Safari Blog

Dear Brett,

We had a fabulous trip and the camps were absolutely wonderful. Our favourites were Camp Moremi and Savute Safari Lodge because we saw the best animals. The other two camps, Camp Okavango and Chobe Savanna Lodge were equally beautiful and the staff there delightful, but they were not really what we wanted for our animal viewing. Both camps seemed much more suitable for relaxing and drinking cocktails by the pool. We much preferred the safari vehicles and seeing big stuff and we just loved driving for hours and hours spotting all sorts of wildlife.

We hope that in the very near future, perhaps next year, we can do another safari. We were thinking of Tanzania.

We took many photos and will send you some soon.

Best wishes,
Julian, Maggie and Bonny.

Dear Brett

The Victoria Falls and the Chobe Park were just outstanding, a real highlight! We booked a helicopter flight which is the best way to visit the falls

The Royal Livingstone is a top adress for those who can afford it. Very nice and clean rooms and a great place to be. Food is good and service is friendly

Slightly below, but still very nice is the Chobe Game Lodge. Beautiful location, very nice view, nice rooms, etc. The park is a jewel and I will never forget all the elephants, crocodiles, etc. in this magnificant landscape

The only negative with both hotels/lodges is if you eat "a la carte" it takes extremely long!

Everything went well. Thanks for the good organisation

Thierry

Hi Brett,

Hope all is well. Just a note to let you know we had a fantastic time, all went well everyone was there to transfer us to our various destinations. Thorntree River Lodge, was thoroughly enjoyable, the managers Lindsay and Nevin were extremely friendly and helpful and good fun. Saw 6 hippos the first night 30 metres from our hut grazing on the lawn. Great start to our trip.

Thoroughly enjoyed the elephant safari was one of the highlights! Safari into Chobe was interesting, the river was beautiful, saw stacks of animals. We were really please that you sent us to Camp Shawu we had the place to ourselves, Juluka our guide was fantastic we learnt so much from him, Saw plenty of wildlife, saw lions 3 times (saw them eating the buffalo that they had killed overnight) we saw the outline of 2 leopards lounging in a tree after they had killed a impala (which was hanging in another tree) as it was getting dark.

For future reference seeing as you didn't know anything about Buhala Lodge it was very nice, right on the banks of the Ccrocodile River great food and service and the other guests staying there who went on game drives into Kruger saw just as much game and sometimes more than what we did. It is also the only lodge at the moment that allows guests to play golf at Leopard Creek which I have to tell you is absolutely fantastic and extremely very private. All in all a fantastic holiday, Africia has so much to offer and I would like to thank you again for all your help and guidance I will definately use your services again if we get back there(which we would love to do)

Cheers andf thank you.
Louise

We still have limited availability on our Serengeti Private Camping safari for June and July 2008. The camp will be based in the western corridor of the Serengeti, either at the Ikoma Private Camp or further north at one of the private camps within the Serengeti. We can offer this late availability to see the migration as we use private exclusive camps.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to see this incredible wildlife spectacle.

Speak to one of our East Africa specialists to find out more about booking this itinerary.

THE Zambian government has officially approved its dropping of its visa waiver system. The following visa fees are payable upon entry for all visitors to Zambia:

British nationals: £75 for single entry and £240 for multiple entry

American nationals: $135 for standard visa

Canadian nationals: $55 for standard visa

Other nationalities: $50 for single, $80 for double and $160 for multiple entry

Although the decision was enforced from the end of January, final governmental approval was only recently provided.

Hi Brett,

The Safari was fantastic. There were no hitches and all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The camps were all that we expected with great service, good food and facilities just right for a bush experience. The guides and trackers on our drives were superb. They were very knowledgeable about the bush, birds and animals and were the making of the trip.

The transfers (with Moremi air) went smoothly. Our only problem was with Air Botswana- they overbooked our return flight from Maun to Jhb and put 20 of us on a small plane instead! Not part of your booking though.

So all in all, we are completely satisfied. Thanks for your assistance.

Regards
John Rose

The Rose Group visted Kwara Camp and Kwando Lagoon Camp in Botswana.

Great Safaris Brett.

The Savanna Lodge is on the Namibia side of the river so we had to go thru their passport office. Quiet an experience. The Lodge itself is small and feels like family. All the guests eat at one large table. Very knowageable staff, and guides are great. Especially Gibson who knew the names of every bird on the river. Game Lodge was much more up-scale and very, very nice. The food was excellent. Accommodations of both lodges were very good.

Thanks for your help.
Wonderful experience.
Kay Arrington

The Arrington's visited Chobe Savanna Lodge and Chobe Game Lodge located on the Namibian and Botswana side of the Chobe River.

One of the ladies that I have helped with safari's on two previous occasions was in South Africa recently and requested a a 4 night safari in the Kruger. Read her feedback below. Sally visited Nottens Bush Camp and Kings Camp.

Hi Brett,

Just flew in this morning and now back at work which has not thrilled me at all!

My safari went well. The transfers all worked very well. Nottens is a lovely little place, not so fancy as some of the other camps but the family are absolutely delightful and very welcoming. The one down side, and it is an important point, is that the giude I had there is the first guide I have had who seemed largely disinterested in really tracking down animals for us to see or imparting much knowledge to us or even really chatting or smiling with us at all. Given that every guide I have had everywhere else has bent over backwards to make the experience totally fantastic the contrast was very noticeable. I thought this was a real shame as all the other people working there were really great.

Kings Camp is, as you know, very elegant and colonial and the guides and trackers were second to none. There doesn't appear to anything like the amount of game wandering around at this time of year as September / October, but I had great lion and leopard sightings. So I had a great time Brett, thanks for your help with the organisation.

I have to say that of the two locations Botswana is definitely now my favourite, but this doesn't mean that Kruger isn't totally enjoyable. I also prefer the tented camp lodges so will bear this in mind next time I do safari. I do hope you are well and had a good Easter, it was great to finally meet you in Cape Town and I am sure we will speak again soon.

Kindest regards,
Sally

Renate,

I so enjoyed the vacation portion of my visit to S. Africa. You all were such a big help! My safaris were great fun and I saw many animals! I even saw Southern Right Whales near Hermanus. Thanks again, You and Brett were wonderful.

Best,
Alicia

Alicia visited Gomo Gomo and Elephant Plains as well the Coachhouse and Blyde River Canyon Lodge.

Hi Brett,

We have had a fantastic holiday at all three places. The country and the people were just like a garden of Eden and we have come back with such wonderful memories.

We would like to thank you for your advice about which camps to stay in and in which order. We were very impressed with all the arrangements you had made on our behalf, everything went very smoothly. We saw lots of animals and birds despite the fact it was low season.

This was our first safari holiday and such a good experience that we would not hesitate to use you again.

With our very best wishes and kind regards,
Martin and Jeanette Shipley

Martin and Jeanette visited Savute Safari Lodge, Kanana and Shinde Camp in Botswana.

Thank you for the email Renate.

I had been meaning to drop you a line to say thank you very much for organising the trip for us. We had a really super time, loved King's Camp (everyone was very professional and friendly).

We are both now back in dreary wet Ireland dreaming of sunny South Africa!

If we decide to do another Safari in the future we will definitely book through you and will also recommend your company to any friend or colleagues should they be looking to take a trip to South Africa.

Thanks again
Jane

I would like to welcome Liselle Raath, who joined the SUNSAFARIS team today. Liselle has worked in the safari and travel industry for a few years and has travelled extensively through South Africa and the Kruger, and also abroad.

Welcome Liselle!

Thank you very much for suggesting and arranging our trip to Idwala. From the moment we arrived at PE airport to our departure everything was fantastic.

Idwala is a very small lodge but has a very big heart. From the time we were met at reception we were made to feel like friends and not guests.  

Everything was great, from the chalets (we were in Elephant which overlooked the waterhole) to all of the staff, the food was wicked - have still not ventured onto the scales!! Our ranger, Frank, was very knowledgeable and went out of his way to find animals for us on our last morning after the previous evenings drive was cancelled due to torrential rain.

It was very hard to leave Idwala.

Kind regards,
Pat Sauvarin & Gene Rowe

Last weekend I visited the Welgevonden Game Reserve in South Africa. The Welgevonden is about 3 hours drive north of Johannesburg and very easy to find. Even Renate, who regularly gets lost on her way to educationals, will be able to find it. The Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is a 34 200 ha, privately owned game reserve in the heart of the Waterberg in the Limpopo province of South Africa. It first started as a conservation area in 1993 through a private sector initiative that resulted in the consolidation of numerous private farms.

The main reason for my visit was to assess the quality of game viewing, as this is extremely important in the decisions I make when advising guests on which safari lodges to visit.  

I visited Makweti Safari Lodge and then also Mhondoro Safari Lodge. Both lodges are privately owned and have traversing over the entire reserve. I have visited over a hundred different safari lodges in southern Africa and Makweti is real quality in terms of the level of accommodation, quality of food and service. The lodge has a beautiful site with beautiful views. The chalets are very large and very luxurious. I had possibly the best sleep of my life in their king size bed (admittedly I was tired after attending a bachelor party in JHB the night before!) The main areas are also very well appointed with a fantastic bar area, lounge, balcony and dining and boma.

I was very well looked after by the Makweti team and was guided on my two game drives by both Jacques and Glen. Both were experienced rangers having worked not only in the Welgevonden but also other safari areas in South Africa.

I was also very impressed with Mhondoro, which is another excellent safari lodge in the Welgevonden. It was not as luxurious as Makweti, but the quality of food and service was just as good. The chalets are large and overlook a waterhole. The main areas were comfortable but probably in need of a soft refurbishment in order to keep up with other similar quality safari lodges. What impressed me the most about Mhondoro was the friendliness of the kitchen staff – they often came out and chatted to the guests.

As regards the game viewing in the Welgevonden, I was reasonably impressed. I saw lions, elephants and the usual plains game. What did surprise me was how many rhino I saw. In one particular area there were rhino literally around every corner. So if you want to see rhino, then visit the Welgevonden! I was also pleasantly surprised at how few vehicles there were around – this is quite unusual as there are a few lodges in the area and in my opinion there are fewer vehicles around as opposed to some of the other safari areas in South Africa. On the big sightings, like lions for example, they do allow four vehicles, which in my opinion is too many. Most other reserves only allow three.

I would rate the game viewing as good, although still not as good as what you would get at the private reserves of the Kruger. However, variety is the spice of life, and safari lovers should definitely consider a visit to the Welgevonden. In fact, instead of the usual Cape Town, Garden Route and Kruger Safari, guests should consider combining Cape Town, the Welgevonden, Tzaneen area, then a Kruger Safari and visit to the Panorama Route. This in my opinion would be much more of an African experience and would expose you to two different wildlife areas and beautiful scenery.

To end off I would just like to thank Helen from Makweti, Celeste and Caroline from Classic Retreats and Tracy from Mhondoro for arranging my educational to the Welgevonden.

Hi Brett,

Thanks for your email. I had intended to contact you but have been travelling en-route to St Helena and not had an opportunity.

The safari went extremely well and every aspect was weel organised and co-ordinated. Thank you for your assisitance. The camps were all great and we dont really have any criticisms but if we were to do it again, we might opt for only one night at Camp Okavango. While the camp itself was great, the safari opportunities are a bit restricted in the wet season and we would have preferred another night at any of the other camps. Nevertheless, the safari was an unforgetable experience that went without as hitch.

Thanks again.

John and Judi.

John and Judi visited Meno a Kewna, Camp Okuti, Camp Okavango and Savute Safari Lodge.

Hello Brett,

A quick hello to let you know we arrived home safe and sound but very tired! ( 27hours to Vancouver from Savanna Camp). Just wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful trip, and that the package you put together for us was terrific! For a first time trip to Africa, it gave us a great overview. The accommodations were great, the connections all worked out, Steven Muller was great, and the camps were way beyond our expectations!

I will recommend your services to any of my friends that would like to visit South Africa. Thank-you for organizing the Lounge at the Joberg airport, much appreciated. Thank-you for such a wonderful African experience!

Cheers,
Byron and Leslie Thorson

The Thorson's and Garfinkle's stayed at Xigera, The River Club, VA Hotel, The Franschhoek, Phantom Forest, Kings Camp and Savanna Tented Lodge

I recently assisted in arranging an educational for a journalist from Northen Ireland, in conjunction with Classic Retreats, to Samara Private Game Reserve, and Blaauwbosch Game Reserve.

Juliet:

Just a note to say that we had the most magical time at both reserves and to thank yourselves and Brett for making the arrangements.

I am now working my way through interviews with Andrew McNaughton - a retired Karoo farmer whom we met at dinner at Samara - and the Head Ranger there, Les Slabbert, both of whom were enormously helpful, and knowledgeable. I also got a detailed and fascinating interview with Craig Cullingworth.

When I have got my head around all this during the next few days I'll come back to you about making arrangements re an interview with Mr Tompkins.

Regards and thanks.
George Hamilton

Hi Brett

Had an excellent time at Notten's thank you. The staff had all worked there for a very long time and it was a real family business.

I had a lovely room overlooking the plain in front of the lodge.  

On the first night I was there I was the only 'official' guest however, there were 4 friends of David Notten's visiting them. 2 of them were ex rangers so it was very interesting. One of them owns part of the company 'Eco Training' which looks very interesting. He gave me their brochure in case I'm interested in it in the future.

I only saw 1 male lion but saw a female leopard, briefly, and a male leopard (photo attached). Unfortunately when we saw the male leopard it was raining and getting dark so the photos weren't great but it was still really good to see him.  

All the other game viewings were really good too. The ranger had worked there for 21 years so really knew his stuff!

The food was really good and I had a massage in my room. I definitely prefer these smaller lodges where you are looked after very well. David Notten and his wife, Mia, were very friendly.

The only down side to it was not nearly getting there. That was a real nightmare. Did you hear anything from SAA about it? (Basically SAA just changed their scheduled without advising us - Brett).

Kind regards Caley

During the bush walk you will have the opportunity to take a closer look at animal tracks, birds, different types of grasses and trees, as well as any smaller details of the bush that might fascinate you.

The daily bush walk takes place after breakfast. Your ranger will confirm the time with you during breakfast. Please take note that you will be accompanied by either your ranger or tracker.

Please take note of the following:

Guests are not allowed to leave the camp and walk alone. For safety reasons, most camps unfortunately do not allow children aged 16 and under, to go on the bush walk. Should you wish, we could organize a ranger or tracker to take the children on a mini bush walk inside the camp area. Guests over the age of 60 would be required to provide a medical certificate stating that they are in good health and fit to go on a bush walk. Please also ensure that you bring closed shoes, neutral coloured clothing, a hat, sunscreen as well as insect repellent. The ranger/tracker will use their discretion concerning anything that could pose a threat or jeopardise the safety of guests, these include the degree of fitness, agility and physical restrictions.

Zambian Airways announced its biggest and best programme of flights yet!

Highlights of the new schedule include:

NEW! Livingstone to Johannesburg direct 4 times a week
NEW! Ndola to Dar es Salaam direct services NEW! Ndola connection to British Airways London flights
NEW! Lusaka to Mfuwe on 737 direct off British Airways 3 times a week
MORE! Livingstone 3 times a day
MORE! Ndola to Johannesburg 5 times a week
MORE! Dar es Salaam 5 times a week

On the three days a week that British Airways flies to Lusaka, Zambian Airways will provide a convenient connection to Mfuwe in the speed and comfort of their 737 jets.

And, in another first, there will be a direct early morning connection from both Livingstone and Ndola to Lusaka to connect to the British Airways flight to London. The overnight stop in Lusaka will be a thing of the past.

In the other direction there will also be a direct connection from British Airways to both Livingstone and Ndola.  

Hi Brett

We have only just returned to Australia. Thank you for booking Motswari for us. We had the most wonderful stay there! From the warm and friendly welcome to the really comfortable rooms, the delicious food presented with such pride to the enthusiasm of the ranger and his tracker, all details making a happy and carefree stay were attended to. Motswari fits so beautifully into the surrounding bush and Steve and Kathy do an excellent job providing a good ambience. We have been to the greater Kruger many times but each experience is different and this will go down as one of the best as we had wonderful game viewings and memorable evenings around the fire in the boma.

King regards
Jenny

Charene has decided to pursue a different career, and will sadly be leaving SUNSAFARIS on Friday the 1 February 2008. I would like to wish her all the best in her new career!

All guests of Charene's will be handed over to Renate at renate@sunsafaris.com or +27 21 4187306.

Without prior notice and with immediate effect as of 26 January 2008, the Zambian government has abolished the visa waiver system that exempted guests placed on the manifest from paying visa fees on arrival. This sudden change will of course affect all of our guests who will not be allowed entry into the country without paying these costs.

In addition the new regulations have seen an increase in visa fees for many countries. Although this decision has apparently yet to be approved by the Zambian parliament it is already being enforced and has caused some consternation at the international entry points to the country where it applies to travelers both entering Zambia and also in transit through Zambia.

Below please find the latest information and ensure that you are informed of the changes and increased costs before you travel to Zambia. Bear in mind too that those countries that did not require visas in the past, still do not require visas and thus are not required to pay on arrival.

US citizens: single entry – US$135.00; double entry – US$135.00; multiple entry – US$135.00

UK citizens: single entry – GBP75.00; multiple entry – GBP240.00

Canadian citizens: single entry – US$55.00; double entry – US$55.00; multiple entry – US$55.00

Other nationalities: single entry – US$50.00; double entry – US$80.00; multiple entry – US$160.00

We regret the impact that this situation outside of our control will have our guests and trust that with swift communication we can limit its impact.

Hi Brett

We returned yesterday from our trip to South Africa and had a fantastic time. All the aspects of the trip that you organised were great, thank you so much for everything. We particularly liked Tanamera which was a great location with stunning views.

Motswari was also a fantastic lodge which I would highly recommend - everyone at the lodge was so welcoming and made the stay so enjoyable. The transfers all happened on time which was great and everything was exactly as you said it would be. Thanks again for organising such a fantastic trip for us. I will have no hesitation in recommending your company to friends and family.

Best Regards, Karen Goulding

We had a great time. The camps were very good and the combination was excellent, with mokoro’s (lovely experience through those quiet marshes) and walking safaris’ at Kwetsani (but relatively little game) and fascinating game drives at Duba (amazing interaction between the lions and buffalos – and such interesting, albeit sad stories about that lion pride).

The camp at Duba was probably slightly prettier, but I would note the staff at Kwetsani were better trained/more client orientated. Staff at Duba were fine, but for instance quite noisy during siesta time. The guides in both camps were very good and helpful. We did find my Pel’s right inside Kwetsani! Thanks for your suggestions - I think we made the right changes given Xigera’s closure (although we did hear very good things about Xigera and Little Vum as well..).

Peter