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South Africa, Travelinds, Travelinds Destinations

Hlatikulu Bush Lodge, iMfolozi-Hluhluwe

JULY 2016

Photo Credits:  Wendy Buchanan (thanks, mom!)

A while ago, Travelinds told you about one of our favourite game reserves in Kwazulu-Natal – iMfolozi-Hluhluwe National Park.  The few days spent at Nselweni Bush Lodge was a great family holiday and we couldn’t wait to go back again!  This time we tried a new hideout – the Hlatikulu Bush Lodge!

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Hlatikulu Bush Lodge

This was a good surprise as we had only booked Hlatikulu in a rush to secure accomodation in an already full reserve.  However, as soon as we arrived, after navigating the jolting 4×4 route to get to the lodge, we realised that we had made yet another magnificent discovery!
The bush at your door
The camp is beautifully maintained by Siyabonga and New Year, both of whom have been there for ages and visibly love what they do. Right on the riverbend, with no fence, the animals and birds come and go as they please.  All around the camp are tweets and chirps, grunts and growls, spoor and feathers and evidence of life.
The deal

The camp can accomodate eight people at most, in four lovely huts (each for two people), all of which boast views of either the river or the bush.  The booking includes… (wait for it!)… TWO bush walks with Siyabonga and his gun (2-3hours, one morning, one afternoon) for every night that you stay.  New Year will cook any food that you can bring (and he will insist on setting up AND cleaning up everything in the communal lounge and diningroom himself, too). These two wonderful humans keep the huts immaculately clean and look after you while you simply relax and enjoy the wildlife.

13697057_10157119315235291_4857569789511689644_nNature up close

The resident bushpig, Georgina, can get a little persistent in the evening, but please, do not feed her even if she follows you down the boardwalk or begs.  There are also hippos, crocodiles, lions, elephants, buck and other creatures that roam in and out of the camp at their leisure – look around when you are outside and do remember that you are living in the real African wild now!

We fell asleep each night to lions roaring, hippos grunting, hyenas laughing and melodious nightjars. Early mornings wake up to birds singing and nyalas crunching grass right outside our windows.
A different perspective

The bush walks were also well worth the effort and if you do what Siyabonga tells you, you’ll be in good hands. He’s an experienced game ranger and takes his job, and your safety, seriously.  The animals are wild and unpredictable, especially where humans provoke and disrespect the natural order of things.  It is our responsibility to preserve and care for nature and a bush walk is a great way to remind yourself of your roots.13699980_10157123764390291_2516487894411405346_n

Hlatikulu, we’ll be back!

Read more reviews here.13690805_10157119327665291_1327660552813445550_n

Rhino Card

Use your rhino card to receive discounts on day fees, accomodation and more.  It was worth it for us to buy the card (for a couple) just to cover our day fees during the week here.  Ezemvelo KZN wildlife is also a great cause to support!

 

South Africa, Travelinds

A bus from Johannesburg to Gaborone

16 February 2015

Johannesburg has treated us to a fine stay with the family we love.  Today we took a trip up to Gaborone, Botswana for a night, to see the old folks and catch up with a beloved aunty. Since we were short on time and had been living out of suitcases for a month already, we decided to try a ‘luxury bus’ instead of the InterCape as we had heard about this option.

We found the Flight Connect bus on the internet and decided to try it. It claimed a 6 hour trip, with on-board WiFi, directly from the bus station at O.R.Tambo International Airport to Gaborone, Botswana.  To us this seemed a reasonable package for the price offered and we booked our tickets through email.

The office (in Botswana) was very prompt in replying to us with a booking number and indicating methods of payment (cash or credit card) and ensuring that we knew where to go. We got to the airport and then headed to the bus terminal, which is directly behind the Intercontinental Hotel, outside arrivals.  The bus was on time and our names were on the list. We made the payment for our return ticket when we arrived in Gaborone.

Tips:

  • There is a bathroom on board and it is clean, but rather bumpy.
  • The bus stops at the border, you jump out and go through immigration and then WALK THROUGH no-mans land (not too far) to the next border post and jump back on to the bus on the other side of the border. Don’t be alarmed when the bus is not there as you come out of the first immigration building.
  • There is WiFi on-board but no charging stations so take a fully charged battery with you.
South Africa, Travelinds

iMfolozi-Hluhluwe Game Reserve

30 January 2015

 

One of our favourite pastimes – and one of the things we miss the most about South Africa – is game viewing.  Not in a zoo, of course, but in a reserve.  The natural habitat of the animals is somewhere you are not guaranteed to see anything at all; but it’s all about the search!  Nothing compares with driving around all day scanning the bushveld, trees, slopes and ravines for animals and then catching a glimpse of the flicking white tail-end of a leopard, or the majestic mane of a ferocious (or lazy) male lion in the shade of a bush.  Reversing away from an approaching elephant or speeding to get away from a protective rhino mother is all the adrenaline you need!

So, this week was spent basking in God’s awesome creation at iMfolozi-Hluhluwe Game Reserve. What a fantastic place to see interesting, dangerous, funny, wild, crazy, big, tiny, rare and fascinating African wildlife in their natural habitat. Four hours from home,  this game reserve is a perfect getaway for long weekends.

Accomodation

We stayed at Nselweni Bush Camp which is down the road from Mpila, where we were supposed to be staying. Thanks to a misunderstanding and a booking problem, the management kindly allowed us to move over to Nselweni – a beautiful bush camp right on the bend of the river. We woke up with the birds and fell asleep with the night sounds of lions, frogs, hyenas and cicadas. It was perfect for a romantic getaway in a private “half tent/half cabin”that looks on to the bush. Conveniently, it was at a central iMfolozi location, about 20 minutes to Mpila.

Nselweni has fully equipped units with a braai place (that’s barbecue for non-Saffers), a gas oven, a fridge, kitchen utensils, an outside table and a semi-covered verandah. The shower window can open right up and the bathroom and bedroom both look out into the bush. We enjoyed the nyala that graze outside your hut during the day and its a colorful bird paradise.

We stayed here three nights in Unit 2 & 3 – both are lovely, private and quiet, especially Unit 2. Units 4 & 5 have half views of the river but only the Conference Centre deck gives a panoramic view of the river; and this is open to anyone who wants to use it. We saw buffalo, kingfishers, crocodile, trumpeter hornbills, impala, vultures and many others right from the deck.

Wildlife

At any wildlife reserve, you need to respect nature and remember that wild animals don’t follow the rules or take heed of the ‘boundaries’ us humans expect.  Watch out for the opportunistic hyenas at night who steal meat right off the braai or pinch anything left out on your verandah while you sleep. It’s best to take a torch and maybe a stick if you’re walking around the camp at night.

Our highlight sightings were a pack of wild dog, lion, puffback, bathing yellow-billed kite, a huge elephant breeding herd with little babies, so many white rhino and a metre-long vine snake on the road.

Night drive

On the last night, we treated ourselves to a night game drive (which leaves from Mpila camp) and we were so impressed with Bheki, our guide, who found us lion (up close and roaring), genet, chameleon, vine snake, crocodile, buffalo, rhino, nightjar, bushbuck.

Ezemvelo Wildlife

Thanks to Ezemvelo KZN wildlife, it was a wonderful stay.  They are doing a great job protecting Kwa-Zulu Natal’s wildlife, especially the precious rhinos!  We never did see that elusive Black Rhino on this trip, but the Whites were magnificent.

South Africa, Travelinds

Tsitsikamma, Storms River Mouth – I <3 South Africa

Destination: Tsitsikamma

Eastern Cape, South Africa

Description

Tsitsikamma National Park is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in South Africa and it is situated on the world-famous Garden Route.  TsitsikammaIts rolling green hills, sheer cliffs, wild oceans, fascinating wildlife and rugged beauty are simply breath-taking; Mother Nature at her finest.Tsitsikamma

 

Tourist Must-sees

In the National Park itself, there are camping facilities, chalets, hiking trails, picnic spots, a bird-watchers paradise, plenty of wildlife and the rugged sandy beaches that belong to the earth, not to tourists.Tsitsikamma view

There are also amazing sight-seeing opportunities in the nearby areas of Storms River Mouth and the village, Nature’s Valley, Plettenberg Bay and The Crags.

The Big Tree, The Otter Trail, Robberg Nature Reserve and Birds of Eden are some of my favourite spots in this area.

 

Attractions range from the highest bungee-jump in the world at Bloukrans to the five-day beach hike on the Otter Trail, this place offers adventure-seekers a multitude of thrilling endeavours.

 

There are also a number of acclaimed restaurants nearby.

I especially recommend De Oude Martha in Storms River Village (a short drive from the Tsitsikamma Reserve). There are also other interesting places like Canopy Tours, Monkeyland and the Elephant Sanctuary to make for a great day out with the whole family.

 

Tsitsikamma is also a perfect setting in which to relax and enjoy the sunsets, or do some serious whale-watching and stroll along the green pathways alongside the dark blue coastline.

My favourite place

My favourite place here is at the Tsitsikamma National Park at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp. There are cute wooden cabins here, perfect for a romantic getaway, where in fact we enjoyed a very romantic spring break in October 2011.

Otter TrailMemory Bank:

We walked a little way along the Otter Trail to reach the famous waterfall pool, seeing antelope, cormorants, whales, dolphins, seagulls, baboons and kingfishers along the way. Then followed a lunchtime picnic followed by a cool swim in the tannin-coloured waters below the waterfall before heading back along the trail. A little way before the camp, we found a secret rock pool below the path where we enjoyed a dip in the refreshing waters; dodging the bunch of sea urchins on one end of the pool.  Such an amazing day!

Fun facts:

  • Whale-watching Season: June to November
  • Climate:                                 Temperate Coastal Climate – The wettest months are May and October, and the driest are June and July.

Helpful Resources:

Booking website: Tsitsikamma National Park (SANPARKS)

Recommended Tour Agent: Imvelaphi Safaris (her name is Jeannette and she is a vibrant, knowledgeable and professional entrepreneur who will provide you with an awesome tour package).

Check out more posts about South Africa here >> *I <3 South Africa*

 

South Africa, Travelinds

Port Elizabeth – I <3 South Africa

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Destination: Port Elizabeth,

Eastern Cape, South Africa

Port-Elizabeth

Description:

Port Elizabeth is the fifth largest city in South Africa and is situated on the east coast.  A main city in the Eastern Cape Province, it has a large harbour, beautiful beaches, a developed infrastructure and a good local university.

Tourist must-sees:

This area is a great draw-card for tourists with everything from white sandy beaches to a mixed bag of friendly locals, to the sprawling National Addo Elephant Park only 40 minutes out of the city.

Some top recommendations from me include:

  • King’s beach and the Boardwalk shopping complex
  • Schoenmakerskop – village and seaside experience
  • Bluewater Bay area – beach days, picnic and children’s activities
  • Sunday’s River – ferry, estuary and holiday resorts.
  • National Addo Elephant Reserve – with “Big 5” and easy driving. It includes whale and dolphin sightings on the coastal reserve side.
  • Van Staden’s Wild Flower reserve – hiking, picnicking, bird-watching

My favourite place:

This is, by far, Sardinia Bay – a magnificent white beach with impressive sand dunes, rough coastline and endless rock pools to explore further down the beach. Great for any time of the day, early morning runs, picnics, beach days or romantic evening strolls.

Day Trips:

From Port Elizabeth, a day trip to the following destinations is a breeze: Port Alfred, Addo Elephant Park, St Francis Bay, Bathurst, Grahamstown, Kenton-on-Sea and Plettenberg Bay.

Don’t forget to do the absolutely beautiful drive along the coastline to the north of East London.  Grab a picnic lunch and beach gear and explore the coastline to find the hidden treasures of Glen Gariff, Haga-Haga and Morgan’s Bay too!

Fun facts:

Nicknames: The Friendly City, The Windy City, Algoa Bay, P.E., The Bay,

Title: Port Elizabeth was not named after Queen Elizabeth as often assumed, but after the late wife of its founder, Sir Richard Donkin.

Check out more posts about South Africa here >> *I <3 South Africa*

South Africa, Travelinds

East London – I <3 South Africa

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Destination: East London,

Eastern Cape, South Africa

routes.co.za
Source: www.routes.co.za

Description:

East London is a lovely coastal city in the wilder parts of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa.  It has a small harbour, really beautiful beaches, sought-after schools and maintains a relaxed small-town vibe.  It even has two shopping malls – Vincent Park and Hemingways Mall.

My favourite place:

This has to be a toss up between two classic Slummies landmarks – the rugged expanse of the sandy Nahoon Beach and a famous drive in cafe called The Windmill, with THE best milkshakes (in the world?), ice-creams and toasted sandwiches.

Tourist Spots:

Best Beaches: Nahoon beach, Gonubie Beach, Cintsa

Best Restaurants: Two Dogs (Beacon Bay), Le Petit (Nahoon), Cafe Neo (beachfront), Fish River Sun (highway), Lavender Blue (Beacon Bay), The Heavenly Pancake House (Gonubie).

Tourist Spots: There are also so many private game reserves on the coastal road from East London to Port Elizabeth and the famous Nanaga Farm Stall where you can find a plethora of curios, as well as fresh and delicious South African snacks like biltong, nuts, chocolate treats and dried fruit.

Accommodation: We’d also like to recommend a stay at the Seaforth Guest House, a quaint bed and breakfast right near the beach in Gonubie – they also offer an on-site beauty salon. Bonus!

Day Trips:

From East London, a day trip to the following destinations is a breeze: Hogsback, Cintsa beaches, Port Alfred, Bathurst, Grahamstown and Trennery’s Hotel.

Don’t forget to do the absolutely beautiful drive along the coastline to the north of East London.  Grab a picnic lunch and beach gear and explore the coastline to find the hidden treasures of Glen Gariff, Haga-Haga and Morgan’s Bay too!

Fun facts:

Nicknames: The Slum, Slondon, Slummies

Rugby team: Border Bulldogs

Check out more posts about South Africa here >> *I <3 South Africa*

South Africa, Travelinds

Travelinds <3 South Africa

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5 Dec 2013

Sawubona, Dumela, Molo, Hoegaanit, Howzit, Yo, Hello!
Since we are so passionate about South Africa, it felt appropriate to start a series of South African travel posts on this sad day, the final passing of our former president, Nelson Mandela (8 July 1918 – 5 December 2013).

South Africa is a land of beauty, energy, diversity, struggle, victory and determination – and where Travelinds calls home.  It boasts a wide array of cultures, 11 official languages, colourful traditions and an indescribable natural beauty.  Its recent history is filled with rage and confusion, its present is filled with tenacious endurance and the future of this ‘Rainbow Nation’ is yet to be determined.

Over the next few months, we’ll post a series of our favourite places to go in South Africa – there are so many! It’s the perfect destination for honeymooners, families, groups of friends, hikers, adrenaline junkies, curious travellers, destination weddings and nature enthusiasts.

There is so much to tell.

Our home, our South Africa.

South Korea, Travelinds

Finally! Korean Driver’s Licence acquired.

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30 September 2013

After 18 months of procrastination, I finally put in the (small amount of) effort and voila! One times Korean driver’s licence valid for 10 years, placed in my hands by lunch time.  For all South Africans living in Korea who, like me, need a little bit of motivation to brave the Korean administrative processes alone, here’s how as of September 2013:

1. Documents to prepare:

  • 3 x passport photos (colour)
  • 1 x verification/certified letter for driver’s licence
  • Original Passport
  • Original Alien Registration Card
  • Original South African licence
  • 12,000KRW (eye test and licence fee)

2. Embassy visit:

  • The South African embassy is in Yongsan, Seoul; and in ten minutes, assisted me with a certified copy of my South African Driver’s licence, officially stamped and signed.
  • Also, the fully bilingual receptionist was extremely helpful in directing me to helplines and advising bus routes.

3. Seoul Global Center

  • This is a fantastic center for foreign visitors in general. I received professional service from everyone; including the helpline, staff and administrative assistants.
  • It’s very easy to find, on Line 1 (blue) in front of the Jonggak subway station, Exit 6.  If you’re taking a taxi, ask for “Jonggak yok” and look for Exit 6 as a reference point.  Go up to the 5th floor to the licence desk (first desk on the right).
  • Present documents, original licence and photos; sign forms and then proceed to the eye test via the subway. (The assistant gives you detailed directions, with a map).
  • Return with completed eye test (5,000KRW) and surrender South African licence.  Pay 6,000KRW and receive Korean licence.
  • NOTE: I was concerned that my address was not in Seoul or Gyeonggi-do, but this was not an issue.

Tips:

  • Try and reach the Seoul Global Center early because lunch is from 11.30a.m. to 13.00pm.  Having arrived in Seoul by 9.30am, I was lucky enough to visit the embassy, take a taxi to the center, fill out all the paperwork, take subway (2 stops) to and from eye test clinic and make it back by 11.27am to be issued my Korean licence.  Working it!
  • Passport photos can be taken at any photography studio. It cost me 7,000KRW for 4 and because I took my own photo on my USB, they gave me a discount.
  • If you are lucky enough to have someone who can help you out (e.g. your director, a trustworthy friend etc), the embassy also provides service to a proxy in possession of your licence, passport, ARC and a signed letter of permission from you to collect the copy on your behalf. You do have to visit the Seoul Global Center in person, however, to take the eye test.
  • I briskly walked (about 20 minutes) from Oksu station (orange line 3) to the South African embassy.  Be warned, the (1.5km) walk consists of steep wooden steps up to the very top of the hill and then downhill Dokseodang-ro to the embassy.  Great exercise but, do factor in the time and effort, or take a taxi.
  • NOTE: If you are not a South African Citizen, I advise phoning the Seoul Global Center for information to check details.  South Africans do not have to take any written test, but this may be different for other nationalities. 

Good to know:

  • You have up to 3 years to reclaim your South African licence from the Global Center before it is destroyed. You need your airticket, Korean licence and ARC.
  • The eye test clinic is about 200m from the Jongno5 subway exit 1. It’s a tiny door that leads up to the 2nd floor so keep your eyes open.  Be prepared for little to no English levels here.

Good luck! It’s well worth a day trip for out-of-towners!

www.crossed-flag-pins.com

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Location and contact details:

South African Embassy

  • Mon to Thurs, 8:00 to 16:45; Fri, 8:00 to 15:30; (Lunch: 12:45 ~ 13:30).
  • 104 Dokseodang-ro (Hannam-dong), Yongsan-gu, Seoul 140-884
  • http://www.southafrica-embassy.or.kr/eng/embassy/contact.php
  • Nearest subway stations are Oksu (Line 3 orange) and Hannam (Jungang Line).  It is about a 20 min walk (or 5 min taxi) from Hangangjin Station (Line 6 brown).

Seoul Global Center

  • 5th Floor of Seoul Global Center Building (“Driver’s licence” desk), Jong-ro 38-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (it’s directly outside Exit 6 of Jonggak (Line 1), just walk straight about 100m and you’ll see the logo and “Seoul Global Centre”)
  • http://english.seoul.go.kr/lh/support/scof1.php
  • For information call: +82-2-2075-4130~1 (Seoul Global Center 5th floor) or 1330 (Korea’s tourist information call center) or 1588-5644 (BBB Korea)