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Property of the Month – Singita Lebombo
Iconic Africa’s relationship with Singita dates back decades and we certainly have a significant soft spot for their lodges – they really and truly are magical places. This month we’d like to congratulate Singita Lebombo as July’s Property of the Month.
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! At last count Singita had in fact won “Top Hotel in the World” awards an implausible 16 times!
For a quick taste of the magic that awaits you there click on the video below:
Singita Lebombo perches ceremoniously along ancient cliff tops overlooking vast African plains and the magnificent Nwanetsi River. Set on the 33 000 acre private concession within the world famous Kruger National Park, this is a lodge that embodies African sophistication and an extravagant panache which only the Singita collection could have created. It is little wonder Singita Lebombo is consistently voted amongst the top hotels and lodges in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Conde Nast Traveller and many others. Here are a few reasons why we love this lodge:
African extravagance
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.
Fine dining
Singita Lebombo has become renowned for its fine dining and its private wine collection. Each meal is expertly tailored by the Lebombo chefs to your tastes and preferences; paired by your Sommelier to ensure an enchanting African cuisine and wine experience.
Unmatched African discoveries
Singita Lebombo is however not just celebrated for its luxury. The 33 000 acre private concession covers 4 different eco-zones and offers a diverse selection of fauna and flora. This in turn supports a diverse and high density of wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon game drives venture into the Lebombo Mountains and expansive African plains. Skilled rangers and Shangaan trackers work tirelessly to ensure you are all but guaranteed your view of the mysterious Big 5.
Singita activities
In between game drives relax peacefully at the Lebombo swimming pool or treat yourself to an African Spa treatment. If you fancy something a little more energetic then wander across to the Lebombo gym, head into the African wilderness for a guided walk or hop onto a mountain bike and explore the Lebombo Mountains in the company of your game ranger.
Ideal holidays
An African luxury safari is the ultimate family vacation. Singita Lebombo welcomes children over the age of ten years and has a tailored kid’s programme to ensure your children are stimulated and entertained – while you relax! A family safari vacation is a time to bond with your loved ones, experiencing the wonders of Africa’s wilderness together, away from life’s many disruptions.
Whether you choose to unwind or partake in the many stirring Singita Lebombo activities; Iconic Africa is certain your stay at this luxurious lodge will exceed your wildest dreams, creating a lifespan of memories and awakening your passions to quintessential Africa.
Iconic Africa enjoys a long standing relationship with the Singita team which allows us swift and simple access to fantastic rates and availability. Simply contact one of our African safari experts and begin your journey to Africa with us.
Experience of the Month – Great Migration
There is no natural phenomenon quite like The Great Migration which takes place in East Africa every year. The wildebeest migration is rated as one of the world’s most incredible wildlife spectacles, and an experience that should have its place on every safari-lover’s bucket list – this month, it’s our Experience of the Month! For a very quick sneak peek of what awaits you in East Africa have a look at the video below and for more on the actual migration…. keep reading!
Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope migrate clockwise around the Serengeti/Masai Mara ecosystem. They travel up to 3000 kilometers 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.
We were fortunate enough to witness the world’s greatest wildlife show in the Serengeti last year. Here’s a little taste of what you have to look forward to:
“We were overwhelmed with disbelief as we watched 5000 wildebeest scramble down the steep cliff and launch themselves into the muddy water with absolute faith that they would make it to the other side. They swam in hoards, tenaciously fighting the current, and then climbing up the far bank to join their teammates in tangible jubilation. The noise was deafening; the panic was palpable. It was literally survival of the fittest. They just kept coming… and they just kept swimming… we couldn’t believe how many there were and how determined they were to get to the other side.”
“We had done it! We had witnessed the wonder of the great crossing and, my goodness, was it worth every second we had waited. From the first day of our trip there had been unspoken anticipation and excitement about whether or not we would be lucky enough to see the great migration. You can never truly know if you will be fortunate—that is nature’s unpredictability and, as a result, the prize is an even sweeter gift that no one can ever take away from you. It’s Africa at its best, it’s nature showing off, and it’s certainly something every human should witness.”
The trouble with the wildebeest migration is that it can be so unpredictable and, if you get your timing wrong, you could miss the whole event. Therefore, it is imperative to do your homework first and to work out where and when to go before you even book your flights!
There are typical movement patterns but they can, and do, vary from month-to-month, and year-to-year, as the herds follow the rains and the new grass. Being amongst the migration is an experience like no other; it truly is something you will never forget. The herds stretch for as far as the eye can see, there’s endless mooing, and an awe-inspiring sense of knowing that this community of wildebeest works together towards the common goal of survival.
There are certain times of the year where you have a better chance of experiencing the magic of the migration. Click here for some pointers on when to go to East Africa.
We wish you all the best on your mission to see Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacle! For more information on the absolute abundance that awaits you in East Africa, click here! For more advice on booking an epic Great Migration safari, click here.
Instagram Takeover – Lucien Beaumont
Specialist safari guide, wildlife photographer and friend of Iconic Africa, Lucien Beaumont has been kind enough to share some of his best shots of 2017 so far. Just in case you missed these on Instagram click here and scroll down. Thank you Lucien!
Property of the Month – Royal Malewane
This month we’d like to congratulate our friends and colleagues at the Royal Portfolio for a real shining star in a world-class collection of properties.
Presenting our Property of the Month – the Royal Portfolio’s, Royal Malewane.
This video says it all – but just in case you need more reason to visit this sensational property… read on for more.
On a private game reserve bordering the Kruger National Park lies the conquering queen of African luxury experiences. This Royal majesty is set against the silhouetted back drop of the towering Drakensberg Mountains. Yet despite this awe inspiring setting it is the Royal Malewane’s lavish attention to detail in every aspect which belies belief and which has earned this regal property its plethora of “World’s Best” awards over the past decade.
Luxury beyond compare
The Royal Malewane reserve is set in the Mpumulanga lowveld and is well-known for its consistently incredible game viewing. Royal Malewane is the undoubted icon of extravagant safari destinations and offers its guests every modern-day comfort and convenience while at the same time embracing the wild heart of Africa. Royal Malewane prides itself in sharing an exclusive safari experience beyond compare with its heightened attentiveness to ultimate privacy, personalised hospitality and incredible wildlife sightings. The inclusion of the Royal Malewane Bush Spa, world-renowned for its striking setting and oasis of treatments, crowns the safari and all round experience with sheer indulgent pleasure.
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.
The air-conditioned luxury suites are an opulent hideaway from the heat of the bushveld yet display unparalleled views of wild spaces beyond. Each suite is generously spacious with a private outside wooden deck and rim-flow pool. If you are in luck, a small herd of elephant might drink even from the pool waters as you take an afternoon plunge. Classic mahogany furnishings compliment the refined extravaganza of Persian carpets and canopied king-size bed while indoor and outdoor showers leave you rejuvenated and refreshed.
The Royal suites exemplify the definition of style and splendour. An enormous outside deck and sparkling pool give even four guests the freedom to cherish their solitude, and the inside living areas tell stories of colonial times gone by through treasured antiques and over-sized chandeliers.
Both the Luxury suites and the Royal suites speak to guests seeking a high-end luxury retreat.
The Royal assault on our senses
World beating game viewing
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. Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino, to name but a few, are enthusiastically pursued by the passionate guide and tracker team. What’s more if viewing the highly endangered Black Rhino is on your wish list then there is no better place than Royal Malewane to get a glimpse of this exceptionally rare animal.
Homely indulgent cuisine
The dining experience at Royal Malewane is a signatory feature. Let your imagination run wild while savouring delectable dishes under the stars in the boma or by candle-light in the Bedouin tent. Service is of a premium standard and you are lovingly serenaded whether it is by the night’s natural chorus or the hum of traditional song and dance.
Africa’s crystal clean ambiance
Inhale the gentle tannins and rich forest-floor aromas wafting out of a goblet of Merlot or take a relaxing amble along the elevated walkways in search of a commonly-found Mopane Tree. The kidney-shaped pods release a fragrance of rich raw honey and the butterly leaves make for unusual bookmarks.
Royal Malewane’s activities
Royal Malewane offers an exciting assortment of additional luxurious activities from helicopter flights and hot air balloon rides to a round of golf on the exclusive Leopard Creek Championship Golf Estate. But for those in need of relaxation and tranquillity, Royal Malewane’s Bush Spa is dedicated to timeless languor.
A Magical Babymoon at Marataba
We all know the term “honeymoon” and what that entails… but this isn’t the only “moon” that one can look forward to. Now becoming an increasing popular activity amongst expectant parents is what has been termed a “babymoon.” And from my experience… this is definitely something worth investigating especially if you can do a once-in-a-lifetime African safari, and head off into the sunset… a last adventure as two! There really is nothing better.
My husband, our ever-growing baby bump and I set off to Marataba for this very reason, in excited anticipation – but with no idea of the incredible experience that awaited us there.
Marataba is located 4 hours North-West of Johannesburg in a malaria-free zone, very important if you are pregnant. It’s only a short/drive or flight away so perfect for even just a couple of nights or as part of a greater South African holiday.
We arrived at the lodge, to be greeted by heart-warming African, smiles, enchanting staff and refreshing beverages. From the moment you step foot into the lodge the view and the vista of the exquisite Waterberg Mountains in the distance transfix you. It is at this point that Africa starts, refilling, rejuvenating and inspiring your soul!
The tented suites are all completely private, perfectly appointed and expertly designed to make you feel like you have your very own piece of African paradise to yourselves. The lavish bath, breath-taking outside shower and over-sized bed fitted with only the finest linen, makes you feel like King and Queen.
Every meal is prepared with the utmost care and attention. Whether it’s the kudu loin, the butternut soup, the steamy oxtail or the delicious teatime brownies… you can’t help but ask for more! The service is absolutely outstanding and cannot be faulted. Each member of staff, whether it’s a waiter, game guide or your very own butler acts as your host and does everything possible to make your stay more enjoyable. They really do take “going above and beyond” to a whole other level. From special romantic turn-downs, to hot bubble baths, to complimentary massages, to surprise lantern-lit boma dinners, to non-alcoholic champagne on the sunset boat cruise and so much more. The staff at Marataba surprised and delighted us, every moment of our stay there. Having only been there 2 days – we left feeling as if we were leaving family behind.
The bushveld at Marataba was lush and green and the game abundant. In only 2 days we had some incredible encounters with Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Here’s just a brief snapshot of what we came across: a leopard hunting at dusk, lions feeding on a kudu, white rhinos grazing, elephants drinking at the waterhole, hippos lazing in the river, buffalo feeding in the riverbed… and so much more. Not to mention the smaller wonders, the birds… from red and yellow-billed hornbills, to grey go away birds, to crimson breasted shrikes, to woodland and malachite kingfishers, to paradise flycatchers and whydahs… the list is endless.
Whether it was watching the sun turn the Waterberg Mountain range pink at sunset, enjoying a lantern-lit meal under the stars, a rock shandy by the pool or a steamy hot amarula coffee at the waterhole… our two days at Marataba were filled with epic and memorable moments. So much so, that if felt like we’d been there for at least a week!
We left feeling inspired, overjoyed, overflowing with a love for the African bush and the incredible intricacies with which our world is made, an appreciation for our beautiful country and it’s people and lastly an excitement for what the future holds for us. Now we just can’t wait until we can come back as three and show our little one what an exceptional continent we live on and to teach him/her all that there is to know about nature, wildlife and how everything has it’s place in the world.
A massive thank you to the More Group and specifically to Clive, Ralf, Nadea, Kabelo and the rest of the team for spoiling us so. More hospitality – really is on another level… you really and truly do create to inspire! We can’t wait to return and will be back soon.
Apple and Buckwheat Bircher Muesli
“There’s a lot to love about this humble jar of soaked overnight oats – not only is it full of nourishing goodness, but it’s also a brilliant blank canvas for so many different fruits and flavours, and it’s your best friend for when you’re dashing out the door for a busy day ahead, or just simply heading out for a picnic to enjoy the great outdoors.” Sarah Graham.
Ingredients
Add the following to a large mixing bowl
- 1 cup buckwheat, rinsed
- 1 heaped cup whole oats
- 2 apples (or pears or even carrots or beetroot) finely chopped
- 1 cup roughly chopped blanched almonds or pecan nuts (or a mix of both)
- ½ cup mixed seeds
- ½ cup cranberries (without added sugar)
- 2 Tbsp hemp seeds, or 1 Tbsp hemp seed powder
- 2 Tbsp baobab powder
- ½ cup fresh orange or apple juice (or clementine)
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1-2 cups cooled rooibos tea (mixed with 1 tsp honey if you like) or nut milk
- ½ – 1 cup maas (or buttermilk)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1-2 Tbsp of cacao powder for chocolate variation
Toppings, to serve
- Greek Yoghurt or coconut cream
- Extra nuts and seeds (chia seeds, mixed seeds)
- Honey or maple syrup (just a small drizzle)
- Fresh or frozen berries (blueberries)
What to do
Mix everything together, transfer to a large glass jar with a lid, and store in the fridge overnight or until serving.
Notes
If you are gluten intolerant make sure you buy certified gluten free oats.
One batch lasts in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Photo from ‘Sarah Graham’s Food Safari Season 2’ by Ricardo de Leça.
Month on Instagram
It’s official – the first quarter of 2017 is now behind us!
From launching Iconic experiences, to visiting new hotels, to living the life of luxury at Kirkman’s, to touring top Cape destinations, to investigating Africa’s most rare creatures, to sampling new G&T recipes and so much more… we’ve kept ourselves busy!
Scroll down here for a bite-size portion of what’s been happening and a little taste of Africa for your Friday
Remember to tag @iconicafrica in your posts on Instagram and we will feature your image in our feed. #luxury #safari #travel #africa
The Life of Luxury at Kirkman’s Camp
I had no expectations when I first arrived at Kirkman’s Camp. Yes, I knew it was a safari lodge, that it was one of the best, and that it would surely be hot and sticky – it being summer. However, somehow knowing the price tag and viewing the photographs online had not prepared me for a level of luxury I had yet to experience in this life. It all began with the double hand wave…
When we arrived on that casual Wednesday afternoon, in shorts and a t-shirt, a little tired after driving two hours from Nelspruit, I was mostly thinking about having a shower and drinking something cold, like a coke with some ice. However, when we were greeted by a group of staff in uniform, all smiling and waving at us with both hands, complete with refresher towels on a tray, and then proceeded to direct us to the perfect welcome drink (ice-cold, homemade lemonade) I realised I had been quite ignorant as to what to expect.
What was even more ridiculous to me was when I later realised that they do this to every guest, every day! Coming or going I think it is a lodge policy that you get this double hand wave. It seems that just one hand will not suffice. The reason I labour this point is that I think it is symbolic for the lodge’s philosophy: if you are to do something for this guest do it well. Incredibly well. This was probably no more evident than with their meals. All eight of them. Daily. (Yes, that is one every two hours or so!) Let me try and break that down for you…
- 05:00 – Pre-game drive breakfast snack, coffee or tea et al
- 30 – Mid-game drive snack, coffee, tea, amarula and hot chocolate…
- 30 – Post-game drive buffet breakfast, croissants, juices, eggs, meats, crumpets, fruit, you name it, they’ll do it
- 13:00 – No game drive lunch, again exquisite, filling, exorbitant, delicious
- 16:00 – Pre-game drive high tea: cakes, pastries, iced tea, coffee et al
- 19:30 – Mid-game drive sundowner: G&T’s and luxury snacks et al
- 20:30 – Post-game drive drinks and snacks at the bar
- 21:00 – Finally, dinner, just in case you’re not full yet
I wrote ‘et al’ a lot, and that is because not only was there a lot more that I could mention in this blog post, but we did indeed eat a lot of food! This was just the food and drinks aspect of the trip, never mind the room service, the game drives, the 800 thread-count cotton sheets, the gorgeous bath with a view of the Sand River and the elephants having a bath of their own.
I would say the highlights of this safari trip were the many delicious meals and exhilarating game drives – somewhat likely because that is how we spent 75% of our waking hours – but it is sometimes those small things that make an already amazing trip incredible. Midday swims in the infinity pool overlooking the river, a well-stocked bar fridge that is replenished probably thrice daily, a personal hand-written note from the manager ensuring we were enjoying ourselves, and generous amounts of air-conditioning in the suite!
All in all, I had never expected such lavish living, such treatment as if royalty, and yet such a simple existence. And perhaps therein lies the secret to Kirkman’s success: that while you’re busy enjoying a break from the city and the busyness of life, behind the scenes over a hundred staff are scurrying around to ensure your time with them is unforgettable. In fact, if I close my eyes, I can still bring to memory all the staff double-waving to me right now.
For more on the magic that awaits at Kirkman’s Kamp click here.
About the author:
Mike is an avid traveller and a real estate photographer based in Cape Town, South Africa. Mike loves writing, photography and experiencing unique moments in life. You can see more of Mike’s real estate photography here.
Africa’s Rare Finds
Are you wondering what animals should be at the top of your wish list for your upcoming safari? Here are 5 of Africa’s rare finds that you should most definitely keep your eyes peeled for. A sighting of any one of these incredible creatures is undoubtedly be an experience you will never forget!
- African Wild Dog
With only 6600 Wild Dogs left on earth, the African Wild Dog is one of the most endangered animals in the world. You can still find Wild Dogs in southern Africa, Tanzania, and northern Mozambique. Wild Dogs are also known as “painted wolves” because of their attractive and characteristic patchy markings. Every Wild Dog has its own unique markings, making each Wild Dog an individual. Wild Dogs hunt in packs and they are intelligent and harmonious hunters—they have a distinct hunting style that allows them to work together to bring down prey. The entire pack takes turns looking after the pups.
- White Rhino
White Rhinos were on the edge of becoming extinct but, because of hugely successful conservation efforts, the White Rhino is currently the least endangered species of living rhino. White Rhinos are the second largest land mammal on the planet. You can tell the difference between black rhinos and white rhinos by looking at their upper lips. A white rhino will have a square lip, which is why they are also known as ‘the square-lipped rhino’. A black rhino boasts a pointed (triangular) upper lip. If you’re hoping to spot one of these beauties, you are more likely to find them in the early morning, late afternoon, and evening.
- Aardvark
The name ‘aardvark’ is an Afrikaans word which means ‘earth pig’ or ‘ground pig’. Aardvarks are also known as Cape anteaters. They use their strong feet and claws to dig into huge termite mounds so that they can treat themselves to their favourite food! Their tongues can be up to 30.5 centimetres long which means that they can catch approximately 50 000 termites in one go. African folklore reveres Aarvarks because of the way they search for food and because they are not afraid of soldier ants.
- Pangolin
The Pangolin is the most trafficked and hunted animal in the world because their scales, which are very valuable, are used in traditional Chinese medicine. The animal is called a Pangolin because the Malay word ‘pengguling’ means ‘rolling up’. Pangolins roll up into a tight ball when they feel threatened. Interestingly, there is no record of how long pangolins can live for in the wild. Speculation suggests that they can live for up to 20 years because the oldest pangolin in captivity lived for 19 years. Mothers carry their babies on their tails for the first three months of their lives.
- Pel’s Fishing Owl
Pel’s Fishing Owl is the largest fishing owl that can be found in Africa and it is also known as the African fishing-owl. This owl is distinct because its legs and toes don’t have any feathers. Instead, the toes are covered in spiky scales that allow the owl to hold on to wriggling fish. Pel’s Fishing Owl is also different from other owls because it doesn’t have a concave facial disk. This is because it uses its sight to hunt instead of its hearing. This type of owl is not a threatened species but it is listed as vulnerable because the rivers and streams that it relies on for food are heavily polluted.
Please do let us know if you have been lucky enough to spot one, two or even all of these 5 beautiful creatures. If not and you’d like to… let us know and we will do our very best to help you!
Property of the Month – Madikwe Safari Lodge
Iconic Africa has developed an excellent rapport with and respect for the More family who have been at the forefront of ecotourism for four generations. For the second month, we would like to congratulate them on another outstanding property – Madikwe Safari Lodge, a real favourite amongst our families travelling.
Watch the video below to get a feel for what Madikwe Safari Lodge is all about.
Here are a few reasons why this property stands out for us this month:
Malaria free and abundant wildlife
Iconic Africa is constantly awed by malaria free Madikwe. The reserve unfailingly delivers breath-taking animal sightings while the changing beauty of the landscape is a constant inspiration. The More family have harnessed the essence of this African wilderness with the luxury and splendour of Madikwe Safari Lodge and tailored the experiences to ensure the perfect get away for honeymooners and families alike.
Three camps of excellence and opulence
Madikwe Safari Lodge is owned by the More family. They have conceived and created three extravagant camps spread between two picturesque and boulder-strewn hills on the eastern side of the magnificent Madikwe Game Reserve. The three camps offer exquisite privacy and romance, the premier family safari experience and the perfect place for small groups and celebrations.
Lelapa is a sumptuous 12-suite camp that offers the premier family-orientated safari with specialised rangers and facilities for budding young naturalists.
Kopano, with just four suites, boasts exceptional privacy and indulgent luxury. It is perfect for romantic African getaways and honeymoons.
Dithaba, higher up the mountain and boasting awe-inspiring panoramas , consists of four lavish suites and is ideal for small groups or families that want to book the whole camp and turn it into a luxury safari home away from home.
The three charming camps are situated within walking distance of each other. This means that Madikwe Safari Lodge can cater for large group safaris, weddings or other celebrations where all 20 suites are required.
Madikwe Safari Lodge’s highly-trained rangers are equipped to show you all the wonders of the reserve – as a family, as a couple in love or as a group of friends. There are specially designed wilderness activities for children of all ages. For couples looking for the ancient romance of Africa, there is exceptional seclusion and peace on safari.
The Wonders of the Madikwe wilderness
Madikwe Game Reserve, proclaimed in 1991 is a South African conservation gem. It is 75 000ha of land consisting of state owned and some private land. What was unproductive and damaged farmland has been restored to a haven for 10 000 head of game including all of Africa’s iconic species – lion, leopard, elephant, black and white rhino, buffalo, wild dog and cheetah. There are teeming herds of general game including wildebeest, zebra and springbok.
Madikwe rests on the edge of the Kalahari Desert. It is semi-arid, receiving just 350mm of rain annually but despite this supports an astonishing variety of fauna and flora. More than 60 species of mammal have been recorded at Madikwe and the bird list is now topping 350 species.
In the east, Madikwe is bounded by the Marico River – a perennial stream. To the west lies the Kalahari and the northern border is the national boundary with Botswana. The south is bounded by the purple and red Dwarsberg Hills. Undulating woodlands stretch north from the hills eventually falling over the Tweedepoort escarpment onto the low-lying savannahs and grassland. The plains are dotted with inselbergs where baboons, hyrax and klipspringer keep a watchful eye for the attentions of Africa’s elusive leopard.
While providing a refuge for South Africa’s natural heritage, Madikwe has created an entire economy which supports the local people living around the reserve – predominantly through employment. This support for local people is crucial if conservation and ecotourism are to achieve grass-roots support.
For more on magical Madikwe please feel free to contact us here.
Instagram Takeover – Clyde Thomas
Our very own @clydeothomas has spent the last ten days exploring the Kruger National Park from the comfort of @andbeyondkirkmanskamp and @andbeyondngala. He was kind enough to share the highlights of his trip in an awesome #IATakeover. Just in case you missed it on Instagram, scroll down here, for a sneak peek at some of the wonderful encounters he’s had over the last couple of days. #southafrica #bigfive #safari