Depart London Heathrow to Cape Town International Airport arriving Monday 13 May 2019.
Welcome to Cape Town…
Scenically beautiful, Cape Town is a compelling mix of trendy modern and old-world elegance. Glamorous hotels, world-class dining and stunning vistas merge seamlessly with dynamic student suburbs and vibrant nightlife. Malay and African heritage is evident in the cuisine, traditions and entertainment while the architecture reveals a strong Dutch, German and English flavour and style. Contemporary art is proudly displayed in a variety of galleries and modern boutique hotels, and wine bars and brandy tasting lounges will appeal to the fashionable set. For the well-heeled the finest in opera, ballet, drama and music can be appreciated in style.
You will receive a Private Road Transfer from Cape Town International Airport to Welgelegen an intimate boutique hotel, located in the suburb of Gardens, at the foot of Table Mountain.
Spend 4 nights in 1 Superior Room including breakfast.
This hidden oasis, housed in two restored Victorian homes linked by a central courtyard and swimming pool, consists of 14 luxurious rooms, all comfortably furnished and elegantly decorated. Some rooms lead onto a courtyard or balcony. The main house has a spacious sitting room, breakfast room and a cosy library.
It is a sanctuary in the city, nestled in a tranquil street yet a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A short walk takes you to Kloof Street and some of Cape Town’s best local restaurants, bars, museums and artisanal stores.
The Big 5 Safari Company will be pleased to arrange a variety of tours to explore and experience this exciting city. A list follows by email.
Cape Point & Peninsular Privately Guided Full Day Tour:
Travel along the Atlantic Seaboard via Sea Point, Clifton and Camps Bay, to Hout Bay, a quaint village and fishing harbour with magnificent mountain views and beach. Continue via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point which is perceived to be the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Go on to historic Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, a naval base and a large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach. Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African Penguin. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the penguins in their natural habitat and there is also a new information centre.
A lunch stop is made nearby. End the day with a visit to the well-known Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. The Garden includes five of South Africa’s six different biomes and is world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape Flora it displays as well as for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The tour ends at ± 17:30 with drop-off at your hotel.
A Hire Car will be delivered to Welgelegen Boutique Hotel to allow you to explore the stunningly beautiful Cape Winelands region.
An easy drive from Cape Town, the Winelands dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions award-winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak-lined streets of the local towns. The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel and, as the historic hub of the Winelands it is surrounded by around 200 wineries.
Spend 3 nights in Franschhoek at Avondrood Guest House in 1 Superior Room including Breakfast.
Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest’s finest offerings.
Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living, and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.
Depart Cape Winelands for the short one hour self-drive to Cape Town Station to commence your luxury rail journey with Rovos Rail.
20-22 May – Cape Town to Pretoria in 1 Pullman Suite
20 May
Relax in the comfortable pre-departure lounge in preparation to step on board the ‘Pride of Africa’ for its scheduled 11h00 departure from Cape Town. Socialize in the observation car as the train winds through the scenic areas of Touws River, De Doorns and Worcester through the four tunnels of the Hex River Pass. The train makes a stop in the historic village of Matjiesfontein. Enjoy excellent company and cuisine before retiring to your luxury accommodation for the night.
21 May
This afternoon the train makes an interesting stop in Kimberley, allowing plenty of time for you to visit the ‘Big Hole’ and the Diamond Museum. Dinner is served as the train continues its journey through Bloemhof, Leeudoringstad and Klerksdorp.
22 May
The train forges on at a relaxing pace, passing through Krugersdorp, Johannesburg and Germiston, arriving at Centurion where the Rovos locomotive takes over and steams the train into Capital Park, Pretoria at around 12h00 noon.
Welcome to Pretoria…
Spend 1 night at Castello Di Monte in 1 Classic Room including breakfast, morning tea/coffee and transfers from Rovos Rail Station.
With its pretty tree-lined streets and historic buildings Pretoria has a genteel air about it, a little more grown-up than its counterpart, Johannesburg. The city, named after the Voortrekker leader, is home to the massive Voortrekker Monument, a tribute to the history of these brave men and women and their contribution to South Africa’s pioneering history. The archaeological masterpieces – Sir Herbert Baker’s Union Buildings and the edifices and statues of Church Square – provide a fascinating look into the country’s past, neatly juxtaposed against the current governance of Africa’s powerhouse.
In spring the Jacaranda trees burst into bloom, and the nickname “Jacaranda City” becomes evident. Gorgeous purple flowers bring rows of trees to life and begin to carpet the streets in blankets of colour.
Take a Private Road Transfer of approximately 30 minutes to arrive at Johannesburg O R Tambo International Airport for your flight to Livingstone, Zambia.
On arrival into Livingstone you will be met for the 25 minute road journey to Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, built on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park.
Spend 2 nights in 1 Treehouse including lodge activities.
Named after Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends Sussi and Chuma, the lodge is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the Zambezi amidst Jackalberry trees and Phoenix palms, providing unrivalled views and exclusivity. Accommodation is in twelve Sussi tree-houses, connected by wooden walkways.
The following activities are included in your stay:
Game Drives: Here the highly trained safari guides take guests on game drives in custom-built 4 x 4 safari vehicles to see plains game.
Rhino – Be directed by an anti-poaching unit to the location of these beautiful animals to walk within a few metres with your guide.
Canoeing on the Zambezi: A 2 hour activity either in the morning or afternoon.
Tour of the Victoria Falls – Zambia side: Just a short drive away from the world famous Victoria Falls, the lodge offers guests a walking tour of The Falls.
Walking Safaris: Guests will also be accompanied by an armed National Parks ranger with tea/coffee or sundowners.
Zambezi Sundowner Cruise: Sanctuary Retreats’ boats are specially designed and the guide will take the boat through a series of grade 2 rapids before finding a spot to beach for a break and a sunset cocktail.
Local school & village tour
Fishing: The fishing season generally opens on 1st March each year. All fishing is on a strict “Catch and Release” policy. Fishing can either be from the river bank in front of the lodge; however it is preferable to go out on the river in a boat as it is a safety risk to fish off the river bank because of the crocs!
Journey to Livingstone Airport by road transfer to meet your flight via Lusaka to Mfuwe Airport in the South Luangwa National Park.
The South Luangwa National Park is situated in Zambia’s renowned Luangwa Valley, at the tail end of the Great Rift Valley. It boasts one of Africa’s highest game concentrations, around the river, and was the pioneering locale for walking safaris – still one of the best ways to experience true African wilderness. Founded in 1938, South Luangwa was declared a National Park in 1972, and this 9050km² zone is now one of the most accessible and popular parks in Zambia. The terrain consists of dense woodlands, oxbow pools, floodplains and patches of grassland.
You will be met at Mfuwe Airport by your Robin Pope Safaris guide and a 4×4 open vehicle for your transfer to Nkwali Camp to spend 2 nights, in 1 Chalet fully inclusive.
Nkwali is located on Robin Pope Safaris private land just outside the South Luangwa National Park. This is a delightful small safari camp on the banks of the Luangwa River. Nkwali Camp is in prime game country, and game drives and walking safaris with the top-notch guides are hugely rewarding.
Other activities include: cultural/village tour, visit to Chimpembele Wild Life Orphanage, visit local market and a visit to Tribal Textiles for locally produced hand-painted textiles.
Travel by 4×4 on dirt roads deep into the South Luangwa National Park to the far north of the remote and exclusive Nsefu Sector to Nsefu Camp an historic camp in that it was the first photographic safari camp in Zambia.
Spend 3 nights in 1 Rondavel, fully inclusive.
Nsefu Camp’s expert guides take you on unforgettable dawn safaris, walking safaris and game drives through the national park.
The valley is dependent on the Luangwa River, a major river system which supports the area’s large buffalo and elephant herds, Thornicroft giraffe, plains game and prolific birdlife. Cookson’s Wildebeest and Crawshay’s Zebra are endemic to the area, and the brightly coloured migratory birds, and bird of prey from as far afield as the Russian steppes draw visitors throughout the year. Hippo and crocodiles dominate the waters, and on the steep sandy banks, the fascinating carmine bee-eaters busily dart in and out of their nests.
Depart the South Luangwa by road and plane to the Lower Zambezi one of Africa’s most scenic wildlife areas. Nestled between the Zambezi River itself and the escarpment beyond, the Lower Zambezi is a stunning park with arguably the widest choice of safari activities in Africa.
Spend 3 nights at Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp in 1 Tent, fully inclusive.
Available on a Pay 3 Stay 4 basis should you wish to stay longer.
Lining the Zambian side of the mighty Zambezi, Lower Zambezi is opposite Zimbabwe’s famous Mana Pools and shares its northern border with the huge rift escarpment. The different habitats encourage a great variety of flora and fauna. The park’s diversity of safari activities is a major attraction. You can game drive at day and night, as well as walk, boat and canoe here. Tiger fishing is also an exciting activity (catch and release policy only!).
Bigger mammals, predators, elephant herds and plains game are attracted to the valley. Crocodiles and hippo dominate the waters, and along the Zambezi banks, the canopy of ebony and fig trees are alive with the constant movement and calls of numerous avian species.
Depart Anabezi by light aircraft to Lusaka to meet with your onward flight home.
Avondrood Guest House is an historic Cape Dutch homestead, located in the Wineland’s village of Franschhoek. Built in 1870, ...
Built in 1870, the house retains its Victorian charm and boasts interiors with a contemporary elegance.
There are eight large suites to choose from at Avondrood Guest House, all lavishly decorated with individual themes and character. The family room features an upstairs verandah and mountain views.
Breakfast is served on the patio, or in the lounge, and guests can stroll to the town centre to take advantage of the gourmet restaurants and cafes for which Franschhoek is renowned. When not out exploring the magnificent wine estates in the surrounding area, perhaps soak up the sun in the secluded garden, with its pool and Jacuzzi.
Capturing the romance of a bygone era, Rovos Rail immerses travellers in colonial indulgence, while the beauty of Southern Africa ...
The meticulously restored “Pride of Africa” trains can accommodate up to 72 guests in 36 superbly appointed Suites. Period decor and tasteful finishes offer en-suite luxury, and the spacious Royal Suites boast a Victorian bath from which to watch the world go by. Attentive butler service and modern conveniences (personal safes, air-conditioning and a bar and fridge) ensure guests are comfortable at all times.
Excellent cuisine is paired with fine wines and beautifully presented in the signature dining car – the atmosphere of grandeur and tradition suitably complemented by the transitory landscape. The train’s sedate pace allows stops for professionally operated walks, game drives and tours. Routing destinations include Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Victoria Falls, Namibia and Dar es Salaam, with a focus on scenery, golfing, animals and history, depending on the route chosen.
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma is nestled along riverine trees on the banks of the Zambezi River, within the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National ...
A mere 12 kms upstream from the majestic Victoria Falls, the property boasts a remote setting, without being too removed from the main hub. This is a boutique property catering for individuals and families.
12 luxury Tree-houses are built into the canopy of majestic ebony trees lining the river bank and connected by wooden walkways. Each is well appointed with muted tones, natural wood floors and open-plan bathrooms. Stunning vistas may be appreciated from private decks. Soak up river views from the elevated bar in the two-level main lodge, select fine wines from the cellar and savour delicious meals in the open-air dining room.
This is a Livingstone destination, not a safari camp or game viewing lodge – although it comes with lots of extras. Guests may enjoy a tour of the Falls on the Zambian side, a game drive through the National Park, limited canoeing, walking and (optional extra) seasonal fishing.
Nkwali is located on private land on the banks of the Luangwa River, overlooking the South Luangwa National Park. This is ...
The land is superb game viewing country, with a beautiful area of ebony woodland and open grass plains. Elephants often cross the Luangwa, seen from the bar, or come down to the waterhole which is near the thatched dining room.
The six chalets are cool and spacious, with an amazing view of the Luangwa River. They offer rustic luxury with their bamboo woven walls and thatch roofs. They have en-suite semi-open air bathrooms with flush loo, double shower and basins. There is one double, four twins and a honeymoon suite/family suite.
Throughout the year there is exclusive direct access from camp into the park by boat. During the dry months camp operates a pontoon into the more southern part of the area.
Nsefu was the first game camp in Zambia and dates back to the early 1950's. The exclusive Nsefu Sector in the South Luangwa ...
Nsefu Camp is situated on a magnificent meander on the Luangwa River where elephants often cross. The Luangwa River with its ox bow lagoons, tributaries, riverine supported woodlands and large plains, all play host to huge concentrations of game including elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, giraffe, hippo and over 450 species of birds.
Six traditional rondavels have been upgraded with spacious ensuite bathrooms, all enjoying views over the Luangwa River each with a terraced area where game grazes during the day. The bar and sitting area is tucked inbetween a huge dormant termite mound and a lagoon making the most of the extensive wildlife that comes down to the lagoon to drink, especially leopard at night.
Anabezi Camp has an exclusive setting overlooking the Mushika River floodplain and the Zambezi River. Anabezi's name is derived ...
Anabezi’s name is derived from the Ana Trees or Winterthorns that surround it and is located in the secluded far eastern end of the Lower Zambezi National Park.
Luxurious and beautifully appointed, the 12 canvas and wood suites are spacious with separate lounges, large bedrooms and in- and outdoor bathrooms. The gauze-fronted suites are light and airy and open out to private decks and plunge pools from which guests may appreciate the stunning riverine setting. Raised wooden walkways link to attractive central spaces and two common areas – with their own pools, viewing decks and dining zones – provide families or groups with the opportunity for exclusivity. Settle on the deck watching for animals from the comfort of an armchair, or simply soaking up the tranquillity of the environs. Spend evenings gathered around a blazing fire, star-gazing and socialising. Game drive through the national park, or enjoy boating safaris and canoeing on the river. Game walks and seasonal catch and release fishing are also available.
This premier itinerary includes the following Camps:
Avis Car Hire Group D (Automatic, aircon & power steering) Ford Fiesta/i20 Hyundai Hatch Automatic or similar on a Premium Package basis.
Private road transfers with the exception of Sussi & Chuma which is a scheduled road transfer.
Cape Point & Peninsular Full Day Private Tour
Welgelegen Boutique Hotel includes breakfast
Avondrood Guest House includes breakfast
Rovos Rail includes: All meals, drinks, sightseeing excursions, 24 hour room service, limited laundry service.
Castello Di Monte includes breakfast, morning tea/coffee and free transfers
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma - fully inclusive of all meals, local brand drinks, 2 scheduled camp activities including rhino experience, park fees, laundry and return airport transfers
Nkwali & Nsefu Camps - fully inclusive of all meals, local brand drinks, two scheduled safari activities daily, meet and greet at Lusaka and Mfuwe airports, camp transfers, park and conservation fees and laundry.
Anabezi Tented Camp - fully inclusive of all meals, local brand drinks, 2 scheduled safari activities daily (game drives, walking safaris, birding, canoeing, boat trips and fishing) park fees and laundry.
NB - All park fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Regional Flights: Livingstone via Lusaka to Mfuwe
Mfuwe/Lusaka/Lower Zambezi
Lower Zambezi to Lusaka
NB - All regional flights are correct at time of quoting but may vary up until time of ticketing.
International Flights - London Heathrow to Cape Town/Johannesburg to Livingstone/Lusaka to London Heathrow
Visas - Zambian visas can be bought upon arrival
Items of a personal nature
Staff gratuities
The above quotation is valid for 48 hours.
Quotations are based on the flight rates available today. The flight costs may change and are subject to availability. Availability can only be confirmed at the time of booking.
If you would like to read our full terms and conditions before booking then please follow this link:
Please fill in the Booking Form on the link below: You will need the Reference Number from the top of this Safari Proposal:
A 35% deposit will be due if your booking is more than 65 days prior to departure. The balance is due 65 days before your date of travel.
Debit Card or Bank Transfer are our preferred methods of payment. However we will accept the 35% deposit payment by credit card.
*Please note there is no charge for debit or credit cards as long as the card is issued in the UK. If the card is issued outside of the UK and Ireland there is a 2.5% card fee on each transaction for both debit and credit cards. **Please note we do not accept any Amex or Corporate Credit Cards whether issued inside or outside of the UK. ***Bank transfers from anywhere in the world attract no extra charges from Weekend a la Carte Ltd/Safari Addicts, but your bank may charge.
We would recommend you get your travel insurance soon after booking. Adequate travel insurance is vital for this trip for three reasons:
We recommend TAGCONNECT for insurance as they are travel specialists.
To get an instant quote for comprehensive cover please call Travel & General on 0845 345 3456.
Or use the online quoting tool:
South Africa - To say our holiday was fantastic in every respect would be an under statement and would not do justice for it. In every single respect and detail it was perfect from our moment of arrival until our sad departure home. Each and every venue we stayed in was excellent, friendly, hospitable and welcoming. At Kwandwe we finished with our unbelievable safari which was ... Read More
We had an absolutely wonderful time and can’t wait to return to Africa. Cape Town - The complimentary pick up from the airport was great. The agent was there to meet us off the airplane and she helped guide us through the airport to the taxi. We had one night at Mount Nelson hotel due to BA strike/flight changes. This hotel is just lovely - as is the afternoon tea. Would ... Read More
Namibia Self Drive We had an absolutely amazing time in Namibia and certainly packed a lot in to the relatively brief time we were there. The quality of the hire car, accommodation and meals booked was very high and all very much enjoyed. All the game drives were quite different and so we learnt or saw something new each time and without exception the guides were ... Read More
Namibia Self Drive
We had an absolutely amazing time in Namibia and certainly packed a lot in to the relatively brief time we were there. The quality of the hire car, accommodation and meals booked was very high and all very much enjoyed. All the game drives were quite different and so we learnt or saw something new each time and without exception the guides were very knowledgeable and personable.The kayaking trip with cape fur seals was a lot of fun. We had the good fortune to be driven to the lagoon by Craig, owner of the company, and he took a lot of time and trouble explaining about the flamingos, avocets, cape albatross and the other birdlife which we passed. The actual kayaking was very well organised, with much care taken to ensure that we all had the right clothing and equipment, and we were escorted by Craig and one other on the water to the area where the seals frolic in the sea and were encouraged to interact with them. Unfortunately, Craig said the seals were a little subdued because it had been fairly cold overnight and there had been a bit of a storm, but we all enjoyed it.
Each time we were moving on to new accommodation, I warned everyone that it could not get better, but every time it did, though the Fort at Onguma has to be the peak as it was totally sublime. We were assigned one guide, Victor, for each of the activities we did there and he was outstanding in his ability to identify birds and find the game. Ozondjou Trails was another highlight and the staff (Jackson, Mona Lisa, the chef, Moses and Big Matias, the guide) were all delightful and very welcoming.
One thing we would have welcomed were suggestions of places to stop for pitstops and refreshments during our journeys. As it happened, in addition to Solitaire, we managed to find some excellent coffee shops, but there were a couple of times when we failed to find a suitable stopping place.
The scale of the country is somehow increased by the gravel roads, but we were lucky as the four of us shared the driving, so no-one had to take on too much. I am not sure I would want to split the driving between just two of us over a fortnight.
We had a fabulous time – and have nearly 5,000 photos to prove it! Many thanks for helping us to achieve this wonderful trip, especially at relatively short notice.
Where to even begin to describe the trip we have just returned from?……..’WOW’ seemed to be the most used word!! Thank you so much for putting an amazing itinerary together for us. We now have a better understanding of what each ‘area’ involves and cannot wait to go back and explore some more - we are well and truly hooked! Despite not getting off to the best start (!) we are ... Read More
Where to even begin to describe the trip we have just returned from?……..’WOW’ seemed to be the most used word!!
Thank you so much for putting an amazing itinerary together for us. We now have a better understanding of what each ‘area’ involves and cannot wait to go back and explore some more – we are well and truly hooked!
Despite not getting off to the best start (!) we are grateful for your help in moving everything around at Vic Falls. The horse ride was fun and the owner of the stables (sorry name’s gone!) was really sweet arranging a driver and guide for us after the ride as we only had 2 hours to enjoy the Falls!!
Safari Club was excellent.
Throughout the entire trip transfers and flights were very efficient and seamless – it was a real treat to sit back and let someone else do the organising (that’s normally our job!!)
We absolutely loved Kwando! Staff were amazing, food and general comfort fantastic and the game viewing ridiculous! I think we had the most ‘fun’ at this camp.
Then onto Mapula Lodge. Once we had chatted through our ‘wants’ in terms of viewing, etc (making the most of the Delta) they could not have done anymore for us. Private drives, private dinner, always accommodating and always very friendly.
Only issue we had was being late to breakfast one morning because the lodge was surrounded by elephants!
This was definitely the most ‘relaxing’ camp……and had the best ‘view from a loo’ (the main throne room loo near the main lodge – photo attached!)
We also saw the most incredible birds. I remember telling you I wasn’t really in to birds…..well that’s changed!
The ‘time out’ here was truly next level – so beautiful and peaceful.
It seems very quiet at night now we are home – and we are already missing the sound of lions roaring, hippos ‘grunting’ and being woken by the dawn chorus.
We have given ourselves a problem – how do we better this holiday?!!!
So – thank you!
Visited Cape Town, Botswana & Zambia So what can one say about our trip but amazing and lots of pictures yet to be processed. We loved it from start to finish. We saw so much including a pride of 18 Lions at Lebala, Rhino, leopards, Elephants, Buffalo, Giraffes and so much more. Great meet at airport and transfer ok to wine lands as used a Mercedes without much AC. Only moan of ... Read More
Visited Cape Town, Botswana & Zambia
So what can one say about our trip but amazing and lots of pictures yet to be processed. We loved it from start to finish. We saw so much including a pride of 18 Lions at Lebala, Rhino, leopards, Elephants, Buffalo, Giraffes and so much more.
Great meet at airport and transfer ok to wine lands as used a Mercedes without much AC. Only moan of the entire trip. Guest house in Wine lands was To Die For and loved eating, cycling and late night drinking.
Great transfer to 12 Apostles and went straight to Table Mountain after arriving as lovely day. What a fantastic hotel and super staff. Good tour of the Cape and Seal Island was a great addition. Guide was good fun and kept us busy. We did pay for our lunch and cable car but that was only down to a simple error.
Transfer to Maun was great and flight gave us good food and a lounge so very happy. Good meet and greet
NO WATER on the Delta so lodge slightly struggled on what to do on Game Drives. Worst drought in 21 years but saw leopards and lions from the road.
Next Lodge was one of our favorites as relaxed and all drives went off road . Wow! Leopards and Lions so close to the truck that it was amazing, dead elephants and 100s of vultures, Towers of Giraffes and dazzles of Zebra. LBR till the cows come home and even started to get into bird watching.
Fantastic camp and managers. Will go back here.
Again great transfer on small planes and everything in place for us.
Chobe National park felt like Disneyland. Arrive and put on boat with lots of other people. Not inspirational. Fun at the bar with Cathy the bar maid who sorted us out super cocktails. Good room but no view of the water.
The morning drive was ok but saw nothing not even an elephant. Guide says you can only see elephants in the afternoon. Exited as we left the lodge as good transfer guy and found elephants on the was down to water and made sure we had lots of time finding elephants. Best part of the visit was the exciting transfer and driver. Easy move to Zambia from Botswana and Irish passport holders don’t have to pay a fee.
And then Tongabezi. WOW!
Met by Rudy the manager and then passed to our Valet Dadu. What a truly nice man and looked after us so well for our 5 days. Captain Felix who had us on the river every day and went cycling with me one morning, Godfrey our driver who looked after us at the Falls and all land transfers. The Rhino hunt was a great fun and spotted 5 Rhino. The food and Boathouse was amazing. We never moved to Nut House as Plunge pool is twice the dept and I was very happy in the pool at Dog House.
Such a moving visit to the village and school. Really made us think about lots of things.
So Well done and so pleased moved and excited about the entire trip.
What more can we say but thank you.
Travelled to Victoria Falls, South Luangwa & Lower Zambezi Just a quick note to say, Thank you for all your help to make our first safari a most memorable holiday for all the right reasons. It would be hard to fault or improve upon. Your expertise shone through the whole trip. Thanks again. Read More
Travelled to Victoria Falls, South Luangwa & Lower Zambezi
Just a quick note to say, Thank you for all your help to make our first safari a most memorable holiday for all the right reasons.
It would be hard to fault or improve upon.
Your expertise shone through the whole trip.
Thanks again.
Rachel and I had an absolutely fantastic honeymoon, I'm not sure where to start! Everything went seamlessly and the planning from your end really helped us to enjoy our honeymoon without any stress or worries. Rachel and I will highly recommend you and will definitely look to book another African adventure with you in the future. The accommodation at nThambo, Umkumbe and Avani was ... Read More
Rachel and I had an absolutely fantastic honeymoon, I’m not sure where to start! Everything went seamlessly and the planning from your end really helped us to enjoy our honeymoon without any stress or worries. Rachel and I will highly recommend you and will definitely look to book another African adventure with you in the future. The accommodation at nThambo, Umkumbe and Avani was stunning and each delivered on every level. We can assure you that this was a honeymoon, and experience, of a lifetime that we will never forget. The safari drives were brilliant with the opportunity to get very close to the ‘Big 5’, ‘Ugly 5’ and other stunning wildlife.
We thoroughly enjoyed the Sundown river safari, Victoria Falls and the chance to swim in the Zambezi river and take a plunge into the Devils Pool in Zambia. We didn’t want to leave and want to keep reliving the experience.
We arrived back home yesterday after an amazing time in Africa. What a stunning country, everyone so friendly & accommodating. All the staff at both lodges in South Africa made our stay so memorable an experience that will remain with us forever. The Avani in Zambia was also stunning got up close & personal with impala, zebra, mongoose, & resident crocodile. The baboons got a bit ... Read More
It would be very hard to rate our holiday anything but 10 it was fantastic and went really smoothly. Sindabezi was beautiful and we were very lucky to be given an upgrade to a lodge in Tongabezi for our last night, the accommodation there is out of this world! We loved Lebala and Little Kwara, the bedroom at Kwara looks tired in comparison, but the service was equally good and I believe they ... Read More
It would be very hard to rate our holiday anything but 10 it was fantastic and went really smoothly. Sindabezi was beautiful and we were very lucky to be given an upgrade to a lodge in Tongabezi for our last night, the accommodation there is out of this world!
We loved Lebala and Little Kwara, the bedroom at Kwara looks tired in comparison, but the service was equally good and I believe they are completely renovating it this June. In fact the customer service in Zambia and all 3 camps was consistently exceptional I can not thank the staff enough, wherever we stayed, for giving us such a great holiday.
Kath was really helpful too and very quick to respond to any concerns but the reason we went with you was because of Guy and Brianne’s recommendation, they recently went with you two years running and they convinced us it would be worth the money so they were great advocates, as we will be, if other friends are interested.
We had a fantastic time thank you and would rate your service 10! The newly refurbished Ngala Safari Lodge was amazing, very high standard of finish and the team were brilliant. Kirkman's Camp was excellent too, our ranger (Jarryd) was really good and highly knowledgeable and informative. Anantara Bazaruto in Mozambique was very good, the spa was fantastic with amazing views. Overall we ... Read More
Zimbabwe - September We had a truly wonderful holiday. It all worked out so well and was the perfect mix of relaxation, national park and river. We had a great selection of wildlife and some very near encounters which was exciting and terrifying. We were sorry to miss the Elephant Express but it was rather a near miss as it was the group the day before us who had the ... Read More
Zimbabwe – September
We had a truly wonderful holiday. It all worked out so well and was the perfect mix of relaxation, national park and river. We had a great selection of wildlife and some very near encounters which was exciting and terrifying.
We were sorry to miss the Elephant Express but it was rather a near miss as it was the group the day before us who had the derailment. We had a very hot, bumpy but safe ride into camp instead and were well looked after by the team.
I would like to add quite how much we all appreciated the dedication of the Camelthorn & Zambezi Sands guides and team. They were absolutely fantastic and went well above the call of duty to make it such a memorable stay.
Thank you Big 5 Safaris again for setting up such a great programme for us. We want to go back please!
Zimbabwe & Botswana - We had a wonderful time, everything went off perfectly. The accommodation was excellent and all the transfers and pick up just happened seamlessly ! We loved Victoria falls our guide was very knowledgeable . Our Riverboat stay was amazing , we even glimpsed a Leopard from the river bank plus Lions , hippos , crocs and many other animals. ... Read More
We had a wonderful time, everything went off perfectly.
The accommodation was excellent and all the transfers and pick up just happened seamlessly ! We loved Victoria falls our guide was very knowledgeable . Our Riverboat stay was amazing , we even glimpsed a Leopard from the river bank plus Lions , hippos , crocs and many other animals. The Safari lodge in Chobe was lovely and again we saw Lions and lots of Elephants , Zebra , Giraffe and buffalo.
We were amazed at how much we saw and did in 6 days.
Thank you for arranging such a wonderful time for us.
Zimbabwe & Botswana - We had an amazing time. The Zambezi cruise was very enjoyable and a great start to our holiday. The lodge at Victoria Falls was fabulous with great accommodation and lovely food. We saw plenty of animals visiting the water hole from our room giving us a taste of what was to come. Our transfer to Botswana and the Chobe Princess houseboat was well ... Read More
Zimbabwe & Botswana – We had an amazing time. The Zambezi cruise was very enjoyable and a great start to our holiday. The lodge at Victoria Falls was fabulous with great accommodation and lovely food. We saw plenty of animals visiting the water hole from our room giving us a taste of what was to come.Our transfer to Botswana and the Chobe Princess houseboat was well organised and we were lucky enough to get the cabin in the front with its own balcony. The trips out to the river bank were great and the guide was very knowledgeable and always made every effort to make sure we could see as much as possible and get as close as we could. On our second day out we saw so much. We were lucky enough to glimpse a leopard walking along the ridge, appearing whenever there was a gap in the bush. As well as the numerous elephants, crocs, buffalo, hippos, giraffe, zebra, impala, etc, we, again, were very fortunate to be around to see lionesses feeding on an earlier kill. And not forgetting the beautiful birds that can be seen everywhere.We arrived at our lodge in Chobe in time to settle in and have lunch before going out on our first game drive. The accommodation was again fantastic with wonderful views and everything we needed. I’m not sure how much other travellers see in the time that they stay but I felt we were extremely fortunate and what we saw far surpassed my expectations.All in all, it was a fabulous holiday which has left us with many wonderful memories of Africa and of the other travellers that we shared our time with. The venues were first class and there must be a great deal of organisation behind the scenes which enables everything to run so smoothly. I would certainly recommend your company and in fact I’ve already passed your details on to my friend who is very interested in going to Africa.Thank you for making this a holiday to remember.
I'd always wanted to go on safari since I was a child and when my son said he'd love to go on safari, completely unprompted, my wife and I made a decision there and then. The only problem was who to book with! We found The Big 5 Safari Company through a friend of a friend, and from the start it was clear their knowledge of Africa was extensive. Kath put together the most amazing ... Read More
We loved EVERY moment of our Self Drive in South Africa! The accommodations were excellent from start to finish and we had absolutely no complaints about the facilities, service and food at each one. Starting with the V&A Waterfront, it couldn't have been better located, right there in the thick of things in such an historic building. Next on to the Winelands and the lovely guest house ... Read More
We loved EVERY moment of our Self Drive in South Africa! The accommodations were excellent from start to finish and we had absolutely no complaints about the facilities, service and food at each one.
Starting with the V&A Waterfront, it couldn’t have been better located, right there in the thick of things in such an historic building.
Next on to the Winelands and the lovely guest house La Fontaine in Franschhoek. Here we were to find a completely different atmosphere,but one which was just as warm and welcoming. Breakfast was excellent!
At De Zeekoe we had a lovely room overlooking the gardens. Here we had a meerkat experience – up at half past stupid to watch a family of the little cuties in the middle of a field. It was amazing and we got some great pictures.
Laird’s Lodge truly lived up to the description in the booklet you sent me. We had such a wonderful stay there.
We had another relaxing stay in Addo and our visits to Addo Elephant Park were so productive in terms of photography.
Next we went to Kwandwe for what was the most exhilarating experience of my life. We could have spent the whole month there, not just 3 nights. The food was first class, the surroundings unbeatable and the staff are possibly its greatest asset. I am so glad that you offered the option to have our own vehicle, ranger and tracker for those 3 days. Yes, it was more expensive but, SO worth the extra money.
I have already recommended your company to friends and other photographers, as we were both highly satisfied with the service you provided for us.
We met the team at the New Forest Show and were really impressed with their knowledge of Africa and all matters safari. Katharine then helped us to plan a bespoke family holiday for four in South Africa within a pre-agreed budget. Katharine took considerable time to research ideas and incorporate our suggestions, but also ensured that we had an amazing holiday in some fabulous accommodation by ... Read More
We met the team at the New Forest Show and were really impressed with their knowledge of Africa and all matters safari. Katharine then helped us to plan a bespoke family holiday for four in South Africa within a pre-agreed budget. Katharine took considerable time to research ideas and incorporate our suggestions, but also ensured that we had an amazing holiday in some fabulous accommodation by double checking everything in advance.. We felt the overall service delivered was first class and certainly a cut above that offered by your typical travel agent. We would certainly use their services again for any similar holiday and recommend Safari Addicts to others seeking to plan the holiday of a lifetime. Many thanks again – The Marriage family.
Just returned from amazing trip to Victoria Falls, Botswana and Mozambique, including our first safari experience. Katharine worked tirelessly to ensure that we were happy with every aspect of our holiday and helped us navigate the vast choice of accommodation to select the right camps for us. The planning was excellent and everything worked perfectly. We would highly recommend The Big 5 ... Read More
Just returned from amazing trip to Victoria Falls, Botswana and Mozambique, including our first safari experience.
Katharine worked tirelessly to ensure that we were happy with every aspect of our holiday and helped us navigate the vast choice of accommodation to select the right camps for us. The planning was excellent and everything worked perfectly. We would highly recommend The Big 5 Safari Company – a tailor-made holiday that delivered above expectation experiences. Thank you all!
I just wanted to let you know what a wonderful trip you organised for myself and my husband in July this year. Our three destination trip worked seamlessly from pick up in Cape Town right through to our return. Our hotel in Cape Town was excellent and well located (The One & Only). The staff “on the ground” were excellent, especially in Cape Town and the excursions were ... Read More
I just wanted to let you know what a wonderful trip you organised for myself and my husband in July this year. Our three destination trip worked seamlessly from pick up in Cape Town right through to our return. Our hotel in Cape Town was excellent and well located (The One & Only). The staff “on the ground” were excellent, especially in Cape Town and the excursions were first class. Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge was awesome and delivered in every respect – would definitely return – great accommodation, a surfeit of wonderful food and fabulous game viewing from friendly and experienced team. Our trip was completed with a visit to Victoria Falls in Zambia where we stayed at the Royal Livingstone – the location was excellent both for the falls and all the activities in this region. Again the pre-booked activities did not disappoint and the hotel was luxurious. Thank you Big 5 Safaris – will be booking again and would not hesitate to recommend you to others.
I’ve just read your “Why travel with us?” statement and it has to be said you ticked all the boxes. Our special occasion was our honeymoon and you definitely applied the personal touch to the extent I referred to you simply as “Katharine” – not The Big 5 Safari Company - in all discussions at home. I have booked trips all over the world for the last 25 years and I don’t ... Read More
I’ve just read your “Why travel with us?” statement and it has to be said you ticked all the boxes. Our special occasion was our honeymoon and you definitely applied the personal touch to the extent I referred to you simply as “Katharine” – not The Big 5 Safari Company – in all discussions at home. I have booked trips all over the world for the last 25 years and I don’t think any one person has stood out like you have. The bespoke nature of our trip and some of the ideas and suggestions you came up with were truly inspirational e.g. Zambezi Sands. Discussions where you clearly captured our personalities of what would work and what wouldn’t were spot on and you clearly assessed us very well.
I would also like to share with you the note sent by Abercrombie & Kent in 2015, before I found your website: “We offer a similar range of accommodation to Audley and our prices should be broadly speaking in line. For a 14 night holiday with a week on safari and a week in Mozambique, I think the figure of £8k per person wouldn’t be too far wide of the mark so if you’re budget is closer to £4k per person, I don’t think we would be able to offer anything to match this budget from the accommodation that we choose to offer”. Suffice to say we did exactly what we planned to, add in some extras and you were still able to meet our budget whilst still staying in luxury … and possibly even the same places!
We will share some photos in due course but our honeymoon was truly memorable and Lisa and I would like to thank you for your efforts in making it happen. I have already started recommending Big 5 to my friends and family and we look forward to travelling with you again at some point.
What an amazing trip to Zimbabwe!! I loved every minute from start to finish. We had a great safari experience, saw a huge range of wildlife and 3 of the big 5! And Victoria falls is simply breathtaking isn't it? I can't imagine how much more ferocious it is during the high season. Staying in Bulawayo was also a wonderful experience, our host family were just so friendly and welcoming ... Read More
What an amazing trip to Zimbabwe!! I loved every minute from start to finish. We had a great safari experience, saw a huge range of wildlife and 3 of the big 5! And Victoria falls is simply breathtaking isn’t it? I can’t imagine how much more ferocious it is during the high season.
Staying in Bulawayo was also a wonderful experience, our host family were just so friendly and welcoming and just loved having us stay with them. Albeit underprivileged, they just get on with it and I suppose don’t know much different (especially the kids, who were all little rays of sunshine!).
Thank you so much for helping me plan the trip, it really was a great experience! If I ever do anything like this again I’ll be sure to come straight back to you.
We had a lovely time in South Africa - many thanks for organising - we loved all our locations. Chitwa Chitwa in Sabi Sands exceeded expectations in terms of accommodation and game viewing - saw the Big 5 on many occasions and much more ... Also really liked Elephant Camp and Victoria Falls was as spectacular as we had imagined. No complaints and no regrets - just great ... Read More
We had a lovely time in South Africa – many thanks for organising – we loved all our locations.
Chitwa Chitwa in Sabi Sands exceeded expectations in terms of accommodation and game viewing – saw the Big 5 on many occasions and much more …
Also really liked Elephant Camp and Victoria Falls was as spectacular as we had imagined.
No complaints and no regrets – just great memories!
Many thanks again, especially for the treat at our last camp to mark my birthday celebrations – much appreciated.
Firstly thanks to The Big 5 Safari Company for your assistance in managing the changes resulting from our flight delay. Unfortunately, due to our outgoing flight delay we lost a day at the start of the holiday and at the end effectively lost half a day due to significant problems confirming our connecting flights from Livingstone - none of which was the responsibility of Big 5 as we booked our ... Read More
Firstly thanks to The Big 5 Safari Company for your assistance in managing the changes resulting from our flight delay.
Unfortunately, due to our outgoing flight delay we lost a day at the start of the holiday and at the end effectively lost half a day due to significant problems confirming our connecting flights from Livingstone – none of which was the responsibility of Big 5 as we booked our own flights and I think next time we would ask Big 5 to do this for us!
That’s the bad news, the good news is that despite these problems we had a fantastic time. Victoria falls is simply spectacular and we did still manage to see the moonbow on the second evening and on the river safari we managed to not only see our first elephant, but managed to collide with a hippo under the water – all of which was great fun.
Our accommodation was very comfortable and of high quality. Waking up to zebras on the lawn is the norm there but doesn’t half leave you delighted and bemused.
At the Zambezi Sun in Livingstone and at Camelthorn Lodge in Hwange National Park we were really impressed by the welcoming attitude of all the staff we met. All of our drivers for the transfers were courteous and very helpful. The only thing we are inclined to “complain” about would be that we found the transfer long and a little uncomfortable and would have preferred to take the recently introduced rail car through the park.
At Camelthorn our primary hosts/guides, Sibs and Vusa, were not only experienced and knowledgeable guides, but engaging and warm individuals which made for fun and interesting conversation over dinner.
As safari ‘virgins’ we did not really know what to expect from the drives, but quickly learned. By that I mean that there are no guarantees about which animal species you may see and it can vary significantly between drives. Despite the best efforts of our guide, we did not manage to find leopard or cheetah, but apart from this, during the short time we were in camp, we saw a good variety of animals and were thrilled by the experience.
We thank you Katharine for all of your early advice in selecting our venues as they all turned out to be great and the experience has left us with some great photos and memories. If it were not for family commitments in 2016 we would be looking to book our next safari now and will not hesitate to contact The Big 5 Safari Company for our next two location safari.
We had an amazing time in Zimbabwe and I would like to thank you for everything you did in organising this for us. Our accommodation in both Hwange and Victoria Falls were lovely. I know you had some input as well into helping to organise the renewal of our wedding vows – a complete surprise to me but such a special day, so thank you again. Khulu Ivory Lodge was perfect, we all ... Read More
We had an amazing time in Zimbabwe and I would like to thank you for everything you did in organising this for us. Our accommodation in both Hwange and Victoria Falls were lovely. I know you had some input as well into helping to organise the renewal of our wedding vows – a complete surprise to me but such a special day, so thank you again.
Khulu Ivory Lodge was perfect, we all absolutely loved the place, unfortunately animal sightings weren’t quite as much as we had hoped for but I think this may have been the time of year (as it wasn’t the real dry season the vegetation was still quite high so difficult to spot animals). The team at the Lodge were fantastic, we couldn’t have asked for more, it really is a perfect setting.
So many special memories that will stay with us forever.
We were safari virgins ... we had however long harboured the thought that one day, when circumstances were right and finances permitted, we would visit the Okovango Delta in Botswana. Both of us having our 60th birthday made the time right. In a flush of enthusiasm, my husband Googled madly and came up with a selection of 'budget' truck based safaris. Not what I had in mind! I ... Read More
We were safari virgins … we had however long harboured the thought that one day, when circumstances were right and finances permitted, we would visit the Okovango Delta in Botswana. Both of us having our 60th birthday made the time right.
In a flush of enthusiasm, my husband Googled madly and came up with a selection of ‘budget’ truck based safaris. Not what I had in mind! I Googled madly and came up with The Big 5 Safari Company.
How fortuitous, they put together a memorable itinerary, heeding our request for small camps in remote locations. From first contact through to detailed planning, the trip itself and the follow up, they were professional, efficient, and not least, willing and able to design a trip to meet our expressed desires and aspirations.
We travelled from the arid plains of the Central Kalahari (Tau Pan Camp), to the enchanting Okavango (Pom Pom Camp), to the lush and fertile Linyanti River (Lebala Camp) rounding off with some R & R at the stunning Falls (Victoria Falls Hotel).
All 3 camps offered stylish and characterful accommodation with friendly, attentive staff and professional management. The guides and trackers were awesome in their knowledge of the wildlife, game, birds, nature and culture. We learnt so much from them.
The range and quality of the experience was fantastic. Everything worked like clockwork. We thought this would be a one off high end experience but no … we booked a return trip within weeks of coming back! No excuse needed this time.
Thank you Big 5 for such a brilliant experience and in particular Katharine Hunt.
Guy and Brianne Perkins
Kevin this is our 4th safari with you and as ever the level of detail in the itinerary you put together for us made the trip very special. From the private meet and greet in Johannesburg to the unexpected bush dinner we had an unforgettable time. Experiencing the Kalahari for the first time certainly gave us a new perspective on Botswana, one of our favourite countries. Please pass our thanks on ... Read More
Kevin this is our 4th safari with you and as ever the level of detail in the itinerary you put together for us made the trip very special. From the private meet and greet in Johannesburg to the unexpected bush dinner we had an unforgettable time. Experiencing the Kalahari for the first time certainly gave us a new perspective on Botswana, one of our favourite countries. Please pass our thanks on to all the lodges and we look forward to going to South Luangwa on our next trip!
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