Uncovering Africa’s Hidden Gems

Untouched landscapes, ancient cultures, and untamed wildlife beckon intrepid travellers to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Where the Wild Roam Free

Tightly hugging the border of Tanzania in Eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park captivates all who venture there. This extraordinary national park weaves together a vibrant tapestry of warm plains, lush woodlands, glistening lakes, and sprawling wetlands, providing a haven for Africa’s magnificent wildlife to roam freely.

As you venture into Akagera, be prepared to encounter an abundance of zebras, giraffes, and a symphony of hundreds of bird species. But that’s not all – the park’s dedicated conservation efforts aim even higher, striving to reintroduce the legendary Big Five – elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo – ensuring their presence graces the land once more.

When the day’s adventures wind down, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Wilderness Magashi Camp. Perched delicately on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga, its eight spacious tented suites will embrace you in an intimate wilderness sanctuary. From this vantage point, surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, prepare for exceptional safari experiences that will leave you spellbound.

A Window into Wonder

Along the shores of Tanzania’s Lake Tanganyika, a hidden sanctuary of chimpanzees awaits – the enchanting Gombe National Park.

While Gombe may be the smallest of Tanzania’s national parks, its significance is immeasurable. It was within these very borders that Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking studies, revealing the captivating lives of chimpanzees to the world. 

Here, you have the extraordinary privilege of observing these habituated primates up close, as they go about their daily routines. Prepare to witness chimpanzees engaged in intricate social behaviours – grooming, lively squabbles and acrobatic tree-bound adventures. But perhaps the most heartwarming sight of all is witnessing the unbreakable bond between a mother chimp and her offspring.

Further south, a warm welcome awaits you at Greystoke Mahale in the Mahale Mountains National Park.

Arriving by boat, you’ll be greeted by a pristine white sand beach and the majestic backdrop of the Mahale Mountains. The inviting dining area becomes a hub for delicious meals and sharing tales from the forest, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow adventurers. Each Banda, nestled between the crystal-clear waters of the lake and the lush tumbling forests, provides an extraordinary castaway experience – a true haven for the curious wanderer.

A Journey to the Sacred

Step into a time portal and let Lalibela, a mesmerising historical town in northern Ethiopia, whisk you away to a world of spiritual wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage site casts a spell with its extraordinary rock-hewn churches, picturesque rural landscapes, and a profound devotion to Christianity.

Getting there is a breeze, with convenient access from Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, or the northern city of Makele. Fly directly to Lalibela’s airport, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the town, and dive headfirst into its enchantments. You can also explore the wonders of Lalibela by taxi, bus, minibus, or seize the freedom of renting a car and driver to roam at your leisure.

Within walking distance of the city itself, in the picturesque Amhara region, you’ll find the delightful Ben Abeba Lodge – an idyllic base for exploring the region’s famed monolithic rock-hewn churches and the breathtaking Lasta Mountains, the third-highest range in Ethiopia.

Carved into the hillside, Ben Abeba Lodge boasts four ensuite rooms that exude traditional charm. Constructed by skilled local masons and carpenters, each room combines modern fittings with traditional furnishings, all set upon wooden flooring. And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance – the private terrace that grants you breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, basking in the beauty that surrounds you.

Nature’s Masterpiece Unveiled

Travel to southern Namibia to reach the hidden treasure – the NamibRand Nature Reserve. This extraordinary sanctuary was born to safeguard the unique ecology and wildlife of the South-West Namib Desert.

From the mesmerising dunes and sandy plains to the majestic inselbergs and mountains, the rugged gravel plains, and the harmonious meeting point of sand and gravel…

Every step of your exploration will bring encounters with a diverse array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for graceful gemsbok, swift springbok, elegant kudu, majestic zebra, towering giraffe, and an enchanting variety of predators and bird species. With knowledgeable rangers and field guides by your side, traverse the reserve on foot, venture across the terrain in a cross-country vehicle, or even soar above it all in a thrilling hot air balloon ride.

But to truly immerse yourself in this valley of unmatched beauty, you’ll need a safe haven to rest and rejuvenate. Look no further than Wolwedans – an oasis nestled in the heart of the NamibRand Nature Reserve. 

Off the beaten track and offering an experience unlike any other in Africa, Wolwedans is a testament to thoughtful design and harmony with the surroundings. Each camp has been carefully and empathetically situated, boasting its own distinctive backdrop of awe-inspiring desert scenery. Whether you choose the enchanting Dune Camp, the secluded Boulders Camp, the captivating Mountain View Suite, or the tranquil Plains Camp, each promises a stay that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Where History Meets Natural Splendour

Safely tucked away lies a hidden wonder awaits in Zimbabwe – the breathtaking Matobo Hills. While reaching this gem may demand a little extra effort and investment, the rewards it offers are truly priceless.

Imbued with rich history and brimming with natural beauty, Matobo Hills National Park has been captivating visitors since its establishment in 1926. Its name, bestowed by the visionary founder of the Ndebele people, King Mzilikazi, pays homage to the awe-inspiring rock formations that adorn the landscape, earning it the moniker “bald heads.” From magnificent whaleback domes and balancing rocks to winding valleys shrouded in mystery, Matobo Hills presents a captivating tapestry of geological marvels and cultural heritage.

To witness an unforgettable wildlife spectacle, plan your visit during the dry season when animals converge around precious water sources. However, any time of year unveils the true magnificence of this hidden treasure. From the resting place of the iconic Cecil John Rhodes to the tranquil Togwana Dam and beyond, Matobo Hills calls out to intrepid adventurers seeking a profound connection with nature and history.

In the heart of this landscape, just beyond the national park’s borders, lies the remarkable Khayelitshe House. Embraced by the iconic balancing rocks and cocooned within a natural amphitheater of colossal boulders, this extraordinary abode exists completely off-the-grid—a sanctuary that emanates serenity and harmony with nature.

The house’s environmentally friendly design seamlessly melds with the ancient and majestic surroundings, creating a harmonious blend of past and present. With four en-suite bedrooms, each offering breathtaking views from every window, Khayelitshe House invites you to immerse yourself in a world of remoteness that transcends the ordinary.

A Celestial Landscape

In the northeastern reaches of Botswana’s Kalahari Desert, prepare to enter a realm that seems plucked from the heavens – the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. These vast expanses of shimmering salt, remnants of an ancient super-lake, stand as some of the grandest on our planet. 

A highlight of this trip will definitely be the annual Makgadikgadi Migration. Picture thousands of majestic Burchell’s zebras and graceful blue wildebeests embarking on an epic journey from the Boteti River to the salt pans. As the dry season sets in and the bush thins, these incredible creatures gather to feast on the sweet summer grasses and revel in the mineral-rich salt pans’ bounty.

Amidst the pristine landscapes of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park lies Jack’s Camp, ode to the traditional East African safari camps of the 1940s, exuding an irresistible charm. 

WIth eight spacious and stylish tents, Jack’s Camp is where comfort meets adventure. Indulge your taste buds with delectable comfort food that will leave you yearning for seconds, all while enjoying sweeping views of the awe-inspiring Kalahari landscapes. Take a moment to unwind in the iconic, nomadic Persian tea tent, where relaxation becomes an art form. If that is not enough, treat yourselves to rejuvenating couple’s wellness therapies in the dedicated spa tent, allowing your worries to melt away. 

From the sprawling plains of Akagera Park and the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the ethereal salt pans of Makgadikgadi and the enigmatic Matobo Hills, these hidden gems unveil the extraordinary tapestry of Africa.

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