(August 2013)  Stay at the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, South Africa's most exclusive private retreat, set in ten acres of landscaped gardens and get to know Johannesburg, Africa's most dynamic city.    The Saxon, which is located in the tranquil, tree-lined suburb of Sandhurst, just  minutes from Johannesburg's world-class shopping and business hub, prides itself on being voted the World's Leading Boutique Hotel since 2001.

After two days of exploring of Johannesburg, you will be whisked away to a magical experience in the African bush; the Saxon's sister hotel, the Shambala Private Game Reserve situated in the picturesque Waterberg region in the Limpopo Province. The Limpopo Province is home to the Big Five (leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo and lion).

The Tibetan word 'Shambala' means 'Paradise on Earth'.   One of the most memorable activities at Shambala is going on an elephant safari.  These elephants were originally relocated from Zimbabwe, where their existence was under severe threat.  They are trained and cared for by their experienced trainers with whom they share a close bond.

Conclude your experience with the pièce de résistance at Shambala - a leisurely sundowner cruise on the Douw Steyn Dam, taking in the spectacular sunset as the birds wing their way home and the bushveld slowly turns to dusk.  

 Experience Africa with the Saxon Hotel and Shambala Private Game Reserve

The package is   R42, 500 per couple (HKD 33,360 / CNY 26,400) and includes:

• Two nights at the Saxon including breakfast each morning
• Three night at Shambala including all meals and local beverages
• All transfers to Shambala and activities at Shambala, with one elephant back safari per person.

Press information:

Mango PR

nicole.ko@mangopr.com / vivian.woo@mangopr.com/ romilly.king@mangopr.com

Hong Kong: +852 2862 8003   Singapore:  + 65 6536 6527



For further information and reservations:

Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa

36 Saxon Road   Sandhurst Johannesburg 2196  PO Box 567  Saxonworld  2132  South Africa

T:  +27 90)11 292 600  F: +27 (0)11 292 6001  E: reservations@saxon.co.za  W: www.saxon.co.za

About the Saxon Hotel  : The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa in Johannesburg is one of the world's most exclusive and original boutique hotels.  The 53 suite and villa hotel has excellent business amenities, world-class cuisine and a leading spa.  Set in the affluent Sandhurst suburb of Sandton, surrounded by ten acres of private gardens, The Saxon, which is the former home of Douw Steyn, one of South Africa's leading businessmen, guarantees its guests' privacy and exclusivity.      After his release from prison, Nelson Mandela chose to live here to finish his biography The Long Walk to Freedom. The Saxon is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and Leading Spas of the World.

The Saxon's entrance exudes an air of quiet majesty with a sweeping feature staircase and spectacular chandelier. Looking towards the Oprah Lounge, Piano Lounge, Cigar Lounge and restaurant, the neutral shades of the interior reflect the tones and textures of Africa. The pinnacle of literary tranquillity is the sophisticated Dining Library and the Cigar Lounge where guests can withdraw to a reflective world of quiet comfort.

The Saxon's contemporary African interior is light, airy and spacious, leaving a lasting impression of stately elegance interspersed with novel Eastern accents and African artefacts.  The central point of the Saxon is the impressive infinity pool. The pool terrace is the ideal relaxation area for taking in the superb sunset views before making your way to the spectacular Koi pond just a few steps away. The Koi Terrace, which features a heated pool that plays underwater music, and the dining gazebo is an ideal setting for leisurely lunches or High Teas.
Originally designed in 1990 as a private residence for Douw Steyn, one of South Africa's leading captains of commerce, the Saxon is a quiet retreat from the outside world with panoramic views over the private gardens towards the city skyline beyond.

About Shambala Private Game Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa: 

Shambala Private Game Reserve is situated on 12,000 hectares of natural landscape, providing an unmatched setting for viewing the big five: leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo and lion. Sitting in the picturesque region of the Waterberg mountain range of South Africa, Shambala comprises seven chalets constructed in traditional Zulu materials that blend with the landscape. Each chalet is en-suite with a balcony and inviting outdoor shower.

Shambala offers guests a bespoke experience, creating individual menus and tailoring itineraries for game drives and exploration. The tranquil setting is ideal for honeymooners, couples and guests looking for an 'Out of Africa' experience, whether enjoying an exhilarating elephant-back safari or having a quiet dinner on the shore of the river that runs through the camp.  www.shambalagamereserve.com