Go Wild on a Family Safari

New Children’s Retreat in Botswana

Reopening just in time for the high season, the newly refurbished Sanctuary Chief’s Camp will have its own dedicated kid’s area, designed with children aged six upwards in mind. The area includes a fancy dress corner and a nature table, where guides are on hand to help young guests identify wildlife by their droppings. There’s even an entertainment zone for kids aged 11+ complete with PlayStation and table football. So there’s no chance that your little animals will get bored once the excitement of the morning’s predator safari game drive is over.

Make tracks to South Africa

Where better to spot the ‘Big Five’ than with a visit to the malaria-free, wildlife-rich Madikwe Game Reserve. Renowned for offering children the quintessential African safari experience, one of the main draws of the Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge is its Junior Ranger Course offered to children 12 and over (children of all ages are welcome when the lodge is booked exclusively). Here your mini Bear Grylls will learn survival, tracking and orientation skills whilst the rangers help instil an appreciation of why conservation is vital to preserve the African plains and the creatures who call them home.

Star gazing in Zambia

Overlooking the game-filled valleys of South Luangwa National Park, the historic hilltop Sanctuary Chichele Presidential Lodge has thought of everything to encourage younger guests to embrace its stunning natural surroundings. Activities at the one-time holiday haven of Zambia’s first president range from crafting papier maché African masks and elephant dung paper to making a camp fire around which your little angels can admire the night sky with marshmallows and a warming cup of hot chocolate.

Reconnect with Mother Nature

What better way to encourage your children’s spirit of adventure than with a child-friendly treasure hunt. Let them search for hidden clues and then collect indigenous flora on a guided walking safari within the spectacular grounds.  At Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero families can venture into the heart of the Botswana bush on especially shortened game drives.  Then, after returning to your new riverside home, there’s plenty of time for the kids to indulge in a pizza-making session with the lodge’s Chef whilst you wallow in the luxurious split-level pool.

Treehouse memories to treasure

Hoping to combine quality family time with the ultimate in luxury safaris? If so, our Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma may have just the answer. With 12 treehouses connected by wooden walkways, and two exclusive family houses, each with their own private vehicle, chef and plunge pool, this boutique Zambezi lodge is just 7 miles from Victoria Falls yet feels a million miles from reality. As the sun sets on this special place, why not enjoy a relaxing sundowner cruise, leaving the kids mesmerised by the guides’ tales of African explorers round the camp fire.

Incredible Must See Destinations in Southern Africa

On a planet filled with so many interesting and exotic places to visit, you might ask, "Why southern Africa? What draws people to this part of the world?" The truth is, many travelers don't really know that much about southern Africa at all. This region encompasses a number of countries including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and more. Many travelers who visit this area are amazed at the diversity and beauty that is to be found here.

Some of the  top destinations in Southern Africa in no particular order....

The Garden Route 

Lies on the southern coast just east of Cape Town and extends from Mossel Bay to the Storms River mouth.  Here you will find Tsitsikamma National Park, the Knysna and Wilderness wetlands, relaxing beaches, hiking trails, and activities such as whale watching, sailing, and golf. This scenic coastal route is interspersed with a series of quaint and charming towns along the way. The climate is mild and the views are spectacular. The Cango Caves, are located just north of the Garden Route close to Oudtshoorn, which is also the center of the South Africa ostrich farming industry. Many of the farms are open to visitors where you can tour the facilities, meet the birds up close, and even ride one! The Garden Route is a serene and beautiful part of South Africa, filled with astounding sights and plenty to do for both young and old.

The Okavango Delta 

For the more adventurous at heart the Okavango Delta, located in northern Botswana, is a veritable oasis of wildlife and natural wonder. This area is the world's largest inland delta, formed by the Okavango River. With numerous lodges in this region, there is plenty to do. While in the Okavango a mokoro boat trip is a must. On a mokoro trip experienced guides lead you through the Delta as you silently glide down the channels and backwaters to places that are totally unreachable by any other mode of transport. Coming face to face with elephants crossing the waterways or herds of buffalos drinking from the Delta is nothing unusual. For those who enjoy bird life, the Delta has an incredible diversity of bird species. If you would prefer not to brave the water, there are a number of different safari options, either on foot or in four-wheel drive vehicles. With the game being so plentiful visitors to the area are often surprised at how close you can actually get to the animals. The Okavango Delta is a magnificent wonder of nature, perhaps one of our planet's greatest, and is still largely unspoiled making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Caprivi Strip

In the northeast corner of Namibia, stretching out between Angola and Botswana and on to Victoria Falls, is the Caprivi Strip, a tropical region where remote, exquisite game parks are interspersed by three major rivers: the Kwando, the Okavango, and the Zambezi. These parks, located just north of Botswana, are adjacent to the famous Okavango Delta and share its beauty and abundance of wildlife. One such park is the Mamili Game Park, one of Namibia's most remote and beautiful wildlife reserves. This wetland area with its water channels, reed beds and wide assortment of flora and fauna is simply breathtaking.

The Victoria Falls 

A visit to Africa would not be complete if you did not see Victoria Falls. Known to the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya (which means "the smoke that thunders"), classified as one of the 7  natural wonders of the world. Located between Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River, the Falls are a breathtaking and spectacular sight that have been known to leave viewers with a bit of moisture in their eyes - whether from the mist of the Falls or tears welling up is yet to be determined. When David Livingstone first discovered the Falls he stated "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight." The number of possible activities here are endless, ranging from short safaris on elephant back to lazy evening sundowners aboard a boat on the Zambezi to bungee jumping in the gorge to helicopter flights over the falls. Victoria Falls is surely one of Africa's must-see wonders.

Bazaruto Archipelago

With a rich and vibrant blend of African, Portuguese and Arab influences, Mozambique offers a distinct contrast to the rest of southern Africa. Lined with tropical beaches, coral reefs and small isolated islands, Mozambique is a coastal paradise. The Bazaruto Archipelago, located just north of Maputo near Vilanculos, is one of Mozambique's most beautiful tropical destinations. The five islands - Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina, and Bengue - that make up this archipelago are a haven for scuba and snorkel divers, as well as for sun worshippers, and to this day are a paradise largely undiscovered by the tourism industry. The beaches are unspoiled, the islands are largely undeveloped, and the surrounding tropical waters host an incredible display of marine life. Mozambique is a newcomer to the world of tourism and as such offers some unique opportunities that will not be available forever. It is a country that has not yet experienced its full potential and still has many unexplored and adventure laden opportunities in tropical havens, such as in the Bazaruto islands.

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

Southern Africa - Must See Destinations

If you are looking for a unique and exotic vacation, something different from the ordinary, then you should consider Southern Africa.

The Garden Route
The Garden Route of South Africa lies on the southern coast just east of Cape Town and extends from Mossel Bay to the Storms River mouth. The Garden Route is bordered by the Outeniqua, Tsitsikamma, and Langekloof Mountain ranges to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. Here you will find Tsitsikamma National Park, the Knysna and Wilderness wetlands, relaxing beaches, hiking trails, and activities such as whale watching, sailing, and golf. This scenic coastal route is interspersed with a series of quaint and charming towns along the way. The climate is mild and the views are spectacular. The Cango Caves, one of South Africa's top ten most visited places, are located just north of the Garden Route. The Cango Caves are located close to Oudtshoorn, which is also the center of the South Africa ostrich farming industry. Many of the farms are open to visitors where you can tour the facilities, meet the birds up close, and even ride one! The Garden Route is a serene and beautiful part of South Africa, filled with astounding sights and plenty to do for both young and old.

Etosha National Park
Etosha National Parks is located in Namibia, one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Etosha is the third largest game reserve in Africa and has been recognized as one of the finer game viewing areas on the continent. Its main attraction is the so-called "Etosha Pan," an 80-mile saltpan that represents the remains of a large lake that used to fill the area. Here there are scattered waterholes that attract congregations of wildlife, particularly in the dry season from May to September. It is here that elephants, rare Black Rhinoceroses, prides of lions, cheetahs, and much more all roam in search of water. For one of Africa's most enthralling safari opportunities, you must visit Etosha.

Okavango Delta
For the more adventurous at heart the Okavango Delta, located in northern Botswana, is a veritable oasis of wildlife and natural wonder. This area is the world's largest inland delta, formed by the Okavango River, which begins in Angola and flows the Kalahari Desert, where it attracts wildlife from all over Africa. Described as "the river that never finds the sea," the Okavango disappears into a 6,000 square mile maze of channels and islands. With numerous lodges in this region, there is plenty to do. While in the Okavango a mokoro boat trip is a must. A mokoro is the local version of

a flat-bottomed canoe and is operated by a "poler" who uses a pole to push the boat forward and steer it accordingly. On a mokoro trip experienced guides lead you through the Delta as you silently glide down the channels and backwaters to places that are totally unreachable by any other mode of transport. Coming face to face with elephants crossing the waterways or herds of buffalos drinking from the Delta is nothing unusual. For those who enjoy bird life, the Delta has an incredible diversity of bird species. If you would prefer not to brave the water, there are a number of different safari options, either on foot or in four-wheel drive vehicles. With the game being so plentiful visitors to the area are often surprised at how close you can actually get to the animals. The Okavango Delta is a magnificent wonder of nature, perhaps one of our planet's greatest, and is still largely unspoiled making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Kruger National Park
Located in the northeast region of South Africa, Kruger National Park has some of the most spectacular game viewing in the world. With safari lodges scattered in and around the park, one thing is for sure, this is a once in a lifetime experience. Finding yourself face to face with a pride of lions (from a safe vantage point, of course) or seeing a herd of elephants cooling down at the local watering hole is something everyone should experience. In Kruger the animals are in their natural habitats and are free to roam the nearly five million acres that makes up the park. Kruger has one of the greatest varieties of wildlife species on the continent and is a world leader in enviromental management techniques and policies. it is a well managed park with incredible animals viewing and wonderful accommodations.

Victoria Falls
A visit to Africa would not be complete if you did not see Victoria Falls. Known to the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya (which means "the smoke that thunders"), Victoria Falls is classified as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Located between Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River, the Falls are a breathtaking and spectacular sight that have been known to leave viewers with a bit of moisture in their eyes - whether from the mist of the Falls or tears welling up is yet to be determined.

When David Livingstone first discovered the Falls he stated "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight." The number of possible activities here are endless, ranging from short safaris on elephant back to lazy evening sundowners aboard a boat on the Zambezi to bungee jumping in the gorge to helicopter flights over the falls. Victoria Falls is surely one of Africa's must-see wonders.

These are just a few of the many exciting and amazing places to visit in Southern Africa. 

For holiday ideas and more information, be sure to check out our websites:
www.southern-africa-travel.com

www.zimbabwe-reservations.com

www.botswana-reservations.com 

www.zambia-reservations.com
www.namibiareservations.com
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Hoanib Skeleton Coast

Opening on 1 August 2014, Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is scenically located in a broad valley at the confluence of two tributaries of the Hoanib River in the northern part of the private Palmwag Concession. Its location thus straddles the Palmwag area and the iconic Skeleton Coast National Park, in one of the most remote areas of the Kaokoveld.

Exclusivity is taken a step further as camp is only accessible by light aircraft and the camp itself consists of only seven twin-bedded tents and one family unit, each comprising stylish en-suite bedrooms with shaded outdoors decks. Flanked to the east and west by rugged hills, the camp looks out over stunning, starkly beautiful scenery and offers guests all the luxuries and amenities for an unforgettable stay.

  

 

 Book an unforgettable stay at Hoanib Skeleton Coast today!

For more information please contact

  Namibia Reservations at: info@namibiareservations.com

The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is situated along the upper Zambezi River. It includes the Victoria Falls and stretches for about 12 kilometres up the Zambezi River above the Falls.

 

It is only 66 square kilometres, but there are plans to extend the Park further up river. Because the Park is small, it affords a wonderfully relaxing drive alongside the river for much of the circular route, and the wide variety of species can be easily seen. The Park provides a home for numerous antelope species, zebra, giraffe, warthog, and a variety of birds and smaller animals. Elephants cross the Zambezi and freely walk through the Park and the surrounding area.

Some Accommodation at the National Park.......

Sussi & Chuma lodge

Toka Leya Camp

For more beautiful accommodations in Zambia visit our website at www.zambiareservations.com

The Kariba Bush Club - Lake Kariba Zambia

Nestled along the shores of Lake Kariba, Kariba Bush Club is an idyllic retreat to escape from our busy way of life, put your feet up and enjoy some quality time with loved ones.
Perched on the tip of the Siansowa peninsula in the district of Sinazongwe, the lodge overlooks the beautiful lake, surrounding islands, and rolling hills of the majestic Gwembe Valley on the horizon.

Facilities:

Baobab House is a double-story thatched cottage built atop a ridge alongside a massive Baobab Tree. This house sleeps 6 people, is self-contained, equipped with DSTV and offers private parking.

Eva Houseboat is small and cozy, sleeping 4 people. The boat is made up of two private cabins, a lounge, kitchen and open air upper-deck dining area. All the interior floors are carpeted and the boat elegantly decorated, an African theme subtly showing through on scatter cushions, picture frames hanging from the walls and hand-painted crockery.

 

  Marula House is a farm-style house with detached cottage, gracefully shaded by a group of Marula Trees. This house sleeps 10 people, is self-contained, equipped with DSTV and offers private parking.

Kholisa Houseboat is a large boat;19 metres long and 3 storeys high, able to accommodate up to 30 people. The boat is made up of 13 cabins, most of which are en-suite and air-conditioned.There is also a large kitchen, spacious dining and entertainment area as well as a bar, along with a splash pool and an upper sun deck with loungers.

Private rooms and dormitory are set back from the water amongst pretty gardens and natural vegetation and are simply furnished, yet cozy.
All creature comforts like linen and towels are provided, and a communal ablution block is located close to the rooms, making them ideal for travelers on a lower budget still wanting to experience Lake Kariba at her best.

Shaded campsite is set back from the water’s edge, but still within easy walking distance of the main lodge and Kariba Bush Club’s various facilities including the swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Ablutions, BBQ areas and power-points are all available within easy reach of the different campsites.

Lake view chalets

are perfect for those seeking a little comfort, privacy and tranquility. These canvas-and-thatch style chalets are each built on wooden decks facing east along a ridge overlooking Lake Kariba. Each one is en-suite with toilet and shower and each has its own private verandah with deck chairs, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Maaze Island Bush-Camp A tented camp on a private island; Six en-suite canvas safari tents each en-suite with their own toilet and shower, a thatched main boma with lounge and dining area, and a self-contained kitchen all facing the tranquil bay waters in which the camp was built. This and 200 hectares of remote and untouched island is what you get when you book to stay at our Maaze Island Bush Camp

 

For more information visit our Zambia Website at:

 www.zambia-reservations.com

 

Quirimbas Archipelago - Mozambique

The most spectacular jewels in Mozambique's marine crown rest in its Cabo Delgado Province, in the far north. The Quirimbas Archipelago (or 'Ilhas Quirimbas' as they're known in Portuguese) are a beautiful string of islands, often fringed by gorgeous beaches, which lie about 2,500km from Maputo.This is an isolated and remote area, it's probably the last stretch of East African coastline where the marine environments and beaches are ecologically pristine and largely unexplored.

Islands and beach lodges in the Quirimbas Archipelago

Quilálea Island

 Vamizi Island

Matemo Island Resort

Medjumbe Private Island

Beautiful Waterfalls of South Africa

How many times have you visited waterfalls in South Africa???? It is difficult not to be impressed by the amazing waterfalls in South Africa.

 

The Northern and Central Drakensberg area has some of the most beautiful scenery that can be imagined. The area falls into four valleys, beginning with the Champagne Valley in the Central Berg, through the Cathedral Peak and Didima Valley, then the Royal Natal National Park and Amphitheatre Valley, and finally the Middledale Pass Valley in the Northern Berg. Each of the four valleys has its own kind of beauty and character; all have magnificent mountain views.

Augrabies is derived from the Khoi name for 'place of the Great Noise' - one of the world's largest waterfalls. The Augrabies Falls National Park region is home to the Nama people and highly adaptable animals and plants. Only the strongest can survive in this ruggedly beautiful part of South Africa.

Mpumalanga is one of South Africa's most scenic provinces and when you drive through the Panorama region or visit the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, you'll see why. But it's not only canyons, mountains and seemingly limitless horizons that are waiting for you, there's also the Sabie Waterfalls Route.

The Sabie Waterfalls Route in Mpumalanga is amongst South Africa's best-kept secrets: visitors are often so captivated by the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, with its magnificent cliffs and stunning views, not to mention dazzling flora and fauna, that this superb cluster of waterfalls is often overlooked.

There are more waterfalls here than anywhere else in southern Africa, and you'll be astonished by their beauty and diversity. Forget the Big 5 and that magnificent canyon for a while, set aside a day or 2, and take yourself on a waterfalls tour.Start in Sabie and head north on the R532 towards the clearly signposted Horseshoe, Lone Creek and Bridal Veil Fall.

As the name suggests, the Horseshoe Falls creates an almst perfect horseshoe as it cascades down the mountainside. It's an easy walk through a campsite to get a superb view.

A short drive away is the evocatively named Lone Creek Falls, which tumble down almost 70m into lush ferns and forest.

You'll understand why the Bridal Veil Falls, again just a brief drive away, are so-named when you see the delicate tracery of water and spray that wafts like a veil from the high cliffs.

For more Sabie waterfalls, go further north on the R532 and head for the gorgeous Mac Mac Falls, named for the Scottish miners who sought their fortune here during the 1870s gold rush.

Next stop is South Africa's highest waterfall - The Lisbon Falls, named by Portuguese miners who panned for gold here. These falls crash down 90m into the gorge below.

Finally, it's off to the Berlin Falls, shaped like a huge white candle, which flows through a natural sluice before dropping 80m into a deep pool below. Then enjoy your packed lunch in the green shade of a lovely picnic spot.

There's something magical and relaxing about watching a waterfall, a calming effect that seems to take away all the stress of day to day living and is bound to lift your spirits no matter what kind of mood your in. The best waterfalls are the out of the way ones that are hard to find and where you have to hike to get there. Pick out your favorite falls and get out and enjoy the great outdoors!