The glorious ‘Rainbow Nation’ – South Africa – has been deemed one of the most highly sought-after destination wedding locations among couples looking to tie the knot. Getting married in stunning South Africa is a truly magical experience. There really is nowhere quite like it in the world – Trust us – that’s a tried, tested, and proven fact! Whether you’re looking to throw the grandest, glorious, gigantic, sweep-you-off-your-feet, fairytale-esque, all-the-trimmings, not-a-cent-spared South African destination wedding of the century, an intimate and romantic affair & celebration of true love with only your closest friends and family, or opt to skip all the wedding-related hassles & fuss entirely by eloping – the possibilities are beyond endless when it comes to planning and celebrating a destination wedding in South Africa.
The Sabi Sands Game Reserve and its nearby private reserves have been abuzz with excitement as three iconic leopard mothers give birth to their new offspring. Makhomsava, the Stone Drift female, and Mahetelelo are rearing the next generation of leopards, drawing in both rangers and visitors.
Makhomsava and Her Cubs – Northern Sabi Sands
Makhomsava, known for her fearless demeanour and unrivalled hunting abilities, has become a symbol of resilience in the Northern Sabi Sands. She recently introduced her two cubs to the world along a rocky outcrop, creating a tranquil and secure environment for their early days.
Photo by Jordan Delvecchio (@jordan_delveccs)
Makhomsava, ever vigilant, guarantees her cubs’ protection as they curiously explore their environment, revealing glimpses of their mother’s courageous personality. Rangers are hopeful that these cubs will carry on Makhomsava’s exceptional legacy, adding new chapters to her lineage’s rich history.
The Stone Drift Female’s Cubs – MalaMala Game Reserve
In MalaMala Game Reserve, the mysterious Stone Drift female has tucked her two cubs in a dense thicket beside the Sand River. This leopard, known for her stealth and resourcefulness, has picked an ideal position that provides plenty of prey and cover to defend her young.
Guests and rangers have been treated to charming glimpses of the cubs’ playful behaviours. Tumbling over each other in imaginary conflicts, they demonstrate the early stages of gaining the abilities required for survival. Their mother’s continual alertness serves as a reminder of the perils she encounters while guaranteeing her cubs’ survival, demonstrating her incredible maternal strength.
Mahetelelo and Her Cubs – Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Mahetelelo, a lioness with a stunning golden coat and a calm demeanour, has welcomed two pups into her family. Observers were privileged to watch her transferring her cubs between dens, including a heartwarming moment when she carefully cradled one in her jaws, demonstrating the mother-cub relationship.
The Ulusaba habitat, rich in prey and shelter, makes a perfect nursery for Mahetelelo’s cubs. These cubs are prepared to thrive in a setting as breathtaking as their mother’s majestic presence, adding to the region’s thriving leopard population.
A Hopeful Future for Leopards
The birth of these cubs in the Sabi Sands and surrounding reserves demonstrates the leopard population’s vitality and adaptability. Each mother, with her distinct characteristics and techniques, secures the survival of her lineage in an ever-changing wilderness.
For visitors and environmentalists, these encounters are not only a luxury, but also a reminder of the need of protecting these unique environments. Makhomsava, the Stone Drift female, and Mahetelelo rear their pups, embodying the tenacity and beauty of the African environment and providing hope for future generations.
Photo by Jordi Woerts of Maposa (@jwwlphoto) – Website: jordiwoerts.com
Maposa’s story is one of resilience, strength, and unwavering determination. Despite being blind in one eye, this remarkable lion carved out a name for himself as a true king of the wild. His journey began in 2016 when, as part of a young coalition, he defied the odds by challenging and defeating the experienced Trilogy coalition. However, life in the wild is never easy, and Maposa’s challenges were just beginning.
In 2018, after losing his coalition partner to injuries and being displaced by the Ross males, Maposa found himself alone—a daunting reality for any lion. Yet he persevered, adapting to his new circumstances with fierce determination to survive. Eventually, he bonded with the Monwana Pride, becoming their leader and protector, a role he fulfilled with grace and strength.
By 2024, a new threat emerged. The powerful Black Dam males began encroaching on Maposa’s territory, leading to a devastating confrontation that forced the Monwana Pride to retreat. In June 2024, Maposa was seen for the last time. His disappearance left a void not only in the pride but also in the hearts of those who had grown to admire and respect him.
By September, the Black Dam males had taken full control of the Monwana Pride, marking the end of an era. Despite this heartbreaking conclusion, Maposa’s legacy remains one of courage, determination, and adaptability. He was more than just a lion—he was a symbol of survival and strength, and his story touched everyone who followed his journey.
For those who had the privilege of seeing him in the wild, Mapoza wasn’t just a king of the savannah; he was an inspiration. His roar may no longer echo through Thornybush, but his spirit will live on forever in the stories we share and the memories we hold. Farewell, Maposa. You will always have a place in our hearts.
Photo by Jordi Woerts of Maposa (@jwwlphoto)
The 2024 reigning KING of African Safaris has officially been crowned, and it is none other than the one and only BOTSWANA! Every year a review is done to ultimately decide which country should wear the crown as Africa’s best safari country of the year. Safari-goers and experts from all over the globe were at the heart of these results. More than 4,000 of their reviews were analyzed in this detailed and comprehensive study. The analysis included reviews from expert travel journalists who have extensive safari experience across all of the countries covered by this survey. All that to say, this year’s coveted winner, claiming the number 1 spot as ‘Africa’s Best Safari Country of 2024’ is Southern Africa’s Premier Wildlife & Safari Destination and one of the most remarkable wilderness areas on earth – Botswana! Botswana is not only regarded as Africa’s premier wildlife-watching wilderness gems & widely acclaimed safari destinations on the African continent, but one of the most remarkable wilderness areas on earth.
Its safari time! While South Africa has no shortage of beautiful destinations to explore, going on an authentic safari in the unspoiled African bushveld should undoubtedly be at the top of every traveler’s bucket-list. A South African safari ticks all the right boxes if you’re looking to venture off the beaten track, explore the great outdoors, and experience the many thrills that only safari life can deliver.
A luxury safari in Africa is an experience like no other – its no surprise that going on a luxury safari getaway in the vast and gloriously diverse continent of Africa has fast become one of the most highly sought-after travel experiences amongst avid travellers, tourists, globe-trotting adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts across the globe. If you’re looking to combine adventure, romance, luxury, and exclusivity with phenomenal game viewing, vast unspoiled landscapes, the magic of the African bushveld, beautiful beaches, bucket-list worthy safari experiences, once-in-a-lifetime adventures, and so much more, Africa will undoubtedly exceed all your expectations as a luxury safari holiday destination. In a world where we can travel anywhere and do anything our heart desires, Africa steps up its game and offers us luxury we could only ever dream of.
A luxury safari isn’t just about the wildlife – it’s also about the opulent accommodations and personalised service that make your trip truly unforgettable. Here is just some of what you can expect from a luxury safari in Africa.
Often described as ‘a world in one country’, South Africa is the continent’s jack of all trades – It is one of those glorious countries that just have it all! Boasting a vast, varied, and beyond astonishing array of diverse landscapes that range from the most beautiful beaches and coastlines in the world, expansive savannahs, majestic mountains (including the globally acclaimed Table Mountain – one of the ‘7 Natural Wonders of the World’) and magnificent mountain ranges, vibrant and colourful cities, the captivating Cape Winelands, sensational secret spots, spectacular hidden gems, and of course the unspoiled, untouched, and untamed African bushveld – there’s a little bit of everything on the southern tip of Africa. Whether atop a mountain, beside a waterfall, or on a remote beach, the sunsets of South Africa are a testament to the country’s unparalleled beauty and the magic that occurs when the African sun bids farewell to another day. Here are some of the best places to see the sunset in South Africa.
Newlyweds looking to combine adventure, romance, breathtaking natural beaty, thrill, luxury, and exclusivity with phenomenal game viewing, vast unspoiled landscapes, the magic of the African bushveld, beautiful beaches, bucket-list worthy experiences, and so much more, look no further than AFRICA!
We’re often asked, which is the best country to visit for a honeymoon. We can firmly say, without a single once of doubt, that a honeymoon safari in East, Southern or South Africa should be high up on any newlywed couple’s list of honeymoon destinations.
While there is no shortage of romantic places and destinations around the world, very few can offer an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience like an African safari honeymoon – it is simply unmatched! Not to mention it will surpass and exceed your EVERY expectation! Regarded as one of the most highly sought-after honeymoon and top safari destinations in the world, Africa offers some of the most astonishing safari, wildlife, travel opportunities, and adventures on the planet. With more luxury, privacy, world-class wildlife sightings, and once-in-a-lifetime safari experiences than anywhere else on earth, you’re bound to fall head-over-heels in love with not only the sheer unmatched natural beauty of Africa in its purest form, but the wild, vivid, and untamed African bushveld and everything it has to offer.
We’re sure you’re wondering ‘Well, WHERE in Africa should I go on honeymoon?’. Lucky for you, we’ve tailor-made Africa honeymoons for thousands of newly-weds from across the globe! Here is our expert advice on what some of the top honeymoon destinations in Africa are.
Exchange your vows and say ‘I do’ in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town! Regarded as one of the top and most highly sought-after wedding destinations in the world, the glorious city of Cape Town has everything you could ever dream of and more.
With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture and atmosphere, and diverse range of destinations, Cape Town offers the perfect blend of romance and adventure for couples looking to tie the knot in a truly spectacular location. From its unbelievable array of hidden gems, magical secret spots, romantic hideaways, majestic mountains, beautiful sandy beaches, and picturesque fairy-tale like escapes to its vast and wonderful winelands, scenic vineyards, stunning gardens, unimaginable natural wonders, world-renowned landmarks, incredible attractions, and vibrant cosmopolitan city centre, it isn’t hard to understand why Cape Town has become one of the most sought-after and highly acclaimed wedding destinations in the world.
With something for every type of couple looking to experience an absolutely unforgettable wedding celebration with their nearest and dearest, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better destination wedding location than Cape Town – and that’s a promise!
