When travel re-opened, we travelled to some amazing places in Africa. We picked our top destinations that we visited for you to share in the joy and to whet your appetite for travel in the new year.
Paying Homage to Classic East African safari at Jack’s Camp
Africa Travel Expert Stella enjoyed an unforgettable safari adventure at Jack’s Camp – situated in the starkly beautiful Makgadikgadi Pans region of Botswana. She was captivated by iconic wildlife and sleeping under canvas in a classic 1940s safari-style tent adorned with Persian rugs. Stella was spoilt for choice with remarkable game viewing as well as an array of exciting activities, from nature walks with the San bushmen of the Kalahari to quad biking and getting up close and personal with playful meerkats.
My safari at Jack’s Camp was an incredible experience with a unique landscape of rich, vast salt pans and a living desert. I was captivated by iconic wildlife and falling asleep under the classic tent adorned with Persian rugs – so luxurious.
Pristine Protection at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
In the heart of South Africa’s Eastern Cape lies Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, sprawling on either side of the winding Great Fish River. Africa Travel Expert Nikki spent several days there and fell in love with morning Mimosas, guided nature walks and tracking wildlife on thrilling game drives. She visited the Mgcamabele Community Centre that supports and empowers local communities, treated herself to a selection of natural and organic wellness treatments, and got involved in truly bucket-list conservation activities.
You can create unforgettable memories here as you connect with Mother Nature on guided nature walks and track wildlife on thrilling game drives. The ranger and tracker teams are knowledgeable and fun and went out of their way to tick off my bucket list – Dave and Sukhi are the best!
A trio of adventures
Africa Travel Expert Rhynhardt enjoyed three incredible experiences at Sanctuary Mandela in Johannesburg, the Shalati Train on the Bridge at Skukuza in the Kruger National Park and Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, on a private concession. It was an incredible opportunity and privilege for him to step back in time and stay at Sanctuary Mandela, the home where icon and former president Nelson Mandela lived after his release from prison. Unique experiences followed at the newly-opened Shalati Train on the Bridge at Skukuza in the world-renowned Kruger National Park and Lion Sands Tinga Lodge on the exclusive Sabie River. He watched animals congregating at the water’s edge and spotted rosette leopards, well known for their sightings here.
I have been lucky enough to experience many safaris during my career in the travel industry. But what a treat to sleep in a beautifully appointed train carriage while on safari.
Immersed in the Heart of Africa at Zambezi Grande
An incredible experience awaited Africa Travel Expert Tanya at the Zambezi Grande in the Lower Zambezi in Zambia. This haven entices one to rejuvenate, reconnect and return to nature and the wild – and that’s just what she did. Sinking into serenity while relaxing on the sunny pool deck, indulging in nurturing wellness treatments, gliding down the river on a sundowner cruise and simply absorbing the beauty of the wild, watching animals passing by from her terrace. Absolute bliss.
One of the highlights was waking up to the spectacular view of the sunrise over the Zambezi River while listening to the birds chirping and hippos grunting.
Treated like royalty on the Zambezi Queene and at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge
Social Media specialist Nokulunga revelled in luxury aboard the Zambezi Queen as it cruised down the Chobe River and enjoyed a land experience at Impalila Island’s Ichingo Chobe River Lodge, a quiet, secluded haven. She loved how every day was different as she could choose from a number of fun activities such as birding, fishing and a river safari. Her stay at the lodge was also memorable. From the personalized service to the surprise lunch on the sandbank – it was the highlight of her trip!
I loved that I could decide if I wanted to be up with the birds or laze around all morning watching game from the comfort of my bed. Guests have the flexibility to choose just how much they want to pack into their holiday or how relaxed they want to be.
Ultimate safari under canvas at Pafuri Tented Camp
Located in a remote northern corner of the famed Kruger National Park, Giltedge CEO Murray explored Pafuri Tented Camp, a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. He explored the diverse terrain on foot, discovering the intricacies of the bush and tracked the Big Five in a safari vehicle. Avid birders will love the opportunity to see the rare Pel’s fishing owl and a large variety of bird species. He watched animals quenching their thirst from his tent in the Luvuvhu River and enjoyed al-fresco dining under a star-studded sky.
Animals wander through the camp to drink at the Luvuvhu River; they often pass directly under the boardwalks, bringing you literally within touching distance!
Chat to an expert consultant and start planning your tailor-made holiday.