Special September

We are well into this truely Special September this month,with our wonderful warm temperatures and the highlighted celebrations of Tourism and Heritage Month.

I am completely blown away by all the effort that has gone into this theme with the festivities happening throughout the country. Tourism is of course the latest buzz word as the Fifa World Cup 2010 gets closer but what is really special is the celebrations and events around our Heritage, being the 24 September marked as Heritage Day.

South Africa's Heritage encompasses our history, values, norms and cultures. In a way who we are and we choose to be as a nation is very much a product of our collective heritage.

Check out 10 ways in which you can celebrate our Heritage this month.

The festivities are endless this month herewith a few "things to do" in the coming days in true patriotic spirit!

Johannesburg - Special Travel offers; Joburg Shopping Festival, Art's Alive at various venues in the City, Soweto Festival, Taste of Joburg, Magaliesberg Classic Country Festival and Annual Food and Wine Festival Dinokeng.

Have you visited Liliesleaf? The Authenticity of the site lends itself to an insightful and interactive snapshots of South Africa's history and acknowledges our remarkable heritage as well as the progress we have made since 1963. Tours of the historical site take approximately one and half hours and are ideal for family weekend outings.

Other Festival around the country :-

CAPE - Hermanus Whale Festival; Plett Festival - love Plett, love Life!; Paarl Cultivaria Festival; Cape Philharmonic Orchestra 's Oratorio Festival 2009; 31st Annual Loerie Awards; The Pan African Space Station .

KWAZULU NATAL - Rock Legends, Hilton Arts Festival, Heritage Arts Festival at the Gateway Centre.

MPUMALANGA - Heritage Day Cultural Extravaganza - Belfast.

Happy Heritage Day to you all... and don't forget in true south african tradition you can also just light up the fire and have a braai on the 24 September this public holiday!

Can you experience a Game & Bush lodge within 1 hour from Gauteng?

It is difficult to imagine that in only one hour travelling distance from your city life you are able to enjoy the bushveld and a game reserve experience over a weekend.... African Chapter Tours not only brings you this experience but at a special offer with great value adds . Making it really worth your while to GET OUT OF THE CITY in the next coming months of August and September, as the weather starts to warm up (hopefully!).

For our Pretoria Residents this lodge is actually only a 45 minute drive,before you reach the luxury of a 4 star lodge situated in the Rust De Winter Bushveld. Relax and unwind while you enjoy the facilities and surrounding serenity. The Lodge offers an early evening/nature drive on the Genious Loci Game Ranch, hosting some of South Africa's rare species like the Black Impala, Buffalo, Sable and White Rhino. To complete your stay is a bush spa with glorious views and treatments that will help ease the tentions! Next door to the property is Mystic Monkeys and Feathers Wildlife Park and has South Africa's largest collection of different species of primates and exotic birds and home to some interesting animal species such as Lemurs and Sloths.
Explore the park's tranquility,tidiness and vastness under guidance of a guide,w ho will give your information about the animals behaviour, habitat and breeding. VIEW THIS SPECIAL 1 NIGHT PACKAGE.

For our Johannesburg Residents, this 4 star Game Lodge is just under and hours drive en route to Magaliesberg. It is also became the first BIG 5 Game Reserve in Gauteng,when they introduced lion to the area, these animals are however kept in an enclosed part of the reserve. The Lodge is luxurious and follows an historical theme with antique decor throughout the lodge, also boasting the largest Ox -Wagon collection in Southern Africa. The natural African Bushveld comprises of a pristine malaria free wilderness area of over 3000 hectares with an opportunity to view an abundance of flora, fauna, birdlife and wildlife. One of the major attractions at this lodge is the Elephant Programme (EFAF) on the property which allows the guests an opportunity to experience an elephant interaction and educational programme during your stay. VIEW OUR SPECIAL 2 NIGHT PACKAGE.

So pack your safari colours and BOOK NOW. For any further request or tailormade getaways let our team experts assist you!

MORE SPECIALS
TENTED SAFARI LODGE SUPER SPECIAL! only R1390 pps for 2 nights, fully inclusive
KRUGER PARK TENTED SAFARI SPECIAL! only R800 pp per night with Dinner and breakfast WILDERNESS LONG WEEKEND SPECIAL! only R3000 pps fully inclusive, a self catering option also available.
BUSH SPA FANTASY OVERNIGHT! only R1450 pp sharing including meals,accommodation and ALL Treatments.

Stargazing in Gauteng

I recently had the opportunity of enjoying an evening of stargazing, another great winter activity, if you dont mind braving the cold at the moment! But you are well rewarded with a delicious three course meal and if you so wish, a warm comfortable overnight stay in a luxury boutique hotel to compliment the evening.
The Stargazing events are themed (and occur once a month),with this particular evening celebrating the 40th anniversary of Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong's July 1969 moon landing.

Resident astronomer Vincent Nettman entertained and informed us about the wonders of the galaxy. Unfortunately the overcast weather did not allow us the opportunity gazing at the sky through the telescopes as this would of enabled us to view the moon's surface on which Armstrong historically declared that he had taken "one small step for man, on giant leap for mankind".

Your overnight stay is at the 4 star Maropeng Hotel situated in the Cradle of Humankind, next to the Maropeng Museum. It is between 30 minutes to an hours drive, depending on where you are travelling from in Gauteng, so makes a perfect weekend overnight stay or evening out for something a little different, family outing or a special occassion.

You can combine this overnight stay with day activities offered in The Cradle. For those of you who have not yet heard of this whole new world of discovery out there... The Cradle is a truely fascinating area and is also a world heritage site. The museum is a world class exhibition, focusing on the development of humans and our ancestors over the past few million years. The historical heritage is most intriguing and a topic to be enjoyed by all. The experience is interactive, educational with an element of excitement!
A short drive away is the Sterkfontein Caves adjacent to the Rhino and Lion Park. The tours at Sterkfontein caves start above ground and then take visitors deep into the caves This site has been credited with many of the famous discoveries including "Mrs Ples" and "Little Foot".

Please view our information and packages on Astronomy Evenings or out and about in the Cradle, for further information or ideas for your next Sensational Winter Escape!

African Chapter Tours invites you to join us at the Planetarium at Wits University on Thursday the 16th July at 18h45 - 22h45 . The evening takes a look at our southern skies at a beginners level as we star hop around the southern constellations. Adults R26,50 and Children R17. All Welcome. RSVP to info@africanchapter.co.za or for more information.

Attractions in the North West

North West has it's own enchantment, beautiful sunsets, waving fields of sunflowers the further north you go and a horizon that just keeps on going! The more popular area we know is that of the Bojanala-Eastern Region which is situated close to Gauteng.

If you like adventure, this is your kind of region. Water activities, mountain sports, hang-gliding, parasailing, abseiling, hiking trails, angling, yachting, ballooning, cable way and plenty of leisure trips.

A glance at some of the areas of attraction you must have on your list of places to visit:

• Internationally-renowned Lost City Sun City complex with two designer golf courses, 6000-seat Superbowl, the largest casino and gaming complex in the country.
• Pilansberg Game Reserve, only 2 hours from Gauteng you will find this malaria free big 5 game reserve. Many different accommodation options available to self catering chalets and tents, camping as well as inclusive yet affordable game lodges such as Kwa Maritane and Bakabung – booking is essential!
• Cradle of Humankind, set around the Rustenburg, Magaliesberg and Hartbeespoort regions, The area abounds with relics from the Stone Age and early middle and late Iron Age. There are day tours and overnight packages available in this area, incorporating entrance fees to the various attractions.
  The northwest of the region borders on the Madikwe Game Reserve, a haven to visitors who want to live the African experience and indulge in a true African safari at a private game lodge.
• Borakalalo Game Reserve is situated 60 km north of Brits. It consists of 13 000 ha of woodland and open bushveld - in a remote and peaceful area of unusual beauty and diversity set in Kalahari veld and woodland country, along the banks of the Moretele River and the 800 ha Klipvoor Dam. visitors can walk freely along prescribed trails to enjoy the eco-diversity of this very special park. An abundance of wildlife and more than 350 bird species can be viewed. The reserve offers excellent camping facilities or self-catering accommodation in two tented camps.
  
  For the adventurer check out the following activities in this region: (click on the activity for more information)

• The Elephant Sanctuary
• Bush Baby Monkey Sanctuary
• Elephant back safari rides in the Pilansberg
• Hot Air Ballooning in Pilansberg,Magaliesberg and The Cradle.
• Microlighting in the Magaliesberg
• Quad biking/trails
• Tree Canopy Tours
• Ancestors Speciality Day tours - (exclusive!!!)
• Maropeng
• Sterkfontein Caves
• De Wild Cheetah Farm
• Lesedi Cultural Village

The winter months are the ideal time of the year to visit this area as the climate is sunny and definetly a few degrees warmer than Gauteng however the evenings can be crisp! The winter months are also great for the wildlife and nature lover as game viewing is at its best as the bushveld dries up and the animals are easier spotted.

So don’t delay we have 2 months left, get your bit of sunshine and book early to avoid disappointments!

1YEAR Countdown 11 June 2009 to FIFA World cup 2010

Exciting times... officially one year to go till South Africa showcases our country and capabilities for the FIFA World Cup 2010. Celebrations peak today as the nation comes together and sings out the national anthem at 16h00 - 11 June. (tune in to your favourite radio station at 15h55 to catch this memorable moment)

There is much hype and buzz today but as well as in the past few months, but so there should be with much activity from upgrades to our infrastructure particularly transport. I am sure we have all encountered the fustrations over the past few months with the current inconveniences but it will all be a well rewarded experience by 2010, so lets stay focused and not lose the long term goal we all are looking at reaping the benefits from and being part of the fantastic event. With a regular affordable weekends away I'm sure we an keep the edge off from the day to day stresses and fustrations, with the many fantastic special offers we have on offer.

I came across the mascot for FIFA 2010 - the mascot with attitude - Zakumi (as seen above) . Read more on the Fifa website. Let us know what you think of him? I would say he is quite well suited for the job! The name ‘Zakumi' is a combination of of ‘ZA' standing for South Africa and ‘kumi', which translates into ‘10' in various languages across Africa.

I was to bring you more on Winter destinations for your weekends and short breaks today but couldnt resist being part of the excitment of FIFA 2010 today, so please do check out this space next week for more hidden gems in the North West Province where game reserves, adventure and outdoor will be on top of the agenda. Should you need some ideas to plan an inexpensive break in the coming weeks let my team steer you in the right direction we have some great ideas up our sleeves!

A Happy day to you all!

Winter Weekend Destinations

With the cold weather creeping in, it reminds me of cosy destinations where blazing fireplaces and good fattening homestyle food can be consumed together with lots of red wine to keep the toes warm!

So with that thought, I share some interesting places for weekend retreats , adventure or family getaways with you.
This week I touch on the Freestate and what is on offer! It is approximately a 3 hours drive from Johannesburg,making it an ideal 2 night stay.

Attractions include:

• Clarens - an artists haven and tranquil village ambience combined with scenic views. The town is known for its many Art and Craft Shops which offer the visitor a wide range of curious and original artwork.The mountains around Clarens can be expolred on quad bikes etc. A visit to a nearby cave with a huge sandstone overhang, where exciting dinosaur fossils have been discovered.
• Golden Gate National Park - the park offers many walking trails, a guided walk to Cathedral Cave. Also on offer within the park is the Basotho Cultural Village.
• Ficksburg - The largest cherry producing area in South Africa, visitors can enjoy a farm tour or take a tractor ride through the cherry orchards and an opportunity to buy some famous cherry liquer! The town also boasts a collection of picturesque sandstone buildings,many have been declared national monuments.

Activities in the areas include flyfishing, hiking, horseriding.There are many B&B, guest lodges and sef catering units dotted around these areas at affordable rates.

For your tailormade package and interests please contact our team and we will suggest an appropriate itinerary together with accommodation and activities to fit your budget.

Currently we have a Clarens Golf Package and a Clarens Leisure Lodge Package - so go check it out, should this area be what you are looking for!

Sporting Events in SA

If you are a sports enthusiast then you will be in your element the next couple of months!
From Cricket to Superbikes onto Rugby and Soccer your days on the couch will sure to increase this winter!
If you have been pondering on thought of going to see one of these matches or events LIVE in your own home town but dont know where to start looking.. I will be a good sport and bring you the information on what happening ,when, where, how much and where to get tickets!

IPL currently on - Tickets from as little as R40 - R120 through computicket.
Next game in Johannesburg 2 and 3rd May, Pretoria - 6th May ,so get your dose of the Dehli Daredevils or the Chennai Super Kings to name only 2 of the 8 teams!

Kyalami Superbike Championship - The SBK Superbike World Championship® is one of the top three global motor sport series alongside Formula 1 and MotoGP. Attracting approximately 1,000,000 race spectators and has a worldwide TV viewing audience of more than 2 billion. The Venue will be at Kyalami Midrand from the 15 to 17 May 2009. General Admission tickets available through computicket, for hospitality packages contact African Chapter Team for further information.

Lions Rugby Tour - The deal is the richest in the history of Springbok rugby and it covers a schedule of 10 matches that sees the Lions facing four provincial teams, two invitation sides, the Emerging Springboks, and the Springboks in three tests between 30 May and 4 July 2009. Tickets for the Lions` games are not cheap, but South African Breweries (SAB) will be bringing the matches to the fans by also sponsoring SAB Bok Towns in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town for all 10 games. Tickets are available through computicket and hospitality packages are available on request.

Soccer Confederation Cup - Confederation Cup: The 8th FIFA Confederations Cup will be held in South Africa from 14 June to 28 June, 2009, as a prelude to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. the opening match will be played at Coca-Cola Park in Johannesburg. Tickets available through http://www.fifa.com/.

Dont forget if you are visiting SA during this time and you have a day to spare we have some awsome activities and day trips catering for everyones fancy! For your pre and post tours including accommodation, transport and activities contact our reservations team on 011 5456100, for your personalised itinerary and take advantage of our great value deals over the next couple of months.

So hurry and get your tickets to avoid any disappointments and becoming a couch potato this winter!

Exciting times in South Africa

This first quarter of 2009 has been a cracker! So much hype going down whether it's talk of 2009 or 2010, South Africa is in the headlines. My job is to keep up to date with product, technology and what hot and happening in the travel industry and that's proving to be quite a challenging task... there is just never a dull moment!
Having said this - it is not a bad thing at all! Yes, we are going through a world recession but the world is still turning and life as we know it is still moving on....faster.

I think everybody in the travel industry and many other industries are changing their outlooks, adjusting and re focusing in these trying times. I recently had the pleasure of listening to Micheal Jackson... no "the other Micheal Jackson" as he is known - a motivational speaker who had a very interesting view to CHANGE and yes the economic crisis is a metamorphisis of change together with it's challenges but the change is imperative and we have to accept it to be able to move on to the next chapter! .

Our budgets may be tighter but the travel industry can feel it too and are making a huge effort to accommodate the CHANGE and I have never in my 15 years in travel seen so many specials and great value for money! Yes, this is fantastic news to you and I.. maybe that 10 day holiday abroad isn’t possible this year but there is still so much unexplored in areas and hidden gems in South Africa. If you havent explored that "local is lekker" you are missing out.Check out MARCH AND APRIL Specials for some ideas, if you dont see what you are looking for please ask our friendly team for assistance, there is so much choice - we cant possibly list it all!

With the winter months fast approaching, more outstanding deals will be squeezing in. Watch our site for British Lions Packages and PLAN your travels in the next coming months, it's going to be buzzing with activity with Federation cup visitors, Lions Rugby supporters - you don't want to be left out of the action these coming months!

Welcome to 2009 and our first Blog!

With January almost at the end, we are all well into the swing of things again, after holidays and festive season celebrations! Now it is time for working towards goals and staying positive for the year ahead with fresh ideas and enthusiasm. But as pay day finally arrives in January and you already have the itchy feet syndrome to travel, I have the perfect reason why you can now plan a weekend break or day outing in February ! With all the Valentines Day hype that has hit with vengeance, there has been an explosion of great value for money packages whether it is a romantic weekend or a special outing with partners, friends of family you have in mind, we have put our creative minds together and worked hard at bringing you a variety of exciting yet affordable options for all! For Combinations of Bush, Spa and Animal encounters - check our Special occasions packages for futher details ,but hurry as all are filling up fast.