Friday, September 27, 2013

Get outdoors in JOZI!

As we are based in Gauteng, we can not help but be passionate about our City!

Many of us have lived in Gauteng for most our life but get so wrapped up with this " city" life we often don't get time to appreciate the fun, adventure and outdoor attractions we have surrounding us. So you're asking yourself, what am I on about? Well there is so much activity available, all on our doorstep ...adding that element of fun and excitement while exploring our "City of Gold" and surrounding countryside. Having said that we would like to showcase some of our highlighted outdoor living activities surrounding us that we highly recommend for a day out in the fresh air.


Most definitely one of our best sellers at the moment, is taking on the handlebars of a 4 wheeler! Yes Quad biking.. you do not need previous experience as all our tours are guided with briefings before setting out as safety is of utmost importance! Whether it's nature outrides through scenic terrain of the Hartebeespoort Dam Area or the dusty streets of Soweto, let us send you out on this fun day outing, with just a touch of adrenalin and a bit of dirt!

If you prefer to experience more of a birds eye view of the happenings below an "airborne" adventure may be for you! From Hot Air Ballooning over the picturesque Magalies Mountains to spotting plains game in below reserves, you can be assured of an exhilarating adventure below the blue skies!
Another ever growing aerial sport is ziplining and canopy tours, one of the fastest growing eco-adventures with thousands of satisfied thrill-seekers having already caught the bug. Try this unforgettable adventure as you slide from one platform to the next along a series of steel cables set amongst magnificent natural surroundings!

If you prefer a little more of a 'calming' outing, we can surely assist with sensational "safari" adventure including a guided game drive in open safari vehicles, an elephant interaction including a "touch and feed " programme and a delicious lunch surrounded by picturesque surrounds, all within an hours drive from Gauteng.

Come and relax amidst the quiet and tranquil surroundings of a working farm and relish the peace of this natural bush setting which offers panoramic views of the Magaliesburg Mountains.  Jump into the saddle of a well trained and safely equipped South African Boerperd horse for a guided horse trail  along the banks of the Magalies and Skeerpoort rivers and farmlands followed by a delicious picnic with your friends or family amongst the charming countryside surrounds!

We know we have got you thinking, so gather your friends and families and go explore outdoors with African Chapter Tours!



Monday, August 19, 2013

Planning your company conference or end of year function?

With us swiftly entering the last 5 months of 2013, it's the time of year leading up to lot's of buzz and movement in the event side of both corporate and leisure group conferencing and of year end celebrations and rewards.

To those who are left with the responsibility of organizing such events, it can be stressful and daunting... but no panic please ... there are many professionals who can guide you and take care of the finer details to ensure a successful event!

African Chapter Tours have put together a basic outline for pre-planning and choosing a great venue to get the best results for your conferences and end of year outing and functions. 

  • Have all the applicable information at hand. The more information you can provide the agent or supplier the more efficient assistance and quotation you will receive. That includes number of delegates, room types ie single/sharing, programme requirements, meals and additional activities and of course budget!
  • Timing is a big factor, this effects your costs. Rates are often seasonal or gaged on midweek and weekend rates. Book in advance this will give you better choice and options. Last minute bookings can result if higher prices and limited options.
  • If it is the first time using a venue, get recommendations or referrals or arrange a site visit to ensure your expectations are met and your requirements are fulfilled.
  • Also ensure once you booked you are aware of all the terms and inclusion, exclusion, deposits and full payment policies and cancellation terms.
  • Should you require Wi-Fi ensure the venue can provide and if costs apply. Most venues located in the City Hubs offer such value adds however your more remote venues may offer limited services.
  • Also check cell phone coverage with the venue and advise your delegates as this can cause much havoc if you aren't aware there is limited or no cell phone coverage.
  • If  you will require special meals, check first if the venue can assist, as often their will be a surcharge especially for Kosher and Halaal meals and ensure you budget for it.
  • If your company has a environmental mission statement that includes green practices then limit your search of venues by approaching similar like minded venues that have the same values and goals when following a responsible & green tourism protocol. 
  • If you are planning a few events during the year or over specific period then provide this information to ensure the best offer can be negotiated based on the repeat business and book dates all in advance to secure a good deal! 
If you are looking for some different day activities for team building our corporate day outings , African Chapter Tours highlights some of our bestsellers.
 
Soweto Quadbike Adventure from R920 per person
Harties Adventure Quad Trail Outing from R575 pp
Abseiling Adventure Fun - Hartebeespoort Dam Area from R375pp
Hartbeespoort in a Day from R900 pp
Adrenalin Water Adventure Outing near Lanseria from R525 pp
Soweto Township Teambuilding from R360 pp

Our further recommendation for our overnight corporate country/safari conferencing options:
Mpumalanga Corporate Bush Bash from R1250 per adult
Klaserie Safari Camp Exclusive for 8 people - Greater Kruger from R13 500 per night
Safari Lodges in Gauteng
Hazyview Country Venue

We would be delighted to assist you with planning your end of year activities and functions but please start rolling out the plans now!!

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Highlighting the beautiful Klaserie Private Game Reserve

It often causes a bit of confusion around the "Greater Kruger National Park"...which is a joint venture between the Kruger National Park and Associated Private Nature Reserves. Together they have an area of more than 20.000.000 Ha (or more than 20.000 km²), under their joint conservation. One of these associated game reserves is Klaserie Private Game Reserve situated in the Limpopo Province, past Hoedspruit.

The Klaserie Private nature Reserve (KPNR) is one of the largest privately owned nature reserves in South Africa covering some 60 000 hectares and is part of the greater Kruger National Park. It is an entirely non-government organization involved in the full spectrum of Nature Conservation.
The KPNR was established in 1969 and was officially proclaimed a nature reserve in 1972.

In search for factual information I discovered there are various commercial operations within the Klaserie Reserve ranging from rustic bush camps and walking trails to luxury game lodges. It is the Reserve's policy to keep the commercial and thus human impact to a minimum as it is our mission to make the KPNR as near a pristine environment as possible.


 


African Chapter Tours has recently added Ndzuti Safari Camp to its Portfolio which offers a truly magnificent safari experience at a very affordable cost. The Safari camp has only 4 en suite air conditioned rooms offering a total of 8 people an exclusive yet traditional safari experience coupled with true south African hospitality.  To compliment your relaxing bush safari there is a well established garden housing a boma, swimming pool and lookout hide facing onto a water hole. 

Interestingly ...The “Big Five” was initially a term that referred to the five most dangerous animals to hunt and it is a shame that many visitors to the African Bush sometimes place the success of their safari in the sighting of just five animal species. The Big Five are without doubt exciting animals to see but the African Bush is diverse and varied with countless other animals and birds that will enhance any visitor’s safari. This concession of 3500 odd hectares falls along both sides of the Klaserie River and this attracts herds of elephant as well as buffalo and of course the big cats that hunt them!

An alternative unique experience in the Klaserie Private Game Reserve is affording guests the ability to see the wonders of the savannah close-up on a Foot walking adventure safaris, allowing for the  most intimate experience with the wildlife, flora and fauna of the landscape.  Shangaan Trackers will keep guests intrigued with their ability to find animals utilising only their senses and explain the traditional and medicinal uses of plants you will come across during your authentic african journey. The lodge itself is a traditional rustic Bush Camp comprising of thatched rondavels, situated amongst beautiful bush trees and wide open spaces. Hot water is provided through simplistic “donkey boiler” system, offering piping hot waters with light provided after dark by “hurricane lamps”. All adding to the atmosphere and adventure if you up to it!



For more information contact us for your tailormade package to the Klaserie Private Game Reserve to suit your interests and requirements. Rates are very affordable and under the R2000 p/p category which is great value for money for a quality Bush and Safari Experience.

Should you have been lucky enough to experience any of the above establishments or have had the opportunity to visit the Klaserie Private Game Reserve. We would love for you to share your experiences or input!

Monday, June 24, 2013

Our Mozambique Getaway recommendations

Whether you are choosing a family holiday beach break, an adventure beach break, a romantic retreat or sporting interests such as diving or big game fishing... you will find all of this in our beautiful neighbouring country MOZAMBIQUE.

A Mozambique holiday is the perfect excuse to kick off your shoes, take off your watch and gear down to the slow pace of island life! Swim, snorkel, laze in the sunshine or set sail on a sunset dhow cruise with it's white sandy beaches, colourful coral reefs, blue oceans and hot and humid temperatures...an African island getaway awaits you!


The biggest challenge when travelling to Mozambique from SA is the logistics. Travelling can be intimidating as roads conditions are not always favourable and speed limits must be respected.
However there are many favourable self drive destinations that are popular, however a 2 x 4 and in some cases 4 x 4 is recommended, check before you secure your bookings. There are options for fly- in packages, however this can work out quite costly! Also keep in mind important travel information when planning your trip such as passports, border formalities, healthy advisories and currency!

This time of year is an awesome time to enjoy warmer weather during the winter months, rates are favourable as the season is quieter , therefore more enjoyable if you are looking for peace and quiet. African Chapter bring you the following recommendations, highlighting our Mozambique Getaway packages, for short beach breaks to get  your through the chill of winter!


Ponta De Oura - Situated in the extreme south of the pristine Mozambique coastline, alongside Ponta Malongane (16km from the South African border),  enjoy private and exclusive self-catering luxury, tented camp offering comfort, privacy and tranquillity to the discerning nature lover and adventurer!Ideal for an adventure & beach getaway that won't exhaust your bank account!

Inhaca Island - A truly authentic Mozambique experience with all the necessary luxury to be comfortable and pampered! Located on Inhaca Island, at the entrance of Maputo Bay in the south of Mozambique. The hotel is located on the beach, amidst colonies of coconut trees and lush tropical vegetation with beautiful gardens. This is a great couple's getaway or even for a family who enjoy their luxuries but want to experience Mozambique culture and hospitality at an affordable price.

Maputo Bay - This Beach Lodge is located at the centre of this grand battle, the channel between Inhaca Island and the dunes of the Santa Maria Peninsula. Overlooking endless white beaches, pristine and untouched dune forests and estuaries bursting with life and eternally wide open ocean! Great for honeymoons and couple getaways who enjoy the outdoors and appreciate nature.

Inhambane  - Further north 485km from Maputo, The lodge is situated on stilts over the crystal clear waters of the warm Indian Ocean, an eco-paradise and home to a flock of flamingo`s, tropical fish and the very rare dugong. Sunsets are definetly one of the highlights of your time spent in this beautiful part of the world. The luxury water chalets are spacious and well appointed with individual balcony, wide opening sliding doors and air-conditioning. An Ideal romantic destination for couples. Flights are available from Johannesburg to make the travelling distance more pleasurable!
 

Another lodge near Inhambane and close to Zavora, but also catering for families and the nature lover is this Eco Lodge, perched on top of the secondary dunes that overlook the ocean, allowing for stunning views including that of the coastal forests which is also visible from the Restaurant & Bar and accommodation chalets. Some of the highlights you can expect are exhilarating walks along the pristine beach, snorkeling along the rock reef or discover the natural sea life beneath! From June to October, The Mozambican channels host`s the humpback whales migration journey.


We would love you to share any further Mozambique accommodation recommendations you may have in Mozambique that you may have experienced lately, especially family friendly establishments, we are always looking to extend our portfolio with great affordable destinations in Mozambique.

We look forward to hearing from you!




 

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Winter spells out a cup of hot cocoa and cosy comfortable getaways!

As winter creeps in we tend to look for more comfort in our foods, change the way we spend our lazy days (where ever there is heat!) and where we travel to for our enjoyment. Apart from all the fantastic suggestions I have for you, of where to go and what to do and the fantastic special winter warming travel offers African Chapter can offer you during these colder months, I have even more good news to share with you!

Cocoa is really good for you and not just a tasty treat. So next time you sip on a cup of hot cocoa you can leave the guilt behind as it has been said there are health benefits when consuming cocoa! Considered as a strong weapon to keeping healthy by the Aztecs, new research confirms that cocoa is key to the path of good health.
 




Read on to find some of the health benefits of cocoa:

  • One of the most important benefits of cocoa is the large number of antioxidants it contains. It has twice the number of antioxidants of red wine. Antioxidants help to strengthen your immune system, increase energy levels and help you look and feel younger.
  • Cocoa is full of flavonoids which increases the blood flow to the breain. Flavonoids increase the blood flow to the brain. Increased blood flow to the brain generally means a better disposition. They also help guard against depression and dementia :)
  • Decreases the possibility of clots in your bloodstream. Drinking hot cocoa will actually reduce the risk of having heart problems. First of all platelets will have a much harder time in grouping together due to this compound. When platelets group together it can lead to strokes or heart attacks.
  • Cocoa can also lower your blood pressure and improve your blood flow. This helps to guard against heart disease and stroke and makes it easier for you to lose weight.
  • great source of magnesium, which is a very important in the proper formation of teeth and bones, in regulating bowel functions, in relaxation of blood vessels and regulation of blood sugar levels.
  • Lower your cholesterol.  Lastly but not least the fact that drinking this delicious beverage in the morning will help reduce your "bad" cholesterol levels and increase the levels of “good” cholesterol. 
So whip up a cup of hot cocoa and reap these rewards this winter, together with our awesome autumn and winter value added packages! Our popular travel package choices are:
 
  • Pilanesberg alternative - Bush & Game Weekend Getaway from R2500 pp 2 nights
  • Kruger Getaway from R1430 pp - 2 nights plus 1 free included
  • Winter Wonder Mpumalanga stay 3 pay 2 nights from R1850 pp
  • South Coast Sensational 2nt Beach Break from R750 per adult, child from R350
  • Gauteng Romantic Overnight from R805 pp
  • Cape Town Weekend Rendevouz - Cape Town from R1260 per person 2 night stay
  • Gauteng Country Lodge Pampering from R1230 pp
  •  

    Friday, April 12, 2013

    Highlighting Mpumalanga...the place where the sun rises

    I have awesome childhood memories of Mpumalanga ... or in those days it was known as Eastern Transvaal .. it was always our Winter holiday destination! It is still is an awesome spot to visit in the cooler months however always seems that much warmer than the highveld during these months!

    I decided to highlight the Mpumalanga province in the next coming months as it always seems such a great time to visit, no matter what your motives are for a weekend or even week breakaway ...there really is soooo much on offer and our packages will cater for all interest or lack there of!!
    If glorius scenery and magnificent landscapes is on your list of places to visit then you will not be disappointed with a drive through the Panorama Route visiting well know tourist attractions such as God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and Three Sisters and further north the Blyde River Canyon, the third largest in the world.

    Hazyview has also become a trending hub in Mpumalanga with much accommodation options to choose from and an abundance of adventure activities with many choices of venues to enjoy long leisurely lunches! Some of African Chapter Tours top selling attractions include Elephant Sundowner Interactions, Tree Top canopy tours , eco quad bike trails and safari/bush activities.
    You also have our most precious and privilleged to have Game Parks in Mpumalanga, which is no doubt a popular option in the winter months as the dryer season means less density in the bushveld creating a more suitable terrain for game viewing at much more affordable rates than the summer high season!

    For the Gauteng crowd who are always in need to escape from this crazy highly strung city... travelling options from 3 to 5 hours drive gets you in reach of many of these very attractive towns or Game Parks.

    Whether its family time at affordable options ,an adrenalin spike or even a little romantic rendevouz ...or even sightseeing and game experiences for the visitor, our travel packages offer great value for this time of the year and plenty once off special offers, so do have a browse at GREAT DEALS in Mpumalanga for this winter wonder destination!

    So head for the sunrise and enjoy a visit in Mpumalanga during the coming months!

    Wednesday, March 13, 2013

    Why you shouldn't feed baboons?

    I was reading up on an article about our CHACMA BABOON in South Africa, often seen when touring the countryside, particularly in the Cape.You see the signs along side roads asking us
    " Please do not feed the baboons" this is for a reason as you might of gathered but why is this?
    • You may think it's fun and that you are helping them survive, but they then learn to associate food with humans.
    • They become demanding, grabbing food, jumping onto cars, and can cause injury.
    • Troops start frequenting roadsides in the hope of being fed, leading to baboon injuries and death by vehicles.
    However feeding a baboon is actually illegal and this law is there to protect us. Generally baboons that are fed by humans start to become aggressive and in the end are shot.

    The Chacma baboon is also known as the Cape baboon, is from the Old World Monkey family. The Chacma baboon is amongst the largest and heaviest baboon species and the largest of the monkey family. Baboons can grow up to 120cm tall and their tails are around 2 feet long. Males can have large canine teeth as long as 2 inches.They are dark brown to grey in colour and have a long, downward sloping face with close-set eyes under a heavy brow. Baboons walk on all four feet with their tails held in a crooked arch over their back.

    Baboons in the Western Cape forage on over 100 different species of fynbos . Human food is full of calories and easily digestible relative to fynbos making it very attractive to baboons. However humans have encroached on natural areas as towns expand and with urban sprawl comes animal conflict as the latter are displaced and make for uneasy neighbours.

    Baboon troops that live close to urban areas have fewer adult males than undisturbed troops. The lack of natural predators suggests that the males are being killed as a result of direct conflict with humans. Lone dispersing males are often seen as "rogues" and are treated as a threat to humans. It is important to realise that lone males reflect the natural movement of the males between troops which is nature's way of preventing inbreeding, as males do not mate with their mothers, sisters or aunts.
    Killing males within troops has much wider implications for it opens the door for new males to immigrate into the troop. When this happens, the new male typically kills the previous male's offspring. One study of an urban troop reported that 53% of all infants born, died within their first year. It was suspected that most of these deaths were due to infanticide. The males engage in this shocking behaviour because without the cost of nursing an infant, females quickly come into oestrus and he is thus able to mate with her sooner than had she raised her infant.

    Baboons are highly intelligent, adaptable wild animals. They learn quickly and many residents feel that they are under siege when troops invade their living space. Baboons have learnt to associate humans with food. Baboons know that human-derived food means that they do not have to spend hours foraging to obtain the nutrition they need. Therefore, the underlying principle is to make sure that what ever you do, you prevent baboons from having easy access to human-derived food.
    Should you live in area where baboons frequant your living space then addressing a baboon problem on your property by identify what is attracting the baboons. These can be food, water or garbage, or a combination. Take action to remove the source, or at least make it a lot harder for the baboon to get to what is attracting them in the first place. Then look at ways of deterring baboons from your property.

    Please read the following important points when travelling in SA and what to do when you encounter baboons and your safety in this regard:

    The Do Nots:
     1.Open car windows or doors or get out your car
     2.Feed baboons
     3.Try to grab back or hold onto your bag if a baboon steals it
     4.Throw food packaging out your car. Throw it in baboon proof bins provided.
     5.Scream when you see a baboon or try to chase it
     6.Get between a mother baboon and their baby
     7.Leave small children without attention or let them get close to the baboons
     8.Take pets near the baboons
     9.Tease the baboon by holding food out of reach to it
     10.Try to touch the baboon. This reduces their natural fear of humans and you may get bitten
     11.Eat in front of the baboons or show them that you have food with you or in the car

    The Do's .
     1.Lock car doors if you get out of the vehicle at a view site where baboons may be present
     2.Stay in the car if baboons are near, and lock the car door
     3.Hide food stored in the car if you leave the car
     4.Take your camera out of its bag so that the baboon sees it as a camera and not as a bag that may hold food

    Touching baboons is prohibited and can cause human injury if the male baboons interpret your behaviour as potentially causing harm to the troop. Baboons can potentially transfer human-carried diseases to baboons and vice versa.

    What to do when a baboon is in your home or holiday accommodation.
    1. Firstly remain calm, and do not block their exit route. Baboons can read human body language and if you appear threatening, they will be nervous and unpredictable. Do not stare at them or look them directly in the eyes as this will be interpreted as aggressive behaviour and they make react similarly.
    2. Make sure that they have an obvious escape route – open windows and doors.
    3. Act with confidence (be the alpha male) and show them you are serious about getting them out your space
    4. Do not try to get food back from a baboon, it will fight you to retain the food
    5. Work towards getting the baboon towards the shortest escape route.
    6. Encourage the baboon towards the escape route with a water spray bottle.
    Lets not work against these animals. They are entitled to their living space as much as we think we are, it is a problem we can not change and therefore have to deal with such sitautions in the best repsonsible manner possible.

    Should you be visiting Plettenberg Bay in the Garden route, do make a stop in at the Tenikwa Rehab Centre, they offer one hour guided tours you are guaranteed to see the charismatic Cheetah, Leopard and enjoy a cat and mouse game with South Africa ’s seldom seen Lesser indigenous cats, such as the African Wild Cat, Servals and Caracal. Experience the inquisitiveness of the busy Meerkats, watch the Blue Cranes dance and take pleasure in getting to know the mischievous Marabou Storks. Also on offer is a really unique exxperience to spend some quality time with an endangered creature, as you "Walk with the Cheetahs".