The Joy and Nostalgia of Africa

How can I explain my excitement as I board Delta Flight 200? A 16-hour journey, routine and mundane as a regular work trip?
But excitement surges through me because I’m heading “home.” I’m wrapped in a sense of joy as I “insert the metal tip into the buckle until it clicks, then pull on the strap to tighten.”
I’m buckled in and ready to ride!

A unique twist fuels my excitement for this trip, too: I am traveling with one of my closest friends – a new empty-nester – to introduce her to the wonders of Botswana. I can already imagine her excitement seeing one of the planet’s most incredible wilderness areas; from the jaw-dropping Kalahari Desert to the dazzling water worlds of the Okavango Delta and Chobe River. I anticipate her awe, her appreciation for the natural beauty, and her giddy reaction to her close interaction with nature.

Our South African journey begins at the Saxon in Johannesburg – a delightful two-night stay in the very place where the legendary Nelson Mandela wrote his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom. The Saxon’s rich history traces back to an insurance magnate who hosted Mandela during his work. With exceptional service and a stunning spa, the Saxon is a beautiful urban retreat set amidst lush gardens in the heart of Johannesburg. We reconnected with family and friends in a setting filled with contemporary African art, broad bay windows, six acres of gardens, a koi pond, and a heated pool. Our rooms, classic but modern with pleasing neutral but warm aesthetics, provide a perfect retreat.

We depart from our oasis to a chic yet unpretentious safari camp, Mokete, found east of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Nestled in a previously uncharted area – at last uncharted to the traditional safari industry – the Mokete area consists of a wild assortment of seasonal floodplains, arid grasslands, and towering mopane woodlands. Here is a glimpse of wild Botswana at its finest, boasting incredibly high populations of lions, elephants, and buffalo competing for resources. And, the best part? Mokete’s 193-square-mile concession is exclusive to its guests, ensuring intimate, breathtaking wildlife encounters.

After landing in Maun from Johannesburg, we took a thrilling helicopter ride that provided an eagle-eye view of the Okavango Delta as we soared for 45 minutes north-east to Mokete. The camp was simply teeming with wildlife, leaving me in awe of the sheer vastness and abundance we experienced in just a couple of days. We witnessed herds of over 4,000 buffalo thundering through clouds of dust, lions hunting them daily, and a variety of other majestic animals roaming the landscape. It was an unforgettable experience that left me speechless. Elephants were drinking out of my pool and hyenas were whooping the night away form close to my room. Scops owls called all evening, filling the still air with their soft trilling.

Our next stop? North Island, Okavango; one of the newest and most exclusive luxury safari camps in the Okavango Delta.
This stunning camp is situated on a private island in a beautiful and wildlife-rich part of the Delta, nestled amidst a network of shimmering lagoons and water channels. This lavish base provides a wide range of safari experiences. There, I witnessed an incredible array of wildlife—from basking hippos and wading elephants to swooping fish eagles. I was particularly excited to spot rare species like the Pel’s fishing owl and wild dogs, not to mention the iconic lions and leopards that the region is famous for.
North Island truly offers unforgettable encounters! We spent two exhilarating days exploring the reef-lined waterways by mokoro (traditional canoe) and speedboat and joined game drives to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

The African continent is not just my home; it houses extraordinary destinations that offer a rich tapestry of culture and abundant wildlife where connection flourishes: the vast plains convey a sense of freedom, space, and tranquility while the spirit of the people infuses life into the land. Their vibrant energy wraps you in warmth and joy. What a wonderful environment in which to share a holiday with loved ones and close friends, laughing and bonding around crackling African bushfires, relishing blood-red sunsets, and gazing into a brilliantly sparkling night sky.

As the stunning sunset casts its glow on our last night of safari, I sit aside my friend and reflect on the many changes that have recently occurred—my son starting to drive and the kids heading off to college.

“Time really can fly, can’t it?” she whispers to me.

One moment feels overflowing with possibilities, and before we know it, we are left pondering where it all went and how fast.

I’ve been contemplating this a lot lately, realizing that it serves as a poignant reminder of how fleeting yet significant those moments can be. Here, we are anchored in what truly matters and shaping the narratives we leave behind.

Africa has a unique way of solidifying memories, memories that linger and resonate far deeper than just a simple moment or image. Like my friend, join me on a journey where the magical experiences encourage indelible memories and connections that will thrive long past the 16-hour return flight.

 

Shipwreck Lodge: Unfettered Wilderness

The Skeleton Coast National Park is officially the least visited of all of Namibia’s parks. If it is true, unadulterated wilderness you ejoy, then this is the place to find it.
Shipwreck Lodge is located in the Skeleton Coast Central Concession Area, a critically important piece of land for protecting vulnerable wildlife species. The lodge is a joint venture between Natural Selection and local Namibian companies Trip Travel and Journeys Namibia, as well as the local communities that border the park. The future of African conservation lies firmly in fostering community involvement, and Shipwreck Lodge epitomises such an approach.

Uniquely designed around the enigmatic shipwrecks that line the coast, there’s nowhere on the continent quite like Shipwreck Lodge, which is certainly Iconic Africa’s pick of top lodge from which to explore this part of the world.
In fact, there’s nowhere on the continent quite like the Skeleton Coast. It’s a raw, rugged and impossibly remote slice of African wilderness, where towering dunes and wind-swept plains roll as far as the eye can see, buffeted by the icy Atlantic ocean.

But there’s much more to the area than just the isolation factor. Go on game drive in search of desert-dwelling fauna like oryx, springbok, desert-adapted lion and elephants; discover the enchanting desert flora (succulents and lichens); sit atop the dunes as the sun sinks below the horizon; spend the day beach-combing for whale bones and debris from centuries of shipwrecks; and marvel at the geologically-remarkable Clay Castles. This is truly a unique environment!

The words ‘eerie’ and ‘mysterious’ are often bandied around when it comes to describing Africa’s most interesting locations, but the Skeleton Coast has to be one place that truly deserves the metaphors. Shrouded in mist, the jaw-droppingly beautiful National Park begins at the Ugab River and runs roughly 500 kilometres up the Atlantic Coast to the Kunene River, which forms the border between Namibia and Angola for a few hundred kilometres inland.. Described by the San Bushmen as ‘the Land God Made in Anger’, the beaches are strewn with bleached whale bones and the wrecks of over a thousand ships, and the interior is an uninhabited desert of rolling, endless sand. But it’s magical and hauntingly picturesque, and, in our books, that makes it an absolute must-see.

Shipwreck Lodge itself is located in an unrivalled spot in the Skeleton Coast Central Concession Area, a piece of land between the Hoarusib and Hoanib rivers. The lodge is within the Skeleton Coast National Park and roughly 45 kilometres from Mowe Bay. The area contains irreplaceable and vulnerable wildlife habitat for species of the highest conservation importance, including elephant and the elusive brown hyena. Importantly, it also hosts the only other viable lion population in Namibia outside of Etosha National Park.

The Skeleton Coast is an area known primarily for its extraordinary landscapes and wide open vistas. Wildlife is not densely populated in this arid environment, so when do you spot something, it’s that much more special. Giraffes, mountain zebras, brown hyenas… creatures that just seem to belong and some that seem totally incongruous with this part of the world. Plants and insects survive from the moisture of the cold fog that drifts inland from the ocean, and the ocean itself is brimming with life. The nutrient-rich Atlantic supports a huge population of Cape fur seals, whose colonies dot the shoreline. Birdlife here features a number of special endemics, so make sure your binoculars are packed…

The lodge itself features ten rooms; 8 as twins or doubles and two family rooms. Each features an en suite bathrooms with indoor showers, and hairdryers are available on request. Charging facilities, a laundry service, and all the mod cons one would expect from a quality operation are found here, including wifi in the main area.

The Skeleton Coast stays relatively cool throughout the year, governed by the cool temperatures of the Atlantic, more specifically the Benguela current that comes sweeping up the coast from Antarctica, but venture away from the coast and temperatures can change just like that, going from freezing to boiling in a very short space of time. Always pack a jersey when heading on an excursion!

If you enjoy solitude, deep relaxation and the complete absence of time pressure, then Shipwreck Lodge is the place for you. The lunar landscapes will leave you both breathless and enchanted, and when it comes time to leave, it’ll feel like you’ve been there for both a day and two weeks.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about this unique destination, and the Skeleton Coast in general…

Sala’s Camp: Prime Migration Viewing

Sala’s Camp first hosted guests in 2004 and has become renowned for delivering an authentic Masai Mara safari experience with exceptional personalised service and fine dining.
Seamlessly combining a traditional ‘under canvas’ safari experience with contemporary comfort, including private plunge pools and glass fronted tents, Sala’s Camp offers an unforgettable and magical Mara retreat.

Owned and operated by The Safari Collection, it can be booked for the night or as part of a complete tailor-made safari. The magic of a Kenya safari doesn’t end with Sala’s Camp. The Safari Collection is the proud owner of four distinct lodges in some of Kenya’s most spectacular locations, including Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Solio Lodge in Laikipia, Sasaab in Samburu and Sala’s Camp in the Masai Mara.

Sala’s sits in one of the best locations in the whole of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Intimate and secluded, it is nestled along the tree lined banks of the Sand River in the southern tip of the reserve. One can literally look out from your room to the Tanzanian border only a kilometre or two away, with the Serengeti National Park forming the backdrop with its rolling, grass-covered hills. This also means that it is one of the first camps in the Mara to witness the annual wildebeest migration which comes pouring in from June to September each year. Major crossing points on the Mara River are only an hour’s drive away, and the Sand River itself, right on your doorstep, regularly sees herds streaming over in their thousands

With teeming wildlife year round, Sala’s game drives never disappoint. Lions in particular are plentiful in this part of the reserve, and being far from the entrance gates means that you will enjoy regular sightings all to yourself. Cook-out breakfasts and sundowners out on the savannah make for magical memories. The landscape is spectacular, the birdlife impressive and the feeling of being totally immersed in nature cannot be beaten.

Enjoy world class bird watching, spectacular star-gazing and epic sundowners on the savannah with our vintage mobile bar. When you’re not out discovering the wonderful wildlife there’s plenty to do back at camp, including nature walks and games in the Sand River when the water is low enough.

Kenya’s Masai Mara is home to one of the largest overland migrations of animals in the world. Between June and September each year, 1.5 million wildebeest, 500,000 Thompson gazelles, 200,000 zebra and thousands of other antelope cross the border into Kenya from Tanzania on their seasonal migration. Drama, dust and danger abound. Guests of Sala’s camp who are lucky enough to catch this famous spectacle are treated to one of the greatest shows on earth. Witnessing the Great Migration is a real bonus to an already mind-blowing Masai Mara safari experience. Searching for greener pastures, exact movements of the wildebeest herds change each year. As they enter into Kenya however, crossing the Mara River is one path they cannot avoid. Famous for providing documentary-worthy footage, river crossings are a tense spectacle. Predators lurk and the journey is treacherous. Be sure to have your camera at the ready as you never know what might happen.

The word ‘Mara’ comes from the Maa word for ‘spotted’ (Maa being the official language of the Maasai people). The name comes from the spotted appearance of the land from above, as it is all dotted with Acacia and Ballanites trees. The professionally trained Maasai guides at Sala’s Camp are passionate and knowledgeable about all the animals, plants and trees you will encounter on safari and offer fascinating insights into the ecosystem as well as their traditional culture.

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At Sala’s you will feel like you have the great plains of the Maasai Mara all to yourself, a rare thing in a conservation space which of late has started to gain the reputation for crowds.
This almost untouched part of Kenya will provide almost everything you could want on an East African safari.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about Sala’s Camp, the Safari Collection, and the endless plains of the Maasai Mara and Serengeti in general…

King’s Pool: A River Runs Through It

Named after Swedish King Carl Gustav XVI, who honeymooned in the Linyanti in the 1970s, King’s Pool sits on a stunning Oxbow lagoon off the Linyanti River in northern Botswana. The area is pristine and remote and particularly known for its impressive elephant and predator numbers. King’s Pool Camp was treated to a major renovation in the first half of 2019 and offers both water and land activities (water-level dependent).

The camp has always had a traditional and elegant style. The level of luxury has increased with every refurbishment but the camp has still retained is the classic safari design and feel.

 
 

The traditional thatching allows the camp to blend seamlessly with the beauty of its surroundings. Huge Jackalberry trees overhang the rooms and lagoon, providing a haven for birds to feed in the branches, and providing shade for antelope and – particularly in the dry season – small herds of elephants that come down to the water to quench their thirst.
The décor takes inspiration from the patterns and restful colours of the local craft of basket-weaving and the dining area’s walls are covered in striking screens with a basketry-influenced black and white graphic. Teal blue and copper tones provide accents of colour and the rebuild has re-employed materials from the old camp, in wooden flooring and reclaimed doors.

The rooms are a blend of stretch canvas walls, set on raised wooden decking. Inside, large four poster beds make for a comfortable night’s sleep after the day’s safari activities, en suite bathrooms with double basins, indoor and outdoor showers make sure you always feel clean and fresh. A ‘mini gym’ of weights and yoga mat is provided.

The main area at King’s Pool Camp is a large open-sided structure that flows out onto viewing decks. The location brings frequent sighting of elephants crossing the Linyanti River, whilst hippos lounge in the shallows and impala and the shy bushbuck feed on shoots and leaves down near the water. The communal areas are extremely well presented with the same earthy colour palette and leather and metal furnishings. There is an infinity pool, library and bar which enjoy beautiful views over the lagoon.

 

The wildlife experience in the Linyanti concession is fantastic; particularly during the dry season from June to October when water resources are limited and everything flocks to the river to drink. This is a mainly land-focused camp although barge trips are available on a fantastic double storey barge when water levels permit (mainly April to August). Buffalo herds can number into the thousands and at its peak the Linyanti Reserve offers some of the best plains game viewing in existence. Leopards slink through the riparian vegetation and the alarm chatter of monkeys is a common indicator of where the spotted cats are moving.
The area falls right in the middle of KAZA (Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) which boasts the largest elephant population in Africa, so you are guaranteed to enjoy many sightings of these magnificent pachyderms.

The underground hide at a small pan only a few minutes drive from camp is an absolute must! During the height of the dry season you can enjoy an almost constant stream of wildlife coming to drink during the heat of the day, including rarer antelope species like Roan and Sable. Seeing an elephant’s trunk and legs within touching distance is an experience of a lifetime and this chance to get up close is particularly exciting from a photography perspective

The Linyanti Concession as a whole (which King’s Pool enjoys full access to) is not just limited to the river front. Guests also have the opportunity to venture down towards the famous Savuti Channel, well-known for its lion population. Exploring this waterway offers a whole new perspective on life out here on the fringes of the Kalahari.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about King’s Pool and the Linyanti region, and let’s start planning your northern Botswana circuit…

Iconic Africa Wins Another Award

We’re thrilled to announce that Iconic Africa has won yet another honour in the annual LUXLife Travel Awards, this year being announced as the 

Best Global Boutique Safari Business 2024

LUXLlife focuses on a range of topics within the luxury lifestyle industry, and with their circulation extending to almost 100 000 readers, we are incredibly excited to have achieved such recognition within this space.

The combination of the words “Global” and  “Boutique” are what we enjoyed most about the award; we feels the almost paradoxical combination sums us up accurately. We have guests who travel from all over the world to visit Africa in all her magnificence, yet we have remained a small company, not looking to expand too much, keeping true to our roots as

 

To quote their website:

“The LUXLife awards celebrate the tradition of acknowledging unparalleled achievements and exceptional creativity in the realm of luxury. These distinguished awards are their way of honouring the leaders and pioneers who redefine excellence within our industry. This section is dedicated to those who inspire with their visionary contributions and consistently set higher standards of sophistication and elegance.”

The travel and tourism industry has long been a vital part of the world economy, contributing significantly to employment, market development, and cultural exchange. Despite the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the sector has now fully recovered, bolstered by strong consumer demand, emerging technology and trends, and an eagerness to return to exploring the world. The World Travel & Tourism Council expected 2025 to be a record-breaking year, with the market’s global economic contribution set to hit an all-time high of over $11 trillion!

There are a variety of trends that are boosting performance and rapidly reshaping the travel and tourism space; more and more travellers are choosing eco-friendly options, along with lodges that dhow a genuine commitment to social upliftment and environmental consciousness.

Moreover, the blending of business and leisure travel continues to rise, with more professionals extending work trips to enjoy personal time at their destination. Digital transformation is also playing a crucial role, as innovations like contactless check-ins and AI-powered travel recommendations enhance the convenience and personalization of travel. Additionally, wellness tourism remains a strong growth area, with more travellers looking to focus on mental and physical well-being.

Iconic Africa will keep striving to remain at the forefront of the industry.

Our small team of highly experienced agents all know the continent intimately, and continue to research new destinations, experiences and trends. We want every guest’s visit to our shores to be life-changing.

Get hold of us on info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your own bucket list safari…

 

Mobile Migration Tanzania: in the Thick of Things

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

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…

San Camp: Uncovering the Desert

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

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

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?

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

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

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…

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge: Quietening the Soul

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

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.