Kusini Weekly Update – May 4th

Bush walks on Mhondoro promise incredible scenery with the chance to see some of the reserve’s 50 mammal species.

‘Tis the season, and we’re looking forward to seeing many of you at INDABA this weekend. Tad and Sonya will be attending along with New Frontiers Tours, Imvelo Safari Lodges, Ultimate Safaris and Albatros Travel. Don’t forget our ‘Durban style’ sundowners party on Sunday May 8th from 5 – 7:30pm at the Big Easy Wine Bar at the ICC Hilton. The event is being hosted by the Kusini Collection, Imvelo Safari Lodges, Ultimate Safaris Namibia, Albatros Travel and Adventure Travel Trade Association! RSVP here.

Guatemala’s markets are a riot of color

Maya Trails: Maya Trails’ 2016 Signature Itineraries have something for everyone – including shoppers. Their Unique Markets trip offers pax more than a week of exploring Guatemala’s colorful and diverse markets. From the famous Chichicastenango to lesser-known gems like Santa Catarina Palopo, travelers will delight in the sights, sounds and handcrafted wares on offer. Textiles are a highlight, both in their quality and design, as well as meeting locals dressed in traditional attire. Pax also get behind the scenes of Guatemala’s coffee industry and enjoy tasting some of their fantastic brews. Contact Adrianasales@mayatrails.com.gt for more information.

Ultimate Safaris: Ultimate Safaris continues to make an impact with their important conservation work in collaboration with their Conservation Travel Foundation. They were recognized in this year’s African Responsible Tourism Awards as a silver winner in ‘Best for Wildlife Conservation‘ for their innovative safaris where guests enjoy the privilege of interacting with those involved in local conservation projects. Because of the Foundation’s conservation leadership, they were invited to participate in ‘The Conservation Lab’ at We Are Africa this year. Stay tuned – we’ll share details of the event in an upcoming newsletter.

Mhondoro’s unique, water-level hide allows for very intimate game viewing

New Frontiers: With availability in South Africa’s well-known reserves becoming a challenge, New Frontiers can provide expert advice on alternatives that deliver for your pax. Welgevonden Private GR sits in the Waterberg (just 3 hours’ drive from JNB!) and hosts a huge variety of wildlife, including the Big 5. Mhondoro is a stunning luxury lodge set on one of the reserve’s most scenic spots. Recently renovated, its 5 unique suites and private villa cater for anyone from honeymooners to families. The villa is an exceptional value for a family getaway (for up to 6 guests) – see pricing and details in Faith’s full trip report.

Tropic Ecuador: Gretchen is headed to Ecuador this week with  Tropic Ecuador. She will explore several of the country’s diverse ecosystems, including the Galapagos Islands, the Andes Highlands and the Amazon, all while in the company of Tropic’s expert guides. Ecuador’s tourist regions and infrastructure are fully functional after the earthquake last month, and there have been no issues for travelers. Don’t forget to encourage your Ecuador travelers to post their photos on social media with the #EcuadorNOW hashtag! Keep an eye out on Facebook and Twitter for live updates during her trip.

Teachers were enthusiastic in helping to paint and decorate classrooms

Imvelo Safari Lodges: The 3rd annual English Language Teacher Training Workshop run by Imvelo Safari Lodges and Hwange Schools Project took place in March. The workshop was held at Ngamo Primary School in Ngamo Village, near Bomani and Camelthorn Lodges. The goal was to introduce teachers to innovative methods of teaching grammar, phonics and creative writing. In addition to the workshop, two classrooms were entirely renovated to provide a better and brighter learning environment. The teachers’ game drive was once again a huge highlight, including a great lion sighting! Read the full story and see photos on Imvelo’s Facebook page.