SAFARI DESTINATIONS

Chobe National Park is Botswana’s first national park and its most biologically diverse. Located in the north of the country, it boasts one of the greatest concentrations of game in all of Africa. The park is widely known for its large elephant population, estimated to tally around 50,000.

The Kalahari Desert is a large semi-arid sandy savannah in Southern Africa extending for 900,000 square kilometres (350,000 sq mi). Covering much of Botswana, parts of Namibia and regions of South Africa. The Kalahari is a semi-desert, with huge tracts of excellent grazing after good rains. The Kalahari supports more animals and plants than a true desert, such as the Namib Desert to the west. There are small amounts of rainfall and the summer temperature is very high. Feline Fields by Mantis is located North-West of Botswana, between the Okavango Delta and the Namibian border.

Kalahari Plains lodge, by Wilderness Safaris, lies in a remote part of the diverse and productive Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR). It offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa, particularly in summer. Located in the Kalahari Desert in central Botswana, this reserve is the largest conservation area in the country and one of the largest in the world. Its star attractions include the legendary Kalahari black-maned lion as well as some of the world’s best cheetah viewing.

Kalahari Plains overlooks an immense pan with endless horizons and beautiful skies. It comprises eight en-suite canvas units with a sleep-out platform above each from which to enjoy moonlit or star-studded nights. The main area consists of a lounge and dining area with a pool and deck. Solar power provides all the electricity and hot water in the camp and insulated canvas walls and roofs keep temperatures inside the units comfortable.

The Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve, a salt pan– with an area of 3 900 sq. kms is situated in the middle of the dry savanna of north-eastern Botswana. It is one of the largest salt flats in the world. The pan is all that remains of the formerly enormous Lake Makgadikgadi.

Lying southeast of the Okavango Delta and surrounded by the Kalahari Desert, Makgadikgadi is technically not a single pan but many pans with sandy desert in between. The largest being the Sua (Sowa), Nwetwe and Nxai Pans. The largest individual pan is about 1,900 sq mi (4,921.0 km2).

The pans themselves are salty desert whose only plant life is a thin layer of blue-green algae. Very little wildlife can exist here during the harsh dry season of strong hot winds and only salt water. After rain, the pan becomes an important habitat for migrating animals. Wildebeest and one of Africa’s biggest zebra populations, and the large predators that prey on them can be seen on the plains. The wet season also brings migratory birds such as ducks, geese and Great White Pelicans. The pan is home to one of only two breeding populations of Greater Flamingos in southern Africa.

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a lush, emerald oasis that beckons nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Covering over 1,000 square kilometers, this ancient rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including 13 primate species, hundreds of bird species, and countless orchid varieties. The park’s network of well-maintained trails offers an opportunity for immersive jungle hikes, canopy walks, and chimpanzee tracking, providing a truly unforgettable experience. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a serial property and is a crucial expanse for rainforest preservation in Central Africa.  Within the park, one finds the paramount natural habitats for several species not found anywhere else on Earth, notably the globally imperiled Eastern Chimpanzee, the Golden Monkey, and the critically endangered Hills Horseshoe Bat. Furthermore, Nyungwe National Park hosts 12 mammal and seven bird species facing global threats. With a documented 317 bird species, it is one of Africa’s preeminent sites for bird conservation.

Nyungwe Forest Lodge Interiors

Akagera National Park, nestled in the eastern scenic heart of Rwanda, is a true African wilderness gem. Covering over 1,100 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, it offers a captivating blend of savannah, wetlands, lakes, and rolling hills. This unique environment is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos – and a rich variety of bird species. Akagera’s conservation efforts have revitalized the park, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Accessible with a manageable 2-3 hour drive from Kigali, the nation’s capital, Akagera beckons with its rich and varied landscapes.

In the northern expanse of the park, you’ll find expanses of low-lying grasslands and sweeping savannah plains, creating an evocative setting reminiscent of the quintessential East African safari experience found in other renowned wildlife destinations.

Venturing westward within Akagera reveals a contrasting tableau, where undulating hills and picturesque valleys, characteristic of the charming Rwandan countryside, punctuate the terrain.

To the park’s eastern fringe, the Akagera River courses through, giving rise to a series of tranquil lakes. Akagera National Park boasts a remarkable tapestry of approximately 10 lakes, the most prominent of which is Lake Ihema, where delightful boat cruises offer a unique perspective on the park’s aquatic wonders.

The eastern sector of Akagera unveils a landscape of breathtaking diversity, from expansive marshlands to lush papyrus swamps, constituting the largest portion of protected wetlands in central and eastern Africa.

With its wealth of habitats, wildlife species, and avian wonders, this substantial national park presents an enthralling array of experiences. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is especially renowned for its remarkable birdlife, boasting an impressive roster of over 480 bird species. Thus, Akagera National Park is a veritable paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts, offering a symphony of avian sights and sounds amid stunning vistas and natural splendor.

Lake Kivu, western Rwanda, is a multifaceted gem that beckons tourists with its natural beauty and diverse activities. This picturesque freshwater lake, surrounded by rolling hills, is a haven for travelers seeking a unique blend of experiences. Visitors can explore the rich coffee and tea plantations that flourish in the region, immersing themselves in the aromatic world of Rwandan coffee and tea production. For those seeking cultural immersion, night-time fishing excursions with local fishermen offer an authentic glimpse into traditional Rwandan life. If adventure is your calling, the biking trails along the lakeshore provide a captivating journey through stunning landscapes. Lake Kivu is a destination that seamlessly combines relaxation, culture, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable Rwandan experience for all who visit.

Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with a rich cultural heritage, offering a unique and enriching experience for tourists. Known for its clean and safe streets, Kigali welcomes travelers with its friendly atmosphere and warm hospitality. Explore the city’s historical sites, like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, to gain insight into Rwanda’s past. Visit local markets for a taste of authentic Rwandan cuisine and crafts. The city’s thriving art scene, contemporary architecture, and lush green spaces provide plenty of cultural enrichment and relaxation opportunities. With a growing culinary scene, bustling nightlife, and easy access to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty, Kigali is the perfect gateway for a memorable Rwandan adventure.

Stretching 500 kilometers between the old German colonial town of Swakopmund and the Angolan border, the Skeleton Coast is virtually uninhabited and thoroughly untamed. The Bushmen of the Namibian interior called the region “The Land God Made in Anger”, while Portuguese sailors once referred to it as “The Gates of Hell”. This name is derived most probably from the huge numbers of stranded whales that lost their lives here. Numerous ships have stranded at the Skeleton Coast thanks to the thick fog, the rough sea, unpredictable currents and stormy winds. It provides unmatched vistas and invites serious contemplation.

This roughly elliptically shaped clay pan is covered in a crust of salt-rich sand. Located in the southern part of the Namib Desert, in the Namib-Naukluft National Park (the largest conservation area in Africa) it is dramatically surrounded by high orange dunes.

Deadvlei, close to Sossusvlei, is a clay pan characterized by dark, dead camel thorn trees contrasted against the white pan floor. Its trees are estimated to be approximately 900 years old, kept from decomposing by the dry climate. The contrast between the pitch-black trees and bleached-white pans is a paradise for photographers. The rusty-red dunes and deep blue sky make for incredible images.

This coastal desert may be the oldest in the world and contains some of the earth’s driest regions, with only western South America’s Atacama Desert to challenge it for age and aridity. The sand dunes, some of which are 300 metres (980 ft) high and span 32 kilometres (20 mi) long, are the second largest in the world.

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This seaside resort, founded in 1892, showcases its German origins in its beautiful European-style architecture. This is the adventure capital of Namibia, with extreme sports like sandboarding, quad biking, dune carting, parachuting, hot air ballooning, shark fishing, deep sea fishing and beach angling on offer. For the more laid back tourist, Swakopmund offers an array of restaurants, cafes, art galleries, museums, boat cruises and a snake park.

Damaraland is part of the Kunene Region of Namibia and is located between the Brandberg and the little village of Sesfontein. Damaraland is characterized by its rocky and rugged landscapes of rough, fascinating beauty.

This region is home to the people of the Damara language group, thus the old name Damaraland. Today the name is only used in tourism and as a geographical classification.

The Erongo Region in Namibia can easily be described as the gateway to the coast and Damaraland, as well as being dense with popular tourist attractions. Some of the hot spots are the Brandberge, Spitzkoppe, Erongo Mountains, Erindi Private Game Reserve, and the Dorob National Park.

The Region is a geological wonderland. Its center is formed by the Erongo Mountains, a 130 million year old volcanic ruin with breathtaking rock formations and landscapes. Over thousands of years, Magma, which cooled down subterraneously formed impressive natural scenarios dominated by massive granite boulders. Especially at dusk, these landscapes offer beautiful photographic motives. The mountain range is also home to many interesting ancient rock paintings.

The Fish River Canyon commences at Seeheim, at the lower course of the River. The Canyon is 161 km long, 27 km wide and up to 550m deep. The Fish River Canyon ends at Ai Ais and the river then flows into the Orange River, the border to South Africa.

The Fish River Canyon is located in the south of Namibia. It is the largest canyon in Africa, as well as the second most visited tourist attraction in Namibia.

The Fish River is the longest interior river in Namibia. It cuts deep into the plateau which is today dry, stony, and sparsely covered with hardy drought-resistant plants. The river flows intermittently, usually flooding in late summer. For the rest of the year, it becomes a chain of long narrow pools. At the lower end of the Fish River Canyon, the hot springs resort of Ai-Ais is situated.

Public viewpoints are near Hobas, a campsite 70 km north of Ai-Ais. This part of the canyon is part of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. The other 90 km of this canyon are privately owned.

Tswalu Tarkuni is an exclusive and private safari villa situated within the Tswalu Kalahari Private Nature Reserve in South Africa. It is the former personal residence of the Oppenheimer family, who own and manage the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve. Tarkuni offers a luxurious and secluded retreat for guests looking for an intimate safari experience.

Each suite is individually decorated and features spacious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and indoor and outdoor showers. The villa also includes a private pool and various communal areas for relaxation and socializing.

The villa comes with a dedicated team of staff, including a personal chef, housekeeper, butler, and private guide. They cater to your needs, ensuring that you have a seamless and unforgettable experience during your stay at Tarkuni.

Guests at Tarkuni have the flexibility to design their own safari itineraries and activities. The private guide will work closely with you to tailor game drives, guided walks, horseback safaris, and other activities to your preferences and interests.

Launching in April 2023, Loapi Tented Camp will provide a new hospitality experience for guests coming to the foothills of the Korannaberg mountains in South Africa’s biggest private wildlife reserve, Tswalu Kalahari.

Sustainability is the focus for this forthcoming property housing just four one-bedroom and two two-bedroom private safari homes, all combining canvas with glass and steel in their contemporary structures and set at least 100 meters apart, with plunge pools, fire pits and views across the reserve.

Each tented home will come with its own dedicated butler, a private safari vehicle, tracker and guide, and all meals will be prepared by a private chef in the interactive kitchen. In addition to traditional wildlife drives, activities from here include a meerkat experience and seeking out the area’s ancient rock art.

A dinner at this unique and award-winning restaurant is included when you stay at any of the Tswalu lodges for two nights or longer. 

Owner, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, was born and raised in South Africa. The son of a farmer, his interests gravitated toward the kitchen, where his mother and grandmother helped cultivate his love of food. As his life progressed and his passion grew, Jan Hendrik moved on to study in France, hoping to cultivate the skills and knowledge needed to be awarded a Michelin star, among the highest awards in the culinary world.  His restaurant, Klein JAN opened in April of 2021  and has since evolved into an exceptional gourmet food experience in a very remote part of Africa – Tswalu Reserve.

Jock Safari Lodge is a renowned luxury safari lodge located in the southern area of Kruger National Park in South Africa. It is situated in the private Jock Concession, which shares a border with the main park, offering guests exclusive access to a diverse and wildlife-rich ecosystem.

The lodge is named after Jock of the Bushveld, a legendary and beloved dog known for his adventures in the African wilderness. Jock Safari Lodge celebrates the spirit of exploration and adventure, providing guests with an authentic safari experience.

Accommodations at Jock Safari Lodge consist of luxurious suites and a private villa. The suites are designed with a blend of classic and contemporary elements, featuring elegant furnishings, en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, and private decks that overlook the river or the surrounding bushveld. The Fitzpatrick’s at Jock villa offers a more exclusive experience with its own private chef, game drive vehicle, and dedicated staff.

Jock Safari Lodge offers a range of activities to immerse guests in the African bush. Expert guides and trackers lead exciting game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing opportunities to spot the Big Five and other wildlife species. Guided bush walks allow guests to explore the area on foot and better understand the ecosystem. Photography enthusiasts can participate in dedicated photographic safaris to capture stunning images of wildlife.

Dulini offers a sanctuary of restoration, romance and adventure, carefully curated for solo adventurers, exclusive parties celebrating life’s special occasions together and romancing honeymooners alike.

​Home to three magnificent wilderness sanctuaries – Dulini Moya, Dulini Leadwood and Dulini River. Combining luxury, classic elegance, fine-dining, and an unforgettable wilderness experience, complemented by the Dulini Spirit.

The andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge is an intimate and romantic safari lodge, overlooking a unique vlei (wetland system) on the edge of Phinda Private Game Reserve’s rare sand forest.

Dramatically set into a cliff face, the andBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge’s six intimate and private suites are seemingly suspended over the deep valley below, providing breathtaking views of Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Set amongst the densely wooded Zuka Hills of Phinda Private Game Reserve, studded with aloes and overlooking a small private waterhole, lies the andBeyond Phinda Zuka Lodge, a private sole-use villa, ideal for families and small groups.

Perched on a hilltop, with wraparound views of the lush Lebombo foothills, the andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge is the ultimate family safari destination in Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Nestled inside 1,000 hectares (2,471 acres) of Africa’s last remaining dry sand forest lies the andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge, one of the world’s first eco-designed luxury safari lodges.