Safari

Nothing beats the excitement of your first ever safari.  It’s one of those beautiful, one-off experiences that gets under your skin, into your very bloodstream, and lures you back time and again.

The smell of log fires fills the crisp air as you embark on an early-morning game drive.  In the distance rises that huge red African sun, bringing with it the promise of adventure and excitement, of the anticipation, discovery and delight to come.

Later, in the intense heat of the day, as the bush shimmers provocatively and crickets begin their deafening symphony, unwind by a pool, snooze on a shaded viewing deck or relish the extreme luxury of your room.

Head out on the afternoon game drive, and admire the spectacular sunset.  While you gasp and gaze, sundowner drink in hand, listen to the roar of a lion, the call of a jackal, the hoot of an owl or the laugh of a hyena.

As night falls, head back to the lodge for a sensational dinner in an African-style al-fresco dining room – perhaps a boma, a viewing deck or even a ‘bush dinner’ beside a dry riverbed or waterhole.  Wherever you are, roaring fires, star-covered skies, candles and lanterns will transform mealtimes into a romantic, unforgettable experience.

Among South Africa’s numerous parks and reserves, the headline act is Greater Kruger, with its numerous satellite private reserves offering five-star lodges and sensational game viewing.  Enticing families, the exclusive Garden Route reserves and Western Cape reserves and the dramatic Madikwe are all malaria-free.  The beautiful Pilansberg and Waterberg biosphere are handily near Johannesburg, while Sanbona’s close to Cape Town.  All game reserves offer something unique, Addo specialises in elephants; Sabi Sand in leopards.  For remoteness, try the Kalahari, where cheetahs, meerkats and lions roam desolate semi-desert.  Each offers world-class accommodation and each will provide magical experiences that you will never forget.