Courtney Drysdale

When it comes to planning a safari, East Africa and Southern Africa stand out as 2 prominent regions, each offering a unique blend of attractions and experiences. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the comparisons to help you decide which safari destination suits your preferences, from the differences between these destinations, how much these African safaris can cost, what the best safari activities are and much more.

Introducing Channels for Change: Making a Roaring Difference from Your Couch. Welcome to our latest recommendation for the month! As you relax with your favourite Ben & Jerry's, join us in discovering how those at Phinda Game Reserve in South Africa and around the world are working towards protecting one of the Big 5’s most famous members.

Planning a safari adventure is an exciting experience, but choosing the right destination can be a daunting task. South Africa and Botswana are both renowned for their incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive safari experiences. In this blog, we'll delve into the key differences between a safari in South Africa and Botswana, helping you make an informed decision as you book your dream trip.

This month’s Channels for Change edition takes you on a journey through the history and environmental struggles of the Kowie River in the Eastern Cape of South Africa and also highlights those who are working to make things right. Gain a deeper understanding of social and environmental justice while immersing yourself in the powerful narrative of this precious river's past and present.

Here’s your ultimate compact guide to Rwanda. A Rwanda experience can be broken up into a few key elements: a vibrant culture, truly life-changing wildlife experiences — including gorilla trekking and a chance to see the Big 5 — and a dramatic landscape bursting with life. Each has its own distinctions that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Namibia and Botswana are 2 popular destinations in Southern Africa for safari enthusiasts and for very good reason. Both countries offer unique wildlife , stunning scenery, and an uncrowded, unpretentious safari experience. However, there are several differences between the 2 when it comes to animal sightings, scenery, privacy, types of stays available, access to cities, and experiences. In this blog, we will explore these differences to help you decide whether Namibia or Botswana (or both) are best for your next safari adventure.

You’ve probably heard the term ‘sustainable aviation fuel’ flying around, but what is it? Is it a viable alternative to traditional and harmful jet fuel, and who uses it? In this blog post, fellow responsible travellers, we will unpack why sustainable aviation fuel is a great alternative to jet fuel and how these changes are being implemented as we speak… ✈️

Are you a thrill seeker looking for a unique and exciting adventure? Look no further than Botswana! Botswana is home to some of the most incredible safaris in the world, and there's something for everyone, from luxury travellers to budget backpackers. In this blog post, we will explain everything from when to visit Botswana, what wildlife you can see on safari, the different types of safari, must-see locations and much more!

When planning your ultimate holiday to South Africa, you may immediately think of Cape Town – and for a good reason. The ‘Mother City’, as it is endearingly known by locals, not only offers a range of exciting experiences but also surprisingly, the chance to go on a classic — and malaria-free — African safari. Whether you’re looking for a short drive away or a quick flight, you’ll find the perfect wild adventure to fit your travel plans. In this blog post, we’ll explain how you can pair beautiful beaches with wonderful wildlife at these stunning destinations.

Bush Ways Safaris understands the importance of sustainability for our planet and people. They take pride in their commitment to eco-friendly practices, responsible tourism, and conservation of the environment. Read on to learn how Bush Ways strives to ensure their safaris have a minimal environmental and maximum social impact while providing guests with an unforgettable and sustainable experience.

When it comes to luxury and sustainability, the two don’t have to be mutually exclusive. If you’re looking to travel in style while ensuring you’re doing your part to help the planet, sustainable destinations like Botswana and Namibia are perfectly opulent spots. Known for their pristine landscapes, gorgeous wildlife, and luxurious stays, Botswana and Namibia have become go-to destinations for those looking to enjoy a luxurious and sustainable holiday.

Looking to treat your special someone to an unforgettable romantic getaway — look no further than a honeymoon safari in Botswana. This incredible destination has been the backdrop for many romantic stories, from royal couple Prince Harry and Meghan Markle falling in love in the Okavango Delta, to silver-screen stars Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton choosing Chobe as the spot for their second wedding. Read on for our Complete Guide to Honeymooning in Botswana...

From the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans to the Okavango Delta, the distinctive Kalahari and wildlife-rich Chobe Region, Botswana is full of unique stays that offer truly unforgettable safari experiences ranging from Big 5 game drives to relaxing mokoro excursions. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious lodge, an adventure camp, a river escape on a barge or a mobile tented camp, Botswana has you covered.

On Dream Greener, a community-based podcast focused on sustainability and climate heroes, Kamea Chayne hosts Sinegugu Zukulu, a passionate advocate for rural development, ecotourism, agriculture, and youth empowerment. Sinegugu uses this platform to discuss the threats to land security and the significance of indigenous cultures in protecting South Africa’s Pondoland on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape.

Viatu is proud to announce that we have registered as members of 1% for the Planet so that we can start to carve away a more sustainable future for travel and, as a result, the beautiful places that we offer as destinations for those who live in them. 1% for the Planet is a groundbreaking organisation that partners with different sustainable companies and individuals across the globe.

Lush, wild and vibrant are just a few words that are used to describe KwaZulu-Natal, or KZN, in South Africa. KwaZulu-Natal is celebrated for its white sandy beaches, dramatic mountains, pristine parks and wetlands — all together known as the seat of the mighty Zulu nation. In this complete guide, we will explore the marvellous holiday destinations in KZN and what makes them so special.

A safari experience is one of the most exciting and memorable vacations one can take. It is a great way to explore untouched destinations, spot some of the world's most amazing wildlife, and get an up-close and personal look into their natural habitats. There are two main ways many people experience a safari: self-drive and guided. In this blog post, we will break each of these terms down and suggest the best ways to book a tailored safari experience that fits you best.

The Lalibela Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It is a 10.500 ha private game reserve that spans 5 ecosystems and is home to various species of wildlife. The reserve offers a unique malaria-free safari experience and is committed to conservation and sustainability. Read on as we walk through the wilderness of Lalibela Game Reserve to find out why it should be your next sustainable safari destination…

Here at Viatu, we love groups that champion sustainability and make meaningful contributions to the communities and the wild spaces in which they sit. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, a malaria-free safari escape or the perfect cultural getaway, Morukuru has everything you could want, with a sustainable ethos at the heart of each stay.

For various reasons, KwaZulu-Natal (or KZN as the locals call it) is a popular holiday destination in South Africa. It offers a range of landscapes, from beaches to mountains and forests, and is known for its rich cultural heritage. There is something for everyone, from wildlife safaris to historical sites, outdoor activities, adventure sports, and more. Read on to find out why you should book your next holiday in KwaZulu-Natal…

Isibindi lodges allow you to visit gorgeous beaches and exclusive safari destinations while participating in multiple sustainable practices. The Isibindi group exemplifies holistic sustainability, serving communities and wildlife in spectacularly wild destinations. Read on to find out why Isibindi lodges are so influential in the sustainable tourism movement...

We strive to partner with suppliers who champion sustainability and make meaningful contributions to the communities and the wilderness in which they operate. Offering secluded escapes in the most exclusive biodiversity hotspots, Singita upholds these principles in various ways. Read on to discover why Singita is a top sustainable destination.

We at Viatu have created the ultimate compact guide to Botswana. In some shape or form, nearly half of Botswana is a protected area and this sustainable mindset extends into its varied luxury and affordable stays. Botswana transforms when the rains come and also has plenty of hidden gems, from lush deltas to stark salt pans making it an incredible all-around holiday destination.

For this edition of Channels for Change, we follow the team at Shamwari Game Reserve with the 13-part docu-series Shamwari Untamed. The series highlights the responsible tourism efforts of Shamwari Game Reserve, including all the amazing conservation work that they do, particularly that of protecting their rhino population. 🦏

The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s most incredible safari destinations, with some of the best animal sightings and most beautiful landscapes on the continent. In this blog, we will explore the top 5 reasons why we love the Kruger National Park.

The Greater Kruger Area boasts unique private game reserves, each offering up a truly unforgettable safari experience with the assurance of incredible wildlife sightings. Read on to find our list that explores some of the best private game reserves in Africa.

Explore our top 10 eco-friendly and sustainable stays in South Africa. Whether you want to go on a safari, a beach holiday, whale watching or a relaxation retreat - rest assured you're making a difference staying at these forward-thinking, responsible stays.