CUSTOM SOUTHERN AFRICA - VERSION 2

Transcription

1 CUSTOM SOUTHERN AFRICA - VERSION 2 Specially prepared for Jeanette Jamieson May 4 16, 2018 DAILY ITINERARY Southern Africa offers a multitude of settings and experiences for the safari enthusiast, and this grand itinerary is a sampler of some of the best. Begin in South Africa's famed Sabi Sand Reserve, home to plentiful numbers of the Big Five and a host of other classic species. Stop at Victoria Falls to marvel at the world's most astounding wall of water, then continue to Botswana's most noted wilderness area to view even more abundant wildlife in the Okavango Delta. Great herds of game are drawn to perennial water while large prides of lion and other predators steal behind, making for thrilling encounters. Cosmopolitan Cape Town provides the perfect conclusion to an epic Southern African safari. DAY 1: MAY 4, JOHANNESBURG Arrive Johannesburg today. After completing all customs and immigrations formalities and baggage claim, exit into the arrivals hall where you will be met by a Natural Habitat Adventures representative holding a signboard with your name. They will assist you to your hotel shuttle for your transfer to the hotel. At the Southern Sun O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel, guest rooms are spacious, warmly decorated and offer a comfortable haven for international travelers. Though the hotel is located so conveniently near the airport, it is designed to offer a peaceful night s sleep without disturbances from the airport or nearby traffic. Guests may choose from a wide selection of room types, all furnished to include every modern convenience and amenity. The popular Bernoulli s Restaurant has earned high praise for its exceptional service and high-quality international cuisine. Diners may choose from a buffet or à la carte menu offering a wide selection of Mediterranean-style dishes, while the attractive wine bar with a world-class wine list is the perfect setting for a post-flight or pre-dinner drink. Whether it s a quick snack or an indulgent meal, you can find it at the Southern Sun. As a pre- or post-adventure layover location, the Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport Hotel is an excellent choice. Cosmopolitan Johannesburg is the jumping-off point for most South African safaris. The city of four million is a vibrant mélange of colors and cultures. Food and music are central to life in

2 Joburg, and its clubs and pubs are an integral part of the social fabric. Tour Soweto or visit the Apartheid Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Johannesburg s history, travails and rich multicultural heritage. Overnight Southern Sun Airport Hotel (breakfast included) DAYS 2 4: MAY 5 7, SABI SAND RESERVE Transfer to the airport this morning for your scheduled South African Airlink flight to Skukuza Airport (air cost separate times TBA). Upon arrival, you will have an onward transfer to MalaMala Main Camp. MalaMala Main Camp accommodates guests in 18 rooms and suites. Constructed in a traditional thatch bungalow style, they provide a comfortable respite from the excitement of each day s events in the bush. All have en suite facilities, individual temperature control and direct-dial telephones. The common areas include a traditional boma-style dining are area and an airconditioned library with satellite television, Internet connectivity and DVD player. Massage service is available upon request, and the restaurant has a fully stocked wine cellar that features some of South Africa s finest wines. Main Camp was designed to allow guests to enjoy its spectacular setting from every vantage point. Rolling green lawns studded with huge, bird-filled trees lead toward the Sand River, where antelope and elephants feast on succulent greenery. Guests can enjoy these magnificent views while cooling off in the large infinity pool or while relaxing on the deck in the shade of a jackalberry tree. MalaMala Game Reserve is justifiably renowned among safari aficionados for its abundant wildlife, stunning scenic beauty and diversity of habitats. The Big Five lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, elephant and black rhinoceros are nearly guaranteed here, where the Sand River winds its way through the old-growth riverine forests, providing animals with a plentiful supply of water year round, but especially during the dry winter months. The reserve is particularly renowned for the quality of its leopard viewing. According to the reserve s painstakingly recorded wildlife viewing statistics, 99% of guests who spend two nights at MalaMala experience more than one leopard sighting a day. Twice-daily nature drives and night drives are conducted in open 4-wheel drive safari vehicles within the 40,000-acre private reserve. Guests can also explore the area on guided nature walks in the company of a highly knowledgeable naturalist guide, seeking out the more than 200 species of animals that thrive here. Overnights MalaMala Main Camp (full board basis all meals included) DAYS 5 & 6: MAY 8 & 9, VICTORIA FALLS Transfer today to Nelspruit's Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your scheduled South African Airlink flight (air cost separate times TBA) to Livingstone, Zambia. Upon arrival and completing baggage claim, you will be met by a Natural Habitat Adventures representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to The Royal Livingstone. The Royal Livingstone features 173 en suite, air-conditioned guest rooms ranging from twin- and

3 king-bedded rooms to larger suites, as well as 17 individual residences. Each room is decorated with blend of Victorian elegance and African warmth and boasts a private terrace looking out toward the Zambezi River. The elegant lobby is open to the outdoors where you ll find a swimming pool on the expansive lawn and a broad deck built over the river the perfect afternoon spot to savor a cool drink and view the spray of the falls. Zebra and giraffe often wander the grounds. High tea, dinner and drinks are served in the lounge, bar and dining room, or a private dinner can be arranged beneath the "Monkey Tree." The spa offers a full range of treatments in a river-facing gazebo or indoors. The highlight of any visit to Livingstone is of course Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. A mile and a half wide and 350 feet high, the sheer volume of its spray earned it the name Mosi oa Tunya from the local people, or Smoke That Thunders the same name that the surrounding national park now bears. Visitors can view the falls on guided tours, from rain forest trails on self-guided walks in the national park, or on a helicopter or microlight flight. But the falls aren t the only attraction around Livingstone. Fishing, canoeing excursions and sunset cruises show a tamer side of the Zambezi, while whitewater rafting provides thrills in the gorge below. Visitors may also ride horseback or elephant-back. Visits to local villages and museums in Livingstone can also be arranged. Overnights The Royal Livingstone (breakfast included) DAYS 7 9: MAY 10 12, OKAVANGO DELTA By road and ferry today, journey across the Chobe River to Botswana s Chobe National Park, known for its vast elephant herds a population that exceeds 70,000. On our boat cruise down the river, braided with myriad channels, waterbirds abound, including herons and storks, and hippos and crocodiles are prolific along the muddy banks. Keep an eye out for egrets perched on the backs of elephants cooling off in the water. This afternoon, fly from Kasane to Jacana Camp in the Okavango Delta. Located on an island surrounded by a seasonally inundated floodplain and papyrus swamps, Jacana Camp consists of five Meru-style tents built on raised wooden decks, with panoramic views of the Okavango Delta. Each tent has an enclosed en suite bathroom featuring a roofless shower, which is lit by dappled sunlight or by the stars at night. Multiple windows ensure excellent wildlife viewing from the cozy seating area or from the double beds. The main dining area sits on an elevated platform between two magnificent sycamore fig trees and is surrounded by wild date palms. Jacana Camp also features a relaxing bar and lounge with an area for open fires under the stars. A plunge pool offers a chance to cool off in the midday sun. Lying in the very heart of the Okavango Delta, the Jao Concession embodies all the natural treasures of the region. Thriving populations of large animals are found here including elephant, buffalo, hippo and crocodile. In the dry season wildebeest and zebra abound, attracting predators like lion, leopard and cheetah. Birdlife is abundant along the winding waterways, including Pel s fishing owl, African and lesser jacanas, slaty egret, African pygmy-goose and western banded snake-eagle. Jacana Camp is set in one of the most densely populated wetland

4 areas for sitatunga and red lechwe. Activities at Jacana Camp include mokoro trips through the green reed-lined channels as well as wildlife drives from October through April when floodwaters have receded (can change month-to-month subject to water levels). Lush palm islands, like the one on which Jacana Camp is built, dot the water, inviting exploration. Two platform hides are available nearby for close-up wildlife viewing. Overnights Jacana Camp (full board basis all meals included) DAYS 10 12: MAY 13 15, CAPE TOWN Arrive Cape Town today after a scheduled flight from Maun, Botswana to Cape Town (air cost separate times TBA). Upon arrival and completing baggage claim, you will be met by a Natural Habitat Adventures representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to More Quarters. More Quarters is a charming hamlet that comprises 15 one-bedroom apartments of 700 sq ft, three two-bedroom apartments of 915 sq ft and Redcliffe House, which is a four-bedroom, 2,850 sq ft private home with its own pool. The apartments are situated on neighboring cobblestone cul de sacs, with security gates and private entrances. While boasting privacy and independence, there is also a lovely main house with a lounge, fireplace, library and breakfast room along with a 24-hour concierge and security. The second floor breakfast room has grand windows with 180 degree views. Each piece of furniture and textile is unique, from antiques to artwork to modern pieces, all lending themselves to a warm feeling of home. Located at the Southern tip of the African continent where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet, Cape Town and the Western Cape are strikingly beautiful. At the foot of Table Mountain, the city of 3 million is a charismatic blend of cultures, renowned for its scenic setting, creative cuisine and world-class local wines. Outside the city, enjoy spectacular beaches, sheer sea cliffs along the Cape of Good Hope, and wildlife encounters from penguins to sharks. Overnights More Quarters (breakfast included) Private Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour: Depart the city along the Atlantic Seaboard past the coastal suburbs of Sea Point, Bantry Bay and Clifton and stop for a photograph and to enjoy the view of Table Mountain s towering Twelve Apostles. In Hout Bay, board a boat to view the Cape Fur Seal colony on Duiker Island (weather permitting). Journey over the 1,968-foot mountain pass of Chapman's Peak, past Noordhoek with a chance to see southern right whales offshore from June to November. See the fynbos vegetation, unique to the cape, viewing birds like the African black oystercatcher and Cape sugarbird, as well as Cape mountain zebra, bontebok and baboon as you enter the Cape of Good Hope National Park. Take in the views before lunch at a coastal restaurant and a visit to Boulders Beach penguin colony, then head home through the seaside havens of St. James and Muizenberg. Cape Winelands Tour: Depart the city to the Winelands region in the nearby Boland Mountains, where you can sample the region's high quality reds, whites and Cap Classiques (South African "Champagne") in the towns of Stellenbosch, Simonsberg, Paarl and Franschhoek. Enjoy a

5 delicious lunch at one of the classic restaurants in the area. Your tour may take in sights like the Afrikaans Language Monument with its panoramic mountain views, the historic estate of Boschendal with its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch buildings and priceless period furniture, while idyllic Franschhoek, nestled in the valley where the French Huguenots settled in 1688, is a delight for antique lovers and gastronomes (the town boasts some world-famous eateries). Stellenbosch, South Africa s second-oldest town, provides another glimpse of classic 17th and 18th century Cape style with a chance to browse quaint Dorp Street, visit the museum or explore the many galleries and shops of this university town. DAY 13: MAY 16, DEPARTURE Today you will have a private road transfer to the airport for your departing flight. Since our adventures specialize in viewing wildlife, every effort is made to plan itineraries where wildlife is known to inhabit. However, the animals we visit live wild and free and we cannot fully predict or control their migratory patterns (nor would we want to). In an attempt to locate wildlife, which may have deviated from its normal pattern, or in the interest of traveler comfort or safety, we may be required to make reasonable changes in itineraries. Your guide will determine your final activities in the best interest of the group.

6 ADVENTURE INFORMATION ADVENTURE FEE & DEPOSIT $8925 per person This is a proposal only. No services have been confirmed or booked on your behalf until a 25% non-refundable deposit is made and services are confirmed by local suppliers. INCLUDED IN YOUR ADVENTURE COST All accommodations on a double occupancy basis All meals at camps and lodges Breakfast daily in city hotels Alcoholic and soft-drink beverages at some camps and lodges (see accommodation amenities below) Services of camp guides and staff Scheduled activities on safari and excursions as noted Road transfers as noted Air transfers/shared charter flights as noted Laundry service at some camps and lodges (see accommodation amenities below) Relevant park and conservancy fees Accommodation taxes, applicable tourism levies and Value Added Tax (VAT) or Government Sales Tax (GST) Complimentary medical evacuation insurance Complimentary luxury airport lounge pass High-quality safari duffle for every passenger, appropriate for your trip, so that packing is easy and you don t have to interpret strict luggage requirements NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR ADVENTURE COST Travel to the start and end point of the itinerary Lunch, dinner and drinks in city hotels Alcoholic and soft-drink beverages at some camps and lodges (see accommodation amenities below) Premium brand alcoholic beverages and imports (see accommodation amenities below) Laundry service at some hotels (see accommodation amenities below) Passport and visa fees where applicable Gratuities for staff, guides, trackers, porters, transfer drivers, and any meals or drinks not included in your itinerary, etc. Any newly-implemented government taxes, levies, fuel or industry increases which are beyond our control International airport departure taxes applicable from manned airports only, which is to be paid in US$ cash on departure unless included in your ticket cost Any items of a personal nature (souvenirs, massage, drinks and meals not included, etc.) Commercial flight from Maun, Botswana to Cape Town, South Africa on Day 10 Commercial flights from Johannesburg to Skukuza/Sabi Sand on Day 2 and from Kruger Airport to Livingstone on Day 5 Cancellation and baggage insurance

7 ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES & AMENITIES The following details include available facilities, amenities and services at each of your accommodations. Note that while we do update this information regularly, these details can and do change frequently and thus should be used as a guideline only. Please contact your Adventure Concierge team if you have any questions. SOUTHERN SUN AIRPORT HOTEL JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA En suite bathroom with tub or shower Shampoo, soap and lotion Hair dryer Air conditioning Mini bar Tea/coffee in room Satellite television/ DVD 220v charging outlets in room Central swimming pool Spa (extra cost) Fitness center Restaurant and bar Room service Complimentary airport shuttle Business center Wi-Fi in room Laundry (extra cost) Credit cards accepted MALAMALA MAIN CAMP SABI SAND RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA En suite bathroom with tub and shower Shampoo, soap and lotion Hair dryer Air conditioning Room fan Mini bar Tea/coffee in room 220v charging outlets in room Central pool Massage treatments (extra cost) Fitness center Wi-Fi in main area Laundry included Local drinks included (house alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks) Credit cards accepted (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE VICTORIA FALLS, BOTSWANA High tea 24-hour room service Air conditioning Flat screen satellite TV Wi-Fi Swimming pool Spa Hair dryer Mini bar Laundry service available (extra cost) Tea/coffee making facilities Insect repellent spray provided

8 JACANA CAMP OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA En suite bathroom with shower Shampoo, soap, lotion and insect repellent Room fan Tea/coffee in room 220v charging outlets in room Central plunge pool Laundry included Local drinks included (house alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks) Credit cards accepted (Visa and MasterCard) No air conditioning, hair dryer, telephone, Internet or cellular coverage MORE QUARTERS CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA En suite bathroom with shower, tubs in some rooms Shampoo, soap and lotion Hair dryer Air conditioning Mini bar Tea/coffee in room Satellite television 220v charging outlets in room Virgin Active Gym nearby (extra cost) Restaurant (breakfast only) and room service (lunch and dinner) Room service 7 am to 9:30 pm Wi-Fi in room Laundry (extra cost) Credit cards accepted (Visa, MasterCard, Diner's, American Express) AVERAGE CLIMATE DURING YOUR SAFARI It is important to remember that the below information is based on general climate and weather patterns so the conditions during your visit could be quite different from what is listed below. Please check the current weather on the Internet ( or so you can be prepared for any unseasonable weather. SOUTH AFRICA May is the beginning of winter in South Africa, and it can get quite cold with temperatures dipping as low as the mid-40s F. Travelers will want to be prepared for the cold nights and early mornings with warm sleepwear, a windproof outer jacket, a fleece or heavy sweater, a warm hat, gloves and scarf. As the days warm up, you will want to be able to shed these layers and be prepared with lightweight clothing including a short-sleeved shirt. High temperatures will be in the upper 60s to mid-70s F, so shorts may not be necessary, although zip-off pants are great since they give you the option if needed. Cape Town usually begins its cooler, rainy season in May, with a mix of sunny, overcast and wet days. It can be warm when the sun is out, but it may also be quite cool layering is key.

9 AVERAGE TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL - MAY Region Low High Rainfall Johannesburg 48 F 66 F 0.7 in 8 C 18 C 18 mm Sabi Sand Reserve 50 F 81 F 0.43 in 10 C 27 C 11 mm Cape Town 50 F 70 F 2.54 in 10 C 21 C 65 mm BOTSWANA May is usually the beginning of the dry winter season in Botswana. Rain is less likely. The nights start to cool down, with temperatures usually in the 40s and 50s F. You will want a fleece or warm sweater to put on once the sun goes down, and you may also want a warm hat, gloves and scarf for nights and early mornings. Daytime temperatures continue to cool down during this time and are usually in the upper 70s to mid 80s F, so you will want warm layers for morning wildlife drives that you can peel off as it warms up later in the day. Zip-off pants work well. A fleece and a warm hat, gloves and scarf may be helpful when it cools down. May is a brilliant time for photography with a combination of clear skies and a verdant green backdrop. May to October is the height of the season for fishing, boating and drifting through the delta by traditional mokoro, in combination with wildlife drives. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL - MAY Region Low High Rainfall Victoria Falls (Zambia) 55 F 79 F 0.12 in 12 C 26 C 3 mm Okavango Delta 45 F 79 F 0.2 in 7 C 26 C 5 mm