Maserati has raised the curtain on the world premiere of the new MCPURA super sports car, an expression of the purest essence of energy and performance the Trident way. The new masterpiece, 100% made in Italy, was unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025, the international event that every year celebrates the most iconic cars and the most extraordinary performances in the evocative setting of the South Downs National Park, West Sussex.

An evolution of the MC20 Halo Car – which in 2020 launched a new era for the brand – the new MCPURA takes up its spirit and amplifies it to its most intense and refined form. The work has focused on the exterior design, materials and interior finishes, but the core remains the same: the powerful and unmistakable 630-CV V6 Nettuno engine, a symbol of Maserati’s passion for performance. After all, MCPURA encompasses everything that makes the Maserati driving experience unique, i.e. the ability to connect without filters with the driver, transmitting the most extreme elegance, exhilarating driving performance and timeless artisanship.

Pure elegance, character and emotion. The name itself reveals the essence of a model designed to embody, in its most concentrated form, the most authentic values of the Trident. It is no coincidence that an iconic formula was chosen for the launch campaign: E = MCPURA. Powerful hyperbole, inspired by Einstein’s theory of relativity, which celebrates an energy with the capacity to multiply until it becomes a pure expression of excellence.

Santo Ficili, Maserati COO, stated: “With MCPURA, Maserati is once again regaining its rightful place: at the top and in its stomping ground. Both versions – coupé and Cielo – are created at our historic Modena facility, where the heart of the Trident has been beating for almost 90 years. This is where the entire MCPURA production process takes place: we produce the Nettuno engine, assemble each component and carry out the most exclusive customisation at the Maserati Officine Fuoriserie. Modena is not just our headquarters; it forms part of our identity. We are the oldest automotive marque in the Motor Valley, an area we have helped to build and that we continue to represent around the world. From there, we proudly tell the story of Italian excellence and luxury”.

At Goodwood, the new super sports car was presented in the sophisticated Ai Aqua Rainbow body colour – designed as part of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme, in a matte version for the coupé and in gloss for the MCPURA Cielo – which, in its very name, is reminiscent of light in movement. It is a blue that changes in the sun, producing a rainbow effect. It is inspired by the prism: breaking down white light, then capturing all its facets and creating a unique and pure colour. The Trident on the grille and the C-pillar, and the insignia on both sides of the car are in a magenta colour with blue mica, making the combination even more elegant. The logo in the same colour is also repeated in the middle of the rims, with a specific burnished diamond-cut finish. In contrast to the respective bodies, the details are in gloss on the coupé and matte on the convertible. Finally, the standout features in both cars are the seats in Alcantara Ice, laser-etched to bring out the Trident with brand-new visuals. The resulting image is both futuristic and sporty with a double-sided backing, an iridescent red with blue and an iridescent blue with red, which enhances the forms and takes up the same shades of the exterior details. The “lasered” processing is used to convey three-dimensionality, creating a combination of the sporty elegance of Alcantara.

The colour palette available for the MCPURA is eye-catching and evocative; it consists of a selection of different body colours specially designed for the new super sports car, with a strong reference to both the Italian spirit and Maserati’s iconic heritage. Three innovations stand out: the brand-new Devil Orange, a combination of vibrant energy and audacity; and the elegant dual-layer metallic Verde Royale and Night Interaction, two sophisticated and luxurious shades to emphasise the role of the MCPURA as the Maserati brand’s new standard-bearer, the epitome of Italian luxury around the world.

The colour palette has therefore been further expanded, partly thanks to the multiple possibilities for customisation offered by Maserati Fuoriserie programme, including over thirty body colours, whether solid, metallic, three-layer, four-layer or matte.

Available immediately in coupé and convertible versions, the new MCPURA has four distinctive features: the carbon-fibre body; the Maserati-patented V6 Nettuno engine; the “Butterfly” doors; and the retractable glass roof, for the convertible version (MCPURA Cielo). Specifically, the carbon-fibre monocoque pairs rigidity and lightness, so much so that the total weight comes in at under 1,500 kg. Thanks to its power output of 630 CV, it comes out best in class in weight/power ratio: 2.33 kg/CV.

MCPURA can also count on the power of the now-iconic V6 Nettuno engine, the result of a true technological revolution, covered by international patents and 100% made at Maserati, which saw the light together with the MC20. Specifically, the 3.0-litre twin-turbo delivers 630 CV at 7500 rpm and 720 Nm of torque from 3000 rpm. The power-to-weight ratio is 210 CV/litre. This engine’s secret lies in the innovative pre-chamber combustion system featuring twin spark plugs. This technology is derived from Formula 1 and – thanks to Maserati as the patent holder – is now available in an engine destined for the road.

The third hallmark of the MCPURA is the “Butterfly” doors, to improve access to the passenger compartment and simultaneously reveal the carbon-fibre structure of the chassis. Finally, in the Cielo version, MCPURA introduces a retractable roof in polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) glass, the first to do so in its class, with the ability to switch from opaque to transparent in one second. The onboard experience thus becomes multi-faceted: all-encompassing with the roof closed and opaque; a unique “sky feeling” when the roof is transparent; holistic with the top down.

The MCPURA is produced at the historic Maserati plant on Viale Ciro Menotti, Modena, where in addition to the Nettuno engine, the GT2 Stradale and – from Q4 2025 – the iconic GranTurismo and GranCabrio are also made. The plant stands out for its innovation and artisanship partly thanks to the Officine Maserati Fuoriserie, a recently opened space dedicated to the most refined customisation at the House of the Trident. As such, MCPURA completes its 100% made in Modena path from development to production, all the way to the paintwork of the Fuoriserie versions in the new paint shops.

Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally.

Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. The full-electric range also currently includes the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first 100% electric SUV, and the GranCabrio Folgore. Finally, the House of the Trident’s latest addition is the Maserati GT2 Stradale, the road-legal version of the GT2 that took Maserati back to the track in closed-wheel championships. The heart of the new super sports car is the V6 Nettuno engine, reaching 640 CV (471 kW) in the latter configuration. The GT2 Stradale is therefore the most powerful road-going Maserati with an internal combustion engine.

The mission at Maserati is to write the future of mobility in the luxury segment, focusing on its customers’ requests. The Brand, in line with the Stellantis “Dare Forward 2030” strategic plan, is now taking Italian luxury all over the world.

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While there are plenty of reasons to visit this scenic coastal town on the Garden Route, sailing on the Knysna lagoon on a luxurious catamaran is the perfect way to unwind.

With a sigh of anticipation, I stepped onto the jetty, admiring the catamaran‘s sleek design and spacious deck, which provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable sunset experience.

The sails tightened and the boat set sail away from the safety of the shore. As it pushed its way through the water, we made ourselves comfortable on one of the trampolines and we were on our way on Larabella, Ocean Sailing Charters’s flagship luxury catamaran. Music set the atmosphere on the deck while we sipped at our complimentary sparkling wine and took in the views.

Location

Our sunset sail cruise was on the Knysna Lagoon, which is in the most pristine part of the Garden Route, a coastal stretch that runs from the Outeniqua to the Tsitsikamma Mountain range, of which Knysna is the heart. A town situated on the shores of a protected natural basin guarded by two huge geological formations known as the Knysna Heads, which are two towering sandstone cliffs that rise from the sea, forming a narrow, organic opening into the Indian Ocean. This marvel must be one of the most striking natural geographical features along the entire Southern African coastline. Views along this jagged-edged coast include small hidden beaches bordered by indigenous fynbos and weathering sandstone formations, which, through time, created alluring picturesque coves and mysterious stone caverns.  To complete it all, the line of forests and the blue mountains in the distance create the perfect backdrop for this remarkable vista.

Sun, Wind and Tide

As sailing is a relished Knysna experience, several boat operators take visitors from the lagoon, through the heads to the ocean and back again. The lively Waterfront area of Knysna is lined with gently bobbing sailboats and atmospheric restaurants offering fresh seafood, world-class oysters and magnificent views. There is nothing that makes you feel more alive than breathing in the fresh ocean air while gazing out over the blue horizon with the African sun on your skin.

What sets Ocean Sailing Charters apart from its competitors is its luxury catamarans. The company is a family owner-managed business and operated venture and I could feel this with the extra level of care that went into the experience. They have a team of passionate people who have brought together their love for travel, fun, sailing, good food and excellent wine. We sat back while we were treated to a marvellous escape on the most luxurious catamaran in the Garden Route. The tranquillity of being on the water was very calming as a soft, warm wind blew gently as we sailed on towards the Knysna Heads.

The boat glided smoothly across the calm waters with its sails billowing in the gentle breeze, and there was an opportunity to keep an eye out for playful seals and dolphins, and other majestic marine life.

Testing the waters

As we approached the point in the channel to exit the lagoon, an ominous swell developed in the Heads, the tide was coming in, and there was news of a blustery storm brewing at sea. The experience and confidence of the crew comforted us and were evident as the skipper carefully guided the boat through the swells. The sky darkened, the wind picked up, and the waves crashed against the coastline, driven by increasingly strong winds. The sea swells became towering, then another boat emerged from the mist like a ghostly apparition. Life jackets were hastily put on all passengers, and wine glasses were whipped away in steadiness for the rough waters ahead.

The salty spray kissed my face as the wind filled the sails, and the strong wind streamed through my hair, and the chill nipped our faces. Even with this change in weather, we all had a sense of excitement and harmony with the boat and the elements.

Although a catamaran sailing on swells at sea experiences a unique blend of motion and stability, our captain decided to turn around and head back to the calm lagoon as he decided that it would be too dangerous to try and manoeuvre through the rogue waves.

On a calmer day, the journey would take us out to the glistering ocean and depending on the duration of the cruise, there would be ample time for lazing in the sun, supping on stand-up paddle boards, as well as swimming and snorkelling.

Dinner is served

Once back in the lagoon we were able to unwind and witness a spectacular sunset with a blaze of orange and red across the sky while being treated to the delicious local flavours of the captain’s braai, (BBQ) while sipping on ice-cold drinks and feasting on steak, complimented by an array of tasty salads and garlic bread.

It was astonishing that the crew managed to perfectly cook the fillet steak while guiding the boat and us through that rough patch of swells, having the dinner ready in time for the sunset on the calm waters of the lagoon.

The golden glow of the setting sun that transformed into watercolour hues of pink and lavender across the sky and over the lagoon was magnificent.

Our return, after dinner, was past the old Tapas Jetty on Thesen Island, then past the Knysna Yacht Club and before turning back into the Knysna Quays. This was quite unexpected and a welcome addition of being able to see the waterfront from a different angle. By the time we docked, the sun was just slipping over the horizon, and the views over the glass-like lagoon were immaculate.

Sail fast, live slow

Experience the thrill of adventure as you explore Knysna, which is the “heart and soul” of exploration and adventure along the Garden Route. Its natural surroundings make this the destination for sightseeing, foodie experiences, leisure adventures and recreational sport, be it on the water, on land or in the air. Ocean Sailing Charters is part of the signature Cape Country Routes Collection of carefully selected activities and accommodation in South Africa’s Western and Eastern Cape as they invite you to step into their world and discover the difference.

As I discovered the ocean state of mind, the journey was like a dance with whispers in the wind and a sea worthy of dreams.

Ocean Sailing Charters

T:  076 761 0353,
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Written by Diane McLeish for Luxury Safari Magazine

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Rail journeys are wonderful and all are in some way exceptional – the cross-section of life they carry, the scenery they pass through or the distances they travel.

In an age when it is seen as if the romance has been leached out of travel and the demand for “slow travel” grows, train journeys are bringing travels to less-trodden places often in grand style.

The demand is not new, but these kinds of journeys are more and more on traveller’s wish lists and the trend now for rail travel is to slow down and see more and enjoy the journey. It is not so much about reliving the past but finding novel ways to be present. This certainly includes iconic journeys such as South Africa’s Rovos Rail which is a privately owned and family-run business and ranked as one of the top luxurious train journeys in the world.

Rovos Rail has a style of its own, with train tours that have a blend of earthy African safari and traditional luxury. The journey allowed me to relive the romance of a bygone Africa on a nostalgic 3-night 1400km expedition from Pretoria, South Africa to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the famous Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

Journey start

This adventure begins at the gracious, historical red brick station built in 1948 in Pretoria, South Africa. The property is also home to an engrossing railway museum packed with rail memorabilia. A visit to the museum and a tour of the railway sheds gives passengers a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes workings of the company and sets the mood for the journey ahead.

The train, being more than twenty-six carriages, is pulled by one and sometimes two diesel engines. It used to be pulled by steam but replenishing the engine with water along the way became logistically impossible and the company had to change to using diesel.

With great excitement and the efficient settling of travellers into their private sleeping suites, the train then winds its way northwards crossing the tropic of Capricorn en route to the Zimbabwean border.

Elegant carriages

The use of traditional furnishings, fine wood panelling and period décor throughout, transports guests immediately back to a time of relaxed, elegant and grandeur fashion of rail travel of yesteryear. The wood-panelled sleeping coaches offer guests a choice of spacious air-conditioned twin or double-bedded Royal, Deluxe or Pullman suites, all with every modern convenience alongside the period Edwardian features. Each coach has been meticulously restored and has its personal history -some date back as early as 1911.

The first four hours after we left Pretoria the train ambled along at a slow speed, stopping regularly. I was surprised how slow the train travelled, rarely more than 80km an hour and mostly around 50 kph. The border formalities at Beitbridge, Zimbabwe were efficiently and effortlessly handled by the train manager and staff and we did not even have to leave the comfort of the train.

So what makes a train journey exceptional?

Rovos Rail has wonderful, attentive staff and provides a genuine 1920’s train journey experience. Food is an important part of the Rovos experience and the two dining cars are both beautiful. The polished wood, quality light fittings and carpets all provide a grand ambience of luxurious travel of a bygone age. The dining coaches have two and four-seater booths and the interior designer envisaged a train packed with sophisticates in dining suites and cocktail dresses hence the 1920’s vibe.

Dinner is served by staff in formal black-tie suits and cocktail dresses making for an elegant and sophisticated evening. For guests, formal dress for dinner is encouraged but during the day it is relaxed and safari or casual attire is the norm.

The meals are exceptional with attentive service – lunch and dinner are refined four-course meals and each course is paired with fine South African wines. Breakfast is a more relaxed affair where guests can choose from a breakfast buffet and order traditional hot food.

The train is all-inclusive including the mini bar in the suits. As my husband and I were celebrating an anniversary, sparkling wine and a small gift surprised us in our room and then again at the dinner table. This thoughtfulness was a splendid example of their attention to detail and exceptional customer service.

Falling asleep on a train is a category of its own. The train cars are built to the exact standards of a 1920’s train so there are no modern suspensions or sound deadening systems, so this then gives Rovos Rail travellers the genuine experience.

Game Park stopover

On day three we travelled along the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line, 114 km, before traversing Hwange National Park. With about 100,000 elephants, Zimbabwe has the world’s second-largest population after Botswana. More than half of these elephants roam freely within and outside the vast, sprawling and unfenced Hwange National Park.

Before stopping for a game drive in Hwange National Park, wild animals can occasionally be spotted from the train. A private game lodge called The Hide, had numerous game vehicles waiting to take us for an exhilarating one-hour game drive. Their knowledgeable game rangers eagerly answered all our questions and included so many interesting pieces of information encouraging visitors to not only look out for the Big Five but to enjoy the trees, grasses and small creatures of a game park. The experience ended with sundowners set up with wine, beers and soft drinks as well as delicious hot and cold snacks, all enjoyed around a crackling campfire. As darkness set in, we returned to the train and were greeted by a line of welcoming train staff offering cold flannels and a glass of sparkling wine or fruit juice before boarding the train.

Time to unwind

The train has an observation car which is a prime photography spot and is outside the air-conditioned bar and lounge area. This space also allows visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds of Africa. Watching the rural countryside from either inside or outside, the world blurs into a watercolour of greens and browns, punctuated by the occasional splash of vibrant wildflowers.

Rail journeys take one to the heart of local experience, as well as being safe, environmentally friendly and scenic. As train journeys stick to a set route, they spring no surprises allowing one’s mind to wander and give time for reflection. When travel distance is long, a train journey allows one time, and the interest to strike up conversations with strangers. A long, slow journey is an interruption of reality which creates an atmosphere that cannot be experienced with other types of journeys.

The journey ended in the town of Victoria Falls which is in the northern part of Zimbabwe bordering Livingstone in Zambia. African dancers greeted us at the quaint historic railway station and all luggage was loaded on and taken to the Victoria Falls hotel where some guests stayed and others ventured on to the numerous wonderful lodges in or around the area.

What better way to see the world than by train the Rovos Rail journey is certainly a wonderfully joyous occasion, from the bustling rural towns to the serene African countryside. The journey is filled with moments of excitement, discovery, luxury and introspection.

W : Rovos
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T:  +27 (0) 123158246
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Written by Diane McLeish

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Aberdair Aviation was founded by father-son team, Freddie and Adrian Wilcox. With a relationship built on trust and years of collaboration, Freddie was the first Bell operator in East Africa more than 55 years ago. Today, Bell’s reputation for producing reliable and high-performing helicopters still aligns with Aberdair’s mission to provide top-tier aviation solutions across Africa.

Aberdair operates for Great Plains Conservation in Kenya and uses the Bell 505, Bell’s single-engine helicopter known for its versatility across various industries. The Bell 505 has become a well-established choice for both commercial and military training, while also being popular for private ownership. Additionally, it is widely used in law enforcement and Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). Its adaptable cabin space, flat floor, clamshell doors, powerful and fuel-efficient engine (the only dual-channel FADEC controlled engine in its class), high visibility, and intuitive avionics make it a highly versatile platform for any mission.

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Umganu Lodge is owned by Kevin Pietersen, a British/South African Sportsman with an extensive network of high-net worth foreign patrons, and is listed publicly on the AltVest Capital platform, a disruptive investment platform listed on the CTSE.

This beautiful, air-conditioned lodge can accommodate up to 12 guests in 5 spacious en-suite bedrooms, each one beautifully decorated in one of Africa’s big 5 animals ~lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. The open-plan living area is stylishly decorated with high volume ceilings, beautifully polished cement floors, and offers wifi throughout.

Step outside where you will find a heated outdoor pool, sunken boma and braai area, a large viewing deck and a covered patio make it ideal for outdoor entertainment.

Umganu Lodge provides great opportunities for all investors, as well as top class luxury accommodation for those clients who’d simply like an exceptional and breathtaking getaway.

For those looking for an investment opportunity in this property on a level at which you are able to see the benefits of the property investment by earning a dividend as the property value increases, and also have ownership use of the property correlating to your investment, viz, an allocation of a number of days per year for your use or for on-sale, please contact the team at Altvest Capital for more information.

To plan your own visit, please click HERE

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Versatile, spacious and smart, fast and fun, an elegant and unforgettable sound experience.

South Africa, 5 December 2022 – Welcome the Maserati Grecale, the new SUV to make everyday life exceptional.

The Grecale is the true personification of the Maserati style, the perfect, bold synthesis of avant-garde and passion, innovation and timeless design. An SUV to be driven anytime, anywhere, by anyone, to turn journeys into something extraordinary.

Grecale takes the name of a wind and is a range within the range. It fulfils all requirements with every kind of powertrain: conventional combustion and hybrid engines, with the full-electric Grecale Folgore on the horizon, destined to become the first 100% electric SUV in Maserati history.

Our research into colours, materials and specifications begins with the brand’s identity. Based on its singularity and evolution of Made in Italy, geographic uniqueness and cosmopolitan spirit, elegance, comfort and pure driving pleasure.

GT, Modena, Trofeo: these are the three versions available at launch. Each version is an account of different aspects of the same over-arching theme.

Grecale GT, with its four-cylinder 300-hp mild hybrid (223 kW), recalls the city and its contemporary minimalism. It is intended for world citizens and their dynamism, curiosity and fashion consciousness, but is also in constant search for a style that makes itself personal.

Grecale Modena, equipped with a four-cylinder 330-hp mild hybrid (247 kW), has an innate, timeless elegance and unleashes the charm of nature lovers who make the most of their free time.

Finally, Grecale Trofeo, with a powerful 530-hp V6 (395 kW), represents pure adrenaline, where the car’s disruptive performance becomes the perfect tool to take up your very own personal challenge.

Three different ways of interpreting Grecale, but there’s more. An entire range that becomes a canvas to plot your own lifestyle on, one day after another.

Recognisable traits of the everyday exceptional that translate into the three colours at launch: the GT version comes in Bronzo Opaco, an enveloping and silky matte hue; Modena is Grigio Cangiante (iridescent grey), made possible by an interposed three-layer paint with effects inspired by the freshness of summer light; Trofeo comes in Giallo Corse, a powerful expression of the unbreakable bond between Maserati and Modena, a shade that combines the city’s two heraldic colours, with a yellow base and a blue mica, for the sportiest look.

Grecale is all about comfort, versatility and the sound experience: just immerse yourself in the 360° sound, courtesy of the engine’s unmistakable roar and the Sonus faber audio system with 3D sound and up to 21 speakers.

Grecale is all about being smart and touch-based. Interact with the various displays: the classic cluster, the new 12.3” central screen – the largest ever seen in a Maserati, and a smaller 8.8” comfort display with extra controls and the new digital clockface.

Grecale is all about innovation courtesy of the new technical specifications, including the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, the latest infotainment, comfort display, and the Heads-up Display, available as an option.

To top off the driving experience, the extraordinary dynamics with five configurable drive modes – Comfort, GT, Sport, Corsa (Trofeo only) and Off-Road – mean you can shift from the most user-friendly mood in the utmost comfort to the powerful emotions of extreme responsiveness and potency.

Like an outfit, jewellery or a work of art you select for your home, Grecale serves as a means to identify yourself as someone who always stands out from the crowd. Grecale is an exceptional experience, every day.

Pricing at launch (first deliveries in January 2023)

Maserati Grecale GT – R1 650 000

Maserati Grecale Modena – R1 950 000

Maserati Grecale Trofeo – R2 550 000

The post Maserati Grecale is the Everyday Exceptional, South Africa appeared first on Luxury Safari Magazine.

Since time immemorial the Karoo – a landscape of space, stars and silence – has held a special place in the hearts of many South Africans – its heart-lifting scenery evoking a humbling kind of magic.

A vast semi-desert that spans nearly 400,000 km² (an area larger than Germany) and stretches across four provinces, the Karoo splits into roughly two sections, the Great Karoo to the north-east and the smaller Little Karoo (Klein Karoo) in the south-west. Long recognised for its serene, peaceful beauty and distinctive farming culture, the Karoo’s conservation significance has only recently been appreciated.

In the expansive Groot Karoo, Samara Karoo Reserve sits positioned at the juncture of five of South Africa’s nine vegetation biomes in a Global Biodiversity Hotspot. This astonishing diversity of topographies, vegetation and arid-adapted wildlife makes Samara unique and unmistakably different from other Eastern Cape game reserves. Mountain-top grasslands, akin to a mini-Serengeti marooned in the sky, combined with dense Spekboom-covered valleys, winding river systems and flat plains with distant purple peaks to create one of South Africa’s most diverse safari destinations.

Samara’s story is also distinctive – a passionate rewilding project that began in 1997. Samara’s founders Mark and Sarah Tompkins were inspired by tales of a long-lost Karoo – a wilderness in which millions of springbok once grazed, the now-extinct quagga roamed and the pride of black-maned Cape lion reigned supreme. The loss of this biodiversity through hunting, livestock overgrazing and other human activities posed a formidable challenge – could the Karoo be restored to its wild state?

The Tompkinses recount how humbled they were by the magnificence of this landscape they sought to protect.

“The Karoo is a deeply soulful place, the symbolic heart of South Africa. Those who visit cannot fail to marvel at the feeling of space here, of extensive grassy plains punctuated by dramatic dolerite-capped mountains, of never-ending horizons, of a land that was once a big game area rivalling the most magnificent on Earth. So it was that twenty-five years ago we embarked on a project to do our bit to restore it to its former glory,” recalls Sarah.

An ambitious programme of land restoration and wildlife reintroduction has seen the return of more than a dozen mammal species, including the first lion, cheetah, black rhinoceros and elephant to step foot back on the land in over 130 years. Certain species, like the Cape vulture and leopard, have returned of their own accord – a testament to the reserve’s rewilding success. Today, still pursuing Samara’s mission with as much enthusiasm as its founders, is second-generation Isabelle Tompkins.

“The Great Karoo is an irreplaceable part of our national heritage. In honouring and celebrating this region, and by adding the word “Karoo” to our name, we hope to bring this special place to a broader audience and to inspire others to care for it,” she says.

Samara adopts a responsible tourism model to fund its conservation objectives, with a focus on slow and meaningful safari encounters that inspire a deep connection with the wild spaces of the Great Karoo. Two luxury lodges sleeping up to 26 guests welcome discerning nature-lovers for exceptional wilderness and wildlife experiences in one of the lowest guest-to-land ratios in Africa.

At the heart of every guest’s stay is a showcase of what makes the Karoo so unique, from the quintessentially warm hospitality displayed by the Samara team to the Karoo menu of locally sourced and regeneratively-farmed produce. Alongside the usual Big Five game drives and guided bush walks, guests can explore the Karoo’s rich history on a fossil tour, sleep out in a star bed under the celebrated Karoo night skies and track Samara’s most famous predator – the cheetah – on foot.

Samara Karoo Reserve
T:  031 262 0324
T:  049 940 0059
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W: Samara

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The very first unit – finished in a multi-layer Bianco Audace paint and with a raft of unique carbon fibre detailing – has been delivered to its new owner. A second MC20, finished in the stunning Blu Infinito colour, is currently on display at Maserati House in Johannesburg.

“The Maserati MC20 welcomes a new era for Maserati, both globally and in South Africa. As a super sports car, the MC20 represents the pinnacle of performance and a return to Maserati-unique power plants with its Nettuno engine.

“As a nameplate, it signals the return to racing in closed-wheel competitions for a brand that was born on the racetrack. And for Maserati South Africa, it opens the order book for the MC20, the Levante Hybrid and soon, the new Maserati Grecale,” says Nagesh Naidoo, Dealer Principal of Maserati Johannesburg.

Each Maserati MC20 that will be delivered to a South African customer in 2022 has been designed and built exclusively to order.

Customers spend time with the Maserati team in the Maserati Configuration Room to design and specify their model under the Fuoriserie customisation programme. They also have the option of visiting the Modena manufacturing plant to view their super sports car being built.

“The MC20 is completely bespoke and only available in very limited numbers globally. In this, as in its performance, design and motorsport heritage, it is a true successor to the legendary MC12,” says Nagesh.

The MC20 is a mid-engine super sports car that offers a select few the thrill of its biturbo Nettuno V6 engine, which delivers 630 horsepower and 750 Newton metres in a carbon-bodied supercar that weighs less than 1500 kg*. Top speed is rated at over 326 km/h and the zero to 100 km/h sprint is dispatched in 2,88 seconds.

For more information on the Maserati MC20 or to configure your own supercar, visit maserati.com/za or the Maserati Johannesburg is situated in Maserati House, Bryanston Boulevard in Johannesburg.

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Pollman’s Tours & Safaris is constantly renewing its vehicle fleet to ensure that our travellers have a comfortable, trouble free safari. Recently, we made the decision to move many of our programmes to four-wheel drive vehicles to improve accessibility and comfort.

There is no question that the roads in Kenya can have some rough patches. This is where a combination of quality, well maintained vehicles and experienced driver-guides can be the difference between a good safari in Kenya and a great holiday experience.

We still operate a variety of vehicles meeting the specific needs of our travellers. For transfers, we use safari buses. We also use Toyota’s Noahs for private VIP transfers.

For something really special, we can provide transfers in a Mercedes Benz or luxury 4×4.

For groups, we provide transfers in 24 passenger coaches. These are also used for shared transfers on the Kenyan coast to the many spectacular Indian Ocean resorts we serve.

The interiors of our vehicles are spacious and designed with the safari traveller in mind. Most have power points for recharging camera batteries. Pop-open roofs allow panoramic game viewing as well as protection from the sun. A cooler box provides chilled water and vehicles also carry a first aid kit and other tools to be prepared for any bump along the way.

All seats have seat belts and pass rigorous safety checks before each safari.

The most important part of any vehicle is the driver. Our drivers and driver-guides are well trained and must have extensive experience before they take our travellers on safari. Many speak a number of languages including French, Spanish, Italian, German and of course English

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A: Pollmans Tours & Travel, P.O Box 84198, Mombasa 80100, Kenya
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If I say to you, close your eyes and think of Paris, what image do you see in your mind’s eye? The Eiffel Tower of course. Now do the same with Cape Town… Do you see that iconic postcard image of Table Mountain with the city nestled below being caressed by the beautiful coastline? That is the view you will experience every time you’re on board with Cape Town Helicopters.

It is all about the views for us, and there is no better way to get a bird’s eye view of one of the most magical landscapes on earth than soaring above it with a helicopter.

To enhance this experience Cape Town Helicopters have upgraded their fleet to the best air-tourism helicopters in the world, the Airbus H120 and H130 helicopters.

These machines were purposely built for scenic helicopter flying and offer unsurpassed views from inside their open-air cabins. All seats face forward and are theatre styled, allowing all passengers views to the front and side.

They come standard fitted with air conditioning to allow a comfortable experience to our guests in the hot Cape Town summers.

The H120 and H130 are eco-friendly in terms of noise emissions and operate at half the noise levels of traditional helicopters, perfect for flying around the noise-sensitive Cape Peninsula, you don’t want to make one person’s day and spoil another’s.

Lastly, we added Bose Aviation Grade headsets that cancel out all the noise inside the cabin, allowing you to listen to your pilot give you a guided tour and to communicate with your fellow passengers. All Cape Town Helicopter pilots have qualified tour guides.

We offer a range of scenic flights in and around Cape Town, showcasing all its natural beauty, from statuesque mountains to pristine beaches and historic landmarks. This is a must-do experience when visiting Mother City.

For the more adventurous at heart, there are flights to Gansbaai where you can go shark cage diving or whale watching. We also fly to close-by game reserves if you want to embark on a game drive to see the Big Five.

If you plan on visiting a wine estate whilst in Cape Town then we would love to be your mode of transport, arriving by helicopter is the way to do it. Our pilot and helicopter wait for you whilst you enjoy your wine pairing and lunch before we bring you back to base safely afterward.

For those looking for something a little more exclusive and unique, we have curated 13 Cape Town Experiences which are combinations of scenic helicopter flights, amazing locations, food, wine and art. Let me tell you about two of these unbelievable experiences to give you an idea.

The Fynbos Mountain Gourmet Picnic.

Two Oceans and 1100 indigenous species of Fynbos, 1 of only 7 Floristic Kingdoms on earth.

Fly with us to one of the most stunning picnic spots you’ll ever see.

And we guarantee no one else will be there.

About the experience

The magnificent Cape Point & the many reasons why you should pay it a visit. At the very tip of the Cape Peninsula, 60km southwest of the city of Cape Town, lies the magnificent Cape Point. We fly you from the V&A Waterfront to see the Cape Peninsula from the air and below. Once you have rounded the point we fly back to some hills above Misty Cliffs. This marks the site for our fynbos tour and picnic. We land on Baskloof Private nature reserve owned by Danielle and Ivan Harris. Baskloof was purchased over 40 years ago and has been restored through tireless efforts of the owners.

What you will do

The guide will take you on a 20-minute walk to the top of Platberg, the mountain of the “sleeping dog” which divides and joins Misty Cliffs and Scarborough. Here you experience breathtaking views of Misty Cliffs – possibly something only a few people have seen before. Please be careful when walking in Fynbos not to damage the plants. Always walk looking down and not ahead. Your guide will then take you to a specially selected viewing point which will be the spot for the gourmet picnic. Our CTX chef has prepared a meal based on your requests and dietary requirements. Your host will either be your pilot or a CTX ground host who will make sure the meal is a special proudly south African meal. You will also be treated to wines from Cape Point Vineyards – the most Southern Wine Farm in Africa. After lunch, you will have some time on the reserve to examine the fauna and flora in further detail. We provide some nice comfy cushions (bean bags) so that you can relax and sleep while your food settles. Once properly relaxed we fly you back to the V&A. You might wonder how you can be close to Cape Town but so far away from civilization.

Magical West Coast Mussels and Oysters on the Beach.

We have found a unique place on the West Coast with a ‘boma’ on the beach that serves delicious mussels and oysters.

About the tour

The Mussel and oyster beds are farmed right in front of the property, so they are noticeably in a league of their own, and of course, freshness isn’t a problem. You’ll leave the V&A Waterfront Heli base and fly up the West Coast to Saldanha Bay, to be met by your hosts Kyle and Marti. This is one of those experiences where we prefer to say less and let the pictures tell the story. We can guarantee that this is not “standard seafood” offering. This experience includes the flight, the delicious meal of Mussels and Oysters and champagne (with some starters of bread & smoked fish) as well as soft drinks.

Would you ever have imagined that you can do these amazing experiences with a helicopter?

If we can land there, we can fly there.

Come and fly with us.

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