Most people planning a trip to Africa know that many of the large predators on the continent include lions and venomous snakes—but Africa is also home to many deadly creatures that are much smaller (NOTE: these creatures do not pose any serious threat to travelers. This post is intended to simply introduce you to some of these creatures that you will likely not come in contact with while traveling to Africa). Here’s a look at some of the most dangerous tiny creatures that call Africa home.

Six-Eyed Sand Spider: Found in sandy places (including deserts) in southern Africa, this eight-legged creature hides in the sand and strikes when an animal gets too close to its home. The bad news is that its venom can kill a rabbit in a matter of hours, but the good news is that no confirmed human bites have ever been reported. This deadly spider is also mercifully shy.

Image above taken from GoAfrica.about.com.

Deathstalker Scorpion: Located throughout northern African countries, this brightly colored arachnid has the most highly toxic venom of any of its species. While healthy adults are not likely to die from a deathstalker’s sting, the elderly, very young, and those with medical conditions might be at risk. Luckily, a number of European pharmaceutical companies manufacture anti-venoms specifically for deathstalker bites.

Image above taken from PetBugs.com.

Mantella Poison Frogs: Concentrated largely in Madagascar, Mantella frogs have brightly colored skin that alerts other animals and humans to their toxic qualities. While a Mantella frog’s skin contains significant levels of toxins, humans are at little risk because their bright hues make these frogs easily avoidable.

Image above taken from mantella.amphibiancare.com

Blowfish: Known by many names (including pufferfish, toad fish, and sugar toads, among others), this spiky swimmer can be deadly to humans—but only when eaten. Though blowfish are found in some African water bodies, they are not generally served as food in this part of the world. (The Japanese, on the other hand, consider blowfish a delicacy and chefs in Japan train to learn how to prepare it so that it’s safe).

Image above taken from FactZoo.com

Tarantula Hawk Wasp: Technically, this wasp is only deadly to tarantula spiders, but its behavior is too fascinating not to include in this list. Female hawk wasps prey on tarantulas; after stinging them, a wasp drags the paralyzed spider to her nest, where she lays an egg in the spider’s body. The egg matures and hatches in the tarantula, which remains alive the entire time! After consuming the spider’s body for nourishment, the baby hawk wasp emerges. Word to the wise: even though hawk wasps aren’t deadly to humans, their stings are considered among the most painful in the world.

Image above taken from SDRP.org

Staying Safe on an African Vacation

It’s important to remember that deadly animal species live on every inhabited continent—not just in Africa! Part of traveling safely and healthily is learning about the risks you might face on the road—and preparing to keep yourself well.

Loved this post? Check out one of our previous blog posts on Africa’s Most Dangerous Animals Revealed.

Whether you’re on an African honeymoon safari, celebrating your 30^th wedding anniversary, or need a break from the kids on your family safari vacation, the spas of southern Africa provide the perfect retreat for a little much-needed “me” time.

Below are 3 of the best spa and relaxation experiences to be had in southern Africa:

Image to the left taken from the Tswalu Kalahari website.

The Spa at Tswalu Kalahari: Winner of The Best Safari Spa Award in the Les Nouvelles Esthétiques 2011 Spa Awards, the Tswalu Kalahari spa is one of South Africa’s most celebrated spas. According to a recent press release from Tswalu Kalahari, the managing editor of Les Nouvelles Esthétiques, Dr. Nadine de Freitas, says “In judging the spas, we look for the personalised aspects in the spa visit, in addition to absolute attention to detail, impeccable spa standards and faultless service excellence, which all adds up to a spa experience which is beyond the client’s expectations.” And the Tswalu Kalahari spa undoubtedly fits each of these descriptions.

Recently renovated in both design and spa treatment selections, the Tswalu Kalahari spa is constantly working to enhance client experience. Currently, the spa offers a variety of specialty treatments, including the signature Tswalu touch experience, an aromatic candle massage, and a hot stone massage—just to name a few. The signature Tswalu touch experience, for example, immerses guests into a state of deep relaxation while rejuvenating and cleansing the skin. Specifically, guests can choose between a natural red dune sand or desert crystal exfoliation before they receive a Kalahari stone massage fusion—unique to Tswalu Kalahari.

Arabella Hotel & Spa: Recognized for its contemporary, yet tranquil, environment, the spa at Arabella Hotel & Spa reflects a unique fusion of relaxation, comfort, and pure luxury. This award-winning spa is primarily known for its lavish African Rainforest Experience treatment, which consists of “a two-hour sensory water and steam treatment using African products and inspired by African rains.” The spa at Arabella prides itself on its unsurpassed ability to bring both Eastern and Western therapeutic philosophies to life in all of its spa treatments. This is the perfect spa for those looking to find inner balance and restore their bodies’ nutrients.

Image above taken from the African Pride Hotels website.

Londolozi’s Granite Suites River Baths: Many of the luxury accommodations in southern Africa offer romantic outdoor bush bath experiences, but Londolozi’s Granite Suites arguably offers the best. This rejuvenating experience takes place in natural surroundings that overlook a quaint river bank, submerging guests into a state of complete relaxation. With the distant sounds of moving water, chirping birds, and the rustle of the ebony tree leaves, there is nothing more serene and rejuvenating than a Londolozi River Bath.

Are you thinking about planning an African safari vacation? If so, sign up to receive a copy of our Your Unique Guide to Southern & Eastern Africa PDF by entering your email address into the subscription box on the right hand sidebar.

Africa is internationally-celebrated for its luxury eco-friendly lodges, with some of the most lavish low-impact accommodations in the entire world.

Below are five of our favorite eco-friendly lodges—perfect for honeymoon safaris and family safaris, alike—found throughout Africa:

Image to the left taken from the Borana Lodge website.

Borana Lodge: Located on a conservation area, overlooking the distant peaks of Mount Kenya, Borana Lodge’s magical setting transports visitors into a realm of complete relaxation and inspiration. With several conservation projects underway, Borana Lodge sets the bar high for other organizations and lodges looking to make a strong, sustainable impact on local communities and the environment.

Owned by the Dyer family for three generations, Borana Lodge continues to uphold the same standards of conservation it was so famous for from its first beginnings. Borana Lodge works closely with the local people to develop community upliftment, education, poverty alleviation, health support, and employment, and also to protect the local environment through wildlife conservation and habitat management. To ensure that each of these areas receives proper attention, much of the profits Borana receives are divided into each project to help sustain and build the community and environment.

Some of Borana’s projects include the Seven Elephants Nursery, Organic Herbs & Spices, Borana Mobile Clinic, Education Support Program, and Borana Forestry Project, to name a few.

Image to the right taken from the Campi Ya Kanzi website.

Campi Ya Kanzi: In an effort to create a self-sustaining community in the local Maasai tribal lands, Campi Ya Kanzi has established the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust (MWCT).

The approach of MWCT is holistic, providing benefits to both the environment and to the local Maasai people of East Africa. MWCT believes that the land is the fundamental base to creating a self-sustaining East Africa. When the land is healthy and thriving, the people and the wildlife, in turn, will benefit. In order to finance these tremendously beneficial initiatives, Campi Ya Kanzi was established to attract tourism. Guests at Campi Ya Kanzi don’t only visit for the pristine wilderness and biodiversity of the area, but also for the authentic cultures they come across. When land, wilderness, and culture can be preserved, travelers will come to experience authentic Africa.

Today, Campi Ya Kanzi and the trust employ more than 200 locals, not only providing them with fair wages, but also engaging them in wildlife conservation efforts.

Image to the left taken from the Rekero Camp website.

Rekero Camp: With one of the most powerful philosophies, “Take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints,” Rekero Camp is one of the world’s leading low-impact accommodations.

Nestled along the route of the annual Great Migration, a migratory movement of millions of animals including the wildebeest and zebra, Rekero Camp offers visitors a chance to witness one of Mother Nature’s most astonishing natural phenomena.

With nothing but the utmost respect for nature and its delicate biodiversity, as well as the local people and communities, Rekero Camp puts forth tireless efforts to ensure that the wilderness, cultures, and tourism work together in harmony. Through tourism, Rekero Camp can share the beauty of Africa with visitors from around the world, while alleviating local poverty and increasing environmental awareness in the local communities.

We could write a book on all of the exceptional eco-friendly lodges in Africa. The above three lodges and camps are just a few of our favorite responsible accommodations. Some of our other favorites include:

• Ol Malo
• Singita Pamushana
• Ol Donyo Was
• Chishakwe
• Londolozi Private Game Reserve
• Selinda Wilderness Safaris’ Little Makalolo

Which lodge would you love to stay in?

In celebration of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, I’m spotlighting just one of our favorite shark dive providers in South Africa. In fact, we have a honeymoon safari client going on a shark dive in mid August, which they’re very excited about!

Before I go into detail about shark diving excursions, I’d first like to point out a few interesting and spine-tingling facts about the sharks of South Africa:

• Out of the 400 species of sharks in the world, South Africa’s waters contain nearly 100 different shark species. Some of the most popular species in Africa’s coastal waters include the whale shark, tiger shark, black tip shark, hammerhead shark, bull shark, and, of course, the infamous great white shark.
• When the HMS Birkenhead sunk in 1852 off the coast of Gansbaai, many men met their fate in the presence of the water’s great white sharks. These sharks were referred to by the British soldiers as Blue Pointers and Tommy Sharks.
• It is believed that during great white breeding, the male bites down on the female to achieve a grip. Many females are missing chunks of flesh because of this violent act.
• Bull sharks are often found in many of the waters that surround Africa and have even been known to travel into freshwater. They can survive in both saltwater and freshwater.

Below I’ve spotlighted one of our favorite, trusted shark diving providers, Apex Shark Expeditions:

Image to the left taken from the Apex Shark Expeditions’ website.

Apex Shark Expeditions: You’ve probably seen the Apex dive team and researchers featured on the Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, both this year and last year (See image to the left. Recognize them?). They are a team of highly knowledgeable divers and researchers with a deep passion for sharks. Through these specialized shark diving tours, the Apex team strives to educate travelers on shark behavior and their importance within the circle of life.

To ensure that each traveler experiences the best dive possible, Apex only takes small groups out at a time. This helps travelers feel more comfortable, and it allows them to fully absorb the personalized experience and educational elements of the trip.

One of the reasons why we love to use Apex is because they are willing to cater to each small group’s particular interests and needs. Whether you would like a completely private tour or wish to perform research or film or photograph these creatures, the Apex team is extremely flexible with accommodating traveler needs.

Some of Apex’s tours include great white shark dive trips, dive trips catered to spotting other types of sharks such as the blue shark and mako shark, seven gill cow shark dive, whale trips, and Cape fur seal dives. They also offer specialized 5 – 10 day tours throughout the year.

Here’s just a little taste of what you might experience on a Great White Shark Morning Dive:

• Leave for Seal Island (a major gathering spot for great whites) and arrive right before sunrise to watch the great whites during their morning predation routine. You’ll also be able to get an up-close look at the adorable Cape fur seals that call Seal Island their home. And keep an eye out for great whites—you might see these magnificent creatures breach during their hunt for Cape fur seals.
• The team will then release a fake seal decoy that is towed behind the boat. This is used to trigger sharks’ predatory behavior so that guests can observe natural great white behavior.
• The crew will then anchor the boat and drop the cage in (the cage is attached to the side of the boat). Before each diver enters the water, he or she is informed of safety precautions and operational protocols. If you do not wish to dive, you can still see the great whites from the comfort of the boat.

Some of our other preferred shark dive providers include Marine Dynamics and White Shark Projects, both vendors are Fair Trade in Tourism certified.

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Have you been pining over where you want to take your honeymoon in 2011 or 2012? If you’re looking for a trip that steps outside the boundaries of a traditional Caribbean honeymoon, then southern and eastern Africa is where you want to be.

As we all know, Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in Kenya, so it must be romantic, right? Absolutely! Not to mention, they took their honeymoon in Seychelles, a romantic retreat off the coast of Africa. So what is it about Africa that woos romantics and newlyweds to its exotic lands?

Here are our top 20 reasons why southern and eastern Africa should be your #1 honeymoon destination:

1. Endemic and exotic wildlife: From birds to primates, and carnivorous mammals to peculiar reptiles, there are hundreds of species of animal found throughout Africa that are endemic to the continent and can be found nowhere else on earth in their natural habitat. When you visit Africa on your honeymoon, you’ll get up close to some of the world’s most exotic and celebrated creatures—a rare opportunity that is often witnessed on The Discovery Channel, rather than in person.

2. Isolated beaches: What’s more romantic than walking barefoot along uninhabited beaches as the sun melts behind the horizon? Whether you’re exploring the beaches of Zanzibar, the Garden Route, or Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, you’ll find complete relaxation and privacy as your mind drifts into peace with your loved one.

3. Sinfully delicious cuisine: From delectable local fruits and vegetables to freshly caught seafood, and exotic spices to premier meats, southern and eastern Africa offer travelers an array of exquisite culinary options. And for a taste of international delights, visit the bustling foodie-scene in the famous Cape Town, South Africa. With a variety of elegant, eclectic, and romantic bistros, cafes, and restaurants to choose from, you’ll have no trouble seeking out decadent dishes.

4. Nature-inspired luxury accommodations: Find a deep connection to nature when you stay in one of southern and eastern Africa’s lavish lodges, camps, or safari houses. With a combination of modern amenities and design, paired with natural textures and materials, Africa’s plush accommodations reflect an indescribable ambiance that is both private and romantic. Not to mention, all of your needs and wishes are instantly catered to by attentive staff members who are there to ensure that your honeymoon is everything you’ve always dreamed of.

Marlin Lodge Executive Suite

5. Colorful cultures: Many travelers to Africa would argue that activities that enabled them to interact with the people of this great continent were what made the largest impact on them. The people you come in contact with while in Africa will most likely be the most genuine and hospitable individuals you will ever meet. Their smiles, gentleness, sense of welcoming, laughter, kindness, and joy in providing you with happiness on your trip are so powerful that you cannot help but feel transformed by their energy. Imagine experiencing the beauty of the African people with your loved one, as you forge new relationships with others.

6. Adventurous safaris: What better way to start your marriage then with an adventurous safari through Africa’s wildlife-dense savannah plains? Imagine embarking on an exhilarating journey in search of the elusive leopard, or tracking the rare black rhino. Whether you wish to explore the vast regions via Land Rover, mokoro (canoe), foot, horseback, or hot air balloon, you’ll always find something new and stimulating in the bush, no matter your mode of transportation.

7. Mysterious deserts: Find sheer beauty in the rolling red sand dunes of the Namib Desert as you glide over the vast region in a hot air balloon. As you open a bottle of champagne with your new spouse and toast to a lifetime of spectacular memories, the magnificent dunes of Namibia provide the ultimate romantic backdrop.

8. Picturesque landscapes: Most of Africa’s landscapes are untouched, making much of this continent some of the last natural frontiers in the world. Explore these inspirational landscapes with your loved one and take in the sheer beauty of Africa’s natural surroundings. From tropical destinations to lush forests, and swamp-covered lands to sprawling savannah plains, Africa is celebrated for its vast biodiversity and unique mixture of eco-systems.

9. Fascinating underwater worlds: Whether you and your (new) spouse are first-time snorkelers or avid scuba divers, southern and eastern Africa offer some of the most enchanting underwater experiences for all travelers. From colorful reefs to sharks, sea turtles to reef fish, and whales to sting rays, your time shared together beneath the water will be one of your most memorable.

10. Lavish spas: Enjoy revitalizing spa treatments for two at one of southern and eastern Africa’s most renowned spas. Each and every luxury spa offers signature treatments that often utilize local plants, resources, and therapy methods. This helps build a connection between your body and the nature of Africa.

Stay tuned for Part II of this post!

When we think of our dream honeymoon, we often picture a magical destination that embodies exclusivity and romance. A place where dreams come true and fantasies transform into reality. And when we leave? We’re left with shared memories that remain with us for eternity.

As one of the world’s most enchanting and romantic cities, it’s no wonder Cape Town, South Africa has positioned itself as one of the best honeymoon destinations. Centrally located among exquisite neighboring regions, including the Garden Route and Cape Winelands, honeymooners to Cape Town can enjoy a chic urban atmosphere, a serine beach setting, and a lush countryside.

1. Wine tasting on horseback: A short drive from Cape Town, Cape Winelands can be experienced in one day or several days—the choice is up to you. But beware: the pungent, earthy aromas and picturesque landscape of this vivid countryside will capture your heart instantly and beckon you to stay longer. And as soon as you embark on a wine tasting tour on horseback, you’ll want to stay forever in this charming village-life setting.

On this romantic and personalized horseback tour, you’ll pass through prestigious wine vineyards, sip sensational wines, and talk one-on-one with wine makers, all while century-old Cape Dutch, Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco architecture speckle the backdrop of your tour.

2. Explore the aphrodisiacs of Cape Town: A true lover’s retreat, Cape Town is full of aphrodisiacs that are sure to tickle the sense and satisfy your craving for romance. From freshly caught oysters to flavorful South Africa and international wines, to delectable chocolates to hot chilies and spices, Cape Town offers visitors some of the most delectable aphrodisiacs in the world.

For honeymooners who are oyster lovers, consider visiting South Africa at the end of July when the annual Knysna Oyster Festival takes place. And for chocolate lovers, you’ll definitely want to take part in a private Lindt chocolate-making class where you and your spouse can create chocolates together and delight in their sweetness!

3. Kirstenbosch Gardens: Imagine walking among hundreds of thousands of vibrant flowers as you inhale the pungent aromas of the sweet flora. At Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, you’ll find the most romantic setting to explore South Africa’s indigenous and most renowned flora and cultivated gardens. Comprised of nearly 528 hectares of manicured estate, Kirstenbosch Gardens sits along the breathtaking slopes of Table Mountain, which adds a dramatic contrast to the colorful gardens.

One of the best times to view the garden is during springtime–beginning in July–when bulbs and annuals burst to the surface. New life is present all around the garden–from busy insects to blooming proteas, and ericas to berry heath.

4. Spa treatments: Find inner balance on a couples retreat to one of Cape Town’s most luxurious and sensual spas. There is no better way to revitalize the mind, body, and soul after an African safari than with a signature spa treatment. You and your loved one can experience spa treatments that combine traditional healing powers of nature with revolutionary spa treatments—opportunities that allow you both to connect with the soothing nature of Africa. Many accommodations and spas also offer a bush bath treatment for you and your spouse, accompanied by soft rose petals, champagne, and soothing music.

5. Partake on the Peninsula Tour: Travel from Cape Point to the south-westerly point of Africa, the Cape of Good Hope, on a private tour where you’ll explore towering sea cliffs, exotic flora, astonishing wildlife, quaint walking trails, powdery beaches, and South Africa’s vibrant culture.

During this customized tour, you’ll visit Boulders Beach—home to South Africa’s most renowned species, the African penguin—where you’ll learn about the history and behavior of these adorable little creatures. You’ll also witness a variety of magnificent wildlife including baboons, bontebok, ostriches, an abundance of bird life, and the southern right whales. On the peninsula tour, you’ll not only be able to observe these animals in the wild, but you’ll also learn quirky facts about them, and perhaps even get up-close-and-personal with some.

6. Romantic dinners: Arguably Africa’s culinary capitol, Cape Town is bursting with exotic flavors, trendy dining spots, and romantic backdrops that lure foodies, jet setters, and romantics from around the world to experience one of the most unique culinary sensations in the world. Whether you want to sip international wines at a quaint bistro, experience a traditional contemporary French dining scene, or enjoy a candlelit dinner for two overlooking the sparkling city and harbor, you’re options are truly endless.

7. Mother City Tours: Known as the Mother City, Cape Town is one of Africa’s most culturally and historically rich cities. And the best way to experience all that Cape Town has to offer is on a Mother City Tour. During this tour, you’ll enjoy a trip up Table Mountain via rotating cable car, followed by a tour through the majestic Castle of Good Hope, as well as tours of the gardens, Green Point Light House, The Cape Town Stadium, V & A Waterfront (a phenomenal shopping and restaurant hot spot!), Die Bo Kaap, and District Six.

Follow us on Twitter for more information on South Africa honeymoon safaris.

Whether you’re trying to capture a lion stalking its prey on a bumpy game drive, or attempting to capture a martial eagle in mid flight on a walking safari, photographing Africa’s riveting wildlife can be a tricky task.

We decided to interview Dave Estment, noted wildlife photographer and videographer, on wildlife photography tips. If you missed Part I of this guest interview with the remarkable Dave Estment, click here.

For Part II of Dave’s interview, see below:

In addition to bringing a camera on safari, we also suggest that our clients bring binoculars. What binoculars would you suggest safari-goers purchase?

Yes, travelers should definitely bring binoculars. You can sit for hours watching wildlife through binoculars, and certainly use them to spot photographic opportunities, which is then the time to pull out the camera gear.

In regards to which binoculars to purchase? In my opinion, there is only one choice in terms of value for money and steady viewing, and that’s the the Canon 10 x 30 IS binoculars. These binoculars are extremely well-priced and knock the socks off the opposing brands with its fantastic image stabilization technology. Money really well spent!

You do a lot of wildlife photography that captures flying birds and high-action predators. What tips do you have for amateur photographers who want to capture the action on safari?

For inexperienced action photographers, there are three most important aspects to successful action photography: correct shutter speed, smooth panning, and focus.

No matter what anyone tells you, if you do not have the focal point of any image perfectly in focus, whether it is just the eye of the subject, or just the hairs on a macro subject, or whether it is the focal point of a wide-angle landscape, it is not a perfect shot. PERIOD! Apart from the other parameters requisite in a great image, if the focus is not exactly there, do not waste your time with it.

In a panned, slow-shutter-release shot of a leopard chasing its prey, or a panned high-speed shot of a raptor to freeze the beauty of its feathers and the finer detail, the focal point must be right. Not the tip of the raptor’s wing if you were actually wanting to focus on the eye, not the bush behind the leopard, when you were actually wanting to focus on it or the prey’s eyes, as this will be totally different from the image you were wanting to portray.

So as a rule of thumb, use the highest shutter speed available as your default setting, make sure you pan with the moving subject smoothly, squeeze the shutter release button off like a sniper firing a rifle, SMOOTHLY, and follow the subject through after releasing the shutter.

Once you begin to master this, you can start experimenting with lower shutter speeds and different techniques. Honestly, this is probably the most difficult skill to master in photography, so practice, practice, practice! It is also the single most important ingredient that will distinguish your work.

Remember, auto focus helps a lot, but it is not the Holy Grail by any stretch of the imagination. The human eye, well trained, is the answer. No question.

This is just a brief intro into the magnificent universe of wildlife photography. It is infinitely complex, and takes a lifetime to master, if ever, but I sincerely hope that this short article helps guide you on a magical safari experience.

Dave Estment

Outdoor Video and Photographic

Website: www.ovandp.co.za

Email: dave.e@mweb.co.za

Mobile: +27 82 882 7272

More of Dave’s wildlife work can also be viewed on his wife’s blog: Naomi’s Notes (2010 SA Best Photographic Blog Finalist)

Africa is not only known for its wildlife diversity, but also for its diverse eco-systems and regions. Because of these contrasts, accommodations found throughout Africa range everywhere from mobile tents to deluxe hotels. Depending on what you want to see and do in Africa, you may be limited to the types of accommodations you can stay in. For example, if you want to go on game drives through sprawling plains, you’ll need to stay in a nearby luxury lodge or camp. But if you want to spend part of your trip in a cultural hub, such as Cape Town, you’ll likely stay in a deluxe boutique hotel. We suggest spending a little time in Cape Town before or after visiting a more safari-oriented destination. This enables travelers to experience two different sides of Africa.

Cape Grace Hotel, penthouse room

Below are some of the differences between camps / lodges located in private game reserves and hotels:

Location / Surroundings: Camps and lodges are situated in complete wilderness, with the only outside stimulations coming from nature. Hotels, on the other hand, are located in or just outside of a city. Some of our favorite hotels in Cape Town are nestled at the foot of Table Mountain. Here, visitors can experience beautiful views of the mountain and turn to find stunning views of bustling Cape Town. Other hotels in and around Cape Town can be found along the working harbors and bay areas.

Since hotels in Africa are located in or near cities, hotel guests can easily access city activities, attractions, dining, and entertainment, and even quiet natural surroundings.

Activities: Your activity options are also different when you stay in a hotel. Hotels allow visitors to partake in activities outside of hotel offerings. For example, guests can book a private tour with a separate tour provider one day, and go on a one-day safari outside the hotel area with a separate provider. Activities also tend to be more city-oriented such as city tours, shopping, museum visits, and more.

Camps located in private game reserves, on the other hand, often provide a handful of nature-based activities for guests to take part in, such as game drives, walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, horseback safaris, and more. Guests cannot easily travel to a city for just a day to partake in activities outside of those the camp offers.

Cape Town Harbor

Dining: Because camps are often much smaller than hotels, guests can enjoy customized dishes. For example, if you stay at a small, luxury camp, you’ll be able to request particular dishes that are off the menu. And camps use the freshest local ingredients, which means the menu changes often and can be customized to each guests’ preferences.
Hotels, on the other hand, often have more than one restaurant or are located near other restaurants. This means guests have more dining options, unlike a camp, which only has one dining option. Because restaurants are larger than the dining areas in camps, restaurants usually use international fare in addition to local ingredients.

Service: Deluxe hotels are renowned for their superior service, but because hotels are much larger than camps, the service is often not as personalized. Normally, there are up to five staff members per one guest at a safari camp, which translates to highly personalized service for each individual. Because camps can only hold a handful of guests at one time, activities and dining arrangements are highly flexible. Hotels, on the other hand, must accommodate a larger amount of guests, which can slightly reduce the personalization of their services.

Would you rather stay in a luxury Africa camp or hotel?

Imagine surrounding yourself with the captivating energy, delicate sounds, and unspeakable beauty of Africa’s untouched wildernesses in the comfort and privacy of your very own luxurious canvas tent. As you relax by your private plunge pool, you’ll begin to feel a subtle transformation take place within your body and mind—the pure feeling of relaxation and serenity. A sensation that is nearly impossible to come by in busy, everyday life.

Tented camps are perfect for . . .

• Nature lovers: When you stay in a canvas tent you are literally immersed into your natural surroundings. The designs of these spacious tents often incorporate elements of the outdoors into the décor and enable fresh air to flow in and out via sliding doors and / or open-faced walls. And whenever you step outside, you are welcomed by a panoramic view of an enchanting landscape filled with remarkable wildlife and charismatic beauty. Not to mention, many tented camps are situated near a watering hole where guests can view game coming in for an afternoon drink.

• Honeymooners and romantics: There’s no roughing it in a luxury tented camp, so you’ll never feel dirty or rugged. The ambiance of a luxury camp emits a feeling of romance and bliss that is perfect for honeymooners and romantics, alike. With a lush queen bed fit for royalty, lavish amenities, indoor and outdoor showers with hot and cold water, spacious en-suite facilities, a private game viewing deck, and an all-encompassing natural landscape (**amenities differ depending on the tented camp), you’ll feel right at home in sheer comfort.

• Explorers at heart: Adventure lies right outside your door and every morning yields a fresh new slate for discovery and excitement. Every morning you’ll have the opportunity to embark on an adventurous game drive, walking safari, or other type of excursion and witness big game, vibrant birds, bizarre reptiles and insects, and smaller mammals at an exhilarating, close range.

Tented Camp Myths: You don’t have to be rugged or adventurous to stay in a luxury tented camp because they are extremely high end and feature lavish amenities and en-suite bathroom facilities. Mobile tented camps, on the other hand, are built more for adventurists and can sometimes lack some of the luxury amenities you’ll find in a non-mobile luxury tented camp. The major difference between mobile and non-mobile camps is that non-mobile camps are built primarily with efficiency in mind, so that they can be moved quickly and easily and so that they can follow the migration for example. Non-mobile luxury camps, on the other hand, are built primarily for luxury and making sure that you have the most perfect vacation.

Popular activities to partake in while staying at a luxury tented camp:

In addition to game drives and walking safaris, many camps also offer horseback riding safaris, mokoro (canoe) safaris, elephant-back safaris, hot air balloon rides, and / or helicopter trips.

Our favorite luxury tented camps include (**there are so many wonderful camps, therefore, we just listed a few of our favorites below) . . .

• All of Singita Game Reserve’s tented camps.
• All of Wilderness Safaris’ Premier and Classic camps.
• All of the Great Plains’ camp.
• The Serengeti Safari Camp.
• Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro Camp
• The Amara Simbazi boutique camp.
• And SO many more!

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If you’re attending a family destination wedding in Africa, why not spend a few extra days and make your trip into an unforgettable South Africa family vacation?

For one of our recent clients, David Borthwick, this is just what he did. David, who was visiting South Africa with several family members for a family wedding, had been to South Africa many times in the past. However, he wanted to ensure that his accompanying family members had the best experience possible while visiting for the first time. For this reason, David decided to use Hills of Africa’s travel services.

Photograph taken by our recent client, David Borthwick

See David’s story below:

My sister, based in South Africa, gave us the name of your company in the course of discussing the forthcoming trip to South Africa for a family wedding. Although Hilary and I had been to South Africa many times, on this trip we were being accompanied by several family members who had never been there. For this reason we wished to explore alternative ideas about how to make best and most efficient use of our time, and this led us to seeking your company’s guidance.

Photograph taken at Madikwe Game Reserve by our recent client, David Borthwick

We had not thought of staying outside Cape Town, rather than in the city, and your recommendation of Constantia Stables was interesting. I worried a bit about being “stranded” there, but we went ahead anyway. In the event it was a wonderful choice and we really enjoyed staying there. Also we had not previously used a professional guide around Cape Town. Jacqui Pollok with the Livingston organization was very helpful and we covered much more ground than we would have done otherwise. Using a guide proved to be an excellent decision.

Back in Johannesburg we fell into a trap on accommodation, but this was not of your doing. We booked into a guest house independently. When we arrived there, late in the day, we found the owners had forgotten their obligation and had gone off for a few days in the mountains. We had to scramble quickly and were glad to have our local family there to help us find an alternative. This failed accommodation had been booked through another agent who had made themselves impossible to contact other than by email, so it served as a lesson to us. I thought later that it was very helpful of you to provide local emergency numbers. We did not need to use them, but they were there if necessary.

Photograph of Stellenbosch taken by our recent client, David Borthwick

Finally, the game reserve trip to Royal Madikwe that you organized for us was a spectacular experience. Having a game reserve of that quality within easy reach of Johannesburg—and importantly, malaria free—was just great. The lodge accommodation and the game we saw were beyond any expectation.

Thank you for your guidance and the arrangements you made for us. It was all very helpful and we and the first timers to South Africa all had a memorable experience.

Photograph of Cape Town taken by our recent client David Borthwick

Photograph of an African penguin taken by our recent client David Borthwick

Photograph taken by our recent client David Borthwick

Photograph of Madikwe staff singing taken by our recent client David Borthwick

Photograph taken by our recent client David Borthwick

Photograph of rhino taken by our recent client David Borthwick

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