Authentic Africa Safari Experiences Can Still Be Found at Wag n Bietjie Lodge

There’s nothing like exceptional wildlife encounters on an authentic safari! It takes you to wild and inaccessible places.

At Wag ‘n Bietjie Lodge with its unique surroundings, wide open spaces of fields and animals roaming freely, is where clients receive a more intimate viewing experience. Awaken your senses and feeding your soul.

Sit back; relax while watching one of the most beautiful sunsets. Enjoy the scenery when the animals such as waterbuck, nyalas, warthog and even kudus come to drink water close by the lodge at the waterhole.

 

PLANTS AND BIRDS

 

While having a nice bush outing enjoy the unique bird and extraordinary plant life. Making it a challenge for the nature experts to identify the fauna and flora and having a great view while you’re at it.

 

HOSPITALITY AND ACTIVITIES

 

Here at Wag ‘n Bietjie we have a generous and friendly treatment for our visitors and guests providing traditional food and drinks while sitting around a nice bush fire. On request, let us arrange a exquisite romantic bush dinner. Take nice game drives with lovely sundowners or sit on the porch and enjoy a cocktail.

Animal lovers can see how a helping hand at the Wild Hearts Rehab centre changes injured or orphaned animals and see how they are re-introduced in their native habitat. Embrace the true connection with nature. At Wild Hearts Rehab center they believe education is an integral component of the anti-poaching effort. Whilst learning about nature, you will also be spoiled with our luxury accommodation and relaxation at the swimming pool or enjoying the lounge area with fire place for the colder nights.

 

TRAVEL EQUALS NEW BEGINNINGS

 

Make Wag ‘n Bietjie your new authentical experience!

 

“African adventure by day and star studded romance by night … let us take you there!”

Planning your Self-Drive Holiday

A self-drive holiday, could not only save you money, but it can be much more enjoyable.  You are able to enjoy the flexibility that other tours do not offer and experience small places and things that make your holiday memorable.  Unfortunately, a self-drive holiday can also go wrong if not well planned.  Here are some tips to help you with planning:

Begin your planning early

Start asking yourself questions like “what do you want to see?” And “where do you want to stay and what type of accommodation will you prefer?”  You can either make use of a travel agency or the internet to help you answer these questions.  Remember to look at customer reviews before booking your accommodation.

Plan your driving route

You need to think of not only the road you will be taking but also the places that you want to see.  Don’t forget to look at points of interest like museums, shopping, road stalls and amusement parks.  In small quaint towns, you might find special historic sights.

Book your accommodation

Although you want to remain flexible it is recommended that you make reservations for especially the beginning of your trip.  Make a folder that contains all the contact details, correspondence, and dates of arrival and departures.

Service your vehicle

On a self-drive holiday, you are very dependent on your vehicle, so make sure that your car has been serviced recently.  If it has been serviced, it is always a good idea to have the oil, tires, and fluids checked and filled.  Remember to always have a tire jack, spare tire, jumper cables, simple tools, a flashlight, and flares.  Make sure you have to contact numbers of emergency numbers with you.

Travel supplies

Double check that you have everything your family needs.  That will depend largely on the ages and interests of the family members.  For small children, you need to think of diapers, snacks, milk, bottles etc.  For older children, you need to think of things to keep them busy in the car.  The most important of all is to stack up on enough snacks and water for if you have an emergency.

Self-Drive Vacation in South Africa

Self-drive travelling in South Africa ensures that you see a unique side of the country that you haven’t seen before.  It can, however, prove to be challenging with the unpredictable elements of Africa.  Here are some tips for when you attempt a self-drive vacation in South Africa:

General tips
  • Keep to the prescribed speed limits.  “The general speed limit on South Africa’s national highways, urban freeways, and other major routes is 120km/h (75mph). On secondary (rural) roads it is 100km/h (60mph). In built-up areas, it is usually 60km/h (35mph) unless otherwise indicated.”  It is advisable that you always check the road signs.
  • It is advisable to switch on the headlights of your vehicle to be more visible to other drivers, especially in dusty or rainy conditions.
  • Many of the national roads between the major centres in South Africa are toll roads. Confirm the toll fees before you leave, and make sure that you have either a credit card or cash to pay.
    Toll fares may vary from R2.50 to R61.00 per toll plaza – you may pass through three or four of these before you reach your destination.
  • Make sure that you have a trustworthy and updated GPS.
Choose the best route

In South Africa, there are multiple routes to get to your destination.  Make sure you know what routes have road works and what routes have become difficult to drive on.  Also, make sure how far the gas stations are situated from each other.

What not to do when you self-drive

Rural areas can be particularly poorly lit and not all roads have proper fencing for animals and life stock.  You need to be mindful of drunk drivers, pedestrians and even life stock at night.  South Africans also know that Kudu’s tend to jump in front of cars at night, so it might be a good idea to avoid driving long distances at night.  Never leave your vehicle unlocked, even if it is for a short period.  Also never pick up strangers or hitchhikers.

Source

www.drivesouthafrica.co.za

Preparing for Your First Time on Safari

Going on a safari can be challenging for a first timer – even if you are a South African.  No one wants to look misplaced or be accused of frightening the animals away with their red shirts.  Here is some practical advice for your first safari experience:

What clothes do I need to wear?

Most camps encourage that guests wear clothing that fits in right with their bush environment.  That includes clothes of colours of beige, khaki, green or brown.  Make sure you know the temperatures of the place you are going to.  In winter in the Northern Cape, one can expect anything from very cold early morning and evenings to warm weather during mid-day.  Some basics one needs to have is T-shirts, a long sleeve shirt (one that can roll up preferably), vest, zip-off pants, hiking boots, warm jacket and a safari hat.

What necessities do you need to pack?

There are a few necessities that no person on safari should be without.  Sun block should definitely be your number one priority.  It doesn’t matter if it is in the middle of winter and icy cold, you should put sunblock on before you go out.  Also, put an extra sun block in your safari bag that must never leave that bag – you cannot afford to forget it at home.  Getting sunburnt and the sun sick on your first day is not something you want to report back home.  A hat and sunglasses will also be valuable in the African sun.

Mosquito and insect repellent is also an absolute must.  Before you go on safari, find out if you are in a malaria zone to get the appropriate medications.  There are lots of reading material about what to pack in your first aid bag and always remember your travel insurance!

A common mistake on your first safari

Buying hiking boots just before you go on safari and never walking in them before can really cause uncomfortable blisters.  Even if you think you are only going on a game drive, make sure that the boots you’ve got are comfortable.  Remember, you are still in Africa and unexpected things can happen – An unexpected walk in the bush will definitely not be a rare occurrence in Africa.

Other tips

It can become so hot over midday that most safari companies do not take their clients out over this time of day.  A book and swimsuit will really come in handy during your afternoon relaxation time.  Remember to rehydrate often and listen to what your guide are saying.  They are really knowledgeable on factors regarding the bush and create a valuable experience for you.

Now it’s time for you to go and enjoy your first African Safari!!

Common Travelling Mistakes

As a first-time traveller you may hear a lot of “what to do’s”, but rarely do you hear about the mistakes your friends made.  It would be a lot easier to travel if we also knew what those mistakes were and how to avoid them.  After all, those mistakes can lead to a lot of lost time, wasted money and above all, missed opportunities.  Isn’t one of the biggest reasons you travel after all for new experiences?  Here is a list of common things to avoid whilst travelling:

Do not eat near a tourist site

Although a major tourist site may be convenient, the restaurants there knows that you probably aren’t coming back.  Their focus is therefore on getting the most customers and not necessarily providing the best quality food.  A suggestion would be to rather travel four or five blocks away before you look for someplace to eat.  Asking at a hostel might also provide some great options.  In conclusion – its best to go to a place where you know that the food must be high quality, otherwise the locals won’t go back there.

Be money wise – Do not make use of traveller’s checks and do not exchange money at the airport

Using traveller’s checks are outdated and most banks don’t even accept them anymore.  It is best to use plastic as much as possible.  Especially if you make use of a bank card without fees.  In order to get the best exchange rates, make use of an ATM or credit card.  If you can, it’s best to never exchange cash.

Do not skip on travel insurance

It is always one of the most difficult expenses to make, but also one of the most important.  You cannot afford to travel without travel insurance.  It might just take one fall, one slip or an unexpected virus to spoil your whole holiday and whole savings account.

Above mentioned dos and don’ts won’t just save you time and money, but also add to the quality of your travels and some unforgettable memories.  Enjoy!

Source:

http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/not-to-do/

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Things to make travelling more memorable

 

Most people save up to go on a special holiday, whether locally or abroad.  It is important to make your trip memorable, so keep these things in mind when travelling:
1.  Meet the locals

You always get those guys that wherever they go, they have awesome experiences.  Experiences that are off the map and not within the usual day schedule of a traveller.  One way to have those experiences yourself is to meet the local people.  Locals usually know best – they know where you can find the best quality for your money, the best service and if you are looking for something different – they will know.  Basic English is spoken more widely than most people think and hand gestures also goes a long way.  It’s always good to know one or two basic words or greetings in the local language.

2.  It’s okay to laugh at yourself

Misunderstanding people and their customs happen quite often.  Instead of dropping your head in shame, laugh it off.  Making a fool of yourself, even unintentionally, is the perfect way to meet new people.  Locals and travellers will immediately identify you as someone who is fun to be with and seek out more opportunities to befriend.  People enrich your travels more than the everyday sights do.

3.  Take some photographs and then some more whilst travelling

Take lots of photographs – even if it is uncool to look like a tourist.  Memory might fade, but the photographs will always be there to remind you of the special places you’ve visited.  Before you travel, make sure that you are comfortable with the phone or camera you are using.

4.  Stash some extra cash

In some places, especially Africa, one can get far with cash.  ATM’s and banks aren’t always as easily accessible as one would like.  In Africa, cash tips also give you access to information and special services.  You can stash extra cash in your shoes, toiletry bag or special places inside your bags.  Always make sure that no-one knows that you have cash available.

5.  Dress the part

Make it easy on yourself at airport security and don’t dress like you are part of the mafia.  Also, wear comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes that make your time travelling easier.  Pack an extra pair of socks for if you are travelling long distances – even if it’s only for the comfort of your fellow passengers’ sense of smell.

 

 

 

Medication for your First African Safari

Going on your first African safari can be quite daunting.  You want to be prepared, but you also don’t want to overdo it and make your luggage too heavy.  It is always best to double check the list of medication that you’ve made with your general practitioner.  It is also a good idea to contact the lodge where you will be staying to find out what they have in place in case of a medical emergency.

Here are some ideas for your list of medication:
  1. Prescription medicine. Always make sure that you have an adequate supply of your prescription medication with you.  It may be difficult to find replacement medication depending on where you are going.
  2. Malaria medication. Found out before the time if you are travelling to a malaria area.  There are different types of malaria medication that you need to discuss with your doctor.
  3. Yellow fever vaccines. “Yellow fever is endemic (always present) in many of the tropical areas of Africa and South America, and this means that any areas populated with the mosquito could harbour the disease.  You will not be able to get a visa or permit to travel to some countries unless you have been vaccinated at least 10 days prior to your departure date and can show a yellow fever certificate”. (travelstart.co.za)
  4. Medication for stomach issues, like vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. A dehydration packet might also come in handy.
  5. Mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream. You can also take an antihistamine for more serious insect bites and stings, like bees.
  6. An assortment of plasters and a bandage or two. Butterfly suture plasters can also be helpful.
  7. Eye drops
  8. Ibuprofen or something for pain relief or fever.
  9. Vitamin C and other vitamins to give you a boost if you think that you are coming down with something.
  10. Water purification tablets
  11. A tweezer might come in handy for an unexpected thorn or two.
  12. Lip Ice and Vaseline – never underestimate the African sun.
  13. Sunburn ointment – You don’t want to spoil your African safari with sunburn on your first day.

In some cases, you might have to seek professional medical help.  Depending on your destination, the quality and services of state hospitals may vary.  You, therefore, need to make sure that you have comprehensive travel insurance.

Sources

http://www.travelstart.co.za/lp/travel-tips/yellow-fever#sthash.NHKMpr4R.dpuf

http://goafrica.about.com/od/healthandsafety/a/firstaid.htm

Scotty Smith is our Robin Hood of the Kalahari

The Northern Cape is known of its authentic beauty, rich culture and wide variety of wildlife. As part of this rich culture, one can find the colourful personality of Scotty Smith.

Robin Hood of the Kalahari – Scotty Smith

“WI L D E S T of all the reckless men who rode the Kalahari frontier was Scotty Smith. Every country has its Robin Hood, Dick Turpin or Captain Starlight – highwaymen of varying degrees of courtesy and crime. Scotty Smith was South Africa’s most notorious outlaw for many years, a legendary figure whose exploits live after him.” (Lawrence G. Green).

Scotty was born in 1845 as the illegitimate son of a nobleman. His real name was George St Leger Gordon Lennox, but this was however shortened to Scotty Smith. In all probability the compression of Scotty’s name happened between the taverns and gambling dens of the small towns in the Kalahari. His Scottish heritage might have had something to do with it too.

It seemed as if Scotty was a man of many talents, but not to be tamed. Educated as a veterinary surgeon, he went to Australia in search of gold, before he shipped to India to fight for the Brittish Government. He arrived in South Africa in 1877 as part of the Brittish army. He was however dismissed shortly thereafter, following a court martial.

Deciding that he needed a new personality, Scotty then took a fallen comrade’s papers to become “Smith”. It seems, as Scotty left his real name behind, he also left his will to be a lawful citizen behind. He got involved in gun-running, horse- and general theft, legal and illegal diamond buying and highway robberies. He even crossed borders and became involved in elephant hunting in the old Bechuanaland, now Botswana. What made Scotty famous was not the crimes in itself, but the fact that he was caught and sentenced several times, but always managed to escape at some point or another.

Acting also seemed to be part of his talent pool. After a particularly dodgy deal with diamonds, a search party was formed in Kimberley for his arrest. Scotty then decided to join the search party himself – effectively fooling everyone around him.

In true Robbin Hood fashion, Scotty also did some good deeds. From paying a poor farm wife an extreme amount of money for one night’s accommodation to sharing his spoils with the poor (on some occasions).

Scotty was finally captured and sentenced after a diamond theft went wrong. History has it that he was sentenced with 25 lashes and four years in prison, of which he only received one year imprisonment.

Scotty Smith spent his last years in Upington, farming on the banks of the Orange River. Whether all is rumour or truth, it contributed to the legend of Scotty Smith – the Robbin Hood of the Kalahari.

References:
https://ia902606.us.archive.org/4/items/ScottySmith/ScottySmith.pdf

Experience the Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape

The Augrabies Waterfalls are situated 120 km west of Upington, in the province of the Northern Cape, South Africa.  The Khoi call the Augrabies Falls Aukoerebis, which means ‘the place of the Great Noise’.  Consequently, the ‘Great Noise’ refers to the Orange River thundering its way downwards for 60 meters in a spectacular waterfall.  You have to experience it for yourself in order to fully understand this meaning.  The contrast of the waterfall within the desert setting provides a moving and absorbing experience. This is particularly true when there has been plenty of rain and the Orange River is overflowing.  As a result, the waterfalls seems to increase in its splendour.

The waterfalls also form part of the Augrabies Falls National Park.  The Augrabies Falls National Park is one of six South African national parks in the Northern Cape.  In addition, it follows the course of the Orange River from just outside Kakamas to the Namibian border, spanning more than 800km² (http://www.southafrica.net).

Activities at the Augrabies Falls

The national park is home to a couple of rock formations, including the Moon Rock.  This is a large, but weathered granite dome that towers about 30m above the park.  It provides a fantastic all around view for those that are prepared to tackle the summit.  Other viewpoints include Oranjekom, Ararat, and Echo Corner.

Except for the spectacular sight of the Augrabies Waterfall, one can enjoy a variety of activities and adventures in the surrounding area:

  • Waterfall viewpoints that are walking distance the restaurants.
  • Game viewing at leisure using own vehicle.
  • Nights drives can be booked directly from the park.
  • Mountain bikes are also allowed inside the park provided cyclists remain on the official roads.
  • The Wilderness Road is 94km long and will take approximately 6 hours to complete in a 4×4 vehicle. There is a scenic picnic spot halfway along the road with ablution and braai facilities.
  • There are several panoramic viewpoints inside the park.  They all provide great views of the park, the gorge, and the Orange River. These points also provide great opportunities to spot the local birdlife.
  • Rafting and canoeing
  • Flyfishing

The best time to visit Augrabies is from March to May when the temperatures are slightly cooler and the river is at its maximum flow after summer rainfall up in the Lesotho catchment areas. The falls is a easy day-trip from Upington.

 

Sources:

http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/entry/article-southafrica.net-augrabies-falls-northern-cape

https://www.roughguides.com/destinations/africa/south-africa/the-northern-cape/the-kalahari/augrabies-falls-national-park/

The Lesser Kestrel of the Karoo

Each year thousands of Lesser Kestrels (Falco naumanni) migrate to Southern Africa, and the Karoo, during the summer months.  This article gives a brief overview of the description, behaviour and conservation status of these small falcons.  Lesser Kestrels come from the North (Russia, Siberia and Kazakhstan) and seek the warmth of Southern Africa when their breeding season is over.

Description and behaviour

The lesser kestrel can be described as small, with long pointed wings and a long tail marked with a black band at the end. They are inconspicuous raptors, not much larger than rock pigeons.   Males and females are distinguishable by colouring.  The females have buff, spotted markings, whilst their belly is pale.  The males have blue-grey feathers on the crown, rump, neck and tail and chestnut-coloured body feathers. Both males and females have white undersides to their wings, with black tips. The eye ring is bright yellow and the feet are yellow to orange.

Travelling in loose flocks of hundreds of birds, this sociable species will also roost together in trees, but migrate singly or in flocks of less than 50, at altitudes of around 2,000 metres. Once they arrive safely in South Africa, the kestrels moult all their feathers in symmetry, set by set. You’ll find them under the trees where they roost, worn to a nub after the long flight from the north.  These kestrels are quite apt at hunting and dives almost silently from a perch or from mid-air and pounces on prey with their claws, before swiftly killing its prey with a bite to the back of the head.

Conservation of the Lesser Kestrel

The decline of Lesser Kestrel was first brought to the attention of the raptor world in the early 1990s. Information available showed a decline of around 46% since the 1950s in their breeding grounds and of around 25% in their wintering areas.  The main cause of the decline of seemed to be habitat loss and degradation as a result of agricultural intensification, afforestation and urbanisation.  The breeding sites of the lesser kestrels are unfortunately not protected by law.  Research and management of the species and its habitat have been carried out in several countries.  Interventions mostly focussed on the construction of artificial nests, and research into factors limiting the kestrel’s survival and habitat management.

References

https://www.ewt.org.za/BOP/migratingkestrel.html

http://www.arkive.org/lesser-kestrel/falco-naumanni/

Lesser Kestrels of the Karoo