Clients On the Go: From Cape Town to Mozambique
Poe Travel clients, the Garretts, recently set off on an African adventure with our pals at Exeter Safaris that took them from the city to the bush to a beachy paradise. . .
Photo courtesy of the Garretts
When many people think of a trip to Africa, safari is all that comes to mind—and we do love a safari. However, we also love when our clients take in all that the unique countries on this beautiful continent have to offer, and that’s exactly what our clients, Mike and Karen, did on their recent trip to South Africa and Mozambique with our on-the-ground partners at Exeter Safari Company.
Each itinerary created by Poe Travel in conjunction with Exeter Safaris is uniquely tailored to our clients as individuals, but Mike and Karen’s trip was simply to-die-for from start to finish, so we just had to share. . .
Day 1
Arrival in Cape Town, South Africa
After their overnight international flight, the Garretts arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, in the evening. On arrival, they were met and privately transferred to the Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel to settle in and relax after their long journey.
Hotel Spotlight: Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Set in Cape Town’s vibrant Kloof Street neighboorhood, Cape Cadogan offers a peaceful oasis in an historic setting. Kloof Street provides an authentic glimpse at local life with its village-like charm. Immerse yourself in the heartbeat of the city with hidden shopping gems, eateries for your foodie cravings, and captivating shows. The hotel is also only minutes by road from Cape Town’s most iconic attractions, so the city is truly right at your doorstep.
Photos courtesy of Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Local artisans have infused the hotel’s design with elegant accents at every turn, and each of the 19 rooms blends classic charm with modern luxury.
The hotel’s spa takes a holistic approach to wellness. To stay fit while you travel, head to the gym. Unwind in the sunroom, reminiscent of a Victorian home, or by the pool with a beverage in-hand. The restaurant, Upper Union, is a dining destination in and of itself in Cape Town.
Day 2
Cape Town
After such a long trek, today was a well-earned day at leisure to rest up and explore on their own—and to enjoy all the lovely amenities at their charming hotel.
With its exciting, almost Mediterranean vibe paired with an incredible culinary scene, beautiful Dutch architecture, thriving art community, and sports scene, Cape Town is a firm fan favorite. The iconic backdrop of Table Mountain doesn’t hurt, either. This trendy city has broad appeal, with local attractions including aforementioned Table Mountain, along with Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, Bo-Kaap, boutique shops, museums, wineries, and world-famous restaurants. For those venturing beyond the city, the Cape Winelands and Cape Peninsula are a day trip away.
Day 3
Cape Town
Once they were all settled into the South African time zone, Mike and Karen spent the day on a private full-day tour of the city and Table Mountain with a local guide.
First, it was up, up, and away on a cable car, revealing increasingly breathtaking views over the city and endless sea until they reached the top of Table Mountain. This took the couple away from crowds, with the chance to spot wildlife and simply take in the vistas. There is also the option to leave the cable car behind, for those feeling strong, and hike the 2.5 hours up Table Mountain to enjoy the 360-degree panoramas.
After heading back down, it was time to hop on bicycles to cruise the Sea Point Promenade. Cycling along this buzzing stretch gave them a look at interactive local art installations, showcasing Cape Town’s artistic diversity. These artworks cover topics ranging from rhino conservation to Nelson Mandela’s Robben Island history.
Arriving at the famous V&A Waterfront, they dropped their bikes and explored the Watershed’s quirky craft, design, and township art projects, which are all geared toward community upliftment.
The afternoon was spent walking the cobbled streets of the Bo-Kaap, taking in the brightly colored 17th-century houses. Taking Mike and Karen’s interests into mind, their local guide tailored this part of the day to them, visiting a selection of fascinating historical, artistic, and culinary highlights.
Photo courtesy of the Garretts
Day 4
Cape Town
Today was all about sipping and exploring for the Garretts as they set off on a private full-day wine tour.
Mike and Karen set out to explore one of South Africa’s most scenically beautiful areas, heading off the beaten track to discover farms that revel in their old-world roots.
Their tasting experience commenced at an iconic wine estate. The wine pairings awakened their senses as they took in the views of mountain ranges and lush gardens, along with an impressive collection of contemporary art.
After lunch, they visited some smaller, boutique, family-owned wine estates for more intimate wine tastings. They visited Franschhoek, established by the French Huguenots in 1688, which retains its historic charm and has seamlessly fused this with a contemporary vibe with its gourmet restaurants, appealing boutiques, and art galleries.
Day 5
Thornybush Game Reserve
After checking out of the Cape Cadogan, the Garretts were privately transferred to the Cape Town airport for their Airlink flight to Hoedspruit, after which they were privately transferred to the Saseka Tented Camp in the Thornybush Game Reserve to begin the safari portion of their adventure.
Thornybush Game Reserve is part of the Greater Kruger National Park and is famed for its variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). This 34,500-acre private reserve recently dropped fences with its neighbors, allowing the animals to move freely across a huge expanse of protected wilderness. Being in the private reserve allows you an exclusive game viewing experience, enhanced by the limited number of lodges and visitors and providing uncrowded encounters with wildlife. Bush walks and night drives offer an exciting way to get as close to the action as possible.
Hotel Spotlight: Saseka Tented Camp
Perched on the seasonal Monwana River, Saseka Tented Camp is one of the most sought-after luxury safari destinations in the Greater Kruger Park area. “Saseka” means “beautiful” in the local Tsonga language, and everything here—from the tented suites to the relaxed atmosphere, food, and personal service—is just that.
Photos courtesy of Saseka Tented Camp
The lodge has a striking layout, finding a superb balance between cutting-edge and classical while still feeling connected to the outside environment. The nine Tented Suites, with elevated views of the riverbed, are ultra-spacious safari tents on permanent foundations. Glass doors open onto an expansive private deck with pool, sun loungers, and deck chairs. In a private corner, you’ll find an outdoor shower with bush views.
Photo courtesy of the Garretts
Days 6-8
Safari Days
These days were spent simply taking in the safari experience, where no two days are the same and each moment teems with something memorable.
A day in the massive Thornybush Reserve starts as dawn breaks over the African bushveld. After an early morning wake-up call (a necessity on safari to ensure peak game viewing), coffee, tea, and rusks are served on the main deck. Shortly thereafter, it’s time to depart in a Land Cruiser with experienced rangers and trackers, whose extensive bush knowledge is invaluable. These drives are undertaken at the times best suited for game viewing. Sometimes, guests are invited out of the vehicle to see tracks, examine plants, and follow spoor.
The afternoon game drive is preceded by high tea and extends into the evening to view seldom seen nocturnal species by torchlight.
As a general rule on safari, you’ll be invited to join an early morning and late afternoon excursion. You are in no way obligated to join both of these daily activities, so if you’d like a day to sleep in and join the afternoon activity later (or vice versa), you are of course welcome to do so! Both the morning and afternoon safari activities will also include a scenic stop for a half hour for light refreshments and a chance to stretch your legs.
Day 9
Mozambique
After checking out of the Saseka Tented Camp, Karen and Mike were transferred to the airport for their onward travels to Mozambique. After a couple of short flights, they were transferred to the Santorini Mozambique in the Bazaruto Archipelago to settle in and unwind.
Covering 510 square miles, the Bazaruto Archipelago is set inside a stunning marine environment that provides unique aquatic and terrestrial habitats. The four main islands are formed of pale, sloping sand beaches dipping gently into exquisite, azure-colored waters. Swim with dolphins, experience the annual humpback whale migration, sail on traditional dhows, dive impressive coral walls, and snorkel to spot endangered Dugongs. This pristine national park is an aquatic wonderland whose Robinson Crusoe-esque islands are some of the Indian Ocean’s most picturesque.
Hotel Spotlight: Santorini Mozambique
The Santorini Mozambique is simply a sanctuary of laidback luxury. Elevated on the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay, it astounds with seemingly endless archipelago views from every angle. The hotel’s sprawling villas are nestled amidst coconut trees, with an oasis-like feel. This unspoiled patch of paradise is positioned above a long stretch of beach strewn with colorful seashells and warm, gentle waters. Experience the charm of Greek-inspired architecture mixed with the wild beauty of Africa and the Indian Ocean.
Photos courtesy of Santorini Mozambique
Along with snorkeling and dhow sailings, guests here can enjoy exclusive boat charters, SUP boarding, kayaking, scenic helicopter flights, scuba diving, horseback riding, and more. The onsite spa and yoga sessions offer a restorative rhythm. Families are also welcomed with open arms.
The dining here is fresh, wholesome, and seasonal, celebrating the ingredients from the hotel’s organic garden, local fishermen, and the surrounding region.
Mike and Karen stayed in the Magaruque Suite, charming with its sea views and elevated entrance. This romantic hideout in the Main Villa enjoys views of Magaruque Island, a luxury king-sized bed, a private balcony, and an en-suite bathroom.
Days 10 & 11
Mozambique
Taking advantage of their incredible surroundings, Karen and Mike spent these days at their leisure at Santorini Mozambique.
Photo courtesy of the Garretts
Day 12
Mozambique
For their final day on their great African adventure, Mike and Karen set off on a snorkeling excursion to Magaruque Island.
Prior to Mozambican independence, Magaruque was known as Ilha Santa Isabel and was the first island to break away from the mainland sand-spit peninsula created by the Save River. It is smaller than its neighbors in the archipelago and is conveniently located closest to Vilanculos, with its own reef. It is a haven for snorkelers and is also home to a small population attracted by its fertile fishing grounds along the deep-sea channel.
The archipelago is also rich in birdlife, including greater and lesser flamingos, great white and pink-backed pelicans, and five Kingfisher species. Magaruque Island in particular provides one of the best opportunities to see flamingos.
This private snorkeling trip on one of Santorini’s boats included a picnic lunch, refreshments aplenty, and an optional stop at Pansy Island to extend the day.
Day 13
Departure Day
After a simply sublime exploration of South Africa and Mozambique, the Garretts began their onward travels home, arriving back in the United States the following day.
To Go Away on an African adventure with Exeter Safaris, contact us. We will work with our partners on the ground to create a personalized itinerary to suit your travel wishes and energy levels.