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Scintilla Travel

We are a boutique, full-service tour operator that specialises in immersive and unique experiences.
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04/09/2024

“My partner proposed to me in the early days of our travels and Janine from Scintilla went above and beyond to help us celebrate. She and the team organised us a special dinner at our safari lodge - Umkumbe in Sabi Sands - and even had our proposal photo framed and in our hotel room waiting for us. I would recommend Janine and Scintilla for your next Africa adventure!” Bec Hurley, Australia

If you are also looking for a special holiday, to celebrate a honeymoon, anniversary or a big birthday - then please get in touch with us as this is something that we specialise in and delight in creating once-in-a-lifetime holiday moment and memories.

02/09/2024

The Cape Winelands is a spectacular paradise for wine lovers and adventurers alike. Rolling vineyards stretch across fertile valleys, framed by majestic mountains and historic Cape Dutch architecture.

Charming towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl each offer world-class wineries, gourmet dining, and boutique accommodations.

Here, you can wander through lush vineyards, indulge in wine tastings, and savour exquisite farm-to-table cuisine. Beyond the vineyards, enjoy scenic hikes, art galleries, and vibrant local markets.

The Cape Winelands is a harmonious blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and culinary delight— and the best way to experience it is with the experienced guides on a Scintilla day trip. Our guides have years of experience and elevate each Winelands experience even further.

29/08/2024

There are many different types of travel experiences but the ones that often resonate for the longest are the ones that take you into the heart and soul of a place, like the ‘My Beautiful Home Bicycle Ride’ in Zimbabwe.

On this well-plotted and carefully planned cycle route through villages and rural homes in the Matopos, you will pedal along paths, the kind that leads herds of cattle to a well and encounter a village that truly reflects the typical traditional African homesteads.

These rural homes are some of the most extraordinary in the world. Using materials that nature provides, the locals have built themselves beautiful, styled and decorated huts. You’ll feel the spirit of rural life and the warm hearts and souls of Zimbabwe people that you meet along your journey as proud residents invite you into their lives.

27/08/2024

Meet Janine, one of Scintilla’s travel experts 🌅

Janine’s wanderlust spirit was ignited at a young age, on annual family road trips from KwaZulu-Natal, along the Garden Route to Cape Town. “After leaving school, I studied a bit and then ventured over to New York for a year and discovered the travel bug.

“I have travelled the world extensively and my favourite countries would be Sweden, Norway and Ireland. But yet, nothing comes close to our very own Africa.

I really do enjoy throwing myself into every request and ensuring that I offer the best based on the individual requirements of each one of my clients. I kind of put my feet in their shoes. It is so rewarding when you get it right – and of course, being able to visit the destinations we sell, is a gift to experience first-hand and I consider myself, beyond fortunate to be able to do so!”

23/08/2024

Did you know that Hermanus, near Cape Town, is considered the best place in the world for land-based whale watching? And did you also know we get 37 different species of whales and dolphins off the South African coastline?

The best times to see whales in South Africa are during the southern hemisphere winter and spring, particularly from June to November.

Southern Right Whales are the most commonly sighted along the South African coast. They migrate to the coastal waters of South Africa to mate and calve. Humpback Whales also migrate along the South African coast, heading to warmer waters for breeding. And Bryde's Whales can be seen year-round along the South African coast.

Whale-watching is the perfect extra ingredient in the incredible Ultimate South Africa Trip that we already offer at Scintilla and is one of our most popular tours!

19/08/2024

🌅✨ Sundowners at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge ✨🌅

Imagine this: You’re perched on the deck at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, overlooking the serene expanse of Lake Kariba. The sun begins its descent, casting a golden glow across the waters, the Matusadona National Park, and the distant Zambezi Escarpment.

As you sip on a perfectly crafted gin and tonic, the air is filled with the soft sounds of the African wilderness—distant calls of birds settling for the night and the gentle rustling of leaves in the evening breeze. In the distance, you might spot a family of elephants making their way to the water's edge for a final drink of the day.

The deck, with its chic and comfortable seating, becomes your front-row seat to one of nature’s most magnificent shows.

As twilight deepens and lanterns are lit, casting a soft, magical glow, this is your call to experience the enchanting Bumi Hills Safari Lodge.

16/08/2024

Majestic creatures of the African bush 🦁

Did you know that lions are incredibly adaptable creatures? From the maneless lions of Tsavo to the solitary desert dwellers of the Kalahari, these big cats have evolved to thrive in diverse environments.

Another fascinating fact: lionesses share the responsibility of raising cubs, creating a strong social bond within the pride.

There’s no better way to celebrate lions than to see them on a safari. Get in touch with us today so we can put you on a path towards your own lion sighting!

14/08/2024

It’s high season in the Okavango Delta now, with water levels their peak, but where does the water come from?

The Okavango Delta originates in the highlands of Angola, where the mighty Okavango River begins as just a trickle before gradually becoming the third largest river in Southern Africa that flows for over 1,600 km to reach inland Botswana.

Around 60,000 years ago, the river deposited its water into Lake Makgadikgadi. There was a huge earthquake (or earthquakes) that changed the shape of the earth’s crust to block the Okavango’s original path almost entirely.

The river water had nowhere to go and poured relentlessly into the Kalahari Desert, creating one of the largest inland deltas in the world. Today, the Okavango River continues to discharge around 11km³ of water every year into the delta. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is an enormous oasis home to a wide variety of wildlife.

05/08/2024

Zambia is hailed as the lesser-explored gem of Africa, yet holds a sense of wild beauty and awe that is hard to describe. There are an array of experiences that promise to captivate every traveller.

From the vast wilderness to the serene rivers, Zambia is a land where nature’s wonders unfold in every direction. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first safari, let Scintilla’s expertise guide you to the heart of Africa’s wild beauty.

In our latest blog, we explore what makes a Zambia luxury safari unique, from the migration of carmine bee-eaters in South Luangwa Valley to the vast Busanga Plains of Kafue teeming with wildlife. Read more at www.scintillatravel.com/blog/a-luxury-travel-guide-to-zambia.

📍: Chisa Busanga Camp
📸: Chase Bjornson

02/08/2024

Meet Charlene, Chizzy, Josh, Tony and Marcus - some of our cherished Scintilla Guides! They are the heart and soul of our tailored day tours and bring the warmth and expertise to our tours that our guests love 👋

In customised vehicles, these amazing people spark wonder and a sense of open-hearted joy within our guests as they head off on tours that celebrate the best of Cape Town, from Cape Point to the Winelands and Table Mountain and beyond. They are a special part of the team and a big part of what sets Scintilla day tours above the rest.

31/07/2024

Upon arrival, Thonga Beach Lodge unfolds before you, a haven of serenity nestled amidst pristine wilderness. Standing on the beach deck, you look down from the top of the dunes and along the golden sweep of sand that stretches away from you. Welcome to one of South Africa’s finest beach lodges.

Found on the azure shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Thonga Beach Lodge is surrounded by white beaches, blazing corals and freshwater lakes in KwaZulu-Natal.

Here lies Mabibi beach, with a World Heritage Site-protected ocean on one side and a canopied forest of ancient milkwoods on her other.

From seasonal turtle tracking to scuba diving to guided boat tours, there is always something magical to explore in this pristine part of the world.

26/07/2024

Garden Route’s Underwater Marvel.

This is sometimes what the ocean at the tip of Africa is called, and one of the best ways to explore it is on our Tsitsikamma Snorkelling Adventure.

Here, you can see the beauty of the underwater world as you snorkel across the surface of the Indian Ocean. You’ll explore the breathtaking reefs of the Storms River Mouth together with an expert guide and marvel at the kaleidoscope of colours beneath the surface, chase fish over the reefs and spot rays on the ocean floor.

24/07/2024

Perfecting your safari with a scenic helicopter trip 🚁

Located in the northeast corner of South Africa, the Panorama Route takes you through a visually stunning display of waterfalls, rugged mountain peaks and flourishing flora and fauna that stays green all year round.

From a helicopter, you’re able to fully grasp the magnificence of this incredible landscape. The Blyde River Canyon is a truly mesmerising sight. And there are multiple viewpoints along the way where you can stop to take in the surrounding vistas of the Drakensberg Escarpment down to the Lowveld.

To sweeten the deal even further, there are more waterfalls here than anywhere else in South Africa. A refreshing dip and breathtaking experience awaits at www.scintillatravel.com/experience/scenic-panorama 🚁

22/07/2024

Samara Karoo Reserve, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, has a very interesting and inspiring story.

Previously a network of 11 livestock farms, Samara was created in 1997 with the vision to restore the area to its natural state. This is being achieved by slowly rehabilitating the land and reintroducing the natural biodiversity.

Today, Samara uniquely encompasses four vegetation biomes offering a diversity of landscapes & wildlife – the Big 5, cheetahs, white & black rhinos, zebras, giraffes, springbok & black wildebeest.

It’s also home to “Samara Mara”, a magical, Serengeti-like grassland on top of a mountain. Contact us to reserve your experience today - we can confirm that it is as enchanting as it sounds!

18/07/2024

It’s Nelson Mandela’s birthday today!

A day that is known in South Africa as Mandela Day, where everyone is encouraged to spend 67 minutes giving back to whoever and wherever you can. The 67 minutes symbolically representing the 67 years the former President fought for human rights and the abolition of apartheid.

This day is a way for us to connect with the people and places in our own neighbourhoods that could do with a helping hand.

12/07/2024

Where is the best place in the world to see leopards? Some say it’s the Sabi Sands Private Reserve bordering the Kruger National Park 🐆

The leopards here have, over time, become less skittish and more comfortable being around vehicles. This means better sightings and more time spent with one of the world’s most mystical creatures.

Leopards are solitary animals, and leopards in Sabi Sands establish territories that encompass their preferred hunting grounds. The territory of a leopard usually overlaps with those of other leopards, but they tend to avoid direct encounters through scent marking and vocalisations.

10/07/2024

Food is life, but in South Africa, it's a vibrant story waiting to be devoured! Imagine a delicious marriage of Dutch spices, Malay curries, and Indian ingenuity – that's the essence of South African cuisine.

Take the iconic Bunny Chow, for example. This hollowed-out loaf of bread, overflowing with savoury goodness, is a cultural fusion masterpiece. Legend has it, resourceful workers on Durban's docks created it as a convenient, portable meal – a testament to South Africa's history of innovation and resourcefulness!

Hungry for more? Dive deeper into the fascinating world of South African cuisine at www.scintillatravel.com/blog/cuisine-flavours-of-south-africa 🥘

08/07/2024

Would you like to follow a path that elephants took to find their drinking water over 170 years ago? Yet it’s now in a city…

The coastal city of Durban in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province is rich with history. Here, you can explore one of Durban’s most vibrant roads, Florida Road – a firm favourite with the locals for shopping, dining and coffee!

See beautifully restored Victorian buildings, a variety of local street art and learn about the history of the area. Take a break in leafy, green Florida Fields and admire the oversized sculpture by South African artist Lionel Smit. All the while following in the footsteps of elephants from years passed as you experience a walking tour of Durban.

Visit www.scintillatravel.com/experience/walk-durban to learn more 🇿🇦

04/07/2024

Would you like to venture deeper into the Cape Peninsula to explore secluded wild beaches, lesser-known coves, rock pools and shipwreck hiking trails? This is what the Cape Peninsula Tour with Scintilla Escapes offers.

The Cape Peninsula is a wild and beautiful place, full of natural wonders, stunning scenery and a vibrant local lifestyle. Our aim is to spend as much time as possible out of the vehicle, so that you can really immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the peninsula.

You’ll visit bohemian seaside villages and enjoy a local scoop of ice cream, all while learning about the local culture with your Scintilla guide by your side.

02/07/2024

This 11-night trip is a dream bucket list item to book between now and November.

The 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻, 𝗞𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝘇𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽 offers the very best accommodation and experiences in South Africa’s “must-see” regions, followed by beach bliss in Mozambique.

Start your trip in the vibrant and beautiful city of Cape Town, where you’ll stay at the incomparable Cape Grace Hotel before heading off to the iconic Kruger National Park to discover the Big 5. Here you’ll be nestled in the fork of the Sand and Mabrak Rivers at Dulini Leadwood Lodge, which offers a cosy and serene getaway.

End off with an unforgettable stay in the coastal town of Vilanculos in Mozambique, where exotic, sun-baked beaches stretch on forever. Nestled above the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay in Vilanculos, Santorinis’ unfurling view of the archipelago islands and curling mainland is unforgettable.

Are you looking for a mid-year break? Then this dream trip may be the answer.

28/06/2024

Would you like to make a difference on your next trip to South Africa? The Uthando Foundation is our chosen charity that serves as an umbrella for a wide range of highly effective community projects across the country.

In order to showcase these and also to offer a glimpse into the work being done to uplift the disadvantaged in South Africa, Uthando offers daily scheduled excursions visiting the townships around Cape Town, with particular emphasis on visiting at least three of the social development projects being funded through Uthando.

Our Uthando tours offer a unique and authentic introduction to the social problems confronting millions of South Africans, while also illustrating the innovative and inspirational ways in which they are being handled by these communities.

Very importantly, the projects are not treated as tourist attractions and the tours are designed in such a way as to educate, inform and inspire while also respecting the dignity and privacy of the people concerned.

By joining a Love South Africa tour, you directly contribute to the very projects and communities supported by them. R250 per booking will go to the Uthando Foundation to aid their work.

26/06/2024

Explore the city through our taste buds at some of Cape Town’s top epicurean spots.

On our Flavours of Cape Town Tour, you’ll experience Cape Town in the company of a local with a passion for all things food and drink. Our walking food tour includes bites, nibbles and tasters at several stops in central Cape Town and the Bo-Kaap. As we walk the intercity streets and discover its rich cultural history of traditional and modern-day food, we learn more about the hottest restaurants and bars.

Food stops are specially curated, and we’ll get to meet some of the passionate purveyors and makers, who will explain the origin and preparation of these dishes – from the famous Cape Malay koeksisters and samoosas to an artisanal bakery, a chocolatier, an art gallery serving local African flavours, and more.

Are you hungry for an adventure of flavour?

23/06/2024

Celebrating the start of World Female Ranger Week! This unique celebration amplifies the voices of female rangers around the world to support their impactful work; protecting wildlife, empowering women and uplifting communities.

An exciting aspect of this week are the World Female Ranger Grants, which are open to female and mixed wildlife ranger teams. The grants support direct-action women-focused conservation initiatives globally.

The areas of interest for grantmaking include:
• Direct-action conservation
• Anti-poaching initiatives
• Community-outreach projects
• Research
• Training & education

Join us in celebrating and supporting female rangers globally that are protecting wildlife, biodiversity and wild spaces.

How Many Elephants

21/06/2024

There is something very special about Tswalu. It certainly is like nowhere else on earth, with The Kalahari Desert an entirely distinctive ecosystem, which means that you’ll see unique and diverse wildlife here. It’s a place where one heads to see those unusual creatures, the ones often missed in other parts of Africa.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is the largest private game reserve in South Africa and is home to over 80 species of mammals. The reserve offers amazing potential for seeing the incredible desert-adapted black rhino, black-maned lions, cheetahs, meerkats, aardvark and not to mention, pangolin.

Tswalu is thus both an excellent destination for the more experienced safari enthusiast as well as the maiden African traveller. Because of its novel landscape, wildlife and safari experience, Tswalu is a place you won’t want to miss out on.

19/06/2024

Lake Kariba is one of the great African bodies of water, where one can enjoy wildlife viewing from the comfort of your deck.

You can explore the expansive Lake Kariba and its abundant wildlife aboard the luxurious Matusadona Lake Cruiser, a fully equipped houseboat with a crew of four. Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Lake Kariba attracts a vast array of wildlife to its banks including lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and cheetah.

The Matusadona accommodates up to six guests comfortably, making it ideal for intimate family and group holidays. Start the day in the fresh morning air with a lavish alfresco breakfast before setting off to your next destination. Cool off in the open-air whirlpool bath and enjoy the view as you cover great distances across captivating landscapes. Once moored, Kariba’s many islands and river tributaries can be explored on a speed boat, or try your hand at angling for bream and tiger fish.

15/06/2024

Staying at Marataba Founders & Explorers is all about balancing safari adventure and conservation with a generous dose of fun – and some relaxation too.

All guests enjoy a private vehicle and dedicated guide allowing for maximum flexibility and ‘mix and match’ activities during their stay. From tracking wildlife to ice-cold G&Ts at sunset, counting elephants to laidback boat trips on the Matlabas River, your Marataba experience is entirely up to you.

Located at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Marataba National Park is a 21,000-hectare, privately-owned section of the Marakele National Park. It is one of the country’s most innovative conservation models and the perfect setting for a thoughtful, and completely flexible, safari experience.

11/06/2024

Shamwari, meaning “my friend” in Shona, is the pinnacle of private game reserves and one of the largest private conservation initiatives in Southern Africa.

Perfectly located in the heart of Eastern Cape, Sindile is Shamwari’s new luxury tented camp. The camp mimics a solitary leopard’s sanctuary, blending with the surrounding bush while providing excellent vantages over the Bushman’s River and surrounding plains.

The nine luxury free-standing tents are elevated above the surrounding bush, allowing uninhibited views, unsullied by any other man-made structures or light pollution. The harmonious, intimate design minimises the environmental footprint.

Looking to experience luxury like never before? Get in touch with us today!

06/06/2024

South African wine is having a moment, and the unique conditions coupled with new knowledge have a lot to do with it.

Lying at the tip of Africa, South Africa is surrounded by two oceans, and most of our vineyards are within 50 km of the ocean. What makes us special is that we get a cool sea breeze during the days that push in over the land, where we get warm and sunny days. This is important for acidity and the purity of the fruit.

We also have amazing mountains where we plant a lot of the vineyards, because it’s cooler there. It’s 0.8 degrees cooler for every 100 metres you go up, for example.

South African wine excellence is thanks to:
Proximity to the ocean
Our elevated mountains
And our soils of ancient granite, shale and quartz.

As for the wine farms that bring out the best in the wines. Well, you’ll need to read our latest blog for that.

04/06/2024

What is your idea of the perfect holiday destination?

Perhaps it's meeting interesting people or trying exciting activities like hiking, horse riding and game viewing. Is it lazy lunches in beautiful surroundings and days spent soaking up the sunshine on a sandy beach?

Welcome to beautiful South Africa – where we can honestly say that you can have it all. This is the world in one country. How can you not be enthralled by a country that has:
- Breathtaking beaches
- Amazing Big 5 sightings
- World-class food and wine
- Epic mountain hiking
- Near-perfect weather
- A melting pot of cultures
- A range of family-friendly activities
- Rich history

Diversity at its finest. Are you ready to explore South Africa?

31/05/2024

Picture this: You’re high on the banks of the Sabie River with nightfall a few moments away. As you take in the changing light of the sky you spot an elephant strolling into view on the river’s edge, and then another, and another, and another. You sit back in your pleated leather seat and take a long sip of your ice-cold gin and tonic. Ahhh, another day in the glorious Lion Sands Tinga Lodge.

Tinga's luxurious suites are designed not merely as places to stay but as portals to nature's grandeur. Elevated wooden pathways wind through the lodge, leading to the spa and main lodge area, which features a bar lounge, pool, and boma. Here, you can share a cocktail, enjoy good company, or savour quiet moments alone, all while being immersed in the sights and sounds of the bush.

Each suite features its own private plunge pool and deck, offering a personal sanctuary where you can unwind or watch hippos wallow below.

Address

Block A, 1 On Langford, 1 Langford Road, Westville
Durban
3629

Website

http://www.scintillatravel.com/

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