Category: Uncategorized

Our philosophy applies internally as well as externally.  ‘Thompsons Africa is a place where customers want to do business, where guests feel celebrated and where people love to work.’

Testament to this commitment to our philosophy are the WONDERFUL compliments we regularly receive from our customers and guests.

‘Hi Nikita, I have returned from my South Africa and Dubai trip on the scheduled date. I really wanted to thank you for the best trip of my life. South Africa is amazingly beautiful, and your arrangements may it be the hotels, guides, transfers etc were all perfect and made the experience breathtaking! Special mention for Jacob (our Cape town guide) he was the best person I have ever travelled with! He had so much knowledge about South Africa, wildlife, nature, history etc that it’s hard to find such amazing guides and I’m grateful to you giving me an opportunity of travelling in such a way. Will request you to convey this especially to the Thompson Africa team!’

‘Hi Nicole,
You are amazing! Thank you so much for assisting our traveller with the expedited passport. I think this is an amazing representation of ‘above and beyond’ service and confirmation that our travellers ‘well – being’ is paramount to what we do, well done to one and all. Many thanks to the ground team for being there for our guest, wonderful job!’

‘I wanted to thank you ladies and everyone involved in creating and organizing this amazing FAM trip! I have been on many FAM Trips over the years, but never one quite this special and well organized. Robyn was fantastic, she kept everyone happy and engaged. How she got all of us ‘girls’ on the same page and on time for everything was feat in itself! It was a once in a lifetime journey and because of it I now feel confident in selling Africa! Again, thank you all, and Robyn, Ryan, Faysil, and Jackie and everyone else involved for this amazing fun and educational trip.’

‘Marshnee is always there, so knowledgeable and worth gold to me.  Thank you!’

‘This trip was an outstanding experience and so far the longest vacation and tour that I’ve ever done.  It was truly ‘incredible’ in the content, the accommodations and cuisine, the personal service and attention of our guides, and even the amount of free time. Our small group of six was celebrating fifty years of friendship and we have set high standards after more than 45 years of traveling together. This trip did not disappoint and is for me the trip of a lifetime.’

‘It was wonderful!  Your organisation was excellent and the variety of venues and hotels was great. We felt like VIPs. We loved having the transfers organised for us and yet having our own time when we got to the hotels.’

‘Craig was outstanding.  His love of his country was evident.  During the tour our son said something like ‘Haven’t you seen this before?’ and Craig’s response was ‘It’s my first time with you’.  I think that really says a lot.  It is clear Craig loves his job.’

Thank you to our many partners and friends across the globe for your incredible support.  We look forward to continuing this wonderful relationship in 2020 and years to come.

As experts in our field, we are here to guide and advise.  A consultant is just a call or email away.

 

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

There are so many reasons why Southern Africa absolutely MUST be on your list of destinations to visit.  We highlight just a handful.

1.  Value for Money

There is something for every budget, from ULTRA luxury to ‘do-it-your-own-way on a budget’.  The options are endless.  At Thompsons Africa, we love arranging tailor-made packages…. It’s our ability to do so that makes us experts in our field. Whatever your guests’ requirements, we put together the perfect journey to accommodate their every wish.  On their budget.

2.  The Wildlife

The game viewing options are vast and excellent.  For many, seeing the Big Five is a ‘put that at the top of my bucket list‘ experience.  Africa offers superb safari viewing opportunity.  Secure in a glorious canvas tent or luxuriating in an acclaimed five-star lodge, an African safari with Thompsons Africa will always bring guests closer to the very nature of things.

3.  The Adrenaline

Africa is WILD (not just because of the wildlife).  For those who want to experience it all, Africa is the perfect destination for the adrenaline junkie.

4.  The Wine

If winding your way through the Winelands testing out the many, many wine estates on offer is your version of the perfect holiday?  South Africa, Cape Town is the place to be.  Thompsons Africa can help you craft the perfect ‘wining and dining’ experience.

5.  The Food

Ever tasted a traditional South African melktert?  What about a bunnychow?  Dried kapenta fish are shallow fried with onions, tomatoes and goundnut powder. They are eaten with traditional staple meal called isitshwala or sadza in Zimbabwe. Africa is home to such a diversity of cultures its no wonder there is such a variety of dining options.

6.  The People

We are a humble people.  Enormous smiles and even more enormous hearts.  Guests will feel it wherever they go!  There is a welcoming, warm spirit in the people of Africa.  Its not something easily explained.  Send your guests to experience the diversity of cultures and warmth of the people for themselves.

7.  The Landscapes

The Victoria Falls in Zambia/Zimbabwe, Blyde River Canyon in South Africa, the Okavango Delta in Botswana.  Within each country in Southern Africa there is a uniqueness that will keep guests coming back time and time again.  This is a ‘needs to be on my bucket list multiple times’ destination.

8.  Perfect for Families

Southern Africa is the perfect children’s playground. The climate and outdoor lifestyle lends itself to so many activities which children love, some with which they’re familiar, others they’ll experience for the very first time. And the family is there to be part of it. Travel with children is a speciality of Thompsons Africa. After all, a family holiday is a true memory-maker, so we make sure those memories are picture perfect.

Visit our Customer Zone Tailor Made Packages section to view a sample of some of the tailor made experiences on offer.  These are a sample only and we recommend that you contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today to tailor make a Southern Africa experience.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

 

Our Green/Conservation Committee recently spent a morning at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

Having collected donations of food and other items from our staff for the animals in the care of the SPCA, they spent a morning understanding more about the important role the SPCA plays in our local communities.

The SPCA’s services include kennels and cattery, an animal health clinic, inspectorate, an outreach clinic and education programs, with their main focus being on their mandate in the protection of animals and to prevent cruelty, neglect and suffering.

About Our Green/Conservation Committee

The Green/Conservation Committee focuses on educating Thompsons Africa employees, customers, suppliers and friends on the importance of conserving our environment and wildlife for future generations.  This committee works to identify sustainable initiatives within our office environment in order to minimise our impact on the environment.  Additionally, they identify key conservation organisations who Thompsons Africa supports, assists and promotes.

From Thompsons Africa to our Green/Conservation Committee… ‘Thank you for your efforts!  We appreciate the time and passion that you put into all of the tasks you set for yourself in achieving the goals of the committee.’

 

 

Flight demand has been scrutinised to ensure SAA is running efficient flights. To this end, SAA will therefore cancel and consolidate selected scheduled flights where there is low demand based on current forward bookings for the month of February.

Recognising the importance of advance planning for our customers, it is thus important that we provide advance notice as soon as possible to affected customers.

Philip Saunders, Chief Commercial Officer, noted, “We are committed to accommodating all affected customers on alternative flights, operated by the airline and its Star Alliance partners. Any inconvenience or delays are intended to be minimal.”

Travel agents, alliance partners and relevant stakeholders have been notified of these operational changes. SAA appreciates their on-going support in re-accommodating our passengers.

 

Flight Cancellations

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Durban (DUR)

SA575                  Depart 1900      Arrive 2005       Dates: 01, 05, 06, 08, 13 February

SA575                  Depart 1830      Arrive 1935       Dates: 07 February

SA527                  Depart 0630      Arrive 0735       Dates: 21 February

 

Durban (DUR) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA528                  Depart 0630      Arrive 0735       Dates: 02 , 06 , 07 , 09 , 14 , 21 February

SA580                  Depart 2005      Arrive 2110       Dates: 07  February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Cape Town (CPT)

SA353                  Depart 1600      Arrive 1805       Dates: 03 , 04 , 11 ,  17 , 24 February

SA313                  Depart 0850      Arrive 1055       Dates: 04 , 11 , 25 February

SA303                  Depart 0530      Arrive 0735       Dates: 05 , 13 , 17 , 26 February

 

Cape Town (CPT) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA366                  Depart 1850      Arrive 2045       Dates: 03 , 04 , 11 , 17 , 24 February

SA326                  Depart 1135      Arrive 1330       Dates: 04 , 11 , 25 February

SA316                  Depart 0820      Arrive 1015       Dates: 05 , 13 , 17 , 26 February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – East London (ELS)

SA477                  Depart 1855      Arrive 2020       Dates: 05 , 06 , 12 , 19 , 26 February

 

East London (ELS) – Johannesburg (JNB)  

SA472                  Depart 0630      Arrive 0755       Dates: 06 , 07 , 13 , 20 , 27 February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Livingstone (LVI)

SA048                  Depart 1040      Arrive 1220       Dates: 01 , 05 , 08 , 10 , 11 , 15 , 18 , 19 , 26 ,  27  February

 

Livingstone (LVI) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA049                  Depart 1300      Arrive 1440       Dates: 01 , 05 , 08 , 10 , 11 , 15 , 18 , 19 , 26 ,  27  February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Kinshasa (FIH)

SA050                  Depart 1010      Arrive 1255       Dates: 03 February

 

Kinshasa (FIH) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA051                  Depart 1345      Arrive 1830       Dates: 03 February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Dar Es Salaam (DAR)

SA188                  Depart 1335      Arrive 1755       Dates: 03 , 10 , 17 February

 

Dar Es Salaam (DAR) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA189                  Depart 0600      Arrive 0830       Dates: 04 , 11 , 18 February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Nairobi (NBO)

SA180                  Depart 1530      Arrive 2030       Dates: 01 , 08 , 22 February

 

Nairobi (NBO) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA181                  Depart 0835      Arrive 1140       Dates: 02 , 09 , 23 February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Windhoek (WDH)

SA074                  Depart 0950      Arrive 1145       Dates: 06 February

SA076                  Depart 1430      Arrive 1625       Dates:  05 , 12 , 19 , 26 February

 

Windhoek (WDH) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA075                  Depart 1235      Arrive 1420       Dates: 06 February

SA077                  Depart 1715      Arrive 1900       Dates:  05 , 12 , 19 , 26 February

 

Johannesburg (JNB) – Accra (ACC) – Washington (IAD)

SA209                    Depart 1805      Arrive 2205/Depart 2320            Arrive 0600        Dates: 16 , 18 February

 

Washington (IAD) – Accra (ACC) – Johannesburg (JNB)

SA210                    Depart 1740      Arrive 0835/Depart 0935            Arrive 1725        Dates: 17 ,  19 February

This year we celebrate 100 years of being driven by service.

 

Thompsons Africa is part of Cullinan Holdings Ltd, whose main shareholder is The Travel Corporation, a family-owned entity with 45 offices worldwide and an envied reputation for delivering quality, service, and value.  As part of the global The Travel Corporation family, we join them in celebrating their first 100 years.

 

Listen to Vicki Tollman as she shares the Tollman family vision for a year of celebrating being ‘driven by service’.

 

Our guest compliments are testament to our commitment to being driven by service:

 

‘Craig was outstanding.  His love of his country was evident.  During the tour our son said something like ‘Haven’t you seen this before?’ and Craig’s response was ‘It’s my first time with you’.  I think that really says a lot.  It is clear Craig loves his job.’

 

‘It was wonderful!  Your organisation was excellent and the variety of venues and hotels was great. We felt like VIPs. We loved having the transfers organised for us and yet having our own time when we got to the hotels.’

 

‘This trip was an outstanding experience and so far the longest vacation and tour that I’ve ever done.  It was truly ‘incredible’ in the content, the accommodations and cuisine, the personal service and attention of our guides, and even the amount of free time. Our small group of six was celebrating fifty years of friendship and we have set high standards after more than 45 years of traveling together. This trip did not disappoint and is for me the trip of a lifetime.’

As experts in our field, we are here to guide and advise.  A consultant is just a call or email away.

 

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

The story of Jabulani started some years before the luxury lodge ‘Jabulani’ was built.

An elephant calf of just four months old was taken into the care of Lente Roode (founder of Jabulani) at Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre where she was involved in a cheetah breeding project.  Jabulani, the elephant calf, had been found injured, abandoned and stuck in the mud of a silt dam.

A few years later, Lente was contacted to urgently assist in the rescue of a herd of elephants from an elephant back safari operation in Zimbabwe.  Returning to the reserve with the herd of elephants and their carers, Jabulani was introduced to them and a new herd was established.

Since then, five healthy elephant calves have been born to the Jabulani herd, two additional orphans introduced and in January 2017, all elephant back safaris conducted at Jabulani were discontinued.  Today Jabulani has evolved into a soulful safari experience.

The elephant experience at Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD) is extremely respectable and has been deemed acceptable according to the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA). 

Guests normally get one opportunity to get closer to one or two of the elephants called ‘ambassadors’.  They are the elephants in the herd who enjoy being around guests.  The interaction is very respectful and educational, with a barrier of rocks or wood that divides them.  After learning about their personal story and elephant biology, guests have an opportunity to give them a handful or two of food, and come close enough to touch their trunk.  The other elephants, who prefer their own company, stay out in the reserve during the day and are only viewable from a respectful distance.

The custom designed Jabulani elephant stables are spacious and airy and give the elephants the freedom to choose between indoor or outdoor shelter.  Four separate areas under roof provide access to an outdoor paddock where fresh water and food is provided every night.

As a guest at Jabulani, part of your Elephant Experience is to observe the herd as they retire to their stables in the evenings and learn more about the herd dynamics, as well as the daily routine that goes into the upkeep and cleanliness of the stables.

On the 9th of January, HERD received a four-month old severely injured baby elephant into their care.  She is an albino.  And she is a miracle.  Trapped in a snare with severe injuries, watch Khanyisa’s journey to recovery on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HERDElephantsSA/.

Staying at Jabulani

Located within a Big Five private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Park area, Jabulani, a Relais & Châteaux property, offers a unique opportunity for gracious living in a five-star luxury lodge.

Each of the 6 spacious and elegant suites are luxuriously furnished and features both a private deck and a plunge pool. Children are welcome at Jabulani from the age of six and at Zindoga Villa at any age.

Jabulani is a place to indulge your every sense, a place to explore the African wild and reconnect with nature, experience amazing wildlife and enjoy superb cuisine. Your dedicated Jabulani ranger will ensure that your safari experience is tailor-made to your personal preference, whether laid back and relaxed or filled with game viewing and other activities.

Truly a soulful, insightful and unforgettable experience.

Combine the best of both experiences with a 3 night stay at Jabulani including an authentic elephant interaction with The African Elephant Project.

A consultant is just a call or email away to make a booking at Jabulani and the opportunity to experience the elephants of HERD first hand.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

 

A luxury escape is about more than just a luxurious room.  Its a sense of luxurious experience communicated through every touch point of a brand.  Its an authentic, exclusive experience.

Explore with Us as we take a closer look at a few of the ULTIMATE luxury escapes we partner with.

Xigera Safari Lodge

This is the story of an ancient place; of rebirth, of family legacy, and of a lodge that is so pioneering, so authentic, that it reinvents the very idea of what it means to experience the African bush. This is Xigera (“Kee-jera”), a bold new statement in Botswana’s most unspoilt wilderness, situated on the western side of the Moremi Game Reserve in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

Xigera is a labour of love, a miraculous and enchanting transformation that will create experiences that are, quite simply, extraordinary.

Using a light footprint, is just 12 suites, each an exquisite reimagining of the safari experience, showcasing the finest Southern African artisans and creating a design that is utterly in tune with its surroundings.  Quietly surprising touches are everywhere, from the lily-inspired spa to the chance of a life- changing sleep-out beneath the velvet night sky.

Experiences on Land

Game Drives

With such a flexible approach to the game drives you will never be left unsatisfied.  There is always an early start option for those eager to be the first up and out to find any predators on the move or still on the hunt from the night before, or there is a later departure for those who want to rather ease into the day with an early morning yoga or gym session or just a sleep-in before going out.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris, in the company of Xigera’s expert guides just outside the Moremi Game Reserve, are opportunities to take you to ground level, to place your feet in the soil of the African wilderness and to bring you in touch with the microcosm of the wild. You’ll be able to truly appreciate the importance of your senses, to feel the direction of the wind, to listen to your footsteps, to notice the smaller creatures of nature and to use your own energy to explore the natural life of the Delta.

Guiding and Hosting

Xigera’s experienced safari guides are Batswana (Tswana) people of exceptional calibre, they know the area intimately and have deep ecological knowledge of Botswana’s natural world.

Water Excursions

During the wet months, you can blunder silently through the waters on a beautiful glass-bottomed mokoro craft (a traditional canoe) or sleek motor boat to experience the intricate waterways. You might catch glimpses of dusky bream and silver squeaker fish that throng these parts when the waters are high enough, darting between waterlilies. There are some 80 species across the whole system of rivers, channels and lagoons, and in-season, catch-and-release fishing can be experienced just outside the Moremi Game Reserve. Being led by Xigera’s guides, you’ll see enough water wildlife to keep you entertained for hours.

Xigera Safari Lodge opens in June 2020

The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa

The Saxon Hotel is an intimate boutique style hotel, situated on ten acres of magnificent indigenous gardens, providing a private and peaceful retreat like no other.  Guest rooms are spacious, being a minimum size of 80 s/m.

The hotel has three restaurants on site, offering a wide range of dietary options to suit any pallet. Numerous dining awards have been bestowed to the property, not to mention the prestigious Diners Club International Wine list awards. Unique pieces of art can be viewed throughout the property. Mini Bars and snacks are offered on a complimentary basis across all suite types and sparkling wine / champagne are offered in suites on arrival. Should you require anything else, request it from any of the butlers that are available 24 hours a day. Each suite offers only the best in Luxury amenity products.

The Fitness centre and Spa Hydro facility is open to all guests during their stay. Guests are surrounded by beautiful rolling gardens having the feeling of being in an oasis in the city.

Shambala Private Game Reserve

Shambala Private Game Reserve (Zulu Camp and Nelson Mandela Villa) offers completely tailor-made itineraries. Shambala Private Game Reserve is located in a Malaria free region and is a privately-owned reserve in the Limpopo province.

A wide range of activities are available (Private Safari vehicles, game research and handling program) for all guests to enjoy. The Reserve has its own Private Heli-pad and is 2.5 hours away from Johannesburg by car and 45 minutes by helicopter.

Menus can be created specifically for guest’s specific needs and requirements, with fine wines and premium beverages being readily available.  Luxurious French Provencal decorated chalets, each having their own private terrace sets the mood for relaxation. The property boasts a Spa situated in a secluded bush clearing along the riverside.

The Nelson Mandela villa:

“I am delighted to share my home here with you and hope you will feel refreshed and inspired by your visit to this special place.”
– Nelson Mandela

Designed specifically for President Mandela’s use during his presidency. Boasting accommodation for a maximum of 12 people, formal and informal lounge areas an indoor/outdoor heated swimming pool that overlooks a private water hole. Bask in the luxury of this private villa in the bush, which is quite simply, Presidential. No wonder they form part of The Leading Hotels of the World portfolio.

The Last Word Long Beach

The Last Word Long Beach is a beautiful five star property located on the beach in Kommetjie. There is a total of 8 kilometres of pristine white beach in front of the hotel which guarantees every guest a breath-taking view of the ocean perfectly from their room. The Last Word Long Beach forms part of the Mantis Collection and is an intimate and exclusive Boutique Hotel – perfect for that luxury getaway to enjoy peace and relaxation without the hustle and bustle of the city.

Apart from the wonderful smell of the ocean at your doorstep, you can also enjoy uninterrupted majestic mountain views. Talk about spoilt for choice and a picture worthy holiday! If the views and location aren’t enough (yeah right), why not focus on the incredible rates offered by the property which include a scrumptious seafood dinner every night as well as beverages and mini-bars.

Why would you need to go anywhere else when you can get everything you need right in the comfort of your home away from home? Luxury at its best!

Thanda Safari

With 14 000ha to explore, you’ll see diverse wildlife with an opportunity of encountering the Big Five; the animals that inspire a long-lasting connection with the African Continent. What’s more, it’s exclusively yours as Thanda Safari is a private game reserve with a maximum of 58 guests spread amongst the three property choices – within KwaZulu-Natal which has one of the country’s enviable tropical climates.

Our flagship property Thanda Safari Lodge offers nine bush suites, personifying luxurious exclusivity and African abundance. Villa iZulu is a five-bedroom homestead which offers complete privacy, elegance and indulgence. Thanda Tented Camp, with its 15 luxury safari tents, offers an evocative into Africa experience.

Thanda Safari has a highly-skilled wildlife and environment management team operating 24/7 behind the scenes to manage the reserve, to combat rhino and elephant poaching in the region and to participate in breeding and range expansion programmes for critically endangered species. The Volunteer Programme (Ulwazi) gives volunteers the opportunity of being part of conservation management on the reserve whilst also contributing to wildlife and conservation research.

Besides the early morning and afternoon game drives, Thanda Safari offers a wide variety of activities such as bush walks, rhino & cheetah tracking, cultural trips, a hippo & croc tour to St Lucia, bird watching and star gazing. Christian Sperka, Thanda’s very own Resident Wildlife Photographer offers a complimentary photography lesson to teach guests more about the art of catching the perfect wildlife moment.  For those looking for the ultimate photographic safari, Christian has created photographic packages which include the game drive vehicle called the ‘Green Mamba’ which has been converted into a safari vehicle, which can take two photographers and an additional three guests.

At Thanda Safari, where most of our team members are Zulu and from the local community, we offer you a special introduction to the Zulu people who generously share their living culture, ancient traditions and stories of their founding monarch, the legendary King Shaka Zulu. Witness traditional Zulu dancing which is an important part of the Zulu culture and the dancing is something quite spectacular, especially when the men (young warriors) and women (mamas) are fully dressed in their traditional attire.

Marataba Game Reserve

Africa is the cradle of civilization, but coming to Marataba feels as if the modern world might never have happened. It’s a land immemorial, where the Nature’s Way has survived; San rock art and Iron Age sites preserve a rich heritage, and untamed animals still roam free.

A wildlife Eden set in the middle of its vast wilderness where the safari possibilities seem as endless as the horizon itself, Marataba Safari Lodge and Marataba Mountain Lodge share 23, 000 hectares of pristine natural ground, promising a highly personal and exclusive private safari experience, free concession forming part of Marakele National Park.

Marataba Safari Lodge is a simple extension of the natural environment beyond its walls – rich, bold, organic and patently magnificent. If you sit quietly for long enough, you can feel the energy of the countless people who have made this place home since The Stone Age.

A remote retreat looking down on the breath-taking Waterfall Valley, Marataba Mountain Lodge welcomes those in search of peace and a space to breathe. This is truly a lodge ‘of the earth’, fully solar powered and with a Scandi-style architectural simplicity that seamlessly blends it into the natural environment. It’s the private location that really sets it apart, with wide-angle vistas of the Waterberg escarpment, merging into acacia savannah – a perfect wilderness all to your own.

Guests are able to enjoy a water safari in the Python Dam on board Miss Mara which presents spectacular photo opportunities! Whilst on safari, there’s no need to sacrifice comfort for the close-up – vehicles are kitted out with cushioned bucket seats and water-proof device holders.

Thabametsi at Marataba is MORE’s newest (and most luxurious) Treehouse hideout. Solar powered and built over two levels, it includes a main bedroom, full shower, lounge, and viewing decks presenting the Waterberg Mountains and verdant expanse of the reserve in all their splendour. Driven by your field guide, guests arrive as sunset gilds the landscape, and the coolness of approaching evening brings animals into the open. A gourmet, tapas-style picnic has been laid out for you at your table on the deck, from where you have front row seats to the wildest theatre.

As experts in our field, we are here to guide and advise.  A consultant is just a call or email away for more details on these or other ULTIMATE Luxury Escapes.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

 

The world’s longest over-ocean zipline is set to open this month in Mossel Bay, South Africa.  SA Forest Adventures has partnered with Mossel Bay Zipline to create the latest South African thrill ride.

At 1100 meters (3608 feet) long, you’ll have time to take in the scenery….or will you???  You’ll be ziplining over the ocean at speeds of up to 80km/h (50m/h) so while in theory you’ll have the opportunity for unparalleled views of the cliffs, ocean and possibly sea life…..look down if you dare!

Located in the beautiful coastal town of Mossel Bay, thrill seekers need to be age 6 and up, a maximum weight of 120kg, no more than 190cm tall and definitely no pregnant ladies.

The zipline will stretch from the cliffs below Point High School to the deck of the current (Shark Lab) aquarium at the Point, according to the Mossel Bay Advertiser.

Mossel Bay is a small harbour town on the Garden Route in South Africa.  Known for the wide Santos Beach and the 19th-century Cape St Blaize Lighthouse, the Post Office Tree, a milkwood tree in the Bartholomeu Dias Museum complex, has been used as a mail collection point since the 1500’s.

Keen to try out this ‘1.1km of screaming fun’?  In the Mossel Bay area, stay at Protea Hotel by Marriott Mossel Bay, Garden Court Mossel Bay or Eight Bells Mountain Inn.

*** The official opening date and rates of the zipline experience will be advised in due course.  ‘Weather at this stage of installation has thrown us a small curve ball and we are simply waiting for better weather to finalize the date.’ – SA Forest Adventures

As experts in our field, we are here to guide and advise.  A consultant is just a call or email away for more details or to make a booking.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

 

These ‘off the beaten track’ properties are definitely worth closer inspection!  Join us as we explore just a few of our favourite hidden gems including recommendations for combinations with other properties.

Nambiti Hills Private Game Experience

Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge is situated on 30,000 magnificent acres of private game reserve, ideally located between Durban and Johannesburg.

All guest suites have private patios, four-poster beds, air-conditioning, over-size bath tubs and rain showers. An added bonus is that the heated swimming pool can accommodate guests all year round.

The Zolile Spa, which uses decadent local products from Healing Earth, can be enjoyed between the twice-daily scheduled game drives or after exploring the reserve on foot on one of the guided bush walks.

The Nambiti Big Five Private Game Reserve is situated in a malaria-free area – so there’s no need for medication. The majestic Drakensberg Mountain Range, which is a World Heritage Site, is less than an hour’s drive from the reserve, perfect for that berg and bush combination.

WE RECOMMEND

For a BATTLEFIELDS AND BUSH EXPERIENCE, combine Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge with Fugitives Drift.

Leopard Mountain Game Lodge

Leopard Mountain Game Lodge is an exclusive five star property set within the magnificent 58 000-acre Manyoni Private Game Reserve. The lodge staff and owners are committed to attention to detail and have a true passion for exceeding the expectations of every guest.

With a total of only 8 chalets, you can be sure that individual care and attention is of utmost importance to the lodge staff.

Wild animals roam freely over this vast wilderness providing spectacular game viewing and intimate encounters with some of Africa’s most endangered species. Game viewing in the reserve is prolific with amazing sightings of the Big Five (including black and white rhino), cheetah and wild dog.

The unique waterhole activity in the middle of the day is an added ‘bonus feature’ of Leopard Mountain which allows guests to just sit back and enjoy life and nature around the Waterhole.

Leopard Mountain Lodge is owner run and managed for over 20 years, ensuring that each guest has a personalised experience.

WE RECOMMEND

For a BUSH AND BEACH EXPERIENCE combine Leopard Mountain Game Lodge with Makakatana Bay Lodge.

Kambaku @ Sea

An adult’s nature wonderland, Kambaku @ Sea is surrounded by the tranquillity of nature, fauna, flora and breath-taking views!  Located on the Swartvlei Estuary, just outside the small town of Sedgefield – where these waters are home to the rarest species of seahorses, the Knysna Seahorse.

Kambaku @ Sea is owner managed and run, which creates a warm and intimate home away from home guest experience with personal touches and attention to detail to make your stay an unforgettable one! On site activities, from birding and kayaking to sunset boat cruises coupled with fine dining and fine wines are on offer.

Based on 40 hectares of unspoilt fynbos, encircled by forest and estuaries, it easily lends itself to the calm and serenity of its surrounds. With resident Bushbuck, Honey Badger, Otters and endangered Tortoises, not to mention around 270 spectacular bird species. 3.5 km of pristine beaches, all registered as conservation areas are only a few minutes away.

WE RECOMMEND

For a BEACH AND BUSH EXPERIENCE, combine Kambaku @ Sea with Botlierskop Game Reserve.

De Hoop Collection

De Hoop Collection is only a 3-hour drive from both Cape Town and George making it a perfect stopover to enjoy a 2 night stay off the Garden Route. The property offers world class land based whale watching with average sightings of around 15 to 20 between August to September.

De Hoop has 86 different kinds of free roaming mammals, approximately 260 different kinds of birds – from Flamingos to Fish Eagles and Blue Cranes as well as a 70km marine protected coastline that is home to an abundance of marine life. There are a variety of accommodation options to suit all pockets ranging from self-catering units, luxury suites, and the Manor House.

Onsite facilities include a restaurant with bar, walk-in cellar, spa, two swimming pools, a tennis court, on-site laundry, guided activities and self-guided walks making it the perfect destination for a traveller of any age!

WE RECOMMEND

For a NATURE GETAWAY, combine De Hoop Collection with Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse.

Steenberg Hotel

Steenberg Hotel is located in idyllic Constantia and is tranquil, calm and relaxing while being just 30 minutes from the centre of Cape Town and the V&A Waterfront.

The property is surrounded by wonderful cultural attractions and award-winning restaurants. Guests who visit Steenberg not only experience a farm with many different offerings but also experience and immerse themselves in the culture and heritage of Steenberg. A recent revamp of a selection of rooms and suites have created a modern and luxurious aesthetic and has created a space for families to feel more comfortable.

The property offers complimentary guided cellar tours in winter and garden walks in summer at the Tasting Room and guests even have the opportunity to join one of the best Wine Club’s in Cape Town which has many extraordinary benefits.

Guests can enjoy a marked walking trail at leisure on the property’s beautiful farm, a bicycle ride around the property amongst the vineyards and up to the dam, enjoy a complimentary transfer to and from the V&A Waterfront or even choose to relax in the beautiful Steenberg Spa which offers bespoke treatments in one of the treatment rooms.

WE RECOMMEND

For a GOLF OR FAMILY EXPERIENCE, combine Steenberg Hotel with Fancourt Manor House.

Morukuru Family

Morukuru Family properties are family owned and welcome families with children of all ages at their properties.  Children of all ages can join on game drives at Morukuru Family Madikwe thanks to their exclusive-use concept.

The ‘Morukuru Freedom Concept’ means that guests at any of their exclusive-use houses can do whatever they want, whenever they want. And everything is included as well!

The Morukuru Family offers 3 exclusive-use safari houses in the malaria-free Madikwe, perfect for families or groups of friends travelling together. Each house comes with 8 to 10 staff, as well as a private game drive vehicle. Morukuru Family Madikwe is located in a private concession inside Madikwe Game Reserve, which means they offer a sleep-out option (at no extra costs!), bush dinners and late-night drives

Their unique ‘Safaris with a Purpose’ package in Madikwe enables guests to have a hands-on experience with nature conservation!

WE RECOMMEND

For a LUXURY FAMILY BUSH AND BEACH GETAWAY, combine Morukuru Family with Morukuru Ocean House.

As experts in our field, we are here to guide and advise.  A consultant is just a call or email away for more details on these or other Off the Beaten Track hidden gems and recommended packages.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us