I have always wanted to go on a safari in South Africa. After much discussion we are finally starting to plan for one for next August or September. I'd love to hear of some agency recommendations and experiences.

As this will probably be our only safari experience I would really like to maximize it. Is 2 weeks enough? I'd love to see the game farms in South Aftica and Botswana as well as visiting Capetown. Johannesburg is not necessary. Any other suggestions?

I know we won't be slow travelers on this one but we'll be back!

Thanks.
Edna

Edna, there was a discussion awhile back, http://slowtrav.infopop.cc/6/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=759607521&f=831608785&m=813608785

Also read Jane's trip report http://www.slowtrav.com/trip_reports/2002_winter_jane.htm

This is on my list to do as well and I think we will probably be right behind you on this trip. Possibly spring 2004, so I'll be very interested to hear how your trip turns out as well.

Liz - from the "WetCoast"

hi edna - have been fortunate to have done 3 trips to so africa in 8 yrs! i strongly encourage you to try for 3 weeks (or even 18 days), it is a big country & much to see. we had a friend who used to work for So African Airways & he'd been there numerous times. he planned the trip for us (and came along as our tour guide - gratis!) what a break this was for us. on each trip we did 2 game reserves(2 days each) 1 very upscale (ie Mala Mala which is just too wonderful) and the 2nd one usually very nice but more modest in price (like Phinda game reserve). each reserve had early a.m. & late afternoon game rides. the animal viewings (we ONLY did photographic......no hunting!) were absolutely incredible!

another venue we did each trip (i am REALLY lucky, i know) was the Rovas Rail journey for 2 nights & 3 days. well, i felt like a pampered princess for sure! what absolute luxury...fine dining, wining & viewing of spectacular scenery from a beautiful renovated 1920's antique rail line. the food & service were impeccable & i highly recommend it.....we liked this better than the fast Blue Train we took on the 1st trip.

we also enjoyed going to Capetown & the wine country around Stollenbosch. incredible city & not to be missed. we spent hardly any time in J'burg (by choice) but did enjoy Pretoria (the capital city). also spent a couple of days in Durban & 1 day driving the Garden Route (beautiful) from capetown to Durban! we have not done the Sun City but have friends who enjoyed it....we are not against gaming (casinos etc.) but did not want to pursue that activity on a limited itinerary to so. africa - there were too many agendas that we preferred instead.

Hope you have a grand trip - and fun planning it. if i can be of any help will gladly do so! aimee in Houston