Victoria Falls, Cape Town; Beck Safari May 2026
07.06.2026
18:30 Tue, 12 May, 2026 OR Tambo International Airport [JNB]
Walk through the glass sliding doors into the Arrivals Hall where you will be met by Des Blackhurst, your Ntaba Guide, who will be holding a name board. Des will walk with you to the City Lodge O.R. Tambo Hotel which is inside conveniently located next to the Airport
Wednesday Scheduled Flight: 10:00 - 11:45Travel from OR Tambo International Airport [JNB] to Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA]Transfer: 11:45Travel from Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA] to Palm River hotel check -inPalm River Hotel
After an early breakfast we both were up 130 due to the time change. We went down to breakfast at 4 am checked out and met Des at 6 30 am in the Hotel lobby. Des will walk with you to Terminal B in the Airport to check in for Airlink Flight 4Z 492 departing at 10:00 am for Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. This is an international flight, so check-in time is 3 hours prior to departure. Be sure to have your $30.00 in cash to pay for your single-entry Zimbabwe visa when you arrive at the Victoria Falls Airport at 11:45 am. In Victoria Falls, go through passport control, collect your luggage and proceed through customs. Be met at the Airport by a Wild Horizons representative holding a name board and transferred to The Palm River Hotel We dropped our bags and headed to Victoria Falls
Picture of falls as we flew over
We came back to Africa because Michele added the falls to the trip. When traveling so far might as well see every thing you can.
The water was high so it made for a spectacular view
One of the original natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls is breathtaking and not suprisingly a World Heritage Site. Known locally as ‘The Smoke that Thunders’ this spectacle is accessible from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. Unlike other waterfalls, Victoria Falls has a natural catwalk across from the falls which provides spectacular viewing
Palm River hotel such a tranquil place on the edge of Zambezi river. We would see hippos and elephants walk by when eating in boma. And warthogs
We checked into our Deluxe Room for 2 nights. At 4:50 pm, be transferred to the Zambezi River Jetty for an unforgettable luxury Sunset Dinner Cruise. Enjoy the abundant wildlife and the beautiful sunset scenes. A three-course meal and drinks are served along the way.Return to the Lodge around 8:30 pm. We saw hippocampus and a crocodile.
Cafe
Perched on the rim of the Batoka Gorge, the Wild Horizons Lookout Café is a fusion of spectacular views and exquisite food. The African Contemporary styled restaurant is designed to emphasize its unique panoramic view of the Victoria Falls Bridge and Batoka Gorges, which form part of the spectacular backdrop.
Boma restaurant
The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show is a “must do” Victoria Falls dining and entertainment experience, specializing in traditional African food, drumming and dancing. The food is cooked and served in the style and quantity of a lavish feast, including irresistible desserts.and welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere in which the tantalizing aromas of local dishes and game meat on the braai (barbecue) fill the restaurant, which is partially open to the star-filled African sky.Your meal begins with a mouth-watering platter of starters whilst the buffet includes soup from the campfire, a range of salads, game meat cooked on a braai (barbecue), followed by desserts. Vegetarian options are also available, as well as local dishes such as peanut butter spinach
You can also look forward to outstanding performances by traditional singers and dancers, and enjoy an energizing interactive drumming show. A face painter, storyteller, hair braider and fortune teller also form part of this festive evening.
Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary
and Orphanage has been a safe-haven to a myriad of orphaned and injured elephants since its conception in 1992. Whilst hand rearing these orphans we have come to understand that the best way to appreciate these magnificent creatures is to watch them living wildly and freely.The Elephant Encounter will give guests the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa, in a pristine environment overflowing with raw natural beauty.Guests will venture out into the bush to spend time with the elephant and the sight of the gentle grey mammals up close and personal will be imprinted on guests minds long after they have returned home. Witness the special relationship our keepers share with the elephants and become a part of it. You will have the opportunity to take photographs with the elephants. Marvel at their size and watch them behaving normally; browsing and interacting with one another.
Unable to describe the small group of 11 who got to experience the up and close encounter with elephants. It depends on their demeanor of day if allow you to touch and feed them. It was intimidating but exhilarating at same time . Their skin was so thick and hairy . One of my best experiences with hands on encounters that made it extraordinary!
Then they fed us a full breakfast overlooking banks of Masuwe river
Friday
River HotelTransfer: 10:30Travel from Palm River Hotel to Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA]Scheduled Flight: 13:25 - 16:30Travel from Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA] to Cape Town International Airport [CPT]Transfer: 16:30Travel from Cape Town International Airport [CPT] to Victoria & Alfred HotelCheck-inVictoria & Alfred HotelV&A 
Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town
The hotel is right on waterfront and location is perfect to walk to take a stroll in evenings.
Glimpse of table mountain from plane
Table Mountain is the most iconic landmark of South Africa. Aside from being the country’s most photographed attraction and the perfect place to take photos of the landscape of Cape Town
Checked into hotel Victoria and Alford and wewrre glad to see had updated the older rooms from four years ago. It was a Friday night and the waterfront area was busy. We decided to eat at hotel and had best Waggu burger and fish and chips and local beer. We walked the boardwalk on this beautiful night.
Saturday May 16
We left hotel at 800 and it was a sunny and clear day. We queued in line to ride aerial cableway It holds 65 person and rotates around offering 360 degree view of city with panoramic view
Bordering the Groot Constantia Vineyards, Groot Constantia Cellar is situated in the heart of the Constantia Valley and is perfectly positioned to experience Constantia’s Winelands. It offers direct access to the Groot Constantia Vineyards where guests can go for leisurely walks or even stroll up to the Groot Constantia farm for a cellar tour, wine tasting or dine at one of the fine restaurants.We enjoyed the wine tasting . We had a tasty salad, fish hake with cream sauce, potato and vegetables . Dessert was bread pudding with carmal sauce. I enjoyed a tarimasu cocktail
With its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, onsite museum and fabulous restaurants, it’s not hard to understand why Groot Constantia is one of the most visited wine estates in the country. Its distinguished history dates back to 1685, and includes the supply of wines in early 19th century to Napoleon Bonaparte, said to have had a penchant for the honeyed nuances of the farm’s Vin de Constance. Open for tastings seven days a week, including most public holidays.
Sun
Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Situated on the Atlantic Coast, at the southwestern tip of South Africa, it is one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak. The drive offers stunning 180-degree views with many areas along the route where visitors can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic.
Cape Point is a spectacular sight, covered in endemic fynbos and home to breathtaking bays, beaches and rolling green hills and valleys, just 60km outside of Cape Town. Cape Point falls within the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world – it is home to nearly 20% of Africa’s flora. Cape Point is open daily and is a must-see.
The Cape Point Lighthouse, built in the early 20th century, is a striking landmark perched atop the rugged cliffs of Cape Point in Cape Town. With its white tower rising against the dramatic backdrop of the ocean, it serves as a beacon of safety for seafarers navigating the treacherous waters. The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the pristine coastline, providing a sense of awe-inspiring serenity. Its historical significance and picturesque setting make it a must-visit destination, allowing visitors to experience the captivating beauty of Cape Point from a unique vantage point.
Nestled in Simon’s Town along South Africa’s scenic Cape Peninsula, Boulders Beach is renowned for its rare colony of endangered African Penguins, one of the few land-based colonies in the world. This sheltered cove, framed by massive granite boulders, offers pristine beaches and safe swimming conditions ideal for families. Visitors can stroll along boardwalks designed to protect the penguins while providing close-up views of their charming antics.
Beyond penguin watching, guests can enjoy picnics, explore nearby restaurants, and soak in the natural beauty of this protected marine
we had a wonderful seafood lunch and local beer 
In 4 years the penguin population was drastically reduced
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is a botanical paradise nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. Spanning over 36 hectares, it showcases a stunning array of indigenous plants, including a vast collection of fynbos, cycads, and proteas. Visitors can explore its well-maintained pathways, which lead to various themed gardens, including a fragrance garden and a medicinal garden. Kirstenbosch is not only a botanical wonderland but also a hub for cultural events and live music concerts, offering a unique blend of nature and entertainment in a truly breathtaking setting.
It was a beautiful sunny day to explore. We missed this 4 years ago because of rain.
Good bye Capetown
We left Cape Town at 8 to travel to Cape Town Airport 1015-1245 to Hoedspruit airport Two transport vans to Becks Safari Lodge
We left on our first game drive and saw lion sleeping and heard of elephants along the river
Our tracker would give us a knock on door at 530 we met in lobby to leave at 6 am. Today would be an exciting day
Breakfast when we got back from morning safari
Afternoon Safari
lion
Giraffe 
tracking 
sundowner, beer, wine, jerky dried fruit and chips and of course bush stop if needed
by
May 20 th oh what a day! They told us to wear closed shoes whatever for who would of thought we would be walking with three cheetahs
Where ever Zebras there usually are giaraffs too
Hyenas
Ourtracker LUDWIG came back and said he found the cheetahs along way in the bush. We were told to go single file. Oh my I can’t believe we are doing this! My heart was racing. It was exhilarating watching the beautiful creatures
When we got back Jim was going on a bush walk with Dan and Dale from our jeep and Arelene and Cheryl and Scott. They were with BET AND they saw tracks,insects,birds bush. After loaded up saw elephants herd. Two little elephants playing. Had to leave when one big elephant opened ears and became irate so they t took off.Saw two snakes fighting on road.last saw leopard walking on road. He came back so excited about his experience.
I spent the morning on porch enjoying the river and view
I had a African board massage by Cate it was 90 minutes of pure relaxation.
Tonight the highlight of safari was tracking the leopard and the rare occurrence of seeing the two cubs. We think the mother was taking them to a kill is why she had them out. So fun to see them play.
Black back jackal 
Also beautiful sunset
Beck lodge had a scrumptious boma dinner tonight. The venison stew and impala was outstanding
MAY 21 Jim was excited to finally be traveling on his birthday. I am lucky to be in St John for mine each year
Nothing like starting your birthday with a Safari! We we would see three giraffe playing, Hippopogamus with their eyes peeking out of water, black hackles
Ginny
Came back to lodge with whole crew out on porch singing happy birthday to JIM
Lunch I had to try Ostrich it was so tender
afternoon game drive
Tonight they surprised us with a bar set up along river for our sundowner and had gin drinks
Supper was always beautiful set up with charger plates palette cleanser
Friday Jan 22 WHAT would we see today
The morning would be cool and we would snuggle in with blankets in Safari jeep
Saw 4 rhinoceros right away
We started tracking lion who led us back to hidden Nalan kill from night before. We got a little too close for my comfort here.
Cheetahs were sighted again so we walked in
Last evening Safari
Saw cape buffalo, 
Caterpillars lined up
Leopard turtle
sundowner at rocks
Shots for last night Amulua and cream De ment (Boca Boca)
Saturday last safari and long travel day. A few wanted to skip but decided not to. First saw rhino down by river and ended up tracking a lion Finding her and watching her roar and call out and 10 min later a large male lion would come running past us to find her. What an ending to the safari.
Tracking female lion
We packed up and had to be out of our room at 11.
The host husband and wife amazing forBecks
Back to small airport Hoedspruit short layover back to Johannesburg had long layover but able to shop. Thanks to guys who watched luggage while wives shopped!
Most of thanks to Michele for the best trip. Perfect!
Posted by Cindygad 20:45 Archived in South Africa
