Roccco

You would have to be crazy to pass this one up if you are coming to Kruger/Sabi Sand in the next year. It is for 4 nights at The Royal Malewane, which is arguably second only to Singita. I wish this package were advertised a month sooner and I would be there right now instead at Djuma Vuyatela, which I must say I am very unimpressed with.

Because this is the initial offering of this package, one may be able to get at a very good price. Even in low season, Royal Malewane goes for $1,000 USD per night ($500 per person per night). However, I am guessing that this package will likely go for less than $2,000 total for the four nights (less than $250 per person per night).

If interested go to www.luxurylink.com
and then click on the "Africa and Asia" icon. This auction ends on June 24th and anything less than $2,500 will be a bargain and will be good until May 31, 2004.

Personally, I need a year off from South Africa. The world is a big place and there are still many places I have not yet been.

I have cut and paste the info below:

Situated in a private reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park in the northeast corner of South Africa, Royal Malewane opened at the turn of the millennium as an exquisite tribute to the golden age of safari travel. A maximum of 20 guests are accommodated in 6 private, free-standing suites adorned with rich wood terraces, thatched gazebos and spillway pools and in the ultra-luxurious Royal and Malewane Suites. Elevated walkways link the suites to the main colonial-style camp. Furnished with rich antiques and Persian carpets, the camp features a new fitness center and spa. Treatments can also be enjoyed in a sala completely surrounded by nature.


Amid the exotic wilds of South Africa's "Big Five" territory...

Whether you want to arrive by private jet or enjoy a pre-packed breakfast in the bush, your every desire here is happily catered to. You will experience some of the finest game viewing on the continent, since the Reserve is home to the "Big Five" -- lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. From explorations on foot to drives under the stars, outings are tailored to your individual wishes. To further enhance your magnificent experience, you will be accompanied by an expert ranger and tracker.

Wilderness wonders and material luxuries unite in this magnificent escape for two, including:

4 nights in a luxurious Safari Lodge Private Suite
Your freestanding suite features rich wood terrace deck, thatched gazebo and private spillway pool opening onto the magnificent surrounding reserve

All meals and local beverages for two each day
Meals are served in the lodge?s dining area with silver and crystal service at dinner or under the stars in the boma, or may be served in the privacy of your suite

Daily afternoon tea
Take a break from your game drives and enjoy the sumptuous traditional service

All regularly scheduled game drives accompanied by an expert ranger and tracker during your stay
Experience the majesty and wonder of the private reserve adjacent to the Kruger National Park and the abundant natural big game, including the Big Five. You may customize your game viewing to excursions by Land Rover or on foot



This package may be taken anytime betwee June 1, 2003 and May 31, 2004, subject to availability at time of booking. Blackout dates may apply.


The retail value of this package is: $5008.00* The current highest bid: $1575.00
This auction began: June 19, 2003 Bid Increment: $25.00
This auction closes: June 24, 09:30:00 AMPST The Minimum Bid is Now: $1600

*Rates above are quoted in U.S. dollars and are for two people sharing a private suite. Price does not include airfare or customary staff gratuities.
Price does not include auction handling fee of $15.