Romance Tour Archives - Iconic Africa

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style this Year

Posted on January 22, 2021 by Lexi Hall

Nothing can kill the romance like a global pandemic so we’re here to help you get the spark back with the help of our beaches, bush and Winelands… Africa is the continent of safari, wilderness and adventurous escapades but at the heart of it all is an unmistakable and ancient romance. We’ve hand-selected our most idyllic destinations and designed the perfect romantic getaway for you and your loved one here. Now, more than ever before… we need to take time out to celebrate and to make memories.

Iconic Africa’s Royal Romance combines the beauty, wilderness, adventure and pioneering excitement of Africa with four destinations that define supreme luxury permeated with complete privacy and opulent romance.

Ellerman House is the definition of modern sophisticated living on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the marvels of Cape Town all around. La Residence is the jewel of Franschhoek – abject indulgence suspended in an impossibly beautiful valley of vineyards. Royal Malewane is impeccably tasteful grandeur surrounded by the majesty of the African wilderness. Royal Chundu is the ancient mystery and magic of the Zambezi in luxurious island seclusion.

ITINERARY

EDWARDIAN PASSION, LUXURIOUS EXTRAVAGANCE

Ellerman House is a sumptuous Edwardian mansion resting on Lion’s Head Mountain, above the ultramarine waters of the Atlantic stretching to the meet the depthless African sky. No expense has been spared, it truly is a Relais&Chateaux haven of unparalleled luxury.

Ellerman House boasts arguably Africa’s greatest art collection as well as a world-class wine selection and cellar.

Cape Town’s endless sights, activities and beauty will keep you enthralled for months on end.

Accommodation: Ellerman House

AFRICA’S MAJESTIC WINELANDS

Nestled in the vineyards and plum orchards of Franschhoek, La Residence is the most gorgeous boutique hotel in the most picturesque valley in South Africa.

A benchmark to luxury and comfort and created with exquisite detail and love.

The hotel is infused with colour, fabulous antiques, luxurious finishes and vaulted ceilings from which Indian chandeliers twinkle.

The little village of Franschhoek is the undisputed culinary capital of South Africa and boasts great exceptional wine and delicious food.

Accommodation: La Residence

AFRICA’S WILD ROMANCE

At Royal Malewane, a private concession bordering the world-famous Kruger National Park the Biden’s Royal Portfolio has achieved perfection again.

A marvel of wilderness romance and seclusion that blends seamlessly into this ancient land.

Gourmet, starlit dinners under the giant Leadwood trees.

The Royal Malewane Spa is world-renowned and the ideal way to unwind with a uniquely healing African treatment.

Royal Malewane’s guides and trackers are some of the most highly qualified in Southern Africa.

Accommodation: Kruger National Park Private Concession

THE ROYAL VICTORIAN FALLS RETREAT

Royal Chundu is Zambia’s first Relais & Chateaux property – defined by the sumptuous luxury that blends seamlessly into the private stretch of the Zambezi River Bank.

Island Lodge is set on its own private island in the languid waters of the Zambezi, offering just four exclusive and indulgent villas.

Each palatial haven boasts a private deck suspended over the river.

The outdoor bath is a fantastic space to soak up the night sky while on cooler nights, keeping cosy in the plush lounge before retiring to your extravagant bed.

A little downriver from Royal Chundu, the Zambezi falls over the Victoria Falls to create one of the greatest demonstrations of nature’s power on planet earth.
Accommodation: Royal Chundu

The Indian Ocean Islands are Calling

Posted on October 8, 2020October 19, 2020 by Lexi Hall

We have all been feeling cooped up for the most part of this year and deserve a much-needed vacation. What better timing for the Indian Ocean islands to open up again to international tourists. We are excited to welcome travellers back to paradise and to celebrate, we have an exclusive safari and island getaway that will remedy all our problems as we leave reality behind…

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. But before you decide to immerse in the splendour of a Mozambique island holiday, let us take you to Tanzania, East Africa’s biggest country by far and most famously known for the famous Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Africa’s highest mountain and largest lake but holds secrets very dear to us – Essque Zalu, Baraza and andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge.

Tanzania:

Arguably one of the most luxurious hotels on the island, Essque Zalu Zanzibar has been awarded numerous high-quality travel industry awards. The hotel is the winner of the Tripadvisor ‘Travelers Choice 2016’ Award and it has been nominated for the 2016 World Luxury Hotel Awards. Enjoy your own personal piece of paradise and create unforgettable memories at Essque Zalu Zanzibar.

Experience the wonders of Zanzibar whilst spoiling yourself to the ultimate luxury beach getaway. Baraza Resort is an exclusive boutique hotel located along Bwejuu Beach – one of the top 30 island beaches in the world!

Just off Zanzibar’s north-eastern tip, resting on a secluded island, you will find Mnemba Island Lodge – Africa’s most exclusive beach lodge. Famous for its astounding coral reefs and its esteemed reputation for being one of the most amorous ocean destinations in the world, Mnemba Island Lodge is the perfect romantic getaway. With its rustic charm and its gorgeous ocean views, Mnemba will not disappoint!

Mozambique:

andBeyond Benguerra Island is a delicious tropical island retreat where couples and families will luxuriate in serene bliss in the consummate hospitality skills and stunning airy rooms that &Beyond has created. Here be adventure and repose in abundance floating in the Indian Ocean.

Quilalea Private Island, lying in a fully protected marine reserve, is the ultimate island experience – there are just nine villas on the entire Indian Ocean knoll. This is Swiss Family Robinson tropical island seclusion in unpretentious sophistication and impossible comfort. Your meals come straight from the abundance of the ocean just steps from your private beach villa. Your private butler will lavish subtle Mozambican hospitality on you while you luxuriate in ultimate island solitude.

White Pearl offers you a 99% chance that an Indian Ocean swim will be in the company of a pod of confiding dolphins – surfing in the waves next to you! An African experience the likes of which will never be equalled again! There is also an excellent chance to see migrating humpback whales from July to October – either as you stroll the beach or recline on your deck.

Azura Benguerra Island is a tropical island paradise from the storybooks of history. Silver beaches, leaning palm trees swinging in the gentle breeze and the endless sapphire Indian Ocean dishing largesse in the form of tranquillity, delicious fresh seafood and marine abundance. Benguerra is peace, seclusion, Mozambican hospitality, lavish opulence and modern efficiency at the gentle pace of the Indian Ocean islands.
[caption id="attachment_8949" align="aligncenter" width="2880"] Quirimbas National Park – Mozambique

In case you missed it, here are some post-lockdown travel tips and our revised booking terms.

The Perfect Winter Tour – Durban, Cape Town & Phinda

Posted on March 6, 2020 by Lexi Hall

Spend 11 days and 10 nights in KZN, Durban and Cape Town

Iconic Africa presents an outstanding Winter Special across two fantastic South African cities. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime all-inclusive safari before heading to Umhlanga Ridge and enjoying a relaxing 4 days at the 5* Oyster Box that has direct access to a beautiful piece of beach and offers world-class cuisine. End off in the Mother City. The striking ocean views set the stage for a memorable stay in Cape Town. Wake to the sound of gentle waves breaking on the shore before embarking on a day of exploration.

Day 1 – 4 &BEYOND PHINDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Described as ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder’, &Beyond Phinda encompasses an impressive 28 555 hectares (70 560 acres) of prime Big Five wilderness in KwaZulu-Natal. This Reserve comprises seven distinct habitats – from dry sand forest to wetland systems and mountain ranges. Catch a glimpse of the shy suni antelope, track rhino in the bushveld, observe breeding herds of elephant in fever tree forests, hold your breath as a cheetah teaches her cubs to hunt, glide past hippo on the Mzinene River and marvel at the gracious nyala. Phinda is home to more than 3 000 of these rare antelope.

Accommodation: andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge

Complimentary road transfer from King Shaka International Airport to Phinda (approx 3hrs)
3 nights at Phinda Forest Lodge (Fully Inclusive)
Wild Child Programme for the children
Safari activities,
1-hour nature walks accompanied by experienced armed trackers (subject to availability),
Daily Morning and afternoon game drive

Day 4 -7 UMHLANGA

Located on the eastern coast of South Africa, just outside of the port city of Durban, Umhlanga Rocks, also referred to as Umhlanga, is a popular seaside resort town. The tropical weather and lush vegetation make this an enticing holiday destination attracting visitors from all over the world. Umhlanga and its surrounds feature golden-sand beaches stretching over 200 kilometres, endless sugarcane fields and the rolling verdant landscape of the Valley of 1000 Hills. It is the perfect location for ocean enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike, with great opportunities for diving, swimming, scuba diving, whale watching, dolphin viewing, deep-sea fishing and kiteboarding. Don’t miss Umhlanga’s excellent golf courses; they are a real treat for the avid golfer.

Accommodation: The Oyster Box

Road transfer to The Oyster Box Hotel
3 nights accommodation at The Oyster Box Hotel (B&B) * 3rd night is free!

Day 7 – 11 CAPE TOWN

Without question one of the world’s most spectacular cities, Cape Town sits on the southwestern edge of Africa and nestles beautifully between the two national heritage sites of the infamous Robben Island and the iconic “New 7 natural wonders of the world” member, Table Mountain. Cape Town is undoubtedly a destination in itself but also the holidaymaker’s gateway to the African continent. Perhaps in your own time, you’d prefer to relax peacefully on tranquil beaches, stroll along the promenade, hike up “Lions Head” or visit The Houses of Parliament set picturesquely in the Company Gardens? Or for those looking for a bit more of a buzz and some retail therapy visit the shops, restaurants and lavish hotels of V&A Waterfront.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Waterfront

Transfer to King Shaka International Airport
Scheduled flight to Cape Town
Transfer to hotel
4 nights accommodation

A world of endless experiences:

The beauty of Cape Town is not restricted to the city alone. Cape Town’s proximity to a number of incredible destinations makes short day trips to the likes of the Cape Winelands, Cape Point, Hermanus and the Garden Route an absolute must!

We recommend seeing:

Private Peninsula tour

Wine estates that are child-friendly such as Blauuwklippen, Seidelberg, and Fairview,

Eagle Encounters at Spier Estate

Cheetah Outreach

Camps Bay

Seal Island Hout Bay

Chapman’s Peak

Boulders Penguin Colony

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Includes:

Road transfer from King Shaka International Airport to Phinda (approx 3hrs)
3 nights at Phinda Forest Lodge (FI)
Road transfer to The Oyster Box Hotel ( approx 3 hrs)
3 nights accommodation at The Oyster Box Hotel (B&B)
Transfer to King Shaka International Airport
Scheduled flight to Cape Town
Transfer to hotel
4 nights accommodation at The Radisson Blu Waterfront (B&B)

Excludes:

Meals, drinks and laundry not specified in the itinerary or as outlined in the Includes
Premium brand drinks, champagne, cognacs, cellar wines, cigars and cigarettes
Gratuities and any items of a personal nature
Sightseeing and excursions not specified in the itinerary
Flights and transfers not specified in the itinerary
National parks and concession fees not specified in the itinerary
Travel Insurance
Visa fees (please be sure to check if visas are required)
International flights

Find out more about this tour here.

https://digital.iconicafrica.com/Itinerary/Landing/d66bad8a-59a4-4a77-9b00-fc19713b71ff

Most Romantic Stays in the Kruger

Posted on February 27, 2020 by Lexi Hall

Just because the month of love has passed by, doesn’t mean impromptu romantic gestures, couple getaways and memorable days in the bush need to wait. Let the passion continue with an idyllic stay in the Kruger National Park.

There is something intrinsically beautiful about this place – the painted skies blurring with the edge of the landscape as the colours glaze over the plains ahead, the connection to nature all around you, and the majestic animals that hold dominion over all that the light touches. This is what makes this park the perfect destination for couples!

The park is only a 5-hour drive away from O.R. Tambo Airport and an even shorter flight to the nearest private airstrip. You can catch the sunrise from the aircraft and sunset on the deck of your villa.

Royal Malewane

Royal Malewane hosts a maximum of 20 guests insuring a continuously intimate experience. There is an option of either one of six luxury suites for couples, or for even more privacy and seclusion, one of two four-sleeper Royal Suites. Royal Malewane holds the secret ingredients for enchanting all your senses. The spectacular close encounters with unbelievable wildlife on dawn and dusk game drives create unforgettable memories and countless photographs to look back on.

Royal Malawane Safari Lodge. Client: The Royal Portfolio. Art director: Paul Duncan. Stylist: Nathalie Williams.

Singita Lebombo

Singita Lebombo’s fifteen ultra-luxurious suites are an incredible combination of steel, wood and gentle African materials wrapped by a wall to wall glass casing and sweeping deck which boast exquisite African views. Singita Lebombo has become renowned for its fine dining and its private wine collection.

Londolozi

Londolozi falls under Top 20 Safari Lodges & Camps in Africa – and, as can be expected when you’re the World’s Best Hotel, Londolozi claimed top position. Three of Londolozi’s five lodges, namely Granite, Pioneer and Tree are Relais & Chateaux properties and these lodges are true to the elegance and attention to detail that this world-renowned signature embodies.

Cheetah Plains

If the way to your heart is through your stomach – Cheetah Plains is the destination for you! Each Plains House hosts a fine wine gallery comprising a purely South African wine selection. 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.

Rockfig Safari Lodge

The interior of Rockfig Safari Lodge takes inspiration from Timbavati’s locale and luxurious bush setting evident in the colours and rustic furnishings. Enjoy a romantic bush dining experience or sunset picnic. The romance at Rockfig doesn’t end here. With only eight guests at a time, you are assured privacy. The perfect destination for some R&R, you will be woken by that first ray of morning light atop pure cotton linen.

Ngala Safari Lodge

andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge is nestled in the shade of a cool green mopane forest infused with an atmosphere of rich history and the ultimate tranquillity of the African wild. The 21 exquisite thatched cottages are appointed to conjure the inspiration of the brave early naturalists who were so awed by this stunning area.

Kings Camp

Here you will bond over incredible wildlife sightings and time spent in the bush. Your Kings Camp memories will most likely be built around some incredible African safari sightings. Kings Camp is perfect for honeymooners! For those chasing the romance of Africa, the Honeymoon Suites have their own private pools with spectacular views and ensure uninterrupted privacy.

Our top romantic Kruger stays also offer world-class award-winning spas.

Enquire with one of our team members about a romantic package or honeymoon getaway in the bush today!

Iconic Africa’s Valentine’s Special

Posted on February 6, 2020 by Lexi Hall

It’s absolute perfection!

STAY 3, PAY FOR 2 at Narina & Tinga Lodge this Feb & March only!

Many have been contemplating the much anticipated Valentine’s Day that has quickly crept upon us once again.

At Iconic Africa, we understand the need for spontaneity, romance and a true African adventure, so we have crafted this exclusive deal to make this the perfect start to 2020 for you and your loved one.

With just two weeks to plan the perfect romantic gesture, Lion Sands has reminded us to do something special this year. Let the new decade spark a different kind of romance in Africa’s idyllic bush with a heart-stopping deal at both Narina and Tinga lodges. And if you’ve left the planning too late, Lion Sands is extending the romance into March with this Stay 3, Pay for 2 offer.

Leave the heart-shaped balloons and red and white merchandise behind and escape into the pristine African wilderness where, sunsets, G’s & T’s, rose petals and candlelit dinners await!

Narina Lodge

Look forward to enchanted starry skies and starlit evenings at Narina Lodge. Prepare yourself for a completely luxurious and peaceful bush immersion as you try to spot the infamous leopard before outdoor dinners and foot safaris that provide the most humbling experience as you see some small and large mammals from the vantage of the ground. The open-plan lounge and dining area in the main area perfectly blend into the lush green banks of the river shaded by fig, ivory and jackalberry trees. You will know, see and feel no boundaries between your luxury accommodation and the fierce, raw and beautiful African terrain surrounding you.

You can look forward to unimaginable opulence at Narina Lodge.

The nine Narina suites, linked by suspended wooden walkways, are private sanctuaries of sublime comfort and design brilliance. The bathtubs lie beneath huge glass windows suspended over the river. The experience of relaxing in the bath while a herd of elephants, lit by the full moon, splashes in the river below is complete transcendence.

You can rest on your bed while keeping an eye out for the animals feeding on the riverbank before the soft cicada lullaby sends you into a restful sleep. In the lavish lounge, you can drink your favourite pre-dinner tipple while reading one of Africa’s tales of adventure.

Tinga Lodge

Are you ready for a spellbinding experience? Tinga Lodge is a private lodge situated in the Kruger National Park and offers the ultimate romantic getaway! Celebrate the heritage of the Kruger in luxury in one of its 9 secluded private suites resting along the banks of the Sabi River. Oscillate between magnificent Sabi River views and spotting Africa’s most secretive cat hiding amongst the treetops.

Book the indescribable treehouse experience:

Tinyeleti treehouse is a bedroom without walls, high off the ground. It is the ultimate way to spend a wild night out suspended beneath the Milky Way in complete safety and seclusion. Your ranger will drop you off at sunset with a picnic basket full of delicacies to enjoy as the African night surrounds you with sounds of – crickets, frogs, cicadas, hyenas, owls and, of course, regal lion roars. When tiredness overcomes, you can freshen up in the simple open-air bathroom and then allow sleep to gently take you while staring up at the stars from the comfort of your sumptuous four-poster bed.

Don’t put off planning a romantic getaway with your loved one. We’re here to do everything for you, all you have to do is pack your bag. Celebrate each other this Valentine’s Day in Africa with safaris, wildlife, adventures, spectacular views and SO much more.

Iconic Africa’s Top 10 tours for 2020

Posted on February 6, 2020 by Lexi Hall

There are so many different holiday-makers, from couples seeking a luxury escape, families that need different ages catered for and solo travellers seeking adventure. And… so many variables to consider – connecting flights, accommodation, activities and so on and so on! Taking time to plan your vacation shouldn’t feel like more effort so Iconic Africa has done all the hard work for you and put together some fantastic tours that have the perfect itinerary waiting. We have chosen our top ten tours for 2020 right here:

JOHN’S GREAT VALUE GOLF & WINE SAFARI

Iconic Africa Director, John Holley’s two passions in life are golf and the bush. Most of his childhood was spent doing one or the other and many memories made while either teeing off at sunrise or toasting to the sunset with an ice-cold beer at a waterhole. On that note – another great love of his is wine so a combo of golf, bush and wine… really is (in his mind) heaven! John has put together this incredible Golf & Wine Safari from all of his favourite destinations just for you. Get up close and personal with the magnificent Big Five; tee off on some of South Africa’s most impressive golf courses; discover gourmet restaurants and taste the finest wines that the Cape Winelands has to offer. Click here for full interactive itinerary.

LUXURY LONDOLOZI AFRICAN ADVENTURE

Iconic Africa has crafted the perfect mix of the ultimate in African luxury destinations to bring you the Luxury Londolozi African Adventure. You’ll begin your trip in the Cape of South Africa at the Cape Grace – in the heart of the world’s most beautiful city and then visit La Residence perched on the slopes of the Franschhoek Valley on the world’s most beautiful wine-lands. From there you will travel to the magnificent Londolozi Founders Camp in the exquisite Sabi Sands and then on to Zambia where you will experience the majesty of Victoria Falls from The Royal Livingstone and lastly to Jao Camp in the midst the wilderness wonderland of the Okavango Delta. Click here for full interactive itinerary.

SAFARI AND ISLAND RETREAT

Southern Africa offers some of the most spectacular coastlines the world over. Iconic Africa has picked boutique luxury on the shores of the raw wild Atlantic and floating in the tropical serenity of the Indian Ocean. Cape Cadogan nestled on the northern slopes of Table Mountain, offers relaxed, family-owned style and luxury – a perfect base from which to explore the awesome beaches, gastronomy and viticulture of the Cape. Azura Benguerra, in the cobalt warm waters of the Indian Ocean, offers a new level of fresh sophistication, seclusion and serenity on pristine beaches and unspoilt reefs. In between these, Londolozi Private Granite Suites offer you discerning and opulent hospitality combined with the world’s best leopard viewing. Click here for full interactive itinerary

AFRICA’S CAPE OF DESIRE

Africa’s Cape of Desire, as its name suggests, is a grand tour of this inspirational region at the base of the African continent. From cosmopolitan Cape Town – with its trendy bars and restaurants, world heritage sites, pristine beaches, sense of history and natural beauty – to the Winelands of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek – the undisputed culinary capital of South Africa and where South Africa’s world-famous wines are conjured from the Cape terroir – to the coastal sanctuary of Hermanus set on the magnificent cliffs of Walker Bay – world-renowned for its frolicking southern right whales and, for the more adventurous, a place to dive with Great White Sharks; The Cape of Desire offers you the most sumptuous luxury and astonishing natural wonder that only the tip of Africa has to offer. Click here for full interactive itinerary

AFRICA’S FAMILY GETAWAY

Africa’s Family Getaway is the ultimate luxury bespoke family holiday. It is full of excitement, adventure and fun while maintaining an indulgent level of sumptuous luxury. It is also completely safe for young children. The One&Only Cape Town is perfectly placed and appointed to accommodate your family in luxury while being an excellent launch pad to the delights of the Cape. Lelapa is malaria-free and by far the premier luxury safari camp for families with a quite exceptional children’s programme amidst the gorgeous wilderness and opulent accommodation. Likewise, Tongabezi is specially equipped and staffed to delight the modern family with adventure and fun in complete safety and extravagance. Click here for full interactive itinerary

THE ROYAL ROMANCE

Africa is the continent of safari, wilderness and adventurous escapades but infused into all of this is an unmistakable and ancient romance. Iconic Africa’s Royal Romance combines the beauty, wilderness, adventure and pioneering excitement of Africa with four destinations that define supreme luxury permeated with complete privacy and opulent romance. Ellerman House is the definition of modern sophisticated living on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the marvels of Cape Town all around. La Residence is the jewel of Franschoek – abject indulgence suspended in an impossibly beautiful valley of vineyards. Royal Malewane is impeccably tasteful grandeur surrounded by the majesty of the African wilderness. Royal Chundu is the ancient mystery and magic of the Zambezi in luxurious island seclusion. Click here for full interactive itinerary

LUXURY VIC FALLS & BOTSWANA

In the Luxury Vic Falls & Botswana Safari, Iconic Africa has created the ultimate safari for those wishing to explore Victoria Falls, one of the original natural wonders of the world, and Botswana’s unbelievable wildlife areas. The Elephant Camp –has breath-taking views of the Victoria Falls’ spray and the spectacular gorges which separate Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is a luxury, intimate lodge under canvas within easy reach of Victoria Falls and all its attractions and activities, yet secluded in its own private game reserve. Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero Lodge is situated in Chobe National Park which boasts the largest remaining population of the iconic African elephant. Botswana’s only fully serviced safari spa offers sweet repose in the heat of the midday. Selinda Camp is found in the Selinda Reserve of northern Botswana along the eastern banks of the Selinda Spillway, near the confluence of the Linyanti, Savute and Kwando Rivers. At the peak of the dry season, this concession boasts elephants by the thousands and regular sightings of the Selinda pack of African wild dogs. Click here for full interactive itinerary

AFRICA’S LUXURY SAFARI CLASSIC

In Africa’s Luxury Safari Classic, Iconic Africa handpicks the quintessential essence of luxury southern Africa – the boutique opulence, the Out of Africa safari experience and the adventure of legend. The Cape Grace – in the heart of the world’s most beautiful city – is bountiful comfort while the city has natural beauty, gastronomic delight and heart-wrenching history in abundance. Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is a sumptuous safari in the world-famous Kruger National Park. The Royal Livingstone Hotel, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi, in the spray of the Victoria Falls is a luxurious launching pad for the natural spectacles and adventures of the falls. Click here for full interactive itinerary

LUXURY EAST AFRICAN ADVENTURE

This tour as its name suggest is a grand tour of East Africa. From the colonial opulence of Hemingways Nairobi to the breathtaking views and exceptional service at Angama Mara, to the ultimate safari at Singita Faru Faru, to the pearly whites sands of andBeyond’s Mnemba Island Lodge in Zanzibar. Only the very best in East African hospitality, classic safari experiences, sumptuous luxury and unbelievable wildlife encounters await you.

JOHN’S PREMIER WINE & GOLF TOURS

Iconic Africa Director, John Holley’s three passions in life are golf, the bush and wine – 3 of life’s finest treats! He’s been lucky enough to spend much of his life dedicated to these 3 passions and exploring all that South Africa has to offer – which fortunately for him – is a great deal! He’s hand-picked his favourite destination and put them together for you here in his ultimate golf and wine safari. Explore the historical panorama route, the sensational Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve in the Kruger National Park, the Mother City, the coastal town of Hermanus and the rolling hills in Franschhoek and George. These will no doubt be some of the best 15 days of your life – and full of wine, wildlife and golf they will be! Click here for full interactive itinerary.

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Tour

Posted on December 4, 2019 by Lexi Hall

Before you know it, the much anticipated Valentine’s Day will be here and many of you will need some great ideas for some extra-special quality time with your loved one… Luckily, Africa is the continent of safari, wilderness and adventurous escapades infused into an unmistakable romantic destination. We’ve put together a special tour for you so that you have to worry about one less thing – Iconic Africa’s Royal Romance is the perfect gift or gesture for your special partner this Valentine’s Day… Don’t waste time planning the perfect escape for two – we’ve done it for you!

It combines the beauty, wilderness, adventure and pioneering excitement of Africa with four destinations that define supreme luxury permeated with complete privacy and opulent romance. Ellerman House is the definition of modern sophisticated living on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the marvels of Cape Town all around. La Residence is the jewel of Franschoek – abject indulgence suspended in an impossibly beautiful valley of vineyards. Royal Malewane is impeccably tasteful grandeur surrounded by the majesty of the African wilderness. Royal Chundu is the ancient mystery and magic of the Zambezi in luxurious island seclusion. View the full interactive itinerary below:

DAY 1-4: EDWARDIAN PASSION, LUXURIOUS EXTRAVAGANCE

Ellerman House is a sumptuous Edwardian mansion resting on Lion’s Head Mountain, above the ultramarine waters of the Atlantic stretching to the meet the depthless African sky.

No expense has been spared, it truly is a Relais&Chateaux haven of unparalleled luxury.

Ellerman House boasts arguably Africa’s greatest art collection as well as a world-class wine selection and cellar.

Cape Town’s endless sights, activities and beauty will keep you enthralled for months on end.
Accommodation: Ellerman House

DAY 4-6: AFRICA’S MAJESTIC WINELANDS

Nestled in the vineyards and plum orchards of Franschhoek, La Residence is the most gorgeous boutique hotel in the most picturesque valley in South Africa.

A benchmark to luxury and comfort and created with exquisite detail and love.

The hotel is infused with colour, fabulous antiques, luxurious finishes and vaulted ceilings from which Indian chandeliers twinkle.

The little village of Franschhoek is the undisputed culinary capital of South Africa and boasts great exceptional wine and delicious food.
Accommodation: La Residence

DAY 6-9: AFRICA’S WILD ROMANCE

At Royal Malewane, a private concession bordering the world-famous Kruger National Park the Biden’s Royal Portfolio has achieved perfection again.

A marvel of wilderness romance and seclusion that blends seamlessly into this ancient land.

Gourmet, starlit dinners under the giant Leadwood trees.

The Royal Malewane Spa is world-renowned and the ideal way to unwind with a unique healing African treatment.

Royal Malewane’s guides and trackers are some of the most highly qualified in Southern Africa.
Accommodation: Kruger National Park Private Concessions

DAY 9-11: THE ROYAL VICTORIAN FALLS RETREAT

Royal Chundu is Zambia’s first Relais & Chateaux property – defined by the sumptuous luxury that blends seamlessly into the private stretch of the Zambezi River Bank.

Island Lodge is set on its own private island in the languid waters of the Zambezi, offering just four exclusive and indulgent villas.

Each palatial haven boasts a private deck suspended over the river.

The outdoor bath is a fantastic space to soak up the night sky while on cooler nights, keeping cosy in the plush lounge before retiring to your extravagant bed.

A little downriver from Royal Chundu, the Zambezi falls over the Victoria Falls to create one of the greatest demonstrations of nature’s power on planet earth.
Accommodation: Royal Chundu.

Click here for the full tour.

Kruger National Park

Madikwe

Cape Town

Cape Winelands

Tanzania

Mozambique

Victoria Falls

Botswana

Kenya

Kalahari

Category: Romance Tour