Maboneng Precinct, Johannesburg

Located in the eastern part of Johannesburg’s former CBD, this brand new artsy area is one of several being created to uplift the industrialized city centre.Maboneng means “Place of Light” in Sotho, and it has become just that, a creative hub for artists and designers that includes a cultural entertainment centre called Arts on Main, where residents and visitors come to eat, play and shop.

Its home to numerous art galleries, advertising agencies, shops and private studios.

 

 

Accomodation:

Stay in the heart of Johannesburg
This design hotel offers rooms decorated by some of famous South African artists and designers, and a gym offering massages.

 

Dining:

 Eating out in the Precinct provides a wonderful culinary experience from contemporary Mediterranean to Ethiopian – African Sushi to Modern African township food, coffee shops and street food.

 

Restaurants along the Maboneng Precinct are sure to spoil you with some of the finest cuisine in town

For more information please contact us at 

info@southern-africa-travel.com

www.southern-africa-travel.com

The Fascinating Elephant Sands Lodge Botswana

Elephant Sands is a bush lodge & campsite in the north-eastern part of Botswana. Come and enjoy viewing the elephants at our natural waterhole right in front of the lodge. Watch these impressive creatures whilst they drink at only a couple of meters away from you, a unique experience!

 located in the centre of Botswana’s highlights, such as: the Makgadikgadi pans, the Okavango delta and Chobe National Park. Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park are on our doorstep so to speak.
 The lodge is a great starting point for a tour along all these places of interest.

Accommodation

 Stay in one of our 14 en suite Chalets or pitch your own tent and experience the serenity and peacefulness of the real African bush.

 Activities

Bush Braai

Enjoy a delicious hearty meal prepared for you by our wonderful chef on the open fire. Depart in the late afternoon on a game drive to the braai site. Witness the beauty of the bush as day turns into night.

 Bush Walk
Learn about the fascinating uses of native plants and find out how to identify animal tracks. On foot you will smell, hear, see, feel and experience the bush in a unique way!

Elephant Sands, where elephants rule...

For more information please contact us at 

 info@botswana-reservations.com

www.botswana-reservations.com

Landscapes in South Africa

South Africa is filled with rolling mountains, beautiful rivers and oceans, and stunning vistas which all contribute to a variety of lovely landscapes.

1.Motlatse Canyon

On the border of the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo you find beautiful natural wonders like 'God's Window' and the Blyde River Canyon (also known as the Motlatse Canyon), one of the largest in the world.

2.Camdeboo National Park & Valley of Desolation 

Inland, in the Karoo region, we find the Camdeboo National Park and the spectacular Valley of Desolation, which draws visiters from across the world. These formations are said to have been caused by hundreds of thousands of years of volcanic activity and erosive forces. 

3. Majestic mountains

The southern-most province in South Africa is the Western Cape, home to majestic mountains like Table Mountain and natural wonders like Cape Point. Towards Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, you'll find Grootvadersbosch, an area known for its beautiful nature trails, fantastic bird-watching opportunities and indigenous forest.

Drakensberg mountain 

The spectacular Drakensberg mountain range falls within the province of KwaZulu-Natal and forms part of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its scenic beauty, rock art and diverse flora and fauna.

For more information please contact us at 

info@southern-africa-travel.com 

www.southern-africa-travel.com

The Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park is the second-largest game reserve in Africa and the largest in South Africa.South Africa's most exciting African safari destination. Steeped in legend and history, the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is waiting for you to explore its vast landscapes and spectacular African wildlife.

1. Essence of the Traditional Kruger Park Classic Lodge Safari

Experience the hospitality and culture of the indigenous Tsonga people whilst staying in 'traditional' style bee-hive Tsonga huts finished with fabrics, décor and art produced by the local Tsonga community. This 3 day Kruger Park classic lodge vacation package will guarantee sightings of Elephant from the lodge, as it is situated on an ancient Elephant route.

After a day of Big Five game-viewing, you can enjoy

aromatherapy massages, Indian head massage or a foot massage in the spa. This is also a bird-watching haven and is close to the only golf course in Kruger Park where you will might share the course with Warthog or Giraffe.

Take a journey of exploration to find Africa's Big Five:Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo, you will discover unique wildlife on a real safari in Africa.

2.Kruger Park Honeymoon Packages

Setting out on life's greatest journey together is an exciting moment, and there is no better way to start out than in the African wilderness. These selected Kruger Park honeymoon packages each offer something different. You can choose between sheer opulence, closeness to nature or tranquil seclusion. To add to the occasion you can indulge in spa treatments, champagne baths or fireside romance.

3.Kruger Park Family Safari Holiday 

Ideal for introducing nature to your kids, this 3 day safari will keep curious, young minds occupied. Children older than twelve can even accompany your walking safari with an expert safari guide who can 'show-and-tell' more exciting stuff than can be seen on TV, giving them plenty to talk about when they get back to school.

Relax and rely on the skills of your expert game rangers, who will take you on an adventure of game viewing and bush walking safaris, tracking wildlife.

There are also other fabulous activities in the surrounding areas that will enhance your experience.How about a majestic hot air balloon flight? These are real once in a lifetime experiences!

For more information please contact us at:

info@southern-africa-travel.com

www.southern-africa-travel.com

Wildlife in Botswana

 

The Republic of Botswana is a flat, landlocked country in Southern Africa, 70% of which is covered by the Kalahari Desert. This semi-desert supports more wildlife than a true desert because it offers huge tracts of grasslands for grazing after rains. Besides desert, Botswana has deltas, rivers, grasslands, and savannas.In terms of wildlife, there is a great amount of diversity in Botswana. One of the few remaining endangered African wild dog population and one of the biggest concentrations of African elephants on the planet both call Botswana home. And, the famous Chobe National Park features four ecosystems with the largest wildlife concentration in all of Africa.

 

1.Ostrich

The world's largest living bird occurs throughout Botswana, from the wetlands of the Okavango to the arid reaches of the Central Kalahari.

 

2.Vultures

There are eight species of vulture in Africa of which five are found in Botswana namely Hooded, White-backed, Lappet-faced, White headed and Cape Griffon. Very rare sightings of the Egyptian Vulture have been recorded. Vultures are often the first to arrive at a carcass after a kill or the first to pick up a dead animal. One of the defining images of Africa is that of vultures sitting in trees waiting for a predator to finish feeding.

3. Eland

The world's largest antelope was once widespread across Africa but is now only found in protected areas. Eland herds vary in size although they are known to concentrate in numbers around food sources. There is a hierarchical system with males but unlike other antelope do not defend territories.

 

4.Hippo

The deep grunting of Hippo is one of Africa's characteristic sounds and most people who have been on an African safari will have heard the sound. Although they are grazers Hippos are blessed with massive teeth that are used in territorial fights and displays. These teeth are also used to defend territories from humans.

5. Elephant

Botswana, the Okavango Delta in particular, is where the original Elephant-back safaris started. Today the herd is almost 30 strong with a number having been released back into the wild.

 

For more information please contact us at

 info@botswana-reservations.com

www.botswana-rservations.com

The safari lodge on the rocks

Big Cave Camp

Big Cave Camp reposes atop an enormous granite whaleback, commanding inspirational views across the famous Matobo National Park. Sophisticated African architecture incorporates colossal boulders into a luxuriously appointed thatched lodge positioned amidst ancient Khoisan rock art.

Accommodation

Set on top of a huge granite ridge (kopje) and accessible only by 4x4, Big Cave Camp is the ideal getaway suitable for all travellers. From families to adventure seekers to honeymooners

 Facilities

 natural rock pool and sundeck is a cool contrast to the warm granites that surround the pool. Refuge can also be taken at midday in the nearby pool boma area where ice cold drinks are served.

 At sundown the cave-style boma is illuminated by lanterns as guests sit around a traditional fire while recounting stories of the days activities.

 Activities

 From history, culture in the Matobo Hills, guests have a wide variety of activities to choose from, all accompanied by a qualified guide.

Game Viewing & Rhino Tracking

 Rhodes Grave/World's View
Mountain Biking & Adventure Races

Yoga & Wellness

Cultural Activities

 Bird Watching 

  

Find solitude within an intimate retreat as secluded as the original Kalanga grain bins that nestle amongst the rocks. 

For more information please contact as at:

 zimbabwe-reservations.com

www.zimbabwe-reservations.com

Kilimanjaro: Africa’s Highest Mountain

Africa is home to thousands of mountain ranges which can be climbed and summited in a day and without too much fuss; Mount Kilimanjaro however, is not one of them and requires a huge amount of training, mental determination, physical endurance and planning.t is Africa’s highest peak as well as the tallest free standing mountain in the world and is not for the faint of heart. It also however an astonishingly beautiful and unique beacon to climb, offering the most extensive views of Africa and a unique environment which only the bravest of travellers will ever have the pleasure of enjoying.

It is unknown where the name “Kilimanjaro” comes from however it is believed to mean “Mountain of Light” or “Mountain of Greatness”; meanings that are quite possible when the vast scale and magnitude of the mountain if seen by the naked eye. Regardless however, it is an astonishing symbol of the compelling beauty of Africa.Kilimanjaro stands proud at 5, 895m above sea-level. It is composed of three volcanic cones, the tallest of which is Kibo, the only one of the three volcanoes that is not dormant, where hikers can ascend to Uhuru Peak, or Gillman’s Peak, the highest point on the crater’s rim. It also has 2.2 square kilometres of glacial ice that is quickly melting due to global warming; it’s believed that the mountain might be completely ice free in 20 years’ time – dramatically affecting the crop irrigation, local drinking water and even hydroelectric power in the local area.

                                                                      

The Kilimanjaro National Park surrounds the mountain and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 756 square kilometres, this is one of the only places on Earth that every ecological life from can be seen, including savannah, tropical jungle, to desert and montane forests, subalpine and alpine.Climbing Kilimanjaro is an incredible experience and a true accomplishment to achieve. With right amount of determination, many tourists and locals have made their way to the summit and flown their flags next to the submit post. While the climb doesn’t require hard core equipment, a good level of fitness is essential to ensure that you make it to the top and have an enjoyable way there.

 An exhilarating experience unlike any other and a truly inspiring and empowering achievement, climbing Kilimanjaro is an adventure every tourist going on African travels should consider enjoying. While it takes preparation, courage and mental strength, you’ll have an unforgettable time and will accumulate unique and exciting stories to tell. See staggering views, enjoy each of the world’s ecosystems in just seven days and outdo yourself with this uplifting triumph.

For more information please contact us at: 

info@southern-africa-travel.com

www.southern-africa-travel.com

Style,Sophistication and Scenery

Places to see in Zambia

The Taita Falcon Lodge

Located just 11km from the world-famous Victoria Falls and perched on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, high above the mighty Zambezi River, 230 metres below, the exclusive Taita Falcon Lodge provides a unique location and offers its guests a wonderful bush experience, amidst beautiful surroundings. A unique departure from typical hotel fare, the lodge’s focus is on quality and providing guests with a unique and unforgettable African experience. An ideal beginning or ending to your African Safari. 

Accommodation:

Taita Falcon Lodge offers delightful en-suite chalets, constructed using naturally occurring materials from the surrounding area, giving a taste of authenticity without compromising on comfort.

Taita Falcon Lodge provides a perfect haven for relaxing in a luxurious, yet friendly environment.

Things to do:

white-water rafting, scenic flights over the Falls, elephant-back, horse-back, walking or riverboat safaris, abseiling, bungee-jumping.
You can simply relax, with your feet up beside our pool, on the viewing deck or in your own private sun garden.

Enjoy fine dining at the Restaurant while enjoying the view of the natural surrounds.

For more information please conatct us at 

res@zambia-reservations.com

www.zambia-reservations.com

Beautiful Parts of South Africa

De Hoop Nature Reserve

This beautiful reserve is a favourite for hikers,cyclists and bird watchers.De Hoop has one of the best hiking trails in South Africa: the Whale Trail, this route offers coastal and mountain walking,with spectacular views.

 Activities:

• Mountain Biking & cycling

Mountain bikers are encouraged to explore the magnificent terrain, which sustains part of the world’s smallest and most threatened plant kingdom – the Cape Floral Kingdom. Close-up encounters with bontebok, Cape mountain zebra, eland, red hartebeest, baboons and ostrich are a highlight. A qualified field guide will share his knowledge of less obvious natural and historical aspects of De Hoop.

• Whale Watching

 Every year, some 40% of the world’s southern right whales come to these shores to breed. Females and their calves swim in the clear waters, while males put on spectacular displays. These endangered mammals ensure that the De Hoop Reserve in South Africa, is one of the world’s best land based whale watching areas

 

• Star Gazing & Identification

Experience the magnificent stars and constellations that the clear De Hoop night sky has to offer.Learn about the various star signs and other interesting facts about the sky.

 

Accommodation:
 
Self-catering or luxury accommodation in one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa.  The De Hoop Collection offers a wide range of accommodation. From camping and caravanning sites and affordable self-catering chalets to more luxurious self-catering cottages and upmarket fully catered lodges
 Care for Nature:

• Biodiversity
• Kids Zone

For more information please contact us at  

info@southern-africa-travel.com

www.southern-africa-travel.com