Africa

• Insider Tips for South Africa

  
  My Favorite Lodges

  

  Selati Pool | Photo Credit: Sabi Sabi Selati Camp

  

  Safari Deck | Photo Credit: Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

  The Sabi Sabi Lodges are located on a private concession in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. This private reserve has been offering amazing safari encounters for 35 years. Clients also have a choice of four very different and luxurious accommodation options. They have a romantic, vintage feel at Selati Camp. The truly traditional feel of today at Bush Lodge. The more intimate Little Bush Lodge and Earth Lodge symbolize a new era of lodges for South Africa! A stay at any one of these lodges will offer superb, personalized service with a phenomenal close-up encounter.

  

  Suite Exterior | Photo Credit: Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp

  

  Fire Pit | Photo Credit: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

  Tintswalo Safari Lodge is located in the Manyeleti Game Reserve. This little gem offers guests totally luxury in a magical setting. Each of the suites has a different African explorer theme bringing in a colonial feel with an extra touch of elegance. Guests are often treated to a view of elephants wandering into camp for a drink of water. You can even have an elephant visit during lunch or tea!

  

  Exterior | Photo Credit: Tintswalo Safari Lodge

  

  Safari Dining | Photo Credit: Tintswalo Safari Lodge

  Some Quick African Tips

  • Safaris are a major part of any itinerary to South Africa, therefore, it is important that visitors understand they are watching wild animals. Rangers will always give you a briefing before heading out on your first game drive, so be sure to listen and adhere to their guidelines!
  • Never call out to the animals to attract their attention and remain seated at all times.
  • It is always a good idea to take a small backpack to keep your camera, sunscreen, bug spray and other essentials.
  • Always listen to your rangers!
  • No visit to Cape Town is complete without a trip on the Cable Car to the top of Table Mountain. Try to visit first thing in the morning and always check to see if the cable car is running as the weather could affect this. Since it can get windy at the top, be sure to bring some type of jacket. And don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are excellent!

  

  Anne Ferguson

  Howzit! I was born in Durban (South Africa), where I started my travel career in 1998. I worked for one of the largest Inbound Tour Operators in Southern Africa before moving to North America in 2006 to work for Swain Destinations. Apart from traveling, I love getting to know people from different walks of life and learning about history and cultures.

  Insider Tips for South Africa was last modified: July 2nd, 2018 by Anne Ferguson

  May 23, 2018 • Africa, Anne Ferguson, Articles, Destinations, Property Highlights, Travels • Views: 3579

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• A Look Into Our Africa Office

  
  We sat down with Deidre, the operations manager for our inbound Africa office, to ask a few questions about our Africa office. Deidre has worked in the travel industry for some time now and has gained invaluable knowledge and experience customizing itineraries for clients visiting Southern Africa. Deidre has traveled around South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe while experiencing amazing wildlife, culture and food. We’ve asked Deidre a few questions so you can get to know our Africa team better.

  What is your background?

  “I was born in Cape Town, South Africa, where I currently reside. I have been in the travel industry for 13 years. I’ve worked with Swain Destinations for 2.5 years.”

  

  Cape Town, South Africa | Photo Credit: The Silo

  What is your most memorable time meeting with clients?

  “My most memorable time meeting with a client was when I met her on arrival at Cape Town International Airport with roses. This trip was to celebrate her milestone birthday and it happened to be her birthday when she arrived in Cape Town. I wanted to do something special for her. The client was pleasantly surprised by the gesture and appreciated it greatly.”

  What is your favorite restaurant in Cape Town?

  “First, most clients would like to dine at The Test Kitchen, although my favorite would have to be Kloof Street House. Something I have done recently with my family was an informal “farm-to-picnic basket” lunch at Boschendal Wine Estate. We got to relax with picnic baskets, hammocks and beanbags with spectacular views of the mountain range.”

  

  Kloof Street House | Photo Credit: Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel

  

  Mountain Picnic | Photo Credit: Savanna Private Game Reserve

  What are some insider tips when traveling to South Africa?

  “Explore Cape Town by Sidecars – this is a phenomenal way to see the beautiful city and breathtaking views as you meander on Chapmans Peak Drive towards Simontown. Enjoy some local fish and chips for lunch, then make your way back to the city. On the way back, be sure to stop at the Constantia Wine Estate and enjoy a wine tasting before returning to your hotel.”

  

  Constantia Wine Estate | Photo Credit: Groot Constantia

  

  Vineyard | Photo Credit: Groot Constantia

  

  Constantia Grounds | Photo Credit: Groot Constantia

  What is your favorite thing about working for Swain Destinations?

  “I thoroughly enjoy working for Swain Destinations, as they have a purpose – a mission – that everyone understands. With that, every employee can tell you the role that he or she plays in achieving that purpose. That purpose is to tailor once-in-a-lifetime trips for clients and make the journey as memorable as possible.”

  

  Segway Tour | Photo Credit: Swain Destinations

   

  A Look Into Our Africa Office was last modified: October 18th, 2017 by Swain Destinations

  October 16, 2017 • Africa, Articles, Destinations, Interviews • Views: 2504

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• Kenya Changes You

  
  “Africa changes you…”

  You’ll hear it over and over. After my recent trip to Kenya, I’ll be the first to add the phrase to my discussions when I’m talking about any future bucket list. Put Africa on your list, pack up and go! I’m in the travel business and I even had my doubts. There’s vaccinations, the distance, my family asking if it was safe, etc. However, you step off the plane to elephants staring at you. Then the village folk in the most beautiful flowing outfits greet you. Finally, you experience your first sunset with a Baobab tree in the distance and all the worry washes away. The effort will seem insignificant compared to what awaits.

  

  Plane | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  Stepping Off the Plane

  My plane landed along a dirt runway in the middle of Kenya bordering the Samburu region and national park. My first safari experience was spent at Sasaab Lodge. This accommodation was amazing. There was nothing but open air, a small plunge pool to cool off after a day of exploring, and an ice chest with plenty of beverages. These beautiful villas had no electricity so it was just you and nature – with a view of the river where elephants would drop by at sunset for their evening drink just as you were pouring yours. It was a toast to Kenya.

  

  Exterior | Photo Credit: Sasaab Camp

  

  Elephants | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  Discovering Kenya

  When you think Africa, you imagine sweeping vistas with a lion perched on a rock overlooking his lands or maybe you picture elephants and giraffes in the distance. We had all of these experiences and it gave me chills as I turned each corner in the safari vehicle. Although the wildlife is stunning, what really affects you are the unexpected, special moments that happen while traveling through this beautiful country. It feels as though you’ve been given a gift, an experience to cherish. You develop a newfound appreciation for the simplicity that life can have and the wonder of nature.

  

  Giraffes | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  One of my favorite moments was visiting a local village near the lodge. A close friend suggested I take one of the retro-Polaroid cameras. The ones where you press the shutter and a little whirring sound happens before spitting out a photo beginning to develop. After giving it a few shakes, you have your picture! Imagine humbly sharing the technology with locals in a third world village. It was amazing.

  

  Photo of Locals | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  I wanted to share this with the beautiful, happy people of this small village. After gathering them around for a group picture, I handed them the actual photo so they could keep it. Tears welled up in their eyes as they saw themselves in full color for the first time. Another photo was taken of a mother holding her small child and the reaction was so beautiful. This is where I knew the saying was true, “Africa changes you.”

  

  Locals Witnessing a Photo | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  

  Mother and Son | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  Visit to a Local School

  We visited a local school next. It was a bit out of the way because they don’t like too many travelers passing through, but we didn’t mind the journey. We visited a local third grade class and their principal had them ask us questions. It’s not every day strangers come to visit.

  

  Third Grade Class | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  Their questions ranged from our favorite soccer players and different foods to what children like to do in our country. Then, one little girl raised her hand and quietly asked, “Can we sing for you?” Sure enough, the entire class started belting out the African version of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” in unison! It was a humbling experience and one I still fondly carry with me.

  Final Words

  This was just a taste of my time in Africa. We then ventured to the Maasai Mara region where you’ll find indigenous tribes and plenty of animals. But that story is for another time. The people and places are magical. The wildlife is magnificent and everywhere! From the majestic elephants pushing through huge bushes to the cats that are either laying around or on the prowl for their next dinner.  So, I must repeat, “Africa truly does change you.”

  

  Leopard | Photo Credit: Cory Payton

  

  Sunset | Photo Credit: Kenya Tourism Board

  

  Cory Payton

  I grew up on a farm in the Central Valley of California which is fondly known as the raisin capital of the world, yes my dad harvested for Sun Maid. Finishing college I spent leisure time working at a ski resort and soon leading tours with Contiki Holidays where the travel bug really hit. Moving into sales of my favorite countries like Australia, New Zealand and Africa, Swain Destinations was a perfect fit and I’ve enjoyed being a part of this family owned company for 12 years. As I always say, ‘the journey is the reward’.

  Kenya Changes You was last modified: September 20th, 2017 by Cory Payton

  September 18, 2017 • Africa, Cory Payton, Travels • Views: 3027

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• Experience Southern Africa

  
  Here at Swain Destinations we have expert consultants who not only sell our destinations, but have visited and, in some cases, hail from those exact regions. One of these expert consultants is Smruti Smith. Smruti was born in Livingstone, Zambia and has been in the travel industry for over 18 years. She is one of Swain Destinations’ Africa specialists who is passionate about travel, meeting new people and learning about different countries and cultures. We’ve asked Smruti a few questions below to not only give knowledge on Africa itself, but also an insight into Smruti’s experience.

  

  Okavango Delta, Botswana | Photo Credit: Smruti Smith

  What has been your favorite destination to visit?

  “Southern Africa captured my fascination and I must say that it is my favorite destination to visit. To narrow it down, because Southern African has many countries, I enjoyed South Africa, Botswana and Zambia the most.

  South Africa is truly a magical and diverse destination that is perfect for the visitor looking to explore wildlife safaris and get to know the local culture. Just north of South Africa is Botswana, an area that is one of the richest wildlife regions in all of Africa. Finally, Zambia is the land of the legendary African walking safari, the wild Zambezi River, breathtaking lakes and wetlands, a profusion of birds, abundant wildlife, and raw, pulsating wilderness, all in one friendly country.

  Southern Africa is my favorite destination because the people are just incredible. They are full of smiles and great hospitality. You feel welcomed from the minute you land. The culture, food, wine, sightseeing, and the amazing wildlife are what make these destinations unique.”

  

  Cape Town, South Africa | Photo Credit: South African Tourism

  

  Botswana | Photo Credit: Nile and Yangtze Sanctuary Retreats

  

  Victoria Falls, Zambia | Photo Credit: Livingstone Adventures

  Where did you stay?

  “I have stayed at many hotels in Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Grace, Twelve Apostles, One&Only and Table Bay. I highly recommend staying in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront area as a first timer in Cape Town, as you easily have access to shops and restaurants. In Botswana, I stayed at all the Wilderness Premier camps. Then in Zambia, I stayed at the Toka Leya and the Royal Livingstone. All of my accommodations exceeded my expectations!”

  

  Exterior | Photo Credit: Cape Grace

  

  Twelve Apostles | Photo Credit: Leading Hotels of the World

  

  Lounge | Photo Credit: Toka Leya Camp

  

  The Royal Livingstone | Photo Credit: Sun International

  How was the food?

  “The food in Southern Africa is very fresh and nothing is processed. I love their seafood dishes! Any visitor must try Cape Malay food in Cape Town, along with typical South African Braai (which is known as BBQ in the United States). If you are a wine and spirit lover, I highly recommend Pinotage and Inverroche Gin. The cuisine found in Southern Africa did not disappoint!”

  

  Chocolate Lava Cake | Photo Credit: Cape Grace

  

  Grilled Fillet of Beef | Photo Credit: Cape Grace

  

  Royal Livingstone High Tea | Photo Credit: Sun International

  Favorite Experience?

  “Being on safari has been the best experience by far. Staying in camps where you have no access to wi-fi is definitely an adjustment! I never thought I could survive without the internet or being in constant contact with my friends and family, but I highly recommend anyone who visits to disconnect. You want to embrace it all, and really become one with nature. It’s a truly reviving feeling. Although it’s hard, one can really appreciate the wildlife, people in the lodges, and your life slowing down for a moment in time.”

  

  Vumbura Plains, Botswana | Photo Credit: Smruti Smith

  Finally, what advice would you give?

  “If you are traveling to Africa for the first time, I recommend visiting Southern Africa. Making this your first stop gives you a little taste of everything Africa has to offer. To get the best experience, I would do 10 to 12 days, making stops to Cape Town, Safari and Victoria Falls. It’s hard to choose just a few places to visit, but these destinations are a must!”

  

  Smruti Smith

  I was born in Livingstone, Zambia and have lived in the USA for over 30 years. I have been in the airline/travel industry for 18 years. I previously worked in the Airline industry, and for another Africa specialist company. I have always been passionate about travel, meeting new people and learning about different countries and cultures. When I am not working, I enjoy travelling with my husband, spending time with family/friends, and working out.

  Experience Southern Africa was last modified: May 23rd, 2018 by Smruti Smith

  August 28, 2017 • Africa, Interviews, Smruti Smith, Travels • Views: 3364

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• Elephants outside your room at Savute Elephant Camp, Bostwana

  
  Savute Elephant Camp offers guests the chance to view some of Africa’s greatest treasures right from their room. Continue Reading

  Elephants outside your room at Savute Elephant Camp, Bostwana was last modified: June 17th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  May 23, 2014 • Africa • Views: 10311

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• The Dunes of Namib

  
  The Namib sand dunes are a dramatic landscape of shifting sands. Some of the sand dunes are as high as 980 feet high and 20 miles wide. The dunes are part of the world’s oldest desert, some 43 million years old, which stretches 1,200 miles along the Atlantic coastline of Angola, Namibia and South Africa. Continue Reading

  The Dunes of Namib was last modified: June 23rd, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  April 18, 2014 • Africa • Views: 5958

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