Just in case you are missing the land where sunsets turn the sky pink, where impalas roam free, where hyenas call at night and where G and T’s taste their finest. Let us bring Africa to you.
Breath-taking wildlife photographs, exciting video footage, Africa’s most beautiful destinations and exciting adventures captured right here… in this Month on Instagram. #Africa #bigfive #luxury #safari
Do you have an adventurous streak within you? Do you love getting up close and personal to wildlife? Do you love being at one with nature? Well then a real African walking safari is an absolute must for your bucket list!
There is no better way to get up-close-and-personal with the African bush, and its wildlife, than to go on a walking safari. It is, without a doubt, the best way to fully experience and appreciate the magical intricacies that make up a regular day out in the bush.
Even if you’ve had many safari experiences in the past, this iconic adventure will, no doubt, knock your socks off.
You walk in silence, you are at one with nature’s rhythm, and you are completely at peace with the world. The landscape is exquisite and ever-changing. From the Marula trees to the Jackal berries, from the Syringas to the Leadwood trees, from the dry riverbeds to the grassy plains, and to the rocky granite outcrops, there is so much to take in!
The expert guides will lead you every step of the way and ensure that your safety always comes first. Their love for the bush, and their incredible anecdotes about the animals and how and why they do what they do, makes the experience truly authentic and valuable. They will teach you how to judge how big an elephant is from its prints, how to tell how fast a lion is walking, and how to tell the difference between the red-billed and yellow-billed hornbill’s calls—you will learn so much! It’s most definitely the best way to learn about the bush. It certainly makes you wonder why we spend our days, months, and years learning about accounting, marketing, and law, instead of taking the time to stop and just simply appreciate, and fully understand, the world around us. There is just so much that nature can teach us… we just need to let it.
A walking safari is such an adventure and it really is one way to get to know your friends and family better, too.
You wake to the sounds of birds chirping, lions calling to each other, hyenas reporting on the night’s events, and fish eagles crying, and yet it all seems so still and peaceful. Sitting in the middle of the bush with a hot cup of coffee and a rusk, you wait in quiet anticipation for the sun to peek over the canopy of Mopanis or to rise up above the river. It really is a spiritual experience like no other.
For the birders among us, a walking safari is a must! There are so many birds of prey to be seen: from bateleurs, to fish eagles, to African hawk eagles. You’ll spot hornbills, barbets, rollers, sunbirds, bee-eaters, kingfishers, vultures, and many more. A walking safari allows you to get much better sightings than you would from a vehicle.
Your heartbeat will slow down to the pace of the African bush, you will go to bed and rise with the sun, and you will feel as though you are a part of something so much bigger—a world that exists out there every day, and that we miss as we race around obliviously, caught up in our corporate lives.
If you have any questions at all on the possible walking safaris on offer, please contact us. We can design the perfect combination of luxury and adventure just for you, and all in a heartbeat.
We are often asked how much safaris cost. This is because it is extremely hard to find prices for safaris online, and because there is an incredibly vast range of safari tours available—each type of safari tour obviously has its own associated costs, depending on the travel agent that you use.
Iconic Africa showcases the African destinations which best represent our values of the utmost luxury, world-beating African hospitality, delectable contemporary cuisine and most importantly an authentic commitment to wilderness conservation.
We aim to give you the most comprehensive quotations by detailing all of the expenses that you will incur during your safari adventure. We pride ourselves on the fact that our quotations have no hidden costs and no hidden surprises. Here’s what you need to know about safari costs.
Good safaris are expensive, however, you truly get what you pay for. We cater for mid- to high-end, boutique safaris which means our focus is on luxury, excellent service, and unforgettable safari experiences. It is important to remember that Africa is a huge continent. Great distances need to be covered by either cars, airplanes, or both. Therefore travel costs often make up a large portion of your safari expenses.
Because we cater for mid- to high-end safaris, the lodges that we choose are only the best of the best. Guests can expect a large staff complement at all lodges—in fact, the staff-to-guest ratio at most of the lodges that we recommend is a 3:1 ratio. This is to ensure that our clients are treated like absolute royalty. Of course, excellent accommodation and gourmet meals are world-class too. The lodges that we have on offer pride themselves on exclusivity and, of course, fewer visitors means fewer vehicles, which ultimately means a more exceptional and much more intimate wildlife experience for you.
We specialise in tailor-made safaris which ensures that our clients are not limited to pre-set itineraries or specific dates. Our clients can choose their own accommodation and they can indicate which activities they would like to experience on their safari. Our clients tell us what they want the focus to be on (for example, game viewing, birds, cats, relaxation, romance etc.), and we make sure that their expectations are not only met but exceeded. Read more in our Iconic Africa Promise
Our itineraries are perfectly planned out and drafted with each, individual client in mind. They are highly intricate and specific, so you will never be met with nasty shocks or unpleasant surprises. They contain comprehensive information about where, when, and with whom you should meet, and we set up the itineraries in such a way so that they are easy to read and the important information is easy to find. The itineraries also indicate where any costs are not covered by travel agency costs or accommodation costs.
So, what do we include in your quotation? Our quotations include all of your internal flights with specific details about each flight—such as when and where to meet, and who will pick you up to take you to and from the various airports. We also include details about all of your transfers, and all of your vehicles costs will be included. The quotation includes your day tours with specific details, and rental costs for rental cars and accommodation costs are also included in the quote.
For any other queries on costing please do let us know.
Iconic Africa Traveller Giorgio De Luca has just returned home after a wonderful time in the Okavango and Victoria Falls. Giorgio was kind enough to chat to us about his trip and share some of his awesome photographs with us. Here’s what he had to say:
What did you think of the Okavango as a safari destination?
It remains my best destination in Africa for safari though I do have the impression that the numbers of animals as drastically reduced in the last 20 years.
What was your favourite thing about Victoria Falls?
We were unlucky with the weather and the falls with too much water (as expected for the season). The walking tour along the falls is my favourite experience, even better that the heli flight, because you feel the impressive power of the water! I’d also like to mention the good dinner and friendly ambiance created by the crew on board of the Sunset Cruise.
What was your most unforgettable moment?
Probably the photo shooting of the leopard. I looked like a staged scene for National Geographic but it was real i.e. the leopard, a magnificent sun-set, the leopard jumping on the branch perfectly exposed…
If you could describe your trip in one word what would it be?
Rewarding
What was the best sighting of your trip?
See above plus the sunset on the pond with the hippos in the background.
Where in Africa would you like to go next?
Never done Ethiopia and Rwanda (Gorillas)
Thank you Giorgio for sharing your incredible pictures and stories – we hope to see you back on African soil again soon!
If you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime African safari, it is important to keep in mind the differences between game reserves and National Parks so that you can get the exact adventure that you have been dreaming of. Many travellers to Africa don’t realise that there is a huge difference between game reserves and National Parks, and this can often lead to disappointment because guests were hoping for a distinct type of experience.
What can be even more confusing is that private game reserves often exist within the target National Parks. For instance Singita Lebombo operates on a private concession within the Kruger National Park. Read on to learn more.
Perhaps the most striking difference between the two lies in the exclusivity and freedom that guests will encounter. If you are looking for a unique safari adventure, it is essential to book in a private game reserve. Because there are fewer safari tours that take place in private game reserves, guests are allowed to freely explore the African wilderness.
Private game reserves offer guests the opportunity to escape from the crowds that are associated with the larger National Parks. This means that guests can experience the true African bushveld all to themselves, and they won’t have to share their wildlife sightings with an enormous crowd of other vehicles.
The number of visitors to National Parks is not restricted so the safari experience is open to everyone. Although this is not necessarily a bad thing, it does mean that you will have to share your sightings with quite a large number of other people. ‘Traffic jams’ are a real thing in National Parks as visitors scramble about to view animals that have been sighted. Visiting a National Park will also mean having to share your bucket-list safari experience with all sorts of other visitors. At private game reserves, the number of vehicles that can be present at a game sighting is restricted to two or three cars which means that you are ensured the ultimate game viewing experience.
National Parks are open to everyone, so sightings are often fleeting and crowded with other visitors and tourists. Often the best photos you can get will have a car or two in the picture.
National Parks often have many tar roads that allow visitors to enjoy them in any rental car available from the airport where you arrive. Even most of the dirt roads have been well maintained and will allow you to drive on them in a regular sedan or hatchback. This makes them National Parks very accessible to visitors. Most game reserves use purpose built 4X4s in order to traverse through the wild African terrain and get you into the best possible position to view the animals.
Private game reserves are just that, private. They allow you to experience Africa’s wilderness in a more authentic fashion, where you see Africa’s animals in their natural environment, undisturbed by the vehicles around them.
Private game reserves only allow game viewing vehicles from the lodges to be used, and the rules about where you can drive are very different from the rules at National Parks. In private game reserves, game viewing vehicles are allowed to drive off-road to allow guests to search for big cats or to track specific animals. Private game reserves don’t have hours of operation like National Parks so guests are given an exclusive opportunity to experience an exhilarating night drive. This means that visitors to a private game reserve enjoy a more ‘full’ experience than visitors to a National Park.
This means that at private game reserves you get to see amazing animal interactions that often occur out of sight of main roads and would definitely be missed at most National Parks.
It is essential to have the option of going on night drive if you would like to search for nocturnal animals which won’t be visible during the day. Unfortunately, visitors to a National Park have to abide by the rules that are set by the Park. This means that game drives are restricted to certain times and to certain roads. Guests cannot enjoy night drives in many National Parks. Bush walks are another popular activity that private game reserves offer that cannot be enjoyed by guests of most National Parks.
Most National Parks generally offer self catering options like these quaint rondavels or “huts”, where luxury private game reserves are usually an all included experience, with beautifully made up rooms and sumptuous feasts waiting for you after your daily activities.
There are positives to both types of African safari, but for the ultimate luxury African safari experience we would always recommend a private game reserve.
Although it might seem that private game reserves are the way to go, it is important to remember that National Parks do offer some of the best game viewing in Africa and it is an experience that is not to be missed. Ultimately, your choice has to be based on the kind of experience you are looking for. If you are looking for exclusivity and freedom, private game reserves are your best option.
“One of my very favourite things to keep me company on peaceful evenings in the bush, when the sun is setting, the dust is settling and the night-time creatures are starting to come alive is a Gin and Tonic. The added notes of cardamom and lime make this one extra special, and the pretty pinkness from the blueberry skins is hard not to love.” Sarah Graham.
Ingredients
Zest and juice of 1 lime
1 cardamom pod
1 cup blueberries
¼ cup caster sugar
4 tots gin
600ml tonic
Lots of ice
What to do
1. Add lime zest, cardamom pod, sugar and blueberries to your pestle and mortar. Crush the cardamom pod to release the seeds and mix everything together into a rough paste.
2. Transfer the mixture to a large glass jug, adding lime juice, gin and tonic water to taste, and lots of ice.
Photo from ‘Sarah Graham’s Food Safari Season 2’ by Ricardo de Leça.
For more of Sarah’s delicious food safari recipes click here.
January has flown by already and 2017 is now in full swing!
The year has got off to a great start. We’ve reflected back on 2016, explored some stunning new lodges, gone on an expedition in search of leopards, created our 2017 bucket list and delved deeper into the Kruger National Park.
Just in case you missed out, scroll down here for a sneak peek at what we’ve been up to or click here for our latest Bush Diary Video. #luxury #safari #travel #africa
Botswana is an immense country with an endless and magnificent wilderness. From the Kalahari desert with its rolling grassy dunes and famed black-mane lions; to the impossible vastness of the Makgadikgadi salt pans; to Chobe in the east where the verdant river cuts a swathe through the arid land supporting enormous herds of game and the predators that follow them; to the Okavango Delta, Linyanti and Selinda where the Kalahari sands become an patchwork of crystal channels and emerald islands that support the most astonishing array of iconic African wildlife in a world of refreshed and pristine beauty.
There is no best time to go to Botswana – anytime is excellent. That said, there are a number of factors to consider when planning a Botswana safari depending on what it is you are looking for.
The annual floodwaters of the Okavango Delta begin to rise in May (early winter) peaking in July and then receding again until the end of August. The weather is cooler during this period with nighttime temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing while midday is generally balmy. This is the best time of the year for water-based activities such as riding mokoros and boating through the endless channels. Vegetation is sparse making it easier to view the game and the lack of water ensures that the herds congregate at the riverside and waterholes. Game drives can be limited in the water-based camps but this is more than made up for by the water activities.
The summer months (November to March) constitute the rainy season and temperatures can reach peaks of 35 degrees Celsius. Rain is delivered in spectacular afternoon thunderstorms. This is the time when the migrant birds are resident and extensive game drives are possible. The bushveld transforms into a hive of activity for predators and young herbivores alike and a lush green hue embraces the landscape. Some camps have limited water activities at this time of year. Find out more detail per region below.
Recommendations by Region:
The Okavango Delta
A magical wonderland at the heart of the Kalahari, the Okavango Delta is one of the world’s most prolific wildlife destinations. The waterways overflow with hippos and crocodiles while herds of antelope and elephant graze the rich floodplains.
Dry Winter Season (May to October)- This is an advisable time for water activities and the best time to see the hippo, elephant, buffalo and plethora of other game that call the verdant banks home.
Rainy Season (November to March)– Although game viewing is still good it’s not as great as in winter as the bush is very lush and thick. Take care; as you may get rained on during game drives at this time of year!
The Savuti Region (within the Chobe National Park)
Savuti is situated in the South of Chobe National Park. It’s famous for its quantity and quality of wildlife as well as its jaw-dropping predator sightings.
Dry Winter Season (May to October)- The dry winter months ensure the best possible game viewing and predator sightings.
Rainy Season (November to March) – The rainy season is green and beautiful promising fantastic bird watching and maybe even a sighting of the phenomenal zebra migration.
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve is truly unique area surrounding a large portion of the Okavango Delta and its patchwork of waterways, islands, grasslands and woodlands.
Dry Winter Season (May to October)- The weather is pleasant, mild and dry, the Okavango Delta is in flood and game viewing is brilliant at this time of year.
Rainy Season (November to March) – As the rains approach so do the stunning migrant birds and imminent birthing of lambs and foals.
Linyanti Region
Just west of Chobe National Park lies the woodlands and wetlands of the remote Linyanti Region. This is the ultimate in big game wilderness with dry season herds and predators to rival anything you’ll find elsewhere in Botswana.
Dry Winter Season (May to October) – Game viewing is best at this time due to the sparse vegetation and lack of water.
Rainy Season (November-March) – There is still lots of game but it’s sometimes difficult to see due to the lush vegetation.
Whatever time of year you choose to visit magical Botswana you are assured the ultimate African safari and most probably the best game viewing you have ever… or will ever see!
“One day, you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it now.” Paulo Coelho
Having a bucket list is a great way of making sure we see, do and experience as much as we possibly can. To help you with yours we’ve handpicked the most, breath-taking, unforgettable and unbelievable experiences that Africa has to offer. All of which come very highly recommended!
The leopard is without a doubt the most beautiful and most elusive member of the Big Five. It’s the most sought after sighting amongst tourists and one that safari guides across Africa spend their days in search of. If you are lucky enough to see a leopard in your life… that moment will be one that you remember and treasure forever.
Leopards are solitary and stealthy predators whose mastery of camouflage makes them very difficult to spot. To increase your chance of seeing them you need to find their prime habitats where concentrations are greatest. It also really helps if guides are able to take you on night drives as well as drive off road in the reserve to follow these magnificent predators. A leopard sighting is truly a sight to behold but unfortunately seeing them really is down to luck. However, if you go to one of the 5 places listed below you will most definitely have better odds of witnessing this definitive wildlife experience.
The Sabi Sands situated on the Kruger National Park’s western boundary has an incredibly high concentration of leopard. Within the Sabi Sands your best bet is most definitely Londolozi as this pinnacle safari destination prides itself in its incredible relationship with its leopards. The reserve contains hoards of the perfect leopard prey, its lush habitat and expanse of dense trees makes is perfect for leopards and guides are allowed to drive off road and at night in search of them.
Click here to read our five favorite stories from the famous Londolozi blog.
Moremi is a truly special place as it surrounds much of the Okavango Delta, Botswana’s wildlife hotspot. With herds of small antelope, monkeys, warthogs and the like the grassy floodplains and tall forest are prime leopard country. Most of the camps allow night and off-road driving which helps considerably too. Chiefs Camp in particular sits on the Delta’s largest island and is renowned for some of the best big game viewing in all of Africa and most notably leopard viewing.
The Samburu and Masai Mara National Reserves both have great reputations for excellent leopard sightings. Samburu a dry woodland area and the Mara an open rolling grassland are both prime leopard habitats. Leopards lie especially along the rivers, in the trees and in amongst the kopjes awaiting the arrival of their prey often which consist of the great herds that move annually into the areas.
South Luangwa, Zambia
The exquisite South Luangwa Valley in central Zambia boasts one of the highest concentrations of leopard in Africa due to its high concentrations of prey. A wide and fertile alluvial plain nourished by the Luangwa River, the park’s wildlife ranges from aardvark to zebra and it has long been known for its dense concentrations of predators, especially lions and leopards. South Luangwa camps also offer some of Africa’s best walking safaris, which enable you to prowl this big predator country on foot!
The Kalahari Desert is a large “waterless” desert covering most of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. It is hot and rainfall is minimal but it is also home to a large collection of leopard, which graze and cool off by the few rivers in amongst the sandy plains, mostly up North towards Namibia.
A leopard sighting is one of life’s true wonders, an experience you will never forget and one that will leave you speechless and covered (head to toe) in goosebumps! We wish you all the best on your quest to get up close and personal with Africa’s most magnificent predator.
January is a time for planning and looking to the future… but it it is also a time for reflection. A time to look back at the year gone by and remember all the great times had, magic moments experienced and adventures encountered! 2016 certainly was an eventful year for us with so many epic memories made. To give it its due we have handpicked our top 10 blogs of the year for you here:
The Great Crossing
‘If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far, go together.’ African Proverb.
One lone wildebeest wanders around snorting, cavorting and indulging in the odd blade of red grass. He’s skittish yet surprisingly feisty and fearless. He approaches the vehicle with a confident and somewhat rambunctious attitude. He’s the first, in fact, he’s winning the race. Perhaps not a race that you want to win though, when the closer you are to the front, the hungrier the crocodiles and other predators are!
Iconic Africa Bush Diary Episode #1
Iconic Africa is proud to present the Iconic Africa Bush Diaries!
We would like to give a warm welcome to James Hendry an old friend and expert safari guide who will be sharing monthly bush diary videos from the heart of the Kruger National Park. James is incredibly talented with a camera and his understanding of and passion for the African bushveld is unparalleled. Thank you James, we are excited to have you on board!
On first hearing about the Big Five – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo and elephant – you may presume that the select few were chosen due to their impressive size. You wouldn’t be the first person to make that mistake. After all, the adjective – big – certainly points to that conclusion. Right about now, those who are familiar with Africa’s fauna might question why hippos –weighing in at several tons – did not shove their way onto the list? The answer becomes clear when you delve into a little research about the origins of the term. To save you the trouble, I’ve done it for you; the Big Five was coined by Africa’s early hunters to identify the most dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Click here for more.
So much to take in, so little time
You may think you’ve seen it all and that you know a lot about the bush, but I can guarantee you that a visit to the Masai Mara is the learning safari of a lifetime. From the mating habits of lions, to the displaying characteristics of the crowned cranes, to the Latin and common names of the trees, to the quirky behaviour of the male wildebeest, to the idiosyncrasies of the local Maasai people… there is so much to take in. Kenyan guides are incredible storytellers; they are knowledgeable and passionate and ensure that with each game drive so much is learnt, not only about the bush and its wildlife but also about life in general too! For more on the pure magic that is the Masai Mara click here.
Top 5 Places to See Leopards in Africa
The leopard is without a doubt the most beautiful and most elusive member of the Big Five. It’s the most sought after sighting amongst tourists and one that safari guides across Africa spend their days in search of. Leopards are solitary and stealthy predators whose mastery of camouflage makes them very difficult to spot. To increase your chance of seeing them you need to find their prime habitats where concentrations are greatest. However, if you go to one of the 5 places listed below you will most definitely have better odds of witnessing this definitive wildlife experience.
A weekend at the lovely Leeu House
From the minute we pulled up outside the exquisite Leeu House we were overwhelmed with the unbelievable 5 star service. The valet, Andy opened the door and welcomed us with the biggest of African smiles, stretching from ear to ear. His warmth was all encompassing and before we knew it he had unpacked the car, taken our luggage inside and taken the car off to park! Second to greet you are the two awe-inspiring sculptures of Mandela and Ghandi, history’s most iconic leaders. These are the first indication of the grandeur and the consideration of the space that awaits you. Not to mention, the seamless integration of African and Asian influence that runs throughout the property. Click here for more on our wonderful weekend at Leeu House.
The Absolute Abundance of East Africa
In amongst whistling thorns, white thorns, fever trees and wild olives the great plains of the Masai Mara are home to many of Africa’s most majestic animals. The red grass savannahs, interminable vistas and distinct horizons combine to ensure the most quintessential African panorama. The density and variety of wildlife is unreal, with often more than ten different species of mammals in one spot, an anomaly that is unheard of elsewhere. The Mara boasts hoards of unique antelope such as the graceful Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelle as well as the colourful topis making it the ultimate predator’s paradise. Everything, in absolute abundance… and so much more here.
Africa’s Greatest Ocean Safari
When you hear the word “safari” you immediately think of the Masai Mara, the Serengeti or the Kruger National Park. However, the official dictionary definition of the word “safari” is “an expedition to observe or hunt animals in their natural habitat.”So why not explore the offshore wonders of the Indian Ocean from White Pearl, Mozambique – where a somewhat different but equally magical adventure awaits?Up, Up and Away
Since the very first time I went to the Serengeti when I was 12, I have dreamt about going on a Balloon Safari. It literally has sat at the very top spot on my bucketlist for the last (almost) 20 years. Little did I know that a few weeks ago, I would get to live out this dream and it would blow me away more than I could ever have imagined…
Londolozi: A Photo Essay
This past weekend we ran our first official Instagram takeover by the unbelievably talented @lara.jess during her trip to Londolozi. We hope you have enjoyed her photos and if not follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on more #IAtakeovers like this.
December has arrived and it’s time to take a minute and reflect on the wonderful year we have had. We’ve taken lots of lovely travellers on some incredible African adventures and we can’t wait to take them on more. Here are just a few of the awesome reviews we’ve received on Trustpilot this year. To the 10 travellers below, you know who you are – thank you for your ongoing support and we are so glad you enjoyed your trips with us. We can’t wait to have you back on African soil again soon!
We had the most amazing experience with Iconic Africa!!! They provided great rates and the most incredible support when we had a medical crisis. Terry was available at all hours and even tracked down the best medical specialist in Cape Town for us!!!! I cannot give a higher recommendation!! They are the best!
The Iconic Africa team puts you the guest at the centre of everything they do. They are innovative, accommodating, caring and so everything In their power to sprinkle magic dust that turn your dreams into reality. By far the only provider you should work with for an amazing safari experience anywhere in Africa.
What a wonderful holiday. The advice given beforehand was excellent. The route, hotels and activities proposed were perfect for our family. We felt that that was always someone to turn to if needed. Highly recommended!
Iconic Africa have been absolutely amazing in offering a bespoke end to end holiday solution. I cannot praise them enough! Right from picking the right resort to the transfers at location to making your holiday special, they think of it all.
Being a huge game reserve lover, but not knowledgable of all the game reserves in South Africa, Iconic Africa planned our family game reserve experience to perfection. They were very attentive to our needs and specific requirements and couldn’t have picked a better place for us to stay. It exceeded all of our expectations and made for a truly memorable, family holiday. Thank you Iconic Africa!
Iconic Africa organised my whole trip to East Africa, and I couldn’t have asked for a more incredible itinerary. Every little detail was taken care of, from flights to road transfers; nothing was overlooked. Iconic allowed me to see the true splendour of East Africa. The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Ngorongoro and Tarangire were all out of this world!
I celebrated a special birthday with my family. What a great time had by all. Londolosi was a highlight viewing the “Big 5” and witnessing a leopard take down a young waterbuck. The cycle of life and conservation of this beautiful park will be in our hearts forever. Iconic Africa put a fabulous itinerary together with emphasis to detail. We will be back!!
Left the whole programme to Iconic Africa having given them the nature of the trip and a budget. They translated this into a full itinerary that was well thought through appropriate in price and location and time spent at each destination. The choices were excellent and at all times we seem to have the best rooms so the planning was clearly meticulous and at all times they were available for contact. I would strongly recommend using them and have every intention to return.
Iconic Africa prides itself on having first hand experience of the properties they recommend…and it shows! On their recommendation we had a fantastic stay at Lion Sands in the Sabi Sands Reserve. We received wonderful service from the res team, which continued throughout our trip and filtered into our experience on the ground in River Camp, which I couldn’t rate more highly. I will certainly make use of Iconic Africa’s services and recommend them to any discerning traveller looking for customised safari experience in Southern Africa.
“The only man I envy is the man who has not yet been to Africa – for he has so much to look forward to.” Richard Mullin
With 2016 drawing to a close it’s time to start preparing your 2017 adventures! We’ve hand-picked our Top 5 African Safari’s for 2017 to help you out. Whether you are looking for the perfect family safari, a romantic getaway or an East African adventure… we’ve got just the thing for you!
Africa’s Family Getaway
Africa’s Family Getaway is the ultimate luxury bespoke family holiday. It is full of excitement, adventure and fun while maintaining an indulgent level of sumptuous luxury. It is also completely safe for young children. The One&Only Cape Town is perfectly placed and appointed to accommodate your family in luxury while being an excellent launch pad to the delights of the Cape. Lelapa is malaria free and by far the premier luxury safari camp for families with a quite exceptional children’s programme amidst gorgeous wilderness and opulent accommodation. Likewise Tongabezi is specially equipped and staffed to delight the modern family with adventure and fun in complete safety and extravagance. Click here for full itinerary
Luxury East African Adventure
This tour as its name suggest is a grand tour of East Africa. From the colonial opulence of Hemingways Nairobi to the breathtaking views and exceptional service at Angama Mara, to the ultimate safari at Singita Faru Faru, to the pearly whites sands of andBeyond’s Mnemba Island Lodge in Zanzibar. Only the very best in East African hospitality, classic safari experiences, sumptuous luxury and unbelievable wildlife encounters await you. Click here for full itinerary.
The Royal Romance
Africa is the continent of safari, wilderness and adventurous escapades but infused into all of this is an unmistakable and ancient romance. Iconic Africa’s Royal Romance combines the beauty, wilderness, adventure and pioneering excitement of Africa with four destinations that define supreme luxury permeated with complete privacy and opulent romance. Ellerman House is the definition of modern sophisticated living on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the marvels of Cape Town all around. La Residence is the jewel of Franschoek – abject indulgence suspended in an impossibly beautiful valley of vineyards. Royal Malewane is impeccably tasteful grandeur surrounded by the majesty of the African wilderness. Royal Chundu is the ancient mystery and magic of the Zambezi in luxurious island seclusion. Click here for full itinerary
Safari and Island Retreat
Southern Africa offers some of the most spectacular coastlines the world-over. Iconic Africa has picked boutique luxury on the shores of the raw wild Atlantic and floating in the tropical serenity of the Indian Ocean. Cape Cadogan nestled on the northern slopes of Table Mountain, offers relaxed, family-owned style and luxury – a perfect base from which to explore the awesome beaches, gastronomy and viticulture of the Cape. Azura Benguerra, in the cobalt warm waters of the Indian Ocean offers a new level of fresh sophistication, seclusion and serenity on pristine beaches and unspoilt reefs. In between these, Londolozi Private Granite Suites offer you discerning and opulent hospitality combined with the world’s best leopard viewing. Click here for full interactive itinerary
Luxury Londolozi African Safari
Iconic Africa has crafted the perfect mix of the ultimate in African luxury destinations to bring you the Luxury Londolozi African Adventure. You’ll begin your trip in the Cape of South Africa at the Cape Grace – in the heart of the world’s most beautiful city and then visit La Residence perched on the slopes of the Franschhoek Valley on the world’s most beautiful wine-lands. From there you will travel to the magnificent Londolozi Founders Camp in the exquisite Sabi Sands and then on to Zambia where you will experience the majesty of Victoria Falls from The Royal Livingstone and lastly to Jao Camp in the midst the wilderness wonderland of the Okavango Delta. Click here for full interactive itinerary.
Just in case none of these sound right click here for some other wonderful options or contact us to tailor the perfect African Safari for you and your loved ones.
The end of the year is upon us and for those of us going on holiday it’s time to start planning and organising. If you are lucky enough to be going on an African safari we’ve put together the perfect packing list to help you out.
“There is something about a safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.” Karen Blixen
Every person has a right to this feeling and should go on safari at least once… Here’s what you should pack:
ICONIC AFRICA’S EXTRA SPECIAL SAFARI PACKING LIST
THE BASICS
Trousers (neutral colours)
Shorts (neutral colours)
T-shirts (neutral colours)
Long sleeved t-shirt or turtleneck (neutral colours)
Short sleeved shirts or blouses (neutral colours)
Long sleeved shirt or blouse (neutral colours)
Cardigan/pullover
Scarf/Pashmina
Shoes (closed walking and sandals)
One outfit of “smart casual” evening attire
Swimsuit
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Flip flops (optional) for pool or shower
Personal toiletries
If you are travelling in winter i.e. between April and October ( fleece, warm gloves, scarf and beanie are recommended)
THE EXTRAS
Sun block
Sunglasses
Wide brimmed hat
Lip balm
Binoculars and a camera are a must
Chargers for your cell phone, camera, video camera, etc.
Batteries for small electronics and cameras
Flashlight
First aid kit
Insect repellent and malaria tablets, depending on where you’re going
Credit and ATM cards
Driver’s licence
Health-insurance card
Local guidebooks
Bird and animal guidebooks
Passport and photocopies of passport
Printouts of reservations
Travel journal
If you have any questions or think that we have left something out please let us know and be sure to follow our Instagram feed to get you excited for your upcoming safari. And last but not least – enjoy every minute of it. We can assure you that Africa is the most beautiful place you will ever visit… and once you’ve been… you will never stop wanting to go back.
October has been and gone and it has most definitely been an exciting and eventful month for us! We’ve been on Africa’s Greatest Ocean Safari, explored the Magical Mara Triangle, shared some award-winning photographs, ticked off some breathtaking bucket list adventures and paid a visit to the lovely Londolozi.
If you’ve been busy don’t worry! Simply scroll down here for a taster of what’s been happening or click here to see our latest Bush Diary video and go on your very own mini safari right now. We hope you’ve enjoyed these brief moments of true African wonder. #luxury #safari #travel #africa
A big thank you to Graham Wood and Bastien and Gabs le Coz for their contributions this month. Be sure to keep an eye on our social media pages for special offers on Africa’s most luxurious destinations, exciting bush news, heart-stopping sightings and awe-inspiring photography.
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Most National Parks generally offer self catering options like these quaint rondavels or “huts”, where luxury private game reserves are usually an all included experience, with beautifully made up rooms and sumptuous feasts waiting for you after your daily activities.
