This is Africa 2013/2014 brochure

Page 1

TRAVEL WITH EXPERIENCE


about this is africa The African continent includes over 50 countries, each with individual tribal groups, traditions, dialects, landscapes and wildlife species. It is these characteristics which make Africa such an exciting, interesting and unique destination. Distances can be vast and each country’s customs and practices can make travel challenging at times, but in choosing the right travel company your African adventure will be an extraordinary fulfilling experience. Having represented African tour operators in Australia since 1995, the Director and founder of This is Africa, Patrick Barden, along with his team, have over 40 years of combined knowledge and experience in promoting Africa. As a result, This is Africa offers creative and innovative itineraries which will make your African journey as interesting as your destination. We offer a wide selection of group tours and tailor-made itineraries to suit all travellers. Whether you want luxury, five star accommodation and a personalised safari, or you are on a tight budget and want to stretch your savings, we provide accurate, useful and reliable advice at competitive prices.


ENIN

O

NIGERIA

SOMALIA CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

navigating africa

SOUTH SUDAN

ETHIOPIA

CAMEROON

UGANDA

KENYA

Kampala

GABON

Masai Mara National Reserve Kigali Serengeti National Park Ngorongoro Crater

RWANDA D. R. CONGO

CONGO

Lake Nakuru National Park Nairobi

Mount Kilimanjaro Mombasa Arusha Tarangire National Park

BURUNDI

Zanzibar

TANZANIA Lake Malawi

ANGOLA

MALAWI ZAMBIA

Lilongwe

Lusaka Livingstone

NAMIBIA Swakopmund

MOZAMBIQUE Victoria Falls

Chobe National Park

ZIMBABWE

Okavango Delta

Gweru National Park

Windhoek

BOTSWANA Sossusvlei

Kruger National Park

Madikwe Sun City

SOUTH AFRICA LESOTHO

Cape Town

Maputo

Johannesburg

SWAZILAND Durban

Port Elizabeth

brochure icons

M V S N O L A B

Overland tours – accommodated Overland tours – camping Safari lodge based tour Permanent tented camp Private tour Number of passengers Airport transfers Bonus Masai Mara trip

C D E F J K G H

Discounts apply Families minimum age Flight within itinerary Game activities included Local payment applies Meals included

Gorilla permit NOT included Gorilla permit included

X W I R T U Y

Guide is driver Guide + driver Guide + driver + cook Trip available in reverse Spa Swimming pool Guaranteed departure


Countries and major sights

Masai Mara national reserve Kenya

Lake Nakuru National Park Kenya

Serengeti National Park Tanzania

Named after the Maasai people, here you will witness one of the world’s greatest animal migrations which takes place annually. See page 5

Marvel at over a million pink flamingos congregating on the lake, along with other wildlife. See page 6

View masses of game across the Serengeti’s vast open plains. This Park offers ideal conditions to spot cheetah. See page 9

Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania

Mt Kilimanjaro Tanzania

Zanzibar Tanzania

This large volcanic caldera offers a unique concentration of both large and small game. See page 10

Choose one of five different routes to trek the 5,895 metres to the roof of Africa. See page 13

Spice up your life on Zanzibar. Sandy beaches, a clear blue sea and plenty of sunshine. See page 16

Gorilla trek Uganda & Rwanda

Victoria Falls Zambia & Zimbabwe

Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park Botswana

Be awe-struck as you gaze at a family of mountain gorillas. See page 18

One of the natural wonders of the world and Africa’s adventure capital with dozens of activities on offer. See page 22

Be amongst 70,000 elephants as you enjoy a river safari on the Chobe River. Navigate your way through the largest inland delta on earth which teams with wildlife. See page 24

Cape Town South Africa

Kruger National Park South Africa

NaMiBIA sossusvlei NaMiBIA

Visit Table Mountain, dive with the sharks or simply shop at V & A Waterfront. This vibrant city has a lot to offer so allow plenty of time. See page 30

This is South Africa’s premier park with great game lodges and guaranteed close encounters of the wildest kind. See page 34

See some of the largest sand dunes in the world. Experience a unique African culture and interesting wildlife. See page 40


CONTENTS

Kenya 4 Kenya tours 6 Kenya lodges 8

Tanzania 9 Tanzania tours 10 Tanzania lodges 12 Mount Kilimanjaro 13 East Africa combined tours 14 Zanzibar 16

Uganda & Rwanda Gorillas, chimps & more

18 20

Victoria Falls 21 Victoria Falls – Zambia 22 Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe 23 Botswana 24

South Africa 28 Cape Town 30 South Africa tours 32 South Africa – self drive 33 The Greater Kruger National Park

34

Rail journeys 38 Namibia

40

Island stopovers 41 Mauritius Seychelles Reunion Overland tours 42

QR CODES Throughout this catalogue you will notice quick response (QR) codes. If you have a smart phone or an iPhone you can use these codes to directly view the product on our website. It is the easy way to start planning your holiday.


choosing your style of travel tailor-made tours

Tailor-made tours are personalised and offer greater flexibility. As opposed to group travel, private tours allow you to travel alone or with your own party. Set itineraries are available which you can customise to suit your own individual interests and needs. Additional side trips may include a visit to the local village or craft market, or may cater to your passion for photography. Tours are escorted by a driver / guide in a private vehicle. These tours are not expensive and departure dates are flexible so appeal to travellers with specific travel dates.

Rail journey

Convenient, self-contained train tours with fine dining, safari excursions and sightseeing included, are perfect for travellers wishing to enjoy their journey as much as their destination. The treasured rail companies of southern Africa offer a selection of routes through many countries. Journey durations range from 24 hours to 28 days. Step aboard one of Africa’s classic trains for a journey like no other and discover Africa by rail.

Game lodges

Scattered throughout Africa’s parks and reserves are many of the world’s best game lodges. They offer professionally guided game activities with ample time to relax and enjoy the lodge’s numerous facilities. Lodges are often privately owned and include all meals and game activities. Lodges are well located in regions heavily populated with wildlife and accommodation is African inspired. Social areas are spacious and often reflect bygone days when safaris were a very serious affair.

Scheduled departures

As the name suggests these tours depart on set dates and have pre-planned itineraries. Tour operators negotiate good rates with sites, accommodation and excursions, providing great value. Accommodation can range from five star lodges and basic cabins, to camping and prices start from as little as $75 per day. Throughout this brochure you will find a selection of small group tours and over 50 overlanding itineraries to choose from on pages 44 to 63.

Hotels, activities and car hire We suggest you book your airport transfers, accommodation and activities prior to arrival in Africa due to availability and safety. Although we can cater for all styles of travel, certain locations and countries lend themselves to particular modes of travel. Self-drive holidays are popular in South Africa and Namibia, with numerous car hire depots and a vast range of hotels available. Further north, tours and short packages dominate with travellers flying between destinations. In East Africa, navigation and border crossings can complicate travel and there are only a few mid-range hotels available, consequently most travellers choose to travel on tour.

Permanent tented safari camps

These camps revisit the era of the grand tour when safari guests stayed under canvas. Days are spent on game drives and nights are for relaxing over dinner and enjoying drinks with fellow travellers. Accommodation is in permanent canvas-sided tents which offer most of the comforts and conveniences you would find at a lodge. Tents include a private en-suite and deck to gaze out across the camp and meals and game activities are included. The tented safari camp offers an authentic African experience and is a favourite amongst many travellers.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

3


kenya With the vast amount of game, varied tribal cultures and dynamic landscapes, Kenya is every traveller’s dream. Kenya’s parks offer David Attenborough style viewing – close up and fascinating. Kenya has stunning scenery, with the country’s highest peak, Mount Kenya leading into the picturesque Rift Valley and the Masai Mara National Reserve. The Reserve covers 15,000 sq km and spreads west to Lake Victoria, Africa’s most extensive lake and the country hosts the great migration of 2.5 million wildebeest and zebra each spring. Travellers on safari stay in game lodges, permanent tented camps or on overlanding tours. Popular safari destinations such as Lake Nakuru, with its pink flamingo population, Amboseli, with its plenitude of elephants in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the lesser visited Tsavo East and West all offering intimate game viewing. The Kenyan people, in the north the Samburu, in the south and west the Maasai, are probably the most well known in Africa. Billed as the gateway to East Africa, Kenya is definitely one of Africa’s major highlights.

Sarova Stanley Nairobi

UTD

Sankara Nairobi Hotel Nairobi

UTD

Fairmont The Norfolk hotel Nairobi

UTD

$150- $200

$150-$200

$200-$250

Built in 1902, The Stanley has a long and interesting history. Over the past century many famous guests have stayed at the hotel including: Ernest Hemingway, Grace Kelly, Clark Gable and Sean Connery. Centrally located in the city centre, this icon of Nairobi gives each guest a warm welcome. The decor is plush antique with rich reds and golden ochres being the colours of choice. Offering modern hotel services and amenities, such as a heated pool and health club, The Stanley has been graciously preserved and a stay here is an experience in itself.

For those wanting a taste of modernity in Kenya the Sankara Hotel is one of the best hotels on offer. Its location in one of Nairobi’s inner suburbs is safe and convenient. This five star property is great value with plenty of facilities, including a rooftop pool, popular bar, spa and gym and several fine dining restaurants. The rooms are spacious and luxurious and filled with modern African decor. The staff at Sankara are friendly and efficient and the hotel is fast becoming the place to stay in Nairobi.

Having celebrated its centenary in 2004, the Norfolk Hotel is rightfully a part of Nairobi’s history. Built during the days when game hunting was very popular, the hotel now welcomes guests visiting for quieter endeavours. In its past numerous presidents, prime ministers and members of the British Royal Family stayed at the hotel. Still a haunt of the rich and famous, the Norfolk is an expansive hotel with manicured gardens, a large heated pool and plenty of social areas. Situated only 3km from the city centre this hotel is convenient, yet still tranquil, and as popular as ever.

4

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


planning your trip Product catalogue

Africa is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world today. With growth comes change and it is becoming increasingly difficult for traditional brochures to keep readers up-to-date with all the changes. New properties are opening all the time and existing ones undergo regular refurbishments. Also, in recent years, there have been major currency fluctuations which effect prices on a daily basis. At This is Africa, we believe that the days of a traditional, annual brochure are numbered and for this reason the team at This is Africa has re-thought the concept of a brochure and launched this interactive product catalogue. This catalogue gives you the latest information, prices and specials, available through the use of our website. Unlike other African travel brochures, this catalogue includes a comprehensive range of products to cater for all your travel requirements. Through the use of icons, maps and brief descriptions, we believe there is enough information for you to identify products of interest. For more detailed and up-to-date information, access our website via the QR codes and product references printed throughout the catalogue.

QR codes and product references – the easy way to plan your travel

You will notice quick response (QR) codes accompany most products throughout this brochure. If you have a smart phone or an iPhone you can use these codes to directly view the product on our website. In order to scan the code you first need to download a QR scanner onto your phone. Many new phones have applications for scanners, or you can use a free online site to download the scanner. The process is quick and easy. QR codes allow you to access tour information easily without needing to type individual tour web addresses or needing to navigate through the website, making planning your trip even easier. Alternatively if you don’t have a smartphone or iPhone, simply log onto our website www.thisisafrica.com.au and enter the product reference code which you will find listed at each tour in our catalogue.

2

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

Personalised service

Planning a trip to Africa can be daunting at times and we appreciate although websites can be very informative most people still want to deal personally with an expert. At This is Africa we welcome your calls and our team of experts will help you plan your holiday. Alternatively, we work very closely with all reputable travel agents throughout Australia, so if you have a preferred consultant that you regularly deal with we are happy to assist them with your planning.

Price guide

Each product throughout this brochure includes a price range icon to give you an idea of cost. We feature a per day price range, rather than a total cost amount, as we find most travellers have a daily budget in mind. Prices are per person for twin share accommodation and we have taken seasonal cost changes into consideration whenever appropriate. Each product is also featured on our website and can be accessed for up-to-date prices which take currency fluctuations and seasonal price variations into consideration.

Family holidays

As many parts of Africa have becoming safer and more accessible from Australia, Africa is increasingly becoming a family-friendly destination. Throughout our catalogue you will find a great number of tours, lodges and other options that cater for families. These products are easily identified by the familyfriendly icon which indicates the minimum age requirements for that particular product.

Responsible travel

Our tour operators are African-based and most of the travel wholesalers and lodges we feature support local charities and assist with projects in local communities. Many game lodges not only support the local community by offering employment, but also provide financial assistance to local schools, orphanages, medical clinics and animal rehabilitation centres. Rest assured that your visit to Africa will benefit the people you meet and the extended local community.


Giraffe Manor Nairobi

KAD

$475-$525

More than just a place to stay, Giraffe Manor is an experience like no other. This exclusive property with only six rooms is one of the most sought after properties in Africa with bookings often made a year in advance. What makes this property so unique is not its beautiful rooms, fine dining or 140 acres of gardens, but the giraffes which roam the grounds freely. In 1974 the few remaining Rothchild Giraffes left in the wild were relocated here, beginning the breeding centre which still operates today. At Giraffe Manor you will stay as a treasured guest in one of the six suites in the Manor House, or in one of the elegant rooms in the new wing. Rooms are filled with authentic antique furniture and offer views across to the Ngong Hills. As a guest at the Manor you are greeted by, and encouraged to interact with their most famous residents, the Rothschild’s Giraffes. These gentle creatures are not only friendly but are genuinely curious and will pop up at breakfast for a snack. This is a truly exceptional experience and one that leaves even the most hardened traveller with a lump in their throat. We highly recommend a stay here.

Kenya Fly–in Safaris

This is Africa has dozens of fly-in safaris to choose from with each including return flights from Nairobi, all game drives and meals. Below are just three of our most popular options.

Mara Serena Safari Lodge Masai Mara National Reserve

SEFKUD

Karen Blixen Camp Masai Mara National Reserve

Little Governers Camp Masai Mara National Reserve

NEFKTD

$450-$500

$500- $550

With views over the Mara River, the Mara Serena is perfectly located at the very centre of the famous ‘Mara Triangle’, home of the great migration. Activities on offer include daily game drives in custom-built safari vehicles, sundowner drinks in the bush, breakfast by the hippo pools, balloon safaris and Masai bush suppers. The Serena consists of 74 lodge rooms, each with uninterrupted views from the private balcony. The central bar, restaurant area and swimming pool all enjoy spectacular views. Managed by the Serena group, this lodge features heavily on tour itineraries due to its spectacular location and it is a great choice for those wanting a fly-in safari.

Named after the famous Danish author, Karen Blixen, this camp holds true to a classic safari experience. Consisting of 22 luxury permanent safari tents, each with a balcony overlooking the Mara River, the location of the Karen Blixen Camp is superb. The camp was built opposite a much favoured wildlife drinking spot. Here the gentle slopes of the river bank allow animals easy access to the Mara River offering guests endless entertainment from their armchairs. The Camp serves three beautiful meals per day and includes morning and afternoon game drives. There are also other activities on offer, such as walking or balloon safaris.

NEFKD

$550-$600

Little Governors Camp has just 17 luxury en-suite tents scattered around a watering hole which teems with wildlife. The Camp is accessed not by vehicle but by boat. Guests are transferred across the Mara River then escorted through the riverine forest to reach this very intimate camp. The tents all have large verandas allowing for constant game viewing of the nearby waterhole. Little Governors Camp is at the forefront of the eco travel industry in Kenya and it works tirelessly to support local communities. Whilst here take advantage of the many game activities included in your accommodation package. This camp offers a truly unique experience.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

5


kenya tours Through the Rift Valley PT8501D 4 days Nairobi to Nairobi Masai Mara - Lake Nakuru $250-$300

SXFK

Tour departs Selected Fridays

ITINERARY: Day 1 Leave Nairobi for the Masai Mara National Reserve. Experience your first game drive. Day 2 A day of wildlife spotting in Masai Mara, enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives. Day 3 Keep an eye out for giraffe and gazelle on your morning drive through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru. Spot game in the Nakuru National Park. Day 4 Return to Nairobi, arriving late morning. This is a short but extremely rewarding safari. It visits both the Great Rift Valley and its flamingo inhabited soda lakes, and the vast game-rich plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve. This Reserve is a must-see destination and home to the country’s greatest concentration of wildlife. Your four day visit includes several game drives and offers a sense of the spirit of safari. Accommodation: Mara Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge.

Wild Frontiers Safari PT7701 6 days Nairobi to Nairobi Amboseli - Masai Mara

SEXFKO

$480-$530

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Drive to the airport for a short flight to Amboseli National Park, followed by an afternoon game drive. Day 2 A day of wildlife spotting with morning and afternoon game drives. Amboseli is known for its large elephant population and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Day 3 Drive to the airport and fly to the Masai Mara National Reserve, followed by an afternoon game drive. Days 4–5 Two days of game viewing amongst Kenya’s greatest concentration of wildlife. Day 6 Final game drive before your return flight to Nairobi. This compact Kenyan safari tour incorporates wildlife spotting in the dramatic Amboseli National Park and the outstanding Masai Mara National Reserve. It includes two flights direct to the game parks, plus luxury lodge and safari camp accommodation. This tour focuses on Kenya’s abundant wildlife. Accommodation: Tawi Lodge, Kilima Camp.

Classic Kenya

PT8701C 7 days Nairobi to Nairobi Nairobi - Masai Mara - Lake Nakuru- Amboseli

SXFK

$250-$300

Tour departs Selected MONDAYS, THURSDAYS, SATURDAYs ITINERARY: Day 1 Meet and greet transfer to your Nairobi hotel. Afternoon at leisure to explore the city’s main attractions, or enjoy the hotel facilities. Day 2 Drive through the rift escarpment to the Masai Mara National Reserve, followed by an afternoon game drive. Day 3 A full day of wildlife spotting with morning and afternoon game drives. Day 4 Spot wildlife on your way to Lake Nakuru and upon arrival enjoy an afternoon game drive in Nakuru National Park. Day 5 Drive to Amboseli National Park whilst enjoying the game viewing en route. Day 6 Another full day of wildlife spotting with morning and afternoon game drives with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Day 7 Return drive to Nairobi. From the open plains of the Masai Mara, to the pink flamingos on the waters of Lake Nakuru and the riverbeds of Amboseli, this safari includes three of the most picturesque regions of Kenya. It also provides the perfect opportunity to spot the ‘Big Five’ and to enjoy diverse scenery. One of our most popular Kenyan safaris, this tour provides great value and classic game viewing. Accommodation: Safari Park Hotel, Mara Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge, Amboseli Sopa Lodge. 6

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Cultural Kenya PT901C 8 days Nairobi to Nairobi

Nairobi - Samburu - Mount Kenya - Lake Nakuru - Masai Mara

SXFK D

$250-$300

4

Tour departs Selected MONDAYS

ITINERARY: Day 1 Upon arrival in Nairobi, you are transferred to the hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure. Day 2–3 Leave Nairobi, crossing the Equator on your way to Samburu Game Reserve, where you will enjoy your first game drive. The next day is devoted to wildlife, with early morning and afternoon game drives. Day 4 Drive to the central highlands. Explore your tree lodge accommodation, plus the waterhole that attracts wildlife. Day 5 Visit Nyahururu Falls on the way to Lake Nakuru, your next stop. Enjoy an afternoon game drive. Days 6–7 Drive to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Enjoy an afternoon game drive and then another two the next day. Day 8 Return to Nairobi, travelling via the Rift Valley. One of our most popular safaris in Kenya, this tour combines stylish lodges with visits to a variety of wildlife reserves. You will mingle with Kenya’s largest tribal groups, the Samburu and the Maasai, and view the predator populations of the Mara River, plus see Lake Nakuru’s famous pink flamingos, on this exhilarating safari. Accommodation: Nairobi Safari Club, Samburu Game Lodge, Treetops, Lake Nakuru Lodge, Keekorok Lodge.

Kenyan Experience LLNN8 8 days Nairobi to Nairobi

NAIROBI - Ol Pejeta - Lake Nakuru - Masai Mara $330-$380

NSXFKO

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 You will be transferred to your Nairobi hotel for a day at your leisure. Days 2–3 Heading north through the highlands of Kenya, your time will be spent on game drives and visiting the rhino sanctuary and Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Orphanage in the Ol Pejeta conservancy. Day 4 This morning you are off to the Rift Valley and the flamingo covered Lake Nakuru. Days 5–7 Enjoy three days of game driving in the Masai Mara Game Reserve, Kenya’s premier game park. Have the chance to experience the culture of the Maasai people on a visit to a Masai village. Day 8 Transfer to Nairobi. Staying in a combination of game lodges and tented safari camps, you will experience the freedom of a true Kenyan safari. Discover the heart of the nation on this tour, visiting game reserves, villages and scenically spectacular regions, to representing the essence of Kenya. Accommodation: Sankara Hotel, Sweetwaters Tented Camp, Flamingo Hill Camp, Mara Timbo Tented Camp.

Kenyan Odyssey

PT9601 8 days Nairobi to Mombasa Nairobi - Masai Mara - Lake Nakuru - Amboseli - Taita Hills - Tsavo East - Mombasa $320-$350

SXFK

Tour departs Selected SUNDAYS, WEDNESDAYS ITINERARY: Day 1 Upon arrival transfer to your Nairobi hotel. Days 2–3 Drive to the Masai Mara Game Reserve where you will enjoy your first game drive. The following day is devoted to wildlife spotting with morning and afternoon game drives. Day 4 Drive to Lake Nakuru, home of the famous pink flamingos, followed by an afternoon game drive. Days 5 Drive to Amboseli National Park for a game drive. Day 6 Drive to Tsavo West National Park, spotting game along the way. Enjoy a visit to Mzima Springs. Day 7 Game drive in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, before game-spotting your way to Tsavo East National Park. Day 8 Your last morning is spent viewing game in Tsavo East, before driving to Mombasa. This comprehensive safari visits four extremely diverse wilderness areas. Starting with masses of wildlife at Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara, your game viewing continues in Amboseli National Park with its dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Ending on the Swahili coast, this is a great way to see Kenya. Accommodation: Stanley Hotel, Keekorok Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge, Ol Tukai Lodge, Sarova Salt Lick Lodge, Aruba Lodge. 1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

7


kenya lodges Kenya is home to numerous lodges and tented camps which each provide a classic safari experience. On this page we feature a selection of accommodation options to assist you in choosing accommodation you find suitable. Whether it be a small tented camp which offers an intimate safari experience, or a large colonial style resort offering the utmost in luxury and facilities, we will find the accommodation to suit your needs. All of our tours can be customised to include your preferred style of accommodation.

Mara Timbo Camp–Masai Mara

Masai Mara Sopa Lodge

SFUDK

NFDK

Sarova Mara Game Camp

NFTUDK

$300-$350

$350-$400

The Mara Sopa Lodge was one of the first lodges built within the Masai Mara. Whether you fly-in or drive, the lodge’s 50 round, thatched roofed chalets are an impressive sight. Refurbished several times, it has all the modern facilities yet retains its original charm. The pool, communal areas and two roomed chalets, which are great for families, are adorned with Masai artefacts and the ambience is pure Africa.

This intimate camp offers the ambience of a traditional safari. Each of the seven canvas-sided pavilions has its own deck, thatched roof and butler service. Due to its location in a private reserve, guests can enjoy game drives inside the Masai Mara as well as walking or night safaris. This property is ideal for honeymooners or those looking for the personalised service that a small camp can offer.

Located within the Masai Mara, this camp offers front row seats to nature’s most breathtaking show, the wildebeest migration. By virtue of its location and size with 73 stunningly decorated permanent safari tents, the Camp offers an unparalleled plethora of activities and experiences from luxury tented living to birdwatching, mini golf, sport fishing and a unique insight into the Maasai culture at the adjoining Maasai village.

Sweetwater Tented Camp Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Flamingo Hill Tented Camp Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru Lodge Lake Nakuru national park

$300-$350

NFUDK

NFD KT

SFUTD K 3

$200-$250

Sweetwater is set in the pristine Ol Pejeta Conservancy. This former farm offers safari luxury with 39 permanent tents each with its own verandah. It has retained its colonial charm, with beautiful decor and large fireplaces, and the restaurant and bar overlook a waterhole offering unrivalled wildlife watching. At the forefront of conservation, Ol Pejeta boasts the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya.

Flamingo Hill Tented Camp is one of the few properties situated within the National Park. Each of the 25 permanent safari tents has a private deck where you can relax between game drives, take a massage or simply stare out across the Rift Valley. This lodge is perfectly positioned to view the rare black and white rhinos as well as the many thousands of flamingos which have made Lake Nakuru famous.

Not far from Nairobi in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru Lodge National Park has the atmosphere of a Kenyan country club. With all the modern conveniences of a large lodge, it is ideal for families. Situated within the National Park, animals are often seen close by as it is the most densely populated animal wetland in the country. A number of additional activities are offered, such as horse riding and bird watching.

Mount Kenya Safari Club Nanyuki

Amboseli Sopa Lodge Amboseli National Park

Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli National Park

SUTDK

6

$200-$250

$250-$300

SFUDK

SFKUTD

$350-$400

$300-$350

$300-$350

The Safari Club was founded by 1950’s movie star William Holden, and has grown to become one of the finest resorts in Kenya. With magnificent views of Mount Kenya, the 120 luxuriously appointed hotel rooms, set in vast landscaped gardens, offer a nice blend of comfort and relaxation. There are various accommodation options, with all rooms beautifully decorated. Guests have access to all resort activities such as the pool, horse-riding and golf.

Amboseli Sopa Lodge is located outside the eastern gate of the Amboseli National Park and caters for all safari enthusiasts from young to mature. This large lodge is set in a leafy location, with acacia, frangipani and thorn trees giving it a truly African flare. The lodge has 83 luxury rooms and offers facilities including the large central thatched roof restaurant, sparkling pools and Masai market.

Ol Tukai Lodge is located in the heart of the Amboseli reserve. It is well positioned to view Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the huge herds of elephants which Amboseli is known for. The 80 luxury chalet-style rooms all have uninterrupted views and feature stylish African decor and individual terraces. There is plenty of opportunity to spoil yourself with bush dinners, champagne breakfasts, two bars, a spa and pool.

8

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

6


Tanzania For many travellers Tanzania is the ultimate African nation. From the challenge of climbing the continent’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, to the magic of the annual migration, Tanzania offers every classic African experience. With over 35% of the country dedicated to conservation areas and playing host to the highest population of mammals in Africa, Tanzania is the perfect place to go on safari. Add to that the friendly local people who so willingly invite you into their villages, markets and schools and you know you are in for an extraordinary journey. Days are spent game viewing, evenings are with fellow travellers enjoying a sundowner drink

and nights of listening to the sounds of nocturnal animals. Iconic wildlife areas like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire blend into lesser known, yet equally impressive parks, such as Lake Manyara, Ruaha and the enormous Selous National Park. Add a beach break at one of the well priced resorts on the island of Zanzibar to your safari to make your visit to Tanzania diverse and unforgettable.

tanzania Fly–in Safaris

This is Africa has dozens of fly-in safaris to choose from with each including return flights from Arusha, all game drives and meals. Below are just three of our most popular tours.

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge Serengeti National park

SFKUTD

Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp Serengeti National park

NFKD

Klein’s Camp Serengeti National Park

$300-$350

$700- $750

6

$1000-$1100

Winner of numerous awards, the Serena Lodge is located near the Western Corridor and Grumeti River providing easy access to view the great migration. It has been designed to blend completely into the landscape with the accommodation in a series of traditional domed ‘rondavels’ widely spaced throughout the grounds. The lodge specializes in bush dinners and in the evenings, ‘sun-downer’ cocktails are served around a campfire surrounded by the sounds of the African bush. Families are welcome at the Serena with a stunning pool, plenty of adventure activities and family rooms available. Possibly the finest game lodge in the west of the park it is popular with travellers on a mid-range budget.

Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp sits in a remote corner of the mighty Serengeti National Park, right on the banks of the Grumeti River. This world-renowned River is known for its wildebeest crossings and large Nile crocodiles. This is an area of enormous conservational significance due to the abundance of wildlife, animal migrations and endangered species. The tented camp is an absolute treat, with open-air showers and authentic African art and furnishings. Grumeti is famous for its safari experience, with its rangers being amongst the best in Tanzania. A stay here is assured to impress.

SFKUD

Klein’s Camp is located in the Northern part of the Serengeti in Tanzania. Set in the hills outside the park’s eastern border, this camp is able to offer game-drives inside the park, whilst also being able to offer walking and night-drive safaris in its own concession area. The camp itself comprises of a circular stone and thatched public area, with luxurious lounge and dining areas, both with lovely views out over the surrounding hills. The rooms take the form of very comfortable stone cottages, making this one of only a handful of non-tented high-end camps in the region. There is also a modest swimming pool. The camp’s service and hospitality are to a very high standard.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

9


Tanzania tours The Crater and Lakes RS3101B 4 days Arusha to Arusha

Ngorongoro Crater - Lake Manyara - Arusha area $250-$300

SOXFK

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Starting in Arusha we drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Karatu. Day 2 A full day game viewing on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater followed by an afternoon drive to Lake Manyara. Day 3 Morning game drive, then after lunch we drive to Arusha for our final night’s accommodation. Day 4 Morning transfer for onward travel. This short safari explores the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater and the shores of Lake Manyara in a simple package that is priced for value. See the flamingos for which Lake Manyara is famous, plus the vast numbers of grazing animals and predators that live on the Ngorongoro crater floor. A night in Arusha at the end facilitates connections for onward travel. Accommodation: Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge, Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge, Impala Hotel.

Tanzanian experience

LLKK7 7 days Kilimanjaro Airport to Kilimanjaro Airport Arusha - Tarangire - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater $330-$380

OSXFK

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 You will be met at Kilimanjaro airport and transferred to Arusha, where there is time to ease into Africa mode. Day 2 You are off to Tarangire today for game viewing. This park is famous for its lion, elephant and raptor bird population. Day 3–4 Generous in its game viewing, due to its great flat treeless plains, the Serengeti is where we game drive for the next two days. Days 05–06 Now for the highlight, a day in the caldera of the Ngorongoro Crater, home to 25,000 animals. Day 7 Transfer to Kilimanjaro airport. Featuring the three major game viewing regions of northern Tanzania, this journey takes the traveller on a voyage of discovery. On this private, guided tour you can choose to stop at markets and visit villages to mingle with the people of Tanzania as you enjoy the freedom that a private safari allows. Accommodation: Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.

Simba Safari

RS3301A 7 days Arusha to Arusha Lake Manyara - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater - Tarangire $260-320

SXFK

Tour departs Selected SATURDAYS, MONDAYS ITINERARY: Day 1 Drive through the Rift Valley Escarpment and past many African villages to Lake Manyara. Day 2 Game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Drive to Serengeti National Park viewing game en route. Day 3 A day of wildlife viewing in the Serengeti with morning and afternoon game drives. Day 4 A final game drive in the Serengeti before driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, viewing the Olduvai Gorge en route. Day 5 Spend the day in the Ngorongoro Crater on a guided game drive. Day 6 Drive to Tarangire National Park. Afternoon game drive. Day 7 Return drive to Arusha. The Simba Safari, refererring to the Swahili word for ‘lion’, is one of the most popular Tanzania safaris. Travelling in 4WD safari vehicles, the trip visits all four of the country’s top wildlife parks. Visit Lake Manyara, experience the endless plains of the Serengeti, explore the Ngorongoro Crater floor, and look out for elephants in Tarangire National Park. Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Serengeti Serena Lodge, Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, Tarangire Sopa Lodge.

10

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


East Africa under canvas RS3401B 8 days Arusha to Arusha

Lake Manyara - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater $480- $550

NOXFK

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Drive to the Rift Valley Escarpment overlooking Lake Manyara. Day 2 Game drive in Lake Manyara. Opportunity for a guided visit to a local village including an African fruit tasting. Day 3 Drive to Serengeti National Park with game viewing en route. Afternoon game drive. Day 4–5 Morning, afternoon or full day game drives in the endless plains of the Serengeti. Day 6 Drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, viewing Serengeti wildlife and the Olduvai Gorge en route. Remainder of afternoon at leisure to relax in your tented camp. Day 7 Game viewing on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. Afternoon visit to Maasai village. Day 8 Return to Arusha. This luxury safari includes tented camps in the Rift Valley, a private mobile camp in the Serengeti and a stay on the edge of Ngorongoro Crater. For a true and unforgettable African safari experience nothing compares with being amongst the wildlife in their habitat. Accommodation: Kirumumu Tented Camp, Serengeti Explorers Camp, Rhotia Valley Tented Camp.

The Great Game Parks and Zanzibar RS3701B 11 days Arusha to Zanzibar

Lake Manyara - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater - Tarangire - Zanzibar

SXEFK

$250-$300

Tour departs Selected SUNDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYs ITINERARY: Day 1 Drive to the Rift Valley Escarpment. Tonight’s lodge has stunning views over the distant Lake Manyara. Day 2 Game drive in Lake Manyara. Drive to Serengeti National Park with game viewing en route. Day 3–4 All day wildlife viewing in the Serengeti, and a visit to Olduvai Gorge. Day 5 Morning game viewing on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. Day 6 Drive to Tarangire National Park, spotting wildlife en route. Afternoon game drive. Day 7 Flight from Arusha to Zanzibar. Time at leisure in Stone Town. Day 8–10 Relax at the resort and take up any of the optional activities provided. Day 11 Fly to Dar es Salaam. This is Africa made simple and affordable. Visit all four of Tanzania’s top wildlife parks including Lake Manyara, the endless plains of the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. Learn about the history and culture of Stone Town in Zanzibar, then retreat to your comfortable beach resort. Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Tembo House, Breezes Beach Club.

Take a Walk on the Wildside RS3801B 14 days Arusha to Zanzibar

Lake Manyara - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater - Tarangire - Selous - Zanzibar

SNXEFK

$350-$400

Tour departs Selected SUNDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYs ITINERARY: Days 1–2 Drive to the Rift Valley Escarpment and onto Lake Manyara National Park. Days 3–4 Spend your day’s wildlife viewing in the Serengeti National Park and visit ancient Olduvai Gorge. Day 5 Today you will have a full day with the animals of the Ngorongoro Crater. Day 6. Drive onto Tarangire National Park spotting game on the way. Days 7–9 Fly to Selous Game Reserve where your tented camp offers a choice of two daily activities including game drives, bush walks or boat excursions. Day 10 Fly to Zanzibar to explore Stone Town. Days 11–14 Spend a luxurious three days at Breezes Beach Club. From the game reserves of the Rift Valley, to the beaches on the island of Zanzibar, this safari is a real walk on the wild side. The secret to its success is the blend of famous game parks and locally popular reserves, and the combination of tented camps, game lodges and resorts. Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Selous Riverside camp, Tembo House, Breezes Beach Club. 1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

11


Tanzania lodges Tanzania has a reputation for offering accommodation which blends gracefully into the natural environment. Most lodges and tented camps are scattered throughout the parks and are self sufficient with staff living on site. We have selected a range of lodges and camps to choose from, including six permanent tented camps isolated in the heart of savannah land, and 45 locally built rondavels positioned specifically on the Ngorongoro Crater’s rim to glimpse the setting sun. Consider which accommodation style suits your travel needs and we can customise your journey. Alternatively, select the tour which features your preferred style of accommodation from the previous pages to create your African safari.

Seronera Wildlife Lodge Serengeti National Park

Serengeti Sopa Lodge Serengeti National Park

SFUD

SFUD

Kirawira Tented Camp Serengeti National Park

NFD

$250-$300

$250-$300

$450-$500

Seronera Wildlife Lodge’s location is perfect for game viewing all year round. It was one of the first lodges built in the park with architecture straight out of the 1970’s. The public areas are distinctive, with rooms and corridors blending with the natural rock surrounds. It has everything you would expect from a large lodge including pool and viewing areas, and is suited to families or those on a budget.

Serengeti Sopa Lodge is located away from other properties in the area and is part of the Sopa chain of large lodges. It is a popular choice, capturing a large portion of the middle-market packaged safari customer. The 69 luxury rooms and four double storey suites all have an earthy decor with red, brown and yellow wall designs. The social areas are positioned to give views of the vast Serengeti below.

Kirawira Tented Camp is created in the style symbolic of ‘Out of Africa’ style. With it’s great access to the migration of the wildebeest, it offers action-packed game drives. Each of the 25 safari tents are raised on timber platforms with glorious views. In keeping with the colonial theme, each has its own valet and Edwardian style furniture such as steamer-trunks and four-poster beds. Facilities include a central fire-pit, five-course meals and WiFi.

Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Manor at Ngorongoro Karatu

$250-$300

SFD

SFUD

SFUD

$250-$400

$650-$700

Strategically perched on the rim of the crater, Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge is elegant and comfortable. Built mainly from natural stone and local wood, all 80 rooms have breathtaking, uninterrupted vistas. The bar has panoramic views and offers powerful binoculars to see game way down on the crater floor. Recently refurbished, it has more of a hotel feel rather than a lodge.

Hardly visible from the crater floor below, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built from local river stone to blend into its natural environment. Taking its inspiration from nearby archaeological sites, the decor and artwork have prehistoric influences, such as, flaring torches guide you to social areas at night. This award-winning lodge has 75 rooms with private balconies offering uninterrupted views of the crater far below.

The Manor at Ngorongoro, with its 20 luxurious cottages and magnificent main house, is one of the first safari lodges of its kind. The stunning Cape Dutch property is something you would expect to find in Franschhoek or Stellenbosch, rather than Tanzania. Located within the 1500-acre Arabica coffee estate and with top service, style and comfort, this is a wonderful place, especially for guests who would appreciate a break from all the game viewing.

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Tarangire Sopa lodgE Tarangire National Park

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Lake Manyara national park

$900-$950

SFD

With exceptional views, the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge boasts the highest level of service in the country. It is a mix of European, West African and colonial architecture with masses of silver, gold and ruby adding to its eccentricity. Guests enjoy a private butler service in lavish suites, deep baths filled with rose petals, decadent lounges and fine dining. The service and views combine for a wonderfully decadent experience. 12

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

SFUD

SFUD

$300-$350

$300 - $350

Tarangire Sopa Lodge is located close to the main game-viewing areas of the national park, surrounded by ancient Baobab trees and hills. It is reminiscent of an old fashioned holiday resort, in many ways, rather than a safari lodge. The staff are extremely friendly and professional and, with a pool and all the facilities of a large resort, this lodge is good for families or those with a mid-low end budget.

Lake Manyara Serena Lodge is positioned on the edge of an escarpment with panoramic views over the lake. Perhaps the main feature is the large pool which is ideally positioned in the centre of the property. The rooms are double-storey, whitewashed ‘rondavels’ strung out along the cliff to give premium views. There are a wide selection of adventure activities and guests are welcome to visit the local village, which the lodge supports.

1300 550 221


Mount Kilimanjaro RONGAI ROUTE Second cave SHIRA PLATEAU ROUTE Third Cave Campsite LEMOSHO ROUTE Shira Camp

Simba Cave Campsite

Mawenzi Tarn Huts

Fischer Camp Hans Meyer Cave

Shira Huts New Shira Camp

MACHAME ROUTE

Lava Tower Campsite

Uhuru Peak Arrow Glacier Huts

Outward Bound School Hut Kibo Huts

Barafu Huts

Barranco Huts Karanga Campsite Machame Huts

Kambi Ya Taabu Horombo Huts Mandara Huts MARANGU ROUTE

High on the list of African adventure seekers is the desire to conquer the renowned Mt Kilimanjaro, which soars to 5,895 metres. More of a trek than a climb, Kili proves a challenge for many as the ascent section is fairly quick and can cause altitude sickness. Most climb packages are seven to eight days in length with a night either side of the trek in the town of Moshi. Packages can start and finish at either Nairobi or Kilimanjaro airport, with transfers to Moshi. There are a number of routes to choose from, with huts or camping accommodation, and all treks include guides and porters. The best time to climb is between July and September as the view is clearest. You can also add an extra day to assist with acclimatisation. Choose one of the routes here to stand atop Kili, the highest mountain in Africa.

Machame Route NM8MAC 8 days trekking $275-$325

ATC7MAR 7 days trekking

OVK

OM K

$275-$325

Tour departs Daily

Tour departs Daily

Nicknamed the ‘Whisky Route’, over 30% of climbers choose the Machame route. It is the only route where you camp throughout the climb, rather than stay in huts. This is seen by many as an added adventure. A great advantage is that the first few days are the main elevation walking days thus easing the altitude stress over the following days and preceding the final push to the summit. The trekking days are longer than some other routes, and the inclines are steeper. It is better suited to more adventurous people and those with some hiking experience.

The classic Marangu route is the most wellestablished and is considered the easiest path to the summit, thus it is used by almost 50% of all climbers. Nicknamed the ‘Coca-Cola route’, it consists of a gradual slope. The ascent and descent are done on the same path, so it can be crowded. It is suitable for those adventurers who are not particularly experienced in the mountains. It uses comfortable dormitory style, mountain huts with solar power lighting. The real highlight is the walk from Gillman’s Point along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that occupy most of the summit area. Also the view as the sun rises behind Mawenzi on a clear morning views are absolutely magnificent.

Rongai Route

Lemosho Route

NM8RON 8 days trekking

OVMK

MarangU Route

Shira Route

ARP9LEM 9 days trekking

ARP9SHI 9 days trekking

OM K

OM K

$275-$325

$275-$325

Tour departs Daily

Tour departs Daily

Tour departs Daily

Avoiding the more crowded routes, the Rongai is the only route to approach the mountain from the north. Gaining in popularity, it still has low traffic. It is the preferred route for those looking for a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season. As a moderately difficult route, it is recommended for those with less backpacking experience. Experienced guides consider this ascent to be both easier and more beautiful than the main Marangu trail.

Lemosho is a newer route and is considered one of the most beautiful, with panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. It is considered high difficulty and gives maximum possible acclimatisation. It approaches the mountain through forest and moorland from the west, crossing the caldera of the Shira volcano and exploring the rock formations of the plateau, before traversing beneath the southern icefields of Kibo. It provides the best views of Kibo in the sharp light of morning and early evening. It provides time to enjoy the unspoilt wilderness of Shira Plateau. There is low traffic until the route joins the Machame route for the ascent.

Nearly identical to the Lemosho route, the Shira route was the original western approach trail. Climbers using Shira should be confident of their ability to acclimatise, as it starts at a high elevation. Like Lemosho, this route approaches the mountain through forest and moorland and crosses the caldera of the Shira volcano before traversing beneath the southern icefields of Kibo. The final ascent is by the Barafu route. The views of Kibo are often stunning and the Lent Hills, close to the western flank of the summit cone, are very rarely visited.

$275-$325

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

13


east africa combined tours

Lakes, Lions and Leopards LLNJR10 10 days Nairobi to Nairobi

Nairobi - Lake Nakuru - Masai Mara - Lake Victoria - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater - Tarangire $480-$520

OSNXFK

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Head north to the Mount Kenya region and Lake Nakuru. Day 3–4 Spend two days in the Masai Mara on extensive game drives. Day 5 Cross the Tanzanian border for a night near a fishing village on Lake Victoria. Days 6–7 Live amongst the wildlife in the Serengeti in your tented camp. Day 8 Spend this morning in the Serengeti and this afternoon game driving in the Ngorongoro Crater. Day 9 Head down the escarpment and into Lake Tarangire for game drives. Day 10 Your safari ends at Kilimanjaro airport for your onward flight. Specifically designed for the traveller wishing to experience the great game parks of east Africa, this trip combines private lodge and tented safari camp accommodation. Its cleverly designed itinerary heads west to Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria and allows you to visit remote and lesser known regions. Accommodation: Sankara Hotel, Flamingo Hill Camp, Mara Timbo Lodge, Speke Bay Lodge, Nasikia Central Camp, Plantation Lodge, Kirumumu Camp.

Experience East Africa

LLKN12 12 days Kilimanjaro airport to Nairobi Ngorongoro Crater - Serengeti - Lake Manyara - Amboseli - Giraffe Manor Masai Mara - Lake Nakuru

OSNXFK

$430- $480

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Days 1–2 Head directly into big game territory with a full day in the Ngorongoro Crater. Days 3–4 Spot lots of wildlife during your two days in the Serengeti. Day 5 Your tented safari camp offers close up game experiences. Days 6–7 Get your camera ready as Mt Kilimanjaro becomes your back drop in Amboseli National Park. Day 8 Enjoy a special stay amongst the giraffe at Giraffe Manor. Days 9–10 Look out for predators during your two days in the Masai Mara. Day 11 A chance to see both black, and white rhino, at Lake Nakuru. Return to Nairobi. Specifically designed to deliver the best of Kenya and Tanzania, this tour captures the highlights of both countries. A magical night at Giraffe Manor allows you the opportunity to live amongst a tower of Rothschild’s giraffes. A heart warming experience if ever there was one. Accommodation: Ngorongoro Farm House, Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Kirurumu Tented Camp, Amboseli Sopa Lodge, Giraffe Manor, Lake Nakuru Lodge. 14

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Game Parks and Gorillas CS11501A 8 days Nairobi to Arusha

Arusha - Ngorongoro Crater - Serengeti - Kigali - Gorilla trek

OSXEFKG

$650-$700

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Meet and greet transfer to your Arusha hotel. Day 2 Drive to Karatu. Tour of coffee farm and visit to Iraqw village. Day 3 A full day game viewing on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. Day 4 Flight to Serengeti National Park followed by an afternoon game drive. Day 5 A day of wildlife spotting with morning and afternoon game drives in the Serengeti. Day 6 Morning game drive. Flight to Kigali and drive to Volcanoes National Park. Day 7 Trek to see the gorillas. Afternoon at leisure. Day 8 Drive to the airport for your return flight. Three sort-after activities for travellers visiting Africa are; exploring the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, game viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater and tracking mighty mountain gorillas in Rwanda. This amazing combination safari delivers these activities. Game viewing includes vast numbers of grazing animals and predators that live on the crater floor and the seasonal migration of wildlife across the Serengeti, plus of course, the amazing gorillas. Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge, The Manor at Ngorongoro, Kempinski Billa Lodge, Kigali Serena Hotel, Sabyinyo Lodge.

Wings over East Africa CS11701B 12 days Kigali to Arusha

Gorilla trek - Nairobi - Ol Pejeta - Masai Mara - Ngorongoro Crater - Serengeti

OSNXEFKG

$550-$600

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1–2 Meet and greet transfer to your lodge. The next day, track gorillas before driving to Kigali. Day 3–4 Flight to Nairobi and another to Nanyuki the following day. Game drive followed by a visit to chimpanzee sanctuary. Day 5 All day wildlife viewing with morning and afternoon game drives in Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Day 6–7 Flight to Masai Mara Nature Reserve, followed by an afternoon game drive and another two the following day. Day 8 Morning game drive. Flights to Lake Manyara with an afternoon cultural visit to Karatu village. Day 9 Enjoy a full day game viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater. Day 10–11 Flight to Seronera and drive to Serengeti National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive and then a full day of game drives the following day. Day 12 Flight to Arusha. With flights between Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya, this safari tour covers a lot of ground and a variety of scenery and wildlife. Game view in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Masai Mara Nature Reserve, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park and trek to the gorillas. Accommodation: Gorillas Volcanoes Lodge, Kigali Serena Hotel, Nairobi Serena Hotel, Sweetwaters Tented Camp, Mara Serena Lodge, Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, Kirawira Tented Camp.

East Africa Explorer CS11801B 13 days Nairobi to Arusha

Masai Mara - Lake Nakuru - Amboseli - Lake Manyara - Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater - Tarangire $550-$600

SXEFK

Tour departs Selected SATURDAYS, MONDAYS, THURSDAYS ITINERARY: Day 1–3 Drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve for daily game drives. Day 4 Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park and upon arrival enjoy an afternoon game drive. Day 5–6 Drive to Amboseli National Park, spotting game en route. The next day, enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives. Day 7 Drive to Lake Manyara, crossing the border at Namanga. Day 8–9 Enjoy a morning game drive. Game drives in the Serengeti National Park. Day 10 Final game drive in Serengeti before we drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Visit Olduvai Gorge and a Maasai village. Day 11–12 A full day game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, and a game drive in Tarangire National Park. Day 13 Drive via Arusha to Nairobi. Enjoy a final celebratory dinner. This safari combines some of the most popular adventures in Kenya and Tanzania. The focus is on game viewing, but you will also enjoy visits to Olduvai Gorge and a Maasai village. Accommodation: Safari Park Hotel, Lake Nakuru Lodge, Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, and the following Sopa Lodges: Serengeti, Amboseli, Ngorongoro, Mara, Tarangire. 1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

15


zanzibar The name Zanzibar conjures up an expectation of the exotic and this island, a mere 45 minute ferry ride or a short flight from the mainland, does not disappoint.

Once a slave trading centre and a boat building empire, the rich cultural history of Zanzibar is preserved, albeit at times in disrepair, in the old city of Stone Town. Travellers combine a stay in Stone Town with a resort package or head straight to their resort and take day trips around the island. Resorts here are good value with most offering half board as a standard package. Most hotels are located on the beach and offer plenty of activities to keep you occupied. With its Middle Eastern and African influences, Zanzibar’s architecture, food and ambience are sensational. Day trips include activites such as; tours to the spice farms that have given the island its nickname, sailing on traditional dhows, snorkelling and diving. All these combine to make it the perfect end to your safari holiday. We have showcased some of our favourite resorts here but can assist with a wide variety of accommodation to suit all travellers. Add Zanzibar to your travel plans and make your time away a complete holiday.

The Dhow Palace Stone Town

UD

The Zanzibar Palace Hotel Stone Town

TD

Zanzibar Serena Inn Stone Town

UTD

$75-$125

$100-$150

$150-$200

Named after the traditional sailing boats that serviced Zanzibar’s shipping empire, this hotel offers travellers a little taste of history. Originally a merchant’s home and family mansion it was transformed into a hotel in the 1990s. Its comfortable rooms reflect Zanzibar’s cultural mix with Islamic decor and dark wooden African furniture. The small pool, islamic tiled courtyards and colourful restaurant give the place plenty of personality and staff are friendly and generous with their time. The intimate feel of the Dhow Palace, along with its interesting past, make it a peaceful retreat in a town which can be anything but.

This boutique hotel treats its guests as friends and is famous for its service. With just nine rooms, staff are always on hand to assist and their individual service extends to the hotel’s intimate restaurant where staff are happy to indulge individual requests. Each room tells a tale of Zanzibar’s rich history integrated by their Arabian, Indian and English designs. All of the furniture has been carefully selected to give the hotel a wonderfully traditional and antique feel. Each room features its own unique decor, with many pieces of local antique furniture, Persian rugs and colourful silks. While maintaining a traditional feel the hotel offers modern facilities.

The Zanzibar Serena is ideally positioned on the seafront with views straight out to sea. The two restaurants specialise in seafood and have open balconies which catch the sea breeze. Each of the hotel’s rooms and suites have been designed in traditional Swahili style with high ceilings, arched niches, shuttered windows and cool white walls. Antique plates and lamps with carved wooden furniture and ceramic inlay are on display. All rooms are sea facing and have romantic four-poster beds, a spacious balcony and a large free-standing hammock to help you relax Zanzibar style. The hotel’s location alone makes it a ‘must stay’.

16

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Sea Cliff Resort & Spat West Coast

UTKD

Pongwe Beach Hotel Pongwe Beach, North–east coast

Blue Bay Beach Resort & Spa Kiwengwa, North–east coast

UTKD

UTKD

$140-$180

$75-$125

As its name suggests, the Sea Cliff Resort is situated on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean featuring panoramic views. There are 120 luxury rooms of which 96 offer incredible ocean views from the bedrooms and private balconies. This is a hotel built with location in mind. It is a unique combination of modern facilities mixed with the original exotic architecture of historical Zanzibar. Facilities include two pools, the Shwari Spa and a water sports centre based on the beach a short walk down the cliff. You can enjoy breakfast overlooking the ocean or have dinner under the stars, or a sundowner on the jetty. The choice is yours.

Protected by a coral reef one kilometer off shore, Pongwe is a secluded bay on the north-east coast of Zanzibar and is the perfect place to stay for water sport enthusiasts. The Pongwe Beach Hotel is a small complex of 16 traditional beachside cottages. The sea view cottages have lime wash walls and thatched roofs made from woven palm leaves. All cottages have en-suite bathrooms, with Moroccan style walk in showers and a private terrace. The size of this resort allows staff to maintain a high standard of service and even during peak-season the atmosphere at the Pongwe Beach Hotel remains relaxed, intimate and exclusive.

Situated on the north east coast, Blue Bay Beach Resort & Spa is spread amongst 30 acres of tropical gardens which stretch down to the sandy white beach. There are five styles of accommodation available, from Garden Rooms featuring four poster beds and private balconies to the Sultans Suites with their own private beach and butler service. The resort caters for the tastes and interests of both those who prefer relaxing on the beach and those who like their holidays filled with activity. Facilities on offer include an array of land and water-based sports activities, a kids club, spa and five restaurants.

Dreams of Zanzibar Pwani Machangani, North–east coast

Breezes Beach Club & Spa Bweeju beach, South–east coast

Baraza Villa Resort & Spa Bweeju Beach, South–east coast

UTKD

$100-$150

The Dreams of Zanzibar is a large resort located on the north east coast of Zanzibar and is a five star property offering a wide range of accommodation. There are 104 deluxe rooms surrounded by lush gardens as well as private seafront villas with their own jacuzzi and pool. The five restaurants offer guests an exceptional variety of dining options and the three bars have a relaxing environment to enjoy a refreshing cocktail. Facilities include two swimming pools, the Mvua African Rain Spa, an indoor gym and a water sports centre. The exclusive and elegant atmosphere of the resort is ideal for guests seeking a perfect hideaway.

UTKD

$100-$150

$100-$150

UTKD

$450-$500

Fronting a pristine sandy stretch of beach in the south-east of the island is the privately owned sanctuary, ‘Breezes’. This hotel offers three standards of accommodation, including suites with their own covered outdoor lounge terrace. All rooms have air conditioning, a fridge and sofa and are tastefully decorated in ivory tones with cotton throws, teak wood finishes and Zanzibar carvings. Facilities include a palm-fringed pool, spa, spiritual awareness centre and dive shop. There are plenty of water-based activities to keep you entertained and day trips around the island can be easily organised if you want to venture further.

Built for indulgence, Baraza, resembles a Sultan’s palace with its central building and its shiny white facade leading to its turquoise coloured pool. Each one of the 30 villas has been designed to characterise classic Swahili architecture featuring dramatic arches, and intricate hand carved decorations. The spacious villas feature luxury interiors, beautiful fabrics, hand carved furniture, brass lanterns, large bathrooms with luxury fittings as well as a spacious terrace and private plunge pool. Activities include water sports, wellness centre and of course fine dining which is included in accommodation packages.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

17


Gorillas, chimps & more – Uganda & Rwanda With only 700 mountain gorillas left in the world, spending time with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is something only a limited number of people will ever do. Guided groups of up to eight visitors trek daily to spend around an hour with a family of gorillas. In Rwanda you drive a half day from the city of Kigali before reaching the start of your trek, in Uganda a nine hour drive from Kampala takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where the treks begin. Seeing the gorillas is one of the few travel experiences remaining where an hour will seem like a minute and you will be left totally speechless. Permits are required for each gorilla trek and the fees charged help maintain tourism within the local area and sustain the gorilla’s natural environment. Extend your stay in Uganda or Rwanda to trek the Golden Monkey route, encounter the chimpanzees and visit local communities for a truly memorable experience.

Rwanda Gorilla Express AAKK3S 3 days Kigali to Kigali

Kigali - Gorilla trek Volcanoes National Park - Kigali $500-$550

OSXKH

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 You will be met at Kigali airport by your guide. Those arriving in the morning will participate in a city tour, visiting the cultural centre and genocide memorial, before driving to the national park. Day 2 Today you will trek with the rangers into the mountains in a small group of eight and spend time with a family of mountain gorillas. The rest of the day is at your leisure, with the option to visit a local village or trek a mountain trail. Day 3 Drive to Kigali. For those wishing to visit the mountain gorillas, this three day trip offers the most accessible opportunity. Volcanoes National Park, one of only four forests where these primates inhabit, is an afternoon’s drive from Kigali, and hosts several gorilla family groups. We encourage you to stay longer in this stunning country, however if you only have a few days then this tour is a great option. Accommodation: Kinigi Guest Hotel* This option is in our budget range, other categories are available on request.

Gorillas and the Golden Monkey Trail AAKK4S 4 day Kigali to Kigali

Kigali - Gorilla trek Volcanoes National Park - Golden Monkey Trek - Kigali $550-$600

OSXKH

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 You will be met at Kigali airport by your guide. Those arriving in the morning will participate in a city tour, visiting the cultural centre and genocide memorial, before driving to the national park. Day 2 Today you will trek with rangers into the mountains in a small group of eight and spend time with a family of mountain gorillas. The rest of the day is at your leisure, you can visit a village or trek a mountain trail. Day 3 Choose to trek to the Golden Monkeys, or visit Dian Fossey’s grave within the forest Day 4 Drive to Kigali. Combining a visit to the mountain gorillas and a trek to see the Golden Monkeys, this four day tour is perfect if you are keen to try both of the primate treks available in the Volcanoes National Park. This magic journey really does make your stay in Rwanda a special one. Accommodation: Kinigi Guest Hotel* This option is in our budget range, other categories are available on request.

18

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Gorillas and Lake Safari KK5 5 days Kampala to Kampala Kampala - Gorilla trek - Lake Bunyoni $200-$250

VXFKG

Tour departs selected Thursdays

ITINERARY: Day 1–4 Our drive today takes us to Lake Bunyoni, Africa’s deepest Crater Lake, where we will be based before starting our gorilla treks. Dependant on where trekking permits are available, we trek in the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or the Ruhengeri National Park in Rwanda. Whilst waiting for your day of trekking, you can visit a local village, hike in the surrounding hills, take a bird watching walk, visit the local markets of Kabale, or swim in tranquil Lake Bunyoni. The forested region straddling the Virunga Volcanoes on the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo is the only natural habitat left where mountain gorillas still survive. Staring into the soft brown eyes of a gorilla is an experience not to be forgotten, and by visiting them you will be helping to fund their preservation and survival. Accommodation: Camping.

Gorillas across borders AAKE5S 5 days Kigali to Kampala

Kigali - Gorilla trek Volcanoes National Park - Gorilla trek Bwindi Impenetrable forest - Kampala $760-$800

OSXKH

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Departing from Kampala you will pass through Uganda’s lush highlands before entering Rwanda and Volcanoes National Park. Day 2 Today is a day to remember as you trek with experienced rangers to find and spend time with, a family of rare mountain gorillas. Day 3 Your drive today takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. Day 4 Having visited the gorillas in Rwanda, today gives you the opportunity to really experience the day to day life of the gorillas, as you relax and enjoy your second encounter. Day 5 Return to Kampala for your onward journey. This tour offers travellers the opportunity to visit mountain gorilla families in two countries, Rwanda and Uganda. Trek amongst the spectacular mountain scenery these nations have to offer and experience gorilla encounters which you can truly treasure. Accommodation: Kinigi Guest Hotel, Gorilla Resort Camp* This option is in our budget range, other categories are available upon request.

People and primates AAKE7S 7 days Kigali to Kampala

Kigali - Gorilla trek Volcanoes National Park - Golden Monkey Trek - Queen Elizabeth National Park - Kazinga Channel - Kibale Chimpanzee tracking - Kampala $450-$500

OSXFKH

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Visit Kigali’s genocide museum and travel to Volcanoes National Park. Day 2 Spend time trekking into the forest to sit only metres away from a family of mountain gorillas. Day 3 Choose to trek to see the Golden Monkey, one of Africa’s rarest primates, or visit Dian Fossey’s grave. Day 4 Head to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an evening game drive. Day 5 Enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you will experience wildlife within close proximity. Day 6 Spend the day tracking chimpanzees in Kibale National Park. Day 7 Return to Kampala. This aptly named trip encourages you to spend time with both the people and wildlife of Uganda and Rwanda. Visiting patches of primate inhabited forests, and wildlife rich national parks, along with local communities, this tour provides a good sample of these beautiful countries. Accommodation: Kinigi Guest Hotel, Bushara Island Camp, Simba Safari Camp, Rujuni Guest House* This option is in our budget range, other categories are available upon request. 1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

19


UGANDA & RWANDA Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla trek AAEE8S 8 days Kampala to Kampala

Kampala -Kazinga Channel - Queen Elizabeth National Park - Bwindi Impenetrable forest - Volcanoes National Park- Lake Mburo - Kigali $600-$680

OSXFKH

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 After departing Kampala and crossing the equator you will discover the fascinating crater lakes of Queen Elizabeth Park. Day 2 Enjoy a game drive before boarding a boat for a cruise along the Kazinga Channel. Day 3 Look out for tree climbing lions as you travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Day 4 With only 700 mountain gorillas left in the wild, today is your opportunity to spend time with a family on your first gorilla trek Day 5 Proceed to Volcanoes National Park. Day 6 A second opportunity to spend time with the gorillas. Day 7 Take an evening boat ride on Lake Mburo. Day 8 Return to Kampala. This tour includes two gorilla treks to visit the mountain gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda, and showcases a selection of national parks, waterways and lakes to give travellers a glimpse of the unique wildlife on offer. Accommodation: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Kinigi Guest House, Rwonyo Camp* This option is in our budget range, other categories are available upon request.

LakeS, Mountains, Forests and Gorillas CS12401 11 days Kigali to Entebbe

Gorilla trek In rwanda and uganda - Queen Elizabeth National Park - Entebbe

OSXFKG

$500-$550

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Meet and greet, transfer to your hotel. Day 2–3 Drive to Lake Kivu. Spend the afternoon and all of the following day at leisure to enjoy the lake and the optional activities. Day 4 Drive to Volcanoes National Park. Trek to view the golden monkeys. Day 5 Early morning gorilla tracking followed by afternoon visit to the local markets and village. Day 6–7 Drive to Uganda and enter Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The following day, enjoy a trek to track gorillas. Day 8 Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, visiting the Maramagambo Forest. Day 9 Early morning game drive and afternoon on the Kazinga Channel. Day 10–11 Return to Entebbe for a day of leisure. This road adventure combines the best features of Rwanda and Uganda with opportunities to view gorillas in both countries. You will also look for golden monkeys, baboons and other primates. Break up the wildlife treks with a relaxing time on the shores of Lake Kivu and explore Kazinga. Also included are shopping visits in some fascinating local markets. This is a fantastic way to appreciate the beauty of this spectacular region. Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Gorilla Volcanoes Hotel, Gorilla Resort Bwindi, Jacana Safari Lodge, Windsor Lake Victoria Hotel.

Untouched Uganda UG12302B 12 days Entebbe to Entebbe

Entebbe - Murchison Falls - Kibale Forest - Queen Elizabeth National Park Gorilla trek Bwindi Impenetrable forest - Lake Mburo - Entebbe $500-$550

OSXFKG

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Afternoon visit to the Uganda wildlife education centre. Days 2–3 Spend two days at Murchison Falls. Cross the Nile by ferry and visit the base of the falls on a boat tour. Days 4–5 Travel to Kibale Forest to track chimpanzees on foot. Days 6–7 View wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park and on a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel. Days 8–10 Have lunch at Maramgambo Forest. Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Enjoy two separate treks to view the rare mountain gorillas. Day 11 Take a game drive through the Lake Mburo region. Day 12 Return to Entebbe. One of our favourite countries, Uganda is a nation of friendly people, spectacular flora and abundant wildlife. This safari combines popular experiences, such as trekking to see the mountain gorillas, with undisturbed pockets of nature, making this tour a real gem. Accommodation: The Boma House, Nile Camp, Kibale Primate Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Buhoma Homestead, Mihingo Luxury Lodge. 20

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Victoria Falls Witness the thundering might of the Zambezi River as it drops 108 metres into a series of winding, cavernous gorges which flow-on to form a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Standing at the height of the Falls, across a 1.7 km wide cliff face, you become saturated with spray from the sheer volume of water surrounding you. It is no wonder that this site features on many a traveller’s bucket list. But there is more on offer than just the falls. Over the years a range of travel experiences have developed in this region, including white-water rafting, bungy jumping and scenic flights, making Victoria Falls one of the most activity-oriented destinations on the continent. A stay of several days is highly recommended. Most travellers stay between three and seven days at the Falls, often combining their stay with a visit to neighbouring Botswana for a safari lodge experience in Chobe National Park. Or visit the unique camps and lodges located in the wilderness of the Okavango Delta. A range of accommodation styles is available and we suggest you pre-book your activites if you are visiting for just a few days.

The Falls Experience

This package suits any length of stay and includes all the essentials.

• Return transfers: Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to your hotel. After your stay you will be returned to the airport for your onward journey. • Bed and breakfast: Choose from our top selling properties on the opposite page, or find your own hotel and we will book it for you. • Tour of the Falls: Our experienced guides will show you the best lookouts and take you along walking tracks closest to the Falls, as well as share their stories about early explorers and local legends. • Fees: Includes national park entry fees. • Sunset cruise: Spend the late afternoon and evening on the beautiful Zambezi River, enjoying a sundowner at sunset.

Activity packages

Choose from the following activities to create an activity package which complements your Falls Experience. White water rafting: White water rafting to the extreme on the Zambezi River. Not for the faint-hearted, this is a fast ride and a must for the adventure junkie. River safari: Take a gentler approach to the river and board a split level cruise boat for a leisurely meander on the Zambezi. Helicopter / small aircraft: Marvel at the Falls from above, appreciate their magnificence as they form part of the landscape at large. Elephant-back safari: Not just an adventure but also a learning experience, this encounter will change your perception of elephants forever. Walk with lions: Become part of the pride as lions allow you to walk alongside them as they go about their day, an unbelievable experience. Bungy jump: Where else can you jump off a bridge which divides two countries then dangle above one of the world’s mightiest rivers? If Bungy jumping does not satisfy you, then terrify yourself with the Bridge Swing which swings across the ravine. Bridge climb: If you have completed the Sydney Harbour bridge climb then why not add the Victoria Falls bridge climb to your achievements. Incidentally, both bridges were designed by the same engineer, Sir Ralph Freeman. Canoe the Zambezi: Canoe down the Zambezi River where you can enjoy the stunning sight of Victoria Falls.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

21


victoria falls – zambia The Zambian town of Livingstone, where many travellers base themselves for their visit to the Falls, dates back to the days of colonial exploration. It still holds its charm and is a little less touristy than its southern neighbour. Bordering the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, it offers travellers local excursions which can include a trip across the border. The Falls can be viewed from below and above with the most recent trend being to swim in the Devils Pool at the edge of the escarpment. In the dryer months, between September and December, water levels can be so low that many travellers choose to stay on the Zimbabwe side.

The Zambezi Waterfront

Zambezi Sun

UD

The Royal Livingstone

UTD

UTD

$90-$130

$110-$125

$350-$375

For those on a tight budget, the Zambezi Waterfront complex offers a variety of accommodation types. There are 10 standard twin chalets, six units of which overlook the river, three executive rooms and four family rooms. Although predominantly a campsite used by overlanding companies, the Waterfront is a friendly place with lush gardens and a central dining complex with stunning views both up and down river. A raised wooden deck stretches out over the river with a unique plunge pool, a bar and restaurant.

The Zambezi Sun is a big, fun complex with friendly staff and a host of facilities that will easily occupy you during your stay. Located near the eastern cataract of Victoria Falls, the mist from the Falls is often seen drifting across this resort-style hotel. The large pool complex appeals to all travellers with children especially welcome. There is always something going on at the Zambezi Sun and thanks to its affordability you may have some extra cash available to splash out on the extra activities.

On the forested banks of the Zambezi River and upstream from the cataract is the Royal Livingstone Hotel. This luxurious and elegant hotel has cool lounges and shaded verandas which reflect a blend of old and new styles. With 173 spacious rooms with private balconies, a dining room, lounge, sun deck and bar, this hotel has all the facilities of a grand hotel. The large swimming pool, spa and gardens are extravagant and the five star service creates an opulent atmosphere for all guests.

David Livingstone Safari Lodge

Tongabezi Safari Lodge

The River Club

SUTF

SUTKFD

$250-$275

$550-$580

Set amongst bushland on the Zambezi River this charming 72 room safari-style lodge is situated half way between the township of Livingstone and the entrance to Victoria Falls. The lodge has spacious outdoor and social areas and each room has its own private balcony. Facilties include a spa and sparkling swimming pool, with decks flowing out towards the river. The lodge has great views of the river providing game viewing on-site and includes game activities for those wishing to partake in the safari packages available.

Nestled in bushland upstream from Victoria Falls and offering a touch of isolation, Tongabezi’s five suites and six cottages are perfect for romantics and honeymooners alike. All meals, game drives, boat trips and a host of other activities are included in the rates, making this lodge great value. Tongabezi’s sister lodge Sindabezi is popular with honeymooners in particular, with suites built for ultimate privacy. The unique location, situated on an island in the river, gives guests the illusion of being part of the river and the Falls. The service at both lodges is impeccable and renowned.

22

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

7

$550-$600

SUFD

6

Located on a bend in the Zambezi River, the River Club, with its Edwardian-style accommodation and manicured lawns, is one of the finest hotels in Zambia. Its wide veranda has hosted Hollywood stars and royalty and in true colonial style the Club includes a croquet lawn and serves high tea in the afternoons. Fine dining here is presented both in and outdoors, with an emphasis on fine wines to accompany the delicious fresh food. The atmosphere at the River Club mirrors the days of country clubs, when travellers came in droves to experience the Falls and the opulent holiday style on offer. Enjoy a Pimm’s by the riverside pool for a stylish safari experience.


victoria falls – zimbabwe Imagine the sheer force of over 500 million litres of water literally falling off the edge of a 108 metre high cliff face and you have captured the falls from the Zimbabwe side. Lookouts offer a view of the expanse of the falls, with walking tracks getting right amongst them as you meander through the surrounding national park. The township called Victoria Falls is full of curio shops, restaurants and bars which offer a social scene close to most hotels. This small pocket of Zimbabwe is safe for visitors. With most excursions nearby and its own international airport, Victoria Falls is a perfect base for a visit to the region.

The Kingdom $110-$140

UTD

Ilala Lodge $120-$150

The Victoria Falls Hotel

UD

$160-$200

UTD

This large, African-themed hotel has a private walkway into town and all the facilities you need for a relaxing break or a family holiday. Its three restaurants, four swimming pools and four bars are all decorated in African decor, giving you the feeling that you are in the heart of southern Africa. The decor is full of character and forms part of the hotels persona. The Kingdom is an easy pick up point for day trips, making it a popular hotel for travellers wanting convenience.

A favourite amongst many, the Ilala Lodge is a colonial-style hotel located only a few minutes from town. With only 32 rooms its staff can deliver a personal touch, making your stay a relaxing one reminiscent of a bygone era when travellers stayed for weeks or months. The Lodge’s pool and bar lead onto the outdoor terrace, which overlooks vast lawns where animals occasionally wander from the nearby national park.

A historic icon built in 1904, the Victoria Falls Hotel is well renowned for its colonial charm and character, along with its exceptional service. The hotel’s Edwardian architecture and manicured, tropical grounds depict its grandeur and grace. The immense terrace and pool area offers the perfect vantage point for gazing across to the Falls and it is here that nightly barbeque buffets and cultural evenings are held. As a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, this hotel should not be missed.

The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

The Stanley & Livingstone

Elephant Camp

UTD

UAD

$170-$200

$250-$300

4

$300-$350

Set high on a natural plateau, the westward facing Victoria Falls Safari Lodge borders the Zambezi National Park and is just four kilometres from the thundering Victoria Falls. All 72 rooms are decorated in lavishly coloured ethnic fabrics and fittings, and boast the highest level of sophistication and comfort. Each has its own balcony overlooking the national park, whilst most look onto the natural waterhole. This feature is the focal point of the entire resort and provides excellent game and bird viewing opportunities throughout the year. In the Buffalo Bar, MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant and at the pool deck, friendly staff offer excellent service and outstanding cuisine.

The Stanley and Livingstone is more than just a hotel, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This small luxury hotel, situated on a 6,000 acre private reserve just 10 minutes drive from Victoria Falls, consists of 16 exquisite suites each with a spacious bedroom, Victorian-style bathroom, gracious lounge and individual secluded patios overlooking tropical gardens and nearby waterholes. The Stanley and Livingstone offers impeccable service, with breakfast overlooking the bush, and dinner under the stars, your stay will be unforgettable.

NUKAD

7

The Elephant Camp offers its guests breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls spray, and the spectacular gorges which separate Zimbabwe and Zambia. Elephant Camp is a luxurious and intimate lodge under canvas within easy reach of Victoria Falls. It’s location is secluded in its own private game reserve so as to allow close-up encounters with wildlife. All guests staying at The Elephant Camp will have an opportunity to meet the Wild Horizons elephant herd. The Camp offers exclusive suite accommodation for only 18 guests in nine luxury tents. All suites face the gorge and boast a private viewing deck and plunge pool.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

23


botswana The Kalahari Desert, home to the traditionally nomadic San people, sprawls over 80% of Botswana. However it is the waterways of the Okavango Delta, which is the major drawcard for many travellers to the country.

The Okavango Delta spreads over 15,000 sq km of Botswana. Travellers can fly by small aircraft to isolated, fully inclusive lodges, or camp amongst its islands to view the wildlife of the Delta. Lodges here encourage animal viewing from water craft, allowing visitors to travel along the waterways of the Delta. Travel deeper into the heartland of Botswana to discover the Kalahari and the unique Makgadikgadi salt pans. Travellers can join tours journeying deep into the wilderness of Botswana or create their own personal package by combining a visit to the Delta with a visit to Chobe National Park. Chobe is Botswana’s most popular park and famous for its proliferation of elephants. Add on a trip to Victoria Falls for a full experience of the region, with the famous Falls only one hour road transfer from Chobe, or Kasane, the gateway airport to the Delta. Below are three possible combinations, with tips on travel times, transport, and suggested inclusions to help plan your holiday to Botswana.

Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta

• K asane, in Botswana, is the nearest airport to the lodges in Chobe National Park. • To combine Chobe and the Delta, you need to fly by light aircraft from Kasane, as most lodges are only accessible by small planes. These flights are included in Delta lodge packages.

• Fly from your Delta camp out to / from Maun,

Botswana as this is usually not as far as Kasane and will keep your costs down.

• Fly from Maun to your next destination. Your camp will arrange your light aircraft flight to arrive in Maun in time to connect.

• Lodges include all meals and at least two game activities daily. We suggest at least two nights stay at each location.

24

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park

Victoria Falls, Chobe & the Delta

• Victoria Falls and Livingstone are around one

• Most travellers choose to travel from north to

• Include a one way airport transfer to your

• We suggest at least two nights at each location

• Choose your activities and the number of nights

• Create your Victoria Falls travel plans by

• A sk for a road transfer from your Victoria Falls hotel to your Chobe National Park game lodge.

• Transfer by road from your hotel to your

and a half hours road transfer from Chobe National Park. Victoria Falls hotel in your package. you wish to stay at Victoria Falls.

• Try to arrive at the lodge in time for an

afternoon game activity. Lodges in Chobe National Park include meals and two game activities daily.

• Try to stay in Chobe two nights if possible. • The nearest airport to Chobe National Park is

Kasane, Botswana, but flights are not daily so you should consider flying out of Victoria Falls or Livingstone, and include a transfer back to the airport.

1300 550 221

south (Victoria Falls to Maun) with the Delta as a treat at the end of their journey. and more at Victoria Falls if possible.

choosing your accommodation, activities and a one way airport transfer from the airport. Chobe National Park lodge.

• From Chobe you will be transferred by light

aircraft from Kasane to your camp in the Delta. Your Chobe lodge will transfer you to Kasane airport for your flight.

• After your stay you will fly by light aircraft out to Maun to connect to your onward flight.

• Lodges in Chobe and the Delta include all

meals and at least two game activities daily.


Chobe Marina Lodge KASANE

Chobe Game Lodge Chobe National Park

SFKUD

Chobe Chilwero Lodge Chobe National Park

SFKAUTD

SFKUAUT

$275-$325

$400 - $450

$550 - $600

Chobe Marina Lodge offers a variety of accommodation styles and is central to many sights. The choice of accommodation includes thatched studios, apartments, chalets and suites, all with private lounges and modern comforts, all overlooking the Zambezi River or the landscaped gardens. This inclusive lodge offers two game activities per day and all meals within its rates. The pool is set amongst lush gardens with prolific wildlife, such as fish eagle, warthog, squirrel and mongoose sightings, offering guests close up animal encounters. There is also a spa within the grounds for those who enjoy relaxing body treatments.

This popular lodge is famous for its extensive range of guest activities. Game drives throughout the park are taken in 4WDs and game viewing on the Chobe River itself is enjoyed by small, shallow and highly manoeuvrable boats. This lodge is the only lodge within Chobe National Park that is located on the river. Due to its position access to wildlife is easy and professional guides are available to give wildlife talks, star gazing presentations and walking safaris in the nearby Kasane forests. The lodge has 47 rooms all with private terraces which face the river. Facilities include a swimming pool, beauty spa and gym and a complementary mini-bar.

Bordering Chobe National Park this is an incredibly luxurious lodge with just 15 guest cottages. Each cottage has its own private garden where guests can sip cocktails and enjoy their own private dinner served under an African sky. The lodge offers fabulous views over the Chobe River which attracts vast herds of thirsty elephants, as well as buffalo which live in the nearby teak forests. Chilwero combines serious game viewing with serious pampering. Guests are taken on a selection of game drives in the morning and late afternoon with plenty of time to be pampered at the spa, to relax by the pool, or indulge in the fine cuisine for which the lodge is famous.

Savute Safari Lodge Chobe National park fly-in

Camp Kalahari Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Jacks Camp–Makgadikgadi Pans and Kalahari Desert

$380-$430

SFKUD

6

Overlooking the Savuti Channel, this recently refurbished 12 suite safari lodge boasts an expansive viewing deck, al fresco dining area and swimming pool which face the parklands for prime wildlife viewing. Renowned for its population of bull elephants the area surrounding the lodge is animal rich. Guests are taken on open 4WD game drives into the Savuti National Park, including a visit to the well known Savuti Marsh to view the ancient rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills. Savuti is famous for its big cats and predators in general. The reputation of this region attracts many well travelled guests with small aircraft its main access.

$380-$420

NFKD

NFKUD

$650-$700

Nestled amongst the acacias on the edge of the Makgadikgadi National Park, Camp Kalahari offers an affordable experience off the main tourist route. There are 10 safari style permanent tents plus social areas to relax in and it is familyfriendly. Activities include walking with Bushmen guides to view desert fauna and flora such as baobab trees which are the oldest and biggest trees in Africa, game drives, and interacting with habituated meerkats. Depending on the season, there is also quad biking across the salt pans in the dry season and viewing the spectacular zebra and wildebeest migration during the wet season.

There are few places in the world like Jack’s Camp. Built where Jack Bousfield set up camp 50 years ago, this 1940s style camp of 10 stylishly designed safari tents takes travellers back in time. Activities are driven by the seasons. During the dry season quad biking across the great salt pans is offered, while the wet season brings with it the spectacular zebra and wildebeest migration. Activities on offer year round include: interacting with the friendly, local meerkats, walking with Bushmen guides, game drives amongst the unique desert wildlife and a visit to Chapman’s Baobab - one of the oldest and biggest trees in Africa. For a completely unique and special African experience you cannot beat a stay at Jack’s Camp.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

25


botswana

Camp Okavango The Okavango Delta

Pom Pom Camp The Okavango Delta

NFKUD

$370-$400

NFKUD

$370-$400

8

Shinde Camp The Okavango Delta 8

NFKUD

$500-$550

10

Deep in the heart of the Okavango Delta on Nxaragha Island, Camp Okavango is a popular mid-sized lodge. It accommodates 24 guests in African-style safari tents, each with its own private viewing deck. The social areas feature a cocktail bar and relaxing lounge, plunge pool and a dining room leading onto an expansive open-air patio for evenings around the fire. A secluded bird viewing hide allows extraordinary close encounters as the birds are unaware of your presence. All game viewing activities are conducted by professional guides and include exploring the Okavango Delta by boat, and mokoro, and tracking the larger game on walking safaris.

A camp for the safari traditionalist with game viewing, mokoro trips and fishing on offer. Located in the heart of the Okavango Delta within the Matsebe concession, Pom Pom Camp overlooks a scenic lagoon where hippo grunt and frolic in front of the camp’s permanent lagoon. This family-friendly camp has nine large luxury safari tents and the main thatched building offers a cosy bar, lounge and a communal dining area. Guests spend their time on day and night drives, mokoro excursions, boat cruises, game walks and fishing trips. This friendly camp is great value for those who want to get into the heart of the Delta without breaking their budget.

Situated within the Shinde concession on the permanent waters of the Okavango Delta, Shinde is an intimate safari tent camp. Each of the eight twin-bedded tents are strategically positioned to offer splendid views, either across the Okavango Delta’s mysterious waterways or onto open grasslands. Shinde offers guests a unique social area consisting of a multi-tiered dining room and lounge set under canvas and amongst the shade of ebony and mangosteen trees. Some favourite activities include Mokoro excursions, game drives and fly fishing. As one of the original Safari camps, Shinde has very experienced staff and is dedicated to looking after its guests.

Baines Camp The Okavango Delta

Chiefs Camp Moremi Game Reserve

Abu Camp The Okavango Delta

$600-$650

NFKUD

12

Baines Camp is a small environmentally-friendly camp that was built on recycled tin cans using commercially grown wood. The five suites are luxuriously designed with en-suite facilities and four-poster beds. Fancy a night under the stars? Your bed can be wheeled out onto your private wooden deck for a night to remember. For an unforgettable experience, try bushwalking with elephants! Three semi-habituated elephants, Jabu, Thembi and Morula, were orphaned nearby and now take guests on long walks, foraging in the area with the camp’s guides. Baines is a five star camp with service of a high standard and experiences including fishing, game viewing and cultural visits.

26

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

NFKUD

$950- $1000

9

Once a royal hunting ground owned by Chief Moremi himself, Chiefs Island is now home to Chiefs Camp. This area is prolific with game, with a reputation as ‘the predator capital of Africa’, so your chances of seeing cats here are good. The 12 guest pavilions are concealed by a woodland of jackal berry and sausage trees, which are characteristic of the area. All pavilions have their own deck, indoor and outdoor showers, traditional decor, thatched roof and open areas for relaxing. The island is created by seasonal floodwaters, and it is the Delta which gives the camp it’s personality. The social areas have a casual atmosphere and include viewing decks which blend with the surrounding waters.

1300 550 221

$1900 - $2200

NFKUD

12

Abu Camp re-opened in 2011 after a total refurbishment. This eco-friendly camp with only six organically built safari tents is a haven of peace immersed within the private 180,000 hectare Abu Concession. As a guest of Abu Camp you have the opportunity to walk with elephants and to gain an insight into their lives. Mixing with an African elephant herd is an extraordinary privilege that the camp shares with its guests exclusively. Abu Camp is one of the most exclusive camps in the Delta attracting return guests year after year. It is popular with honeymooners, couples and those with specific widlife viewing, and the amazing elephant experience, in mind.


The Falls and Chobe

WVV4 4 days Victoria Falls to Victoria Falls Victoria Falls - Chobe National Park $300-$340

SKUFORA

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Transfer to Victoria Falls Safari Lodge for a two night stay. Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Day 2 Enjoy a guided tour of the Falls from the Zimbabwe side. Game view at the Lodge’s waterhole and sit down to a traditional Boma style dinner. Day 3 Transfer to the Chobe Marina Lodge. Located minutes from the entrance to the park, this popular lodge offers various activities, including a small boat cruise on the Chobe River this afternoon. Day 4 An early start to the day sees you enjoy an included game drive in the national park. Transfer to Victoria Falls airport Visit magnificent Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River, as well as Chobe National Park, home to 70,000 elephants. This package offers four days of cultural activities, wildlife viewing and a close look at Africa’s most famous natural wonder. Accommodation: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Chobe Marina Lodge.

From the Falls to the Delta WVM5 5 days Victoria Falls to Maun Victoria Falls - Okavango Delta $400-$550

SKUFORAE

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Transfer to Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. Take time to use the lodge’s facilities. In the late afternoon join a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Day 2 Visit the Zimbabwe side of the Falls on a fully guided tour, game view at the lodge’s waterhole, before enjoying a traditional, outdoor Boma style feast. Day 3–4 Take a small aircraft over the waterways of the Delta to Pom Pom Camp. The nine luxury, thatch and canvas safari tents, positioned perfectly amongst the bush, offer an intimate safari experience. Choose from a selection of included activities such as game drives, mokoro (canoe) rides, fishing, and guided walks. Day 5 Scenic flight to Maun. This traditional safari combines Victoria Falls and the spectacular Okavango Delta. Accommodation has been chosen for its service, relaxed ambience, and perfect location. Accommodation: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Pom Pom Camp.

A Sanctuary in Botswana WVM6 6 days Victoria Falls to Maun

Victoria Falls - Chobe National Park - Okavango Delta $580-$630

SKUTFORAE

Tours depart daily

ITINERARY: Day 1 Transfer to the Royal Livingstone hotel. Take time to enjoy this magnificent colonial hotel before embarking on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Day 2–3 Enjoy a guided tour of Victoria Falls from the Zambian side, before transferring to Chobe Chilwero Lodge. This lodge is located on the Chobe River and is intimate with just 15 cottages. Activities include small boat cruises and game drives, offering close up animal encounters. Day 4–5 A scenic flight takes you across the Delta to Baines Camp. Situated in a region known for its big cat sightings, Baines Camp is very private with only five suites, all with four-poster beds and individual decks. Day 6 Fly to Maun for your onward connection. Visit Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta, a wild wilderness of waterways and bushland. Accommodation is at five star Sanctuary resorts known for their impeccable service and unbeatable locations. Accommodation: The Royal Livingstone Hotel, Chobe Chilwero Lodge, Baines Camp. 1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

27


south africa South Africa has something for everyone, from shark diving and cycling through the Cape’s wine lands, to excellent game parks and the township of Soweto. The country is a melting pot of Dutch, English and African influences, which combined make for an interesting blend of people, food, customs and architecture. South Africa’s cities and towns are easy to navigate if self driving, or you can choose from a number of organised tours if preferred. South Africa is one of the few countries in Africa that offers a wide range of hotels, resorts and lodges. With numerous national parks, a beautiful coastline and the famous garden route to explore, the opportunities to enjoy outdoor experiences and game viewing in South Africa are endless. Many game lodges are located in private park concessions, enabling the lodge-based rangers to track even the most elusive animals to within metres of your safari vehicle. With all this on offer there is never a dull moment on a South African holiday.

Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the economic and cultural centre of South Africa and for many an entry point into Africa. This cosmopolitan city has a good range of hotels near the airport and in surrounding suburbs, along with a host of great places to eat. Many travellers overnight in Johannesburg before catching a connecting flight to Kruger National Park or to another African city. A day trip to the nearby township of Soweto, where the uprisings of 1976 resulted in the demise of apartheid, is definitely worthwhile and can be pre-booked prior to your departure.

Airport Hotels

Sandton Hotels

Rosebank Hotels

After a short ride in the complimentary shuttle bus from Johannesburg airport you will arrive at the Emperor’s Palace. This complex offers four different hotels of varying standards, as well as an entertainment and restaurant quarter. Emperor’s Palace is located close to the airport and particularly convenient if you are stopping over in Johannesburg en route to elsewhere.

Hotels in Sandton cater to both tourists and business clients with a host of bars and restaurants and the huge Nelson Mandela Shopping Centre within easy walking distance. The high speed train built for the FIFA World Cup, the Gautrain, stops in Sandton and is only a few stations from Johannesburg airport.

This residential suburb situated about 40 minutes from the airport is a popular social hub for travellers wanting to escape the airport and main tourist areas. Hotels in this area are well presented with pools, spas and manicured grounds. There are several shopping centres and local restaurants nearby.

Recommendations include:

Recommendations include:

3 star – Garden Court Sandton City

3 star – Courtyard Hotel Rosebank

4 star - Holiday Inn Sandton

4 star - The Crowne Plaza Rosebank

5 star - Radisson Blu

5 star – The Grace in Rosebank

Recommendations include: •

3 star - Metcourt Hotel and Metcourt Suites

4 star – Mondior Hotel

5 star – Peermont D’Oreale Grand

28

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Sun City, Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Located around two-and-a-half hours drive west of Johannesburg is the resort complex of Sun City. With its four hotels, two golf courses, a giant wave and water complex, a casino and an entertainment centre which attracts international talent, Sun City has just about everything. Adjoining Sun City is Pilanesberg National Park and resort guests can go on game drives in the National Park whilst staying at Sun City. Alternatively, lodge accommodation within the National Park is also available. Adding a few days in Sun City to your stay in South Africa gives you some time to relax and regenerate in resort style.

The Cabanas Sun City

UD

The Sun City Hotel Sun City

Cascades Sun City

UTD

UTD

$200-$230

$230-$280

$250 - $280

The low-rise Cabanas is a large family-friendly hotel. Built on vast lawns, the complex includes children’s playgrounds, a kids club and family entertainment. The 380 rooms are comfortable with funky bright decor and have balconies or outdoor seating areas which extend the room size. Relaxed and casual, the complex offers a cafe style restaurant, large pool, as well as plenty of open spaces for children to run around. There is also a water theme park with canoes, parasailing and speed boats to hire. Cabanas attracts families and those travelling on a budget.

The first hotel constructed at Sun City, this hotel has had many face lifts since its creation. The current image is very modern with bold colourful design and decor. It has multiple restaurants, a stylish casino, theatre and multi-faceted swimming pool complex at its centre. The multistorey hotel has 340 rooms each equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities and 24-hour in-room dining. The rooms offer views of the pool or the Gary Player designed golf course which hosts the Nedbank Golf Challenge annually. A resort in itself, Sun City Hotel is in the centre of the Sun City complex and attracts guests of all ages.

Designed to blend into the lush tropical vegetation surrounding it, Cascades is a multi storey hotel close to the restaurant quarter and water park in Sun City. The hotel’s unique terraced shape provides all 243 rooms with a view of either the pool or golf course. The rooms are decorated in a classic style and contain all the facilities of a modern resort. Cascades offers three swimming pools and their walkways and landscaped gardens offer a peaceful break. There are several restaurants including those built amongst the gardens for a romantic evening.

The Palace of the Lost City Sun City

Shepherds Tree Game Lodge Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Jacis Safari and Tree Lodges Madikwe Game Reserve

UTD

FKSUTD

KSFUD

$400–$450

$380–$400

$550–$600

Considered one of the most opulent hotels in the world, it is not surprising The Palace of the Lost City has a guest list that includes Michael Jackson, Tiger Woods and several members of royal families. With the intention to create a palace of a lost African empire, every item in the hotel was designed exclusively and guests are treated as noble guests by every staff member. The stunning pool complex stretches over hectares, the dining rooms feature live music, the list of spa treatments is endless and the private golf course world famous. Surrounded by lush botanic gardens and luxurious artwork, only guests of The Palace are permitted entrance.

Less than 15 minutes drive from Sun City is this five Star game lodge located in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Catering for those wishing to combine the opulence of Sun City with a stay in a game lodge, Shepherds Tree offers extensive game viewing opportunities. The 17 suites have floor to ceiling windows looking out to the bush, outdoor showers and claw baths. They blend the natural materials of stone and wood with a modern African decor in true style. The social areas are stunning with an infinity pool and teak deck bar. The staff here are very professional and it is their generous approach to their guests which makes a stay at Shepherds Tree a real delight.

Jaci’s Lodge is situated in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve which is only two hours from Sun City. The reserve boasts over 75,000 hectares of top game viewing area where you can expect to see wild dog, black and white rhino, lion, spotted and brown hyena, giraffe, buffalo, elephant as well as extensive plains game and over 340 species of birds. As well as the eight luxurious safari rooms and two exclusive family suites which are perfect for small groups, Jaci’s boasts a Tree Lodge with eight unique treetop suites. Constructed on stilts and built utilizing a combination of rosewood decking and thatch, these are decorated in bright colours to match the surrounding bushveld and have a large balcony for relaxing between game drives.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

29


CAPE TOWN For a continent that is not famous for its ‘must see’ cities, Cape Town is an exception. Similar to all harbour cities, it has a laid-back atmosphere, great beaches and a harbour with a vibrant waterfront atmosphere. Add to this what is possibly the most dramatic backdrop in the world, the flattopped, massive Table Mountain, and you can see why so many travellers include Cape Town in their visit to South Africa. Less than two hours by plane from Johannesburg, travellers tend to spend three to seven days in Cape Town. The city offers easy access to such amazing sights and experiences as climbing, or taking the cable car, to the top of Table Mountain, exploring fascinating historical sites, shopping for curios in the plentiful markets and enjoying the entertainment at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Surrounding the city, are a multitude of locations offer a great day out or, for those with time, a few nights stay. Cape Town has a fairly simple motorway system that makes it easy driving to its colonial-style wine towns, or through its coastal villages to the Cape of Good Hope easy. An appealing and relaxing city, Cape Town will entice you.

CAPE TOWN STARTER PACK

Simply pre-book your accommodation or choose our Cape Town starter pack below to kick start your stay.

• You will be greeted at Cape Town airport or rail station and then transferred to your hotel.

• Hop on Hop off bus - city one day bus pass. This is the best way to get

around the city with numerous stops including the cable car station for Table Mountain, coastal suburbs and historical sights.

NEARBY activities

The Western Cape is quite easy to navigate by car so why not hire a car to explore Cape Town’s surrounding sites. Wine and dine: The vine-covered hills of the Cape wine lands are only an hour’s drive away. Let the German village of Stellenbosch and, the French village of Franschhoek transport you to a little piece of Europe.

• Choose the number of nights you would like to stay. Our most popular

Spend your days visiting generous wineries, dining in boutique restaurants and relaxing in colonial-style hotels. Perfect for honeymooners, romantics, or just those who appreciate beautiful wines.

Add an optional day tour:

Suggested of places to stay include Franschhoek Country House and Villas, Franschhoek Hotel and Spa, or Spiers at Stellenbosch.

hotels are listed opposite but we can quote on any hotel you wish.

• Cape of Good Hope – Visit the regions quaint coastal towns with their

antique shops, cafes and the Cape penguin colony before heading to the rocky outcrop that separates the Indian and South Atlantic oceans.

• Wine lands – Spend a day visiting the wineries of the Cape Province and their French and German influenced towns on a fully guided day tour.

• Robben Island – An inspiring visit to where Nelson Mandela and his fellow ANC members were imprisoned. A popular tour, this is best pre-booked.

• Shark Dive – Come face to face with a Great White shark in Shark Alley on this cage dive tour.

30

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

Marine life: Hermanus a quaint town at any time of the year, from July to November it becomes one of the best places in the world to view magnificent whales. They can be seen from the town’s walkways, or to get close up, join a boat trip. Whilst you are in Hermanus and if you are feeling adventurous, there is also shark cage diving at nearby Gans Baai. Hermanus makes the perfect base for these experiences. A leisurely one and a half hour drive over a scenic pass joins the wine lands to Hermanus and a two and a half hour drive returns you to Cape Town, making this route a popular few days extension to a visit to Cape Town.

1300 550 221


Protea Breakwater Lodge V & A Waterfront

D

Cape Town Hollow The Gardens district

Southern Sun Waterfront Hotel V & A Waterfront

UTD

UTD

$100-$150

$130-$180

$150-$180

Once a 19th Century prison, this mid-sized hotel today provides comfortable and affordable accommodation in a spectacular setting that looks over the bay and up onto Table Mountain. It is located just behind the vibrant entertainment quarter of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. This property is comfortable and friendly and in an excellent location. Aside from two restaurants, the hotel offers a convenient 24 hour reception, secure parking, laundry facilities and a mini inhouse gym. Remnants of the old prison, such as the waterwheel, are not hard to find which add a sense of intrigue to your stay.

During the early years of Cape Town, the Dutch East Indies Company built a botanical wonderland called The Gardens for its staff to relax in near the centre of town. Still a popular social area with many cafes, shops and historical residences, The Gardens is the home to the Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel. This property offers stylish accommodation in 56 en-suite, air-conditioned rooms with charming open-air balconies. Facilities include a wellness centre with a gym and beauty treatments and a sparkling pool. There are two restaurants to choose from; with the Amici Restaurant which has an authentic Italian menu and the Patio which offers a streetcafe dining experience, both popular with guests and locals alike.

Wonderful sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean assist in making the Southern Sun Waterfront a preferred business and holiday destination. A mere 15 minutes’ drive from Cape Town International Airport, a five minute walk from the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) and within walking distance to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, this hotel is superbly located to offer every guest easy access to the sights and sounds of Cape Town. Breathtaking views of Table Mountain can be enjoyed from rooms that offer all the quality and comfort you would expect from a full service hotel. Facilities include a fitness centre, pool and convenient meeting rooms and a business centre, the Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town caters for all possible business or leisure traveller needs.

The Victoria & Alfred Hotel V & A Waterfront

The Table Bay hotel V & A Waterfront

The African Elite Waterfront apartments Waterfront Marina

UTD

UTD

D

$250-$280

$370-$400

$150-$180

Built in 1904 as the North Quay Warehouse and converted in 1990 to a luxury hotel, The Victoria & Alfred Hotel is situated right in the middle of Cape Town’s beautifully restored waterfront. Guests can walk safely to the areas retail outlets, restaurants, cinemas and entertainment. Its famous OYO Restaurant and cocktail bar offers views from the harbour to Table Mountain. With 94 spacious well-appointed bedrooms on only three floors, it is the attention to detail that gives the Victoria & Alfred Hotel its elegance and good reputation. All the rooms have tea and coffee making facilities and wireless internet connection and the hotel has a large pool and spa to add relaxation to a prefect stay.

The Table Bay Hotel occupies a prime position at Cape Town’s Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. This five star luxury property captures the elegance of the Victorian era both in the exterior design and interior décor. Each of the 329 designerdecorated rooms and suites offer magnificent views across the bay to Robben Island or the majestic Table Mountain. Guests can enjoy the very best of fine dining at The Atlantic Grill. The Conservatory and Union Bars are the perfect places for sunset drinks having wound down by the pool or at the health spa after a full day of sightseeing. This plush hotel is perfect for anyone wishing to spoil themselves during their stay in Cape Town.

The African Elite Waterfront Apartments are popular with travellers wishing to spend more than a couple of days in Cape Town and preferring to self-cater. Ranging from one to four bedroom apartments, they offer tremendous value for a family or group. Situated in the marina bordering the V & A Waterfront with only several minutes walk to its restaurants, bars and supermarket, the African Elite Waterfront is a secure property with guarded security. These managed apartments include a lounge area and kitchen with some offering balconies and views across the marina and Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. African Elite also manage apartments in the Waterkant Village area which is closer to the CBD.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

31


south africa tours Magical Garden Route

TISD20/40 3 days Cape Town to Port Elizabeth Cape Town - Oudtshoorn - Knysna - Port Elizabeth

Blyde River Canyon

Tour departs Selected MONDAYS, TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS

Panorama Route

Kruger NP Hazyview

SOUTH AFRICA Johannesburg Stellenbosch Franschhoek Cape Town Oudtshoom

XK

$580-$630

SWAZILAND Durban

LESOTHO

Port Elizabeth na Knys Tsitsikamma NP Cape Point Garden Route Game Lodges Hermanus Waenhuiskrans

ITINERARY: Day 1 Visit the quaint town of Swellendam then journey through the sandstone mountains of Huis River, before arriving in the rural centre of Oudtshoorn for your overnight stay. Day 2 Today is a full day, with a visit to an ostrich farm, a guided tour of Cango Caves to admire the stalagmites and stalactites, followed by a scenic drive to Dolphin Point, finishing in the coastal resort of Knysna. Day 3 Continue your journey through ‘millionaires row’ as you visit Plettenberg Bay, before heading to scenic Storm River, then the high trees of Tsitsikamma Forest, followed by Port Elizabeth. This famous Garden Route joins Cape Town with Port Elizabeth. Visit the inland farming communities established by Dutch Voortrekkers centuries ago and modern coastal resorts that make this journey so popular. Accommodation: Protea Riemple Estate, Protea Knysna. After this tour why not add a few extra days at Kareiga Game Lodge near Port Elizabeth for a fantastic game experience.

Panoramic Kruger

The Cape Kaleidoscope

TISD6 4 days Johannesburg to Johannesburg HazyView - Kruger National Park - Makalali Game Reserve Panorama route

SXFK

TISD42 5 days Cape Town to Cape Town

Cape Town - Oudtshoorn - Knysna - Garden route Game Lodge Waenhuiskrans - Hermanus - Cape Point

SXFK

$850-$900

$820-$850

Tour departs Selected SUNDAYS

Tour departs Selected MONDAYS

ITINERARY: Day 1 This morning’s drive takes you to the Kruger with a stop at Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee sanctuary to visit rehabilitated chimps. Day 2 A big day in the Kruger. Game sightings often include lion, large herds of elephant, giraffe, zebra, impala and hippo. Day 3 Your drive today takes you along the spectacular panorama route on the way to your overnight stay at Makalali Game Lodge. Here you will be taken on a ranger-guided game drive before dining in the Lodge’s traditional Boma barbeque. Day 4 Enjoy an early morning game drive at Makalali, before driving back to Johannesburg.

ITINERARY: Day 1 Pass through the semi-desert landscape of the interior and take a guided tour of the Cango Caves, before arriving at Oudtshoorn. Day 2 Today you visit a working ostrich farm and a cheetah sanctuary, before driving to South Africa’s most popular resort, Knysna Day 3 Visit the famous maritime museums of Mossel Bay, before an afternoon game drive at the Garden Route Game Lodge. Day 4 Rise early for a game drive before driving to the coastal town of Waenhuiskrans. Day 5 Today includes a visit to Cape Agulhas, Africa’s most southern point, with possible whale watching at Hermanus, before driving along the scenic Cape Point Reserve.

This four day visit to the Greater Kruger National Park offers travellers the opportunity to view animals in the state-run national park, and within a wildliferich private concession. Combined with a visit to Chimp Eden and a drive along the fabulous panorama route, travellers are in for a four day treat. Accommodation: Casa do Sol Resort, Makalali Game Lodge.

For those wanting to see more of the Cape than just Cape Town, this comprehensive journey offers some real travel gems. From ostrich farms to coastal resorts and game drives, each day is fascinating. Accommodation: Hilangana Country Lodge, Protea Hotel Knysna, Garden Route Game Lodge, The Arniston Hotel.

32

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Drive yourself – South Africa South Africa has many boutique-style hotels, large coastal resorts and safari game lodges accessible to travellers selfdriving. Popular driving routes include the Garden Route, typically from Cape Town to Knysna or Port Elizabeth. Other options include starting in Durban and driving along the great Drakensburg Mountain escarpments where you can visit former British, Zulu and Boer battle sites. And the Kruger route, which offers travellers fabulous scenic panoramas combined with game viewing.

Self-driving gives you the freedom to visit places away from airports, including popular coastal towns and national parks. Road signs are in English and vehicles travel on the left-hand side of the road. Driving can be a little hazardous at times in rural areas as roads are often without sidewalks and people can be carefree about

crossing roads. A selection of car categories is available and cars can be collected and returned to car rental branches and major airports. Use the map on page 32 to locate destinations and gauge distances, give your budget some consideration then contact us to help plan your self-drive South Africa holiday.

Cape Winelands

Hermanus and Gans Baai

George and Oudtshoorn

The German heritage town of Stellenbosch claims to have the longest wine route in the world. Many wineries have been operated by the same family for many generations and you are likely to be served by a family member. Neighbouring Stellenbosch is the French influenced township of Franschhoek with its Provencial architecture, antique shops and fine French restaurants. These towns combined make this region perfect for wining and dining. We suggest accommodation at Spiers of Stellenbosch or The Franschhoek Country House and Villas.

The stretch of coast near Hermanus is alive with sea life which is easily accessed. The aptly named Shark Alley is famous for shark cage diving and large pods of southern right whales can be viewed from the foreshore or by boat, between July and November. Both options depart from Gans Baai. Hermanus is a great place to take a break when travelling along the Garden Route. We suggest staying overnight at Misty Waves Boutique Hotel or Whale Rock Lodge.

The rural centres of George and Outdtshoorn are home to the breeding farms of the world’s largest bird, the ostrich. Ostrich farms offer fun interactive experiences, you can try riding an ostrich or you can view them through the stages of life, from chick to maturity. Also in this area are the Cango Caves where multi-lingual tours to view the dripstone caverns, with their vast halls and towering formations are available. We suggest staying in Oudtshoorn at De Opstal Country Lodge or Riempie Estate.

Garden Route game lodges

Knysna

Hazyview

Scattered along the Garden Route are several game lodges such as the impressive Kareiga, which offer a variety of accommodation options and includes game drives with professional rangers. As these are private reserves, game is easily found and animals come up close to the vehicle, making it a very personal experience. Also in this area is the Addo Elephant Park, adding a close up elephant experience to you journey. We suggest staying at Kareiga Game Reserve or Shamwari Game Reserve near Port Elizabeth.

This popular beach resort has plenty of water activities, but it also offers more in the surrounding area. Experience a treetop canopy walk through the Tsitsikamma Forest, interact with the relocated elephant families at Elephant Park, or visit the bird or monkey sanctuary. There are also award-winning alfresco markets and hiking and mountain biking options. On the water, enjoy canoeing, jet-skiing or a guided beach exploration under the stars. We suggest staying at Knysna Hollow Country Estate or Belvedere Manor.

Known more as a gateway to Kruger National Park than a township of interest, Hazyview is a great base to explore the park and its surrounds. Drive from Johannesburg or fly into one of the two surrounding airports. Travellers often combine a stay at a private game lodge with the adventure activities and lookouts found nearby. You can enter the state-run section of the Kruger in your hire car, you must stay on designated roads. We suggest staying at Perry’s Bridge Hollow Hotel or Casa do Sol Resort.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

33


The Greater Kruger National Park For most travellers, Kruger National Park needs no introduction as its reputation as a premier game viewing park precedes it.

ZIMBABWE

MOZAMBIQUE A – Nelspruit Airport (KMIA) B – Hoedspruit Airport C –Phalaborwa Airport

C

D – Hazyview Town 13

18

B 12

14

The area is easily accesible with three airports bordering the park. Lodges are anything from 10 minutes to two hours road transfer from the airports.

15 17 16 4 10 11

D

3 9

8 6

SOUTH AFRICA

1 5 2 7

Pretoria and Johannesburg A

SWAZILAND

34

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

Forming part of the Great Frontier Park, Kruger is an immense 20,000 km2. The Park consists of the state-run National Park and several land concessions which allow exclusive access to private game lodges. In the mid 1990s the fences which divided the National Park and the concessions were removed to allow game to roam freely. Consequently, the regions of Manyeleti, Timbavati and Sabi Sands all offer excellent game viewing, with the latter generally offering a greater abundance of animals. Several farms which bordered the Park have also been converted into private game reserves, resulting in a vast range of accommodation options in the region.

1300 550 221

Many five-star lodges also offer daily flights from Johannesburg to nearby airstrips creating flight inclusive packages, allowing guests to land closer to their lodge. Game lodges have all inclusive rates which normally include two game activities daily, all meals and park entry fees. Within the South Afican National Park run sections of the park, vehicles are restricted to marked roads, however vehicles on concessional land are free to follow or track animals off road into the bush, meaning that game viewing by game lodges is often more interesting.


Notten’s Bush Camp Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Kirkmans Camp Sabi Sands Game Reserve

1

SFKUD

$500-$550

Djuma Vuyatela Sabi Sands Game Reserve

2

6

$520-$550

3

SFKUD

$600-$650

SFKUD

Notten’s Bush Camp is a luxury lodge, situated in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Due to the unfenced border the Sabi Sand Game Reserve shares with the Kruger National Park, animals are free to roam the Reserve and sightings are abundant. Notten’s Bush Camp also has a waterhole to attract wildlife during the dry season, making game viewing here a yearround experience. Notten’s Bush Camp is quite unique as it has no electricity. The Camp relies on candles and paraffin lamps for lighting, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere. Facilities are provided for those who need to recharge their camera batteries. Guests can enjoy a massage in the privacy of their suite or in the Nature Spa. As an alternative guests can cool off on warm days in the sparkling pool.

Located on one of the most elevated sites overlooking the Sand River, Kirkman’s Camp has spectacular views of its unspoilt wilderness which supports some of the highest volumes of wildlife in the region. This historic property was originally built in the early 1920’s and the homestead now serves as a social centre with a large lounge/ dining room and parlour decorated in 1920’s style. Meals are either served in the main house, on shady verandas or in the traditional Boma. The property has 18 colonial style air-conditioned cottages each with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas offering magnificent bush views. A stay here will draw you back into a bygone era when game viewing was taken seriously and relaxing between safaris was all about spoiling yourself.

Both extraordinary and wonderful, Vuyatela is a five star game lodge with only eight rooms catering for a maximum of 16 guests. Each of the eight suites at Vuyatela has been built in a uniquely African style. The main buildlings deck flows down to a massive waterhole, popular with local elephants for mud baths and a resident hippo family. Bedrooms are separated from the lounge and there is a private outdoor relaxation area with its own plunge pool offering the chance of wildlife viewing from your own veranda. The king size four-poster bed, spa baths and outdoor showers are romantic with Vuyutela being a popular honeymoon retreat.

Ulusaba Safari Lodge Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Lion Sands River Lodge Sabi Sands Game Reserve

6 Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp Sabi Sands Game Reserve

5

4

SFKUTD

$680-$720

12

The award-winning private game reserve, Ulusaba, within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, is owned by Sir Richard Branson and offers a unique combination of superb game viewing and fabulous leisure facilities. This level of style, comfort and service creates the ultimate safari experience. After an exhilarating day spent game viewing, guests can relax at the Aroma Boma beauty salon, enjoy a game of tennis, take a swim or work-out in the fully-equipped gym. Safari Lodge is built along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed with elevated swing bridges leading to thatched chalets positioned to ensure privacy and offering amazing views. There are two flights daily from Johannesburg into the private airstrip at the lodge.

$700-$750

SFKUTD

7

When you visit Lion Sands you will experience something special. Rangers that can spot even a small chameleon on a tree, staff that anticipate your every need, wildlife that pass by only metres away from your private deck – this is Lion Sands River Lodge. The property is situated close to the Sabi and Sands Rivers in the most prolific wildlife sector of Sabi Sands Reserve. River Lodge has been managed by the More family for four generations. It’s 20 spacious suites and facilities have recently been upgraded to provide rest and relaxation. Whether you’re metres away from a leopard as it hunts, being served dinner with an ever-present smile or having a massage at the spa, every moment here is guaranteed to be unforgettable.

$750-$800

NFKU D

16

Nestled in the shade of riverine trees, Little Bush Camp’s six thatched suites, each with a private deck and spa bath overlooking the bushveld, somehow provides the illusion of being almost alone. This camp is intimate and warm, imparting an African spirit that is evident everywhere. The atmosphere here is social, with guests taking sundowners prior to dinner under lantern lit trees. Sabi Sabi’s Little Bush Camp offers not only luxurious creature comforts, but a host of adventures as well. Tracking Africa’s big game including the ‘Big Five’ in open vehicles by day and at night accompanied by qualified game rangers and Shangaan trackers, make for a truly memorable experience .

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

35


The Greater Kruger National Park

9 Rattrays Private Game Lodge Mala Mala Game Reserve

Londolozi Varty Camp Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge Sabi Sands Game Reserve

8

7

SFKUD

SFKUTD S FKUT D

$850-$900

$900-$1000

Possibly the most famous of all lodges, Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge rightly deserves its reputation as one of the finest. Its 25 suites are decorated in a contemporary African style and are exceptionally spacious. The property has a large pool and a spa to tempt you during your down time. You are assured of viewing plenty of game with Sabi Sabi’s experienced rangers and trackers which are considered to be the best in Kruger. Children staying here join in the fun with the Junior Rangers program at the Ele Fun Centre. There are flight-inclusive packages available, including flights into the nearby airfield, making Sabi Sabi less than two hours travel from Johannesburg.

Owned by Kruger identities the Varty family for over 80 years, Londolozi now hosts four intimate camps offering guests genuine hospitality. Its flagship, Varty Camp, is set amongst some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the region boasting generous game viewing and incomparable leopard sightings. Varty Camp is the symbolic heart and soul of Londolozi, having created a haven for guests who return year after year. Its eight chalets all feature private swimming pools with all living spaces being raised off the ground and shaded under trees. The camp has a pleasingly down-to-earth quality and the emphasis on family heritage means that children of all ages are welcome at Varty Camp.

Mala Mala, owned by the Rattray family for over 50 years, is located close to the Sand River which places it in the best position for game viewing. A maximum of four guests per safari vehicle offers a first class view of the wildlife with its rangers being amongst the best in South Africa. There are eight luxury Khaya’s or “homes” each with its own private heated pool, furnished with kingsized beds and two en-suite bathrooms. Rattray’s is all about history. The social areas, and historic bar, feature photographs and memorabilia of days gone by, with the plush decor and personal service transporting guests back to the classic days of safari.

10 Leopard Hills Sabi Sands Game Reserve

11 Singita Boulders Lodge Sabi Sands Game Reserve

12 Southern Camp Kapama Private Game Reserve

SFKU D

$1200

10

$1700

Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve traverses over 10,000 hectares of Sabi Sand Game Reserve. This famously exclusive lodge is built on a hill overlooking a natural waterhole. Its eight private luxury glass-fronted suites, each with their own deck and heated rock plunge pool offer superb views of the African bushveld and come complete with all the comforts you could desire. The Lodge offers a warm, friendly and fun-filled atmosphere which really seems to make your stay a relaxed one. Enjoy a leopard on the hunt, lions roaring at twilight or hippos wallowing in the river. Whether on a game drive or out walking with your own Ranger these are just a few of the amazing encounters awaiting you at Leopard Hills.

36

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

12

SFKU D

18

For Honeymooners, discerning travellers or those wishing to totally spoil themselves, Singita Boulders is set to inspire you. You will experience rare solitude, unsurpassed luxury and spectacular game viewing at this award winning riverside lodge. Accommodating only 24 guests in 12 suites, this natural stone lodge blends nicely with the surrounding bush. It is at the forefront of contemporary African style where spacious interiors flow into their surroundings by incorporating floor to ceiling glass walls. Each airconditioned suite offers complete exclusivity and privacy with a spacious lounge, fireplace, en-suite bathroom, inside and outside shower, sparkling private pool and glorious game viewing deck.

1300 550 221

$1000

$230-$280

16

SFKAUD

Recently purchased by Kapama Game Reserve and totally renovated, Southern Camp reopened for guests in 2011. Situated in the southern tip of the extensive Kapama Reserve and only 20 minutes from Hoedspruit airport, this lodge caters for both families and couples. Including two game activities daily, and all meals, this camp is great value. The recent rebuild has added a generous social lounge, eating complex and swimming pool to its outdoor entertainment areas. Accommodation is in 10 economically sized, standard rooms with en-suite shower including four family rooms, with lofts, catering for two adults and two children under 12 years and 15 luxury suites with air conditioning, en-suites and mini bar.


13 Makalali Private Game Lodge Makalali Private Game Reserve

15 Ngala Safari Lodge & Tented Camp Ngala Game Reserve

14 Buffalo Camp Kapama Private Game Reserve

SFKAUD

NFKAUD

NFKUD

$250-$300

$300-$350

$450-$500

Makalali is a 26,000 hectare game reserve with a lodge that has a reputation for rangers whose enthusiasm is infectious. Separated into four camps, each with only six thatch roof suites, with outdoor showers, Makalali has a small lodge appeal. Each suite has its own private deck with relaxing day bed and unique decor. It is a social lodge where guests eat together in the traditional boma or enclosed dining area and even the cheeky vervet monkeys are friendly as they watch you cool off in the pool. It appeals to the adventurer in all of us with ‘bush bashing’ to get close to wildlife a common occurrence. Makalali has a lot of character and is great value for those considering their budget.

Recently renovated, Buffalo Camp is a tented camp with real class. Its 10 permanent canvas tents are joined by wooden walkways built up amongst the trees meaning you are literally in the bush. The social areas allow guests to cool off in the pool, or sit up at the bar chatting between game drives in the open sided lounge. The nearby Kapama Main Lodge offers guests the chance to spoil themselves at its extensive spa. Guests feel relaxed at Buffalo Camp, with a maximum of only 20 guests, special attention is paid to personal service. Wildlife at Kapama is monitored by all four camps on the reserve allowing rangers to work together providing you with a good chance of wildlife spotting.

Ngala was the first private game reserve to be incorporated into Kruger National Park and has exclusive traversing rights over 14,700 hectares. Meaning ‘lion’ in Shangaan, Ngala lives up to its name supporting several prides of big cats. Ngala is home to two magnificent lodges. The romance and mystery of Africa comes alive in 20 thatched cottages tucked under a dense canopy of Tamboti trees at Ngala Safari Lodge. A spacious guest area veranda offers you the opportunity to gaze out onto a popular waterhole and view the wildlife that frequent it. Ngala Tented Camp consists of six luxury tented suites with outdoor showers, deep baths, overhead fans, air conditioning and electric blankets to keep out the evening chill.

Honeyguide Tented Safari Camps Manyeleti Game Reserve

Thornybush Game Lodge Thornybush Game Reserve

Kings Camp Timbavati Private Game Reserve

16

NFKUD

$500-$550

7

The 23,000 hectare Manyeleti Game Reserve is home to two very popular tented safari camps Honeyguide Khoka Moya Camp and Honeyguide Mantobeni Camp. Mantobeni Camp is reminiscent of Hemingway’s Africa and set in a Tamboti grove overlooking a water hole. Guests at Mantobeni are surrounded by wildlife books and traditional safari style decor. For adults only it attracts well-travelled guests who return year after year. Khoka Moya with its contemporary styling and bright colours is set along a forested water course. With only 12 permanent tents, it caters for everyone and is a favourite with families. Manyeleti is open to the Kruger National Park and as a result is prolific with wildlife.

17

6

18

SFKUTD

SFKUD

$600-$650

$700-$750

Thornybush Game reserve is situated adjacent to the Kruger National Park on 11,500 hectares of pristine African bushveld offering a huge diversity of mammal and bird species. Overlooking the Monwana River you will find Thornybush Game Lodge which has excellent facilities for all the family. Featuring a generous pool, library, boma and the exclusive spa at Thornybush this is the perfect lodge for the traveller who enjoys their comforts. There are 18 luxury air-conditioned suites all with private decks overlooking the savannah and waterhole, outdoor showers, mini bar fridges and telephones. In addition two family suites feature private plunge pools and additional sleeping options for children.

Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the greater Kruger National Park, Kings Camp offers extensive game viewing activities. The camp itself reflects the charm and romance of a colonial past in a pristine corner of unspoilt Africa. Each room is situated facing an open savannah plain with a waterhole which is frequented by a wide variety of wildlife day and night. There are 11 generously spaced thatched colonial suites equipped with mosquito nets, Victorian claw foot baths, indoor and outdoor showers and private verandas. There is even a hammock which all combines to make Kings Camp the ultimate in luxury accommodation and an icon of the Timbavati.

1300 550 221

10

thisisafrica.com.au

37


Rail Journeys The opulent days of rail travel have been recaptured in Africa by some of the finest train companies in the world. The Blue Train, Rovos Rail and the Shongololo Express evoke the romance and ambience of a bygone era, when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion. The blue train

An icon of South African travel, the Blue Train operates a 27 hour, 1,600 kilometre route between Cape Town and Pretoria. Its five-star service and luxurious decor are legendary. Guests are accommodated in spacious suites designed to combine all the modern facilities of a leading hotel with the character and opulence of colonial rail travel. Sleeping carriages are interspersed with wood-panelled lounge and club cars where guests relax as spectacular scenery fills the large viewing windows. When night falls, the train transforms into a fine dining restaurant. Guests dress for a dinner of perfectly prepared delicacies, accompanied by South Africa’s finest wines. This fully inclusive rail journey deserves its iconic status, and is one that all travellers should experience during their visit to South Africa.

The journey’s

The southbound trip from Pretoria to Cape Town departs on Mondays and includes an excursion to Kimberley, once the home of the world largest diamond rush. The northbound journey from Cape Town to Pretoria departments Wednesdays and stops at the colonial town of Matjiesfontein for a stroll amongst the town’s original and restored Victorian buildings.

The Suites

Each suite has a bath or shower, television, telephone and air-conditioning. Deluxe suites offer either twin beds with a shower or a double bed with a three-quarter size bath. Luxury suites offer twin beds or a double bed with full size bath and hand shower, plus a DVD player.

The shongololo

The Shongololo takes you on a rail journey of discovery, with the unique advantage of not having to pack up and move every few days. The train acts as your transport, accommodation, restaurant and safari vehicle. Each night as you sleep the train travels to your next destination. Each morning you awake to a new outlook and new adventure. The train carries a fleet of air-conditioned expedition vehicles which are driven by professional guides who escort you on your included excursions, from safari game drives to city walks.

The Dune Express Johannesburg to Windhoek SEJW12 12 days $280-$350

The Good Hope Adventure Johannesburg to Cape Town SEJC16 16 days

D KFA 7

$280-$350

D KFA 7

The Southern Cross Johannesburg to Victoria Falls SEJV16 16 days

D KFA

$400-$500

7

Departs: July, August

Departs: March to October

Departs: March to October

Highlights include: Kimberley, Fish River Canyon, ghost town of Kolmanskop, Cape Cross seal colony, Walvis Bay, Windhoek, giant dunes of Sossusvlei (option), Swakopmund and Etosha National Park.

Highlights include: Cape Town, Cape Point, the Cape Winelands, Hermanus, Kimberley, Drakensberg (hiking and battlefields), Durban, Zululand, Swaziland, Lesotho (option) and Kruger National Park.

Highlights include: Soweto, Kingdom of Swaziland, Kruger National Park, Maputo (capital of Mozambique), Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Gweru National Park, Hwange National Park, Chobe National Park, Livingstone and Victoria Falls.

38

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Rovos rail

Get ready to step back in time when you travel with Rovos Rail. Over the past 27 years, the Vos family has lovingly restored and recreated a series of classic wood-panelled rail carriages and observation cars, creating three Edwardian style trains. Each train carries a maximum of 72 passengers in fivestar luxury, with each suite assigned a dedicated butler. Days on board offer ample time to gaze at the passing scenery, go on fascinating excursions with professional guides, and socialise with fellow travellers. Evenings are an elegant affair with dinner prepared by on board chefs and accompanied by first class wines, followed by drinks in the club car. Rovos Rail was purposely created to re-live the days when rail was king and Africa its queen. We recommend you add a journey to your ‘must do’ list.

Cape Town journey Pretoria to Cape Town RRPC2 2 days $900-$1600

KRD

2

$700-$1400

All are air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms and original fittings. The Royal Suites are half a carriage in length and include a lounge area and en-suite with Victorian bath. The Deluxe Suites offer a lounge and shower. The Pullman Suites are slightly smaller with twin bunks or a double bed and shower.

Durban journey Pretoria to Durban RRPD3 3 days

Victoria Falls journey Pretoria to Victoria Falls RRPV3 3 days

KRD

The Suites

KFRD

2

$600-$900

2

Departs: Year round

Departs: Year round

Departs: Year round

Highlights include: This journey meanders through the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo and onto the scenic winelands of the Cape. It includes a visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein and a stop in Kimberley to enjoy a city tour and visit to the Diamond Mine Museum.

Highlights include: Enjoy diverse scenery as the train weaves westwards, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn in Botswana. As you travel through Zimbabwe you will have the opportunity to view game in Hwange Game Reserve whilst aboard the train, before arriving into historic Victora Falls train station. This is a real rail enthusiasts journey, with much of the trip spent on the train.

Highlights include: This three day journey through KwaZulu-Natal, provides an opportunity to see the ‘Big Five’ or a battlefields tour with a well-respected historian. Experience the Nambiti Conservancy with its expansive game farm, Spionkop Lodge, and either the battlefields of the region or Ardmore Ceramics where you will learn about Zulu culture and its significance in the region.

Namibia Safari Pretroria to Swakopmund RRPS9 9 days

Dar es Salaam Journey Cape Town to Dar es Salaam RRCD14 14 days

Cape to Cairo Cape Town to Cairo RRCC28 28 days

KFRD

$650-$1000

2

$750-$1250

KFRD

2

$750-$1250

KFD R 2

Departs: April, May

Departs: Mar, Jul, Oct

Departs: Jan, Feb 2014

Highlights include: From the savannahs of the highveld to the Atlantic Ocean, this train journey traverses the stark vistas of the arid Northern Cape and Kalahari Desert. Excursions are offered to Fish River Canyon, Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, the giant dunes of Sossusvlei, Mokuti Game Lodge in Etosha National Park and the coastal town of Swakopmund.

Highlights include: This epic journey travels through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. Some of the highlights include the historic village of Matjiesfontein, the diamond town of Kimberley, a two-night stay at the Madikwe Game Reserve, bushwalking at Chisimba Falls and wildlife spotting in the Rift Valley.

Highlights include: Once the classic route of explorers, this journey includes a rail journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, a safari in Tanzania, a visit to Egypt’s most ancient sights and a journey following the Nile to Khartoum. Add Zanzibar and the source of the Nile and you have the ultimate African experience.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

39


drive yourself – Namibia Combine the red soil and sparse population of the Australian outback, with African wildlife, a wild coastline and the cultures of remote communities and you have Namibia. One of southern Africa’s newest nations and a former German colony, Namibia offers travellers a variety of experiences. Try sand boarding on a 200 metre high sand dune, sky diving at the coastal town of Swakopmund, or game viewing in Etosha National Park. You could also spend some time in the remote northern villages of the Himba and Ovambo people. Self driving in Namibia is safe, with the main consideration when planning your trip being the large distances. We are able to assist you by arranging accommodation and car hire to suit your requirements. Touring is also popular and you will find a selection of great itineraries in our scheduled departures section. If you are a lover of the great outdoors, Namibia should not be missed.

Fish River Canyon

The Skeleton Coast and Cape Cross

A day’s drive from Cape Town is the world’s second largest canyon. One of the most impressive natural beauties in the southern part of Namibia, Fish River may not be as colourful or well-known as the Grand Canyon, but the lack of tourists make it worth a visit. You can sit on the edge of escarpments, virtually by yourself. It is also a popular hiking destination, however hikes require a good level of fitness and can only be undertaken during the cooler winter months.

Namibia’s famous coastline is one of the most desolate in the world. The scattered, rusted remnants of shipwrecks, both ancient and modern, can be seen on the beaches. On the land, red sand, salt pan and arid mountains stretch inland for hundreds of kilometers. The central highway of Namibia runs in between, providing access to the dramatic beauty of the coast. The nearby fur seal colony, located at Cape Cross, is a sight and smell long remembered.

Swakopmund

Etosha National Park

Damaraland

This coastal town has plenty to attract travellers. Swakopmund has long been the social hub of Namibia, but in recent times has redefined itself as an adventure centre. Adventure activities focus on the sand dunes, which include quad biking, sandboarding and dune carting; the ocean, such as shark fishing and deep sea fishing; and views from above, like skydiving, parachuting and hot-air ballooning. Combined with the architecture and ambience of a small German village, with bars and restaurants, there is something for everyone.

In the vast arid space of northern Namibia lies one of southern Africa’s best loved wildlife sanctuaries. Etosha National Park offers excellent game viewing in one of the most accessible locations. Zebra and springbok are scattered across the endless horizon, while the many waterholes attract endangered black rhinoceros, lion and elephant. The unsealed roads are accessible in most areas by two wheel drive cars. Campsites and lodges have good facilities and the park offers travellers the chance to view animals closely.

If you would like to get off the beaten track, you can visit the tribal lands of the Himba and Tjimba which are accessible only by 4WD. Known for their brown mud body painting, the Himba people live in traditional villages and are open to accepting visitors to their community. The people of this region, loosely known as Kaokovelders invite visitors to their villages and craft centres. A local guide will translate and facilitate cultural learning and understanding.

40

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

Namib Naukluft National Park and Sossusvlei Located in the Namib Naukluft National Park, the largest conservation area in Africa, is Namibia’s most popular sight. Sossusvlei, a corridor of red sand dunes, ranges from 100-300 metres high. Travellers visiting this special sight will be delighted by the spectacular affect that sunrise and sunset has on these enormous dunes. The colours are strong and constantly changing, providing wonderful photographic opportunities for budding photographers.


ISLAND STOPOVERS With Air Mauritius, Air Australia and South African Airlines all offering flights from Australia to the Indian Ocean islands, a relaxing holiday stop-over to complement your African holiday is an opportunity too good to miss. There are literally hundreds of hotels and resorts to choose from in this region. Below are a few stand-out properties of resort style accommodation we recommend. Visit our website for a wider range, or contact us to discuss your island stopover.

Le Canonnier Mauritius

UTKD

Le Victoria Hotel Mauritius

Trou aux Biches Mauritius

UTKD

UTKD

$200 - $250

$225-$250

$400-$450

Enjoy magnificent sunsets and sweeping views of the northern islets from one of the most popular four-star resorts in Mauritius. Le Canonnier is an exceptional value, family friendly resort located on the sheltered north-west coast. Accommodation is typical Mauritian style featuring air-conditioning, mini bar, private balcony and room service. Hotel facilities include two restaurants, two swimming pools and evening entertainment. Kids are entertained with the free Bob Marlin mini club activities while parents can relax at the wellness centre built amidst the sturdy branches of an ancient banyan tree. For the active you may prefer to utilise the included water sports and activities.

Le Victoria is a four star resort located on the west coast of Mauritius. It is conveniently situated between the tourist hub of Grand-Baie and Port Louis, the capital city. Facing the splendid sunsets, Le Victoria is one of the most popular resorts on the island offering exceptional value for money. The rooms are some of the largest on the island, modern designed and located in a tropical garden overlooking a reef-protected lagoon. The resort features three international cuisine restaurants, a huge pool and a fantastic kids club. The beach and pool is the venue for both relaxation and activities with plenty of free land and water sports, including water-skiing, kayaks, snorkelling trips, glass bottom boat trips and a modern gymnasium.

This spectacular resort is set along a 2km stretch of pure white sand beach, a turquoise lagoon with crystal-clear waters and within an amazing tropical garden. Accommodation ranges from Junior and Tropical suites set around pools right through to Beachfront Suites with their own pools and luxury pool villas. All rooms have air-conditioning, balconies and the latest in technology, with Wi-Fi internet and IP phones. Six restaurants serving international cuisine are located along the beachfront or around the magnificent pool. The resort also features a Spa by Clarins. Trou aux Biches is the perfect romantic getaway for couples and families to enjoy a huge selection of included water sports and activities.

Royal Palm Mauritius

Sainte Anne Resort & Spa Seychelles

Lux Ile de la Reunion reunion

UTKD

UTKD

UTKD

$550-$600

$550-$600

$250-$280

The Royal Palm resort, a member of the leading hotels of the world, is the most exclusive resort in Mauritius. This is a honeymooners’ dream location, situated northwest of the island on the exclusive white sand beach of Grand Sable. You do not walk into a hotel but a cosy mansion where you immediately feel at home. The Royal Palm boasts 84 suites with an exquisite decoration and many personal touches. Each has its own elegant, refined style. Additional facilities include an ultra-modern sport and fitness centre, a Spa by Clarins, three a la carte restaurants and two swimming pools. This resort can even offer transfers from the airport in a Rolls Royce Phantom or helicopter.

An island nation of legendary beauty, the Seychelles is made up of over 100 islands. We are able to facilitate your visit to any resort, but featured here is one of the most popular for honeymooners. One of the finest islands is Sainte Anne, home to a protected marine park and the Sainte Anne Resort & Spa. This five-star all-inclusive resort is a private island hideaway with 87 sea-facing villas including 28 luxury pool villas. Your stay includes a range of complimentary non-motorised water sports such as glass-bottom boat trip, snorkelling, kayaking, pedal boats and aqua-gym. For pure indulgence, there is a Spa by Clarins and choice of four fine dining restaurants.

Located in l’Hermitage with direct access to the beach, the Lux Ile de la Reunion resort is one of the most popular in Reunion. It offers 23 welldesigned and spacious villas sprawling across seven hectares by the lagoon. Plus 174 rooms (including eight suites) which are decorated in traditional Creole style and have views of the lagoon and swimming pool. L’Hermitage is ideal for active and relaxing pursuits. There is a fitness club, tennis court and mountain biking, along with a host of water activities. It also has a hairdresser and a beauty salon offering spa treatments. And, of course, there is the beach, with tranquil waters right on your doorstep.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

41


overland tours

Scheduled departures

camping & Accommodated Scheduled departures – Overland Expeditions

The most economical way to spend more than a few days in Africa is to join one of our group tours which depart regularly. Joining an overland tour with a scheduled departure is a great way to meet new people and it saves you money as the tour operator can spread the cost of running the tour over a group of people.

Why choose this style of travel?

Overland tours are about spending your days experiencing the sights and delights of Africa, and your evenings relaxing around the campfire with fellow travellers. Travelling with a group means you can share your African experience with others and it gives you the opportunity to share the cost of extra activities which you may not have been able to afford on your own. This style of travel is ideal for travellers who want to cover greater distances over longer periods of time with a limited budget. If you are a solo traveller this style of trip allows you to stretch your budget further by sharing a room or tent and a vehicle. In fact, many of our overland tours do not have single supplement charges for solo travellers.

Overland expeditions and small group accommodated trips

On the following pages you will find a selection of our favourite overland expeditions. You can choose to travel on an expedition vehicle and camp, or travel in small group tours which include comfortable, yet basic accommodation. The tour operators we use are all African based, which means the majority of the money you pay for your trip supports Africans through employment and the purchase of goods. In addition, being based in Africa, you can feel confident that when necessary your tour guide will make informed decisions in countries where conditions can change quickly.

Small group accommodated trips

If erecting a tent is not your idea of a holiday, but travelling in Africa really appeals to you, then small group accommodated trips are the perfect style of safari for you. You will be able to enjoy the outdoors experience that small group touring in Africa offers, but with the added comfort of a permanent structure to spend your nights in. These trips use guesthouses and rustic cabins or pre-erected tents. Accommodation is usually situated in campsites or in small towns near sights or social hubs. In most cases you will have an en-suite but at times you will need to share communal facilities. Meals are included and you will be asked to participate with food preparation, although your guides will do the majority of the cooking. With a professional guide to lead your safari and a comfortable bed to sleep in, you can be assured of a great African experience.

42

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Camping tours enable you to experience Africa at a grass roots level. There is no typical day on tour in Africa as everyday offers something new and exciting. Overland Tours – Camping

These tours enable you to experience Africa at a grass roots level. This is certainly the most affordable way to see Africa with some tours costing as little as $75.00 per day. There is no typical day on tour in Africa as everyday offers something new and exciting. Camping sets you amongst Africa’s greatest treasures - it’s land and it’s people. Over 80% of the continent’s population live in rural areas. By camping you involve yourself in their daily lives. Whether you are shopping for food at a street side market or taking a walk through the fields to buy water in the local village, you will bemeeting local people. We have chosen a few experiences you will encounter on an overland camping tour to give you an insight into this style of travel.

Camping in the wilds of Africa is amazing. It is an awesome experience to lie in your tent at night listening to the roar of lions or the lonely cry of a jackal.

If overlanding expeditions, either camping or accommodated, sound right for you but you are having trouble finding the perfect itinerary, then please refer to our website for more options.

Each day gives you the chance to make new friend. Meals are included and passengers can participate in helping the guide or cook to shop for food in the markets. Everyday on the road offers a different view.

Overland itineraries are planned to give you time to relax after you have had a long day on the road.

And then of course there is the wildlife which is never far away.

And there’s plenty of adventure!

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

43


overland tours

Chobe Mobile Safari 2 days Masai Mara Safari 3 days The Kruger Big 5 4 days Discover Kenya 5 days Tanzanian Safari 5 days Swaziland and Kruger 7 days Namibia South 7 days Cape, Falls & Kalahari Express 7 days Okavango & Chobe Trail 8 days Chobe and the Okavango Delta 8 days Treasures of Tanzania 9 days Cultural Ethiopia 10 days Historical Ethiopia 10 days Best of Botswana 10 days Tanzanian Game Parks and Zanzibar 10 days Best of East Africa 10 days Southern Adventure 11 days Garden Route Explorer 11 days Northern Adventure 11 days Magical Madagascar 13 days Walking South Africa 13 days Mozambique & Kruger - Beach and Bush 14 days Botswana Wild Parks 14 days Namibia & Botswana Adventure 14 days Kruger, Drakensberg & Garden Route Explorer 14 days Bush, Beach & Falls Safari 14 days Gorillas and Game Parks 14 days Best of East Africa & Zanzibar 15 days East African Discoverer 15 days South Africa Rainbow Route 17 days Namibia & Botswana Southern Circle 21 days Cape to Victoria falls Grand Explorer 21 days East African Adventure 21 days Southern Sun 21 days Rainbow Nation 21 days Southern Discoverer 21 days Southern Escape 22 days Gorillas, Game Parks and Zanzibar 24 days Discover Southern Africa 25 days Express to the Falls 26 days African Dream 26 days East South Safari 26 days Johannesburg to Nairobi 29 days Beach, Sun & Wildlife 29 days Journey to the Cape 32 days Northern Safari 32 days Southern Safari 32 days Southern Africa Circuit 35 days South Africa & Beyond 35 days Gorillas & Southern Discoverer 35 days South East Explorer 35 days African Encounter 36 days Cape Town to Nairobi 42 days Southern Explorer 42 days Northern Trek 46 days Southern Trek 46 days Beach , Bush and Gorilla Safari 49 days Great African Trek 56 days African Trek 64 days Grand Africa 73 days

44

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

Tour Code VV2 Tour Code NN3 Tour Code NAJJ Tour Code NMN Tour Code NTN5 Tour Code NADJ Tour Code CS7 Tour Code CJ7 Tour Code NAJV Tour Code VM8 Tour Code NTS Tour Code NETHS Tour Code NETHN Tour Code VV10 Tour Code ND10 Tour Code NKTN10 Tour Code VJ11 Tour Code CC11 Tour Code JV11 Tour Code NMAD Tour Code JJa13 Tour Code MOa14 Tour Code Bta14 Tour Code VS14 Tour Code JC14 Tour Code JV14 Tour Code NN14 Tour Code ND15 Tour Code VZ15 Tour Code SAa17 Tour Code NBa21 Tour Code CVa21 Tour Code NAVN Tour Code CV21 Tour Code JJ21 Tour Code NV21 Tour Code JJ22 Tour Code ND24 Tour Code JJ25 Tour Code NV26 Tour Code JZ26 Tour Code ZJ26 Tour Code NAJN Tour Code JZ29 Tour Code JC32 Tour Code JN32 Tour Code NJ32 Tour Code JC35 Tour Code JV35 Tour Code NV35 Tour Code NJ35 Tour Code CZ36 Tour Code NACN Tour Code NC42 Tour Code JN46 Tour Code NJ46 Tour Code NJ49 Tour Code NC56 Tour Code FAT Tour Code FGA

Victoria falls to Victoria Falls Nairobi to Nairobi Johannesburg to Johannesburg Nairobi to Nairobi Nairobi to Nairobi Johannesburg to Durban Cape Town to Swakopmund Cape Town to Johannesburg Johannesburg to Victoria Falls Victoria Falls to Maun Nairobi to Arusha Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa Victoria Falls to Victoria Falls Nairobi to Dar es Salaam Nairobi to Nairobi Victoria Falls to Johannesburg Cape Town to Cape Town Johannesburg to Victoria Falls Antananarivo to Antananarivo Johannesburg to Johannesburg Johannesburg to Johannesburg Johannesburg to Livingstone Victoria Falls to Swakopmund Johannesburg to Cape Town Johannesburg to Victoria Falls Nairobi to Nairobi Nairobi to Dar es Salaam Victoria falls to Dar es Salaam Johannesburg to Cape Town Livingstone to Livingstone Cape Town to Livingstone Victoria falls to Nairobi Cape Town to Victoria Falls Johannesburg to Johannesburg Nairobi to Victoria Falls Johannesburg to Johannesburg Nairobi to Dar es Salaam Johannesburg to Johannesburg Nairobi to Victoria falls Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam Dar es Salaam to Johannesburg Johannesburg to Nairobi Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam Johannesburg to Cape Town Johannesburg to Nairobi Nairobi to Johannesburg Johannesburg to Cape Town Johannesburg to Victoria Falls Nairobi to Victoria Falls Nairobi to Johannesburg Cape Town to Dar es Salaam Cape Town to Nairobi Nairobi to Cape Town Johannesburg to Nairobi Nairobi to Johannesburg Nairobi to Johannesburg Nairobi to Cape Town Nairobi to Johannesburg Nairobi to Livingstone

Page 50 Page 56 Page 45 Page 56 Page 56 Page 45 Page 51 Page 53 Page 45 Page 50 Page 58 Page 49 Page 49 Page 50 Page 57 Page 58 Page 52 Page 55 Page 52 Page 49 Page 46 Page 46 Page 47 Page 51 Page 53 Page 54 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 47 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 51 Page 53 Page 59 Page 52 Page 57 Page 54 Page 59 Page 61 Page 62 Page 48 Page 63 Page 55 Page 61 Page 62 Page 54 Page 55 Page 60 Page 63 Page 60 Page 48 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 64 Page 64


THE KRUGER BIG FIVE

NAJJ 4 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA

MXKL

$200-$225

JD

min 4 max 18

8

Tour departs EVERY MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS

ITINERARY: Day 1 Kwa Madwala Reserve Days 2-3 Kruger National Park Day 4 Blyde River Canyon, Johannesburg

Victoria Falls Kasane Okavango Delta

ZIMBABWE

Gweta Maun Palaplye

BOTSWANA

Johannesburg

Blyde River Canyon Kruger NP Kwa Madwali Hlane NP SWAZILAND Mlilwane NR iSimangaliso

SOUTH AFRICA

Durban

For those on a budget wishing to visit South Africa’s most famous National Park, Kruger, this four day trip is perfect. As well as game drives within Kruger, you will spot wildlife in Kwa Madwala Reserve, visit a local village and drive the spectacular Panorama Route famed for its views over the northern tip of the Drakensberg Mountains. Highlights—A variety of game drives both on road in the Kruger National park and off road in Kwa Madwala Reserve. View the fascinating natural formations of Gods Window, the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon. Learn about the culture and dance of the Shangaan people when you visit a cultural village. Experience a night game drive with a national park ranger. Shop for curios at the village of Graskop.

SWAZILAND & KRUGER

OKAVANGO & CHOBE TRAIL

NADJ 7 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO DURBAN

NAJV 8 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS

SWAZILAND-SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE

MWKL

$200-$225

RJD

min 4 max 18

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

8

ITINERARY: Day 1 iSimangaliso Wetland Park Days 2-3 Hluhluwe, Imfolozi Game Reserve, Swaziland, Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary Days 4-5 Kruger National Park Day 6 Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre Day 7 Johannesburg

Africa is about its people, wildlife and dramatic landscapes and this seven day tour offers travellers the chance to experience all of these at their best. Highlights—Meet the friendly people of the Kingdom of Swaziland. Do a game walk in the Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Try spotting the ‘Big Five’ in Kruger National Park. Join a sunset cruise on the vast wetlands of iSimangaliso. Go for a leisurely hike through the Drakensberg Mountains. Game drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, home to the largest population of rhino in the world. Travel along the Panorama Route stopping for breathtaking views across the bushveld.

MWKL

$250-$275

RJED

min 4 max 18

Tour departs SELECTED TUESDAYS

8

ITINERARY: Day 1 Palapye Day 2 Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Maun Days 3-4 Okavango Delta Day 5 Gweta Day 6 Chobe National Park Days 7-8 Victoria Falls

This trip offers those on a budget the chance to stay deep in the Okavango Delta by flying into one of its remote islands rather than simply skirting the delta edges. It is quite unique, and certainly a good option for those wishing to see the Delta on a budget without having to put up a tent. Highlights— The Delta, up close in dug-out canoes (mokoros) and from above as you fly into your camp. Watch the herds of elephants on a river safari in Chobe National Park. Marvel at the huge baobab trees near the Makgadikgadi Pans. View in awe the majestic sight of Victoria Falls. Try white water rafting, walking with lions and elephant back safaris. End your tour with a cruise on the Zambezi River.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

45


overland tours WALKING SOUTH AFRICA

JJA13 13 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA

MXKL

$150-$175

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Caprivi Etosha NP

Ugab Swakopmund

Namib Desert

Okavango Delta

Livingstone

ZIMBABWE MOZAMBIQUE

Central Kalahari

Makgadikadi Pans

BOTSWANA Pilgrim’s Rest NAMIBIA

Kruger NP

Malolotja Inhambane

Bilene SWAZILAND Kosi Bay St. Lucia / Hluhluwe NP

Johannesburg

Mkuzi Zululand Drakensberg Mountains

SOUTH AFRICA

This small-group safari through South Africa and Swaziland is focussed on walking. Highlights—Day treks explore areas as diverse as Blyde River canyon, the seldom-explored Malalotja Nature Reserve, Unesco world heritage-listed Lake St Lucia and the Drakensberg mountains. As well as nature, this tour explores culture and wildlife. Visit traditional Swazi craft and medicine markets and a Zulu village to meet local people and learn about their culture. In the Kruger National Park, go leopard, lion and elephant spotting, whilst the Hluhluwe game reserve focuses on rhino conservation. The tour also explores the Dundee battlefields. Accommodation ranges from chalets, cabins, huts and lodges along the way. This is a diverse tour that will appeal to the more adventurous traveller.

MOZAMBIQUE & KRUGER— BEACH & BUSH MOA14 14 DAYS

NAMIBIA & BOTSWANA SOUTHERN CIRCLE NBA21 21 DAYS

JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG

MWKL

JD

min 4 max 12

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

LIVINGSTONE TO LIVINGSTONE

NAMIBIA-BOTSWANA-ZAMBIA

SOUTH AFRICA-SWAZILAND-MOZAMBIQUE $150-$175

12

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Panorama route Days 3-4 Kruger National Park Days 5-6 Swaziland Days 7-9 St Lucia wetlands Day 10 Boer war battlefields Days 11-12 Drakensberg Mountains Day 13 Johannesburg

Victoria Falls

Chobe

JD

min 4 max 12

12

MWKL

$175-$200

JD

min 4 max 12

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

12

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Johannesburg, Zululand, Mkuzi Game Reserve Days 3-5 Kosi Bay National Reserve Days 6-8 Hlane Game Reserve Day 7 Maputo Days 8-10 Inhambane, Praia de Barra Day 11 Uembje Lagoon, Bilene Days 12-14 Kruger National Park, Johannesburg

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Livingstone, Victoria Falls Days 3-4 Caprivi Strip Day 5 Kavango River, Rundu Days 6-8 Etosha National Park, Twyfelfontein Days 9-14 Brandberg, Swakopmund, Namib Desert, Windhoek Days 15-19 Kalahari Desert, Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Pans Days 20-21 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

This trip takes you to the tropical paradise of Mozambique, and includes bush walking in Swaziland and game viewing in Kruger National Park. Highlights—Spend time with the Zulu people in their fishing village at Kosi Bay. Spot endangered black rhino at Mkuzi Game Reserve. Join a walking tour of Portuguese influenced Maputo, capital of Mozambique. Enjoy snorkeling, diving and swimming in the warm blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Explore the Arab-influenced town of Inhambane in Mozambique, rich in the history of slave, ivory, gold and spice trading. Sample the coral sand beaches of the Mozambique coast. Encounter herds of animals in close proximity in Kruger National Park.

Favoured by many travellers for its smart, circular itinerary which minimises long drives, this trip starts and finishes in Victoria Falls and ventures off the beaten track into Botswana’s Kalahari Desert. Highlights—Enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets at the sand dunes of Sossusvlei. Marvel at the star-filled skies over the Makgadikgadi salt pans. Spend time with the bushmen of the Kalahari. Head deep into the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta in our purposely built 4WD. Visit the friendly villages of Rundu and Namibia’s Caprivi strip. Watch the 200,000 strong seal colony at Cape Cross. Choose from a variety of scenic and adventure options at Victoria Falls.

46

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


BOTSWANA WILD PARKS

BtA14 14 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO LIVINGSTONE SOUTH AFRICA-BOTSWANA-ZAMBIA

MWKL

$230-$250

JD

min 4 max 12

12

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS Moremi Chobe NP

Victoria Falls

Etosha NP Damaraland Swakopmund

Livingstone

Okavango Delta NAMIBIA Maun

Kalahari Khama

Windhoek Namib Desert

Nata

Mpumalanga

BOTSWANA

Cederberg

SWAZILAND Malolotja Mkuzi Zululand

Johannesburg

Orange/Gariep River

ZIMBABWE

Makgadikadi Pans

Drakensberg

SOUTH AFRICA Wild Coast

Cape Town

Hermanus

Tsitsikamma NP

ITINERARY: Day 1 Johannesburg, Khama Rhino Sanctuary Day 2 Maun Days 3-4 Okavango Delta Days 5-8 Moremi Game Reserve Day 9 Makgadikgadi Pans Days 10-11 Chobe National Park Days 12-14 Victoria Falls, Livingstone

Travelling in our safari truck and purposely built 4WD safari vehicles, this trip takes you to the wilds of Botswana and some of the few African wilderness areas left largely untouched. Highlights—Relax in a dugout canoe (Mokoro) while being poled along the waterways of the Delta, viewing wildlife along the way. View game by 4WD in Moremi, once the hunting ground of the Batswana tribe and now a national reserve. Take a scenic flight to your remote island in the delta where you will stay for 2 nights in a permanent tented safari camp. Drive across the vast salt pans of the Makgadikgadi and feel them crunch beneath you. Get within metres of elephant herds in Chobe National Park as you cruise along the river.

SOUTH AFRICA RAINBOW ROUTE

CAPE TO VICTORIA FALLS GRAND EXPLORER CVA21 21 DAYS

SAA17 17 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA-SWAZILAND

SOUTH AFRICA-NAMIBIA-BOTSWANA-ZAMBIA

MWKL

$150-$175

CAPE TOWN TO LIVINGSTONE

JD

min 4 max 12

Tour departs SELECTED SATURDAYS

12

MWKL

$175-$200

JD

min 4 max 12

12

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Mpumalanga, Kruger National Park Days 4-6 Swaziland, Malolotja National park, Zululand Days 7-8 Drakensberg Mountains Days 9-10 Wild Coast Day 11 Addo Elephant National Park Days 12-14 Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park, Hermanus Days 15-17 Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Table Mountain

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Cape Town, Cederberg, Gariep River, Fish River Canyon Days 5-10 Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Damaraland Days 11-13 Etosha National Park, Windhoek Days 14-17 Kalahari, two nights tented camp in the Okavango Delta Day 18 Makgadikgadi Pans Days 19-21 Victoria Falls, Livingstone

This 17 day tour follows a classic route through South Africa but offers more than usual by combining the iconic sights with hidden gems. Highlights—Get to know more about the endangered black rhino at the Mkuzi Game Reserve. View the glorious scenery of the Drakensburg Mountains as we wind our way through more than 200km of mountain passes and countryside. Meet the Zulu witchdoctor at the markets of Mbabane. Relax in the coastal town of Knysna and stroll along the coastline of Hermanus, famous for whale watching. Finish your tour in the vibrant city of Cape Town where you can ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain.

This three week journey travels through the lands of many cultures and across many varied landscapes. From sand dunes to the sea and the Himba people to the many migrants of the Western Cape, this rich overland trip really is a journey to the Cape. Highights—Visit the villages of the Himba and Ovambo people in the far northern deserts of Namibia. Sit on the edge of the world’s second largest canyon at Fish River. Watch wildlife as it wanders towards a waterhole in Etosha National Park. Step up to an adventure challenge in Swakopmund and marvel at the variety of flora and fauna found in the Okavango Delta.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

47


overland tours EAST AFRICAN ADVENTURE NAVN 21 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO NAIROBI

Nairobi KENYA

Lake Victoria Serengeti NP

ZIMBABWE-ZAMBIA-MALAWI-TANZANIA-KENYA

Ngorongoro Crater Lake Tanganyika

TANZANIA Iringa

Victoria Falls

Kasane Kamanjab Himba Tribes Spitzkoppe Swakopmund Namib Naukluft NP

Windhoek

Fish River Canyon NP Orange/Gariep River

Chobe NP

Maun Ghanzi

Gweta

RJD

min 4 max 18

8

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Lusaka, Chipata Days 3-5 South Luangwa National Park, Lilongwe Days 6-8 Kande Beach, Lake Malawi, Zanzibar Days 9-10 Iringa, Mikumi National Park Days 11-14 Dar es Salaam, Stone Town Days 15-19 Usambara Mountains, Karatu, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Days 20-21 Arusha, Nairobi

Monkey Bay

MALAWI

Livingstone

Etosha NP

NAMIBIA

Chipata

MWKL

$175-$200

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

Northern & Central Lake South Luangwa NP Malawi

ZAMBIA Lusaka

Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

ZIMBABWE

This three week journey from Victoria Falls to Nairobi includes basic cabin style accommodation which is more comfortable than camping, but not as costly as luxury accommodation. Highlights—Stay on the river bank in Luangwa National Park and enjoy great game viewing but with fewer tourists. Go horse riding, fishing or simply walk amongst the African villages at Kande Beach in Malawi. Experience the hospitality of the Masai people in Tanzania when we visit a traditional Masai Village. Camp on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater and marvel at the view before descending into its caldera the following morning for some of the best game viewing in Africa. Spot wildlife sheltering from the sun under the Acacia trees in the Serengeti National Park.

Palapyle

BOTSWANA Johannesburg

SOUTH AFRICA Cederberg

Cape Town

JOHANNESBURG TO NAIROBI

CAPE TOWN TO NAIROBI

SOUTH AFRICA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE-ZAMBIA-MALAWI-TANZANIA-KENYA

SOUTH AFRICA-NAMIBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE-ZAMBIA-MALAWITANZANIA-KENYA

NAJN 29 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO NAIROBI

MWKL

$175-$200

RJD

min 4 max 18

NACN 42 DAYS CAPE TOWN TO NAIROBI

8

Tour departs SELECTED TUESDAYS AND SATURDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Maun, Okavango Delta Days 5-8 Gweta, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Days 9-13 Lusaka, Chipara, South Luangwa National Park, Lilongwe Days 14 -16 Kande Beach, Chitimba Beach, Manchawe Falls Days 17-19 Great Rift Valley, Mikumi National Park, Dar es Salaam Days 20-22 Zanzibar Days 23-27 Usambara Mountains, Karatu, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater Days 28-29 Arusha, Nairobi

Staying in cabins, tented camps and basic hotels this trip offers a middle ground between camping and private lodges. See Africa at a grassroots level from an overland vehicle, but without having to erect a tent. Highlights—Fly onto a remote island in the Okavango Delta and experience the interior of this vast, wet wilderness. Spend time in Victoria Falls and choose from numerous wildlife, adventure or sightseeing options. Head into the wilds of South Luangwa National Park, known for its leopard sightings. Enjoy a 4WD safari in the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. Chill out on the island of Zanzibar for a well-earned rest.

48

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

MWKL

$175-$200

RJD

min 4 max 18

8

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Cape Town, Cederberg Area, Orange River, Fish River Canyon, Kokerboom Forest Days 5-9 Namib Naukluft National Park, Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe, Himba Tribes Days 10-14 Etosha National Park, Windhoek, Ghanzi, Maun Days 15-22 Okavango Delta, Gweta, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Lusaka Days 23-28 Chipata, South Luangwa National Park, Lilongwe, Kande Beach Days 29-32 Lake Malawi, Great Rift Valley, Mikumi National Park, Dar es Salaam Days 33-37 Zanzibar, Usambara Mountains, Karatu Days 38-42 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha, Nairobi

From the vibrant city of Cape Town to the gateway of East Africa, Nairobi, this tour showcases the main attractions and takes you to tribal lands off the beaten track. Highlights—Spend a day in the Cederburg region with the San people. View game in the wildlife-rich, but less visited South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Visit the Luwana Forest in Malawi and the villages of the Himba people in northern Namibia. Take game drives in the popular parks of Tanzania. Watch traditional dhow boats being made on the island of Zanzibar.


Siemen NP Gondar Dahir Bar Debre Markos

Axum Mekele Lalibela Kombolcha Addis Ababa Dinsho

Arba Minch Turmi

HISTORICAL ETHIOPIA

ETHIOPIA

Awassa

Siemen NP Gondar Dahir Bar

Debre Markos

NETHN 10 DAYS ADDIS ABABA TO ADDIS ABABA

Axum Mekele Lalibela

ETHIOPIA

Kombolcha Addis Ababa

Arba Minch Turmi

Dinsho

ETHIOPIA

Awassa

min 2 max 24

Tour departs DAILY

JD

8

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Bahir Dar, Lake Tana, Gondar Days 4-5 Semien National Park, Axum Days 6-8 Mekele, Lalibela Days 9-10 Kombolcha, Addis Ababa

This 11 day round trip north of Addis Ababa offers an insight into the history and people of Ethiopia. Highlights—Walk the streets of the Islamic city of Gondar and tour its many castles. Wander through the city of Axum, once home to the Queen of Sheba and possibly even the Holy Grail. Visit the unusual city of Lalibela with its 11 monolithic churches carved from pink granite. Pass caravans of camels owned by the semi-nomadic Afar shepherds. Learn about Ethiopia’s historical connections to the Bible in towns like ancient Yaha. Visit the Blue Nile. Tour the monastery of Debre Damo, the oldest church in Ethiopia. Follow the spectacular canyon river of Takeze. Meet the Oromo and Amhara people at the interesting Sunday markets in Senbete.

MADAGASCAR Antananarivo

Ranomafana NP Ifaty Beach

MWKL

$175-$200

Isalo NP

Toliara

MADAGASCAR Antananarivo

CULTURAL ETHIOPIA Ifaty Beach

MAGICAL MADAGASCAR

Ranomafana NP

NETHS 10 DAYS Isalo NP ADDIS ABABA TO ADDIS ABABA Toliara ETHIOPIA $175-$200

NMAD 13 DAYS ANTANANARIVO TO ANTANANARIVO MADAGASCAR

MWKL

min 2 max 24

JD

8

MXKL

$200-$225

min 2 max 24

JD

8

Tour departs DAILY

Tour departs DAILY

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Omo Valley, Rift Valley lakes, Lake Chamo, Nechisar National Park, Arba Minch Days 4-6 Turmi, Omorate, Mago National Park, Arba Minch Days 7-10 Chencha, Lake Awassa, Dinsho, Addis Ababa

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Antananarivo, Andasibe National Park, Lake Andraikiba Days 4-5 Ambositra, Ranomafana National Park Days 6-9 Ambalavao, Isalo National Park Days 10-12 Ifaty Day 13 Tana

Ethiopia is an emerging travel destination with varied cultures which fascinates travellers. Highlights—Visit the Omo Valley, full of green hills and Rift Valley lakes. Explore the Nechisar Plains with its abundant grazing wildlife. Discover the villages of the Konso, noted for their unusual practice of sculpting eerie wooden statues to mark the graves of the dead. Be invited into the villages and homes of the Galeb and Reshiat people. See Mount Tullo Deemtu, the second highest peak in Ethiopia. Drop in on the Dorze people, renowned for cotton weaving and building the tall beehive-shaped huts synonymous with Ethiopian architecture. View the Omo people as they ride their horses to the market to sell their wares.

Madagascar is perhaps one of the most unique and mysterious parts of Africa. Because it is an island off the East coast of the mainland, Madagascar is less visited by tourists offering more intimacy. Known for it’s sometimes strange looking animals, this island offers so much more with its forests packed with birdlife and reptiles and a large number of tribes with their diverse cultures. Highlights—Interact with the largest tribe of the island at Andasibe Village. Visit Ambositra, Madagascars wood carving centre with its medievel architecture. Go in search of the largest lemurs of the island in the Ranomfana National Park. Marvel at the curious geological formations in Isalo National Park. Relax in the sun and swim in the Indian Ocean at Ifaty.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

49


overland tours CHOBE MOBILE SAFARI

VV2 2 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO VICTORIA FALLS ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA

VXKL

$225-$250

min 6 max 24

Tour departs DAILY

Victoria Falls Chobe NP

ZIMBABWE Okavango Delta

Maun

BOTSWANA

ITINERARY: Day 1 Kasane, River Cruise, Chobe National Park Day 2 Chobe National park, Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Victoria Falls

This exciting overnight safari spends two days in magnificent Chobe National Park, famous for its vast herds of elephant. Over 70,000 elephant inhabit the park, along with other water based wildlife such as hippo and crocodiles. The Chobe River attracts prey and predators, making it a wildlife hub for the region. Highlights—Get your first glimpse of these wonderful animals whilst enjoying a boat cruise on the Chobe River, before heading back to land for an evening around the campfire. The park is fed by a vast river system which draws wildlife to its banks. On day two enter the park by vehicle to discover what lies beyond Chobe’s waterways. After a game drive we return to the town of Victoria Falls.

BEST OF BOTSWANA

CHOBE & THE OKAVANGO DELTA

VV10 10 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO VICTORIA FALLS

VM8 8 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO MAUN ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA

A

ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA

VIKYRA

VIKYACD

$150-$175

$225-$250

Tour departs SELECTED SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED TUESDAYS

ITINERARY: Day 1 Victoria Falls Days 2-3 Kasane, Chobe National Park, River Cruise, Chobe Overnight Mobile Excursion Days 4-6 Three day Okavango Delta Mokoro trip Days 7-8 Maun

ITINERARY: Day 1 Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park Day 2 Makgadikgadi Pans Day 3 Maun Day 4 Okavango Delta Mokoro Day Excursion Days 5-6 Moremi National Park Day 7 Savuti National Park Days 8-10 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

This week long trip gives you the opportunity to see the breathtaking Victoria Falls and partake in the many optional adventure activities based around the mighty Zambezi River. Visit Chobe National Park, world renowned for its large herds of elephant, and experience the Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. Highlights—View Victoria Falls from above in a microlight, small aircraft or helicopter. Be within metres of a herd of elephant as they follow their matriarch to water. Glide amongst the hippos as you canoe through the waterways of the Okavango Delta. Become part of the pride as you walk amongst lions. Visit the town of Maun, gateway to the delta. Take an optional scenic flight over the delta for the best views.

50

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

6

Explore the best of Botswana in this adventure and wildlife-rich tour. From the thundering waters of Victoria Falls you travel south into magical Botswana and then into big cat territory in the regions of Moremi and Savuti. This safari promises adventure, wildlife and fun for all. Highlights—Finding herds of elephant in Chobe National Park, canoeing through the waterways of the Okavango Delta, then heading deeper into the swamplands of the Delta to spot predators. Taking an optional scenic flight over the delta. Joining a walk through a local village to meet the people of Botswana. Rafting the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls.


NAMIBIA SOUTH

CS7 7 DAYS CAPE TOWN TO SWAKOPMUND SOUTH AFRICA-NAMIBIA $100-$125 Chobe NP Okavango Delta

Etosha NP Spitzkoppe Swakopmund

Victoria Falls

NAMIBIA

ZIMBABWE Maun

BOTSWANA

Namib Naukluft NP

Fish River Canyon NP Orange/Gariep River

SOUTH AFRICA Cederberg

VIKYRA

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Cederberg Area, Orange River, Fish River Canyon Days 4-5 Namib Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei Days 6-7 Swakopmund

From the slopes of Cape Town’s majestic Table Mountain to Namibia’s most popular seaside resort, Swakopmund, this trip takes in dunes, desolate coastline and the impressive Fish River Canyon. Highlights— Climb the highest sand dunes in the world at Sossusvlei. Meet the San Bushmen of the Cederburg region. Look into the abyss that is Fish River Canyon, the worlds second largest canyon. View the beautiful Orange River and its surrounding wineries and green farmlands. Take a tour of a township to spend time with some people of this wonderful country. Opt for action and an adrenaline rush from adventure activities in the Namib Desert. Skydive, sand board, quad bike or simply wind down in the colonial town of Swakopmund.

Cape Town

NAMIBIA & BOTSWANA ADVENTURE

SOUTHERN SUN

VS14 14 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO SWAKOPMUND ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-NAMIBIA $100-$125

VIKYRAC

CV21 21 DAYS CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS SOUTH AFRICA-NAMIBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE

VIKYRAC

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park Days 4-7 Maun, Okavango Delta Days 8-11 Kavango River, Etosha National Park, Kamanjab Cheetah Park Days 12-14 Spitzkoppe, Swakopmund

ITINERARY: Days 1-8 Cederberg, Orange River, Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei, Namib Nauklulft National Park, Swakopmund Days 9-10 Kamanjab Cheetah Park Days 11-17 Etosha National Park,Okavango Delta Days 18-21 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

This 14 day trip takes you on a journey of discovery from one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls, to the coastal town of Swakopmund, known for its sand dunes and adventure activities. Highlights—The waterholes of Etosha National Park which attract a host of animals. Wonder at the unusual rock formations of Spitzkoppe. Spend your nights star gazing in the dry lands of northern Namibia. Camp in the wilderness of the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta system consisting of channels, islands and lagoons. Go on safari in the Chobe National Park and see some of the thousands of elephants found there. Stand on the bridge that divides two nations, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

If you could combine the outback of Australia with the culture of Africa and throw in some of the best wildlife viewing in the world, you would be describing this 21 day trip. Highlights—Follow the Skeleton Coast by road as you head north. Sand board down the enormous dunes at Swakopmund. Sit on the edge of the worlds second largest canyon, Fish River Canyon. Listen as our guide explains the ancient stories of the Himba people of Namibia. Travel in a dugout canoe (mokoro) on the waterways of the Okavango Delta. Watch the interaction between mother and baby elephant from only metres away in Chobe National Park. Choose from the long list of activities available at Victoria Falls like walking with lions and riding on the back on an elephant.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

51


overland tours SOUTHERN ADVENTURE

VJ11 11 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO JOHANNESBURG ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-SOUTH AFRICA

VIKYACD

$100-$125

Victoria Falls Chobe NP Okavango Delta

ZIMBABWE Zimbabwe Ruins

Matobo NP

Francistown

Musina Kruger NP

BOTSWANA

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park Days 4-7 Maun, Okavango Delta , Francistown Days 8-11 Polokwane, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg

This 11 day camping safari provides a nice mix of wildlife with the Okavango Delta, Kruger and Chobe National Parks, plus the natural wonders of Victoria Falls. Highlights—Start the adventure early by rafting some of the best rapids in the world at Victoria Falls. Have a relaxing cold drink whilst searching for game on board your boat as you do a river safari on the Chobe River. Camp under the stars, listening to the distant noises of the night in the Okavango Delta. Drift amongst the wildlife of the delta in your Mokoro as your poler pushes you through the channels of water. Tick off the ‘Big Five’ as you spot them on your game drive in South Africa’s premier national park, Kruger.

SOUTHERN ESCAPE

NORTHERN ADVENTURE

JJ22 22 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG

JV11 11 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS SOUTH AFRICA-ZIMBABWE

SOUTH AFRICA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA

VIKYACD

$100-$125

6

6

VIKYACD

$75-$100

6

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Imvubu Nature Camp, Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Days 4-5 Musina, Masvingo, Great Zimbabwe Ruins Days 6-7 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 8-11 Bulawayo, Matobo National Park, Victoria Falls

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Umvubu, Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Days 4-5 Musina, Masvingo, Great Zimbabwe Ruins Days 6-7 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 8-13 Matobo National Park, Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park Days 14-18 Maun, Okavango Delta Days 19-22 Kruger National Park, Johannesburg

This 11 day adventure tour takes you into the less touristy areas of Zimbabwe as you travel between South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg, and one of the world’s most famous sights, Victoria Falls. Highlights—Visit South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park in search of the ‘Big Five’. Admire the natural splendour of the Blyde River Canyon. Explore the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, remnants of the lost Shona civilisation from the 11th Century. Walk with a lion cub at Antelope Park. Appreciate San Bushmen rock paintings at Matobo National Park. End your journey on a high at the mighty Victoria Falls.

52

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

Starting from Johannesburg, this 22 day tour offers the perfect balance of wildlife, history and natural sites. Highlights—Gaze into the thick vegetation as you search for the elusive lion in Kruger National Park. Imagine past civilisations as you wander amongst the remains of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Walk with lions or do an elephant back safari at Antelope Park. Learn about the smaller animals and flora from your guide as you go on a walking safari in Matobo National Park. Camp out amongst the islands of the Okavango Delta, as you go on safari in a mokoro canoe. Join your friends on a boat cruise of the Chobe River.


CAPE, FALLS & KALAHARI EXPRESS CJ7 7 DAYS CAPE TOWN TO JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA

VIKYAD

$100-$125

6

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Cape Town, Cederberg Area, Augrabies Falls National Park Days 3-4 Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park, Days 5-7 Vryburg, Johannesburg Kruger NP

Johannesburg Kgalagadi Transfrontier NP

SWAZILAND

Vryburg Drakensberg Mountains

Augrabies Falls NP

SOUTH AFRICA Cederberg

Cape Town

Oudtshoom

St. Lucia

LESOTHO Addo Coffee Bay

Tsitsikamma NP

For something completely different, escape the tourist crowds for a week and head north from Cape Town to Johannesburg via the Transfrontier National Park. Highlights— The Karoo, South Africa’s outback with its colonial towns and rugged farmland. Stand at the edge of Agrabies Falls where the nation’s largest river plummets into a series of waterfalls. Explore the red dunes of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in search of the black maned lion. Meet the San people who have wandered throughout this land for centuries. Enjoy the remoteness of the Karoo, the rural lands of central South Africa. Enter vibrant Cape Town with a group of new friends ready to take on all that this exciting city has to offer.

KRUGER, DRAKENSBERG & GARDEN ROUTE EXPLORER JC14 14 DAYS

RAINBOW NATION

JJ21 21 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG

JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA-SWAZILAND

SOUTH AFRICA-SWAZILAND

VIKYACD

$125-$150

6

VIKYACD

$100-$125

6

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Umvubu, Kruger National Park Days 3-4 Swaziland, Mlilwane N.R Days 5-7 St. Lucia, Drakensberg Mountains Days 8-10 Addo Elephant National Park Days 11-12 Tsitsikamma National Park Days 13-14 Oudtshoorn, Ostrich Farm, Cango Caves, Cape Town

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Umvubu, Kruger National Park Days 3-4 Swaziland, Milwane Nature Reserve Days 5-7 St. Lucia, Drakensberg Mountains Days 8-10 Addo Elephant National Park Days 11-12 Tsitsikamma National Park Days 13-15 Oudtshoorn, Cape Town Days 16-18 Augrabies Falls National Park, Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park Days 19-21 Johannesburg

This two week trip takes in the best of Kruger National Park, Swaziland, Kwa-Zulu Natal and the famous garden route to give you a great overview of South Africa. Highlights— Mpumalanga province, home to Kruger National Park for the country’s top game viewing. Meet the friendly people of Swaziland at their traditional road side markets.Visit the coastline around St. Lucia with its wetlands and wild coastal strips. Hike to the hole in the wall at Coffee Bay. Walk from the mountains to the coast in the spectacular Tsitsikamma National Park. Mingle with the elephants in Addo Elephant Park. Try riding an ostrich at one of Oudtshoorn’s famous farms.

The three week journey shows you the soul of South Africa as your travel along the south coast, up to the far north east and into the vast interior to gain a true insight into this “Rainbow Nation”. Highlights—Enjoy the great outdoors with hikes, coastal walks and game viewing. Experience the lively atmosphere of South Africa’s coastal towns. Try something new with whale watching, ostrich riding and caving all on offer. Meet a variety of people as you travel through regions dominated by various tribal groups. Learn about the traditions of the Swazi people in the self-governed country of Swaziland. Enjoy South Africa’s two major cities and their very different vibrant lifestyles.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

53


overland tours BUSH, BEACH & FALLS SAFARI

JV14 14 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS SOUTH AFRICA-MOZAMBIQUE-ZIMBABWE

VIKYRAC

$125-$150

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Chobe NP Etosha NP Spitzkoppe Swakopmund

Victoria Falls

Okavango Delta

NAMIBIA Maun

BOTSWANA

Hwange Gweru ZIMBABWE NP Bandula Bulawayo MOZAMBIQUE Francistown Vilanculos Kruger NP

Namib Naukluft NP Fish River Canyon NP Orange/Gariep River Cederberg

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Umvubu, Kruger National Park Days 3-5 Inhambane, Morrungulo Days 6-8 Vilanculos, Bandula Days 9-10 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 11-12 Hwange National Park Days 13-14 Victoria Falls

Inhambane

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA

Cape Town

Discover some of southern Africa’s best known sights on this fantastic trip, including some of the finest game parks, pristine beaches and the natural wonder of Victoria Falls. Highlights—Game drive in Kruger National Park and spot the ‘Big Five’. Visit the picturesque coast of Mozambique, learn about its colourful history and Portuguese architecture. Enjoy Mozambique’s endless beaches and dive sites. Experience what it would be like to be a member of the pride when you walk with lions. Ride an elephant on safari in Gweru National Park. Camp amongst the friendly resident wildlife at Antelope Park in Zimbabwe. End your trip with a visit to Victoria Falls, the perfect finale.

DISCOVER SOUTHERN AFRICA

SOUTHERN AFRICA CIRCUIT

JJ25 25 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA-MOZAMBIQUE-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA $100-$125

VIKYAC

JC35 35 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN

SOUTH AFRICA-MOZAMBIQUE-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-NAMIBIA

VIKYRAC

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Umvubu, Kruger National Park Days 3-5 Morrungulo, Inhambane Days 6-8 Vilanculos, Bandula Days 9-10 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 11-12 Hwange National Park Days 13-15 Victoria Falls Days 16-21 Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta Days 22-25 Kruger National Park, Johannesburg

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Umvubu, Kruger National Park, Game Drives Days 3-5 Inhambane, Morrungulo Days 6-10 Vilanculos, Bandula, Gweru, Antelope Park Days 11-15 Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls Days 16-21 Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta Days 22-25 Etosha National Park, Cheetah Park Days 26-30 Swakopmund, Sossusvlei Days 31-35 Namib Naukluft National Park, Fish River Canyon, Cape Town

Discover the magic of southern Africa on this four-country journey which encompasses wildlife, beaches, spectacular scenery and colourful cultures. Highlights—Kruger National Park for an unrivalled wildlife experience. Explore the diversity of Mozambique, enjoying its colonial towns and laid back atmosphere. Zimbabwe’s national parks, which offer unique experiences such as walking with lions and elephant-back safaris. Experience the wilderness of Botswana as you camp on islands in the Okavango Delta and do game drives in Chobe National Park. Victoria Falls, where the grand era of colonial exploration meets modern day adventure.

54

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

If you like the look of our Southern Sun itinerary (pg 51) but are lucky enough to have more than three weeks to enjoy southern Africa, then this 35 day trip is perfect for you. You will visit many of the well-known sites plus visit the emerging hot spot of Mozambique. Highlights—From the comfort of your deckchair you can watch the rhino drink from the floodlit waterhole at our Etosha camp site. See the diversity of landscapes and animals in Kruger, Chobe and Hwange National Parks. Sand boarding, sky diving, rafting, partake in some or all of the many adventure activities available in Swakopmund and Victoria Falls.


GARDEN ROUTE EXPLORER CC11 11 DAYS CAPE TOWN TO CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA

VIKYACD

$100-$125

6

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Etosha NP

NAMIBIA

Spitzkoppe Swakopmund

Chobe NP Okavango Delta

Victoria Falls ZIMBABWE

Matobo NP Maun

BOTSWANA

Namib Naukluft NP

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA

Fish River Canyon NP Orange/Gariep River Cederberg

Cape Town

Zimbabwe Ruins

Musina

MOZAMBIQUE

Kruger NP

SWAZILAND

Drakensberg Mountains

St. Lucia Addo Elephant NP LESOTHO Oudtshoom Coffee Bay De Hoop Tsitsikamma NP Gansbaai Knysna Stellenbosch

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Stellenbosch wine tasting, Gansbaai shark cage diving, Whale watching cruise ( in season), De Hoop Nature Reserve Days 4-6 Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park, Nature Walks Days 7-8 Addo Elephant National Park Days 9-11 Oudtshoorn, Cango Caves, Ostrich Farm, Cape Town

If you plan to be in South Africa for a couple of weeks then this 11 day trip, starting in Cape Town and travelling up the coast along the famous Garden Route, is a good option. Highlights—Try a tipple or two at wineries in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Consider diving with sharks at Gansbaai’s Shark Alley. Take on an ostrich at Oudtshoorn. Spend time in Tsitsikama National Park, a forested park leading down to the ocean. Enjoy South Africa’s social life at the popular coastal resort of Knysna. Join a whale watching cruise to spot Great Southern Right Whales between Jul—Nov. Return to Cape Town with your new friends ready to take on its vibrant nightlife.

JOURNEY TO THE CAPE

SOUTH AFRICA & BEYOND

JC32 32 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-NAMIBIA

VIKYAC

JV35 35 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS SOUTH AFRICA-SWAZILAND-NAMIBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE

VIKYAC

$75-$100

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Umvubu, Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Days 4-5 Musina, Great Zimbabwe Ruins Days 6-9 Gweru, Antelope Park, Matobo National Park Days 10-12 Victoria Falls Days 13-18 Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta Days 19-22 Kavango River, Etosha National Park, Cheetah Park Days 23-27 Swakopmund, Sossusvlei Days 28-32 Namib Naukluft National Park, Fish River Canyon, Cape Town

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Umvubu, Kruger National Park, Swaziland Days 5-7 St.Lucia, Drakensberg Mountains Days 8-10 Addo Elephant National Park Days 11-15 Tsitsikamma National Park, Oudtshoorn, Cape Town Days 16-20 Orange River, Fish River Canyon, Namib Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei Days 21-25 Swakopmund, Cheetah Park Days 26-32 Etosha National Park, Okavango Delta Days 33-35 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

This economical trip allows you to spend about a month in southern Africa without spending a fortune. Highlights—Plenty of opportunity for an adrenaline rush from canoeing the Zambezi River to sky diving over the Skeleton Coast in Namibia. Enjoy excellent game viewing in various parks, from Etosha National Park to the waterways of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Visit Fish River, the world’s second largest canyon and see the stark rock faces of the Matobos. Meet tribal groups along the way for a fuller understanding of the countries you visit.

For a good look at South Africa and its northern neighbours, this tour of 35 days is ideal. Featuring South Africa’s scenic coastal strip and stopping at the main sights in Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, this trip offers a good overview of the whole of southern Africa. Highlights—Discover the wild coast of Coffee Bay by 4WD and on foot. Visit the Kingdom of Swaziland. Descend into the depths of the Cango Caves. Climb 200 metre high sand dunes in the Namib Naukluft National Park. Watch wildlife drink at one of Etosha National Park’s many water holes. Canoe the waterways of the Okavango Delta.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

55


overland tours MASAI MARA SAFARI NN3 3 DAYS NAIROBI TO NAIROBI KENYA

VIKL

Lake Nakuru NP Lake Naivasha Hell’s Gate NP

Masai Mara Reserve

Nairobi

Serengeti NP

min 2 max 24

$250-$275

KENYA

Tour departs DAILY

A

ITINERARY: Day 1 Nairobi, Masai Mara National Reserve. Day 2 Full day game viewing and exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve Day 3 Depart the Masai Mara via the northern part of the reserve for Nairobi.

This short safari visits the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya where thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle trample its plains during the annual migration. Highlights -The Mara is home to the ‘Big Five’ —lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. The reserve is also home to the proud and elegant Masai peope whose culture and ways have changed little over the centuries. The Masai people remain the traditional owners of the Mara, which retains its title as a reserve, as the Masai use it as grazing land for their cattle. Our campsite is staffed by local Masai from a nearby village. Days are spent on game drives and nights around the campfire at our tented camp.

Ngorongoro Crater Arusha

TANZANIA

DISCOVER KENYA

TANZANIAN SAFARI

NMN 5 DAYS NAIROBI TO NAIROBI

NTN5 5 DAYS NAIROBI TO NAIROBI

KENYA

KENYA-TANZANIA

VXKL

$200-$225

JD

min 4 max 18

8

VIKY

$350-$375

Tour departs SELECTED FRIDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Day 1 Lake Naivasha Day 2 Hells Gate National Park, Lake Nakuru Days 3-4 Masai Mara Game Reserve Day 5 Nairobi

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Arusha, Karatu Days 3–4 Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater Day 5 Shuttle bus transfer to Nairobi

The perfect introduction to Kenya’s wildlife, people and landscape, this five day tour is great value. Highlights—Stay at Lake Naivasha, hike around the area, game spot on bicycles in Hells Gate National Park. Take high tea at Elsamere, the beloved home of Joy Adams who was best known for her autobiography ‘Born Free’. Your game drives continue in Hells Gate National Park before staying at Lake Nakuru where you may see both Black and White Rhino. Lake Nakuru is also the home of upwards of one million pink flamingos with their pink glow visible from most of the park. Then you are off to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. This game reserve is Kenya’s most famous and for a reason, it is simply full of game for you to see firsthand and only metres from your safari vehicle. Along with the Masai people who call this reserve their home, this makes the Masai Mara an unforgettable experience.

This five day Safari is packed with game viewing. Starting in Nairobi, East Africa’s gateway city, you will travel south to Tanzania’s two most famous parks, the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Highlights— The Serengeti National Park is the largest game park in Tanzania and offers some of the most extraordinary game-viewing in Africa. With over six million hooved animals pounding the open plains, the spectacle of predator versus prey is constantly on display in this park. Bordering the Serengeti, the caldera known as the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. This 600 meter deep extinct volcano has its own ecosystem creating perfect conditions for animals of all types. From huge tusked elephants to hippos and the rare rhino, the crater has it all.

56

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221


Tanzanian Game Parks & Zanzibar ND10 10 days Nairobi to Dar es Salaam KENYA-TANZANIA

VIKYRACB

$125-$150

UGANDA D.R. CONGO

Kampala

Masai Mara Reserve RWANDA Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Lake Nakuru NP

KENYA Nairobi

Arusha

TANZANIA

Zanzibar

Dar es Salaam

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Day 1 Arusha Days 2-4 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha Days 5-6 Pangani Days 7-10 Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam

Combining the game parks of Tanzania and the island of Zanzibar, this trip offers some of the best game viewing in the world accompanied by the relaxation of an island paradise. Highlights—Visit the Serengeti National Park with its abundance of game on the grassy plains. Experience the Ngorongoro Crater, declared a World Heritage Site as it is considered one of the most important refuges for wildlife in Africa. Spend time with the Masai people grazing their cattle as they have done for centuries. Catch the ferry to Zanzibar which offers a tangle of narrow and ancient alleyways to explore in Stone Town and dazzling white beaches. Your resort in the north of the island offers time to relax, join a spice island tour, spend a day on the Indian Ocean in a traditional dhow or snorkel straight from the beach. A safari and time on the beach makes a perfect combination.

Gorillas & Game Parks Safari

Gorillas, Game Parks & Zanzibar

NN14 14 Days Nairobi to Nairobi KENYA-UGANDA

VIKYACBG

ND24 24 Days Nairobi to Dar es Salaam KENYA-UGANDA-TANZANIA

VIKYRACBG

$100-$125

$100-$125

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Masai Mara National Reserve, Days 4-6 Kampala, Gorilla Trek Days 7-10 Lake Bunyoni, Kampala, Jinja Days 11-12 Lake Nakuru National Park Days 13-14 Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, Nairobi

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Masai Mara National Reserve, Days 4-10 Kampala, Gorilla Trek , Lake Bunyoni, Jinja. Days 11-15 Lake Nakuru National Park, Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha Days 16-18 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Days 19-20 Pangani, Dar es Salaam Days 21-24 Zanzibar

One of our most popular trips, this two week camping tour offers a chance to combine the magic of Uganda with the wildlife areas of Kenya. Highlights—Game drive in Kenya’s most famous parks, the Masai Mara Game Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park. White water raft on the Nile, go quad biking or horse riding at Jinja in Uganda. Have the chance to assist in community projects. Mountain bike amongst the wildlife of Hells Gate National Park. Hop aboard a boat and motor amongst the hippos on Lake Naivasha. Purchase Masai handicrafts in a working Masai village. Spend time with a family of rare mountain gorillas, where you will sit within metres of a Silverback Gorilla and his family.

A combination of two of our most popular trips, this tour reveals the varying faces of Africa, from gorilla trekking through rainforests to relaxing on some of Africa’s best beaches. Highlights—Game drive in Kenya and Tanzania’s most famous parks: the Masai Mara Game Reserve, the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy some of the adventure activities in Uganda, including white water rafting on the Nile. Go boating amongst the hippos on Lake Naivasha. Visit a Masai village. Spend time with a family of mountain gorillas. Relax on the sandy beaches of Zanzibar, join a spice tour or drift around the island of Zanzibar in a traditional dhow boat.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

57


overland tours TREASURES OF TANZANIA NTS 9 DAYS NAIROBI TO ARUSHA Masai Mara Reserve

KENYA-TANZANIA

KENYA Lake Nakuru NP

Nairobi Kisii Serengeti NP Lake Eyasi Ngorongoro Crater

Lake Naivasha Amboseli NP Arusha

Tarangire NP

TANZANIA

Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

VXKL

$200-$225

JD

min 4 max 20

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

8

ITINERARY: Day 1 Amboseli National Park Days 2-3 Arusha, Tarangire National Park Days 4-5 Serengeti National Park Day 6 Ngorongoro Conservation Area Days 7-8 Lake Eyasi Day 9 Mto wa Mbu, Arusha

This nine day tour offers a mix of good game viewing and cultural exchanges when you visit some of the tribes in Tanzania. Highlights—Visit the Mto wa Mbu River area with its 120 tribal groups and spend time with the people in their villages. Perhaps even buy a local souvenir at the local craft markets. Take a photo of elephants with Mt Kilimanjaro in the background in Amboseli National Park. Meet the Hazabe people of Lake Eyasi in their villages. Descend the 600 meter windy road to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. Game drive with an experienced ranger in the Serengeti National Park, home to the greatest concentration of wildife in Africa. Spot game in the less-visited but impressive Tarangire National Park.

BEST OF EAST AFRICA

BEST OF EAST AFRICA & ZANZIBAR

NKTN10 10 DAYS NAIROBI TO NAIROBI

ND15 15 DAYS NAIROBI TO DAR ES SALAAM KENYA-TANZANIA

KENYA-TANZANIA

VIKYACB

VIKYACB

$225-$250

$200-$225

Tour departs SELECTED TUESDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED TUESDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Lake Nakuru National Park, Game Drive, Lake Naivasha Days 3-5 Masai Mara N.R, Game Drives, Kisii/Kericho Days 6-7 Musoma, Serengeti National Park, Game Drives Days 8-9 Ngorongoro Crater, Game Drive, Arusha Day 10 Nairobi

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Lake Nakuru National Park, Game Drive, Lake Naivasha Days 3-5 Masai Mara N.R, Game Drives, Kisii/Kericho Days 6-7 Musoma, Serengeti National Park, Game Drives Days 8-9 Ngorongoro Crater, Game Drive, Arusha Days 10-11 Pangani, Dar es Salaam Days 12-14 Zanzibar Day 15 Dar es Salaam

Incorporating four amazing game reserves over 10 days, this trip really does highlight the best of East Africa. Highlights—Visit Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its thousands of pink flamingos and healthy rhino populations. Explore the Masai Mara National Reserve, world-renowned for ‘Big Five’ sightings. Traverse the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, home to thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle and their predators. Drive into the Ngorongoro Crater with our ranger and come faceto-face with an abundance of animals contained within the crater walls. Visit a Masai village where you will learn about the Masai culture and have the opportunity to witness traditional medicines and ceremonial techniques.

58

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

Exploring four amazing game reserves and the exotic island of Zanzibar, this trip really does include the best the area has to offer. Highlights—Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its thousands of pink flamingos and healthy rhino populations. The Masai Mara National Reserve, world renowned for ‘Big Five’ sightings. Travel the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park, home to thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Join a local ranger and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater to observe the animals contained within the crater’s walls. On Zanzibar the choice is yours to relax or explore.


EAST AFRICAN DISCOVERER

VZ15 15 DAYS VICTORIA FALLS TO DAR ES SALAAM

Masai Mara KENYA Reserve Lake Nakuru NP

Nairobi Kisii

VIKYRAC

$75-$100

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha

TANZANIA

Tour departs SELECTED SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

Mikumi

ZAMBIA

Lake Malawi

Lusaka

MALAWI

Kasane

ZIMBABWE Chobe NP

BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE-ZAMBIA-MALAWI-TANZANIA

Lake Naivasha

Victoria Falls

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Livingstone Days 4-11 Lusaka, Lake Malawi beaches, Iringa, Dar es Salaam Days 12-15 Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam

This 15 day trip offers tropical beaches, tranquil lakes, scenic landscapes and mighty waterfalls. Highlights—The diversity of Zanzibar, the intriguing alleyways of old Stone Town and exotic palm-backed beaches. Swim in Malawi‘s inland freshwater lake and relax on its sandy beaches. Challenge yourself and take on some of the adventure activities based around the mighty Zambezi River at Victoria Falls. Try white water rafting, walking with lions, elephant back safaris and walks along the paths surrounding the falls. Witness the wonderful wildlife of Chobe National Park, from the bush and from the waterways of this popular game reserve.

BOTSWANA

SOUTHERN DISCOVERER

EXPRESS TO THE FALLS

NV21 21 DAYS NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS

KENYA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE

VIKYRACB

NV26 26 DAYS NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS KENYA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE

VIKYACB

$75-$100

$150-$175

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED TUESDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Days 5-9 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 10-18 Iringa, Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 19-21 Victoria Falls, Kasane, Chobe National Park overnight excursion

ITINERARY: Days 1-2 Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha Days 3-5 Masai Mara National reserve, Kisii/Kericho Days 6-7 Serengeti National Park Days 8-9 Ngorongoro Crater Days 10-14 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 15-23 Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 24-26 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

There is no shortage of action on this three week trip which combines the game parks of east Africa with the adventure activities available at Victoria Falls. Highlights—Spot the game in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania’s best known game reserves. In the Serengeti you will have the chance to see the big cats including the cheetah which thrive in the open plains. In the Crater you will be amazed at the number of animals living side by side in such limited sized environment, a truly unique experience. Visit Zanzibar which is steeped in history and tradition. Relax on the golden shores of Lake Malawi. Shop at the markets with the locals in the bustling city of Lusaka. Take a cruise on the Chobe River to see the large elephant population which is guaranteed to amaze you. Cap off your trip with a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls.

Experience the best of east Africa before you head south to Victoria Falls on this 26 day safari. Highlights—Take in some of the best known national parks in Kenya, including Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara. In Tanzania, traverse the plains of the Serengeti in search of wildlife. Spend a day wildlife spotting in the caldera of the Ngorongoro Crater. Bask on the beaches of Zanzibar and swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go for a walk and mix with Malawi’s friendly locals. Join a traditional dhow cruise on the Indian Ocean, snorkel as you stop on beaches and indulge in the fresh local seafood that Zanzibar is famous for. End your trip at one of the world’s great natural wonders, Victoria Falls.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

59


overland tours GORILLAS & SOUTHERN DISCOVERER NV35 35 DAYS NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS

UGANDA KENYA Kampala

D.R. CONGO

Masai Mara Reserve

RWANDA

Lake Nakuru NP

Nairobi Lake Naivasha

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha

TANZANIA

Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

Mikumi

ZAMBIA Chobe NP Etosha NP Spitzkoppe Swakopmund

Lake Malawi

Lusaka

MALAWI

Kasane

ZIMBABWE

Okavango Delta

Victoria Falls

NAMIBIA

Maun

BOTSWANA Namib Naukluft NP Fish River Canyon NP Orange/Gariep River Cederberg

SOUTH AFRICA

Cape Town

KENYA-UGANDA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE

VIKYRACBG

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Masai Mara National Reserve Days 4-10 Gorilla Trek, Lake Bunyoni, Kampala, Jinja Days 11-15 Lake Nakuru National Park, Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha Days 16-23 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 24-31 Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka Days 32-35 Livingstone, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

This trip combines animal sightings, including a trek to see the mountain gorillas, with time to relax and enjoy the beautiful sunsets of Zanzibar. Highlights—Enter the misty rainforests of East Africa to encounter a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Explore culturally-rich Zanzibar and hear stories of its former slave trading days and boat building empires. Enjoy the hospitality of the indigenous Malawi people. Have adrenalincharged fun in the adventure playground of Victoria Falls. Witness a plenitude of wild animals in the parks of the Serengeti and Masai Mara and descend into the base of the Ngorongoro Crater. Board a small boat as you cruise on the Chobe River to get close to its 70,000 Elephant inhabitants. Choose from a range of adventure options, including rafting near the source of the Nile, in Jinja.

AFRICAN ENCOUNTER

SOUTHERN EXPLORER

CZ36 36 DAYS CAPE TOWN TO DAR ES SALAAM SOUTH AFRICA-NAMIBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE-ZAMBIA-MALAWITANZANIA

VIKYRAC

NC42 42 DAYS NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN

KENYA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-NAMIBIASOUTH AFRICA

VIKYRACB

$75-$100

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-10 Fish River Canyon, Namib Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Cheetah Park Days 11-17 Etosha National Park, Kavango River, Okavango Delta Days 18-22 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Days 23-26 Livingstone, Lusaka Days 27-32 Lake Malawi Beaches, Iringa, Dar es Salaam Days 33-36 Zanzibar

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Days 5-9 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 10-18 Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 19-22 Victoria Falls Days 23-27 Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta Days 28-32 Etosha National Park, Game Drives, Cheetah Park Days 33-36 Swakopmund Days 37-42 Sossusvlei, Namib Naukluft National Park, Fish River Canyon, Cape Town

The time spent on this 26 day tour is split between viewing wildlife and scenic landscapes. Highlights—Climb Cape Town’s famous Table Mountain. Travel through Namibia’s dramatic desert and desolate coastline then journey inland to the tranquil lagoons and waterways of the Okavango Delta. Gaze at the majestic sight of Victoria Falls and take on one of the many adventure activities on offer there. Relax on the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi and the dazzling beaches of Zanzibar, beforel cooling off with a swim in the warm Indian Ocean.

60

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

Travelling from Kenya’s bustling capital of Nairobi to Cape Town South Africa, this trip offers plenty of culture, wildlife and some of the most spectacular scenery to be found in Africa. Highlights –Search for the ‘Big Five’ in the world renowned game parks of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Learn about the daily lives of the Masai people as you visit their village and spend time on their lands. Relax on the beach of Lake Malawi. Snorkel the magnificent reefs in Zanzibar. Then walk on the tracks leading to the majestic Victoria Falls. In Namibia, slide down the highest sand dunes in the world. Enjoy Cape Town with it great beaches, amazing sites and fun nightlife.


AFRICAN DREAM

JZ26 26 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO DAR ES SALAAM

UGANDA KENYA Kampala

D.R. CONGO

Masai Mara Reserve

RWANDA

Lake Nakuru NP

Nairobi Lake Naivasha

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha

TANZANIA

SOUTH AFRICA-BOTSWANA-ZIMABABWE -ZAMBIA-MALAWI-TANZANIA Zanzibar

Mikumi

ZAMBIA Chobe NP

Lake Malawi

Lusaka

MALAWI

Kasane

ZIMBABWE Matobo NP

BOTSWANA

VIKYAC

$75-$100 Dar es Salaam

Zimbabwe Ruins

Musina Kruger NP

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Days 4-7 Musina, Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Gweru, Antelope Park Days 8-12 Matobo National Park, Victoria Falls Days 13-15 Chobe National Park, Livingstone, Lusaka Days 16-22 Lake Malawi Beaches, Dar es Salaam Days 23-26 Zanzibar

If you have about a month to make your African dream a reality, then this trip is for you. Highlights—View the abundant wildlife in South Africa’s premier game park, Kruger National Park. Step back in time at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. See 2,000 year old rock paintings at Matobo National Park. Make the most of the activities on offer, by canoeing the Zambezi River or snorkelling in Lake Malawi. Take up the challenge of white water rafting on the Zambezi river, fly on a micro light over the Falls or join a bridge climb at Victoria Falls. Get your binoculars ready for some amazing game viewing on the Chobe River. Walk with lions, take an elephant back safari or join a nocturnal game drive at Antelope Park. End your trip winding down on the beaches of Zanzibar while spending your nights watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

NORTHERN TREK

NORTHERN SAFARI

JN46 46 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO NAIROBI

JN32 32 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO NAIROBI SOUTH AFRICA-BOTSWANA-ZIMABABWE -ZAMBIA-MALAWI-TANZANIAKENYA

VIKYACB

SOUTH AFRICA-BOTSWANA-ZIMABABWE -ZAMBIA-MALAWI-TANZANIAKENYA-UGANDA

VIKYACBG

$75-$100

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED WEDNESDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Days 4-5 Musina, Great Zimbabwe Ruins Days 6-7 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 8-12 Matobo National Park, Victoria Falls Days 13-16 Chobe National Park, Livingstone, Lusaka Days 17-26 Lake Malawi Beaches, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 27-32 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Nairobi

ITINERARY: Days 1-7 Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon, Musina, Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Gweru, Antelope Park Days 8-16 Matobo National Park, Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Lusaka Days 17-26 Lake Malawi Beaches, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 27-32 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Nairobi Days 33-38 Masai Mara National Reserve, Kampala,Gorilla Trek Days 39-44 Lake Bunyoni, Jinja, Lake Nakuru National Park Days 45-46 Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha

Africa’s amazing cultures, geography and wildlife are the major drawcards of the seven countries included in this 32 day trip. Highlights—View vast amounts of wildlife in some of Africa’s top game parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Kruger. Marvel at the natural beauty of Lake Malawi, Victoria Falls and the beaches of Zanzibar. For an actionpacked trip try rafting, tubing, snorkelling and diving along the way. Join numerous game drives in Africas major game parks viewing vast herds of zebra, gazelle, giraffe, hippos and elephants. Learn the history of Zimbabwe’s past empires at the great Zimbabwe ruins. Walk with the lions or safari on elephant back at Antelope Park.

From game parks packed with animals, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, misty rain forests and dazzling beaches. This comprehensive 46 day trip passes through eight countries visiting a variety of landscapes. Highlights—You will explore a wealth of game parks on the hunt for the ‘Big Five’ and the vast herds of animals which inhabit the parks and reserves of Eastern Africa. Marvel at the magnificent Victoria Falls. Cruise the Zambezi River keeping a watchful eye open for crocodiles and hippos. In an experience never to be forgotten, you will stare into the soft brown eyes of a rare Mountain Gorilla. Learn about the cultures of the peoples whose lands you will visit by shopping at markets, visiting villages and joining them in their daily lives.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

61


overland tours EAST SOUTH SAFARI

ZJ26 26 DAYS DAR ES SALAAM TO JOHANNESBURG

UGANDA KENYA Kampala

D.R. CONGO RWANDA

Masai Mara Reserve

Lake Nakuru NP

Nairobi Lake Naivasha

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha

TANZANIA

TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-SOUTH AFRICA Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

Mikumi Lake Malawi

ZAMBIA Chobe NP

Lusaka Kasane

Okavango Delta

MALAWI ZIMBABWE

Victoria Falls

Francistown

BOTSWANA

Kruger NP

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA

VIKYAC

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SATURDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 5-12 Iringa, Lake Malawi beaches, Lusaka Days 13-16 Livingstone, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Days 17-21 Maun, Okavango Delta Days 22-26 Francistown, Polokwane, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg

This action packed trip combines the atmospheric tropical island of Zanzibar in East Africa, with the best game viewing in southern Africa. Highlights— Laze on the palm-lined beaches of Zanzibar. Gaze at the rock escarpments in the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa. Wander along the misty walkways surrounding Victoria Falls becoming damp from the waters spray. Watch elephants in close proximity in Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Canoe the waterways of the Okavango Delta, where you will camp for two nights on small islands amongst the channels of water that create this marvel. Track the ‘Big Five’ in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Raft the Zambezi River, relax in the Devils Pools, walk with lions or ride on an African elephant at Livingstone.

SOUTHERN SAFARI

SOUTHERN TREK

NJ32 32 DAYS NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG KENYA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-SOUTH AFRICA

VIKYACB

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Days

5-9 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 10-18 Lake Malawi beaches, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 19-25 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Days 26-29 Maun, Okavango Delta, Francistown Days 30-32 Polokwane, Kruger National Park

From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the watery wilderness of the Okavango Delta, this 32 day camping trip will give you the opportunity to see some of what Africa has to offer at a leisurely pace. Highlights—Wake up for an early morning game drive in the Serengeti to see the predators when they are most active. Learn about the sad past of the slave trade which saw thousands of Africans sold and transported from the island of Zanzibar. Snorkel in one of Africa’s largest inland lakes, Lake Malawi. Listen to the thunderous sound of the mighty Victoria Falls as the water cascades into the Zambezi River. Watch the skill of the polers as they navigate effortlessly through the canals of the Okavango Delta.

62

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

NJ46 46 DAYS NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG KENYA-UGANDA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANASOUTH AFRICA

VIKYACBG

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-3 Masai Mara National Reserve Days 4-10 Kampala, Gorilla Trek, Lake Bunyoni, Jinja Days 11-15 Lake Nakuru National Park, Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, Nairobi Days 16-23 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar Days 24-32 Dar es Salaam, Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 33-40 Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park Days 41-46 Okavango Delta, Francistown, Kruger National Park, Game Drives.

Travelling south from Kenya’s bustling capital of Nairobi to South Africa’s vibrant city of Johannesburg, you will pass through eight countries on this 46 day trip. Highlights— Between July and September you may possibly witness one of the greatest mass migrations of animals in the world as over one million wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara River in search of lush grazing lands. In an experience never to be forgotten, you will stare into the soft brown eyes of a rare Mountain Gorilla. Sample some of the many exotic spices that make Zanzibar famous. Be amazed by the vast array of birds as you search the treetops through binoculars in Botswana’s Chobe National Park.


BEACH, SUN AND WILDLIFE

JZ29 29 DAYS JOHANNESBURG TO DAR ES SALAAM

UGANDA KENYA Kampala

D.R. CONGO RWANDA

Masai Mara Reserve

Lake Nakuru NP

Nairobi Lake Naivasha

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha

TANZANIA

Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

Mikumi Lake Malawi

ZAMBIA Chobe NP

Lusaka Kasane

MALAWI ZIMBABWE

Hwange Gweru NP Bandula Bulawayo

MOZAMBIQUE

BOTSWANA

Kruger NP

Vilanculos

Inhambane

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA-MOZAMBIQUE-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANA-ZAMBIA-MALAWITANZANIA

VIKYRAC

$100-$125

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-5 Kruger National Park, Inhambane, Morrungulo Days 6-8 Vilanculos, Bandula Days 9-10 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 11-15 Hwange National Park, Bulawayo, Victoria Falls Days 16-17 Chobe National Park, Livingstone Days 18-25 Lusaka, Lake Malawi beaches, Iringa, Dar es Salaam Days 26-29 Zanzibar

This interesting trip from Zanzibar to Johannesburg features Africa’s emerging tourist spot, Mozambique, and an old favourite, Zimbabwe. Highlights—Walk with lions or take an elephant-back safari in Gweru National Park. Sip cocktails whilst feasting on fresh seafood on the coastal beaches of Vilanculos. Relax at the popular laid-back village of Monkey Bay on Lake Malawi. Try a bridge climb with a difference as you scale across the two countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls. Visit Zanzibar, the birthplace of Freddie Mercury and home to some of Africa’s most interesting architecture.

SOUTH EAST EXPLORER

BEACH, BUSH & GORILLA SAFARI

NJ35 35 DAYS NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG KENYA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWE-MOZAMBIQUESOUTH AFRICA $75-$100

VIKYRACB

NJ49 49 DAYS NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG

KENYA-UGANDA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANA-ZIMBABWEMOZAMBIQUE-SOUTH AFRICA

VIKYRACBG

$75-$100

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

ITINERARY: Days 1-4 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Days 5-9 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 10-18 Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 19-24 Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park Days 25-26 Gweru, Antelope Park Days 27-29 Bandula, Vilanculos Days 30-35 Morrungulo, Inhambane, Kruger National Park

ITINERARY: Days 1-10 Masai Mara N.R, Kampala, Gorilla Trek, Lake Bunyoni, Jinja Days 11-15 Lake Nakuru National Park, Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha Days 16-23 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 24-31 Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka Days 32-36 Livingstone, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Days 37-38 Hwange National Park Days 39-23 Gweru, Antelope Park, Bandula, Vilanculos Days 44-49 Morrungulo, Inhambane, Kruger National Park

If you are looking for a holiday that combines wildlife with beautiful beaches, then this 35 day camping trip is for you. Highlights—For big game viewing, you will visit the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park. Relax in one of the rooftop bars of Stone Town to watch the hustle and bustle in the streets below of this ancient trading city. Go on a river safari in Chobe National Park and spot the crocs sunbaking on the banks. Track the wildlife with your guide in the Okavango Delta as you do a walking safari during your mokoro ( canoe ) excursion where you camp on a small island amongst the waterways of the delta. Explore the ancient streets of Mozambique admiring the past Ottoman and Portuguese architecture.

This 49 day safari combines the best sights of east and southern Africa. Highlights—Explore the historical back streets of Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar. Try snorkelling or diving amongst the reefs of Mozambique, rich in marine life. See dozens of different animals when you visit many of Africa’s most famous game parks. For a change of pace, try rafting some of the world’s best rapids at Victoria Falls. Trek the highlands for a magical hour with the magnificent mountain gorillas. Spot the ‘Big Five’ in South Africa’s premier game park, the Kruger National Park.

1300 550 221

thisisafrica.com.au

63


overland tours UGANDA

Jinja Lake Nakuru NP Kampala Nairobi Kabale Eldoret Lake Naivasha Masai Mara Musanze Reserve Kigali Serengeti NP Arusha Ngorongoro Crater Mto Wa Mbu

D.R. CONGO

RWANDA

Zanzibar

TANZANIA

Dar es Salaam

Mikumi

ZAMBIA Chobe NP

Kasane

ZIMBABWE

Okavango Delta

BOTSWANA Maun

Swakopmund Namib Naukluft NP Fish River Canyon NP Orange/Gariep River Cederberg

Cape Town

MALAWI

Victoria Falls

Nata

Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA Maseru

NC56 56 DAYS NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN

KENYA-UGANDA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-ZIMBABWE-BOTSWANANAMIBIA-SOUTH AFRICA $75-$100

VIKYRACBG

Tour departs SELECTED SUNDAYS

Lake Malawi

Lusaka

GREAT AFRICAN TREK

KENYA

MOZAMBIQUE Polokwane Kruger NP Hazyview

Drakensberg

LESOTHO

Malealea Hogsback Addo Elephant NP Oudtshoom Port Elizabeth Tsitsikamma NP

ITINERARY: Days 1-10 Masai Mara National Reserve, Kampala, Gorilla Trek, Lake Bunyoni, Jinja Days 11-15 Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha Days 16-23 Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 24-36 Lake Malawi Beaches, Lusaka, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Days 37-46 Okavango Delta, Etosha National Park, Cheetah Park Days 47-51 Swakopmund, Sossusvlei, Namib Naukluft National Park Days 52-56 Fish River Canyon, Cape Town

This is our biggest African adventure. From Kenya’s bustling capital of Nairobi, to Cape Town’s Table Mountain, this epic journey offers all the highlights of nine African countries. Highlights—Stare into the gentle eyes of a mountain gorilla. Watch thousands of animals trample the plains of the Masai Mara and the Serengeti. Bask on a palm lined beach in Zanzibar. Idle away the days on Lake Malawi. Witness with awe Zimbabwe’s thundering Victoria Falls. Sleep amongst the vast wilderness of the Okavango Delta. Climb giant sand dunes in Namibia and party in dynamic Cape Town. Game drive in such famous parks as the Ngorongoro Crater, Etosha National Park, Chobe National Park.

AFRICAN TREK

GRAND AFRICA

FAT 64 DAYS NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG KENYA-UGANDA-RWANDA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANANAMIBIA-SOUTH AFRICA-LESOTHO $100-$125

VWKL

min 4 max 32

Tour departs REFER TO WEBSITE

RH

ITINERARY: Days 1-5 Nairobi, Masai Mara National Reserve, Eldoret, Jinja Days 6-16 Kabale, Musanze, Lake Bunyoni, Kampala, Nakuru, Naivasha Days 17-25 Arusha, Serengeti National Park, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Days 26-35 Iringa, Chitimba, Kande Beach, Chipata, Lusaka, Livingstone Days 36-47 Chobe National Park, Maun, Okavango Delta, Divundu, Etosha National Park, Kamanjab, Swakopmund Days 48-56 Sesriem, Fish River Canyon, Orange River, Cederberg, Cape Town, Oudtshoorn, Tsitsikamma Days 57-64 Addo Elephant National Park, Hogsback, Lesotho, Drakensberg, Johannesburg

Discover Africa’s outstanding landscapes, diverse tribal cultures and amazing animal kingdom on this epic overland tour. Highlights—Scour savannah lands for lions as they stalk their prey and hear the call of tree top monkeys while on safari. Explore the exotic spice island of Zanzibar with its stunning beaches and fascinating architecture. Discover the source of the Nile. Visit the Kingdom of Lesotho near Johannesburg. Sit within metres of mountain gorillas in central Africa as these gentle giants go about their day. Enjoy the warm waters of Lake Malawi, Lake Bunyoni and the Indian Ocean. Go wild as you shop for carvings, stone curios and colorful cloth rugs and bags at markets on your journey.

64

THISISAFRICA.COM.AU

1300 550 221

FGA 73 DAYS NAIROBI TO LIVINGSTONE KENYA-UGANDA-RWANDA-TANZANIA-MALAWI-ZAMBIA-BOTSWANANAMIBIA-SOUTH AFRICA-LESOTHO

VWKL

$100-$125

min 4 max 32

Tour departs REFER TO WEBSITE

RH

ITINERARY: Days 1-10 Nairobi, Masai Mara National Reserve,Great Rift Valley, Eldoret, Jinja, Kabale, Musanze, Lake Bunyoni Days 11-20 Kampala, Nakuru, Naivasha, Nairobi, Arusha, Serengeti National Park Days 21-30 Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Island, Iringa, Chitimba, Kande Beach Days 31-40 Chipata, Lusaka, Livingstone, Chobe National Park,Maun, Okavango Delta Days 41-51 Divundu, Etosha National Park, Kamanjab, Swakopmund, Sesriem, Fish River Canyon, Orange River, Cederberg Days 52-60 Cape Town, Oudtshoorn, Tsitsikamma, Addo Elephant National Park, Hogsback, Lesotho Days 61-73 Drakensberg, Johannesburg, Hazyview, Kruger National Park, Palapye, Nata, Chobe National Park, Livingstone

This 73 day adventure is our longest overland tour and includes nearly all of the highlights of east and southern Africa. Traversing ten countries, visiting numerous world famous national parks and stopping at traditional villages, lively lakeside towns and bustling cities, this tour covers it all. Highlights— Stay in campsites where you will hear the sounds of wildlife in the evening. Trek the highlands of Uganda to visit a family of rare mountain gorillas. Soak up the sun on the shores of Zanizbar and Lake Malawi.


TERMS AND CONDITIONS DEFINITIONS a. In these terms and conditions ‘TIA’ shall mean This is Africa. License 2TA595. b. The ‘Client’ is the person, or persons, listed as those travelling on the booking. CONTRACT a. No contract shall exist between TIA and the Client until TIA: • Receives a signed booking form, if requested. • Receives a non-refundable deposit, or full payment if within the stipulated period. • Issues the Client, or their travel agent, a written confirmation. b. TIA prices are calculated in foreign currencies. It may become necessary to add a currency surcharge onto bookings that have not been paid in full due to currency fluctuations. c. The price ranges listed are based on low season prices, per person, twin share as at the time of publication. Seasonal variations, personal travel status and standards of accommodation may affect the price during the final quotation process. PAYMENTS a. A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total value of a booking is required to confirm the booking. Receipt of payment signifies an understanding between TIA and the Client that the Client has checked all travel documentation and they agree to the terms and conditions. b. A completed booking form, if required by our supplier, must be received upon deposit. c. Balance of payment is due 60 days prior to departure, unless otherwise advised at the time of booking. TIA reserves the right to cancel any arrangements made with the Client, if TIA or its agent does not receive such payment on the due date. If the balance of payment is not received by the due date cancellation fees as stipulated will apply. d. On occasion TIA may need to vary deposit and full payment dates due to contractual obligations with airlines and suppliers. The booking terms and conditions for associated product will vary from company to company. Should the Client require the specific booking terms for their arrangements the Client must ask the consultant at the time of booking. e. Local payments, if applicable, must be paid in the currency stipulated to the Trip Leader upon commencement of the tour. f. Excursions which incur fees and need to be paid in local currency, such as national park and entrance fees, will be listed on the Client’s invoice. Service fees Credit card service fees will be applied to the total amount paid as follows: a. MasterCard and Visa: 2% b. American Express: 3% The fee is non-refundable. Late booking fees TIA does not charge a late booking fee. However any booking request made within a supplier’s cancellation or amendment period cannot be processed until full payment has been received. If applicable a late booking fee may be charged by the supplier which will be charged to the Client. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATIONS Amendments a. TIA understands that the Client may need to amend their booking. TIA do not charge fees for any changes made prior to full payment other than those imposed by suppliers. b. Once full payment is received, TIA charges a $50 fee per person, per amendment, in addition to any fees imposed by suppliers. Cancellations a. TIA must receive cancellations in writing. The date TIA receives the Clients written notification will be treated as the date of cancellation. b. In general, cancellation charges will be levied as outlined in the below table. These may differ if suppliers stipulate their own cancellation dates and fees. Full cancellation conditions can be supplied at the time of deposit upon request. 59+ days before departure Deposit forfeited 59 - 45 days before departure 50% of trip cost 44 - 31 days before departure 75% of trip cost Within 30 days of departure 100% of trip cost

EXCLUSIONS The following are not included in the price quoted: a. Flights (unless otherwise stated); visa fees; inoculations; travel insurance; meals (when not included in the itinerary) and items of a personal nature. b. Optional excursions offered at the time of travel. c. Country and airline taxes, if applicable, that cannot be prepaid. If flights are included in the package, relevant taxes will be quoted. PASSPORT, VISA, HEALTH REQUIREMENTS, TRAVEL INSURANCE AND TRAVEL ADVICE It is the Client’s responsibility to ensure that they are in possession of valid travel documents including passports, visas and health certificates. Any advice given by TIA regarding these documents must be validated independently by the Client, as related information is subject to change. TIA recommends that all Clients refer to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) prior to booking and travelling to Africa. Official travel advice issued by DFAT is available by phoning 1300 555 135 or via DFAT’s website www.dfat.gov.au. a. The Client’s passport must be valid for at least six months after returning to Australia. b. The Client may be asked for proof of their onward travel documents and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in order to enter a country. c. Sufficient blank pages are required in the Client’s passport for entry / exit stamps, with one page for each entry or exit advised. d. The Client must verify requirements of entry for each country they visit from the relevant consulate prior to departing from Australia. e. Applications, costs and relevant documentation for all visas are the Client’s responsibility. TIA and its agents cannot be held liable for any necessary visas or travel documents not held by the Client. f. Travel insurance is compulsory. It is a condition of booking with TIA that the Client is adequately insured for the full duration of their travel in relation to illness, injury and death, loss of baggage and personal item cancellation and curtailment. RESPONSIBILITY AND CLAIMS TIA is a co-ordinator of tours and an agent for contracted suppliers. a. All information and documentation supplied by TIA has been set out with reasonable care and is published in good faith. b. All travel vouchers and airline tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by third party suppliers. All services are subject to the laws on the condition that TIA cannot be held responsible for any changes to itinerary, accommodation, transport and inclusions, loss, damage, injury, additional expenses or breaches of contract resulting directly or indirectly from the actions or omissions of suppliers, or independent parties, with whom these arrangements have been made. c. TIA will attempt to respond to all claims concerning travel arrangements within 30 days of receipt of a written claim. However it is recommended that the Client try to solve any problems with the local supplier prior to contacting TIA. d. Claims will not be processed if there has been no fault on the part of TIA or its suppliers, or the cause was the Client’s fault, or the fault of someone not associated with the trip, whose actions were unforeseeable. If the cause was the outcome of unforeseeable circumstances beyond TIA’s or its supplier’s control, the results of which were unavoidable, no claim can be made. If the cause was the Client’s fault, having taken part in any activity which does not form part of the original trip arrangements, even though the activity may be supervised, arranged or recommended by TIA or its representatives, no claim can be made. Claims cannot be made if a disease or illness is contracted during or after the trip. e. Issues with any information or advice provided to a Client by a travel agent cannot instigate a claim, unless such information has been provided to the travel agent in writing by TIA. In the case of such information or advice not having been provided by TIA, the responsibility lies with the travel agent. A claim to TIA cannot be made in relation to a travel agent not providing, or providing incorrect advice, information or documents. “THIS IS AFRICA” trading as Latitude Travel Marketing. License 2TA 595. ABN 26 911 406 385. 217 Alison Road, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia. T: 02 9664 9187 F: 02 9326 5993 E: sales@thisisafrica.com.au


Tel: 02 9664 9187 Fax: 02 9326 5993 Email: sales@thisisafrica.com.au 217 Alison Road, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia Licensed travel agent: 2TA 5985 This is Africa would like to thank the following people for their tremendous contribution in compiling this brochure. Brochure concept: Brochure design: Brochure writing & proofing:

Sally Anscombe & Patrick Barden Boccalatte with special thanks to Lou Helliwell Yvonne Barden, Sally Anscombe & Vanessa Jones

EL WITH EXPERIENCE thisisafrica.com.au


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.