ROBIN POPE SAFARIS SALUTES MALAWI’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY WITH GOLDEN SAFARI PACKAGE

LILONGWE, Malawi (02/2014) Robin Pope Safaris, the preeminent safari operator known for its innovative safaris, announces a celebratory Golden Safari Package to honor this year’s 50^th anniversary of Malawi’s independence. The Southern African country is known as “the warm heart of Africa” for the friendliness of its people.

Rates for the 11-night package with stays at Mkulumadzi, Huntingdon House, Miyala Camp (alternatively Mvuu Lodge for travel before July 2014) and Pumulani start at US3772 per person sharing and are valid beginning April 2014 through January 2015, and include such highlights as:

Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Malawi’s largest protected areas covering more than 173,000 acres and the only Big 5 reserve in the country. It is located within the Miombo woodland eco region.

Satemwa Tea Estate is among Malawi’s most respected and established tea and coffee producers, managed and operated by third generation members of the Cathcart Kay family.  Colonial-style Huntingdon House, the heart of the estate, is surrounded by rolling manicured gardens with secret patios and terraces, and evokes the colorful history of Malawi’s spectacular Shire Highlands.

Liwonde National Park, considered to be one of the top birding locations in Southern Africa, offers fine game viewing, beautiful riverine surroundings and excellent bird watching. Much of the terrain is Shire River floodplains, much loved by the healthy population of elephants in the park.

Nankumba Peninsula Explorer David Livingstone dubbed Lake Malawi the “lake of stars,” because of its shimmering waters. It contains more variety of fish than any fresh water body in the world. Nankumba is one of the lake’s most beautiful shores and borders Lake Malawi National Park, established to protect the cichlid fish, endemic to the lake. 

For detailed itinerary or more information, contact info@robinpopesafaris.net or visit: www.robinpopesafaris.net

ROBIN POPE SAFARIS ACQUIRES STANLEY SAFARI LODGE AND OFFERS “BEST OF AFRICA CIRCUIT”

MFUWE, Zambia (06/2013) Robin Pope Safaris’ (RPS) recent acquisition of Stanley Safari Lodge makes it possible to see a trio of Africa’s greatest sights, all on one incredible tour. Robin Pope Safaris’ Best of Africa Circuit will take visitors through Livingstone, Zambia, home of Victoria Falls, on to game-rich South Luangwa National Park, and then to beautiful Lake Malawi in Malawi. The itinerary includes three nights at Stanley Safari Lodge, followed by three nights at Luangwa River Camp, and culminates in four nights at Pumulani Lodge.  Rates start at US$4456 per person and include all transfers between the properties, as well as full board, local drinks, all activities (except motorized water sports) and laundry. Offer is valid from April to November.

The trip begins in Livingstone, Zambia, where visitors can see Victoria Falls. In addition to being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the falls features the largest curtain of falling water in the world. Its spray, billowing up to 1300 feet, can be seen 30 miles away.  After visiting the falls, guests can enjoy lunch or high tea on Livingstone Island, river tours on the Zambezi, and sunset cruises. Wildlife enthusiasts can take elephant rides and game-viewing treks to see the rare white rhino. Canoeing, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and micro lighting are available for thrill-seekers.

After thoroughly exploring Livingstone, guests are taken to the South Luangwa National Park, which many consider to be the best wildlife sanctuary in all of Africa. Located at the end of the Great Rift Valley, and bordered by the Luangwa River, the pristine park is home to 60 different species of animals and over 400 species of birds. Guests can explore all of the natural riches that the park has to offer on safari and even visit the Chipembele Wildlife Orphanage.

Animals aren’t the only inhabitants of the region, however: RPS will take guests to Kawaza Village to interact with locals and engage with their culture.

What better way to conclude the journey than a trip to the beach at Nankumba Peninsula? Revered as one of the lake’s most beautiful shores, these pristine white sand beaches are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will stay at the ruggedly opulent Pumulani Lodge in Malawi. With all imaginable water sports available, there’s enough to entertain even the biggest fitness buff. In the immortal words of Candide, this truly is the best of all possible worlds.

For more information, contact:  info@robinpopesafaris.net or visit www.robinpopesafaris.net

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 On arrival at Livingstone International Airport a representative from Stanley Safaris will meet and transfer you to the lodge (20 mins), where you will settle into your accommodation. Stanley Safari Lodge is located on the hills overlooking the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls in a bush location. Accommodation is in 10 uniquely designed chalets that are constructed of teak and local stone. Some are open-fronted; others closed and designed in Colonial-style brick and tile. Each features a plunge pool and private balcony ensuring spectacular views overlooking the Zambezi River. STANLEY SAFARI LODGE

Days 2 & 3 There is a wide range of activities on offer in the area that can be booked through the lodge.  These include trips to see the falls, town museums and markets and sunset cruises. For the more adventurous, Livingstone boasts a whole host of adrenaline-filled activities including whitewater rafting, bungee jumping and micro lighting. Or you may just wish to rest in camp and enjoy the spectacular scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The day will end with a relaxed dinner and perhaps drinks in the wine cellar. STANLEY SAFARI LODGE

Day 4 Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred by vehicle to Livingstone Airport to connect with your onward flight to Mfuwe, South Luangwa. A guide from Robin Pope Safaris will meet you at Mfuwe Airport for transfer through colorful village life to Luangwa River Camp. The ten-bedded camp is situated opposite the Luangwa Wafwa (a game-rich area of the park) in the Upper Lupande Game Management Area. It offers all the creature comforts of a lodge yet with all the intimacy, tailored activities and flexible mealtimes you come to expect from a bush camp. The camp is unique with its décor of locally crafted and handmade accessories. The main area is elevated between 3 and 9 ½ feet on wooden decks, affording great views to the park and river. The swimming pool is sunk into the deck, linked by a waterfall. Seating areas are all elevated and open plan with a bar area as well as a dining and reading area. Depending on your arrival time, you may settle in for some lunch, a siesta, then set off on an afternoon activity. There is an option to turn back after sundowners or continue to see what nocturnal animals you can spot, returning to camp by 8pm. LUANGWA RIVER CAMP

Days 5 & 6 The next couple of days will be spent as you wish. You can opt to go walking activity or game drive; or even both.  Those with a knack for shopping can take a trip to Tribal Textiles for locally printed fabrics which are crafted into various items – perfect for souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Perhaps a trip to Kawaza Village to experience an authentic Zambian village, interact with the locals and even sample a local meal. Nothing is set in stone; you can discuss your specific interests with your guide. LUANGWA RIVER CAMP

Day 7 After an early breakfast, transfer to Mfuwe Airport for your flight to Lilongwe. The flight time to Lilongwe is approximately 50 minutes. On arrival at Lilongwe’s Kamuzu Airport, you will be met by our staff, who will assist with immigration procedures and the payment of airport taxes. Then onto your road transfer to Pumulani. Pumulani is situated on the West side of the Nankumba Peninsula in the South end of Lake Malawi – romantically called “The Lake of Stars”. The ten villas are scattered around the hillside and are individual in shape and style, but all have a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. The front sliding doors open onto the deck – elevated above the ground, affording optimal views. The central dining and bar area is high above the lake with the most spectacular views and leads onto an expansive deck. The infinity swimming pool is on a lower terraced deck. The lake shore bar offers light snacks as well as refreshments. Meals will be served in the dining area, on the beach or by arrangement on your private deck. The stunning setting of the lodge and the unique comfort of the rooms means that many guests choose to make relaxation their main activity, but there are enough activities available to keep guests busy. PUMULANI

Day 8 Enjoy the first full day of relaxation at Pumulani. Our remote beach setting is ideal for those who simply want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear blue waters of the lake. Those who prefer can take a dive in the infinity swimming pool near the central dining area with grand views over the lake. For those seeking activity we offer many water sports such as snorkelling, fishing, sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, wake boarding and tubing (all motorized activities are excluded). At the end of the day, climb aboard our dhow and let our experienced local crewmen take you sailing into the sunset. PUMULANI

Day 9 Lake Malawi is the world’s most ecologically diverse lake. Its crystal clear waters are home to more than a thousand species of fish, including hundreds of species of colorful cichlids. We offer special diving courses at the best diving spots near one of the islands. For those who are interested in the real Malawian village life, we offer guided walks through one of the local villages. Malawians are renowned for being among the friendliest people in Africa and during your stay you will have the opportunity to meet them. OR you can also simply relax in the beautiful and tranquil scenery or enjoy many other activities. PUMULANI

Day 10 Your last day at the lodge. Today you have the opportunity to continue to relax in the beautiful surroundings, play on the lake, or take a walk to the local village for an insight into Malawian village life, while locals explain their traditions and rituals. PUMULANI

Day 11 Today you will be transferred back to Lilongwe in time for the connecting flight back home. END OF SAFARI

FULLY-STAFFED PRIVATE VILLA OFFERED IN FAVORED NEW DESTINATION, MALAWI GREAT GETAWAY FOR FAMILY OR GROUP OF FRIENDS

Kaya Mawa, an eco-luxe beach resort on Likoma Island in Lake Malawi, offers Ndomo Point House, a private villa for those travelers desirous of total seclusion and personal service, but who don’t want to relinquish the benefits of being at a lodge. A magical getaway for a family or a group of friends, Ndomo Point House comprises four en suite bedrooms, a sitting room, family kitchen, pool, courtyard, five terraces and decks all set on a private beach with uninterrupted views across Lake Malawi. The house is fully staffed with a nanny, a cook, a housekeeper, ground staff and watchmen.

Rates start at $460 per person per night with a three-night minimum and a minimum of four and maximum of eight adults.  Rate includes:  All meals, accommodations, transfer to and from Likoma Aerodrome to Kaya Mawa, mountain bikes, walks, kayaking, snorkeling and sailing.

The dream of owners James and Suzie Lightfoot, Ndomo Point House was originally planned as a two-bedroom beach “shack.”  Over three years the shack evolved into a character-filled villa containing elements derived from the couple’s journeys in Zambia, Zanzibar, Malawi and Lamu, Kenya’s oldest continually inhabited town and a World Heritage Site.

All the facilities of Kaya Mawa Lodge are just six-tenths of a mile away:  a PADI dive school, the Lake's only kite-boarding school, plus kayaks and quad bikes are there for the taking. Guests are invited to spend as much time as they like at the lodge, and even take their meals there, should they wish.  A boat and vehicles are just a radio call away.

Ndomo Point House is located on the Southwestern corner of Likoma Island with views across to the neighboring island, Chizimulu, and on to mainland Malawi. A year-round sunset is a secret surprise!

For more information, contact:  James@kayamawa.com

LION’S ROAR RETURNS TO MAJETE FOREST IN MALAWI MAKING IT A BIG FIVE DESTINATION

LILONGWE, Malawi (05/2012)  Through the generous sponsorship of Robin Pope Safaris, four lions from South Africa will re-locate in August to Majete Wildlife Reserve in southwestern Malawi, completing the return of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant) to this pristine forest situated in the lower Shire River valley.

The reintroduction of lions marks a milestone in the rehabilitation of the 173,000-acre Majete reserve. At one time lions were common in the Lower Shire Valley, but over the years, poaching took its toll, and no lions have been reported in the region since the 1980’s.

Since assuming management of the park in 2003, the non-profit organization, African Parks, has been systematically resurrecting Majete: the park has been fenced, infrastructure developed and more than 12 different species, totaling some 2500 animals, introduced. The safety that the perimeter fence and law enforcement programs provide, along with an abundance of prey, has now created an environment in which lions can once again thrive.

Because there are no suitable lion populations available in Malawi, two male and two female lions, are being sourced through the North West Parks and Tourism Board in South Africa. Healthy animals at the beginning of their reproductive lives have been selected from Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Reserve. The intricate relocation process will involve weeks of quarantine on both sides of the border. It will be a costly operation with holding facilities erected and flights chartered to transport the predators to their new home. These costs are being covered by Robin Pope Safaris (RPS), the celebrated photographic safari company with properties in both Zambia and Malawi, including the luxury lodge Mkulumadzi in Majete. RPS is passionate about and committed to the preservation of the eco-systems within which they operate, as evidenced by their numerous responsible tourism initiatives, from reforestation programs, to financial support for a number of conservations projects (e.g., preservation of various wildlife and fish species), from recycling to energy-saving ventures and more.

The reintroduction of lions to the Majete forest will not only restore the park to a naturally-functioning eco-system, but will once again render Majete a Big Five reserve: it already boasts elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard.  With the opening last year Robin Pope Safaris’ luxury lodge, Mkulumadzi, and with the only Big Five game-viewing experience available in Malawi, Majete’s future looks bright.

Contact:  African Parks

Mrs. Jane Edge, Director of Marketing and Philanthropy

Or visit: www.african-parks.org

Contact: Robin Pope Safaris

info@robinpopesafaris.net

Or visit: www.robinpopesafaris.net

EXPERT AFRICA SHOWCASES BICYCLE OPTIONS: EXPLORE AFRICA AT YOUR OWN PACE

London, England (04/12) - Expert Africa, one of the leading designers and operators of personalized tours to Southern Africa, has outlined several places that offer the opportunity to explore by bicycle. Wind rushing through the hair…rays of sunshine caressing the skin…and the world before you – pedal on.

Zambia:

Amid the lush rift valley enclosed by steep escarpment walls, is Zambia’s South Luangwa. Tafika Camp, located on the banks of the Luangwa overlooking the South Luangwa National Park, offers one of the more adventurous biking options: mountain-bike safaris. Bike rides usually leave after afternoon tea and consist of a small group - usually not more than four guests. The group is led by a highly experienced cyclist and accompanied by an armed National Park scout. These bikes are also used to visit the nearby Mkasanga village and the local school and clinic that Tafika supports. Visitors are introduced to the village elders who are always pleased to show the guests around.

On the Livingstone side of Victoria Falls, the very peaceful Islands_of_Siankaba is built on two densely forested islands, linked by suspension bridges. This lodge provides mountain bikes with frames made out of bamboo - the bamboo is almost as good as carbon, with a much lower carbon footprint. The bikes are used by visitors to see the local villages and school, as well as to take in the 1.5km nature trail.


Malawi:

Likoma Island, located in Lake Malawi, is home to implausibly clear waters, sandy beaches and secluded coves. The one lodge on this island is Kaya_Mawa with rooms widely spread around a golden beach and the two rocky headlands that bind it. Kaya Maya provides two kinds of bikes for visitors to explore the island: mountain bikes and quad-bikes. Both of these bikes can navigate the small footpaths that criss-cross the area without the interference of traffic. Lots of the other islanders bicycle, so the bikes are a great way to blend in with the local community. They are also much less ostentatious than 4WDs when arriving in a local village – the traveler feels less self-conscious and the villagers are more accepting.

Expert Africa offers an eight day package combining both Tafika Camp and Islands of Siankaba, as well as Kaya Mawa in Malawi with rates starting at $5,647 per person sharing. This is on an all inclusive basis and includes flights and transfers from Johannesburg.


Mozambique:

In northern Mozambique, the rugged and untouched tropical coastline is dotted with small villages and a few beach lodges. One of these lodges is Nuarro Mozambique. The beach is a short walk down the hill from Nuarro; and, the bush is filled with natural paths that lead to each of Nuarro’s chalets. Venture into the local villages by bicycle, accompanied by a member of the staff who comes from the area. Thus, you will receive a very warm welcome and numerous requests for photos. Many also utilize the bikes to travel to a rather remote lighthouse.

Expert Africa offers a seven day package at Nuarro Mozambique for $2,121 per person sharing. This includes full board accommodation, non-motorized activities which do not require a local guide, as well as flight and transfers from Johannesburg. Motorized activities with local guides are additional and payable locally.


For more information, contact info@expertafrica.com or visit www.expertafrica.com.

ROBIN POPE SAFARIS TO OPEN MKULUMADZI LUXURY SAFARI LODGE IN MAJETE WILDLIFE RESERVE, AN UNKNOWN AREA OF MALAWI

LILONGWE, Malawi- In Fall of 2011, Robin Pope Safaris will open family- and eco-friendly Mkulumadzi Lodge and eight luxury chalets on a 17,000-acre private concession within the 173,000-acre Majete Wildlife Reserve in Southern Malawi. Situated at the confluence of the Mkulumadzi and Shire rivers, the reserve is dominated by mixed bushwillow woodlands and mosaics of riparian forest. The spacious chalets, designed with unique vegetated green roofs, are tucked beneath the surrounding riverine forest of marulas, leadwood and star chestnut trees.

Majete Wildlife Reserve was established in 1955, and has been under the aegis of the non-profit African Parks Network since 2003. Robin Pope Safaris is the only company which has received permission to build within the reserve. Remote, pristine and exclusive, Majete offers a safari experince that is unique.

Four of the Big Five -- elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard – are to be found in Majete and the fifth, lions, are to be re-introduced in 2012. Other animals include the eland, nyala, zebra, sable, hartebeest, baboons, vervet monkeys, hyenas and many more. Some 250 species of birds inhabit Majete including the rock pratincole, Pels fishing owl, the Lappet-faced vulture and the African skimmer, to name a few.
Those who prefer the active life can enjoy game drives, boating safaris, bush walks, hiking, black rhino tracking, cultural tours, birding trips on the Shire River and to nearby Elephant Marsh and game-viewing from a hide.

Children of all ages will be welcomed at Mkulumadzi. Best times to visit for comfort: April to September Best times to visit for photography and birding: October to March.

For more information: contact Rita@robinpopesafaris.net.

JOIN LEGENDARY GUIDE ROBIN POPE ON REMOTE & REMARKABLE NYIKA, MALAWI SAFARI

South Luangwa, ZAMBIA (02/2010) Robin Pope Safaris, the vaunted Zambia-based luxury safari company, is offering a fabulous 11-day package to remote areas of Zambia and to the remarkable alpine wilderness of Malawi, where legendary guide Robin Pope will join safari-goers.

The safari begins in the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, one of the last unspoiled wilderness areas of Africa and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary on the continent. It ends in the Nankumba Peninsula, the southern end of Malawi’s beautiful namesake lake, poetically referred to as “Lake of the Stars.”.Along the way, Robin Pope Safaris will take guests to Malawi’s highland plateau of Nyika, known for its phenomenally broad vistas and herds of endemic wildlife.

Day 1 Arrive Lilungwe (capital of Malawi) Fly to Mfuwe Airport in Zambia. En route to Nsefu camp, experience colorful village life and travel through the South Luangwa National Park to catch sightings of its extraordinary game. Robin Pope owns the only two camps in this section of the park. Nsefu, on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River, was the first game camp in Zambia and dates to the early 1950’s.

At Nsefu, each of six rondavals contains luxurious en suite facilities, large picture windows and new wooden verandas that afford spectacular views of the river. Lunch is followed by a siesta before the afternoon and evening game drives. Overnight at Nsefu.

Days 2 and 3 Drive or walk through the ebony groves, explore the Nsefu section of the National Park or take an all-day picnic drive to the salt pans. Overnight at Nsefu.

Day 4 Following breakfast, guests are transferred back to Mfuwe Airport for a charter flight to Nyika National Park in Malawi. Here they will meet the legendary Robin Pope, who will be their guide for the next four nights. Guests have the option of participating in an activity or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Nyika. Stay at Chelinda.

Days 5 – 7 Guests enjoy a rare African alpine experience at high altitude on the Nyika Plateau within the Nyika National Park in Malawi -- panoramic views of rolling hills, isolated ridges and open grasslands, and access to rich pockets of endemic wildlife including Burchell’s zebra, Roan antelope, common reedbuck, eland, bushbuck, warthog and leopard. Activities include day and night nature drives, nature walks, mountain biking, fly-fishing for trout, and birding (some 400 bird species can be found around the camp). Stay at Chelinda

Day 8 Transfer via charter flight to the shores of Lake Malawi. Drive to Pumulani, a lodge comprising ten villas nestled into the hillside. Each villa is unique in shape and style; all contain a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. Front sliding doors open onto the elevated deck affording optimal views of the lake. A lake shore bar offers light snacks and refreshments. Meals are served in the dining area, on the beach, or by arrangement on a guest’s private deck. Stay at Pumulani.

Day 9 – Relax at Pumulani. The remote beach setting is ideal for soaking up the sun, swimming in the clear blue waters of the lake or taking a dive in the infinity swimming pool. Water sports run the gamut from snorkeling, fishing, sailing and kayaking to water-skiing, wake boarding and fun tube riding (motorized activities are excluded). At day’s end, board the dhow and sail into the sunset. Stay at Pumulani.


Day 10 – Choose a special picnic tour of one of the islands (not included in rate) as the boat scoots along the shores of Lake Malawi National Park, a World Heritage site since 1984. Spot fish eagles and other birds. The lake is so clear observers can see marine life from aboard the boat. Lake Malawi is the world’s most ecologically diverse lake, home to more than a thousand species of fish including hundreds of species of colorful cichlids. Diving courses are offered at the best diving spot. For those interested in seeing the real Malawian village life, guided walks through a local village are offered. Malawians are renowned for being among the friendliest people in Africa.

Day 11 – Transfer back to Monkey Bay airstrip for a light aircraft flight to Lilongwe in time for return flight home.
Nyika Safari with Robin Pope
• Itinerary Nsefu 3 nights, Chelinda 4 nights (Robin Pope leads this portion), Pumulani 3 nights.
• Includes All transfers by road and air starting and ending in Lilongwe, all accommodation on a full board basis, all drinks other than premium wines and spirits, all activities, laundry
• Excludes Mfuwe airport departure tax at $25, gratuities, visa fees where applicable + international flights
• Rates USD$ 7720 per person - minimum 4 people for trip to take off
• Valid Oct 2010 – set departures i.e. 4th Oct and 8th Oct
• Extra nights normal rate applies
For more information contact: reservations@robinpopesafaris.net of visit our website: www.robinpope.net