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Esther Ruempol

Travelling and discovering new places is one of the things I love most in life, and the best part is to share these special places with our travellers. Our goal as a local specialist is to design your ultimate dream holiday, with a focus on sustainability and authentic experiences.

We like to make sure your trip has a minimum negative and maximum positive impact on the destination you visit. To this end, our accommodation portfolio consists of luxury lodges that have been verified and are known to have a sustainability mindset. They make a genuine effort to contribute positively to the nature, wildlife, and local communities in their direct environment.

I firmly believe that luxury travel and sustainability can co-exist and be integrated with your personal wishes to ensure you have the holiday of a lifetime!

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"South Africa is definitely my specialty. I have lived and worked here for the past 11 years and I have travelled extensively. I have been lucky enough to have the opportunity to have seen a lot of accommodations and visited many of the highlights as well as off the beaten track destinations.
In addition, I make regular visits to the countries surrounding South Africa and I have also gained a lot of knowledge on Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique."

How did you get involved in travel?

"When I was 18 and had finished high school, I was not sure what to study and so I embarked on a solo-trip to Australia for 8 months. This was the best thing I could have done and when I came back I decided to study tourism!
I have never looked back since then. Travelling is in my blood, I love discovering new places and especially to use those experiences to plan the perfect trip for my clients.
"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"That first trip to Australia is something I will never forget. Australia is an immensely large country and because I was there for 8 months and travelled around a lot, it gave me so many different experiences. There are many beautiful and different types of landscapes, activities from wine tasting an visiting the vineyards to driving a 4x4 and diving and snorkelling on one of the islands bay the East Coast.
It also taught me a lot of things about myself and about (solo) travelling in a new country you have never been to. Some of these things I can still use today when designing a tour for my clients. "

Top itineraries and travel advice
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Esther

Mother/daughter trip went flawlessly and the ...
South Africa | Sep 9 - Sep 16, 2024

Eloise
Eloise D.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Sep 23, 2024
Mother/daughter trip went flawlessly and the entire week near Kruger was top notch! Esther made great recommendations and was reassuring about all the lodging and transfers. It was wonderful to have her expertise from the planning stages to the completion of the trip. Our guide on the panoramic drive was very knowledgeable. (Maybe Titus) Sadly I have forgotten his name. The guides at Kruger Shalati (Lisa) and at Mjejane made sure we found lots of animals on every drive. The worst part about... Read more

Mother/daughter trip went flawlessly and the entire week near Kruger was top notch! Esther made great recommendations and was reassuring about all the lodging and transfers. It was wonderful to have her expertise from the planning stages to the completion of the trip. Our guide on the panoramic drive was very knowledgeable. (Maybe Titus) Sadly I have forgotten his name. The guides at Kruger Shalati (Lisa) and at Mjejane made sure we found lots of animals on every drive. The worst part about the trip was the condition of the road between Hootspreit and Kruger Shalati. I counted over 100 speed bumps. Minor detail. Thank you Esther, and the rest of
our support staff.

Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Sep 23, 2024

Thanks so much for your great review Eloise. Sorry to hear about the road conditions and the long drive, but I'm glad you enjoyed your trip overall!

A Great and Memorable Trip to Madagascar -- Thanks to Esther and Nick.
Madagascar | Aug 27 - Sep 5, 2024

Michael
Michael C.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Sep 15, 2024
Kudos to all involved in setting up and executing the trip plan for 8 days in Madagascar. My trip planner, Esther was outstanding. I had looked in a guide book to determine areas/things I wanted to see/do. Esther worked with "local boots on the ground" in Madagascar to determine what could be accomplished and set up a schedule. I was picked up from the airport in Madagascar's capitol by my local guide -- Nick. Nick spoke better English than me. He was a joy to spend time with. He... Read more

Kudos to all involved in setting up and executing the trip plan for 8 days in Madagascar. My trip planner, Esther was outstanding. I had looked in a guide book to determine areas/things I wanted to see/do. Esther worked with "local boots on the ground" in Madagascar to determine what could be accomplished and set up a schedule.

I was picked up from the airport in Madagascar's capitol by my local guide -- Nick. Nick spoke better English than me. He was a joy to spend time with. He was very knowledgable, easy going and knew what he was doing. It was a real pleasure to have Nick guide me around his country.

Things to keep in mind is that Madagascar is a relatively poor country with only a few paved (or sealed) roads. This can make traveling in the country a challenging and often slow journey -- but Nick had the appropriate vehicle and was an outstanding driver.

The bottom line -- Esther did a wonderful job in developing a plan to fit my needs -- Nick did a wonderful job in executing the plan and was a great guide and a pleasure to be around.

Mission Accomplished ---

Hotel Review
VOCO Hotel Rosebank
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Drive through Baobab Avenue
Drive through Baobab Avenue
Morondava
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park
Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park
Bekopaka
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nocturnal Visit of Kirindy Forest
Nocturnal Visit of Kirindy Forest
Madagascar
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Sep 15, 2024

Hi Michael, wow thanks so much for your wonderful review and for sharing your stunning pictures! We are thrilled to hear you had a great trip to Madagascar.

Highly Recommend!
South Africa | Sep 1 - Sep 5, 2024

C
Carlee N.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 12, 2024
Esther was great to us through the whole planning of our trip. She would answer questions quickly and effectively. She made the process smooth and easy. She would check in with us throughout our trip to make sure things were seamless. I cannot recommend her enough, thanks to her we had a great trip. Read more

Esther was great to us through the whole planning of our trip. She would answer questions quickly and effectively. She made the process smooth and easy. She would check in with us throughout our trip to make sure things were seamless. I cannot recommend her enough, thanks to her we had a great trip.

Hotel Review
Kruger Shalati Train on the bridge
Kruger National Park, Skukuza

Shalati was a beautiful resort with amazing services. We felt welcomed the whole time we were there. We had a great tour guide, Tebojo, who helped us through our safaris. We had a great waiter, Fanni, who was very helpful to us. We really enjoyed our stay at Shalati and cannot recommend it enough.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Sep 12, 2024

Thanks so much for the raving review Carlee!! So happy that you had a great trip :-)

Trip of a lifetime. HIGHLY Recommend
South Africa | Sep 1 - Sep 5, 2024

C
Cashe M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Sep 12, 2024
Esther was more than helpful from start to finish with helping us plan our trip months in advance and also being very accommodating while we were in South Africa so that we make sure we are on the right track. The Shalati Train on the Bridge was by far the most amazing all inclusive everyone in our group has been to. From the views you had to the top of the line food and drinks provided. We also had a kind knowledgeable game driver and waiter that the Shalati pairs your group with while we... Read more

Esther was more than helpful from start to finish with helping us plan our trip months in advance and also being very accommodating while we were in South Africa so that we make sure we are on the right track. The Shalati Train on the Bridge was by far the most amazing all inclusive everyone in our group has been to. From the views you had to the top of the line food and drinks provided. We also had a kind knowledgeable game driver and waiter that the Shalati pairs your group with while we were there. Would definitely stay again and recommend to anyone going to Kruger.

Hotel Reviews
Kruger Shalati Train on the bridge
Kruger National Park, Skukuza

If you are wanting a location with views, amazing food, and top tier customer service this is the place to book.

Authenticity & Character
Makes you feel like you really are part of the African Safari.
Location
You can view almost any wildlife you like right from your suite on the bridge.
Staff
Good not ask for a more accommodating staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Got our suite cleaned. TWICE a day. Was top tier.
City Lodge Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport
Authenticity & Character
Well kept hotel.
Location
Walking distance from the airport terminals.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Sep 12, 2024

So glad you had a good trip! Thanks so much for your amazing review and it was a great pleasure planning this with you :-)

Johannesburg
South Africa | Jul 29 - Jul 31, 2024

S
Sara C.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Aug 26, 2024
Esther was very helpful and very easy to liaise with. Great communication, before and during our travels. Read more

Esther was very helpful and very easy to liaise with. Great communication, before and during our travels.

Hotel Review
Radisson Red Rosebank
Johannesburg
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Soweto Cycling Tour
Soweto Cycling Tour
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Johannesburg Jazz Safari
Johannesburg Jazz Safari
Johannesburg
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Aug 28, 2024

Hi Sarah, thanks so much for your review and glad to hear you had a great trip!

Incredible trip all-around
Namibia | Jul 10 - Jul 24, 2024

G
Graham C.
Hong Kong SAR China | Reviewed on Jul 31, 2024
Incredible trip all-around. The attention to detail throughout our adventure was simply amazing. Friendly interactions every step of the trip, from the kimkim representative who planned our trip, to the local tour operator who organised the detailed logistics, to the staff at each of the hotels and activities we had planned. The entire trip went unbelievably smoothly without any missteps, and when we contacted the kimkim representative requesting a small change to our itinerary the response... Read more

Incredible trip all-around. The attention to detail throughout our adventure was simply amazing. Friendly interactions every step of the trip, from the kimkim representative who planned our trip, to the local tour operator who organised the detailed logistics, to the staff at each of the hotels and activities we had planned. The entire trip went unbelievably smoothly without any missteps, and when we contacted the kimkim representative requesting a small change to our itinerary the response was immediate and well executed. Importantly, we had told the kimkim representative that we were avid wildlife and landscape photographers, and she certainly didn't disappoint by organising a fabulous selection of sightseeing activities throughout our trip, including safaris, 4x4 excursions, and stunning wildlife encounters. Driving ourselves in a 4x4 adventure throughout Namibia has given us some memories that will last a lifetime !

Hotel Reviews
Dead Valley Lodge

Incredible lodges overlooking a vast desert with spectacular wildlife wandering by.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The staff were fun, friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mokuti Etosha Lodge
Etosha National Park

Thoroughly modern hotel with incredible facilities. Wished we could have stayed here a few more days to soak up the ambience.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right beside Etosha National Park so great for wildlife adventures.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Brandberg White Lady Lodge
Uis
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Windhoek Luxury Suites
Windhoek
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Okaukuejo Resort - Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bay View Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Okonjima Plains Camp
Otjiwarongo

Very large room with excellent furnishings and great bedside view of wildlife.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Every staff member was very helpful and friendly, especially on the safari when we went looking for leopards. They also seem very dedicated to the conservation of large cats in Africa.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kalahari Anib Lodge
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Gocheganas Nature Reserve

We contacted the hotel for an early check-in for one of our rooms and they happily complied.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Staff would pro-actively come over and let us know about nearby wildlife and birds.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Quiver Inn Guesthouse
Keetmanshoop
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Welcome to Namibia!
Welcome to Namibia!
Namibia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Delivery of your rental car
Delivery of your rental car
Windhoek
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sossusvlei Tour
Sossusvlei Tour
Sossusvlei
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walvis Bay & Sandwich Harbour  4x4 excursion - Morning Tour
Walvis Bay & Sandwich Harbour 4x4 excursion - Morning Tour
Namibia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
4x4 Huab River Excursion
4x4 Huab River Excursion
Namibia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Self-drive safari in Etosha National Park
Self-drive safari in Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park
Quality of Experience
Leopard Conservation Drive
Leopard Conservation Drive
Namibia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was knowledgeable, passionate and friendly !
Transport
Meet & Greet in Windhoek
Meet & Greet in Windhoek
Windhoek

Very friendly local guide, thanks !

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Afternoon Game Drive at Mokuti
Afternoon Game Drive at Mokuti
Namibia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wanted to give 6 stars. We told our guide that we wanted to see rhinos and lions during the daytime, and she actually managed it ! Also told her that we wanted to see several species of birds (rollers and hornbills) and she knew exactly where to go.
Transport
Welcome to GocheGanas
Welcome to GocheGanas
Windhoek
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
All the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome and comfortable.
Transport
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Jul 31, 2024

Hi Graham, so glad you guys had a great trip and that everything went well. And hank you so much for the fantastic review and compliments, we really appreciate it :-)

Wonderful Southern African experience
Namibia | Jul 5 - Jul 23, 2024

Bianca
Bianca C.
Peru | Reviewed on Jul 25, 2024
Wonderful Southern African experience. The trip was extremely well thought out. Esther listened to our expectations and came up with an itinerary that fit us as a couple. We could not have pulled this together without her. Throughout the trip she was attentive, flexible and available. I am so happy we could rely on her. It is hard to make choices and feel like you missed out on a lot, but this time we felt like we really got to experience and were able to see so much of what Southern Africa... Read more

Wonderful Southern African experience. The trip was extremely well thought out. Esther listened to our expectations and came up with an itinerary that fit us as a couple. We could not have pulled this together without her. Throughout the trip she was attentive, flexible and available. I am so happy we could rely on her. It is hard to make choices and feel like you missed out on a lot, but this time we felt like we really got to experience and were able to see so much of what Southern Africa has to offer!

Hotel Reviews
Shearwater Explorers Village
Victoria Falls

Very busy but with full amenities that a tourist seeking comfort would look for

Authenticity & Character
No real character, but not really what it seeks to offer. More of a comfort spot close to Vic Falls.
Location
Very close to everything.
Staff
Staff seemed a bit just focused on dealing with the business of tourists in and out
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Old House
Kasane

This is more of a stop over hotel, amenities are there but not great. However, nothing beats the boat tour in Chobe National Park. So so special.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Staff is busy taking care of busyness of tourists going in and out
Cleanliness & Comfort
Namushasha River Lodge
Kongola

Absolutely wonderful!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Xaro Lodge

Very beautiful hotel and overall proposition. More tailored to bird watchers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tsumkwe Country Lodge

It is a clean hotel that is good for a stopover. Has a beautiful manmade water hole where you can see elephants up close.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Onguma Bush Camp
Etosha National Park

Very beautiful game reserve.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Okaukuejo Resort - Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park

What really makes this destination is the OH SO SPECIAL WATER HOLE in the back. So much to see there. But other than that the amenities and rooms are ok.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very busy and slow
Cleanliness & Comfort
Twyfelfontein Country Lodge
Khorixas

Very nice lodge.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Atlantic Villa Boutique Guesthouse
Swakopmund
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sossusvlei Lodge

Very beautiful location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Am Weinberg Boutique Hotel
Windhoek
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Bay Hotel
Camps Bay, Cape Town
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Jul 25, 2024

Hi Bianca, thanks so much for your wonderful review and also for rating the individual hotels, this is so valuable for us and we will definitely use your feedback to continuously keep improving our tours.
I am so glad that you had a great trip in Southern Africa and that you got to experience many of the highlights :-)

Outstanding Travel Agent for South Africa Adv...
South Africa | Jul 5 - Jul 17, 2024

Ingenie
Ingenie D.
Curaçao | Reviewed on Jul 22, 2024
Outstanding Travel Agent for South Africa Adventure
We recently returned from an unforgettable trip to South Africa, meticulously planned by Esther and Lucy. From start to finish, our experience was nothing short of exceptional, and we owe it all to the expertise and dedication of our travel agent.
Personalized Itinerary and Seamless Planning From the moment we reached out to Esther, Eco travel -Boutique, we knew we were in good hands. They took the time to understand our preferences,... Read more

Outstanding Travel Agent for South Africa Adventure
We recently returned from an unforgettable trip to South Africa, meticulously planned by Esther and Lucy. From start to finish, our experience was nothing short of exceptional, and we owe it all to the expertise and dedication of our travel agent.

Personalized Itinerary and Seamless Planning

From the moment we reached out to Esther, Eco travel -Boutique, we knew we were in good hands. They took the time to understand our preferences, interests, and budget, crafting a personalized itinerary that included everything we hoped for and more. Their in-depth knowledge of South Africa was evident in the carefully selected destinations and activities.

Our safari experience was the highlight of our trip. Esther arranged for us to stay at Mhondoro Lodge, which provided luxurious accommodations and unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The safari guide was incredibly knowledgeable, ensuring we saw four out of the Big Five and many other incredible animals. Every game drive was a new adventure, and we felt safe and well-cared for throughout our stay.

Exploring the Wine Regions

The tour of South Africa's wine vineyards was another highlight. Our travel agent arranged a tour of Stellenbosch. Wine yard/ resort Babylon Toren was charming and perfectly situated, with many interesting activities on the Wine Yard including a Water buffalo tour.

Captivating Cape Town

Our time in Cape Town was equally impressive, Esther recommended and booked Tinswalo Atlantic with stunning views of Table Mountain . They also organized guided tours of the city, including visits to Robben Island, the Cape of Good Hope, and Boulders Beach to see the penguins. Each excursion was well-planned and provided deep insights into the history and beauty of Cape Town.

Exceptional Customer Service

Throughout our journey, Eco Travel -Boutique remained attentive and responsive. They provided us with detailed travel documents, including a comprehensive itinerary, contact information for local guides, and emergency contacts. When we had questions or needed assistance, they were just a phone call away, ensuring our trip went smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Our South Africa adventure was truly a trip of a lifetime, thanks to the exceptional planning and service provided by Esther. Their attention to detail, local expertise, and commitment to creating a memorable experience were evident in every aspect of our journey. We highly recommend Esther and Lucy, Eco Travel -Boutique to anyone looking to explore South Africa. They exceeded our expectations and made our dream vacation a reality.

Thank you, Esther and Lucy, for an unforgettable adventure!

Hotel Reviews
Tintswalo Atlantic
Cape Town

Review: Tintswalo Atlantic – An Unforgettable Experience Stunning Suites with Spectacular Views The suites at Tintswalo Atlantic are simply breathtaking. Each room is individually decorated with a unique theme inspired by various islands around the world, adding a touch of exotic elegance to the luxurious accommodations. Our suite featured panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, allowing us to wake up to the sight and sound of waves crashing against the shore. The room was spacious, impeccably clean, and equipped with all the amenities we could need, including a private deck where we enjoyed our morning coffee while soaking in the stunning scenery. Exceptional Service The staff at Tintswalo Atlantic went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect. From the warm welcome we received upon arrival to the personalized service throughout our stay, every interaction was marked by genuine hospitality and attention to detail. The team was incredibly attentive and helpful, always ready to assist with any request, whether it was arranging transportation, recommending local attractions, or accommodating dietary preferences. Their commitment to making us feel special truly enhanced our experience. Memorable Dining Experience The dining experience at Tintswalo Atlantic was a highlight of our stay. Each meal was a culinary delight, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and expertly crafted dishes. The breakfast spread was extensive and delicious, and the dinner was nothing short of gourmet. Dining on the deck with the ocean as our backdrop made every meal even more special. Little surprises, such as complimentary snacks and drinks, added to the overall sense of luxury and care. Conclusion Our stay at Tintswalo Atlantic was an extraordinary experience that exceeded all our expectations. The combination of luxurious accommodations, stunning natural beauty, exceptional service, and attention to detail made it a truly unforgettable getaway. Thank you, Tintswalo Atlantic, for an incredible stay!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Babylonstoren Wine Estate

Our recent stay at Babylonstoren was an incredible experience that exceeded all our expectations. Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, this exquisite farm offers the perfect blend of luxury, nature, and gastronomy. Here are some highlights from our memorable visit: Outstanding Accommodation The accommodations at Babylonstoren are truly remarkable. We stayed in one of the beautifully designed farm cottages, which offered a perfect mix of rustic charm and modern luxury. The rooms were spacious, impeccably clean, and equipped with all the amenities one could need. Waking up to the serene views of the gardens and vineyards was a delight. Exceptional Food and Wine Babylonstoren is a paradise for food and wine enthusiasts. The food was simply outstanding, with every meal showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown right on the farm. The breakfast spread was extensive and delicious, and the dinners at the farm's restaurant, Babel, were a culinary highlight. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The wine was equally impressive, with a fantastic selection of Babylonstoren's own wines to enjoy. Wine Tasting Experience The wine tasting at Babylonstoren was one of the best we’ve ever experienced. The knowledgeable staff guided us through a selection of their finest wines, providing insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each wine. The tasting room itself is gorgeous, with stunning views of the vineyards, making the experience even more enjoyable. It's also a great place to purchase some excellent wines to take home. Water Buffalo Tour One of the unique highlights of our stay was the water buffalo tour. This fascinating tour allowed us to learn about the farm's water buffalo herd and the process of making buffalo mozzarella. The tour was informative and fun, and we even got to sample some delicious mozzarella at the end. We highly recommend trying a "buffalocino" – a cappuccino made with buffalo milk – it’s a delightful twist on a classic drink! So Much to Do There is no shortage of activities at Babylonstoren. From exploring the extensive gardens and orchards to hiking in the surrounding mountains, there’s something for everyone. We also enjoyed relaxing at the farm’s spa and walking around. The farm shop is a great place to buy unique gifts, fresh produce, and, of course, excellent wine. Conclusion Our stay at Babylonstoren was a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and adventure. The exceptional accommodation, fantastic food and wine, unique activities, and beautiful surroundings made it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a food and wine lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a luxurious escape, Babylonstoren has something special to offer. Thank you, Babylonstoren, for an amazing stay!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mhondoro Lodge

From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable. Jakes (our guide) was exceptionally knowledgeable and friendly, providing us with fascinating insights into the wildlife and ensuring we had amazing sightings. The accommodation was luxurious and comfortable, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Every detail was thoughtfully considered, making our stay both relaxing and memorable. The food was a highlight in itself. Each meal was a culinary delight, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared by skilled chefs. The variety and quality were outstanding, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements. Overall, this resort lodge exceeded all our expectations.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
City Lodge Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport

Convenient location, convenient rooms, and nice service

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Verde

Convient location, friendly service

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Activities at Babylonstoren
Activities at Babylonstoren
Paarl
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins with the City Sightseeing Bus
Full Day Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins with the City Sightseeing Bus
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Allen was an great guide, very knowledgable with lots of experience
Transport
Comfortable car
Welcome to South Africa!
Welcome to South Africa!
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Restaurant at City Lodge O.R. Tambo
Restaurant at City Lodge O.R. Tambo
Johannesburg
Quality of Experience
Visit Table Mountain by Cable Car
Visit Table Mountain by Cable Car
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Learn about South African History on Robben Island
Learn about South African History on Robben Island
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
African Dinner Show & Drumming Experience
African Dinner Show & Drumming Experience
Cape Town
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Sep 25, 2024

Hi Ingenie, thank you so much for taking the time to do this extensive review. It is hugely appreciated and incredibly helpful. We will use your feedback to keep improving :-). We are so glad you had an amazing trip and it was a great pleasure planning it with you!

Kimkim turned a dream into reality
South Africa | Jun 18 - Jun 26, 2024

Cristi
Cristi K.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 03, 2024
I found kimkim by chance as I planned a trip to South Africa with my nephew. I am so glad I did — I cannot recommend kimkim enough and our local expert, Esther, was amazing. This was my first trip to Africa and though I have traveled widely in Europe and Asia, I needed a lens into South Africa and what was possible. The itinerary that Kagiso started and Esther perfected made for a the trip of a lifetime, and though that's a cliche, it's meant sincerely. Throughout the planning, the kimkim... Read more

I found kimkim by chance as I planned a trip to South Africa with my nephew. I am so glad I did — I cannot recommend kimkim enough and our local expert, Esther, was amazing. This was my first trip to Africa and though I have traveled widely in Europe and Asia, I needed a lens into South Africa and what was possible. The itinerary that Kagiso started and Esther perfected made for a the trip of a lifetime, and though that's a cliche, it's meant sincerely. Throughout the planning, the kimkim team was responsive and so helpful as we kept refining our itinerary. My nephew is going into the Air Force and we kept having to trim back on time to accommodate boot camp, and there was never any pushback. Just "here's how we can fix that." And though my hoped-for visit to Robben Island was canceled due to bad weather, Esther tried so hard to make that happen! On the trip, we got check-ins from Esther and our concierge Lucy and help each step of the way as things came up. And even after our trip ended, Esther indulged us by letting us send her photos while we were still over the moon about what we had just experienced. Specifically, I want to call out the itinerary which we could never have crafted on our own. Umkumbe Bush Lodge was a gem...small and perfect for us. And though I initially thought "Four days of safari! What!" that was the right amount of time. I would never have booked that correctly on my own or found Umkumbe. We started our trip in Cape Town and Esther wisely suggested we stay in Camps Bay...a perfect spot to launch our tours of the city. We then went to Umkumbe which was a safari oasis. And yes, we saw the famous Sabi Sands leopards. And Johannesburg was also magic. Esther sent us to the Mandela Foundation and the bike ride we took in Soweto was an unparalleled window into history. We are in awe of what we did and saw and that's truly a credit to kimkim and Esther.

Hotel Review
VOCO Hotel Rosebank

A beautiful and luxurious hotel...the perfect spot after safari. The staff was incredibly warm and helpful and the food at Proud Mary was delicious. The breakfast was amazing. And there's shopping nearby if you need to grab a few more souvenirs. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Jul 03, 2024

Wow Cristi, what an amazing review, thank you so much. We are so happy you and Dominic had a great time in South Africa. Hope to see you again some time!

Amazing time in South Africa
South Africa | Jun 15 - Jun 23, 2024

N
Nicole D.
Canada | Reviewed on Jun 26, 2024

We had a wonderful time at Mhondoro in South Africa. The place was outstanding and Esther was fantastic to work with. Will definitely be doing more safaris in the near future!

Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Jun 26, 2024

Hi Nicole, thank you so much, that's wonderful to hear. Africa hopes to see you again!