Author: James

Mobile Migration Tanzania: in the Thick of Things

Posted on by James

First off, it’s important to understand what mobile camps actually are in the context of this post. Whilst some mobile camps are packing up and moving almost daily, the ones we are referring to here only change location twice a year, moving between north and south in the Serengeti Ecosystem in order to have front row seats to one of the greatest wildlife displays on earth, the migration of millions of wildebeest between grazing grounds.

The migration essentially follows a clockwise route from the calving grounds in the south around Ndutu Plains, heading up along the western corridor of the Serengeti through April and May and into the Grumeti area.
As more rain falls to the north, the herds continue towards the Mara River – the scene of the famous crossings – and surge through the Lamai wedge into the Mara Triangle of Kenya (this is around July/August), before moving east and then back south again, ending up in the southern end of the Serengeti to calve once more come January.

Now, if you’re a camp specifically in place for guests to be able to enjoy the majesty of the herds streaming past each day, you’re in a bit of a pickle once they’ve moved on and you’re left with… well… nothing.
Thankfully it’s never nothing in this part of the world as there is always a resident population of predators and general game, but given that the main reason so many people visit this part of the world is to witness the migration, it makes good sense to migrate with it.

A number of mobile camps base themselves in the southern Serengeti during the calving season and then shift to the northern Serengeti as the herds are approaching the Mara River and the crossings are in full swing. By moving operations, camps make sure they enjoy the best of both seasons, taking roughly a month to breakdown camps and move to the new locations whilst the herds are on the move.

A camp that can be fully broken down and set up again a few hundred kilometres away in only a few short weeks needs to be minimalistic by necessity, so we are not dealing with full-luxury affairs here. Rather, wonderfully comfortable canvas tents are there to cater for your needs exactly, without any unnecessary extravagance.

The approach for most safaris centred round the migration is that of a full-day affair, with breakfast and lunch eaten out in the bush while waiting for a river crossing or a calving event, so you are spending a minimal amount of time at camp anyway.

The reality though is that when you return, you have a wonderful sense of still very much being a part of the bush. Hearing a zebra chomping on grass only a few meters away through the thin canvas of your tent at night can be just as thrilling as watching a stalking pride of lions closing in on an unsuspecting buffalo!

Don’t expect ultimate bush opulence at a mobile camp. Hair dryers in the rooms and lightning fast wifi are so far from the reason you are there in the first place as to seem sacrilegious.
Instead you are treated to the rawest African experience. Paraffin lanterns and owls hooting overhead, lions roaring not far away as you zip up your tent flaps after dinner… the bleating of the wildebeest herds as they sometimes envelop camps completely.
And ultimately, the feeling that you are right where you should be.

Mobile camps are among the most authentic ways to experience the great migration.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about Entara Esirai, &Beyond’s Serengeti Under Canvas, or a number of others that we hold in very high regard…

Wilderness Qorokwe: Delta Action

Posted on by James

Qorokwe camp is in the south-east of the Okavango Delta and has only been open for 7 years. The exclusive concession it’s on was previously unused for more than four years, but now reveals a world of diverse Delta habitats, from scattered acacia woodlands with herds of giraffe, zebra and abundant plains game to pristine floodplains, home to numerous red lechwe and mud-bespattered buffalo bulls. Throw in lions, relaxed leopards and a wild dog pack that currently numbers in the 30s, and you have a recipe for amazing game-viewing.

Qorokwe means ‘The place where the buffalo broke through the bush into the water’. A suitable name for a lodge located between two permanent rivers which are visited by buffalo; they love the shallow river channels. And where there are buffalo there are inevitably lion, buffalo being their favourite meal!

Qorokwe Camp consists of eight tented suites and one spacious family tented suite with its own splash pool and large deck. En suite facilities feature a shower with a glass door which slides back to transform it from an indoor to an outdoor shower, double basins and a free standing bath.

The stunning main area at Qorokwe Camp overlooks a productive lagoon which fluctuates in level depending on the season,  and the dining area, lounge, library and bar are built on raised wooden platforms connected by walkways. The camp marries minimalist clean lines and a stylish look aesthetic with its openness really making one feel a connection with the natural world. The rooms and main areas are stylishly modern: flat roofed with wood panels, wrought iron and geometric shapes and large sliding doors that welcome in and frame the magnificent wilderness of the Delta. The scurry of tree squirrels in the branches overhead and the scratching of spurfowl beneath your deck are an ever-present reminder that you are in the wilderness. Peaceful rectangular water features edge the lounge area and frame the view onto the lagoon. The generously sized infinity pool just off the main deck is set slightly lower and adjacent to the firepit.

Qorokwe is in the southern reaches of the Okavango and the landscape really is diverse: game drives will take in Kalahari apple-leaf and acacia woodlands, islands with palm trees, floodplains and seasonal water. The variety of the landscape and the proximity to the Moremi Game Reserve means that the wildlife is excellent and the area is particularly rich in predator sightings. The Qorokwe concession is a private concession shared only with Stanley’s camp, Baines camp and Gomoti Plains camp. However the huge area on which game drives are operating means that the vehicle density is low and it’s very unlikely that you will see a game viewer from any other camp.

Guests will enjoy game drives on open 4×4s to view the wealth of wildlife by day. Night drives produce exciting nocturnal sightings of civet, genet, bat-eared foxes and bushbabies, and owls are regularly seen in the spotlight. Following a leopard as it gets hunting into the evening can be particularly rewarding. Explore the waters by boat or mokoro (water-level dependent) – your guide will reveal the secrets of living in the Delta while you look out for tiny frogs and malachite kingfishers.

Being a relatively new camp and with slightly higher profile options being available in the Wilderness Portfolio, Qorokwe has avoided the limelight until now. But with an incredibly consistent amount of glowing feedback emanating from guests of the camp – particularly relating to the wildlife, Qorokwe is rapidly making a name for itself as a premier game viewing destination.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out rates and availability…

Beach after Bush

Posted on by James

An authentic African safari is one of the most thrilling experiences you can ever have.

Those whom the bug has bitten find themselves returning time and time again to revisit that sense of excitement, the tranquility of an Okavango sunrise, the thrill of a lion stalk or the sheer rawness of nature as ten thousand wildebeest come pouring over the Mara River in their desperate need to reach the other shore.
Safari can also simply be about getting in touch with yourself and family once more. No receiving message on drive, no police sirens in the distance, just you and the peace of the bush; birdsong, the soft trilling of cicadas and the whisper of the wind in the golden grass.

Yet in order to take full advantage of the environment and prime viewing conditions, early wake-ups are the norm, with a pre-dawn coffee on deck the order of the day as you wipe the sleep from your eyes and prepare to head out into the gloom, just before the sun peeks over the horizon.
A good few days of these early mornings, combined with some late nights around the fire and some excellent bottles of South Africa’s finest red wine, and you may well find yourself needing a holiday after your holiday. And that is where the beach comes in.

There are literally thousands of kilometres of pristine coastline from Cape Town up to Kenya, with golden sands, whales breaching, turtles laying eggs, and often miles and miles of emptiness stretching before you, with only the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean lapping against your feet.

If its genuine relaxation you are after on your holiday, look no further. The resorts and beach lodges we love will have you wanting for nothing. Pina coladas on call, boat excursions to remote sand bars, and snorkelling in the clearest water imaginable as the warm sun gently tans you.
An Indian Ocean getaway is – at least for us – the perfect ay to wind down after a safari. You won’t have anyone waking you up before it’s light, you make your own schedule, and you can be as indulgent as you like.

Our Top 3 choices for beach destinations would be:

Plettenberg Bay

It’s a no-brainer for us, with “Plett’” as South Africans call it, just having been nominated for World’s Leading Beach Destination.
The shores of this wonderful seaside town can get quite busy during the Christmas period when a lot of SA residents move into their summer homes, but for 90% of the year it is a wonderfully quiet town, with so much to do within such a short distance.
Explore the Robberg Peninsula or go hiking in the Knysna Forest. Take a canoe up the Keurbooms River in search of Knysna Turacos (even leopards have been sighted here) or look for pansy shells on some of the more remote beaches in the area.

Plett has it all, and with a convenient airport nearby (a major one at George or a local one practically in town), access is very easy.

Vilanculos & Surrounds

A short flight from Johannesburg will have you on the beach in Mozambique’s Vilanculos sipping a strawberry daquiri before lunchtime.
Flying in over the extensive sandbars, gazing down through the azure waters, is a landing you won’t be forgetting in a hurry.

Vilanculos is essentially the gateway to a multitude of incredible lodges – some on the mainland and some out on the islands – like Sussurro, Azura and Kisawa. All will leave you speechless at their simple charm and opulence, and all will have you immediately wanting to extend your stay.

The lodges around Vilnaculos are as close to paradise as you can find…

Maputaland, South Africa

One of South Africa’s last great stretches of untouched coastline, made up almost entirely of pristine beaches, and home to a vast array of land based and marine wildlife, Maputaland is the far northern section of South Africa, just south of the Mozambican border.

With a wonderful array of destinations like Black Rock Bay, Tonga Beach Lodge and Mabibi to choose from, as well as being in close proximity to wonderful game viewing areas like Phinda and iSiMangaliso Wetland Reserve, Maputaland is a region packed full of exciting options

If you want to tag on a relaxing beach option to your safari, get hold of us through info@iconciafrica.com com, and let’s see what stretch of coastline tickles your fancy the most…

San Camp: Uncovering the Desert

Posted on by James

An almost mirage-like appearance of white tents, rising as an oasis of shade and tranquility on the edge of an endless horizon… This is the reality that is San Camp, an unbelievably romantic, seven-bedroom camp on the edge of the Ntwetwe Pan in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi.

This camp isn’t a place for frills and excess. The minimalistic approach is what creates the magic, both at the camp and in the lunar desert landscape. You can forget the crowds and packed overland vehicles; it’s just you, the wildlife and the empty spaces….

Meerkats abound here, popping their heads up from the desert dust, brown hyaenas secret themselves in the golden grass, and you’ll encounter oryx, red hartebeest and springbok all moving endlessly between them. But San Camp is about far more than the desert wildlife – it’s about the atmosphere and the ethereal surroundings. Here you can truly merge yourself with a forgotten world, a million miles from screens and car alarms, where vistas are so vast you can literally see the curvature of the earth…

The salt pans are home to a host of unique desert animals which make a fascinating contrast to an Okavango safari. For those with the time, visiting this area as part of an Okavango itinerary is highly recommended. Wildlife in the region includes the famous black maned lion and cheetah, and small roaming herds of wildebeest and zebra, elephant and brown hyaena almost exclusive to this area. Kori bustards and northern black korhaan can be ticked off your bird list and your trip would not be complete without an up-close-and-personal interaction with the habituated and well- loved meerkats that have delighted guests from all over the world.

An elegant, solar powered, seven-bedroom camp on the rim of the Ntwetwe Pan, the seasonal San Camp offers a truly remarkable safari experience. White canvas tents complement the stark setting and create an ambience of calm, perfect for a few precious hours of meditation at the specially designed yoga retreat. Think elegant décor and mouth-watering cuisine to delight travellers of all ages.

The main canvas covered central area is light and airy, inviting you into a stylish dining room where delectable meals live up to their excellent reputation. The lounge floor area is accentuated by Eastern Style rugs and dark Mahogany furniture adds to the atmosphere of the camp. Interesting sources of anthropology and archaeology of this specialized desert region are just waiting to be discovered within the cabinets housing historical artefacts and old fossils. Romantic lantern-lit evenings in camp add to memorable moments on your African safari.

The strategically placed luxury tents with views over the pan are slightly reminiscent of times gone by and feature relaxing outdoor day beds. Indoors, the bed linen is crisp and fresh – irresistible at the end of the day’s activities and en- suite bathrooms include all the necessary facilities to make your stay comfortable and relaxed.

The menu of desert activities offered by San Camp is exhilarating and include game drives within theMakgadikgadi Pans National Park and night drives led by spotlight while seeking out specially adapted desert wildlife. Adventurous expeditions to Kubu Island by quadbike can be enjoyed during the dry season and horse-riding safaris add to the magic of exploring this vast wilderness.

From San Camp you are encouraged to venture out and experience the desert through the eyes of the nomadic bushmen. To learn first- hand the culture of the Zu’/Hoasi Bushmen who call this arid landscape home is a truly remarkable experience. The experience here is sensitively done and not contrived, it is one of the best such experiences in Botswana. Informative bush walks with the Zu/’hoasi Bushmen satisfy the most curious of minds as you learn to identify medicinal plants, source food to eat and learn the habits of smaller animals so easily overlooked on game drives.

Stargazing takes on a new meaning as one studies the heavens above from the salt pans.

San Camp and its sister camp Jack’s – only a few kilometres away – are truly in a league of their own when it comes to opening your eyes to the wonders of this arid corner of Africa. Don’t stay too long though, as the magic of the desert gets under your skin, and it will be almost heartbreaking to leave…

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out rates and availability, and the best way to incorporate San Camp into your itinerary…

Game Drive Essentials You Never Considered

Posted on by James

If you are heading on a safari vacation, you are bound to go on a game drive.
It’s the best way to experience Africa’s beauty up close, sometimes way closer than you bargained for. But, as with any other trip, you should properly prepare for your game drive to ensure you have the best time possible.

Here is a list of some essentials to make sure you have with you, some of which you may not have even conisdered:

A Sense of Humour

This is Africa. Things can change. Plans can get derailed. A rain-squall could roll in. You could get a flat tyre. The animals you are searching for might not co-operate or a dung beetle might fly into you as your guide drives you along.
The unexpected almost certainly will occur at some point during your stay, and it’s important to remember that there are many things out in the bush that re beyond anyone’s control. In remote areas where some of the best safari lodges are located, logistics can be a nightmare. Remember that to get that meal on your plate in a fresh, timely manner most likely involved souring some of the ingredients in another country and then putting them on a truck for a 9-10 hour drive or an aeroplane for three hops out to the nearest landing strip.

In order to really properly appreciate the magnificence of your environment and truly soak up the experience, you need to be able to roll with the changes, adapt, recalibrate, and most importantly, laugh! Laugh a lot!

An Enquiring Mind

The African bush will truly open your eyes to the wonders of nature. The intricacies of ecosystems are truly astounding, but it’s important to remember that healthy, fully-functioning wild habitats are not just dependent on the wellbeing of their flagship species like the elephants and lions. The interconnectedness of nature goes all the way down to the smallest inhabitants, and more often than not, it’s the tinies that are actually propping up the whole thing.

So make sure to dive a bit deeper with your guide. Don’t just ask “what?”, ask “why?”. Strive to gain an appreciation for big and small, and how they fit together. Trust us, you will gain far more from safari this way.

Patience

Animals are on their own timetable.
That lion is not just going to leap into action because you have arrived with your big camera. Nor will the leoapr make a run for an impala if it doesn’t think the odds are in its favour. Only when the conditions are right for their needs will animals do what they have to do.
A good guide will understand animal behaviour to the extent that she or he will be able to predict with a fair degree of confidence what an animal is likely to do next, and a rough timeline upon which this might happen (although there are no guarantees), but in order to see the good stuff, you might have to wait a while.
Get the binoculars out and scan around for birds. Appreciate the finer details of the animal. Ask the guide to tell some stories.

Wet Wipes

You didn’t see this one coming, did you?

Some lodges do provide these; believe us, they are a life-saver when it comes to removing dust or the grease of suncream from your hands. Stopping for a sundowner or early morning coffee usually means indulging in a treat of some sort, and your fingers can feel a little… well… grubby afterwards.

But with wet wipes, those troubles disappear. They are also very handy for wiping camera gear or binoculars down from dust…

The standard things to remember to take on drive like cameras, binoculars, sunscreen etc. we won’t bore you with. Those you should remember anyway.

The biggest thing to remember though, is to have fun…

(Not So) Secret Cape Town

Posted on by James

When guests of ours visit Cape Town and talk about their trip after the time, they often refer to how they did the “touristy” things.

Well, we’re here to tell you that the so-called touristy things of Cape Town are just that for very good reason. People don’t visit this breathtaking city to do things they can do anywhere else. No, Cape Town has its specific attractions that make it so special, and it stands to reason that whether making it the centre-point of your stay or simply tailoring onto the beginning or end of your safari, you are going to want to get to the top of Table Mountain, take a drive down the Peninsula, eat at some fine restaurants and indulge yourself in wine country for a couple of days.

Literally millions of people visit South Africa’s Mother City each year, but don’t be fooled by these numbers; there is still plenty of space to do things. Granted, the summer season can see the most popular beaches getting a little crowded, but a good guide will know the places and timings to make sure you have more than enough space to yourself.

The Big Four are essentially Table Mountain, Peninsula Tour (including the Penguins at Boulders Beach), the Winelands and the Waterfront.

Starting with the Waterfront…
It has its perks sure, and there are some amazing hotels all around it, which makes it very convenient for dining at its incredible diversity of restaurants, but the place itself is essentially a large mall. Save your curio shopping for when you are actually on safari, as the artefacts are more likely to be genuine. That’s our main bit of inside intel.
What the Waterfront is best for, we feel, is as a gateway to a whole multitude of Cape Town experiences.


Visting Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), evening boat cruises, helicopter rides around the peninsula… all are launched from the vicinity of the Waterfont, so for those alone, its worth a visit.

Next, Table Mountain.
Try to hike up if you can, and make a full morning of it. The cold beer at the restaurant on top will be even more delicious after the walk. It can be pretty steep, but the paths are good; all you need to do is take it slow. Then take the Cable Car down. You’ll have earned it.

Inclement weather can sometimes close the cable car down and make a hike a poor idea, but this is generally just a winter thing (May – August), although high winds in summer can occasionally do the same.

The winelands should have at least three days assigned to them. And a driver.
The choices of vineyards are almost endless, so you could stay for a month and still only be scratching the surface. Our recommendation would be to stay at one specific location and visit two to three vineyards a day. One for a lunch and an afternoon of wondering around the grounds, and a second for dinner. Most of the bigger wineries have amazing restaurants associated with them. This is the fine-dining heart of South Africa, so take your time once you get there, and truly savour it.

Finally, the full peninsular tour itself. You’ll want to allow for at least half a day for this, if not more. There are so many quaint stop-offs and secret corners and coves to explore. Have a breakfast in Muizenburg before making your way down to the penguins at Boulders Beach. From there its a short drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, which is a must-see; only 45 minutes from the city centre yet you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.


From there head back north on the western side of the peninsula. TAke the time to watch the surfers down at Long Beach and marvel at the engineering feat that is Chapman’s Peak. Maybe enjoy a fish and chips in Hout Bay near the Harbour, before heading over Suikerbossie for the wonderfully picturesque home stretch towards town, past Camps Bay and the upmarket ocean-side suburbs.

We could wax lyrical about the majesty of Cape Town, but we’ll never be able to do it justice. Just remember that “touristy” in the context of the city does not mean gimmicky. It simply means the things everyone wants to experience because theya re so spectacular.

If you are heading all the way to Southern Africa for safari, it’d be a shame not to add on a Cape Town leg…

trust us…

Wilderness Mokete: Africa’s Wildest Wildlife Experience?

Posted on by James

The Mababe Depression to the east of the Okavango Delta was long-considered a no-go for photographic tourism, mainly because the Okavango itself and the Chobe and Moremi Reserves next door were so unbelievably productive.
Yet a few intrepid souls who had ventured into the Mopane woodlands of the Mababe area were keeping a secret; a secret about place so spectacular in its wildlife numbers and action that BB and Netflix wildlife cinematographers have referred to it as the rawest wildlife experience they have had in Africa.

And now that the new Wilderness Mokete luxury tented camp has opened there, you yourself can experience an unparalleled safari experience in Botswana. Spanning over 50,000 hectares of private concession land, the Wilderness area in Mababe teems with game, and is a haven for serious safari enthusiasts seeking once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Africa’s wild.

“Mababe is a prime wildlife destination in Botswana, offering uncharted territory that remains a sanctuary of natural splendour. We are extremely proud to be launching this pioneering new camp that is solely accessible through Wilderness. Designed by reMORPHED Arch & Design architects, and with interiors by Michele Throssell Interiors, it represents a captivating fusion of architectural innovation and environmental respect. In keeping with our ethos, the considered approach is truly immersive and intentionally minimalist, ensuring the lightest possible footprint”, noted Joe Matome, Wilderness Botswana Caretaker Managing Director.

Mokete features nine en-suite canvas tents and a communal tented lounge area, linked by wooden walkways at ground level. Luxurious interiors and modern amenities, including inverter air conditioning systems and Wi-Fi in all bedrooms, complete the experience and ensure guests want for nothing during their stay.

One of the standout features of Mokete’s tented suites is the retractable roof in the bedrooms, allowing guests to stargaze at night. Imagine drifting off to sleep with the splendour of the Milky Way above you and the resident lion coalition serenading you with their roars nearby

Mababe is an area of tremendous ecological significance, made up of three key habitats: grassland, wetlands and mopane woodland. The major feature is a marsh which fills in the summer season, creating a wetland of some 2,600 hectares, serving as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife in search of water, and vital habitat for numerous bird species. Herds of buffalo in the thousands – the largest gathering in Africa, with herds sometimes in circumference of 8km –  alongside abundant predators and massive elephant herds occasionally accompanied by migrating zebras, all converge on the Mababe Marsh. Aptly named “Mokete” (meaning “feast”), the camp embodies an abundance of wildlife, varied landscapes and pristine natural beauty. Mokete guests will encounter truly remarkable vistas, more so than any other wilderness areas in northern Botswana.

Forget conventional safari times. Mokete will pack you a bush lunch to enjoy with zebras and elephants, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action. In camp, sip on a sundowner overlooking the uninterrupted grassland, the curvature of the Earth discernible on the distant horizon. Or sit suspended under the stars for an alfresco dining experience, reminiscing over the marsh owls you spotted earlier.

Lions are seen throughout the day, while a high density of hyenas constantly compete with other predators: cheetah, wild dog, bat-eared fox, jackal, African wild cat and serval. The mopane belt to the east of the great plains is home to leopard and numerous woodland species, while the edges of the marsh have prolific bird life. It’s a thrilling, non-stop show, and a photographer’s dream.

Forget fine dining, Egyptian cotton and wifi speeds. Forget everything you know about what spectacular wildlife means. Mokete is the new “it”.

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more…

Entara: Tanzania Like You’ve Never Seen it Before

Posted on by James

We’ll be going a little deeper into each offering in the Entara portfolio – one of our new favourites – in the coming months, but for now we’ll simply present a brief overview of what to expect from one of Tanzania’s most underrated safari offerings.
In terms of exceeding expectations, Entara does it in spades…

The group was formed by a group of like-minded souls that found a common ground.

Artists and safari guides, hoteliers, chefs and entrepreneurs – an eclectic tribe bound together by bonds of deep passion and commitment to Africa’s wilderness and its people. They learned through years of hands-on safari operation that the safari experience means nothing without that unbridled and raw connection to wildlife and wilderness. The soul of the safari experience can’t be conveyed through fancy décor and glass sealed rooms. It lives through a sense of adventure and a rekindled sense of wonder, through shared experiences and new friendships. The whole team endeavours to convey this sense of wonder, passion and deep connection to wilderness and wildlife.

Their five intimate lodges and camps are settled within the natural wonders of each region without sacrificing comfort and service.

The elegant Katambuga House with lush gardens and a pool in Arusha is an oasis of tropical tranquility and a destination in its own right.

Not every flight into or out of Tanzania is at a convenient time to connect to the safari landscape; sometimes an overnight just to get your feet on the ground or decompress before heading home is necessary, and Katmbuga House, only a few minutes drive from Arusha airport, fills this role wonderfully. Simple and intimate, it is the perfect jump-off point for safari, only a few hours drive from Ngorongoro, Tarangire National Park and some of the Rift Valley Lakes…

Olmara Camp, home of the cheetah and a wildlife photography dream location, is in the remote Ngare Nayuki River Valley and provides a base of luxury tented suites that merge seamlessly into the environment of acacia groves, grasslands and rocky outcrops.

Some of the best big cat viewing to be found in the world is right here, as the short-grass plains provide perfect hunting conditions, and rocky outcrops are a photographers dream, providing wonderful vantage points for predators to perch atop of.
Being a more remote concession, this camp affords guests an exclusivity to sightings that is hard to come by anywhere else in the Serengeti.

Kisima Ngeda Camp, nestled in a fever tree forest with its palm-thatched tents, offers a further wilderness adventure through the overnight Ombako Private Fly Camp that is set up on the eastern shore of Lake Eyasi for a night under the stars.

This camp provides a remarkable opportunity for a cultural deep-dive, as from the fly camp one can join local tribesmen on a traditional hunting expedition. The Hadza are one of the only tribes on earth that still pursue a hunter/gatherer lifestyle, and Kisima Ngeda offers guests a rare window into their world.

The Esirai Camp is luxuriously light and moves alongside the grazing Wildebeest as they make their epic 600km crossing of the vast Serengeti plains, offering an unrivalled African safari adventure.

The camp shifts between northern and southern locations depending on the season, with the southern camp allowing guests access to the wildebeest calving towards the Ndut Plains area, and the northern camp presenting the opportunity to see one of the famed crossings of the Mara River.

Finally, Olkeri Camp is home to great Elephant herds, and replete with views of woodlands, rocky hills, and shaded by gnarled old-growth Baobab and Acacia, offering the ultimate freedom to explore day and night.

This elegantly simple camp is set in the Randalin Wildlife Conservancy, contiguous with the Tarangire National Park. Predators abound here and the birdlife is sensational. Enjoy bush-walks from the camp or an evening sipping cockktails under one of the hundreds of  baoba trees that dot the landscape.

The protection of African wildlife and their habitat is at the core of Entara Lodge’s ethos and operations. The camps and lodges are to be found in some of the most bio-diverse areas on the African continent and Entara recognises the importance and sensitivity that goes with this custodianship within the regions.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about Entara and the diversity of experiences they offer…

Azura Benguerra: White Sand Paradise

Posted on by James

The exceptional Azura resort rests on the idyllic shoreline of Benguerra Island. Built entirely by hand by the local community, Azura offers 18 splendid villas set amidst indigenous gardens only steps away from the beach. Each villa features a beautiful ensuite bathroom with an alfresco shower, a dressing area, a huge comfy bed, a private plunge pool, a beachside sala, a sundeck and day beds.

Guests are assigned a dedicated Mozambican host, who will attend to their every need for the duration of their stay. Dining is a delectable affair, with a superb seafood menu. Meals can be savoured in the restaurant, on the beach or at a picnic in a romantic and secluded spot. Azura houses a decadent and luxurious spa, as well as a water sports centre that offers adventures such as scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, big game fishing and kayaking. Island drives and cultural excursions can also be arranged.

Compact villas offer the perfect balance of stylish comfort and elegant simplicity. Comfortable indoor lounge and living spaces flow into an outdoor seating and dining area with secluded beachside frontage.

Submerge into your private plunge pool that mirrors the colours of the ocean, or enjoy some R&R on the large, undercover deck with a daybed. All beach villas have a separate sundeck, as well as a private beach sala for seaside relaxation.

Hop aboard a traditional dhow, a wooden vessel with a triangular sail, used for fishing by the island’s locals. A welcoming local skipper will collect you from your casita or cabana in the late afternoon, embarking on an unforgettable cruise around the azure bay. The sailing adventure presents the Island and its surrounding waters in a unique light and thus offers excellent photographic opportunities of the wide horizon, the calm waters and the glowing horizon.

Watch the sun set over the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago as you drift along the calm water, guided by ocean breezes. Witness the cerulean sky rapidly change colour, embracing hues of rose and violet spread over an amber canvas. Marvel at the illuminated water, dancing with gold shimmers, as it welcomes the sun’s descent beneath the distant horizon. The scene plays out beautifully and the ocean swallows the golden orb into its infinite depths. Travel back to the shore, accompanied by the quiet swoosh of the dhow’s sail, lost in the kaleidoscope of an African sunset.

Feel as though you have the island all to yourself as you indulge in a decadent picnic set in one of the most secluded sites on the Bazaruto Archipelago. Revel in magnificent sea views from the sand spit that daringly juts out into the ocean and lounge on the peak of soaring sand dunes, romantically set up for an idyllic picnic. Delight in fare that is sure to tantalise your taste buds with a vast assortment of hors d’oeuvres, appetisers and local delicacies.

Choose from South Point Bazaruto or North Point Benguerra, gently evoking feelings of being a castaway on a dreamy deserted island. Kick up your heels and lounge on satiny sands with 360 degree views of the ocean vista and the frolicking dolphins below. Relish a languid afternoon picnic in exquisite natural surroundings. South Point Bazaruto is an ideal spot to relax after thrilling dives or on a meandering sunset cruise. The North Point Benguerra Castaway Picnic will have you reclining on a sandy spit with unparalleled views of a wild, frothing ocean with short waves on one side and a calm bay with mirror-like waters on the other. Explore the clean coastline over miles, treasure hunt for rippled seashells, encounter the almost translucent ghost crab and marvel at the ebony and candy floss coloured wings of the elegant flamingo. Soak in the temperate, aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean, brilliantly illuminated by the warmth of the African sun.

Snorkelling at Two-Mile Reef will suit every guest, regardless of age and expertise. The boat ride out to the reef can be bumpy as the outgoing and incoming tides converge in the channel between Bazaruto and Benguerra Island. Two-Mile Reef is a flat-topped barrier reef renowned for its brilliant snorkelling. Highlights include a variety of hard and soft corals and many schools of reef and pelagic fish passing through. On the boat trip you may be lucky enough to spot playful dolphins and the elusive, endangered dugong.  Under the water you may encounter harmless reef sharks and slumberous turtles that effortlessly glide past with their wise eyes. Embrace the unspoilt beauty of the reef and the kaleidoscopic colours of the tropical fish that move in droves along the exposed coral. Two-Mile Reef is faultless in its beauty, guaranteeing an unforgettable outing, and is ideal for those who want to confidently explore the Indian Ocean’s shallower coral reefs. Your snorkelling excursion goes out at low tide, so is determined by the timing of the sea.

Azura Benguerra is truly the perfect way to wind down at the end of your African sojourn.

Safaris are incredible, but a few days of the early wake-ups for morning drives and some late evenings around the fire sipping delicious red wine can leave one in need of some proper down time, and that’s where the tropical paradise of the Mozambican islands comes in…

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out about rates and availability at Azura Benguerra or others like it…

Anabezi Camp: Lower Zambezi Delights

Posted on by James

Explore pristine and untouched wilderness in one of Africa’s most remote safari destinations. Anabezi sits on the banks of the Zambezi River in a secluded corner in the eastern area of Lower Zambezi National Park. Far from the majority of other camps,  Anabezi is surrounded by the iconic Winterthorn forest, renowned by safari experts, professional photographers, and documentary film crews.

The camp is built on an elevated boardwalk which connects each luxury tented suite to two main areas with their own respective swimming pools. The elevated boardwalk allows for wildlife to roam freely throughout camp while minimising effects on the ecosystem. It also means guests can walk around safely during the day without an escort. Elephants, buffalo, antelope – and even the occasional lion or leopard – often pass through camp, allowing you to experience wildlife from the comfort of your room. These communal areas evoke a classic African style with a modern touch, providing guests the opportunity to experience Lower Zambezi and its wilderness while relaxing at camp.  As the sun sets and nightlife of the bush comes to life, guests are invited to sit by the campfire with a sundowner and share stories of their sightings with fellow visitors.

Modern comfort and authentic African luxury come together at Anabezi in one of Africa’s finest game viewing destinations. Renew your love affair with nature in one of their twelves tented suites, complete with either king or twin beds, overlooking the Zambezi River, Zambezi Floodplain or Kulefu Channel. Each tent features an indoor en suite bathroom with Victorian style soaking bathtub, and an outdoor bathroom complete with outdoor shower.

As its namesake implies, the Zambezi Deck provides sweeping views of the Zambezi River and the floodplain, with daily visits from elephants, buffalo, impala, waterbuck, warthogs and a variety of birds. Watch the wildlife from the swimming pool while you’re having lunch, or from one of the many lounging areas, and take in the surrounding landscape. It’s not uncommon to get up close views of elephants drinking, bathing and crossing the Zambezi River to one of its many islands.

Large populations of elephants and buffalo roam the forest and the banks of the Zambezi along with Anabezi’s resident pride of lions. The local pack of African Wild Dogs moves up and down the length of the park, with Chakwenga (the section in which Anabezi is found) being one of their favourite hunting grounds. When they are in the area, this pack provides truly exceptional sightings!

Cruising down the Zambezi river allows you to experience Lower Zambezi from a different perspective. At eye level with the rich aquatic ecosystem, watch elephants bath and swim from island to island, G&T in hand, while the sun sets behind the escarpment. You’ll also spot buffalo, crocodiles, hippos, and antelope perched on the river bank floating in Anabezi’s custom-fitted pontoon boats. For those in pursuit of the legendary African tigerfish, the Zambezi River rarely disappoints (although the productive fishing times are seasonal).
Experienced fishermen and novices alike will enjoy heading out on an afternoon fishing trip with one of the camps seasoned guides, full of expert advice and an unparalleled knowledge of this stretch of the river. While Anabezi provide all the necessary rods and tackle for spinner and lure fishing, anglers who specialize in Fly should bring their own equipment.

Anabezi’s location on the east side of the park near the heart of the winterthorn forest makes for epic sightings with few other vehicles. They are able to modify our game viewers for photographers and provide custom beanbags if needed. Should you require a private vehicle or vehicle modification for a photographic safari, Iconic Africa can easily get in touch with the camp to set it up.

Get hold of us through info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your Lower Zambezi safari; an area that is quickly becoming a must-visit on the Southern Africa safari circuit…

 

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge: Quietening the Soul

Posted on by James

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is set in a veritable ocean of tranquility; a vast 12,715 hectare (31,419 acre) expanse deep in the Namib , the world’s oldest living desert.

Tucked discreetly against a rocky outcrop amidst a seemingly endless sea of red dunes and gravel plains, the utter tranquility and extraordinary clarity of light makes this area one of Africa’s most compelling landscapes. The night skies are heavenly, with the concession bordering the International Dark Sky Reserve (recently declared one of the two quietest places on earth) of the Namib Rand Nature Reserve. A canvas of beauty that invites reconnection with yourself and nature.

Sustainability and uncompromised luxury go hand in hand at Sossusvlei; 10 beautifully appointed stone and glass suites, spread out along the curve of the escarpment, open onto ever-changing outlooks. Each spacious air conditioned suite offers a secluded, shaded veranda complete with private plunge pool, a living room with a fireplace, a large retractable skylight above the bed, and an ensuite bathroom with a glass-encased rain shower offering 180º desert views. The two-bedroomed Star Dune Suite is an ideal option for families or groups of friends.

The split-level guest area is an inspired masterpiece of glass, rock and steel. Large glass panels fold away to reveal unobstructed desert vistas. Inviting amenities include a central-island bar, comfortable sitting room, walk-in cellar, interactive kitchen and rim-flow pool. Other signature features include numerous shaded, private spaces; a sunrise-view gym and sunset-facing wellness centre which offers both a treatment room with a private spa-bath, and a separate wet-room spa. The lodge’s Signature Shop showcases Namibia’s finest craft offerings.

Immerse yourself in the ultimate safe travel bubble as you enjoy an array of private experiences, delectable dining, myriad adventures and spectacular accommodation. Among these vast ancient vistas, a thousand tiny miracles play out each day, as fascinating desert animals and plants make dozens of unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in this arid environment. Natural beauty on a grand scale stretches beneath impossibly blue African skies. Stripped down to barest simplicity, the desert playground of Sossusvlei is the ideal place to reawaken your soul.

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out about rates and availability, and to explore more about a potential Namibian itinerary…

 

Sabi Sabi Fly-In: Ultimate Big 5 Convenience

Posted on by James

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, situated in the Sabie Game Reserve in the South-Western section of the Greater Kruger National Park, is a wildlife oasis where you can observe at close quarters the age-old natural relationship between predator and prey.

The accommodation at Sabi Sabi is quite simply stunning. Four completely different lodges dotted about the reserve provide accommodation types for everyone’s taste. Earth Lodge is completely modern; cutting edge architecture merges it with the landscape in an almost subterranean design. It is a breathtakingly original approach to safari lodge design, but those who prefer a throwback to the early days of safari may prefer the other three offerings of Bush Lodge, Little Bush Lodge or Selati Lodge.

Safari at a destination like Sabi Sabi will always go far beyond your expectations. Whilst all visitors arrive in the anticipation of stunning wildlife encounters, delicious meals in a beautiful setting and a comfortable night’s sleep, it is the in-between experiences that ultimately end up as the most trip-defining and memorable.

The shot of Amarula with your coffee, sipped on whilst overlooking an elephant herd at a waterhole. The hyena which comes slinking past while you enjoy a drinks stop under the African stars, or the choir in full foot-stomping harmony around the fire, inviting you to come and dance with them.

These are the moments that settle into your soul, and will stay with you long after safari is over. They are far more than any brochure or website could ever fully capture, and have to be lived to be understood…

Whilst Sabi Sabi is among the best South Africa can offer in terms of safari options, it is the special they are currently offering in conjunction with Federal Air (the local safari carrier) that is really making them a no-brainer for safari vistors, especially those coming in from overseas and looking to have safari as their first stop.

16 hours in the air coupled with hours spent waiting at the airport before you even take off is often met with sighs of despair. When jetlagged, hungry and probably in need of a shower, the last thing you want is to wait even longer before you arrive at your destination.
Jumping on a Federal Air Flight from OR Tambo International (South Africa’s main airport hub) can see you on the ground in the South African bush in less than an hour.
A few minutes road transfer from the international terminal to the private FedAir Lounge sees you waiting in comfort for your Sabi Sabi connection. Then it’s onto the ‘plane, 50 minutes flight, quite possibly some elephants from the air as you come in to land, and straight into your Game Viewer for the short safari drive to the lodge, with the very high probability of encountering wildlife on the way.

Three packages are on offer:

  • Return flights from Johannesburg to Sabi Sabi and a three-night stay
  • One-way flights either to SS from Johannesburg or the other way round, with a three night stay.
  • Flights to Sabi Sabi from Johannesburg and then out of Sabi Sabi to Nelspruit (a great jump-off point for a Mozambique beach adventure) or the other way around (Nelspruit – SS – JHB). This also includes three nights on Safari.

Rates vary depending on which Sabi Sabi Lodge you elect to stay at, so get hold of us through info@iconicafrica.com to enquire about availability and the costs of the respective lodges.

This fly-in rate is on offer until February 2025.

Special Offer at No.1 African Safari Lodge

Posted on by James

The More Family Collection has long been associated with outstanding safari experiences.

Their lodges, boutique hotels and private residences are found in Southern Africa’s best leisure destinations, and combine to offer you the classic Southern African experience, with the More Family Collection’s signature ‘golden thread’ running through them.

Monwana Game Lodge in Thornybush Nature Reserve embodies the spirit of homecoming, and encourages a deep connection to nature, and is now on special at the amazing price of R10 500 pppn sharing! An offer like this doesn’t come around every day…

Monwana was recently voted the No.1 Safari Lodge in Africa by the Travel & Leisure Reader’s Survey, an accolade we heartily endorse!

Thornybush is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, and is unfenced from the 20 000 square kilometre wilderness.
The 14 000ha although concession upon which the lodge is found is literally teeming with wildlife. Elephants parade past the lodge’s waterhole, leopards rasp from the riverbed at night, and from the deck of your suite or the comfort of the main lodge area, you can watch the best of Africa passing by throughout the day.

Four spacious suites accommodate two guests each, and all offer beautiful views from their private shaded decks. Birdwatch from the comfort of a lounger whilst the sun is high, or cool off in your plunge pool (which is heated to beat the coldest months of winter).
Underfloor heating within the rooms themselves and heated towel rails take the edge of the crispness of winter, and the high quality of linen, dressing gowns and towels will leave you feeling exquisitely pampered.

In addition to the four suites, two family suites which can accommodate up to five guests are available. These are ideal for families with older children (reserve policy stipulates a minimum age of ten), as the secondary bedroom features twin beds, and an extra one can easily be added.

The Private safari vehicle that comes with each family suite ensures that your bush adventures flow with your own rhythm. Come back later if needs be or head out earlier in the afternoon to maximise your bush time…
It’ll just be you on board, so spend as long as you want admiring all of nature’s aspects, without the pressure of fitting in with the needs of others.

In an industry already flush with exceptional safari experiences, Monwana is truly special. You will instantly feel at home there, and there are few places that will have you getting that in touch with nature that quickly.

Email us on info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about this wonderful destination on special, and let’s start planning YOUR safari…

 

Marataba Special Still Running

Posted on by James

Marakele means “place of sanctuary” in the local Setswana language, and that is exactly what you feel like you are entering when you arrive at Marataba Private Reserve, which forms part of the greater Marakele National Park.

Marataba itself is 21 000ha of mixed thornveld and open woodland, flanked to the east and south by the utterly spectacular Waterberg mountains, which gather every last drop of golden light as the sun starts to sink and reflect it back over an environment brimming with wildlife.

Lion roars reverberate up the valleys from the plains below, whilst from the rocky crags the guttural rasp of a leopard is regularly heard through the hours of darkness. It is in this magnificent setting that the stunning Marataba Mountain Lodge part of the NJ More collection.

Not only is Mountain Lodge one of our favourite South African safari destinations, but it is currently on special at the unbelievable rate of R4995 pppn sharing. This offer is open until the end of September 2024, so do NOT wait to enquire…

Mountain lodge, tucked away in a rocky valley close to the escarpment features only 5 eco-suites. Mountain Lodge is completely solar, so as well as feeling a wonderful sense of isolation in such an intimate setting, guests can be happy in the knowledge that their stay is having the least possible impact on the environment.

For honeymooners and those who want ultimate tranquility and time to themselves, wishing to feel a complete sense of isolation, Mountain lodge should be your pick.

At no time at either camp will you feel anything but fully immersed in the wilderness. The subtle colour tones and layout of every aspect of both lodges has been carefully thought out, designed to feel like a simple extension of the African bush whilst retaining every element of luxury.

Marataba is only a few hours drive from Johannesburg, or easily accessible via a 45 minute charter flight. The area is malaria-free, so if you are travelling with small kids or have even the slightest concerns about malaria (which is extremely rare in South Africa), look no further than Marataba as your destination of choice.

Enquire now if you want to be able to visit Mountain Lodge at an absolute steal. Be sure not to miss out…

Mail us at info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s get the safari ball rolling…

Multi-Generational Safaris

Posted on by James

Multigenerational holidays offer kids, parents, and grandparents a great way to reconnect over shared experiences and make new memories at the same time. A safari offers families the perfect opportunity to come together and strengthen family bonds in amazing places offering a wide variety of activities and ample wildlife.

Let’stake a closer look at multigenerational safaris and discover why they’re the perfect choice for a meaningful family vacation.

A multigenerational safari typically involves multiple generations of a family (kids, parents, and grandparents) traveling together to experience Africa’s wildlife and natural environments. This kind of safari caters to diverse age groups and interests, ensuring activities and accommodations that are suitable for everyone.

In many cases, a multigenerational safari will include exclusive-use villas or lodges, so the experience feels like a home away from home and a family reunion in one.

Read here about a few of the exclusive-use options Iconic Africa recommends…

Multigenerational safaris are excellent for milestone occasions like birthdays and significant family celebrations. Spending quality time together in pristine environments and sharing unique safari experiences like game drives, bush walks, and wildlife spotting helps make memories that will last a lifetime.

Most of the high-end safari lodges offer special kids’ programs to keep the little ones entertained while the adults reconnect and unwind at the spa, bar, or on a private game drive.

Thanks to its varied landscapes and environments, Africa offers travelers a wide variety of multigenerational safari holidays. A Big 5 safari through the unrivalled Sabi Sands game reserve will have all family members enthralled by the wildlife on display, whilst a boat trip in the Okavango is a veritable delight of waterways, birdlife and palm trees.

If you want to include a little diversity in your trip, you might opt to escape to Mozambique, on the east coast of Southern Africa, for some tropical beach relaxation. The possibilities are as endless as the continent is large…

Back to the topic of exclusive-use villas and camps; accommodations here are fully equipped with everything you’ll need to relax in comfort and are situated in stunning locations where you and your family will be the only guests. Game sightings will be uncrowded while your dedicated guide and ranger lead you through the wonders of the African bush. Menus are tailor-made for your group, and completely customisable depending on dietary requirements.

Children allow one to view the beauty of safari through a completely different and refreshing lens. Whether it be marvelling at how a line of ants march a cross a camp path, or unpacking the magic of bird colouration, kids help us reconnect with the childlike wonder that is innate in all of us. We revert back to our 8-year-old selves and are suddenly fascinated by every smell, every nuanced look by an impala, every

Luxury lodges are so comfortable that the grandparents need not feel worried about venturing into the African bush either. Camps are specifically designed for ease of access, and those less-mobile among us are invariably placed in the rooms closer to the main areas. Game Drives are slow and measured and conducted in vehicles with superb suspension, so anyone concerned about sore backs or achy joints need not worry.

The new norm in safari is multigenerational travel. Unwind and disconnect with your family, and you’ll never feel closer to them.

Get in touch now through info@iconicafrica.com and let’s start planning YOUR family safari…