Offbeat Luxury Adventure Safari
Destination
Botswana & South Africa
Travel Period
January – December
Duration
14 days | 13 nights
Johannesburg, affectionately referred to by locals as “Jozi” or “Joburg,” is the largest city in South Africa and one of the 50 largest urban areas in the world. Though not traditionally a tourist destination, Johannesburg is a transit point for connecting domestic and international flights and has become a cultural hub, with museums, theaters, art galleries, and libraries. There are opportunities for shopping at upmarket shopping centers like Sandton City, the Mall of Africa, and Nelson Mandela Square and, for souvenirs and African art, at flea markets like Oriental Plaza and the Rosebank Flea Market.
Johannesburg is the home of the Constitutional Court, the highest court in South Africa, and tours to the Apartheid Museum often combine a visit to Constitution Hill. Other attractions include former townships like Alexandra and Soweto where visitors learn about South Africa’s apartheid history. The Mandela Museum, located in the former home of Nelson Mandela, is located in Soweto.
The Peech is an award-winning boutique hotel located in the leafy suburb of Melrose, Johannesburg, set within two acres of lush gardens. Originally a private residence, the hotel now offers a refined urban retreat with 32 stylish rooms and suites across four accommodation types, two outdoor swimming pools, discreet personal service, and high-end amenities. Guests enjoy exceptional dining at two on-site restaurants, including the renowned Pot Luck Club Johannesburg, as well as relaxed garden spaces, a cozy bar, and a tranquil atmosphere just minutes from Sandton, Rosebank, and the city’s main business and shopping districts.
Classic Room
The Classic Rooms offer comfortable and elegant accommodation in a 40 m² layout, ideal for up to two adults. Each room features a king-size bed or twin beds, an en-suite bathroom with both a bath and a separate rain shower, and either a private balcony or patio overlooking the hotel’s lush gardens. Modern amenities include air conditioning, a Nespresso machine, and a TV with streaming facilities, providing a relaxed and well-appointed stay.
The Northern Tuli Game Reserve is a hidden gem. Tucked in the easternmost corner of Botswana, it is a unique, timeless part of Africa with spectacular wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history.
The Northern Tuli Game Reserve is scenically unique in Botswana, with magnificent topography and varied habitats: dominant basalt formations and large areas of sandstone hills, networks of (mostly dry) riverbeds, riverine forests; as well as open grasslands and marshy areas. From vantage points on top of the rock formations, the plains below stretch as far as the eye can see.
It is an extremely productive wildlife area, home to the largest herds of elephant on private land in Africa, as well as a high-density predator population. Combine this with 92% rain-free days, and you have the perfect blue-sky safari year-round.
Mashatu Game Reserve
As the largest private game reserve in Botswana, at 31,000 hectares (76,600 acres) and one of the largest in southern Africa, Mashatu is an appropriate setting for the world’s largest land mammal, the elephant, the world’s tallest mammal, the giraffe and king of the beasts, the lion. In addition to these notorious mammals, some of the fascinating Mashatu giants include the world’s largest antelope, the eland, the world’s largest bird, the ostrich, the world’s heaviest flying bird, the kori bustard and iconic, ancient baobab trees. This in addition to daily sightings of all the sought after predators!
Mashatu Euphorbia Villas comprises 5-star safari villas, offering a private escape into the heart of Mashatu’s wilderness. Inspired by the Mopane pod’s graceful form, eight villas stand as a testament to the region’s intricate beauty. An oasis of space awaits, adorned with indoor and outdoor showers, private plunge pools, and incredible views of the surrounding wilderness.
The villas offer exclusive views of the wilderness, a private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers and a ‘loo with a view,’ air-conditioning, as well as wifi in all villas and communal areas.
On arrival, you will find the unique “nest” deck that overlooks the reserve and tranquil ravine below, offering a spectacular view over Mashatu Game Reserve.
Nights are adorned with fireside enchantment, where up-lit euphorbia candelabra trees set the stage for intimate and flavor-filled dining beneath the stars.
Villa
The unique shape of the villas draws inspiration from the local Mopane pod. This is a significant tree, as it is the predominant food source for many animals during the dry months of the year. Curves and unique shapes are molded with local raw materials, ensuring the villas exude an earthy sense of glamour. Complete with solar-heated, private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor showers, a primary WC, and a second ‘loo with a view,’ the villas embody the ultimate safari retreat.
With many ways to explore the reserve, Mashatu Euphorbia Villas offers an antidote to the traditional Botswana experience, redefining the luxury, immersive wildlife experience. From mountain biking to walking, horseback riding, or enjoying the renowned underground photographic hide, guests can enjoy action-filled days out in the wilderness while returning each evening to an ambience of natural elegance and comfort.
Exclusivity takes center stage, with just four guests per safari vehicle.
The Waterberg Biosphere Reserve is a mountainous massif of approximately 1.6 million acres in the northern part of Limpopo Province. The Waterberg, as the name implies, serves as a water reservoir for this arid region and is known for its natural beauty, bushveld savannah, and large animal population. The area has been inhabited over hundreds of thousands of years and is one of the most important San rock art areas in South Africa.
Marataba Mountain Lodge is a secluded retreat set within the Waterberg mountain range, offering a rare sense of exclusivity and immersion in nature. Fully solar powered, the lodge is designed in harmony with its surroundings, with a Scandinavian-inspired simplicity that allows it to blend seamlessly into the landscape. With just five luxury rooms, the experience is intimate and refined; each room features clean lines, natural textures, and a muted stone palette, creating a calm space that keeps the focus firmly on the wilderness beyond.
The main lodge provides inviting social spaces, including an open-plan dining and lounge area that extends onto an expansive viewing deck overlooking dramatic scenery and thriving wildlife. Evenings gather around the firepit under vast starry skies, while the infinity pool appears to flow into Waterfall Valley below, enhancing the sense of connection to the surrounding environment.
Luxury Room
Designed for two guests, each Luxury Room at Marataba Mountain Lodge embodies understated elegance. Spanning 40 m², the space features a king-size bed, a wood-burning fireplace, a minibar, a Nespresso machine, and a rain shower open to the mountain air. A private, shaded terrace offers a serene setting for quiet moments, with sweeping views across Waterfall Valley.
At Marataba Mountain Lodge, guests can explore the landscape on twice-daily game drives and guided bush walks, encountering the Big Five and observing wildlife in its natural rhythm. Activities extend beyond the vehicle, with specialist hiking trails, tranquil sunset water safaris along the Matlabas River, and the opportunity to sleep beneath the stars in a secluded treehouse.
The experience is further enriched by expert field guides who reveal both the land and sky, from tracking animals to pointing out constellations in the unpolluted night. Guests can take part in seasonal rhino conservation efforts or visit nearby community learning centres, offering insight into local life. For families, shared adventures and hands-on activities encourage curiosity, ensuring memorable connections with both nature and one another.
Day 7 – Marataba Treehouse
Romantics and adventurers, discover the magic of a night truly out in Africa. Miles away from lodge life, yet luxurious – and all yours. Arrive at dusk to a treat-laden picnic and watch as the views unfold in pure, unspoiled drama under the stars. Come morning, it’s worth taking your coffee at sunrise.
The Treehouse Experience is booked in conjunction with accommodation at the lodge of your choice, at an additional cost person, per night. Your room remains ready for your return at any point. You’ll pack a stay-over bag with the essentials, leaving the rest of your belongings safe back at the lodge.
A night out in Africa calls for al fresco dining, lit by lanterns and stars. In your Treehouse, you’ll find a basket packed with a gourmet, tapas-style picnic and a cooler box of chilled drinks. Celebrating a particularly special occasion? Ask about our Champagnes. Sit down for dinner on your blanket or table on the deck, as the setting sun over the plains and sounds of the evening create an idyllic ambiance.
As you look out over the bush from your Treehouse hideout, the animals go about their business undisturbed by your presence. Birds flit by and you could spot anything from an antelope to a leopard wander past. As night falls, the sounds of the wild carry through the cool air and you’ll fall asleep to an African lullaby of chirps, distant growls, and the rustle of the breeze through the leaves.
The animals aren’t the only thing you’ll spot out here… Through the dark night and crisp, clear air, stars by their millions appear. From your Treehouse in the remote African wilderness, you’ll be able to see across the heavens, not usually visible to the naked eye. To help you identify the constellations, planets and even the odd passing satellite, we’ll leave you with a stargazing app.
Rest assured, our Treehouses have been securely constructed above the ground, where the animals remain at a safe and comfortable distance. Your field guide will drive you to your Treehouse and provide a full orientation, before departing. However, they will stay on call via two-way radio, should you need assistance, until the following day when you are collected after sunrise and your morning coffee.
Cape Town is a true fan favorite, with its exciting Mediterranean vibe, amazing culinary scene, beautiful Cape Dutch architecture, thriving art community, and successful sports teams – all set to the backdrop of iconic Table Mountain and the turbulent waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It is no wonder it is called The Mother City. This vibrant, trendy city has broad appeal. Local attractions include Table Mountain, Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, Bo-Kaap, boutique shops, numerous museums, wineries, and world famous restaurants. For those venturing beyond the city, the Cape Winelands and Cape Peninsula are a day trip away.
Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage dates back more than 300 years and its diversity is evident in the city’s architecture, art, and food. It is the second most populous city in South Africa and sits at the southwest tip of Africa.
At Cape Cadogan, you truly get the best of both worlds: a peaceful oasis amidst the vibrant energy of Cape Town’s Kloof Street Neighborhood.
This historic hotel has been thoughtfully revitalized in collaboration with local artisans, who infused its design with elegant accents of emerald green, timeless black and white, and a subtle touch of gold sparkle. Each of the 19 rooms effortlessly blends classic charm with modern luxury, offering an inviting and indulgent retreat.
Cape Cadogan embodies a holistic commitment to wellness. The spa offers soothing treatments, and the gym is equipped with essential facilities. Guests can relax in the sunroom, reminiscent of a charming Victorian home, or unwind by one of the two pools while enjoying refreshing beverages. The prized restaurant, Upper Union, is a renowned dining destination in Cape Town.
As the epitome of a stylish urban retreat, Cape Cadogan curates the finest experiences, ensuring every stay in Cape Town is truly memorable.
One Bedroom Stable Suite
Stable Suites at Cape Cadogan offer the most spacious accommodation, starting from 646 ft² (60 m²), and are designed for privacy and flexibility. Each suite features a king-size bed (which can be converted to a ¾ twin bed set), an en-suite bathroom, a lounge, and a bar area, with select suites including a courtyard or Juliet balcony. Thoughtfully appointed, the suites include air conditioning, satellite television, a secure safe, a mini-bar, a direct-dial telephone, a hairdryer, and complimentary high-speed wifi. You can also enjoy organic TheraNaka amenities, plush robes, and slippers for added luxury.
Location is everything, and the Kloof Street neighborhood offers an authentic glimpse into local life with its vibrant, village-like charm. Here, you can immerse yourself in the heartbeat of the city between your Cape adventures—discover hidden shopping gems, satisfy your foodie cravings, or catch a captivating show, all just steps away. Best of all, the hotel is just minutes by road from Cape Town’s most iconic attractions, putting the best of the city right at your doorstep.
Active Peninsula
The Cape Peninsula is a complete contrast to the more cosmopolitan city. With its wild national parks, artistic bohemian seaside villages and working fishing harbours this day will be about embracing the locals and spending as much time out of the vehicle as possible. Our first stop is for Cape Town’s coolest coffee spot at Muizenberg’s Surfers Corner the epicentre of South Africa’s surf culture. We head to Simon’s Town to find our own rogue penguins on a local beach. Snorkel and stand-up paddle in sheltered coves, getting a unique perspective of the penguins (weather permitting).
After visiting Cape Point, we’ll venture deeper into the Peninsula to explore secluded wild beaches, lesser-known coves, rock pools and shipwreck hiking trails away from the tourist crowds. This part of the Table Mountain National Park is home to ostrich, baboons, tortoises and mountain zebra. Our return journey along the Atlantic side is a story of amazing views, hidden local cafes and watering holes full of character. We stop en-route for a sundowner at a local hang-out, wrapping up our day out.
Please note: During your morning brief your guide may advise changing the route of your tour to allow for us to beat any pending crowds into certain areas during peak seasons, so that we can spend maximum time exploring outside the vehicle.
Quirky Cape Town
This is the grittier, real Cape Town. Edgy, artsy and bursting with culinary flavour and creativity. We don’t call Cape Town the ‘Mother City’ just because it is the highlight of SA. When you come into contact with some of our mesmerizing locals who take their skill set to outta-this-world levels of expertise and resourcefulness, you may well come to believe that “mother city” is code for “mother ship”. Our first point is the top of the mountain, the cable car spreading the city out before our eyes as we rise above the rest of the world.
Cape Town’s inner-city streets are a treasure trove of fashion and jewellery boutiques, studios, quirky home décor, atmospheric pubs, craft beers and concept stores. We’ll touch on some of the city’s lesser known historical facts, shipwreck stories and possibly meet a few of the captivating characters behind the roasteries, distilleries and workshops.
Craft beer and gin tasting at a local distillery or brewery, caps a well-rounded day!
Explore The Winelands: Sky Edition
Take to the skies as you depart from the V&A Waterfront and enjoy views of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and the Cape Town city bowl before heading into the winelands and seeing a patchwork of farms far below you. A secret stop atop a mountain (weather permitting) will give you time to enjoy a short walk to take in the views. Awaken your senses with a wine tasting experience at an iconic estate.
Soak up the scenery of this wonderful region, admire a contemporary art collection, see the highest-growing vines and take in breath-taking vistas from an elevated vantage point. Discover the town of Franschhoek, established by the French Huguenots in 1688, where historic charm blends with a contemporary ambiance. The town boasts a host of boutiques, gourmet restaurants and galleries. Continue to some family-owned, off-the-beaten-track estates for a more intimate, boutique wine tasting experience, before returning to Cape Town.
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