Safari & Beach

Dream Team: Safari & Beach

 

Spend a holiday on the trail of the famous Big Five followed by a spell on the beach at some of the world’s most breathtakingly beautiful seaside destinations. A winning combination that INTOSOL offers, for example, by combining South Africa with Mozambique. 

Fly from Europe to Johannesburg and on to the Kruger Mpumalanga Airport in Nelspruit. Here, your best option is to stay for one or two nights to explore the Sabie Region and the natural wonders of the Blyde River Canyon.

The Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world. However, in contrast to its rivals, the Grand Canyon in the USA and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia, it is not dry and harsh but lush and colourful. 

Famous lookouts like the Three Rondavels or the God’s Window as well as peculiar rock formations like the Bourke’s Luck Potholes make the Blyde River Canyon a sensationally diverse region. And then, there are the countless waterfalls and quaint little towns like the old gold miner dwelling Pilgrims Rest.

Your exclusive home away from home could be the luxurious Cybele Forest Lodge. The elaborate cuisine as well as the exciting Forest Spa deserve the highest praise. The Cybele’s chalets are harmoniously integrated into their pristine surroundings.

Those with a fancy for views will adore the Tanamera Lodge: Set high atop a hillside, it commands a phenomenal view of the Sabie River rushing through the green valley far below.

The Blyde River Canyon boasts such heart touching beauty it is hard to leave... However, your next destination will be fair compensation. The Chitwa Chitwa Lodge is certainly one of the world’s finest and fairest safari lodges. It is located on a lake that accommodates a herd of hippos. Here you live and breathe and feel authentic Africa flair. 

The calls of the hippopotamus will be your lullaby. And throughout the day, settle down on the deck to observe the many species that come down to the lake for a drink. Highly trained rangers take you out into the bush on safari.

It is quite an experience to come eye to eye with Africa’s famous Big Five. And best of all: INTOSOL has negotiated a “three for two” deal with the Chitwa Chitwa Lodge!!!

Talking wildlife, Sabi Sands is considered one of the most densely populated regions of the world. Of course, the abundance of prey attracts a fair share of predators, among them leopards and lions. 

There are numerous superb luxury lodges available to choose from. Those that deserve extra mention include the top-of-the-range accommodations Singita Boulders and Ebony, Lion Sands and Sabi Sabi. 

After a few exciting days spent on big game safari it is time to turn towards the beaches: the Bazaruto Islands off the coast of Mozambique. Quite conveniently, the islands are only a one and a half to two hour flight away from Nelspruit.

Geologically, the Bazaruto Islands are a remnant of the Limpopo River that once upon a time ran through these regions. And more than that, they are one of the last true beach paradises. 

Sand dunes reach almost 120 metres into the air on one side, whether the other side boasts tropical, palm tree fringed beaches. A savannah landscape dotted with fan palms lies in between. 

Thanks to stringent conservancy efforts, the main island Bazaruto offers only two, the second largest island Benguerra three hotel resorts. A maximum of 100 to 200 guests share 50 to 80 kilometres of pristine sand beaches. Moreover, vibrant coral reefs offer superb diving.

Directly on the beach of Benguerra Island, hiding between coconut palm trees, lies one of Africa’s finest beach resorts: The AZURA Retreat. Superbly luxurious villas with a private pool as well as the legendary service set the AZURA Retreat apart. 

Your private butler pampers you at every possible opportunity: a romantic beach dinner, your favourite sundowner cocktail and other charming courtesies are some of his tricks. Best of all, INTOSOL is able to offer you specials deals for the AZURA Retreat.

Those that set great store by activities and water sports may also consider the outstanding Indigo Bay Resort. Slightly larger than the AZURA Retreat, the Indigo Bay Resort offers everything from excellently furnished beach chalets and family chalets to the exclusive Presidential Villas. 

Unfortunately, with snorkelling, diving, boat safaris, island hopping and endless walks on deserted beaches…. time flies by quick. The Bazaruto Islands will absolutely delight you!

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