Enriching Encounters
Travel involves more than mere sightseeing; it encompasses enriching encounters that cultivate profound connections with local cultures, traditions, wildlife, and people.
Join us in this Collective as we share experiences that create lasting impressions beyond the journey itself.
Elephant Havens in Maun offers travelers an enriching encounter with Africa’s gentle giants. This conservation sanctuary provides a rare opportunity to observe and interact with rescued, orphaned elephants, fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife protection. Visitors can witness the elephants’ rehabilitation journey, engage with dedicated caretakers, and learn about sustainable conservation efforts that ensure these majestic creatures thrive in their natural habitat. Beyond a simple wildlife experience, Elephant Havens creates meaningful connections that inspire a profound respect for nature and the communities working tirelessly to protect it.
Did you know?
Great Plains is able to arrange a helicopter transfer to Elephant Havens from any of our Great Plains camps as a memorable excursion for guests. An alternative option is to forgo the arrival night in Johannesburg and instead spend the night at Elephant Havens in Maun, just a 45-minute transfer from the airport. The following day, guests can either return to Maun by road or enjoy a scenic helicopter flight directly to our camps.
A Cape Town Culinary Walking Tour is a flavorful journey through the city’s rich food culture, blending history, storytelling, and tastings. Explore diverse neighborhoods like Bo-Kaap and the City Bowl, sampling traditional dishes such as bobotie, samoosas, and koeksisters while discovering the multicultural influences behind them. Visit hidden gems, local markets, and family-run eateries, with opportunities to taste Cape wines, craft gins, or rooibos tea. Along the way, engage with passionate chefs and artisans who bring Cape Town’s vibrant culinary heritage to life.
Did you know?
Some of the Cape Town Culinary Walking Tours include a visit to a spice shop in Bo-Kaap. Here guests can learn about the Cape Malay community’s centuries-old spice blends. These unique flavors, like masala and turmeric-infused curries, are a key part of South Africa’s food identity and were brought to the Cape by enslaved people from Indonesia, India, and Madagascar in the 17th century.
Babylonstoren in Franschhoek, South Africa is a working wine and olive farm, producing exceptional wines and olive oils. Guests can immerse themselves in curated experiences, from wine tastings and farm tours to workshops on gardening, beekeeping, and breadmaking. The luxury accommodations, spa, and wellness offerings provide a tranquil retreat. Every element of Babylonstoren reflects a commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and mindful living, making it more than just a destination—it’s an experience that nourishes the soul and takes you back to your roots.
Did you know?
The 2025 Babylonstoren calendar is inspired by the ever-changing beauty of their garden. It captures the shifting moods, colors, and flavors of each season. They have also embraced sustainability by including three sheets of rescued paper (paper that’s been discontinued or otherwise discarded by printers across South Africa)—perfect for wrapping flowers or crafting. This could also be a thoughtful gift.
COLLECTIVE MONTHLY WRAP UP
Please click on the link below for all the latest Third Party Product updates
for the month of March.
Tamara Potash, one of our Senior Safari Designers, visited Santorini in Mozambique. This is what she has to say about her experience:
“From the moment I landed at Vilankulo Airport, I was welcomed by the warm and friendly hospitality I was to experience for the rest of my stay. Santorini is simply heaven on earth. Without tainting the word barefoot luxury, this truly was just that!
A short road transfer led us to the property, which is truly a hidden gem and home away from home. The ocean views on arrival, never lost our sight until we returned to the airport.
It is a short walk down to the beach where you can simply relax, enjoy a swim in the ocean or venture out on a boat trip, sunset cruise, snorkeling trip to the nearby Bazaruto island, beach picnic, dhow trip, fishing or kite surfing (costs on request), there is something here for everyone.
I didn’t think I could feel more relaxed, until I had a massage at the spa!
This is the perfect honeymoon getaway, a romantic holiday for couples or even a special break for families or multi-generational families. Santorini really does offer everything and more, as the perfect beach getaway” – Tamara Potash.
A special thank you to Vanessa, Christi, and Kim Beyers for their incredible hospitably and for hosting Tamara.
Please contact our Safari Designers for more information on our preferred partners in this Collective edition.
Keeping the dream alive,
Eluisa Di Benedetto | Product Manager
