Cape Town is home to Table Mountain, one of the 7 Wonders of the World and can be seen as far as 200 kilometres out to sea. Affectionately known as the Mother City, Cape Town is historically, culturally and visually, the most diverse, breathtakingly scenic and vibrant city you’ll have had the pleasure to visit!

And if you’re a foodie or you have guests who are….  its also a foodies delight!

Food plays an integral part of any magical journey.  These activities will take any Cape Town experience to new heights….

Foodies on Foot

Tastes of the Township

– Bo-Kaap –
Get to know aspects of the cultural diversity that Cape Town has to offer on this interactive guided walk through the historical heart of the Bo-Kaap with a mini shopping safari.  The focus lies on the Cape Muslim people with their South-East Asian heritage, their culture, their community and their food and links between these. Stop at a local spice shop and halaal butcher, interacting with locals and discovering typical Malay ingredients. The highlight?  Visit a local family’s home and participate in a hands-on fun-filled cooking session and demonstration before savouring a full traditional lunch or dinner!

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Delicious Dining

We have also put together a collection of suggested dining options sure to tickle your taste buds!  But don’t take our word for it…..check it out for yourself!

http://zone.thompsonsafrica.com/delicious-dining/1

You asked and they’ve delivered!  Due to popular demand, traditional afternoon tea at the iconic Beverly Hills is back!

Launched on Friday 3 February 2017, afternoon tea will be held every Friday and Saturday afternoon at The Sugar Club, Beverly Hills from 14h30 to 16h30.

Guests can expect a classic high tea selection of savouries, including ribbon sandwiches of smoked salmon and cucumber, prawn-mousse profiteroles, mini quiches and wraps.

For those with a sweeter tooth, their decadent sweets include fresh scones with cream and strawberry preserves, pastries, chocolate brownies and cupcakes.

Sit back and relax while a violinist adds to your five star decadent experience…

If you have guests staying at Beverly Hills, make sure they have a booking (due to its popularity, bookings are essential).  Contact your Thompsons Africa Travel Expert for more details.

Described as probably the biggest thing to happen to Cape Town in 2017, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) will open its doors on 23 September 2017.

The first major museum in Africa dedicated to contemporary art, Zeitz MOCAA is a public not-for-profit cultural institution.  They describe their mission as being ‘To collect, preserve, research, and exhibit cutting edge contemporary art from Africa and its Diaspora, to develop supporting educational and enrichment programs for all, to encourage intercultural understanding and guarantee access for all.’.

Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, Zeitz MOCAA was established through a partnership between the V&A Waterfront and Jochen Zeitz.

A number of Africa’s greatest works of arts have been ‘hidden away’ and inaccessible to the public.  Until now that is….. The opening of Zeitz MOCAA is set to change all of that.  Now everyone can enjoy African creativity in an incredible, historic building, the Grain Silo at V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.

The Silo Hotel in Cape Town

Housed in the grain elevator portion of the historic grain silo complex occupying six floors above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) is The Silo Hotel.

The Silo Hotel will have 28 rooms, including a spectacular one bedroom penthouse.

Opening on 1 March 2017, The Silo is featured in our Customer Zone, Tailor Made Luxury Collection.  View THE SILO – A Magical Space and if your guests book and stay from 23 September 2017, they could be some of the first to view and experience the Zeitz MOCAA, a contemporary art museum said to rival the likes of the Tate Modern in London, MoMA in New York and Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid.

A Royal Affair

– Cape Town – Botswana – Victoria Falls –

UNBEATABLE SPECIAL. SAVE USD735 PER PERSON PER PACKAGE.  BOOK NOW!

Voted Number 1 City in the World, Cape Town is home to Table Mountain, one of the 7 Wonders of the World and can be seen as far as 200 kilometres out to sea. Affectionately known as the Mother City, Cape Town is historically, culturally and visually, the most diverse, breathtakingly scenic and vibrant city you’ll have had the pleasure to visit! From its achingly beautiful natural attributes to its colourful culture; from decadent wine farms to captivating history and architecture – it’s tourist heaven.

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, the Delta is unlike anything else you’ll have seen or experienced.  This legendary inland waterway slices sinuously through a large part of Botswana, creating an area of unimaginable natural splendour. Millions of litres of water reach miraculously into this part of the Kalahari Desert, infinitely enriching an environment that supports an incredible diversity of mammal, fish and bird life.  Meander slowly through the watery courses in a traditional canoe or Mokoro, or travel over land in an open safari vehicle.

One of the original natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls is a World Heritage Site and an extremely popular tourism attraction. Known locally as ‘The Smoke that Thunders’ this spectacle is accessible from both Zambia and Zimbabwe and it is an ideal place to combine a game viewing and water sports. There is excellent fishing, a terrifying bungee jump and arguably the best commercial white water rafting in the world.

AT A GLANCE

Private Return transfers between Cape Town International Airport and The Silo
3 Nights at The Silo, Silo Room – Accommodation, full English breakfast, limited mini bar, access to Fitness and Spa facilities, parking, Museum entrance, sunset experience and WiFi
Private Full Day Peninsula Tour – Including entrance fees to Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and a 4 course lunch at The Foodbarn
Private Full Day Winelands Tour – Including lunch at Babel Restaurant at Babylonstoren – Restaurant is open from Wed to Sun (Reservations open two months in advance)
Light Aircraft Flight from Maun International Airport to Eagle Island Camp
3 Nights at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, Luxury Room – Accommodation, all meals: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, all drinks, teas, coffees, soft drinks, house wines, local beer and a select list of spirits, daily laundry services, two game viewing activities per day, Botswana National park fees, emergency medical evacuation insurance.
Light Aircraft Flight from Eagle Island Lodge to Kasane Airport
Private One Way transfer from Kasane Airport to Royal Livingstone Hotel
2 Nights at Royal Livingstone Hotel, Luxury Room – Bed & Breakfast
Private One Way transfer from Royal Livingstone Hotel to Livingstone International Airport

Valid: 01 Mar 2017 – 31 Oct 2017

Priced from: R21 963 and $4 530 per person

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Imagine an unspoiled island within a Marine National Park, deserted beaches of pure white sand that extend for miles, sparkling turquoise seas crisscrossed by local dhows plying their trade, sunny days and star studded nights…and you have Azura Mozambique.

Linda Pampallis spent some time at Azura Benguerra late last year and described the team of employees as ‘amazing’.

Read Linda’s comments about her experience at Azura Benguerra:

‘The Royal Villa has a very refreshing energy.  It is beautifully decorated in fresh sea breeze and earthy tones, which gives the feeling of escapism and relaxation.  The pool is pure luxury and to dip into any time that you felt like was my best!  I really enjoyed all the different seating areas, all of which were super comfortable and enjoyed lovely views.  The bathroom and dressing area is big and airy.  The additional sitting room cum bedroom was a pleasure to read in and the books left to enjoy were excellent.  All the different dinner venues were most enjoyable and our butler was extremely nice and efficient.  We loved our final dinner on the sand outside our villa.  The food was nothing short of excellent – at every meal we were continuously surprised and delighted.  All the excursions were handled by well trained staff and also thoroughly enjoyable.

Do you get that we enjoyed ourselves?  Oh yes very much!

Thank you to all at Azura  Benguerra for an absolutely memorable visit.  Special thanks to Bridget.’

Azura Benguerra, the first eco-friendly resort in Mozambique, was hand-built by the local community and is operated in partnership with it.  The resort is 10 minutes from Vilanculos Airport by helicopter.

Whether you’re looking for the ideal beach location suitable for family and friends or the ultimate in seclusion and luxury, Azura Benguerra is the perfect destination.  Contact your Thompsons Africa Travel Expert for more information.

Recently visited by Thompsons Africa CEO Linda Pampallis, Founders Lodge was described by Linda as being ‘totally fabulous’ and the General Manager Susie, ‘..just wonderful’.

The private residence of Adrian Gardiner, founder of Mantis Collection and Shamwari Game Reserve, Founders Lodge is situated on a 400 hectare reserve adjacent to, and with traversing rights over, Shamwari Game Reserve.

The 6 en-suite rooms each have their own verandah and king size beds – this is the ultimate in safari lodge luxury!

Located in the malaria free Eastern Cape of South Africa, the Lodge is just 45 minutes drive from Port Elizabeth Airport.  With its incredibly scenic surrounds and inspiration being drawn from the fond memories of Adrian’s friends, family and celebrities who frequented the property, your experience is bound to be a truly private, tailored experience, peppered with personal touches which add to the elegant experience.

Enjoy game drives and other safari based activities on the adjacent Shamwari Game Reserve or take in the lodge general facilities, including lounge, gym, dining room, casual dining terrace, boma and 2 outdoor swimming pools.

If you’re looking for an experience where you’ll feel like a friend…. where you’re invited to take advantage of the care and attention to detail extended to all guests, Founders Lodge should definitely find its way onto your ‘Places to Go’ list.

View rates and other details on our Customer Zone Online Tariff Solution.  Alternatively, get in touch with your Thompsons Africa Travel Expert for more information http://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us.

…….the line where the two oceans meet!???

Cape Point is in the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve within Table Mountain National Park,  which forms part of the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site.

Known as the ‘Cape of Storms’ and so named by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488, it is home to a remarkable selection of flora and fauna.  This is a nature enthusiasts paradise!

Take part in our Half Day Cape Point Tour:

Departs Daily between 07h45 & 08h45 – Returns at ±12h30

Journey along Millionaires Paradise, ogling the glamorous homes and beautiful people of Clifton Beach and Camps Bay, then wind your way towards the charming coastal town and working harbour of Hout Bay. Hug the cliffs as we snake along the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive, with its breathtaking views, towards the Cape of Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park and its rugged, intriguing landscape. Boulders Beach penguin colony, is a fascinating excursion. Finally, move on to the historical naval port of Simon’s Town.

YOUR EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS:
•  Hout Bay
•  Chapmans Peak Drive
•  Cape of Good Hope
•  Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach (optional and for own account)
•  Simon’s Town

http://zone.thompsonsafrica.com/day-tours/1

OUR VEHICLES

Thompsons Africa uses the latest and finest vehicles on the market, including Toyota Corollas, Toyota Quantums, Mercedes Sprinters, Volare Mini Coaches and specially modified open safari vehicles – all with the requisite permits.   We select our vehicles very carefully, against a strict set of criteria, in full knowledge of what our clientele needs and wants.  All vehicles are exceptionally comfortable and spacious, with full air-conditioning throughout and good sound quality when the tour director is speaking.  With headrests, and ample leg and head room, transfers are comfortable, cool and professional.

View all Day Tours http://zone.thompsonsafrica.com/day-tours here or contact a Thompsons Africa Travel Expert today for more information: http://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us

Franschhoek, which is just an hour away from Cape Town, boasts centuries-old vineyards and beautiful Cape Dutch architecture.

The valley, originally known as Olifantshoek (which means Elephant’s Corner) was named after the huge elephant herds that roamed the area.  These majestic giants annual migration wore away a mountain path which became known as Elephants Pass by the locals.  Today, the famous Franschhoek Pass offers breathtaking views over the Franschhoek valley.

The valley is surrounded on three sides by majestic mountain ranges.
Today, it is the famous Franschhoek Pass with its breathtakingly beautiful views over the valley.

Because of the strong French influence on the valley, the settlement became known as Le Quartier Français (the French Quarter) and, later, as Franschhoek (French Corner).

Today with a population of 6 000 in the village and 25 000 in the surrounding valley, the village is one of the world’s great wine and food destinations.

Culture, history and passion…..

Growing conditions in the Franschhoek Valley are ideal for lavandine (lavender) which is grown commercially in the area for both its flowers and oil.

The Huguenot Memorial Museum and neighboring monument honor the area’s French settlers, who arrived in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Franschhoek Motor Museum displays vintage cars amid mountain farmland.

With a myriad of reasons to visit this spectacularly beautiful destination, all that’s left is choosing the perfect place to stay….. Leeu Collection offers the perfect getaway with Le Quarter Français…..

Set in the picturesque village of Franschhoek, in South Africa’s winelands, Leeu Collection gives new meaning to the concept of leisure.

Leeu Collection comprises a number of entities which include three boutique hotels: Leeu Estates – The Home of Leeu, Leeu House – Our hideaway in the village, and Le Quartier Français – A Franschhoek Icon.

Le Quartier Français, a romantic 21 room boutique hotel in Franschhoek village, is home to award-winning restaurant The Tasting Room. The extraordinary staff, opulently comfortable rooms and attention to detail ensure that this auberge is the ultimate destination.

‘The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français is the stage for award-winning chef Margot Janse and her unique, contemporary African-inspired surprise Tasting Menu. Surprise: an emotion that occurs when something breaks our habitual pattern. Here, serious diners have the opportunity to experience a true journey of taste that continues to evolve and astonish. The Tasting Room creates a dining experience unlike any other … one where surprise and nostalgia take centre stage. Interior decorator of The Tasting Room and scenographer by profession, Herbert Janse, says: “In The Tasting Room every dish is engaging; refined with a distinct feminine touch and, at the same time, unexpectedly exciting … exhilarating in fact. It is this contradiction that results in balance of The Tasting Room’s dishes.”‘ – The Tasting Room

Says Linda Pampallis who recently stayed at Le Quartier Francais, ‘LQF, as it is fondly known, is too lovely!  The Tasting Room restaurant is a sensation for the senses! The atmosphere here is so warm and friendly and set in the centre of the jewel of the winelands – a must visit when in Franschoek and even better if you can stay!’

Read more about Le Quartier Francais and view all rates http://www.myvirtualpaper.com/doc/thompsons-africa/preferred-south-africa/2016050601/#48.

Founded in 1723 as a church and market town, the town was built around the large Dutch Reformed Church and served the local sheep farmers.

Today its main economic activities include tourism and sheep farming.  The nearby South African Astronomical Observatory drives much of the tourism to the area and with the perfect climate and location (1450 metres or 4 760 feet above sea level), its no wonder!  Sutherland’s night skies are among the world’s clearest and darkest.  The telescopes of the SAAO are nearby and include the famous SALT telescope (Southern African Large Telescope) – the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere.  If you’ve ever been fascinated by the stars, Sutherland is prime star-gazing destination.

The observatory (SAAO) is based on the design of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope in Texas.  It consists of a primary, hexagonal mirror 11 metres wide, made up of 91 individual hexagonal mirrors, each, one metre wide and weighing about 100 kilograms!

‘This great eye probing the universe is sensitive enough to pick up the light of a single candle on the moon – but its main job is to scan deep space, witnessing the birth and death of planets, gazing into distant galaxies and recording the scale and age of the universe, stars, galaxies and quasars billions of light years away. 

The telescope cost about US$30 million, of which South Africa contributed a third and international partners the balance.

Amateur star-gazers can set up their own telescopes at the nearby visitors’ centre.’

[Source: http://www.discoversutherland.co.za%5D

Stargazing

Fully guided day and night tours are available to the public from Monday to Saturday but visitors cannot visit any of the research telescopes at night, not even SALT.  Astronomy is a light sensitive science and no lights are allowed up on the plateau in the evenings making it impossible to see anything at all.

Linda Pampallis (CEO Thompsons Africa) recently visited Sutherland and described it as ‘simply stunning!!’.

While there, Linda stayed at Skitterland Guesthouse and explored the town of Sutherland which she describes as ‘simply stunning!’.

Skitterland Guesthouse houses five luxury suites (Sagittarius, Aries, Libra, Taurus and Hibernia) which are equipped with plasma screen satellite television (except Sagittarius and Libra), heaters, under floor heating and coffee facilities.  In each suite there are electric blankets, down duvets and woollen blankets.

The first four suites pay homage to the item that put Sutherland on the world map, namely SALT or Southern African Large Telescope.  The latter is called Hibernia in honour of the original name of the building.

Contact a Thompsons Africa Travel Expert for more information.

For over 20 years, Abu Camp has offered its guests a rare African experience of walking and interacting with elephants in the wild.  Located within the vast 180 000-hectare (450 000-acre) Abu Concession, a pristine, exclusive wilderness in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, guests can closely observe and interact with the Abu Herd and learn about wildlife and habitat conservation from guides, elephant experts and researchers.  Following an extensive review of its programme and in compliance with recent government directives, as of 31 December 2016, Abu Camp will no longer allow guests to ride elephants.  The Camp will continue to focus its programme on respectful, less intrusive forms of elephant interaction and education consistent with the highest industry standards, including its immersive walking-based experience.

The Abu elephant programme focuses on the full elephant conservation experience, offering guests and families the unique opportunity to spend time with the Abu Herd, walking with them through the bush, observing them up close in the wild and getting to know their individual characters, while most importantly learning more about the importance of elephant conservation from local guides and researchers.

Abu Camp has received worldwide recognition for its innovative work with orphaned and rejected elephants who have come together to form the Abu Herd.  This herd of personalities, from matriarch Cathy to naughty youngest, Naledi, forms the heart of the interactive elephant experience, where guests meet, walk and intermingle with the animals. Abu is a place that concentrates on the broader and more meaningful element of elephant conservation and involves its guests in these efforts.  The Camp’s vision has always been to care for these abused or orphaned elephants and, where possible, to return these elephants that have spent much of their life in captivity back into the African wild. The movements and behaviour of the reintroduced elephants are studied by scientists in the wild, thus contributing significantly to our understanding of the conservation issues that the species faces. Since the inception of Abu Camp, nine elephants have been successfully reintroduced into the wild.

Its quite astonishing to think that the Etosha pan is visible even from space!  It speaks volumes for the sheer vastness of this destination as a whole……

Largely untouched by modern man, Namibia is a land of vast quietness, endless horizons, wide star-studded skies, golden deserts and intriguing rocky plains…..  And of course, the Etosha Pan.  This vast, open expanse of shimmering white covers around 4,800km².  That is close to a 1/4 of the whole of the beautiful Etosha National Park!  It is the largest salt pan in Africa.  Originally a lake, it is believed to have formed more than 100 million years ago!

Must Do

• Explore the oldest desert on earth, with some of the loftiest sand dunes, colouring from pale apricot to deepest red.
• Watch the enchanting springbok dancing across the mirage-shimmering Etosha Pan.
• Spend a delightful day in the quaint seaside town of Swakopmund, the adventure capital of Namibia and starting point for trips up and down the coast.
• Stand awe-struck by the Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world.
• See the mysterious, ancient Bushman/San paintings at Twyfelfontein.
• Marvel at the desert-adapted elephant and rhino in Damaraland.

Day Tour Experiences

From a romantic out of Africa experience in a hot air balloon floating over the Namib Desert to a luxuriously decadent champagne and oyster experience, we have a number of Day Tours to choose from to take your Namibia experience from ‘great’ to ‘superb’!

View all Day Tour experiences

We’ve Done the Work For You

Tailor-made is defined as made to order, bespoke or custom made.  At Thompsons Africa we love arranging tailor-made packages….it’s our ability to do so that makes us experts in our field.

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In Conclusion…