Tag: lux travel

Wilderness Qorokwe: Delta Action

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beach after Bush

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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

Our Top 3 choices for beach destinations would be:

Plettenberg Bay

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

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

Vilanculos & Surrounds

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

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

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

Maputaland, South Africa

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

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

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

Game Drive Essentials You Never Considered

Posted on by James

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

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

A Sense of Humour

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

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

An Enquiring Mind

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

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

Patience

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

Wet Wipes

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

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

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

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

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

(Not So) Secret Cape Town

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

trust us…

Azura Benguerra: White Sand Paradise

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sossusvlei Desert Lodge: Quietening the Soul

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Sabi Sabi Fly-In: Ultimate Big 5 Convenience

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Three packages are on offer:

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

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

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

Special Offer at No.1 African Safari Lodge

Posted on by James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Tuludi Camp – the Luxury of Space

Posted on by James

If you’ve been forever dreaming of an iconic Okavango Delta experience, then end your search with Tuludi. The camp is located in the Khwai Private Reserve, over 200,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, and the landscape is fit for a fairy tale: floodplains stretch as far as the eye can see and the glistening waterways and emerald forests attract all the stars of the safari show.

At Tuludi itself, they capture the magic of being enfolded in nature and the serenity and space that comes with it. Picture seven, tree-house style rooms, shaded by the boughs of cool leadwood trees, sophisticated interiors that mix the contemporary with the traditional, and airy spaces, dotted with intriguing maps, botanicals and treasures from around the area.
The result? An exclusive oasis that you’ll be delighted to return to after a day exploring the extraordinary ecosystem.

  • Sophisticated, intimate and with every detail attended to, Tuludi offers an iconic Delta experience in the most refined of surroundings.
  • Enjoy the space and serenity of an exclusive private reserve on the fringes of the Okavango Delta with only a handful of camps in over 200,000 hectares.
  • No day will be the same at Tuludi, and with game drives, walking safaris and fantastic water-based game viewing on offer, you’ll discover the best of the Delta.
  • Turn your safari into a real holiday and spend some time relaxing in camp. With a large swimming pool at the main area, a plunge pool at your room and a treehouse library, there are plenty of places for a spot of chill out time.
  • Be part of conservation in action: the Khwai Private Reserve is a private concession from which proceeds go straight back into the eco-tourism initiatives of the area and to the surrounding communities.

Tuludi was built to reflect the space and freedom of the surroundings and the high, pitched canvas roofs of the bedrooms create light and airy spaces to retreat to at the end of a busy day in Khwai. The fact that each tented room is a wonderful 60 square metres in size also helps!
Wooden boardwalks wind through the leadwood trees to connect the seven ‘treehouse-style’ tents and each is kept cool by the shady boughs. Inside, the earthy palette is sophisticated and warm and you’ll find separate dressing and sleeping areas, an ensuite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, and splashy bathtubs. If that wasn’t enough space to relax, there’s also a sunken seating area and a private plunge pool on the outside veranda (a further 44 sq metres of space), both overlooking those enormous floodplains.

Back at the main area, the lofty space is raised on decks and strewn with cushions, sofas and armchairs to flop into for an afternoon of view-gazing and wildlife-watching. Handily, it’s positioned in the perfect spot to watch the sunset so if you choose to stay in camp for an evening, you won’t be disappointed. Next door is the dining area and just in front is a firepit, meaning you won’t have far to wander for a post-dinner drink and campfire chatter. There’s also a large swimming pool to cool off in the heat of the day, a treehouse library, elevated four metres in the boughs of the trees, and plenty of trinkets and treasures that tell the story of both the camp and the extraordinary ecosystem.

King’s Camp – the Heart of the Timbavati

Posted on by James
Set in the northern corner of the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, adjacent and open to the Kruger National Park sits Kings Camp.

This luxury lodge offers the absolute in sophisticated safari experiences promising spectacular wildlife sightings and exceptional African hospitality. The camp boasts breathtaking views over the open savannah and onto an ever active waterhole where you can soak up the sights, sounds and ambiance of the African bush veld.

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At Kings Camp you will enjoy splendid colonial-style, luxury living, where your comfort always comes first. The camp has eight generous Colonial Suites and two magnificent Honeymoon Suites, all equipped with antique Victorian ball-and-claw baths, indoor and outdoor double showers, a well-stocked mini fridge and your own private veranda with a relaxing hammock. These colonial interiors will transport you to a bygone era as you drift away on your king size bed, draped delicately with cascading mosquito nets.

Your Kings Camp memories will most likely be built around some incredible African safari sightings. The crack of dawn welcomes a hive of activity – this is the best time for game viewing. Don’t worry, after your early morning wake-up call you will be treated with some tea, coffee and snacks before you head out on your African adventure in search of untold treasures.

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Your afternoon game drive shall leave after the heat of the day has passed and after some incredible game viewing you will pause for majestic sunset drinks and canapés. As night falls you will slowly start your return to camp and may even get the opportunity to see some of Africa’s most secretive nocturnal animals.

The Timbavati is the home to a wide variety of wildlife: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo are among the plethora of mammals on show. There is also an abundance of beautiful birdlife, interesting insects (see if you can count all of the Little Five), reptiles and amphibians. Iconic Africa recommends a guided bush walk, which is especially fascinating for those interested in the flora of the Timbavati. If these do tickle your fancy then allow your expert guide to point out the grasses and trees of the bush, even taking you through the fascinating original traditional and medicinal uses.

Kings Camp boasts a plentiful library, Wellness Centre and Spa in which you can submerge yourself and completely unwind! Or for those more active try the spacious air-conditioned gym, jump on a Helicopter flip or even arrange to fit in a quick 18 holes of golf.

Kings Camp is perfect for family and honeymooners alike! For those chasing the romance of Africa, the Honeymoon Suites have their own private pools with spectacular views and ensure uninterrupted privacy. Families can enjoy the thatched viewing deck overlooking the waterhole, take a refreshing dip in the pool, sip on a cold refreshment and relax through the heat of the day.

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For supreme exclusivity – The Waterbuck Private Camp at Kings Camp is a luxury 4-bedroom villa positioned on the banks of the dry Nhlaralumi River amongst high arching riverine trees. The private villa offers the ultimate exclusive safari retreat: with its breathtaking views, own vehicle and professional game ranger, as well as a private chef and personal butler. This villa is the crescendo in luxurious experiences and is truly fit for Kings!

Kings Camp is just over a five-hour drive from Johannesburg airport. However, Iconic Africa recommends an easy flight to Hoedspruit Airport, connecting you easily to both Johannesburg and Cape Town. Kings Camp also has its own private airstrip for guests who wish to fly directly to the camp. Your visit to Kings Camp will be perfectly complimented with a tour of the glorious Cape Winelands and cosmopolitan Cape Town, or even a voyage to a tropical Mozambican island.

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com for rates and availability…

Daunara Safari Camp: Experiential Okavango

Posted on by James

Exclusive-use is becoming more and more the thing to do in bush circles. Your very own camp in which you determine the activities, the timetable, the meal times, and everything you would do if you owned a home in the bush.

Daunara Safari Camp, one of the newest lodges in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, epitomises everything that is good about the exclusive-use option, and so much more.

Conceptualised by legendary safari guide Matt Copham, and designed and built over a two-year period, Daunara has finally opened its doors, and is redefining what “experiential” means in the broader safari context.

Set on a palm-fringed island adjoining a hippo pool in the South-east of the Delta, Daunara enjoys easy helicopter access from Maun, which is the transfer method most guests opt for. FOr the more adventurous there is a two hour road transfer available as well.

The design of the camp is elegant, contemporary, and sophisticated – distinctly African in its roots. With hand-crafted finishes in timber and canvas, it’s a home, designed with care, boasting a team who deliver sincere and charming service, deeply proud of their Botswana heritage.

Five stand-alone classic, spacious and beautifully appointed tented suites all overlook the delta, two of which are interconnected with a shared sitting room. Elepphants are pretty much daily visitors to the pool in front of the camp, and lechwe, zebras, impalas and cavorting wildebeest abound in the floodplains.
The whole camp is connected via raised wooden walkways, allowing safe movement through the day. All the tented suites are fully air-conditioned in both the bedroom and the bathroom.

Food is clean and uncomplicated with distinct flavours that celebrate the fresh produce we can get from our community garden, itself an amazing initiative based at nearby Daunara Village (from which the camp gets its name). The days and menus are unscripted, for you to enjoy meals at your own pace. Meals are paired with the finest South African wines we have personally selected.

In between game drives and exciting adventure activities, you can find time for a quick workout at the gym or a relaxing massage in our dedicated massage pavilion.

The family suite features two luxury tented suites connected by shared sitting and dining areas. Ideal for parents with younger children or close family who need to be closer together. The second room converts easily into a twin or a king-size bed.

 

Envisioned by a man with over 30 years in the safari business, Daunara is truly one of the most flexible and innovative camps we’ve encountered. Visits to the local elephant orphanage, tracking lions, helicopter flights to go tiger fishing or to nip across to the San cultural heritage site of the Tsodilo hills… all this and more is possible out of Daunara; it simply goes way beyond your standard safari offering.

With all the buzz being generated around it, availability is being snapped up at a rapid rate, so if your own home-away-from-home in in the Okavango Delta appeals to you, get in touch, and let’s start planning your tailor-made safari…

Kids on Safari: Where to Go, What to Do?

Posted on by James

If you want to truly open your eyes to the wonders of nature, take your kids on safari.

There is a stunning curiosity that is innate in children, but tends to fade as we get older; a curiosity that is wide open to possibility, and a curiosity in all things, whether great or small.
The intricacies of natural ecosystems are dependent on all their inhabitants, not just the big furry things that most of us want to take photos of, and this curiosity of your kids will expose it to you in the most wonderful way.

Whether it be moulding a lion’s track out of plaster of Paris or understanding the egg case of a praying mantis, the unending ways in which kids’ interests are piqued on safari makes sure that it is one of the most stimulating trips they will ever take.

Most lodges in Africa insist upon a minimum age of 6 to bring kids on safari, with some increasing that to 12. If 6 is the number, then for the most part the lodge will also insist that you pay extra for a private vehicle, which, while being slightly more expensive, does ensure that your safari is run at your own pace, and guests not related to your group won’t be impacted in any way, or vice versa.
Private safari villas are on the rise for those for whom privacy and creature comforts are the focus. This means safari villas with their own guides, vehicles, chefs and sometimes spas. These will almost always be separate from, but associated with, a wider lodge. There’s also the possibility of exclusive-use booking of micro-camps. With these setups, it may be possible to flout the minimum age policy.

A game drive with children is likely to be far more inclusive of a wider range of senses. Nibble this delicious wild berry, feel the texture of the bark of this ancient leadwood tree, get down to eye level with this marching ant column… the longer gaps between the sightings of larger game are done away with as everything is explored, and children will find that the natural world is as broad as their imaginations.

Our favourite places to safari with kids are:

Londolozi, South Africa:

With their long-established Cubs Den Program, Londolozi has decades of experience in making young kids feel right at home in the bush. A dedicated

In the words of former Londolozi Ranger (and father of two) Tom Imrie:

A Children’s Safari Program is often set out with the intention of keeping little ones busy while the parents relax. It has a fairly rigid timetable and is usually unchanged from season to season, year to year. A Children’s Philosophy embraces the fact that each child is unique and he or she has a different departure point to fun. Our philosophy therefore promises that while the parents relax we’ll find that departure point for your children and maximize their enjoyment in this exciting environment. This philosophy comes, as you can see, from Londolozi’s nearly 100 year history and experience of five generations in the bush.

Londolozi has long perfected the art of the Family Safari. Family Land Rovers can stop often for kids to jump out and utilize their senses. Touching, feeling, smelling, throwing – it all comes into the mix and we recognize that a four hour game drive can be a long time for a child to sit still. We believe it is essential to get the little ones off the vehicle as often as possible, even if it’s just to identify tracks.

Jack’s Camp, Botswana:

With its open grasslands and seemingly endless salt pans that stretch to the horizon, Jack’s Camp is a place where the imagination can stretch…

Whilst the safari activities here are meant for anyone and everyone, many of them are of special interest to younger minds, who are able to appreciate things in a different way to adults.
Walking with the San Bushmen, sitting with the local meerkat colony as they get foraging into the morning, or cruising on a quad bike across the desert sands (for the slightly older kids on safari); all are slightly out of the normal approach to safaris, but offer such diversity of experience as to make a stay at Jack’s Camp a continual wealth of stimulation.

Kids will end the day  in blissful exhaustion after all they’ve seen and done…

Singita Serengeti House, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania:

The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of Nature’s great spectacles. Singita Serengeti House’s enviable perch in the private Grumeti Reserve provides some of the best seats in the area to watch thousands upon thousands of wildebeest, zebra and other plains game journey in search of better grazing. Not only will you and your family be able to see this natural phenomenon first hand, you’ll also have exclusive use of the luxury house – including private onsite staff, a private safari vehicle and dedicated guide.

The Migration isn’t the only entertainment on the cards. Family bonding can take place over a match of tennis, watching a movie in the media room, or taking a dip in the 25-metre infinity swimming pool. Serengeti House also has a Mini Rangers course that’s sure to delight children of all ages. Young explorers will have the opportunity to learn how to track animals, dabble in some astronomy, upskill in bush survival techniques, put their knowledge to the test in nature quizzes, and participate in a whole host of fun competitions.

Safari doesn’t have to be for the rugged explorer anymore (although there are certainly still places that call for this kind of adventurer). It is becoming a more and more refined experience for the whole family. All-inclusive, interpretive, and deeply fulfilling, it promises to bond people together like few other journeys can or will.

If you are wondering whether or not taking your kids with you on safari is the right move, it almost certainly is.

Get hold of us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out about more amazing safari options at which you can open your children’s eyes to the magic of this wonderful world…

What Camera Do I Need on Safari?

Posted on by James

This question is as broad as safari options on the continent.
Camera bodies marketed with a huge pixel count, 96 000 focal points for auto-focus, this-and-this sensor with some kind of tracking you’ve never even heard of.

Then a lens with nitrogen filled glass systems, nano AR coating and an 11-blade circular diaphragm… is it all just designed to confuse you so you buy?

Maybe.

But choosing a camera is usually easier than you think, and doesn’t have to break the bank.

The first thing to remember, is that the best camera is always the one you have with you. No camera? No picture.

An iPhone can take great photos for memories (although they are limited in their capabilities, which we’ll get on to just now).

The main questions to consider when it comes to choosing a camera to buy (or to rent, as lots of lodges offer on-site rental options these days) is: what are you going to do with the pictures?

If you are simply going to be taking a few snaps to show your friends or send to them via Watsapp, or post on Instagram, then an iPhone – or Android – is probably more than enough to capture some memories (which is really the whole point).
But if you are going to look to print anything, make it your computer background, use it as a presentation, or anything that might require a slightly more professional approach, you’ll need to think beyond a simple phone.

The reality is that photography is about storytelling, and you need to consider how best to tell the story in front of you.
If you are sitting with a pride of lions, don’t try to get a photo of a single lioness, rather zoom out and capture the whole pride. That’ll give people a far better sense of your experience.

So what do we need for the wide-angle vs zoomed shot in terms of lens?

Well, versatility for one thing.
The most versatile lens we favour when starting out in safari photography is the Canon 28-300mm. It’s really the ultimate tool for photographers looking for the ultimate solution. Kind of like an all-in one shop. Sure there are lenses that allow you to shoot at a wider angle, or zooms that allow for a wider aperture (and more light), but for sheer number of options, there is no better than this beauty for starting out:

As one gets into more advanced photography, maybe a two lens setup (one wide-angle and one zoom) would be better, but when starting out, versatility is your friend.

Then in terms of camera bodies, you are essentially spoiled for choice.

Don’t be fooled by the big numbers presented to you in a camera’s specifications. You probably don’t want the 54 megapixels offered to you in the latest body to hit the shelves; your file size is going to be huge, you will need a bigger (and more expensive) memory card, the camera’s processor won’t be able to handle the files quite as quickly without a decent memory card, slowing your frame rate, and unless you are planning to print your photo to go on a billboard or to fill the size of a house, the megapixel count is completely unnecessary.
The camera picture below is the Canon R10. It’s a third of the price of the more professional bodies, but has more than enough processing power to get you the shots you need.
The beauty of most mirrorless cameras now (swiftly becoming the norm in photography circles) is that most of them offer a handy video component as well…

Stick around the 20 megapixel range for your first camera and you’ll be absolutely fine. Sure you might not be able to crop in as much when editing, but if you literally have to crop out half of your photo, you probably got something wrong whilst taking it in the first place.

A high frame rate can be handy when capturing action, but the difference between 11 fps (frames per second) and 20 is negligible when it comes to real-world situations. With 11 photos in one second, you will capture more than enough when there’s action happening, believe me!

Photography should be enjoyable, yet wildlife photography can be so frustrating, largely due to the unpredictability of the animals themselves. This is where a good guide comes in handy; he or she will understand behaviour to the point where they can position the vehicle in the right place in order to capture the moment, as well as being able to advise you on what settings to use when taking your pictures in what situations.

Whatever camera set-up you go for, remember to practice with it before going on safari,. You don’t want to be stuck fiddling with buttons and settings whilst the leopard is about to launch into the tree with its kill.

Any questions about photography, be sure to get hold of us at info@iconicafrica.com…

Iconic Africa’s 3 Bucket List Safaris

Posted on by James

From the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia to the roaring Atlantic Beaches of Cape Town… Africa has an almost endless variety of experiences on offer. It would take multiple lifetimes to do them all.
Yet if we were absolutely pushed to choose only THREE – an almost impossible task – we know which way we’d go.

After much internal deliberation, we settled on one safari to get you blood absolutely racing, one to make you feel an unbelievable connection to nature, and one to bring you utter peace…

Here then is Iconic Africa’s Bucket List Selection of 3 (at least for now):

1. The Great Migration

It’s one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth.

1.5 million wildebeest sweeping majestically over the great African plains is a sight that you won’t soon be forgetting. The annual circuit of this megaherd between the southern Serengeti of Tanzania and the Maasai Mara of Kenya is a sheer wonder to behold. The wildebeest – accompanied by half a million zebra – follow the seasonal rains and the good grazing they bring, moving in an never-ending clockwise ring.

From July through to September, the herds have been hitting the northern extent of their movements and have entered the Mara Triangle; a thin wedge of land between the Mara River in the east and the Oloololo Escarpment in the west. It is the Mara river and the crossing thereof that presents them with their greatest challenge on their already arduous journey.
Monster crocodiles lie in wait in the brown waters, and prides of lions line the banks, knowing how the herds will be funneled through very specific gulleys and exit points.
It is carnage as tens of thousands of wildebeest ford the river at once, and it is a glut for the predators.
A particularly wild crossing will leave you completely out of breath.

It seems almost impossible that there can be such an aggregation of wild animals in one place – or at least one area – yet the Great Migration as it is simply known will redefine what you previously imagined as abundance.
Seeing it first hand would be THE safari we would recommend, if you could only choose one…

2. Gorilla Trekking

Another safari to take your breath away, but in a total different manner…

Staring into the eyes of a great ape that but for its shaggy black coat and enormous size could be… you… will bridge the gap between human and nature in a profound way than any other experience you’ve ever had.
You will know – not suspect, but know – that this creature is working you out in exactly the same manner that you are working him or her out, and once you’ve encountered a sentient being like that in the wild, your whole perception of the word “wild” will change. As will your understanding of our human place in this world, and our responsibility to protect it.

The mountain gorillas of east/central Africa are confined to a very small area between Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC.
Uganda and Rwanda are where the infrastructure lies for gorilla trekking, and there are a number of excellent lodges to choose from, like Wilderness Bisate or Singita Kwitonda.
In reality, the lodge you stay in is secondary to the gorilla experience itself, but you do tend to find that the higher-end establishments prepare their guests far better for the treks on the mountain by providing things like gaiters, gloves and other handy equipment.

3. Boatride in the Okavango

Botswana’s Okavango Delta is a true eden. Plate tectonics under the Kalahari Basin have meant that the Okavango River never reaches the sea. Instead it flows out into the Kalahari sands, forming an unbelievably lush inland delta covering 16 000 square kilometres that are simply brimming with wildlife.

The Okavango is seasonal, in that the floodwaters are only around between the end of May and September, when the rain that has fallen far away in the Angolan highlands has flowed down through the catchment area and spread out into the myriad waterways of the Delta.

This is the time to go boating.

There are essentially two options; mokoro or motorboat.

A mokoro (plural mekoro) is the traditional dugout canoe of these parts and is still used extensively bby local fisherman to pole their way through the winding channels. A mokoro ride (multi-day trips are possible) is slow and serene, and allows one real intimacy with nature. You approach silently round corners so have every chance of hearing what’s up ahead of you, like a stately elephant bull crossing a channel.

You get to see the Delta at eye-level, and can appreciate its finer details like frogs and waterlillies and wading birds. It is one of the most tranquil experiences you can find on Safari.

The second option is to head out on a motorboat. You can still find the serenity in droves once you’ve cut the engine, and the beauty of this mode of transport is that you get to cover a whole lot more ground in a short space of time, so if you want to maximise your experience but only have a couple of days in the area, this is the option we’d recommend.

The Okavango is such an incredible body of water (during the flood) that it is a shame not to get the full potential out of your time there, and a boat excursion is definitely the way to do this!

Africa is vast and so is the diversity of safari offerings. No two experiences are the same, which is really the beauty of safari in the first place. Even the same activities in the same area will always differ.

The above three options we are supremely confident will move you in a profound way. If you want the safari bug to bite – and you are unlikely to have much control over the matter – then the Great Migration, a gorilla trek, and exploring the Okavango’s waterways are a sure way to let Africa into your soul…

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about these and other experiences that are out there, just waiting for you…

 

 

Lodges of Legacy

Posted on by James

Dotted amongst the myriad of safari offerings out there are a few camps who have truly stood the test of time.
Tracing their roots back to the early days of safari in their particular areas of operation, these gems have refined their offerings to the utmost degree, understanding their environments and their guests’ needs superbly. Some offer luxury, some offer a quaint rustic charm, but all of them are steeped in history and have already left a legacy within their chosen corner.

Here are three of our favourites, from South Africa, Kenya and Botswana…

Londolozi

Family-run Londolozi has been around since 1926, although technically only as a commercial safari operation since the early 70’s.

Bought by the Varty family as a bankrupt cattle farm almost 100 years ago, the land was slowly regenerated and rewilded, until it turned into the thriving ecosystem guests enjoy today, with some of the best wildlife viewing on the planet, the highest density of leopards yet recorded in Africa, and a percentage of repeat guests that most lodges only dream about, so loyal to this unique brand do its visitors become.

With its progressive approach to the safari space, Londolozi has been at the forefront of many innovations in the industry, setting the tone for how the bush can – and should – be so much more than simply a place to view animals. Instead, they have recognized it as a place of healing and connection, and this ethos has tailored their whole safari and lodge offering to reflect that.

Londolozi was the training ground for many big names across the industry. The head of Kruger Park anti-poaching, a world authority on the Okavango Delta, CEOs of big lodge portfolios, award-winning wildlife cameramen, internationally-renowned public speakers… all former rangers at Londolozi who have gone on and continue to go on to shape the industry across the continent.

The legacy of Londolozi has not only been the mark it has left on the many guests who have passed through its gates, but the ripple effect out across African safaris in general…

Cottar’s 1920 Camp

The award-winning Cottar’s 1920s Camp is situated in the 7608-acre private Olderkesi Conservancy bordering the famous ‘seventh’ natural wonder of the world, the Maasai Mara in Kenya and the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve. Owned and managed by the oldest established and continuing safari family in Africa it extends an era of luxury and quality and returns to the original spirit and essence of ‘safari’.

Cottar’s Safari Service was founded in 1919, which means over 100 years of experience in the industry.

The Cottar family was renowned amongst the British administration for being rebellious and anti-establishment, preferring long stints with African tribes in wildest Africa. The Cottars’ were the first to import American vehicles for safaris, the first to reach new areas such as Lake Paradise, the first to obtain never before seen wildlife footage. In this family it was normal to have lions, leopards, wild dogs and chimpanzees as family pets. Mike’s son Glen, with his wife Pat, continued the family business and pioneered hunting and explorations expeditions into remote parts of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan, Zaire and Botswana.

Having established and run photographic safari camps since their first one erected in Tsavo National Park in the 60s, the Cottars’ legacy has long been established, only furthered by the building of Cottar’s 1920 Lodge in the 1990s by Calvin Cottar, the great-grandson of Charles Cottar, who founded the business all those years ago.

The camp itself provides the romance of safari under cream canvas tents, the style of the bygone era of the twenties, while at the same time supplying the amenities required by today’s modern world travellers. It has two main mess tent areas for fine dining, drinking, reading and relaxing, and an amazing pool and spa where guests can relax after a game drive. Guests can also enjoy a traditional canvas safari bath, a genuinely unique way of bathing specifically set up on the tent’s verandah, with views out over the plains. The location of the camp provides easy access for day and night wildlife drives in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Olderkesi Conservancy, wildlife walks, and cultural interactions with the Maasai community.

The professional guiding team that will handle your safari rank among the most qualified in Africa.

Nxamaseri Island Lodge

Nxamaseri Island Lodge is one of the oldest camps in the Okavango Delta. It was established in the early 1980s by PJ and Barney Bestelink. PJ, an experienced guide, spent months exploring the permanent water channels of the delta in search of a perfect location for his home and camp. He favoured the Nxamaseri Channel for its beauty and seclusion, and eventually elected to build his lodge on a large shady island hidden in the Nxamaseri waterways.

The lodge is best summed up in the video below:


These are just three of our favourite picks, each offering their own unique insight into the wild ways of Africa.

Get in touch with us through info@iconicafrica.com to find out about some other gems who have left their indelible mark on the industry…