Wednesday 30 June 2021

News from Hideaways: Mana Pools Safari Lodge, Kariba Safari Lodge and Shashani Matobo Hills Lodge

Hideaways open three new lodges in Zimbabwe.

Hideaways has recently announced the addition of three new properties to their portfolio: Mana Pools Safari Lodge, Kariba Safari Lodge and Shashani Matobo Hills Lodge. The three lodges are based in a variety of popular tourism regions around Zimbabwe.

In a conscious and consistent effort to learn from nature, creating and adapting with awareness, Hideaways has been spending time laying foundations for growth. 

A year ago, Dr. Ian McCallum, author of Ecological Intelligence, planted a seed. He highlighted how nature creates new opportunities from challenging situations, utilising life’s collateral damage to build stronger, versatile and more resilient circumstances. It is through challenge we find inspiration, mirroring nature in her resilience, courageously seeking and creating new life.

In this perspective and determination for new, Hideaways’ would like to announce the addition of two properties to our portfolio: Mana Pools Safari Lodge and Kariba Safari Lodge. Two wildly different properties in two wild areas of Zimbabwe, these additions amplify our already distinctive brand, bringing their respective and proudly Zimbabwean characters to the travel terrain.

Mana Pools Safari Lodge

Located in northern Zimbabwe, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Mana Pools Safari Lodge provides a true ‘out of africa’ experience. It’s remote location deems the park largely untouched, the wild maintaining sovereignty. 

Being on the Eastern border of Mana Pools National Park, the area shares ancient wildlife corridors with Zambia, its grand Zambezi Valley Escarpment the backdrop to the horizon. This element of the untamed, coupled with that of the river flowing through, creates a haven for wildlife.

Shashani Matobo Hills, upon the hills of Matobos, encourages one to observe the landscape in all its splendour, from patio to the horizon, and beyond.

Located in Mana Pools, northern Zimbabwe, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Mana Pools Safari Lodge provides a true ‘out of Africa’ experience.

Kariba Safari Lodge was built with the vision of providing a holistic African experience, one of land, lake and local culture; offering encounters with the unexplored, fringed in luxury.

Kariba is the definition of wild Africa – uncharted, remote and abundant with game. Time spent here, cruising through Lake Kariba waterways, offers unparalleled game viewing and photographic opportunities with scenery and sunset unmatched anywhere on the African continent. 

Kariba Safari Lodge was built with the vision of providing a holistic African experience, one of land, lake and local culture; offering encounters with the unexplored, fringed in luxury.

Hideaways’ welcomes these two properties with pride, taking the seed of inspiration from nature and growing throughout beautiful Zimbabwe. These partnerships have not only allowed us to grow, but enable our guests to experience the biodiverse wonders of Zimbabwe, each area distinctly unique and life-changing. 

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Tuesday 29 June 2021

Qatar Airways flights to Lusaka and Harare | Рейсы Катар в Лусаку и Хараре Южная Африка

Qatar Airways announces the launch of flights to Lusaka and Harare from the 6th of August 2021.

Qatar Airways announces their plans for a new service linking Lusaka and Harare with their global network of more than 140 destinations. With the addition of these two new routes, expected to be serviced by their Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the airline will then be operating over 100 weekly flights to destinations around Africa.

Expected flight schedule starting 6 August 2021:

Wednesday, Friday and Sunday

Doha (DOH) to Lusaka (LUN) QR1455 departs: 02:20 arrives: 08:50

Lusaka (LUN) to Harare (HRE) QR1455 departs: 10:20 arrives: 11:20

Harare (HRE) to Lusaka (LUN) QR1456 departs: 18:55 arrives 19:55

Lusaka (LUN) to Doha (DOH) QR1456 departs: 21:25 arrive 05:55 (+1)

Africa continues to be an area of strong growth for Qatar Airways and launching this service will support the development of the economy and tourism sector in both countries.” - H E Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive.

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Monday 28 June 2021

Namibia: West Coast shipwrecks: "Dunedin Star" & "Dunmuir" | Кораблекрушения Намибии

Namibia: West Coast shipwrecks: "Dunedin Star" & "Dunmuir" | Кораблекрушения у западного побережья Намибии

Facebook groups:

NAMIBIA

SKELETON COAST NATIONAL PARK

SHIPWRECKS

22. "Dunedin Star"

Date: 29.11.1942

North of Cape Fria

The Dunedin Star was 13 000 tons British refrigerated cargo passenger liner, designed to ship frozen meat from Australia and New Zealand to the United Kingdom. It stranded on 29 November 1942, 40 km south of the Kunene River mouth and north of Cape Fria with 106 passengers and crew members on board. 42 people managed to get to the shore, the rest were rescued by Norwegian cargo ship Temeraire.

Various rescue attempts were undertaken from Cape Town, Walvis Bay and Windhoek. A Lockheed Ventura bomber plane was sent from the Cape of Good Hope (Cape Town) to land with supplies and water for survivors who had made it to shore. Unfortunately plane bogged down on landing in deep loose sand. A second bomber was sent to replenish supplies but it did not land, merely dropping its supplies. Second plane crashed into the ocean on the way back. The three crewmen made it to shore and began their long walk south. A Walvis Bay tug boat, SS Sir Charles Elliott and two of its crew members were also lost just north of Rocky Point during the rescue attempt. The crew of the stranded tug attempted to row a dinghy with five volunteers ashore, but it capsized. Three were washed out onto the beach, more dead than alive. Mathias Koraseb somehow managed to climb back onto the tug. The other man, first mate Angus McIntyre, carried away by the current, was never seen again. The next day, Koraseb and two others, wearing life jackets, made a desperate attempt to reach the shore. They managed to do so, but Koraseb died a few minutes after reaching safety. His grave is on the beach north of Rocky Point. With five men ashore, the heavy lifeboat was launched and rowed through the surf to the tug and rescued all their surviving shipmates.

A land rescue convoy, led by Captain Smith of the South African Police, set out from Windhoek through Kaokoland and the Namib Desert to reach those survivors who were ashore. The convoy reached the beach and rescued those survivors who had not been transferred by lifeboat to the Nerine, a converted minesweeper.

Smith's 11 trucks got back to Windhoek on 23 December, where the survivors stayed before continuing overland by train. The valuable cargo of war materials was totally lost. The hundreds of rubber truck tyres destined for the Eastern war front, washed up on the Skeleton Coast National Park, but now up to a kilometre inland can be seen even now.

22.1. "Dunmuir"

Date: 1971

Walvis Bay

This fishing vessel foundered NNW of the Walvis Bay area.

YouTube: Exploring Namibia TV
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Friday 18 June 2021

South Africa: Drakensberg a great agritourism destination | Дракенсберг Южная Африка

What makes the Drakensberg in South Africa such a great agri-tourism destination?

Have you ever considered to spend your holiday on a “real, working farm” which offers all kinds of agri-tourism attractions. You can bottle feed lambs, collect eggs from the free range hens, watch the cows being milked and help pick the ingredients for your evening meal. Strawberries taste best eaten directly as you pick them.

Some of the activities on offer include learning to make cheese, animal petting farms and so much more. Children delight in petting the animals and watching some of the farming activities. Life is lived at a gentler pace where outdoors and open space are valued more than video games.

Ideas for your agri-tourism experience

Learn to make cheese. At Antbear Lodge the milk comes from their own cows and this one day course allows you to learn how to make cheese in small quantities. Generally its best to start with the simple feta cheeses and work your way up to mozzarella, goude and peccorino. There is something special about being able to take home some cheese that you have just helped make.

Get your hands dirty with some woodwork - Woodworking skills can be learned and at the same time you can make something to take back with you.

Experience farm life be warned, once you have been here a few days you might want to stay forever.

Great for children

Petting farm – Young children can enjoy interacting with farm animals and watch the cow being milked. Of course they need to be up early. Then there are chickens, geese, ducks, turkeys, horses, donkeys, a mule, sheep, pigs and more to be discovered.

Mountain biking – There is no greater fun than getting the bikes out and riding the dirt trails around the farm.

Hiking Trails – Farms are renowned for the excellent hiking opportunities they offer. Get out and explore the hills with spectacular views of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Horse Rides – If you are going to visit a farm then you are in for a treat. Go for an outride and enjoy the nature.

Activities available while in these agri-tourism environments.

Enjoy cool river walks or long hillside hikes through the trails surrounding the cottages and neighboring farms.

Cheese Tasting. At Marakesh Cheese Farm Visitors can expect to be taken through a tasting of between 8 to 10 different types of cheese, (depending on the time of year) with an informative discussion about each type of cheese. This is one that is not to be missed.

Romesco offers olive tasting with some of the most interesting options being chili Kalamata or even a berry kalamata.

Visit the Drakensberg Brewery and enjoy a pure mountain brew.

Spend the day at a farmers market. Expect to find local produce, bespoke goods and services, an eatery, and a beer garden. There is certainly something for everyone and remember local food and supplies support local families!

Agri-Tourism experiences in the Drakensberg

Antbear Eco Lodge & Farm

Antbear Farm is a working farm that has a heard of Nguni Cattle and has a small scale organic food producing farming environment for self sufficiency. Previously it was a dairy farm that had been left to go to ruin. Andrew and Conny have done extraordinary things that have brought new life to a once abandoned piece of land. The farm is now home to horses, donkeys, goats, ducks, chickens, geese, turkeys, dogs, cows, pigs and a few cats most of which have been taken in as rescues.

Antbear Lodge through its agritourism concept gives you a chance to learn about the lives of rural people, their culture and their customs while creating employment. Agritourism results in skills development, closer communities, and new opportunities for rural women.  The potential of Agritourism in South Africa to uplift local communities is huge and is very much supported by us.

Young children can enjoy interacting with farm animals and watch the cow being milked. Of course they need to be up early. Then there are chickens, geese, ducks, turkeys, horses, donkeys, a mule, sheep, pigs and more to be discovered. You can try bass fishing in one of the farm dams and there is plenty of excellent bird watching all over the farm.

Antbear Lodge excels at hospitality. This is an agri-tourism holiday you will remember forever.

Ardmore Guest Farm

Ardmore Guest Farm is situated in the scenic Champagne Valley in the Central Drakensberg. You will enjoy stunning views of the three highest peaks in South Africa. Mafadi (highest peak at 3450m) Injisuti Dome (second highest at 3410m) and the majestic Champagne Castle (third highest at 3377m) which are all situated in South Africa’s latest World Heritage Site. This is a malaria free area.

You will receiving a warm welcome which makes all the difference and that's what Ardmore Guest Farm excels at. This is a great for children too who will love the ducks, goats, sheep and the fact that you can bring your pet along.

Great food and friendly staff. If you want a tranquil spot in a great location, then Ardmore Guest Farm is for you! Your stay will be memorable and thoroughly enjoyed.

Experience the Drakensberg, Estcourt, 3310, South Africa.

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Thursday 17 June 2021

Namibia: West Coast shipwrecks: "Diaz" & "Dolphin" | Кораблекрушения Намибии

Namibia: West Coast shipwrecks: "Diaz" & "Dolphin" | Кораблекрушения у западного побережья Намибии

Facebook groups:

NAMIBIA

SKELETON COAST NATIONAL PARK

SHIPWRECKS

20. "Diaz"

Date: 08.02.1926

Northcliff near Saddle Hill

21. "Dolphin"

Date: 18.01.1960

Conception Bay

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Wednesday 16 June 2021

Namibia: Chobe Water Villas news & Kasane border opening | Чобе Вилла Намибия

Opening of the Kasane Border - Chobe Water Villas

I trust this email finds you well in these challenging times.

It is with great pleasure, to share with the industry that the Kasane border between Botswana and Namibia is now open, which makes access to Chobe Water Villas much smoother.

We would thus like to share the process when entering from Kasane. All guests can travel through Kasane again. However, if they do not want to go the PCR route, it is still possible to gain access to the lodge through the Namibian side (please check in with the lodge as it very much depends on the dry/wet season). However, if guests enter through Kasane, please note that a valid negative PCR test is required (please familiarize yourself with the travel regulations for the respective countries you will be traveling through).

If guests depart via Kasane, the tests can be done at Kasane River Border the day before departure. Please note that it is a nose and throat swab and results will be available the next day. It’s an easy process & is 15 minutes (one way) by boat from our lodge. The cost is Pula 500 and the guest/s need to pay in CASH and in Pula. This is very important as they do not have card facilities.

Once guests arrive at Kasane immigration we will pick them up by boat to Impalila Island for passport stamping, the drive by boat is 20 minutes to go to Impalila Island and 20 minutes to Chobe Water Villas.

If guests would be interested in doing day trips to Vic Falls, we can also facilitate this. Zimbabwe’s land borders are still closed but we can arrange the flights and transfers.

As for Chobe Park land activities, we are offering this again, guests however will need a valid negative PCR test (which will be an additional charge for the guest). We have done both activities and it has worked very well.

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Tuesday 15 June 2021

Mozambique: Santorini news & updates | Санторини Мозамбик Африка

AMS hospital Testing facilities update

The Nhamacunda Medical Centre, operated by AMS in Vilankulo, is committed to offering health care solutions to all residents and visitors.

The concept of this health centre emerged from a clear demand for quality health care services by the community.

The AMS private hospital in Vilanculos now has a PCR laboratory that processes Covid-19 samples on their premises and the turnaround in receiving the test results are 24 to 48 hours. We have managed to make an arrangement with the hospital and they will send a nurse to the Villa and the tests will be conducted in the privacy of our clients suites. The test results are then emailed to clients/villa office once processed and the results can be printed for return flight requirements.

Santorini Mozambique paints a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday experience , with the romance of a small Greek village set in the heart of a raw African landscape. Luxurious villas coupled with a laid-back atmosphere allow our guests to relax and unwind , while endless Archipelago views and a plethora of private experiences invites you to explore the adventurous side of Mozambique together.

It’s always a pleasure to treat our clients and we are delighted to offer you a special rate exclusive to our loyal Southern African guests.

SPECIAL VALUE ADD-ONS 

(For bookings of 3 nights or more) 

° Welcome spa treatment - choose between a 15 Minute hand or foot ritual treatment at Spa na Colina

° Complimentary private snorkeling trip to Magaruque island on one of Santorini’s boats including a picnic lunch, refreshments and an optional stop at Pansy island.

° (Park fees excluded)

LONG STAY SPECIAL

° Stay 4 nights and only pay for 3 nights -1 night free of charge.

RATE INCLUSIONS

° Return airport transfers

° 3 meals daily - Breakfast, Lunch, Pre-dinner snacks & Dinner

° All non-alcoholic beverages and alcoholic beverages including beers, house wines, selected

° spirits, and a choice of 3 after dinner specials as well as a choice of 2 complimentary

° signature cocktails for on site consumption only.

° Wi-Fi

° Laundry services

BOOKING TERMS  

° A minimum of 2 nights must be booked for the special rates to apply.

° 50% single supplement will apply to all single occupancy bookings.

° Bookings for Southern African Countries residents only. Proof of residence required for all travellers (work permit / residency permit)

° General Terms & Conditions apply and this special offer cannot be combined with other special offerings.

NEW EXPERIENCES

Power Smoothies

The Baobab fruit is edible, and the seed powder is often used in foods because of its nutrients, health benefits, and because it is a natural preservative. It has a distinct Citrus flavour, so it goes without saying that it is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, carbohydrates, and phosphorus.

Moringa powder can be used to protect tissue (liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs), and to reduce pain. Antioxidants help protect cells against free radicals, which are produced by digesting food, smoking, and exposure to radiation. Antioxidants from plant-based sources such as moringa powder are considered best.

We like to use Moringa and Baobab powder in our breakfast smoothies. These delicious smoothies are a quick and easy way to nourish and fuel your body with all the nutrients you need to power through the day. Baobab & Moringa help with the slow release of energy which is perfect for those early morning starts watching the sunrise over the ocean from your stand up paddle board or kayak. The beauty benefits of the superfoods and avocados are an added bonus!

VILLA UPGRADES

New Private dining areas

Delight in deluxe dining that draws on farm-to-table ingredients from Santorini’s vegetable garden and seafood fresh from the ocean in our various private dining venues:

Our Main Villa courtyard hosts 3 different dining areas; you can enjoy the privacy of a dining table setup on the green lawn by the trickling water feature, or gaze over the rim flow pool tucked away in the wind protected corner of the courtyard.

The rooftop Sala dining table has gorgeous views of the courtyard and swimming pool from above, and is lit up in a Bombay Sapphire blue each night.

The Main Villa front patio overlooking the wonders of the Bazaruto Archipelago islands is a multi-functional living, relaxation and dining area next to the pale blue martini pool which faces directly onto the ever changing ocean.

Our Spa courtyard is transformed into a romantic private dining venue under a star-studded sky where the day’s fresh sea harvest on the menu complements the venue perfectly.

Paraiso Escondido is our newest private dining experience (perfect for that romantic last dinner celebration) by our honeymoon couples, or festive celebration by our multi-generational family bookings. Our guests are treated with Greek style meze platters and champagne and left to enjoy this Greek inspired open air venue. 

Beach picnics in front of the Villa are available free of charge for breakfast or lunch. The spilling waves and stretch of virtually untouched beach creates a place where the rest of the world seems far away.

COMMUNITY / CONSERVATION

Santorini Footprints

We are so fortunate to be surrounded by Africa’s wild beauty and the kind and wonderful Mozambican people. We believe in giving back to those in need around us through various initiatives including the resources and time of our Santorini team and owners and monetary support for education and mentors. For every night spent by our guests at Santorini, 1% of revenue is donated by Santorini to our Santorini Footprints Projects. Through our various initiatives we aim to leave a sustainable and positive footprint in the lives and land of this Mozambican coastline.

SANTORINI SMILES

At Santorini, we are more than just a team. We are a family of talented, diverse individuals.

MEET JORGE

Jorge's smile lightens up the kitchen – he works in the scullery of the main kitchen but is often found singing in the prep stations, assisting the chefs with baking fresh breads and learning how to make desserts. He has got a huge passion for food and will undoubtedly one day be serving our guests some delectable meals as a chef in the Santorini Kitchen. Jorge started at Santorini working in the gardens in 2018 and even though he is working in the kitchen now, he still loves spending time in the garden in his spare time. Jorge dreams of becoming a chef.

MEET SANTOS

As a long standing member of Santorini Family, Santos is meticulous in his work as laundry supervisor. Although he rarely meets our lovely guests, he is the face behind the beautifully gift wrapped laundry our guests frequently comment on. Santos started working at Santorini in 2015. He would love to learn how to drive and get his drivers license. Santos dreams of having his own business one day so that he can build a house for his children.

Santorini Mozambique
Barrio 1 de Outubro
Inhambane
Vilanculos 0000
Mozambique

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Monday 14 June 2021

Namibia: Big Sky Lodges takes over management of Villa Margherita in Swakopmund | Вилла Маргарита Намибия

Big Sky Lodges takes over full management of Villa Margherita

"Do anything but let it produce joy." Walt Whitman

The hotel’s name is a tribute to a remarkable woman who inspired many and amongst them the founders of Villa Margherita. “Margherita” also means daisy in Italian; a beautiful flower that embodies Love, Beauty, Transformation and New Beginnings – the very foundations of Villa Margherita itself. Villa Margherita is a small luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Swakopmund consisting of four stylish buildings which are all located close to each other on the same premises. A fusion of contemporary art and historic colonial buildings.

Big Sky Lodges are proud to announce their further collaboration with Villa Margherita, with effect from 01 December 2020. Big Sky Lodges have been doing the reservations and the online marketing for Villa Margherita since 2015, but will now also take over the full management function of this beautiful and unique boutique hotel situated in the heart of Swakopmund.

Situated in the heart of historic Swakopmund in Daniel Tjongarero Avenue, coastal Namibia. Exceptionally central and quiet. True walking distance to restaurants, shops and beach. Experience the smiles of Namibia with the passion of Swiss hospitality.

We are, however, also excited to announce that Villa Margherita will be offering a new self-catering option, as well as special rates for locals and SADC residents, both on accommodation and on their lovely Spa treatments. The perfect way to combine relaxation with all the diverse adventure activities on offer in the Swakopmund area.

We have also introduced a Tourism Recovery Rate with a substantial discount valid until June 2021 year for international guests as well as SADC specials.

In addition, Big Sky Lodges will also be offering new “Bush-&-Beach” packages, combining the beauty of the bush at Ai Aiba Lodge with the beach and the coast at Villa Margherita. Or even combine a walking trail at Etendeka, in the heart of Kaokoveld, with some downtime at the beach afterwards.

Villa Margherita is open and has been certified by the Ministry of Health and Social Services as having all the correct and required Covid-19 protocols in place. We take the safety of our staff and guests extremely seriously and are operating strictly according to the Namibia Tourism Board’s recommended Covid-19 protocol.

The Nest

2 Bedroom Family unit. One room with queen size bed & one room with 2 twin beds. Entry into the lounge/main bedroom. Little cosy private garden & sitting area. Ideal for families or 2 couples of friends. Full DSTV in both rooms. Shared bathroom with shower.

· 4 guests · 1 bedroom with 1 queen-size bed

· 1 bedroom with twin beds · 1 bathroom · private garden area

Here you will find cosiness at its apex. This room is ideal for a couple looking for privacy or a family.

The Villa

Located next to the Manor it consists of 2 independent suites called Tristano & Isotta which together can host up to 6 people. The suite’s walls are adorned with a unique black & white photographic collection of century-old Namibia. The Villa is ideal for groups, families and solo elite travellers. A fully equipped, tailor-made kitchen with a separate dining room is available for your private use.

Isotta

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 queen-size bed

· 1 bathroom

This cosy 50 m² suite is full of stunning teak furniture. The toilet is separate from the shower. Isotta can be rented independently from Tristano, as it has a private entrance.

Tristano

· 4 guests · 2 bedroom · 1 queen-size + 1 twin beds

· 1 bathroom

Overlooking the oldest buildings in town, this 90 m² charming suite has 2 bedrooms and a bathroom that can be independently accessed from both bedrooms. Tristano can be rented independently from Isotta, as it has a private entrance.

The Manor

An abundance of century-old Namibian history awaits you in The Manor. Once the private home and practice of the first doctor that Swakopmund welcomed in 1908. The Manor is comprised of 3 luxury rooms and 3 suites, mostly independently accessible, making it ideal for groups, families and solo elite travellers. The Manor can be rented exclusively and includes a kitchen and private dining rooms, which are available for private catering.

Eden

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 queen-size bed

· 1 bathroom

This 40 m² room may be our smallest luxury room, but it is possibly our cosiest as well. Enjoy direct access to the garden and there is an interleading possibility with Adam & Eve. Eden is the perfect fit to accommodate a big family.

Adam & Eve

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · twin beds

· 1 bathroom · lounge

The Adam & Eve room is 80 m² of Biedermeier flair. This unique room has direct access to the garden and has interleading possibilities with Eden, which make it a perfect accommodation for a big family or friends. There is a generous bathroom with a separate shower. This room can also accommodate an extra grown-up child.

King

· 4 guests · 2 bedroom · 2 king-size beds

· 1 bathroom · lounge

The King room offers 95 m² of cosiness with a private lounge and a 180° view that stretches over historic buildings and goes all the way to the dunes.

Queen

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 queen-size bed

· 1 bathroom

Here you will find 60 m² of pure romantic indulgence! A lovers’ nest with a cosy little balcony overlooking the gardens. Perfect for honeymooners.

Romeo & Juliet

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 queen-size bed

· 1 bathroom · terrace

The name says it all! The Romeo & Juliet room is 50 m² of romantic privacy with a large open terrace overlooking the garden. Perfect for honeymooners. The steep staircase to reach this alcove is not suitable for physically challenged guests.

The Cottage

The former stables of Dr. Schwietering magically turned into 2 stunning suites with direct access to the main garden and private outside sitting areas. Both Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton rooms are ideal for couples or families, as they have an interleading door between the suites available.

Lord Nelson

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 king size bed

· 1 bathroom · private lounge & garden sitting area

Very cosy/romantic cottage suite with king size bed. Entry from the garden to the bed room. Private lounge. Bathroom with separate shower & bath.

Lady Hamilton

· 2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 king size bed

· 1 bathroom · private lounge & garden sitting area

A romantic and eclectic 55 m² of lovers delight! Perfect for honeymooners.

We look forward to welcoming you here!

Please contact us for further details on specials and to make a reservation: info@traveltonamibia.com

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Friday 11 June 2021

Namibia: Otjikandero Himba Community Trust Kamanjab | Очикандеро Химба Намибия

OTJIKANDERO COMMUNITY TRUST

Farm Cauas Okawa 30 – KAMANJAB - NAMIBIA

OTJIKANDERO HIMBA ORPHAN VILLAGE NEAR ONJOWEWE LODGE

(“Place of plenty milk”)

The Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village Project has started originally in 1999 when Jaco Burger moved for a certain period to Kaokoland to work and live with the local Himba tribe. He met Uakurisa Mukajo Mbahono. Mukajo could not have children due to the reason that she have leukemia and therefore not being able to marry a Himba Man of her tribe. Mukajo is also the last queen in her blood line of the Ovahimba tribe “Mbahono” which came to Namibia during the Angolan war.

For the Himba Orphan project Jaco and Mukajo have had a traditional Himba marriage because Ovahimba women are not allowed to have children in their tradition when they are not married. In the time when Jaco lived in Kaokoland the Ovahimba adopted him into their Lifestyle and traditional fashion. Jaco learned to speak the Ovahimba language fluently and today he is seen as one of their chiefs in the Kamanjab and Kaokoland area. In 2001 Jaco and Mukajo decided to move permanently with the orphaned Ovahimba children to his family farm in Kamanjab where Otjikandero Himba Village Project has established it’s name.

The Ovahimba orphans came originally and still from very predictable circumstances of Kaokoland. Most of their parents or at least one of them died due to an illness or accidents caused. Some are single mothers who fell pregnant but not married at that stage and moved to Otjikandero as they could not survive alone in Kaokoland. Some parents of the children were also into alcoholism or prostitution (mainly Opuwo & Epupa Falls area!) and their families took the children away but to give them better security by bringing them to Otjikandero Himba Orphan Village.

The project’s main focus is to give the orphaned Ovahimba children a chance to grow up in their traditional fashion, lifestyle and culture. In order to sustain the project related Ovahimba families of the Ovahimba children were needed in order to teach them their Lifestyle and traditional fashion. Our Ovahimba volunteers stay usually between 6 and 12 months and sometimes even longer with their own children in one of our now 3 permanent Himba villages on the family farm before they return back to Kaokoland.

Since a few years already the Otjikandero Himba Village Project supports additionally many people in the local and rural area of Kaokoland. This was the reason the establish the Otjikandero Community Trust which is officially launched in March 2011.

The income of Otjikandero Community Trust is generated by various Tourism Operators within Namibia and South Africa as well some individuals. In return we offer guided visits into the Otjikandero, Onjowewe & Omusauna Himba Villages and to get close contact to the Projects focus.

At this stage the recent launched Otjikandero Community Trust supports around 10-15 families/homesteads in Kaokoland, 20-25 volunteer women with their children & 45 orphan children at Otjikandero, Onjowewe & Omusauna Himba Village, the local schools around Opuwo and Epupa Falls with food/blankets/maintenance supplies every year. Ministry of Health is visiting annually for their injections; furthermore, the project supports Himba families and related families to our children which have hard times as well when their livestock is not enough to sustain the family. To pay transport fees and all other expenses that they may need. They also get special support (meat & maize flour) especially if there are funerals or any other family occasions in Kaokoland. As well school fees, school clothes and food rations for the children currently visiting the primary schools. This is just a small summary of what the money is used for. Of course, this depends all on the income of the Trust account. Additional donations such as school clothes and blankets related to our projects are always very much appreciated!

We, the trustees of Otjikandero Community Trust, are very proud of their lifestyle, tradition and culture; therefore, we will ensure that the next generation will also live on our farms. with us and that the project can grow even more.

THE MANAGEMENT AND THE HIMBA PEOPLE OF THE OTJIKANDERO, ONJOWEWE HIMBA VILLAGES ALREADY THANKING YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN THIS PROJECT! OKUHEPA – THANK YOU!

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