Safaris by design
SOUTHERN AFRICA SIGNATURE SAFARI
John & Jolene VANDERZYL
DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
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Option B: USD $5,252 / pps*
*pps=per person sharing; Min. of 2 pax traveling
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Experience a luxury Southern Africa Safari across the five most breath-taking landscapes of spectacular Southern Africa. A once in a lifetime, custom African safari adventure where you will enjoy astonishing wildlife, luxury accommodation and extraordinary experiences.
Experience a water safari through Botswana’s stunning Chobe National Park spotting hippos, leopards, giraffes, crocodiles and more from the comfort of the exquisite Chobe River House Boat. Drink in the phenomenal views from the private viewing deck.
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!
Soak up the dazzling wonders of Cape Town, where you will revel in all the best sights that the city has to offer as well as a full-day wine tasting tour.
A truly astonishing safari adventure, filled with magical experiences that 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 2-6 | South Africa
Waterberg: Hippo Lakes
◽️ DAY 7-8 | Botswana
Chobe Lodge
◽️ DAY 9 | Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
◽️ DAY 10-11 | South Africa
Cape Town & surrounds
◽️ DAY 12-13 | South Africa
Stellenbosch & Fly out
DAY 0 | May 3, 2024
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 | May 4, 2024
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 African Sky Boutique Hotel
AFRICAN SKY HOTEL
Guest House Overview
Dinner & Breakfast (drinks excl.) | Wifi available | No Laundy service
Welcome to South Africa! Johannesburg (JNB / OR Tambo) Airport arrival with meet & greet service.
Your arrival night overnight accommodation: AfricaSky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located only 10 minutes from Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International airport. A short drive will have you arriving at an oasis, rooms beautifully appointed and nestled in a peaceful lush garden. Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast all on-site. True African hospitality and service excellence.
Just look out towards the information desk located in the arrivals hall for your pick-up with your name on it. 10 Minute road transfer to your overnight accommodation.
DINNER, B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-6 | May 5-9, 2024
WATERBERG
Safari days!
📍 Hippo Lakes
WATERBERG REGION
Own arrangements
HIPPO LAKES
OPTION B: DAY 7-8 | May 10-11, 2024
CHOBE NP
Safari Days
📍 Chobe Water Villas
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
The Chobe National Park established in 1968 and is situated in the northern most part of Botswana. Park stretches from the tip of northern Botswana to the fringes of the Okavango Delta. It has a wide range of distinctive landscapes, from the emerald floodplains of the Chobe River to the sweeping grasslands of the Savuti Marsh and skeletal leadwood trees in the Savuti Channel.
With such varied environments and habitats there’s a magnificent array of wildlife. A profusion of palatable grass species attracts a variety of herbivores, including wildebeest, impala, kudu, waterbuck, giraffe, and tsessebe. The puku is found, as is the endemic Chobe bushbuck. Predator sightings are good, with leopard, cheetah, wild dog, and large prides of lion that hunt elephant. From servals to side-striped jackals, the list is endless.
All that said, Chobe 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. In the dry season the Chobe River sees thousands lining the banks and crossing the water. Boat trips at this time provide excellent photograph opportunities.
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 t 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.
The park's picturesque wetlands also attract a wide variety of birdlife, 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.
Safari days!
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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CHOBE WATER VILLAS
Camp Overview
Chobe Water Villas is an exclusive and intimate "boutique" Lodge located at the confluence of the legendary Chobe and the mighty Zambezi Rivers where the borders of four countries meet; Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Situated in the Namibian Kasika Conservancy directly on the banks of the Chobe River, opposite the renowned Chobe National Park with unobstructed views into the Chobe National Park and over the world-renowned Sedudu Island.
The 15 villas are on stilts on the river's bank offering stunning bushveld, river and island views of the wildlife. Each lodge has 85 square meters of private living space; these spacious suites offer an open plan lounge and bedroom.
This Island boasts the greatest density of wildlife of any river system in the world and includes elephant, lions, buffalo, hippo, crocodiles, up to 18 species of antelope and 460 bird species. A paradise 50,000 elephants call home and two mighty African rivers meet.This spectacular location ensures that this exciting view into untamed Africa is available from the lodge and every one of its 16 exclusive water villas.
Accessible by boat only, a 15 minute leisurely safari boat transfer from Botswana's Kasane affords one a unique arrival experience, cruising across the Chobe River amongst some of the rivers residents: hippo, elephant, buffalo, and Crocodile. Upon arrival, one is welcomed by a warm and genuine Namibian smile and a cool, refreshing beverage.
Keen fishing enthusiasts will be challenged by the greatest of all fresh water fighting fish, powerful and energetic Tiger Fish, along with Nembwe and the delicious Three Spot Bream.
ACTIVITIES
- Safari Game Drive
- Chobe River Safari & Sunset Cruise
NOTES:
- WIFI connection in the reception area, in the restaurant, and in the first 3 villas close to reception.
- Laundry services available at an extra cost.
- Safe in the villas and a luggage room by reception.
- Namibia and South Africa: M-plug adaptors. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
FULL BOARD
CHALET
GAME VIEW
OPTION B: DAY 9 | May 12, 2024
VICTORIA FALLS
Explore
📍 Old Drift Lodge
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.
OLD DRIFT LODGE
Lodge Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks.
Lying just 4 miles from the rumble of the mighty Victoria Falls, this extraordinary luxury tented lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River is a bush paradise that exudes an old world charm, admits modern luxuries
Upstream of the iconic Victoria Falls in the Zambezi National Park lies a pristine piece of land on the banks of the Zambezi River. Nestled within this wild paradise is Old Drift Lodge, a place frequented by elephant, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, Lion and many other animals. The untouched natural beauty of the park is sprawled over 56 000 breath taking hectares.
The Lodge speaks to the rich heritage of the area. A ‘drift or ‘ford’, is a shallow place in a river or stream where it is possible to cross safely without using a boat. Around 1898, the lodge location (originally known as Sekute's Drift) was used as a crossing point over the Zambezi River between what was then Southern and Northern Rhodesia (today Zimbabwe and Zambia). The drift was at a point on the river, 3 miles above the Falls, where the river is wide but runs low enough during certain periods for safe crossing.
The Lodge offers luxury accommodation, with each air-conditioned suite decorated with stylish furnishings, fitting of the bygone eras, which blend in seamlessly with the natural environment. The spacious canvas en-suite rooms all have a private lounge, indoor and outdoor showers, plunge pool and an outdoor bath overlooking the Zambezi.The main lodge area will have 360 degree views, north facing onto the Zambezi & south facing onto a water hole.
ACTIVITIES
The activities offered at the lodge emphasize the rich natural environment, focusing on the abundance of wildlife that roam through the Park and swim the Zambezi River. The Zambezi National park can be explored by road, river or on foot, satisfying guests needs to experience every aspect of this natural utopia.Due to its close proximity to Victoria Falls, you have ample opportunity to enjoy a vast array of activities – from the adrenaline fuelled bunji jumping, canyon swinging and white water rafting to the more sedate historical tours, river cruises and much more.
*A warm welcome awaits on arrival at the airport! Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance followed by a 20 mins. road transfer to your accommodation.
This afternoon, get a view from above! Take to the sky for a thrilling 15 minute helicopter flip over the breath-taking Victoria Falls and surrounding area. Tonight , enjoy the perfect start to your visit in Zimbabwe - a sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. The sunset cruise offers a unique way to explore the channels of the river and to get an up-close view of the pristine wilderness and African game along its banks. Canapés & a full bar available (drinks at own cost)
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
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FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
TOURS
DAY 10-11 | May 13-14, 2024
STELLENBOSCH
Explore Stellenbosch!
📍 Oudewerf Hotel
STELLENBOSCH
Area Overview
The beautiful little town of Stellenbosch, roughly an hour from Cape Town, lies surrounded by the Stellenbosch Mountains in one of the most picturesque settings in the Cape. The name ‘Stellenbosch’ is almost synonymous with the wine industry. Not only does it have the oldest wine route in the country, and arguably the most famous, but the town has one of the most modern experimental wineries in the world, and the only viticulturally and oenological department in the country at its university.
The second oldest town in South Africa has fondly been called ‘Eikestad’ or city of oaks and its streets are lined with some of the most beautiful surviving examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture in the Cape. Dorp Street is a national monument and taking the time to walk around this cosy old part of Stellenbosch, with its secluded lanes, water furrows, cosmopolitan restaurants and coffee bistros, with superb views of mountain, vineyards and orchards, is an idyllic morning venture.Surrounded by wine farms, the town is abuzz with hotels, wine shops, cafés, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and museums. It’s quite small, so park your car and wander around on foot.
- ACTIVITIES
Explore the wine lands– you are guaranteed to fall in love!
Stellenbosch, host South Africa’s oldest music school, the famous Stellenbosch Conservatoire – view a collection of galleries and museums housing national and international art collections worth viewing. - For the nature lover there are a number of excellent hikes in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. The full-day Vineyard Hiking Trail, a fairly new 16 milelong trail, starts on the slopes of the Papegaaiberg and winds its way through vineyards, forests, olive groves and coastal renosterveld.
- Nestled between the majestic mountain ranges of the Winelands, the town is also home to the Rupert Museum, modern street art and century old wine farms - the perfect fusion of heritage and contemporary trends.
- Explore the characteristic oak lined streets to experience the works of famous sculptures, neoDutch, Georgian and modern-Victorian architecture and quaint restaurants and shops!
Tour: Winelands
Explore the captivating allure of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyard-covered hills intersect with historic charm, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey of wine tasting at world-renowned estates, indulge in gourmet dining that harmonizes with the local flavors. Stroll through oak-lined streets adorned with Cape Dutch architecture.
Surrounded yourself with a serene and breathtaking landscape, that seamlessly marries the old-world elegance with the vibrancy of South African wine culture.
Visit various wineries in and around the stunning Stellenbosch area. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch on the way. This is the Cape wine lands!
*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
OUDEWERF HOTEL
Hotel Overview
‘Modern’ meets ‘Vintage’! Step past a Georgian-style façade into its inn-house, and beyond, to the vine-covered courtyard and interior of a newly-designed restaurant. An adjoining vintage-styled bar and lounge spills out into a shady central garden and pool deck. Centrally located in the heart of Stellenbosch, heart of South Africa’s wine country and cultural hub. Conveniently within walking distance to local shops, restaurants and many quaint finds!
ACTIVITIES
Cape Wine lands !
B&B
HOTEL
AT LEISURE
DAY 12-13 | May 15-16, 2024
CAPE TOWN
Explore
📍 Azamare Guest House
CAPE TOWN
Area Overview
Cape Town has has it all! Much more than just a stunning backdrop! It is a vibrant, fun and cultural city. Strikingly modern and contemporary, Cape Town is actually the oldest city in South Africa. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a bustling modern marina full of restaurants and shops, but venture deeper into the city to explore Cape Town’s genteel, cobbled walkways and colonial buildings.
Natural Beauty: Prepare to be captivated by Cape Town's awe-inspiring natural beauty. The city is nestled between the iconic Table Mountain, with its mesmerizing flat top, and the stunning Atlantic coastline. Explore the rugged Cape Peninsula, where the crashing waves of the Cape of Good Hope meet towering cliffs. Witness the vibrant floral display of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its rich biodiversity and colorful landscapes.
Wine lands: Cape Town is a gateway to the renowned Cape Wine lands, an idyllic region where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Discover the art of wine making through wine tastings at world-class estates. Savor the flavors of exceptional wines while enjoying breathtaking views of vine-covered hills. Indulge in gourmet cuisine paired with exquisite vintages, creating a sensory experience you won't soon forget.
Rich Culture and History: Cape Town is steeped in a vibrant cultural tapestry, shaped by its diverse heritage. Visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and gain insight into South Africa's struggle for freedom. Stroll through the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood with its brightly painted houses and learn about its Cape Malay history. Immerse yourself in local markets, museums, and galleries, all reflecting the city's rich cultural fabric.
Adventure Awaits: If you seek adventure, Cape Town delivers! Dive into thrilling activities like shark cage diving, where you come face-to-face with these incredible predators. Take to the skies and paraglide over picturesque coastal cliffs, or brave the heights with a hike up Table Mountain. For water enthusiasts, enjoy surfing, kayaking, or simply bask in the sun on the pristine beaches.
Private tour: Cape Point & Peninsula
Cape Point & Cape Peninsula tour! Discover Cape Point, the scenic promontory at the southwestern tip of the continent. Journey past base of the towering Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, along bucolic Hout Bay with its bustling fishing harbor and over the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive. Explore the stunning Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, home to rare bonteboks and chacma baboons.
At Boulders Beach, visit its colony of endangered African penguins; accustomed to humans, they provide endless photo opportunities.
The Cape Peninsula boasts warm sands on Clifton’s secluded beaches and trendy cafés in Camps Bay. Explore the stunning Atlantic Seaboard feasting your eyes on rugged coastlines and other unblemished geographic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles and the impressive slopes of Lion’s head.
Explore the village of Hout Bay wondrously framed by mountains before meandering along Chapman’s Peak, precariously aligned along the edge of the mountain. World famous this 9 km route with 114 curves, makes it one of the most magnificent marine drives in the world.
Simons Town is a must see offering gemstone hunting, jewellery sales and the wobbly penguins of Boulder’s that show-off gloriously. Boulders Beach remains the only place in the world where one can get up close to African Penguins. Penguin viewing is made easier by boardwalks that lead visitors across the beaches. Head to the Cape Point Lighthouse, an important icon of the Cape Peninsula, ascend to this rugged, craggy spot and gaze at the rocky coastline and the ocean tumbling below, and Cape of Good Hope, the most south-western point of Africa
*Please see your safari itinerary for details
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Tour: V&A Waterfront
Visit the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront! Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain, in the heart of Cape Town's working harbour, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has become South Africa's most visited destination. Set against a backdrop of magnificent sea and mountain views. Two Oceans Aquarium, boat trips, Robben island, arts, crafts, curios and more!
*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics. Spend the day at the V&A Waterfront and enjoy lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure.
Tour: City & Cultural
This tour explores the vibrant Cape Town City Bowl and showcases its heritage landmarks. The bustling central business district of Cape Town lies in the shadow of Table Mountain.The city is rich in history and home to a multi-cultural population. This tour will give you just a glimpse of what the city of Cape Town has to offer.
- Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town City Hall and Parliament Buildings
- Iziko South African Museum & Company Gardens
- Bo-Kaap
- Signal Hill
- Lions Hill
- Clifton and Camps Bay
*Weather permitting, take the cable car up Table Mountain to take in an inspiring panorama of the city. Cable car tast track tickets not included, approx. U$ 50 pp and for guest account
*See your safari itinerary for logistics
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AZAMARE
Guest House Overview
B&B
GUEST HOUSE
TOURS
DAY 17 | April 14, 2024
RETURN
ARRIVE BACK HOME
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
PAPERWORK
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
- Please note special requirements when ytravelling with a minor
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- A signed APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari. Click here to print more copies if needed)
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Safari Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari and email back