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We adopted Esme in September last year after inviting you to assist us by voting for who YOU thought we should adopt.

Esme is the youngest rhino orphan at Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC).  Her mother was a young and inexperienced cow who couldn’t produce milk for Esme.  On arrival she was extremely malnourished.  Esme was the first rhino calf introduced to an Anatolian Sheperd dog, Dawid, as a companion. It took a few days but as soon as the two were used to each other the relationship was remarkable and unbreakable.  Esme has a loving soft soul and has been one of the most relaxed calves at the Centre – just wanting love and attention every chance she gets.

Today we are very happy to report that she is doing really well!  Esme has moved to a new temporary boma while her own boma undergoes maintenance and an upgrade.  She loves her walks around the HESC grounds during the day with her pedi-sheep friends, Mielie and Nungu.  Esme also gets daily visits from Dawid, the Anatolian Shepherd dog.

Apparently mud baths are a firm favorite, together with chasing any passing vehicle!

 

When Esme first arrived at HESC, she weighed in at a TINY 56 kg.  Today, Esme is so big she can’t be weighed and is estimated at around 700 to 800 kg!

We look forward to watching her progress and cannot wait for the day that she is able to join her friends who have already been released, including Gertjie, our first adopted rhino.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant at any time for assistance.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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

 

Not that long ago we shared a story reassuring concerned people across the world that The Falls had NOT dried up as had been shared by some media reports.  Now this month, in a stunning display, The Victoria Falls has reached its highest flow in a decade!

Zambezi River Authority public relations and communications manager Elizabeth Karonga said the high water levels were due to a significant increase in both rainfall and run-off in the catchment area upstream of Victoria Falls during the current rainfall season.

Authority data shows four times more water is now flowing over the world’s largest waterfall than at this time last year.  On April 20, 3,922 cubic metres per second was recorded compared to 1,007 cubic metres per second on April 20, 2019.

In an ironic twist of fate, no one is able to witness this incredible spectacle.  With a worldwide lockdown, The Victoria Falls rainforest is closed to guests.

Said Ross Kennedy of Africa Albida Tourism, our friend and partner in the industry, ‘It has been quite some time since anyone witnessed the majesty and intensity of this level of water flowing over the Victoria Falls, with the last period of such floods being ten years ago.

What a sad and disappointing irony it is, that at this time that one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World is at its absolute finest, the world is in lockdown and very few if any will get to witness or experience this iconic destination in all its splendour.’

‘But, of course, nature being what it is, Victoria Falls will flood again and will be there to impress, enthrall and excite many millions of tourists in the decades ahead’, he added.

The Victoria Falls is expected to continue to rise in coming weeks and peak at the end of May this year.

Africa Albida Tourism shared this incredible drone footage of The Falls.  We wish we could be there!

On 22 April we celebrate Earth Day, an annual event celebrated around the world to demonstrate support for environmental protection.  The irony of this date during what is an almost complete WORLD lock down is not lost on us.

Do you know the reasons Earth Day was started?  Have you heard the story of its 50 year journey?  Have you thought about what we can do better when the world starts ‘turning’ again?  Why is World Earth Day even more important now than ever before?

Thompsons Africa is proud to be part of a joint initiative by The Travel Corporation family of brands, called The TreadRight Foundation — a not-for-profit that works to ensure that the environment and communities we explore, remain vibrant for future generations.

Ambassador for The TreadRight Foundation, Celine Cousteau, will be on Instagram Live on Wednesday 22 April at 12pm EST to address these and other questions and concerns.  Its bound to be an especially interesting session!

Add this event to your diary:

Wednesday 22 April at 12pm EST

https://www.instagram.com/treadright/

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant at any time for assistance.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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

 

 

While we’re all perhaps going a little crazy stuck in our homes and unable to see our colleagues, friends and family, it’s incredibly exciting to witness some of the scenes of nature out and about.

We LONG to be able to travel again.

But while we patiently wait, we can at least share some of the sweet (and dramatic) animal and nature adventures happening around Southern Africa right now.

In Langebaan on the West Coast of the Western Cape, a local resident filmed this incredible footage of sea gulls feeding on sardines.

https://youtu.be/ayJBHmR1_Wo

In Skukuza, east of Hazyview in Mpumalanga, lion (and a sneaky hyena) have been photographed chilling on the golf course!

Or how about an incredibly cute family of foxes at Vergelegen wine estate in Somerset West.  Cape fox have stable populations all over Southern Africa, but its still rare to spot them as they tend to be very shy.  Vergelegen staff have been delighted to encounter an entire family – two adults and three pups ‒ right on their doorstep.

Something more dramatic?  In Botswana, the Okavango River is overflowing!⁣⁣  After a year of droughts, take a look at the magnificent pictures below.

⁣⁣The flood is making its way inland everyday, bringing in much needed hope, life and restoration.⁣⁣

Desert & Delta Safaris shared this fabulous view from the air.  This is the Okavango Delta en route to Camp Moremi and Camp Xakanaxa.

And at andBeyond’s Nxabega Okavango Delta Camp, Botswana, the water is also beginning to seep towards Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp  further south.

CUTE ALERT!

The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) says its rangers currently have their hands full to keep African penguins from wandering into the quiet streets during the national lockdown.

 

While there have been some bizarre (but seriously entertaining) fake claims of nature and wildlife healing, these are GENUINE pictures and scenes.  We can’t wait for the day we’re able to turn guests’ dreams into a reality.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant at any time for assistance.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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

These are NEXT level mouthwatering!  The Red Carnation Hotel Collection South Africa has shared an iconic recipe for a main meal from each of their South African hotels.  And since its the weekend, it seems the perfect time to give them a try…

From The Oyster Box, we give you Chef Kevin’s Lamb Curry….  YUM!

When visiting The Oyster Box, you cannot miss their Chef’s Table experience.

The Chef’s Table

If you’re a foodie looking for something a little ‘out of the ordinary’, need a unique event menu, or are keen to impress somebody special – then don’t miss the opportunity to take a front row seat with Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and his ace Team, for an extraordinary dining experience at The Chef’s Table in The Kitchen at The Oyster Box.

Your evening begins in the elegant Oyster Bar with pre-dinner drinks and live music from our resident musician, before being taken ‘behind the scenes’ where your culinary journey begins, with a tour of the working kitchen and your amuse bouche of Champagne and Canapes.

As the drama of this busy kitchen in ‘full service’ mode unfolds, watch as the Chefs prepare a delicious 5-course paired menu before your eyes.

From The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, we give you Mrs T’s Chicken Curry…

This is one of Mrs Bea Tollman’s signature dishes and easy enough for you to try at home.  Delicious!

 

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa offer a number of unique dining experiences including romantic picnics, Tea by the Sea, Vegan High Tea, Blockbuster Birthday Parties and more.  They describe their dining experiences as being inspired by the fynbos and its not hard to see why considering their sensational views of the National Park.

And finally, from Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, Chef Charles’s Bobotie.

Bobotie (Afrikaans) is a well-known South African dish consisting of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping.

Bushmans Kloof’s Extraordinary Dining experiences are a variety of venues and eating styles created here for an utterly unforgettable experience of food, wilderness and life. Whether it’s a picnic on the banks of a sparkling river, or a lavish dinner at a secluded cottage deep in the reserve, their passionate staff will ensure your meal is a special experience.

All of these recipes are available in printable format so please drop me an email on viki.haasbroek@thompsonsafrica.co.za if you’d like me to send them to you.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant at any time for assistance.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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

We miss each other a LOT…  We’re sure you miss your colleagues, friends and family too…

A few of our colleagues shared some pictures of themselves, either on their own, or with their lock down ‘inmates’.  🙂  If you’ve ever wondered what some of us might look like….. This Is Us!

We hope you enjoyed a little glimpse at some of our Thompsons Africa family…

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant at any time for assistance.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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

Become a part of the hands-on team which mediates the well-being of all animals at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, one of the leading private research and breeding facilities for endangered species in the country.

The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) offers the opportunity to experience first hand the work of the centre.  They offer various intensive programmes, the content of which is divided into 3 main sections: Participation, Conservation and Sightseeing.

Participation: Participants will be involved in the everyday care of the many animal species at the centre. This includes cleaning, feeding and, where required, assisting with or observing any veterinary activities that may occur during their stay. The knowledge gained about the animals and the work of HESC through this kind of participation is both specific and personal. Participants may also get the opportunity to learn more about the day-to-day operations at ‘Rescued Rhinos @ HESC’, a sanctuary for orphaned rhinos and rhinos which have been victims of poaching.

Conservation: This section of the program involves informal lectures on all aspects of conservation and includes specialist input on all animals, grasses, trees and basic biodiversity.

Sightseeing: The program enables participants to put theory into practice, either through direct observation in the wild or at other centres that specialize in other areas of research or conservation.

The program which is available as 1, 2 or 3 week options, is based at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, which is home to cheetah, wild dogs, white rhino, lion, African wild cats, Ground hornbills and Sable antelope, to name a few.

Participants will form part of a hands-on team which mediates the well-being of the animals. They will also have the opportunity to visit places of interest and attractions in the area, including the renowned Kruger National Park.

Head Pastry Chef at Singita Kruger National Park in South Africa, San-Mari Pienaar, has simplified her favourite hot cross bun recipe, and you only need simple pantry ingredients to fill your home with the sweet scent of Easter.

While we’re all in lockdown, I’ve found its been a challenge to balance working from home with the responsibilities of the home itself.  One thing is for sure….I honestly feel like preparing meals is a never ending task!  Just when one is done, the next is due.  The thought of doing something a little more fun certainly appeals to me…

If you’d like a printable pdf version of this recipe, drop me a mail on email viki.haasbroek@thompsonsafrica.co.za 

More about the Singita Lodges in Kruger National Park

Situated in a 33 000 acre private concession of pristine wilderness on the remote eastern boundary of Kruger National Park, Singita Lebombo and Sweni Lodges offer the ultimate African experience.

Committed to practicing modern conservation balancing sophisticated hospitality, wildlife and land preservation, and local community development, Singita’s Lodges are constructed to touch the earth lightly.

The spectacular scenery, varied landscape and abundance of game create an exceptional opportunity for guests to enjoy world class safaris. At both lodges an exceptional culinary experience is served by connoisseur chefs, complemented by an impressively stocked wine cellar. A gymnasium provides modern convenience, while an authentic bush spa offers an array of African treatments.

Singita has introduced an exclusive use option at Sweni Lodge which affords up to 12 guests privacy and a customized itinerary as the perfect getaway for friends and families.

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant at any time for assistance or further information.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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

Desert & Delta’s Chobe Game Lodge is a leader in the field of electric powered eco-safaris.

In early 2017, Chobe Game Lodges’ electric safari fleet made up the majority of their safaris.  They now have four electric vehicles and all of their safari boats are electric powered.

It was their vision for being recognised as a fully eco-tourism certified property together with their passion for ensuring the Chobe National Park remains an untouched and sensitive natural area that needs to be protected, that drove their quest to provide experiences that ensure a clean environment and quiet safaris.  This in turn has resulted in far more enjoyable experiences in the wilderness for guests.  Imagine gliding silently through the bush on these state of the art vehicles?

Watch their beautiful video below for an insight into the heart of what makes Chobe Game Lodge magnificent.

When the travel bug bites (and it will), consider Desert & Delta’s Chobe Game Lodge, not just because of their view on conservation and eco-tourism, but also because they are an ideal base from which families can explore the Chobe region of Botswana.

 

More about Chobe Game Lodge

The only permanent game lodge situated within the famous Chobe National Park, Chobe Game Lodge is Botswana’s premier venue for guests looking for a perfect base from which to explore the National Park and the Chobe River. Full ecotourism certification by Botswana Tourism Organisation.

Chobe Game Lodge has 44 rooms, all of which are river facing and air-conditioned, featuring overhead fans, complimentary mini bar, en-suite bathrooms and a private terrace. For those guests who demand the ultimate in exclusivity, the Lodge has four river-view suites, each with its own plunge pool and separate lounge area.

This deck is the perfect place to relax or explore during your spare time at the lodge, with excellent game viewing, bar facilities, toilets and plenty of areas to just sit back and watch the sunset or the Chobe wildlife parade.

Shaun D’Araujo, game ranger at Londolozi, shared his experience of guiding a blind guest during game experiences and how it has impacted on his view of life.

 

 

What a heart warming story.  With everything going on in the world right now, it really did make me pause for a moment…

Londolozi

Londolozi is one of South Africa’s original private game reserves. A pillar of global ecotourism and a proud family-run business, Londolozi is a beacon of light for many. The word Londolozi comes from a Zulu word and means ‘Protector Of All Living Things’. Our name reflects the ambitious conservation ethic in our relationship with the natural world. The reserve has been lauded internationally for its foresight and progressive land and wildlife management practices, as well as its productive community involvement.

Londolozi is situated on the banks of the Sand River, in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park. Going on safari at Londolozi allows you to have an exclusive and luxurious experience of the area.

Each of the five exquisite Londolozi camps offer luxury accommodation, stunning views, and exceptional cuisine. All camps offer the same access to 34,000 acres of the best big five game viewing in Africa, led by some of the continent’s finest rangers and trackers.

The camps vary in price according to the exclusivity of the accommodation. The Private Granite Suites are the crème de la crème of the Londolozi portfolio, followed closely by Pioneer Camp and Tree Camp.

Read more about each camp and view rates and details:

Founders Camp

Granite Suites

Pioneer Camp

Tree Camp

Varty Camp

We’re all working from home so contact us at any time for assistance or further information.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

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