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A stay at Mkulumadzi Lodge is like a pampering for the soul. It’s Robin Pope Safaris’ newest addition set within the 70 000 hectares of Malawi’s Majete Wildlife Reserve. The bushveld sanctuary offers those who visit it seclusion and comfort, fused into one memorable African experience.

This piece of wilderness paradise has its hopes for the future set high. Mkulumadzi plans to reintroduce the King of the Beasts to its plains soon. This means guests will be spoilt to possible sightings of all of the Big 5 during their time there. Once the lions roam free the Majete Wildlife Reserve will become Malawi’s first Big 5 Park and staff cannot wait.

Currently the idyllic wild place is home to all four of the other big ones on the list. Steph Naidoo from Robin Pope Safaris described how a few young adult leopards, originally from the Kruger National Park in South Africa, were reintroduced into the park last October. They are thriving in their new home and sporadically allow guests a glimpse of their beautiful selves, but only when they feel like it of course.

More tales about rhino sightings are being shared around the dinner table at Mkulumadzi of late too, especially ones of the shy resident black rhinos that seem to be showing themselves a little more than usual this year. Majete currently holds 12 rhino with the hopes of some calves arriving soon, if the mating activities noted this season are anything to go by. Keeping in mind the horrific threat to Africa’s rhinos by poachers, the successful natural breeding of these animals in protected reserves, like this, is of the uttermost importance. We all hope to see little horned-ones running around Mkulumadzi soon. Rhino tracking on foot is just one of the bush activities available to guests, when staying in camp. This is an opportunity visitors cherish long after leaving camp.

Steph also told of another fantastic recent sighting saying, “Just a month ago, one of our guides, Bertram, and guests were lucky enough to spot a caracal. These are generally very rarely sighted creatures so it was a treat both for Betram (who had never seen one), as well as our guests.”

The lodge is clearly the place to be if amazing wild encounters are what you are after. The lodge offers guests river cruises, game drives and walking safaris for the wild at heart. Guided hikes and tours of the local village are also special experiences which can be enjoyed from this base. The small camp is made up of eight gorgeously kitted out but rustically themed chalets, keeping things intimate and uncrowded.

Guests leave with memories of sunsets, adventure and a peace unknown to them before.
www.mkulumadzi.com
info@robinpopesafaris.net
Tel. +265 (0)1794491

Guests and staff members at Loisaba Wilderness Lodge in Nanyuki, Kenya were treated to a full day’s show of the most special kind on Thursday the 9^th of February. From the comfortable seating at the poolside tables in camp, one of nature’s wonders was witnessed. A resident black headed oriole mother and baby pair entertained onlookers as the chick took his first flight.

Loisaba’s General Manager and avid nature-lover Kirsty Sutherland watched in awe with the rest of camp as the beautiful chick left the nest for the first time. The bird’s happy home hangs from a tree near the pool and is conveniently visible to all those who raise their eyes to the skies.

Kirsty described the show as, “an amazing sequence of events and a very long day for the mother.” She went on to describe how the pretty chick emerged from his nest and slowly and tentatively fumbled his way up the branch. All the while Mom sat in a tree across the lawn constantly calling to encourage him to fly over to her. She proudly, and presumably nervously, watched as he finally plucked up the courage to make the flight after around 15-20 minutes of constant calling on her part.

He did it. And for his effort and to show her pride in his accomplishment Mom rewarded the little captain with food. But the lesson didn’t end there. The baby was in for a hard day’s flying. The mother flew from tree to tree calling for him to follow her to her new perch each time. He obeyed and was successful every time, even though it was a bit breezy and she often coaxed him to fly into the wind.

The chick carried out a pre-flight check before the second flight and it was amusing to watch him summoning up courage, preening and displaying his gorgeous plumage

Kirsty also told of how the flying went on the whole afternoon with them moving from tree to tree with breaks of around 20-30 minutes in between. She said, “It was a most incredible and very special sighting for all our guests.”

The mom and son pair can still be seen going about their business at Loisaba. A stay at this awe inspiring lodge is equal to something out of the imagination. Time there is a memorable, authentically Kenyan experience with accommodation options including lodge rooms, the house or the cottage depending on your preferences. Take up the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of sleeping under the African skies on the unique star beds too. A photograph showcasing this aspect of Loisaba was recently posted on thefancy.com and really whets readers’ appetites for an experience in the African bush. See the post here http://www.thefancy.com/things/287993709/Loisaba-Wilderness-Resort-%40-Kenya

Loisaba is a 61,000 acre ranch home to a host of wildlife including endangered and rare species such as wild dog, greater kudu, Grevy’s zebra and striped hyena. Guests can explore Loisaba through an incredible array of activities – day and night game drives, guided bush walks, river rafting, a camel safari and horse riding to name but a few. A spa session or five is also a must. Rejuvenation of the mind, soul and body is guaranteed after a visit to Loisaba Wilderness.

http://www.loisaba.com

Tel +254 (0)62 31072
enquiries@loisaba.com

Unless game viewing with a snorkel is your idea of fun, you wouldn’t have been able to experience any of the phenomenal bush views and activities at Motswari Private Game Lodge recently.  The incredible rains which took the Timbavati and surrounding area, quite literally, by storm over the past weeks temporarily prevented the usual safari style fun to be had there.

On a very rainy Wednesday the 18^th of January Motswari was evacuated and all guests were lifted to dry land by helicopter. This decision came after the power and telephone lines went down at the lodge and seeing to the guests needs became a logistical impossibility. Game Ranger Chad Cocking blogged about the situation that followed by writing that the rains had slowed by that afternoon and the flooding had happened over only 36 hours.  425mm of rain were measured in that time which is the equivalent to the camps annual rainfall level.

The raging waters have since subsided, leaving many stories and overwhelming photos in its wake. Happily though the lodge is open to all guests and is functioning as normal. Many of the roads have however been damaged due to the floods and it is recommended that all guests with reservations contact the reception prior to arrival to find out about bypass routes where applicable. Travellers seeking a truly African getaway can find solace and unbounded natural majesty there.

Motswari Private Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s most awe inspiring wild places. It is a traditional style safari lodge set in the Timbavati Nature Reserve in Hoedspruit. It borders and opens into the Kruger National Park making it prime Big 5 country and an authentically African territory. Priding itself on being a luxurious, 4-star rated lodge Motswari offers guests the experience of being close to nature while simultaneously being able to indulge in the comforts made accessible by the hospitable staff.  Serenity is on the menu and guests are encouraged to relax and take in their natural surroundings during their stay. For this reason you’ll find no spas or gyms on the property but nature walks, swims in the pool, guided game drives and long lazy gazes at the African sunsets are welcome alternatives.

The accommodation is nothing short of dreamy. Being an exclusive lodge, Motswari houses a maximum of 30 guests at a time in 15 bungalows. Much of the appeal of this bushveld haven is the tranquillity found there which is made all the more possible due to the lack of crowds.

See more stirring images and read about a ranger’s first hand experiences during the flood by reading their blog.

http://www.motswari.co.za

Tel: +27 11 463 1990

Inside Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park within the remote and game rich Nsefu Sector, rests the picturesque Tena Tena bush camp where an iconic safari experience is the order of the day. It’s exclusive and personalised packages means that couples looking for a romantic getaway, or small groups and families wanting to share an enthralling safari holiday together, are well looked after.

The camp is set inside a grove of trees and bushes, on the plush banks of the Luangwa River. The main area is set on the river banks’ first tier, shaped around the termite mounds and tree roots to blend into the environment, with a large tented roof draped down from the trees. Here comfortable loungers are provided for guests to relax on, and watch game wandering on the opposite banks of the river. Meanwhile, a short distance below, on the edge of the Luangwa River, is the perfect setting for guests to enjoy sun downers and meals – which is often accompanied by a glorious African sunset and, occasionally, wallowing Hippos.

Not far from the camp’s shared area are the guests’ tents, each privately positioned, with a gorgeous view across the river. The rooms are quintessentially styled safari tents that portray an uncluttered ease, while delivering all the necessary comfort and amenities that you would require – a private veranda, dressing room, a large open air bathroom and outdoor shower. Overall, Tena Tena has five twin tents inclusive of one honeymoon suite.

The concentration of wildlife along the Luangwa River is among the most abundant in Africa and Tena Tena’s expert guides will make sure that you enjoy as much of the region’s wildlife, birds and varying vegetation and habitats as possible. A safari outing typically includes encountering herds of hippo (estimated to be around 50 per kilometre), families of zebra, enormous elephant herds, buffalo and birds. At the top of the food chain, Leopard and Lion are also commonly seen.

There is a variety of ways to appreciate the wildlife, from exciting walking safaris to day and night game drives. Meanwhile, for a cultural experience, a visit to the Kawaza Village is not to be missed.

Tena Tena forms part of the Robin Pope Safaris collection (known for their exceptional safari destinations and service) and a stay at Tena Tena can easily be combined with any of their other properties located in Zambia and Malawi. For bookings and to read more about Tena Tena bush camp, visit their website at: www.robinpopesafaris.net

Situated south of Zimbabwe’s second largest city, Bulawayo, and bordering the Matobo National Park, lies the picturesque Big Cave Camp. The campsite sits atop an enormous granite whaleback, which sits watch over the surrounding escarpment. The area portrays a rugged beauty; where creased wooded valleys intersperse extraordinary granite hillsides. And it is these granite ‘kopjies’ where Matobo Hills derives its name from – ‘Motobo’ meaning ‘Bald Heads’. The Matobo Hills is one of Zimbabwe’s World Heritage sites, this for the rich cultural diversity that this area has to offer. Big Cave Camp is situated within the World Heritage area.

The camp’s main lodge has a lavish communal dining area, named the Leopards Lair, which boasts a beautiful teak bar and comfortable lounge area. Meanwhile, a library, offering a tranquil, quiet corner, is also available. Outside the main lodge is a stunning sundeck and natural rock pool, which compliments the smooth granite backdrop while a boma (traditional meeting area) and fire pit is a fitting venue for guests to share their day’s adventures.

Seven luxury A-frame suites, constructed from granite and thatch, provide a comfortable and stylish escape for guests. Each suite comes with an en-suite bathroom and private balcony, overlooking the surrounding escarpment. For romantic couples the lodges honeymoon suite is the perfect option while the family rooms are ideal for those with small children.

When it comes to activities the Big Cave Camp is the perfect launching pad into the region.

Matobo hosts an abundance of natural diversity with a range of big game species such as giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, ostrich, sable antelope, impala, leopard as well as the endangered white and black Rhinoceros. Additionally, the region is famous for harbouring the world’s largest concentration of breeding Black Eagles.

Guests are spoilt for choice when deciding on how they would wish to encounter the area’s wildlife. Visitors can chose to get up close and personal by going on walking safaris, with a professional guide, take a mountain bike safari through the National Park, or simply sit back and enjoy the magnificent game viewing from the comfort of a 4X 4 vehicle. One of the notable safari offerings on offer are the rousing Rhino encounters. The nearby Whovi Game Park is a sanctuary for both White and Black Rhino. Viewing and photographing these magnificent creatures, in their natural habitat, is not to be missed.

Matobo Hills also holds a rich, cultural antiquity. Rock paintings, created over 2000 years ago (by Zimbabwe’s earliest inhabitants, the San people) scatter the caves and crevices throughout the region, and there are numerous sites on the Big cave property. The famous Bambata Cave, located 10km from the Big Cave Camp, possesses some of the most impressive collection of ancient bushman paintings in the area and is easily accessible from the Big Cave Camp.

For more information, galleries and contact details visit the the Big Cave Camp’s website at: www.bigcave.co.za

Situated inside Zimbabwe’s famous Hwange National Park is The Hide; an award winning safari camp renowned for its warmth, luxury accommodation and outstanding safari offering. This quintessential safari camp was established by the Preston family, in 1992, and, ever since, have been providing unforgettable safari experiences for families and couples alike.

The Hide’s locality, the Hwange National Park, is a wildlife sanctuary of divergent natural beauty, with a mixture of teak forests’ and sweeping planes, dotted with lush waterhole oases. The Park harbours a diverse range of wildlife, which includes hundreds of mammal species and more than 400 different species of birdlife. Prevalent animal sightings include; elephant, buffalo, giraffe and lion. The camp site itself is idyllically positioned near a waterhole, frequented by game, which means that guests are never too far from the sights and sounds of the African bush.

The Hide accommodates a maximum of 24 guests, which means that visitors are treated to excellent attention and service from their friendly and professional staff. Accommodation is typified by eight standard, four classic, six deluxe and two luxury tented suites (two honeymoon tents).

All suites are uniquely styled and planned out under charming thatch. The suite’s spacious rooms offer comfort while the natural light creates an easy, tranquil atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor showers are available while the deluxe suites offer beautiful indoor or outdoor bath tubs. Each suite has a veranda leading out to a stunning view of the waterhole and the beautiful landscape vista.

The Hide invites guest to enjoy their stay at their own pace; be it recharging at the main Lodge’s pool, or experiencing a thrilling encounter with Africa’s Big Five.

Ultimately, when it comes to the wildlife encounters, visitors are placed in the worthy care of the camps expert safari guides. From day and night game drives, safari walks and camping down in one of the underground hide sits, beside the waterhole, to enchanting bush sleep-outs; there is a variety of ways and strides to experience the African wild.

One of The Hide’s most arresting features is the Dove’s Nest tree house, built in a massive Lead Wood Tree. Inside this magnificently constructed tree house visitors are elevated above the bush, surrounded by nature and treated to a safari experience like no other. Here guests can enjoy glowing African sunsets, haunting night sounds and a romantic sleep-out under the stars.

For bookings, rates, images and detailed information about The Hide, log onto their website at www.thehide.com.

Inhabiting a quiet island on Lake Kariba, in Zimbabwe, rests the exclusive Musango Safari Camp. This privately owned and run retreat offers the perfect oasis from which to explore a region of outstanding natural beauty, plentiful wildlife and over 400 species of birds.

Musango Safari Camp presents practical comforts and a timeless charm. The camp is situated in lush riverine vegetation and faces east over the lake, towards the rising sun. In total, this private island camp hosts a maximum of 16 guests, providing a select atmosphere coupled with friendly and outstanding service.

Six luxury twin sized tents as well as two uniquely designed honeymoon cottages are available for couples and larger groups alike. The tented suites come with an en-suite bathroom, built from natural stone, while the honeymoon suites have private plunge pools.

One of the chief motivations to visit Musango Safari Camp is to experience the world class guided wildlife encounters. A diverse range of species roams the surrounding Matusadona National Park and The Musango Private Concession. These include: lion, rhino, elephant, hippo, Buffalo and Leopard, including a host of other grazing species. The reserve also remains one of the last sanctuaries for the endangered Black Rhino. Musango have been involved in reintroducing Black Rhino into the area and are experts in tracking and presenting this rare and magnificent animal to their visitors.

Some of the various ways to view wildlife are on foot, by vehicle or from the water. Walking safaris and Game Drives (escorted by expert, armed guides) present an exhilarating and personal way to meet the inhabitants of the area. Alternatively, guests can can cruise or canoe along Lake Kariba’s shoreline and admire the wonderful vistas and wildlife for a more close up and personal experience.

Exceptional game fishing is offered at Musango. One of the world’s most celebrated freshwater game fish, Hydrocynus vittatus, better known as the Tiger Fish, thrive in Lake Kariba. The aggressive predatory fish, with RAZOR SHARP teeth, grow large in the lake and present a thrilling challenge to anglers wanting to land the big one.

Musongo Safari Camp also offer some of the largest selection of activities in Zimbabwe. These include; canoeing, cruising, game drives, walks, fishing, village trips, Black Rhino tracking, specialist birding, dinosaur fossils, early stone age sites, lake dinners.

For more info on Musango Safari Camp, log onto their website – click here.

Hidden on the Zambezi River, within floating distance of the Victoria Falls, lies the private retreat of Sindabezi Island camp. Its eco minded approach and pristine location, out of sight from the usual tourist swarm, affords Sindabezi special appeal for the discerning traveller.

The luxury isle camp hosts five beautifully poised, thatched cottages, each occupying a reserved cove location on the island. The chalets drape over the Zambezi, amongst lush surroundings and are open fronted. Dressed in comfort and style they offer an air of relaxed exclusivity and serenity.

Chalet One, on the south side of Sindabezi, offers exquisite views across the bubbling channels, towards the banks of the Victoria Falls National Park. From the comfort of the room, guests often view game on the opposite bank. Chalets Two and Three are hidden away on the northern side and have private walkway access, while Chalet Four presents the perfect location to spot Hippo wallowing upstream. Chalet Five, the ‘Honeymoon suite’, is situated on a secluded sandy shore at the end of the island. It boasts an old fashioned clawfoot bathtub, big enough for two.

An evening at Sindabezi is a romantic, dreamlike affair. Glowing hurricane lamps and candles light up the island and meals are served on a sandbank, or wooden deck, under the stars. During the day a number of activities are available. The island has its own guide, boat and vehicle at guest’s disposal, perfect for exploring the Victoria Falls in their own time.

At the heart of Sindabezi lies a serious approach to eco-tourism.  Rated as one of the top ten eco lodges in Africa, according to Fodor’s travel website, the camp employs various environmentally friendly customs which include the use of recycled wood chips and solar power showers for heating, as well as the recycling of all grey water. The chalets are constructed using renewable materials and blend into the natural surroundings, with negligible impact on the environment. There is also no use of electricity on the island, a throwback to how safari bush camp holidays were intended to be.

A stay on Sindabezi Island is usually paired nights at the camp’s sister lodge, Tongabezi, which is a short boat ride away. View more details about Sindabezi by visiting the Sinda section on the Tongabezi website – click here

The luxurious, privately owned Tongabezi Lodge is located upstream from the mighty Victoria Falls, on the banks of the Zambezi River. Surrounded by evergreen riverside flora and boasting picturesque views, its spectacular setting provides an atmosphere of romance and exclusivity, all supported by elegant accommodation and warm, attentive service.

Tongabezi’s public spaces epitomize style and indulgence. The African Fusion design, furnishings and décor compliment the open plan ambience and the central lounge gracefully flows out onto a number of gorgeous decks, perched over the edge of the Zambezi, around the swimming pool and on various levels of the exclusive Lookout. Evocatively lit by candles and paraffin lights in the early evening guests experience a moment of African magic as the sun’s last glow dissolves into the waters of the great Zambezi.

A stone’s throw from the decks is a large waterfall pool and the multi story Lookout that was designed with private dining and relaxation in mind – idyllic chill zones catering for every mood. The lavishly equipped Lookout features dining and cocktail decks with hammocks, pillows and an intimate internet corner.

Tongabezi Lodge accommodation is spread along the waterfront and guests can choose from independently designed houses and cottages, catering for a variety of tastes and requirements. The Honeymoon House, Bird House, Tree House, Dog House, Nut House, River Cottages and Garden House all have their own individual magic. A noteworthy feature for all of the lodgings at Tongabezi is that each house and cottage comes with its very own valet who becomes a private concierge, taking care of guest’s needs throughout their stay.

For a full description of each cottage / house, as well as stunning 360 degree virtual tours and videos, visit the Tongabezi website – click here.

Tongabezi Lodge is matchless for honeymoons and unique romantic getaways. The entire lodge was built with passion and romance in mind. Each of the houses and cottages are beautifully crafted to create a feeling of privacy and intimacy. Tongabezi is also an ideal wedding destination. A Zambian marriage is legal and accepted throughout the world and Tongabezi will arrange a minister for the blessing; while flowers, menus, cakes, guest gifts and entertainment can all be taken care of by the lodge and its staff.

When it comes to activities during the day, guests are offered the freedom to do as much or as little as they wish. The most exciting activity offered is undoubtedly encounters with African wildlife. With Tongabezi’s inclusive game drives, bush walks and boating trips, getting up close and personal with the African bush and its plains game is part and parcel of the experience. Meanwhile, the Victoria Falls is another attraction which can be experienced on foot, in the National Park, from inside the gorge, from Livingstone Island or arranged to be viewed from the air. Alternately, a thrilling boat trip to Livingstone Island, where David Livingstone caught his first glimpse of the mighty falls, is also available. Other activities include: canoeing, a floating sanpan date, fishing, sunrise and sunset boating, visits to Simonga Village and museum tours.

Dining is an exercise in unadulterated delight at Tongabezi. Guests have the choice of enjoying meals at a variety of different venues – at the main lodge or at their own cottage or house. Guests can also book a meal on one of the Lookout decks or enjoy the novelty of dining on a floating river sanpan. An internationally skilled chef prepares a variety of freshly seasonal dishes with fresh produce grown in the lodge’s organic vegetable and herb gardens and fruit orchard.

For more detailed information, stunning imagery and accommodation availability, visit www.tongabezi.com.

Inside Zambia’s Zambezi valley, one of Southern Africa’s glorious natural Edens, resides the Lower Zambezi National Park. Established on the border of this stunning 4000 square kilometre reserve lies Chongwe River Camp, one of Africa’s most esteemed safari lodges.

It is their idyllic setting and celebrated service, where guests are treated as if they are ‘home away from home’, which has merited the lodge its prized standing in the safari industry. This hospitality is reinforced by a variety of luxury tent style accommodations, offering guests comfortable and unhindered freedom and a serene basecamp from which to explore the many ecosystems and abundant wildlife that abound in the park.

Their Classic Tents, perched on the bank of the Chongwe River, present incredible views of the Chongwe River and are the perfect retreat for couples. The rooms present pert, spacious lodgings and are decorated by cool and original décor which complements their beautiful surroundings. On the other hand, the Cassia and Albida tented suites offer a more secluded and exclusive site at the camp. Both suites come with a private butler, feature a plunge pool and have a charming fire pit. The spacious colonial-styled Albida perfectly accommodates a family of four, while the Cassia makes an ideal romantic escape for two.

Meanwhile, not far from Chongwe River Camp, are alternate accommodation choices like Chongwe’s sister camp, Kasaka River Lodge – another stunning tented camp, located 4 kilometres upstream. For that extra touch of class, the sophisticated Chongwe River House, which accommodates up to 8 guests, did not win the ‘Best Safari House Award’ at the Good Safari Guide Awards 2011 for nothing. And for those wanting extreme seclusion, the private Tsika Island (35 kilometres upstream from Chongwe) is a select island retreat surrounded by the Zambezi, hosting up to 6 guests.

Wherever you choose to stay in Chongwe, there is always a range of quality safari offerings and activities at your disposal. These include game drives deep inside the Lower Zambezi National Park and further jaunts to the Chiawa Partnership Park. For a more tranquil admiration of the fauna and flora, you can also enjoy a relaxing boat safari on the Zambezi, while canoeing is another brilliant and personal way to explore the area. Anglers, on the other hand, wanting to land the big one, will find Zambezi fishing excursions as exciting as they come.

Chongwe River Camp is committed to responsible tourism through nature conservation and the upliftment of the people of the Lower Zambezi valley.

Log onto Chongwe River Camp’s website – www.chongwe.com – for more info, camp rates and a selection of stunning imagery.