Guest’s of Brett’s recently embarked on a journey that traverses the vibrant cityscapes, lush vineyards, and awe-inspiring coastlines of the Western Cape, and continues into some of Africa’s most unforgettable wild landscapes. Starting in Cape Town, the adventure flows through the picturesque Winelands and the pristine shores where whales make their seasonal appearance. As the journey unfolds, it leads to Botswana’s remote wilderness, the wonder of Victoria Falls and the iconic Kruger National Park, concluding with the idyllic beaches of Mozambique. This was more than a trip; it’s an odyssey of landscapes, wildlife, and pure wonder. Here is their feedback:
Hi Brett,
We discussed the camps and hotels that we utilised on the trip and here are our thoughts:
1) La Splendita – Great location and fun bar / restaurant. We also really enjoyed the Butcher Shop and Grill next door. In fact we dined there 3 times ( including our last night ).
Please be aware that the property is not very impressive – passable on first stay with waterfront rooms, not so great in other rooms on return stay. It is in need of a major facelift.
2) Wine Country – Franschhoek property was first class. Although cold weather, the staff provided us with cozy fire and good service.
3) Hermanus – Really nice waterfront views. We could see whales from our rooms.
4) Kala Camp – our first camp and first safari ever. Great start to safari portion of the trip. The camp was small, rustic but fun. Staff were excellent, food was very good and our guide Cullen was terrific. The area was very green and lush and there was a lot of water – ‘ Wet Safari ‘. We did see a lot of animals, and the only other Land Cruiser we saw was from our camp. The first night we hand sundowners on a boat surrounded by hippos. We could hear breathing and snorting. Very special first night. The birdlife is very abundant there. Also, they have the best water bottles .
5) Muchenje – Chobe National Park has an amazing number of animals. Our lodge had our two day agenda packed solid from 0530 to 2000. Morning, afternoon and night safaris. The food was great, as was the service. Our chalet accommodations were first rate. There was a full house and gang dining was crowded with 24 guests.
6) Pioneers – Very nice property. The food, service and staff were wonderful. We did a Zambezi evening cruise, which was nice with great food and drink. The next morning we did the Victoria Falls walk and in the afternoon we took a Helicopter ride over the Falls.
Footnote : when we arrived at the hotel we discovered that one of our backpacks was left behind at the border. The staff immediately got hold of the transport folks and the backpack arrived 4 hours later. Very impressive.
7) Safari Moon – Five star lodging and service. The food was excellent. Exotic animals were showing up all of the time. Cindy and John stayed in the Tom Cruise villa!
Also be aware that we felt it was too long a day to do the Panorama Drive from here – we spent 12 hours driving. Osprey had to rent a Land Cruiser for our Kruger safari. The vehicle exposed us to excessive exhaust fumes on the way in, and OK with windows down during park drive. Same problem on the return until the driver solved the issue. Please Osprey, do not use poorly conditioned rental Land Cruisers – they could have used a van for us in Kruger.
8) Senelala – Great camp. We are treated royally by management and team. They all greeted us with a welcome sign with our names on it; and they all came to say good bye when we left. Excellent food and drink. Great accommodation. We liked the fact that they only have a maximum of 6 passengers per Land Cruiser. One first female guide, and Lisa was was terrific.
9) Umkumbe – Very nice camp. Great tents – very large with glass entrance doors.Lovely landscaped grounds.Good food and drinks. We had another female guide, Elzaan – very well trained and knowledgeable.
10) Olivers – What a treat! Only one night but we wanted more. They upgraded us to two one bedroom suites, each with two bathrooms, and massive balconies overlooking the pool. The service was over-the-top, and the food was excellent.
11) Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel- our wind-down resort for 4 nights. Wonderful property, great views and excellent staff. We enjoyed the pool, the food and our full day boat charter to Bazaruto National Park.
12) Visas – It was difficult to get good info on cost, etc. FYI – Zimbabwe charges $30 US for Americans and $60 US for Canadians, per person in US cash! Mozambique charges $11 US per person for Americans and Canadians in US or Rand cash.
Regards
Bob and Cindy
