When I think of Botswana I think of raw, untamed, Africa… areas so remote that to reach them by vehicle would take days and wildlife so wild that text books regularly need updating.  I also think of the Okavango, the world’s largest inland delta, an amazing phenomenon where the Okavango River simply drains away into the vast sands of the Kalahari creating a glittering water wilderness teeming with big game and resplendent birdlife.  Surely there can be no finer wilderness destination in Africa?

The Okavango Delta usually receives two major influxes of water each year, the first from localised summer rain and the second with the arrival of the flood waters from the highlands of Angola in May or June.  Exceptional rains in March have meant a higher than normal water-table creating great anticipation for the season ahead.  When the flood waters arrive in a few months time they should ride on top of the existing water resulting in an exceptionally good flood this year. 

So what does all this mean to the visitor?  Well, the delta experience is all about a water wilderness and the more water the better.  Where dry pans once existed expect lush lagoons fringed by bright green grass, expect treed islands decorated with colourful birdlife and clear blue skies reflected in a shimmering water wonderland, expect boat trips, being poled through the individual channels of the delta in a mokoro (traditional dug out canoe) and big game - plenty of big game.  Expect the glittering jewel of Africa at its very best!

Contact info@hiddenvintage.com for a tailor-made Botswana itinerary or see The Jewel of Africa for a sample itinerary.

For those of you who have already enjoyed the exceptional hospitality offered by Hunters Country House, Tsala Treetop Lodge or Gorah Elephant Camp, we have some exciting news:  Hunters Hotels have recently opened a second lodge in a massive 23,000 hectare private concession a mere three and a half hours drive (or a short flight) from Johannesburg.  Marataba is located in the heart of Limpopo’s Marakele National Park, a malaria free wilderness encompassing vast plains, dense bushveld, winding rivers, deep gorges and majestic mountains – a place of rare scenic beauty and a sanctuary for Africa’s Big Five as well as a multitude of other animals and birds. 

Built of stone and glass Marataba’s main lodge was inspired by the discovery of primeval ruins and embraces both the contemporary and the ancient in an exciting union of innovative architecture, design and technology.  The 15 exotic tented suites are an intriguing mix of canvas, timber and stone, exquisitely furnished and decorated, and completed with en suite stone bathrooms, dressing rooms, ceiling fans, in house communications and private decks overlooking the sweeping plains and meandering river below.  Providing opulent comfort between exhilarating game drives and fine gourmet dining, Marataba takes African safari to a new level.

Special Introductory Offer:  R1,590 / person sharing / night  (€210) 
Save:  R360 / person / night (€47)

The Kingdon of Heaven
Take a step into the Africa of your dreams and immerse yourself in the amazing diversity that is Zululand:  the Drakensberg Mountains, the proud Zulu nation, the St Lucia wetland-wilderness unspoilt beaches on the warm Indian Ocean and a private ‘Big 5’ game reserve.   Character filled 4 & 5 star lodge accommodation and 14 days car hire.

R19,995 / person sharing (€2,630) 
Save: R4,910 / person sharing (€645)

 Wild & Scenic Kruger
Challenge your sense of adventure on this 10 night, luxury, safari special.  Relax at Jatinga Country Lodge in the scenic Panorama Route, track big game in open vehicles and on foot from Honeyguide tented safari camp before discovering the very essence of a safari in The Outpost - one of Africa’s most tantalising wilderness lodges in the far reaches of northern Kruger.  End your adventure with a night back in Johannesburg at the eclectic 10 Bompas Hotel.

R13,325 / person sharing (€ 1,755)
Save:  R6,135 / person sharing (€ 810)

The Gems of the Cape  - 4 Star
Discover the attractions of one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations without the maddening crowds and at a fraction of the usual cost.   Enjoy the autumnal charms of Cape Town, the Winelands of Stellenbosch, the scenic Garden Route and a malaria free safari staying in character filled 4 star accommodation and an all inclusive, ‘Big 5’ private game reserve with 14 days car hire.

R9,525 / person sharing (€1,255)
Save: R1,910 / person sharing (€250)

 The Elegant Cape  - 5 Star
The only feeling that’s better than being treated like royalty is knowing that you haven’t had to pay an arm and a leg for it.  Enjoy a relaxing 2 week holiday in the Cape, the Winelands, the Garden Route and on safari and experience for yourself why so many people flock to South Africa and rave about its awesome selection of world standard accommodation. 

R12,640 / person sharing (€1,665)
Save R3,000 / person sharing (€395)

 Namibia on a Shoe String
Looking for a once in a life time holiday but on a shoe string budget?  Take advantage of this exceptional value 13 day self-drive holiday including car hire, a safari in Etosha, rugged Damaraland and the famous, ochre-red dunes of Sossusvlei.  Namibia truly is a country to feed your soul and enliven your senses. 

R6,960 / person sharing (€ 915)

Kruger Fly In Safari Special
Short on time?  Take advantage of this great value, 5 night, fly-in safari special to Kruger.   Includes 1 night 10 Bompas Hotel (B&B)Johannesburg, 2 nights Honeyguide tented camp (FI), Manyeleti Private Game Reserve, 2 nights The Outpost (FI), Kruger Park, and all air transfers.

R13,625 / person sharing  (€ 1,790)
Save R2,475 / person sharing (€325)

 3 Nights for the Price of 2…
Create your own ‘special offer’ itinerary from the wide selection of up to date property specific offers featured on our website.

 Note:  Euro prices subject to exchange rate fluctuations.

 
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