How to keep Christmas Green

Have yourself a Merry Green Christmas! This is a guest post from Nicole Lloyd at Idwala Game Lodge

Here are Idwala’s top tips for an eco-friendly Christmas:

E-Cards from Dyer Island Conservation

1. The Christmas tree – plastic Christmas trees use various substances which are harmful to the environment. Therefore we recommend using a potted tree or getting creative with dried trees or driftwood (great for anyone holidaying at the coast!). If nothing else, plant a tree in your garden and watch it grow during 2011 

2. Christmas cards – It’s unbelievable how many Christmas cards are sent out all over the world. Try to send an electronic greeting using many of the e-cards available online or buy cards made from recycled paper. If you receive Christmas cards, do the right thing after the big day, and recycle them. Send on of these cute penguin Christmas cards and support a good cause too

3. Wrapping paper – Tons and tons of wrapping paper is sold around the world during the festive season. To help do your bit for the environment consider sending gifts that don’t need wrapping (like gift vouchers), using recycled paper and using string or ribbon instead of sticky tape 

4. Candles – for the big meal, if you’re using candles, consider buying soy, beeswax or vegetable-based candles. The paraffin candles commonly used are not good for your health or for the environment.

5. Batteries – try to give gifts that don’t use batteries or change over to rechargeable batteries. Batteries contain toxic chemicals, don’t biodegrade and are difficult to recycle.

6. Give the best gift – Of course, there is always the option to give the gift that keeps on giving. Your time spent assisting at a charity or environmental organization can make a big difference.

7. Lights – Twinkling away all day and night, fairy lights around the house and Christmas tree can take up a lot of energy. Remember to switch them off when they’re not being used. Keep an eye out for solar powered rope lights which are making their way into stores everywhere. 

8. Kitchen tips – while cooking that turkey or gammon, remember to take care when using the oven. When you want to check your food, remove from the oven and close the oven door. Standing in front of an open oven wastes heat and energy. Only load your dishwasher once it is full and run an economy program. And finally, buy organic. Don’t support the intensive factory farms and the horrible effects they have on the environment (and your health). 

9. Plan ahead – as you open your gifts think about the next Christmas. We suggest saving wrapping paper, ribbon, gift bags and unused Christmas cards for Christmas 2011. 

10. Buy a thoughtful gift – Think about the impact your gift has on the environment. Buy local, buy fair-trade and support companies who are doing more than their part to help save our earth. Spread the word – Give a book on a subject related to helping the environment. Buy someone a beautifully made cloth shopping bag so that they won’t be using plastic shopping bags.

Idwala Game Lodge wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2011

Read more about Idwala Game Lodge on The Game Lodge Index

Lodge of the Week - Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge

Brilliantly Boutique

Kichaka is a five star boutique-style lodge set on the edge of a large waterhole in the Assegai Bush Valley in the Lalibela Game Reserve. The focus here is first rate luxury and service with every whim attended to as you laze about the lodge. Staff will go out of their way to ensure that guests are guaranteed a special stay. The ten lavish suites are spacious, tastefully decorated and furnished with a vast array of accessories. Each suite has its own private heated plunge pool overlooking the waterhole which is regularly visited by wildlife including the local favourite ‘Harry’ the hippo. The main lodge is made up of stone and thatch elements (blending it seamlessly into the natural environment) and consists of a number of lounges, bar and an upstairs library all with a view of the waterhole. The bar and main lounge area is very sociable and guests will find themselves sitting around a warm fire in the evenings, discussing the days’ highlights. The fine dining offers an impressive menu and excellent food, complimented with decent wine (Kichaka has an excellent selection) and good company – one rounds off the day quite nicely. Spa services are offered for those looking for alternative healing and pampering and guests have the option of having treatments done in the privacy of their own rooms.

Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge is found in the malaria-free and Big 5 Lalibela Game Reserve. Game viewing in open Land Cruisers is typically brilliant as experienced guides traverse the 7500 hectare reserve in search of the abundant wildlife and famous 5. For those who enjoy being out in the open, walking trails are offered on the adjacent reserve as well as fishing and horse riding on other nearby properties. After evening meals guests are often treated to star gazing (weather permitting) with the knowledgeable guides and state of the art telescope – a humbling experience for anyone who sees the vast expanse of the solar system. Lalibela Game Reserve is one of the older additions to the Eastern Capes’ reserve canon and like many private reserves in the area, lies on reclaimed farm land. In certain areas, evidence of previous farming activity can be seen and the occasional exotic trees and plants still persist, although measures are being taken to eradicate these invasive species and restore Lalibela to what it once looked like.

With Kichaka’s exclusivity and outstanding service the lodge is the perfect destination for couples and honeymooners. Children are allowed at the lodge but only those over eight years making it a suitable getaway for families and for anyone else looking for a luxurious bush safari

RATINGS BREAKDOWN
Core Ratings:	Sun Rays
Lodge and Camp	7.6
Safari Experience	6.4
Service	9.3
Facilities	6.2
Unique Rating	4.4
Conservation	1.9
Social involvement	1.5
OVERALL RATING:	7.5

Read more about Kichaka Game Lodge on The Game Lodge Index

Baby Elephant Mock Charging - Shamwari Game Reserve

Read more about Shamwari Game Reserve on The Game Lodge Index

Lodges that provide EXCEPTIONAL service

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge - Dining Experience

 Service really adds to any safari experience. The small touches, attention to detail and friendly staff turn an ordinary lodge into something exceptional. You can view a complete list of the Top 20 Lodges in South Africa for Service on The Game Lodge Index. Here we have chosen a few to share with you - in no particular order of course.

Marataba Safari Company

Marataba Safari Company

Exquisite!

Set amongst thick acacia bushveld overlooking a waterhole, with a stream running through camp is the Marataba Safari Company’s exquisite luxury tented camp. The main lodge boasts a brilliant architectural design bringing together 5 Star decadence and rustic historical charm. Fifteen tented suites look on to an awe inspiring Waterberg cliff face, glowing red during the daylight hours. Each suite has ample space, a simple yet elegant layout and offers the guest perfect seclusion and privacy - the lodge is a romantic utopia. The dining is a delightful experience where meals are alternated between a formal style (where an a la carte menu is offered) and informal where platters and buffets are provided. The staff are thoroughly efficient, friendly and go out of their way to provide you with superb service.

Royal Malewane

Royal Malewane

Indulgent Bush Experience

Tucked away in the privately owned Thornybush Game Reserve, Royal Malewane welcomes guests to indulge in its splendid old African colonial décor. The rooms consist of 6 lavish suites, 2 opulent royal suites and the regal African Villa. Royal Malewane accommodates up to 32 guests, but with a decent selection of common areas, guests are ensured of privacy throughout. The camp is not protected by a perimeter fence and guests are escorted to their rooms which are separated by elegant wooden walkways. Each room has a private plunge pool and private ‘sala’ (recreational lazing area), a large free-standing bath, spacious indoor shower and an outdoor shower. Dining at Royal Malewane is exceptional and no meal is served in the same setting more than once during your stay. Complimenting the menu is a noteworthy selection of top quality wine, carefully paired to enhance one’s culinary experience. Meals are served indoors or outdoors at the lodge and, weather permitting, out in the bush. The chef puts together different themed meals such as fireside dining and tasting menus, all with an African fusion flavour. The formal service is on par with any luxury hotel in the world. Along with the spa at Royal Malewane, there is a large lap pool and a decent gym available for guests to use. Throughout a typical stay at Royal Malewane, one will notice the staff’s absolute care and commitment which ensures a memorable experience where no attention to detail is spared.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge 

 A Luxury Bush Cocoon

Earth Lodge can easily be missed as it has been designed in such a way as to blend in with the natural surroundings. The lodge appears to have been carved into the ground and uses earth inspired designs to create a nice balance between building structure and natural resources. Accommodating 26 guests, Earth Lodge offers an intimate experience in a modern, eco-inspired environment. The rooms have a style all their own, built into the slope and almost invisible to passers-by, the ultimate in privacy. Earth texture, natural light source and modern accessory are present in the 12 rooms and Amber Suite. The Amber suite is generously spacious with various areas including a private steam room, study and kitchen. Encouraging guests to relax, the lodge boasts an award-winning health-spa including a meditation garden and onsite wildlife art gallery. The swimming pool is complimented by a large natural water feature. Each room has its own splash pool with a view that does not compromise on privacy while the indoor seating areas offer typically stunning views of the landscape. A culinary delight, Earth Lodge offers Afro-fusion food that combines traditional African and Asian elements. There is an extensive wine cellar with a selection of interesting local and international wines. Wine tastings or private dinners can be arranged in the cellar. Dinning is offered indoors or outdoors at Earth Lodge, including the African-style bush boma. The Earth Lodge staff are friendly and professional, creating an informal and tranquil atmosphere.

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

Hilltop Decadence

A warm welcome by a professional team sets the tone for your stay at Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge. The impressive walkways meander along the rocks and through the trees to lead you to your room. There are eleven lavishly decorated rooms, all with large windows, overlooking the plains and watering hole in front of the lodge. The twelfth room is the suitably romantic honeymoon suite. Little Madikwe is an option for anyone seeking maximum privacy and comfort in these surroundings. A smaller version of the main lodge with two adjoining rooms and your own private pool and exclusive game ranger, you can holiday to your own schedule and cater your stay according to your own needs. In between game drives, guests can treat themselves to the lodges’ professional health-spa, choose a book from their extensive library or workout in the gym. Meals are served in the dining area, al fresco overlooking the watering hole or in the outside bush boma. Special touches during your stay make the experience memorable and this makes Madikwe Hills especially attractive for anyone who is on honeymoon or who wants to host an intimate wedding. The lodge is not suited to guests who require disabled facilities or for very young children.

Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge

Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge

Brilliantly Boutique

Kichaka is a five star boutique-style lodge set on the edge of a large waterhole in the Assegai Bush Valley in the Lalibela Game Reserve. The focus here is first rate luxury and service with every whim attended to as you laze about the lodge. Staff will go out of their way to ensure that guests are guaranteed a special stay. The ten lavish suites are spacious, tastefully decorated and furnished with a vast array of accessories. Each suite has its own private heated plunge pool overlooking the waterhole which is regularly visited by wildlife including the local favourite ‘Harry’ the hippo. The main lodge is made up of stone and thatch elements (blending it seamlessly into the natural environment) and consists of a number of lounges, bar and an upstairs library all with a view of the waterhole. The bar and main lounge area is very sociable and guests will find themselves sitting around a warm fire in the evenings, discussing the days’ highlights. The fine dining offers an impressive menu and excellent food, complimented with decent wine (Kichaka has an excellent selection) and good company – one rounds off the day quite nicely. Spa services are offered for those looking for alternative healing and pampering and guests have the option of having treatments done in the privacy of their own rooms.

Simbambili Game Lodge

Simbambilli Game Lodge

The Essence of Hospitality

Set on a dry riverbed, Simbambili’s eight rooms offer views of an active watering hole and savannah grassland in the distance. Guests can enjoy the setting from their personal plunge pool and ‘sala’ (relaxation area) while the thick vegetation creates additional privacy without compromising on the view. Each guest is appointed an efficient butler who is available during the stay to ensure the experience is more memorable. Despite only accommodating sixteen guests, the common area can quickly feel crowded if everyone is using the small seating area. The watering hole is frequented by game throughout the year and guests can expect good viewings from their room. Meals are served on the deck, outdoors in one of the boma’s or on special nights - in the dry riverbed for a truly memorable dining experience. The food has a strong South African influence and offers guests a good selection of venison and other local treats. Simbambilis’ owners and management are very involved in the local community. They assist by supplying the community with seeds to grow vegetables, which the lodge in turn then buy back from them. The conference centre doubles up as a lounge with a television when not in use. Guests can also relax in the special health spa or catch a quick workout in the well equipped gym.

A Photo Day in Kruger - Kerry de Bruyn

This is a guest post by Kerry de Bruyn. the original post appeared on her blog and all images are copywright to Kerry


This blog has been waiting far too long to be posted. With all of my other shoots in between I forgot to give this one some much deserved love and attention. All of these pictures were taken in a day visit to the Kruger, apart from two which were taken in Sabie river bungalows. Although I didn’t see any predators, the birdlife was wonderful and so was the behaviour and interaction of the primates. With only one day I was quite happy with the results, hope you enjoy them too!

Thompson's Gazelle with Werewolf Syndrome - more images

This is a follow up to the image we posted on 12 October 2010 showing the Thompson's Gazelle with "Werewolf Syndrome" (See the first post here)

New sighting and photo of 'mutant' gazelle in the Masai Mara

New image of the 'mutant' Thompson's gazelle. Photo credit Robert Berntsen.

Strange Thompson's gazelle in the Masai Mara from Wildlife Extra News. The original post can be viewed here

We first reported on this very unusual gazelle in August, when we reproduced some images taken by well known photographer Paolo Torchio. We have now received another image of the same gazelle (presumably) kindly sent to us by Robert Berntsen. The image was taken in the Masai Mara on 31st October, showing that the unusual gazelle is still alive and well. We have also had a sighting reported from the east (Narok) side of the Mara River, south of Talek River - late in July 2010.

Mr Berntsen reports that "It looked like a young male Thomson but with deformed head and upper neck. In addition there were long black strands of hair all over its body. On its head the blood vessels seem to be abnormally thick. Its size and behaviour looked quit normal and was accompanied by other Thomson's gazelles, although seemed to stay in the outskirts of the group."

VERY UNUSUAL THOMPSON'S GAZELLE SEEN ON THE MASAI MARA. PHOTO CREDIT ROBERT BERNTSEN.

 

The photographer, Paolo Torchio, (click here to go to his website) was  born in Italy but moved to Kenya 20 years ago, where he has made his  name as a photographer and a conservationist.     Photo credit Paolo Torchio.

Mutations and oddities
The most well know 'oddities' in the animal world are unusual, or lack of, colour displayed by some animals. Often classed as Albinos, this can occur across a wide range of species, though it is often not albinism but leucism.

Our thanks to Wildlife Direct as the source of this story. 

Photo of the Week - Rhino by Richard Millar

Photo by Richard Millar Photography

You can view more of Richard Millar's photography on his website - Richard Millar Photography

As the total number of rhinos poached in South Africa reaches 261, we're reminding all our blog readers to get vocal and show your support at Stop Rhino Poaching. This is where you can sign a petition to show support, get information about the rhinos in South Africa and report suspicious behaviour.

Read more about wildlife, game reserve and game lodges on The Game Lodge Index