travel bulletin southern & east africa supplement 2014

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Southern & East Africa

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in Southern & East Africa

All About

February 2014

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All About Southern & East Africa3

Ido hope you enjoybrowsing through thisyear’s colourful

supplement, which ispacked full of ideas toinspire you to sell more ofthese fascinating countries– home to many colourfulcultures, magnificentscenery and the bestwildlife on our planet.

The sad death of NelsonMandela has increasedinterest in South Africa,as a result of whichdemand has increased forspecialised tours such as

our Long Walk to Freedom that visits keys sites associated withthe life and work of this great man.

Even though South Africa is best known for its big five safari, itoffers so much more. Why not suggest a wildflowers tour to thescenically beautiful Cape or, for the historians out there, a guidedtour of the Zulu battlefields?

Wheelchair accessible safaris open up more sellingopportunities in both Southern and East Africa and enable manyto travel where they never dreamed possible.

The classic safari destinations of Botswana, Kenya and Tanzaniacontinue to attract travellers, each with their own special appeal.For the adventurous, Madagascar is opening up again followingits successful elections.

With the recent “Animal Orphans” television documentary -where Paul O’Grady travelled across Africa interacting withhippos, rhinos, cheetahs and lions - the demand for safariholidays that give something back is growing. So add a visit to awildlife rehabilitation centre to your customer’s itinerary for anunforgettable experience.

With the rand having weakened by 25% over the past year, I amexpecting travel to South Africa and Namibia to increase sharply.

So this is the year to encourage your customers to travel toAfrica, as it’s offering the best value in more than 10 years!

Happy selling!Claire Farley2by2 Holidays

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CONTENTS

Hotel hotline - 5

What’s new - 4

South Africa - 7

Safaris - 16

Southern & East Africa

All About

Regional round-up - 20

Botswana - 13

Holidays for less than - 23


Operators are being more ambitious with their programmes for 2014 withitineraries that will take you far away from the tourist trail into the less-discovered

regions of Southern and East Africa

The holiday market to southern and eastAfrica is a very dynamic space this yearwith the depreciation in the rand

making holidays to South Africa moreaffordable, while a new East Africa visa thatcombines Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda hasbeen a great development for operators thatput together safaris and gorilla-trekkingitineraries.

With Emirates increasing its network fromDubai, this has opened up new routes andholiday options for UK travellers. And thereis lots of excitement about the launch ofBritish Airways’ Airbus A380 service toJohannesburg.

We catch up with some of the operatorsto see how 2014 is panning out.

Cox and KingsThe escorted tours specialist has introducednew tours and a new lodge in West Africafor 2014.

The 14-day Ethiopian Odyssey itinerarygets under the skin of this country and itsrich heritage.

The highlights include: a half-day tour ofthe capital Addis Ababa; a visit to Axum,believed to be the centre of early civilisationin Ethiopia and reputed home of the Queenof Sheba and the Ark of the Covenant; andthe tombs of King Kelab and Gebra Meskel,the Queen of Sheba’s swimming pool andpalace, King Ezana’s Stone and themagnificent obelisks.

Prices lead in at £2,785 per person,including flights, accommodation, somemeals, transfers and the services of a guide.

Wild FrontiersThe adventure specialist has introduced anew tour of Kenya for 2014.

The eight-day Kenyan Highlands HorseSafari, which departs on 8 March, will be ledby Wild Frontiers MD Jonny Bealby

This trip takes place predominantlyaround the Laikipia Plateau, which is hometo rare black rhino, ancient rock art andsome of the largest herds of elephantsoutside Kenya’s national parks.

The horse-back adventure will takeriders across valleys and savannahs rich inwildlife, staying at cattle ranches andcamping out beneath the stars, as thetrip makes its way into the Lolldaiga Hillsand down along the Ewaso Narok River.

Prices lead in at £3,450 per person,excluding flights.

Real AfricaThe safari specialist Real Africa hasrebranded its brochure featuring a newrange of Challenge safari.

The operator was prompted to add theChallenge safari option after marketingmanager Sara White said she saw anumber of her friends “in the 'mid life crisis'bracket running marathons, undertakingIron Man challenges and going on 100-milewalks and triathlons.

“Challenge trips allow those who haveperhaps already been to Africa to experiencethe continent in a more immediate andexciting way. They are designed to getpeople out of the 4x4.

“Some of the challenges are also really

good for families with teenagers looking forsomething a bit different, particularlythe Selinda Canoe Trail along the OkavangoDelta in Botswana,” she adds.

Real Africa’s 10-day Southern EthiopiaChallenge tour ventures into the BaleMountains, the Rift Valley Lakes and theTribes of the Omo Valley.

Prices lead in at £2,059 per person andinclude domestic flights, accommodation, aguide, transfers and all entrance fees.International flights are not included.

2by2 HolidaysThe Southern and East Africa tailor-madespecialist has introduced two new tours.

The first one is the 16-day Wildflowers ofthe Cape small group specialist tour, led byKeith Kirsten, “the Alan Titchmarsh of SouthAfrica”. This tour departs on 20 August and12 September and explores the spectacularwildflowers and gardens of the Western Capeand prices lead in at £2,995 including flights.

The other new tour is the 13-nightZululand Explorer: Battlefields and ReedDance plus Safari itinerary, which exploresthe history and culture of KwaZulu Natalincluding visiting the Zulu Battlefields andenjoying the annual Zulu Reed DanceFestival.

A safari in Hluhluwe Game Reserve alsofeatures along with a visit to theDrakensberg Mountains and Sani Passbefore some chilling-out on the warmDurban North Coast.

Prices lead in at £1,995 per personexcluding flights.

4All About Southern & East Africa

What’s new

The Selinda canoe trail in the Okavango Delta is a greatfamily adventure, according to specialist Real Africa


All About Southern & East Africa

New rooms with views

5

From camps opening up in areas that have been closed to tourism for 20 years to lodgesintroducing accommodation to cater for families, it’s a dynamic time for accommodation providers

Hotel hotlineSouth AfricaA new camp opened last month in theMotswari Private Game Reserve in SouthAfrica.

The Geiger’s Camp aims to be a marriageof old and new as the five-star safari lodgeattempts to reflect its long, rich heritageand soul of a family who has been involvedwith conservation for many years.

Marion Geiger has redesigned the campthat was set up by her father Paul Geiger 50years ago. Previously known as the rusticself-catering Sharalumi Camp, this newintimate and exclusive camp takes a stepaway from the classic colonial Africa style –with more modern décor and an ambiencereminiscent of an old conservationist’s hide-away. Comprising two stone houses with atotal of four en-suite bedrooms, a loungearea, a veranda and a swimming pool,refurbishments include private verandahs offeach bedroom, minibars, bathrobes, slippersand laptop-sized safes.

Game drives with professional gamerangers are available every day, with theoption of a guided Motswari trail walk or anight under the stars at the Giraffe’s Nesttree house.How much? Rates start at £180 per personsharing, which includes accommodation, allgame activities, all meals and most drinksincluding house wines. To book: email [email protected]

EthiopiaA new 15-bedroom, eco-safari lodge in theBale Mountains National Park 280 milesfrom the capital of Addis Ababa in southcentral Ethiopia has opened.

All of the rooms at Bale Mountain Lodgewill have a wood-burning stove andfurniture is being manufactured locallyusing sustainable wood.

The location of the lodge has beenselected to provide guests with the chanceto experience a wilderness that incorporatesthe largest tract of Afro-alpine moorlandremaining on the continent, the majoritybeing more than 3,800 metres above sea

level, while living in a cloud forest thatoffers access to the rift valley and widerlocal attractions.

The mix of habitats support a myriad ofrare species, many endemic to Ethiopia andsome found only within the park. Some 60%of the remaining Ethiopian Wolves arefound within the park; other species includethe endemic Mountain Nyala, Menelik’sBushbuck and various rodent species, pluslions, birds rare Giant Forest Hogs and theendemic Bale Monkeys.How much? Red Savannah offers fournights’ full board from £1,555 per personbased on two sharing, including flights andtransfers.To book: www.redsavannah.com

TanzaniaLuxury hotel group Four Seasons has openeda new lodge in the Serengeti.

The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengetihas 77 guest rooms, an educationalDiscovery Centre, a spa and a large infinitypool overlooking a watering-hole.

The Discovery Centre at the lodge offersguests the chance to learn about Africanculture and history with guests having theopportunity to get to know the local Maasaipeople and support wildlife conservationthrough the Cheetah Watch Campaign.

The centre has also introduced theWildlife Photographer in Residenceprogramme, which sees acclaimedwildlife photographers visit the Lodge toaccompany guests on their game drive tohelp them take the perfect shot.

The lodge’s Kijana Kids’ Klub offerschildren and teens the chance to learn moreabout the animal kingdom and the plantsand insects of the Serengeti.How much? Prices start at £740 a nightbased on two people sharing. To book: www.fourseasons.com

Kwihala CampAsilia Africa has added the Kwihala Camp inthe Ruaha National Park in Tanzania to itsportfolio of properties.

Described as Tanzania’sundiscovered safari gem despite it being thecountry’s largest national park, Ruaha ishome to 10% of the world’s lion population,the world’s third largest population of wilddogs and home to one of the fewsustainable populations of cheetah left inEast Africa.

Kwihala is a six tented camp set close tothe Mwagusi Sand River in a valley rich withgame. The camp is set deep in the bush ona hillside with great views, far away fromother camps so as to remain undisturbed. How much? Rates at Kwihala Camp start at£213 per person per night for full boardaccommodation and all activities.To book: www.kwihala.com

Namiri PlainsA new camp is poised to open in the east ofthe Serengeti on July 1, an area that hasbeen closed to tourism for more than 20years to act as cheetah sanctuary.

Namiri Plains, Serengeti will be the onlylodge in the area, which has the highest

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density of cheetahs in East Africa as well as strong leopard and lionpopulations.

The camp, which will be open for 10 months of the year, islocated in the small fever-tree forest overlooking the Serengetiplains that lie north of Gol Kopjes. There is a permanent watersource close by so game viewing in the immediate area will begood all year round.

The camp will be made up of traditional safari tents with acontemporary, sophisticated feel. How much? Prices will start at £400 per person per night,excluding park fees.To book: www.expertafrica.com

MalawiTongole Wilderness Lodge in the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve ispreparing to start welcoming younger guests from March with theaddition of a new family cottage.

The new accommodation has two bedrooms and a spaciouslounge and decking area, and is part of a general refurbishment ofthe lodge and other suites.

Tongole Wilderness Lodge is part of the Naturally AfricaCollection, which comprises a selection of luxury ecotourismlodges and responsible operators in Southern and East Africa.How much? Prices start at £170 per person per night based on twosharing, including all meals, activities, non-premium bar drinks,park fees and laundry.To book: www.tongole.com

KenyaSatao Camp in Tsavo East National Park in Kenya has put thefinishing touches to a refurbishment project, which has includedthe upgrading of all en-suite bathrooms.

The camp, which is part of the Naturally Africa Collection, has awaterhole at the camp, which during the dry season, is frequentedby hundreds of elephants as well as a number of other game in thepark. Tsavo East is one of the oldest and largest parks in Kenya.How much? Prices start at £178 per person per night sharing andincludes local airstrip transfers, two game drives a day, Bushsundowner and house drinks.To book: www.sataocamp.com

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

WEDDINGS

BIRDS

PHOTOGRAPHY

GOLF

BATTLEFIELDS

RIDING

TRAINS

We specialise in all

sorts of holidays to

Southern and East

Africa and have been

organising tours for

over 15 years. Please

get in touch and

let us exceed your

expectations.

T: 01582 766 122E: [email protected]

www.2by2holidays.co.uk

Hamba Kahle

Claire

The new Four Seasons hotel in the Serengeti has a big focus onconservation and education at its new camp in Tanzania.

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South Africa

7

South Africa looks set to have a good year with a weak currency making the countryan affordable option for many travellers who have been put off by price in the past

Legendary times

The death of the great NelsonMandela at the end of last year putthe beautiful country of South

Africa firmly back in the world’sspotlight.

Operators are optimistic that thepassing of the legendary ‘Madiba’ willbring the destination to a new audience,who would perhaps like to follow in thegreat man’s footsteps and visit the sitesthat played a huge role in his life and thedevelopment of modern-day South Africa.

Operators such as Audley Travel and2by2 Holidays have their own dedicateditineraries that take visitors to all thesites and museums.

Katie Fewkes, Africa product managerat Audley Travel, says the operator hasseen a strong level of interest across theboard for South Africa. “I suspect partly todo with Mandela’s legacy and the recentfilm, but also because of the value aspectof the rand. The exchange rate right nowis better than it has been for years andmeans that people are getting greatvalue for money in South Africa.”

South African Tourism trade relationsmanager Andrew Sharpe agrees that theincrease in visits can also be linked to thedepreciation of the rand making SouthAfrica a more affordable destination thanit has been for a long time.

British Airways is also putting itsconfidence in South Africa’s continuedpopularity with the launch earlier thismonth of the six-times-a-week AirbusA380 service from Heathrow toJohannesburg.

Meanwhile, SAA has launched amobile check-in app that allowspassengers flying from London to entertheir booking details, select a seat andget their boarding pass emailed directto their phone.

The airline, which will be moving intoHeathrow’s Terminal 2, which opens

later this year, has also employed theservices of one of South Africa’s mostcelebrated chefs, Benny Masekwameng,who is creating some new menus forSAA customers.

With so much to offer, South Africa isa destination that agents often need ahelping hand to sell, so we have spokento the experts, who have put someitineraries together so you can give yourclients the advice they need when itcomes to booking a holiday to adestination that offers such great valuefor money.

Beach and bushAudley Travel has put together a newBush and Beach package that combinesthree nights tracking down the big fiveon safari at the award-winning ThandaPrivate Game Reserve in Zululand,Kwazulu Natal with five nights at thechic beach retreat of White PearlResorts at Ponta Mamoli in SouthernMozambique with swimming withdolphins, turtle watching, scuba divingand just chilling high on the agenda.How much? Audley Travel offers the 10-night trip from £4,580 per personincluding international flights, transfers,park fees, all meals and safari activitiesat Thanda Private Game Reserve, halfboard basis at White Pearl Resorts andnon-motorised water sports.To book: www.audleytravel.com/southafrica

Walking and wine toursActivity and adventure tours specialistExplore has introduced a new holiday for2014 that will appeal to foodies andactive-adventure seekers.

The new nine-day Cape Town Walkingand Winelands tour combines easywalks with sampling fine wines andtraditional food.

The holiday starts off in Cape Townwith a walking tour of the city, a trip upto the top of Table Mountain, a visit toHout Bay and then Boulders Beach to seethe colony of penguins that have madethe beach their home. The following day,the tour heads out to the winelands ofFranschhoek for the tours of thevineyards before setting off for a hikethrough the mountain fynbos andvineyards of the Groenlandberg.

Day four takes in Constantia to explorethe nature reserve of Cape Point with dayfive of the tour exploring the farmingcountry along South Africa’s west coast andthe wine estates of Swartland and Darling.

A visit to the Langebaan Lagoon, which ishome to 300 species of birds, is part of daysix’s schedule with an evening spent on aLangebaan houseboat.

The penultimate day of the tour takes inthe Cederberg Mountains, which is the bestplace to view the ancient San Bushmenrock art before returning to Cape Town forthe flight home.How much? Prices lead in at £1,991 perperson including return flights,accommodation on a mixed-board basis anda tour guide.To book: www.explore.co.uk

Operators are offering their clients the chance to fol-low in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela with toursthat visit sites of great significance in Madiba’s life

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Epic AfricaIf your clients are up for a momentous journey across southernAfrica, then suggest they consider Titan Travel’s Tracks ofAfrica 17-day journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls.

The tour starts off in Johannesburg then heads to the coastaltown of Port Elizabeth for an overnight stay and then goeswest to the forested area of Tsitsikamma National Park.

Next stop is a two-night stay at Kynsa, a popular town in theheart of the Garden route before heading west for an overnightstay in the fishing village of Arniston.

Three nights in Cape Town is next on the agenda beforejumping on board the luxurious Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africatrain for a two-night journey through the South African

Audley Travel recommends a stay at the White Pearl Resorts in SouthernMozambique as part of its twin-centre bush and beach package


Cape Town tours specialist Footsteps to Freedom Tours hasunveiled a new city walking tour entitled Mandela in CapeTown: from Prisoner to President.The two-and-a-half-hour tours covers two miles of the historicand cultural heart of Cape Town and brings to life the journeyMandela took from his conviction in 1964 at the Rivonia Trialuntil his current status as a global icon of bravery and freedom.When most people think about Mandela and Cape Town, theydon’t see beyond Robben Island, but Cape Town has acaptivating Mandela story to tell as it provided the setting forthe unfolding of a series of significant and secretive meetingsthat led to the surprise release of Mandela and the unbanningof the ANC in February 1990.For more details, email: [email protected]

Walking tours


countryside and goldmining villages. Guests will then arrive inPretoria for an overnight stay before transferring toJohannesburg Airport for the flight to Livingstone and a roadtransfer to the Zambezi River. This will be followed by a rivercrossing into Kasane in Boswana - the gateway to ChobeNational Park - for a two-night safari experience.

On day 14, the tour heads back to Livingstone to check intothe Zambezi Sun Hotel for a two-night stay and a river cruiseon the Zambezi Queen to watch the sun set.How much? Prices lead in at £4,495 per person and includetwo nights on the Pride of Africa, 12 nights’ accommodationon a mixed board basis, transfers and excursions.To book: www.titantravel.co.uk

Pedal powerTeam GB’s cycling success at the 2012 Olympics has inspired awhole new generation to ditch their gym memberships and geton their bikes to stay fit.

Many people are including their passion for cycling in theiroverseas holidays, and for those that are, Exodus has just thetour for them.

The 11-day Cape Argus Pick ‘n’ Pay Cycle tour offers keencyclists the chance to take part in the Cape Argus Ride, thelargest individual time cycle tour in the world.

The operator brands this tour as challenging as the Cape

Argus Race is a 68-mile route down the Cape Peninsula fromCape Town.

To make the most of the trip to South Africa, Exodus hascombined this challenging event with a cyclo-tour through theWestern Cape.

Exodus cyclists will take a route from Cape Town and take inrenowned wineries, the Karoo and the spectacular WhaleRoute, which is an ideal preparation for the race itself, which ison day nine of the 11-day tour.How much? Prices lead in at £2,399 per person includingflights, accommodation and most meals. The departure date isMarch 1.To book: www.exodus.co.uk

Whale of a timeThe Western Cape of South Africa is said to be one of the bestplaces in the world to see whales. Once a busy whaling town,Hermanus in particular has become renowned as a popularwhale-watching centre as several species use the coastline togive birth to their calves before heading back out to the deepoceans for the rest of the year.

Visions of Africa has a 12-night self-drive tour that combinesa stay in Hermanus with a Garden Route touring holiday, twonights at a malaria-free safari lodge in the Eastern Cape, threenights in Cape Town and an overnight in Port Elizabeth.How much? The 12-night self-drive tour leads in at £2,395 perperson including international flights eight nights’ bed andbreakfast, two nights’ full board, game drives and hire car. To book: www.visionsofafrica.co.uk


South Africa

Photography tours specialist Pangolin Photo Safaris hasintroduced photo tours of Cape Town to meet clients who wantto visit Cape Town after they have been on safari with Pangolinon the Chobe river in Botswana.The escorted tours specialist has designed three-day tours forpeople of all abilities with a photo guide who leads the groups.The tours include: a full-day Chase the Sun Peninsula Tour, a full-day Township and Winelands Tour and a half-day Cape TownWalking Tour and Cookery Class.Operators that feature the tours include Red Savannah andAudley Travel.Prices start at £65 per person and for more details, go towww.capephoto.co.za.

Pangolin Photo Safaris

Explore’s Winelands and Walking Tourvisits the Cederburg Mountains

THE 4 STARARNISTON SPA HOTEL

The luxurious 4-star Arniston Spa Hotel is internationally known as one of South Africa’s great getaways. Set in the Overberg in one of the Cape’s most exquisite locations with the Indian Ocean splashing on your doorstep. The hotel offers breathtaking sea views and 60 luxurious rooms.

Relaxing at our Ginkgo Spa, sightseeing, bird-watching, biking and whale-watching on your doorstep are just a few of the things to do in the area.

Tel: +27 28 - 445 - 9000 / [email protected] / www.arnistonhotel.com


The Garden Route When it comes to ticking the must-do box on the bucketlist of experiences to enjoy in South Africa, a trip along theGarden Route has to be top of the agenda.

The journey, which starts off in Cape Town, finishingsome 470 miles later at the Eastern Cape city of PortElizabeth, is part of most visitors’ itineraries, either as partof a self-drive or an escorted tour.

There are many sites to see along the route including:Bloukrans bridge, home to the world’s highest commercialbungee jump; the Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn; thetreetop canopy tour in Tsitsikamma Forest; the SwartbergMountains; whale and dolphin cruises from Plettenberg bayand Knysna; and the golf courses of George are a must forthe keen golfer.

There are also many beautiful hotels to stay at along theroute. Here is a sample choice of what is available.

Barrydale Karoo Hotel Delegates attending this year’s Indaba conference inDurban who are planning to extend their stay may beinterested to hear that the Barrydale Karoo Hotel is offeringthem the chance to experience the hotel as part of aneducational opportunity.

The hotel, which is located between Oudtshoorn and

Cape Town on the scenic Route 62 will not charge for theeducational stays but rooms need to be pre-booked and aresubject to availability.

The boutique, country-house-style hotel has just 15rooms, individually decorated, and a large swimming poolset in landscaped gardens.

The hotel’s restaurant serves up authentic Karoo dishes,and is a particularly popular lunch stop for travellers onRoute 62 as there are a number of attractions close byincluding Barrydale Cellars, South Africa’s top brandyproducer and the famous Tradouw Pass.

With just 15 rooms, the Barrydale Karoo Hotel is theperfect place for guests who like intimate settings


South Africa


Indaba takes place from 10-12 May 2014 at the AlbertLuthuli Convention Centre in DurbanHow much? Room rates start at £50 per night in lowseason.To book: www.barrydalekaroohotel.co.za

Views Boutique Hotel and SpaLocated overlooking Wilderness beach and the IndianOcean in Oudtshoorn in the Klein Karoo region, ViewsBoutique Hotel and Spa is just 20 minutes from Georgeairport which has regular connecting flights to and fromCape Town and Johannesburg.

The contemporary hotel has 21 suites that range frommountain-facing deluxe, two-bedroom family suites toromantic honeymoon rooms with the icing on the cakebeing the penthouse suite.

All rooms have floor-to-ceiling picture windows tomaximise natural sunlight and the bathrooms have under-floor heating.

The Views’ award-winning spa has four rooms with amenu of treatments that aim to enhance the balance ofbody, mind and soul. There’s also a Tylarium Herbal Sauna,Vitality Pool and a Moroccan-style Rasul Chamber alongwith a gym that offers a range of cardiovascular equipment.

Other facilities include a restaurant and a roof-top pool

and cocktail deck with uninterrupted ocean views.The hotel has a number of packages available including a

Winter Madness two-night stay, a stay four and pay forthree nights break and a honeymoon package.How much? The Winter Madness costs from £52 per personper night for a minimum two-night stay in a luxury suite.To book: www.viewshotel.co.za

Arniston Spa HotelWho wouldn’t relish the chance to do a bit of whalewatching from the balcony of their hotel?


South Africa


Well, the four-star Arniston Spa Hotel located just off theGarden Route in the Overberg region is a beachfront hotelnext to the old fishing village of Arniston sheltered baywhere whales come to play. In fact from June to November,the southern right whales make Arniston Bay their home.

The beaches that surround the hotel are safe and unspoiltand are perfect for fishing and snorkelling, and the hotelitself makes the most of its seaside location with a menupacked full of great seafood with oysters from nearby shores

and the freshest fish from the local fishing boats,The hotel has 60 en-suite rooms, and has recently

introduced a VIP suite. The Gingo Spa has four treatmentrooms, a lounge and two saunas and the hotel is also apopular destination as a wedding venue, and also boasts fullconference facilities for up to 100 delegates.How much? Prices lead in at £54 per person per night forbed and breakfast in a pool-facing room.To book: www.arnistonhotel.com



Botswana’s popularity as a safariholiday destination has been at aslow but steady pace, which has

really helped the country to carve out areputation as a premium safari holidayexperience.

The tourism chiefs have been mindfulof jumping in at the deep end andensured that the development of thecountry’s safari-holiday offering hasbeen a meticulously planned one.

The strategy has really paid off asdemand for the destination regularlyoutstrips supply, with a limited numberof lodges in a given area ensuring thatvisitors who have paid a lot of money togo there will enjoy a real wildernessadventure.

Consequently, it means it is one of thebest places to see wildlife as therestrictions on the number of visitorsmeans that there will only be a limitednumber of tourists at each reserve.

Dawn Parr, UK representative at theBotswana Tourism Organisation, saysthere has been some mid-rangeaccommodation opening recently, whichhas made the destination moreaccessible to a larger range of people.

“Many of them have been on anothersafari to a different destination and nowwant to see what better opportunitiesthere are in Botswana. They are alsolooking for different activities - I am often

asked about walking safaris, horsebacksafaris or cycling and even recentlymotorbikes.

“People are also starting to lookfurther ahead and book holidays more inadvance. For the past 18 months duringthe recession, people were bookingBotswana much closer to their traveldate and this is now lengtheningagain,” adds Parr.

Twin centres are becoming morepopular too, according to Parr as a resultof the new Air Botswana flight from CapeTown to Maun. “It means visitors canavoid Johannesburg and go to Cape Townfirst before heading to Botswana for asafari. Other options that we are seeing isBotswana and Mauritius for the beach.”

Botswana is also starting to make animpact on the honeymoon market due toits luxury and exclusive reputation, addsParr.

We catch up with some of theBotswana specialists to find out aboutpackages they can recommend to get thebest out of a holiday to this magnificentcountry.

Riding safarisHorseback safari specialists In the Saddlesays Botswana is the ultimate riding safaridestination because of the vastness of thereserves and the luxuriousness of the horsesafari camps in the Okavango Delta.

It is a particularly appealing destinationfor experienced riders as there areunfenced reserves that are home toelephants and a variety of big cats.

The operator recommends its five-nighthorseback safari in the Makgadikgadi saltpans, which are the remnants of a vastlake that dried up 1,500 years ago.

A great time to visit is at the start ofthe wet season in October and Novemberwhen the pans fill with water and thegrass grows, which results in a vastmigration of zebra and wildebeest,followed by their predators.

While it’s not possible to ride on thepans during the wet season, there are lotsof opportunities for long canters acrossthe grasslands, and lots of game viewing.

During the dry season from May toSeptember, there are less zebra andwildebeest, but as the pans dry out, thereare great opportunities for fast ridingacross the vast expanses of salt crust.How much? Prices for the five-nightsafari start at £2,035 and include threenights at Camp Kalahari and two nightsat a fly camp. International flights are notincluded.To book: www.inthesaddle.com

African PrideThe safari specialist says it has seen amarked increase in demand for a range ofexperiences in Africa.

Premium classWhen luxury is all that will do, then Botswana is guaranteed to deliver

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Sales manager David Holland says this has come from alltypes of travellers from families to silver travellers. “To reflectthis demand, African Pride is offering travel agents access toa range of such products, including a canoeing safari in theOkavango Delta in Botswana.”

The five-day Selinda Canoe Trail is a canoeing and walkingsafari that navigates 27 miles through the heart of theSelinda reserve in Canadian-style canoes.

There are lots of opportunities for game viewing along theway, with evenings spent in dome tents put up along the way.How much? Prices for the five-day canoeing experience leadin at £2,198 per person.To book: [email protected]

Three’s the magic numberVisions of Africa recommends a triple-centre desert and deltasafari that offers diverse game viewing along with the chanceto help raise awareness and funds for the Botswana RhinoRelocation and Reintroduction Project.

Guests can experience the diversity of the country from thearid landscape of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans on the edge ofthe Kalahari Desert to the flooded waterways of the OkavangoDelta.

The Rhino Rendezvous Tours includes accommodation on afully inclusive basis at Leroo La Tau Lodge in theMakgadikgadi Pans National Park, Camp Okavango in theheart of the Okavango Delta and the predator-renowned areaof Savute Safari Lodge.How much? Prices lead in at £3,160 per person and includeinternational flights, six nights’ safari accommodation, all

light aircraft transfers between lodges, game drives andconservation fees. To book: www.visionsofafrica.co.uk

Titan TravelThe small group tours specialist has a 13-day Okavango Deltaand Chobe Safari with Victoria Falls that combines a three-night tented safari experience in the Okavango with a uniqueriver safari in Chobe and the chance to visit Victoria Falls, oneof seven natural wonders of the world.How much? Prices lead in at £4,195 per person and include10 nights’ accommodation, most meals, excursions, gamedrives, transfers and international flights.To book: www.titantravel.co.uk

Ta Shebube has opened three new lodges in the predator-rich Nossob River valley of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.Rooiputs comprises of 11 luxury thatched chalets madeout of a mix of wood, canvas and glass, Polentswa hasnine tents and Union's End six tents.It’s the perfect location for people who want to escapeinto the wild and enjoy the solitude that this uniquedesert safari can offer.There’s lots of wildlife to see here including the black-maned Kalahari lion, leopard, brown and spotted hyena,jackal and wildcat.www.tashebube.co.bw

New openings


Botswana

In the Saddle’s five-day riding safari cantersthrough the Makgadikgadi salt pans


+44 (0)207 647 1018 [email protected] botswanatourism.org.uk

indulgence with romance as standard.honeymoons on the wild side...


From horseback safaris to river adventures by canoe, there’s plenty of ways toexperience the wilderness and wildlife of Southern and East Africa

Gone are the days when going onsafari meant being squeezed intothe back of a 4x4 with people

you don’t know fighting to get aglimpse of the big five.

Safari providers have really upped theirgame, and there is so many ways to seethe big five and more.

From budget, overland truck doors totrekking in the Bwindi ImpenetrableForest of Uganda, your clients are reallyspoilt for choice in 2014.

Bird’s eye viewIf your clients fancy taking to the skies totrack down game in the Africanwilderness, then suggest they considerone of the guided air safaris offered byKenya’s luxury flying safari operator,Scenic Air.

For 2014, the flying safari specialist hasintroduced two new guided air safaristhat will complement its existing eight-day guided Southern Circuit.

The new Northern Circuit Wings Overthe Rift Valley is an eight-dayprofessionally guided trip in CessnaGrand Caravans aircraft that includesstays at Joy’s Camp in Shaba, Chui Lodgeat Lake Naivasha in the Rift Valley andKaren Blixen Camp on the Mara River.Guests can reserve seats on any of theweekly departures with a maximum ofnine passengers on board.

In addition to the weekly guided trips,Scenic Air is running the Ultimate GuidedLuxury Air Safari through east Africa anddown to southern Africa.

This 16-day guided trip takes in thenorthern Serengeti, Mahale Mountains,Lake Malawi, Chongwe, Chobe and theOkavango Delta, finishing with twonights at Victoria Falls.How much? Prices for the eight-dayguided trips start at £3,061 per person,while the 16-day guided trip leads in at£12,229 per person.

To book: www.scenicairsafaris.comOne hump or two?You may have clients keen to experience asafari from the saddle, but just in case youhave enquiries for something a little different,why don’t you suggest they consider awalking and camel safari in Kenya?

Original Travel has a five-night adventurein the Laikipia region of northern Kenyawhere the only traffic you are likely toexperience is the camel train that you arepart of.

Led by guide Kerry Glenn andaccompanied by a Laikipia Masai tracker andfew riding camels who carry yourrefreshments and day-packs.

The pack camels and mobile camp usuallyfollow behind, passing by to set up the nextcamp and allow you to spend timeinvestigating things of interest you see onthe way. By the time you arrive at the nextcamp a cool drink and gourmet lunch iswaiting for you.

The heat of the afternoon means theonly thing to do is relax and enjoy yoursurroundings before going for an eveningwalk and sundowners.How much? Original Travel offers a five-night walking and camel safari in Kenyafrom £2,680 per person, based on twopeople sharing. The price includes full-board accommodation, park fees, alltransfers, and international and domesticflights.To book: originaltravel.co.uk

Riding highHorseback safari specialists HorizonHorseback Safaris has opened a new camphigh in the bushveld above the MatlapengValley in South Africa

Camp Davidson, which has four luxury en-suite tents, has been built on Horizon Safarisown land and is a welcome addition to theHorizon Signature Lodge.

The operator has an eight-day African

16

Safaris


Game players

Ranch Riders offers horsebacksafaris in South Africa, Namibiaand Botswana with holidays for

beginners and experienced riders

S05 TB Southern & East Africa Supp Safari_Layout 1 2/10/2014 2:28 PM

Explorer itinerary that combines four days at the new CampDavidson with four days in Botswana with Limpopo Valley HorseSafaris.

On arrival at Johannesburg International Airport, guests aretransferred to the Horizon Signature Lodge where they areintroduced to their safari horse before they head off to CampDavidson.

En route through the Matlapeng reserve, the ride will stop off for asundowner break at the Red Lake, where they are likely toencounter a pod of resident hippo, before climbing the ridge up toCamp Davidson.

The following three days involve exploring the plains of thereserve on horseback following game trails and narrow kloofs beforepacking up and heading to the Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris inBotswana for another four days of horseback safaris.How much? Prices lead in at £1,590 per person for the eight-dayAfrican Explorer itinerary, excluding transfers and flights.To book: ridinginafrica.com

In The SaddleHorseback riding safari experts In The Saddle operates riding safarisin Botswana, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Namibia.

The specialist’s 10-night Namibia – Greater Fish River Canyonitinerary is an adventure with a difference as it involves riding onArabian horses in a private reserve as well as challenging riding

expeditions in search of desert adapted elephant and rhino and inthe Fish River Canyon.

The ride combines dramatic canyon landscapes, spacious desertplains and the mighty Orange River and offers riders theopportunity to experience both inaccessible countryside and realwilderness areas, as well as riding without limitations.

The trail takes riders right up to the canyon rim to experiencethe stunning views from the top, before descending into thecanyon and exploring alongside the Orange River. The trail thenleads away from the canyon and takes riders across opensavannah plains and rocky landscapes to reach Klein Aus Vista forthe chance to see the wild horses of the Southern Namib Desert.

Riders must be fit, experienced and competent at all paces.Accommodation along the way includes a mixture of lodge

accommodation, tented camps and basic camping.How much? The 10-night leads in at £3,500 excluding flights andruns from May to October.To book: inthesaddle.com

Ranch RiderTony Daly, managing director of Ranch Rider, believes South Africais the ideal place for a horseback safari. “The malaria-freeWaterberg region is home to various luxury bush homes, cattlefarms and camps where the inexperienced rider can saddle upwith Africa’s game in a private reserve.”

Naturally Africa Collection

Naturally Africa Collection comprises a unique selection of luxury eco-

tourism lodges & inbound safari operators, providing exceptional

responsible travel and safari experiences.

Satao Elerai, Amboseli, Kenya

Wake in the early morning to watch the first few rays of sun hit the blue

Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s greatest mountain. Satao Elerai is an eco-friendly

luxury camp with views over the famous Amboseli ecosystem. Game

viewing activities are offered to Amboseli National Park and the Elerai

Conservation area.

Scenic Air Safaris

"Make your journey as exceptional as the destination!" Discover Kenya and

its stunning highlights, travelling in the greatest of comfort and style,

accompanied by your professional guide and wondering at the Kenyan

scenery below; the journey truly becomes part of your luxury safari

experience and not simply a means of getting there!

Karen Blixen Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya

Set on the banks of the Mara River, Karen Blixen Camp’s location is

spectacular; with wildlife drawn to the river to drink throughout the day

and set in the game rich Mara North Conservancy, with its abundance of

resident predators. Luxury and strong eco-tourism values blend to create a

quintessential safari experience.

Tongole Wilderness Lodge,

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Malawi

Tongole Wilderness Lodge, situated deep within the breathtakingly

beautiful Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, is the idyllic setting from which to

enjoy the tranquillity of this unspoilt wilderness. Enjoy complete freedom

to choose how you spend your days, including nature walks, canoeing,

birding safaris and fly fishing, or simply relax at the lodge, waiting for

elephants to come down to the river to drink.

Satao Camp, Tsavo East, Kenya

Experience the classical African safari with fantastic wildlife viewing from

the comfort of your luxury green canvas tent, drawn to a very popular

watering hole in front of the camp. Satao Camp is a peaceful oasis beneath

the shade of old Tamarind trees, treating guests to personal and friendly

service.

Severin Safari Camp, Tsavo West, Kenya

A combination of adventure, relaxation and wellness, escape and unwind at

Severin Safari Camp and KenBali Spa, with African wilderness as a backdrop,

watching the wildlife pass by and at one with Kenya’s magnificent nature.

Skyship Company

The ultimate safari experience, flying high above the African savannah,

viewing nature at its best from a bird’s eye perspective, as dawn breaks and

you drift over the Masai Mara in a Hot Air Balloon.

www.naturallyafricacollection.co.uk | [email protected] | 01622 370 270

Safaris



The horse-riding safari specialist, which offers holidays forbeginners and experienced riders, also features mobile horsesafaris in South Africa, Botswana and Namibia which are eithercamp or lodge based, and where there are opportunities to ridewith the big five.

Due to the diverse vegetation in the Waterberg region, thegame reserves of Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill carry a wide range ofdifferent game species, including rhino, sable antelope, buffalo,giraffe, wildebeest and brown hyena.

The horses live out and graze among the game on a daily basisso the wildlife are familiar with the horses so give riders to get upclose to the animals roaming the reserves.How much? Ranch Rider is currently offering seven nights for theprice of six at Ant’s Nests and Ant’s Hill with prices leading in at£1,295 per person for 1 March -24 March stays. Flights areavailable from £839 per person.To book: www.ranchrider.com

Pakamisa Lodge and Private Game ReserveLocated in the hills of northern KwaZulu-Natal, Pakamisa Lodgeand Private Game Reserve is celebrating the year of ‘the horse’with a three nights for the price of two offer during May, June,and July 2014.

The reserve specialises in horse-back safaris so whether youare a beginner or an advanced rider, the lodge owners will pairyou with a horse suited to your level of competence

While the reserve is home to plenty of wildlife, it is not hometo any of the big five, so guests can expect to encounter herds ofzebras, giraffes and wildbeests, for example, but none of theirpredators.

The lodge focuses very much on the variety of activitiesavailable, such as archery, clay target shooting, air rifle shootingand fishing. And for guests who want to track down the big five,visits to another local game reserve can be arranged.

Pakamisa Lodge has eight luxury suites individually positionedin the indigenous gardens.How much? Rates start at £104 per person per night and includemeals and a choice of two activities per day.To book: www.pakamisa.co.za

Walk on the wild sideFor your clients who have a passion for hiking, why don’t yousuggest they consider Intrepid Travel’s epic 39-day Gorillas toVictoria Falls.

The tour explores the Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda on awalking safari to catch glimpses of chimpanzees playing in theforest canopy, before hiking into the mountains for encounterswith rare mountain gorillas and enjoy traditional game drivesspotting rhinos, zebras and more through the vast plains of theSerengeti and the deep crater floor of the Ngorongoro Crater.

There’s the opportunity to camp amid tropical gardens on theslopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, relax on the golden sands at LakeMalawi with the tour climaxing at Victoria Falls.How much? Prices lead in at £3,411 per person including 30nights’ camping, three nights’ hotel accommodation, three nights’dormitory and two nights’ bungalow accommodation, transport,most entrance fees and activities and local tour leader throughout.International flights are not included.To book: www.intrepidtravel.com

East Africa specialist Premier Safaris has put together a dedicatedUganda itinerary due to the increasing demand from operators.

The 11-day Uganda Meander tour combines game and watersafaris in the Murchison Falls National Park with chimpanzeetracking in the Kibale Forest, and the ultimate bucket list tour forsafari lovers, gorilla trekking from Silverback Lodge in the BwindiImpenetrable Forest.

Premier Safaris guides are about as knowledgeable as they comeand their specially-designed vehicles are equipped with chargingpoints for tablets and camera equipment.How much? Prices start at £3,202 per person sharing and is fullyinclusive of all meals and accommodation as well as chimp andgorilla trekking permits. International flights are not included.To book: premiersafaris.com

Up streamNorman Carr Safaris knows a thing or two about river safaris, andin particular, ones that follow the Luwi River in South LuangwaNational Park.

The safari specialist has three camps around the Luwi River andits eight-night Luwi River Trail visits all of them. This safari isparticularly suited to adventurous types who want to immersethemselves in the wilderness experience.

The Luwi Camp is the starting point for the adventure, exploringthe wild areas up towards the source of the Luwi.

Then a few days are spent at Nsolo, downstream of Luwi, and atKakuli camps with its wide views high on the banks of theLuangwa, with an option to “return to the wild” and sleep outsideunder the stars with just a mosquito net, a guide and a scout forcompany and camp fires to ward off nocturnal visitors.

The safari is led by one of Norman Carr’s veteran guides, andthis eight-night privately guided safari is perfect for adventurersand those looking for a really involving wildlife and wildernessexperience.

The bush camps are tiny – only four rooms each and each one isdesigned to blend with its surroundings.How much? Prices start at £3,187 per person based on twosharing, with park fees from £340 and domestic flights from £340.To book: www.normancarrsafaris.com

Keep it in the family2by2 Holidays has put together a 10-day self-drive Zulu WildlifeTour that explores the magic of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Recognised as a World Heritage site, the mountain range formsthe backbone of Southern Africa, running all the way from the GreatRift Valley.

As well as being a walkers paradise as there are so many routes toexplore, the region packs a punch on the history front.

The mountains are home to rock art by the San Bushmen, whopopulated the region thousands of years ago. In fact, some of the artis believed to be up to 10,000 years old.

The self-drive itinerary then heads up to the Natal Midlands forsome sun, sea and sand time at the coastal region’s beautifulbeaches. Tours of Durban city including botanical gardens arerecommend and a trip to uShaka Marine World, situated in the oldharbour area, is a must.

The final leg of this trip heads to the Hluhluwe National Park inZululand, renowned for its wildlife including all of the big five and isthe perfect alternative to the better known reserves such as Kruger.


Safaris


How much? The 10-night, self-drive adventure in KwaZulu-Natalstaying in guesthouses and Ezemvelo resort camps costs from£4,875 for a family of four, including international flights,accommodation, transfers, park entrance fees for all private toursand for certain lodges where specified. To book: www.2by2holidays.co.uk

Wildlife Worldwide has a nine-night family safari holiday in theless-visited, malaria-free game reserve of Limpopo.

Families travel between Welgevonden Game Reserve, theSoutpansbeg Mountains, Watersberg Biosphere Reserve,Philanesberg National Park, and Madikwe Game Reserve, and thechildren can enjoy vehicle safaris, birding walks, game drives,mountain biking, horse-riding, art and craft workshops and learn

about the Tsonga and Venda culture. Kids can learn bush skills on the Junior Rangers programme, take

part in special ‘bugs and spoor’ walks, go pony-trekking to spotlions, elephants, buffalos, brown hyenas, cheetahs, wild dogs,endangered black rhinos and meerkats. How much? The 11-day tour costs from £2,895 per adult and £1,945per child, based on two sharing and includes return flights, hire car,nine nights’ accommodation, most meals and guided activities.To book: www.wildlifeworldwide.com

Budget safarisFor your clients who want to make their money go further, suggestthey try an overland truck safari with Tucan Travel.

The trucks make safaris more affordable as they can carry morepeople than the smaller 4x4 vehicles.

The operator currently has a nine-night Kruger to Victoria Fallsoverland tour that visits Hazyview, Kruger National Park, Palapye,Nata and Chobe National Park before arriving at Livingstone inZambia. The tour involves camping with upgrades to lodgesavailable en route. How much? Prices start at £599 and includes nine nights’ camping,most meals, game drive in Kruger National Park, Makgadikgadi PansNational Park, a sunset game cruise down the Chobe River andentrance to Victoria Falls. International flights are not includedTo book: www.tucantravel.com

PAKAMISA PRIVATE GAME RESERVEPongola, KwaZulu Natal, South AfricaTel: +27(0)83 229 1811 & +27(0)83 229 2116Email: [email protected]: www.pakamisa.co.za

Superbly located on the high plateau of Pakamisa Mountain overlooking the Pongola River Valley, this secluded retreat will rejuvenate your soul.

8 Luxury suites | 5-star Cuisine | Horseback SafarisGame Drives | Walking Safaris | ArcheryClay target shooting

Safaris

A sunset cruise as part of Premier Safaris’ UgandaMeander in Murchison Falls National Park



From Namibia to Swaziland, we get the lowdown on new lodges and additions tooperator programmes for 2014

NamibiaThe Namibia Tourist Board UK is planningto build on its relationships with agentsthis year with a number of trade eventsthroughout 2014.

The NTB is holding a roadshow in theUK with events in Dublin, Manchesterand London from 29 April to 2 May.

The roadshow will provide agents withthe opportunity to get some training onNamibia as a destination as well asindividual products in each of the cities,with a product manager workshop andmedia breakfast to be held in London too.

The product manager workshop atNetwork Namibia will take place with theexhibitors having one-to-one meetingswith up to 25 tour operator productmanagers.

The NTB UK is also planning to have abigger presence at WTM in 2014 and isable to offer support for productmanagers planning fam trips throughassistance with flights.

Trade support for agents looking topromote Namibia is also available, formore information.

Wilderness Safaris has added the HoanibSkeleton Coast Camp to its portfolio ofcamps in Namibia’s remote Kaokoveld.

Located in the private PalmwagConcession straddling the Palmwag areaand Skeleton Coast National Park, theClassic Camp will comprise eight tents,including one family unit, and is expectedto be ready in August.

Air Namibia has introduced a new AirbusA330-200 on its Windhoek-Frankfurtservice, offering 214 economy seats and30 business class seats that will featurefully flat beds with seat back video andvideo on demand.

KenyaKLM has strengthened its co-operationwith Kenya Airways by adding four newroutes, increasing the total KLM-KenyaAirways joint venture to a total of six. Thenew routes include: London to Nairobi;Amsterdam to Entebbe/Kigali;Amsterdam to Lusaka/Harare; andAmsterdam to Kilimanjaro/Dar-es-Salam

These additions bring the total number

of frequencies operated jointly by KLMand Kenya Airways to approximately 44flights per week.

Prices lead in at £491 for London toNairobi.

Wildlife Worldwide has introduced anew programme of family wildlifeadventures for 2014 including a MasaiWarriors and Wildlife Galore safari.

Featuring visits to the Ol PejetaConservancy and the Lewa WildlifeConservancy, the whole family will enjoythe opportunity to get up close to thewildlife, while staying in small exclusivecamps and lodges.

Spot lions, zebras and giraffes on aprivate family game drive at NairobiNational Park, feed the Rothschildgiraffes, and enjoy a private viewing ofthe Daphne Sheldrick ElephantOrphanage where the children can adoptan elephant.

They will also be able to visit theChimpanzee Sanctuary, meet Baraka theblack rhino, go lion tracking and explorethe hippo hide in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Prices for the 11-night safari lead in at£4,575 per adult and £2,995 per child andinclude international and internal flights,transfers, nine nights’ accommodation,most meals and guided activities.

Real Africa has introduced a new range ofChallenge safaris, aimed at those who arelooking for something more exhiliratingfrom their holiday to Africa.

One of the Challenge options is an 11-day Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb. This toursheads up the slopes of Mount Kilimanjarounder the guidance of local guides.

While the trek may be challenging, theovernight accommodation adds a bit ofluxury to the experience with comfortabletents, porters to carry all the kit, home-cooked food under the African night sky

20

Regional round-up


Best of the rest

See the wildlife from the water during a canoe safari at Lugenda Wilderness Camp in Mozambique

S06 TB Southern & East Africa Supp BOTR_Layout 1 2/10/2014 2:37 PM

and washing and toilet facilities. Prices lead in at £2,645 and include international flights,

transfers, full board while on climb and mixed board-basisthroughout the rest of the holiday.

Titan Travel has a 10-day Grand Safari of Kenya classicsafari based on hotels and lodges in the Masai Mara wherethey will be game-viewing opportunities aplenty.

Prices lead in at £2,395 per person and include sevennights in hotels and lodges on a mixed board basis,excursions, game drives, international and internal flights.

TanzaniaAbercrombie and Kent has introduced two lodges inTanzania for 2014.

The Sanctuary Saadani Safari Beach Lodge is set on thesouthern border of Saadani National Park on the coast ofTanzania.

The lodge has six eco-friendly suites, each with oceanviews opening on to the sandy beaches of the Indian Oceanwith verandas overlooking the Saadani National Park.

The lodge offers a variety of activities ranging fromtraditional game drives to sand bank picnics to a MaasaiCommunity Tour.

Meanwhile, the Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge is a newriver retreat hidden within the trees bordering the Wamiriver, boasting 17 stilted suites.

The lodge offers guests a range of activities includinggame drives and river excursions.

ZambiaNorman Carr Safaris has introduced a new walking safari inZambia during what they call the secret green season.

The Week on the Wild Side tour is a walking tour in theLuangwa Valley in Zambia from January to April that usesNorman Carr’s three camps, the new Chinzombo, Kakuli andKapani, in the region as its base.

The secret itinerary promises to optimise wildlife sightingsacross the week and includes nights at Kakuli, which islocated on an elevated stretch of the Luangwa riverbank andwhose traditional walk-in safari tents offer the only truebush camp experience in the green season.

Guests can also experience night safaris at Kapani Lodge,and then for a taste of luxury in the African bush, guests willstay at the recently opened Chinzombo.

Prices lead in at £1,856 per person including all meals,game drives but excluding flights.

Wildlife Worldwide has added an 11-day Zambia andZimbabwe twin-centre safari.

The Scenic Wonders of Kafue and Hwange includes a stayat Kafue National Park in Zambia, one of the best places tosee cheetah, with a visit to Hwange National Park inneighbouring Zimbabwe.

Hwange is renowned for having one of the largestelephant populations in Africa with as many as 40,000roaming the plains. A free day to explore the Victoria Fallsprovides a fitting finale to the trip.

Join the call of the wild

For more information or call FREE on 0800 988 5166 or visit www.titanagents.co.uk

Book any Titan itinerary to be entered into a draw to WIN a guaranteed place on a magical 8 day South African FAM. Departs 15th May 2014.

To be a part of this amazing opportunity e-mail your name, booking reference and ABTA number to [email protected]

Win a place on our amazing African 8 day FAM in May

Highlights include

• Stunning Rovos Rail Journey• Johannesburg• Cape Town• Mala Mala & much more



Prices start at £3,895 per person based on two sharingincluding all flights, transfers and accommodation.

MozambiqueA lodge in the Niassa National Reserve in the remotestcorner of Northern Mozambique is offering its guest thechance to enjoy safari by canoe.

The reserve is home to thousands of elephantsand buffalos, wild dogs, lions, leopards and a 37 species ofbird life (more than 37 species). In fact, herds of elephantsare often seen in and around the lodge.

A stay at Lugenda Wilderness Camp includes a host ofactivities such as canoeing along the Lugenda River, gamedrives, bush walks, rock climbing, hiking, birding and stargazing.

Canoe safaris can last up to three days, and guests canexpect to see lots of bird life, hippos, crocs, elephant andbuffalo.

Accommodation at Lugenda comes in the form of eightluxury tents that are discreetly situated on the banks of theLugenda River beneath towering fig trees, each with its ownpatio deck with wide-angle views.

Room rates start at $560 per person per night for fullyinclusive accommodation.

MalawiDescribed as the warm heart of Africa, the nation of Malawihas a lot happening this year with the biggest success storybeing the restocking of Malawi’s Majete Wildlife.

The transformation has taken a desolate area devoid ofany wildlife, and turned it into a thriving big five destinationwith more than 2,500 animals including black rhino, lionsand leopards.

A number of new lodges and hotels have opened inMalawi too which means that the country has a greaterrange of international quality accommodation to offer.

The country is also celebrating 50 years of independence

this year, so 2014 is a great year to experience this lesser-visited African country.

SwazilandIf you have clients who love their festivals, suggest theyhead to the tiny nation of Swaziland, which has three bigevents in 2014.

These include the Marula Festival in March 2014, which isa royal tribute to the riches of Mother Nature, where localMarula fruit is harvested and used to make beer to atraditional recipe and celebrated with song and dance.

Then there’s the Bushfire Festival in May which will seesome of Africa’s best artists performing; then there’s theReed Dance in August 2014, which sees the comingtogether of the nation’s women to cut new reeds to presentto the Queen Mother. More than 60,000 young women takepart in this visual spectacle at the royal residence.

Swaziland has lots to offer visitors, from tracking downprotected rhinos in the wild lowveld or seeking out rarebirds in the rugged highveld.

Historians can visit the world’s oldest known mine atNgwenya or follow the colonial trail of the early settlers,while adrenaline junkies can keep busy with horse ridingand river rafting.

ZimbabweSouthern and East Africa specialist 2by2 Holidays has adedicated tour of Zimbabwe for 2014.

The 10-night Grand Tour covers all the highlights ofZimbabwe, travelling from Harare to the Great ZimbabweRuins and then on to Bulawayo and the granite MatoposHills, where former colonial master and diamond miningmagnate Cecil John Rhodes is buried.

The tour also includes a big five safari at Hwange NationalPark and a stay at Victoria Falls.

Prices lead in at £2,695 per person, excludinginternational flights.

Norman Carr Safaris has a new walking tour in the Luangwa Valley that incorporates a stay at its threelodges: the new Chinzombo (pictured above), Kakuli and Kapani




From exploring South Africa’s scenic Garden Route on a self-drive holiday to exploringthe Namib desert and the wildlife of Etosha National Park in Namibia, we have puttogether a round-up of some the best package offers around at the moment

Holidays for less than...

2by2 Holidays has a 12-night self-drive tour of Namibia that leads in at £1,665 per person

…£1,500Tucan Travel has an 11-day Cape Town toJohannesburg itinerary that drives alongthe Garden Route and takes in thedramatic landscapes, waterfalls andindigenous forests of the Tsitsikammawilderness area of the Garden RouteNational Park, then delves into theunderground world of the Cango Caves,before going on safari at Addo ElephantNational Park and heading into themountainous Kingdom of Lesotho.How much? Prices lead in at £1,139 perperson including flights, one night inhotels, hostels and guesthouses, ninenights’ camping, nine breakfasts, ninedinners, travel by Tucan Travel ExpeditionVehicle and an English-speaking localguide.To book: www.tucantravel.com

…£3,000Audley Travel has a 10-day small groupKenya Adventure Camping Safari thatexplores the Amboseli and the MasaiMara national parks with accommodationin dome tents. Safari activities includenight drives, game drives and guidedbush walks. How much? Prices lead in at £2,745 perperson including flightsTo book: www.audleytravel.com

Virgin Holidays has a 14-day A World inOne Country Southern African safari thatvisits Johannesburg, Mpumalanga,

Panorama Route Kruger Swaziland,Zululand, Durban, Garden Route, CapeTown and Winelands.How much? Prices lead in at £2,419 perperson and includes international flights,mixed board basis and transfers. To book: www.virginholidays.co.uk

2by2 Holidays has a 12-night NamibiaHighlights self-drive tour that covers thehighlights of Nambia, such as the NamibDesert and giant sand dunes ofSossusvlei and Sesriem in the south; theseaside town of Swakopmund; Bushmanrock paintings and unique geology inTwyfelfontein; and the wildlife of EtoshaNational Park in the north. How much? Prices lead in at £1,655 perperson including flights.To book: www.2by2holidays.co.uk

…£5,000Visions of Africa has an eight-nightBotswana safari holiday featuring twonights at Victoria Falls. The tour starts offat a hotel in Victoria Falls before crossingthe border into Botswana for two nightsat the Chobe Safari Lodge for two days ofgame drives and safari cruises in theChobe National Park. Next stop is the heart of the Delta withtwo nights at the Moremi Crossing Lodge,which is a water based camp, with allgame viewing by motorised boat, mokorocanoe or walking on neighbouringislands.

The final stop is at Sango Camp locatedon the edge of the Moremi GameReserve, for twice daily game drives andguided walks into Moremi and the Khwaiconcession.How much? Prices start at £3,435 perperson including accommodation on amixed board basis, game-viewingactivities, inter camp and airporttransfers. International flights are notincluded.To book: www.visionsofafrica.co.uk

…£10,000Mountain Kingdoms has a 14-dayNgorongoro Highlands and SerengetiWilderness small group trekkingadventure that takes in a game drive inNgorongoro Crater before beginning thethree-day trek through the highlands ofthe Ngorongoro Conservation area underthe guidance of a local Masai tour leader.The trek then heads into the wide openplains of the Serengeti to embark on thewalking safari. Here travellers areprivileged to be among the few allowedto trek in this unique area far fromnormal safari routes. Undoubtedly theywill have the chance to see Africa’s BigFive game, from a safe watching distance.Accommodation is in luxury safari tents.How much? Prices start at £5,375including flights. Departure dates are 12July and 30 August.How to book:www.mountainkingdoms.com

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travel bulletin southern & east africa supplement 2014

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