Tag: Iconic Africa

Linkwasha: Place of Elephants (and More!)

Posted on by James

If you want to be simply blown away by a seemingly endless procession of elephants, Linkwasha in the dry season is for you.

Literally thousands of the world’s largest land mammal are in constant movement to and from the waterholes of Zimbabwe’s Hwange national park as the last rains become a distant memory and water resources become limited. Evenings see them move into the real forests to feed in comfort, but as the sun rises and temperatures rise, it’s back to the water they go

Drinking, wallowing, mud-bathing… you name it; it’s all on display here. And just when you think there couldn’t possible be more elephants around, yet more herds emerge from the bush to join their counterparts.

Hwange is a land of waterholes. With no permanent water sources available apart from the odd natural spring (although these one or two are widely separated), something had to be done to keep animals in the National Park, so a system of pumped waterholes was established by the national parks authority, which are maintained to this day.

The permanent water that they provide help anchor the large herds within the park’s boundaries and help mitigate against the inevitable human-wildlife conflict that would occur should elephants in particular start moving further afield to find a drink. 

This interconnected system of waterholes ensures that the game-viewing in Hwange National Park is exceptional, particularly in the dry season.

In the park’s south east is the exclusive Wilderness Concession, upon which four camps sit; Linkwasha, Davison’s Makololo Plains and Little Makololo.

All are amazing, all come with an attending waterhole out front and all are almost certain to provide an incredible experience.

    

Linkwasha, the most south-eastern of the camps, is the high-end offering. Offering slightly larger rooms and some amenities that aren’t found elsewhere, Linkwasha also lies closer to Ngamo Plains, the easternmost section of the park that offers unbeatable photographic opportunities, particularly for the big cats. The resident Ngamo pride is a mainstay of predator viewing down here, and cheetahs put in a regular appearance. And of course the waterholes attract the elephants!

The camp itself features nine deluxe tents, all widely spaced and facing outwards onto an open plain to maximise the wildlife viewing. Aiconditioning units keep the interiors nice and cool during the heat of the day, but during cooler times of the year one can lounge on your couch or deck with the screen doors open, enjoying the traipsing of the local fauna to and from the camp’s waterhole.

Just as one returns from morning game drive is when the first elephants are starting to move towards the water. The underground viewing hide at the water’s edge provides an amazing spot for close-up, low-angle photographs of everything from elephants to baboons to martial eagles that come to quench their thirst. Equipped with beanbags, comfy stools and it’s own refrigerator, it’s a wonderful option to consider instead of a game drive for an afternoon – you are almost sure to get visitors, and unique shots you wouldn’t have been able to get otherwise.

Hwange is not just about the dry season however. Well-drained Kalahari sands mean the area is navigable during the wetter summer. Migrant birds are everywhere, the bush is teeming with new life, and the verdant greens brought on by the rains indicate a world in full bloom!

All areas of the exclusive Wilderness concession are accessible from all the Wilderness camps, as well as parts of the park beyond the concession itself, so you won’t lack for options of places to explore.

Hwange is one of Zimbabwe’s flagship national parks, and it is a reputation richly deserved. 

Be sure to get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about the camp options in this unique and flourishing ecosystem…

&Beyond Tengile: Beyond Sensational

Posted on by James

The Sabi Sands is renowned as being one of the best wildlife destinations in the Africa. The Big 5 and many more abound here, and the reserve has officially been established by the Panthera Organisation as having the densest population yet recorded anywhere in the world.

The reserve gets its name from the two major rivers that flow through the park – the Sabi and the Sand – and river frontage plays a major role in determine how good the game viewing is likely to be; the dry season in particular draws an abundance of wildlife to the water.

The Sand River flows right through the heart of the reserve, and in a prominent bend in the river’s southern reaches, one finds one of the newer camps in this wildlife heaven – &Beyond Tengile.

An extension of the original Kirkman’s Kamp (named after Harry Kirkman – the reserve’s first warden) Tengile overlooks a beautiful open stretch of Sand River that almost always seems to have a breeding herd of elephants traipsing across it. Leopards skulk through the reedbeds and along the banks, their presence often being betrayed by the warning bark of a bushbuck, and the eerie wail of a hyena is regularly heard through the hours of darkness.

Wildlife viewing here is simply superb, and the fact that &Beyond boasts one of the finest ranger training schools on the continent means that your guides will be some of Africa’s finest.

This magnificent lodge features nine large, air-conditioned, intimate suites, secreted in the dappled shade of the riparian woodland, each with broad Sand River views. In addition to a master bedroom, bathroom and outdoor shower, there is a lounge, dining area, fully-stocked bar, coffee station and outdoor seating and dining area that are quite simply sensational.
A private lap pool on your spacious deck comes complete with sunken outdoor lounge looking out onto the wilderness.
For families, two of the lodge’s suites are joined by a covered walkway to create an extended family suite.

The lodge’s guest area offers a mixed selection of open, interactive and private places. The viewing deck is a wonderful addition and the library is a treasury of fascinating curated objects and interesting books. Bespoke furniture, lights and unique décor pieces have been created from skilled local artists and striking fabrics have been masterfully hand-painted. A massage and gym area offers guests a space of well-being and tranquillity and a Safari Shop is stocked with beautiful handcrafted item.

Tengile really is a jewel in the &Beyond crown; get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out about rates and availability in this bushveld paradise…

Iconic Africa’ Team Bucket Lists: Jess Craig

Posted on by James

Jess Craig recently joined the Iconic Africa sales team. Her love of the bush started when she was tiny, and she has been visiting the South African Lowveld since before she could walk. A career in hospitality in some of the finest lodges in Southern Africa have made her a true connoisseur of the guest experience, so when she handpicks a lodge for our clients, they can be sure it’s something pretty special.

Here are a few of her favourites…

Each of these 3 properties has a piece of my heart.  Apart from being incredible in terms of the experiences they offer and their magnificent locations, they have all played a significant role in the journey and direction of my life.

Phinda Forest Lodge

It is here that I met the love of my life. While working as the Hospitality Manager at Phinda Forest Lodge, my husband walked into my life and it has been one of my greatest gifts. The Sand Forest will forever be the guardian of my greatest love story.

Dulini Moya

Dulini was the catalyst that sparked my career in hospitality.  It was the first safari lodge I ever worked at, and it was certainly not the last.  It led to 12 years of managing some of the most beautiful and unique camps throughout South Africa. I will be eternally grateful to Dulini Moya for igniting this passion in me.

Londolozi Founders Camp

On the afternoon of my 27th birthday, while working at Founders Camp, I was mistakenly left out in the wild. It was this extraordinary experience that enticed me to become a safari guide: one of the most rewarding decisions of my career.

My 3 bucket-list properties that I hope to visit some day:

Pel’s Post

For my unwavering love of elephants and Baobab Trees.

Tswalu Tarkuni

With my family – for endless horizons, aardvarks, ochre sand, star-studded skies and family togetherness

Wilderness Damaraland

For untamed wilderness, desert elephants by moonlight and ancient geology…

The Mara Conservancies: a Conservation Framework

Posted on by James

It might seem strange to head out on game drive, spend some time viewing a lion pride sleeping int he shade, then drive round the corner and bump into a Maasai herdsman out walking with his cattle.
Yet that is the reality in much of rural Africa – the co-existence of wildlife and people. And if it is to be a peaceful and productive one, conservancies are an excellent way to maintain it.

The last thirty years in Africa have seen the evolution of the conservancy concept, which has spread fast.
Conservancies in Kenya in particular are regarded as a way of involving local communities with wildlife conservation. The purpose of a conservancy is not the same as a nationally protected reserve like a park, and they do not replace these area, instead they complement them.

Conservancies provide a range of local values, including clarifying and firming up local land tenure over pasture and grazing areas, improving security – both for wildlife and land-owners – through networks of community scouts and communications infrastructure and law enforcement bodies, and “providing a legal structure for communities to enter into third-party joint ventures with tourism investors in order to generate revenue from wildlife”.

Conservancies in Kenya are represented by Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association “who work with landowners and communities to sustainably conserve and manage wildlife and their habitat outside formal protected areas to perpetuate Kenya’s heritage.”

Whereas historically wildlife has been seen as a nuisance by both pastoralists and farmers (livestock gets killed by predators and elephants raid crops), and the establishment of restricted wildlife areas as prohibiting access to good grazing grounds, the establishment of conservancies essentially sees local landowners and local communities benefitting from tourism dollars whilst still maintaining many land-use rights, and ultimately coming to see wildlife as a positive.

Kicheche Wildlife Camps, who operate in three conservancies that border the Maasai Mara (Naboisho, Olare Matorogi and Mara North) have this to say about their trust in the conservcancy system:

Keeping with the commitment of The Long Run’s 4Cs – Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce – we collaborate with the local community via the Kicheche Community Trust to support traditional and sustainable ways of living that are in harmony with wildlife and the environment.

All guest donations and bednight contributions to the Kicheche Community Trust are channelled into projects impacting its conservancy communities. These then have a significant impact on women’s empowerment in particular.  The Trust’s efforts and passion evolve around four pillars: Education, Health and Family Care Community Empowerment, Environment and Conservation.

With an ever expanding number of conservancies across Kenya that provide safe havens for wildlife as well as invaluable corridors for its free movement between established protected areas, the system seems to be the way forward in areas where it can be implemented…

 

 

 

Londolozi: Unveiling the NEW Founders Camp

Posted on by James

Over the years the ripple effect created by Londolozi’s alumni has spread their ethos far and wide across the African continent, and beyond.
Some are heading up their own portfolio of lodges. Others have been put in charge of the full scope of Kruger National Park anti-poaching units. World-authorities on the Okavango Delta, internationally lauded motivational speakers, heads of lodge design in some of the largest groups on the continent… you name it.
Londolozi Alumni have done it and are still doing it.

Founders Camp honours these wild, early characters – past staff and guests who have contributed to building Londolozi. It is their efforts that have distilled the legacy of the past 50 years into the creation of the essence of safari spirit.

At Founders Camp, classic meets modern. This Londolozi signature camp is clean and uncomplicated and really comfortable, leaving nothing forgotten. You will get the feeling of all the comforts of a stylish African home that is ideally situated to provide an insider’s view of the secrets of river life. Classy, grounded and timeless – Londolozi’s Founders Camp represents a safari style that is inviting and restful.

Reminiscent of the ancient ‘wattle and daub’ methodology of building, this earthy design celebrates the natural raw elements of nature. Rock, fire, wood and earth.

Ten bespoke and varied superior chalets repose in the shade of ancient Ebony and Matumi trees along the banks of the Sand River. Spacious and light, they flow seamlessly from interior to beautiful wooded deck space…

Founders Camp is about simple sophistication with clean lines. The simplicity of layered textures creates depth and a sensory experience wherever you go. This fusion of elemental design is completely soothing to the nervous system, allowing for deep rest and relaxation.

Muted and calming within yet vibrant and alive, with connection to the wilderness, without.
Those who have sat around the boma fire at night and listened to the call of the hyenas out there beyond the fire’s glow, or gazed down in awe at a herd of elephants feeding below the deck, barely more than an arm’s length away, will understand.

Founders has always been one of our favourite camps, and with its latest refurbishment, it just got a whole lot better.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your Londolozi safari…

Bush Legends Dinner for Endangered Wildlife Trust

Posted on by James

July 20th saw an incredible fund-raising event take place at Katy’s Palace in Johannesburg, South Africa.

In honour of their tenth anniversary, the Jocks of the Bushveld – a bush-loving group of friends – hosted a dinner in collaboration with the Endangered Wildlife Trust – who were celebrating their 50th anniversary – to raise money for the EWT and the work that they do.

The dinner featured a number of Bush Legends, for once dressed up in black tie instead of khaki, who shared their stories and strategies for protecting Africa’s natural history and wildlife heritage.

180 people attended, with tickets sales contributing significantly towards the money being raised, as well as an auction of prizes donated by various lodges, travel companies (including Iconic Africa) and wildlife photographers.

A total of R800 000 (around $43 000) was raised over the course of the evening.

The real power of evenings like this however, lies in their ability to connect people. Those from outside the conservation circles have the power to affect massive change by donating their expertise and experience to a rapidly-changing world in which technology, education and leadership are what will be saving Africa’s wild spaces. It is no longer enough to simply be passionate about the preservation of wilderness areas; if one does not have the financial clout and the links to those who can see the bigger picture from a different perspective, the same problems will refuse to be solved.

Brett Horley, Founder of Brett Horley Safaris and the safari guide who has hosted the Jocks of the Bushveld on many a sojourn into Africa’s wildernesses – had this to say at the end of his speech:

“We need solutions, we need to support those on the frontline who do the actual protecting in the middle of the day and the middle of the night. The field rangers putting their lives on the frontline; the regional and section rangers; the organisations helping and assisting; EWT, GKEPF, SAWC – we need collaboration, we need passion, and we need leadership. We need evenings like this to help, to inspire, to remind, and to instil in us the desire to take action. That is how we got here, and that is why we are here.”

A huge thank you to all those who helped organise and host the event, and especially to those who contributed so generously towards the funds being raised.

Iconic Africa is incredibly proud to have been involved in such an initiative, and to have played our own small role in making the evening the success it was.

If anyone would like to donate to the EWT and further their cause in Africa, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com…

A Rising Tide: Extraordinary Zambia

Posted on by James

As Zambia continues to rise swiftly to prominence in the African safari scene, boasting some stunning beautiful and game-filled safari destinations, one group of lodges keeps emerging as a centre of consistent excellence across their portfolio of camps.

Time & Tide’s conservation heritage dates back to 1950, when Norman Carr set up Zambia’s first game viewing camp in cooperation with Paramount Chief Nsefu of the Kunda Tribes.
Today, the company maintains his legacy, working with local communities to protect and share rare and unique places in all their natural beauty.
Aside from Miavana – a simply mind-blowing destination on Madagascar, which we will be featuring soon – Time & Tide’s lodges are essentially focused in Zambia, and more specifically in three areas; the Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa and Liuwa Plains National Parks.

With a broad spectrum of destinations on offer, there are too many to fit into one short post, so we thought we’d give a brief summary of each area with their T&T options, and go into a bit more detail at a later date.

South Luangwa

Very few places in Africa can offer the unique combination of South Luangwa National Park’s open, grassy plains and mature, mesmerizing woodlands, crowned with the pristine, impressive Luangwa River. This area’s reputation for abundant wildlife and unspoiled vegetation is well earned, so whether driving around or walking through, the intense beauty calls to you from every corner.

South Luangwa National Park is the highlight of eastern Zambia. Known to locals as simply ‘the South Park,’ it was initially founded as the Luangwa Game Park in 1904, and converted to one of three game reserves in 1938. The impressive park covers an area of about 9050 square kilometers of the Luangwa Valley floor, and lies anywhere from 500 meter to 800 meter above sea level. With its western and northwestern edge bounded by the Muchinga Escarpment, and the southern border lined with the meandering Luangwa River, there’s no shortage of dramatic and fascinating topography in this stunning game-rich park.

Time & Tide boast 5 different camps in the South Luangwa National Park: Chinzombo, Mchenja, Kakuli, Nsolo and Luwi.

The latter two are more centrally located in the park, carefully secreted along the ephemeral Luwi River system – a hotbed of elephant activity, particularly in the dry season.
Mchenja, Kakuli and Chinzombo all front onto the Luangwa River itself, and the night air is filled with the sounds of hippo grunts as a result.

South Luangwa boasts one of the densest leopard populations in Africa. Its wild dog population is particularly healthy, and epecially in winter, when animals congregate around the remaining water sources, game viewing is almost unrivalled on the continent.

This is truly a special corner of this ancient land in which to safari

Lower Zambezi:

While this park is developing rapidly and gaining in popularity as the game bounces back, its beauty still lies in its unchanged wilderness state. The diversity of animals may not be quite as wide as the other big parks (there are famously no giraffes as the hilly terrain that protects the Zambezi River doesn’t suit them) but the opportunities to get close to game wandering in and out of the Zambezi channels are spectacular. It lies opposite the famous Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, so the whole area on both sides of the Zambezi River is a massive wildlife sanctuary.

The river’s edge is overhung with a thick riverine fringe, including ebony and fig trees. Further inland is a floodplain fringed with mopane forest and interspersed with winterthorn trees and huge acacias. The rolling hills, which form the backdrop to the park, are covered in broadleaf woodland.

Even though the Lower Zambezi National Park covers an area of 4 092km² / 2 542mi², most of the game is concentrated along the valley floor. There is an escarpment along the northern end that acts as a physical barrier to most of the park’s animal species. Enormous herds of elephant, some up to a hundred strong, are often seen at the river’s edge. ‘Island hopping’ buffalo and waterbuck are common. The park also hosts good populations of lion and leopard, and listen too for the ubiquitous cry of the fish eagle.

Despite its size, this section of the Zambezi is considered fairly calm and predictable, unlike the mercurial Luangwa River. For this reason, seasonal fishing, boating and canoeing are popular activities, especially guided kayaking through the channels. Look out for shy elephant along the way and magnificent flourishes of scarlet carmine bee-eaters at work on their nests in the riverbanks.

Tims & Tides lodges consist of Chongwe Camp (the main camp of eight suites), Chongwe House (a two-storey, four-bedroom, four-bathroom private house which operates exclusively), and the Cassia and Albida suites – perfect for honeymooners and couples.
All are located on the Chongwe River which forms the park’s western boundary.
Game Drives and boat cruises make up the mainstay of the wildlife viewing activities, but simply spending time at the lodge is almost guaranteed to give you your fill of wildlife – in particular elephants.

Liuwa Plains:

Liuwa Plain in western Zambia has one of the longest conservation histories in Africa, dating back to the late 19th century when the King of Barotseland appointed his people as the custodians of the reserve.

In 2008, African Parks began a series of lion reintroductions. Over a similar period, eland and buffalo were reintroduced to the park and plains game began to increase, providing a healthy prey base for the predators: lion, cheetah and hyaena.

Today, with over 10,000 people legally living within the park, Liuwa is a prime example of how people and wildlife can coexist and benefit in a shared landscape. Helping protect the land for the benefit of local people to continue accessing its natural resources sustainably is enhanced through ongoing community engagement and integration. In addition, communities are supported through socio-economic initiatives, employment and tourism revenue that is generated as Liuwa becomes a major tourist attraction. Now that the landscape is once again a source of stability and abundance, the people of Liuwa have renewed their commitment and sense of custodianship to their land.

Time + Tide King Lewanika is the only permanent camp in Liuwa Plain National Park, its six open-front luxury safari tents (including a two-bedroom, two-bathroom luxury family tent) are the essence of pure and simple luxury. Built using local techniques and sustainable materials, they run on solar power and are furnished using vintage leather, cotton and canvas—a nod to old-world safari days. Designed to completely immerse you in the vast landscape, each has an indoor and outdoor shower, a comfortable lounge and a verandah, all with stunning views over the plains.

We will be showcasing a bit more of the various camps in more detail over the next few months, but in the meantime, if you would like more information on rates and availability, and which camp would be best suited to your needs, get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning your Zambian Safari…

LuxLife Travel Awards: Five in a Row

Posted on by James

We like the concept of Small Giants. Companies that choose to be great instead of big. That’s how we feel about our boutique travel company.

For a decade now, Iconic Africa has steadily been doing what we do best; deliver outstanding trips and experiences to our guests in the luxury African travel space.
What started as an idea between a ranger and his guest has blossomed into a business that helps people’s safari dreams come true.

In 2010, while still working as a safari guide at the world-famous Londolozi Game Reserve, John Holley guided guest Terri Abadi, and the two struck up an immediate rapport.
Both had an immense passion for Africa and her wild spaces, and in chats around the campfire, John and Terri decided to start a travel business together, so in 2013 Iconic Africa was born.

Since then it has been one wild ride after another; crazy sales trips to East Africa, bouncing around after aardvarks late at night in the South African Lowveld, and becoming as well-versed as one can be with an industry that is ultimately in the business of making people happy.

The LuxLife Travel Awards –  now in their seventh year – pay homage to the experts within the industry and welcome nominations from businesses and individuals across the globe. From travel agencies, guided tour experts, food and beverage service providers, sustainable travel specialists and everything in between, the Travel and Tourism Awards recognise these prestigious companies by revealing their dedication and hard work.

Iconic Africa is proud to have scooped the top spot in a number of categories in these LuxLife awards over the last few years.

For three years in a row (2019, 2020, 2021) we were awarded the title World’s Best Custom Luxury Safari Operator.

In 2022 we were awarded Best Exclusive Luxury African Safari Experience Provider, and finally this year we were proclaimed as Best African Family Getaway Specialists.

We could not be prouder to be doing what we do. From desert to mountaintop and everywhere in between, Iconic Africa will continue to seek out the best destinations for their guests, making sure that once-in-a-lifetime trip exceeds even the wildest expectations…

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your award-winning safari…

&Beyond Bateleur Camp: Front Row to the Masai Mara

Posted on by James

The Masai Mara – in particular the Mara Triangle between the Mara River and the Oloololo Escarpment – is most famous for the Great Migration that passes through each year, around July/August, yet what many don’t realise is that the game viewing is spectacular no matter what month you visit.
The lions, elephants, buffalo and cheetahs that call the area home don’t move with the migration; they are resident, and can be found whatever the season.

Nestled in indigenous forest at the base of the escarpment sits &Beyond Bateleur Camp.

 

It is situated in the Kichwa Tembo private concession, contiguous with the Masai Mara. Meaning ‘head of the elephant’ in Kiswahili, Kichwa Tembo consists of private land leased from Maasai landlords and situated in the remote western Mara, almost exclusively explored by &Beyond guests. In addition to its the excellent year-round concentration of wildlife, Kichwa Tembo lies directly in the path of Africa’s spectacular Great Migration, and perfectly positioned to maximise the viewing of the reserve’s wildlife.

Guests can almost exclusively explore this area on a game drive or on foot, as well as enjoying access to pristine outdoor dining locations.

Comprised of just two intimate camps of nine Luxury Tents each and a Luxury Family Tent, Bateleur Camp retains a wonderful sense of intimacy; each with its own private butler and housekeeper reflecting the ambiance and glamour of Kenyan explorers of old.
Slip into a world of hardwood floors, polished silver and copper bathtubs juxtaposed against the romance of the open Mara plains, with their abundant herds of game. Beautifully handcrafted artefacts, fine antiques, leather buttoned Chesterfield sofas, books, and crystal and candlelight adorn the comfortable sitting and dining areas, making you feel like you have slipped straight into a 19th century safari.

Cooling pools in each camp provide comfort in between stimulating game drives that can be so varied in their offerings. Grasslands, riverfront or the escarpment itself all offer something different in terms of setting and species.
On the culinary side, delectable cuisine is served in memorable settings – often beneath the stars – and bush breakfasts and romantic sundowners offer an unforgettable African experience. Adventures at Bateleur Camp include twice-daily game drives, including spot-lit night drives on which some of the more elusive nocturnal creatures might be encountered. The camp also offers a range of additional activities such as bush walks, hot air balloon safaris and community excursions, and for the fitness-minded a well-equipped gym and wellness treatment centre await.

The Masai Mara is unforgettable due to the abundance of wildlife and spectacular landscapes. This is the quintessential African safari experience, where travellers can expect to encounter the Big Five and observe thrilling predator interaction.

With the Kitchwa Tembo airstrip only a few minutes drive from camp, and flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi only taking an hour, Bateleur Camp is supremely accessible, allowing guests an easy trip to the greatest wildlife show on earth.

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about &Beyond Bateleur Camp, and other East African safari offerings…

Monwana Game Lodge: Experience Exceptional

Posted on by James

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

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

Monwana Game Lodge in Thornybush Nature Reserve embodies the spirit of homecoming, and encourages a deep connection to nature.

Thornybush is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, and is unfenced from the 20 000 square kilometre wilderness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Africa: World’s Best Country to Visit

Posted on by James

It’s pretty difficult to choose one thing that stands out as brilliant about South Africa, simply because the list of things that make it exceptional is so long.

But now that the country has been crowned “Favourite Country in the World” by readers of The Telegraph we should really delve into a few things that make the Rainbow Nation a must-visit for foreigners…

Affordability

As far as value-for-money goes, South Africa is right up there. The local currency, the Rand, isn’t as strong as it was historically, so Pounds, Euros and the US Dollar go a long way here. Dinner and wine at one of the country’s top restaurants might only set you back $75, and the spectrum of accommodation options is as wide as the imagination. There’s literally something for everybody.

Wildlife

Obviously our favourite part of the equation.
South Africa is one of the world’s top game-viewing destinations, but it is by no means limited to just the Big 5. Its diversity of habitats mean a stunning array of wild creatures, so all you have to decide is what you want to see, and go there. The Kruger Park and surrounds tend to steal the show, but they are just the tip of the iceberg…

Beaches

Along its more than 2550 kilometres of coastline, South Africa has some truly stunning beaches, many, many miles of them remote and without a building in sight. From the harsh Atlantic coastline near the Namibian border round to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, there are wild experiences to be had, from watching turtles laying their eggs to surfing some of the best waves on the planet.

Scenic Splendour

South Africa really is many worlds in one. Expect stunning coastlines, dramatic mountainscapes, huge areas of untamed bushveld, starkly beautiful semi-deserts, lakes, waterfalls, spectacular canyons, forests and wide plains, plus Cape Town, undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Friendly People

The ‘Rainbow Nation’ has 11 official languages. People from all races make up a wonderful array of cultures, and visitors can expect a friendly welcome wherever they go. The hospitality of South Africans is unrivalled, whatever culture they are from.

Excellent Infrastructure

South Africa has excellent major transport networks, good tourist facilities, some of the cleanest drinking water in the world, a great banking system with numerous ATMs countrywide, good accommodation for all pockets, and mouth-watering eating options. Whether you’re a back-packer or coming in on your own private jet, there is something for you

Though South Africa sits at the far end of the continent, it is one of the most accessible of the other African countries featured in the top 20; you can fly to two South African cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town) directly from the UK and from the US, and those coming from Europe arrive free of jet-lag due to a near-identical time-zone.
Your reward for 12 hours in the air is a place of true beauty – Cape Town a supermodel at the foot of Table Mountain, the Garden Route a ribbon of road-trip nirvana, the wineries of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch crafting fine vintages, the landscape thrilling to the peaks and troughs of the Drakensberg range and Motlatse Canyon, Kruger National Park a roaring wildlife zone.

This coronation has been coming.  South Africa was third in this poll in 2017, second in 2018, and now it’s top of the pops.

With Namibia, Botswana and Kenya all featuring in the top 20 Favourite Countries in the World (16th, 10th and 7th respectively), it’s clear that the readers of The Telegraph love the rest of Africa too.

All those countries feature on bespoke itineraries we have created for our guests, so if African Travel is what you’re after get in touch with one of our sales representatives through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning your trip of a lifetime…

 

 

4 Reasons to Get Off the Beaten Track

Posted on by James

Africa’s photographic safari scene is by now well-established.

Areas like Kenya’s Maasai Mara or South Africa’s Sabi Sands have over 60 years of experience in crafting the ideal safari for their guests, making subtle tweaks depending on their visitors’ nationality, ages, preferences, safari history etc., and you are bound to get an absolutely mind-blowing, world-class nature immersion as a result. 

Yet over the last decade or so, a few off-the-beaten track gems have started popping up on our radar (read about a few of them here), and knowing what we do about how much incredibly positive feedback some of our travellers have sent us about their stays in such lodges, we thought we’d fill you in on a few reasons why it’s sometimes the smaller, hidden-away places that really set your soul on fire.

Here then, are four very good reasons why the lesser known spots should sit high on your next-want-to-visit lists:

  1. Lower Vehicle Density

The established places are where everyone wants to go. Sure, there’s a reason – usually that the game viewing is exceptional – but hand in hand with that you will sometimes find things like vehicle pressure, blaring radios and evidence of man starting to intrude into what should essentially be a wilderness experience. 

By looking slightly further afield to the lesser well known areas, you stand a much greater chance of enjoying sightings to yourself, enjoying them for far longer, and getting a sense of exclusivity that you didn’t pay a premium for.

Which brings us to Point #2:

 2. Lower Costs

Safari can be expensive, there’s no denying it, particularly in the luxury lodges in the high-impact game-viewing areas. 

Yet if one chooses carefully, you can often see just as much without breaking the bank to have to do so.
There are plenty of game reserves in Africa – like Ruaha National Park in Tanzania or Nxai Pan in Botswana – that can provide world-class wildlife sightings, yet because they have tended to fly under the radar, don’t charge as much as their better known cousins nearby.

 3. Variety

One will often find that the more established wildlife destinations have a formula that works. And this is all to the well and good. However, by going further afield, you are likely to encounter experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. The truly nuanced safari and adventure destinations differentiate themselves in a myriad of ways; by involving you in the uniqueness of the local culture; by giving a completely different take on what sundowner drinks should involve; boat cruises on a lake where you can cast a line to try out tiger fishing… anything is possible when you try somewhere unique…

4. Thrill of Discovery

You will likely have a fair idea of what to expect in the more documented wildlife areas of Africa. You will likely have seen pictures or seen a documentary feature or two.

Yet the secret parks feel like just that a lot of the time; well-kept secrets. Dry river beds fringed with palm trees and endless baobab forests covering rolling hills as far as the eye can see… you can find these and so much more just when you least expect them, by venturing a bit more into the unknown… You won’t have friends or family telling you exactly what it will be like based on their own experiences, instead you get to be the explorer, to break the new ground of all your contemporaries.

Don’t just book somewhere random, that’s definitely not what we’re saying.

But if you do want to truly feel that adventurous spirit, almost as if you are the first person to venture into a place, then do a bit of research (or ask us), see where the reviews say is brilliant but not a lot of people know about, and go…

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to start planning YOUR adventurous safari…

Glorious Wallowing in Victoria Falls

Posted on by James

The Wallow Lodge is found in a private game reserve, peacefully nestled in the heart of the Victoria Falls National Park.

The tented camp is set along the banks of the Masuwe River, surrounded by 4,500 acres of wilderness that stretch into the horizon, where a cloud of mist from Mosi-oa-Tunya (the local name for the Victoria Falls, meaning The Smoke That Thunders) commands the skyline.

The falls themselves are a short twenty-minute transfer from the lodge, giving guests the freedom to tailor-make their experience and find a balance between the exclusivity of the bush and the excitement of Africa’s Adventure Capital.

The Wallow Lodge embodies the authentic essence of tented accommodation, reimagined from a luxury safari perspective. Panoramic views of the Masuwe River form the backdrop of the main area, seamlessly incorporating the gentle rhythm of nature into large, open-space interiors. The furniture is earthy and sophisticated, brought to life with splashes of colour. The effect is captivating yet calming and epitomises the inherent unpredictability of Africa.

Sixteen suites are thoughtfully placed to capture the best views of the riverbed below and its surrounding wilderness. The imaginative use of canvas evokes a classic safari atmosphere, accentuated by all the modern creature comforts. Each room is raised beneath the shade of ancient riverine trees, and from this elevated vantage point, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the river from their private balcony. The décor and attention to detail strike a perfect balance between contemporary, homely touches without detracting from the surrounding bush.

The imaginative use of canvas preserves the romance of yesteryear with a classic safari atmosphere, accentuated luxurious finishing touches. Each room has an ensuite bedroom, private sitting room and viewing deck with an outdoor shower overlooking the untouched woodland savannah, creating the perfect sanctuary for guests during their stay.

There is a touch of ‘bush bohemia’ in the vibrant chitenge cushion covers, ensuring an authentic translation of local culture in the decorative theme. The attention to detail strikes a perfect balance between contemporary, homely touches without detracting from the surrounding wilderness.

The Wallow Lodge is a retreat to the simplicity and authenticity of safari life with a modern freshness about it. The beautiful open space and wild surroundings will capture a piece of you and never let go.

The Victoria Falls themselves are one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

On your guided walking tour of the falls, you will have the opportunity to discover the many facets of the magnificent Victoria Falls. Explore the rainforest while learning about the history of the Falls, its geological significance and its flora and fauna.

You’ll have the opportunity to soak up the beautiful vistas, lush surroundings, impressive gorge, and the spray of the Falls.

The Wallow Lodge is owned and operated by Wild Horizons, the largest eco-tourism operator in Victoria Falls. Behind every Wild Horizons venture is a purpose aimed at creating an enriching travel experience for their guests while conserving Africa’s wildernesses and wildlife for the local communities and future generations. Their team works tirelessly to preserve and protect the environment in every dimension of their business, sharing ecotourism’s benefits with the communities that they work alongside.

All Wild Horizons lodges are uniquely and thoughtfully designed to have their own character, but the golden thread tying them together can be seen in the signature style that emphasizes sustainability and space.

The Wild Horizons Environmental Officer monitors soil erosion and vegetation at all our properties, rehabilitating areas with indigenous trees from our nursery and eradicating harmful alien plant species. Annually, the company bring over 1000 children to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust where the kids learn about conservation, wildlife and sustainability. With the revenue generated from tourism, Wild Horizons invests in conservation and provide support for organisations like Victoria Falls Anti Poaching Unit and the Wildlife Trust.

When you travel with Wild Horizons, know that a portion of the profits pays the school fees for local children, support Old Age homes, clinics and initiatives that empower the local people.

For more information about The Wallow, Victoria Falls or Zimbabwe in general, get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning YOUR Africa trip…

Simbambili: The Heart of Leopard Country

Posted on by James

Simbambili Game Lodge is found right up in the northern part of the world-renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, a wilderness area renowned for its intense game viewing and prolific leopard sightings.

Set amongst the old Knobthorn and Jackalberry trees, Simbambili offers sophisticated safari accommodation that reflects its unspoilt landscape. The lodge overlooks a waterhole which attracts a plethora of wildlife; game drives are often delayed as guests are so unwilling to remove themselves from the spectacle in front of them.

The Simbambili lodge team are loved for their warm, friendly approach and personal attention to detail. Many have worked there for years, and one gets a real family feel upon arrival.

The lodge has seven stylish suites and each one has a private deck, plunge pool and shaded Sala bed. The large thatched suites have been elegantly designed to blend in with the environment and carefully positioned to enhance privacy.
While the shower, free-standing bath, his and her sinks and modern finishings are impressive, it’s the outside deck our guests love most.
The Honeymoon and Waterhole suites are located on the far sides of the camp’s main area and are more spacious and private for couples and newlyweds.

These romantic suites are slightly larger and come with added amenities. They have a shower, free-standing bath, his and her sinks and modern finishings as the other suites, but come with an added lounge area for more space.
The outside deck, however, is still what our honeymooners love most. The extensive bush-facing deck, with a plunge pool and shaded sala bed, is the perfect place to spend a hot afternoon in the sun.

Each suite has its own spacious riverbed-facing deck with a plunge pool and sala bed under shade to laze away a perfect afternoon. All nine spacious suites face the riverbed and woodlands and each one comes with its own private deck and plunge pool, sala bed and a free-standing bath. The Waterhole Suite overlooks the lodge’s active waterhole.

The food is fresh and delicious, and made with fresh ingredients from the Thornybush Community Garden and our local suppliers. Menus vary from à la carte dining to boma barbecues, and the staff will treat you to a leisurely bush breakfast and dinner.

At Simbambili, the highly skilled guides and trackers have an incredible wealth of bush knowledge that leaves lasting impressions on all our guests around, whether on game drives, guided bush walks or chatting round the fire at night.


This truly is wildlife viewing at its finest, and only a short flight from Johannesburg and then a lodge transfer through the reserve gets you to Simbabmbili in time for lunch.

If you want to find our more about rates and availability, get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning your safari…

Singita Faru Faru: Serengeti Delight

Posted on by James

Set in front of a busy waterhole alongside the Grumeti River in the heart of Tanzania’s Serengeti, Singita Faru Faru Lodge invites continuous connections with its breathtaking surrounds.

A relaxed approach to luxury forms a golden thread throughout this contemporary African lodge and allows guests to experience the deeply restorative power of nature. Décor & design includes airy bedroom suites, where every creature comfort is catered for with intuitive ease and oversized windows welcome the wilderness inside.

Expansive outdoor decks and multiple airy enclaves allow for intimate dining and drinks, while the café-style bar at the heart of the lodge hums with a subtle sparkle – spilling over to the pool area and firepit, and making for magical evenings under starlit skies, with satellites skimming by miles overhead.

Faru Faru is a mix of contemporary, organic style and the quirky practicality of a traditional botanist’s camp. With seven one-bedroom suites, one family suite, and one two-bedroom suite with a private pool, Faru Faru is able to cater to couples as well as large groups and families. Unlimited natural light and the rich, layered colours of the landscape flow into the living spaces and suites, captured in a pale-on-pale palette offset by hues of winter grasses and pink river clay.

Catering for every creature comfort, the relaxed luxury of Faru Faru’s large bedroom suites is subtly emphasised with cool, clean aesthetics and wide, oversized windows that open up to welcome the restorative natural surrounds inside. You’re going to love the outdoor showers and privacy offered by the thoughtful design of each accommodation. The outdoor seating area connected to each suite is also a huge bonus; it makes for the perfect space to read in between game drives.

The Singita wellness philosophy creates an environment for their urban-weary guests to reconnect to nature, revive their senses, restore their bodies and minds, and explore their African culture. The spa journey can be performed in the tranquility of the spa, out on a private deck or in the comfort of guest suites. The products used are carefully selected for the positive impact that they have on the guests and the environment

Set within Singita’s 350,000-acre private reserve in northern Tanzania, Faru Faru embodies a fresh take on African bush appeal and ushers in a new era of luxury wilderness safaris.

Singita Grumeti, situated adjacent to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, is an integral part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, the home of the Great Migration.

The reserve was created by the Tanzanian government in 1994 in order to protect the path of the annual wildebeest migration and the indigenous biodiversity of this vast and important ecosystem.

In 2002, the Grumeti Community and Wildlife Conservation Fund (now known as the Grumeti Fund), a not-for-profit organisation, was granted the right to manage and conserve these 350,000 acres, for the benefit of Tanzania, Africa and the world. Four years later, Singita took over the management of the property to enhance low impact, luxury tourism, at the request of the concessionaire.

  • Guests have the opportunity to visit the Anti-Poaching Observation Post that situated atop a hill with an incredible sunset view over the vast grassy plains below. The experience for Singita guests includes meeting the Singita Grumeti Fund game scouts and seeing how they live and work.
  • If you’re eager to get in a run, chat with the team to see if game scouts are available to accompany you on a jog in the bush…it’s truly an epic way to exercise in the Serengeti and something the Singita team is uniquely trained to execute.

   

Whilst the great migration steals the limelight in the Serengeti ecosystem, the game viewing is phenomenal year round, with prides of lions roaming the plains, leopards skulking through woodlands, and the ever-present elephant herds constantly delighting visitors with their antics.

Faru Faru is yet another amazing lodge in the Singita portfolio that we simply love sending our guests to, so readily do we trust their brand and service levels.

If you want to enquire more about availability and pricing, get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning your safari…