Kwazulu-Natal:

A unique experience with lush vegetation, rolling hills, and an impressive diversity of ecosystems. Highlights on our trips to this region have included viewing the hippos and diverse birdlife in the Isimangliso Wetlands Park and the packs of endangered wild dogs in Hluhluwe National Park. The handful of lodges in this area offer a world class experience, with the option to enjoy a beach and bush experience within the same stay.

What makes it unique: Lush subtropical terrain and the opportunity to combine beach and bush experiences in one trip.

Getting there: Internal flight to Durban, followed by a 2–3 hour road transfer depending on your lodge’s location. Federal Air offers internal flights to the private reserve, Phinda.

Western Cape:

With the rising demand for safari experiences close to Cape Town, there have been a few more premium lodges added to the Western Cape safari stable. The semi-desert arid setting of these lodges gives one the sense of endless space, with a nightsky that glitters from horizon to horizon. Sitting around a fire pit under this diamond sky has always been a highlight for us. At some of the newer lodges, the big cats are in a separate, fenced off area whilst the wildlife stocks increase before the cats will be free-roaming.

What makes it unique: The semi-desert landscape and it’s convenient proximity to Cape Town.

Getting there: Most lodges are within a 3- hour drive of Cape Town. Private ground transfers or scenic helicopter flights to some of the lodges can be arranged.

Eastern Cape:

It’s lush vegetation and aloes are a picturesque canvas on which to marvel at the game rich sights that await you in this region. Whether you’re accessing your lodge by river or by road, you won’t be disappointed with the quality here. The area is Malaria-free making this an attractive option, especially for families with small children. We took our daughter here when she was only 9 months old and a highlight was the boat trip up the river to the lodge we stayed at.

What makes it unique: Malaria-free with river valleys and options of riverside lodges—some of which are accessed by boat.

Getting there: Internal flight to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), followed by road and/or boat transfers to the lodge.

Northern Cape:

Home to the Kalahari Desert, this is the place for off-the-beaten-path adventurers. With its red sandy dunes and primary blue skies, the Northern Cape offers a stark yet striking beauty. From meercats to big cats, with the dust hanging on golden light at dusk and the fiery skies at dawn, this area makes for a photographer’s dream. We recently visited this region and we simply can’t wait to return. Next time we’ll ensure we have better photographic equipment (rather than using binoculars combined with a mobile phone camera lens to capture leopards in trees)!

What makes it unique: Remote wilderness with red sand dunes and the abundance of the beautiful Oryx.

Getting there: Charter flight direct to South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu Kalahari or internal flight to Upington or Kimberley, followed by road transfers.

A gin and tonic never tasted better than when you’re sipping it watching the sunset over the African bushveldt. Let us help you plan your dream African Safari so you can experience it for yourself.