POD CAMPS BAY

SOUTH AFRICA

The Personalities

Trendy design-lovers with a taste for luxury.

Moments

Exotic Wildlife. Barefoot luxury. Sounds of the Sea.

Best Visiting Months

October to March

Cost

Why stay

Perched atop the pristine coastline of Camps Bay, POD Boutique Hotel emerges as a beacon of modern luxury amidst the natural wonders of South Africa. Situated just a stone's throw away from the powdery sands of Camps Bay Beach, the hotel offers guests unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Twelve Apostles mountain range. Azure waters and rugged cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop to the contemporary design of the hotel.

Drawing inspiration from its spectacular surroundings, POD Boutique Hotel seamlessly blends modern design with elements of nature. The hotel's minimalist aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and neutral tones, serves to accentuate the natural beauty of its surroundings, allowing guests to feel a profound connection to the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interiors with natural light, while expansive terraces and balconies invite guests to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the ocean, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that epitomizes the essence of coastal living.

Why wander

You don't have to wander far to enjoy true South African nature at POD, with the ocean in front of you and the mountains at your back. Cape Town is famous for its beautiful beaches with white sand and clear water. Visit Camps Bay beach, minutes from the hotel, for a Mediterranean vibe and great restaurants. The Clifton Beaches are characterized by dramatic cliffs and are perfect for yacht watching. Finally, for a romantic picnic visit Llandudno Beach, located at the base of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. To venture out for the day, take a trip to Robben Island to see a wide spectrum of seabirds and mammals, or Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - the most beautiful garden in Africa. For those living an active lifestyle and looking for adrenaline, take a surfing lesson or see the beautiful Cape Town coastline from up high, while skydiving. 

Indulge in

Caipirinhas on the beach. Visit The Cod Father in Camps Bay for great sushi and fresh fish cooked to order. While in the Winelands, visit The Tasting Room, one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, offering creative high-end fare or Babel - for fresh and heathy food from their personal garden.

Getting There

Take a taxi from the Cape Town Airport. 

WILD INITIATIVES

POD supports Greenpop and offers guests the opportunity to offset a portion of their carbon emission by purchasing trees that will be planted in schools, communities and deforested areas in the Western Cape. For more information, please visit www.greenpop.org

POD Camps Bay is committed to conserving the environment and delivering a sustainable hotel operation. During the construction of the property, environmentally friendly building practices were followed and the latest (Green) technology was incorporated into the hotel.

Below is a list of our sustainability systems and policies that we have in place: 

• Solar panel system to aid the heating of the hotels hot water system

• Hot water cylinders controlled by a computerized “Brain” to regulate energy consumption

• Borehole connected to irrigation and all pools

• Flow restrictors installed in all shower heads

• Dual flush toilets installed in all areas of the hotel

• Low wattage and LED bulbs where possible

• Motion sensors control lighting in basement and storage areas

• Key card access system switches off all power to the guest rooms when not occupied

• Air Conditioning in rooms connected to door sensors which stop operation if opened

• Towel & linen re-use policy in all rooms

• Gas hob used in the kitchen

• Paper, plastic and glass recycling done on site

• Biodegradable Paper straws, cups and containers

• Environmentally friendly chemicals used daily by housekeeping

*Images property of Pod Boutique hotel, Adam Letch, Allan Mccreadie

Lion Sands

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Wildlife lovers. Travellers looking for a once in a lifetime safari experience. Adventurous Families. Honeymooners.

MOMENTS

Organic architecture. Remote bush dinners. Hundreds of lanterns hanging from giant trees. Family of elephant crossing the river in front of your eyes. Falling asleep with The Milky Way as your ceiling.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime! May to September is cooler, but wildlife is easier to spot. 

COST

WHY STAY

Lion Sands is an award-winning safari retreat in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, on the edge of Kruger National Park in South Africa.

The reserve consists of four lodges, built with their surroundings in mind, incorporating steel, wood, thatch, glass, water & sand. Stay in the River Lodge, the only private reserve to have access to the Sabie River, with the rooms connected by wooden walkways, offering unparalleled game viewing. The ultra-lux and modern Ivory Lodge consists of 9 villas, complete with lounge areas and private swimming pools. Choose The Tinga Lodge for retro safari design and wooden viewing decks or the Narina Lodge, located under 100 year old trees and overlooking the Sabie River.

For a once in a lifetime experience, spend the night under the stars in one of the Lion Sands’ Treehouses. Listen to wildlife come alive around you. Take in the views of the iconic African plains at dusk.

WHY WANDER

Discover true South Africa wilderness inside Kruger National Park. Go on a walking safari or a game drive and spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant). Take a trip to the Hippo Pools. Fly over Blyde River Canyon in a helicopter. Discover an environment as old as time.

INDULGE IN

Gourmet cuisine catered to your taste.

GETTING THERE

The reserve is a 2-hour drive from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. 

GET INVOLVED

“More Community Foundation is the arm of the business delivering on sustainable community and conservation projects in the areas surrounding our Lodges and Hotels. More Community Foundation’s purpose is to give long-term, meaningful assistance to the communities in which MORE operates and to empower local people.

WHY – We empower people in our local communities.

HOW – By uplifting the standard of living through support and access to basic education and childcare; skills development through community-based development initiatives; access to fresh water and health facilities; and developing overall environmental health.

WHAT – We connect people (individuals and businesses) to communities through professional and sustainable projects and partnerships.”

Please visit www.morecommunityfoundation.org for more detailed information.

*Images property of Lion Sands Game Reserve

Babylonstoren

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Wine lovers and foodies. Families and friends looking for an upscale farm experience. 

MOMENTS

Cycling through the vineyard. Relaxing in a garden filled with exotic granadillas, pineapples, and dragonfruit. Smell of ginger, cardamom, and vanilla in the air. Complimentary wine bar.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime, but October to March is the warmest. 

COST

WHY STAY

Babylonstoren, located in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, is a historic farm that offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and luxurious amenities. The estate is centered around an expansive, meticulously maintained garden that forms the heart of the property. Covering over eight acres, the garden is home to a diverse array of fruit orchards, vegetable patches, and fragrant herb beds, all laid out in a visually stunning yet functional design. Guests are encouraged to explore and even pick fresh produce, deepening their connection to the land and its seasonal rhythms.

The architecture at Babylonstoren reflects a harmonious balance between heritage and modernity. The whitewashed Cape Dutch-style buildings are complemented by contemporary structures made from glass and steel, allowing for stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, mountains, and gardens. Every detail, from the reclaimed wood furniture to the minimalist interiors, is thoughtfully curated to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Large windows and open spaces invite natural light and blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, providing a serene and immersive experience.

Babylonstoren’s amenities further enhance its appeal as a wellness and leisure destination. Guests can indulge in farm-to-table dining at the property’s acclaimed restaurants, where dishes are crafted using ingredients sourced directly from the garden. The spa offers a range of treatments inspired by the natural surroundings, while the outdoor pool and hammam provide opportunities for relaxation. For those seeking adventure, the estate features scenic walking and cycling trails that meander through vineyards and along the Berg River. Babylonstoren is more than a retreat—it’s a place where nature and design come together to offer an unforgettable escape.

WHY WANDER

Explore all 200 hectares of the farm. Take the garden tour and see all the fruits and vegetables organically grown at Babylonstoren. Partake in harvesting the fruit or pruning the wines. Take the cellar tour and learn about the winemaking process, which includes wine tasting of course. Hike up Babylonstoren Hill or take a canoe through a river. Take advantage of the complimentary mountain bikes. Visit the Greenhouse for tea and homemade scones in the afternoon. 

INDULGE IN

Organic food from the garden. Wine from 13 different grape varieties. Visit the Babel restaurant for contemporary, seasonal dishes. Take a piece of Babylonstoren home with you with something from their Cheese and Bread Shop. 

GETTING THERE

Take a taxi or a rented car from the Cape Town Airport. 

WILD INITIATIVES

The farm prioritizes organic farming methods, utilizing natural pest control, composting, and crop rotation to maintain soil health and reduce environmental impact. Efficient water management is also crucial, with advanced irrigation systems and rainwater harvesting in place to conserve water in this drought-prone region. Renewable energy plays a significant role, with solar panels providing clean energy for various operations, thereby lowering the farm's carbon footprint. Biodiversity is actively preserved and enhanced, with extensive gardens home to a variety of plant species that attract beneficial insects and birds, creating a balanced ecosystem. Effective waste management practices, including recycling, composting organic waste, and reducing single-use plastics, further minimize the farm's environmental impact. The hospitality offerings at Babylonstoren, including the hotel and restaurants, emphasize sustainability by sourcing ingredients directly from the farm, reducing food miles, and implementing eco-friendly practices. Additionally, Babylonstoren is dedicated to educating visitors and the local community about sustainable farming and living through workshops, tours, and interactive experiences. The conservation of historical buildings and cultural heritage also forms a core part of the farm's sustainability ethos, ensuring that its historical significance is preserved for future generations.

*Images property of Babylonstoren Hotel

Marataba Safari Lodge

SOUTH AFRICA

Personalities

Explorers, Wildlife lovers, Photographers, Adventure Seekers.

Moments

Animal calls at night all around you. The clearest skies. Boat cruise at sundown. Being at one with nature yet luxuriously comfortable.

Best Visiting Months

October to March

Cost

Why Stay

Marataba Safari Lodge, nestled within the Marakele National Park in South Africa against the dramatic backdrop of the Waterberg Mountains, offers a unique blend of luxurious accommodation, an immersive safari experience and profound ecological stewardship.

Choose between 15 beautiful canvas-and-stone suites, each with a private viewing deck, a free-standing stone bath and an outdoor shower. Take advantage of the dramatic scenery of the red sandstone mountains and the river below. The main lodge has a large fireplace, to exchange stories by, a swimming pool to cool off during the day and numerous hammocks in the trees. Marataba offers an opportunity to see animals rarely seen anywhere else, because of its location in the transitional zone between the western and eastern regions of South Africa. 

Why wander

Enjoy the wildlife of the Marakele National Park - from elephant and rhino to over 30 leopards and a growing lion population. Take a Game Drive and learn about the animals's behaviours and habitat. A game walk will take you through the designated routes around the park and see the flora and fauna unique to the region. Take a sunset boat ride on the river that runs through the property and see the animals from water level. 

Indulge in

Outdoor BBQ

Getting There

Fly into Oliver Tambo International Airport and arrange a car to take you to Marataba. 

WILD INITIATIVES

Marataba is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation, actively participating in wildlife protection programs, including the preservation of endangered species and anti-poaching initiatives. The lodge operates with a strong focus on eco-friendly practices, such as using solar energy, minimizing waste, and sourcing local, organic produce for its culinary offerings.

*Images property of MARATABA SAFARI LODGE

Bushmans Kloof

SOUTH AFRICA

PERSONALITIES

Explorers. Wildlife lovers. Photographers. Adventure Seekers. Rock Enthusiasts. 

MOMENTS

Plains of wilderness. Afternoon high tea. Peaceful game drives. Pink and blue sunsets. 

BEST VISITING MONTHS

October to March

COST

WHY STAY

Bushmans Kloof is an award-winning South African lodge, located at the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains. The retreat offers unique luxury accommodation complete with an unparalleled wilderness experience. There are 16 rooms and suites to choose from, as well as a private villa for up to 10 guests - the Koro Lodge. Enjoy open plains, botanical gardens and ancient sandstone formations surrounding the area. Relax in the outdoor gazebo, dine anywhere on the vast property or simply take in this ecological oasis. 

WHY WANDER

Travellers visiting Bushman's Kloof will be here to take in the spectacular surroundings and enjoy the personalized tours. Swim in secret waterfalls or kayak in the river, running through the reserve. Hike across the rock formations or roam the plains, where you may spot the elusive Cape Leopard, living in the nearby mountains. Other animals to look out for are Bat-Eared Fox, African Wildcat, Cape Fox, Caracal (African Lynx), Cape Clawless Otter, and Baboon to name a few.

INDULGE IN

Try the traditional South African braai (barbeque). Enjoy the hotel's own organic garden. Dine anywhere on the property with nothing but the sounds of wildlife around you - deep in the reserve or on the banks of a river. 

GETTING THERE

Take a 3 hour scenic drive from Cape Town. 

WILD INITIATIVES

Bushmans Kloof has protected and saved the largest private Cape Mountain Zebra herd from the brink of extinction. 

*Images property of Bushmans Kloof

Tsala Treetop Lodge

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Lovers and friends looking for an enchanted forest experience. 

MOMENTS

Sundowners in the canopy of the trees. Personal huts-on-stilts. Open decks high above the forest floor. Wandering through giant Outeniqua yellowwood.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime, but October to March is the warmest. 

COST

WHY STAY

Tsala is a luxury treetop lodge in the largest tract of natural forest in South Africa, located along the Garden Route - a 300km stretch of the coast from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River in the Eastern Cape. The retreat is surrounded by ancient indigenous trees, rolling valleys, and velvet hills.

Stay in one of ten Treetop suites or one of six two-bedroom Treetop Villas, built into the canopy, and complete with wraparound verandahs and infinity plunge pools. Enjoy glass walls with views to the surrounding forest, free-standing tubs, and sun loungers. The design echoes natural fabrics, earthy colours, and raw textures, resembling stone and ebony. 

Tsala works hard to preserve the animals and the environment  within the property as well as support the local community.

WHY WANDER

Wander the property and learn about its many species of trees. Hike to the scenic Robberg Peninsula or through the Garden of Eden Forest. Go mountain biking along the Garden Route. Snorkel with African fur seals or go whale watching. Visit the free flight bird sanctuary or the world’s first free multi-specie primate sanctuary. Go Paddle Boarding through the peaceful Keurbooms River. Sail though the majestic Knysna Heads cliffs. Try surfing at the Plettenberg Bay. Go bungy jumping at Bloukrans - the World’s Highest Commercial Bungy Jump at 216m. Go cage dive diving with Great White Sharks - a truly once in a lifetime experience.

INDULGE IN

Visit Tsala's wine cellar for some interesting South African discoveries.

GETTING THERE

Fly into Cape Town and rent a car for a beautiful journey. 

*Images property of Tsala Treetop Lodge

Angala Boutique Hotel

SOUTH AFRICA

The Personalities

Winos, Honeymooners, Photographers, Writers, Soul-Searchers.

MOMENTS

Wandering through ancient vineyards. Michelin-star food beautifully paired with local wines. Reawakening your senses.

Best Visiting Months

October to March

Cost

Why stay

Angala Boutique Hotel, situated in the picturesque Cape Winelands of South Africa, offers an oasis of tranquility and luxury combined with a strong commitment to sustainability. Nestled in the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountains, the retreat provides guests with a serene environment characterized by lush gardens, pristine pools, and breathtaking views.

Choose between a suite or a cottage, with views to the mountains or the valley. Look out onto a secluded garden or the pond from your balcony or a private veranda. Wellness and relaxation are central to the Angala experience, with facilities such as a natural pool (where the ecosystem mimics the streams, rivers and ponds), infrared sauna, and yoga sessions designed to promote well-being.

Why wander

Make Angala your starting point for exploring the Cape winelands or Cape Town. Hop on a Wine Tram and discover Franschhoek Wine Route among other South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates. Take a day trip to Cape Town's Table Mountain, the city's most famous icon, visible from 200km out at sea. Hike or take a cable car to the top and enjoy spectacular views of the city on the water. For a wild life lover, South Africa is the perfect destination. Take a whale watching tour, and don't be surprised when you encounter dolphins, seals and penguins along the way. If you are looking for extreme adrenaline, shark cage diving at Gansbaai is the ultimate experience.

Indulge in

Fresh gourmet food. Breakfast outside with fresh baked pastries. South African wine. 

Getting There

Fly into Cape Town and reach Angala by car or a pickup service.

WILD INITIATIVES

The hotel sources local and organic ingredients for its culinary offerings, ensuring a farm-to-table dining experience that supports regional farmers and reduces food miles.

*Photos property of ANGALA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Kagga Kamma NATURE RESERVE

SOUTH AFRICA

THE PERSONALITIES

Hikers, Photographers, Rock Enthusiasts, Wildlife lovers.  

MOMENTS

Watching the stars. Modern day caves. Sundowner drives. Adventure trails and memories.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

The warm months are between September and March.

COST

WHY STAY

Kagga Kamma, located in the heart of the Cederberg Mountains in South Africa, is a unique nature reserve renowned for its striking landscapes. This remote retreat offers an array of distinctive accommodations, from luxurious cave suites carved into sandstone formations to charming thatched huts that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.

The accommodation choices are the reason that you are here. Choose the Outcrop Open Air Room to sleep under the stars, while listening to the sounds of the night on a remote rocky outcrop with a bedside fire. Another unique option are the Bushman Lodges. Choose one of five thatched rondavels or one of ten cave suites, built into the rock formations. Explore the formations closely from your private terrace. During the hot summer months, cool off in the swimming pool, seamlessly blending in between large rocks.

WHY WANDER

There is more than enough to keep the adventurous occupied at Kagga Kamma. Take a scenic ride around the area on a mountain bike or a 4x4. Enjoy the unique game viewing and see Cederberg's famous landscapes. History lovers will enjoy Ancient rock art sites nearby. Visit the Mini Observatory at the end of the day to see billions of stars and make a wish to come back.

INDULGE IN

Try the Cape Malay Lamb Curry or the Braised Lamb Shank. The Austrian Chocolate Cake is also a favourite.

GETTING THERE

Fly into Cape Town and arrange a car rental to enjoy the self-drive through the Cape Winelands and into the Cederberg.

WILD INITIATIVES

Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve strives towards a better, cleaner future; as such the Lodge continually assesses ways in which to become more environmentally friendly. During the year 2013, Kagga Kamma was awarded the RCI Green Award at the RCI OSCAS for installing a Solar Photovoltaic Hybrid Energy System. This hybrid energy system provides around-the-clock environmentally-friendly power to the entire Lodge which reduces hazardous emissions, and therefore, the Lodge’s carbon footprint. Furthermore, Kagga Kamma’s water is supplied from an onsite borehole water source. The decision was also reached in 2019 to switch from plastic water bottles for in-room use to glass bottles, and the onsite facilities only make use of biodegradable straws.

Kagga Kamma provides a combination of experiences that focus on the unique natural environment and rich cultural history that are at the heart of the Kagga Kamma story. The aim is to provide opportunities for guests to experience the natural treasures and fascinating fauna and flora, which make Kagga Kamma so special, first-hand. The protected Nature Reserve is home to a number of endemic and endangered species, such as the Spectacled Dormouse and Bontebok, and the Lodge is dedicated to maintaining a balanced ecosystem to preserve these species’ habitats. As a protected heritage site, the Lodge is aiming to protect the San and Khoi rock art which are scattered across the property and our popular Rock Art Tour shares the incredible history of these cultures. Our mission is ongoing in making Kagga Kamma an established eco-Lodge and green holiday destination.

*Images property of KAGGA KAMMA NATURE RESERVE