South Africa and Mauritius

Your adventure begins in Johannesburg, South Africa, where a driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you by road to Noka Camp in the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, situated in the Waterberg region. The journey offers glimpses of the diverse landscapes that make this part of South Africa special. Noka Camp’s unique design, perched on cliffs, provides sweeping views of the surrounding terrain and valleys below, offering a stunning introduction to this remote wilderness area.

Noka Camp blends sustainability with luxurious comfort. Each suite is thoughtfully integrated into the environment, using solar power and advanced water conservation systems. After settling into your suite, enjoy a gourmet dinner under the vast African sky, listening to the sounds of the bush as night falls over the landscape.

Wake up to the peaceful sounds of the wilderness and start your day with a hot drink on the deck, overlooking the vast Lapalala Wilderness. Today is your first full day of safari, guided by experts. The reserve spans over 48,000 hectares and is home to diverse wildlife, including cheetah, rhino, and numerous bird species. Your guides will tailor the experience to your interests, ensuring you encounter some of the region’s most iconic animals.

After lunch and a relaxing dip in your private plunge pool, head out on an evening game drive. As the day cools, animals become more active, offering a great chance to spot predators like lion and hyena. With the sun setting behind the hills, enjoy a sundowner in the bush.

Spend another morning exploring the diverse landscapes of the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. This part of the Waterberg region is known for its rugged beauty, from rolling hills to riverine forests, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters. Your guides will share their knowledge of the area, highlighting not only the larger animals but also the smaller details, such as animal tracks and native plants.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat trip along a serene stretch of the reserve. As you drift through the waters, watch for hippos emerging from the depths and listen for the calls of African fish eagles. The riverbanks are rich with birdlife, including malachite kingfishers and other colorful species. Fishing rods are often brought along, allowing you to catch non-native bass in the waters.

A special experience awaits as you visit the Pangolorium, Noka Camp’s dedicated pangolin research and rehabilitation center. Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked mammal and critically endangered, making this center vital to their conservation. During your visit, you’ll learn about the efforts to protect these unique creatures, including tracking, rescue, and rehabilitation programs. This visit provides insight into the challenges of wildlife conservation and how lodges like Noka Camp contribute meaningfully to these efforts.

After your visit, enjoy leisure time at camp. Relax in your private plunge pool, soak in the spectacular views, or join a guided bush walk to explore the flora and fauna up close. The day provides a perfect mix of exploration and relaxation.

On your final morning at Noka Camp, enjoy an early breakfast while soaking in the last views of the surrounding wilderness. Afterward, you’ll be transferred directly to Johannesburg for your flight to Mauritius. Upon arrival on this tropical island, you’ll be greeted and transferred to SALT at Palmar, an eco-friendly beachfront resort on the island’s beautiful east coast. Known for its dedication to sustainability and local culture, SALT at Palmar provides a peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding after your safari adventure. Settle into your room, which offers uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and enjoy your first evening surrounded by the soothing sounds of the waves, a perfect transition from the bush to the beach.

For the week, immerse yourself in the beauty of Mauritius at SALT at Palmar, a beachfront resort on the island’s east coast. Start your mornings with a yoga session on the sand or take a refreshing swim in the clear, warm waters just outside your room. For those seeking adventure, the resort offers a variety of water sports, including snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking, allowing you to discover the vibrant marine life of Mauritius. After a morning of activity, unwind by the pool or take a walk along the beach, soaking in the serene surroundings. SALT at Palmar offers a peaceful escape where you can find your own balance between relaxation and exploration during your time on the island.

Continue your stay by exploring the cultural richness of Mauritius, as SALT at Palmar emphasises connecting guests with the local community. Join a market tour, learn traditional recipes in a cooking class with a Mauritian chef, or visit nearby villages to experience island life firsthand. The resort’s commitment to sustainability ensures that your stay respects the environment, with food sourced from local suppliers and solar energy reducing its impact. Enjoy leisure time between these activities with a dip in the pool or a peaceful moment on the beach. Take in the natural beauty of the coastline or simply enjoy the warm hospitality that the island is known for during the final days of your stay at SALT at Palmar.