ROAR AFRICA

South African wines are stirring up a lot of excitement these days as more wine experts give rave reviews on their elegance, power, and value. Join us for an exclusive two-day private wine tour in the spectacular Western Cape conducted by Richard Hilton, ROAR AFRICA's resident wine expert. Richard has had nearly 20 years of experience in the wine world, learning the business from the ground up in France and in South Africa. He has picked and trod grapes, worked in cellars and bottling lines, pruned vines and marketed wines. Today he has his own winery in Stellenbosch, producing a limited selection of fine wines which he sells to top restaurants in Cape Town as well as exporting them to Europe and New Zealand. Fortunately for us, this means he can show us behind the scenes and there is almost no question concerning wine that he cannot answer.

Those passionate about health and awareness will love this special journey. Yoga in the South African bush and winelands is designed to reflect and harmonize with the rhythms and cycles of nature.

Days 1-3 (Safari): Spend three nights at the luxurious Londolozi Game Reserve where yoga is practiced daily amid an awesome spectacle of nature. In between sessions, you'll thrill to the sight of a magnificent array of wildlife in their natural habitat with two game drives daily. You'll stay at Varty Camp where the luxurious accommodations are raised off the ground beneath a cathedral of trees. Each room has a private swimming pool on a timber deck that overlooks the riverine bush. In addition to the daily yoga class (suitable for beginners or intermediates), guests may choose to enjoy a private session alongside the cool rush of the Sand River, while greeting the morning sun on the yoga deck or - for the truly adventurous - on a game drive. Massages are also available as is Pilates and a Cardiovascular Room where experts offer fitness sessions using unique workout routines inspired by animal agility.

Days 4-8 (Cape Town & Winelands): You'll continue your spiritual journey with three nights at the historic Steenberg Hotel, with its award-winning winery, challenging golf course, hikes, and spa treatments that do as much for the soul as for the body. The hotel is minutes from Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities on earth and full of fascinating history. ROAR AFRICA will arrange for you to visit the Cape of Good Hope, the famed Table Mountain, Robben Island (former prison-home of Nelson Mandela), Cape Town's vibrant Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, and much more.

This sample Food and Wine specialist tour includes multiple cooking, dining and cultural experiences in Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and on safari. It is a gastronomic extravaganza hosted by ROAR AFRICA specialist food and wine fundi, Richard Hilton. You will enjoy the wide variety of sights, activities and (of course) tastes that these areas have to offer. You will also participate in cooking classes and tastings covering a broad range of South African cuisine and culture and hosted in interesting and authentic locations.

Days 1-4 (Safari): Arrive in South Africa and connect directly to Kruger National Park. Kruger is a wildlife haven containing six eco-systems across almost 7,722m2 (20,000km2) and reportedly sustaining the most biodiversity of any game reserve on Earth. Approximately 2,000 species of plants, over 500 species of birds and nearly 150 species of mammals coexist in the game reserve making it the perfect place to witness the drama of life unfold on your wilderness safari. Early morning and evening game drives are complimented by bush breakfasts and cocktail sunsets.

Days 5-8 (Cape Town): Fly to "The Fairest Cape in the circumference of the world" (Sir Francis Drake, 1579), which offers dramatically different landscapes and experiences. Cape Town's Central Park is a 3,000ft (914 meter) mountain in the middle of the city. Nestled against it are 300-year-old vineyards and a cosmopolitan city and surrounding all this is a spectacular coastline with fantastic beaches. It is an adventure enthusiast's dream and a cultural and geographical wonder. Activities can include: soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches, climbing (or cable-car riding) up Table Mountain, visiting Cape Point, visiting the only penguin colony in Africa, diving with Great White sharks, a host of fine food and dining options, and the opportunity to give back (a philanthropic visit). Also, take time out to tour Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated) and - if you have any energy left - sample from Cape Town's renowned nightlife.

Days 9-10 (The Winelands): Welcome to the gastronomic center of Southern Africa. An hour from Cape Town you will find the second and third oldest European towns in South Africa: Stellenbosch (the center of South Africa's wine industry) and Paarl (home of the second largest granite outcrop in the world). The next valley is the beautiful Franschhoek valley ringed by majestic mountains. Historic Cape Dutch guesthouses and B&Bs are nestled among fragrant orchards. Enjoy fresh produce at open-air farmers' markets in charming, picturesque historical towns; rich culture; unique indigenous arts and crafts; fine cuisine and splendid wines to tantalize the most discerning palette.

Days 1-2 (Victoria Falls): The Local people call it "Mosi-oa-Tunya" - The Smoke that Thunders. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, there is a magic about Victoria Falls manifested in the towering column of spray, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss downstream and tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippo and crocodiles lurk. The 'Flight of Angels' provides a fabulous vista of the falls, the upstream river and its many islands. For the more adventurous there is microlighting with stunning views of the falls, bungee jumping 364ft (111 meters) into the gorge and rafting the Great Zambezi-the biggest commercially run rapids in the world. The Zambezi National Park is located across the river from where lion calls can often be heard at night and where elephants can be ridden on safari during the day.

Days 3-6 (Mozambique): Mozambicans are rebuilding their beautiful country after a troubled past. You'll find that a completely different Southern African experience awaits you as you bask in the sub-tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. There's plenty to see: stunning beaches and islands, a World Heritage site, charming colonial architecture and colorful local cultures. Visit Pemba on the south shore of the third largest bay in the world with turquoise seas, palm-fringed beaches, excellent diving, game fishing and bush drives. Alternatively, visit the island of Bazaruto - a little piece of paradise known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean". The impressive beauty of the coral reefs complements this subtropical ecosystem. Scuba dive, fish, explore or just relax at one of our chosen lodges.

Days 1-2 (Karkloof Wellness &Wildlife Retreat): Situated in KwaZulu-Natal's magnificent midlands, where the Umgeni and Karkloof rivers meet, is a landscape infused with cinematic splendor, mist-belt forests, grassland plains and towering dolerite plateaus. Together these form a breathtaking backdrop for the Karkloof Wildlife and Wellness Retreat. Unfailing luxury and impeccable international standards are enhanced with the big heart of African sensibility. Let time unfold slowly while you set your own pace and level of engagement. At Karkloof you have the opportunity to do exactly what you want, when you want. And this includes meals, spa treatments and game drives.

Days 3-5 (Fugitives Drift): Had one tried to dream up geography and topography for a clash between those two great empires, one could hardly have come up with more fantastic scenery than that which is found on and around the famous battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift. This spectacular and enormous property is a Natural Heritage Site. Enjoy walks and horse rides through the reserve to view the abundant game and birdlife or fishing the 12m (20km) frontage of the Buffalo River. The Lodge is situated on the site of the original Rattray homestead. Spacious, luxury en-suite cottages each have a private verandah affording views over the plains flanking the Buffalo River Gorge. Enjoy sundowners around a fire, under a canopy of Paperbarks, with magical Isandlwana looming on the skyline, and superb cuisine, a unique fusion of home and modern flavors, in the splendid atmosphere of a veritable museum of Zulu War memorabilia.

Days 6-8 (Victoria Falls): Guests are accommodated in nine luxurious suites, all with private decks overlooking the river. Your safari experience at this, 'the home of the elephants', will include on-site river activities as well as elephant-back safaris along the banks of the Zambezi River. Thorntree's close proximity to Victoria Falls means that a visit to see the 'Smoke that Thunders' is a must for every guest staying at the lodge. A number of activities can be undertaken. The 'Flight of Angels' provides a fabulous vista of the falls, the upstream river and its many islands and for the more adventurous there is micro-lighting with stunning views of the Falls. The Zambezi National Park is located across the river, and lion calls can often be heard at night. Top it all off with a game drive in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park.

Days 9-10 (Lion Sands River Lodge, Sabi Sand): River Lodge is the soul of Lion Sands and has been built on the banks of the Sabie River, positioned on a site with trees dating back over 800 years. Facing due east, the lodge catches the sun as it rises over the Kruger National Park. Hosted by a family of staff that make it feel like a true home away from home, the lodge is about spirit, warmth and nature. Here you are invited to relax and experience African hospitality at its finest. The public areas at River Lodge include a private indoor lounge and bar with fireplace, an outdoor safari lounge, 2 swimming pools (heated in winter), wooden viewing decks, a secluded bird hide, a magnificent River Island Deck built on the river, Lalamuka Health Spa & Gymnasium, curio shop and both indoor and open-air (Boma) dining areas.

Days 1-2 (Johannesburg - The Saxon): The magnificent five-star Saxon Hotel has witnessed history within its walls as it became home to Nelson Mandela after he was released from prison. It was during this time that he used the serene setting of Saxon to edit his autobiography "Long Walk to Freedom". Some of South Africa's most momentous events took place in Johannesburg and it is still, without a doubt, the most happening city in the country. Get a sense of the inspirational struggle for freedom at the amazing Apartheid Museum, as well as the Nelson Mandela Museum. A township tour is one of the best ways to get to grips with the real Johannesburg. Far removed from the urban jungle of Sandton, the townships are where many of the city's inhabitants reside. You will also witness the enormous township of SOWETO (South Western Township) - a collection of shantytowns, which in many ways is the authentic heart of the South African people. Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and others still own houses in this area.

Days 3-4 (Waterberg: Shambala Game Reserve): About an hour's drive from Johannesburg is Shambala Game Reserve - situated in the picturesque central region of the breathtaking Waterberg mountain range. This bushveld area is densely covered with indigenous trees and shrubs. The climate is sub-tropical and pleasantly temperate for most of the year. Situated in such an idyllic setting, Shambala Game Reserve truly epitomizes the description: "Paradise on Earth". Visitors, be warned, Shambala will steal your heart away for, once you have experienced the peace and tranquility of Shambala, you will vow to return again and again.

Days 5-6 (Sabi Sabi: Sabi Sand): Begin your day with a spectacular private charter flight from the Waterberg directly to Sabi Sabi (about 50 minutes). Deep in the African bushveld, within South Africa's famous Sabi Sand Reserve, something enchanting lies - in the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. This award winning reserve offers world-class standards in luxury accommodation, exceptional close wildlife encounters, personal service and delicious cuisine. A quick 10 minute flight will take you on to the next lodge.

Days 7-8 (Lion Sands 1933: Sabi Sand): Nestling on the banks of the Sabie River, 1933 at Lion Sands represents a secluded environment where comfort and relaxation are the order of the day. There are four spacious suites, each with their own private view of the Sabie River. The bathrooms are just as inviting, courtesy of their double vanity units, elegant bath and outdoor showers. The lodge's large windows, sliding doors and muted colors mirror the surrounding landscape and create a seamless, indoor-outdoor flow. Timber, thatch and screed flooring add earthy charm to the interior, where the decor is classic-contemporary.

1933 at Lion Sands strives to be a gracious home away from home - with a few added luxuries, including your own private chef and ranger, with the exclusive use of a 4x4 Land Rover for safari game drives.

What really sets 1933 at Lion Sands apart from any other safari lodge, is its prime setting on the canopied banks of the Sabie River. Here, amidst the idle chatter of Vervet Monkeys, colorful birdsong, peaceful naps and calls of the wild, the spirit of an African river runs through every guest's experience at the lodge. It is a communal, self-contained space with a smart-casual vibe - a place where absolute privacy is assured.

Day 9 (Cape Town - Cape Grace): Fly directly from safari to Cape Town where you will be met by ROAR AFRICA and taken to the renowned Cape Grace Hotel (frequented by Bill Clinton amongst others) - which will be your home for the next three days. The elegant hotel is located on its own quay at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront with the city, its harbor and the surrounding mountains, all visible from your private terrace. Take a stroll through the colorful Bo-Kaap area where the Cape Malay people (of East Asian origin) live. At Marco's African Place the food is as authentic as the live bands that spice things up. The Muslim people here keep strong traditions, and are friendly and approachable. Explore the inner city castle and other cultural delights unique to Cape Town.

Day 10 (Cape Town: Peninsula Tour): We then tour together to Cape Point along the Atlantic coastline to the Cape of Good Hope, first seen by a European in 1488 when Diaz sailed around it on his search for an ocean route to the East Indies. We will take a boat ride to Seal Island where approx 700 Cape Fur Seals have made their home. You will be advised to watch closely for possible sightings of whales and dolphins, which abound along this stretch of coast. From historical Hout Bay we then tour over Chapman's Peak* and towards Cape Boulders beach, home to the only colony of penguins in Africa. (*temporarily closed)

Day 11 (Cape Town: Robben Island Tour): No trip to the Cape is complete without taking a ferry across to Robben Island, former prison of Nelson Mandela. Upon our return you will have some time to shop and explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Here you will find music, live performances, plenty of restaurants, buskers, jazz musicians and sailors, all of whom converge here to play. Greenmarket Square and Heritage Square are both hubs of fun, with up-market eateries. Cobble-stoned and boasting beautiful architecture from yesteryear, both are a must-see during your remaining time here.

Days 12-13 (Cape Town: The Steenberg): An historic wine farm, on the foothills of the magnificent Stone Mountains, provides the setting for this gracious five star hotel, voted Best Luxury Hotel in South Africa (AA Accommodation Awards 2005). It is a beautiful destination combining the peace and serenity of exquisite accommodation amongst vineyards with an award winning winery and an 18-hole championship golf course. Ideally situated a mere 20 minutes from the centre of Cape Town.

After a night at the Steenberg Hotel, enjoy a truly touching cultural excursion with Uthando. Uthando South Africa (Love South Africa) is a non-profit organization which we support. Their mission is to raise funds to support a broad range of grass roots, community-based, sustainable, innovative and empowering projects with substantial and enduring value to the most destitute and marginalized. visit utandosa's website

Day 14 (Cape Town: Cable Car & Kirstenbosch Gardens): We will take the cable car up Table Mountain so that you can experience the incredible view as you stand on this global landmark. The beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens at the foot of Table Mountain, cover an area of 2.03m2 (5.28km2) much of this consisting of cultivated garden. The gardens are a celebration of South African flora - showcasing only indigenous South African plants. Fynbos, proteas, cycads and rolling lawns are intermingled with streams and ponds and well laid pathways for easy walking. A great variety of birds inhabit the gardens and the sweeping views from the upper slopes are spectacular. Whether for a casual stroll or a more strenuous walk - the gardens are a must-see when visiting Cape Town. In the evening, we will drive you out to the winelands where you will stay at the spectacular La Residence Hotel.

Days 15-16 (Victoria Falls Stanley Safari Lodge): With only 10 private cottages, this authentic lodge provides unmatched levels of personalized service. Bordering the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, with a view over the spray of the Victoria Falls in the distance, the exclusive Stanley Safari Lodge will take you back to the Africa of the 1920's. Located very close to the Falls, you can engage in a number of thrilling activities offered there and, for the very brave there is bungee jumping as well as whitewater rafting. For a more relaxing experience of the river, you could always opt for a tranquil boat cruise.

Cape Town Start in Cape Town with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from your luxurious home away from home, The Ellerman House. The Ellerman House is one of only two Relais & Chateaux hotels in Cape Town and one of only 14 purple shield hotels in the world. For 3 days you'll enjoy a Cape Peninsula tour, Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens and other activites without a care in the world as your ROAR AFRICA Guide takes care of everything and adjusts the schedule to your whim and the weather.

Cape Winelands On day 4 you'll be met by our wine specialist Richard Hilton who will drive you out to the winelands for a day of spectacular cuisine and world class wines and take you behind the scene where the public can not go. End the day nestled between towering mountains in the beautiful Cape winelands at La Residence. Set in the breath-taking Franschhoek, La Residence is a Tuscan-influenced Cape Dutch Farmhouse with more than a hint of Louis XV.

Sossusvlei, Namibia On day 5 you will fly to Windhoek in Namibia and then transfer to Little Kulala by private charter. Enjoy 2 nights at Little Kulala, a luxurious desert retreat, is situated in the private 37 000-hectare Kulala Wilderness Reserve - the gateway to Namibia's Sand Sea with its towering red dunes and clear starry skies. Guided drives and walks are also offered on the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve with incredible views, desert-adapted wildlife and plants. A balloon safari at extra cost offers a unique experience soaring silently above the desert before landing for a champagne breakfast.

Etosha, Namibia On day 7 you'll transfer to Little Ongava camp on the southern boundary of Etosha National Park. Little Ongava is built along the crest of a hill with wonderful views onto the plains below and is an ideal base from which to explore the country's premier wildlife destination. Accommodation comprises three spacious luxury units made of canvas, thatch and stone. Each unit has its own plunge pool, a sala, en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower and a view of the waterhole in front of the lodge.

North island, Seychelles Day 9: You're off to North Island in the Seychelles for 4 days of barefoot bliss. It is one of the 'inner' islands of the Seychelles that are often referred to as the most beautiful on Earth.

There are only 11 handcrafted guest villas on the entire island, each constructed to create a sensorial experience in surroundings of understated elegance. All the structures at North Island Lodge have been individually handcrafted to give it a unique atmosphere and distinct flavour of the Seychelles. Each villa has a second bedroom, creating the perfect space for children. All the villas are built directly on the eastern beach, a few steps away from the powder-soft sand.

This 6 night horse riding safari is an example of a rare specialist trip we've arranged outside of southern Africa and based on very specific parameters. This experience, created with Singita in East Africa's Serengeti (Tanzania), is a lot more than a riding safari. It is best suited to those in search of an exciting but soulful and spiritual experience in complete luxury and privacy.

You will not find a finer Equestrian Center in the African bush and offering all levels of riding and equipment. With your detailed profile Alison, the resident veterinarian and riding professional, will match horse and rider. Get ready for a life-changing experience moving between three incredible luxury camps in the private Grumeti reserve; teaming with wildlife but not with tourists.

Sasakwa Lodge: From Kilimanjaro to Sasakwa by private charter. The ROAR AFRICA healing holiday philosophy begins immediately. You'll recover, meet and get to know your horse, enjoy the spa, or perhaps indulge in archery, lawn tennis or croquet.

Richard D. Story - Editor in Chief, Departures Magazine says it all:
"Standing on the Gatsby-green lawn of Sasakwa Hill Lodge, I am reminded of Alexander the Great who, it is said, wept when he realized there were an infinite number of worlds. The vista is astonishing, a seemingly endless landscape of savanna and sky."

Ride to Faru Faru Depart early morning and ride to Faru Faru for three nights on a full board basis. Depending on timing you may be riding with the famous Great Migration. Over one million wildebeest and two hundred thousand zebra flow every year, drawn south by the short rains, and west, then north, by the long rains and by an ancient and raw instinct. It is one of Africa's most astonishing sights.

Set on a small rocky bluff Faru Faru camp looks out over two watering holes and the riverine forest front beyond. The rooms are large and spacious with huge glass, sliding electric windows. Each of the rooms has an outside shower and views over the watering holes. The ultimate luxury.

Sabora Tented Camp: Return to Sasakwa for a night, bid adieu to your trusty steed, and transfer by vehicle to Sabora (which has no stables). The tents are all furnished in the grand old Hemingway theme with large four poster beds, campaign furniture and writing desks. All the tents are made of brown canvas with a long wooden balcony running along one side that look out towards the east, across the vast plains where the Great Migration flows. Surprisingly, should your healing require further exercise, you will find a 'health and fitness' tent, spa, heated plunge pool, and a clay tennis court. Or perhaps by now you will have learned that surprises happen regularly at Singita.