Welcome, travelers to Africa!

It is October, the prettiest month, as one our South African poets once said. This month we take you to all things wild near the world-famous Kruger National Park in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Nokana Safari Camp is not a destination – it's an experience! Of the 38 tripadvisor reviews of Mopaya/Nokana Safaris Lodge, NONE rate the camps anything but excellent. And after having spent three days here I know why.

French owner Michel has had great success with the French tourist market over the past decade or so since he started Mopaya and he has now decided to widen the market to include the English-speaking world with Nokana. Acting himself as guide during his extensive excursions here – a 13-hour game drive inside the Kruger Park for instance – he will unveil the mysteries of the bush to you in a way no one else can. But take your energy pills because you are in for a wild ride!

In case you have limited time, The Lion Park in the vicinity of Johannesburg in South Africa offers a closer alternative in terms of interacting with the king of beasts. Voted as one of the top 100 tourist destinations by Newsweek magazine, The Lion Park is an eco-tourism destination that focuses on the well-being and regeneration of the various species, in particular the endangered wild dog, the rare White lion and cheetah. It is neither a game reserve nor a zoo, but instead a breeding ground and sanctuary for important species. The Lion Park is a fondly regarded piece of Johannesburg's history and one of its best-known attractions.

Staying in the province of Gauteng, we visit Pretoria, a world-class, vibrant city, nestling in surrounding hills and devoid of any fog or pollution due to the lack of industrial plants nearby. During October the Jacaranda trees transform the city into a magical light purple cloud. It has arguably the best weather in the country and during the summer, you have the place virtually to yourself as the masses make their way to Cape Town.

And speaking of Cape Town, we uncovered a gem of a hotel in Sea Point called The Clarendon. Well, actually The Clarendon has two properties, each as beautiful and sophisticated as the other. One is a 4-star property designed for families with a wonderfully homely atmosphere and the other is a 5-star pinnacle of understated sophistication and class.

Enjoy this issue of Africa Travel and whatever you do in South Africa this month, we welcome you with open arms!

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Bon voyage!

Jo Kromberg, Editor