To avoid the crowds you can stay in one of the private concessions adjoining the park where you can also go on walking safaris and night drives • The smaller national parks and private reserves tend to be quieter and offer a different experience • The Laikipia Plateau is a wonderful place for family safaris, especially with young children, where they can learn bush skills, swim in rivers and visit the local communities
5 Highlights
Zambia Zambia pioneered the walking safari. To be precise, Norman Carr was the man and South Luangwa was the place, and today it remains the quintessential African walking safari. There is no greater sense of excitement than creeping past a herd of buffalo, a pride of dozing lion or glimpsing an elusive leopard when you are on foot. However, there is much more to Zambia than just walking safaris. You can enjoy game drives in a number of different parks, canoe down the Zambezi River and visit the mighty Victoria Falls which offer a variety of adrenalin-pumping activities. Zambia is also home to some exceptional lodges, many of which are owner-run, making each destination special, and the guiding is some of the best in Africa.
• Canoeing among the hippos on the Zambezi River and camping out at night • A microlight flight over the thundering Victoria Falls • Walking from bush camp to bush camp in the South Luangwa and seeing the animals from a different perspective • Tiger fishing on the Zambezi • Specialist safaris to lesser known parks such as Liuwa Plain and the Bangweulu Wetlands
We Say • Zambia is ideal for those who want to get out of a vehicle and really experience the bush and its creatures great and small • Walking safaris are not as strenuous as they sound and can be combined with game drives • A safari in Zambia combines well with relaxation on Lake Malawi • Zambia has wonderful exclusive-use safari houses, ideal for family holidays • Visit between August and November for Carmine beeeaters and between June and October for wild dogs
Highlights
Malawi
• • • • •
Diving a freshwater lake at altitude Walking into Likoma Island’s St Peter’s Cathedral Hiking on Nyika Plateau, heaven for botanists and nature lovers Summiting Mount Mulanje The colourful markets selling some of Africa’s best wood carvings
Known as the warm heart of Africa, Malawi is dominated by the 300-mile long Lake Malawi which is the main draw for most people. With sweeping white sandy beaches and the world’s largest number of freshwater fish, it is the place to come for some great snorkelling and high altitude diving as well as sailing, kayaking and water-skiing. There are some lovely lodges, as well as fascinating islands such as Likoma, which has an impressive cathedral, the size of Winchester Cathedral, built in the early 1900s. However, the country offers so much more with its mountains, tea plantations and game reserves. You can climb Mount Mulanje, hike around the Nyika Plateau and Malawi’s national parks offer a wonderful wilderness experience and excellent birding.
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.farsideafrica.com
We Say • The more intrepid can self-drive around Malawi • Travel on the local Ilala ferry across the lake and experience a bit of local daily life • Malawi is excellent for a varied active holiday with multi-day cycling trips, mountains to climb, overnight sailing charters and all the watersports on the lake • Malawi combines well with a safari in Zambia
ZAMBIA & MALAWI
AFRICA
6 Highlights
Botswana Botswana is a land of contrasts with the vast Kalahari Desert and salt pans of the Makgadikgadi combining with the rich oasis of the Okavango Delta with its waterways, lagoons and papyrus swamps. Dotted with islands, the Delta teems with a huge variety of birds and wildlife, which can be seen from a 4x4, on foot or from a mokoro canoe. A visit to the Makgadikgadi Pans offers wonderful bushman encounters, as well as meerkat safaris, quad-biking across the pans and sleeping out under the stars. When the pans fill with water during the rains, you can also enjoy the pans’ own migration of wildebeest and zebra. Botswana has excellent multi-day horse-riding safaris, or you can enjoy the unique opportunity of walking with elephants. The country’s ethos of ‘high cost - low impact’ tourism means there are fewer people and it is one of the best safari destinations in terms of variety of wildlife and birdlife as well as the diversity of the environments and the quality of the camps and the guiding.
Highlights
Namibia
• • • • •
The overwhelming sense of space, space and more space Hot air ballooning over the Sossusvlei sand dunes Tracking desert-adapted rhino and elephants Cantering across the Namib desert on a horse-riding safari Encounters with the Herero and Himba tribes
Namibia is a different type of safari destination, and not only because it boasts spectacular desert-adapted wildlife. Climb to the top of some of the world’s highest sand dunes or explore the wild Skeleton Coast dotted with shipwrecks and whale bones and home only to birds, seals and the odd scavenging jackal. See some of Africa’s last truly wild black rhino, which you can track on foot. You can fly around the country in luxury or explore the enormity of this fragile desert country on a self-drive or guided tour. Venture to the lush oasis of the Caprivi Strip in the pan handle of north-east Namibia, sandwiched between Botswana, Angola and Zambia, which is home to excellent lodges and tiger fishing or kayak down the Orange River in the South, meet the fascinating Himba and Herero tribes and get up close to the big cats at the Africat Foundation.
AFRICA
BOTSWANA & NAMIBIA
We Say • Combine self-driving with internal flights to some of the more remote regions, which gives you a good combination of exploring at your own pace and seeing this amazing country from the air. It also keeps the price down • It can be hot and you may see some rain but prices drop considerably in the low season (December-March) • Tiger fishing on the Zambezi River is best in May and June • There are lots of activities for the kids around Swakopmund, including dune boarding, quad biking, sky diving, surfing, boat trips and fishing
• Drifting silently along the waterways of the Okavango Delta in a mokoro • Experiencing the bushman culture on an authentic bushman safari • Quad-biking over the Makgadikgadi Pans and sleeping out under the stars • Cantering through the Delta on horseback • The incredible wild dog sightings between June and September
We Say • Prices are high in Botswana but if you travel in the ‘secret season’, from November-June you can enjoy it at a much lower price and with fewer people • January-June is an excellent time for birding, and the prices are substantially lower • A Botswana safari combines well with a few of nights at the Victoria Falls
7 Highlights
Mozambique Mozambique is a melting pot of African, Portuguese and Arab influences. Its main draw is its glorious beaches and archipelagos. The more remote northern coast, with the beautiful and unexplored islands and reefs of the Quirimbas Archipelago, is particularly excellent for diving and snorkelling, while the southern coast is more easily accessible and has plenty to offer for both relaxation and activity on and under water. Inland, the wildlife is slowly building up in the reserves after the civil war and there are a handful of very well-run camps in Gorongosa National Park and Niassa National Reserve where you can appreciate the wilderness in all its unspoilt glory. Remnants of the country’s history can be found on Ibo Island and Ilha de Moçambique, which are well worth visiting, and easy to combine with a beach holiday. Mozambique’s tourism industry is very aware of its responsibility to the local people and most lodges are involved in community-based projects which are partly funded by your stay there.
• • • •
Snorkelling and diving amongst the abundant marine life amping wild in Gorongosa National Park C Staying on exclusive private islands Buying jewellery from the local silversmiths on Ibo Island, and absorbing the charm of its history and its people • Indulging in decadent fresh seafood
We Say • Mozambique combines well with a safari in any of the East and Southern African countries. It takes a bit of time to get to but it is definitely worth the journey when you get there • Mozambique also has a shore of Lake Malawi, where there is an excellent thriving community lodge with beach, walking and camping holidays • Wildlife safaris in Mozambique are a wilderness experience totally off the beaten track • You can explore the coastline on a simple multi-day dhow safari, camping on beaches, snorkelling and kayaking
Highlights
South Africa South Africa is a wonderful mix of Africa and Europe, of scenery, of people and activities, offering something for everyone and a great introduction to the continent. It is an enormous and diverse country with mountains, savannahs and deserts, while the combination of sub-tropical waters and colder Atlantic waters provide a rich diversity of marine wildlife, in particular a spectacular migration of sardines which is followed by predatory sharks, dolphins and whales. With excellent roads it is perfect for a self-drive holiday, with the Winelands and the Garden Route to explore and Kwazulu-Natal, the Drakensberg Mountains, the Wild Coast and Swaziland to discover. There are a multitude of national parks and private reserves teeming with game, including the best known of them all, the Kruger National Park.
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.farsideafrica.com
• Indulging in world-class food and wine at very reasonable prices • The incomparable Big Five sightings, especially of the elusive leopard • Walking among the spring flowers in September • Hearing the history of the battlefields brought to life by excellent guides • Seeing whales (July-November) and turtles hatching on the beach (November-March)
We Say • South Africa is great for safari with young children with malaria-free reserves and lodges offering specific kiddie programmes that bring the bush to life, as well as babysitting services and early meal times • For wildlife lovers you can see humpback whales, great white sharks and the Big Five all in one day • The north-east coast has a warmer climate and is pleasant all year around. The sea is generally cold off the south coast at all times of year! • You can explore the Cape on a self-drive holiday and then fly to Kruger for big game viewing
MOZAMBIQUE & SOUTH AFRICA
AFRICA
8 Highlights
Uganda & Rwanda Uganda’s primary attraction is its primates and, with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is the only place in the world to track mountain gorillas and one of the best to find chimpanzees. But there is so much more: it’s a lush and beautiful country with mist-swathed volcanoes, crater lakes, over 1000 bird species and some of the friendliest people you will meet in Africa. Game numbers are growing strongly in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks and they are well worth a visit. Rwanda, like Uganda, has sensational landscapes. Made famous by Diane Fossey in Gorillas in the Mist, most people come to see the gorillas but it’s worth spending a few extra days experiencing its rich biodiversity, birdlife and landscapes. The country’s tragic recent history is luckily well in the past, and the people here are some of the most friendly and inspirational you’ll meet in Africa.
Highlights
Morocco With 12 months of sunshine, one of the richest cultures in Africa and fabulous shopping, Morocco is the perfect destination for three days or three weeks. In a weekend, you can enjoy the extremes of shopping in a busy souk to relaxing in the mountains with long walks and a good book, and on a longer holiday you can tour the imperial cities, camp out in the desert, visit ancient ruins and mosques and relax on the dramatic Atlantic coast with its sweeping beaches. Whether you stay in the luxury of old palaces, kasbahs and riads or more humble abodes in simple Berber houses or tents, you will be seduced by the charm and mystery of Morocco. Best of all, it’s just a three-hour flight from the UK and increasingly accessible with the advent of cheap flights into its major cities.
AFRICA
UGANDA, RWANDA & MOROCCO
• Luxuriating in hip, stylish riads • Trekking in the Atlas Mountains and encountering the Berber culture and villages • Negotiating a deal in the colourful souks • Camping out in the Sahara and watching the desert sunsets • A visit to the roman ruins at Voublis
We Say • With cheap flights from the UK and reasonably-priced accommodation, Morocco is a great treat for a long weekend • Morocco is a year-round destination with a very pleasant climate. In the hot months of July and August you can head to the coast or into the Atlas Mountains which have similar weather to the Alps • In Essaouira, visit the fish stalls where you can choose from an array of freshly caught fish, watch it grilled in front of you- delicious!
• Seeing the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha • The incredible up close encounters with the mountain gorillas and chimpanzees • The birding and, in particular, sightings of the rare shoebill storks • A scenic boat trip to the mighty Murchison Falls • Nile Perch fishing on Lake Victoria
We Say • Uganda is still developing as a tourist destination with new luxury lodges opening and game numbers rising fast, so it’s definitely worth visiting before the rest of the world • Book well in advance for gorilla tracking as permits are limited and go quickly • You can easily combine gorilla tracking in Uganda and Rwanda • Although Rwanda’s recent genocide is difficult to comprehend, it is well worth seeing the genocide memorial, and hearing the stories of the people who lived through it
9 Highlights
São Tomé & Príncipe
• S cuba diving through volcanic rock arches • Wandering along the long, deserted beaches • Visiting cocoa plantations and learning about the history and culture of the islands • Getting up early to see the fishermen bringing in their catch • The indigenous flora and fauna and the Botanical Gardens
You will not get a more accurate description of ‘unspoilt’ and ‘off the beaten track’ than the small islands of São Tomé and Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea off the West African coast. The islands, which are on the equator, have a tantalising mix of tropical jungles, deserted beaches, volcanoes and volcanic plugs, cocoa plantations and breathtaking scenery. The flora and fauna are extremely varied with exotic birds, trees and flowers including many endemics. There is also the faded grandeur of the old Portuguese towns and plantation estates, many of which seem to be being reclaimed by the jungle. There are a handful of luxury beach hotels and authentic plantation houses to stay in, and for the adventurous, there’s walking and camping in the interior.
We Say • Like any special destination, it’s not that easy to get to but worth the journey • It is a great place for total beach relaxation away from the crowds • Explore the islands by bike to see it from a different perspective • São Tomé is on the equator so it is always quite hot and humid
Highlights
Gabon Gabon is a relatively new safari destination, an undiscovered wilderness of pristine rainforests, open savannah and miles of deserted beaches in equatorial West Africa. See the weird and the wonderful: surfing hippos, red river hogs, mandrills, lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, long-snouted crocodiles and ancient forests. The wild Atlantic coast is equally exciting with breaching whales, nesting turtles and also some great fishing. Conservation and tourism go handin-hand here and you can visit the projects and mingle with researchers and conservationists in the lodges and camps. The game isn’t as easy to see as in East and Southern Africa but it’s a beautiful country and as yet under-discovered so get there before everyone else does.
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.farsideafrica.com
• Watching elephants on the beach • Seeing the huge diversity of extraordinary wildlife including whales, primates and turtles • Meeting the conservationists and seeing their projects first-hand • Tracking the western lowland gorillas • Walking through the pristine rainforest
We Say • Gabon is off the beaten track and a unique and wonderful experience but it won’t appeal to everyone and is probably better suited to those who have travelled in Africa before • Wildlife viewing in Gabon combines well with a cultural and beach holiday on São Tomé and Príncipe • Travelling around Gabon can be tricky but a stay at Loango Lodge gives you a good cross-section of the wilderness and wildlife on offer in the country
SÃO TOMÉ, PRÍNCIPE & GABON
AFRICA
10 Highlights
Madagascar
• Watching lemurs: you won’t find them anywhere else in the world • Relaxing on beautiful, undeveloped beaches with turquoise waters lapping your toes • The unique biodiversity and abundance of birds, animals, plants and insects • Enjoying the Malagasy culture and community projects • Seeing the baobab trees and Tsingy rock formations
Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island and has a unique eco system with a profusion of flora and fauna, 80% of which is found nowhere else in the world. The national parks are teeming with lemurs, rare birds, chameleons, tenrecs, geckos, lizards, butterflies and many weird and wonderful insects and plants. The island is particularly well-known for its dancing lemurs and selfdestructing palms, and it’s an absolute haven for nature lovers and keen zoologists. It has three climatic zones with mountains, semi-deserts and rainforests plus sandy beaches and clear tropical waters dotted with archipelagos of islands linked by coral reefs, and the cultural experience of the 16 Malagasy tribes is as fascinating as the unique country itself.
Seychelles & Mauritius The Seychelles is often described as the Garden of Eden, with dramatic mountains rising from coral sands and shimmering blue waters, stunning flora and fauna, and coral reefs teeming with colourful fish. It really lives up to the hype of the dream holiday destination with blissful private island getaways, fantastic diving, a huge array of water-sports and excellent hotels with impeccable service. It is also a fantastic place for bone fish and deep sea fishing. Mauritius is equally alluring, a beautiful tropical island in the Indian Ocean where African and Asian cultures blend easily with the Creole influence of the colonial years. Although there is plenty to explore on the island, the major draw for most are the luxury hotels and resorts with their spas, golf courses, excellent restaurants and five-star service. The coastline is almost entirely fringed by coral reefs, making it wonderful for diving and
AFRICA
MADAGASCAR, SEYCHELLES & MAURITIUS
snorkelling as well as all the other watersports on offer. Most of the hotels also offer excellent children’s entertainment.
Highlights • Idyllic white sandy beaches and sparkling seas • The exclusive private islands of the Seychelles • The huge array of watersports on offer including deep sea fishing and yacht charters • Shopping for local crafts and designer jewellery in Port Louis on Mauritius • Sailing out to paradise islands and swimming in secluded coves
We Say • Both are excellent honeymoon destinations and combine well with a safari on the African mainland • They are both year-round destinations but monsoons can occur in February • There is a wide range of accommodation in the Seychelles from five-star hotels and private island getaways to boutique hotels and plantation houses • Time your trip to the Seychelles to coincide with visits from the wildlife: whale sharks (Sept-Nov) and turtles (Oct-Jan nesting, Dec-Mar hatching)
We Say • It’s pretty much a year-round destination (except for February when there can be cyclones), but certain areas are at their best at different times of the year • Madagascar combines really well with a Big Five safari in South Africa • There are some great local markets selling arts and crafts such as handmade paper, zebu horn gifts, carvings and textiles
11 Highlights
Oman On the south-east coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a very popular holiday destination for its wonderful mix of beach and culture. It’s easy to see how the romantic fables of Sinbad the Sailor and the Queen of Sheba were inspired by its medieval fortified towns and castles, dramatic rugged mountain scenery - dry and harsh in the north and green and lush in the south – its wadis and desert, and its vast seas. Oman is also home to fascinating wildlife, geology and very friendly locals, and with almost 1700km of coastline stretching along the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Gulf, it has fantastic beaches and excellent scuba diving. You can enjoy a really memorable trip here by combining its contrasting offerings of history, culture, beach and exploration.
• The remote Musandam Peninsula where you can dive, sail and explore • The amazing luxury beachfront hotels and their variety of watersports • Visiting the ancient forts, spectacular mosques and learning about the country’s fascinating history • Camping under the stars in the sand dunes of Wahiba Sands or in the Empty Quarter • Walking through the wadis with their huge rocks and pretty streams
We Say • It’s easy to self-drive or, even better, to explore the country with a private driver-guide to reach its intriguing corners • The best time to visit is from September through to April as it’s too hot in the north from May to August. However, at this time of year there is a light monsoon rain in the south which lowers temperatures and makes the mountains lush and green • A specialised live-aboard dhow diving trip is a wonderful way to experience the country from a different perspective
Highlights • The Cultural Triangle with its temples, stupas and statues • Train journeys through the tea plantations
Sri Lanka
• Seeing the colour and frenzy of one of the traditional festivals • Relaxing on the idyllic white, sandy beaches • Watching leopard as well as other wildlife in the national parks
Sri Lanka is a beautiful island with so much to see and such diversity. It has vibrant cities, amazing history, ruins and temples, and beautiful sculptures and Buddhas carved out of the living rock. Then there is the tea country, offering cool respite in the mountains and plenty of activities from walking and biking to white water rafting and train rides. There are a number of national parks where you can enjoy some great game viewing at the right time of year with leopards, sloth bears and some beautiful birds with many endemic species. The east coast has some lovely beaches and great diving and snorkelling, and there is the friendly city of Galle with its historic fort as well as more white sandy beaches along the south and west coasts. The real beauty of Sri Lanka is you can visit it all so easily as everything is in near proximity, and you can stay in a variety of accommodation from enchanting locally-run guest houses to beautiful luxury hotels.
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.farsideafrica.com
We Say • M ix small, intimate guest houses with the country’s fantastic luxury hotels • Hire a private driver and a car to get the most out of your trip. You learn so much about the people and the country – and it’s madness on the roads for self-driving! • Take the train and have a look around the station – it’s like going back in time • Head for the east coast to avoid the usual tourist trail
OMAN & SRI LANKA
AFRICA
Birds of Africa
12
Ready yourself for one of the world’s best land and air shows. Observe huge saddlebill storks while drifting through the reeds of the Okavango Delta, or marvel at myriad fuchsia-pink flamingos edging Lake Naivasha.
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1. Kwando Kwara 2. Phinda Homestead 3. Kwetsani Camp 4. Eagle Island Camp 5. Chui Lodge
KWANDO KWARA Kwara overlooks a romantic river lagoon in the remote northern part of the Okavango Delta Botswana, accessing both waterways and plains. This private Kwara concession, fronting onto a stunning floodplain, is adjacent to the legendary delta. A magnificent wilderness area offering exceptional bird viewing, it also borders the Moremi Reserve. Eight luxury safari-style tents on raised decks are built within a grove of ancient African ebony trees. Resident hippos serenade guests yearround on the floodplain in front of the camp. Each tent has its own viewing deck, private en-suite facilities, including hot and cold running showers, flush toilets and modern amenities.
KWETSANI CAMP Unplug at remote Kwetsani Camp in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Watch amazing variety of birds on elongated island covered with palm, mangosteen and fig trees. Luxuriate at this intimate camp composed of five beautifully furnished ‘tree-house’ chalets, each with private facilities and artisan décor. Feel blissful effects of airy thatch, wood, glass and canvas. Enjoy the elevated perch with astounding views of local wildlife and minimal eco footprint. Savour delicious food and wine under a thatched roof. Ride traditional mokoro or experience thrilling game drives. Authentic family atmosphere exudes total relaxation ethic.
PHINDA HOMESTEAD
EAGLE ISLAND CAMP
An exclusive sole-use safari villa set in the big-five wilderness of andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa. Large sliding doors in four luxurious suites allow breathtaking vistas of the vast landscape below, as pampered guests marvel.
Feel your heart race at the sight of enchanted Okavango Delta, Botswana from Eagle Island Camp. Watch dizzying birdlife, or delight as hippos, elephants, or lions present themselves. Travel by boat or walking tours, or fly across this spectacular wilderness in a helicopter flight to be remembered forever. Relax in the hammock or easy chair of your private deck in classic 'Hemingway' styled tents-onstilts. Photograph impressive birds and game of the lagoon.
Loving personal touches of the Homestead’s dedicated staff, including a private ranger, tracker, butler and chef, bring renowned African hospitality to life. Private use of open 4x4 safari vehicle allows you to set your own game drive times, while an interactive kitchen caters for informal yet delicious dining. A rim-flow pool on multi-level viewing decks shows off dramatic birding and bigfive wildlife sights daily.
CHUI LODGE Delight your senses at award-winning Chui Lodge, tucked away inside Oserian Wildlife Sanctuary. Above the shore of Lake Naivasha, in the magnificent Great Rift Valley, you will embark here on adventures offering insights into one Kenya’s most prized wilderness destinations. Chui Lodge boasts amazing gourmet food, and an exclusive set of eight luxurious cottages, featuring original batik artworks, ensuite bathroom, fireplace, and private verandah.
AFRICA
BIRDS OF AFRICA
1. Shenton Safaris 1
Cameras click and adrenalin rushes as you capture the moment a pride of lions kills its prey. As you shift hides, switch lenses for an incredibly close and colourful encounter with nesting carmine bee-eaters.
Behind the Lens
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SHENTON SAFARIS Boasting a proud history of three generations of wildlife conservation in Africa, both Kaingo Camp and Mwamba Bush Camp are creations of the Shenton family. The smallest independent safari operation in South Luangwa National Park, Shenton Safaris camps are located deep within the park. This provides their fortunate clients access to the very best game viewing areas, extremely rich in wildlife, especially big cats. Kaingo Camp consists of six chalets, entirely refurbished, with stunning traditional furniture, soaring skylights, and noise-free solar power. Each chalet affords outdoor bathtubs with ensuite facilities. Private decks overlook the magnificent Luangwa waterway, offering uninterrupted views of wild game. Nestled under giant ebony trees only a few kilometres away is Mwamba Bush Camp, an intimate and authentic camp with three exclusive reed and thatch chalets. Reflecting a thoughtful balance between back-to-nature simplicity and essential comforts, the camp conveys the African spirit throughout. Each chalet includes large skylights, en-suite showers, and artisan dĂŠcor. Shenton Safaris hallmark is their ingenious network of photographic hides offering intimate observation of wildlife and birdlife. Their world-renowned Hippo and Elephant Hides are frequently manned by famous wildlife photographers and documentary filmmakers. The unique Carmine Bee-Eater Hide is another exceptional offering, set on a boat securely anchored a few metres from a colony of magnificently coloured birds, it is said to be the only one of its kind in Africa. Visits to these hides (a total of six) are part of the unique three daily game viewing activities offered by the camps, in addition to wildlife drives and walking safaris. Shenton Safaris actively supports the local community. Shentons are founding members of Project Luangwa, now overseeing many community projects such as the building of schools and sponsoring of children in need. Juliet Shenton proudly sits on their Board of Trustees, while Derek supports anti-poaching efforts within the National Park as Trustee of South Luangwa Conservation Society.
BEHIND THE LENS
AFRICA
Conservation
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SAFARI & CONSERVATION The Safari & Conservation Company has established itself as one of Africa's most exciting new collaborations. Bringing together over 150 years of heritage between two settler families, the portfolio includes a diverse range of lodges and camps, a walking safari outfit, two private air charter companies and a portfolio of artists whose work we feel captures the true essence of Africa. But what makes it truly exciting are the characters behind the operation - the men and women who operate their products have extensive experience both within the region and the whole continent of Africa. They have unrivalled story-telling abilities, and enough material from their own adventures to talk long into the night. During the day, you can join in the adventure, going with them to see wildlife in its natural habitat, flying between the camps or walking with camels. They are the experts to show you around the countries they know and love, introducing you to new and breathtaking landscapes, leaving you in total awe of nature, and the astounding biodiversity that make unparalleled safari destinations. East Africa is a land of incredible diversity, with endless savannahs, thick bush country, and lakes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Each of the member camps and lodges has conservation and community programmes in place, providing solutions for wildlife management, research, education, medical supplies and provision of basic needs such as water. All the projects aim to create lasting solutions, and by going on safari with Safari & Conservation, you will be supporting these efforts as well as experiencing the true essence of an African Safari in its original and most unforgettable form. Come and experience safari in Kenya firsthand, and let Safari & Conservation be the ones who turn your dreams into reality on a luxury wildlife safari.
AFRICA
CONSERVATION
You know that visiting African wildlife sanctuaries is a rare privilege—it’s magical to travel amid endangered species like the Cape leopard, black rhino, or African elephant. Now, you can help
preserve them. Travel with local scientists in the field and absorb their passion for the land. Learn which species are at risk and how we can help, then do your part to aid in this world-changing
effort. Tag birds, track rare animals, or help preserve endangered watering holes. Delight in the knowledge that you are helping save some of the world’s most magnificent animals.
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1. Safari & Conservation 2. De Hoop Nature Reserve 3. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve 4. Khwai Tented Camp 5. Ongava Lodge 6. Damaraland Camp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE
KHWAI TENTED CAMP
The 36,000 hectare De Hoop Nature Reserve, a World Heritage Site situated in the Overberg region near the southern tip of Africa and is only a three hour drive from Cape Town, South Africa. This is the ideal stop over between Cape Town and Knysna.
Feel peaceful coexistence at Khwai Tented Camp on the eastern border of Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana. Located on the River Khwai, this camp has the romance of mobility, and with no permanent structures, can be removed to leave the wilderness exactly as you found it, having little or no impact on this precious environment. Enjoy spacious, comfortable tented accommodation, with beds, private ensuite bathrooms, great food and exclusive personal service.
De Hoop is a treasure-trove of natural beauty including its Marine Protected Area, one of the largest in Africa, and characterised by rich biodiversity and rare species of Fynbos plants that lead down to an unspoiled coastline with secluded bays, dunes and beaches ideal for private beach lazing, picnics and swimming. De Hoop offers a range of catered or self-catering cottages offering comfort and luxury.
ONGAVA LODGE Notice how Namibia's legendary Ongava Lodge is so cleverly built, using local woods and thatch on a small hill in Ongava Game Reserve. You will enjoy remarkable sights of thirsty wildlife congregating at nearby waterhole. Your impeccable setting unfolds in 13 chalets and one family room, attractively built of spiraling branches, thatch, and glass. Interiors delight with artistic pastel colours, and materials like wicker, cottons, and canvas. Indigenous touches reflect wildlife patterns of zebra, giraffe, and cheetah. Delicious meals served in main dining area under thatch, or on sprawling deck while watching Africa stars.
SANBONA WILDLIFE RESERVE Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is surrounded by towering mountains and expanding savannas touching the horizon. Only three hours drive from Cape Town along the longest wine route in the world (famous Route 62), this conservation-minded reserve graces the Western Cape region of South Africa. Sanbona, a malaria-free area, is home to three stunning eco-lodges, magnificently appointed with white linens, African woods, and local stoneworks, and offers an impressive collection of flowering succulents and wildlife. Feel invigorated as walking trails pass blossoming cacti, leading to spectacular San art and dramatic rock formations.
DAMARALAND CAMP Namibia’s prime wilderness region is host to Damaraland Camp, situated in the Huab River Valley, boasting endless vistas across stark plains, ancient valleys, and a stunning Brandberg Mountain backdrop. Ten large en-suite, adobestyle thatched units, are raised off the ground, each with walk-in dressing area and large deck to sit and savour the desert. Use of an array of small lanterns creates an added magical ambience most nights.
CONSERVATION
AFRICA
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Conservation
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1. Cheli & Peacock 2. Lewa Safari Camp
CHELI & PEACOCK Cheli & Peacock operated ‘sustainable tourism’ long before it became fashionable. For almost 27 years Cheli & Peacock has been an innovator and leader in conservation initiatives and community revenue sharing tourism projects. With the majority of Kenya's spectacular wildlife living outside National Parks on private community land, having a strong relationship with communities surrounding the parks is paramount to Kenya’s future. Over the years Cheli & Peacock business has directly contributed to the conservation of biodiversity and protection of the natural and cultural heritage of the areas operated in, as well as to the welfare of local communities by providing them with tangible and sustainable benefits from tourism through employment, capacity building, partnerships and community development projects. In 2011 Cheli & Peacock launched the Cheli & Peacock Community Trust to formalize existing and future community and conservation initiatives, with the aim of solidifying long term partnerships benefitting local communities and ensuring their support for conservation and responsible tourism in the long term.
LEWA SAFARI CAMP Lewa Safari Camp has a stunning location within its parent Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya. Outstanding game viewing highlights idyllic landscapes of Mt. Kenya and beyond. Twelve plush tents each feature a thatched roof, private verandah and full ensuite bathroom. The central areas have cool, beautiful gardens with a sunny verandah, and swimming pool to enjoy during the day. Cosy log fires in the lounge and dining room create a warm ambience on chilly evenings. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy consists of 62,000 acres, home to ten per cent of Kenya's black rhino population, and single largest population of Grevy's zebra in the world.
AFRICA
CONSERVATION
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1. Greystoke Mahale Camp 2. Nyungwe Forest Lodge 3. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge 4. Buhoma Lodge
Venture wide-eyed into untamed rainforests to marvel at gorilla or chimpanzee families playing, grooming, or resting. Our closest biological relatives will intrigue, delight, and surprise you with their fascinating antics.
Primates
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GREYSTOKE MAHALE CAMP The smell of jasmine pervades the slopes of Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains, while the pristine waters of Lake Tanganyika clearly invite a plunge. Home to world’s largest population of chimpanzees, this remote camp makes visiting our forest cousins luxuriously possible, while bedding down in an originally designed construct of sustainable materials locally sourced. Pampered seclusion offers beach, forest, or mountain stream.
NYUNGWE FOREST LODGE
SABYINYO SILVERBACK LODGE
Smells of wood burning fireplaces permeate the rolling Rwanda hills courtesy of the Nyungwe Forest Lodge, the sole five-star property in the region, and ideal base to view 13 local primate species, including Chimpanzee. Luxury dresses 22 spacious villas and two high-end suites on tea plantation’s palatial grounds.
The lodge, situated in the foothills of the mighty Virunga volcanoes and only minutes from the headquarters of Parc National des Volcans where clients trek on foot to see the magnificent Mountain Gorilla.
Nyungwe provides a distinguished level of amenities and services to delight discerning guests. Two spa treatment rooms complement a fitness centre and swimming pool. Guided birdlife walks and primate-viewing activities reign at this award-winning resort.
Eight guest cottages and the main lodge building have been beautifully constructed and appointed and the lodge is the perfect base from which to explore this unique and fascinating corner of Africa. The lodge is built and operated by Governors’ Camp and owned by a Community Trust, which uses rentals and community fees from the lodge to drive socio-economic and conservation initiatives in the communities adjacent to the National Park.
BUHOMA LODGE Buhoma Lodge commands spectacular and uninterrupted views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda, home to the rare and elusive Mountain Gorilla. This top quality, intimate lodge is situated within the National Park, less than five minutes' walk from the start of the gorilla tracking point. Eight comfortable cottages have been carefully built, each with its own private verandah, allowing wonderful views of the forest canopy of the National Park. Inside the spacious cottages you will find comfortable beds, a well appointed en-suite bathroom with flushing toilet, shower and some of the rooms have bath tubs. PRIMATES
AFRICA
The Great Migration
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Mark your calendar–you won’t want to miss this. From late June through August, witness the astounding spectacle of millions of wild animals migrating from the Serengeti Plains to the lush grasslands of the Masai Mara. Stretching to the
horizon, herds of wildebeest, gazelles, and zebras create vibrating shimmers that magnetically attract your gaze. Throughout the year, watch for the other wild residents, too, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, elephants, water-
SERENGETI SAFARI CAMP Though Serengeti Park boundaries officially define the Serengeti, Tanzania, the ecosystem goes way beyond these limits and is known as the Greater Serengeti. It is a giant snapshot of wild Tanzania–masses of animals, contrasting landforms, and tribal peoples. Serengeti Safari Camp travels within the Serengeti National Park, where densities of animals are mostly higher, and the chance of seeing large predators is much greater. This 12-bed tented camp is semi-nomadic–it will move whilst guests are there–but it is actually on a wide orbit, shadowing the Migration, so guests move as close to a million wildebeest as possible.
SAYARI CAMP Located in remote and exclusive northern Serengeti, the award winning Sayari Camp is perfectly positioned to witness the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet: the tumultuous Great Migration of wildebeest crossing the Mara River, Tanzania. Sayari Camp is home to staggering numbers of big cats too, plus giraffe, elephants and rhino, often viewable from your own luxurious king-sized bed or personal verandah. Fifteen wood-floored tents with en-suite, double sink, shower and stunning bath with private view on Serengeti. After wildlife treks, enjoy infinity pool, fireplace, delicious cuisine, drinks, and impeccable service.
LAMAI SERENGETI Prime location overlooking the Serengeti, Tanzania belongs to Lamai Serengeti, tucked amongst red rocks of Kogakuria Kopje. Panoramic views of vast landscape are just a few miles from where wildebeest cross the Mara River. Between late July and October, this is where you will find the Great Migration, on its doorstep. At Lamai Serengeti there are 12 luxury rooms split into two buildings, carefully positioned for maximum wildlife exposure and minimum eco-footprint. Constructed using natural canvas, plaster, and wood poles, these original and luxuriously-equipped units provide guests with the ultimate wild Africa experience.
OLAKIRA CAMP As the Great Migration thunders across the expansive plains of the Serengeti, Tanzania, so the classic mobile Olakira Camp follows, allowing guests a unique and exceptional bush experience. Olakira Camp achieves perfect balance between authentic, intimate, and luxurious. High quality tent accommodations feature king beds, and guests savour stunning food around the campfire under the Serengeti star-filled expanse. Guests may explore the permanently game-rich surrounds in specially adapted vehicles, with some of the best guides in the eco systems. Walking with an armed guide is available while the camp is in the southern Serengeti. AFRICA
THE GREAT MIGRATION
bound hippos and crocodiles, plus clouds of native birds. Treat yourself to one thunderous migration. It will be hypnotic, possibly life changing, and certainly memorable.
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1. Serengeti Safari Camp 2. Lamai Serengeti 3. Sayari Camp 4. Olakira Camp 5. Singita Sasakwa Lodge
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SINGITA SASAKWA LODGE Marvel at the Singita Sasakwa Lodge, beginning with a spectacular, elevated setting overlooking the Serengeti plains. Located within Tanzania’s Singita Grumeti Reserves, the visuals are breathtaking, due to this flagship lodge being positioned amidst the world-famous wildebeest migratory route. Unrivalled wildlife encounters are yours, together with an exemplary ethos of African eco-philanthropy onsite. Spanning some 340,000 acres (142,000 ha) along the Western corridor of the legendary Serengeti, Singita Grumeti Reserves was voted number one in Travel + Leisure's World’s Best Hotels 2011. Relais & Châteaux member, Singita Sasakwa Lodge, reminds you of an Edwardian Manor House. Savour the infinitely luxurious and elegant wood finishings within nine exquisitely styled, spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom cottages, plus a four-bedroom villa. Lavishly appointed throughout, their views across land which ‘stretches to forever’, create the perfect exclusive-use retreat. Exuding dignified charm, the main lodge heralds luxury living and a world-class dining experience. Life-changing safari experiences are distinguished by outstanding game viewing here, highly skilled guides, exceptional design and décor, plus market-fresh cuisine. Guest activities include tennis, game walks and horseback game viewing, or winding down at the spa. Exhilarating equestrian safaris, unfolding across open plains, woodlands, riverine forests, and rugged rocky outcrops, offer spectacular thrills. Singita Grumeti Reserves embodies the Singita ethos of responsible wildlife conservation, combining low-impact tourism with extensive community and conservation programmes. Sasakwa aims to become the standard by which all other safari camps are judged, and makes constant efforts to succeed. Enjoy the personalised service of your own individual guide. Plan your stay according to your level of energy, what wildlife sights you desire most, and how you wish to pace yourself. The impeccable care and attention afforded by your own personal guide ensures heightened enjoyment, comfort, and wilderness excitement.
THE GREAT MIGRATION
AFRICA
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Lemarti’s Camp
Cultural Chic
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LEMARTI'S CAMP Lemarti's Camp has been called the ultimate canvas chic. Voted in the top 5 of the World’s Best Tented Camps by Travel + Leisure, as well as the Most Authentic Camp by Tatler. Are unforgettable safari hideaway in Kenya’s breathtaking northern Laikipia Plateau, last frontier of virgin wilderness and home to the majestic Samburu people. Find a combination of authentic indigenous hosting and cultural immersion with sophisticated style and luxury. Take a magical voyage of discovery into Kenya to encounter an enigmatic people. Set under centenary figs in a palm grove on the banks of Ewaso Nyiro River in Laikipia, this is the second largest wildlife ecosystem in Kenya and boasts the richest wildlife diversity. Home to more endangered mammals than anywhere else in East Africa. Walking beside proud nomads in their environment is truly a mystical experience. Owned and hosted by Samburu tribesman Lemarti, together with Masai friend Boniface, Lemarti's Camp creates an unforgettable safari. With years of personal experience guiding, both are deeply traditional, but with a foot firmly in the modern world. These men travel the globe, rub shoulders with royalty and celebrity alike, and have even co-hosted their own National Geographic miniseries. Lemarti’s Camp is the height of understated canvas luxury, a romantic bush experience, singular on so many levels. Designed and built by Lemarti’s wife, Kenyan designer Anna Trzebinski, you will find yourself surrounded by either personal history or a unique creation, the ambience of a private home in the African bush. Attention to detail is staggering, and gourmet organic cuisine, homegrown produce and sun-ripened fruit are all part of the experience. Visit this unique North Kenya location and access majestic African landscapes, featuring incredible wildlife interactions, conscious conservation, and an immersion in local culture. Watch authentic community relationships unfold daily. Enjoy original style and design and are of holistic wellbeing. Walk with Samburu warriors, track elephants, light fires and stargaze the heavens. Eat like a king, and dream to the sounds of nighttime Africa surrounding you.
AFRICA
CULTURAL CHIC
Immerse yourself in the scents, tastes and sounds of Lemarti’s Camp, an authentic slice of the true Africa. Explore the magical Laikipia Plateau in the shadow of Mount Kenya with Samburu locals, who will track zebras,
giraffes, lions, and many more species roaming free. Even without electricity or running water, you will revel in complete luxur y. Dine spectacularly on organic meals like Swahili chicken, avocado soup, and ginger cookies, all
served under a massive fig tree. Congregate with your fellow explorers for drinks at the big hill, and enjoy scarlet sunsets while listening to regal warriors sing.
More Information 1
1. Lemarti's Camp
Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
CULTURAL CHIC
AFRICA
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Leading Safari Guides
Relax–your dream safari is in good hands. Unwind on a milestone vacation, as true professionals escort you through the wild landscape. These guides come from families with rich traditions of introducing visitors safely to the wonders of
Bushman Guide, The Pans
their homeland. Take note as these legendary characters astutely provide for all your needs, using traditional knowledge, acute sensory awareness, and savoir-faire. Whether you dream of flying over remote savannahs, canoeing
ROBIN POPE The Zambia-born Robin Pope is one of Africa's leading safari guides. Originally interviewed by Norman Carr, he developed his bush knowledge and guiding skills in the 70s after what was meant to be a short break from university. In 1982 he opened a fly-camp offering walking safaris at Tena Tena, thereby launching Robin Pope Safaris. He created Mobile Walking Safaris shortly afterwards and has since grown to nine operations. The company sets the benchmark of safari experiences in Zambia and Lake Malawi, with guiding as a key element. Robin is now in semi-retirement, leading a number of select, remote adventures each year.
LEMARTI AND BONI Lemarti is a native Samburu tribesman and Boni is a Laikipiak Masai. Both have years of personal experience conducting walking safaris in the Great North of Kenya, one of Africa’s last frontiers of virgin wilderness. These two huge charismas, connected as greatest of friends, and experienced National Geographic hosts, will create fun times with you in the wild. "We take you into our safe and gentle care and offer you an unparalleled Africa. You will walk amongst wildlife with warriors armed only with traditional weapons; sharp senses and generations of knowledge. For a few magical days you will inhabit another world."
AFRICA LEADING SAFARI GUIDES
Singita Grumeti Reserves
croc-filled rivers, tracking fresh lion prints, or photographing elephants from Land Rovers, these guides can handle the details. Your happiness and safety are their sole motivation
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1. Lemarti and Boni 2. Robin Pope 3. Willie Roberts 4. Beks Ndlovu 5. Ralph Bousfield 6. Howard Saunders
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
RALPH BOUSFIELD Africa pioneers and adventurers populate five generations of Ralph Bousfield’s family history. But Ralph has his own incredible sixth sense about the bush, derived from years of training and testing with his colourful father, Jack, a legendary character in both Botswana and beyond. Ralph is now recognised as being one of the best safari guides anywhere in Africa, an acknowledged expert on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, and a pioneer of cultural safaris with the Bushmen in Botswana. He is also co-producer and host of ‘Uncharted Africa’ a thirteen-part series for Discovery Channel filmed across Botswana, Namibia, Kenya and Tanzania.
WILLIE ROBERTS Willie was born in Kenya and has over 30 years experience of leading and organizing personal and exclusive safaris. He grew up on the shores of Lake Baringo with his six siblings, where he nurtured his conservation and community vision. He is an expert naturalist and has been involved in conservation initiatives in northern Kenya, as well as in the Mara with the local Masai. He established the Mara Conservancy in the Mara Triangle and his community-run anti-poaching patrols have become a blueprint for future conservation models. He is an expert ornithologist and is renowned for his entertaining bush walks and game drives.
BEKS NDLOVU CEO and private guide, Beks Ndlovu, believes the quality, experience and knowledge of your Africa guide can make or break your safari. African Bush Camps offers the dedication and knowledge to provide guests with a personal yet definitive Africa experience. It is their Mission Statement to not only educate and inform, but to unravel the wilderness adventure by challenging the hearts, minds and souls of clients. The goal is to turn a great safari into your extra-ordinary one. Beks Ndlovu guides and inspires clients across Africa, and remains one of the most well-known and respected private guides in his native Zimbabwe.
HOWARD SAUNDERS Howard Saunders is part of a legendary African company known as The Original Ker & Downey Safaris (Kenya). Howard operates his highly personalised luxury mobilecamping safaris along the same pioneering principles as his predecessors. Ker & Downey Safaris Ltd was founded over sixty years ago, based on the concept that only the finest equipment, and most imaginative, exciting safari programmes, and above all, the most experienced guides in the profession would be used. LEADING SAFARI GUIDES
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Community
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Africa is much more than spectacular landscapes. Africa is defined by its people— the nomads of Tanzania’s Serengeti, Namibian villagers, residents of Cape Town’s sprawling townships, and millions more. No visit to this
continent is complete without the opportunity to connect with the diverse people who call it home. Celebrate tribal life. Feel the ancient earth beneath your feet during a Maasai-guided walk. Stop by a rural school to learn first hand about
UTHANDO (LOVE) SOUTH AFRICA Uthando is a unique and innovative non-profit and Fair Trade-certified company. Uthando (meaning ‘love’ in Swahili) assists a variety of inspired and interesting social development projects in South Africa. The company offers authentic, inspirational, interactive, fun, and meaningful tours and activities for individual travellers, as well as groups of any size in the sprawling and impoverished townships (disadvantaged areas) of Cape Town, South Africa.
DORO NAWAS CAMP Doro Nawas rests on the slopes of a small hill on the edge of the dry Aba-Huab River. Overlooking ancient plains with glorious views of rugged Damaraland, this area of Namibia offers travellers untamed challenges. Guests are housed in 16 natural-walled units. Each unit consists of a bedroom, en-suite bathroom and verandah for stargazing or sleep-outs. There are indoor and outdoor dining areas, a residential pool area and a small curio shop. The camp provides an excellent base for exploring the local area in game-drive vehicles or on foot. Combine a luxury safari experience here with economic empowerment for local community.
NDUARA LOLIONDO Nduara Loliondo, a 12-bed yurt camp, is designed to celebrate nomadic cultures. With its style, comfort and wild setting, it is one of the most unique camps anywhere in Africa. Nduara Loliondo seasonally moves across Loliondo, part of the Great Serengeti eco-system, bordering the Serengeti National Park. This mobility allows you to night-drive and safari-walk in the company of Masaai guides. Be introduced to Masaai culture and immerse yourself in their unique tribal customs. Guests are encouraged to exit vehicles and feel the earth of Africa beneath your feet. The complex life of this vast land can best be viewed up close.
Doro Nawas Camp AFRICA
COMMUNITY
the challenges students face. Step out of your comfort zone—sleep in a mud hut, eat simple food, dance around a fire—and come back with stories you’ll treasure forever
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1. Uthando (Love) South Africa 2. Nduara Loliondo 3. Doro Nawas Camp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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Grumeti Fund COMMUNITY
AFRICA
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Mobile Expeditions
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&BEYOND EXPEDITIONS &Beyond Expeditions are multi-night camping safaris departing on a regularly scheduled basis to the elite wilderness regions of Botswana. This is the epitome of classic Africa: stylish, comfortable, luxury-tented travel. These safaris are in a league of their own. &Beyond specialises in providing camping safaris with a great diversity of wildlife and landscapes, utilising exclusive private camping sites in National Parks and on private concessions. All &Beyond Expeditions are hosted by professional, knowledgeable guides who share a wealth of information gleaned from close interaction with the wildlife and ecology of the regions. The camp team moves with the camp every second day. Guests are warmly taken care of by the same &Beyond team members throughout the expedition. The ten-day &Beyond Botswana Explorer Expedition travels through some of the largest and most remote game sanctuaries in Southern Africa: Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park, Savute and on to Victoria Falls. Classic, spacious domed tents (four metres by four metres) have comfortable beds, crisp linen, bedside tables and lamps. A first in the safari industry, these tents also boast an en-suite bathroom with flush toilet, hand basins and al fresco hot bucket shower. The Botswana Explorer hosts a maximum of six guests per safari. Eight nights are spent camping, with the final night at the Elephant Camp, within easy reach of the magnificent Victoria Falls. The core of the &Beyond experience revolves around the ancient wildlife drama, and how to best allow you to experience the riches it has to offer. Tandem to this is the mandate to preserve the very wild environment and which is in such peril. The company motto ‘Care of the Life, Care of the Wildlife, Care of the People’ says it all. Each day trained teams embark with you to maximise your enjoyment of the collective wild animals, the stunning geography they traverse, and the local indigenous cultures living in harmony with nature. Together, wildlife outfitter and tourists alike may share the rewards of successful conservation tourism now, and long into the future.
AFRICA
MOBILE EXPEDITIONS
Free your imagination with a mobile Africa safari. Ride across the captivating wilderness. Walk spectacular bush trails in the company of expert wildlife and ecology guides. An extensive selection of activities offers every
level of adventure—thrill to a journey by quad bike or gasp in astonishment as a timeless landscape unfolds below you on an air safari. Enjoy a refreshing night’s sleep in a spacious domed tent with crisp linen and full facility
en-suite. Shower al fresco or even sleep under the stars. Delight in the culinary creations of your personal chef. See the authentic African wilderness in superb comfort.
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1. &Beyond Expeditions 2. Botswana Mobile Tented Safaris 3. Diverse Namibia 4. Uncharted Africa Mobile Safari Expeditions 5. Kubu Island Quad Bike Expeditions 6. Tropic Air Helicopter Safaris
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
BOTSWANA MOBILE TENTED SAFARIS Botswana Mobile Tented Safaris delivers guests a unique and authentic safari experience, allowing access to wild areas off the beaten track and away from crowded tourist hotspots. The tented camps offer twin-bedded luxury accommodation in spacious Meru-style tents, with bush-bucket shower and en-suite toilet. This mobile safari is recommended for smaller groups looking for guided adventure safaris tailor-made to suite your tastes and interests.
DIVERSE NAMIBIA
KUBU ISLAND QUAD BIKE EXPEDITIONS
Diverse Namibia is an exciting adventure, discovering key areas of this vast country: dunes, deserts, plains, and iconic wildlife. Enjoy exclusive accommodation in private reserves, concessions and unique access to secluded locations. Take in the soaring red dunes of Sossusvlei, the life-filled blue Atlantic Ocean, desert and denizens of Damaraland, and the plains game and predators of Etosha National Park.
A unique opportunity to combine three nights at Jack’s Camp, San Camp, or Camp Kalahari, with an epic quad-bike journey across the salt pans, together with two nights spent sleeping out under the stars amongst the boulders and baobabs on Kubu Island, Botswana. This crescent-shaped island has terraced slopes with fossil beaches of wave-rounded pebbles, providing startling evidence of the prehistoric lake’s former water levels. Crowned with an array of ancient, gnarled baobab trees, and surrounded on three sides by a stunning grey emptiness, Kubu has a rare atmosphere, and is one of the most graphically beautiful spots in Botswana.
UNCHARTED AFRICA MOBILE SAFARI EXPEDITIONS Real Adventure in Unreal Style! This is your safari tailor-made to suit your interests and your pace. Mobile Safari Expeditions represents the freedom to move to the best areas and follow the game. Private camps and guides make this method ideal for families and small groups desiring privacy and exclusivity. This is the genuine article, a freedom-filled safari. Guests stay in traditional and comfortable Meru tents with en-suite bathrooms and flush toilets. The sole concession to 'roughing it' is a bush shower. Excellent guided excursions, delicious cuisine, and cosy accommodations combine to make your special Africa memory.
TROPIC AIR HELICOPTER SAFARIS Tropic Air Helicopter Safaris takes lucky clients on private helicopter excursions, uncovering Africa’s greatest places. Over savannah plains, desert dunes, tropical forests, snow-capped mountains, lakes teeming with flamingoes and Indian Ocean islands. Take a journey from the summit of Kilimanjaro to the Danakil Depression, or go for a complete East African experience, taking in the highlights of Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda and Rwanda. With the unsurpassed knowledge and experience of the pilot-guides and a unique perspective on the land, these helicopter safaris offer a journey of true African discovery and adventure.
MOBILE EXPEDITIONS
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Safaris by Horse
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Imagine riding across African plains on the back of a glistening thoroughbred stallion, surrounded by millions of wildebeest, gazelles, and zebras. Whether you canter, gallop, or trot, the pace is completely up to you. Choose a luxury mobile
safari, or stay in a welcoming lodge and enjoy varied day-long rides. Delight in breath-taking views, exhilarating wildlife, and uncharted wilderness. From Amboseli in Kenya, to the Makgadikgadi in Botswana and the Serengeti
RIDE KENYA HORSE SAFARIS Explore a special area of Kenya teeming with wildlife. Boasting horseback access to one million acres, including Amboseli and Chyulu Hills National Parks, Ride Kenya Horse Safaris presents the keys to one of the largest wilderness kingdoms of Africa. Iconic Mount Kilimanjaro looms in the distance, watching over your explorations. Join either half-day or full-day rides from Ol Donyo Lodge, or a multi-day, guaranteed, set-departure, luxury mobile horse safari to either the famous Amboseli or Chyulu Hills environs. The 22 very well-schooled horses are fit to handle variables depending on the terrain, the wildlife, and all experience levels of riders. Only intermediate to advanced riders are confirmed on the multiday, guaranteed, set-departure horse safaris. Typical days on multi-day, set-departure horse safaris will consist of about four to seven hours in the saddle, covering distances between 15 to 30 miles, depending on terrain and sightings. Day and night game drives, and bush walks are included in mobile safaris.
MAKGADIKGADI HORSE RIDING SAFARIS The Uncharted Africa Safari Company teams up with David Foot Safaris, creating a fantastic fivenight horse-riding safari. Combining three nights at Jack's Camp, San Camp or Camp Kalahari, with two nights fly-camping out on Makgadikgadi Saltpans, Botswana, now you can explore this wild, unspoiled paradise the way earliest explorers, hunters and missionaries did: on horseback. Exceptional landscape with vast saltpans and sprawling open woodlands lends itself to an unforgettable riding experience. Personal guide service, elegant tent amenities, delicious food, crunchy cotton beddings, and swimming pool, combine to raise the bar.
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SAFARIS BY HORSE
Plains in Tanzania, Safaris by Horse shows you unforgettable vistas on horseback. When you are this close to the Big Five, you are sure to come home with singular stories and photographs.
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1. Ride Kenya Horse Safaris 2. Makgadikgadi Horse Riding Safaris 3. Singita Faru Faru Lodge
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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SINGITA FARU FARU LODGE Equestrians rejoice while exploring the epic migratory route in East Africa’s Singita Grumeti Reserves, Tanzania. Connecting between lodges while riding horseback is truly one of the most memorable offerings anywhere in Africa. Thrill to the adventure of riding on their two-to-eight-day horseback safaris between properties. Unconventional, contemporary, and suitably inspired by the stunning natural assets, Singita Faru Faru offers a unique and refreshing safari experience overall. Spanning some 340 000 acres (142 000ha) along the Western corridor of Tanzania’s legendary Serengeti, Singita Grumeti Reserves continues to win accolades in the hearts and minds of global guests, as well as top tier industry distinctions such as the number one spot on the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Hotels 2011. Singita Faru Faru epitomises barefoot elegance in a laid-back, rustic setting, with eight stylish stone and canvas suites and a sumptuous two-bedroom villa suite. Each houses spectacular indoor and outdoor bathrooms, with breathtaking game viewing afforded by Swarovski spotting scopes through floor-to-ceiling picture windows. Delicious gourmet dining is savoured in an open venue, comfortable bar lounge, or beside the barbeque campfire zone. Involve every one of your senses in wild game sightings from elevated viewing decks overlooking waterholes. Swahiliinspired beach with two rim-flow swimming pools provides recreation between action-packed game drives. Feel the magic touch of a masterful spa treatment or challenge yourself with an invigorating work-out in the gymnasium, offsetting safari adventures to be treasured long afterwards. Hand-picked Singita staff members ensure unforgettable, personal guest experiences, beyond the norm. Singita Grumeti Reserves embodies the Singita ethos of responsible wildlife conservation, combining low impact tourism with extensive conservation programmes. As the name implies in Swahili, 'place of miracles' proves remarkably true. Singita is currently supporting an ambitious relocation programme for the endangered black rhino, yet another miracle in the making.
SAFARIS BY HORSE
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Safaris by Water
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Glide effortlessly atop the winding waterways and crystal-clear lagoons of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Sit back as your expert guide poles your mokoro (dug-out canoe) through long reeds filled with tiny singing frogs and stunning bird life. Spy
on groups of grunting hippos, showering elephants and lurking crocodiles. Explore the Selinda Canoe Trail or the fabled Zambezi River. Delight in national parks and private wilderness preserves. Africa’s watery wonderlands are the lifeblood
SELINDA CANOE TRAIL The Selinda Canoe Trail is a four-day, three-night, guaranteed set-departure adventure along Botswana's Selinda Spillway, linking Okavango Delta with Linyanti-Kwando water systems. The approximately 45-kilometre canoe trail, with only eight guests per departure, hearkens back to the spirit of safaris of old. Spend your days on guided impromptu explorations and each night camp along the banks of a river. Wildlife sightings whilst paddling include elephant, hippo, buffalo, sable, roan, and wild dog, with possible predator encounters. Enjoy impromtu bush walks en-route, filled with sights and sounds of this birding and wildlife paradise.
KINGS POOL CAMP Kings Pool Camp, in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, is a vast private concession in the northern part of Botswana. Located on the western boundary of Chobe National Park, this accommodation is luxurious, the wildlife spectacular. Overlooking Linyanti River and the oxbow-shaped Kings Pool Lagoon, named after a Scandinavian monarch who spent nights camping on its banks, large herds of elephants frequently appear. Nine well-appointed canvas and thatch rooms each have a large en-suite bedroom and lounge. Folding doors lead to a verandah with private plunge pool, separate thatched sala to soak up the views and an outdoor shower.
ZAMBEZI LIFE STYLES Legendary Mana Pools, Zimbabwe is known for wildlife-rich flood plains and magnificent views of Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. The river boasts Africa’s premier tiger fishing and adventure canoeing safaris, making this World Heritage Site a must-visit National Park. The Zambezi Life Styles camp sets up the day before your arrival and comprises four luxury twinbedded tents with en-suite flush toilet, hot bucket showers, 12-volt lamps and charging for cameras, dining tent and sitting area. Delight in the Shona and Tonga service talents, as they serve you breakfast, tea, dinner, or cake in the midst of viewing astonishing wildlife.
MKULUMADZI LODGE Surrounded by (17,000 acres) of private concession, Mkulumadzi Lodge in Malawi enjoys an idyllic location at the confluence of two rivers. It’s the perfect combination of splendid isolation and firstclass facilities. The main lodge area presents a restaurant, lounge and terrace, bar, shop, fire area, viewing deck, and swimming pool. The eight luxury en-suite chalets are tucked beneath the surrounding riverine forest of Marula, Leadwood and Star-Chestnut trees. Each unit comprises a spacious bedroom and lounge area, sunken bath, double basins, outdoor double shower, and exclusive viewing deck with private view onto the Shire River. AFRICA
SAFARIS BY WATER
for millions of wild animals, so whether you are recharging at a luxury lodge or adventuring at a fly-in camp, you are ideally located to enjoy lifechanging wildlife experiences.
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1. Selinda Canoe Trail 2. Zambezi Life Styles 3. Kings Pool Camp 4. Mkulumadzi Lodge 5. Xigera Camp 6. Ruckomechi Camp 7. Sausage Tree Camp 8. Migration Routes
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XIGERA CAMP Xigera Camp (pronounced Keejera) is located on a riverine island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. This part of the Moremi Game Reserve is a true wetland paradise, with Xigera Camp surrounded by deep channels and lush vegetation. Xigera Camp consists of ten luxuriously furnished tented rooms, each with en-suite facilities, and an outdoor shower. Raised on wooden platforms and walkways, each tent offers superb views of the seasonal Okavango Delta floodplains and the lagoon. Permanent water year-round allows an unparalleled variety of activities such as mokoro trips, wildlife game drives and motorboat outings.
SAUSAGE TREE CAMP Sausage Tree Camp entices you into the classic African wildlife experience in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia. Thoughtfully designed remoteness, layout and decor, Sausage Tree Camp immerses guests wholeheartedly into a magical combination of luxury, hospitality, and wildlife. Game viewing heads a robust panoply of fun activities combining magnificent surroundings with awesome wildlife viewing. Led by professionally trained, qualified and well experienced safari guides, this secluded camp offers a tranquil getaway, phenomenal game viewing, and extensive menu of diversions to satisfy and entertain all tastes.
RUCKOMECHI CAMP On the middle reaches of the Zambezi River, 60 miles below Lake Kariba, is the Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe. Situated in the heart of the Zambezi Valley, Ruckomechi Camp lies on the banks of the Zambezi, shaded by a large grove of acacia and mahogany trees. Superb views of the mountains of Africa's Great Rift Valley across the river in Zambia abound. Luxurious Ruckomechi Camp accommodates guests in ten spacious en-suite tented units, including a honeymoon suite, all overlooking the Zambezi River. Ruckomechi Camp aims to be environmentally-friendly wherever possible-hot water and lighting are provided by solar power.
MIGRATION ROUTES This short nature and wildlife-focused route explores the thundering waters of Victoria Falls, the continually-moving wildlife of northern Botswana, within the broad vistas of the Linyanti with its wooded deciduous forests and the crystal-clear waterways, and the fertile green islands of the Okavango Delta. Staying in private wilderness areas offers a diverse range of activities, as you follow the fault lines of northern Botswana and visit iconic Savute Channel as well. Covering these unique wilderness areas from the air, by vehicle, on foot, or in mokoro, ensures close connection with nature, and spectacular game viewing. SAFARIS BY WATER
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Flamingos, Lake Nakuru
Walking
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Walk trails that humans were using long before history was recorded. Track wildlife, scale riverbanks and cross savannahs. Draw on your safari guide’s deep knowledge of history and culture to better understand Africa.
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1. Kanga Camp 2. Kitich Camp 3. Zambia Mobile Safaris 4. Nsefu Camp
KANGA CAMP Walkers’ paradise set in Mana Pools World Heritage Site, Zimbabwe, the luxrious Kanga Camp offers one family unit and five additional twin-bedded tents, all with en-suite bathroom facilities. Built on raised wooden decking, the main lounge and dining area overlook the Kanga Pan, the only known water source available throughout the year, making it a hub of activity for wildlife, and a delight to explore on foot. Undeveloped, this amazing geography gives you the purest, un-spoiled Africa safari experience. Do not miss ‘Kanga Under the Stars’, your opportunity to sleep outdoors under the endless Africa skies, lit solely by the stars.
ZAMBIA MOBILE SAFARIS Robin Pope and Zambia Mobile Safaris have a legendary reputation in the Africa wilderness experience of South Luangwa. Walking is the only way to really discover the secrets of the bush. Walks are led by an experienced naturalist and accompanied by an armed game scout. The Luangwa Valley, which marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, is one of the last un-spoilt wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa. It covers over 3,500 square miles with meandering Luangwa River running through it. Ox bow lagoons, woodlands, and valley plains host huge concentrations of game and 450 species of birds.
KITICH CAMP Overlook a river glade from Kitich Camp, in a remote Kenya valley within lush indigenous forest. Gaze at Mathews Mountain Range rising out of the desert, a chain of peaks covered in dense dewy forest. Your camp is home to elephant, leopard, bushbuck, buffalo, ancient cycads, spectacular butterflies, Turacos and wild orchids. From Kitich Camp’s enchanted lounge, you will enjoy watching wildlife emerge from the forest at dusk. Walk along forest paths guided by Samburu, or go swimming in natural rock pools of crystal mountain streams, Kitich Camp is an authentic ‘bush camp’ and offers you a unique private wildlife experience.
NSEFU CAMP Discover Nsefu on a sweeping bend of Luangwa River, the first game camp in Zambia. Dating back to the early fifties, Nsefu Sector was recognised as a phenomenal wildlife area then, and continues to provide visitors a robust wildlife experience now. Robin Pope reopened the camp in 1999, keeping the original style. The bar, tucked in beside a huge dormant termite mound, overlooks a waterhole that is very active with wildlife, including leopard at night. The original rondavels have been extended, with a spacious bathroom added. Each room has a clear view of the river through large windows, and from the new wooden verandahh.
AFRICA WALKING
1. Shongololo Express 2. The Blue Train 3. Rovos Rail
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Step aboard an African train for a classic adventure. Relax in an elegant heritage carriage as incomparable scenes unfold outside your window: bounding wildlife, timeless villages, and sweeping savannahs and flood plains.
Rail Journeys
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SHONGOLOLO EXPRESS Shongololo Express train safaris traverse eight countries in Africa, on four different itineraries. Passengers onboard the luxury train travel comfortably during the night, waking up each morning at a new destination. Shongololo Express Train is like a ‘cruise ship on land.’ No daily packing or unpacking of luggage is required. During the day, guests may enjoy a variety of excursions led by professional multilingual guides on air-conditioned buses. There are optional extra activities offered, and breakaway overnights in private game lodges. Full English and Continental breakfast, plus four-course dinners are included.
THE BLUE TRAIN The Blue Train is the ultimate in luxury rail travel. Since 1946, it has offered a unique way of experiencing the best of Southern Africa’s magnificent landscapes and landmarks. You will feel luxury from the moment you step into your suite. The Deluxe Suite offers you a choice between twin beds (with shower) or double beds (with bath). Luxury Suites are more spacious and offer twin or double beds with bath facilities. Each suite is a world on its own, with private entertainment centre featuring choice of movie channels and radio stations. Guests indulge in fine cuisine with personal butlers at their beck and call.
ROVOS RAIL Rebuilt wood-panelled coaches offer accommodation of unmatched luxury and space, combining the opulence of pre-war travel and subtle modern conveniences. Enjoy exemplary service, gourmet dining and fine wines, as magnificent scenery unfolds. Rovos Rail offers two-night scheduled departures from its private station in Pretoria to Cape Town, Victoria Falls and Durban. Annual journeys include the epic 14-day Cape Town-to-Dar Es Salaam Edwardian Safari, the nine-day Pretoria-to-Swakopmund (Namibia) journey and nine-day African Collage, the astounding luxury train journey linking the cream of South Africa’s scenic attractions.
RAIL JOURNEYS
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Safari Chic
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Just because you’re indoors doesn’t mean you can’t immerse yourself in the therapeutic effects of Africa’s landscapes. Style-conscious hoteliers have created inimitable refuges where the décor is designed in harmony with your spectacular
surroundings: think earth tones, rustic materials and natural shapes. An added bonus: many of these luxury safari lodges have a minimal impact on the local ecology, ensuring guests can enjoy this delightful balance between stunning interiors
SINGITA SWENI LODGE
EARTH LODGE
Surrounded by sounds of South African birds, ‘deja vu’ echoes at Singita Sweni as friendly greetings celebrate your arrival. A spectacular setting overlooking the N’wanetsi River, this exclusive Kruger National Park concession offers unsurpassed luxury in the heart of pristine wilderness. One of the highest rates of wildlife in the park includes a remarkable number of lions.
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge takes its cue from South Africa’s vast mineral wealth. Each item of décor, including gilded chandeliers in the lounge, unique table settings in dining areas, sculpted furniture in the library and bar, is an original work of art. A meditation garden leads to the dreamy Amani Spa, a great place to safari soak, and there is a gym and renowned subterranean wine cellar too.
Bask in this tranquil sanctuary, as Singita Sweni’s singular intimacy delights within six suites. Floorto-ceiling glass walls invite nature indoors, as private viewing decks, open-air living, and dining areas along the Sweni River, complete the menu.
A unique ‘day bar’ is a perfect setting for guests to relax with feet in cool water, watching the waterhole. Dinners are enjoyed in boma, wine-cellar, or around the central ponds. Each of 13 ultra-luxurious suites, including the magnificent Amber Presidential Suite, are en-suite with deep natural stone baths and indoor and al-fresco showers, leading to secluded private plunge pools with lounging chairs facing the bushveld. All are framed with imaginative garden design innovations. The famous Sabi Sabi safari experience of close encounters with wildlife, is complemented by the uniquely original aesthetics of the new Earth Lodge.
KAPAMA KARULA Luxuriously set on the banks of South Africa’s Klaserie River, which flows throughout the year, Kapama Karula, or ‘the place of peace,’ is true to its name in every way. Consisting of seven luxury tents, and five large exclusive suites, this is the epitome of comfort in the wild. Each unit features his and hers basins, plus inside and outside showers. Both the tents and the suites are air-conditioned, and come with every luxury amenity imagineable. The new lounge, dining room, bar, boma, pool and deck, as well as guest entertainment areas, will impress even the most travelled guests. Units are highlighted by unrestricted views onto the Klaserie River.
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SAFARI CHIC
and exteriors for generations to come. These chic destinations also give you the chance to indulge in private pampering, explore spectacular wilderness and savour fine cuisine. 5 4 1, 2, 3
1. Singita Sweni Lodge 2. Kapama Karula 3. Earth Lodge 4. Singita Pamushana Lodge 5. Jao Camp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
SINGITA PAMUSHANA LODGE Majestically perched high against sandstone cliffs within seemingly endless acres of wilderness on Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe, Singita Pamushana’s strikingly original design incorporates the vast scale of the terrain. Reflections of paradise ricochet throughout six luxurious suites, and a palatial five-bedroomed villa. Authentic ambience is filled with tribal history, animal souvenirs, and cultural artifacts of local Shangaan. Three lounges and an impressive wine cellar invite slothful calm, while facilities boast bush spa and gym, two heated pools and Jacuzzi. Wildlife safaris, sunset cruises, bush walks and fishing, perfectly offset afternoons spent poolside inhaling nature’s majestic vistas. Teeming with wildlife and ancient San rock art, all profits generated are invested back into local community, wildlife and conservation projects. Global Winner, Conservation Category in World Travel and Tourism Council’s ‘Tourism for Tomorrow Awards 2011’, the camp is accessible via a two-hour flight from Johannesburg.
JAO CAMP Jao Camp is at the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana, on a large, remote island. The Camp has nine individually handcrafted twin-bedded canvas and thatched rooms. Each includes a lounge, dressing area and main bedroom, en-suite facilities with old-style fittings, and outdoor shower. The main area boasts an inviting lounge and dining area, two plunge pools, a small library, curio shop and a boma, for dining under the stars. This appealing mix is complemented by an excellent wine cellar. Mokoro, boating, fishing, and day and night game drives are offered throughout the year, in one of the most picturesque concessions in the Delta.
SAFARI CHIC
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Coasts and Lakes
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Photograph exotic wildlife, swim with dolphins, savour gourmet dinners and unwind at idyllic retreats along Africa’s shores. Choose freshwater Lake Baringo for dazzling bird life, Lake Malawi for a record number of fish species or the pounding
South African saltwater surf for diving. Wherever you go, savour the sensory pleasures found waterside throughout Africa. Ride canoes to watch hippos and crocs, scuba dive among whale sharks, or fish for tilapia. Plush resort rooms—highlighted
OCEANA BEACH AND WILDLIFE RESERVE Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve lies nestled above dramatic sand dunes on four miles of blue flag beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean on a malaria-free, private game reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Seven private suites and three-bedroom villa allow guests spectacular bush and sea views, surrounded by bushbuck, birds and other wildlife. The romance inside echoes the wild exterior in original themed décor and art. Privacy and superb service abound, proving Oceana provides the best of both worlds. Each suite opens onto ocean views, capturing spectacular sunrises, sunsets and game viewing opportunities.
ROCKTAIL BEACH CAMP Rocktail Beach Camp is set back and shaded by the sanctuary of the lush Maputaland Coastal Forest. This bird-filled greenery covers ancient dunes making up the edge of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal coast. With the Maputaland Marine Reserve just offshore and the beach a brisk 20-minute walk from camp, world-class diving, snorkelling, plus remote, unspoiled beaches and other local marine-based adventures are aplenty to make your very own. The camp consists of 17 rooms, all of which sport plenty of glass to invite the gorgeous outdoors inside, plus en-suite bathrooms, mosquito nets, indoor shower and overhead fans. Seven family units accommodate two adults and two children with two bedrooms and one bathroom. Rocktail Bay is unique for scuba aficionados. Diving takes place within a reserve and World Heritage Site along unspoiled reefs. Divers have the luxury of knowing they are alone, have sole access to these sites, and are the only underwater visitors along this stunning coastline. Do not miss Loggerhead turtles laying eggs nearby.
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in dramatic azure, gold and magenta—feature traditional artisanal items, including masks, furniture and curios. The service, meanwhile, cradles you in comfort.
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1. Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve 2. Rocktail Beach Camp 3. Pumulani Lodge 4. Samatian Island Lodge
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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PUMULANI LODGE Pumulani Lodge unfolds gracefully across the westside of Nankumba Peninsula, on the southern end of Lake Malawi. Romantically called ‘The Lake of Stars’, the peninsula borders dramatic Lake Malawi National Park. The main area of the modern lodge is located on top of the hill, with ten luxurious hillside villas leading to the beach area below. Spectacular views over the lake from anywhere on the property are magnetic. Privacy, space and a sense of well-being are key elements. Relax in the majesty of this tranquil scenery, or enjoy a large menu of adventures: water sports, dhow cruises, mountain biking, birding, and more.
SAMATIAN ISLAND LODGE Located on private island in Lake Baringo, in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, Samatian Island Lodge is a place to relax, and enjoy spectacular landscapes and birdlife. The lodge has just six rooms, and is the perfect location for a mid-safari break, or alternative to the coast at the end of a safari. Lake Baringo is famous for its ever-changing colours, from bronze to azure, and stunning array of equally colourful birdlife. Fascinating interactions are also possible with little-known local cultures, including the Pokot and Njemps peoples. Watch their beautiful dances, or see how they create works in metal, wood, or leather.
COASTS AND LAKES
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Desert and Dunes
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Explore over 350,000 square miles of spectacular deserts, dunes and ocean vistas by quad bike, sand surf board or balloon in Namibia and Botswana. Plush camps, great food and personal service make for an exclusive experience.
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1. &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge 2. San Camp 3. Kulala Desert Lodge 4. Serra Cafema 5. Great Namibian Journey
&BEYOND SOSSUSVLEI DESERT LODGE Cradled against ancient mountains, ten stone and glass desert villas of Sossusvlei Desert Lodge blend grandeur and solitude of the Namib with sophisticated elegance and comfort. Massive windows open onto the endless vistas, framed in the background by the ever-changing colours of the dunes. Stars shine directly on your bed through a glazed skylight. Precious water from an underground spring feeds the refreshing lodge pool, while wildlife gathers at nearby waterholes. Dune dinners in dramatic desert locations reveal the wonders of the open spaces, and mysteries of the star-strewn skies are unlocked by a resident astronomer.
KULALA DESERT LODGE Hidden at the foot of majestic Namibia Sossusvlei dunes, a private entrance to Namib Naukluft Park highlights this unique location, making Kulala Desert Lodge the closest spot to Sossusvlei. Magnificent views of its famous red dunes, mountainous scenery, and vast open plains, produce a spectacular setting for your luxury tent experience. Activities impress guests with the overwhelming magnitude, solitude and tranquillity of the desert, and include private Sossusvlei tours, horse riding, hot air ballooning, scenic nature walks, ecosensitive guided quad-biking, and drives to view the desert’s fascinating flora and fauna.
SAN CAMP
SERRA CAFEMA
San Camp is one of the most romantic camps in Africa. Completely rebuilt in 2011, the camp’s six white tents stand majestically on the edge of the endless Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana. The central dining tent houses a small library and natural history museum filled with fascinating artifacts. Guests can relax, unwind and retreat in the yoga and meditation pavilion.
Find Serra Cafema’s remote location along the banks of Kunene River in northwest Namibia, a three-hour light aircraft trip from Windhoek. Intimacy is assured you here in the Hartmann Valley, a peaceful camp weaving unique blends of rustic and luxury elements. Soothing river rapids provide calming ambience under shady trees. Release yourself into a dreamland of gurgling waters, and explore one of the driest, starkly beautiful regions in the world.
San Camp operates from 16th April to 31st October. Activities on offer include interacting with habituated meerkats, walking with Bushmen guides, game drives to experience unique desert wildlife, Chapman’s Baobab, and quad-biking across the pans.
GREAT NAMIBIAN JOURNEY Quintessential journey encompasses Namibia: stunning landscapes, endless skies, barren deserts, rugged mountains, and awesome wildlife. Explore dunes of Sossusvlei, awesome sights of Namib Desert, encounter stark beauty of Skeleton Coast, marine life around Swakopmund, and game-filled savannahs of Etosha. Dive with dolphins on private beach at Walvis Bay, hike or cycle Damaraland to interact with Damara and Himba locals, or even track rhinos on foot.
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DESERT AND DUNES
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1. Royal Chundu Luxury Zambezi Lodge 2. Tongabezi Lodge 3. The Stanley and Livingstone 4. Toka Leya Camp
Surrender to the awe-inspiring, drenching delights of the Zambezi River’s magnificent Victoria Falls. Explore parks teeming with waterfowl, forest birds and other wildlife. Revel in history while bedding down in sheer luxury.
Majestic Victoria Falls
ROYAL CHUNDU LUXURY ZAMBEZI LODGE
THE STANLEY AND LIVINGSTONE
Unleash your tensions at Royal Chundu, where guests absorb the serenity of this authentic Africa escape on mighty Zambezi River, Zambia. You overlook the surrounding Bushveld, as the land speaks of solitude and unspoiled beauty.
Recharge in style at The Stanley and Livingstone, a small luxury hotel aimed at discerning individuals. Marvel at their 6000-acre private reserve, just ten minutes drive from the Victoria Falls. Hotel offers 16 exquisitely furnished suites, each with en-suite Victorian-style bathroom, gracious lounge, and secluded personal patio. Venture into Big-Five reserve for an indelible game experience, or enjoy myriad of activities in this historic area.
Guests' short drive from Livingstone, and famed Victoria Falls, will present ten beautiful, airconditioned suites at River Lodge, each hidden from civilization, and four luxuriously appointed villas at the exclusive Island Lodge. Savour truly lavish surroundings at Royal Chundu, while thrilling at Africa’s magnificent wildlife, or simply relax with a rejuvenating treatment from the unique floating spa.
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TOKA LEYA CAMP Overlooking the mighty Zambezi River, Zambia and some of its islands is Toka Leya Camp, consists of 12 spacious safaristyle tents. Wooden walkways snake between the units and main area, limiting our footprint on this pristine environment. The Zambezi River offers memorable fishing opportunities, and tiger-fishing is an especially unforgettable challenge for keen fishermen, particularly during the warmer months of October to December.
TONGABEZI LODGE Tongabezi Lodge maybe described as the ultimate luxury retreat. The original Zambezi River property, the lodge offers laid back refinement integrated into a design favouring vast living spaces. It simply provides the perfect frame for the beauty of Zambia, the mighty Zambezi River featured as part of almost every viewpoint. Guests choose from a selection of river cottages, unique, open-fronted houses, plus an enclosed house or double bed-roomed garden house, both with private plunge-pool. Whether you slow down only for meals, or indulge in serious time out during your break, Tongabezi has a selection of unusual locations to satisfy you.
Victoria Falls MAJESTIC VICTORIA FALLS
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Rivers and Waterways
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It’s a symphony like no other. Listen as wetlands come alive with the grunting of hippos, the splash of crocodiles and the wondrous cacophony of birdsong. On a silent canoe ride, approach wild animals in their natural habitat and observe them
at play. Trust your guide to lead you to superb vantage points where you can spot game bathing and drinking. Marvel at some of the earth’s last unspoiled landscapes: shimmering rivers, winding waterways, vast floodplains. As dusk closes in,
KWANDO LEBALA Lebala is the Tswana word for wide-open plains, and each spacious tent is perched with extensive views over African plains and wetlands. Part of Botswana's Kwando-Linyanti flood plain system, these marshlands and savannahs are an intricate labyrinth of waterways, islands, bush, scrub and trees. Astounding wildlife abounds on this vast geography, creating spectacular scenery adorned with massive herds and the ever-attendant predators. Lebala offers you eight custom-designed ensuite luxury tents, plus regular sightings of elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, impala, wildebeest and more, in stunning ecosystem comfort.
KHWAI RIVER LODGE Overlooking vast Khwai River floodplains and beyond into the Moremi Reserve, Khwai River Lodge in Botswana is one of Africa’s most sought-after locations for viewing large concentrations of lion, leopard, and wild dog, plus big game such as elephant, water buffalo and hippo. Walking safaris, plus day and night game drives are offered in open 4WD vehicles and always create exceptional personal memories. Your accommodation is in classic Hemingway-styled tents.
SELINDA CAMP Watch bountiful wildlife from Selinda Camp, resting on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, in the private 32,000 acre Selinda Reserve of northern Botswana. Continue to enjoy the extraordinary game viewing, as well as the prolific floodplains and sanannahs, from your shaded, luxury tented safari camp. The raised wooden decks, surrounding both the main lounge and guest tents, allow you to enjoy delicious cuisine or relaxing afternoon tea, while still thrilling to the incredible sights of Africa's untamed bounty. There is a hardly a moment in camp where there isn't an animal in your sight. On safari, it is possible for you to see tremendous diversity of species too, from resident prides of lion to huge herds of elephant and packs of wild dog. Home to the ungulates, you may also see the rare roan or ubiquitous zebra. Nocturnal wildlife is also prolific with frequent sightings of aardwolf and civet. Exploring this vast area defies imagination, either by foot, 4WD open game drive vehicle, boat, or simply sitting quietly.
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RIVERS AND WATERWAYS
unwind in an exquisite camp, lodge or villa. Let your hosts soothe your body, mind and spirit with great food, vintage wines, spa treatments, fine linens and personal service. 1-3
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1. Kwando Lebala 2. Khwai River Lodge, Moremi Reserve 3. Selinda Camp 4. Luangwa River Camp 5. Great Wilderness Journey
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
LUANGWA RIVER CAMP This ten-bedroom camp is situated opposite the game-rich Luangwa Wafwa, South Luangwa, in Zambia. It has all the creature comforts of a deluxe camp, yet intimacy, tailored activities, and flexible mealtimes akin to a bushcamp. Nothing else like this is being offered in Luangwa Valley. The camp is unique, with décor of locally-crafted handmade details. The main area is elevated on wooden decks affording great park and river views. The swimming pool is sunk into the deck on two levels with a waterfall adjoining the two pools. Seating areas are elevated and open plan, with bar, dining, and reading spaces well designed into mix.
GREAT WILDERNESS JOURNEY Choose a classic or deluxe camping safari, and take time to immerse yourself in Botswana's rich scenic north. Explore the lushly vegetated wetlands of Okavango Delta, to game-rich floodplains of Linyanti and Chobe. Cap your tour with famous Victoria Falls in Zambia. Your three-night stays in each locale ensure magical discoveries of natural habitats and game movements in an untamed and mythic paradise. Travellers have a wide range of activities: guided walks, secure day and night wildlife viewing, plus a packed menu of water and land-based options. Do not miss ‘Flight of Angels’ air transfer between Kasane and Livingstone.
Lechwe, Jao Camp
RIVERS AND WATERWAYS
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Okavango Delta
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&BEYOND XARANNA OKAVANGO DELTA CAMP Find Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp set privately in its own wilderness of 61,800 acres. Southeast of Moremi Wildlife Reserve, Botswana, the camp sits in the centre of one of the most unique regions in the world, the Okavango Delta. Witness lush waterways and abundant wildlife, as Okavango is home to an amazing inventory of aquatic and land species, including large African predators. Located in northern Botswana, Okavango River is a unique natural phenomenon, flowing more than 620 miles from its source in Angola. You will be amazed to discover this river disappears beneath the sands of Botswana, creating a lush inland delta in the midst of this otherwise arid country. Marvel at how the Okavango Delta is in a constant state of flux, expanding and contracting according to rainy seasons. While some parts of the Delta remain permanently flooded, others are only deluged during the rainy season from October to April. See approximately one third of the Delta covered with permanent lush and green swamp areas, as groves of wild date palm, papyrus and water lilies grow around deep lagoons lined with riverine forest. Note how seasonal swamps contain a network of small channels cutting their way through papyrus and reed beds, to create islands of many shapes and sizes. Xaranna is located on the channels and lagoons of the southern, seasonal part of the Delta. Xaranna enjoys tranquil solitude on its own Delta island. Taking its inspiration from the water lily, it is a delightful camp with just nine sleek en-suite safari tents combining canvas and bleached timber. Travellers have sweeping views from all rooms across the channels. Romantics will savour the sala, private plunge pool, indoor bathtub and al fresco showers. Guests experience guided walking safaris, interpretive game drives and traditional mokoro excursions. Notice the attention to details throughout your camp stay, from the needlework on cotton bed trimmings and wildlifesewn pillows, to selected handicraft baskets and wood carvings, to those cuddly stuffed hippos offered as perfect Africa souvenirs for loved ones back home.
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OKAVANGO DELTA
Set out by mokoro (dug-out canoe) through a fascinating labyrinth of channels and islands. The Okavango Delta—a 9,500-square-miles mosaic of rivers and floodplains—offers some the continent’s premier game viewing. Watch the gut-wrenching
survival cycle of lions, water buffalo, jackals, warthogs and even the rare African civet unfold before your wondering eyes. At night, luxuriate in a spacious, raised tent suite. Drift to sleep in a four-poster bed heaped with fluffy cotton pillows
and spread with Egyptian linens. Even deep in the bush, enjoy the comforts of home: en-suite flush toilets, hot and cold running water, showers, and soaking tubs. 1-5
1. &Beyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp 2. Duba Plains Camp 3. Mombo Camp 4. Kanana Camp 5. Okuti Camp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
DUBA PLAINS CAMP Learn how Duba Plains, located on a private 77,000-acre reserve in the northern reaches of Botswana's Okavango Delta, embodies the soul of ‘wild Africa’. Complemented by permanent channels and larger wooded islands, wildlife diversity is guaranteed year-round. Meander on permanent waterways providing extraordinary bird watching and steady supply of water for passing elephant herds. See red lechwe, hippo, crocodile, kudu, impala, mongoose, warthog and tsessebe dot the landscape, with leopard an increasingly common sight. Lions are renowned for their pursuits of the buffalo herds here. Open plains’ nutritious grasses, coupled with clean, clear waters, create the perfect habitat for the buffalo, with the lions never far behind. Duba's lions are most active during daylight, and many of their famous buffalo hunts will occur in your full view. A perfect stay at Duba is three, perhaps four nights, giving you the opportunity to learn about the lion pride dynamics, and appreciate the complexity of the Delta's ecosystem.
MOMBO CAMP You will love the large shady trees at Mombo Camp, overlooking their floodplain teeming with wildlife. Recharge on Mombo Island, just off the northern tip of Chief’s Island, in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Mombo Camp comprises nine spacious tents raised off the ground, all built to maximise the vistas over the plains. Explore the savannah and floodplain while on informative wildlife game drives, delight at natural mosaics of Chief’s Island wildlife viewing, and relish the camp’s personal service, great food, and luxe accommodations. Your super game viewing experience starts in Mombo Camp's verandahhh seat.
KANANA CAMP Hidden jewel set on Xudum River in Okavanga Delta's southwest. This unique area encompasses necklace of islands dotted with palm, fig, and ebony trees, and a myriad of birds, plants and wildlife. Guests are accommodated in eight spacious, twin-bedded tents, set on raised teak decks, offering breathtaking waterway views. This true delta camp boasts a wide variety of excitement and amenities set in the beauty of the ever-fluctuating delta phenomenon.
OKUTI CAMP Allow Okuti Camp to cater for your group of up to 18 guests in large, beautifully appointed curved thatch tents. Each room features en-suite bathroom, showers, hot and cold running water, and flush toilets. Five units are twin-bedded and two family rooms consist of two bedrooms with shared bathroom. Birders delight in the open boma overlooking the waters’ edge, evening campfires bring travellers together, and the swimming pool offers cool relief.
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Mombo Camp, Okavango Delta
Spectacular Views
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Pick up your binoculars and watch faraway shapes morph into iconic spectacles: thundering elephant herds, cheetahs speeding across the Serengeti, hippos bathing or wildebeest silhouetted against idyllic sunsets. These are the spectacular views of your dreams.
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1. Tortilis Camp 2. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve 3. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
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&BEYOND NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE Watch spectacular swirling mists on the edge of the mythical crater, and be enchanted by the lodge's architecture. You may think you have entered a safari fantasy. Steeped in romance, each unit is up on stilts, using handcrafted mud and thatch, and adorned with graceful antiques, elegant teak paneling, and whimsical African treasures. Notice the centrepiece of roses in your en-suite bathrooms, featuring huge showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure breathtaking views. Domed dining room, with its fireplace, crystal, silverware, and massive wooden platters, turns your every meal into a special occasion.
TORTILIS CAMP Rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit connection at Tortilis Camp in Amboseli, best known for local elephant populations, and unrivalled views of towering Mt. Kilimanjaro. Treasure your time at one of Amboseli's few areas of Acacia Tortilis woodlands, with a majestic backdrop. Notice the many namesake flat-topped umbrella thorn trees surrounding this luxury eco-lodge. Tortilis Camp offers 16 spacious en-suite tents, a new Family Tent, and spectacular Private House. Enjoy game drives, guided Masai Mara walks, massages, and bush meals shared inside the wildlife park, or within Tortilis Camp's private 30,000 acre game concession.
GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE Grootbos Private Nature Reserve boasts exquisite deluxe accommodation and extravagance, in an idyllic haven where the unsurpassed beauty of nature dominates even the most lavish interior and exterior design. Grootbos' luxurious Lodges and Villa Suites have been artfully crafted within rare fynbos and milkwood forests, on the mountain slope overlooking the whale-watching mecca of Walker Bay, situated along South Africa’s beautiful Western Cape.
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SPECTACULAR VIEWS
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1. Little Kulala 2. Loisaba Star Beds
Reconnect with the universe under the millions of stars that turn Africa’s evening sky into a glittering velvet roof. Wheel your bed onto the deck, arrange your pillows and bask in the splendour.
Star Gazing
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LITTLE KULALA This acclaimed desert retreat is situated amongst camel thorn trees on the dry Auab riverbed in Kulala Wilderness Reserve, Namibia. The 11 climate-controlled, luxury thatched villas merge impeccably into the timeless desert landscape, with exquisite amenities, and innovative bleached decks with private plunge pools. Varied activities aim to acquaint you with the splendour, solitude, and stark beauty of the Namib Desert. Excursions, nature drives and walks, provide awe-inspiring views of desertadapted wildlife and plants. Cast your gaze from a hot-air balloon, or quad-bike, offering unique personal experiences.
LOISABA STAR BEDS Wheel your bed onto your private deck under the Kenyan star-filled sky, or leave it under the shelter of the thatched roof. Either way, your dramatically designed, handcrafted wooden raised platform, and ‘Mukokoteni’ or bed-on-wheels, are the hallmarks of Star Beds. Two Star Bed camps are showcased in Loisaba. The first is in kopje of rocks in an eastern valley overlooking the ‘Kiboko’ waterhole. The second set is located about 5 miles south on the banks of Ewaso N'giro River. Each platform is ensuite with shower, and situated for privacy. Walk, horseback, or ride a camel between two camps as part of Star Bed Expedition.
Loisaba STAR GAZING
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Boutique Hotels
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Indulge your senses with an opulent stay at one or more of Africa’s romantic boutique hotels. Delight in the privilege of travelling across this wildliferich continent. Trek through stunning landscapes— endless savannah, sun-dappled vineyards—then
return to sheer luxury. Taste exceptional menus featuring dishes from across this vast continent. Enjoy impeccable amenities and customised itineraries. Savour intimate and creatively designed lodgings. Revel in home-away-from-home
False Cape
THE LAST WORD INTIMATE HOTELS Be inspired by The Last Word and discover their treasure of hidden gem-like South Africa hotels. Family-owned, The Last Word is a stunning collection of private five-star intimate hotels, each one a singular experience sure to satisfy even the most travelled clientele. Discover gems set in locations along roads less travelled, with local characters caring for your every need. This is made more pleasurable by exacting high standards of their hospitality. Enjoy your time in two, three, or more of these intimate hotels to truly experience Cape Town. Imagine a few days enjoying magnificent mountain views amid tranquil gardens in Cape Town’s most exclusive suburbs Constantia and Bishopscourt. Allow romance to take hold on their beachfront at Long Beach, or sample a couple of gastronomic nights in South Africa’s gourmet capital Franschhoek. Indulge in the exciting diversity of Cape Town’s unparalleled style and elegance. Create your own fusion of Cape Town holiday experiences with The Last Word, and create a lasting travel memoir.
COLONA CASTLE Enchant yourself at Colona Castle, epicentre of Greater Cape Town’s False Bay coastline. Gaze at stunning views from this sophisticated retreat. Enjoy opulent furnishings, vintage antiques, and unique objets d’art at your perfect urban base camp, then explore Cape Town, Cape Peninsula, and Winelands. Worldclass golf and legendary beaches are topped by award-winning chefs. Eight luxury suites fill this castle.
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BOUTIQUE HOTELS
atmospheres in chic Cape Town or Jo’berg. Relish soothing spa treatments, play championship golf courses, or explore Cape Town’s quaint Victoria and Albert Waterfront quarter, with its elegant shops and friendly bistros.
1. The Last Word Intimate Hotels 2. Colona Castle 3. Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel 4. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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CAPE CADOGAN BOUTIQUE HOTEL Balance your love of architecture and design by staying at Cape Cadogan's rare recipe of historic exterior matched with classic modern bohemian interior. Cape Cadogan is a proudly-designated National Monument as well. Feel the utter charm and discerning character at the heart of Cape Town’s Kloof Street, among trendy eateries, quaint cafés, and stylish boutiques. Experience classic boutique hostelry in six standard and six luxury en-suite bedrooms, with a backdrop against Table Mountain sights. Savour your impeccable personal service from onsite family of staff tending to your every need while staying in the Mother City.
Cape Town
FAIRLAWNS BOUTIQUE HOTEL AND SPA Retreat to Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, an exclusive five-star sanctuary with 40 awardwinning suites, fully equipped gym, holistic Balinese spa, and delicious home-style dining. Feel the immediate benefits of the professional welcome and park-like setting, featuring huge mature trees, stunning rosebushes, and abundant birdlife. Reward yourself with onsite recipe of tranquil elegance, intimate service standard, and historic setting and proximity to sights and activities. Go horseback riding, play championship golf, hit the tennis or squash courts, or enjoy cultural visits to famous local museums.
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Gourmet Food and Wine
Indulge your passions for fine dining and great wines . Delight in exotic dishes devised by creative chefs using local ingredients and specialty items: quail marinated in rooibos tea, perhaps, or a spicy lamb tagine studded with dried fruits.
Explore Africa’s leading vineyards and sip awardwinning vintages in heritage wine cellars. Feast on traditional braai (barbeque) or savour a customised gastronomic tasting menu at a retreat. Across the continent, sample exotic tastes that
CONSTANTIA UITSIG COUNTRY HOTEL & SPA Stay on this amazing private wine estate in the shadow of Cape Town's Table Mountain. Enjoy the understated luxury of Constantia Uitsig Hotel, 20 minutes from the city. Sleep deeply in these tranquil surroundings, as charming service and heartfelt hospitality enhance a remarkable vineyard domain. Discover 16 garden rooms decorated with elegant simplicity, against their backdrop of sweeping views over exotic greenery. Take their exclusive ‘Les Aromes du Vin’ spa therapy, using aromatic components of fine wines. Join the boasting about three world-renowned restaurants serving awardwinning wines, and wine shop with tastings.
GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL The Cape is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful and satisfying holiday destinations. The luckier visitors stay at a remarkable hotel called Grande Roche. Set against a magnificent mountain backdrop in the heart of the Cape’s historic Winelands and situated just off the main street in the gracious town of Paarl, Grande Roche is an easy 45-minute drive from Cape Town and its international airport. Offering guests a range of 28 superbly fitted suites and rooms and an award-winning restaurant Bosmans, it is always a reluctant departure for guests visiting Grande Roche. Grand Roche looks forward to welcoming you.
GRANDE PROVENCE Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate wears her 300-year history with dignity. Discover this sweeping French Hugenot domain in beautiful Franschhoek Valley in the Western Cape. Linger for a moment while viewing lush vines spread across 47 acres, with gentle vistas over the valley floor, framed by rugged mountains beyond. Enjoy your pleasant one-hour drive from Cape Town through heartland South African wine country. Grande Provence Estate offers you a unique experience, from original cuisine to plush accommodations, plus some of South Africa’s finest contemporary art, boutique conference facilities, and award-winning wines. Feel the regal difference, as the Estate presents discerning clientele with The Owner’s Cottage, The Restaurant, The Winery, The Jonkershuis, The Gallery, and latest addition, The Shop. The Owner’s Cottage unveils luxurious en-suite ten-guest lodging in a charming complex of historically significant Cape Dutch structures. Reserve The Cottage exclusively for yourself, as a couple, or family unit.
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GOURMET FOOD AND WINE
1. Constantia Uitsig Country Hotel & Spa 2. Grande Roche Hotel 3. Grande Provence 4. Majeka House 5. Rijk's Country House 6. Le Quartier Français 7. La Residence
will quickly bewitch you: crayfish and coconut, plantain and piri piri. You may well discover new personal favourites in both the gourmet food and vintage wine domains.
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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MAJEKA HOUSE
RIJK'S COUNTRY HOUSE
Feel like being thoroughly fussed over and duly pampered? Then proceed directly to Majeka House, a gem of a boutique hotel, where you will delight in their original design and absolute luxury. Your perfect base to explore the vineyards is located on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, secreted on a private garden estate.
An easy 80-minute ride from Cape Town, Rijk’s Country House offers an elegant, family-friendly getaway, set in historic Tulbagh Valley on award-winning Rijk’s Wine Estate. Surrounded by incredible views of mountains and vineyards, the Cape Dutch property features 12 spacious luxury rooms, and three comfortable family suites with private terrace leading to lawns and pool. Three dining options boast delicious cuisine and windows for idyllic views.
Chrysalis 300-count bed linens lead the décor list of supreme amenities, joined by exotic woods, stellar wall art, Lavazza coffee makers, and multiple room styles offered. Dine divinely at onsite Makaron, winner of the prestigious 2011 Eat Out Award from Boschendal Style. Notice how the culinary team sources only the freshest produce available in the country, and together with gastronomic innovation, present a delectable dining experience. Chill out at Sanctuary Spa, where Majeka House provides you an extensive array of treatments to soothe and relax. A first for South Africa is the Himalayan Crystal Salt Bed, where you will experience the extraordinary healing benefits of the purest salt on earth.
LE QUARTIER FRANÇAIS Le Quartier Français is a 21-roomed exclusive boutique hotel situated in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley. Ride an easy 45 minutes out of Cape Town to find a complete culinary journey awaits you. Think sticky breakfast buns, casual allday meals on the terrace, or lazy lunch at renowned Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant on the family farm, Môreson, followed by the cuisine of award-winning Relais & Châteaux Grande Chef Margot Janse and her team.
LA RESIDENCE Indulge in La Residence, a romantic paradise filled with wonderful artwork and magnificent furniture. Enjoy eleven glamourous suites decorated in vibrant colours, and warm, personalised service creating an atmosphere of relaxation. Fresh garden produce allows memorable meals at The Terrace Room, while onsite pool, spa, gym, library, and wireless Internet add value. Five villas offer family lodging with private garden views and luxurious interiors.
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Old Colonial Charm
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Safari jackets and lazily spinning ceiling fans. Terraces overlooking the endless grasslands and icy cocktails at sundown. Live the daydream of an authentic African colonial station. Thousands of miles from Europe, marvel at priceless
Victorian antiques, Edwardian architecture and heirloom fabrics. Enjoy the attentions of superbly trained staff and linger over elegant dinners complemented by fine wines. Let Masai guides and trackers introduce you to Big Five wildlife
The River Club
COTTAR'S 1920 SAFARI CAMP Join the amazing Cottar Safari tradition, started in 1919, with over 90 years of continuous unparalleled Africa safari leadership. Return to the original spirit and essence of luxury and quality ‘safari’, reminiscent of a golden era of romance, professional guiding, adventure, and elegance. Explore legendary Masai Mara, an untouched concession bordering Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve, on Olderikesi Group Ranch. Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp guarantees you privacy, and abundance of wildlife. Be enchanted in one of ten spacious white canvas tents, luxuriously furnished, including four family units, and incorporating original safari antiques from the 1920s. If you require a more exclusive experience, Cottar’s recently opened its own luxury Mara homestead, Cottar’s Private House. Contemporary Africa in style, Cottar’s Private House rents only on an exclusive basis, presented with staff of eight, and featuring five ensuite bedrooms, large living room, dining room, and magnificent viewing deck.
THE RIVER CLUB Greet hippos on the swift-flowing Zambezi River, as impeccable hospitality prevails at The River Club. This Edwardian-style house makes you feel you are straddling two continents at once. Experience award-winning attention to detail, as ten luxury chalets spread over riverine vegetation, comprising luxurious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and innovations. Note originality stems from one side being open to the river, so uninterrupted vistas of the Zambezi ensue from bed and bathtub. The River Club is not a traditional safari camp, but elephants are seen in Zambezi National Park opposite, and hippos regularly seen and heard.
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OLD COLONIAL CHARM
viewing from hides and comfortable jeeps. Capture stunning digital images on a photo safari or on a hot-air balloon ride above savannahs and forests. Succumb to the magic of Africa.
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1. Cottar's 1920 Safari Camp 2. The River Club 3. &Beyond Kirkman's Kamp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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&BEYOND KIRKMAN'S KAMP &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp is set within one of the most prestigious game parks in South Africa, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, renowned for the best Big Five game viewing in the country, if not the world. Sharing an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park, animals roam freely between the 160,000 acre reserve and the neighbouring park. Excellent numbers of game and exceptional quality sightings combine with expert ranger and tracker teams for an outstanding wildlife experience. Thanks to a long history of sensitive game viewing practices, the game is mostly relaxed, allowing unsurpassed viewing and photographic opportunities. Along with the famous Big Five, guests are likely to track individually recognisable leopard and lion, as well as several clans of spotted hyena and various antelope species, from impala, common waterbuck and grey duiker to the greater kudu and bushbuck. Elephant, white rhino, giraffe and buffalo congregate at the waterholes, while hippo frolic in the rivers. Thrilling night game drives provide a glimpse of the nocturnal world of otherwise seldom encountered species like the white-tailed mongoose, African civet and large spotted genet. The spirit of this safari comes alive at historic &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp. Step back in time into the gracious early Transvaal atmosphere of this original 1920s homestead and marvel at the spectacular views of the unspoiled landscape that surrounds the Sand River from each of the 18 guest suites. Rolling lawns carve out a niche in a wild and tumbling wilderness that hosts memorable game viewing in one of the most renowned Big Five wildlife regions in the world. Spacious sitting, dining and bar areas contain mementoes of a time long past, while the untamed wilderness outside whispers a promise of adventures not to be forgotten. Activities include interpretive bush walks, birdwatching, and twice-daily game drives in open 4WD safari vehicles with expert guides and Shangaan trackers. &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp also offers Specialist Safaris, where focus is given to either birding, tracking, photography or walking.
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Romance
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Escape to a setting of incomparable natural beauty where you can indulge your romantic nature, calm your mind and restore your soul. Rekindle your connection in opulent surroundings, pampered with luxurious amenities and legendary service.
Flirt with a profusion of invigorating adventures or laze poolside in seclusion. Welcome the dawn from a hot-air balloon. Toast your relationship with champagne on a sugar-sand beach. Soothe your bodies with a massage for two. Spot elephants
CAPE GRACE Recharge on your own private quay at Cape Grace, while discovering the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Grace’s sense of place is emphasised by stylish interiors inspired by Cape Town’s heritage and unique floral kingdom. 17th century maritime history is reflected in silk drapes hand-scribed from original ship’s logbooks and carefully hand-painted tapestries and murals, while natural history is celebrated through beautiful botanical images. Your astounding views of Table Mountain or harbour are guaranteed from any of the 120 luxury rooms and suites. Enjoy fresh flowers, Charlotte Rhys toiletries, iPod station, and free wireless connectivity. Whatever your mood, the culinary staff serves you delicious fare: poolside, terrace, library, romantic room service, or at Signal Restaurant with tantalising cuisine and South Africa flavours. You decide your favourite: al-fresco dining at Bascule Whisky, or munchies at the Wine and Cocktail Bar. Your best view is found atop The Spa, with a menu of pleasing temptations and ancient techniques incorporating products of Africa. Cape Grace is dedicated to surpassing expectations, making your stay the most memorable ever.
JOY'S CAMP Joy’s Camp greets you on the site of Joy Adamson’s tented home in Shaba National Reserve, an elegant oasis in the arid lands of Samburu, Kenya. Remember Penny the leopard and heroine of Joy's last book? This was her home too. You overlook a large natural spring from here, where elephants and lions jostle for watering rights with herds of buffalo and rare desert species such as Grevy’s zebra. Joy's Camp boasts ten sumptuous canvas bedrooms, uniquely decorated with handmade glass, and vibrant nomadic fabrics. Results create a chic, sophisticated, and stylish camp. Each luxe tent has its own private verandahh, ideal for game viewing, as well as just relaxing, reading, and soaking up the truly wild environs offered by Shaba. The eastern corner of the Samburu eco-system, Shaba is a secluded idyll; an arid landscape dotted with lush springs and rocky river gorges. Joy’s Camp is the perfect choice, if you are interested in a glimpse of Kenya’s history, an authentic wildlife experience, and the true comfort of a luxury tented camp.
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ROMANCE
and lions on a thrilling safari—an unforgettable escapade you’ll be able to tell your grandchildren about. And sleep outdoors bathed in glittering moonlight, under a panorama of stars.
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1. Cape Grace 2. Joy's Camp 3. Garonga Safari Camp 4. Governors' IL Moran Camp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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GOVERNORS' IL MORAN CAMP If you are yearning for that extra luxury experience, Governors’ IL Moran Camp in Kenya delivers. Small and intimate, with a menu of special touches, you will easily understand why this is considered the premier camp in the Masai Mara by so many safari adventurers. Hidden under ancient trees along the winding banks of the Mara River, deep in the forest, you will delight in their ten luxuriously appointed tents, featuring super ‘king-size’ beds fashioned from ancient fallen olive trees, and Victorian-style baths. Relax as the personal guest of our onsite manager, who happily tends to traveller's every need. The camp is positioned right in the heart of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, with the best wildlife viewing right at your doorstep. During the day, meals are served on the banks of the Mara River under the giant evergreen trees. Dinner may be arranged by candlelight in the open dining tent or alfresco waterside. IL Moran Camp is your ideal camp for honeymooners and couples looking for a very special Africa safari experience.
GARONGA SAFARI CAMP Wake to very real game sounds at both Safari Camp and Little Garonga. Situated in the beautiful 54,000 acres private Makalali Conservancy, South Africa, the frequency of animal sightings will astound, such as baboons, lions, elephants trundling through camp, zebras, warthogs, giraffe, impala, and more. Personalised attention is the hallmark here, and an intimate bush experience ensues. The food is superb and there are many additional facilities and activities providing a 'Safari for the Soul'. These include a romantic 'Star Bath', picnics up a tree in summer, and the famous sleep-out experience. You are invited to enjoy all these complimentary activities. Recently Garonga has undergone an extensive eco-friendly upgrade, including solar power generating 40 per cent of the electricity; heater pumps replacing electrical geysers; a biogas system; and water filtration plant. The camps use Vivreau Water System for drinking, replacing all plastic bottled water. Indulge yourself with a visit to this owner-run camp!
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Spa and Wellness
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THE SAXON BOUTIQUE HOTEL, VILLAS & SPA The Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas and Spa, in Johannesburg, South Africa, prides itself on being the world’s leading boutique hotel, located in the tranquil suburb of Sandhurst with its tree-lined avenues, yet in the heart of the city for world class shopping and business access, and the gateway from which to explore the idyllic African bush and its wildlife. As a private guest, let the Saxon treat you to personalised, discreet service and unparalleled South African hospitality. The Saxon's contemporary African interior is light, airy and spacious, leaving a lasting impression of stately elegance interspersed with novel Eastern influences and African artefacts. Originally designed in 1990 as a private residence for Douw Steyn, one of South Africa's leading captains of commerce, the Saxon is a quiet retreat from the outside world that offers panoramic views over the indigenous gardens towards the city skyline beyond. Nelson Mandela chose these serene surroundings for editing his best-selling autobiography, A Long Walk to Freedom. Many discerning travellers, including royalty, statesmen, Nobel prize-winners and best-selling authors have returned time and again to experience the unequalled qualities for which the Saxon has gained worldwide renown. The crème de la crème is the recent addition of three Villas nestling in the lush indigenous gardens, comprising individual suites tastefully decorated with natural woods, silks and sustainable weaves. Each Villa has its own private terrace and heated plunge pool and two of the Villas also have a private spa suite. The three Villas add an additional 29 suites to the existing 25 suites. Villa One is a single storey with seven interconnecting Villa Suites in contemporary open-plan style. Villa Two and Three are double storey structures, each featuring eleven interconnecting Villa Suites. A raised skywalk leading to the main entrance of the Saxon offers intriguing treetop views over the gardens. Each Villa has a private lift to transfer guests from the underground parking garage.
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SPA AND WELLNESS
Revitalise your body, mind and spirit with soothing spa treatments in incomparable settings: the grasslands, rivers, beaches and luxury hotels of Africa. Close your eyes and inhale deeply: the lotions and balms applied to your world-weary skin
may be scented with ginger or jasmine, oleander or lime. Try rasul—an ancient Arabic bathing treatment combining mud, steam and dry heat that will leave your skin renewed. Regenerating facials, hydrotherapy baths, hot-stone massages,
salt exfoliations—all these treatments and many more are offered by a legion of skilled professionals to nourish your body and lull you into a state of blissful satisfaction.
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1. The Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas & Spa 2. Loisaba 3. Royal Malewane 4. The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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LOISABA
ROYAL MALEWANE
Loisaba, in Kenya, is a stunning 61,000 acre private wildlife conservancy, with incredible game viewing, variety of accommodations and activities like horse riding, night and day game drives, camel trekking, and lion tracking.
Marvel at the timeless magic of the Royal Malewane within Kruger National Park, South Africa. Savour extraordinary game viewing, distinguished cuisine, and award-winning spa. Stir the heart and thrill the senses in six luxurious suites, each with private pool, magnificent bathroom, and expert rangers and trackers inspiring your wild Africa voyage. Meals are truly a celebration, lingering in your memory. Feast under the stars, enraptured by the power of untamed surroundings. Luxury suites sleep up to four and guests enjoy private chefs, butlers, and game drives. Africa House is a child-friendly paradise for up to 12 guests, where you can relax in the most opulent and easygoing style.
Loisaba Lodge has seven en-suite bedrooms, and two private houses: Loisaba House and Cottage, presenting a more exclusive safari experience, being self-contained with its own swimming pool, staff, vehicle and guide. Push the limits beyond the perfect mix of wildlife viewing, impeccable service, and dreamy Africa locale, by submerging your senses in a soothing massage, or an indulgent wrap of blended local herbs overlooking the Laikipia Plateau.
THE TWELVE APOSTLES HOTEL AND SPA Stand at the edge of many worlds, between pristine Table Mountain National Park, crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and spectacle of Cape Town’s city lights. Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is part of the family-run Red Carnation Hotel Collection, and this stunning resort is the perfect South Africa oasis to rejuvenate, or celebrate in splendid luxury, living up to its ethos ‘No request too large, no detail too small’. World-class facilities include the award-winning ’Leading Spa in Africa’, with infinity pool overlooking the ocean, or rock pool with mountain views, and hydrotherapy bath cut into the quietude of the stone setting.
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Nairobi Luxe
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HOGMEAD Yes, those are resident warthogs you see wandering around the grounds at the eco-friendly luxe residence called Hogmead, located in the leafy green outskirts of Kenya’s capital city of Nairobi. Constructed on the frontier of land formerly owned by author Countess Karen von Blixen (Out of Africa fame), Hogmead’s ten-acre domain overlooks the legendary Hog Ranch of Peter Beard fame. In the foreground, meticulously maintained lawns extend towards the raw wilderness of the giraffe sanctuary. You may visit eight endangered Rothschild Giraffe at this sanctuary, and learn about the important work ongoing to protect and increase numbers of this rare species throughout Kenya. Hogmead’s six bedrooms reflect the style and unabashed luxury of a bygone colonial era. Enjoy their spectacular entrance with enormous gallery-style stairs welcoming you into the stunning hall, and notice the exceptionally comfortable sitting room and bar adjacent, perfectly suited for relaxing with drinks in front of the hand-carved limestone fireplace. Dinners are frequently served in a fabulous verandah, allowing you to absorb fully the exceptional natural environment around you. Four large bedrooms upstairs including the Mara Suite and two bedrooms downstairs, offer spacious and soothing accommodation, with en suite bathrooms outfitted with Egyptian cottons, sleek furnishings and super-plump pillows. Explore Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage, an easy fiveminute drive from Hogmead, plus equally close Nairobi National Park, one of the only national parks in the world bordering a capital city. Treat yourself to a visit at the Giraffe Centre, where many an hour can be enjoyed feeding these remarkable creatures by hand, and once exhausted from interacting with these giant-tongued treasures, you may venture to one of the fabulous restaurants and unique shops nearby. Within the grounds, the kitchen offers delicious fusion cuisine, using fresh organic produce grown on site, as well as the best ingredients sourced from farms around Nairobi.
AFRICA
NAIROBI LUXE
The capital of Kenya and one of the largest cities in East Africa, Nairobi has much to offer visitors—including giraffes grazing in a national park within sight of the city’s office towers. Ensconce yourself in a high-end hotel
in one of the growing number of leafy suburban neighbourhoods. Discover traditional colonial properties recently renovated to feature digital technologies, original art and hip spas. Dine privately on culinary specialties featuring fresh,
local products. Immerse yourself in the past at a museum devoted to Karen Blixen, author of Out of Africa. Discover one of Africa’s most dynamic, cosmopolitan metropolises.
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1. Hogmead
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Hogmead NAIROBI LUXE
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Luxury Lodges
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After travelling halfway around the world, you have finally arrived. It was worth the trip. Your historic luxury lodge is cleverly positioned to showcase the highlights of Africa’s wildlife and its panorama of rugged landscapes. By
day, track the Big Five—lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, rhinos and elephants—with personal safari guides, or canoe along lush waterways amid bathing hippos and crocs. As the sun sets, linger over an excellent meal. Stroll though
SAVANNA LODGE
TINGA PRIVATE GAME LODGE
Savanna traverses 24,000 acres of pristine South African bushveld, accompanied by highly experienced rangers and trackers, delivering exceptional safaris, with the emphasis on game viewing. Savanna has nine beautifully-appointed suites, ensuring your personal and intimate safari experience.
Expand your senses inside this amazing 14,000 acre private concession in the heart of the Kruger National Park, South Africa. Tinga offers you the rich history of the park, plus two luxurious lodges on the Sabie River, together with game drives in open land rovers.
Thatched Savanna Suite consists of two separate en-suite bedrooms, each with their own deck and plunge pool. These rooms lead you to a central, elegantly-furnished lounge, ideal for families or small groups desiring privacy and exclusivity.
Professional field rangers bring you within a few feet of Africa’s most-revered wild animals, and by allowing a maximum of only six guests per vehicle, create a truly exclusive and private affair for your Africa visit. A special magic is yours by sitting under the shade of the on-site Jackelbessie tree, where Mandela and de Klerk sat with founders of the new South Africa.
All Suites exude the epitome of elegance and comfort, highlighted by contemporary décor, combining colonial and classic mix of colours, fabrics, and textures. Suites also boast air-conditioning, fans, ensuite bathrooms, inside and outdoor showers, plus covered patios. Gourmet dining is an essential part of your Savanna experience, with local dishes adding spice to the delicious international fare. Dynamic menus are complemented with award-winning wines.
LION SANDS 1933 LODGE Your Africa history lesson lingers at 1933 Lodge, Lion Sands family home. This lodge sits on the original site where Guy Chalkley, great grandfather to the current More generation who run Lion Sands today, first recognised the wonder and heritage of this Sabi Sands region. In 2007, the More family built the lodge, their perfect South Africa bushveld retreat, now available to you. The lodge is family-orientated, but is equally well-suited to accommodate small groups in plush luxury and comfort. 1933 Lodge is an Africa dream home, where you are invited to live the Lion Sands legacy firsthand in this unique safari experience.
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LUXURY LODGES
fragrant gardens or sip a glass of vintage wine beside a starlit pool. Then drift off to sleep as the hypnotic sounds of Africa’s night—the hoot of an owl, the cries of hyenas—serenade you.
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1. Savanna Lodge 2. Tinga Private Game Lodge 3. Lion Sands 1933 Lodge 4. Londolozi Private Game Reserve 5. Shamwari Game Reserve 6. Singita Boudlers Lodge 7. Singita Ebony Lodge
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SINGITA BOULDERS LODGE Raw primordial African wilderness serves as the backdrop for Singita Boulders Reserve, luxuriously designed at the heart of ‘Big Five’ territory on the Sabi Sand Reserve. Unsurpassed luxury enthrals you to unwind amid this intimate safari experience. Breathtaking architecture, inspired by a boulder buttress, leads patrons to the luxurious lodge accommodating only 24 privileged guests. Sheer glass walls afford wrap-around wildlife views, while indoor/outdoor dining areas and a traditional boma present gourmet cuisine. Fully equipped gymnasium and spa offer perfect opportunities to relax and refresh between wildlife visits.
LONDOLOZI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Untamed, spectacular, and pulsing with the deep rhythms of the Africa bushveld, Londolozi is your quintessential experience of wildlands and game. Refurbished, and exclusively family-run, the discoveries of four generations and 30 years of ecotourism operations, is now distilled into a singular offering; your transcendent bushveld experience. Spectacular game viewing and leopard sightings are commonplace in this rich South Africa wonderland. Founder’s Camp, one of the lodges on-site, is dedicated to honour past guests and staff who made lodge possible, and the perfect child-friendly place to learn secrets about river life.
SINGITA EBONY LODGE Rare solitude and the ultimate safari luxury draws your every sense to Singita Ebony Lodge. Feel you are the proprietor inside thousands of protected acres, with sensational game viewing in an exclusive sanctuary adjoining Kruger National Park. Elegant comfort invites total relaxation. Singita Ebony offers 12 secluded suites with private swimming pools in the Sabi Sand Reserve. Traditional stone and thatch lodge features huge wooden viewing decks overlooking the Sand River, a well-stocked wine cellar, spa and gymnasium, plus an open boma within a majestic wilderness setting.
SHAMWARI GAME RESERVE World Travel Award-winning Shamwari Game Reserve, situated in one of the largest private game reserves in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa, 45-minutes from Port Elizabeth. Seven uniquely styled lodges offer a distinctive ambience against the backdrop of untamed Africa. Treat yourself to ultra-luxury of Bayethe Lodge, decorated in pastel colours and colonial refinement. Explore a wide range of activities here to guarantee your authentic Africa experience, including visits to working Wildlife Rehabilitation and Born Free Centres, 'Kids on Safari' Programme; bush walks, spa visits, stargazing, and game drives in the reserve.
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Barefoot Chic
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Run barefoot through the sands of Africa’s abundant beach destinations. Sunbathe on Zanzibar’s sugary beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Cast your line into a glittering lake in Malawi teeming
with record numbers of freshwater fish. Dive the colourful waters off Mozambique. Explore an oceanfront world few visitors have had the privilege to see. Get out on the water in myriad ways: snorkel, sail, fish, kayak, water ski or kite
BENGUERRA LODGE Bathe romantically in turquoise waters of a warm Mozambique channel at Benguerra Lodge, a unique island paradise. Barefoot along pristine white sand, delight in delicious fresh seafood, and be pampered by your personal host. Rich East African/Arabic atmosphere prevails throughout 2 elegant Cabanas, and 10 beautifully-appointed Casitas, each with private plunge pool, and outdoor showers. You might opt for exclusive Villa Cibuene, with 2 double rooms, private pool, and personal chef cooking meals. Feel lodgings merge naturally into the surrounding indigenous forest, only metres from unsurpassed scuba diving and beach views.
MATEMWE LODGE AND MATEMWE RETREAT Visit Zanzibar and your dream of authentic Africa becomes reality. Add Matemwe Lodge and smaller Matemwe Retreat, and access idyllic beaches, plus spectacular diving and snorkelling in Mnemba Atoll Marine Park. Matemwe embodies the quintessential beach experience. Relax in a friendly ambience, with attentive staff, soothing massages, swimming pools, diving, and sumptuous cuisine, fresh seafood being their specialty. Each of 12 spacious chalets (Main Lodge) and four luxury villas (Retreat) feature large verandahs overlooking the Indian Ocean. Main Lodge has two swimming pools, and Retreat villas feature intimate plunge pools.
KINONDO KWETU Come home to Ida and Filip Andersson’s ‘home away from home’ paradise, for those wanting a more personal experience on Kenya’s coast. Find this Swedish family’s tranquil private beach south of Diani, and you are in for homespun delights. Distanced from residential neighbours by rocky cliffs and endless beach, Kinondo Kwetu is classified as a ‘Kaya’ area (protected by the National Museum) due to its surrounding holy forests and sacred land. Kinondo Kwetu features a wide variety of comfortable and luxurious accommodations, ranging from cottages to suites, completely surrounded by green shady gardens, and just a few steps from the white sandy beach. In addition to relaxing in the sun and swimming in the Indian Ocean or the property's two swimming pools, Kinondo Kwetu offers an impressive selection of exciting activities. Choose from water sports, such as kite-surfing, deep-sea fishing, and scuba diving, to land-based activities, like game drives in the nearby Shimba Hills, horse riding and yoga sessions.
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surf. Or relax on land with an outdoor massage or gentle yoga session. Luxuriate on your private deck or beside your personal plunge pool in an opulent villa. Let Africa’s tropical soul enchant you.
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1. Benguerra Lodge 2. Matemwe Lodge and Matemwe Retreat 3. Kinondo Kwetu 4. Medjumbe Private Island 5. Azura On Beguerra Island 6. Omali Lodge Luxury Hotel
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
MEDJUMBE PRIVATE ISLAND
AZURA ON BENGUERRA ISLAND
Ultimate hedonistic pleasures await you at the exclusive island getaway of Medjumbe. Set like a jewel within the glittering Quirimbas Archipelago, Medjumbe is a romantic private island, measuring one kilometre by 500 metres. Medjumbe’s 13 beach chalets blend dreamily into the natural environment, while fronting dazzlingly white sands and translucent azure seas. Each thatched chalet offers airconditioned luxury, and a private plunge pool, while hammocks ensure essential respite.
Feel totally at ease on the deserted beaches of pure white sand, fronting dreamy turquoise seas. Azura on Benguerra Island in Mozambique, is the country’s first luxury eco-boutique retreat, and operates in partnership with local communities. Find 16 villas mere footsteps from the beach, and sporting individual plunge pools, and relaxation area.
Resort facilities are exclusive and subtle, designed to provide the privacy you are seeking, whether lounging around the pool, sipping cocktails in the tropical bar area, or relaxing in the loft with mesmerizing ocean view. Medjumbe’s pristine marine environment offers exceptional diving, with exclusive access to untouched coral reefs, and an astounding diversity of marine species found in the crystal clear waters. You may also delight in fishing, snorkelling, waterskiing, kayaking, or simply exploring the warm waters and private beaches.
Dreamy dives abound in the sea around Azura, offering magnificent scuba and snorkelling options, plus a chance to see the rare and protected dugong, in addition to dolphins, whales and turtles. Azura also provides exceptional fishing experiences for marlin, sailfish and tuna.
OMALI LODGE LUXURY HOTEL Expand your Africa experience by staying at Omali, meaning ‘ocean’ and ‘source of life’. Your perfect location to explore the wonders of the equatorial island of São Tomé, West Africa, this stylishly decorated boutique hotel unveils suites for honeymooners and families. Your facilities include air-conditioned units with private bathroom, international cuisine, terrace overlooking stunning beach, WiFi Internet, and steam rooms. Also included are tennis court and a swimming pool with poolside bar.
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Zanzibar
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It will be an image etched in your memory for the rest of your life: the moment your little one first spots a lion roaming free on the African savannah. The astonished smile, the tiny gasp, the delighted shouts—no camera could capture them better
than your mind will, forever. Add this image to a virtual scrapbook of other iconic scenes: tracking the footprints of wild animals with a seasoned guide, quad biking across a saltpan, visiting a local village to meet and play with African children.
SOMALISA CAMP Set your senses free inside Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, for here you will discover Somalisa Camp, a popular choice for guests seeking that unique safari with memories of majestic elephants. Six elegant tents wait for you to arrive, nestling under a canopy of acacias at the edge of an ancient seasonal flood plain. Somalisa Camp provides you with breathtaking views, luxurious accommodation, exceptional service, and delicious fresh cuisine.
CAMP KALAHARI Camp Kalahari in Botswana returns to the traditional safari style of the original Africa explorers. Ideal if you seek fun and action, without sacrificing comfort and style. Camp Kalahari accepts children of all ages, providing a memorable family safari. Your extensive activity menu here includes interacting with habituated meerkats, walking with Bushmen Guides, game drives to experience desert wildlife, visits to Chapman’s Baobab, bird watching, and night drives. Guests may explore the salt pans on quad-bikes during the dry season, while wet season invites you to delight in the incredible sights of the zebra and wildebeest migration.
ELSA'S KOPJE Remember Elsa the lioness? She was made famous by George and Joy Adamson’s iconic book and film ‘Born Free’. Elsa’s Kopje in Meru National Park, Kenya, is named after this lioness, and remains one of the most elegant lodges in Africa, with the most spectacular setting. Almost invisible as you approach on Mughwango Hill, Elsa's Kopje blends into rocky crags of the 'kopje' (small hill), built above George Adamson’s original camp-site. Cottages boast the ultimate ‘room-with-a-view’, uniquely designed, incorporating natural features of the rocky hillside, including elegantly appointed en-suite bathrooms. There is an open bar, lounge and dining room, plus an exceptionally inviting infinity pool, where you may view Meru Plains. Elsa’s Private House is an exclusive hideaway, set apart from the main lodge. Highlighted by two ensuite bedrooms and spacious living area, guests are led seamlessly outdoors to the private garden and swimming pool. Elsa’s Honeymoon Suite is a triple-level unit, including sitting room, en-suite bedroom, and breathtaking views.
AFRICA
FAMILY
At your superbly equipped safari lodge, enjoy children’s programmes, splash in an infinity pool, or simply relax in your traditional rondavel. Revel in a family holiday like no other.
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1. Somalisa Camp 2. Camp Kalahari 3. Elsa's Kopje 4. Kwando Safaris 5. Borana Lodge 6. Planet Baobab 7. Jaci's Lodges
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
KWANDO SAFARIS Kwando Safaris operates vintage desert to delta safaris in Botswana, and presents the ultimate Africa; one million acres of it. Unique and luxurious, these camps are professionally staffed, offering personalised service, together with a large menu of delights for your family. Children’s Africa safari magic starts before they are in-country, when a special parcel arrives about their safari activities. When your children do arrive, a select guide organises itineraries, and family safari packages include private safari vehicle with tracker. Kwando presents parents the opportunity to introduce children to a safe yet wild Africa.
PLANET BAOBAB Marvel at giant baobab trees surrounding Planet Baobab in Botswana, as it combines style with comfort, remaining true to its Africa inspiration. Guests will discover traditionally-styled lodgings, ensuite Kalanga Huts, offering facilities including the largest pool in the Kalahari, funky bar, and restaurant. Choose from onsite activities including guided bush walks, traditional cattle post and village outings, habituated meerkat treks, and expeditions to Nxai Pan. During the dry season, guests explore these salt pans on quad-bikes and sleep out under the stars. During the wet season, you will be astounded to watch the zebra and wildebeest migration.
BORANA LODGE Find fully hosted Borana, a family-owned eco-lodge, located in the vast Laikipia Plateau. Be enthralled by snow-tipped peaks and glaciers of Mount Kenya to the south, or the panorama of mountains and desert to the north. Borana provides guests an idyllic setting for any Africa experience. Organically constructed using local building materials and dead wood collected from the ranch, Borana is supremely comfortable and luxuriously in harmony with its surroundings. Explore wild and beautiful landscape by vehicle, horse, foot, or mountain bike, and get close to the endangered species of Africa’s wildlife in their own habitat.
JACI'S LODGES Jaci’s Lodges in the Medikwe Reserve, South Africa, provides the ideal family safari as well as introducing children of all ages to the wonders of the African bushveld. Jaci’s interactive and informative family safaris ensure all aspects of the wilderness are enjoyed and remembered long after you have returned home, and your children will understand why our planet is so unique and has to be treasured into the future! 'Jungle Drives' are provided during the day for children 4 years and younger. Parents are welcome to join, but they must behave like children. For an authentic and relaxing family safari Jaci’s will ensure your family safari is exceptional.
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Coastal Retreats
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Move seamlessly between worlds, from up-to-theminute interior chic to timeless outdoor vistas. Stroll from your opulent room or villa to a sparkling pool overlooking the endless ocean, all under a cloudless sky. Kick off your shoes and meander along sun-
dappled beaches. Revel in all that a world-class coastal resort can offer: superlative golf, elegant restaurants and lush, exotic gardens. Would a seaside yoga session or a private dinner conjured up by a personal chef make your secluded idyll complete?
PEZULA RESORT HOTEL AND SPA Soak up exquisite location on the Eastern Head of Knysna, South Africa, offering a quintessential mix of luxury, personal service, and stunning nature access. Each of 83 spacious suites in detached villas boasts patio or balcony, sumptuous bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, pantry kitchen, plush seating area and fireplace. Hike or horseback through the indigenous forests, or canoe along pristine Noetzie River to the beach, where you may picnic in secluded privacy. Play tennis, archery or pétanque, indulge in a 2011 award-winning spa treatment, submerge in indoor/outdoor pools, or play a round on Pezula’s Championship Golf Course.
THE OYSTER BOX Stand to inhale Africa's seaside splendour, while casting your gaze over Umhlanga’s prestigious beach-front, sweeping Indian Ocean views, and direct beach access. The New Oyster Box Beach House is one of South Africa’s most distinguished luxury holiday villas. Opulent options you may choose from include 86 individually-decorated Rooms, Luxury Suites, and Whole House Villa rentals. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and facilities. Villas boast their own private plunge pool, and overlook exotic tropical gardens. The Oyster Box will place its spell on you, and leave you with magical memories to last a lifetime.
BIRKENHEAD HOUSE Relish your cliff-top panorama from the Birkenhead House, thrilling guests with stunning ocean views and beach access in the Hermanus area, South Africa. Opulent contemporary stylings unfold throughout 11 luxurious suites. Enjoy complimentary transfers to town, or local activities like hiking, whale-watching from June to November, golf, and even shark-cage diving. Delicious international cuisine delights and satisfies guests, while Birkenhead Villa is the childfriendly alternative with 5 suites in classic white. Glamourous interiors, informal ambience, private chefs, and scenic location combine to create remarkable beach and ocean memories.
PRANA LODGE Delve into hedonistic pleasures at this luxury hideaway, 40 minutes from East London Airport, South Africa. Prana Lodge presents privacy, peace, and tranquillity, in 7 luxurious suites, each with private garden and plunge pool. Your serenity continues at Thai Wellness Centre and Spa, for special treatments, yoga, and meditation. Guests enjoy direct unspoiled beach access, plus exceptional cuisine served in an elegant dining room, or adjacent poolside pavilion.
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COASTAL RETREATS
Perhaps a whale-watching trip or a guided hike? Ask the caring staff to make it so. Cocooned in luxurious serenity, feel your cares evapourate under the warm African sun.
1. Pezula Resort Hotel and Spa 2. Prana Lodge 3. The Oyster Box 4. Birkenhead House 5. Molori Clifton 4, 5
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More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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MOLORI CLIFTON The latest spectacular custom-creation by international entrepreneur, hotelier, and renowned designer Kirk Lazarus, Molori Clifton is Cape Town’s only true luxurious beach retreat. Perched above one of the world’s most spectacular beaches, Molori Clifton, Lazarus’ second property in South Africa, hereby sets the luxury standard for Cape Town. Those in the know will recall Molori Safari Lodge revolutionised hospitality offerings in the game reserve industry. With Molori Clifton, Molori Great Barrier Reef, and Molori Beach House, Santa Monica, Molori Private Retreats defines a new category of hospitality: 'Private Beach Retreats for Exclusive Use.' This is the 'beyond-villa' experience, and with over 15 staff members, including a full-time Molori Team comprised of world-renowned chefs, housekeeping, butlers, spa therapists, chauffeurs, and Concierge desk, Molori Clifton offers you their exceptional vacation experience, plus the unique opportunity to reserve your own private boutique hotel for the length of your stay. Molori Clifton is comprised of three extraordinary Private Beach Retreats for exclusive use. ‘The Clifton’ with six suites lodging a maximum of 12 visitors, ‘The Beach House’ with three suites serving a maximum of six guests, and ‘The Villa Suite’ with three suites accommodating a maximum of six travellers. Each retreat boasts a private entrance, separated from other units, and combines unparalleled design, comfort and originality. Molori Clifton evokes the feeling of a luxurious home, with infinity pool, media room, and extensive menu of state-of-theart technologies. Each suite is king-bedded and maintains a unique décor design characterised by distinct furnishings and select artifacts sourced from around the globe. Showcasing the brand's signature open-air design aesthetic, Molori Clifton's custom retractable glass walls offer a seamless transition between the outdoors and interiors, capturing the spirit of the property's spectacular natural setting. Molori in the African language of Tswana means 'to dream'. Live out the reality of your dreams, your way, at Molori Clifton.
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Island Paradise
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Mention mythical names such as Zanzibar, Victoria Falls, Príncipe or the Seychelles, and your imagination will immediately conjure up azure waters, pristine beaches and wildlife-rich riverside forests. Along with these natural splendours, you
can savour elegant accommodations, divine foods and wines, and exceptional personal service. So why not discover an African island paradise? Immerse yourself in beautiful tropical landscapes, delight in once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventures
SINDABEZI ISLAND
MUMBO ISLAND CAMP
Sindabezi is almost hidden, an idyllic bush camp camouflaged on a private isle in Zambezi River, near Victoria Falls. Sleeping only ten guests, five romantic chalets are draped in swaths of dreamy fabrics, and raised over the water on wooden platforms. This island you will never forget is built from sustainable forests, and utilizes only renewable resources. You will be pleased to know neither expense nor imagination was spared in décor.
Float across the blue waters of Lake Malawi National Park to find the pristine and tropical Mumbo Island. Discover this is the first park in the world set aside for the protection of freshwater fish. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and innumerable species of cichlid fish, Mumbo Island Camp offers you premier freshwater scuba diving, local dhow boat trips, incomparable snorkelling, and quiet walks surrounded by miombo, fig, and baobab woodlands.
Lake Malawi
NORTH ISLAND WILDERNESS North Island is Wilderness Safaris’ island paradise in the Seychelles, a rare sanctuary for those seeking an unspoiled tropical haven, where guests and families will be inspired long after they depart. 11 exquisite hand-crafted villas provide exclusivity, location, service, and luxury facilities, including health spa, gymnasium, dive centre, swimming pool, pristine beaches, and chance to help restore flora, fauna, and wildlife with local community.
BOM BOM ISLAND RESORT Recharge your spirit at the exclusive Bom Bom Island Resort, secreted on the northern shore of tropical island Príncipe. A virtually undiscovered Atlantic Ocean paradise close to Gabon, find yourself in dense rainforest teeming with exotic birds, where whales sport playfully off unspoiled, deserted beaches, and crystal-clear waterfalls cascade into the azure blue ocean. Friendly residents and attentive staff are happy to prove Bom Bom is a true haven of luxury and calm. Offering two private beaches and the ultimate in comfortable and secluded accommodation, Bom Bom will create new energy for your body/mind/spirit.
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ISLAND PARADISE
and enjoy the ultimate in secluded vacation bliss. Allow caring staff to pamper and entertain you on a luxurious private island retreat. Reconnect with nature and energise every part of your being.
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1. Sindabezi Island 2. North Island Wilderness 3. Mumbo Island Camp 4. Bom Bom Island Resort
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
1. Product Name 2. Product Name 3. Product Name 4. Product Name 5. Product Name 6. Product Name 7. Product Name
North Island Wilderness ISLAND PARADISE
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Off The Beaten Track
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Just because you have travelled far from the crowds of tourists, you don’t have to do without luxurious accommodations, superb service and exclusive experiences. Gaze in wonder at endless horizons, rich waterways, immense desert
saltpans and thousands of animals thundering across plains. Sip sundowners around the dancing flames of a campfire, as you inhale deeply of the fresh night air and listen for the calls of nocturnal animals in the distance. Compiling your own
OLIVER'S CAMP Go deep into spectacular Tarangire National Park's southern end, to find Oliver`s Camp. Perhaps the best-kept secret for travellers seeking a real bush experience, this luxe camp is close to the animal-dense Silale Swamps. Environmentally friendly Oliver’s Camp is the place to enjoy a friendly atmosphere in a bush camp, making you feel in harmony with nature. Try exclusive activities such as walking and fly-camping, which give you authentic and private bush moments. Consisting of only ten beautifully appointed, spacious tents, intimacy is ensured. An attentive staff delivers an unforgettable experience for you.
SAND RIVERS SELOUS Set on a wide curve of the Rufiji River in Tanzania, Sand Rivers Selous is a well-loved, off-the-beaten-track location for safari buffs since the 1980s, when founder Richard Bonham first discovered this locale on one of his famous portered walking safaris. Your lodge offers only eight equipped rooms, but beautifully built, grand yet cosy, with open-fronted stone and thatch cottages overlooking the river, and amazing untamed beasts frequenting this riverside.
KALAHARI PLAINS CAMP Unlock your own wildlife treasures at Kalahari Plains Camp, overlooking an immense saltpan with endless horizons. Found in the northeastern part of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in Botswana, this legendary place has outstanding wildlife. Your camp comprises ten en-suite canvas units, with sleep-out areas to enjoy the stunning Africa skies. Game drives and San Bushman experiences provide you insights into unique terrain, culture, and wildlife.
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OL DONYO LODGE Imagine 275,000 acres of scenic Africa, where the wildlife can be found free and roaming, without tourists in mini-buses, or a set schedule. Consider travelling across archetypal East Africa savannah's in open 4x4 game drive vehicle, feeling the rhythm of Africa beneath your feet as you walk with expert trackers, or horseback riding with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. Delight in exploring this paradise, and then come home to your luxurious lodge, where a hot bath, outdoor shower, or private swimming pool await. Marvel at the inspiring views of wildlife thundering across the expansive plains. Savour delicious food, charming hosts, and professional service. Ol Donyo Lodge is central to this Africa paradise, located on slopes of the Chyulu Hills National Park, between Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks of southeast Kenya. Your location is unrivalled with full views of Mt Kilimanjaro, and perfect to relish the seasonal elephant migrations. The lodge is rich in history, passionate service, and is conservation conscious.
collection of African wilderness memories can be a life-changing experience, distinctly apart from holidaying amid scheduled itineraries, large resorts and bustling cities. Escape to an African sanctuary.
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1. Oliver's Camp 2. Sand Rivers Selous 3. Kalahari Plains Camp 4. Ol Donyo Lodge 5. Chada Katavi 6. Skeleton Coast Camp
CHADA KATAVI
SKELETON COAST CAMP
Katavi National Park remains one of the greatest wildlife experiences of Africa. Miles from anywhere, it has mythical status, while being close to the greatest density of mammals in any Tanzanian reserve. The last great herds of buffalo in East Africa amass in the millions nearby.
The Namibia Skeleton Coast Camp hails those rare intrepid explorers seeking the most remote experiences, nestled in one of the planet’s most inhospitable, yet hauntingly beautiful locations. It is stunningly wild, desolate environment, yet it supports a host of incredible wildlife adapted to conditions here. Activities at this all-inclusive camp include nature drives and walks, as many parts of this pristine setting you will only access by foot.
Rivers groan with hippopotamus, and crocodile, while everywhere you look creatures are grazing, bellowing, fighting, mating, or hunting. Days on safari in Katavi are wild beyond belief. Chada Katavi’s 12-bed camp boasts comfortable safari jeeps, personal guides, simple delicious food, and features flush toilets and bucket showers.
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
Skeleton Coast OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
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The fact that these opulent wilderness resorts are located in malaria-free places is just one delightful aspect of their magnetic appeal. Forget about toting along malaria pills; you can see the Big Five—and many other animals—without
worries. Simply relax and enjoy an unforgettable holiday. These upscale resorts offer quintessential comforts: delicious foods, vintage wines, soothing spa treatments and elite wildlife viewing opportunities. By day, marvel at cheetahs, rhinos
JACI'S TREE LODGE
HUNTER HOTELS
Jaci's Lodges offers personal attention to detail from their effervescent staff. Situated in the Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa. Jaci's Tree Lodge boasts eight tree-houses, each encompassing either a giant Tambotie or Leadwood tree and constructed on stilts, some a breathtaking four metres from the ground, these spacious trees houses allow you to enjoy your forest surrounds long ensuring the ultimate, luxurious forest hideaway.
Set within stunning South African locations, Hunter Hotels properties offer discerning visitors unforgettable memories. Rich in character, beautiful, opulent, with acute attention to detail, these acclaimed properties pamper with unobtrusive service excellence.
Complemented with daily game drives, conducted by knowledgeable and attentive guides your wildlife sightings and memories will be unforgettable. Fire cooked and starlit meals are heaven indeed Perfect for romantic safaris, weddings, and families.
Gracious Country House and Romantic Tsala Treetop Lodge are situated between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay on the famous Garden Route. Hunter Hotels also has two Big-five, malaria-free safari lodges; Gorah in the Addo Elephant National Park, and Marataba in the Marakele National Park. Tsala and Gorah are both members of legendary Paris-based Relais & Chateaux Collection.
MADIKWE SAFARI LODGE Situated on a hillside looking out over the 160,000 acre, malaria-free, Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa, bordering Botswana, Madikwe Safari Lodge’s 20 luxury suites blend seamlessly into the wildlife landscape. Graceful and open with grand volumes, suites are still homely and natural, featuring local artifacts and fabrics. Passionate and dedicated staff go out of their way to make your stay truly unique and memorable. Morning and evening safaris for families, children's activities such as bug CSI, dung tracking and galaxy viewing, wildlife drives, and romantic honeymoon celebrations are all part of the experience.
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and other magnificent creatures on thrilling game drives. By night, gather around a campfire to savour a superb meal, then unwind in an airy suite overlooking a stunning game reserve. 5 2
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1. Jaci's Tree Lodge 2. Hunter Hotels 3. Madikwe Safari Lodge 4. Tuningi Safari Lodge 5. Busmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat 6. Samara Private Game Reserve
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
TUNINGI SAFARI LODGE
SAMARA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
Child-friendly Tuningi Safari Lodge calls families and other travellers to inside South Africa’s 165,000-acre, malaria-free, Big-5 Madikwe Game Reserve. Luxurious private bedrooms with ensuite bathroom, come with AC, fans, fireplace, outdoor rock showers, wraparound decks, and rim-flow pool, overlook a wildlife watering hole. Game drives, bush walks, and divine food shared around a blazing outdoor fire, combine to create your wild Africa mementos.
You will likely never be the same after visiting the award-winning Samara Private Game Reserve on Africa’s Eastern Cape. Nestled in an amphitheatre of captivating mountains on 70,000 acres, wildlife roams freely across this vast landscape. Luxuriate inside three elegantly restored homesteads; Karoo Lodge, Mountain Retreat, and The Manor House. Providing plush accommodations for 38 guests, all suites are light, airy and air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms. A life-changing experience may await you; walk with cheetahs, witness re-birth of a unique piece of Africa, and experience a luxury safari in this malariafree region.
BUSHMANS KLOOF WILDERNESS RESERVE & WELLNESS RETREAT Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is an ecological oasis nestled at the foothills of Cederberg Mountains, 270 kilometres from Cape Town, South Africa. Discover ancient Bushman rock art, abundant flora, and wildlife galore in a malaria and predator-free environment. Each of 16 guest rooms and suites are located within a lush garden setting, offering calm, exclusivity, and complete privacy.
Samara Private Game Reserve MALARIA-FREE
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Style, Design and Interiors
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Expect breathtaking surroundings and inspired accommodations throughout Africa. Sip a steaming mug of fragrant coffee at dawn from a private deck overlooking a gorgeous waterway. Survey open savannahs from a room majestically suspended on
a cliff face. Marvel at stunning backdrops, inventive palettes and unique interiors that seem to bring the thrilling outdoors inside. Assume the leading edge of luxury, matched with rustic ambience. Choose from a three-level ocean-facing suite, a desert perch
SINGITA LEBOMBO LODGE Feel the pulse of Kruger National Park beat at Singita Lebombo Lodge, within a private wildlife concession. Offering you unsurpassed wilderness luxury: spectacular scenery and abundant wild species may momentarily camouflage Singita’s signature upscale style. Bold and dramatic, Singita Lebombo’s cutting-edge design compliments its spectacular, elevated position, open lofty spaces, and compelling ethos of touching the earth lightly. Overlooking N’wanetsi River, 15 suites boast uninterrupted views, with a magnetically beautiful cliffside lap pool, inviting open-air bar, and stylish living areas, gymnasium and wellness Spa.
JACK'S CAMP Jack’s Camp is an oasis of style and comfort in the middle of Botswana’s Kalahari Desert. Spectacular vistas, creative surprises, expert guiding, Old World safari styling, and superb cuisine, create an experience that is completely different to any other. A safari to Jack's Camp is the complete desert experience with two distinct seasons: During the wet season, you experience the incredible sight of the zebra and wildebeest Great Migration, and in dry season, explore the saltpans on quad-bikes. Activities include brown hyena treks, viewing habituated meerkats, walking with Bushmen Guides, and visits to Chapman’s Baobab.
BABYLONSTOREN History calls you to Babylonstoren in the Drakenskin Valley, South Africa, a lovely heritage estate, with layers of stories remaining at the core of this former working farm. Transformed into a unique country getaway with wellness centre, gardens, and swimming pool, cottages and suites echo iconic Cape Dutch whitewash style. Providing travellers deluxe comfort and an innovative restaurant, supplied by a magnificent garden, you will enjoy the ultimate privilege of picking your own fresh fruits and vegetables. Interiors are appropriately sparse, yet utterly luxurious, weaving modern basics with antique furnishings and unique designer décor touches.
THE OYSTER BAY HOTEL The Oyster Bay is ideally located in the centre of the Oyster Bay area of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, facing the ocean on Tourre Drive. The Oyster Bay has eight spacious ocean-facing suites with balconies situated on three floors. There is no lift, but the view from the upper level is worth the exertion of getting there, and ocean breezes are stronger the higher you go. Suites are elegantly furnished with either king or twin beds, and have plush lounge furnishings, as well as writing desks, and plasma screen televisions. Ensuite bathrooms are open-plan, and contain a free-standing bath and walk-through shower.
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surrounded by zebra and wildebeest, a completely equipped private island or a lovingly restored heritage estate. These African lodgings reflect the pinnacle of modern design artistry.
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1. Singita Lebombo Lodge 2. Babylonstoren 3. Jack's Camp 4. The Oyster Bay Hotel 5. Shambala Private Game Reserve
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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SHAMBALA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Applaud Shambala Private Game Reserve, covering almost 29,000 acres of natural landscape in South Africa's Limpopo Province, for its creation of the most favourable natural conditions for wildlife to thrive. If you are an enthusiastic film buff or photographer, you will quickly discover that exciting game sights abound in numerous locations here. Shambala is home to the Big Five; leopard, lion, elephant, black and white rhino, and buffalo. Add to this, numerous antelope species, including the endangered sable antelope, plus black impala, and tsessebe. Guests will also delight in viewing Cape mountain zebra, cheetah, spotted hyena, hippos, a unique population of Nile crocodiles, an abundance of birdlife and a wide variety of insect species. In this idyllic setting, Shambala Private Game Reserve epitomizes paradise on our fragile planet. Shambala weaves a special web of wilderness magic, allowing you to safely trek amongst numerous species of untamed wildlife, and enjoy this privileged memory long into the future Zulu Camp creates unforgettable experiences in the most breathtaking bushveld setting, with the river running through your domain. Zulu Camp's design, along the lines of a traditional African village, includes honeycomb-shaped thatched chalets built with natural materials, and separated by streams from a nearby river. On arrival, you are greeted at the Zulu Camp entrance, leading out onto the open lapa, or traditional gathering place. The main lodge offers a bistro area and bar adjacent to the rock pool overlooking the banks of the river. Guests enjoy a quiet moment of relaxation in the lounge area, reading a book or just taking in the views. An African dinner is served at two long wooden tables in the dining area. At Shambala your time is your own. You may choose to start the day with a game drive, followed by a leisurely breakfast, or a refreshing dip in the plunge pool. On cooler days, you may enjoy the cosy fireplace in the comfortable lounge setting. Every evening a camp-fire is lit in the open lapa area, for guests to sit back and take in the magnificence of the Africa sky.
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As birds begin to fill the air with song, awaken beneath cool cotton sheets in an elegant tent. Linger a few moments to enjoy your uninterrupted view of dawn breaking over the timeless savannah. Freshen up in your luxurious en-suite bath or
delightful outdoor shower. Today, adventure awaits. Let camp owners, guides and trackers— famous for their ability to lead guests to unrivalled outdoor encounters with untamed beasts—bring you to hidden viewing areas. Gasp with child-like
OL PEJETA BUSH CAMP Be astonished by your stay at Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, a traditional tented safari camp. Set on the banks of Ewaso Nyiro River, in 100,000 acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the largest rhino sanctuary in East Africa. It boasts the highest game-to-area ratio of any park or reserve in Kenya, making the quantity of wildlife you see consistently great throughout the year. Home to Alex and Diana Hunter, the only owner-managed bush camp in Laikipia, provides a unique safari experience, described by guests as ‘the real Africa’. Camp activities include game drives, and interactive conservation activities.
UMLANI Umlani Bushcamp offers its guests a classic safari camp experience in a mythical National Park. Umlani caters to the nature enthusiast who prefers the experience of simplicity, delicious meals, and spectacular game viewing. This idyllic camp is situated at the heart of the Timbavati Nature Reserve, part of greater Kruger National Park in South Africa. Your experience here is enhanced by knowing Umlani operates without electricity and the camp is lit by the romantic glow of oil lamps at night. Umlani's aim is to provide an exceptional quality, value for money, and exceed expectations.
NOT TEN’S BUSH CAMP Meet one of the original Africa bush camps; Notten’s, also a family-run lodge, and perhaps the best kept secret in the wilderness of Sabi Sand Game Reserve. You will sense the magical atmosphere here, and rendezvous with an authentic Africa safari experience. The lodge is the epitome of natural elegance, as each private suite with en-suite bathroom offers breathtaking views. In the designed absence of electric lighting, a surreal ambience is created in the ambient light of candles and lanterns. The massage deck is your peaceful setting for relaxing therapeutic treatments, and restful hours at the sparkling pool are a must.
BUSANGA BUSH CAMP Busanga Bush Camp is found at the very heart of Kafue National Park's Busanga Plains, Zambia. Camp accommodates eight guests in four well-appointed tents. The lounge area is under canvas, looking out over the plains, and your breakfast is often served here. Activities include game drives, walking safaris, and night drives, led by qualified guides in one of Zambia’s most diverse wildlife landscapes. Thanks to the rising mist from the floodplains as they dry up in winter, you may experience incredible sunrises and sunsets in spectacular hues of pink, gold, and red, blanketing the topography teeming with wildlife and bird species.
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pleasure when you spot elephants, rhinos, impalas, hippos, giraffes, cheetahs, lions or wildebeest. At night, under a starry sky, relive your day of “life list” experiences while enjoying fine cuisine and superb service.
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1. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp 2. Not ten's Bush Camp 3. Umlani 4. Busanga Bush Camp 5. Davison's Camp 6. Little Makalolo
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LITTLE MAKALOLO Little Makalolo lies in one of Hwange National Park’s best wildlife viewing areas in Zimbabwe. It offers privacy for guests who enjoy small camps and a sense of remoteness. The camp’s six spacious en-suite tents, with both indoor and outdoor showers, are nestled in the tree line. During siesta hours, guests can enjoy outstanding wildlife viewing at the log pile hide that overlooks the waterhole in front of camp. Activities centre on game drives in open Land Rovers and guided walks. The area’s large number of waterholes attracts game in both quantity and variety, especially in the winter months.
DAVISON'S CAMP Go deep inside Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park to the south-eastern Linkwasha Concession, to discover Davison's Camp, a premier wildlife viewing retreat. Discover this classic Africa tented camp, with lodgings tastefully hidden beneath a grove of false mopane trees, overlooking a waterhole and open plain. The tents and the separate main area, comprising a lounge, dining room, and open campfire area and pool, look out over a truly popular waterhole. Activities at Davison's Camp include game drives in open vehicles, or guided walks in the early mornings. During siesta hours, you may view wildlife arriving at the waterhole from your tent verandah or the main areas. Some lucky visitors have even had elephants visit the camp proper. Game viewing is productive year-round in the Linkwasha Concession, and your list of frequently encountered wildlife here includes large herds of elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, white rhino, spotted hyena, southern giraffe, sable, blue wildebeest, impala, common waterbuck and reedbuck.
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Indulge your lifelong dreams of African adventure with an extended stay in one of the continent’s perfectly situated classic camps. Delight in the full range of wildlife thrills under the expert care of the Maasai and other knowledgeable guides
who have spent their whole lives in this stunning wilderness. Keep your camera and binoculars ready to glimpse wildlife in their native habitats: floodplains, swamps and lagoons. Toast your fellow travellers with vintage wines and savour
CHEETAH PLAINS When Big-Five game viewing is your goal, proceed directly to Cheetah Plains, situated in wildlife-rich Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa. This lodge offers intimacy and exclusivity, accompanied by superb service and luxury accommodation. Cheetah Plains strives to embrace you with their contemporary ethnic design inside eight elegantly decorated chalets, nestled among indigenous gardens. Traditionally thatched lodgings blend seamlessly into the Africa bush, creating harmony between pampered relaxation and raw South Africa bushveld. En-suite rooms feature modern amenities. Safari heaven indeed
JOCK SAFARI LODGE Jock Safari Lodge beckons travellers from the Southern area of Kruger National Park, South Africa. Retreat to the confluence of Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers, halfway between Skukuza and Malelane. It is a 35-km drive to Skukuza airstrip, or 150km to the Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport. Jock Safari Lodge invites guests to stay in two luxury lodges steeped in settler history, reflecting elegant bygone eras. Activities offer daily game drives with guides, frogging, and walking safaris led by professional rangers delivering close encounters with Africa wildlife. Big-Five game viewing in the Kruger National Park reaches its zenith here.
SHUMBA CAMP Shumba Camp’s central location on Busanga Plains in Zambia, is home to hundreds of red lechwe, ubiquitous puku, stately roan, and the diminutive oribi. Your camp home is perfectly situated to take advantage of the plains game and predator concentrations of the Busanga Plains. Shumba means ‘lion’ and you will see large prides here, some with over 20 animals. Located within close proximity to permanent water, the camp allows easy access to a mix of seasonal and permanent floodplains. Birders will love watching over 500 species inflight here. Shumba Camp delivers six spacious luxury safari tents, filled with natural fabrics, furnishings and art, raised on wooden platforms with spectacular views of the surrounding Kafue National Park plains. Your rooms are large, en-suite with both indoor and outdoor showers. Dining and bar areas are elevated, allowing you vistas of each morning's sunrise, while dinners takes place here as well, or in the cosy boma, where local Zambian cultural elements may be shared with guests.
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authentic African dishes. Enjoy luxury amenities such as Egyptian bed linens, hot showers and private en-suite facilities. Create a trove of priceless African memories in a safari camp straight out of a classic novel.
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1. Cheetah Plains 2. Jock Safari Lodge 3. Shumba Camp 4. Elephant Pepper Camp 5. Chitabe Camp 6. Savuti Camp 7. Dumatau Camp
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CHITABE CAMP Play peekaboo with spectacular birdlife and wild game at Chitabe Camp, situated on a beautiful old tree-island in prime southeast Okavango Delta, Botswana. Eight spacious en-suite Meru-style tents give you a stellar point-of-view from their elevated wooden decks. Each tent boasts indoor and outdoor showers, and the central part of camp includes thatched dining area, bar and lounge leading onto open verandah. Raised wooden decks provide superb view across wilds of the floodplain here. Cool sanctuary in the heat of the day is found in a swimming pool, and activities include day and night game drives, nature walks, and supreme birding.
SAVUTI CAMP Thrill at exciting wildlife viewings captured from Savuti Camp’s isolated Botswana perch alongside Savute Channel in Linyanti Concession. You are downstream about 17 kilometres from Zibadianja Lagoon, the source of these waters.
ELEPHANT PEPPER CAMP Elephant Pepper Camp rewards you with a prime game viewing area inside the Masai Mara, in protected Mara North Conservancy, Kenya. At the same location for 20 years, your camp is one of the Masai Mara's original, very small and exclusive tented camp, located away from any other lodges, in the heart of the African bush. Nine spacious canvas tents, including one honeymoon tent, are comfortably furnished, featuring en-suite bathrooms, flush toilets, traditional safari showers, hammock, and verandah. Elephant Pepper Camp creates a truly authentic safari experience. Enjoy extended game drives in premier 4x4 game drive vehicles, to ensure you capture the most unique wildlife experience in this vast wilderness domain. Return to camp under the namesake Elephant Pepper trees nightly, where nothing rivals sitting around the camp-fire, enjoying a warming 'sundowner' to the symphony of your wild surroundings.
Face Savute Channel from any one of seven large raised tents, dressed with all comfort requirements, including ensuite bathrooms, plunge pool, sunken fire pit, and optimum seats to watch wildlife dramas unfold daily.
DUMATAU CAMP Watch hippos at Damu Tao Camp lagoon, under a lush grove of mangosteen trees in their private 125,000-acre concession. Located closest to the source of Botswana’s Savute Channel. Your drive along this waterway is the highlight of adventures in the western Linyanti Consession bordering Chobe National Park. Guests may view wildlife and many birds on day and night drives, or while nature walking and boating along the serene waters of Linyanti Marsh.
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Luxury Tented Camps SINGITA SABORA TENTED CAMP Delve into the rare and luxurious cocoon-like comfort of Singita Sabora Camp’s lavish dose of romance, intrigue, and excitement in wild Africa’s Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Your life-changing Tanzania safari experience is distinguished here by outstanding game viewing, highly skilled guides, exceptional design, décor, and exceptional international cuisine. Guest activities include tennis, game walks, and horseback game viewing, or winding down at the Spa with a body polish, massage, or skincare treatment. Amid the wild, expansive plains of the world-renowned Serengeti, Singita Sabora Tented Camp delivers two distinct worlds. This 1920-style explorer’s camp brings to mind a bygone era, reminiscent of lavish canvas sanctuaries. Meanwhile, the more contemporary side offers every modern amenity required in the wild. Private bathrooms, open-air showers, and viewing decks, lead to further opulent luxuries like antique mahogany chests, Persian rugs, silk curtains, and gorgeous fabrics and artwork. After an exhilarating game drive, you may sip sundowners on the deck gazing over the waterhole, or relax on a shaded daybed overlooking the plains. Chefs delight in creating delicious feasts using locally grown organic produce, coupled with vintage wines. Dining may take place beneath a lamp-lit acacia, or under the boughs of a large ‘sausage’ tree, with starlit skies above, and the distant chorus of nocturnal creatures providing you a pastoral symphony of Africa. Singita Sabora Tented Camp embodies the Singita Grumeti Reserves ethos of responsible wildlife conservation, combining low-impact tourism, with extensive community and conservation programmes. Throughout villages and homes in Tanzania, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, sustainable efforts are making progress towards protecting wildlife and the environment of Africa we all love so dearly. You may witness or hear evidence of this during your visit: water access programmes, anti-poaching unit, environmental education centre, carbon-offset programme, and more. Remember, there are only three lodges in this 350,000 acres of wilderness, to help make the area sustainable.
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Surrender to the irresistible allure of open savannah, lush floodplain or enchanted forest. Make Africa your home for spellbound days in a luxury tented camp, surrounded by rich décor. Enjoy a cup of tea in bed, chilled towels after a
hot safari and the professional anticipation of all your needs. Delight in luxurious bath products, silky linens and delicious cuisine. Learn about the flora and fauna from local guides who know this timeless landscape intimately. Feel your
heart beat to the music of the wild: the lion’s roar, the thunder of elephants, the distinctive hoopoe birdcall. Relax completely and let the ancient landscapes, exotic animals and rich cultures of Africa enthral you.
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1. Singita Sabora Tented Camp 2. Savute Elephant Camp, Chobe Nat'l Park 3. Zarafa Camp 4. Mara Plains Camp
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More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
SAVUTE ELEPHANT CAMP, CHOBE NAT'L PARK Perched on the banks of the now flowing Savute Channel, Botswana, Savute Elephant Camp is a spectacular base from which to explore this vast and exciting wildlife region. Drama unfolds here daily with interactions between elephants in high concentrations, large lion prides, and the many hyenas inhabiting this wild land. Savute is also unrivalled for its sightings of excellent predator-prey game interaction during the drier months of August to October.
ZARAFA CAMP Zarafa Camp, found inside 320,000 acre Selinda Reserve in Botswana, is synonymous with exclusivity, opulence, and wildlife. Zarafa Camp sits on an island in the floodplain of Zibadianja Lagoon, source of the Savute Channel. Positioned in the extreme eastern side of the Selinda Reserve, its southshore location is a prime wildlife area. Each of the camp’s four immense ‘Marquis’ tent-suites are raised up on wooden decking, and shaded by a canopy of African ebony and red ivory trees, each with uninterrupted views. Exploration of this vast area defies imagination, whether by foot, 4WD open game drive vehicle, or pontoon boat.
MARA PLAINS CAMP Listen to lions roar nearby while staying at Mara Plains Camp, set right in the heart of prime Africa predator country, inside the private 30,000 acre Olare Orok Conservancy. You are on the border of Masai Mara Game Reserve, where leopard regularly wander through camp, cheetahs stroll across the stunning savannah, and leases are newly forged with the Masai. This is an upscale, seven-roomed camp under canvas, on raised wooden decks with sweeping views across Kenya’s paradise. It is among the smallest and most personal camps in the Masai Mara region, and overlooks a small river alive with activity. You will happily avoid the high tourist density of the Masai Mara Game Reserve on this private reserve. Guests of Mara Plains Camp have access to over 100,000 acres of low-density vehicle tourism lands. Mara Plains offers you diverse activities, such as early morning, late afternoon, and night game drives, thrilling balloon safaris, authentic local village visits, and unrivaled access to the superior wildlife habitats.
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Under Canvas
From inside your canvas palace, you listen to remarkable sounds emanating from the African wilderness. You realise there is no camping like this anywhere else on earth, as those are the calls of elephants, lions, hippos and other game inside
the Maasai Mara, or Chobe, Hwange or Kruger national parks. Inhale the perfumes of exotic plants and flowering trees, mixed with the fragrance of unusual wood smoke trailing from your campfire. Watch the land come alive around you at dawn.
LINYANTI BUSH CAMP Linyanti unfolds into a small, luxurious, and intimate 12-bedded tent camp on the banks of the Linyanti Marsh. Hugging the western boundary of pristine Chobe National Park in Botswana, you are limited to small exclusive groups here, only those seeking highly personalised experiences away from crowds. Activities from camp include game drives, guided walks, spotlighting, and hides. Traditional ‘mokoro’ safaris, and fishing available on request.
Linyanti
RICHARD'S CAMP Meet pioneer traditions of hospitality and comfort at Richard’s Camp, on the open plains of Masai Mara. Secluded and intimate, this tented camp is a former home of Richard’s parents. Masai Mara offers spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, where animals roam freely, and can be seen in vast numbers. There are eight spacious tents furnished in comfortable safari style, with 24-hour solar lighting, plus en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets. After unrivalled game viewing with camp pro guides, enjoy hot showers and cocktails around the open campfire, followed by delicious three-course dinners under the canopy of stars.
SAILE TENTED CAMP
SOMALISA ACACIA
Saile Tented Camp is a small eight-bedded tent camp with luxury Meru-style canvas lodgings, sitting atop sandy banks of ancient Linyanti River. Camp is outfitted with en-suite toilet facilities, and safari bucket hot showers, and borders Chobe National Park. Camp caters to smaller groups or private family safaris. The primary focus here is on providing an intimate and comfortable way to experience Africa, in the most remote and wildest locations.
Positioned alongside famous Somalisa Camp within the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, this charming camp is designed with your small group or family in mind, and caters to an intimate gathering of only eight people. Consisting of one family unit and three twin-bedded tents with ensuite bathroom facilities, the simple but luxurious tents welcome visitors on slightly raise decks under the dappled canopy of a grove of acacia trees.
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The camp enjoys its own private views of a small waterhole from the main dining and lounge area, frequented by large herds of big game, including buffalo, elephant, kudu, zebra, giraffe and lion.
Sleep outdoors under a star-studded African sky. In between, allow yourself a secret smile. After all, you are enjoying all this in a setting of unmatched indulgence. It’s as far from “camping” as you can get and still be under canvas.
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1. Linyanti Bush Camp 2. Saile Tented Camp 3. Richard's Camp 4. Somalisa Acacia 5. Linyanti Ebony 6. Tanda Tula Safari Camp
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
Wildebeest Migration
LINYANTI EBONY
TANDA TULA SAFARI CAMP
Linyanti Ebony’s is designed for a small group or family, having one family unit with a private outdoor deck area, and three twin-bedded tents, all with en-suite bathrooms and flush toilets. Interiors at Linyanti Ebony are set to very high standards, combining the culture of Africa with colonial antiques.
Nestled in the heart of Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Tanda Tula is one of South Africa’s most luxurious tented bushcamps, offering you and yours an unforgettable wildlife experience, warm hospitality, and award-winning cuisine. Each of 12 luxury tents is private, surrounded by lush riverine forest, with private deck overlooking the riverbed where you will delight in watching the Big-Five.
You will be treated to exceptional cuisine throughout your stay, and activities conducted from camp include game drives, walking safaris, spot lighting, and hides. Mokoro safaris, and fishing are arranged on special request. Linyanti Ebony offers the ultimate in personalised and authentic safaris in Botswana.
Highly-skilled ranger and tracker teams guarantee you incredible wildlife game viewing. Tanda Tula also specialises in overnight walking safaris, where guests may be exposed to the stunning Africa wildlife on foot and in close proximity.
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Come home to eco-savvy, contemporary design in urban boutique hotels, beachfront suites and hip heritage properties across Africa. Delight in a dazzling display of cool shapes, retro and indigenous materials, and digital influences. Sip
cocktails in a sleek hotel bar glowing with neon, glass and brushed metals. Kick back in a stunning hotel room with accents of natural stone, wood and African art. Enjoy luxurious solitude surrounded by gardens in the chic Johannesburg
AFRICAN PRIDE TRIBE HOTEL Echoing the ultimate in Nairobi’s luxury lodgings, you find African Pride Tribe Hotel in the diplomatic district of the city. Drawing inspiration from rich African heritage, the artful interior of this hotel boasts exquisite crafts, art, and furnishings handpicked from around the continent. Each of their 137 rooms is designed to whisk you away from average mundane hotel notions, into a world of hip designs with details as their obvious emphasis.
POD CAMPS BAY Cool beyond question is POD Camps Bay. A true Africa original realised in a stunning set of décor elements, POD is both raw and yet polished. See naked Africa design timber dropping onto stone, shifting into glass, imbuing a sense of seaside sophistication so often attempted but so rarely achieved. 15 modern suites share the spoils of idyllic mountain and ocean views. Truly surprising is PODs’ proximity to the famous and ever-energised Camps Bay beachfront, just a few, light footsteps away. It is little wonder POD appears on Condé Nast Hot List 2011, and finds its place among the Tatler’s 101 Best Hotels in the World.
THE PEECH HOTEL Your eco-chic boutique address in Johannesburg, South Africa is The Peech Hotel, located in Melrose with 16 rooms spread over lush one-acre garden. Stylish bistro restaurant and boardroom continue unique blend of chic design with eco-friendly solutions, like solar water heating and grey water recycling. Awarded ‘Fair Trade in Tourism’ certification this hotel has been described as 'contemporary, edgy, and Afrocentric' by Condé Nast Traveller. Nominated as ‘South Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel’ at the World Travel Awards for the last four consecutive years, the nodes of Sandton, Rosebank, and Melrose Arch, are just a ten-minute drive away. AFRICA
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suburb of Melrose, a convivial atmosphere near Cape Town’s Victoria and Albert Waterfront, or upmarket shopping in the diplomatic quarter of Nairobi. Discover Africa’s cool design evolution— the essence of 21st-century style.
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1. African Pride Tribe Hotel 2. Pod Camps Bay 3. The Peech Hotel 4. The Grand Daddy Hotel 5. Blue Views
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
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THE GRAND DADDY HOTEL Witness reflections of the Mother City in the playfully luxurious Grand Daddy Hotel. Found at the vibrant hub of Cape Town, this award-winning project mirrors the talent, style, and creativity of both the city and the inspired team behind the concept. The Daddy is famous for its Airstream Rooftop Trailer Park, a novelty adventure on top of the hotel. Inside, 26 rooms and suites are subtle, stylish, and shimmering. Comforts of this hotel are made more delectable with clever local touches. Enjoy cocktails while you listen to tunes in ultra chic Daddy Cool Bar, or delicious dining at L'Apero.
BLUE VIEWS Designed for discerning guests, Blue Views consists of nine owner-managed houses and apartments, situated less than 100 metres from the secluded and private Bakoven Beach. Within easy walking distance to famous Camps Bay Beach, with trendy restaurants, shops, and sidewalk cafés, Blue Views boasts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7-bedroom luxury rental units, dressed with plush amenities and services. Panoramic views of Table Mountain grab your attention, while majestic ‘Twelve Apostles’ and Atlantic Ocean are only five minutes by car to Clifton Beach, and ten minutes to the city centre, with the Victoria & Albert Waterfront District.
V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Private Lodges
Spoil yourself with an intimate, exclusive escape in the company of your closest friends and family members. Cocoon in the sanctuary of a luxurious private lodge, and welcome an astonishing adventure each day. These accommodations
feature all the comforts of home—like fully equipped kitchens and relaxing living spaces— embellished with butler service, private plunge pools, exclusive game viewing platforms, and the use of four-wheel-drive vehicles and sleek boats.
LION SANDS GAME RESERVE Watch untamed nature remain as wild and untouched as it was centuries ago at Lion Sands Game Reseve, South Africa. One of the few remaining places like this you will find, the More family have been proud custodians of this pristine land for the past four generations. Share your truly personal Africa safari experience in legendary company. This family-owned and managed game lodge stretches along the Sabie River, which forms a natural boundary with the Kruger National Park. Abundant game and diverse vegetation thrive along these riverbanks, including the magnificent Big-Five and many other rare species. The family hallmark is creating a magical balance of preserving the pristine bushveld, and guiding you to indelible wildlife memories. Lion Sands offers guests two unique and luxurious lodges: River Lodge and Ivory Lodge. Each structure is distinct, with its own charm and history. What is common to both lodges however, is the individual service, privacy and exclusive luxury creating lasting memories for each guest who visits.
LUANGWA SAFARI HOUSE You will marvel at the original Afro design of Luangwa Safari House, a luxury lodge overlooking a lagoon with Chindeni Hills as backdrop. Wildlife, including elephants and giraffe, are regular visitors, and occasional animal kills are seen firsthand from the house. Your view is truly stunning, with one side of your lodgings open to the bush. Each of four bedrooms is large, stylish, and individual. Delicious fresh meals are served on a marble table inside the remarkable house, or out on the deck, accessed by raised walkway overlooking the waterhole. The plunge pool also views the lagoon, creating a dream-like experience.
KIBA POINT Kiba Point is the fabulous base for your private Selous Safari. This small eight-bed camp in Tanzania is booked on a totally exclusive basis only; you will not meet another soul beyond the family or friends you have brought with you, and your private lodge staff. Sharing the bush with some of Africa's greatest wildlife - is where you get the best of it all: a wealth of game on your doorstep; days of adventure and fun; and the privacy and pleasure of your own company. And though it may be hard to drag yourself away, by way of gentle persuasion you'll have your own safari guide, 4WD vehicles, and boats at your disposal.
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With an intimate group of congenial companions, share the untouched magic of wild landscapes like South Africa’s Kruger National Park, Zambia’s Luangwa Wafa, Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya.
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1. Lion Sands Game Reserve 2. Luangwa Safari House 3. Kiba Point 4. Singita Castleton Camp 5. Sirikoi 6. Vumubura Plains
More Information Visit our website for more photos and information for all the properties, tours and experiences featured.
VUMBURA PLAINS Unlike any safari lodging you have seen before, Vumbura Plains is a luxury camp situated in a private concession at the extreme north of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Each luxurious room you find is raised on wooden decks, and comprises a bedroom, lounge, shower, and full en-suite bathroom, plus outdoor shower. Open on three sides, the billowing sheer curtains between the various areas create the sense of a yacht floating through the floodplains. Vumbura Plains Camp offers both land and water activities, principally nature viewing in varied habitats in open 4WD vehicles, nature walks, ‘mokoro’ trips, and boat excursions.
SIRIKOI Indulge your dream of viewing wildlife at East Africa’s Sirikoi, a spectacular lodge on private land engulfed by Lewa Wildlife Conservancy on northern slopes of Mt. Kenya. Overlook a busy wildlife waterhole from underneath a grove of acacia tress, as Sirikoi’s location gives you astounding game viewing. Distant hills appear to the north, and Mt. Kenya provides a magnificent backdrop. You will enjoy sundowner drinks and stories, and top it all with delicious meals served under the stars next to a roaring fire. You may hear sounds of animals in camp late at night, but this is just a small part of this magical experience.
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Private Lodges
1. Molori Safari Lodge
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MOLORI SAFARI LODGE Molori, meaning ‘to dream’ in the Tswana language, is a one-ofa-kind lifestyle brand, delivering exceptional experiences, while enabling you to live out the reality of your dreams fully. Molori Safari Lodge is an ultra-exclusive, high design safari lodge located in 75,000-hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Originally built as the owner’s private retreat, this redesigned gem is now open to travellers. A 50-minute flight from Johannesburg, Molori Safari Lodge is accessible via Madikwe’s private airstrip, Molori Safari Lodge’s helipad, or by road transfer, offering guests maximum choice and privacy. Designed to feel like your second home, the lodge has five free-standing suites, each with private infinity pool, wooden decks, and heated bedrooms and bathroom floors for the colder months. Fireplaces make it so cosy, while indoor and outdoor showers, and fully retractable floor-to-ceiling glass walls, a Molori Private Retreats signature, prevail. The five suites consist of two breathtaking Presidential Suites, Metsi, welcoming two guests, and two-bedroom Molelo, which sleeps four. Two-bedroom Family Premiere Suite sleeps four guests, while two one-bedroom Premiere Suites also sleep four. Catering to well-heeled, discerning travellers in search of absolute privacy and relaxation, the Molori Safari Lodge focuses upon all your needs being anticipated. Global clients expect the very best, and find Molori Safari Lodge a retreat without pretense. Emmerse yourself in the essence of extraordinary personalised service, style, and comfort. It begins when you are greeted by Molori staff, continues through your guided game encounters, drives, and bush walks with South Africa’s award-winning rangers, and peaks when you enjoy an evening under the stars at Molori’s very own planetarium, a singular chance to see the planets through one of the world’s largest private telescopes. Watch it continue at cooking lessons, or a private dinner customised to your preferences by Molori’s world renowned chefs. You may agree, Molori creates everlasting lifealtering memories for you to enjoy long into the future.
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16 Dean Park Mews, Edinburgh, EH4 1ED Tel: +44 (0)131 315 2464 info@farsideafrica.com www.farsideafrica.com We also offer tailor-made holidays to Sri Lanka. Please visit www.farsidesrilanka.com for more details.