I looked closer at the stats. There were zero cheetah sightings at MalaMala in June and July 2009. I think things are changing in the ecosystem and that may explain it.

Craig Beal

I was at MM in Sep of 2007 (5 nights) and at Kirkmans (a part of MM) in Sep of 2009 (5 nights). Only one cheetah sighting there (in those two visits and 2 previous stays). That only cheetah sighting was two males atop a termite mound, taking it easy. Put another way, in 3 stays at MM totaling 15 nights, I've seen only those two cheetah once. I don't expect to see cheetah at MM, but lots of leopards - that look a lot like cheetah . (If you sort of squint your eyes).

regards - tom

I am enjoying this thoroughly for "info purposes" (if only I had to decide whether to go to Singita or not) BUT I wanted to add my own thoughts on Vic Falls - we went in 2007 because my husband wanted to Bungee jump - which he did -
and while so, I was attacked on the street; traveling with two teenaged girls I'd skip Vic Falls as that experience still haunts me when I am in a crowd.

Of course it may not happen if you are careful, but I will never forget the man who grabbed me, pushed me into a stall and swore at me for being, white, rich and not buying anything (and blonde on top of that- but I did have a cap on!) Another vendor pulled him off and held him until authorities came; but I cannot tell you how it affected my thoughts of Vic Falls. This was over two years ago so I have no idea what it is like now, but I would not ever recommend taking teenage girls there. That is my personal opinion and I am sure others will disagree, but I did not want you thinking it was like going to Singita!

I'd forget Vic falls and ride elephants at Camp Jabulani, which friends of ours did before their 3 night stay at Singita. We rode elephants at a camp near River Lodge where we stayed (and loved RC) but the experience in our view was definitely not worth the cost of flying from Jo'burg and staying near Vic Falls just to bungee and ride an elephant.
Sure the falls are awesome, but I'd rather see wildlife.We also did the ultralight over the falls and it was so-so.
Spend your time on safari!

I also saw cheetah on this trip - and have quite a few pics. We were in Timbavati and Ngala Tented camp when we saw them. Just lucky I guess in that respect.

FWIW, I would definitely check other ta's out for picing. For that amount, you have a right to know where the money is going. I always ask for a breakdown and have always received one. That way you can add/subract activities, air/lodging knowing what prices you have in front of you.

As mentioned, there are plenty of places to stay; the experts have mentioned the best. We loved our trip to Sabi and Timbavati and because of those memories we are returning to East Africa for the migration. But you won't get me near a market!

Just wanted to share my experience as I never ever thought a middle aged women would be attacked in mid-day, full view. I would worry about teens.

Fp

OK I agree with the reasoning for not staying in two lodges close together. So if I am picking one lodge in Sabi Sands...which one? Also where should the second one be if not in Sabi Sands. Craig has suggested a Phinda Vlei Lodge. Is that my best option? Also does anyone know anything about Elephant Back Safari?

If Phinda is an ..AndBeyond (formerly CCA) lodge it should be lovely and seems quite luxurious..gets great reviews.

The only elephant safari that I've heard good things about is at a really exclusive lodge called Camp Julani(sp?) where friends of mine just raved; and thought they could not find a better camp...until they arrived at Singita!

I agree though from previous trips - spend at least 3-4 nights each property - 4 is best!

With your budget you can pretty much chose it all!

FP

Camp Jabulani, sorry - that is the spelling. Although you might find a lot of folks here are not positive about elephant riding - as there is thought that the training could be a negative(cruel) for the elie. I regret that we were talked into our elephant ride; however, it was a small outfit that encouraged education about abused, neglected elephants that would never make it if left in the wild, so at least we felt they cared about their elies. BUT, I did not know of this forum before I went- or I would have researched it a bit more. Just my thoughts.

I'm sure you will bet plenty of great advice here!

FP

My favorite lodges in the Sabi Sands are MalaMala Rattray's, Lion Sands Ivory, and Singita Ebony.

With the exchange rate, MalaMala Rattray's is a really good value right now. They don't take kids under 16 so your kids are old enough. Also, they have four people to a vehicle maximum so you will get a private vehicle.

Craig Beal

OK after the comments about the elephant riding, I agree and may skip it. Thanks Craig for all your great imput! I am still trying to figure this whole trip out and what would be best...

Good luck. Holler if you need anyting!

Craig

Thanks Craig..You have been extremely helpful in making me rethink this whole trip!

The reason why MalaMala Rattrays is a good value is because they are priced in dollars not rand.

Craig

...and the dollar is weak right now making rand priced properties relatively expensive. Craig

$$$ vs Rand, a 5 year history
http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=USDZ...=on&z=m&q=l&c=
the 7.4 today exchange rate is pretty much overall 5yr average. With low of 6 and a blip high of 10. The $$$ may be weak against Euro, Yen, etc. but little changed against the Rand.

regards - tom

Hi Tom,

Good point! I guess a better way of putting this is:

Rattray's rates, since they are in dollars, are relatively better than their neighbors if compared to the converted dollar price the day that 2010 rates were published back in May/June 2009.

Craig Beal