THE ULTIMATE TO DO LIST
AFRICA
Welcome... Our company was founded in 1998 by Australian native Corinne Goodman, Down Under Endeavours is a premier luxury travel agency staffed with well-respected experts in South Pacific and Africa locales, culture and history of this magnificent corner of the world. We started as a travel agency specializing only in Australia, but have continued to add locations in the South Pacific and Africa. We have worked hard to earn and maintain a sterling reputation in the luxury travel industry as travel agents making sure each and every client has an experience of a lifetime. Creating the perfect customized travel experience is an art that Down Under Endeavours has perfected, and it’s something that simply can’t be recreated from a brochure or a website. What makes us different from a traditional travel agency is that we offer unique experiences based on our own visits to the South Pacific and Africa and our other locations multiple times throughout the year, researching new locales, building relationships with our partners, and experiencing the local culture and history. Down Under Endeavours uses only the top travel providers in the luxury market, as each place is rich with cultural traditions, luxurious accommodations, exclusive adventures, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Our associate travel offices in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, Cook Islands, South Africa, East Africa, Mauritius, Seychelles, the Maldives and United Arab Emirates will be available to all travelers for 24-hour support and are always happy to assist in any way imaginable. With Down Under Endeavours, each day of your holiday will be tailored to your personal interests, your travel schedule, your energy level, and your travel preferences. Included in this brochure are some of our favorite destinations and experiences in Africa.
For further information, please visit our website at www.downunderendeavours.com or call 888-229-0082.
Contents Wildlife Experiences page 12
Connecting with Africa page 21
Safaris page 28
Landscapes page 40
02 Africa
Birds of Africa
12
Behind the Lens
13
Conservation
14
Primates
17
The Great Migration
18
Cultural Chic
21
Leading Safari Guides
24
Community
26
Mobile Expeditions
28
Safaris by Horse
30
Safaris by Water
32
Walking
36
Adrenalin and Adventure
37
Safari Chic
38
Coasts and Lakes
40
Desert and Dunes
41
Rivers and Waterways
42
Okavango Delta
44
Majestic Victoria Falls
46
Star Gazing
47
Spectacular Views
48
Contents Boutique Hotels
50
Wine and Golf
52
Gourmet Food
54
Old Colonial Charm
56
Romance
58
Spa and Wellness
60
Luxury Lodges
62
Barefoot Chic
66
Family
70
Coastal Retreat
72
Island Paradise
74
Off the Beaten Track
76
Malaria-Free
78
Style, Design and Interiors
80
Bush Camp
84
Traditional Safari Camps
86
Luxury Tented Camp
88
Private Lodges
90
Under Canvas
92
Cosmopolitan Chic
96
Indulgence page 50
Escape page 66
Lifestyle page 80
03 Africa
Welcome to Africa
Africa is one of the world’s truly untamed frontiers. It is beautiful and wild, rewarding and challenging, inspiring and humbling. It is the spirit of the people and the sounds of the bush that will remain in your heart forever, and that will keep you returning again and again. No other continent compares to the scale, variety, thrill, authenticity and rawness of the encounters you can experience. Where else on earth can you fall asleep to the sound of lions roaring, observe some of the planet’s most fascinating tribes or discover a landscape so diverse. Each country serves up experiences so unique and unparalleled that a life time of holidays can be found within the continent. East Africa is home to proud warriors, endless plains teeming with game, Africa’s highest mountain and the endangered mountain gorillas, whilst Southern Africa offers coastal scenery, big rivers, vast deserts, delta oases and prolific wildlife.
04 Africa
Top Ten African Experiences are: • Climb to the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro • Canoe the mighty Zambezi River • Wake up to giraffes at your window in Kenya • Track the endangered mountain gorilla in Rwanda • Soar over Namibia’s Skeleton Coast • Get personal with the Marine Big 5 in Hermanus • Soak up the rich history in Cape Town • Hang out with Meerkats on the Tswalu Kalahari • Scuba dive in Mozambique’s turquoise seas • Gallop with the Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania
A l b e r t Nil e
Kidepo Valley NP
Samburu NR
Vi
ia cto r Nile
Fort Portal
Lopé NP
Ivindo NP
Republic of the Congo
PNV Parc National Volcanes
Rwanda
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Loango NP
Gombe Stream NP
Masai Mara NR
L ak e Victoria
Serengeti NP
Arusha
Lake Manyara NP Tarangire NP
Kigoma
Tanzania
Tsavo East NP
DODOMA
Katavi NP
Lamu
Mt. Kilimanjaro Tsavo West NP
Saadani NP
Mahale Mountains NP
Meru NP
NAIROBI
Amboseli NP
Ngorongoro Crater
Burundi
Atlantic Ocean
Mt. Kenya
Queen Elizabeth NP
Bwindi Impenetrable NP
Gabon
Nanyuki
KAMPALA
LIBREVILLE
São Tomé and Príncipe
Kenya
Uganda
Equatorial Guinea
L ak e Tu r k an a
Mombasa
Zanzibar Dar es Salaam
Ruaha NP L ak e Tan g an yi k a
ngw
a
Selous GR
Nyika Plateau
Lua
L ak e B an g w e u l u
Vwaza Marsh
L ak e M al aw i
North Luangwa NP
Angola
Pemba
gw
a
LILONGWE
10000 Kilometers
Etosha NP D
a
m
Skeleton Coast NP
ar
al an
an
L ak e Kar i b a
zi
Waterberg Plateau Park
Omaruru
Gorongosa NP
Madagascar
Beira
Vilanculos
m
Botswana
po
Bazaruto Archipelago
po
Kruger NP
W at e r b e r g
Madikwe GR GABARONE Kgalagadi Transfrontier PRETORIA Park Johannesburg
Inhambane
MAPUTO
Swaziland
Fish River Canyon
Drakensburg Mountains
Lesotho Durban W
Winelands Garden Route
Plettenberg Bay
Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park
Indian Ocean
s
t
South Africa
CAPE TOWN
ilha de Moçambique
Francistown
Namib-Naukluft NP
Sossusvlei
Mt. Mulanje
Mozambique
Zimbabwe
WINDHOEK
Lüderitz
HARARE
Chobe Okavango NP Hwange NP Delta Moremi Nxai Bulawayo Pan NP Maun Matobo NP Makgadikgadi Pans GR Central Kalahari GR
Namibia
Matusadona NP
Livingstone Victoria Falls
Li
Swakopmund
d
Brandberg Mountain
Rundu
am L ak e C ah o r a B assa b
Mana Pools NP
i
500 Miles 500
be
Z
Kafue
ez
0
m
Caprivi Strip
Serra Cafema 250
LUSAKA
Za
Place Name
0
Busanga Plains Kafue NP
CAPITAL CITY Game Reserve (GR) National Park (NP) National Reserve (NR)
Malawi
Lower Zambezi NP Lu
Liuwa Plain NP
Country
Niassa GR
Mfuwe
South Luangwa NP
ga
Lu
zi
L ufu p
be
a
am
n
Z
Zambia
Likoma Island
il
d
C
oa
East London Port Elizabeth
05 Africa
Sample Package Inclusions: - - - - - - - -
1 night Eka Hotel 2 nights Ol Tukai, including meals 2 nights Plantation Lodge, including meals 2 nights Angata Migration Camp, including meals 1 night Kati Kati Tented Camp, including meals 3 nights Karen Bixen Camp, including meals Domestic Flights Seronera-Tarime & Migori-Masai Mara Vehicle based on a safari minivan driven by professional, English speaking driver guide, during transfers and game drives - All Park Entry fees | All local government taxes and levies - Soft drinks, beer and wine at Karen Bixen Camp
Great East African Migration – Stay in world famous National Parks and visit spectacular lodges and camps over 12 wonderful days on this exciting safari! You’ll have the opportunity to explore Amboseli, the Serengeti and the Masai Mara and witness one of natures most awe-inspiring events – the Great East African Migration. Day 1: Upon arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi you’ll have a short safari briefing before being transferred to your wonderful accommodations at Eka Hotel. Eka exudes luxury and is the perfect place to spend a night after a long flight. Enjoy outstanding food and wonderful service. 1
1. Kenya
Day 2: This morning begin your safari adventure to Amboseli National Park and Ol Tukai Lodge. Ol Tukai Lodge is nestled in the trees with gorgeous Mt. Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. Enjoy lunch, relax by the pool or explore the grounds. Late afternoon brings your first game drive followed by a delicious dinner. Day 3: The sunrise brings you an early morning game drive and views of Mt. Kilimanjaro in all its glory. Back at the lodge a full breakfast awaits you, with the rest of the day at your leisure. Activities you can enjoy include a bird walk, exploring the grounds, or just a lazy afternoon by the pool. Day 4: Your journey following the Great Migration continues, as you cross the border into Tanzania. Meet your driver guide and head to Plantation Lodge, which is ideally located near the Ngorongoro Conservation area. You’ll find Plantation Lodge, is the epitome of rest and relaxation. Day 5: Today you have the opportunity to take a full day tour of the Ngorongoro Crater, complete with a picnic lunch under the shade of a gorgeous acacia tree. If you’re lucky, you will spot many of the animals on your ‘must see list.’ Back at the lodge dinner will be prepared and ready for your arrival.
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Day 6: Today you’ll head out to the Serengeti, spending the night in the famous Serengeti National Park and Angata Migration Camp. Angata Migration Camp consists of 12 tents, allowing you to enjoy an intimate atmosphere. Upon arrival, enjoy an al fresco lunch under the trees before heading out for your first Serengeti game drive. End the day around a blazing campfire and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Day 7: After a bit of early morning game viewing, enjoy a lavish breakfast and a nature walk with a Masai guide. The afternoon is warm and made for leisure, followed by your end of day game drive. Day 8: Today you will move from your mobile camp to more permanent accommodations at Kati Kati Tented Camp. This camp offers comfortable accommodation allowing you to experience a real safari setting in the heart of the bush. Enjoy your last night in the Serengeti over a delicious meal. Day 9: Today take a short flight back to Kenya, and arrive at Masai Mara, where your luxurious accommodations await at Karen Blixen Camp. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the Mara River, and be entertained by the resident pod of hippos. Follow up lunch with your first Masai Mara game drive. Day 10: Watch the sunrise and enjoy morning snacks on your game drive. Return to camp and enjoy breakfast overlooking the river. Following breakfast, enjoy a walk with your camp guide and discover hidden treasures that lie in and around camp. As the evening cools off it’s time for another game drive. Day 11: As the sun rises you’ll head out into the Masai Mara National Reserve for a full day outing; breakfast and lunch will be picnic style. The Reserve is one of the most famous in the world, with an abundance of animals. After a long day, a scrumptious dinner waits for you back at camp. Day 12: After breakfast it’s time to begin your journey home. You’ll be transferred to the airstrip where you’ll catch a local flight back to Nairobi, and onward to your flight back to the states.
Sample Package Inclusions: - 4 nights stay Victoria & Alfred hotel, includes breakfasts. - 3 nights stay Motswari Private Game Reserve, includes all meals and local drinks - 2 daily game drives at Motswari Private Game Reserve - Guided daily Safari walks at Motswari Private Game Reserve - 1 night stay Protea Hotel Fire & Ice, includes breakfast - 2 nights stay at 4.5-star lodge in Victoria Falls, includes breakfasts and shuttles to/from Victoria Falls Town, rainforest, and the Falls. - 2 nights stay Ngoma Safari Lodge, includes meals and house beverages - All schedule Safari activities at Ngoma Safari Lodge - All transfers as mentioned in itinerary
Luxury South Africa Adventure – This South Africa and Victoria Falls vacation will have you experience the wonders of Cape Town, the wildlife of Kruger and the thrills and spills in Victoria Falls. Starting out in South Africa’s Mother City, Cape Town, before heading to Motswari Private Game Reserve in Phalaborwa for exciting bush adventures. Then spend the night in Johannesburg enjoying posh surroundings before heading off to the “Smoke That Thunders” – the captivating Victoria Falls. Day 1-4: Upon arrival at Johannesburg’s Tambo International Airport, you’ll be met and transferred and board your flight to Cape Town Airport. From here you’ll travel to your luxurious accommodations at the Victoria & Alfred Hotel. A Classic landmark on the V&A Waterfront, your hotel is conveniently positioned in the center of Cape Town, overlooking Table Mountain. Start your vacation off with a little relaxation by the swimming pool surrounded by lush private gardens and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Day 5-8: Kick things into gear, onwards to Motswari Private Game Reserve. Spend three, fully inclusive nights at your luxury accommodations within the Umbabat Natural Reserve. Spend your days exploring bush trails with trained guides and evenings in the wilderness, eating authentic open-air boma meals. Enjoy the unrivalled savannah views from the large wooden deck of your lodge. Day 9: Live like a rock star at the Protea Hotel Fire and Ice! Located smack-dab in the middle of Johannesburg, your hotel is located in the hot lifestyle precinct, Melrose Arch. Surrounded by galleries, museums and high-rises, the Protea Hotel Fire and Ice! is an experiential hotel, if ever there was one.
white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, you’ll find many activities and adventures awaiting you!
Day 11: Spend a portion of your afternoon touring the thundering Victoria Falls. A World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls is among the biggest and most aweinspiring waterfalls on the planet. The mists generated by the falls can be spotted from more than a dozen miles away. These mists are essential to sustaining the rainforest-like ecosystem adjacent to the falls and on the opposite cliff that faces them. There are many options and viewpoints amongst the falls, with a multitude of trail and bridge options. Day 12: After an adventurous time among the Vic Falls, continue on to your Ngoma Safari Lodge. Spend two stunning nights in your exclusive suite within the Chobe Forest Reserve. Soak up the breathtaking views from your accommodations, where you can gaze out onto the floodplain and Chobe River. For the early riser, join a guided game walk and find yourself amongst the plethora of nature and game; or after breakfast depart on a full day excursion! Starting off the day with a cruise on the Chobe River followed by a game drive in the Chobe National Park and a delicious picnic lunch. Keep an eye out for the diverse species of animals, including antelope, monkeys, baboons, lions, leopards, hyenas and more!
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1. South Africa
Day 14: Your final day dawns this morning, as you enjoy one final breakfast at the Ngoma Safari Lodge. You’ll then be transferred back to Johannesburg, to continue your journey home.
Day 10: Today you’ll be met by your driver and shuttled over to the Johannesburg Airport, where you’ll board your flight to Vic Falls Safari Lodge. Set high on a natural plateau, the lodge borders the Zambezi National Park and is just four kilometers from the thundering Victoria Falls, South Africa’s foremost attraction. From touring the falls or riding elephants on a bush trail, to adrenaline-filled
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.downunderendeavours.com
07 Africa
Sample Package Inclusions: - - - - - -
2 nights Amboseli Serena Hotel, including meals 2 nights Sweetwaters Tented Camp, including meals 1 night Flamingo Hill Tented Camp, including meals 2 nights Mara Serena, including meals 1-litre bottled mineral water per person per day whilst on safari Transportation by specially equipped non-air-conditioned 7-seater safari minivans with pop-up roofs - Professional Driver/Guide - Applicable local and government taxes on accommodation and transportation - En-route lunch at Mara Sarova
Classic Kenyan Safari – On this custom Kenya vacation, enjoy a classic Kenyan safari. Experience the best game viewing there is, and visit all the highlights – including Amboseli, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara.
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Day 1: Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, meet your driver guide and receive a short safari briefing. Head south towards Amboseli National Park, and the Amboseli Serena Hotel. Nestled in the trees overlooking the golden Savannah plains, your luxurious accommodations are the perfect place to stay while exploring this National Park. Enjoy a late lunch and relax with a cold ‘Tusker’ beer, until your game drive later this afternoon. Day 2: Start today with early and head out on a morning game drive. Early morning is when the local wildlife is most active, before the heat of the day sets in. After your early excursion enjoy a scrumptious breakfast/lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax and spend at your leisure. In the evening it’s time for another game drive
1. Kenya
08 Africa
Day 3: Early bird catches the worm, and today it’s time to head off North to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Sweetwaters Tented Camp. Arrive just in time for a late lunch and to get settled into your wonderful accommodations. At Sweetwaters you’ll have a whole different safari experience, sleep under canvas in the heart of the bush, in your luxury tent. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to the Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary and also an impressive rhino protection program. Explore this afternoon, followed by a scrumptious dinner. Day 4: Watch the sunrise outside your tent this morning and witness the conservancy come to life. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before spending the day at your leisure. Enjoy activities you may not have taken part in yesterday, or spend the afternoon lazy by the pool overlooking the camp’s waterhole. If you really feel like indulging, order a cocktail to full enjoy the view. Late afternoon brings another game drive before a delicious dinner. Day 5: Today is about adventure, as you head down the Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. Lake Nakuru is located in the center of the park; the
water here has a slight pink tinge, thanks to the thousands of resident flamingos! Flamingo Hill Tented Camp, situated in the heart of the park, offers comfortable accommodations in luxurious tents and excellent service, creating a perfect place to stay overnight. You’ll find excellent game viewing with loads of wildlife.
Day 6: Today you will be exploring the world renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Known for its amazing game viewing, the Masai Mara is sure to be full of adventure. Enjoy a quick lunch at the Mara Sarova Game Lodge before getting settled in your accommodations at Mara Serena. The afternoon is at your leisure, relax by the pool until the cool late afternoon temperatures set in, then it’s time for your first Mara game drive. Day 7: Your day starts off early as you head out on an early morning game drive, followed by a scrumptious breakfast with a gorgeous view over the Mara plains. The rest of today is at your leisure, explore the grounds with a guide and learn about the smaller members of the Mara eco-system, or hangout by the pool as you wait for the heat to subside until your next game drive. Day 8: Today you have the chance to explore the Mara from a different angle, as you soar above the plains and watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon (at an extra cost). A romantic and luxurious way to spend your last morning in the Mara, only to be followed by a champagne breakfast served in the bush. After your morning adventure, return to the lodge for a much-needed rest before the last game drive of your trip, followed by a delicious dinner. Day 9: After breakfast it’s time to return to Nairobi and catch your flight home to the states.
Sample Package Inclusions: - - - - - -
7 day car rental 3 nights in KwazuNatal 4 nights family focused Safari Lodge Twice daily game drives, nature walks, and laundry at Safari Lodge All meals, local beers, wine and spirits and Safar Lodge 24-hour local assistance for all your needs while traveling
Luxury Safari Family Vacation – This South Africa family vacation is seven days of fun in the sun, beaches, and wildlife while exploring the KwaZulu Natal region of South Africa. Swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and enjoy a thrilling luxury safari in the Phinda Resource Game Reserve, while viewing the country’s famous big game animals. This South Africa family vacation is exciting and educational for all. Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg, collect your rental car and drive to your destination – Thonga Beach Lodge, located on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast. Take a moment to settle into your sea view suite before you start exploring your gorgeous surroundings. Day 2-3: Thonga Beach Lodge is a wonderful place for your family to enjoy exciting outdoor activities including snorkeling, turtle tracking and scuba diving. Your resort is located near Lake Sibaya, just a short drive from your room. With 100km of untouched shoreline, Lake Sibaya is South Africa’s largest freshwater lake. The lake falls within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, now a World Heritage Site. Enjoy guided hikes, kayaking, and bird watching and connect with the wondrous nature that inhabits the area.
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1. South Africa
Day 4-6: After breakfast it’s off for a safari. Adventures like no other await your family, as you arrive at your accommodation. Set high on a hill, take in the remarkable views from your room. Parents can enjoy an afternoon siesta while the children participate in fun and informative activities under the watchful eyes of the rangers. From dusk ‘til dawn adventures await. In the mornings guides will share their knowledge with you while you keep an eye out for the Big Five. In the afternoon swim with dolphins and explore dive sites. Enjoy your evenings watching the sunset on a Mzinene Riverboat Cruise. Day 7: Drive back to Johannesburg where you can drop off your car and board your outbound flight.
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.downunderendeavours.com
09 Africa
Sample Package Inclusions: - - - - -
1 night Tarangire Sopa Lodge, includes lunch & dinner 2 nights Serengeti Sopa Lodge, includes meals 2 nights Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, includes meals Park entrance fees throughout All transfers and game viewing in custom built 4×4 Land Cruiser safari vehicle with professional English speaking driver guide - Safari briefing at beginning of tour - Government taxes and levies - 1 liter bottled water in the vehicle per person per day
Tanzania Highlights – Get ready for adventure and exploration! This itinerary includes all of Tanzania’s highlights in one safari. Safari by day and enjoy luxury and comfort by night at your 4-star lodge. Discover all that Tanzania has to offer as you explore the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. Day 1: Upon your arrival in Tanzania, you will be met by your driver guide in Arusha, followed by a short briefing on what to expect over the next week. Onward to your accommodations at Tarangire Sopa Lodge. Settle into your suite and enjoy the amazing views over the park. After lunch, enjoy a dip in the pool and relax before your first game drive of the tour. 1
1. Tanzania
10 Africa
Day 2: Start your day early as you head off after breakfast to world-renowned Serengeti National Park. This amazing park is home to an abundance of incredible wildlife, most famous for the Great Migration of wildebeest. Annually, herds of wildebeest cross over into the Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya. Spend the next two nights in the Serengeti Sopa Lodge. While eating a late lunch, enjoy stunning views overlooking the plains of the southwestern Serengeti. Then it’s time for your first game drive of the tour! Day 3: Wake early and enjoy the gorgeous sunrise over the Serengeti, before heading out on your morning game drive. Early morning is the best time for a game drive, as much of the local wildlife is at its most active in the cool morning temperatures. Return to the lodge for lunch and a relaxing afternoon before another game drive later in the day. Day 4: Today you head off for the Ngorongoro Crater and two nights at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge. The lodge is situated perfectly as home base, while you explore the Crater and everything it has to offer. Upon arrival, enjoy a late lunch and explore the grounds before heading out on your afternoon game drive. Dinner brings scrumptious cuisine and a chance for guests to share their stories.
Day 5: Today is your last day on safari; why not make the most of it by getting up with the sunrise and spending your morning on a game drive? Pack a picnic and enjoy breakfast in the bush before returning to the lodge for lunch. The rest of your day is at meant for relaxation. Soak up the views that surround you, then head out on your last game drive of the day. Day 6: After delicious breakfast, your safari comes to an end as you make your way back to Arusha. Here you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport where you’ll begin your journey home.
Sample Package Inclusions: - 8 nights stay at 4.5 star hotels, includes all breakfasts, some dinners, select activities, some transfers and other benefits like fresh fruit daily in suite - 3 nights stay at 5 star lodge on Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, includes all meals, local brand drinks, scheduled safaris, and complimentary childcare - Chauffer driven sidecar to Table Mountain, and 1 Hour Pirate Boat Cruise - Authentic Xhosa Lunch & Non-alcoholic ginger beer, Tram ticket, wine tasting at Rickety Bridge Dieu Donne and Grande Provence welcome drink - Barolomeu Diaz Museum Complex entry and a 1-hour Ostrich Farm Tour Cat Experience at Tenikwa - Guided tour at Monkeyland & Birds of Eden - Trunk-in-hand Elephant Experience at The Elephant Sanctuary
Cape, Garden Route & Kwandwe Family Adventure – Enjoy 11 adventure-filled nights in South Africa on a luxury tour of the Cape. Day 1: Welcome to Cape Town! You will be met at your aircraft and assisted onto your private transfer to your accommodation. Get settled into your room and enjoy the views of Table Mountain. This afternoon enjoy a brief drive around the city in a vintage World War II sidecar followed by a Cable Car ride up Table Mountain. After soaking up amazing views, head to the V&A Waterfront, where you’ll board an authentic Pirate ship for an afternoon cruise. Day 2: Embark on a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula. Take in the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, before joining a boat cruise to Seal Island. From here you’ll drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve via Chapman’s Peak where you’ll board a funicular to the top of the Peninsula for spectacular views over False Bay. Afterward, have lunch in the quaint seaside village of Kommetjie. Continue to Simonstown and visit the African Penguin breeding colony at Boulders Beach before heading back to your Cape Town Hotel. Day 3: Head to Stellenbosch for an insightful walking tour with your guide, where a Xhosa Mama will welcome you in her home and share some delicious local dishes. Head towards the picturesque village of Franschhoek, where you will board the Wine Tram discovering breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines and 300 years of history. Day 4: Onward to Hermanus where you will spend your days whale-watching, exploring or lounging about the lodge. Grootbos Garden Lodge offers a comprehensive program of fun activities for children, including adventures on the beach, treasure hunts and horseback rides. Other activities include hikes exploring archaeological caves, birding, and coastal and marine drives.
Day 7: After this morning’s activity, head towards the coast to Knysna-where you’ll stop for a light lunch. Board an afternoon ferry for a trip across the Knysna Lagoon to the Western Head, and onward to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Here you’ll meet your specialist guide and experience a wonderful family outing. Following your adventure, you’ll make your way over to the Plettenberg, to relax in your exclusive suite, and enjoy the sea and mountain views. Day 8: Today join your guide for a full exploration of the Crags area around Plettenberg Bay. You’ll meet furry felines at the Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre and experience the Birds of Eden – a world-class free flight bird sanctuary and one of the largest aviaries in the world. Monkey around in Monkeyland, where the monkeys are free to move about the forest. Round off the day with the chance to interact with a group of relaxed African elephants! Day 9: After breakfast, your journey from Plettenberg Bay to the Eastern Cape begins! On your five-hour drive make sure to soak up the picturesque landscape of the Eastern Cape. Arrive at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, where you’ll spend 3 nights in luxurious accommodations. Situated on the 22,000 hectare Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, in the heart of the malaria-free Eastern Cape, the lodge is set into the gently sloping hillside banks of the Great Fish River. Enjoy fresh farm cuisine prepared in an interactive, open-plan kitchen, as well as a spacious lounge, and airy dining and bar areas. While the adults head out on walks, drives and fishing excursions, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge also has extensive kiddies programs, providing hours of entertainment for children of all ages.
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1. South Africa
Day 12: After breakfast, it’s time to begin your journey home.
Day 6: Depart Hermanus and with a private guide, explore the Garden Routeincluding a stop in Mossel Bay to enjoy some lunch and explore the Bartolomeu Dias Museum complex. This afternoon, take a tour at an Ostrich Farm, where you may even have a chance to ride one! Afterward, make you way to Buffelsdrift Game Lodge for your stay in a luxury Waterfront Tent.
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.downunderendeavours.com
11 Africa
Birds of Africa Ready yourself for one of the world’s best land and air shows. See huge saddlebill storks while drifting through the reeds of the Okavango Delta, or marvel at kestrels, egrets, cranes and jewel-toned parrots.
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
Marataba Safari Lodge
- A captivating luxury safari paradise
- In this hidden place, discover Marataba, epitomising all that is Africa
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is situated on remote Xaxaba Island in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, among a web of waterways and lush vegetation, overlooking a lagoon that attracts a breathtaking variety of big game and exotic birds. Explore the region by local canoe, roam on foot or take to the air in an exhilarating helicopter flight above the magnificent Botswana landscape.
This is a mystical place at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains on the ancient trade route through southern Africa, which leads over raging rivers and across vast plains teeming with game.
A wonderful secluded retreat, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge combines the excitement of discovery with experiences of the real Africa to offer memorable safari holidays. This is the spirit of Belmond, through and through.
An intriguing mix of canvas and stone, Marataba’s 15 exotic tented suites are exquisitely furnished and decorated with a modern twist. Each supremely luxurious suite has its own private deck overlooking the sweeping plains and meandering river below. Lulled by the heartbeat of the bushveld, live your dreams of safari at Marataba, the place where the plains touch the mountains.
Kwando Kwara
Wilderness Safaris Kwetsani Camp
- An intimate camp with personalised service
- Unplug at remote Kwetsani Camp in the Okavango Delta, Botswana
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1. Belmond Eagle Island Lodge 2. Kwando Kwara 3. Marataba Safari Lodge 4. Wilderness Safaris Kwetsani Camp
12 Africa
Enjoy a relaxed, romantic camp setting on the edge of a river lagoon in the remote northern part of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The large, private Kwara concession, bordering the Moremi Reserve, is a magnificent wilderness area offering exceptional game and bird viewing. Both water and land activities take place year-round. The eight traditional safari-style tents on teak decks are built within a grove of ancient ebony trees. Resident hippos serenade guests year-round from the lagoon in front of the camp. Each tent has modern amenities, its own viewing deck and private ensuite facilities, including hot and cold showers, and flush toilets.
Watch an amazing variety of birds on an elongated island covered with palm, mangosteen and fig trees. Luxuriate at this intimate camp composed of five beautifully and recently renovated treehouse chalets, each with private facilities and artisanal décor. Feel the blissful effects of airy thatch, wood, glass and canvas. Enjoy your elevated perch, which offers astounding views of wildlife with a minimal eco footprint. Savour delicious food and wine under a thatched roof. Ride in traditional mokoros. And experience thrilling game drives – searching for lions on the wide floodplains or exploring nearby Hunda Island, famous for its leopards.
Behind the Lens 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.
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Alex Walker's Serian - Enjoy one of the greatest concentrations of mixed species wildlife, predators and prey in Africa The Serengeti eco-system of Kenya and Tanzania is best known for the ‘Great Migration’, when nearly two million wildebeest roam the plains. In this spectacular setting lies Alex Walker’s Serian, a collection of intimate bush camps. Among the most authentic in east Africa, they offer spirited style and wonderful flexibility. At camps positioned in the thick of the migratory routes, you can pop up and observe the migration year-round, escorted by seasoned guides. A succession of unforgettable encounters awaits you. The Masai Mara and Serengeti parks are preferred locations for serious photographers. Benefit from guaranteed exclusive use of excellent vehicles – your key to uncompromising adventures. As you explore these storied landscapes, your guides keen eyes are always searching for that defining image. Over the years, world-renowned photographers Frans Lanting, Warren Samuels, and Anup and Manoj Shah have honed their craft and run photographic workshops from Alex Walker camps.
1. Alex Walker's Serian
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Conservation Visiting African wildlife sanctuaries is a rare privilege. It is 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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Encounter Mara
Singita Sabi Sand
- Natural simplicity, elegance, and a personable and eco-friendly approach to safari lodging
- A thrilling wildlife experience in the heart of 'Big Five' territory
Encounter Mara is a classic safari camp located just north of the Masai Mara National Reserve in the Mara Naboisho Conservancy.
Set against an idyllic bushveld landscape in the game rich Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, Singita's founding lodges, Singita Ebony and Singita Boulders, embody a quintessentially African sense of style. Committed to preserving and sharing some of Africa's most pristine ecosystems, Singita has an enduring vision: to balance large-scale conservation, community-building and sophisticated hospitality.
Built from natural materials with a focus on conservation, Encounter Mara offers 12 custom-designed, spacious tents, positioned for privacy as well as optimal game viewing. Encounter Mara is situated in an area rich with wildlife, including a pride of 22 lions, several resident leopards and a wide range of plains animals; cheetah sightings are frequent. Guests may also take advantage of safari walks and night game drives allowed by the Mara Naboisho Conservancy.
Led by experienced field guides and game trackers, you may participate in early morning and evening spotlit game drives in an open Land Rover. In the Singita Boutique and Gallery, you can find beautiful keepsakes of your memorable safari.
De Hoop Nature Reserve
Singita Kruger National Park
- One of the jewels of the Western Cape, De Hoop is a superb stopover between Cape Town and Knysna
- Singita Kruger National Park lodges were built on the promise to 'touch the earth lightly'
The 36,000-hectare De Hoop Nature Reserve, a World Heritage-listed site in the Overberg region near the southern tip of Africa, is only a three-hour drive from Cape Town, South Africa.
This commitment shows in the way the lodges were built, how they operate, and how guests experience the wildlife and habitat. Every effort is made to respect and protect the area, so that it is conserved for future generations.
The reserve is a treasure trove of natural beauty, including its marine protected area, one of the largest in Africa. It is 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 lazing, picnics and swimming. De Hoop Nature Reserve offers a range of catered or self-catering cottages providing comfort and luxury.
In keeping with the philosophy of 'fewer beds in larger areas', there are just 21 suites in the entire 13,354-hectare private concession. This does not mean Singita has sacrificed anything in terms of the guest experience. Both Singita Lebombo Lodge and Singita Sweni Lodge offer excellent service, accommodations and cuisine, along with unforgettable experiences in a remote and pristine wildlife area.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Wilderness Safaris Ongava Lodge
- This soothing retreat from your busy lifestyle offers an authentic wildlife experience
- Kick back and enjoy a medley of wildlife on a small hill in Nambia’s Ongava Game Reserve
Explore the grandeur of the little Karoo at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, just three hours’ drive from Cape Town on renowned Route 62, one of the world’s longest wine routes.
Namibia's legendary Ongava Lodge is cleverly built, using local woods and thatch. Enjoy the remarkable sight of thirsty wildlife congregating at the nearby waterhole, where common visitors include rhinos, lions, kudus and zebras.
Sanbona is a 54,000-hectare reserve offering deluxe accommodation at three beautifully appointed lodges plus the seasonal Explorer Camp. Dwyka Lodge is a luxury safari tent experience set on a horseshoe riverine area. Gondwana Lodge boasts fun for families with a 'Kids on Safari' programme. Tilney Manor is steeped in settler history and old-world charm. Designed in true Karoo-Cape Georgian Manor style, it features six large bedrooms with outdoor showers.
The impeccable setting unfolds in 13 chalets and one family room, attractively built of spiralling branches, thatch and glass. Indigenous touches reflect the markings of zebras, giraffes and cheetahs, reminding guests of the abundant wildlife in adjacent Etosha National Park, Namibia's famous game viewing area. Delicious meals are served in the main dining area under thatch or on a sprawling deck under African stars.
Khwai Tented Camp Enjoy peaceful coexistence with nature at Khwai Tented Camp on the eastern border of Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve. Located on the River Khwai, the camp has the romance of mobility. As it has no permanent structures, it can be moved with little or no impact on the environment, leaving the wilderness just as it was before. Enjoy comfortable tents with beds and ensuite bathrooms, along with great food and personal service.
Wilderness Safaris Damaraland Camp One of Namibia’s prime wilderness regions is host to Damaraland Camp. Situated in the Huab River Valley, it boasts endless vistas across stark plains and ancient valleys, and a stunning Brandberg Mountain backdrop. The ten large, ensuite, adobe-style thatched units are raised off the ground. Each features a walk-in dressing area, as well as a large deck where you can sit and savour the desert.
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1. Encounter Mara 2. De Hoop Nature Reserve 3. Singita Sabi Sand 4. Singita Kruger National Park 5. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve 6. Khwai Tented Camp 7. Wilderness Safaris Damaraland Camp 8. Wilderness Safaris Ongava Lodge
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Conservation
Rubondo Island - Offering unrivalled access to a distinctive destination Rubondo Island Camp is the only camp on Rubondo Island, one of the largest island national parks in Africa. The pristine forest covering 80 per cent of its surface is home to such rare creatures as the wild chimpanzee, which was introduced here in the 1960s to benefit from this remote habitat. The exclusive camp includes just eight luxury cottages, all built by hand using traditional skills and local materials to ensure a light footprint on the island’s delicate ecosystem. Enjoy forest walks, game viewing, birding excursions, canoe trips, trekking through wild chimpanzee territory, catch-and-release fishing and other eco-friendly activities.
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Cheli & Peacock - One of the leading and longest established safari operators in Kenya, the home of safari
1. Cheli & Peacock 2. Rubondo Island 3. Lewa Safari Camp
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Cheli & Peacock offered ‘sustainable tourism’ long before it became fashionable. For almost 28 years, C&P has been an innovator and leader in conservation initiatives and community revenue-sharing projects. With most of Kenya’s spectacular wildlife living outside national parks, strong relationships with communities surrounding the parks are vital to Kenya’s future. Through the Cheli & Peacock Community Trust, C&P helps conserve biodiversity, and protect the natural and cultural heritage of the areas where it operates. The trust also helps protect the welfare of local communities by providing tangible, sustainable benefits from tourism through employment, capacity-building and community development projects. Cheli & Peacock also represents an award-winning collection of eight boutique safari camps and lodges, ‘The C&P Portfolio’. Each property has its own character and style, along with a common theme: small, unique and elegant properties with extraordinary environmental credentials.
Lewa Safari Camp - Famous for its large and successful rhino population, as well as the rest of the 'Big Five' Lewa Safari Camp has a stunning location within the world-renowned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya. The conservancy spans 25,090 hectares and is home to ten per cent of Kenya's black rhino population and the single largest population of Grevy's zebras in the world. Outstanding game viewing complements idyllic views of Mount Kenya and beyond. The 12 plush tents each feature a thatched roof, private veranda and full ensuite bathroom. The central areas have cool, beautiful gardens with a sunny deck and swimming pool to enjoy during the day. Cosy log fires in the lounge and dining room create a warm ambiance on chilly evenings.
Greystoke Mahale Camp The smell of jasmine pervades the slopes of Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains, while the pristine waters of Lake Tanganyika invite you to swim. Home to one of the world’s largest populations of chimpanzees, this remote camp makes visiting our forest cousins luxuriously possible. Later, bed down in a distinctive room constructed of locally sourced sustainable materials. Enjoy pampered seclusion amid beaches and mountain streams.
Nyungwe Forest Lodge - This spectacular Rwandan lodge combines service excellence with African hospitality Enjoy an African experience rich in local culture. Boasting 22 spacious villa rooms and two luxurious suites, Nyungwe Forest Lodge offers you supreme comfort and style among the rolling hills of Rwanda. The only deluxe lodge in Nyungwe National Park, Nyungwe lies in a tea plantation on the edge of the Nyungwe closed-canopy rainforest. Located in Rwanda’s mountainous southwest, this ancient rainforest dates back to the last Ice Age.
Primates Venture wide-eyed into untamed rainforests to marvel at gorilla or chimpanzee families playing, grooming or resting. The antics of our closest biological relatives will intrigue, delight and surprise you.
The lodge boasts a bistro, outdoor heated pool, boma for al fresco dining, restaurant, tea lounge and bar, relaxation retreat with Jacuzzi, fitness centre, and Wi-Fi.
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Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge - Dramatic, thrilling and poignant – the wildlife experience of a lifetime
1. Greystoke Mahale Camp 2. Nyungwe Forest Lodge 3. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
The lodge is 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. The eight guest cottages and the main lodge building have been beautifully constructed and appointed, and the lodge is a wonderful base from which to explore this unique and fascinating corner of Africa. The lodge is 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.
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The Great Migration Mark your calendar – you will not 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, shimmering herds of wildebeest, gazelles and zebras will magnetically attract your gaze. Throughout the year, watch for the other wild residents, too, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, elephants, waterbound hippos and crocodiles, plus clouds of native birds. Treat yourself to a thunderous migration. It will be hypnotic, memorable and possibly life changing.
Serengeti Safari Camp
Sayari Camp
- One of the first mobile camps in northern Tanzania
- This is the Africa you have always dreamed of
Serengeti Safari Camp was designed to follow the wildebeest migration through Serengeti National Park. Each year, this little camp casts off and begins its own odyssey, moving every couple of months along a route that the herds have travelled for hundreds of years. It delivers a superlative experience of extraordinary wildlife, without damaging the inspiring landscape.
Located in the remote and exclusive northern Serengeti, the award-winning Sayari Camp is a superb place to witness one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the planet: the tumultuous great migration of wildebeest crossing the Mara River in Tanzania.
The intimate camp is effortlessly comfortable. It offers just six large walk-in Meru tents, each with a dressing area and an ensuite bathroom. The main dining tent sits in the middle of the line of tents, with a fireplace in front and a separate library and bar tent nearby.
Sayari Camp is home to staggering numbers of big cats, too, plus giraffes, elephants and rhinos, often viewable from your luxurious king-size bed or personal veranda. The 15 wood-floored tents with ensuite, double sink, shower and stunning bath provide a private view of the Serengeti. After wildlife treks, enjoy the infinity pool, fireplace, delicious cuisine, drinks and impeccable service.
Lamai Serengeti
Olakira Camp
- A rich migration experience in a remote wilderness
- The intimate Olakira Camp brings the wildlife of the Serengeti to your doorstep
In a prime location overlooking the Serengeti in Tanzania, discover Lamai Serengeti, tucked among the red rocks of Kogakuria Kopje. Admire vast landscapes, not far from where wildebeest cross the Mara River. Between late July and October, you will find the great migration on your doorstep.
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At Lamai Serengeti, 12 luxury rooms are split into two buildings, carefully positioned for maximum wildlife exposure and minimum eco-footprint. Constructed using natural canvas, plaster and wood poles, these luxuriously equipped units provide you with a superb wilderness experience. One of the best ways to take in the Serengeti is from your veranda.
As the great migration of wildebeest and zebras thunders across the expansive plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania, the classic mobile Olakira Camp follows, providing you with an exceptional bush experience. This nomadic East African safari camp offers you a delightful balance of authenticity and luxury. High-quality tent accommodations feature king-size beds and ensuite bathrooms. Savour stunning food around the campfire under the star-filled expanse of a velvety Serengeti sky. Explore the always game rich surrounds in specially adapted vehicles, with some of the best guides working in this ecosystem.
Serian Serengeti - Settle your mobile camp at close quarters to this great wilderness show Immense panoramas awash with hordes of wildebeest brim with drama. Newborn calves delight in their gangly mobility, while huge herds swarm the riverbanks nosing out suitable crossings. Vast concentrations of wildebeest mix with other ungulates, while lions, cheetahs and leopards pursue and delight in the smorgasbord of nomadic animals. From June to November, Serian's Serengeti North lies in a hidden valley alongside the sinuous Mara River. It decamps south to the shortgrass plains of Serian's Serengeti South from December to April, the birthing season, when the whole area comes alive with thousands of newborn wildebeest.
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Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Serengeti - Stay in the heart of one of Africa’s best-known wildlife sanctuaries: Serengeti National Park, part of Tanzania’s famed Northern Circuit
Saruni Mara - One of the most exciting wildlife sanctuaries in Africa Saruni is an eco-friendly and community-friendly deluxe safari lodge in the Masai Mara. Located inside the Masai-owned Mara North Conservancy, it offers the thrill of a real African adventure coupled with the highest standards of style and comfort. With accommodation for only 14 guests in one stunning family villa and five cottages, Saruni is set in a remote valley of forests and hills, overlooking the open savannah. On safari, you drive or walk among elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras and endless other species of wild animals, accompanied in total safety by professional guides. Discover the magic of old Africa.
Considered by many to be among the best wildlife areas in Africa, the Serengeti is one of Tanzania’s most famous natural wonders. The lodge has a total of 77 guestrooms. Just 12 of these are suites with plunge pools, while five are freestanding villas, each with a private infinity pool. Each room has an elevated openair terrace providing direct views over the Serengeti, giving guests a private and intimate connection to the nearby wildlife and inspirational landscape. Guests have easy access to the Discovery Centre, which features a museumquality exhibition space and lecture hall to enhance interpretation of this stunning wilderness and its wildlife, people and culture. Other key facilities include a spa, fitness centre, games room and library. A luxurious retreat within an unspoilt wilderness, the lodge is particularly well suited to first-time safari travellers, extended families and groups.
1. Serengeti Safari Camp 2. Lamai Serengeti 3. Sayari Camp 4. Olakira Camp 5. Serian Serengeti 6. Saruni Mara 7. Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Serengeti
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The Great Migration
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Sala's Camp - One of the first camps in the Masai Mara to see the migration
1. Sala’s Camp
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Sala’s Camp has the good fortune to be located at the convergence of two rivers, in the heart of the Masai Mara. This secluded spot offers tranquillity and tremendous views over the Sand River toward Tanzania and the Serengeti. During the Great Wildebeest Migration from July through September, Sala’s Camp is extremely well located, as many of the animals move back from the Serengeti in search of lush grasslands in the Mara. The game viewing during this time is exceptional, with dramatic river crossings and plentiful predators. Sala’s upholds a long tradition of safari under canvas with stylish but simple accommodation reminiscent of early mobile safaris. A warm camp atmosphere and Masai-guided activities ensure an unforgettable safari. The camp itself is made up of seven tents: six twin tents and one big honeymoon suite or family tent. All of them are extremely comfortable, with large beds, soft white linens, hanging cupboards, a sink area and an ensuite bathroom with flushing toilet facilities. All this means that guests can enjoy the original under-canvas experience with some modern comforts, such as electricity and hot running water.
Before and after game drives, guests convene in the lovely mess tent, with its beautiful lawn area, daybeds where you can spend some time with a good book, bar and dining table, which glimmers with candles at night. As the sun sets, the campfire is lit, drinks are poured and food is served. While guests enjoy outstanding dinners – produced, amazingly, from a bush kitchen – tents are closed up, beds turned down and hot water bottles tucked under the covers. Every detail is considered at this truly special camp inside the famous Mara Reserve.
Cultural Chic Immerse yourself in the scents, tastes and sounds of Africa as you revel in spectacular luxury. Visit local markets, go bushwalking or join a thrilling game drive, then indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or a refreshing swim.
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Sasaab - Majestically situated on the high banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, Sasaab offers an alluring blend of wilderness, responsible tourism and refined luxury Sasaab commands breathtaking views across the arid landscape of the Northern Frontier District toward the jagged peak of Mount Kenya and offers a truly exceptional safari experience in an area renowned for its varied species. Elegant and chic, Sasaab comprises nine suites with huge thatched roofs and canvas sides, along with a main pool area, spa, stunning central living space and viewing deck. Each room is bright and open with over 100 square metres of floor space. Private plunge pools offer an invigorating break from the heat of the day. Attention to detail is evident throughout the lodge. Incredible food and service are complemented by personal touches, such as watercolour sets (to enable you to capture the view in paint) and yoga mats in all rooms. The main infinity pool has a welcoming pizza bar, perfect for gathering round at lunchtime. The lodge's beautiful wilderness spa, Spasaab, offers an array of indulgences. This purposebuilt, state-of-the-art haven of peace and serenity provides modern beauty and health treatments using Liz Earle skin care products.
Situated in the midst of a community conservancy, rich in Samburu culture and traditions, Sasaab was built with wildlife conservation and preservation of the environment foremost in mind. The lodge has been recognised for its community work and holds a gold eco rating. Activities include bushwalks, camel rides, fly-camping, game drives, al fresco dining, village visits, market visits, and opportunities to become involved with the resident community and local conservation projects. Children of all ages are welcome at Sasaab. The local Samburu guides speak excellent English and are delighted to take children under their wing to teach them about Samburu traditions, such as making a bow and arrow, or making a toothbrush out of a toothbrush tree.
1. Sasaab
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Leading Safari Guides Relax – your dream safari is in good hands. Unwind on a milestone holiday, 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 their homeland. These legendary characters provide for all your needs, using traditional knowledge, acute sensory awareness and savoir-faire. Whether you dream of flying over remote savannahs, canoeing crocfilled rivers, tracking fresh lion prints or photographing elephants from Land Rovers, these guides can handle the details. Your happiness and safety are their sole motivations.
Juan Pinto
Robin Pope
- Juan has worked in the guiding industry since 1993
- Zambian-born Robin Pope is one of Africa's leading safari guides
Juan is hugely knowledgeable and experienced, not simply due to many years of observation and action in the bush, but also due to a relentless process of self-education. A voracious reader, he keeps up with industry qualifications and training, and has the humility and openness to keep learning from others. Juan has a strong set of formal guiding qualifications from the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA). A level three professional guide and a senior tracker, he holds special knowledge and skills qualifications in birding and dangerous game. Juan was one of the first active guides to receive the title of scout from FGASA.
Alex Walker - Over 25 years’ experience in guiding and outfitting safaris throughout east Africa Alex was brought up in the highlands of Mufindi. He spent his childhood scouting the bush of southern Tanzania, Kenya and the vast wilderness of southern Sudan. He travelled the bush on foot, grubbing and casting around with his father's trackers.
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Actively involved in the formation of the Mara North Conservancy and other local conservation initiatives, Alex has also carved out a collection of intimate bush camps. Alex Walker’s Serian operates distinctive safaris in the Serengeti and Masai Mara, with an emphasis on photography, walking and exploring. A keen cameraman, Alex continues to record some of Africa's most memorable images.
Originally interviewed by Norman Carr, Robin Pope developed his bush knowledge and guiding skills in the 1970s, after what was meant to be a short break from university. In 1982, he opened a fly-in camp offering walking safaris at Tena Tena, thereby launching Robin Pope Safaris. He created Mobile Walking Safaris shortly afterward, and his firm has since grown to encompass ten operations. The company sets a benchmark for safari experiences in Zambia and Malawi, with superb guiding and guest experiences as key elements. Robin is now in semi-retirement, leading a number of select, remote adventures each year.
Beks Ndlovu - Beks Ndlovu believes your guide’s quality, experience and knowledge can make or break your safari African Bush Camps offers guides with the dedication and knowledge to provide you with a personal yet definitive African experience. It is their mission to not only educate and inform, but also to unravel the wilderness adventure by challenging your heart, mind and soul. The goal is to turn a great safari into an extraordinary one. CEO Beks Ndlovu is one of the most respected private guides in his native Zimbabwe. A keen photographer and writer, he specialises in tailor-made safaris for small select groups and families in some of Africa’s most remote places, including Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Namibia’s desert sand dunes.
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Ralph Bousfield - A pioneer of cultural and Bushmen safaris in Botswana Ralph Bousfield is the last in a long line of family safari operators. Five generations of safari experience have both inspired and informed his unique understanding of and sensitivity for Africa and its people. Apart from an interesting family background, Ralph also has an incredible sixth sense about the bush derived from years of training and testing by his colourful father, Jack, a legendary character both in Botswana and across Africa. Ralph did his thesis on the wattled crane under the Crane Foundation and the Endangered Wildlife Trust. He is also the presenter of a 13-part series on the Discovery Channel entitled ‘Uncharted Africa’.
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1. Juan Pinto 2. Alex Walker 3. Robin Pope 4. Beks Ndlovu 5. Ralph Bousfield
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Community 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 Masai-guided walk. Stop by a rural school to learn first hand about 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 will treasure forever.
Uthando (Love) South Africa
Nduara Loliondo
- A unique, innovative, non-profit and Fair Trade-certified company
- A tented experience with a difference
Uthando (meaning ‘love’ in Xhosa) assists with a variety of 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 townships of Cape Town, South Africa. Daily scheduled and private tours focus on topics such as urban agriculture, music, youth development, animal welfare, prisoner rehabilitation and theatre. Visitors gain insights into the remarkable stories that make life in South Africa so dynamic. Uthando also financially assists the projects it visits.
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 distinctive camps anywhere in Africa. Nduara Loliondo seasonally moves across Loliondo, part of the Great Serengeti ecosystem bordering Serengeti National Park. This mobility allows you to night drive and safari walk in the company of Masai guides. Be introduced to Masai culture and immerse yourself in their unique tribal customs. Do not be afraid to get out of your vehicle and feel the earth of Africa beneath your feet. The complex life of this vast land can best be viewed up close.
Wilderness Safaris Doro Nawas Camp - A wonderful place to search for rare desert elephants or explore ancient rock art Doro Nawas Camp rests on the slope of a small hill on the edge of the dry Aba-Huab River. This area of Namibia offers travellers untamed landscapes and environments, including ancient plains and glorious views of rugged Damaraland.
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Guests are housed in 16 natural-walled units, each with a bedroom, ensuite bathroom, and veranda 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 the local community.
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1 1. Uthando (Love) South Africa 2. Nduara Loliondo 3. Wilderness Safaris Doro Nawas Camp
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Mobile Expeditions Free your imagination with a mobile African 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 – treat yourself to a photography expedition or gasp in astonishment as a timeless landscape unfolds below you on an air safari. Enjoy a refreshing sleep in a spacious domed tent with crisp linens and full ensuite facilities. Shower al fresco or even sleep under the stars. Delight in the culinary creations of skilled chefs. See the authentic African wilderness in superb comfort.
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andBeyond Botswana Explorer Expedition - Experience the adventure of a lifetime in some of the most untouched corners of Botswana’s iconic game reserves A taste of pure wilderness – delivered with the utmost comfort and a dash of pure guest delight – the andBeyond Botswana Explorer Expedition is a guided journey through some of Botswana’s best-known wildlife areas. Providing exceptional game viewing, this camping adventure allows you to experience the region by vehicle, on foot, by traditional canoe and by boat, exploring both national parks and private wildlife concessions. Your first destination – a magical setting where land blurs with water – is a private campsite in the Okavango Delta. The next stop is the Moremi Game Reserve, where the long necks of herds of giraffes are silhouetted against the sky and graceful sitatunga hide in the reeds. The landscape changes in Savute, with its intermittently flowing channel. In famed Chobe National Park, elephants wander dreamily into camp and hippos slumber as you float down the river on a sunset cruise. The final night of the adventure is at the splendidly remote Elephant Camp, within sight of the magnificent mist that hangs above mighty Victoria Falls, where you can choose to extend your stay to explore more of the wonders of Botswana.
Accompanied by a dedicated andBeyond guide throughout, you will enjoy a spectacular game drive each morning in a customised 4WD safari vehicle. A full complement of camp staff welcomes you at each new campsite, and spacious and comfortable ensuite safari tents await you at the end of each day’s journey. A maximum of six guests on each mobile safari ensures that everyone gets a window seat and receives personalised attention from the expert guide. The mobile camping portion of the expedition comprises eight nights in comfortable domed tents with private bathrooms, each featuring ensuite flush toilet facilities and an al fresco bucket shower. Tented guest areas include a seating area with comfortable director’s chairs and a bush dining area.
African Bush Camps Footsteps Across the Linyanti Footsteps Across the Linyanti in the Chobe Enclave exposes you to the heartbeat of Africa. This safari is focused on adventure and offers very high flexibility in terms of the distances walked each day. The camp stays at one location and walks are conducted in the surrounding area, allowing for close-up encounters with wildlife.
Wilderness Safaris Diverse Namibia Thrill to an exciting adventure as you discover key areas of this vast country. Enjoy exclusive accommodation in private reserves and concessions, and privileged access to secluded locations. Take in the soaring red dunes of Sossusvlei, the life-filled blue Atlantic Ocean, the desert and denizens of Damaraland, and the plains game and predators of Etosha National Park.
Uncharted Africa Mobile Safari Expeditions - Real adventure in unreal style This safari is tailor made to suit your interests and your pace. Mobile Safari Expeditions gives you the freedom to move to some of 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 ensuite bathrooms and flush toilets. The sole concession to 'roughing it' is a bush shower. Adventure-filled guided excursions, original and fresh cuisine, and impeccable accommodations combine to create special memories of Africa.
Wilderness Safaris Great Namibian Journey This journey encompasses the highlights of Namibia. Explore the dunes of Sossusvlei and the awe-inspiring sights of the Namib Desert. Encounter the stark beauty of the Skeleton Coast, the marine life around Swakopmund and the game filled savannahs of Etosha. Dive with dolphins at Walvis Bay, hike or cycle Damaraland, or track rhinos on foot.
Wilderness Safaris Great Wilderness Journey On a classic or deluxe camping safari, immerse yourself in Botswana's rich scenic north, including the Okavango Delta, and the game rich floodplains of Linyanti and Chobe. Cap your tour with the famous Victoria Falls in Zambia. During your three-night stays in each locale, choose from a wide range of activities: guided walks, secure day and night wildlife viewing, and a packed menu of water- and land-based options.
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Mobile Walking Safaris, Robin Pope Safaris - Walking is a superb way to really discover the secrets of the bush Robin Pope Safaris' Mobile Walking Safaris have a legendary reputation for providing African wilderness experiences in South Luangwa. 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 unspoilt wilderness areas and among the finest wildlife sanctuaries in Africa. The Luangwa River meanders through over 9,065 square kilometres of land, where oxbow lagoons, woodlands and valley plains host huge concentrations of game and 450 species of birds.
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1. andBeyond Botswana Explorer Expedition 2. Footsteps Across the Linyanti 3. Diverse Namibia 4. Great Namibian Journey 5. Great Wilderness Journey 6. Uncharted Africa Mobile Safari Expeditions 7. Mobile Walking Safaris, Robin Pope Safaris
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Safaris by Horse Imagine riding across the vast, palm-fringed African desert on the back of a glistening thoroughbred stallion, in the company of a seasoned and entertaining guide. Whether you canter, gallop or trot, the pace is completely up to you. Delight in breathtaking views, exhilarating wildlife and uncharted wilderness, as the salty crust of Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pan crunches beneath your horse’s hooves and the golden African sun warms your soul. Train your binoculars on giraffes, brown hyenas, ostriches and meerkats. At day’s end, bed down in a thoughtfully appointed tent, beneath a glittering galaxy of stars in a velvet sky.
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Makgadikgadi Horse Riding Safaris - A fantastic five-night horseback-riding safari Uncharted Africa Safari Company has teamed up with David Foot Safaris to offer an itinerary combining three nights at Jack's Camp, San Camp or Camp Kalahari with two nights of fly-camping out on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans of Botswana. Now you can explore this wild, unspoilt paradise the way the earliest explorers, hunters and missionaries did: on horseback. The exceptional landscape of vast salt pans and sprawling open woodlands lends itself to an unforgettable riding experience. Personal guide service, elegant tent amenities, delicious food, crisp cotton bedding and a swimming pool combine to raise the bar for safari holidays.
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1. Makgadikgadi Horse Riding Safaris
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Safaris by Water Glide atop the winding waterways and clear lagoons of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Sit back as your expert guide poles your mokoro (dugout canoe) through long reeds filled with tiny singing frogs and stunning birds. Spy on hippos, elephants and crocodiles. Explore the Selinda Canoe Trail, the fabled Zambezi River or the rivers of Malawi. Delight in national parks and private wilderness preserves. Africa’s watery wonderlands are the lifeblood for millions of 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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Selinda Canoe Trail
Wilderness Safaris Kings Pool Camp
- A gorgeous setting for one of Botswana's leading canoeing and walking safaris
- On the boundary of Chobe National Park, the accommodation is luxurious, the wildlife spectacular
Great Plains Conservation's Selinda Canoe Trail is a five-day/four-night adventure, with guaranteed set departures from May to October. It travels along Botswana's Selinda Spillway, linking the Okavango Delta with the Linyanti water systems, in the heart of the famous private Selinda Reserve. The approximately 45-kilometre canoe trail, with only eight guests per departure, hearkens back to the spirit of safaris of old.
Kings Pool Camp, in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, is within a vast private concession in the northern part of Botswana. It overlooks the Linyanti River and the oxbow-shaped Kings Pool Lagoon, named after a Scandinavian monarch who spent nights camping on its banks, where large herds of elephants frequently appear.
Spend your days on guided explorations and camp each night along a riverbank. While paddling, you may spot elephants, hippos, buffalo, sables, roans and wild dogs, as well as predators.
The nine well-appointed canvas-and-thatch rooms each have a large ensuite bedroom and lounge. Folding doors lead to a veranda with a private plunge pool, a separate thatched sala to soak up the views and an outdoor shower. At night, you will be serenaded by hippos and maybe hear the distant cough of a leopard.
African Bush Camps Zambezi Life Styles
Mkulumadzi Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris
- An authentic mobile camp set on the bank of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park
- A wonderful combination of splendid isolation and firstclass facilities
Legendary Mana Pools in Zimbabwe is known for wildlife-rich floodplains and magnificent views of the Zambezi River. The river offers some of Africa’s premier tiger-fishing and adventure-canoeing safaris, making this World Heritage-listed site a 'must visit' national park.
Mkulumadzi Lodge is surrounded by 7,000 hectares of private concession in Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi's only 'Big Five' reserve. The lodge enjoys an idyllic location at the confluence of two rivers.
The Zambezi Life Styles camp sets up the day before your arrival and comprises four luxury twin-bedded tents with ensuite flush toilet, hot bucket shower, 12volt lamps and camera-charging stations, along with a dining tent and sitting area. Delight in the service of Shona and Tonga staffers, who will serve you breakfast, tea, dinner or cake as you view astonishing wildlife.
The main lodge area includes a restaurant, lounge, terrace, bar, shop, campfire area, viewing deck and swimming pool. The eight luxury ensuite 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 a private view of the Shire River.
Wilderness Safaris Xigera Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
- Home to brilliant birds and many forms of aquatic life
- A superb African wildlife experience in the heart of Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia
Xigera Camp (pronounced Keejera) is located on a riverine island in the heart of the Okavango Delta of Botswana. This part of the Moremi Game Reserve is a true wetland paradise, and Xigera Camp is surrounded by deep channels and lush vegetation. Xigera Camp consists of ten luxuriously furnished tented rooms, each with ensuite 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 permits a huge variety of activities, such as mokoro trips, wildlife game drives and motorboat outings.
Sausage Tree Camp immerses you in luxury, hospitality and a true wildlife experience. Stay in a Bedouin-style white canvas tent furnished in luxurious fabrics and Zambian teak. Open-air bathrooms and expansive teak decks with Zambezi River views are signatures of the camp. Awesome game viewing heads a robust panoply of safari activities in magnificent, tranquil surroundings. Drawing on the knowledge of professionally trained, qualified and experienced safari guides, this safari camp offers game drives, walking, canoeing, boating and tiger fishing. The most common sightings include lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, hippos and crocodiles.
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Wilderness Safaris Ruckomechi Camp
Wilderness Safaris Migration Routes
- Take a slow ride down the Zambezi
- Follow the paw-prints across Botswana
On the middle reaches of the Zambezi River, 97 kilometres below Lake Kariba, is Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe. On the park’s western edge, Ruckomechi Camp lies on the banks of the Zambezi River, 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.
This short nature- and wildlife-focused route includes the thundering waters of Victoria Falls and features the continually moving wildlife of northern Botswana. Discover the wooded deciduous forests and crystal-clear waterways of the Linyanti, and the fertile green islands of the Okavango Delta.
Luxurious Ruckomechi Camp accommodates guests in ten spacious ensuite tented units, including a honeymoon suite, all overlooking the Zambezi River. Ruckomechi Camp aims to be environmentally friendly wherever possible, with the hot water and lighting provided via solar power.
Staying in private and isolated wilderness areas, enjoy a diverse range of activities, as you follow the fault lines of northern Botswana and visit the iconic Savute Channel. Exploring these unique wilderness areas from the air, by vehicle, on foot or in mokoro ensures a close connection with nature and spectacular game viewing.
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1. Selinda Canoe Trail 2. African Bush Camps Zambezi Life Styles 3. Wilderness Safaris Kings Pool Camp 4. Mkulumadzi Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris 5. Wilderness Safaris Xigera Camp 6. Wilderness Safaris Ruckomechi Camp 7. Sausage Tree Camp 8. Wilderness Safaris Migration Routes
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Walking 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 to better understand Africa.
Kanga Camp
Nsefu, Robin Pope Safaris
- Where a private safari experience is the focus and tracking wildlife on foot is a speciality
- Discover Nsefu, one of the first game camps in Zambia, on a sweeping bend of Luangwa River
A walkers’ paradise in World Heritage-listed Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, the luxurious Kanga Camp offers six large Meru-style tents with a total of 12 beds, all with ensuite bathrooms. Built on raised wooden decking, the main lounge and dining area overlook the Kanga Pan, one of the area’s only year-round water sources. It is a hub of activity for wildlife and a delight to explore on foot.
In the early 1950s, Nsefu Sector was recognised as a phenomenal wildlife area, and it continues to provide visitors with a robust wildlife experience.
Undeveloped, this amazing geography gives you a pure, unspoilt African safari experience. Do not miss 'Kanga Under the Stars', your opportunity to sleep outdoors under endless African skies, lit solely by the stars.
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 attracts a wide range of wildlife, including leopards at night. Spacious bathrooms have been added to the original rondavels, and each rondavel has a clear view of the river through large windows and from a new wooden veranda.
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1. Kanga Camp 2. Kitich Camp 3. Nsefu, Robin Pope Safaris 4. Luwi Camp
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Kitich Camp
Luwi Camp
- A distinctive forest hideaway offering exclusive accommodation for a limited number of guests
- Renowned for its excellent walking areas and as the beginning of a camp-to-camp walking circuit
Experience one of Kenya’s last great stretches of wilderness. The Mathews Mountain Range rises out of the desert, a chain of peaks covered in lush indigenous forest.
Luwi’s four thatched bamboo chalets sit idyllically amid a shady grove of ancient trees lining the banks of the Luwi sand river in Zambia. The camp is rebuilt each season (which lasts from 20 May to 31 October) using natural materials. It has been described as one of the best little bush camps in Africa, with its open ensuite bathrooms, fine bedding and excellent food, cooked freshly on-site.
Tucked under a grove of fig trees, Kitich Camp overlooks a river glade. Your camp is home to elephants, leopards, bushbucks, buffalo, ancient cycads, spectacular butterflies, turacos and wild orchids. From the enchanted lounge, watch wildlife emerge from the forest at dusk. Walk along forest paths in the company of a Samburu guide, or swim in natural rock pools in crystal mountain streams. Kitich Camp is an authentic ‘bush camp’ and offers you a private wildlife experience.
Idle away hours in the nearby hide overlooking the hippo- and crocodilefilled lagoon, which provides excellent photographic opportunities. Tracking the resident pride of lions over a landscape unchanged for millennia is an unforgettable experience.
Elephant Whispers Witness elephants' intelligence, their compassionate nature and the sheer delight they experience when interacting with their human counterparts. This elephant interaction gives you the opportunity to feel their constantly curious trunks, touch their rough skin, exchange trunk greetings with them and offer them tasty treats, while learning about their behaviour and history from the elephant handlers.
Kubu Island Quad Bike Expeditions - An epic quad bike journey across the salt pans to a gorgeous island Take advantage of a rare opportunity to combine three nights at Jack’s Camp, San Camp or Camp Kalahari with two nights spent sleeping under the stars among the boulders and baobabs of Kubu Island, Botswana. After arriving by quad bike, admire the crescent-shaped island’s terraced slopes. Walk beaches fringed with wave-rounded pebbles and fossils, 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 beautiful spots in Botswana.
Adrenalin and Adventure See Africa in ways few others are able – or dare – to. Hurtle across a vast salt pan on a powerful quad bike. Soar above astonishing landscapes in a helicopter. Or touch the trunk of a majestic elephant.
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Tropic Air Helicopter Safaris - A pioneer in heli-safaris with 20 years of flying experience Enjoy epic helicopter journeys to corners of Africa that few have ever been to, or even heard of. Tropic Air specialises in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, the Congo and Namibia. Leaving the beaten path behind, these tailor-made safaris cover wild and spectacular mountains, valleys, forests and deserts, with a focus on ‘remote and unknown, unexplored and unforgettable’. Safaris always follow incredibly scenic routes, with the freedom to touch down wherever possible. These journeys offer true adventure, guided by some of the outstanding personalities who make this corner of the globe so fascinating.
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1. Elephant Whispers 2. Kubu Island Quad Bike Expeditions 3. Tropic Air Helicopter Safaris
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Safari Chic Just because you are indoors does not mean you cannot immerse yourself in the therapeutic effects of Africa’s landscapes. Style-conscious hoteliers have created inimitable refuges where the décor complements your spectacular surroundings: think earth tones, rustic materials and natural shapes. A bonus: many of these luxury safari lodges have a minimal impact on the local ecology, ensuring guests can enjoy this lovely balance between stunning interiors and exteriors for generations to come. These chic destinations also give you the chance to indulge in private pampering, explore stunning wilderness and savour fine cuisine.
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Wilderness Safaris Jao Camp - All the magic and mystique of the Okavango Delta Jao Camp is at the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta on a large, remote island. The camp has nine individually hand-crafted, twin-bedded, canvas-and-thatch rooms. Each includes a lounge, dressing area, main bedroom, ensuite facilities with antique-style fittings and outdoor shower. The main area boasts an inviting lounge and dining area, two plunge pools, a small library, a curio shop and a boma for dining under the stars. This appealing mix is complemented by an excellent wine cellar. Mokoro trips, boating, fishing, and day and night game drives are offered throughout the year, in one of the most picturesque concessions in the Delta.
Tawi Lodge Tawi Lodge is located on a private conservancy of 2,428 hectares adjacent to Amboseli National Park. This eco-friendly lodge offers 13 luxurious cottages facing Mount Kilimanjaro. From the comfort of your bed, bathtub or veranda, enjoy a fabulous view of the wildlife that comes to drink in the wetlands, with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. Activities include game drives, guided walks and massages.
Kapama Karula - A truly unusual and timeless experience on the banks of the Klaserie River Karula means 'place of peace'. Soon after you arrive, you will understand why the name is perfect for this magnificent safari camp. The open-plan lounge and bar area, with its floor-to-ceiling glass doors and neutral colours, is a restful balance of style and natural light. Each of Karula’s five superior suites is exquisitely decorated and offers generous space, an indoor and outdoor shower, twin basins, bath, minibar, safe, airconditioning, overhead fans, telephones, wall-mounted international adapter, Wi-Fi, iPod docking station, gas fireplace and virtually any other amenity a seasoned traveller deserves. Big glass sliding doors provide unrestricted views of the river and its inhabitants. Each suite has its own outdoor deck and private lap pool. Karula also features five suites with all the luxury features of the superior suites but without a pool. For a more authentic experience, choose one of two tents, which provide full bush views under traditional canvas.
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Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge - A sanctuary symbolising a new era in luxurious South African safari lodges 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, and 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 renowned subterranean wine cellar, too. The unique ‘day bar’ is a perfect place to relax with your feet in cool water, watching the waterhole. Enjoy dinner in a boma or wine cellar, or around the central ponds. Each of the 13 ultra-luxurious suites, including the magnificent Amber Presidential Suite, are ensuite, with deep natural stone baths, indoor and al fresco showers, and secluded private plunge pools with lounging chairs facing the bushveld. All are framed by imaginative gardens. The original aesthetics of the new Earth Lodge complement the famous Sabi Sabi safari experience of close encounters with wildlife.
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1. Wilderness Safaris Jao Camp 2. Tawi Lodge 3. Kapama Karula 4. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
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Coasts and Lakes Photograph exotic wildlife. Scuba dive among jewel-like reefs. Go kayaking or wake-boarding. At day’s end, savour a gourmet meal at an idyllic retreat, where you may spot dazzling birds or nesting turtles.
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1. Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris 2. Wilderness Safaris Rocktail Beach Camp
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Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris
Wilderness Safaris Rocktail Beach Camp
- Unwind in a beautiful and tranquil setting on the Nankumba Peninsula
- Rocktail is an underwater paradise for scuba aficionados
Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge is situated on the south end of Lake Malawi – romantically named 'The Lake of Stars'. The lodge is subtly nestled in lush hills, among trees and craggy outcrops. The Nankumba Peninsula is recognised as one of the most beautiful shores of the lake and borders Lake Malawi National Park, which was established to protect the area’s cichlid fish. In 1984, the park became a World Heritage-listed site. The lodge is built on a steep hillside that provides spectacular views from the villas, dining area and main lodge. The central area consists of a spacious open restaurant with a covered section, bar and a cosy fire pit. The infinity pool is on a lower terraced deck. The ten villas are individual in shape and style, but each has a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. Simply relax amid the tranquil scenery or enjoy the many activities on offer, including snorkelling, kayaking, water-skiing, fun-tubing, wake-boarding, sailing, fishing and diving.
Nestled amid ancient dunes along South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal coast, Rocktail Beach Camp is shaded by the bird-filled greenery of the Maputaland Coastal Forest. Just offshore, the Maputaland Marine Reserve – often described as one of the most diverse underwater sites in the world – offers world-class diving and snorkelling, along with other marine adventures and remote, pristine beaches. Dive in a World Heritage-listed site along unspoiled reefs; you will be among the very few lucky people to have access to this stunning coastline. Do not miss the loggerhead turtles laying eggs nearby. The camp’s 17 rooms boast plenty of glass to invite the gorgeous outdoors inside, plus ensuite bathrooms, mosquito nets and overhead fans. Each of the seven family units accommodates two adults and two children with two-bedrooms and one bathroom. The camp also has a central dining room, bar and lounge with wrap-around veranda, viewing deck with ocean views, wine cellar, large pool and children's playroom.
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Wilderness Safaris Kulala Desert Lodge
- Take a breather from your hectic schedule, and reconnect with yourself and with nature
- 'Kulala' – To sleep, to rest, to feel the space and silence
Cradled by ancient mountains, andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is renowned for its luxurious accommodation overlooking the starkly beautiful Namib Desert. Designed to capture the splendour and solitude of the desert, just ten stoneand-glass villas spread along the curve of the escarpment offer absolute privacy. Each air-conditioned suite is furnished to complement the majestic hues of the desert and features a private veranda, split-level bedroom and living room with fireplace, ensuite glass-encased bathroom, and outdoor shower. The villas are equipped with a star-viewing skylight, music system and custom-stocked personal bar.
Hidden at the foot of the majestic Sossusvlei dunes near Namib Naukluft Park, Kulala Desert Lodge is one of the closest spots to Sossusvlei's famous attractions, such as Dead Vlei. Its famous red dunes, mountainous scenery and vast open plains are a spectacular setting for your luxury tented experience. Immerse yourself in the magnitude, solitude and tranquillity of the desert through a wide range of activities. These include private Sossusvlei tours, horsebackriding, hot-air ballooning, scenic nature walks, trips to nearby Sesriem, ecosensitive guided quad-biking, and drives to view the desert’s fascinating flora and fauna.
Desert and Dunes Explore spectacular deserts, dunes and mountain vistas in Namibia and Botswana by quad bike, sand surfboard or balloon. Plush camps, great food and personal service make for an exclusive experience.
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San Camp - 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 of Botswana. The central dining tent houses a small library and natural history museum filled with fascinating artefacts. Guests can relax, unwind and retreat in the yoga and meditation pavilion. San Camp operates from 16 April to 15 October each year. Activities on offer include interacting with habituated meerkats, walking with Bushmen, joining game drives to experience fascinating desert wildlife – such as brown hyenas, aardwolves and aardvarks – visiting Chapman’s Baobab, and quad-biking across the pans.
Wilderness Safaris Serra Cafema Find Serra Cafema’s remote site along the banks of Kunene River in northwest Namibia, a threehour light aircraft trip from Windhoek. Intimacy is assured here in the Hartmann Valley, in a camp that weaves together rustic and luxury elements. River rapids provide a calming ambiance under shady trees. Release yourself into a dreamland of gurgling waters, and explore one of the most starkly beautiful regions in the world.
1. andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge 2. San Camp 3. Wilderness Safaris Kulala Desert Lodge 4. Wilderness Safaris Serra Cafema
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Rivers and Waterways It is 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, unwind in an exquisite camp, lodge or villa. Let your hosts soothe your body, mind and spirit with great food, vintage wines and spa treatments.
Belmond Khwai River Lodge - Accommodation is everything you would expect of a luxury safari experience On the edge of a leadwood forest, the lodge overlooks the vast Khwai River floodplains and beyond into the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Located in one of Africa’s most sought-after wildlife-viewing spots, the property is renowned for its large concentrations of big mammals – such as elephants, buffalo and hippos – in addition to lions, leopards and wild dogs. Enjoy excellent day and night game drives in open 4WD vehicles year-round. All luxury tents offer great views and are located on raised wooden platforms, shaded by traditional African thatch roofs. The large private decks are furnished with easy chairs and a hammock, ideal for viewing wildlife.
Selinda Camp - There is a hardly a moment in camp where there is not an animal in sight
Kwando Lebala - 'Lebala' is the Tswana word for 'wide-open plains' At Kwando Lebala, eight spacious tents offer extensive views over African plains and wetlands from private decks. Each tent has a bath and double outdoor shower with hot and cold running water, and the family tent features an extra bedroom.
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Part of Botswana's Kwando-Linyanti flood plain system, the surrounding marshlands and savannahs are an intricate labyrinth of waterways, islands, bush, scrub and trees. In this vast, spectacular landscape, massive herds and ever-attendant predators abound. Delight in regular sightings of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, impalas, wildebeest and more, while enjoying eco-friendly comfort.
Watch bountiful wildlife from Great Plains Conservation's Selinda Camp. It offers a spectacular location on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, in the private 129,500-hectare Selinda Reserve of northern Botswana. Enjoy extraordinary views of exotic game, verdant floodplains and sweeping savannah from your shaded, luxury, tented safari camp. The raised wooden decks surrounding both the main lounge and the guest tents allow you to enjoy delicious cuisine or relaxing afternoon tea, while still thrilling to the incredible sight of Africa's untamed bounty. On safari, it is possible to see a tremendous diversity of wildlife species, from resident prides of lions to huge herds of elephants and packs of wild dogs. You may also see rare roans or ubiquitous zebras. Nocturnal wildlife is plentiful, so you may spot aardwolves and civets. The glorious experience of exploring this vast area – whether by foot, 4WD open game drive vehicle or boat – almost defies description.
Luangwa River Camp, Robin Pope Safaris
Selinda Explorers Camp
- A remarkable, distinctive camp in the Luangwa Valley
- Bring your family or small group to an exclusive private camp in Botswana
This five-bedroom camp is situated opposite the game rich Luangwa Wafwa in the South Luangwa region of Zambia. It has all the creature comforts of a deluxe camp, yet offers the intimacy, tailored activities and flexible mealtimes of a bush camp. The property’s main area is elevated on wooden decks, affording great park and river views. The two-level swimming pool is sunk into the deck, with a waterfall adjoining the two pools. Seating areas are elevated and open plan, with well-integrated bar, dining and reading spaces, and the décor features locally crafted details.
Great Plains Conservation's Selinda Explorers Camp is nestled in a remote, treasured location on the famous Selinda Spillway. As the lifeline of the private Selinda Reserve, the Selinda Spillway is a crucial gathering point for the wildlife of this pristine 129,500-hectare reserve. Selinda Explorers Camp offers the same quality of wildlife experiences that guests enjoy at other Selinda and Zarafa camps, but it caters exclusively to just one group of no more than eight guests at a time. This classic camp, consisting of four custom-designed tents, offers warm hospitality and the classic safari experience with a modern twist.
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Chongwe River Camp and Tsika Island Kasaka River Lodge The mighty Zambezi River extends the length of Kasaka River Lodge, just five kilometres from Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park. All eight ensuite tents, perched 15 metres above the river, offer stunning views. The private, two-bedroom Hippo Pod is great for families or groups of friends, with its own pool, dining options and guides. Enjoy an authentic, personalised and value-for-money safari.
- At the confluence of the mighty Zambezi and Chongwe rivers in Zambia lies Chongwe River Camp Established in 1996, Chongwe River Camp is right next to Lower Zambezi National Park. Guests often enjoy the unforgettable sight of elephants wandering through camp. The eight classic tents are complemented by two extravagant and exclusive suites, which offer individual butler service and private plunge pools. Whichever accommodation you choose, you will be in excellent hands. Additionally, 30 kilometres upstream from camp is Tsika Island, a great base for an all-day canoeing safari downriver. Accommodation on the island comprises three unassuming chalets, which are completely private and exclusive to Chongwe guests.
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1. Belmond Khwai River Lodge 2. Kwando Lebala 3. Selinda Camp 4. Luangwa River Camp, Robin Pope Safaris 5. Kasaka River Lodge 6. Selinda Explorers Camp 7. Chongwe River Camp and Tsika Island
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Okavango Delta Set out by mokoro (dugout canoe) through a fascinating labyrinth of channels and islands. The Okavango Delta – an immense mosaic of rivers and floodplains – offers some the continent’s premier game viewing. Watch the gut-wrenching survival cycle of lions, 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 fourposter bed heaped with fluffy cotton pillows and spread with Egyptian linens. Even deep in the bush, enjoy the comforts of home: ensuite flush toilets, hot and cold running water, showers, and soaking tubs.
andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp - A maze of sparkling lagoons, meandering channels and lush islands teeming with life, Botswana’s Okavango Delta is a jewel at the heart of the Kalahari Desert Known as the river that never finds the sea, the delta’s crystal-clear channels spread their papyrus-fringed banks and fertile floating islands over the thirsty lands of the Kalahari. Adapted for a life in and out of the water, the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga are found in this watery wilderness. Lions, cheetahs, leopards and African wild dogs share the floodplains with large herds of elephants and buffalo. andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp enjoys luxurious solitude on its own delta island within a 272,000-hectare exclusive wildlife concession.
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Taking its inspiration from the water lily, Xaranna is a delightful camp with just nine ensuite safari tents built of canvas and bleached timber. The overall atmosphere of the camp is cool, light and airy, in keeping with the gentle beauty of its environment. The safari tents are organic in design and are delicately decorated in shades of khaki and soft lily pink. Each tent boasts a romantic outdoor sala, private plunge pool, indoor bathtub and al fresco shower. The guest
areas are all carefully positioned to maximise the sweeping views out across the channels, allowing guests to admire the classic delta treeline silhouettes. The camp celebrates Botswana’s iconography, with humorous design touches throughout. The intimate guest sitting area boasts a spacious reading nook, perfect for afternoon relaxation. The elevated dining area features shady verandas with mesmerising views leading out onto an open-air boma, where exotic candlelit dinners are served beneath the stars. A fully stocked safari shop offers chic outdoor gear, African art and jewellery.
Duba Plains Camp - Duba Plains Camp in Botswana is a year-round delight Learn how Great Plains Conservation's Duba Plains Camp, located on a private 31,160-hectare reserve in the northern reaches of the Okavango Delta, embodies the soul of ‘wild Africa’. With its permanent channels and large wooded islands, it offers wildlife diversity year-round. Meander on permanent waterways that provide extraordinary bird-watching and a steady supply of water for bountiful wildlife. Lions are renowned for their pursuit of the buffalo herds here and are most active during daylight. Stay for three or four nights to fully appreciate the complexity of the delta's ecosystem.
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Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp - Mombo Camp: A place of plenty Recharge on Mombo Island in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Unwind under the large, shady trees at Mombo Camp, overlooking a floodplain teeming with lions, leopards, giraffes and other wildlife. Mombo Camp comprises nine spacious tents raised off the ground, all built to maximise the views over the plains. Relish the camp’s personal service, great food and luxurious accommodations. Dine by starlight in the boma or splash in the plunge pool. Your game viewing experience starts in the camp itself, where you can readily spot many animals from the decks. Further afield, explore the savannah and floodplain on informative game drives.
1. andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp 2. Duba Plains Camp 3. Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp
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Majestic Victoria Falls Surrender to the awe-inspiring 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 luxury.
Tongabezi Lodge
Royal Chundu Luxury Zambezi Lodges
- A romantic hideaway on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from Victoria Falls
- A sanctum of quiet solitude and beauty, and the first Relais & Châteaux property in Zambia
Tongabezi Lodge is a fabulous luxury retreat. One of the original Zambezi River properties, the lodge offers laid-back refinement and a design featuring vast living spaces. It provides a wonderful frame for the beauty of Zambia, with the mighty Zambezi River visible from almost every viewpoint.
Royal Chundu offers two magnificent retreats hidden on the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, 30 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls. There are ten suites perched on the river and another four luxury suites on Katambora Island. Absorb the pulse of the river from your private deck, or enjoy the tranquillity of a river canoe outing followed by pampering at the spa.
Choose from a selection of river cottages, distinctive open-fronted houses, an enclosed house or a two-bedroom garden house. Each of the latter two features a private plunge pool. Whether you slow down only for meals or indulge in serious time out during your break, Tongabezi Lodge has a selection of unusual locations to satisfy you.
The Stanley and Livingstone Private Game Reserve
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1. Tongabezi Lodge 2. The Stanley and Livingstone Private Game Reserve 3. Wilderness Safaris Toka Leya 4. Royal Chundu Luxury Zambezi Lodges
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The 2,428-hectare Stanley and Livingstone Private Game Reserve, situated mere minutes from Victoria Falls, also borders Zambezi National Park. It offers adventurous visitors a diverse and unforgettable African experience. Home to the 'Big Five', the reserve gives you the opportunity to enjoy activities ranging from game drives and game walks to rhino interactions.
Wilderness Safaris Toka Leya Camp Overlooking Zambia’s mighty Zambezi River and some of its islands, Toka Leya Camp consists of 12 spacious, ensuite, safari-style tents. Wooden walkways link the units and main area, limiting the camp’s footprint on the environment. The Zambezi River offers memorable experiences, from Victoria Falls to intimate sundowners. Toka Leya is located inside Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
Experience Africa’s magnificent wildlife during a day trip to Chobe National Park, or enjoy a picnic at Victoria Falls, incredible fishing and unparalleled birding. In the chef’s open-air boma, delight in an authentic African barbecue, and traditional song and dance.
Star Gazing 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.
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Wilderness Safaris Little Kulala - Sleep under the stars and slide down a dune
1. Wilderness Safaris Little Kulala
Situated among camel thorn trees on the dry Auab riverbed in the Kulala Wilderness Reserve of Namibia, these 11 climate-controlled, luxury thatched villas merge impeccably into the timeless desert landscape. Enjoy 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 aweinspiring views of desert-adapted wildlife and plants. Admire the views from a hot-air balloon or quad-bike. A private gate into Namib Naukluft Park gives you easy access to the famous dunes of Sossusvlei.
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Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Spectacular Views Pick up your binoculars and watch faraway shapes morph into iconic spectacles: thundering elephant herds, cheetahs speeding across the Serengeti, hippos bathing at a waterhole or whales breaching the ocean waves. Admire mists rising from an untamed river. See the snowcapped peak of Kilimanjaro. Stand awestruck before a world-famous crater or explore an acacia woodland. These are the spectacular views of your dreams. Your luxurious lodge is the perfect complement to these unforgettable landscapes. Bask in the sun beside an infinity pool, curl up at night beside a crackling fire or linger over a superb gourmet meal.
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Tsala Treetop Lodge - Tsala is a lavish celebration of the spirit of Africa Set in the treetops of an age-old indigenous forest are ten luxury suites and six lavish two-bedroom villas. Amid bespoke décor and opulent facilities – such as private decks overlooking the forest, a fireplace, a spacious bathroom fit for royalty and your own infinity pool – you will enjoy superb privacy. Zinzi Restaurant at Tsala is one of the top restaurants on the Garden Route. Relaxed and affordable, it offers an abundant menu of distinctive international flavours in a gorgeous forest setting. Tsala is a place to celebrate, unwind and connect within an architectural masterpiece, where the service is world-class and the experience magical.
Delight in exquisite deluxe accommodation and extravagance, in an idyllic haven where the beauty of nature surpasses 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 a mountain slope overlooking the whale watching mecca of Walker Bay, situated along South Africa’s beautiful Western Cape.
Kakuli Camp Kakuli, meaning ‘old buffalo bull’, was conservationist Norman Carr’s local nickname. Operational from May to November, Kakuli – run by Norman Carr Safaris – is also open in the ‘Secret Season’ from January to April, when guests can experience walking and boating safaris. Elevated over a stretch of riverbank in Zambia, Kakuli is famous for leopard and lion sightings, and for the views of the Luangwa from all four tents.
Baines' River Camp
andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
- Experience one of Africa’s last remaining true wilderness areas in style
- Guests can be forgiven for losing track of which era, or even continent, they are experiencing
It only takes 40 minutes by air from Lusaka to reach this intimate safari camp in the game rich and unfenced Lower Zambezi Valley. Its eight individual suites and the private two-bedroom cottage are elegantly decorated and showcase breathtaking views across the Zambezi River.
Watch swirling mists on the edge of the atmospheric crater, and be enchanted by the lodge's architecture. You may think you have entered a safari fantasy. The domed dining room, with its fireplace, crystal, silverware and massive wooden platters, turns every meal into a special occasion.
Accommodating guests aged eight and up, the camp offers a choice of land- and water-based safari activities. A dedicated team will plan your days to suit your preferences. With its sumptuous cuisine, Baines’ River Camp defines Zambian safari luxury, without the fuss. Planning an intimate wedding? A romantic sunset is guaranteed; the team will take care of the rest.
Steeped in romance, each unit is up on stilts and has been hand-crafted from mud and thatch. Each is adorned with graceful antiques, elegant teak panelling and whimsical African treasures. Notice the centrepiece of roses in your ensuite bathroom, which also has a huge shower and chandelier-lit bathtub. Floor-toceiling windows ensure breathtaking views.
Mchenja Camp Mchenja has been described as one of the most luxurious and romantic bush camps in Zambia. The five specially designed tents with roll-top baths and outdoor showers are strung along the Luangwa River, and all rooms have spectacular views. Elephants are known to drink from the plunge pool in the main area, while lions and leopards frequently wander the ebony grove and drink from the permanent lagoon behind camp.
Tortilis Camp - Treasure your time in one of Amboseli's few areas of acacia tortilis woodlands Tortilis Camp is a small, elegant eco-lodge with magnificent views across the plains to the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro. Offering 16 spacious ensuite tents, a family tent, and a spectacular private house, the camp also has a spa, a swimming pool, and a large lounge and dining area. Enjoy game drives, guided bushwalks and scrumptious bush meals shared inside the wildlife park or within Tortilis Camp's private 12,140-hectare game concession. The private Kitirua Conservancy offers guests the chance to get up close to Amboseli’s famous elephants, some of the finest 'tuskers' to be found in Kenya.
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The Outpost - High on a hill overlooking the Luvuvhu River Valley The Outpost lies in the Makuleke Contractual Park, a vast and remote wilderness area bordered to the north by the Limpopo River and Zimbabwe, and to the east by Crooks Corner and Mozambique. This 'Big Five' park measures some 26,500 hectares and is well known for its abundant wildlife, including species that are rare in the southern and central regions of the park. The contemporary design of The Outpost emphasises its beautiful surroundings but blends into the wilderness that is its home. The luxury accommodation consists of 12 open-plan, stand-alone suites offering spectacular panoramic views of the river and bush below.
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1. Tsala Treetop Lodge 2. Baines’ River Camp 3. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve 4. Kakuli Camp 5. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge 6. Mchenja Camp 7. Tortilis Camp 8. The Outpost
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African Pride 15 On Orange Hotel
Boutique Hotels 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 wildlife-rich 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-fromhome atmospheres in chic cities. Relish soothing spa treatments, play championship golf courses, and enjoy elegant shops and friendly bistros.
Taj Cape Town - A combination of rich history and elegant contemporary architecture The Taj Cape Town is a deluxe hotel ideally located in the centre of historic Cape Town at the entrance to the famous pedestrian precinct, St George’s Mall. It is superbly situated for those looking to discover the authentic Cape Town and its blend of fascinating history, exotic culture, soulful art, lively entertainment and delectable cuisine. The Taj Cape Town itself presents an eclectic variety of culinary experiences, including Bombay Brasserie, an Indian speciality restaurant; Mint, a relaxed allday-dining restaurant; and Twankey Bar, a champagne, oyster and Guinness bar.
Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa - An opulent jewel in the crown of Cape Town’s glamorous, famed Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Originally built as the harbour master’s private residence in the 1800s, this grand architectural gem has been transformed into one of Cape Town’s most exclusive and elegant boutique hotels. Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa offers guests exclusive accommodation and personalised butler-style service in a world-class setting.
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The glamorous suites and each of the five chic rooms at Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa have been individually decorated and imbued with a unique and understated Victorian elegance, juxtaposed with lush contemporary style and comfort.
African Pride 15 On Orange Hotel is set in the upmarket suburb of Gardens at the foot of Table Mountain. This ideal location on the fringe of Cape Town’s vibrant city centre ensures that you are within walking distance of the National Museum, the Planetarium and the Company Gardens – the green jewel in the heart of the metropolis. The popular V&A Waterfront is also nearby.
The Clarendon Bantry Bay Nestled peacefully on the peninsula of one the world's most spectacular settings, The Clarendon Bantry Bay is a fusion of pure sophistication and beach-side charm. It is an unimpeachable enclave of tranquillity, privacy and beauty. Find your place amid the turquoise bays and sparkling shores, and enjoy the promise of utter contentment. The rooms are sensuously styled and elegantly contemporary.
Queen Victoria Hotel - A luxuriously appointed boutique hotel at the V&A Waterfront While staying at the Queen Victoria Hotel, you will have easy access to the Waterfront – the shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. The overall look of the property not only reflects the hotel’s spectacular location but also encapsulates the sumptuous style and attention to detail that defines small, luxury retreats around the world. The hotel has 35 elegant rooms and suites, including a presidential suite with a generous terrace for al fresco entertaining. From the food and beverage offerings at Dash Restaurant to the interior aesthetics, the Queen Victoria Hotel embodies a sense of international flair fused with local flavour.
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa - A home-away-from-home, only better Conveniently situated in the Sandton suburb of Morningside Manor, the exclusive Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is an award-winning property boasting 40 highly individualised suites. The full range of services includes the Balinese Spa, an excellent à la carte restaurant and a large, fully equipped gym. Elegant enough to host European royalty, relaxed enough for one visitor to call it 'a home-away-from-home, only better', this well-kept secret is truly a world-class venue. Enjoy a warm welcome and the park-like setting, featuring huge mature trees, stunning rosebushes and abundant birdlife. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is renowned for its tranquil elegance, superlative service standards, historic setting, and proximity to sights and activities. Go horseback-riding, play championship golf, hit the tennis or squash courts, or enjoy fascinating visits to local museums. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa strives to match the beauty of its surroundings with personalised service and a ‘can-do’ attitude.
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10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estate - An established boutique hotel of superb luxury and effortless style in Johannesburg Nestled in lush, landscaped gardens, the hotel provides gourmet cuisine and warm South African hospitality. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, 10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estate offers impeccable, attentive and personalised service, while at all times embodying its ethos of 'gracious living in luxury'. At 10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estate, the 14 luxurious looms, as well as an exquisite presidential suite, all include a 'champagne' breakfast, flat-screen TVs, a full bouquet of DSTV (satellite) channels, and the option of under-floor heating or a fireplace. Limited soft drink minibars are available in all rooms.
1. Taj Cape Town 2. Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa 3. African Pride 15 On Orange Hotel 4. The Clarendon Bantry Bay 5. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa 6. Queen Victoria Hotel 7. 10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estate
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Wine and Golf Amble through sweeping South African vineyards framed by the Helderberg Mountains and inhale the earthy scent of sun-warmed fields. Explore charming towns like Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek, brimming with elegant boutiques, noted restaurants and stunning art galleries. Treat yourself to a few challenging rounds of golf on a celebrated course designed by Gary Player – even if the sensational views make it hard to keep your eye on the ball. At your historic estate hotel, relax by a shimmering pool, enjoy a luxurious spa treatment or indulge in a leisurely, four-course meal – complete with fine vintages, of course.
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Majeka House
Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa
- Notwithstanding the design awards, this is a space to simply unwind and relax
- Enjoy distinctive and captivating hospitality in a luxurious country hotel
Managed by the owner and blissfully private, Majeka House is an ideal base from which to explore the historic town of Stellenbosch, with its interesting shops, galleries, museums and al fresco café culture. Numerous famous vineyards and award-winning restaurants, dotted along the Stellenbosch wine route, are within striking distance.
This historic Cape Dutch hotel is set in the peaceful Heart of the Helderberg, surrounded by majestic mountains, adjoining the Gary Player-designed Erinvale Golf Course and near the acclaimed wine estates of Vergelegen, Lourensford and Morgenster.
Majeka House combines a prime location with luxurious accommodation, thoughtful service, a sophisticated bar and award-winning restaurant, a professionally run spa, and spacious grounds to create what is undoubtedly one of the most stylish boltholes in the Cape Winelands.
The Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa is well situated if you want to explore the Cape Whale Coast or the Winelands, and is a superb starting point on the Garden Route. The property’s 57 rooms are exquisitely furnished. The Seventeen07, Erinvale’s flagship restaurant, offers unforgettable dishes from Africa and the East, while the Irish-style Skelligs Pub is open daily for lunches and light dinners.
Grande Roche Hotel
Devon Valley Hotel
- Where a reservation is the promise of a treat
- Ideal for a romantic escape or a rejuvenating retreat
The Cape is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful and satisfying holiday destinations. The luckier visitors stay at a remarkable property called Grande Roche Hotel. 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 Hotel is an easy 40-minute drive from Cape Town and its international airport.
The award-winning Devon Valley Hotel is hidden away in a green and peaceful corner of the Stellenbosch Winelands, showcasing breathtaking views of olive groves, vineyards and the Helderberg Mountains, while offering authentic hospitality.
Offering guests a range of 28 superbly fitted suites and rooms – and an awardwinning restaurant, Bosman's – Grande Roche Hotel ensures that guests depart with the greatest reluctance.
The Devon Valley Hotel’s 50 stylishly furnished suites reflect the contemporary colonial feel of the hotel. The spacious vineyard luxury rooms and manor house suites are the hotel’s premier accommodations. Flavours Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience and contemporary Cape cuisine. The cosy, tastefully decorated lounge and bar, with fireplace, offers light meals and whiskey and wine tastings daily.
Delaire Graff Estate
Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate
- Surrounded by sweeping views of stunning vineyards and mountains near Stellenbosch
- Discover a sweeping French Huguenot domain in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley in the Western Cape
Delaire Graff Estate is situated in the heart of one of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine regions. This incredible location provides a sense of escape and privacy. The ten sumptuously decorated lodges, each with its own plunge pool, invite complete relaxation in an idyllic setting. Spacious living areas and light-filled interiors flow seamlessly outdoors, where you can go for a refreshing dip, or relax in the sunshine while the lodge butler serves you a chilled glass of wine. Each private kitchen is stocked with everything from organic coffee and speciality teas to fine handmade chocolates.
Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate wears her 300-year history with dignity. Linger for a moment to admire lush vines spread across 19 hectares, against a vista of the valley floor framed by rugged mountains. A one-hour drive through scenic countryside brings you from Cape Town to Grande Provence in less than an hour.
Here, you can enjoy art and design, gourmet foods and award-winning vintages, and a world-class spa featuring indulgent products and exclusive treatments. Seeking an excursion? Stroll in a vineyard, treat yourself to a wine tasting, or visit the nearby historic towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
The property offers original cuisine, plush accommodations and award-winning wines – feel the regal difference. The Estate delights discerning clientele with The Restaurant, The Winery and The Gallery. In the latest addition, The Shop, browse for furniture, paintings, jewellery, ceramics, glass, sculpture, textiles, and contemporary and traditional art. The Owner's Cottage provides luxurious hospitality for up to ten guests, while La Provencale offers two-bedrooms. You can reserve either of them for your exclusive use or on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Either is a lovely retreat for couples or families holidaying together in Western Cape wine country.
1,2,3,4,5,6 1. Majeka House 2. Grande Roche Hotel 3. Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa 4. Devon Valley Hotel 5. Delaire Graff Estate 6. Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate
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Gourmet Food
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel - A timeless and authentic resort hotel in the heart of Cape Town
Whether you prefer the bustle of a lively city or the rural enchantment of South Africa’s wine country, you can enjoy world-class dining at an elegant hotel. Savour afternoon tea in a spectacular property in the heart of Cape Town. Relish an unforgettable meal highlighting farm-fresh ingredients at a vineyard property, where you can also enjoy a personalised cookery class at the chef’s table. Sample dishes accented with unique African flavours – from local fish and berries to fynbos honey, Angelot cheese and springbok. And take a cookery class so you can learn how to recreate some of the magic of your holiday back home.
Conveniently located within the cultural centre, close to some of the city’s top sightseeing attractions and beaches, the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is an urban sanctuary. The two heated swimming pools, rolling lawns and rose gardens lend themselves to romance, and the abundant space is family-friendly. Several wings house 198 individually styled rooms and suites. The contemporary Planet Bar and Restaurant and the Oasis Bistro provide guests with a true South African gastronomic experience. Afternoon tea in the hotel lounge is a signature event. Librisa Spa, the destination day spa, offers a bouquet of holistic treatments.
La Residence - La Residence is in a class of its own Located in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley at the heart of a private 12-hectare estate, La Residence is a romantic paradise filled with wonderful artwork and magnificent furniture. Enjoy 11 glamorous suites decorated in vibrant colours, and five villas that offer family lodging with private garden views and luxurious interiors. Warm, personalised service creates an atmosphere of relaxation.
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Fresh garden produce highlights memorable meals at The Terrace Room, while the on-site pool, spa, gym, library and wireless Internet add value. Activities available locally range from wine-tasting to golf.
Le Quartier Français This boutique hotel in the heart of the Franschhoek Wine Valley is home to an award-winning restaurant, The Tasting Room, with African-inspired menus designed by Grande Chef Margot Janse. You can also enjoy cooking classes and lingering lunches at the Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant. Opulently comfortable rooms, attention to detail and extraordinary staff ensure that this Relais & Châteaux Auberge spoils its guests.
1,2,3 1. La Residence 2. Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel 3. Le Quartier Franรงais
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Old Colonial Charm Safari jackets and lazily spinning ceiling fans. Terraces overlooking endless grasslands. Icy cocktails at sundown. Live the daydream of an authentic African colonial station. Half a world away 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 trackers introduce you to 'Big Five' wildlife 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.
Giraffe Manor - One of Nairobi's most iconic destinations Set within a giraffe sanctuary, this is almost certainly the only place in the world where you can eat breakfast with rare Rothschild giraffes. These beautiful creatures vie for your attention at the dining table, the front door and even your bedroom window. In the mornings and evenings, they often greet guests and sniff out some snacks before venturing back into their spacious sanctuary. Built in the 1930s, this luxury boutique hotel has maintained all the charm of the era. Giraffe Manor also offers easy access to an elephant orphanage and the Karen Blixen Museum. All transfers within the Karen and Langata areas are included in the rate.
Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp and Private Homestead - Explore the legendary Masai Mara in an exclusive untouched concession bordering Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve The Cottar family has been guiding safaris for over five generations (since 1919) and have taken many guests, including royalty, on countless adventures. Return to the original spirit and essence of luxurious and quality ‘safari’, reminiscent of a golden era of romance, professional guiding, adventure and elegance.
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Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp guarantees you privacy and abundant wildlife. As in a scene from ‘Out Of Africa’, be enchanted in one of ten spacious white canvas tents, including four family units, all luxuriously furnished and incorporating original safari antiques from the 1920s. If you require a more exclusive experience, Cottar’s luxurious Mara homestead is an excellent choice for discerning travellers. Contemporary African in style, Cottar’s Private Homestead rents only on an exclusive basis and includes a staff of eight. It features five ensuite bedrooms, a large living room, a dining room and a magnificent viewing deck with sweeping views across the savannah.
Wilderness Safaris The River Club - A charming oasis that brings together early years of adventure and modern conservation The River Club, on the banks of the swift-flowing Zambezi River and a half-hour drive from Victoria Falls, is an Edwardian-style house that makes you feel you are straddling two continents at once. Experience award-winning attention to detail, with ten luxury chalets spread under riverine vegetation. Each chalet comprises luxurious bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms and captivating innovations. All rooms have one side open to the river, so you can enjoy uninterrupted vistas of the Zambezi from your bed and bathtub. The River Club is not a traditional safari camp, but you may spot elephants in Zambezi National Park opposite, and see and hear hippos.
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andBeyond Kirkman's Kamp - The spirit of safari comes alive at historic andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp This camp is set within one of the most prestigious game parks in South Africa, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve – renowned for some of the best 'Big Five' game viewing in the country, if not the world. Animals roam freely between the 64,749-hectare reserve and neighbouring Kruger National Park, as there are no boundary fences. Excellent numbers of animals 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 animals are mostly relaxed, allowing fantastic viewing and photographic opportunities. You are likely to track individually recognisable leopards and lions, as well as several clans of spotted hyenas and various antelope species, from impalas, common waterbucks and grey duikers to greater kudus and bushbucks. Elephants, white rhinos, giraffes and buffalo congregate at the waterholes, while hippos frolic in the rivers. Thrilling night game drives provide a glimpse of the nocturnal world of otherwise seldom-encountered species, like white-tailed mongooses,
African civets and large spotted genets. Game drives traverse an area of 6,300 hectares and strict vehicle limits at sightings ensure the exclusivity of the game viewing experience. Sensitive off-road driving ensures wonderful views of wildlife, and rangers are constantly in touch with each other to keep track of animal movements. Step back in time into the gracious early Transvaal atmosphere of this original 1920s homestead and marvel at the spectacular views of the unspoiled Sand River landscape from each of the 18 air-conditioned guest suites. Rolling lawns carve out a niche in a wild and tumbling wilderness. Spacious sitting, dining and bar areas contain mementoes of a time long past.
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1. Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Private Homestead 2. Giraffe Manor 3. Wilderness Safaris The River Club 4. andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp
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Romance 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, as you revel in luxurious amenities and legendary service. Delight in invigorating adventures or laze poolside in seclusion. Welcome the dawn from a hot-air balloon. Toast your relationship with champagne. Soothe your bodies with a massage for two. Spot elephants and lions on a thrilling safari – an unforgettable escapade you will be able to tell your grandchildren about. And dine by candlelight under a panorama of stars.
Cape Grace
Joy's Camp
- Cape Grace is dedicated to surpassing expectations and making your stay intensely memorable
- A good place to start your love affair with Africa
Recharge on your own private quay at Cape Grace, while discovering the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa. Stylish interiors inspired by Cape Town’s heritage enhance Cape Grace’s sense of place. Silk drapes hand-inscribed with text from ship’s logbooks, as well as hand-painted tapestries and murals, reflect the city’s 17th century maritime history, while beautiful botanical images celebrate its natural history. Each of the 120 luxury rooms and suites provides astounding views of Table Mountain or the harbour. Enjoy fresh flowers, Charlotte Rhys toiletries, an iPod docking station and complimentary Wi-Fi.
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Savour delicious fare in a locale that suits your mood: at poolside, on the terrace, in the library or your room, or at Signal Restaurant, which offers tantalising cuisine and South African flavours. Your best view is found atop the Spa at Cape Grace, where therapies incorporate ancient techniques and African products, and a private dining lounge serves sumptuous dishes.
Joy’s Camp greets you on the site of Joy Adamson’s home in Shaba National Reserve, an elegant oasis in the arid lands of Samburu in Kenya. Remember Penny the leopard, heroine of Joy's last book? This was her home, too. You overlook a natural spring 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. The result is a chic, sophisticated and stylish camp. Each luxe tent has its own private veranda, ideal for game viewing, as well as for relaxing, reading and soaking up the wild environs of Shaba. In the eastern corner of the Samburu ecosystem, Shaba is a secluded idyll – an arid landscape dotted with lush springs and rocky river gorges. Joy’s Camp is an excellent 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.
Kings Camp Private Game Reserve - Reflecting the charm and romance of a colonial past in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve Kings Camp faces an open savannah with a waterhole, which draws a wide variety of wildlife by day and night. As part of Greater Kruger National Park, which covers and area of over two million hectares, Kings Camp offers a wealth of biodiversity. Each of the nine generously proportioned colonial suites and two exquisite honeymoon suites is luxuriously equipped with a Victorian ball-and-claw bathtub, indoor and outdoor double shower, fully stocked minibar and private veranda. Each suite also features a Nespresso coffee machine, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. The spacious dining room offers stunning views of the bushveld.
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Governors' IL Moran Camp - If you are yearning for that extra-luxurious experience, Governors’ IL Moran Camp in Kenya delivers
Gorah Elephant Camp - Gorah Elephant Camp is malaria-free, 'Big Five' and a member of Relais & Châteaux The thrill of quietly observing a passing herd of elephants while enjoying tea on the veranda of a stately colonial manor house is the stuff of dreams and legends. At Gorah Elephant Camp, it is an everyday occurrence. This exclusive safari lodge with its 11 luxury tented suites recaptures the romantic mystique of authentic safaris of centuries past. The awesome natural world of Africa merges with colonial nostalgia and modern sophistication to create an unforgettable adventure. Gorah is one of the only private concessions and camps in the middle of Addo Elephant National Park, home to the densest population of elephants on earth.
Small and intimate, with a menu of special touches, this is considered one of the premier camps in the Masai Mara by many safari adventurers. Under ancient trees along the winding banks of the Mara River, deep in the forest, you will delight in ten luxuriously appointed tents, featuring super king-size beds fashioned from ancient fallen olive trees, along with Victorian-style baths. Relax as the personal guest of the on-site manager, who happily tends to each traveller's every need. The camp is positioned in the heart of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, with sensational wildlife viewing right on your doorstep. During the day, meals are served on the banks of the Mara River under giant evergreen trees. You may arrange a dinner by candlelight in the open dining tent or al fresco waterside. Governors' IL Moran Camp is an excellent choice for honeymooners and couples looking for a very special Africa safari experience.
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1. Cape Grace 2. Joy’s Camp 3. Kings Camp Private Game Reserve 4. Gorah Elephant Camp 5. Governors’ IL Moran Camp
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Spa and Wellness Revitalise your body, mind and spirit with soothing spa treatments in spectacular 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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The Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas and Spa - At The Saxon, every detail is considered, from the quality of the food to the finer points of warm hospitality, so you can expect an unforgettable stay The Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas and Spa, in Johannesburg, South Africa, prides itself on being one of the world’s leading boutique hotels. Located in the tranquil suburb of Sandhurst with its tree-lined avenues, it is also close to worldclass shopping and business venues in the heart of the city. Johannesburg is a superb gateway from which to explore the idyllic African bush and its wildlife. Let the Saxon treat you to personalised, discreet service and remarkable 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 indigenous gardens toward the city skyline. Nelson Mandela chose these serene surroundings when he was 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 Boutique Hotel, Villas and Spa is world-renowned. The crème de la crème is the recent addition of three villas nestled in the lush gardens, comprising individual suites tastefully decorated with natural woods, silks and sustainable weavings. Each villa has its own private terrace and heated plunge pool, and two of the villas also have a private spa suite. 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.
Royal Malewane - Experience the timeless magic of Royal Malewane Delight in extraordinary game viewing, fine cuisine and an award-winning spa. The six luxurious suites feature private pools and magnificent bathrooms. Expert rangers and trackers inspire and inform. And every meal is a celebration that will linger long in your memory. Feast under the stars, enraptured by the power of the wild. The Royal Malewane suites each sleep up to four guests and include a private chef, butler services and private game drives. Africa House is a child-friendly bush paradise for up to 12 guests, filled with colour and character. The private chef, butler and game drive vehicle ensure tailor-made service.
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The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa - Stand at the edge of many worlds in Cape Town Located between Table Mountain National Park, the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Town’s city lights, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is part of the family-run Red Carnation Hotel Collection. This resort is a stunning South African oasis where you can rejuvenate or celebrate in splendid luxury. It lives up to its ethos, ‘No request too large, no detail too small’. World-class facilities include an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and a rock pool with mountain views, as well as the award-winning spa – one of the few Leading Spas locations in Africa – which features a hydrotherapy bath cut into the magnificent stone setting.
1. The Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas and Spa 2. Royal Malewane 3. The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
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Luxury Lodges After travelling halfway around the world, you have arrived – and it was worth the trip. Your opulent lodge is cleverly positioned to showcase Africa’s bountiful wildlife and 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 crocodiles. As the sun sets, linger over an excellent meal. Stroll though 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 hoots of an owl, the cries of hyenas – serenade you.
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Savanna Private Game Reserve
Dulini Private Game Reserve
- Situated in the internationally famous Sabi Sand Reserve within the Kruger National Park conservancy
- Set in a peaceful South African riverine grove, Dulini's six exquisite suites all offer private views of the Mabrak River
Traverse 9,700 hectares of pristine South African bushveld, accompanied by highly experienced rangers and trackers. Enjoy exceptional safaris, with the emphasis on game viewing.
Dulini offers a deeply personal wildlife adventure – a remarkable safari experience for the sophisticated traveller. You will instantly feel at home in this quiet retreat, where classic interiors enfold guests in elegance. The six spacious suites boast plunge pools, outdoor showers and shady decks. Interiors epitomise romance, with canopies of billowing mosquito nets and beautiful bathrooms. From the privacy of the suites, which balance the grandeur of nature with elegant décor, you can delight in views of the riverbed.
Savanna Private Game Reserve has just nine beautifully appointed suites, ensuring a personal and intimate safari experience. The thatched Savanna Suite consists of two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, deck and plunge pool. These rooms lead you to a central, elegantly furnished lounge, ideal for families or small groups desiring privacy and exclusivity. All suites epitomise elegance and comfort, with contemporary décor that combines colonial and classic colours, fabrics and textures. Suites also boast air-conditioning, fans, ensuite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, and covered patios. Gourmet dining is an essential part of your Savanna Private Game Reserve experience, with local dishes adding spice to the delicious international fare. Award-winning wines complement the dynamic menus.
Enjoy a brisk workout in the well-equipped gym, or simply relax in the guest lounge on a welcoming sofa. Watch for exotic birds from the lounge patio or the magnificent deck overlooking the Mabrak River. Dine under the ancient jackalberry tree or steal away for a romantic private dinner in your suite. Browse for African handicrafts in the safari curio shop. Fine wines and dining, enhanced by the culinary traditions of Africa, complement the luxurious accommodation.
Shamwari Game Reserve - Seven uniquely styled lodges offer a distinctive ambiance against the backdrop of untamed Africa Award-winning Shamwari Game Reserve is situated in one of the largest private game reserves in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa, 45 minutes from Port Elizabeth. Its five ecosystems support many forms of plant, bird and animal life, including the 'Big Five'. Shamwari offers seven uniquely styled lodges – some custom built into their natural surroundings and others carefully restored artefacts of settler history – as well as the tented Explorer Camp. The wide range of activities includes visits to working wildlife rehabilitation and Born Free centres, a 'Kids on Safari' program, bushwalks, spa visits, stargazing and game drives.
Londolozi Private Game Reserve - Harmony, kinship and the untamed are synonymous with the Londolozi journey Londolozi is situated on the Sand River in the very heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. This reserve is part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a vast and growing area, currently covering over 24 million hectares and incorporating the famous Kruger National Park. This rich, wild wonderland provides exceptional game drives and a true wilderness experience. Breeding herds of elephants and buffalo roam throughout the Londolozi area, while white rhino and lion concentrations are among the highest recorded on the African continent. At each of the five exquisite Londolozi lodges, you will experience fantastic cuisine and superb game viewing with some of Africa’s finest rangers and trackers. Enjoy over 14,000 hectares of exceptional exploration. Londolozi is one of the original pioneering private game reserves of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and a proudly family-run, stand-alone operation.
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Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve - Spectacularly situated atop a rocky outcrop, offering magnificent views over the bush This exclusive South African lodge offers eight luxury glass-fronted suites with air-conditioning, private plunge pools, and endless views over a natural waterhole and beyond. Unwind with superb cuisine, fine vintages from the fully stocked wine cellar and optional spa treatments. Work out in the gym or simply relax in the remarkable library. Enjoy daily morning and late afternoon game drives traversing over 10,000 hectares of the renowned ‘Big Five’ Sabi Sand Game Reserve bordering worldfamous Kruger National Park. Let some of Africa’s leading expert rangers help you spot elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo and leopards.
1. Savanna Private Game Reserve 2. Dulini Private Game Reserve 3. Londolozi Private Game Reserve 4. Shamwari Game Reserve 5. Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve
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Luxury Lodges
Singita Serengeti House - A happy, vibrant place in the expansive 142,000-hectare Grumeti Reserves, conducive to bonding and making precious memories Overlooking a well-visited waterhole on the southeastern slopes of Sasakwa Hill in northern Tanzania, this welcoming exclusive-use retreat for families and friends fosters carefree, private relaxation in a home-like atmosphere. Infused with an authentic African soul, this is a space of contemporary refinement and calm appeal, where an emphasis on outdoor dining and lounging promotes round-the-clock tranquillity and ample opportunity for ‘armchair safaris’.
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Filled with light, reflecting the amber shades of the Serengeti plains beyond, the rooms are decorated with an abundance of natural fibres, materials and elements that bring the outside in. A blend of European country designs and African artefacts create a comfortable and unpretentious style. The fully staffed property, comprising two suites in the main house and a guest suite on either side, accommodates eight people. All suites feature private outdoor showers and terraces, and are connected by pathways that lead to the 25-metre rim-flow lap pool. On blissfully long afternoons, try your hand at archery, or use the private
tennis court and mountain bikes. The nearby Singita Sasakwa Lodge offers a spa and other luxury facilities. Children of all ages are welcome, and babysitting services are available. At Singita Serengeti House, al fresco living is simply the natural thing to do. The decks come alive in the evenings, gently illuminated by lamps and cooled by refreshing breezes. This is a wonderful spot from which to gaze at the night sky, taking in the sounds of the bush, or to view the herds of elephants that often linger around the waterhole. In fact, during your stay at Singita Serengeti House, you are likely to spot a great variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, bearded wildebeests, bat-eared foxes, black rhinos, Masai giraffes, lions, buffalo and leopards.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge - Situated in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge, ingeniously set among boulders and ageold tamboti trees, offers you spectacular luxury and hospitality. At the main lodge, ten ultra-luxurious glass-fronted suites – each with its own deck and private plunge pool – offer absolute privacy and majestic views. Fine cuisine is accompanied by a well-selected range of South African wines from the cellar. Separate from the main lodge is Little Madikwe Hills. This private lodge boasts a two-bedroom suite with its own Land Rover and game ranger, as well as a personal butler to take care of your every need. It is wonderful for honeymooners, couples and even families travelling with children.
Shumbalala Game Lodge Shumbalala Game Lodge has been described by many who have visited it as a feast for the senses and a journey for the soul. The exclusive property is home to a maximum of eight special guests at a time. Each spacious suite features a cosy fireplace, full ensuite bathroom and additional outside shower. Tasteful public areas include an entertainment area, relaxing lounge and dining areas, and a secluded pool.
Simbambili Game Lodge Simbambili Game Lodge is situated among dense stands of knobthorn and jackalberry trees along the meandering Manyeleti River in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, famed for its regular leopard sightings and abundance of other game species and bird life. In a lodge accommodating a maximum of 16 guests, enjoy hospitality akin to that you would receive in a comfortable home, along with charming public areas and delicious meals.
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andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve - Encompassing an impressive 23,000 hectares of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is home to Africa’s 'Big Five' (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos), as well as 415 bird species. Phinda is home to six magnificent lodges, each with its own charm and character: Mountain Lodge, Rock Lodge, Forest Lodge, Vlei Lodge, Zuka Lodge and Phinda Homestead. Situated along the edge of the rare sand forest, the sophisticated andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge is intimately integrated into the surrounding bush. Gracious and elegant, this charming lodge comprises six thatched suites decorated in a subtle blend of north and west African styles, with hints of a Balinese influence. Meanwhile, with wraparound views of the spectacular Ubombo mountain range and the surrounding Zululand bush, andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge is a dramatic safari destination ideal for families. Its 25 split-level suites crest the mountain’s edge, offering breathtaking views of the reserve below.
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1. Singita Serengeti House 2. Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge 3. Shumbalala Game Lodge 4. Simbambili Game Lodge 5. andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve
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Barefoot Chic Run barefoot through the sands of Africa’s abundant beach destinations, from Sao Tomé to Kenya and beyond. Sunbathe on Zanzibar’s sugary beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Dive the colourful waters off Mozambique. Explore an oceanfront world few visitors have had the privilege to see. Get out on the water in a myriad of ways: snorkel, sail, fish, kayak, water ski or kite 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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Omali Lodge
Kinondo Kwetu
- Expand your African experience by staying at Omali, meaning ‘ocean’ and ‘source of life’
- For those wanting a more personal experience on Kenya’s coast
A fantastic location from which to explore the wonders of the equatorial island of São Tomé in West Africa – including diving, whale-watching, sport fishing and bird-watching – this stylishly decorated boutique hotel features suites suitable for both honeymooners and families. Facilities include air-conditioned units with private bathrooms, as well as a terrace overlooking the stunning beach, Wi-Fi Internet and steam rooms. Also included are a tennis court, swimming pool with a poolside bar, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
Separated from residential neighbours by rocky cliffs and endless beach, Kinondo Kwetu is 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 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 pools, you can choose from an impressive selection of exciting activities, including kite-surfing, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, game drives, horsebackriding and yoga.
Matemwe Lodge and Matemwe Retreat
Medjumbe Private Island
- Visit Zanzibar and your dream of authentic Africa becomes reality
- Hedonistic pleasures await you at the exclusive island getaway of Medjumbe in Mozambique
At Matemwe Lodge and the smaller Matemwe Retreat, you have access to spectacular diving and snorkelling in Mnemba Atoll Marine Park. Matemwe’s peaceful location and famed relaxed atmosphere make it an idyllic place to unwind. Enjoy fresh seafood, poolside cocktails, massages or simply hanging out in a hammock. Active guests can choose from a wide range of activities.
Set like a jewel within the glittering Quirimbas Archipelago, Medjumbe is a romantic private island featuring 12 beach chalets that blend dreamily into the natural environment. Each thatched chalet offers air-conditioned luxury and a private plunge pool, while hammocks ensure essential respite.
Each of the 12 spacious chalets in the main lodge and the four luxury villas within the retreat features a large veranda overlooking the Indian Ocean. The main lodge has two swimming pools, and retreat villas offer intimate plunge pools.
Resort facilities are exclusive and subtle, designed to provide the privacy you are seeking – whether you are lounging around the pool, sipping cocktails in the tropical bar area or enjoying a relaxing massage in the spa. Medjumbe’s pristine marine environment offers exceptional diving, fishing, snorkelling, water-skiing and kayaking.
Azura on Benguerra Island - Feel totally at ease on deserted beaches of pure white sand, fronting sparkling turquoise seas Azura on Benguerra Island is Mozambique’s first luxury eco-boutique retreat and operates in partnership with local communities. Discover 16 villas mere footsteps from the beach, sporting individual plunge pools and relaxation areas. Dreamy dives abound in the sea around Azura, which offers magnificent scuba and snorkelling options, and chances to see dolphins, whales, turtles, and the rare and protected dugong. Azura also provides exceptional marlin, sailfish and tuna fishing. With wonderful cuisine, friendly Mozambican service and a vast range of experiences, including a distinctive African spa, Azura is a memorable island escape.
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Ponta Mamoli
Azura at Quilalea Private Island
- The ultimate in beach luxury set in the dunes of the untouched shores of southern Mozambique
- This hidden gem is a private, wholly unspoiled island paradise
White Pearl Resorts, Ponta Mamoli, one of Africa’s best-kept secrets, is situated on the southeastern coast of Mozambique. Delight in its sublime ocean frontage of more than one mile and pristine beach, surrounded by untouched tracts of bush. Discover a place so exhilarating, a welcome so warm and an experience so pure, you may not believe it is real. But it is.
Azura at Quilalea is an eco-friendly boutique retreat surrounded by the pristine waters of a marine sanctuary. It consists of only nine seafront villas, accommodating 18 guests. The villas are built with natural finishes, indoor and outdoor showers, private decks stretching to the beach, daybeds and sun lounges for relaxing. All guests receive Azura’s trademark Mozambican butler service.
Revel in sophisticated simplicity in one of the 21 exquisite private pool suites. Take a dip in your own plunge pool, relax on the spacious deck, cool off in a refreshing outdoor shower or retreat to the intimacy of your air-conditioned bedroom, surrounded by nature.
This paradise for lovers of marine life offers snorkelling and scuba diving straight off the beach in front of your villa. Marvel at statuesque age-old baobab groves, and stunning flora and fauna. Each year, turtles nest on one of the beaches.
1. Omali Lodge 2. Matemwe Lodge and Matemwe Retreat 3. Kinondo Kwetu 4. Medjumbe Private Island 5. Ponta Mamoli 6. Azura on Benguerra Island 7. Azura at Quilalea Private Island
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Somalisa Camp Set your senses free inside Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and discover Somalisa Camp, a popular choice for guests seeking an exciting safari and memories of majestic elephants. The six elegant tents awaiting your arrival are nestled under a canopy of acacias at the edge of an ancient seasonal floodplain. The camp offers breathtaking views, luxurious accommodation, exceptional service and delicious, fresh cuisine.
Family
Robin's House, Robin Pope Safaris
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. 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 salt pan, visiting a local village to meet and play with African children. At your superbly equipped accommodations, splash in an infinity pool, then share tales of the day’s adventures over a fabulous dinner.
Set on the banks of the Luangwa River, this house has amazing views of animals coming down for a drink. The private two-bedroom house is superb for families, honeymooners and guests looking for privacy. A grove of mahogany and ebony trees shading the front of the house is a perfect lunch site. Your private guide, vehicle, kitchen and chef give you total flexibility.
Elsa's Kopje - Heaven for romantics in an elegant Kenyan lodge
Camp Kalahari - A great option if you seek fun and action, without sacrificing comfort and style Camp Kalahari in Botswana evokes the traditional safari style of the original African explorers. Children of all ages are welcome, making this an excellent choice for a memorable family safari. Your extensive activity menu includes interacting with habituated meerkats, walking with Bushmen guides, joining game drives to experience desert wildlife, visiting Chapman’s Baobab, birdwatching for exotic species and participating in night drives.
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Explore the salt pans on quad bikes during the dry season, and delight in the incredible spectacle of the zebra and wildebeest migration during the wet season.
Remember Elsa the lioness, made famous by George and Joy Adamson’s iconic book ‘Born Free’? Named after this lioness, Elsa’s Kopje is one of the most elegant lodges in Africa, with a spectacular setting above George Adamson’s original tented home in Meru National Park. Almost invisible as you approach, Elsa's Kopje blends into the rocky crags of a 'kopje' (small hill). The nine spacious cottages boast fantastic views, incorporate natural features of the rocky hillside, and feature elegantly appointed ensuite bathrooms and private verandas. There is an open bar, lounge and dining room, plus an exceptionally inviting infinity pool with endless views over the Meru Plains. Elsa’s Private House is an exclusive hideaway set apart from the main lodge. Highlighted by two ensuite bedrooms and a spacious living area, it opens seamlessly to the private garden and swimming pool. Elsa’s Honeymoon Suite is a triple-level unit, including a sitting room, ensuite bedroom and breathtaking views.
Kapani Lodge
Kwando Safaris - Enjoy a vintage desert-to-delta family safari in Botswana Distinctive and luxurious, Kwando’s Botswana camps are professionally staffed and offer personalised service, together with a large menu of delights for your family. The focus here is on the safari and the wildlife, and on providing the trip of a lifetime. The magic of an African safari is like no other and will have your children hooked on wildlife, conservation and nature. When your family arrives, a seasoned guide will organise your itinerary, and family safari packages include a private vehicle with tracker. Kwando gives you the opportunity to introduce your children to a safe yet wild Africa – all 685 hectares of it.
Built by conservationist Norman Carr and his home until his death in 1997, this nine-room lodge sits on a ridge above Kapani Lagoon. Its location next to Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park means elephants and hippos regularly wander through camp. Kapani offers great value and is good for families, groups and guests enjoying their first safari experience before heading to one of the park’s more remote bush camps.
Baraza Resort and Spa Located on Bwejuu Beach, Baraza Resort and Spa was voted one of 'The 60 Best New Hotels in the World' by Condé Nast Traveller magazine. With just 30 villas, this stunning resort evokes the heritage of Zanzibar, dating back to the era of the sultans. It fuses Arabic, Swahili and Indian design, with Swahili arches, hand-carved cement décor, beautiful antiques, handmade furniture and intricate brass lanterns.
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Borana Lodge
Planet Baobab
- Borana Lodge provides guests an idyllic setting for any African experience
- Marvel at the giant baobab trees surrounding Planet Baobab in Botswana
Fully hosted Borana Lodge, a family-owned eco-lodge, is located on the vast Laikipia Plateau. Be enthralled by the snow-tipped peaks and glaciers of Mount Kenya to the south, or the panorama of mountains and desert to the north.
Planet Baobab combines style with comfort while remaining true to its African inspiration. Discover traditionally styled lodgings, ensuite Kalanga huts, one of the largest pools in the Kalahari, a funky bar and a friendly restaurant.
Organically constructed using local building materials and dead wood collected from the ranch, Borana Lodge is supremely comfortable and luxuriously in harmony with its surroundings. Explore wild and beautiful landscapes by vehicle, horse, foot or mountain bike, and get close to endangered African wildlife species in their own habitat.
Choose from a range of on-site activities, including guided bushwalks, traditional cattle post and village outings, habituated meerkat treks, and expeditions to Nxai Pan. During the dry season, explore these salt pans on quad bikes and sleep under the stars. During the wet season, succumb to astonishment while watching the zebra and wildebeest migration.
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1. Somalisa Camp 2. Robin’s House, Robin Pope Safaris 3. Camp Kalahari 4. Elsa’s Kopje 5. Kwando Safaris 6. Borana Lodge 7. Kapani Lodge 8. Baraza Resort and Spa 9. Planet Baobab
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Coastal Retreat Move seamlessly between worlds, from up-to-the-minute interior chic to timeless outdoor vistas. Stroll from your opulent room or villa to a sparkling pool overlooking the endless ocean. Meander along sundappled 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? Perhaps a whale-watching trip or a guided hike? Ask the caring staff to make it so. Cocooned in luxurious serenity, feel your cares evaporate under the warm African sun.
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The Oyster Box - South African memories to last a lifetime Standing proudly on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean, the 86-room Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s best-loved hotels. Renowned for generous hospitality, attentive service and exceptional cuisine, The Oyster Box offers all the colonial charm and nostalgia of a bygone era, but with all the modern comforts and amenities. Facilities include a magnificent spa (a member of Leading Spas of the World), two swimming pools, luscious gardens alive with the chatter of monkeys and exotic birdsong, and a 24-seat movie theatre. The family-run hotel is one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premiere destinations.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar - Take a deep breath of fresh Indian Ocean air and relax at this luxury Zanzibar hotel Essque Zalu Zanzibar combines contemporary opulence with a real sense of place. This boutique hotel has the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean on one side and lush green forest on the other, with just a hint of spice in the warm and fragrant tropical air. Choose from 40 suites, all with picturesque views over the tropical garden or the glittering ocean. Ensconce yourself in luxurious spaces crafted from local materials, adorned with native artwork and housed under a traditional pitched Makuti roof. If you need extra space, select one of the nine expansive villas. Stretch out in the spacious living room, unwind in your own massage area, rustle up a snack in your own kitchen, laze on the terrace overlooking the garden or just chill in the privacy of your very own swimming pool. Satisfy your taste buds with a choice of three distinctive Zanzibar restaurants, a scrumptious café and three well-stocked bars, or dial a mixologist to come to your suite and shake a tailor-made cocktail.
Birkenhead House - Relaxation is the order of the day Relish the cliff-top panorama from the Birkenhead House, which thrills guests with stunning ocean views and beach access in the Hermanus area of South Africa. Opulent contemporary styling unfolds throughout 11 luxurious suites, while Birkenhead Villa is the child-friendly alternative with five suites in classic white. Glamorous interiors, informal ambience, private chefs, delicious international cuisine, and a scenic location combine to create remarkable beach and ocean memories. Enjoy complimentary transfers to town, and choose from local activities such as hiking, whale-watching (June to November), golf and even shark-cage diving.
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Sindabezi Island Sindabezi Island is almost hidden, an idyllic bush camp camouflaged on a private isle in the Zambezi River. Sleeping only ten guests, five romantic chalets are draped in swaths of dreamy fabrics and raised over the water on wooden platforms. This unforgettable camp is built from sustainable forests and utilises only renewable resources. You will be pleased to know neither expense nor imagination was spared in the décor.
Island Paradise Mention mythical names such as Zanzibar, Lake Malawi, Príncipe, the Zambezi River 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-alifetime wildlife adventures and enjoy the ultimate in secluded holiday bliss. Allow caring staff to pamper you on a luxurious private island retreat.
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Wilderness Safaris Mumbo Island Camp
Wilderness Safaris North Island
Travel across the blue waters of Lake Malawi National Park to pristine, tropical Mumbo Island. With only seven rooms you will have this delightful environment almost to yourself. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and innumerable species of cichlid fish, enjoy freshwater scuba diving, dhow boat trips, snorkelling, and quiet walks through miombo, fig and baobab woodlands.
Kilindi Zanzibar
North Island is a paradise in the Seychelles – a sanctuary for those seeking an unspoiled tropical haven. The 11 exquisite hand-crafted villas provide exclusivity, a superb location, excellent service and luxurious facilities, including a health spa, gym, dive centre, swimming pool, pristine beaches, and a chance to help restore flora, fauna, and wildlife.
Kilindi Zanzibar features a series of whitedomed pavilion suites set within 14 hectares of lush tropical gardens. It is a rarity in the world of luxury boutique hotels. Those who can break away from the privacy of their personal Eden discover a 25-metre infinity pool, massage therapy suite, water-wall cocktail bar, and white coral sand beach on the Indian Ocean for diving, sailing and snorkelling.
andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge
Bom Bom Island Resort
- Discover an unpretentious paradise on a private island off the tip of Zanzibar
- Discover an intriguing blend of African cultures and Portuguese traditions in a tropical ecosystem
Pure barefoot bliss is the allure of andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge, where the song of doves and the smell of coconut bread baking in a wood stove greet the dawn.
Recharge your spirit at the exclusive Bom Bom Island Resort, hidden on the northern shore of the tropical island of Príncipe. In a virtually undiscovered Atlantic Ocean paradise close to Gabon, explore dense rainforests teeming with exotic birds, watch whales sporting playfully off unspoiled, deserted beaches, and admire crystal-clear waterfalls cascading into the azure ocean.
Mnemba offers just ten rustic palm-frond bandas, tucked into a tropical forest fringed by a white coral sand beach. In each, a covered walkway leads to a shuttered ensuite bathroom with a huge glass-beaded shower curtain. Built-in barazas on the veranda are perfect for afternoon siestas, and private beach salas feature traditional Zanzibari lounges ideal for languid hours. Thatched dining, sitting and bar areas boast beautiful open views of the beach.
Friendly residents and attentive staff are happy to prove Bom Bom Island Resort is a true haven of luxury and calm. Offering two private beaches and comfortable, secluded accommodation, Bom Bom will infuse your body, mind and spirit with new energy.
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1. Sindabezi Island 2. Wilderness Safaris North Island 3. andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge 4. Wilderness Safaris Mumbo Island Camp 5. Kilindi Zanzibar 6. Bom Bom Island Resort
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Off The Beaten Track Just because you have travelled far from the crowds, you do not have to do without luxurious accommodations, superb service and exclusive experiences. Gaze in wonder at endless horizons, rich waterways, vast desert salt pans and thousands of animals thundering across plains. Sip sundowners around the dancing flames of a campfire, as you listen for the calls of nocturnal animals in the distance. Compiling your own collection of African wilderness memories can be a life-changing experience, distinctly different from holidaying on a scheduled itinerary at a large resort or in a bustling city. Escape to an African sanctuary.
Oliver's Camp - Deep inside the southern section of spectacular Tarangire National Park, discover Oliver's Camp One of the best-kept secrets among travellers seeking a real bush experience, this luxury camp of ten beautifully appointed tents is close to the animal-dense Silale Swamps. Set in the secluded Tarangire National Park, it celebrates back-tobasics luxury in one of the most uncrowded corners of East Africa. Some of the best guides in the business lead you through a landscape boasting everything from herds of buffalo to baobab forests. Feel the dust of Africa beneath your boots on a walking safari. Drink in the cool moist air of a night drive. Allow the scent of warm rain to fill your nostrils. This is Africa, untamed – just as it should be.
Sand Rivers Selous Set on a wide curve of the Rufiji River in Tanzania, Sand Rivers Selous has been a well-loved location for safari buffs since the 1980s, when founder Richard Bonham discovered the lodge on one of his famous portered walking safaris. Offering only eight rooms but beautifully built, it is grand yet cosy, with open-fronted stone and thatch cottages overlooking the river, and amazing untamed beasts frequenting the shore.
Wilderness Safaris Kalahari Plains Camp
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Nestled in the northeast corner of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in Botswana, this legendary place has outstanding wildlife. Your camp comprises ten ensuite canvas units, with 'star beds' that help you enjoy stunning night skies to the fullest. Game drives and San Bushman experiences give you insights into the area’s unique terrain, culture and wildlife.
ol Donyo Lodge - Discover a conservation-conscious, service-oriented lodge that is also rich in history Imagine 111,288 hectares of scenic Africa where the wildlife roams free, far from tourists in mini-buses on set schedules. Travel across the archetypal East African savannah in an open 4WD game drive vehicle, feel the rhythm of Africa beneath your feet as you walk with expert trackers or go horseback-riding with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. Delight in exploring this paradise, 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. Great Plains Conservation's ol Donyo Lodge is located on the slopes of Chyulu Hills National Park, between Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks in southeast Kenya. Kenya's only Relais & Châteaux property, it offers full views of Mount Kilimanjaro and is a wonderful place to enjoy the seasonal elephant migrations.
Chada Katavi - About as far away as you can possibly get from the tourist circuit Katavi National Park remains one of Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences. Even today, few people have been lucky enough to visit this park in the far west of Tanzania. Far from anywhere, it has mythical status, while being close to a great density of mammals. The last great herds of buffalo in East Africa mass in the millions nearby. Rivers groan with hippopotamuses and crocodiles, while everywhere you look, creatures are grazing, bellowing, fighting, mating or hunting. Chada Katavi’s 12-bed camp boasts comfortable safari Jeeps, personal guides and simple, delicious food. It also features bucket showers and flush toilets.
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Kwihala
Saruni Samburu
- Spectacular concentrations of wildlife in a beautifully diverse landscape
- Far off the beaten track but very close to the wildlife
Kwihala is a small camp of just six well-spaced tents in magnificent Ruaha National Park. Well off the beaten track, Kwihala combines raw beauty with simple excellence. This new safari frontier in Tanzania offers an unconstrained landscape of baobab forests, granite kopjes, open plains, cooling rivers and woodland valleys. Largely unexplored, Ruaha is as remote as you can get in East Africa. Few have heard of it. None will forget it. Located close to the Mwagusi River, Kwihala offers far-reaching views and easy access to the park’s core game activity. Get that little bit closer to Africa’s wildlife, while revelling in your creature comforts.
Perched atop the Kalama Mountains of northern Kenya with a view all the way to snow-covered Mount Kenya, Saruni Samburu is a design lodge that brings a fresh concept to a well-known safari destination. Built on pristine land owned by the Kalama Wildlife Conservancy, it is only four miles from the Samburu National Reserve, a celebrated elephant sanctuary. The lodge offers a first-class safari experience. It features six villas, two large swimming pools with dramatic views over Samburuland, and a waterhole that attracts elephants, reticulated giraffes, zebras, oryx and all the other species that make Kalama so special.
1. Oliver’s Camp 2. Sand Rivers Selous 3. Wilderness Safaris Kalahari Plains Camp 4. ol Donyo Lodge 5. Chada Katavi 6. Kwihala 7. Saruni Samburu
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MalariaFree 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 leopards, rhinos and other magnificent creatures on thrilling game drives. By night, unwind in an airy suite overlooking a stunning game reserve.
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Solio Lodge - A sophisticated enclave, Solio Lodge is also one of the best places to see black and white rhinos in all of Africa Neatly tucked away in between the majestic slopes of Mount Kenya and the Aberdares Mountains, Solio Lodge offers the exclusivity of a private ranch and an awe-inspiring wildlife experience. This modern and exciting lodge is the only property in the 7,690-hectare Solio rhino sanctuary, which is set within the 18,210-hectare Solio Ranch. This was one of the first private conservancies in Kenya and is today one of the country’s best-kept secrets. With more than 200 endangered black and white rhinos living in harmony alongside other African wildlife – such as leopards, lions and a wide variety of birds – the location offers an intense wildlife experience. Diverse activities are available for guests of all energy levels. Soaking up the magnificent beauty of Mount Kenya is definitely an option, but so are walking and mountain-biking, horseback-riding, and a 4WD safari in the rhino sanctuary. The lodge is also an excellent starting point for scenic helicopter flights up Mount Kenya, and it offers easy road access to Aberdares National Park.
The lodge has just six luxurious rooms. Each has a private lounge area warmed by a corner fire, as well as a large ensuite bathroom with double sink, bath and shower. And the ensuites feature enormous windows that allow you to take in panoramic views of the landscape, including Mount Kenya. The guestrooms are designed for both warmth (Solio is high in altitude and can be cold at night) and outdoor living, with each having a deck in front for relaxation during the day. You will also find some of the most mouth-watering food in all of Kenya at Solio Lodge. Savour these wonderful meals in the bush, on the deck, in the main dining room or privately in the comfort of your cottage.
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat - Discover ancient Bushman rock art, abundant flora and wildlife galore This serene property is an ecological oasis nestled in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, 168 miles from Cape Town, South Africa. Its 16 guestrooms and suites are secluded in a lush garden setting, offering calm, exclusivity and privacy in a malaria- and predator-free environment. Koro Lodge, an existing farmhouse in the reserve, has been completely renovated and transformed to become a spectacular, intimate villa. It is great for families and groups of up to ten friends, offering a private host, chef and guide to look after your needs.
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Tuningi Safari Lodge
Mhondoro Game Lodge
- Considered one of the best child-friendly luxury lodges in South Africa
- Be surprised by this distinctive lodge, set in the breathtakingly beautiful province of Limpopo
Situated in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve and just a three-and-a-halfhour drive from Johannesburg, Tuningi Safari Lodge offers highly personalised service in a friendly environment. It is one of only a few lodges in a 'Big Five' reserve specialising in families with children of all ages. It offers activities and game drives for children, and qualified babysitters are available.
Mhondoro Game Lodge is set in the heart of the magnificent malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve. The luxurious lodge is a superb getaway for the discerning traveller and offers deluxe accommodation coupled with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Only a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Johannesburg and set on a rocky outcrop, the lodge boasts sweeping views of the unspoilt, pristine African bushveld. Road transfers or chartered flights can be arranged on request.
As well as indoor and outdoor lounges, the main lodge has a dining room, bar, wraparound wooden deck and rim-flow pool overlooking a waterhole. There are four luxury suites and two family suites, each consisting of two rooms, an adjoining living area and a private deck.
Mhondoro Game Lodge offers four exclusive villas, three deluxe villas and one presidential villa. Services include massages, a curio shop, laundry and babysitting.
1. Solio Lodge 2. Tuningi Safari Lodge 3. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat 4. Mhondoro Game Lodge
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Style, Design and Interiors Expect breathtaking surroundings and inspired accommodations throughout Africa. Sip a steaming mug of fragrant coffee at dawn from a private deck with a jaw-dropping ocean view. Stay in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. 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 ambiance. Your choices include a riverfront villa with a private pool, an urban retreat with butler service and a wine country estate decorated with dramatic art. These African lodgings reflect the pinnacle of modern design artistry.
Babylonstoren - History calls you to Babylonstoren, close to Franschhoek in the Winelands of South Africa Visit the lovely heritage estate of Babylonstoren, where layers of stories remain at the core of a working farm transformed into a unique country getaway. Today, enjoy the wellness centre, guided tours of the gardens, wine cellar, swimming pool, and hiking and cycling trails. The property provides travellers with deluxe comfort and an innovative restaurant, supplied by a magnificent kitchen garden. You can also enjoy the ultimate privilege of picking your own fresh fruits and vegetables. Interiors are appropriately sparse yet utterly luxurious, combining modern basics with antique furnishings and designer touches.
The Light House Boutique Suites - Enjoy an experience of distinction at this beautifully understated, enchanting and welcoming Cape Winelands jewel in Paarl The Light House Boutique Suites delight in putting the emphasis on lifestyle. Whether you are on your honeymoon or simply enjoying a long-awaited holiday, you will find relaxed refinement, privacy, discretion, outstanding personal service, beauty, and an absorbing sense of peacefulness and tranquillity – in short, an elegant escape.
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Each of the five creatively themed luxury suites is named to reflect its wellappointed interior design and decoration. Each expresses impeccable luxury, with eclectic hints of Africa and international glamour, through an unexpected mix of gorgeous fabrics, bespoke furniture and carefully selected objects d'art. A very light colour palette enhanced by natural light accentuates each space to create a restful mood and atmosphere. The interior decoration of The Light House Boutique Suites is not about trends or fleeting moments, but about values and things that last. The property also offers delectable cuisine. All the produce is fresh and locally sourced.
Jack's Camp - 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 combine to create an experience that differs from any other. A safari to Jack's Camp is the complete desert experience with two distinct seasons: during the wet season, enjoy the incredible sight of the zebra and wildebeest migration; in dry season, explore the salt pans on quad bikes. Activities on offer year-round include going on game drives to search for desertadapted species, such as brown hyena, aardwolf and aardvark; spending time with habituated, friendly meerkats; walking with the Bushmen; and visiting Chapman’s Baobab.
Chinzombo
26 Sunset Avenue Llandudno
- Wildly luxurious, Chinzombo (which opened in June 2013) brings a new level of style, comfort and elegance to the Luangwa Valley
- Come and experience barefoot luxury on Sunset Rocks
Chinzombo is the next generation of Zambian bush camp. Architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, the visionaries behind North Island, Seychelles, have created six sublime villas, including a two-bedroom designed for families. Each villa has a private pool, cooled sleeping areas, spacious bathrooms, private deck, lounge area and Wi-Fi. The ground-breaking design – which incorporates natural materials, and locally produced reed work and furniture – complements the wilderness. The villas are nestled in the shade of magnificent trees on a ridge above a bend in the Luangwa River. The 24-hectare riverside location teems with wildlife and has direct private access to South Luangwa National Park on the opposite river bank – an area known for leopard, lion and big game viewing. Chinzombo is the base for some of the most senior members of Norman Carr Safaris’ guiding team and a great place from which to start or end your safari to some of the bush camps in the heart of the Park.
This ultra-luxurious, exclusive property nestles on the slopes of the Atlantic Seaboard next to the Sandy Bay Nature Reserve in the prestigious Cape Town suburb of Llandudno. Designed by an award-winning architect, 26 Sunset Avenue Llandudno is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Enjoy wellappointed accommodation with butler service from the moment you arise until you turn in for the night. The friendly team is at your service at all times, while staying discreetly in the background to allow you to feel completely at home. Guests awake each day to spectacular sea and mountain views from six identical suites, before enjoying a champagne breakfast prepared by the personal chef. Later in the day, succumb to bliss while indulging in cocktails and canapés while watching the sunset from the 80-square-metre main deck. Delight in 180-degree views of the ocean, as the waves crash a mere 130 metres away.
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1,2,5 1. The Light House Boutique Suites 2. Babylonstoren 3. Jack’s Camp 4. Chinzombo 5. 26 Sunset Avenue Llandudno
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Kicheche Laikipia Camp
Bush Camps 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 ensuite 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 when you spot elephants, rhinos, impalas, hippos, giraffes, cheetahs, lions or wildebeest. At night, under a starry sky, relish fine cuisine and superb service.
Nsolo Camp - Nsolo is the quintessential ‘barefoot luxury’ bush camp The four spacious chalets raised on wooden decks nestle in the shade of huge ancient trees. Open, ensuite bathrooms provide a surprisingly excellent spot to watch game wander by. Nsolo Camp offers a huge range of game viewing. You will likely see wild dogs around camp, and buffalo and lions during walking safaris and game drives. The camp is situated on an elephant path and has a family of honey badgers, so there is always plenty going on. For an unforgettable night, try the ‘Return to the Wild’ sleepout. Fall asleep under just a mosquito net and the stars in the middle of a white sand river bed. The adventure includes your own chef, guide and scout.
Wilderness Safaris Busanga Bush Camp
Wilderness Safaris Little Makalolo Camp
- Stay in the heart of Kafue National Park's Busanga Plains in Zambia
- Stand by for the afternoon waterhole party
Busanga Bush Camp accommodates just eight fortunate guests in four wellappointed tents. The lounge area is under canvas, looking out over the plains, and your breakfast is often served here.
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This luxurious camp in the shadows of Mount Kenya overlooks a waterhole in Ol Pejeta Conservancy – a 36,421-hectare private wildlife conservancy, home to the world's last population of northern white rhinos. With six sumptuous tented suites and refined cuisine, the camp offers an intimate bush experience. Activities include day and night game drives, guided walks, canoeing, mountain-biking, and lion tracking.
Activities include game drives, walking safaris and night drives, led by qualified guides in one of Zambia’s most diverse landscapes, which teems with birds and other wildlife. Thanks to the mist rising from the floodplains as they dry up in winter, you may experience incredible sunrises and sunsets in spectacular hues of pink, gold and red.
Zimbabwe’s Little Makalolo Camp lies in one of Hwange National Park’s best wildlife viewing areas. It offers privacy for guests who enjoy small camps and a sense of remoteness. The camp’s six spacious ensuite tents, with both indoor and outdoor showers, are nestled among the trees. 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 many waterholes attract game in both quantity and variety throughout the year.
Nkorombo Camp - ‘Location, location, location' is as important as ever, and Nkorombo Camp has it in spades The Masai Mara – made famous by the BBC’s 'Big Cat Diaries' and, more recently, by Disney’s 'African Cats' – is the predators’ prime real estate. Hidden away among a stand of wild olive and orange croton, Alex Walker’s Nkorombo Camp flanks a lively salt lick, a refuge for black rhinos. Lions and leopards prowl about, stalking a lavish overabundance of plucky prey. This snug little bush camp is chockfull of singular character. The five tents command a view of the rushing Mara River, rich with laughing hippos and languorous crocodiles. True to its unpretentious origins, the camp is a low-key and tranquil retreat.
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Wilderness Safaris Davison's Camp
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- A premier wildlife viewing retreat Go deep inside Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park to the southeastern Linkwasha Concession to discover Davison's Camp. At this classic African tented camp, lodgings are tastefully hidden beneath a grove of false mopane trees, overlooking a waterhole and open plains. The tents and the separate main area – comprising a lounge, dining room, and open campfire area and pool – look out over a waterhole that is very popular with wildlife. Activities at Davison's Camp include game drives in open vehicles and guided early-morning walks. During siesta hours, you may view wildlife arriving at the waterhole from your tent's veranda or the main areas. Often, lucky visitors see elephants visiting the camp proper. Game viewing is lively year-round in the Linkwasha Concession, and your list of frequently encountered wildlife will include large herds of elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, white rhinos, spotted hyenas, southern giraffes, sables, blue wildebeest, impalas, common waterbucks and elands.
Chobe Elephant Camp - Chobe Elephant Camp offers its guests a true African adventure High on the edge of a rocky ridge overlooking the famous Chobe River is the Chobe Elephant Camp. This superb lodge has been designed to take advantage of the incredible views of sweeping floodplains while offering a comfortable refuge from the harsh African conditions. Built from the same red Kalahari sands that dominate the northern part of Botswana, this eco-friendly lodge is ideally positioned to take advantage of everything this incredible destination has to offer – be it the spectacular wildlife for which the Chobe River is famous, or the opportunity to interact with members of the local Sibuya tribe.
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1. Nsolo Camp 2. Wilderness Safaris Busanga Bush Camp 3. Kicheche Laikipia Camp 4. Wilderness Safaris Little Makalolo Camp 5. Wilderness Safaris Davison’s Camp 6. Nkorombo Camp 7. Chobe Elephant Camp
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Traditional Safari Camps Indulge your lifelong dreams of African adventure with an extended stay in one of the continent’s romantic camps. Delight in wildlife thrills under the expert care of knowledgeable guides who have spent their whole lives in this stunning wilderness. Keep your binoculars ready to glimpse wildlife in their native habitats: floodplains, woodlands and lagoons. Toast your fellow travellers with vintage wines and savour authentic African dishes. Enjoy luxury amenities such as Egyptian bed linens, hot showers and private ensuite facilities. Create priceless African memories in a safari camp straight out of a classic novel.
Ngare Serian
Nkwali, Robin Pope Safaris
- Fit for the more audacious voyager who seeks out the raw character of safari
- Located on Robin Pope Safaris' private land, overlooking South Luangwa National Park
Nestled in the private Mara North Conservancy and inextricably linked to the Masai Mara, an extraordinary wildlife destination awaits. Scenically, it epitomises Africa: rolling plains that clearly throb with life, a lone acacia against the azure sky, the sinuous Mara River.
This landscape is superb game viewing country, with a beautiful area of ebony woodland and open grass plains. Elephants often cross the Luangwa River, which you can see from the bar, or come to the waterhole near the thatched dining area. The six chalets are cool and spacious, each with a view of the river.
This serene refuge may not suit those who seek tame, barren surroundings. Because of its intimate and select character, Ngare Serian is an excellent choice for private groups of family or close friends, who can book the four-tent camp in its entirety. Ngare Serian offers night and day game drives, river fishing, photographic workshops and, most importantly, top-quality guides.
Open throughout the year, the camp also has direct access to South Luangwa National Park by boat or vehicle. During the dry months, the camp operates a pontoon into the southern part of the park.
Jock Safari Lodge
Wilderness Safaris Shumba Camp
- Jock Safari Lodge beckons travellers to explore the southern area of Kruger National Park
- Elegance on the diverse Busanga Plains
Retreat to the confluence of Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers, halfway between Skukuza and Malelane. It is a 21-mile drive to Skukuza airstrip, or 93 miles to the Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport. Stay in one of two luxury lodges steeped in elegant settler history and reflecting elegant bygone eras, or an explorer camp that transports you back in time with meticulously recreated camp beds and canvas washing basins.
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Daily game drives with guides and walking safaris led by professional rangers offer close encounters with African wildlife. The 'Big Five' game viewing in Kruger National Park is spectacular.
Shumba Camp’s central location on the Busanga Plains in Zambia is home to hundreds of red lechwe, ubiquitous pukus, stately roans and diminutive oribis. ‘Shumba ‘means ‘lion’, and you will see large prides here, some with more than 20 animals. Enjoy easy access to a mix of seasonal and permanent floodplains, and watch for more than 500 species of birds. Shumba Camp’s six spacious luxury tents – filled with natural fabrics, furnishings and art – are raised on wooden platforms overlooking Kafue National Park. The large ensuite rooms feature both indoor and outdoor showers. Elevated dining and bar areas offer sensational views of the sunrise.
Wilderness Safaris Chitabe Camp - Play peekaboo with spectacular birdlife and wild game at Chitabe Camp Situated on a beautiful island in the southeast Okavango Delta of Botswana, Chitabe Camp offers prime viewing of wildlife ranging from giraffes and elephants to lions, leopards and wild dogs. Enjoy day and night game drives, nature walks and supreme birding. The eight spacious ensuite tents give you a stellar view from their elevated wooden decks. Each Meru-style tent is decorated with superb wildlife photographs, and offers indoor and outdoor showers. The central part of the camp includes a thatched dining area, bar and lounge leading onto an open veranda. Delight in cool sanctuary in the heat of the day in the swimming pool.
Wilderness Safaris Savuti Camp Elephant Pepper Camp - Rewarding you with a prime game viewing area inside the Masai Mara, in the core of the protected Mara North Conservancy in Kenya In the same location for over 20 years, Elephant Pepper Camp is one of the Masai Mara's original, very small and exclusive tented camps. It is located far from other lodges, in the heart of the African bush. The nine spacious canvas tents, including one honeymoon tent, are comfortably furnished and feature ensuite bathrooms, flush toilets, traditional safari showers, hammocks and private verandas. Elephant Pepper Camp creates a truly authentic safari experience. Enjoy extended game drives in premier 4WD vehicles, which ensure you have an eminently memorable wildlife experience in this vast natural domain. Return to camp under the namesake elephant pepper trees after a thrilling afternoon game drive. Nothing rivals sitting around the campfire, enjoying a warming 'sundowner' to the symphony of your wild surroundings.
Savuti Camp is located on Botswana's Savute Channel, home to hippos, diverse aquatic life and a myriad of waterbirds. The camp boasts seven large walk-in, ensuite tents that are raised off the ground. From the camp's thatched dining area, a plunge pool and large viewing area with a fire pit extend outward on raised wooden decks, providing a wonderful view of the water and its wildlife.
Wilderness Safaris DumaTau Camp Watch hippos from the new DumaTau Camp, by the water's edge in a private concession, near the source of Botswana’s Savute Channel. Your drive along this waterway will be one of the highlights of your adventures in the western Linyanti concession, bordering Chobe National Park. You may spot wildlife and birds on day and night drives, or while walking beside or boating on the serene waters of the Linyanti River.
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1. Ngare Serian 2. Jock Safari Lodge 3. Nkwali, Robin Pope Safaris 4. Wilderness Safaris Shumba Camp 5. Elephant Pepper Camp 6. Wilderness Safaris Chitabe Camp 7. Wilderness Safaris Savuti Camp 8. Wilderness Safaris DumaTau Camp
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Luxury Tented Camps 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 chilled towels after a hot safari. 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.
Zarafa Camp - An excellent choice for those looking for extra privacy or travelling in a small family group Great Plains Conservation's Zarafa Camp, Botswana's only member of Relais & Châteaux, is found inside the 129,500-hectare private Selinda Reserve in Botswana. It is synonymous with exclusivity, opulence and wildlife. Zarafa Camp sits on an island in the floodplain of Zibadianja Lagoon, source of the Savute Channel, in a prime wildlife-viewing area. Adventures in this vast region defy imagination. Explore it on foot, in a 4WD open game drive vehicle or by pontoon boat.
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Each of the camp’s four immense Marquis tent-suites is raised on wooden decks and shaded by a canopy of African ebony and red ivory trees. Each offers uninterrupted views, a private plunge pool and an outdoor shower. Zarafa's Dhow Suites, an exclusive new unit, consists of two large, Marquis-style tents on a private deck overlooking the Zibadianja Lagoon, along with a private pool. Your nightly rate includes the services of your own private chef and use of a game drive vehicle with guide.
Serengeti Migration Camp - The Serengeti is magnificent beyond belief Serengeti Migration Camp embodies the ‘camp’ experience. Located next to the famous Grumeti River, home to resident hippos that bark and wallow their days away, the camp has become synonymous with low-impact, high-action game viewing in a landscape untouched by time. Hidden among rocky outcrops at a migration starting point, the camp blends seamlessly into the environment. It comprises 20 luxurious elevated tents, each with spacious and richly furnished bedrooms. The main tent has a split-level lounge, swimming pool, restaurant and platforms that offer panoramic views across the river and the rugged landscape beyond.
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Chief's Luxury Mobile Safari Camp - Dim the lights, roll up your window flaps and reflect on an exhilarating day as a symphony of night sounds fills your tent This mobile safari camp serves incentive and conference groups across southern Africa. Frequently used locations include the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, other game reserves, national parks and other spectacular destinations. The camp features three safari tent options, including the range-topping luxury tent, colonial tent and safari dome tent. The camp can accommodate groups as large as 400 guests. It can also provide an unforgettable trip for groups as small as 20 guests, as in the case of the Namaqualand Flower Camp, which is established in Namaqua National Park during the peak of the flower season. For the incentive market, the camp provides a unique opportunity to create a truly tailor-made safari experience that guests are unlikely to repeat. Freshly prepared meals, comfortable accommodation and exciting activities are rivalled only by attentive staff members and managers, all of which combine to ensure an authentic adventure.
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Sango Safari Camp - Nestled in the shade of the trees overlooking the Khwai River Run by the Sango family, who have lived in the area for many generations, this camp has a warm and friendly atmosphere. Situated on the outskirts of the traditional village of Khwai and on the border of the Moremi Game Reserve, it is a superb base from which to explore the wildlife and culture of this fascinating region. Take part in game drives, bushwalks and mokoro excursions to discover amazing animals and dramatic landscapes. Designed in the style of the tented safari camp of days gone by, the camp accommodates 12 guests in six ensuite Meru tents with open-air bucket showers and hand-crafted furnishings.
1. Zarafa Camp 2. Chief’s Luxury Mobile Safari Camp 3. Serengeti Migration Camp 4. Sango Safari Camp
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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 – such as fully equipped kitchens and relaxing living spaces – embellished with butler service, private plunge pools, exclusive game viewing platforms, and the use of rugged vehicles and sleek boats. With an intimate group of congenial companions, share the untouched magic of wild landscapes like Malawi's South Luangwa National Park or Zambia's Zambezi River.
Luangwa Safari House, Robin Pope Safaris - A stay at Luangwa House is ideal for those looking for a personalised, private safari experience Marvel at the original African design of Luangwa Safari House, a luxury lodge overlooking a lagoon with the Chindeni Hills as a backdrop. Wildlife, including elephants and giraffes, are regular visitors, and guests occasionally see animal kills first hand from the house. The view is truly stunning, with one side of your lodgings open to the bush. Each of the 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 a raised walkway with a view of the waterhole. The plunge pool also overlooks the lagoon, creating a dream-like experience.
Impodimo Game Lodge - Situated in the malaria-free 'Big Five' Madikwe Game Reserve Impodimo Game Lodge is set along a rocky ridge commanding stunning vistas of the reserve. Located at the source of a natural spring, it offers riverine serenity.
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This luxury lodge features a safari unit consisting of two-bedrooms, each with a full ensuite bathroom, as well as a kitchen, lounge, private deck and swimming pool. This unit can be enjoyed on a deluxe safari basis. Let your chef cater all your meals within the privacy of your unit. Enjoy dawn and dusk safaris – or outings at whatever time suits you – with your private guide and tracker team. And delight in uninterrupted views of the Madikwe Game Reserve from your spacious deck.
Sirikoi Lodge - A beautiful, small, family-run lodge on private land, surrounded by the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Set in a shady acacia grove and overlooking a natural waterhole and the slopes of Mount Kenya, Sirikoi Lodge offers some of the best wildlife viewing in East Africa. This lodge is recognised as one of Africa's most luxurious, though it remains true to the essence of safari. Evening sundowners with amazing views of distant mountain ranges and delicious meals served under the stars next to a roaring fire top off a day spent exploring one of Kenya's most prestigious wildlife conservancies. You may hear the sounds of animals in camp late at night, but this is just a small part of the magical experience on offer at Sirikoi Lodge.
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Wilderness Safaris Vumbura Plains Camp
Chongwe River House
- This eco-retreat is a superb base for spotting Okavango’s wildlife and enjoying varied activities
- Stay in a spectacular private villa with 360-degree views along Zambia's renowned Lower Zambezi
Vumbura Plains Camp is a luxury camp situated in a private concession at the extreme north of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Each luxurious suite is raised on wooden decks and comprises a bedroom, lounge and full ensuite bathroom with shower, plus an outdoor shower. Huge screens provide a feeling of openness on three sides, while billowing sheer curtains between the various areas create the sense of a yacht floating through the floodplains.
The Lower Zambezi – known for its magnificent herds of wild elephants, exceptional predator viewing and the mighty Zambezi River – is also home to Chongwe River House. The villa sleeps eight guests in four vast bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and waterfall showers. With your own host, chef, guides and vehicles, you can customise your safari every day.
Vumbura Plains Camp offers both land and water activities, principally nature viewing in a wide variety of habitats in open 4WD vehicles, and nature walks, mokoro trips and other boat excursions.
Chongwe River House was extensively refurbished in 2012 and won 'Best Safari House in Africa' for the second year running. It is an ideal base from which to explore the bush with friends or family, and has enough space that you can find a quiet spot to unwind and appreciate your magical surroundings.
1. Luangwa Safari House, Robin Pope Safaris 2. Impodimo Game Lodge 3. Sirikoi Lodge 4. Wilderness Safaris Vumbura Plains Camp 5. Chongwe River House
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Linyanti Bush Camp Linyanti Bush Camp is a small, luxurious and intimate 12-bed tent camp on the banks of the Linyanti Marsh. Hugging the western boundary of pristine Chobe National Park in Botswana, it caters to small, exclusive groups seeking highly personalised experiences away from the crowds. Activities you can take part in from camp include game drives and guided walks.
Under Canvas From inside your canvas palace, you listen to remarkable sounds of 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. Inhale the perfumes of exotic plants and flowering trees, mixed with the fragrance of unusual wood smoke from your campfire. Watch the land come alive at sunrise. 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 is as far from 'camping' as you can get and still be under canvas.
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Richard's Camps: Ol Choro and Olare Orok Saile Tented Camp Saile Tented Camp is a small, eight-bed camp with luxurious, Meru-style canvas lodgings, sitting atop the sandy banks of the ancient Linyanti River. Tents are outfitted with ensuite toilet facilities and hot bucket showers. Saile Tented Camp caters to small groups or private family safaris – the primary focus here is on providing an intimate and comfortable way to experience Africa, in the wildest and most remote locations.
- Small, private and exclusive in the Masai Mara Richard's Camps are located in two parts of the Masai Mara – the Ol Choro Conservancy and the Olare Orok Conservancy. Both offer spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Animals roam freely, and you can see them in vast numbers. Both camps have spacious tents furnished in safari style, with 24-hour solar lighting and ensuite bathrooms. After excellent game viewing with professional guides, enjoy hot showers, cocktails around the campfire and delicious three-course dinners under a canopy of stars. Activities include day and night game viewing, bushwalks, and bush breakfasts and dinners; scenic flights and balloon safaris can be arranged.
Tena Tena, Robin Pope Safaris
Somalisa Acacia
- Located in the spectacular Nsefu sector of South Luangwa National Park
- A charming, exclusive camp catering to small family groups and those seeking a private experience
Tena Tena, sandwiched between the river and a complex lagoon system in a magnificent mahogany grove, is a magnet for wildlife. You need not go far for incredible sightings, as the camp is located in one of the park’s more exclusive game drive areas.
Located alongside the famous Somalisa Camp in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, the Somalisa Acacia camp provides an intimate gathering place for only eight people. Consisting of one family unit and three twin-bedded tents with ensuite bathroom facilities, the simple but luxurious camp welcomes visitors on slightly raised decks under the dappled canopy of a grove of acacia trees.
An experienced and passionate team runs this small and intimate camp, which hosts a maximum of ten guests. The spacious camp offers delightful privacy. Each tent is specifically designed and located to blend into its environment while providing wonderful views of the river. Tena Tena is run entirely by solar power, providing electricity to the rooms throughout the day and night.
From the main dining and lounge area, enjoy private views of a small waterhole frequented by large herds of big game, including buffalo, elephants, kudus, zebras, giraffes and lions.
Linyanti Ebony
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge
- Located alongside Linyanti Bush Camp on the western edge of Chobe in the famous Linyanti swamps
- Unwind in a camp perched on the banks of the nowflowing Savute Channel
Linyanti Ebony is designed for a small group or family. It offers one family unit with a private outdoor deck, and three twin-bedded tents, all with ensuite bathrooms and flush toilets. Interiors at Linyanti Ebony are decorated to a very high standard, combining the culture of Africa with colonial antiques.
This lodge is a great base from which to explore a fantastic region. Drama unfolds here daily, with interactions among the high concentrations of elephants, the large lion prides and the many hyenas that inhabit the area. Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge is also known for its excellent sightings of predator-prey interactions during the drier months.
You will be treated to exceptional cuisine throughout your stay. Activities conducted from camp include game drives and bushwalking safaris. Mokoro safaris and fishing expeditions are available by special request. Linyanti Ebony offers exceptional, personalised, authentic safaris in Botswana.
Accommodation is everything you would expect of a luxury safari experience. All tents are housed on raised wooden platforms, offering great views, and are shaded by traditional African thatch roofs. The large private decks are furnished with easy chairs and hammocks, making them ideal spots for viewing wildlife.
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Tanda Tula Safari Camp - An owner-run tented game lodge situated in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve Tanda Tula Safari Camp, which is shaded by majestic trees and overlooks a waterhole that attracts wildlife from dawn till dusk, features 12 tents. Each tent is completely private, is surrounded by lush riverine bush and has a private deck overlooking the riverbed. Offering warm hospitality and fine bush cuisine, Tanda Tula also provides an unforgettable game viewing experience, as the region is a sanctuary for Africa’s 'Big Five'. Explore over 20,000 hectares of wilderness and undisturbed biodiversity. Highly skilled ranger and tracker teams guide guests in the early mornings and evenings, in open Land Rovers or on foot.
1. Linyanti Bush Camp 2. Saile Tented Camp 3. Tena Tena, Robin Pope Safaris 4. Richard’s Camps: Ol Choro and Olare Orok 5. Somalisa Acacia 6. Linyanti Ebony 7. Tanda Tula Safari Camp 8. Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge
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Under Canvas
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Mara Plains Camp
Mara Toto Camp
- Listen to lions roar nearby while staying at the newly rebuilt Mara Plains Camp in the heart of prime predator country
- An alluring blend of comfort, adventure and intimacy makes this a gem in the Masai Mara Game Reserve
Set inside the private 12,140-hectare Olare Motorogi Conservancy, this camp is on the border of Masai Mara Game Reserve. Lions are often seen and heard, leopards regularly wander through camp and cheetahs stroll across the stunning savannah. This brand-new, seven-room camp under canvas, located on raised wooden decks, provides sweeping views across Kenya’s paradise. It is among the smallest and most personal camps in the greater Masai Mara region, and overlooks a small river alive with activity. On this private reserve, you will happily avoid the high tourist density of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, should you wish.
‘Toto’, which means ‘baby’ in Swahili, is used to distinguish this delightful camp from its larger sister camp, Mara Plains. The larger camp has developed a phenomenal reputation, and Mara Toto aims to follow suit with its fine dining and exceptional hospitality. Just a few miles downstream from Mara Plains, Mara Toto is an intimate new camp inside the Masai Mara Reserve that sleeps just ten lucky guests. Nestled in a small bend in the Ntiakitiak River where thick forest meets savannah, its five ensuite tents feature flush toilets, bucket showers, hot and cold water, and 24-hour electricity.
As a guest of Mara Plains Camp, you will have access to over 40,468 hectares of low-density vehicle tourism lands. Mara Plains Camp offers you diverse activities, such as early morning, late afternoon, and night game drives in open vehicles, as well as thrilling balloon safaris, authentic local village visits and access to superior wildlife habitats.
Early-morning and late-afternoon game drives in open vehicles allow you to explore the world-famous Masai Mara Reserve and private Mara North Conservancy. You will not have to look far for wildlife – the glade of trees surrounding the camp is prime leopard territory, and the camp is a superior location from which to witness the great wildebeest and zebra migration from your tent.
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andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas - Experience a classic Tanzanian safari in spectacular solitude and soothing comfort The luxurious tented camps of andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas move around Serengeti National Park all year round, exploring its remote and beautiful corners. Using only private campsites, these intimate and exclusive mobile camps feature spacious safari tents, each with a double bed, ensuite bathroom and al fresco bucket shower. Custom-made Indian rugs, crisp linens, sparkling crystal and polished brass lend flair to the simplicity of camping. Carefully planned according to the projected movements of the Great Migration, the camps aim to bring guests within comfortable driving distance of the herds. However, the wildebeest masses move with the rains, which may occur at a different time each year, so it is not always possible to accurately predict where they will be. andBeyond’s expert guides always try to place guests in the midst of the action but, should the animals not appear when expected, the guides’ intimate knowledge of the local game will ensure a rich game viewing experience.
1. Mara Plains Camp 2. Mara Toto Camp 3. andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas
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Tribe Hotel
Cosmopolitan Chic Come home to contemporary design in boutique hotels in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Nairobi. Sip cocktails in a sleek bar or kick back in a stunning guestroom. Discover Africa’s cool design evolution.
Ranked among the ultimate luxury lodgings in Nairobi, the Tribe Hotel is located in the diplomatic district of the city. The artful interior of this hotel features exquisite crafts, artworks and furnishings hand picked from around the continent. Each of the 137 rooms is designed to whisk you away from average mundane hotel notions, into a world of hip designs and clever details.
The Peech Hotel - Stay in chic surroundings, just a short stroll from the hustle and bustle of the city The Peech Hotel combines an awareness of the environment and the local community with fresh food and smart design. The hotel’s 16 rooms and bistro, spread across a lush half-hectare garden in the Johannesburg suburb of Melrose, are simultaneously stylish and homely, sophisticated and warm, eco-friendly and chic. Combined, these qualities make the hotel a wonderful place to stay in the city, before or after a safari. The hotel has been described as ‘contemporary, edgy and Afrocentric’ by Condé Nast Traveller and nominated as 'South Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel' for the last five consecutive years.
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1. Tribe Hotel 2. The Peech Hotel 3. Blue Views
Blue Views - An idyllic, spacious and luxurious base for your visit to Cape Town Designed for discerning guests, Blue Views consists of ten owner-managed houses and apartments, situated less than 100 metres from the secluded and private Bakoven Beach. Within easy walking distance of famous Camps Bay Beach, as well as trendy restaurants, shops and sidewalk cafés, Blue Views rental properties range from one- to seven-bedroom luxury units, complemented by plush amenities and services.
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Panoramic views of Table Mountain grab your attention. The majestic Twelve Apostles, Atlantic Ocean, Clifton Beach, city centre, and the vibrant Victoria & Albert Waterfront are all within easy reach.
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