Category: 2019

A Whirlwind Adventure

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Deborah and Jim Mills have just settled back in New Zealand after an unforgettable trip to Africa. They went on a whirlwind adventure from North Eastern Tanzania to the award-winning Londolozi. They certainly had a magical trip and plan to return in 2021. Deb and Jim have very kindly shared some of their experiences from their trip and a few tips for those visiting soon:

“Iconic Africa did it again! A trip to Africa that felt like something out of a National Geographic production. Absolutely awesome.” – Bev Mills 

“We fell in love with the bush 12 years ago in the Sabi Sands on an excursion offered after a conference. Our first sighting was a giraffe ambling across the road, later came the elephants, leopards and lions. We only stayed four nights, but immediately began to plan our return. While sitting in the Federal Air terminal, I picked up a book, “I Speak of Africa” by Shan Varty and Molly Buchanon, and I was hooked. It was clear that Londolozi had to be part of our next trip, and it has continued to be the anchor to our travels on each of our visits. It was at Londolozi that we met John Holley, now of Iconic Africa, who introduced us to the fabulous bush, as well as South African hospitality. Subsequently, the Iconic Africa team has planned many more adventures for us, always choosing the perfect lodges and locations.

Our trip this year in late July, early August, to Tanzania and South Africa was spectacular. We stayed at the Arusha Coffee Lodge, the Mara River Camp and Faru Faru in Tanzania, and Tswalu and Londolozi in South Africa.

There were so many highlights. The trip to Arusha National Park provided the opportunity to photograph the colobus monkeys, and to see an albino baboon. Our guide, Antony Kivuko, positioned us perfectly so that we could spend an extended period photographing the monkeys, with no one else around.

It was our second visit to the Mara River Tented Camp, and it felt like coming home. The people there are special. Herman Charles, our butler/waiter, was a pure delight, teaching us phrases in Swahili and treating us like members of the family. Benson Mboya, our ranger, got us into the perfect position for each of the crossings. The crossings were an amazing experience. We could not believe the number of wildebeest in the Serengeti, and we saw at least half of the three million. We felt like we were in a National Geographic moment. Another highlight was seeing a herd of sixteen elephants crossing the Mara River. After watching the frenzied crossing of the wildebeest, the elephants were majestic and graceful, a sight that we will never forget. For anyone who wants to see the migration and a river crossing, The Mara River Camp is the perfect location.

Faru Faru provides a great opportunity to see the Serengeti Plains. We would definitely like to stay there longer next time. There were two special sightings at Faru Faru, the tree-climbing lions and the zebra migration at the water hole. It is also a great spot to view cheetahs.

Tswalu is very different, with the red sand desert and rocky mountains. It is a great place to see pangolin, aardvark, bat-eared foxes and meerkats. They let you get out of the range rover and follow the pangolin and aardvark on foot. For the meerkats, you arrive early in the morning, just as they are beginning to come out of the dens and acclimate to the cold. You are also able to get out of the vehicle to observe and photograph them. Winter is a great time to go because the nocturnal animals are out earlier and are easier to find. Tswalu also has a number of wild dogs, as well as cheetah, lions and rhino.

Our final stop was Londolozi, which never disappoints. There were leopards everywhere, as usual. The leaves were not out on many trees, making it excellent for photographing leopards. Seeing the three Birmingham male lions, along with the Ntsevu lionesses and cubs walk by the land rover was breathtaking. On our last day, we had the opportunity to view a cheetah, much to the delight of all. Londolozi is still is the best for consistent wildlife viewing that we have experienced, in terms of both variety and density. However, it is not only the wildlife that makes Londolozi special. The people, the culture and the environment all contribute to the magic of the place. Our guide, Alex Jordan, is an excellent photographer and he gave us new tips and also helped us edit photos in the studio. Our tracker, Lucky, was excellent, always able to read the tracks and the signs to find the elusive leopard. Pioneer is our favourite camp, and Trevor and Tais made us feel right at home.

And lastly…

Bev Van Schoor of Iconic Africa has repeatedly developed itineraries that have exceeded our dreams, as well as our expectations. We are so thankful for Bev’s patience and attention to detail that makes this experience absolutely worry-free. Thank you, Bev. We are looking forward to our next adventure.”

A big thank you to Deb and Jim – we look forward to having you back on African soil in 2021…

Magical Mozambican Moments

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Mozambique is a sensory overload of beauty, wilderness, culture and flavour flanked by 2400kms of silky white beaches. Dotted along the astonishing coastline, little pieces of African paradise that literally are some of the last tropical, wild, island sanctuaries in the world. 

Mozambique is a one-of-kind holiday and one that everyone deserves to experience. In case you are not so sure what awaits you, here are 10 magical Mozambican moments you can look forward to:

Swimming full perimeters of idyllic islands if you are lucky with dolphins

Sunbathing under lazy palms on pristine white sandy beaches that go on for days

Snorkelling through hundreds and colours of beautiful sea life

Indulging in a refreshingly ice-cold Tipo Tintos (Rum and Raspberry cola)

Delighting in a spicy peri-peri chicken 

A big welcome from the lovely, smiley locals

Unprecedented luxury and an overwhelming sense of space 

Magnificent, seafood, juicy mangoes and crunchy cashew nuts

Night swims in warm water with luminous, glittering phytoplankton 

Tranquillity, serenity and romance like nowhere else in the world

Mozambique is a symbol of hope, beauty and possibility. Benguerra and Quilalea present the most luxurious and secluded ways to relish the legendary islands drifting off the ancient coast. Click here to experience the splendour of a once-in-a-lifetime Mozambique island holiday.

Ocean Safaris Mozambique Zanzibar Iconic Africa

An African Romance at Londolozi

Posted on by Lexi Hall
Londolozi was voted Best Resort In South Africa: Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2019. No wonder Carmen Shui chose to spend her honeymoon there – in absolute luxury amongst Africa’s most sought-after wildlife and wilderness. This magnificent property exceeds all expectations, but often cannot be described adequately with just words. Carmen has very kindly shared with us some of the breathtaking wildlife photographs that she captured whilst on her romantic stay in the bush. Scroll down here for her full photo story…

Enlivened by Africa

Posted on by Lexi Hall

As we conclude a very busy and fulfilling year, we would like to take some time to stop and reflect on what Africa means to us and how this beautiful continent has influenced, inspired and moved us. A memorable trip that immediately comes to mind is an action-packed adventure in East Africa that served as incredible food for the soul. It reminded me of just how powerful and magical Africa is and what it can do for you both inside and out.

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So much of the first world and what we believe is normal life is left behind when you go to Africa.

Time becomes irrelevant, phones and communication impossible, consumerism no longer and worries a distant thing of the past.

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Embraced entirely in the present, you are able to fully appreciate everything about that very moment. Sights become brighter, sounds louder, smells more intense, and feelings more honest and accessible.

Life as you know it begins to fade away. Your heart slows down to the beat of the bushveld; your shoulders feel light and your laughter unbridled.

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A transformation is happening as you slowly unravel and join the peace and the pace of the exquisite creatures we share this earth with.

You rise and fall with the sun, beginning and ending each day with awe and appreciation.

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In between this, you are entirely enamoured by nature, its wonders, intricacies and surprises. From the habits of a herd of elephants to the quirky determination of the wildebeest, to the focus and agility of the pied kingfisher, to the mating habits of the crowned cranes…there is so much to take in.

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You breathe out, your eyes are open and focussed on the landscape around you, your ears listening intently and your mind free.

It is impossible to take it all in but you make a concerted effort to be fully present; to be fully available to enjoy every minute of what Africa has in store for you.

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There is so much the bush can teach you, so much goodness, so many life lessons and behaviours that you can take home with you.

Let it fill your heart and soul. Let it complete you, one sighting, one story and one sundowner at a time.

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Stop thinking I should go to Africa one day or I’d love to go back. It’s more than just an item on your bucket list it’s a life-changing experience and you won’t ever regret it.

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Africa is here waiting for you and it will make you feel more alive than you ever thought possible.

Graham Wood Returns to Londolozi 

Posted on by Lexi Hall

What better way to end the year than with another remarkable collection of videos taken by our very own, great friend and photographer, @grahamwoodphoto. His wildlife images are always worth a thousand words and his videos inspire the wanderlust in us all. Let these 3 short videos subdue your safari cravings until you make your next trip to Africa to see the wild dogs, leopards and the rest of our exquisite wildlife.

Introducing Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sands

Posted on by Lexi Hall

A bold departure from its humble safari lodge beginnings, Cheetah Plains has undergone a complete metamorphosis. Today, it is a beacon to the eco-luxe safari set and a collaborative expression of South Africa’s rich heritage. Proud owner, Japie van Niekerk’s vision for the property is finally realised. By harnessing the power of eco-tourism, we are working hard to secure a rich legacy of posterity.

Cheetah Plains shares a fenceless border to the east with the vast, world-famous Kruger National Park and its southern border with the esteemed Mala Mala Game Reserve.  Cheetah Plains’ prime location within the inimitable Sabi Sands delivers a prolific, sustainable safari experience facilitated by the natural movement of wildlife over this vast land, fiercely protected under conservation.

Luxury eco-accommodation

A sophisticated, innovative eco-luxe safari experience for the modern age, the private Plains Houses provide a sensual backdrop to your private safari experience. The imaginative, honest architecture is complemented by restful interiors that invite the outside in.  The muted palette of the interior design imbued with warm, natural elements is enhanced with handpicked decor pieces by notable African artisans.

Perfect for an exclusive family safari or a party of friends the luxurious, private Plains Houses accommodate a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 guests per house.

The location and unique appointment of each Plains House is a beautiful rendering of its environment.

Each house essentially takes the same form comprising two parts: the shared space and the accommodation.  Your exclusive safari hideaway provides you and your party a private bush retreat unlike any other.

The shared space boasts a formal lounge, living room, dining area, expansive sun deck, heated swimming pool, wine gallery, chef’s kitchen and sumptuous Private Suites. 

The accommodation comprises four graciously appointed free-standing Private Suites, two of which inter-lead.

Each of the three exclusive-use Plains Houses at Cheetah Plains accommodates a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 guests per house, offering you and your safari companions the ultimate private safari experience in the splendid Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

A dedicated hospitality team consists of your host, private chef, field guide and tracker. They are allocated to your Plains House for the duration of your stay. Together, they deliver a safari experience tailored to you and your party’s individual preferences. 

Delicious meals and snacks made to exacting standards are prepared by your talented private chef.

Personal wellness is in the hands of your dedicated wellness therapist.

An immersive connection with nature is facilitated by the expert field guide and tracker team at your service.

Wine & Dine 

Each Plains House hosts a fine wine gallery comprising a purely South African wine selection curated to reflect Japie’s favourite estates and varietals.  

Your host will readily recommend a wine to pair with your beautiful meal. Explore the wonders of new world wines by embarking on a wine tasting hosted by the on-property Sommelier (available upon request).

The accomplished culinary team delivers imaginative, soulful meals that, when paired with characteristic wines, resulting in an elevated dining experience you will savour. Your dining expectations and requirements are an important element of your stay.

Cheetah Plains has an ‘open kitchen’ policy; you’re always welcome to pop in and see what is cooking!  If you like, join in the culinary action or just observe while having a relaxed chat with your chef.  Dining al fresco, preferably out in the bush, is always a highlight.  Fresh, locally sourced produce is our preference and supports the farm-to-table vision at Cheetah Plains.

We know you’ll love this new addition to our portfolio as much as we do and hope to see you back in Africa soon!

The Western Cape – A guide to good food and wine

Posted on by Lexi Hall

The Cape is known for its magnificent mountains, amazing scenery, gorgeous blue oceans, rich history, and, of course, its first-class wines and delicious food. We’ve compiled a list of our four favourite restaurants in the Cape that combine delectable food and award-winning wine.

Franschhoek Kitchen

If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town, it is essential to visit the Cape Winelands. Franschhoek is our absolute favourite wine district. We recommend visiting the Franschhoek kitchen at the Holden Manz winery. It has been rated as one of the leading restaurants in Franschhoek and it is regarded as one of South Africa’s culinary hotspots. 

The restaurant is the perfect place to relax and enjoy bistro-style food made from delicious, locally sourced ingredients. Because they are a sustainability farm, they emphasise seasonal ingredients which means that their menu changes regularly. Franschhoek Kitchen also provides beautifully presented picnic baskets filled with absolutely delicious and fresh treats, so that you can enjoy a long summer afternoon resting by the picturesque Franschhoek River. You will also have a chance to try their beautifully fragrant Rosé, their barrel-fermented Chardonnay, and their decadent port-style wines.

Fyndraai Restaurant

At the 320-year-old Solms-Delta estate, you will discover the Fyndraai Restaurant—a restaurant that offers traditional Cape cuisine with a contemporary twist. The dishes aim to promote the assorted culinary heritage of the Cape, and you will therefore find that the dishes showcase European, Asian, and African flavours. Many of the rare and indigenous herbs are grown on the farm. You can opt for the tasty, four-course heritage menu, or you can choose to have a wine pairing menu that lets guests sample six glasses of the estate’s wines and six tasty tapas. The estate also allows guests to picnic on its grounds, and the Fyndraai Restaurant creates delicious picnic hampers for its guests.

Greenhouse (Constantia)

If classic elegance is what you’re after, we suggest visiting the Greenhouse. The cuisine is created by the famous Peter Tempelhoff who emphasises the importance of complementary tastes and aromas. For these chefs, ingredients must have meaning and purpose, and they aim to showcase the beauty of South Africa through their cooking. The menu also features some of the best wines from Constantia, and the restaurant pairs its wines beautifully. Greenhouse welcomes new Head Chef, Farrel Hirsch to its kitchen as of November 2018, and can look forward to Hirsch’s flair for innovation and fresh flavours. 

La Colombe

La Colombe is certainly worth a visit if you want to treat yourself to the ultimate fine dining experience. This spectacular restaurant earned its place among the top 100 restaurants in the world in 2016. The restaurant is situated at the Silvermist wine estate on top of Constantia Nek and it has magnificent views of Constantia Valley and Hout Bay. The chefs use ingredients that are sourced from the restaurant’s own organic gardens and therefore, the menu is also a seasonal one. Each dish is perfectly and beautifully presented, and the vibrant colours and flavours of the dishes combine together to create a unique cuisine adventure. The menu pays tribute to deliciously fresh seafood which is an absolute treat when you’re dining in the Cape.

Complete your safari with tasty food, plated beautifully, overlooking breath-taking views the next time you’re in Cape Town.

Treasures of Tanzania

Posted on by Lexi Hall

This once-in-a-lifetime tour offers travellers only the very best in Tanzanian hospitality. Experience heart-stopping sightings of Africa’s rare wildlife; see some of the world’s most beautiful sunset spots and take in all the exquisite scenery and landscapes. 

From the volcanically rich soil to the lush forests, interminable golden savannahs, pearly white sands, snow-capped peaks, baobab clusters, lush swamps, fields of sunflowers and a constantly overwhelming sense of space, there is so much to explore.

This tour is a journey through all of Tanzania’s most luxurious treasures. From the heart of Tanzanian coffee and culture in Arusha, to the slow safari wonders of Chem Chem to the endless plains of the Serengeti and finally up to the Northern Serengeti where all the action happens. This tour offers the ultimate in colonial and opulent Tanzanian hospitality, unforgettable safari encounters, sumptuous luxury and endless breath-taking landscapes.

See the full itinerary below:

 

DAY 1: ONLY THE VERY BEST TANZANIAN COFFEE AND CULTURE

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Arusha Coffee Lodge is a delightful sanctuary of aromas, gourmet food and vibrant gardens located on the expansive grounds of a verdant coffee plantation. Take residence in one of 30 luxury rooms – 12 Plantation Suites and 18 Plantation Rooms – all to be found within the 15 wooden chalets nestled amongst the surrounding gardens.

Both boast menus to satisfy the most discerning of palates, successfully fusing international culinary prowess with locally-sourced ingredients. The café bistro also has a wood-fired pizza oven. Other culinary delights include a 4-course alfresco buffet hosted daily in the garden.

Visitors are also welcome to enjoy convenient gift shopping at the Traders Walk Boutiques, located on-site. Browse through a collection of five boutiques offering arts and crafts, jewellery and clothing, gourmet coffee and cakes and Swahili food.

DAY 2 – 3: THE ULTIMATE SLOW SAFARI

Little Chem Chem

Known as the sunrise camp, Little Chem Chem is situated on the edge of an acacia forest. The camp is surrounded by the characteristic landscape of the Tarangire River with its impressive Baobab trees and overlooks the freshwater lake, Lake Burunge. The Babati mountain range offers a magnificent backdrop to the south-west, with the distant hills of Tarangire visible to the north-east. The atmosphere at Little Chem Chem is welcoming, elegant and oozing authenticity of a bygone era. The luxury of sharing 16’000ha with only 10 guests sets the ideal stage where you can perfectly blend into the wilderness. Lions roam the camp and call each other at night; stately elephants march down to Lake Burunge to get a sprinkling of freshwater; cheetahs hunt on the plains facing the lake; leopards, eland and lesser kudu can be seen in the more dense woods in the inner part of the concession. 

Accommodation: Chem Chem

DAY 4 – 5: ENDLESS SAVANNAHS AND INCREDIBLE GAME ENCOUNTERS

andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp

Famed for its endless grasslands and excellent wildlife sightings, the open plains of the magnificent Serengeti National Park are home to 35 species of plains-dwelling games, as well as prolific birdlife. andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp is set in the remote western reaches of the park, on a by-water of the Grumeti River, known for its dramatic wildebeest crossings and enormous Nile crocodiles. Tucked into a strip of riverine forest, guests thrill to the antics of the hippo resident in the tranquil lagoon in front of the camp and the spectacular pied colobus monkeys, found nowhere else in the Serengeti.

Accommodation: Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp

DAY 6 – 8: A PEACEFUL HILL-TOP HAVEN OVERLOOKING THE EXQUISITE SERENGETI

Sayari

The award-winning Sayari Camp is renowned for extraordinary wildlife sightings and supreme comfort. Set on the unspoilt plains of the Northern Serengeti, close to the famous Lamai Wedge, Sayari gives you easy access to the Mara River and multiple river crossing points.

Sayari Camp offers some of the world’s finest game viewing – and it does so in remarkable style. Relax in your extra-comfortable hillside suite after a day on safari, or take a dip in the glorious rim-flow swimming pool with dramatic views over the northern plains. Intimate, contemporary and elegant, it is no surprise that this permanent camp is regularly voted one of the top safari escapes on the planet.

Accommodation: Sayari

Don’t waste time and miss out! Now is your chance to experience four unparalleled boutique and unique hospitality experiences. Fully immerse yourself into Tanzanian culture and experience in its entirety the wonder of the Serengeti.

*All flights, transfers and private guide included.

The Treasures of Tanzania is the ultimate way to experience three very unique and luxurious safari destinations, to enjoy and celebrate the incredible Tanzania culture and hospitality and to explore the endless savannahs of the world-renowned Serengeti.

In Pictures: Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp – Tanzania

Posted on by Lexi Hall

This property guarantees exceptional, exclusive game viewing in the Serengeti’s remote Western Corridor. Spend time with your loved one or family at a lush riverside escape and be at one with the African bush. 

Set in a wild and remote section of the Serengeti’s Western Corridor is a riverside paradise like no other. Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp was built for and inspired by the Great Migration as it sits minutes away from one of the key crossing points on the Grumeti River. This lush haven is the perfect way to escape from the crowds of the Greater Serengeti to relax, put your feet up, immerse yourself in nature and resign yourself to the fact that you don’t have to lift a finger in order to have the time of your life! 

Sightings an Exclusive Game Viewing Year Round

“This camp is great because it is the only camp on this side of the river. The area is not too populated, so game drives are better and there are not too many vehicles. This area has large herds of topis, lots of lion and lots of hyena. Also being close to the river there are lots of crocs, huge rafts of hippo and a very unique type of primate – the black and white colobus monkey. There is never a dull moment here.” Mussa, Camp Manager.

Set on the Quiet Banks of a Grumeti River Tributary

The ten ensuite tents are tucked into the shade of an evergreen forest on the banks of a tributary of the famous Grumeti River. As the sun rises, the bush comes to life and wakes up all around you. From buffalos to lions, to hyenas, to baboons you are fully immersed in the sounds and goings-on of the animals surrounding you. Sit in the coolness of your densely thatched shady suite, a much welcome retreat from the heat of the sun. From your own private patio watch the game drinking, the colobus monkeys playing or the sunbirds, kingfishers and starlings darting around in their daily routines. The natural hues of the suites will welcome you with open arms. Complete with spacious a writing desk, oversized beds, delicious snacks, the open-air stone tower outside shower and even gym in a bag there is nothing that you will want for.

Take a cool dip in the plunge pool on the edge of the river while you watch hippos having one too. Then relax on the decadent sun loungers as your personal butler brings you and iced cold Pimms and Lemonade.

andbeyond Hospitality at its Best

In true andBeyond style, the hospitality and service simply cannot be faulted. From the minute you arrive to a smiling welcome committee you feel completely at home and looked after. From your personal butler to the camp manager, to the waiters, guides and askaris all have a delightful way about them that warms your heart from the inside out. From a surprise sunset drink table set up in the middle of the savannah to a boma dinner laid out beautifully under a thousand twinkling lanterns, they will go to the ends of the earth to ensure you have the most memorable stay possible. 

Words can only convey so much, and so we would rather show you why this life-changing property should be right on top of your safari bucket list. The world-class hospitality can only be experienced first-hand, but we can tempt you with our hand-picked images of delicious boma dinners under a thousand twinkling lanterns, unbelievable wildlife encounters and the rustic yet sophisticated, luxury lodge.

Property of the Month: Chief’s Camp Botswana 

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Nestled on Chief’s Island – renowned for some of the best big game viewing in all of Africa – These twelve thatched pavilions, all with panoramic views of the Piajio floodplain, overlook the abundant herds of animals, and the prolific delta birdlife.   

This month’s property of the month is an understated, yet multi-award-winning luxury accommodation that boasts a delicious bush cuisine. 

Chief’s Camp is nestled on Chief’s Island – a verdant spit of land floating in the Okavango Delta. The island is renowned for some of the best big game viewing in all of Africa while the camp is a refined and polished tribute to the magnificent wilderness that is the Okavango. 

With just twelve generous thatched pavilions, all with panoramas of the Piajio floodplain, the abundant herds of animals, their stalking predators and the prolific delta birdlife is never more than a few steps away.

Palatial pavilions

The twelve gorgeous thatch and gauze pavilions at Chief’s Camp are airy islands of serenity. Each vaunts an ample king-size bedroom that leads to a separate lounge area. The bathrooms have both inside and outside showers and the private decks afford beautiful vistas from the shade of giant sausage trees where you might while away the midday from the comfort of an inviting armchair – a herd of elephants browsing below.

The main dining, sitting, pool and boma areas are set in the shade of giant trees and raised on expansive decking that extends onto the Piajio floodplain. From the comfort of the leather sofas, wicker chairs and dark wood chaise longue next to the pool, you can sip your favourite cocktail or read a tome of Africa, looking up every-so-often to watch the miracle of life unfolding in the floodplain below.

Chief’s Camp takes pride in creating gastronomic delights to compliment the scenic wonder of the venue you choose. You might opt for private dining on your deck to the symphony of a million frogs or you perhaps dine out on the floodplain under a billion African stars.

The Piajio Floodplain

In summer (November to April), the Piajio is dryer and there will be huge herds of plains game like lechwe, impala and zebra grazing as they watch for predators. In winter (May to August), the floodplain is inundated, and you will delight in the antics of the frogs, birds and fish while elephant bulls feed on the fringes or cross from one side to the other.

Exploring Chief’s Island

Perhaps the current highlight of Chief’s Island is the rhino re-introduction programme. Seeing one of these prehistoric giants returned to this phenomenal area is tear-jerking experience. If you are not looking for rhino, you might be watching cheetah stalking one of the many herds of red lechwe on the fringes of the plain. 

In the misty morning, you could follow large pride of lions on the fresh tracks of a herd of buffalo and in the dimming gold of the afternoon, you could be fortunate enough to encounter one of the many leopards of the island – completely unfazed by your presence.

When the floodwaters are up, discovering the wonders of the channels from a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) is another-worldly experience as you float among the reeds, the frogs and the inexhaustible birdlife while a surfeit of mammals feed at the water’s edge.

One jewel in a treasure trove

Whether you are a family on an adventure or a couple looking for romance, southern Africa has some incredible destinations. Iconic Africa recommends that you begin your African holiday in the Cape – either in Cape Town where the beaches, bars, mountain and restaurants will enthral you, or in the gorgeous wine lands of the Franschhoek Valley. From the Cape, Chief’s Island is the next destination and then it’s on to the majesty, mystery and adventure of the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe. A luxury Kruger Park safari in the world-famous Sabi Sands is the perfect ending to the African adventure of a lifetime.

Chiefs Camp is an unassuming luxury in one of the Okavango Delta’s most revered locations! Over the years Chiefs Camp has received world acclaim for its world-class luxury safari experience. Finding availability is thus not easy so do not hesitate in contacting one of our African travel experts and begin your journey to Africa with us now!

48 Hours in Cape Town

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Many travellers think that the highlight of Cape Town is the many beautiful vineyards that surround the outer lying areas. While visiting the wineries and sipping on South Africa’s local red’s and whites is a definite must-do, there is so much more to this coastal city than relaxing above rolling hills in the country. The city centre has everything from fun on the beach, hiking and kite-surfing to shopping and dining all within a short distance drive from each other. 

Here are a few tips for what to do, where to shop and where to eat if you only have 48 hours to absorb everything Cape Town has to offer. 

 

What to Do

Robben Island Museum

After a multimillion-dollar renovation, the Robben Island Museum, where former President Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison during apartheid, reopened to the public in 1997. Take a ferry from a waterfront terminal to what used to be the island’s maximum-security prison, where they see Mandela’s cell. Here you will also be able to see the African penguin and herds of springbok. 

Table Mountain National Park 

Take the cable car up to the often-foggy top of Table Mountain. This expansive flat surface is the Table Mountain National Park, which dominates this city’s every vista. The aerial cableway reaches the top in five minutes or hike this magnificent mountain via the steep path all the way to the summit. Once there, replenish at the Table Mountain Café. 

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 

At the foot of Table Mountain and covering more than 1,235 acres, the Kirstenbosch National Botanic Garden was the first garden devoted to indigenous flora. This garden also has several easy-to-follow trails that wind through fynbos and forest and even end up at the top of Table Mountain. In summer, evening concerts and open-air cinema screenings bring out residents and tourists in droves.

Where to Shop

Green Market Square

Situated in the CBD, on a tree-shaded, cobbled square in the business district, this open-air market has aisles packed with jewellery, textiles, paintings, and curiosities from every corner of South Africa. Listen to local musicians play as you browse and shop.  

 

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront 

This is Cape Town’s most popular shopping centre. Surrounded by sea-views, a harbour, exclusive restaurants and world-class shopping with more than 450 retail outlets. Check out the Victorian Gothic-style clock tower and then catch a ride on the 131-foot-high observation wheel.

 

Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village

Surrounding an outdoor courtyard in the chic Green Point neighbourhood, the Quarter sells contemporary African crafts, locally designed fashions, and home decor. It is designed in the Cape Malay architectural style influenced by the area’s Dutch settlers, with dark beams and multicoloured facades.

 

The Red Shed Craft Workshop

Located on the V&A Waterfront, this experience provides an alternative to mall shopping. Browse stalls for recycled-glass vases, antique silver jewellery from Ethiopia, and hand-painted cushions in safari animal shapes.

 

Where to Eat

Long Street

Long Street is the hub of the CBD where all the tourists flock to for the vibrant nightlife. Here you will find one-of-a-kind shops and eateries in every price range, open until early morning. The menu at Long Street Café, located in a former bookstore offers a diverse range from Thai wraps to waffles and ice cream. 

 

Lola

Down the street, Lola’s has a wide range of meals from sweet corn fritters, anchovies on toast to steamed west coast mussels. 

 

Camps Bay Retreat

If you’re spending a day to the beach or heading for a Sunday Drive past the sandy beaches, plan to stop at Camps Bay Retreat. They hold a traditional South African braai (barbecue) on Wednesdays and Saturdays amid impeccable lawns, herb gardens, and restored fynbos. Or stopover for some fresh scones while taking in the view. 

Roundhouse 

A repurposed former 1786 guard station now features contemporary South African cuisine and a long wine list. If you’re looking for something more casual with a great view, try the Rumbullion. They serve picnic-style breakfasts and lunch pizzas with expansive views of Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.

 

La Perla 

Marlene Dietrich once ate here, and this Sea Point spot has become a local legend since opening in 1959. Stick to the fresh seafood, and request a seat on the recently refurbished terrace, a popular spot for “sundowners”.

For more on the magnificent Mother City and our best spots to stay there click here. 

A BIG thank you to our travellers

Posted on by Lexi Hall

The end of the year is on us again and it’s time to reflect on all the wonderful moments the year has brought us. We have had the privilege of making many traveller’s safari dreams come true and we can’t wait to take you on more adventures! 

We’d like to take this opportunity to send a very special thank you to all our clients who have taken the time to review us on Trustpilot. We appreciate your continuous support and are thrilled that we have could be a part of your unforgettable African memories. 

We’ve had a look through our 2019 reviews and here are some of our favourites:

***

Pete Shelton – Absolutely the best!

Iconic was absolutely fantastic and exceeded our expectations with everything we did. All the drivers and guides were always helpful, kind, knowledgeable and always on time. There were no issues with any of the accommodation reservations, plane tickets or transfers. The itinerary was phenomenal and we would not change a thing. We will absolutely use Iconic the next time we venture to Africa (which we all are hoping will be sooner than later!).

 

Philip Jackman – Courteous, timely and very knowledgeable service!

Iconic Africa provided a truly unique travel experience and I would highly recommend their services to anyone travelling in and around South Africa. All of the lodging accommodations were first-rate in terms of service, food and location (urban and on safari). The guided tour recommendations were also well organized and easy to choose, and there was no pressure to choose a high-priced option over the more economical options. The tour companies are all well run, and every driver was on time and well trained about the tourist sites. Every step of the way, Iconic Africa was only a phone call or a WhatsApp message away for answering questions.

 

Christine Tessler – Our trip to Africa was outstanding

Our trip to Africa was outstanding! A highlight of the trip was how informative and knowledgeable the guides were, they made our trip so much more than we had hoped for. Every andBeyond place we stayed made us feel welcomed and cared for, we couldn’t have asked for anything more. Every detail was taken care of by Iconic Africa, they made our vacation one we will never forget. Thank you for everything!

Bev van Schoor was so helpful when we had questions and she listened to what we wanted and gave us so much more! I highly recommend her and Iconic Africa!

 

Phillip Vecchio – Treated like your memories matter

Iconic Africa treats you as if one of their own. Rather than sell tours or experiences, they read who you are, care about that mix, understand your reasons for travel and then give you a lifetime of indelible memories

 

Bob Pearlman – Iconic Africa is a top-notch…

Iconic Africa is a top-notch organization and extremely knowledgeable about travelling in southern Africa, especially as it has to do with safaris. They handled everything from start to finish (in Africa – we were responsible for arranging our flights to Johannesburg and back), including all transfers and flights within Africa, practically without a hitch (nobody’s perfect). Accommodations were mostly top of the line, and we had an excellent all-around experience.

 

Geri Potter – The Iconic Africa team were a dream to…

The Iconic Africa team were a dream to work with. They were able to, not only tick every box on our bucket list, but also provide us with a first-class experience from beginning to end. From the volcanic Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania to Victoria Falls, Zambia, a tented safari at Singita Mara to a gorgeous cabin at Singita Kwitonda and a hotel suite at The Cape Grace at the foot of Table Mountain, gorilla in Rwanda to elephant, lion, leopard and everything in between in Tanzania and, our favorite, the leopards of Londolozi! Iconic Africa can do it all! Thank you, John, Lauren and Terri!!

We can’t wait to have you back on African soil again soon. Until then…