Penduka Safaris - the legacy of mobiles
When you talk about Safaris in Botswana - you have to start with the mobiles. It was where it all began - the trepid guides that took on the endless wilderness to experience the raw beauty. So I was delighted when Penduka approached me to assist them with some marketing. They have been synonymous with adventure and reliability for over 60 years and epitomise the essence of mobiles with experience and reliability.
In September 2024, I had the privilege of joining Penduka Safaris on a 2 night stay in the Moremi. This safari was led by owner Willem Barnard, and we met our fellow safari goers in Maun and made our way into the Moremi in our safari vehicle. Mobile Safaris are not just about the destination, but more about the journey in between - and this first drive was an opportunity to get to know each other, to disconnect with our lives and the world and embrace whatever was in store for us. There is the option to fly in or out, but what is an adventure without a little bit of heat, dust and some bumps in the road, an way to appreciate the remoteness and wildness of where we were heading.
After a few hours, we arrived at the Moremi Game Reserve, and by afternoon, we found ourselves at our private campsite, tucked away within a serene grove of trees. The experience was marked by a deep respect for the park’s regulations, each rule meticulously tailored to safeguard both the wilderness and its visitors. Guided by a strong sense of sensitivity and mindfulness, we navigated the landscape, ensuring that our presence was alongside the other safari operators and lodges sharing this pristine area. This commitment to conservation not only enhanced our adventure but fostered a deeper appreciation for the balance of the ecosystem we were exploring.
The team made us feel at home, comfortable, and safe. After our long, dusty trip, we tried the bucket showers and enjoyed the simplicity of camp life. A tasty dinner and drinks by the fire ended our day, and we eagerly anticipated the night ahead. Morning came quickly with fresh coffee, and I was a little disappointed that the night noises and excitement around camp hadn’t interrupted my good sleep.
The morning drive held much promise, and we enthusiastically set off to explore the Xakanixa area with memorable sightings of both leopard and lion. On our return to camp, we were treated to a hearty brunch followed by a relaxing snooze. Later, we made our way to the boat station to embark on a cruise through the winding channels and tranquility of the Delta. We watched as elephants gracefully moved through the rivers, playfully tangled with water lilies. We were fortunate enough to spot a couple of sitatunga, those elusive swamp-dwelling antelopes, as well as some cheeky otters playing amongst the papyrus.
We returned to the vehicle and took a slow meander around beautiful lagoons and through the giant Mopane forests on our way back to camp, we were eager to enjoy our last sundowner together. Our final supper provided us with the perfect opportunity to celebrate as we finished off the meal with a wonderfully crafted birthday cake for one of our group members. It was truly an amazing feat to bake such a perfect cake in a bush oven, ingeniously made out of a hole in the ground!
As the Scops owl called out into the night, we found ourselves in deep conversation, digging into Willem’s extensive knowledge of Botswana, its fascinating geology, rich history, and anything else that happened to come to mind. In the morning, as we savored our breakfast, I took the time to watch the Penduka team as they quietly and diligently started to break camp. They worked methodically, collapsing bucket showers, collecting lanterns, and folding screens. Penduka’s finely tuned operation is the result of years of dedicated experience. Careful consideration is taken before each trip to ensure that everything is adequately supplied – from essential items like water and fuel to the food we consume and even the ice in your G&T, all meticulously prepared for a seamless adventure.
The typical Mobile safari offers travellers the opportunity to move around the vast expanse of Botswana, immersing themselves in the diverse and stunning landscapes that lie between the various camps. With a minimum requirement of 4 nights and accommodating at least 4 people, Penduka Safaris can assist in creating truly bespoke safari experiences tailored to the individual. This option is especially ideal for families and groups of friends travelling together, as it provides a completely private and exclusive adventure.
Nogatsaa Pans
Nogatsaa Pans over the past couple of years has firmly become one of my favourite corners of the world! I had already loved the uniqueness of Nogatsaa, the off the beaten track quality of this corner of Chobe, and yet each time i have visited - it never disappoints to hunker deeper into my travel heart.
It’s not always about the animals (although we get it, it does help) but the atmosphere at Nogatsaa Pans is one of welcome and warmth - from Madrid the barman and Khetsile the manager to Angel the angelic chef! They all make sure you know them and they know you! This intimacy of interest in who you are and genuine desire that you love Nogatsaa as much as they do, means that ultimately you do!
Nogatsaa 2023 during a FAM Trip visit - in interesting visit with very dry conditions. We had a dead elephant at the waterhole which made for interesting animal interactions, the prescence of lions around camp. We even saw the resident hippo investigating and licking the carcass!
Beautiful Roan antelope coming to drink at Nogatsaa Pan. Over the course of the morning we saw quite a few, as well as some Sable.
On our final morning - collecting ourselves together for some breakfast, when the wild dogs arrived. About 6 adults appeared by the pans in a very alert state. They drank quickly and then jogged off - an excited group started discussing this sighting. Our waiter TT then appeared saying they were behind the kitchen and the vehicles were on the way to take us. Breakfast forgotten….. we were off.
A little later we returned to complete the breakdast, check out and move on our way. This is typical Nogatsaa Pans. Everything comes to you, they move the plans to suit the drama!
Nogatsaa Pans is open from April - December - when the rains establish many of the animals disperse into the Chobe and surrounds, but as the bush starts drying out after summer (April) the game continues to concentrate around the Pans and sightings get more and more frequent at the camp.
For more details and rates drop me an email at alex@tortilismarketing.com
Entering a New Marketing Landscape
Quietly optimistic…. this is the term I have bravely used this last week. Too many times I have hyped myself up in regards to the road to recovery, to be bitterly disappointed as another restriction, or variant has entered the stage. But dare I plan the next 6 months as we see the new green shoots of hope slowly seep into our inboxes?
Green shoots of hope….
I am encouraged by the increasing number of enquiries for reservations, for the first arrival of our postponements back into the lodge and the steady stream of STO rate requests. There are also heaps of site inspections moving around the region - getting back in touch with Africa and all that she has to offer.
But what will our marketing landscape look like? What can we afford to do, and what will bring our biggest return on our precious investment. The annual tradeshows are under fierce scrutiny and as one of our biggest ticket items, this year it is sadly falling short. Once the anchor of our communications with our trade partners is sadly taking a back seat again this year.
The preference at the moment in my eyes is the strategic in market events - you can find Tortilis Marketing at the following events:
Our Africa - the valuable virtual show 22 March - 1 April
Experience Africa - highly anticipated specialist African Show in London 22 - 24 June
Africa’s Eden - the 2nd physical show for this amazing regional event - showcasing Botswana and the other SADC countries - November 2022
Contact me for more info of these shows
In addition we are hoping to host FAM Trips in May around the trade shows for the buyers that do take the leap and come over.
Contact me for more info on these FAM Trips
Rates Freeze for Botswana Lodges
SETARI CAMP AND MUCHENJE SAFARI LODGE have announced that they are freezing their rates for 2021. Contact me for their updated rates.
IN ADDITION DONT FORGET THE PAY 2 STAY 3 in LOW SEASON.
Combine the watery wilderness and the safari sensation for an incredible experience in two of Botswana's Iconic Landscapes - the Chobe and the Okavango.
Stay updated, get all your ducks in a row - and stay safe.
All the best
Alex
While we wait for this storm to pass......
Dear All,
As we wait for this storm to pass, we find ourselves in these difficult times swinging from frantically managing bookings to time on our hands to reflect. An interesting challenge for me has been to keep mentally and spiritually strong, as my life has slowed and the distractions, that usually keep the days ticking by, have disappeared. We gauge our days by meals and have considered taking up many extra-curricular activities. Although I don't think the 21 days will be enough for me to master French or Yoga!!!
Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that along with the lodges, I am here to assist and help in anyway I can. I am availabe for online training, skype discussions, what app chats from whatever media you choose.
In addition, we will be brainstorming for ideas when the clouds clear and we come out the otherside into our African sunshine.
But in the meantime - hear from the lodges below.... and dont hesitate to contact me.
Skype: alexandra.johnston
Email: alex@tortilismarketing.com
for Zoom or a chat :)
Thanks and keep safe
Alex
At Muchenje Safari Lodge last week, the staff and managers were able to witness the return of the annual flood to the western flood plains. Within 2 days the Chobe once again flooded the plains infront of the camp with a glistening sheen of pure magic. The abundance of water this year, should still be around when we return to welcoming our guests in a few weeks time.
Setari Camp is witnessing the rush of the sweet Okavango waters filling up the lagoons and channels around camp and bringing this watery paradise into its fullness. With levels looking the best in years - the staff and our resident Pels Fishing Owls will keep a beady eye on the camp for us during these quiet times.
Anvil Bay's famous sundowners on the lake have a new addition - a 7m long traditional Mozambican dhow. Experience a romantic and memorable sunset with loved ones whilst cruising the calm waters of the nearby lake. It is an activity that guests can enjoy all year-round at no additional cost, accompanied by snacks and beverages, complemented by the blissful sound of birds and serene silence. The perfect backdrop to fall in love with Africa...
Leopard Mountain has spent some time producing a series of exciting videos to inspire your agents and guests - have a look and let me know whatelse we can do to bring those dreams to your guests.
A Reason for Every Season
As we approach our southern African safari low season, here are some helpful reminders for why there is a reason for every season and why the summers are an amazing time to visit our lodges.
Chundukwa River Lodge – witness the Mighty Zambezi
The summer months are an impressive time to view the falls as the Zambezi levels are at their highest, making for an impressive sight from the Livingstone side of the falls and if you want to get completely soaked…. Then visit the Zimbabwe side too! Great specials available at Chundukwa making a long stay over this time so worth it!
Muchenje Safari Lodge – Chobe vs Kruger
The rainy season can often leave visitors wondering if they are going to be able to do much with the onset of the summer rains – I had put together some statistics comparing Kruger summer rainfall with Chobe – and there’s not much in it – but see the below the benefits of the Chobe…
- During the summer months the prices are more comparative to the Kruger Lodges
- TThe Chobe Flood plains allow for great open unrestricted viewing
- Arrival of the next generation of antelope mean exciting predator action and cute baby pictures
- More safari activities at Muchenje – water and land activities allow a more varied experience
Setari Camp – Birding Paradise
I challenge anyone to not be interested in birds by the time they reach the jetty at Setari after taking the boat transfer from the airstrip. Being flanked by 15 pied kingfishers as you cruise down the channels brings a whole new dimension to a safari. the arrival of summer brings many additional migrant species, making this the birding Mecca!
Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge – Keeping it cool!
Zululand is renown for its summer temperatures, but now with new installed airconditioning and your own private plunge pool - you can keep cool throughout the summer months.
Anvil Bay – Marine Safaris
Never underestimate the marine safari that guests at Anvil Bay enjoy all year round – but the most fascinating of times is over summer when the loggerhead & leatherback turtles heave themselves over the sand to nest.
Silly Season and Beyond
James Gifford has been at Setari recently and provided us with an amazing array of images featuring the activities, the camp as well as drone imagery to illustrate the watery wilderness that Setari is surrounded by.
Kate has updated the WETU ibrochure and below is our link to the new pictures. Grab a coffee and come and explore Setari with us…..you will be convinced that Setari is a must include in any Okavango itinerary.
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hpekmh2bjzzm9cf/AAAnfWiKRu-jbxT-2JPSj_Lta?dl=0
The Rhino War is raging on and all the efforts to save them cost money. Leopard Mountain is 150% committed to their plight – not only on a daily basis with reserve security, but now James & Jian our rangers took to the skies – watch this video from the LM Social media team highlighting their brave commitment.
https://www.facebook.com/LeopardMountain/videos/2067596866680427/
With the temperatures rising the balmy winter sea temperatures also start to rise. The winter visitors, our Humpback Whales are in their glory and the summer visitors are beginning to make more appearances. Our leatherback and loggerhead turtles will be coming closer to shore and hanging around the reefs to start nesting plan. Our team on the ground will be assisting the Marine Reserve in their research as usual.
The summer is beginning to burst into life around Chundukwa - so get caught up in the excitement with the latest specials on the Chundukwa website and make the most of a stay on the banks of the Zambezi…. Summer Special - 4 night package $1580 per person Valid 1 Nov - 19 Dec & 1 Jan - 31 Mar 2020
For many years Muchenje has enjoyed introducing the finer nuances of a safari to their guests through a walking safari. This year as the drought continues in Botswana both Ali & Synack, our two walking guides, have been tracing the spoor and watching the signs of the season to share with the guests. The returning migrant birds, the starting of the nesting season, not knowing what might be around the next corner all add to the thrill of being on foot.
Owner Run - not Run of the Mill
#1 Short Chain of Command
All my portfolio members have the main decision holders / owners within a call away. Great for the highest of issues and where necessary on site to handle things on the ground.
Chundukwa River Lodge is the perfect example of owner run – for Doug Evans & Gail Kleinschmidt, Chundukwa is home – and always has been. Over the last 4 years they have systematically ensured that every corner of this beautiful bush camp reflects their passion and personalities. They ensure that one of them has a meaningful conversational with their guests every day – take a look at their Tripadvisor to see the effect that they have on their guests.
#2 Unique Experiences
If a lodge has its own personality and individual energy through the owners, then the experience that your guests are offered will be also individual and not a run of the mill experience.
Muchenje Safari Lodge is driven to bring new experiences to your guests – from the lodge with private sundowners, new dining venues, countless different and varied activities to further explore the Chobe and enjoy a safari with us. Chobe is sometimes seen as a tame safari in Botswana – but the outstanding safari experience ensures that it is anything but. With countless ways to enjoy this quieter western side of the Chobe – every day is different.
#3 Vested Interest
Often the passion that fuels an owner to run a lodge is a desire to connect with Africa on a deeper level. As with all the owners in the Tortilis portfolio there is a deep-seated need to conserve –through community empowerment and conservation protection.
Anvil Bay is a perfect blend of both and triumphs this mandate in the remotest of destinations, thanks to the dream of the founders Paul & Ricky Bell. Having spent many happy holidays exploring this unique coastline – Anvil has evolved into unique and perfect African beach destination. Every detail and every activity was imagined and experienced before being offered to your guests. Intricate knowledge and logistical know how, bring amazing experiences showcasing this beach destination and most importantly provide a sustainable business for the Chemucane Community who are the Bell’s business partners.
#4 Flexibility
With owners on the ground or within shouting distance, one of the most sought-after assets of an owner run property is its flexibility. Being able to adapt experiences to your individual guests is key to a happy guest and therefore great feedback and spreading the word.
Setari Camp is relatively new to the trade but is proving it can run with the big dogs! This is due to the hugely experienced owners Grant Truthe & Kate Holmes – with decades of safari life and operator wisdom Grant and Kate knew exactly what the industry needed – a true water camp. Providing exactly what the market needed is one thing, but cleverly managing to offer as much as possible (water wise) in this remote island in the heart of the Okavango without the guests even realising they needed. Understanding your limits but making it work for each guest is mastery. Plus there is a bigger picture that we will be able to tell you soon!
#5 Personal Touch
Although every lodge is different – there is an individualism that can be found in owner run lodges. An owner’s personality and flair brings a unique flavour and energy to their lodge. You will often find with owner run properties, that they don’t do the complete overhauls, but rather have an evolving style that fits budgets and changing fashions.
Leopard Mountain is a true testimony to this – with regular upgrades over the years, Leopard Mountain has evolved its identity over the years. Ryan and Jo Vivier, that live at the lodge, have their finger on the pulse of current trends and the recent upgrades reflect their style and taste yet provide for the international expectations of a classic safari lodge. Careful planning and considered advice has meant that this little gem in the heart of Zululand eased itself up the ranks of 4 star and without even trying flew into the 5 star market.
MARCH 2017 NEWS FROM TORTILIS FAMILY...AS THE BOOKING SEASON MARCHES ON
MUCHENJE SAFARI LODGE, CHOBE RESERVE
Welcome to Toff and Kidd - Muchenje's new management team
“We are excited and very pleased to join Muchenje Safari Lodge, giving us the opportunity to grow with this beautiful lodge as we improve the services and facilities for our guests and the whole team that is the Muchenje Family”, said Toff & Kiddy.
MUCHENJE SAFARI LODGE, CHOBE RESERVE
Welcome to Toff and Kidd - Muchenje's new management team
Toff & Kiddy - The new Management Team
“We are excited and very pleased to join Muchenje Safari Lodge, giving us the opportunity to grow with this beautiful lodge as we improve the services and facilities for our guests and the whole team that is the Muchenje Family”, said Toff & Kiddy. “Keen to develop Muchenje together with the growth in tourism in our country and in particular, the Chobe region and to involve our local communities. We are certain that Muchenje will continue to be the flagship of the Western side of the Chobe.”
With their experience and enthusiasm for Botswana, Chobe and the wilderness in general we look forward to seeing Muchenje flourish under their care.
LEOPARD MOUNTAIN, Zululand RSA - Manyoni Game Reserve
It is with great excitement that Leopard Mountain moves into 2018 contracting season. With enviable occupancies for several consistent years, the Vivier team have decided to move the lodge into a new era. The new 2018 rates of R3995 pppns still offer outstanding value considering the game experience at the Manyoni Game Reserve (previously known as Zululand Rhino Reserve) – with lions, cheetah and wild dogs as regular sightings. In conjunction with the rate rise – Leopard Mountain will be making significant changes to the outside of the chalets – with a new deck and outside shower & living space, and most significantly reducing the number of chalets to 8.
HATARI, ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK & SHU'MATA, NR KILIMANJARO
MEET THE FAMILY
Welcome to our first Meet the Family section in our blog – Each of our lodges in the Tortilis Portfolio are family owned and I thought I would take this opportunity to introduce you to the faces behind the lodges.
Marlies, Joerg and their son Donyo are the driving force of Hatari & Shu’mata. Donyo who is 13 years old is an avid scientist and exceptional birder – his passion for all things wild is legendary around Hatari. So, when the latest Albino Baboon was spotted in Arusha National Park, we thought we would pick his brains about this interesting sighting.
Q: Have you seen the Albino Baboon?
Yes I’ve seen more than one albino baboon in our Arusha National Park. I’ve seen various ages of the albino baboon family but mostly young ones.
Q: Does it behave differently from other baby baboons?
The male albino baboon was alone which isn't normal. I’ve witness that the mothers of albinos protect the little ones far more than ordinary baboon babies.
Q: Do the other troop members play with it differently?
The babies were very protected and didn't play.
Q: Has this happened before in Arusha National Park?
Yes _ there are Albino baboons in Arusha National Park. We see them regularly.
Q: Why do you think it happens?
Must be the same reason humans become albino
Q: Do they survive to become adults?
Yes – I’ve seen a male adult
Q: Is it in the Park or have you seen it close to Hatari?
It was on the Hatari meadow. The babies we keep seeing more around the Momella Lakes.
Q: What is your most memorable wildlife experience at Hatari or Shu’mata?
Oh that was when I was 8 years old - on the 1st of May 2012 - on my way to school. The Leopard was so close that I could see every single detail of his face. We were both surprised. After I calmed down we then passed a herd of elephants. What a day. I couldn't wait to get back home and share this amazing news with my mum. (Wow!! What a trip to school……)
Q: If you had a whole day free to do whatever you wanted – what would you do?
Walk around and explore
Albino Baboons near Hatari Lodge
ANVIL BAY, MAPUTO SPECIAL RESERVE, MOZAMBIQUE
The beach is somewhere everyone dreams of going at some point each year – whether we are kids, teenagers, newlyweds or maybe just in dire need of some R&R….. Anvil Bay has all you need whatever your age! As someone said this week – it is the place where people come together.
Family Specials, Honeymoon Specials or Long stay specials are all available for our guests (and our friends in the trade) – contact us for these special's commissionable rates.
TULI SAFARI LODGE, BOTSWANA
If anyone asks me what my favourite animals are….. Bat Eared foxes always win hands down…. And Tuli have them a plenty! Here is some feisty action from a recent guest on game drive… the young family of cheetah cubs are fascinated by this fella.
Acacia Tortilis - or Umbrella Tree - is an iconic sight on the African Landscape, and so our lodges provide authentic experiences in unique destinations in Southern and East Africa.
Tortilis Marketing is a portfolio of Owner Run Independent Safari Lodges collaborating under a marketing umbrella.
Trade Shows 2017 - WTM Africa & Indaba 2017
With the Southern African Trade Shows just around the corner I am delighted to be arranging appointments at both WTM Africa and Indaba for the Tortilis Family. Please contact me on the buttons below if you are coming to the show and if you would like to hear more about our lodges.
Hatari & Shu'mata - Tanzania
Muchenje - Botswana
Tuli Safari Lodge - Botswana
Anvil Bay - Mozambique
Leopard Mountain - South Africa
Chundukwa River Lodge - Zambia