South Africa in early June?
Feb 26th, 2011, 07:14 AM
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South Africa in early June?
We just found out we'll be in South Africa May 24 - June 1 and would like to add 7-10 days afterwards to go on safari. We're thinking of going to Sabi Sands and/or Phinda and are primarily interested in wildlife and birdlife. But we've got a few questions which we hope fodorites can help with. Thanks!
1. Will the bush likely to be too thick for good game viewing at this time of year?
2. Do you know if MalaMala has special rates at this time of year? I've looked at their website but didn't see any. FYI, I did see that &Beyond does have a stay 4/pay for 3 special.
3. Would it be worth going to both Sabi Sands and Phinda, i.e., would we see different wildlife? Would the transfer between these areas cost us a full day in travel time?
1. Will the bush likely to be too thick for good game viewing at this time of year?
2. Do you know if MalaMala has special rates at this time of year? I've looked at their website but didn't see any. FYI, I did see that &Beyond does have a stay 4/pay for 3 special.
3. Would it be worth going to both Sabi Sands and Phinda, i.e., would we see different wildlife? Would the transfer between these areas cost us a full day in travel time?
Feb 26th, 2011, 08:31 AM
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You can take a look at an earlier thread for some answers:
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...ri-in-june.cfm
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...ri-in-june.cfm
Feb 26th, 2011, 09:16 AM
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I was going to post the same past thread as sdb2. I am going back to South Africa this June. The game viewing is good, as it's the beginning of winter. The days are short, so you get more sleep at night instead of napping between game drives.
I actually planned a similar trip last year for my mother (she couldn't find a travel partner so didn't go). Our travel agent used Kirkman's and Phinda because the rates are better using all &Beyond camps. Kirkman's is on property that used to be part of MM. Rates go up on June 21, so you will get a bit of savings off regular rates. No, you won't lose a day traveling - meaning you won't miss a game drive if you do charter flights and fly in/out Richards Bay. I wish I could find the itinerary, but it's on another computer. We priced 4 Phinda Forest, four Kirkman's and including all transfers to/from camps and JNB, it was around $8000. Maybe a little less? Darn - I wish I could find it! It was a really good itinerary. You'll love it!
7-10 days? Do 10.
I'm also on a Tembe Elephant Park kick (no, I'm not paid nor encouraged to push it, I'm just really excited to go and sharing my excitement). Good birding destination. It is north of Phinda, on the Mozambique border. If you can fit it in, it might be a good option. You could fly to Richards Bay, get a road transfer (four hours) to Tembe for 2-3 nights, road transfer (2.5 hours) to Phinda for 3-4 nights and fly Kirkman's for 3-4 nights. Tembe has a webcam, and last week, in the middle of the night, I had fun watching a trio of rhino hang out.
http://www.tembe.co.za/
"Would it be worth going to both Sabi Sands and Phinda" - depends on what "worth it" means to you. You will see the same animals, different animals, different eco-systems.
I actually planned a similar trip last year for my mother (she couldn't find a travel partner so didn't go). Our travel agent used Kirkman's and Phinda because the rates are better using all &Beyond camps. Kirkman's is on property that used to be part of MM. Rates go up on June 21, so you will get a bit of savings off regular rates. No, you won't lose a day traveling - meaning you won't miss a game drive if you do charter flights and fly in/out Richards Bay. I wish I could find the itinerary, but it's on another computer. We priced 4 Phinda Forest, four Kirkman's and including all transfers to/from camps and JNB, it was around $8000. Maybe a little less? Darn - I wish I could find it! It was a really good itinerary. You'll love it!
7-10 days? Do 10.
I'm also on a Tembe Elephant Park kick (no, I'm not paid nor encouraged to push it, I'm just really excited to go and sharing my excitement). Good birding destination. It is north of Phinda, on the Mozambique border. If you can fit it in, it might be a good option. You could fly to Richards Bay, get a road transfer (four hours) to Tembe for 2-3 nights, road transfer (2.5 hours) to Phinda for 3-4 nights and fly Kirkman's for 3-4 nights. Tembe has a webcam, and last week, in the middle of the night, I had fun watching a trio of rhino hang out.
http://www.tembe.co.za/
"Would it be worth going to both Sabi Sands and Phinda" - depends on what "worth it" means to you. You will see the same animals, different animals, different eco-systems.
Feb 27th, 2011, 02:27 AM
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www.krugertours.com/climate.htm
Best for me cooler less rain decenr viewing though off season.
good prices though www.porini.com other good options.
www.travelzoo.com amazing packages right now from the US
including air from $2400 truly amazing value.
Happy hunting,
Best for me cooler less rain decenr viewing though off season.
good prices though www.porini.com other good options.
www.travelzoo.com amazing packages right now from the US
including air from $2400 truly amazing value.
Happy hunting,
Mar 4th, 2011, 05:48 PM
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I safaried South Africa in May of 2007, Sabi Sand (also Timbavati and Madikwe). Bush was -not- thick, delightfully green, never hindered game viewing. The early mornings were however decidedly on the very chilly side. Snowed one night. However, in fact, I was going back this coming May until an opportunity to go Tanzania this Feb came along (yes, just got back). Here is my Fodors trip report for that May 2007 safari - http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35016274
Re rates at MalaMala, since I've been there in 2005, 2006, 2007, and now, their rates are same all year long. MM would be the one camp in South Africa I would go to if I had to pick only one. In Sabi Sand resesrve I also like very much Leopard Hills and Kirkmans Kamp. In the nearby Timbavati reserve Kings Camp is one of my favs. All of these have "long stay" discounts. I have not been to Phinda, think biggest difference is Phinda has more cheetah.
regards - tom
Re rates at MalaMala, since I've been there in 2005, 2006, 2007, and now, their rates are same all year long. MM would be the one camp in South Africa I would go to if I had to pick only one. In Sabi Sand resesrve I also like very much Leopard Hills and Kirkmans Kamp. In the nearby Timbavati reserve Kings Camp is one of my favs. All of these have "long stay" discounts. I have not been to Phinda, think biggest difference is Phinda has more cheetah.
regards - tom
Mar 4th, 2011, 07:16 PM
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I've been following most of these posts and older posts. We're in the middle of planning our first trip to Africa. I think South Africa-Kruger is going to be our destination.
cary999-I just went through your photos after reading your May 2007 safari report. So many fabulous shots. Just wanted to say, thanks for sharing. I'm so glad they were still available.
cary999-I just went through your photos after reading your May 2007 safari report. So many fabulous shots. Just wanted to say, thanks for sharing. I'm so glad they were still available.
Mar 4th, 2011, 08:17 PM
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thanks cristeen.
I have trip reports for all my safaris, 2006, 2007 May, 2007 Sep, 2008, 2009 (but not for 2005). Let me know if you'd like links to any those. One of my joys of safari is trying my hand at photography.
regards - tom
ps - just got back and starting report and photos for Feb 2011 safari.
I have trip reports for all my safaris, 2006, 2007 May, 2007 Sep, 2008, 2009 (but not for 2005). Let me know if you'd like links to any those. One of my joys of safari is trying my hand at photography.
regards - tom
ps - just got back and starting report and photos for Feb 2011 safari.
Mar 5th, 2011, 05:15 AM
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tom, thanks for the info...I'd love to have links to your other safari trip reports. Your safari photos are beautiful...the light on some of the shots is magical!
My SO is into nature photography so the two of you are like-minded (except he uses Canon equipment). He especially likes to photograph birds as we are both birders.
I noticed Andy Biggs' predators tour stays at Exeter River Lodge as well as MalaMala Main Lodge. Have you been to Exeter or heard anything about their wildlife viewing?
Re: MalaMala, do you know if there are meaningful differences between the 3 lodges (aside from the rates!)? We enjoy being comfortable but that does not include spa, pool, or other such services we do not use. However, we do like uncrowded vehicles (no sitting in middle seats), longer or all day game drives, and anything else that would provide better or more wildlife viewing. Depending on the cost or probability of having a fully loaded vehicle, we might consider a private vehicle.
Looking forward to reading about your Tanzania safari.
Marsha
My SO is into nature photography so the two of you are like-minded (except he uses Canon equipment). He especially likes to photograph birds as we are both birders.
I noticed Andy Biggs' predators tour stays at Exeter River Lodge as well as MalaMala Main Lodge. Have you been to Exeter or heard anything about their wildlife viewing?
Re: MalaMala, do you know if there are meaningful differences between the 3 lodges (aside from the rates!)? We enjoy being comfortable but that does not include spa, pool, or other such services we do not use. However, we do like uncrowded vehicles (no sitting in middle seats), longer or all day game drives, and anything else that would provide better or more wildlife viewing. Depending on the cost or probability of having a fully loaded vehicle, we might consider a private vehicle.
Looking forward to reading about your Tanzania safari.
Marsha
Mar 5th, 2011, 08:17 AM
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thanks ovenbird, aka Marsha. I follow the photo "philosophy" that a good photo is based on - light, composition, subject. And in that priority.
links to all of my trip reports (5) are-
South Africa, Zambia and Kenya Sept 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=34881694
South Africa: Madikwe Hills Lodge, Kings Camp, Leopards Hills, five nights each in May 2007
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35016274
South Africa: Kruger, Kings Camp, MalaMala, Sep 2007
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35083850
South Africa September 2008. Safari camps Kings Camp and Ngala Safari Lodge, both in Timbavati Reserve bordering Kruger. Eight nights at each camp.
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35161085
South Africa: Kruger, Kings Camp, Kirkman's Kamp, Sep 2009
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...p-sep-2009.cfm
Birds are beautiful photo subjects, but so difficult to get everything right. Including camera equipment which requires long focal length lens and all that implies. Here is my fav photo web sites for seeing and commenting on bird and wildlife photography. Also has lots of other wildlife. http://www.birdphotographers.net/forums/ . Go to the "Forums" section to see members photos and comments about them.
Exeter River Lodge vs MalaMala. Both are of course in Sabi Sand. MM is its own unique (Sand River) property and does not share it with other camps. I have not been to Exeter (an &Beyond camp) but have heard good about it. The key to good game drives is you guide/ranger. I've had varying satisfaction with &Beyond guides. MM rangers have each and every one been great. BTW, I very much admire Andy Biggs and if Exeter is good for him, I'm sure it is good.
MalaMala, (http://www.malamala.com/) three camps - Main Camp, Sable, Rattrays. Rattrays, very plush, exclusive and is too expensive for me. Sable camp is for adults, no children there. Sable is adjacent to/part of Main and the bungalows are the same accommodations as Main, which is excellent. I have each (three) times signed up for Main but they "upgraded" us to Sable. Typical Sable game drives have 4-5 guests (total) in vehicle, a reasonable/workable number. Never anyone in middle seat. But you are subject to cooperation of your (other 1-2-3) vehicle mates for staying out longer, for all days drives etc. MM will do private vehicles for extra charge. I have never had one, the usual drive "plan" works good for me.
Birders huh. The MM ranger will amaze you with their spotting and knowledge of birds. But if you are avid twitchers, this can be a problem with other vehicle mates. Everyone is willing to stop and admire pretty birds (for 20 seconds). But most guests are there not for birds but for the big five. And will thus not be happy to sit and view a bird-on-a-stick (BOS) for any length of time.
And just started downloading Tanzania photos from safari back-up drives into my PC for selection and work. Gonna be a little while.
regards - tom
links to all of my trip reports (5) are-
South Africa, Zambia and Kenya Sept 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=34881694
South Africa: Madikwe Hills Lodge, Kings Camp, Leopards Hills, five nights each in May 2007
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35016274
South Africa: Kruger, Kings Camp, MalaMala, Sep 2007
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35083850
South Africa September 2008. Safari camps Kings Camp and Ngala Safari Lodge, both in Timbavati Reserve bordering Kruger. Eight nights at each camp.
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=35161085
South Africa: Kruger, Kings Camp, Kirkman's Kamp, Sep 2009
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...p-sep-2009.cfm
Birds are beautiful photo subjects, but so difficult to get everything right. Including camera equipment which requires long focal length lens and all that implies. Here is my fav photo web sites for seeing and commenting on bird and wildlife photography. Also has lots of other wildlife. http://www.birdphotographers.net/forums/ . Go to the "Forums" section to see members photos and comments about them.
Exeter River Lodge vs MalaMala. Both are of course in Sabi Sand. MM is its own unique (Sand River) property and does not share it with other camps. I have not been to Exeter (an &Beyond camp) but have heard good about it. The key to good game drives is you guide/ranger. I've had varying satisfaction with &Beyond guides. MM rangers have each and every one been great. BTW, I very much admire Andy Biggs and if Exeter is good for him, I'm sure it is good.
MalaMala, (http://www.malamala.com/) three camps - Main Camp, Sable, Rattrays. Rattrays, very plush, exclusive and is too expensive for me. Sable camp is for adults, no children there. Sable is adjacent to/part of Main and the bungalows are the same accommodations as Main, which is excellent. I have each (three) times signed up for Main but they "upgraded" us to Sable. Typical Sable game drives have 4-5 guests (total) in vehicle, a reasonable/workable number. Never anyone in middle seat. But you are subject to cooperation of your (other 1-2-3) vehicle mates for staying out longer, for all days drives etc. MM will do private vehicles for extra charge. I have never had one, the usual drive "plan" works good for me.
Birders huh. The MM ranger will amaze you with their spotting and knowledge of birds. But if you are avid twitchers, this can be a problem with other vehicle mates. Everyone is willing to stop and admire pretty birds (for 20 seconds). But most guests are there not for birds but for the big five. And will thus not be happy to sit and view a bird-on-a-stick (BOS) for any length of time.
And just started downloading Tanzania photos from safari back-up drives into my PC for selection and work. Gonna be a little while.
regards - tom
Mar 5th, 2011, 08:56 AM
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Thanks for the links and additional info, tom. We're birders but not twitchers. In Botswana our French vehicle-mates asked to be switched to another vehicle because "we don't do feathers". All they wanted to see were cats...nothing more, not even eles, rhinos or buffalo.
Mar 5th, 2011, 09:46 AM
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Ok,it looks like I will have a bit of my Saturday reading more great trip reports. Thanks, cary999.
We are waiting for quotes from a consultant that has suggested Sabi Sands Arathusa & Timbavati. I look forward to reading your Kruger reports.
We are waiting for quotes from a consultant that has suggested Sabi Sands Arathusa & Timbavati. I look forward to reading your Kruger reports.
Mar 5th, 2011, 10:52 AM
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Thanks all. If every guest demanded to see only a specific species, it would be impossible situation for the camps. The camps should say fine, ok, then you will then have a private vehicle and it will cost you another $250 per day. Of course the French would never put up with that .
Happy to answer any questions about those reports, camps, etc.
regards - tom
.Happy to answer any questions about those reports, camps, etc.
regards - tom
Mar 5th, 2011, 10:54 AM
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ovenbird-we are still in the investigative stages. I haven't decided who will be using. I have spoken to one consultant that was supposed to get my information by yesterday. I hasn't happened. I have an email in to another. This is our first time to anywhere in Africa. I am not one to recommend. I am still seeking.
Good luck with your planning.
Good luck with your planning.
Mar 5th, 2011, 12:47 PM
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ovenbird- No matter what agent you use, the more research you do yourself the better. The last trip we went on, I chose all the destinations and our agent made all the arrangements. It went perfectly. The trip before that, the agent did everything. Again perfect, but I could have made different choices of accommodations if I had known anything. This next trip we're on our own, with a rental car.
I use classicafrica.com. They are in Connecticut and are quick to reply. They made it clear when I requested properties that they had never been to some, but were happy to make the arrangements. Our road/charter transfers have all been top notch with no issues. They mostly do high end, but are open to doing a more affordable plan. I will use them again.
So you dropped KwaZulu-Natal? (Phinda). (Tembe is a birder's paradise.) How about MalaMala and Mashatu? (same owner) They do a photography tour that is on the MM website under combination holidays.
We were at Arathusa in 2009. It was perfect for us, but note that they will pack the vehicle to capacity as they did while we were there. If that is unacceptable, spend the money for a more exclusive experience. This year we are going to Shindzela in Timbavati and Kruger National Park, plus Tembe and Hluhluwe in KwaZulu-Natal.
If you click on my name you can find my trip report from Arathusa-Pafuri-Mashatu tented. It was a perfect 10 day trip. But I might do Shindzela or other Timbavati camp, MM or a Sabi Sands camp, Mashatu instead.
I use classicafrica.com. They are in Connecticut and are quick to reply. They made it clear when I requested properties that they had never been to some, but were happy to make the arrangements. Our road/charter transfers have all been top notch with no issues. They mostly do high end, but are open to doing a more affordable plan. I will use them again.
So you dropped KwaZulu-Natal? (Phinda). (Tembe is a birder's paradise.) How about MalaMala and Mashatu? (same owner) They do a photography tour that is on the MM website under combination holidays.
We were at Arathusa in 2009. It was perfect for us, but note that they will pack the vehicle to capacity as they did while we were there. If that is unacceptable, spend the money for a more exclusive experience. This year we are going to Shindzela in Timbavati and Kruger National Park, plus Tembe and Hluhluwe in KwaZulu-Natal.
If you click on my name you can find my trip report from Arathusa-Pafuri-Mashatu tented. It was a perfect 10 day trip. But I might do Shindzela or other Timbavati camp, MM or a Sabi Sands camp, Mashatu instead.
Mar 7th, 2011, 03:53 AM
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tom, sorry to hear the migration was not in full swing. Hope to have time today to start reading your trip reports!
christabir, too many choices! We haven't dropped Phinda nor Mashatu from consideration. However, we haven't read much about how good the game drives are at Phinda, and we've read some reports of too much bush for good viewing in June at Mashatu. We're also looking at Madikwe for a change in game, e.g., brown hyenas. &Beyond has a stay 4/pay 3 for South Africa, but it's pay up front and non-refundable. Sounds good, though.
cristeen, good luck with your planning too!
christabir, too many choices! We haven't dropped Phinda nor Mashatu from consideration. However, we haven't read much about how good the game drives are at Phinda, and we've read some reports of too much bush for good viewing in June at Mashatu. We're also looking at Madikwe for a change in game, e.g., brown hyenas. &Beyond has a stay 4/pay 3 for South Africa, but it's pay up front and non-refundable. Sounds good, though.
cristeen, good luck with your planning too!
