Safaris by design
HUNT & PHOTO SAFARI
BLAKE GROUP
DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
USD $ 5,745 pps* (Hunt safari excluded)
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*pps=per person sharing
One double occupancy
Minimum of 2 pax traveling
WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
South Africa hunt & photo safari combo!
HUNTING
Hunt in the game-rich North-West province & Kalahari of South Africa, home to the Cape Buffalo, the infamous Lion and a long list of top-quality plains game species!
PHOTO SAFARI
Explore the mountains, rivers, and grasslands of South Africa’s extraordinary Welgevonden Private Game Reserve at your leisure. A UNESCO conservation site and the location of your four-night Big-5 Safari
See the astonishing sight of Zimbabwe’s incredible Victoria Falls. Enjoy everything from elephant encounters to white-water rafting, helicopter tours, a visit to a traditional African village, and bungee jumping!
Embark on an enthralling water safari through Botswana’s enchanting Chobe National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot magnificent wildlife such as hippos, leopards, giraffes, and crocodiles. All of this from the comfort of the luxurious Chobe River houseboat, which offers unmatched views from its private viewing deck
A truly astonishing safari adventure, filled with magical experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | South Africa
Johannesburg arrival
◽️ DAY 2-5 | South Africa
North West Province Hunt
◽️ DAY 6-9 | South Africa
Kalahari Hunt
◽️ DAY 10 | South Africa
Johannesburg overnight
◽️ DAY 11-14 | South Africa
Welgevonden G/R
◽️ DAY 15-16 | Zimbabwe
Victoria falls
◽️ DAY 17-18| Botswana
Chobe River
◽️ DAY 19 | Return
Return home
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Travel
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1 | Arrive South Africa
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 Witwater Guest House
WITWATER GUEST HOUSE
Guest House Overview
Bed & Breakfast
Conveniently located 5 miles from Johannesburg International airport, Witwater Guest House & Spa offers accommodation with access to spa facilities, wellness packages and beauty services.
À la carte and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available daily at the guest house. Guests can eat in the on-site traditional restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch, brunch and high tea.
B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-6 | Hunting Days
HUNTING
Plains Game hunt
📍 North-West Camp
NORTH-WEST CAMP
Overview
Cape Buffalo hunting take place in the Malaria free North West province of South Africa, between the small towns of Schweizer-Reneke and Vryburg.Driving time from Johannesburg is approximately 4 hours.
Proud home of Buffalo, Sable, Roan, Tsessebe, Eland as well as 45 other wildlife species. Also rich in birdlife and indigenous flora, making it a hunting, photography and safari paradise.
Hunting days
A typical day of hunting begins by waking up before sunrise and gathering for breakfast and coffee. Following this, the hunting party leaves the camp in vehicles to engage in spotting and stalking for the day. The hunting activity continues until mid-day, at which point everyone returns to the lodge for lunch and a break.
After a brief rest or siesta, the afternoon hunt commences. For those exploring remote areas, packing a lunch is likely. At the end of a successful day of hunting, participants convene at the campfire to share their experiences. A delightful dinner is served once all hunters have returned, and many choose to unwind by the fireplace with post-dinner drinks before retiring for the night in preparation for the next day's hunt.
Accommodation
Luxury accommodation, 5 star catering and epic Africa sunsets! Welcome!
The bushveld with its scattered thorn trees and shrubs will make your African safari dreams come true…bring your family and friends and let's give them a hunt of a lifetime. Whether you choose to lounge by the pool area with a drink in hand after a successful hunting day or sit by the fire at the boma and exchange stories with fellow hunters, is totally up to you. The exclusive luxury safari lodge will serve as an awesome African destination with a homely atmosphere. Two chefs that prepare and serve world class cuisine of your choice. Furthermore, the lodge feature 8 air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a lookout Lapa with boma and a large fire pit, a beautiful swimming pool with sundeck, indoor fireplaces and lounging areas as well as a Gym, Spa and an indoor man-cave with bar and snooker (pool) table. A place where we aim to amaze! Africa awaits you!
FULL BOARD
LODGE
HUNT
DAY 6-9 | Hunting Days
HUNTING
Lion hunt
📍 Kalahari Camp
KALAHARI CAMP
Overview
The Kalahari hunting ranch is located approximately 5 hours drive from Johannesburg International airport or alternatively an hour flight from Lanseria Airport in Johannesburg.
This 47,000 malaria free acres concession is located in the Kalahari Desert, next to the Botswana border.The habitat is Kalahari desert/grasslands and features stunning Camel Thorn Acacia trees. The area has an average rainfall of only 16 inches per annum, and hunting area is completely Malaria free!
Hunting days
A typical day of hunting begins by waking up before sunrise and gathering for breakfast and coffee. Following this, the hunting party leaves the camp in vehicles to engage in spotting and stalking for the day. The hunting activity continues until mid-day, at which point everyone returns to the lodge for lunch and a break.
After a brief rest or siesta, the afternoon hunt commences. For those exploring remote areas, packing a lunch is likely. At the end of a successful day of hunting, participants convene at the campfire to share their experiences. A delightful dinner is served once all hunters have returned, and many choose to unwind by the fireplace with post-dinner drinks before retiring for the night in preparation for the next day's hunt.
Accommodation
Luxury accommodation, 5 star catering and epic Africa sunsets! Welcome!
The bushveld with its scattered thorn trees and shrubs will make your African safari dreams come true…bring your family and friends and let's give them a hunt of a lifetime. Whether you choose to lounge by the pool area with a drink in hand after a successful hunting day or sit by the fire at the boma and exchange stories with fellow hunters, is totally up to you. The exclusive luxury safari lodge will serve as an awesome African destination with a homely atmosphere. Two chefs that prepare and serve world class cuisine of your choice. Furthermore, the lodge feature 8 air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a lookout Lapa with boma and a large fire pit, a beautiful swimming pool with sundeck, indoor fireplaces and lounging areas as well as a Gym, Spa and an indoor man-cave with bar and snooker (pool) table. A place where we aim to amaze! Africa awaits you!
FULL BOARD
LODGE
HUNT
DAY 10 | Return to Johannesburg
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 Witwater Guest House
WITWATER GUEST HOUSE
Guest House Overview
Bed & Breakfast
Conveniently located 5 miles from Johannesburg International airport, Witwater Guest House & Spa offers accommodation with access to spa facilities, wellness packages and beauty services.
À la carte and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available daily at the guest house. Guests can eat in the on-site traditional restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch, brunch and high tea.
B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 17-18 | Chobe River
BIG-5 SAFARI
Land based Safari!
📍 Inzalo Lodge
WELGEVONDEN G/RESERVE
Area Overview
The vast 36,000 hectares of the Welgevonden Game Reserve is a treasure trove of life, boasting a remarkable 65 mammal species, 300 different bird species, and the iconic Big 5. Yet, what sets Welgevonden apart are its unique residents, including the elusive aardwolf, the enigmatic brown hyena, and the graceful cheetahs.
Embark on two daily game drives led by experienced rangers who will unveil the intimate secrets of the abundant flora and fauna, many of which are unique to the Waterberg region. As the sun dips below the horizon, savor sundowner drinks and let the enchanting embrace of the African bush envelop you during evening game safaris. It's here, under the veil of night, that the African bush comes to life, with predators stealthily stalking their prey, a truly magnificent sight to behold.
Safari Activities
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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INZALO LODGE
Inzalo Overview
Full board, excl premium drinks | Wifi available |Laundry available at addl. cost
Experience an intimate and authentic safari adventure at Inzalo Safari Lodge in the heart of Welgevonden Game Reserve. This pristine landscape offers a dynamic mix of mountainous cliffs, serene valleys adorned with majestic baobab, Marula, and fever trees, expansive open grasslands, and crystal-clear streams.
The presence of water in the region nurtures a rich diversity of birdlife and wildlife, providing daily opportunities for nature enthusiasts to embark on guided game drives and immersive nature walks.
Unwind in the vast, open spaces that extend to our viewing deck and bar area. The lodge's décor seamlessly fuses with modern comforts, crafting an inviting ambiance where you can socialize with fellow guests, savor delectable dining experiences, and relish scenic vistas while sipping on crisp, refreshing beverages. When the time comes to retire to your room after captivating stories shared around the outdoor boma, our tent-style suites are thoughtfully equipped to meet all your needs.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 15-16 | Victoria Falls
VICTORIA FALLS
Explore
📍 Victoria Falls Safari Club
VICTORIA FALLS
Area Overview
Victoria Falls is the 7th wonder of the world! Located in Zimbabwe, situated in the heart of Southern Africa and entirely landlocked. 12% of its land is allocated to National Parks and Game Reserves.
Undoubtedly, the country's most iconic attraction is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or the "Smoke That Thunders" because of the spray made by the mass of water dropping 100 meters below in the gorges. Victoria Falls is twice the size of Niagara Falls and stretches across a significantly longer distance. Visitors can get up close to the falls, but be prepared to experience some splashing.
The Victoria Falls, now in it's 150 millionth fantastic year, - its zenith in about May each year. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience—the sight, the sound, the smell—and the humbling feeling that this is indeed nature's supreme masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict reality. And nothing prepares you for your first sight. .
The Victoria Falls present a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe—the largest sheet of falling water in the world and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls, i.e., the spray, mist, and rainbows.
David Livingstone was the first European to see the Victoria Falls in 1855. The Scottish explorer is believed to have been the first European to view the falls, and he named them Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria.
While in Victoria Falls, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful cruise on the Zambezi River for a different perspective of the falls, especially during sunset. You can also opt for a thrilling helicopter ride over the falls. For a unique experience, consider having afternoon tea at the classic Victoria Falls Hotel. Additionally, if you're interested in shopping, Victoria Falls is an excellent place to purchase local souvenirs, artwork, and handcrafted carvings.
VICTORIA FALLS SAFARI CLUB
Located just 4kms from Victoria Falls, and situated within the magnificent grounds of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge resort.
Perched atop a sprawling plateau, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls Safari Club offers panoramic vistas of pristine bushland and breathtaking African sunsets. Located just 4kms from Victoria Falls, and situated within the magnificent grounds of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge resort.Nestled on the border of the renowned Zambezi National Park, guests are welcomed into a private sanctuary within the Club's rooms or suites, seamlessly blending modern luxuries with the rich tapestry of African heritage and the stunning natural landscape.
Privacy takes precedence at the Safari Club, which features its own exclusive club lounge. Here, guests can indulge in breakfasts, afternoon teas with pastries, as well as cocktails and snacks. A secluded viewing deck provides a vantage point over the wildlife-rich corridor where immense herds gather at the Zambezi River for a drink. Situated within the splendid grounds of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Safari Club patrons also enjoy access to the lodge's Buffalo Bar, Boma, and MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurants.
Adventure awaits with activities such as game viewing at the nearby Siduli Hide, guided bushwalks, nature trails, and birdwatching.
FULL BOARD
SAFARI LODGE
TOURS
DAY 17-18 | Chobe River
CHOBE RIVER
Water based safari!
📍 Chobe Princess House Boat
CHOBE RIVER
Area Overview
Chobe National Park includes two incredible wildlife areas: Chobe Riverfront and Savute. The Chobe River is one of Africa’s magical rivers, attracting animal of all sizes. Chobe also offers the highest density of elephants to be found anywhere in Africa, Chobe National Park is the ultimate safari destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Immerse yourself in nature's grandeur and witness the breathtaking spectacle of Chobe River's prolific wildlife, where majestic elephants roam freely, diverse bird species take flight, and unforgettable safari adventures await, making it a must-visit destination for every intrepid traveler.
The Chobe River forms its northern boundary and in the extreme south-west it borders the Moremi Game Reserve. The riverfront is a markable wildlife area due to the permanent water source of the Chobe River. Most wildlife activity occurs along the banks of the river - especially during the drier winter months (May – October) when animals congregate at the river to quench their thirst. The spectacle of all the animals coming to drink and frolic at the water's edge is a sight to behold! Birding enthusiasts will find the riverfront a fantastic destination at this time with more than 400 species of birds, including migratory species and numerous birds of prey.
All that said, Chobe National Park is most famous for its elephant and buffalo populations, both of which can herd in mammoth proportions. With an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 elephants, these gentle giants constantly surround you.
The park's picturesque wetlands also attract a wide variety of bird life, with the chance to see numerous species among the 460 that call this place home or pass through, including raptors, vultures, and waterfowl.Head out on a sunrise game drive to observe the animals at the beginning of their day, when they are most active. You might even spot a leopard returning from a hunt.When you return to your luxury accommodations at the lodge in the evening, take pleasure in the comforts it offers, gather for dinner, and share stories about your day.
CHOBE PRINCESS
House Boat Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks | Wifi (limited) available on the boat | No laundry services available
The fascinating game-rich Savuti area is located within the Chobe National Park. The Lodge is perfectly situated on the outskirts of the Ghoha Hills, overlooking the Savuti Plains. The elevated position ensures spectacular unparalleled 180-degree views and was designed and built to blend into the natural surrounding environment.
Set in Botswana's "predator capital," the lodge allows guests to sit in comfort and watch animals come to the camp's waterhole to drink - photographers may want to visit the hide for a better view!
During the summer green season, Savuti is known for its large elephant population, especially during the dry season, and it serves as an important migratory corridor for thousands of zebras. It's no surprise that Savuti has a reputation for high-impact drama: all the big cats are present, as are large packs of spotted hyena, and wild dogs are frequently seen.
Look out for herds of elephants, buffalo, impala, kudu, giraffe, zebra, roan antelope, hyena, lions and leopard are some of the possible sightings around in the area. Not to mention the numerous different bird species!
ACTIVITIES
Bird watching
Guide walks
Game drives
Star gazing
Transfer to the Houseboat details
Morning pick up followed by 1.5hr road transfer to Kasane Immigration point in Botswana - Arrive at Kasane Immigration Point between 1pm-2pm foe meet & greet by houseboat representative. Next, transfers by small tender boat from Kasane immigration via Impalila Island immigration or customs clearance. The boat transfer is about 20 minutes. Please take note of Passpoert requitement & of empty Visa page requirement as well as unabridges birth certificate requirements for minors
FULL BOARD
HOUSE BOAT
GAME VIEW
DAY 19 | Return
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
TRAVEL INFO
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED