Nicole Bowes

Wine and dine

Nicole Bowes

Client Experience Expert

I have been part of the tourism industry since 2009 and my career has taken me to incredible places, including living and working in Thailand. One of the most surprising destinations I've travelled to is Madagascar, with its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife—it's truly unforgettable.

My favourite destination is Victoria Falls. I love the warm, welcoming people, the charm of the town, and the unbeatable experience of watching a sunset over the Zambezi River—it's pure magic.

Soulful Safari Reflection

Sitting by the fire in Hwange National Park, I felt completely calm and at peace. Beyond the glow of the flames, a herd of about 50 elephants, including several young calves, gathered at a nearby waterhole. The sounds they made—low rumbles, soft trumpets, and the occasional splash filled the air, blending with the crackling of the fire. The scene was simple yet incredible, a reminder of how connected everything feels in the wild. It was one of those moments where you just sit, take it all in, and feel truly at ease.

My Best African Travel Advice

When traveling in Africa, take the time to simply sit back, relax, and let the experience sink in. It’s easy to get caught up in ticking things off your itinerary, but the real magic happens in the quiet moments. Whether you're watching a sunset over the savannah, listening to the distant roar of lions at night, or feeling the warmth of a fire under a star-filled sky, Africa has a way of creeping into your soul.

Don't rush. Reflect on the sights, sounds, and emotions. You’ll realize it's not just about seeing incredible wildlife or stunning landscapes—it's about how this place makes you feel. Africa stays with you long after you leave, in the most beautiful way.

Tours & Safaris

Nicole Bowes's top picks
See All Safaris
10 days
This Positive Impact Safari includes a donation to a Community initiative
This safari is a Trip With A Purpose
Thorntree River Lodge in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia | Go2Africa Your suite with views of Thorntree River. thorntree-river-lodge-mosi-oa-tunya-national-park-zambia_2 Canoe. Victoria Falls. somalisa-camp-2 Somalisa swimming pool. Bathroom with a view at Somalisa Camp.
Highlights

Game drives and guided bush walks – superb wildlife viewing. Stay at exquisite African lodges in breath-taking locations.

Destinations visited
Hwange National Park Lake Kariba Victoria Falls Zambia Zimbabwe

11-Day South Luangwa & Madagascar

From $28,705 to $31,255 pps
11 days
Village Piazza. Beautiful sunset view from your deck. Golden crowned lemur. Suite exterior. Stargaze around a camp fire at Chinzombo. Chinzombo villa interior. Chinzombo exterior.
Highlights

A unique combination of stunning safari and beach destinations. Tropical island and protected coral reef environments off Madagascar.

Destinations visited
Madagascar South Luangwa National Park Zambia
11 days
This safari is a Trip With A Purpose
Telemetry tracking in action. main-area-at-explorers-camp La Cle offer luxurious vacation villas at the heart of the Cape's food-and-wine experience. Game drives at Kwandwe. Rhino conservation safari. Mgcamabele Community Centre. Kwandwe big game walking safari.
Highlights

Explore a private reserve in the malaria-free Marakele National Park. Delight in the food, wine & history in Franschhoek.

Destinations visited
Cape Winelands Eastern Cape Franschhoek South Africa

Accommodation

Nicole Bowes's top picks
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Old Drift Lodge

From $700 to $995 pps
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The lodge exudes an old-world charm among modern luxuries. Cosy up beside the fireplace. Each suite walks out onto a private deck. Fall asleep every night to the soothing lullaby of the Zambezi River. The lounge is perfect to unwind. Wake up every morning to a symphony of birdsongs. View from the top of Old Drift Lodge.
Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Bird watching Boat excursions Day tours Fine dining experience Game drives

Victoria Falls Hotel

From $330 to $365 pps
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Only minutes away from the thundering Victoria Falls. Outside view of the guest area. Dine on delicious cuisine. Communal area to mingle with the other guests Relax in the spacious lounge. Stylish and welcoming reception. Spacious accommodation.
Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Animal interactive experience Boat excursions Canoeing Cultural visits Day tours

Twelve Apostles Hotel

From $310 to $430 pps
Cape Town, South Africa
Order your favourite drink from the bar before enjoying your meal, followed perhaps by a movie at the private cinema.
You're never at a loss for views at The 12 Apostles: choose between mountain views & ocean panoramas.
Looking west over the mercurial Atlantic Ocean, The 12 Apostles Hotel has a reputation for stunning sunsets.
Surrounded by indigenous flora, The 12 Apostles Hotel sits in splendid isolation on Table Mountain's wild western flanks.
The hotel's lantern-lit bar creates the ideal ambience in which to enjoy a romantic African sunset.
Rooms at the hotel offer either mountain or ocean views but a long list of creature comforts is standard to all.
The hotel is well-known for its world-class spa - enjoy a treatment set to ocean views.
Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Beach activities Guided walks Helicopter flights Hiking Picnics