Vibrant cultures, friendly people, glittering cities, pristine beaches, and close-up wildlife encounters that will take your breath away, are all waiting for you in Africa. Africa is big! It is the 2nd largest continent in the world, and home to over 1.37 billion people. There are over 54 different countries in this diverse continent. Travelers initially go to see the animals, and they go back because of the people.
Africa is a perfect destination for everyone! Baby boomers who want a new adventure are going to Africa while they are still fit and healthy. Some are adding an African Safari onto a cruise itinerary. Millennials who view themselves as global citizens, and want to give back to the world, are heading to Africa.
There are 90% fewer rhinos today, then there were in 1973, so the animals need our support. Some populations are in emanate danger of disappearing, and some fortunately are on the road to recovery, thanks to educated people who care. Many travelers are now aware they should disable the GPS on their cell phone and iPad when they take pictures, as poachers use this information to pin point the exact location of animals to harm.
Africa is also a perfect destination for multi-generation travel, foodies, romantics (beach and safari honeymoons), and those who want an active holiday. There are world class gourmet and fusion restaurants, wineries, action packed activities, as well as relaxation and wellness options.
Different travel options are available for every budget range. You can do a tailor-made safari, choose a safari vacation package, or go with a small group for comradery.
South Africa stands out as the most diverse country in Africa. There are 11 official languages and many cultural nuances.
The famous Cape Winelands offer wine tastings at local estate wineries and excellent cuisine. South Africa has craft markets, art galleries, and many world class spas. In the National Parks, you can see a lot of animals. The rangers can go off road, and get up close when they see a pride of lions for example, so you can have an intimate experience.
South Africa is perfect for families, as there are hotels and lodges that offer family friendly programs and activities. There are even malaria free private game reserves with lions, elephants, buffalo and rhinos that are perfect for young children and women who may be pregnant.
East Africa is an excellent choice for travelers who are interested in culture and wildlife but don’t care about touristy things. It is the perfect choice for people who want to have a traditional safari experience, and perhaps see some primates. “The Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth” happens in Kenya, when over 1 million wildebeest and zebras do their annual migration from the rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara, to the wooded savanna.
East Africa is a year- round destination, but you can target the area where most of the animals are at a certain time.
The Serengeti in Kenya is ideal between December and June, and the Masai Mara area is ideal between July and November. The Masai Mara has the largest number of lion prides, buffalo, leopards, warthogs, eland, bushbuck, wildebeest and zebra.
To feel the emotional impact of seeing silverback gorillas in your mist, you need to travel to Rwanda or Uganda. The Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda has one of the highest concentrations and diversity of primates, including chimpanzees which are endangered.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest has over ½ of the world’s population of Bwindi mountain gorillas. Seeing a family of mountain gorillas in their own environment, and a mother playing with her babies, is an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, you can have both a land and water safari experience. The Okavango Delta in Botswana is fed by the Okavango River and is a jewel in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. Flooding occurs every year between May and July, as the river has no ocean outlet. Imagine seeing little baby hippos and crocodiles nestled in the grass as you canoe beside them.
Victoria Falls, a natural wonder of the world, is a must see in Zimbabwe. The Zambezi river becomes the roaring waterfalls called Mosi-ao-Tunya by the locals, which means “Smoke that Thunders.” The South Luangwa National Park is perfect for walking safaris in the lower Zambezi.
In Zambia, there are special Sunset game drives, where guides can use a spot light to find cats, leopards, and other nocturnal animals.
Namibia is home to the famed Sossusvlei Dunes, the tallest sand dunes in the world, and it is the driest country on earth. The massive shifting sea of sand morphs in colors from red to orange depending on the sun.
Himba tribes people have lived in this desert for over 100 years and cover their bodies from head to toe with the red earth mixed with butter. This keeps their skin moisturized, which protects them from the sun, and mosquito bites. The women have very elaborate hair styles, and the Himba people have hardly any wrinkles, and go through their whole life without taking a bath.
Even though it is so dry, Namibia has a thriving wildlife population, and the largest concentration of cheetahs, another endangered species. Fish River Canyon in the south of Namibia, is the largest canyon in Africa, and draws hikers from around the world.
There are many details to consider when planning a trip to one of Africa’s amazing countries. You need to know what Visas are required, what currency to bring, what colors of clothing to wear, the baggage allowances on flights, and information about any possible vaccinations and required medications before you travel.
Call us, and we will use our knowledge to help you with every detail, so you will have an epic soul stirring, seamless experience. We do not charge a fee for our services.
Africa is an incredible, life-changing place. Once you have unleashed the awe, you can leave Africa, but Africa will never leave you!
