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02 September 2007 On arrival at Cape Town Airport you proceed through passport control to the luggage collection area and then through Customs to the Arrivals Hall. Look out for our representative from ..., they will be holding a name board with your surname on it. They will then transfer you (private transfer) to the Overberg and onto Sandbaai near Hermanus for your two night stay at Schulphoek Seafront Guest House. Schulphoek Seafront Guest HouseSchulphoek Seafront Lodge, in Hermanus, is situated in a beautiful protected sanctuary right on the edge of the sea, with spectacular sea views from the sitting room and terrace. Southern Right Whales come right into the bay in front of the lodge to breed from July to November, and a coastal walking trail runs past the lodge. Seven spacious bedrooms, each individually decorated offer garden views. One bedroom, the Scallop room, is situated on the entire first floor and offers magnificent sea views from huge windows which run the length of the room. The Limpet room is also a favourite for all romantics. Each room has solid hand-crafted wooden beds, percale cotton linen, overhead fans, wall heaters, safe, seating area, TV/video and tea/coffee facilities and the bathrooms are modern with bath and shower, sometimes spa baths. The atmosphere is relaxed, warm and inviting with an emphasis on good quality cuisine. The dining room with uninterrupted sea view offers a four-course menu du jour with delectable seafood and venison dishes, herbs and vegetables picked from the potager and over 7000 bottles of regional wine. There's a professional kitchen and guests are invited to join in the planning and watch the preparation of their meals. Guests usually eat around one long table and drinks are on an honesty system. A complimentary dinner is offered to all guests who stay two nights or more. Enjoy the heated salt water pool and Jacuzzi in the Summer House in the garden. Other activities at the lodge include whale-watching from the terrace, table tennis, satellite TV, petanque, reading in the small library and reflexology and shiatsu treatments by appointment. Schulphoek is in the quiet Sandbaai area of Hermanus but just 5-10 minutes drive from the busy town centre. TGCSA 5 star lodge. 03 September 2007 Today you are going on a whale watching boat trip, which has been arranged by Schulphoek Guesthouse. As this activity is weather permitted, it has to be settled directly on the day the trip departs. Schulphoek Guesthouse has also reserved return transport to and from the harbour and will confirm the departure time when you arrive at the guesthouse. (Boat trip and return transport for your own account) HermanusThe cosmopolitan fishing town and resort of Hermanus offers year round charm and stunning coastal scenery. Secluded sandy beaches are backed by velvety mountains covered with exceptional fynbos vegetation. The wild flowers are particularly enchanting and walking trails follow the coast, ideal for whale-watching, or take you into the mountains. The adventurous can enjoy whale-watching boat cruises and even cage diving amongst the sharks at Gansbaai. More relaxing pursuits would be exploring the numerous arts and craft shops. The southern coast boasts some of the finest land-based whale-watching in the world with sightings of Southern Right Whales between July and December, normally peaking in August and September, when the Southern Right Whales come right into the bays to give birth. We recommend some of the following activities:· Scenic drives and walks in Fernkloof Nature Reserve - As you approach Hermanus from the west, there's a sign for the Rotary Way on your left. The road climbs up to the Fernkloof Nature Reserve with wonderful views of Walker Bay. Fernkloof has superb fynbos vegetation including proteas & ericas and the peak flowering time is September to October. There are several walking trails and a great Educational Centre. If you fancy a coastal walk, (ideal for whale-watching) you can access the coastal path from the old harbour and walk away from the town in the direction of the Marine Hotel. The coastal path meanders past all of the beaches and ends at Grotto Beach. · Beaches - To find the best beaches by road, continue through the town past the Marine Hotel and follow signs for Stanford (R43). When you come to a large roundabout, take the last exit to the right and you will see signs to the various beaches off this road. Langbaai is the smallest. It has the best surf for bodysurfing but at high tide the sea may not be suitable for young children. Kammabaai is the next beach followed by Voelklip. Both are ideal for surfers and families alike as they have a sheltered section, whilst Grotto Beach has miles of sand, ideal for long walks in the early evening. Please note the current can be very strong on all South African beaches so please take care.· Wine tasting - visit some of the excellent wine estates on the edge of Hermanus: Whalehaven on 028 316 1633 and Bouchard Finlayson Wine Estate on 028 312 3515. The estates are at the beginning of a very attractive gravel road to Caledon called the 'Hemel en Aarde' road. Look out for the R320 Caledon when you approach Hermanus from the west.· Boat Cruises - whale watching cruises are now offered from the New Harbour. Contact the following companies for their sailing times and latest prices: Southern Right Charters on 082 353 0550 or 082 536 0950; Hermanus Whales Cruises on 082 750 7351 or 082 369 8931· Great White Shark viewing trips - this boat operates from Gansbaai and offers an exhilarating if somewhat controversial operation, as participants are also able to dive in cages to interact with the Great White Sharks. Contact White Shark Projects on 028 384 1774 or Great White Shark Tours on 083 300 2138. · Old Harbour - offers a panoramic view of Walker Bay. Small museum on the history of fishing. 028 312 1475. · The Whale Museum off the Market Place features daily Whale Shows, a one hour presentation on the Southern Right Whale. 021 424 2086.· The Birkenhead Brewery and Wine Estate, Stanford, is the only microbrewery of its kind in South Africa; they offer tours, tasting and excellent lunches overlooking the mountains. 028 341 0183. Whale-watchingThe whale season runs from June/July through to December with the peak months being September and October when the whales come right into the bay to breach (and when daily sightings are almost guaranteed). There are about 40 to 70 whales, which come into Walker Bay every year with the Southern Right Whale being the common species of whale to be seen. The huge oval head is covered in wart-like bumps called callosities. The adults are approximately 14-18 metres long and weigh about 40-80 tons. The whales are often easily visible from the coastal path. The Whale Hotline on 083 910 1028 is an ideal way to find out about the day's sightings. Why not ring before you arrive so that you can maximize your whale spotting chances?
What are they doing?Breaching - When they lift their entire bodies out of the water in a massive graceful leap. They usually breach three to five times in succession.Lobtailing - When whales slap their tails on the surface of the water. This may be communication or a warning to rival whales.Spyhopping - When whales lift their heads and part of their bodies out of the water vertically. This gives the whale a 360° degree view of the surrounding area.Blowing - The sound when water is expelled from the lungs through their blowholes accompanied by a waterspout.Grunting - A loud bellowing sound often made at night, which can carry to up to 2km. Restaurants in HermanusThere's an array to choose from. We recommend booking especially in summer.· Burgundy Restaurant - well-established restaurant 028 312 2800.· Harbour Rock Restaurant - excellent seafood and sushi (but slowish service so go early) 028 312 2920· Seafood at the Marine - smart seafood restaurant 028 313 1000· Bientang's Cave - unusual cave restaurant with crashing waves. Great in high summer; too cold in winter. 028 312 3454. · Meditterea - seafood restaurant. Try to get a window seat for glorious sea views 028 313 1685· Red Indigo at Grootbos Lodge near Stanford. Booking essential on 028 384 8000· Rossi - well-established popular pizzeria/italian. Great for families. 028 312 2848. GansbaaiAs the bay is protected from the devastating south-easterly winds, Gansbaai is a natural harbour for fisherman. Gansbaai has now established itself as the great white shark capital of the world and various great white shark viewing/diving operations are active here. Four miles from the Kleinbaai Harbour are the pristine Dyer and Geyser islands - both nature reserves. Geyser Island hosts a colony of more than 30,000 Cape fur seals and Dyer Island is primarily a bird sanctuary with penguins, cormorants and other species. Most shark sightings take place near Dyer Island and the so-called 'shark alley' - the channel between the two islands. Shark viewing trips generally take between 4 and 6 hours. Contact White Shark Projects on 028 384 1774 or 082 6791045 or Great White Shark Tours on 083 300 2138. Dyer Island Cruises offers 2½ hour whale watching cruises in season and day long white shark cage diving and surface viewing boat trips at 028 384 0406 or 082 801 8014. Stanford is an attractive country village between Hermanus and Gansbaai. They offer river cruises (African Queen River Cruises, 3 hours, on 082 732 1284) and horse-riding with the African Horse Company on 082 667 9232. The Maze at Stanford is a charming coffee shop with enclosed garden with play area and small maze, ideal for children. Children's creative workshops during school holidays (028 341 0539).
04 September 2007 This morning at 10:00 you are collected from the guest house by ... Touring and transferred back to Cape Town and onto the Waterfront for your four night stay at the City Lodge V&A Waterfront. City Lodge V&A WaterfrontThe City Lodge Waterfront hotel is located at the entrance to the vibrant and dynamic V&A Waterfront. It is within easy walking distance of the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town's central business district and 15 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. A nautical theme runs through the hotel and a jacuzzi-pool is available for guests. The Hotel has recently undergone a complete facelift and revamp, which includes 44 additional rooms, plus a fitness room and internet cafe. Each room has an en-suite bathroom with both a bath and shower. Cape TownCape Town is famous throughout the world for its majestic mountain and ocean setting. Over the centuries, visitors have marvelled not only at the peninsula's natural splendour but also at the cultural diversity of the Mother City - the blending of Eastern, African and Western ways of life, which is constantly evident in architecture, dress and local customs. There is so much to do and see in Cape Town. We have outlined some of the main pastimes below. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Visit the Waterfront with its array of craft shops, restaurants and entertainment. For more than 80 years the Waterfront was a thriving harbour however after the Second World War, decline and dilapidation set in until 988 when it was decided to redevelop the area. Now visitors can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and browse through the craft markets, watch an open-air concert, enjoy a meal, or simply to sit and admire the spectacular view of Table Mountain and the activities of a working harbour. Also at the Waterfront are the following:· The Two Oceans Aquarium at the Waterfront - an enjoyable place to go if the South-Easter is blowing or if Cape Town is having a cloudy day. The Aquarium shop offers a wide selection of aquatic souvenirs, gifts, books and videos. The Bay front Blue Restaurant is open daily. Open 0930 to 1800 - last tickets sold at 1700. · The Art and Craft Market - here you can buy anything from lampshades to belts, fabrics and T-shirts, or you can simply spend time browsing among the stalls admiring the crafts. · The BMW Pavilion houses the IMAX cinema, with its cinema screen showing images up to seven storeys high. Excellent for children. Shows daily from 0900 to 2300 during summer and 1100 to 2100 during winter. Tel - 021 419 7364.· Cruises around the harbour and to Robben Island - see below under Boat Trips.· Victoria Wharf shopping - over 200 speciality and designer shops. Open Monday to Saturday from 0900 to 2100, Sunday 1000 to 2100. Central city sights· Greenmarket Square - is a colourful African craft market selling a range of goods. It's great fun to browse around the market but be aware that pickpockets find this a paradise!· The Company Gardens - The establishment of a garden was the main reason for the existence of the European settlement at the Cape. Now the vegetable garden for scurvy-stricken sailors has become a botanical garden for indigenous and exotic trees and a rose garden with outdoor cafes. When strolling down Government Avenue in the Gardens you will be able to see the Houses of Parliament, the Cultural History Museum, the South African Museum, the South African National Art Gallery and the South African Library.· The Castle of Good Hope - houses the Military museum and the excellent William Fehr Collection of antiques, artefacts and paintings of early Cape Town. The Castle was built by the Dutch between 1666 and 1679 to replace their original mud-walled fortress. Open daily from 0900 to 1600 with tours of the castle at 1100, 1200 and 1400.· Malay Quarter - spend some time walking the narrow cobbled streets of the picturesque Malay Quarter with its colourful flat roofed houses dating from the 17th and 18th century. This area was originally settled by former slaves who came to the Cape from Indonesia, India as well as Malaysia. The area is still predominantly Muslim. Located on the slopes of Signal Hill above Buitengragt Street (e.g. Wale Street, Rose Street, Dorp Street). The Bo-Kaap museum gives a glimpse into the life of the Cape Malay family in the 19th century. 71 Wale Street. Open Tuesday to Saturday 0930 to 1630. Museums· South African Museum - top of the Company Gardens. It has an exhibit on the different African people of South Africa, their history and culture, as well as a natural history section, (secondary interest) and a Planetarium. 25 Queen Victoria Street. Open daily 1000 to 1700. The South African National Gallery, also in the Company Gardens, has a growing display of contemporary South African Art and Craftwork. Open daily 1000 to 1700 except Mondays when it opens at 1300.· Koopmans-De Wet house - is a something different, showing the typical colonial interior of a Cape Town House in the late 18th and early 19th century, and houses a superb collection of antiques, carpets, paintings and porcelain. 35 Strand Street between Long and Burg Streets. Open Tuesday to Saturday 0930 to 1630.· The Gold of Africa Museum - comprises a workshop, design library, wine cellar, sculpture garden, museum shop and a gold boutique. It houses a collection of over 350 African gold artefacts from the 19th and 20th centuries from West Africa. Martin Melck House, 96 Strand Street. Open daily 1000 to 1700. · The District Six museum - is a small museum depicting the history of the 'District Six' area, which was a vibrant multi-cultural area in the '60s. The people of the area were forcibly removed by the Apartheid government under the Group Areas Act and this museum brings alive the former residents of this area. Table MountainThe revolving cable car to the top of Table Mountain gives stunning, vertiginous views over Cape Town and its surroundings. Once on top, viewing decks that literally 'hang' visitors over the edge of the mountain offer wonderful photographic opportunities. Although queues have improved it is still best to avoid the peak times (mid morning to mid afternoon). The cable car can be reached by taking Kloof Nek Road to the roundabout and then taking the cable car approach road at the top. It does not operate in very poor visibility or in high winds. Please take a sweater with you even if it is a hot day as the weather can be changeable on the mountain. In winter you should take a warm jacket. Open daily. First cable car is at 0800 and last cable car varies according to season with early evening rides in summer. If you are energetic and fit, you can also climb the mountain. There are some excellent walks at the top ranging from 10-minute strolls to several hours. Please buy a Table Mountain walking map, available from newsagents such as CNA, which also gives maps and walking routes. BeachesThe beaches on the Atlantic (western) side and False Bay (eastern) side of the peninsula have very different characters. Atlantic beaches have spectacular sunsets, cold, cold waters for swimming, surfing waves and trendy people, whereas the False Bay beaches have spectacular sunrises, warmer water and calmer seas and the people wear more clothing. Cape Town ShoppingWe are often asked about shopping in Cape Town and indeed there are many excellent shops for arts and crafts, jewellery and African curios. We give some suggestions below but look out for the Cape Town Tourism 'Arts and Crafts' map for a more comprehensive list. JewelleryThe main jewellery shops are to be found in Adderley Street and St George's Mall. Other reputable jewellers · Uwe Koetter (Alfred Mall. Waterfront Tel - 021 421 1039)· Frank Huppertz, corner of Shortmarket Street and St George's Mall. Tel - 021 424 6344· Franz Hirner, 2c Park Road, Gardens Tel - 021 423 5255· 101 Jewellery Emporium, 101 Kloof Street, Gardens · Gold Museum Shop, Martin Melck House, 96 Strand Street Tel - 021 405 1540 Arts and Crafts· Molweni Afrika - 73 Buitengragt Street· African Image - corner of Burg and Church Street (also Table Bay Hotel Mall)· The Cape Heritage Shop - corner of Burg and Church Street· Indaba Curios - Pier head, Waterfront· Feather Gallery - Upper level, Victoria Wharf, Waterfront· African Heritage - Kiosk No. 8, Victoria Wharf, Waterfront· Afrika Nova - Main Road, Hout Bay· Yellow Door - Upper Level Gardens Centre, Mill Street, Gardens· Church Street - a pedestrian mall filled with art galleries, antiques dealers and small cafes. There is an antiques/flea market every Friday. Inexpensive African art, jewellery, clothing and curios· Red Craft Shed - Victoria Wharf, Waterfront. Open daily until 2100.· Arts and Crafts Market - Waterfront. Open daily 0930 to 1800. · Greenmarket square - between Longmarket and Shortmarket streets. Open Monday to Saturday 0900 to approximately 1630 - sometimes earlier on Saturday afternoons.
05 September 2007 After breakfast you are collected from the hotel at 09:00 by Paradise Touring for your private full day Cape Peninsula Tour, includes lunch. You travel along the coastal road through the chic suburbs of Clifton, Camps Bay and onto Hout Bay. Once a fishing community, and now one of the most popular residential areas, the harbour still has a charm of the days gone by. Next you enjoy a scenic drive along Chapmans Peak as it hugs the cliffside and continue south to reach Cape Point in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, said to be the romantic meeting point of two mighty oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian. Sir Francis Drake, the famous explorer, once called it "the fairest Cape that we saw in the whole circumference of the Globe." This windswept park of rolling hills has many indigenous plant species - indeed the 7,750 ha. Reserve has as many plant species as the whole of Great Britain. The park also has a variety of wildlife: eland, bontebok, ostrich and baboons. At Cape Point, there is a parking spot from where you can take a funicular railway to the panoramic viewpoint, which encompasses the whole of False Bay and the Boland mountains. Or you may decide to walk up which is quite a steep walk of 20-25 minutes on the way up and 10-15 minutes on the way down. Return along the Indian Ocean coastal road and stop to visit the unique penguin colonies at Boulders beach. A visit to Boulders beach to watch the resident pack of jackass penguins can be one of the highlights of your time spent in Cape Town. Drive through the naval base of Simonstown. This attractive little town has been a naval base for over 200 years and has a number of interesting little shops and back alleyways to explore. In 1795 the British landed before defeating the Dutch at the Battle of Muizenberg. It served as a Royal Navy base until 1957 when the town was finally handed over to South Africa. Jublilee Square has many interesting shops and street vendors as well as a statue of Just Nuisance, a Great Dane adopted by the Royal Navy during the Second World War, who would kindly lead drunken soldiers back to their club! In the afternoon you visit Kirstenbosch Botanical gardens, which must surely be some of the finest gardens in Africa, nestling on the lower slopes of Table Mountain. The National Botanical Garden at Kirstenbosch covers 560 ha of land, stretching up the slopes of Table Mountain to its highest point - Maclear's Beacon. There are several walks that lead through the garden, where staff cultivate 4,000 of the 22 000 southern African flowering plants in a setting of mountain streams, pools and rolling lawns. The land was a bequest from Cecil John Rhodes, who had bought it in 1895. Remains of Jan van Riebeeck's wild almond hedge around the first Dutch settlement can still be seen in the garden. In the late afternoon, you are dropped off at your hotel. 06 September 2007 This morning you are collected from the hotel at 09:00 by Paradise Touring for your private half day Table Mountain & City Tour. Your tour of Table Mountain and Cape Town begins an ascent of Table Mountain by cable car for a panoramic view of the whole of the Cape Peninsula. (The cable car tickets are for your own account as the ascent is weather dependent.) Afterwards you travel into the city where you fist visit the Castle of Good Hope, the original fort of Cape Town built in 1652 and now painstakingly restored. The Castle was built by the Dutch between 1666 and 1679 to replace their original mud-walled fortress. The Castle's main entrance at first faced the sea, which in those days almost lapped at its walls. The present main gateway with its elaborate stonework was built by Governor Simon van der Stel. From there you continue to the lovely flower market and the historic centre of Cape Town with its many 18th century buildings. Finally you explore the Malay quarter, a historic sector of the city with original Malay buildings and narrow streets before continuing to the Waterfront where the tour ends just before lunch.
07 September 2007 This morning at 09:00 you are collected from the hotel by Paradise Touring for your full day of touring the Bo Kaap & District Six Museum and Robben Island, includes lunch & entrances. After lunch you take the boat cruise out to Robben Island. Formerly a political prison, and leper colony before that, this historic landmark has become a museum and national monument. You experience the conditions of incarceration - view Nelson Mandela's maximum-security prison cell (Cell 5) and see the lime quarries. In the one, hard labour was served, in the other prisoners discussed strategy, freedom and future. Later, many would develop eye problems as a result of the sun's reflection off the lime surfaces. This well-preserved landmark is a monument to the triumph of freedom, dignity and determination over humiliation and oppression. You are dropped off at your hotel in the late afternoon.
08 September 2007 At 09:00 this morning you are collected from the hotel by .... Touring and transferred (private transfer) to the Cape Town Airport where you board the domestic flight to Nelspruit. Scheduled flight Cape Town to Safari airport. On arrival at the Kruger Mpumalanga Airport you proceed to the arrivals area. Look out for our representative from .... Safaris, they will be holding a name board with your surname on it. They will then transfer you to the Kruger National Park and onto Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga Lodge for your three night stay and game viewing experience. Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga LodgeLocated on an ancient elephant route in a 10 000 hectare concession of the Kruger National Park, this unique camp is steeped in modern day opulence and luxury. Boasting six luxury air conditioned ‘bee-hive’ suites with earth coloured walls, king size beds, en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers and private game viewing decks. Fabrics, décor and objet d’art are sourced from the local Tsonga community whilst menus offer a traditional taste delicately balanced with a European flair. Activities include game drives, guided walks and Nomadic African Spa treatments. The Kruger National ParkCovering nearly 2 million hectares, the Kruger Park is one of the largest national parks in the world, with the greatest diversity of wildlife species: 147 mammals and about 510 birds. Although mainly flat with vast grassland plains, it also has undulating and mountainous regions, and the southern half of the park is richly covered in a daunting array of plant-forms, including an abundance of trees. It was President Paul Kruger who first suggested that a wildlife conservation area back in 1884. In 1898 the Sabie Game Reserve was officially proclaimed, encompassing the area between the Sabie and Crocodile rivers. The first warden of the new reserve was Major James Stevenson-Hamilton, who played a decisive role in the consolidation of land and the ultimate proclamation of the Kruger National Park. There were ceaseless battles with landowners who wanted the land for agriculture. In the end, persistence paid off, and the Kruger National Park was formally proclaimed in 1926. The pattern of Game-viewingThe pattern for safaris is to take game drives with your ranger in the late afternoon and early morning. This is the time when animals are most likely to be seen. After lunch you can relax in your room or by the pool until tea and coffee are served at approximately 1530 (in winter) or 1600 (in summer). The game drive will start immediately after tea and will continue into the early evening. Your vehicle is manned by a qualified ranger and a highly skilled tracker. Their combined resources of sound bush knowledge, practical skills and love of nature promise you informative, exciting and rewarding encounters with the abundance of wildlife. The Ranger drives the vehicle and converses with guests, and, by means of two-way radio, also communicates with other vehicles on game drive in order to keep in touch with sightings in other areas. The tracker, seated in a vantage point on the front of the vehicle, tunes into every nuance or clue offered by the bush - a fresh scent mark on a shrub, a muddy patch on a tree left by an itchy rhino, or a tell-tale sign where a kill has been dragged into the bush, and informs the ranger and guests accordingly. Your game ranger is not only your guide for the game drives but also on hand to assist you throughout your stay. I won't go into detail as to what game you will see as your ranger can give you a deeper overview of the animals in the region. Major scene stealers are probably the elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino (the so-called 'Big Five'), but some visitors get just as much of a kick out of spotting a kudu, a comical warthog or tiny steenbok. Half way through the drive, you enjoy sundowner drinks and then the drive continues using lights to spot the nocturnal animals. Your dinner will be served back at the lodge. During your stay, the evening meal is often enjoyed in an open enclosure or 'boma', around an open fire, which many guests feel is a particularly evocative treat. Please note: As the lodge is not fenced, it is possible for wild animals to wander through the camp at night, though not common. After your evening meal, please ask one of the rangers to escort you back to your room with a torch! They will be only too happy to do so. Clothing and equipment on open vehicle game vehiclesCasual bush clothes are the order of the day at the private game reserves and you are not expected to dress for dinner. Please ensure that you have a lightweight shirt and trousers to cover yourself in summer evenings when there are mosquitoes about. Neutral colours are most suitable. Bright colours or white are to be avoided if you are planning to take a bush walk with a ranger as the animals will be scared off by strong colours. A hat with a brim and sunblock is also essential in Summer. In Winter and Spring, it can be very chilly in the early morning and late evening, no matter how warm it has been during the day - please believe us! Bring a warm jacket for the 0600 starts! It is best to dress in layers of clothing so that you can peel off as the sun comes up. By 0900 it could be quite hot again! Binoculars are necessary to really appreciate the animals and good mammal and bird books will aid in identification and will boost your own enjoyment and recollection of your safari. Photography on SafariFor close-up photographs of animals, it is essential to have a 300mm or telephoto lens. However much of our bushveld is characterised by wide open spaces, so a 28mm wide angle lens could also be invaluable, especially if you want to emphasize something in the foreground. 100-200 ASA film will be appropriate for most conditions, but some 400 ASA film can be useful for the light conditions at dusk or if you are lucky enough to come across a cheetah in a high speed chase. Make sure you bring some spare batteries, as these may not be readily available and an ultra-violet filter is also useful for reducing glare. A lens hood will prevent light from diffusing an image if you have to shoot towards the sun. If you are not a regular photographer, the following tips may be useful:· The bright sunlight in South Africa means that early morning and late afternoon are generally the best times for photography. · Avoid static pictures of animals - a giraffe drinking is a much better photo than one just calmly looking at you. · Think about your background - if you are at a water hole you can select a spot to wait, which gives you a good background and the right light.· If you don't have a good tele-photo lens, don't be tempted into taking numerous shots of animals in the medium ground. You'll end up with lots of photos of green or brown bush! Instead concentrate on taking landscape or scene shots, for example, zebras playing or animals congregated at a water hole. Seasons in the KrugerSummer (late November to mid March)- It is very hot and steamy in the park in summer so we recommend early morning and late afternoon drives with relaxation during the day. The bird life is superb at this time of year and there are plenty of young animals but generally game-viewing will not be as productive as in the cooler months as the animals tend to spread out through the park given the plentiful water supply. The dense lush vegetation also inhibits game-spotting. Autumn (late March to May) - Autumn and Spring are good compromise seasons. In autumn the vegetation is still green but becomes less dense and the animals are beginning to congregate around the water holes as they find less surface water on the plains. It is also a pleasanter temperature for touring though still reasonably warm in the evenings. Winter (June to August) - This is often cited as the 'best' game-viewing season. This is partially true in that the dry winter season forces the game to the water holes to drink and the vegetation is much sparser allowing for greater visibility. However the landscape is less attractive as the trees and bushes appear to be dead and the animals are often thinner and less healthy as they strive to survive the drought period. The days are very pleasant - warm and sunny - whilst the nights are decidedly cold so both warm and cool clothing is needed. Spring (Sept to early Nov) - Your experience will depend on whether you visit before or after the first rains have come. Just before and your game viewing is excellent; the weather is warming up considerably with humid days and pleasant evenings but the vegetation is still very dry. If you visit just after the first rains, the landscape is a fresh green with all the new grasses. The game viewing will not be quite as good but the vegetation is still sparse so that visibility is excellent. Late spring also sees the new 'boks (antelope) being born which is a delightful sight. 09 & 10 September 2007 The following morning as the animals rise early, to hunt in the cool of the day, you will generally take your game drive immediately after early morning tea and coffee. The two to three hour drive finishes in time for a late breakfast which will be keenly appreciated after your early morning activity. After breakfast if you wish, you can go on a guided walk into the bush with a ranger. This affords guests the ultimate, close-to-the-wild experience, and a chance to focus on the smaller bush inhabitants including birds, insects and butterflies. You can also discover the interesting worlds of trees, grasses, flowers, geology and ecology - of course, occasionally big game can be seen on walks. Alternatively you can simply relax around the lodge during the heat of the day. The pattern for the rest of the day is similar to the day before with lunch and a late afternoon game drive. 11 September 2007 After a final early morning game drive and breakfast you are collected from the lodge at 09:30 by Eastgate Safaris and transferred to the Kruger Mpumalanga Airport where you board the domestic flight to Johannesburg. Scheduled flight Safari airport to Johannesburg On arrival at the OR Tambo (Johannesburg) Airport you proceed to the Arrivals Hall. Look out for the representative from the Airport Grand Hotel. They will be holding a name board with AIRPORT GRAND HOTEL WELCOMES and then you surname on it. They will then transfer you via shuttle bus to the hotel for your overnight stay.** *** speak to Stephen about if they are not their to meet you. Airport Grand HotelThe 151 bedroom Airport Grand Hotel is situated a mere five minute drive from the Johannesburg International Airport, offering the leisure traveller and business executive convenient access to the airport for early morning flights. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms with bath and separate shower, hairdryers, colour television with MNet, air-conditioning, hairdryers, facilities for the disabled, direct-dialling telephones, digital safes and coffee/tea-making facilities. Johannesburg'E'Goli', as it is called by the locals - the City of Gold. Johannesburg is the pulsating heart of South Africa's industrial and commercial life where, more than a mile below the bustling city traffic, miners still dig for the world's most precious metal. Ever since a fateful day in 1886 when George Harrison, a humble prospector, stumbled upon an outcrop of gold-bearing rock, the region's economy and life have been driven by the rhythm of the mining industry. The effects are inescapable. Walk down the avenues of downtown Johannesburg and you find streets, building and museums that evoke vivid memories of the days of 'gold fever' and the 'Randlords'. Harrison's discovery sparked off a gold rush never experienced before. Prospectors and fortune-seekers descended on the area in search of instant wealth. Makeshift shelters and tents were pitched all over the once tranquil veld. A massive, sprawling, rough and raucous shantytown sprang up overnight. Within three years Johannesburg was the largest town in South Africa. A rudimentary stock exchange was established. Hotels and canteens, brothels and music halls were erected everywhere to satisfy the needs of the boisterous community. Soon, however, mining began to get more costly as they had to dig deeper. The major mining corporations moved in to take control of the industry and swallow up many of the small individual claims. The Randlords emerged on the scene, and soon dominated it. Men like Cecil John Rhodes, Barney Barnato, JB Robinson, Alfred Beit and Julius Wehrner quickly accumulated fortunes and imposed some order on the unruly mining town. Less than five minutes drive from the bustling downtown lie the quiet, elegant suburbs of Houghton and Parktown where they built their opulent mansions. The city is not known for its natural beauty but there is certainly enough here to interest the visitor for a couple of days from its botanical gardens and lakes, its museums, theatres and art galleries and the numerous excursions to Soweto, Lesedi, Pretoria or the Cradle of Humanity at Sterkfontein. Johannesburg is also known for its world-class design in gold and diamond jewellery, ethnic fashion, and arts and crafts. Security in JohannesburgThe downtown city centre is not for casual sight-seeing. If you do want to visit central Johannesburg, we recommend that you take an organised tour or a private guide. This is also the case with Soweto, which is badly signposted and confusing to the casual visitor. 12 September 2007 This morning you take the hotel shuttle bus back to the airport where you proceed to departures and board the flight to Livingstone in Zambia. Scheduled flight Johannesburg to Victoria Falls On arrival at Livingstone Airport you proceed to the arrivals area. Look out for our representative from .... Tours, they will be holding a name-board with your surname on it. They will transfer you to the Falls Resort and onto the Zambezi Sun Hotel for your two nights stay. Zambezi Sun HotelThe magnificent Falls resort in Zambia is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, close to the spectacular Eastern Cataract of the mighty Victoria Falls. The area encompasses approximately 46 hectares and is located in the southeastern corner of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, within the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site. The architecture of the Zambezi Sun Hotel is intended to evoke the feel of an old adobe-walled city. It is comprised of open, low-level buildings in earthy colours with rambling clusters of rooms, punctuated by chimneys and towers. The 212 guest rooms are open and airy and each has French windows onto the landscaped pool area. The restaurant and bar are focused around the central pool. The first floor rooms have private balconies. Added amenities in the rooms include independent air-conditioning, satellite TV, foldout couches, safe and telephone. The central reception area houses a high quality buffet restaurant, a pool bar and a lively alfresco grill and entertainment area.Children are welcome and children under the age of 12 years may share a family room with parents free of charge. They pay for meals only. Around the Falls resortThe Zambezi Sun Hotel is set in the National Park with a number of paths leading to the Falls. The cost of the Park fees are included in the hotel rate so you are free to visit the Falls as many times as you like during your stay.Mountain Bike Hire - hiring a bike allows you to easily explore the surrounding areaShopping - There are shops at the hotel and at Royal Livingstone Hotel. The Local Curio Market is just outside the hotel entrance and is well worth the visit. US Dollars - Please note that the most widely accepted currency in Livingstone/Victoria Falls is US Dollars. Most clients find it helpful to pre-purchase a reasonable amount of cash to cover the departure tax (payable in US dollars cash) and any other optional tours etc. While credit cards are widely used in commercial ventures, the Zambian National Parks Board and Airports Authority will only accept US dollars in cash. Our clients find it easiest to pay for drinks, lunches and any optional tours using US Dollars. ZambiaBlessed with some of the finest wildlife experiences, and one of Africa's greatest rivers, Zambia is the essence of raw Africa. Its game reserves are wild and remote, appealing to those hungry for an intimate safari experience in a pristine environment. An atmosphere of adventure and exploration is all-pervasive - safaris are operated by visionary, quirky characters who balance a passion for the wild with the fierce dedication of bush entrepreneurs. Yet, Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is on the border shared with Zimbabwe and Zambia's charm and political stability is now recognised by savvy travellers. Victoria Falls and the Upper Zambezi are marvellous year round, but most of Zambia is 'closed' during the rainy season from January to March. The all-weather areas open in April and at this time, roads are remade into more remote areas, so that seasonal camps can re-open for the dry season from June to October. Victoria FallsThe Victoria Falls is a dramatic scenic contrast and a change of pace from the private game reserves. It is a sight not to be missed - the clouds of spray generated by this thunderous descent have resulted in a lush rain forest full of stunning wild flowers and the most spectacular views of the Falls are from the Zambian side of the gorge. Various activities are on offer including canoeing and languorous sunset river cruises on the tranquil Upper Zambezi above the falls. To gain an overall impression of the Falls, the helicopter 'Flight of Angels' is considered essential by some. For the more adventurous, micro light flights, bungee jumping and white water rafting are available. Game drives and horse riding are also offered in the Zambezi National Park to view elephant and buffalo. Game drives and horse riding are also offered in the Zambezi National Park to view elephant and buffalo and even the newly relocated rhino. Visitors can also sample elephant back safaris at Thorntree Lodge. The best time to view the Falls is probably between April/May and August when the spray is less so that the Falls are easier to capture on film and yet the flow of water is still impressive. As the dry season progresses, the volume of water over the Falls declines quite dramatically. Visitors in late September to December need to be aware of this and we recommend that you book a helicopter trip or a microlite flight over the Falls so that you can enjoy the full length of the Falls.
13 September 2007 Later this afternoon you proceed to the Day Activity Centre, right next to the hotel, where you are collected by UTC Tours at 16:00 for your Sundowner Cruise on the Zambezi River. The Zambezi's source is in the North Western Zambia and flows approximately 2800km to its mouth in Mozambique and into the warm Indian Ocean. The boat gentles makes its way upstream towards the Zambezi National Park, through riverine vegetation. Guests relax and enjoy excellent viewing of a variety of bird life, hippo and crocodile. The African Queen is a 5-star boat, a triple deck 70ft catamaran furnished in Rhodesian teak, beech wood and brass. Clients are transferred to the Royal Landing and board the boat for a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River including a selection of cocktails and iced drinks as well as freshly prepared light snacks. NB wines are NOT included. You return to the hotel after sunset and the rest of the evening is at leisure. The cruise is approximately 2 hours in length. Minimum 2 pax
14 September 2007 This morning you are collected from the hotel at 11:30 by UTC Tours and transferred to the border into Botswana and onto the Kasane Imigrations offices, arriving at 13:15. At 13:30 you are met by a representative from Ichobezi for your boat transfer to the Ichobezi Luxury Safariboat, embarking at 14:00, after clearing customs at the Namibian border post on Impalila Island. You have the following two nights on the Safariboat. Ichobezi Moli There is a way to experience the splendour of two very special rivers that is unsurpassed and unforgettable. The Ichobezi Moli has made the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers her very own piece of paradise and guests aboard her are privy to a very unique African traveling experience that promises ultimate luxury and unequaled natural beauty. 18 metres long, the Ichobezi Moli offers space, comfort and first-class service. She also delivers a constantly changing panorama that will keep you captivated and enthralled by the sights and wonders of this special corner of Africa. Cruising gracefully on the waterways of this diverse area, the Ichobezi Moli is unmatched in style, elegance and pure comfort Facilities:· Four large twin cabins – All beautifully decorated with the focal feature being the large sliding window that allows you your own personal view of the changing landscapes before you. All of these windows are fitted with protective screens to ensure maximum relaxation and each room has ample storage space. The cabins also have an en-suite bathroom, each tastefully fitted with a modern shower, toilet and hand basin. · Entertainment deck – This deck provides you with access to a spacious lounge and bar area that encourages you to take time-out and simply enjoy the view. This deck also has a relaxed open-air dining area where guests can enjoy superb meals prepared by a skillful chef in the full-size onboard kitchen. · Plunge pool – At the front of the entertainment deck, guests can cool off or simply soak up the African sun on deck chairs while enjoying an ice-cold beverage and the outstanding scenery. · Dedicated tender boats – The rear of the entertainment deck allows easy access to the smaller tender boats – twelve foot, forty horsepower vessels that accompany the Ichobezi Moli on all of her travels. These boats ensure that each guest has the freedom to partake in any excursions or activities that are best suited to their own personal needs.
16 September 2007 You disembark around 10:00 this morning and then Ichobezi will transfer you to Kasane Airport. At Kasane Airport you are met by a representative from Mack Air Charters and transferred by light charter flight to the Moremi Game Reserve. On arrival at the airstrip you are met by a representative from Camp Moremi and transferred via 4x4 vehicle to the camp for your three nights stay. Luggage allowanceThe luggage allowance is a maximum of 20kg per person in soft squashy bags including all hand luggage and camera equipment, and preferably closer to 15kg. So if you are travelling with heavy photographic equipment, this must be included in the 20kg luggage allowance. This ruling is very strictly enforced due to safety considerations. The main luggage is stored in a hold compartment either underneath or at the back of the plane. This space is limited and so each bag must not exceed certain dimensions. These maximum dimensions are a width of 25cm (10 inches); height of 30cm (12 inches) and length of 62cm (24 inches). The actual baggage compartment on light aircraft is only 25cm high so the pilots must be able to manipulate your bag into the compartment. If the bag is overstuffed, this becomes difficult and when it cannot be done, it results in frustration and embarrassment all round, not to mention delays at the airstrip while bags are repacked. Remember that all safari camps offer a complimentary laundry service in Botswana, and that the dress code is very casual. Please also note that these charter flights are 'seat in plane' charters which means that the size of plane used for your air transfer varies depending on how many clients are booked on that particular day. You may be in a small 4 seater plane or something much larger. We recommend taking air sickness pills at least one hour prior to the flight if you are susceptible to motion sickness. The charter flight may stop to pick up guests from more than one safari lodge so you may take off and land more than once during your flight. Camp MoremiCamp Moremi is shaded by giant ebony trees and overlooks the Xakanaxa Lagoon, in the heart of what is reputedly Africa's most beautiful reserve - the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. The camp offers a diversity of habitat and animal life, which is unrivalled in Botswana. Here where the Okavango meets up with the vast Kalahari desert, ancient Mopane forests, open grassland and seasonal floodplains have formed. Trained resident naturalist guides will share their knowledge and deep love of the wilderness with you on game drives where sightings of wild dog, cheetah, leopard, lion, elephants and buffalo are possible. The famous elevated Moremi Tree Lodge is the stunning focal point of this camp and houses the luxurious main lounge, a wildlife reference library, dining room and cocktail bar, all cooled overhead by fans. Camp Moremi accommodates only 22 safari guests in beautifully furnished East African-style tents, each with private adjacent facilities connected to the tent by an enclosed "lethaka" (reeded) courtyard accessed through a rear exit to the tent.ie the bathrooms are not completely en suite but your provacy is ensured. Other lodge facilities include a sundeck, plunge pool, covered boma (reeded dining enclosure) and an elevated game-viewing platform at the water's edge, affording magnificent views over the lagoon - the perfect spot for sundowners after the day's game viewing and activities. BotswanaBotswana is one of Africa's last pristine lands and offers its visitors beautiful scenery and prolific big game in equal measure. Most people know of the Okavango Delta, yet Botswana conjures up so many memorable images for those lucky enough to visit - the shimmering heat rising from the vast white salt pans of the Makgadikgadi pans; the flight of a fish eagle as it glides over the waterways of the delta; the majestic baobab trees rising out of the Kalahari grasslands; or the elephant family coming down to the Chobe River to drink as dusk falls. An enlightened programme of conservation in this stable country has meant that vast areas, one sixth of the country, remain a sanctuary for magnificent herds of game. The Moremi Wildlife ReserveThe Moremi is protected tribal land, which forms the eastern boundary of the Okavango Delta. It is often described as one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Africa. It combines mopane woodland and acacia forests, floodplains and lagoons and this great diversity of plant life attracts the abundance of animal life for which Moremi is so well known. It's particularly is famous for its predators, both of the mammal and feathered variety. Please note that night drives and armed game walks are not permitted here (given it is a National Park) but the superb quality of the game-viewing more than makes up for this. Game activities will be mostly land-based in the Moremi. The area was officially designated as a game reserve in 1965 and now it contains approximately twenty percent of the Okavango Delta within its boundaries. Chief's Island, the largest island in the delta, is located within the Moremi, stretching from the southern Okavango to the permanent waters near Mombo. It is an extension of the mainland and, because it is slightly higher than the general level of the Delta, it never floods. It is home to a vast number of animals who benefit from the Kalahari sandveld habitat with its close proximity to water. The arid interior of the island is covered by mopane woodlands and acacia thorn-scrub interspersed with clay pans. This is where the large resident buffalo herds of the Okavango are often to be found as they prefer to drink from the rain-filled pans and give preference to the sweeter grasses of the sandy areas rather than the coarser grasses of the floodplains. 19 September 2007 This morning you are transferred to the airstrip where you are collected by Mack Air Charters and transferred by light charter flight to Maun. At Maun Airport you board the flight to Johannesburg. Scheduled flight 1000A 1200N Botswana to Johannesburg On arrival at the OR Tambo (Johannesburg) Airport you proceed to the Arrivals Hall. Look out for the representative from the Airport Grand Hotel. They will be holding a name board with AIRPORT GRAND HOTEL WELCOMES and then you surname on it. They will then transfer you via shuttle bus to the hotel for your overnight stay.
20 September 2007 This morning you take the hotel shuttle bus back to the airport where you board the flight to Windhoek in Namibia. Scheduled flight 20 September: # Air Namibia # 703 745am/945am Johannesburg to Windhoek ******** *********RECONFIRM YOUR RETURN FLIGHT WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN WINDHOEK On arrival at Windhoek Airport you proceed through passport control to the luggage collection area and then through Customs to the Arrivals area. Look out for a representative from Sefofane Charters, they will be holding a name board with your surname on it. They will then transfer you via light charter flight to the airstrip at Sossusvlei. (Luggage allowance is strictly 12kg per person in soft bags) On arrival at the airstrip you are met by a representative from Kulala Wilderness Camp and transferred by 4x4 vehicle to the lodge for your two nights stay. Kulala Wilderness CampKulala Wilderness Camp is located on a 21 000 hectare private reserve of desert plains and rugged mountains with spectacular views of the stars over the Namib Desert. The camp is east-facing and built at the foot of a mountain. The main dining area, bar and reception are built from canvas with thatched roofing and are linked to the tented suites by means of elevated pathways. At night, lanterns light the main area. Accommodation is in the form of six en-suite 'Meru' styled tents, elevated on wooden decks. The interiors are simple yet comfortable and have solar-powered lighting, ceiling fans and hot water. The crystal clear water of the Kulala Tented Camp swimming pool is a relief from the midday temperatures. On the edge of the oldest desert in the world, game is sparse but fascinating. springbok, gemsbok, ostrich, bat-eared fox and aardwolf can all be viewed. Activities include 4x4 excursions to Sossusvlei, guided walks and nature drives both day and night. These drives take you out across the sparse landscape to explore the highest sand dunes in the world. Sossusvlei and the Namib DesertSossusvlei in the Namib Desert rivals a visit to Etosha as the highlight of a Namibian holiday. The Namib Desert is one of the oldest deserts in the world and can be divided into three parts: the vast northern gravel plains interrupted by occasional granite inselbergen (island mountains) between the Swakop and Kuiseb Rivers; the eastern Naukluft Mountains, sanctuary to the rare Hartmann's mountian zebra; and the seemingly endless dune series in the central and southern Namib. The Namib Naukluft Park covers nearly five million hectares of desert and is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa. It stretches from Luderitz northwards along the Namib coast to Swakopmund, a harsh tract of desert that is home to the gemsbok with its rapier-sharp horns, the sprawling Welwitschia and a multitude of toktokkie beetles and other creatures that are found nowhere else in the world. Also forming part of the park is Sandwich, a wetland of international importance, south of Walvis Bay. The first step towards protecting this fascinating desert was taken in 1907 when the gravel plains between the Kuiseb and the Swakop rivers were set aside as a conservation area by the German colonial government. SossusvleiSurrounded by towering, wavy crested dunes of reddish-orange sand, Sossusvlei is especially breathtaking in the early morning, when the dunes are transformed into explosions of colour by the first rays of the sun. The dunes in the Sossusvlei area reach heights of up to 325m above the surrounding land surface, and are among the highest in the world. The vlei (small lake) lies in the Tsauchab River that once flowed all the way to the sea, but the river lost its battle against the shifting dunes that eventually smothered it completely, about 55km from the coast. Only occasionally does the Tsauchab River flow strongly enough to reach the white clay pan of Sossusvlei and when it does, it is a magnificent sight. A visit to Sossusvlei This entails is a very early morning start to see the magnificent Sossusvlei dunes as the sun rises. The contrast of colours as the sun casts deep shadows on the dunes makes this a paradise for photographers. The Sossusvlei pan is some 65km into the Park along a good gravel road. The dunes rise up on either side of the road. Most of the 60km is negotiable with a 2X4 rental car but if you want to go on to the pan itself, the last 5km are only for 4x4 vehicles so you will have to either walk - have plenty of water and suitable footwear - or join a guided tour. However the nearest dunes are only a few hundred metres away from the tarred road and can be easily reached on foot. Take some time to actually walk up one of the dunes - it is surprisingly difficult! A dune called Dune 45 is situated close to the road and thus is a popular choice. The views from the top are worth the climb as you gaze out on the undulating dunes beyond. As you return to Sesriem a short detour to the Sesriem Canyon is worthwhile. The Tsauchab river flows across the arid Namib plains until, at Sesriem Canyon, it plunges unexpectedly into a narrow canyon. The canyon, up to 10m deep in places and about 2km long, was carved through layers of conglomerate between two and four million years ago. After the Tsauchab River has come down in flood, pools of water remain in the canyon for several months. To use this source of water, the local pioneering farmers and early travellers lowered a bucket tied to six ox hide thongs to the pools, hence the name Sesriem or 'six thongs'. From the car park above the canyon, a path leads down to the canyon floor, enabling visitors to explore this marvel of nature. As you walk down into the canyon, the various layers of gravel that were deposited on the Namib plains some 15 to 18 million years ago can be seen clearly. The different sizes of the stones and the thickness of various layers indicate the intensity with which the ancient rivers flowed. The whole excursion to Sossusvlei should take about three to four hours depending on whether you choose to climb up one of the dunes and how many photographs you take! Naukluft MountainsThis is also part of the Namib-Naukluft Park but very different terrain. It is an area of spectacular rugged mountains, deep ravines and crystal-clear pools for swimming. It is ideal walking country. The park is a sanctuary for many highlands game species, in particular the rare Hartmann's mountain zebra. This species is almost wholly restricted to western Namibia though it is closely related to the Cape Mountain zebra found in the western and southern Cape. There are also many species of antelope: klipspringer, kudu, gemsbok, common duiker and steenbok as well as a troop of baboons. Leopards are rare but are occasionally spotted by hikers. Bird watching here is usually more rewarding than in the Namib Desert due to the riverine habitat and permanent water pools. The Naukluft is the southern most place for some of the Namibian endemics (e.g. Herero chat, Ruppell's korhaan, white tails shrike and chestnut weaver) and the northern most spot for some of the Karoo species (e.g.. Karoo robin, cinnamon-breasted warbler and African black duck).
22 September 2007 This morning you are transferred to the airstrip where you are collected by Sefofane Charters and transferred by light aircraft to Windhoek Airport. (Luggage allowance is strictly 12kg per person in soft bags) At Windhoek Airport you board the flight to Johannesburg.
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