Botswana and Cape Town
Wilderness Safaris
12 day / 11 night from $16,060
This high end itinerary combines two iconic areas of southern Africa; Cape Town, and Botswana. Start out with 2 nights at the luxurious Fairlawns Boutique and Spa to relax and recover from the long flight and jet lag. Afterwards the fun really begins starting at Mombo, one of if not the best camp for wildlife in all of southern Africa. Follow that with a trip to northern Botswana with another exquisite camp in Kings Pool. Between these two camps you should have ample opportunity with predators and plains game. End the trip in style in Cape Town at Belmond Mount Nelson.
Itinerary
Arrive in Johannesburg and spend 2 nights enjoying the city at the 5 Star Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa. Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest and most vibrant cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. The old city is a multi-cultural mixture ultra-modern skyscrapers, excellent museums, art galleries and organized tours of historical and political interest.
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The shopping is Southern Africa’s best, the many restaurants cater for all tastes and the nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.
Travel
Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport you will be met by a Menzies representative, who will assist you through passport control, baggage collections and customs and on to arrivals. From the arrivals hall, you will also be assisted to the transport area where you will head to Fairlawns. Scheduled road transfer from JNB to Fairlawns.
Accommodations
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Set among lush acres of landscaped gardens you'll find this resort an urban sanctuary right in the heart of Johannesburg. With close attention to detail and exceptional service, Fairlawns creates an intimate atmosphere where some of the globe’s most vibrant personalities converge. The chic, upscale suites are individually decorated in varying themes ranging from Eastern influence to French provincial, each featuring every desired modern amenity. The hotel also caters to a variety of culinary tastes with an array of elegant dining experiences to choose from. Fairlawns is also renowned for its spa treatments.
Rooms
Villa Suite
Again in true Fairlawns style, each room is individually decorated, echoing the original ideas of the Courtyard and Villa suites, yet with a modern contemporary twist. Unlike the Courtyard Suites, the 84sqm Villa Suites relate to some aspects of South African history and honour such distinguished men and women as Emily Hobhouse, Jan Smuts, Nelson Mandela, Harry Oppenheimer and Mahatma Gandhi. Three of the suites have balconies, the others open onto an oak-shaded terrace. Some have guest cloakrooms, all but one have separate lounges, and all are equipped with double basins, bidets, separate showers and jet baths, towel warmers, as well as under-tile floor heating in the bathrooms and all with working fireplaces.
Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Fireplace, Heated Towel Rails, Mini Bar, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Satellite Cable Television.
Inclusions
Breakfast, Wifi and VAT.
Activities & Interests
Spa, Golf, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Relaxation, Shopping.
Restaurants:
MUSE Champagne Room & Courtyard, Amuse Bouche Food & Wine, Manor House Bistro, The Terrace, "Into The Woods" Private Dining.
Note from Bert :
Fairlawns is a boutique hotel in Sandton, a northern suburb of Johannesburg. On my first visit there, I arrived late and left early the next morning. Not what one needs to do at Fairlawns. Ideally this should be a 2-night stay. Take the time to enjoy this splendid jewel of a property, with an authentic country hotel feel, yet tucked away just a couple of miles from one of the busiest business centers in all of Africa - Sandton City.
On the second visit we were in one of the villa suites - referred to as the Mandela suite – decorated with African artifacts and with walls reminiscent of a light ochre clay. The room itself is massively proportioned in every way: huge entrance foyer with couch, a business nook with adapters and a second phone, a divider, and then a huge middle area with a king size bed facing a large HD television set. Massive bath as well.
Our meals at Fairlawns have been excellent; both dinner and breakfast. The latter consisted of a lavish cold buffet with perfectly ripe fruit, including gooseberries, even prickly pear and our favorite – papaya. There were also many cheeses, cold cuts, smoked salmon, an array of breads and much more. In addition to that you’re free to order one of many hot breakfasts including eggs to order, bacon, sausage, Eggs Benedict, crumpets, oats, omelets and frittatas.
Fairlawns is also renowned for its spa treatments, which we unfortunate did not have time for.
The bottom line on this property is that it is ideal for a little 'mini-vacation' before your safari starts. The perfect spot to chill for a couple of nights and work through the jet lag. If you're feeling energetic or just want to do something while you're there, by all means take a guided tour (we'll arrange it for you) to some of Johannesburg's interesting sights such as Liliesleaf Farm (minutes away from Fairlawns) where the top leadership of the ANC were arrested in 1962, unleashing a chain of events which culminated in the celebrated Rivonia Trial, often referred to as the trial which changed South Africa. Or visit the slightly more remote but no less fascinating Cradle of Mankind for an underground tour to the site where a 2-million year old fossil - the famous Mrs. Ples - was discovered in 1946.
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Amenities on Property
24-hour Security, Bar, Business Centre, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Airport Shuttle (Available), Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Room Service, Travel Desk.
Fly to Botswana and then to one of the world’s best safari camps, Mombo. Situated in the east of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve ranks as one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa. It covers more than 4871 square kilometres of pristine wilderness, and the varied terrain includes savannah, winding waterways, and dense forest.
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This diverse ecosystem supports an incredibly wide spectrum of wildlife, ranging from large herds of buffalo, wildebeest and zebra, to the rare sitatunga and lechwe antelope, lion, cheetah and packs of wild dog in the open grasslands. The birdlife is prolific and includes most of the 550 bird species recorded on Botswana’s national bird list. A range of luxury lodges in the reserve offers visitors the perfect base to experience this corner of paradise.
Travel
Fly to Botswana and then to one of the world’s best safari camps, Mombo. Scheduled road transfer to JNB. You will be met and assisted through check-in and passport control to the boarding gate for your onward flight. Scheduled flight SA8300 JNB-MUB 1145 1325
On arrival at Maun Airport and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be met and assisted by a Wilderness Safaris representative to your light aircraft for your onward circuit air transfer to Mombo.
Accommodations
Mombo Camp
Mombo Camp, on Mombo Island just off the northern tip of Chief’s Island, is built under large shady trees and overlooks a wonderful floodplain teeming with wildlife. Accommodation comprises eight spacious tents raised off the ground, all built to maximise the vistas over the plains. The expanded deck includes a sala and plunge pool.
A large living and dining area looks out over that same view, while Mombo’s famous traditional dinners are hosted in the nearby boma. Mombo shares a boutique, spa, gym and lap pool with Little Mombo. Large concentrations of plains game often occur in front of camp; you may see a variety of animals without even leaving the veranda.
Rooms
Double
Each tent is elegantly furnished, complete with en-suite bathroom, a dressing area, indoor and outdoor showers and a bathtub that creates a sense of indulgence. The expanded deck includes a sala and plunge pool.
Rooms include Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Sala, Verandah, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Tea / Coffee.
Inclusions
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers), Scheduled Camp Activities, Park fees, Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities.
Activities & Interests
Game Drives (Game drives via open 4x4 Land Rovers each accommodate a maximum of four guests, allowing each guest a 'window' seat. Please note that as we are in Moremi Game Reserve, night drives are not possible at Mombo Camp), Massage Treatments (In-room massage treatments are probably the best ways in which to relax and restore within the comfort of your room or private deck), Birding, Nature, Wildlife.
Note from Bert :
Mombo is arguably the ultimate safari camp in all of Southern Africa, if not Africa: superb game-viewing, amazing setting, extremely comfortable accommodation & other facilities, and all-round hospitality of the highest order. Mombo is the kind of camp where guests are often presented with mind-blowing options such as choosing between sightings of several cheetahs on a kill OR a Martial Eagle perched on top of a dead Impala which it had just taken down (this happened to me on my second visit to Mombo). For various reason, including a convergence of habitats, ideal grazing conditions, an abundance of water and good cover, this area attracts large numbers of prey animals (notably impala) with lots of predators close behind.
Large concentrations of plains game occur in front of the camp and guests may view a variety of animals without even leaving the veranda. One often finds animals wandering past, right under the rooms! With the recent re-introduction of rhino into the area, Mombo is now also a reliable 'Big Five' destination with rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo being seen most days.
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Amenities on Property
Bar, Gym, Library, Pool, Private Vehicle Available
Take a light aircraft transfer to the Linyanti area for 3 nights at King’s Pool. The Kwando-Linyanti river system is home to a series of private game reserves, known for their exotic animal species and luxury safari options. An abundance of wildlife roams freely between the woodland habitats, ancient floodplains and forests that make up these lush, unfenced reserves.
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The big game in this area increases dramatically during the dry season when the area hosts large herds of impala, blue wildebeest, giraffe and buffalo as well as the world’s highest density of elephant. Several packs of wild dog are found in the area and lion, leopard and cheetah are frequently sighted. Night drives allow for the discovery of nocturnal creatures such as civets, genets, honey badgers and spring hares. This vast, untamed wilderness is the perfect location for those seeking a unique African adventure in an exclusive and remote big game habitat.
TravelAt a time to be advised by camp management, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your circuit light aircraft transfer from Mombo to King's Pool.
Accommodations
King's Pool
King's Pool consistently delivers the best dry season game viewing in far northern Botswana. Situated on the border with Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, King's Pool is in an area vital to the seasonal movements of elephant herds, and to the survival of rare roan and sable antelope. Looking down over the Linyanti River, and up from the safety of sunken hides gives guests unexpected angles from which to witness great wildlife moments. Eight well-appointed twins and one suite, all of canvas, wood and thatch, soak up the views of the lagoon. The main area, deck and bar offer uninterrupted views, with closer proximity to the water, while parts of the roof extend down to ensure privacy.
Rooms
Family Suite
1 family tent consisting of 2 bedrooms each with its own bathroom and entrance; inter-leading walkway between the two bedrooms.
Wifi (Complimentary), Mini-Bar, Laundry Service (Complimentary) Outside Shower, Verandah.
Inclusions
All meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks. Excludes premium imported brands and champagne.
Activities & Interests
Games Drives, Night Drives, Nature Walks, Hides, Fishing, Birding, Massage Treatments./
Note from Bert :
The Kings Pool area is famous for its elephant concentrations in our winter & early spring months (June through October) and for the great game viewing all year. Huge herds of elephant congregate in winter along the waterways and lagoons - and at the waterholes that are located along the Linyanti River. During these dry months sable and roan traverse the flood plains. All the predators - lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog - feast on the prey species in the area, including impala, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, lechwe, tsessebe and all the other plains game.
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The camp was extensively re-built a couple of years ago and is now one of the finest in all of Northern Botswana. Nine well-appointed tents of canvas and thatch each have a large bedroom area, lounge, private plunge pool and 'sala'. The spacious en-suite bathrooms are tiled with double showers and hand-basins as well as an outdoor shower for those who wish to shower close to nature! Raised walkways allow animals to wander freely through the camp to and from the water. The lounge, dining room and pub areas are on expansive raised decks and there is a pool and an open-air 'kgotla' for dining under the stars.
Amenities on Property
24-hour Security, Bar, Business Centre, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Fly to Maun and then direct to Cape Town where you will spend 3 nights at a 5 star hotel. Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans, sandwiched between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a class of its own.
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Some cities boast rich culture, vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and extraordinary architecture, while others boast breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more. With its bustling harbour, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit.
Day 12 Departure: Scheduled road transfer to Cape Town International Airport to match the timing of your onward flight.
Travel
At a time to be advised by camp management, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your circuit light aircraft transfer from Kings Pool to Maun Airport. Scheduled flight SA8605 MUB-CPT 1335 1620. After making your way through customs and immigration make your way to the transfers area where you will be transferred to the Belmond Mount Nelson.
Accommodations
Belmond Mount Nelson
Captivating visitors since 1899, Cape Town’s iconic resort hotel is a tranquil hideaway just moments from the city’s buzzing heart. Our 198 individually designed rooms and suites and a host of fabulous facilities appeal equally to romantic couples, families or adventurous groups. Stroll through our expansive gardens, take a tree tour or browse the outdoor sculpture exhibition. Discover the hotel’s history, art and culture on self-guided tours. Enjoy imaginative cuisine in our restaurants and soothing bliss at the spa. Just beyond our gates lies the pulsating city, with stunning beaches and historic hotspots moments away. Forever watching over the hotel is Table Mountain, another wondrous Cape Town landmark.
Rooms
Deluxe Room
Located in the Main Building, the Oasis Wing and Green Park, each Deluxe Room has a unique design and personality. Some rooms offer a balcony, while all enjoy an inviting marble en-suite bathroom. Deluxe Rooms combine understated charm with modern luxury. Each features a sitting area, perfect to unwind.
Rooms include Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Mini Bar, Satellite Cable Television, Laundry Service (Available), Heated Towel Rails, Heater.
Inclusions
Bed & Breakfast. (Excludes: Lunch, dinner, wines and champagne & invited guest meals and drinks).
Activities & Interests
Fynbos Sunset Walks on Table Mountain, Hope & Harvest in Cape Town, Historical Tree & Garden Tour, Artist in Residence, Winelands Tour, Shopping in Cape Town, African Drumming at the Gold Museum, Play Tennis like a Pro lessons. Interests include Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture and Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping and Wine.
Note from Bert :
On a recent trip to Cape Town (last May) I spent four nights at the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town and it was wonderful, as before. I am personally quite fond of 'old world' hotels and the Mt. Nelson is definitely that: completed in the early 1900's and beautifully maintained since then, it has lost none of its charm even though it has all the modern conveniences including WIFI. Be sure to try the high tea one afternoon - best in Southern Africa. The 'Nellie' also has a superb outdoor pool, a great spa and exercise facility - somewhat hidden and a short walk from the main area but worth exploring. The hotel is quiet, secluded and well managed; beautiful grounds with a stunning entrance. It is a short walk to various museums and places of interest just off the Company Gardens. Breakfasts are excellent too with literally dozens of options in addition to the usual full English breakfast offerings.
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Amenities on Property
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Business Centre, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Pricing
12 day / 11-night safari
$16,060 pp
Inclusions
All accommodation on a shared basis;
Most safari camps/lodges include two game activities per day in their rate – one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Private activities and guide may be booked, at an additional cost, for sole use or special interest activities. Please advise if you would like additional information on this service;
Meals as specified;
Excursions and transfers as included in the quote;
Services of the camp/lodge guides and staff;
Relevant park fees and entrance fees as specified in the quote;
Drinks as specified – drink inclusions may differ between camps/lodges;
Laundry can be done at most camps/lodges and hotels. In some cases this is included in the rate as quoted;
Air transfers as specified, including Departure Taxes as relevant on Wilderness Air in Botswana and Namibia;
Accommodation taxes, the applicable Tourism Levies and all relevant Value Added Tax (VAT) or Government Sales Tax (GST).
Exclusions
Meals not specified in the quote such as lunch and dinner in city hotels;
Any drinks, park fees, entrance fees, porterage, tours/excursions and transfers not specified in the quote;
Any scheduled commercial flights and related taxes;
Cancellation, baggage and medical insurance;
Staff gratuities;
Any new Government Taxes, levies, fuel or industry increases which are beyond our control;
Visa fees where relevant. Should a visa payment be required, this will need to be made in US Dollar cash. Change is often not provided and thus the exact amounts payable are essential (with small denominations encouraged for easier and quicker transactions). Travellers Cheques and credit cards are not usually accepted for this purpose;
Any items of a personal nature.
Notes
Price based on minimum 2 persons traveling.
Excludes airfare unless specified.
Documents delivered via email: no charge
Safari-ready duffel bags (1 per person): no charge
6 night Botswana arrangements: From $16,060.00 per person sharing
2 nights at Fairlawns Hotel in Sandton, including breakfast : From $440.00 per person sharing
R/t airport transfers in Johannesburg: $130.00 total
3 nights at Belmond Mount Nelson including breakfast (Stay for 3 nights, pay for 2): From $500.00 per person sharing
R/t airport transfers in Cape Town: $130.00 total
One high tea at Belmond Mt. Nelson: no charge
Additional cost for scheduled intra-African flights JNB-MUB, MUB-CPT: $889.00 per person**
**subject to change until ticketed
Customize
Fish Eagle Safaris Tours can all be customized to your ideal itinerary. We offer extra days, more activities, and upgraded amenities suited to your tastes. Below are a few additional options and reach out to bert@fisheaglesafaris.com for more travel ideas.
