Destination and Accommodation Grading

We define the grading and exclusivity of the destinations and accommodation used in our itineraries as “Silver”, “Gold” or “Platinum”. When choosing an itinerary you can therefore also define the destination and accommodation grading you prefer.

Recommended Destinations

Below is a list of some of the more luxurious Southern Africa destinations and accommodation we use in our itineraries. Exclusivity and package prices depend on the destination and accommodation standard chosen. Having tour operator contracts allow us to include these destinations at very competitive rates.

			Rovos Rail Travel to South Africa and take a trip on the most luxurious train in the world. Your romantic vacation through the heart of Southern Africa will begin or end at the headquarters of this private railway company, Capital Park Station and Locomotive Yard situated outside Pretoria. Rovos Rail offers two beautifully rebuilt Classic trains, each carrying a maximum of 72 passengers who are accommodated in the most spacious and luxurious train suites in the world. The use of traditional furnishings and period décor ensure an atmosphere of elegance and grandeur in the Dining, Lounge and Observation cars.. Click here to Enquire About Rovos Rail

			Wilderness Safaris (Southern Africa) Wilderness Safaris is a conservation organization and ecotourism company dedicated to responsible tourism throughout the areas in which it operates in Southern Africa. Its goal is to share these wild areas with guests from all over the world, while at the same time helping to ensure the future protection of Africa's spectacular wildlife heritage and sharing the benefits of tourism with local communities. Wilderness Safaris operate privately on 2.6 million hectares (6.4 million acres) of southern Africa's finest wildlife reserves in some 50 lodges and camps in Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and the Seychelles. Click here to Enquire About Wilderness Safaris

			andBEYOND (used to be CC Africa) andBEYOND - one of Africa's leading luxury safari companies and operators own and operate almost 50 extraordinary lodges and camps in breathtaking locations across six African countries. andBEYOND also operates exhilarating luxury safaris including walking safaris and expeditions, mobile safaris and a unique range of specialist safaris. Click here to Enquire About andBEYOND (used to be CC Africa)

			The Singita Group (Sabi Sands & Kruger Park) The Singita Group encapsulates the ultimate Africa safari experience with spectacular lodges on prime “Big Five” game viewing land. The lodges exude exquisite luxury, rare solitude and perfect tranquility creating an unrivalled guest experience and making it one of the world's premier destinations. Singita Lebombo and Sweni are situated in a private concession on the remote eastern boundary of Kruger National Park. Singita Boulders and Ebony are situated in the heart of the world-renowned Sabi Sand Reserve, in South Africa. Click here to Enquire About The Singita Group

			MalaMala Private Game Lodges (Sabi Sands) MalaMala is the oldest and most historical private game reserve in South Africa, frequented by many statesmen, aristocrats and other luminaries since its inception in 1927. Sound conservation management, sheer size of land (largest private “Big Five” game reserve in South Africa) and a 19 km (12 mile) unfenced border shared with the Kruger National Park contribute to MalaMala’s reputation as one of the finest game viewing destination in the world. MalaMala consistently features in the world’s top tourism and travel awards such as Travel and Leisure’s ‘World’s Best Hotel’, and Condé Nast Traveler’s ‘Top Hotel in Africa’. Click here to Enquire About MalaMala Private Game Lodges

			Mashatu Game Reserve (Botswana) Mashatu or “Land of the Giants” in Botswana is the largest private game reserve in Southern Africa and features seven of Africa’s iconic giants including elephant and lion. Mashatu is based at the confluence of Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Click here to Enquire About Mashatu Game Reserve

			Sabi Sabi Private Game Lodges (Sabi Sands) Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve’s "Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow" theme offers four completely separate luxurious Lodges each with a very distinct character and atmosphere. The “Yesterday” experience is encapsulated at the romantic Selati Camp; the "Today" experience at the more contemporary lodges of Bush Lodge and Little Bush Camp and the "Tomorrow" experience at the ground-breaking Earth Lodge. Located in the southern section of the Greater Kruger National Park - a wildlife paradise, you can still observe at close quarters the “Big Five” and hundreds of other species of African animals and birds. Click here to Enquire About Sabi Sabi Private Game Lodges

			Shamwari (Port Elizabeth) Shamwari is a “Big Five” malaria free private game reserve situated in verdant bush along the Bushmans River, halfway between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. Visiting Shamwari forms a natural extension to the famous Garden Route situated in the Eastern Cape. The reserve has received numerous international awards, including the “World’s Leading Conservation Company and Game Reserve” for many consecutive years. Luxury accommodation is offered in 6 different lodges. Steeped in pioneer history, and dating back to the time when game roamed wild and free, the 25 000 hectare reserve boasts five eco-systems, thus enabling the support of many forms of plant, animal and bird life. Click here to Enquire About Shamwari

			Jock Safari Lodge (Kruger National Park) Jock Safari Lodge is one of the very first privately owned camps situated in the world famous Kruger National Park. The Lodge has exclusive traversing rights in what is regarded as the best “Big Five” game viewing area in the Kruger National Park. The Jock Safari Lodge theme is set by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick’s animal classic “Jock of the Bushveld” – a story written at the time of South Africa’s first gold rush. Luxury accommodation for a total of only 30 pax offered in two Camps incorporates the romance and elegance of the past colonial era and reflects in its unique style the indigenous Zulu and Shangaan cultures. Click here to Enquire About Jock Safari Lodge

			Blaauwbosch Game Lodge (Eastern Cape) Blaauwbosch is a discrete, homely “Big Five” game lodge in the heart of the malaria-free Little Karoo. Grouped into a small hamlet, its simple thatched cottages blend seamlessly into the surrounding foothills of the Winterhoek mountain range. With only seven luxurious thatched chalets, Blaauwbosch offers guests a private safari experience and great introduction to this less travelled region. Visiting Blaauwbosch forms a natural extension to the famous Garden Route situated in the Eastern Cape. Click here to Enquire About Blaauwbosch Game Lodge

			Bushmans Kloof (Cedarberg Mountains – Western Cape) Bushmans Kloof offers a unique wilderness experience at the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains. Hidden in a riverine valley the reserve is surrounded by spectacular red rock formations and babbling seasonal rivers. Only 270 km north of Cape Town, this 18,000 acre wilderness reserve boasts “one of the world’s largest open-air art galleries” with more than 130 ancient San Bushmen rock art sites, fabulous walking (guided or unguided) opportunities and a serene oasis setting for total relaxation. It is the perfect environment for painting, photography (especially in the September Namaqualand flower season) and stargazing. Click here to Enquire About Bushmans Kloof

			Elephant Plains Game Lodge (Sabi Sands) Elephant Plains Game Lodge offering comfortable style and affordable luxury is situated in the northern part of the “Big Five” Sabi Sand Game Reserve adjacent to the Kruger National Park. With a maximum accommodation capability of only 24 guests, this family run Lodge ensures personal service and a warm, friendly atmosphere. The Lodge is situated on the dry Manyeleti riverbed and overlooks a permanent waterhole. Click here to Enquire About Elephant Plains Game Lodge

			Idube Game Lodge (Sabi Sands) Idube Game Lodge is situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. With only 10 chalets allowing maximum of 20 guests, it ensures exclusivity and personal attention at reasonable prices. Click here to Enquire About Idube Game Lodge

			Lukimbi Game Lodge (Kruger National Park) Lukimbi Game Lodge is situated in the southern part of the Kruger National Park. Lukimbi has 14 spacious suites combining luxury and modern African decor with private decks and river views. Click here to Enquire About Lukimbi Game Lodge

			Tintswalo Safari Lodge (Manyeleti Game Reserve) Tintswalo is an exclusive safari lodge situated on the private Manyeleti Reserve concession that is nestled between the celebrated Sabi Sands, Timbavati and Kruger National Park. These interlinked game reserves form part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Tintswalo offers guests an excellent wildlife experience, decadent accommodation, delicious dinners and excellent value for money. The concessions and park are unfenced and so enjoy a free-flow of “Big Five” game as well as countless other species, whilst limited vehicle numbers create a true sense of wilderness and exclusivity. Click here to Enquire About Tintswalo Safari Lodge

			Hunter Hotels (Eastern Cape, Western Cape & Limpopo) Set in extraordinary beautiful locations, each Hunter Hotels property is completely unique, offering the discerning visitor an unforgettable experience. Rich in character, beautiful and opulent, with acute attention to detail, the internationally acclaimed Hunter Hotels are the pinnacle of unobtrusive service excellence. Hunters Country House and Tsala Treetop Lodge near Plettenberg Bay, Gorah Elephant Camp situated in the Greater Addo Elephant Park and Marataba - an exclusive 23 000 hectare private concession in the heart of Limpopo's Marakele National Park are all family owned and run establishments and proud members of Relais & Chateaux. Click here to Enquire About Hunter Hotels

			Grootbos (Walker Bay – Hermanus) Grootbos is rated amongst the most beautiful conservation reserves in South Africa. The two lodges are the epitome of luxury and comfort whilst capturing the harmony which nature thrives on in the reserve. The Conservancy was created in 2004 to fulfill the greater need for Fynbos Conservation. Situated near Hermanus, Grootbos overlooks Walker Bay – worldwide regarded as one of the best whale watching spots in the world. Click here to Enquire About Grootbos

			Ellerman House (Bantry Bay – Cape Town) From its prestigious Bantry Bay location, Ellerman House enjoys a fantastic vantage point on the Atlantic Seaboard. Once the stately residence of Sir John and Lady Esther Ellerman of international shipping fame, Ellerman House has been meticulously restored to its original turn of the century splendour and infused with every modern convenience and luxury. Over the last decade the owners have compiled an assortment of the finest in South African art. From early twentieth century oils to contemporary montages, these are openly displayed at Ellerman and make up one of the country’s largest private collections. Click here to Enquire About Ellerman House

			Les Cascades (Bantry Bay – Cap Town) Les Cascades de Bantry Bay is perched on the hillside in one of Cape Town’s most exclusive residential districts. With Lion's Head, one of Cape Town’s formative mountains, towering above and the sweeping beaches and crashing waves of the Atlantic Seaboard below, this is a fabulous city spot. The décor is contemporary Balinese with dark stained wood, Indian slate terraces, black lined pools, lattice shutters, candle-filled lanterns, ivory parasols and earthy hues in the furnishings. Combined with comfortable colonial furniture, high quality contemporary art and distinctive object d’art, Le Cascades is a stylish and relaxed place to stay. Click here to Enquire About Les Cascades

			Woodall Country House & Spa (Addo Elephant Park) Woodall Country House & Spa – a rustic but luxurious Lodge, is situated on a peaceful citrus farm near the Addo Elephant Park and less than an hour from Port Elizabeth. Woodall offers luxury accommodation and standard of service that leaves you unwilling to leave and eager to return. Click here to Enquire About Woodall Country House & Spa

			Mardouw Country House (Swellendam) Mardouw Country House is set in the lush wineland area near Swellendam and an ideal choice for those travelling along scenic Route 60 or the Garden Route. Originally a family home, the old residence and barn have been transformed with great care to maintain its original style – retaining as many of its old doors, windows and ceilings as possible – and atmosphere, but with a clean-cut modern twist. The rugged natural environment and tamed terraces now provide a splendid setting for Mardouw’s stylish modern architecture, African artefacts and superb contemporary art collection. Click here to Enquire About Mardouw Country House

			The Marine (Hermanus) The Marine is perched on top of the cliffs at Hermanus and has one of the southern hemisphere's most spectacular seascapes. Commanding views extend across Walker Bay or over the beautiful internal courtyard, finely manicured gardens and the Overberg Mountains. Stroll along the cliff hugging path and take in the breath taking views of Hermanus and Walker Bay that offer some of the best land-based whale watching in the world. Click here to Enquire About The Marine

			Auberge Provence (Hermanus) Auberge Provence near Hermanus is an intimate retreat constructed in the style of a traditional French Provencal farmhouse. It represents an authentic piece of France complete with rustic stone and wrought iron balconied facade, stone floors and arched walkways. Set on the edge of the cliffs of Hermanus, it overlooks the whale watchers' paradise of Walker Bay. Click here to Enquire About Auberge Provence

			Le Quartier Francais (Franschhoek) Le Quartier Français is an exclusive Relais Chataux boutique hotel situated in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley in the Cape Winelands. It’s Quarters Suites, Auberge Suites and Auberge Rooms are decorated using the ultimate in luxury fittings, fabrics, finishes and artwork by local talent. Perhaps the most outstanding feature of Le Quartier Francaise is “The Tasting Room” where guests can enjoy a fine dining experience without comparison. The Tasting Room was listed as one of the “The Worlds 50 Best Restaurants” 2005, 2006 & 2007 by Restaurant Magazine UK. Click here to Enquire About Le Quartier Francais

			The Hideaway Guest House (Swellendam) The Hideaway is a national monument and one of the oldest houses in Swellendam. It boasts four very spacious and elegant individually decorated suites in a lush, green garden setting with amazing views of the looming mountain behind. All rooms are air-conditioned and furnished with fine handcrafted furniture, antiques and beautiful original paintings, prints and photographs. Click here to Enquire About The Hideaway Guest House

			Rosenhof (Oudtshoorn) Rosenhof Country House is situated on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn en route to the Cango Caves and Ostrich Farms. The carefully renovated homestead (Circa 1852), with its yellowwood beams and ceilings and a tasteful collection of antique furniture, exudes an aura of authenticity. Click here to Enquire About Rosenhof

			Red Stone Hills (Calitzdorp) Red Stone Hills is a lovely working farm at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains in the klein Karoo region and ideally situated when travelling along the scenic Route 62 between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. There are various short and interesting walks on the farm. Accommodation is in charming traditional Farm Cottages, circa 1880. Click here to Enquire About Red Stone Hills

			Village & Life (Cape Town) Village & Life is an innovative and dynamic hospitality group renowned for its hotels, guest houses and unique hospitality villages in Cape Town. Since launching Cape Town’s first Guest Street in De Waterkant in 1994, the hospitality village concept evolved and developed into an authentic “Village Experience” with all the services you’d expect from a hotel. Villages are located at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, De Waterkant, Camps Bay, Mouille Point and Langebaan. Click here to Enquire About Village & Life

			The Plettenberg (Plettenberg Bay) The Plettenberg is a 5-Star Relais & Chateaux Boutique Hotel in Plettenberg Bay. Built on a rocky headland with breathtaking vistas of the sea, mountains and miles of golden sand, it offers guests an idyllic experience. Plettenberg Bay and the closely situated Knysna are two of the most scenic seaside towns along the Garden Route. Click here to Enquire About The Plettenberg

			River Manor Boutique Hotel & Spa (Stellenbosch) River Manor is located in the heart of Stellenbosch - one of the oldest towns in the Cape winelands. Formed of two classic houses on the picturesque, oak-lined street known as ‘The Avenue’, its celebrated architecture has gained River Manor National Monument status. It is just moments from the village centre with its university buzz, specialist museums, interesting street cafes, fine restaurants and eclectic galleries. Click here to Enquire About River Manor Boutique Hotel & Spa

			Vineyard Hotel & Spa (Cape Town) The luxury Vineyard Hotel & Spa is situated in six acres of attractive landscaped parkland on the banks of the Liesbeeck River in the lush leafy suburb of Newlands. This beautiful establishment comprises the original home of Lady Anne Barnard and new bedrooms designed by highly acclaimed architects Jack Barnett and Revel Fox. It is filled with works by leading South African artists and offers rooms ranging from single to family suites. Click here to Enquire About Vineyard Hotel & Spa

			The Saxon (Sandton – Johannesburg) The Saxon is an exclusive international award-winning boutique Hotel & Spa located in the beautiful, tranquil suburb of Sandhurst in close proximity to Sandton - Johannesburg’s upmarket business area. Voted the World’s Leading Boutique Hotel for the past six years, the Saxon epitomizes tasteful African elegance combined with exceptional, discreetly personalized attention to details. The Saxon Spa & Studio was also named Top 100 City Spa in the World 2007 by Tatler, UK. Situated on six acres of undulating landscaped gardens, this quiet retreat seems far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Click here to Enquire About The Saxon

			The Cape Grace (Cape Town) The Cape Grace with its classically inspired exterior and graceful elegance within, offers the ultimate experience for discerning travelers. Set on its own private quay on Cape Town’s vibrant Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, the hotel is a destination in itself. Cape Grace’s charm lies in its intimate atmosphere, stylish décor and personalized hospitality. All the rooms have views of the V&A harbour or yacht marina with a Table Mountain backdrop. Click here to Enquire About The Cape Grace

			Mount Nelson (Cape Town) The Mount Nelson Hotel - situated within a sprawling lush garden estate in the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural centre and close to the V&A Waterfront, is probably the most iconic luxury hotel in Cape Town. The hotel is an urban sanctuary with a romantic heritage, a unique sense of style and a commitment to unparalleled service excellence. The Mount Nelson is member of the Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises portfolio. Click here to Enquire About Mount Nelson

			Grand Roche (Paarl – Winelands) Grande Roche is situated in the heart of the Cape winelands. Its heritage dates back to 1717 when a grant of land was given to Hermanus Bosman. The homestead was renovated in 1876 to reflect the then popular Victorian style. The farm was bought and modernised by the Du Toit family in 1926 and after a fire in 1953 it was rebuilt as a Victorian manor house and finally restored to its original Cape Dutch splendour in 1991. Today Grande Roche is a celebrated international Relais & Chateaux hotel famous for its exquisite location as well as for its luxurious, cosmopolitan accommodation, award-winning cuisine and matchless service and hospitality. Click here to Enquire About Grand Roche

			The Westcliff (Johannesburg) Situated in one of Johannesburg's most exclusive residential suburbs, The Westcliff's hillside setting with cascading, sculpted gardens and elegantly opulent accommodation evoke a bygone era of leisure and refinement in one of the world's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. The Westcliff is also member of the Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises portfolio. Click here to Enquire About The Westcliff

			Fancourt Hotel, Country Club & Golf Estate (George) Fancourt is widely regarded as South Africa’s premier golf resort, featuring four highly rated golf courses suited to every type of golfer as well as one of the finest golf academies in the world with state-of-the-art practice and teaching facilities backed up by the expertise of PGA professionals. Accommodation is in the lovely Manor House and Garden Suites and the hotel also has excellent spa facilities. Click here to Enquire About Fancourt Hotel, Country Club & Golf Estate

			Zimbali Coastal Resort (Balito Bay) Zimbali is a breathtaking Coastal Resort situated on a pristine stretch of KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast near Durban. Featuring inspired architecture displaying an Indonesian influence, the majestic estate offers guests an exceptional experience within a pristine environment. With its beautiful ocean and forest views, exceptional water and wetland features and an inspiring natural setting, Zimbali Country Club has developed the reputation of a memorable golf course with charisma and challenge. In terms of the ultimate golfing experience, Zimbali is amongst the top 10 courses in South Africa to receive the Complete Golfer's Five-star Golf Experience Award. Click here to Enquire About Zimbali Coastal Resort

			Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa (Knysna) Set on a stunning award-winning private estate Pezula has breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, the Knysna Lagoon and the Outeniqua Mountains. Pezula is a member of Leading Small Hotels of the World and was recently named by the Condé Nast Traveller (UK) Readers' Travel Awards as one of the Top 20 Overseas Leisure Hotels - Middle East, Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. The adjacent situated Pezula Championship Golf Course rated amongst the best and most scenic courses in the world, is a sweeping spectacle of fairways and greens. Click here to Enquire About Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa