African Bush Camps – The Safari Act Special

 

Three exceptional packages offering travellers a once in a lifetime safari experience of two unique Destinations – Botswana and Zimbabwe. Book your preferred package now for travel between 1st November and 30th November 2014 and receive an unbelievable 20% discount.

Zimbabwe in 3 Acts
ONLY: USD 3 823*

Enjoy 8 nights in Zimbabwe exploring Hwange National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mana Pools.

Includes: 3 nights at Somalisa Camp in Hwange National Park, 2 nights at Zambezi Life Styles and 3 nights at Kanga Camp in Mana Pools

Botswana in 3 Acts
ONLY: USD 4 347*

Enjoy 8 nights in Botswana exploring the remote areas of Khwai, and Linyanti. Includes: 3 nights Khwai Tented Camp, 2 nights Saile Tented Camp and 3 nights Linyanti Bush Camp

The Double Act
ONLY: USD 8 825*

Enjoy 16 nights combining both Botswana and Zimbabwe and get two nights for FREE in Victoria Falls.

Includes: Zimbabwe in 3 Acts, Botswana in 3 Acts and two free nights in Victoria Falls at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.

The 20% discount applies to the African Bush Camps properties included in the package. Transfers included in the package are not discounted. Each safari has to be booked in its entirety for the discounted rates to apply and cannot be separated or substituted for alternative options. The packages are subject to availability at all camps incorporated.

Standard Terms and Conditions apply.

For further enquiries please enquire direct at info@africanbushcamps.com

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
African Bush Camps

Green season special at the Elephant's Eye

Elephant’s Eye, Hwange – Green Season Special – ends 15 June.

The rate is USD255 per person sharing per night and includes accommodation, all meals, water, soft drinks, beers, ciders, mixers and house wine, 2 game drives per day on private concession or 1 full‐day game drive in Hwange National Park, village visit, transfers from and to Hwange Airport, laundry.

Wilderness Safaris April update

ZIMBABWE

HWANGE NATIONAL PARKS AND OUR CONCESSIONS

At Wilderness Safaris we love maps and facts, so we have put together a comprehensive map of Hwange which showcases the vast tracts of land that make up the National Park, where we are and what you can see in our abundant concessions. All this along with useful information about what makes our people and our camps so special and why you should certainly include them in a Zimbabwe itinerary! Pick up a copy at a trade show or contact your Sales Representative.

Hwange lions (Image credit: Mike Myers)

THE NEW “OLD FAVOURITE” – LINKWASHA CAMP

This year Wilderness Safaris are undertaking the exciting project of rebuilding Linkwasha Camp and opening our doors for FIT bookings as of early 2015. An old favourite for many who have been lucky enough to visit the location, Linkwasha will be a fabulous new addition to our Hwange portfolio. The camp will be classified a Classic 1 camp (the highest rating of Classic Camps) with eight tents, including a family room, and will raise the bar with respect to the accommodation offerings in Hwange National Park. The private Linkwasha Concession and the adjacent Makalolo Concession share exceptional wildlife concentrations, ensuring outstanding year-round wildlife numbers.

Linkwasha (Image credit Mike Myers)

ENHANCING THE WILDERNESS AIR SCHEDULE

Wilderness Air Zimbabwe’s flying schedule has been amended to ensure we maximise our guests’ time in the country. Here are some more details:

• The timing of inter-camp transfers now allow for more activities. For example, Ruckomechi Camp guests are able to enjoy an activity on both the day of arrival and the day of departure.
• Flights from Hwange to Victoria Falls will take place in the morning; guests no longer have to wait until the afternoon to fly.
• The Hwange inter-camp transfers allow for connections between third party camps and the Wilderness Air schedule.
• Harare flights allow for British Airways and South African Airways connections to and from Harare as well as other international flights departing Harare such as Emirates and KLM. Find the updated schedule on our Information Centre.

Over the Falls (Image credit Mark Mansfield)

WHAT’S NEW AT OUR HWANGE CAMPS?

Davison’s Camp has an impressive new main area, offering more space, a new roof and a fabulous wooden deck stretching out around the fire pit. There is also a small upper deck to view the waterhole by day and gaze at the stars by night! Meanwhile at Little Makalolo, a new deck near the main area, pool deck and walkways have been built. The walkways dip to the ground in areas where wildlife have created paths, so that they are not impeded in reaching the waterhole.

New Deck at Davissons (Image credit Derreck Sanyahumbi)

ZAMBIA

FISHING AT TOKA LEYA

Guests are able to do fishing when they stay at Toka Leya. The cost of fishing is included in the FI rate, but the park fees are paid for separately. These can conveniently be settled directly at the camp and are US$5 per person per fishing trip.

GUIDED NATURE WALKS AND RHINO TRACKING AT TOKA LEYA

It is possible to go rhino tracking while staying at Toka Leya. ZAWA scouts monitor the rhinos 24/7 and track them each morning from where they were seen the previous evening. Once the rhinos have been found, the scouts report back to base and stay with the rhinos until late, camping in the area to start tracking early next morning. Guests travel to the area by vehicle and then track the rhino on foot, accompanied by the ZAWA scout - our guides are not allowed to carry weapons. The total duration of the rhino tracking is about 2 hours (combination of drive and walk). Guided nature walks and hino tracking are included in our FI rate, however, the park fee is a separate amount that must be settled direct. Note that all walks are subject to the availability of a ZAWA scout – the request can be put into WISH or made in camp, but cannot be confirmed or guaranteed in advance. Note that the minimum age for walking is 13. The cost is US$10 per person per excursion and can be settled directly at the camp.

Rhino walks (Image credit Mike Myers)

BUSANGA PLAINS OF PLENTY

The lion prides of the Busanga Plains are major drawcards for guests. They are often celebrated for their impressive stocky physiques as well as their unusual tree-climbing skills. Time and again these normally terrestrial cats are spotted catching the cooling breeze in the fig trees of the plains. Another spectacular feature of the Plains is the open terrain, which means that lion hunts can often be watched from start to finish.

Last year’s peak season saw a 90%+ chance of daily lion sightings, with more than 20% of these sightings including lions in tree s and over 30% of them lions on kills. Other predators that can be seen are cheetah, leopard, spotted hyaena and serval. The spectacular herbivore diversity includes puku, lechwe and wildebeest in large numbers, while the rarities include the stately roan, nimble oribi, secretive sitatunga and unusual Lichtenstein’s hartebeest.

Rhino walks (Image credit Mike Myers)

Mvuu Camp update

Warm days and cool evenings with clear glassy skies packed with beautiful stars is the order of the day, at Mvuu, our magical comfortable Lodge perched on the banks of the mighty Zambezi. The fishing has not been spectacular although a nice big 25kg Vundu was caught, but over our recent Easter weekend when our whole camp was packed to the brim, everyone seemed happy just to laze away the weekend putting rods in the water, watching the game or just chilling with a nice cold beer or G&T.

Before Easter though, we were lucky to be chosen as the venue for Rory Parks Bachelor weekend. It was the first time we had hosted a bachelors and although we were a bit sceptical at first, the bachelors were so well behaved and thoroughly seemed to enjoy their weekend away. They managed to create a perfect combination of drinking, fishing and antics that go with any bachelor party. A few nice size tiger fish were caught but I think their main concentration was on the little green bottles that are plentiful at our Lodge. The feedback we had was very complimentary and one of our staff even commented…. “Eish those bachelors…they have a good fun together”.

The river is looking spectacular at this time of the year, well actually all year round, but our cooler days are so enjoyable and it takes a lot to beat sitting round a nice big camp fire enjoying the noises of the African bush. Our spacious camp sites, two of which are on the banks of the Zambezi, and five others set back all have their own ablution blocks with hot running water, braai areas and a camp hand ready to help you with whatever you may need. If you yearn for a bit more luxurious camping our self-catering chalets are so popular with hot running water, sociable open areas in front of the chalets ideal for fires, cooking and chats, and all perched with a beautiful view over the river. Sit back and soak in this superb view. Our self-catering trunks are very popular as they are fully equipped with knives, plates, glasses, pots pans, a two plate gas stove, to make it easy for your ultimate camping or self-catering experience. The lodge is in the wild though so please watch out for the chomping night hippos or quietly roaming elephants plodding through the camp and of course the ever boisterous irritating monkeys who are just waiting in anticipation of any morsel that is available to their prying eyes. The baboons are not so forward but quietly lurk around also ready to feast on anything left out so please be wary. If you are more inclined to a few days of luxury our Bemba tents are ideal and we can design special packages for large groups or just a quiet romantic weekend for two.

Mvuu Lodge looks forward to welcoming you to our new look new feel lodge for the new season, come and enjoy and leave the stresses behind.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Mvuu Camp

Gorges Lodge refurbishment

Our refurbishment program at Gorges Lodge is well underway and our first four rooms are complete. We hope to complete the remaining 6 rooms over the course of this year.

In our refurbisheded rooms we have removed the multiple small glass pane frames on the windows and sliding doors and replaced them with large single glass panes, as well as mosquito gauze, so the doors and windows can now be opened to allow cool air in and the gauze will keep out any bugs! The rooms themselves have been enlarged, and the beds now face the gorge. The rooms have new overhead fans within feature mosquito net canopies and all the furniture and soft furnishings are new.

The bathrooms have been made bigger and we have taken out the old baths and replaced them with a big feature double shower complete with seating area, twin shower heads plus a third hand held shower unit. The bathrooms now have twin vanities, new floors, new toilets and new light fittings.

Journalists who stayed at Gorges Lodge recently did a write up in the Cape Times newspaper:

Cape Times - 17 July - River of dreams - Gorges lodge saves the day.

Zambezi Traveller Directory
Imvelo Safari Lodges

HAC launches Air Safari service

Do you want to explore Africa in a way like never before? Do you long for adventure and experiences that don’t come every day? Do you want to take off into the sunset (or at sunrise) and venture to the most extraordinary corners of the continent Africa has to offer? Well then we invite you to join us on an Air Safaris with HAC. This is a tailor made Air Safaris service offering where we attend to every detail of your travel.

Our Air Safaris service offering includes the arrangement of return Private Charter flights to the destination of your choice as well as all transfers, accommodation, meals and activities once on location. Our Air Safaris service offering includes the professional accompaniement of HAC hosts. Expect unparallelled levels of service and stress free travel where every detail is taken care of allowing you, our guests, to simply sit back and enjoy the experience of being on an Air Safaris with HAC.

Air Safaris destinations include Vilanculos, Chirundu, Kariba and Victoria Falls, but where in Africa do you want to go?

For all inquiries, contact us on marketing@haczim.com. We look forward to showing you Africa in a way like never before.

Zambezi Traveller Directory
Halsted’s Aviation Corporation

Four new suites at The Elephant Camp

Wild Horizons and The Elephant Camp are pleased to announce the introduction of four new tented suites to be constructed to the west of the current 12 room facility.

The requirement for rooms at The Elephant Camp continues to exceed availability and in addition we see an increased demand from small groups and families requiring an “exclusive” lodge experience.

The new suites will act as a hybrid between an extension of the current camp, as well as a stand-alone facility offering an exclusive experience for up to 12 people. The new facility will offer its own central lounge, bar and dining area with a main deck and pool, as well as its own curio shop and kitchen. The new suites will have their own duty manager and team of guides and staff, who will fall under the general management of The Elephant Camp, and utilize some of the main camp’s back-of-house services.

The new facility will offer cuisine of the same high standard as that offered by The Elephant Camp, with catering staff being managed and overseen by the Executive Chef at the main Elephant Camp.

The four new tented suites will be the same size, style and design as the current rooms – with each consisting of it’s own bedroom area (interchangeable between double & twin), lounge, bathroom with indoor and outside shower, and private deck and plunge pool overlooking a waterhole and the Victoria Falls National Park, with views of the spray of the Fall in the distance. Each suite will also be equipped with a fold out sleeper-couch to cater for small families.

Bush clearing will be kept to a bare minimum during the development of the new suites in accordance with Wild Horizons’ environmental policy. The suites have been sited so as to utilize the existing trees and vegetation to create as much natural privacy as possible. Other green initiatives being implemented include utilizing ‘grey water’ systems and solar water heaters where possible. Along with the construction of the four suites and main facility, there will be a small admin office/curio shop/public washroom tent as well as extra staff accommodation and staff canteen incorporated into the blueprints.

The opening date for the extension of the Elephant Camp is January 2015.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Wild Horizons Accommodation

Gorges and Bomani Combo

Gorges and Bomani Combo - Stay for 6 pay for 4

Usual package rate (Rack): US$1890 per person sharing

Special package rate (Rack): US$1430 per person sharing – a saving of US$460

This special package rate includes 3 nights at Gorges Lodge in Victoria Falls and 3 nights at Bomani Tented Lodge in Hwange National Park.

Includes:
- Return airport transfers to Victoria Falls Airport
- Return road transfers between Gorges and Bomani lodges
- Accommodation, all meals, drinks and laundry at both camps
- Usual activities whilst at Gorges, choose from black eagle viewing with - sundowners, traditional dancing display, a visit to see the mighty Victoria Falls or a local village and school visit
- Return transfers to Victoria Falls town for each night of your stay at Gorges Lodge
- All safari activities at Bomani, choose from morning and afternoon game drives, game walks, ‘pump runs’ (a full day out in Hwange National Park) or village and school visits all with the service of a qualified guide whilst on safari
- Hwange National Parks entry fee at Bomani and Victoria Falls Park entrance fee

Valid until end 2014

Zambezi Traveller Directory
Imvelo Safari Lodges

The story of a lion called Goose

By Julian Brookstein,
Camp Hwange, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.

With thanks to Julian Brookstein and Camp Hwange for allowing us to repost this story.

The story as I know it of Goose….

Anybody that stayed with us at Camp Hwange last season would have surely heard of or been lucky enough to see Goose. Goose is a male lion that was resident on our concession for much of last season. He was named Goose when he was first darted and collared by the Hwange Lion research team in 2005 at around age five. He was darted at Dwarf Goose pan which happens to be on our concession. After this he more or less took up residence in the Nehimba area which is to the east of Camp Hwange.

Goose....this photo was taken end of last year behind Camp Hwange Zimbabwe. He was over thirteen years old here. A pensioner in the lion world.

Hwange is blessed with a very healthy lion population. Almost at its carrying capacity, so with this in mind it tells us that all the good lion “real-estate” is taken. Goose held this Nehimba area for around seven years on his own as far as I know. This is a massive achievement considering that there are always other lions looking to take over your area. He was still holding that area at age thirteen which is basically very seldom done in the lion world. Generally a male lion has around three years between the ages of five and eight to make the most of things as this is when he is in his prime. There are cases whereby older lions are kicked out and may become nomadic and them team up with other males possible younger than them and try and hold a territory again.

Goose in his time as King of the Nehimba area sired many cubs. The ones that are most known to us at Camp Hwange are Daniel, Day and Lewis. Of which we now have Day and Lewis left after Daniel was shot. He is also the father of a lion called Vusi.

Last year in August two new lions that we had never seen before appeared on our concession. One looked much older than other and had a collar. We contacted lion research and they told us these two were called Naxha and Vusi and had come from an area about fifty kilometers away.

Naxha and Vusi when they first came onto the Camp Hwange concession.

Those of you that have read my stories will know the circumstances of how Daniel was shot. After Daniel was shot his two Brothers Day and Lewis stopped coming into our area and moved towards Masuma. I believe that this is what opened the door for Naxha and Vusi to enter our area. They soon realized that there were no dominant male lions in this area patrolling and calling so moved in. They spent a bit of time here and I think realised that to go west meant to go where Day and Lewis were and that going east was to where Goose was. They went east and after a big dust up chased Goose from the area that he had held for all that time.

From left to right...Day, Lewis and Daniel.

After this Goose came to our concession, when we first saw him he was in bad shape after the fight and we were not sure if he would make it. He pulled through though. Then not long after that we found him again looking thin and in a very bad way after he had decided to kill a porcupine and had lots of quills in his chest and face. We though he would not make it. Luckily for him at the time it was the dry season so there were elephants dying from lack of water. He managed to find some of these dead elephants and put weight back on and the quills worked loose and again he bounced back.

We were very happy to have Goose on the concession as we could just about find him daily within a few kilometers of the camp. He hung around for some months and all the time acted like he owned the place. Defiantly roaring and scent marking as if to remind the two that kicked him out that he was still around. He was always known as an angry lion. Lions have personalities as do most things. His was just plain angry. Despite having seen vehicle for most of his life he would still charge the car, sometimes after you had been sitting with him for half an hour already!

At the end of the year Naxha and Vusi again came into our area and this is when Goose left our area for good. Obvioulsy not wanting another fight as by now he was basically a pensioner in the lion world. He left and ended up heading towards the main camp area. However he was constantly on the move as wherever he went there were younger fitter stronger lions that he had to stay out of the way of.

Sadly Africa is not what it once was and these magical animals don’t have the territory that they need to roam in. Recently Goose left the park and went into the communal areas that border on the park. The lion research team made the surrounding villages aware that there was a lion in the area. He was I am sure looking for an easy meal in the way of a cow or donkey.

Very sadly a child was sent in the night to get some matches and Goose killed the child. He was shot at the site.

What a very sad way for a child to lose a life and for the story of such a magnificent animal to end.

By Julian Brookstein,

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Camp Hwange

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Norman Carr Safaris and Chongwe Safaris collect the accolades

 

The 2014 Safari Awards were announced recently, and Nornman Carr and Chongwe Safaris in Zambia were placed in 5 of the 18 categories, winning 3 of them. Overall Zambia performed well in the awards, highlighting the country as the region's rising star.

Winner - Best New Property in Africa – Chinzombo, Norman Carr Safaris
Winner - Best Guiding Team in Africa – Norman Carr Safaris
Winner - Best Walking Safari in Africa – Norman Carr Safaris
Highly Commended – Best Safari House in Africa – Chongwe River House
Highly Commended – Best Value Safari in Africa – Chongwe River Camp

Congratulations to all. Running safaris takes a huge company-wide effort, and on top of incredible locations and fabulous wildlife, it’s the team in camp which really brings the whole experience to life; from the gardeners to the guides.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Norman Carr Safaris
Chongwe Safaris

 

20 things you may not know about Victoria Falls

This year marks the 20th Birthday of Africa Albida Tourism’s flagship property, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic hotels. Famous for the wide, expansive vistas and its on-site waterhole, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge has developed into an internationally acclaimed, award-winning hotel.

Kicking off the countdown for Victoria Falls Safari Lodge’s 20th birthday celebrations in December 2014, here are 20 things you may not know about Victoria Falls:

• Devil’s Cataract, on the Zimbabwe side of the Victoria Falls, has a drop of 60m, making it the lowest of the five Falls. Re-opened in August 2013, the Devil’s Cataract view point is a great vantage point from which to view the Falls. Be careful though, the steps are often wet and slippery!

• Because of the spray from the falls, the Rain Forest at Victoria Falls is the only place on earth where it rains 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it well and truly a ‘rainforest’.

• During a full moon, if the conditions are ideal, one can see a ‘moonbow’ also known as a lunar rainbow at Victoria Falls. Seen through the spray at night instead of during the day as a solar rainbow, the colour scheme and the shape of the curvature of the moonbow, are exactly the same as the beautiful rainbow seen in the day time.

• One can take a walk in the Zambezi National Park with the Victoria Falls Anti Poaching Unit (VFAPU), and support efforts to protect the wildlife and environment of Victoria Falls. Charles Brightman, a local safari operator and conservationist, together with the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, established the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU), in January 1999. VFAPU has worked in close co-operation with the National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, to achieve many successes.

• Described as an unforgettable African experience infused with mouth watering local cuisine, spirited dance performances and traditional storytelling. Baxton Mashuku and Joseph Nyangani, have been selling curios at the Boma since 2001. Caught wood-poaching by the VFAPU scouts in 2001, the gentlemen were offered the option of sourcing their wood sustainably and in exchange, would be able to sell their hand-crafted curios at The Boma - Place of Eating. They have been legally and sustainably selling curios for the past twelve years! These gentlemen are an amazing example of creating sustainable solutions that benefit the environment and the local community. You can find them every evening, come rain or shine at The Boma – Place of Eating.

• For the next 15 years, powered by Telecel, one of 1,8 million different colour possibilities will illuminate the Victoria Falls Bridge each night – it truly is a spectacle to behold!

• Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Spanning all corners of the Earth, the Grand Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef, the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro, Mount Everest, the Polar Aurora and the Paricutin volcano make up the remaining 6.

• In 1989, Victoria Falls was inscribed as a World Heritage Site. This means that Victoria Falls, as a World Heritage site, belongs to all peoples of the world.

• Taita falcons, one of the world’s rarest raptors, have been recorded nesting in the Victoria Falls gorge. Victoria Falls is home to other threatened bird species such as African Skimmers, rock pratincole, grey-headed parrot, Lilian's Llvebird, lappet-faced, hooded and white-backed vultures – so keep an eye-out and you may spot one of these threatened species.

• Stone artefacts from the hominin Homo habilis have been identified near the Falls and show that early humans may have lived here two million years ago.

• Victoria Falls Airport will be able to accommodate wide-body jets by mid 2014, thanks to the new 4 km runway currently being built. Catch sight of it as you come in for landing!

• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Club and the new Victoria Falls Safari Suites are all western facing, allowing guests the opportunity to enjoy splendid vistas of African sunsets.

• Victoria Falls hosts the annual Jameson Victoria Falls Carnival in December, the tough but inspiring, Econet Victoria Falls Marathon and 3 day Mountain Bike Challenge in June.

• The Zambezi River is the fourth longest river in Africa, after the Nile, Congo, and Niger Rivers.

• The Zambezi River flows through six countries, Zambia, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

• Victoria Falls lies almost half way along the Zambezi River in its 1677 mile stretch from its source to the Indian Ocean.

• The Africa Albida Tourism properties are the only properties in the area to have a no-fly zone above them.

• Victoria Falls is one and a half times wider and twice as high as Niagara.

• The Victoria Falls Bridge, completed in 1905 measures 650 feet in total length and stands 400 feet above the river, nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. Constructed by building anchored cantilevers from the edges of the gorge toward the centre, the bridge was considered a feat of engineering in its day.

• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge has recently been voted in the Top 25 Resorts and Safari Camps in Africa by Conde’ Nast Traveler – the only Zimbabwean property to be listed in this category.

>The Africa Albida Tourism collection also includes the chic, butler service Victoria Falls Safari Club, the RCI Gold Crown Resort, Lokuthula Lodges, the luxury Ngoma Safari Lodge in Chobe, Botswana, the a la carte MaKuwa-Kuwa restaurant and the enthralling Boma- Place of Eating. A new addition to the Africa Albida Tourism portfolio in December 2013, are the spacious Victoria Falls Safari Suites.

Congratulations and Happy 20th Birthday Victoria Falls Safari Lodge!

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Wilderness Safaris Zambia & Zimbabwe Specials

Wilderness Safaris offers superb wildlife and cultural encounters in both Zambia and Zimbabwe - true gems in the African wilderness. Divided by the great Zambezi River, both countries allow for unspoilt journeys through impressive National Parks, where a variety of habitats are home to multiple mammal and bird species. In addition to the world-renowned Victoria Falls, where your journey may begin or end, you can expect thrilling safaris, adrenaline adventures and encounters with some of the friendliest people to host you.

2014 NEW YEAR SPECIALS

Discounted Flying Rates 2014

 

Davison's Camp Wilderness Safaris, Hwange National Park, Zambia (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

On a stay of three consecutive nights (or longer) at Davison’s Camp, Little Makalolo or Ruckomechi Camp in Zimbabwe, receive a discount of 50% on the scheduled Wilderness Air flying seat rates between these camps and/or Victoria Falls/Harare as the points of origin or departure.

We have also reduced our Zambia flying rates by 20% for the 2014 season. No minimum stay is required at Busanga Bush Camp or Shumba Camp, and these lower rates apply to bookings between Lusaka and Kafue as well as Livingstone and Kafue.

Private Guides accommodated FREE in Zimbabwe camps

On a minimum stay of two nights at Little Makalolo, Davison’s and Ruckomechi camps, private guides will be hosted free of charge in guide accommodation from 11 January 2014 to 10 January 2015. Please do note that only one complimentary guide can be accommodated at any one time.

FREE Hot Air Ballooning in the Kafue

 

Balloning Busanga Plains, Wilderness Safaris, Kafue National Park, Zambia (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

Stay for three nights in one of our stunning camps on the Busanga Plains – Shumba or Busanga Bush Camp – in August, September or October and be treated to the most exclusive hot air ballooning in Africa on a complimentary basis. This breathtaking activity takes in the pristine scenery and wildlife of the plains before concluding with a champagne breakfast.

Ruckomechi Camp Introduces Unique ‘Sleep-out’ Experience in Mana Pools

Wilderness Safaris Ruckomechi Camp in Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe has introduced a unique, sleep-out option for adventurous guests on an outdoor deck overlooking the wildlife-rich Parachute Pan. Situated about 400m from the main camp, the Parachute Pan ‘sleep-out’ deck offers guests a truly intimate, up-close-and-personal wilderness experience and the unique opportunity of sleeping under the stars in the Zambezi Valley.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES:

DISTINCTIVE ZAMBEZI AND KAFUE (7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS)

 

Busanga Plains, Wilderness Safaris, Kafue National Park, Zambia (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

Experience the great wildlife spectacle of Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a World Heritage Site, followed by the expansive and diverse Busanga Plains of Zambia’s Kafue National Park where herds of antelope are followed closely by lion prides. The trip’s grand finale is the impressive and mesmerising Victoria Falls.

Days 1, 2, 3: Fly from Victoria Falls Airport to Ruckomechi Camp, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Days 4, 5, 6: Transfer by boat, road and air to Busanga Bush Camp, Kafue National Park, Zambia
Day 7: Fly to Toka Leya Camp, Livingstone, Zambia
Day 8: Road transfer to Livingstone International Airport

(Operating 01 June to 31 October 2014. Departs on a Monday from Victoria Falls and ends in Livingstone on a Monday.)

ZIMBABWE HIGHLIGHTS (7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS)

 

Ruckomechi Camp, Wilderness Safaris, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

This exciting safari combines three of the most diverse and spectacular areas in Zimbabwe including Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools National Park, each celebrated for fascinating wildlife and magnificent scenery. Your journey begins and ends at Victoria Falls, where you can extend your trip and enjoy this natural wonder of the world.

Days 1, 2: Fly from Victoria Falls Airport to Davison’s Camp, Hwange National Park
Days 3, 4: Fly to Changa Camp, Lake Kariba
Days 5, 6, 7: Fly to Ruckomechi Camp, Mana Pools National Park
Day 8: Return to Victoria Falls Airport by light aircraft for your onward arrangements

(Operating 1 April through to 15 November 2014. Daily departures from and returning to Victoria Falls, with the option of flying to Harare from Ruckomechi.)

ZIMBABWE SUMMER SPECIAL (6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS)

Little Makalolo Camp, Wilderness Safaris, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

We begin this safari in Hwange National Park where summer rainfall brings the surrounding plains to life, displaying incredible concentrations of wildlife. We then continue on to Changa Safari Camp, built on the shores of Lake Kariba, with stunning views of the mysterious Matusadona Mountains. Your journey begins and ends at Victoria Falls, where you can extend your trip and enjoy this natural wonder of the world.

Days 1, 2 & 3: Fly from Victoria Falls Airport to Little Makalolo Camp or Davison’s Camp, Hwange National Park
Days 4, 5 & 6: Fly to Changa Camp, Lake Kariba
Day 7: Return to Victoria Falls Airport by light aircraft for onward arrangements

(Valid from 11 January to 31 March 2014. Daily departures from and returning to Victoria Falls.)

BEST OF ZAMBIA (6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS)

 

Cheetah (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

As one of the most rewarding African wildlife destinations, this safari offers the best of Zambia. Landlocked, this country is a land of large rivers: the Zambezi, Kafue, Lufupa and Luangwa Rivers are all the centrepieces of some of the wildest and most remote game areas on the continent.

Days 1, 2 & 3: Fly from Lusaka Airport to Busanga Bush Camp, Kafue National Park, Zambia
Days 4, 5 & 6: Fly back to Lusaka for a scheduled flight to Mfuwe and onward connection to Puku Ridge, Kapamba Bush Camp or Nkwali Camp, South Luangwa National Park
Day 7: Return to Lusaka Airport for onward arrangements

Add-on: Extend your stay and discover the wildlife and spectacular scenery of the legendary Zambezi River:
Days 7, 8 & 9: Chiawa Camp or Chongwe River Camp or Kasaka River Lodge, Lower Zambezi National Park.

(Operating 01 June to 31 October 2014.)

Note: These are suggested itineraries only – please contact your Journey Specialist for pricing as a variety of options are possible, including points of arrival and departure.

For more information and pricing on the suggested itineraries, contact your journey specialist or email emmah@wilderness.co.zw or joleenr@wilderness.co.zw.

Community and conservation news from African Bush Camps

Hwange H20 Campaign Update - Umkawuzaan Solar Project up and running

In partnership with Elefence International, the installation of a solar panel and pump was completed in December 2013 at Umkawazaan Pan within the Somalisa Concession. Elefence International Director, Dick Houston was in Zimbabwe and on site when the installation was done. The pan is looking spectacular, the water is pumping, aiding the already good rains Hwange is experiencing, and the wildlife is already frequenting the waterhole.

In 2014 we look forward to further developing our partnership with Elefence International as we embark on developing more solar boreholes in the most desperate areas of Hwange National Park.

Mambanje Community Development and Solar Project

Mambanje Community is one of the most remote communities in the greater Hwange area but also in very close proximity to the National Park, making it a very vulnerable community with regards to human/animal conflict. We embarked on a large range of grassroots development projects with the community in 2013 including improving the grade 7 pass rate of the school (which went from 0% in 2012 to 15% in 2013), building adequate accommodation for teachers, building another classroom block so that each grade has its own classroom, and building a road to the community and school.

In 2014 African Bush Camps Foundation will continue with these developments and in addition have embarked on a new project in collaboration with Elefence International, to install a solar pump for the borehole and at the same time providing the school with solar power for the classrooms and the teachers accommodation. African Bush Camps Foundation is focused on sustainable development to ensure that the communities surrounding the National Parks are benefiting from the Tourism Dollar so as to preserve the area and its wildlife for future generations.

African Bush Camps Foundation - New Partnership

Thank you Pam Goosen and Mawabeni Designs for their support. The first round of new products using the Vukani Projects recycled beads are now ready for sale.

Vukani is a Ndebele word meaning 'to get up and do it for yourself.' This is a group of 14 men and women who are unemployed and have teamed up to engage in self-help income generating projects. The group is based in the village of Dete, just outside Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. They started with an organic gardening project and now also makes beads using recycled paper and fashions jewlery including bracelets, earrings and necklaces from these beautiful beads. The money they raise is used to help disadvantaged people in the group such as the widows and orphans who are under the care of the members. Beside the welfare of its members, the group is targeting to take care of two widows and 14 orphans and four disabled under the care of the group.

THE VUCHE VUCHE CRAFT PROJECT 

The Vuche Vuche Basket Weaving Co-operative began in January 2011. The group was started by Maggie Zambo and a few other ladies and aimed to create employment for women who were either not employed or only employed on a part time basis, but who had financial obligations to their families, for example, educating their children. The group now consists of twenty ladies, some of whom are widows and having to take care of their families solely and others who are taking care of orphaned children or their elderly parents. The money earned helps with the building of their craft shop and the surplus is used for food and education for the ladies’ families.

Their materials are harvested from the bush around the nearby village of Satau and all dyes used are natural. By collecting these reeds it helps the growth of the plant, making it sustainable for the environment. It can take anywhere from three days to a month to create the baskets. At the moment, the ladies’ only market is self-drives who visit Chobe National Park or people who know about the group. They are hoping to expand this with the building of their craft shop and by selling their wares through African Bush Camps accommodations in Botswana & Zimbabwe.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
African Bush Camps

Five things to do while staying at the Victoria Falls Safari Suites

Opened on 20 December 2013, the Victoria Falls Safari Suites are the newest addition to the Africa Albida Tourism portfolio.

Built alongside the sophisticated Victoria Falls Safari Club and a short walk away from the famed Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the Safari Suites offer privacy and space.

The Safari Suites are comprised of 6 luxury units, of which 4 are 2 en suite bedroom units and 2 are 3 en suite bedroom units and are ideal for families, small close–knit groups and couples who seek extra space and comfort. Five things to do while staying in the Safari Suites:

1. The Safari Suites each have a spacious lounge with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors opening out onto a splendid patio. So chill out and enjoy the sound of the bush surrounds.

2. Challenge the children to identify 5 birds and mammals seen from the comfort of the Safari Suites. There are children’s mammal and bird books in each of the Safari Suites.

3. Enjoy an evening of dancing, singing, drumming, eating and so much more at The Boma – Place of Eating, a short walk away from the Safari Suites.

4. Take a tour of Victoria Falls. You can book a tour with the resort’s guide as you check into the Safari Suites. Remember to rent a raincoat!

5. Explore the town of Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge resort offers a complimentary hourly shuttle into town. There is much to see in Victoria Falls town, from the residential warthog families, to the brightly coloured textiles and unique art and craft on offer.

The Safari Suites provide home comforts such as a 46-inch LCD TV with satellite TV, Wi-Fi, a courtesy counter with minibar refrigerator, preparation sink, Nespresso machine, beverage station, popcorn maker, iPod docking station and a separate adjoining TV lounge with a 22-inch LCD monitor for connection to Xbox, Nintendo, Wii and PS3 for iPods. A sofa bed located in the TV lounge can sleep one extra person (recommended for a child) if needed.

All Safari Suites are split-level and fully air-conditioned, and offer fans, mosquito nets, hairdryers, telephones, digital safes, complimentary tea and coffee making facilities, plus a range of quality toiletries including insect repellent and sunscreen lotion.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Camelthorn Lodge Special

Camelthorn Lodge – Imvelo Safari Lodges

Our fantastic specials are valid until the 30th April 2014.

Pay for 2, stay for 3 at Camelthorn Lodge

Special Package Rate (Rack): US$880 per person sharing

Usual Package Rate (Rack): US$1320 – a saving of $440

Included:

All meals, all drinks, all safari activities, including morning and afternoon game drives, game walks, ‘pump runs’ (a full day out in Hwange National Park) or village and school visits all with the service of a qualified guide, laundry service, national park entry fees.

For more information on these specials to check availability please contact Sjaan on reservations@imvelosafarilodge.som or (+263 9) 65640.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Imvelo Safari Lodges

Kiambi Safari Special

Kiambi Safaris, Kariba & Middle Zambezi, Zambia

From 1st December to the 28th of February below.

Luxury air-conditioned chalets:
K560 per person per night sharing
K690 per person per night single
K370 per child per night for Children between 5 and 15.

Children 4 years and below visit for free.

Luxury thatched en-suite chalet:
K560 per person per night sharing
K690 per person per night single
K370 per child per night for Children between 5 and 15.

Children 4 years and below visit for free.

Rates quoted include 3 Meals per person per day that is breakfast, lunch and dinner from the clients day of arrival . There is a complimentary sunset cruise included in a two nights visit with us. Kindly note that for a three or more nights visit a complimentary sunset cruise as well as a three hour canoe excursion is included.

Zambezi Traveller Directory
Kiambi Safaris

Kalahari Skies 12 day Botswana Special

A very special trip, real adventure is the new: 'Botswana all–in-one'.

12 day Safari – Highlights: Nxai Pan - Makgadigadi National Park | Boteti River │ Central Kalahari Game Reserve │ Moremi Game Reserve │ Bushman Experience │ Mokoro trip │ Authentic Village tour

Day 1 - Nxai Pan NP (camping)

Your guide will meet you at Maun Airport on your arrival. After a short briefing by your guide we head for Nxai Pan NP where we still have time for a sunset drive. During dinner you’ll have a complete explanation by your guide about the rest of the tour and you can ask all you want to know about the country and its people.

Day 2 - Nxai Pan NP (camping)

We make a morning drive in the area where we can meet the Kalahari species: black-maned lions, suricate, honey badger, springbok, oryx,…. Back to camp for lunch and late afternoon we visit the salt pans and make a game drive in the vicinity of our camp. Dinner at the campfire.

Day 3 - Meno a Kwena Lodge

We head South to our destination: a lodge on the edge of the Boteti river overlooking the Makgadigadi NP. We have a interesting walk with Bushmen to learn about their survival skills and culture and who wants can join on a night drive to spot the nocturnal animals.

Day 4, 5 & 6 - Central Kalahari Game Reserve (camping)

We make an early start with coffee/tea and a healthy snack before boarding our game viewing vehicle to head off to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Once inside the Park a game drive takes us to our camp for the night. Dinner is enjoyed around the campfire at our exclusive campsite. Days 5 & 6 are spent game viewing in and around thewell-known Deception Valley area where we have set up camp in the northern section of the Park.

Day 7 - Maun - guesthouse

We leave after a last short game-drive and arrive for lunch in Maun, the gateway to the Okavango delta. For those who want, a flight over the Okavango Delta can be organized at own expense. We book into our private guesthouse along the ThamalakaneRiver, splendid views and a superb sundown are enjoyed on the deck. Time to relax and shower before dinner.

Day 8 - Mokoro trip

We rise early and after a healthy breakfast we once more board our game viewing vehicle: Today we make a short drive to the edge of the Okavango delta where we go to explore the lagoons using dugouts (mokoros). We make a bushwalk on one of the islands and enjoy a picnic lunch. Once back in the village we take a walk to learn how the people live traditionally along the Okavango. We are back at our guesthouse late afternoon.

Day 9, 10 & 11 - Moremi Game Reserve (camping)

An interesting game drive takes us to Moremi, where we have set up our camp for the next 3 nights. The Moremi Game Reserve is the perfect area for large herds of elephants, zebra, wildebeest and giraffe families, not forgetting the many predators that follow them. Early morning and afternoon game drives are planned for the days with brunch and time to rest up and shower in between.

Day 12 - Moremi to Maun

After an early breakfast we game drive out of the Park. We will part from you at the airport for all further transfers to your chosen hotel, flight or other chosen destination in Maun.

Rack rate from 4 pax onwards: 3757 U$ pp all inclusive (except international flights, visa, travel and annulation insurance, personal expenses and optional activities). For a private safari with 2 pax Rack is 4970 U$ pp.

- All direct bookings confirmed before 28 February 2014 will enjoy a 5% discount for early booking

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Kalahari Skies

Gorges Lodge and Bomani Tented Lodge Combo

Gorges Lodge and Bomani Tented Lodge Combo – Pay for 4 nights, stay for 6

Special package rate (Rack): US$1430 per person sharing

Usual package rate (Rack): US$1890 per person sharing – a saving of US$460

This special package rate includes 3 nights at Gorges Lodge in Victoria Falls and 3 nights at Bomani Tented Lodge in Hwange National Park.

Included:

Return airport transfers to Victoria Falls Airport, return road transfers between Gorges and Bomani , accommodation at both lodges, all meals, all drinks and laundry at both lodges. Activities whilst at Gorges includes black eagle viewing with sundowners, traditional dancing display, a visit to see the mighty Victoria Falls and a local village and school visit, return transfers to Victoria Falls town for each night of your stay at Gorges Lodge. Safari activities at Bomani include morning and afternoon game drives, game walks, ‘pump runs’ (a full day out in Hwange National Park) or village and school visits all with the service of a qualified guide and National Parks entry fees.

For more information on these specials to check availability please contact Sjaan on reservations@imvelosafarilodge.som or (+263 9) 65640.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Imvelo Safari Lodges

Norman Carr Safaris Secret Season Special

The ‘Secret Season’ is upon us here in the Luangwa Valley and Norman Carr Safaris would love to share this with you as it’s generally perceived as a less than optimal time to visit, which is completely untrue! It is often one of the best times to see wild dog and the bush is green and lush and stunning. We now have more options with wildly luxurious Chinzombo, family friendly Kapani and adventurous Kakuli open to visitors.

We have launched a great last minute itinerary:

Secret Season – Week on the Wildside

- 7 nights
- Valid now until 10 April
- Combination of Chinzombo, Kakuli and Kapani
- We choose the itinerary
- $3060pp - no single supplement

- PLUS $370 Park Fees + flights
- All inclusive of VAT, meals, standard bar drinks, laundry, Mfuwe Airport road transfers and game viewing. Excluding top shelf spirits/premium wine/champagne

Email Zillah on bookings@normancarrsafaris.com for more details.

David Rogers Photography at Baines’ River Camp

Baines River Camp offers anyone interested in photography an opportunity to learn from world renowned professional wildlife photographer David Rogers. Whilst improving their photography skills participants will enjoy a top class safari.

Details:
• David Rogers Photography @ Baines’ River Camp
• 15-19 September 2014
• 4 nights’
• US$ 2,678 per person
• Includes return flights Lusaka to Baines, photographic workshop, all meals, drinks, Lower Zambezi National Park entry fees, community and conservation levies.
• For full details, contact david: david@davidrogers.co.za

September is without a doubt the best time to visit the Lower Zambezi Valley and Baines’ River Camp offers superb workshop facilities.

Zambezi Traveller Directory
Baines River Camp