Extraordinary February Newsletter

Lion update at Imbali Safari Lodge – Kruger National Park

One of the shortest nights of 2017 become one of the longest nights for two of the Matimba males on the Mluwati concession. The confrontation between the Matimba males and the Avoca males had been building up for a couple of days already. The Matimba males showed up at the Imbali waterhole early morning on the 20th of December. Later that afternoon the roars from both groups of lions can be heard.

No one knows exactly what happened during the night but it became evident that the Avoca males were not retreating when they were heard roaring early the next morning very close to Imbali. It seems they might have separated the Matimbas on purpose by trying to draw away the stronger one.

These young males first walked onto the Imbali concession at the end of November 2017. It was confirmed that these males came from further north in Greater Kruger Park area and they were known as the Avoca male coalition. The Mluwati males who are resident males on the concession have recently been active only in the southern part of the concession and to the north the two old Matimbas were keeping a low profile. The perfect opportunity for these three to establish a territory of their own. Over the next couple of weeks, it became clear that they meant business as they became more vocal and started scent marking everywhere they went.

The Matimba males were last seen earlier this month at the South Western Boundary lying approximately 50m in on the Manyeleti side.

We wait in anticipation to see what will happen with all the lions in the area and in terms of some of our Sub adult males, which are coming to that time in their lives when they will be pushed out on their own. One of the hardest journeys they will have is when they become nomads without any protection of their mothers. This however might be easier if they stay together as strength comes in numbers, they will continue to roam across different areas until they have grown stronger.

More Lokuthula Lodges available to book in 2018

We are delighted to advise that Lokuthula Lodges are now even easier to book, with a further five units becoming available earlier this month. Four two-bedroom lodges and one three-bedroom lodge have been added to the existing stock of 14 lodges. There are now 19 Lokuthula Lodges available in the Victoria Falls. Several upgrades will be completed by June 2018, including new queen beds replacing the double beds in the master bedrooms, as well as air conditioning to be installed in the enclosed bedrooms.

The lodges may either be booked on a bed and breakfast or a self-catering basis. Breakfast is served at The Boma Café, set in a tranquil garden setting adjacent to the lodges’ swimming pool area. The lodges are ideal for tour groups, FIT, leisure, families and self-drive markets, as well as destination wedding parties, and those seeking more economic accommodation options.

Extraordinary at ITB

We will be showcasing our distinctive collection of luxury lodges and hotels in Southern Africa at ITB Berlin, Hall 20, Stand 132.

ITB Berlin will also be our first showcase of our new addition; the Mont d’Or properties (in South Africa). The properties are independently owned and offer Extraordinary a great opportunity to expand geographically. Located in Pretoria, Clarens, Bloemfontein, Prince Albert and Franschhoek the properties offer unique designs, personalized service and wonderful locations.

Ngoma Safari Lodge

Ngoma Safari Lodge has completed the Jetty at Ihaha and it is in operation. The game viewing from the boat brings its own unique experience and this is the best hidden secret in the Chobe National Park.

Situated within the Chobe Forest Reserve, with panoramic views overlooking the Chobe River and Floodplain. Offering 5 star bush lodge suites, incorporating rustic accents with natural materials and finishes throughout, constructed of local brick under thatch. Central area includes private ‘refresh and relax’ pools located in the external living area of each suite.