Zambia Archives - Great Safaris

Miombo Safari Camp, Hwange Park

Miombo Safari Camp has the distinction of being the closest quality accommodation to Hwange National Park Main Gate & is located in the DETE annex, on a private concession within the eastern border of the Hwange National Park. Having undergone a total transformation, there are seven brand new boutique raised above ground level platforms that are 75sqm, atop of which are exquisite luxury 55sqm safari suites, configured to accommodate two guests in a queen sized double or twin-bed configuration. Each of these guest suites has a main bedroom, with a wardrobe & storage space for clothes & footwear, a private en-suite bathroom with twin ´His & Hers` basins, ample hot & cold running water on demand, an interior private shower & separate private toilet. We also have two standard tree houses. These accommodation units are rustic & not of the same standard as the new platform units. Instead they cater to safari lovers who may have been to Miombo Safari Camp prior to its transformation, or folks who are seeking a slightly less luxury & more `rustic` bush accommodation.

Miombo Safari Camp

Somalisa Camp, Hwange Park

Location: Somalisa Camp is set in the heart of Hwange National Park, known as the land of the giants for its big elephant herds. Somalisa is an authentic bush camp, a blend of old African charm and elegance together with an exclusive safari experience. Its stunning location tucked away on an acacia island along the edge of an ancient seasonal flood plain gives it breath taking views of the savannah plains of the famous Kennedy Vlei line. At Somalisa Camp, you will experience the heightened romance of the African Bush in one of the most natural environments in Africa. This is the way Africa was meant to be explored.

Only six elegantly furnished canvas tents with en suite bathrooms, flush toilet and romantic alfresco bush shower make up this camp. The décor echoes of an old era, from colonial to the ancient tribes of Africa, telling the story from all corners of this magnificent continent. It’s stunning main area and pool lends to complete relaxation, whether it be with a cup of tea or one of our refreshing cocktails; overlooking the pan where the herds of game congregate in large herds, offering rare moments of outstanding nature.somalisa-camp

Victoria Falls – 3 Days

Victoria Falls Extension

Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (Tokaleya Tonga: the Smoke that Thunders), is the great waterfall in Southern Africa on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls is one of the world’s three large waterfalls and a sight not the be missed; believed to have been discovered by David Livingstone the Scottish missionary and explorer, they were named in honor of Queen Victoria.

A “must see” destination for nature lovers, the Falls boast boutique hotels and sophisticated resorts to satisfy all tastes and budgets. Victoria Falls is a playground of thrills: elephant back safaris, canoeing, white water rafting, bungee jumping, helicopter flips, game viewing on horseback … to name just a few!

Includes 2 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, airport transfers, sundowner cruise and guided tour of the Falls.

Victoria Falls aireal view

Unforgettable Moment #209

Linda and I just returned yesterday from Victoria Falls to our Georgia residence and we would like to thank you for a great trip which was made even better by adding the Chobe excursion and experiencing a real safari, seeing thousands of elephants besides other wildlife close up.

        – Bernie & Linda N. (Cleveland, GA)

Unforgettable Moment #84

Cape Town was a sheer delight. My son and I opted for the Great White Shark cage diving trip; that is a thrill we will remember for the rest of our lives! The Palace was a complete mind blower. There were so many things to do and see, we could have stayed twice as long. The game drives in the park were a highlight, although my husband said the golfing was a close second. Josh spend most of his time in the wave pool. Victoria Falls was a great way to end the trip, the Royal Livingstone is as class act bar none. The Falls were not in high flow so we got to swim in the natural rock pool at the edge. All in all amazing and the best trip ever! – Caitlin P. – Berkeley, CA

Avani Victoria Falls Resort, Victoria Falls

The Avani Victoria Falls Resort is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, adjacent to the mighty Victoria Falls. 20km from Livingstone Airport.  The Avani Victoria Falls Resort (Formerly ‘The Zambezi Sun’) is designed in funky adobe-style decor with vibrant earthy colors creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The main reception looks onto the swimming pool and restaurants include an indoor buffet and alfresco poolside facility. The pool also features a bar and entertainment stage. There is a children’s playground and kids’club, Kamp Kwena.

Kamp Kwena is situated at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort and is available to children from both hotels. The Kamp Kwena kiddies centre is open to children from 2 – 12 years of age. Here, the kids can enjoy a wide variety of activities. Shared by both properties is the Falls Entertainment Centre, it is here that you can feel a sense of adventure, where explorations are discussed and planned.

All tours begin and end at this hub of entertainment and recreational pleasure.

The 212 room Avani Victoria Falls Resort appeals primarily to families and conference delegates. The guest rooms acknowledge their African roots in the deep rich red earth color of the rounded planes of its walls. All the rooms are comfortable and offer every convenience, and all have private balconies.

Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Royal Livingstone Hotel, Victoria Falls

Located immediately upstream from the Victoria Falls, on the banks of the Zambezi River, the Royal Livingstone offers an unparalleled level of service and sophistication in the region. 20km from Livingstone Airport.

The main hotel is a sequence of thatch-roofed buildings, mostly African in their influence, and incorporates the lounge, restaurant and bar. A classic swimming pool visually links the waters of the river with the terraces of the hotel, with a sweeping timber deck planted in the swirling water of the Zambezi. The reception area is framed by a classic courtyard, featuring a fountain and exuding the aroma of herbs from the interior gardens. The resort’s deep, shaded veranda has an uninterrupted view of the Zambezi River.

The luxury rooms and suites offer a tranquil retreat from the beauty of the surroundings. The rooms are located in two-storey clusters, each cluster comprising of 10 en-suite air-conditioned rooms, with private balconies or terraces, and all have spectacular views of the Zambezi River.

Royal Livingstone Hotel

Royal Chundu River Lodge, Victoria Falls

Relais & Chateaux’s Royal Chundu River Lodge is a sanctum of quiet solitude and untouched beauty and the first Relais & Chateaux property in Zambia. Their luxurious lodge is situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, just upstream from the magnificent Victoria Falls on a ten mile stretch of private waterway which is protected by two sets of rapids.

Royal Chundu River Lodge was created in complete harmony with its natural surroundings and embraces the tradition and geography of the area while incorporating stylish and sophisticated accommodation, world class service and sumptuous pan-African cuisine.

River Lodge is the main hub at Royal Chundu and the larger of two Royal Chundu lodges. There are ten magnificent and spacious river-front suites at River Lodge. The entire lodge looks out onto the mighty Zambezi creating a spectacular and dramatic setting with the Matetsi Private Game Reserve on the opposite side of the river. Each suite has a double shower, air-conditioning, a fan, mosquito nets, a king-size bed and a generous deck with excellent views of the surroundings. There is a beautiful boma for outdoor evening meals, a library, wine cellar, business center, satellite TV, dining room, and complimentary WIFI.

There are numerous activities available on-site at Royal Chundu, at an additional cost, and plenty more in the surrounding areas, including sunset river cruises, tribal village walk, birding safaris, and canoeing and fishing trips.

The water provides a vital life source to the abundant wildlife in the area and is in stark contrast to the parched savannah interior. The river supports large populations of animals. Hippopotamuses and crocodiles can be found all along the calm stretches of the river. Monitor lizards are also common and the variety of bird life is spectacular, with species such as heron, pelican, egret and the African fish eagle in abundance. The banks of the Zambezi also support many large animals including buffalo, zebra, giraffe and elephant.

What makes Royal Chundu even more special is its setting between Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls, two spectacular landmarks that you can easily access from the lodge on a day tour. The Zambezi is renowned as one of the top fishing destinations in Africa, with several hundred species of fish present. Common species include cichlids, catfish, tigerfish and yellowfish. Nature walks are one of the best ways to get to know our spectacular natural surroundings. For guests looking to go in search of the African cats and big game, a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park is a must.

Royal Chundu River Lodge

Golden Triangle Safari featuring South Africa & Victoria Falls

South Africa & Victoria Falls

Cape Town | Sun City | Johannesburg | Victoria Falls

Tour Length: 10 days
From $4,895 per person

Our Golden Triangle Safari featuring South Africa & Victoria Falls links Cape Town’s waterfront beauty with Sun City’s The Palace of the Lost City, nestled in an extinct volcanic crater, surrounded by a Big 5 nature reserve. And to top it off, 2 nights in a luxury resort, set against the heart-stopping backdrop of beloved Victoria Falls.

Golden Triangle Safari Cape Town aerial view

Touch down in glorious Cape Town to begin this adventure-of-a-lifetime. Explore her peninsula, at the Cape of Good Hope – with its quaint fishing villages, colonies of barking seals and a most improbable collection of arctic penguins. Aerial View of Cape Town, South Africa Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cape Winelands; tour a vineyard and stroll the quaint streets of Stellenbosch.

Then wing your way to Sun City and discover The Palace of the Lost City. Styled in opulent African colors and architectural features, The Palace is

Our Golden Triangle Safari featuring South Africa & Victoria Falls maprated as one of the Leading Hotels of the World.

One of the great African experiences is a Big 5 safari in a 4×4 safari cruiser, and you will enjoy two of these thrilling adventures in the Pilanesberg National Game Reserve. This exclusive safari opportunity is one of many exciting Sun City activities, which include world-class golfing, dining and touring.

Overland to Johannesburg, the vibrant and pulsing capital city, where you have a brief stop before winging to Victoria Falls – what the locals call the “Smoke that Thunders”. Delight in a guided tour of the Falls and ply the famed Zambezi River on a sunset boat cruise.

Golden Triangle  Tour Itinerary

Day 1-3 Cape Town (3 nights)
Spy penguins, seals, ostriches and cavorting baboons on a full day drive to the tip of the Cape of Good Hope. Standing at the edge of the continent, perhaps you can see where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. Enjoy another full day of glorious scenery travelling through the Winelands: tour a vineyard, samples the wines and admire the old Cape Dutch architecture at Stellenbosch.

Day 4-6 Sun City (3 nights)
Sheer opulence awaits at the famed Palace of the Lost City – one of the most beloved and eclectic destinations in South Africa. Indulge in a huge array of activities and sports, including a man-made wave pool! During your 3 night stay you will enjoy exciting wildlife safaris within Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Open safari vehicles venture forth in pursuit of the Big Five: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo.

Day 7 Johannesburg (1 night)
Drive to the ‘big city’, stopping enroute at a popular village where locals ply their wares and tourists bargain for the perfect souvenir. Arrive at your 5 star downtown hotel, for a perfect night’s rest.

Day 8-9 Victoria Falls (2 nights)
Wing to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Enjoy a multi-hued sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River, watching out for crocodile and inquisitive hippos, while sipping wine and feeling the spray from the Falls. The following day, you will explore the impressive Falls on a guided walking tour.

Day 10 Depart Johannesburg
Fly back to Johannesburg and connect with your departure flight.

EXTENSIONS AVAILABLE
3 days Chobe National Park, Botswana. CHOBE GAME LODGE.
Per Person from $1,695 
Guests will explore the Chobe River and the abundant wildlife and bird species of Chobe National Park. Counter-balancing the wilderness is this restful, air conditioned, ensuite game lodge, with graceful high arches, quarry tiled floors and barrel vaulted ceilings that create an atmosphere of cool tranquility. The Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent game lodge located within the National Park.

3 days Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Kruger Park, South Africa. SABI SABI BUSH LODGE.
Per Person from $2,450  (excluding air fare)
South Africa’s finest wildlife refuge, this is home to all the Big Five. Venture forth on morning and afternoon guided game drives, in open safari vehicles, expertly maneuvered by professional game rangers. During the quiet midday, let your five senses guide you on a thrilling walking safari!

Safari In Style with Relais & Châteaux

South Africa & Zambia (Victoria Falls)

Tour Length: 12 days

Cape Town | Greater Kruger Park | Johannesburg | Livingstone

The best of Southern Africa in accommodations by Relais & Châteaux, the world’s finest hoteliers. Experience upgraded accommodations, special added excursions, selected private tours, elephant back and walking safaris, game drives, and a mixture of trendy luxury and relaxed elegance on our Safari In Style with Relais & Châteaux.
Land from $11,995 per person

Safari in Style cheetah-smirkingCommence this amazing adventure in gorgeous Cape Town. Explore her peninsula, at the Cape of Good Hope. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cape Winelands; tour a vineyard and stroll the quaint streets of Stellenbosch.

Kruger National Park – South Africa’s finest wildlife refuge, the Park is home to all the Big Five. Venture forth on morning and afternoon guided game drives, in open safari vehicles.

Then wing your way to Johannesburg, the vibrant and pulsing capital city. Only a brief stop here, as you are bound for Victoria Falls … what the locals call the “Smoke that Thunders”. Delight in a guided tour of the Falls and ply the famed Zambezi River on a sunset boat cruise.

The allure is Africa is undeniable. And what better way to fall under her spell than to start this amazing adventure in gorgeous Cape Town? Explore her peninsula with its quaint fishing villages, colonies of barking seals and a most improbable collection of arctic penguins. At the Cape of Good Hope – witness the angry Atlantic and sanguine Indian Oceans meet and mingle. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cape Winelands; tour a vineyard, sip some of the famous local wines, and stroll the quaint streets of Stellenbosch.

Safari In Style with Relais & Châteaux mapKruger National Park – South Africa’s finest wildlife refuge. Prepare for heart-stopping adventures as the Park is home to all the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and hippo. Venture forth on morning and afternoon game drives, in open safari vehicles, expertly maneuvered by professional game rangers. During the quiet midday, let your five senses roam unfettered through the bush … on a fascinating walking safari.

A reluctant ‘farewell’ to Kruger as you wing to Johannesburg, the vibrant and pulsing capital city. Only a brief stop here, as you are bound for Victoria Falls … what the locals call the “Smoke that Thunders”. Delight in a guided tour of the Falls and ply the famed Zambezi River on a sunset boat cruise.

As a special treat:  a 30 minutes opportunity to meet and interact with Jabulani’s elephants. Always accompanied by their handlers, the elephants are relaxed and there is the opportunity to observe  their herd dynamics, as the younger elephants play under the watchful eye of the adults. There’s plenty of opportunity for photographs during the half-hour interaction time, and handlers will provide information on individual elephants and fascinating herd behavior.

relais-chateauxEstablished over half a century ago, Relais & Châteaux is an association of the world’s finest hoteliers, chefs and restaurateurs that has set the standard for excellence in hospitality. Relais & Châteaux has redefined luxury hospitality by emphasizing holistic experiences that transport its guests, taking them on a sensual journey and introducing them to a deeper, truer understanding of the Art of Living.

The story of Relais & Châteaux begins in 1941 when two former music hall entertainers, Marcel and Nelly Tilloy purchased “La Cardinale”, an estate in the Rhône Valley. In 1952 the Tilloys began recruiting other hoteliers and restaurant owners that shared the same level of quality and excellence and passions for fine cuisine and Art de Vivre. In 1954, this group of kindred spirits merged together to create Relais & Châteaux. In the beginning, there were only eight establishments along the road between Paris and the French Riviera. Today, there are more than 520 members that are a part of Relais & Châteaux.

Safari In Style with Relais & Châteaux Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA
Bound for exciting South Africa!

Day 2-4 Cape Town (3 nights)
Spy penguins, seals, ostriches and cavorting baboons on a full day drive to the tip of the Cape of Good Hope. Standing at the edge of the continent, perhaps you can see where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. Take in the defining highlights of the city and popular waterfront and then enjoy another full day of glorious scenery traveling through the Winelands: tour a vineyard, samples the wines and admire the old Cape Dutch architecture at Stellenbosch.

Stay at Relais & Châteaux’s Ellerman House in Cape Town – The quintessential urban retreat for discerning luxury travelers wanting complete exclusivity in Cape Town. Sprawled over one-and-a-half landscaped acres, this privately owned hotel has been influential in redefining luxury accommodation in South Africa. (Deluxe House Room)

Day 5-7 Kruger Park Private Reserve (3 nights)
Kruger Park… where the wild things roam, is the approximate size of Rhode Island and teaming with wildlife. Daily drives put you within touching distance of lion prides, unpredictable buffalo and herds of elephant feeding in ghostly silence. Keep a keen eye out for shy leopard and endangered rhino. If you’re in the mood, don’t miss the chance to feel nature “close up” on a walking safari

Stay at Relais & Châteaux’s Jabulani in Kruger National Park – This camp is a perfect translation of the African bush, seamlessly blending classic and elegant interiors (fit for princes and kings, but warm enough to make the most “down-to-earth” feel completely at home) with the natural bush beyond.

Some of Jabulani‘s notable offerings include the daily safari drives in the Big Five private Kapama Reserve, and visits to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, which are all included in your stay. Additionally, they offer optional indulgent treatments at the outdoor Therapy Lapa, and hot air balloon excursions over the reserve. (Fully Inclusive)

Day 8 Johannesburg (1 night)
Fly to the big city… busy reinventing itself as a trendy metropolis. A private car promptly delivers you to the hotel for a long and luxurious night’s rest.

Stay at Relais & Châteaux’s AtholPlace Boutique Hotel in Johannesburg – Contemporary-classic glamor and understated elegance ensure an unforgettable stay. Their stylish suites have each been individually decorated to give you a sense of relaxed elegance. (Superior Suite)

Day 9-10 Livingstone (2 nights)
While at the natural wonder of the world, Victoria Falls, “mosi oa tunya”, or the “smoke that thunders”, you can enjoy the many activities that your accommodation has to offer. While some cost additional, the activities include a multi-hued sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River, an impressive Victoria Falls guided walking tour, superb fly fishing on unstressed waters, canoe tours, and more.

Stay at Relais & Châteaux’s Royal Chundu River Lodge at Victoria Falls – A sanctum of quiet solitude and untouched beauty, this luxurious lodge is situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Created in complete harmony with its natural surroundings and embracing the tradition and geography of the area while incorporating stylish and sophisticated accommodation, world class service and sumptuous pan-African cuisine. (Full Board)

Day 11 Depart Johannesburg
Wing back to Johannesburg and your departure flight.

Day 12 Arrive USA
With wonderful memories and a few thousand photos!

The Great Southern Safari

Cape Town, Kruger and Victoria Falls

The Great Southern Safari is an extraordinary journey to Cape Town, Kruger  Park and Victoria Falls, offering  cosmopolitan sights, luxury safaris and awe-inspiring splendor.

Tour Length: 10 days

From $4,395 per person

Cape Town Kruger and Victoria Falls water buffalo up close

Request this Safari

The allure of Africa is undeniable. And what better way to fall under her spell than to start this amazing adventure in gorgeous Cape Town? Explore her peninsula with its quaint fishing villages, colonies of barking seals and a most improbable collection of arctic penguins. At the Cape of Good Hope – witness the angry Atlantic and sanguine Indian Oceans meet and mingle. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cape Winelands; tour a vineyard, sip some of the famous local wines, and stroll the quaint streets of Stellenbosch..

Cape Town Kruger and Victoria FallsKruger National Park – South Africa’s finest wildlife refuge. Prepare for heart-stopping adventures as the Park is home to all the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and hippo. Venture forth on morning and afternoon game drives, in open safari vehicles, expertly maneuvered by professional game rangers. During the quiet midday, let your five senses roam unfettered through the bush … on a fascinating walking safari or nature hike (available on the Luxe and Premier levels).

A reluctant ‘farewell’ to Kruger as you wing to Johannesburg, the vibrant and pulsing capital city. Only a brief stop here, as you are bound for Victoria Falls … what the locals call the “Smoke that Thunders”. Delight in a guided tour of the Falls and ply the famed Zambezi River on a sunset boat cruise.  If you have a bit more time to explore, consider adding a Botswana safari, or a few days lazing on the white sand beaches of the Seychelles.

The Great Southern Safari Itinerary

Day 1 Cape Town

Arrive in Cape Town and spend the day exploring the “Mother City” at leisure.

Day 2 – Cape Town

Embark on a morning half day drive by excursion to some of the Cape’s top attractions. Learn about the Cape Town CBD and its surrounds, the highlight being a scenic cable car ride to Table Mountain.

Day 3 – Cape Town

Experience a scenic drive to Cape Point Nature reserve travel via the 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, to Chapman’s Peak, see the penguins at Boulders Beach. Return to the hotel later in the afternoon.

Day 4 – Cape Town to Greater Kruger Private Game Reserve

Fly to the Kruger, arriving at your safari lodge in time for lunch and your first afternoon game drive. Return to the lodge for dinner.

Day 5 & 6 – Greater Kruger Private Game Reserve

Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives in specially fitted open safari vehicle, exploring the wildlife-rich private reserve. Your highly trained Game Ranger and qualified Tracker follow the animals on and off-road, deep into the heart of the wild African Bushveld while walking safaris allow you to feel the pulse of untamed Africa through the soles of your feet.

Day 7 – Greater Kruger Private Game Reserve to Victoria Falls

Arise early this morning so you can savour your last day in the Kruger bush. Transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Later in the afternoon enjoy a multi-hued sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River and feeling the spray from the Falls.

Day 8 – Victoria Falls

The following day, explore the impressive Victoria Falls on a guided walking tour.

Day 9 – Depart Victoria Falls to Johannesburg 

After breakfast, fly back to Johannesburg and bid a fond “farewell” to Africa as you connect with your departure flight.

Request this Safari