Amakhosi Lodge, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa

BUSH JOURNAL

The male lions that were introduced to the Amakhosi Game Reserve late last year are doing exceptionally well and exploring every corner of the property with their newly found female companions. The arrival of the new males stimulated the females into oestrus and before long the relentless mating processes began. We are of course delighted as the first steps to a new gene pool have officially begun, confirmed by the daily sunset entertainment of the roaring male contingent

Ngala Lodge, Kruger National Park SOUTH AFRICA

Walking Safaris at the Ngala Lodge, Kruger National Park

The Walking Safaris reopen on 01 March at the Ngala Game Lodge.

Encounter the unforgettable excitement and drama of Africa … on foot. CC Africa offers exhilarating Walking Safaris enabling our guests an exceptional interpretive, up close and personal African adventure. Safe and exciting, these safaris are led by specialised and highly qualified CC Africa rangers and trackers, who teach guests how to identify tracks and insects, birdwatch and appreciate the varied habitats and fascinating ecology.

CC Africa’s Walking Safaris can be experienced at both Ngala and Phinda Private Game Reserves. With just four ensuite safari tents (maximum eight guests), the Walking Safaris camps can be booked for exclusive-use, enabling an entirely private and intimate experience.Enjoy a daily 5-hour morning walk, and a short pre-sunset walk combined with a thrilling night drive. While observing a herd of elephant at a safe distance is possible, the emphasis is on microsystems, and time is spent examining the likes of spiders, ant lions and dung beetles.

Phinda Game Lodge, Kwa-Zulu Natal (SOUTH AFRICA)

A NEW MOUNTAIN EMERGES THAT WILL SIMPLY TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY…

PHINDA GAME RESERVE, South Africa

The R20 million rebuilding and refurbishing of our much-loved Phinda Mountain Lodge is on track and flying, with 18 newly transformed suites (complete with brand new bathrooms, new entrance, new decks, private plunge pools and outdoor showers) already open to guests. Upon completion of this enormous project, the lodge will feature 25 suites in total, two of which are ideal for families.

The guest area is unrecognisable – the roof has been removed, and the area has been magically transformed into a spacious u-shaped building with central al fresco courtyard. The intimate sitting areas are filled with sunlight, and lead out onto a shaded terrace and three-tiered spacious veranda with spectacular views of the Ubombo Mountains and bushveld.

In addition, the lodge has a brand new Safari Shop bursting with new products, an interpretive library room, dramatic open-air boma, swimming pool and shaded observation deck.

There is also an intimate meeting room available for a maximum of 30 people. 01 Feb - 31 Mar 08: 18 rooms complete • 01 Apr 08 – 30 Apr 08: 20 rooms complete • 01 May 08: all 25 rooms open! Guests will delight at Mountain Lodge’s fresh new face and elegant design, with the same CC Africa signature style guests know and love.

SPECIAL PACKAGE Ulusaba Lodge, Kruger Park

SPEND 4 NIGHTS ON SAFARI AT ULUSABA FOR THE PRICE OF 3! Or, stay a little longer and SPEND 5 NIGHTS AT ULUSABA FOR THE PRICE OF 4!

Stay for 4 or 5 nights between February and July 2008 at one of our stunning lodges at Ulusaba, and get your final night for free!

When you’re at Ulusaba…
All your meals and drinks during your stay with us are included, even fine champagne! We also organise twice daily game drives and game walks in search of the Big 5! That’s lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos since you asked.
If that wasn’t enough to keep you busy, you’ll also experience traditional music and swinging in the great outdoors while you dine by firelight and starlight.

Offer available for limited dates and rooms during this period. Block out dates may apply over Easter

Offer applies for any new bookings made between 15th February 2008 and 30th April 2008 for arrivals between the 15th February – 31st July 2008

All our normal booking terms and conditions apply

This offer cannot be combined with any other offer or special package

Ulusaba Lodge / Kruger National Park SOUTH AFRICA

Christmas and Year End Celebrations in Africa
at the Ulusaba Game Lodge in the Kruger National Park ( South Africa)

Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations at Sir Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Private Game Reserve promise treasured memories for years to come.

On the Eve of Christmas

The Justicia Best Boys Choir will be singing all your favourite carols gathered round our African- inspired Christmas tree, while our chefs prepare a feast fit for Kings!

On Christmas Day

Your ranger will whisk you away to a secret location in the Bush where Christmas lunch is served under ancient Jackalberry trees, whilst you tap your feet to the eager rhythms of a Marimba band…

Celebrate New Year’s Eve under a blanket of stars

Your very last game drive of 2008 brings you to ‘Marula’, Ulusaba’s own African Lounge in the Bush.
Here you will feast on traditional dishes prepared over an open fire. Enter the New Year with a beat in your heart as you are delighted by pulsating drums set against a backdrop of African theatre.

The night fades at the Bush Observatory with the stars twinkling in silent and shared anticipation.

New Year’s Day

A late-morning Champagne Brunch will be served for those Bush Babies and other creatures of the night. Early birds can indulge in a Continental Breakfast.

When can I stay?

Christmas arrivals 22nd or 23rd December 2008
New Year’s Eve arrivals 27th or 28th December 2008

What are the terms & conditions?

Minimum stay of 5 nights
Rates are subject to change at any time
Booking terms and conditions apply
What’s included?

· Five nights’ accommodation at one of our beautiful lodges based on two people sharing one room
· All meals served in a variety of locations
· All beverages including a top quality wine list and fine Champagne
· Laundry service (no dry cleaning available)
· A 25% discount voucher for all beauty treatments at the Aroma Boma Virgin Touch Spa.
· South African VAT & Tourism Bed Levy
· Really nice staff!

Things to do?

· See the ‘Big Five’ on the twice daily game viewing drives traversing an area of 13,500 hectares, accompanied by a fully trained and experienced Ranger and Tracker
· Enjoy a daily walking safari accompanied by a Ranger and Tracker and learn about medicinal properties of plants, local beliefs regarding the wildlife and fascinating facts regarding the animals*
· Work out at one of our gymnasiums, located at both Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge
· Have a hit of tennis on one of two floodlit tennis courts or watch your friends courtside from the viewing pavilion – racquets and balls supplied
· Relax in the one of the lounges at both lodges and watch a bit of TV, a DVD, play some music or read one of our books from the library
· Surf the net on the guest computer
· Informative talks on local plants and wildlife as well as conservation efforts can be organised on request for both adults and children
· Nose and swirl around a few South African reds and whites in the wine cellar at Safari Lodge – wine tasting sessions arranged on request. There is an outdoor dining area for up to six guests - great for private dining
· Star gazing at the Observatory tucked away in the Bush

Something for the children

Cubs of all ages are welcome at Rock Lodge and will be invited to take part in the complimentary Ulusaba Cub’s Club. Aiming to both entertain and educate cubs about their surroundings, the Cub’s Club doesn’t offer a set programme, but rather a range of activities suitable for every child.

Available on request (not included in room rates)

· Return Federal Air flights between Johannesburg and Ulusaba’s private airstrip for two
· Aroma Boma Beauty Treatments – everything from massages to facials…perfect pampering
· Excursions such as the Community Tour, Cheetah Breeding Project Tour and Scenic helicopter flights*
· Private game drives (subject to availability)
· Photocopying, telephone and fax facilities
· Gift Shop purchases *subject to favourable weather conditions

Ulusaba Lodge, South Africa WEDDING PACKAGES

Ulusaba Game Lodge, Kruger National Park

WEDDING PACKAGES

Why get married at Ulusaba?
We love weddings, and what could be more spectacular or evocative than a ceremony in the African Bush? This is the kind of wedding your guests will be talking about for years to come, although it’s not just about them of course! We’ve put together a series of four wedding options, from simple to lavish, all designed to ensure the bride and groom get off to a fantastic start!

What are the options?

Pure Romance:
For the couple who want a private, romantic wedding without too much fuss


Simply Exclusive:
For those who want to bring their friends and family along but don’t want all the frills and bows

Pure Indulgence:
Designed for the couple who want a private and romantic wedding with a lot of pampering!

Premium Exclusive:
For those who want to celebrate with their nearest and dearest with all the trimmings

What’s included with ALL of the above?
3 nights’ accommodation for the bride and groom
All your meals and beverages (including special wedding meals), and unlimited French Champagne
The ceremony at any one of a variety of stunning locations either within the lodges or in the Bush (transfers included)
A minister, preparation for the ceremony, processing of all legal documents
Wedding cake
Twice daily game drives in the Bush
Complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability)
Optional room for the bride on the eve and/or day of the wedding (subject to availability)
Optional private dinner for two on the eve of the wedding
Optional breakfast in bed on the morning after the ceremony
Pressing of the bride and grooms’ outfits
A wedding gift from us and plenty of other little extras and surprises!

What else is included?

Our Pure Romance option includes all the above goodies as well as:
30 minute massage each for the bride and groom

Our Pure Indulgence option includes all the above goodies as well as:
A 1 hour body massage for the bride and groom the day before the ceremony
A bridal bouquet, a button hole for the groom and flowers for decoration
Special wedding turn down service in the bride and groom’s room
Manicure, pedicure and make-up for the bride on the day
Assistance from staff for the bride and groom for dressing, hair etc.
30 minute ‘Quick Fix’ mini-facial for the bride the day after the ceremony

Our Simply Exclusive option includes all the above goodies as well as:
· 3 nights hire of one lodge for up to 20 guests and private use of game vehicles, with extra nights available
30 minute massage each for the bride and groom
Special wedding turn down service in the bride and groom’s room


Our Premium Exclusive option includes all the standard goodies as well as:
3 nights hire of one lodge for up to 20 guests and private use of game vehicles, with extra nights available
A 1 hour body massage for the bride and groom the day prior
Special wedding turn down service in the bride and groom’s room
A bridal bouquet, bridesmaid bouquet, button holes for the groom and wedding party, flowers for decoration
Manicure, pedicure and make-up for the bride on the day
Two manicures that the couple can give to the guests of their choice (e.g. bridesmaid, mother of the bride)
Assistance from staff for bridal party dressing, hair etc.
Optional dinner party for the ‘boys’ and ‘girls’ to be arranged at two different locations at the lodge
5 disposable cameras for use at the wedding dinner
30 minute ‘Quick Fix’ mini-facial for the bride the day after the ceremony


Available on request (not included in the rates)
We have lots of exciting extras available on request including a spectacular helicopter flight through the Blyde River Canyon to take in God’s Window, followed by a romantic picnic with views of The Pinnacle, a place of breathtaking beauty high above the world! We can also arrange extra flowers, hairdressing, flights, table gifts – in fact pretty much anything!



Photography packages available on request (see rates below)

RATES 2008/2009
(valid from 1st October 2008 until 30th September 2009)


Pure Romance
All prices are per couple
3 nights extra night
Safari Room R32,600 R9,200
Elephant or Rock Cliff Room R44,600 R13,200
River Room R50,000 R15,000
River Room with plunge pool R56,600 R17,200
Master Suite with plunge pool R56,600 R17,200
Rock Suite R56,600 R17,200
Makwela Suite with plunge pool R60,200 R18,400



Pure Indulgence
All prices are per couple
3 nights extra night
Safari Room R35,500 R9,200
Elephant or Rock Cliff Room R47,500 R13,200
River Room R52,900 R15,000
River Room with plunge pool R59,500 R17,200
Master Suite with plunge pool R59,500 R17,200
Rock Suite R59,500 R17,200
Makwela Suite with plunge pool R63,100 R18,400






Simply Exclusive
All prices are for up to 20 guests sharing either Rock or Safari Lodge
3 nights extra night
R365,800 R120,000


Premium Exclusive
All prices are for up to 20 guests sharing either Rock or Safari Lodge
3 nights extra night
R370,950 R120,000


Please note that our normal terms and conditions apply. Ulusaba reserves the right to change the rates at any time and supplements and minimum stays may apply during peak periods.



Photography Packages
All prices below are net rates and non commissionable

Option 1:
This option includes approximately 200 jumbo size photographs (includes black and white sepia photos, machine printed on colour paper)

Photographs are taken in the following order:
Bride getting dressed (1 hour before the ceremony)
Duration of the ceremony
Formal groups, family and friends
Bride & Groom
Wedding Reception (1 hour from the arrival of the bridal couple)

2008 R6,720
2009 Available upon request

Option 2:
This option includes approximately 300 jumbo size photographs (includes black and white Sepia photos, machine printed on colour paper)

Photographs are taken in the following order:
Bride getting dressed (1 hour before the ceremony)
Duration of the ceremony
Formal groups, family and friends
Bride & Groom
Wedding Reception (3 hours from the arrival of the bridal couple, includes all guests’ tables and reception procedures)

2008 R8,100
2009 Available upon request

Shipping of Wedding Album
· If the couple is in South Africa for at least 6 days after the wedding, the album will be couriered to their hotel at an additional charge of R350
· Overseas insured courier is an additional R1,140

Please note:
· All negatives are included in both photography packages
· All photographs are placed in a high quality flip album (25cm x 19cm x 6cm)
· All photographs are copied onto a CD and included in the album

Ulusaba Game Lodge, Kruger Park South Africa HONEYMOON PACKAGE

Ulusaba Game Lodge, Kruger National Park ( South Africa)


Honeymoons in Heaven on Earth…

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve has come up with some incredible ideas for an intimate and private escape to the African Bush for a honeymoon, including exquisite accommodation, glorious game viewing and excellent service. This romantic Ulusaba experience promises to be ‘Heaven on Earth’, and a holiday never to be forgotten!


Choose our Honeymoon Option at Ulusaba and all the following is included:

3 nights’ accommodation for the lucky couple with extra nights available
All food and beverages including unlimited French Champagne
All game viewing
A fruit basket and Champagne in the room on arrival
A 30-minute relaxing massage each
Private dinner on the last evening complete with own personal butler
Optional breakfast in bed the following morning
Complimentary space-available upgrade
Gift on departure


RATES (All prices below are per couple)

Valid from 1st October 2008 to 30th September 2009

3 Nights Extra Night
Safari Room R28,600 R9,200
Elephant or Rock Cliff Room R40,600 R13,200
River Room R46,000 R15,000
River Room with plunge pool R52,600 R17,200
Rock Suite R52,600 R17,200
Master Suite with plunge pool R52,600 R17,200
Makwela Suite with plunge pool R56,300 R18,400



Please note that our normal terms and conditions apply. Ulusaba reserves the right to change the rates at any time and supplements and minimum stays may apply during peak periods.

Shamwari Game Reserve wins trip Advisor Travelers Choice Award

Shamwari Game Reserve was recently acknowledged by 10 000,00 travellers as the BEST LUXURY - AFRICA TRAVELERS CHOICE DESTINATION.



Selected by the largest travel community in the world, The TripAdvisor® Travelers' ChoiceT award's showcase the hotels who have earned their distinction from those who know them best - real travelers.



Only TripAdvisor's hotel award's represent the opinions of millions of travelers. The award is a true testament to the dedication and outstanding customer service provided by the establishment.



On receiving this award, Adrian Gardiner, owner and founder of Shamwari Game Reserve said: "This award endorses that which the Travel Trade nominated SHAMWARI for, over the past 10 years - as the "World's Leading Safari and Game Reserve" & World's Leading Conservation Company" - and we are very proud to now be recognized as the best by our guests as well."



Shamwari Game Reserve, the malaria free private game reserve in the Eastern Cape, is situated in verdant bush along the Bushmans River, halfway between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. Their 6 luxury lodges, each with their own distinctive style and location, offer you privacy, comfort and quality.

Bushmans Kloof game viewing

As a newcomer to this enigmatic wilderness reserve, I stood in awe on the first of January as the sun made its appearance in the east, painting the sky myriad, multi-coloured shades, at the onset of yet another glorious day here in the African bush.

January and February have been incredible months for game viewing and star gazing alike. However, before I divulge further news, I would very much like to share with you some of the poignant Christmas experiences that have enriched our existence. On Christmas Eve we were blessed with the onset of light, soothing rain, which transformed the arid bush into a hive of lively, chirpy activity, with birds, insects and animals (not to mention we humans) being transformed into happy, thankful creatures.
As a result of good rains this past winter, which provided the 'browsers & grazers' (grass feeders) with plenty of food and sufficient resistance to withstand the current dry spell, a large number of newborn bontebok, springbok and antelope made their debut over the Christmas period, enabling our guests to experience one of Nature's true wonders - newborn lambs entering the world.

Leopard sightings have been equally remarkable over this period, with sightings of at least three elusive 'spoors' (tracks) on numerous occasions by Field Guide Jacques Tredoux (aka 'Jacques the Extraordinaire'). We have had great success with our digital trail cameras which take photos when motion is detected, and have been able to monitor the movement patterns of two leopards previously collared on the reserve and fitted with GPS tracking devices: Kooitjie (male) and Amber (female).

The year certainly started off on a high note, with Bushmans Kloof achieving world fame when it was named one of the Top 101 Hotels of the World in the prestigious UK Tatler Travel Guide 2008. I felt very proud to belong to this great team when the news broke here at the reserve.
February seems indeed to be the universal month of love, and my wife Jannis and I have been utterly charmed by the sounds of a pair of spotted eagle owls mating just outside our home adjacent to the lodge, every night for an entire week, during this month of love. It seems the spirit of Valentine transcends humanity!

Bushmans Kloof is always an excellent destination for star gazing and watching the night skies, but the 21st of February was a special day as some of our guests were fortunate to bear witness to the lunar eclipse that took place between 03:45 and 06:00. Guide Jacques Tredoux accompanied Mr and Mrs Andre Schoon to a look out spot close to the Main Dam in the reserve, where these spectacular photographs were captured. Thanks very much to Mr Schoon for sharing his photographs of this unique occurrence with us! (see below)

We are always proud to provide a more streamlined experience for guests, and proudly announce that free High Speed Wireless Internet is now offered throughout the lodge, firmly cementing our link with the outside world and enabling our guests to stay in touch 24/7 while visiting us.

In closing, have a look at our upcoming Special Events and Winter Getaways (below) that offer the chance to experience Bushmans Kloof differently - from our haunting landscape of remarkable wind-sculpted rock formations framing vast beds of spectacular flowers and fynbos, to the natural beauty of indigenous wildlife roaming free among one of the world's largest open-air Bushman rock art galleries.

Before we know it winter will be on our doorstep, so visit us while the glorious summer weather is in full bloom here in the shadow of the majestic Cederberg mountains.
We look forward to seeing you soon!

Warm regards
Nelson Rodrigues

Lodge Manager