Imagine dancing to the lively rhythms of Tango music as the sunset casts a mesmerizing shade of orange, yellow, and red onto the vast plains of Africa. To your right, an elephant enjoys a drink at a nearby watering hole and impalas sip gracefully side-by-side from the water’s edge. This may appear to be a fantasy, but I assure you, it’s not.
Bringing to life this exotic fairy tale is Tango-Tensity, a company specializing in Tango inspired trips to Africa and South America. Their newest South African safari trip, Big 5 and Tango, immerses travelers into the African bush, while incorporating Tango workshops into the many adventures of the day.
Leading the Tango workshops is the son of Carlos Copello, internationally acclaimed Argentine Tango master and founder of Escuela Carlos Copello dance academy, Maxi Copello. Renowned for his brilliant choreography and authentic dance skills, Maxi Copello and his partner, Nadia Johnson, seamlessly integrate this timeless dance style into the spirit of the African bush. To be taught and guided by Maxi Copello is a rare and highly-rewarding experience to be had.
When and where does the Big 5 and Tango take place?
The Big 5 and Tango safari trip takes place in South Africa from May 3 – May 9, 2010. Guests will stay at Madikwe Game Reserve’s 5-Star accommodation, Tau Safari Lodge, where they’ll experience everything from an extremely luxurious and comfortable stay, to adventures in the African bush and sensual dancing beneath the stars.
What is on the itinerary?
Filled with adventurous activities, exceptional dance workshops, and relaxation time, the Big 5 and Tango itinerary incorporates everything you need for an unforgettable African safari vacation.
The first day you arrive to South Africa’s OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a Tango-Tensity team member. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day guided city tour of Johannesburg. Afterward, a relaxing and delectable dinner will be served with a special welcome from Tango maestros Maxi Copello and Nadia Johnson from Buenos Aires.
The following day you will be escorted to the Madikwe Game Reserve where, upon arrival, you will be greeted with a lunch followed by an exciting game drive through the surrounding area.
For each of the following days, you will experience a morning game drive, followed by a delicious breakfast, as well as three hours of morning Tango, one and half hours of afternoon Tango, a night drive, and a romantic dinner beneath the stars.
While on your safari tours, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of Africa’s most riveting game including the Big 5 and more than 20 other species of large animals. In addition to the large game, smaller game as well as reptiles, birds, and amphibians are often spotted and provide an eclectic mix of visual pleasures.
When you’re not on your game drive, you’ll be enjoying the fresh Argentine sounds of the Tango. Over the course of your South African safari trip, you’ll learn a variety of techniques from Maxi and Nadia including prolixity, walking, ochos, connection, double-bit, sequences, rhythm, embellishments, lead, and more.
On May 8, the day before your departure home, you’ll check out of Tau Safari Lodge after an early morning game drive and breakfast, at which time, you’ll be escorted back to Johannesburg. During the afternoon, Maxi and Nadia will be available for private lessons.
Do I need experience in the Tango?
Whether you’re new to the Tango or a Tango connoisseur, Big 5 and Tango can be enjoyed by all couples alike. But it is important to note that each day incorporates roughly three hours of Tango dancing into the schedule. So be prepared for some exercise and exciting dance routines.
For more on the Big 5 and Tango, visit Tango-Tensity’s website.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I hate being sedentary on vacation and am always looking for fun and unique way to incorporate exercise into my getaways. I love that I don’t need tango experience to participate, and it doesn’t hurt that tango dancing is incredibly romantic!
And the instructor, Maxi Capello is very cute! That never hurts.