THE KORI BUSTARD

The Kori Bustard is an omnivore and one of the heaviest birds on the African continent. In fact, some birds have been found to weigh almost 20 kilograms.

Due to their large size and confidence, you’re likely to spot kori bustards quite easily when driving in the game parks. This is a terrestrial bird that is characterised by its long neck and feet, and the black crest on top of its head. Each eye is highlighted by a white strip above it. The top, visible part of the body is brown, while the underside is a lighter cream colour. The shoulders are highlighted with a black and white checked pattern. Because they are so heavy, Kori Bustards opt for walking; flying only when it is absolutely necessary. Still, when they do fly, their true power is witnessed as they glide through the African skies almost effortlessly. Their walk is elegant and slow.

HABITAT

The Kori Bustard lives in open plains and grassy savannahs, preferably with some trees and shrubbery. However, in some cases, they may be found in more arid areas. Essentially, the Kori Bustard prefers a habitat that is open enough for them to gauge their surroundings at all times. This bird does not tend to migrate unless food and water is in scarce supply.

DISTRIBUTION

The Kori Bustard can be found in South Africa and its surrounding countries (Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana), as well as in East Africa (Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania). The spectacular Etosha National Park (Namibia) and the Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) are both home to this species.

DIET

As an omnivore, the Kori Bustard feeds on berries, as well as little animals (including snakes and lizards), while juveniles feed mainly on protein-rich insects. Interestingly, the Kori Bustard drinks by sucking the water up, as opposed to using its bill to scoop it.

SOCIALISATION

The Kori Bustard tends to stay in one area for as long as food and water resources are plentiful, rather than migrating. These birds are happy to amble the savannahs on their own, but are also often seen in groups or pairs. When faced with danger, the Kori Bustard will try to leave on foot before resorting to flight. As a group, they walk slowly and in a loose line across the grasslands as they forage for food.

COMMUNICATION

To woo the female, the male Bustard will ruffle its feathers and inflate its neck, performing a dance to impress her. They can also inflate their bill, and make a loud noise, while she takes notice of his efforts.

LIFE EXPECTANCY

Although it has not been established in the wild, Kori Bustards have been observed to reach between 26 and 28 years in captivity.

PREDATORS

The Kori Bustard’s numbers are in gradual decline, but they are still readily found in the wild. Humans are their largest threat, as their habitat is endangered by urban development and pollution. They are also victims of hunting.

When you see a Kori Bustard for the first time you will be shocked at the size and amazing he/she is. They are so beautiful.

REFERENCES

Krugerpark; National Zoo and arkive.org.

MAKGADIKGADI PANS

Located in the Kalahari Basin, the Makgadikgadi Pans are the vast salty remains of a 2 million year old lake and is practically devoid of human habitation.. Evidence of the past, dates back to the Stone Ages and is a draw card for fossil seekers.

You might even see engravings in the trunks of ancient baobab trees left behind by explorers David Livingstone and Frederick Selous that mark their passage through the region. This is one of the few places on earth where you feel like you are part of the world’s extraordinary history and evolution. The deafening silence and brilliance of the night sky’s stars is something that can only be experienced in this isolated and often described as “eerily haunting” place.

The Salt pans cover an area of 12 000 sq kms (1 200 000 ha) which is about the size of Portugal.  The Pans are home to the second largest zebra migration in Africa. They move from the west, near the Boteli River, which is their home during the dry season to the east when the rains start to fall in November and December each year. During the dry months (April to October) the pans are full of adventure from quad biking, guided walks, horse rides and traditional game drives.

From December to May, the rainy season, large herds of blue wildebeest, zebra, springbok and gemsbok may be seen as this is when the Boteli River flows through the reserve. The Okavango floodwaters are high and everything becomes lush and green.

Flamingos, migratory ducks, pelicans and geese flocking in by the thousands making the Pans a birders paradise. The charming little meerkat (also known as the suricat) is a highlight for many visitors to the area.  Luckily we know this region and can add this beautiful place and is a must on a Botswana itinerary.

KINGS CAMP

Reflecting the charm and romance of a bygone era in a pristine corner of unspoilt Africa. Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Kings Camp faces an open savanna plain with a waterhole, which is frequented by a wide variety of wildlife both day and night.

As part of the greater Kruger National Park, which covers an area of 2.2 million hectares, this Timbavati safari lodge is a wildlife haven boasting a diversity of animal life including the Big 5. With 100 km² of bush to traverse, you have plenty of space to explore the endless variety of Africa’s wildlife in an open Land Rover or on foot.

 

LUXURY SUITE

Each suite is equipped with air-conditioning, ball-and-claw bath tub, indoor and outdoor shower and a private verandah overlooking the bush. The pinnacle of Timbavati accommodation, Kings Camp offers luxury like no other. Convenient amenities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, robes, mosquito nets and repellent, a mini bar, tea and coffee facilities, a hairdryer, safe and a telephone.

FAMILY SUITES

Treat your family to a safari experience like no other. The inter-leading Family Suites combine world-class luxury with privacy and convenience. For families or intimate groups, the Family Suite joins 2 Luxury Suites with an interleading door, offering the ideal balance of space and convenience. Each suite is equipped with air-conditioning, ball-and-claw bath tub, indoor and outdoor shower and a private verandah overlooking the bush. The pinnacle of Timbavati accommodation, Kings Camp offers luxury like no other. Convenient amenities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, robes, mosquito nets and repellent, a mini bar, tea and coffee facilities, a hairdryer, safe and a telephone.

HONEYMOON SUITE

The spacious, open-plan design of the 2 air-conditioned Honeymoon Suites offers an intimate and romantic bush escape. Two sets of double doors open onto a private verandah and frame outstanding views from this Timbavati game lodge. The open-plan lounge and bathroom, with both indoor and outdoor showers, offers a wide range of luxurious amenities and fittings to ensure utmost comfort.

Recline on a plush armchair or stretch out on the luscious four-poster, king-sized bed, with front row seats to the vibrant bush. Leaders in luxurious safari hospitality, the team at Kings Camp treat each guest with the utmost care, ensuring an experience unlike any other.

 

WATERBUCK PRIVATE LODGE

Seven generously spacious Luxury and Family Suites and two exquisite Honeymoon Suites are luxuriously equipped with air-conditioning, Victorian ball-and-claw bath, indoor and outdoor double shower, fully stocked mini-bar and private verandah. Each Honeymoon Suite has a private verandah with large plunge pool overlooking the African bush. The ultimate in safari privacy, Waterbuck Private Camp at Kings Camp, boasts a four-bedroomed villa with its own Land Rover with game ranger and tracker, as well as a villa attendant and chef to take care of your every need!

ACTIVITES

Explore the wildness of the Timbavati on a Kings Camp safari

Guests planning a Kings Camp safari in the Timbavati can look forward to twice daily game drives in custom-designed safari vehicles, night drives with a spotlight in search of nocturnal creatures, guided bush walks and specialised bird watching safaris with expert guides. The Timbavati is especially well known for its frequent elephant sightings, as well as leopard and rare African wild dog. It is also home to over 350 bird species, making it a must-see destination for keen bird watchers.

KOSHER SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA

Offering top notch South Africa Kosher safaris, Kings Camp Private Game Reserve is the best place to treat your family to a carefree bush getaway. Our experienced team will ensure every detail is taken care of so you can sit back and enjoy the breath-taking natural beauty of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.

Kosher travellers planning a safari holiday in South Africa are well catered for at Kings Camp in the Timbavati. Kings Camp Private Game Reserve offers the kosher traveller the unique opportunity to enjoy the splendours of the bush, while dining on top quality kosher cuisine prepared under the strictest kashrut supervision.

South Africa has a large Jewish population and even the strictest of our local Kosher clients are satisfied with the standard of food prepared at Kings. All catering is done through a licensed, fully-equipped Kosher kitchen certified by the Beth-Din Council of South Africa.

Kings Camp is known for its exceptional service, outstanding luxurious rooms, décor and comfort, but has wonderful game viewing and the staff have great smiles and the lodge has attention to detail. Perfect for a luxury stay in Kruger for first time visitors, honeymooners or families that want to be together. We highly recommend Kings Camp! Contact us so we can assist you in booking the best deals for this extraordinary lodge.

Photography & content provided by Kings Camp

 

 

 

NEW RHINO SANDS LODGE

Back in 2005, the Airton and Alexander families launched Rhino River Lodge in Manyoni Private Game Reserve. Rhino River Lodge provides a comfortable, personal and affordable private safari experience, and has become one of the premier private safari lodges in the area with a reputation for excellent customer service and superior value for money.

THE HISTORY 

In October of 2017 the Airton family is opening their new safari venture in Manyoni Private Game Reserve, Rhino Sands Safari Camp. The camp’s concept was created to reflect their love of safari and commitment to conservation. The ECO – friendly luxury tented camp is designed to offer safari guests an intimate way to reconnect with nature and one another in classic safari style. The Rhino Sands team were each individually selected in large part due to their passion for safari and their love of Africa’s wild places. The team is overseen by Dale and Shannon Airton.

DALE & SHANNON AIRTON 

Dale knew he was destined to be a game ranger from a young age. As a child, he developed a love for animals, wild spaces, and the game reserves of Zululand. He obtained a diploma in Conservation and began his career in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park in 1999. During his years there he worked as a student ranger, lion and elephant monitor, trails guide, and rhino monitor. He then began working for the San Diego Zoological Society monitoring black rhinos in reserves throughout the country and was involved in the release and monitoring of black rhinos through the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion project. It was through this position that Manyoni Private Game Reserve became known to him and a few years later he was managing and running a property within the reserve, and an ecotourism business to go along with it. Dale now serves as the general manager of Rhino River Lodge and Rhino Sands Safari Camp.

Shannon first moved to South Africa in 2002 to research white rhinos for the San Diego Zoological Society in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. She has a bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution and a master’s degree in Biological Anthropology. Since her work with white rhinos, she has been involved with research projects studying the behaviour of African wild dogs and the population dynamics of leopards. Once Dale and Shannon’s son, Wyatt, was born in 2014 she decided to stay closer to home and is now helping run the family business. In her spare time, she has taken up conservation journalism, writing and blogging about conservation topics for various websites and magazines.

THE MAIN CAMP

Designed to bring an authentic safari experience in traditional East African style to Kwa-Zulu Natal, Rhino Sands Safari Camp is an 8-bed luxury tented camp set on a peninsula in the Msunduze River in Manyoni Private Game Reserve. The entire camp is set under canvas upon wooden platforms within the riverine forest. The main camp area features a reception office, casual bar lounge space, formal lounge, and both formal and casual dining areas. There is also a large boma area complete with bush oven for guests to enjoy dining fireside beneath the stars.

GREEN SAFARI 

Rhino Sands is ecofriendly and has been constructed with minimal disruption to the natural forest, highlighting rather than dominating the surrounding environment. Electricity runs entirely on a solar installation. Offering organic coffee and teas, wines produced using biodynamic methods, seasonal menus, and biodegradable and organic amenities, the environment and our impact upon it has been considered with every decision made in running Rhino Sands.

OUR TENTS

Guests can stay in one of four luxurious custom-built private tented suites located amid beautiful riverine forest, each featuring a private living area, outdoor shower, and swimming pool. Each tent opens completely on three sides so guests can immerse themselves in the wilderness experience. All tents have stunning views of the river bed below. The camp has been designed and decorated with an emphasis on the romance of the classical safari experience, with a nod towards traditional safari styling but including all the modern luxuries.

THE EXPERIENCE

The goal at Rhino Sands is for each guest to experience every day on safari as a unique and exciting adventure, and our team has been empowered to create this feeling for them. We want to share with our guests the special part of safari that our team has fallen in love with…things like bush picnics, riverbed braais, and decadent sundowner stops. Each day will be a little different from the day before and we hope to inspire our guests to take these special opportunities to truly appreciate the magic that the African bush holds.

SPECTACULAR WILDLIFE 

The experience revolves around two daily safari drives within Manyoni Private Game Reserve. The reserve is one of the premier game-viewing destinations in Kwa-Zulu Natal and is home to the Big 5 along with African wild dogs and cheetahs, as well as large numbers of all the more common African animals. One of the most special moments on game drive are the rest stops, in the morning for coffee and tea and in the evening for sundowner drinks. Guests get a chance to pause and absorb the bush around them while stretching their legs and enjoying refreshments and snacks. We suggest guests take this time to enjoy an exceptional wilderness moment.

AT CAMP

In between game drives, guests can take advantage of the camp facilities. Upon returning from the morning drive a decadent breakfast is served. Guests can relax at the camp’s lounge or bar deck and watch the myriad of bird life in the riverine forest. A light lunch is served mid-afternoon and guests can find respite from the heat in their private swimming pool while watching the reserve’s animals drink from watering holes in the river below. Afternoon tea precedes the evening game drive. After returning to camp the chef will prepare a gourmet three-course dinner, featuring some of the flavours and ingredients South Africa is famous for. As the day draws to a close spend time with us having a night cap around the campfire sharing stories or retire to your tent to fall asleep to the night time melodies of the bush.

THE HEART OF RHINO SANDS

Rhino Sands’ ethos is one of connection with nature and people. This is why we have chosen a tented camp rather than built structures and why we decided to keep our numbers small and intimate. While we do provide wifi for our guests in their rooms in between safari and meal times, we kindly ask all of our guests to refrain from using their devices in our public spaces. We believe that disconnecting from our busy digital lives and living in the moment is one of the most precious parts of the safari experience and this enables us to connect not just with the environment, but with one another as well.

Rhino Sands is one of our gems, we love selling this experience as it works.  Contact us when you are ready to visit this beautiful lodge.

 

 

LION CAMP SOUTH LUANGA

DISCOVERED BY MANTIS

Lion Camp is a hidden gem located in the northernmost reaches of Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park; one of the best places in Africa for an authentic wilderness safari.

Being away from the park gates, we provide safaris as they should be abundant game viewing and few other vehicles. The South Luangwa National Park is not just an animal refuge, but a living, breathing ecosystem carefully preserved and fiercely protected.  It is home to over 60 animal species and 400 bird species which all live off the Luangwa River the lifeblood of the Luangwa Valley.

Easily accessible from Mfuwe Airport, Lion Camp operates between May and October in a pristine ecosystem and provides the perfect balance of authentic bush and luxurious comfort.  Elevated above the Luangwa Valley floor with a ‘tree house’ aesthetic, our canvas and thatch tents connect to the main area with a central winding walkway.  All the tents have spectacular panoramic views of the oxbow lagoon and feature a shaded private deck.

This lodge is raw, luxurious and perfect for a game viewing experience. We highly recommend everything this lodge represents. Contact us to get you there.

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