{"id":1503,"date":"2026-01-15T21:49:32","date_gmt":"2026-01-15T21:49:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/safari-specials-for-your-wildlife-wish-list\/"},"modified":"2026-01-15T21:49:32","modified_gmt":"2026-01-15T21:49:32","slug":"safari-specials-for-your-wildlife-wish-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/safari-specials-for-your-wildlife-wish-list\/","title":{"rendered":"Safari specials for your wildlife wish list"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div xmlns:default=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<p>Africa\u2019s wild heart beats in rhythm with the wildlife that roam its plains, forests and coastlines.\u00a0 Exploring different ecosystems and conservancies across Africa allows for unique opportunities to spot different species in spectacular wildlife havens where they truly flourish.<\/p>\n<p>These sightings can be very memorable.\u00a0 For instance, I will never forget the spine-tingling roar of lions in the Masai Mara in the dead of night, the adrenaline rush of \u00a0tracking wild dogs at great speed in Madikwe \u2026 the emotion of seeing rhinos up close in the far flung regions of Namibia \u2026 \u00a0and the awe of meeting ancient tortoises on Changuu island.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few of my favourite places to spot safaris specials\u2026<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-wild-dogs-in-madikwe-game-reserve-south-africa\">Wild dogs in Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa<\/h2>\n<p>The rugged wonderland of\u00a0Madikwe Game Reserve is a unique reserve, where red earth meets acacia woodland. Elephants rule here \u2014 towering, wise, and often found quenching their thirst at the reserve\u2019s shimmering waterholes. Just as majestic are Madikwe\u2019s famed\u00a0African wild dogs, also known as painted wolves, moving in tight-knit packs that hunt with astonishing coordination. Watching their swift, silent teamwork at dawn feels like witnessing nature\u2019s choreography in action.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209179 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209179\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Wild-Dogs-in-Madikwe.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Enjoy affordable, rustic charm at Mosetlha Bush Camp and Eco Lodge where wildlife gathers daily at the camp\u2019s bird bath and incredible guided walks are on offer with local guide Justice \u2013 or splash out on a luxury suite with private plunge pool at the popular, ultra luxurious Madikwe Safari Lodge.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-leopards-in-mashatu-game-reserve-botswana\">Leopards in Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana<\/h2>\n<p>Mashatu Game Reserve is known as the \u201cLand of Giants\u201d for its towering baobabs and huge elephant herds \u2013 but it\u2019s the\u00a0leopards\u00a0that often steal the show here! I have never seen so many different leopards in one day as I have done in Mashatu! \u00a0Sleek, elusive, and endlessly captivating, these cats thrive among Mashatu\u2019s sandstone ridges. Your best chance to see one? At dusk, when they begin their silent prowl in the \u00a0golden light and shadows.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209180 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209180\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Leopards-at-Mashatu.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Book a stay at Mashatu Euphorbia which boasts just eight villas, elevated high on a ridge, tucked in a Euphorbia forest with cinematic views over the Majale riverbed. If its leopards you are after, be sure to check availability to also spend a night of unmatched predator action at the Lala Limpopo overnight hide.\u00a0 It\u2019s no wonder Mashatu was recently awarded \u201cBest Game Reserve in Southern Africa 2025\u201d at the World Luxury Travel Awards.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-rhinos-in-onguma-nature-reserve-namibia\">Rhinos in Onguma Nature Reserve, Namibia<\/h2>\n<p>Onguma Nature Reserve, located on the eastern fringe of Namibia\u2019s iconic Etosha National Park, protects one of Africa\u2019s most threatened treasures \u2014\u00a0rhinos. Tracking these prehistoric giants on foot alongside expert guides delivers an unmatched rush: the soft crack of dust underfoot, the guide\u2019s gesture to pause, the sight of a rhino emerging from the scrub \u2014 both humbling and unforgettable. This sanctuary is one of the safest havens for\u00a0black and white rhinos thanks to its highly trained APU team and the latest tech.  Their survival here tells a story of resilience.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209181 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209181\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Rhinos-in-Onguma-Namibia.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Onguma Camp Kala\u00a0is Onguma\u2019s flagship luxury lodge with just four stunning suites elevated on stilts, offering spectacular birds eye views over a busy watering hole.\u00a0 The intimate camp combines contemporary luxury with a deep respect for conservation and a commitment to sustainability. Evenings end with stargazing from your private plunge pool, wood fired hot tub, or from your outdoor bed in your private sala.\u00a0Pure bliss. Photo by Nadia Snijders.<\/p>\n<div class=\"aluxu-in-content\" style=\"margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; \" id=\"aluxu-1388378406\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column200850_2575e4-46\">\n<div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col perfmatters-lazy-css-bg\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-everything-you-need-to-plan-your-trip-in-2025\">Everything you need to plan your trip in 2025<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-lions-in-the-masai-mara-kenya\">Lions in the Masai Mara, Kenya<\/h2>\n<p>No safari roundup is complete without the\u00a0Masai Mara, where the golden savannah stretches endlessly under vast skies. This is the kingdom of\u00a0lions\u00a0\u2014 charismatic rulers seen lazing under acacias or stalking wildebeest during the Great Migration. The Mara\u2019s prides are renowned for their sheer numbers and close family bonds, offering intimate views of big-cat life against one of the world\u2019s most cinematic backdrops.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209182 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209182\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lions-at-Mara-Bushtops.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Stay at Mara Bushtops, which is one of the most exclusive safari camps in the Mara, set within the private Isaaten conservancy that borders the National Park (unfenced border allowing for wildlife to roam freely) and offers superb game viewing with minimal vehicles and far fewer restrictions like allowing for night drives etc. The camp features just 12 expansive luxury tents, with large wooden decks, sunken hot tubs and sweeping views over a busy wildlife salt lick.<\/p>\n<p>\u200bGuests enjoy personalised butler service, \u00e0 la carte dining with excellent wine pairings and no set meal times. Mara Bushtops is also renowned for its award\u2011winning Amani spa, infinity star pool and access to night drives and walking safaris, creating a rare blend of deep comfort and authentic \u201cwild luxury\u201d.  Isaaten is also community owned so you know your stay is making a positive impact on local Maasai families. Photo by Oliver Fly. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cheetahs-in-serengeti-national-park-tanzania\">Cheetahs in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania<\/h2>\n<p>Venture into\u00a0the central Serengeti, where open plains stretch so wide they seem to touch the horizon. Here, the\u00a0cheetah\u00a0reigns supreme \u2014 the fastest land animal, built for bursts of breathtaking acceleration. Watching a cheetah sprint through the grasslands in pursuit of a gazelle is an experience that defies description; it\u2019s pure, primal energy in motion.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209183 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209183\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The new Warangi Ridge Lodge by The Wilderness Collection is dramatically set against granite ridges with sweeping views over the savanna, grasslands and kopjes. It boasts just 15 beautiful, tented suites inspired by the silhouette of the endangered pangolin (which can also be spotted in the area, if you are very, very lucky!), each with a private deck, plunge pool, outdoor shower and freestanding bathtub. Central facilities include an impressive infinity pool built into the rocks, a gym, spa and an elevated restaurant, lounge bar and library tucked among acacia trees. The lodge is tucked away in a crowd-free, semi-restricted area of the park with a cheetah research project located nearby, so your chances of \u201cspotting\u201d a few are very good!<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-buffalos-in-the-ngorongoro-crater-tanzania\">Buffalos in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania<\/h2>\n<p>Game drives in the iconic Ngorongoro Crater are legendary.\u00a0 This natural amphitheatre is teeming with wildlife, including zebras, flamingos, hippos \u2013 and large herds of buffalo! \u00a0Cape Buffalo are massive, unflinching, and always watchful. You are well advised to give them respect!  Estimates suggest there are over 4,000 in the crater, making sightings almost guaranteed \u2013 sometimes in herds of hundreds.\u00a0 This volcanic caldera honestly feels like stepping into an ancient Garden of Eden, sealed in perfect harmony.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209184 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Buffalo-in-Ngorongoro-Crater.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Perched right on the rim, Craters Edge by The Wilderness Collection offers just 15 tented suites raised on stilts and tucked into acacia woodland, blending refined safari style with panoramic vistas from your bed, deck or private lounge with cozy fireplace.\u00a0 Guests can enjoy expertly guided game drives inside the crater (arriving long before most day visitors due to its quick and easy access via Lemala Gate), crater-rim walks, and special experiences such as picnic lunches on the crater floor and stargazing back at camp.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tortoises-on-changuu-island-zanzibar\">Tortoises on Changuu Island, Zanzibar<\/h2>\n<p>Trade savannah dust for island breezes on\u00a0Changuu Island (also known as Turtle Island or Prison Island), just off the coast of Zanzibar. Here lives a colony of\u00a0Aldabra (Alhambra) giant tortoises, ancient creatures that embody patience and longevity. As they move slowly under palm shade beside turquoise shores, they remind you that Africa\u2019s wonders are not only fast or ferocious \u2014 some endure quietly, timelessly. Peacocks also wander freely around the old ruins and pathways, often displaying their bright tail feathers in the sun.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209185 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Tortoises-in-Zanzibar.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>A new resort will be opening in 2026\/2027 on the island \u2013 but for now you can stay on nearby Bawe Island, also by The Cocoon Collection.\u00a0 Enjoy ocean swims, snorkelling, diving and sunset dinners on the private beach, surrounded by turquoise Indian Ocean and protected coral reefs. \u200bThe 30-hectare private island is home to a just one luxury resort with 70 villas, each with a private pool, generous terrace and butler service. Bawe works perfectly as a post\u2011safari finale: remote enough to feel secluded, yet close enough to Stone Town (15 minutes by speed boat) for spice tours and cultural visits on the Zanzibar mainland.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-birdlife-in-zambia\">Birdlife in Zambia<\/h2>\n<p>Zambia\u2019s South Luangwa National Park and Nsefu Game Reserve are known for their incredible wildlife, but this region of Zambia also boasts prolific birdlife for twitchers and bird watchers. Carmine bee eaters are one of the most spectacular seasonal sights here, arriving in large numbers from about August and staying through roughly November.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209186 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209186\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Carmines-in-Zambia.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Their bright carmine, turquoise, and blue plumage forms a vivid moving curtain along the Luangwa River\u2019s vertical sandbanks, where they nest communally in thousands of burrows dug 1\u20132 metres into the bank. These noisy colonies can be heard from over a kilometre away as birds constantly commute between nests and feeding areas.<\/p>\n<p>Carmines River Lodge is an intimate luxury safari retreat scheduled to open in June 2026. Set on a private 54\u2011acre island between two rivers, it is home to a vast colony of striking Carmine Bee Eaters.\u200b The camp will comprise just three elevated two\u2011bedroom villas when it opens, promising the ultimate privacy, personalised service and expansive views from freestanding baths, indoor\u2013outdoor showers and its private plunge pools.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-elands-in-the-drakensberg-south-africa\">Elands in the Drakensberg, South Africa<\/h2>\n<p>Africa\u2019s largest antelope, the Eland, is a magnificent beast!\u00a0 The \u201clast\u201d eland in the Northern Drakensberg mountains of South Africa was shot in about 1948 because they were considered a nuisance on the Tugela Gorge path \u00a0\u2013 so for many years, sadly, there wasn\u2019t a single eland in the area. Thankfully,  they were reintroduced into the Sterkfontein Nature Reserve and over the past 15 years they have flourished again and today large breeding herds of over 100 can be seen in the recently proclaimed Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209187 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-920x767.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-920x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-209187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-920x767.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-460x383.jpg 460w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg-768x640.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Elands-in-the-Drakensberg.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>These beautiful antelope can often be seen roaming through The Cavern Drakensberg Resort &amp; Spa, and encountered on the various self-guided walks and guided hikes. The Cavern is a long\u2011established, family\u2011run resort set in a forested valley, adjacent to the Ukhahlamba\u2011Drakensberg World Heritage Site.\u00a0 The resort offers family\u2011friendly activities such as horse riding, fishing, mountain biking, tennis, bowls, swimming pools and children\u2019s programmes, making it easy to combine wildlife viewing with a relaxed nature based holiday.  Photo by Frankie Watkins-Ball<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-safari-specials\">Safari specials<\/h2>\n<p>From South Africa\u2019s painted wolves to Zanzibar\u2019s ancient tortoises, Africa will undoubtedly \u201cwow\u201d you with its wonderful wildlife, no matter which species is top of your wish list.\u00a0 Why not book your safari adventure in search of some of its specials for 2026? <\/p>\n<p>Please share in the comments some of the special species you would like to go in search of in the year ahead?<\/p>\n<p><!-- [element-193316] --><\/p>\n<div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id193316_b432e7-a3 alignnone has-theme-palette8-background-color kt-row-has-bg author-block-lt wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\">\n<div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column193316_c6286c-35\">\n<div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col perfmatters-lazy-css-bg\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image193316_acb723-29\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-  perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/claire-roadley_avatar-150x150.jpeg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aluxurytravelblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/claire-roadley_avatar-150x150.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img wp-image- \"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column193316_797cdd-a3\">\n<div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col perfmatters-lazy-css-bg\">\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading193316_c0dc96-75 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading193316_c0dc96-75\">Claire Roadley<\/h3>\n<p>Claire Roadley is Founder of Umlingo. Umlingo promotes authentic, sustainable hotels and safari eco lodges across Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.  If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [\/element-193316] --><!-- [element-193656] --><\/p>\n<div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id193656_0f9728-ea alignnone kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\">\n<div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column193656_c6d578-96 inner-column-1\">\n<div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col perfmatters-lazy-css-bg\">\n<div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id193656_10939d-49 alignnone kt-row-has-bg wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\">\n<div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column193656_ce670a-6f inner-column-1\">\n<div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col perfmatters-lazy-css-bg\">\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading193656_e5d158-25 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-3-color has-text-color\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading193656_e5d158-25\">Did you enjoy this article?<\/h3>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading193656_722575-1b wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading193656_722575-1b\">Receive similar content direct to your inbox.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><\/p>\n<p>Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form<\/p>\n<p><\/noscript><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [\/element-193656] --><\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Africa\u2019s wild heart beats in rhythm with the wildlife that roam its plains, forests and coastlines.\u00a0 Exploring different ecosystems and conservancies across Africa allows for unique opportunities to spot different species in spectacular wildlife havens where they truly flourish. These sightings can be very memorable.\u00a0 For instance, I will never forget the spine-tingling roar of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1504,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_daextam_enable_autolinks":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1503","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-food"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Cheetahs-at-Warangi-Ridge-Serengeti-1.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1503","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1503"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1503\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1504"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1503"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1503"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/diyhaven858.wasmer.app\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1503"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}