EPICUREAN EXPERIENCES
picurean experiences are centred around the enjoyment of fine food, drink, and refined pleasures. In this Collective, we feature a few partners that embrace this way of hospitality, offering an emphasis on wine and gastronomy experiences.
Please also take a moment to download some recommended restaurant guides featured in various cities.
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.
At Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, the dining experience focuses on sustainability, local sourcing, and regional authenticity. Meals are prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients, much of which is harvested from the reserve’s own organic gardens. The menu changes throughout the year to reflect the availability of produce and the natural influences of the surrounding landscape and coastline. The wine list features a curated selection from the nearby Walker Bay wine region, including varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, chosen to complement the flavours of the cuisine. Dining options range from open-air breakfasts to formal dinners in the on-site restaurant, offering guests a consistent standard of quality rooted in the local environment..
Guests at Grootbos can enjoy wine tasting in the Overberg region, where unique soils and sea breezes create distinctive wines. Guided tours of local farms offer insight into the wines’ origins, and the less crowded routes provide a more intimate, authentic experience.
Some of our team members were recently spoiled with a delicious, authentic South African meal at The Residence Hotel. This is what Tumi, Michelle and Ephodia had to say about their experience: “Our lunch was more than just a meal—it was a cultural experience. The staff began by washing our hands at the table, a thoughtful gesture that set the tone for the traditional South African dish of pap, hardbody chicken, and spinach. Eaten with our hands, the meal was both tactile and delicious, creating a warm, communal atmosphere. The flavours were simple yet deeply satisfying, and the chef’s enthusiasm made the experience even more special. It’s no surprise that many guests return asking for it again—a testament to the power of food in connecting people to place.”
The Residence in Houghton is just 25 minutes from O.R. Tambo International Airport, making it a perfect alternative to traditional airport hotels. Guests staying two nights are able to enjoy complimentary airport transfers to and from OR Tambo as well as Rovos Rail station.
We have curated a list of recommended restaurants for guests travelling to South Africa, Kenya and Zimbabwe. Whether guests are looking for fine dining, traditional cuisine, casual hangouts or hidden gems, our recommendations aim to enhance guest journeys with culinary delights.
Click on the links below to download the Restaurant Guides.
Cape Town – Franschhoek – Stellenbosch – Johannesburg – Nairobi – Victoria Falls
COLLECTIVE MONTHLY WRAP UP
Please click on the link below for all the latest
Third Party Product updates for the month of May.
This month’s update spotlights the following and more:
Federal Air updates.
Amazing Royal Portfolio Specials.
5 night Culinary experience in the Mara.
Xigera Special.
Tanzania property updates.
Keeping the dream alive,
Eluisa Di Benedetto | Product Manager
