Featured Places

Marataba Safari Lodge

Marakele National Park

Days 1 - 4: Marakele National Park

Marataba Safari Lodge Location Map

Marataba Safari Lodge is situated in a Big 5 malaria-free 23,000 hectare private concession at the foothills of the Waterberg Mountains which forms part of the Marakele National Park, just 3.5 hours drive from Johannesburg. The Marakele National Park is a haven for an impressive variety of wildlife, and contrasting majestic mountain landscapes, grass-clad hills and deep valleys characterise this spectacular area.

All the large game species from elephant and rhino to the big cats, as well as an amazing variety of birds including the largest colony of endangered Cape vultures in the world (more than 800 breeding pairs) have settled here and may be seen on your daily morning and afternoon game drives. The Marataba rangers have an intricate knowledge of the bush and its wildlife, and each open game viewing vehicle carries just 6 guests.

Bush walks after breakfast engage all your senses as your guide introduces you to the smaller creatures and tells you about the various plants and trees, many with fascinating medicinal properties and traditional uses. You can also enjoy a morning or sunset boat cruise on the Miss Mara along the Matlabas River, providing plenty of game-viewing opportunities as the animals come to the water to drink and forage.

The 15 canvas-and-stone tented suites are exquisitely furnished and decorated with a contemporary twist. Each suite has its own private deck overlooking the sweeping plains and meandering river below. A free-standing stone bath is the main feature of the bathroom, while indoor and outdoor showers take full advantage of the dramatic scenery of the Waterberg Mountains. Families with children under 12 years of age can choose a Family Suite, which includes a separate bedroom and bathroom.

There is also the Thabametsi Treehouse (additional surcharge and weather dependent) which offers complete privacy. You’ll arrive just before sunset and the coolness of the approaching evening brings animals into the open. A gourmet picnic can be enjoyed at your table on the deck, from where you have front row seats to the wildest theatre. Then curl up in the four-poster bed under a blanket of stars and a warm cosy duvet, and go to sleep with the sounds of the African bush surrounding you.

Example Details For Marataba Safari Lodge

Nights: 4 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Luxury Tented Suite
Includes: All meals; tea/coffee; all beverages (including soft drinks, beers, spirits and wines); 2 daily game drives with FGASA qualified ranger; game drive refreshments and snacks; the Marakele NP entrance/gate fee; the Marakele Guest Conservation Contribution; and transfers between Marataba Safari Lodge and Marataba Mountain Lodge are included.

Children under 16 years are not permitted on bush walks or the Miss Mara water safaris. Guests over 60 years wanting to do a bush walk must present a medical certificate of good health.

Please Note: As the animals are wild, it is not possible to guarantee what you will see during your safari.

 
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Marataba Safari Lodge Location.

Directions

Please DO NOT follow your GPS to Marataba. Many of the prescribed roads are not navigable in a normal vehicle. Following GPS co-ordinates can result in getting lost in the middle of the bush, or unnecessary delays.

From Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport: Depart OR Tambo following the airport exit signs (R21 and R24). Approximately 200m thereafter, the road forks. Take the right fork towards R21 N Pretoria/R24 Johannesburg. The road immediately turns sharply to the right. Get into the left lane and follow the signs to R21 N Pretoria as you exit the airport.

After exiting the airport, get into the left lane and follow the R21 N Kempton Park/Pretoria signs. After 300m, take the left off-ramp, following the R21N Kempton Park/Pretoria signs. Once on the R21N drive for 36.3 km.

You will see signs indicating exit 134 (N1 Noord, Pretoria/Polokwane/Johannesburg). Take the 134 exit. Immediately thereafter, the road forks. Take the right fork towards N1 North-Polokwane. Continue on the NI North-Polokwane passing through 2 toll gates (cash required).

Take off-ramp to Bela-Bela / Warmbaths (R516). Once in Bela-Bela, turn right at the first set of traffic lights into Marx Street (Waterfront Shopping Centre ahead of you). Continue across one intersection with traffic lights (Engen and Total petrol stations on either side) until you reach a T-junction. The Elephant Spring Hotels is ahead of you. Turn left into Sutter Road (Thabazimbi signpost ahead). At the T-junction, turn right into Ritchie Road. From here on, follow the signs to Thabazimbi (R516).

In Thabazimbi, turn left at third stop street towards Lephalale/Sentrum (at the Total petrol station) onto the R510. Travel for 32 km, and turn right to Lephalale (stay on the R510). Drive 11 km and turn right at the Marataba Safari Lodge sign post. Travel 8 km along the gravel road. The Marataba gate is on your left hand side.

Once inside the gate, follow the signs to the lodge through the reserve.  Do not get out of your car until you reach the lodge. You may see some wildlife on your way - if you do, slow down and maintain a good distance. Do not drive off-road in any circumstances.

Please Note: The gate opens at 07:00 and closes at 17:00. Please advise your consultant at Travel Butlers if you will be arriving outside of these times so that the necessary arrangements can be made.

Check In / Check Out

Rooms may be occupied from 13:00 on the day of arrival and must please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.

General Information For Guests

Children of any age are welcome. Children under 6 are not permitted on game drives but special kiddies game drives for 3-5 year olds are available after breakfast.

Each Tented Suite is approximately 45 square meters and has a private deck, a kingsize bed (convertible to twin beds on request), air conditioning, open-plan en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, in-room safe, mini bar, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer and a range of deluxe amenities.

The main lodge facilities include a large lounge with a fireplace, swimming pool with pool loungers, hammocks in the trees, complimentary Wi-Fi access in the main lodge area, a curio shop, and a well stocked library and bar.

Each game viewing vehicle carries 6 guests only.

Bush walks go out after breakfast and last between 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on guests' fitness levels.

A laundry service is available (additional cost).

Spa treatments (additional cost) are offered in the privacy of guests' suites by expert therapists.

The Boutique offers a range of African-produced and high-end clothing, accessories, art and momentos, as well as everyday 'necessities'.

The Thabametsi Treehouse hideout is solar powered and built over 2 levels, and includes a main bedroom, full walk in double shower, lounge, and a viewing deck. It has been securely constructed above the ground, where the animals remain at a safe and comfortable distance. Your field guide will provide a full orientation before departing, but is always on call via radio until you are collected the next morning after sunrise and a good breakfast. Your suite back at the lodge is still available just in case you wish to return at any time.

Your rate includes a Guest Conservation Contribution, which goes towards protecting the animals and their environment.

Please be advised that the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), terrestrial UAVs, as well as aerial UAVs (or drones) is prohibited for the following reasons:-

1. The lodge is committed to ensuring that all guests and wildlife are not disturbed, where practically possible, by artificial mechanisms of any kind;

2. Security concerns around rhino poaching;

3. The use of recreational drones is prohibited in terms of Section101 of SA Civil Aviation Regulations 2015.

This policy includes the lodge staff as well as professional photographers.


Bush Walks / Walking Safaris

Children under the age of 16 years are not permitted on bush walks in the reserve or the Miss Mara water safaris. Guests over 60 years old wishing to join a bush walk are required to have a letter or certificate from their doctor confirming they are in good health and are physically fit to do the walk. A bush walk can last a couple of hours and involve walking over uneven terrain that may contain dangerous wildlife in potentially high temperatures. Guests may need to move quickly and for a sustained period through rough bush terrain if instructed to do so by their guide.

Regardless of age or the provision of a doctors certificate, the final decision on whether a guest can join a bush walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.

Peermont D'oreale Grande Hotel

Johannesburg

Day 5: Johannesburg

Peermont D'oreale Grande Hotel Location Map

Discover untold luxury and regal comfort. The 5* Peermont D'oreale Grande hotel at Emperors Palace is conveniently located next to Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport.

The Emperors Palace resort offers a unique experience with a magnificent casino, dining to suit every palate, a cinema complex, exhilarating entertainment and theatre venues, and a retail concourse. With palatial buildings set in a display of gardens, fountains and statues, the experience is breathtaking. Richly cloaked surroundings such as marble floors, plush carpets, magnificent stained glass domes, highly decorated murals and frescos, sculptures, intricate mosaics and Roman columns and arches contribute to an atmosphere of intimacy, classical elegance and lavish opulence.

At the hotel itself, guests can dine at the elegant Aurelia's Restaurant, meet or relax in private conclaves of the reception area, absorb the gentle strains of the piano in the Aurelia's Lounge and Cocktail Bar, or sip on a cocktail while watching the African sunset from a lounger or cocktail bar in the manicured and terraced gardens.

The luxurious world-class Octavi's Sensorium Day Spa will indulge you beyond your expectations. This magnificent facility resembles the eclectic style and ambience of Ancient Rome, while providing state of the art facilities including the magnificent Roman Bath.

The hotel features 182 elegant rooms and suites all lavishly furnished in superior style. All rooms incorporate air-conditioning, multi-channel satellite TV, complimentary wireless internet access (Wi-Fi) and the convenience of 24-hour room service. For the discerning guest who seeks premier quality and elegance, the Club Superior Rooms are situated on the private Club Floor, which has a private lounge with complimentary refreshments and a Club Floor Services Manager who is willing to assist with a diverse bouquet of personalised services including early check in and late check out options, and 24 hour refreshment in rooms.

A complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport for all guests is available.

Example Details For Peermont D'oreale Grande Hotel

Nights: 1 Night
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Superior Room
Includes: Breakfast is included.
 
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Peermont D'oreale Grande Hotel Location.

Address

Peermont D'oreale Grande Hotel,64 Jones Road, Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport

Directions

From Johannesburg: Take the R24 towards the O.R. Tambo International Airport. At the airport, the road splits - keep to the left lane and: follow the R21 East Rand/Boksburg lane. Follow the road until you reach Griffiths Road off-ramp, turn left at the top of: the bridge. At the T-junction, turn left into Jones Road. Entrance to Emperors Palace is on your left.

From Pretoria: Take the R21 towards the O.R. Tambo International Airport. At the airport, the road splits - keep to the left lane and: follow the R21 East Rand/Boksburg lane. Follow the road until you reach Griffiths Road off-ramp, turn left at the top of: the bridge. At the T-junction, turn left into Jones Road. Entrance to Emperors Palace is on your left.

From Sandton/Northern Areas: Take the N3 towards Germiston. At Giloolly’s Interchange, take the R24 towards the O.R. Tambo International Airport.: At the airport, the road splits - keep to the left lane and follow the R21 East Rand/Boksburg lane. Follow the road until: you reach Griffiths Road off-ramp, turn left at the top of the bridge. At the T-junction, turn left into Jones Road.: Entrance to Emperors Palace is on your left.

Check In / Check Out

Rooms may be occupied from 15:00 on the day of arrival and must please be vacated by 10:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.

General Information For Guests

Children of any age are welcome.

Hotel facilities include an art gallery, a cocktail bar and lounge, Aurelia's Restaurant, Octavia's Sensorium Day Spa, a swimming pool with pool bar, a 24 hour gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi access.

The complimentary daily shuttle service between the hotel and the airport terminals operates on the hour every hour from 07:00 and 23:00. The shuttle vans are black with the Emperors Palace logo on the sides and the drivers wear a black Emperors Palace Uniform.

To take the shuttle from Terminal A:

Exit the building and turn left. Walk along the driveway until the pedestrian crossing and turn right across the driveway into the opposite building with covered parking above. Do not take the escalators but walk past them until you get to the Luxliner Bus bookings cubicle. Turn right at Luxliner and exit the building onto the passageway next to the Intercontinental Hotel. Turn right again and follow the passageway to the shuttle terminus behind the InterContinental Hotel. Wait here for the Emperors Palace bus.

To take the shuttle from Terminal B:

Exit the building and turn right. Walk along the driveway until the pedestrian crossing and turn left across the driveway into the opposite building with covered parking above. Do not take the escalators but walk past them until you get to the Luxliner Bus bookings cubicle. Turn right at Luxliner and exit the building onto the passageway next to the Intercontinental Hotel. Turn right again and follow the passageway to the shuttle terminus behind the InterContinental Hotel. Wait here for the Emperors Palace bus.

Santorini Mozambique

Vilanculos

Days 6 - 10: Vilanculos

Santorini Mozambique Location Map

Santorini Mozambique is nestled above the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay in Vilanculos, and offers unfurling views of the Bazaruto Archipelago islands and the curling mainland in the distance.

Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the Bazaruto Archipelago is a much-coveted travel destination in Mozambique. It is known for its glistening turquoise waters and some of the best scuba-diving in the world. As one of the largest marine reserves in the Indian Ocean, the archipelago supports over 2,000 species of fish, as well as dolphins, whales, turtles and sharks. It also holds the largest population of Dugong in Mozambique.

Santorini Mozambique is like a small Greek village in the heart of a raw African landscape – a magical combination consisting of 3 large villas, where there is no shortage of variety. Whether you're here for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there is something for everyone to enjoy and remember at Santorini. Being on the mainland, you will have the opportunity to experience everything the area has to offer - from spending a day out on the waters or exploring the colourful markets and local shops of Vilanculos town - the choices are endless.

The Main Villa consists of 5 individual suites, which all open out onto their own private patio with sun loungers and umbrella – the perfect space to take in the majestic view of this magical place. Whether you are drawn to the main guest lounge, TV room, sunset sala or pool courtyard, you’re encouraged to make yourself completely at home.

The Chapel at Santorini is an exclusive use, intimate villa created for the ultimate honeymoon experience or romantic getaway.  It is a short walk away from the Main Villa but far enough for complete privacy. The open-plan living space beneath the characteristic domed ceiling consists of a lounge, dining area and guest bar stocked daily with scrumptious snacks and assorted iced beverages. For small families or close friends, a second suite can be added to the villa's accommodation.

Villa da Praia is an exclusive beach villa and comprises of 3 stunning suites on different levels. Two suites have their own private patio and the 3rd has a manicured garden terrace and separate entrance.

Example Details For Santorini Mozambique

Nights: 5 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Banque Suite
Includes: All meals; all drinks (local beer, local wine, selected spirits, tea/coffee and water/soft drinks); return airport transfers; a guided tour of Vilanculos town; complimentary snorkelling trip with picnic lunch or sunset cruise with refreshments/canapes on one of Santorini's boats for bookings of 3 nights or more; free Wi-Fi in Santorini public areas and all suites; and a laundry service are included. PLEASE NOTE: Park fees will be charged for each boat trip into the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, per person per excursion and is payable upon departure.
 
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Santorini Mozambique Location.

Address

Santorini Mozambique,illa, Vilanculos

Check In / Check Out

Rooms may normally be occupied from 14:00 on the day of arrival, and must normally please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.

General Information For Guests

Children of any age are welcome.

The Main Villa suites (Santa Carolina, Banque, Magaruque, Benguerra and Bazaruto) all have private balconies with sea views, elegant en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and fans. The Santa Carolina suite also has a lounge and spacious veranda, along with a computer station.

The Main Villa guest areas include a TV lounge with flat screenTV, DSTV and DVD player with disc selection. There is also a Courtyard with a rim-flow swimming pool, sun loungers, outdoor shower, garden and  dining  area  with  pizza oven and BBQ.

The Chapel has both indoor and outdoor showers, lounge, dining room and kitchen. It also has its own private pool. The master suite has its own bathtub and toilet. The villa has a private chef and host.

All rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi, a hairdryer, IPod dock and a safe.

The Spa Na Colini offers a large of spa treatments and aromatherapy. It is open from 8am –5pm daily. Appointments for the spa can be made with our reception. Pre-booking is essential (additional cost).

The Pansy Shell is a gift shop just off the main villa offering a wide range of items and trinkets.

The activities room is geared for almost any pending adventure, for all ages and it’s all complimentary during your stay at Santorini. There are a number of kayaks, stand up paddle boards, sandboards, snorkelling gear and fishing gear available. There is also a gym in a bag for a quick workout session or yoga on the sunset patio.

Other activities available at an additional cost include sunset dhow cruises, Pansy Shell Island cruises, diving, charter yachts, scenic helicopter flights, horse riding and camel safaris.

A nanny service is available on request (additional cost).

A complimentary laundry service is included.

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