PUBLISHED September 22nd, 2014 04:00 pm | UPDATED January 19th, 2016 03:35 pm
If you haven’t got your vacation plans for the end of the year sorted, here’s our suggestion: escape to Africa. From mid November to May next year, Green Season sees the oft-seen brown, arid-looking savannahs of Africa turn to lush, green landscapes.
Spotting animals in dense foliage might be more of a challenge, as opposed to dry season when they congregate around drinking sources, but not only does this unpredictability add to the adventure, it’s also bird and baby season, which also means heightened predator activity (cue Elton John’s Circle of Life in The Lion King). With less crowds and safari lodges cutting their rates, we don’t see why a little rain should deter you from visiting during Green Season. Check out some of the best deals in Southern and East Africa, and we’ll let the pictures do most of the talking.
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
Southern Africa
Sanctuary Retreats offers guests a unique and inspiring experience of luxury adventure travel. For this upcoming Green Season, they’re offering great savings on selected safari lodges and camps in Botswana and Zambia.
Located on the famous Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana, Sanctuary Chief’s Camp is ideal for game viewing as the area is known as the predator capital of Africa. The property has 12 luxury bush pavilions with private decks as well as both indoor and outdoor showers. Keen to see elephants? Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero sits on the edge of Chobe National Park, home to the world’s largest remaining population of these gentle giants. Featuring 15 thatched cottages and Botswana’s only full spa (treetop treatment room included), this is safari luxe at its best.
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma
Slightly up north in Zambia, Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma afford unrivalled views and exclusivity in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. Built on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River just 12 kilometres upstream from the mighty Victoria Falls, the lodge is also the only one in the area that offers guided walking safaris. If you intend to bring the little ones, check in to Sanctuary Chichele Presidential Lodge. Once the personal retreat of Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda, the lodge is stands atop a magnificent hill in the South Luangwa National Park, and has a dedicated program for kids – perfect for families, really.
Guests who spend a minimum of six nights (combinable at afore mentioned lodges) pay US$450 per person per night, saving up to US$310 per person per night. Prices include all meals, drinks, and daily game drives. For more information, see website.
East Africa
Celebrating their 10th birthday, safari operator Asilia is running a ‘Stay 3, Pay 2’ (basically you get the third night free) offer on all its properties in Kenya and Tanzania.
Rekero Camp
Overlooking an ancient animal river crossing point in the Masai Mara Wildlife Reserve, Kenya, the Rekero camp promises an actioned-packed vacation with an abundance of big cats (think lions, cheetahs, and leopards) practically on its doorstep. Nine spacious tents sitting on a picturesque bend of the Talek River, nestled under huge deciduous trees, makes for a quiet and exclusive safari experience. The more adventurous, however, might prefer the Mara Bush Houses, located in the best spots of the Masai Mara eco-system. Imagine your own standalone house in the bush where wildlife comes right to your front door – far out! Each house is equipped with a specially adapted safari vehicle and a guide to explore the reserve.
Sayari Camp
The Sayari Camp in the north Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, is heralded as one of the prime game-viewing areas in East Africa, with unmarred views towards the Mara River, as well as the famed Lamai Wedge where herds gather at the start of the migration. All 15 tented suites have en-suite bathrooms with egg-shaped baths large enough for two and private verandas, which could be perfect for your next romantic escapade.
Book before 10 November 2014 to enjoy the ‘Stay 3, Pay 2’ offer at these Asilia properties, valid for travel till 30 June 2015. For more information, get in touch with their local partner, Asia to Africa Safaris at 6442 7600 or see Asilia’s website.