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  • Where to Spend Christmas in Africa

    Where to Spend Christmas in Africa

    Spending a Christmas holiday in Africa can be full of surprises.  Whereas the eastern part of Africa can be very hot as it is near or along the equator, the other parts such as the north, south, and Indian Ocean islands offer great weather and dazzling landscapes.

    Classic Egypt Holiday

    Due to its proximity to Europe, a lot of Europeans visit Egypt during the Christmas holidays every year. A flight from London to Cairo only takes around five hours while a flight from New York lasts for almost twelve hours.

    Christmas in Egypt is a great experience.  Egypt offers great weather and excellent hotels at modest prices. This is the best time of the year for sightseeing as it’s not too hot.  The cold months in Egypt are from November to February with January being the coldest.

    Christmas in Egypt combines a traditional holiday with its rich culture and history.  Who wouldn’t want to see the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings in real-life on a 10-night Classic Egypt holiday?

    For many years, Egypt has been a popular destination for foreign tourists especially during the Christmas holidays. Recent political troubles, which led to the removal from power of President Mubarak, have somewhat discouraged tourists from visiting Egypt, but now tour operators are giving great discounts and business owners are bringing prices down to attract tourists in the hope of bringing the tourism industry back to its original level. So, now could be the best time to spend your Christmas holidays in Egypt.

    Family Safaris in South Africa

    South Africa is a perfect destination for families: it is malaria free, there are lots of good accommodations, and the weather is great.

    South Africa with its rich wildlife, flora and fauna is famous for its wide choice of safaris.  You’ll find that the variety of birds and animals you will see means that your safari in South Africa will be money well spent.

    South African safaris vary from standard to exclusive and luxurious, from private to self-drive to escorted, and from three days to 21 days duration.

    Some self-drive safaris allow you to explore Cape Town and the Garden Route.  This is usually a 13 to 15 day safari where you will have the time to explore Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, and the Amakhala Game Reserve.

    To maximize the enjoyment of your safari in South Africa, you can request a tailor-made safari for your family. This is, of course, based on your budget and length of stay.

    Dream Beach Holiday in Mauritius

    Mauritius is only a few hours away by air so you need have no fear of jet lag.  The country offers great hotels, with many resorts offering free kids’ clubs.

    Mauritius has lots of beaches where both individuals and families can spend a holiday.  All these beaches are white coral sand and temperatures range from 23 to 29 degrees Celsius all year round.

    Beachgoers will always find a beach to their liking.  Those who are into water sports can enjoy Flic en Flac, Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, and Le Morne Peninsula.  People who love to stay in a secluded place can stay at the Belle Mare or on Île aux Cerfs.  Families can spend time together at the Trox aux Biches and also on Île aux Cerfs.

    Those who would like to strike a balance between the beauty of a beach and the city atmosphere will definitely love Grand Baie.

    Christmas with your family on one of the beaches in Mauritius will definitely provide you with a memorable holiday!

  • West Africa’s 5 Best Surfing Spots

    The African continent has many possibilities for a holiday, with the spectacular landscapes of Southern Africa, the Safaris in East Africa and yet to be really well developed Northern Africa, whereas West Africa is still not so popular with tourists. The greatest attraction of West Africa lies in its location, as it faces the Atlantic to the west and that is a major plus point which other places in Africa don’t have.  It is thus a hidden treasure for surf enthusiasts!

    There are five specific spots where one can go for surfing in West Africa: The Alamdies and N’Gor Island in Senegal, Ponta Prenta in Cape Verde, Busua in Ghana and Rosbertsport in Liberia.

    Senegal: The Almadies and N’Gor Island

    Almadies Peninsula, on the outskirts of the Capital Dakar, is a favourite with surfers who come straight to this place. It is the westernmost tip of Africa that juts out into the Atlantic and is one of the most important swell windows of the world which appear from the SE and taking an almost 2600 turn all around the peninsula go to the North. It is easy for you to go across to most of the favourite surfing places as they are very closely located within walking distance of each other.

    N’Gor Island is an attractive spit of land and has cobbled streets, restaurants, bars and beaches and many surf camps. In 1964, two persons from California first brought surfing to West Africa in this area while filming the surf travel movie Endless Summer. A surf camp with the same name as that of the movie shot is located here and caters to international surf tourists. The waves at Virage or Yoff beach are gentler and so the place is good for beginners. Beginners can also take lessons in surfing from Tribal Surf Shop in Virage.

    Cape Verde: Ponta Prenta on Sal Island

    Cape Verde archipelago has a strategic location in the mid Atlantic and is one of the best surfing destinations in the world where there are plenty of well established surfing camps. Both amateurs and experts have enough to prompt them to keep coming back here for more.

    Ponta Preta lies west of Santa Maria and is an exposed reef and point break that that has pretty consistent surf. It is accessible by a remote road which is functional only for sometime during the year. It is surrounded by rocky ledges and is a Reef break so that it makes for a good surfing area. Some experienced surfers even compare it to the Hawaiian pipeline. In fact winters is the time favoured by surfers when it gets the greatest wave breaks. Fine surfing waves are formed by off shore winds and Atlantic wind swells.

    Santa Maria is the place to hire surf boards, besides jeeps can also be hired there to reach for the best wave breaks.

    It is a major wave surfing destination and Josh Anglulo the Hawaiian 2009 PWA Wave World Champion, who has done much to promote windsurfing in the archipelago, has now settled in Cape Verde.

    In Ghana: Busua

    The topography of Ghana’s coastline is a mix of beaches and coral reefs which is why Ghana is a superb surfing destination. Ghana, located on the Gulf of Guinea, only a few degrees north of the equator has a warm tropical climate. Busua is a coastal town that boasts of a variety of hotel accommodation, small seafood restaurants, and a long sandy beach that is clean and safe for water sports. You’ll find there a “Black Star Surf Club” at the beach. The surf camp has relaxing and attractive accommodations and there are many entertainment options and group activities too on the beach that make your stay very enjoyable. Although surfing is a new activity in Ghana, the team of experienced instructors at surf camp provide surfing lessons with good results. The training is in keeping with your level of skills and the instructors help to improve your surfing ability no matter whether you are a beginner or advanced learner.

    In Liberia: Robertsport

    Robertsport is a place in western Liberia, located 50km north of Liberia’s capital Monrovia. The landscape is green with undulating hills, large plantation style houses that remind you of the southern part of America. The town can be approached by road, aptly described as ‘the best dirt road in the country’ and is considered as the best unknown West African surf spot (in season).

    It is a town mostly inhabited by fishermen and farmers. Of late there have been a small but growing number of world class surfers from other countries who have heard about this spot and are helping to develop the area as a surfers’ delight besides some self taught locals who frequent the spot to enjoy surfing on the waves. There is nothing more than the basics on offer. It is typically a page out of Adventures of Robinson Crusoe with surfers’ tents pitched under a large cottonwood tree and meals in barbeque style on an open fire or lives in Nana’s lodge which offers raised wood floored structures.

  • The Best of Rwanda’s Tourism

    There are several unique tourism activities to do in Rwanda; this country is long past its war torn days and now it’s one of safest countries visited in Africa. You will feel the real true African country with lots of unique attractions which have attracted many safari tours to Rwanda. This country is extremely small and there is one unique thing about this small country, this is gorilla trekking which is done in volcanoes National park and it has raised increased revenues for the country.
    There is the Kigali city which is in the heart of Rwanda, this gorgeous city with great weather can get you taste the history here through visiting the genocide memorials and here you will learn about the turbulent past of this country. You will also have a chance to visit the different local markets which are found in the city as well as the art facts and the craft shops which are found within the city. These have also attracted many safaris to Rwanda.

    Thinking about Rwanda makes you come close to the mountain gorillas and these can be spotted in volcanoes National park which is found some few kilometers from Kigali city. You will enjoy a very unique experience taking Rwanda Gorilla adventure, take this advantage and experience the largest group of gorillas when you come for a safari . Gorilla trekking can also be carried out in Uganda and the Democratic Republic Congo.

    Rwanda has also got three national parks and these include; Akagera National park, Nyungwe National park and Volcanoes National park, there are many animal species which can be spotted in these national parks and some of these include; the chimpanzees, bird species, elephants, lions, leopards, and the monkeys. Lake Kivu also makes a border between Rwanda and Congo and it’s a great region where the tourists are safe to visit and swim, you will also visit the safari cities like Kibuye and Gisenyi near DR Congo border.
    The other attractions which are found in Rwanda include; city tours, cultures, bird species and many wild animal species. The Butare is a cultural hub for the country and was once the most important city before 1965. You will also visit the great national museum which will help you explore the great history of Rwanda.

  • 10 Attractions To See in Cape Town

    Cape Town is one of the most scenic place in Africa.  Known as the quintessential melting pot: Cape Town is a city alive with creativity, colour, sounds and tastes. Many travelers who have visited South Africa have fallen in love with the city’s natural beauty, creative freedom and incredible spirit. When visiting this second most populous city in South Africa, be prepared for the unexpected; a surprising experience that you will never forget.

    Here are the top 10 attractions you can’t miss when visiting Cape Town;

    1. Table Mountain

    Table Mountain is arguably the most iconic image of Cape Town. Standing at the top should top everyone’s list of ‘things to do before you die’. Take the leisurely route in the slowly revolving cable car, or alternately hike to the top. Either way you won’t regret it when you get to enjoy the sight of Cape Town and surrounds from the Table top!

    2. V & A Waterfront

    Situated at the Cape Town Harbour basin, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the most popular venue in Cape Town. With a wide variety of shops, numerous restaurants and cafes, wine bars, sites of historical and cultural interest and local craft workshops, you’ll never have a dull moment here, day or night.

    3. Wine Farms

    From the farms of Constantia in the southern suburbs to the expansive estates of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franshoek, the Cape boasts some of the most beautiful wine farms in the world. And it’s a well known fact that they produce some of the finest wines in the world too! A visit to Cape Town is incomplete without at least one day spent on the wine route, sampling fine wines, learning about the history and methodology of wine making from the experts, enjoying a sumptuous lunch along the way and coming back laden with some great purchases for the cellar back home.

    4. Robben Island

    Site of former president Nelson Mandela’s prison cell where he was confined for many years prior to his historical release, Robben Island has a very special atmosphere. Take a ferry from the Waterfront and learn from the guided tours about the other men who shared the Island with Madiba, and about the incredible man himself.

    5. Cape Point

    Who wouldn’t want to say they have stood at the tip of the great African continent? Once inside the reserve you can make your way to the main parking area and stroll up the wide paths to the top lookout point. From here the view is breathtaking – sheer cliffs drop to the crashing waves far below while azure waters spread out as far as the eye can see to a hazy horizon. On a clear day, you really can see forever! Enjoy lunch at the excellent restaurant or drive to one of the sheltered beaches for a picnic.

    6. Boulder’s Beach Penguin Colony

    Home of a colony of so-called ‘Jackass’ Penguins (so named for the donkey-like braying sound they make) Boulder’s Beach is situated just past Simon’s Town. Apart from great penguin viewing, the beach is picturesque and great for families with its sheltered bay.

    7. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

    These beautiful gardens at the foot of Table Mountain were established in 1913. The gardens only grow indigenous South African plants, and cover an area of 528 hectares. Picnic on the green lawns next to bubbling streams, or take advantage of a guided tour.

    8. Top Stones Gemstone Factory and Scratch Patch

    Visit one of the Top Stone Gemstone Factories at Glen Cairn or the Waterfront, for a sparkling and enchanting experience. At the Glen Cairn factory you can view the stones being washed polished and crafted into curios or jewelry. Trawl through the walk-in Scratch Patch ‘caves’ and select your own treasures to take home.

    9. Two Oceans Aquarium

    Located at the V&A Waterfront, this is South Africa’s largest aquarium. It has great exhibitions and a strong educational component. The shark feeding times are always popular with visitors who love to get a close up view of these awesome creatures without getting wet!

    10. District Six Museum

    Back in the 1960’s the apartheid government demolished the District Six neighborhoods, displacing the residents. Of all the museums to see in Cape Town, this memorial to the glory days and tragic history of District Six is one of the most interesting and colourful.

  • 10 Attractions To See in Cape Town

    Cape Town is one of the most scenic place in Africa.  Known as the quintessential melting pot: Cape Town is a city alive with creativity, colour, sounds and tastes. Many travelers who have visited South Africa have fallen in love with the city’s natural beauty, creative freedom and incredible spirit. When visiting this second most populous city in South Africa, be prepared for the unexpected; a surprising experience that you will never forget.

    Here are the top 10 attractions you can’t miss when visiting Cape Town;

    1. Table Mountain

    Table Mountain is arguably the most iconic image of Cape Town. Standing at the top should top everyone’s list of ‘things to do before you die’. Take the leisurely route in the slowly revolving cable car, or alternately hike to the top. Either way you won’t regret it when you get to enjoy the sight of Cape Town and surrounds from the Table top!

    2. V & A Waterfront

    Situated at the Cape Town Harbour basin, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the most popular venue in Cape Town. With a wide variety of shops, numerous restaurants and cafes, wine bars, sites of historical and cultural interest and local craft workshops, you’ll never have a dull moment here, day or night.

    3. Wine Farms

    From the farms of Constantia in the southern suburbs to the expansive estates of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franshoek, the Cape boasts some of the most beautiful wine farms in the world. And it’s a well known fact that they produce some of the finest wines in the world too! A visit to Cape Town is incomplete without at least one day spent on the wine route, sampling fine wines, learning about the history and methodology of winemaking from the experts, enjoying a sumptuous lunch along the way and coming back laden with some great purchases for the cellar back home.

    4. Robben Island

    Site of former president Nelson Mandela’s prison cell where he was confined for many years prior to his historical release, Robben Island has a very special atmosphere. Take a ferry from the Waterfront and learn from the guided tours about the other men who shared the Island with Madiba, and about the incredible man himself.

    5. Cape Point

    Who wouldn’t want to say they have stood at the tip of the great African continent? Once inside the reserve you can make your way to the main parking area and stroll up the wide paths to the top lookout point. From here the view is breathtaking – sheer cliffs drop to the crashing waves far below while azure waters spread out as far as the eye can see to a hazy horizon. On a clear day, you really can see forever! Enjoy lunch at the excellent restaurant or drive to one of the sheltered beaches for a picnic.

    6. Boulder’s Beach Penguin Colony

    Home of a colony of so-called ‘Jackass’ Penguins (so named for the donkey-like braying sound they make) Boulder’s Beach is situated just past Simon’s Town. Apart from great penguin viewing, the beach is picturesque and great for families with its sheltered bay.

    7. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

    These beautiful gardens at the foot of Table Mountain were established in 1913. The gardens only grow indigenous South African plants, and cover an area of 528 hectares. Picnic on the green lawns next to bubbling streams, or take advantage of a guided tour.

    8. Top Stones Gemstone Factory and Scratch Patch

    Visit one of the Top Stone Gemstone Factories at Glen Cairn or the Waterfront, for a sparkling and enchanting experience. At the Glen Cairn factory you can view the stones being washed polished and crafted into curios or jewelry. Trawl through the walk-in Scratch Patch ‘caves’ and select your own treasures to take home.

    9. Two Oceans Aquarium

    Located at the V&A Waterfront, this is South Africa’s largest aquarium. It has great exhibitions and a strong educational component. The shark feeding times are always popular with visitors who love to get a close up view of these awesome creatures without getting wet!

    10. District Six Museum

    Back in the 1960’s the apartheid government demolished the District Six neighborhoods, displacing the residents. Of all the museums to see in Cape Town, this memorial to the glory days and tragic history of District Six is one of the most interesting and colourful.

  • 5 Best Places to See Gorillas in Africa

    Most people who go opt to see gorillas always look at visiting Uganda or Rwanda! however there are ten countries where gorillas can be seen in the wild. Here are ten places to see them for yourself.

    1. Rwanda

    Visitor infrastructure: 5/5
    Chance of sighting: 5/5
    Rwanda is a favorite to those looking to seeing the mountain gorillas in the wild. The mountain gorillas live in the Volcanoes National Park located in the northern part of the country.
    Rwanda is a small country in Central Africa, about the size of Wales. The country has developed good main roads (making it quick to get around) and a relatively well-developed infrastructure.  Today it is possible to take a gorilla trek in the park and return to Kigali for an evening night back home.

    The work of Dian Fossey, dramatised in the film Gorillas in the Mist,have really maked Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to be the most people’s first choice for a mountain gorilla safari in Africa. On a hike through the park it is easy to see the relaxed gorillas in a relatively open habitat – montane vegetation, often with stunning views. Rwanda offers more chances of good gorilla watching given that there is less hiking for most gorilla groups if compared with Uganda and the democratic Republic of Congo.

    2. Uganda

    Visitor infrastructure: 5/5
    Chance of sighting: 5/5

    Second in popularity to Rwanda, Uganda has two gorilla parks in the south-west of the country where one can see the mountain gorillas. These are Bwindi Impenetrable national Park and Mgahinga National Park. Travel through the dramatically winding roads and enjoy gorilla tracking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a more biodiverse and at a lower altitude. Bwindi host the largest population of the mountain gorillas and today there are 13 gorilla groups that have been habituated for tourism, and research.

    Mgahinga National Park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, and it has habituated gorilla that freely roam into Rwanda and DRC. However, climbing to the top of Mt Sabinyo, where Rwanda, Uganda and DRC meet, is an outstanding way to see the whole mountain gorilla kingdom – an island of forest surrounded by a sea of densely populated farmland.

    To those looking for wildlife viewing, of Uganda’s real plus points is the range of other activities on offer: combine your gorilla tracking with the country’s other national parks on selfdrive and adventurous activities, from hiking the glaciers in the Rwenzori Mountains to white-water rafting on the Nile.

    3. Congo

    Visitor infrastructure: 2/5
    Chance of sighting: 4/5

    Often called Congo Brazzaville, Congo offers the travelers with the best choice to see the western lowland gorillas. However the country got a setback in 2002 with the loss of the habituated Lossi gorillas to Ebola. Today the nearby Odzala National Park offers one of the best options for seeing the Western lowland gorillas in Africa. There are two habituated family groups that can be seen by visitors. There are hides at  Bais from where you can watch the gorillas in the open clearings in the forest.

    4. Central African Republic

    Visitor infrastructure: 2/5
    Chance of sighting: 4/5

    For long Central African Republic has been one of the best places to see the western lowland gorillas. However with the emergence of political instablity in the country, tourism development has been affected in the country. One of the best places to track the western lowland gorillas is the Bai-Hokou in the Dzanga-Ndoki National Park. The WWF project succeeded in habituating a gorilla group for viewing and a calm contact is likely, though the dense forest and low light beneath the canopy make photography challenging.

    5. Democratic Republic of Congo

    Visitor infrastructure: 1/5 (Western Lowland Gorilla), 3/5 (Eastern Lowland Gorilla and Mountain Gorilla)
    Chance of sighting (security permitting): 1/5 (WLG), 3/5 (ELG), 5/5 (MG)

    Three of the four sub-species of gorillas are found in the Democratic Republic of Congo (former Zaire). Gorilla tourism started in the md-1970s with habituation of several gorilla groups in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a stronghold of eastern lowland gorillas. This park still offers one of the best gorilla-viewing experiences to visitors yo Africa. Bukavu is the nearest town (with some beautiful lakeside hotels), but its is advisable to check the security situation. You can enter the DRC easily from Gisenyi in Rwanda via la corniche (Goma) and Kisoro in Uganda.

    Mountain gorilla tourism in the Virunga National Park is also excellent. Though this was hampered by the existence of the M23 Rebels in the park, today the park is open for gorilla tourism after the surrender of these rebels to UN backed Congolese Army in 2012. However, even during the troubles many people visited the gorillas at Djomba on day trips from Kisoro, Uganda, because permits were available in the DRC and sold out in Uganda. Take advice on the spot – it can change from one week to the next.

    Some western lowland gorillas survive in the far west of DRC in the beautiful Madiakoko Mountains, Bas-Congo, crossing back and forth from Cabinda (Angola), but you’d be a pioneer tourist here.

  • Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Vs Rwanda

    Many travelers are always faced with the problem of choosing which country to visit to see the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. Mountain gorillas are found in 3 countries in Africa; Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However there are the two countries that are considered to be the best places for gorilla trekking; Uganda or Rwanda.

    Cost:

    Gorilla permits in Rwanda have recently (as of 2014) increased to $1500 per person. They are $700 per person in Uganda. The permit gets you an hour of time spent with the gorillas with an 8 person group. If you buck at the price think of it this way. You are contributing to the preservation of gorillas and as a “thank you” you get to spend an hour with them. Remember only 80 people a day get to see them and their habitat is very fragile. Every time you walk through the forest you are leaving a footprint.

    Ease of Access: Rwanda provides the easiest access to gorilla trekking so it is your best option if you are combining it with a safari to Kenya or Tanzania or if you only have a few days. The town of Ruhengeri, the jumping off point for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, is only a few hours’ drive on excellent roads from the capital (and its international airport) Kigali. Seeing gorillas in Uganda is more of a process and involves an 8-10 hour drive from the international airport in Entebbe. I recommend making Uganda a full 8-day trip with stops along the way instead of just a place to see gorillas whereas you could see gorillas in Rwanda in just a few days.

    Trekking Difficulty

    Seeing mountain gorillas can involve 2-4 hours of hiking to find them. In both Uganda and Rwanda this is going to be a long day and the hikes can vary quite a bit depending on where the animals spent the night and which troop you are seeing. That being said, the general experience is that treks in Rwanda are slightly easier while those in Uganda are slightly more strenuous. Again there are no guarantees either way. I have friends who hiked for three hours in Rwanda before finding a troop while my group came across a troop in just over an hour in Uganda. For more information about what to expect (and what to bring) on the day of the trek click here.

    Don’t underestimate the tiring effects of being at high altitude. Trekking takes place 8000-10,000 feet above sea level, not high enough for altitude sickness but high enough to knock the breath out of anybody, no matter how fit, who has just flown in from a low altitude. For this reason, visitors who are spending a while in Rwanda might think seriously about leaving their gorilla tracking until they have been in the country a week or so, and are better acclimatized (most of Rwanda lies at about 5000 feet). Likewise, if you are coming from elsewhere in Africa try to plan your itinerary so that you spend your last pre-trek days at medium to high altitude. For example if you are flying in from Kenya, a few days in Nairobi (7500 feet) or even the Masai Mara (5200 feet) would be far better preparation than time at the coast.

    Better Gorillas: There is no difference. There are 10 habituated troops in Rwanda and 8 in Uganda and they can move freely between the countries so this really doesn’t need to be a consideration. The gorilla trekking system is similar in all countries and because gorillas are followed on a daily basis, a sighting in all the locations is virtually guaranteed.

    So here’s what I would say it comes down to: If you have time and are not looking to do a traditional savannah safari, Uganda is a great option. It is a fabulous country and you can easily spend 8-10 days there.

    If you are in a rush and/or are adding gorilla trekking to a larger safari then you will want to go on a Rwanda gorilla safari which can easily range from a day trip, 2, 3 or 4+ days!

    Where to Stay

    In terms of accommodation, each country offers great places to stay. Here are a few of our recommendations:

    Rwanda

    My favorite luxury accommodation is Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge because it is high up on hill, has great views, cozy rooms with fireplaces and amazing service. I have also visited Virunga Lodge which is a beautiful eco-lodge but an hour’s drive from the trek starting point. When you already have to be up and ready at 6am adding an hour drive to that is not insignificant. For a medium budget the best choice is Mountain Gorilla Lodge. It does not claim to be more than it is but it very convenient and the rooms are quite spacious. For the more modest budget Le Bamboo was perfectly comfortable.

    Uganda

    For Uganda my favorite option is Buhoma Lodge. It is an eco-lodge with a rustic, comfortable feel and is one of two properties actually inside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge is set into a hill with beautiful views of the forest. Probably the most luxurious option in the Bwindi area is Gorilla Forest Camp but this is not one of my favorites because it is quite dark but it is well-designed and has great service. For a modest budget Traveler’s Rest in Kisoro has simple, comfortable rooms and was a frequent stop for Diane Fossey when she traveled through Uganda. It is about an hour’s drive from the Bwindi park gate.

    Mountain Gorillas:

    Been there done that…If you are an experienced Africa traveler and you are looking for a unique and seriously off-the-beaten path experience, then tracking western lowland gorillas in the Republic of Congo might be the perfect adventure for you. Whatever country you choose gorilla trekking is guaranteed to be a moving and life-changing experience.

  • Differences Between Safari Lodges, Motels, Luxurious Hotels and more

    Like me, you’ve probably ever ordered for a particular item in the restaurant just because you were blown away by its name. Filled with hot anticipation for a delicacy with a unique satisfying taste, you smiled the entire time as the waiter left for the kitchen to pick it up. To your dismay, the food’s presentation and taste was the total opposite of what you expected. In a heartbroken tone, you protested to the waiter for a refund, only to be reminded that food once ordered is not returnable. Similarly, it is typical for honeymooners to book up hotels just because it has a fancy name, only to learn the hard way that their pick isn’t their idea of fun.

    Planning to travel around Africa? Here are categorizes of hotel facilities and what to expect of them.

    Safari Lodge

    In countries like Uganda, the word Lodge often pronounced as Lojji conjures the image of structures used as sex dens. Other than their fairly comfortable beds which are intended to facilitate quick erotic affairs, there isn’t much to fancy about these establishments. Most of them are found in settings that harbor drinking bars.

    In contrast to this, a safari lodge is a commercial establishment, located within or near natural habitat rich in fauna and flora, normally in or near conservation areas, in which the majority of clients are leisure or adventure seekers.

    In East Africa, the infrastructural design of most safari lodges is themed along the rich African heritage. Why? To re-connect one with the gallant Africa that existed before they were born. Primarily, they exist to detach one from the hustles and buzz of the city. They are intended to offer one the healing power of nature. As such, they are normally built out of eco-friendly materials that harmonize with the surrounding like thatched roofs, wooden walks and floors made of polished rocks.

    Most of them price their services in currencies used globally, especially the US dollars.

    This arises from that fact that their clientele largely comprises of foreign tourists. However, local currencies equivalent to these rates are equally applicable.

    Most unique feature

    Most safari lodges have eco-toilets (especially those in East Africa). Eco-toilets is a fancy word for latrines with a sitting bowl. They are fashioned to impress and constantly freshened. As such, they are the type one would dine in with a smile.

    Motel

    A motel is commercial establishment, located along a highway or motor way, catering mainly to motorists and other highway road users. The prime objective of a motel is to provide travelers with a comfortable dining and bedding experience as they journey to their destination. Compared to a safari lodge, they feature less amenities and luxuries as they are purposed to just facilitate a brief stopover, not holiday.

    Located en-route roads, especially highways.

    Tented Camp

    It’s a permanent, semi-permanent structures usually located close to or within Eco-attractions inclusive but not limited to beaches, lakes, game reserves or forests.

    It’s a must visit if are hands on person, the type who pleasures in giving a helping hand in organizing a pleasant vacation. Visitors of tented camps are engaged in all aspects of their holiday from the minute they set foot to the time they bid good bye. It could be pitching the tent for a night’s sleep, preparing bush breakfast or just about anything that keeps them busy as opposed to being bossy.

    Tented camps especially the ones found in conservation areas are famed for attracting herbivores especially elephants, warthogs and hippos.

    Most of these (wildlife) come in pursuit for fruits with strong scents like pine apples and bananas—as camping entails cooking outdoor.

    Most unique feature

    Tented Camps boast of fire places set up to facilitate storytelling and bonding. They are equally great spots for roasting foodstuffs, especially plantain and meat.

    Country Hotels

    Hahaha, trust me, you don’t want to come to these facilities at that time of the year when your wallet is constantly yawning. You will do dishes if you insist. I did. But that’s a story for another day. Country Hotels are high-end facilities located in quiet side of metropolitan towns, particularly affluent neighbourhoods. Their target niche comprises of folks with more than enough disposable income. The type who already have enough investments/savings to ferry them through the next five years +.

    Their rates are intentionally structured to attract less crowds. They would rather have a handful of guests who can pay lump sums than many ordinary guests who will ask for a discount on an already given discount.

    It’s the place where politicians meet renowned businessmen to seal multi-million deals financed by tax payers.

    In the Uganda, most country hotels take on the shapes of luxuriant mansions. In the UK most of them are castles, a symbol of nobility.

    Most Unique feature

    The boast of recreational luxuries such as horses, golf courses, helipads. Some have casinos. Their rooms are spacious, well air conditioned and equipped with fully functioning electronics.

    Vacation Hotel

    A profitmaking creation, located within or near a holiday attraction area, normally in sub urban areas. Majority of clients here are holiday makers or leisure travellers. Beach front hotels fall in this category.

    Villas and Cottages

    According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization: Villas and cottages refers to modern home-like buildings, located in sub-urban or country side areas. They are characterized by being autonomous, semidetached or in a cluster of lettable units for holiday accommodation. They may or may not provide full hotel services and facilities. The establishments include residential premises used for holiday making by owners, friends or relatives.

    Serviced Apartments

    These are commercial establishments offering facilities and services like a hotels for Guests staying a few days or weeks.

    They currently represent the trendiest place where to stay for corporate, leisure travellers, people relocating to new cities and those seeking transit accommodations. By nature, they have catering facilities in form of kitchens which offers Guests the flexibility of preparing own meals.

  • East Africa’s White Sand Beaches that will Take Your Breath Away

    If you love sensational White Sand beaches, our adventure menu will spoil you for choice. Here are some of the trending Island destinations of Africa

    Destinations

     7 Wonders of Zanzibar/Stone Town

    Zanzibar is that small Island off Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania’s coastal city. It has been repeatedly ranked among Africa’s Seven Wonders, especially in the category of heritage sites and impressive island destinations. This begs the question: what are Zanzibar’s wonders? Here are seven of it’s city’s legendary attractions that will awaken your sense of wonder. Its name, Stone Town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is more like a museum of well-preserved buildings whose architecture is a mix of Arabic-Indian and African influences. But while museums are usually full of dead exhibits, Zanzibar is full of life and colour. This makes it a perfect holiday getaway.Read More…

    Trending Honeymoon Destinations: Diani Kenya

    Organizing weddings can be very exhausting both physically and mentally. For that, love birds deserve a honeymoon in a peaceful setting with elements that help one recharge their batteries. Diani is one such place. It is a coastal reef where the majestic Indian Ocean meets the land of warrior nomads. This 10 kilometer resort found roughly 30 kilometers South of Mombasa is famed for two things:

    1. For emerging as the Best Beach Destination of 2014 as awarded by World Travel Awards.
    2. For having white sand and lush greenery.

    Here are things to do at this heaven among havens

    Hotels

     Serena Zanzibar, a Beachfront Hotel that will take you breath away

    My honeymoon recommendation for this month goes to this inviting gem of Stone Town…Serena Zanzibar. It is within easy reach from the airport, main gateway to the island, overlooking the majestic Indian Ocean. The Serena is beautifully laid out upon a white sand beach. I would have loved to describe it as a hotel, but something about it is more like a spacious beachfront mansion with a rich history.

  • Ascending to Africa’s Roof top, Kilimanjaro

    Typically, it takes most adventurers 8-9days to conquer Africa’s third highest mountain, Rwenzori (standing at 16,762 ft. above sea level). Having rocked the experience in five days and four nights, I expected to humble Kilimanjaro in a maximum of four days and three nights. See, it is considered to be a smoothie compared to Rwenzori Mountains because it doesn’t require technical hiking skills. Alas! Kilimanjaro instead humbled me before accepting my plea to summit it to its highest peak, Uhuru. However, it was worth it.

    A side view of Kilimanjaro National Park

    29th August 2021, 10:00am. That was the time I and my pals—Joy Mirembe and Jeff Wu set foot on the soft soils of Kilimanjaro National Park—ahead of our hiking expedition. Baba Kilimanjaro, a Tanzanian based Safari Company and mountaineering company is the agency with which we were to accomplish the mission.

    There were two kinds of routes to take. The easy ones, and nerve-wracking types respectively. For having a gradient that can be slayed even by a staggering drunkard, the former as we would learn is nicknamed Coca cola route. In contrast, the latter is cursed as Russian-Gin-route for its utter steepness that leaves many cursing and begging for mercy.

    Day one’s hike takes course in the foresty part of the mountain

    We didn’t want much trouble and thus chose the former. In the start, it was a lazy walk under the woods and over bridges that vented water from as far as the remaining glaciers at the top. The forest was quiet and moist. Being an afternoon though, there weren’t as many birds in sight. However, there were plentiful of gigantic trees to leave us in awe. On the whole, there was nothing tiring about the walk. I guess this was because the caretakers had freed us of the burden of carrying our weighty bags. This help made it effortlessly easy for us to reach the first camp sooner than we had wished (in just three hours). Seated at 2,715 meters above sea level, Mandara was its name. It featured a collection of gorgeous wooden huts well insulated to shelter one from the dropping temperatures of the surrounding rain forest.

    Day 2

    The second day of the excursion was all about journeying through the heather zone and moorland. The height of the trees lessened as we gained altitude. Its footpath was well maintained and thus less challenging to maneuver. Being a dry season, it was dusty. Luckily, the wind was too calm to blow it (dust) in our faces. I couldn’t be happier that the team wasn’t rushing the walk. They were taking it nice and slow. This enabled me make the most of picturesque encounters along the way. Different shades of vegetation and flowers abound like a rainbow across the Kilimanjaro’s open fields.

    From the bottom, the mountain which is hiked by over 50,000 adventurers every year looked like a solid gigantic block. This isn’t what seemed like from the trail. It was a collection of gently sloping hills, some of which used to act as sacrificial alters where the Wachaga tribe used to offer sacrifices to appease their gods.

    Whenever tired, we would take a rest in the elephant grass. It was so spongy, wild and seemed unconsumed for many years, a clear indication that it had been so long since elephants had been here, probably due to extinction. How sad.

    By far, the mountain presented itself as a place of wonder, mystery and legend. I saw more of its hidden beauty, spirit and majesty in the eyes Harpson (one of our guides) as he spoke about it with so much passion.

    The biggest highlight of the day was entering into the cloud zone. They looked like floating giant cotton balls.

    About the bathing…. FEAR kept roaring through me whenever I imagined taking a dip in an environment whose temperatures fluctuate between 2-6degrees. Wiping my body using a towel dipped in warm water in the most I could do to freshen up.

    Day3

    On the 26th, we awoke celebratory Swahili songs of other caretakers singing for clients as they touched base at Horombo the camp. They had finished conquering the three dominant peaks that make Kilimanjaro in nine days. It was an energetic performance peppered by stamping feet and clapping thunderously. The one thing most of these victors had in common was a burnt skin and cracked lips. The sun hadn’t been so kind to them. Fear threatened to swamp what little composure I had left at this sight. I needed no warning to understand that we were headed for the thorny chapter of the expedition. Indeed, it was very hot as our battalion of adventurers matched through an utter desert. A land that was once carpeted with snow before global warming reproached the mountain.

    To make it through, water came in handy as our medicine.

    On the whole, the most surprising part of the adventure was that despite being away from Kampala, I was still able to run business and family affairs in real time all thanks to International Airtime Top Up’s reload services. Imagine the possibility of being over 16,000 feet above sea level and still being able to get airtime top up amount instantly, to make calls, send and receive SMS, email and videos, use social media and browse the internet whenever need arises.

    Day 4

    When it comes to mountaineering, safety is everything, and I couldn’t be happier that Baba Kilimanjaro had been paying extreme attention to our safety throughout the previous days. The last phase of the adventure wasn’t exceptional. Each of us was availed additional warm gear ahead of our ascent to Uhuru peak, the final lap of the hike.

    Considering how steep its gradient was, its departure was planned for 4 am. That way, we would make it to our destination before the punishing sun took toll of the day. Torches with head lights and gaggles with strong night vision were our pathfinders in the darkness. Due to lack of vegetation, the lack of oxygen became real as we disappeared past cloud level. My feet became heavy. However, I am not the only one who had been pushed to the limits. In a distance, I could see a hikers who were breathing deeply to fill their lungs with oxygen.

    We couldn’t be more depressed meeting half cheerful folks who were making their way from the mountain. Their body language dryly made it clear that we were finished. Our eyes darkened and smiles faded. Joy’s mouth went dry and her hands clenched. Cold sweat popped out of my chilled skin as I pictured myself throwing in the towel with no more thought than you would give pulling weeds.

    Luckily, Alex our Team Leader was not ready to take our no for an answer.

    “Listen to your heart, get up and keep going, it is not over. But it’s about to be.” He said as we got back on our feet to cover the remaining one hour journey from Gilman’s peak to Uhuru.

    Reaching the crest of Uhuru peak was such an inspiration. My lungs were searching for air and overflowing with happiness not because I had made it so far, but rather because before me was the most beautiful creation I have ever known, the golden sunrise, Africa’s hallmark. Even better, I was beholding it at the highest point in the continent, 19,341 ft. above sea level. You have to see it for yourself one day.

    Travel Advisory

    Carry with you enough warm gear that can sustain the body at winter temperatures. Temperatures drop to negatives as one ascends past cloud level (starting 2,500 meters above sea level).

    Hiking Kilimanjaro costs between $1200-$1600 depending on tourism season. This fee covers for full board experiences throughout the six day adventure.

    The best time to hike Kilimanjaro are warmest months. These run from January through mid-March. In the wet season, the floor of the mountain is slippery and thus hard to maneuver over.

    The adventure is pre-booked.