There are literally hundreds of national parks and preserved wildlife areas in African safaris that you are sure to find yourself cramping all them into limited schedules. That way, you may see all. but would you rather experience safaris in excessively fast pace and never get the marvel from them or take one place at a time and leave the rest for another vacation and indulge yourself in true beauty. Well, that is practically a personal preference.

To trim down the possibility that you would not take pleasure from the safaris of Africa, we have listed five hottest destinations in this article. Please read on…

Serengeti in Tanzania

This is the famous sight that we normally see in videos documenting the annual migration of animals to find fresher grounds. In fact, the event is duly ranked as one of the most wonderful occurrences in the world. Endless safaris are filled with animals, evoking the spirit of survival and wildlife, all longing to find some place to stay during the worst times of the year.

Masai Mara in Kenya

Wanting to see cats dominating the wildlife, go to Masai Mara, the haven for cheetahs, lions and leopards.

See them in action and see them near…this sight is most perfect for cat enthusiasts as they offer endless miles of vegetation which is conducive for survival. Not too mention, conducive for game viewing.

However, this is strictly not the perfect place if you want to be alone. Since it is popular, it had become the hottest sight for the outpour of tourists.

Kruger National Park in South Africa

For superb accommodation and sheer delight of seeing myriad of animals, plants and bird species, this park seems to be one of the perfect place to offer thrills that safaris in Africa may present. This is due to the reason that the park shelters diverse ecosystems that allow different species to coexist within a single location.

Selinda Reserve in Botswana

Though this haven is less popular among novice safari travelers, it is still the top choice of seasoned travelers who seem to return to the place over and over and over again. The high standard of accommodation and high concentration of species draws them towards this sanctuary.

South Luangwa National Park in Zambia

This is one of Africa’s best kept secrets, which only waits for its own time to be. It is like a diamond that is about to be discovered amidst the roughness of the stones. Someday, as experts say, South Luangwa National Park will claim it proper place among the top vacation spots in Africa.

The land offers exotic natural scenic beauty and its inhabitants truly in their raw forms to mesmerize your traveling experience. So, if you planning a vacation to rejuvenate your senses, Africa holidays will surely charm you.

Many countries of the continent provide daring Africa safaris capable of holding your nerves including Kenya, Zambia, Namibia, Mauritius, South Africa and others. These holiday safaris give you a chance to hobnob with wild monster and feel their activities. You can also get closer and take some amazing pictures that will remain in your memory for a longer period of time.

Holiday safaris are the main tourist attraction of African nations. People willing to take safari holidays Africa can get appropriate arrangements to fix their meeting with wild beasts. If you are staying at resorts then you can contact their travel & tourism to guide you properly. They will further make you registered with holiday safaris which lead you to see giraffe, gazelle, lions and wild elephants. Imagine how you feel when you see a real lion roaring and establishing his power. The unspeakable emotions and feelings will always stay in your conscious.

African safari holidays are a full package of excitement and danger. Therefore, one should keep utmost care and precaution while planning to go on Africa safaris. Choose your place carefully and always accompany experienced people for the real fun. Do not get out of your vehicle while you are in jungle as monsters can be attacking sometimes. Maintain some distances to capture your fun moments and do not anything that can entice animals to attack you.

Africa offers you some real thrilling safari experiences that you will cherish for long. It is an ultimate vacation which gives you a challenging encounter with several powerful animals of the real jungle. Plan you Africa safari to experience mystique and heart taking encounters and save some good memories.

On June 2007 I visited Tanzania and Kenya.. I did some safari in Masai Mara, Serengeti, Amboseli, Ngorongoro crater and others… It was amazing!!.. This is the first video I ever edited.. it was so hard…. specially because most of my footage comes from my digital camara. Anyway hope you like it. the name of the song is hopipolla by sigur ross I am an ecuadorian traveler!!!

 

Fly540, a Kenya based airline which became the 3rd operator on the Entebbe-Nairobi route in February is positioning it self to take on the continent’s established airlines as the race to capture African skies by regional airlines moves into advanced stages.

Fly540 is a semblance of the low cost carriers as it kicked off with low cost flights on the Entebbe-Nairobi route as compared to Kenya Airways and Air Uganda. With a major motive of becoming Africa’s first budget airline, Fly540 is promising to extend its services to other African regions, a statement from the marketing department read.

A statement also stated that Uganda is the first target, after establishing a nationwide existence in Kenya though soon, it will spread to Tanzania with Mwanza as the first destination of operation thereby offering low cost carrier to tourists and business people traveling between Kenya and Tanzania. According to the statement, “Mwanza first because there is a lot of business travel there. The traffic is very heavy and because people are flying quite frequently, and for them to do so, they also need to save.”

By October, the Tanzania route is expected to be open while there is a plan to extend services to Dar-es-salaam, Zanzibar, Moshi, and Kilimanjaro accordingly before further extending to Angola.

After Angola which will act as hub for Southern Africa, the next target is Rwanda and there after, proceed to West Africa of which, Ghana will act as the hub for the West African Region. After all this is achieved, it will then be a pan African low cost airline, becoming the first airline with hubs in 3 quadrants in Africa that offers services which people require that is; low costs for travel that will be convenient to their budgets.



The airline which has flown about 7,000 passengers on the Entebbe-Nairobi route since it started establishes that it is growing on a monthly basis with a steady increase in sales which is no doubt a step towards achieving their ambitious dream.

This step is set to improve travel with in the East African region there by enabling the branding of East Africa as a single tourist destination with the chance of visiting Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania tourism attraction at the same time. As the plan for the rest of Africa sets in, Africa would become a better place to visit since travel costs will be reduced a factor that has been impeding tourist visits to the continent.

It’s hard to believe Obama’s presidency in more popular in Kenya and Africa than in America. USA is Kenya’s second biggest source of tourists after Britain. The question every safari operator ponders on is whether the Obama presidency will have an effect on Kenya safari seekers.

The newest addition on Kenya’s tourism portfolio is a small modest village west of Kenya, set to go along with the worlds finest game reserve ‘The Masai mara’ named last year as a world wonder, ‘Lamu islands’ named by the United Nations as a world heritage site and the white sandy beach of the Kenyan coast line to mention just a few.

Questions have been asked whether Americans and the many international travelers to Kenya will take keen interest and to some make it a life time dream to see ‘Kogelo village’ near Lake Victoria, the very origin of the current most powerful man in the world.

Mama Sarah still lives there and wish nothing will change, she loves the neighborhood and the old villager way of life, but not any more, her mud and tin house has been redone and nicely refurbished and now has running water and electricity.

Nelson Mandela, the South African legend and one of the worlds most celebrated person was born and raised in a small country side province, spending his early years in the tiny village of Qunu, just outside Mthatha. Many tourists gather here daily from all over the world mostly enroute or after a typical safari, says Sinyiko Zimisele, a professional guide at Qunu’s Nelson Mandela Museum.

Qunu now a thriving community is where Mandela has said he spent the happiest years of his youth, doing his herd-boy duties, playing in the river and sailing down the “sliding stone”. When his father was persecuted by a white magistrate and deposed as chief of Mvozo, where Nelson Mandela was born and raised, the family took refuge at a modest village of Qunu. It is the place where the young Rolihlahla, in colonial tradition, was named Nelson on his first day at school.

In Kenya, the government has proposed a Museum to be set up, which will accommodate the history of Obama junior in the USA and family back ground, all to be stocked with the artifacts and works of the late Barrack Obama Snr who was born here and the father of the US President. A documentary explanation of the Obamas family, history and background and those featuring the Kogelo sub-clan as a whole will be detailed here.

The recent surprise visit at the village by Kenyan top government officials and the tourism minister is expected to rekindle the sleeping blue print of western Kenya safari tourist circuit made nearly 30 years ago, with the rich culture and breathtaking country landscape among other touristy attractions on offer, but which has for all these years remained in the drawing board without being implemented.

Most Africans are happy that the Obama development will open up the influx of Kenya safari tourists to the expansive rift valley, then to the must see Lake Victoria, a fishing haven. Safari tourists will wound up the safari at the Obama’s family Museum at Kogelo Village.

The Kenyan safari circuits needed fresh ideas and one just fell off the skys. The Chinese even before Kenya could start reaping the fruits are the first beneficiaries as they have been awarded a tender to expand an airport on the lake side 60 kilometers from Kogelo so as tourist can access Obama’s root village.

There is also the ambitious multi million shilling investment initiative spearheaded by Kenya Railways Corporation intended to turn Kisumu town set on the lake side into a regional business and one of the Kenya’s tourism hub.

The USA Kenya tourists traffic in my experience consists of 90% from the white community and Kenya is more optimistic that the Africa Americans will be finding a Kenyan Safari a must do in order to quest the urge to see the origin of the very first Africa American super hero.

The very own Kenyan’s followed by the East African friendly neighbors of Uganda, Tanzania and Ethiopia have set the pace with school programs set to cover a visit north all as part of the vital history learning experience and role model lesson for the hopeful youths.

Families in Kenya has just found a reason enough to pack up and take that road trip during the next school holidays. In simple terms Kenyans and Africans have never felt so close a wonderland to far far away wonder land they call – The US.

The sultry heat of Africa hit us as we stepped off the Kenya Airways flight at Dar es Salaam and it was only 8:30am, some 23 hours after leaving home in Spain, so it was with some relief that we entered the delightfully cool foyer of the Royal Palm Mövenpick Hotel an hour later.

Our rooms were a good size, the hotel pool was clean with waiter service and a poolside restaurant so all that a weary traveller could wish for. The in-hotel Italian restaurant was excellent and we all indulged in the enormous local prawns, which could have been mistaken for small lobsters. We made the most of this meal as we had no idea what to expect on our safari to two of the largest and remotest game reserves in Tanzania.

I should explain that there were four of us – my husband, myself and two close friends – we hoped that after holidaying together that we’d still be that way! This destination was a very last minute decision as we should have been in Kenya. However, the political turmoil there dictated that we make a change so we opted for Tanzania, where our friends had safaried previously but we had not. In any event, our two camp safari took in national parks where they had not been so, happily, a new adventure for us all.

7:00am saw us en route for Jongomero Camp in Ruaha National Park by light aircraft. Despite its 23,000 square kilometres, making it larger than Wales, Ruaha is so wild and remote that it does not attract anything like the tourist numbers found at parks such as Arusha, Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater. Indeed, one cannot expect to find game in such huge numbers either, but in some ways the difficulty in locating the game makes a sighting all the more exciting. The time of year of our visit (February) being the end of the short rains meant that game spotting would be all the more challenging as the trees and undergrowth would all be in full leaf, providing ideal camouflage for those creatures not wishing to show off for visitors, but more of the animals later.

We were met at Jongomero airstrip and transported to the camp where we were welcomed by singing staff and the young South African couple who ran the place. Our tents were well spaced for privacy and followed the curve of the river bank; on the way we passed a small swimming pool and sun beds. This was not the stuff of boy scout camping, with a large double bed, dressing area, fully equipped shower room and terrace overlooking the river. But enough of the sleeping tent; a cold beer was beckoning from the open fronted makuti thatched lounge/bar area, also with a view of the river, followed by lunch of meatballs, couscous and salad.

Our afternoon game drive was delayed by an hour or so by heavy rain but soon enough we set off in a purpose built safari vehicle – a four wheel drive with two rows of tiered seats behind the driver designed so that everyone had the best view possible. We were lucky to have a vehicle built for six passengers between four of us, so plenty of room for cameras, binoculars, bird books and all the other paraphernalia without which no game drive would be complete.

After the recent rainfall, the tracks were somewhat muddy and sliding the jeep was often the only way forward. Nonetheless, it wasn’t long before our first game sighting, a dik-dik, that cutest of antelopes, which even fully grown rarely stands more than knee high on the average human. After that a large batchelor group of impala then increasingly giraffes camouflaged in the trees or standing sentinel beside, or sometimes right in the middle of the track.

Our friend is particularly keen on bird watching, so there were numerous stops to identify a huge variety of bird life. Suddenly our driver, Eric, veered off the track whispering “elephant”. He wove the four wheel drive between saplings and scrubby bushes until we could see what he meant; a whole herd of elephant, probably around twenty of them, making their way through the undergrowth. As we followed at a discreet distance, they trundled down the river bank and across to the other side, eventually disappearing into the bush.

There are no other camps in this area of Ruaha but one of the other drivers radioed to say that a pack of African hunting or “painted” dogs had been sighted. Our friend had a particular ambition to see these creatures so the hunt was on; not bothering with the track, Eric rocketed us through the scrub further up the river bank. We quartered back and forth for a while but the dogs were gone; oh well, plenty of time to catch up with them.

Back at camp, cold beer was gratefully consumed as we discussed what we’d seen and consulted one of the waiters, who was something of an expert, on the birds that we had seen. Showered and changed for the cool of the evening, aperitifs were drunk, our friends’ story of the hippo which came out of the river right by their tent was told and dinner was served on the covered wooden deck, in case of rain; tuna mousse, chicken in satay sauce with chive mash and vegetables plus dessert – all delicious – not bad at all for the middle of the jungle.

Next morning saw us up at 7:00am for breakfast before setting off for an all-day safari. Once again the giraffe and impala were much in evidence together with water buck. Eric suggested a stop for coffee and to our surprise unfolded a table, laid it with a cloth and arranged coffee things and flapjack for us to help ourselves – how incredibly civilised. This stop was by the river so we were entertained by cavorting hippos as well as birds, too numerous to mention.

For the remainder of the day we continued our drive, taking in the somewhat unpleasant sight of vultures squabbling over the remains of a giraffe, monitor lizards, warthogs, zebra, kudu, baboons, vervet monkeys and eland. Our civilized lunch stop in the middle of nowhere saw us tucking into pizza and a variety of salads, all washed down with local beer. After lunch, more of everything, especially elegant giraffes, mongooses, baboons and birds galore.

Back to camp for sundowners, then dinner of Moroccan lamb by candlelight in the (at that point) dry riverbed. We were told that lions and elephant sometimes came into the camp at night and our friends saw a jackal as they were being escorted from their tent to dinner, but apart from that, all was quiet.

Up again at 7am for a nice spicy omelette and the long drive to Msembe at the far end of the park. Plenty to see en route including a tortoise about the size of a domestic one just wandering across the track. Down here, it was much drier with less vegetation and we hoped to see lions, for which the area is well known. We weren’t disappointed. Shortly after an encounter with a very angry bull elephant from which Eric raced away with all the speed that the safari truck could muster, we sighted two male lions. They just wandered along for a while then disappeared but were a majestic sight, nonetheless. After that, we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a serval cat, which is rare indeed and some rock hyrax playing amongst, yes you’ve guessed it, rocks!

Lunchtime saw us once again overlooking a river, enjoying another picnic and watching a lone elephant trudging along to rejoin his herd. It was a long trek back to camp so we didn’t stop for much on the way, although we did hear an elephant trumpeting in the trees beside the track and shortly afterwards we had to stop, with some trepidation, to change a punctured tyre. The evening beer was more than welcome after a long day bouncing around in a truck but the rain prevented another dinner in the riverbank which was now by no means dry!

Next morning, after a leisurely breakfast and loaded with the packed lunch that was pressed upon us, we boarded our flight for the Selous Game Reserve for the second part of our safari.

nts prefer not to take their kids to countries on the Asian and African continents on account of the hot climates and infections. But South Africa is excluded from this list – no wonder that around the world calls Cape Town the “Tourist Mecca”. South Africa and particularly the city of Cape Town, is totally different from all its African neighbouring countries. The country resembles Europe, in many aspects. Even with weather. The South African climate is very mild, pleasant in summer and autumn. In Cape Town the weather is even rather cool in spring and in winter one can see snow on some mountains. As in the southern hemisphere, the seasons of the year are opposite to the northern hemisphere and European seasons. The South African summer is from December till March. Famous personalities, businessmen, artists, singers, writers, people of a high rank, prefer to invest in properties in Cape Town. Elite villas on the coast, in the most prestigious areas, are awaiting for their owners on long hoildays and Xmas. Cape Town is an ideal place to come with children – there are enormous varieties of all kinds of activities for tourists. Huge amounts are being spent every year to make Cape Town even a better ‘tourist attraction’ – so even if you visited Cape Town a few years ago, this time you will find many new possibilities for an active holiday. For the whole family, for all ages from young to old. For example, Cape Town’s Disneyland – Ratanga Junction – South African park of Amusement. All kind of amusing rides, fantastic shows with snakes, birds. Music and light shows for the youth. Food stalls and restaurants are everywhere, halaal and kosher meals are also available at Ratanga Junction. In Cape Town you will be able to enjoy a trip above the city on famous African helicopters. One can only imagine what amazing photos can be made from above – worthy of international magazines! If you are in Cape Town, then a visit to the famous Table Mountain is a Must. For tourists’ convenience you can chose between personal hike (that will take you 2-3 hours to reach the top) or use the comfortable cable-car. 2 minutes and you will be exposed to a breath-taking views – city, ocean, mountains, exotic plants, You will need few a hours to explore the beauty of Table Mountain. And to spend sunset in the cafeteria on Table Mountain is very romantic and memorable indeed. In a just couple of hours drive from Cape Town you can visit the great Congo Caves, crocodile, ostrich and rabbit farms… Have you ever dreamt to ride on ostriches? In South Africa it is possible and you will be welcome under trained guide supervision. Moreover, there one can purchases unique items from ostrich and crocodile skin at a very affordable price. To expose children, especially in their teens, to the beauty and adventures of Cape Town is very rewarding! Youth are fond of extreme sensations that make their holidays unforgettable. Youths’ interest for adventures and exotic leasure can be fulfilled in the Aquarium – watching shark’s feeding! And tourist are even allowed to dive in this Aquarium. This is a worthwhile entertainment for brave adults as well. If you happen to have an official diver’s certificater, you can get a life-time experience and visit islands of ancient sunken ships. Otherwise, again as I mentioned above, visit an Aquarium – it is much more than just an educational trip or sensational show. Find yourself in a world, a miraculous underwater world of amazing fish and sea creatures, all colours, all kinds… And the highlight of this visit, indeed, a great white shark! Just imagine, behind the thickest glass in the world you will meet face to face with great white shark! One other detail, rather moral lesson, you will learn in Aquarium – near the exit you will see a big note “The most dangerous predator in the world” – and you will see yourself, in a large mirror. If you and your kids always wished to go on safari in Africa, then in South Africa your dreams will come true. One of the most important tourist destinations is the Kruger National Park where you will be exposed to the world of wild animals. What an experience – your adrenaline will rise high, your heart will tremble when the leopards, and even giant lions and elephants will walk just a few meters from your car. Just be careful – during the whole trip in Kruger Park stay inside and don’t open your windows. The are too many adventures for active holidays in South Africa. It will fill you and your family with energy and memories for years to come! In spite of all this, some parents choose to go on their own and to leave the children at home. Without any doubt, it cannot necessarily be a wise decision? By leaving your children with grannies or nannies, you deprive them not only of unforgettable entertainment but also harmonious development.

Like a meandering river, slowly majestically winding its way in a round about route to its final destination. Every drop not knowing where it’s going until it arrives and after arrival there is every trace of its journey mingled into every atom.

This is what happens when you go on those glorious and relaxing country drives whether it is with a picnic or just stopping in route there is nothing better than soaking up all that the country side has to offer.

When country side is mentioned, the image that comes to mind is of beautiful emerald green hills and soft cloudy days. This is a fantasy the country side is alive and vibrant with textures and hews that dazzle the eyes, diversity that’s as unique as an abstract oil painting and beauty that takes your breath away.

In this article I’ll include some of the more interesting drives in each of the provinces in South Africa with a slight overview of what each drive entails.

Gauteng:

The Magaliesberg Circular is a 200km circular route which encompasses the Witwatersrand botanical garden, Krugersdorp, Krugersdorp Game Reserve, The Sterkfontein caves, Rhino Park, hekpoort valley and the Magaliesberg and Hartebeespoort Dam.

The Crocodile ramble route which includes Croc City crocodile farm.

Limpopo:

Soutpansberg birding route, for all those birding enthusiast and nature lovers. The route includes Eastern Limpopo River valley, Eastern Soutpansberg, Kruger national park, North Western Flats, North Eastern Venda and the South Western Flats.

Ribbola Open Africa Route, for lovers of African curious such as arts and crafts.

Rixile Open Africa Route, a slow meandering route with mind blowing scenery and unbelievable cultural experiences.

Zoutpansberg skirmishes route, a definite must for those who adore history. Follow the last days of the Anglo-Boer war in the Zoutpansberg.

Mpumalanga:

Cosmos country route, although this area is one of the biggest mining areas in South Africa, it suddenly bursts with pink and white when the cosmos flowers open in late summer. Some points of interest are that it is home to the big five and is the only area in the world that makes petrol out of coal.

The wild frontier route boasting discoveries of some of the oldest life on earth. The area in which the route takes place is also known as the cradle of life and home to the historic towns of Barberton, Badplaas, Komatipoort and Kaapmuiden. The Mkonja Mountain range is considered of the oldest in the world with its immense and imposing beauty.

The Panorama is a route of what can only be said, eye candy. Its beautiful backdrops and natural scenery draws tourists by the hoards and is generally just one of the most amazing places to visit. It is home to places like Gods window and the world’s third biggest green canyon, Bourke’s luck potholes which are formed by the meandering river, and lastly of the 3 rondawels.

Lowveld Legogote is a route where you can find the oldest dolomite caves, Sudwala Caves, in the world, a botanical garden that boasts an African rain forest and what is considered as some of the oldest living plants species in the world, the cycads.

Highlands Meander boasts some of the sub continents rarest bird species, rock climbing, extravagant wild flowers and the fly fishing Mecca of South Africa. This route is definitely meant for those who have a great love of nature.

The cultural Heartland route is one of those routes where you can immerse yourself in the culture of the area, the Ndebele, and experience life in the Homesteads of the people. Within the route you can also learn more about the Boer war and enjoy some of the best that nature has to offer.

The grass and wetlands route, a bird watchers paradise, historian’s playground and nature lover’s escapade. This route boasts the largest freshwater lake in South Africa, with a frog watching festival in summer and a star gazing festival in winter. You can also witness a reenactment of the Boer war annually.

Kwazulu Natal:

Apart from beautiful coastlines and vibrant city life the Kwazulu Natal countryside is exquisitely beautiful.

The midlands meander is an arts and crafts route that was started in 1985. The main aim of the route is to bring people inland for a bit and to show the master craftsman at their best. Apart from arts and crafts you can also experience incredible lush scenery, beautiful towns and even a Botanical Garden in Pietermaritzburg.

The battlefields route boasts the largest concentration of battlefields in South Africa and goes out of its way to show visitors how South Africa was shaped and how South Africa also rocked Europe to its core. But apart from battlefields you can enjoy a wonderful sub tropical climate, beautiful scenery and wildlife galore.

The KZN Zululand route gives visitors a unique view of the life, culture and history of the Zulu People and shows how from a minor tribe of the Eastern Nguni people it became a powerhouse to be reckoned with. 

The Free State:

Although this area has no formal routes it has some incredible scenery and a lot to see. The scenery changes from open grass lands to exquisitely weathered Sandstone hills. It is abound with surprising picturesque valleys and has some definite highlights such as the Golden gate national park, Harrismith, Ficksburg (cherry capital of the country), Clocolan (the centre of SA’s asparagus production), and Fouriesberg (with stunning scenery and beautiful game and national parks).

Northwest:

Although with out formal routes this is a land of bountiful splendor with loads of entertainment. Here you can visit places like Lichtenberg, which was the scene of the last truly great diamond rush. The gold mining town of Klerksdorp. Pochefstroom with its incredible university and learning centers. If you want to take in a bit of fun and entertainment then why not visit Sun City and the Pielansberg national park where the most successful game stocking ventures, coined operation genesis, in South Africa took place. Sun City has everything from Casino’s, game rides, crocodile farm, golf course (where incidentally the Nedbank Million Dollar takes place) and hotels to beautiful scenery and exquisite luxury. The North West is also an agricultural hub with rolling maize and grain fields and much more produce to be found.

Northern Cape Routes:

Augrabies route is a sub-Saharan route with all the splendor of a dessert. Witness how animals survive extreme temperature fluctuations from up to 45 degrees Celsius in summer to below zero temperatures at nigh in winter and sometimes in summer to.

Kalahari Red dunes routes, for nature lovers. Witness the game, bird life and other wildlife while traveling over the rust red dunes of the Kalahari.

Kamiesberg Route is where you can find some incredible rock formations, fascinating plant life and all the wildlife you’d ever want to see. Hire a vehicle with air conditioning as temperatures can get stifling.

Richtersfeld route, ever wanted to see the moon? Well this route come close to it with its desert and rocky mountainous landscape.

Western Cape:

Cape Karoo route, if you’re looking for great contrasts and incredible beauty then this is it. The route takes you through famous towns such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, mountainous scenery with contrasts of lush Winelands and semi arid desert.

There are also many routes in and around Cape Town. From the North, South, East, West and central routes to further ranging routes such as the Winelands route and whale route with each route offering its own special bit of scenery, history and beauty.

The Cape Garden Route is a beautiful route that is approximately 800km’s long. It boasts a landscape of forests, mountains, water and fynbos, hence its name. The best part of the trip is that the route is largely untouched by industry so the natural wonder is immense. The trip will normally take about 4 days but you can make it as long or as short as you want to. 

The Cape Town route 62 is characterized by open area and mountainous scenery. It is an inland route that stretches about 600km’s and is filled with diversity and beauty. It is also known as the world’s longest wine route going through most of the central wine growing areas such as Paarl, Tulbach, Wellington and many more.

The Cape West Coast route. Do you enjoy your fresh seafood, beautiful flowers and much more then the West coast route is perfect for you. Although these 2 items aren’t the only pleasures you’ll find most Cape Town Locals will name them as the biggest attraction of the West coast route. The route stretches for about 600km’s and usually takes about 5 days to complete.

The Cape Whale route is a route of dramatics where you will find or hear about things like the ghost ship the Flying Dutchman which is forever doomed to try and round the Cape bend. You will also see things like the wreck of the Birkenhead where the nautical tradition of woman and children first began. Considered to be South Africa’s most scenic and interesting drive, the route stretches for about 400km’s and will take you about 2 days to complete.

Eastern Cape:

Tsitsikama Falls Adventure Park, this is a route which leads you back into the garden route and is home to the highest commercial bungee jump in the world (standing at 216m), the highest narrow gauge bridge in the world, South Africa’s first natural marine park and South Africa’s first tree top canopy tour. Tractor rides and horse trails will astonish you with tours into the heart of the forest.

The Kouga Route, here you can drive along routes with pastoral scenery, beautiful seashell beaches and natural wilderness with national and game parks. The route goes past Jeffrey’s bay which holds the annual Gunston 500 (also known as the Mr Price surf classic), St Francis and nearby Cape St Francis where you will witness things such as whale watching surfing and angling. Along the route you can also see rock art or the place where Khoi San Sarah Baartman has been reburied. The story of Sarah Baartman is that in the 1800’s she was deported to Europe where she was put on as a living specimen of native Southern Africa. People were intrigued by the big bottoms and coloring of the people. After her death she was preserved and housed in France and eventually after years of negotiating she was bought back to South Africa and given a traditional burial.

Sundays River Valley route, from beautiful Citrus farms to an elephant park. This route will show you everything from white dunes, lakes and thorny bushveld. The biggest attraction being the Addo Elephant Park which incorporates a 120000ha marine reserve. It is the first park that introduces the big 7 which are lion, buffalo, rhino, elephant, leopard, Southern right whale and Great white sharks.

The Sunshine coast route is found within 45km’s of the city centre of Port Elizabeth. It has a lot to offer, nature reserves with forests and cape fynbos regions, exquisite beaches, picnic areas, place where you can safely swim, dolphin and whale sightings and rock pools. You can also visit the popular Sacramento Shipwreck which occurred in 1647 at Schoenies.

The frontier Country route. A distinct feature of this trail is that it has arid farms that have been saved and turned into big 5 game reserves. The history of the area is incredible as it is the place where the British fought their longest and most expensive frontier wars.  You can visit many towns along the route such as Grahamstown which is known as the city of saints because of the occurrence of its numerous churches.

Karoo heartland route. Sometimes referred to as God’s own Cathedral the heart of Karoo boasts open arid plains with vast dolomite spires that’s shadow barely touches sides. A place where 9000 different plant species have adapted to living in the harshest conditions and the only other distiller of tequila outside of Mexico can be found here. Here the spirit is called Algave spirit.

The Friendly N6 route which is set of the beaten track is ideal for outdoor activities. Activities on offer are fly fishing in cold trout streams, hiking on beautiful mountain trails, skiing at the only ski resort in Southern Africa, viewing San rock art and reviving in natural hot springs. Guest farms also boast beautiful conical hills, white rhino, horse riding, hiking and much more.

Amathole Mountain escape. For the adventurous souls or for those just seeking peace and solitude then this is perfect for you. You have abseiling, mountain bike riding, hiking, fly fishing and much more. The setting will take your breath away with majestic, forested mountain slopes and that fresh air that tucks you in at night.

The Wild Coast route is one for the ancestors. Here you can really get back to your routes with untouched and undeveloped lands and a host of activities. Activities include but are not restricted to hiking, horse trails, cliff jumping, salt water fly fishing, canoeing, water sports such as surfing, scuba diving and all the good things in life. For those interested in history then come and see where Nelson Mandela lived most of his free life and find out more about this great visionary leader at the Nelson Mandela museum.

 

For all these routes you will need different car type requirements please don’t hesitate to contact us at www.southafrica-carhire.com for a no obligation quote on a car to suite your needs for the time you’re here.   

This enchanting Kenya Island is commonly referred to as the world’s sleepy village, probably the oldest African living town. Lamu has retained its charm and character built over centuries and most recently declared by the United Nations as a world heritage site.

 

The Portuguese invaded Lamu in the 1500s and Kenya only became independent in 1963 and until the 19th century slave trade, timber and spice export was Lamu’s economic pillar, now tourism plays a huge role. The beauty of Lamu is that there are presently no cars in the island, every man owns a donkey, the one without is commonly referred to as one.

 

Lamu is amazingly away and forgotten from the modern outside world there is no better place to be if you ‘really’ need to get away. Especially after that Kenya safaris experience.

 

Children and women sit and play quietly in the narrow street that reminds one of the old Zurich town. All houses have a rooftop which is used as a patio indicative of a society where ‘hanging back’ and ‘catching the breeze’ is very important.

 

A one hour scheduled flight from Nairobi land you at Manda island then a 10 minutes boat ride gets you to either Lamu town or shella village. Both are very accommodative, the locals will smile and waive to welcome all in coming visitors and the homely feeling immediately sets in.

First class comfortable hotels are spread out thought the island, private three or four bedroom homes are popular to many families or friends wishing to have some privacy, for approx US$ 200 per day, you get a beach front private 3 beadroom house, comes with a cook and cleaner, give it a try at The Banana house.

If you are looking for mid range or budget options, there is plenty to choice from, as almost every traditional storey building is now bed and breakfast hotels.

Kizingo lodge the one of the most fascinating of all, someone should announce to the world that this is one undiscovered romance paradise. A middle aged couple who just spent five night at Kizingo wrote to me saying, ’I’ve promised that if any of the kids ever decide to get married I’ll pay for a fortnight at Kizingo. If you haven’t been there, you should go!’

 

Located on a 12 kilometer beautifully deserted beach on the southern tip of Lamu or 30 minutes ride from town, this small bare feet rustic lodge has six spacious bandas all lined up on the sea front, actually built on the sandy beach, flush toilets, solar heated fresh water, large verandah with a swinging hammock as just but some of the facilities. – It’s a natural, peaceful beautiful place you will want to wake up from each morning to catch that great sunrise and the annually cerebrated full moon. Swim with dolphins, dive and visit the local village and market place on a bike or just walk it – sa great spot to relax.

 

From your roof top don’t miss the sunset and the undisturbed dhows sailing into dock as fishermen arrive with loads for fresh fish to be distributed across the island.

 

If you are caught up in the Maulindi and full moon festivals just get rid of your shoes, dance and sing along – just say what they say, it all means well and again ‘Swahili’ is very polite and the most celebrated language in Africa.

 

Whist at Lamu also keeps an eye out for the intricately carved wooden doors and lintels for which the island is famous. I bet I saw a foreign couple ship a door back home, yes! They just… DHL I’d it, somehow!

 

 

If you have ever considered a trip to the mysterious and beautiful land of Africa, an African safari may be a trip for you to look into. The first step in planning one of these amazing adventures is to collect a few Africa safari brochures that can give you information about the different types of safaris available, including the accommodations, the types of day and nighttime treks and the services that are included.

There are Africa safari brochures that will cover just about any area for travel, as well as most of the different types of tours that are available. The brochures usually come with full-color photos of the types of scenery and wildlife that you can expect to see on your holiday, as well as plenty of information that will help you to select and plan for your journey.

Where to Find an Africa Safari Brochure

You can find this information at a travel agent who specializes in these types of vacations, or you can click onto the Internet to explore the various websites that are available. One sight that offers a lot of valuable information is called all-holiday-brochures(.)com. This site offers information on a number of different types of tours in many areas of Africa, and even allows you to view the brochures online before ordering.

Many of the brochures listed are available free of charge. There are also links that allow you to purchase books that will give you additional information about the areas that you are interested in. This is a great sight to browse if you are in the beginning stages of planning your excursion, and want to check out some Africa safari brochures.

Additional information can also be found on a variety of websites for the many travel agencies and tour companies that work directly with the African regions. These sites can give you the same type of information that a printed Africa safari brochure can, including lodging facts, preparation tips and many colored photos that will help you to visualize your adventure.

Depending on the tour company that you select, you can find information about the area itself that you are headed towards, the culture and wildlife or the region, and choices in tours and types of lodging that are offered. This information will help you to plan your safari holiday with location, comfort and budget in mind.

An African safari is often considered to be the vacation of a lifetime. Why not collect a few Africa safari brochures and other types of information so that you can plan the most satisfactory holiday for you and your family?