**All images throughout this post are owned by The Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Situated on a mountain slope among a stunning natural landscape, The Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is located in South Africa’s Western Cape and features two world-class lodges and a lavish villa. The Reserve is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and authenticity.

To give you an even deeper look into just how exceptional The Grootbos Reserve and accommodations are, we had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Lutzeyer, owner of Grootbos. During our interview, Michael discussed the type of exemplary experience travelers receive while visiting this charming, 5-star lodge.

See below for Part I of this interview (**Part II will be published on Wednesday):

1. Describe the type of ambiance visitors witness when they step onto the property. How does this ambiance and location of the property play a significant role in their vacation?

I would say that if a picture paints a thousand words . . . then it is a small wonder that guests of Grootbos Nature Reserve are often rendered speechless, or at the least at a loss for words.

The wonderful view encourages each guest to explore and discover the hidden secrets that lie in this diverse combination of nature and luxury. From the comfort of their free-standing suites, guests are always accompanied by the breathtaking sea and mountain views and surrounding fynbos (a floral variety unique to the area). Personally, living at Grootbos makes me feel like heaven is a place on earth.

2. Please describe the various dining options and experiences, and cuisine offered at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.

Led by Chef Duane Lewis, the restaurant’s young and energetic chef’s team creates “Old School dishes with a modern twist” that are refreshing and contemporary and that represent color, freshness, and simplicity. What Duane personally likes to achieve with his cooking is to celebrate the ingredient and not the recipe. The taste of the ingredients must be kept, but by enhancing and experimenting with it he creates the most extraordinary dishes full of natural flavors and freshness!

As a passionate chef, Duane only uses local ingredients to ensure that our guests can smell, taste, see, and experience the most tantalizing delicacies his kitchen has to offer. Therefore, he feels very privileged to be able to go outside to our own gardens to pick homegrown organic vegetables and herbs. This is one of our biggest compliments of Grootbos and, as a valued patron, it is the chefs’ duty to bring only the best quality to the tables of our guests!

Red Indigo Restaurant

Through the contemporary design of Red Indigo or the warm atmosphere at The Garden, you will be left with the feeling of being in the presence of great style without it coming across as exaggerated or uncomfortable. Both restaurants offer our guests breathtaking views of Walker Bay, and the surrounding fynbos reserve and the décor lend themselves to an unrushed dining experience in the hands of a truly superb service team. As an outdoor dining alternative, the Boma Braai, nestled in our ancient Milkwood Forest, is conducive to a relaxing atmosphere.

The Boma Braai

Like most things at Grootbos Nature Reserve, a lot of thought went into the compiling of our wine list. As Grootbos sees itself as an establishment trying to support the local economy and develop sustainable livelihoods, guests will find a great variety of excellent wines of the surrounding area, which boasts more than 70 wineries, on our wine list! The cellar is also a great venue for romantic and private dinners (up to twelve people).

Follow The Grootbos Nature Reserve on Twitter! And don’t forget to visit our blog on Wednesday for Part II of our interview with Michael.

About Grootbos:

Grootbos Nature Reserve, with its two 5-star lodges and luxury Villa, is spectacularly situated on the fynbos and forest clad hills overlooking the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay on the southern coast of the Western Cape. This is a region of indescribable beauty and Grootbos is committed to protecting this ecosystem and showcasing the many wonders to its guests.

Home to the Marine Big Five – whales, dolphins, seals, penguins and Great White Sharks – and with unparalleled biodiversity, Grootbos has carved a unique niche in the upmarket eco-lodge sector. This multi-award winning 1750 ha reserve is home to more than 750 different species of plants, offers warm hospitality, excellent cuisine, fine South African wines and is a paradise for nature lovers.

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.

Did you enjoy this post? Share it with your followers on Twitter in the spirit of Shark Week!

For many young adults in South Africa, finding employment and education are extremely tough to come by—mostly because the parents of these youths lack sufficient funds to educate their children. But The Singita School of Cooking is opening new doors and presenting endless opportunities for young adults who are determined and motivated to start a career in the hospitality and culinary industry.

We were so inspired by The Singita School of Cooking’s tremendous efforts, that we requested an interview with Verrity Simons, Village Manager & Community Development Officer for Singita Kruger National Park and the overseer for The Singita School of Cooking.

In this exciting interview, Verrity shares with us some of the details of the school and how it helps a selected handful of young adults in the local villages embrace exceptional opportunities.

See below for our interview (NOTE: All images are courtesy of Verrity Simons and Singita Kruger National Park):

1. Last September The Singita School of Cooking interviewed 300 young people and accepted just 8 candidates. What types of individuals are candidates for The Singita School of Cooking and how do you select students?

Initially we send out flyers to the local communities to let the young people know we are taking on new students. Singita also works alongside KNP social ecologists to advertise the interview date. The interview process has two parts. A team of eight Singita staff members, three chefs, myself, the HR manager, and two others participated in the interview. Four of the eight members of staff are fluent in Shangaan (local language) to be able to translate, if necessary.

The Singita staff paired up, rolled up our sleeves, and began to interview the candidates. Firstly, candidates needed to meet the minimum requirements; the candidates were all asked the same questions. We were looking for people who really wanted to become chefs and expressed a passion for food. In addition, we’re looking for young people who possess personalities that shine.

The second part of the interview takes place after we have selected 20 possible candidates from the applicant selection. The second stage interview takes place in the school’s kitchen, based at Singita’s staff village in the Kruger National Park. The applicants take a literacy and numeracy test and take part in a practical cook off. From here, we select the eight students based on team work, practical skills, and their test results.

The Singita School of Cooking is run by a Singita Chef Skills Trainer, Oriel Mbowane. Practical training is obtained in the Singita staff kitchen with additional experience being gained in the lodge kitchens. As part of their training, the students have a placement in the lodge kitchens, experiencing all the different sections. There is no cost for the students for the training.

Requirements:

Singita School of Cooking is looking for capable and confident people with a real passion in cooking and in a career in the hospitality industry as a chef.

Requirements are as follows for all applicants:

• Have a strong interest in cooking and a career as a chef
• Be between 18 and 29 years of age
• From the  Mhlambo Ndlopfu Forum / Mnisi Trust area
• Have a good pass at matric / grade 12 level
• Have a minimum of a grade 10 mathematics
• Have good communication skills
• Have strong English reading and writing skills
• Dedicated, willing to learn, flexible, hard working, and adventurous

Applicants who are interested in this training and career opportunity should bring a CV, as well as a 250 – 300 words description of their background and reason for wanting to join the School.

Students who are accepted into the program will receive:

• All necessary theoretical and practical training and materials
• Meals during training hours
• Chefs uniforms, as well as necessary tools and equipment
• Daily transport to and from Hluvukani
• A Singita School of Cooking certificate in Professional Cookery
• Accredited level 4NQF4

2. What benefits do students receive from The Singita School of Cooking? Does the community also receive benefits from the operations of the school?

The Singita School of Cooking trains at least eight unemployed young people from the Ehlanzeni area. The area suffers from a lack of skilled workers particularly in the field of professional cookery. The Mhlambo Ndlopfu Forum represents Manyeleti villages, which are part of Ehlanzeni in support of this community project. They also recognize and consider this project to be one of the most important community projects as it provides vocational training, which is very much needed.

Once trained, the students have a much greater opportunity of employment as the communities are situated around the Kruger National Park—with primary employment in hospitality. Eighty-six percent of previous learners are in employment in the field of professional cookery and 42% are directly employed by Singita.

Chef positions and similar positions are considered to be in short supply because it is difficult to find people within the local communities with the right skills required to fulfill the job specification at Singita. The aim of the program is to develop local talent directly from our nearest communities to avoid recruiting further afield. Sixty-eight percent of our current employees are recruited directly from Manyeleti, which is part of the Ehlanzeni area, Mpumalanga.

As a core part of its neighbor outreach program, Singita runs The Singita School of Cooking. The aim of this school is to give talented youths, from the Mhlambo Ndlopfu Forum / Mnisi Trust area, the opportunity to start their careers as a chef. Completion of this 18-month program enables a student to take up entry level positions, as a Commis Chef, in the kitchen of a hotel or restaurant; or to start their own catering businesses.

3. What does a student’s typical year look like at The Singita School of Cooking? Specifically, what do they learn and how can they use their skills in the real world?

The students have a Singita School of Cooking manual created by our Senior Sous Chef at Sweni. The manual is a mix of theory and practical tasks. The students cover different food and product knowledge in each section. The students use their theory-based learning in their cooking.

The students are taught from the beginning about time keeping, presentation, hygiene, and communication skills. The kitchen is English speaking (the students’ primary language is Shangaan) so that students can improve confidence in communicating in English. All departments provide training sessions to the students, for example training on telephonic skills, dietary requirements, front of house staff roles, and the role of an HR manager within a company. After the students have finished training, these new found skills and knowledge assist and prepare students to take part in lodge activities.

The students gain their basic skills from preparing food for the staff. In the afternoons, the students have theory classes.

If the students have passed the expected skills levels after one year, they will have a practical placement in other lodge kitchens.

The students also receive greater variety and more in-depth knowledge and practical skills. (e.g. Fruit knowledge: how to use the fruit, even to the extent of making fruit chutney if the fruit is past it’s best.)

Don’t miss our next blog post, which features interviews with some of the students at The Singita School of Cooking!

Imagine waking up to the tranquil sights, sounds, and aromas of nature in a plush and comfortable bed. How rejuvenating and refreshing would that feel?

With a handful of unusual and one-of-a-kind accommodations to choose from, southern and eastern Africa are perfect for discerning and adventurous travelers to discover a travel experience that is truly unmatched by any other.

Because there is an eclectic mix of these unique hotels to choose from, we decided to create a miniseries, The Unique and Unusual Accommodations of Africa, to spotlight some of the most luxurious and bizarre hotels, lodges, and camps in southern and eastern Africa.

See below for Part I:

Tsala Treetop Lodge: Truly distinct in both design and ambiance, the Tsala Treetop Lodge is an international sensation. Situated above the forest canopies of a legendary forest, Tsala’s luxury suites immerse visitors into the natural beauty of the Western Cape, bringing to life the ancient spirit of Africa. Each suite is designed to incorporate the balance of nature into the interior décor, while touching on traditional African cultures through local art and furnishings. This is seamlessly accomplished through the construction of the suites, which are made from stone, wood, and glass, to further deepen the connection visitors feel with their natural surroundings.

Screengrab above taken from HunterHotels.com.

Screengrab above taken from HunterHotels.com.

For travelers seeking pure romance, this is the lodge to visit. With private infinity pools and extending decks for each luxury suite, guests can enjoy romantic dinners outside above the treetops, or find complete relaxation next to the cascading infinity pool.

One of the best parts about this lodge is the option to enjoy enchanting forest picnics. Combining culinary masterpieces with the peace and delicate balance of nature, Tsala’s forest picnics provide a place and time to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Screengrab above taken from HunterHotels.com.

In addition to design and cuisine, Tsala Treetop Lodge also offers exciting activities for individuals on an African family safari or for those on a South African honeymoon safari. Some activities guests can take part in include scenic flights, zip-lining adventures, quad bike riding, horseback safaris, and monkey and birding excursions, as well as sunset cruises—equipped with sparkling champagne and wines and fresh seafood. Each and every activity brings to life the raw spirit and energy of Africa.

Earth Lodge: As one of Africa’s most intriguing lodges, the Earth Lodge uniquely combines natural textures and materials with modern furnishings and amenities to create a comfortable and lavish experience for all visitors. I assure you, this lodge is unlike any other—particularly in terms of design.

Image above taken from SabiSabi.com.

Image above taken from SabiSabi.com.

Built within a natural slope in the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve of South Africa, the Earth Lodge was built with the utmost attention to detail and a vision to incorporate the serenity and balance of nature into every aspect of the lodge. The creators of this lodge took into account everything from natural light and textures to the strategic placement of the lodge within the earth’s crust. You’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into a fairytale as you travel through this mysterious and enchanting lodge, before finding yourself staring across the sprawling African bush.

Comprised of 13 lavish suites, each with their own distinctly designed furniture, private plunge pool, and opulent en-suite facilities, as well as an outdoor shower and butler service, Earth Lodge takes luxury to a whole new level. All of the wooden sculptures found throughout the lodge are one-of-a-kind, crafted by the celebrated South African artist, Geoffrey Armstrong.

Image above taken from SabiSabi.com.

In addition to skillfully crafted and charming suites, the Earth Lodge also offers exclusive dining experiences. The boma area is one of my favorite elements of this lodge, which is where outdoor dining takes place. Set among the natural surroundings of Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve and encapsulated by large bleached wood, the boma dining experience provides a completely romantic ambiance beneath the African stars.

To get an even deeper insight into the magic of South Africa, visit our YouTube channel for exclusive videos on South Africa.

Imagine bringing your family on the vacation of a lifetime that is not only safe, luxurious, and unique, but worldly, inspirational, rich with culture, and bursting with adventure. A life-altering vacation such as this could only take place in one of the world’s few remaining unspoiled destinations. Africa.

Where the eco-systems are as diverse as the people, Africa has a profound impact on travelers, leaving some with a new outlook on life and a new found appreciation for worldly cultures. Immersing yourself in the varying cultures and terrain across this continent have the indescribable power to enlighten, connect, and inspire. Wouldn’t you love to introduce your family to this rare and unique experience?

Even though you’ll have the opportunity to purchase valuable African keepsakes such as hand-crafted art, pottery, and sculptures, you and your family will return home with more than just tangible souvenirs. You’ll return with a large variety of priceless keepsakes including knowledge, unforgettable memories, and quite possibly, a new outlook on life. Whether your children are in elementary school, middle school, high school, college, or out-of-college, a family vacation to Africa will give the entire family first-hand knowledge of some of the world’s most fascinating geography, nature, culture, history, and anthropology.

Taking the whole family on vacation–especially to an international destination–may seem stressful, but at Kruger National Park, South Africa, all your worries are left behind you. From your first step onto African soil to your last, South Africa has the power to make every family’s vacation one with life-lasting memories of sprawling flood plains, adventurous activities, and sightings of the Big Five, unusual game, and exotic birds.

Kruger National Park is a private reserve and is celebrated for being one of Africa’s best game-viewing destinations. This premier wildlife reserve was the first to be established in southern Africa and boasts some of the best-known and exclusive safari lodges in the world. There are a handful of accommodations in and in the surrounding areas of Kruger National Park that cater to each and every family’s individual preferences and needs, and provide wonderful activities for families. Two of the Park’s most highly-acclaimed lodges for family vacations are the Tintswalo Manor House and Honeyguide Khoka Moya Camp.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge:

Designed specifically to accommodate families, Tintswalo Safari Lodge’s Manor House can hold up to 10 guests and requires occupants to have a minimum of six members in their party. During your stay, you will be provided with a private safari vehicle, expert guide, and tracker. In addition to these included features, Tintswalo’s staff is their to accommodate your every individual preferences–down to the very last detail. Their superior service and staff ensures that stress is completely absent from your vacation.

In the Manor House, you will find three twin or double bedrooms downstairs with an optional child room attached to one of them. Upstairs is the main double bedroom with spectacular views of the African bush.

During the day, enjoy relaxing and socializing by the pool or read a book on the patio or boma or take part in one of Tintswalo’s numerous activities. Whether your looking to spend most of your day on a vehicle safari, a walking safari, enjoying a long and leisurely tea time, or relaxing at the Vital Source Spa, Tintswalo caters to your every desire and is completely flexible to ensure your stay is filled with only the things you want to do. In the evening, dinner is served on the patio or in the open air boma and each meal is prepared with the freshest ingredients and with a contemporary flare.

If you are bringing a younger child with you to Africa, Tintswalo Manor House is the place to stay. With an exceptional Children’s Program that takes children on safaris that are specifically catered to their age group, you can enjoy a variety of adult-oriented safari excursions without the worry of ensuring your child’s safety. Tintswalo even has a children’s menu for the young travelers in your group.

Honeyguide Khoka Moya Camp:

Situated between the Kruger National Park and the Manyeleti Game Reserve, Honeyguide Khoka Moya Camp is a family-friendly accommodation where you and your family can enjoy some of the best game-viewing Africa has to offer. With accommodations for up to 20 individuals, this luxury safari camp has an intimate atmosphere that makes it possible for staff to provide each guest with extremely personal and superior service. Whatever your need or desire, Honeyguide Khoka Moya Camp is dedicated to fulfilling it to the best of their ability.

With exclusive tented-suites that are not only luxuriously decorated but also extremely comfortable and safe, this Camp prides itself on its ability to bring the African bush into its accommodations. Inside each suite there are twin or double beds, a private veranda, double showers, and a separate bathroom.

Activities offered by the Camp include walking and vehicle safaris that take you through the Manyeleti Game Reserve and Kruger National Park. You will be able to see the Big Five as well as a wide spectrum of other game and animals. When you return from an adventurous day in the African bush, you can enjoy a delectable meal in the dining area, which encircles a log fire, or have cocktails at the bar.

If you’re traveling with younger children, you can rest assured that they’re in good hands at the Camp’s private children’s center, which has a DVD player and a large variety of nature and animal films and documentaries, as well as toys and children books. Kids can also enjoy the children’s pool area under supervision or enjoy walking and vehicle safaris with their parents if they are of appropriate age.

Photo from Avondale website

The wine country of South Africa is full of old-world Dutch estates, family-owned vineyards, and charming countryside, but there is one vineyard, in particular, that is appraised for not only its eco-friendly practices, but also for its delectable wines.

Each year, Avondale picks their best wine from the barrel and awards it the Les Perleus label. This label of excellence was given to their Merlot 2006 this year because of its “deep velvety texture,” hints of fruit flavors, and long, subtle tannin finish.

Photo from Avondale website

Below you will find more information about the Les Perleus Merlot 2006:

• Some of the grapes were fermented in open tanks and the other part in closed tanks.

• Part of the fermentation process occurred in French oak barrels to draw out deep flavors of wood.

• The wine is ready to drink now. However, if you would like to wait until the wine has aged the recommended time is 15 years.

Avondale, an exceptional vineyard that began in Paarl, South Africa, features some of the most exquisite wines in the world and since its opening has expanded satellite vineyards to fifteen countries across the globe. But Avondale is famous for more than its splendid wines—they are Bio-LOGIC certified for their entire farm. In a nutshell, Bio-LOGIC certification requires that a farm does not use pesticides (even if they’re organic) or herbicides in their grape growing process. Avondale has taken great pride in this certification and strives to do their part in sustaining the environment.

Learn more about this exceptional vineyard here:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPVV9YbsY-s&hl=en&fs=1&]

Impressionable mediums such as Hollywood and novels have positioned Africa as a continent synonymous with fierce game, adventurous safaris, and stunning wildlife. But Africa embodies much more than its traditional stereotype as a game-viewing safari destination. Although game-drives are the perfect way to observe the Big Five and other large African animals, it’s impossible to immerse yourself in the minute details of the African bush, where vehicles are forbidden.

Teeming with some of the world’s most intriguing flora, peculiar insects, stunning nocturnal creatures, and mysterious wilderness, Africa is abundant with hidden treasures and unspoiled terrain that make walking safaris a must. There are a variety of walking safaris to choose from, depending on your personal preference. Many travelers enjoy the niche-oriented walking safaris such as those that focus specifically on birding, plants, or lions. But one of those most interesting niche-oriented walking safaris is a frogging safari.

It may sound odd, but a frogging safari is a unique way to observe some of Africa’s endangered amphibian species, and is highly adventurous as it does encourage some detective work on your part. One of South Africa’s most reputable places to enjoy a frogging safari is the Dunes Country House in St. Francis Bay, South Africa. Here, extremely knowledgeable safari guide, Warren, who specializes in frogs, educates you on the unique lifestyle, behavior, and habits of frogs and opens your eyes to peculiar frog species that are endemic to the area.

With nearly 100 species of frog found throughout Southern Africa, approximately 47% of which are only found in the South African region, a frogging safari in St. Francis Bay opens your eyes to some of the world’s most rare and mesmerizing amphibians. The decrease in the African frog population can be correlated with indirect human influences such as pollution and deforestation.

As wildlife preservation supporters, Dunes Country House is diligently working to help preserve the fragile South African wilderness and give every last frog species the power to live on. One of their greatest conservation projects is the alien eradication program, which helps preserve the area’s drying wetlands and a specific frog species known as the Sand Toad. Dunes Country House’s alien eradication program works to remove any non-indigenous vegetation from the area and prevent human destruction of the wetlands.

When you partake in an unforgettable frogging safari, you’re getting more than an educational and adventurous experience, you’re contributing to the preservation of the Southern African frogs’ natural habitat. All frogging safari funds go to the alien eradication program, which is helping to expand the wetlands and give life back to the endangered frogs of this fragile region.

On the Dunes Country House frogging safari with Warren, you’ll . . .

• Begin your excursion at sunset and will be equipped with headlamps, nets, and gum boots.
• Take a Land Rover to Dunes Country House’s private nature reserve, Thula Moya, where you will find a variety of frog species.
• Hear the beautiful whistles and songs of the resident male frogs. Each male frog looking for a female mate works hard at their music to be the loudest, because in the end, the loudest frog gets the girl.
• Learn about the frog species in the area and discover what makes these frogs unique creatures. From the soothing sounds to the vibrant colors and hues of these frogs, you’ll discover the purpose of each frog characteristic.
• Need to keep an eye open in search of colorful frogs. Frogs range in color to bright reds, yellows, and greens, to brown hues with intricate detailed skin.
• See a variety of frog species including the painted reed frog, cape sand frog, raucous toad, eastern leopard toad, clicking stream frog, bronze caco, and striped stream frog–to name a few.

When you arrive back at the Dunes Country House, you have the opportunity to purchase a hand-beaded frog statue as a souvenir from local crafters. The proceeds from this purchase will further go to the preservation efforts of the area.

Experience the beauty of Africa on a South African family safari or honeymoon safari vacation. Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you a detailed itinerary that is tailored to your every individual preference. Contact us today at 800.940.9344. We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true.

Would you enjoy a frogging safari in Southern Africa?

Some of the world’s most spectacular art forms were born in Africa’s culturally diverse countries. One such art form, famous for its fascinating ability to turn recyclable materials into works of art, has been spotlighted in Cape Town, South Africa for many years. These unique creations are known as wire art.

The origins of wire art are still slightly ambiguous, but it is believed that these unique art forms originated in South Africa’s rural Northern Kwazulu-Natal. Young herd boys were the first to introduce these works of art. Designing wire creations from any recycled materials they could find, these boys produced some of the most magnificent, functioning appliances—they even built cars! Their inspirational wire creations encouraged other locals to participate in this highly marketable art form. 

Today, one of South Africa’s most highly-acclaimed shopping hubs to purchase these exquisite works of art is none other than Streetwires. This community project comprised of creators of modern African wire and bead craft, is an amazing place to experience Cape Town culture and witness the fusion of traditional African craft skills and First World resources. Streetwires is a Proudly South African project that provides formerly unemployed citizens with training and materials to foster their natural born gifts of creating works of art. When you buy from Streetwires, you are contributing to a sustainable society and economy in Cape Town, because the money goes back into the local community. 

Wire artworks are African inspired sculptures created from wire, beads, tin cans, and other recycled materials. These functioning, hand-crafted pieces are some of the most fascinating art forms recognized in South Africa.

Here are a few things you can purchase while visiting Streetwires in Cape Town, South Africa:

• Beaded Sculptures: Choose from sculptures of warthogs, zebras, meerkats, lions, cheetahs, frogs, elephants, giraffes, or any other animal you can think of.

• Lamps and t-light holders: Illuminate your home with elephant shaped t-light holders, gecko lamps, lanterns, and wild creations that can hold candles or bulbs. 

• Picture frames: Bring South Africa’s cultural spirit and vibrant colors into your home with original, hand-crafted picture frames.

• Wine racks and tableware: Purchase a one-of-a-kind wine rack to hold all of your delicious South African wine and decorate your table with African inspired bowls, baskets, or trivets. 

• Accessories: Add color and life to any outfit with Streetwires’ elegant earrings, cuffs, and hairclips.

Experience the rich art forms and cultural heritage of Cape Town, South Africa while on a South African family safari or honeymoon safari. Bring back local pieces that inspire and reflect Africa’s unique artistic spirit. Let Hills of Africa Travel take you there. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 and let us create a completely personalized itinerary for you and your loved ones. We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .

If you’re looking to sink into the calming surroundings of South Africa while enjoying a luxurious stay at one of Africa’s finest accommodations, Kensington Place is the ideal hotel. Celebrated for its lavishly decorated rooms, exquisite services, ideal location, and deluxe amenities, Kensington Place was voted Winner of Traveller’s Choice 2009 in the Luxury Hotel category. It was also featured in the Tatler Travel Guide as the “coolest bolthole in the Cape.”

Experience the unspoiled surroundings of Kensington Place on a South African family safari, or honeymoon safari. The hotel’s perfect location on Table Mountain offers guests a private and quiet place to retreat after a long day on South African safari tours or a day shopping in / exploring Cape Town. Guests are minutes from the best spots in the Cape, making Kensington Place one of Cape Town’s most highly-acclaimed hotels.

Kensington Place guests enjoy . . .

• Spectacular rooms boasting luxurious African contemporary décor, twin / king size bed, lavish en suite facilities, and stunning views of Table Mountain.

• Delectable lunches in the quaint gardens of this delightful hotel.

• Laying on the sundeck and frequently dipping in the lush plunge pool to cool off.

• A fantastic social setting in the evenings at the hotel’s bar and lounge area. Luxurious outdoor seating allows guests to sip flavorful cocktails under the starry African sky.

• Exciting activities, including a trip to the summit of Table Mountain on a cable car, helicopter flights, horseback riding, a trip to the aquarium, and so much more.

• Delightful day trips to Cape Winelands, Cape Town, neighboring beaches, Robben Island, Cape Point, Kirstenbosch, and a wide spectrum of shopping destinations.

• Extraordinary Cape Town dining. The hotel arranges reservations and transportation for guests to their restaurant of choice each night. Cape Town boasts some of Africa’s finest restaurants, and bars and lounges. After a scrumptious meal at a critically acclaimed restaurant, guests can walk to hot nightlife hubs, where socializing and cocktail drinking continues.

Explore a world where sheer beauty, luxurious accommodations, exciting social scenes, and spectacular adventures awaits you. Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you a detailed and personalized itinerary tailored around your every preference. Whether enjoying a South African family safari or honeymoon safari, we ensure you’ll have the trip of a lifetime. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802.  We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .