Jetsettersblog

Leading independent holiday company, Wildlife Worldwide, has introduced a range of new small group trips for 2010/11, three photography tours (to be led by award-winning wildlife photographer Nick Garbutt) and five volunteer projects in Europe and Africa.

Wildlife Worldwide’s increasingly popular Festivals of Wildlife – the 2010 event takes place in the Pantanal in Brazil and 2011 in Mexico – are also highlighted and new destinations include China, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Slovakia and Portugal. The Brazil trip will be accompanied by a number of well known wildlife experts including Mark Carwardine, co-presenter of the recent ‘Last chance to see’ BBC TV series with Stephen Fry.

Comments Chris Breen, Managing Director of Wildlife Worldwide: “We have broadened our options for 2010; mastering wildlife photographic techniques empowers people to take home fantastic memories from their holiday whilst our volunteer holidays enable people to play an active part in conservation.

“So whether you prefer to learn a new skill, get stuck in to help out, or simply enjoy spectacular wildlife in its natural habitat, Wildlife Worldwide will have the holiday, to suit you.”

Here is a brief summary of highlights from the new Wildlife Worldwide 2010/2011 brochure.

New – Small Group Tours

A new series of tours which provide people with the opportunity to join a small group of like-minded enthusiasts to some of the world’s most prolific wildlife destinations, to discover the natural world.

There is a choice of 19 tours to choose from in Africa, Americas, Asia and Europe including Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia, India, Finland, Guyana, Costa Rica and Brazil.

New – Photographic Tours

Wildlife Worldwide has, over the years, forged relationships with many first class wildlife photographers used in the company’s award-winning brochures. There are three new trips to Kenya, Zambia and Borneo, all of which will be led by Nick Garbutt. Lead in price is £2799 pp for the 6-night Kenya trip.

New destination – China

A unique opportunity to track pandas, the highest density of which live at high altitude in Shaanxi province in north east China. The trips provide a chance to learn about panda protection first hand amid stunning scenery. All trips can be tailor made with prices from £2199 pp for the 6-night Panda Highlights itinerary.

New destination – Mozambique

For years Mozambique was ravaged by civil war but it is now able to claim its right as the ultimate beach and bush destination in southern Africa.

Parks are being restored to their former glory with the re-introduction of species including elephants, wildebeest and buffalo. Accommodation is in Gorongosa National Park, in an area renowned for its lion population. Trips are tailor-made with prices on request.

New destination – Ethiopia

Not for the first time wildlife enthusiast, Ethiopia is a mythical land home to over 800 species of birds and 80 species of large mammals, the most notable of which are the Gelada Baboon, Walia ibex and the highly endangered Ethiopian wolf.

Accommodation includes the Simian Lodge in the Simian Mountains which at 3260m is the highest lodge in Africa. Trips from £2399 for the 7-night Highlights of Ethiopia itinerary.

New destination – Slovakia

Slovakia is one of Europe’s lesser-known wildlife destinations. We team up with rangers in the Western Tatras Mountains to track and monitor brown bears in areas that the public are usually forbidden to enter. The project is run in conjunction with the High Tatras National Park Authority and the trips cost from £1569 pp. A donation of €180 from each booking goes towards the project.

New destination – Portugal

Portugal’s climate and topography make it one of Europe’s premier birdwatching destinations. This itinerary combines Estrela Mountain, Portugal’s highest peak, with the Tagus International River Natural Park to observe mammals and birds with accommodation in extremely comfortable accommodation. The itinerary costs from £849 pp.

All prices quoted include flights, accommodation, transportation, park fees, expert guides/tuition, some meals and accommodation (see itineraries for detail).

For further information call 0845 130 6982 or visit www.wildlifeworldwide.com

Wildlife Worldwide is committed to preserve the natural environment and minimise and negative impact on local cultures through education, conservation, sustainable development and socially responsible practices. Donations are made direct to a variety of charities and environmental causes through Wildlife Worldwide’s holidays.

A Unique Diving Holiday With African & Indian Explorations

MANTA RAYS IN MOZAMBIQUE’
A DIVING HOLIDAY AT THE NEW NUARRO LUXURY ECO LODGE
WITH AFRICAN & INDIAN EXPLORATIONS

7 nights from £2,399 per person, including flights and accommodation on a full board basis

A recent BBC documentary series, Natural World, showed Biologist Dr Andrea Marshall offering a glimpse into the secret life of manta rays off the coast of Tofo in Mozambique.

Fishermen have recently reported seeing these magnificent creatures in the Memba Bay and specialist Tour Operator African & Indian Explorations are delighted to offer the chance to find them with a diving holiday at the newly opening Nuarro Luxury Eco Lodge in Northern Mozambique.

A new solar and wind powered eco-lodge on the Biaxo do Pinda Peninsula, built using local materials and constructed by the local community, who have co-ownership, Nuarro consists of a luxury beach lodge with centralised marine activity facilities facing the pristine Memba Bay. 12 luxury beachfront chalets accommodate a maximum of 44 guests and each has indoor and outdoor showers, large wooden verandah and sun-deck close to the water, lounge area and magnificent bay views to the North and bush views and Baobab forest to the south.

A beach bar, located next to the Marine Activity Centre offers the perfect chill out space after diving or even for whale watching (from June to September)

The direct access to the sea, the closeness of the continental shelf and undiscovered sites make Nuarro a perfect diving location and thanks to the owners’ passion for diving, the Marine Activity Centre is a fully equipped PADI Centre to cater for all levels of recreational divers or wannabes.

The proximity to the continental shelf allows for extraordinary shore dives and boat dives within Memba Bay.

Along the stunning Baixo do Pinda walls are the more challenging dives which are reached by boat.

The bottom topography in the Nanatha Bay is very dramatic, with sections of vertical drop-offs, swim throughs, shallow caves and colourful pinnacles.

For the learner or diver looking for a more mellow experience the shallow areas (10 to 15 metres) of Nuarro home-reef are full of life.

Beyond diving, the Marine Activity Centre offers an extensive array of activities on or in the water, including snorkeling, whale and dolphin watching, dhow sailing trips, sea kayaking and fly fishing.

Specialist Tour Operator African & Indian Explorations are dedicated to the preservation of Africa’s diverse wildlife through sustainable tourism and arrange off the beaten track experiences and once in a lifetime holidays.

For Bookings and Information Contact African & Indian Explorations 01993 822 443 or visit www.africanexplorations.com

African Travel Inc.
CONTACT: Heidi Podjavorsek
TEL: (800) 421-8907 x 115
E-MAIL: heidip@africantravelinc.com
WEB: www.africantravelinc.com

African Travel Inc., a company that specializes in super-luxe journeys throughout the African continent, to islands in the Indian Ocean, and to Dubai, recently announced an exciting lineup of itineraries for the 2010 season.

African Travel Inc. caters to travelers who seek highly personalized and customized encounters with African wildlife and culture, and who require product exclusivity, diversification, and extraordinary personal services.

Although these are just a few of African Travel Inc.’s diverse offerings, the following provides a sneak preview of some exciting 2010 itineraries.

The Ultimate Safari

An unprecedented safari experience awaits travelers on this journey that combines culture, natural attractions, and superb Big Five game viewing.

A private car and guide transform ordinary sightseeing into a comfortable and personalized adventure and accommodations have been carefully chosen to reflect the best that Africa has to offer.

Highlights include accommodations in distinctive lodges and camps including some of Conde Nast’s “Gold List” winners, gourmet South African food and wine, dinner with a local Capetonian family, extraordinary game viewing in Kruger National Park and Botswana, an elephant back excursion at Elephant Whispers, and much more. 18 days starting at $10,795 per person, land cost.

Southern Jewels

With a combination of vast pristine wilderness and a small population, Namibia is the definitive land of discovery and soul-searching.

Marvel at the world’s tallest sand dunes and one of the oldest forms of art before becoming entranced in the distinctive safari experience in Etosha, Namibia’s largest animal refuge, before finishing up in cosmopolitan Cape Town. Other highlights include exploring Fish River Canyon, second only in size to the Grand Canyon, climbing the world’s tallest sand dunes at Sossusvlei, viewing some of the fascinating geological features in Damaraland and rock engravings by some of Namibia’s oldest inhabitants, the Bushmen, wildlife excursions in and around Etosha National Park, and more. 13 Days starting at $6,995, land cost.

Nile Splendors

From the moment of arrival in Cairo, travelers are immersed in the sights and sounds of a thriving modern culture living side by side with remnants of the ancient past.

From the legendary pyramids at Giza to the immense temple complex at Karnak, the sheer magnitude of these structures dwarfs the imagination, and to bear witness to the accomplishments is truly a humbling experience.

Highlights of this journey include walking in the footsteps of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, exploring the temples along the Nile from the comfort of a luxury cruise ship, private tours led by Egyptologist guides, recreating the past while donning a galabeya for a traditional dinner aboard the Nile cruise, gazing at the golden mask of Tut, and much more. 12 days starting at $2195, land cost.

African Travel Inc. caters to adventurers and luxury travelers of all ages — singles, couples, families, small groups of friends, inter-generational, and special interest groups. Their travel experts help travelers plan family travel, honeymoons, golfing tours, spa trips, wine and food tours, as well as cultural extensions and special interest safaris.

To learn more about African Travel Inc. or to order a brochure, visit the website at www.africantravelinc.com  or contact Heidi Podjavorsek at (800) 421-8907 x 115.

Tour operator African & Indian Explorations specialises in ‘off the beaten track’ experiences, handcrafted safaris and once in a lifetime holidays and is delighted to offer the following new hotels, lodges and experiences in Africa:

• Mozambique: Coral Lodge 15.41 – opening November 2009

Coral Lodge 15.41, 15 degrees south latitude and 41 degrees east longtitude, is a unique modern barefoot luxury lodge at a prime beach location near the Unesco World Heritage city, Ilha the Mozambique. The area around the resort is called La Varanda, a privately owned nature reserve with dunes, beaches and mangroves. The resort’s design, by Dutch designer Edward van Vliet, incorporates the colors of the local environment using wood and brightly-colored textures.

The 10 villa’s have been built on top of the dunes, allowing you to get the full benefit of the incredible views and the constant breeze from the Indian Ocean. Each bedroom has been furnished with the award-winning Evening Breeze bed, allowing for full climate control and providing a superb sleeping experience.

African & Indian Explorations offer a stay at Coral Lodge from $295 pp per night. Price includes accommodation on a Full Board basis. Excludes International flights.

For bookings and information visit www.africanexplorations.com  or call 01993 822 443

• Kenya: Walking Safaris with Steve Carey –

The new walking safaris in north-west Laikipia use a light-weight but comfortable mobile camp which is moved each day.

These safaris are led by Steve Carey, one of Africa’s most experienced walking guides, and take guests through the untouched wilderness that makes Laikipia so unique.

Dramatic landscapes coupled with excellent game make for some unforgettable days and exciting encounters. Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, buffalo, wild dog, zebra, warthog, hippo and many different antelope species are all common sightings as well as some unusual species such as Grevy’s zebra.

The camp is lightweight but comfortable – hot showers, long drop loos, cold drinks, freshly cooked meals around the campfire.

Tents are custom made gauze tents (with comfortable bedrolls and fresh linen) allowing guests to lie under the stars at night listening to the nocturnal sounds of the bush.

Plenty of action is included, as well as walking, water-fall jumping, rock-climbing, night-drives, swimming in the river, fishing for dinner…

African & Indian Explorations offer walking safaris with Steve Carey from £350 per adult per night and £160 per child per night. Price includes accommodation on a Full Board basis and all activities. Excludes International and internal flights. Minimum stay 3 nights.

For bookings and information visit www.africanexplorations.com  or call 01993 822 443

• Tanzania: Hunt With Hadzabe – exclusive use of 250,000 acres of land, the first time this territory has been opened – from December 2009

Walk with warriors of the Masai, hunt with Hadzabe Bushmen and learn from their long-established wildlife experience in the bush.

Walking with Alex Hunter, the most knowledgeable guide in the region, this is a genuine experience combining a 4 day walking safari with 5 nights in Serian’s Serengeti Maswa.

With an exclusive use conservation area of 250,000 acres and access to over 1,500,000 more; this is a classic walking area.

To the south is Lake Eyasi home of the Hadzabe bushman, cousins of the Kalahari bushmen with centuries of bush craft at their fingers.

A significant area is only accessible by foot and this is how safaris are conducted here. This is a phenomenal game area and seasonal host to two million wildebeest.

African & Indian Explorations offer the 8 night Hunt With Hadzabe itinerary from $7,125 per person.

Price includes accommodation on a full board basis, internal flights and transfers, all national park fees, game drives and excursions. Excludes international flights.

For bookings and information visit www.africanexplorations.com  or call 01993 822 443

• Kenya: Rhino River Camp – opened October 2009

Situated in 80 acres of privately owned wilderness, Rhino River Camp is a luxury retreat set in the most divere and wildly scenic park in Kenya, located in the eastern foothills of the Kenyan Highlands.

This retreat in real Born Free country offers the chance to connect with a wild nature, to delight the senses and to relax deeply in expansive, unspoilt bush, savannah and forest.

Whether its watching the classic African wildlife, indulging in a therapeutic massage, going on a bush hike or simply soaking up the savannah sun with a drink in the evening, Rhino River Camp offers endless opportunities for adventure and the perfect space for relaxation.

A collection of just eight luxury cottages made out of canvas and local hardwood are set amongst trees of the pristine forest bordering the Kindani River.

African & Indian Explorations offer a stay at Rhino River Camp from $450 pp per night. Price includes accommodation on a Full Board basis. Excludes International flights.

For bookings and information visit www.africanexplorations.com  or call 01993 822 443

Opening December 2009, Coral Lodge 15.41 is a unique barefoot beach retreat situated on a peninsula within the wild and rugged untouched Varanda nature reserve in Northern Mozambique.

La Varanda, the area surrounding the lodge, is a privately owned nature reserve full of untouched beaches, dunes and mangroves.

It lies only a short distance from the historical UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island), the former capital of the country. Since the end of the civil war in 1992, tourism has fast become one of the country’s key resources but the area around Coral Lodge 15.41 is still largely untouched and the rugged unspoiled terrain and friendliness of the locals are a true testament to this.

This unique boutique beach retreat, comprising of only ten villas, has been designed by the renowned Dutch designer Edward Van Vliet who has tastefully combined the latest in luxury and comfort with the authentic feel of Mozambican style and pureness.

He has skillfully incorporated the colours of the surroundings by using a mix of wood and textures to ensure the lodge sympathetically blends in with its surroundings.

To further enhance the area’s natural setting the villas have been built on top of the dunes to give incredible sea views and a continuous breeze from the cerulean ocean.

For complete privacy and relaxation the minimalist villas include various sitting areas, a spacious bedroom, separate bathroom with huge bath and shower and large veranda with comfy chairs and daybed for lazy afternoons.

Each villa boasts its own outdoor shower, perfect after a cooling dip in the sea.

Coral Lodge 15.41 is also the first hotel in the world to have the award-winning Evening Breeze canopy beds in each bedroom.

A revolution in eco technology, they negate the need for energy-guzzling air-conditioners yet still allow full climate control with a fully integrated cooling system. Combine this with hardness-adjustable mattresses and Egyptian cotton bed linen and guests are assured a luxurious sleeping experience on warm balmy evenings.

Cuisine is a highlight at Coral Lodge 15.41 with outdoor and indoor dining taking place at ‘The Reef’, an open wooden thatched structure peacefully situated at the tip of the peninsula allowing guests to combine stunning sunsets with enticing Mozambican flavours. Using only local ingredients with a key focus on fresh fish and shellfish, the experienced chefs prepare everything daily.

The delicious Portuguese style pastries will delight at breakfast and the gastronomical skills displayed through the variation of the daily dinner menu will no doubt impress.

Every dish is infused with the original flavours of Mozambique mixed with Portuguese and Middle Eastern influences and is always complemented by a variety of first class wines from South Africa and Portugal.

For those not only passionate about the consumption but also the creation of the dishes there is the opportunity for guests to join the head chef on her daily visit to the market and then return to the lodge to learn how to cook popular Mozambican dishes.

A shared infinity pool is ideally positioned where the laguna and ocean meet. After a morning swim guests can watch the tide feeding the mangroves and listen to the birds waking the other wildlife.

In the afternoon, they can dive in to cool down from the various activities on offer or simply relax by the pool with a bestseller and enjoy a refreshing drink and delicious traditional snack. A private dinner can also be arranged by the infinity pool, ideal for a romantic celebration or proposal under the stars.

Due to its unique location the choice of activities at Coral Lodge 15.41 are diverse and endless… Step onboard the lodge’s traditional dhow and learn to sail. Alternatively let the experts take you to the best snorkeling and world class diving spots followed by a visit to an uninhabited island to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.

During high tide grab one of the canoes and explore the mangroves where you can see native birds, mangrove crabs and other indigenous animals.

Enthusiasts can indulge in a fishing dhow excursion before enjoying their fresh catch prepared for dinner that evening. During August and September whales are spotted from the beach as they migrate passed Coral Lodge 15.41 and with the available boat excursions guests are brought up close and personal with these fascinating sea mammals.

The lodge’s position lends itself perfectly for the cultural exploration of Ilha de Moçambique, the former capital of Mozambique built by the Portuguese.

From the lodge guests look out onto San Sebastião Fort (1558 AD) at the north point of the island.

This fort and many other colonial buildings are remnants of a bygone era that still preserve history. Guests can explore this fascinating city at their own pace or let a local guide tell them about its controversial history.

Coral Lodge 15.41 is the perfect hideaway to enjoy everything this untouched area of Mozambique has to offer. Villa’s start at $295 per person per night including all meals, house wines, beer and soft drinks, all non-motorized activities (fishing, sunset dhow cruise, windsurfing, snorkeling equipment and canoeing).

Denver-based Reefs to Rockies, specializing in conservation tourism to biodiversity hotspots, launched a Mozambique by Land and by Sea program, an 11-day journey that highlights beach and bush in Mozambique. According to Sheridan Samano, co-owner of Reefs to Rockies, “Conservation has become a high priority in Mozambique after the civil war ended in 1992.

The rehabilitation of Gorongosa National Park represents one of the greatest conservation opportunities in the world today, and the recent discovery of Mount Mabu’s ‘lost rainforest’ adds to Mozambique’s list of wildlife riches.”

The trip begins in Tofo, Mozambique which is home to the best diving and snorkeling in Africa.

The journey then continues on to Gorongosa National Park to partake in a visionary restoration project effectively working to re-establish the park to its former glory as a vibrant wildlife reserve. It culminates on the Indian Ocean in an area called Veranda about half-way up the long Mozambique coast.

Ilha de Mozambique, the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in culture and history, is only a short boat ride away.

For more information, call 303-860-6045,

e-mail Sheridan@ReefstoRockies.com

or visit www.ReefstoRockies.com

Peregrine Adventures has launched its 2010-2011 Africa programme, with a series of short trips that can be linked together to form a ‘made-to-measure’ itinerary that goes beyond the game parks to experience the energy and diversity of the world’s oldest inhabited continent.

Working with local community groups, fair-trade local operators and venturing beyond the usual touring routes, the range of adventures combines visits to some of Africa’s best game parks; high quality accommodation and amenities with insights – through the eyes of local leaders – to the history and cultures of the continent.

The eight-day Mozambique Explorer adventure begins with two days in the Parque National do Limpopo which, together with Kruger National Park, forms one of the world’s largest wilderness conservation areas, totalling 3.3 million hectares.

The base for guided walks and game drives is Machampane Wilderness Camp, with its luxury tents overlooking the river.

It’s a drive through lush hills to the sleepy village of Chidenguele, where the restaurants on the lakeshore prepare some of Mozambique’s freshest seafood.

Dhows have plied their trade from Inhambane since the 11th century, but today the rustic coastal town is emerging as a world-class diving destination – one of a few places on the planet where it’s possible to swim with whale sharks and manta rays.

Here, the lodge accommodation is a series of over-water chalets, perfectly positioned to view the resident flocks of flamingos and the spectacular African sunsets.

The final stop is the vibrant capital of Maputo – regaining its reputation as the night-life capital of Southern Africa.

The Mozambique Explorer departs from Maputo monthly between May and November and costs $4350 per person, twin share. It has been designed to easily combine with other Peregrine trips through Botswana, Zambia and South Africa.

The 12-day South African Footprints adventure begins with three days at the private Timbavati Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park, where walks and game drives offer a good chance of spotting the Big Five. Accommodation is in comfortable chalets at the fair trade-certified Umlani Camp. A visit to Blyde River Canyon includes time in a nearby Shangaan tribal village for a breathtaking dance display.

The tour continues to Swaziland and the Mkhaya Game Reserve – a local success story in animal protection through breeding programs.

Contrasting the natural attractions, the tour visits the ‘Battlefields’ – the sites of historic battles between the Boers, British and Zulus that shaped modern-day South Africa. The dramatic Drakensberg Mountains are the setting for two days of optional hiking, horse-riding and fishing before the trip ends in Durban.

The South African Footprints adventure has monthly departures from Johannesburg, year-round, costing $4375 per person, twin share, and can be combined with the nine-day Classic Garden Route tour to travel the length of the South Africa.

The cost of all Peregrine trips includes carbon off-setting the land and domestic air portion of the trip. For further information call your travel agent or Peregrine Travel Centre on 1300 854 500. Download a .pdf of the new Africa brochure or watch a video of Peregrine’s African adventures at www.peregrineadventures.com

Tour Operator Thomson Tailormade (www.thomsontailormade.com  0871 664 0273) has launched the Africa brochure, offering an extensive selection of quality hotels and unique experiences tailored to suit every need. Witness the annual migration in Kenya, climb Table Mountain in South Africa or hear the thunder of the mighty Victoria Falls in Zambia – Africa is so diverse that every visit will peel away a new layer to reveal something new and enticing.

Thomson Tailormade specialises in flexible durations and an extensive range of tours and twin or multi-centre options. With Thomson Tailormade’s Worldwide Value you can get more for your money and save further through a range of special offers including free nights and room upgrades.

The Africa brochure features a number of suggested itineraries for fantastic holidays – but the team of dedicated travel consultants can tailor-make virtually any holiday request.

KENYA:

The home of safari! Famed for its large herds and game rich national parks, intriguing masai culture and a warm Indian Ocean coastline offering outstanding marine-life and luxury resorts.

Kenya will always be the African safari dream. Each year the thousands of wildebeest and zebra migrate as the seasons change and they search for greener pastures.

The migration is the greatest wildlife show on earth!

As with many natural events, dates are unpredictable but the migration usually begins in the Serengeti in mid-march, moving through the northern Serengeti plains between May to July when the wildebeest congregate and prepare to cross the famous Grumeti River.

The wildebeest arrive in the Masai Mara between August and September and stay until the end of October when the rains return to the Serengeti.

Kenya boasts an idyllic coastline with 500km of tropical beaches fringed by turquoise waters sheltered by spectacular coral reefs.

Visit Watamu on the northern coast to see rare Green-Backed Turtles laying eggs in their natural breeding ground, or the southern coast where protective reefs have created beautiful beaches with calm and inviting waters where offshore reefs flourish.

Examples include:

• The Kenya Classic Safari over 8 days costs from £1,679 per person and includes 1 night in Nairobi, 2 nights in the Masai Mara for the ‘Big Five’ safari and the opportunity to see the wildebeest migration, 1 night at Lake Nakuru to see the flamingos and rhino and 2 nights for vast numbers of elephant and views over Mount Kilimanjaro as well as international airfares. This exciting safari visits some of Kenya’s most loved parks, taking in the open plains of the Masai Mara, the shimmery pink waters of Lake Nakuru and the swamps of Amboseli.

It also provides the perfect opportunity to spot Africa’s Big Five and more amongst beautiful and diverse scenery including magnificent views of Mount Kiilmanjaro.

• Combine a romantic safari and beach holiday in Kenya over 17 days costs from £4,499 pp including international and internal airfares, or if it is a first time safari and beach holiday you are looking for Thomson Tailormade offers 14 days from £1899 pp including international and internal airfares.

TANZANIA & ZANZIBAR:

With a backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro and a foreground including Big Five game and herds of wildlife, Tanzania is truly spectacular. Combine this with coral reefs and a fascinating history of Zanzibar and you have created an ultimate African journey.

The very word ‘Zanzibar’ brings to mind intrigue, adventures on the high seas and tales of pirates and traders. Today the ‘Spice Island’ retains all of its romance and mystery and combines it with a collection of boutique accommodation that makes it a perfect place to unwind and relax.
Examples include:

• The 4 day Selous Fly-in Safari costs from £1,209 and includes 3 night’s accommodation and international airfares. The Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania is one of the largest reserves in the world boasting over 54,000 square kilometres and three quarters of a million wild animals including hippo, crocodile, elephant, buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, giraffe, waterbuck, baboon, leopards, lion, wild dog, eland, sable and roan.

Game drives are open 4 x 4 vehicles, by boat, or, unlike most other national parks and reserves, on foot.

• Thomson Tailormade offers 1 night at the 4 star plus Zanzibar Serena Inn hotel in Zanzibar from £85 per person. The Zanzibar Serena Inn is a converted 18th Century house situated on Stone Town’s magnificent ocean front.

Located in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel has been restored into a unique property echoing the grandeur of days past with intricately carved doors and furniture coupled with colourful mosaic flooring.

The most spectacular of excursions is to the Serena owned Mangapwani where guests can experience dazzling white secluded beaches, spice gardens, private water sports and the most sumptuous dining in simple elegance.

• Thomson Tailormade offers 17 days in Tanzania and Zanzibar from £3,299 pp including international and internal airfares.

SOUTH AFRICA:

Dazzlingly diverse, South Africa offers spectacular natural landscapes, bustling modern cities, incredible wildlife, plenty of sunshine and superb food and wine.

South Africa is a world within one country. Awe-inspiring landscapes, cosmopolitan cities, beautiful vineyards and amazing wildlife – the Rainbow Nation offers something for everyone, where the people and culture are as diverse as the landscape. Africa’s southern most country has long been the inspiration of travellers the world over promising your return time and time again…

Cape Town & Surrounds: Visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were
incarcerated, you will be shown around the prison by an ex-inmate to learn about the island’s turbulent history.

Take a day to drive down to Cape Point, one the world’s greatest landmarks where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet and enroute visit the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach, home to a colony of penguins. Relax in the fashionable Cape Town suburb of Camps Bay, this area offers urban beach life at its best offering stylish cafes, bistros, clubs and restaurants, a great combination with a stay in the city.

The Garden Route: The Garden Route is one of the world’s best self-drives running through some of South Africa’s most stunning landscapes. The drive between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth follows the foot of the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains, each curve revealing another natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Pristine white beaches border extensive lagoons where stunning landscapes, fascinating wildlife and colourful cultures await, all blended effortlessly to create a truly diverse South African getaway.

Kruger National Park: Kruger National Park is synonymous with safari, offering a world class game reserve experience. One of the biggest, oldest and most famous game reserves in the world, Kruger stretches almost 350km. Home to the greatest variety of wildlife in any South African park, you have a chance of spotting lion, leopard, elephant, cape buffalo and black rhino (the Big Five) as well as cheetah, giraffe, hippo and many species of antelope and smaller animals. Wildlife spotting will always be down to luck but you’re likely to be luckier in Kruger than anywhere else.

Examples include:

• Thomson Tailormade offers a 12 day ‘World In One Country’ tour from £2,279 per person. The price includes 1 night in Johannesburg, 3 nights in Mpumalanga, visits to the Kruger National Park to seek out the Big Five, 1 night in Swaziland for a Swazi cultural experience, 1 night in St. Lucia, 1 night in Durban, 2 nights in Knysna and the Featherbed Nature Reserve, 1 night in Outshoorn to enjoy an ostrich farm experience and discover the Cango Caves and international airfares.

This comprehensive tour reflects the true spirit of this vibrant country. Gain an insight into its history and culture and experience South Africa’s superb wildlife and stunning scenery.

• Thomson Tailormade offers 1 night at the 4 star Four Rosmead hotel in Cape Town from £64 per person. An exclusive boutique hotel situated on the slopes of Table Mountain, overlooking Cape Town’s City Bowl and close to the trendy restaurants and shops of Kloof street. Modern and stylish in design, yet with a distinctly African feel, the result is a chic guesthouse enhanced by original South African artwork throughout. With just eight rooms, all individually furnished, you are assured of attentive service after a hard days sightseeing.

• Combine boutique Cape Town and the Winelands through a fascinating 10 trip with Thomson Tailormade. The price costs from £1,399 pp and includes car hire, international airfares.

BOTSWANA:

The year round water supply of the Chobe and Okavango rivers gives Botswana the greatest concentration of wildlife in Southern Africa. Enjoy a unique safari experience in a mokoro (dug-out canoe) to witness large game and abundant predators close up and at eye level.

Examples include:

• Thomson Tailormade offers a 7 day tour of Victoria Falls, Chobe and The Okavango Delta from £3,115 per person. The price includes 2 nights at Victoria Falls, 2 nights at the Chobe Game Reserve and 2 nights at the Okavango Delta as well as international and internal flights.

A short flight into the unique wetland that is the Okavango Delta. The 16,000 sq kms of crystal clear channels produce a labyrinth of lagoons, floodplains and islands creating a safari experience like nowhere else on earth. Game viewing activities are by canoe, motorised boat or on foot ensuring big game close-up.

• A fabulous multicentre suggestion is to combine luxury Cape Town and Botswana over 12 days. The price costs from £3,999 pp and includes international and internal airfares.

MOZAMBIQUE:

One of the last destinations in the world to honestly call itself ‘undiscovered’.

With over 2000km of pristine Indian Ocean coastline and virtually untouched by tourism, Mozambique boasts Africa’s finest luxury resorts on fine, white sands on islands surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean. The magical offshore islands feature pristine beaches that melt away into the turquoise warm waters of the Indian Ocean where shallow reefs protect a kaleidoscope of marine life and some of the best dive sites in the world.

Examples include:

• Thomson Tailormade offers 1 night at the 5 star elite Indigo Bay Island Resort from £319 per person. Indigo Bay is an exquisite island resort, situated on the golden shores of Bazaruto Island, the largest of the archipelago, it was granted National Park status and is one of the largest conservation areas in the Indian Ocean. The resort offers understated, elegant accommodation in sheltered and secluded thatch and reed chalets, with direct access to the Indian Ocean beachfront.

• Enjoy the luxury of Kruger National Park with Mozambique on an 11 day trip with Thomson Tailormade costing £3,099 pp. Price includes international airfares.

For Bookings and Information Contact Thomson Tailormade on 0871 230 2770 or visit www.thomsontailormade.com

No Man’s Land No More – The Great Limpopo of Southern Africa

New flights have opened up this remote no-man’s land of the trans-frontier region of Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique and Wildland Adventures is ready to get you there. Ecological diversity, stunning wildlife and landscapes mix with major conservation endeavors across all these countries.

Explore the remote trans-frontier wild lands of Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mozambique. At Mashatu Private Game Reserve, venture into the bush with wildlife researchers to learn about the Tuli Elephant Research Project and the Northern Tuli Predator Project.

Walk among dinosaur footprints and skeletons of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve.

This reserve protects significant paleontological sites as well as rock art and remnants of Stone Age tools that are still found here, one of the longest inhabited places on earth. Visitors will also make connections with the local Makuleke people who are hosts in a community-based conservation program within the private Pafuri Reserve — part of Kruger National Park. Compliment this journey in the wild lands of Africa with a visit to uniquely cosmopolitan Cape Town.

A personal Wildland host in the Cape will share the cultural and natural history of the region while guests enjoy wine tasting in the Cape Winelands and have an opportunity to partake of a few rounds of golf at some of the Cape’s most beautiful and challenging courses.

South Africa’s sunny temperate climate makes this an ideal safari adventure any time of year. Trip begins in Johannesburg and ends in Cape Town, 10 days/9 nights, per person sharing $5695.

www.wildland.com

South Africa-based CFA Air Charters introduced a new non-stop service between Maputo and Bazaruto Island, Mozambique, the home of Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa.

The new flight allows Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa’s guests an easier and more cost-effective way of traveling straight to Bazaruto Island.

The island is one of six islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Guests also save time by clearing customs at Maputo Airport rather than at the regional airport of Vilánculos.

An early arrival time on Bazaruto and late departure gives guests more time to experience Bazaruto Island and enjoy Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa.

The cost of the flight is approximately $475 per person return excluding IVA and a passenger tax of $10. Service to Bazaruto Island is available Monday and Friday.

The flights leave Maputo at 10:30 a.m. and arrive on the resort’s airstrip at noon. The return service to Maputo is available Thursday and Sunday. Departure time is 2 p.m. with an arrival time in Maputo of 3:30 p.m. The luggage allowance for passengers is 20 kilograms (about 44 pounds).

The airplane offers windows seats for all passengers.

Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa is situated on Bazaruto Island, the largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago.

It provides its guests with a choice of luxurious Bay View Villas, Beach Chalets, a beachfront Honeymoon Villa and a Presidential Villa. Rani Resorts is a luxury resort brand in Mozambique, an emerging Indian Ocean destination in Southern Africa. Rani Resorts’ portfolio features a collection of beach resorts and safari operations.

For more information or reservations, call 27 (0)11 658 0633, email reservations@raniresorts.com  , or visit www.raniresorts.com