News > Footprints > The ultimate bush and beach incentive

		The ultimate bush and beach incentive
	– Destination Innovation

In early May, Green Route hosted an incentive trip for a small group on behalf of an international mobile telecommunications provider. The trip formed part of the corporate client’s reward and recognition programme. The group were able to experience an exciting, idyllic and adventurous six days in Africa, with an itinerary that incorporated elements of sun, sea and safari.

Travelling to Africa from all parts of the world required an overnight rest stop in Johannesburg. After being met by Green Route staff at OR Tambo International Airport, the guests were spirited away to the 5 star D’oreale Grande Hotel (of Peermont Hotel Group fame). Situated mere minutes from the airport, this luxurious hotel has 196 rooms and forms part of the amazing Emperors Palace Casino, Hotel and Convention complex.

Two optional activities were laid on for early arrivals, enabling them to experience the history, culture and shopping delights of Jozi. Following sundowner cocktails on the pool deck, a sumptuous buffet dinner awaited the group in Aurelia’s restaurant, after which guests could relax in the lounge/bar or venture forth to the casino to try their luck.

With the onset of the new day, the group boarded a two hour charter flight to Vilanculos Airport in Mozambique. This was followed by a 10 minute hop across the water to Bazaruto Island, a premier scuba diving destination and home to the Indigo Bay 5 star luxury resort.

Designed in a thatched style traditional to Mozambique, the resort comprises 30 beach chalets and 12 bay view villas, an executive suite and presidential villa. The hotel facilities include an 80-seater conference room, three restaurants and two bar lounges.

A stunning sunset dhow cruise was followed by a delectable seafood dinner on the Beach Deck. After dinner, stargazing was also an option before retiring to bed to be lulled to sleep by the softly lapping waves.

Day two on the island was reserved for leisure activities and snorkelling, fishing, diving and other land and water sports were popular choices. For those less active, a choice of spa treatments or a trip to Paradise Island were on offer. A formal dinner at Club Naval that evening was set to the lilting sounds of a children’s choir from the local island community.

After an early breakfast, the group waved goodbye to the beach as they prepared for their next destination – Londolozi Game Reserve. Following charter flight journeys of just over two and a half hours, the Londolozi airstrip came into view. After a five minute drive to the camps, a warm greeting from the staff and an African style buffet lunch were eagerly received by the group.

Londolozi is steeped in local history and consists of four camps located adjacent to each other on the river. Collectively, the camps comprise a variety of chalets and suites totalling 27 in all.

On the group’s first night in the wild, their exciting introduction to the bush on an evening game drive culminated in a hearty meal in the Varty Camp Boma. Entertainment was provided by local marimba musicians.

Apart from the early morning and late afternoon game drives, guests were also given the opportunity to engage in activities such as yoga, massage, gym, trail running, animal tracking or enjoying leisure time by the pool. Visits to the Shangaan cultural village and learning centre as well as to local communities were also encouraged. The day was rounded off with a Group dinner on the Varty Camp Deck accompanied by the Londolozi choir.

The final day dawned with a game drive and delicious farewell brunch before the journey homewards commenced. Charter flights directly into Johannesburg allowed the group to catch their international onward flights and another successful programme was put to bed.

Although the group itinerary was somewhat complex due to the number of international charter flights involved, with Green Route staff on hand at every turn to ensure the smooth running of the programme, success was guaranteed. The group thoroughly enjoyed their stay and rated the amazing mix of bush and beach elements as their ultimate incentive experience!

For your own unique group experience, please contact us at info@greenroute.co.za.