The opening of the Zietz MOCAA museum in Cape Town brings an entire new status…. the jewel in our crown!  This amazing architectural feat, turning a silo into a place of wonder, plus providing room after room of magnificent art works, is a delight to visit.  I was privileged to be invited to the happy event and while mingling with industry friends enjoying the delicious canapes and wine, I loved walking around and enjoying one of my favourite subjects – art.

Athi-Patra Ruga was born in Umtata, South Africa. Currently, Ruga lives between Cape Town and Johannesburg, working across the mediums of costume, performance, video and photography.

‘His playful visual imagery draws from a diverse range of cultural references that are not limited to a specific biology, ancestral origin, or geographical location. The queer hybrid figures represented in Ruga’s work exist in a liminal world between the utopian dream and reality.’ – Zeitz MOCAA

Isaac Julien was born in London, the UK where he is currently based and is an installation artist and filmmaker.

Julien received his BA in fine-art film from the Central Saint Martins School of Art, London (1984) and completed his postdoctoral studies at Les entrepreneurs del’audiovisuel europeen, Brussels (1989). Julien has a long history of participation in educational institutions which includes, visiting lecturer at Harvard University’s Schools of Afro-American and Visual Environmental Studies, visiting professor at the Whitney Museum of American Arts in New York, research fellow at Goldsmiths College, University of London, UK, professor at the Karlsruhe University of Arts and Design.

Julien also co-founded Sankofa Film and Video Collective and is a patron of the Live Art Development Agency.

‘His work has pioneered contemporary dialogue around the politics of sexuality, masculinity and cultural displacement. The works are an intersection of various forms of creative expression, taking influence from dance, painting, sculpture, theatre, film, and music.’ – Zeitz MOCAA

Kudzanai Chiurai was born in Harare, Zimbabwe where he currently lives and works.

Chiurai is a multi-disciplinary contemporary artist working in photography, drawings, film, painting, and sculpture. His artistic footprint has also stretched into the mediums of poetry, fashion, activism, publishing, and music, making him a cultural activist.

‘His work is focused on tracing the trajectory of political, economic and social conditions in his homeland from colonialism and independence, to the present day.’ – Zeitz MOCAA

Mary Sibande was born in Barberton, South Africa.

In 2004 she received a Diploma in Fine Arts from Witwatersrand Technikon, and in 2007 obtained a B-Tech degree from the University of Johannesburg.

Sibande’s career as an artist came under the spotlight with the opening of Long Live the Dead Queen at Gallery MOMO in Johannesburg, South Africa (2009), where she introduced Sophie, a life-size sculpted avatar, modelled in the artist’s own image.

‘Adorned in elaborate Victorian dress, Sibande makes reference to the uniform typically worn by domestic workers in South Africa.‘ – Zeitz MOCAA

For more about these and other artists, please visit https://zeitzmocaa.museum/art-artists/

MOCAA like the other iconic art museums will attract not only every lover of contemporary art but also collectors and art dealers from around the world, and more tourism.  It is interesting to note that in the last 4 years, 70 new art galleries have been established in Cape Town! Testament to the depth of the rich diversity and tapestry that this city offers – no wonder it is the jewel in the tourism crown of South Africa.

– Linda Pampallis

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is a public not-for-profit contemporary art museum which collects, preserves, researches, and exhibits twenty-first century art from Africa and its Diaspora; hosts international exhibitions; develops supporting educational and enrichment programs; encourages intercultural understanding; and guarantees access for all. Over one hundred galleries, spread over nine floors, are dedicated to a large cutting edge permanent collection; temporary exhibitions; and Centres for Art Education, Curatorial Excellence, Performative Practice, Photography, the Moving Image, and the Costume Institute.

Click here to view more if you’d like a first hand experience of the museum.

The below statement has been received from Robben Island Museum commenting on the recent incident of a ferry needing assistance from the National Sea Rescue Institute.

Robben Island Museum (RIM) Chartered Ferry Evacuation on Friday 15 September 2017

On Friday 15 September 2017, Thandi, one of Robben Island Museum’s (RIM) chartered passenger ferries, experienced trouble during its return trip to Cape Town. Once Port Control received the distress call from the ferry, Port Control immediately implemented emergency procedures, along with notifying the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) to get everyone back to shore safely. RIM’s other chartered ferry, Madiba 1 also arrived at the scene to assist with the rescue.

Due to the quick response and effective communication from all parties involved all 64 passengers and five crew members were returned safely to Cape Town. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the NSRI, ER24, V&A Waterfront, all other emergency services and the RIM team for their quick response to the scene and for a successful rescue operation.

Upon the Thandi ferry’s departure from Robben Island on Friday afternoon, the conditions at sea were suitable to proceed with the boat trip. As a part of our stringent sea safety protocols we undertake daily consultations with our ferry master. The consultation on Friday confirmed that the forecast for the day was not a reason for concern. However as we all know, the weather is very unpredictable, and the strong winds soon caused unplanned adverse conditions.

As soon as the ferry got into trouble, all the passengers and crew members were informed, fitted with life jackets and directed to the evacuation section on board before being picked up by the NSRI’s rescue vessels.

On behalf of RIM I would like to extend an apology to all who were impacted by the incident   We have made counsellors available to all the passengers to deal with their experience.

The safety of our passengers has always been a key priority for us. One of our strict requirements for any chartered ferry to conduct business with RIM is for the vessel to have a maintenance plan or maintenance schedule to ensure all machinery and equipment are always in perfect running condition, they are also required to have all the safety certificates for the vessels.

Following this incident, we have initiated our own internal investigation which will help us determine the cause of the incident. South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) will also be conducting an investigation; RIM will support  them throughout the process. RIM will continue to look at the incident  and see if there are any areas  that need  further improvement.  The  success  of having  no casualties  means  that  our  current  risk mitigation plans that we have in place are working.

Please be assured that it is business as usual.  We look forward to sharing the Robben Island Museum experience with you.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any specific questions in this regard.

Kind regards

Mr.Mava Dada

Chief Executive Officer

Said Linda Pampallis after a visit to Batavia Boutique Hotel, ‘This is a quirky, lovely Victorian house with a lovely big bedroom, bath and shower room.  I had excellent service from the duty manager Themba who does everything!

This is a great choice for the visitor to Stellenbosch…..so filled with South African history!’.

This 5 Star boutique hotel in Stellenbosch offers accommodation to the discerning traveller to the Cape Winelands of South Africa with all the grandeur of a classical 19th century guesthouse with all the modern conveniences and 5 star service.

Each guest is welcomed to Batavia Boutique Hotel in an atmosphere of cordiality and full respect for the complete privacy and comfort in this unique boutique hotel in the centre of Stellenbosch village life.

Peartree Photography | 160505 Batavia Boutique Hotel, Stellenbosch | http://peartree.co.za/blog/

Peartree Photography | 160506 Batavia Boutique Hotel, Stellenbosch | http://peartree.co.za/blog/

The hotel is ideally situated in the heart of the historic town of Stellenbosch and is within walking distance of the Stellenbosch Museum, Moederkerk and a wealth of trend-setting galleries such as Porchie’s Red Teapot Gallery, award-winning restaurants and many social cafés and pubs.

Tokara Restaurant – Views

Tokara Restaurant – Gorgeous interior

Delaire Graff Restaurant

Tokara Restaurant – spectacular setting

Visit our Customer Zone Delicious Dining recommendations for details of these restaurants in the Stellenbosch area.  http://zone.thompsonsafrica.com/delicious-dining/1

Accommodation is in a choice of either Luxury and Superior rooms.

To view rates and information about Batavia Boutique Hotel, click here.  For more information or to make a booking at Batavia Boutique Hotel, contact a Thompsons Africa Travel Expert today.

When I get to travel around Africa, I always try and picture it being my first time…..to experience the emotions of what a first time traveller might be thinking, stepping onto the tarmacs of Africa … And although I can’t recall how many times I have landed in Victoria falls, I can say that the same excited feeling returns each time and I am completely envious of the first time traveller.

To sum up the beauty of Victoria Falls….  The Zambezi River, which is the 4^th largest in Africa’s, rises in the Woodlands of Zambia and travels for 2 574kms through Zambia, Angola, Zimbabwe and finally through Mozambique emptying into the Indian Ocean. For 500kms it forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Together they share the most famous point, the Victoria Falls. While it is neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls is classified as the largest, based on its combined width of 1,708 metres and height of 108 metres – resulting in the world’s largest sheet of falling water.

Not forgetting that the sheer vastness of the Zambezi River and its long course, is simply beautiful and incredibly tranquil, watching the daily life of its inhabitants and the locals living off the river, is most fascinating thing to watch and learn.  Nothing is interrupted by modern technology. It daily life in its simplest form and everyone is out to survive the day.

Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) is without question becoming the central hub for the region binding Chobe, Livingstone and Victoria Falls together…. something it has been aiming to achieve.  With the new airport up and running, this is slowly but surely becoming a reality and perhaps even starting to take some traffic away from OR Tambo International Airport as a result of SA Airlink and Kenyan Airways’ direct Cape Town/Vic Falls Routing.   There are several new lodges opening up and its truthfully quite often hard to keep up with how much is happening – all being good news!

This destination is becoming far more than just a 2 or 3 night stop. Time permitting it makes for a great itinerary to spend at least 2 to 3 days based in/or around town, exploring the Falls and tackling some of the adventures on hand as well as experiencing the local cuisines and getting to know the locals and being immersed into their day to day lives – than heading off to Zambezi National Park for a 3 night stay exploring the river and the reserve.  This makes for a great combo package.

Accommodation wise, Victoria Falls has something for everyone no matter the preference or budget.  Whether backpacking at hostels or looking for a stay in a glamorous 5 star lodge privately located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, the options are limitless.

The development of 5 star lodges in and around town is creating quote a buzz.  Currently you have the following:

Elephant Camp:  This lodge is a luxury tented camp located in the woodlands of the Victoria Falls National Park giving a bush experience but with breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls mist and its horizons.  About 20 minute drive from town.

Stanley and Livingstone: This lodge is located in the 6 000 hectare Victoria Falls Private Reserve bordering the Zambezi National Park and around a 10 minute drive from the town centre  – 16 luxury suites offer an authentic bush experience.

Gorges Lodge/Little Gorges Lodge: A 30 minute drive from town, located on the Batoka Gorge, you will find 10 thatched chalets.  Gorges Lodge and 5 luxury tents, Little Gorge is located in one of the most scenic and spectacular locations.

Victoria Falls Hotel: This grand and historic hotel has a prime location overlooking the Falls and is perfect for strolling around town. The Stable Wing and up is perfect for the guest looking for high end accommodation. Its recently been refurbished and looking lovely.

Ilala Lodge – Again the position of this hotel is perfect for The Falls and being amongst the buzz of town.   Their deluxe and executive rooms are top of the range.   I recently had dinner at Ilala Lodge and we had elephants come strolling past – safe distance away but lovely to hear these gentle giants quietly pass by.

Of course all the hotels offer great dining options whether included or additional.  It’s well worth it to venture into town too as there are several fabulous vibey restaurants around – some great new options with some offering live jazz or local bands:

• Shearwater Café
• Three Monkeys
• Zambezi House
• The Lookout Café
• Rainforest Café
• The Boma

Then you have the Zambezi National Park – this conservation park belongs to Government and is around 56 000 hectares in size.  The border to the north is the Zambezi River so guests can enjoy either a game drive or canoe trip/sundowner cruises.  The drive from Victoria Falls town is around 20 minutes to the gate of the Zambezi National Park.  Just to sit on your private deck and take in the beauty of the river is enough on its own.  A good book, sunscreen, a hat and definitely binoculars is all you need to complete an incredibly experience and the opportunity to take in the sounds and sights of the river in absolute silence.

• The Zambezi River is home to 75 species of fish, including bream and tigerfish
• The Zambezi National Park is home to a vast range of wildlife: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, sable antelope, eland, waterbuck, and smaller wildlife

Luxury lodges found within the park situated alongside the Zambezi River are the following:

Victoria Falls River Lodge:  This lodge offers 8 Luxury Tents and 5 Family tents – breathtakingly beautifully done – tented with private decks and plunge pools.  Very spacious rooms.

Victoria Falls Island Suites:  Brand new camp opened up opposite Victoria Falls River Lodge on a private island. Rooms are built on stilts.  All with plunge pools overlooking the river – gently decorated in natural colours and local flavours of Africa.

Zambezi Sands:  Further down the river is Zambezi Sands – around 1 hour from town. 8 secluded Bedouin luxury tents and activities offered include game drives. Boat cruises, fishing, canoeing and walks.

Chundu Island:  Chundu Island is a private island around 1.4 long.  This new lodge will be ready around 01 November 2017.   It is being created with as much natural resources and minimum interruption to the surroundings.  Rooms are built on raised wooden decks – and covered by a double wall of canvas with generous window space, ensuring panoramic views.  Palm thatched roofs complete the island ambience. There are 6 suites and 2 family suites.

Great Plains – Great Plains have taken over the site of Wild Frontiers Pioneer Camp – currently it’s just a site and construction will start in the next few months – hoping for opening around April 2018.

Both black and white rhino populations in South Africa are under serious threat due to poaching. This barbaric and illegal practice has sky rocketed since 2008, increasing from an average of ten to twenty rhinos poached a year to a devastating 668 in 2012 to over 1054 in 2016 (WESSA’s Rhino Poaching Stats). The dramatic increase in poaching incidents is directly related to the incredibly high black market value for the horn, which is used for various medicinal and ornamental purposes.

Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) have experienced first-hand the heart-break and devastation as a result of rhino poaching after their beloved hand-reared rhinos, Ronnie and Lahliwe, were killed by poachers in 1994.  ‘On 30 August 2013, when a reserve discovered that poachers had struck them and three of their rhinos had been darted and dehorned, we stepped in to offer our expertise and a home for the treatment and protection of the two female rhinos that had survived. Unfortunately, the bull rhino was not as fortunate.’

‘Due to this increase in the number of rhinos killed, it has become essential for us to expand our current facilities. And in so doing, we will provide land, facilities as well as support in the rescue, relocation and care of orphaned, traumatised and injured rhinos.  At such a critical time, each and every individual rhino becomes important to ensure that sufficient animals are protected to conserve the genetic viability of the species. It is essential l that wounded and orphaned rhinos are given a second chance, whatever the cost.’

All funds raised through their Rhino Fostering Program are channeled directly into the Rescued Rhinos @ HESC, South Africa.

On a visit to Hoedspruit recently, Linda stopped in at the Rescued Rhinos @ HESC and spent time with Head Curator Christo Schreiber and Assistant Curator Linri Janse van Rensburg who she described as being ‘super professional‘.

A curators role is immense….. they check the rhino enclosures daily in the morning before opening and at the end of the day again, making sure there is enough water and lucern (require double the amount of lucern in winter months).  They are responsible for rhino vet check-ups for both baby orphans and victims.  The orphans each have their own bottle feeding times depending on their ages and on arrival they are monitored and accompanied by a curator through-out the night.  The youngsters are fed every three hours which gradually becomes less often as they get older.  In cases of rhino victims,  regular post-operative care procedures are required.  All the rhinos are in different enclosures, each of which is vast, ensuring as natural an environment as possible.

It may not be attractive but it IS necessary for their safety!

Linda with HESC Curators

Our partners and friends Goway Travel have partnered with Thompsons Africa to support this worthy initiative and we were so proud to have been a part of the handover of a cheque to the value of ZAR 80 000.00 by Goway Travel to Rescued Rhinos @ HESC at Indaba 2017.

If you’d like to partner with us and play a part in saving the rhino, contact Viki Haasbroek on email viki.haasbroek@thompsonsafrica.co.za for more details on how you can do this.

The one and only ‘Cape show’, ‘Kaapse Stories from the Mother City’, is played at this vibrant Cape themed dinner theatre venue in Greenpoint, transporting the audience into the colourful and exciting world of the Cape, paired with a great spectrum of the wonderful culinary delights that Cape Town has to offer.

Local theatre legend, ‘Basil Apollis’ directs the show.  With the unique humour, intoxicating rhythms and soulful songs that celebrate the challenges and triumphs of the people of Cape Town, this quality entertainment experience gives you an inspiring insight into the ‘Rainbow Nation’ of Cape Town told through the stories of the Kleintjies family.

Loved by locals and visitors alike, a translated synopsis of the show into 13 different languages is provided so nothing ‘gets lost in translation’.

Linda Pampallis, CEO Thompsons Africa recently spent an evening at the dinner theatre with our partner and friend Mr. Noguchi.  She shared a video with us https://youtu.be/GK4v7MzR1rE

To view rates and more details about this day tour experience, click here http://www.myvirtualpaper.com/doc/thompsons-africa/day_tours_activities_2018/2017050701/#16

Introducing the NEW Featherbed Eco Tour

In recent devastating fires, one of Knysna’s biggest tourist attractions, the Featherbed Nature Reserve suffered severe damage.  Most notably, the fynbos and coastal forest on the famous Featherbed has completely burned down and will take approximately two years to renew itself.

This is a natural occurrence for fynbos, a fire-adapted vegetation which relies on regular burning for its endurance.  Without fire, fynbos is actually replaced by thicket/brush growth!  Fire has a positive impact on fynbos in that it aids in germination and also acts as a mineralising agent and destroys alien vegetation.

And while we wait for the regrowth and renewal of the fynbos, Featherbed Nature Reserve are delighted to advise that they have put together a NEW alternative Featherbed Eco Tour which will continue to give customers a great experience in this beautiful lagoon and area.  The company’s three restaurants are still fully operational as are the boat cruises on the John Benn, Paddle Cruiser and Heads Explorer Catamaran.

Featherbed Eco Tour:

Enjoy a lagoon cruise on board either the John Benn or Paddle Cruiser, with educational commentary, before tucking into a delicious lunch at one of 3 restaurants (Cruise Café Restaurant, Bazala South African Dining or WHE+ Taste Experience) which includes 4 oysters and a glass of sparkling wine.

Paddle Cruiser Description:

The Paddle Cruiser is South Africa’s only paddle-driven vessel, offering a unique and unforgettable experience and fine dining experience on the Knysna Lagoon. Featuring contemporary decor with great ambience, guests enjoy the splendour of  magnificent 360° lagoon views while enjoying cocktails, oysters, bubbly and exquisite sunsets.

Daily cruises accompanied with educational commentary focussing on the history of Knysna, natural surrounds and rehabilitation process of the indigenous fynbos, fauna and forests.

John Benn Description:

The MV John Benn is a fully enclosed legendary double-decker floating restaurant offering a memorable family activity on the Knysna Lagoon.  Cruise to the Knysna Heads, on a boat steeped in history, named after a legendary pilot of a bygone era.  This comfortable and cosy vessel with a classic wooden finish, offers friendly and hospitable service.  Local beer and sparkling wine is served from the full service bars on board.

Daily cruises accompanied with educational commentary focussing on the history of Knysna, natural surrounds and rehabilitation process of the indigenous fynbos, fauna and forests.

Contact a Thompsons Africa Travel Expert for more details or to book now.

Linda spent a relaxing few days at Camp Jabulani located in Hoedspruit on the Kapama Game Reserve.

Said Linda of her time at Camp Jabulani, ‘A beautiful property and moving experiences with their elephant rescue story.  Camp Jabulani is a gem.’

Arriving at Camp Jabulani…. The baggage vehicle, safari vehicle transfer and on to the lodge

Camp Jabulani is a five-star Relais & Chateaux accredited luxury lodge, offering an extraordinary African experience.
This is the unique tale of a herd of elephants, rescued from certain death shortly after the turn of the century.  Camp Jabulani was created to support the herd.

Walking home…… The stunning elephants of Camp Jabulani walking to their stables at sunset.  A most glorious sight…

Visitors have the exclusive opportunity of interacting with the herd, seeing
them swimming at the waterhole and roaming free in the bush.

Elephant swim…. what a delight!

Other activities include safari drives on the 17000 hectare Big Five Kapama Reserve, bush walks and an exclusive visit to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC).  Hot air ballooning is available at an additional cost.
Six private suites each have a deck and plunge pool. Families or groups will appreciate the stand-alone Zindoga Villa (children welcome). There is an on-site gym and spa.

Stunning rooms, afternoon sun and swims

Visitors can also expect exceptional cuisine, combined with fine wines and a variety of dining venues.

Good morning!  Breakfast time … a beautiful atmosphere and great air

The public area of this most gorgeous lodge…. The passion is felt everywhere!

Camp Jabulani’s Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre is available to guests and is just 30 minutes away (by safari vehicle).  Guests are able to experience the projects undertaken by the HESC including an opportunity to experience cheetah and vulture…. up close and personal.

Experience Camp Jabulani and Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre yourself.

Wildlife Conservation Experience with Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES

SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES

For the young and young at heart who are passionate about conservation and not afraid to get their hands dirty….., Camp Jabulani’s Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre offers an 8 night wildlife conservation experience.  Read More

Contact your Thompsons Africa Travel Expert for more information or to make a booking.

So named the Big Five due to their notoriety as the most difficult and most dangerous animals to hunt on foot in Africa, the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) were also once little…..

Cute right?!  Who could resist?

One of the top reasons people visit Africa is for the once in a lifetime chance to view the Big Five…

We’ve done the work for you and put together a selection of Big Five safari focused packages.  Visit the Customer Zone for these and other packages

We previously wrote about changes afoot at Camp Jabulani (https://thompsonsafricadbn.wordpress.com/2016/05/31/camp-jabulani-review-of-elephant-experience/) ….and more specifically around their elephant back safaris.

Well, the time has arrived and on 01 April, Camp Jabulani will move away from elephant-back safaris to a more immersive interactive experience.

So what does this all mean?

Camp Jabulani has shared some information and answers to frequently asked questions which we share with you below.  In the words of Camp Jabulani, ‘The very word ‘evolution’ implies progression, and this is exactly what the new experience is all about. It is important to understand that we are losing nothing. We are enhancing the quality of the time spent with our elephants, for a more immersive interaction where man and elephant meet one another on equal terms.’.

• The First Meeting: A personal orientation with the Jabulani ‘mascots’

This first interaction, directly at the Lodge, is always a very powerful one where emotive bonds are instantly made. Guests also meet the elephant keepers, each of whom has a fascinating story to tell about his unique and touching journey with the elephants. During this interaction, visitors have the opportunity to touch and feed the elephants, and to have photographs taken in very close proximity.

• In Their Element: Elephants swim at the waterhole

This is one of the most popular aspects of the current Elephant Experience, and is one which will remain unchanged through the transition. Guests are transferred to one of the waterholes on the reserve to watch the elephants enjoying their daily swim. This is when their really playful nature comes out and to see them splashing, spraying and trumpeting is simply delightful. This is an excellent opportunity to capture some very special photographs and videos!

• Following Gigantic Footsteps: Elephant tracking

Guests will join a senior trails guide, a senior elephant keeper and their ranger to track the Jabulani elephants within the Big Five Kapama Private Game Reserve. Tracking takes place from the comfort of a safari vehicle. Under the guidance of the Jabulani team, guests learn how to use their senses to find the animals out in their natural habitat. Once the herd have been located, the afternoon is spent watching them and hearing more about the their individual stories, their personalities and how to identify them.

• Sunset and Goodnight: The stable experience

Guests meet up with the elephant herd as they enjoy their last drink at the dam at sunset. A very special moment, where the view is as beautiful as the sight of the animals in such a relaxed and contented space. As the herd makes its way back to the stables, guests follow at a short distance (although Jabulani likes to linger behind with ‘the humans’).

The Jabulani Stables are unique as they have been custom designed and built for the herd. The Elephant Manager will explain the stable layout, how it is cleaned and refreshed on a daily basis, and how the elephants are grouped into camps (based on their preferences), highlighting the relationship clusters that have formed within the herd. A particular treat is watching the babies at their bedtime!

• Getting ‘In The Know’: Elephant research in practice

Did you know that an elephant’s stress levels can be established and monitored through its dung? We have been conducting research for the last year, in an effort to understand the physiological and behavioral impact that human interactions have on the Jabulani herd. Although it sounds simple, it’s an intensive and really fascinating process, based on the comparison between free-ranging elephants on the reserve, and the semi-captive animals in the herd.

Guests join their ranger on a safari vehicle or on foot to search for elephant dung on the reserve. After hearing more about the sampling process, they get the chance to conduct their own research.

Questions?

• Why are the rates not reducing if you are losing elephant-back safaris?

The evolved Jabulani Elephant Experience is a more interactive one, where more time is spent with the elephants in their natural environment. Nothing is ‘lost’ with the termination of the elephant-back safaris. On the contrary, we are confident that the new experience will be a more enriching one.

• When do the daily elephant interactions occur? And what else can guests do?

Interactions usually occur from mid to late afternoon. Guests may also enjoy morning and afternoon game drives on the Big Five reserve; guided bush walks; spa treatments; a visit to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre; or simple relaxation around their private plunge pools.

• Where do elephant interactions occur?

The venue is different each day, and no two days are the same. Interactions take place either at the lodge, out in the bush or at the stables.

• How do I sell Camp Jabulani to my clients?

The Jabulani Elephant Experience is the only of its kind, where guests get to interact closely and very personally with a semi-captive herd in a natural Big Five reserve. Beyond being a life-changing experience, guests also contribute to the survival of the herd. This experience exists to sustain the elephants.

Camp Jabulani is a proud Relais and Chateaux accredited luxury lodge which offers an intimate five-star leisure experience with a strong focus on superb cuisine, personalized service, impeccable accommodation (6 Luxury Suites and the exclusive Zindoga Villa) and conservation.

• Is the Camp Jabulani story a success story? What is it about the Jabulani herd that is unique?

Camp Jabulani’s proudest achievement doesn’t only lie in the successful rescue of a herd of orphaned elephants in 1996 from strife-torn Zimbabwe, nor in the the intensive rehabilitation of tiny elephant calf, Jabulani (who is also the namesake of the herd). Our success rather lies in our dedicated 20-year journey through which invaluable experience has been gained, enabling us to evolve and refine a successful model of rescued elephant care, with specific focus on infant rehabilitation.

The unique background of the rescued elephants resulted in the establishment of a positive atypical family structure for the Jabulani herd. There are strong ties between both male and female animals, and clearly established matriarchs have assumed responsibility for all infants – their own (5 babies were born to the herd), as well as new orphans. A number of babies have arrived over the last five years, and they’ve been successfully introduced to the herd with minimal human intervention. We’ve come to realize that the Jabulani rescued elephants themselves are the perfect solution, and have plans into the future to continue to help to rescue and rehabilitate elephants in need.

And there you have it….  At Thompsons Africa we are proud Camp Jabulani supporters so we would like to wish them the very best in their new and extremely exciting adventure!

Contact a Thompsons Africa travel expert for more information or to make a booking.