A Birthday Celebration in Southern Africa
Welcome to South Africa! Your family's birthday adventure begins with a quick stop in Johannesburg before embarking on your safari in two incredible private game reserves: Madikwe & Sabi Sand. This incredible journey culminates with a stay on the beaches of Mozambique, where you can all reminisce on this once-in-a-lifetime trip you've just shared together.
September 20th - 21st | Johannesburg
September 21st - 24th | Madikwe Private Game Reserve
September 24th - 27th | Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
September 27th - October 1st | Mozambique
Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (JNB), you will be met at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where your Meet and Greet will be waiting for you as you step off the bus. You will then be assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs.
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From the airport arrivals hall, make the short walk to your hotel for check-in.
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Johannesburg, affectionately referred to by locals as “Jozi” or “Joburg,” is the largest city in South Africa and one of the 50 largest urban areas in the world. Though not traditionally a tourist destination, Johannesburg is a transit point for connecting domestic and international flights and has become a cultural hub, with museums, theaters, art galleries, and libraries. There are opportunities for shopping at upmarket shopping centers like Sandton City, the Mall of Africa, and Nelson Mandela Square and, for souvenirs and African art, at flea markets like Oriental Plaza and the Rosebank Flea Market. Johannesburg is the home of the Constitutional Court, the highest court in South Africa, and tours to the Apartheid Museum often combine a visit to Constitution Hill. Other attractions include former townships like Alexandra and Soweto where visitors learn about South Africa’s apartheid history. The Mandela Museum, located in the former home of Nelson Mandela, is located in Soweto.
Providing convenience, style, and all the upscale facilities you'd expect from an award-winning hotel, the InterContinental Hotel near an airport offers travelers a truly memorable stay. Enjoy a host of services and facilities, such as conferencing, a spa, and a restaurant. Explore a nearby city, with art galleries, museums, and shops. While game reserves are a short drive away for an authentic South African safari vacation.
InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport
3x Classic Rooms
The 32-34 m2 Classic Room features a king bed, double bed, or two twin beds and en-suite bathroom. Classic Rooms may include a balcony.
Inclusions: Breakfast daily, welcome drink at reception on arrival, complimentary Wi-Fi high speed internet access and complimentary access to the 24-hour state-of-the-art hotel gym
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After breakfast and check-out, you will transfer to the Johannesburg International Airport for your onward flight.
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From the airport, you will depart on your shuttle flight with Federal Air to your safari stop in Madikwe Private Game Reserve.
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Upon arrival, your safari will begin immediately as you are met by your safari guide for transfer via game vehicle to your hotel for check-in. Be sure to have your cameras ready as you look out for wildlife during your drive!
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Madikwe is a 150,000 acre game reserve that offers malaria-free Big Five game viewing. The primarily flat landscape is a mix of grassland and woodland interspersed with kopjes and small mountains, and it boasts a spectacular diversity of flora and fauna. This is one of few reserves with consistent viewing of the endangered African wild dog, as well as elephant, leopard, lion, rhino, antelope, and hundreds of bird species, including the large kori bustard. Sunset is a great time to see animals gathering at Madikwe Dam to drink.
Located just north of the Pilanesberg and right up against the Botswana border, Madikwe is the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa, though it remains one of the lesser known.
Morukuru Family Madikwe is located on a private concession in the south-east corner of Madikwe Game Reserve and consists of three exclusive-use safari houses: a 2-bedroom Owner's House, a 3-bedroom River House, and a 5-bedroom Farm House. Each house operates completely independently and is fully staffed, including a private game drive vehicle. All meals, drinks, and activities are included. Children of all ages are welcome (and can join on game drives), making Morukuru Family Madikwe the perfect destination for a malaria-free family safari. All three houses are fenced and off-grid (solar).
For larger families / groups it is also possible to combine two or more houses. Owner's House and River House are situated on the banks of the Marico River, a few 100 meters apart. Farm House sits on the other side of a mountain, approximately 15 minutes drive away from the other two houses. Thanks to the 'Morukuru Freedom Concept' guests can tailor-make their stay from A-Z with no fixed timings and total flexibility to do whatever they want, whenever they want. Guests can also get involved in conservation and community support through the optional 'Safaris with a Purpose' package.
Morukuru Family Madikwe
Farm House
Located over the mountain from its sister exclusive-use safari houses, is Morukuru Farm House. This modern contemporary five-bedroom African homestead’s dedicated hospitality team comprises a private guide, tracker, hostess, Chef, butler, and housekeepers committed to delivering an unforgettable (multi-generational) family safari. All five of the uniquely decorated bedrooms are linked to the main area by a covered walkway.
Inclusions: VIP Meet & Assist at OR Tambo International Airport, private and exclusive-use of the house. Complimentary Wi-Fi (limited bandwidth), breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, local soft drinks, water, juices, coffee, tea, local house wines & local spirits. Private chef, butler, host and housekeeping staff, private guide & tracker, private safari drive vehicle, private bush walks (16 years and older), sundowner drinks and picnics. Road transfers within Madikwe Game Reserve, entrance fee/reserve gate fee. Laundry service
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Thanks to the exclusive-use concept at Morukuru Family Madikwe, guests have total freedom to decide when they want to go out for a game drive, with no fixed schedules. Children of all ages can join as well. Adults (16 and older) can also go on Big-5 game walks; for children under 16, a guided nature walk in a fenced-in safe area is possible. Other activities include fishing in the Marico River, bush meals, romantic sleep-outs, and massage treatments and interactive African drumming lessons.
The optional 'Safaris with a Purpose' package at Morukuru Family Madikwe includes a visit to the local school in a nearby village; one of the researchers in Madikwe will give a talk on their important work. Guests can also participate in rhino notching or similar activities. This package can only be booked with a minimum 4-night stay at any of the houses.
Morukuru Family Madikwe
Farm House
Inclusions: VIP Meet & Assist at OR Tambo International Airport, private and exclusive-use of the house. Complimentary Wi-Fi (limited bandwidth), breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, local soft drinks, water, juices, coffee, tea, local house wines & local spirits. Private chef, butler, host and housekeeping staff, private guide & tracker, private safari drive vehicle, private bush walks (16 years and older), sundowner drinks and picnics. Road transfers within Madikwe Game Reserve, entrance fee/reserve gate fee. Laundry service
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Enjoy a final morning game drive on the Madikwe Reserve before being dropped off at the Madikwe Airstrip for your onward flight.
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From the airstrip, you will depart on your shuttle flight with Federal Air for Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport.
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Connect on your shuttle flight with Federal Air for Londolozi in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
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The Sabi Sand Game Reserve, named for the Sabie and Sand Rivers which flow through it, is renowned for its wildlife density and predator interactions; seldom will a visitor not see the Big Five. Although it shares a fenceless boundary with Kruger National Park, much of the wildlife in the Sabi Sand stays more or less in the reserve. Over the years, the animals have become used to the presence of safari vehicles, resulting in close encounters, particularly with the elusive leopards.
Roaming packs of African wild dogs, territorial lions, and large herds of elephants are also signature sightings. As well as having a consistently high density of wildlife, the reserve's conservation ethos keeps vehicle numbers to a minimum at wildlife sightings. This offers a more exclusive safari experience while ensuring the welfare of the habituated animals. Being in the private reserve generally affords more flexibility with opportunities to off-road, enjoy night drives and bush walks, all of which make visiting this area a truly unique experience.
Enchanting and intimate, Founders Camp is ideally situated to provide an insider’s view of the secrets of river life. Ten idyllic superior chalets repose in the shade of ancient Ebony and Matumi trees along the banks of the Sand River. A touch of bush bohemia is how Founders Camp has been described. Swathes of fabrics in soft shades can be found in the riverside lounge and the Family Suites with interconnecting sky walks give this camp a young and vibrant energy that appeals to discerning individuals and modern day families.
Londolozi Founders Camp
3x Superior Chalets
Each of the beautifully designed Superior Chalets at Founders Camp are en-suite and come with their very own, private plunge pools.
Inclusions: All meals, teas and coffees daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, two safari drives daily in open Land Rovers, nature walks accompanied by experienced armed rangers, transfers to/from Londolozi airstrip to lodge, emergency medical evacuation insurance, laundry, in-room Wi-Fi
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No two days are the same at Londolozi and the experience is tailored to suit individual preferences and expectations. There is a certain rhythm and pace to the experience that stirs a sense of homecoming on repeat visits and a pleasing sense of order for first time bushveld visitors. Game drives at Londolozi are taken by professional, passionate and knowledgeable rangers and trackers, who have many years of experience between them. With over 16,000 hectares of traversing wilderness, no two game drives are ever the same.
In today’s safari practice, rifles have been replaced with cameras, and the only shooting done is to photograph the majesty of animals, birds and trees. Londolozi’s rangers specialize in photographic safaris and, where possible, will position the vehicle for guests to get the best angle for photography. They will also share advice and knowledge where they can so you can capture the moment in all its glory. Other activities available are The Londolozi Photographic Studio, The Londolozi Living Boutique, The Healing House, and The Londolozi Village Walk.
Say good-bye to your safari during one last game drive to see the incredible wildlife.
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Depart on your private charter flight to Nelspruit Airport with CessZani Aviation.
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Connect on your flight from Nelspruit Airport to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport. From Joburg, you will then fly to Vilankulo Airport in Mozambique.
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The coastal town of Vilanculos is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago, a paradise consisting of five islands. Second in size is your home for the next few nights, Benguerra Island. A wide diversity of wildlife inhabits the area, which is a striking fusion of freshwater lakes, woodlands and open grasslands. Forests of coconut, palm and casuarina trees throw shade over the landscape, and sand dunes rise up from endless beaches bracketing stunning coral reefs. The blues of sea and sky merge with green foliage brought to life by the abundance of brightly colored migratory birds and varied marine life.
Elevated on the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay, Santorini Mozambique astounds with endless Archipelago views from every angle. Its sprawling villas are nestled amidst coconut trees and lush landscaping, forming a private oasis in Vilanculos. This unspoiled patch of paradise is positioned above a long stretch of beach strewn with colourful sea shells and warm waters that shift gently with the changing tides.
Here, guests can experience the charm of a Greek-inspired village mixed with the wild beauty of Africa and the Indian Ocean.
A short 30-minute drive from the airport in Santorini’s open 4x4 converted safari vehicle through the coastal town of Vilanculos allows glimpses of traditional daily life along the way. A warm welcome awaits with refreshments, cold scented face cloths, and beaming smiles. For beneath the cool blue-and-white domed villas of Santorini beats a warm African heart. Authentic hospitality encourages you to settle into a newfound state of being.
Santorini Mozambique
Villa Da Praia
The Villa Da Praia is an exclusive-use villa situated a short distance away from the main villa. It comprises three large bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The third bedroom has its own entrance and garden terrace. The inside living area consists of an open plan lounge, dining, and bar area. The outside living area consists of a large covered patio with bbq, sitting and dining area, and rimflow pool with loungers overlooking the archipelago. The Villa da Praia has its own butler and a personal chef.
Inclusions: All meals at Santorini - breakfast, lunch, pre-dinner snacks & dinner. Non-alcoholic beverages: tea, coffee, water and a selection of soft drinks, alcoholic beverages: beers, house wines, selected spirits, Amarula, Dom Pedros and Affogatos. Cocktails: The local flavours of Mozambique can be enjoyed in one of the complimentary signature cocktails. Choose from the Tipsy Dhow cocktail made with local rum, banana and papaya or a classic Mojito which includes freshly grown mint form the veggie garden. Return airport transfers (shared with all clients arriving or departing on the same day). Wi-Fi available throughout the Main Villa, The Chapel and Villa da Praia. Laundry service.
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Being on the mainland, guests have the opportunity to experience everything this magical place has to offer from spending a day out on the magical waters surrounded by the flamboyance of flamingos to exploring the colourful markets and local shops of Vilanculos town.
There is an assortment of kayaks, stand up paddle boards, snorkeling gear, fishing gear and even a gym in a bag for a quick workout session or yoga on the sunset patio as the sun rises above the silhouette of Magaruque Island. These are all complimentary onsite activities.
Additional activities include scuba diving, bill fishing, horse riding, dhow safari trips, kite surfing, and scenic helicopter flights. For guests wanting complete exclusivity, luxury, and privacy when it comes to outsourced activities and experiences such as diving or fishing, there is the option of chartering the motorized super cat, Aphrodite.
Whether you are up for adventure, complete relaxation or simple romantic walks on the beach – a family is ready to make this experience exactly as you dreamt it: A holiday worth treasuring and memories to last a lifetime.
Santorini Mozambique
Villa Da Praia
Inclusions: All meals at Santorini - breakfast, lunch, pre-dinner snacks & dinner. Non-alcoholic beverages: tea, coffee, water and a selection of soft drinks, alcoholic beverages: beers, house wines, selected spirits, Amarula, Dom Pedros and Affogatos. Cocktails: The local flavours of Mozambique can be enjoyed in one of the complimentary signature cocktails. Choose from the Tipsy Dhow cocktail made with local rum, banana and papaya or a classic Mojito which includes freshly grown mint form the veggie garden. Return airport transfers (shared with all clients arriving or departing on the same day). Wi-Fi available throughout the Main Villa, The Chapel and Villa da Praia. Laundry service.
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After breakfast and check-out, you will be met for a private transfer to Vilankulo Airport (VNX).
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Fly from Vilankulo Airport to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport.
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Depart on your long-haul, international flight home.
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If you like what you read and are ready to pull the trigger on this once-in-a-lifetime African adventure, just let your Travel Curator know and scenset will send through payment instructions.
We would be thrilled to secure all the reservations for you and make sure everything is taken care of, including special surprises along the way.
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.