AFRICAN GOLF SAFARIS

Golf safaris in Africa are the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation; we've ensured that there's plenty of flexibility too, but above all it's about the 18-hole experience.

Truly superb golf courses await the golfer in Africa: South Africa is home to several of the world's finest golf and safari resorts, as is Mauritius. Stunning links and parkland courses, often the centre piece of an exclusive hotel resort, are situated in South Africa's top destinations such as Sun City, the Kruger National Park and Cape Town, and along some of Mauritius' most scenic stretches of coastline.Enjoy all the challenges and rewards of golfing under a blue African sky. The scenery is fantastic, the course facilities first-class and accommodation is easy to arrange. But the success of our Africa golf safaris lies in our ability to combine a first-class golfing experience with what Africa is most famous for: big game safaris. Many of the recommended courses are located close to national parks and game reserves, and malaria-free Big 5 safaris are also available, ideal for families - golfers or not!



Add on a beach holiday too: Mauritius has long been a superlative beach and golf destination and we've also selected great courses on South Africa's beautiful coastal masterpiece, the Garden Route, as well as in sub-tropical KwaZulu-Natal where the greens reach down to the Indian Ocean.

Golf in Africa goes far beyond the flawless greens of Sun City: the continent now has over 800 courses, making it easy to combine a golfing vacation with a safari or beach holiday - or both! Add exclusive resort accommodation to breathtaking courses and it’s hard to find a reason not to tee off in Africa – especially when links courses tend to overlook palm-lined beaches and exotic birdsong fills the deep rough.

Take the guesswork out of deciding where to play with our Top 5 golf destinations in Africa. Each delivers superlative golfing with added attractions to enrich your experience: fine food and wine, Big 5 safaris and family-friendly beaches. Did I mention the weather?

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AFRICAN GOLF SAFARIS

Tuesday, December 08, 2015

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AFRICAN GOLF SAFARIS

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Capturing the rich essence of the ‘Spice Island ’ , accommodation in Zanzibar tends to be a blend of the relaxed and the exotic.

There are many excellent hotels, boutique establishments and fully inclusive resorts situated on the island’s famous beaches but several fine hotels can also be found in heart of fascinating Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historical capital. Often combined with a Tanzania safari, Zanzibar is nevertheless a holiday destination in its own right. Dive or snorkel teeming coral reefs, swim with dolphins, explore the nooks and crannies of Stone Town, embark on a Spice Tour or simply laze on the beach - with the right choice of Zanzibar accommodation, all of this and more is possible. If you’re looking for something a little m ore remote and unique, then why not try one of our handpicked lodges on Zanzibar’s neighbouring atolls? Pemba Island, Mafia Island and private Mnemba Island all offer exclusive, luxurious and intimate accommodation, perfect for honeymooners or romantics.

WHY ZANZIBAR

The name alone is likely to conjure up images of spice markets, palm-fringed beaches and white-sailed dhows on a turquoise sea – and happily the reality doesn’t disappoint. Lying only a short distance off the Tanzania coast but at the crossroads of Africa, the Middle East and Asia, Zanzibar has long been at the centre of the Indian Ocean experience in East Africa and a Zanzibar holiday is a sensory experience par excellence.

Go on spice tours, taste local dishes and walk the cobbled streets of the capital’s old quarter Stone Town, now a World Heritage Site buzzing with colourful back-street markets and local flavours. And then of course there are the Zanzibar beaches: perfect for anyone who simply wants to enjoy a lazily luxurious beach vacation - Zanzibar and its outlying islands are home to some of the finest beaches in East Africa as well as a number of its best dive sites.

You won’t want for somewhere to stay either: one of the world’s most romantic honeymoon destinations, Zanzibar has accommodation that ranges from luxury beachfront cottages to exclusive boutique hotels and elegant spa resorts; parents on the other hand will be delighted by Zanzibar’s family-friendly hotels and safe-swimming beaches.

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AN EXOTIC AFRICAN ISLAND EXPERIENCE

Tuesday, December 01, 2015

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AN EXOTIC AFRICAN ISLAND EXPERIENCE

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  Ultimate Africa Magazine

ISSUE 40-MAIN FEATURES

When daydreaming of powdery white sands and warm and inviting waters, Zanzibar is no doubt one of the exotic destinations that spring to mind, with such an abundance of Islands, Hotels and Safari experiences we decided to give you a taste of it all.

Issue 40 Main Features

Tuesday, December 01, 2015

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Issue 40 Main Features

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MYTHS & LEGENDS

As the waters of Zambezi thunder Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe stands smiling bonded by its mysteries and myths. The same ore or shadow, which propound the country, was the same will used in the countries drive for independence.

With myth and mystery. The lake is associated with the River God, Nyaminyami. The mythical god is said to have been enraged by the displacement of his people, which led to major difficulties during construction of the dam. In revenge around 80 people lost their lives when storms from the Zambezi River collapsed Kariba. Even the sun shunned construction of Kariba. Subsequent soaring temperatures forced workers to house their tools in cooling buckets. Displaced animals were rescued from the Lake in what is now known as Operation Noah!

African mythology of the local Tonga tribe of the Zambezi Valley states that Nyaminyami the River God who lives in Lake Kariba is believed to be a serpent-like creature. He is said to be about three metres wide, but nobody dares to guess at his length. Legends have it that the water stains red when he swims past. Chief Sampakaruma saw him on two occasions many years ago, but the river god has been in hiding since the white men arrived in the country.

According to African mythology he lived under a large rock close to the present day Kariba dam wall. No tribesman would venture near it those few who did were sucked down with their canoes in the whirlpools and never seen again. They called the rock Kariwa, the “trap” and hence the name of the lake, Kariba.

The rising water of lake Kariba covered the rock Kariwa and it now lays 30 metres below the surface annoying Nyaminyami. The tonga people also believe that Nyaminyami is married and that the building of Kariba Dam wall would seperate him from his wife, this would anger him greatly and the river god threatened the peace of the valley.

City dwellers had mocked the stories of Nyaminyami, the river god but by 1958 the laughter had turned to chilled apprehension. Especially for those working on the project of building Kariba dam wall. Survey work on the proposed dam wall began in the late 1940’s. On the night of the 15th February 1950 a cyclone from the Indian Ocean swept up the valley. Such a thing had never been heard of in this landlocked, stable land. Fifteen inches of rain, driven by a hurricane, fell in a few hours.

The river rose seven metres that night. A number of villages were swept away. When rescue teams finally managed to reach the area three days later, the putrefying bodies of antelope and other animals were seen hanging from the tops of trees. The survey team had perished in a landslide.
Work on the dam began in earnest in 1955 – but on Christmas Eve that year, an unprecedented flood stormed down the gorge and washed away the foundations of the coffer dam and the recently constructed pontoon bridge. The flood peaked, receded, and then peaked again.

Read the full article from our October Issue

NYAMINYAMI – THE RIVER GOD

Saturday, November 07, 2015

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NYAMINYAMI – THE RIVER GOD

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 ROVOS RAIL

Recapture the romance of a bygone era when privileged travellers experienced the mystery of Africa in an elegant fashion, with Rovos Rail’s luxury train expeditions from this Capital park Station in Pretoria

In a world where everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere fast train travel is often thought of as a crowded, time-consuming way to get to a destination. But the best way to see any country is via the railway.. Enjoy taking a virtual luxury train travel at its best.

ROVOS RAIL HIGHLIGHTS

South Africa is home to the only privately owned railway station and the Rovos Rail Company operates its luxury train expeditions from this Capital park Station in Pretoria. There are two trains that the Rovos Rail Company restored to their classic opulence with each train accommodating 72 passengers. Each suite is spacious with contemporary conveniences. The Royal Suites offer space that consists of half a carriage with décor and comfort being its main focus. Top chefs ensure that each meal rivals any restaurant in the world. Each meal is served on fine china, silver service, and white linen. Guests are expected to dress accordingly and why not, these accommodations are fit for a king.
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences.

With discreet and friendly service, five-star cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration. In a series of journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the sub-continent’s greatest destinations from Cape Town at its tip to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, from scenic splendours as diverse as the game reserves of Mpumalanga to the Victoria Falls, from the desert landscapes in Namibia and the stark beauty of the Karoo to the lush cane fields of KwaZulu-Natal and the magnificent Garden Route along the Cape south coast.

The Pretoria- Cape Town journey ends in the beautiful Mother City of South Africa offering the much loved Table Mountain as well as Devil's Peak and Lions Head. Highlights along the way include a visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein; a traditional preserved Victorian Village dating back to 1890 offering an impressive museum on the platform. A stop is also made in Kimberley providing an opportunity to enjoy a city tour and a visit to the Mine Museum and the world's largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole.

The Rovos Rail offers world-class luxury and style; two beautifully restored Classic trains, each catering for a maximum of 72 passengers. The Rovos Rail offers the most spacious and luxurious train suites in the world. The train offers a Victorian-feel of a bygone era where lords and ladies dined in style. Traditional décor and furnishings enhance the atmosphere of elegance and grandeur in the Dining, Lounge and Observation cars.

For more information and bookings contact Rovos Rail on +27 (0) 12 315 8242 or email them on reservations@rovos.co.za. Also you can visit their website on www.rovos.com

READ MORE FROM OUR OCTOBER ISSUE

LUXURY EXPERIENCE WITH ROVOS RAIL

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

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LUXURY EXPERIENCE WITH ROVOS RAIL

LIFESTYLE MAIN FEATURES SERVICE GUIDE

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The Benefits of

Buying Travel Insurance

Passport? Check. Airline tickets? Check. Foreign exchange? Check. Travel

Insurance..? If you’re planning an overseas trip sometime in the near future, be sure to add travel insurance to your preparations checklist.

One of the most important elements to note when travelling overseas is travel insurance. “Travel insurance should be bought in conjunction with purchasing your air tickets. While cover for most of the benefits will only be activated from the date that you depart on your trip, cover for the possible cancellation of your journey starts from the date that you purchase your travel insurance policy,” says the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA).

There are different kinds of travel insurance: insurance for leisure travel (holidays); for youth travel (when travelling abroad for study or casual work purposes, 16 to 30 years); senior citizens (citizens over 70 years of age); and for business travel. Travel insurance is extremely important as many things can go wrong on a trip. You could be injured in an accident, fall ill and need medical attention, or even worse, require hospitalisation. This could become very expensive and, depending on the treatment needed or the duration of the required treatment, costs could run to hundreds of thousands of Rands. In addition, you could lose personal items or have to cancel the entire trip, or part of the trip, due to illness. Travel insurance aims to cover these unforeseen circumstances. 

“There are, however, some limitations and conditions, as travel insurance cannot cover absolutely everything that could go wrong, so be sure to read through the terms and conditions so you understand clearly what is and what is not covered,” the AA advises. The maximum duration for cover on a leisure or youth policy is one year, while business and senior cover is only provided for up to 92 days. The premium for travel insurance depends on the type of travel insurance and level of cover you select, as well as the duration of your journey. Costs could range from R360 for the most comprehensive policy covering a week's travel, to around R940 for the most basic policy to cover a month long trip.

All countries are covered, except where a travel warning has been issued by the US, UK or Australian governments advising against all but essential travel. Travel warnings are issued to advise of security threats in specific countries. If a travel warning has been issued before a policy is bought and the warning is not lifted by the time the traveller visits the area, medical cover for injuries related to a security or terrorist incident will not be covered.

If however, a warning is issued after the policy is bought and a journey needs to be cancelled, the traveller can claim on the policy for any non-refundable portions paid for the travel ticket and accommodation. If a warning is issued while the traveller is in the specific area, they will still be covered for medical emergencies, but should try and leave the area within seven days of the warning being issued.

“When looking for the right cover, check the limits of cover provided, for example under cancellation and loss of baggage, to ensure that you will be adequately compensated for any loss that you may incur, should you need to submit a claim. This will give you the peace of mind needed before and during your trip,” the AA concludes.

Travel insurance can be purchased online from the Automobile Association of South Africa’s website. If you need any assistance, contact the AA Travel Insurance call centre on 0861 900 801. For more information please visit www.aa.co.za.

TRAVEL NEWS: TRAVEL INSURANCE

Friday, October 09, 2015

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TRAVEL NEWS: TRAVEL INSURANCE

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ULTRA LUXURY VILLA

26 SUNSET AVENUE LLANDUDNO is a five star, ultra luxurious and exclusive property (Villa / Hotel) nestling on the slopes of the Atlantic Seaboard next to the Sandy Bay Nature Reserve in the prestigious residential suburb of Llandudno, Cape Town. 26 SUNSET AVENUE LLANDUDNO CAPE TOWN provides guests with 180 degree views over the ocean, the sound of waves crashing a mere130m away and the opportunity to indulge in cocktails and canapés, reinforcing the experience of “Barefoot Luxury on Sunset Rocks”.

The private Villa provides well appointed accommodation with butler service on hand from the moment guests arise until they turn in for the night.

Guests awake each day to spectacular sea and mountain views from each of the 6 identical suites before enjoying our “champagne” breakfast, with hot breakfasts made to order by the personal chef. Guests can be overwhelmed by a state of bliss while watching the sun set from the 80m main deck.
Two suites are situated on the upper level of the villa, with the remaining four suites on the pool deck level. Spacious and light flooded, the suites open up onto large private sun decks and feature floor to ceiling glass doors that completely retract into the walls, exposing the uninterrupted, magnificent sea views.

All six suites with their bathrooms are designed to frame the incredible sea views. Two suites are situated on the upper level of the villa, with the remaining four suites on the pool deck level. Spacious and light flooded, the suites open up onto large private sun decks and feature floor to ceiling glass doors that completely retract into the walls, exposing the uninterrupted, magnificent sea views.

The Atlantic Seaboard and the surrounding area provide ample leisure attractions. Whether you are into nature, sport, sight seeing, entertainment, culture, fine dining or wine, there are countless activities on offer. Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and two of them are right on our doorstep!

Whether it’s sunbathing, surfing, swimming or sunsets you are looking for, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Apart from the “usual suspects” (Table Mountain, Robben Island and the V&A Waterfront), there is a range of weird and wonderful places not to be missed in and around the Mother City. Here is a small selection of our favourites.

Awake each day to spectacular sea and mountain views from each of the six identical suites. Be overwhelmed with a distinct feel for the finer things in life.

Up to twelve guests are accommodated in six identical suites measuring up to 65 square metres, with the first two situated on the upper level and the remainder on the pool deck level. The generous bathrooms feature modern fittings, under floor heating and separate oversized baths and rain showers, heated towel racks, luxurious toiletries.

READ FULL FEATURE FROM OUR CURRENT ISSUE

26 SUNSET AVENUE LLANDUDNO

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

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26 SUNSET AVENUE LLANDUDNO

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PRESIDENTIAL VILLA

Constance Le Prince Maurice is An exclusive deluxe hotel on a 60-hectare peninsula in the tranquil northeastern corner of Mauritius. Unparalleled luxury and design provide a stunning setting in which to relax, enjoy the superb cuisine, be spoilt by the service and pampered at the spa. The brilliant white sandy beach fronts a sheltered patch of turquoise sea.

Constance Le Prince Maurice enjoys an idyllic location on the north-east coast of Mauritius. It is 15 minutes from the airport by helicopter and 35 km from the capital Port Louis. Constance Le Prince Maurice is situated on 60 hectares of private land, which is completely unspoiled, sheltered from the prevailing winds and ensuring maximum privacy for its guests.

Its tropical gardens consist of rare and luxuriant vegetation and the calm turquoise lagoon blends perfectly with the fresh green hinterland and the secluded beaches of brilliant white sand. A natural fish reserve situated in the western part of the hotel adds to the uniqueness and natural beauty of the location.

There are 89 suites and villas, with 64 Junior Suites, 12 Family suites, 12 Villas, and one Princely Suite. All rooms are in single story thatched chalets, well spaced out, and very private, with opulent silk fabric and varnished wood decor, and spacious marble bathrooms. Junior Suites are 70m2, Family suites are 86 m2, Villas are 130m2 with a private plunge pool, or on stilts overlooking the lagoon, and the Princely Suite at 350m2 has two private pools and three terraces

Individual villa type with thatched roof. Nine villas offer direct beach access and a heated private pool. 3 villas (without private pool) are on stilts overlooking the natural fish reserve. In addition to the standard facilities the suites comprise of a bathroom with a whirlpool bathtub, separate living room with dining/seating area, guest shower/WC.

Constance Le Prince Maurice U SPA

The elegant U Spa at Le Prince Maurice is set in a tranquil corner of the gardens and centered on a stone courtyard with a calming heated pool. Relax, rejuvenate, detox, rehydrate or simply enjoy – the choice is yours. Our highly skilled team is at your disposal to help you decide which treatments are best suited to your needs. Each guest receives a Spa Experience Card, so we can keep a note of your wellness goals and preferences, and customise your treatments accordingly.

These a wonderful range of U Spa Classic massages to choose from, including facials and body treatments using our aromatic natural products inspired by plants from the Indian Ocean, or pick from the collections we’ve made exclusively available at Constance Le Prince Maurice. In the Sisley collection, exotic Phyto-Aromatic treatments use the power of aromatherapy and massage rituals from all over the world to harmonize body and mind, while the Brice Nicham collection features treatments devised by celebrity podiatrist Brice that combine medical chiropody with glamorous and luxurious pedicures and manicures.

READ FULL FEATURE FROM OUR CURRENT ISSUE

-Le Barachois restaurant overlooks the lagoon and the mountains beyond. It
is reached via a wooden boardwalk, offering a unique floating ambience and tremendous fusion cuisine.
-The Archipel restaurant overlooks the pool and beach area, featuring
Mauritian infl uenced cuisine and a 15,000-bottle wine cellar. Le Beach Deck
is a lunchtime beach restaurant.
– Two 18-hole championship golf courses are a free ten-minute shuttle bus
away. Green fees are free to guests.

CONSTANCE LE PRINCE MAURICE

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

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CONSTANCE LE PRINCE MAURICE

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White sand and blue waters

The Palms Resort is a sanctuary for those in search of tranquility…a place to stimulate the senses and experience the very best of the Island of Zanzibar. The magical Island where the fusion of Arab, African and European cultures has created a pace of life, a style of cuisine and a colorful tapestry of architecture, heritage, myth and magic that is found nowhere else in the world.

On the untouched, tranquil South Eastern coast of Zanzibar lies this boutique property that combines effortless elegance with Zanzibar sophistication. This collection of six beautifully designed villas offers luxurious comforts and amenities with personal attention throughout your stay. Each villa features a sophisticated interior composition of hand carved furniture and beautiful fabrics, where dark grained wood floors extend and the decor is a unique marriage of colonial grandeur and traditional design.

 The Palms provides a range of beautifully appointed facilities reflecting the warmth and character of the local architecture. The elegant colonnaded terrace of The Plantation House leads into a spice inspired bar, onto an antique elegant dining room where fabrics change daily from rust colored silks to crisp white linens. An exotic cuisine is creatively presented reflecting the spices and flavors of the Island, fusing just caught with freshly picked.

For more information contact The Palms Resort on:

Phone:+254 720 538148 +254 733 777172

Email:palms@thezanzibarcollection.com

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THE PALMS RESORTS

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

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THE PALMS RESORTS

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Bay Chic is an exclusive Cape Town luxury villa quietly languishing on a sunny hillside, overlooking one of Cape Town’s finest beaches, Camps Bay Beach. The elegant interior design offers the ultimate in luxury accommodation in an upmarket location.


The villa enjoys glorious views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Table Mountain and Lions Head. And on top of all of this, there are breathtaking ocean panoramas (if you come between July and December, you may even see the Southern Right whales!).

Bay Chic is a five-star, six-bedroom, lavishly appointed villa where nothing is done in half measures. Take a moment to admire the beautiful gardens, created in harmony with their natural surroundings and complete with a large, salt-water pool. As the sun starts dipping into the sea, why not pour yourself a drink and relax in the Jacuzzi, where you can gaze towards Lions Head or the Atlantic Ocean, truly a spectacular sight, making Bay Chic the perfect setting for an array of events.
Just a short stroll leads you to the beach and into the heart of vibrant Camps Bay, where you will find beachside cafes, cosmopolitan restaurants and bars.
Bay Chic is the perfect venue for business or pleasure. There is plenty of space and a child-friendly bedroom with bunk beds. If you need to work, there is super-fast, wireless broadband throughout the building and the peaceful conservatory/library, with its classic leather chairs and specially designed sun-catching roof, is a fine place to work.

BAY CHIC SLEEPS UP TO TWELVE GUESTS.
One bedroom has separate 3/4 extra-length luxury twin beds, and four have double king size extra-length beds. The 6th bedroom is ideal for children as it has bunk beds. Four of the bedrooms are en-suite, one has a separate bathroom and the bunk bedroom shares a bathroom.

There are luxurious spa baths in two bathrooms and “Rain dance” showers in the others.

When the weather becomes a bit chilly there are cosy gas fireplaces in the TV lounge and bedroom. And if a member of your group is suddenly very quiet, chances are they will be found in the upstairs library getting lost in the large collection of books!

The modern kitchen is fully equipped with all mod cons, including a designer espresso maker and integrated water filters. Three large French doors open onto the outdoor marble deck, creating a wonderfully light space that makes cooking and eating a pleasure.

The outdoor entertainment area has ample seating and BBQ / braai facilities (you can choose from a 7-burner elite gas machine or a traditional wood fire). Soak up the sun on comfortable sun loungers, and take a dip in the stunning heated pool and Jacuzzi.

Night swimming is bliss in the electrically heated salt water pool, especially on warm summer nights after a long day on the beach. Or indulge in the comfort of the Jacuzzi overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

For more information contact Bay Chic on 021 300 8941

READ THE FULL ARTICLE FROM OUR CURRENT ISSUE

BAY CHIC LUXURY VILLA

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

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BAY CHIC LUXURY VILLA

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THE KHOISAN PEOPLE OF THE NORTHERN CAPE: SAN HUNTERS

© South African Tourism

The Khoisan people of the Northern Cape are descended from two different tribes. An amalgam of the original San hunter-gatherers and the later-arriving KhoiKhoi, they were virtually annihilated by subsequent settlers. But the Khoisan culture lives on through some of the most compelling rock art on Earth.
Khoisan is a term used by physical anthropologists to distinguish the aboriginal people of southern Africa from their black African farming neighbours.

The original San hunter-gatherer groups lived on this land for about 100 000 years before the arrival of other black people and European settlers. When the pastoral KhoiKhoi appeared 2 000 years ago, they saw people similar to them in physical appearance, but with a different culture. They called these elders of the land ‘the San’, which means ‘people different from ourselves’.

SAN HERITAGE

San heritage lives on through rock art and scientific studies of these gentle hunter-gatherers. The San Bushmen of South Africa were the country’s original inhabitants, and very likely the ancestors of all humanity. Today remnants of these fascinating people can still be found in the Northern Cape.

The rich Bushman or San heritage is that of the original people of southern Africa. It is even believed that the genes of the San Bushmen of South Africa predate the rest of humanity, making them our original ancestors.

Nomadic bands lived on the land for approximately 100 000 years before the arrival of other groups. When the pastoral Khoikhoi appeared 2 000 years ago they saw people similar to them in physical appearance, but with a different culture.

CULTURE AND HERITAGE TOURS

History and culture tours are the perfect beginning or end to any business meeting or conference and will help visitors gain insight into the complex history and cultures that make South Africa what it is today. Visit ancient landscapes, explore cultural villages and learn more about the layers that make up the fabric of South Africa’s society.

History and culture tours are not only for history buffs, but for anyone with a keen yearning to know more about South Africa’s interesting past. 
Why not start at the very beginning with a visit to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site where the famous skull of Mrs Ples was found.  

From there make your way to the Mphebatho Museum in Soulspoort (on the border of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve) and find out more about the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela traditions. 

History and culture pre- and post-tours in Limpopo province may include a visit to the famous Modjadji Cycad Reserve – where you will hear all about the legendary Rain Queen of Lobedu. For something a little different make your way to Thohoyandou where the Venda people live and investigate local traditions such as the domba (snake) dance and the myths and legends of Lake Fundudzi and the Vondo Forest (both sacred sites). 

KwaZulu-Natal is the heart of the Zulu Kingdom, and guided tours offer insights into Zulu culture. The province is also home to the largest Indian population outside of India, so visit Grey Street in Durban and learn about the local Indian community. Make sure you try out the famous Durban ‘bunny chow’ while you’re at it. 

History and culture activities in the Northern Cape will expose visitors to ancient San culture and traditions, and the various aspects of Basotho culture are worth exploring when visiting the Free State province. The Basotho Cultural Village in the Eastern Free State is one of the finest cultural villages in the country.  

The Eastern Cape is the heart of Xhosa culture and this province is known for its struggle history – which is not surprising as Nelson Mandela was born here. The Western Cape offers a wealth of opportunity for history and culture lovers – visit the Castle of Good Hope, Robben Island, the District Six Museum or the Bo-Kaap Museum… and that’s just on day one. 

History and culture tours offer so much for the traveller seeking a deeper insight into modern-day South Africa and may well inspire your next business gathering.

Who to contact

Maropeng Visitor Centre (Cradle of Humankind)
Tel: +27 (0)14 577-9000
Email: info@maropeng.co.za
Cape Town and Western Cape Information Centre
Tel: +27 (0)21 405-4500
North West Province Tourism
Tel: + 27 (0)18 397-1500
Bushman Council Office
Tel: +27 (0)78 129 6668
Email: bushmancouncil@khomanisan.com
Northern Cape Tourism Authority
Tel: +27 (0)53 832 2657/2643
Email: northerncapetourism@telkomsa.net

 

READ FULL FEATURE FROM OUR CURRENT ISSUE

CULTURAL FEATURE: PEOPLE OF THE NORTHERN CAPE

Saturday, September 05, 2015

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CULTURAL FEATURE: PEOPLE OF THE NORTHERN CAPE

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Grande Roche Hotel is situated just a short stroll from the town of Paarl. From this central base, visitors can enjoy a wide number of activities, exploring the valley on foot, by bicycle, on horseback, or from a hot air balloon. There are also wonderful golfing estates in the area.

With facilities that accommodate up to 120 delegates, Grande Roche Hotel offers the ideal conference and meeting venue away from the commotion of the city. The hotel’s capable team takes care of all event arrangements.

Grande Roche’s location and ambience offers couples a truly historic and unique setting in which to host an elegant wedding reception. Along with its private chapel and manicured gardens, the hotel boasts a professional functions and events team that will ensure that wedding days are carefree events. All told, the hotel offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of daily life, while delivering on a promise of service excellence in every respect. 

For further information and bookings call +27 21 863 5100 or visit www.granderoche.com

READ THE ARTICLE FROM OUR JUNE ISSUE

LUXURY THE HEART OF THE WINELANDS: GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL

Thursday, June 18, 2015

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LUXURY THE HEART OF THE WINELANDS: GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL

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Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga Lodge - An Ethnic Luxury Experience


Experience  I hope that this mid-year edition of the Ultimate Guide to Africa takes you all the way to your dream destination as the June Issues offers a variety of experiences in both destinations and culture. Our Cover feature the luxurious Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga Lodge, one of the Kruger National Parks hidden gems North of Mpumalanga.

Staying in the regions we explore the Shangaan culture through the Shanganna Cultural Village. The Shangaan Tripe is one of the biggest indigenous groups in the area which has a deeply rooted sense of heritage and tradition it still continues to practice.

Our travel experience this month takes us into the wilderness of the South Luangwa National Park gives you some isight Puku Ridge Camp which offer diversity in plant, bird, and animal life as well as luxury safari accomodation at Puku Ridge Camp.

Go ahead…make this month a special one with our birthday issue. remember to downlaod the magazine on your desktop of mobile device…

JUNE 2015 ISSUE - HOYO HOYO TSONGA LODGE

Sunday, June 14, 2015

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JUNE 2015 ISSUE - HOYO HOYO TSONGA LODGE

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THE PERFECT ESCAPE….A tranquil space, the ultimate Winelands escape

Nestled between majestic mountains and overlooking the vineyards of Stellenbosch, the Estates incredible views provide the perfect backdrop to its outstanding restaurants, state-of-the-art winery, exclusive Lodges,exuberant landscaping, destination Spa and luxury boutiques.

The luxury Winelands experience at Delaire Graff Estate, a world-leading destination for wine, art and hospitality is unraveled in an setting designed with the discerning global traveller in mind, savour breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Stellenbosch Valley.

The founding of Graff Diamonds in 1960 by Laurence Graff marked the start of an astonishing journey spanning over five decades. Throughout its rich history, Graff is said to have handled more diamonds of notable rarity and beauty than any other jeweller, and to this day continues to inspire and excite the world’s most discerning clientèle.

An avid collector of modern and contemporary art, a world leader within the diamond industry and an equally devoted philanthropist, Laurence Graff opened the doors to Delaire Graff Estate in 2009. Having transformed the Estate into an extraordinary luxury destination – The Jewel of the Cape Winelands – nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Stellenbosch Valley.

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DELAIRE GRAFF ESTATE

Friday, May 15, 2015

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DELAIRE GRAFF ESTATE

DESTINATION EXPERIENCE MAIN FEATURES

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South Luangwa Valley, Zambia

The South Luangwa Valley in Zambia is one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas. Famed for its excellent opportunities for observing lion, leopard, elephant and other big game, the remote and unspoiled part of Zambia was the scene of a very special project undertaken 20 years ago.

In April 1994, two much loved young adult leopards were released in the South Luangwa Valley by a young game ranger named Graham Cooke. Graham had been living with the leopards in the South African lowveld for a full year before he decided to return Boycat and his sister Poepface to the wild in the Valley.

Graham pitched a small and very secluded tented camp on a remote island on the Luangwa River for the last stages of the cubs’ rehabilitation and it was here that Boycat and Poepface tentatively ventured into the wilderness of their new home.

Joining the cubs on daily walks to familiarise them with the new environment, Graham braved some of the area’s most dangerous animals. After about a month Boycat and Poep were ready to leave the safety that the small camp provided and crossed the river into the National Park to start their life in the wild. For Graham, it was time to let go…READ MORE

MY LIFE WITH LEOPARDS SAFARI

Friday, May 15, 2015

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MY LIFE WITH LEOPARDS SAFARI

EXPERIENCE MAIN FEATURES

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