Produced by Koolivoo, The Ultimate To Do List Africa is the latest publication presenting the ultimate experiences through Southern & East Africa.
This white labelled publication is available to tour operators worldwide. Contact www.koolivoo.com.au for more information.
3. Welcome
Mahlatini is an owner-run, independent tour operator, focused exclusively on luxury travel to Southern
& Eastern Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands and Arabia. Our multi-destination trips combine the perfect
balance of adventure and relaxation, as we work with you to create the ideal combination of safari, spa,
beach and city destinations. Founded over a decade ago, Mahlatini operates from offices in Belfast,
Northern Ireland, but tailor-makes trips for travellers from all corners of the globe.
Mahlatini’s passionate and knowledgeable team have travelled extensively throughout the regions we
sell, and with regular visits to these destinations we ensure our customers receive unrivalled current
and up-to-date information. We pride ourselves in delivering outstanding customer service before,
during and on return from your once-in-a-lifetime trip. With our intimate knowledge of each unique
region and the finest properties they have to offer we afford the very best insights when planning your
bespoke African honeymoon, safari or family holiday.
All of our African, Indian Ocean and Arabian partners are the best in their field and are fully bonded
through their local travel regulation bodies. We enjoy a ‘preferred partner’ status with the majority
of our suppliers, which allows us to offer customers the most competitive rates available as well as
providing those little extra touches that make a big difference.
Booking with Mahlatini assures our customers complete financial protection. Not only do we hold
the industry standard Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL number T7316), but, as members of the
Travel Trust Association (number U7098), we go much further, providing a 100% financial protection
guarantee and offering total peace of mind.
Included in this brochure are some of our favourite Southern and Eastern Africa properties, all of which
provide outstanding facilities that are capable of accommodating everyone’s unique requirements,
from honeymooners to families. For further information on our range of holidays and honeymoons
please visit our website www.mahlatini.com or alternatively contact one of our travel specialists on
+44 (0)28 9073 6050.
4. Birds of Africa 12
Behind the Lens 13
Conservation 14
Primates 17
The Great Migration 16
Cultural Chic 22
Leading Safari Guides 24
Community 26
Mobile Expeditions 28
Safaris by Horse 30
Safaris by Water 32
Walking 36
Rail Journeys 37
Safari Chic 38
Coasts and Lakes 40
Desert and Dunes 42
Majestic Victoria Falls 43
Rivers and Waterways 44
Okavango Delta 46
Spectacular Views 50
Star Gazing 51
Contents
Wildlife Experiences
Connecting with Africa
Safaris
Landscapes
02
Africa
page 12
page 20
page 28
page 40
5. Boutique Hotels 52
Gourmet Food and Wine 54
Old Colonial Charm 56
Romance 58
Spa and Wellness 60
Nairobi Luxe 62
Luxury Lodges 64
Barefoot Chic 66
Family 70
Coastal Retreat 72
Island Paradise 74
Off the Beaten Track 76
Malaria-Free 78
Style, Design and Interiors 80
Bush Camp 84
Traditional Safari Camps 86
Luxury Tented Camp 88
Under Canvas 90
Cosmopolitan Chic 92
Private Lodges 94
Contents
Indulgence
page 52
Escape
page 66
Lifestyle
page 80
03
Africa
6. Twin centre holidays are a particular Mahlatini specialism – our clients are often planning the
holiday of a lifetime and do not want to compromise in any way. As such, our multi-destination
trips, combining Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands and Arabia, bring together wild adventure,
vibrant culture and thorough relaxation, neatly packaged in a single holiday
Combining the adventure of a safari in Africa with the relaxation of a luxury
resort in the Indian Ocean is straightforward for our expert travel consultants.
Mahlatini will ensure that your once-in-a-lifetime African safari is seamlessly
merged with an equally memorable beach or city break. These combinations
particularly suit honeymooners, as the variety of experiences on offer allows
for the requirements of both Bride and Groom to be comfortably met. Twin
Centre holidays are also well suited to families, with the addition of numerous
cultural, educational and fun wildlife experiences that are fantastic for kids,
complementing the yearly beach break.
Some of the most popular combinations of ‘beach and bush’ find South Africa
twinned with Mauritius, Mozambique or the Seychelles, or another popular
choice being a safari in Kenya or Tanzania followed by a beach stay on the
island of Zanzibar. There is an abundance of activities to choose from in Africa
such as gorilla tracking in Uganda or Rwanda, viewing the Great Wildebeest &
Zebra Migration of the Serengeti or simply getting up close to the ‘Big 5’ in the
Kruger Park in South Africa. Combining safari and beach offers a classic blend
of thrilling wilderness and exotic island relaxation, catering for everyone’s
wants and wishes in one trip.
Here, at Mahlatini, we can plan your perfect holiday, advising on the merits
of various combinations whilst ensuring complete peace of mind, knowing
your holiday is in trusted hands. Whatever you decide to do, the abundance of
experiences and our expert planning will be sure to provide lasting memories.
Safari
& Beach
Holidays
04
Africa
7. 05
Africa
Alber t N i le
Victoria
Nile
Serengeti NP
Luangwa
Busanga
Plains
Zambezi
Zambia
Lung a
Ka f ue
Lufupa
Tsavo
East NP
Arusha Mt. Kilimanjaro
Tarangire NP West NP
Malawi
Zambezi
Zambezi
Lake
Tanganyika
North
Luangwa NP
Luangwa
Limpopo
Equatorial Guinea
A t l a n t i c O c e a n
Victoria Falls
Waterberg
Makgadikgadi
Pans GR
Swaziland
Dar es Salaam
Tsavo
Saadani NP
Lesotho I n d i a n O c e a n
Angola
Gabon
Republic
of the Congo
São Tomé
and Príncipe
Democratic
Republic of the Congo
Kenya
Tanzania
Mozambique
Botswana
Etosha NP
Namibia
Zimbabwe
South Africa
Uganda
Rwanda
Burundi
Madagascar
KAMPALA
NAIROBI
DODOMA
LILONGWE
MAPUTO
Namib-Naukluft NP
CAPE TOWN
PRETORIA
WINDHOEK
LUSAKA
LIBREVILLE
HARARE
GABARONE
Johannesburg
Mfuwe
Likoma
Island
Bulawayo
Francistown
Beira
Durban
Bazaruto
Archipelago
Inhambane
Vilanculos
ilha de
Moçambique
Mt. Mulanje
Lamu
Fort Portal
Mombasa
Zanzibar
Pemba
Maun
Lüderitz
Swakopmund
Omaruru
Serra Cafema
Rundu
East London
Port Elizabeth
Plettenberg Bay
Mt. Kenya
Ngorongoro Crater
Kigoma
Nanyuki
Brandberg
Mountain
Livingstone
Sossusvlei
Lake Manyara NP
Samburu NR
Meru NP
Queen Elizabeth NP
Bwindi
Impenetrable NP
Kidepo Valley NP
Masai
Mara NR
Garden
Route
Drakensburg
Mountains
Winelands
Kgalagadi
Transfrontier
Park
Matusadona NP
Niassa GR
Vwaza
Marsh
Nyika
Plateau
Selous GR
Ruaha NP
Katavi NP
Gombe Stream NP
Mahale Mountains NP
South
Luangwa NP
Hwange NP
Moremi
Chobe
NP
Gorongosa NP
Lower
Zambezi NP
Mana
Pools NP
Greater St. Lucia
Wetland Park
Madikwe GR
Nxai
Pan NP
Fish River
Canyon
Skeleton
Coast NP
Waterberg
Plateau Park
Caprivi
Strip
Central
Kalahari GR
Matobo NP
Okavango
Delta
Kafue NP
Liuwa Plain NP
Lopé
NP
Ivindo
NP
Loango NP
PNV Parc
National
Volcanes
Kruger NP
Amboseli NP
Lake
Victoria
Lake
Turkana
Lake
Bangweulu
Lake
Malawi
Lake
Kariba
Wild Coast
Damaraland
Lake Cahora Bassa
Country CAPITAL CITY
Game Reserve (GR)
National Park (NP)
National Reserve (NR)
Place Name
0 250
500 Miles
0 500 10000 Kilometers
8. Botswana
– For the team at Mahlatini, Botswana is close to safari
perfection – half its vast area is pure, unspoilt Africa
with arguably the best game viewing on the continent
Spanning vast Kalahari Desert plains, swampy wetlands and silver salt pans,
the endless, uninhabited horizons are breath-taking; particularly when enjoyed
from a birds-eye-view in a light aircraft. Botswana is undeniably one of the most
awe-inspiring landscapes on earth.
With some of the largest herds of animals in Africa and low visitor numbers,
Botswana offers a truly authentic safari experience. Its luxurious, eco-sensitive
camps are a step above exclusive with only a select few sharing the surrounding
expansive wilderness. Whether you are gliding through the crystal-clear waters
of the Okavango Delta in a canoe, quad-biking across the Makgadikgadi Salt
Pans or observing leopard on a night drive in the Linyanti, there is no shortage
of diverse experiences on offer.
Botswana is famous for its safari guides who will get you as close as possible
to the animals on game drives, walking safaris and boat trips. Some of the most
memorable sightings will likely however be from your camp.
Offering a privacy which is rare in today’s world, Botswana is the perfect
destination for that extra special holiday.
Highlights:
- The Okavango Delta – a wildlife paradise with a huge array of ecosystems
- Africa’s greatest concentrations of elephants in the Chobe and Linyanti
- The immense Makgadikgadi salt pans – a unique safari experience
- Interactions with the San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert
- The annual summer zebra and antelope migration across Makgadikgadi
and Savute – two of Africa’s largest migrations
Kenya
– The birthplace of safari, Kenya is Africa’s most famous
and prized wildlife destination
With endless savannahs teeming with game, fascinating Masai culture,
snow-capped mountains, flamingo-filled lakes and pristine beaches, Kenya
is the ultimate ‘Out of Africa’ experience.
The Masai Mara National Reserve provides the quintessential image of Africa
with its vast sweeping plains, balloon safaris and one of the world’s greatest
wildlife spectacles, the Wildebeest Migration. But forget joining the throngs of
jeeps and let Mahlatini show you an insider’s view of Kenya. Tucked away in
hidden private reserves our carefully selected camps provide all of the best of
the Mara but without the crowds.
Head north and step even further away from the maddening crowd, visiting
national reserves such as Mount Meru, Samburu and Shaba with their exquisite
mountains, savannah and desert scrub scenery.
Whether you are enjoying the inspiring views of Mount Kilimanjaro from the
Amboseli National Park, tracking black rhinos in Laikipia, touching a baby
elephant in Nairobi or lounging on the palm-fringed beaches, Kenya has it all.
The perfect twin-centre safari and beach holiday, Kenya is quite simply the
Africa of your imaginings and so much more.
Highlights:
- Hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara Reserve
- The views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli National Park
- The huge flocks of flamingos at Lake Nakuru
- Camel rides in the Laikipia Plateau
- The wildebeest migration on the plains of the Masai Mara
2
1. Botswana
2. Kenya
1
06
Africa
9. 2
07
Africa
Madagascar
– Madagascar is pure heaven for nature lovers
An island nation of vast untamed rainforest, ancient baobab trees and some of
the world’s rarest wildlife it is also an outstanding beach destination.
Lemurs are one of the main reasons people pay a visit. Over 100 species call
the island home, from the iconic ring-tailed lemur, to the bizarre looking aye-aye.
But these playful primates are barely scraping the surface; dig a little deeper
and you’ll discover hundreds of rare animals and flora. Reach for the binoculars
with bird species aplenty, chameleons to spot and Madagascan flying foxes
swooping overhead.
The island’s scenery is as diverse as its wildlife. Striking down Madagascar’s
middle, a dramatic mountain range divides tropical rainforest on one side and
savannah plains on the other, landscape photographers will be in their element.
Whilst Madagascar’s wildlife and rainforests may be the main draw, the 1,800
miles of beautiful palm-fringed beaches, numerous off-shore islands and coral
reefs give you a variety of beach options. Days can be spent snorkelling and
diving, pottering around on a bicycle or just lying on the beach.
‘Off the beaten track’, untamed and utterly unique – take it from us, Madagascar
will not disappoint.
Malawi
– It may be one of Africa’s smallest countries but when it
comes to exploration and adventure, Malawi has much
to offer; grasslands, forests, mountaintops and unspoilt
wildlife parks to Africa’s third largest and most beautiful
Lake, Lake Malawi
Fabled for its crystal clear waters and hundreds of tropical fish, Lake Malawi is a
diver’s paradise. But it doesn’t stop there; you can snorkel and kayak the lake and
relax on one of its sandy beaches. Feeling romantic? A sunset cruise isn’t out of
the question, Lake Malawi is known as the Lake of Stars after all.
Away from the lake expect to be wowed by Malawi’s mountains, rolling green
hills and National Parks which are particularly diverse in their game. Reserves
such as Majete Wildlife Reserve are virtually undiscovered by tourists making
for unique and exciting safaris.
This land-locked country is the perfect place to relax at the start or end of your
safari, or to explore as a destination in its own right.
With action packed experiences, friendly people and stunning backdrops we
found it impossible not to fall in love with the country known as the Warm Heart
of Africa.
Highlights:
- Snorkelling, diving or kayaking in the crystal clear waters of Lake Malawi.
See over 500 indigenous species of tropical fish, including Cichlids
- A safari boat trip along the Shire River in Liwonde National Park
- A stay at Kaya Mawa, one of the planet’s ten most romantic destinations
- Hiking in the Nyika Plateau
- Climbing Mount Mulanje, the highest mountain in Central Africa
1. Madagascar
2. Malawi
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.mahlatini.com
Highlights:
- Home to over 100 species of lemur and other species found only on the island
- The Ankarana National Park’s distinctive limestone ridges, known as Tsingy
- Snorkelling by the untouched island of Île Sainte-Marie
- Huge and ancient baobab trees – a sight to behold
- A huge diversity of landscapes, from thick rainforest to savannah
and semi-desert
1
10. Mozambique
– Mozambique is the ultimate castaway experience. Soft
white beaches, swaying palms and clear blue waters, it’s
starting to sound a lot like paradise
Rustic and romantic, with no large resorts, Mozambique is an authentic African
beach break providing a shipwrecked feeling on virtually uninhabited islands.
We have carefully selected eco-sensitive and intimate lodges, often with
traditional thatched bandas on the beach, to provide ‘barefoot luxury’ at its best.
Areas such as the Bazaruto Archipelago possess some of the world’s premier
dive spots and breath-taking coral reefs. Explore a stunning underwater world
and a colourful collection of marine life, from thousands of tropical fish to rare
sea turtles and the elusive dugong. The warm Indian Ocean waters are also
popular with dolphins, so swing by the southern tip of Mozambique’s coastline
to Ponta da Ouro and swim with them, or snorkel with whale sharks at Tofu Bay.
Fancy tagging on a safari to your Mozambique experience? Both Gorongosa
National Park and the Niassa Reserve offer untamed wilderness and countless
species of wildlife.
Picture perfect scenery, delicious seafood and secluded accommodation –
Mozambique is our quintessential African beach escape.
Namibia
– Other-worldly, eerily isolated and infinitely vast,
Namibia is more than a holiday destination, it’s a spiritual
journey. Lunar-like landscapes and star-filled skies will
undoubtedly inspire moments of divine reflection
Namibia, quite simply, is all about space – vast unspoilt and dramatic landscapes
from desert and coastal wilderness to enormous salt pans, rugged mountains
and the lush Caprivi Strip teeming with wildlife. If you are a keen photographer
prepare to become utterly obsessed with Namibia.
Soar above the world’s highest sand dunes in a hot-air balloon, trek the rare
black rhino or discover the ghostly shipwrecks strewn along the incredible
Skeleton Coast, one of the most remote places on the planet.
But Namibia isn’t all about landscape, scenery and sunsets – there’s also wildlife,
culture and adventure. Enjoy game drives through the Etosha National Park,
one of the finest reserves on the continent or get to grips with the traditional
lifestyles of the San Bushmen and Himba people. If you want to crank up the
adrenalin you can try out dune boarding, skydiving, mountain climbing and
horse riding adventures, to name a few.
Namibia is undoubtedly one of the most special and unique places on the
planet, providing a holiday experience never to be forgotten.
Highlights:
- The pristine, palm fringed beaches and underwater wonderland of the
Bazaruto Archipelago
- Kayak island hopping in the Quirimbas
- The Gorongosa National Park – one of the wildest and unspoilt national
parks in Africa
- Snorkelling with whale sharks in Tofu Bay
- Game fishing in the Bazaruto Archipelago
Highlights:
- A safari in Etosha National Park
- The world’s highest sand dunes at Sossusvlei in the Namib Naukluft Park
- Interaction with diverse cultures from San Bushman, to Himba people living
traditional lifestyles
- Dune Boarding on the highest dunes in the world
- Sunsets over the Fish River Canyon
2
1. Mozambique
2. Namibia
08
Africa
1
11. 09
Africa
Rwanda
– The ultimate ‘off the beaten track’ holiday experience,
guaranteed to bring out the adventurer in you, it’s time
to discover Rwanda
A country of contrasts you will lose yourself in a world of towering mountains,
rainforests and unique wildlife. Hike through the bamboo and dense jungle
of the Volcanoes National Park to discover mountain gorillas. This is a once-in-
a-lifetime experience you won’t forget, not only for your encounter with the
gorillas but for the majestic peaks of the Virunga volcanoes.
For a special encounter, watch chimpanzees swing between the branches of the
Nyungwe Forest National Park, the Amazon of Africa. But chimpanzees are only
1 of the 13 primate species found in Nyungwe Forest including the black and
white colobus monkeys found in groups of up to 400 individuals.
Also at Nyungwe, scale East Africa’s highest canopy walk suspended 50 metres
above the forest and see 240 tree species, 140 orchid species, hundreds of
butterflies and 275 bird species.
Rwanda’s 1994 genocide is of course a massively important part of its history
and memorials dotted around the country are harrowing. That said the country
has evolved into a unified and proud country with welcoming and optimistic
people, ensuring a truly memorable and inspiring trip.
South Africa
– South Africa should be on everyone’s bucket list. It
is one of the most diverse holiday destinations on the
planet; offering Big 5 safaris, jaw-dropping scenery,
modern African cities and endless adventure activities
With cosmopolitan Cape Town, Big 5 safari in Kruger National Park, picturesque
Winelands scenery, adventure on the Garden Route and sun-drenched beaches,
South Africa’s variety is thoroughly enticing.
South Africa, fondly known as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ offers a melting pot of
cultures and a rich history. This rich diversity carries over to the wonderful
cafes and internationally renowned restaurants serving the most fabulous meat
and seafood dishes. This gastronomic journey wouldn’t be complete of course
without tasting South Africa’s award winning wines.
Whether you are posing for photos at the top of Cape Town’s Table Mountain,
shark cage diving or toasting the African sunset on safari, the country’s first
world facilities and excellent infrastructure make South Africa surprisingly
stress-free to travel around, despite its size.
With fabulous settings, luxury accommodation and high class service, South
Africa never fails to exceed our expectations.
Highlights:
- Big 5 game drives in the Kruger Park
- Gazing at the beautiful city of Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain
- Wine tasting in Franschhoek
- Exploring the sheltered forests and exquisite beaches of The Garden Route
- Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains
1. Rwanda
2. South Africa
2
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.mahlatini.com
Highlights:
- Volcanoes National Park and the life changing experience of gorilla trekking.
- The site of Dian Fossey’s study of the mountain gorillas
- Lake Kivu, with lodges that overlook its great and shimmering expanse
- Nyungwe Forest National Park, probably the best preserved rainforest in
Central Africa
- A unique safari amongst the swamps, lakes and mountains of the Akagera
National Park.
1
12. Uganda
– It’s time to get off the beaten track, lace up those hiking
boots and experience Uganda – incomparable in its offering
of truly unique adventure, culture and wildlife
Scenery in Uganda is jaw dropping from lush, green forests, to snow-capped
mountains, crater lakes and savannah grasslands but the real draw card is the
wildlife – the star of the show being the primates.
Whilst the term ‘adventure of a lifetime’ is often a cliché, it is certainly true when
tracking critically endangered mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable
Forest. Meeting these gentle creatures eye to eye is an emotional experience,
one never forgotten. For pure fun and unforgettable entertainment, trek the
chimpanzees in Kibale Forest with expert guides who will bring to life the
complexities of their social structure.
Uganda is often unfairly overlooked as a safari destination. Tree-climbing lions,
massive pods of hippos, elephant herds and some of the richest birding in Africa
are all within an easy distance of the primates.
But what makes us so passionate about Uganda is the Ugandan people. Utterly
charming and genuinely warm, you will leave Uganda with a heavy heart and a
plan for your next trip! Uganda is worthy of anyone’s bucket list. Tick it off and
experience something new.
Highlights:
- The life changing experience of Gorilla Tracking at Bwindi
Impenetrable Forest
- Chimpanzees at Kibale Forest
- Boat trip to view the Murchison Falls
- Game viewing at Queen Elizabeth National Park
- White water rafting on the Nile at Jinja
1. Tanzania
2. Uganda
10
Africa
2
Tanzania
– Think ‘safari’ and you will inevitably conjure up
‘Out of Africa’ images of boundless plains, balloon
safaris and huge herds of animals. Tanzania is THE
quintessential Africa of our imaginings
Home to snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain; Africa’s
most iconic national park, the Serengeti and the continent’s largest game reserve,
the Selous; Tanzania also hosts the famous wildebeest migration. Combine these
bucket-list experiences with unspoilt, palm-fringed islands and the unique
Masai culture and you have a holiday of a lifetime.
Undoubtedly one of the most unique experiences on offer is the opportunity to
sleep ‘under canvas’. It’s camping but not as you would know it. Picture yourself
lying in your luxury tent with only a canvas wall separating you from the sounds
of Africa – take it from us, it’s a bucket list experience.
When all the safari adventure is at an end, where better to head than the picture
perfect beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago? Lounge on the exotic beaches or get
to grips with the rich Arab-Swahili cultural heritage on this famed spice island.
Typifying most people’s vision of a safari and offering so much more, Tanzania is
one of the very best travel experiences that Africa has to offer.
Highlights:
- Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
- Game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater which provides some of Africa’s
densest populations of large mammals
- Witnessing the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti National Park
- Boat cruises along the Rufiji River in the Selous Game Reserve
- Walking safaris in the Ruaha National Park
1
13. 11
Africa
Zambia
– Affectionately known as the ‘Real Africa’, Zambia is a
diverse and unspoilt wilderness, home to the legendary
African walking safari, Victoria Falls, the wild Zambezi
River and abundant wildlife
Zambia’s camps and lodges are remote and intimate – their pure seclusion and
privacy is as rewarding as any plush hotel.
Zambia’s main claim to fame is the famous Victoria Falls. Fly over it, swim in it
and, if you’re brave enough, sit on the very edge (yes you can really do that) and
peer into the stomach churning 108m abyss below. Further downstream enjoy
the abundant wildlife whilst canoeing or boating along the river channels.
But to experience Zambia in all its glory, walking safaris are the only way to go
and the South Luangwa National Park is the best place for it. Get metres away
from elephant and lion and the largest concentration of hippos in the world.
Always dreamed of a balloon safari in Africa? Soar over the Kafue National Park,
Zambia’s largest and unexplored national park with vast tracts of virgin bush
still untouched.
Zambia is the perfect destination for those with a sense of adventure and a love
of nature.
Zimbabwe
– Visit the ‘heart of Africa’ and prepare to be spellbound
by the drama of Zimbabwe’s untamed beauty and diversity
With one of the world’s best climates; wonderful scenery and diverse habitats;
excellent game densities in the national parks; a rich history and safari guides
who are some of the most qualified in Africa, Zimbabwe has so much to offer.
Alongside Zambia, Zimbabwe is home to the famous Victoria Falls – a welcome
addition to your bucket list. The falls are full of adventure activities; soar over the
108m drop with helicopter rides or tackle the rapids of the mighty Zambezi River.
Travel upstream to best explore the river’s lush waterways in the Mana Pools
National Park – watch out for crocodile and one of Africa’s largest hippo
populations as you canoe along the channels. It’s a wildlife bonanza with buffalo
lining the river banks and elephant casually wading right in front of your canoe.
You’ll find thousands of the gentle giants across Zimbabwe but especially in
Hwange National Park, home to some of Africa’s last great elephant herds.
But it’s not all about the wildlife. Get to know the fascinating history of the country
with visits to early rock art sites and the remnants of an ancient civilisation at
UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
One of Southern Africa’s most beautiful countries and premier safari destinations,
we are utterly passionate about Zimbabwe.
Highlights:
- Victoria Falls one of the Seven Natural Wonders of The World
- Matobo Hills, one of the highest rock art concentrations in Southern Africa,
dating back 13,000 years.
- The great elephant herds of Hwange National Park
- The UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Great Zimbabwe Ruins
- Mana Pools National Park – a mixture of floodplains and grasslands with
excellent game viewing
2
1. Zambia
2. Zimbabwe
For further information and itinerary ideas see our website www.mahlatini.com
Highlights:
- Seeing the Victoria Falls, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world
- Tiger fishing, boat trips and canoeing in the Lower Zambezi National Park
- A walking safari in the South Luangwa National Park
- A helicopter trip over the Kafue National Park, a rare gem for safari buffs
- Peering over the edge of the Victoria Falls from Devil’s Pool on
Livingstone Island
1
14. 12
1,2,4
3
1. Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
2. Kwando Kwara
3. Marataba Safari Lodge
4. Wilderness Safaris
Kwetsani Camp
Africa
Birds of
Africa Belmond Eagle Island Lodge Marataba Safari Lodge
Kwando Kwara Wilderness Safaris Kwetsani Camp
Ready yourself for one of the world’s
best land and air shows. See huge
saddlebill storks while drifting
through the reeds of the Okavango
Delta, or marvel at kestrels, egrets,
cranes and jewel-toned parrots.
- A captivating luxury safari paradise
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is situated on remote Xaxaba Island in Botswana’s
Okavango Delta, among a web of waterways and lush vegetation, overlooking a
lagoon that attracts a breathtaking variety of big game and exotic birds. Explore
the region by local canoe, roam on foot or take to the air in an exhilarating
helicopter flight above the magnificent Botswana landscape.
A wonderful secluded retreat, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge combines the
excitement of discovery with experiences of the real Africa to offer memorable
safari holidays. This is the spirit of Belmond, through and through.
- In this hidden place, discover Marataba, epitomising all
that is Africa
This is a mystical place at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains on the ancient
trade route through southern Africa, which leads over raging rivers and across
vast plains teeming with game.
An intriguing mix of canvas and stone, Marataba’s 15 exotic tented suites are
exquisitely furnished and decorated with a modern twist. Each supremely
luxurious suite has its own private deck overlooking the sweeping plains and
meandering river below. Lulled by the heartbeat of the bushveld, live your
dreams of safari at Marataba, the place where the plains touch the mountains.
- An intimate camp with personalised service
Enjoy a relaxed, romantic camp setting on the edge of a river lagoon in the
remote northern part of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The large, private Kwara
concession, bordering the Moremi Reserve, is a magnificent wilderness area
offering exceptional game and bird viewing. Both water and land activities take
place year-round.
The eight traditional safari-style tents on teak decks are built within a grove
of ancient ebony trees. Resident hippos serenade guests year-round from the
lagoon in front of the camp. Each tent has modern amenities, its own viewing
deck and private ensuite facilities, including hot and cold showers, and flush
toilets.
- Unplug at remote Kwetsani Camp in the Okavango Delta,
Botswana
Watch an amazing variety of birds on an elongated island covered with palm,
mangosteen and fig trees. Luxuriate at this intimate camp composed of five
beautifully and recently renovated treehouse chalets, each with private facilities
and artisanal décor.
Feel the blissful effects of airy thatch, wood, glass and canvas. Enjoy your elevated
perch, which offers astounding views of wildlife with a minimal eco footprint.
Savour delicious food and wine under a thatched roof. Ride in traditional mokoros.
And experience thrilling game drives – searching for lions on the wide floodplains
or exploring nearby Hunda Island, famous for its leopards.
15. Behind the
Lens
1
1. Alex Walker's Serian
13
Africa
Alex Walker's Serian
Cameras click and adrenalin rushes
as you capture the moment a pride
of lions kills its prey. As you shift
hides, switch lenses for an incredibly
close and colourful encounter with
nesting Carmine Bee-eaters.
- Enjoy one of the greatest concentrations of mixed species
wildlife, predators and prey in Africa
The Serengeti eco-system of Kenya and Tanzania is best known for the ‘Great
Migration’, when nearly two million wildebeest roam the plains. In this
spectacular setting lies Alex Walker’s Serian, a collection of intimate bush
camps. Among the most authentic in east Africa, they offer spirited style and
wonderful flexibility. At camps positioned in the thick of the migratory routes,
you can pop up and observe the migration year-round, escorted by seasoned
guides. A succession of unforgettable encounters awaits you.
The Masai Mara and Serengeti parks are preferred locations for serious
photographers. Benefit from guaranteed exclusive use of excellent vehicles – your
key to uncompromising adventures. As you explore these storied landscapes,
your guides keen eyes are always searching for that defining image. Over the
years, world-renowned photographers Frans Lanting, Warren Samuels, and
Anup and Manoj Shah have honed their craft and run photographic workshops
from Alex Walker camps.
16. Conservation Encounter Mara Singita Sabi Sand
14
Africa
De Hoop Nature Reserve Singita Kruger National Park
Visiting African wildlife sanctuaries
is a rare privilege. It is magical to
travel amid endangered species
like the Cape leopard, black rhino
or African elephant. Now, you can
help preserve them. Travel with local
scientists in the field and absorb
their passion for the land. Learn
which species are at risk and how
we can help, then do your part to
aid in this world-changing effort.
Tag birds, track rare animals or help
preserve endangered watering
holes. Delight in the knowledge that
you are helping save some of the
world’s most magnificent animals.
- Natural simplicity, elegance, and a personable and eco-friendly
approach to safari lodging
Encounter Mara is a classic safari camp located just north of the Masai Mara
National Reserve in the Mara Naboisho Conservancy.
Built from natural materials with a focus on conservation, Encounter Mara offers
12 custom-designed, spacious tents, positioned for privacy as well as optimal
game viewing. Encounter Mara is situated in an area rich with wildlife, including
a pride of 22 lions, several resident leopards and a wide range of plains animals;
cheetah sightings are frequent. Guests may also take advantage of safari walks
and night game drives allowed by the Mara Naboisho Conservancy.
- A thrilling wildlife experience in the heart of 'Big Five'
territory
Set against an idyllic bushveld landscape in the game rich Sabi Sand Private
Game Reserve, Singita's founding lodges, Singita Ebony and Singita Boulders,
embody a quintessentially African sense of style. Committed to preserving and
sharing some of Africa's most pristine ecosystems, Singita has an enduring vision:
to balance large-scale conservation, community-building and sophisticated
hospitality.
Led by experienced field guides and game trackers, you may participate in early
morning and evening spotlit game drives in an open Land Rover. In the Singita
Boutique and Gallery, you can find beautiful keepsakes of your memorable safari.
- One of the jewels of the Western Cape, De Hoop is a
superb stopover between Cape Town and Knysna
The 36,000-hectare De Hoop Nature Reserve, a World Heritage-listed site in
the Overberg region near the southern tip of Africa, is only a three-hour drive
from Cape Town, South Africa.
The reserve is a treasure trove of natural beauty, including its marine protected
area, one of the largest in Africa. It is characterised by rich biodiversity and rare
species of fynbos plants that lead down to an unspoiled coastline with secluded
bays, dunes and beaches ideal for private lazing, picnics and swimming. De
Hoop Nature Reserve offers a range of catered or self-catering cottages
providing comfort and luxury.
- Singita Kruger National Park lodges were built on the
promise to 'touch the earth lightly'
This commitment shows in the way the lodges were built, how they operate, and
how guests experience the wildlife and habitat. Every effort is made to respect
and protect the area, so that it is conserved for future generations.
In keeping with the philosophy of 'fewer beds in larger areas', there are
just 21 suites in the entire 13,354-hectare private concession. This does not
mean Singita has sacrificed anything in terms of the guest experience. Both
Singita Lebombo Lodge and Singita Sweni Lodge offer excellent service,
accommodations and cuisine, along with unforgettable experiences in a remote
and pristine wildlife area.
17. 1
15
7,8 6
2,5
3,4
1. Encounter Mara
2. De Hoop Nature Reserve
3. Singita Sabi Sand
4. Singita Kruger National Park
5. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
6. Khwai Tented Camp
7. Wilderness Safaris
Damaraland Camp
8. Wilderness Safaris
Ongava Lodge
Africa
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Wilderness Safaris Ongava Lodge
- This soothing retreat from your busy lifestyle offers an
authentic wildlife experience
Explore the grandeur of the little Karoo at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, just three
hours’ drive from Cape Town on renowned Route 62, one of the world’s longest
wine routes.
Sanbona is a 54,000-hectare reserve offering deluxe accommodation at three
beautifully appointed lodges plus the seasonal Explorer Camp. Dwyka Lodge
is a luxury safari tent experience set on a horseshoe riverine area. Gondwana
Lodge boasts fun for families with a 'Kids on Safari' programme. Tilney Manor
is steeped in settler history and old-world charm. Designed in true Karoo-Cape
Georgian Manor style, it features six large bedrooms with outdoor showers.
Khwai Tented Camp
Wilderness Safaris
Damaraland Camp
- Kick back and enjoy a medley of wildlife on a small hill in
Nambia’s Ongava Game Reserve
Namibia's legendary Ongava Lodge is cleverly built, using local woods and
thatch. Enjoy the remarkable sight of thirsty wildlife congregating at the nearby
waterhole, where common visitors include rhinos, lions, kudus and zebras.
The impeccable setting unfolds in 13 chalets and one family room, attractively
built of spiralling branches, thatch and glass. Indigenous touches reflect the
markings of zebras, giraffes and cheetahs, reminding guests of the abundant
wildlife in adjacent Etosha National Park, Namibia's famous game viewing
area. Delicious meals are served in the main dining area under thatch or on a
sprawling deck under African stars.
Enjoy peaceful coexistence with nature at
Khwai Tented Camp on the eastern border of
Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve. Located on
the River Khwai, the camp has the romance of
mobility. As it has no permanent structures, it
can be moved with little or no impact on the
environment, leaving the wilderness just as it
was before. Enjoy comfortable tents with beds
and ensuite bathrooms, along with great food
and personal service.
One of Namibia’s prime wilderness regions is
host to Damaraland Camp. Situated in the Huab
River Valley, it boasts endless vistas across
stark plains and ancient valleys, and a stunning
Brandberg Mountain backdrop. The ten large,
ensuite, adobe-style thatched units are raised
off the ground. Each features a walk-in dressing
area, as well as a large deck where you can sit
and savour the desert.
18. 16
1,3
2
1. Cheli & Peacock
2. Rubondo Island
3. Lewa Safari Camp
Africa
Cheli & Peacock
Rubondo Island
Lewa Safari Camp
Conservation
- One of the leading and longest established safari
operators in Kenya, the home of safari
Cheli & Peacock offered ‘sustainable tourism’ long before it became fashionable.
For almost 28 years, C&P has been an innovator and leader in conservation
initiatives and community revenue-sharing projects. With most of Kenya’s
spectacular wildlife living outside national parks, strong relationships with
communities surrounding the parks are vital to Kenya’s future. Through the Cheli
& Peacock Community Trust, C&P helps conserve biodiversity, and protect the
natural and cultural heritage of the areas where it operates. The trust also helps
protect the welfare of local communities by providing tangible, sustainable
benefits from tourism through employment, capacity-building and community
development projects.
Cheli & Peacock also represents an award-winning collection of eight boutique
safari camps and lodges, ‘The C&P Portfolio’. Each property has its own character
and style, along with a common theme: small, unique and elegant properties
with extraordinary environmental credentials.
- Offering unrivalled access to a distinctive destination
Rubondo Island Camp is the only camp on Rubondo Island, one of the largest
island national parks in Africa. The pristine forest covering 80 per cent of its
surface is home to such rare creatures as the wild chimpanzee, which was
introduced here in the 1960s to benefit from this remote habitat.
The exclusive camp includes just eight luxury cottages, all built by hand using
traditional skills and local materials to ensure a light footprint on the island’s
delicate ecosystem. Enjoy forest walks, game viewing, birding excursions, canoe
trips, trekking through wild chimpanzee territory, catch-and-release fishing and
other eco-friendly activities.
- Famous for its large and successful rhino population, as
well as the rest of the 'Big Five'
Lewa Safari Camp has a stunning location within the world-renowned Lewa
Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya. The conservancy spans 25,090 hectares and
is home to ten per cent of Kenya's black rhino population and the single largest
population of Grevy's zebras in the world.
Outstanding game viewing complements idyllic views of Mount Kenya and
beyond. The 12 plush tents each feature a thatched roof, private veranda and full
ensuite bathroom. The central areas have cool, beautiful gardens with a sunny
deck and swimming pool to enjoy during the day. Cosy log fires in the lounge
and dining room create a warm ambiance on chilly evenings.
19. 1. Greystoke Mahale Camp
2. Nyungwe Forest Lodge
3. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
17
2,3
1
Africa
Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Primates
Greystoke Mahale Camp
- This spectacular Rwandan lodge combines service
excellence with African hospitality
Enjoy an African experience rich in local culture. Boasting 22 spacious villa
rooms and two luxurious suites, Nyungwe Forest Lodge offers you supreme
comfort and style among the rolling hills of Rwanda. The only deluxe lodge
in Nyungwe National Park, Nyungwe lies in a tea plantation on the edge of
the Nyungwe closed-canopy rainforest. Located in Rwanda’s mountainous
southwest, this ancient rainforest dates back to the last Ice Age.
The lodge boasts a bistro, outdoor heated pool, boma for al fresco dining,
restaurant, tea lounge and bar, relaxation retreat with Jacuzzi, fitness centre, and
Wi-Fi.
- Dramatic, thrilling and poignant – the wildlife experience
of a lifetime
The lodge is situated in the foothills of the mighty Virunga volcanoes and only
minutes from the headquarters of Parc National des Volcans, where clients trek
on foot to see the magnificent mountain gorilla.
The eight guest cottages and the main lodge building have been beautifully
constructed and appointed, and the lodge is a wonderful base from which to
explore this unique and fascinating corner of Africa. The lodge is operated by
Governors’ Camp and owned by a community trust, which uses rentals and
community fees from the lodge to drive socio-economic and conservation
initiatives in the communities adjacent to the national park.
Venture wide-eyed into untamed
rainforests to marvel at gorilla
or chimpanzee families playing,
grooming or resting. The antics of
our closest biological relatives will
intrigue, delight and surprise you.
The smell of jasmine pervades the slopes of
Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains, while the pristine
waters of Lake Tanganyika invite you to swim.
Home to one of the world’s largest populations
of chimpanzees, this remote camp makes visiting
our forest cousins luxuriously possible. Later,
bed down in a distinctive room constructed
of locally sourced sustainable materials.
Enjoy pampered seclusion amid beaches and
mountain streams.
20. The Great
Migration Serengeti Safari Camp Sayari Camp
18
Africa
Lamai Serengeti Olakira Camp
Mark your calendar – you will
not want to miss this! From late
June through August, witness the
astounding spectacle of millions
of wild animals migrating from
the Serengeti Plains to the lush
grasslands of the Masai Mara.
Stretching to the horizon, shimmering
herds of wildebeest, gazelles and
zebras will magnetically attract
your gaze. Throughout the year,
watch for the other wild residents,
too, including lions, leopards,
cheetahs, buffalo, elephants, water-bound
hippos and crocodiles,
plus clouds of native birds. Treat
yourself to a thunderous migration.
It will be hypnotic, memorable
and possibly life changing.
- One of the first mobile camps in northern Tanzania
Serengeti Safari Camp was designed to follow the wildebeest migration
through Serengeti National Park. Each year, this little camp casts off and begins
its own odyssey, moving every couple of months along a route that the herds
have travelled for hundreds of years. It delivers a superlative experience of
extraordinary wildlife, without damaging the inspiring landscape.
The intimate camp is effortlessly comfortable. It offers just six large walk-in Meru
tents, each with a dressing area and an ensuite bathroom. The main dining tent
sits in the middle of the line of tents, with a fireplace in front and a separate
library and bar tent nearby.
- This is the Africa you have always dreamed of
Located in the remote and exclusive northern Serengeti, the award-winning
Sayari Camp is a superb place to witness one of the greatest wildlife spectacles
on the planet: the tumultuous great migration of wildebeest crossing the Mara
River in Tanzania.
Sayari Camp is home to staggering numbers of big cats, too, plus giraffes,
elephants and rhinos, often viewable from your luxurious king-size bed or
personal veranda. The 15 wood-floored tents with ensuite, double sink, shower
and stunning bath provide a private view of the Serengeti. After wildlife treks,
enjoy the infinity pool, fireplace, delicious cuisine, drinks and impeccable
service.
- A rich migration experience in a remote wilderness
In a prime location overlooking the Serengeti in Tanzania, discover Lamai
Serengeti, tucked among the red rocks of Kogakuria Kopje. Admire vast
landscapes, not far from where wildebeest cross the Mara River. Between late
July and October, you will find the great migration on your doorstep.
At Lamai Serengeti, 12 luxury rooms are split into two buildings, carefully
positioned for maximum wildlife exposure and minimum eco-footprint.
Constructed using natural canvas, plaster and wood poles, these luxuriously
equipped units provide you with a superb wilderness experience. One of the
best ways to take in the Serengeti is from your veranda.
- The intimate Olakira Camp brings the wildlife of the
Serengeti to your doorstep
As the great migration of wildebeest and zebras thunders across the expansive
plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania, the classic mobile Olakira Camp follows,
providing you with an exceptional bush experience. This nomadic East African
safari camp offers you a delightful balance of authenticity and luxury.
High-quality tent accommodations feature king-size beds and ensuite bathrooms.
Savour stunning food around the campfire under the star-filled expanse of a
velvety Serengeti sky. Explore the always game rich surrounds in specially
adapted vehicles, with some of the best guides working in this ecosystem.
21. 1,2,3,4,5,7
6
1. Serengeti Safari Camp
2. Lamai Serengeti
3. Sayari Camp
4. Olakira Camp
5. Serian Serengeti
6. Saruni Mara
7. Four Seasons Safari Lodge,
19
Serengeti
Africa
Serian Serengeti
Saruni Mara
Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Serengeti
- Settle your mobile camp at close quarters to this great
wilderness show
Immense panoramas awash with hordes of wildebeest brim with drama.
Newborn calves delight in their gangly mobility, while huge herds swarm the
riverbanks nosing out suitable crossings. Vast concentrations of wildebeest mix
with other ungulates, while lions, cheetahs and leopards pursue and delight in
the smorgasbord of nomadic animals.
From June to November, Serian's Serengeti North lies in a hidden valley
alongside the sinuous Mara River. It decamps south to the shortgrass plains of
Serian's Serengeti South from December to April, the birthing season, when the
whole area comes alive with thousands of newborn wildebeest.
- One of the most exciting wildlife sanctuaries in Africa
Saruni is an eco-friendly and community-friendly deluxe safari lodge in the
Masai Mara. Located inside the Masai-owned Mara North Conservancy, it
offers the thrill of a real African adventure coupled with the highest standards
of style and comfort. With accommodation for only 14 guests in one stunning
family villa and five cottages, Saruni is set in a remote valley of forests and hills,
overlooking the open savannah.
On safari, you drive or walk among elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras and endless
other species of wild animals, accompanied in total safety by professional
guides. Discover the magic of old Africa.
- Stay in the heart of one of Africa’s best-known wildlife
sanctuaries: Serengeti National Park, part of Tanzania’s
famed Northern Circuit
Considered by many to be among the best wildlife areas in Africa, the Serengeti
is one of Tanzania’s most famous natural wonders. The lodge has a total of 77
guestrooms. Just 12 of these are suites with plunge pools, while five are free-standing
villas, each with a private infinity pool. Each room has an elevated open-air
terrace providing direct views over the Serengeti, giving guests a private
and intimate connection to the nearby wildlife and inspirational landscape.
Guests have easy access to the Discovery Centre, which features a museum-quality
exhibition space and lecture hall to enhance interpretation of this
stunning wilderness and its wildlife, people and culture. Other key facilities
include a spa, fitness centre, games room and library. A luxurious retreat within
an unspoilt wilderness, the lodge is particularly well suited to first-time safari
travellers, extended families and groups.
22. 1. Sala’s Camp
20
1
Africa
Sala's Camp
The Great
Migration
- One of the first camps in the Masai Mara to see the migration
Sala’s Camp has the good fortune to be located at the convergence of two
rivers, in the heart of the Masai Mara. This secluded spot offers tranquillity
and tremendous views over the Sand River toward Tanzania and the Serengeti.
During the Great Wildebeest Migration from July through September, Sala’s
Camp is extremely well located, as many of the animals move back from the
Serengeti in search of lush grasslands in the Mara. The game viewing during
this time is exceptional, with dramatic river crossings and plentiful predators.
Sala’s upholds a long tradition of safari under canvas with stylish but
simple accommodation reminiscent of early mobile safaris. A warm camp
atmosphere and Masai-guided activities ensure an unforgettable safari. The
camp itself is made up of seven tents: six twin tents and one big honeymoon
suite or family tent. All of them are extremely comfortable, with large beds,
soft white linens, hanging cupboards, a sink area and an ensuite bathroom
with flushing toilet facilities. All this means that guests can enjoy the original
under-canvas experience with some modern comforts, such as electricity
and hot running water.
Before and after game drives, guests convene in the lovely mess tent, with its
beautiful lawn area, daybeds where you can spend some time with a good
book, bar and dining table, which glimmers with candles at night. As the sun
sets, the campfire is lit, drinks are poured and food is served. While guests
enjoy outstanding dinners – produced, amazingly, from a bush kitchen – tents
are closed up, beds turned down and hot water bottles tucked under the
covers. Every detail is considered at this truly special camp inside the famous
Mara Reserve.
23. 21
1. Sasaab
1
Africa
Sasaab
Cultural
Chic
- Majestically situated on the high banks of the Ewaso
Nyiro River, Sasaab offers an alluring blend of wilderness,
responsible tourism and refined luxury
Sasaab commands breathtaking views across the arid landscape of the Northern
Frontier District toward the jagged peak of Mount Kenya and offers a truly
exceptional safari experience in an area renowned for its varied species.
Elegant and chic, Sasaab comprises nine suites with huge thatched roofs and
canvas sides, along with a main pool area, spa, stunning central living space and
viewing deck. Each room is bright and open with over 100 square metres of floor
space. Private plunge pools offer an invigorating break from the heat of the day.
Attention to detail is evident throughout the lodge. Incredible food and service
are complemented by personal touches, such as watercolour sets (to enable you
to capture the view in paint) and yoga mats in all rooms. The main infinity pool
has a welcoming pizza bar, perfect for gathering round at lunchtime. The lodge's
beautiful wilderness spa, Spasaab, offers an array of indulgences. This purpose-built,
state-of-the-art haven of peace and serenity provides modern beauty and
health treatments using Liz Earle skin care products.
Situated in the midst of a community conservancy, rich in Samburu culture
and traditions, Sasaab was built with wildlife conservation and preservation
of the environment foremost in mind. The lodge has been recognised for its
community work and holds a gold eco rating. Activities include bushwalks,
camel rides, fly-camping, game drives, al fresco dining, village visits, market
visits, and opportunities to become involved with the resident community and
local conservation projects. Children of all ages are welcome at Sasaab. The
local Samburu guides speak excellent English and are delighted to take children
under their wing to teach them about Samburu traditions, such as making a bow
and arrow, or making a toothbrush out of a toothbrush tree.
Immerse yourself in the scents, tastes
and sounds of Africa as you revel in
spectacular luxury. Visit local markets,
go bushwalking or join a thrilling
game drive, then indulge in a relaxing
spa treatment or a refreshing swim.
24.
25.
26. 24
Africa
Juan Pinto Robin Pope
Alex Walker
Leading
Safari
Guides
- Juan has worked in the guiding industry since 1993
Juan is hugely knowledgeable and experienced, not simply due to many years
of observation and action in the bush, but also due to a relentless process of
self-education. A voracious reader, he keeps up with industry qualifications and
training, and has the humility and openness to keep learning from others.
Juan has a strong set of formal guiding qualifications from the Field Guides
Association of Southern Africa (FGASA). A level three professional guide and
a senior tracker, he holds special knowledge and skills qualifications in birding
and dangerous game. Juan was one of the first active guides to receive the title
of scout from FGASA.
- Zambian-born Robin Pope is one of Africa's leading safari
guides
Originally interviewed by Norman Carr, Robin Pope developed his bush
knowledge and guiding skills in the 1970s, after what was meant to be a
short break from university. In 1982, he opened a fly-in camp offering walking
safaris at Tena Tena, thereby launching Robin Pope Safaris. He created Mobile
Walking Safaris shortly afterward, and his firm has since grown to encompass
ten operations.
The company sets a benchmark for safari experiences in Zambia and Malawi,
with superb guiding and guest experiences as key elements. Robin is now in
semi-retirement, leading a number of select, remote adventures each year.
- Over 25 years’ experience in guiding and outfitting safaris
throughout east Africa
Alex was brought up in the highlands of Mufindi. He spent his childhood
scouting the bush of southern Tanzania, Kenya and the vast wilderness of
southern Sudan. He travelled the bush on foot, grubbing and casting around
with his father's trackers.
Actively involved in the formation of the Mara North Conservancy and other
local conservation initiatives, Alex has also carved out a collection of intimate
bush camps. Alex Walker’s Serian operates distinctive safaris in the Serengeti and
Masai Mara, with an emphasis on photography, walking and exploring. A keen
cameraman, Alex continues to record some of Africa's most memorable images.
Relax – your dream safari is in good
hands. Unwind on a milestone
holiday, as true professionals escort
you through the wild landscape.
These guides come from families
with rich traditions of introducing
visitors safely to the wonders of
their homeland. These legendary
characters provide for all your needs,
using traditional knowledge, acute
sensory awareness and savoir-faire.
Whether you dream of flying over
remote savannahs, canoeing croc-filled
rivers, tracking fresh lion
prints or photographing elephants
from Land Rovers, these guides can
handle the details. Your happiness
and safety are their sole motivations.
27. 1
4
3
25
5
2
1. Juan Pinto
2. Alex Walker
3. Robin Pope
4. Beks Ndlovu
5. Ralph Bousfield
Africa
Beks Ndlovu
- Beks Ndlovu believes your guide’s quality, experience and
knowledge can make or break your safari
African Bush Camps offers guides with the dedication and knowledge to
provide you with a personal yet definitive African experience. It is their mission
to not only educate and inform, but also to unravel the wilderness adventure by
challenging your heart, mind and soul. The goal is to turn a great safari into an
extraordinary one.
CEO Beks Ndlovu is one of the most respected private guides in his native
Zimbabwe. A keen photographer and writer, he specialises in tailor-made
safaris for small select groups and families in some of Africa’s most remote
places, including Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Namibia’s desert sand dunes.
Ralph Bousfield
- A pioneer of cultural and Bushmen safaris in Botswana
Ralph Bousfield is the last in a long line of family safari operators. Five generations
of safari experience have both inspired and informed his unique understanding
of and sensitivity for Africa and its people.
Apart from an interesting family background, Ralph also has an incredible sixth
sense about the bush derived from years of training and testing by his colourful
father, Jack, a legendary character both in Botswana and across Africa. Ralph did
his thesis on the wattled crane under the Crane Foundation and the Endangered
Wildlife Trust. He is also the presenter of a 13-part series on the Discovery
Channel entitled ‘Uncharted Africa’.
28. Community Nduara Loliondo
26
Africa
Uthando (Love) South Africa
- A tented experience with a difference
Nduara Loliondo, a 12-bed yurt camp, is designed to celebrate nomadic cultures.
With its style, comfort and wild setting, it is one of the most distinctive camps
anywhere in Africa. Nduara Loliondo seasonally moves across Loliondo, part of
the Great Serengeti ecosystem bordering Serengeti National Park.
This mobility allows you to night drive and safari walk in the company of Masai
guides. Be introduced to Masai culture and immerse yourself in their unique
tribal customs. Do not be afraid to get out of your vehicle and feel the earth of
Africa beneath your feet. The complex life of this vast land can best be viewed
up close.
Wilderness Safaris Doro Nawas Camp
- A unique, innovative, non-profit and Fair Trade-certified
company
Uthando (meaning ‘love’ in Xhosa) assists with a variety of interesting
social development projects in South Africa. The company offers authentic,
inspirational, interactive, fun and meaningful tours and activities for individual
travellers, as well as groups of any size, in the sprawling townships of Cape
Town, South Africa.
Daily scheduled and private tours focus on topics such as urban agriculture,
music, youth development, animal welfare, prisoner rehabilitation and theatre.
Visitors gain insights into the remarkable stories that make life in South Africa so
dynamic. Uthando also financially assists the projects it visits.
- A wonderful place to search for rare desert elephants or
explore ancient rock art
Doro Nawas Camp rests on the slope of a small hill on the edge of the dry Aba-
Huab River. This area of Namibia offers travellers untamed landscapes and
environments, including ancient plains and glorious views of rugged Damaraland.
Guests are housed in 16 natural-walled units, each with a bedroom, ensuite
bathroom, and veranda for stargazing or sleep-outs. There are indoor and
outdoor dining areas, a residential pool area, and a small curio shop. The camp
provides an excellent base for exploring the local area in game drive vehicles or
on foot. Combine a luxury safari experience here with economic empowerment
for the local community.
Africa is much more than spectacular
landscapes. Africa is defined by its
people – the nomads of Tanzania’s
Serengeti, Namibian villagers,
residents of Cape Town’s sprawling
townships, and millions more. No
visit to this continent is complete
without the opportunity to connect
with the diverse people who call
it home. Celebrate tribal life. Feel
the ancient earth beneath your feet
during a Masai-guided walk. Stop
by a rural school to learn first hand
about the challenges students face.
Step out of your comfort zone – sleep
in a mud hut, eat simple food, dance
around a fire – and come back with
stories you will treasure forever.
29. 27
1
3
2
1. Uthando (Love) South Africa
2. Nduara Loliondo
3. Wilderness Safaris
Doro Nawas Camp
Africa
30. 28
Africa
Mobile
Expeditions
andBeyond Botswana Explorer Expedition
Free your imagination with a
mobile African safari. Ride across
the captivating wilderness. Walk
spectacular bush trails in the
company of expert wildlife and
ecology guides. An extensive
selection of activities offers every
level of adventure – treat yourself to
a photography expedition or gasp in
astonishment as a timeless landscape
unfolds below you on an air safari.
Enjoy a refreshing sleep in a spacious
domed tent with crisp linens and full
ensuite facilities. Shower al fresco or
even sleep under the stars. Delight
in the culinary creations of skilled
chefs. See the authentic African
wilderness in superb comfort.
- Experience the adventure of a lifetime in some of the most
untouched corners of Botswana’s iconic game reserves
A taste of pure wilderness – delivered with the utmost comfort and a dash of
pure guest delight – the andBeyond Botswana Explorer Expedition is a guided
journey through some of Botswana’s best-known wildlife areas. Providing
exceptional game viewing, this camping adventure allows you to experience
the region by vehicle, on foot, by traditional canoe and by boat, exploring both
national parks and private wildlife concessions.
Your first destination – a magical setting where land blurs with water – is a private
campsite in the Okavango Delta. The next stop is the Moremi Game Reserve,
where the long necks of herds of giraffes are silhouetted against the sky and
graceful sitatunga hide in the reeds. The landscape changes in Savute, with its
intermittently flowing channel. In famed Chobe National Park, elephants wander
dreamily into camp and hippos slumber as you float down the river on a sunset
cruise. The final night of the adventure is at the splendidly remote Elephant Camp,
within sight of the magnificent mist that hangs above mighty Victoria Falls, where
you can choose to extend your stay to explore more of the wonders of Botswana.
Accompanied by a dedicated andBeyond guide throughout, you will enjoy a
spectacular game drive each morning in a customised 4WD safari vehicle. A
full complement of camp staff welcomes you at each new campsite, and spacious
and comfortable ensuite safari tents await you at the end of each day’s journey.
A maximum of six guests on each mobile safari ensures that everyone gets a
window seat and receives personalised attention from the expert guide. The
mobile camping portion of the expedition comprises eight nights in comfortable
domed tents with private bathrooms, each featuring ensuite flush toilet facilities
and an al fresco bucket shower. Tented guest areas include a seating area with
comfortable director’s chairs and a bush dining area.
31. 1,2,5 6
7
29
3,4
1. andBeyond Botswana
Explorer Expedition
2. Footsteps Across the Linyanti
3. Diverse Namibia
4. Great Namibian Journey
5. Great Wilderness Journey
6. Uncharted Africa
Mobile Safari Expeditions
7. Mobile Walking Safaris,
Robin Pope Safaris
Africa
African Bush Camps
Footsteps Across the Linyanti
Wilderness Safaris
Diverse Namibia
Wilderness Safaris
Great Namibian Journey
Wilderness Safaris
Great Wilderness Journey
Uncharted Africa Mobile Safari Expeditions
- Real adventure in unreal style
This safari is tailor made to suit your interests and your pace. Mobile Safari
Expeditions gives you the freedom to move to some of the best areas and follow
the game. Private camps and guides make this method ideal for families and
small groups desiring privacy and exclusivity.
This is the genuine article: a freedom-filled safari. Guests stay in traditional
and comfortable Meru tents with ensuite bathrooms and flush toilets. The sole
concession to 'roughing it' is a bush shower. Adventure-filled guided excursions,
original and fresh cuisine, and impeccable accommodations combine to create
special memories of Africa.
Mobile Walking Safaris, Robin Pope Safaris
Footsteps Across the Linyanti in the Chobe
Enclave exposes you to the heartbeat of Africa.
This safari is focused on adventure and offers
very high flexibility in terms of the distances
walked each day. The camp stays at one location
and walks are conducted in the surrounding
area, allowing for close-up encounters with
wildlife.
Thrill to an exciting adventure as you discover
key areas of this vast country. Enjoy exclusive
accommodation in private reserves and
concessions, and privileged access to secluded
locations. Take in the soaring red dunes of
Sossusvlei, the life-filled blue Atlantic Ocean,
the desert and denizens of Damaraland, and the
plains game and predators of Etosha National
Park.
This journey encompasses the highlights of
Namibia. Explore the dunes of Sossusvlei and
the awe-inspiring sights of the Namib Desert.
Encounter the stark beauty of the Skeleton
Coast, the marine life around Swakopmund
and the game filled savannahs of Etosha. Dive
with dolphins at Walvis Bay, hike or cycle
Damaraland, or track rhinos on foot.
On a classic or deluxe camping safari, immerse
yourself in Botswana's rich scenic north,
including the Okavango Delta, and the game rich
floodplains of Linyanti and Chobe. Cap your tour
with the famous Victoria Falls in Zambia. During
your three-night stays in each locale, choose from
a wide range of activities: guided walks, secure
day and night wildlife viewing, and a packed
menu of water- and land-based options.
- Walking is a superb way to really discover the secrets of
the bush
Robin Pope Safaris' Mobile Walking Safaris have a legendary reputation for
providing African wilderness experiences in South Luangwa. Walks are led by
an experienced naturalist and accompanied by an armed game scout.
The Luangwa Valley, which marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, is one of
the last unspoilt wilderness areas and among the finest wildlife sanctuaries in
Africa. The Luangwa River meanders through over 3,500 square miles of land,
where oxbow lagoons, woodlands and valley plains host huge concentrations
of game and 450 species of birds.
32. Safaris by
30
Africa
Horse Makgadikgadi Horse Riding Safaris
Imagine riding across the vast,
palm-fringed African desert on the
back of a glistening thoroughbred
stallion, in the company of a seasoned
and entertaining guide. Whether
you canter, gallop or trot, the pace
is completely up to you. Delight in
breathtaking views, exhilarating
wildlife and uncharted wilderness,
as the salty crust of Botswana’s
Makgadikgadi Pan crunches beneath
your horse’s hooves and the golden
African sun warms your soul. Train
your binoculars on giraffes, brown
hyenas, ostriches and meerkats. At
day’s end, bed down in a thoughtfully
appointed tent, beneath a glittering
galaxy of stars in a velvet sky.
- A fantastic five-night horseback-riding safari
Uncharted Africa Safari Company has teamed up with David Foot Safaris to
offer an itinerary combining three nights at Jack's Camp, San Camp or Camp
Kalahari with two nights of fly-camping out on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans of
Botswana. Now you can explore this wild, unspoilt paradise the way the earliest
explorers, hunters and missionaries did: on horseback.
The exceptional landscape of vast salt pans and sprawling open woodlands
lends itself to an unforgettable riding experience. Personal guide service,
elegant tent amenities, delicious food, crisp cotton bedding and a swimming
pool combine to raise the bar for safari holidays.
33. 31
1
1. Makgadikgadi Horse Riding
Safaris
Africa
34. Safaris
by Water Selinda Canoe Trail Wilderness Safaris Kings Pool Camp
32
Africa
African Bush Camps Zambezi Life Styles Mkulumadzi Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris
Glide atop the winding waterways
and clear lagoons of Botswana’s
Okavango Delta. Sit back as your
expert guide poles your mokoro
(dugout canoe) through long reeds
filled with tiny singing frogs and
stunning birds. Spy on hippos,
elephants and crocodiles. Explore
the Selinda Canoe Trail, the fabled
Zambezi River or the rivers of Malawi.
Delight in national parks and private
wilderness preserves. Africa’s watery
wonderlands are the lifeblood for
millions of animals, so whether you
are recharging at a luxury lodge or
adventuring at a fly-in camp, you
are ideally located to enjoy life-changing
wildlife experiences.
- A gorgeous setting for one of Botswana's leading canoeing
and walking safaris
Great Plains Conservation's Selinda Canoe Trail is a five-day/four-night
adventure, with guaranteed set departures from May to October. It travels along
Botswana's Selinda Spillway, linking the Okavango Delta with the Linyanti water
systems, in the heart of the famous private Selinda Reserve. The approximately
27-mile canoe trail, with only eight guests per departure, hearkens back to the
spirit of safaris of old.
Spend your days on guided explorations and camp each night along a riverbank.
While paddling, you may spot elephants, hippos, buffalo, sables, roans and wild
dogs, as well as predators.
- On the boundary of Chobe National Park, the
accommodation is luxurious, the wildlife spectacular
Kings Pool Camp, in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, is within a vast private
concession in the northern part of Botswana. It overlooks the Linyanti River and
the oxbow-shaped Kings Pool Lagoon, named after a Scandinavian monarch
who spent nights camping on its banks, where large herds of elephants
frequently appear.
The nine well-appointed canvas-and-thatch rooms each have a large ensuite
bedroom and lounge. Folding doors lead to a veranda with a private plunge pool,
a separate thatched sala to soak up the views and an outdoor shower. At night,
you will be serenaded by hippos and maybe hear the distant cough of a leopard.
- An authentic mobile camp set on the bank of the Zambezi
River in Mana Pools National Park
Legendary Mana Pools in Zimbabwe is known for wildlife-rich floodplains and
magnificent views of the Zambezi River. The river offers some of Africa’s premier
tiger-fishing and adventure-canoeing safaris, making this World Heritage-listed
site a 'must visit' national park.
The Zambezi Life Styles camp sets up the day before your arrival and comprises
four luxury twin-bedded tents with ensuite flush toilet, hot bucket shower, 12-
volt lamps and camera-charging stations, along with a dining tent and sitting
area. Delight in the service of Shona and Tonga staffers, who will serve you
breakfast, tea, dinner or cake as you view astonishing wildlife.
- A wonderful combination of splendid isolation and first-class
facilities
Mkulumadzi Lodge is surrounded by 27 square miles of private concession in
Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi's only 'Big Five' reserve. The lodge enjoys an
idyllic location at the confluence of two rivers.
The main lodge area includes a restaurant, lounge, terrace, bar, shop, campfire
area, viewing deck and swimming pool. The eight luxury ensuite chalets are
tucked beneath the surrounding riverine forest of marula, leadwood and star
chestnut trees. Each unit comprises a spacious bedroom and lounge area, sunken
bath, double basins, outdoor double shower, and exclusive viewing deck with a
private view of the Shire River.
35. 33
1,3,5
2,6,7 4
8
1. Selinda Canoe Trail
2. African Bush Camps
Zambezi Life Styles
3. Wilderness Safaris Kings Pool Camp
4. Mkulumadzi Lodge,
Robin Pope Safaris
5. Wilderness Safaris Xigera Camp
6. Wilderness Safaris Ruckomechi Camp
7. Sausage Tree Camp
8. Wilderness Safaris Migration Routes
Africa
Wilderness Safaris Xigera Camp Sausage Tree Camp
- Home to brilliant birds and many forms of aquatic life
Xigera Camp (pronounced Keejera) is located on a riverine island in the heart
of the Okavango Delta of Botswana. This part of the Moremi Game Reserve is a
true wetland paradise, and Xigera Camp is surrounded by deep channels and
lush vegetation.
Xigera Camp consists of ten luxuriously furnished tented rooms, each with
ensuite facilities and an outdoor shower. Raised on wooden platforms and
walkways, each tent offers superb views of the seasonal Okavango Delta
floodplains and the lagoon. Permanent water year-round permits a huge variety
of activities, such as mokoro trips, wildlife game drives and motorboat outings.
- A superb African wildlife experience in the heart of Lower
Zambezi National Park in Zambia
Sausage Tree Camp immerses you in luxury, hospitality and a true wildlife
experience. Stay in a Bedouin-style white canvas tent furnished in luxurious
fabrics and Zambian teak. Open-air bathrooms and expansive teak decks with
Zambezi River views are signatures of the camp.
Awesome game viewing heads a robust panoply of safari activities in magnificent,
tranquil surroundings. Drawing on the knowledge of professionally trained,
qualified and experienced safari guides, this safari camp offers game drives,
walking, canoeing, boating and tiger fishing. The most common sightings
include lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, hippos and crocodiles.
Wilderness Safaris Ruckomechi Camp Wilderness Safaris Migration Routes
- Take a slow ride down the Zambezi
On the middle reaches of the Zambezi River, 60 miles below Lake Kariba, is
Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe. On the park’s western edge, Ruckomechi
Camp lies on the banks of the Zambezi River, shaded by a large grove of acacia
and mahogany trees. Superb views of the mountains of Africa's Great Rift Valley
across the river in Zambia abound.
Luxurious Ruckomechi Camp accommodates guests in ten spacious ensuite
tented units, including a honeymoon suite, all overlooking the Zambezi River.
Ruckomechi Camp aims to be environmentally friendly wherever possible, with
the hot water and lighting provided via solar power.
- Follow the paw-prints across Botswana
This short nature- and wildlife-focused route includes the thundering waters of
Victoria Falls and features the continually moving wildlife of northern Botswana.
Discover the wooded deciduous forests and crystal-clear waterways of the
Linyanti, and the fertile green islands of the Okavango Delta.
Staying in private and isolated wilderness areas, enjoy a diverse range
of activities, as you follow the fault lines of northern Botswana and visit the
iconic Savute Channel. Exploring these unique wilderness areas from the air,
by vehicle, on foot or in mokoro ensures a close connection with nature and
spectacular game viewing.
36.
37.
38. Walking Kanga Camp Nsefu, Robin Pope Safaris
3,4
1. Kanga Camp
2. Kitich Camp
3. Nsefu, Robin Pope Safaris
4. Luwi Camp
36
1
2
Africa
Kitich Camp Luwi Camp
Walk trails that humans were using
long before history was recorded.
Track wildlife, scale riverbanks and
cross savannahs. Draw on your
safari guide’s deep knowledge of
history to better understand Africa.
- Where a private safari experience is the focus and tracking
wildlife on foot is a speciality
A walkers’ paradise in World Heritage-listed Mana Pools National Park in
Zimbabwe, the luxurious Kanga Camp offers six large Meru-style tents with
a total of 12 beds, all with ensuite bathrooms. Built on raised wooden decking,
the main lounge and dining area overlook the Kanga Pan, one of the area’s only
year-round water sources. It is a hub of activity for wildlife and a delight to
explore on foot.
Undeveloped, this amazing geography gives you a pure, unspoilt African safari
experience. Do not miss 'Kanga Under the Stars', your opportunity to sleep
outdoors under endless African skies, lit solely by the stars.
- Discover Nsefu, one of the first game camps in Zambia, on
a sweeping bend of Luangwa River
In the early 1950s, Nsefu Sector was recognised as a phenomenal wildlife area,
and it continues to provide visitors with a robust wildlife experience.
Robin Pope reopened the camp in 1999, keeping the original style. The bar,
tucked in beside a huge dormant termite mound, overlooks a waterhole that
attracts a wide range of wildlife, including leopards at night. Spacious bathrooms
have been added to the original rondavels, and each rondavel has a clear view
of the river through large windows and from a new wooden veranda.
- A distinctive forest hideaway offering exclusive
accommodation for a limited number of guests
Experience one of Kenya’s last great stretches of wilderness. The Mathews
Mountain Range rises out of the desert, a chain of peaks covered in lush
indigenous forest.
Tucked under a grove of fig trees, Kitich Camp overlooks a river glade. Your camp
is home to elephants, leopards, bushbucks, buffalo, ancient cycads, spectacular
butterflies, turacos and wild orchids. From the enchanted lounge, watch wildlife
emerge from the forest at dusk. Walk along forest paths in the company of a
Samburu guide, or swim in natural rock pools in crystal mountain streams. Kitich
Camp is an authentic ‘bush camp’ and offers you a private wildlife experience.
- Renowned for its excellent walking areas and as the
beginning of a camp-to-camp walking circuit
Luwi’s four thatched bamboo chalets sit idyllically amid a shady grove of ancient
trees lining the banks of the Luwi sand river in Zambia. The camp is rebuilt
each season (which lasts from 20 May to 31 October) using natural materials. It
has been described as one of the best little bush camps in Africa, with its open
ensuite bathrooms, fine bedding and excellent food, cooked freshly on-site.
Idle away hours in the nearby hide overlooking the hippo- and crocodile-filled
lagoon, which provides excellent photographic opportunities. Tracking
the resident pride of lions over a landscape unchanged for millennia is an
unforgettable experience.
39. Adrenalin
and
Kubu Island Quad Bike Expeditions Adventure
37
2
1
3
1. Elephant Whispers
2. Kubu Island Quad Bike
Expeditions
3. Tropic Air Helicopter Safaris
Africa
Tropic Air Helicopter Safaris
Elephant Whispers
See Africa in ways few others are
able – or dare – to. Hurtle across a
vast salt pan on a powerful quad
bike. Soar above astonishing
landscapes in a helicopter. Or touch
the trunk of a majestic elephant.
- An epic quad bike journey across the salt pans to a
gorgeous island
Take advantage of a rare opportunity to combine three nights at Jack’s Camp,
San Camp or Camp Kalahari with two nights spent sleeping under the stars
among the boulders and baobabs of Kubu Island, Botswana.
After arriving by quad bike, admire the crescent-shaped island’s terraced slopes.
Walk beaches fringed with wave-rounded pebbles and fossils, evidence of the
prehistoric lake’s former water levels. Crowned with an array of ancient, gnarled
baobab trees, and surrounded on three sides by a stunning grey emptiness,
Kubu has a rare atmosphere and is one of the most beautiful spots in Botswana.
- A pioneer in heli-safaris with 20 years of flying experience
Enjoy epic helicopter journeys to corners of Africa that few have ever been to, or
even heard of. Tropic Air specialises in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, the
Congo and Namibia.
Leaving the beaten path behind, these tailor-made safaris cover wild and
spectacular mountains, valleys, forests and deserts, with a focus on ‘remote and
unknown, unexplored and unforgettable’. Safaris always follow incredibly scenic
routes, with the freedom to touch down wherever possible. These journeys offer
true adventure, guided by some of the outstanding personalities who make this
corner of the globe so fascinating.
Witness elephants' intelligence, their
compassionate nature and the sheer delight they
experience when interacting with their human
counterparts. This elephant interaction gives
you the opportunity to feel their constantly
curious trunks, touch their rough skin, exchange
trunk greetings with them and offer them tasty
treats, while learning about their behaviour and
history from the elephant handlers.
40. Safari Chic Wilderness Safaris Jao Camp
38
Africa
Tawi Lodge
Kapama Karula
Just because you are indoors does not
mean you cannot immerse yourself
in the therapeutic effects of Africa’s
landscapes. Style-conscious hoteliers
have created inimitable refuges
where the décor complements your
spectacular surroundings: think
earth tones, rustic materials and
natural shapes. A bonus: many of
these luxury safari lodges have a
minimal impact on the local ecology,
ensuring guests can enjoy this lovely
balance between stunning interiors
and exteriors for generations to
come. These chic destinations also
give you the chance to indulge in
private pampering, explore stunning
wilderness and savour fine cuisine.
- All the magic and mystique of the Okavango Delta
Jao Camp is at the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta on a large, remote island.
The camp has nine individually hand-crafted, twin-bedded, canvas-and-thatch
rooms. Each includes a lounge, dressing area, main bedroom, ensuite facilities
with antique-style fittings and outdoor shower. The main area boasts an inviting
lounge and dining area, two plunge pools, a small library, a curio shop and a
boma for dining under the stars. This appealing mix is complemented by an
excellent wine cellar.
Mokoro trips, boating, fishing, and day and night game drives are offered
throughout the year, in one of the most picturesque concessions in the Delta.
Tawi Lodge is located on a private conservancy
of 2,428 hectares adjacent to Amboseli National
Park. This eco-friendly lodge offers 13 luxurious
cottages facing Mount Kilimanjaro. From the
comfort of your bed, bathtub or veranda, enjoy a
fabulous view of the wildlife that comes to drink
in the wetlands, with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
Activities include game drives, guided walks
and massages.
- A truly unusual and timeless experience on the banks of
the Klaserie River
Karula means 'place of peace'. Soon after you arrive, you will understand why
the name is perfect for this magnificent safari camp. The open-plan lounge and
bar area, with its floor-to-ceiling glass doors and neutral colours, is a restful
balance of style and natural light.
Each of Karula’s five superior suites is exquisitely decorated and offers generous
space, an indoor and outdoor shower, twin basins, bath, minibar, safe, air-conditioning,
overhead fans, telephones, wall-mounted international adapter,
Wi-Fi, iPod docking station, gas fireplace and virtually any other amenity a
seasoned traveller deserves. Big glass sliding doors provide unrestricted views
of the river and its inhabitants. Each suite has its own outdoor deck and private
lap pool. Karula also features five suites with all the luxury features of the
superior suites but without a pool. For a more authentic experience, choose one
of two tents, which provide full bush views under traditional canvas.
41. 39
1
2
3,4
1. Wilderness Safaris Jao Camp
2. Tawi Lodge
3. Kapama Karula
4. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
Africa
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
- A sanctuary symbolising a new era in luxurious South
African safari lodges
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge takes its cue from South Africa’s vast mineral wealth. Each
item of décor, including gilded chandeliers in the lounge, unique table settings
in dining areas, and sculpted furniture in the library and bar, is an original work
of art. A meditation garden leads to the dreamy Amani Spa, a great place to
safari soak, and there is a renowned subterranean wine cellar, too. The unique
‘day bar’ is a perfect place to relax with your feet in cool water, watching the
waterhole. Enjoy dinner in a boma or wine cellar, or around the central ponds.
Each of the 13 ultra-luxurious suites, including the magnificent Amber
Presidential Suite, are ensuite, with deep natural stone baths, indoor and al
fresco showers, and secluded private plunge pools with lounging chairs facing
the bushveld. All are framed by imaginative gardens. The original aesthetics
of the new Earth Lodge complement the famous Sabi Sabi safari experience of
close encounters with wildlife.
42. 1. Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge,
Robin Pope Safaris
2. Wilderness Safaris Rocktail
Beach Camp
40
1
2
Africa
Coasts
and Lakes
Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris Wilderness Safaris Rocktail Beach Camp
Photograph exotic wildlife. Scuba
dive among jewel-like reefs. Go
kayaking or wake-boarding. At day’s
end, savour a gourmet meal at an
idyllic retreat, where you may spot
dazzling birds or nesting turtles.
- Unwind in a beautiful and tranquil setting on the
Nankumba Peninsula
Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge is situated on the south end of Lake Malawi –
romantically named 'The Lake of Stars'. The lodge is subtly nestled in lush hills,
among trees and craggy outcrops. The Nankumba Peninsula is recognised as
one of the most beautiful shores of the lake and borders Lake Malawi National
Park, which was established to protect the area’s cichlid fish. In 1984, the park
became a World Heritage-listed site.
The lodge is built on a steep hillside that provides spectacular views from the
villas, dining area and main lodge. The central area consists of a spacious open
restaurant with a covered section, bar and a cosy fire pit. The infinity pool is on
a lower terraced deck. The ten villas are individual in shape and style, but each
has a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. Simply relax amid
the tranquil scenery or enjoy the many activities on offer, including snorkelling,
kayaking, water-skiing, fun-tubing, wake-boarding, sailing, fishing and diving.
- Rocktail is an underwater paradise for scuba aficionados
Nestled amid ancient dunes along South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal coast, Rocktail
Beach Camp is shaded by the bird-filled greenery of the Maputaland Coastal
Forest. Just offshore, the Maputaland Marine Reserve – often described as one
of the most diverse underwater sites in the world – offers world-class diving and
snorkelling, along with other marine adventures and remote, pristine beaches.
Dive in a World Heritage-listed site along unspoiled reefs; you will be among
the very few lucky people to have access to this stunning coastline. Do not miss
the loggerhead turtles laying eggs nearby.
The camp’s 17 rooms boast plenty of glass to invite the gorgeous outdoors inside,
plus ensuite bathrooms, mosquito nets and overhead fans. Each of the seven
family units accommodates two adults and two children with two-bedrooms
and one bathroom. The camp also has a central dining room, bar and lounge
with wrap-around veranda, viewing deck with ocean views, wine cellar, large
pool and children's playroom.
43. Desert and
41
1,3
2
4
1. andBeyond Sossusvlei
Desert Lodge
2. San Camp
3. Wilderness Safaris Kulala
Desert Lodge
4. Wilderness Safaris Serra Cafema
Africa
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge Wilderness Safaris Kulala Desert Lodge Dunes
San Camp
Wilderness Safaris Serra Cafema
Explore spectacular deserts, dunes
and mountain vistas in Namibia
and Botswana by quad bike, sand
surfboard or balloon. Plush camps,
great food and personal service
make for an exclusive experience.
- Take a breather from your hectic schedule, and reconnect
with yourself and with nature
Cradled by ancient mountains, andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is renowned
for its luxurious accommodation overlooking the starkly beautiful Namib Desert.
Designed to capture the splendour and solitude of the desert, just ten stone-and-
glass villas spread along the curve of the escarpment offer absolute privacy.
Each air-conditioned suite is furnished to complement the majestic hues of the
desert and features a private veranda, split-level bedroom and living room
with fireplace, ensuite glass-encased bathroom, and outdoor shower. The villas
are equipped with a star-viewing skylight, music system and custom-stocked
personal bar.
- 'Kulala' – To sleep, to rest, to feel the space and silence
Hidden at the foot of the majestic Sossusvlei dunes near Namib Naukluft Park,
Kulala Desert Lodge is one of the closest spots to Sossusvlei's famous attractions,
such as Dead Vlei. Its famous red dunes, mountainous scenery and vast open
plains are a spectacular setting for your luxury tented experience.
Immerse yourself in the magnitude, solitude and tranquillity of the desert through
a wide range of activities. These include private Sossusvlei tours, horseback-riding,
hot-air ballooning, scenic nature walks, trips to nearby Sesriem, eco-sensitive
guided quad-biking, and drives to view the desert’s fascinating flora
and fauna.
- One of the most romantic camps in Africa
Completely rebuilt in 2011, the camp’s six white tents stand majestically on
the edge of the endless Makgadikgadi Salt Pans of Botswana. The central
dining tent houses a small library and natural history museum filled with
fascinating artefacts. Guests can relax, unwind and retreat in the yoga and
meditation pavilion.
San Camp operates from 16 April to 15 October each year. Activities on offer
include interacting with habituated meerkats, walking with Bushmen, joining
game drives to experience fascinating desert wildlife – such as brown hyenas,
aardwolves and aardvarks – visiting Chapman’s Baobab, and quad-biking
across the pans.
Find Serra Cafema’s remote site along the banks
of Kunene River in northwest Namibia, a three-hour
light aircraft trip from Windhoek. Intimacy
is assured here in the Hartmann Valley, in a camp
that weaves together rustic and luxury elements.
River rapids provide a calming ambiance under
shady trees. Release yourself into a dreamland
of gurgling waters, and explore one of the most
starkly beautiful regions in the world.
44. Rivers and
Waterways
42
Africa
Selinda Camp
Belmond Khwai River Lodge
Kwando Lebala
It is a symphony like no other.
Listen as wetlands come alive with
the grunting of hippos, the splash
of crocodiles and the wondrous
cacophony of birdsong. On a silent
canoe ride, approach wild animals in
their natural habitat and observe them
at play. Trust your guide to lead you
to superb vantage points where you
can spot game bathing and drinking.
Marvel at some of the Earth’s last
unspoiled landscapes: shimmering
rivers, winding waterways, vast
floodplains. As dusk closes in, unwind
in an exquisite camp, lodge or villa.
Let your hosts soothe your body,
mind and spirit with great food,
vintage wines and spa treatments.
- There is a hardly a moment in camp where there is not an
animal in sight
Watch bountiful wildlife from Great Plains Conservation's Selinda Camp. It
offers a spectacular location on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, in the private
129,500-hectare Selinda Reserve of northern Botswana. Enjoy extraordinary
views of exotic game, verdant floodplains and sweeping savannah from your
shaded, luxury, tented safari camp. The raised wooden decks surrounding both
the main lounge and the guest tents allow you to enjoy delicious cuisine or
relaxing afternoon tea, while still thrilling to the incredible sight of Africa's
untamed bounty.
On safari, it is possible to see a tremendous diversity of wildlife species, from
resident prides of lions to huge herds of elephants and packs of wild dogs. You
may also see rare roans or ubiquitous zebras. Nocturnal wildlife is plentiful, so
you may spot aardwolves and civets. The glorious experience of exploring this
vast area – whether by foot, 4WD open game drive vehicle or boat – almost
defies description.
- Accommodation is everything you would expect of a
luxury safari experience
On the edge of a leadwood forest, the lodge overlooks the vast Khwai River
floodplains and beyond into the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Located in one of
Africa’s most sought-after wildlife-viewing spots, the property is renowned for
its large concentrations of big mammals – such as elephants, buffalo and hippos
– in addition to lions, leopards and wild dogs. Enjoy excellent day and night
game drives in open 4WD vehicles year-round.
All luxury tents offer great views and are located on raised wooden platforms,
shaded by traditional African thatch roofs. The large private decks are furnished
with easy chairs and a hammock, ideal for viewing wildlife.
- 'Lebala' is the Tswana word for 'wide-open plains'
At Kwando Lebala, eight spacious tents offer extensive views over African plains
and wetlands from private decks. Each tent has a bath and double outdoor
shower with hot and cold running water, and the family tent features an extra
bedroom.
Part of Botswana's Kwando-Linyanti flood plain system, the surrounding
marshlands and savannahs are an intricate labyrinth of waterways, islands,
bush, scrub and trees. In this vast, spectacular landscape, massive herds and
ever-attendant predators abound. Delight in regular sightings of elephants,
lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, impalas, wildebeest and more, while
enjoying eco-friendly comfort.
45. 43
1,2,3,6
4
5,7
1. Belmond Khwai River Lodge
2. Kwando Lebala
3. Selinda Camp
4. Luangwa River Camp,
Robin Pope Safaris
5. Kasaka River Lodge
6. Selinda Explorers Camp
7. Chongwe River Camp and
Tsika Island
Africa
Selinda Explorers Camp
Chongwe River Camp and Tsika Island
Luangwa River Camp, Robin Pope Safaris
Kasaka River Lodge
- Bring your family or small group to an exclusive private
camp in Botswana
Great Plains Conservation's Selinda Explorers Camp is nestled in a remote,
treasured location on the famous Selinda Spillway. As the lifeline of the private
Selinda Reserve, the Selinda Spillway is a crucial gathering point for the wildlife
of this pristine 129,500-hectare reserve.
Selinda Explorers Camp offers the same quality of wildlife experiences that
guests enjoy at other Selinda and Zarafa camps, but it caters exclusively to just
one group of no more than eight guests at a time. This classic camp, consisting
of four custom-designed tents, offers warm hospitality and the classic safari
experience with a modern twist.
- At the confluence of the mighty Zambezi and Chongwe
rivers in Zambia lies Chongwe River Camp
Established in 1996, Chongwe River Camp is right next to Lower Zambezi
National Park. Guests often enjoy the unforgettable sight of elephants wandering
through camp. The eight classic tents are complemented by two extravagant and
exclusive suites, which offer individual butler service and private plunge pools.
Whichever accommodation you choose, you will be in excellent hands.
Additionally, 19 miles upstream from camp is Tsika Island, a great base for an all-day
canoeing safari downriver. Accommodation on the island comprises three
unassuming chalets, which are completely private and exclusive to Chongwe
guests.
- A remarkable, distinctive camp in the Luangwa Valley
This five-bedroom camp is situated opposite the game rich Luangwa Wafwa in
the South Luangwa region of Zambia. It has all the creature comforts of a deluxe
camp, yet offers the intimacy, tailored activities and flexible mealtimes of a bush
camp.
The property’s main area is elevated on wooden decks, affording great park and
river views. The two-level swimming pool is sunk into the deck, with a waterfall
adjoining the two pools. Seating areas are elevated and open plan, with well-integrated
bar, dining and reading spaces, and the décor features locally crafted
details.
The mighty Zambezi River extends the length
of Kasaka River Lodge, just three miles from
Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park. All eight
ensuite tents, perched 15 metres above the river,
offer stunning views. The private, two-bedroom
Hippo Pod is great for families or groups of
friends, with its own pool, dining options and
guides. Enjoy an authentic, personalised and
value-for-money safari.
46. Okavango
44
Africa
Delta
andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp
Set out by mokoro (dugout canoe)
through a fascinating labyrinth of
channels and islands. The Okavango
Delta – an immense mosaic of rivers
and floodplains – offers some the
continent’s premier game viewing.
Watch the gut-wrenching survival
cycle of lions, jackals, warthogs and
even the rare African civet unfold
before your wondering eyes. At
night, luxuriate in a spacious, raised
tent suite. Drift to sleep in a four-poster
bed heaped with fluffy cotton
pillows and spread with Egyptian
linens. Even deep in the bush,
enjoy the comforts of home: ensuite
flush toilets, hot and cold running
water, showers, and soaking tubs.
- A maze of sparkling lagoons, meandering channels and
lush islands teeming with life, Botswana’s Okavango Delta is
a jewel at the heart of the Kalahari Desert
Known as the river that never finds the sea, the delta’s crystal-clear channels
spread their papyrus-fringed banks and fertile floating islands over the thirsty
lands of the Kalahari. Adapted for a life in and out of the water, the elegant red
lechwe and shy sitatunga are found in this watery wilderness. Lions, cheetahs,
leopards and African wild dogs share the floodplains with large herds of
elephants and buffalo. andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp enjoys
luxurious solitude on its own delta island within a 272,000-hectare exclusive
wildlife concession.
Taking its inspiration from the water lily, Xaranna is a delightful camp with
just nine ensuite safari tents built of canvas and bleached timber. The overall
atmosphere of the camp is cool, light and airy, in keeping with the gentle beauty
of its environment. The safari tents are organic in design and are delicately
decorated in shades of khaki and soft lily pink. Each tent boasts a romantic
outdoor sala, private plunge pool, indoor bathtub and al fresco shower. The guest
areas are all carefully positioned to maximise the sweeping views out across the
channels, allowing guests to admire the classic delta treeline silhouettes.
The camp celebrates Botswana’s iconography, with humorous design touches
throughout. The intimate guest sitting area boasts a spacious reading nook,
perfect for afternoon relaxation. The elevated dining area features shady
verandas with mesmerising views leading out onto an open-air boma, where
exotic candlelit dinners are served beneath the stars. A fully stocked safari shop
offers chic outdoor gear, African art and jewellery.