Walking Safaris at the Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodges, South Africa

April 11th, 2011

Guests are always enthusiastic about the adventure of a walking safari, but are a bit apprehensive about the idea of starting their walk, of actually getting out of the safe and confined space of the safari vehicle.

Specially-trained, armed game rangers and trackers take guests on safari in open land rovers – both by day and night – and on walking trails, learning about some 300 bird species and 200 animal species, including lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, elephant and cheetah, tracked and followed off-road, deep into the African bushveld – a nature wonderland.

Each morning and evening, safaris in open Landrovers drive through a wide variety of habitats, allowing visitors to view the vast interactions of the wild. After breakfast, guests on guided walking trails can experience the natural environment on foot. The dedicated, skilled and passionate rangers lead the guest to discover miracles of nature one may never have dreamed existed.

  • Game drives and game walks
  • Swimming pools
  • The Earth Nature Spa and exercise centre
  • Massages, natural therapies or a classic spa
  • Secluded library
  • Art gallery
  • Meditation garden
  • Gourmet dining and outdoor boma dinners

http://www.south-african-lodges.com/sabi-sabi-game-reserve/index.php

Zambezi Queen Luxury Cruise, Botswana (Southern Africa)

April 11th, 2011

Zambezi Queen

The Mantis Group has acquired an equity stake in the Zambezi Queen Luxury Cruise and will commence with the marketing and management of this luxury boat with immediate effect.

This luxurious 45 meter floating boutique hotel situated on Botswana and Namibia’s Chobe River offers guests a once in a lifetime travel experience.

Tony Stern who is responsible for the original design and construction of the boat will remain our CEO and partner and will work closely with the Mantis management and marketing teams.

The Zambezi Queen cruises along the shores of the Chobe River and is uniquely situated only a few kilometers from a point where 4 African countries meet, namely Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. It is also only 80km by road from one of the great wonders of the world – the magnificent Victoria Falls. The world famous Chobe National Park, with its untamed wildlife and approximately 120 000 elephants and over 400 species of birds makes this Luxury African River Safari on The Zambezi Queen an exceptional and unforgettable wildlife safari experience.

http://www.south-african-lodges.com/zambezi-queen/index.php

Samara Private Game Reserve, Karoo South Africa

August 28th, 2010
FREE NIGHT AT SAMARA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
The Samara Private Game Reserve has so much to offer.  Staying at this beautiful game reserve for 3 nights under the Karoo skies provides a truly unforgettable experience.  The Lodge offers a complimentary third night for a booking of 2 nights or more at the Samara Karoo Lodge or at the exclusive use Manor House.
Valid: 1 September 2010 to 15 December 2010 ; 15 January 2011 to 31 March 2011
Begin the journey of revitalisation on your ‘thinking mans safari’, where you can plant a spekboom, walk with a master tracker and explore the ancient rock art before relaxing for an afternoon of indulgence with spa treatments, Karoo cuisine and sunset game drives.Elegant lodges provide luxury accommodation surrounded by an amphitheatre of mountains on 70,000 acres, where wildlife roams again.
 
An amazing life changing experience awaits, so come walk with the cheetah as you celebrate the rebirth of a unique piece of Africa and experience a luxury safari in the malaria free Eastern Cape.
Contact: africa@golfing-safaris.com
Tel 021 794 9050  // +27 (0)21 794 9050

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, Kruger National Park / South Africa

August 28th, 2010
A Wine for all Seasons at the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa
Sabi Sabi has long been acclaimed for its world class cuisine, with the lodge chefs consistently providing the most delicious of meals. Equally famous is the full and varied collection of fine wines on offer, a selection which has always been greatly enjoyed and won praise from discerning guests at the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve.

South Africa has many well known and award winning wine producers, and their exceptional products, as well as an impressive variety from good wine estates around the world, are featured in the lodges’ wine lists.

All four lodges at the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve in the Sabi Sands area of the Kruger National Park in South Africa have recently expanded their wine lists to include wines from some of the smaller up and coming South African estates and boutique wineries. Previously unknown and little recognised cellars from areas such as Elgin, Elim and Stanford in the Cape winegrowing areas, have begun producing top class wines . These new wineries are creating a buzz amongst those in the know, and Sabi Sabi is happy to present their wines to their guests.

A new introduction at Sabi Sabi is a range of superb house wines. After much tasting, debate and comparison, a selection from the Stellenrust Estates, complete with innovative Sabi Sabi label, was chosen to carry the Sabi Sabi name.

While Earth Lodge has the most impressive and celebrated wine collection – over 6000 bottles housed in the coolth of its beautiful underground cellar – Bush Lodge, Selati Camp and Little Bush Camp also boast exceptional wine lists. The Managers of each lodge, as well as their maitre d’s, have ongoing vintner training. They are always on hand to offer pairing advice, recommending the ideal accompaniment to a meal or advising on an aperitif or nightcap.

Whether it’s a crisp glass of Cape Sauvignon Blanc as the sun sets; a robust Merlot with dinner on a winter’s evening; a dry Cap Classique; or a late evening port – there is something to suit every nose and palate on the new Sabi Sabi wine list.

Contact details:
africa@golfing-safaris.com
Tel: +27 (0)21 794 9050

Rovos Rail Special for South African residents

August 28th, 2010

ROVOS RAIL INVITES YOU TO JOIN US ABOARD THE PRIDE OF AFRICA
 RATES OFFERED EXCLUSIVELY TO SOUTH AFRICAN RESIDENTS


The special RATE (50% discount) will apply to Deluxe suites : CAPE TOWN, DURBAN and VIC FALLS Journeys

DURBAN JOURNEYS (Experience the splendour of KwaZulu Natal. Take in the Big Five, a battlefields tour with a world class historian and unusual African Ceramics)

**  The Durban departures are governed by a minimum passenger requirement of 20 pax before the trip will be confirmed – please enquire for your provisional booking

•    11/10/2010    DURBAN    TO    PRETORIA

Deluxe Usual Rate  :  R 18000.00 per person sharing one way
***Discounted rate : R 9000.00 nett per person sharing one way***
Discounted rate : R 13 500.00 nett per single one way (R9000 + 50% single supplement)

VIC FALLS JOURNEYS (valid passport required for this journey)

•    05/09/2010   VIC FALLS    TO    PRETORIA
•    03/10/2010   VIC FALLS    TO    PRETORIA (hold 2009/2010 rate)

Deluxe Usual Rate:  R 18 750.00 per person sharing one way
***Discounted rate : R 9 375.00 nett per person sharing one way***
Discounted rate : R14 062.50 nett per single one way (R9 375 + 50% single supplement)

VIC FALLS JOURNEYS (NB – new season rates apply)

•    28/10/2010   VIC FALLS    TO    PRETORIA
•    31/10/2010   VIC FALLS    TO    PRETORIA

Deluxe Usual Rate:  R 20 600.00 per person sharing one way
***Discounted rate : R 10 300.00  nett per person sharing one way***
Discounted rate : R 15 450.00 nett per single one way (R10300 + 50% single supplement)

CAPE TOWN  JOURNEYS

August 2010

•    30/08/2010  CAPE TOWN   TO  PRETORIA   

Deluxe Usual Rate:  R 16 500.00 per person sharing one way in a Deluxe suite
***Discounted rate : R 8250.00 nett per person sharing one way***
Discounted rate : R 12375.00 nett per single one way (R8250 + 50% single supplement)

October 2010 (NB : new season rates apply)

•    08/10/2010    PRETORIA    TO    CAPE TOWN
•    23/10/2010    CAPE TOWN    TO    PRETORIA
•    25/10/2010    CAPE TOWN    TO    PRETORIA

Deluxe Usual Rate: R 18000.00 per person sharing one way in a Deluxe suite
***Discounted rate : R 9000.00 nett per person sharing one way***
Discounted rate : R 13 500.00 nett per single one way (R9000.00 + 50% single supplement)

Prices  include the following:

  • 2 Night’s accommodation on Rovos Rail, The Pride of Africa
  • All meals on board the train
  • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • All off train excursions as may apply to each itinerary
  • Limited laundry service

Excluded: Staff gratuities,  souvenirs, French Champagne, hotel accommodation and return flights

Terms and conditions apply and this special offer is subject to availability and valid exclusively for South African Residents.

For all confirmed bookings please e-mail us a copy of the guests SA ID/SA passport or SA residency.

Please contact : africa@golfing-safaris.com / Tel 021 794 9050

ROVOS RAIL LUXURY TRAIN SAFARIS

Amakhosi Game Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa)

August 16th, 2010
IsiGodlo – Private Villa Experience
Amakhosi is proud to launch something new and exciting and an alternative to offer your clients -

“IsiGodlo” which in Zulu means a Chief residence, is our private villa which overlooks the meandering Mkuze River and is perfectly positioned to capture every African sunset which adorns the rolling hills in this pristine Zululand wilderness.

Exclusive, private and located a leopard’s leap away from the main lodge, this hidden gem accommodating four deserving guests offers a share of paradise. The spacious lounge entices with large leather sofa’s, a centered fireplace and bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms all opening up onto a large wooden viewing deck, giving sweeping views of the valleys and wildlife below. The splash pool provides a cool relief on warm summer days and quality time spent here is the perfect way to relax and take in nature’s soothing surroundings.
Your own ranger , tracker and private! vehicle will ensure that the game viewing experience is one you will remember for a lifetime with each guest having their own ‘window’ seat to nature’s showpiece. Your qualified and knowledgeable ranger and tracker can also take you on foot to explore the intricacies of the African bush.
A fare of culinary aromas will heighten your senses with each dining experience being unique. Take in a true South African ‘braai’ , prepared and served by your ranger; join us in the lodge dining room for an A la Carte treat fit for an ‘AmaKhosi’ or something truly authentic under the African sky.

RATE 2010
(sleeps 4 pax)
1 Jan – 30 Apr R 16′800.00
1 May – 7 Jun R 12′400.00
8 Jun – 13 Jul R 16′800.00
14 Jul – 30 Sep R 12′400.00
1 Oct – 31 Dec R 16′800.00

Includes
•Accommodation
•Brunch (Late Breakfast)
•High Tea (Late Lunch)
•Dinner
•Morning and late afternoon game safaris with sundowner cocktails in the bush
•Local beverages and house wines, and early morning and late afternoon gamedrive drinks and snacks

Excludes
•Selected premier wines and spirits
•Massage treatments
•Baby sitting and gift shop purchases
•Local / international and mobile phone calls

For queries and reservations, please contact:
africa@golfing-safaris.com
www.south-african-lodges.com
www.south-african-hotels.com
Tel: +27 (0)21 794 9050

Thanda Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal/South Africa

August 16th, 2010
The Thanda Game Reserve in South Africa has taken the tented camp’s reputation of ‘rugged yet refined’ to a new level of luxury and comfort with the launch of Africa’s most romantic safari tent, The Honeymoon Tent, which is a beautiful addition tailored especially for honeymooners and wedding couples. The Honeymoon Tent features a king-sized bed in a spacious bedroom, and a comfortable separate lounge area for relaxation. The honeymoon tent is air conditioned and has an outdoor shower and Jacuzzi.
 
The four existing tents have undergone a soft refurbishment and had their structures reinforced. A fifth tent has been added to the camp to meet guest demand. The new fifth tent features a king-sized bed, a fan and outdoor shower.  Both of the new tents have been equipped with baths.
 
Thanda’s once non-electrified tented camp has now been equipped with a generator which will power the luxury tents for a few hours each day. Guests will now be able to charge cameras and phones in the privacy of their tents.
 
For queries and reservations, please contact:
africa@golfing-safaris.com
www.south-african-lodges.com
www.south-african-hotels.com
Tel: +27 (0)21 794 9050

Samara Game Reserve in South Africa: FAMILY INVITE

August 16th, 2010

The beautiful Samara Game Reserve in South Africa offers the ultimate experience among the untouched beauty of the Great Karoo. The elegant lodges provide luxurious accommodation among roaming wildlife, and heart-stopping scenery. And what’s more, Samara is offering special deals for families!

This fantastic offer means that when you pay for two nights, you get the third for free. Add in the fantastic deal for kids under eight staying for free, and you have yourself some very happy parents! And with all that, Samara also offer endless activities for children, including baking, orienteering, arts, crafts and more, just to make sure they are kept equally ecstatic at this amazing resort. Additionally families staying for four nights or more will get a “camp out” on the reserve.

For more information on this fantastic offer which is valid until November 2010 or to book, please contact:

africa@golfing-safaris.com
www.south-african-lodges.com
www.south-african-hotels.com
Tel: +27 (0)21 794 9050

HOUSE AND LEISURE ‘BEST OF SA’ AWARDS 2010 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

August 16th, 2010
HOUSE AND LEISURE ‘BEST OF SA’ AWARDS 2010 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED
House and Leisure magazine’s prestigious Best of SA awards, in association with Visa, have compiled their list of the country’s top 5 choices in the following 4 categories: hotels, lodges, restaurants and spas.
We are delighted to announce the lodges which have been nominated: Singita Sweni Lodge (Best South African Lodge), Kurland (Best South African Hotel), and The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais (Best South African Restaurant). 

SOUTH AFRICAN GAME LODGES:                                                       

- SINGITA SWENI LODGE, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga
- THE HOMESTEAD, Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu – Natal
- GRANITE SUITES, LONDOLOZI, Sabi Sand Game Reserves, Mpumalanga
- TSWALU KALAHARI, Near Kuruman, Northern Cape
- BUSHMANSKLOOF WILDERNESS RESERVE, Cederberg, Western Cape

 
For queries and reservations, please contact:
africa@golfing-safaris.com
www.south-african-lodges.com
www.south-african-hotels.com
Tel: +27 (0)21 794 9050

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp in Botswana has received a coveted “World’s Best” award

August 16th, 2010
The magnificent Sanctuary Chief’s Camp in Botswana has received a coveted “World’s Best” award from Travel + Leisure as one of the top resorts and camps in Africa and the number one safari lodge in Botswana.
The survey asked readers to rate properties on the basis of location, rooms/facilities, service, restaurants/food and value. This year “the spirit of exploration prevailed,” says Travel + Leisure editor in chief, Nancy Novogrod. “It’s clear that travellers are looking for encounters with the natural world.”
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp lies on Chief’s Island, one of the many islands created by the seasonal floodwaters of the Okavango Delta. The camp is tucked away in the exclusive Mombo Concession, part of the world-renowned Moremi Game Reserve. This is the predator capital of Africa and the game viewing is awe-inspiring: lions, leopard, cheetah, hyena and jackals abound, as do elephants, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and impala. Sanctuary Chief’s Camp is particularly famous for its wild dog population, the area surrounding the camp is one of the last strongholds in Africa. The concession is also a paradise for ornithologists, boasting over 500 species of birds.
 
“We are honoured that Sanctuary Chief’s Camp has been recognised by the readers of Travel + Leisure,” said David Spooner, Executive Vice President of Marketing. “Our philosophy of ‘luxury, naturally’ is based on the idea that travel should be an adventure without sacrificing the comforts of home. We believe responsible tourism is the answer to conserving our world’s natural resources, but need not be equated with ‘roughing it’.”
 
For queries and reservations, please contact:
africa@golfing-safaris.com
www.south-african-lodges.com
www.south-african-hotels.com
Tel: +27 (0)21 794 9050