Timbavati vs Sabi Sands, Which is Better?

Have you ever wondered whether the sound of your voice or a lion’s roar is more terrifying to your average wild animal?  A recent study published in Current Biology answers this question quite definitively. (You’ll find the answer at the bottom of this newsletter).

Speaking of lions, we often get asked, particularly by honeymoon couples looking to enjoy a Big Five safari vacation, “Which is better, Timbavati or Sabi Sands”? Both private concessions, which border the Kruger National Park (making up the Greater Kruger unfenced area), are among South Africa’s top draw cards for seeing Africa’s Big Five.  

We’ve shared a little about the differences you can expect at each destination below and we’d be happy to help you discover which lodge and which reserve is perfect for the type of safari that you envisage. 

Whether you’re looking for seclusion and romance or a lodge that would cater for a multi-generational family vacation. Or, perhaps, you’re travelling solo and you’re itching to capture breathtaking photos of elephants, or shoot a leopard hoisting its kill into a tree. Whatever you’re looking for, we’re here to help.

Accommodation options in Timbavati vs Sabi Sands
There’s a wide variety of accommodation available in both Timbavati and in Sabi Sands, including some self-catering options geared towards the local Southern African market and premium lodges.

In Timbavati, the accommodation can range from the comfortable but simpler Walkers Plains Camp to the sumptuous Tanda Tula. In Sabi Sands, a more affordable lodge would be Umkumbe, and an example of a premium luxury lodge would be the Dulini, Singita and &Beyond lodges. 

What makes Timbavati unique and what animals can you expect to see here?
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is a truly untouched and unspoiled wilderness. Unlike other regions that have undergone restoration and rewilding efforts, Timbavati stands out as a genuine example of wilderness in its natural state.

According to Timbavati Reserve, it’s also “the only reserve where wild white lions occur regularly and naturally”. White lions are not a subspecies of lion but rather reflect a genetic trait, a recessive gene, that occurs in the area (much like the blue eyes in humans). 

The landscape of the Timbavati Reserve is also well-suited for plains game like wildebeest and impala. While it provides the opportunity to see all of the Big Five, other sightings, like that of wild dogs can also be very rewarding.  

What makes Sabi Sands unique and what animals can you expect to see here?
The Big Five game area of Sabi Sands is well known for its leopard conservation. While there is never a guarantees of seeing the most elusive big cat, if this is on your bucket list, Sabi Sands is an excellent place to seek them out.

Sabi Sands has more lodges than Timbavati, however, the lodges are very good at limiting the number of game drive vehicles to three or four (at most) per sighting, depending on how relaxed the animal is. This ensures the reserve doesn’t feel crowded.

The rich water supply from the Sabi and the Sand Rivers draws a high concentration of wildlife, making Sabi Sands one of the most bio-diverse wilderness areas in the country. Sabi Sands is known throughout South Africa as having some of the industry’s most well-trained and knowledgeable safari guides and rangers.

Choosing between Timbavati and Sabi Sands
There are many factors to consider when making your choice, for instance, the size of land that each private game reserve occupies can influence the likelihood of seeing certain animals, such as big cats that can cover large tracts of bush. If the reserve’s traversing area is smaller, it can limit the likelihood of seeing certain species. However, even in the larger reserves, there is never a guarantee of particular wild animal sightings and well-trained guides will ensure that you have an interesting and informative safari experience regardless.

Think about what’s most important to you and your partner, or family, and let us know. We’re happy to guide you through the decision-making process. 

Now, to answer the question about lions vs humans…

Are lions or humans scarier?
In a recent comprehensive experimental study conducted in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park, researchers investigated whether wildlife’s fear of humans surpassed that of lions. 

Using automated camera-speaker systems at waterholes during the dry season, they exposed various mammals to recordings of humans, lions, hunting sounds, or non-predator sounds, for example, birds. The results showed that animals fear humans significantly more than lions. This fear response was consistent across a wide range of species, with 95% exhibiting heightened fear towards humans over lions. “Fully 95% of species ran more from humans than lions (significantly in giraffes, leopards, hyenas, zebras, kudu, warthog, and impala) or abandoned water holes faster (significantly in rhinoceroses and elephants).” Wildlife were twice as likely to run and abandon waterholes 40% faster in response to human stimuli compared to lions or hunting sounds. 

This is one of the reasons that it’s important to be quiet (or speak softly when necessary) on safari in a game drive vehicle or on a walking safari. You don’t want to scare away the creatures and spoil the safari experience for yourself, or others.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

P. S. If you haven’t booked your December break, reply to this email. We’d be happy to help. If you’re still undecided on where to go, look at our blog for inspiration. It’s our privilege to help you plan your next trip, no matter whether it’s far in advance or a spur-of-the-moment getaway.

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Victoria Falls & Chobe: Nature’s Grand Spectacles

Daphnée and I visited Victoria Falls and Chobe recently, to refresh our knowledge about these destinations and explore a mix of new and established lodges and hotels. Our adventure took us through four countries, where we visited 31 lodges. It’s safe to say our days were packed to the brim! Despite the furious schedule, we had an incredible time and relished the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the untamed beauty of Africa once more.

Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, located on the Zambezi River at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. During the peak flow season, the spray and mist from the falls can rise to over 400 metres (1,300 feet) and be seen from up to 50 kilometres (31 miles) away earning it the local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means “The Smoke That Thunders”. The falls stretch over 1,700 metres wide and drop up to 108 metres. What I find most enjoyable about visiting the falls, besides the dramatic beauty of the waterfall, is the beautiful rainforest that thrives due to a distinctive microclimate in the surrounding area that supports a wide variety of plants and animals.

There are three different lodge experiences you can have in Victoria Falls. If you’d like a good quality, comfortable guesthouse with personal service, stay in the town. This will also give easy access to all the town’s adventurous activities, like white water rafting and helicopter flips.

If you’d like a safari lodge on the water, with beautiful views, peaceful surroundings, and easy access to river boating activities, choose one of the excellent luxury safari lodges on the Zambezi River. If you’d like more privacy and exclusivity, choose a lodge on the Zambian side, such as Toka Leya or Tongabezi. One of the places I’d love to return to with my family is Tsowa Island because it’s exactly the type of wilderness experience we love. It’s remote, on the water, simple and offers excellent guiding and bird watching. I felt the same about the more rustic Ichingo Lodge on the Namibian side of the Chobe River. What my family and I love is not necessarily what my clients will love and  I always try to match a lodge with the type of experience my clients would like to have in Africa.

If you’d like a safari experience surrounded by African wildlife, choose a lodge south of the town, in the Victoria Falls National Park.

Chobe
Chobe National Park, located in northern Botswana, is renowned for its spectacular elephant population, boasting one of the largest concentrations in Africa. We saw so many of these gentle giants on our trip that we lost count! Excellent game drive safaris are possible in Chobe National Park, but what I like the most are the boat safaris one can do on the Chobe River. These allow you to witness unique animal behaviours not always visible from land. We spent 30 minutes watching two young male elephants crossing from an island back to the mainland. They wrestled, swam, sprayed water with their trucks and enjoyed life! We also encountered hippos, crocodiles, and many fascinating bird species on the islands and river banks.

Since there is only one lodge inside Chobe National Park, Daphnée and I would recommend staying outside the park at the Ngoma Gate side if you want a less crowded, more exclusive experience. The views out over the floodplain here are absolutely sensational. 

We also visited some gorgeous lodges on the Kasane side, which is a great option because all boat safaris start from Kasane, making them easy to access. If you stay in Kasane, you will enter the National Park via the Sedudu Gate. This can be crowded with most day visitors using this gate to enter the park, so it is best to go early.

We also visited a houseboat (Zambezi Queen) and two lovely lodges on the Namibian side, doing four border crossings in one day. African border crossings can be time-consuming and border officials can be annoying – like border officials everywhere. Ideally, it’s best to stay a few days in either location and not cross the border too frequently. Another tip for border crossings, if using a transfer to get from one lodge to the next, is to be aware that your driver will change at the Kazangula, or Vic Falls, border. Your driver on the originating side will hand you over to another driver at your destination to avoid the paperwork and extra cost of moving cars and people across the border. This process will be completely seamless with a reliable transfer operator.

If you are considering visiting Victoria Falls or Chobe, or including these destinations on a wider Africa itinerary, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help and advice in planning a trip of a lifetime.

Happy travelling,
Diana and the Leopard Team 

How to wine and dine your way around Cape Town

Cape Town’s wine valleys are renowned. However, as locally-based South African travel experts, we can attest that the city and surroundings also boast diverse, flavour-rich dining experiences spanning several culinary disciplines.

In 2016, The Telegraph stated that “there has been a gastronomic revolution that would suggest Cape cuisine is up there with the best in the world.” According to Afar.com, “you’ll find Cape Town’s food scene almost as thrilling as its dramatic setting,” while The Culture Trip describes the city as a “veritable foodie paradise”. These statements are no surprise to locals, who are accustomed to the melting pot of flavours that allows diners to pick almost anything their heart desires – if you know where to go.

While it would take a book to guide you through all the mouthwatering choices available, we hope to provide you with a glimpse to whet your appetite:

Romantic restaurants

Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic
This restaurant, close to Hout Bay, provides an exquisite setting for a meal, especially during summer. It’s positioned perfectly along the boulder-strewn coastline, with endless views over the Atlantic Ocean. Besides being secluded and completely Instagrammable, the menu (which provides various options and changes regularly) highlights seafood. It can include anything from line-fish sashimi with smoked haddock crème fraiche to togarashi squid with charred jalapeno mayonnaise or pan-fried kingklip with smoked snoek beurre blanc.

La Petite Ferme
La Petite Ferme, which means The Little Farm, describes its food as a “fusion of countryside cuisine with a fresh contemporary twist.” The boutique hotel’s restaurant is set high on the mountain slopes and offers exquisite views of the Franschhoek Valley. Head chef Lance Peters weaves bountiful flavour into his creations, which can include anything from pan-fried free-range duck with caramelised purple cabbage, parsnip and apple puree, apple mojito gel, Cape curry espuma and red wine jus to a Karoo lamb duo with pomegranate honey sauce, purple potato puree, deep fried maize bitterballen and confit tomato.

Le Petite Ferme also cultivates its own award-winning wines, and if your meal has left you sleepy, you can book a suite and spend the night.

Perfect for families

Boschendal Wine Estate 
Boschendal is a glorious venue for families travelling with children. The shaded lawns and play area provide ample space for play and exploration. There are several activities for children, especially during the South African school holidays (it’s best to book these in advance). 

Boschendal has excellent wines, and its Werf Restaurant presents “contemporary soil-to-fork cuisine.” Many ingredients come from the Werf Food Garden, while the rest come from other local, seasonal, and ethically sourced ingredients. Bright, lively colours compliment the vibrant flavours, and diners can enjoy dishes like black Angus beef, forest-reared Duroc pork, and freshly picked herbs and vegetables. 

Opposite the Werf restaurant, you can enjoy more casual (yet no less tasty dining) at Bochendal’s Deli under the oaks. Pick from a range of farm-style breakfasts, including smoked salmon with herb cream cheese, fresh tomato and avocado, rocket salad. For lunch, enjoy a South African favourite: sweet and spicy bobotie. This Cape-Malay-inspired dish is made with braised Boschendal black Angus beef and a savoury custard, served with homemade orange chutney, cucumber tomato sambal and basmati rice.

Tokara Delicatessen
Tokara’s deli is perfect for families with an impressive jungle gym and a human-sized bird nest in the oak tree. There’s lots to keep children busy right in front of the restaurant. The views overlooking the vineyards and olive groves are also incredible. 

The wine-tasting lounge and formal restaurant nearby are not child-centric, but you can enjoy a wine tasting before heading to the deli where your children can let all their energy abound. Micro-greens, salad leaves and strawberries are grown on the grounds, while other ingredients are sourced sustainably. You’ll find options for light lunches like roasted carrot and baby marrow tart with shaved red onion and pickled carrot salad, ricotta, garden herb dressing and toasted almonds. There are also more robust options like woodfired pizza, a deli beef or chicken burger or braised pork belly with miso glazed sweet potato, baba ghanoush purée, spring onion & roasted cherry tomatoes.
 

Vegan and vegetarian options

Fyn
Fyn is arguably one of Cape Town’s top 10 restaurants, and in 2022, it was listed as one of the world’s top 50 restaurants. Its Japanese-African fusion cuisine was created by Peter Tempelhoff, who has worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants in London. There, he was mentored by Marco Pierre White, among others. While the menu does cater for meat eaters, as well as pescatarians, they have an extraordinary plant-based menu. It includes delights like aubergine, shiso, heirloom carrot with fried koji and also Meuse Farm tomatoes, tofu and miso, ponzu jelly, tempura courgette flower, sunflower pesto with cucumber somen, labneh and achar.

Chefs Warehouse
Chefs Warehouse is a group of restaurants, one of which is Tintswalo Atlantic (mentioned above). There’s also Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia and Chefs Warehouse Maison in Franschhoek as well as at The Bailey. In addition to each restaurant’s unique meat offerings, all of the Chefs Warehouse menus offer abundant choices for vegetarians and vegans. The group assures diners that its vegan and vegetarian dishes are “no afterthought” and that “great thought and care have gone into making sure that all these dishes are as delicious and exciting as everything else on our menu”.

For light breakfasts or lunches, try Nourish’d Café in Green Point, as well as in the Cape Town City Bowl, Scheckter’s Raw in Sea Point and Mary-Ann’s Emporium in Somerset West.

Wines

Besides visiting individual wine farms and enjoying tasting yourself, we recommend several guided experiences. Explore beyond the typical tourist routes with Bikes ‘n Wines in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. You’ll get to cycle (you can select an electric bike if you like) leisurely on dirt roads between the vineyards and visit beautiful spaces often overlooked by visitors. Expert guides offer insider knowledge and a deeper understanding of the region’s distinctive allure as you stop to taste wine and enjoy a delicious meal at the end of your tour. 

If you’re uncomfortable on a bicycle, why not explore the Winelands on foot on the Constantia Wine Walk? Described as a “sip-and-stroll storytelling journey through some of Cape Town’s oldest vineyards, you’ll enjoy fine wine at each stop and a meal at the end. Matthew Sterne, founder of this wine walk, will regale you with fascinating tales of Contantia’s history, including the famous people who drank Cantantia’s wine. These include Napoleon, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens and France’s King Louis XVI (he and Marie Antoinette had nearly 3,000 bottles of it in their Versailles cellar). 

If neither cycling nor walking appeals, you can flit between wine estates in Franschhoek’s wine tram or enjoy a more intimate experience on Waterford Wine Estate’s Wine Drive Safari. This unique wine-tasting experience, on a safari-type vehicle, allows you to taste the estate wines among the vineyards of their origin while enjoying a handcrafted platter selected to pair with the individual wines. The experience culminates with tasting The Jem and the estate’s well-known wine and chocolate pairing.

Whichever way you choose to explore Cape Town and its surrounding wine valleys, there’s no shortage of fine food and wine to complement the natural beauty of this city.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team 

P.S. We celebrated the Leopard team of 9 extraordinary women this Women’s Day, read more (and see a beautiful design by Jess) by clicking here.
 

Discovering Madagascar: Nature’s Enigmatic Island Gem

It’s long been a dream of mine to visit Madagascar. In October, I was fortunate enough to set off on a trip of a lifetime to this magical island with my husband and two children, aged 6 and 8. We each arrived with our own set of expectations of what Madagascar would be like. Except for the charismatic ringtailed lemurs, the country was nothing like we imagined. It’s completely unique, economically undeveloped and has extraordinarily limited infrastructure. It’s also far more beautiful than I imagined. The wildlife is more remarkable than you can conceive and the people are the kindest I’ve met.

We did the RN7 route, a road trip that takes travellers along 1000 km of atrocious roads from the capital Antananarivoto to Toliara, on the southwestern coast. This trip is certainly not for everyone, but those who do undertake it will be rewarded with sensational landscapes, beautiful rainforests filled with a jaw-dropping array of vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as villages and towns where you can still observe traditional ways of life and cultural practices. 

Highlights of Madagascar
Ranomofana, Isalo and the spiny forest at Toliara were highlights for me because of their marvellous and strange collection of fauna and flora.

We also experienced a truly special moment as a family in Parc National Andasibe Mantadia, which is relatively close to Tana, in the eastern region. We stayed at Vakôna Forest Lodge and woke to the sound of the indri indri (one of largest lemurs) calling. Later, when we trekked through the rainforest, we came across a small troop that started contact calling. As a family we were in awe. It’s one of those things that needs to be heard to be believed. (Press play on the video below to hear the awesome sound of the indri call, in Andasibe.)

Madagascar is an enormous country and due to very poor logistical connections, it is difficult to see all the most important attractions on one visit, unless you have at least 6 weeks to spend in the country. The RN7 route, which is what we did, is a classic route and the best introduction to the country.

Eastern, Western and Coastal Madagascar
A trip to western Madagascar will allow you to see some of the country’s most iconic sights, but also involves substantial driving. Here you can see the Allée des Baobabs, Réserve Forestière de Kirindy, and the tsingy – a unique geological formation characterised by razor-sharp limestone formations that create a surreal landscape of jagged peaks, deep crevices, and pinnacles.

The east coast is exceptionally difficult to access beyond Île Sainte Marie and so you won’t find many travellers exploring the region, despite its primordial beauty and allure. If you have the time, we suggest spending 7-10 nights at Masoala Forest Lodge. Surrounded by the biodiverse Masoala National Park, the lodge, is set in a sheltered cove, opens onto the warm, coral-rich waters of the Tampolo Marine Reserve and offers a unique and immersive experience for guests.

If exploring the ocean, rich in marine life, appeals to you or if you’d like to relax on pristine white sands next to turquoise waters, Nosy Be and the surrounding islands are also an excellent choice.

If you’re a traveller looking for vibrant nightlife or extensive high-end shopping opportunities, or if you expect the tourism infrastructure to be on par with the highest luxury world standards, Madagascar is not for you. However, travellers who’re interested in wildlife, nature, and conservation will be enthralled by the island’s diverse ecosystems, which includes rainforests, tropical coastlines, mangroves and creatures like the ring-tailed lemurs and colourful chameleons.

I encourage anyone who is interested to visit. The country needs more tourists to prop up their fragile economy. The more people who visit, the more chance the world has of preserving this fragile ecosystem which is undervalued by local people and underdeveloped for tourism. Global Forest Watch (2023) reports that from 2002 to 2021, Madagascar lost 4.36 million hectares of tree cover, equivalent to a 25% decrease in tree cover. Deforestation has resulted in almost all of Madagascar’s flagship lemur species being either endangered or critically endangered (see the full report here).

If we want to preserve the natural wonders of this island for future generations, the time to act is now. Reply to this email to start planning your trip to Madagascar for 2024!

 Happy travelling,
 Diana

P.S. Listen to this video to hear my children hearing the indri calling for the first time

The finest honeymoon destination under African skies

In the same way that you pay attention to the tiniest details to ensure that your wedding day is everything you dreamed of, your honeymoon should be expertly curated. This will allow you to savour every moment of the carefree wonder of being in Africa with your love.

As locally-based African travel experts, we’re on hand 24/7 so that your honeymoon is worry-free and it’s our privilege to help you design the perfect, personalised itinerary. Perhaps you dream of a romantic Southern African safari honeymoon or unwinding on powdery-white tropical beaches. Whether you prefer beach or bush or a combination of both, we’ll help you select the most exclusive, luxury hideaways that cater to all of your desires.

Below are a handful of our favourite destinations in Southern Africa, which imbue which imbue a sense of romance, exclusivity and ultimate relaxation.

Singita’s Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sands, South Africa
Perched above the Sand River, each of the Singita’s Boulders Lodge suites extend onto a spacious private deck with a heated pool and a selection of either uninterrupted river views, or views of the bush. The neutral palette and African-inspired decor add to a sense of calm, while just beyond lies the adventure of experiencing incredible sightings of African animals on a guided game walk or from an open game vehicle. 

Dining at Singita will also allow you to experience the pinnacle of culinary excellence in the bush with Singita’s skilled chefs conjuring up mouthwatering dishes in the new open kitchen. “The introduction of open kitchens, exposing the cooking process, allows guests to interact with the chefs and gain a feel for the different dining experiences in each of the Singita lodges”, says award-winning chef Liam Tomlin who works in collaboration with Singita’s team of chefs.

Singita’s setting in Sabi Sands is not only known for the big five and its high concentrations of other wildlife, but as one of the best places to spot leopards, Whether you see them or not, Singita will no doubt provide you with an exceptional honeymoon destination.

Saseka Tented Camp, Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
Part of the Thornybush collection, Saseka Tented Camp is positioned alongside the Monwana River, in the Greater Kruger Park area. This area is famous for its abundant African wildlife and while sightings are never guaranteed, it’s likely that you’ll experience exceptional safari encounters. 

When you’re not out exploring the bush with a highly informative guide, you can unwind according to the rhythms of nature at the lodge, far away from the disruptions of modern life. Saseka’s nine luxury tents, each have private decks, a pool and an outside shower which blend seamlessly into the surroundings. Visit the spa for a couple’s massage or other relaxing treatment or opt for a private open-air session on your deck.

Rhino Sands, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Set within a riverine forest in the big five Manyoni Private Game Reserve, Rhino Sands provides an intimate experience for its guests, with superb African game-viewing. A Victorian bath raised on four decorative feet, indoor and outdoor showers, a four-poster bed, plush furnishing and a private pool on your raised deck all elevate the classic canvas safari tent into the realm of luxury. The voluminous fabric held aside by curtain ties adds to the atmosphere of an airy retreat in the bush. 

Here you can delve into the history and spirit of KwaZulu-Natal, making your honeymoon a journey through time and nature in what was once the realm of famous warrior and king Shaka Zulu. In addition to guided game drives, you can enquire about joining the conservation team on a pangolin tracking experience to find these gentle creatures, many of which have been rescued from illegal wildlife trafficking and rehabilitated back into the wild.

Azura Benguerra Island, Mozambique
For those dreaming of a tropical beach escape, Azura, on Mozambique’s Benguerra Island beckons with its pristine sands and azure waters encircled by a Marine National Park. This idyllic island escape blends luxury and natural beauty.

Snorkel side by side through vibrant coral reefs, relax on the beach as the waves serenade you, or sip cocktails at the Star Bar as the sun dips over the horizon. Azura offers a range of personalised experiences, from sunset dhow cruises to private beach picnics, allowing you to create an abundance of romantic memories.

Azura’s private villas come with sparkling private pools and direct access to the beach, leaving only footsteps from your room to the warm Indian Ocean. Indulge in spa treatments for couples and enjoy having your every need catered to by personal butlers. These touches will help ensure that your stay is not just memorable but truly exceptional.

andBeyond Benguerra Island, Mozambique
From the moment you step onto the powdery shores, andBeyond Benguerra Island unfolds as a secluded oasis, inviting you to create timeless romantic memories. Situated in the Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of Mozambique, this exclusive island retreat promises a honeymoon experience that transcends the ordinary. 

Accessed by a short helicopter flight from Vilanculos, the arrival at Benguerra Island is a breathtaking experience in itself, with panoramic views of turquoise waters and brilliantly white sands. This quintessential romantic island escape allows you to spend time enjoying each other’s company in an array of ways. 

The resort will ferry you by catamaran to a secluded spot on the island for a castaway picnic set up under an awning, or you can enjoy a dinner under the starlit sky. Spend time snorkelling or scuba diving along the lively coral reefs, riding horses in the ocean shallows, or enjoying a sunset dhow cruise. For the ultimate indulgence, slip away to the island’s massage room, set within a small forest of indigenous trees where you can unwind to the background sound of lapping waves.

In each destination, whether surrounded by the untamed beauty of Sabi Sands, the tranquillity of Thornybush, the historical richness of KwaZulu-Natal, or the tropical paradise of Mozambique’s Benguerra Island, these luxury retreats promise an intimate escape beneath the vast and enchanting African skies.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

Sustainable travel: Exploring Africa responsibly and making a positive impact

Sustainable travel is the cornerstone of our values at Leopard. It’s not just a trend but it can have a transformative influence that helps preserve Africa’s incredible natural beauty and cultural heritage.

A few things we recommend include slow travel, getting to know the culture in the area you visit and respecting wildlife and the natural habitat. When you travel, you can help support the local community by eating regional specialities prepared from fresh and local produce and buying locally made artisanal products. You can also reduce your water and electricity consumption, especially in water-stressed areas. 

No person (or business) is perfect in this, however, we feel it’s important to do the best we can and to join forces with those who have similar goals. The Long Run is a sustainable development organisation with a sustainability framework known as the 4Cs — Conservation, Community, Commerce, and Culture. 

There are many lodges and communities in Africa that exemplify these principles. We thought we’d share a few practical ways these are being lived out in different spaces.

Conservation
Many people and organisations work together to conserve and protect Africa’s biodiversity, from government agencies, game rangers, anti-poaching units, lodges, travellers, volunteers and NGOs to businesses. They work to protect everything from flower species on the Cape’s West Coast to the famous Big 5 and lesser-known creatures like the pangolin. 

Temminck’s ground pangolins that have been rescued from the illegal wildlife trade are treated and rehabilitated at Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital. Once stable they are tagged and released into suitable places like Phinda and Manyoni Private Game Reserves in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province, where they once roamed freely. As a visitor to these special places, you can join rangers in tracking pangolins for a truly unique wildlife experience. Similarly, you can join a rhino notching or a rhino dehorning experience at Phinda or join a cheetah tracking walk at Marataba. There are many comparable experiences throughout Africa’s parks and game reserves and the money generated from these activities goes back into conservation.

Community
Wilderness, a conservation and hospitality company, made up of a collective of over 60 lodges in Africa, aims to help you sustainably forge close connections with nature. Local communities surrounding its camps benefit through payments for concession use, job creation, and increased economic activity. Wilderness also finances small-scale businesses and farmers that feed into the tourism supply chain, benefiting the community directly via tourism. 

One example is Desert Rhino Lodge situated in Namibia’s remote Damaraland. The lodge works closely with Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, which employs local community members as rhino trackers in the area. Additionally, Wilderness supports ‘Children of the Wilderness,’ an NGO promoting sustainable conservation through leadership development and education for children in Africa.

Commerce
One of Leopard’s meaningful collaborations is with Kay, a skilled artisan who showcases his carved creations on a street corner in Johannesburg. Leopard sources unique handcrafted gifts from Kay, which we give our clients as a memento of their trip to Africa. This provides a reliable source of income for him, and every gift we buy broadens his horizons and creates more opportunities for him. Leopard also works with a team of talented women, helping to empower women in business in South Africa and believes in doing business responsibly. 

Culture
Travelling to off-the-beaten-track destinations in Africa is a way of supporting local communities in much need of upliftment. Examples of this within South Africa include visiting provinces like the Eastern Cape and the Northern Cape.

Besides its cities, the Eastern Cape is the home to many rural Xhosa-speaking South Africans. Here you could learn about the culture and history while supporting local people, for example, at the Ngxingxolo Cultural Village. This cultural interaction was pioneered by Xhosa cultural activist Winifred Tofu to showcase authentic Xhosa culture and is now run by her daughter Zinzi. A way of showing your support for this community is to buy some of their traditional beadwork or even spend a night in a simple rondavel (hut) in the village.

The Northern Cape is a large arid, sparsely populated province and tourism provides much-needed income to this area. Jan Hendrick, South Africa’s first chef with a Michelin Star has a restaurant here at Tswalu Kalahari Private Reserve. The restaurant tries to source its ingredients sustainably and has worked alongside locals to improve the produce they provide. Diana Granoux interviewed head chef Marnus Scholly who explained how the restaurant sources ingredients sustainably. Scholly said, “We try to tap into the local knowledge on how to use foraged food – to give a sense of intensity with each plate of food. It’s not easy to run out and forage something, especially out here. Each plant takes longer to grow and takes a bit more care to get to where we want it. Having a diverse cultural team also makes the food very special.” (Listen to the full interview here.)

We’ve barely skimmed the surface with the examples we shared above. However, you can rest assured that when you travel through Africa with Leopard, you can feel good. Not only do you get to explore beautiful destinations but the money you spend as a tourist has a positive impact on the continent.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S. If you’d like to share your favourite sustainable travel tips, we’d love to hear from you.

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5 of the Best African travel destinations for 2024

1. Madagascar
Enjoy the fragrance of tropical blossoms afloat on the gentle sea breeze on islands off the coast of Madagascar, such as Nosy Be, known for its underwater life that draws scuba divers and other ocean lovers.

Arrive by helicopter on Time + Tide’s Miavana, on Nosy Ankao private island, which provides perhaps the pinnacle of luxury in Madagascar. You’ll have a private butler and privacy, space and time contribute to the ultimate island relaxation among the dense forests, sandy shoreline and vibrant reefs. 

For those who prefer a more raw and authentic experience of Madagascar, the mainland offers adventure in abundance. Travel can be a little arduous on roads that are less than perfect, however, the natural beauty and biodiversity creates an insatiable appetite for more in those who visit. Get to see iconic ring tailed lemurs up close in the Anja Community Reserve, visit the Avenue of Baobabs, swim in crystal clear waters in the Masoala Peninsula or Île Saint Marie. 

Leopard’s Founder and Director, Diana Granoux visited Madagascar in October and had this to say, “What a magical place! The scenery and wildlife are unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and the people are so kind and lovely.

If you don’t mind dealing with a lack of infrastructure and inconvenient logistics, add this country to your bucket list for 2024. They certainly need tourists and Madagascar has so much to offer the intrepid traveller!”



2. Tanzania
The Serengeti is an essential stop if you’re visiting Tanzania for the first time and we recommend splitting your stay here into two different camps to explore its varied offering. We love the all female-run Dunia Camp in central Serengeti. It is a good idea to choose a second location in the Serengeti based on the time of year you are travelling and whether you would like to experience the migration. It’s also worth exploring the country’s many other highlights.

The Ngorongoro Crater is incredibly scenic and from lions to elephant, wildlife is abundant. This stop also offers a chance to visit an authentic Masai village within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or enjoy the Empakaai caldera or Olmoti caldera rim hikes. 

Tarangire stands out as an exceptionally beautiful park, renowned for its extensive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. In contrast to the Serengeti which can get busy, Tarangire offers a more tranquil setting. 



3. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a firm favourite of travellers to South Africa. It’s favoured for its natural splendour, food, and fine wines. 

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a hub of activity where people gather to enjoy the sights and sounds of this vibrant harbour and enjoy food, drink and entertainment. In addition to those at the Waterfront, some of Cape Town’s must-visit restaurants include Fyn, The Conservancy at Cellars Hohenort and Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic. 

Take the cableway to the top of Table Mountain or for those who’d like to explore on foot, you can do a guided hike to the top. There are also guided walks through the Bo Kaap, with its brightly coloured houses, where you can enjoy Cape Malay cooking, or try the Constantia Wine Walk. This curated journey will take you to three wine farms where you’ll stroll through vineyards, taste 10 different wines and savour a platter of eats, all while learning more about the areas’ history, including the legendary soirées at Groot Constantia. Other Cape Town highlights include visiting the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach, Robben Island and the picture perfect Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.



4. Okavango Delta, Botswana
Botswana’s Okavango, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons travellers with its unique blend of water and wilderness. This part of Africa assures a safari adventure unlike any other with small chartered flights bringing you into the heart of the world’s largest inland delta. Once in this game-rich environment, sustained by the life-giving waters, you can explore by boat, game drive vehicle, on foot, horseback or by helicopter (which we always recommend). You can read about Diana’s recent stay at Beagle Expeditions, a luxury mobile camp in the Delta, here. 

Botswana regulates the number of visitors to this area to reduce human impact on this important conservation area, however, there are a few new lodges set to open in 2024. We are most excited about Wild Expedition’s Karangoma Camp opening in May 2024. Contact us if you’d like to be one of their first guests! 



5. Zambia 
Besides sharing Victoria Falls with Zimbabwe, Zambia is perhaps less well known than some of its southern African neighbouring countries, however, it’s unquestionably among the continent’s top safari destinations. With its many waterways such as those in Kafue and South Luangwa National Parks you can experience a safari similar to those in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, yet at a more affordable rate.

Conservationist Norman Carr pioneered the walking safari in South Luangwa, believing that discovering the African wilderness on foot provides visitors with an immersive experience, and a unique connection with nature. Along with traditional game drives, walking safaris in Zambia are a highlight.

Seasonal events such as the massive annual bat migrations in Kasanka National Park and the Kuomboka Festival, where a ceremonial boat with a replica of an elephant on top, which celebrates the Lozi king’s journey from the floodplain to higher ground, are also drawcards. 



Happy travelling in 2024 and beyond,

The Leopard Team

P.S. Get in touch if you’d like help planning an amazing holiday to Africa in 2024!

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What you’ve missed. A look back at 2023.

You’ve understandably been busy with your own adventures and happenings in 2023 – and even if you have travelled with Leopard this year, it’s likely that you’ve missed some of what we’ve been up to. We’ve made it easy to catch up by listing some highlights below to inspire your travels in 2024.

I’ve hardly had a minute to reflect on the year that was. It has been a whirlwind of activity from start to finish. I’m not complaining, though, because during the Covid years I only dreamed of being this busy planning holidays for clients.

This year was a record-breaking year for us. My most proud achievement is that 384 people travelled with Leopard in 2023. They collectively spent 3,927 nights on a Leopard-planned holiday in one of the 15 countries we offer holidays to. All of these vacations ran seamlessly, which is no easy task and requires teamwork and organisation on an epic scale! 

Some other personal highlights were:

• A trip to San Francisco to meet current and future clients in March. 
• The Leopard workshop in Johannesburg with all 6 team members from around the country, followed by two days in the bush, in April.
• A trip to Mashatu in Botswana in May, together with my family and close friends. Read my tips on taking young children on safari here. 
• A trip to Tanzania where I did the northern safari circuit and visited many lodges in the Seregenti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, in June. 
• A trip to the Sabi Sand to visit lodges there in July.
• A trip to the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Lake Kariba and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe in October. You can read more about that trip here and here. 
• A trip to Madagascar in October. I will write about my experience on this magical island in early 2024, look out for that!

In addition to my lodge visits above, Daphnée visited Namibia, Mauritius, Qwabi, Kwandwe, Manyeleti and Madikwe. We invest time and money in visiting lodges and hotels is because this helps us offer our clients the best, most up to date advice on where to stay and what to do. It is the Leopard difference, and we look forward to doing more of the same in 2024!

I wish you all a wonderful end to 2023, and a great start to 2024 with lots of lovely travel plans for the upcoming year. 

Happy travelling,

Diana

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Zanzibar, Nosy Be and Bazaruto: African Island Bliss

Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, Tanzania’s Zanzibar Archipelago and Madagascar’s Nosy Be Archipelago all offer unique Indian Ocean island experiences. While you can enjoy luxurious retreats, you’ll also be likely to witness daily life on an African island, with fishermen bringing their catches on shore or ladies selling spices and other wares in local markets. These destinations promise a splendid blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and tropical waters, making each visit a distinct and unforgettable.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

If you veer off the tourist path on Unguja (the main island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, typically called Zanzibar), you’ll find retreats like The Residence and the Zuri Zanzibar Hotel. Situated on Kendwa’s tranquil beachside slope, Zuri offers a unique escape, complete with a creative library and the open-air Peponi Bar adorned with recycled bottle lamps. The decor incorporates elements inspired by Zanzibari tradition, including carved door frames, and much of the contemporary wooden furniture is handcrafted from reclaimed local dhows.

Historical sites like the Princess Salme Museum at Emerson Spice offer insights into Zanzibar’s heritage. Sayyida Salme, the daughter of the first Omani Sultan of Zanzibar is known for secretly teaching herself to write by copying Quranic calligraphy onto camel bone.

Stone Town’s ornate doors provide photographic opportunities, and other popular activities include visiting Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to observe red colobus monkeys or taking a spice tour on the island. Enjoy a ride on a traditional dhow, a sunset cruise or go dolphin watching by boat. Kizimkazi, in southern Zanzibar, is a prime location for dolphin encounters. You can also explore mangrove forests in kayaks near Chwaka Bay, or snorkel in the island’s crystal-clear water. Visit the Mnarani Turtle Conservation Project in Nungwi on the northern tip of Zanzibar, with its natural lagoon conservation pond.

Zanzibar (Unguja) is often called the “Spice Island” because of its historical significance as a major producer of fragrant spices such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom. The island also offers a rich culinary tradition influenced by Swahili, Indian, Arabian, and Persian flavours. Dishes worth trying include coconut-infused seafood stews, freshly caught spiced grilled fish, spice-infused tea and coconut ugali.

Mnemba Island, part of the Zanzibar archipelago, is a 15-minute boat ride from Unguja. Its protected marine reserve is ideal for snorkelling and diving, much like nearby Pemba Island. When staying at andBeyond Mnemba Island Resort, which describes itself as “an exclusive barefoot paradise”, you can enjoy romantic candlelit dinners served on the beach, drinks at the ocean-facing bar or have meals delivered to your banda (luxurious beach cottage).

The Underwater Room at Manta Resort off Pemba Island, in the Zanzibar Archipelago, provides a unique experience with its submerged chamber surrounded by turquoise waters. Schools of reef fish glide by your window. For those who prefer a more grounded stay, Manta Resort’s garden or ocean-facing suites on Pemba Island offer serenity at a resort committed to community-based tourism.

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, an unspoiled paradise in the Indian Ocean, comprises five islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina, and Bangue. The charming coastal town of Vilanculos, on the mainland Mozambique, is the gateway to this tropical haven.

The sandy beaches here provide nesting grounds for leatherback, loggerhead and green turtles, while a variety of mammals, birds and reptiles also make their home on the five islands, which are protected within the Bazaruto National Park. This protection extends to the species of fish that live in this part of the Indian Ocean too, making it a snorkellers’ and divers’ playground among the vibrant tapestry of colours beneath the ocean’s surface. 

From both Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Islands, you can enjoy activities like setting sail on a traditional dhow, horse riding on the beach or spending the morning on a chartered boat. A day out by boat allows you to cruise to secluded beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters or search for elusive dugongs which gracefully forage in seagrass meadows around the archipelago. 

There’s also the possibility of seeing and swimming with dolphins or watching migrating humpback whales breach on the horizon (in season). For those who enjoy fishing, this area is also excellent for game fishing for marlin and sailfish.

In Vilanculos, on the mainland, you can enjoy spa treatments and yoga retreats at Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel and dishes like spicy-dressed blue crab, mango and avocado salad. For more casual dining, enjoy a fresh seafood platter and a glass of wine or a beer at Sand Dollar, which serves tasty local food with great views.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

Nosy Be is often called the “Perfumed Island” due to its abundant fragrant ylang-ylang, frangipani and vanilla orchids. It’s situated off the northwest coast of Madagascar.

Among its beautiful beaches, the most renowned is Andilana, nestled on the island’s northwestern tip. It’s a place of pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters and awe-inspiring sunsets. Nosy Be’s neighbouring islands also offer breathtaking beaches. Notably, Nosy Iranja boasts a slender stretch of pearly white sand that also serves as a crucial sea turtle hatchery. Meanwhile, Nosy Sakatia combines picturesque beaches with the presence of rare bird species and native flora, adding to the island’s natural allure.

You can also experience excellent diving and snorkelling around Nosy Be along its vibrant coral reefs, home to a wealth of tropical fish, rays, turtles and sharks. And when you’re not relaxing under palm trees or enjoying Malagasy cuisine, like Romazava and Mokary, you could opt to visit the lush paradise of Lokobe Nature Reserve or visit the markets to buy vanilla pods. 

A visit to Madagascar would only be complete with seeing its iconic lemurs. From Nosy Be take a boat trip to Nosy Komba, affectionately known as Lemur Island. As its name implies, is teeming with these endearing creatures.

Happy Travelling,
The Leopard Team

We’d love to hear which of these three destinations appeals to you the most. Reply to this email with a 1 for Zanzibar, a 2 for Bazaruto, or a 3 for Nosy Be.

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My Journey to Zimbabwe’s Watery Splendours: Lake Kariba and Victoria Falls

After the adventure and excitement of camping and walking in the wilderness at Beagle Expeditions and Camp Hwange, my next stop was Fothergill Island on the banks of Lake Kariba, where I could enjoy a bit of luxury and fluffy white towels!

Lake Kariba has a special place in my heart. I spent the first two years of my life living in Kariba town where my parents worked as scientists on the lake. Helen (who is part of the Leopard team) also spent much of her childhood here and her father Frank Junor, was involved in Operation Noah alongside Rupert Fothergill, for whom Fothergill Island was named. 

Operation Noah was a daring rescue mission which took place in the late 1950s, when the Kariba Dam wall was constructed and the rising waters threatened to submerge countless animals stranded on the islands that emerged in the lake. Led by Rupert Fothergill, an intrepid game ranger, Operation Noah involved the extraordinary rescue and relocation of numerous animals, including elephants, rhinos, and various other wildlife species. These heroic efforts captured the world’s attention and showcased the indomitable spirit of humanity in safeguarding the natural world. 

Helen’s mother, Jean Junor, wrote the following about Kariba, which I think beautifully sums up the place: “Imagine a place of eternal summer. A place where the sunshine is only broken by passing magnificent, electrical storms. A wilderness with electricity. A little village woven into the bush, on the shores of a very beautiful lake.” Helen says that, “Kariba will always be my home, a place where freedom, wildness, balance and harmony converge in a perfectly orchestrated symphony.” 

The Zimbabwean owners of Fothergill Island have invested enormous sums of money to create this world class resort on the banks of the Kariba Dam. Beside the creature comforts, the resort’s custom-designed boats have all the latest technology for navigation and locating fish. My fellow traveller and new friend, Olivia, managed to catch the biggest fish I’ve ever seen! It was a 34 kg (75 pound) vundu (catfish), which was weighed and released back into the lake. The African sunsets here live up to the best you can imagine and for anyone looking for the ultimate relaxing family holiday or couples/friends getaway, Fothergill delivers abundantly. We also did a fascinating tour of Kariba town, which I highly recommend.

Our final stop on this incredible journey was Matetsi, a gorgeous lodge situated on the banks of the Zambezi River close to Victoria Falls. The rooms were modern and beautifully designed, with plush armchairs, a comfortable bed and air conditioning, which was a welcome relief from the intense October heat. 

Unchecked hunting and poaching destroyed much of the wildlife in Matetsi in the last century, but its transformation over time to a wildlife conservation area means that it now boasts diverse and flourishing populations of wildlife, including elephants, wild dogs, lions, buffalo, and various antelope species. The safari experience we had here was truly impressive and could compete with the best in Africa. 

Matetsi’s luxury suites, with their view over the Zambezi are so comfortable that you may never want to leave. If you do, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Since childhood, I’ve visited the Falls often and no matter how many times I find myself standing in front of this impressive wall of water, I always find it an awe-inspiring and humbling experience. The sheer scale of the falls, with its immense curtain of water plummeting into the chasm below, is what makes this one of Africa’s most iconic attractions. 

As my time in Zimbabwe drew to a close, I spent the last day of my 41st year on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi river. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky became a canvas of fiery oranges and red, casting a golden glow over the tranquil waters and we toasted the past year and to another journey around the sun.

Happy travelling,
Diana

P.S. Helen’s sister has written a children’s book about Operation Noah called The Great Animal Rescue. It will be available for sale worldwide in December. Find out more on her website.

P.P.S. Read more about rhino conservation and Operation Noah on our blog and reply to this email with the word “Zimbabwe” if you’d like to find out more about visiting one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls and/or enjoy a Zimbabwean safari.

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