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In recent years, there has been a shift towards the social model of disability, recognizing that societal and environmental factors, not individual impairments, create disabilities. This shift has led to the growth of the safari industry for people with mobility impairments. At Mahlatini, our travel experts are well-versed in personalizing the perfect African safari experience, including special needs travel and holiday for disabled individuals. For travelers with health conditions or mobility challenges, an African safari is not just a dream; it's an attainable reality, here’s a look at five of our mobility friendly stays.
1. MalaMala Main Lodge, Greater Kruger, South Africa
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at MalaMala in the Greater Kruger region. The Malalala Main Lodge, nestled in Sabi Sands, offers an exceptional wildlife viewing experience.
MalaMala is dedicated to inclusivity and proudly offers a universally accessible suite that adheres to the guidelines of the Disabled People's Information Service of South Africa and international standards. This suite features a universally accessible bathroom with a wheel-in shower, paying attention to the smallest details such as the absence of loose rugs or carpets. It boasts a ramped entrance, 24-hour climate control, and an elevated deck overlooking the enchanting bush. MalaMala's game drives are conducted in a well-equipped Land Rover that caters to a variety of needs, ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests.
Great for: Big 5 game viewing, night drives, birdwatching, photography safari, star gazing.
2. Sossusvlei Lodge, Sossuvlei & Namib Desert, Namibia
Located within the planet's most ancient desert, Sossusvlei Lodge in Namibia is an absolute must-visit destination. From exquisite gourmet dinners on the dunes to encounters with oryx, springbok, jackal, and hyenas, this lodge exemplifies the epitome of desert luxury.
For guests with mobility challenges and wheelchair users, the lodge offers two thoughtfully designed Superior Rooms. These accommodations feature step-free access, wider doorways, and bathroom and shower facilities equipped with convenient handles, designed with disabled travel in mind.
Great for: Black rhino sightings, hot air balloon safari, lunar-like landscapes, rich indigenous culture experiences, star gazing.
3. The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town, South Africa
Perched amid the mountain range with breathtaking Atlantic Ocean vistas, the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa offers a lavish coastal retreat, mere moments from the vibrant heart of Cape Town's city center.
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is deeply committed to ensuring that guests with disabilities can fully and equally relish the hotel's amenities and accommodations. Their dedication to accessibility encompasses features like 32-inch clear entryways for rooms and bathrooms, showers equipped with seating, low-profile beds, the flexibility to remove furniture in accessible rooms upon request, roll-in showers, and conveniently situated low-light switches. The hotel is devoted to fostering an inclusive environment where all guests can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free stay. Additionally, the hotel provides numerous amenities, including priority parking, braille elevators, and wider elevator spaces.
Great for: Seasonal whale watching, year-round penguin watching, helicopter flights, food experiences, wine route, city sights, blue flag beaches, cultural & historical excursions.
4. Angama Mara, Maasai Mara, Kenya
Situated atop the Great Rift Valley in Africa, with a commanding view of the renowned Maasai Mara, Angama Mara offers an ideal setting to unwind and savor the world unfolding before you. The public areas and deck are generously proportioned and designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Patty's Tent is spacious enough for effortless wheelchair navigation, with the most convenient vehicle drop-off spot between the tent and communal guest areas. While on game drives, guests are skillfully assisted into the passenger seat of the safari vehicle, ensuring an exceptional position for wildlife viewing right alongside the guide.
Great for: Wildebeest migration, single country beach & safari destination, hot air balloon safari, big cat viewing, ‘Out of Africa’ film locations.
5. Shumbalala Game Lodge, Greater Kruger, South Africa
At the core of the exclusive Big 5 Thornybush Reserve, right along the Monwana River, Shumbalala Game Lodge presents opulent, roomy accommodations, a warm and accommodating staff, and an extraordinary natural setting. Shumbalala extends its welcoming embrace to guests with wheelchair accessibility, featuring open-plan communal spaces and broad doorways. The lodge is dedicated to meeting every guest's desires and requirements, endeavoring to make each visitor feel like part of the family.
Great for: Big 5 game viewing, night drives, birdwatching, photography safari, star gazing.
Kempinski Seychelles Resort, Seychelles
On the southwest coast of Mahé island lies Kempinski Seychelles, a tropical beachfront retreat. The 5-star resort is situated in a bay protected by an offshore reef, meaning the pristine white beach is protected from stronger winds and waves. The resort is a disabled-friendly environment, having recently introduced a comfortable beach wheelchair, which offers easy access to the ocean. The resort has also incorporated pathways designed for easy movement for physically challenged guests.
Great for: The Kempinski Spa, where some treatments apply hot coconuts (instead of applying hot stones).
