Start Planning A Perfect Luxury Africa Safari for 2021
International travel has come to an abrupt halt all over the world meaning we have been stuck in our homes for the past six months and we are all itching to get out there and travel again. With all certainty, we will travel again, and truth be told we all deserve an unforgettable vacation after this. When done sensitively and with an open mind, there is enormous value in planning a 2021 African luxury safari experience vacation now. You may not be able to jump on a plane right now but planning and booking your 2021 Africa safari is one of the best things you can do right now. Also, the dreaming and anticipation of looking forward to a safari is just as good for your soul as actually being there. Here we provide valuable reasons for you to consider Africa as your first-choice post-lockdown safari destination and why we highly recommend that you plan and book your 2021 Africa safari now. Opening Soon African Countries are Already Starting to Open for International Guests Africa has started to open their borders for both local and international travel, and the current situation in the countries where we book tours are as follows. As of 1 September 2020 Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Rwanda and Namibia are open for international travel, with country-specific safety measures put in place for each country for guests’ arrival and stay. South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Uganda and Mozambique’s borders still remain closed. However, domestic travel is already up and running in South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe, with selected airlines, including Emirates hoping to start flying to Harare, Zimbabwe early September. As infection rates continue their downward trend, we remain hopeful that South African borders will open by the end of 2020, followed by our regional neighbors, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique. Safety First African Countries and Cities receive Global Safe Travels Stamp The Luxury of Space in Nature Africa offers Wild, Untouched Destinations & Wide-Open Spaces Get away from the city and crowds and experience the luxury of space. Africa is perfect as it offers a wide range of wild, untouched destinations, wide-open spaces and secluded, luxury private lodging in pristine wilderness areas. Besides Africa being enormous and diverse it also offers a variety of meaningful and immersive life-changing experiences that vary from country to country and region to region. From extraordinary wildlife encounters to vast tracts of beautiful wilderness areas Africa offers the travelers of today the perfect opportunity to disconnect in order to reconnect – with themselves, with nature and with their families, while also getting to know Africa’s beautiful people, heritage and culture. Africa’s lodges embody the idea of space and seclusion, with most wilderness-based lodges offering no more than 12 rooms each, allowing only 4-6 people per game drive vehicle as well as comfortable dining options in well-ventilated inside and outside dining areas. However, to experience true luxury, you do not have to stay at a five-star lodge. Luxury in Africa is all about nature and reconnecting with its beauty, and like they say, nature heals. What becomes the real luxury is the experience of that moment in time. Especially when you see and smell the animals and bushveld and become part of their world. Or, when you hear a lion roar at night, see an African sunrise and sunset from a boat on the Zambezi River, or stand in the spray alongside the mighty Victoria Falls. Space is Filling up Fast Everyone is Postponing their 2020 Safaris to 2021 Very Affordable Rates Freeze, Special Deals & Favorable Exchange Rates Booking Peace of Mind Enjoy more Flexible Booking Terms Speak to the Experts in Tailored & Personalized Luxury Africa Safaris Now is the perfect time to plan and book your 2021 Africa safari, so contact us, the experts in tailored and personalized luxury Africa safaris, and let us welcome you (back) to magical Africa soon!
Why Jewel Of Africa Safaris Is Your Best Choice In African Safari Travel
For almost 20 years we have built a reputation as one of Africa’s finest guided safari and tour operators and this is not without reason. We love what we do! We are a boutique, family-owned company with a boutique team of safari and tour experts. South Africa is our home and we are passionate about Africa and the service we provide. We love the country, its rich heritage and culture and nothing gives us more pleasure than to introduce travellers to this incredible place, its precious wildlife and its proud people. Exceptional Experiences We offer an amazing range of experiences, from the thrill of the safari, to the serenity of breath-taking scenic panoramas, to the adrenalin rush of adventure safaris and activities of every kind. We ensure that every experience that we arrange, and host is not only a memorable one, but a time of relaxation, knowing that every aspect of your experience is being handled by professionals. The Full A To Z Safari Package Combined with Safety and Peace Of Mind We offer a full A to Z of safari and tour services, including booking of local flights and transfers and we are unwavering in our service and support before, during and after your guided safari or tour. We are sticklers for absolute compliance to all regulations surrounding safe travel. We have professional guides and drivers who are first aid certified. We are bonded with SATSA (underwritten by Lloyds of London) meaning that your holiday investment is secure with us. We also carry SATIB General Public Liability Insurance up to ZAR 30mil (US$3 mil) and Professional Indemnity Insurance, guaranteeing you peace of mind. Our SATSA member no is 2437 and we adhere to a strict code of conduct. Safety is assured at every level and at all times. Special attention to even the smallest detail ensures that each journey is of the highest safety and quality. All vehicles are fully authorised & insured to carry international tourists. Fantastic Destinations We offer a wide range of desirable destinations within Southern Africa and East Africa, including Kenya and Uganda. Africa is home so our expert team of guides are on the ground, not sitting in an office somewhere making bookings for places we don’t personally know or have not travelled to and experienced. We are well travelled within these destinations and know where the best places are to go and what to experience. We have travelled personally to every country that can be viewed in our tour portfolio and we can offer expert advice and insights. Personalized Service and Tailor-Made Travel Probably what we are most famous for and sought after for is the flexibility we have to arrange personalized and customized tour itineraries, because every client’s needs and requirements are unique. Sure, we have a great range of packages and these are carefully chosen, but we work with your time availability, budget and of course what you really want to see and do, to take you off the beaten track within your own schedule. We tailor make every experience, from families to honeymooners, groups and retirees wanting to fulfil their bucket list, we create it all exactly as you want it. Our portfolio of partner travel agencies, ground crews, tour guides, lodges and hotels in every destination are all carefully chosen and vetted and we also have an expert team of travel agents. Communication is quick and effortless via phone-calls, text messages and email, with a quick turnaround time on your queries. There are no language barriers either, as we speak English, Dutch and German – and we can teach you Afrikaans as well! Jewel of Africa Safaris is driven by the opportunity and the passion we genuinely feel to make your dream safari a reality. This has been reflected and attested to over and over again in many 5 Star traveller review ratings on Trip Advisor, Google, Safari Bookings and Zicasso that tell you exactly why Jewel of Africa Safaris is your best choice in travel!
Africa’s Green Season Safari Spectacular: Botswana’s Zebra Migration
As the national animal of Botswana, the Plains zebra (or Burchell’s zebra) is regarded as an important and much-loved species in this Southern African country. Interestingly, two zebras adorn the Botswana coat of arms, showcasing this animal as a symbol of national unity. In Botswana, these animals are part of an intriguing, but much less well-known annual migration in search of greener pastures. As the second largest zebra migration in the world this is just one of the many reasons to visit this country in the summer, better known as the green season. During a Big 5 and Wildlife Safari, if you visit the right areas at the right time of the year, you can experience this spectacle for yourself. The Second Largest Zebra Migration in the World In the mid-2000s wildlife researchers noticed that the zebra herds were occupying certain areas of land at certain times of the year, and that they were covering vast distances across the Kalahari Desert to do so. This meant that the zebras were migrating, a spectacle that has gone by largely unnoticed until then. The nomadic habits of the Burchell’s zebra in Botswana were not properly understood until tracking devices were used in a study by the conservation group Elephants Without Borders in 2012. This mass zebra migration occurs twice a year. They first move from north to south and return the same way. They move south as the seasons change and the rainfall starts, always in search of greener land. The dry season in Botswana runs from April to October, while the wet season (or green season) occurs from November to March. During the migration, the animals cover huge areas of land, up to 300 miles (approximately 500 kilometres), making this the longest migration in Africa. Recent figures suggest that up to 30 000 zebras migrate at any one time, making this the largest migration in Southern Africa, and the second largest migration in the world. The Route Of The Zebra Migration During the dry season, from May to November the zebra herds will be found in the wetlands in the north of Botswana, where plenty of water is available. As the dry season comes to an end and the rains start making their appearance around the end of November, the zebra will begin the long trek from the north to the south, following ancient migratory routes. After crossing the plains of the Kalahari Desert, they enter the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in January. This area is usually barren and lifeless in the dry season but will now burst with vegetation. Here they will spend the rest of the rainy season, before making their way back north again at the end of March. When and Where to Experience the Migration The zebra migration starts in the Chobe National Park in the north and end in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in the south. The best time to witness this amazing spectacle while on safari is in the summer off-season, or green season, when most tourists stay away from Botswana. However, if you do not mind some rain you can have the incredible opportunity to see the zebra herds moving across this vast land by the hundreds. Your best option is to head south towards the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The best time to be here is in December-January or March-April when the zebra will be arriving or leaving this area. When the rains begin in the Makgadikgadi Pans, the usually salty, barren and lifeless land begins to be revitalised. The edge of the pans fill with water and become muddy and sludgy. By the time the zebra arrives in December, the salt pans are prime grazing land. And with the zebra, come all manner of predators and birds to temporarily populate this desert region with a vibrant array of life. Experiencing the Migration in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park The empty plains of the Makgadikgadi Pans offer wide, open views of the surrounding landscape, making tracking and spotting the herds easier than in the dense river deltas to the north. You might even witness herds of zebra being stalked by the large predators that chase them. It is common to see lion, leopards and cheetahs bounding across the salt pans at this time of year in chase of their prey. This time of the year travel can be unpredictable, so be prepared for wet and muddy weather. For this reason, it’s best to travel with a guide or to arrange a fly-in luxury Botswana safari at one of the best fully-serviced luxury lodges to ensure that you have access to the best local knowledge of the area and to increase your chance of seeing the most zebras and other wildlife. Come and See The Zebra Migration in Botswana If you would like to witness this wildlife spectacle for yourself, contact Jewel of Africa Safaris to customize a more affordable green-season luxury Botswana safari, which incorporates the Makgadikgadi Pans with other destinations in Botswana or its neighbouring countries.
Top Luxury Safari Lodges Of Kruger National Park, South Africa In 2020
The iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is internationally famed for its magnificent wildlife sightings. Here you can experience the thrill of driving in an open vehicle with the wind in your hair, as you seek to spot Africa’s ‘Big 5’ – Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino and the elusive Leopard. They are all there and the joy of the safari is unmatched by any international vacationing experience. A lessor known feature of the park, in international terms, is the many excellent lodges and luxury camps that are dotted all over the park, many in private game reserves which are within the boundaries of the greater Kruger. Being one of Africa’s premier luxury safari operators, we need to book the very best for our esteemed clients and so this article turns the spotlight on a handful of the top accommodation establishments situated in the Greater Kruger Park right now. These are all unique, different and award winning 5 star lodges. These are the top luxury safari lodges in Kruger National Park for 2020. Singita Lebombo – Kruger National Park This beautiful Afro- contemporary lodge has bold modern architecture and a stunning, massive split swimming pool in the main communal area. Filled with light and ordered structures, this lodge is where sculpture meets organic – a magnificent landmark in Singita’s privately-leased concession. The aforementioned communal area is multi-level and contains a library for the studious, a multi-media room, wine studio and rooftop viewing area. Add to this an interactive kitchen, espresso bar and deli and you have a great place to chill between game drives. A celebration of cutting-edge design, Singita Lebombo comprises 13 luxury suites and even one private-use villa that give guests a front row seat to the Kruger National Park. Rattray’s Camp – Mala Mala Private Game Reserve This is one of the most elegant and famous ‘camp’ style luxury accommodation offers available to those who visit the Kruger Park. It has a sort of humble opulence and is a place so romantically appointed that it is a favourite with honeymooners. It offers both exclusivity and unrivalled game viewing. Each spacious camp style room is called a ‘Khaya’ (the Zulu word for ‘home) and offers great views of the Sand River where a myriad of wildlife can be viewed whilst you’re taking a dip in your magnificent private plunge pool, or enjoying sundowners on the deck. The communal area of the camp consists of a gym with a steam room, an infinity swimming pool, a massage service, a library …and much more. A great place to thrill to Africa’s wildlife as you simply relax. Tinga Lodge – Lion Sands Game Private Reserve Situated on the banks of the beautiful Sabi River and covering both a part of the Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, this excellent lodge provides spectacular views of the river and has wildlife sightings galore. What is particularly exciting is that it makes claim to being the area with the highest concentration of leopard in Africa, the most difficult of all big game to spot. The Tinga lodge itself however is all about winding down at the end of the day at the side of the huge infinity pool, or in the privacy of your own suite in your very own plunge pool! There are nine suites in total and also the one two bedroomed Hi’Nkweni private villa. Royal Malewane – Thornybush Game Private Reserve Rated as one of the top 20 Game reserves in the World, boasting exceptional game viewing experiences, the Royal Malewane, is located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve on the Western border of The Greater Kruger National Park. It is like stepping out of the history books, when the traditional royal safari was seeped in luxury. Another favourite with Honeymooners, it exudes the romance and the beauty of a bygone age, whilst offering every modern comfort. From the award-winning spa to sumptuous cuisine, this is sublime personalised luxury and testimony to this is that there are only six Luxury Suites, two Royal Suites and ‘Africa House’ – an exclusive use bush villa with six bedrooms. Kings Camp – Timbavati Private Game Reserve Also offering sublime luxury with the feeling of a bygone era, facing an open savanna plain with a waterhole, which is frequented by a wide variety of wildlife both day and night, is the ultra-luxurious Kings camp situated in the Timbavati private game reserve. The accommodations are eye-popping and impressively appointed. Seven spacious Luxury and Family Suites and two exquisite Honeymoon Suites are equipped with air-conditioning, Victorian ball-and-claw bath, indoor and outdoor double shower and a private verandah. Each Honeymoon Suite also has a private verandah with a large plunge pool overlooking the African bush – and the Waterbuck Private Camp has a 4 bedroomed villa with its own villa attendant and chef to take care of your every need! Go There with The Best in Luxury Safari Tour Operators Ensure that you get the best that these excellent lodges can offer by being accompanied by Jewel of Africa safaris, the luxury safari tour operators who offer the most personalised service and most flexible tour packages, many designed especially for honeymoon couples. Contact us to learn more and ensure that your luxury safari experience to the Kruger Park and surrounds includes the top luxury safari lodges of Kruger National Park for 2020!
Experience Your First Luxury Botswana Safari
When planning your first luxury African safari, Botswana needs to be at the top of your list. Situated in Southern Africa and bordering South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, it boasts with such a variety of different landscapes and destinations and truly offers the best luxury wilderness safari experience in Africa. Where To Go On Your First Luxury Botswana Safari As a first-time Botswana safari experience, we recommend you visit the Chobe National Park, Savute region, the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Pans during a 12 Day Luxury Botswana Safari for First-Timers. This private, all-inclusive luxury safari offers fine accommodation, effortless travelling from North to South and incredibly scenic destinations combined with unrivalled land-and water-based game viewing for an all-in-one unforgettable Botswana safari experience with Jewel of Africa Safaris. Map of Botswana Chobe – Africa’s River of Elephants The town of Kasane, situated on the banks of the majestic Chobe River is your gateway to Botswana’s Chobe National Park.For the next 2 nights, stay in comfort in a large, air-conditioned luxury room or suite at Chobe Game Lodge. Each room offers exceptional views of the majestic Chobe River which supports the world’s densest population of elephants, buffalo and zebra. (add photo). Next, head to the terrace restaurant for a welcoming lunch or afternoon tea, while enjoying direct views onto the river and its wildlife – make sure to bring your binoculars with you as you don’t want to miss out on anything! You will soon be itching to go and explore this beautiful wilderness area further. The combination of land and water-based safaris is one of Chobe’s main attractions, as it provides you with the opportunity to enjoy Chobe’s rich animal and bird life from two completely different perspectives. Your choice of a first guided safari activity is either a game drive in open 4×4 vehicle in the Chobe National Park (add photo), or a boat cruise on the Chobe River (add photo). These are available twice daily, in both the morning and afternoon. The Park itself is biologically diverse and your knowledgeable guide will drive through rolling grass plains, dusty mopane woodlands and lush flood plains filled with a variety of wildlife species. Boat cruises bring you closer to swimming elephants, grunting hippo’s, and lurking crocodiles, as well as a variety of interesting water birds. You may even spot the rare red lechwe, or the indigenous Chobe bushbuck. A sunset river cruise is also the perfect way to end the day, with the setting sun creating the perfect backdrop for stunning wildlife photography. Quick facts about your stay in Chobe: Location: Chobe National Park is situated in northern Botswana, on the Chobe River How to get there: Via the town of Kasane, Botswana or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Accommodation: Chobe Game Lodge offers air-conditioned luxury river-facing, twin, double and family en suite rooms and suites. Accommodation is fully inclusive of all meals and drinks. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner Lodge facilities: Swimming pool, gym, library, spa, bar and laundry service Safari activities: Daily morning and afternoon game drives and boat cruises. Game-viewing highlights: Large herds ofelephants and buffalo, plus lion, leopard, cheetah, spotted hyaena, giraffe, plains zebra, sable, reedbuck, lechwe Birding highlights: 450+ bird species with migratory bird species arriving from November to April Savute – Botswana’s Predator Haven A quick charter flight takes you to Savute, Botswana’s premier game-viewing conservancy, situated in the western reaches of central Chobe National Park. On arrival, you will soon realize that Savute is uniquely different from the Chobe riverfront in both ambience and landscapes and is truly wild and authentic. Here you will find mostly woodland habitat, with pockets of tumbling kopjes. The Savute Marsh offers a ghostly, open landscape of dust, striking dead trees and isolated water holes. The now-flowing Savute Channel, dry for decades, boasts with all kinds of aquatic animals and birds. For the next 3 nights, you will stay along this wildlife-rich channel at the private Savute Safari Lodge in beautifully furnished thatched chalets offering wide-angle views of the channel and an active waterhole in front of camp. During daily morning and afternoon game drives you can expect dramatic sightings of Savute’s resident predators, especially its large lion, wild dog, and spotted hyena populations. Driving through the woodland areas you may encounter herds of antelope and buffalo, while the permanent waterholes, which is usually a good place to stop for a mid-morning coffee break, attract elephants all year-round. When you visit in summer, besides the high animal traffic you may also witness the highly recommended local zebra migration, as well as the influx of migrating bird species. Quick facts about your stay in Savute: Location: Western Chobe, near the Savute Channel How to get there: By light aircraft charter flight from Kasane or Maun Accommodation: Savute Safari Lodge offers luxury, thatched wood and glass suites. Accommodation is fully inclusive of all meals and drinks. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner Lodge facilities: Lounge, bar, gym, library, swimming pool, laundry service Safari activities: Daily morning and afternoon game drives in open 4×4 vehicles. Game-viewing highlights: Elephants, lion, spotted hyaena, wild dog, zebra migration in summer Birding highlights: 450+ bird species, with migratory bird species arriving from November to April Okavango Delta – A True Wildlife Oasis The Okavango Delta, a World Heritage Site, is surely one of the most renowned wilderness safari areas in Botswana and is not to be missed. Your charter flight from Savute takes you over and deeper into this vast, watery maze of deep lagoons, large lakes and meandering channels with islands of palm trees and riverine forests in-between. The small, remote lodge airstrip on Nxaragha Island beckons from above, and on landing, you are welcomed by your lodge host for your quick drive to camp. The secluded Camp Okavango, a hidden treasure, is situated in the heart of the permanent Okavango Delta on its own island, surrounded by the waters of the Delta. The luxury lodge offers beautiful views over the Delta
Botswana’s Top Luxury Safari Lodges 2020
Botswana offers amazing contrasts, scenic splendor, and with around 40% of its land devoted to wildlife preservation, luxury African safari lovers can savor some of the finest game viewing in the world. It also subsequently offers a range of top-rated luxury safari lodges. As premier rated tour operators for Southern Africa luxury safaris, here is our choice of the top luxury safari lodges in Botswana for 2020. Mashatu Private Game Reserve, Tuli Block: Mashatu Euphorbia Villas Opening in June 2020, Euphorbia Villasis the new flagship lodge of the privately owned, Mashatu Game Reserve, the Land of the Giants. This is a unique world-class eco-lodge, which combines sublime luxury with conservation and sustainability. As its name suggests, 8 eco-friendly villas are tucked away within a euphorbia forest, high up on a cliff face, with each villa offering superb views of the Majale River and endless, rolling plains below. The lodge prides itself on its green energy practices, including the use of solar energy, plus state-of-the-art water treatment and recycling systems. Guests can look forward to private plunge-pools, indoor and outdoor showers, elegant and dramatic boma dining experiences and pure exclusivity with only 4 guests allowed per safari vehicle. Apart from luxury game-drive safaris Mashatu Euphorbia Villas also offer mountain biking, walking, horseback riding and access to the renowned underground photographic hide. Central Kalahari Game Reserve: Kalahari Plains Camp The classic lodge is situated in a remote part of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the largest conservation area in Botswana. Kalahari Plains Camp is ideally situated offering views of an immense pan with an endless horizon and clear skies above. The solar-powered luxury camp offers only eight comfortable, insulated canvas rooms with a unique sleep-out platform above each from which to enjoy the Milky Way while being lulled to sleep by the sounds of Africa. Especially after the summer rains, guests can appreciate viewing large herds of springbok and gemsbok, closely followed by the legendary Kalahari black-maned lions, high concentrations of cheetah as well as leopard. Alternatively, book a guided walk with the local San bushmen to learn more about their ancient culture and lifestyle. Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: Jack’s Camp Jack’s Camp, reopening after a refreshing refurbishment in May 2020, is as rustic as it is luxurious and situated in one of Botswana’s most renowned desert-wildlife areas, the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. Surrounded by salt pans and endless horizons the camp is reminiscent of a traditional East Africa 1940s safari camp. Each of the 10 solar-powered canvas tents will now be double in size, more spacious and stylish, containing beautiful textiles from all over the world. Wood-burning stoves and overhead cooling systems will make for a more comfortable tented stay in both winter and summer. Each enlarged veranda will also boast with a private plunge pool for your ultimate comfort and relaxation during those hot afternoons. The camp offers a wide variety of unique and exciting safari activities, including quad-biking, San bushmen walks, desert game drives, meerkat safaris and horse-riding. This unique environment is the ideal place to see desert-adapted wildlife such as brown hyena, oryx, Kalahari lion and, after dark, aardvark, porcupine, honey badger and bat eared fox. Moremi Game Reserve: Mombo Camp The premier Mombo Camp is situated on the largest island, Chief’s Island, in the Moremi Game Reserve, within the Okavango Delta ecosystem. Often regarded as the finest luxury safari camp in Africa, Mombo offers guests eight very spacious luxury tents under shady trees, with sweeping views over an Okavango Delta floodplain, teeming with wildlife. The lounge, separate bedroom and bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, and bathtub with copper and brass fittings, all contribute to an atmosphere of pure rustic luxury. The Mombo Concession, also referred to as the predator capital of Africa, hosts phenomenal concentrations of the Big Five, especially lion and leopard. The camp itself celebrates its conservation purpose and success, playing a vital role in successful rhino reintroduction projects in this Botswana wilderness. Although you may not need to leave the comfort of the camp to see something spectacular, twice daily game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles allow guests the opportunity to view incredible wildlife ranging from large herds of elephant, zebra and buffalo to lion, leopards, wild dogs, spotted hyena and cheetahs. Okavango Delta: Jao Camp The exclusive Jao Camp is situated in the watery wilderness of the Okavango Delta, surrounded by riverine forests and large floodplains with prolific wildlife. The luxury camp (rebuilt in 2019) showcases a fresh and contemporary design with the main area elevated into the tree canopy. Luxury accommodation is offered in two exclusive villas and five suites, all with private plunge pools, lounge and dining areas and en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers. The villas accommodate four people each in two identical guest rooms, which share a main area, and your villa stay is inclusive of a private vehicle, guide, chef, and butler. Always committed to the environment and minimizing its footprint, Jao ensures your comfort by innovative insulation with gauze and glass panels allowing natural light and the outside in. The suites and villas are cooled in summer and heated in winter using the latest innovative, energy-efficient products. This is one of the top land- and water-based camps in the Delta, with both traditional mokoro adventures, and boat cruises on offer. A definite plus is the chance to experience morning, afternoon, AND night drives at Jao. Full day game drives, with a picnic lunch are also offered on the nearby Hunda Island. In-between all the activities, you can spend some time relaxing at the Jao Spa or gain further knowledge at the new Jao Museum. Savute Region, Western Chobe: Savute Safari Lodge The Savute Channel, stretching from the Linyanti River all the way to Savute Marsh, havepumped life into this western section of Chobe National Park for thousands of years.Situated along this renowned Channel, the luxurious and private Savute Safari Lodge offersaccommodation in eleven thatched, beautifully furnished chalets and one family room.
Where Water is Life: The Return of Floodwaters in the Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is situated in northern Botswana and forms part of the Kalahari Desert. This ‘Jewel of the Kalahari’ unlike other famous deltas, never reaches the sea. This vast, inland river delta’s yearly ebb and flow is mostly dependent on rain falling 1 600 kilometres upstream in the wet highlands of Angola. The True Source of The Okavango In Angola, streams and smaller rivers in the catchment of the Okavango’s two major tributaries – the Cubango and Cuito – are fed by summer rains falling between October and April, peaking between December and March when no less than 700 mm of rain typically saturates the ground and swells the rivers. From here the Cubango flows south through Namibia away from the sea. It forms part of the border between Angola and Namibia (as the Kavango River), and then flows into Botswana, where the river becomes known as the Okavango River. Yearly Arrival of The Floodwaters Due to the shallow gradient of the land and the swamp vegetation slowing the water down, the flood travels very slowly at only one kilometre a day and it takes months for the flow of water to reach the actual Okavango Delta. From March the flood usually arrives into the northern reaches of the Okavango Delta making its way steadily down reaching many camps only sometime in May, June, or possibly early July, depending on their precise location, reaching its peak sometime in August. When the floodwaters arrive in the Okavango, the main channels of the delta weave their way around small and large islands of lush grasslands, reed beds, palm groves and mopane forests, creating a green oasis for all creatures that call this place their home. The largest of these islands, Chief’s Island (70 kilometres/44 miles long), is whereto much of the delta’s wildlife retreats as water levels rise. As such, the island is home to what could be the richest concentration of wildlife in Botswana. What to Expect in 2020 The excellent rains that have fallen in Angola these past months has resulted in the water levels in the Okavango River rapidly rising with a lot more still to come. This year’s flood levels are at their highest at this time of year for at least the past 5 years. Coupled with late rains, the arrival of the 2020 inundation brings some very welcome relief to northern Botswana, which has been struggling in 2019 due to low rainfall and drought. The flood reached its peak at Rundu in Namibia at the beginning of March 2020 and the waters have already begun to subside. In Shakawe in northern Botswana the river has burst its banks and inundated vast areas of floodplain. As the river widens the amplitude of the flood decreases from a rise in ~4m at Rundu down to a rise of only ~1m at Guma Lagoon where it enters the alluvial fan of the Okavango Delta. Figure 1: Level of the Okavango River as measured in Rundu. Source: Okavango Research Institute Over the past few weeks, the waters have begun to rise in numerous protected areas in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Water has been steadily flowing in, filling up dry riverbeds and floodplains around many of the lodges found here. This unique natural spectacle will not be seen in person by many of our guests during the peak season this year, but the Okavango Delta wilderness will surely be rejuvenated and revived when travel restrictions are lifted, and guests can return to this beautiful wilderness area. The Magic of the Okavango Delta You may wonder, what is so special about the Okavango Delta? The Okavango Delta is world renowned for its wonderful winding waterways and its vast wilderness filled with some of Africa’s enigmatic wildlife and most elusive bird life. At its widest point the delta’s fan is 170km wide and between July and September over 200,000 animals migrate from the desert to this natural oasis. Lion, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog share the floodplains with large herds of elephant and buffalo. Adapted for a life in and out of water, the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga antelope are found in this watery wilderness. Your experienced guides will accompany you on daily game drives to see all these animals and much more. More than 400 bird species have been recorded in the delta making this a birdwatcher’s paradise. With a constant water presence, this is a prime birding destination, especially for waders and other water-loving species. Silently gliding through the narrow channels in a mokoro (dugout canoe) is a great way to get close to many bird species, such as the Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana and African Fish Eagle. One of the rare bird species to look out for in the Delta is the Pel’s Fishing Owl and another is the critically endangered Wattled Crane. Situated in the Eastern Delta, the Moremi Game Reserve is another excellent safari destination. The Reserve is one of the most spectacular wildlife conservancies in Botswana, where an abundance of wildlife moves around freely. The unique landscape features a unique mix of dry ecosystems as well as wetlands. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETwLXB8AlBw Source: Getaway – The Okavango River rages Make Your Okavango Delta Safari a Reality If you want to see and experience the magic of the (flood)waters of the Okavango Delta yourself, contact the experts at Jewel of Africa Safaris today and we will assist you in planning your personalized Okavango Delta safari. This can easily be combined with other Botswana safari destinations for an all-in-one luxury African safari experience.
10 Reasons to Book a Okavango Delta Botswana Safari
Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places to be in Africa and it is really one of the most fascinating places too. Here we give you 10 reasons to book a safari to the Okavango Delta. 1. One of The World’s Largest Deltas The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland deltas. Most river deltas lead to an ocean, but the Okavango River sprawls out onto open land, which floods the savanna creating this unique and always changing inland delta. 2. A UNESCO World Heritage Site On 22 June 2014, Botswana’s Okavango Delta was proclaimed the 1,000th UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apparently, the decision was based on the fact that the delta is one of the few major delta systems that doesn’t flow into the ocean. 3. An Island Paradise There are over 150,000 smallish islands in the delta, but some as big as 10km long. The largest island is Chief’s Island, a whopping 70km long and 14km wide! The delta swells to almost three times in size between the winter months of March and August when the floodwaters arrive from Angola. It fluctuates at that time from between 6,000 to approximately 15,000 square kilometers. 4. A Premier Wildlife Area Deemed one of the world’s premier wildlife areas Botswana’s Okavango Delta is home to a range of species of African wildlife, inhabiting both the Moremi Game Reserve and the rest of the Delta. Among these are lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant, wild dog, cheetah, rhino, hippo, giraffe, spotted and brown hyaena and various types of antelope. Unique antelope species to see here include the water-adapted lechwe, sitatunga, roan and sable antelope and topi. During the dry season, around 260,000 mammals congregate in and around the delta! Around 30 amphibians have been recorded in the Delta plus 60-odd reptiles and around 70 species of fish. 5. The Birdlife is Exquisite With more than 500 types of birds living in these wetlands this is a renowned birding paradise. Commonly spotted birds include the African fish eagle, the lilac-breasted roller and the Hamerkop. The Pel’s Fishing Owl is a favorite rarity and the world’s only fish-eating owl. 6. Unique Game-Viewing And Bird-Viewing From a Mekoro Birds and a lot of the wildlife are best spotted whilst taking a leisurely cruise in a mekoro. Invented and used by the early Bushmen inhabitants, the mekoro is a traditional dug-out canoe. Expert guides will skirt around the pods of hippos, as you silently soak in one of the world’s last great open-air aviaries. 7. It Is Truly Wild and Free One of the reasons for the popularity of the delta is that it is unspoiled and under-commercialized to a large extent. The numbers of tourists and camps in the area are controlled by the Botswana government, lessening the chance of over commercialization and the wildlife being disrupted by too many safari vehicles, boats and mokoros. 8. Home to Five Ethnic Tribes The Okavango Delta is home to five ethnic groups – the Hambukushu, Dceriku, Wayeyi, Anikhwe and Bugakhwe tribes, who use the area for fishing, growing crops and hunting. They live on the eastern side of the Delta in the Moremi Game Reserve. 9. One Of The Natural Wonders Of Africa In 2013, a year before it was declared a world heritage site, the Delta was declared one of the seven natural wonders of Africa! It stands proudly and rightfully amongst the other spectacular natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater, the great Serengeti migration, the River Nile, Mount Kilimanjaro, Table Mountain, the Red Sea coral reef and the Sahara Desert. 10. It Is Home to Those Threatened With Extinction Black and white rhino, wild dogs, lions and several other species of animals are facing extinction and the Okavango delta offers one of the safest havens for them. It relies heavily on the support of international and local tourism though, so please support it and experience the vacation of a lifetime when you do. Jewel of Africa Safaris offers client-focused Botswana and Okavango Delta itineraries, tailored to your safari specifications. We are a boutique family– run business, built on professional service and a love for Africa, its precious wildlife and its proud people and heritage. Visit our Africa Guide for more up-to-date advice, news, inspiration and tips from the road to help you plan your next safari.
5 Outstanding Africa Safari Destinations 2020
There are a multitude of outstanding wildlife conservancies, better known as ‘National Parks,’ in Africa and they all have something uniquely different to offer. What they all have in common however, is that they are home to our wildlife and bird populations and therefore are precious conservation areas that make a significant contribution to Africa’s proud heritage and economy. Be assured that it is primarily through the support and assistance of our international tourists that many of them survive, so we, as one of Africa’s preferred tour operators appreciate your visits to any of these areas. We do however like to advise our esteemed travellers on what we believe to be currently the very best of these African Safari experiences. So, without further ado, here are our choice of the Top 5 Destinations To Visit In Africa While On Safari In 2020. 1. Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve. Botswana. This iconic Botswana destination is so superb and unique that it is already world renowned. Botswana itself has just been voted in a major poll amongst experienced reviewers as ‘Africa’s best rated Safari country in Africa for 2020’ and this is in no small measure due to the magnificence and huge popularity of the Okavango Delta. A maze of sparkling lagoons, meandering channels and overgrown islands teeming with wildlife, Botswana’s Okavango Delta lies like a sparkling jewel at the heart of the Kalahari Desert. Known as “the river that never finds the sea”, crystal clear channels spread over the thirst lands of the Kalahari with their papyrus-fringed banks and fertile floating islands. Adapted for a life in and out of water, the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga antelope are found in this watery wilderness. Lion, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog share the floodplains with large herds of elephant and buffalo. Furthermore, found within the Okavango Delta, the Moremi Game Reserve is one of the most spectacular wildlife conservancies in Botswana, where an abundance of wildlife moves around freely. The unique landscape features a unique mix of dry ecosystems as well as wetlands. Among the roamers of the bush are the Big Five, but this is also a hotspot for a profusion of unique bird species. A range of accommodation options cater for everyone, including mobile safari camps and tented camps to luxury as well exclusive high-end lodges, but you are sure to be spoiled by high levels of service and hospitality and amazing dining experiences wherever you stay. The Okavango Delta and the Moremi Game Reserve offer the unique experience of viewing wildlife and birdlife from the tranquil winding waters of the delta, or on land from a safari 4×4 vehicle. Your mode of transport in the Delta is small boat or a mokoro (dugout canoe), propelled by a knowledgeable guide who brings you closer to the wildlife action. 2. MalaMala Game Reserve. South Africa. The MalaMala Game Reserve, an award-winning Big 5 private game reserve is one of the largest private game reserves in South Africa. It covers 13 300ha (33 000 acres) and shares a 19km (12 mile) unfenced boundary with the world-renowned Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Situated directly on the Sand River in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, guests can expect luxury accommodation in any of the three lodges, excellent service and hospitality, gourmet dining, and incredible wildlife experiences during daily game drives (in open 4×4 vehicles) and nature walks. MalaMala boasts with the finest and most consistent Big 5 game viewing in Africa, especially lion and leopard. The perennial river acts as a magnet for animals in this pristine wildlife area and is the foundation of MalaMala’s unrivalled game viewing and wildlife experience. Especially interesting is that every pride of lion and individual leopard you see here is known to the rangers, making each sighting that much more personal and intimate. The wildlife photographic opportunities are also unsurpassed, as ‘close up and personal’ moments can be found around every corner. At every thrilling sighting your ranger will provide you with fascinating insights into the habits of these creatures of the veld. 3. South Luangwa National Park. Zambia. North of South Africa, bordering Zimbabwe, lies Zambia, which also plays host to the world wonder, Victoria Falls (via the town of Livingstone). Eastern Zambia offers you another superb safari destination – South Luangwa National Park. This Park is situated in the Luangwa River valley and is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary, maybe one of its greatest. The river and its lagoons are home to a large population of hippo and crocodile and provides a lifeline for a diverse habitat and wildlife, supporting more than 60 species of mammals and over 400 species of birds – a dream come true for birdwatchers. The Park supports a strong population of the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra, as well as vast herds of elephants and Cape buffaloes. The density of leopards is among the highest in the world, although spotting these nocturnal creatures can be tricky. All sorts of antelopes abound – impala are ubiquitous, the puku — rarely seen outside Zambia — is almost as common and there are plenty of waterbucks and bushbucks too. Thanks to its inaccessible location, South Luangwa manages to combine immense density of wildlife with limited visitor numbers. This excellent wildlife area has its own claims to fame because of its unique walking safaris and its excellent night game drives. Some walks are even conducted over a couple of days with camp stops overnight. 4. Mana Pools National Park. Zimbabwe. Situated in the northern region of Zimbabwe, on the southern banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wildlife-rich, biodiverse wilderness area. The Park is far away from any human settlement and very remote. This is wild Africa, a place for the adventurous, where you really can go ‘off the beaten track’ and enjoy both land and water-based safari experiences. What makes this place so unique is that activities on offer not only include guided walking safaris, but also canoeing safaris on the Zambezi.
Botswana Rated Africa’s Best Safari Destination of 2020
One of Africa’s top tour booking companies recently conducted an extensive survey based on the reviews of thousands of experts in the tourism industry to determine the best safari destination in Africa for 2020. The consistently top-rated destination, not surprisingly, is one that continues to provide some of the most amazing safari experiences on the planet – Botswana. More than 4,000 reviews were analyzed in the comprehensive study conducted by ‘Safari Bookings’ and safari goers from all over the planet made valuable contributions. The analysis of reviews included reviews from many esteemed travel journalists, mainly guidebook writers who contribute regularly to Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, Frommer’s, Bradt and Footprint. Some of the comments received in the survey were accolades like “Botswana is the sort of place where even your average safari feels like stepping into a documentary by National Geographic, one where so many of the great dramas of the African wild are played out on a daily basis.” This according to Anthony Ham – Author for travel magazines and Lonely Planet guides. Another from Emma Gregg, Author for Rough Guides, National Geographic Traveler and more, was “No other African country has such a rich mosaic of pristine habitats, from russet-colored dunes to glittering seasonal wetlands.” So Why is Botswana Rated Africa’s Best Safari Country of 2020? Firstly, it showcases many alternating landscapes. In the south you will find the Tuli Block and Mashatu Game Reserve, the Land of Giants, so named after the giant Baobab trees and elephants that call this vast adventure wilderness their home. Also experience the stark, arid beauty of the Kalahari Desert in the south, famed for its beautiful black-maned lions and other more elusive creatures. Travel north to the Chobe National Park renowned for the majestic Chobe River and its large herds of elephants as well as the Savuti Channel, renowned for its large populations of predators. The Okavango Delta is world renowned for its wonderful winding waterways and its vast wilderness filled with some of Africa’s enigmatic wildlife and most elusive bird life. Adapted for a life in and out of water, the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga antelope are found in this watery wilderness. Lion, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog share the floodplains with large herds of elephant and buffalo. Situated in the Eastern Delta, the Moremi Game Reserve is an excellent safari destination. The Reserve is one of the most spectacular wildlife conservancies in Botswana, where an abundance of wildlife moves around freely. The unique landscape features a unique mix of dry ecosystems as well as wetlands. Travelling to Botswana for your safari will offer you the opportunity to experience unforgettable game-viewing from both land and water. This includes game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, bush walks, boat cruises and mokoro rides. Every destination will offer you a different kind of game-viewing experience and we recommend that you combine them for the most immersive Botswana safari experience. Jewel Of Africa’s Newly Launched Botswana Tours for 2020 Jewel of Africa Safaris now offers two unique and intimate Botswana safari experiences worth drawing your attention to. These are the Luxury Okavango Delta Mobile Safari and the Exclusive Trans Okavango Water Safari. Both offer you an in-depth, private Okavango Delta safari experience, combined with luxury, all-inclusive tented accommodation and private, exclusive access to land and water-based game-viewing activities. These include privately guided game drives, boat cruises and land-based game drives. Where possible, bush walks will also be included. Your unforgettable African safari will take you on an eclectic combination of activities for an exclusive immersion into the breath-taking oasis of the Okavango Delta. Your luxury mobile safari mostly includes transfers on land by vehicle and your water safari includes boat cruises down the mighty river and into narrow side-branches on a traditional mokoro. Whether on a game drive or a water safari, you will find hidden jewels in the savannah, in the forests, and along the floodplains such as lions, leopard, wild dog, hippos, crocodiles and malachite kingfishers and the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. Enjoy picnic lunches on secluded delta islands and sumptuous dining around a fire under the African night sky. Make The Most Of This Highly Rated Country There is simply no better way than this to make the most of your visit to this beautiful country. Jewel of Africa, in our personalized, customized fashion will take you there and ensure the kind of memorable, idyllic experience that we have become known for. Simply browse our website to begin your African journey today and contact us for a direct booking for Botswana– Rated Africa’s Best Safari destination of 2020!
Top Adventure Activities While On Safari In The Greater Kruger, South Africa
We have written a range of articles on the great adventure activities that can be enjoyed when on safari in Africa. The thrill of spotting the ‘Big 5,’ Africa’s most elusive wildlife species, is something that is hard to parallel, but many travellers also love to get their adrenaline pumping in other ways. Those who long to get fit and enjoy the great outdoors couldn’t ask for a much better place to visit than South Africa and there is no better place to combine a great safari with an adventure vacation than at and around the iconic Kruger Park. Mpumalanga and Limpopo Province play host to the now world-renowned Panorama Route and all have great adventure offerings. Here then are the top Adventure Activities while on Safari in the Greater Kruger, South Africa… Kruger Park Obviously, the highlight in the park itself is the game viewing, but fabulous guided walking safaris can be had too. One can really get the blood flowing when walking just a few metres away from a Rhino or Elephant! There are also mountain bike and 4-wheel drive trials and golfing, and caving can be done in, or very close to, the park itself. Hot air ballooning and helicopter flips are also great favourites both over the park and in the nearby areas. Spotting game from above is a totally different and very thrilling experience. The Panorama Route On the Panorama route at Hazyview on the Sabie River, all the great river adventure activities can be experienced like riding the rapids in between great scenic sightings with River rafting and White water tubing. In the same area you can have the Quad biking experience of a lifetime through the bushveld and freely glide over one of the last remaining natural forested valleys on the aerial cable trail! You can take hikes to experience spectacular scenic beauty at God’s window and the Three Rondavels or go where the landscape is spectacularly displayed at Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Of course helicopter flips over such incredibly beautiful scenic areas is a favourite here too. Graskop At Graskop, a favourite quaint little village town in Mpumalanga, you can view the stunning landscape from a breathtaking height at the Graskop Gorge Lift. It descends 51m and opens its doors on to luscious greenery and a 600m suspended waterfall trail. Wherever there are gorges there is another favourite too – bungee jumping! Limpopo The Limpopo stretches from the Limpopo River in the far north to the Blyde River Canyon in the south and also offers a myriad of action adventure attractions. The rolling hills, mountain gorges and clear streams of the Limpopo make Horseback riding a favourite here. With a lot of forestry, there is also ‘canopy’ action, which is basically sliding along zip lines high above the ground between connected platforms. Hot air balloons regularly take off from Hoedspruit and make their way to Blyde River Canyon, where the spectacular beauty of the canyon is only surpassed for adventure lovers by ‘Canyoning.’ This is essentially the activity of moving through a canyon by walking, scrambling, rope-assisted activities, climbing, tubing or swimming. Pretty hectic and sometimes heart stopping stuff! Do It Your Way This is a broad overview of the top Adventure Activities while on Safari in the Greater Kruger, South Africa and one needs to be here to experience everything that this amazing place has to offer. The best part is that with Jewel of Africa safaris you can do it your way …in your own time, at your own pace and to suit your pocket. Our tailor-made packages make it possible for all our valued guests to create exclusive Kruger Park Safaris with adventure activity vacations. Whether its thrills and spills, or just to chill that takes your fancy, contact us to arrange your unforgettable African vacation today.
Leave Only Your Footprints: Responsible Tourism In South Africa And Beyond
The tourism industry is one that is vital to a country such as South Africa, where low productivity and economic issues are often offset by the income it generates. Spectacular beaches, scenic routes, winelands and of course the world’s best wildlife preservation areas, all contribute to a healthy tourism industry. There is however, if one will excuse the pun, a bit of a ‘black cloud’ that hangs over tourism and its contribution to ecological issues in the country. Responsible research shows that it is in fact a global issue. Tourism generates 10% of the world’s GDP, one in every 10 jobs and 30% of world trade in services. However, according to the World Tourism Organisation, it is also responsible for approximately 5% of global CO2 emissions and contributes 4.6% of global warming! We believe the issue can be addressed and why we are writing this article for our clients, because it is really about awareness and practicing responsible tourism in South Africa and beyond! What is Responsible Tourism? Responsible tourism is the raising of awareness of the tourists to South Africa of the responsibility that they carry in order to assist the country to a more sustainable future. It is a combined effort of course and the official description is “Responsible Tourism aims to unite travel companies, organisations and individuals interested in spreading sustainable practices and ethical methods within the travel industry.” Here is South Africa, as in many countries, we have recycling issues and are really battling to educate people to practice effective recycling and effective waste management. Further to this, in South Africa in particular, we have very big issues with drought in certain areas and with energy resources. Famous for rolling black outs, the local power company faces many challenges and local people and hotels have learned to conserve electricity and look to alternate sources of energy. There are also massive water savings drives amongst the tourism industry, but it is important for the traveller too to become a part of these initiatives. How to Travel Responsibly and Incorporate it Into Your Travel Plans When planning to travel to South Africa we ask that certain fundamental things are observed as a matter of respect and in the spirit of joining the sustainability initiative. Waste – Visitors can help minimize their impact on the environment by making small adjustments to their behavior during their visits. For instance, recycling bins are provided in our conference centres and now even in many hotels, so we encourage you to participate in waste separation at source. Also, why not pack your own reusable water bottle, and refill it for every game drive or bush walk? Energy – Simply switching off the lights when leaving you hotel room and using less power wherever you can, will reduce fossil fuel energy provided by electricity. The joy of Africa, especially if you are in the veld is to enjoy campfires, candles and paraffin lamps. It’s all part of the atmosphere! Also make sure you ask about eco-friendly and solar-powered accommodation options when booking with us, which will ensure you leave only your footprints behind. Fuel – Stay fit on holiday and cycle or walk to where you want to go. Just get advice from hoteliers or your safari guides as to where and when is safe. There is so much to see on foot – it is a pleasurable way to save the emissions from fuel. Water – Try to conserve water wherever possible and turn off that tap! Excellent bottled water is available for sale to drink and why not take a shower together? You are after all in one of the most romantic places in the World – take advantage of it! Also, why not take your laundry home with you instead of getting it washed at your hotel or lodge? Litter – Litter in the bushveld can kill an animal, so never just throw anything from your safari drive vehicle. In the city it is a scourge in Africa, particularly discarded plastics like straws that kill our marine life and ruin beaches. We work tirelessly to prevent this and clean up, so please don’t ever become a part of the problem. Travel with Those Who Care You can also travel with Jewel of Africa Safaris, a 5-star rated guided tour operator who have a great love for this country and a proud social responsibility conscience. We will guide you through all you need to know when in South Africa and those countries bordering us and make your experience a positive and unforgettable one. Not only will you be making a contribution to responsible tourism in South Africa and beyond, but we will tailor make a package for you that takes you everywhere you want to go and experience everything you want to do! Check out our website to learn more and contact us to book today for a once in a lifetime African safari and guided tour!
