Experience Africa – December Events in the Western Cape – Part 2

Continuing our list on events over December in Cape Town and its surroundings, we cover music and sporting events and other dining experiences in the Cape. Be sure have a look at Part 1 if you haven’t yet read it and check out more of our listed properties in Cape Town at the end of this post. Let’s get started!

The Secret Garden Market

The Secret Garden Market, hosted at the SARDA Center in Constantia, offers an exhibit of local traders and crafters as well as Gourmet food and live music. Find creations from artisans such as jewellery, furniture and fashion all set in the Christmas spirit and is a great option for a family outing this festive season. 1st December 2018. More Info

Cape Town’s Sevens

One of the main attractions in Cape Town‘s sports calendar this year is HSBC Rugby Sevens Tournament at Cape Town Stadium in Green point. Join the thousands of fans watching this year. Catch this exciting event on the 8-9 December 2018. More Info

Cape Town Tango Marathon at the V&A Waterfront

Join two international dancers, Sidney Grant (New York) and Mario De Camillas (Argentina), for an evening of Tango dancing on the Pierhead Deck at the Waterfront. Whether you would like to participate or just watch this is sure to be an evening of splendor. Registration to dance is free. 8 December 2018 from 3pm – 6pm. More Info

Watershed at Franschhoek Cellars

As part of a promotion for their new album “Harbour” local band Watershed will be performing in Franschhoek at the Franschhoek Cellars. Limited to 200 seats make sure to grab your tickets early. 19 December 2018. Book Tickets

Blues, Rock and Roots

Standford Hill Estate hosts a family orientated music festival on the Weltevrede Farm. This event features local blues bands including Auldfield, Albert Frost and Black Cat Bones. Blues, Rock and Roots is sure to have you entertained and relaxed.  Food and drink stalls are on available and tickets are available online. 27 December 2018. More info

New Years Eve

If you are looking to spend your New Years Eve in the Cape we have decided to compile a few suggestions for parties to attend in the Cape. They will all be an excellent choice and worth considering.

Black and Yellow at Beerhouse

One of the popular bars on Long Street, Beerhouse, will be hosting a New Years bash with the dress code of black and yellow. There will also be live Djs performing.

Sunset Music Concert at Kirstenbosch Gardens

A great picnic option for celebrating New Years Eve is to enjoy music from Jeremy Loops, Pop rock and Folk music icon from South Africa. Opening act features Crimson House, a Gypsy Rock band also from South Africa. A great Open air event, bring your own food and Drink. More Info

Asoka Restaurant And Bar

Asoka Restaurant on Kloof will be hosting a New Years Eve get together. The Kitchen will be offering a 4 course Dinner with a glass of Bubbly, as well as a bottle service from 11pm. Guests will be entertained by Live Music including a Saxophonist, Keyboardist and Trumpeter, followed by Dj’s for the transition into the New Year. More Info

Here is a list of few more of our accommodations in Cape Town should you choose to spend this festive season in the Mother City.

Vinboho Guest House in Panorama

Sontyger Guest House in Tyger Valley

Old Oak Guest House in Bellville

Excellent Guest House in Bellville

More Accommodation in Cape Town

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – December Events in the Western Cape – Part 1

If you’re looking for activities and events in South Africa’s Western Cape for the December holidays, we’ve compiled a list of events from night life in Cape Town to food festivals across the Cape. Along with these vibrant cultural events we’ve listed our accommodations in the area. Check out the wonders that the Cape’s festive season has to offer.

The Cape Town Festival of Beer

Hosted at Hamilton’s Rugby Club in Green Point, Cape Town, The Cape Town Festival of beer plays host to over 200 beers from over 60 breweries both international and local. A celebration of brewing cultural it is any beer connoisseur’s dream tasting experience in South Africa’s Mother City of Cape Town. Enjoy this weekend experience from 30 November 2018 – 2 December 2018 near the V&A water front. More info.

Franschhoek Cap Classique  & Champagne Festival

Set on the grounds of the Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek, the Cap Classique & Champagne Festival is one of South Africa’s premier social events. Presented by Sanlam Private Wealth come and enjoy the taste of South Africa’s finest Sparkling Wine prepared in the traditional French “Methode Champenoise”. This year’s theme is a black and white dress code. Join the Experience from 1 – 2 December 2018. More info.

Adderley Street Festival of Lights

As far as free family events with amazing sights go, the Adderley Street Festival of Lights features a grand display as the entire street is lit up with festive lights on the 1^st Sunday of December. Featured acts include “Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels” and “Kwesta”. Experience a unique display of the dynamics that make up South African Culture. 2^nd December 2018.

Darling Summer Beer Festival

The small town of Darling, Just north of Cape Town hosts the annual Darling Summer Beer Festival at its local “Darling Brewery”. Showing off the brews of seven local breweries offering a gin bar, a variety of food stands and 3 live band performances, this event is a great option for spending a day out in a small town of the Cape. 16 December 2018. More Info.

Shimmy Beach Club December Residency

If the night life is what you seek, Shimmy Beach Club is Cape Town’s premier night club set on the V& A Waterfront. During the December period Shimmy offers weekly performances of 2 of South Africa’s top Electronic artists, Gold Fish and Black Coffee! More Info

Goldfish:  9, 16, 23, 26, 29 December and 4 January.

Black Coffee 14, 21, 28 December and 5 January.

Check out our accommodations available in Cape Town from affordable back packers to eloquent 5 star Boutique Guest Houses.

Never@Home backpackers in Green Point

Søvn Experience+Lifestyle Boutique Guest House in Camps Bay

Taylor’s Place Self Catering House in Durbanville

Other Accommodations in Cape Town

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – Etosha National Park – Namibia

Namibia is reknown for its vast desert and its white Atlantic sea beaches. Further north however, more central to southern Africa, we find the seasonal oasis of Etosha National Park, a collection of dry pans which attract a variety of birds and game. Etosha, which means “great white area” is the name given to the largest pan in the park, stretching over 120km, covering 4800 square kilometer area . This large salt pan in the heart of Etosha park is part of the Oshikoto region, one of 4 parts of Ovamboland, former homeland to the Ovambo people, which was split into the Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana and Oshikoto regions after Namibia’s Independence, which is evidently referred to as the 4-O-Region.

Etosha National Park has 4 main gates. Anderson’s gate is the southern gate found along the C38, the nearest town being Outjo. Von Lindequist is the eastern gate along the B1, the nearest town to the south being Tsumeb. Galton Gate lies south-west of the park and finally King Nehale Lya Mpingana Gate found in the north of the park just off the B1 south of Ondangwa.

Wild Life

The park is home to over 300 species of bird, of which a third are migratory. The most sort after birding attraction is in January/February when the seasonal rains fill the salt pans and attract large flocks of flamingo from the north for breeding. Fischer’s pan, named after Lieutenant Adolf Fischer, who was stationed there in the mid 1880’s, is the most ideal spot for birders interested in this seasonal migration of birds. Flamingos, Egyptian Geese, African Spoonbills and Great White Pelicans are just a few of the bird species seen in the rainy season. During the dry season the avian sightings change to birds of prey which include the Yellow-billed Kite, Black-shouldered Kite and the endangered Egyptian Vulture.

The park is not short of land animals, with sightings of 4 of the big 5. Elephants and Lions are best seen at the many waterholes across the park. Leopards are in the park to but being solitary animals are a rare sighting, often hiding in the dense vegetation. The park is also home to a large number of the endangered Black Rhino. Aside from the Big 5; Zebra, Giraffe and Wild dog inhabit the vast Etosha National Park.

Etosha National Park offers a unique experience in Africa, as we see the wildlife of this beautiful continent in the vast deserts and salt pans of northern regions of Namibia. The seasonal rains allow for adventures to witness in awe the “Pink Cloud” as flocks of flamingos migrate into Etosha National Park. Any experience in the bush is always a great option to escape the rat race of the City. Etosha National Park is one of the few preserved and untainted parts of Africa to find that escape.

Our Featured accommodations for this week are 2 exceptional lodges in the park. aha Epacha Game Lodge & Spa  and  aha Eagle Tented Lodge. Book your stay direct through Hotel Stays and experience Etosha National Park for yourself.

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – The Sunshine Coast

The best beaches in the world for beach and surf activities lie along the Sunshine Coast. Situated in the Eastern Cape, this 300km stretch of coastline makes its way from St Francis Bay up north to East London. Warm waters from the Indian Ocean make this stretch of coast some of the best spots for amazing beach holidays. This week’s post covers 3 of the major cities and towns along this breath taking stretch of beaches.

Port Elizabeth

Situated in Algoa Bay, along the southern coast of the Eastern Cape, lies the “Friendly City” of Port Elizabeth. Port Elizabeth is known in the sports world as the Water sport Capital of Africa. Nelson Mandela Bay is known for its great beaches and surfs and is a must see destination for any who love the active beach lifestyle. The City life itself also offers an array of cultural and dining experiences from underground creative galleries to upbeat bars and restaurants. Port Elizabeth is a hidden gem in the Eastern Cape! Check out available accommodation in Port Elizabeth.

Port Alfred

The quaint town of Port Alfred is based on the mouth of the Kowie River. It also is a halfway point between the Eastern Cape’s two largest Cities, East London and Port Elizabeth. If you are seeking a truly quiet retreat, Port Alfred is a great option. Canoeing along the Kowie River, deep sea fishing, pleasant hikes through the floral landscape or a laid-back cruise along the river, Port Alfred offers all you need to wind down and get in touch with nature and yourself. Book a stay in Port Alfred.

East London

As a river port in South Africa, East London is situated on the Buffalo River and is a city filled with old tradition. Various art galleries and cafes offer tourists many options to choose from for night entertainment . The famous East London Grand Prix is also a great attraction for motorsport lovers with big local events scheduled throughout the year. Book your stay in East London today!

Experience Africa – The Kruger National Park – Part 3 – Phalaborwa

Phalaborwa is situated just north of Olifantsrivier in Limpopo and is known as ‘The Town of Two Summers’ for its location in the northern part of South Africa, which gives its climate a warm, sunny feel all year round. It is also home to the Phalaborwa Gate, a popular entry point into the Kruger National Park.

The Phalaborwa gate is situated in the Mopaneveld, a region of the Kruger National Park named so for its predominately Mopane tree populated woodlands. This area filled with Mopane trees and shrubs is where the majority of The Kruger National Parks elephants reside. The elephants make use of the entire Mopane tree, eating the leaves, bark and roots. The Mopaneveld is also known for its wild dog population.

The H-9 is the main road in the park from Phalaborwa and leads east to Letaba. Along this route one has the option to turn north along the H-14 to Mopani, or continue east to Letaba. Should you continue to head east along the H-9 you have the option to stop at the Masorini Iron Age site, a Museum to the Majola People who traded food, iron and ivory across the Lowveld. At Masorini you can see the restored village and various artifacts such as bowls, pots and tools used by the Majola. Further east, along the H-9, heads through an area of bare veldt where not much game can be seen.  Although there are large termite hills in the plains and as a result aardvark can be seen in the area leading up to Letaba. Should you choose to head up north along the fore mentioned H-14 towards Mopani, you will pass through the Mopaneveld, again a great opportunity for viewing elephant, and then join up with H-1-6 (which joins Letaba and Mopani) and then continue north to Mopani. When crossing the Letaba river you will find great opportunity to see game such as buffalo, wildebeest, giraffe and elephant which may be lurking on the Letaba riverbank.

The road from Mopani north (H1-6) Heads through a part of the park that is less inhabited by people and stretches across the tropic of Capricorn, past several dry pans, which are great stopping points for game sightings. The H1-6 leads to Shingwedzi camp situated on the Shingwidzi river. The flood plains around Shinwedzi are ideal for spotting Sable and a rarity of birds including the Saddle-billed stork.

Our Featured accommodation in Phalaborwa is aha Sefapane Lodge. Book direct through Hotel Stays and Experience Africa at the Kruger National Park.

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – The Kruger National Park – Part 2 – Sabie River to Olifantsrivier

In this 2^nd post on the Kruger National Park, we explore the region north of the Sabie River up to Olifantsrivier which borders Mpumalanga and Limpopo. This region covers the northern part of the Lembombo hills which border South Africa and Mozambique as well as the Grasslands of central Kruger Park.

Whether heading north from Skukuzu along the H1-2 or Lower Sabie along the H10, which are both situated on the Sabie River, the closest rest point is Tshokwane Picnic Spot. Tshokwane receives its name from the old Shangaan chief who lived in the area until he died in 1915. The original warden of the old Sabie Wildlife Reserve (the original reserve which became the Kruger Park), Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton, learnt much about Shangaan, Zulu and Swazi history in the area from Chief Tshokwane.

Orpen Dam which is east of Tshokwane Picnic Spot is a great viewing spot for elephant and the area around is known for its giraffe population.

The H1-3 leads north from Tshokwane through the central grasslands of the Kruger National Park to Satara Camp. Along this stretch we pass through Lion territory. Satara is most known for its lion sightings. Along the H1-3 is an optional route, the S34, known as the Vutomi Loop. This road follows the Munywini River and Ripape River until it joins back to the H1. This loop sees large amounts of Zebra and Wildebeest during the winter season and is a great route for spotting giraffe feeding off the tall knob thorn.

The H7 Route leads westward from Satara to the Orpen rest camp, following the Timbavati River. This route offers sightings of Buffalo, Zebra and Wildebeest. The H6 road leads eastward to the Lembombo hills, filled with knob thorn acacia woodlands.

Northward from Satara we follow the H1-4, through dry pans and bushveld to the Olifantsrivier.

Along this route there are a few side roads such as the S90 and S40 which take us through eastern parts of the centeral park and offer more opportunity for birding and game sightings. The main stopping point on the way to Olifantsrivier is the Ngotso waterhole. Ngotso is great for birders to catch sight of the African Fish Eagle and is known for frequent visits from herds of Elephant.

The Kruger National Park is vast and full of a variety of habitat and African wildlife. If you haven’t yet visited the Kruger National Park or haven’t yet been since your youth, I would advise you re-engage with the beauty of the Southern African bush and reconnect with nature. Find accommodation in and around the Kruger National Park right here through Hotel Stays. Reading about these great safari experiences is nothing compared to when you Experience Africa for yourself! See you in The Kruger!

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – The Kruger National Park – Part 1 – South of the Sabie River

In this 3 part series we will explore Southern Africa’s largest nature reserve, The Kruger National Park. In this 1^st part we discuss the former Sabie Wildlife reserve, which spans from the Sabie River, south to the Crocodile River.

The original reserve was formed in 1898 by President Paul Kruger in response to the over hunted wildlife in the area south of the Sabie River and was then called the Sabie Wildlife Reserve. Its first warden, Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton, was stationed at Malelane gate in 1902, marking the start of what is the Kruger National Park today. The region is known for its interesting vegetation including Giant Sycamore Trees, Knob Thorn Acacias and Marula Trees. The Knob Thorn Acacias attract giraffe for grazing and the area in general offers a large amount of wildlife as the vegetation is ideal grazing grounds for zebra and impala. Close to the Mozambican border of Lembobo is the Crocodile Bridge Gate, west of that another crossing over the Crocodile River is the fore mentioned Malelane gate.

The S110 (Berg-en-Dal-Malelane Road) Leads from Malelane north-westward to Berg-en-Dal. It leads through a mountainous bushveld, offering a wide variety of different habitats and possible game sightings. Granite mountains surround the Matjulu River Valley and feature the Krugers highest peak, Khandzalive. A common sighting is herds of buffalo feeding of the lowveld vegetation, as well as zebra and Impala. Rare buck that appear in this region include the common reedbuck and sable antelope. The area is also known for a white Rhino population and lion sightings are common.

The H3 road is tarred and leads from Malelane right through to Skukuza, with a picnic stop, Afsaal Picnic Site, featuring a shop and BBQ facilities. Afsaal is perfectly situated on a strip of gabbro, a rock type formed by magnesium and iron rich magma rapidly cooling. Gabbro offers farm more nutrients to plants then granite thus the Afsaal Picnic Stop is filled with rich vegetation attracting a variety of buck and White Rhino. The area around Afsaal also offers Jackal-berry and red ivory trees. The red ivory tree produces a berry that is a local delicacy.

Further north from Afsaal along the H3 Road we find the Makhoutlwanini Koppies. Large boulders populate these hills and often see Lions scanning the flatlands below. As you head further north into the Biyamiti river follows alongside the H3 Road. During dry seasons animals are found closer to the rivine but tend to disperse during the wet season. Hornbills are often seen feeding on the magic guarri tree berries in the wet season.

From Crocodile Bridge gate one follows the H4 Road through to Skukuza, there are other options along dirt roads which take you past the Biyamiti river. Along the H4-2 road, between Crocodile Bridge and Lower Sabie, you find large acacias which attract giraffe and similar to the H3 road one is likely to see Lion, imapla and Zebra. If you are lucky Black Rhino may be sighted too. The Gezantfombi Dam is just off the H4-2 Road and is a great stopping point to view elephant, who come to bathe in the summer. Another great dam to visit along the way to Lower Sabie is the Dukes Waterhole.

From Lower Sabie to Kukuza, the H4-1 road follows along the Sabie River. The 40km drive along the riverside road is a great option to view birds such as the Giant kingfisher, Goliath heron and Brown snake-eagle. Hippo and Crocodile also inhabit the Sabie River and are a common sighting along this route.

Our Featured accommodation is in Marloth Park, situated just south of the Kruger National Park, 35km East of Malelane Gate and 14km west of Crocodile Bridge Gate. You’ve read about it now go and Experience Africa for yourself!

Accommodation in Marloth Park

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – KwaZulu Natal

Often referred to as the Garden Province, KwaZulu Natal is a prime destination for travellers seeking a fun filled, sunny holiday. Along South Africa’s east coast lies a string of cities and towns with golden beaches and warm waters. Inland, we find the wonders of the midland farms and beautiful forests of this lush green part of South Africa. In today’s post we explore the diverse province of KwaZulu Natal and all it has to offer.

Durban

KwaZulu Natal’s largest city, Durban is where the majority of the provinces population resides. Offering a diverse cultural experience with influence from European, African and Indian heritage, Durban is unlike any other city in Africa. A popular attraction in Durban’s tourism is uShaka Marine World, which serves as a water park and aquarium. You have not truly experienced Durban without having tasted a Durban Curry, a dish inherited from Indian South Africans and a must have for hot food lovers. Have a look at our accommodation in Durban and experience it for yourself.

Umhlanga

Situated 16km north of central Durban, Umhlanga in recent years has become the prime spot for travellers heading to the coast for a break away from work. 10 minutes drive from King Shaka International Airport and complete with its own Mall, Gateway Mall, Umhlanga is an ideal centralised location catering to all your needs within walking distanceBook your stay directly through Hotelstays to get the best room rates in Umhlanga.

Richard’s Bay

Spectacular scenery and preserved, clean beaches have made this northern town in KwaZulu Natal a popular holiday destination. The town offers modern facilities, Coffee shops and restaurants and is fast becoming a go to destination for travellers in KwaZulu Natal. Book Direct through Hotelstays to get the best price for accommodation in Richard’s Bay.

Pietermaritzburg

The Capital City of KwaZulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg is situated 1 hours drive inland from Durban and is surrounded by the Midland farms and near to the Drakensburg Mountains. A great central location in KwaZulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg is a prime choice for anyone wanting to visit these non coastal areas of KwaZulu Natal. Find your direct booking to Accommodation in Pietermaritzburg here.

KwaDuzuka (Prince’s Grant Golf Course)

Originally named Stanger by the European settlers of Natal, KwaDukuza is today named so in memory of King Shaka who first established the town in 1825. A Memorial for King Shaka can be found in the Dukuza Museum telling the tale of how he was assassinated by his 2 brothers and servant. Another great attraction in KwaDukuza is the Prince’s Grant Golf Course. Book your stay at The Eighteenth on Prince’s Grant to enjoy the splendour of this northern region of Kwazulu Natal.

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – The Pilanesberg National Park

Found in the North West Province, Pilanesberg National Park is an oasis of plants and wildlife, situated in the heart of a 1.2 billion year old extinct Volcano. Primarily a nature reserve, Pilanesberg National Park offers a wide variety of game, including the big 5, wild dog, sable and over 360 species of bird.

A perfect escape from the city at a mere 2 hour drive out of Jo’burg, Pilanesberg is a great destination for a family get away. Whether you want to rough it out in the bush and have an authentic African camping experience or a luxury stay at a 5 star safari lodge with guided tours through the park, Pilanesberg National Park offers a variety of accommodation options as well as an option to visit the famous holiday resort Sun City, which lies on the outskirts of the park.

Located between the dry Kalahari and the wet vegetation of the Lowveld, this 550 km2 National Park is filled with all the vegetation and wildlife South Africa has to Offer. The dry season between April and September offers the best sightings of big game as the animals are seen at the many waterholes across the park, giving game watchers great opportunities to see elephant, lion and many other animals coming for a drink.  In the dry season the temperatures are also cooler as it falls over Southern Africa’s winter, allowing the game life to be more active during the day. Wet seasons see migratory birds heading south for the summers and the dry brown flora and fauna coming to life as the bush turns lush green.

Two of our listed accommodations in the Pilanesberg National park that stand out for their outstanding luxury bush retreat experiences are: aha Ivory Tree Lodge and aha Shepherd’s Tree Lodge. Have a look at these to prime accommodations in the Pilanesberg National Park and book your stay direct through Hotel Stays!

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa

Experience Africa – Gaborone

Introduction to the City of Gaborone

Named after Kgosi Gaborone, leader of the Batlokwa people who migrated from the Magalies Mountains in 1881, Gaborone is one of the youngest cities in Southern Africa, gaining its title as a city in 1986, becoming the Capital of Botswana. A diversity of culture spurs on creativity and a drive for growth in the city, as more young African students and high skilled professionals add to the cities development. The City of Gaborone is one of the safest in Africa, the people being renowned as friendly and welcoming to tourists and foreign businessman alike. Gaborone offers a 40000 seat National stadium which hosts a number of sporting and non-sport events in Botswana. Gaborone also offers a small but well preserved Nature Reserve, National Museum of Art, Thapong Visual Arts Centre and the Kgale Hill viewpoint, overlooking the City. This up and coming African city is sure to give you a positive experience of the Future of Africa.

The CBD

The Central Business District was nothing but bare land 30 years ago but is now populated with the tallest buildings in Botswana, the iTowers, which host offices to the Botswana Stock Exchange. The CBD is also home to Prime Plaza which host offices for Barclays Botswana and Time Projects. The CBD is also home to several law firms and restaurants such as Masa Centre’s Gourmet grill and the CBD’s Carvella Portuguese Restaurant. In the CBD we also find the iconic memorial statue of “the three Chiefs”, a monument to Chief Khama III, Chief Sebele I and Chief Bathoen I who in 1885 travelled to London to petition the invasion of Cecil Rhode’s British South Africa Company into Botswana (then called Bechuanaland) and after winning the support of the British people and Queen Victoria herself, established the Bechuanaland Protectorate, stopping the acquisition of the land by Cecil Rhodes. The Monument was unveiled in 2005, on the 39^th anniversary of Botswana’s Independence in the CBD.

Masa Square

Aha Masa Square, which is located in a prime location of the CBD, is Gaborone’s ideal hotel for business or leisure. Situated within Masa Centre this 4 star Hotel offers comfort and class in the heart of Gaborone’s Business hub. Within the Centre itself one can find all the essentials needed, from a range of restaurants, including the renown Gourmet Grill, and the New Capitol Cinema. Aha Masa Square is the prime choice for your stay in Gaborone, whether you want to experience the arts and culture of the City, or have a well rested night for your business ordeals in the thriving CBD. Find your direct booking to this spectacular hotel here. Experience the lively and upcoming African City of Gaborone.

Book aha Masa Square Hotel Here

Author: Sebastian Bergman – Account Executive Hotel Stays Africa