Discover your inner balance together, on a couples retreat to one of Africa’s most romantic and luxurious destination spas. Whether you’re taking time to relax after a full week of exhilaration and safari adventure, or have just completed a horseback wine tasting safari in Cape Winelands, nothing is more sensual than ending your honeymoon or anniversary getaway with a holistic rejuvenation of the mind, body, and soul.

Many of the spas found throughout Africa offer services that fuse the traditional healing powers of nature with revolutionary spa treatments, allowing couples the rewarding opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying revitalizing spa treatments.

Below is our list of South Africa’s top 3 romantic and lavish spas:

Pezula Spa

With services and treatments that combine traditional natural healing elements and state-of-the-art spa technology, each experience at Pezula Spa is designed as a holistic treatment to balance the senses and revitalize the body.

From nourishing skin care treatments to therapeutic and detoxifying experiences, you and your loved can experience pure bliss together.

Some of Pezula’s signature treatments include scrubs, wraps, massages, milk baths, and hydrotherapies, that all incorporate the natural elements and essence of the Western Cape’s indigenous fynbos.

After a stimulating couple’s treatment, further your romantic experience in one of Pezula’s soothing spa amenities such as the outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, or revitalizing rainforest shower—a favorite among couples as its designed with an artistic fusion of mosaic tiles and soothing illumination.

The Saxon

With hints of contemporary décor and contrasting earth tones and textures, each and every design element of The Saxon Spa acts as an extension of treatments and therapies offered at this ultimate escape. In fact, one of The Saxon Spa’s most celebrated amenities is their outdoor Sensational Showers, which were created around two of nature’s most divergent elements, fire and water.

Offering a full array of luxury services, including massages, customized facials, and exclusive wraps, baths, and hydrotherapy treatments, it’s no wonder The Saxon Spa was voted the Best Day Spa in South Africa by Les Nouvelles Esthétiques in 2006—among many other awards and acclaims.

In addition to the incredible amenities and treatments featured at The Saxon Spa, one of their most popular and exclusive services is The Signature Sound Therapy experience. Incorporating the Zen-inducing sounds of gongs, cymbals, singing bowls and bells, and powerful color therapy, this treatment is the ultimate in holistic therapy for the mind, body, and soul.

So, whether you want to enjoy a couple’s treatment in one of The Saxon’s private outdoor gazebos or in one of their rejuvenating relaxation rooms, romance is a prominent characteristic at The Saxon Spa.

The Birkenhead House and Spa

As you and your loved one lay side-by-side on comforting, white-linen covered mats, enjoy the naturally soothing sounds of the ocean, merely a few feet away. Or, enjoy a therapeutic treatment in one of The Birkenhead Spa’s two exclusive pampering rooms, the Lavender Room and the Cinnamon Room.

Designed to restore the balance of the senses with soothing music, subtle scents of lavender, and the distant sounds of trickling water, the Lavender Room is the ultimate setting for complete rejuvenation and sensory stimulation.

Also designed to inspire complete relaxation is The Cinnamon Room, a sanctuary filled with the sweet aroma of warming cinnamon.

Some of the spa treatments that can be experienced either outdoor or in one of the Birkenhead’s soothing treatment rooms include aromatherapy, energizing wrap treatments and scrubs, hot-stone massages, reflexology, and customized facial treatments—to name a few.

Incorporating the holistic treatments of various cultures, The Birkenhead Spa’s exclusive spa services are derived from the therapeutic masters of the world. Some of these worldly services include Swedish Massage, Indian Head Massage, and the Lomi-Lomi Massage (derived from Hawaii).

Associating all camps and mobile safaris in Africa by these rugged stereotypes is a false assumption. In fact, there are many camps and mobile camps found throughout each country in Africa that are high-end, extremely comfortable, and equipped with all necessary amenities and highly attentive staff. Although mobile camps are a little more rustic and adventurous than non-mobile camps (mobile camps can be moved, non-mobile camps remain in one location and do not ever move, unless they are semi-mobile), there are many that offer the same luxurious features and amenities.

Below are descriptions and benefits of mobile camps and non-mobile camps to give you a better understanding of what a camp is and what it’s not:

Mobile Camps:

Depending on your personal tastes and preferences, you may choose to experience a four-day mobile safari, where your tent will be moved and set up for you each day as you venture to new locations.

Wilderness Safaris is one of our favorite mobile safari providers. They provide a variety of mobile safaris, which they call Adventurer Explorations. Each of their Adventurer Explorations uses lush duvets, cotton sheets, and GI stretchers for bedding, and is equipped with en-suite bathroom amenities including a toilet, bucket shower, and a hand wash basin, so that each guest’s room is transformed into a luxurious suite.

A mobile safari is perfect for you if:

• You crave the old-fashioned, 19th-century safari feel. Created using eclectic tin finishes, a canvas covering, and lantern illumination, Wilderness Safaris’ mobile camps are direct reflections of safari camps utilized by past celebrities such as Theodore Roosevelt and David Livingstone.
• You want to experience a more rustic safari adventure and discover as much as you can while feeling relaxed and comfortable—all without having to do the hard work associated with camping such as making food, pitching your tent, carrying your tent, cleaning, or anything else laborious. Your tents are taken down for you and are set up at the next location before you even arrive.
• You desire highly personalized safari tours where you explore the most secluded areas of Africa.

Non-Mobile Camps:

Tents used in non-mobile camps are often constructed using more durable materials such as wood or dried clay. Many do, however, incorporate canvas and lighter materials into the design of the tent so that the sights, sounds, and scents of nature can permeate through the tents. Some camps also do not refer to their accommodations as tents; many prefer to call them chalets, bandas, or bungalows.

Non-mobile camps are perfect for you if:

• You want to have a more intimate and private experience. Camps are often much smaller and more intimate than hotels. Although hotels are wonderful to stay at in cities and outside of the bush—such as Cape Town and the Garden Route—they are not ideal for the bush. Because camps are often much smaller than hotels, personal staff is always attentive to your every need, catering to even the smallest of details. The intimacy of the camps also means no children running around, no large groups taking up space in the dining room or on safari, and no wait on anything.
• You wish to seamlessly connect with nature and your immediate surroundings. As camps are designed to incorporate natural elements within their décor, exposure to the breeze, wildlife, and towering fynbos of the bush is effortless. Each and every day, you’ll feel your cares and thoughts of responsibility melt away as you find peace in the surrounding sounds, sights, and aromas of the bush.
• You want to feel secluded while still relishing in luxurious amenities such as underground plunge pools, bomas, and fireplaces. As for meals, dining arrangements often differ at various camps—some are equipped with a main dining tent, others offer lantern-lit outdoor seating, while others offer both.

How do you view camps in Africa now? Let us know in our comments section.

But have you ever considered the various types of safaris and tours that can be experienced in Africa? Everything from small group safaris to personal tours, and game-drive-bustling parks to completely remote reserves, safari tours come in all shapes and sizes.

Although all of these types of safari tours are absolutely splendid, the more personalized and intimate your tours, the better your safari experience will be.

African safari tours

So, if you’re deciding which type of safari tours you wish to experience—in terms of quality, luxury, customization, and intimacy—consider using a completely private safari guide throughout your entire stay in Africa. Here’s why:

1. No matter where you travel, your personal safari guide will accompany you to that destination and guide all of your safaris—the ultimate in superior service.
2. You decide when and where you want to go. If you want to stay in a particular area for longer than planned, the choice is up to you. For example, if you love elephants and want to stick around to watch two baby elephants play in the watering hole, you may do so. Your guide has no other requests to accommodate but your own.
3. Ask all the questions and take all the pictures you desire. It’s your time.
4. Venture further into the bush than you would on a larger tour. Because your safari guide only has you and your loved one(s) to guide, it’s easier to go deeper into the bush than if there were a larger group of individuals to look after.
5. When you use a personal safari guide throughout your entire trip to Africa, he or she gets to know your likes and dislikes, and will work to ensure every little detail is looked upon to make for the perfect safari experiences.

So, whether you wish to take an African honeymoon safari or a family safari, a one-on-one experience with a highly trained safari guide is the most rewarding way to experience the bush. But, it is important to remember that although personal guides can bring you closer into the bush and offer customized tours based on your specific preferences and desires, safety and your best interest is always your guide’s number one priority. A request that is unsafe will not be accommodated by your guide.

1. A hippo or crocodile is going to turn over my canoe while I’m on a mokoro (canoe) safari: Crocodiles and hippos are often busy bathing in the sun and will pay very little attention to a canoe passing by. Besides, the mokoro is way too large for a hippo or crocodile to consume, so why even bother?

In addition to the animals’ sheer lack of care for your mokoro passing by, mokoro safari guides are highly qualified and trained with years of experience before embarking on a mokoro safari with guests. Guides know which areas to avoid and what animals to keep a distance from. Guides also carry a hand-held radio at all times for quick communication to the camp base in case of an emergency.

2. A lion or rhino might attack me on a walking safari tour: Often, you will not see any big game at all on a walking safari but you know they are there as you see signs, such as a fresh leopard track, a worn elephant trail, the warning bark of a secretive bushbuck, or the unmistakable scent of a recently past  elephant herd. These animals would rather carry on their daily life than worry about you—much less attack you.

If you were to encounter a predator while on a walking safari, you are accompanied by an armored and highly trained guide who understands animal behavior and territorial boundaries.  But it is very important to be with people who know what they’re doing. It’s important to ensure that you are with a guide who has the experience and training to handle the unpredictable situations that can develop quickly. A guide with experience can read a situation and avoid it before it even happens. A good guide develops a feel and instinct for the world around him or her, as they spend thousands of hours in the field.

3. A safari camp is the same thing as camping out in the woods with pitiful tents and sleeping bags—not to mention all the bugs: These campsites are often far from your traditional “camping” experience. With amenities and features such as heated water for morning showers, extremely spacious interiors, luxurious bedding and sleeping conditions, and lavish English breakfasts in the morning, you’ll quickly realize that these tents are built for luxury not mobility.

4. I’m going to be doing the same thing every day because big game-viewing is the only thing to do in Africa: Not every country and reserve in Africa is grassland. Some places don’t even offer vehicle safaris, which makes your safari itinerary diverse with a handful of varying activities such as hot air balloon rides, mokoro safaris, horse back riding safaris, cultural tours, and more.

Although zebras, antelope, and buffalo are an absolute thrill to see in the wild, you’re senses will begin to become more attuned to the regional-specific creatures, which, once you take the time to look at, are absolutely fascinating. It’s when you slow down that you start to see the interesting things.

Lunch at La Colombe Restaurant

5. I’m going to hate the food: Often, first-time travelers to Africa are either under the impression that the food will be completely British-based or bizarre meats and delicacies. Both of those assumptions are completely false. In fact, visitors to Africa often have the choice between more traditional African dishes or westernized dishes for the more conservative eater.

6. I’m not going to be able to communicate with anyone: Mostly everyone you interact with speaks English—this includes all safari guides, lodge / camp staff, as well as some of the locals.

7. The mosquitoes are going to be awful: The mosquitoes aren’t as bad as some are led to believe. Some lodges / camps provide mosquito nets if there is the possibility of them getting into your room at night, but most of the time, this is merely a precautionary measure.

During the day, whether you’re enjoying a game drive, walking safari, or mokoro safari, using the right materials to prevent mosquitoes will ensure that you are not exposed to bites. We suggest using bug spray each day and treating your clothes with bug repellent.

Although malaria is a serious disease that has affected many areas of Africa, travelers can avoid this disease by taking the proper medication throughout their stay in Africa and employing the tips above during their stay.

Raising the bar for conservation activists around the world, Great Plains Conservation is taking phenomenal strides to expand its influence on Africa and India alike. In their relentless efforts to conserve and enhance the wildlife of Africa, sustain local communities and economies, and provide visitors to Africa with the ultimate experience, many of the movers and shakers of conservation efforts from all over Africa are joining forces with Great Plains Conservation to execute one of the greatest conservation visions known to the world.

Together, these conservation tourism partners are working hard to protect the many fragile eco-systems and the animals that inhabit them by initiating conservation models that fight to prevent poaching, hunting, mining, pollution, and habitat abuse.

Further, Great Plains Conservation and its partners are quickly proving that their authentic and superior accommodations and services are some of the best in all of Africa.

Such conservation tourism partners joining Great Plains Conservation include . . .

Selinda Reserve & Zarafa and Selinda Camps: Located on the eastern banks of the Selinda Spillway, the waterway that connects the Okavango Delta and the Linyanti water system, the 300-000 acre Selinda Reserve is speckled with wildlife-rich floodplains and savannas. Each of its complex eco-systems are home to a delightful mixture of wildlife including the elusive lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, water birds, leopard, and much more. Every day that you spend in the Selinda Reserve is a new day of spectacular adventure and wildlife observation.

Ol Donyo Wuas: As a symbol of authenticity, tradition, and conservation, Ol Donyo Wuas is one of Kenyas most exceptional and highly-acclaimed lodges. Its neighboring areas are home to the Big Five, making it the premier location for 4X4 game drives and walking safarisincluded in the lodge’s all-inclusive rate. Also included in the rate are horseback safaris past Mt Kilimanjaro, hiking up the Chyulu Hills, mountain biking the savannas, rooftop star beds, and exciting night drives.

Olare Orok Conservancy & Mara Plains Camp: Situated on the Masai Mara Game Reserve, Mara Plains camp is in the heart of Africas largest concentration of lions, as well as the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. With that in mind, its not hard to believe that Mara Plains is one of the best camps in all of Africa for those seeiking adventure and exceptional wildlife sightings. In an effort to preserve the 375,000 acres that make up the reserve and sustain the local community and economy, Mara Plains Camp is a major player in conservation efforts.

The Selous Project & Lekula Selous Camp: Comprised of a full team of expert staff who believe in bringing the spirit of Africa and its radiant wildernesses to life for each and every guest, highly-experienced and certified guides at Tanzanias Lukula Selous Camp have the unique ability to immerse every guest into their natural surroundings. Through their rich knowledge of the land, people, and animals, safari participants discover traditional tracking techniques and a variety of indigenous wildlife found throughout the area.

Ride Kenya: As an affiliate of Ol Donyo Wuas, Ride Kenya is a horseback safari operation that offers half- and full-day riding safaris, as well as their infamous multiday luxury mobile horse safari. With access to over 1.4 million acres of unspoiled landscape, guests have the exclusive opportunity to ride amongst wildlife as they journey past the magnificent slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, through the giraffe speckled savannas, and over the dry lakebeds of Amboseli on horseback. The possibilities are endless.

There are also several non-profit trusts that partner with Great Plains including The Big Cat Initiative, The Maasailand Preservation Trust, and The Island Conservation Society.

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Greystoke Mahale camp, located at the edge of western Tanzania, is the embodiment of a distant paradise. Removed from the main tourist attractions of Tanzania, Greystoke Mahale is for travelers looking for the epitome of luxury, authenticity, and intimacy.

With a phenomenal location nestled between the Mahale Mountains within the privacy of towering trees and shady palms, each of Greystoke s six bandas overlooks the gleaming Lake Tanganyika. Here, visitors can enjoy relaxing days on the beach and in the water, spectacular sunsets off the horizon of this regal lake, and elegant dinners beneath the stars. The possibilities are truly endless.

But arguably, Greystoke s most captivating and famous feature is its nearby chimpanzee population. With the largest concentration of chimps in the world, the slopes of the Mahale Mountains offer visitors to Greystoke spectacular opportunities to observe these highly-intelligent creatures in the wild.

What you’ll see on a chimpanzee trekking excursion . . .

Chimp trekking is an absolute must when visiting Greystoke Mahale and is one of the most rewarding experiences.

As you enjoy a delightful walk through the lush forest behind Greystoke, a surprising mystery awaits you on the soft green slopes of the Mahale Mountains. With nearly 1,000 chimps living in the surrounding Gombe National Park, you ll see a variety of chimp families playing, foraging, and socializing.

One such family, known as The M Group, is comprised of individuals that live close to Greystoke and each have very specific character traits. For example, Pimu, the alpha male, is known for his dominant and aggressive behavior with females and the other males, while other chimps are famous for their high intelligence.

After just a few minutes with these magnificent creatures, you ll begin to see unique characteristics that separate each chimp from the next. You ll also immediately notice distinct correlations between the behavior of these chimps and that of humans.

In fact, the local tribe of Mahale believes that these beautiful creatures were once humans who moved into the woods and have now evolved into what we see today.

Whether you want to partake in chimp trekking each day of your vacation or one or two days of your trip, the staff at Greystoke can accommodate for all your needs and desires. For each trekking expedition, you ll be able to sit and observe the chimps for one hour at a time observing their everyday interactions and social behavior.

In addition to the impressive chimps, you ll also encounter eight other species of primates, leopard, buchbuck, bushpigs, and a wide spectrum of exotic bird and insect species, while on your tropical forest hike.

As one of the world’s most interactive and highly unique hotels, Giraffe Manor is home to resident Rothschild giraffe that add beauty and grace to the manicured grounds of an already stunning and exclusive hotel.  In addition to its giraffe herd, Giraffe Manor’s 140 acre forest is also home to playful warthogs, bush buck, and an eclectic mix of bird species, and offers astonishing views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Ngong Hills.

The Rothschild giraffe, characterized by their gentle nudges, friendly eyes, and curious demeanor, is an astounding creature—not only to observe, but also to interact with. Unlike any other place in the world, Giraffe Manor allows you to get closer to these animals than you ever imagined. Whether you’re eager to pet the giraffes at the hotel entrance, feed them at breakfast, or photograph them as they peak through the sunroom, you’ll feel truly rewarded by the mere sight of these magnificent animals and have a new appreciation for the wildlife of eastern Africa.

Staying at the Giraffe Manor:

Located a few miles outside of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, the Giraffe Manor provides an intimate setting for families and honeymooners alike who are looking for the ultimate private retreat. Tastefully decorated with antique furnishings, fine linens, grandiose beds, and spacious bathrooms, the Manor’s 5 double bedroom suites and larger suite offer an exceptionally comfortable stay for all visitors.

Rates at the Giraffe Manor include all meals, wine with lunch and dinner, alcoholic beverages (sans champagne), laundry services, sightseeing vehicle, and admission to The Giraffe Centre.

Historical Roots:

Built in 1932 and modeled after a Scottish hunting lodge, the Manor reflects its historical European roots and exudes an old-world charm with its ivy-covered façade. Although this quaint hotel has changed hands several times over the years, its traditional ambiance and exterior structure has remained intact. One thing that has changed is the use of this countryside masterpiece.

Once a home for Jock and Betty Melville, this estate began its transformation toward helping giraffes survive and avoid extinction. In 1974, the Rothschild giraffe species was faced with extinction as their natural habitat was being destroyed. Jock and Betty provided a home for two giraffes during this year, which marked the beginning of their efforts toward saving this beautiful species.

One of Jock and Betty’s greatest contributions to the environment and local community was the establishment of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW), which helped to fund The Giraffe Centre. This Giraffe Centre was built on Jock and Betty’s property for Kenyan school children to learn about ecology and conservation efforts while interacting with the giraffes.  Today, you can visit the Centre where admission fee proceeds are donated to projects throughout Kenya. Or, you can choose to stay overnight in comfort and luxury at the Giraffe Manor.

As one of the world’s most interactive and highly unique hotels, Giraffe Manor is home to resident Rothschild giraffe that add beauty and grace to the manicured grounds of an already stunning and exclusive hotel.  In addition to its giraffe herd, Giraffe Manor’s 140 acre forest is also home to playful warthogs, bush buck, and an eclectic mix of bird species, and offers astonishing views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Ngong Hills.

The Rothschild giraffe, characterized by their gentle nudges, friendly eyes, and curious demeanor, is an astounding creature—not only to observe, but also to interact with. Unlike any other place in the world, Giraffe Manor allows you to get closer to these animals than you ever imagined. Whether you’re eager to pet the giraffes at the hotel entrance, feed them at breakfast, or photograph them as they peak through the sunroom, you’ll feel truly rewarded by the mere sight of these magnificent animals and have a new appreciation for the wildlife of eastern Africa.

Staying at the Giraffe Manor:

Located a few miles outside of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, the Giraffe Manor provides an intimate setting for families and honeymooners alike who are looking for the ultimate private retreat. Tastefully decorated with antique furnishings, fine linens, grandiose beds, and spacious bathrooms, the Manor’s 5 double bedroom suites and larger suite offer an exceptionally comfortable stay for all visitors.

Rates at the Giraffe Manor include all meals, wine with lunch and dinner, alcoholic beverages (sans champagne), laundry services, sightseeing vehicle, and admission to The Giraffe Centre.

Historical Roots:

Built in 1932 and modeled after a Scottish hunting lodge, the Manor reflects its historical European roots and exudes an old-world charm with its ivy-covered façade. Although this quaint hotel has changed hands several times over the years, its traditional ambiance and exterior structure has remained intact. One thing that has changed is the use of this countryside masterpiece.

Once a home for Jock and Betty Melville, this estate began its transformation toward helping giraffes survive and avoid extinction. In 1974, the Rothschild giraffe species was faced with extinction as their natural habitat was being destroyed. Jock and Betty provided a home for two giraffes during this year, which marked the beginning of their efforts toward saving this beautiful species.

One of Jock and Betty’s greatest contributions to the environment and local community was the establishment of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW), which helped to fund The Giraffe Centre. This Giraffe Centre was built on Jock and Betty’s property for Kenyan school children to learn about ecology and conservation efforts while interacting with the giraffes.  Today, you can visit the Centre where admission fee proceeds are donated to projects throughout Kenya. Or, you can choose to stay overnight in comfort and luxury at the Giraffe Manor.

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

The formula for the ultimate destination honeymoon may be subjective, but one part of the destination honeymoon equation I think we can all agree on is the outcome: romance. But, if you’re like many honeymooners who come to us looking, not only for romance, but also for adventure and relaxation, you’ll find an African honeymoon safari exceeds your expectations for the ultimate destination honeymoon.

One of our clients’ favorite places to enjoy a romantic honeymoon safari is at Greystoke Mahale. Designed with impeccable precision and taste and a strong appreciation for nature, the camp’s six bandas were constructed with old dhow timber, authentic honeymoon safari style interiors, and an open-front layout. Each and every luxurious detail of these quaint bungalows uniquely compliments the wilderness they’re located within. Nestled within a forest rich with mysterious wildlife and a variety of curious primates, Greystoke Mahale is a lively hub for exploration.

Aside from its exceptional design and layout, Greystoke Mahale is home to incredible and rare creatures living right outside the camp, including nine species of primates, leopard, bushbuck, and bush pig. Hiking in the tropical forest, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris, and canoeing safaris are just a few spectacular ways to experience the adventure and beauty of the Tanzania wilderness.

Although adventure is a wonderful component of a honeymoon safari, there is more to it then excitement and high-energy activities. There needs to be romance, relaxation, and rejuvenation seamlessly woven in.

Here are a few ways to be adventurous and to relax with nature and connect as newlyweds at Greystoke Mahale:

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Relaxing bush walks vs. chimpanzee trekking: Enjoy a relaxing bush walk through the forests surrounding Greystoke for a rare insight into a variety of primates, vibrant birds, and bush animals or, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, partake in one of the lodge’s chimpanzee trekking safaris. It’s important to note that the chimpanzee trekking safaris are a bit more strenuous than the bush walks and often require more elevated walking. We suggest a slow-paced walking safari for the days you want to relax and a chimpanzee trekking safari for days you feel more adventurous!

Soft golden beaches vs. the “chill out” deck: Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak in the sun during the day, or a place to enjoy a candlelit dinner for two, the beach and the “chill out” deck both offer the ultimate barefoot setting. For a more secluded experience, relax in the privacy of your own chalet as you walk upstairs to your private “chill out” deck to observe the singing birds and charming butterflies—also perfect for star gazing and eating a delicious dinner at night.

For the mornings you want to lie on the beach, step outside the front entrance of your chalet right onto the beach—merely steps from the comfort of your bed. Whether you want to take a nighttime stroll on the beach, relax by the lake during the day, sip sundowners at the bar on the rocks, or enjoy a romantic dinner for two on the beach beneath the stars, you can have it all.

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Fishing vs. Kayaking: On days you want to experience a hint of adventure, take one of Greystoke’s kayaks on the lake for a closer look at the coastal wildlife and vegetation, or, if you’d rather drop a line in the water with a cocktail in hand, you can catch a variety of fish as the lake is home to over 250 species of fish.

With its ideal location in the Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is a short drive to a variety of game reserves including Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Addo Elephant Park, and a handful of other smaller reserves where visitors can view a wide spectrum of diverse fauna and flora as well as the Big Five.

Port Elizabeth is also known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. As the second oldest city in South Africa, Port Elizabeth is celebrate for its Xhosa heritage and a wide spectrum of historical landmarks such as the Historic Donkin Heritage Trail, Old Hill, old-world architecture, and stunning parks comprised of intricate gardens and gorgeous green fields.

Although Port Elizabeth is famous for its beauty and abundance of activities, some argue that nothing compares to visiting a local township where you can interact with locals, learn about their everyday lifestyles, and immerse yourself in an enlightening cultural experience.

For those looking to travel off the beaten path, a tour with Calabash Tours is the perfect way to open your eyes to hidden areas you would have never seen on your own. What separates Calabash Tours from other tour providers is their superior expertise and knowledge of the area as well as their ability to open your eyes to both urban and rural cultures. Whether you’re looking to take a safari tour through a nearby game reserve or tour a local Xhosa township, Calabash Tours brings you up-close to it all.

But Calabash Tours offers more than exceptional tours through Port Elizabeth’s townships and adjacent game reserves. As a Fair Trade In Tourism (FTTSA) certified touring company, Calabash Tours gives back to the local economy, communities, and school systems, and works to sustain the local environment to ensure a thriving wilderness.

Select from a variety of excellent Calabash Tours, including . . .

The Addo Day Tour:

Home to the largest population of elephants on the planet, Addo Elephant Park is the perfect place to spend a day while visiting Port Elizabeth. During your tour through Addo Elephant Park you’ll see mother elephants tending to their young, as well as antelopes, zebras, lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, and more. As you observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, Calabash Tours’ exceptional guides will provide you with their rich knowledge on the behavior and lifestyle of these animals.

The Real City Tour:

Calabash Tours provides you with a deep insight into the local villages and people as you venture to the nearby townships of Kwazakhele, Zwide, and New Brighton. During this visit, you’ll discover what it was like for South Africans during the apartheid and how their social history has shaped their existence today. You’ll also travel down one of the main shopping streets where street vendors sell their products and works of art, visit a local community-run children’s school (where some of the funds from your tour fee goes to), and tour through Red

Location—the oldest township in South Africa.

During your trip to the local townships, you’ll partake in one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime as you witness the excitement and eagerness of the locals to share with you their lives and history. Throughout the entire tour you will learn about the history of Port Elizabeth as you interact with the guides and locals. Because you are not traveling in a closed vehicle, you have the rare opportunity to interact with the locals without the barriers of a car or bus window.

Shebeen Tours:

If you love the social atmosphere of a pub than you’ll absolutely love this tour. Shebeens, which were previously outlawed, are places where the local community gets together for drinks, music, and dancing. The shebeen is a way for locals to socialize and enjoy a drink while listening to live music. On this tour, you’ll experience the entertaining atmosphere of a variety of shebeens and have the opportunity to interact with the local Xhosa people, and enjoy a traditional dinner and drinks!