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Destinations, Accommodation

Safari Resorts in Africa You Need to Know About from Cape to Cairo

by Anja du Plessis

Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Safari Resorts in Africa You Need to Know About from Cape to Cairo

For more than a century the famed Cape to Cairo trip has captured the world’s imagination. Envisioned as the largest railway on the continent, the project was meant to connect two of the most critical ports in Africa, Cape Town harbor in the South and Port Said in the North in Egypt. Sadly the railroad was never completed. In the vein of this epic South to North traversing of the continent, the journey still ignites the imagination of adventurers across the globe. This LuxVenture® trip was created to be the ultimate dream adventure. Experiencing no less than 7 countries in an unforgettable 42-day sojourn, this trip includes some of the best safari resorts in Africa and promises to be a bucket list trip for the intrepid adventurer-  explore Africa in style, from Cape to Cairo.

Cape Town l South Africa

Initially constructed as the Harbor Master’s private mansion in the 1800s, The Dock House has been converted into one of the city’s most upscale and luxurious boutique hotels. From the well-kept gardens around the outdoor swimming pool and bar area to the charming interior, this is the perfect place from which to explore more than 200 shops and restaurants right on your doorstep in the waterfront.

The following day, you will enjoy a private Cape Point & Peninsula Tour following the route that shows you breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and includes attractions like the Cape Point Nature Reserve.

View of the Two Oceans meeting at Cape Point.

Cape Point is the southern most tip of Africa

After your city escape, it’s time to unwind in the winelands. A private transfer delivers you to the home of Pinotage, the epicurean South African wine, to Lanzerac Hotel.  Located in the winelands town of Stellenbosch. The grounds boast expansive gardens and captivating views of the winelands. Along with epicurean delight and award-winning Spa, this escape will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed, ready for the next step in your epic adventure.

A private transfer delivers you to the home of Pinotage, the epicurean South African wine, to Lanzerac Hotel.

Exterior of Lanzerac Hotel with Ker & Downey Africa

The home of Pinotage, Lanzerac Hotel

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve | South Africa and Khwai Private Reserve | Botswana

After the winelands sojourn, travelers will journey to the heart of the Kruger National Park, landing at Skukuza Airport. Now the wild adventure begins with guests checking in to Londolozi Varty Camp, one of the top safari resorts in Africa. Here guests will spend a few days enjoying the superior splendor of the lodge, famous for its superior service and delightful cuisine.

Lions walking on dirt road with Ker & Downey Africa

Londolozi in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, signals the start of the game viewing adventure

After the last early morning game drive, and a hearty breakfast to ensure everyone’s ready for the day, guests travel to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for a two -and half-hour flight to the “smoke that thunders” Victoria Falls. From here take a transfer through to Botswana. Here your home for the next two nights is Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero, with the game viewing excitement starting immediately as you drive through the gates of Chobe National Park.

On Day 14, the adventure continues with a scenic light aircraft flight to Khwai Private Reserve. Arriving at Khwai Leadwood camp, This is one of the most luxurious camps in the area and located on the Khwai River, guests can expect to experience the best of both land and water-based activities at this safari resort. Hippo and even lions frequently cross the river and night game drives provide a special glimpse into the wildlife on this private concession.

People sitting on deck in bush at Khwai Leadwood with Ker & Downey Africa

One of the recommended safari resorts in Africa – Khwai Leadwood

The Okavango Delta beckons next. A light aircraft will bring you via transfer to the door of Duke’s camp, for the next three nights. Known for its carefully considered location that provides year-round views of a permanent large body of water, this Camp is well loved for a reason as one of the top safari resorts in Africa. Tastefully decorated with vintage safari furniture, the 12 canvas suites are sure to light the safari passion within.

Tent in bush at Duke’s Camp with Ker & Downey Africa

The private deck of the canvas tent at Duke’s Camp
Tastefully decorated with vintage safari furniture, the 12 canvas suites at Duke’s Camps are sure to light the safari passion within.

Victoria Falls | Zimbabwe

Almost halfway through the epic adventure, guests next travel to Zimbabwe, to the smoke that thunders, Victoria Falls Hotel.  While it might be Zimbabwe’s oldest hotel, dating back to 1904, the grand dame features 149 rooms and suites set within a lush tropical garden. Guests can also look forward to a spa, hair salon, gym, mini golf and swimming pool. A mere five minute walk from the falls, the spray from the falls can be enjoyed while having breakfast on the hotel terrace.

Victoria Falls Hotel exterior with Ker & Downey Africa

Views of the falls can be enjoyed from the terrace of the Victoria Falls Hotel

Masai Mara National Reserve | Kenya

Next guests fly to Kenya for a two night stay at Hemingways. Tucked into a peaceful suburb away from the bustle of central Nairobi, Hemingways, part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World offer not only easy access to the capital but also superlative cuisine at its restaurant. On the second day, guests can enjoy a half day tour of the city and its many attractions.

Also taking inspiration from the famous author, guests will take a short domestic flight via Wilsons Airport to the quintessential Masai Mara National Reserve and check in to Ol Seki Hemingways Mara, a quintessential safari resort in Africa. Situated on the community-owned Naboisho Conservancy, known for its large number of elephants, big cats, giraffes and endangered wild dogs, this camp is a must visit luxury experience. Night game drives, walking and horseback riding safaris along with Maasai village visits ensure perfect harmony of culture and adventure.

Known for its large number of elephants, big cats, giraffes and endangered wild dogs, this camp is a must visit luxury experience.

Sunrise over bush at Ol Seki Hemingways with Ker & Downey Africa

Sunrise enjoyed over Ol Seki Hemingways in the Masai Mara National Reserve

Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town | Tanzania & Zanzibar

On Day 36 of this epic adventure, guests travel to East of Africa to Tanzania and Zanzibar. From the Seronera airstrip it’s a short transfer to Asilia Dunia Camp that offers captivating views over the Serengeti. Located near Moru Kopjes, guests will also enjoy quieter, more private areas of the park. The bucket list item that guests are bound to eagerly look forward to here is the hot air balloon safari that will provide a true birds eye view of the beauty of Africa. Guests will spend three glorious days and nights in this oasis of beauty lapping up the wondrous sights.

The next camp is in a truly wondrous location close to the crater with home being Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp. The tented suits at this safari resort are located close to the entrance of the crater within an acacia forest and game drives can begin as early as 6:15am. Exclusive game spotting like the endangered black rhino and wild dogs are some of what guests can look forward to along with the highest concentration of lions in the world at this indulgent safari resort. A walking tour around the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater is also an experience not to be missed.

View from tent with Ker & Downey Africa

Lemala Ngorongoro offers an unparalleled safari experience

White sandy beaches and the rich fabric of the spice island beckons next. Zuri Zanzibar, a top safari resort pit stop on the western shores of the island, awaits guests. This water sport, photography and culinary haven provides a welcome chance to relax and let the senses bathe in beauty the next five days of the epic adventure.  A half day visit to Stone Town provides a glimpse into the past of this island’s rich history as a trade nexus for eons gone by.

The last stop in Tanzania sees guests traveling on a short flight for a stay at the Oyster Bay Hotel. This charming hideaway boasts large gardens and ocean facing suites that let the cool sea air in. Famous for its well-loved lunch of lobster and champagne, the service and indulgent offering is bound to be a memorable one for all guests.

Cairo, Luxor, Giza Pyramids | Egypt

The final chapter of this epic adventure sees guests arrive in Egypt for a magical memorable 7-day visit to the home of the Pharaohs. With such a rich history and bucket list of things to see, our travel experts have crafted an itinerary that means guests will enjoy the best of Egypt’s charm in style akin to that of the great Pharaohs.

City view with Ker & Downey Africa

Enjoy Egypt’s charm in style akin to that of the great Pharaohs

The first excursion sees guests visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum – the largest museum in the world for one single civilization. Here you can gaze upon the boy king Tutankhamen’s Golden Mask along with the scores of other treasures the museum holds. Lunch is served at a local authentic restaurant to refresh guests ahead of a visit to the Giza pyramids, the only surviving wonder of the Seven Wonders of the World. A camel ride amongst these wonders is a wonderful experience- these ‘desert ships’ stand up with their back legs first adding an element of adventure before taking in the splendid views even begin.

The next morning a flight to Aswan takes guests to the southern border of Egypt, where after check-in at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel, guests will visit the temple of Philae dedicated to the goddess of love and passion Isis. A leisurely afternoon spent on a local felucca sailboat completes the day.

A leisurely afternoon spent on a local felucca sailboat completes the day.

Felucca on river with Ker & Downey Africa in Egypt

A felucca sailboat is a must do when visiting the Nile River

On day 4 of the Egyptian adventure, guests transfer to Luxor while stopping at the temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the falcon gods. An evening visit to Luxor temple, built primarily by Pharaoh Ramses II, provides a magical experience of this ancient civilization by star light.

The following day a visit to the Valley of Kings, a treasure trove of wonders. The five-star Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, provides panoramic views over the Nile River and the ideal location from where to enjoy the Ancient Egyptian travel experience.

After a bountiful breakfast, guests now return to Cairo via airplane and have time to finish their souvenir and gift shopping at the famous Khan el Khalili market. The heated outdoor pool at Le Meridien Cairo Airport is the perfect balm for travelers sharing memories and taking in the last of the African sun. sharing favorite memories and tales of an epic Cape to Cairo adventure before flying home after an incredible 42-day adventure.

The LuxVenture® Cape to Cairo adventures can also be tailor made to offer clients an unforgettable and unparalleled experience of Africa, combining the best in luxury and privacy using only the finest handpicked experiences and top safari resorts. Focused on crafting special moments at every turn, this is a once in a lifetime experience for true connoisseurs. Ready to explore the continent in this breath-taking epic adventure – then get in touch.

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