The Ancient Fish River Canyon

Fish River Lodge in southern Namibia is the only lodge perched directly on the rim of the Fish River Canyon offering guests breathtaking views of the canyon from sunrise to sunset. Experience first hand the geological forces that unfolded 300 million years ago, when the Fish River began to etch its way through hard quartzite forming a Canyon 90 km long, making it the world's second largest Canyon. Set in a grove of ancient Quiver trees (Aloe dichotoma), the Lodge has been carefully designed to echo the terraced and rugged terrain as well as the colours and textures of the landscape thereby offering guests a pleasant change from the typical 'safari' type lodge found elsewhere in Africa. There is a blend of classical and contemporary furnishings and many of the accessories have been made by San and Nama communities whose ancestors once roamed the terrain; authenticity, comfort and simplicity are key to the Lodge's unique ambiance.

Tautona Lodge - Botswana

Tautona Lodge is a private game reserve located 5 minutes from the town Ghanzi, Ghanzi is a town in the western part of the Republic of Botswana in Southern Africa. The lodge is situated on a private reserve in the Kalahari with an abundance of wildlife including Eland, Oryx, Giraffe, Zebra, Impala, Ostrich, and Kudu as well as an extensive variety of bird life. Tautona Lodge offers luxury but affordable accommodation to holiday makers as well as the many business people that frequently visit Ghanzi. Secluded and tranquil with Waterbuck and Eland that graze peacefully amongst the chalets.. For your enjoyment the amenities at the lodge include an excellent a la carte restaurant, sports bar, pool table, table tennis, darts, swimming pool and open air deck

1xLuxury Family Chalet

Double story thatched stone building comprises of 1 Double en-suite bedroom, 2 twin rooms sharing a bathroom. Dining area, TV lounge and kitchenette with a private veranda and an outside BBQ area.

7 X DOUBLE MINI CHALETS & 1 X TWIN MINI CHALET

Thatched stone building comprises of an en-suite bedroom with a TV and tea and coffee making facilities…

DOUBLE / TWIN CHALETS

Thatched stone building comprises of 1 x Double / Twin en-suite bedroom. TV lounge with a kitchenette.

4 X TENTED ACCOMMODATION

Luxury Tents with twin beds and en-suite bathroom and BBQ facilities situated in the campsite.

Tautona Campsite

Tautona Campsite is 5min drive from the Main lodge. The campsites are set beneath the shade of thorn trees. Guests can enjoy a true bush experience under the Kalahari sky. The campsite facilities include electricity an ablution block with a double set of "flush" toilets, showers with hot and cold running water and a communal sink for washing dishes. The Boma and Lapa is available especially for the rainy days. Guests are welcome to enjoy Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner at Tautona Lodge Ala Carte Restaurant and have sundowners at the Pub. 

Explore the Okavango Delta

Considered one of Africa's masterpieces, the Okavango Delta offers and insight into one of Africa's truly great wildernesses. A World Heritage Site, this vast and virtually untouched freshwater wetland lies at the heart for Botswana's arid Kalahari yet supports an abundance of wildlife within a setting of dazzling natural beauty!

Highlights of the Okavango Delta:
The variety of flora and fauna means excellent game viewing year round
With such a profusion of life, predators in the form of lion, leopard, cheetah, hyaena and wild dog abound
Mokoro excursions offer an authentic and unobtrusive insight into this incredible wetland paradise

Okavango Delta Accommodation:

Camp Okavango
Eagle Island Lodge
Guma Lagoon Camp
Gunns Camp
Kana Kara Camp

For more accommodation please visit our website:
 www.botswana-reservations.com

Rebuilt Wellness Facilities for Toka Leya Camp

Wilderness Safaris’ Toka Leya Camp, near Livingstone in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, has upgraded the wellness area and added a traditional Zambian massage to its spa menu. The new treatment can be enjoyed in the rebuilt spa or on guests’ private decks.

The wellness area has a separate spa treatment room with outdoor decking overlooking the Zambezi River, and a fitness room. The new spa treatment, Ukuchina, is an age-old massage technique that involves deep tissue massage using warm cloths on the body.

Toka Leya has 12 safari-style tents and an infinity pool.

Cheetah's in Botswana

Cheetah's are found throughout the wilderness areas of Botswana - even in the arid reaches of the Kalahari.

Best places to see them:
Chitabe in the Okavango Delta, Linyanti (in particular Kwando).

Cheetah have one of the highest success rates when it comes to hunting but of all the predators they are the most likely to have the kill stolen away. They have to eat very quickly once they have killed as other predators are quickly on the scene. Vultures have been known to steal kills from Cheetah.

Personal observations of Cheetah hunts reveal varying methodsof operation. A family group of a mother and her five offspring in the Savute Marsh would often use a flanking manoeuvre during a hunt.

Two individuals would flank a herd of Antelope before revealing themselves in a half hearted chase. The prey would scatter in all directions with at least one heading in the direction where the other three were waiting in ambush.

Although Cheetah rely on speed during a chase a great deal of patience and stalking goes into a hunt. During a chase prey is knocked to the ground in mid stride after which the cheetah suffocates the prey by clamping its jaws on the victim's air pipe.
Cheetah are susceptible to competition from other predators and are the first to move away from an area when competition gets too much. The previously mentioned group of Cheetah in the Savute eventually moved out of the area when Hyenas continually stole their kills.

The Hyenas developed the habit of following the group on a hunt and when a kill was made would move in immediately and steal the food.

Safari top the list for family holidays

Safari was by far the most popular family activity in the region, followed by adventure and beach activities. “Wildlife, ecology or bush experiences shared by the entire family are the most popular,” said Christian Grosch, MD of Airboat Afrika.

“Safari is an amazing way to gather the family together and create the experience of lifetime,” said Margie Jordan of US-based Jordan Executive Travel Service. She pointed out that in Southern Africa, families could secure an entire safari lodge.

Top destinations

1.Cape Town and the Western Cape

Cape Town came out as the top destination for families in Southern Africa. The Garden Route was noted for family-friendly options including Ostrich Safari Farm in Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves, Featherbed Nature Reserve, Birds of Eden and Monkeyland.

2.South Africa

it is well-suited to self-drive holidays. Suggested that the availability of self-catering accommodation options positioned the country well for families.

3.KwaZulu Natal

The warm beaches in KwaZulu Natal were seen as a draw card for families, while uShaka Marine World in Durban was seen as must visit for families. The South Coast region in particular was described as a great family destination because of the many guest lodges, camping grounds and beach activities available. 

4.Botswana

“Botswana is definitely experiencing an increase in family travel,” said Walter Smith, MD of Desert & Delta Safaris.

Botswana offers Mother Nature's natural highlights with ease and authenticity. Small exclusive camps or lodges, private guides and activities focused on real natural experiences.”

5.Other highlights

Namibia was highlighted for the desert activities on offer.

Zim-Zam: Two new hotels for Kenneth Kaunda airport

Zambia Airports Corporation is set to identify a hotel chain to run two hotels that are being built at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Lusaka, as part of a $360 million expansion project of the airport.

According to Communications and Brand Manager, Mweembe Sikaulu, a viable investor will be identified to run the two hotels.

“The in-transit hotel, which will be housed within the airport terminal, will have 30 rooms, while outside the terminal, a second hotel will offer 70 rooms,” said Sikaulu, adding that construction was anticipated to be completed in 2019 along with the expansion of the airport.

She said the transit hotel would operate as a three-star facility while the 70-room hotel would be built as a five-star facility with conferencing rooms.

The new Chinese-funded airport is being built in the shape of an eagle, the Zambian national bird.

Kenneth Kaunda Airport currently handles two million passengers and is the gateway to Zambia.

New activities for the whole family

 

Paddling in the mangroves

Machangulo Beach Lodge in Mozambique recently added stand-up paddle boards to its repertoire of water sports. This is a fun activity that the entire family can enjoy, combining it with a snorkelling picnic or a dhow sailing cruise. The mangrove forests near the lodge are an idyllic location to explore on the paddle boards. The lodge is reached by boat transfer from Maputo to the Santa Maria Peninsula.

Horse ride and picnic

A new activity for families at Legend Golf & Safari Resort and in the Entabeni Safari Conservancy in the Waterberg is horse riding. Two packages are on offer, combining a one- or two-hour ride with a picnic lunch. Rides are accompanied by a trained guide.

Berries and ‘buses’ on the Garden Route

At Fancourt, on the Garden Route in the Western Cape, eco-friendly tours are available on the recently introduced Eco-Rider, a two-wheeled battery-powered machine, with the ability to clamber over all types of terrain on the golfing estate. The activity is already popular with families, and is done under the guidance of a local guide. A day trip on the Outeniqua Power Van, a rail bus travelling from the Outeniqua Transport Museum through one of the most scenic routes in George against the backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountain, is another novel means of exploring the beauty of the Garden Route. Nearby, and ideal for families, is Redberry Farm for some strawberry picking. Visitors can also explore the large hedge maze, relax in the onsite tea garden, purchase home-made delicacies from the farm stall, while children enjoy mini train rides, bumper boats, and pony rides. Teenagers and younger children can socialise in the Teens Lounge or Kidz Club. Even babies are given special care at Fancourt, receiving their branded soft towels and face cloths.

Picking up bush skills

A meaningful conservation experience is now on offer in a remote corner at Gondwana Game Reserve on the Garden Route, where a tented eco camp has been established for 10 people in five tents. It comes with private staff who see to catering and tent service, and a dedicated field guide and vehicle for the duration of the stay. A six-day/five-night stay option enables guests to participate in wildlife and veld management, learn bush skills and volunteer in the local community. There are also specific weeks where a family programme is hosted. Says owner, Mark Rutherford: “They ensure the activities are not too long or too strenuous for the little ones, to keep them motivated and happy. Family projects are developed for all age groups to be able to actively participate. While the regular, more adult programme (16 years and up) brings in elements of wildlife monitoring and research, for the younger crowd they will substitute this with activities like fishing, treasure hunts and nature craft to keep it fun and interactive.” The reserve has the Big Five species, and is blanketed in fynbos.

Cape Town SPECIAL

Table Mountain

 Table Mountain is the most iconic landmark of South Africa.

It is also the country’s most photographed attraction and its famous cable car took millions of people to its top.

 

Table Mountain has become the single most welcoming icon to not only our people, but travellers from all over the world.

 

But this mountain hides many surprises that wait to be discovered.

 

Besides the parks, the whole area has a biodiversity that is rare to find in other places on earth. Its many valleys and streams make it an idyllic getaway from Cape Town. The national park’s most unique feature is its "fynbos" vegetation that is displayed here better than anywhere in the world.

 

Seven Wonders of Botswana

What are the Wonders of Botswana?  

 Botswana is home to one of Africa's Seven Wonders of Nature, but that is only a start to the wonders this country offers. Botswana is truly an African gem for encounters with nature, but the country is also rich in culture and heritage.

Okovango Delta 

Okovango Delta is the largest inland delta in the world formed from the Okavango River’s tectonic drain. The delta has almost 11 cubic kilometers of water spreading over its area of almost 15,000 square kilometers. Okavango Delta is rich in wildlife and provides an opportunity to see the Big 5. 

 

Kubu Island

 

 Kubu Island is made up of dry granite rocks situated in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pan. Kubu Island is a national monument and a consecrated place for the indigenous people. Kubu actually means large rock, but can also mean hippopotamus in Tswana.

 Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is one of Botswana’s national parks. The park’s name was taken from the BaTawana tribe’s chief, Chief Moremi. It is one of Botswana's wildlife viewing gems.

Tuli Block

This narrow border of Botswana lies in between Zimbabwe and South Africa. Tuli Block is known because of its geographical features such as the Solomon’s Wall and Lepokoe Hills. This piece of land features beautiful rock formations, abundant wildlife, strange vegetation and of course, a rich archaeological heritage.

Tsodilo Hills

The Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has exceptional spiritual and religious connection to locals. Tsodilo Hills traces human settlement over hundreds of decades. The hills features rock paintings of more than 4,500 within its 10 square kilometer area.

Devil's Pool - Victoria Falls

Devil's Pool at Victoria Falls

Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls will soon be closing for the season due to the high water levels. However, we can offer tourists alternate activities. 

Shane White, Chief Marketing Officer at Wild Horizons said Devil’s Pool is closing due to the fact that the river has risen to a level whereby it is no longer possible to swim in the pool.

The  Alternative Angle's Pool becomes available over this time of year.

The Hide Safari Camp

The Hide Safari Camp is the product of our passion for nature in general, and Hwange National Park in particular. Built in 1992 by the Preston family, who remain deeply involved to this day, The Hide Safari Camp has earned its reputation as a consummate safari destination, for both the exceptional wildlife experience and the hospitality it offers.

Ten beautiful tented suites with views over the waterhole, where animals congregate day and night. Between game drives and walks in the National Park, there is plenty of time to relax in a comfortable lounge or sit quietly in a hide to watch the wildlife. After meals all together around a giant table or al fresco under the Acacia trees, you can spend a lazy afternoon by the plunge pool or in the shade of your veranda.

At The Hide they are passionate about nature; they have built on their superb location and extensive knowledge of the park with the best expert guides so that you can experience the true wilderness and wildlife Hwange has to offer. Whether on a drive to one of Hwange’s game-rich pans, on foot within our private concession or sleeping out in the Dove’s Nest, there is never a dull moment. In fact, the waterhole just metres from The Hide attracts such a variety of life that you may not need to roam far from your veranda to be a part of the action.

For more information please contact us at
info@zimbabwe-reservations.com
 www.zimbabwe-reservations.com

Natural Mystic Lodge

Comfort and Nature

Located on the Zambezi River, offers a unique vacation experience for every travel adventurer. Visitors can gaze at the mighty Zambezi as it flows over the edge of the gorge. Victoria Falls is the world's largest curtain of falling water, although its fame has spread far and wide, the magic of the site has been preserved for all to come and see.Families are welcome and will find plenty of activities for all ages. offers travel experiences destined to become lifetime of memories.

Bar and Restaurant
riverfront bar and restaurant is ideal for viewing those beautiful African skies. Great place for sundowners.

Activities
Visit the breathtaking Victoria Falls on a guided tour or explore the falls yourself.Take a day trip to Botswana to see Chobe National Park, which is only an hour away from. Learn the culture and history of the area at The Livingstone Museum and The Railway Museum. Enjoy the crocodile park and snake farm.

 
Natural Mystic Lodge is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, facing Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe. We are located 20 km from Livingstone Town "Adventure Capital" of Zambia on the Nakatindi Road (M10). Only 30 km from the spectacular Victoria Falls, and 50 km from the Kazungula border connecting Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.

Kwetsani Camp

 

Located in the centre of the Jao Concession, Kwetsani Camp is situated on an elongated island covered with palm, mangosteen and fig trees. The surrounding floodplains are home to a number of “Delta specials” – species that are found in few other places on Earth. Some of these may even be seen from the privacy of one of our five “tree-house” chalets, beautifully furnished en-suite units each comprising a bedroom and lounge, and made of canvas, wood and glass.

The raised dining room, lounge and bar area, from where sweeping vistas of the surrounding floodplains stretch to the horizon, often catches the gentle breeze blowing across the waving reeds. A plunge pool with loungers is just right for those sunny afternoon siestas.

 

 

 

For more information please contact us at 

 res@botswana-reservations.com

 www.botswana-reservations.com

Holidays in Zambia

  

Zambia is a remarkably beautiful inland country, home to the largest waterfall in the world and teeming with wildlife (a third of the land is national parks and game reserves). It is currently touted as the place for safaris, offering a rawer, and hence great possibilities for truly memorable family holidays.
 

Stay in the nearby town of Livingstone. Livingstone Museum is filled to the brim with the missionary and explorer's memorabilia and anthropological exhibits, and there's a handful of luxury hotels.

Experience the Zambia's premier tributary, the Zambezi – though Africa's fourth largest river,Thrill-seeking activities on offer here including white-water rafting, river boarding, bungee jumping and canoe safaris.

See Africa's big five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo) but also Zambia's incredible bird life; Lochivar in the south is a prime bird sanctuary. 

For more information please contact us at 

res@zambia-reservations.com
www.zambia-reservations.com