Iconic Africa Wins Another Award

We’re thrilled to announce that Iconic Africa has won yet another honour in the annual LUXLife Travel Awards, this year being announced as the 

Best Global Boutique Safari Business 2024

LUXLlife focuses on a range of topics within the luxury lifestyle industry, and with their circulation extending to almost 100 000 readers, we are incredibly excited to have achieved such recognition within this space.

The combination of the words “Global” and  “Boutique” are what we enjoyed most about the award; we feels the almost paradoxical combination sums us up accurately. We have guests who travel from all over the world to visit Africa in all her magnificence, yet we have remained a small company, not looking to expand too much, keeping true to our roots as

 

To quote their website:

“The LUXLife awards celebrate the tradition of acknowledging unparalleled achievements and exceptional creativity in the realm of luxury. These distinguished awards are their way of honouring the leaders and pioneers who redefine excellence within our industry. This section is dedicated to those who inspire with their visionary contributions and consistently set higher standards of sophistication and elegance.”

The travel and tourism industry has long been a vital part of the world economy, contributing significantly to employment, market development, and cultural exchange. Despite the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the sector has now fully recovered, bolstered by strong consumer demand, emerging technology and trends, and an eagerness to return to exploring the world. The World Travel & Tourism Council expected 2025 to be a record-breaking year, with the market’s global economic contribution set to hit an all-time high of over $11 trillion!

There are a variety of trends that are boosting performance and rapidly reshaping the travel and tourism space; more and more travellers are choosing eco-friendly options, along with lodges that dhow a genuine commitment to social upliftment and environmental consciousness.

Moreover, the blending of business and leisure travel continues to rise, with more professionals extending work trips to enjoy personal time at their destination. Digital transformation is also playing a crucial role, as innovations like contactless check-ins and AI-powered travel recommendations enhance the convenience and personalization of travel. Additionally, wellness tourism remains a strong growth area, with more travellers looking to focus on mental and physical well-being.

Iconic Africa will keep striving to remain at the forefront of the industry.

Our small team of highly experienced agents all know the continent intimately, and continue to research new destinations, experiences and trends. We want every guest’s visit to our shores to be life-changing.

Get hold of us on info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your own bucket list safari…

 

Africa is Opening Up!

Africa is opening up again!

For those of you who have been yearning to satisfy that travel urge over the last 15 months, the thrilling news is that you can do that sooner than you think.
Right now, in fact.

United Airlines recently returned to South Africa with its direct flight from New York to Johannesburg, and this route is set to continue as a daily service. Just as exciting is the anticipated resurrection of the New York to Cape Town route, set to launch in October, which will give visitors direct access to South Africa’s Mother City, right on the southern tip of the continent.
Current US Rules allow those fully vaccinated with the Moderna, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson jabs to return home without having to undergo any period of quarantine, so the worry of getting back home can essentially be forgotten.

Photograph courtesy of Getty Images

For those wishing to head on a breathtaking African safari, there has literally never been a better time.
With most operators offering once-in-a-lifetime specials, fairly quiet lodges, and the game viewing unaffected by what has been happening in the greater world and just as spectacular as ever, the only question seems to be, “Why not?”
Rwanda is open for gorilla trekking, and incredibly sophisticated COVID-19 protocols (everyone in the tourism industry has been vaccinated) make this one of the safest countries to visit.
Botswana’s Okavango Delta is still – as ever – performing its own rendition of Eden, and the leopard viewing in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve continues to be unrivalled anywhere in the rest of the continent.

South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve is world-renowned for its leopard viewing in particular.

Iconic Africa director Terri Abadi recently flew out to South Africa to visit Londolozi Game Reserve, a place that has been close to her heart for over twenty years, and had this to say about her experience in getting there:

I flew out just before the New York flight opened so I routed through Amsterdam, and my family flew out after me on the direct NY flight.
Both of our experiences were absolutely seamless. The airlines have adjusted completely to the new normal
and to be honest it almost felt like nothing had changed since before COVID-19.

My layover was only two hours in Amsterdam and before I knew it, I was on the ground in Johannesburg and transferring to my flight down to the bush.

I’m excited to see what this means for travel, as once people start to realise how easy and most of all safe it is to get out to Africa, I anticipate people clamouring to go on safari once more!”

Terri Abadi and family enjoying the sunrise on a misty morning at Londolozi Game Reserve.

With the worldwide tourism industry having suffered through the bulk of 2020, but now slowly starting to turn a corner, we are thrilled to be able to contribute in our small way to helping the continent get back to its feet in the travel sector.
The new normal of travel is about responsibility; the awareness of the difference you are making to both the people and the wildlife in the places you visit. Sustainability, reduced impact, boons for local conservation projects and the socio-economic upliftment of communities are all part of the new jargon of travel.

Our destinations and packages are carefully picked to fulfil both a unique and life-changing African experience for the guest, as well as make a positive impact in the areas they serve.

We look forward to welcoming you to this stunning continent.
She is waiting…

South Africa’s “Small Five”

Travellers flock from all over the world to witness South Africa’s magnificent Big Five, often waiting hours to catch a glimpse and photograph the fierce lion or the gentle elephant. The lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo and leopard are held in high esteem and even celebrated on our currency.

The Big Five animals really have the ability to conjure up magical memories for families, especially when travellers are fortunate to see all of them on a safari! While the Big Five are extraordinary and charming in physique and manner, there are lots more adored wildlife including the giraffe, zebra, impala and many more that are heartily pursued. Sadly there are some that are forgotten too, but we are here to show you that there’s so much more to South Africa’s animal kingdom.

South Africa has a multiplicity of ecosystems that include remarkable birdlife, small game and insects. Included in this is South Africa’s Small Five animals that are no less fascinating and should make an addition to everyone’s “must-see” list. The Small Five are elusive creatures and so spotting them is somewhat of an accomplishment. In complete contrast to the size of the Big Five, they maintain a part of their counterpart’s English name. They are the elephant shrew, ant lion, rhinoceros beetle, buffalo weaver and leopard tortoise.

ELEPHANT SHREW
Found all over South Africa, the Elephantulus Myurus– getting its name from its long elephant-like snout – reaches an arrested size of 25cm and weigh approximately 60 grams. While they feed on insects, fruit, seeds and nuts, they in turn become food for our slithering reptiles and birds of prey. Because of this, they become extremely scarce and spotting this small insectivore can deem your game drive a success!

ANT LION
The Myrmeleontidae is a peculiar creature with familiar ways. Like the king of the jungle, this insect traps its prey by digging indents into soft sand and pouncing on the ants. Hence the name ant lion. During the adult stage, the pupa develops wings and starts resembling a dragonfly. Although the ant lion is as scarce as the elephant shrew, you will recognise its funnel-shaped death traps that collect ants stumbling into it.

RHINOCEROS BEETLE
The Scarabaeinae dynastinae is one of the largest beetles in southern Africa. Getting its name from the horns on its head much like that of the Rhinoceros. Dynamite comes in small packages as the male rhino beetles are known to be an aggressive creature, fighting off rivals with their horns. The horns are also used to dig, climb and mate. Adult rhino beetles should be applauded. The larval stage can last 12 to 18 months.

BUFFALO WEAVER
The Bubarlornis Niger is found in parks and reserves all over South Africa and is the easiest of the Small Five to spot. And if you can’t seem to find them, you’ll hear them or find their nests. The buffalo weavers are noisy and busy birds that build their woven nests up in the branches of tall trees. They interlace coarse grass and twigs to form large nest structures.

LEOPARD TORTOISE
The Geochelone pardalis is definitely not as fast and agile as the leopard, but definitely poses a striking resemblance. Named for its black and yellow spotted shell, the leopard tortoise is one of the largest breeds in the southern hemisphere with an adult weighing up to 23 kilograms and a shell circumference of up to one metre.

Tag us in your candid images of South Africa’s Small Five on our Instagram account @iconicafrica!

Why We Love Private Game Reserves

If you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime African safari and are looking for exclusivity and freedom and a unique safari adventure, we would recommend booking in a private game reserve.

Because there are fewer safari tours that take place in private game reserves, guests are allowed to freely explore the African wilderness. You are offered the opportunity to escape from the crowds that are associated with the larger National Parks and this means that guests can experience the true African bushveld and won’t have to share their wildlife sightings with other vehicles.

Private game reserves guarantee no “traffic jams” because the number of vehicles that can be present at a game sighting is restricted to two or three cars which means that not only are you ensured the ultimate game viewing experience, you won’t have other vehicles photobombing your best wildlife photographs!

Game viewing vehicles in private reserves can drive off-road to allow guests to search for big cats or to track specific animals. Private game reserves don’t have hours of operation like National Parks so guests are given an exclusive opportunity to experience an exhilarating night drive, showing you all the nocturnal game you wouldn’t get to see during the day.

You get to see amazing animal interactions that often occur out of sight of main roads and because the rangers are not restricted to national park hours, your game drive can last much longer and you can stay as long as your ranger will allow on a sighting.

Game drives are not restricted to certain times and to certain roads and the open-top vehicles give you the best panoramic view of the area.

You can enjoy bush walks and your guide or ranger will help you get those extremely up-close and personal pics of wildlife.

‘Traversing rights’ will allow your ranger to take you onto neighbouring land to expand your wildlife sightings with more biodiversity to explore.

It’s all in the name…if you’re after privacy, this is what you can expect to get in a private game reserve. Not only will you feel like you have the entire continent to yourself, but you can also experience Africa’s wilderness in a more authentic fashion, where you see Africa’s animals in their natural environment, undisturbed by the vehicles around them.

King Lewanika - Lounge on your private verandah, taking in the panoramic views and watching birds and big game

Contact us here to find out more about the luxury private game reserve on top of your bucket list.

The Great Migration – Where to stay?

The wildebeest migration is rated as one of the world’s most incredible wildlife spectacles, and a phenomenon that should have its place on every safari lover’s bucket list. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope migrate clockwise around the Serengeti/Masai Mara ecosystem. They travel up to 3000 kilometres each year in search of rain ripened grass. It is a natural phenomenon like no other, a spectacle not to be missed and, most definitely, an event that belongs on your bucket list.

The trouble with the wildebeest migration is that it can be so unpredictable and it can be difficult to be in the right place at the right time, and you could miss the whole event. Therefore, we’ve made a list of the best places to stay to make sure you get to see a wildlife spectacle like no other without the hours of driving to spot their movements.

Where to Stay in Masai Mara, Kenya

The ideal time to stay here: August – December

The Masai Mara sits at the top of every safari lover’s bucket list. This exceptional reserve comprises 1,500 square kilometres of endless, savannah grassland. In amongst whistling thorns, white thorns, fever trees and wild olives, the great plains of the Masai Mara are home to Africa’s most majestic animals. The red grass savannahs, brightly coloured Maasai villages, interminable vistas and distinct horizons combine to ensure the most quintessential African panorama.

Angama Mara
Perched on the edge of Africa’s Great Rift Valley is a lodge that comes as close to heaven on earth, as possible. Angama Mara, Swahili for “suspended in mid-air” boasts the best views in the Masai Mara. A place that constantly takes your breath away, where happiness reigns and peace is all-encompassing, where you literally stand on the edge of the world. Owner-managed and run by the reputable Fitzgerald family, Angama Mara is the ultimate African safari destination.

Great Migration Tanzania Masaai Mara East Africa Safaris Angama Mara 2

Mara Plains
Situated in the luscious river woodland of the Ntiakitiak River, within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy on the Northern border of the Masai Mara, is the definition of grandeur and colonial opulence. Mara Plains is a lavish and magical wonderland. From the minute you step onto the rope bridge, you are immediately transported into your very own, African, home away from home. “A camp’s success is in the details,” says Dereck Joubert, CEO of Great Plains and Mara Plains is testament to this.

Perfect for: Family or friends travelling together

Bateleur Camp
On the edge of the Mara Triangle, beneath the Olooloolo Escarpment, Swahili for “zigzag” lies a lush, magical oasis of giant fig and wild ebony trees that is home to an intimate, colonial, Kenyan escape. The sanctuary of comfort, shade, coolness and luxury is a welcome retreat from the heat and wide-open spaces of the surrounding savannah. Enquire now and let us plan the ultimate East African Safari for you.
Perfect for: Groups and families (children of all ages welcome)

Ol Donyo
Ol Donyo Lodge is one of the oldest and most classic of Africa’s safari destinations. Kenya’s first Relais and Chateaux lodge represents the ultimate of private, exclusive safari bliss. Located on the Maasai-owned Mbirikani Group Ranch, comprising of 275,000 acres of wilderness between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks and bordering Chyulu Hills National Park, it offers endless views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the savannahs below. Breathtakingly beautiful every way you look, Ol Donyo is a must for the bucket list, the ultimate luxury destination in South Eastern Kenya.

Mara Expeditions Camp
Set on the very outskirts of the Masai Mara and on the edge of the Mara North Conservancy is this unbelievable luxury safari hideout. At Mara expeditions camp you immediately become an intrepid explorer, with so much to investigate, to learn and to enjoy. The never-ending plains become your playground and the big-hearted, ever-smiling, genuine African staff… your friends. Mara Expeditions Camp has been built on a small bend in the Ntiakitiak River where the dese riverine forest meets the golden plains. It’s a place where lion calls dominate the nights…

iconic-africa-east-africa-migration-african-luxury-safaris

Where to Stay in the Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park, meaning “endless plains” in the Maasai language, is Tanzania’s oldest game reserve and undoubtedly one of the world’s most famous wilderness areas. It is most celebrated as the site of Africa’s greatest spectacle, the annual Great Migration when an estimated three million antelope – mostly wildebeest — migrate to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve. This epic, seasonal journey is something every safari-goer and lover of Africa should experience at least once. The Serengeti has so much to offer: from action-packed game drives, to epic hot air balloon adventures and an abundance of game that makes it the iconic safari adventure of a lifetime.

&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp
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!

Perfect for: Romantic getaways and families/groups travelling together

&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas
Set somewhere in the vast Serengeti in hot pursuit of the massive herd of the Great Migration is this unbelievably luxurious semi-permanent camp. It is the absolute ultimate in true bush immersion and wild African adventure, your very own wildlife haven set up in only the very best part of the Serengeti for that particular time of year. Escape from the real world entirely, put your feet up and relax while sharing Africa’s most famous wildlife area with its wildlife as intimately as possible.

Perfect for: Adventurous travellers and families

Alex Walker’s Serian
Alex Walker’s Serian is the ultimate mobile camping experience, with four camps in the Serengeti it will bring you as close as humanly possible to the migrating herds. Revel in the fresh air, the unspoilt bush, the wild animals and this wholly natural setting; let the harmony and tranquillity of your surroundings infiltrate you.

Sayari
Close to the famous Lamai wedge overlooking the unspoilt plains of the Northern Serengeti and minutes from the mighty Mara River’s most famous wildebeest migration crossing points is this award-winning camp offering only the very best in exclusive game viewing while indulging you in remarkable luxury. Perched high up on a hill overlooking the great expanse of the Serengeti is Sayari, Swahili for ‘planet.’ And you definitely do feel as if you are on your own planet.

Singita Faru Faru
Singita Faru Faru really is something else, it is the ultimate in classic safari lodges, set in one of the most exquisite locations, boasting incredible game experiences and the very best East African hospitality. Here you don’t even need to leave the lodge, due to the waterhole the safari comes to you.

Singita Sasakwa
Resembling a deluxe ranch house in the midst of the African bushveld this is one Africa’s most exquisite destinations and another Singita – ‘place of miracles’. From June-September you may even have a run-in with Africa’s most phenomenal spectacle, the great wildebeest migration… something that should most definitely take the top spot on any bucket list. Witness as thousands of wildebeest make the trek from the Southern Serengeti, up North to the Masai Mara in search of rain ripened grass.

singita-sasakwa-lodge

Let’s Make it Happen! Our team will make sure you get to experience a side of Africa that few others ever get to see. Contact us here for more information.

Why Book With Our Expert Travel Agents Now More Than Ever Before

Safari is the lifeblood of African tourism and during these strange and unpredictable times, African lodges and hotels are appealing to travellers to come and experience the once-in-a-lifetime beauty and joy of the bush with the assurance of a safe environment.

At Iconic Africa, we understand that many travellers have had to put their upcoming plans on hold or postponed them, but now is the right time to be planning for your 2021 travels and we are here to help with it all. We have great relationships with our lodges and know just how to safeguard your plans to make sure that even if they get turned upside down as is the nature of 2020 we can right them again.

With almost all countries having health, safety and quarantine measures in place, we know many of you are craving to pack your bags but that you are nervous to do so. Our trained and dedicated staff know exactly where you can go on safari, where is the easiest to get to, and what is best for you and your family. Our team has been hard at work this year helping to support the South African tourism industry. With their ears to the ground, they have all the information and updates to provide travellers with a stress-free planning experience and smooth sailing from touchdown to take off.

For locals – this is the perfect time to check-in at destinations that are normally fully booked months and years in advance and that have emphasised the importance of using local rates during this pandemic. It is time to enjoy your own continent without lots of tourists and without the stirring concern and anxiety as we carry on doing what we do best – plan!

For foreigners: here are some reasons to chat to our lovely travel agents and book some time with your family in crisp, fresh African air, under open skies, no crowds, and an abundance of wildlife!

We have been in the luxury safari business for 20 years and our Iconic team listens to everything you like, want and need from your safari experience. Whether it is a classic safari, being alone in the wilderness or harnessing the spirit of adventure. We pride ourselves on our longstanding relationships with luxury destinations which always deliver 5-star results.

Under normal circumstances, you would need to book well in advance, but because of constantly changing circumstances, we can secure the right place for you without having to put your dream safari on hold for too long.

Have your itinerary custom-designed from your arrival to departure with carefully chosen activities and experiences that suit your interests.

Let us make it our job to stay on top of COVID-19 updates, travel restrictions and border regulations and communicate it to you.

We can recommend reliable insurance cover and our team is on top of all travel and visa requirements, flight schedules and airport transfers.

We work closely with tourism representatives in each country and stay on top of all news and updates. Our team gathers reliable information to communicate with you before and during your trip.

No need to spend hours on the phone! We deal with any and all changes before your departure, from flights to hotel accommodation – we have got it covered!

There’s no better time than now to make your safari dreams come true! Let us help you plan your trip for 2021 and 2022. Travelling should be exciting, so don’t get bogged down with all the small details, leave that to us. Find out more from one of our team members here.

Lauren Fryer’s Heart is in Botswana

Lauren is a born and bred South African who married into a bush-mad family. She has been a part of the Iconic team for many years now and falls more and more in love with Africa each day. Lauren endeavours to instil an appreciation of the natural world into her children and she believes there is no better place than Africa to do this! Over the years she has visited Mozambique, Swaziland, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Seychelles.

While she has many stories to tell about all the places she has visited, her favourite memory remains in Botswana – the most incredible wilderness sanctuaries with its diverse landscapes: from the Kalahari Desert through great stretches of Mopane woodland to the delta itself, with kilometres of channels, islands and lagoons. It has large herds of elephants, beautiful cats, and enough variety in its bird-life to turn even the most dedicated big-mammal follower into a twitcher!

One of the most intimate and peaceful experiences she has had in nature was on a Mokoro trip through the channels of the Okavango Delta, home of the water-based safari!

“I was extremely out of my comfort zone, and although I was exceptionally nervous, my husband insisted that we go and I am so glad we did!

The polers, who stood at the back behind us, used their panoramic view of our surroundings to watch for animals of all sizes. While you can get up close and personal with the likes of Africa’s smallest frog and water birds, your guide will ensure that a safe distance is kept between you and larger species such as hippos and crocodiles! It truly is a unique safari experience gliding on the delta, taking in rosy sunsets and the dazzling array of wildlife.”

They stayed at Gomoti Camp, part of the Machaba Safari group. Scroll down for images of this breathtaking destination.

Lauren Fryer believes there is no greater vacation than an African Safari & Beach experience.

Exploring the Pafuri

Iconic Africa’s director, John Holley has recently visited one of the Kruger National Park’s most untouched areas – The Outpost, Pafuri. This breath-taking wilderness is almost prehistoric. It’s surrounded by high peaks that form a sensational valley, perfect for the walking safari that will show you the beauty, splendour and stillness of the African bushveld. John was lucky enough to spot a black eagle nesting and a Pels fishing owl, but this is no surprise as this birder’s paradise is home to over 350 species. This 26,500ha concession, belonging to the Makuleke people, boasts nearly 80% of the Kruger Park’s biodiversity. Not only does The Outpost pride themselves on awarded architecture, but they also promise fun-filled excursions through the concession, magical walking safaris and game drives that will show the first time safari-goer and avid traveller all the incredible birding, fauna and flora before relaxing with a few sundowners or some stories around the fire.

See some of John’s favourite memories from the trip in his pictures below.

Find the Magic of Madikwe

Madikwe Game Reserve is widely recognised as one of the premier luxury safari destinations in Southern Africa. Nearly 30 years old, this 75 000 hectares reserve is one of South Africa’s largest and finest game reserves. But this beautiful gem is more than just a malaria-free luxury bush accommodation. You will find breathtaking scenery, bold colours and a plethora of photographic opportunities. Explore the wildlife and nocturnal animals on the day and night drives or by foot and immerse yourself in nature’s playground.

Here are some reasons why we think Madikwe really is a magical destination and is so worthy of a spot on your bucket list.

  • Amazing game viewing:

Madikwe Private Game Reserve has become world-famous for its Lion and (highly endangered) African Wild Dog viewing. What’s more, because Madikwe’s terrain is a unique mix of savannah and semi-arid desert the diverse safari experience allows visitors the chance to view the ever-renowned Big 5, as well as a number of rare desert-adapted species.

In Madikwe’s early years, the chance of seeing a Leopard on safari was low. However, in more recent years, the Leopard viewing has improved tremendously. As such the opportunity to see the much desired Big 5 is high! All rangers and trackers work together in unison to locate these ever-elusive cats. Due to the semi-arid nature of the terrain, the visibility in the reserve is good and the quality of game viewing is further ensured, as the game rangers are able to drive the safari 4×4 vehicles off-road for closer viewing.

  • Easy to get to:

Madikwe is a 50-minute charter flight or 4-5 hour drive from Johannesburg and lies on the edge of the Kalahari and Botswana borders.

National Park vs Game Reserve Lion Road

  • The ultimate romance and luxury

Iconic Africa has also handpicked the exclusive lodges that are equally famous for their bespoke honeymoon luxury experiences. Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Hills and Jamala Madikwe are such lodges that have become synonymous with luxury and attention to detail. These exclusive lodges will ensure a romantic, lavish safari retreat.

  • A trailblazer for African conservation

It is impossible to believe Madikwe once operated as a cattle ranch! It was the scene of the largest game translocation programme in the world between 1991 and 1997, moving over 8000 animals! Madikwe continues to be a shining light in African conservation. Madikwe Game Reserve was one of the earliest pioneers that proved local communities; government and private business sectors can work successfully together to set up sustainable conservation sanctuaries. This approach to wildlife conservation uplifts the local community whilst benefiting the park’s lodges and now homes over 66 different mammal species and over 360 different bird species.

  • Malaria free

Madikwe Game Reserve is a malaria-free safari region, which makes it ideal for families with younger children. These family-friendly luxury lodges offer tailored children’s activities as well as adjusted game drives which are more geared towards children. Madikwe Safari Lodge and Jaci’s Safari lodge offer fantastic family-friendly safaris.

Besides being one of the best family-friendly safari options in South Africa, the exclusivity of this destination makes it the ideal romantic getaway and many babymooners have chosen this as their escape of choice!

For some expecting parents, it’s a relaxing weekend getaway and others are ready for a long-haul flight and an action-packed two-week stay in the bush.

This is your chance to unwind properly and enjoy each other’s company undisturbed. Whether it’s a quick trip or an extended vacation, you could expect to indulge in a couple’s massage, gourmet dinners, theatre performances, art galleries, outdoor yoga and not forgetting a memorable game drive that will leave you wanting to return with your little one. And if you or your better-half are incapable of sitting on a lounger for more than a couple of hours, we’ve incorporated a little bit of adventure for you too…

The best time to experience an unforgettable safari in South Africa is September when spring is in full force in the Western Cape. You’ll have clear blue skies and temperatures in the early 20s – perfect for exploring and relaxing in the sun.

Soak up those memorable moments, whether it’s pristine beaches or a brush with the Big Five, our team is here to help you take advantage of the small pleasures. Need we say more? Please contact us if you have any questions whatsoever on the magic of Madikwe.

Falling for Africa

Africa is the continent of safari, wilderness and adventure and infused into all of this is an unmistakable and ancient romance. Not only can Africa rekindle the flame under ancient Jackalberry trees, but this colourful continent will touch your heart and have you falling in love with everything it has to offer. There is very little in this world that compares to a rustic, yet luxurious entanglement with nature and no other place can offer it in an abundance like here.


Zambia African Safari Destination - a haven for relaxation with soaking tubs overlooking the landscape

We can think of hundreds of places to make you fall head-over-heels, but we have chosen just 5 for now…

South Africa

Cape Town has something which will appeal to you, no matter your holiday desires. Honeymooners and romantics will fall further in love with the idyllic views and white sanded beaches. Families can share a morning with curious penguins or throw in some laidback whale watching in Hermanus. For the more adventurous go cage diving with the Great White sharks off Gansbaai or even paraglide off the mountains surrounding Cape Town.

Cape Winelands are without doubt one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Leave the coastline of Cape Town and wander towards the culinary capital of South Africa – Franschhoek. Cross rugged mountains passes and descend into century-old vineyards framed by high arching mountains. Drive lightly down age-old cobbled driveways and gently make your way into the Cape Dutch style manor houses.

Value Golf And Wine Tour South Africa A1

The Kruger National Park is the largest reserve in South Africa and forms part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which stretches over 35 000 square kilometres and encompasses three countries – South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. This is one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries whose vast expanse ensures the ultimate luxury safari experience as the wildlife is free to roam in a protected area which is slightly larger than the State of South Carolina.

Zimbabwe

The Victoria Falls is possibly the most awe-inspiring and humbling natural wonder on planet earth. Standing in the rainforest faced with the great thundering boom of the ancient Zambezi waters plunging more than 100 metres into a fathomless gorge will leave you silent, grinning, tearful and overjoyed to be soaked by the cleansing waters. Victoria Falls is a soulful journey into primal Africa – with Iconic Africa, your visit is combined with superlative luxury, service and adventure.

Rwanda

Not only is Rwanda the realm of the Silverback Gorillas, but it is also home to a multitude of monkey species. Rwanda promises to be the pinnacle of monkey interactions. Of course, a trip to Rwanda would be wasted without the unique experience of a gorilla trek but, why not combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee trekking to create an utterly unforgettable experience? Nothing compares to the excitement of spotting Colobus and Mangabey monkeys whilst strolling through the lush, virescent jungles of Rwanda. Birdlife is also abundant—making Rwanda the ultimate bird lover’s paradise.

Bisate Lodge Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Rooms

 

 

Kenya

The density and variety of wildlife is unreal, with often more than ten different species of mammals in one spot, an anomaly that is unheard of elsewhere. Kenya boasts hoards of unique antelope such as the graceful Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelle as well as the vibrant topis making it the ultimate predator’s paradise.

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Tanzania

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. Tanzania has three safari circuits and each one of them would make Tanzania a top wildlife destination. The popular Northern circuit with the Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater offers one of the best classical safaris in Africa, especially if timed with the annual wildebeest migration. Sit surrounded by 1.5 million wildebeest as you experience one of nature’s great wonders, sip a G and T on the shores of the flamingo-infested lake Manyara as the fiery sun sinks below the horizon, or survey the vast Ngorongoro crater from a breathtaking vantage point on the rim.

Balloon Safari Iconic Africa Tanzania Desert 2 Great Migration Tanzania Masaai Mara East Africa Safaris Angama Mara 2

South African International Borders Are Open!

Drumroll… the moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived!

We are ecstatic to share with you that South African borders will finally be open to international visitors on the 1st October 2020. Although they are not open to all countries just yet this is a step in the right direction and they will be soon.

As a nation that loves to play host and to show off our beautiful land, we have so missed all of our foreign travellers and friends. We are ready for you now more than ever before as we’ve been prepping for your arrival since March. We cannot wait to welcome you back to the land of magical sunsets, exhilarating safaris, G&Ts, colourful cultures and breath-taking landscapes.

As we enter Level 1, we are excited that both domestic and international flights can resume to get you to us as soon as possible! All travellers will be required to have a PCR COVID-19 clearance certificate issued by a recognized facility within 48 hours from the date of departure. All commercial airports in South Africa have a risk-adjusted strategy in place to keep all flyers safe. But if you’re still having cold feet, we have put together some useful information for when you travel post lockdown.

The thought of welcoming guests back into our hotels, lodges and camps brings us all sorts of emotions! We’ve been waiting patiently and preparing for your arrival. All accommodations, restaurants and attractions are operating within regulations and are thrilled to have you come hang out with our local people and wildlife. Our operators are fully equipped to receive you and your families and cannot wait to give you their undivided attention and offer you the 5-star luxury that cannot compare to anywhere else.

Luxury Golf And Wine Tour South Africa Silo Hotel

Luxury Golf And Wine Tour South Africa Franschoek 2

Our staff are ready to make your stay the most memorable; our guides cannot wait to show you the bush and its exquisite wildlife and our chefs are busy preparing to cook up a storm for you! The Tourism Business Council of South Africa’s Travel Safe-Eat Safe protocols and programme has been implemented across the tourism sector to ensure the safe reopening of the industry.

For those who have postponed their stay, we hope these videos inspire some wanderlust!

Our beaches, winelands and wilderness await you to grace us with your presence once again! The opening up of our borders will unite and reignite after what seems like way too much time apart! We hope to have you on the viewing decks soon, ice-cold G&T in hand and sun setting over the horizon.

Take a look at these amazing once-in-a-lifetime safari tours we have put together to help you to see more of our spectacular country.

Africa’s Cape of Desire

Singita Safari Splendour

Great Value Golf & Wine Tour

Premier Wine & Gold Tour

With Zambia and Zimbabwe opening their borders too, these tours are also now options:

The Royal Romance

Luxury Safari Classic

Africa’s Family Getaway

If you have any questions at all about your travels please feel free to get in touch with us.