AWS-NFS-Newsletter-2016-Volume1

THE TALKING DRUM2016 – Volume 1
BOTSWANA & ZIMBABWE
Pure Spaces, Wild Places
SOUTH AFRICA
Showcasing Diversity
SRI LANKA
Unrivalled Luxury
ALASKA CRUISING
Up Close & Personal
ANTARCTICA
Whale Research Program
CANADA
Something for Everyone
SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA
Peru
Chile
Ecuador
Galapagos Islands
Mexico
Costa Rica & Panama

African Wildlife
Safaris & Natural
Focus Safaris.
Wilderness your way.
AFRICA
ANTARCTICA & THE ARCTIC
CANADA & ALASKA
INDIA, BHUTAN,
NEPAL & SRI LANKA
SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA

FEATURES
7 THE SPIRIT OF CHILE
Explore the beauty of Chile with Tierra Hotels
8 KENDALL HILL
Journey Down The Amazon
10 ICONIC GALAPAGOS
An experience of a lifetime
11 ECUADOR
A Pocket-Sized Nation That Packs A Punch
12 MEXICO
Total Crowd-Pleaser
13 PANAMA & COSTA RICA
Bridging Two Continents
14 BOTSWANA & ZIMBABWE
Pure Spaces, Wild Places
16 RWANDA
A Land of Gentle Smiles
17 GREYSTOKE MAHALE - TANZANIA
Paradise on Lake Tanganyika
18 ATUA ENKOP CAMPS - KENYA
Safari in Style
19 SOUTH AFRICA
25 ANDY ROUSE
Acclaimed Wildlife Photographer
26 OUT OF THE BLUE
Antarctica Whale Research Program
28 EXPLORE REGAL RAJASTHAN
Suján Camps & Palaces
29 SOUTHERN INDIA, NATURALLY
CGH Earth Hotels
30 INDIA’S GOLDEN TRIANGLE
Luxurious Oberoi Hotels
31 BHUTAN
Land of Mystery
32 LUXURY IN SRI LANKA
Uga Escapes Boutique Hotels
34 ALASKA WITH UN-CRUISE
Exceptional Small Ship Cruising
36 CANADA
Something for Everyone
INSPIRATIONAL
JOURNEYS
OUR 2016
BROCHURES ARE
NOW AVAILABLE
Please call us on
1300 363 302 to order
your copy or visit
africanwildlifesafaris.com.au
to download
them.
Welcome to our fabulous, re-vamped 2016
edition of The Talking Drum which has
been expanded to a generous 42 pages but will
be published twice yearly instead of quarterly.
We would also like to take this opportunity to
wish all our readers a very Happy New Year,
filled with enriching travel and life experiences.
Our new-look publication showcases some
of our planet’s most precious wilderness
and wildlife areas, from the plains of Africa
to icy Antarctica, along steamy Amazonian tributaries and through Alaska’s pristine
waterways. Meet Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda, iguanas in the Galapagos and grizzlies
in Canada. There are also richly satisfying cultural encounters from vibrant Mexico and
Ecuador to multicultural South Africa, through exotic India and into mysterious Bhutan.
You will be tempted by glamorous hideaways in Sri Lanka, luxurious African safari camps
and stunning architectural retreats in the wilds of Chile.
Leading travel writer Kendall Hill takes us on a journey down the Amazon River in Peru,
and we have an interview with Michael Lutzeyer, founder of the outstanding Grootbos
Reserve and the philanthropic Grootbos Foundation in South Africa.
Most of our wonderful destinations feature small lodges and boutique hotels which
are soon booked up by discerning travellers across the globe, so if anything takes your
fancy, please allow plenty of time to plan and book your holiday. Our enthusiastic travel
specialists can help you every step of the way. So start up the coffee machine and take a
walk on the wild side as you discover some of the world’s most intoxicating places.
Stephen and Sara Cameron - Founders
Photographs courtesy of: Alberta Tourism, Dana Allen, andBeyond, Aqua Expeditions, Arabella Country Estate, Arctic Kingdom, Atua Enkop, Stephen Cameron, Canadian
Tourism Commission, Caroline Culbert, CGH Earth, David Dampier, Ecuador Tourism, Fancourt Hotel, Grootbos, Haugan Cruises, Beverly Joubert, Knight Inlet Lodge,
Ocean Adventures, One Ocean, David Kneale, Legend Golf & Safari Resort, Londolozi, Ira Meyer, Mauro Mozarelli, Mike Myers, Paul Nicklen, Nomad Tanzania, Northern Lights
Resort & Spa, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Rocky Mountaineer, Andy Rouse, Shutterstock, Singita, David Sinclair, Dean Smithyman, Jamie Scarrow, South Africa Tourism, Steenberg
Golf Estate, Suján Camps & Palaces, The Blue Train, Tierra Hotels, Tourism Council of Bhutan, Tren Ecuador, UGA Escapes, Un-Cruise Adventures, VIA Rail, Wilderness Safaris.
3www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au

DRUMBEAT
W.H.O. ANNOUNCES:
EBOLA OFFICIALLY OVER
Panic and confusion surrounding this
disease caused many travellers to avoid
safari destinations such as Kenya, Tanzania,
Botswana and South Africa, even though
Ebola was a never a threat to these
countries. Economies reliant on tourist
dollars were devastated. Since the welcome
World Health Organisation announcement
that the Ebola outbreak is officially over,
visitors are returning in force and we urge
you to book early. For more information
please visit www.who.int/en/
GETTING WAMA OFF
THE GROUND
Presently there are no major, dedicated
Australian institutions that celebrate the
symbiotic relationship between art, science
and nature. The groundbreaking Wildlife Art
Museum of Australia (WAMA) seeks to do just
that – providing a gallery, educational facility and
native garden in the pristine heart of Victoria’s
Grampians. WAMA hope to secure the final
government funding this year required to put this
marvellous project into realisation.
CHAD:
AFRICA’S WILD HEART
Origins Safaris is offering a once in a lifetime
opportunity to explore Africa’s fifth largest
country, led by the company’s founder
Steve Turner. Half of the 3-week expedition
(departing March 2017) is spent exploring
the untamed Zakouma National Park, whose
sheer volume of wildlife is guaranteed to
overwhelm even the most seasoned safari-
goer. The reserve’s huge elephant herds
are a must-see, while the diversity and
concentration of birdlife is incomparable
to anywhere else in Africa. The other half
traverses the Sahara’s remote and magical
Ennedi Peninsula. Final itinerary and full
costing for this unique expedition will be
available approx. April 2016.
4 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent
COUNTING ON
VIRUNGA’S GORILLAS:
2015/16 CENSUS
The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund has
begun the arduous task of counting
how many Mountain Gorillas remain
in the Virunga massifs. Aside from
difficult terrain and harsh weather,
challenges include a polyglot team,
poor access to clean water and the fact
that we still know little about these
primates. Previous surveys revealed an
upward trend and hopes are high 2016
results will show a population spike.
NATURAL FOCUS SAFARIS IN AUSTRALIA
Our much anticipated Australia product website and e-brochure will be launched this year.
Offerings will include glamorous bush camps, ultra-luxurious eco-lodges and romantic
heritage homesteads in our country’s most remote wilderness areas such as the Kimberley,
Kangaroo Island and the Great Barrier Reef. We will also be offering unique experiences
such as helicopter journeys and epic walking itineraries, for a completely different
perspective of this great land we call our home.
© Richard I’Anson. Taken at Bamurru Plains by Wild Bush Luxury.
WILDERNESS
SAFARIS GETS ROYAL
SUPPORT ON RHINO
PROJECT
In December 2015, our Botswana-
based eco-tourism partner Wilderness
Safaris was honoured to host Prince
Harry as part of his three-month
travels through southern Africa
to participate in the front line of
conservation. His Royal Highness
assisted in the fitting of tracking
devices on to endangered black rhinos
that had been translocated from high-
poaching zones in South Africa and
Zimbabwe. He also lent a hand with
raising awareness of the plight of this
ancient, horned species.

CONSERVATION UPDATE
As a wildlife-focused travel company,
we’ve donated thousands of dollars to
various wilderness conservation funds and
provided our clients with the opportunity
to contribute $8 or more per person per
trip. Our administration fees are zero,
plus we match dollar for dollar what you
give, so our nominated organisations reap
maximum benefit. Most recently, we
presented USD$4,236.00 (50% from AWS
travellers and 50% from us) to Zeros For
Rhinos, established to
raise money for rhino
translocation. Below
is the latest update
from acclaimed wildlife
filmmaker Dereck
Joubert, on their
ongoing Rhinos Without
Borders project:
It was a blood moon as I drove towards Duba
Plains Camp and my mind toyed with the
fact that for some rhinos it would literally be
bloody. The full red moon was setting as we
mobilised, and somewhere in South Africa,
poachers were washing their hands after a
hard night’s work. I’ve always loved the full
moon as it connects us to loved ones around
the world, who may be gazing at it at the same
time. Recently, however, I’ve come to loathe it.
the ramp came down, revealing the first crate
labelled “Rhinos Without Borders - Fragile”!
All went smoothly but for one crate. We
had a mother and young calf together in
there headed for their destination when
the transport truck got bogged. Conditions
were tough – 45°C – so we made the difficult
decision to free both animals. Usually we
would never move a calf so small, but it was
this or sure death.
Upon release, the mother went one way and
the calf the other. After a few painful hours,
we decided to recapture them. To do this, we
had to fly in a Botswana vet with tranquillisers.
We secured the baby quickly, but by nightfall
the mother was still not found. We retreated
to bed, exhausted and despondent.
5www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au
Today, we were headed out to the airfield at
dawn to help unload the first batch of rhinos
we’d rescued. The Botswana Defense Force
plane roared overhead and I ran up to it just as
We watered her down, and as we hosed her,
something amazing happened. She lay down,
rolled over like a huge Labrador, kicking her
legs and scratching her back in the mud.
Minutes later, we reunited her with her waiting
calf, who was whining like a small whale.
Then the second amazing thing happened: the
mother nuzzled her calf, stretched out on her
side and let the youngster suckle.
After three days, the healthy mother and calf
walked away free together.
We’ve now moved a total of 25 rhinos.
We have another 16 individuals we think are
under threat in the Limpopo area, and we
plan to move them in the coming months.
Inside sources estimate that a total of 1,023
rhinos were killed in November 2015. Sadly,
we’ve gone from one rhino killed every 7.6
hours to one every 7.1 hours. At this rate,
we could see 1,500 killed in 2016. Poaching is
escalating and scientists are no longer debating
extinction, but predicting when it will happen.
I wanted to share this story because you
made this possible. Without your donations
and support, rhino conservation would
still just be a conversation. Thank you for
endorsing a project that is vital to saving
Africa’s two rhino species. It is a tangible,
measurable effort and we will keep
persevering to meet our 100 rhino target.
For further information and to make a
donation please go to:-
www.greatplainsfoundation.com/rhinos-
without-borders/
A 3-hour helicopter search that began at
dawn uncovered the mother 8km away from
the release site. At this point, we learnt that
our helicopter pilots were not insured to
dart from the air so we dropped the vet off
nearby. By the time we darted the mother,
loaded her up and released her into a pen, it
was 4:30pm – we were all exhausted.

Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute works to undertake research into the
biggest health problems facing Australians today – heart disease and diabetes.
Heart disease is the biggest killer of Australians, killing 3.7 million each year.
Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic disease. If diabetes continues to rise at the current rates, up to
3 million Australians over the age of 25 years will have diabetes by the year 2025.
Here at Baker IDI, we’re all about healthy choices. We know that to live a long, healthy
and happy life, it’s important to avoid smoking, excessive drinking and unhealthy foods.
To help everyday people make better choices, we’ve released a series of recipe books
filled with healthy recipes and tips from our expert dieticians. We’re offering you the
chance to win 1 of 10 of The Baker IDI Blood Pressure Diet and Lifestyle Plan books.
All you have to do is fill out the coupon below (or a photocopy) and send it back in the
postage paid envelope provided.
www.bakeridi.edu.au
First name:............................................................... Surname:......................................................................
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a bicycle.
keep moving.
LIFEISLIKELIFEISLIKE
YOUMUSTYOUMUST
TOMAINTAINYOURBALANCE
– Albert Einstein
twitter/Baker_IDIfacebook/BakerIDI

Tierra Hotels specialises in providing a
glamorous yet authentic home-away-
from-home in some of Chile’s most astounding
natural landscapes. Their personalised all-
inclusive programs ensure you can experience
everything your surroundings have to offer at a
pace you are comfortable with. Excursions are
half or full day, with varying levels of physical
activity. Expect horseback riding with local
gauchos in Patagonia, trekking, boating, cycling
and interactive cultural outings accompanied
by passionate bilingual guides. Accommodation
is on a full board basis, so you can sample the
richness and variety of Chilean cuisine.
Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa is a stylish, sun-soaked
oasis amid the barren salt flats and arid sandy
expanses of the Atacama Desert. Crafted with
local materials, the property offers guests every
conceivable 21st century luxury while sun beds,
a sparkling infinity pool, terrace fire pits and
wraparound windows encourage a connection
with the surrounding wilderness.
An ultra-modern architectural jewel constructed
with endemic Andean timbers, Tierra Patagonia
Hotel & Spa is designed to blend into the sparse,
lowland pampas. Our very own Business
Development Manager Rolf Huber, who stayed
here in October 2015, sang praises about the
exquisite contemporary cuisine and fine wines
as well as “waking up each morning to jaw-
dropping views of the Torres del Paine massifs
reflected in Lake Sarmiento”.
The third property, Tierra Chiloé Hotel & Spa,
is set on a rugged island in northern Patagonia
amid traditional fishing villages. Explore Chiloé’s
totally wild inland canals and fjords in the lodge’s
very own custom built boat, the “Williche”.
For more information please contact one of our
Chile specialists on 1300 363 302 or ask your
travel agent.
TIERRA ATACAMA HOTEL & SPA
TIERRA CHILOÉ HOTEL & SPA
TIERRA PATAGONIA HOTEL & SPATIERRA PATAGONIA HOTEL & SPA
www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 7
THE SPIRIT OF
CHILETierra Hotels

The Amazon River unfurls across
seven South American nations but
Peru offers the smartest touring options.
Aqua Expeditions pioneered luxury
wilderness cruising and has itineraries
aboard the 24-passenger Aqua Amazon and
the 36-person Aria Amazon. Both depart
from the frontier jungle capital of Iquitos, a
400,000-strong city of strangling humidity
accessible only by river or air.
After a 1 hour and 50-minute flight from Lima,
we reach the port in darkness and ride tenders
to the Aria Amazon, a glass palace conspicuous
with its megawatt glow and striking design.
Aria Amazon’s 16 indulgent suites combine
indigenous materials like hardwood huayruro
floors with walls of glass to capture every
nuance of light, land, water and sky.
On boarding, we’re treated to the first of
several extraordinary tasting menus devised
by Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, the star Peruvian
chef who fuses rainforest foods with haute
cuisine to create delicious novelties such as
palm heart ‘tofu’ with armoured catfish roe.
When not grazing in the dining room, lazing
on the sundeck, attending lectures or
perhaps a towel-art demonstration (make
your own sloth!), passengers join thrice-daily
expeditions by skiff.
On the first dawn outing, a pink dolphin
surfaces releasing a puff of air from its
blowhole. A wake of vultures picks silently
over a carcass on the nearby mudflats.
Naturalist Julio Mozambite leaps to his feet.
“Mono! Mono! Mono!” he cries. A troop
of monkeys (“mono” in the local dialect)
scrambles through the canopy overhead.
One afternoon we fish on one of the
Amazon’s 11,000 tributaries for piranha.
Forget the childhood horror stories. They
look fierce but piranhas are easy to pluck
from the water with a hand line and some
beef for bait. We catch dozens and toss them
to waiting hawks.
In spite of man-eating fish, on another
afternoon we swim in the Amazon. A flotilla
of dugouts races towards us when we
reach Clavero Lake, tiny hands paddling and
INDULGENCE ON
THE AMAZON
By Kendall Hill

bucketing furiously to be the first to mob us.
Danny, Francisco and Lydia adopt me as their
water toy. We splash and laugh and take
turns diving off the front of the skiff.
This is a fabulous treat for the children but
even more so for us – for the sheer novelty
of frolicking with newfound friends on the
world’s mightiest river.
Kendall Hill is a leading
Australian travel writer
who writes for selected
publications in Australia
and overseas.
Kendall Hill travelled as
a guest of LAN, Natural
Focus Safaris and Aqua Expeditions.

There’s no better way to experience the
natural wonders of the Galapagos than
with Haugan Cruises. Boasting the newest
fleet in the region, passengers are guaranteed
the latest onboard facilities as well as highly
respected specialist guides chosen for their
knowledge of the archipelago and excellent
language skills. The modern twin-hulled
vessels are designed to ensure maximum
stability in turbulent waters, while the
wider ship base translates to larger shared
spaces, bigger cabins and more storage for
equipment such as ocean kayaks.
The newest ship in the Galapagos, the 35m
M/C Petrel is swift and near-silent allowing
for close-up encounters with iconic island
residents such as Blue-footed Boobies and
sea lions. Accommodating a maximum of 16
passengers in 7 staterooms and 2 suites, this
luxury catamaran also has a lounge, fitness
area and sundeck with an open-air spa tub.
The tri-level 2011 M/C Cormorant provides
a premium cruise experience for up to 16
guests, with ample room for relaxing when
you aren’t searching out the many species
that make the Galapagos so outstanding.
ICONIC GALAPAGOS
An Experience of a Lifetime
M/C Petrel
M/C Ocean Spray
La Selva Amazon
Ecolodge
What better way to extend your
Ecuadorian adventure than to add a
few nights in the Amazon?
Nestled by glassy Lake Garzacocha in
the Yasuni Biosphere Reserve, La Selva
Amazon Ecolodge is right in the heart of
the rainforest. Getting there is a journey,
requiring a flight to Coca, followed a canoe
and boat transfer. However, your reward is
first-class eco-friendly accommodation in a
pristine lakeside setting amid virgin jungle
teeming with countless rare creatures.
Guided activities reveal the huge assortment
of critters that call the Amazon home,
including howler monkeys, toucans, sloths
and boa constrictors. With hundreds of
colourful bird species observed around the
lodge each day, La Selva should be on any
birdwatcher’s bucket list.
For a tailor-made Ecuador itinerary, please
contact our South America travel specialists
on 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.
The 2012 M/C Ocean Spray is equally
generous, with 9 deluxe cabins and
expansive social areas including a sundeck
with an outdoor jacuzzi.
A typical 7-night cruise departs from Baltra
Airport and takes in the lava rock islands
of Isabela and Fernandina, where hundreds
of marine iguanas are often found sunning
themselves. Santa Cruz Island, where the
famous Charles Darwin Research Station
is located, is also visited for its gigantic
Galapagos tortoises. Activities include guided
hikes, kayaking and snorkelling.
M/C Cormorant

11www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 11www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au
Few countries in the world can boast a spectacular Pacific Ocean
coastline, pristine rainforest as well as mind-blowing wildlife,
let alone a fascinating history and beautifully-preserved Spanish
colonial and Inca architecture in the shadow of snow-capped Andean
peaks. Ecuador may be tiny, but its attractions are manifold.
The Galapagos needs no introduction, and few travellers to Ecuador
arrive without passage on a cruise that takes them to the volcanic islands
whose curious inhabitants continue to wow since Charles Darwin first
set foot on the archipelago in 1835. Snorkel with turtles, sea lions and
marine iguanas, while swallow-tailed gulls and boobies wheel overhead.
Wildlife on the Ecuadorian mainland is less iconic but equally
astounding. Yasuni, in the country’s remote interior, is a staggeringly
diverse mosaic of wetlands, lakes and tropical rainforest bursting
with over 500 bird species, jaguars, pumas and tapirs. You’ll find a
wealth of stunning eco-lodges here, providing all necessary creature
comforts between canoe safaris and naturalist-guided treks.
Sandwiched between sea and jungle is Ecuador’s charming capital,
Quito, which is linked to coastal Guayaquil by a fabulous steam
locomotive – Tren Crucero. Why not combine a Galapagos expedition
and an Amazon rainforest exploration with a luxury train journey
in between? Whether you’re meeting your yacht at Guayaquil or
returning to Quito for an onward flight, your Tren Crucero connection
traverses stunning volcanic scenery, colourful Andean villages and
death-defying mountain passes.
Have one of our South America experts design an itinerary for you by
calling 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent to call us on your behalf.
ECUADORA Pocket-Sized Nation That Packs A Punch
“Hummingbirds, haciendas, Panama
hats, Darwin’s Galapagos and hugely
welcoming locals – how varied is that?”
Anne-Marie Zambelli
NFS General Manager

Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent12
MARVELLOUS MEXICO
From Brilliant Museums and Mesoamerican Ruins to
White Sand Beaches and Tasty Burritos, Mexico is a Total Crowd-Pleaser
With its haunting remains of pre-Hispanic civilisations,
centuries-old metropolises, stark cactus-studded deserts,
exotic rainforests and idyllic sandbars, Mexico appeals to just
about everyone. Discover the genius of Diego Rivera in the murals
adorning the Palacio Nacional in Mexico City, walk in the footsteps
of Maya on the ruin-strewn Yucatan Peninsula or soak up the sun
in the beach resorts of Cancun. Mexican cuisine is another major
attraction; chilli-laden tacos, loaded corn tortillas and icy margaritas
are such standouts, they’ve found their way across the globe.
We offer a wide range of itineraries, from an insightful 4 day
exploration of Mexico City to a more in-depth 9 day holiday which
traverses two states and delves into the country’s fascinating pre-
Columbian and Spanish colonial back-story.
If you’re planning to transit for a few days en route to Central
America, Cuba or the Caribbean, why not consider our 5 day
Unique Yucatan sojourn? This popular tour provides a snapshot
of the extraordinary Mayan culture that can still be found on the
peninsula today. A Merida city tour reveals fabulous museums
and ancient monuments, and if your visit coincides with the
Day of the Dead holiday, you can participate in a spirited fiesta
where costumed citizens paint their faces and revel in the streets.
Additional highlights include entry to Chichen Itza, the fabled capital
of the Mayan Empire, sleepy historic Valladolid, a private cooking
class and a fascinating tequila distillery visit.
For full details please contact our Mexico travel specialists on
1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.

www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 13
“The colossal Panama Canal was
fascinating, Costa Rica’s national parks
fabulous and the quality of infrastructure in
both countries very pleasantly surprising!”
Taleen Gaidzkar
NFS South America Travel Specialist
Occupying the narrowest portion of land that connects North and South
America, Panama and Costa Rica combine the best of both continents.
Panama City is reminiscent of Miami, with its soaring skyscrapers and famous
canal but fly just one hour westward to Boquete and discover volcanic peaks,
wildlife-rich jungles, bubbling hot springs and pristine rivers. Peaceful Costa
Rica has first-rate infrastructure, a well-developed eco-tourism industry and
huge tracts of protected rainforest harbouring biodiversity that belies its small
size. Boasting two coastlines, both countries enjoy pounding Pacific Ocean
surf to the west and tranquil Caribbean beaches to the east.
Travellers to Panama City must see the massive Miraflores and Gatun locks,
modern feats of engineering which allow some 14,000 vessels to pass each
year. Also worth a visit is Panama Viejo, site of the original city sacked
by notorious English pirate Henry Morgan in the 17th century. Outdoor
enthusiasts can venture inland for trekking and white-water rafting.
Costa Rica is the undisputed adventure capital of Central America. Look for
comical toucan, flashy poison dart frogs and exquisite wild orchids on hikes
through Tortuguero National Park. Green turtles are commonly sighted
on its beaches from July to October. Arenal and Monteverde offer volcanic
views, mineral springs and limitless wildlife sighting opportunities within
rare cloud forests. The south-western Osa Peninsula is home to at least
half of Costa Rica’s animal species, as well as secluded beaches and ethereal
waterfalls. Zip-line through the tree canopy, raft downriver or simply relax
in your eco-lodge amid this slice of tropical paradise.
PANAMA & COSTA RICA
Bridging Two Continents

Few places possess the unadulterated
wild landscapes of Botswana. This
is a vast country of dazzling contrasts.
Although comprised mostly of desert,
there are huge fecund pockets, watered by
ephemeral rivers. Largely un-peopled, this
peaceful nation harbours healthy predator
populations and some of Africa’s greatest
remaining elephant herds.
Wilderness Safaris is Botswana’s premier
safari operator, with over 30 years
experience and exclusive access to
concessions in the richest game-viewing
regions. Their bush airline also ensures
guests reach Wilderness destinations in the
shortest time possible.
Discover the Okavango Delta’s pristine islands
and channels; there are 15 Wilderness camps
here, with stunning locations on land, water
or both. In the magnificent Linyanti Reserve,
3 properties provide front-row seats to
nature’s spectacles in woodland and swamp.
Arid Kalahari Plains Camp boasts endless
savannah and excellent cheetah-viewing.
Choose from two styles of camp; Classic
Camps have large fantastic, individually
styled tented rooms, a guest swimming pool
and communal dining tent. In comparison,
Premier Camp suites are palatial, with
substantial lounge areas and often boast
unique features such as private plunge pools
at some properties, or an outdoor bath tub.
Botswana’s best game-viewing takes place
from June to October. As camps are popular,
we urge you to book early. We understand
that not everyone has a month to spare so to
get the most out of your safari, contact us on
PURE
SPACES
Botswana

Lush, landlocked Zimbabwe is awash with
utterly wild places, from the teeming
waterholes and grassy plains of Hwange
National Park to the rushing Zambezi
River which thunders into a crevasse
forming the stupendous natural wonder of
Victoria Falls. Wilderness Safaris offers four
intimate Zimbabwean camps in superb,
remote locations, carefully designed to
offer unparalleled wildlife encounters with
minimal environmental impact.
Davison’s Camp lies deep in the most prolific
section of Hwange. This rustic bush camp
operates game drives and walking safaris to
keep visitors occupied.
Little Makalolo has a fabulous waterside log-
pile hide, ideal for spying on the parade of
animals that come to quench their thirst.
This classic Hwange lodge provides a unique
opportunity to sleep beneath the stars.
Linkwasha is Wilderness Safaris’ newest
and most luxurious property in Zimbabwe.
Providing the highest levels of comfort,
Linkwasha also guarantees an exclusive
wildlife experience as the only people with
access to this section of Hwange National
Park are Wilderness Safaris’ guests.
Ruckomechi in Zimbabwe’s World Heritage-
listed Mana Pools National Park overlooks
the mighty Zambezi. Boat safaris,
exhilarating canoe excursions, an outdoor
bath and a sleep-out deck make this a one-
of-a-kind riverside camp.
Combining properties in both reserves
provides an excellent overview of
Zimbabwe’s wildest destinations. Have an
itinerary tailor made for you by contacting
our Africa specialists on 1300 363 302.
WILD
PLACES
Zimbabwe

RWANDA
A Gentle Land of Smiles
When you’re nestled in a clearing within an
arm’s length of a ruminating Mountain
Gorilla, it’s hard not to keep beaming, so special
is the experience. These peaceful primates are
definitely the stars of tiny, landlocked Rwanda,
an Equatorial African nation whose people still
bear scars from the bloody civil war of the
1990s. Although Mountain Gorillas remain the
country’s biggest drawcard, travellers are just
beginning to realise that this off-the-beaten-
track destination offers so much more.
The first thing that surprises most visitors
to the capital is how tidy and orderly Kigali’s
streets are. Plastic bags are illegal here, and
residents regularly participate in neighbourhood
clean-ups. The easy day trip to Parc National
des Volcans regularly involves waving back at
friendly locals, while bustling markets selling
traditional handicraft, textiles and fresh produce
offer a truly authentic African experience.
Although gorillas are commonly found on the
lower reaches of the volcanoes dotting the
park’s landscape, be prepared for a strenuous
trek. The effort is entirely worthwhile; the
hour spent with a family group will be the most
intense and unforgettable wildlife experience
in your lifetime. Gorilla permits are restricted
and expensive, but we strongly recommend
you purchase two during your stay as funds
go directly to safeguarding the future of these
magnificent animals.
The 4 day/3 night Rwanda Gorillas program
with Origins Safaris costs from $5781 per
person twin share ex Kigali. It includes 2 gorilla
permits, accommodation, all transfers and a
Flying Doctor Service membership.
Contact our Africa travel specialists on
1300 363 302 for more information.
“The trek started with
an hour of walking
through farmland…
which was actually a
highlight. Then we
moved into forest,
following buffalo
tracks through bamboo thickets.
The gorillas were in a clearing and we
were only a metre away from where they
rested, played and fought. The hour was
amazing.”
Siobhan Pemberton,
AWS Africa Travel Specialist
th

Best known for its healthy populations of
wild chimpanzee, western Tanzania is
where legendary primatologist Jane Goodall
discovered the species was capable of
using tools and weren’t strictly vegetarian.
Accessible only by boat, iconic and upscale
Greystoke Mahale is located on a white, sandy
beach on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and is
one of the few lodges from where you can see
the chimps of the Mahale Mountains up close.
Spend your days on adrenaline-filled treks, ears
cocked for the distinctive whoops and shrieks
of a sociable family group. The adventure isn’t
just about chimpanzees however; the forest
and lake pulsate with life including colobus
monkeys, duikers, baboons, cichlid fish and
over 200 kinds of bird. The other animal that
guests inevitably fall in love with is Big Bird, the
great white pelican adopted here by camp staff
when he lost his flock during a storm.
The young pelican developed an unlikely
friendship with the camp manager, who fed
him and taught him how to fly. Big Bird also
obligingly carried a GoPro on his bill, providing
a unique birds-eye view of the Mahale
Mountains. Uploaded to YouTube, this video
has now been viewed over 5 million times.
Likened to a pet dog, this amiable, ambling
pelican spends much of his time around the
dinner table and bar, with no apparent plans
to leave Greystoke Mahale anytime soon.
And you won’t want to either, after you’ve
come face to face with your closest genetic
relatives in such an idyllic location.
Please contact our Africa specialists on
GREYSTOKE MAHALE
Find Paradise on Lake Tanganyika

SAFARI
KENYA STYLE
Atua Enkop Camps
Meaning “Out of Africa” in the Maa language, spoken by tribal Maasai, Atua Enkop was founded
by professionals with over 100 years of tourism experience collectively. The four properties in
the portfolio are set in three prime game-viewing areas and are decidedly tiny, to ensure exclusivity,
top-notch service and to enhance guests’ connection with the Kenyan wilderness.
The two riverside Masai Mara tented camps – Tipilikwani and Mara Ngenche – command unparalleled
views of the plains, especially thrilling during the annual wildebeest migration. Guests sleep under
canvas in beautifully appointed beds, have hot water showers and access to a pool.
Mbweha is located on a private conservancy in the Great Rift Valley with a sweeping mountain
aspect. 10 lava stone cottages provide a comfortable base from which to explore the ephemeral
Lake Nakuru and its flourishing flamingos.
Elephant Bedroom sits by the Uaso Nyiro River, a muddy glacier-fed lifeline frequented by
elephant, lion and leopard on the dry Samburu plains. A dozen spacious tents with private plunge
pools offer cool, elegant respite from the hot, dusty landscape.
Whichever option you choose, Atua Enkop prides itself on providing a first-rate safari experience,
with well-trained local guides, tailor-made menus and a multitude of activities to immerse you in
the utterly wild surroundings.
For a limited time we are offering an exclusive 8 day/7 night Samburu and Masai Mara up to
50% off companion special ex Nairobi. Book to travel in 2016, and first person costs from $8367,
whilst the second person only pays $4208.*
For more information, please contact our Africa specialists on 1300 363 302.
*Conditions apply.
UP TO 50% OFF
COMPANION SALE
For a limited time, when
2 people travel 2nd person
saves up to $4476.*
For details please call us
on 1300 363 302 or
your travel agent.

Sawubona, welkom and welcome! That’s only three ways to greet visitors to Africa’s
most diverse nation. South Africa boasts 11 official languages, globally acclaimed wines,
unique multicultural cuisine as well as a mind-bogglingly varied landscape populated with
a dazzling spectrum of wildlife. Take advantage of the beautifully mild climate by spending
plentiful time outdoors.
Climb Table Mountain for unsurpassable views of Cape Town and see great white sharks
and whales along the tranquil Garden Route. Of course, you must go on safari in one of the
nation’s many private wildlife reserves. From glamorous trains and luxury lodges nestled in
rare fynbos vegetation to exclusive tented camps in Big 5 territory, there’s accommodation
to suit every kind of traveller to South Africa.
SOUTH AFRICA
2016 - Volume 1 Supplement

THE ESSENCE OF A
SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI
Londolozi Private Game Reserve
How does South Africa’s first Relais
& Chateaux game reserve set itself
even farther apart from the rest of the
luxury safari lodges in the region?
By tapping the photographic talents of
the team, and being well ahead in the
technology game! As any good guide will
attest, a real risk of working on the safari
circuit is becoming really capable behind the
camera lens. In a location like Londolozi,
where there are so many big cats and
other fascinating wildlife, not only do
guests have access to remarkable subjects,
they can now benefit from the guidance
of professional photography instructors,
handpicked from the loyal Londolozi
team. With a minimum of 5 years guiding
experience, a Specialised Photographic Safari
guide will deliver an exhilarating wildlife
adventure as well as helpful advice on how
to take great pictures.
Established in 1926, Londolozi has long been
the setting for top wildlife documentaries
screened on the Discovery Channel and
National Geographic. For the very first time,
the lodge is throwing open its state-of-the-
art studio doors for guests to touch up their
own images and even print them onto canvas
to take home as a unique souvenir.
As many avid photographers will know,
equipment is central to creating the perfect
shot. However, cost and the inconvenience
of lugging laptop, tripod and lenses around
often deter even the most enthusiastic
shutterbug. Londolozi now offers a huge
range of Canon and Nikon accessories for
hire, as well as use of iMacs with the latest
photo-editing software in the studio. For
more information about Londolozi and the
one-of-a-kind Specialised Photographic Safari
experience, please contact our Africa travel
specialists on 1300 363 302.

NATURE
AT ITS BEST
There are plenty of pleasurable activities
awaiting visitors to the Grootbos Private
Nature Reserve. See the Marine Big 5:
dolphin, shark, whale, seal and penguin are
kings of the undersea world that surround
the Cape Floral Kingdom. Walker Bay has
plenty of whale-watching vantage points,
while the village of Gaansbaai is gateway
to seal-dotted Dyer Island and infamous
Shark Alley, whose turbulent waters are
regularly patrolled by National Geographic
filmmakers’ vessels. Thrill seekers cannot
miss coming nose to nose here with great
whites from the safety of a submerged cage.
Learn all about the brilliant flora and fauna
that inhabit the estate, on foot, by 4X4 or on
horseback. Plant a slow-growing endangered
Milkwood tree, follow a fynbos-fringed trail or
hear stories of early Stone Age settlement on
a cave tour. A scenic flight provides an aerial
point of view of this stunning coastal region.
There are secret, sun-kissed coves to swim
in, award-winning wineries to savour as well
as thriving estuaries in which to bird-watch.
To conclude an action-packed day, indulge
in a blissful spa treatment in your suite or in
the forest, or simply enjoy the magnificent
facilities, stunning cuisine and luxury
accommodations on offer at Grootbos.
Your stay at Grootbos directly contributes to
the foundation’s many inspiring community
projects. If you want to get involved with
any of these programs you can sign up as an
intern or volunteer. Contact us on
1300 363 302 to plan your visit now.

A World Leader in
Responsible Luxury
Tourism: Michael
Lutzeyer
AWS interviewed
the remarkable
Michael Lutzeyer,
founder of the
superlative Grootbos
Private Nature
Reserve, when he
was in Melbourne in
November 2015.
Michael, what inspired you to start
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve?
It all started with the purchase of a
123-hectare block of seemingly worthless,
overgrazed farmland in the coastal town of
Gansbaai with the intention of starting a bed
and breakfast business. With attractions like
the Big 5 up north, what would our property
have to offer that would entice visitors to
travel thousands of kilometres to see? The
answer was right outside our door: fynbos.
Fynbos belongs to the Cape floral kingdom,
which is one of just six botanical kingdoms
found on earth. My interest in fynbos led
me to employ a young botanist named
Sean Privett in 1997. Sean began a massive
botanical survey, identifying over 760 unique
species, including 6 completely new to
science – one was named after Grootbos,
two after my father Heiner.
So which of the Grootbos Foundation
Projects is closest to your heart?
I don’t have a favourite project; it is more
about which project I think about most at
a point in time. Foremost in my mind right
now is the Growing the Future program,
whose aim is to help locals become more
self-sustaining. To cope with skyrocketing
food prices and rising obesity rates, Growing
the Future provides the skills needed to
grow organic produce as well as successfully
raise poultry and livestock.
Where does the team at Grootbos come from?
The people that make the property so
great are all local. Many are graduates of
our Green Futures program*. Because the
average length of service is over 6 years, the
team is close-knit and treat the property as if
it were their own.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
As a proud South African who loves wildlife,
Kruger National Park is my favourite
destination. Once a year, I camp here with
my family for two weeks, and just appreciate
the peace, quiet and slow pace of life.
*Set up in 2003 to train disadvantaged youths in
Gansbaai, this program provides education and training
for 8-12 young adults each year. 90% of graduates
achieve employment at the end of their training.
IN FULL SWING
To say that South Africa is a golfer’s dream would be an understatement. The
country has around 450 golf courses, many which are championship standard and
has produced some of the world’s best players, from Bobby Locke and Ernie Els to
Retief Goosen. The sunny, mostly dry climate also lends itself to spending lots of time
on fairways. Furthermore, the magnificent landscapes of South Africa mean that many
holes are surrounded by eye-catching scenery - where else in the world can you tee
off to the sight of grazing zebra? We’ve selected four of the nation’s most unforgettable
destinations below for your playing pleasure.
Legend Golf & Safari Resort,
Limpopo
This 18-hole signature course is larger
than life, with the distance from the
first tee box to the last hole measuring
a mighty 8,500 yards. Set within the
Entabeni Safari Conservancy, 215km
north-west of Pretoria, there’s always
grazing giraffe and antelope about. The
pinnacle of this course is the Extreme
19th, a par three played from Hanglip
Peak, reached by helicopter (extra cost).
Steenberg Golf Estate,
Constantia
Designed by Peter Matkovich, South
Africa’s foremost golf architect, this
course runs around a 17th century
vineyard, with grapevines, streams and
pines for hazards. The feature holes
on each nine are both par threes, one
encircled by lake, while the other by
bunkers, leaving little room for error.
Fancourt Hotel & Country Club,
George
Fancourt’s Gary Player-designed Links
Course is regularly ranked number
one in South Africa. Inspired by classic
Scottish links courses, this challenging
venue hosted the Presidents Cup in
2013, which resulted in an historic tie
between Tiger Woods and Ernie Els.
For a more relaxed game, try the highly
rated Montagu and Outaniqua courses,
also in George.
Arabella Country Estate,
Hermanus
One of the country’s most esteemed clubs,
Arabella is set along the waterfowl-rich Bot
River Lagoon. Peter Matkovich’s philosophy
of “listening to the land” is applied liberally
here with holes designed to maximise the
stunning views of the Kogelberg Mountains
and to protect the picturesque waterways
from chemical run-off.

THE BLUE TRAIN
High Style through South Africa
Step back in time in the smartly upholstered carriages of
The Blue Train, a gleaming sapphire 18-carriage locomotive
with gold-edged picture windows and white-glove butler service.
Travellers today are obsessed with speed, whereas early 20th
century journeys – mostly by train - were in themselves a treasured
travel experience. Relish the 27-hour crossing from Pretoria to
Cape Town (or vice-versa), which covers almost 1,600km, and
accommodates all passengers in sumptuous climate-controlled
suites. Depending on the route, an off-train excursion stop is
made in historic Kimberley, famous for its diamond mines or
Matjiesfontein, a beautifully preserved Victorian town.
Call your butler at any time from your room phone. They will stow
away your bedding during the day, and can even run a warm bath in
your ensuite if you have a tub. Immensely proud of their work, the
experienced staff have waited on the likes of Nelson Mandela and
Kylie Minogue, and treat every passenger like a celebrity.
Dinners are formal, requiring evening dress, and served in the gleaming
wood-panelled dining car. Everything but premium imported wines is
included, and you can expect a memorable multi-course haute cuisine
meal. An elegant afternoon tea is served in the main lounge, which has
an enormous rear window for sweeping views of the South African
countryside as you enjoy finger sandwiches and cake.
The Blue Train is making two special round-trip departures in 2016
from Pretoria to Hoedspruit, in Kruger National Park. Plan your
luxury rail journey and South Africa safari with our Africa specialists
by calling 1300 363 302.

This is a country that awakens all five senses, with its eye-popping landscapes, fascinating wildlife and mouth-watering
cuisine. From the arid northern grasslands of the Karoo and the scrubby savannah of the Kruger, to the vineyards
of the Cape Winelands and sandy beaches of Durban, South Africa’s many attractions will engage and surprise you. With so
many new sensations you’ll need rest – luckily, the Rainbow Nation brims with eco-lodges, five-star hotels, country manors,
luxury sleeper trains and everything in between.
Breathtaking natural wonders like God’s
Window and Blyde River Canyon along
the Panorama Route, or look upon the
picturesque sprawl of Cape Town from the
top of Table Mountain. The Garden Route
which traverses the Eastern and Western
capes offers stunning views of the coast,
seasonal whale watching, penguin sightings
and an opportunity to observe great whites
and seals in Shark Alley.
The tang of salty air at Cape Point where
two ocean currents often meet, creating
Cape Town’s attractive Mediterranean
micro-climate as well as turbulent seas.
The aroma of succulent meats from the
braai and the smoky scent of a campfire
will forever bring back memories of your
stay in a traditional boma, where you
swapped notes on what you saw on safari
that day.
Soulful gospel melodies and rhythmic
drumbeats, drawn from centuries of
influences from Africa and beyond, as your
waiters burst into song. The South African
savannah is naturally abuzz with noise, from
the ubiquitous soundtrack of chirping crickets
to the tuba-like blasts of hippopotamus.
Yet haunting quiet can also be found in the
cloudless Karoo, an arid landscape which
borders the Kalahari Desert.
Two centuries of European, Cape Malay,
Indian and indigenous African cuisine fused
to create intriguing dishes such as bunny
chow, biltong, boerewors and Gatsby.
With almost 400 years of cultivating
grapevines, South African wines are divine.
Take home a bottle, or better yet, sample
drops at their source in Stellenbosch, Paarl
and Franschhoek. Fresh seafood is a must-
try in coastal towns such as Hermanus.
SEE SMELLHEAR
TASTE
THE SENSES OF SOUTH AFRICA
Feel the spirit of the African bush as you
search for the Big 5 – elephant, buffalo, lion,
leopard and rhino. Experience the thrill of
the chase as you follow hunting lions by open
land rover, or stalk game on foot with an
armed ranger. Be moved by the birth of a
young calf - if you’re lucky enough to see it -
or the beauty of a fish eagle as it swoops over
the river! Brush past rare fynbos shrubs with
their showy flowers in the Western Cape.
TOUCH THE WILD

Celebrated UK-based
wildlife photographer
Andy Rouse has
provided AWS with
numerous fabulous
photographs, which
have graced many a
front cover over the
years. Here’s what
Andy had to say
when he saw our latest Africa brochure:
“I said in a previous BLOG that I love seeing
my work published now as much as I ever did;
it still gives me a thrill and a feeling of immense
satisfaction. So here is 2016’s latest wildlife
cover, for Aussie tour operator AWS, a very
stylish monochrome
conversion of a very
in-your-face lion image.
I really like it and I
hope that it does well
for them.
The image is tinged
with sadness for me as
it shows the great male
Notch, father of most
of the Mara’s lions
it seems – his dynasty lives on long after his
death. Notch was an amazing lion, a stunningly
powerful animal with a comically bouffant
mane and scars to prove he ruled his empire
by force. I’ve had many wonderful encounters
with Notch and I remember this particular shot
very well.
It was a year in the Mara when the wildebeest
had not followed their usual routes and much
of Notch’s territory was under 8ft of grass,
making cat photography very difficult. We’d
found him on this morning with two females
in the grass. The light was perfect but all we
could see were ears. Knowing Notch was a
creature of habit – he never stayed out when
it got hot if there were bushes nearby – we
parked ourselves well away on a track that led
straight to some dense bushes and a nice pool
to drink. Then we waited.
Sure enough there was movement from the bush
and out onto the road came the two females,
with Notch close behind. I used a 200-400mm
lens to compress the shot and focussed on the
first lion as that was the only composition that
worked. I just timed the shot so I could see at
least one eye from each lion and voilà!”
To read more about Andy Rouse and
purchase some of his incredible prints
please visit www.andyrouse.co.ukp yy
MARA’S
POWERFUL
DYNASTY
© Andy Rouse

In this edition of the Talking
Drum, we talk to Marine
Biologist and noted whale
scientist, Dr Ari Friedlaender,
of Oregon State University,
USA. Ari and his team spend
several months in Antarctica
every summer and undertake
important research into the whale populations
along the Antarctic Peninsula. In a unique
collaboration, they conduct their research
using the ships of our long time Antarctica
travel partner, One Ocean Expeditions.
Passengers enjoy a fascinating insight into the
world of polar science and research and can
even participate themselves, by photographing
whale flukes - a unique identifier of individual
whales, which help the researchers understand
migration patterns of these very social animals.
This truly is eco-tourism in action. Kerry
Christiani speaks to Dr Ari Friedlaender.
What is your background and what
brought you to work with One Ocean?
I’m an associate professor at Oregon
University studying marine mammals around
the world, with a focus on Antarctica. Since
1997, I’ve made 25 trips there, many with One
Ocean, who do a great job of allowing you to
experience Antarctica up close and in a very
respectful way. They combine tourism and
science meaningfully, by inviting lots of different
scientists on board along with adventurous
travellers who are enthusiastic about wildlife.
Tell me about Antarctica? What makes
it special compared to the other places
you’ve been?
The Antarctic is one of the most amazing
natural places I’ve ever been. I’ve worked
in the Alaskan wilderness, off the coasts of
America and Australia, but nothing compares
to Antarctica for sheer size and experiences.
With so little human interaction, the animals
here behave completely naturally.
What other mammals and birds might
passengers see on a One Ocean
expedition cruise?
There are crab eater seals, Weddell seals,
leopard seals, southern elephant seals and
Antarctic fur seals close to shore. Then, of
course, there are plenty of seabirds such as
wandering albatrosses and giant petrels. We
also see thousands of Adélie, chinstrap and
gentoo penguins. They are great entertainment
and really important for the system down here.
Is there a distinction between a ‘normal’
cruise and an expedition ship like this one?
One of the main differences with an
expedition ship is the amount of time you
get to spend off the ship and be a part of
the system. It’s really important to feel the
cold, wind and snow, to smell the salt, and
OUT OF THE BLUE
Antarctica Whale Research Program

to spend time with the animals because they
are unique. If all you do is passively glance at
them through a window, you are not going
to have the same memory, experience and
desire to promote conservation.
What has been your wildlife highlight in
the Antarctic over the years?
There have been a couple of experiences
I’ve had with One Ocean that have been
unique and that I tell everyone about. On
the first day out in the Drake Passage last
year, we ran into two Antarctic blue whales.
We got to spend about an hour and a half
with them. They are the biggest animal that
has ever lived and were almost decimated
by commercial whaling so to find them was
really quite special. Going to the places I
study such as Wilhelmina and Fournier bays
where I can talk about the work we do and
show them to people is also really fulfilling.
What do you say to critics who say that
tourists shouldn’t be in Antarctica?
There are definitely some people who think
tourism should not be in the Antarctic, but I
think very differently. As an educator and a
scientist, I want to communicate the things
we learn about here. In my opinion, the
best way to get somebody to feel passionate
about a place and really care about it is to
show it to them first hand.
What have been the major effects of
climate change and why is it so important
to protect Antarctica?
There are many reasons to protect the
Antarctic and keep the ecosystem whole.
For one, I strongly believe that we as a
people need to understand the wilderness
there to help us find our place in the natural
world. For another, climate change is
happening and it is affecting the Antarctic
Peninsula at a more rapid rate than almost
anywhere else in the world. Therefore there
is a real urgency to learn as much as we can
about this environment so we can protect it.
To do this, we need people to experience it,
and then in turn, want to conserve it.
Talking Drum readers can travel on
voyages to Antarctica to see the great
work of people like Dr Ari, firsthand.
Call us on 1300 363 302 for details
about these unique voyages with One
Ocean which blend tourism and real
scientific research in a relevant and
fascinating way.
Interview by Kerry Christiani, aboard
Akademik Ioffe, Antarctic Peninsula,
March 2015.

RICH & REGAL
RAJASTHAN
Suján Camps & Palaces
Offering rich experiences in unique settings of natural,
historical or cultural importance, Sujan’s four lavish
Rajasthani properties roundly deserve their international
acclaim and Relais & Chateaux status.
It is often said that Rajasthan has more history than the rest of
India combined. Travellers here will find imposing fortresses,
refined palaces and intriguing temples alongside striking desert
landscapes and untrammelled wildernesses home to the regal
Bengal tigers and elusive leopards. For more information please
call one of our India specialists on 1300 363 302.
This very special safari camp offers life-changing wildlife experiences
in Ranthambore National Park, the finest habitat in the world to
see majestic Bengal tigers in the wild, as well as leopard, jackal and
peacocks. Relish the sociable camp atmosphere, sample jungle cooking
and enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments. The campsite’s exceptional
setting by a waterhole affords animal sightings from dusk to dawn.
Step into the shoes of Rajput royalty in this impeccably restored palace,
whose lavish rooms are named after celebrated former guests. With its
landscaped gardens, art deco pool and imaginatively decorated dining
rooms, this regal residence offers refuge from India’s tenth largest city
and white-glove butler service to boot. Furthermore, it’s just a stone’s
throw from the famous Hawal Mahal and Lakshmi Narayan Temple.
Inspired by Rajputana’s royal caravan sites, this luxurious Thar Desert
retreat at Jaisalmer’s edge provides cool, calm respite from searing
desert heat and city noise. Explore Jaisalmer’s medieval fort, wander
the ghostly abandoned village of Kuldhara and ride a camel amongst
shepherd-flecked rolling dunes. Soak up red sunsets and starry night
skies in this unusual but glamorous, off-the-beaten track oasis.
This subtly opulent bush camp reflects the colours of its natural
surroundings, with splashes of scarlet inspired by the vibrant turbans
of local Rabari tribesmen. A twitcher’s paradise, Jawai is also one
of the India’s best places to spot a leopard. Although located in
a remote corner of Rajasthan, the popular cities of Udaipur and
Jodhpur are easily reached by car.
SHER BAGH - RANTHAMBORE
SUJÁN RAJMAHAL PALACE - JAIPUR
THE SERAI - JAISALMER
JAWAI - JAWAI BANDH

South India holds many charms, from remnants of European colonialism and
sleepy fishing villages, to palm-fringed beaches, intricate temples and some of
the subcontinent’s best eating. See it all with CGH Earth, a family company since
1954, whose commitment to eco-tourism is unequalled in this part of the world.
On this all-encompassing 17 day itinerary, you’ll stay exclusively at CGH Earth’s
unique hotels, many of which are painstakingly designed to minimally impact the
environment.
Your explorations begin in steamy Chennai, said to have been the first bastion of
British power in India. Visit the East India Company’s imposing Fort St George
and the World Heritage-listed ruined city at Mahabalipuram.
In Pondicherry, discover a rich French heritage, then traverse Tanjore, famous
for its enormous Chola-period temple complex. A cycle tour of Karaikudi reveals
a palace, and creative community known for their weaving. An interactive
kitchen at Visalam, a former merchant’s mansion, imparts secrets of Chettinad’s
delectable cuisine.
At Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, search for wildlife on a guided morning walk. A boat
cruise transports you to Coconut Lagoon, a resort modelled on a feudal Malabar
estate, set amid burbling canals and butterfly gardens. Next, take in Alleppey’s
legendary backwaters on an elegant Spice Coast Houseboat, where life takes on a
languid pace. At Marari, relax on an idyllic beach shaded by coconut trees.
The journey ends in Fort Cochin, where you can learn about classical Kathakali
dance. The beautiful Brunton Boatyard is a character-filled hotel which provides
a perfect conclusion to your travels.
Save up to $849 per person twin share on this 17 day South India tour staying
at CGH Hotels. This special offer is valid for travel from May 2016-April 2017.
Tour cost starts from $3832 per person twin share* ex Chennai.
Please contact our India specialists on 1300 363 302 for more information.
*This price applies to departures May-Sep 2016. Call us for prices outside this date range.
SOUTHERN
INDIANATURALLY
SAVE UP TO
$1698
PER COUPLE
Experience spectacular
South India on this 17 day
tour staying at CGH Hotels.
For details please call us on
1300 363 302 or
your travel agent.

India is a feast for the senses, filled with ancient monuments,
tumultuous markets, pulsating metropolises and splendid cuisine.
The heaving crush of humanity is what surprises most first-time
visitors, but look beyond the traffic, smog and hawking to discover a
magic that draws you back time and time again.
The Golden Triangle is a well-trodden tourist circuit so-called as the
three cities visited form a triangle on a map, and contain a trove of
treasures. On this popular 7 day itinerary, traverse this gilded trinity,
staying exclusively at Oberoi properties. Known globally for service
and luxury in remarkable settings, Oberoi guarantees India in style.
Beginning in Delhi, you’ll view the country’s largest mosque, the
Red Fort, Gandhi’s memorial and Humayun’s tomb. Experience the
cacophonous Chandni Chowk market before unwinding at The Oberoi,
New Delhi, the capital’s first luxury hotel.
In Agra, tour the Taj Mahal, India’s most photographed site. A mere
600m from this landmark, the Oberoi Amarvilas offers uninterrupted
views of the mausoleum from every room.
Finally arrive in the “Pink City” of Jaipur. Take in the Amber Fort,
Hawa Mahal and the Maharajah’s Palace, before retiring to the Oberoi
Rajvilas, a tranquil resort surrounded by acres of pleasure gardens.
This exclusive offer costs from $2426 per person twin share (normally
priced $2970) ex Delhi*. For more information, please contact our
India specialists on 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.
INDIA’S
GOLDEN
TRIANGLE
SAVE UP TO $1090
PER COUPLE
For a limited time, experience
India’s Golden Triangle staying
exclusively at Oberoi Hotels.
This special applies to travel
between 16 Apr-30 Sep.
*Conditions Apply.
1300 363 302 or
your travel agent.

LAND OF MYSTERY
The Himalayan nation of Bhutan is the world’s last remaining
Buddhist kingdom. Its narrow and winding mountain roads
reveal a timeless world of fluttering prayer flags and monasteries,
ancient fortresses, remote picturesque villages, and inspirational
mountain views. The Bhutanese are warm and welcoming, often
happy to pose for photos as they go about their daily prayers.
Its government-regulated tourist tariff limits the number of foreign
visitors entering the country to a manageable level, which in turn
preserves its devout Buddhist culture, and makes it a special destination
for those discerning travellers looking for a unique experience.
If you’re starting to plan your travel for 2016, there has never been a
better time to visit Bhutan. For travel from May-August & December
2016 we are offering exclusive savings of up to 15% per person on all
Bhutan tours (conditions apply).
One of our most popular tours, the 8 day Spirit of Bhutan, is now priced
from $3071 per person twin share ex Paro. Included is accommodation,
all meals, guided sightseeing and transportation. Enjoy a walk up to the
iconic Taktsang Monastery, clinging perilously to the side of a rocky
ledge in Paro, visit the historic sites of the attractive capital, Thimphu,
and discover the spectacular Punakha Dzong, a 17th century fortress.
More in-depth journeys such as the 11 day Dragon Kingdom exploring
the remote western and spiritual central valleys, and our Bumthang
Pilgrim Trek combining an enriching cultural experience with a
multi-day walk through rural countryside, are now priced from
$4301 per person twin share ex Paro.
For more information on these specials as well as our entire range of
Bhutan tours and treks please call our Bhutan specialists on
SAVE UP TO
15% PER PERSON
For a limited time we are
offering exclusive savings on
all Bhutan tours for travel
from May-Aug & Dec 2016.
1300 363 302 or
your travel agent.
BHUTAN

Trincomalee
Anuradhapura
Megaswewa
PolonnaruwaDamubulla
Puttalam
Chilaw
Matale
Kandy
Yala
Kurunegala
Colombo
SRI LANKA
UNRIVALLED LUXURY
IN SRI LANKA
Uga Escapes Boutique Hotels
Boasting prime locations close to the country’s top attractions,
Uga Escapes is proudly Sri Lankan and an ideal choice for
travellers looking to experience the stunning beaches, evocative
religious sites, teeming wildlife and timeless ruins that set Sri Lanka
apart as a premier holiday destination. With five boutique properties
in the portfolio, guests are guaranteed attentive, personalised service,
mouth-watering cuisine as well as entirely unique settings and all the
modern comforts expected in luxury boutique accommodations.
It’s entirely possible to visit most of the island nation’s highlights
while staying exclusively at Uga Escapes’ acclaimed hotels.
Be treated like a king at the sumptuous Residence in Sri Lanka’s
largest city - Colombo, discover Anuradhapura’s sacred ruins
from delightful Ulagalla, and enjoy sun-kissed beaches and temple-
hopping from the group’s beachside sanctuaries, Uga Bay at
Passikudhah and Jungle Beach at Trincomalee. The newly opened
Chena Huts is the epitome of bush style, perfectly positioned to
explore the elephant-rich jungles of Yala, Sri Lanka’s oldest and
second-largest natural reserve.
To build your perfect Sri Lanka itinerary, contact our travel
specialists on 1300 363 302, or ask your travel agent.

JUNGLE BEACH, TRINCOMALEE
East Coast Eco-Chic
A smart, secluded eco-retreat sandwiched between
peaceful jungle and picturesque beach.
 Unique position between Indian Ocean and bush
 Unexplored east coast location
 Only hotel on the bay
 Snorkelling, whale and dolphin watching
 Age-old temples and Kanniya hot springs
UGA BAY, PASSIKUDHAH
Beachfront Beauty
An elegant beach resort with a stunning infinity pool
and prime location on Passikudhah Bay.
 Ocean views from every room
 Indulgent underground day spa
 Reef, wreck dive sites and ruins
 Sunrise over the Bay of Bengal
 Delectable fresh seafood
ULAGALLA, ANURADHAPURA
Regal Rural Retreat
A sumptuous, earth-friendly sanctuary in the heart of
Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.
 A beautifully restored ancestral estate setting
 20 luxury villas with private plunge pools
 Archery, yoga and cooking school
 Ideal for cycling and bird-watching
 Proximity to ancient Anuradhapura and Sigiriya
RESIDENCE, COLOMBO
City Centre Refinement
If walls could talk, they’d speak of the noble guests
who’ve stayed in Colombo’s finest boutique hotel.
 Exclusive central Colombo location
 Historic Victorian mansion on leafy grounds
 11 sophisticated suites, pool and gym
 Fine dining in atmospheric surrounds
 Close to museums, Fort and Galle Face Green
CHENA HUTS, YALA
Southern Bush Comfort
The newest property in the portfolio is all about
understated bush glamour in Sri Lanka’s wild south.
 Uga Escapes latest offering
 14 ultra-luxurious pavilions with plunge pool
 Stylish hideaway in Sri Lanka’s unspoilt south
 Turtles, elephants and myriad wildlife
 Insight into traditional village life

AN INTIMATE
JOURNEY WITH
UN-CRUISE
™

Exceptional Small
Ship Cruising
With its diverse fleet of small ships nimble
enough to navigate narrow waterways
completely inaccessible to larger vessels,
nobody does Alaskan cruising better than
Un-Cruise Adventures. Accommodating just
22-84 guests each, their ships are perfectly
suited to foster uncommon encounters and
unexpected experiences - Glacier Bay National
Park, majestic fjords, rainforests, glaciers,
hiking, kayaking, humpback whales, orca, bald
eagles, sea birds, brown bears, black bears and
“polar bear plunges”! And no matter which ship
you choose, their expert expedition teams will
guide you on a unique and unforgettable journey.
Synonymous with unbridled adventure and
awe-inspiring encounters, stepping aboard an
Un-Cruise Alaska voyage also means impeccable
service, unmatched expertise, and exclusive
access. From the moment your adventure begins,
you’ll feel their uncompromising dedication to
your whole experience. It’s in the welcoming
ambiance on board, in their delicious cuisine,
and in the happy hours that celebrate the day.
It’s their onboard field experts eager to share
knowledge, in peaceful moments of quiet to relish
magnificent landscapes, and in opportunities to
try new activities (snorkelling in Alaska, anyone?).
All Un-Cruise Adventures are flexible and at your
own pace, so depending on your interests, you
could hike, kayak, paddle board or simply relax
on deck and view footage from the bow-mounted
underwater camera. Pack your bag and prepare
to unleash your excitement.
For more information on Un-Cruise’s great
range of Alaska small-ship programs, please
contact our Alaska experts on 1300 363 302.
TOP REASONS TO CHOOSE
UN-CRUISE ADVENTURES
1. Small ships take you where conventional
cruise vessels just can’t go
2. Plentiful activities from kayaking to
paddle boarding, snorkelling and hiking
3. Restricted group sizes mean
personalised, first-name service
4. No waiting in line for anything
5. Experience close encounters with iconic
Alaskan wildlife
6. Discover unique local indigenous culture
7. View Alaska’s famous glaciers and fjords
up close
8. Benefit from decades of industry
experience
9. Strict adherence to “Leave No Trace”
principles
10. Camaraderie in a casual, relaxed
atmosphere

For a truly authentic, immersive experience of one of earth’s last
great frontiers, choose Arctic Kingdom. Specialising in small group
expeditions of 4-16 adventurers, this pioneering company carefully
designs itineraries that put as little as humanly possible between
travellers and the icy surrounding wilderness. This is why campsite
locations and day-to-day schedules are fluid, to take advantage of
climactic conditions as well as to be where the action is. This is also
why canvas tents with picture windows are used, rather than hard-
shelled immobile tundra buggies. This explains why group sizes are so
restricted as well; any Inuit guide worth their salt will tell you that the
larger the group, the more compromised your interaction with the
natural environment.
Trips only depart in the Arctic summer, when days are longest
and temperatures are tolerable. See our departures calendar for a
snapshot of Arctic Kingdom’s most popular tours.
ARCTIC KINGDOM
ARCTIC KINGDOM DEPARTURES CALENDAR
May – June Narwhal and Polar Bear Safari
An 8 day expedition that covers all bases, from glaciers, icebergs
and wildlife on ice floes to Inuit culture and qamotiq (traditional
sled) rides.
May – June Great Migrations of the Northwest Passage
An 8 day exploration of Lancaster Sound, where large pods of narwhal
and beluga often gather waiting for the ice to clear.
June – July Kings of the Arctic
This great value 7 day roundtrip from Igloolik spends plenty of time in
Foxe Basin, observing huge herds of resident walrus and seeking out
rare bowhead whales in the frigid waters.
To learn about all our High Arctic itineraries and prices, please
contact our travel specialists on 1300 363 302.
Conquering the Final Frontier
Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent36

Terms&Conditions:*Offervalidonbookingsmadeby4March2016,unlessextended.TravelbetweenAprilandOctober2016onselectdates.Offerisapplicabletopackagesoffourormorenights.Depositsarerequiredattimeofbooking.Offervalueof$300AUDperadultbonuscredit($600AUDbonuspercouple)iswithqualifyingholidaysof
sevennightsormoreinGoldLeaforSilverLeafService.Bonuscreditamountvariesbydurationofholiday;packagesof4-6nightsindurationmayqualifyfor$200AUDperadultbonuscredit($400AUDbonuspercouple).CreditscanonlybeusedtowardsthepurchaseofadditionalservicesofferedbyRockyMountaineer.Creditvaluesareexpressed
inAUDasaguidelineonlyandmayvaryatthetimeofbookingbasedonchangesinexchangeratewiththeCAD.Pricesdisplayedareforselectdatesonlyandaresubjecttoavailability.Offerhasnocashvalue.Additionalconditionsapply.
A Canadian Rockies journey
like no other
When soaring above the mighty peaks of the Canadian Rockies onboard Rocky Mountaineer, you
have only one responsibility. Melt back into your luxurious seat, relax, and enjoy the incredible views
through our sparkling glass-dome windows. Let us whisk you away to a world of incomparable beauty
and luxury where the service is world-class and the cuisine is simply heavenly. And now with our
Stay & Play offer, you can receive up to $600* per couple in added value to spend on tours, extra hotel
nights, and much more. It’s the perfect time to book your 2016 adventure!
• 2 days onboard Rocky Mountaineer
• 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches
• 7 nights hotel
• Vancouver Lookout
• Jasper Highlights Tour
• Banff Gondola
• Helicopter Flightseeing
• Rail station transfers & luggage handling
WESTERN EXPLORER
8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
Vancouver-Kamloops-Jasper-Lake Louise-
Banff-Calgary
1
Jasper
Lake Louise
2
1
1
1 1Kamloops
Banﬀ
Calgary
Vancouver
U S A
C A N A D A
FROM
$4,962*
per guest
GoldLeaf Service
FROM
$3,559*
per guest
SilverLeaf Service

WHAT IT IS: Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon that
illuminates night skies with an unearthly display of coloured lights.
WHEN TO GO: Northern Lights are generally best seen from
December to March.
WHERE TO STAY AND WHY: Built with rustic Douglas fir,
Northern Lights Resort & Spa is one of the best places in Yukon to
witness Aurora Borealis. The lodge’s peaceful, forest-fringed location
20 minutes out of Whitehorse ensures minimal light pollution and
provides a perfectly unobscured view so the sky is the star of the show.
WHAT OTHER ACTIVITIES THERE ARE: When you aren’t
chasing Northern Lights, learn to dogsled, ride a snowmobile, try ice-
fishing and go snowshoeing through a winter wonderland. In warmer
months, discover the beauty of the boreal forest and tundra with
guided hikes across surrounding hills and grasslands.
WHAT TO EXPECT: No two suites are the same but each one
contains every 21st century amenity a modern traveller might need
including a kitchenette and free Wi-Fi. A traditional Finnish sauna,
infrared cabin, gym, massage room and outdoor jacuzzi are available
for all guests to enjoy. A convivial restaurant offers three healthy meals
a day, while the bar has a small selection of local wines and beers.
HOW TO BOOK: Early bookings are essential as there are just 4
cosy timber chalets at this property.
For more information or to book your Northern Lights dream holiday
please contact our Canada specialists on 1300 363 302.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
RESORT & SPA
Discover Spectacular Aurora Borealis

From November to April, log fires crackle while snow falls gently
outside, cloaking majestic mountain ranges and frosting the boughs
of towering firs. Come experience Canada’s postcard-perfect white
landscape on a 9 day Winter Wonderland journey from Vancouver to
Calgary (or vice-versa), taking in the glistening Columbia Icefield, mirror-
like Lake Louise and the charming Rockies townships of Banff and Jasper.
Your wintry holiday begins in British Columbia’s cosmopolitan capital,
Vancouver, with time to watch ice skaters at Robson Square. Climb
aboard VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” at Pacific Central Station, for a
comfortable overnight train trip into the province of Alberta. Bypass
famed Hell’s Gate, a stretch of frigid rapids so swift that a fish ladder
was built to help salmon upstream, before disembarking in Jasper.
Here, you’ll join an educational excursion in search of cold-climate wild
mascots such as elk, moose, deer and coyotes.
The next chapter of your adventure takes you over Icefields Parkway to
photogenic Lake Louise, whose icy crystalline waters exquisitely reflect
surrounding peaks. In neighbouring Banff, admission to the century-
old Whyte Museum is included, as well as a thrilling ride on the Banff
Gondola, which offers 360-degree views of the snowy surroundings.
Prices start from $1605 per person twin share ex Vancouver, with
departures from November through to April. Please contact our Canada
specialists on 1300 363 302 for more details or ask your travel agent.
WINTER
WONDERLAND
Canada’s Coolest Journey

This might be the best year yet to see the remarkable Rockies
from the gleaming glass-domed carriages of the luxurious
Rocky Mountaineer.
With a lucrative “Stay & Play” offer providing up to $600 per couple in
added value to spend on additional hotel nights, tours and more*, there’s
no better time to book a life-changing train journey aboard “the most
spectacular train trip in the world™”.
GoldLeaf Service is Rocky Mountaineer’s most popular service. With
a purpose-built bi-level glass dome carriage, gourmet meals served in
the downstairs dining room, complimentary drinks and nibbles, this is
unsurprisingly the most favoured option. The glass dome surrounding
your seat affords all-encompassing views of the surrounding lakes and
mountains, providing multiple opportunities to capture the panoramas.
SilverLeaf Service seats are in a single-level custom-made carriage with
oversized windows. Gourmet meals are plated and served at your seat
with complimentary beverages and snacks served throughout your journey.
Regardless of which level of service you book, details such as luggage are
completely taken care of so you can expect your bags to greet you at
your overnight hotel.
For an itinerary that covers the highlights of the Canadian Rockies,
look no further than the 8 day/7 night Western Explorer. A SilverLeaf
package starts from $3559 per person twin share ex Vancouver or
Calgary. Contact our Canada experts for more information on this trip
or to explore our full range of Rocky Mountaineer rail holidays.
*Conditions apply. Please contact us for more details.
ROCKY
MOUNTAINEER
The Rockies on Rails
STAY & PLAY
FREE!
Receive up to $600 per
couple in added value to
spend on additional hotel
nights, tours and more!
1300 363 302 or
your travel agent.

KNIGHT
INLET LODGE
A Secluded Eco-Lodge &
a Sleuth of Bears
Surely one of the most unique properties in the world, Knight
Inlet Lodge floats on a permanent pontoon in the eponymous
channel, 80 kilometres north of Campbell River. The remote
surrounding wilderness of Glendale Cove supports an uncommonly
large concentration of grizzlies, and visitors have reported seeing
over 40 bears around the lodge during peak season.
The lodge welcomes guests from May, the end of spring, when the
area’s black and brown bears have fully emerged from hibernation
and begin gorging themselves on succulent new berries and young
shoots. Viewing from May to June is mostly done from boats,
providing intimate yet non-intrusive encounters with mothers and
their newborn cubs.
High summer – July to mid-August - sees safaris on water as well
as land-based observation, with opportunities to spot the many
orcas that inhabit Johnstone Strait. Late August through to October
(autumn) offer the year’s most thrilling setting; this is when thousands
of pink salmon surge upriver, many straight into the paws of patiently
waiting bears. Specially designed tree and shoreline platforms provide
a safe and proximate position for excellent close-up photographs.
At dusk, retire to your comfortable ensuite room, which boasts
a view of the surrounding old-growth forest. Hearty meals often
featuring fresh seafood are served in the pleasant dining room.
When you aren’t bear-watching, seek out otters, herons and bald
eagles in a sea kayak or enjoy a guided rainforest walk. If visiting
from mid-July, why not discover the region’s varied marine life? A
scenic whale-watching tour often takes in not just killer whales but
also seals, sea lions and porpoises.
For more information please contact our Canada specialists on

CANADASomething for Everyone
The world’s second largest country in landmass is renowned for its vast wilderness and
unique multicultural history. British Columbia is first port of call for most visitors. With
its grizzly-filled forests, salmon-choked waterways, iconic ski slopes and cultured cities, who
could blame them? Some of Canada’s most luxurious rail journeys originate here, crossing
state lines to Alberta, where prairies meet the snow-capped Rocky Mountains. The remote
northern states of Yukon and Manitoba are rich in Inuit and First Nations cultures, with
rugged landscapes populated by polar bears, whales and other Arctic wildlife.
Travellers to America might bemoan the recent devaluation of our currency against the
US dollar. However, we’d like to remind you of the States’ beautiful northern neighbour,
Canada, whose exchange rate remains approximately on par, making it still a very affordable
destination to visit. Canada is perfect any time of year; to put together your ideal holiday,
call 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.
2016 - Volume 1 Supplement

AWS-NFS-Newsletter-2016-Volume1

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