At Hays Travel, we believe a Luxury safari is more than a holiday—it’s a transformational journey into the heart of the African wilderness, designed to awaken all your senses and create memories that last a lifetime. Our exclusive South Africa Luxury Safari Plains package invites you to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat, relax in five-star tented accommodation, and immerse yourself in local culture. With over 50 years of combined travel expertise, our specialist team—Louise and Scott—will curate every detail, ensuring seamless and stress-free planning from the moment you contact us.
Our signature safari is set in the renowned Mabula Game Reserve, part of the UNESCO-registered Waterberg Biosphere. This malaria-free sanctuary boasts rolling savannah grasslands, dramatic mountain backdrops, and an abundance of wildlife including elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, and leopard. Each day brings a new opportunity for adventure, reflection, and connection with Africa’s untamed beauty.
Every element of your journey is fully ATOL protected and ABTA bonded, providing you with complete financial security and peace of mind. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first safari, you’ll benefit from the personal guidance of Louise and Scott—two travel artists dedicated to crafting tailor-made experiences.
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Why Choose Hays Travel Experts Louise & Scott?
Selecting the right travel partner is crucial when planning an immersive experience such as a luxury safari. Louise and Scott have accumulated over five decades of combined expertise in African travel, luxury escapes, and wildlife adventures. Their insider knowledge gives you access to exclusive game reserves, top-tier accommodations, and hidden cultural gems that mainstream tours often miss.
Louise began her career as an Africa lodge manager, building relationships with local operators, wildlife experts, and cultural custodians. Scott started as a safari guide, leading small expedition groups across Botswana, Tanzania, and South Africa. Together they formed a dynamic duo at Hays Travel, merging their backgrounds to curate authentically luxurious itineraries tailored to discerning travellers.
When you plan with Louise and Scott at Hays Travel, you gain:
- Personalised itinerary design based on your travel style and interests
- Priority access to new luxury lodge openings and private concessions
- Expert insight into wildlife behavior, local ecosystems, and conservation initiatives
- Seamless ground transportation, domestic flights, and five-star hospitality
- Uncompromising ATOL protection and ABTA financial bonding for your safety
Our ABTA and ATOL Protection
All arrangements booked through Hays Travel are fully protected by ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) and covered by ABTA (The Travel Association). This dual protection means your flights, accommodations, transfers, and tours are safeguarded against unforeseen circumstances such as operator insolvency or airline cancellations. You travel with absolute confidence that your funds are secure and your trip is protected from start to finish.
ATOL protection covers your air flights and the part of your package that includes flight content. ABTA membership ensures our financial procedures meet rigorous industry standards and provides an additional layer of customer care if something goes wrong. As ABTA members, we adhere to a code of conduct that prioritises honest advertising, accurate representations, sustainable tourism practices, and prompt handling of any issues.
Luxury Safari Plains Package Overview
Our ten-day Luxury Safari Plains package is an elegant fusion of comfort, adventure, and authentic cultural engagement. Ideal for couples, families, and small groups up to 12 travellers, this journey begins and ends at South Africa’s King Shaka International Airport in Durban, with direct flights from Heathrow. We also arrange departures from Manchester, Belfast, Newcastle, and Glasgow at no additional cost.
Highlights include six guided game drives with a resident wildlife expert, a morning bushwalk, traditional bush lunch, and two sundowner experiences overlooking the boundless savannah. Accommodations are at Safari Plains Camp, a five-star tented haven featuring king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms, private viewing decks, and an infinity pool that seamlessly blends into the horizon.
Every meal is crafted by top chefs using locally sourced ingredients, and there’s time to indulge in daily high tea under acacia trees. Evening stargazing sessions with a resident astronomer bring the African night sky to life, revealing constellations that guided ancient travellers.
Itinerary Details
Day 1 – Arrival in Durban, private transfer to Safari Plains Camp. Relax by the pool, enjoy a welcome cocktail, and gather for an introductory wildlife talk by our expert.
Days 2 & 3 – Early morning game drive searching for the Big Five, followed by a late breakfast. Afternoon at leisure for spa treatments or high tea. Evening sundowner overlooking the plains.
Day 4 – Morning bushwalk with our reserve’s specialist, tracking smaller species and learning about local flora. Traditional bush lunch under a giant baobab tree. Afternoon game drive.
Day 5 – Full-day excursion to a private rhino conservation project. Participate in educational activities and support community initiatives. Return to camp for dinner under the stars.
Day 6 – Leisure morning. Optional hot-air balloon safari at dawn. Afternoon dedicated to bird-watching on the banks of a hidden freshwater spring.
Days 7 & 8 – Two consecutive game drives focusing on the elusive leopard and nocturnal wildlife. Evening stargazing session with our astronomer.
Day 9 – Cultural immersion visit to a local Thakadu village. Learn traditional crafts, share a home-cooked meal, and engage in storytelling with community elders.
Day 10 – Final sunrise game drive, farewell breakfast, and private transfer back to Durban for your departure flight.
Accommodations at Safari Plains Camp
Safari Plains Camp redefines luxury in the bush. Each tent combines contemporary design with rustic elegance, featuring:
- Private viewing deck with plunge pool and lounge area
- Spacious king-size bed draped in premium linens
- En-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor rain showers
- Mineral water station, Nespresso machine, and minibar
- Personal butler service on request
The central lodge offers a gourmet dining room, lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, a library stocked with wildlife guides, and a spa pavilion for massages overlooking the plains.
Explore the Waterberg Biosphere
The Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, declared a UNESCO World Biosphere in 2001, spans over 15,000 square kilometers of savannah, woodland, and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Its designation ensures sustainable tourism, wildlife conservation, and community development work in harmony. During your safari, you may spot more than 350 bird species, diverse plant life, and gentle giants like white rhino roaming freely across the plains.
Local conservation programs support anti-poaching units, environmental education for children, and habitat restoration projects. A portion of your safari fee directly benefits these vital initiatives, ensuring the region remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
Group Size, Flights, and Logistics
We limit group sizes to a maximum of 12 guests to ensure personalized attention, flexibility, and an intimate safari atmosphere. Private departures for couples or small parties are available on request.
Flights depart directly from Heathrow to King Shaka International Airport with premium airlines. We also coordinate departures from Manchester, Belfast, Newcastle, and Glasgow. All domestic transfers and ground transport are included, with comfortable 4×4 vehicles for game drives and luxury sedans for road transfers.
| Date | Price per Person | Seats Available |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd December 2025 | £3,273 | 6 left |
| 28th January 2026 | £3,326 | 4 left |
| 25th February 2026 | £3,416 | 4 left |
| 18th March 2026 | £3,416 | 4 left |
| 22nd April 2026 | £3,416 | 2 left |
| 15th July 2026 | £4,370 | 6 left |
| 21st October 2026 | £3,506 | 7 left |
| 4th November 2026 | £3,416 | 4 left |
| 11th November 2026 | £3,416 | Unlimited |
| 2nd December 2026 | £3,416 | Unlimited |
| 27th January 2027 | £3,492 | Unlimited |
| 24th February 2027 | £3,546 | Unlimited |
| 17th March 2027 | £3,546 | Unlimited |
| 21st April 2027 | £3,546 | Unlimited |
| 12th May 2027 | £3,546 | 8 left |
| 9th June 2027 | £3,555 | Unlimited |
| 14th July 2027 | £4,568 | Unlimited |
| 25th August 2027 | £3,708 | 6 left |
| 8th September 2027 | £3,555 | Unlimited |
| 29th September 2027 | £3,636 | Unlimited |
| 20th October 2027 | £3,636 | Unlimited |
| 3rd & 10th November 2027 | £3,555 | Unlimited |
| 1st December 2027 | £3,555 | Unlimited |
Deposit: £395 per person
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Safari Plains Camp unique?
Safari Plains Camp offers the rare combination of luxury and immersion. Each tent features private plunge pools overlooking the savannah, five-star service, and decor reflecting local artistry. Unlike lodge-style accommodations, the camp’s design integrates unobtrusively into the landscape, giving you uninterrupted views of wildlife from dawn to dusk.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis?
The Mabula Game Reserve is situated in a malaria-free zone, so malaria prophylaxis is not required. Standard travel vaccinations—such as tetanus, hepatitis A, and typhoid—are recommended. Our team will provide a detailed medical advisory sheet upon booking.
Can I customize the safari itinerary?
Absolutely. While we have designed an ideal ten-day experience, Louise and Scott will gladly tailor any aspect—whether you prefer more cultural visits, additional bushwalks, or private game drives. Custom private departures for families, honeymoons, and corporate groups are available on request.
How safe is the region for solo female travellers?
South Africa’s Waterberg region is regarded as one of the safest safari destinations for solo travellers, especially in a guided, escorted group environment. Our local partners and camp staff are vetted extensively, and all activities are conducted with stringent safety protocols.
What should I pack for my safari?
We recommend neutral-colored clothing, lightweight layers for variable temperatures, a wide-brimmed hat, sturdy walking shoes, and high-quality sunscreen. Binoculars and a good camera are essential. A detailed packing list will be sent after booking.
How do I book and secure my place?
To reserve your spot, a deposit of £395 per person is required. The balance becomes due 12 weeks before departure. Contact Louise or Scott directly at Hays Travel to check availability, secure your preferred dates, and arrange any additional services.
Book Your Safari Today
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the unspoiled beauty of South Africa’s safari plains with two of the industry’s most experienced travel experts. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family reunion, or group adventure, Louise and Scott will ensure every detail is meticulously handled.
Call us now on 01428 856020 or email [email protected] to start planning your journey. ATOL protected. ABTA bonded. Funds fully secure. Let the adventure of a lifetime begin.
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