Small intimate lodge, with excellent service, Stanley Safari Lodge is a uniquely designed resort offers couples a luxury safari experience. Bordering the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and Victoria Falls (that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO), Stanley Safari Lodge is an ideal spot for a couple to begin exploring Africa.

Stanley Safari Lodge has just 10 private African-style cottages, each with its own plunge pool. It is able to give you an unmatched level of entirely personalized service. You can feel the breeze when you wake up in the mahogany bed or relax in your private stone hot tub – best way to make your stay a memorable one. You can dine outdoors under the stars, in the privacy of your suite, in the wine cellar or even in the infinity pool.

Stanley Lodge is a perfect starting point to discover the nature with your own African safari. The Victoria Falls and its surroundings offer a wide variety of activities. From bungee jumping, jet boating, safari, canoeing, fishing, photography birding, and day tours to elephant back rides or walking with lions. The Zambezi offers some of the best Rafting in the world. A lunch cruise or a sunset cruise is a more relaxing way to enjoy the beauty of the mighty Zambezi River. And most importantly – the helicopter flight over the breathtaking gorges of Victoria Falls – don’t forget the camera.

The nearby Chobe National Park is home to the world’s largest elephant population, which represents a third of all African elephants. Only very few places in the world offer you the possibility to ride on the back of an African elephant, offers a unique way to interact with the largest mammals on earth.

 
 Price Range  -  per person per night from $330 to $590.

Pristine white beaches, breathtaking views overlooking the blue waters of the warm Indian Ocean, natural beauty, sandy dunes, solitude…this is a true island paradise. Indigo Bay is an exquisite resort, situated on the largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique. The resort offers world-class island accommodation providing the perfect island holiday. All resort’s chalets are constructed of natural materials to blend harmoniously with the surroundings.

Bazaruto is one of premier scuba diving destinations in Africa. The coastline is home to five of the world’s seven marine turtle species and the world’s largest roseate terns. Divers are able to see over 100 species of coral, thousands of tropical fish species, five kinds of dolphins, four whale species and sharks. Activities include island walks, horse back riding, and islands drives in a Land Rover to explore this intricate eco system. The water sports including: diving, fishing, snorkeling and sailing.

Mafia is a sleepy untouched retreat from the real world, and a slice of the old Swahili Coast, where people go about their lives simply and traditionally. It is part of Spice Islands, but is governed from the mainland. It is a cluster of one main island – 48 km long and numerous tiny ones, and is now the site of the largest marine park in the Indian Ocean, with fine corals. Photo by: booniekathrin

For a small island like this one, the sea rules. Every imagine form of boat is crafted locally – from large ocean going dhows to smaller masha or fishing boats or canoes. The main way of life is fishing and the waters are rich for both fishermen and divers. Coconuts and cashews are key cash crops, but the price of coconuts on the world markets has fallen in recent years and fishing has become more commercially viable. Photo by: booniekathrin

Mafia is also emerged as the striking raffia mats that the women of the island weave, often plaiting as they stroll along. This is an under-developed place, and the infrastructure is very poor – there is only electricity around the main tourist areas and very few houses have running water. Most locals get around on foot or bicycle. Photo by: DirectorUzi

Mafia has seen Portuguese, German and British occupation and this history has resulted in shifting mixed population. Photo by: booniekathrin

When to go: July to October and December to March. Population: 40,801. How to get there: Small aircraft from Dar es Salaam or by road from Dar es Salaam to Kisiju and then boat to Mafia. Photo by: wayne bremser

Lying in the Gulf of Guinea, Bioko is a mountainous volcanic island still populated by Bubi people, who speak a Bantu language brought over from mainland Africa. Set in tropical rainforest, this boot-shaped island is 70 km long and 32 km off the coast of Cameroon. Bioko has more species of rare monkeys than any other place in Africa; of seven species living on the island, four are among the continent most en dangerous island. Photo by: John & Mel Kots

The Bubi clans still account for most of the human population, but given Bioko’s colourful past this is now mixed with Spaniards, Fernandinos and immigrants from Rio Muni, Nigeria and Cameroon. In colonial times it was known as Fernando Po, and under the Africanization policy of dictator Masie Nguema Biyogo, it was renamed Masie Ngueme Biyogo Island. Photo by: ianmichaelthomas

The capital city of Bioko is Malabo, which sits at the northern end of the island on the rim of a sunken volcano. Despite being a capital of Equatorial Guinea, this is a pretty poorly developed place with limited paved roads. There are few tourist attractions, but on the densly forest slopes a new world awaits. Photo by: John & Mel Kots

When to go: Average temperatures of 25 degrees and annual rainfall of 2,900 mm make this an onerous climate. To avoid the rainy season go between November and April. Population: 130,000. How to get there: Fly to Malabo. Ferries to Malabo from Douala and Bata. Photo by: Podknox

Off the eastern shores of Lake Malawi lies Likoma Island and its smaller neighbour Chizumulu, making up a tiny piece of Malawian territory in Mozambican waters. Likoma has remained largely untouched since Scottish missionaries discovered in the 1880s and it became the headquarters of the University Mission to Central Africa – Livingstone’s mission. This led to the islands being retained by Malawi when the lake was divided politically after World War II. Photo by: Jondice

Likoma commands breathtaking views of the mountains and wilderness of Mozambique, just kilometers away. Likoma’s main town is overshadowed by the mighty Cathedral of St Peter, built in 1903 with elegant stained glass and carved soapstone. The rest of the island is simpler – mainly grassland scattered with mango and baobab trees. Photo by: firesika

Lake Malawi covers a fifth of the country’s total area – about 590 km long and 85 km wide. Usually gentle by nature, winds from the north and south can whip the lake up into a frenzy. Below the surface the lake bubbles with fish and fishing villages along its shores reap the benefits. The best and easiest way to get around Likoma is on foot. At the southern tip of the island, beyond the boabab plains, lies a crescent – shaped beach of the finest golden sand, framed by mango trees. The island is rich in history and also in silence. Photo by: Jondice

When to go: Best to visit in the dry season from late April to November. Mat to August are cooler and dry, but September and October can get hot and humid. Population: 9,000. How to get there: Flights from Lilongwe or boats from the port of Nkhata Bay. Dhows cross between the two islands. Photo by: Jondice

Known to the Ancient Egyptians as Abu or Yabu – meaning elephant – Elephantine Island is truly ancient site resting as it does at the First Cataract of the Nile and creating a natural boundary between Egypt and Nubia. It is said that Khnum – the ram-headed god of the cataracts, dwelled in caves beneath the island and controlled the waters of the Nile. These days the southern tip of the island holds the ruins of the Temple of Khnum. Up until 1822 there were also temples to Thutmose III and Amenhotep III on the island, but the Ottoman government destroyed them. Photo by: .Angeli

Elephantine is delicate island, steeped in ancient history and blessed with significant artifacts. Transported instantly back in time, you hike under banana trees and date palms through colourful Nubian villages with narrow dusty alleyways and mud houses, painted or carved with crocodiles or fish. Photo by: monopthalmos

On the edge of the island is one of the oldest Nilometers in Egypt – a stone ‘yardstick’ used to measure the height of the River Nile. It was last reconstructed in Roman times and was still in use as late as the 19th century. Its 90 steps, leading down to the river, are marked with Hindu – Arabic, Roman and heieroglyphic numerals and  inscriptions carved deep into the rock during the 17th century can be seen at the water’s edge. Elephantine Island is green oasis of calm – lapped by the turquoise waters of the Nile and clinging quietly to its exotic past. Photo by: Templar1307

When to go: Very hot between June and August (daytime temperature around 40 degrees). So December and February are great if you hate the heat. The other months of the year give warm days and fewer crowds. Population: 2,000. Getting there: Motor launch or felucca from Aswan; plane, train or boat from Cairo. Photo by: gabindu

Durban is the 3rd largest city in South Africa. Blessed being right on the warm Indian Ocean it is surrounded by miles of golden sandy beaches. The subtropical climate provides more than 200 sunny days a year, which offers a huge variety of outdoor activities such as canoeing, surfing, diving and sailing.

Durban is one of the most surf world-class spots cities in the world. The city also hosts to many international sporting events, ranging from golf, and surfing world champion shops, to cricket world cup. Home to South Africa’s only surfing museum, Durban also got Kings Park, which is a large stadium where many big rugby matches are held.
 

Cultural attractions: Zulu cultural villages to visit, township tours and visits to mosques or the beautiful Temple of Understanding. Durban has number of fantastic shopping complexes that offer a wide variety of options. Visit the bustling Victoria Street market to pick up a bargain or head for the city hall which houses an art gallery and natural science museum. Durban is also very cosmopolitan and after dark, offers range of nightlife activities, ranging from elegant restaurants and bars to trendy nightclubs.

Mchenja Bush Camp is a seasonal luxurious bush camp on the banks of the Luangwa River, Zambia. Mchenja means ebony tree and is definitely one of the perfect destinations to enjoy a walking safari. The camp has combined stays at the true safari experience with the ultimate in luxury. Set amongst massive ebony tress with lovely views of the river the Luangwa Valley has been regarded as one of Africa finest wildlife reserves.

Mchenja consists of five stylishly designed tents on raised platforms under thatch. The central area is focused around a large plunge pool, looking over the Luangwa River, which houses the bar and lounge. The rooms are incredibly luxurious, with free standings baths, outdoor en suite shower and inside bath. 

The setting of the camp is incredibly spacious offering guests the opportunity to stroll around camp or simply relax under the shade of a tree, right on the banks of the Luangwa. Game drives and walking tours safaris are offered. Days are punctuated by succulent lunches and dinners as well as tea just before the evening safari. They are generally lasting between 3 and 5 hours and are led by a fully qualified guide. Then unwind with some South African wines, or even some of the rarest champagnes.

2009 Rates: $600 – $700
2010 Rates: $580 – $650
Closed 10 Nov to 31 Jan & 1 Apr to 20 May

This concert hall is designed by Santiago Calatrava, which is known for such landmarks as the City of Arts (Valencia), the Montjuic Communications Tower (Barcelona) and BCE Place (Toronto). The auditorium is located on the waterfront in the port area of Santa Cruz, Tenerife and connects the city to the ocean, creates a significant urban landmark. The concert hall features the architect’s signature wing effect – a single wing that seems to enfold the building without covering it entirely. 

The complex contains of 6,741 m² auditorium and administrative building with a public plaza and parking below. The auditorium includes two concert venues. The main hall seats 1,800 with features a stage area 14 m deep and a proscenium 15 m high.  There is also a chamber music hall with seating for 400. The architect’ superb site: click here

Halfway up the Mozambique coast lies a chain of five islands making up the Bazaruto Archipelago. Form from sand deposited by the Limpopo River, fine beaches and coral reefs come naturally; and having long been a national park, so does the wildlife. Bazurato, Benguerra and Magaruque are the largest islands, with Santa Carolina and finally Bangue coming in on the small side. Photo by: André Pipa

Thanks to their protected status and relative isolation from the ravages of war, nature has been free to flourish here. Bazurato Island itself is 37 km long, and there gaudy pink flamingos strut the tidal flats, while large Nile crocodiles lurk in the inland freshwater lakes. The west is cloaked in grassland and thicket while the east coast is built entirely of impressive sand dunes. Photo by: yobosayo

Banguerra is about 11 km long and its blend of forest, savanah and wetlands provides rich pickings for local wildlife. Cashew nuts are native to the island and grow mainly on the seaward side. Photo by: yobosayo

Wild orange trees and sisal trees abound, as do mlala palms – the leaves of which are used in the waving of mats, baskets and hats. Nature lovers, sun worshipers and water sorts enthusiasts alike are drawn there. It may be said of other places, but this is a true tropical paradise with clear turquoise waters and endless palm-dotted beaches. Everyday you can snorkel and surf and run coral pink sand through your fingers. There are no roads, no shops and no tourist attractions, just the nature and the lovely everyday sun. Photo by: Brad Hunter Surrey Vancouver BC

When to go: Year-round but avoid the cyclone season in February. Little rainfall between April and November. Population: 3,500. How to get there: Flights into Viklankulo with connections onto the archipelago. You should know: The locals use the husks from the harvested cashews to make very intoxicating liquor. Photo by: darrenornitz

Near the town of Howick, 24kms north of Pietermaritzburg, the Umgeni river plunges 300ft over the Howick Falls. According to local legend, Inkanyamba which is a giant serpent-like creature resides in the pool at the bottom of the falls.

The Howick falls are easily accessible for everyone. The Zulu people called the falls KwaNogqaza, which means “Place of the Tall One.

Below the Howick Falls is the Umgeni Valley Project, a 650ha reserve owned and managed by the Wildlife Society of Southern Africa. The reserve contains more than 200 species of birds, as well as giraffes, zebras, wildebeests and many species of antelope.

For the very brave, there are the KARKLOOF CANOPY TOURS, ABSEILING AND ROCK CLIMBING.

The Cape Grace hotel is located at Cape Town’s Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and built on one of the old quays, South Africa. It was rated Worlds Best Hotel by Conde Naste a few years ago!

Each room is custom-designed with unique and refreshing decor to reflect the beauty, and elegance that Cape Grace is famous for. All 122 guestrooms and suites offer space and privacy, with French doors inviting the mountain and maritime views.

The hotel offers balconies, cable television, and minibars; rooms also include refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, and bathrobes.

Amenities: Business Center, Concierge, Disabled Access, Fitness Room, Swimming Pool, Spa/Massage, Meeting Facilities, Babysitting, Restaurant, Fireplace, Whirlpool Bath.

Waterfront Restaurant offers a blend of Mediterranean, Asian and local dishes in a contemporary and relaxed setting.

56-foot yacht – Spirit of the Cape, is available for tailor-made charters along the Cape’s magnificent coastline.

The Tsingy de Bemaraha is among the best National Park to visit in Madagascar. Situated 60-80 km inland from the west coast in the northern sector of the Antsingy region of the Bemaraha Plateau, north of the Manambolo River Gorge.

The Reserve comprises of karstic landscapes and highly dissected limestone peaks. You’ll discover some of the most inhospitable terrain on earth, to the world of forest canyons, caves, karren and mangrove that lies beneath, to the interesting animals.

Located 70 km from Diego Suarez, not far from the Reserve of Analamera, Red Tsingy are the result of erosion, which over time carved these coloured forms, which are unique to Madagascar.

Less well known about the Tsingy is the vast cave network beneath it. This network of underground caves,streams and rivers is part of the reason for the Tsingy in the first place.

There are plants, insects, reptiles and mammals which have adapted themselves to life in the Tsingy. So far recorded are 53 species of bird, eight of reptile and six of lemur.

This national Park came under the auspices of Madagascar’s National Association for the Management of Protected Areas (ANGAP) and is classified a Natural World Heritage by UNESCO!

Tugela Fallsis the second tallest waterfall on the planet. With a total height of 3,110 feet (948 meters). The Falls is located in the  Dragon’s Mountains  in the Royal Natal National Park in KwaZulu- Natal  Province, Republic of South Africa.

There are 2 trails to the Falls. The top of Mount-Aux-Sources and starts at the Sentinel car park at Witsieshoek via Phuthadjhaba from where it is a relatively short climb to the top of the Amphiteare. Or you can reach the bottom of the falls after a relatively short hike of about five miles by way of the Royal Natal National Park of South Africa.

The Gorge Walk to the base of the Tugela Falls: From Tendele Camp, proceed down to the Tugela river, where the main Gorge path will be reached. 

Made up of five major tiers. The water is pure and safe to drink above the falls. It looks more like a water.

At 600 m high above sea level, the Kasbah du Toubkal Hotel looks out over surrounding villages and majestic mountains. It is located in the High Atlas Mountains, only 1.5 hours drive of Marrakech, Morocco. Originally built in the 1940’s it was totally rebuilt in the 1990’s. The hotel is combination of hostel and hotel which provides a comfortable mountain refuge in the stunning setting of the beautiful Toubkal National Park.

Definitely it is a place for those that love nature adventure and mountain hiking. The Kasbah du Toubkal isn’t accessible by car. You must park your car in the village of Ismlil and walk through the town past a long strip of stalls and onto a dirt trail that leads up the hillside to the Kasbah. Your luggage is carried up by donkeys.
 

The hotel is a product of a Berber and European partnership. The pleasant en-suite rooms – newly built in the gardens – are decorated with lots of rugs and Berber crafts, giving them a traditional ambiance. The food served is traditional, with many tagine and coucous dishes.

With exceptional views, The Kasbah du Toubkal is not a hotel in the traditional sense. The Berbers making it less a hotel, and more an extension of the hospitality they would offer in their own homes.