The Safari Guys

04/06/2024

Don’t miss out on this wonderful safari offer, situated at under 3 ½ hours from Johannesburg

Nkomazi Private Game Reserve

Your special offer is
R 6642.00 per tented suite per night (sleeping 2 people sharing)!

The above rate is based on 2 people sharing a Deluxe Tent & includes:

Breakfast
Afternoon High Tea
Dinner
Daily Game Drives
Tea, coffee & mineral water, house wines, local beers, local spirits (House Brands), soft drinks (excluding energy drinks) and welcome lounge transfers

Excluding conservation levy of R395 per person per night

Discount bookable until 30 June 2024 – valid for stays until 15 December 2024!!!!

Email Sue [email protected] to secure your space

Subject to availability, T’s & C’s apply

28/05/2024

Delicious Destination!

Plettenberg Bay
Walkers Beach & The Bungalow

Plettenberg Bay is located along South Africa’s Garden Route and is one of South Africa’s most loved towns. Known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and relaxed atmosphere. To my mind Plett is the epicentre of Garden Route awesomeness! Here are some reasons to visit:

Stunning Beaches
Plettenberg Bay is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa. Robberg Beach, Lookout Beach and Keurbooms Beach are some examples of where you can relax, swim, surf, and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Outdoor Activities
The area offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve, whale watching, dolphin encounters, kayaking and zip-lining through the treetops. Plett is also a great destination for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing, paddle boarding, snorkelling and I’ve heard scuba diving (?) too.
If you can tackle just one outdoor activity, whilst visiting, hiking Robberg Nature Reserve is my recommendation. The nature reserve is a must visit for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Caffeine, Wining and Dining
Good coffee, excellent pubs / bars and good food are an essential part of travel. I like to find places with a unique setting, views and or a good vibe, that is authentic to the area. Plettenberg Bay has a vibrant food scene with a variety of restaurants, cafes and wine estates where you can sample delicious local cuisine and wines. Zinzi’s (Tsala), Barrington’s, Cornuti Stella Luna, The Restaurant & Sandbar (The Plettenberg) and The Lookout Deck are some of my favs. I’ve heard Emily Moon has a great bar and that Enrico’s, in Keurbooms are great too.

Shopping
Watch that credit card as you will be tempted! Exploring the town's boutiques, art galleries and craft markets you will find unique souvenirs and gifts to take home.

Scenic Drives
Take a drive in and around Plett. The Garden Route is one of the most scenic routes in the world and Plett has picturesque coastal towns and landscapes within its surrounds.

Relaxation and Wellness
Plett is a popular destination for wellness retreats, spas and yoga centers where you can unwind, rejuvenate and connect with nature in a tranquil setting. I’ve not immersed myself in this aspect but believe that there are some special offerings, in and around town.

Accommodation
Plett offers a great range of places to rest your head at night. From world class luxury destinations to affordable family stays. If you’ve been following me you will know that I’ve worked in the luxury hospitality space, for 18 years and have had the privilege of experiencing the best of the best. At the same time, my passion, being small towns, means that I love finding hidden gems, many of them affordable. Whilst pondering on the price some of our most exclusive hotels and lodges, I implore you to consider how many people they employ and the standards that they maintain. More so, many of these hospitality offerings are very involved in upliftment projects, so much so that one is astounded to learn of the depth of these efforts. I plan on sharing more about that very soon, on The Safari Guys FB page.

Tsala Treetop Lodge, Hunters Country House, The Plettenberg Hotel and Walkers Beach are some of the more exclusive offerings whilst Beacon Isle is a South African family favourite. The Bungalow and Old Rectory have excellent locations whilst Barrington’s and The Robberg Beach Lodge offer accommodation at competitive pricing … it’s worth considering a low season visit, should you wish to get more for less spend.
These are just a few of the many ingredients that make Plettenberg Bay a delicious destination.

Important note
As a surfer (not a talented one) and a person who loves swimming, I know that the ocean is home to great joys and great dangers. Many of us will know of the tragic shark attacks that occurred over the past few years, in Plett. Action has been taken and I believe there are spotters and drones employed to keep bathers safe. Look at the top of the Beacon Island Hotel, next time you’re in town.

As always, please feel free to correct any errors that I may have made, above, or add more details. The reasons that I take the time to share this information is because I’m passionate about travel, it’s my industry and mostly because I want to spread good news about our country. We are a land full of natural beauty and even more so, a country full of beautiful souls … never forget that and don’t feel afraid to shout about our good news. A new reason, for me sharing, is that some have commented that they cannot travel, for various reasons. Health, age, live far away, finances etc … this is also written for the armchair travellers 🇿🇦🩵🇿🇦

I’ll include the below text, on all of my Cape 2 Kenton posts, for context:
Visiting Small Town South Africa goes hand in hand with road tripping, you can’t have one without the other and most of us, who love dorpies, love a great road trip too!

I recently embarked on a 3000km journey throughout large sections of the Weatern & Eastern Cape … my son Cole, was my wingman & I’m looking forward to sharing that Journey with you, starting today.

Some background
How is it that I get to gallivant so frequently? I am involved in both the print publication industry (Embassy Direct is a diplomatic publication) and the luxury travel market (The Safari Guys). My role in each often entails travelling to many of Southerm Africa’s finest lodges and most sought after destinations. Whilst I love what I do, all who know me well, know that my passion is small town South Africa & road tripping our beautiful country 🇿🇦

Luxury Lodges & Hotels
From time to time people express their shock at the rates that some of our most exclusive hotels and lodges command but I’d like to remind all that many of these properties are amongst the world’s best! South Africa is a country that desperately needs to create more jobs and the hospitality industry is a place where a good attitude and friendly disposition can get one employed. The luxury travel industry is a major employer, in our country. I mention this to avoid getting into negative debates related to one of our lands best news stories - these lodges attract folks from around the world. My wish is to shine more light on this good news, to create a better understanding of the industry and of course, to encourage not only South Africans but internationals, to visit our Dorpies!!!!

Back to my recent journey. It’s my firm belief that one of the very best road trips one can embark on, in SA, is from Cape Town to Kenton on Sea … as such we (The Safari Guys) run itineraries called ‘Cape 2 Kenton’ on the route and one of the reasons for my trip was to look at new lodges / hotels, along the way
Below is a breakdown of what I will be sharing over the next few weeks. If you add all the kilometres together you’ll get about 2500km but will exploration’s around each stop, I came in at 3000km!

Trip Overview
Approximate distances and times, without stops, of which I try to make as many as possible.

Cannon Rocks - Plettenberg Bay
360km / 4 hours
Walkers Beach & The Bungalow

Plettenberg Bay - Wilderness
81km
The Old Post Office Lodge

Wilderness - Franschhoek (including Hoekwil)
425km
La Fontaine

Franschhoek - Camps Bay
81km
POD Camps Bay

Camps Bay - Durbanville
35km
Protea Hotel

Durbanville - West Coast National Park (via Darling)
100km
Kraalbaai Houseboats

West Coast National Park - Langebaan
40km
The Farmhouse Hotel

Langebaan - Cape Town
140km
The One & Only Cape Town and The Victoria & Alfred Hotel

Cape Town - Hermanus (via Clarence Drive)
121km
The Marine Hermanus & One Marine Drive

Hermanus - Arniston (via Elim)
121km
Arniston Spa Hotel

Arniston - Van Wyksdorp
250km
Watermill Farm Cottages

Van Wyksdorp - Cradock
600km
Die Tuishuise and Victoria Manor Cradock

Cradock - Cannon Rocks (via Bedford)
245km
This first picture I’m sharing is of the scene that bid us farewell, when leaving our home village, of Cannon Rocks, in the Eastern Cape.

Look out for the next instalment, between my other posts

by Ron Mackenzie, our Chief Wandering Officer

Experience Walkers Beach for less this winter season, with rates from R2,691 per room per night.
On top of that, you can book for 3 nights and get a complimentary 4th night!

Contact [email protected] for more information.

22/05/2024

What is your very favourite animal to see, when on safari?

10/05/2024

A reminder about Wine in the Wilderness, with updated pics … our Chief Wandering Officer will be attending and hopefully gets to meet some of you there too

Join Samara Private Game Reserve for a Cheetahs and Shiraz weekend!

Spend 2 nights at Karoo Lodge at the Samara Karoo Reserve, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape

Enjoy a Friday night wine tasting and pairing dinner hosted by our celebrated wine-maker partner.

Saturday will be wine tasting at the Graff – Reinet Stoep Tasting festival.

On Sunday you’ll partake in a wilderness breakfast picnic at Samara.

You’ll also get to experience Game
drives and Cheetah tracking.

R6550 per person per night. Optional 3rd night at a 50% discount

Valid

17 to 19 May – Featuring DeWaldt Heyns of Dewaldt Heyns Family Wines
or
24 to 26 May – featuring Jean-Claude Martin of Creation Wines

[email protected], +27 (0)49 940 1111, www.samara.co.za

Alternatively reach out to The Safari Guys res team & we’ll help you to plan your road trip & Samara stay

Sue [email protected]
Nicole [email protected]

04/05/2024

Wine in the Wilderness

Join Samara Private Game Reserve for a Cheetahs and Shiraz weekend!

Spend 2 nights at Karoo Lodge at the Samara Karoo Reserve, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape

Enjoy a Friday night wine tasting and pairing dinner hosted by our celebrated wine-make partner.

Saturday will be wine tasting at the Graff – Reinet Stoep Tasting festival.

On Sunday you’ll partake in a wilderness breakfast picnic at Samara.

You’ll also get to experience Game
drives and Cheetah tracking.

R6550 per person per night. Optional 3rd night at a 50% discount

Valid

17 to 19 May – Featuring DeWaldt Heyns of Dewaldt Heyns Family Wines
or
24 to 26 May – featuring Jean-Claude Martin of Creation Wines

[email protected], +27 (0)49 940 1111, www.samara.co.za

Alternatively reach out to The Safari Guys res team & we’ll help you to plan your road trip & Samara stay

Sue [email protected]
Nicole [email protected]

28/03/2024

A stay at is one that will remain with you forever. Due to its location in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the reserve offers abundant wildlife, fauna and flora exclusive to the area and unforgettable encounters with nature 🍃

Contact [email protected] today to book your stay!

12/03/2024

📍 Madikwe Safari Lodge

Experience Kopano, where 'small gathering' isn't just a term, it's an intimate retreat reminiscent of a traditional homestead. With only four Suites, this exclusive destination offers the flexibility to book individual Suites or reserve the entire lodge for an unforgettable safari adventure with family or friends, a romantic honeymoon, or a solo exploration. Enjoy the lodge's main living spaces – from the dining area to the fireplace lounge with a library, the generously furnished deck, and the boma raised above the bush – all while soaking in splendid views over the savannah. Kopano: where every moment is tailored to you 🐘

Contact [email protected] today to book your stay!

06/03/2024

📍 Madikwe Safari Lodge

Welcome to Dithaba, where 'mountain' isn't just a word, it's an experience. With only four suites strategically positioned to amplify the glorious sense of space and privacy amidst the reserve, each suite serves as a retreat for couples or solo travelers. Alternatively, when combined, they create an exclusive home base for multigenerational families or friend groups on safari. Regardless, the main lodge area serves as a perfect gathering spot for both new and old friends, complete with rounds of sundowners on the Star Deck and festive bush dinners around the boma fire. Discover serenity and camaraderie at Dithaba ⛰️

Contact [email protected] today to book your stay!

29/02/2024

📍Madikwe Safari Lodge

Introducing Lelapa, where ‘family’ isn’t just a word, it’s a feeling. This haven seamlessly blends luxury with freedom, ensuring every moment is treasured. Guests can gather in the open-plan lodge, while the little ones immerse themselves in endless fun at Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club. With 12 spacious Suites, including four Family Suites, sociable couples and lively families alike find their perfect retreat 🦁

Contact [email protected] today to book your stay!

23/02/2024

Step back in time and experience the charm of the Seal Point Lighthouse! ⚓

Since 1878, this iconic landmark has stood tall, guiding ships through the tempestuous waters of Algoa Bay. Now, you can immerse yourself in history with a stay in one of its two wings – literally sleeping in the heart of the lighthouse itself.

Indulge in vintage ambiance and tantalise your taste buds at Nevermind restaurant nearby 🍽️

Contact us on [email protected] for more information or to book your stay.

📸: Ron Mackenzie

Seal Point Lighthouse

22/02/2024

Embrace the boundless beauty of Africa at Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge!

With vast landscapes as far as the eye can see, each suite is a sanctuary of luxury and immersion in the wild. From private plunge pools to sweeping views, every moment here is an invitation to indulge in nature's grandeur 🦓

Contact us on [email protected] for more information or to book your stay.

Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge

20/02/2024

Embark on a journey to the captivating Gorah Elephant Camp 🐘

Nestled in the Eastern Cape bush, it has one of our favourite watering holes, where every moment is filled with magic ✨

Have you visited Gorah before? Let us know below!



📸

14/02/2024

Escape to luxury in the heart of the Eastern Cape's African veld at Sindile, Shamwari's newest tented camp.

Nestled amidst the wilderness, each of their nine free-standing tents offers magical views of the surrounding bush and the serene Bushman's River plains 🦁

The intimate design ensures minimal impact on the environment, allowing you to indulge in nature's beauty without compromise.

Join them for world class dining experiences by the fire pit, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Big 5.

Contact us on [email protected] for more information or to book your stay.

Shamwari Private Game Reserve

25/12/2023

Warm Christmas wishes to our clients who celebrate, courtesy of the Safari Guys. May your festivities be wild and wonderful! 🥂

📷 Hailey Pope Photography

19/12/2023

Trivia Tuesday 🔍

Image 1:
Leopard cubs typically separate from their mothers at around 18 to 24 months, venturing into independence. Remarkably, during this period, they learn essential hunting skills and survival tactics. Unlike some animals, leopards don't form long-term social bonds, embracing a solitary lifestyle once they part ways with their maternal companions.

Image 2:
Golden orb-web spiders, members of the Nephila genus, weave stunning webs that glisten like spun gold in sunlight. With females significantly larger than males, these arachnids craft colossal, intricate webs, exhibiting remarkable strength and durability. Their silk, among the toughest known, contributes to the marvel of their web-spinning prowess.

Image 3:
Baby giraffes, called calves, enter the world with a leap—falling about 1.8 meters (6 feet) during birth! Within hours, they master standing and, guided by instinct, start nibbling on leaves. Sporting unique spotted coats, these long-necked youngsters grow swiftly, adding nearly an inch to their height daily in their first weeks.

📷 Hailey Pope Photography

16/12/2023

Kirkman’s Camp offers an enchanting family safari experience. Amidst Sabi Sand Game Reserve, our kids' program ensures young adventurers engage with wildlife, learn, and explore in a safe and fun environment. While parents enjoy the game drives, kids embark on educational adventures, creating lifelong memories in the heart of the African wilderness.👨‍👨‍👧‍👧

Ready to plan the ideal family getaway? Contact us at [email protected] or explore our website for details. Let us tailor the perfect safari experience for you and your family. 🐝

📷Kirkman's Kamp

15/12/2023

Welcome to Tswalu Trakuni Homestead, an epitome of luxury for your Luxe Lodge Friday indulgence. Nestled in the heart of the Kalahari, this exclusive retreat offers opulent comfort and unparalleled serenity. Immerse yourself in the lavish surroundings and elevate your Friday with an extraordinary blend of sophistication and tranquility. 🍀

Ready to embark on an unforgettable safari at Tswalu Tarkuni? Immerse yourself in the distinctive safari experience and indulge in its myriad offerings. For bookings and more details, contact us at [email protected] or explore our website. Let us craft the ideal getaway tailored just for you.🐾

📷 Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

14/12/2023

Introducing Chef Wade, a culinary maestro weaving magic with his traditional Bobotie. With a heritage-rich recipe, each aromatic layer of spiced minced meat, baked to perfection, tells a story of South African culinary tradition. Wade invites you to savor the warmth and history in every delectable bite. 🥘

To savor the essence of this South African delight, contact us at [email protected] or explore our website. Let us curate the ideal safari getaway, brimming with authentic African flavors, ensuring your journey is a delectable fusion of adventure and culinary delight. 🥄

📷 The PortsWood Hotel

About Chef Wade Kearns I trained at the North link Hotel School Panorama Campus for three years, of which two years were adiploma in professional cookery and one year an advanced patisserie diploma. During this course ofstudies I had an 18-month in-service training with six months spent at Asara Win...

13/12/2023

Welcome to Warrior Wednesday! Today, we showcase the powerhouse Anne Scott from One & Only Cape Town. As the driving force behind One & Only operations, Anne's dynamism is unmatched. For a deeper dive into Anne's journey as a GM, explore our website and unravel the fascinating chapters of her experiences.📚

📷 One&Only Cape Town

Aged 8, I went out for lunch in a hotel. My family were being hosted by another family. I was the youngest at the table and no one was paying any attention to me. I remember feeling very grown-up in this fancy hotel restaurant, but because I was little, my feet didn’t touch the floor and I remembe...

12/12/2023

Check out our status for a chance to challenge your knowledge with an engaging Trivia Tuesday ❓

Image 1:
Meet the Southern Tree Agama, a lizard with a fashion-forward approach. Males boast a vibrant mix of blues, reds, and oranges during courtship, earning them the title of "Rainbow Lizard." Masters of climbing, they gracefully navigate trees. In a display of versatility, they can change color to regulate body temperature and emotions.🦎

Image 2:

The Little Bee Eater, a petite avian gem, dazzles with its emerald plumage and aerial acrobatics. With a menu dominated by bees and other flying insects, it skillfully catches prey mid-flight. Living in colorful harmony, these sociable birds often form colonies, creating a lively spectacle against the African skies. 🐝

Image 3:
The Yellow-billed Oxpecker, a feathered companion to African mammals, earns its keep as a diligent grooming assistant. With a menu of ticks and parasites, it forms symbiotic relationships with buffalo, rhinos, and other large grazers. The bird's distinctive yellow beak is both a tool for hygiene and a symbol of ecological collaboration. 🐦

📷 Hailey Pope Photography

10/12/2023

Embrace tranquility at Tintswalo At Boulders for a Serene Sunday escape. Nestled in blissful Simon's Town, where their sanctuary invites you to unwind in luxury. Immerse yourself in relaxation, scenic views, and exquisite hospitality. Discover the epitome of serenity. 🐧

Ready to enhance your ideal safari adventure with this bucket list experience? Contact us at [email protected] or explore our website for more details. Let us tailor the perfect safari experience for you. 🌱

📷 Tintswalo at Boulders

09/12/2023

At Lukimbi Safari Lodge, children embark on enchanting safaris, unlocking the mysteries of the African bush. Guided by expert rangers, young explorers encounter rhinos, elephants, and more, fostering a lifelong love for wildlife. Tailored activities, from crafting Gwarrie Tree toothbrushes to joyful moments at the kiddie pool, create unforgettable family adventures. 👨‍👧

For your ideal family safari retreat with Lukimbi, contact [email protected] or explore our website. Allow us to tailor the perfect safari vacation for you and your family. 🪶

📷Lukimbi Safari Lodge

08/12/2023

Nestled along the N’wanetsi riverbank, Singita Lebombo Villa seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, providing an expansive and uplifting experience. Accommodating eight guests in two two-bedroom suites, each with a private pool, the villa's organic design fosters a profound connection to nature. Sleep under the stars on your deck for a tranquil, nature-immersed experience. 🐘

Interested in a unique, nature-inspired villa experience? Visit our website or contact [email protected] to book your unforgettable safari holiday in the heart of the African bush.🌵

📷 Singita

07/12/2023

Meet Chef Apex, a culinary virtuoso on a flavorful odyssey. His Living Journey Salad is a symphony of vibrant ingredients, each telling a tale of resilience and growth. From the crisp resilience of lettuce to the tender evolution of Kalamata olives, every bite narrates a story of life's savory journey on a plate.🍽

To savor these lively flavors, connect with us at [email protected]. Allow us to tailor the ideal safari adventure for you, ensuring you indulge in the full spectrum of these vibrant tastes. 🫑

📷

Chef Apex shares his Living Journey Salad Recipe so that you may enjoy the taste of luxury from the comfort of your own home!

06/12/2023

Welcome to Warrior Wednesday! Meet Mike Vroom, the dynamic Executive Director in Africa for Newmark Hotels & Reserves. Discover the leadership and passion that drive his role in shaping extraordinary hospitality experiences. Get inspired by Mike's journey at the forefront of the hospitality industry.

To learn more about Mike and his odyssey in the hospitality industry, take a moment to peruse the article on our website✏️

📷

I was privilege growing up to have travelled extensively and was always amazed at the hidden doors, that as guest you couldn’t access in these hotels. I was also amazed that they staff somehow always knew who we were…..as a kid, this was like magic. My fascination grew and hospitality has been a...

05/12/2023

Check out our status for a chance to challenge your knowledge with an engaging Trivia Tuesday 🤓

Image 1:
Southern Ground Hornbills, the charismatic giants of the avian world, boast striking red facial wattles and a booming call audible for miles. These communal birds form tight-knit family groups, with older siblings assisting in chick rearing. Masters of insect hunting, they play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance in Africa's savannas. 🦅

Image 2:
South Africa's chameleons are nature's color-changing artists, using specialized cells to blend into surroundings and communicate. With independently rotating eyes, they possess a 360-degree view, spotting prey and predators alike. These unique reptiles have projectile tongues, reaching prey in a split second, showcasing agility in the vibrant tapestry of South African ecosystems.🦎

Image 3:
Rhinos, magnificent giants, roam Earth with prehistoric grace. Despite their hefty appearance, they can reach surprising speeds up to 50 kph (30 mph). Their iconic horns are not just weapons but composed of keratin, like human hair. Poaching threats persist, highlighting the urgent need for conservation to safeguard these ancient marvels. 🦏

📷

05/12/2023

On World Volunteer Day, we extend heartfelt gratitude to those dedicating time, effort, and support to wildlife preservation and conservation. Their commitment ensures a sustainable future for our planet. Join us in appreciating these unsung heroes who tirelessly contribute to the well-being of our environment and its diverse inhabitants. 🌍

📷
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

04/12/2023

Escape to tranquility at Vergenoegd Low Boutique Hotel & Spa, where luxury meets serenity. Indulge in the ultimate Wellness Monday experience as their world-class spa pampers your senses. Unwind in opulent surroundings, embrace rejuvenation, and elevate your senses for a perfect start to the week. Pure bliss awaits. 💆‍♂️

For those seeking a blissful retreat, connect with us at [email protected]. Allow us to curate the ideal escape for you—a getaway designed for relaxation and self-care, nurturing both body and soul. Let us tailor the perfect break to rejuvenate your senses. 🌿

📷Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate

04/12/2023

Wildlife Conservation Day, observed annually, rallies global efforts to safeguard Earth's biodiversity. A crucial reminder to combat habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, it inspires collective action. By raising awareness and fostering conservation initiatives, this day champions the delicate balance between humanity and the rich tapestry of life on our planet. 🌍

When you book your safari vacations, you actively support the protection of animals and their habitats. A percentage of your lodge fees is allocated to conservation efforts, dedicated to ensuring the survival of parks and their inhabitants. 🍃

To book your perfect safari escape and contribute to the well-being of animals and conservation areas, contact us at [email protected] or explore our website for further details. 🖋