SOUTH AFRICA--Again

[kyshel]

I've just spotted the Jock Safari Lodge (Kruger). That's one hefty price/day, but a better price on LL than I have found. The refcently offered South African packages offered by the Mantis Collection look interesting but not my choice of destinations within SA.
I'll still hang in there for some properties I was hoping to see LL offer (see suggested properties forum)

[mmm2009]

hi kyshel, thank you for your posts on SA - they are very helpful. I see you mentioned a comment about Mantis LL packages available and that they are not your choice of destinations in SA - do mind elaborating? I am thinking about taking a trip to SA (never been before) this August and I would like to book a LL package, and the Mantis packages looked very enticing - are there better places to visit for a first time visit to SA? Thanks so much!

[kyshel]

Really good question. It's location for me. I adore Cape Town and surroundings. I have not been to a "safari" lodge in Eastern Cape (even tho it's malariai -free, it just doesn't have the big game appeal to us)--I will say the Mkuze Falls package is superb value and it's not difficult to get there.
Any place you stay in Madikwe is fruitful for game drives. I think what I don't care for about the Mantis pkgs is there are so many extras to add to the cost. If you consult with one of the true destination experts of tripadvisor, you'll be better served IF you are willing to do some of your own driving. Madikwe is 4 hrs from Joburg--Mkuze is 6-7 (as is Kruger) but you can also visit the Zulu battlefields if you go that way.
I know alot of people have no idea how FAR apart JNB, CPT and otehr major cities are--mountians between and so on. What kind of time do you have and is your priority a safari?
I will happily answer further.
Cheers!

Oh--see the posts ftom Betsyv and me about Mantis' Dwyka Lodge