
Explore the Cape, Victoria Falls or East African islands
Chat to Tina about visiting Cape Town, Western Cape, the majestic Victoria Falls or one of the east African islands such as Mauritius and Madagascar.
You may tag on one or more of these destinations after your Kruger safari, we will arrange everything for you including flights, resort/hotel bookings and activities to suit your family's or group's needs.
For more information email: tina@beardedheron.com or set up an intro call with us.
Cape Town
Victoria Falls
Mauritius
Madagascar
Kruger Safari
VICTORIA FALLS
Situated in Victoria Falls, 3.1 km from Victoria Falls, Palm River Hotel features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. 2.1 km from Victoria Falls National Park and 2.4 km from David Livingstone Statue, the property provides a restaurant and a bar. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi.
A continental, Full English/Irish or vegetarian breakfast is available each morning at the property. The Big Tree at Victoria Falls is 2.7 km from the hotel, while Victoria Falls Crocodile Park is 5.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport, 18 km from Palm River Hotel.
The Palm River Hotel 4-star package includes:
· Flights on AirLink ex-Johannesburg to Victoria Falls and return (includes taxes)
· Three nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Suite (B&B)
· Breakfast daily
· Afternoon tea in the restaurant
· One three-course meal at local restaurant with transfers
· One three-course dinner at the Hotel
· Daily scheduled transfers into Victoria Falls
· 1 x river cruise on Ra-Ikane with drinks, snacks and transfers (excludes river fee)
· Return airport/hotel transfers as per itinerary
MAURITIUS
5-Star Resort & Spa
Located on the North West coast of Mauritius, Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa is surrounded by a 35-hectare tropical garden and faces nearly two kilometres of white sandy beach and a turquoise lagoon. The resort offers air-conditioned accommodations with a furnished balcony or terrace. Some include a private plunge pool. The bright and spacious suites include a cozy lounge area with flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Each comes with tea and coffee making facilities and a modern bathroom with a double basin. Fully equipped kitchen and other amenities are available in the 2- and 3-bedroomed villas where all-day room service is also available. The property has 6 in-house restaurants, each proposing a different culinary journey from Asia to Europe. Besides, guests can sip drinks at the two bars overlooking the pool and the beach.
A wide range of land and water sports is available at the resort and trips including glass-bottom boat tours and snorkeling can be organised by experienced staff such as water sports such as sailing, water-skiing and stand up paddle. Guests can also enjoy various land sports including beach volley, tennis or bocce ball.
Package includes:
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Flights return (includes taxes) from Johannesburg International Airport to Mauritius Airport
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Five nights’ accommodation in Superior apartment (Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch)
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Return airport road transfers
CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA
Create your own privately guided itinerary (2 to 8 people or more) whether you choose Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Gardens or Boulders beach or plan to take a cable car to Table Mountain, visit The Waterfront for some retail therapy, drive through Cape Point and visit the lush winelands of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch or travel to Hermanus, our fantastic Cape guide has you covered.
Package includes:
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Flights return (includes taxes) from Johannesburg International Airport to Cape Town Airport
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All nights’ accommodation in a boutique hotel & spa (Bed & Breakfast)
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Return airport road transfers
MADAGASCAR
Exora Beach Hotel 4-star – Nosy Be, Madagascar
· Five nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Suite
· Dinner, bed and breakfast
· Afternoon tea in the restaurant
· One three-course meal at the Cassia Restaurant (Ilala Lodge) with transfers
· One three-course dinner at the Palm River Hotel
· 1 x river cruise on Ra-Ikane with drinks, snacks and transfers (excludes river fee)
· Return airport/hotel transfers
Package includes:
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Flights on AirLink ex-Johannesburg to Victoria Falls and return (includes taxes)
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Three nights’ accommodation
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Return airport transfers
African Parks and What They Offer
South Africa is home to a diverse array of national parks – each offering unique landscapes,
abundant wildlife and a variety of activities for visitors. Among the most renowned are the Kgalagadi
Transfrontier Park and the Cape National Parks, which include Table Mountain National Park, West
Coast National Park and Agulhas National Park.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast wilderness that straddles the border between South Africa
and Botswana. Known for its red dunes, sparse vegetation and dry riverbeds, it is a haven for wildlife
enthusiasts.
Activities
Game drives: Kgalagadi offers thrilling game drives where visitors can spot a variety of
animals, including lions, cheetahs and numerous antelope species.
Bird watching: The park is home to more than 200 bird species including raptors like the
majestic martial eagle and pygmy falcon.
Photographic safaris: The striking landscapes and unique light conditions make it a paradise
for photographers.
Accommodation
Rest camps: Options such as Twee Rivieren, Nossob and Mata-Mata offer comfortable
chalets and camping facilities.
Wilderness camps: For a more secluded experience Bitterpan, Gharagab or Kieliekrankie
offer basic amenities in a remote setting.
Cape National Parks
The Cape National Parks are a collection of protected areas which showcase the unique fynbos
vegetation and stunning coastal landscapes of the Cape region.
Table Mountain National Park
Table Mountain National Park encompasses the iconic Table Mountain, Cape Point and the Cape of
Good Hope.
Activities
Hiking: Numerous trails of varying difficulty levels offer breathtaking views of the city and
the ocean.
Cableway: The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway provides an easy way to reach the summit
for panoramic vistas. Beach activities: Cape Point and Boulders Beach offer opportunities for swimming, picnicking
and penguin watching.
Accommodation
Luxury lodges: Options like the Table Mountain Lodge provide upscale accommodations with
stunning views.
Camping: Designated camping areas offer a more rustic experience for nature lovers.
West Coast National Park
West Coast National Park is famous for its spring wildflower displays and the Langebaan Lagoon.
Activities
Wildflower viewing: Visit during August and September to witness a spectacular display of
blooming wildflowers.
Bird watching: Black harrier, Southern black korhaan, Grey-winged francolin among many
others.
Water sports: The lagoon offers opportunities for kayaking, sailing and windsurfing.
Accommodation
Houseboats: Experience a unique stay on a houseboat on the lagoon.
Self-Catering Cottages: Various cottages within the park offer comfortable self-catering
options.
Agulhas National Park
Agulhas National Park is located at the southernmost tip of Africa, known for its rugged coastline
and rich biodiversity.
Activities
Walking trails: Explore trails that take you through coastal fynbos and offer views of
shipwrecks along the coast.
Bird watching: The park is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered
African black oystercatcher.
Historic sites: Visit the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse and the southernmost point of Africa.
Accommodation
Rest camps: The Agulhas Rest Camp offers comfortable chalets with views of the ocean.
Guest houses: Nearby guest houses provide additional accommodation options for visitors.
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, offering an unparalleled safari
experience.
Activities
Game drives: Spot the Big Five and other wildlife during guided or self-drive safaris.
Walking safaris: Experience the bush up close with a trained guide.
Bird watching: Over 500 bird species make Kruger a bird watcher's dream.
Accommodation
Rest camps: Numerous rest camps offer a range of accommodations from basic huts to
luxury lodges.
Private concessions: Exclusive lodges within private concessions provide a more luxurious
and intimate experience.
Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park is renowned for its elephant population and diverse ecosystems.Activities Game drives: Observe elephants and other wildlife on guided or self-drive safaris. Horseback riding: Explore the park on horseback for a unique perspective. Marine adventures: The park also includes a marine reserve with opportunities for whalewatching and diving.Accommodation Rest camps: Main camps and other rest camps offer various accommodation options. Luxury lodges: Private lodges within the park provide a more luxurious stay.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, is famous for its rhinoconservation efforts.Activities Game drives: Spot the Big Five and other wildlife during guided or self-drive safaris. Walking trails: Explore the wilderness on foot with a guide. Boat cruises: Enjoy boat cruises on the Hluhluwe Dam.Accommodation Rest camps: Hilltop Camp and Mpila Camp offer comfortable accommodations within thepark. Safari tents: Experience the bush in safari tents for a more adventurous stay.These national parks are just a glimpse of the natural beauty and activities that South Africa has tooffer. Each park provides a unique experience making South Africa a prime destination for naturelovers and adventure seekers alike
Bearded Heron Itinerary Examples
Cape Town:
Day 1: Arrival
Your guide will meet you at Cape Town Airport off your flight and drop you at your hotel.


Day 2: ROBBEN ISLAND, BO-KAAP and CITY
Full-day tour, starting with a visit to Robben Island and visiting the city’s historical sights and the
colourful and magical Bo-Kaap area.
Half-day visit to the island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for most of the 27 years he served.
You will board the special ferry at the Mandela Gateway and once you arrive on the island, a
Robben Island tour guide will show you around and teach you about the history.
The second half of the day will consist of a tour of the city, exploring historical places such as the colourful Bo-Kaap and the V&A Waterfront



Day 3: TABLE MOUNTAIN and KIRSTENBOSCH
At 8.30am our guide will collect you for a visit to the magnificent Table Mountain using fast track
tickets.
Hundreds of millions of years ago Table Mountain was at sea level, the city’s famous landmark was gradually forced to rise due to continental drift and it now stands over a kilometre tall overlooking the bay
Weather and time permitting, we will drive over Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town. The garden is one of 10 National Botanical Gardens covering five of South Africa's six different biomes and administered by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).
Kirstenbosch places a strong emphasis on the cultivation of indigenous plants
The garden includes a large conservatory (The Botanical Society Conservatory) exhibiting plants from a number of different regions, including savanna, fynbos, karoo and others. Outdoors, the focus is on plants native to the Cape region, highlighted by the spectacular collections of proteas.
You will return to your hotel in the late afternoon.


Day 4: PENINSULA
8.30 am departure on this day and we will proceed to the Southwestern tip of Africa, known as Cape Point, where it is fabled that two oceans meet...
At the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, you are provided with an opportunity to view animals such as Cape Mountain zebra, mischievous baboons and blissful ostrich; all of which reside in the reserve among the indigenous Fynbos.
Along your route, you will learn how the treacherous rocks running along the Atlantic Seaboard came to be known as the ‘Ships Graveyard’, why Bartholomew Diaz called this ‘The Cape of Storms’, and why Jan Van Riebeeck proclaimed Table Bay as The Cape of Good Hope.

Continue your scenic drive along the beautiful Chapman’s Peak and
Continue your scenic drive along the beautiful Chapman’s Peak and into Hout Bay. Hugging the face of Chapman’s Peak Mountain, this pass offers breath-taking vantage points that rise-up to 1,945 ft. (593 meters) above sea level. Each one of the 114 curves along the roadway offers incredible views - so keep your camera ready!
You will return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
into Hout Bay. Hugging the face of Chapman’s Peak Mountain, this pass offers breath-taking vantage points that rise-up to 1,945 ft. (593 meters) above sea level. Each one of the 114 curves along the roadway offers incredible views - so keep your camera ready!
You will return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Day 5: HERMANUS
Hermanus is a seaside town southeast of Cape Town. It's known as a whale-watching destination. Beaches include Voëlklip Beach and the broad Grotto Beach, overlooking Walker Bay.
Stretched along a narrow ribbon of land between towering mountains and a spectacular Indian ocean shoreline, Hermanus is surrounded by nature in her grandest style.
Sitting on the edge of Walker Bay, this small coastal town offers a bewitching array of experiences. Whales and Great White Sharks, the most diverse Floral Kingdom in the world, mountain walks and pristine beaches, secluded forests, crashing surf, lagoons and a hidden valley so beautiful it’s named ‘Heaven and Earth.’



Day 6: WINELANDS
At 9am we will head out to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek to enjoy the best the Cape has to offer in the Winelands. We will fit in at least three wine tastings and visit various galleries and places of interest in the area. We will need your wine preferences to properly plan which wineries to visit.
Even if you are not a wine drinker, you won’t regret a day in the Winelands just for the sheer beauty of the farms and architecture. All the farms accommodate non-drinkers too with cheeses and olives and all kinds of other delicacies.

Day 7: Departure
At a time to be advised, a private road transfer to Cape Town Airport.
About the package:
Includes:
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Accommodation (Bed & Breakfast basis) for 6 nights.
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Accredited guide, transport and entrance fees except on day 6 as above.
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Day trip entrance, guide and vehicle fees on days 1, 3, 4 and 5.
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Airport and port transfers on day 7 and day 8.
*All tours are private and include private transport, refreshments in the vehicle and a registered driver/guide.
Not included:
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Drinks, lunches and dinners.
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Suggested day tours on day 6.
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Items of a personal nature.
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Travel insurance (recommended).
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Domestic flights.
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Tips/gratuities.
African Destination Articles
Historical, Cultural and Ecological Aspects
of Victoria Falls
The Majestic Wonder of Africa
Introduction
Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ is one of the
most magnificent natural wonders of the world. Straddling the border between Zambia and
Zimbabwe, this UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a breathtaking spectacle but also a
place rich in history, culture and ecological significance.
Historical Aspects
Discovery and naming
European explorer David Livingstone first encountered the falls in 1855 and named them in
honour of Queen Victoria. However, long before Livingstone's arrival, the falls were well-
known to the indigenous peoples of the region. Archaeological evidence suggests that
humans have inhabited the area around Victoria Falls for thousands of years, with evidence
of early stone age tools and artifacts found nearby.
Colonial influence
The arrival of European settlers brought significant changes to the region. The construction
of the Victoria Falls Bridge in 1905, which connects Zimbabwe and Zambia, was a marvel of
engineering at the time and facilitated trade and tourism. The bridge remains a historical
icon and a popular site for bungee jumping and scenic views.
Cultural Aspects
Indigenous beliefs and practices
The local Tonga and Lozi tribes regard Victoria Falls with great reverence. According to their
beliefs, the falls are the domain of the river god Nyami Nyami, who controls the waters.
Traditional ceremonies and rituals are still performed to honour Nyami Nyami and seek his
protection.
Tourism and cultural exchange
Victoria Falls has become a melting pot of cultures, attracting visitors from all over the
world. The local communities have embraced tourism and offer cultural experiences such as
traditional dance performances, craft markets and guided tours that provide insight into
their rich heritage.
Ecological Aspects
Biodiversity
The ecosystem around Victoria Falls is incredibly diverse. The rainforests that thrive in the
perpetual mist of the falls are home to unique plant species and a variety of wildlife, which
include vervet monkeys, baboons and numerous bird species. The Zambezi River, which
feeds the falls, supports a vibrant aquatic ecosystem with species like the Tigerfish and Nile
crocodile.
Conservation efforts
Given its ecological importance, Victoria Falls is the focus of various conservation efforts.
Both Zimbabwe and Zambia have established national parks to protect the area.
Organisations work tirelessly to manage the impact of tourism, combat poaching and
preserve the natural habitat for future generations.
Conclusion
Victoria Falls is much more than a natural wonder; it is a place where history, culture and
ecology intertwine. Its majestic beauty continues to inspire awe and reverence, while the
efforts to preserve its unique environment and cultural significance ensure that it remains a
treasured legacy for generations to come.
The Kalahari Desert and Kgalagadi
Wildlife
A Journey Through Majestic Landscapes
Once upon a time, in the heart of southern Africa, stretched a vast expanse of red sand
known as the Kalahari Desert. Covering more than 900,000 square kilometers, this semi-arid
region wasn't a typical desert, for it received precious seasonal rainfall, which breathed life
into its ancient dunes shaped by time and wind.
In this land of extremes, summers blaze with temperatures soaring above 40°C / 104°F,
while winter nights fall below freezing, cloaking the landscape in a crisp silence. Amidst the
acacias, scrub bushes, and resilient grasses, lay salt pans and fossil watercourses, painting a
picture of stark beauty that captivates every soul who dares to explore its depths.
Among the dunes and sparse vegetation live the San people - also known as the Bushmen -
the indigenous guardians of the Kalahari. They are one of the world's oldest cultures, their
history is etched in the sands for thousands of years. The San people possess a profound
connection with their surroundings, armed with intricate knowledge of the flora and fauna
upon which they rely.
Traditionally, the San are hunter-gatherers, skilfully using bows and arrows, snares, and
tracking techniques to hunt animals, while foraging for edible plants, berries, and roots. They
speak in unique click languages, sounds that echo the rhythms of their ancient heritage.
Despite the march of modernity, the San people continue to preserve their traditions while
adding to the cultural and ecological tapestry of the Kalahari.
Venturing deeper into this majestic desert, one would find the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
This sanctuary straddles the border between South Africa and Botswana, a realm of rich
biodiversity integral to the Kalahari ecosystem. Here, life thrives in remarkable ways.
The park's flora and fauna are a testament to nature's resilience. Lions with black manes,
unique to this region, roam the sands alongside cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. Herbivores
like springboks, gemsboks, and wildebeests dot the plains and often gather around scarce
water sources. Overhead, the skies are patrolled by majestic raptors like the martial eagle,
while sociable weavers craft intricate communal nests in the trees. Hardy plants such as
camel thorn trees and shepherd’s trees stand as guardians of the land, enduring the
prolonged droughts with unwavering strength.
The Kgalagadi biome is a unique blend of desert and savanna ecosystems. Red sand dunes,
dry riverbeds and sparse vegetation create a habitat unlike any other that support a wide
range of endemic species, which are not found anywhere else in the world.
Conservation efforts in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are dedicated to preserving this
delicate balance. Anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and research programs aim to
understand the dynamics of this unique biome, while eco-tourism allows visitors to
experience the raw beauty of the Kalahari and contribute to its conservation.
Therefore, the Kalahari Desert and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are testaments to
nature's ability to adapt, to survive, and to thrive. The interplay of landscape, climate, flora,
and fauna creates a mesmerizing mosaic that is both fragile and resilient, deserving of
admiration and protection. This story of the Kalahari and its inhabitants is a tale of wonder,
a journey through majestic landscapes that leave an indelible mark on all who experience it.