Long game drives in open vehicles, the Big 5… This is the prevailing image that most people have in their minds when they think of an African safari experience. While still a thrilling and rewarding experience, this is not all that the wonderful continent of Africa has to offer. For those who enjoy unique, out of the ordinary experiences, these safari experiences are perfect:
Langebaan Houseboats
Just inland from the secluded harbour of Saldanha Bay, one finds the azure waters of the Langebaan Lagoon, the focal point of the West Coast National Park. Thousands of seabirds roost on sheltered islands, pristine golden beaches stretch endlessly into the early morning mist, and brooding salt marshes are home to vast concentrations of migrant waders from the northern hemisphere. During the spring the strandveld is embroidered with a tapestry of multi-hued flowers. Two well-equipped Houseboats, permanently moored in the calm turquoise waters of the lagoon, offer a unique experience to all guests. The first is a luxurious, fully equipped double-storey 22 sleeper houseboat comprising 9 Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 lounges, 2 kitchens and ample deck space on both levels. This houseboat is ideally suited for corporate groups, functions, special occasions or family getaways. Also available is a cosy, fully-equipped, two-bedroomed 6-sleeper houseboat, offering an intimate getaway for couples young and old, or a fun family breakaway.
Tuli Cycle Safaris
Looking for something unique… Cycling through the Northern Tuli Reserve of Botswana is one of the most enjoyable and adventurous safari experiences on offer. Led by armed and knowledgable local guides the Cycle Mashatu Wilderness Trail provides a unique opportunity to ride at leisure along ancient elephant migration paths, cycle amongst great herds of wildlife and sleep under starlit African skies in comfortable tented accommodation. Great game viewing can be expected and on bike one gets closer than you would do on foot to the animals without the confines of being in a vehicle. Expect to see elephants, plenty of plains game and the odd predator (lion, leopard, hyena or cheetah) you may bump in to. The riding is taylor made to a groups fitness levels but usually entails a long morning’s ride followed by a scrumptious breakfast. Late afternoons guests embark on a ‘sundowner’ game drive to enjoy the always spectacular African sunset whilst sipping on a GNT or cold beer. The tours have scheduled departures and are 3 nights and 4 days. Although Mashatu is in Botswana it is easily accessible from Johannesburg and Pretoria (5 and a half hour drive) and charter flights are also available.
Climb Kilimanjaro (Marangu Route)
Situated south of the equator in Tanzania at 19 340 feet, (5 895m), Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Huge permanent glaciers flow down from the summit, and spectacular views and beautiful ice formations are the reward for the successful trekker, as well as the satisfaction of conquering this mighty peak. Not for the faint-hearted, this climb will test you to your limits, mentally as well as physically. However, the standard route is a hike, and any reasonably fit person who enjoys walking can reach the summit of Kilimanjaro. The youngest to make it was nine years old, the oldest seventy-nine. Thousands of people scramble to the top of Kilimanjaro each year. It generally takes five days to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro along the Marangu route and involves walking about eighty kilometres. The Keys Hotel, your base hotel, is located in Moshi and has a swimming pool, indoor bar and garden area, patio, a la carte restaurant and satellite television coverage. The guides employed are excellent (some have climbed Kili over 400 times!). This is truly an unforgettable experience.
Serengeti National Park Walking Safari
Imagine walking through the wilderness of the world-renowned Serengeti ecosystem and the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken caldera in the world. This walking safari takes guests through the spectacular Serengeti National Park on foot. It includes vehicle-based game viewing, with a visit to Ngorongoro en route. On day 1, guests depart on safari to Ngorongoro. The drive is interesting and varied – a mix of farmlands, local villages and some spectacular scenery. The night is spent at a lodge on the crater rim, and in the afternoon there is an option to enjoy a walk with a local Masai guide in the area. On day 2, guests descend into the Ngorongoro crater caldera for a jam-packed morning of game viewing, before heading to the open Serengeti plains- mile upon mile of open grassland. They then arrive at either Serengeti Wilderness camp, Ndutu Wilderness Camp or Serengeti North, home for the next two nights. Days 4 and 5 comprise the walking safari in the Serengeti, accompanied by a trained, armed guides. On the final day, guests enjoy a morning walk in the cool of the day, before returning to Arusha. This safari ensures an unforgettable experience in arguably the best known wildlife sanctuary in the world.
Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge
Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge is hidden within the trees bordering the Wami River. The views from the lodge allow guests to watch the local wildlife while enjoying breakfast, lunch and dinner. This 18 stilted suite lodge is a relaxing river retreat on the shore of the Wami River and neighbours Saadani National Park. The camp offers guests a range of activities including game drives and river excursions with the in-house spa providing indulgent massages. The 17 stilted suites of Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge are the epitome of ‘luxury, naturally’, built for rest and relaxation on the southern shore of the Wami River close to the Saadani National Park. The guest tree houses blend into the natural scenery on their stilts with traditional thatched roofs. In addition, for the ultimate secluded escape, River Lodge’s Wami Suite is a private villa with its own infinity pool, two bedrooms and bathrooms, a living room and dining room. Hidden within the lush jungle, this villa is perfect for guests who wish for ultimate relaxation and an intimate environment.
Thendele Lodge, Drakensberg
Thendele is famous for its views of the dramatic Drakensberg mountains, the famous Amphitheatre – a rock wall rising to about 1000 m and stretching out for 5 km- and the Mont-aux-Sources, which is the highest peak of the plateau and backstage of the elevated Amphitheatre. Also within Royal Natal National Park is a source of KwaZulu-Natal‘s largest river and highest waterfall, the Tugela, plus eight other rivers. Thendele Resort is situated in one of the most picturesque settings in the country, with a view of the famous Amphitheatre from every chalet. The lodge offers accommodation for six people. It has three en-suite bedrooms each with two single beds. A kitchen, large living area with fireplace and an outdoor barbecue area are all located centrally. Satellite TV is also available. The most popular activity enjoyed by visitors is hiking. Trout fishing is available in the rivers as well as in the Mahai Dam. Bird watching, picnics and swimming in the rivers are just some of the highlights guests can also expect to experience.
Highlands Mountain Retreat, Golden Gate
Close your eyes and allow your senses to totally relax. Breathe in the crisp, fresh mountain air and slowly allow your eyelids to open. Take in the awesome view of the overlapping mountain range, all the while knowing that you are standing 2200m above sea-level, the only place in South Africa at this height. A great escape for the mind, body and soul… the recently released Highlands Mountain Retreat, is a luxury camp in Golden Gate that has certainly been worth the wait. It is home to eight log cabins nestled in the foothills of Golden Gate, that can accommodate 4 families of 4 each (2 bedrooms each en-suite) and 4 that can accommodate 2 persons each (1 bedroom). each room is cosily furnished, with en-suite bathrooms, private barbecue facilities and a fully-equipped kitchen. The high-altitude chill is easily fended off with a built-in fireplace, underfloor heating, and electric blankets. The spectacular views and stunning natural beauty of the area make this camp a definite must-visit for all.
Samara Karoo Lodge
The Samara Karoo Lodge on the Samara Private Game Reserve is a luxurious camp styled on a traditional Karoo farmhouse. There are thick patios around the entire exterior, offering guests the opportunity of relaxing on a farm porch and soaking up the magic of the Karoo. There are 6 suites in total, accommodating a maximum of 12 guests at a time: 3 Lodge Suites which form part of the main homestead and three Karoo Suites which are hugely spacious independent cottages. The décor is suitably simple and local in theme. Arriving back from a game drive to a freshly run and piping hot bubble bath soothes away any aches and pains. The lodge is quintessentially Karoo in character and the reserve is something special. It covers a huge area of 28 000 hectares and hosts a wide array of habitat types – especially suitable for nature lovers looking for something a bit different. Another highlight is approaching wild cheetah on foot. The adult cheetahs on Samara are collared and guides use telemetry equipment to track the animal’s location on this vast reserve.
White Elephant Safari Lodge
Ideally situated on a gently sloping hillside overlooking the beautiful Lake Jozini and Lebombo Mountains, the elegant White Elephant lodge aptly reflects the history of the reserve through its colonial furnishings and decor. Eight luxurious safari tents are privately positioned within the surrounding bush, each with uninterrupted views of the lake. The luxuriously furnished tents offer a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The tents are not air-conditioned but have overhead fans, and mosquito nets are elegantly draped around the beds at night. The well-appointed common area of the lodge is gracefully finished with spectacular views of the surrounding bushveld. A large, heated rim-flow pool is beautifully positioned in front of the lodge. At night, guests can relax on an outdoor wooden deck around a fireplace while watching the stars. Meals of the highest quality are enjoyed on the spacious undercover verandah of the lodge, around a fire in the boma or, should one wish, privately on their own ‘Sala’ (relaxation areas) in front of their tents.
Sibuya Tented Camps
Arriving to a welcoming reception in the little coastal town of Kenton-on-Sea, guests are led down to the small marina to board an open boat. A gentle cruise up the Kariega River takes you to a cosy tented camp (either Forest or River Camp) tucked away in the riverine vegetation on the banks of the river. En-route you will pass an array of stunning birdlife. The camps are rustic yet comfortable, and the tents offer complete privacy. Most of the furniture has been crafted from wood and adds an authentic touch to your forested environment. There is no electricity in camp but there are enough solar powered lights and lanterns for guests to find their way around the walkways to their tents. The food is satisfying and your personal guide will share his bush experiences and knowledge with you around a camp fire or while dining. River Camp is a family orientated and caters for children of all ages whereas Forest Camp is adults only.
Shayamanzi Houseboats
Shayamanzi River Tours operates two houseboats on South Africa’s fourth largest dam – Lake Jozini. The houseboats have six and ten double rooms respectively, all with huge windows with impressive views on to the water. All rooms are en-suite (however, the toilets and shower areas are relatively small). The smaller boat has electric fans in all rooms, and the larger, more modern boat is fully air-conditioned. These become essential features in the summer months when temperatures rapidly escalate. The upstairs lounge, bar and dining area is a supremely comfortable social zone and provides the base for a jovial time where guests can catch up on sport and news with satellite TV or just laze with a good read. Tender boats ferry guests on boat safaris or on exciting Tiger fishing trips. Various land-based activities can be organised through Shayamanzi’s brother lodge – Shayamoya.
Rhino Walking Safaris
Rhino Walking Safaris’ Plains Camp is a colonial, explorer styled tented camp overlooking the scenic Timbitene plain and waterhole in the central Kruger National Park. The camp is built on raised wooden decks without the use of concrete so as to limit the impact on the land, and to keep in accordance with stringent Kruger Park concession laws. The friendly and efficient staff will make sure guests have an enjoyable and carefree stay. They serve drinks and delicious South African-styled meals. The shaded dining room and lounge are tastefully decorated with antique furniture and accessories with African safari-styled ornaments. The dining and lounge areas, as well as the swimming pool, all have excellent views of the wildlife-rich open area. The four colonial-styled tents accommodate guests in luxury. They are well-accessorised and have en-suite bathrooms. The camp is well spread-out on the bush fringe line, ensuring privacy between the tents.
Pafuri Camp
Pafuri Camp is located in the Makuleke concession in the far north of the Kruger National Park, and is situated on the banks of the perennial Luvuvhu River. This large camp consists of twenty tented suites. Six family units share a common bathroom and an outdoor shower, and fourteen standard suites are en-suite. The camp is spread out over 1.3 km and is linked together by an elevated walkway, so that adequate privacy is offered and the lodge retains a small and intimate camp feel. All tents are suitably furnished and are designed in such a way as to have a minimal impact on the local environment. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff offer friendly and professional service. The main lodge is completely open-air and supremely spacious. Stone walls, rustic thatch and large decks under shady tree canopies perfectly complement the riverine setting.
Nguni River Lodge
Nguni River Lodge is situated on a hilltop overlooking a beautiful open area intersected by a river bed and floodplain below. The camp is truly unique. The eight luxury Nguni tribal themed huts are exquisite and the rooms are spacious and luxuriously furnished. The bath room consists of a circular bath in the middle of the room with two basins, a toilet (with only a curtain dividing the dressing area from the main bedroom) and an outdoor shower with a stunning view. A supremely comfortable open lounge area flows onto a private deck and plunge pool. The main lodge is completely open plan – the fine dining comes with some fresh air. There is an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs in action or even get involved in the cooking themselves. There is a fine bar with a superb selection and for those wishing to have a puff there is a typically colonial ‘cigar bar’.
Makakatana Bay Lodge
Lying in a small natural dune forest dotted with attractive Fever trees, Makakatana is the only private game lodge found on the banks of the famous Lake St Lucia – offering amazing panoramic views of the massive estuary and the surrounding bush. The six luxury suites all have an Eastern and African theme and are positioned on raised platforms linked together by grandiose wooden walkways. All of the spacious suites are air-conditioned and have outdoor showers. Personal service is of utmost importance and guests are treated to delicious meals and superb comfort in the intimate lodge. A special feature of the lodge is the vintage wine cellar situated between the guest rooms and main area. The cellar, with an attached ancient strangler fig and its original ‘Crab House’ crest, is still used to store the lodges excellent selection of wines, however if couples are wanting a private dinner out of the ordinary, they can do so in this historic and surprisingly romantic building. The lodge is equipped with disabled facilities.
Kosi Forest Lodge
Kosi Forest Lodge is a simple yet elegant tented camp in the Kosi Bay Coastal Forest Reserve. The lodge is situated within a community reserve and as such guests will pass quaint rural villages on their way to the forest dwelling. Once in camp the wonderful ambience will have guests feeling truly alive and refreshed right from the get go. The tented suites are appropriately furnished and lazing in the outside hammock during the day is a must. Thin mesh fronts are the only barriers between you and the teeming forest. The atmosphere is very relaxed and runs on African time. The staff are friendly, the service is good and the set menu is delicious. The main lodge is spacious with plenty of relaxation areas and a decent library of books. Pre-dinner drinks around the camp fire sets the tone for jovial evenings of good conversation in the company of nocturnal creatures in and around the camp.
Kalahari Trails
Kalahari Trails is a privately owned nature reserve just outside the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, offering guests affordable self catering accommodation and camping options. Kalahari Trails offers sheltered camping, a self catering cottage, a back packer style guest house and a dune nestled tented camp. The self catering cottage sleeps up to six guests in two bedrooms and is a good choice for a family seeking privacy. The cottage has a well equipped kitchen and outside braai area. The main guesthouse has five rooms and can sleep up to fourteen people comfortably. Three rooms share a bathroom while the other two have these en-suite. There is a communal kitchen, large lounge and dining area and an outdoor braai (barbeque) facility whilst the old house has a large porch, ideal for enjoying al fresco meals or for bird watching. Gas cookers and camping gear is available to rent.
Rio Elefantes Canoe Trail
This three night and four day canoe trail takes place on the Elefantes River that forms the southern border of the Limpopo National Park (the new Mozambique portion of Kruger). The trip starts a few kilometres down stream of the Masingir Dam wall with a maximum of 8 canoeists along with the guide and a camp assistant. Although the game viewing is not like the Zambezi Valley, guests often see elephant and hippo during the course of a canoe trail. The birdlife is fantastic and guests are woken daily by the cry of the Fish Eagle and the wail of Trumpeter Hornbills. During the day one is kept entertained by the aerial antics of kingfishers and bee-eaters. The days are spent gently paddling open top kayaks down stream while being helped along by the current and stopping at the odd sand bank to have a quick dip to cool off. A couple of fishing rods are offered to guests to try their luck at tiger fishing (bring your own if you are a serious fisherman) and although usually smaller fish are caught a few decent fish between 4 and 8 lbs have been recently taken on the river.
!Xaus Lodge, Kgalagadi
!Xaus is situated in the dry and vast Kgalalgadi Transfrontier Park renowned for its abundance of predators and birds of prey. isThis desert lodge owned and run by the local Khomani San and Mier communities, !Xaus (the “!” represents a vocal click in the San language, but can also be pronounced as a K) Lodge blends into the Kalahari landscape and creates a window into the lifestyle of two very friendly cultures. The main lodge and 12 chalets overlook a vast salt pan and into the dune landscape. The camp operates without electricity and is inspired by the surroundings and local crafts. The rooms are a blend of canvas and thatch and offer a comfortable retreat during the stay. The refreshing swimming pool is the ideal place to take a dip to escape the midday heat whilst enjoying over the pan and dunes. !Xaus is a great cultural safari destination in the heart of the Kalahari.
Ants Hill & Ants Nest
Ant’s is a perfect destination for anyone with affection for nature, horses and horse riding. It is a perfect honeymoon destination and great for small groups and families. The 5000 hectare property is a horse lover’s heaven and exploring the reserve on horseback that makes Ant’s truly special. Becoming part of the natural world around you enables riders and horses to wander amongst game such as zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo and if you’re lucky a white rhino. There are no elephant or lion on the reserve which takes away the worry of being on horseback where dangerous game occurs. All levels of riders can be accommodated from beginner to advanced and there are over 60 horses to match any guest’s personality. Highlights of the day are often the sundowner drinks after a hard few hours in the saddle that are set up and waiting for you at a particular point.
The Safari Index 