Southern Sun Garden Court, Sandton City
This modern hotel is situated in the heart of Sandton, the exclusive business and residential area north of Johannesburg, alongside the Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square complexes (the largest shopping, eating and entertainment complex in the Southern Hemisphere). Set in an attractive, landscaped garden with an outdoor swimming pool, the Southern Sun Garden Court provides an informal atmosphere which is combined with efficient service. The Breakfast Room serves a light or full buffet breakfast, and McGinty's Irish Pub & Grill is the perfect spot for a pub lunch or dinner.

Nelson Mandela Square
Nelson Mandela Square… because life is about choice. And what better way to exercise yours than combining the grace and charm of Nelson Mandela Square's European styled piazza with the warmth of the South African sun.

As the spacious mall winds its way through a delightful array of shops, you're greeted by everything from chic sophistication to décor and designer labels, from curios to culture, it's art and African couture, jewellery and books.

Then, nested along the colonnades, a host of restaurants and coffee shops fan out into the open square where a cappuccino, cooler or sumptuous meal add the final ingredients. Nelson Mandela Square is linked to Sandton City to form the largest shopping, eating and entertainment complex in the Southern Hemisphere. It is completely safe to walk around at any time of the day or night.

Downtown Johannesburg and Soweto
Soweto is the very symbol of the black struggle for freedom in South Africa. Experience the origins of “matchbox city” and its complex relationship with the rest of Johannesburg. Take a drive with us through various suburbs of Soweto, through the upper class, and aptly named, Beverly Hills to the informal settlements, where you are able to interact with the locals and look inside their “shack” dwellings. See Nelson Mandela’s home, and drive down the only street in the world to house two Nobel Peace Prize winners! Visit the taxi ranks, the traditional healers shops and the markets. Experience general township life in Soweto, and learn more about the defiance campaigns and the former system of apartheid. For anyone who has never done this tour, it is a MUST!

iSibindi Zulu Lodge
iSibindi Zulu Lodge is situated in a private game reserve in ruggedly beautiful Zululand. An architectural celebration of the Zulu nation, the lodge is a peaceful bushveld retreat which also offers a host of activities for our guests wanting to experience a combination of luxurious accommodation, gameviewing, battlefields and Zulu cultural experiences.

This 12 bed luxury lodge is a stone's throw away from the historically momentous Anglo-Zulu battlefields of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana where Zulu and British clashed in a devestating battle which had enormous consequences for the Zulu people. The lodge also offers a choice of authentic Zulu cultural experiences.

Architecturally inspired by the traditional Zulu beehive shape, the Beehive Suites offer panoramic views of the game reserve and its diverse habitats ranging from montane grassland to riverine forests. Each Beehive Suite has its own viewing deck overlooking the game reserve and the surrounding hills like Rorke's Drift. All rooms are en-suite with separate bath and spacious shower.

The Main Lodge set amongst huge Buffalo Thorn Trees and dolorite boulders boasts a homely lounge with a large fireplace, a library, a unique bar carved out of a Wait-a-Bit Thorn Tree, a swimming pool with a view and spacious verandah. The privately set swimming pool has breathtaking views over the game reserve. Guests gather around the bar in the evenings to recall the day’s safari on the Anglo-Zulu Battlefields or a game walk on the game reserve. Isibindi Zulu Lodge takes pride in its cuisine and has developed a reputation for its unique presentation of South African Fair. Breakfasts and lunches are either served al fresco at the swimming pool or on the verandah.

iSibindi Game Reserve: iSibindi Zulu Lodge is situated within the 4000 acre Isibindi Eco-Reserve which offers diverse habitats ranging from montane grassland and valley thornveld to riverine forests. The reserve is home to abundant indigenous game, morning and evening game drives are offered and there is excellent bird watching. It is also quite safe to walk or take a picnic along one of the meandering river beds and view Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, etc.

Battlefield Tours: iSibindi Zulu Lodge offers guided tours of the Anglo-Zulu battlefields. Tours must be pre-booked prior to your arrival so that arrangements can be made with our preferred guides to take the tours. The chilling accounts of the battles of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana present a deeper insight of the rich history in the area. Presented alongside the military narrative, a complete picture of the impact of the Anglo-Zulu campaign on both the Zulu and British nations is formed.

Zulu Culture and History: Isibindi Zulu Lodge offers the rare opportunity of learning about the Zulu culture and traditions as they remain in Zululand today. A Zulu Cultural Evening begins just as the sun starts setting, casting our hills in soft golden light. Guests are led down a narrow path to the beat of drums. As one emerges into a clearing coming across a historical Zulu umuzi (homestead) the dancing bodies of Zulu men and women make for a profound experience. The traditional dances and their role in Zulu history and culture is explained amid the energetic displays. A Zulu Homestead Visit gives guests a rare chance to experience the life of a rural Zulu family which has remained largely unchanged over the past hundred years since Shaka Zulu forged this mighty nation.

Shayamoya Tiger Fishing and Game Lodge
Shayamoya is a truly unique lodge in Northern KwaZulu Natal, where you are welcomed like an old friend. Privately owned and managed by the Blevin family who have lived in the area for many years, Shayamoya exudes a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Absorb the stunning view, as you sit on the wide wooden deck at Shayamoya’s Central Lodge. Panoramic images embrace the purple hued Lebombo Mountains, the curves of the Pongola River as it enters the Pongolapoort Lake (also known as Jozini) and the unspoilt bushveld of the Phongolo Nature Reserve of 10 000ha.

Shayamoya has 8 Standard Chalets, which are appointed with stylish elegance. You can relax on your private deck and observe the curious behaviour of the scarlet-breasted sunbird or have a visit from our resident Spotted Eagle Owl, Nandi. Getting even closer to nature, enjoy the experience of taking a steamy outdoor shower under the stars. Each chalet is beautifully finished with attention to detail, such as the custom made basins and brass taps in the bathrooms.

Enjoy private moments in your own Kingdom from the 2 Premium Chalets where the views are endless. The thatched chalets are built of local wood and stone and blend deliciously into their wild surrounding. Well-manicured pathways link the chalets with the central lodge. While strolling from the chalets, you may come across duiker, zebra and guinea fowl that roam around the lodge.

Guests gather in the Central Lodge where they join in the camaraderie and share their happy experiences. Shayamoya offers a fully licensed bar to make your stay pleasantly bubbly. Refresh with a dip in the swimming pool or cool off under the shade of the gazebo.

Tiger fishing is the lodge's speciality. The lake is the only water in South Africa that is home to the combative tiger fish but if fishing is not your bag, there are plenty of activities at Shayamoya, and some of the more unusual species of game to be discovered!

The Bundu Pot Restaurant treats you to sumptuous meals of South African flavours. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, inviting new and interesting friendships. Traditional “braais” (barbeques) are held outdoors around the crackling fire and the feeling of true Africa reaches every soul. Shayamoya's flexibility allows us to spoil guests with breakfasts served on the River bank or bush dinners enjoyed under the star-studded sky, lit only by candles. Many of our vegetables, herbs and fruit are home grown at our sister farm, Tamboti Ridge, whose diary also supply us with fresh milk, butter, yoghurt and feta cheese.

Constructed under the deck of the Central Lodge, is the earthy wine cellar offering an interesting selecting of wines. The cellar is a wonderful setting for romantic dinners so if you are planning something special, let us know to reserve this spot for you!

Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve
Situated in the heart of historic Zululand in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, Mkuze Falls is one of only two Private Game Reserves in the region. Experience the unique richness that this peaceful part of Africa has to offer. It is a place of pure tastes and simple delights, celebrating the thrill of nature. This is the place with the sound and beauty of water falling... this seeps into your soul...

The unique ecosystems of riverine, wetland, lowveld bushveld and montane grassland provide the diversity and large quantity of bird and animal species. Here you can view the 'Big Five' - lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, elephant, as well as cheetah, hippo and a vast number of plains game. For bird lovers, nearly 400 species of birds are resident. More specifically the reserve is home to the Fish Eagle, Giant Kingfisher, Narina Trogon and the spectacular Purple-crested Lourie to mention a few.

Mkuze Falls Tented Lodge
The Tented Lodge is for a more adventurous experience in five "Hemingway" style East African Tents, each overlooking the Mkuze River. The tents are built on wooden decks raised on stilts with beautiful views of the lush countryside. The facilities include a lounge, bar, boma and swimming pool. Starlit evenings are enjoyed in the boma and the sounds of the Zulu drumbeat beckon the pure spirit of Africa. The evening air is broken by the call of the Night Jar, the sounds of Zebra in the distance, the unexpected roar of the Lion and the trumpet of the Elephant. The pure sounds of Africa at her best!

The elegance of the tented design is reminiscent of a bygone era, beckoned by the freestanding Victorian bath in the en suite bathroom. Each tent is completely private and well spaced apart, tucked into the bush providing an eco-friendly retreat. Each tent is air-conditioned and has a private game viewing deck with spectacular views of the lowveld bushveld and shimmering waters of the river where numerous antelope and other wildlife frequent. The atmosphere experienced in this Safari Lodge is an awesome sense of Africa, its nature, and beauty. It is where its history of the wild comes to life and captures the free-spirited peace. Enjoy starlit evenings in the boma, or on the bar deck or make use of the cosy dining room! The tented lodge provides a true African adventure with utmost comfort and style. Enjoy two game drives daily and walks on request each day.

Description of Zeranka Lodge
Umhlanga is known internationally as the holiday Mecca of KwaZulu-Natal with magnificent beaches and game parks within easy reach by car. Zeranka Lodge offers ideal accommodation for business travelers and holiday makers, and is beautifully located only 30 metres from the warm Indian Ocean and the white sandy La Lucia Beach.

Whether you want to do it yourself or relax, at Zeranka Lodge caters for all your needs. The lodge is set in a lush tropical garden where you can relax around the pool, read a book and enjoy the warm South African evenings while having a “braai” (barbeque).

They offer:

• Luxurious and comfortable accommodation with a variety of options to our guests
• B&B rooms as well as fully equipped self catering rooms/ units, all with en-suite bathrooms, ceiling fans, TV with M-Net channel, private entrances and secure off-street parking
• English / continental breakfast served in the dining area, with special dietary requirements catered for.
• Tea / coffee making facilities and alarm clock radio are available in each room.

Zeranka Lodge provides a restful atmosphere - where you can enjoy a sun-bed around the pool in lovely gardens. We speak German, Dutch, English and Afrikaans.

uShaka Marine World

uShaka Marine World Incorporates fresh and sea water, natural materials, the re-creation of a wreck of a 1940's cargo ship, with the 5th largest aquarium in the world by volume of water, coupled with indigenous African imagery, lush vegetation and maritime images of the Port of Durban, plus a water slides amusement park. uShaka is a complete 'Marine World', tatesfully themed with a focus on family entertainment in terms of fun, excitement, friendliness, imagery, activities, education and unique experiences, grouped into five distinctly themed areas.

Treasure World
The retail food and beverage outlets are close to the main entrance to uShaka and at a height of about 10 metres above sea level, overlook much of the park and the Indian Ocean beyond. From the mysteries of the ocean floor to the wonders above, you'll find many of the treasurees you're looking for in over 11 250m2 of retail speciality stores. These include fun products such as clothing and apparel, outdoor gear and equipment, arts and crafts and other indigenous and tourist-focussed goods, information and services.

Sea World and Dolphin World - Located in the centre of uShaka Marine World, these comprise a salt water aquarium with indoor and outdoor displays and exhibits, a 1200- seater dolphin stadium where you'll be entertained by the world-famous Gambit and friends, the seal stadium and penguin rookery. In addition, Sea World offers edutainment tours behind the scenes and special interactive activities such as snorkelling through reefs and grottos and scuba dives. Many of uShaka's unique experiences are to be found in and around Sea World.

Snorkel Lagoon - Catch a feed presentation for the rock lobsters, eel and octopus before heading into the water and snorkelling into a pool designed as a rocky lagoon. Float gently over the lagoon filled with a huge variety of marine life and maritime effects such as a 16th century ship's canon before entering the bowels of a shipwrecked cargo vessel and facing up to the predators of the deep through glass.

Offshore Rocky Reefs Exhibit - Offering a diving experience, the Rocky Reef's tank will have you interacting with fish such as Slinger and Englishman and other rare and magnificent reef fish found off the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

Rocky Touch Pool - Touch a starfish or feel the skin of a sea cucumber - with the help of a specially trained guide.

The Open Ocean - Gazing through an enormous window 8m long by 3m high you'll feel as though you are actually standing underwater with the many fish associated with the open ocean such as tuna, pompano, dorado and rays.

Dangers of the Deep - Sharks, sea snakes, devil fire fish and stone fish occupy this area where from the surface you might even be able to touch a shark as it swims past a purpose-built balcony at feeding time.

Coral Gardens - A coral reef, one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth which has been recreated for you within Sea World.

The Deep Zone - A window into the lives of some of the weirdest and most spectacular animals inhabiting a world hundreds of metres below the surface of the ocean, often in total darkness.

Beach World - Durban is famous for its beaches and that's exactly what you'll find at uShaka. Bell's Beach, adjacent to uShaka Marine World, has been set aside for adventure seekers and offers perfect all-year non-stop fun. Activities include windsurfing, beach volleyball, and beach rugby, surfing, jet skiing, kite surfing, paddle boat rides, dolphin viewing charters and national and international beach sports events.

Wet 'n Wild World - A fresh water entertainment wonderland, Wet 'n Wild World offers exhilarating fun and safe entertainment for the whole family. It features separate swimming pools for kids and adults, relaxing river rides and high speed chutes for the adrenaline junkies.

Special Tours - Get an insight into Sea World's rehabilitation program for injured marine life. Learn how uShaka Marine World pumps water from the open ocean through the many aquarium tanks before returning it to the sea, cleaner than it was before. Be fascinated by a behind- the-scenes tour into the functioning of this spectacular marine theme park.

The Drakensberg Mountains
The KZN Drakensberg is one of South Africa's most outstanding attractions which draws thousands of visitors annually to its scenic beauty, crisp mountain air and clear waters.

Some come simply to relax, while others are drawn to pit their fitness against the many peaks. For nearly all the desire is to go just that little farther and get away from the sights smells and sounds of man made intrusions.

Adventure activities in the Drakensberg region include hiking trails, bird watching, game viewing, horse trails and safaris, guided tours, 4x4 trails, quad bikes, golfing, trout / fly fishing, white water rafting, rock climbing to mention but a few. The Karkloof Canopy tour is one of the most exciting adventure activities.

A spectacular offer of diverse culture and history is also presented to tourists. Visit the Battlefields and let the drama of history unfold itself in the company of a great guide. Then there is the Bushman rock art. Exquisite examples and the best preserved in South Africa

The Drakensberg has so much to offer everyone... warmth, sunshine, peace, relaxation, and plenty of valuable tourist attractions. Roast and laze in a sun chair or hike in the hills and peaks till your feet ache!

Antbear Guest House
The Antbear Guesthouse is a quaint, thatched, whitewashed cottage built in the 1940’s, high on a natural platform overlooking the Bushmans River and Giants Castle, in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains. This guesthouse is an ideal place to base yourself while you discover the Drakensberg region of KwaZulu Natal South Africa. It is a bit off the beaten track and is more of an insider tip than just another bed and breakfast, catering for small intimate groups - Antbear never has more than 10 guests at a time. It’s a laid back, lovingly cared for kind of place where you feel a sense of happiness and peace.

The name “Antbear” comes from its previous resident who lived under the floorboards before its restoration just a few years ago. It’s filled with beautiful hand crafted furniture, wonderful wooden sculptures and a seemingly never ending collection of artistic aspects to discover.

Plan for slow and decadent dinners by candlelight prepared by your hosts Andrew and Conny. Sometimes it’s a Moroccan spread including a genuine Moroccan tagine prepared on wood coals or maybe it’s a surprise of delightful Chinese food. Breakfast is served with freshly baked bread and scones and can become a 2 hour affair. If you are looking for a place where art, beauty and time away are important, then Antbear Guesthouse is worth considering!