Impodimo Game Lodge

Impodimo Game Lodge is set on a rocky ridge overlooking the vistas within the magnificent malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve of the North West Province of South Africa.

Rise in the morning to an African dawn and enjoy an early morning game drive with your dedicated professional ranger and tracker. Relax as your ranger guides you through the bush on a custom made open Land Rover searching out the secrets of nature. In the afternoon, when the heat of the African sun has diminished and the shadows are longer, head out on a sundowner safari to watch the sun set on this bushveld paradise and go in search of the more nocturnal creatures that now rule the bush.

Set out on a bush walk with your armed ranger and learn the art of tracking African game, enjoy the trees, birds and stunning scenery.

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.

Kasane lodge up for sale – reports

The Bridgetown Lodge in Kasane is up for sale to a South African company for P95 million (R131 million), according to a report by investigative journalism arm, amaBhungane, published in Daily Maverick.

The report suggests that investors in the lodge, developed by former Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Patrick Balopi, have not been paid the rentals they were promised. Balopi has sold his shares.

Owner Ahmad Mansur Sidiqui, is quoted as saying he has invested P24 million (R33 million) in the lodge and is selling his stake because the business is “going down”. According to the report, the lodge’s occupancy has never exceeded 32%.

The Bridgetown Lodge is well located for attractions such as the Chobe Game Reserve, the Victoria Falls and the flood plains of the Zambezi. It comprises 36 rooms and facilities include a restaurant and bar.