Sample - Southern Africa Exploration V2

Terra Africa Guest House, located in Windhoek, Namibia, offers a serene retreat with a variety of comfortable en-suite double and family rooms. Each room is equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a bar. Activities available to guests include exploring local attractions, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying the beautiful garden views.

Kulala Desert Lodge’s location at the foot of the majestic Sossusvlei dunes allows for stunning views in every direction, while its private entrance to the Namib Naukluft National Park makes it the closest location to Sossusvlei. The camp is ideal for self-drives and groups. Twenty-three thatched ‘kulalas’ (including one family room and two family units) on raised platforms make for airy, comfortable accommodation, and guests can even sleep out on the flat roofs. Afternoons around the pool provide relief from the heat, while the wraparound veranda at the main area overlooks a waterhole, and private tours of the dunes provide the ultimate Sossusvlei experience. - INSIDER TIP - Try your hand at desert photography – whether capturing the red colour of the dunes in the early morning light or the otherworldly tree skeletons standing starkly across the floor of Dead Vlei.

Activities available at Kulala Desert Lodge include;

Visiting Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei

World-famous Sossusvlei is both the name for the area in general as well as an enormous clay pan, flanked by the enormous sand dunes. Nearby, at the foot of some these dunes the skeletons of trees dominate the landscape, where once water flowed. This is known as Dead Vlei.

Visit Sesriem Canyon

This fascinating geographical formation is well worth a visit. The result of millions of years where water carved its way into the earth, Sesriem Canyon is today three kilometres long. Views from the top are breathtaking while walks through the canyon reveal distinct geographical layers which were laid down over aeons.

Nature drives

The 37 000-hectare private Kulala Nature Reserve offers visitors exclusive wildlife-viewing opportunities which include the likes of gemsbok (oryx), bat-eared fox, brown hyaena and birdlife. Enjoy a coffee or sunder stop in scenic parts of the reserve as a highlight.

Walking trails

Walking trails focus on becoming immersed in this remote area, as well as its scenic beauty and the fascinating, and surprisingly, diverse array of insects, reptiles and rodents which make this dry and harsh region their home. The Tsauchab River Trail takes a stroll along the dry riverbed close by the camp.

The sundowner tour

Set out in the late afternoon for a nature drive and complete your excursion in a remote and dramatic spot on the reserve, sipping a gin and tonic while watching the sun set over the distant mountains or dunes.

Star bed

Sleep out under the starry skies of the Namib and be lulled to sleep by the sounds of Africa on the roof or your unit.

Hot air balloon safari*

The balloon safari on the Kulala Wilderness Reserve offers a truly unique experience to soar silently above the magnificent sand dunes and desert, with a champagne breakfast being served at your landing site. *This activity is at additional cost and is closed on 25 December, 1 January and from 15 January to 15 February.

Horse riding safari*

Ride through some of the most spectacular and unusual scenery on the planet on well-schooled horses. Watch the sun go down at a beautiful spot while sipping a drink and then canter back under the stars in time for dinner. *This activity is at additional cost and on request.

Back in 1996 Wilderness Safaris set up their operation on land close to the spectacular Sossusvlei, land that had previously been used for subsistence goat farming, precious little indigenous wildlife remained. A massive programme to remove internal fences and livestock was undertaken and the recovering health of the ecosystem brought the wildlife back. Then, the fence that divided the Kulala Wilderness Reserve (KWR) and the Namib Rand Nature Reserve was dropped, and while those between KWR and the adjacent Namib-Naukluft National Park remain, they are no impediment to the movement of wildlife.

Conservation Safari Company recommends Kulula Desert Lodge as an excelent value lodge with the best access into the national park, (private gate) as well as excellent activities on their private land. Good food, guides and high standards along with access through Wilderness Safaris own flight schedule makes this our most popular lodge in Sossuvlei.

We generally book this lodge on a full inclusive basis - including activities, food and drinks. Please be sure you check with us on what basis you are booked.

Centrally situated, the hotel serves as the perfect getaway to all tourists amenities which Swakopmund and surrounding areas have to offer, from sand-boarding some of the highest dunes in the world to big game viewing in one of our country's world-known game parks. Surrounded by local tour operators, aviation and safari offices and five minutes from the beach, the Hansa Hotel is perfect for the discerning traveler looking for an adrenaline filled holiday or merely a bit of relaxation.

“A sense of place in an archaeological landscape”

The lodge is situated on the northern periphery of the Spitzkoppe inselberg, between huge granite boulders, which were created more than 150 million years ago, with breath-taking views onto the Brandberg and Erongo Mountains. The stylish, private accommodation consists of 15 spacious, tastefully furnished chalets, each with private bathroom and outside viewing deck, which connects the guest with the vast stretches of untouched sand and boulders beyond.

The buildings are linked with elevated walkways all constructed to be wheel chair friendly and minimise the impact on the environment. The development and operations are integrated with nature. Limited use of concrete with elevated floors and decks and composite materials for walls, which can be dismantled easily, will enable nature to restore itself in just a few months after deconstruction. Sensitivity towards wildlife and heritage was paramount in all the stages of the development. The tented roof shapes simulate the surrounding rock formations and soften the square building plan form.

Water is sourced from boreholes and purified with their own reverse osmosis plant. The lodge is connected to the national grid by way of a 5km long underground cable for it’s electricity supply, all to ensure minimum disturbance of the spectacular archaeological landscape. It is quite an intoxicating experience, staying amongst these ancient landscapes, which delve into the visitor’s spirit. 

Activities include guided tours to archaeological sites, including but not limited to the Bushman’s Paradise (National Monument) as well as other paintings and caves, Small Bushman’s Paradise and the Golden Snake painting. 

- Sunset biking tour – N$ 350.00 per person includes a sunset drink at the “small arch”
- Biking Tour (4 Stops) – N$250.00 per person to specific scenic sites and paintings around the Spitzkoppe

Rock Climbing, The Spitzkoppe/Pontok area is the premier rock climbing destination in Namibia. With over 100 sport- and trad routes to choose from on sculptured rock faces, with burning red sunsets and a breathtaking view into the Namib desert, this magical area has attracted climbers all over the world and yet you still find uncrowded climbing routes and wilderness.

Conservation Safari Company recommends Spitzkoppen Lodge for its excellent offering of hospitality, accommodation and food and activities on site. Photographically the rock bridge or arch, is world famous and the mountain features are just wonderful. 

Rates are typically on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis  - activities are extra.

Situated just outside White River in Mpumalanga, Oliver’s is an owner-managed boutique hotel located on the secure White River Country Estate.

Overlooking the first green of the 18-hole championship White River Golf Course, our ‘home away from home’ environment allows guests to experience the marriage between Austrian flair and subtle African influences.

Our bespoke accommodation in upmarket rooms includes family options as well as an in-house restaurant offering mouth-watering a-la-carte continental dishes, with our wine cellar providing the perfect venue to enjoy our raclette and fondue.

Our on-site Wellness and Beauty Centre offers massages, face and body treatments, manicures, pedicures and waxing services.

Guests staying with us have access to world class golf courses including Leopard Creek or day touring the Mpumalanga panorama with its attractions such as Kruger National Park, God's Window, Bourkes Luck Potholes and many other spectacular sights. With Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport a mere 15 minutes’ drive away, it is easy to see why Oliver’s is the perfect pre or post Safari stay.

MalaMala Game Reserve consistently produces the most exciting wildlife experience this side of the equator! The Safari Industry's blueprint to the luxury photographic safari, MalaMala has been custodian of this massive thriving tract of land since 1927. MalaMala Game Reserve is the largest private Big Five game reserve in South Africa. Comprising 13 300 ha (33 000 acres), MalaMala shares a 19 km (12 mile) unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, and lies strategically sandwiched between the National Park and the Sabi Sand Reserve. Every aspect of the Main Camp and Sable Camp is designed to appreciate and enjoy the view of the surrounding wilds. Pathways wind their way along the perimeter of the camp to reveal individual ochre colored units tucked into the greenery which flanks the Sand River. Massive trees and rolling green lawns are filled with birdsong, with the occasional antelope or elephant which seeks the succulence of greenery. The camp is unfenced - an oasis in the middle of the bushveld.

Conservation Safari Company recommends MalaMala for its fantastic game viewing, arguably the best in Southern Africa, and for its sizeable tract of magnificent land where game drives take place. The Main Camp is somewhat large but maintains a convivial atmosphere with that, the recent renovation has brought their hospitality and food up to the standard of their game viewing!

Rates include all meals and safari activities, and locally supplied drinks.

"Chocolat "is a beautiful 2 bedroom villa apartment with views over Thesen Island Harbour Town. It is stylishly decorated, with a fully equipped kitchen, to spend a quiet romantic evening eating in or choose to eat at any of the award-winning restaurants within 50 meters walking distance. A spacious open living area with large outside living space. Relax on the sun loungers with beautiful views from the roof top terrace.

The space
Open plan kitchen lounge opens up onto a very large sun deck with loungers and umbrellas to soak up the Knysna sun. Kitchen with electric hob and stove, fridge, freezer, microwave, nespresso machine, washer & dryer. Lounge with flatscreen TV and satelite Tv.
Large sun deck with roof top views, over the lagoon and Thesen Island, with dining table for 6, 2 lounge chairs, sun umbrella, charcoal grill.
Two en suite bedrooms one with queen size bed and other with 2 single beds that can easily be converted into a king bed.
Beautifully tiled en suite bathrooms with lush towling and amenities.
Guest access
Guest have private direct access to the rooftop villa with secure parking on site. 
Other things to note
The villa is located on the top floor of the Boatshed building, above the renowned ile de pain bakery and restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch & on the go breads, pastries and sandwiches.
Restaurants and shops are within walking distance.
Fishing, canoeing, sailing, boating, bicycle hire and access to the lagoon within walking distance.

The villa apartment is on the top floor, which requires climbing two flights of stairs

Mooiplaas Guesthouse, you can relax, unwind and enjoy yourself in the comfort of our stylish and luxurious 4 star accommodation and experience something different, an authentic and unique farm stay. Soak up the family friendly atmosphere while enjoying the peace of wide open spaces and big open skies of the Klein Karoo.

When you arrive at Mooiplaas Guesthouse, you will be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink, explained what to do and where to go to on your stay in the Klein Karoo.
The rooms are elegantly decorated and equipped with all the necessary items to make you feel extra special. At night we light up the evening atmosphere with an unique barbecue dinner and afterwards, you can join the stargazing session done by one of our local guides( at an extra cost). Returning back in your room, you will find two bottles of free water and a night cap of the local port to enjoy before you drift off!

We delight in spoiling our guests - no request is too much effort for us!

Our dining room offers fine local cuisine and serves a full breakfast (included in the rate), four course set dinner menu and an open bar. Find out more about our traditional Klein Karoo cuisine and check out our favorite recipes!

This landmark hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and offers spectacular views of the working harbour and Table Mountain. You can walk safely to restaurants, craft markets, cinemas, boat cruises to Robben Island, shops and entertainment centres in the amphitheatre. You can feel the ambience of colonial Cape Town as you step into the foyer, sense the past of shipwrecks and storms that colour every corner, then relax in the elegant contemporary bedrooms.. and savour the atmosphere of the world’s most famous working harbour. Built in 1904 as the North Quay Warehouse and converted in 1990 to a luxury hotel, it is named in honour of the Queen of England and her son. Prince Alfred visited the Cape in 1870 and officially opened the Breakwater basin, today’s Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

There are 94 spacious, air-conditioned, en-suite rooms spread over three floors. The superior luxury double rooms boast separate bath, shower and toilet, king-sized beds and are creatively styled and well-appointed. All have coffee and tea on tap, with private bar, electronic safe, pay-for-view television, wireless internet plus high speed internet access and trouser press….every room has a view over the ever-awake Alfred Basin or Piazza.

Conservation Safari Company recommends the V&A Hotel for its fantastic, central location in the waterfront and high quality accommodation - while not 5 star it is excellent value for what it offers.

Rates include bed and breakfast only.

Overlooking the mighty Zambezi River, the site of Old Drift Lodge was once the original crossing point of the river, dating back to 1898. Known as “Clarke’s Drift”, and just 7km upstream from the waterfall, it was the narrowest part of the river, making it the best crossing point.

Old Drift Lodge has 14 tented chalets, all slightly raised on wooden decks and spaced out along the riverfront. These chalets are quite contemporary in design, their canvas walls the only real nod to a “tent”. Light-coloured canvas, glass sliding doors and windows and high ceilings all create a well-lit space.

The sizeable open-plan bedroom has a four-poster mosquito net enveloping a large king or twin beds, plus bedside tables, and a small dressing room behind the bed with built-in cupboards that house the air conditioning. A seating area affords space for relaxation, with two comfortable armchairs and a small coffee table, a locally made wooden desk and dresser, plus a minibar, tea and coffee station and ice-making machine.

Leading off the dressing room, four of the chalets have a second en-suite bedroom (with a shower and toilet), so cater well for families with young children.

Back in the main bedroom, a sliding canvas door opens into the equally spacious en suite bathroom, with twin copper basins, a large glass-screened shower cubicle, and a toilet behind another sliding door. Step outside and you'll find an outside shower, as well as a free-standing ball-and-claw bath on the deck, with canvas curtains should you prefer a little more privacy.

A lot of thought has gone into the little touches in each tented chalet, whose amenities include toiletries, dressing gowns and slippers in the bathrooms, along with mosquito repellent and bug spray, a hairdryer and even hair straighteners! There's also a charging station by each desk, and international and USB plug sockets next to the beds.

The sliding doors from each chalet open onto a wooden deck, with loungers placed next to a small plunge pool, looking out to the river. Your days will no doubt be filled with activities, but for those spending the afternoon siesta at the lodge, this is a great spot for birdwatching, with plenty of pied kingfishers, bee-eaters and swifts flying past. On our most recent stay, in Feb 202, we spotted some bushbuck too.

Linking the chalets to the expansive tented main area are wood-effect walkways, with regular breaks allowing river access along the natural migration routes of elephant, and sometimes buffalo. Large wooden doors open into the main area itself, with cream canvas walls, whitewashed wood floors and folding glass doors opening the full length of one side. Wrought-iron lights hang over comfortable chairs and sofas, piled with cushions and soft blankets for the colder evenings, and surrounding a central fireplace – which creates a focal point in front of a bar and small library. Friendly staff – ever present but unobtrusive throughout our stay – are on hand to bring drinks and nibbles, attend to guests' queries and offer assistance.

In the dining area to the other side of the main tent, tables are placed under ceiling fans, as well as on the deck looking over the river. Outdoor lounge areas, with a mix of wooden and wicker furniture, are shaded by large cream umbrellas on a series of split-level decks leading down to a firepit and jetty.

Activities included at Old Drift Lodge are varied: game drives into the Zambezi National Park, river cruises, guided walking safaris, lunch at the Lookout Café and a guided tour of the Falls (excluding entry fees to the falls which need to be paid direct).

Extra activities, which incur an additional cost, include fishing and canoeing, as well as microlight and helicopter flights and a variety of adrenalin activities – all can be arranged through the lodge's reception. Note, though, that some of these activities can get booked up a while in advance, so do chat to us about the options before your trip.

If you're heading into Victoria Falls town for activities you'll either be driven in, or you could be transferred by the lodge's motorboat, which cruises between here and the Old Drift's own jetty, opposite Kalunda Island, just a short drive from town. For any activities that will keep you in town for the full day, lunch is included at their sister establishment, the Lookout Café, a large open-sided restaurant and bar in a stunning location atop the Batoka Gorge.

Conservation/Botswana Safari Company recommends Old Drift as a fabulous luxury, safari stay in Vic Falls,  conveniently close to the falls with high levels of hospitality.

Rates include all meals, local drinks and select safari activities.

Kanana is located in the southwest of the Okavango Delta, an area that encompasses a necklace of islands dotted with palms, figs, ebony and knobthorn, and is home to a myriad of birds, plants and animals. The nature of the habitat means it is the perfect place to experience the diversity of species found within the Okavango Delta. Guests are accommodated in spacious, twin-bedded safari tents (including a family tent), each with en-suite bathrooms with shower, hot and cold running water and flush toilet. The tents are well spaced, affording privacy whilst remaining within comfortable distance from the main camp area.

The annual floods transform parts of this concession into a true water paradise, offering guests the best of both worlds. At certain times of the year guests can experience magnificent game sightings during drives as well as the unique experience of exploring the delta’s beautiful waterways by boat. You may actually enjoy the breathtaking spectacle of the water visibly rising around the camp’s raised teak decks. The camp's activities vary with the rising and falling levels of the Okavango Delta and include morning and late afternoon game drives in open safari vehicles, with afternoon game drives often continuing into the evening. Alternatively you may explore the crystal clear waterways by Mokoro or motorboat, and enjoy the magnificent variety of birds, plant and reptile species found in the area. Birding is spectacular, and Kanana hosts a seasonal heronry that teems with activity, a Kanana highlight which converts all visitors to avid ‘twitchers’. Guided bush walks are highly recommended as is fishing for tilapia, African pike and sharptooth catfish.

Conservation/Botswana Safari Company recommends Kanana for its excellent staff and hospitality and for its traditional tented camp offering in a very beautiful part of the delta. A favourite for all clients who have been there! As part of its’ social responsibility program, your stay at the lodge supports Bana Ba Letsatsi. Bana Ba Letsatsi (which means Children of the sun) is a charity that was established in 2004 with the mission of supporting vulnerable, orphaned and at risk children living in Maun. There are over 200 children on the register; these children are registered as they have either never been to school or dropped out, suffer sexual or physical abuse, are orphaned or lack parental care, beg, work under-age, abuse drugs.

Rates include all meals and snacks, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, game activities conducted by professional guides, daily laundry service, all taxes, park entrance fees and service charges, emergency evacuation insurance (to regional medical facility)