Babylonstoren

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Garden wanderers. Wine lovers. Food enthusiasts. Adventurous families. Slow travelers who savor heritage and soil.

MOMENTS

Early mornings spent barefoot in the garden. Cycling through vineyards with the Simonsberg rising in the distance. Long, lingering lunches under the oaks. Canoeing on the serene farm dam. Wandering through the Story of Wine museum, surrounded by centuries of stories in corks, maps, and barrels. Wine tasting in the cellar where the air smells of oak and earth. Watching the sunset turn the mountains gold.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Come in spring (September–November) when the gardens are alive with blossoms, or during autumn harvest (March–May) when the vines glow gold and the cellars brim with new vintages. Summer is bright and fragrant, with long warm days and fruit at its ripest, while winter brings quiet beauty, crackling fireplaces, and full-bodied reds best savored slowly.

COST

WHY STAY

Babylonstoren is a working Cape Dutch farm at the foot of the Simonsberg, in South Africa’s famed Cape Winelands, where heritage and contemporary design exist in effortless harmony. Here, vineyards sprawl across fertile valleys framed by the Drakenstein Mountains, less than an hour from Cape Town yet worlds away in atmosphere.

Whitewashed 17th-century gables and cobbled courtyards set the tone, while the interiors of the suites and cottages balance rustic textures with modern simplicity—thick stone walls, fireplaces, and glass additions that frame the surrounding gardens and mountains. Guided by owner and design visionary Karen Roos, every detail feels intentional, where architecture and interiors remain deeply connected to the land.

The farm is alive with rhythm and ritual. Guests wake to the sound of guinea fowl in the orchards, wander through twelve acres of fruit and vegetable gardens, and join gardeners and winemakers in the daily work of harvesting, pruning, and tasting. The spa, inspired by the healing qualities of water and plants, offers a serene pause—its hammam, hot spa, and vitality pools designed to echo the farm’s natural cycles. Afterward, it’s back into the landscape, whether soaking in the quiet of a lily pond or cycling into the vineyards.

But staying here is also about savoring the abundance Babylonstoren creates. Beyond the award-winning Babel Restaurant and Greenhouse café, the farm’s shops offer a trove of take-home treasures—artisan cheeses, cured meats, freshly baked bread, olive oil, honey, herbal teas, preserves, and, of course, the farm’s own wine portfolio. Each product reflects the same ethos as the farm itself: simple, seasonal, and connected to place. It’s a rare stay where South Africa’s geography, Cape Dutch heritage, food, and landscape all speak the same language—of soil, tradition, and slow living.

WHY WANDER

Babylonstoren stretches across 200 hectares of orchards, vineyards, gardens, and mountains, inviting you to move at the rhythm of the farm. Take a guided garden tour through acres of fruit and vegetables, each plot grown organically and in season. Join the team in harvesting figs, pressing olives, or pruning vines, and you’ll begin to understand the farm’s cycles firsthand. Follow it with a cellar tour, where Babylonstoren’s winemakers reveal how gravity-fed production and diverse fermenters shape their ten wines—and yes, there’s tasting along the way.

But wandering here also means losing yourself in the small moments. Paddle a canoe on the farm’s peaceful dam, cycle through orchards on one of the complimentary mountain bikes, or hike up Babylonstoren Hill for views that sweep from the Simonsberg to the Drakenstein Valley. Pause for tea and homemade scones at the Greenhouse, tucked beneath oaks and glass walls, or simply linger in the silence of the gardens, watching dragonflies skip over lily ponds.

And just beyond the farm, Soetmelksvlei opens a window into the late 19th century. This living farmyard recreates a slower pace of life, where butter is churned by hand, wheat milled daily, and moerkoffie served at the farmhouse table. Visitors can join workshops in blacksmithing, carpentry, leathercraft, or distilling, explore the Old Cellar’s blend of exhibition and play, or browse the farm shop for preserves, knitted blankets, and courtship candles. In the kraal, miniature donkeys Faf and Tjokkie wait alongside cows, horses, sheep, and chickens, reminding guests that animals, too, are at the heart of the farm.

INDULGE IN

At Babylonstoren, food is a celebration of the farm. The award-winning Babel Restaurant transforms just-picked produce into plates that are both rustic and refined, while the Greenhouse serves simple, seasonal fare in a sun-dappled conservatory. Fumoir and themed evenings at the Old Bakery add to the rhythm of eating and gathering, and the Tasting Room pairs the farm’s ten wines with boards of cheese, charcuterie, and seasonal fruits.

The experience extends into Babylonstoren’s shops, where farm-made cheeses, baked goods, olive oil, honey, teas, and preserves invite guests to take the flavors of the Cape home. Add in the celebrated wine portfolio—from crisp Chenin Blanc to the flagship Nebukadnesar blend—and you have a destination where every taste is tied to the land itself.

GETTING THERE

Babylonstoren lies in the Drakenstein Valley between Paarl and Franschhoek, about a 45-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport. Roads wind through vineyards and mountains, making the journey itself a passage into the Cape Winelands.

WILD INITIATIVES

Sustainability is the farm’s guiding principle. Babylonstoren runs on regenerative farming practices, recycles its water, and prioritizes soil health and biodiversity in every vineyard and garden. The Story of Wine museum educates visitors on wine’s cultural and environmental legacy, while daily tours bring guests into the heart of regenerative agriculture. Every experience here ties luxury to stewardship, showing how heritage farming can shape a more sustainable future.

*Images property of Babylonstoren Hotel

Sashwa River of Stars

South Africa

PERSONALITIES

Mindfulness practitioners. Ethical Explorers. Soul searchers. Solo Travellers. Plant-based eaters. Yogis. Wildlife lovers. Bird watchers. Stargazers.

MOMENTS

Sunrise meditation and breathwork. Africa’s iconic wildlife in its most natural and unrestricted form. Starlit sky. Celebrating the wild. Reconnecting with the natural world at your own pace.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

At Sashwa, every month and season offers something truly special, inviting you to experience nature's ever-changing wonders in a unique way. From the dry, cooler winter months between May and September, where the perennial Olifants River draws in an array of wildlife to its banks, to the vibrant wet season from October to April, where migratory birds flock and many animals welcome their young, each time of year has its own charm.

The Winter Season (May - September):
Mid-May marks the transition from summer to winter, bringing with it a landscape that shifts into warm shades of golden yellows and earthy browns. With many trees shedding their leaves, the silhouettes of branches stretch towards the sky. Wildlife gathers at the remaining waterholes and the perennial rivers, like the Olifants River - where you’ll have the chance to marvel at hippos basking in the sun on the banks, elephants quenching their thirst, antelope grazing nearby, and birds dancing over the water’s surface.   While night temperatures can dip to 10°C, the days warm up to a pleasant 27°C, offering the perfect conditions for scenic Wilderness Walks, breathtaking sunsets, and indulgent moments in our infrared sauna at the Wholeness Centre. The starry skies above Sashwa invite you to unwind with a soothing Star Bath.

The Green Season (October - April):
As the season shifts in September, the days grow hotter, and the skies darken with the anticipation of afternoon thunderstorms. When the rains arrive, they transform the landscape overnight, painting the surroundings in vibrant shades of green, and filling the air with the hum of new life. This is a time of abundance—migratory birds flock to the area, and the distinctive call of the Woodlands Kingfisher echoes along the riverbanks. It's also when many animals give birth to their young, adding a sense of joy and excitement to the bush. While the days can be warm and humid, with temperatures soaring above 40°C at times, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Early morning safari drives offer refreshing coolness, while the saltwater swimming pool provides a welcome retreat during the hotter hours. Air-conditioned spaces offer a tranquil escape for a mid-day siesta, ensuring you remain comfortable no matter the temperature.

Whether you're drawn to the tranquil serenity of the dry season or the lush vibrancy of the wet season, Sashwa invites you to immerse yourself in the rhythm of nature, with all its beauty and contrasts.

COST

WHY STAY

Sashwa River of Stars is a landscape hotel set along the banks of the Olifants River in the heart of Greater Kruger Park in South Africa. Named for the way its shimmering waters reflect the brilliance of the Milky Way above, this secluded sanctuary offers an unparalleled connection to the rhythms of nature. With no borders separating it from the vast Kruger National Park, wildlife moves freely across 2.5 million hectares of protected wilderness, providing guests with a rare and intimate view of Africa’s most iconic species. Whether it’s watching elephants wade through the river, spotting vibrant birdlife in the lush gardens, or listening to the distant roar of lions under a starlit sky, every moment at Sashwa is a celebration of the wild.

The lodge features twelve elegantly designed suites, each thoughtfully crafted to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Guests can choose from premier riverfront, luxury garden, and traditional rondavel suites, all equipped with organic amenities, meditation cushions, and private outdoor decks for quiet reflection. The Eagle Premier Riverfront, Butterfly, and Lioness Luxury Garden Suites offer added indulgence with freestanding bathtubs and plush cotton robes. For those seeking a direct connection to the river, only three suites—Eagle Premier Riverfront, Owl Luxury Riverfront, and Sunbird Luxury Riverfront—offer breathtaking, unobstructed views of the water. From sunrise to sunset, the ever-changing scenery invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the natural world in absolute comfort.

Beyond the luxurious accommodations, Sashwa offers an unparalleled wellness experience. Guests can unwind in the infrared sauna, take a dip in the saltwater pool while elephants wander nearby, or enjoy yoga and meditation sessions in peaceful studio spaces. The Wholeness Centre provides spa treatments and a fully equipped gym, while an art studio inspires creativity amidst the wild beauty of the African bush.

Sashwa proudly welcomes all travelers and celebrates LGBTQ+ inclusivity, creating a safe, affirming space where everyone can feel truly at home. Every aspect of the lodge is designed to create a meaningful and immersive retreat, where relaxation, adventure, and the wonders of the wilderness come together in perfect harmony.

Koru Camp

“At Sashwa, we believe in the inherent power of nature and profound wildlife experiences to heal, inspire, and transform. We are committed to creating a positive impact through our innovative social enterprise model. Unlike a traditional non-profit, a social enterprise generates profit to achieve specific social objectives. For us, this means supporting Koru Camp, a community engagement tented camp on our shared reserve dedicated to uplifting the previously disadvantaged through educational and empowerment programs.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and our operations are designed to serve the land, the community, and the wildlife. We provide employment and training opportunities for local residents, fostering economic growth and development. We are driven by our core purpose to deeply connect others to nature and wildlife, inspiring them to become positive change-makers in their own lives and the natural world. Our mission is to drive positive change, creating a more equitable and sustainable world by harmonizing transformative travel with deep environmental and social responsibility. “

WHY WANDER

Sashwa is set just outside of Hoedspruit, a hidden gem in South Africa’s Lowveld region, where the untamed beauty of Kruger National Park meets the breathtaking landscapes of Blyde River Canyon. Surrounded by vast wilderness, the area offers a rare combination of lush riverine forests, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping savannas. The Olifants River, which runs through the reserve, attracts an abundance of wildlife, creating an ever-changing spectacle of elephants, hippos, and birdlife. With open borders to Kruger, this pristine location allows guests to experience Africa’s iconic wildlife in its most natural and unrestricted form, while also offering a sense of tranquility away from the crowds.

The landscape surrounding Sashwa is as diverse as it is awe-inspiring. The towering cliffs and verdant slopes of Blyde River Canyon, one of the world’s largest green canyons, provide a striking contrast to the golden grasslands and dense acacia woodlands that define the reserve. Guests can embark on guided hikes, scenic drives, and immersive bush walks, discovering panoramic viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and ancient rock formations. Whether gazing at the dramatic Three Rondavels, exploring lush gorges, or simply soaking in the shifting hues of the African sky, every moment in this landscape fosters a deep connection to nature.

At Sashwa, experiences are designed to engage all the senses, from exhilarating game drives tracking the Big Five to peaceful moments in the lodge’s creative and wellness spaces. Guests can observe wildlife up close from the River of Stars Hide, join a guided yoga or meditation session overlooking the river, or unwind in the Wholeness Centre’s infrared sauna. The lodge also nurtures creativity, offering an open-air studio where guests can paint or sketch inspired by the scenery. As night falls, the magic of the African wilderness takes center stage, with stargazing sessions, fire-lit gatherings, and the distant calls of lions echoing through the landscape.

INDULGE IN

Rooted in a garden-to-table philosophy, Sashwa’s plant-based kitchen prioritizes sustainability, health, and culinary artistry. Led by Chef Arabella Parkinson of Eat to Thrive Consultancy, the food program follows a Circular Gastronomy approach, celebrating local, seasonal, and indigenous ingredients while ensuring that food waste is reintegrated into the ecosystem to regenerate soil. Every dish is carefully crafted to be both vibrant and nourishing, using high-quality whole foods free from processed sugar, refined carbohydrates, and seed oils. Guests are invited to explore the organic permaculture garden, where fresh produce is grown using regenerative techniques, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional value of each meal.

Dining at Sashwa is designed to be as immersive as the surrounding wilderness. The main dining area features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, offering uninterrupted views of the Olifants River and its ever-changing wildlife activity. For those seeking a more intimate experience, outdoor dining spaces provide the perfect setting for leisurely lunches under the pergola or candle-lit dinners beneath the stars. A self-service bar stocked with vegan-friendly wines and thoughtfully curated non-alcoholic beverages enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to sip and savor in harmony with nature.

Sashwa’s dining program reflects a deep commitment to conservation and responsible food practices. By sourcing locally and minimizing waste, the lodge reduces its carbon footprint while celebrating the flavors of the region. Guests are encouraged to engage with the process, whether by learning about permaculture from the lodge’s head gardener or simply experiencing firsthand how food can be both nourishing and regenerative.

GETTING THERE

Sashwa is easily accessible by air and road, offering a seamless journey into the heart of the Greater Kruger wilderness. Daily flights operate from Cape Town International Airport and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport. From there, the lodge is a scenic 1 hour and 15-minute drive away. Travelers can check flight schedules and make bookings through local carriers, Airlink and Cemair.

For a hassle-free arrival, Sashwa offers pre-arranged airport transfers from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport to the lodge at an additional cost. Along the way, the journey through the Greater Kruger Park entrance offers the opportunity to spot wildlife, setting the tone for an unforgettable stay.

For those who prefer to drive, a self-drive option from Johannesburg takes approximately 5 to 6 hours to reach Hoedspruit, followed by an additional 1.5-hour drive to the lodge.

WILD INITIATIVES

“We don’t own the planet Earth, we belong to it. And we must share it with our wildlife.” - Steve Erwin

Sashwa operates as a social enterprise, using its profits to drive meaningful change rather than following a traditional non-profit model. A key initiative is Koru Camp, a community-focused tented camp dedicated to uplifting disadvantaged individuals through educational and empowerment programs. Committed to sustainability, Sashwa integrates environmental and social responsibility into every aspect of its operations, from providing local employment and training opportunities to fostering a deep connection between guests, nature, and wildlife.

At the core of Sashwa’s mission is conservation. Since acquiring the reserve, it has transitioned from a former hunting concession into a thriving sanctuary, restoring biodiversity and ensuring wildlife protection. Recognizing nature as a healing force, Sashwa is dedicated to preserving the land for future generations while promoting a harmonious coexistence between all living beings. Koru Camp plays a vital role in this effort by introducing local communities to their natural heritage through immersive wilderness experiences, conservation education, and sustainable living skills, inspiring a new generation of environmental stewards.

Sustainability is a fundamental pillar of Sashwa, shaping its approach to hospitality and daily operations. A plant-based kitchen and organic permaculture garden provide locally sourced, nutritious meals while minimizing the lodge’s ecological footprint. The property runs entirely on solar power, filters its own water, and prioritizes biodegradable products to reduce waste and pollution.

Photos property of Sashwa, Maike, @douda_bis, fat dassie

POD CAMPS BAY

SOUTH AFRICA

The Personalities

Trendy design-lovers with a taste for luxury.

Moments

Exotic Wildlife. Barefoot luxury. Sounds of the Sea.

Best Visiting Months

October to March

Cost

Why stay

Perched atop the pristine coastline of Camps Bay, POD Boutique Hotel emerges as a beacon of modern luxury amidst the natural wonders of South Africa. Situated just a stone's throw away from the powdery sands of Camps Bay Beach, the hotel offers guests unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Twelve Apostles mountain range. Azure waters and rugged cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop to the contemporary design of the hotel.

Drawing inspiration from its spectacular surroundings, POD Boutique Hotel seamlessly blends modern design with elements of nature. The hotel's minimalist aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and neutral tones, serves to accentuate the natural beauty of its surroundings, allowing guests to feel a profound connection to the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interiors with natural light, while expansive terraces and balconies invite guests to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the ocean, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that epitomizes the essence of coastal living.

Why wander

You don't have to wander far to enjoy true South African nature at POD, with the ocean in front of you and the mountains at your back. Cape Town is famous for its beautiful beaches with white sand and clear water. Visit Camps Bay beach, minutes from the hotel, for a Mediterranean vibe and great restaurants. The Clifton Beaches are characterized by dramatic cliffs and are perfect for yacht watching. Finally, for a romantic picnic visit Llandudno Beach, located at the base of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. To venture out for the day, take a trip to Robben Island to see a wide spectrum of seabirds and mammals, or Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - the most beautiful garden in Africa. For those living an active lifestyle and looking for adrenaline, take a surfing lesson or see the beautiful Cape Town coastline from up high, while skydiving. 

Indulge in

Caipirinhas on the beach. Visit The Cod Father in Camps Bay for great sushi and fresh fish cooked to order. While in the Winelands, visit The Tasting Room, one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, offering creative high-end fare or Babel - for fresh and heathy food from their personal garden.

Getting There

Take a taxi from the Cape Town Airport. 

WILD INITIATIVES

POD supports Greenpop and offers guests the opportunity to offset a portion of their carbon emission by purchasing trees that will be planted in schools, communities and deforested areas in the Western Cape. For more information, please visit www.greenpop.org

POD Camps Bay is committed to conserving the environment and delivering a sustainable hotel operation. During the construction of the property, environmentally friendly building practices were followed and the latest (Green) technology was incorporated into the hotel.

Below is a list of our sustainability systems and policies that we have in place: 

• Solar panel system to aid the heating of the hotels hot water system

• Hot water cylinders controlled by a computerized “Brain” to regulate energy consumption

• Borehole connected to irrigation and all pools

• Flow restrictors installed in all shower heads

• Dual flush toilets installed in all areas of the hotel

• Low wattage and LED bulbs where possible

• Motion sensors control lighting in basement and storage areas

• Key card access system switches off all power to the guest rooms when not occupied

• Air Conditioning in rooms connected to door sensors which stop operation if opened

• Towel & linen re-use policy in all rooms

• Gas hob used in the kitchen

• Paper, plastic and glass recycling done on site

• Biodegradable Paper straws, cups and containers

• Environmentally friendly chemicals used daily by housekeeping

*Images property of Pod Boutique hotel, Adam Letch, Allan Mccreadie

Lion Sands

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Wildlife lovers. Travellers looking for a once in a lifetime safari experience. Adventurous Families. Honeymooners.

MOMENTS

Organic architecture. Remote bush dinners. Hundreds of lanterns hanging from giant trees. Family of elephant crossing the river in front of your eyes. Falling asleep with The Milky Way as your ceiling.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime! May to September is cooler, but wildlife is easier to spot. 

COST

WHY STAY

Lion Sands is an award-winning safari retreat in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, on the edge of Kruger National Park in South Africa.

The reserve consists of four lodges, built with their surroundings in mind, incorporating steel, wood, thatch, glass, water & sand. Stay in the River Lodge, the only private reserve to have access to the Sabie River, with the rooms connected by wooden walkways, offering unparalleled game viewing. The ultra-lux and modern Ivory Lodge consists of 9 villas, complete with lounge areas and private swimming pools. Choose The Tinga Lodge for retro safari design and wooden viewing decks or the Narina Lodge, located under 100 year old trees and overlooking the Sabie River.

For a once in a lifetime experience, spend the night under the stars in one of the Lion Sands’ Treehouses. Listen to wildlife come alive around you. Take in the views of the iconic African plains at dusk.

WHY WANDER

Discover true South Africa wilderness inside Kruger National Park. Go on a walking safari or a game drive and spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant). Take a trip to the Hippo Pools. Fly over Blyde River Canyon in a helicopter. Discover an environment as old as time.

INDULGE IN

Gourmet cuisine catered to your taste.

GETTING THERE

The reserve is a 2-hour drive from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. 

WILD INITIATIVES

“More Community Foundation is the arm of the business delivering on sustainable community and conservation projects in the areas surrounding our Lodges and Hotels. More Community Foundation’s purpose is to give long-term, meaningful assistance to the communities in which MORE operates and to empower local people.

WHY – We empower people in our local communities.

HOW – By uplifting the standard of living through support and access to basic education and childcare; skills development through community-based development initiatives; access to fresh water and health facilities; and developing overall environmental health.

WHAT – We connect people (individuals and businesses) to communities through professional and sustainable projects and partnerships.”

Please visit www.morecommunityfoundation.org for more detailed information.

*Images property of Lion Sands Game Reserve

Marataba Safari Lodge

SOUTH AFRICA

Personalities

Explorers, Wildlife lovers, Photographers, Adventure Seekers.

Moments

Animal calls at night all around you. The clearest skies. Boat cruise at sundown. Being at one with nature yet luxuriously comfortable.

Best Visiting Months

October to March

Cost

Why Stay

Marataba Safari Lodge, nestled within the Marakele National Park in South Africa against the dramatic backdrop of the Waterberg Mountains, offers a unique blend of luxurious accommodation, an immersive safari experience and profound ecological stewardship.

Choose between 15 beautiful canvas-and-stone suites, each with a private viewing deck, a free-standing stone bath and an outdoor shower. Take advantage of the dramatic scenery of the red sandstone mountains and the river below. The main lodge has a large fireplace, to exchange stories by, a swimming pool to cool off during the day and numerous hammocks in the trees. Marataba offers an opportunity to see animals rarely seen anywhere else, because of its location in the transitional zone between the western and eastern regions of South Africa. 

Why wander

Enjoy the wildlife of the Marakele National Park - from elephant and rhino to over 30 leopards and a growing lion population. Take a Game Drive and learn about the animals's behaviours and habitat. A game walk will take you through the designated routes around the park and see the flora and fauna unique to the region. Take a sunset boat ride on the river that runs through the property and see the animals from water level. 

Indulge in

Outdoor BBQ

Getting There

Fly into Oliver Tambo International Airport and arrange a car to take you to Marataba. 

WILD INITIATIVES

Marataba is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation, actively participating in wildlife protection programs, including the preservation of endangered species and anti-poaching initiatives. The lodge operates with a strong focus on eco-friendly practices, such as using solar energy, minimizing waste, and sourcing local, organic produce for its culinary offerings.

*Images property of MARATABA SAFARI LODGE

Bushmans Kloof

SOUTH AFRICA

PERSONALITIES

Explorers. Wildlife lovers. Photographers. Adventure Seekers. Rock Enthusiasts. 

MOMENTS

Plains of wilderness. Afternoon high tea. Peaceful game drives. Pink and blue sunsets. 

BEST VISITING MONTHS

October to March

COST

WHY STAY

Bushmans Kloof is an award-winning South African lodge, located at the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains. The retreat offers unique luxury accommodation complete with an unparalleled wilderness experience. There are 16 rooms and suites to choose from, as well as a private villa for up to 10 guests - the Koro Lodge. Enjoy open plains, botanical gardens and ancient sandstone formations surrounding the area. Relax in the outdoor gazebo, dine anywhere on the vast property or simply take in this ecological oasis. 

WHY WANDER

Travellers visiting Bushman's Kloof will be here to take in the spectacular surroundings and enjoy the personalized tours. Swim in secret waterfalls or kayak in the river, running through the reserve. Hike across the rock formations or roam the plains, where you may spot the elusive Cape Leopard, living in the nearby mountains. Other animals to look out for are Bat-Eared Fox, African Wildcat, Cape Fox, Caracal (African Lynx), Cape Clawless Otter, and Baboon to name a few.

INDULGE IN

Try the traditional South African braai (barbeque). Enjoy the hotel's own organic garden. Dine anywhere on the property with nothing but the sounds of wildlife around you - deep in the reserve or on the banks of a river. 

GETTING THERE

Take a 3 hour scenic drive from Cape Town. 

WILD INITIATIVES

Bushmans Kloof has protected and saved the largest private Cape Mountain Zebra herd from the brink of extinction. 

*Images property of Bushmans Kloof

Tsala Treetop Lodge

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Lovers and friends looking for an enchanted forest experience. 

MOMENTS

Sundowners in the canopy of the trees. Personal huts-on-stilts. Open decks high above the forest floor. Wandering through giant Outeniqua yellowwood.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime, but October to March is the warmest. 

COST

WHY STAY

Tsala is a luxury treetop lodge in the largest tract of natural forest in South Africa, located along the Garden Route - a 300km stretch of the coast from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River in the Eastern Cape. The retreat is surrounded by ancient indigenous trees, rolling valleys, and velvet hills.

Stay in one of ten Treetop suites or one of six two-bedroom Treetop Villas, built into the canopy, and complete with wraparound verandahs and infinity plunge pools. Enjoy glass walls with views to the surrounding forest, free-standing tubs, and sun loungers. The design echoes natural fabrics, earthy colours, and raw textures, resembling stone and ebony. 

Tsala works hard to preserve the animals and the environment  within the property as well as support the local community.

WHY WANDER

Wander the property and learn about its many species of trees. Hike to the scenic Robberg Peninsula or through the Garden of Eden Forest. Go mountain biking along the Garden Route. Snorkel with African fur seals or go whale watching. Visit the free flight bird sanctuary or the world’s first free multi-specie primate sanctuary. Go Paddle Boarding through the peaceful Keurbooms River. Sail though the majestic Knysna Heads cliffs. Try surfing at the Plettenberg Bay. Go bungy jumping at Bloukrans - the World’s Highest Commercial Bungy Jump at 216m. Go cage dive diving with Great White Sharks - a truly once in a lifetime experience.

INDULGE IN

Visit Tsala's wine cellar for some interesting South African discoveries.

GETTING THERE

Fly into Cape Town and rent a car for a beautiful journey. 

*Images property of Tsala Treetop Lodge

Angala Boutique Hotel

SOUTH AFRICA

The Personalities

Winos, Honeymooners, Photographers, Writers, Soul-Searchers.

MOMENTS

Wandering through ancient vineyards. Michelin-star food beautifully paired with local wines. Reawakening your senses.

Best Visiting Months

October to March

Cost

Why stay

Angala Boutique Hotel, situated in the picturesque Cape Winelands of South Africa, offers an oasis of tranquility and luxury combined with a strong commitment to sustainability. Nestled in the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountains, the retreat provides guests with a serene environment characterized by lush gardens, pristine pools, and breathtaking views.

Choose between a suite or a cottage, with views to the mountains or the valley. Look out onto a secluded garden or the pond from your balcony or a private veranda. Wellness and relaxation are central to the Angala experience, with facilities such as a natural pool (where the ecosystem mimics the streams, rivers and ponds), infrared sauna, and yoga sessions designed to promote well-being.

Why wander

Make Angala your starting point for exploring the Cape winelands or Cape Town. Hop on a Wine Tram and discover Franschhoek Wine Route among other South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates. Take a day trip to Cape Town's Table Mountain, the city's most famous icon, visible from 200km out at sea. Hike or take a cable car to the top and enjoy spectacular views of the city on the water. For a wild life lover, South Africa is the perfect destination. Take a whale watching tour, and don't be surprised when you encounter dolphins, seals and penguins along the way. If you are looking for extreme adrenaline, shark cage diving at Gansbaai is the ultimate experience.

Indulge in

Fresh gourmet food. Breakfast outside with fresh baked pastries. South African wine. 

Getting There

Fly into Cape Town and reach Angala by car or a pickup service.

WILD INITIATIVES

The hotel sources local and organic ingredients for its culinary offerings, ensuring a farm-to-table dining experience that supports regional farmers and reduces food miles.

*Photos property of ANGALA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Kagga Kamma NATURE RESERVE

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Hikers, Photographers, Rock Enthusiasts, Wildlife lovers.  

MOMENTS

Watching the stars. Modern day caves. Sundowner drives. Adventure trails and memories.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

The warm months are between September and March.

COST

WHY STAY

Kagga Kamma, located in the heart of the Cederberg Mountains in South Africa, is a unique nature reserve renowned for its striking landscapes. This remote retreat offers an array of distinctive accommodations, from luxurious cave suites carved into sandstone formations to charming thatched huts that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.

The accommodation choices are the reason that you are here. Choose the Outcrop Open Air Room to sleep under the stars, while listening to the sounds of the night on a remote rocky outcrop with a bedside fire. Another unique option are the Bushman Lodges. Choose one of five thatched rondavels or one of ten cave suites, built into the rock formations. Explore the formations closely from your private terrace. During the hot summer months, cool off in the swimming pool, seamlessly blending in between large rocks.

WHY WANDER

There is more than enough to keep the adventurous occupied at Kagga Kamma. Take a scenic ride around the area on a mountain bike or a 4x4. Enjoy the unique game viewing and see Cederberg's famous landscapes. History lovers will enjoy Ancient rock art sites nearby. Visit the Mini Observatory at the end of the day to see billions of stars and make a wish to come back.

INDULGE IN

Try the Cape Malay Lamb Curry or the Braised Lamb Shank. The Austrian Chocolate Cake is also a favourite.

GETTING THERE

Fly into Cape Town and arrange a car rental to enjoy the self-drive through the Cape Winelands and into the Cederberg.

WILD INITIATIVES

Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve strives towards a better, cleaner future; as such the Lodge continually assesses ways in which to become more environmentally friendly. During the year 2013, Kagga Kamma was awarded the RCI Green Award at the RCI OSCAS for installing a Solar Photovoltaic Hybrid Energy System. This hybrid energy system provides around-the-clock environmentally-friendly power to the entire Lodge which reduces hazardous emissions, and therefore, the Lodge’s carbon footprint. Furthermore, Kagga Kamma’s water is supplied from an onsite borehole water source. The decision was also reached in 2019 to switch from plastic water bottles for in-room use to glass bottles, and the onsite facilities only make use of biodegradable straws.

Kagga Kamma provides a combination of experiences that focus on the unique natural environment and rich cultural history that are at the heart of the Kagga Kamma story. The aim is to provide opportunities for guests to experience the natural treasures and fascinating fauna and flora, which make Kagga Kamma so special, first-hand. The protected Nature Reserve is home to a number of endemic and endangered species, such as the Spectacled Dormouse and Bontebok, and the Lodge is dedicated to maintaining a balanced ecosystem to preserve these species’ habitats. As a protected heritage site, the Lodge is aiming to protect the San and Khoi rock art which are scattered across the property and our popular Rock Art Tour shares the incredible history of these cultures. Our mission is ongoing in making Kagga Kamma an established eco-Lodge and green holiday destination.

*Images property of KAGGA KAMMA NATURE RESERVE