*Prices are based on 6 travellers and includes private guide and private vehicle at all camps. Based on 2022 rates. Please note rates subject to change and will need to be re-quoted at time of booking. Dependent on rate of exchange.
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Africa’s big cats are some of the most iconic and sought after species to see on safari. This South African itinerary takes you to the hot spots for cheetah, wild dogs, leopards, lions, spotted hyenas, side striped jackals, African wild cats and maybe just maybe a serval or caracal.
Phinda Private Game Reserve is world-renowned for its cheetah population, which is the most threatened of all the big cats in Africa. Stay in the calming Zulu Zen atmosphere of Forest Lodge, set in the rare and beautiful sand forest, one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet.
With floor to ceiling glass walls providing an outlook onto the forest, the towering torchwood trees and fertile forest floor that surround your suite ensure a sense of seclusion. During the day go in search of the world’s fastest land mammal on the open marsh in the north of the reserve and at night follow their strong population of lion’s on the move.
Apart from the predators, some of the other specials for the area include the tiny Suni antelope, a large population of nyala, excellent black and white rhino viewing and night turtle drives (seasonal) as well as the incredible diversity of plant and bird life (436 bird species).
Moving north through South Africa, we head to Ngala Tented Camp set on the banks of the Timbavati River. Ngala is renowned for amazing lion, spotted hyena and wild dog viewing. Large prides of lions up to 20 strong roam through this private concession open to the greater Kruger National Park, with one having had white lion cubs born into it recently. It’s location also makes it a prime area for wild dog viewing as these endangered predators (the most endangered in southern Africa) move their through massive home ranges in the greater Kruger National Park. Well-known hyena den sites provide great viewing of both adult and young spotted hyenas. For the very lucky, there is also the chance of seeing the shy and elusive serval, caracal and African wild cat.
Stay in Ngala Tented Camp, which never lets you forget that you are in the wild. There is nothing primitive about this chic and contemporary camp. The romance of canvas, with big night sounds and flickering lanterns lighting the campgrounds, mingles with the simple sophistication of polished wooden decks, textured fabrics and clean lines.
Ngala is a true safari experience where guests go to bed to the sounds of lions calling, safely cosseted in modern tented suites and pampered with the warm hearted service that embodies the soul of Africa.
This trip finishes in Singita Boulder’s in the Sabi Sands, one of the best places in the world to view the elusive leopard. Where you may only catch fleeting glimpses of this cat in other parts of the world, here they welcome you into their secret lives and sightings of them hunting, feeding, mating and caring for their cubs are not uncommon. In addition to their incredible leopard population you also have a strong chance of seeing cheetah, spotted hyena, wild dogs and side-striped jackal.
Singita Ebony offers ultimate luxury and the lodge design is inspired by the ancient boulders on which is rests. 12 glass-fronted suites features spacious interiors, a fireplace, private deck, outdoor shower and heated pool. Handmade furnishings and luxurious, textured fabrics echo the raw African beauty outside. The lodge boasts a temperature-controlled wine cellar, featuring an award winning collection and private tastings.
For those with a strong interest in photographing Africa’s big cats whilst staying in style, this itinerary is designed for you.
Iconic Species
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