Category: safari

Property of the Month: Chief’s Camp Botswana 

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Nestled on Chief’s Island – renowned for some of the best big game viewing in all of Africa – These twelve thatched pavilions, all with panoramic views of the Piajio floodplain, overlook the abundant herds of animals, and the prolific delta birdlife.   

This month’s property of the month is an understated, yet multi-award-winning luxury accommodation that boasts a delicious bush cuisine. 

Chief’s Camp is nestled on Chief’s Island – a verdant spit of land floating in the Okavango Delta. The island is renowned for some of the best big game viewing in all of Africa while the camp is a refined and polished tribute to the magnificent wilderness that is the Okavango. 

With just twelve generous thatched pavilions, all with panoramas of the Piajio floodplain, the abundant herds of animals, their stalking predators and the prolific delta birdlife is never more than a few steps away.

Palatial pavilions

The twelve gorgeous thatch and gauze pavilions at Chief’s Camp are airy islands of serenity. Each vaunts an ample king-size bedroom that leads to a separate lounge area. The bathrooms have both inside and outside showers and the private decks afford beautiful vistas from the shade of giant sausage trees where you might while away the midday from the comfort of an inviting armchair – a herd of elephants browsing below.

The main dining, sitting, pool and boma areas are set in the shade of giant trees and raised on expansive decking that extends onto the Piajio floodplain. From the comfort of the leather sofas, wicker chairs and dark wood chaise longue next to the pool, you can sip your favourite cocktail or read a tome of Africa, looking up every-so-often to watch the miracle of life unfolding in the floodplain below.

Chief’s Camp takes pride in creating gastronomic delights to compliment the scenic wonder of the venue you choose. You might opt for private dining on your deck to the symphony of a million frogs or you perhaps dine out on the floodplain under a billion African stars.

The Piajio Floodplain

In summer (November to April), the Piajio is dryer and there will be huge herds of plains game like lechwe, impala and zebra grazing as they watch for predators. In winter (May to August), the floodplain is inundated, and you will delight in the antics of the frogs, birds and fish while elephant bulls feed on the fringes or cross from one side to the other.

Exploring Chief’s Island

Perhaps the current highlight of Chief’s Island is the rhino re-introduction programme. Seeing one of these prehistoric giants returned to this phenomenal area is tear-jerking experience. If you are not looking for rhino, you might be watching cheetah stalking one of the many herds of red lechwe on the fringes of the plain. 

In the misty morning, you could follow large pride of lions on the fresh tracks of a herd of buffalo and in the dimming gold of the afternoon, you could be fortunate enough to encounter one of the many leopards of the island – completely unfazed by your presence.

When the floodwaters are up, discovering the wonders of the channels from a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) is another-worldly experience as you float among the reeds, the frogs and the inexhaustible birdlife while a surfeit of mammals feed at the water’s edge.

One jewel in a treasure trove

Whether you are a family on an adventure or a couple looking for romance, southern Africa has some incredible destinations. Iconic Africa recommends that you begin your African holiday in the Cape – either in Cape Town where the beaches, bars, mountain and restaurants will enthral you, or in the gorgeous wine lands of the Franschhoek Valley. From the Cape, Chief’s Island is the next destination and then it’s on to the majesty, mystery and adventure of the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe. A luxury Kruger Park safari in the world-famous Sabi Sands is the perfect ending to the African adventure of a lifetime.

Chiefs Camp is an unassuming luxury in one of the Okavango Delta’s most revered locations! Over the years Chiefs Camp has received world acclaim for its world-class luxury safari experience. Finding availability is thus not easy so do not hesitate in contacting one of our African travel experts and begin your journey to Africa with us now!

A BIG thank you to our travellers

Posted on by Lexi Hall

The end of the year is on us again and it’s time to reflect on all the wonderful moments the year has brought us. We have had the privilege of making many traveller’s safari dreams come true and we can’t wait to take you on more adventures! 

We’d like to take this opportunity to send a very special thank you to all our clients who have taken the time to review us on Trustpilot. We appreciate your continuous support and are thrilled that we have could be a part of your unforgettable African memories. 

We’ve had a look through our 2019 reviews and here are some of our favourites:

***

Pete Shelton – Absolutely the best!

Iconic was absolutely fantastic and exceeded our expectations with everything we did. All the drivers and guides were always helpful, kind, knowledgeable and always on time. There were no issues with any of the accommodation reservations, plane tickets or transfers. The itinerary was phenomenal and we would not change a thing. We will absolutely use Iconic the next time we venture to Africa (which we all are hoping will be sooner than later!).

 

Philip Jackman – Courteous, timely and very knowledgeable service!

Iconic Africa provided a truly unique travel experience and I would highly recommend their services to anyone travelling in and around South Africa. All of the lodging accommodations were first-rate in terms of service, food and location (urban and on safari). The guided tour recommendations were also well organized and easy to choose, and there was no pressure to choose a high-priced option over the more economical options. The tour companies are all well run, and every driver was on time and well trained about the tourist sites. Every step of the way, Iconic Africa was only a phone call or a WhatsApp message away for answering questions.

 

Christine Tessler – Our trip to Africa was outstanding

Our trip to Africa was outstanding! A highlight of the trip was how informative and knowledgeable the guides were, they made our trip so much more than we had hoped for. Every andBeyond place we stayed made us feel welcomed and cared for, we couldn’t have asked for anything more. Every detail was taken care of by Iconic Africa, they made our vacation one we will never forget. Thank you for everything!

Bev van Schoor was so helpful when we had questions and she listened to what we wanted and gave us so much more! I highly recommend her and Iconic Africa!

 

Phillip Vecchio – Treated like your memories matter

Iconic Africa treats you as if one of their own. Rather than sell tours or experiences, they read who you are, care about that mix, understand your reasons for travel and then give you a lifetime of indelible memories

 

Bob Pearlman – Iconic Africa is a top-notch…

Iconic Africa is a top-notch organization and extremely knowledgeable about travelling in southern Africa, especially as it has to do with safaris. They handled everything from start to finish (in Africa – we were responsible for arranging our flights to Johannesburg and back), including all transfers and flights within Africa, practically without a hitch (nobody’s perfect). Accommodations were mostly top of the line, and we had an excellent all-around experience.

 

Geri Potter – The Iconic Africa team were a dream to…

The Iconic Africa team were a dream to work with. They were able to, not only tick every box on our bucket list, but also provide us with a first-class experience from beginning to end. From the volcanic Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania to Victoria Falls, Zambia, a tented safari at Singita Mara to a gorgeous cabin at Singita Kwitonda and a hotel suite at The Cape Grace at the foot of Table Mountain, gorilla in Rwanda to elephant, lion, leopard and everything in between in Tanzania and, our favorite, the leopards of Londolozi! Iconic Africa can do it all! Thank you, John, Lauren and Terri!!

We can’t wait to have you back on African soil again soon. Until then… 

Black Friday Special – Now 40% off at Madikwe

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Your tailor-made luxury African safari starts here this Black Friday! With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we have a lot to be grateful for – like a once-in-a-lifetime 40% off your stay at Madikwe Safari Lodge.

Let us take care of all the planning, logistics and scheduling so that you can enjoy what really matters: the ultimate adventure of a lifetime.

Madikwe Safari Lodge comprises of three extravagant camps spread between two picturesque and boulder-strewn hills on the eastern side of the magnificent Madikwe Game Reserve. The three camps offer exquisite privacy and romance, the premier family safari experience and the perfect place for small groups and celebrations. All of this surrounded by the abundance of wildlife and the unforgettable scenery of malaria-free Madikwe.

Madikwe Black Friday Deal Includes:

• Luxurious accommodation
• Three meals per day; Teas/Coffees; Mini bar in room
• Inclusive drinks & selected snacks (all soft drinks and selection of beers, spirits & house wines)
• Two game drives daily with FGASA qualified ranger; Game drive refreshments & snacks
• Specified inclusive safari activities
• Wi-Fi in public areas

Madikwe Black Friday Deal Excludes:

• Laundry
• Premium brand beers, spirits, cellar wines & champagnes; Cigars & cigarettes
• All flights and transfers (other than Skukuza Airport)
• Gratuities; Telephone calls
• Curio shop purchases; Spa treatments; Trails experience; Any additional extras will be for the guests’ account
• Madikwe Park Fee per person per stay
• Madikwe Conservation Fee per person per day


For more information on Madikwe Safari Lodge, click here.

Keep an eye out for our Lion Sands Black Friday Deal for those wanting to gift themselves or a loved one this festive season with the best gift of all – time in the bush.

ENQUIRE NOW or call us: United States +1 888 345 3443 or South Africa: +27 82 411 5776
Availability is limited so contact us as soon as possible so we can make your African safari dream come true.

Terms and Conditions
All enquiries to be submitted here between 08:00 29 November and 11pm 2 December.
Bookings need to be confirmed and deposits paid in full within 7 days of confirmation.
Travel dates are for 4 January – 30 April 2020 & 1 – 31 May 2020
All bookings are subject to availability.

10 Things to be Thankful for as Africans

Posted on by Lexi Hall

“I am an African not because I was born in Africa but because Africa was born in me.” – Kwame Nkrumah

The African continent holds a very special place in our hearts and how often do we take a few moments to appreciate what we have in our life? Today is the day to give thanks for all those things that make a difference in our daily lives and visiting Africa so incredible.

To those who have never been… we wish that you will visit in the not-too-distant future and that you will come to know and love this amazing place.

In the meantime & in the spirit of thanksgiving here are 10 things we (as African’s) are grateful for:

 

Our People

Special conversations, shared laughs and smiles are parts of every day in Africa. The warmth, humility and courage of its people are overwhelming and infectious!

Our Sunrises and Sunsets

Only the best and most beautiful you could ever imagine. The sky lights up with a thousand splendid colours and imprints on your memory forever.

Our Wildlife

The variety and quantity of wildlife that we share with the continent is sometimes unbelievable. It is an honour to experience these majestic creatures.

Our Food

Always prepared with the utmost care the taste sensations and culinary journeys we are exposed to on a daily basis are out of this world!

Our Culture

This colourful land is bursting with characters, cultures, religions and beliefs aplenty. There is so much to see, to learn and to understand.

Our Landscapes

From savannahs, to mountains, to forests, to beaches to deserts we have it all and it’s ever-changing and always takes your breath away.

The Weather

Summer in South Africa is glorious. It’s hot, it’s humid and the afternoon summer thunderstorms are the best.

Summer Fruit

Pineapples, watermelons, apricots, peaches. All of these juicy edibles make summer totally delicious. 

Our Freedom

Nowhere else will you experience space like in Africa. The middle of nowhere is a real place here and a feeling experienced often on this endless continent!

Braai Time

There’s nothing quite like a braai on a warm afternoon with a few beers and cocktails. 

From all of us at Iconic Africa, Happy Thanksgiving!

In Pictures – Vumbura Plains 

Posted on by Lexi Hall

This property has an Idyllic Okavango setting where guests can enjoy Africa’s evenings of romance and splendour next to a spellbinding fire. Picture floating down a crystal-clear Okavango waterway on a mokoro or enjoying a couples massage out on your beautiful pool deck. Perhaps you would prefer a boat safari through the Delta channels, watching wildlife move through the water and reeds.

Vumbura Plains is a remote location on a stunning and exclusive concession in the northern Okavango Delta. The camp is a sanctuary of contemporary design that blends effortlessly into the trees that shade it from the Botswana sun. Vumbura Plains offers year-round water and land-based explorations into the Okavango where several prides of lion, leopard, cheetah and packs of endangered wild dog prey on vast herds of impala, lechwe, tsesebe and the magnificent sable antelope. Vumbura is a destination of luxury and adventure for couples and families alike.

A deck overlooking the panoramic delta

Vumbura Plains consists of two separate seven-roomed satellite camps. Vumbura north boasts two family rooms and is ideal for groups travelling together while the southern satellite is perfect for romance and honeymoon luxury.

The main lounge, dining and bar areas are airy and spacious tributes to contemporary African luxury with extensive decking and open sides offering spectacular vistas of the Okavango and the wilderness dramas unfolding there. There are both indoor and outdoor lounge areas of sumptuous comfort while the star deck – extending out into the waters of the delta where an astonishing abundance of bird, mammal and invertebrate life thrives – is a highlight for African fireside contemplation.

Like the main areas, the rooms are open, spacious and delightfully modern. The extensive outside deck with private plunge pool lies dappled by the shade of ancient African giants while the private spa, suspended over the flooded grasslands is the perfect place to luxuriate in a relaxing treatment. The deck leads to the polished wooden floors of the enormous double bedroom and lounge. The latter is a lower level refuge of delightful comfort offering endless vistas over the Okavango.

The highlight of the capacious bathroom is a huge glass-walled shower which allows you to watch the procession of delta wildlife on the plains below.

We could go on describing the crystal water and Kalahari sand or the fantastic food and wildlife sightings, but we would rather show you! 

Scroll down for some of our hand-picked images of Vumbura Plains.

5 Fun Activities in Botswana  

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Botswana has an incredible reputation as a premier wildlife destination yet remains an untouched wilderness of unbelievable diversity. Botswana is an immense country, from the Kalahari Desert with its famed black-mane lions; to the impossible vastness of the Makgadikgadi salt pans; to Chobe in the east. If you’re visiting this beautiful country and want to do a little more than game drives, we have put together our top five activities for you:

Botswana Safaris Okavango Safaris Okavango Delta

1. Shops of Maun 

Traditional Botswana baskets are known for their tight weaving and patterns, fashioned from the mokolwane palm. One basket can take weeks to complete. Take home your very own woven basket that can be found in the craft shops of Maun, a safari hub.

2. Fishing in September 

September is a great time to visit the Okavango Delta if you’re a fishing enthusiast. The waters of the Okavango Delta recede at this time of year, making it the ideal time for fly fishing. Giant catfish gather in papyrus reeds, attracting tiger fish and offering an exciting catch-and-release experience.

3. Star Gazing 

The Botswana sky is free from light pollution and lights up at night with a thousand stars! If you’re staying near the salt flats of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, you will be treated to the Milky Way splashed across the sky. You can even join a night game drive to stargaze and search for nocturnal animals.

4. Chapman’s Baobab

Another iconic site is Chapman’s Baobab – a predecessor of the modern GPS. This monumental tree was used as a landmark by 19th-century travellers crossing the Kalahari Desert. It also served as a postal service: Travelers tucked letters into its hollows for other explorers to find and relay to family and friends back home.

5. Prime Elephant Viewing

If you’re visiting Chobe National Park, you will find one of Africa’s largest concentrations of elephants. They migrate seasonally between the park’s floodplains and salt pans. For optimal elephant-viewing, visit the Chobe River area in October. 

For more information on what Botswana has to offer, click here. 

 

What Kids Love About Safari

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Whether it is sitting out on the verandah, drinking tea, and eating rusks after a busy morning on the beach, or waking up early to a delicious mug of hot chocolate before going out on a sunrise game drive through the Kruger National Park, we all have precious holiday traditions and memories of our own. 

Holiday rituals make family escapes memorable, and your kids will treasure these for the rest of their lives. They will probably even continue it with their own kids one day. 

Safaris are such amazing and magical experiences for children to have. Children have so much energy, and they absolutely love being bundled up into the car in their pyjamas so that they can catch an early morning game drive. There’s such excitement and anticipation involved in peering out the vehicle and spotting all the animals that are up bright and early to enjoy the fresh, cool morning air. 

Kids love spending the afternoons at the pool when it’s far too hot to be out searching for animals. They can enjoy refreshing ice-creams by the poolside, and they will surely be amused by hippos grunting lazily in the distance.  Whether it’s listening to stories from the morning’s drive, drawing pictures in the sand or watching the mischievous monkeys frolicking around the lodge – they will never be at a loss for entertainment!

When the sun starts going down in the late afternoon, you head off on the afternoon drive where you can sit at the waterhole to watch the elephants splash around. Of course, it’s a necessity to have biltong readily available – kids love a good snack on safari. 

Perhaps the most essential tradition for any safari-goer is to look out for the Big Five. Give your kids a checklist so that they can tick off each animal when they come across them. It keeps them entertained and excited. To help them spot animals, you should get each of them their own special pair of binoculars so that they can feel the true feeling of being a ‘professional’ animal-spotter. And, if your kiddies are old enough, hand them a camera—they will absolutely love to take photographs of the wildlife for you. Photos are another essential tradition for any safari-goer. When kids get home, they will spend hours poring over their photos while they remember, and dream of their time spent in the game park.

For help planning your next family safari, click here.

Property of the Month – Ngala Safari Camp 

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Timbavati is a 53 000-hectare private game reserve which sits on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park. It boasts an astonishing game diversity and offers the opportunity for nature lovers to see the Big 5.

The Reserve was founded in the 1950s when conservationists decided to transform failed farmland into a private game reserve. This incredible success story continued with the dropping of the fences between the private reserve and the famous Kruger National Park to allow the area to form part of a much larger sanctuary. It was, however, the White Lions of the Timbavati that shot this reserve into world acclaim in the 1970s, as people clambered from around the world to visit it in the hope of a glimpse of these rare animals.

Set on this private game reserve bordering Kruger National Park, is this month’s property of the month. This upscale, all-inclusive lodge overlooks a wildlife watering hole and is the essence of pioneering Kruger history combined with sumptuous luxury in a family-friendly environment. 

Ngala Safari Camp is 15 000 hectares of the epic and exclusive Kruger National Park. Tracking an endangered white rhino, through the green summer grass on a golden misty morning allows the ancient African wilderness to restore your soul. Scrumptious pan-African cuisine tantalises your palate on the deck overlooking the camp waterhole or in the boma suspended under the Milky Way’s heavenly canopy.

The exquisite camp

andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge is nestled in the shade of a cool green mopane forest infused with an atmosphere of rich history and the ultimate tranquillity of the African wild. The 21 exquisite thatched cottages are appointed to conjure the inspiration of the brave early naturalists who were so awed by this stunning area. The cottages boast opulent, spacious bathrooms, a bedroom with every possible comfort and a cosy seating area from which to enjoy a sherry or a book about the wonders of Africa.

Each cottage has its own perfectly secluded veranda, shaded by the aromatic mopane woodland that touches the air with a subtle spicy scent. Absorb the peace of the midday on the veranda; sip your favourite cocktail while the glossy starlings and chuckling hornbills forage in the woodland. Alternatively, laze in the crystal waters of the pool overlooking the waterhole where thirsty elephants shake their thirst shaded by an ancient Tamboti tree.

In the middle of the day, browse the extensive collection of Africana – books, jewellery, clothes and tasteful artefacts in the curio shop. Outside the shop, absorb the primordial tranquillity of the Kruger in the sublime calm of the outdoor lounge in the gilded shade of three old fever trees.

At tea time, take refuge in the coolth of the sumptuous lounge and watch a herd of 250 buffalo wind their way down the water’s edge – bulls to roll in the glorious mud, calves to frolic in the shallows.

A true wilderness

Out in the wild, Ngala offers the wildest Kruger experience. The reserve is 15 000 spectacular hectares of exclusive wilderness bisected by the iconic Timbavati River. This ageless river’s picturesque banks are dominated by forests of African giants – mahogany, ebony, fig and boer bean – where Ngala’s confiding leopard find refuge in the deep green and elephants wait out the lazy heat of the lowveld midday. Away from the Timbavati, herds of 600 buffalo gather at the waterholes in the ginger dusk. On the floodplains, prides of up to 25 lions rouse, black-maned males roaring, cubs cavorting in the twilight, lionesses stretching before heading into the night to hunt. As the soft light of the African dawn touches the eastern horizon, and the last hyaena whoops fade into the passing night, packs of wild dogs course onto the clearings to hound the abundant plains game gathered to graze.

Ngala activities

Ngala wilderness activities include adventurous dawn and dusk game drives and gentle walks from camp in the middle of the day. For those wanting to truly communicate with this ancient land, tracking walks in the misty morning to find a white rhino is the ultimate wilderness experience. An experienced ranger and tracker team leads you into the morning on the trail of an endangered white rhino – an experience that will, enchant, re-awaken and enthral every sense.

Fantastic for families

Ngala is specially equipped to offer safe African adventures to children without sacrificing sophisticated luxury and relaxation for parents. The lavish family suite has its own huge pool overlooking the Mapona River, two spacious bedrooms, and a dedicated game ranger. This is ideal for younger families because activities in the wild can be tailor-made to suit the needs of the whole family. The superb cottages are also situated such that parents and children can be close to each other.

Pan-African cuisine

The cuisine at Ngala is as pan-African – flavours and ingredients are drawn from the most gastronomically renowned regions of the continent. You could expect grilled beef from the highveld, succulent vegetables and sweet citrus from the lowveld, seared yellow-tail from the Indian Ocean and Arabian spices all the way from Morocco.

Breakfast and lunch are served overlooking the waterhole and its daily procession of exciting visitors. For dinner, Ngala boasts an impressive boma, centred on a roaring fire, overhung by the cascading African stars and the branches of a huge fever tree where roosting baboons are frequent observers. Dinner in the courtyard bathed by the soft light of 100 golden lanterns, candelabra and crystal glasses gives a sense of the colonial opulence of a bygone era. 

 

5 Iconic Destinations – Luxury Londolozi African Adventure Tour

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Discover everything Africa has to offer with this month’s tour of the month. Visit a land of unchartered beauty and experiences, from Londolozi – a place consistently voted amongst the world’s best to an awe-inspiring natural wonder of the world! 

The Luxury Londolozi African Adventure Tour takes you to five Iconic destinations including Cape Town, Sabi Sands, Victoria Falls and Botswana. 

Iconic Africa has crafted the perfect mix. 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. See the full itinerary below.

THE CAPE GRACE

Cape Town

  • Cape Grace is in the ideal position for you to enjoy all the enchantments of the Mother City including the harbour, yacht basin and Table Mountain.
  • The Cape Grace offers various choices of expansive, luxurious suites and rooms to suit all needs.
  • You are guaranteed to the ultimate opulence.
  • The African Spa offers a full suite of beauty and massage treatments, a gym and a hair salon.
  • Boasting endless panoramic views of the marina, mountain and the Atlantic Ocean

FRANSCHHOEK – LA RESIDENCE

Cape Winelands

  • La Residence is part of the world-beating Royal Portfolio.
  • It brings with it all the luxury, service excellence, scrumptious cuisine and tasteful décor that have become synonymous with this great brand.
  • The hotel is set on an exclusive 30-acre estate surrounded by vineyards and plum orchards with the breath-taking views of the Franschhoek valley beyond.
  • Each suite is an individual masterpiece of sophistication and opulence and filled with original art, antiques and freshly cut flowers.
  • From this spectacular boutique hotel, you can explore the valley, the surrounding farms or cosmopolitan Cape Town further afield.

Accommodation: La Residence

LONDOLOZI FOUNDERS CAMP

Sabi Sands

  • In Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2014, Londolozi was named the best hotel in the world!
  • It effortlessly exceeds all expectations on a luxury, hospitality, wilderness and experiential front
  • Londolozi is a feeling, you simply must visit to experience it for yourself.
  • Londolozi Founders Camp is one of Londolozi’s five intimate camps, set under a lush riverine canopy of Jackalberry trees and dotted along the banks of the Sand River.
  • Nestled at the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve lies Londolozi whose pristine river frontage positioning affords it an abundance of wildlife which has made Londolozi infamous for its incredible game viewing.

VICTORIA FALLS – ROYAL LIVINGSTONE HOTEL, ZAMBIA

Victoria Falls

  • The Royal Livingstone is situated in the heart of the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls.
  • It radiates Victorian elegance and local charm.
  • The luxurious Afro-chic rooms are generous spaces each with their own secluded terrace and view over the Zambezi.
  • Endless adventures and activities to explore.
  • One of the best sundowner spots as dusk turns the fall’s mist a golden pin

THE OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA – WILDERNESS SAFARIS

Botswana

  • The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the most remarkable natural phenomena which supports an intimidating diversity of iconic African wildlife.
  • Wilderness Safaris pioneered luxury safaris in this patchwork water wonderland with either water or land-based camps.
  • At Jao you might spend a full day out on a mokoro (dugout canoe) enjoying a picnic on an island in the shade of an ancient fig tree.
  • All the way through your Okavango escapade, you will enjoy delicious cuisine prepared by the dedicated staff at Wilderness Safaris.

Accommodation: Jao Camp

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Gorilla Safari Combo

Posted on by Lexi Hall

“Spending time with these gorillas changed my life.” – Ellen Degeneres.

No wildlife adventure can compete with coming face-to-face with a wild gorilla – it truly is the ultimate wildlife experience. 

“They are so incredible and so closely linked to us, sharing 98 per cent of our DNA. There are only 880 of these majestic creatures left on this planet,” adds Degeneres. So don’t leave it too late!

Due to the huge demand for a safari and gorilla combo, we have carefully crafted an incredible 7-night tour at a combination of our selected Sanctuary Retreats giving you a MASSIVE saving! Save over 33% on this amazing experience. Witness the iconic mountain gorillas now and bask in unimaginable luxury surrounded by the densest vegetation and the world’s most revered wildlife population. Pay a visit to the elephant orphanage in Kenya; see large prides of lion in Tanzania before stopping in Uganda to visit the majestic mountain gorillas. 

Best times to visit:

The best times to visit the gorillas are December to March and June to September as the rainy season is from April to May and October to November, with the wettest month being April. You can expect tropical climates and change in weather depending on your altitude.  

When to book:

Bookings fill up quickly and we recommend securing your trip between 12 and 18 months beforehand. 

Our very own director John Holley travelled to Rwanda to see Gorillas up close in their natural habitat. He had no idea how close….. that could be. Here’s a sneak peek… to give you an idea just how close he came!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAPi9rgsv3w

See below for full itinerary:

Spend 1 night at the Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi on a Bed & Breakfast basis. 

Situated along the Nairobi River in beautiful Kenya, Nairobi is East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. It serves as an excellent starting point for African safari trips around Kenya. Nairobi is Africa’s 4th largest city and is a vibrant and exciting place, with some fascinating attractions: its cafe culture, unbridled nightlife, the National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum and most notably just 20 minutes from the city centre wild lions and buffalo roam in the world’s only urban game reserve. Make sure you pay a visit to the elephant orphanage operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

This journey will then take you to the Masai Mara National Reserve offering wonderful scenery and plenty of game. It is perhaps the only region left in Kenya where the visitor may see animals in the same super-abundance as existed a century ago.

Spend 4 nights at the Sanctuary Olonana Camp in the Masai Mara on an all-inclusive basis. 

The Masai Mara together with Tanzania’s Serengeti form Africa’s most famous wildlife park, the Masai Mara National Reserve. The image of acacia trees dotting endless grass plains epitomises Africa for many, then add a Maasai warrior and some cattle to the picture and the conversation need go no further. The undeniable highlight of the Masai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly the annual wildebeest migration traversing the vast plains of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. It is known as the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet – with more than a million animals following the rains. Large prides of lion, elephants, giraffes, gazelles and eland can also be spotted in the reserve. Aside from horse riding safaris and traditional vehicle safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Mara plains has become almost essential.

Finally, fly to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in southwestern Uganda. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and accessible only on foot, it is one of the richest ecosystems in Africa providing habitat for over 90 mammals (including 11 primates), 346 species of birds (including 23 highly localized Albertine Rift endemics), 202 species of butterflies, 163 tree species, over 100 species of ferns, 27 species of frogs, chameleons, geckos and other endangered species. chameleons, geckos and other endangered species.

Spend 3 nights at Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on an all-inclusive basis.

Located in southwestern Uganda, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is said to be Africa’s oldest rainforest. It is world-renowned for its excellent gorilla-sighting opportunities. The rugged landscape features dense jungle, cascading waterfalls, sparkling mountain streams, deep valleys and steep ridges. This untouched forest has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its breathtaking natural beauty and unique ecological significance. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the spectacular Virunga Volcanoes. Bwindi is, however, most notable for her 340 Mountain Gorillas, about half the world’s population of this critically endangered primate. 

The opulence doesn’t end with your luxurious room! All guests visiting &Beyond safari lodges can now enjoy the use of a complementary pair of Swarovski binoculars, for the entire duration of their stay!

This offer is in high demand and difficult to get availability for, so don’t wait to book your once-in-a-lifetime experience. This offer is based for 2 adults sharing. The percentage discount varies based on selected property, seasonality and length of stay.  

*Please be sure to carefully check your passport & visa requirements for yourself and all the guests accompanying you on your trip.

Within Six Feet of Rhinos

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Our very own Terri Abadi has just had yet another unforgettable, heart-stopping encounter at our precious Londolozi. This time she was up close to five magnificent rhinos… on foot!

For a sneak peek of this incredible experience watch the video below or read on for more.  

 

“Less than two weeks ago I was within six feet of five rhinos. But I wasn’t in a Land Rover, nor was I safely tucked away in a viewing hide. 

No, I was on foot, crouched motionless next to a Knobthorn acacia tree with my ranger, fervently hoping the wind didn’t swing, which would let the enormous pachyderms catch our scent. 

There was a cow with a horn of over a metre long, feeding peacefully next to her 4-month old calf. She could potentially be aggressive if startled. Right next to them were two sub-adult bulls, only a few years old and still not completely independent. Lastly came a young cow, also probably an offspring of the huge female.

Five of one of Africa’s most threatened species were at eye-level with us, calmly grazing, totally oblivious to our presence (their eyesight is particularly poor), and I have never felt more alive!

Encounters like these can literally be life-changing. Coming face to face with the wildest of Africa’s creatures whilst simultaneously accessing your own vulnerability is a powerful cocktail of sensory stimulation and emotion, which seldom leaves the viewer unmoved. 

There is an intangibility to the true African experience which only the initiated can truly claim to understand; to profess a connection with this most varied of continents is only possible after seeing with your own eyes, after having felt the bare African earth beneath your own feet and after having heard the lion’s roar in the night air with your own ears.

I know that each time I return to the continent that is my spiritual home I will be changed. I will experience things I could hardly have imagined and I will feel things that some search for their whole lives. Awe. Deep Humility. Belonging.

The Africa of old storybooks is the Africa that is still out there; the Africa I found myself immersed in when five rhinos moved past almost within touching distance, with nothing between us but a few strands of grass, and no noise in the evening air but the sound of their heavy breaths and the pounding of my heart in my own ears. 

This is the Africa of dreams. The Africa of romance and of adventure. The Africa that silently waits in the red sunset of each day as she calls with her tribal drumbeats, and the Africa we want to share with you…”

by Terri Abadi

 

Our Favourite South African Hiking Trails

Posted on by Lexi Hall

South Africa is a top safari and tourist destination for many reasons: the great weather, beautiful landscapes, plethora of activities and the breath-taking hiking trails for the avid hiker to the less enthusiastic walker who is simply looking for a great backdrop. 

Each one of South Africa’s trails beckons travellers with unimaginable vistas; from seaside mountain tops to in-land reserves and magical forest trails. At least one of these picturesque paths will satisfy even the most insatiable nature-enthusiast. 

Most safaris let you explore by vehicle or even horseback – but what better way than by foot. Brush up against rugged mountain or unspoiled wilderness on your next trip! We’ve put together our top 10 hiking trails with a little bit of ocean breeze, wildlife sightings and forest thickets for you here: 

Lions Head – One of the best places to see the sunrise and sunset. 

Hennops Trail – Just 40 minutes from Johannesburg is the beautiful Hennops Trail that has streams along the way. There are two main hikes that takes you along hills with beautiful views. Cool off in the swimming pool after. 

Table Mountain’s Three Peaks – For the more avid, hard-core adventurists, this 9-hour hike will have you breaking a sweat. Starting at Devil’s Peak, move along the saddle up to Maclear’s Beacon, then down Kloof Corner to Lion’s Peak. If you aren’t scared of heights, then it’s hard to imagine a more exciting hike. 

Addo National Park – there are two hikes, one-day trails and a two-day hike along the coast. Both are beautiful and memorable. 

Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail – This coastal trail is a magical secret of the garden route. Cross various ridges and rivers and covers 64 kilometres before reaching Storms River Bridge.

The Otter Trail –  The Otter Trail is one of South Africa’s most famous hikes, and takes you through coastal forest, river crossings, and breathtaking viewpoints. Bookings open a year in advance – and sell out quickly. 

Hole in the Wall Hiking Trail – The Eastern Cape boasts a 31 kilometre distinctly memorable hiking experience that covers a combination of estuaries, mangrove swamps and seaside cliffs. The Wild Coast’s luxury trail can be completed over three days and is a bucket-list activity for all seaside lovers. 

Olifantsbos Shipwrecks hiking Trail – This is one of the Western Cape’s easier routes that cover a 5-kilometre distance. The short and sweet trail costs R110 and takes you through the Cape Point Nature Reserve.

Magiebaskloof Hiking Trail – This moderate trail is a beautiful way of seeing Limpopo’s ravines and sub-tropical forests. The full trail is almost 60 kilometres but shorter routes are optional. Forget the outside world under the canopy of trees and prepare for some light rain. 

Dolphin Hiking Trail – This easy 17 kilometre is another wonderful luxury three-night hike based on full board. It’s less daunting than the famous Otter Trail but still takes you to the Storms River Bridge and many other striking landmarks along the route. Perhaps you will even see some dolphins along the way. 

 

If you’ve undertaken one of these trails, or dream of trying one soon – we hope this helps you with your hiking bucket list.

All you need to know about the Serengeti

Posted on by Lexi Hall

If you’re planning your next African safari adventure to the Serengeti National Park, we have put together all you need to know to maximise your time in this East-African haven. The park was established in 1951 and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site thirty years later. Now the Serengeti National Park welcomes 350,000 visitors each year. 

We were lucky enough to experience this wonderland from the air on a once-in-a-lifetime balloon safari… definitely something for every safari lover’s bucket list. For a sneak peek of the magic that awaits click here: 

Whatever has drawn you to this magical place – witnessing the Great Migration, seeing all of the Big Five or taking out some R&R time with your significant other – it is always a good time to visit. 

Despite the distinct dry and wet season, the weather is pleasant throughout the year. The high (dry) season runs from January to March and June to October. From January to March you can expect to experience the Great Migration and June to October provides good weather conditions for spotting wildlife. The dry season has clear blue skies and is the perfect time to add a beach destination to your itinerary.

The highlight of your trip during this time of year will be spotting almost 1.7 million wildebeest and other game traversing in search of new grazing grounds. The sheer sound of the migratory animals will leave you speechless. Around February, the wildebeest give birth and then move towards the Grumeti River and cross the Mara River by July. 

During the low season, the wildebeest will have reached the Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya. 

The low (wet) season is a good time to visit if you are looking forward to a bush spa experience. The rainy season expects fewer visitors, offering guests a quiet and private time in the wilderness. The wet season doesn’t mean day-long rain. With short periods of heavy downpours, there is still enough time for game drives and time to relax on the deck and spot wildlife in the distance. Temperatures can reach 27℃. 

What animals can you see in the Serengeti?

  • Lions
  • Buffalo
  • Giraffes
  • Leopards
  • Rhinos
  • Hippos
  • Zebras
  • Elephants 

Top activities in the Serengeti:

  • Visit a Maasai village 
  • Experience a night game drive 
  • Get an aerial view of the Serengeti 
  • Witness the Great Migration 
  • Visit the paleoanthropological Olduvai Gorge site 

There are a number of ways to reach the Serengeti National Park – by plane and car. One of the recommended routes is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and take an 8-hour drive to the park or alternatively transfer by plane to Arusha Airport and then fly to one of the smaller airstrips inside the park. 

From the incredible natural events that take place in the park to the wildebeests’ departure and arrival back in their breeding grounds, Serengeti has something magical on show all year round. And if you’re struggling to spot the rare black rhino or the elusive black leopard, you can always book yourself a much-deserved spa treatment and overlook the rolling plains after with a G&T in hand after.

How to Spot a Cheetah and Where to Find Them

Posted on by Lexi Hall

A cheetah and a leopard are two completely different big cats. Both are magnificent sightings that contribute to the allure of the African wild, but spotting the difference can sometimes prove challenging for first-time safari-goers. We’ve put together some distinct features and characteristics to make identifying cheetahs easier on your next game drive. 

You will find cheetahs hunting during the day, rather than at night. 

Cheetahs have a distinct coat of fur with solid black, round or oval spots.

Cheetahs have a black ‘tear line’ running from the corner of the eye to the mouth.

You will find cheetahs in the grassy plains with their prey rather than up trees as they don’t have retractable claws needed to climb.

Cheetahs are the world’s fastest animal and hunt using speed over short distances, rather than furtiveness. 

Cheetahs have smaller teeth and cannot chew through large bones. Their smaller jaw allows for a bigger nasal cavity so that they can breathe faster. 

Cheetahs are more sociable than leopards. 

Cheetahs are lighter, taller and more slender than leopards. 

The most intoxicating feeling will be when you see a big cat hiding amongst the tall grass, moving with a graceful and sophisticated aesthetic – and you’ll be able to tell if it’s a cheetah or leopard through the camouflage vegetation (like a pro). 

Here are our top five destinations to spot cheetahs in the wild:

Liuwa Plains National Park 

This well-kept secret is found in a remote corner of Zambia. This park is home to a plethora of wildlife species, including large predators such as cheetahs.

Stay at King Lewanika

The Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is situated in the south of Kenya and is one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations. While the Great Migration occurs annually, the predator game viewing is extraordinary year-round.

Serengeti National Park

Next to the Masai Mara, is Tanzania’s famous Serengeti National Park – a wonderful destination to look for cheetahs. They are in abundance during the migration, as they lurk, looking for their next meal. Despite their rarity, the Serengeti’s open plains make it the ideal terrain to spot them among the sparse grass.

The Kalahari 

The Kalahari is one of the best places to see cheetahs in Southern Africa as the landscape is flat, making it easier to spot cheetahs in the grass. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is also remote making game-viewing more exclusive. 

The Kruger National Park 

The Kruger National Park has around 200 cheetahs in the park. This number is not very high compared to other countries and parks, but your chances of spotting a cheetah whilst on safari here are pretty decent. 

Cheetahs are one of nature’s most beautiful, yet endangered cats. With less than 10 000 cheetahs recorded in the wild, sighting one of these big cats is definitely a bucket-list moment. 

10 Quick Tips on Wildlife Photo Editing

Posted on by Lexi Hall

We had a chat to James Tyrrell, friend of Iconic Africa, ranger at Londolozi and budding wildlife photographer who took us through 10 quick tips on editing wildlife pictures.

Let’s not over complicate things… the objective here is simple! You want to recreate exactly what was in front of you at the time you pressed the shutter button so here are some helpful tips on how to do this:

  1. Lightroom is great for photo editing and is generally quicker and simpler than Photoshop
  2. When post-processing wildlife photographs the key is to keep as natural a look to the picture as possible.
  3. The best photos always tell a good story (this is ultimately what you want your photos to do!)
  4. Increasing vibrance and saturation a touch are generally a must when editing RAW images, but one has to be careful not to overdo it.
  5. With elephant or rhino, the detail in their skin is a wonderful thing to try and emphasize in a photo, so it’s often good to up the sharpness and clarity a little.
  6. Try to get your subject (animal) to pop a little more, which you can do by sharpening or lightening the subject slightly.
  7. When taking a full-body image of an animal try not to cut off the feet, tail, the horns or any other part of the body!
  8. In photos of big cats, whiskers are generally where you want to check if the image is sharp enough or not.
  9. With action photos, let the action speak for itself as any over-editing will detract from what’s happening.
  10. With evening pictures you want to keep colours as natural as possible while still emphasizing the warm glow of the sunset.

We hope these tips help even just a little! For a very basic introduction to Lightroom have a look at this easy-to-follow tutorial done by Londolozi.