Bush & Beach Southern Africa

Game drives are conducted twice a day (early morning, and late afternoon/ evening) in open 4-wheel drive safari vehicles. The rangers are in constant radio communication with one another to keep each other informed about the location of wildlife. Headsets are used for this purpose so as not to interrupt the sounds of the African bush. The 4-wheel drive safari vehicles enable the rangers to leave the road and provide guests with close up game viewing and fantastic photographic opportunities. Night drives, with the aid of powerful spotlights, bring the bush to life at night.

Visitors may head out on foot with their armed ranger. The perspective of the bush is entirely different to that of a vehicle, and guests will learn to read the signs of the wild, and perhaps come into close contact with the different animal species on the reserve.

MalaMala offers a unique destination from which to exchange vows – one that will never be forgotten. For the couple who seeks an intimate destination, without “frills” but with a heart of warm African hospitality, beautiful sunsets, panoramic views and beautiful accommodation – MalaMala is the place for romance.

Following the exhausting wedding preparations and the excitement of the “Big Day”, where better to escape to than a place buried in the wild of Africa. No cell phones, no traffic, no clutter – just pure peace, silence, and unspoiled rugged bushveld.

MalaMala offers equal measures of privacy, romance, good company, romantic sunsets, action-packed game drives and excellent sumptuous cuisine.

Snorkelling is ideal for those who do not wish to do a scuba diving accreditation but who want to confidently explore the shallower coral reefs, situated off Benguerra Island, with the help of a snorkel.

A guided snorkelling course is also available at an additional cost, offered by andBeyond’s Benguerra Island specialist dive masters, and covers safety procedures, equipment, currents and suggested snorkelling spots.

Hop aboard a traditional dhow (a wooden sailing vessel owned by one of the local people of the island and mostly used for fishing). A friendly fisherman will fetch you from your Casita or Cabana in the late afternoon, where you will board his dhow for an unforgettable cruise around the bay.

The adventure can be tailored according to your requirements and varies from a 30 minute trip to the school or 2 hours around the Island. The journey will take you past the lakes and dunes on the northern side of the island, past the school, the church and through the village so you can interact with some of the local people and find out more about the community projects that are run on the island.

Spend an afternoon indulging on a mouth-watering “Cast-Away” picnic and explore the highest dune in the Bazaruto Archipelago. You will have the opportunity to simply put your feet up and enjoy the breathtaking, 360 degree views of South Point – bring your camera along for excellent photographic opportunities and keep a look out for frolicking dolphins at play.

Additional costs apply on a Full Board rate only.

If you have previous diving experience then you can enjoy a fantastic excursion to the Bazaruto Archipelago, accompanied by the lodge guide. Those with limited to no diving experience can enjoy a guided introduction to a whole new world of mystery, wonder and beauty!
Dives sites vary according to experience and requests.

A full PADI certification required.

Additional costs apply on a Full Board rate only.

Horseback riding is the perfect activity to take in the exceptional beauty of Benguerra Island.
Enjoy a different perspective of this piece of paradise, at a pace that is comfortable for you. Nine horses and a dedicated guide, based at Benguerra Lodge, are on hand to introduce you to fantastic trails (suitable for all riding levels from first time to experienced riders and with a 85kg weight restriction).

Additional costs apply on a Full Board rate only.

Experience Mozambique from above. Hop aboard a helicopter and fly along the coastline of Benguerra Island and marvel at the crystal clear water and pristine white beaches with a bird’s eye view.

Additional costs apply.

Equine enthusiasts of all ages, and riding levels, will have the memorable opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled Swimming with Horses adventure, on &Beyond Benguerra Island. Dress down for the occasion, in just your swimwear, and ride bareback into azure waters, floating amongst the waves on top of your mount. Expect plentiful splashing, and bouts of laughter, as the horses absolutely love to frolic in the ocean. Afterwards, hop off your steed and allow them to enjoy a well-deserved roll on the beach. This 30 to 45 minute adventure allows for a maximum of 4 guests per swim and is perfect as a standalone activity or can be added after a more extensive horseback exploration of the island. The Swimming with Horses activity is seasonal as well as weather and tide dependent.

Additional costs apply.

andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.

&Beyond has partnered with Healing Earth, a leading natural, eco-friendly and holistic spa & skincare company, to produce a truly authentic African spa experience for the mind, body and soul. Therapeutic in its approach,Healing Earth only uses all-natural ingredients and essential oils. The luxuriant spa products & soothing treatments are inspired by the wisdom of Africa’s traditional healers & celebrate our continent’s vibrant heritage, communities and plant life.

The Great Heart Wines Boutique recalibrates the notion of an ‘intimate’ and ‘personalized’ wine tasting with availability for a table that sits four guests at a time for Le Quartier Français and Leeu House guests only. Non-resident guests are welcome to enjoy the tasting option by making a booking at Protégé (right across from the Boutique). These wines can also be purchased at the Boutique.

Great Heart is the staff empowerment project of Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, known for their multi-award winning Leeu Passant and Mullineux wineries. Aimed at improving the livelihoods of those who work for the company as well as their families, the Great Heart wine brand is collectively owned by the winery staff, and a portion of all sales under this label go directly to them.

Set among the vineyards, Leeu Spa by Healing Earth is an immersive wellness sanctuary that offers holistic treatments and experiences by expert therapists. The tailor-made offerings are inspired by Africa’s rich natural resources, with a unique focus on the myriad therapeutic benefits of South Africa’s unique Pinotage grape. Pure and premium natural products from leading holistic wellness brand Healing Earth are used in the memorable treatments.

A range of treatments for children (aged six to 12) is also on offer.

Leeu Spa is situated at Leeu Estates, a 3km drive from Le Quartier Français. Scheduled transfers between our properties is available.

Leeu Collection guests are invited to take advantage of fine Franschhoek weather and the beautiful surroundings at Leeu Estates to indulge in a picnic basket filled with delicious treats. Enjoy the sweeping views of valley and mountains with a glass of fine wine in hand, and a perfect al fresco repast. Think local cheeses and charcuterie with house-made Estates preserves, fresh fruit and crackers etc.. All this and more will create lasting memories to take home.

Terms and conditions apply.

Offered to in-house guests only.

Picnic orders must be placed 48 hours in advance.
Weather dependent.
Only available at allocated picnic spots on Leeu Estates.
Scheduled transfers between our properties are available.

The Wine Studio offers a truly immersive wine experience. Housed on Leeu Estates, it is run by the Mullineux & Leeu team, whose knowledgeable tasting room staff will guide guests in the finer nuances of these handcrafted wines.

A complimentary Signature Tasting is offered to Leeu Estates guests only. Guests at Leeu House and Le Quartier Français are welcome to book a wine tasting experience at the Wine Studio during their stay. Scheduled transfers between our properties is available.

Indaba – The Meeting Place at Leeu Estates is a state-of-the-art multipurpose event and meeting venue for inhouse Leeu Collection guests. Inspiring artworks enhance this multipurpose venue and private terrace, designed for a variety of functions: Press briefings, seminars, business meetings, exhibitions and launches.

Indaba, which is 140 square metres (1 510 square feet) in size and has its own lift, boasts wireless audio and video conferencing equipment, a 203-centimetre (80-inch) television screen and high-speed Wi-Fi.

The different types of set up Indaba can accommodate for:
Boardroom – 22 guests
Schoolroom – 28 guests
Cinema – 60 guests
Cocktail - 60 guests

Catering for Indaba is done by The Dining Room culinary team.
Scheduled transfers between our properties is available.

Other activities within Franschhoek that can be arranged via our Concierge includes:

- Franschhoek Wine Tram (www.winetram.co.za)
- Hiking in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve (www.montrochellehiking.co.za)
- Franschhoek Motor Museum (www.fmm.co.za)
- Various full day and half day wine tours
- Franschhoek Huguenot Monument (www.museum.co.za)