Uncategorized Archives - Iconic Africa

Cape Town Uncovered

Posted on May 30, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Cape Town has something which will appeal to all travellers – from honeymooners and romantics to big families. The multifaceted city caters for the more adventurous, as well as the leisurely who prefer beaches and spas. Without question, Cape Town is one of the world’s most spectacular cities resting against the iconic “New 7 natural wonders of the world” member, Table Mountain.

Here are a few interesting things you might not know about the Mother City:

Affectionately known as the Mother City by locals and travellers, this city’s nickname derives from theGreek word ‘metros’ meaning mother – as it was the first metropolitan city in South Africa according to Selwyn Davidowitz, a recognised Cape Town tour guide.

Another nickname you may have come across while planning your vacation to Cape Town is Cape of Storms. This name was given b the famous explorer Bartholomew Dias because of the unpredictable weather of the Atlantic Ocean that used to render ships and sailors forsaken just off our coast.

Did you know that Cape Town’s 2011 census survey indicated that 43.2% of the Western Cape’s population is 25 years or younger… This city is a hotspot for young solo travellers.

The celebrated and legendary Table Mountain which began forming around 280 million years ago witnesses at least two nuptial services a month! What better way to begin a romantic life with your beloved than overlooking candyfloss-clouds cascading down the mountain side.Did you know that the plateau of Table Mountaispans almost 22 000 hectares and claims more flora than the entire British Isles or New Zealand?

The Cape Floral Kingdom – a UNESCO world heritage site – is home to nearly 7000 indigenous plants such as the peninsula snapdragon.

Cape Town boasts the only tobogganing track in Africa…If you enjoy the thrill of downhill sledging then head 25km out of the city centre for a day of adventure at Cool Runnings.

Cape Town has been named one of this year’s top 10 cities in the world for surfing.

Meeting certain safety, security and cleanliness standards, eight Cape Town beaches have been given Blue Flag awards by the Blue Flag Campaign. These beaches include Clifton, Camps Bay, and Llandudno, as well as Muizenberg and False Bay.

Lion’s Head wasn’t name after wild felines roaming the mountain. In fact, around 300 years ago, Dutch settlers named the peak Leeuwen Kop (Lion’s Head) and what’s known as Signal Hill today as Leeuwen Staart (Lion’s Tail) because the two peaks formed what resembled a crouching lion.

The Castle of Good Hope was actually built using stone extracted from Signal Hill.

With an abundance of vineyards, it is undeniable that Cape Town is famous for its beautiful farms and wines – our key export!

For more on where to stay in our exquisite Mother City click here.

Getting to know Zambia

Posted on May 30, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Zambia – recently recognised as one of the safest countries in the world – is a landlocked country in southern Africa. Famously sharing the Victoria Falls with Zimbabwe, the Zambian side offers travellers the magnificent Devil’s Pool. Just north of the capital Lusaka, is some of Africa’s finest safari experiences that offer sightings of the Big Five as well as lechwe antelope, impalas, giraffes, zebras, hippos and various birdlife.

Balloon Safaris Zebra Iconic Africa

Besides being celebrated for its Victoria Falls border, Zambia is the land of walking safaris, the Zambezi River, an abundance of wildlife areas, rugged terrains and picturesque wilderness. Truly a country for multigenerational travel, Zambia has unprecedented natural wonders for the adrenaline-seekers and leisurely pastimes for the more timid.

Known for its copious water bodies, Zambia has seventeen Instagram-worthy waterfalls in addition to the ‘Smoke that Thunders’. The more daring can venture in to vast open spaces and remote rural areas in search of an adventure.

Here are our top five spots to add to your Zambian itinerary for a memorable vacation:

Victoria Falls

It is the largest cascade of falling water in the world! Get up close to the rushing water at the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and take your pick from plenty of fun activities nearby or take a walk across the Knife-Edge Bridge.

Lake Tanganyika

It is the second largest lake in eastern Africa, the longest freshwater lake and the second deepest in the world. It also forms part of the border between Tanzania and Zambia.

Zambezi

Feeding life into a diverse set of flora, the ‘Great River’ is the fourth-longest river in Africa and the largest flowing into the Indian Ocean from Africa. Voted one of the best white water rivers, thrill seekers can experience white water rafting and canoe safaris here.

Buffalo Walking Safaris Iconic Africa

Kalambo Falls

This world-class 235 metre single sheet drop is located on the border of Zambia and Tanzania at the bottom of Lake Tanganyika. This canopy of water is one of the tallest uninterrupted falls in Africa.

Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake. Head here for mesmerising views of the landscape and sunset or a day of fun outdoor activities such as fishing, boat safaris, water sports and so much more!

Share your spectacular photos of your Zambian adventures with us on Instagram @iconicafrica!

Multigenerational Travel – The Who, What, Where & How

Posted on May 30, 2018 by Lexi Hall

“Family is one of nature’s masterpieces.” George Santayana

Multigenerational travel – a frequent choice among travellers – has grown in popularity over the years. Families no longer focus on collecting things, but prefer accumulating authentic and memorable experiences with three or more generations ranging from infants to great-grandparents. Although traveling with such a diversely-aged group can be daunting, it has become a trend.

With more time and distance between loved ones, families are taking advantage of free time to travel and maximise family time. Each age group instigates a new travel trend – be it adventure, some R&R or personal enrichment. Fortunately, multigenerational travel can accommodate everyone’s travel needs. Appealing to all age groups, each generation can create their own memories while having an authentic experience with the entire family.

What matters is the people you are with; but so does where you go and what you do… so we have put together some multigenerational travel tips for you here:

Before choosing where to go, you need to decide who will be paying. Family vacations include the young and old, immediate family and sometimes close friends. Never assume that you are or aren’t paying. Rather discuss who’s footing what bill before planning the vacation – that way there are no surprises and you can begin to budget.

Determine a budget before you begin putting together an itinerary. Once you’ve established who’s paying for what, you can then decide where you want to go, how much you want to spend and what you would like to do.

One of the main concerns for large families is visiting a destination that works for a diverse group. This is why so many people choose Africa as their top multigenerational travel destination! It can be exhausting trying to appeal to so many age groups on different levels, but it is important that you have a balance of and enough activities – something Africa is not short of. You can accommodate those who prefer scenic game drives and luxurious pampering, adrenaline seekers and young first-timers.

The great thing about Africa is that there doesn’t have to be the debate of visiting an ‘old favourite’ or trying something new. Some families believe that returning to a place they have already been to and enjoyed is the safe choice. However, each country will evoke that special meaning or sentimental value – one of Africa’s great gifts.

Perhaps choose the same time to visit Africa, plan an itinerary that will give you the same experience and choose a new destination.

Decide on which time of the year is most suitable for the age demographics on your trip (as the weather can often determine which activities you can do) and what type of accommodation you are looking for. For larger families, it is ideal to book an entire suite or villa instead of single rooms – especially with young children.

Planning ahead and knowing what each traveller wants out of the trip is the easiest way to put together a vacation that everyone enjoys. By knowing what they hope to see and do is a good way to decide on a location. Africa can often accommodate multiple travel requirements at the same destination. Most countries have an array of landscapes and activities including mountain escapes and seaside living.

Every African country offers the wonders of nature – but southern Africa in particular is home to magnificent wildlife including the Big Five, birdlife and marine life if your family’s ideal holiday includes game drives and safari walks.

Or come down to Cape Town for the best of both – the mountain and sea. This way you can please everyone with the beach and the bush. This city is ideal for both indoor and outdoor leisure activities such as visiting Table Mountain, sea kayaking or shopping!

Africa is the ideal place to begin a tradition of multigenerational travel – especially with young children. Introduce them to the natural wonders of the world here and give them a new-found love and respect for wildlife, fauna and flora.

If child friendly accommodation is what you’re worried about, do not fret. Most lodges, reserves and parks host exciting activities and programmes for children under 12. For more on our top family friendly safari destinations click here.

Do not let multigenerational travel frighten you. Planning a family vacation of such magnitude is easy if you plan ahead. Africa offers travellers an overwhelming variety of destinations – each with its own unique culture, cuisine, landscapes and activities. In Africa, you can be amongst the mountains, in rugged terrains or near the ocean at one destination, so tailor your vacation to fulfil everyone’s travel desires!

Londolozi’s Lovely Revamp

Posted on May 15, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Londolozi effortlessly exceeds all expectations of a luxurious, hospitable, wilderness getaway and as you all know – it has a very special place in our hearts! Therefore we are incredibly proud to share with you the most recent updates including the new Varty Camp which reopened its doors to visitors on the 24 March 2018, the introduction of a completely new addition to the Londolozi family – the Londolozi Healing House, which was unveiled in April and the rejuvenation of the famous Private Granite Suites.

Our director John Holley recently returned from Londolozi, and he says“…the new Varty Rooms are exceptional! Light years ahead of the previous rooms and now a greater experience and great value for money.” “They have also made amazing little touches to the Granite Suite and really completed the whole experience.”

With elevated chalets thoughtfully merged into the beautiful riverine forest alongside the Sand River, Varty camp has refurbished the living spaces of each chalet without producing any unnecessary construction. The architectural vision remains conscious of the importance of creating simple, elegant rooms that could be havens for stillness – crafted as spaces for contemplation and where one could find time to enjoy an intangible connection to nature.

Each accommodation emulates Londolozi’s mantra of simplicity, tranquillity, peace, harmony – where guests can create quiet and deep connections with the 6 million acres of wilderness that the camp remain subordinate to.

The refurbishment of the existing chalets has placed the emphasis on outdoor living – still boasting its own private plunge pool and expansive wooden deck, looking out into the riverine bush and the abundant wildlife that roams the riverbed below.

In addition, an outdoor lounge area, outdoor shower and outdoor dining sala have been added to complement the existing symphony between man and nature. The room interiors are dressed in shades of white, grey and oak, whilst wall-to-wall mirrors reflect the riverine forest that surrounds. The footprint of the buildings, the meandering paths and old dolerite stone walls remain unchanged since their original construction, and the authentic look and feel of Varty Camp has not only been maintained but enhanced.

The brand new Healing House at Varty Camp has crafted specific treatments with the combination of bodywork and alternative wellness which offer guests the opportunity for true relaxation that will restore and transform mind, body and soul. The resident Wellness Practitioners and Therapists are trained to facilitate an unprecedented, integrated holistic nature-based experience which is unparalleled in Southern Africa.

And not forgetting Londolozi’s Private Granite Suite that pulsates romance and moulds seamlessly into the surrounding environment. The granite surfaces jutting out in front of your private deck are playgrounds for herds of elephants – so close you could almost touch them.

Set as a refuge in the inner temple of Londolozi’s five camps, the accommodation has been further enhanced by the addition of a sunset river bar and sunken cocktail lounge suspended high above ground. The Private Granite Suites themselves have been refurbished to Londolozi’s highest standards and the décor continues to honour the rooms’ proximity to the river and the daily visits by elephants in front of the camp.

For more on this – one of our most exceptional camps click here.

Sarah’s Review of Marataba

Posted on May 3, 2018May 7, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Sarah Evans has recently returned from a wonderful family trip at Marataba – an amazing destination with a backdrop of the exquisite Waterberg Mountains. “Magical” is how she described her trip in one word… here’s more on what she had to say as well as some of her exquisite photos:

If you could describe Marataba to someone who’s never been there what would you say?

“Imagine a classic, high end safari against the majestic backdrop of the Waterberg Mountains, with the added benefit of a river safari, making it reminiscent of being in the Okavango Delta!”

What was your most unforgettable moment?

“Undoubtedly, seeing a mother and daughter lioness pair, with their cubs – the mother had a 6 week old cub, who was very sweet and inquisitive, and the daughter had 3 three month old cubs. We were one of the first guests to see the new cub and it was very special – made all the more special by the fact that it was only ours and one other vehicle at the viewing.

Also, the sundown cruise on Miss Mara was unique and thoroughly enjoyable! The children wouldn’t hesitate to add the few river crossings we did in the vehicle, especially if the water made its way into the foot wells!”

What did you think of the staff at Marataba?

“Fantastic!! Our guide, Darryn, was the perfect guide for a family trip! He was very knowledgeable about the fauna and flora, engaging the children with wonderful stories of his experiences. He was also well suited to dealing with children – he was fun, kind and let them each have a turn as his “assistant” upfront in the passenger seat!

At the camp, we were looked after by Gladys who was wonderful! Always smiling, with a “welcome, thank you”, she attended to our every need.

On the whole, each and every member of staff we had interaction with were friendly and warm, we were made to feel very at home and spoilt.”

What did you love most about the safari experience?

“Being in the bush – it gets me every time! Having grown up in South Africa, with countless visits to camps in and around Kruger, Zimbabwe and Botswana, it feels special every time. Seeing nature as it should be seen – and now, on this particular occasion, introducing our children to that same experience, was very memorable for me.”

What is your favourite animal to see in the wild and why?

“It is hard to choose just one! Honestly, I have enjoyed so many sightings, which haven’t been about the Big Five, and they have been equally special.

If you twisted my arm, I would say seeing lion is always thrilling!”

What would you rate Marataba out of 10 in terms of luxury accommodation?

“9/10.”

If you could describe your trip in one word what would it be?

“Magical!”

Where in Africa would you like to go next?

“I would love to go back to Botswana with the kids, as well as Namibia.”

Thank you so much Sarah for sharing – we hope to be a part of your next African adventure!
If you have visited Marataba, share with us your favourite memory or tag us in your wonderful pictures on Instagram @iconicafrica

Angama Mara in Pictures

Posted on May 3, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Angama Mara is an extraordinary safari lodge resting high up on the Great Rift Valley, overlooking Kenya’s Maasai Mara plains – arguably one of Africa’s loveliest game reserves. The lodge, inspired by the Swahili word for ‘suspended in mid-air’, boasts magnificent views. Floating above the floor of the valley, Angama Mara seems to soar alongside the hot air balloons that sail past the floor-to-ceiling glass fronts every morning. Angama Mara brings guests next-level luxury to the customary safari experience with its excellent cuisine and warm hospitality. The accommodation brings a modern and elegant aesthetic to the rugged bush with its furnishings and amenities.

This intimate, tented mountain-estate is located on the site where scenes from the film Out of Africa were filmed. Angama Mara also offers the most magical view of the tangerine and rose sunsets every evening. But no amount of adjectives can do justice to how this magnificent accommodation makes you feel. So we have hand-picked some pictures to make you better understand the magnificence of Angama Mara…

Float over the Maasai Mara

Explore the Great Rift Valley

Enjoy an out of Africa picnic

Savour the sensational sunsets

Take in the expansive views

Get up close and personal with the Big Five

Let the wonderful staff entertain you

And so much more… here.

Getting to Know Tanzania

Posted on May 2, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Tanzania – home to seven official World Heritage sites – is bonded by cultural fusion and intriguing architecture. The country has provided outstanding examples of sustainable tourism, unbeatable natural resources, and offers exquisite landscapes, spectacular wildlife and safari adventures of a lifetime. This gem is more than mountain treks and water sports, barefoot beach walks and idyllic island living – it is teeming with dreamlike settings such as the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, Lake Tanganyika and Ernest Hemingway’s personal favourite, Lake Manyara. Climb the strenuous incline of Kilimanjaro or peer into the pit of the Mountain of God.

Let us take you on a journey through Tanzania…

The Hadzabe Bushmen are some of the last remaining hunter-gathers in Africa. Living in harmony with the earth, the indigenous group occupies the area around Lake Eyasi in the central Rift Valley and in the neighbouring Serengeti Plateau. In 2015, a census indicated between 1,200 and 1,300 Hadza people living in Tanzania, although there remains serious threats to the continuation of their traditional way of life. Spend the day with the Hadzabe people who have lived in that space for thousands of years. Engage with them and learn all about their hunting techniques, survival skills, food preparation and cultural norms.

Encounter the charismatic people of Tanzania on an undeniably authentic cultural journey. There are more than 120 ethnic groups, and no group is dominant. Interact with the Maasai people and expand your cultural and food palate. Tanzania is home to distinctive and delicious cuisine. You’ll have the chance to sample wild game like crocodile, warthog, antelope, and even ostrich. Other traditional favourites include tilapia fish, pilau rice, and samosas. However, it’s the spices used in preparation that truly make this food special. Locals frequently use coconut, cardamom, garlic, and turmeric in a number of their recipes. Fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables and nuts are found in abundance – and not forgetting the aromatic local coffee.

Here are a few facts about Tanzania to get you excited:

National Parks make up 30% of Tanzania. Each has its own varying landscapes and world-class opportunities for game spotting. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to experience the Big Five and the Serengeti National Park is home to the endangered Eastern Black Rhinoceros.

Ernest Hemingway wrote about the magnificence of Mountain Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa set in Tanzania.

Lake Tanganyika is the second largest lake in the world. It is so large that it belongs to four different countries: Tanzania, Burundi, Zambia, and Congo. The lake holds 8 percent of the world’s freshwater, and is home to 500 species of fish.

Baobabs are beautiful and fascinating trees that can easily live 1000 years or more and are found in Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park. Baobabs aren’t the only thing to see here; this park is also home to tree-climbing lions.

There’s a whole new world, under the sea! Dive or snorkel off one of Zanzibar’s islands and experience up-close encounters with lionfish, leaf fish, sea horse, green turtles, and even frog fish.

Before you go, feast on what is reportedly one of the most delicious crabs – Tanzania’s coconut crab. This is the largest crab in the world at up to 1 metre long and can be found on Chumbe Island of Zanzibar.

For a selection of the most sought-after luxury Tanzanian accomodation click here.

Singita Pamushana Lodge – Re-opening

Posted on April 12, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Introducing the New Singita Pamushana Lodge – Re-opening Mid May 2018

Singita Pamushana is one of Zimbabwe’s best kept secrets found atop a hill overlooking the vast Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve. Resting beneath towering tree canopies, the lodge is integrated into the natural environment and the forest-like architecture allows for unrestricted views of the pool, the lush gardens and the lake below. The Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is home to an abundance of birds and wildlife such as the black rhino and sable antelope. Also visible from the lodge is the cathedral Mopane forests and world-famous ‘upside-down’ Baobab trees. Singita Pamushana Lodge is currently closed while it undergoes a face-lift, but will be re-opening mid-May 2018 so that you may once again be privilege to these beautiful sights and sceneries.

Singita Pamushana’s transformation will offer guests the opportunity to not only take in the landscapes, but relax in ultra-luxurious traditional spaces that are both reminiscent of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins while signalling modern optimism with its style, interiors and architecture.

The refurbished Singita Pamushana is reflective of an African Palace. The majestic architecture has always been a signature of the lodge and will be further amplified with the main lodge decks and living spaces being extended to maximise the connection to the natural beauty of the surrounding area in the Malilangwe Reserve.

New interiors of the lodge will reflect original references to the local Shangaan culture and will be mixed with contemporary forms and styles inspired by these African patterns and shapes. Smart and refined details will set the tone against massive proportions and colour blocked palettes of ochre tan, ebony black, ivory white, gold and brass metals.

This small and intimate lodge will extend its accommodation with two additional, 2-bedroom suites. Singita Pamushana will now accommodate a total of 8 suits and 1 5-bedroomed villa.

The brand new suites will be more remote, offering privacy and exclusivity. Situated a distance from the main lodge, these two suites are perfectly suited for couple getaways and family vacations as it is charged on a per unit rate. The master bedrooms boast an outdoor shower, allowing guests’ unlimited freedom to be in and one with nature. Relax in your private plunge pool, or in front of the double-sided fireplace. No palatial accommodation is complete without royal amenities – set out on to the game viewing deck with the lodge’s Swarovski spotting scope.

Take a stroll back to the main lodge area for an evening meal in the open dining room, or visit Singita Pamushana’s library for an interesting read. There is no place here that won’t have you relaxing – whether it is the bar, open-air lounge, the wine cellar or one of the heated swimming pools, you’ll always be overlooking the Malilangwe dam and sandstone hills.

Property of the Month – Mara Plains

Posted on April 9, 2018 by Lexi Hall

“Maisha Mairefu,” Swahili for “here’s to a long life,’ says Sentewo, Mara Plains Guide. “Your day is done; relax and close your eyes while the Masai Mara beckons you to return again at first light”.

Imagine a camp located in the epicentre of some of Africa’s greatest predator country… Welcome to Mara Plains Camp, this month’s property of the month.

Located on the northern border of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, the enchanting camp is positioned on a bend of the Ntiakitiak River in a secluded private conservancy.

Enter a mythical world via a wooden footbridge over a river, accentuating the seclusion and intimacy of this elegant property. The tents – tucked away amongst lush vegetation – reference Arica’s rich heritage with chunky wooden doors from the Swahili enclave; deep red and purple shades that honour the spirit of the Maasai; and rich leather, copper and brass embellishments taking you back to the colonial explorers. It is one of the smallest and most personal camps in the Mara region – and just one of three operating within the Conservancy. This region has the lowest vehicle density and accommodates one guest room per 700 acres.

Your very own piece of the Masai Mara

In amongst whistling thorns, white thorns, fever trees and wild olives the great plains of Kenya are home to many of Africa’s most majestic animals. The red grass savannahs, interminable vistas and distinct horizons combine to ensure the epitome of a breathtaking African panorama. The density and variety of wildlife is astounding and the area boasts much of the unique Kenyan plains game such as the graceful Thompsons, Grant’s gazelle and the colourful Topis, it’s a predator’s paradise. Everything in absolute abundance.

Luxuriously indulgent colonial suites

“The rooms are what set Mara Plains apart, they are more spacious and more magnificent than any other camp I’ve ever been to.” says Jess, Camp Manager. Tucked into the river bend, in amongst hippo, monkeys and a plethora of birds sit the seven elegant suites. Each one is more like a home than a suite and is exquisitely designed to give you complete privacy, an unbeatable view, and your very own paradise of African bushveld. The wooden floors, neutral palette, draped canvas and natural fabrics are discreet allowing the beauty of the outside world to envelop you, even once inside. The gentle breeze wafts through the sides, the sounds of Africa entertain you and your nostrils are filled with the freshness of the lush riverine woodland and endless savannahs. Elaborate furnishings, leather finishes, Persian carpets, deep reds and a delightful mixture of wood and copper combine to marry the Arab and Maasai influences, characteristic of Ancient Swahili heritage.

Unparalleled game viewing and expert guides

Game drives at Mara Plains are action-packed. There is an awe-inspiring landscape, the notorious Big Five, magnitudes of plains game and so much more to investigate that your erudite and affable guide will not only proudly show you, but also teach you about. End off your day sitting with an iced cold G and T in hand, watching a pride of lion, as the sun descends below the horizon, the light fades and gives way to an endless starry night.

For more on this exquisite property click here.

Africa – Where Luxury Meets Adventure

Posted on April 9, 2018April 9, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Africa awakens the soul and conjures up an adventurous spirit in everyone – leaving you forever touched by its wonders. You may want to experience river rafting, mountain climbing and whale-watching or hike Africa’s rugged terrains. If you enjoy adventure travel but want amenities such as private guides, shuttle services, exclusive upgrades and VIP treatment, we will show you the way!

Adding a touch of luxury to your travels doesn’t mean that you won’t have an authentic experience, in fact far from it! For many of our guests, luxury adventure trips add more memorable moments to an already exciting holiday. Be filled with wonder and excitement for what you are seeing and doing, and be as comfortable as possible while doing so.

We have handpicked a selection of adventure travel activities between South Africa and Zimbabwe which offer extraordinary explorations and experiences that both enrich and exhilarate:

Stay With the Locals

Scattered throughout Zululand are homesteads that welcome visitors. Guests can experience traditional “rondavel” thatched huts, visit the local school, community and herbal healer. Take a glimpse into contemporary Zulu life, including the local food, music and dance during evening cultural programmes.

Canyoning along a River in the Cape

Prepare to get wet climbing and leaping your way down a river; abseiling and zip-lining where there are steep drops and floating down stream. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the forests passing by, before the adrenaline rush of plunging in to mini waterfalls and swimming between rock walls leaves you anticipating that dry, mossy log to rest on.

Sand-Boarding Down ‘The Dragon’

Feet strapped down, atop a huge sand dune, shuffling forward until you start to slide down ‘The Dragon’ – the longest sandboarding dune in South Africa at 300 meters. Engage those core muscles whether you’re feet down on a sand-board or tummy down on a body board until you topple over at the bottom of the slope.

Abseiling Down Table Mountain

Table Mountain is a must-do when in Cape Town, but not many people get the opportunity to see the iconic mountain from this angle. Dangling from a vertical cliff face, you’ll be able to take in the majestic views of the Mother City. Catch the cable car up the mountain and get strapped into your harness. Then, standing backwards on the top of the mountain, heels over the cliff edge, lean backwards into thin air.

Then, head off to Zimbabwe to keep you on your toes, but not by car or plane…

Luxury Rail in Southern Africa

Return to the golden age of rail travel aboard the Rovos Rail. Experience luxury travel and grandeur using the most lavish train in the world. Enjoy the old world charm and fine cuisine of the Rovos Rail as you make your way through splendid views and natural landscapes en route to the majestic Victoria Falls.

Travelling to Zimbabwe and not ticking these adventure activities off your bucket-list is like visiting Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower…

Raft one of the World’s Best Rivers for White Water

Explore the river that creates these great falls in a different way. White water-raft your way down this iconic river with a trained operator. For those adrenaline seekers, this is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have.

Bungee Jump off one of the Most Scenic Bridges in the World

Bungee with your ankles tied, a star elevator jump or into a back flip into the spray of the falls from the Victoria Falls Bridge. You’ll free fall for four seconds from 111 metres. Adrenaline junkies will need no convincing as the Victoria Falls Bungee has been consistently voted as one of the world’s top five adrenaline experiences.

Gorge-Swing Across The Zambezi River

The Wild Horizons Gorge Swing sends you on a three-second free fall down a 70-metre drop that turns into a 95-metre-long pendulum swing. The jumping ropes are pivoted in the middle of the 316-metre-long high-wire that connects the cliffs, 120 metres above the tumbling river.

Cable Slide `

Take a running leap into the air and soar over Batoka Gorge in the Superman position at speeds of around 10-15km/hour. This Wild Horizons Flying Fox cable slide takes approximately seven minutes to make the 200-metre-long flight from one end of the canyon to the other and back.

The Flight of Angels

Go micro-lighting over the Victoria Falls – an experience that can’t be explained, it must be experienced! View the thundering Victoria Falls from an aerial view in an open cockpit microlight aeroplane that can carry one passenger and one pilot. Exposed to the elements, the wind in your hair and the sun on your face – let the mounted camera capture you in a moment that words cannot describe.

Hike Zimbabwe’s Highest Peak

A relatively moderate climb with very little steep inclines will take you to Zimbabwe’s highest peak, Mt. Nyangani (2,592m). These are the eastern highlands, with notoriously interchangeable weather (so be sure to use an expert local guide) that reveals a moving heaven once the clouds have passed.

These are only a few of the adventures available… many more await travellers! Click here and find out more about how you can create lifelong memories for you and your family.

Coming Soon: Singita Kwitonda – Rwanda

Posted on April 3, 2018April 3, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Singita is honoured to be opening their Kwitonda Lodge in August 2019 in Rwanda, an extraordinarily beautiful, small country where more than one third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live in the forests of Volcanoes National Park. Singita Kwitonda, situated along the Kwitonda trail, will boast 12 luxury hotel rooms, 8 of them being high-end villas with magnificent views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes.

Emmanuel Hategeka – Chief Operations Officer at Rwanda Development Board – emphasizes that Rwanda will no longer be a “brief stop” on a traveller’s itinerary, but rather offer them a “lifetime hospitality experience”. Rwanda is intended to become a high-end tourism destination – especially with its world-famous mountain gorillas and the opening of Singita’s new luxury lodge.

The Singita Rwanda Lodge will be named after a deceased silverback known as Kwitonda, who died 5 years ago.

The architectural design of Kwitonda Lodge will embody the spirit of Rwanda and offer a tribute to Kwitonda – a legendary silverback gorilla who was known for his humility and gentleness. An important component of the design is the human impact on the land – following architects and interior designer’s selection of locally sourced and produced materials for the interior finishing. The local community has also been engaged in building traditional dry stone walling on site.

Singita is extending its conservation footprint to Rwanda. The geographical location of the Kwitonda Lodge on the park border will create a natural space to help reinforce the buffer area between agricultural plots and the habitat of the estimated 320 mountain gorillas that find sanctuary here.

Farming is an important primary sector of the economy and reforestation of land heavily impacted by agriculture is vital. Singita will initially include the establishment of a nursery and the planting of over 60,000 tree saplings in and around the Kwitonda Lodge. Ultimately, Singita aims to support the Rwandan government in finding ways to increase the gorilla habitat while remaining sensitive in assisting neighbouring communities to thrive economically and socially.

Kwitonda Lodge embodies Rwanda’s gentle and regenerative spirit and provides guests with a contemplative and nurturing space in which to appreciate and take in the wildlife and landscapes. The opening of the lodge not only makes gorilla trekking accessible, but allows guests the option of combining their visit to Rwanda with a stopover at Singita’s private concession on the Serengeti plains in Tanzania.

Besides Rwanda’s world-famous gorillas and its golden monkeys, there is much more to see and explore. From the Afro montane forests of Nyungwe National Park and primordial Lake Kivu to the vibrant and sophisticated capital city, Kigali, guests are guaranteed a full itinerary.

Iconic’s Hand-picked Singita Images

Posted on March 15, 2018 by Lexi Hall

Singita, means “place of miracles,” which truly embodies everything for which this incredible brand has become famous. Astonishing game viewing, amplified by exquisite accommodation and outstanding home-grown cuisine – all with a touch of genuine, warm African hospitality. For many avid African travellers, Singita represents the summit of luxury African safari. This world class

experience has been recognised globally with endless awards in numerous travel publications!

Singita has been preserving African wildlife and landscapes across South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe for the past twenty years. Promising an exceptional safari experience at twelve of their award-winning lodges and camps, Singita is able to partially fund the protection and preservation of pristine wilderness, not to mention help create economic independence within local communities surrounding the reserves.

With several lodges and camps across three African countries – there is so much of sensational Singita to digest. To give you a quick feel of what they’re all about we’ve gathered together our top handpicked images here: