     |  Phinda Private Game Reserve in the Maputaland region of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, has been selected as one of 38 companies worldwide by Condé Nast Traveler as a leader in social responsibility, winning the World Savers Award for Best in Wildlife Conservation.
17 judges selected Phinda from 142 applications from the travel industry and rated how they exercise social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation, and health. Phinda was one of 38 finalists.
Just 17 years ago, the land that was to become Phinda Private Game Reserve was largely dilapidated, degraded and bankrupt under agriculture and poor land management. Today it is regarded as one of South Africa’s most remarkable luxurious ecotourism destinations and conservation successes as it brought together a pioneering partnership between private enterprise, conservation ideals and a rewarding relationship with the neighbouring communities of Makhasa and Mnqobokazi, who are now owners of the land.
'We are honoured to be recognised by Condé Nast Traveler for the positive contributions Phinda has made to wildlife conservation in KwaZulu-Natal and for ensuring the ongoing biodiversity of the Reserve’s 23 000 hectares of prime wilderness land,' said Claire Howse, CC Africa’s Sustainability Director.
'We believe it’s no longer sufficient for travel operators to simply cite employment statistics as their contribution to responsible tourism,' says Howse. 'Companies like CC Africa are working hard to show meaningful benefits to conservation and, particularly, local communities.
To do this their first responsibility is to provide a desirable product to their market and a viable, successful business model. Thus the ultimate power of Phinda is that we have proved it can be done. Now, as an industry, we can all more confidently pursue our mutual dream to defend and restore our continent’s heritage, so we’re exceptionally proud of the example Phinda has set.'
For more information visit www.phinda.com |
 Photograph courtesy of Tswalu LodgeLovers of the wide open spaces in the Kalahari will be delighted to hear that luxury lodge, Tswalu, is open once again. The soft, organic interiors have been decorated in fresh linens and cottons to reflect the beautifully muted tones of the Kalahari. Secluded decks and salas have also been built, so that guests can relax in the shade and enjoy the never ending but constantly changing vista of the Kalahari in the warm afternoons. A new gym has also been added (with a range of cardiovascular training equipment) and the Sanctuary Spa given a fresh new look. All design ideas were influenced by Tswalu's environmental responsibility philosophy. The original pool has been replaced with a smaller rim-flow pool as well as a second, solar heated pool. Tswalu's pool water is now treated with new technology, which substantially reduces the need for chemicals and any water used in clearing the filters is collected and recycled, thereby minimising water loss. Extensive, new shaded areas have reduced the need for air-conditioning and, in addition to low-flow bathroom fittings, lighting has been reduced. Tswalu is recommended by Fair Trade in Tourism in South Africa and is a member of Relais & Chateaux. Recent awards: Condé Nast Traveler 2007 World Savers Award First Choice Responsible Tourism Award (Best for Conservation of Endangered Species 2006) Relais & Chateaux Global Environmental Trophy 2006 http://www.tswalu.com
Well known for his stunning lodge interiors, CC Africa’s Creative Director, Chris Brown has added humour this time, while maintaining the earthy glamour he does so well. Xudum Delta Lodge is isolated on its own island. Here’s what Chris says you should expect: ‘It has nine playfully crafted suites boasting handsome tones of chocolate and ebony. There will be quirky accents of recycled rubber, enamel and metal and all timber work will be rough-hewn and chunky. Everything will be created around the privacy of the suites with multi layers, rooftop sleepouts, private plunge pools and lofty hideouts. Xaranna Tented Camp will be lighter and more airy to correlate with its gentler geographical location. The nine sleek en-suite safari tents will be cool and light with a delicate colour scheme of fatigue (khaki) and soft lily pink. Each suite will be organic in design with a combination of canvas and bleached timber, boasting private plunge pools and salas with mesmerising Delta views.’ For more information http://www.ccafrica.com or watch our Safari section for an update once it opens…
   | Conservation Corporation Africa’s 10-day Botswana Explorer Expedition is a mobile tent safari that takes you to some of the most stunning wilderness regions – but from 1 June 2008, you’ll do so with the most important creature comfort – your own private en-suite bathroom.
For more information http://www.ccafrica.com
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   | Toka Leya tented camp is hidden on the banks of the Zambezi River about 12km upstream from Victoria Falls. Each of its 12 safari-style, en-suite tents has a magnificent view of the river.
Wilderness Safaris’ five Zambia camps have pioneered the use of innovative energy-saving systems to lower its environmental footprint.
The aim is to implement the initiatives at other camps by the end of the year.
For more information about Wilderness Safaris http://www.wilderness-safaris.com |
 These romantic bush camps, each with six tents only, are in the game-rich Chobe National Park. Chobe Under Canvas is on or near the Chobe River and Savute Under Canvas is in the Savute Corner of the central Chobe. Experience the real soul of Africa under the stars and in style, even though there is no electricity or running water. For more information on safari experiences with Conservation Corporation Africa visit http://www.ccafrica.com
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