A Roaring Success: Recap of Leopard’s 5th Birthday Celebration

Earlier this month, clients, friends and business partners joined us at my home in Johannesburg to celebrate our 5th birthday. It was a gorgeous spring day and it was such a pleasure and an honour to mark this significant milestone surrounded by our favourite people. Not everyone could be there, since most of our clients live far from Africa. But we remembered all of our valued clients as we celebrated our resilience and success in this 5 year journey. 

I told Leopard’s origin story at the party, and would like to retell it here. In August 2019, I left my well-paid corporate job to start a travel company. Everyone will remember that in April 2020 the world shut down at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Tourism came to a grinding halt as people could’nt travel into or out of South Africa (and most other countries) for months on end. We survived by the skin of our teeth, and am thankful we did. I am grateful to the locals, my friends and especially the French expats living in Johannesburg, who booked their regional travel through Leopard during this tough time. 

Now in 2024, I am very proud to say Leopard is a thriving business. The entire Leopard team was present so we could celebrate our joint success (except for Marlene who is permanently based in France). Jess, Daphnée, Helen, Elise, Hailey-Rose, Marlene, Caitlin, Pilar and JJ, thank you so much for the incredible work you do every day to ensure that our clients have the holiday of their lifetime. You make every day a lot of fun, and my job so much easier.

Leopard offered holidays to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique when it started in 2019. We have now expanded to 15 countries in southern and eastern Africa, offering a wide variety of holidays. These range from trekking to see gorillas or chimps, photographing the Great Migration, searching for lemurs in Madagascar, doing a walking safari in Zambia, or relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, Zanzibar, Mauritius or the Bazaruto Archipelago. It’s really quite something to take some time to look back at where we started and see how far we have come, with over 1,100 clients having travelled with us to date. Cheers to the next 5 years (and many more after that) of planning exquisite African holidays for our valued clients! 

True to our company values, we used the services of many small businesses to help make the party a success. A special thank you to all of them for their amazing energy and contributions:

Maskandi Band – Qadasi & Maqhinga, 072 566 4159  
Lamb spit braai – Sloane’s Butchery
Salads and desserts – Christine Serre 063 032 3010
Photography – Ant McDonald
Bread – Linden Loaves
Cheese – Fabienne 084 911 2398
Hand crafted sugar spoons – Kayz Woodwork 067 464 0402
Gifts – Honest Chocolate

Happy travelling,
Diana

For more photos, visit our Facebook albums here and here.

A journey through paradise: discovering Africa’s islands

“You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first, and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius.” – Mark Twain, “Following the Equator” (1897).

While Mauritius is undeniably heavenly, so is each of Africa’s Indian Ocean islands highlighted below. Each offers a diverse and enchanting array of experiences. Each has a unique charm. From the luxurious beaches of Mauritius and Seychelles to the cultural richness of Zanzibar, the biodiversity of Madagascar, and the tranquil beauty of the Bazaruto Islands, we love helping you plan unforgettable moments in Africa.

Mauritius
Mauritius is a favourite of both honeymoon couples and families. The island’s natural beauty is well known, from the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain to the multicoloured dunes of Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earths. 

The warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect to dive or snorkel in, while hiking trails through the Black River Gorges National Park lead you to waterfalls, beautiful views and encounters with rare bird species, like the pink pigeon or Mauritius parakeet.

Beyond its landscapes, Mauritius is a melting pot of culture with Indian, African, Chinese, and French influences. This blend is reflected in the island’s diverse cuisine, where flavours of curry, seafood, and French pastries coexist harmoniously. One of the stops on a tour of the island’s verdant tea plantations takes you to Bois Cheri tea factory, the oldest tea producer in Mauritius. Here, you can visit the Bois Cheri Museum, have lunch and sample teas, including black and green teas, to those flavoured with coconut or cardamom.

Whatever you choose to do, from unwinding on the beach, watching dolphins glide by from the bow of a boat, quad biking, ziplining near waterfalls at La Vallée des Couleurs, or playing golf on courses like Ile aux Cerfs and Paradis Golf Club, Mauritius offers something for everyone. 

Seychelles

With 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an immaculate tropical paradise offering luxurious seclusion. Anse Source d’Argent, on La Digue, is often hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches with its iconic granite boulders and soft, powdery sand. Mahé also has gorgeous beaches such as Anse Royale and Petite Anse.

Seychelles is also a sanctuary for wildlife, home to rare species found nowhere else on Earth. The Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is inhabited by giant tortoises. At the same time, the Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island harbours the famous Coco de Mer palm with its enormous, suggestively shaped seeds. Scuba diving around the outer islands will give you the opportunity to encounter sharks, rays, and dolphins.

For travellers seeking luxurious seclusion, Seychelles offers an array of exclusive resorts where privacy is paramount. Whether you stay in a beachfront villa or a private island retreat, the focus is on personalised service and serene surroundings, making Seychelles an ideal destination for honeymooners. 

Zanzibar

Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, is also known as the “Spice Island” and is steeped in history and cultural richness. The archipelago off the coast of Tanzania offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Persian influences, most vividly experienced in Stone Town. Wandering through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter ancient mosques, bustling markets, and the famous Zanzibari doors with intricate carvings. 

Zanzibar’s beaches, such as those in Nungwi and Kendwa, are equally captivating, with their ivory-coloured sands and azure waters. The island’s surrounding ocean invites you to snorkel, scuba dive, or enjoy a sailing trip on a traditional dhow. (There’s also excellent diving and snorkelling off the coast of nearby Mnemba Island).

There’s also no shortage of activities, from spice tours to the turtle sanctuary, exploring the mangrove forests in kayaks near Chwaka Bay or visiting Kizimkazi in southern Zanzibar, a prime location for dolphin encounters. The food is also delicious, with coconut-infused seafood stews and freshly caught, spiced grilled fish being a few of the many options.

Zanzibar offers an enriching blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure, making it a versatile destination and the perfect add-on to a safari in the Serengeti.

Madagascar
Madagascar stands out for its extraordinary biodiversity and unique landscapes. The island is home to species found nowhere else on Earth, including lemurs, the fossa and unique chameleon species. 

If you visit the eastern coastal strip, you’ll find the island of Île Sainte-Marie, and the biodiverse Masoala National Park, which opens onto warm, coral-rich waters. We suggest spending a week or more at Masoala Forest Lodge. This lodge provides a unique and immersive natural experience and is the perfect place to enjoy the forest, walk to search out lemurs and go snorkelling and kayaking. You can drive to Andasibe from Tana, but you’ll need to fly from Tana to Ile Sainte Marie or Masoala.

If you want a more luxurious experience of Madagascar, its northern islands (like Nosy Be) are better suited. You can enjoy pristine beaches, luxurious resorts and excellent diving, surrounded by Madagascar’s unique wildlife and culture.

Bazaruto Islands
The Bazaruto Archipelago, off the coast of Mozambique, provides a retreat from the hustle and bustle of more commercialised islands and is ideal for families or a romantic getaway.

From the nearby Vilanculos and on Bazaruto Island, you can enjoy activities like sailing on a traditional dhow, horse riding or taking a boat to secluded beaches where you can picnic and swim. In the right season you could even watch turtles lay eggs or hatchlings scuttle to the ocean.

The islands are relatively undeveloped, offering a peaceful retreat where you can disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in nature. This unspoiled haven has warm waters, coral reefs brimming with colourful fish, serene beaches, inland freshwater lakes, and towering dunes. The Bazaruto Archipelago is also perfect for water-based activities such as snorkelling, diving, and deep-sea fishing. 

Whether you visit Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Madagascar, or Bazaruto, Africa’s Indian Ocean islands offer diverse experiences, each with its beauty and appeal. With our expertise and on-the-ground knowledge, we can work with you to develop a bespoke, tailor-made itinerary that will fulfil your island holiday desires.

Happy island hopping,
The Leopard Team

P.S. Here are some of our brand new videos about these Indian Ocean Islands and how they compare. 

7 Thrilling and Luxurious Honeymoon Activities in Southern Africa

A luxurious honeymoon in Africa offers more than just exotic cuisine and fine wine in beautiful settings. Africa’s richness spans incredible wildlife, vibrant cultures, and landscapes and beaches that beckon. From unwinding with gourmet meals and cultural experiences to embarking on thrilling adventures, a honeymoon in Africa can be as tranquil or exhilarating as you desire.

Imagine coming face to face with a family of mountain gorillas and feeling an extraordinary connection as you observe them in their natural habitat. Picture yourself tracking cheetah on foot or snorkelling with whale sharks in warm, tropical waters. Beyond wildlife, the possibilities for honeymoon adventures under the African sun are endless. Try skydiving and sidecar trips or ocean escapades, hot-air balloon rides, and bungee jumping.

Here are seven activities that range from gentle excitement to adrenaline-fuelled adventure, ensuring unforgettable memories on your African honeymoon.

1. Zip lining

Cape Canopy Tours, situated in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve near Cape Town, provides a wonderful half-day out in nature. You’ll zip between mountain peaks, where eagles soar, in a spectacularly beautiful setting. Cape fynbos clings to the mountainside and the sound of the river below carries through the canyon. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the mountain together.

Safety tip: Helmet, gloves and harnesses are all provided, all you need to do is follow the instructor’s safety guidelines.

2. Snorkelling with whale sharks

Slipping off the side of the boat into the warm Indian Ocean with your partner and seeing the spotted back of a whale shark shimmering in the sunlight can fill you with a sense of awe and wonder. Their colossal, yet graceful, bodies move with calm purpose and they exude an air of tranquillity. 

There are various places off the coast of Africa where you could encounter these gentle filter-feeders.  These include Tofo or the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique, Nosy Be island off the coast of Madagascar and Mafia Island (about a 30-minute flight south of Zanzibar), off the coast of Tanzania.

Safety tip: Stay close to your guide and avoid touching the whale sharks.

3. Walking safari

What we love about walking safaris is the immersive experience in nature, feeling the ground under your boots, noticing a bird as it flits from tree to tree and watching and listening carefully to everything in your surroundings. You feel at one with nature, as your guide leads you to what could possibly be an extraordinary experience. You’ll leave with a sense of wonder and gratitude for having an experience of this kind in the wild.

Safety tips: 

• Walk in a single file behind your armed tracker.
• Keep quiet so that the tracker can listen to the surrounding sounds (and so you don’t carelessly frighten away animals).
• Always go with experienced guides, who are familiar with the area and its animals and follow the instructions your guide shares with you.

4. Helicopter flight over Victoria Falls

Imagine soaring high above one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, as a helicopter whisks you away on an unforgettable aerial adventure over Victoria Falls, which separates Zimbabwe and Zambia. From this unrivalled vantage point you’ll witness the beauty of the cascading waters that stretch nearly two kilometres wide. As the helicopter cuts through the air, you may catch a glimpse of rainbow-hued mist beneath. It’s an intimate and wondrous experience that can leave you and your partner feeling like National Geographic adventurers.

Safety tip: Wear your seatbelt and the headset that’s provided. Helicopters are noisy, so to be able to communicate with your pilot and fellow passengers you’ll need to have your headset on.

5. Shark cage diving

While shark cage diving can sound scary, if you keep your body inside the cage you’re quite safe. South Africa’s sharks have been featured on many documentary programmes and there are a number of operators near Cape Town as well as in Mossel Bay and Algoa Bay. 

This thrilling experience will see you kit up with wetsuits and head out on the boat into deeper water. From Gansbaai you’ll head towards the underwater channel known as ‘Shark Alley,’ a stretch of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, home to massive colonies of Cape fur seals. Similarly in False Bay you’ll head towards Seal Island where there’s a greater chance of encountering sharks.

While this isn’t everyone’s idea of a romantic outing, you and your new husband, or wife, will have plenty of exciting stories to recount.

Safety tip: Keep your body parts within the cage at all times and follow the instructions of the professionals on board.

6. Hot-air balloon flight

For those that don’t need that level of adventure, a hot-air balloon ride is an incredibly romantic and less adrenaline-fuelled way of taking in the world from above.The perfect honeymoon adventure. Whether you chose to drift serenely over the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, in Namibia, or the vast plains of the Serengeti during the Great Migration it’ll be an experience to remember.

You’ll lift off at sunrise and float gently, gaining altitude above the land as it awakes. Watch as the rising sun casts a golden glow over red dunes or illuminates the spectacle of wildebeest and zebra herds below. This is a unique and intimate perspective that few get to experience.

Safety tips: 

• Pay attention to the pilot’s safety briefing and explanation on the proper procedures for boarding and landing.
• Keep your arms and hands inside the basket at all times and avoid leaning over the edge.

7. Gorilla trekking

Whether you choose to trek to see mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda; Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda or seek an encounter with western lowland gorillas in Odzala National Park in the Congo it’ll be an experience that will stay with you indefinitely. 

Once you’ve found a gorilla family, you’ll have up to an hour to spend watching the gorillas interact, play, and forage among the dense foliage. It’s awe-inspiring to be in the presence of an imposing silverback watching protectively over his family. Seeing fluffy black baby gorillas tumble and play, or cling to their mothers as they stare at you in curiosity, is also something you’ll never forget.

Safety tip: Maintain a 7-metre distance and avoid direct eye contact to prevent stressing them.

Leopard’s founder and director Diana Granoux had this to say about her encounter with gorillas, “What makes the experience so unique is that you are transported to another world as you become part of the gorilla family for a short time. You are there on their terms. They can always choose to walk away, and they walk MUCH faster through the forest than humans can. I think a gorilla trek is the perfect compliment to a traditional African safari where you will see our other iconic fauna – lion, elephant, leopard, rhino – but always from behind a physical barrier because these animals are just too dangerous to get close to on foot. I cannot find the right words to describe the experience of seeing the gorillas in such close proximity, except perhaps awe-inspiring.” You can read her full account here.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S. Whatever your tolerance for excitement is, we always recommend skilled tour operators with exemplary safety track records.

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Rediscovering Kruger: from childhood memories to adult awe

Once a month for the next few months, you’ll hear from some of the vibrant women who make up the Leopard team, about their favourite holiday experiences in Africa. I hope that you’ll get to know the team a bit better through these personal accounts and also appreciate their passion for Africa and its diversity. Each Leopardess has her own special interests and we draw on each of these in order to help plan absolutely detailed and tailor-made trips to Africa for our clients.

– Diana

I’ve had the privilege of visiting the Kruger National Park, which the BBC describes as ‘the crown jewel of South Africa’s game parks’, since I was a small child. Each journey has brought with it breathtaking experiences and many memorable moments. One of the first memories I have of the Kruger is standing around the fire with my family, enjoying the warmth, roasting marshmallows and laughing together. We were camping and my parents were telling my brother and I stories about my Pa (my mom’s dad) who had a deep love for the Kruger and never failed to make a trip there exciting and fun. 

One of the stories that my parents would often talk about involved Pa bolting into the ablutions when a pride of lions, that were on the boundary of the fence next to his bungalow, grew a little restless. When my uncle found him he was standing in the bathroom, shaking. Another man (still in his sleeping bag and with his tent, as he had also fled with fright) was laughing hysterically at Pa, as he had never seen an old man run so fast. 

On another occasion, as they were leaving Kruger, Pa was bemoaning the fact that they hadn’t seen a leopard. While he was still talking, he drove around a bed and spotted a leopard on the side of the road! Pa was so thrilled that he hooted to alert my aunt and uncle who were in the vehicle behind. Naturally, the leopard sighting was short-lived.   

As I’ve grown up, I’ve learned to appreciate the Kruger even more. The surreal quiet and calm that it brings invites you to slow down, breathe and be in the moment. Coming from the city of Johannesburg, where the noise of the highway is ever-present, and everything feels rushed, this is a welcome experience. It feels as if you are released from the pressures of life and it’s a place where peace and joy start to rise.

In addition to the tranquility, Kruger has provided me with incredible wildlife sightings. The very reason most of us visit this vast park is to encounter majestic African animals in the wild. As you drive through the park, anticipation builds as you look out for a herd of elephant, the big cats, giraffe, zebra, antelope, and birds of prey. It feels like the list of opportunities is endless and each sighting brings with it a great sense of awe and respect for nature. During my last trip to Kruger, I was lucky enough to see the Big Five.

In particular, I’ll never forget encountering a leopard. We were on an evening game drive, and the air was crisp. With night falling, there was a sense of mystery as we rolled along the sandy jeep track. Our guide informed us that there had been a leopard sighting. I hadn’t seen a leopard since I was a child! I was filled with eager, yet cautious expectations wondering if she’d still be there when we arrived. She was. We watched in awe as she padded through the bush along the riverbank with typical feline grace. I was left feeling grateful and full of wonder – what an honour it was to be among these glorious creatures. 

With all that it has to offer, I believe that the Kruger is a bucket-list destination and, if you haven’t visited before, I highly recommend it for your next holiday – you won’t regret it. – Caitlin Sidebottom (Leopard’s Sales & Customer Support Manager)

Happy Travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S. Let us know if you’d like to explore the wonders of the African bush (or if you’ve been on safari before, where you’d love to visit next). We love hearing from you.

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Heroes of the Wild: Celebrating World Ranger Day with Inspiring Stories

World Ranger Day falls on 31 July each year, both honouring rangers who have been injured or killed in the line of duty and celebrating the ongoing efforts of rangers to protect Earth’s natural treasures. Below are some inspiring stories from four exceptional rangers who dedicate their lives to conservation. Diana has personally been guided by three, while the fourth, Precious Malapane works as both a ranger and a trainer at the K9 Unit of the Southern African Wildlife College, work supported by Leopard.

You’ll read about experiences as diverse as being part of The Ruaha Carnivore Project (RCP) to help protect lions and other wildlife in Tanzania to gorilla trekking in the rainforests of Rwanda, protecting lemurs in Madagascar, to working with dogs to track poachers in South Africa.

Hamza Visram: Head Guide and Guide Trainer, Elewana Collection, Tanzania 

What is the best part of your job as a guide? 
“Sharing my knowledge of the environment and its creatures with guests and guides.”

What is one challenge that you face as a guide? 
“Making every guest happy because you encounter people with different interests.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share? 
“In the Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania, there are still very remote areas. One such place is Usangu Expedition Camp, on the edge of the wetlands, where I worked for a season.

This area was severely affected by poaching, particularly fishing in the Ruaha River and game meat poaching. The poaching drove animals away to the point that if they heard or saw a vehicle, they would run. We set up camera traps and managed to collar one lioness and three big male lions to track their movements and interactions. This conservation project was highly productive, helping us understand the lions’ movements and territory overlaps. We involved guests in setting up the camera traps, and at the end of their stay, we retrieved the photos together.

Previously, the source of the Ruaha River was being farmed for rice, which reduced the drinking water available for animals during the dry season. Now, it has been rewilded. If you visit, you’ll see herds of sable antelope, roan antelope, topi, and eland, in numbers similar to the migration in the Serengeti. It’s an amazing place.”

What is the funniest question a guest has asked you? 
“I was once asked if elephants eat meat.”

Jean Marie Twambaze: Tour Guide, Rwanda 

What is the best part of your job as a guide? 
“I take travellers to different parks in Rwanda, such as Volcanoes, Akagera and Nyungwe National Parks. I love meeting people from different cultures, showing them the best of Rwanda and sharing my country’s conservation success stories. I love learning from people of different cultures too.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share?
“Yes, seeing the mountain gorilla population rise due to conservation efforts (by both the government and its partners) and seeing communities around parks developing and changing their mindset towards wildlife and parks. The communities’ involvement is just amazing.”

What is one challenge that you face as a guide?
“Guiding is fun but can be challenging sometimes. I try to set the correct expectations and this helps. However, I meet visitors who arrive with incorrect information and some of them are unwilling to adapt to have realistic expectations. Managing that situation can be challenging, but I always try to turn it into a positive experience.”

What is the funniest or strangest question a guest has asked you?
 “Mountain gorilla babies are so cute and everyone would love to touch them, but of course this is not allowed. A traveller once asked if she could help a mother gorilla babysit her baby. That was both funny and strange.”

Herina Randrianarisoa: Guide in Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar 

What is the best part of your job as a guide? 
“My favourite part of guiding is sharing Madagascar’s rich fauna and flora with the world.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share? 
“The forest (and its creatures) needs to be protected because there are many benefits to protecting it.” An example of this was that earlier this year, critically endangered greater bamboo lemurs were moved from Ivato to Ranomafana National Park, to help protect them and ensure their survival.

What is one challenge that you face as a ranger? 
“The COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2022 was the most challenging period for me.”

What is the funniest or strangest question a guest has asked you? 
“A guest once asked, ‘Have you seen a lemur meeting before?”

Precious Malapane: K9 Unit Deployment Manager and Trainer, Southern African Wildlife College 

What is the best part of your job as a ranger?
 “Being the eyes and ears of nature and working with K9s to protect wildlife.

In the past, when we came across tracks of suspects, we had to follow them visually, which took much longer. Now, we can use the dogs to find suspects, sometimes before the end of the day. When we find suspects, we give them the run of their life. We chase them, and they drop their backpacks as they flee.

To explain further, first, the line dogs go with a ranger and follow the tracks. When we’re about an hour behind the suspect, we call in the helicopter with the pack dogs – up to six dogs can fit in the helicopter at a time. The pack dogs then run free and chase down the suspect while we keep an eye on them from the helicopter. It’s a Big 5 game area, and by keeping the helicopter close, we can deter other animals from interfering with the dogs. When the dogs catch up to the suspect, we land, take charge of the situation, and make the arrest.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share? 
“Using K9s has reduced violent confrontations with poachers, saving lives on both sides. A life cannot be bought, it’s something that God gives and once it’s taken you can’t get it back. Using the dogs has helped protect both the rangers and the suspects’ lives.”

What is one challenge that you face as a ranger?
“Facing gender biases and dangerous wildlife encounters are significant challenges. As a woman, some men make you feel like you don’t know what you’re doing. We need support from the male rangers. The only thing that makes us different is our body structure. We can do the same hours and cover the same kilometres without a problem. 

Another challenge is that we do get charged by animals. I was with a training group and a dog and we were charged by a bull elephant. I managed to communicate with the elephant with body language, raising my hands and shouting. Thankfully, he moved on and fortunately no one was harmed in these incidents.”

What is the funniest or strangest moment you’ve experienced while working with the dogs? 
“Training puppies can be funny. When you start training them at six months old, they speak a different language to us. But, when the dog understands what you want, it’s like a light switch coming on.”

The ranger and guides interviewed here are only a tiny representation of all those doing critical work to protect Africa’s incredible natural treasures. You can support rangers and conservation efforts in a number of ways: by visiting the areas, by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. 

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S.  We’d love to hear your thoughts on this newsletter. Share your feedback or questions with us!

P.S. When you travel with Leopard, a portion of your travel spend directly supports the K9 Dog Unit’s vital work. However, regardless of your travel destination in Africa, your visit helps support local economies and, when visiting conservation areas, the wildlife too.

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Unforgettable South African Journeys with the Leopard Team

Once a month for the next few months, you’ll hear from the vibrant women who make up the Leopard team, about their favourite holiday experiences in Africa. I hope that you’ll get to know the team a bit better through these personal accounts and also appreciate their passion for Africa and its diversity. Each Leopardess has her special interests and we draw on each of these to help plan absolutely detailed and tailor-made trips to Africa for our clients.
– Diana

Here’s Elise’s account of a few of her travel highlights in South Africa. 

When Diana asked me to write about my favourite African travel memory, it was tricky to narrow it down to one experience. As a result, I’ve summarised some highlights of one of my favourite African destinations. My own country, South Africa.

Perhaps you know parts of South Africa well, or perhaps you’ve never visited. However much, or little, of this –  the southernmost part of our large and beautiful continent – you’ve experienced, I hope my adventures will inspire you to explore and enjoy more of this vibrant and diverse country.

My favourite South African safari experience
For travellers from outside the continent, the desire to see a muscular lion – with jaws that can rival a steel gin trap and a mane that would make even Jennifer Aniston’s hairstylist jealous – comes as no surprise. Depictions of lions in literature and art date back thousands of years, across cultures. The oldest cave paintings of lions, painted between 13,000 and 30,000 BC, were discovered in the Chauvet Cave and Lascaux in France’s Ardèche region and lions are depicted on vases in Iran, excavated near Lake Urmia, around 2,600 BC.

Although I’ve had the privilege of numerous lion sightings on safari and know why the lion is regarded as the king of the beasts, my favourite big cat has always been the leopard. This has nothing to do with the Leopard brand, but it is a happy coincidence. My appreciation for these elusive creatures, with lithe bodies and a distinctive coat, began with a school project on leopards I did when I was 11.

This brings me to my favourite safari experience. It took place in the  Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, which shares unfenced borders with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The area is known for its leopard sightings and although sightings are never guaranteed, it’s where I saw my first leopard. 

When we encountered the large male he was lying in a clearing below a tree, having scoffed the best part of an impala. The remainder of his dinner was wedged in a fork between branches above. He was panting heavily from the effort of it all – and probably from how hard his digestive system was working. After a few minutes, he got up and sauntered past our vehicle – a whisker’s breadth away. Then almost effortlessly, he hoisted his recently expanded frame up the tree trunk and back to his kill. The memory of watching him as night fell, with the nocturnal sounds of the bush filling our ears, is something I’ll always cherish.

My favourite South African seaside experiences
I’m an ocean lover. To me there’s nothing more relaxing than the sound of lapping waves, the smell of salt in the air and a view over the seemingly endlessly blue. My dad passed his love of the seaside on to me. We enjoyed family holidays along South Africa’s coastline, as well as in Greece, however, it’s in South Africa that my love of the ocean was born and continues to this day. 

As a child, we’d escape the Cape’s winters and visit KwaZulu-Natal and the northern parts of South Africa’s Wild Coast on holiday where we could enjoy the subtropical warmth of the air and mild temperature of the ocean. In summer, we’d head to Cape Town’s Clifton Fourth Beach. Here, I learned to love the icy yet refreshing water amid cries from hawkers selling ice cream and cool drinks, shouting, ‘water for your daughter,’ ‘ice to make you nice,’ and ‘a lolly to keep you jolly.’

This love of family time at the sea has been passed on to my daughters and we continue to explore South Africa’s coastline together, particularly in and around Cape Town. No matter how long I’ve lived here, there always seems to be a new cove or tidal pool waiting to be discovered. We’ve visited Instagrammable destinations further afield on the Cape West Coast too, like Port Owen’s marina or Kraalbaai, in the West Coast National Park. On a recent trip with my husband along the Garden Route, we spent time kayaking through Thesen Island’s waterways, in Knysna. Another first.

However, my most thrilling African marine experience has to be freediving the Sardine Run off the coast of Port St Johns, in the Eastern Cape. 

While slipping off the side of an inflatable rubber duck into the middle of the ocean heaving with marine life is not everyone’s cup of tea, it was mine. I’ve been fortunate enough to do so on more than one occasion, swimming with super pods of dolphins that stream by in what seems like a perpetual parade. We also had close encounters with humpback whales and watched from beneath the water in wonder as Cape gannets dropped from the sky to dive bomb tightly corralled bait balls of sardines.

If you prefer shallow calm water free of large predators, South Africa has more than its fair share of these. For instance, the famous penguin beach, Boulders, which was recently voted the second best beach in the world in the BeachAtlas Golden Beach Award 2024, is one of my favourite too and is certainly worth a visit.  – Elise (Travel Journalist, Content Strategist & Copywriter)

There are so many reasons to explore the wonders of South Africa – from its pristine beaches to being surrounded by nature in the bush. 

Discover vibrant cities and explore Winelands that boast world-class wines and cuisine. Immerse yourself in cultural experiences where you can meet people who practise ancient traditions passed down through generations, or take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes. There are also exquisite lodges and hotels where you can soak up the scenery and experience the very best service.

We’d love to help you experience the finest that Africa has to offer by sharing our local knowledge and helping you craft the perfect tailor-made itinerary.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

From Zimbabwe’s Kariba Dam to Mana Pools by canoe

Once a month for the next few months, you’ll hear from some of the vibrant women who make up the Leopard team, about their favourite holiday experiences in Africa. I hope that you’ll get to know the team a bit better through these personal accounts and also appreciate their passion for Africa and its diversity. Each Leopardess has her own special interests and we draw on each of these in order to help plan absolutely detailed and tailor-made trips to Africa for our clients.
– Diana

Here’s Helen’s account:
Africa is such a magnificent continent and it has so much to offer, that when Diana asked me to write about my favourite African destination, it was quite difficult. After running through all the incredible experiences I’ve had in Africa and beautiful places that I’ve visited,  I’ve settled on a destination situated at the roof of Zimbabwe: The Zambezi River and Mana Pools National Park. My father was the head of research at the Kariba Fisheries Institute and he embodied a profound and genuine love for nature, which he instilled into his daughters. His work gave us the opportunity to visit places that were not for the faint hearted. 

In November 1981, our farewell gift, before we left Zimbabwe for South Africa, was to join a group of young survival students accompanied by a Selous Scout, on a canoe trip down the Zambezi River from the Kariba Dam wall to Mana Pools. (The Selous Scouts was a unit of the Rhodesian Army that operated during the Rhodesian Bush War from 1973 until 1980 when the country was reconstituted as Zimbabwe.)

Dad had arranged for a tin boat with an outboard motor to assist the canoeists. We started our trip by following a footpath that  led  down the steep gorge from Kariba to the Zambezi River that had been carved out by elephants over many years. Although it was morning, it was already hot. I was not concerned about the heat, I was filled with nervous anticipation as we were completely immersed in the wild. 

The nights were spent in the open on the sandy bank of the Zambezi River. I lay in my sleeping bag on the first night, looking up and I was awestruck at the vastness of the African sky. The stars shimmering in the deep black were dancing to the song of the bush, to the rustle of the wind in the trees, to the water lapping on the shore, to the crickets chirping, to a distant hoot of an owl and even to the buzz of mosquitoes.

As we made our way down the great Zambezi River the following day, we began counting the crocodiles and hippos. The banks were alive with animals. On arrival in Mana Pools, we disembarked and set up camp on the riverbank. I remember thinking, “Wow!”! This is what the Garden of Eden must have looked like. The bush was teaming with animals, from a little dung beetle rolling his dung ball to the majestic, wrinkly, grey, giants, the elephants. The vegetation was pristine, and the only pathways were those made by the animals. Not many humans had passed through there due to the bush war. 

Our group of students was encouraged to forage for food on the land as this was part of the group’s survival training. We set off to scour the land for our dinner. We walked over the ridge formed by the riverbank and froze in our tracks. There were two round ears above the grass line. We spotted another pair and another. The Selous scout checked the direction of the wind and quickly got his gun ready. Crouching lower he gestured with his hands for us to be very quiet and retreat to the riverbank. We had stumbled upon a pride of lions. They are such magnificent, powerful beasts and command respect. We needed to get out of their territory as we didn’t want to be their dinner!

That night we all slept lightly. I thought I would be clever and place my sleeping bag near the campfire. I withdrew very fast as I heard and saw a few scorpions scuttling towards me. The heat of the fire had disturbed them and with their stings curled above their heads, they were hot footing it to my sleeping bag. My choice was lions or scorpions. I decided on neither and chose Dad!

While wild camping and travelling down the mighty Zambezi by canoe is not everyone’s idea of fun, I highly recommend visiting the floodplains of Mana pools. It is a tranquil sanctuary that offers an exquisite blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a  place where you can fully immerse yourself in nature and leave the troubles of the world behind. 

Today you have the option of staying in comfort, in one of the lodges, while still being able to immerse yourself in the wonderful wild of Mana Pools. Another benefit is that you won’t have to hunt for your food or fend off hungry predators. The lodges offer a luxurious experience where you can enjoy the sites and experiences of the wild in safety. – Helen du Toit (Leopard’s Finance and Operations Manager)

Happy travels,
The Leopard Team

P.S. If you’d like to experience the wonder of Mana Pools, reply to this email. We’d love to help you plan your next African getaway.

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5 Benefits of planning your December vacation now

There are several advantages to planning your December holiday travel now. Before we share those with you, here’s what one of our clients had to say about working with Leopard. 

“Thanks for the trip of a lifetime! There’s nothing like travel organised by a local who has actually visited the places. We are so glad we worked with Diana for our first big Africa trip — 3 weeks across Botswana, Namibia and South Africa for two couples. Diana listened carefully to our preferences and made thoughtful suggestions; she was respectful of our budget and delivered very good value for money; and she was responsive to our questions. Will definitely be back, and we wouldn’t consider working with anyone else.”

We love getting feedback from Leopard travellers. If you’re curious to read more experiences, you’ll find Leopard reviews on Trustpilot.

Benefits of planning your December vacation now

December might seem like a distant speck on the horizon. However, here are some reasons to plan your December getaway to Africa now. 

1. Greater availability of accommodation and avoiding last-minute stress
December is notorious for being a busy time with heightened travel demands, crowded attractions (particularly in cities, like Cape Town) and limited accommodation availability.  

Even in the African bush, where you’ll be free of crowds, it’s still busier than usual and you’ll want to have secured your ideal accommodation well ahead of time. Beautiful locations with beachfront access, like South Africa’s Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, and places like Mauritius, or Mozambique also get booked up ahead of the southern hemisphere’s summer. 

By planning early, you increase your chances of securing your preferred lodging, whether it’s a cosy bed and breakfast, a luxury resort, or a charming boutique hotel. You’ll also have access to a wider selection, including places that have unique amenities tailored to your needs.

2. Access to insider tips and recommendations
Planning your December break early gives you ample time to consider recommendations and insights from Leopard’s local travel experts. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems, uncovering off-the-beaten-path attractions, or learning about local customs and traditions, tapping into the collective wisdom of our seasoned travellers at Leopard will help enrich your holiday experience and provide valuable guidance for planning a memorable trip. Insider knowledge will without doubt enhance your itinerary and make your December break truly exceptional.

Perhaps you’re planning a family safari and you’re only aware of South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park. Leopard can help you consider other options, for example, Madikwe. This is a big-five safari destination with many family-friendly lodges. It’s also situated in a malaria-free area, which could give you that added peace of mind as a parent. Although the southern hemisphere’s winter months are considered the best game-viewing months, December’s green season has its appeal, with lots of migratory birds visiting the area and young animals that were born in the spring.

3. Securing access to popular attractions
If you’re planning to travel to Cape Town and dine in its culinary hotspots such as The Test Kitchen, La Colombe, Chef’s Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic, Fyn, Wolfgat, or The Pot Luck Club, it’s advisable to secure a booking well in advance.

It can be disappointing to travel to a destination only to find that you’re unable to enjoy the activities or experiences you had hoped for because you tried to book too late. Booking ahead for other activities like the Cape Canopy Tour or tickets for the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway will help ensure that your December holiday unfolds the way you hope.

4. Peace of mind and reduced stress
By taking care of your December break plans well in advance, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing everything is organised and under control. You can avoid the anxiety and stress associated with last-minute preparations, such as securing travel documents and permits or making rushed arrangements. 

Instead, you can approach your holiday with a sense of calm and relaxation, knowing that everything has been taken care of well ahead of time.

5. Extended anticipation
One of the often-overlooked benefits of early planning is the extended period of anticipation and excitement leading up to your December break. By laying the groundwork months in advance, you prolong the pre-trip anticipation, allowing you to savour the excitement, plan activities, and countdown the days with eager anticipation.

Studies have also shown that “those who are waiting to go on a holiday are much happier with their life as a whole, experience less negative or unpleasant feelings and thus enjoy an overall net positive effect or pleasant feelings.” 

You probably didn’t need scientific research to verify this, as you know that planning your next vacation gives you something wonderful to look forward to and time to dream about your upcoming holiday.

A curated travel experience
Whether you want the perfect honeymoon or family escape, or whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, road tripper, wildlife enthusiast, wine connoisseur, trendsetter, or interested in social impact, Leopard will curate your ideal travel experience.

By starting to dream and plan now, we can help you leisurely map out your itinerary, make informed decisions, and allow you to savour the anticipation of your upcoming holiday without the pressure of getting visas or permits in a last-minute rush.

One of the ways Leopard will help you is by removing the tedious need to hunt through impersonal booking sites, or scroll endlessly through Instagram in the hope of finding inspiration. We’ll inquire about your needs and desires and then present a carefully tailored travel plan that dots all the ‘i’s and crosses all the ‘t’s so that you can relax and enjoy a carefree holiday – exactly as you’re meant to.  

We’ll also be on hand 24/7 in the unlikely event that something does go wrong. Although these things seldom happen, we once had a family travelling with Leopard and one of the children accidentally left a backpack behind at the airport gate, when they flew home. Fortunately, we managed to locate it immediately, retrieve it and get it back to them in Europe. Had they booked through a large booking site, there may not have been anyone on hand to step in and take care of this. We like to think that, among the many other things like our local knowledge, it’s our personal touch that sets us apart. 

If you’d like to start dreaming out your December vacation together, do get in touch.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard team

P.S.  While we don’t recommend last-minute bookings if you do find yourself up a creek without a paddle because your travel plans have run aground and you need help to plan something new and exceptional, it’ll be our privilege to step in. Whatever the time frame, we’ll do our utmost to coordinate and deliver a tailor-made solution for you that’s seamless and stress free.

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Discovering Mozambique: A Family Adventure in Paradise

Once a month for the next few months, you’ll hear from the vibrant women who make up the Leopard team, about their favourite holiday experiences in Africa. I hope that you’ll get to know the team a bit better through these personal accounts and also appreciate their passion for Africa and its diversity. Each Leopardess has her own special interests and we draw on each of these in order to help plan absolutely detailed and tailor-made trips to Africa for our clients.
– Diana

Here’s Daphnée’s account of her many visits to Mozambique. 

I have a deep love for swimming in the ocean and exploring coral reefs. That’s one of the reasons I’ve decided to share my passion for my favourite African country, Mozambique, with you.

On our first family getaway to Mozambique, the most magical moment of our stay was our boat trip to Benguerra Island, located about 45 minutes from Vilanculos. On the way, we were lucky enough to spot a dozen dolphins cutting through the water effortlessly next to our boat. After anchoring in the archipelago, we went snorkeling at Two Mile Reef. While we marvelled at the multicolored fish and coral, a crew member prepared a private barbecue for us on a deserted beach in Benguerra. The crystal-clear water and sparkling white sand reminded me of time I’d spent in The Whitsundays islands, in Australia. It was simply heavenly, like a living postcard.

The beaches of this archipelago are also a favourite refuge for dugongs, a species of manatee renowned for its shyness and difficulty to observe. I was lucky enough to stay in two sublime lodges, Azura on Benguerra Island and Anantara on Bazaruto Island. At the end of my stay, I also enjoyed a short helicopter flight from Vilanculos Airport over the Bazaruto archipelago. We flew over shades of turquoise and white, watching the turtles from above, which looked like brown spots in this fantastically colourful sea. 

Our second family trip to Mozambique was shorter, as we simply had to renew our visas. We chose the Machangulo peninsula, just opposite Maputo and an hour’s flight from Johannesburg, which was logistically ideal. Besides being easily accessible from Joburg, I also recommend this pristine destination to nature lovers and snorkellers. You access Machangulo by boat from Maputo. The crossing takes 30 minutes and the welcome you receive on the other side is once again very warm, with singing and dancing. Mozambicans have a real sense of hospitality. They are such friendly people! 

While at Machangulo, we spent a whole day snorkelling in the shallow waters of the marine reserve on Inhaca Island, just off the peninsula. We saw a large number of lion fish, and the corals were intact, unlike those on Mauritius, for example, which are gradually losing their colour. Machangulo Lodge is perched on top of a dune, offering breathtaking views of the sea. We took long walks along the beaches, climbed the dunes and introduced the kids to bodyboarding right in front of the lodge – a perfect spot!

Our most recent trip to Mozambique was last Christmas. We set off from Johannesburg and rented a 4×4 equipped with two tents on the roof and camping gear. It was a totally different way of discovering the country! Our goal was to reach Vilanculos, the country’s little paradise, after covering almost 2000 km. We travelled with another family, so there were four adults and seven children in total. 

We had some great moments, like a trip on a dhow (a traditional boat) to snorkel and see seahorses. It was the first time I’d ever seen one! The children were also amazed. These strange little creatures live in seagrass meadows clinging to seaweed and remaining motionless!

We had a great time interacting with the locals, especially in the markets, hairdressers and small restaurants. Communication was sometimes difficult, because Mozambicans speak Portuguese and I’m not fluent in that language, but I learned a few words.

Mozambique is the seventh poorest country in the world. So, I strongly suggest that you and your children pack an extra, small suitcase to donate to the community. A great trip is not only about the comfort of your accommodation and the idyllic scenery, but also about sharing with the local communities and enjoying the smiles you receive. Mozambique is a blissful destination and will provide you with a family holiday experience that you’ll always remember.
– Daphnée

Happy travels,
Diana, Daphnée and the rest of the Leopard Team

P.S. Reply to this email if you’d like us to curate your perfect family holiday, romantic getaway or solo escape in Mozambique. Alternatively, let us know which African holiday destination you’d like us to write about next.

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Luxury In Namibia’s Deserts: Where Nature’s Canvas Comes Alive

From the otherworldly dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park, Namibia offers a unique and captivating experience. It’s Sub-Saharan Africa’s driest country and its desert landscapes offer a distinctly different experience from some of the more verdant landscapes of its neighbouring countries. While the wildlife is not as highly concentrated as in some other areas in Africa, you can see the big five and many desert-adapted species like the gemsbok, with its spear-like horns, and the endangered black rhino.

One of the highlights of a visit to Namibia is the opportunity to stay at the Wolwedans Desert Lodge, a luxurious oasis set in the NamibRand Nature Reserve. 

Here, guests are treated to unparalleled views of the surrounding desert, with its red dunes, mountains and endless sky. The lodge offers a range of activities designed to immerse visitors in the natural beauty of the desert, from guided nature walks and scenic drives to hot air balloon rides over the dunes. For those seeking relaxation, the lodge’s spa treatments include a Marula Oil Massage to help you unwind and rejuvenate in the tranquillity of the desert.

Situated in one of the naturally darkest areas of Earth that is still easily accessible, the NamibRand Nature Reserve is recognized as an International Dark Sky Reserve and boasts incredible night skies for you to marvel at.

Nearby, Little Kulala provides a base for exploring the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei. Situated on a private reserve bordering the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the lodge offers unrivalled access to some of the highest dunes in the world. 

You can embark on guided hikes to watch the sunrise over the dunes, or take a scenic drive to explore the starkly beautiful landscape. We always recommend an early morning hot air balloon ride. This memorable experience will give you a birds-eye view as the sunlight dances on the dunes below.

To the north west, Shipwreck Lodge offers a different but equally unforgettable experience. Located on the remote Skeleton Coast, this eco-friendly lodge is inspired by the shipwrecks that dot the coastline, blending seamlessly into its rugged surroundings. Here you can explore the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast on guided excursions, learning about the area’s history, geology and wildlife. 

If you want to enjoy a safari, Etosha National Park – Namibia’s premier wildlife destination – is ideal. Home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffe, the park is also a great destination to see the critically endangered black rhino. When visiting Etosha, you may have the  opportunity to witness the drama of predator-prey interactions at the park’s numerous waterholes. As the sun sets and temperatures cool, animals gather at these vital oases to quench their thirst, drawing predators. Even if you don’t see something quite so dramatic, photographers also love capturing iconic night time images at the floodlit water holes, for example, of a black rhino standing alert, or a giraffe bending down to drink.

The comfortable Anderson’s Camp is an ideal base from which to explore both Etosha and Ongava. It’s situated in the Ongava Game Reserve, on a water hole and borders the Etosha National Park. Here, you can enjoy guided day and night game drives to explore both parks’ diverse ecosystems.

In addition to these highlights, Namibia offers a wealth of other attractions for you to explore. From the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure activities abound, to the ancient rock art of Twyfelfontein, you’ll be sure to find many ways to fall in love with this vast and diverse country. 

Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, relaxation, or the chance to connect with nature, Namibia awaits.

Happy Travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S To get the smallest inkling of what the night skies in NamibRand Nature Reserve look like, watch this timelapse video taken in 2023, by DarkSky Advocate Jeff Dai — “The view showcases the Milky Way stretching from the Southern Cross to the Northern Cross. The Small Magellanic Cloud and Large Magellanic Cloud are visible on the southern horizon. You can also find the faint zodiacal light and dazzling planet Jupiter at dawn.”

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