Wonders of Madagascar
An exploration of the natural wonders of Madagascar aboard the MS Serenissima
- 2 January 2020
The term ‘unique’ is an often overused description in the travel world but certainly applies to the island of Madagascar. The animals, plants, landscapes and people that make up this thousand mile long island are unlike anywhere else in the world. This extraordinary country long remained obscure as a destination and is still relatively unknown amongst even the most serious of travellers. There is minimal infrastructure in many parts of the island and for those wishing to explore the island in some depth, doing so by small ship, especially one as well-suited as the MS Serenissima is far preferable to exploring by any other means. Our small ship, with her fleet of Zodiacs for forays ashore allows us access to wonderful places denied to larger ships and with our onboard experts you can learn about and enjoy encounters with fabulous endemic wildlife in this immensely rich and timeless corner of the Indian Ocean.
In addition to the breathtaking scenery, the area abounds with strange and wonderful plants and trees, countless varieties of birds and abundant wildlife including the iconic lemur. The long separation from the African mainland has given rise to its amazing number of unique species of flora and fauna and its people are also unique having descended from Malay-Polynesian mariners who sailed from South East Asia between 1500 to 2000 years ago. Later arrivals included slaves from Africa, traders from Arabia, India and Portugal and more latterly French colonials. Our experienced expedition team will provide commentary on all that we see and will reveal the wonders of this immensely rich and timeless corner of the world.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 - London to Mauritius.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 - Mauritius.
Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the Tamassa Resort, or similar, for an overnight stay. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel facilities before we meet for dinner in the hotel this evening.
Day 3 - Mauritius.
Enjoy breakfast in the hotel and a morning at leisure. After checking out we will take an island tour including the Trou-aux- Cerfs volcano, the Grand Bassin Lake and Black River Gorges before transferring to the MS Serenissima in the late afternoon. Enjoy Welcome Drinks and Dinner as we sail tonight.
Day 4 - Reunion.
We arrive at breakfast in Reunion where we have a choice of excursions. On a full day tour we will visit the central highlands where spectacularly rugged peaks of dormant or extinct volcanoes cradle huge amphitheatres known as cirques, where mountains tower to over 10,000 feet and beautiful waterfalls plummet hundreds of feet. The rich soil and mellow climate produce a lush and verdant landscape which is dotted with villages and towns with a uniquely French atmosphere. Fields of sugar cane and plantations of tropical fruits, vanilla and all manner of spices perfume the air. We will enjoy views from the Nez des Bouefs and see the Piton de la Fournaise crater. After enjoying a creole lunch in a local restaurant we will visit the “Cite du Volcan” museum. Alternatively, enjoy a morning tour to a vanilla plantation in St Andre where we learn about the history and culture of this integral part of Reunion’s heritage. We will also enjoy some free time in St Denis before returning to the MS Serenissima for lunch. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before we set sail this evening.
Day 5 - At Sea.
Enjoy a day at sea as we cross to Madagascar.
Day 6 - Ile Sainte Marie, Madagascar.
Our first call in Madagascar is at Ile Sainte Marie, also known as Nosy Bohara, a lush tropical island offering sandy beaches, coral reefs and natural beauty. This morning we will explore the capital of Ambodifotatra including the oldest church in Madagascar built in 1837 and the vibrant market. This afternoon we will use our Zodiacs to search for beach landings from where our naturalists will lead some walks into the gardens and the small forest. Alternatively, enjoy the chance for a swim or snorkel off the beach.
Days 7 & 8 - Nosy Mangabe & Masoala National Park.
Over breakfast we arrive at Nosy Mangabe, a 520 hectare island reserve in Antongil Bay. Here we find one of the most diverse areas of virgin rainforest in Madagascar which has also been an important research centre since the mid- 1960s when several aye-ayes and lemurs were released into the forest. We will use our Zodiacs to land on the beach next to the forest and organise a series of nature walks looking at the varied trees, plants and ferns and also hope to spot chameleon, lizards and black and white ruffed lemur. For the birders, we will keep an eye out for Madagascar buzzard, kingfisher and paradise flycatchers. We remain in Antongil Bay overnight to visit Madagascar’s largest protected area, the Masoala National Park which comprises coastal rainforest, flooded forests and marsh and mangroves. Mammal species encountered include the red-ruffed lemur, the red-fronted brown lemur and the ring-tailed mongoose. The park is also home to various species of brightly coloured Mantella frogs and all manner of extraordinary chameleons. Masoala is also a refuge of the endangered Madagascar redowl and Madagascar serpent eagle and many endemic bird species. We will run a series of walks for all levels during our time here whilst you also have the option to swim off the beach or perhaps visit the local village.
Day 9 - Diego Suarez.
This morning we will enter dramatic Diego Suarez, a stunning natural harbour with a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants including Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Comorans and Arabs. Choose from a city tour visiting the Commonwealth Cemetery and Place Joffre, or a tour to Le Domaine de Fontenay from where we will discover the primary forest, home to lemurs, and a great variety of orchids, most of which are endemic to the Diego Suarez region. Alternatively visit the Malagasy Rain Forest at the Mount Amber National Park. Dividing into short and long walk parties we will go in search of lemurs and chameleons as we explore the rain forest. In the towering vegetation, we may spot several species of lemurs and chameleons as well as endemic birds, including parrots.
Day 10 - Nosy Hara.
Sail overnight over the northern tip of Madagascar where strangely shaped limestone islets dot the aquamarine-coloured sea. The expedition team will decide on the most suitable island for landing, such as Nosy Hara. Enjoy swimming off the beach or choose to explore the island on foot observing the unusual vegetation. Depending on weather conditions, we will also offer a Zodiac cruise around the islands and a chance to snorkel over the coral.
Day 11 - Nosy Tanikely.
We arrive this morning at the Nosy Tanikely Island Marine Reserve, an uninhabited island which offers snorkelling opportunities and wonderful beaches. We will take the chance to either swim in the clear waters or snorkel over the corals keeping an eye out for reef fish, turtles and morays. Alternatively, our naturalists will lead guided walks on the island where we may see the resident lemurs, fruit bats and hermit crabs and enjoy fantastic views from the lighthouse on the island’s highest point. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Day 12 - Mahajanga.
Mahajanga is a major port in northwest Madagascar situated on the Betsiboka River and is our base for a full day excursion to Ankarafantsika National Park. This deciduous forest is a haven for birds, lemurs and reptiles and on a choice of walks, we will explore with our guides. Eight species of lemur have been observed here including the famous Microcebus, the smallest primate in the world. Meanwhile over 120 species of birds nest here and we will keep an eye out for the Madagascan fish eagle and banded kestrel whilst the 44 species of reptile include chameleon, turtles and crocodiles that live in Lake Ravelobe. We will enjoy lunch in the park and in the afternoon there will be options to join further walks, watch for birdlife at the nearby lake or we have requested permissions to visit the Durrell breeding programme which was established at Ampijora and is dedicated to protecting the ploughshare tortoise, one of the most threatened breeds in the world.
Day 13 - At Sea.
Relax on board and enjoy the lecture programme as we continue our journey around the Madagascan coast.
Day 14 - Morondava.
From our anchorage off the town of Morondava, we will use the Zodiacs to land on the local beach. From here we have a choice of excursions to explore the local region. A half day morning tour will visit the Avenue de Baobabs. Of the eight baobab species in the world, six are endemic to Madagascar. Here we will see the Adansonia grandidieri species with a row of 20 to 25 trees which border the gravel road. We will learn about the trees and their spiritual significance before returning to Morondava and exploring the local market. Alternatively, join a full day excursion to Kirindy Forest. Situated approximately a two hour drive from Morondava, we will pass the Avenue de Baobabs as we travel north. Kirindy is a 10,000 hectare, dry deciduous forest, one of the most endangered in the world where the flora and fauna includes many endemic species. Here we find three species of baobab, many birds and reptiles including snakes, tortoises and lizards, eight species of lemur including the rare pale form marked lemur and other mammals including giant jumping rat, fosa and narrow-striped mongoose.
Day 15 - Tulear.
Our last call in Madagascar will be Tulear on the southwest coast. Arriving at lunchtime we have a choice of activities this afternoon. Maybe drive to the Antsokay Arboretum which is entirely devoted to conservation of the plants from the southwest of Madagascar and, after more than 30 years of hard work, offers a densely kept selection of flora presenting a typical sub-arid thicket with baobab trees towering over the smaller plants. We will see the four hectare botanical garden which comprises over 900 species of plants of which 90% is endemic to the region. Alternatively visit the Reniala Private Reserve, a small area of just 60 hectares but containing a spiny forest which is unique to South Eastern Madagascar. The park is home to 200 plant species including baobabs as well as being a paradise for birders with sightings of paradise flycatchers, Madagascar hoopoe and Madagascar crested drongo.
Day 16 - Tulear to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our specially chartered flight to Johannesburg. Connect here with our scheduled onward flight to London. Alternatively, for further wildlife experiences join our extension to the Kruger National Park.
Day 17 - London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 2 to 18 January 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £7695 | |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £7895 | |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £8095 | |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £8395 | |
| 6 Junior Suite | £8495 | |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £9295 | |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £9795 | |
| 10 Standard Single | £7695 | |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE020120
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel from London to Mauritius and Johannesburg to London • Specially chartered flight from Tulear to Johannesburg • Overnight hotel accommodation in Mauritius with dinner & breakfast • 13 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Expedition Team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visa.
-
Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
-
For your comfort
For your comfort
There are so few ships of this generation still cruising and MS Serenissima is a great testament to her present and previous owners that they have seen fit to invest considerable sums over the years to keep her in top form and complying with the stringent health and safety requirements. There is a doctor onboard and during your voyage you will have the opportunity to visit the Captain and Officers on the bridge.
-
Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted to have had the MS Serenissima on long term charter since 2013. There are so few ships of her generation still cruising and she is a great testament to her owners who invest considerable sums to keep her on top form. At the end of 2018 she underwent a refurbishment which included both of the lounges. MS Serenissima is a charming vessel and one of her best known and loved features is her unique style.
The vessel is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft allowing us to visit remote places where normal tender arrangements are not possible. The Captain, Officers, Expedition Staff, and crew offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism and caring attitudes. The atmosphere on board is warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of crew: 52
Beam: 43.6 feet
Draft: 15.5 feet
Length: 286 feet
Gross tonnage: 2598 tonnes
Classification: CRS
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Built: 1960
Refurbished: 2018
Registered: St Vincent and GrenadinesAIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
ALTERATIONS TO THE SCHEDULE
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of any changes.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. There are eight different grades of cabins arranged over five decks, and all staterooms feature either windows or portholes. Windows and portholes do not open in the cabins/suites, except for the Serenissima Suites (numbers 701 – 704) which have a window and a balcony door which opens out onto the balcony.
Facilities include: • Air conditioning (please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning) • Dressing table with chair or stool • En-suite bathroom with shower, (please note cabins 601-605 and 507 have a bath with shower attachment) • Hairdryer • Mini Bar (Serenissima Suites only) • Balcony (Serenissima Suites only) • Robe and slippers • Safe • Flat screen television • Telephone (charges apply) • Wardrobe • Wi-Fi access – You will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone (charges apply).
COMMUNICATION
In case you wish to contact the ship, please call + 47 2367 4607. This is a Norwegian telephone number so calls will be charged at an international rate. The ship can also be contacted by Email: cruise@msserenissima.com (please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject).
The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charged at €7 Euros per minute for outgoing calls. Please be advised of the following for internal communication:
Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 000+ code of the country + telephone number Reception: dial 800 Doctor: dial 331 or 332
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced onboard and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING AND DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant onboard serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased onboard and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea lounge.
Please advise of any special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, low salt, low cholesterol, gluten free, lactose intolerant to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance and we recommend that you also reconfirm with your Cruise Director and Maitre D’ once on board. We regret that the ship is unable to guarantee special requests and is not equipped to prepare or serve kosher or halal cuisine.
DISABLED FACILITIES
The ship can accommodate passengers with mobility restrictions and wheelchair dependent passengers in cabin 407, which has a wider door. There is a lift serving decks 3 to 6, but there is no stair lift.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director will provide you with disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a Welcome and Farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events, for example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie, and ladies a dress or trouser suit. Black tie is not required.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require. If you have any medication which must be kept cold, please ask at reception to store it in the fridge.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor.
EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency please leave your cabin and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. All public areas have an emergency button. We request that you read the safety instructions on the back of your cabin door.
FIELD STAFF
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia Cruise Director/Expedition Leader and an experienced team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests.
GOING ASHORE
Please leave your cabin key at reception and take your ship card with you. As soon as you are back on board please hand back your boarding card and pick up your key as this will confirm your presence on board.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Please be on time for the organised excursions, so as not to keep others waiting. If you do not wish to participate in an excursion, please let your Cruise Director know.
GOING ASHORE INDEPENDENTLY
When you go ashore individually, please be back on board at least 30 minutes before the advertised departure time of the ship.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitizers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
INTERNET
Wi-Fi access is available in public areas with your own laptop, tablet or smartphone, and charges apply – 500MB for €15 Euros, or 1GB for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
LANGUAGE
All members of the crew speak English.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 0900. The laundry bag and list can be found in your wardrobe. Every effort will be made to return your laundry to your cabin within 24 hours. There is no dry cleaning service onboard.
LIFE JACKETS
All life jackets are stored on Deck 6 near the Muster station.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within seven days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MASSAGE
Please contact reception (charges apply for massages).
MONEY
The official currency on board is the Euro, but British Pounds are also accepted. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services such as bar drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc. throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros,British Pounds or US Dollars) • Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) • Debit Card (MasterCard and Visa) Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
As a result of Russian ownership, please note that credit/debit card payments will be charged in Russian Rubles. The debited amount shown on your bank/building society statement in British Pounds will be based on the relevant exchange rates on the day of the transaction. You may need to make your bank/building society aware that your card payment will be authorised ‘in Russia’ so that payment is not declined, and also to ascertain if any additional charges will be applied. Unfortunately, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service onboard, as this would be contravening official regulations.
PASSPORTS
Your passport will be kept securely at reception throughout the duration of the cruise, and you will be issued with a ship card which we advise you carry with you at all times when ashore.
POST
Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be sent on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can the ship be held liable for such occurrences.
PUBLIC AREAS
• Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 09.00 until 24.00. • Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. There is also a computer for public use (charges apply for internet access) • Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and small fitness room with two running machines • Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) • Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas
RECEPTION
Reception is open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. Overnight the reception’s phone will be switched over to the bridge.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in to your Cruise Director.
QUIETVOX
During our excursions, we use a whisper system called Quietvox. In your cabin there is a charging station with two devices and two sets of earpieces. Please keep your devices in the charging station (and the station plugged in) whilst you are not on an excursion. Bring the sets with you on excursions as your guides with speak to you through their microphone. The use of the equipment will be explained before the first excursion starts.
SAFE
Although there is a safe in your cabin, we recommend that you leave all extra valuables at home, and bring with you only what you consider necessary. Neither the ship, nor Noble Caledonia, are responsible for any valuables left in the cabins. Beware of petty crime and pickpockets whilst ashore. A money belt worn underneath clothing is useful. Do not take all your money with you when out sightseeing. We advise utmost caution at popular tourist spots. Please do not leave any luggage unattended at any time.
SAFETY AND LIFEBOAT DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill you will be instructed on how to wear and operate your life jacket.
SEA SICKNESS
As on any seagoing vessel, some marked motion may be anticipated in certain areas, dependent upon weather, season, etc. It is recommended that you bring anti-motion sickness medication just in case, even if you have never experienced motion sickness in the past. Please consult your Doctor/General Practitioner (GP) or local pharmacist regarding which medication is appropriate and its side effects. To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or lying down with their eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help. SHOP The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in the cabins or public areas. Smoking will only be permitted outside in the designated areas.
SNORKELLING
There is snorkelling equipment available on board the vessel.
TELEVISION
The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 13 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship and another which displays the Daily Programme and activities.
TOILETS
The ship is fitted with a sensitive vacuum system. Please do not put anything into the toilet except toilet paper.
TOWELS
Towels will be changed once in the middle of your cruise. Should you need new towels earlier, please let the housekeeper know. Please do not use the bathroom towels on the beach. A separate towel for swimming will be provided.
WATER
We recommend that you do not drink the tap water in your cabin. The tap water in your cabin is not potable. Complimentary bottles of mineral water will be placed in your cabin daily and near reception before an excursion.
ZODIACS
Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises.
Please Note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.5 May 2019
-
Videos
Videos
-
Deck plans
-
Deckplan
-
Deckplan
Video Library
Tour Extensions
-
-
We are delighted to offer an extension to Kruger National Park after your voyage aboard the MS Serenissima to enjoy some more incredible wildlife viewing.
Bull elephant
The Itinerary
Day 1 Johannesburg South Africa. Arrive by our chartered flight from Madagascar and overnight at a Johannesburg hotel. Meet tonight for dinner.
Day 2 Johannesburg to Kruger National Park. After breakfast in the hotel we return to the airport for our scheduled flight to Nelspruit’s Kruger Airport. The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest game reserve with nearly two million hectares of land that stretches for 352 kilometres (20,000 square kilometres) from north to south along the Mozambique border and is given over to an almost indescribable wildlife experience. This is the land of baobabs, fever trees, knob thorns, marula and mopane trees underneath which lurk the Big Five (buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino), the Little Five (buffalo weaver, elephant shrew, leopard tortoise, ant lion and rhino beetle), the birding Big Six (ground hornbill, kori bustard,lappet-faced vulture, martial eagle, pel’s fishing owl and saddle-bill stork) and more species of mammals than in any other African game reserve. We will transfer to the Lukimbi Safari Lodge where we enjoy lunch before embarking on our first game drive this afternoon. Return to the lodge for a traditional Boma dinner this evening.
Day 3 Kruger National Park. Hot and cold beverages will be waiting for us after our early morning wake up call. Enjoy a morning game drive showcasing the wildlife and nature of the southern region of Kruger National Park, followed by breakfast at the lodge. Bounded by the Crocodile River in the south and the Sabie River in the north, the southern region is also host to the jagged ridge of the Lebombo Mountains along the border to Mozambique, and the highest point in the park, Khandzalive. The valleys are home to trees rarely found in other parts of the Kruger Park, such as the Cape chestnut, coral tree and lavender fever-berry. After breakfast, embark on an optional morning bush walk, followed by free time and a leisurely lunch. Later this afternoon there is the option of another game drive before dinner at the lodge.
Day 4 Kruger to London. After another dawn game drive we will enjoy breakfast and check out of the lodge before driving to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for our short flight to Johannesburg. Connect here with our onward flight to London.
Day 5 London. Arrive this morning.
Please note that places for the our Kruger extension are limited to just 20 guests so we recommend reserving your place as soon as possible.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
17 to 21 January 2020 Category Price Twin £2295 Single £2595 PRICE INCLUDES: Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg on a bed and breakfast basis • Dinner on day 1 • Scheduled air travel between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park • Two nights accommodation at the Lukimbi Safari Lodge on a full board basis including game drives • Gratuities • Transfers • Taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
-
Also of Interest
Christmas & New Year in the Indian Ocean
Celebrate the festive season surrounded by the warmth & beauty of the Indian Ocean aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Zanzibar
- Kilwa Kisiwani
- Aldabra Islands, Seychelles
- Farquhar Islands
- Diego Suarez, Madagascar
- Masoala National Park / Nosy Mangabe
- Reunion
- Mauritius
15 nights
from
£7295
Next Departure
21 December 2019
Indian Ocean Island Odyssey
Discover the beauty of Mauritius, Madagascar, the Seychelles and Tanzania aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius
- Reunion
- Ile Sainte Marie, Madagascar
- Nosy Mangabe / Masoala National Park
- Diego Suarez
- Aldabra Islands, Seychelles
- Zanzibar
- Dar es Salaam
16 nights
from
£7895
Next Departure
28 January 2020
Seychelles Odyssey
An Island Hopping Expedition in the Indian Ocean aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Zanzibar
- Kilwa Kisiwani
- Aldabra Islands, Seychelles
- Farquhar Islands
- Alphonse Islands
- Amirante Islands
- Aride / Curieuse
- Praslin / La Digue
- Mahe
13 nights
from
£6895
Next Departure
11 February 2020
Marvels of Madagascar
Discover the eighth continent aboard the MS Caledonian Sky
Caledonian Sky
Caledonian Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius
- Reunion
- Ile Sainte Marie, Madagascar
- Nosy Mangabe & Masoala National Park
- Diego Suarez
- Nosy Hara
- Nosy Tanikely
- Mahajanga
- Morondava
- Tulear
16 nights
from
£9495
Next Departure
30 September 2020
Wildlife & Wonders of the Indian Ocean
A voyage from Mauritius to Tanzania including Madagascar & the Outer Seychelles aboard the MS Caledonian Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Caledonian Sky
Caledonian Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius / Reunion / Madagascar / Diego Suarez / Aldabra / Kilwa Kisiwani / Zanzibar / Dar es Salaam
15 nights
from
£8995
Next Departure
26 October 2020
Passage through the Seychelles
Island Hopping in the beautiful Seychelles aboard the MS Caledonian Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Caledonian Sky
Caledonian Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Dar es Salaam / Aldabra Islands / Farquhar Islands / Alphonse Islands/ Aride /Curieuse / Praslin / La Digue / Mahe
12 nights
from
£8995
Next Departure
8 November 2020
Madagascar & Beyond
Discover the wonders of Aldabra & Madagascar aboard the MS Caledonian Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Caledonian Sky
Caledonian Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mahe /Praslin /Grande Soeur /Alphone Islands / Aldabra / Diego Suarez /Nosy Hara / Nosy Tanikely / Mahajanga / Morondava / Tulear / Portuguese Island / Maputo
18 nights
from
£10495
Next Departure
2 January 2021
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000