Travel Bulletin Southern & East Africa Supplement 2015

Your one-stop guideto all the latest news and developments

in Southern & East Africa

February 2015

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3Its no wonder Africa is one of the worldstop holiday destinations. As this yearscolourful supplement demonstrates, Africa

is brimming with iconic sights to see. Home of the big-five, the rare mountain

gorilla, Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta and theGarden Route to name just a few, the list ofAfricas attractions can hold its own againsteven the stiffest of competition. And I

havent even mentioned the hundreds of miles of idyllicIndian Ocean beaches that fringe the continents east coast.

You can sell Africa with confidence as not only are the lodges andhotels of a high standard, the quality of the guiding in the wildlifereserves is superb. The classic safari destinations of Botswana, SouthAfrica and Tanzania continue to attract travellers, with Kenyas MasaiMara and its many diverse game reserves still in the frame, despitethe countrys current challenges. New lodges in Tanzania and thegrowing recognition of the game-rich Selous, with its easy access toZanzibar, partly account for significant growth in interest here.

Demand is growing for walking and canoe safaris in Zambia, self-drive trips through the vast deserts of Namibia and South Africasscenic KwaZulu Natal, as well as cultural experiences such asEthiopias Timket festival and Swazilands annual Reed Dance.Madagascar with its adorable lemurs often appeals to customerslooking for an adventurous second or third trip to Africa.

The huge choice of destinations and accommodation in Africameans there is something for everyone. There is nothing quite asromantic as a safari honeymoon followed by a secluded beachescape, but at the same time, family-friendly hotels and the array ofoutdoor activities mean customers with teenagers are also spoilt forchoice. Golf, wildflower and cultural tours are top quality andwheelchair accessible safaris have opened up more customeropportunities in both Southern and East Africa.

The advantageous sterling to rand exchange rate continues toencourage travel to both South Africa and Namibia, and there hasbeen a increase in two and three-centre holidays. A safari and beachcombination has long been an Africa staple, and now visitors areadding the Victoria Falls to a South Africa and Mauritius holiday, orvisiting Zanzibars lesser-known Pemba and Mafia islands after anEast Africa safari. Popular with honeymooners, the beaches ofMozambique and the Seychelles are also back on customers radar.

There has never been a better time to encourage your customers tovisit this sunny continent as this supplement shows. Claire Farley, founder, 2by2 Holidays

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Design/Layout: Thomas Davies, Lee TelotPrinted by: Buxton Press - Cover Picture: shutterstock - ISSN: 0956-2419

Hotel hotline - 8

Whats new - 4

Safari - 10

Best of the rest - 21

SOUTHERN & EASTAFRICA

All About

Rwanda - 17

Weddings and honeymoons - 14

Culture - 19

All About Southern & East Africa

CONTENTS

Holidays for less than - 22


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Southern and East Africa is gearing up for a busy 2015 asfavourable exchange rates look set to make some of the destinations great value for money this year

COUNTRIES IN Southern and EastAfrica have had their fair share of upsand downs over the last year or so.

Ebola has been the biggest negativenews, of course, says 2by2 Holidaysfounder Claire Farley, even thoughLondon is closer to Sierra Leone thaneither Kenya or South Africa.

However, while the outbreak of theebola virus has dominated the newsheadlines in the UK, Farley says there is alot to be positive about.

The weakness of the rand has madeboth South Africa and Namibia incrediblygood-value-for-money destinations atpresent, especially as both thesecountries are ideal for self-driving, sheadds.

Cox and Kings has also seen strongdemand for South Africa and Namibia,which its spokesperson Katie Cosstickputs down to the favourable exchangerate, and a 100% growth in private travelto Botswana last year.

People are exploring further afield too,says Farley. Places such as Madagascarare increasingly popular, and twinning abeach holiday with something moreunusual such as a few days of an activity

holiday in Reunion with a relaxing breakin Mauritius afterwards is in demand.

Overland tours are also growing inpopularity, particularly with middle-agedpeople, adds Farley.

The tours involve driving in rugged4x4 adventure trucks by day and sleepingin rest camps or dome tents in theevening. This is a very affordable way ofdoing gorilla tracking, for example, whichis usually very expensive.

So, here is a round-up of some of thebiggest news coming out of the region for2015.

New opportunities for Victoria FallsA new international airport is poised toopen at Victoria Falls in April that willhave the capacity to welcome the AirbusA380.

The new airport and runway will meanthat there is scope for the number ofdomestic and international visitors to theattraction triple to 500,000 and 1.2million respectively.

Tourism officials are hopeful that thenew airport will mean that Victoria Fallswill no longer be just a one-stop touristdestination but a start-off point for travel

to the region.Cox and Kings spokeswoman Katie

Cosstick welcomes the new opening,saying: This new airport will really helptourism to Zimbabwe and comes on theback of the introduction of the combinedZimbabwe/Zambia visa which wasintroduced in November.

The new univisa, also known as theKaza visa means, visitors can purchasejust one visa which will allow themmultiple entry into both Zimbabwe andZambia for a period of 30 days. It alsocovers day trips to Botswana at a cost of$50.

Robin Pope Safaris has welcomed thenew visa as it will save time andmoney. The specialist has the 10-roomStanley Safari Lodge in Zambia, just twomiles from Victoria Falls. The lodge whichborders the Mosi-ao-Tunya National Parkcosts from just 252 per person per nightand includes full board, airport transfers,a guided tour of the Victoria Falls and avillage and museum tour.robinpopesafaris.net

On the upCox and Kings has introduced a range of

The right rate ofsuccess


Cox and Kings has added a new Safari, Ocean andCape tour which features a stay in Cape Town


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new tour options to South Africa on theback of year-on-year increases inpassenger numbers to South Africa.

The escorted tours specialist has addeda number of new self-drive optionsincluding itineraries that depart fromJohannesburg, a selection of small-groupitineraries and suggestions for exploringlesser-visited parts of the country.

Pearls of the Limpopo is a new 11-day/eight-night, self-drive itinerary to thenortheastern part of South Africa, hometo the mountainous Highveld andwildlife-rich Lowveld in the northernreaches of the Kruger National Park.Prices start at 1,965 per person

The new 13-day/10-night Safari, Oceanand Cape escorted tour takes in thehighlights of the country including asafari in the Eastern Cape, the GardenRoute along the coast to the Winelandsand finishes with a three-night stay inCape Town. This experience is priced at3,495 per person

Cox and Kings has also developed acollection of luxury-in-style suggestionsto showcase the very best of eachcountry featuring the most luxuriousaccommodation.

These include the 11-day/eight-nightNamibia in Style itinerary priced from6,675 per person, the 13-day/10-nightSouth Africa in Style itinerary from7,995 per person and Kenya in Stylefrom 4,975 per person for a 13-day/11-night itinerary.

Botswana in Style is a 10-day/seven-night itinerary priced from 4,395 perperson, incluging overnight stays inBelmond camps throughout.coxandkings.co.uk

Walk on the wild side2by2 Holidays has a tour for 2015 that isguaranteed to appeal to all of thoseamateur botanists in the UK.

The 13-night Wildflowers and Gardens:Namaqualand and Cape Town journeysthrough the wildflowers of the Cape andNamaqualand in South Africa, whichbloom once a year in August andSeptember.

The tour will be guided by thehorticulturalist and TV personality KeithKirsten and will visit Kirstenbosch andother private gardens including IdaRaymondo and Harold Porter BotanicalGardens.

Visits to vineyards for wine tasting alsofeature along with the chance to gowhale watching at Hermanus.

Prices lead in at 2,195 per personexcluding flights, and the tour departs on12 August 2015.

Also, another one-off tour for 2016 isthe 12-night South Africa Golf Tour toCape Town and the Garden Route.

Keen golfers will get the chance toplay at some of South Africas finestchampionship courses in Cape Town,Stellenbosch and the Garden Route withsightseeing and wine-tasting included.

The maximum handicap for men is 30and for women 36, with a full schedule ofactivities available for non-golfingpartners.

Prices start at 1,995 per personexcluding international flights and thedeparture date is 8 January 2016.2by2holidays.co.uk

Its a Dream for Kenya AirwaysThe national airline has introduced theBoeing 787 Dreamliner to its Heathrow toNairobi service.

The aircraft, which replaces the B777-200 on the route, has a capacity of 234


Wildlife Worldwides 10-day Marsh Lions Revisited tour headsback to the Masai Mara to visit the pride of Lions that inspired the

March Lions book more than 30 years ago


combine safari experiences with luxurious accommodation for the trip of a lifetime.

Botswana Tourism, 6 Stratford PlaceLondon, W1C 1AY

+44 (0)207 647 1018 [email protected]

botswanatourism.org.uk

exciting & exclusive adventures...

21:01

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custom-made seats 30 fully flat inPremier World and 204 in Economy and it will fly into Kenya Airways newterminal at Jomo Kenyatta InternationalAirport in Nairobi.

The inaugural flight last monthtransported two rescued circus lionesses,sisters Maggie and Sonja, to begin theirnew life at the Born Free Big Cat rescueand Education Centre at Shamwari GameReserve in South Africa.

The lionesses were given a big send-offby singer, TV star and Born Free patronPeter Andre. kenya-airways.com

In the pictureA game reserve in the Northern Tuli regionof Botswana has introduced a newcustom-built C4 photo vehicle.

Mashatu Game Reserve is now offeringits guests the chance to unleash theirinner photographer in this vehicle whichwas built by the same wildlifephotographers who carved out the world-famous underground photo hides at

Mashatu. The vehicle is equipped withsliding gimble heads allowing for quickand well-supported photography in a 270degree radius for each photographer.

There are waterproof bag storagecompartments and two rows of seats inthe back of the vehicle, one row for eachphotographer. The vehicle comes with aspecialised photographic guide and aMashatu field ranger.mashatu.com

The learning curveSerena Hotels has introduced a number ofnew activities for guests staying in theirlodges in Tanzania and Kenya.These new activities include:

lessons from resident chefs on how tocook Tanzanian or Maasai dishes;lessons in how to speak Swahili; andlectures about Maasai culture, dancesand bead making.

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge in Tsavo,Kenya has expanded its activities withnew photography lessons, aerobics and

bicycle riding. Guests can also learnbasket weaving and bead making fromthe Kibwezi Women group.

Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp in Kenyahas introduced horse riding, bushbarbecue lunches and dinner,sundowners and romantic lake-sidebreakfasts, while guests at AmboseliSerena Safari lodge is offering its gueststhe chance to learn more aboutSerenas environment conservationlectures and plant a tree at AmboseliSerena Safari lodge. There's also theoption to go on birding safaris, or ridecamels with Mount Kilimanjaro as theback drop.

Other new activities include hyena talksat Mara Serena Safari lodge, wildlifemovies at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodgeor nature walks and Moorland hikes atSerena Mountain Lodge.

serenahotels.com

The big Blue TrainThe luxury train experience between CapeTown and Pretoria is offering agents the


chance to earn shopping vouchers onbookings they make before 31 March.

Agents who book their clients in asuite on the iconic Blue Train can win30 worth of shopping vouchers.

One voucher can be claimed per suiteand any bookings made before the end ofMarch must be forwarded on to EthosMarketing by emailing the details [email protected] or calling01403 243 619.

The luxury train operator has also puttogether a special offer for guestsbooking and travelling on the Blue Trainbefore 31 March, which includes thechoice of one free night on safari atCamp Jabulani, nestled within the BigFive Kapama Game Reserve in Limpopoor two free nights at the Blue Trainspartner hotels in Pretoria or Cape Town.

Should they opt for the safari, the freenight includes a game drive and mealsbut excludes drinks and elephant-backsafaris. If they choose instead to use thefree nights in Cape Town and/or Pretoriathey can opt to stay two consecutivenights at one property (excluding the Taj)or split them with one free night in each

city before and after the journey. Partner hotels include the Sheraton

Pretoria Hotel and Castello Di Monte inPretoria and The Westin and Taj in CapeTown and guests will be booked by TheBlue Train as its special guests. bluetrain.co.za

Pride in the name of loveWildlife Worldwide is offering wildlifeenthusiasts the opportunity to take partin a one-off safari this September toKenyas Masai Mara led by wildlife authorand journalist Brian Jackman, and Big CatDiary presenter and photographerJonathan Scott.

The journey will return to the locationwhere the Marsh Lions were born. Thepride became the subject of a best-selling book of the same name, written in1982 by Jackman and Scott, whofollowed the lives of the Musiara lions forfive years.

The lions they knew 33 years ago,which lived on an expanse of reedswamp, are long since gone. However thepride is still there, along with some of theleopards and cheetahs that achieved

fame in BBC TVs Big Cat Diary series.The 10-day Marsh Lions Revisited trip

will offer 16 guests the chance toobserve big cats up close, as well as avariety of other animals.

The tour features four nights atGovernors Private Camp, where Jackmanand Scott will regale guests with theirpersonal experiences and insights. Therewill be opportunities to enjoy the birdlife,improve photography skills under Scottsguidance, and visit a traditional Masaimanyatta (settlement).

The group will then transfer toElephant Pepper Camp in the adjoiningMara North Conservancy for three nightsto explore Leopard Gorge and thesurrounding area.

Prices for the 10-day experience startat 6,495 per person based on twosharing, including seven nights full boardin tented camp accommodation, returninternational flights, domestic flights,transfers, game drives, scheduledactivities and guiding. The tour departson 24 September this year.wildlifeworldwide.com

Jump on the safari treadmillThe safari lodge located in Kenyas LewaWildlife Conservancy has jumped on thegrowing trend towards health and fitnessholidays with the addition of a gym.

The new fitness suite consists of twospinning bikes, one treadmill, one rowingmachine, one cross-trainer, one weightbench and weights ranging from 2lbs to20lbs. The gym floor has mats, gym balls,and enough space to practise yoga or doa daily workout routine while overlookingLewa valley.Guests can also enjoyrunning or walking with a Masaai guideamong the wildlife.lewawilderness.com

Find a sanctuaryA brand new Sanctuary Signature Spa hasopened at the five-star Queen VictoriaHotel, managed by Newmark Hotels,Reserves and Lodges, at the V&AWaterfront in Cape Town.

The treatments for men and womenoffer a combination of ancient andmodern techniques. The spa also offerspersonal training, gym facilities and apool area.

The Sanctuary Signature Spa is openseven days a week from 8am to 8pm.newmarkhotels.com

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7All About Southern & East Africa

TV star and Born Free patron Peter Andre attended the launch of Kenya Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner service from Heathrow to Nairobi.Two rescued circus lionesses, sisters Maggie and Sonja, travelled on the new service to begin their new life at the Born Free Big Cat rescue and Education Centre atShamwari Game Reserve in South Africa


Safari specialist &Beyonds property onBenguerra Island in Mozambique will reopen in

April after undergoing a complete redesign.

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The new hangouts

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From tented suites that hang high above the Mara Triangle to thefirst-ever camp in the Hoanib River Valley, Southern and EastAfrica has a lot to shout about this year.

WHEN IT comes to innovative, newaccommodation, southern andeast Africa is an exciting region to

visit in 2015.While there are a number of new safari

lodges opening that will be focusing onensuring their guests leave their digital livesbehind when they check in no wifi and nomobile signal one new hotel will bepioneering the Indian Ocean approach toaccommodation the overwater villa.

The Chobe Water Villas will be openingthis summer on the Namibian side of theChobe River, which is a first for thisdestination.

While this lodge is likely to be the headlinegrabber this year, there are a number of newlodges that will form part of the 2015 story, somake sure you browse through our HotelHotline to find out all the latest.

South Africa The first private lodge in South AfricasHluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in northern KwaZuluNatal has opened.

Rhino River Safari Lodge has two familycottages, four double en-suite luxury tentsand the homestead that can accommodateup to four guests.

One of the largest wildlife parks in SouthAfrica, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park covers96,000 hectares and was instrumental inpioneering the conservation of white rhinosin the 1950s and '60s and is widely creditedwith saving them from extinction.

The private game reserve is in a low-riskmalaria area and its location makes it aperfect twin or triple-centre break with the

beach city of Durban and the Zululandbattlefields.How much? Prices start at 92 per personper night sharing.To book: rhinoriverlodge.co.za

Marataba Walking Trails A new lodge has opened in the malaria-freeMarakele National Park, home to the bigfive, which aims to offer its guests acomplete escape from modern-day life as itdoesnt have wifi or a reception for mobiles.

The Marataba Walking Trails Lodgevalues privacy and intimacy so only eightguests are allowed at the lodge a time.

The variety of terrain and vegetationprovides four walking trails, varying in levelsof difficulty but all offering great wildlifeencounters. How much? Prices start at 270 per person per night.To book: marataba.co.za

Settlers Drift If you have clients who prioritise peace,quiet and exclusivity from their safariexperience, then suggest they check intoSettlers Drift

Ninety minutes by road from PortElizabeth, Settlers Drift opened in Decemberin a remote section of the Kariega GameReserve in the Eastern Cape.

The camp has just nine tented suites,each with their own private deck boastingviews over Bushmans River, and the chanceto spot the big five in the grassy plains andthe African bushveld from the comfort ofyour own suite.

How much? Prices from 286 per person per night.To book: kariega.co.za

Namibia A new luxury, boutique developmentconsisting of 16 overwater villas, inspired bythe high-end resorts in the Indian Ocean, isdue to open on the banks of the Namibianside of the Chobe river in July.

With unobstructed views of Seduduisland, which is renowned for its highdensity of wildlife, the Chobe Water Villaswill only be accessible by boat.

The region is famed for its wildlife-viewing opportunities, and the 16 overwatervillas will be nestled under acacia trees andhave a private terrace with a daybed for180-degree views of the river and bush.How much? Prices start at 278 for adouble/twin water villa per person per night.To book: chobewatervillas.com

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp Wilderness seekers will be thrilled to hearabout the new Hoanib Skeleton CoastCamp, the only camp in the Hoanib RiverValley in northern Damaraland.

Located in a private concession area thatstraddles the Palmwag area and SkeletonCoast National Park, the camp maintainsa highly exclusive and luxury feel as it isonly accessible by light aircraft.

This classic camp consists of onlyseven twin-bedded tents and one familyunit, each comprising en-suite bedroomswith shaded outdoors decks. Activities onthe camp's agenda include forays into


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the Hoanib floodplains for water wildlifespotting or tracking desert-adaptedelephant as well as spotting lions,giraffes and Hartmanns mountain zebras. How much? Expert Africa offers a14-night self-drive trip exploringNamibia's key highlights with threenights at Hoanib Skeleton Coast Campcosts from 2,240 per person on a mixedboard basis but with all meals andactivities and domestic flights includedat Hoanib. International flights are extra.To book: expertafrica.com; tel: 020 8232 9777

BotswanaThe Sandibe Safari Lodge has reopenedamid towering palms on a privateconcession in Botswanas OkavangoDelta.

The lodge has been completelyremodelled to feature a new moderndesign with sustainability firmly at theheart of the camp's ethos.

The lodge has 12 new suites elevatedon wooden platforms, each with privateplunge pools, overlooking theSantantadibe river, lagoons andfloodplains. How much? Expert Africa features thenine-day Kudu Safari, with three nights atNxabega Safari Camp and three nights atSandibe, from 3,681 per personincluding overnight flights fromHeathrow, transfers, full board, mostdrinks and all safari activities. To book: expertafrica.com; tel: 020 8232 9777

Zimbabwe A new safari camp is opening in a game-rich private concession in ZimbabwesHwange National Park in May.

WildernessLinkwasha Camp will be

laying claim to being the most luxuriousaccommodation on offer in the area.How much? Aardvark Safaris is offeringfour nights at WildernessLinkwashaCamp from 1,465 per person,includingmeals, house drinks, safariactivities and laundry.To book: aardvarksafaris.co.uk;tel: 01980 849160

Kenya A new lodge created by a couple whospent 15 years at the helm of safari lodgespecialist &Beyond is to open high abovethe Mara Triangle.

Steve and Nicky Fitzgerald will belaunching the Angama Mara, a newproperty resting on the rim of theOloololo Escarpment with breathtakingviews expanding over the Maasai Marasacclaimed Mara Triangle Game Reserve,will open its doors in June.

The inspiration behind the property isthe classic safari era and it will be formedof two completely separate camps, eachwith just 15 tented guest suites, floating300 metres above the Mara. The campshave been designed by the architectsbehind the private island sancutary ofNorth Island in Seychelles.

Each tented suite hangs on to theedge of the escarpment offering 180-degree views from the 11-metreglass-fronted floor-to-ceiling windows.

Facilities in the camp include afitness room, swimming pool and privatemassages.

Guests can also enjoy private gamedrives, animal trails led by Maasaiguides, hot air balloon rides andmanyatta visits in the surroundingareas. How much? The launch rate starts at499 per guest per night from 1-30

June. There is also an introductory offerof stay four nights, pay for three or stayseven nights, pay for five.To book: angama.com

MozambiqueSafari specialist &Beyonds property onBenguerra Island in Mozambique isreopening in April after undergoing acomplete redesign.

With interiors that aim to reflect thenatural beauty of the landscape throughlight island colours and traditionalMozambique style, the new look hasdone away with the Swahili Arabic stylein favour of brighter and cleaner decorthat aims to offer visitors warm, intimateand a distinctly African style.How much? Expert Africa offers an eight-day trip, with six nights at BenguerraIsland Lodge, from 2,900 per personincluding overnight flights from London,all meals, most drinks, some activities,and all transfers. To book: expertafrica.com; tel: 020 8232 9777

UgandaA new safari lodge has opened in Kibalein an ideal location for chimpanzeetrekking, which Kibale is renowned for.

Situated on the banks of theNyinabulitwa Crater Lake and a fewminutes away from Kibale ForestNational Park, Crater Safari Lodge hasbeen described as one of the mostenvironmentally sensitive lodges inUganda.

Crater Safari Lodge comprises nineluxury, individually designed cottagesthat aim to make the most of thebeautiful scenery around theNyinabulitwa Crater Lake.To book: naturallyafricacollection.co.uk

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The Angama Mara property will have 15tented guest suites that will "float" 300metres above the Mara at this site


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From classic safaris to Land Rover adventures, theres more than one way to watch wildlife these days

THERE IS no doubt that the outbreakof the deadly ebola virus in westAfrica has had an impact on

peoples perceptions of travel to thecontinent.

Abercrombie and Kent productmanager Kay Durden said initially theoutbreak did put people off frombooking safari holidays: Despite thefact that London is closer to the affectedareas in west Africa than east Africa,some clients last year said that Africacould wait until the ebola situationimproves.

However, this year we have seen thatclients are gaining more confidence inagain travelling to Africa, with southernAfrica proving particularly popular.Those that deferred their plans from lastyear are now returning to us to book,she adds.

The weak rand is also helping toencourage bookings, says Durden.

South Africa remains a populardestination, not just because it offerssuch diversity, but also excellent valuewhen you get there.As the Namibian

dollar is common rated with the SouthAfrican rand, we have seen an increasein business to Namibia, particularly forclients who have travelled to Africabefore.

So, theres no time like the present toensure you know has much as you canabout the wide variety of safaris that areon offer during 2015.

Road tripSeverin Travel Africa has a three-daysafari package that takes guests on aroad trip through Tsavo West NationalPark with the operators small privateluxury Severin Safari Camp as the basefor the three days.

With Mount Kilimanjaro as itsbackdrop, the small, intimate camp islocated in the centre of the Kitaniwildlife area, which is close to the TsavoRiver.

All of its octagon tents are equippedwith running hot and cold water, shower,separate toilet with bidet, comfortablebeds with mosquito nets and a privateterrace.

The four stonewalled junior suiteshave a separate lounge, a sun deck withsun beds and a private courtyard withoutdoor shower. The look-out decks ofthe Kibo and Mawenzi Suites offerbreathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaroand the expanse of the savannah.

And if that doesnt feel like luxury,then the little added extra comes in theshape of your very own butler to bringdinner to you in your suite.

The itinerary on the first day includeslunch at the camps Out of Africarestaurant followed by an afternoonexcursion to Mzima Springs to spothippos, crocodiles and some ratherexotic fish. An oasis of palm trees andacacias that is the main source of waterto the town of Mombasa.

As the sun sets, its time forsundowners, dinner at the campsrestaurant and some wildlife watchingas you sit around the campfire.

Day two kicks off with an early-morning game drive along the springs ofthe Tsavo River the lifeline for hipposand crocodiles followed by breakfast and

Multiple choice

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10

Lifes greatest adventures for all


S03 TB Southern & E. Africa 2015 Safari_Layout 1 09/02/2015 16:55 Page 10

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some chill-out time at the camps luxurious spa. After lunch,its time to head out to the Poachers Lookout to watch thesun set while you sip a glass or two of wine.

The return journey back to the camp gives guests thechance to experience the African savannah at night.

On the final day, after breakfast, camp guides take guestson a game drive up to Tsavo River Gate to take in thelandscapes and dramatic animal kingdom of Tsavo NationalPark before heading back to Mombasa.How much? Prices lead in at 295 per person sharing adouble tent and include full-board accommodation, activities,sundowner at Poachers Lookout and the use of a safarivehicle with a trained driver.

2by2 Holidays has a nine-night Kenya safari and beachpackage that includes three nights at Severin Safari Campbefore heading off to the Kenya coast for a stay at Turtle Bayin Malindi. Prices lead in at 2,330 per person sharing,including flights, transfers and all meals.To book: severin-hotels.com; 2by2holidays.co.uk

Walk the walkThis year marks the 25th anniversary of Robin Pope Safarisfirst mobile walking trips in Zambias South LuangwaNational Park. The specialist led its first mobile walking safariin 1990 and is marking the occasion with a special extendeditinerary, which will be a seven-night expedition rather thanthe usual five. The adventure will delve into the epic expanseof the Luangwa Valley and will include a night spent sleepingunder the stars.

The selling points of a walking mobile safari is that,without the sound of the vehicle to separate you from thewilderness, every sight, sound and smell is powerfullyintensified. All walks are led by an experienced naturalist andaccompanied by an armed game scout.

The mobile camps are already set up for when the walkersarrive. The shower is under a tree, and the toilet is a longdrop with a wooden throne very back to nature.

While the days are spent walking, the evenings are focusedon stories and a drink or two around the campfire, whichis a great way to get to know the other people on yourexpedition.

How much? Prices lead in at 4,279 per person and includethe seven-nights mobile walking safari, topped and tailed byone night at Nkwali Camp and two nights at Nsefu/Tena TenaCamp, safari activities with expert guides, all meals andtransfers. The tour departs on 28 August. Flights are notincluded. To book: robinpopesafaris.net

The family factorMichael Creighton, product manager, Africa (East andSouthern), Mauritius, Seychelles and Jordan, Travel 2suggests agents who have clients looking to take their familyon safari consider the new, five-star Settlers Drift in theKariega Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape Region of SouthAfrica.

This is a luxury tented lodge located in a remoteuntouched part of the Kariega wilderness that overlooks theBushmans River, says Creighton.Kariega, which has a

fantastic childrens programme where they can learn abouttheir surroundings including plants, insects and animaltracks.

The kids are also given the chance to interact with theranger and receive a junior ranger certificate in return forpassing a fun test.How much? Prices lead in at 1,249 per person for a six-daytwin-centre break to South Africa that includes two nightsbed and breakfast at the four-star Beach Hotel in PortElizabeth followed by three nights full board at the four-starKariega Main Lodge in Kariega Game Reserve, Eastern Cape.The price also includes six days car hire based on travelbetween1 May and 30 June.To book: travel2.com

Starry eyesTravel 2s Michael Creighton says the operator has seen anew trend for luxury under the stars emerge in southernAfrica.

This concept involves a private area of a game reserve fortwo guests with a fully serviced open sleeping area that hasthe same facilities that guests would expect of a five-starlodge. The perfect example of this new trend are theTreehouses at Lion Sands Game Reserve in Southern Africa.The Chalkey Treehouse is a lavish platform constructed in acenturies-old Leadwood tree, guests are taken there at sunset



to have drinks and dinner under thestars.How much? Travel 2 features three nightsfull board at the five-star Lion Sands RiverLodge, in Kruger National Park and threenights self-catering at the five-starWaterfront Village in Cape Town for2,339 per person. The price includesgame drives, transfers.To book: travel2.com

The all-in-one experienceFor clients who want to see all the mainattractions in South Africa in one holiday,suggest they consider Riviera Travels 16-day South Africa Tour.

The itinerary takes in all the must-seetop sites including Cape Town,Johannesburg, Kruger National Park andthe Zulu Battlefields.

When the tour arrives at Hippo Hollowjust outside Kruger National Park on dayfive, guests can opt to spend a night outin a tented camp bush with rangers totake them on game drives and a chef onhand to knock up a sumptuous meal

Riviera Travels Tom Morgan says what makes their tours

such a success is their guides. Dalton who is the guide forthe Zulu battlefields, his great grandfather was a Zulu chiefwho led warriors against the British.How much? Prices for the 16-day tour start at 1,899 perperson and includes return flights, accommodation, manyguided excursions and an experienced tour manager.

Mobile friendlyHayes and Jarvis destination manager Nick Wilsonrecommends the Serengeti Explorer Camp in Tanzania, whichhas been completely rebuilt for 2015.

The innovative luxury campsite changes location threetimes during the year to track the wildebeest movementacross the Serengeti National Park to track the animals cycleand ensure guests will always have a view, no matter whenthey visit.

This exclusive camp is home to eight eco-friendly deluxetents and two family tents, complete with verandas andpersonal tent valets.

And while the camp moves three times a year to track thewildebeest migration, guests also get the chance toexperience living among the elephants and buffalo.

New additions include a lounge tent, private dining, andlaundry service.

The campsite prides itself on its green credentials so all LEDlighting is solar powered, the showers are gravity fed, and thetoilets are eco-friendly flushing toilets in an attempt to ensurethat the animals and their surroundings are not disturbed.

The price is rightCox and Kings says it has seen a 100% increase in privatetravel to Botswana last year.

Spokeswoman Katie Cosstick says that Botswana isperceived to be at the upper end of most price ranges as it hassome of the most remote and pristine wilderness in Africa,

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Mobile safari specialist Robin Pope is celebrating its 25th anniversary with anextended walking expedition in Zambias South Luangwa National Parkac



which can onlybe accessed

by lightaircraft.

However, theescorted toursspecialist has introduced a new twin-centre trip that allows the guests todiscover two of the countrys mainhighlights Victoria Falls and ChobeNational Park at an affordable price.

The tour starts in Zambia with a two-night stay at Waterbury Lodge to explorethe legendary Victoria Falls and itssurrounding area.

On day four, the tour crosses the borderby boat and road into Botswana for aflight to the Savute Safari Lodge at theSelinda reserve in the southern sector ofthe Chobe National Park.

For two days, guests will be treated tomorning and afternoon game drives andsafari activities before taking a lightaircraft flight to Sango Camp in theOkavango Delta for two days exploring

the area on safari drives, bush walks, tripson the delta on mokoros and motorboats.How much? Prices for the nine-dayVictoria Falls and Chobe National Parkitinerary lead in at 2,395 per person andincludes accommodation game drives,evening sunset cruise on the Zambeziriver, transfers and international andinternal flights.To book: coxandkings.co.uk

The Rover returnsOkay, so this option is on the pricey side,but its an adventure that the Top Geartrio would love to get their team into.

Abercrombie and Kent have introduceda new concept called Land RoverAdventure Travel, which is effectivelypaying homage to the operators humblebeginnings. Geoffrey Kent and his parentsfounded the business in Africa andstarted safaris back in the 1960s using aLand Rover.

Fast forward nearly 50 years, and theoperator has reintroduced the iconic all-terrain vehicle into its programme, basing

an entire section of its programme ontravel via a Land Rover.

And where better to put the Land RoverDefender through its paces then on themyriad of terrains in Namibia.

This 11-day epic adventure gives yourclients the chance to get behind thewheel of a Land Rover and negotiate thevaried landscapes of Namibia.

The journey takes in the sand dunes ofSossusvlei, the challenging terrain ofnorthern Damaraland and the EtoshaNational Park and the Ongava Reserve.

Along the way, enjoy a hot-air ballonflight over the Sossusvlei, trackendangered black and white rhinothrough Damaraland, head off-piste for agame drive in the restricted west side ofEtosha National Park to catch sight ofsome big cats, zebras and a variety ofantelope and go whale-watching atWalvis Bay.How much? Prices start at 8,495 perperson, including accommodation andflightsTo book: abercrombiekent.co.uk

Coming SoonNew SA Specialist online trainingWatch this space for opportunities to become an SA Specialist and have a chance to win a place on a South Africa FAM trip.

www.southafrica.netT: 0208 971 9350

s a f a r i


From traditional honeymoon safaris to honeyteers, here is a range of honeymoonideas that wont test your bank balance all you need is love

ACCORDING TO Brides magazine,the average cost of a wedding inthe UK is around 24,000, and

thats before you add on the cost of thehoneymoon.

With favourable exchange ratesmaking destinations in Southern andEast Africa great value for money at themoment, and operators adding on extrasand upgrading rooms, we thought wewould pull together some honeymoonideas and a wedding package or two.

Spice it upFor honeymooners who fancy addingsome extra spice to their romanticescape, Hayes and Jarvis recommendsthey head over to the spice island ofZanzibar.

Referred to as the spice island due toits main industry being the production ofspices, Zanzibar is popular withhoneymooners looking for somethingdifferent. While it has the prerequisite

stunning, white, sandy beaches that mosthoneymooners expect, the island is alsopacked to the rafters with culture, historyand activities such as diving, snorkellingand swimming with dolphins - of course.

Hayes and Jarvis recommend thathoneymooners check into the BarazaResort and Spa on the southwest coast ofthe island.

The retreat boasts villas with their ownprivate plunge pools and outdoorterraces with elegant interiors. TheFrangipani Spa has outdoor relaxationrooms, a lap pool with underwatermusicand a yoga centre.How much? Hayes and Jarvis offersseven nights all-inclusive stay at theBaraza Resort and Spa from 1,995 perperson, including one bonus night andreturn international flights fromHeathrow with Oman Air. This price isbased on 3 June departures.To book: hayesandjarvis.com

The Xtra factorPremier Safaris has a six-day honeymoonoffer for Kenya that is packed full ofextras that are guaranteed to make thehoneymoon couple feel extra special.

On arrival in Nairobi, the newly-wedsare whisked off to the mountainouscentral region highlands of Kenya tocheck into the Aberdare Country Club fora two-night stay where they will beupgraded to a deluxe room. They will alsobe treated to guided bush walks withinthe wildlife sanctuary.

After two nights, its night to head offto Lake Nakuru Lodge in the Lake NakuruNational Park via the Great Rift Valley fordinner and an overnight stay.

The following day, the honeymoonerswill be taken to the Mara Leisure camp inthe Masai Mara National Park for moregame drives, and another room upgradebut this time to the private honeymoontent, with its own views over the Talekriver.

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Balancing act

A romantic dinner for two out in the bushis just one of the many little extras safari

lodges offer honeymooners


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Other extras include complimentarysundowners within the Masai Marareserve and the chance to spend sometime at a local Masai village.How much? Prices start at 1,317 perperson and include airport transfers, full-board accommodation, game drives, parkentrance fees and the services of anEnglish-speaking guide. Internationalflights are excluded.To book: premiersafaris.com

Traditional rulesFor honeymooners keen to stick totradition, 2by2 Holidays recommends aclassic safari in South Africas KrugerNational Park with some well-deservedR&R on the Indian Ocean island ofMauritius.

The 12-night break starts with fourdays at the Garonga Safari Camp in thewest of Kruger where honeymooners canenjoy game drives and bush walks attheir leisure before opting for a romantictree-house picnic or a bush bath for twounder the stars. Honeymoon packagesinclude bride and grooms 45-minutemassage each, a complimentary bottle ofchampagne on arrival pluscomplimentary return transfers to eitherHoedspruit or Phalaborwa Airport for theflights on to Mauritius.

On arrival at the Indian Ocean island,loved-up couples will be whisked off tothe boutique, beachfront hotel of 20Degress Sud where they can choose to do

as much or as little as they like. There areplenty of activities to get involved in,from sailing to playing a round of golf.How much? Prices start at 2,685 perperson including flights andaccommodation on a mixed-board basis.To book: 2by2holidays.co.uk

Doing it for the kidsHave you heard of the term honeyteers?

Its a phrase used by Christopher Hill, thefounder of Hands Up Holidays, to describehoneymooners with a heart who want tomake a difference and volunteer to helpin community projects that are taking placein the destinations they are going tohoneymoon in.

For honeyteers who are not restricted toa budget as such, Hill recommends theyconsider Hands Up Holidays KenyanEncounter In Style package whichcombines work on a volunteers project withsome time-out at a barefoot luxuryhideaway.

During this 15-day break, loved-upcouples can join in a project to help build aclassroom for the Masai community as wellas enjoying game drives in the Masai Mara,Samburu and Amboseli National Parks.

The tour includesnight game drives of

Moremi Wildlife Reserve and guidedsafari walks with theopportunity to viewAfricas predators

When to honeymoon in southern and east Africa

Southern and East Africa specialist 2by2Holidays has pulled together somesuggestions on where to honeymoon andwhen throughout the year.

South Africas KwaZulu Natal has awarm and pleasant climate this timeof year so is a great place for self-drive honeymoon, while Namibia isdry but the temperatures arent ashigh as they are in the summermonths, and the tourist regions arenot as busy as they are in the peakperiods.Now is a great time to visit theislands in the Indian Ocean, whileBotswana and Zambia are coming tothe end of their green season so gameis easier to spot.

APRIL-MAY

Unquestionably the best time to go toSouthern and East Africa and theIndian Ocean, while its peak seasonin Uganda and Rwanda for gorillatrekking and Madagascar is beautifulthis time of year.

JUNE - OCTOBER

Ethiopia is warm this time of year,while Botswana and Zambia arecheaper as its the start of the greenseason where the game regions startto flood. Cape Town and the Garden Route arebeautiful this time of year.

NOVEMBER - MARCH

Hands Up Holidays has a range of packages for honeyteers, newly-weds who want to do some volunteerwork in local community projects during their honeymoon



After they have finished rolling up theirsleeves to help out the community, theycan head off to Funzi Keys luxury lodgeon Funzi Island, just off the southernKenya coast to enjoy some qualitycouples time in the retreats Swahili-stylelodges.How much? Prices start at 8,800 perperson for the 15-day honeymoon. Flightsare not included. All trips are 100% tailor-made, and Hands Up Holidays paybetween 11% and 15%.To book: handsupholidays.com

Luxury with a capital LBelmond knows a thing or two aboutluxury, so if you have clients who reallywant to push the honeymoon boat out,then Hayes and Jarvis recommends itssix-night Botswana in Style tour thatfeatures the Belmond Fly-In safari.

The experience offers honeymooners avariety of game-viewing activities bothover land and on water, while staying insome of the countrys most stylish andopulent lodges.

A visit to Chobe National Park alsofeatures to observe the parks highconcentration of elephants and ancientrock paintings, while honeymooners willalso have the chance to sail down theOkavango Delta via traditional mokorocanoes.

How much? Hayes & Jarvis features itsBotswana in Style six-night tour from4,899 per person, which includes somemeals and return international flightsfrom Heathrow with South AfricanAirways. The price is based on 7November departures.To book: hayesandjarvis.com

Up streamFor clients looking for something a littledifferent, why dont you suggest theycheck into the Royal Zambezi Lodge inZambia that is located on the banks ofthe Zambezi River.

The hotels deluxe, standalone suitesare perfect for romance, with outdoorbaths and showers, private plunge poolsand shaded verandas with great viewsoverlooking the river. There are widetimber decks in the communal area thatare suitable for fine dining under clearAfrican skies, while the Sausage Tree Baris THE place to sit and sip an aperitif ortwo while the sun sets.

Game drives, night drives and walkingsafaris will reveal huge herds of elephantand buffalo, plus regular lion and leopardsightings, while a cruise down theZambezi in a canoe is guaranteed toinvolve some animal and bird lifespotting.

Alternatively, get away from it all with

a candlelit dinner for two on a desertedisland on the Zambezi, or relax inZambias and only bush spa.How much? Prices from 331 per personper night fully inclusive.To book: royalzambezilodge.com

The OneTheres a plethora of locations in CapeTown to tie the knot, but if you want anevents expert to hold your hand, thenlook up the Celebration Consultants atthe One&Only Cape Town.

The Celebration Consultants are onhand to ensure that no stone is unturnedwhen it comes to ensuring the memoriesof that special day last forever. They co-ordinate everything from ensuring thenecessary legal requirements anddocumentation for marrying in CapeTown are completed, to arranging tablesettings, place cards, event timelines,music, photographers, flowers, menusand more, logistics are attended to withexpert skill.

The hotel has a number of rooms tohost weddings, no matter what size. Theballroom can accommodate 120 for a sit-down meal, while the Isola Restaurantseats 60 and the Marina Room can caterfor 40 guests. When it comes to thehoneymoon afterwards, the One&OnlyCape Town has two separate, exclusiveislands that have 40 suites, a privateinfinity pool and a spa.capetown.oneandonlyresorts.com

If you have clients looking to say Ido with the wide African plains andbushveld as the backdrop, SerenaHotels has a dedicated weddingpackage for its Serena Mivumo RiverLodge in Tanzania.

How much?The wedding package costs $3,000.

Whats included? Special marriagelicence fee and certificate, registrarand commissioner of oath fee,wedding cake, champagne, bouquetand button-hole/flower, ceremonyand lunch/dinner or sundowner forbridal party.

For more information:serenahotels.com

Wedding packages

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Couples can enjoy a bath under thestars at the Garonga Safari Camp



CUE THE David Attenboroughvoiceover as we mention how a closeencounter with a mountain gorilla is

number one on so many peoples wildlifebucket list. Rwanda is where US zoologist,primatologist, and anthropologist DianFossey first studied these amazingprimates.

The Hollywood film Gorillas in the Mist wasbased on Dians book of the same name,which tells the story of her work andresearch into the mountain gorillas ofRwanda. Today, the opportunity to trek intothe Volcanoes National Park to see thesecreatures draws tourists from across the globe.

But theres much more to Rwanda thanjust gorillas and with a burgeoningtourism industry, the potential to turnthis country into a viable stand-alone

destination is certainly growing.With concerted efforts fromgovernment and private sector alike,three major new locations haveemerged Nyungwe, Kivu and Akagera to add to the Volcanoes NationalPark and Kigali.

KIGALIRwandas unique capital thatsremarkably clean, well organised andefficient with a vibrant nightlife. Alsohome to the must-see GenocideMuseum, which is a memorial to theone million Tutsis and Hutus who werekilled over a 100-day period in 1994.The museum offers a surprisinglyuplifting experience and is a must-seeattraction for any visitor to the capital.

NYUNGWEThis pre-ice age rainforest is thebiggest and oldest in East Africa, andprovides visitors with the chance to getup close to chimpanzees, huge troopsof black and white Colobus monkeysand amazing birdlife, all of which arevisible from the rainforests 75-metrehigh canopy walkway

As Rwanda is home to the ultimate wildlife experience,its small wonder that it hasbeen able to shake off its sadpast, to become one ofAfricas most desirabletourist destinations, writesTim Henshall

R W A N D A

The ultimate destination

Visitors can get up close to the mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park

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Becca Spurgeon from the VisionsHoliday Group has just returned fromRwanda. Here she talks about theimpression the country has made on her.I was blown away by Rwanda, it is

one of the most incredible places I havevisited. From the minute we landed andwere met by our representatives wewere impressed, the country felt veryclean and friendly. It has to be thecleanest African country I have visited.The once-a-month national clean up-days really show. The scenery isspectacular from the rice fields, teaplantations, Lake Kivu to the VolcanoesNational Park, it certainly lives up to itsname of a country of a thousand hills.The highlight was the gorilla trekking. Iwas not really sure what to expect, but Ihad a tear in my eye from the firstmoment I spotted a gorilla family anexperience I will never forget. There is a

lot more to offer than just the gorillasthough, chimpanzee trekking, gameviewing, relaxing on the shores of thelake and visiting the national museums.I would not hesitate to send my clientsto Rwanda.

One of the most incredible places I have visited

Becca Spurgeon


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KIVUEasily mistaken for Italy or Switzerland,Lake Kivu is a scenic paradise withmore than 600 islands dotted along its56-mile length. Walking and cyclingtrails abound, but its often used simplyas a chill-out zone. In the north,regional capital Gisenyi offersfascinating views of thousands ofCongolese traders crossing back andforth over the border with colourfulproduce and foodstuffs.

AKAGERAEmerging from decades of neglect, weconfidently predict this park willbecome a must-visit park within a fewyears. Astounding conservation successwill culminate with the park beingrestocked with both lions and rhinosthis year, making its cheeky mini-Okavango and mini-Serengetinicknames for its north and southernsections even more fitting.

VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARKHome to the iconic mountain gorilla,but theres also the opportunity to seegolden monkeys, tea plantations, cavesand the hugely entertaining Ibyiwacucultural village.

REMARKABLE ACTIVITIES Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Superb birding across the country Primates including chimps, colobusand golden monkeys

History Palaces and great museums Peace and reconcilliation (post-genocide)

Dance, music and crafts

Operators offeringRwanda include:

Cox and KingsAfrica CollectionDistinctive Africa

African PrideAfrica and BeyondVisions of Africa

Golden monkeys can be spotted inthe Volcanoes National Park

For general information, seewww.rwandatourism.com

For trade-only info seewww.rwandaresources.comContact Rwandas UK office on01664 823750 or [email protected]

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Adventurous timesAlways on a quest to offer its client basethe next undiscovered or off-the-beatentrack destination, escorted tours specialistKuoni has put together a nine-nightHighlights of Northern Ethiopia tour thatpromises to delve into the history, cultureand natural beauty of the region.The expedition starts off in the capital

Addis Ababa for a sightseeing tour of thecity, which begins at the Holy TrinityCathedral and continues to theEthnographical Museum for an insightinto Ethiopias rich ethnic diversity. The final stop is at the National

Museum, which houses many artefactsthat reflect the countrys status as thecradle of mankind, including Lucy; athree-million-year-old skeleton discoveredin the Great Rift Valley in 1974.On day two, the tour takes flight to the

large town of Bahir Dar on the southernshore of Lake Tana for a visit to the BlueNile Falls gateway. After an overnight stayin the lakeside town, its off to thehistorical city of Gondar, founded around1635 and renowned for its medievalcastles, intricate churches and views overfarmland back to Lake Tana.Lalibela is next on the itinerary, which

is a World Heritage Site due to its 11rock-hewn churches, that are carvedbelow ground level. Each church has itsown priest and the constructions can beaccessed via a maze of passages andstairways.The tour, on day five, heads out of

Lalibela to the mountain-top church of

Asheton Maryam for views of thesurrounding area.The last few days of the tour include

stays at the lakeside resort of Llanganoand Bale Mountains National Park, hometo more than half of the worlds Ethiopianwolf population, as well as the endemicMountain Nyala, Meneliks bushbuck andvarious birds. How much? Prices start at 2,478 perperson based on a 5 October departure.The price includes nine nightsaccommodation and an inclusive mealplan, international flights and grouptransfers.To book: kuoni.co.uk

An eye for eyeonly ends up making the whole worldblind, is one of the most famous sayingsby Mahatma Gandhi, the legendaryIndian pacifist and independence leader.Gandhi spent the formative years of his

life in South Africa, from 1893 to 1914.He arrived in South Africa, aged 24, as anewly-qualified lawyer, and wasintending to only stay for a short while,but in fact, spent 21 years there,interspersed with spells in India andEngland.During his time in South Africa, Gandhi

developed his famous passive resistancemovement known as satyagraha (loosely

From learning how to survivein the bush to exploring thecradle of mankind, Southernand East Africa knows how tosatisfy visitors thirst forknowledge

c u l t u r a l a r c h a e o l o g i c a l

The culture of travel

Kuoni's Northern Ethiopia Highlights tour visits Lali-bela, home to 11 rock-hewn underground churches


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translated as insistence on truth), thatwould help bring an end to the Britishcolonial system in India in 1947.Gandhis strategy was to become one ofthe great political tools of the 20thcentury, going on to influence the civilrights movement in the US and theAfrican National Congress in its earlyyears of struggle against apartheid inSouth Africa.South African Tourism has launched a

new dedicated website, listing a series oftourist attractions across the country thattell the life story of Gandhi.The sites include: Pietermaritzburg

Station, which has a plaque thatcommemorates the incident whenGandhi was thrown off a train for sittingin a first-class carriage, despite having avalid ticket; the Old Court HouseMuseum, Durban, which was often visitedby Gandhi when he was practising as alawyer - it is where he was asked toremove his turban; Satyagraha House inJohannesburg, which is a house Gandhishared with his friend, the famousarchitect Hermann Kallenbach, during hisearly years in South Africa; and Old Fort,Constitution Hill, Johannesburg whereGandhi was imprisoned in 1906. Otherfamous inmates included NelsonMandela and Joe Slovo.Premier Holidays offers a Gandhi-

inspired trip to South Africa, whichincludes: three nights bed and breakfastin Johannesburg and a half-day Sowetotour; and three nights in Durban withbreakfast and a full-day Gandhi heritagetour. The package includes returntransfers in each city to and from theairport (flights not included) and costsfrom 495 per person based on twopeople travelling together. Flights are notincluded, however flights from Heathrowto Johannesburg with South AfricanAirways with connections to Durban startat 926 per person return.To book: gandhi.southafrica.net;premierholidays.co.uk

Out in the bushTheres one thing being led through abush by an experienced guide, but whatwould you do if you came face to facewith a human predator, or you foundyourself having to catch and cook a fishwithout the help of the chef from yourluxury safari lodge?Abercrombie and Kent has put

together a four-day Bush Skills Adventurein Botswana package that aims to teachkeen adventurers some bush skills whilebased at the Sanctuary Baines Camp onthe Boro river in the Okavango Delta. Under the watchful eye of highly

trained and knowledgeable guides,

guests will be taught how to pole amokoro, a dug-out canoe commonly usedin the Delta. To pole means to stand inthe stern and push the mokoro throughthe water with a pole.Next skill to learn is how to make a

traditional spear for fishing and how tocatch fish in the delta using a rod,followed by discovering the methodsused to track an animal on foot. Theguides will teach guests all about theintricacies of tracking game and how toidentify different animal tracks, findedible plants, make rope out of naturalmaterials and how to find water in thebush.On day three, there are some lessons

on making and placing traps to catchwildlife, build a shelter, use the sun andthe stars to navigate a passage andweave a basket.Once you have completed all of these

skills, you will receive a certificate.How much? Prices range from 1,595 to2,909 per person based on four peopletravelling together. The price includesaccommodation, three meals daily, softdrinks, house wines, local brand spiritsand beers, transfers, two daily scheduledshared safari activities with guides andshared scheduled flight from Maun toBaines Airstrip return.To book: abercrombiekent.co.uk

Satyagraha House in Johannesburg where Mahatma Gandhi lived in his early years inSouth Africa. The house features in South African Tourism's Gandhi Trail

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The Wonder yearsThe South African city of Durban inKwaZulu Natal has been named as one ofthe official New Seven Wonder Cities ofthe World.Durban joins Beirut, Doha, Havana,

Kuala Lumpur, La Paz and Vigan in thelist of the new Seven Wonder Cities ofthe World.Tourism trade show Indaba will also be

taking place in Durban at the InkosiAlbert Luthuli International ConventionCentre from 9-11 May.Meanwhile, access to the Battlefields

of KwaZulu Natal has been considerablyimproved following the launch of FederalAirs Johannesburg to Ulundi scheduledair service.Visitors travelling to the KwaZulu-

Natal Battlefields via Johannesburg nowhave a more convenient option to accessIsandlwana Lodge and the Battlefields inthe area via the one-and-a-half hourscheduled air service betweenJohannesburg and Ulundi flies, whichoperates five days a week.

Zip itThe longest double zip-line experience inAfrica has opened in Sundays RiverValley, just outside Addo in the EasternCape, an hours drive away from NelsonMandela Bay.Adrenaline Addo is 500 metres long

and adrenaline junkies can reach speeds

of up to 40 miles an hour on the zip-line.The zipline runs over the Sundays

River, which is reputedly South Africasfastest-flowing river when in flood.

Additions for 2015Cosmos Tours and Cruises has introduceda new 13 day Extraordinary Namibia tourthat incorporates the wide variety ofexperiences that the country has to offer.The tour visits the sand dunes in the

Namib desert, heads to Etosha NationalPark for game drives and takes in anumber of activities in Swakopmundincluding quad-biking, sand-boarding anda scenic flight over Skeleton Coast.Prices start at 2,795 per person,including flights, accommodation, guidedsightseeing and airport transfers.cosmostoursandcruises.co.uk

All changeSafari specialist Somak has launched anew website that is designed to be easierto navigate, more informative andinspirational for agents.The operator has added a simpler, yet

image-rich design, blogs that aim toinspire agents to help them with theirsales and a new search facility thatallows users to discover properties byholiday.TripAdvisor reviews have been added

on all property pages.Somak is also hiking up its trade

activities with agent training andpromotion support, agents concessionand educational opportunities andinvitations to hospitality events.The specialist is also making agency

branded pop-up banners available. TheSouth Africa banner is free, but there is a50 fee for the East Africa banner whichcan be claimed back on the next booking.New booking incentives are going to

be launched in March as a change fromthe Love2Shop vouchers.Meanwhile, Somak has launched a 16-

page mini South Africa brochure, whichincludes details on free nights andcomplimentary upgrades at hotels andlodges as well as free excursions anddiscounted meal options.

The mobile generationBushtops Camps in the Serengeti,Tanzania are introducing Roving Bishops,a wild luxury mobile safari.The ultra-luxe camp will consist of five

tents, each featuring wooden decks, flushtoilets with running water, shower, 24-hour power with all the required chargingpoints, as well as its own private butler,ranger, field guide and spotter. Allbeverages, including cellar wines andluxury spirits are included.Roving Bushtops will offer personalised

game drive experience and guests will bealso able to plan their own itinerary withthe help of the ranger.

From Africas longest zip-line to new-look web-sites from Somak, here is a round-up of othernews from the movers and shakers in the region

b e s t o f t h e r e s t

Best of the rest

Cosmos has introduced a 13 day Extraordinary Namibiathat takes in the country's spectacular sand dunes


S07 TB Southern & E. Africa 2015 BOTR_Layout 1 09/02/2015 17:00 Page 21

2,000

Robin Pope Safaris has a seven-nightsafari river journey in Zambia during theEmerald Seasons peak flood time whichruns until the end of March. The LuangwaRiver overflows during this period, fillinglagoons and covering land, and thismeans that the river experience involvesboating in the South Luangwa NationalPark in areas where visitors wouldnormally walk in the dry season.

Visitors get to see hippos in the water,spot lions on the river banks and see birdlife at its most brilliant, and can explorehigher ground on game drives and onfoot.

How much? The Zambia River Journeyscosts from 1,700 per person based ontwo sharing and includes seven nightsaccommodation, full board, activities andairport transfers. Flights are not included.To book: robinpopesafaris.net.

5,000

Turquoise Holidays has an 11-nightTanzanian Safari Beach escape thatinvolves four nights at Azura Selous and11 nights at the Fundu Lagoon, both onall-inclusive basisHow much? Prices lead in at 3,146 perperson and include transfers andinternational flights with Qatar Airways.

To book: turquoiseholidays.co.uk

2by2 Holidays has a 12-night SouthernTanzania and Zanzibar package thatfeatures a bush safari in the Selous GameReserve in Southern Tanzania with theopportunity to see a wide range of game,including lion, buffalo and leopard. Thenits off to Zanzibar for two nights in theislands historic Stone Town and an all-inclusive beach break on Zanzibarssuperb white sand coastline.How much? Prices start at 2,595 perperson sharing including flights,accommodation and some meals.Accommodation is at Selous Serena

From self-drive experiences through the sand dunes ofNamibia, trekking through the national parks of Uganda toriver safaris in Zambia, here is a round-up of African experiences to suit all different budgets

Safaris to suit all budgets

22All About Southern & East Africa


Camp, Zanzibar Serena Hotel in StoneTown and Blue Bay Beach Resort and Spa.To book: 2by2holidays.co.uk

Real Africa has a 15-night NamibiaHighlights self-drive which the operatorsays is one of the best ways to explorethe countrys sweeping desert landscapesas the road infrastructure is so good andvery safe.How much? Prices lead in at 2,495 perperson based on two people sharing andincludes flights, car hire four-staraccommodation, breakfasts and someother meals. Accommodation includesstays at the Okonjima Game Reserve with

game drives, Olive Grove and NamutoniCamp in Etosha National Park.To book: realafrica.co.uk

Cosmos Tours and Cruises hasintroduced a new nine-day Cape Townand Winelands Culinary Delights smallgroup, twin-centre tour that incorporatessightseeing in Cape Town with authenticexperiences of Djembe drummingsession, 14-course tasting safari fromCape Malay to African cuisine, plus ahands-on Malay cooking experiencebefore spending two nights in the winegrowing area of Franschoek to enjoy arange of wine tasting. How much? Prices start at 2,075 perperson and include return flights,accommodation, guided sightseeing andairport transfers.To book: cosmostoursandcruises.co.uk

Kuoni has a eight-night tour called theKenya Explorer that travels to the ShabaNational Reserve, which is a first forKuoni. The itinerary includes one night inNairobi, one night in Amboseli NationalPark, one night Aberdare National Park,two nights in Shaba, one night at LakeNaivasha and two nights in the MaasaiMara.

Highlights of the safari include seeingthe huge elephants at Amboseli, a nightat the unique lodge, The Ark, the lakes ofNakuru and Naivasha, multiple gamedrives in the Maasai Mara and anoptional balloon flight over the MaasaiMara. How much? Prices start at 2,306 perperson, based on two sharing and includefour-star accommodation, English-speaking driver/guide, minibus safarivehicle exclusively for Kuoni customers,with a minimum of six passengers, allguaranteed a window seat and standingspace through the roof hatch when gameviewing, welcome dinner, game drivesand sightseeing, park fees and transfers,bottle of water each day on safari, mealson mainly full board basis andinternational flights. To book: kuoni.co.uk

10,000

Real Africa has a nine-day UltimateBotswana Holiday which includes twonights at the Linyanti Reserve, twonights at the Tubu Tree camp in the

Okavango Delta and two nights at theChitabe camps in the Moremi GameReserve.How much? Prices lead in at 5,485 perperson and include international anddomestic flights, all accommodation on afull-board basis at all 3 camps, allguiding, game-viewing and park fees.To book realafrica.co.uk

Escorted tours specialist Tauck has a13-day Kenya and Tanzania: A ClassicSafari that includes two-night stays inthe legendary Serengeti National Parkand Masai Mara game reserve, plus twonights in Amboseli National Park, withdaily game drives. The experience alsoincludes: a hot-air balloon ride at dawnover the Masai Mara game reserve,followed by a champagne breakfast inthe bush; a visit to the SweetwatersChimpanzee Sanctuary and the WilliamHolden Animal Orphanage; an overnightin a lodge built into the rim ofNgorongoro Crater, which boasts greatviews of the wildlife-rich wilderness andone of the oldest sites of habitation; anda special barbecue dinner accompaniedby Maasai dancing at the lodge in theSerengeti.

Other highlights include: a privatelecture by an elephant researcher inAmboseli National Park; a villageweaving demonstration in Nanyuki,Kenya; and a three-night stay at theFairmont Mt. Kenya Safari Club withinview of Mount Kenya.How much? Prices lead in at 6,160 andinclude air transfers upon arrival anddeparture, 36 meals, gratuities to localguides, service charges, admissions fees,taxes and porterage. International flightsare not included.To book: tauck.co.uk

Abercrombie and Kent has a 10-nightClassic Uganda experience that includes:trekking with habituated chimpanzees inKibale National Park; exploring QueenElizabeth National Park with more than600 recorded bird species; closeencounters with mountain gorillas inBwindi Impenetrable Forest; and thechance to see Lake Kyaninga and thestunning Mountains of the Moon.How much? Prices start at 5,375 perperson and include international flights.To book: abercrombiekent.co.uk

23

h o l i d a y s f o r l e s s

Cosmos new nine-day Cape Town andWinelands Culinary Delights smallgroup, twin-centre tour visits the

winelands of Franschoek



To order brochures or to nd out more, please call 0800 988 5800 or visit www.titanagents.co.uk

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Travel Bulletin Southern & East Africa Supplement 2015