Summer Jan/Feb 2017 - Tortilis News
Alex Johnston
ANVIL BAY, Maputo Special Reserve, Mozambique
This January we welcome another member to the Tortilis family – Anvil Bay has recently joined the Tortilis Team complementing our Southern African portfolio with the most pristine beach lodge.
There are few places where you can revel in the marvels of the Indian ocean and have your arrival trumpeted by an Elephant (true story!). On a recent visit to better acquaint ourselves with all things Mozambique… a big bull elephant made a mock charge at the vehicle as we approached the lodge. He was peacefully enjoying his late afternoon browse and was disturbed by the first transfer vehicle, so proceeded to pass on the message to us! It made for a fantastic first impression and the rest of the stay didn’t disappoint. Azure seas, lazy rockpool snorkelling, fascinating dune forest walks….
Contact us for rates, specials, and the latest information on this beautiful lodge.
www.anvilbay.com
CHUNDUKWA RIVER LODGE, Livingstone, Zambia
It was with relief that Gail (owner) advised us of the reinstatement of the Kazavisa. As from the 21st December, the multi entry visa was made available again. The visas are $50 per person and this gives unlimited travel between Zim and Zam for 30 days - a chance to enjoy the Falls from both viewpoints and the benefits of either country! You can also visit Botswana for the day...
You cannot buy the visa online yet. But we will keep you posted if this changes. At last everyone has right of passage to see the entirety of Victoria Falls without emptying their pockets!
At the lodge they have completed upgrading the kitchen - Doug (Evans - owner and guide extrodinaire) is often in the kitchen whipping up wonders, so this has been a much anticipated improvement for him, and in turn for your guests!
Contact Gail for rates and availability - chundukwariverlodge@gmail.com
TULI SAFARI LODGE, BOtswana
Summer means Rain in so many parts of Africa - and never so much as in the arid corner of Botswana - Tuli. The recent deluges, as predicted, brought an explosion of colour and greenery - a time for thankful hearts and lots of dancing!
The Limpopo River has once again become impassable for vehicles, and the Cable Car took over the transfers – until the cable broke… now guests can enjoy a unique river trip on arrival – it’s a brief adventure as the river will soon disappear back under the sand when the rains subside.
NEWSFLASH: New flights from Limpopo Valley Airfield (only 20 mins from Tuli Safari Lodge) to Maun have brought excitement to the region as it opens our little corner of Botswana to the whole country. With flights twice a week (Wednesday & Saturday) it enables a truly Motswana experience by including Tuli as a viable add on. There are additional discounts to enjoy when booking a multi linked itinerary. Contact Angel Gabriel for rates, info and scheduling - bookings@angelgabriel.co.za
Contact Eloise or Mpho at the lodge for availability www.tulilodge.com
MUCHENJE SAFARI LODGE, Chobe, Botswana
There is always a reason for every season, and despite the very welcome Summer rains, the drives (albeit with sometimes slightly soggy guests in damp ponchos) have enjoyed incredibly rewarding sightings. A pack of wild dogs (up to around 20), lions and cubs, the lioness’ hunting with hyena and jackals in attendance. With the flush of growth the plains game are fattening up on the lush new grass and making most of the fertile flood plains with their newly arrived off spring. A veritable smorgasbord of game in a lush, green landscape.
Proving that there is still plenty to enjoy within the Chobe during the off season in Botswana.
Contact us for last minute rates to make the most of this time of abundance at muchenje +27 (0)72 170 8879 info@muchenje.com
LEOPARD MOUNTAIN, Zululand, RSA
It has been an exciting month for Leopard Mountain - on Monday 23 January the boma gates within the Manzoni Game Reserve (formally Zululand Rhino Reserve) were opened to two big male lions. Having recently been acquired from the Kalahari, they stared blankly at the gaping exit. One of the males sniffed the bait that had been placed outside the boma and started feeding, but the second male decided it was just too hot and walked straight to the nearest patch of shade to rest. They were both relaxed and soon moved off into their new home. We look forward to monitoring their explorations within the reserve and extending the gene pool! There will certainly be some exciting sightings ahead as the new males link up with females - make friends on the Leopard Mountain Social media pages to get the latest. Contact Leisha at info@leopardmountain.co.za to enquire for space.
HATARI, Arusha National Park & SHU’MATA, Nr KiliMajaro Tanzania
I often think the wonder of a safari comes with the new knowledge that you gain from each trip. The wealth of information is endless and doesn’t just stop at the wildlife.
At Hatari & Shu’mata there is plenty to feed the mind, body and soul, and never so much as during the Festive Season. With Marlies and Joerg’s background and passion being the driving force at this lodge, the banquets on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Eve are incredible.
The Momella Voice Choir once again enthralled our guests with music on the verandah which was followed by a colourful and delicious banquet!
Contact us for rates and availability for those Festive Bookings in 2017 – reservation@theafricanembassy.com.
Acacia Tortilis - or Umbrella Tree - is an iconic sight on the African Landscape, and so our lodges provide authentic experiences in unique destinations in Southern and East Africa.
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