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Meerkats are small mammals of the Mongoose family with a Lemur-like face and four toes on each foot. A proudly South African carnivore the name is Afrikaans for ‘lake cat’. Meerkats are social creatures, like most South African locals, they live in groups of 20 – 30. Meerkats are well known for standing, they have a 25 – 35cm body when standing on their hind legs and use their tails to balance them in their famous pose. Meerkats are part of the Shy 5, which includes the bat-eared fox, porcupine, the aardvark and the aardwolf.

Visitors to Oudtshoorn can experience a wild habituated meerkat tour, they will have the privilege to get up close to these little creatures in the wild. This popular activity commences at sunrise and is dependent on fair weather, since meerkats will not venture outside their burrows on cold or rainy days. All tours last for 2 to 3 hours and booking in advance is essential. Guests can look forward to viewing meerkats as they come out their burrow into the sunshine and then go about their daily routine of foraging and frolicking. All tours are led by an experienced tour guide. Meerkats are wild animals and as such they are not fed or handled by humans.

If you would like sample packages showing how a Meerkat Adventure can be incorporated into an itinerary or if you would like more information on this exciting adventure, please contact us.

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Sossusvlei is a clay pan that is covered with sand that is rich in salt making the area white in appearance. The dunes surrounding this is area nearly reach 400m high some of the highest in the world. One way of viewing this spectacular destination as well as its surroundings is via a hot air balloon which provides a thrilling adventure over a rare view.  

Another clay pan just out of Sossusvlei is Deadvlei which means “dead marsh” in English, this area is covered with skeletons of dead trees that are nearly 900 years old due to a period of drought that hit the area leaving it as forest frozen in time. This area serves as a photographic haven due to the stunning contrasts between the blue sky, white ground, black trees and the red sand dunes surrounding. 

Some the iconic dunes in the areas surrounding Sossusvlei include Dune 45 and Big Daddy. Dune 45 due to its fascinating shape and accessibility makes it one of the most photographed dunes in the world. This dune was named Dune 45 as it is situated 45km from Sesrium Gate which is the main access point to the Namib-Naukluft National Park and the sand making up this dune is nearly 5 million years old. Visitors are allowed to climb this dune that is 85m high, so be sure to arrive early to experience the sunrise over the Sossusvlei area. Big Daddy is situated past Sossusvlei near Deadvlei. Big Daddy just like Dune 45 can also be climbed but it is a much more strenuous climb due to its height, the dune itself is 325m making it one of the highest dunes in the Sossusvlei area and provides spectacular views of the Deadvlei area.

Another must see in this area is the Sesrium Canyon which has been shaped over millions of years by the Tsauchab River and is about 1m long and 30m deep. The canyon is situated 4.5km from the Namibia-Naukluft National Park and is one of the few places in the Sossusvlei that holds water throughout the year. 

Sossusvlei is one of the top destinations in the Namibia region and one that attract attention purely because of its natural beauty. If you are looking for a bucket list adventure and breath-taking views that are begging to be photographed the Sossusvlei area is for you. Please contact us if you would like more information or sample packages showing how this destination can be incorporated into a package.

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Namibia has 26 parks and reserves, the most famous of these parks is the Etosha National Park. Namibia’s endangered species include wild dog, black rhino, puku and oribi. There are 8 mammal species endemic to Namibia, including the Black faced Impala, several mice, gerbils and bats. The Namibian desert is well known for its large number of endemic dune dwellers, especially lizards, of which there are 30 endemic species.

The puku antelope is limited to about 100 individuals along the Chobe River in Botswana and the Linyati marshes in Namibia. The country also has the largest population in southern Africa of cheetah’s not contained within national parks. There are over also over twenty species of antelope ranging from the largest, the eland, to the smallest, the Damara dik-dik. Namibia s also home to a host of small mammals such as mongoose, jackal and the honey badger.

The African fish-eagle is the national bird of Namibia. You may see many birds on your travels through Namibia in a variety of habitats such as along floodplains, in grasslands or in reed beds. The birds of Namibia include ostrich, cranes, owls, bee-eaters and African warblers. These are just some of the 676 confirmed species of avifauna in Namibia, with Etosha National Park being home to an 340 bird species that make up an impressive mix that ranges from flamingos to the colourful lilac-breasted roller and eagles soaring high above.

Namibia has some of the most extraordinary vegetation, all adapted to harsh desert environments. Namibia lies in the second driest area in Africa after the Sahara, Namibia is the most arid country in sub-Saharan Africa, the landscape is characterised by deserts and mountains. Namibia can be split into four distinct vegetation zones. Together these four zones support over 4,000 seed bearing vascular plants, 120 different species of tree, over 200 endemic plant species and 100 varieties of lichen. The most well-known plant is actually one of the oldest in the world – the Welwitschia Mirabilis, you will find this interesting plant that lives in the sand dunes, rocky landscapes and coastal deserts surviving through severe droughts and windswept environment.  Some of the types of flora you will find in Namibia are trees, succulents, herbs and shrubs to name a few.

There are a variety of packages on offer for exploring Namibia’s flora & fauna. Please contact us if you would like some more information on the Garden Route, activities on offer or some sample packages showing how this destination can be incorporated into a package.

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The Hwange National Park situated in West Zimbabwe is Zimbabwe’s biggest and most diverse national park. The elephant stronghold of Hwange is a game-rich area roughly the size of the Bahamas. Guests can explore a variety of landscapes, from desert sands and sparse woodland to grasslands and rocky outcrops. The grasslands and mopane woods are home to large herds of elephants, lions and African wild dogs. Vast herds of elephant and buffalo, gemsbok and clans of brown hyena can be found in this pristine slice of wilderness, which also boasts one of the largest surviving populations of African wild dog.

This vast game park was established in 1930 and covers and area of 14 651 km², it is 18 times the size of New York City, and has an estimated 50,000 elephants, many of which are in breeding herds as large as 300 that pad from waterhole to waterhole. There are also more than 100 different kinds of mammals living in the National Park and an estimated 500 bird species living in the scrubland. This level of biodiversity is matched only by the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Kruger National Park in South Africa.

The camps themselves are world-class, with glamorous bush camps dotted around the park.

Here are some top picks of where to stay:

Imvelo Safari Lodges or experiences, choose from:

Bomani Tented Lodge – Situated on a 5000 acre private reserve within the Ngamo Forest Area, this lodge is an exciting safari destination – in a remote and exclusive area. Enjoy great game viewing all year round. The main lodge overlooks Bomani Pan and is comprised of an open dining room, bar area and lounge, built on a spectacular viewing platform.

Camelthorn Lodge – This flagship lodge ticks all the boxes for your authentic African safari experience. Situated in one of Hwange’s last remaining well-protected and un-spoilt acacia woodlands, on the edge of the South Eastern corner of Hwange National Park. Be treated to a truly memorable safari experience, in pure comfort and style. Enjoy al fresco dining under the ancient Camelthorn tree, savour your morning coffee in front of a roaring fire, track herds of elephant by foot, and enjoy close up photography from inside Camelthorn’s look-up blind.

Jozibanini – Situated in the remote south west of Hwange National Park in a wilderness unused for nearly 20 years, this is a small, truly exclusive camp in a wild place, providing a unique, untamed wilderness experience. Imvelo is breaking new ground in Hwange in terms of the remoteness of the location and the uniqueness of the environment.

Nehimba Lodge – Is situated deep inside a private concession, nestled inside the remote northern region of Hwange National Park. This lodge combines luxury living with ultimate elegance and lashings of African charm and is designed to create the most exceptional safari experiences. No two days are the same at Nehimba and game viewing experiences are tailor-made to guest’s preferences, including game drives, walking safaris and night game drives on private concession in search of nocturnal species of wildlife. This wild and unspoilt bush paradise will guarantee you leave with memories to last a lifetime!

Imvelo’s Victoria Falls to Hwange overnight sleeper train service – The Stimela Star. This private overnight sleeper train is hooked up to the regular Victoria Falls to Bulawayo passenger train. Enjoy comfort and plenty of old fashioned style overnight from Vic Falls and awake rested and relaxed ready for your adventure in Hwange National Park. On the Star you’ll enjoy refreshments and dinner, and then entertainment provided by the guides in the lounge car where you can enjoy coffee or an after dinner drink, before retiring to your private sleeping cabin, where you’ll be rocked to sleep in away that is unique only to train travel.

Join a unique way to transfer to Imvelo’s southern properties in Hwange – The Elepahnt Express railcar. This unque railcar is ingeniously designed and built to re-invent safari transfers to and between Imvelo’s camps in Hwange National Park. The Elephant Express makes daily return trips as necessary between Ngamo Siding, near Bomani and Camelthorn, and Dete Railway Station near Hwange Main Camp.

The best Zimbabwe has to offer – Elephant’s Eye, Hwange offers an unforgettable experience with the African wilderness. The camp comprises of 8 tented chalets. Every chalet has a double or twin beds surrounded by mosquito netting, an en-suite bathroom with a bath and basin, a glam outside shower and wrap-around veranda. The Elephant’s Eye, Hwange lodge can host a maximum of 16 people at any given time and all meals and most drinks are included.

Activities at Elephant’s Eye include game viewing, a fully operational spa, guided educational walks, bird watching, night game drives with trained field guides; swimming or enjoying sundowners while relaxing near the pool. Elephant’s Eye has a waterhole which offers unlimited opportunities to view at photograph game at close range.

Located in a prime position – The Hide, Hwange offers a life-enriching safari experience for its guests, from its fantastic game viewing right on your doorstep, to a variety of daily activities to suit everyone and the warm and welcoming staff, who make you feel like family from the minute you arrive. Guests are accommodated in beautifully-furnished deluxe tents, all boasting en-suite bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the busy waterhole.

Adventures include day and night game drives, guided bush walks and exceptional game viewing in the seclusion of the camp’s unique underground hides. For those who are a little more adventurous, The Dove’s Nest Treehouse is available at no extra charge. Located a few minutes away from camp, this rustic gem sleep out has the perfect vantage point from which to view wildlife safely and quietly.
After an exhilarating day of game viewing, guests can retreat to the cool refuge of the camp’s swimming pool and can enjoy delectable meals savoured al fresco or in the elegant dining room.

A small intimate lodge – Ivory Lodge, Hwange features luxurious tree houses and Presidential Elephant Suites set on elevated platforms amongst the indigenous flora of Hwange Game Park. Deep in the mystical teak forests of Hwange is this unobtrusive camp, bathed in the tales of pioneering hunters and explorers such as Fredrick Courtney Selous. Lumbering giants drift around your stilted platforms, their tusks glinting in salute to the sanctuary of shade offered up by these massive trees.This is Ivory Lodge – place of elephants. It is here that great herds of elephants are found – sometimes over 100 strong, often finding refuge from the scorching heat at Ivory’s water hole.

Silently, elegantly, the lodge stands over the waterhole…. watch by flood light under a star spangled African night sky – the elephants in their play-fighting….their display of instinctive rituals, their caressing and murmurings…all which speak of years gone by.

With so much to see and do in Hwange National Park and luxurious accommodation on offer, it is easy to see why this is a must-experience destination! Please contact us if you would like some more information on this unforgettable wildlife experience or some sample packages showing how this destination can be incorporated into a package.

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A self-drive holiday in South Africa or Namibia offers an intriguing mix of adventure, excitement and a sense of freedom – a unique and inspirational experience that will leave you with some great lasting memories of Southern Africa and tales to tell for years to come… Here are a few simple reasons why you should consider a self-drive holiday in South Africa or Namibia as an alternative to the normal way you travel.

The wildlife is astonishing, it is among the most richly diverse and varied on the planet. You could find yourself driving near colossal herds of elephants, African buffalo, beautiful leopards, majestic packs of lions, leaping gazelles and many more. You’ll be able to get up, close and personal with some endangered species, and marvel at them as they hunt and play in the wilderness.

You are able to travel at your own pace and leisure and decide where you want to go and how to long to stay for so you can enjoy the parts you find most special. A self-drive holiday puts you in control. If you come across an area you particularly like, you can explore it further without worrying about holding the entire group up.

You’ll experience the real South Africa, when you’re out there on your own, guiding your own tour of South Africa, you’ll be immersing yourself in the culture on a much deeper level. Those on guided tours often remain in the ‘bubble’ of their tour for the duration of the trip, whereas those on self-drive tours will come into contact with regular South African people, whether it’s at a restaurant, at a petrol station, in a national park or on the road. This makes for a more authentic experience that’s hard to match.

The easy Availability of rental cars, with companies providing a wide range of cars from economy to luxury, with reasonable rental pricing, self-drive trips have become a breeze accommodating planners as well as impulse travellers.

Exposing kids to nature and educating first hand, take the whole family on a self-drive trip away from modern technology and closer to nature. Drive through beautiful, scenic routes and opening curiosity and exposing children to learning life’s experiences while traveling.

There are excellent 4×4 trails across the country,  If you are looking for a 4×4 adventure holiday offering scenery and an abundance of wildlife, South Africa is home to some magnificent 4×4 trails, with something for total beginners and seasoned off-road drivers alike. You’ll find challenging routes that last for days, and simple loops that you can complete in two hours or less.

You’ll save money on travel , by using your own car or hiring one means you can see more of the country without spending endless amounts of money on public transport, taxis or other ways of getting around. You’ll also save on tour costs, giving you extra money to spend on holiday souvenirs because it’s a budget-friendly option!

Spending quality time with the family, it’s lovely to see how a self-drive trip can bring families closer. Talking, laughing, singing, playing along the way. It’s a time most cherished and reminisced and makes one want to plan their next such short trip soon.

With so many advantages of Self-Drive Holidays, it is easy to see why this is becoming a popular way to travel! Please contact us if you would like some more information on a self-drive tour or some sample packages showing how this experience can be incorporated into a package.

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There has been a 50% increase in tourist arrivals to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe this year, with some hotels fully booked for the rest of the year! The Victoria Falls region last experienced 100% bookings in 1999 and this trend seems to be spreading through the rest of the country!

This boom can be attributed to a number of factors;

“The intense marketing and PR by the private sector together with Ministry, plus the impact of the new Victoria Falls International Airport and increased routes and access, have played a major role in this growth.”

Says Ross Kennedy, Chief Executive of Africa Albida Tourism.

With this news, it’s important for all travellers into the region to boo in advance to avoid disappointment as space is becoming limited as we head into the busy season! For more information on our Victoria Falls packages, visit our website and book today!

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In 1913 a botanist called Harold Pearson set about transforming the land into a botanic garden devoted to the country’s indigenous flora.

It now contains over 7000 species of plants from southern Africa. The 528 hectare Kirstenbosch Estate falls under the Cape Floristic Region, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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