January – Dry season for gorilla tracking in Uganda

Where better to be based for gorilla tracking than Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest? This UNESCO World Heritage site in Uganda is home to half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and recently welcomed two new gorilla families in June 2011.

This has allowed an increase in the number of daily gorilla tracking permits for guests, although due to the luxury camp’s unique location, many guests encounter the gorilla families without even leaving the grounds!

February – Celebrate Valentine’s Day with sky beds & star baths

The five suites at the intimate Sanctuary Baines’ Camp in Botswana all have private viewing decks where an intimate bath for two can be arranged. Guests also have the option to roll out their four-poster bed for a night under the stars, overlooking the shimmering waters of the Boro River.

March – First waters start to flood the Okavango Delta in Botswana

The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta, formed by the flooding of the Okavango River in the Kalahari Desert.

In March, guests at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp witness the first waters pushing through the Delta.

April – Celebrate Easter on the Yangzi in China

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer offers the finest and most personalized service on the river, carrying just 124 passengers. Easter cruises include special activities like Easter Egg painting, an Easter Egg hunt and dinner with the Easter Bunny!

May – Marvel at the Victoria Falls in full flow
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and rightly so! Spray from the falls typically rises to a height of over 400 meters, sometimes surpassing even that. It is visible from up to 50 kilometers away, hence the local name for the falls and the surrounding national park, Mosi-Oa-Tunya, “the Smoke that Thunders.”

Minutes away from Victoria Falls, Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, is a collection of 12 tree houses situated on a dramatic bend in the Zambezi, providing guests with amazing views.

June – A walking safari in Zambia’s South Luangwa

The South Luangwa National Park is the birthplace of the walking safari and home to Sanctuary Retreats’ newest camp, Sanctuary Zebra Plains.

Guests can explore the pristine and unspoiled wilderness with one of the country’s most experienced guides.

The diversity of the surrounding habitat, home to large populations of zebra, elephant, buffalo, crocodile, puku, and over 400 bird species, provides some of the most spectacular walking in Africa.

July – See the Great Migration in the Masai Mara

From July to October, the Masai Mara is the stage for the Wildebeest Migration, one of nature’s greatest shows.

Guests staying at Sanctuary Olonana in Kenya can see millions of wildebeest and zebra journey between the Masai Mara and Serengeti in search of greener pastures.

August – Improve photography skills in the Galapagos

In August, Galapagos hawks court on Espanola and Santiago Islands, migrant shore birds begin to arrive, giant tortoises return to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island and Sanctuary Retreats is hosting a special photography workshop cruise with an award-winning photographer aboard the MV Eclipse!

September – Dry season for superb cheetah viewing in the Serengeti

With endless plains, the wildebeest migration, and countless big cats, the Serengeti is undoubtedly an epic safari destination. Sanctuary Kusini, the only permanently tented camp in the southern Serengeti, is located directly in the path of the seasonal cheetah movement, making it an ideal place to spot cheetah year-round.

October – Experience the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt

Twice a year, in February and October, the inner sanctum of the temple at Abu Simbel is illuminated by the sun’s rays.

It is believed Ramses II designed the temple to celebrate his ascension to the throne and his birthday. Guests can experience this wondrous sight aboard the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer.

November – Prime bird-watching in Tanzania’s Tarangire

Tarangire, in northern Tanzania, is known for its baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Additionally, the park is home to approximately 550 different types of birds, including many rare species. Sanctuary Swala offers both walking and night drives, providing countless opportunities for bird spotting.

December – Swap tradition for the exotic!
This year, why not celebrate the festive season by dining with elephants in the Okavango Delta? Or with a Maasai celebration in the Masai Mara? Or an exploration of ancient Egypt with a Nile cruise? The options are endless with Sanctuary Retreats.

The Sanctuary Sale:

Book before February 29, 2012 and save 25% in China, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. For more information on travel dates and conditions please visit: www.sanctuaryretreats.com/sanctuary_sale.cfm

About Sanctuary Retreats

Sanctuary Retreats’ collection of luxury safari lodges and explorer ships bring the boutique experience to guests with the added promise of authenticity. Each property is completely individual in its design and operated around the philosophy of “Luxury, naturally.”

All have the same aim: to allow guests to have a “real” experience and enjoy a more natural kind of luxury in properties that have a strong commitment to conservation and responsible tourism. The Sanctuary portfolio includes safari camps and lodges in Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia, as well as expedition cruise ships on the Nile, Yangzi and Galapagos Islands.

For more information about Sanctuary Retreats, please visit www.sanctuaryretreats.com,  email info@sanctuaryretreats.com  or call +44 (0)207 190 7739.

For those wanting to explore lesser-known southern Tanzania, the Selous Safari Camp offers the perfect sophisticated safari experience. Situated within an open palm forest on the shores of Lake Nzerakera in the Selous Game Reserve, guests can enjoy daily walking and boat safaris in one of Africa’s least known, yet wildest, conservation areas.

And after discovering the wilds of Tanzania, guests can revive, restore and rejuvenate on Vamizi Island, an ultra-luxurious private beach lodge on the Quirimbus Archipelago, Mozambique.

Celebrating the launch of its first dedicated retreats, visitors can enjoy morning vinasa yoga on the shoreline followed by a freshly-prepared juice or smoothie from the island’s ‘natural pharmacy’ and an evening session against the setting sun – both hosted by renowned instructor Claire Finlay. This exclusive package also offers guests the chance to sample reviving spa treatments, take to the seas to catch surf-fresh tuna sashimi and dive the island’s azure waters.

The exclusive Tanzania Safari and Vamizi Spa Retreats package is only available for limited weeks in 2012 from $6,310 per person. Valid for the weeks commencing March 1 and November 6, the price includes three nights at the Selous Safari Camp on a full-board basis with daily safari activities and five nights at Vamizi Spa Retreat on a fully-inclusive basis to include twice daily yoga sessions, one spa treatment, dive and fishing trip per stay. The price also includes taxes, domestic flights and transfers. Visit http://www.scottdunn.com  or call 0044 20 8682 5070 for more information.

If an unforgettable bush picnic surrounded by the sights and sounds of African wildlife and lilting birdcalls doesn’t spark the adrenaline rush of love, then perhaps a sunset cruise will do the trick. As the boat leisurely drifts along the Douw Steyn Dam, the sky will transform from stark blue to a rich crimson and gold until finally the golden twinkle of the stars sparkle in the sky. And, one of the most magical experiences at Shambala is spending a few hours in the silence of the African bush under the Milky Way, taking in the wonders of galaxies, constellations and stars.

Shambala’s Zulu Camp offers traditional honeycomb-shaped chalets in the heart of the bushveld, with streams from the nearby river running through the camp. The seven chalets are furnished and decorated in chic Afro-French Provincial style. Each has its own private entrance with the bedroom featuring a dressing room and leading out to the romantically situated outdoor shower and bathroom. The doors from the bathroom open out onto a wooden deck with views of the surrounding bush.

And during your stay, enjoy personalized cuisine where world class chefs take the greatest pleasure in preparing dishes to suit guests’ individual tastes accompanied by wine pairings. With food for the soul and stomach, and the use of Shambala’s spa, anyone will be refreshed enough to take on an elephant safari. The elephants are trained and cared for by their experienced trainers with whom they share a close bond. This will be your opportunity to see the Big Five: the leopard, lion, elephant, black and white rhino and buffalo.

While discovering the quiet rhythms of nature, uncover a lover’s paradise at Shambala.

Rates are R18000.00 ZA ($2,282) per night, excluding transfers and international brand drinks.

Contact info@shambalagamereserve.co.za , +27 (0)11 292 6030 or visit http://www.shambalagamereserve.com / for more information.

Rates are based on the exchange rate between US Dollars and South Africa Rand as of 01/26/12

Joining the Summit Serviced Residences collection are properties from AKA, a collection of extended-stay properties with locations in New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Va. Preferred expects to grow its Summit Serviced Residences collection internationally and will target key cites in Asia, Africa, Europe, and India, where it already includes its inaugural partners in Singapore, 8 on Claymore Serviced Residences, and in South Africa, Gondwana Game Reserve.

The package includes international airfare from New York (JFK) or Washington, D.C. (Dulles) on South African Airways, domestic and regional flights, fuel surcharges and flight taxes. Clients who book during the month of February receive a Couples’ Back, Neck and Shoulder massage at the Twelve Apostles Hotel; picnic lunch from the Twelve Apostles for a hike on the wilderness trails around the hotel; and a Couples’ Bush Bath and Massage at Sabi Sabi.

Accommodations in Cape Town are at the five-star Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa with rooms that are either mountain- or sea-facing. On safari, clients stay at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge in an all-suite exclusive lodge in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, in the heart of the bushveld, overlooking a river plain and waterhole where animals regularly come to drink.

In Mauritius, accommodation is at the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort on the beach overlooking the Bay of Balaclava, with deluxe rooms overlooking the beach and calm, clear waters. The package starts at $6,499 per person. This price is valid for departures in May. For the special Valentine’s Day offers, the package must be booked by Feb. 29.

Lion World Tours specializes in group and individual tours to Southern and East Africa, and is a member of The Travel Corporation. For more information, call 800-387-2706.

One Size Fits All doesn’t always work, and when booking the perfect vacation, travel is no exception. The safari consultants at African Travel, Inc. are experts when it comes to designing the ideal customized vacation no matter what your needs are. African Travel offers a variety of itineraries and price points suited to everyone, so whether you have a week or a month, and whatever your budget, African Travel can offer a tailor-made life-changing journey to Africa.

Now Offering Three Tiers of Adventure!

Tier One: Cape Breakaway
For those with only a small amount of time and on a limited budget, Cape Breakaway offers 4-star comfort in a tranquil corner of the city center with daily sightseeing and safaris filled with all of the local highlights. From a trip to the top of Table Mountain, to the tip of the Cape Peninsula.
8 Days from $1,995 per person, land only
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/cape-breakaway/
Offer Code: ATF140

Tier Two: South African Discovery
For those with a little more time, South African Discovery combines a fully escorted group tour through Kruger National Park, the Kingdom of Swaziland and Zululand with a highly personalized privately guided stay in Cape Town.
12 Days from $4,095 per person, land only
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/south-african-discovery/
Offer Code: ATF141

Tier Three: Our Family Pride Safari
And for those who want only the best, on Our Family Pride Safari, guests will travel between South Africa’s coasts taking in her breathtaking natural scenery and prolific wildlife while enjoying a high level of luxury at award winning hotels and lodges.
11 Days from $8,595 per person, land only
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/our-family-pride-safari-south-african-safari/
Offer Code: ATP142

For additional information, please contact your local travel professional or call (800) 421-8907

www.AFRICANTRAVELINC.com

Cape Grace understands that not all guests are traveling as a romantic two-some, so Cape Town’s best hotel is now offering a new “For The Girls” package. With February right around the corner, Cape Grace has decided to celebrate the holiday by creating a package for women who want to embrace their single status this Valentine’s Day.

Friends traveling together will leave with bronzed skin, a tranquil mindset and maybe a little sparkle from Platandia jewelers, Africa’s leading luxury jewelry brand. “For The Girls” offers a break from the grind with a yacht cruise, pampering spa treatment, private shopping trip and jewelry consultation.

Highlights of the package include:

Three-night stay at Cape Grace with daily breakfast

Dinner at Signal Restaurant

One-hour sunset cruise on Cape Grace’s luxury yacht, Spirit of the Cape

Private tour and diamond evaluation class at Platandia

30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage at the Spa at Cape Grace

Sparkling wine and specialty South African treat upon arrival

In-room movie and popcorn

Afternoon tea in the Library

Private chauffeured shopping tour

The package will be available from February 10 through March 31, 2012, and priced from 9,013 Rand (approx. US$1,320) per person per night, based on double occupancy (with a three-night minimum).

For more information about Cape Grace, please visit: www.capegrace.com.

ABOUT CAPE GRACE:

Cape Grace is owned by Meikles Ltd. Nestled in Cape Town’s Waterfront, the gracious sanctuary of Cape Grace embraces tradition, sophistication and contemporary comfort. The luxurious spaciousness of the refashioned Cape-influenced guestrooms and suites, the diversity of amenities and the unsurpassed standards in service, both proficient and personal, have all ensured Cape Grace is a favorite for many returning guests. Visit www.capegrace.com to learn more.

For clients with limited time and a limited budget, Cape Breakaway offers four-star comfort in a tranquil corner of Cape Town’s City Center with daily sightseeing and safaris. The program enables clients to see the local highlights, and includes a trip to the top of Table Mountain and a visit to the tip of the Cape Peninsula. The eight-day package is priced from $1,995 per person, land only.

For your clients with a little more time, the company recommends South African Discovery. It combines a fully escorted group tour through Kruger National Park, the Kingdom of Swaziland and Zululand with a privately guided stay in Cape Town. The 12-day packages is priced from $4,095 per person, land only.

On the top end, African Travel offers the Family Pride Safari, which takes clients on a journey through the South African heartland to see the natural scenery and wildlife while enjoying a high level of luxury at hotels and lodges. The 11-day package is priced from $8,595, or now on special from $6,895 per person, land only, a savings of $1,700. This special offer is not combinable with any other special offers and must be booked by Feb. 29, for travel through Oct. 31. For more information, call 800-421-8907.

Cape Town’s Cape Grace hotel is offering a new For The Girls package designed to help single girls celebrate their single status on Valentine’s Day. The package includes a three-night stay at Cape Grace with daily breakfast; dinner at Signal Restaurant; one-hour sunset cruise on Cape Grace’s luxury yacht, Spirit of the Cape; private tour and diamond evaluation class at Platandia; 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage at the Spa at Cape Grace; sparkling wine and specialty South African treat upon arrival; in-room movie and popcorn; afternoon tea in the Library; and private chauffeured shopping tour. The package is available Feb. 10 to March 31, priced from 7,070 ZAR (approximately $913) per person per night double occupancy, with a three-night minimum. Cape Grace stands at the edge of Cape Town’s Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

If winter is getting to be too much, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat offers the perfect escape! South Africa’s warm days are ideal for outdoor activities in the beautiful foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, and the cool evenings are perfect for enjoying drinks around the fireplace. As you ponder rock climbing, wine tasting, or a spa vacation. Bushmans Kloof’s excellent hospitality and delicious cuisine will push thoughts of winter well into the background.

Here are a few of the great escapes awaiting you at award-winning Bushmans Kloof:

Food and Wine Weekends. Winemakers from Cederberg, Tierhoek, Fryer’s Cove and Steenberg collaborate with Bushmans Kloof Executive Chef Floris Smith. March 30-31, May 25-26, June 1-2, July 6-7, and July 27-28. Food and Wine Weekends from $251.30 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Take a Three-Night Winter Getaway. Escape to the breathtaking Cederberg wilderness and leave the stress and strain of everyday life behind. Incredible food and exciting outdoor activities await you. Three-Night Winter Getaway is from $205.00 per person per night.

Let nature restore you with the Natural Wellness package. “The Cederberg’s wide open plains, mystical rock formations, crystal clear water falls, and abundance of flora and fauna make it a source of rejuvenation,” says Bushmans Kloof General Manager Graham Kennedy. Included in the Natural Wellness package is a Bushmans Kloof back, neck and shoulder massage. Natural Wellness is from $225.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

The Nurture in Nature package combines stimulating outdoor activities along with relaxing soul soothing experiences. This two-night mid-week package is from $228.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

All three winter packages are valid from April 1 to August 3 and include accommodations, all meals (afternoon tea, dinner, full English breakfast and a la carte lunch), and a variety of activities such as nature drives, guided rock art excursions, botanical walks, canoeing, archery, fly fishing, hiking, swimming, birding and star gazing.

Respected researcher Quinton Martins from the Cape Leopard Trust will visit Bushmans Kloof for four two-day visits on March 28-29, May 15-16, June 27-28 and July 10-11, to share his passion on this intriguing animal and to discuss conservation and tracking with guests. From $228.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Life coach and author Pierre van der Spuy will host two-night getaways on July 29-30 and August 20-21. He will guide guests in discovering your passion and changing your views on what makes us human, happy and authentically successful. From $215.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Yoga enthusiasts can be guided through a two-day retreat from June 10-11 and August 13-14, in the stunning surroundings of Bushmans Kloof by experienced teacher Jim Harrington. From $215.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

For further information or to book your reservation, contact the Reservations Team on 021 481 1860 or info@bushmanskloof.co.za

MORE ABOUT BUSHMANS KLOOF

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is a luxurious ecological oasis of 18 533 acres (7500 hectare), nestled at the foothills of the breathtaking Cederberg mountains. Here majestic views, staggering rock formations, open plains, invigorating outdoor activities, luxurious accommodation, award-winning Cape cuisine and a wellness experience deeply rooted in Nature combine to create an unforgettable, luxury wilderness adventure.

Less than three hours’ drive from Cape Town, it is unequivocally recognized as a conservation success story and has received international acclaim for its exceptional environmental and conservation projects. These include its Rock art conservation program; providing a sanctuary for the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra and Clanwilliam Yellow Fish; its support of the Cape Mountain Leopard project and the Clanwilliam Cedar Tree project; as well as alien vegetation clearing. Other environmentally friendly practices at the lodge include the cultivation of organic kitchen gardens, recycling waste material, and water and energy saving.

Malaria and predator free, Bushmans Kloof is a sanctuary for many indigenous plants, animals and birds, including the endangered Cape mountain zebra. It is also home to over 130 San rock art sites, is recognized as one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage Sites, and is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. It bases its entire business ethos on preserving the precious natural environment, while providing guests with the ultimate African wilderness experience in the beautiful surroundings of the Cederberg Wilderness Area, which forms part of the Cape Floral Region – a recognized World Heritage site.

A mere 170 miles from Cape Town, the 5-star Relais & Châteaux lodge, voted Best Hotel in the World 2009 (Travel + Leisure), is renowned for its warm, caring service and exceptional hospitality, where guests can expect superb contemporary Cape cuisine and world-class facilities. Set among wide open plains, majestic rock formations and crystal clear waterfalls, it offers a host of enriching, relaxing and invigorating experiences, such as daily guided rock art walks, mountain biking, canoeing, fishing, archery and swimming in rock pools or the four swimming pools. Bushmans Kloof is a place of natural wonder where you can indulge in a vast range of activities, or do absolutely nothing but inhale the beauty, peace, and tranquility in the midst of nature’s playground.