Safari Lodges Close to Moremi Game Reserve

    Safari Lodges Close to Moremi Game Reserve

    There are a few safari lodges close to Moremi Game Reserve, but none as impressive as the refreshing and inimitable Mankwe Tented Retreat. Situated a mere 50 km from North Gate and 55 km from South Gate, Mankwe is perfectly positioned to take advantage of all that the Moremi has to offer. The drive to the Moremi gate is also an adventure, one which usually leads to plenty of sightings. Can you imagine ticking off a few bird species before you’ve even entered the Moremi gate?

    Mankwe Aerials

    Mankwe Elephants

    Mankwe Waterhole

    Mankwe itself is located in prestigious territory where the wildlife roams freely throughout. The traverse encompasses a portion of the predator-rich Khwai River frontage, while surrounding the lodge is the most archetypal bushveld vegetation comprising blocks of mopane woodlands and open plains. There’s no denying that Mankwe offers its guests a wealth of opportunities to spot game in diverse ecosystems.

    The famed Khwai river is the overflow of the Okavango Delta and is bordered by the northern region of the Moremi Game Reserve. It’s the life source for wildlife streaming in from desert landscapes, while the terrain around the river Khwai is characterised by lagoons, islands, and grasslands. It is also part of the migratory bird route. Combining the Khwai with day trips into the Moremi, and explorations around the hallowed grounds at camp, will leave a lasting impression.

    Young Antelope at Mankwe

    Giraffe at Waterhole

    Little Bee Eater

    Most of the safari activities at Mankwe circulate around daily game drives and excursions into the bordering Moremi Game Reserve. Safari-goers can enjoy morning and afternoon games in the concession on days when they’re not out on day trips in the Moremi. In addition, the intrepid team at Mankwe take guests out night drives to find the nocturnal predators. Using a flashlight and expert tracking skills, the team are pretty successful at finding wildlife.

    Wildlife and birdlife to spot in the area includes, but is not limited to:

    • Cape buffalo
    • Lechwe
    • Hippo
    • Leopard
    • African wild dog
    • Lion
    • Sitatunga
    • Sable
    • Wattled cranes, storks, egrets, African jacanas, woodland birds, and a host of king fishers.
    • Pel’s fishing-owl, African fish eagle, vultures, falcons, and more.

    After a day spent exploring all that Botswana has to offer, guests can retire in absolute splendour to their wooden tented suite. Choose Mankwe Tented Retreat as your top choice of safari lodges close to Moremi Game Reserve.

     

    Combine a Kruger Walking Safari with a Lodge Stay

    Combine a Kruger Walking Safari with a Lodge Stay

    The 3-day Africa on Foot Wilderness Trail has grown in popularity since its inception a few years ago. Eager trailblazers have been hotfooting to Kruger to immerse themselves in the wild, while soaking up the rustic atmosphere of camp life. After 3 days of a mind blowing Kruger walking safari and soaking up the splendour of the Greater Balule on foot, it’s quite nice to finish off with a touch of luxury. Trails pairs perfectly with its luxury sister, Chacma Bush Camp. We recommend a 2-night stay at Chacma for some downtime after your rewarding Kruger bush walking experience. If you’re a self-driver, you will need to leave your car at Chacma anyway, so you might as well book in for a couple of nights.

    Chacma Bush Camp

    Charming Chacma is an intimate Big 5 safari lodge located in the Maseke Game Reserve in Greater Balule. The camp’s perimeter is a major drawcard for a wealth of wildlife because of the varied vegetation and abundant prey sources. Elephants, bushbuck, kudu and plains game are commonly spotted in these woodlands, and can be viewed from the comfort of the deck area surrounding the sparkling swimming pool.

    Right in front of camp is a waterhole frequented by elephants, kingfishers, and a plenty of other wildlife. Just behind the camp is a beautiful rocky outcrop where leopards have been spotted. The setting at Chacma is spectacular, and guests are often awed by the profusion of game on the camp’s surrounds. Unlike the walking safaris, Chacma’s activities are centred around two game drives a day that meander their way across undulating rocky terrain, unique to the Kruger.

    Buffalo Viewing from the Patio

    Chacma Waterhole Views

    Chacma Steenbok Verandah

    Chacma ElephantsAfrica on Foot Wilderness Trails

    Trails is the pinnacle of any Kruger walking safari, and encourages active trailblazers to truly immerse themselves in the wild. For 3 nights walkers can enjoy a comfortable camp set-up in a different location each night. The entire camp is set up for you prior to arrival. You have one job: to enjoy yourself and learn about the wild.

    Qualified and passionate guides take you on a journey following in the footsteps of the herbivorous mammals and the carnivorous species of the bushveld, while ensuring you learn about the smaller things beneath your foot. Morning walks usually take about 3-4 hours and then a lunch break. After eating and observing your surrounds, you’ll head out on an afternoon walk for 2-3 hours, and then retire to camp at +-15h00. Most evenings are spent sitting around a roaring campfire with a drink in hand, listening to the echoing sounds of honking hippos and distant lion roars. Nights are spent in the comfort of a classic safari-style dome tent with private facilities, and invigorating outdoor showers.

    Africa On Foot Walking Trails

    Greater Kruger Walking Trails

    Wilderness Walking Trails

    Wilderness Trails Camps River

    Africa on Foot Trails at Sunset

    Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails Walk

    Chobe Lion Pride Spotted at Mankwe Tented Retreat

    Chobe Lion Pride Spotted at Mankwe Tented Retreat

    A Chobe Lion Pride, called the Mababe Pride, has claimed territory in the southern stretches of the Chobe, and they’re well-known for their marauding antics within the NG41 private concession, which is approximately 6 kilometres from Mankwe Tented Retreat. This strong pride is the largest local pride in the Khwai and surrounding area, providing eager safari-goers with regular sightings for their predator logbook. Recently, camp manager Yolande spotted the Mababe Chobe Lion Pride around a local waterhole, seemingly relaxed and playful in their environment.

    Lions traverse wide territories that spill across a multitude of reserves and concessions. Lone males and coalitions of brothers strut around in search of prides to dominate, and cover a far wider distribution than their female counterparts. Lionesses tend to claim smaller territories that are rich with prey sources and potential den sites.

    elephant lions

    elephant lions waterhole

    lion cubs Botswana

    lion cubs Mankwe Tented Retreat

    lion pride Khwai

    lions roaring

    Chobe Lion Pride

    This strong and healthy Chobe lion pride was spotted rolling around on the “beach” area around a waterhole. The entire pride seemed quite habituated to the presence of the vehicle, and completely non-plussed. In this particular sighting, the burgeoning lion cubs decided to approach the wheels of the vehicle to investigate.

    The lion cubs were investigating, sniffing, and flopping around the vehicle. In the shrubbery around the waterhole, the mother lioness appeared to be on edge. With her guttural cough, she was contact calling her cubs who weren’t heeding to her calling. There was a lot going on around the waterhole!

    Yolande also mentioned that there were two males with the pride who’d recently made a buffalo kill. The pride was probably still in relaxation mode after their hefty feast. Mankwe Tented Retreat’s traverse has access to some of the prime predator viewing spots along the Khwai Riverfront.

    Botswana lions

    Chobe Lion Pride

    chobe national park lion cubs

    lion cub Chobe

    lion cubs Botswana

    lion cubs khwai okavango

    lion cubs mankwe

    lioness okavango delta

    mankwe lion cubs

    Mankwe Tented Camp lion cubs

    mottled lion cubs Botswana

    Choose Mboma For Your Okavango Delta Mobile Safari

    Choose Mboma For Your Okavango Delta Mobile Safari

    A Botswana mobile safari is a back-to-basics experience designed to showcase the wild from a unique, off-the-beaten track perspective. Days are spent exploring the wild with local guides, while evenings are spent relaxing around a campfire in remote regions away from where tourist-type safari goers frequent. The quintessential mobile safari is akin to glamping: tents are set-up for you, and you don’t have to lift a finger. A mobile safari in the Okavango Delta should be your first port of call when opting for a more adventurous safari experience. And you should choose Mboma Island Expeditions – if not for their awe-inspiring location, then for their simple sense of mobile safari luxury.

    Elephants Okavango Delta

    Mboma Island Expeditions Okavango

    Mboma Island Sunsets

    Mboma Island Trees

    Mboma Island Expeditions

    Mboma storks in the Delta

    Okavango Delta palms

    If you’ve followed us closely, you’re certainly no stranger to Mboma Island Expeditions. We’ve shared refreshing images of the cuisine, interiors, and friendly faces at this charming and quintessential Botswana mobile safari camp. But what we haven’t done is introduce you to their backyard, and how the team maximise the safari experience by offering an array of immersive activities.

    So, just WHERE is Mboma situated?  In a sliver of wilderness paradise in one of 3 remote camp sites on the tip of the game rich Moremi Game Reserve. The campsites are located on the floodplains of the meeting point of the Okavango Delta’s waters and the Moremi’s grassland terrain. The camp is flanked by swaying palm trees, and open sections of savannah leading down to reed-lined waterways. For landscape photography, this is the place to be. That iconic shot with the elephant in the foreground with tropical palms resting against blood orange skies? That can be photographed in Mboma’s backyard, along with plenty of other wonderful sightings.

    Botswana mobile safaris scenes

    Okavango Delta Mobile Safari Activities

    Mboma’s Okavango Delta mobile safari activities range from game drives to boating, and traditional mokoro. Each activity introduces adventurers to a new way of experiencing the wild, and offers abundant opportunities to spot game from unique angles. There are huge herds of elephants in the area, so it’s pretty common to spot giant jumbos around every corner. Birders can delight in knowing that this is the home of waders, kingfishers, and huge birds of prey. And yes – predators are rife in the area!

    Game drives are conducted in open-topped game viewers and led by knowledgeable and friendly guides. Drives take place in the Moremi Game Reserve where it’s highly probable that you’ll spot big cats. Most wildlife in the Moremi has become accustomed to the presence of game viewers, and don’t see them as a threat. Guests can enjoy up close and personal sightings of wildlife.

    When the water levels are high, Mboma uses motorised boats to explore the mosaic of papyrus-lined water channels and lagoons that make up the Okavango Delta. Boating is ideal for photographers and birders, as there is ample room to keep your equipment.

    Mboma game drives deltaMboma game viewingMboma Island Expeditions game drivesMboma Okavango DeltaBotswana mobile safari

    Okavango Delta Boating

    Okavango Delta Mobile Safari

    Another exciting activity is the traditional mokoro experience, one of the main highlights of any Okavango Delta safari. A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe that is used to navigate narrow channels of the Delta, and is controlled by a professional poler who will guide you through the waters. A mokoro excursion provides ample opportunity to see the smaller things like painted reed frogs, sitatunga, and malachite kingfishers.

    Mokoro mobile safaris

    Mokoro Okavango Delta mobile safaris

    Little Lion Cubs in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

    Little Lion Cubs in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

    A few years ago the Vuyela male lions made their presence known on the Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp traverse. These burgeoning beasts embodied the male lion stereotype and were looking for territory to claim. They entered at the right time. The pride dynamics in this section of the Klaserie were complicated, and at the time there seemed to be a gap for a powerful coalition to take over. The Vuyelas quickly seized the opportunity to make this portion of the Klaserie their stomping grounds. Their burly bodies, lustrous manes, confidence, and sheer power quickly caught the eye of three local lionesses, who are believed to be the Ross breakaways. To cut a long story short, they all mated and now we have lion cubs in the Klaserie sired by the Vuyela Kings.

    If you recall, Warick Wrede said this, “Vuyelwa/Vuyela means to come back and they are a lion pride of 9 individuals. The make-up of this pride is 5 males and 4 females. No one is sure of where these 5 males come from, but we think they came in from the Kruger National Park. The males range in age from 7 to about 9 years of age. These 5 males are very seldom seen walking together and generally, we see at the most 2 together.”

    Over the past two months, we’ve received regular lion updates from Warick Wrede and guides “on the ground”. Whether it’s a sighting of two Vuyelas, the females, or the entire pride, there now appears to be regular lion sightings in the Klaserie. One of the most recent and memorable sightings includes a report from Fabien who says he followed the 5 Vuyelas to Buffeldam, where there were the Ross breakaway females. A huge scuffle with a clan of hyenas ensued, giving onlookers quite the show.

    On 14th Jan, the first lion cub was spotted, and since then there have been a few more notable sightings. Because lion cubs have a high mortality rate in the wild, lionesses will ensure cubs remain relatively hidden until they are more mobile. So far, the cubs are faring well in the wild, and we expect to see more sightings of them in the coming months.

    Lion Cubs in the KlaserieAfrica on Foot Lion CubLittle Klaserie Lion CubVuyela Lion CubMale Vuyela

    African Retreats: Are Nambu and Kingly the Perfect Couple?

    African Retreats: Are Nambu and Kingly the Perfect Couple?

    Yes. Nambu and Kingly are the perfect couple!

    The next installment of our monthly African Retreats blog features two contrasting camps that would make the perfect couple if paired together for the ultimate Kruger safari experience. So vastly different in their architecture, but at the core, both these camps have a warm atmosphere, exceptional game viewing, and prioritize the needs of guests. Kingly Explorer Camp is a traditional bush camp offering rustic accommodation in private Meru-style tents with en-suite bathrooms, while Nambu Camp offers stylish safari-style bedrooms in thatched chalets. Combine a stay at Kingly for that safari lifestyle back-to-basics vibe, and finish off at Nambu for a stylish safari experience.

    Nambu Camp Balule

    Kingly Explorer Camp

    About Kingly Explorer Camp

    Kingly Explorer Camp is the quintessential Kruger bush camp that encapsulates the true heart and soul of the ancient explorer. Ideally located in a lesser-known, relatively unexplored section of the Kruger teeming with predators makes Kingly a destination worth exploring. Safari activities include daily game drives, and the option of joining a unique boat cruise on the might Olifants River. The boat cruise really is an unusual activity in the Kruger, and is a wonderful addition to the standard land-based safari experience.

    When you stay at Kingly, you’ll follow the footsteps of true adventurers from a bygone era where the focus is on wildlife and wild times. Although rustic, the team at Kingly understands the importance of creature comforts from home. Sturdy canvas Meru-style tents built on raised timber decking provide an adequate level of comfort and privacy for guests. An en suite bathroom complete with outdoor shower provides the perfect place to enjoy a completely invigorating outdoor experience.

    Kingly’s main area comprises a small splash pool overlooking a wildlife-rich waterhole frequented by elephants, a boma with firepit, and a small safari dining space. There’s also a viewing area that provides front-row seats to the thriving waterhole.

    To start your safari itinerary, we’d recommend 3 nights at Kingly Explorer Camp.

    Elephants at the Waterhole

    Kingly Boat Cruise Olifants River

    Bush Walk Along the River

    Lounge Area at Kingly

    Splash Pool at Kingly

    About Nambu Camp

    Nambu Camp is a simple yet luxury safari lodge located in the world-renown Balule Nature Reserve.  The name Nambu means ‘river’, and was named after the river that runs through the traverse. The camp has a total of 6 safari-style bedrooms, all of which have double, modern bathrooms and an outside seating area. Nambu is owner-run and managed, and has a relaxed atmosphere with fine attention to detail. Guests can expect natural, safari-style décor throughout, and elegant raised wooden pathways that wind their way through the camp and gardens.

    During the heat of the day, relax by the camp’s poolside or bird watch from the lodge’s vast viewing platform before a mid-day brunch up at the main camp. When it comes to cuisine, Nambu is right up there with the best of them. From crafting tonic water to homemade meals from local produce, Nambu always delivers up a smorgasbord of delights.

    In keeping true to safari traditions, there are two activities per day, situated in a big five reserve. You have the choice to head out on foot or on a game drive to explore this vast and diverse landscape. The lodge overlooks a winding dry riverbed and bustling waterhole, which means guests can enjoy game viewing from the comfort of the lodge.

    To end off your safari, we recommend 3 nights at the luxury Nambu Camp.

    Game Drives at Nambu Camp

    Gin and Cocktails

    Breakfast on the Lawns

    Pool at Nambu Camp

    Aerial Views of Nambu

    Nambu Deck

    Mankwe Tented Retreat’s Top 5 Selling Points

    Mankwe Tented Retreat’s Top 5 Selling Points

    Mankwe Tented Retreat has certainly mastered the art of simple luxury, and encapsulated the true spirit of Botswana. there’s so much to love about Mankwe that it’s hard to narrow down our favourite things about this sanctuary. We’ve narrowed it down to our top 5 selling points.

    1. Two Swimming Pools

    During the height of summer, Botswana’s temperatures can reach a sizzling 40 degrees celsius. With its semi-arid climate, Botswana tends to be hot and dry year-round. Safari expeditions aside, one of the most enjoyable activities is to relax around a pool and soak up the African sun. A pool at a Botswana safari lodge is a welcome sight. Mankwe Tented Retreat overachieves when it comes to safari swimming pools, ensuring guests have abundant relaxation areas around two rather inviting pools.

    The main thatched area flows out from the dining and lounge area onto a wooden deck with sun loungers. This is also the area for alfresco dining. Follow one of the meandering wooden walkways, and you’ll end up in an enclave designed specifically for poolside living. The more private splash pool has a small bar, decking area, and relaxation spots.

    Botswan Lodge Swimming Pool

    Mankwe Tented Retreat Pool

    Mankwe Tented Retreat Safari Pool

    Mankwe Tented Retreat Splash Pool

    2. Extended Traverse in the Predator-Rich Khwai Region

    Mankwe have recently extended their traversing rights to include the pristine Khwai riverfront area, a renowned hotspot for predators. The Khwai River – an extension of the Okavango River –  is one of the most dramatic ecosystems in the greater Moremi region, and is an iconic destination for tourists. Essentially, the river is the “overflow” of Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve’s river border. Mankwe’s Khwai River traverse is an absolute sanctuary for wildlife. From waders to giant herbivores and marauding predators, you’re going to get front row seats to a unique wildlife spectacle.

    Mankwe Elephants Tusks

    Hippos in the Khwai Region

    Khwai River Wildlife in Okavango

    3. Secluded and Stylish Boma Area

    The boma forms part of any quintessential safari experience. Whether it’s a lodge that’s the pinnacle of luxury or an authentic bush camp, there must be a boma area. A boma is normally a secluded area complete with a firepit and roaring campfire, where safari chairs are strategically placed for fireside chatter. Mankwe’s boma can be used for sundowner drink set-ups, dinners under the stars, or relaxing after a day spent game viewing. Circled by a stack of rustic sticks, Mankwe’s boma is where the connection to others and the wild happens.

    Safari Boma Area at Mankwe

    Aerial View of Mankwe's Boma

    Roaring Fire in Mankwe's Boma

    4. Serene Sanctuary Atmosphere

    Mankwe is more than just a safari lodge. Constructed to look like a wooded retreat in the midst of the rugged bushveld, Mankwe has certainly embodied an atmosphere of a sanctuary. Expansive wooden decks, light decor, and muted palettes ensure a sense of harmony with its forested surroundings. This tented retreat is a sanctuary for the soul, and offers plenty of private spaces for all levels of relaxation. Whether it’s poolside bliss, simple spa treatments, or lazy days spent holed up in your luxury tented suite; Mankwe has certainly covered all bases.

    Mankwe Bar Area

    Mankwe Room Balcony Exterior

    Mankwe Lounge Pool Area

    Mankwe Tented Retreat Room

    5. Sunsets and Waterholes

    Golden hour is a celebrated time of day. Sunset is when the sky becomes ablaze with bold orange and gentle pinks. It’s hard to put into words the sheer beauty of a sunset in this part of the world. Botswana’s flat landscapes and uninterrupted terrain make the skies look endless, almost swallowing the land below. Mankwe has a waterhole in front of the lodge, which only amplifies the spectacular sunsets.

     

    Mankwe Sunset Sundowner

    Mankwe Waterholes

    Sundowner Game Drive

    Inspiring Interiors at Mboma Island Expeditions

    Inspiring Interiors at Mboma Island Expeditions

    Mboma Island Expeditions is a mobile camp situated on a pristine piece of paradise on the edge of the Moremi Game Reserve. Palm-fringed floodplains frequented by giant jumbo herds, foraging hippos, and elegant plains game provide the perfect backyard for this magical camp. Mboma is mobile, which means it’s set up in a choice of three remote sites at the meeting point of the Delta’s freshwaters and the Moremi’s iconic savannah terrain.

    The remarkable landscape sets the interior palette for magical Mboma, a camp that certainly doesn’t comprise when it comes to inspiring decor. The team at Mboma believes in the ethos “just because it’s mobile, doesn’t mean it can’t be tasteful”. Whether it’s the boho-syle scatter cushions, high-quality linen, or quaint bar area, Mboma certainly pays attention to detail. Mboma ensures their interiors are in tune with their remarkable surroundings, bringing in hues and charming pops of colour from the wilderness. A simple and stylish camp in perfect harmony with its wild backyard.

    Rooms are 5 Meru-style safari tents with en suite open-air bathrooms, each fitted with a chemical eco-toilet and vintage-style standing wash basins. Bedside tables are wooden butler’s trays with glasses, insect repellents, and lanterns for ambiance. Gentle khakis and bushveld greens in the soft furnishings complement the sturdy canvas walls and natural wood furniture. There are beds with swags, and full linen that provide a maximum level comfort. For guests who enjoy their privacy but don’t wish to be confined to their tent, there are safari chairs just outside each tent.

    Mboma Cuisine

    Mboma Delta Sundowner Drinks

    Mboma Dining in Botswana

    Mboma Food and Drink

    Mboma Island Expeditions-Ensuite

    Mboma Island Expeditions Lounge

    Mboma Island Expeditions Safari Dining

    Mboma Island Expeditions Tented Camp

    Mboma Island Expeditions Lanterns at Firepit

    Mboma Intimate Lounge Area

    Mboma Lounge and Tent

    Mboma Meru Style Tent

    Mboma Tented Camp Lounge

    Mboma Tented Interiors

    Mboma Island Expeditions Tents

    Mboma Island Expeditions Welcome

    The classic safari tents flow through to a main area where there’s a small lounge and relaxation section decorated in an ancient explorer style. Comfy grey couches encircle a heavy wooden Victorian-style trunk that doubles as a coffee table, while beautifully handcarved tree stumps cluster together to function as side tables. The expansive Bedouin tent provides ample cover for the quaint safari dining area, where the joy of Mboma’s homecooked fare can be enjoyed. Outside there’s a boma area with a roaring campfire surrounded by canvas safari chairs – this is the place where you form lasting connections with other passionate safari-goers.

    Staff always set-up the makeshift bar close to the crackling flames, where a table is laden with premium spirits and alcohol. Although rustic in nature, Mboma’s owners certainly understand the need for good quality beverages and fine food to add another level of satisification to the overall safari experience.

    Magical Mboma truly reflects the colourful spirit of Botswana. Simplicity, class, and stellar surroundings. This is our choice of mobile camp. 

    https://assets.sundestinations.co.za/mboma-island-expeditions/Mboma-Island-Expeditions-Fact-Sheet.pdf

     

     

     

    #MonthlyMankwe: Botswana Emerald Season Update

    #MonthlyMankwe: Botswana Emerald Season Update

    Mankwe Tented Retreat is thick in the throes of the emerald season, with sheets of rain replenishing the landscape on a regular basis. A recent Facebook post of ours briefly touched on Mankwe’s current sightings, so today we’re going to expand on Yolande’s recent update. From African wild dogs to elephants, awe-inspiring landscapes, and beautiful birds, Mankwe’s summer season is brimming with abundance.

    Elephant Herds in Botswana

    Moody Skies in Mankwe

    Mankwe Scenes Waterhole

    Summer brings with it a different kind of game viewing experience, where verdant landscapes come alive with the flutter and chorus from colourful summer migrant birds. Woodland kingfisher, arrow-marked babbler, paradise flycatcher, and the Kurrichane thrush are just a few of the visitors to Mankwe’s traverse. Yolande managed to photograph a few of the spectacular winged residents lapping up the spoils of the season.

    Cardinal Woodpecker Botswana

    Crested Barbet Birding Mankwe

    Birding at Mankwe Tented Retreat

    Spurfowl at Mankwe

    Glossy Starling at Mankwe

    Botswana’s drier winter season is renowned for being the time of year to spot big predators, and prolific game at waterholes. The thinned-out vegetation characterizing the winter season makes it easier to spot wildlife, while summer’s contrasting lush greens provide cover for predators to hide out. This summer, things are different – sightings are still at an all-time high!

    The breeding elephant herds are still congregating around waterholes, putting on quite a show for onlookers. Young calves are learning from elders within the herd, and bumbling around the muddy banks of dam, making for entertaining viewing.

    Elephant Calf in Bushveld

    Mankwe Elephant Herds

    Mankwe Tented Retreat Waterhole

    Mankwe Giraffe in Botswana

    Wildlife is still in abundance, moving between overflowing waterholes and dew-laden shrubbery. Although the bushveld is dense, the Mankwe team is still enjoying prolific sightings. The waterhole in front of the camp is a popular year-round place for plains game and pachyderms, while further afield predators roam the roads. While out on game drive, the intrepid team spotted a pack of wild dogs taking the easy route along the road just roaming the extensive Botswana wilderness. The pack was quite habituated to the game viewer, making viewing that much more exciting. These nomadic dogs cover a wide range, and are quite rare to spot. Seeing dogs in the wild is a privilege.

    Mankwe Lunch at Pan

    Wild Dogs in Botswana

    African Wild Dogs

    Lone African Wild Dog

     

    The African Retreats Portfolio

    The African Retreats Portfolio

    Once a month we will use our blogging platform to showcase properties from our sister company, African Retreats. African Retreats does the reservations and marketing for a collection of affordable lodges and traditional bush camps in Southern Africa, and creates activity-based itineraries to match. While most of the Sun Destinations properties are located in Big 5 areas, and include activities in their rates, the African Retreats collection focuses more on properties outside of reserves. To kick-off, we’re going to briefly introduce you to each property.

    Nambu Camp

    Elevated above the landscape and built on an old anthill lies Nambu Camp, a 6-bedroom safari lodge located in the heart of the Big 5 Balule Game Reserve. This is an owner-run and managed camp, and careful attention to detail is evident throughout the camp. Nambu is known for its off-the-charts dining experience, and beautiful riverside sundowner set-ups – the owner once made his own tonic water. Two game drives a day are included in your stay, and take place in the world-renown Balule. On-site there is a swimming pool, raised boma area, lounge, and various viewpoints. Simply put, Nambu is classy, charming, and oozes a laid-back sophistication.

    Click here: www.nambucamp.com

    Nambu Camp Bedroom

    Nambu Camp Main Area

    Nambu Camp Safari Experience

    Rukiya Safari Camp

    Owned by Lily and Conraad, Rukiya is known for its excellence and luxury take on affordability. Located in the Wild Rivers Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger, the camp offers beautifully constructed Meru-style tented rooms built on raised wooden platforms. There’s also a family-style villa for hire, complete with a wood-fired hot tub. The luxury camp is built on the banks of the river, under a canopy of trees. In front of camp, the lawns cascade down to the banks of the river, where hippos regularly forage. From short drives on the reserve to longer drives into the neighbouring Big 5 reserves and mountain biking, Rukiya offers abundant activities. One of the most Instagrammable spots at camp is the rim-flow swimming pool overlooking the river!

    Click here: www.rukiyacamp.com

    Mountain Biking in Kruger

    Rukiya Safari Pool

    Rukiya Safari Tent

    Sava Dunes

    Sava Dunes is the only coastal property in the portfolio, and is located in a remote location along the Inhambane Coast. There are 5 ocean-facing cottages overlooking the golden beach and expansive ocean; each with a private balcony. There is also a garden-facing chalet ideal for families! Sava is perfectly placed to experience a marine safari, while the actual lodge is on the sand dunes on the beach. Sava is a coastal sister camp to Rukiya (same owners), and provides the same level of luxury. The main selling point is the incredible swim-up bar, where visitors can order cocktails while enjoying a dip in the pool.

    Click here: www.savadunes.com

    Sava Dunes Mozambique

    Sava Dunes Beach Cottage

    Sava Dunes Snorkelling

    Kruger Cliffs 

    Kruger Cliffs is in an enviable location in the Greater Kruger, and offers supreme views of the Drakensberg Mountain range. The lodge is self-catering, and each unit has its own plunge pool on a raised deck. Expansive windows open out onto the wilderness, while outdoor showers provide the perfect invigorating experience in the bushveld. Each of the cottages has their own barbecue/braai area, and overlook the extensive wilderness beyond. Ideally located for activities in both lowveld and highveld, Kruger Cliffs is a favourite. We highly recommend booking the hiking experience through Kruger Cliffs combined with your standard

    Click here: www.krugercliffs.com

    Kruger Cliffs Sunset

    Bedroom at Kruger Cliffs

    Splash Pool at Kruger Cliffs

    Avoca Bush Camp

    Avoca is an authentic safari retreat in the Timbavati Nature Reserve, and offers guests the opportunity to stay in affordable accommodation in the heart of a game-rich, world-renown reserve. Avoca is a secluded rustic hideaway that looks like a massive log cabin. Accommodation at Avoca is basic and comfortable, sleeping 8 guests in either twin or double chalets, each with their own bathrooms. Each room is a little log cabin built beneath tall trees and within close proximity to the main lodge area, pool, and boma. Guests can hire out Avoca on a catered or self-catered basis.

    Click here: www.avocabushcamp.co.za

    Avoca Camp in Timbavati

    Avoca Log Cabin

    Avoca Bush Camp Game Drives

    Safari Moon Luxury Bush Lodge

    Safari Moon Luxury Bush is a 5-star graded property located in the Greater kruger with a guest house feel. It’s the ideal stopping point in between your Big 5 safari experiences. In every corner there’s designer decor and interiors, and beautiful architecture. It’s located close to Hoedspruit airport, and is the gateway for safari adventures.

    There are 6 stylish suites to choose from during your stay, named after different wildlife species that can be seen in the estate and around the lodge. Every room has its own charm, style and story, not forgetting a vibrant collection of both international and African art. The main lodge opens out to a stylish outside lounge area, pool deck, sun loungers, succulent gardens, braai area and cosy boma. Beautiful water features are found throughout the gardens, providing a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

    Click here: www.safarimoon.co.za

    Safari Moon Bedroom

    Safari Moon Pool

    Safari Moon Outdoor Dining

    Bushwa Game Lodge

    Bushwa Game Lodge is a malaria-free luxury safari lodge located in the Waterberg Biosphere, which is just a couple hours outside of Johannesburg. Bushwa is an incredible place for a weekend break.

    This luxurious lodge has a variety of accommodation options, luxury chalets and safari-style tents all with private balconies. There’s even a remote, romantic treehouse overlooking a waterhole that certainly sets the standard in terms of an exclusive romantic wilderness experience.  Relax at the rim-flow swimming that has breathtaking views of the wilderness, enjoy evenings under the stars in the boma area or relax in one of the many lounges. The self-catering camp also has its own swimming pool and facilities, making it ideal for groups.

    The treehouse is perfect for a spot of romance, and comes highly recommended for honeymooners. Food is a highlight at Bushwa, and there’s plenty of homegrown fare on offer – vegetables are produce are grown on the property. Bushwa is the ultimate in safari bliss.

    Click here: www.bushwa.co.za

    Bathroom at Bushwa

    River at Bushwa Game Lodge

    Bushwa Treehouse

    The Island River Lodge

    The Island River Lodge is a retreat resting on the banks of the Blyde River, and is a lush eden home to hippo, abundant birdlife, and a forest of ancient riverine trees.

    The Island River Lodge’s own backyard is an 8 hectare stretch of land in a prime location on the Blyde River. The accommodation sits under a canopy of trees and is dotted among lush, untouched pristine riverine vegetation.

    The Island River Lodge offers rustic and authentic accommodation provided on a dinner, bed and breakfast option or self-catering basis. Rooms are interlinked via meandering pathways that are lit up during evening times. This lodge is a birding paradise. Trumpeter hornbills, Pel’s fishing owl and kingfishers are just a few of the species to spot while enjoying the sweeping views of the river below from the viewing deck, boma and swimming pool area.

    Click here: www.island-river-lodge.co.za

    The Island Boma Area

    The Island River Lodge Decking Area

    The Island River Lodge Deck

    Kingly Bush Camp

    Resting comfortably in the heart of the Greater Kruger’s Big 5 territory amidst the dense mopane woodlands in the GDP Reserve, sits the charming and rustic Kingly Explorer Camp. Designed for the true wilderness explorer, this intimate camp holds great appeal for safari-enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in an authentic back-to-roots style safari experience.

    The entire camp is built around a waterhole frequented by buffalo and elephants. Each of the 4 tents is linked to the main area by lantern-lined elevated wooden walkways, offering an added sense of safety in the rugged wilderness.

    Click here: www.kinglyexplorercamp.co.za

    Kingly Explorer Camp Boat Cruise

    Kingly Explorer Camp

    Kingly Tented Unit