There are some givens when you come on an African safari with Stretch Ferreira: there will be magical encounters with wildlife that you didn’t believe was possible; the phenomenal colours and light of Mana Pools that you can’t see anywhere else, there will be many miles of walking and evenings filled with banter and campfire stories. However, what is not a given is the structure of each day. This is dependent on what each guest would like to do on the day as well as the weather and the wildlife. Each day is a unique adventure!
Rise & Shine
The camp wakes early to the sounds of drums and smell of coffee brewing. There is no time to waste when you are on a safari of a lifetime! Tea and coffee, rusks and porridge are served on the river bank to start the day.
Guys, Let’s Get Serious
Stretch’s standard greeting sets the day into motion, and guests assemble in the game vehicles and off out at first light looking for tracks. Stretch leads the walks by finding and following tracks on an exciting walk through the bush. Each and every day is a different walk in a different area.
Bush Tea
Mid-morning Stretch stops following animal tracks, and starts tracking down some delicious treats instead! Found in a different “bush” tea room every day, a table of assorted pastries, cakes and toasties with fresh coffee and tea are served by a member of the Stretch Safaris team.
Carry on the Mission
Never one to miss a photographic opportunity, after tea, there is some more walking with Stretch to enjoy all the magic that Mana Pools offers.
Lunch is Served
Back at camp, a delicious lunch is served overlooking a spectacular view of the Zambezi River. Much of the produce is from Stretch’s own organically inspired market garden aptly named “Organically Stretched”. You are in for a treat – our chefs are renowned for their beautifully freshly baked bread!
Siestas
Guests can then either have well earned afternoon siesta or just sit in the lounge area watching the hippos in the river, or the elephants coming to visit!
Afternoon Adventures
Drums signal cake being served, before guests set off on an afternoon game drive – usually a gentle one. Enjoy taking incredible photographs as you watch an iconic elephant bull stand on his back legs to feed on acacia, or watch a pack of wild dogs resting after a successful hunt. Canoeing is also available.
Sundowners at Sunset
Each afternoon ends at a spectacular sunset spot on the Zambezi River for sundowners – where gin & tonics and local beers have never tasted quite so good!
Dinner under Stars
Then it’s time to head back to camp at last light, sometimes guests are lucky and spot nocturnal birds or animals. A 3-course dinner is under the stars on the edge of the Zambezi River, in a lovely dining area around one large table where wine and tales of the day and stories flow.