Wildlife Safaris

Do-it-Yourself Safaris - Guide to Self Drive Kenya Camping Safaris

2008-03-07T21:11:00.000-08:00

The self drive Kenya safaris are a viable and exciting option is you have the necessary camping equipment and when you can get a group together. Nothing beats the experience of discovering new frontiers by maps, getting lost and found and all the frills of DIY.

Group self drive safaris

The group will of course help you share the cost of hiring a vehicle and other expenses. It is however highly discouraged to go on a do-it-yourself safari by yourself. Besides the everyday risks of mugging and solitude, you don?t want to be changing a tyre with no one watching your back for that Tsavo lion.

Pros of a self drive safari

There are of course several advantages of a DIY safari over organised itineraries through outfitters. This ranges from the flexibility, independence of being able to choose your safari companions and of-course the thrill of being out and about exploring. It is however also wise to know that going on a self drive safari will cost you as much as an organised cheap safari.

The down side of self drives safaris

Besides the cost, vehicle breakdowns, accidents, security and a lack of local knowledge are also major handicaps in a self drive safari tour.

Your flexibility

With an appropriate vehicle, all accommodation options are open to you even out of the way places and camping and using bandas are two good ways of keeping down your costs.

Camping Equipment Hire for DIY Safaris

If you want to hire camping equipment, there are several places in Nairobi that you can go to for the same. Organize to have at least 2 days to get the vehicle camping, gear, maps, cooking ware, canvas safari bathrooms, supplies and of course water. You may need to also test drive your choice car around Nairobi. Never take the word of a car hire firm as final.

Your check list

Check and double check your equipment and don?t pay until you are sure of the fitness of the car especially. Most importantly find out of the self drive car rental firm has a backup mechanism. Mobile VHF radio or at the least a mobile phone is of course very essential.

Believe me I once had a situation, in the middle of forsaken carnivore territory and not even a match to send smoke signals. Me thinks you wouldn?t want to have been there with me.

Rental/Hiring costs of camping gear

Identification such as passport is required and advance booking is recommended and saves time. Expect to pay 400 for a sleeping bag per day with liner, Kshs 700 for a two person dome tent and Kshs 200 per day for gas stove (gas canisters are extra).

A deposit of Kshs 3000-5000 is payable for most items. For longer trips it may be reasonable to buy some of these items at the big Nakumatt super markets in Nairobi which sell cheap plastic plates, stoves, chairs etc.

It is also possible to hire a vehicle and camping equipment as one package. Some companies in Nairobi offer rather an unusual package of a fully fitted 4WD with roof-mounted tent and everything else you might need for a long self drive safari for up to four people, including mobile phone, fridge, gas cooker and cooking utensils.

Prices range from BP 100 per day (less than 10 days) to BP 80 per day (25 days or more), with a minimum of five days rental; insurance excess waiver is an additional BP15.

Robert has written variously in travel to Kenya East Africa. Degreed in tourism management, he is a travel expert with landmarksafaris.com. For an idea of where to go for self drive safari tours, take the bait here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/carhire/

Kenya The Land Where Safari Was Born

2008-03-05T21:48:00.000-08:00

As a child, Africa fascinated me - a land where the wild and exotic animals of storybooks and zoos roamed free on the plains. And where Kenya was always the quintessential home of the safari.

Many visits later I'm no less enthralled by this region of dramatic contrasts, and remarkable wildlife amid stunningly beautiful and varied landscapes that are still unencumbered by the trappings of man. And little compares to nights filled with the primal sounds of the bush - the hoots and laughs of hyenas, the grumble of distant lions and the snorts of a hippo.

Kenya, the land where safari was born, is also known as the cradle of mankind - evidence of some of the earliest human settlements has been found here, suggesting that it was the birthplace of humanity from which descendents moved out to populate the world. However, it's the boundless wilderness and big game of this region that has long attracted adventure seekers from all over the globe. No other African country can boast such an incredible range of scenery, unique geographical features and species.

A safari in Kenya is an extraordinary holiday for any wildlife lover, no matter your budget or the level of adventure you're looking for. There's no end of things to explore; from the highlands of central Kenya to the great Rift valley; from the elephants of Amboseli wallowing in a small watering hole, to the vast shores of Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the world; and from the spectacular views of Africa's highest point, Mount Kilimanjaro, down to a coast of shimmering white sands along the Indian Ocean.

Soak up the wonders of nature while camping under the stars out in the bush, hundreds of miles away from civilization, or relax in luxury at one of the lodges scattered throughout the many game reserves and national parks of this magical country.

Whether you're walking, driving, or even bobbing your way across the plains atop a camel, you'll discover the scents, sounds, and footprints of the bush, as you enjoy the sight of a hyena at full gallop, weaving behind the adrenaline-powered run of a gazelle, or a mighty battle as buffalo bulls fight over territory.

If you venture on a Kenyan safari during July or August, perhaps the best way to check out the wildlife is by hot air balloon. Few places offer a better vantage point from which to witness the amazing phenomenon that is the annual wildebeest migration across the plains of the Maasai Mara, when millions of hooves thunder northwards in search of sweeter grazing during the drier months in the south.

The Maasai Mara Reserve, 200 sq miles of rolling hills, woods and acacia trees watered by the Mara and Talek rivers, opens onto the Serengeti plains of Tanzania. Home to the famously independent and traditional herdsmen, no trip to Kenya would be complete without a visit to Masai Mara. They regard themselves not just as residents of this area but as much a part of the life of the land, as the land is part of their lives.

A visit to Kenya is a veritable life-changing experience filled with an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, black rhino, lions, leopards and various antelope. One visit alone will be enough to make you understand Earnest Hemmingway's words, "unknowable, unimaginable, unbelievable... and completely unforgettable." Visit: http://www.magicglobe.com/kenya/safaris.asp for more information.

Carlos Cuzme is a travel expert to Africa and specially to the luxury safari business. for more information on safaris to botswana visit: Kenya Luxury Safaris

Kenya Animal Safari; Most Sublime Animal Safari & Tour Park

2008-03-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

The landscape in Tsavo is flatter and drier than in Tsavo West, despite the fact that one of Kenya?s largest rivers flows through the middle of the park. The main track through the park follows the Galana River from Tsavo Gate to the Sala gate. The park headquarters, where you can charge and buy smartcards, is at Voi Gate.

Animal Spotting in Tsavo East National Park

Much of the wildlife spotting is concentrated on the Galana River, which cuts a green gush across the dusty orange plains of the park and supports plentiful crocs and hippos. There are several places along the flat topped escarpments lining the river where you can get out of your vehicle, with due caution of course. Most scenic are Lugards Falls, a wonderful landscape of water-sculptured channels, and crocodiles Point, where you may see hippos and crocs.

There are usually armed guards around, but you shouldn?t get too close to the water. Kudus, waterbucks and dik-dik are common along the river banks. Also of interest is the Mudanda Rock, towering over a natural dam near the Manyani gate, which attracts elephants in the dry season.

Large herds of RED elephants

The bush is thinner than in Tsavo West, so wildlife is easier top spot, although it?s not as plentiful. The rolling hills in the south of the park are home to large herds of elephants, usually covered in red dust. The action is concentrated the waterhole at Voi safari lodge, and the Kanderi Swamp, which is home to a profusion of wildlife and the public campsite.

You can expect elephants to stroll through the campsite in the evenings. Further into the park, 30km east of Voi gate is the Aruba Dam built across the Voi River, which also sees loads of wildlife. A lodge has been under construction here for some time.

Your security issues at Tsavo East Park

The area north of the Galana River is dominated by the Yatta Escarpment, a vast prehistoric lava flow. This area has recently been opened up for tourist after a long time closure due to insecurity. Check at the gates the prevailing situation before proceeding here.

Endangered Hirola in Tsavo East animal Park

Until their partial translocation to Tsavo East, the sole surviving population of Hirola antelope was found near Kenya Somalia border in the south Tana River and Garissa districts. Intense poaching (for meat) and habitat destruction have reduced their numbers from an estimated 14,000 in 1976 to a pitiful 450 today, 100 of them being in Tsavo East. There are also around 48 black rhinos, moved here from Nairobi National Park, although how long they last in this hard-to- police sanctuary remains to be seen.

Translocations of elephants to the park

On the positive side, the recent translocation of 400 elephants from the Shimba Hills National Reserve has replenished the populations depleted by poaching, and should herald the start of efforts to rehabilitate the wild northern sector of the park and open it up for tourist activity.

Robert is a travel expert with Landmarksafaris.com. Degreed in tourism management, he has authored more than 1000 articles on Kenya East African travel. Get hooked to the Tsavo National Park here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php

The Top Five African Safari Destinations!

2008-03-04T21:08:00.000-08:00

Going on African safari would be the adventure of a lifetime for many. Africa, despite it's political unrest and problems over the last century is still a mysterious and beautiful part of the planet and to see it once will provide lifetime memories. But what part of Africa do you want to see?

The great thing about African safaris is you can choose from either a limited number of destinations to visit or depending on your budget, can see it all from top to bottom. So what are the most popular African safari destinations?

Serengeti

The Serengeti is a great year round destination. Tanzania has plenty of attractions but it's the Serengeti which provides Africa in all it's glory. Big cat lovers won't be disappointed whether it's lions, leopards or cheetahs you want to see but there is a multitude of wildlife on offer in this special part of the world.

Okavango Delta

Remember the "Jungle Jim" adventures. When you visit the Okavango Delta you'll feel like you are in another world. Why? This virtually untouched and untamed part of Africa provides safari lovers with just about everything they have dreamed of about deep and darkest Africa. From fauna to flora to water, the Okavango Delta has it all and quite literally, could satisfy all your safari requirements.

Kruger National Park

South Africa's Kruger National Park is a vast and spectacular piece of real estate. Wildlife abounds here but the great thing about this part of Africa is the variety it offers visitors. It's just about everyone's favorite African safari destination as there are endless types of safaris you can choose from. Whether you want to take a self-drive safari or a walking safari; or maybe get off the beaten track a little, Kruger National Park can provide the setting. Kruger has many well organised safari options and is an ideal destination for the whole family.

Masai Mara

Like the Serengeti, Kenya's Masai Mara is teeming with wildlife. Even better still, it has it's own unique appearance. The migration of wild beast during the second half of the year from the Serengeti could just about make "the wonders of the world" list and many veteran African safari seekers will make more than one trip to this part of Africa just to witness this spectacle.

Victoria Falls

Visiting Victoria Falls is like viewing a part of Heaven. The fact it's such a spectacular viewing experience is one thing but the more adventurous of us have the opportunity to try activities of a more daring nature. Victoria Falls combines everything nature has to offer in one convenient location and is a must see for students of photography.

These are just some of the many highlights an African safari has to offer. Seeing all five in one trip would be ideal but visiting just one or two of these areas will whet your appetite for more. Beware, it's addictive and the "danger" is you could very well become an African safari "junkie."

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. If you're planning an African Safari then don't miss this report on the top five safari destinations! Plus, read the latest african safari related news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com

A Safari Across the Serengeti

2008-03-03T21:27:00.001-08:00

You have decided to take a safari; then I would advise a Serengeti Safari in Northern Tanzania. A Safari across the endless plains of the Serengeti is to witness the last great migration on earth; it is an unforgettable experience. The whole safari across the huge Serengeti is a package with an abundance of animals rivalled no where in Africa; it is compounded with majestic landscapes and the fascinating tribes people you meet; here you will realise you are in Africa proper.

The great migration safari in the Serenegeti comprises of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest in a never ending cycle of movement; closely followed by the predators looking for an easy meal. The Wildebeest follow the rains and there migration is therefore as unpredictable as these rains. It is the last remaining great migration on our planet and as such it is a must to take a safari to witness first hand this great event.

Many safari companies try to predict the whereabouts of the animals. The success of this is dependent on 1. the rains being on time and 2. The rains lasting long enough and then 3. the past experience of the company organising migration safaris in the Serengeti. The problem with these predictions are that in recent years the rains have not been on time or they have even failed leaving some safari-makers with clients in the wrong lodges in the wrong area of the Serengeti. Recently many people on safari in Kenya [as the migration crosses the border and for a short time the Animals are in Kenya] experienced the failure of the long rains and with this failure most of the animals remained in the Northern Serengeti leaving many safari-ists not only in the wrong lodges but in in the wrong country!

How to solve this problem involves a little work on your part. To research your subject and book your safari vacation with care; bellow are a few simple steps to act as a basic guideline.

1. Firstly if you must book your safari from late July through to the end of September/October then it is necessary to book well in advance. This time of year is so busy most of the loges will become full. There are far to many people on photographic safaris at this time of year.

Have you heard of overcrowding in the Serenegeti? If you have the chances are the safari took place between these over crowded summer months; and most probably the safari was in the Seronera Valley in the central Serengeti. This area of the Serengeti has a good reliable concentration of animals with a year round water supply. Many safari companies [especially the bargain priced safaris] are lazy and send there clients to this part of the Serengeti only. This ensures lower mileage, bigger profits and happy clients because of the abundance of animals? Ensure your safari includes two areas of the Serengeti one should be the south or the north of this huge park depending on the time of year and where the migration is heading.

3. If you have the luxury of booking when tourists are few in Tanzania then try to leave the actual booking of the safari until a few weeks before your departure. If it is low season, March through to the end of June then the safaris [that is the accommodation and to a less extent transport] are at bargain basement rates. Keep checking on the whereabouts of the migration and then book your accommodation through a quality operator accordingly. Safari operators should be able to get luxury accommodation cheaper than you booking directly - this is how the safari operators make there profit.

4. Unfortunately the easiest way to a successful migration safari in the Serengeti is also the most expensive. Book a luxury safari in a semi permanent luxury tented lodge. They are semi permanent as they move several times per year as the migration moves. This almost guarantees you will be up close and personal with the great migration. [Do not let the tent bit put you off; they are huge tents with double beds and furniture and even en-suite bathrooms. Some boast of private butlers for each tent. They are small camps and have an intimate relationship with the surroundings.]

How, is it possible to keep a check on the whereabouts of the migration is easier said than done. There are many sites that claim to have regular updates but some are two years past the sell by date. I would suggest keeping in touch with two or three of the small ?boutique? tour operators in Tanzania ? they have vehicles with drivers who are returning from the Serengeti every week and so know the movements of the animals. They are also small and do not mind keeping you informed of what is happening in order to [hopefully] get a safari out of you? the more helpful they are the more likely you are to book through them.

Take time and plan your safari carefully as the planning is a part of the adventure. Take time to research a little and make sure your ground operator in Tanzania is willing to make your safari special. Many of the safari operators are [rather sadly] only bothered about making a quick buck and the client?s wishes are of no concern to them. Beware of such companies as they exist at the Luxury end as well as the budget end of the spectrum. Tanzania and the Serengeti are amazing; make sure your safari experience is as amazing.

This information is taken from the Juma Page web site and this site is dedicated to providing fee information on Tanzania and safaris http://www.thejumapage.co.uk More info can be seen at form do it your self - to work experience and volunteering - to no expense spared this site is a must before you plan and pay for your trip to Tanzania

African Lion Country Safari - Safari Lion Animal Facts - African Wild Lion Hunting Safari in Kenya

2008-03-02T21:30:00.000-08:00

The king of the forest or so the African lion has been re-baptized. The lion may be the king of the savannah but certainly not of the forest; it is not its habitat. Its scientific name is panthera Leo, a carnivore; class- mammals; family- felines. Its length may reach 2 ? meters, its height one metre. The female is slightly smaller. Weight; 200 to 250kg. Gestation period; 105 to 110 days. Length of life; up to 20years.

The lioness not only takes care of the cubs (three or four at a time) but it is also the more expert and agile hunter. Zebra and antelopes of various types like impala, Kongoni, make up the regular diet of an African lion. In need, it does not scorn rats, rock rabbits, and even carrions of elephants, buffaloes and giraffes.

The worst enemy of the lion is a rather innocuous animal, the size of a small dog; the porcupine who very cleverly waits for the lion to run after him then suddenly stops letting the hunter stick its nose in a forest of sharp quills in its jaws as this may remain stuck there for life, a painful reminder every time it has to chew.

The lion is a proverbial glutton; it may eat up to one fifth of its weight at one meal. However, it may also fast for three or four days. Humans may become its prey as well. The man eaters of Tsavo became famous during the building of the Mombasa-Kisumu railway. One station carries their name; Simba (Kiswahili for Lion)

Only the male lion wears a mane; it begins to grow at about three years of age. Famous is its roar, it may be heard for 5miles around in the savannah. In African fables and proverbs the lion is often humiliated, tricked or defeated by other small defenseless animals.

Kenya rhino animals

The rhino is the second largest in size after the elephant. There are in Africa, two species of Rhino, the black and the white one. Where black only means a shade darker, white means dirty grew; a bit of a confusion which could be cleared by calling each with its scientific name of ceratotherium simum (the white one) and Diceros Bicornis (the black one).

The first attains a length of 4 ? meters and a weight of 4 tons while the second does not reach 4 meters and just manages 2 tons. The gestation period of the first is a hundred days longer than that of the second, estimated at 450-480 days.

The looks of the rhino are far from friendly; perhaps is nature?s gift to a timid (so experts believe) and even easily frightened animal. There is no doubt that its sight is very poor, so when feeling in danger it plays the bully and charges anyhow to scare off the supposed enemy be it an animal or a vehicle. The two horns on its snout are truly a formidable weapon; but their scope is rather to enable the animal to tear or uproot its food (besides grass and tree bark, roots form its favorite diet)

Rhinos prefer small company; every family chooses its territory and rarely goes beyond the boundaries. The rhino has a queer characteristic; a very conjugal act. This may be the source of the legend widely believed in Asia that Rhino horn powder is a powerful aphrodisiac. That is why it has been exterminated in some places and reduced to very few in others. The legend is not dead yet

Robert is a travel expert with Landmarksafaris. He has authored more than 1000 articles on Africa Kenya animal holiday trip. Learn more of your experience in the best of all Kenya animal Holiday safaris here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php/?refferer=ezinearticles

African Lion Safari Kenya- Lion Safari In Africa Kenya-Lion Animal Information

2008-03-02T21:25:00.000-08:00

With shores fringed with papyrus and yellow-barked acacias, and freshwater that supports protected hippo populations, fish eagles and a blossoming horticultural industry, Lake Naivasha?s beauty is as undeniable as its importance to the region.

A vast range of plains animals and a plethora of birdlife have long called the verdant shoreline home, as have the Maasai, who considered it prime grazing land. Unfortunately for the Maasai, the splendor of the surroundings wasn?t lost on early settlers either and it was one of the first areas they settled, eventually becoming the favourite haunt of Lord Delamere and the decadent Happy Valley set in the 1930?s.

Amazingly between 1937 and 1950 the lake was Kenya?s main airport, with BOAC?s Empire and Solent flying boats landing here after their four-day journey from Southampton. Lake Naivasha is still one of the largest settler and expat communities in Kenya, and can have a resort-like feel to it in high season, when it essentially becomes Kenya?s St Tropez.

Not only does Lake Naivasha?s fresh water bestow it with a unique ecosystem in comparison with the vast majority of Rift Valley lakes, which are highly alkaline, but it also means that the lake can be used for irrigation purposes. While the surrounding countryside has historically been a major production area for beef cattle and fresh fruit and vegetables, today the flower industry rules the roost.

Shade houses have proliferated in the hills recently, and Lake Naivasha is now the centre of Kenya?s US$360 million flower industry. Astoundingly, flowers that are picked here in the morning can be at Europe?s flower auctions the same day. One flower grower alone produced a million rose stems for Valentine?s Day in 2005!

However, the success of the agricultural and horticultural industry is threatening the very survival of the source of their creation, as pesticides and fertilizers are seeping into the lake and reeking havoc with the ecosystem. Irrigation has further destabilized erratic water levels, which had seen the lake almost dry up in the late 1890?s before rebounding to cover almost 1000sq km in the early 20th century. The lake is currently receding again, and now only spreads over 170sq km.

The lake?s ecology has been interfered with on a number of other occasions, notably with the introduction of foreign fish (for sports and commercial fisheries), cray fish, the South American coypu (an aquatic rodent that initially escaped from a fur farm) and various aquatic plants, including the dreaded water hyacinth.

For these reasons Naivasha has been the focus of conservation efforts and in 1995, after years of lobbying from the lake Naivasha Riparian Association (LRNA),the lake was designated a Ramsar site, officially recognizing it as a wetland of international importance. Besides educating the locals dependent on the lake about the environmental issues involved, the LNRA, Elsamere Conservation Center and other organisations work to establish a code of conduct among the local growers that will maintain the lake?s biodiversity. The results are promising, but much work remains to be done.

Its worth visiting the Lake Naivasha Riparian offices and Elsamere if only to support their work in Naivasha.

Robert is a travel expert with Landmarksafaris.com. He has authored more than 1000 articles on Africa Kenya vacation travel. Learn more of your experience in Kenya lake vacation safaris and plan your african lion safari and get a free quote here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/?refferer=ezinearticles

These Are Kenya's Top Safari Destinations In Africa!

2008-02-29T21:27:00.000-08:00

Kenya offers african safari enthusiasts so much more than open plains, jungles and wildlife; that's if you were wanting more more. I was amazed to learn Kenya can provide plenty of tropical paradise to visitors via it's amazing beaches.

African safari club members have been enjoying the wonderment Kenya has to offer for over 40 years and the amazing thing is, this magnificenr land is no secret!

Top Five Kenyan Attractions!

Let's examine the best of the best Kenya has to offer. Going on safari in Africa is for most, a once in a lifetime experience so make the most of your visit. That's why Kenya is such an attractive part of Africa to visitors; it has it all.

Kenyan Beaches

From the north in Lamu, all the way to Mombassa in the south, Kenya's beaches are a holiday zone on their own. White sands, relaxation, water sports: just about any activity you can imagine and exploring it's wonderful marine reserves adds further gloss to a beachside stay in this country. Taking in an all encompassing safari in Kenya would normally mean winding down on a sandy beach and this is a path many decide to choose... they leave the beaches till last!

Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is particularly attractive to visitors during the migration period for the wildbeest during the second half of the year. However, don't let this put you off not visiting this wildlife-filled haven during the first half of the year. The added attraction of seeing some of the world's most feared natural predators on the open plains of the Masai Mara is mouth-watering for many african safari club enthusiasts.

Samburu Safari

This may not make many people's top three Kenyan attractions but that is hard to understand. Samburu is a classic dry and arid African landscape cut in the middle by water which is a magnet for a great variety of wildlife. Elephants abound in this environment given the water available but you'll see everything from lions to leopards in Samburu.

Mount Kenya

A snow covered mountain top adds a further majestic touch to this usually hot and dry environment but that's what Mount Kenya offers. The second tallest peak in all of Africa, Mount Kenya is popular to hikers and mountain climbers. It's certainly a top five must see for african safari club devotees when visiting Kenya.

Amboselli National Park

While it's not the largest national park in Kenya, it's location is popular to tourists because of it's close proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboselli national park is a phoyographer's dream and apart from the scenery, is abundant in wildlife including lions, giraffes and zebras. It definately makes my top five list!

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Check out why Kenya is a great African Safari destination. We give you the top five must visit attractions! Plus, read the latest african safari related news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com/wp

Kenya Flying Safaris & 4WD Safaris - 3 Most Popular Kenya Safaris

2008-02-27T21:29:00.000-08:00

1. Flying safaris Kenya

These safaris essentially cater for the well-off who want to fly between remote airstrips in the various national parks and stay in luxury tented camps. If money is no object, you can get around by a mixture of charter and scheduled flights and stay in some of the finest camps in Kenya, arrangements can be made with any of the Kenyan lodge and tented camp safari operators.

Flying safaris to Lake Turkana and Sibiloi National park are common, and most Kenya safari companies will be able to sort out a country wide itinerary. Safari seekers can arrange reasonably priced Kenyan flying safaris. Quite a few special-interest safari operator companies use light aircraft to save time.

2. Lake Turkana Safaris

There can be few travelers who come to Kenya who do not relish the expedition through the semi-arid wilds of Samburu National Reserve and up to the legendary Lake Turkana (Jade Sea).

These safaris all use open-sided 4WD trucks that take up to 18 people and two or three staff (cook, driver and courier). You will need to set aside a minimum of seven days to complete the journey.

There are Kenya safari companies that have 10-day Lake Turkana safaris on request. Itineraries are tailor ?made ad tend to keep away from the usual routes. Trips often include guided walks, allowing meetings with Rendille and Samburu tribes? people. The Ndoto Mountains, Mathews range, Shaba National Reserve and Chalbi Desert can all be included.

Other Kenya travel company (ies) offer 10-and eight day safari takes in Mt. Kenya, Samburu National Reserve, Marsabit, Chalbi Desert, Lake Turkana, Mararal and Lake Baringo, and costs US$550 (plus a local payment of US$110 per person in Turkana).

The eight-day option visits lake Baringo, Mararal, Lake Turkana and the Samburu National Reserve, and costs us$440 (plus local payment of $75). Both safaris use a powerboat for a short excursion on the lake and traditional Turkana huts make up accommodation beside the lake 10km south of Loyangalani. Other Kenya off-the-beaten-track companies offer a 10-day combined Lake Turkana and camel safari.

3. Motor cycle Safaris

Operating out of Diani some Kenya vacation companies run motorcycle safaris to the Taita hills and the Kilimanjaro foothills, supported by a Land rover. Large 350cc trail bikes are used and the full six day trips include a wildlife drive in Tsavo West National Park and two nights lodge accommodation.

The cost is Ksh 57,800 per rider, including meals, camping, guides, and fuel and support vehicle. The companies also rent out motor cycles and scooters and can arrange custom guided motor cycle tours for around Kshs 6,700 per day.

Other safaris offered in off-the-beaten-track Kenya include wildlife/game walking safaris, Biking safaris and truck/overland safaris. These are customized to include visits to tribal areas and wildlife walks. Some of the itineraries include sections of 10km walks. These walks go through tribal areas of the Rendille and the Samburu and end at noon. Camps are pitched at 12.30pm and no walking is done in the afternoon. Travelers spend the time relaxing and readying themselves for the next day walk or camel ride.

Request more information from a Kenyan tour or travel/safari company.

Robert is a travel expert in East Africa. He has authored many articles on travel to East Africa and Kenya:

http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/?refferer=ezinearticles

The Top African Lion Safari Destinations For 2007

2008-02-27T21:28:00.000-08:00

The African lion has been in the news during the past few years possibly for the wrong reasons. Considering the lion has been touted as an animal headed for possible extinction in the years to come, this news must horrify safari enthusiasts and animal lovers worldwide.

The African Lion - Will It Survive?

When talking about the king of the jungle and everything the lion represents, it's hard to imagine from an outsiders perspective that this symbol of strength could even be considered as a species on the endangerment list. What could possibly be a threat to this magnificent beast... Well, the answer should have come to you quickly... man!

More to the point, progress, and as Africa continues to implement newer technologies in the areas of farming and infrastructure, more and more of the mighty African lion's habitat is being whittled away. The result of this is both lion and man are brought into direct conflict and as the great animal's habitat is being eroded, so is it's natural food source which means it needs to look for alternatives.

These alternatives are the farming animals which graze the former territories of the lion. They are easy pickings for one of the world's most ferocious and skilled hunters but with it comes the wrath of man, who naturally has to protect his own interests and livelihood; so it's the lion who comes off second best. You can guess the resultant action!

Best African Lion Destinations On Safari

If you are planning an African safari, undoubtedly the highlight from an animal perspective is the African lion. To see this mighty creature in the flesh is one thing but to actually see it in action is another. You see, despite it's hunting capabilities the lion is somewhat of a sleeper. Yes, they can "shut-eye" for up to twenty hours a day which can be a nightmare if you are hoping to capture the king in all his hunting glory!

As a photographer, some patience is obviously required but as a tourist an amateur camera person then given the obvious time constraints associated with group tours on safari then it becomes a little like "pot luck."

There are many excellent destinations within Africa to see the lion. The two best destinations to see the lion in 2007?

- The Serengeti in Tanzania is our first choice. Why? The migration of the wildbeest during the last half of the year. The lions and many other predators lay in wait as their prime food source scampers across the countryside.

- Kenya's Masai Mara is another African lion hotspot. Again the wildbeest migration is a strong reason while the open landscape is an ideal environment.

- South Africa has several options to see the lion including the magnificent Kruger National Park.

- Botswana has plenty to offer for safari enthusiasts but the presence of big cats such as the lion draws visitors here regularly. Check out Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta East... great African landscape and plenty of wildlife to go with it!

An African lion safari is a once in a lifetime experience for most. There are some excellent programs now in place to ensure the king of the beasts makes it to the next century. Now is a great time to head off on safari to see the lion in it's own backyard!

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Check out these top African Lion Safari destination tips for 2007! We give four must see areas! Plus, read the latest african safari related news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com/wp

Kenya Amboseli Safari Park: Kenya Elephant Animal Amboseli Park

2008-02-26T21:16:00.001-08:00

Amboseli National Park is the most popular park after Masai Mara, mainly because of the spectacular backdrop of Africa?s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, which broods over the southern boundary of the park. Cloud cover can render the mountain?s massive bulk invisible for much of the day, but the two lodges in the centre of the par are perfectly placed for those classic early morning views.

As well as being a prominent part of the country? tourist portfolio, the park has been at the centre of some controversy since president Kibaki?s 2005 decision to downgrade it from a national park to a national reserve, transferring its administration from the KWS to local authorities. Supporters claim that the move rightfully returns control of the land to the Masai community, but many conservation bodies have argued that it?s simply a political move aimed at securing the Maasai vote, and that degazetting parks is an illegal move that could undermine Kenya?s whole wildlife preservation system. In the wake of the crushing defeat on the constitution referendum, Kibaki?s next move on this issue will doubtlessly come under heavy scrutiny.

At 392sqkm, Amboseli is a small park and lacks the profusion of animal species found in the Masai Mara, but as the landscape provides limited cover for wildlife you have a good chance of seeing some of the larger predators. The vegetation here used to be much denser, but rising salinity, damage by elephants and irresponsible behaviour by safari vehicles has caused terrible erosion. Amboseli can turn into a real dustbowl in the dry season.

Buffaloes, lions, gazelles, cheetahs, wildebeest, hyena, jackals, warthogs, zebras, Masai giraffes and baboons are all present, but the last few black rhinos were moved to Tsavo West in 1995 after a sustained period of poaching. In the permanent swamps of Enkongo Narok and Olokenya, large elephant herds can be seen grazing with Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background, probably the definitive Kenyan wildlife shot (and available on innumerable postcards if you can?t snap it yourself)

Erosion and grass die-off is having a dramatic effect at Amboseli; the rains seem to provide less relief every season, and it?s only a matter of years before the lack of food makes the animals move on. It?s important for vehicles to stick to the defined tracks to avoid making things any worse. Hopefully others will follow suit and the grasslands that drew all these animals here in the first place can be preserved.

Amboseli: Distance, Hours, Roads and Means of transport

Amboseli Air safari

Air Kenya has daily flights between Wilson Airport in Nairobi and Amboseli (US$88, one hour), departing from Nairobi at 7.30am. Return flight leaves Amboseli at 8.30am. Mombasa Air Safari flies here from Mombasa and Diani (US$220) on the coast.

You?ll need to arrange with one of the lodges or a tour company in Kenya for a ticket and a vehicle to meet you at the airstrip.

Amboseli by car & 4X4

The usual approach to Amboseli is via Namanga. The road is sealed and in surprisingly good condition from Nairobi to Namanga; the 75km dirt road to the Meshanani Gate is pretty rough but passable (allow around four hours from Nairobi). In the dry season it?s also possible to enter through Kitirua Gate, but this is a bumpy old road and it?s hard to follow. The track branches right off the main Amboseli road after about 15km.

Some people also enter from the east via Amboseli-Tsavo West road, although this track is in a bad way and shouldn?t be considered in a conventional vehicle. During the 1990?s there were bandit attacks in this area, so vehicles have to travel together, accompanied by armed guards. Convoys leave from the Tsavo turn off, near the Sopa Lodge, at around 7am, 9am and 1pm. Allow 2 ? hrs to cover the 94 km from Amboseli to the Chyulu Gate at Tsavo West.

Self-drivers will need a 4WD to make the most of the park. Petrol is available at the Serena and Sopa lodges.

Robert is an East Africa Kenya travel expert. He is director of landmarksafaris.com, a Kenya safari tour company. More on the all-named Elephants of Amboseli safari park here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php/?refferer=ezinearticles

Kenya Safari- Lake Nakuru Safari Park of Kenya Rift Valley Lake Vacation

2008-02-25T22:31:00.002-08:00

The wonders of Lake Nakuru safari park

Lake Nakuru National Park is most famous for its stunning flocks of lesser flamingo, which led to its protection as a park. The flamingos populations are so massive they turn the edges of the lake pink. The park, thanks to the lake also has a very rich birdlife and is a stating point for upcoming ornithologists, scientists and wildlife-film makers.

The Nakuru lake vacation park includes a range of wooded and bush grassland surrounding the lake and offering a wide ecological variety, from lake water, woodland to rocky escarpments and ridges.

Facts on Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is located at an altitude of 4,000-5,767 ft and covers an area of 188sqkm. Lake Nakuru is a distance of 157 km from Nairobi Kenya. It has a Naishi airstrip. The Kenyan Lake Park opened its doors in June 1968 to protect the lake and its beneficiary bird and animal life. The Saline lake Nakuru national park hosts over 400 bird species including both aquatic and terrestrial birds.

The lake with a pink Ribbon

Flamingos alone number over 1 million birds in any given time of the year. Game viewing in Nakuru lake Vacation Park is plentiful and easy. Animals to be found in the park include ;leopard, White Rhino, Black Rhino, African savannah lion, Buffaloes, gazelles, hyenas, antelopes, giraffes among other Kenya plains game.

Lake Nakuru National Park has a very picturesque landscape consisting of Yellow fever trees (Acacia) and the endemic Euphorbia Candelabrum.

Wildlife of Lake Nakuru National Park

Other notable game in the lake park includes the hippo and clawless otters. There are plentiful of waterbucks and Bohor?s reedbuck and zebra roaming on the shores of Lake Nakuru. The woodlands have been restocked and successfully bred both white and black rhino populations. The black rhino populations had been decimated by poaching and only 2 animals remained in 1987.

A rhino sanctuary was introduced in the park and a breeding herd introduced from Laikipia. This has led to the lake Nakuru national park to be among the top breeding Kenya animal park for the black and white rhinos.

Wildlife viewing in Nakuru national park is relatively easy and one is able to see buffalo, leopard, lion, Rothschild?s giraffe, white and black colobus monkey. The woodlands offer eland, steinbok, impala, Chandler's Reedbuck and dik dik, whilst rock hyrax and klipspringer occupy the cliffs and escarpment.

Lake Nakuru Accommodation, lodges, campsites, guest houses and bandas

Accommodation in Nakuru national park include two lodges namely the Lake Nakuru lodge and the Sarova Lion Hill lodge with a total bed capacity of 244. There is a KWS guest house, five campsites, self?help bandas and two picnic sites; the Makalia Falls and Njoro River Mouth (Near the main gate).

Getting there There is an airstrip at the Lake Nakuru Park which gets scheduled and chartered flights from Wilson airport in Nairobi.

The park is however well served with a good Nairobi-Nakuru highway and is only 2 hours by road. In addition, one is able to make stops at the various view points with awesome panoramic views into the floor of the Great Rift Valley. By all means using the road is more rewarding when visiting Nakuru National Park.

Robert is an Kenya East Africa travel expert and director of Landmarksafaris.com. For more information on other most sought after Kenyan parks, see here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php/?refferer=ezinearticles

Kenya Walking & Cycling Safaris: Mt. Longonot & Hells Gate Kenya

2008-02-25T22:31:00.001-08:00

Mt. Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot is a relatively young volcano which peaks at 2,776m above sea level. Mt. Longonot is a captivating sight for tourists to the Great Rift Valley basin of Naivasha. Mt. Longonot was formed during the great Pleistocene era when earth forces were tearing apart the continents and eruptions rife. The mountain sides now have beautifully carved V-shaped ridges and valleys with deep forests inside the crater giving it a lush green outlook. The Mt. Longonot walking park surrounds the volcano.

Mt. Longonot Facts & figures

Rising at an altitude of 6,000-7,000ft, mt. Longonot trekking park covers an area of 52sqkm. The Kenya walking park is located 90kms from Nairobi and opened its doors in 1983. It has heavy volcano and crater forests and offers excellent walking and climbing opportunities to the summit and crater.

Mt. Longonot Close Proximity to Nairobi offers a chance for day trips where groups engage in active sport like game walking, cycling, riding and picnicking. The summit offers panoramic views of the Lake Naivasha and the expansive Great Rift Valley floor including several other bluffs and smaller mountains like mt. Suswa.

Activities in Mt. Longonot National Park

Like Hell's Gate, Mount Longonot offers a wide range of attractions for visitors keen on activity holidays, including hiking, rock climbing, biking as well as bird and wildlife viewing. K.W.S. rangers are available as guides.

Accommodation in Longonot Mountain Park

Accommodation within these parks is limited. Hell's Gate has three campsites; Longonot has no accommodation within the park. However a fabulous range of nearby hotels, lodges, luxury ranch and home stays around Lake Naivasha provide ample accommodation for all budgets.

Hell?s Gate National Park

Hell?s gate is an ideal family gateway for a day trip from Nairobi or stopover en-route to Lake Nakuru or the Maasai Mara, located just beyond Lake Naivasha. Hell?s gate national park is famous for its natural hot geyser, eagle and vulture breeding grounds, visitors have the choice of driving, walking, camping, cycling and rock climbing within the park. Kenya Horseback safaris are also arranged.

Special features

There are special locations for that spectacular view including Fisher's Tower, formerly a volcano's plug, the Central Tower and Njorowa Gorges. There are also two extinct volcanoes: Olkaria and Honley's are worth a trip. There are natural steam vents rise from cracks in the volcanic rock. Obsidian, a striking black glassy rock formed from cooled molten lava is a feature of this landscape.

Wildlife and animals of Hell?s gate national park

There is a lot of plains game but the cats family is not well represented here. Wild life in the park include: Coke's Hartebeest, buffalo, Maasai Giraffe, eland, lion, leopard and some cheetah. The park is a haven for birders and rock climbers, the cliffs of Hell's Gate are breeding grounds for vultures, Verreaux's Eagles, aigur buzzard and thousands of swifts; 103 species of bird have been recorded in the park.

Hell?s gate National Park facts and figures

The Hell?s gate stands at 5,000-7,000ft above sea level and covers an area of 68sq. kms. Hell?s gate is located 90kms from Nairobi and was opened in 1984. Game viewing includes Lions, buffalo and giraffe. The park is a traditional Eagle nesting ground with spectacular gorge walk. Other special features include hot springs in the natural open and air saunas.

Activities in Hell?s gate safari park

Activities undertaken in the park include game walking, camping, rock climbing, cycling and horse riding. There is also a Masai cultural center that show cases the traditions of the Masai and sells their bead work and curios for the valuable souvenir.

Robert is a east Africa Kenya safari expert and director of landmarksafaris.com. To select some of the best walking safaris in Kenya see here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php/?refferer=ezinearticles

Northern Kenya Overland Safari - Top Kenya Northern Overland Trips

2008-02-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

Northern Kenya tourism circuit and attractions

Northern Kenya is more an experience than a series of destinations. There?s constantly something catching your eye, whether its Gabbra tribespeople walking the shattered lava fields, extinct volcanoes rising from deserts seas, or the road tracking across the plains. All who visit this wild, diverse region leave cherishing something different, that they?ll never forget.

That said, some things will be ingrained in every visitor?s psyche. The complete and utter beauty of the ?jade sea? (Lake Turkana), whose baking, barren shores stretch over the horizon to a distant Ethiopia some 250 km away, cant be overstated.

The many tribes of northern Kenya are some of the most fascinating people on earth- a glimpse into their world is priceless. Unique wildlife, like the reticulated giraffe and endangered Grevy?s Zebra, also call northern Kenya home, mixing with lions, elephants and Oryxes in the varied landscapes of Samburu, buffalo springs and Shaba National Reserves.

For those with energy to burn, there?s great hiking around Marich, Mararal, Marsabit and Ndoto Mountains. If walking isn?t your thing, it?s also perfect for a camel safari.

Where there?s reward, there?s usually risk and northern Kenya is no exception. Don?t expect it to be easy-the roads will batter your behind and your 4WD. But you?ll love every minute of it.

Geography of northern Kenya

Northern Kenya?s diverse landscapes are truly amazing. Deserts range from large tracts of scrub, dissected by luggas (dry river beds that burst into violent life after heavy rains)-and peppered with acacia trees, to Chalbi?s inhospitable black stones and Karoli?s soft sands.

Massive yet gently sloping, the dormant shield volcanoes of Mt. Kulal and Mt. Marsabit climb from barren plains to provide forested havens for humans and animals, while countless steep, Martian-like stratovolcanos burst from lava fields and Lake Turkana?s waters. In other areas such as North Horr, craggy peaks shelter clear streams that flow through valley oases of lush vegetation.

Lake Turkana is the North?s most renowned geographic feature and covers an amazing 6405 sqkm, making it earth?s largest permanent desert lake.

Climate

The climate here reflects the landscape?s incredible contrasts. Temperatures on the plains can reach 50o C, without a breath of wind, only for the desert?s dead calm to be shattered by sudden violent thunderstorms that drench everything and disappear as quickly as they came. It?s not uncommon to experience several weather systems during the day and still sleep under clear, star studded skies.

The lone constant is the stiffing heat and strong winds around Lake Turkana.

Highlights of Northern Kenya

The most exciting highlights of Northern Kenya include a variety of experiences depending on where is being visited in the region. The attractions are as diverse as can be including mountains, desert lands, lakes and wildlife. Some of the most captivating highlights of Northern Kenya include

Thanking the heavens for the sight of Lake Turkana and thanking your lucky stars that your tires survived to get you there.

Witnessing the temperature dropping and volcanic cinder cones climbing on Mt Marsabit, a forested island in a sea of desert.

Sharing a smile and some shade with Kenya?s most captivating tribes in South Horr, Loiyangalani or Lodwar

Experiencing the spectacular scenery and wildlife while staying at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and learning about their community and conservation programs.

Realizing Zebras do change their stripes in Samburu National Reserve, home to the rare Grevy?s Zebra species.

Searching for words atop Mt Poi in the remote Ndoto Mountains

Drooling uncontrollably at Lesiolo

Robert is a travel expert in Kenya east Africa and tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. Make a free enquiry on best overland/self drive Northern Kenya safari here. http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/?refferer=ezinearticles

Northern Kenya Safaris - Top Kenya North Safari - Overland Kenya Tours

2008-02-12T22:38:00.000-08:00

National Parks Of Northern Kenya

From the celebrated African animals of today, thriving along the Ewaso Ngiro
River?s lush banks in the Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs National Reserve, to
the fossilized evidence of early humans and prehistoric animals sitting beneath
the scorching soils of Sibiloi National Park on Lake Turkana?s northern shore, northern
Kenya?s National Parks and reserves cover a breadth of landscapes, wilderness and
history unimaginable elsewhere.

Also intriguing is Marsabit National Park, whose rich forest and shy Big Five
population rest on the cool slopes of a massive volcano rising gently out of the
baking northern plains. Dramatic volcano-landscapes of an entirely different manifestation
burst bleakly from Lake Turkana?s waters and form South Island and Central Island
National Parks, which, together with Sibiloi comprise a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Getting there

Daily Air Kenya and safari link services link Samburu National Reserve and Lewa
Wildlife conservancy with Nanyuki, Meru and Nairobi (Wilson Airport)

Bus & Matatu Countless bus and matatu services enter northern Kenya from the
central and west highlands.

Getting Around 4WD Having your own 4WD gives you flexibility, but comes with
its own challenges thanks to wide-ranging road conditions. For starters you?ll need
a large 4X4 (a Toyota RAV4 or Suzuki won?t do) with high ground clearance and a
skid plate to protect the undercarriage.

You should have a high-rise jack, sand ladders, a shovel, a long, strong rope
or chain (to hitch up to camels or other vehicles) plus enough fuel, water and spare
tires (one is rarely enough). A compass and good map are also invaluable.

Bus & Matatu There?s now regular public transport as far north as Kalokol and
Lokichoggio on Turkana?s west side, but it?s more limited up the lake?s east side,
only reaching Mararal Via Nyahururu or Isiolo. With improved security, buses now
run from Isiolo to Moyale on the Ethiopian border via Marsabit.

Hitching Hopping onto the top of a dusty transport truck with locals has long
been as uncomfortable, dirty and somehow mildly enchanting way to travel around
northern Kenya. However, improved bus services mean that Loyangalani is the only
major destination that still requires hitching.

To enjoy the experience you must throw out your schedule and accept that you?ll
spend days waiting for rides. Its no free ride either, with most drivers charging
between Kshs 2 and Kshs 5 per kilometer. Security is another issue, as bandits are
more interested in cattle trucks than buses, and for this reason hitching can?t
be recommended unreservedly.

Northern Kenya overland Safaris & organised trips

A few kenya organised safaris and kenya overland trucks now go to lake Turkana?s
west, but most still stick to the lakes east side. Average Kenya overland trips
are seven-to-10-days long and they typically follow the same route.

Other options include camel safaris, although treks down into the Suguta valley
should be approached with caution for security reasons.

Generally, if doing a self drive northern Kenya safari, you may need to make
stops in towns between long and lonely stretches to enquire about the road and security
conditions. Where possible, wait for the next departing convoy as these are given
armed escort, since the police won?t have enough personnel to offer you individual
escort.

A rule of the thumb here is to always consider any information gathered before
hand (no matter how extensive) as outdated until updated by locals at these pit
stops. You will be surprised at how friendly and helpful these local souls can be
to travelers in the region.

Robert is a travel expert in Kenya east Africa and tour consultant with Landmark
Safaris. Make a free enquiry on best Northern Kenya overland/self drive safari here.

http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/?refferer=ezinearticles

How To Prepare For An African Safari And Stay Safe

2008-02-12T22:36:00.000-08:00

An African Safari should be the holiday of a lifetime... for many, it's proven somewhat of a nightmare simply because they failed to prepare properly for their trip!

Whether you are taking and african lion safari, travelling to South Africa's Kruger National Park or Tanzania's magnificent Serengeti, basic preparation is vital if you plan on enjoying your experience.

What You Need To Take On African Safari

It's amazing how often the simple things are overlooked. For example safari wear is vital. On this trip though you don't want to be too overburded with luggage in fact, travelling light is always best.

What to wear on safari? It's light clothing in summer and light and heavy during winter. Days can be hot in many parts of Africa however, the nights can be extremely cool. There are some pretty friendly insects in mighty Africa so insect repellant is a must while sunscreen is also a good idea along with a hat or hats!

Be on your guard all the time, particularly in urban areas and I.D. should be with you all the time; even when you go to bed at night, make sure it's in a place you can remember.

Popular Safari Destinations

African lion safaris are always popular. With the african lion coming under scrutiny in recent years with dwindling numbers many people are taking advantage of seeing this magnificent beast in the wild.

Some of the more popular lion safari destinations include the Masai Mara National reserve in Kenya, particularly during the months of the wildbeest migration. South Africa's vast Kruger National Park, Botswana's magnificent Central Kalahari, Chobe and Linyati parks and Tanzania's famous reserves, from the Serengeti to Lake Victoria.

The african lion is not the only famous "jungle icon" you'll witness in this amazing landscape. One of Africa's great attraction is it's landscape extremes. From thick jungle to open plains and waterways, if you are a student of photography then you'll be in your element.

What Safari Do You Prefer?

The available safaris on offer are numerous and it can be tough to decide. Walking safaris are excellent because you are on the ground getting "down and dirty" in deep, darkest Africa. Walking safaris are very well guided and if you are a first time visitor, travelling with experienced safari enthusiasts is recommended.

Mobile safaris are the most popular. Africa is vast and being mobile is the easiest and quickest way to see it. Fly-ins are a little more expensive but seeing Africa from the sky is an opportunity most don't experience and if you can afford it, it's well worth the expense!

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Get the latest tips and tricks in preparing for an African Safari.You need to know these before heading off!Plus, read the latest african safari related news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com/wp

Your African Safari By Design

2008-02-11T01:26:00.000-08:00

When you ask anyone you know about their last or most favorite vacation they will probably go into great detail about how wonderful it was. Most people will paint you a mental picture of the scenery and all the things to do. Of course, if it rained at all while they were there you will hear about that too. That kind of information may very well make you want to go there, but it doesn?t help you to plan and design a perfect vacation, like an African Safari.

You might think an African Safari is a vacation for a Teddy Roosevelt type person, but not necessarily. You have choices, lots of them.

The planning process for your trip to Africa is like other vacations only more intense. It is intense, unless you have a plan for how to make your plans. You just have to add a lot of special considerations when planning. For starters, why do you want to go? Is it something you have always wanted to do and are passionate about it? Is it a simple case of seeking adventure? Do you want to experience the animals and other products of nature? Maybe you never saw yourself on a safari until your research told you it is much more than hunting very large animals.

You know about the animals. What else do you expect to get out of your vacation? Probably most people think of lions and tigers when they paint their mental picture of Africa. You do have other options. Would you like your African Safari to focus on tracking? Maybe you would prefer a hiking theme. How about an astrological or a photography theme safari? Still not decided? How about a cycling or marine theme?

How much it will cost you varies. Although ?off-the-shelf? African Safaris are available, most safaris are customized for each person or group. The safaris are designed based on what season you are interested in and how long you will be staying. Of course, it also depends on the number of people in your group and what accommodations you want. Your lodging may range from military style tents and cots to pure luxury. What area of Africa are you interested in? Do you want to go to more than one country while you are there? It is your option.

You will have some decisions to make about what you want after you initially arrive in Africa. You may choose to fly into the actual area of the safari, or pick the more traditional over land and canoe route. If you wish the use of a motorized vehicle, you will have to include that in your planning. They are optional.

What about the time of year? You will want to consider the season and climate when planning your life-changing trip to Africa. Most likely, the climate during any given time of the year is not the same as your hometown.

So surf the Internet. Get some kind of a feel for all of things there are to do on an African Safari. Make a list of what is most interesting to you. Find out what time of year you will be going. What is the weather usually like there at that time? Of course, what do you take for clothing? How many people are going? What is the theme of your safari? Make a budget. Decide what kind of accommodations you want or need. What means of transportation will work for you when you arrive in Africa? What or how many countries do you want to visit as a part of your vacation? If you build your African Safari using a design based on good planning, it may very well change your life.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to African Safaris

African Canoeing Photography Safari in the Okavango Delta - Botswana

2008-02-09T01:04:00.001-08:00

Have you ever wanted to camp in the bush and photograph African wildlife in a vast green and lush landscape of water teaming with all kinds of animals? Then take a canoe safari in the Okavango Delta. Recently, a small group of us went on a canoeing safari to photograph wildlife in the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, where some of the greatest variety of wildlife and best-protected delta environments in Africa are located. Often described as "the river which never finds the sea," the 1300 km long Okavango River forms a massive delta, in northwest Botswana, in Southern Africa. The river eventually disappears into a labyrinth of shallow channels, lagoons and islands, forming lush, swampy wetlands that would cover an area the size of Massachusetts. Having spent the previous two weeks camping in the deserts of Namibia, my partners and I felt that we had found an oasis when we first saw the dazzling green vegetation and the brilliant clear waters of the delta.

On the evening we arrived at our Okavango base camp, we were greeted by a South African named Victor. He was a mirror of this wild world, with a gentle easiness in his movements that seemed to reflect the pace of life around us and red-clay skin that told of much time spent under the African sun. Part of his job was to alert all visitors going out on the Mokoro Trail of the dangerous perils we could encounter.

"There are any number of potentially fatal situations you might find yourself in," he said, his speech thick with an Afrikaans accent. "You must be vigilant at all times. If elephants come into the camp tonight, which they will, don't startle them. Leopards too --we just saw one here last night. If you meet one on the trail, just stand still they will get confused and go away. Never, ever run -- from any cat. If you run, consider it your last run!"

We listened attentively as he continued with the whole list, which included black mambas, puff adders, hyenas, crocodiles and hippos, the most dangerous animal in all of Africa.

"There is so much life here. Don't be afraid. Enjoy everything that this place has to offer -- there is so much to see and appreciate here. One woman came here and everyday she'd go out looking for lion and everyday she came back disappointed when she didn't see any. She noticed nothing else. " He shook his head. "And she left here never seeing a lion -- never seeing anything."

"The way of life here is slow, but it has a very soothing rhythm -- something that western societies seem to have lost. Try to fall into this rhythm, to become for a short while totally in tune with nature and its daily ebbs and flows."

The next day we head out with our guides in the mokoros, which are hand hewn wooden canoes and we drift slowly through the clear delta waters. These wetlands are filled with reed, papyrus and water lilies as well as acacia, leadwood and sausage trees, which are used to carve out the mokoros. The shallow dugout canoes appear precarious, but are amazingly stable and ideally suited to being propelled by a pole through the shallow waters.

Wildebeest and red leechwe keep their eye on our slow progress through the marsh grasses and an Africa fish eagle swoops down from its lofty perch to scan the waters for a meal. A few white egrets and a great blue heron prowl the reeds along the shore as I dip my cup into the fast flowing channel for a sip of the cool clear waters. Victor assured us that the bilharzia-free waters were safe to drink. The waters have been naturally filtered through miles of grasses and reeds and tested many times for bacteria content. He hadn't heard of anyone ever getting ill from drinking the water. As the sun grows hot, our guides edge the mokoros onto the grassy bank.

"You swim now," Gobolya announces.

"Right here?" We ask.

"Yes, here. It's OK."

My sweaty companions and I survey the water, each of us wondering who would be the first one in. Though it looked tempting, I recalled the guidebook warnings we had read back at base camp: "Swim only where your guide recommends. Be the last one in and the first one out. If a croc gets you, go for the eyes with your thumbs. And never go anywhere near a hippo. Good luck." African humor at its best. With no crocs in sight, we took our chances and jumped in. After not having had a shower for two days, the water had a wonderful cleansing effect on us. And the thrill of swimming where danger lurked gave us another tale for fireside reminiscences.

This is a magical place, full of wonderful images of the enchanted waters of glistening blues and shimmering greens and mystical sounds of life drifting through the marsh grasses and the scent of moist earth, wild animals and distant rain. Go explore the Okavango with all of your senses and you?ll have the experience of a lifetime, as well as innumerable photos as your prize.

Deborah Dennis is the author of Adventures of Women, a web site dedicated to making everyday a new adventure.

She is also a writer, a travel photographer, a professional web designer and an adventurer.

She has tracked black rhinos, chased lions in the Okavango Delta, rafted down the Zambezi River, hiked up Machu Picchu, sailed a bareboat in Tonga, got lost in a rain forest in Thailand, dove the Great White Wall in Fiji, sea kayaked in Baja, & outrigger canoed in British Columbia to get her photographs and stories.

Malaria Free Safari in South Africa

2008-02-07T22:27:00.001-08:00

The Eastern Cape is South Africa's second largest and most diverse province

It's a great sun, sand a sea destination with a coastline that runs from temperate rocky shores in the south to sub-tropical beaches in the north. There is a beach for every reason - from highly developed urban playgrounds to wild and untamed stretches of wae-washed sand. It has some of the best surf in the country - make that some of the best surf in the world. The small towns of Jeffreys Bay and St Francis Bay are renowned and very popular surf destinations and the Wild Coast has some legendary (and mostly secret) breaks.

The Eastern Cape is not classic lowveld, which is the vegetation type found around the Kruger National Park and is most usually associated with big game. However, this province has some awesome safari destinations. The Greater Addo Elephant National Park, near the town of Addo, conserves a staggering diverstiy of plant and animal life. There are a number of private game lodges, both in the national park and in surrounding private reserves. Best of all - it's totally malaria free. South Africa's first and - to date - only serious commercial ski resort is in the high-lying northern part of the Eastern Cape. OK, it's not exactly Chamonix or Aspen - but its is skiing in Africa. Snowboarding's big, too.

The Eastern Cape's cultural heritage is particularly varied and interesting, and thre are so many interpretive tours, museums and monuments, you'll never be bored. Towns that will particularly appeal to more culturally minded visitors include Graaff-Reinet and Grahamstown.

Nieu Bethesda, which is close to Graaff-Reinet, is a funky little village that owes its poularity to the existence of the Owl House, which is South Africa's most well known example of outsider art. Port Elizabeth is renowned for its excellent township and cultural tours. The Nelson Mandela Museum in Umtata is a loving tribute to South Africa's first president. Thre are great tours along the Wild Coast, on which you get to spend time with the local people and see how they live. The Grahamstown Festival or, more accurately, the National Festival of the Arts, which showcases a huge variety of South Africa's visual and performance arts, is held in Grahamstown at the beginning of July.

There are some excellent golf courses, but they're not all as conveniently close together as they are, for example, on the Garden Route. Some of the better courses are to be found in or near Port Elizabeth, Port Alfred, East London and Port Edward. A brand new golf course has been built at the rather interesting town of Alicedale, which is experiencing a huge economic revival after spending years as a virtual ghost town.

Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za/

African Lion Safari - Are You Running Out Of Time!

2008-02-06T21:50:00.001-08:00

What can you expect on an African lion safari? The African lion once ruled the wilds of Africa. Today, it has been humbled to the extent where it's future is a little shaky, in fact, there is still a possibility this king of the animal kingdom may have to relinquish it's crown because of a little thing called progress.

So what cost progress? In lion terms, it's been heavy. If an African lion safari is something you crave then it might be a good idea to make the trip sooner rather than later.

The Lion's Demise

The african lion's numbers have been a cause for great concern in recent times in fact, there has even been talk of extinction. It's a dirty word in the world of conservation and while the lion presents as a creature of indestructible dimensions, the sad fact is, the one creature on the planet capable of wiping it out, man, has been responsible for it's dwindling numbers.

Take for example just over 100 years ago, the African lion was around in numbers south of the Sahara desert. Today, it's almost got to the stage where the only place you can see the king of the beasts in it's "natural habitat" are large conservation parks. The reason; man's yearning for progress.

African Lion Facts

The lion is unquestionably at the top of the food chain in Africa. The fact remains, if the lion's demise becomes permanent, then the repercussions for some of Africa's ecosystems could be dramatic. The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one area where the survival of the lion is imperitive.

Keeping The African Lion On The Planet

In some parts of Africa the sounds of the lion are no longer heard. It has succumbed to the tunes of progress and has vanished from areas where it once ruled.

Free ranging lions are now in the minority but there is a glimmer of hope in the shape of some hardy individuals hell bent on ensuring the lion's survival. Why does it seem like such a lone battle? Amazing as it sounds, while conservation groups realise the predicament at the moment, convincing those in authority with the power and the finance to fund rescue operations has been a little retarded.

In Central and Western Africa, free ranging lion populations are critically low and it's been a tough battle to keep the big cat's future on the up and up.

Where To See The Lion In The Wild?

One of the more popular African lion safari destinations is the vast expanse of the Serengeti in Tanzania. Migration time across the Serengeti is a treasure trove of activity and it's one of the few times you'll get to see the normally placid big cat get off it's backside and chase prey. And there is plenty of prey to chase as wildbeast begin their amazing migration.

Your travel agent is a great source of information on lion safaris and there are excellent opportunities for travel with experienced operators ready and willing to get you up close and personal with the king. Well, not too close but enough to give you a lasting memory.

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Get the latest information on African lion safari.We'll tell you why now is a good time to think about taking one! Plus, read the latest african safari related news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com/wp

Bird Watching in Africa - A Different Type of Safari Adventure

2008-02-05T22:08:00.001-08:00

Although bird watching is an activity that can be done virtually anywhere on the planet, Africa remains one of the most popular destinations on the planet for a bird watch adventure. Specifically, there is a substantial portion of the tourism industry in Southern Africa that is meeting the needs of bird watching in Africa. Service providers recognize the needs and desires of bird enthusiasts and create safaris and adventures designed with the serious bird watcher in mind.

What Region is Best?

Bird Watching in Africa is also popular on the Eastern portion of the continent. The bulk of the tourism is in the South, but a larger number of species exist in the Eastern nations of Kenya and Tanzania than anywhere else. Boasting over 1300 species, bird watchers in Eastern Africa have the opportunity to see 15% of the world's bird population in one trip. While the number is not so striking in the South, it is still substantial at 920 species. This equates to about 10% of the world's known species.

The nations that make up the Southern bird watch areas are Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. South Africa specifically provides a number of government sponsored parks and reserves where avian life is abundant. Any birder who is interested in researching bird watching in Africa should be sure to look at Kruger National Park, Ndumu Game Reserve, Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, West Coast National Park, the De Hoop Nature Reserve, and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. These locations provide prime habitat for many of the countries' 900 species of birds, and ensure that your trip will include many varieties of bird watching opportunities.

When considering East Africa for bird watching, Kenya provides a diverse range of opportunities. From the Central Highlands, which are heavily forested, to the lower lying lakes region, Kenya is a haven for many of Eastern Africa's bird species. When considering Kenya, be sure to check out Aberdare National Park, Amboseli National Park, Lake Baringo, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Mount Kenya National Park and the Kakamego Forest Reserve. Several of these parks also serve as the home to various species of primates that are sure to attract your attention as you keep your binoculars turned towards the trees searching for birds.

Make the Most of this Incredible Bird Watching Destination

As with any major investment, make sure that you know what you are getting before you put any money on the table to go bird watching in Africa. There are a large number of service providers who will be competing for your business, and you should make sure that you are getting exactly what you want. Research the outfitter you choose. Read reviews and don't be afraid to talk to other people who have used them. Do whatever is necessary to ensure that you get the most out of every precious dollar that you lay down for this once in a lifetime trip.

Mike Selvon is the owner of various niche portal. Our bird feeder portal contains some useful information about bird watching in Africa.

How About An Environmental Travel Kenya Safari

2008-02-04T21:44:00.001-08:00

Ever heard of the famous Professor Wangari Maathai? She is a Nobel Peace Price Laurreate, the Member of Parliament for Tetu Constitituency, the founder and leader of the Green Belt Movement. With so many attributes to her name, she is the so down to earth Lady that you may not pick up from the large crowds she pulls campaining for the conservation of the environment both Globally and in Kenya, where she was born and Brought up.

Like in many many other countries in the world, Kenya has had its share of deforestation through illegal logging, land degradation by use rudimentally farming practices and burning of fossil fuels leading to the Global warming threat, where the world is expected to warm up by over 2 degrees centgrade over the next 100 years. It expected that increased temperature changes could lead to drastic and erratic weather changes with some parts of the world becoming either too hot or too cold. This is going to affect food production to an ever growing population especially in the less deveoped african countries making human survival harder than in any other period in the history of mankind.

Professor Wangari Maathai has has taken the leading role in organising communities and Non-Governmental organizations into condemming land grabbing, degazettement of forest land and illegal logging, throgh her Green Belt movement. Many youth groups and women organizations have taken the cue from her and started indigenous tree nurseries all over kenya. These initiatives are going to change the face of Kenya, making your dreams of that covetted Safari even more interesting, imagine all the bare countryside coming to life with lush green indegenous trees that save our soils from the from raging rain waters running into the rivers that feed our National animal conservatories.

As a tourist in Kenya, you could get involved. Lets call it an environmental Safari. You could help plant a tree or two. Let us exchange views. What is your country doing to conserve the environment? What lessons can Kenyans learn from from your countrys' conservation efforts? Do you have an alternative to fuel wood that 90% of kenyans use? What will Kenya do with the menace of plastic waste management? The list is endless, but the options are there with you and the whole lot of us will appreciate.

Kenyans are a very hospitable people. They wil not mind to host you as a tourist as you travel to other covetted tourist destinations scattered all over the country. Talk of budget travel and you have it, it cannot come cheaper. There are many diverse tribes in Kenya and you are sure to be treated to the many traditional cuisine that are prepared in the countryside. You will also be treated to the many cultural events, unique to each cultural group.

Mwathe Jaqueline is a tour operator and has been organizing and reporting on Vacation, Travel and Tours for years. For more information on Environmental Travel Kenya, visit her site at

Hotel Nairobi Kenya - Safari Park Hotel Nairobi Finest Kenya Hotel

2008-02-03T22:09:00.001-08:00

Safari Park Hotel - Nairobi

Developed in the 50s as a British Army officer?s retreat, the Safari Park Hotel has grown since the colonial period to a bastion of excellence as a world acclaimed inland lodge resort. The current complex is a complete redefinition of the humble officer?s retreat of the years gone by. Located in the northern suburbs of Nairobi, the safari park hotel is ideal as a getaway within 15 minutes of the town centre. Located only 15 minutes from downtown Nairobi, you will experience the fast pace of the city while escaping back to the expansive serenity of the hotel.

African ambience at the safari park Hotel

Built in a staggering 64 acres of land, the safari park hotel combines the intrigues of African hospitality and unrivalled modernity sprawled in excruciatingly well manicured gardens full of thorn trees and green lawns. This external ambience is amplified by the exquisite African architecture of the interior and art. The hotel combines cutting edge technology in its architecture and infrastructure creating a monolith yet beautiful and appealing touch.

Friendly and helpful staff

At safari park hotel, not only the wild flowers and imposing trees shine but you are greeted by the ever smiling faces at the reception. On arrival, the doorman will treat you like a long gone friend coming back home and the receptionist will welcome you with expected but always welcome and comforting smiles, if only to forget the rigors of the day that was. Attention to your needs is very high here and you almost feel like you are being treated like king if not taking too much of their time.

Rooms at the Safari park hotel Nairobi

The safari park hotel has 30 deluxe rooms where you wind down with the fresh air from the balcony of your room or in any of the 174 luxury rooms. Rooms here are way larger than the world standards and you almost feel like you are back home without the usual feeling of enclosure in many hotels

Rooms Facilities of this Nairobi Kenya hotel

The rooms are fitted with large four poster beds, color televisions with CNN and in-house movies. There are lavish marble and gold bathrooms set in a uniquely African style with a standard of comfort straight from Europe. The rooms also have fully stocked minibar and 24 hour room service of the sumptuous cuisines the hotel has to offer.

Restaurants in safari park Nairobi

The safari parks seven international restaurants include the African, Chinese, French, Italian, Japanese, Indian and Continental. The hotel guarantees that you will be spoilt for choice in each of these international culinary oriented standards of its restaurants. Each themed restaurant has a speciality chef from these countries who makes sure food is as good as it takes in its source region.

The innovation in presentation of the food is enough to make your taste buds ache for that ultimate bite of the dishes on offer. Accompaniment to the dinning experience is in the form of a solo piano player or a 7-piece band providing that extra touch toward your total enjoyment.

The Japanese restaurant with its Tepanyaki style Chiyo defines style. Never has dining taken on more creativity and color than in the Tepanyaki style Chiyo, Japanese restaurant. You will delve at the sights, sounds and smells of fresh delicacies being expertly prepared on your steel table by Chef Song and his staff.

For those that like to dine outside with the breeze, you can relax under the giant trees at the Kivuli (shade) terrace or enjoy a bite or drink after a swim by the refreshing pool-side menu. The green landscape and waterfalls will dazzle your senses and give you that feeling of never wanting to leave the safari park.

Entertainment and night in the Nairobi Hotel

As the sun goes down up comes the vibrant night life at the safari park. You are again spoilt for choice of night entertainment. The Cats Club, nightclub will invigorate you with the regions hottest discoth?que or soothes you with the soulful sounds of its contemporary piano bar. The Kivuli, Kigwa or Casino bars offer you a variety in ambiance and quenching specialties of the house.

Nairobi Safari Park Extra Sport Facilities

Other activity facilities at the safari park include the largest swimming pool in Africa, over 2000 square meters in size. The hotel has two tennis courts that are flood lit by night. There are also 2 squash courts in the hotel premises. If yours is a more outdoor approach, horse riding lessons and programs can be arranged during your stay at the safari park hotel.

In addition the safari Fitness Health club has Jacuzzis, sauna, steam room, professional gymnasium and aerobic studio. A professional instructor is available to assist guests with their specific athletic needs. Masseuse services are also available at the Safari Park Hotel.

Robert is a travel expert in Kenya east Africa and tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. Make a free enquiry on the type of Jacuzzi hotel in Kenya you need here. http://www.landmarksafaris.com/hotel/?refferer=ezinearticles

Safari In South Africa - 7 Things To Do You Mustn't Miss Whilst On Your South Africa Luxury Safari

2008-02-01T22:25:00.001-08:00

Safari in South Africa - Safari as described in the dictionary says, "an overland expedition ...", so we have taken poetic licence to include many excursions overland to see spectacular sights. Here in no particular order are our top 7 things to do South Africa guide.

Idea 1 - Swim with the Penguins. A sight not to be missed! African Penguins living alongside humans on Boulders beach. Share your swim in the warmer Indian Ocean waters with these special birds who take it all in their stride.

Idea 2 - Walk or be whisked up Table Mountain. Don't forget to take warm clothing even on the hottest day, as the air is very much cooler up there. The views from the cable car and the top are breathtaking.

Idea 3 - Drive the Panorama Drive and pass through God's Window! What more could you wish for than to see the most dramatic of scenery on this drive through Mpumalanga north of Johannesburg through the Blyde River Canyon. Don't forget to take in Bourke's Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels and The Pinnacle along the route.

Idea 4 - Soweto. This really is an experience not to be missed and is definitely a place you must visit for yourself to make up your own mind. Discover the true story of Hector Pietersen and where Nelson Mandela lived before his incarceration on Robben Island.

Idea 5 - The Otter Trail through Tsitsikamma Forest. Take the hike through the most spectacular of scenery along the rugged coastline with secluded valleys and deep river gorges plunging down to the sea. Watch out for the numerous birds including the Emerald Cuckoo, Knysna and olive Woodpecker, Chorister Robin and Grey Cuckooshrike.

Idea 6 - Kimberley's Big Hole is literally a huge hole created by diamond miners in their rush to dig out the diamonds lying on the surface of a nearby hill. Needless to say that the hill is no more and the diamonds have been exhausted too! But the hole is still a sight to be seen.

Idea 7 - Kruger National Park. No trip to South Africa would be complete without a visit to this territory the size of Wales. Rich in both flora and fauna, this truly is a national park for everyone and offers everyone a unique experience whether you stay in a tent or on one of the many luxury safari lodges.

Want to find out more about South Africa? I invite you to visit http://www.TailorMadeSouthAfricaTravel.com for more ideas on what to expect on your safari in South Africa.

Would you like to get our free guide "The 9 Surefire ways to have the Safari in South Africa you always wanted" and get our newletter Johannesburg to Cape Town monthly delivered to your inbox. Visit http://www.tailormadesouthafricatravel.com/travel-resources/

A Fun Gadget For Kids - The Backyard Safari Bug Vacuum

2008-02-01T00:58:00.000-08:00

As a father of two young youths, we are always seeking fun gadgets to play with. Our most favorite fun gadget ever is the Backyard Safari Bug Vacuum. This toy captures bugs through the use of a battery operated gun-style vacuum. The insects are sucked into a clear plastic capsule that is complete with a magnifying glass for viewing.

The Summer Of The Insect Adventure

In total honesty, we played with this fun gadget the entire summer. We caught every tiny insect that we could capture. The vacuum is powerful enough to suck most insects directly into the attached holding capsule, yet it isn?t strong enough to injure the insects. The holding capsule is complete with a magnifying glass and a flip bottom so that the insects can be easily viewed and released once the observation is complete.

A Complete World Of Fun Gadgets For Insect Observations

Backyard Safari has created supplemental fun gadget that work with the bug vacuum. The bug habitat is large enough to accommodate a number of insects. However you want to insure that you do not combine insects that consume one another or you will have an entirely different observation within moments.

If your child enjoys long walks while bug collecting, there are pocket size bug habitats that your child can attach to a backpack or belt loop. These tiny pocket watch shaped habitats provide the perfect environment for a short-term guest. There are two different designs, one design is intended for any type of bug and the other is designed specifically as an ant habitat.

The Backyard Safari Bug Vacuum is a fun gadget for any boy or girl. I must admit, as fun gadgets go, this also makes a great spider catcher inside the house as well and would be a hit with many moms.

Anmol Taneja is a Gadget enthusiast and critique. He has written several articles on various aspects of gadgets and the role they play in our day to day lives. Anmol is involved with several organizations involved in the evaluation and review of gadgets including http://gadgets.in thegadgetcast.com and gadgetenclave.in

Baby Shower Idea - Animal Antics On African Safari Crib Bedding At Baby Shower

2008-02-01T00:57:00.001-08:00

A baby shower idea that can lead to heart-stopping, imaginary adventures in the African Bush is a set of African Safari baby crib bedding. Imagine how much fun a mom-to-be and her precious baby is going to have exploring all the animal antics brought to life on innovative African Safari baby crib bedding fabrics. It is a worthwhile baby shower idea to team up with a few friends and give a really useful set of baby crib bedding or cot bed bedding.

Equipping a nursery with anything from Bellini baby furniture to Dutailier glider rockers, is an expensive venture. Helping out with a crib bedding set, chosen to coordinate with the baby furniture, will be a much appreciated baby shower idea. If you do a bit of homework, you should know what type of baby nursery theme the parents would enjoy, as well as the color scheme they have in mind.

Wendy Bellissimo Introduces Baby To The Wonders Of The Animal Kingdom

Wendy Bellissimo Petite Safari baby crib bedding is a popular baby shower idea, as she understands the knack of bringing the animal kingdom to life in a colorful way. This baby shower idea would be a welcome change from the over commercialized, very frilly babyish themes sometimes dominating this market.

The Glenna Jean African Safari baby crib bedding set can also be used when planning your baby shower idea, although the colors are more muted and perhaps not the best choice for stimulating a baby. Glenna Jean African Safari crib bedding includes a printed quilt with a sage green border, and is finished in red gingham piping. A cream chenille crib bumper, fitted sheet and dust ruffle completes the set.

If you combine your resources with friends in planning your baby shower idea, you may be able to add accessories such as the window shade, a valance with a palm tree and leopard print, the diaper stacker and the adorable musical mobile with soft elephants and other animal characters.

Also in the running for featuring in an African Safari bedding baby shower idea, is the Kidsline Zanzibar crib bedding set. This 6-piece cot bedding set is enchanting for either a little boy or a little girl. It steers clear of the more common pink or blue baby stuff. The animal antics of this baby shower idea takes place against a backdrop of beige and green. The set has a tranquil, yet warm feel.

The set includes the usual crib bumper, a luxurious quilt, the fitted sheet, a crib skirt, the valance and the diaper stacker. Sensory stimulation has been kept in mind during manufacturing, and a variety of fabric textures have been incorporated in the design. The Kidsline Zanzibar nightlight will become a much used accessory when scary night-time monsters start to make their appearance...

Another African Safari bedding baby shower idea comes from Brandee Danielle. Her On Safari bedding set features a cozy quilt, a soft crib bumper, fitted sheet and crib skirt. Your friends can opt for the hamper, extra fluffy pillows, a lamp shade, a cute mobile, the window valance, or a colorful On Safari wall hanging.

Baby Shower Idea Leads To Monkey Business

Who knew monkeys could be purple and yellow? The Monkey See, Monkey Do baby crib bedding set is another African Safari baby shower idea. This set by Anna Claire Crib Bedding includes a baby quilt, bumper, dust ruffle, and sheet. The bedding set is machine washable. The characters are lovable, vibrant, and lively. Any infant will fall in love these adorable animal friends.

Also take a look at the Kidsline Swazi African Safari baby crib bedding set while weighing your baby shower idea options. This line features colorful, charming characters.

Why not make it an authentic African Safari baby shower theme, with cuddly animal toys as extra baby shower gifts? Use lively African Safari images on the free baby shower invitations. Scour the internet for baby shower games and favors with an African theme.

Just remember: with all these animals let loose in the baby nursery, your African Safari baby shower idea will probably sentence your friend to raising a spirited young adventurer...

Cribs-for-Babies.com - For more information read Wendy Bellissimo Petite Safari 4-Piece Crib Set - So Petite Baby Bedding Safari at Cribs-For-Babies.com - by Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com, where you will discover the number one online legitimate home based business opportunity.

African Safari Photos Will Capture Your Dream

2008-01-30T22:13:00.001-08:00

You have always had an interest in photography, and would like to add more exotic landscapes to your portfolio. As a result, you have made a list of places that you would like to photograph, and Africa is at the top of the list. You have decided that you would like to take a safari, so what you need are some tips as to how to take the best African Safari photos.

About African Safari Photos

If you have seen African safari photos, you know that you will need a special kind of camera to be able to capture those exotic animals up close. It is important to note that the camera you choose will need a particularly strong zoom lens. This is because the animals will not come close to the vehicle you are in, and because they might be easily startled by a flash.

Thus, with the flash preferably turned off, you are now ready to take your African safari photos. Begin by considering the time of day. The most impressive pictures are usually taken either at sunrise, sunset, or in direct sunlight.

Thus, if you are beginning your safari during sunrise, you can begin by taking a picture of the sunrise against a specific kind of backdrop. If you take an African safari photo of just the sunrise, that really could be a sunrise from anywhere. Thus, you need something in the picture that definitely reminds those who are looking at the picture that it was taken in Africa.

For example, if you are preparing to take an African safari photo of the sunrise and you happen to see a herd of giraffes walking by, be sure to take a picture. Or, you can ask your safari guides to pose for a picture against the backdrop of the sunrise. One more idea is to take a picture of particular buildings or signs that clearly indicate where you are.

When it comes to taking pictures of animals, your safari guides will most likely be sure to tell you about the necessary safety precautions to take. First of all, stay in the vehicle at all times, even if it is stopped. You might be able to ask the driver if you can take certain pictures at certain points outside of the vehicle.

Next, you should make sure that you are properly insured against any hazards. This includes your camera equipment. If you would like more information on the proper ways to take African safari photos, be sure to do some research on photography sites that have to do with that topic on the internet. You are sure to take beautiful pictures of your safari with the proper research.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

Africa Safari Resorts Combine Luxury And Adventure

2008-01-30T22:12:00.001-08:00

If you are searching for a vacation that will combine luxury and adventure for the experience of a lifetime, perhaps an Africa safari resort vacation is the choice for you. There are a number of luxurious lodges and resorts that you can select from in various regions of Africa that will offer plenty of pampering and relaxation. At these resorts there are numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing and education about the culture and people of the area.

Keep in mind that Africa is not just about the wildlife either; there is ample opportunity to soak up the sand and sun at many of the beach resorts throughout the African coast as well. No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, you will undoubtedly be able to find a satisfying experience at one of the many Africa safari resorts.

Kruger National Park

One of the best places to find an Africa safari resort is in the Kruger National Park, located in the southern region of Africa. Not only is this a perfect location to spot the ?big five? of Africa (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino); it is also a spot that offers a number of luxurious Africa safari resorts to meet all of your vacation needs.

For example, two of the lodges in this area, Ebony Lodge and Boulders Lodge, offer understated luxury and plenty of amenities, combined with ample opportunity for wildlife viewing. These lodges each offer nine suites that include private baths, a double-side fireplace and a game viewing deck complete with a private plunge pool. The staff is trained to meet all of your needs by offering first-class accommodations, food and vintage wines.

Advantages to Africa Safari Resorts

There are many advantages to selecting an Africa safari resort as opposed to mobile safaris where tent camping is the primary accommodation. First, an Africa safari resort makes it possible for you to experience an African safari no matter what your age and physical ability.

You can go directly from your lodge to an air-conditioned vehicle that will transport you to some of the best wildlife viewing areas, allowing you to have the best of both worlds in your vacation.

You can bring your entire family, without having to worry about comfort or safety with the youngest of your bunch. You can enjoy the beauty and adventure of this amazing region without sacrificing your creature comforts.

You can even indulge in a swim or round of golf at many of these Africa safari resorts. If you are hunting for a vacation that will offer your family an experience to remember, look at what an African safari resort can give to you.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

An African Safari Jao Can Be Described As The Ultimate African Adventure

2008-01-29T22:00:00.000-08:00

For a true African adventure, the African Safari of Jao in Botswana is the vacation to book. Jao is known for its high concentration of Lion. It can offer both land and water activities on the river Okavango. This area is known for its predators and, Jao Camp itself, is located on the border of the Moremi Game Reserve.

The camp is on a densely wooded oval shaped island that overlooks the vast flood plains of Botswana. It has incredible habitats and permanent waterways and lagoons. An African safari in Jao is a very memorable safari. The skilled staff at Jao Camp will see to it that all of your needs are met, African style.

The Jao African safari wildlife experience is pure African wildlife at its finest. Chances are good that every wild animal that you want to experience will appear. A Jao African safari experience is the safari of a lifetime.

The Accommodations

Your Jao African safari accommodations will consist of African style luxury rooms. The bedrooms are raised wooden decks above palm carpets, constructed of split bamboo and thatch with canvas walls. Each room also has a ?sala? for midday siestas with a superb view. Each camp can sleep a maximum of 16 people. Each suite includes a flush toilet and basin, shower and an outdoor shower. Underneath a tree canopy of cool thatch you will find the main dining room and pub area. There is a pool and an outdoor boma for dining under the stars. A raised walkway connects the rooms to the dining rooms and lounge areas.

Game Viewing

Your Jao African safari experience offers excellent game drives, mokoro excursions, short guided walks and boating trips. Since Jao Camp is next to the Moremi Game Reserve, night drives are permitted. This allows your African safari Jao trip to include an exclusive view of the nocturnally active animals in the area.

Your Jao African safari will most probably include views of Lion and Leopard in their natural habitats. Tsessebe, Lechwe and Wildebeest roam all over the flood plains. The wildlife appearances in Jao depend mainly on the water levels in the area. But, generally, a diverse group of wild animals will be plentiful on your safari.

The lagoons are the home to the Hippo and Crocodile. The permanent water areas attract large numbers of these two animals. But the King of the Jungle, the Lion, will be a sure thing. The Jao African safari is known for its abundance of Lion sightings. Have your camera in hand and don?t miss this one of a kind jungle experience.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

How To Turn Your Own African Dream Safaris Into Reality

2008-01-28T22:15:00.001-08:00

You are soon to be married, and this is one of the most exciting times in your life. However, you and your fianc? have yet to decide where you would like to go on your honeymoon. You two have already taken the standard vacations to tropical places, and would like to make your honeymoon different. Thus, one idea that you could try is an African dream safari.

About African Dream Safaris

African dream safaris are different for each person, because everyone has their own definition of what an African dream safari is. For some people, an African dream safari is a safari that involves a lot of adventure, and lots of action in terms of travel and seeing animals that they have never seen before.

Other people think of an African dream safari as being more of a luxurious vacation, with air conditioned vehicles that leisurely drive through safe roads. After which, the passengers get to go back to their hotels for a massage.

Since this is your honeymoon, it is a better idea to go the luxurious route. After all, African safaris in general would be very tiring, and no couple wants to be exhausted throughout much of their honeymoon!

Thus, for your African dream safari, begin by picking a safari that includes comfortable transportation, and only lasts for part of the say. The more serious safaris begin early in the morning, and last the better part of a day.

There are some hotels in African that offer special excursions that allow you to see some of the exotic animals of Africa, while at the same time being completely safe. Thus, the next step is for you to fins a romantic hotel to stay in.

When it comes to finding the right hotel, it is important to note that upper-lass hotels mean paying upper-class prices. However, many of these hotels have the most unique views of Africa that you ever hope to find.

So if you want to stay in a luxurious African hotel, be sure that you book the honeymoon suite a considerable amount of time in advance. This way, not only are you guaranteed the suite, but you also have time to save the money!

If you would like more information on an African dream safari, consult your local travel agent. You can also search various travel sites on the internet. You are sure to find the right African dream safari for your honeymoon with the proper research.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

An African Lion Safari Is A Once In A Lifetime Adventure

2008-01-28T22:14:00.001-08:00

You may be quite appalled to know that the African lion is heading towards extinction. This king of the jungle and a symbol of strength are on the endangered list and a reason for this bad news is that many African nations are in a hurry to implement new technologies which is whittling away the habitat of the African lion which has brought both man and beast into conflict with one another.

Seeing The Mighty Beast In Action Will Be Awesome

Still, the African lion safari is something that attracts great number of tourists to Africa and so you may be interested in knowing the best destinations for your African lion safari. Seeing this mighty beast in flesh is certainly exciting, but viewing it in action is also worth your while. Being an animal given to snoozing all day this may cause you some amount of concern when you go on an African lion safari and there is no sign of the beast for a whole day.

The two topmost African lion safari destinations are no doubt the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. You can also find great viewing in South Africa?s Kruger National Park, Botswana?s many lion draws including Moremi Game Reserve that has great wildlife as well as spectacular landscape. Wherever you go, the African lion safari is sure to be a once in a lifetime experience.

When you do embark on an African lion safari make sure that you engage the services of a professional guide who will ensure that you are safe during your trip. The lion is certainly a most deadly as well as revered creature and is cunning and ferocious that stands at the top of the food chain. You would be well advised to visit Botswana or Okavango Delta for your African lion safari where there are sure to be wild lions about.

Since the African lion safari has its associated dangers (in spite of the guide) you would be well advised to follow instructions to the T, and don?t be one of those who insist on taking photographs when it is unsafe to do so. The guide is well acquainted with the habits of these beasts and you must wait for the green signal before proceeding any further.

The lion no doubt rules the roost wherever it may be and they will let you know of that immediately. It is thus in your best interests to take a guided African lion safari which will not only ensure your safety, but will also give you the most exciting adventure of your life.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

An Africa Safari Brochure Is The Start Of A Dream Adventure Holiday

2008-01-27T22:30:00.001-08:00

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?
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

An Africa Hunting Safari Can Have Many Hidden Costs

2008-01-27T22:29:00.000-08:00

Some people go on safaris in order to enjoy the sights of nature, others to enjoy the outdoors in exotic locations. Still, others like to combine the two with their love of hunting. Traditionally, hunting safaris in Africa was the main draw and the source for the traditional look you?d expect from these, with khaki clothes, pith helmets, and all. For those who are looking for a new experience while hunting, a safari in Africa may be just what you need, though there are many things to consider.

The Animals

Years ago, you might go on a hunting safari in Africa expecting to bag a lion, or perhaps an elephant with some huge tusks. But due to the endangered status of many African animals, those sorts of safaris are merely a thing of the past. Still, you can expect to hunt exotic creatures like the kudu and the impala while on a hunting safari in Africa. And while you won?t be allowed to shoot at any lions, for those looking to hunt tougher game, you can shoot a cheetah or leopard for your trophy.

The Guides

Most packages for hunting safaris in Africa include a personal guide, which can be a valuable asset for hunters. African game animals have plenty of natural predators to watch out for, so an experienced hunter can make the difference between a trophy and a miss when you?re going after one of these highly-aware animals.

Many companies that offer hunting safaris in Africa also give a guarantee that you?ll get a trophy, since they?re so confident in their guides. And best of all, even if you don?t bag any game while out hunting, you?ll still basically have your own personal guide; most hunting safaris in Africa consist of one or two guides and one or two customers.

The Cost

One thing that you do need to keep in mind while planning a hunting safari in Africa is that they do cost a lot of money. In order to prepare for such a trip, you would need to get a passport, immunize yourself against local diseases in some cases, and ship appropriate clothing and equipment to your destination country.

Then, once you?ve bagged an animal, you often have to pay trophy fees; most hunting packages include a few in the cost, but only for specific animals. If you bag a leopard, for instance, you?ll have to pay a hefty fee on top of what you?ve already spent. This can rapidly add to the cost of your trip. However, if you?re willing to pay the cost, then a hunting safari in Africa might provide the unique hunting experience that you?ve been looking for.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

Africa Safari: Many Countries, Many Different Types Of Safaris

2008-01-24T22:34:00.001-08:00

When you think about Africa, images of savannahs, outstanding landscapes as well as splendid animals must be going through your mind. There may be excitement in the air as you must be anticipating meeting proud ancestral tribes; of course, the main attraction would no doubt be the Africa safari.

A Moving Experience

The Africa safari will move you profoundly as well as spiritually and the exhilaration that you will feel will surely make a new person out of you. An Africa safari is something that you will cherish for long and it will sure to be momentous as well as be the adventure that will be hard to beat in one lifetime.

There are many destinations that beckon you to them for your Africa safari including going to Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia as well as Zimbabwe. You can plan your Africa safari to include one or many of these countries and you can choose to take the safari in a small group, or have a customized private safari. It all depends on your whims and fancies, and of course, your bank balance. In fact, you can choose between an adventure, luxury, private, small group, safari excursion, and a camping safari.

The Africa adventure safari will take you to remote areas in Africa and you can take part in many different activities such as hiking into volcanoes craters, visiting tribes of Bushmen, or canoeing bang next to elephants. The luxury Africa safari will allow you comfort as well as style and you will stay in luxury in intimate camps as well as lodges that are away from the normal tourist spots.

If you think that your Africa safari should be private, then you can take your own professional safari guide and hop on board a private 4x4 safari vehicle and set your own schedule that may vary according to movements of animals. The other option is to go in a small group which should suit single travelers as well as couples, or a bunch of close friends.

You may also want to take a safari excursion which is a short program that include combination safaris such as elephant back safaris, camel safaris, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, diving, riding on horseback, fishing, staying in estates, taking train rides as well as having a golfing trip.

You can also opt for an Africa safari in the form of camping safaris that will take you deep into the heart of Africa in the wilderness where you may stay in tents with king size beds, or in dome tents. Of course, you will relish the sumptuous food, which alone can make your Africa safari worthwhile.
Ann Marier has written articles about African safari trips providing helpful tips and advice. Another favorite topic of hers is camping where she writes about camping gear and equipment

Safari In South Africa

2008-01-24T22:33:00.001-08:00

When it comes to travel in South Africa, there are many things for you to see and do. The first thing however that you should keep in mind is that South Africa is a nation in which you might run into a lot of problems. Like any African country, you should check with your own home country to make sure that there aren?t any tourist restrictions on South Africa or on you from South Africa. Once you have checked with your home country, and everything is set to go, there are several things that you should know before you continue to travel to South Africa.

First of all the most important place for you to see is the biggest city, Johannesburg. While it isn?t the capital, it is a place that is full of much cultural diversity and many beautiful and historical sites. You are going to want to spend most of your time there, because this is where you can truly learn about South Africa and talk to people who know the history surrounding this beautiful country.

In Johannesburg, which is nicknamed Egoli, you can visit the capital of the province. You can see the mine dumps, which stand from South Africa?s richest past, and also look at the modern Architecture. In Sandton, you can visit a business, commercial and residential district. This is known as the richest square mile in all of Africa, so it is the financial hub of South Africa. About 50 KM north of Johannesburg you can visit Pretoria, where you will find that City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, which began in December of 2002. This is of great interest because it is a newly formed group of townships, an experiment that you can witness taking place. Don?t forget to visit Dinokeng, which is north east of Joburg and Tshwane. This is a region that has natural, cultural and historical attractions that you can visit.

There are other things that you are going to want to take in while you are in South Africa. You should definitely take in some of the local festivals. South Africa has one of the largest numbers of cultural festivals per capita, cause of the fact that they are a nation hugely seeped in cultures and diversity. These festivals, however, are not very well known. The best thing to do, if you are interested in witnessing one of the festivals, is to contact a local person who would know when and where they are going to be going on.
Greg Chadwick owns and operates the South Africa Hotel Finder website. Please visit our website to find great deals on South Africa Hotels.

Let Safari Decorating Give Your Home An Exotic Ambiance

2008-01-23T22:57:00.001-08:00

Safari decorating is an exotic and fun decorating theme which will add an interesting dimension to your home. This style uses earthtones, lush jungle decor, animal prints and natural items to add a unique look that is fun to live with. By having safari theme decorating in your home, you can create an exotic jungle ambiance no matter where your house is.

One thing that can really add to your safari decor is jungle and safari themed accessories and luckily there are many to be found on the market today. Include paintings and knick knacks in your home that reflect an African safari. Zebra print lamps, wall art that reflects lush jungle scenes, potted plants and animal knick knacks will all add to the aura of your safari home.

Getting the right window treatments for your home is a fundamental undertaking since the wrong type can undermine your design style. You should try to purchase curtains, drapes or shutters that are natural. For this style, it could work great to use some jungle print curtains or blinds.

Balance your design with furniture which compliment the general decorating approach. You want to look at acquiring items that are wood and upholstery to enhance Safari decorating. Think about using overstuffed furniture that uses a floral, fern like or animal print fabric. For non upholstered items, try using bamboo or rattan items.

Terrific lights can truly complete the safari decorating so you will need to give some thought to this area. With this kind of decor, you?ll need your lighting to be animal or natural themed. There are many lamps out there that are animal themed as well as plant themed.

There are many great rugs that match well with the safari decorating theme. When picking out colors, stick to animal prints or solids and for type contemplate purchasing shag rugs or even rugs that are shaped and colored like an animal skin. If you want a less busy look on the floor, natural sisal mats could look great.

Updating your home with a safari decorating theme doesn't need to be hard if you pay attention to detail. Simply buy your pieces with care and you are sure to get a designer look without having to hire a designer

Lee Dobbins write for http://100decoratingstyles.com/ where you can learn more about decorating and get tips on other great decorating styles.

Bush Business: An African Safari Conference

2008-01-22T22:50:00.000-08:00

Conventional wisdom often says you should never mix business with pleasure. What utter nonsense!
There's absolutely no reason why we should be keeping business separate from enjoyment. In fact, I'd bet that in the long run, productivity is improved when everyone's having a good time. Why else would team-building outings be so important? And why else have we seen such remarkable growth in the number of holiday destinations providing conference facilities?

But what then if you're looking for something different? What if you're tired of the 'same old same old'? In South Africa, a business conference is often called a "Bosberaad" - Afrikaans for 'bush gathering", or 'Indaba'. Appropriate then that in South Africa, we're seeing a new take on the bosberaad, with it moving, well and truly, into the bush.

South African Conference Venues
Southern African conference venues are renowned for their state-of-the-art facilities, excellent quality accommodation and various leisure options. The choices range form your run-of-the-mill hotel conference rooms, purpose built conference centres in some of the major cities, to more unique options including leisure resorts and African Safari lodges.

A safari conference in South Africa is great for corporate groups, and is an excellent choice as an incentive-group venue. Safari conference venues in South Africa offer a distinctive combination of African mystique, tradition and that magical African atmosphere with first-world sophistication in terms of communication infrastructure and accommodation quality.

Business Safari
It's called the Business Safari and it takes the best of an African Safari and combines it with everything you'd expect from a top-rated conference facility.
Depending on the size of the group, and of course the available budget, a business safari can be as luxurious or rustic as your needs require. For smaller groups, an intimate African village atmosphere might be the mood you're after. For larger groups, perhaps you'd prefer something more like a big-city hotel - set in a bushveld location of course. For some only 5-star luxury will do. For others, "roughing it" is the name of the game.

Neighbouring Southern African countries like Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia also offer a range of conference facilities.

Favourite Safari Conference Venues in Southern Africa
Chobe Savanna Lodge - Namibia
The Chobe Savanna Lodge is situated on the Namibian side of the Chobe River, north of the Chobe National Park. A relatively small venue, the lodge can provide accommodation for 24 guests. Its stylish thatched chalets offer something a little different and the venue is ideal for seminars and group incentive programs.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge - Zimbabwe
Situated near to Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls, the lodge comprises a hotel complex overlooking the Zambezi River. It can accommodate up to 100 delegates, with a boardroom and conference room boasting all expected conference facilities.

Sabi Sabi Luxury Private Game Lodge - South Africa
Situated within the renowned Sabi Sands Wildtuin, one of the oldest private reserves in South Africa, Sabi Sabi enjoys a unique bush environment. A premium South African safari conference venue, Sabi Sabi offer conference delegates access to the finest facilities and magnificent vistas, not to mention some amazing wildlife opportunities. Its four lodges offer a combined 52 suites, but it is only the Bush Lodge, with 25 suites and the Earth Lodge, with 13 suites, which offer conference facilities.

So the next time you're planning a conference, why not opt for something a little different. Stimulate productivity with a change of scenery and atmosphere and spoil your delegates with an unforgettable experience; the Business Safari.
In addition to a fabulous conference, delegates will experience the safari of a lifetime in one of Africa's most renowned Big Five private game reserves. Game viewing, spa treatments, 5-Star accommodation and cuisine will all enhance the all-important conference agenda.

With a choice of two facilities, both offering fantastic levels of luxury, Sabi Sabi will treat your delegates to a business safari experience unlike any other. With the perfect combination of wildest Africa, opulent luxury and African safari activities, guests should expect to be spoiled. Who said business doesn't mix with pleasure?

Sabi Sabi, set in the Sabi Sands game reserve, is an exquisite South African Safari Conference Venue. With a choice of two facilities, both offering fantastic levels of luxury, Sabi Sabi will treat your delegates to a business safari experience unlike any other. With the perfect combination of wildest Africa, opulent luxury and African safari activitie

Five Great Sights To See Safaris Of Africa Live!

2008-01-22T22:49:00.001-08:00

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.
For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com. This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included.

Behind Safari Vests And Pockets

2008-01-20T22:29:00.001-08:00

We recommend you to bring one safari vest during your trip. And that's it.

Leave all your dressy clothes at home unless you are to attend a special function in Africa while on a trip.

The trick in safariing is to be as lightweight and functional as possible. Lightweight, due to the fact that you cannot (and must not) carry as much gears as you prefer while on the field. Despite from being too impractical, too many luggages would only cause you terrible mess and less ease of travel.

In the early years of African safaris, people are fond of taking with them unnecessary materials (a huge wooden chair for example) that are obviously unneeded. Well, travelers are far more comfortable with such form of practice since they have carriers to do the works for them. after all, most early safari guests came from the up society.

Yet, for the present, no one is truly certain that she can walk as comfortable while goofing around with extra (and unnecessary gears) while transferring from one vehicle to another or while crossing a remote trek.

Wearing safari vests, while treated more as a traditional part of all safari trips should be viewed as something practically important.

The rule of thumb is to apply casual comfort. Carry an average of 3 to 4 shirts for your entire trip and those must be pure cotton. On top of these, you need to have a safari jacket or safari vest.

A safari vest is vital for carrying with you small but essential gadgets such as a Swiss knife, extra films or a pocket size camera. In fact, anything will do so long as they fit in the pockets of your vest.

From 8 to 10 pockets, it would be impossible that a safari vest would not hold enough of your stuffs.

You may place them in your backpack off course but accessibility makes everything less complicated.

Actually, because of this specific property of safari vests, they are also popular among photographers and other professions that require the use of extra pouches.

Safari vests typically appear in neutral shades, following the idea of not being too loud when on the trek.

This practice can also be observed for your long sleeves, shirts and other safari clothing. Not only do neutral shades lessen the possibility of attracting animals, these may also allow proper ventilation. They are not as heat absorbent as other darker colors and they somehow help heat bounce back away from your body.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

The Pleasures Of Taking Safari Parks

2008-01-18T22:05:00.001-08:00

It is impossible to enumerate all safari parks, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation areas and the likes in a single article. So we have decided to focus our discussion on the top five African Safari parks destination. Let's begin?

South Luangwa National Park of Zambia
Fairly unexplored, South Luangwa is a treasure that only needs to be discovered at its own time. The birthplace of walking safari and the haven of elusive leopards, this is the best place to seek isolation, away from the crowd that characterize other national parks.

Selinda Reserve of Botswana
A very highly rated safari park in all Africa, most seasoned travelers recommend a visit or two to this park to experience what truly is an African safari. Packed with dense population of wildlife, birds and plant species, this truly is a haven that is enjoyed both by the wild and the tamed. Naturalists' most enjoy it here due to the diversity of species found in single locations.

Kruger National Park of South Africa
For the sheer enjoyment of seeing endless arrays of animal species, plants and birds, Kruger would be the best bet if you would like to see diversity. Since it scales more than the size of Wales, it is not unlikely that it harbors the largest concentration of species that is unequalled anywhere else. The rich tapestry of ecosystems is such that it would be hard to imagine how all things coexist in competition to live in a space so large.

This safari park was the pioneer of its kind since it has already existed since 1889, the year when the first realization of endangerment of animals is conceived. Primarily intended to protect wildlife in advance, Kruger now stands as the largest single place harboring excellent game reserves.

Masai Mara of Kenya
Being the most excellent wildlife safari park in the whole region, Masai Mara is duly recognized for supporting large herds of cat species. It is home to endless plains that are populated with grassland, thus ideal for game-viewing. See leopards, cheetahs and lions in action as they mercilessly follow after their kill during the exchange of life and death in the plains of Masai Mara.

Serengeti National Park of Tanzania
Oh the sound of the name alone brings memories of might and migration. This is one of the most famous national safari parks in all Africa as it is the site for the annual migration of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, and antelopes. The birth and death place of most calves, this truly is a place to behold if you want to experience authentic deal.

What You Should Know About Safari Jackets

2008-01-17T22:21:00.001-08:00

A typical safari look: a lightweight shirt coupled with a comfy pants, with an accent of a nice safari hat and a bag full of safari gears. What's left? Yes, the safari jacket.

Safari jackets were primarily designed for use during on a safari trip. This tradition as started since late 1800's when Europeans begun to search for the wild found in the realms of Africa.

Safari, a Swahili term which means "journey" were then adapted into the English language since the popularity of the activity itself (safariing) has lurked into the highest people in the society. Thus, creating a snob appeal.

Nowadays, safariing along with safari jackets have been receiving extensive fame and acceptance especially because the activity is rewarding and relatively educational. In fact, African safaris seem to have the appeal of being a naturalist's, environmentalist's, ornithologist's, ecologist's, hobbyist's haven.

The fame of safari jackets was attributed to the adventure-look popularized in the turn of the century. These, since then, were designed for function and comfort in the African safari terrain.

Since safari jackets appeal to both fashion and functionality, they were made by combining art that maximizes the use of each component.

Though we may see safari jackets with over-emphasized pockets these days, no one can still contend that pockets are perfect when in the field. They allow you to have more things at any given time without the hassle of reaching up your backpack and get whatever you need. With more pockets comes more practicality.

Local tour operators don't normally allow their guests to bring as much equipment as they may want. In fact, everything is limited into a few pairs. Shirts are limited only into three with corresponding garments such as underwear, undershirts and the likes. Thus, with more pockets you have, you can bring in smaller gadgets with you whenever and whatever you think you might need them.

Aside from its functionality, safari jackets are also efficient in making you feel secured from the harmful environmental factors such as the heat of the sun.

The typical color of most safari jackets is khaki or beige. Though they can also appear in patterned forms and other shades of color. Nonetheless, the two neutral colors we have earlier mentioned are more ideal since they both complement the over-all functionality of the jacket.

Neutral colors, unlike brighter shades, have no properties that might attract or repel wild animals. These colors don't also absorb heat so that would give you the best of both worlds- comfort and functionalityFor more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com. This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included.

Spend Your Holiday on an Exotic African Safari

2008-01-17T00:16:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for an exciting way to spend your holiday, an exotic African safari might be the answer. There's plenty to see and do for all ages, and it's now easier than ever to book a trip.

Believe it or not, there's more to an African safari tour than what you see in pictures or on the television. For instance, on a Kenya safari you'll enjoy breathtaking scenery highlighted with mountainous backdrops, glistening lakes, savanna grasslands, mist highlands, beautiful rivers, and abundant wildlife. If you take a Kenya holiday during July or August, you might even get to witness an amazing phenomenon - the annual wildebeest caravan. This is a time when millions of wildebeests make their way north to search for lush grass.

Amazing Animals and More

Also on a Kenya tour, activities will often include trips to medicinal springs and the inside of a crater where the black-manned lion, rhino and buffalo roam. You might travel to a nearby lake to see a variety of game and scenery. Many Kenyan safari tours also include nighttime entertainment with music and dance. It's not all wilderness and forests!

Combine Your Kenya Holiday and Tanzania Safari in One

You can now book a "two-in-one" Tanzania and Kenya holiday to make your African safari vacation even more interesting. These two places are filled with wonder and have much to offer visitors. There are lodge safaris, game viewing safaris, and even mountain-climbing safaris - whatever you prefer!

How to Book Your Africa Safari

You can contact a travel agency to book an African safari or you can find a tour company on the Web that specializes in African travel and tours to get the assistance you need. There are many services that you'll need to consider before securing your Africa vacation such as a rental car (or car hire), reserving hotels, obtaining a Visa, getting the necessary vaccines for disease prevention, and booking a flight.

Find a dependable company on the Web that is actually based in Africa for the best possible service. It's great if you can travel to Kenya where the company is located and acquire assistance from them when you need it. Try to find an all-in-one African safari tour package to be sure all your needs will be covered. They can help you get a car rental, hotel room and everything you need. The last thing you want is to arrive in Kenya and realize you missed some important steps!

Quick African Safari Travel Tips

As with traveling to any foreign land, there are a few things you should take along for safety, pleasure, and comfort. A safari can be fun if you take time to prepare.

1. Take a good, dependable digital camera with plenty of photo memory. There will be many, many "photo moments."

2. Keep plenty of mosquito repellent with you at all times. Also, wear long sleeves and long pants to keep mosquitoes from biting and to protect from severe sunburn.

3. Pack several bottles of sunscreen for exposed areas of your skin.

4. Take your own pair of binoculars even if the Africa tour company provides them. You might be required to share theirs with others on the tour, but you can use your own whenever you want.

5. Take along some medicines to prevent headaches or fever, pain, and diarrhea.

6. Secure health insurance coverage, just in case of an emergency. The tour company may provide options for you.

Ask your travel booking agents about other items you might need. They may provide a list for you.

You can enjoy days of excitement on your African safari tour once you've taken these important steps. With online resources, you can now learn all about it before you go!

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Take a Holiday - African Safari or Majon's Travel directory.

An East African Safari, a dream of a lifetime

2008-01-13T22:39:00.000-08:00

An East African Safari is the ultimate safari experience. Experience the wild life and sceneries from the safari parks in Kenya, the city of Mombasa, and the unspoiled exotic beaches.

The wildlife and sceneries of an east African safari in Kenya as one have experienced or might experience on their first or next safari is an incredible journey. From dawn to dusk the wild life of east Africa is breathtaking. Kenya is also the home to The Big Five. This is what everybody talks about and wants to see when going on safari. The Big Five is the Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, and the Rhino.

The Big Five got their name from the old days where these animals were the ultimate goal for a hunter to bring down. These animals are considered the most dangerous and the toughest to hunt. The best time of the year to see the big five is from July to October. To have the best chance at seeing the big five it is recommend visiting more than one park.

Safari experiences are possible almost all over Kenya, the experiences are varied. It is therefore natural to get different experiences by visiting different parks. The most famous safari park in Kenya is Masai Mare, with its large savanna that lies on the border to Tanzania in the southwestern part of Kenya. This is the place for a lot of animals. Another magnificent safari park is Amboseli, with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background offers a unique nature and wildlife experience. A stay at a Tree Top lodge gives the opportunity to get really close to the wildlife. No matter what, Kenya will give a unique safari experience for life.

An East African Safari is an unforgettable experience that one should at least experience once in a life time. Going to the zoo to watch animals is one thing, but be out close in the wildlife's natural habitat is something completely else.

For more information and a visit to our gallery, please visit us at: www.WorldOfSafari.com

Martin Pruss is a nature and wildlife photographer. For the love of nature and wildlife he has traveled around the world.

His work can be found at: www.Acacian-Tales.com

African Safari Kenya: Top 14 African Safari Parks in Kenya

2008-01-13T22:38:00.000-08:00

1. Nairobi - Tsavo East African safari

Your first African safari day targets the huge and expansive Kenya wildlife safari park called Tsavo. The Kenya safari party departs Nairobi in the morning and proceeds to Tsavo East Wildlife Park. This is Kenya?s largest game sanctuary famed for its huge herds of elephants.

Tsavo East is also famous from the ?man eaters of Tsavo? , a group of Lions that killed by the hundreds the rail line workers in 1890?s. The park is so huge that game drives could easily go on for hours while seeing all the ?big five? wildlife and astounding land formations and rivers.

Your Tsavo East African safari snippet is full of the big five and spectacular geographical features in a semi arid area.

2. Tsavo East - Tsavo West African safari

On your second African safari day, you will cross over the Mombasa highway that divides Tsavo East and West. Tsavo West is a miracle waiting to be discovered in an African safari. It is full of exquisite volcanic lava flows, crystal clear springs fed and filtered by underground labyrinth of volcanic porous rocks.

There are numerous caves with dripping water and moss made from the Pleistocene volcanic era. Enchanted Forests that stand on volcanic rocks offer a cool and welcome relief from the sun.

You will have early morning game drives before breakfast and later proceed to Tsavo West Wildlife safari park arriving in time for lunch. Afternoon is spent in your lodge at leisure followed by a game viewing drive. Dinner and overnight at your lodge and entertainment from Kamba people African safari dancers.

3. Tsavo West ? Amboseli Wildlife African safari

On the 3rd day African safari, you will depart Tsavo West after breakfast and game drive for Amboseli Wildlife safari park a place of stark contrast. Amboseli National Park is in the shadows of Africa?s highest snow-capped mountain-Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Towering way above the park, the mountain is imposing and offers a picture perfect opportunity of photographing the big five with a background of the bald headed, snow-capped Kilimanjaro. The greatest attraction here is the vast herds of Elephant within the park and the bull Elephant that have the biggest tusks in Kenya.

The evening game drive will complete this full African safari day. Photograph over 200 elephant herd crossing the road right in front and at the rear of your car-sandwiched. You are accommodated in the Amboseli Serena or Ol Tukai 5 star African safari lodges or a mobile tented camp at the community campsite.

4. Amboseli Wildlife Park African safari

You spend your 4th day of African safari at the park lounging. Get to swim in the lodges? swimming pool with a spectacular view of elephants drinking from a spring 50 yards away. Your room is also fronted by a spring that elephants love to drink from. You will spend the whole of your day observing elephant behaviour from a distance of less than 50 yards from your bed and verandah.

Early morning and late evening game drives are standard where you get to see the Lions, cheetahs and the occasional leopard-the ultimate prize. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or budget campsite.

5. Amboseli ?Naivasha Wildlife African safari

Day five of this best of African safari package sees you crossing from the Southwestern of Maasai country to the mid-western area and on the floor of the great rift valley of Kenya. You depart after breakfast and proceed to Lake Naivasha.

This is the second biggest fresh water lake in Kenya. On a boat ride you will be able to see the numerous hippos wallowing and yawning while making loud bleating sounds.

You depart in the afternoon for an optional tour to Crescent Island. The Lake is a bird? paradise and has a larger number of hippos. Dinner and overnight at your lodge or budget tent.

6. Naivasha -Maasai Mara

You are driven from Naivasha on the sixth day crossing the Great Rift Valley floor and up the Maasai highlands into the world famous Maasai Mara game reserve. The Maasai Mara is the epitome of a African safari.

Arriving at your lodge, have a leisurely afternoon followed by an optional evening game drive (in most cases nobody opts out of this one). Your game drive is so spectacular with so much wildlife that your head will spin.

Elephants graze 2 yards away from your car, a herd of 500 buffalos stare in unison with a thousand eyeballs mean as brick face, lions sprawl underneath your car for shade and cheetahs mount on the hood of your car for that vantage view point for prey-SUBLIME.

You spend the evening being entertained by the Maasai morans in a bon- fire setting.

7. Maasai Mara Game Reserve Wildlife African safari

Day seven is spent at the Maasai Mara game reserve lounging and breathing the fresh air of the Maasai plains. A full day game drive is usually offered and this will literally drop your jaw with awe.

The captivating African wildlife as found in the Maasai Mara will leave you yearning for more and yet satiated to the brim with safari photos. (You will run out of camera memory and battery power before you ran out of wildlife.)

Lunch is served at the bank of Mara River where Hippos can be viewed as you munch away the freshly prepared cuisine and a sea of fresh fruits flown daily from Nairobi. Such are the comforts you get in your African-African safari.

Dinner will be served at the lodge and entertainment by the Maasai group.

8. Maasai Mara - L. Victoria Tour

On your eighth day, next destination is Africa?s and world?s second largest fresh water lake. This is Lake Victoria, the source of the second longest river in the world called the Nile that feeds the whole of Egypt and was revered even in pharaoh?s time.

Lunch is taken at your lake side hotel and in the afternoon you will have an optional boat ride in the lake. This lake covers the whole of the three east African countries; Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. You will proceed to Kakamega for dinner and overnight at the golf hotel or campsite.

9. L. Victoria - Mt. Elgon Tour

Your day nine in Kakamega enchanted tropical rain forest will see you having bird walks. Some rare and endemic birds are found in this forest.

You will return to the lodge for early lunch before you proceed to Mount Elgon Wildlife safari park for a game drive including a hike to the Kitum Caves (Elephant Caves). The kitum caves are so large that they can fit 100 elephants at a go. This is where elephants come to lick the salty cave wall rocks. The caves are so beautiful with cascading waterfalls at their entrance and trickling springs inside their bowels.

Mt. Elgon has an elephant platform and overlooks both Uganda and Kenya at its highest point. The trees are lined with liana, climbers and moss laden with morning dew that creates a feeling of ?out of Africa?

Dinner and overnight at the Mt. Elgon Lodge, the Kenya Wildlife Service Bandas, or campsite.

10. Mt. Elgon -Lake Bogoria -L. Baringo Tour

You will Depart Mt. Elgon on the tenth day after breakfast for Lake Bogoria with lunch en-route. This is a salty water lake on the rift valley floor. The lake is famous for its teaming flamingo populations and the ever hissing hot water springs. A lot of teams have boiled eggs on these natural cookers.

On Arrival and you will have a game drive, which will take you to the hot water springs. In the afternoon you will depart Lake Bogoria for Lake Baringo for dinner and overnight at the lodge or campsite.

11. L. Baringo - L. Nakuru Tour

On your eleventh day, you will depart for Lake Nakuru Wildlife safari park after break fast arriving in time for lunch. Lake Nakuru is a RAMSAR site, a world wetland heritage site. The Lake is famous for its rhinos and the flamingo populations. It also has some lions, leopard, giraffe, waterbuck, baboons, gazelles, impala and buffalo. Diner and overnight at the hotel or campsite.

12. L. Nakuru ? Samburu African safari

After breakfast in Lake Nakuru on the twelfth day, depart passing through the equator where you will have an 'Equator ceremony' as you continue to Kenya's semi-arid area, the Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu national reserve is world famous for it is here that the survivor series 4 was shot. Samburu is a replica of the Maasai Mara with a lot of wildlife and crocodiles.

Lunch and game drive are taken en-route. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or campsite.

13. Samburu Game Reserve Tour

Day thirteen is a full day lounging in a wildlife park. Morning and afternoon game drives are usually provided. See the endemic ?giraffe antelope? aka the gerenuk as it stands on two rear feet to browse the leaves of the areas short acacia trees. Observe the rare, endangered and endemic grevy Zebra.

Full day in the Reserve with morning and afternoon game drives. All meals and overnight at the lodge or campsite.

14. Samburu / Nairobi

On the fourteenth day of your African safari, have an early morning game drive before breakfast and thereafter depart for Nairobi.

This will complete your full best of African safari within 14 days. This African safari is priced differently depending on whether you want to be accommodated in lodges or campsites. Lodge accommodation is naturally more expensive but also more luxurious with all the comforts of a hotel.

Cost of your African safari in Kenya

Camping on the other hand enables you to sample the real Kenyan tour wilderness and freshness of nature. Lodge based African safari s average between USD 250 to USD 400 depending on the luxury sought.

Camping on the other hand enables you to sample the real Kenyan tour wilderness and freshness of nature. Camping incentive safaris depend on the group number and the larger the number, the lower the cost. An average of 4 travelers pays USD 100 per day per person for this 14 or less day?s package.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with landmark safaris. To tailor your own shorter or longer best of African safari visit them http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner

Elephant Safari: Unforgettable Incident That Illustrates An Elephant's Intelligence

2008-01-11T21:46:00.000-08:00

The elephant is a member of the "big 5" list of animals that tourists out on an African safari holiday usually want to see.

Much has been written about elephants but one particular incident that we encountered on our way back from a safari, years ago, stands out on my mind and illustrates the amazing intelligence of this animal.

Before I narrate this tale, let me explain something. Everybody knows that the elephant is famed for its' memory. If you can remember things, folks will tell you that you have the memory of an elephant. This is factual because elephants will remember old routes in the African bush that they last used decades previously to reach a water hole during a very dry spell. There is a direct relation between the ability to remember and intelligence, as most people know. Many people will also know that research has clearly shown that animals with bigger brains are more intelligent. But then that is not my area of expertise and readers should do their own further research at their favorite search engine on this.

Let us move on to my amazing real life elephant tale.

Years back, we were returning from an exciting Safari in the world famous Masai Mara game reserve and were headed back to the hotel in Mombasa when we came across a very strange and bizarre site right in the middle of the busy highway that links the tourist city of Mombasa to Kenya's main capital city of Nairobi.

A baby elephant was lying right in the middle of the road. CONTINUE

Chris Kavila blogs from a house close to the beach in Mombasa, Kenya ? not far from the world famous Masai Mara game reserve (and loves every minute of it). He brings you regular fascinating tales of African Safari Holidays.

Safari Hats: A Glimpse In History

2008-01-11T21:45:00.000-08:00

Africa is the region that seems to offer rich collection of culture, resources, places of wonder and scenes of the circle of life. It is more impressive than anyone may ever dream. And as vast as it can get, no one can truly travel the whole of Africa in a month without missing hundreds of sights. One has to live in Africa to be able to see it all.

That being said and other things that can never be mentioned her or elsewhere, it is vital that you would not spoil your African safari adventure by not being comfortable along your journey. This is why, like with most other trips, we have to bring the essentials.

The basics off course are clothes, shoes and the likes. Second to it are the toiletries. The third (and the most important) are the binoculars! After all, what's the sense of going to Africa if you would not be able to witness the dance of life as closer as your advantage may allow?

Well, though we may place this gear at the bottom list, you surely would not want leaving them behind. Well, come to think of it, what more can you do but protect your head and half of your face from the scorching heat of the sun?

Wide brim hats were designed specifically to provide the maximum amount of sun protection without blocking your vision. Your long sleeves and long pants aside, safari hats can complement the functions as contributed by longer safari clothing. These restrict you from freer movement though.

When selecting for a safari hat, please pay attention to the width of the visor. It must atleast be 2 ? inches wide from the side that is nearest to the circumference of your head.

While we have this strong tendency to correlate safari hats with outback, it is good to note that it is actually a version of the Fedora hat. When in doubt, you may try flipping the back of the brim and you'll make a Fedora. In short, safari hats are just fedoras that have their brims turned down.

Since when did this fashion in safari hats occurred, no one truly knows. One theory suggests that when African safaris became a fad at one time in history, people have started bringing home photos of safari adventures that typically feature turned-down-brims safari hats. Later, manufacturers adopted this type of hat which became the normal fashion for all safari guests.

Nature - Enchanted Forest Tours & Safaris Kenya-Ultimate In Kenyan Nature Safaris

2008-01-10T22:49:00.002-08:00

Kenyan nature and forest safaris

Kenya-Africa nature holds a spectrum of scenic attractions to test the appetite of any nature loving tourist. From the snow capped mountains in the tropics to the dunes to the North East of the Country.

Arabuko Sokoke Enchanted Kenyan Forest

The Natural tropical forests of Arabuko Sokoke is a must go for any nature tourist. The coastal forest has resident elephant regulations. Among the endemic species include the elephant shrew, and the little scoops owl. The community butterfly project is also a must see for visitors.

Kakamega enchanted Kenyan equatorial forest

Kakamega forest is a remnant of equatorial forest running through to DR Congo. The forest canopy is so high and interlocked it creates a permanent dark under cover. Activities in many of Kenya,-Africa?s safari lands forests include; bird watching, forest walks, camping Biking etc.

The Great Rift Valley scenic safaris

The Great Rift Valley provides scenic beauty observed from the Eastern Escarpment. The Rift Valley floor is dotted with active volcanic activity in the form of geysers, hot springs and smoldering mountains, fresh water, lakes and crater lakes. L. Bogoria is an exciting destination where one boils eggs off the steam of hot springs; flamingoes are plentiful in these lakes including Elementaita, Nakuru and Bogoria. Preferred accommodation is exclusive camps and lodges.

Other Enchanted forest and nature destinations in Kenya

Kenya also has other enchanted forest and nature destinations spread over the country including the Taita hills and cloud forests, the Shimba Hills forest, the great Aberdare mountain forest, Mt. Kenya forest, Mt. Elgon forest among many others. The nature-lover tourist will simply be spoilt for choice in the many natural wilderness and forest areas in Kenya.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to many Kenya tour articles. For free more on nature and enchanted forest safaris visit them @ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php

African Lion Safari Country; Kenya - The African Lion Safari Land

2008-01-10T22:49:00.001-08:00

African lion safari in Kenya is offered in several of the country?s wildlife parks. Most famous is the Maasai Mara game reserve where sightings of the African lion are guaranteed-the same way the sun will rise in the morning and set in the evening. Other African lion safari parks in Kenya famous for their African lion populations include the Tsavo, Amboseli, Nairobi, Nakuru and Meru safari Parks. With a little effort and your diver guide?s acumen, you will be able to spot a pride in each of these African lion safari land parks.

African lion safari of Maasai Mara

Maasai Mara game reserve is said to host over 10 prides of lions if not more. The African lion in Maasai Mara is famous for its black mane. The mane will usually be golden in the African lion?s youth turning to black as it advances in age. The lions of the Mara will be heard roaring next to your camp where they have marked territories and location.

The prides usually occupy one territory (which might be next to your lodge) and it?s guaranteed that they will always be in those environs every day. The Maasai Mara African lion safari land park is rife with succession battles between male lions. The dominant male is constantly fending off other challenging males. The male will in most cases be heavily scarred on the face as a result of battles fought and won before.

The African lion safari in the Mara will find you in the middle of a pride that wants to use your car for shade. They will sprawl underneath and besides your vehicle for hours ignoring your presence. By and large, the Maasai Mara African lion is to an extent used to humans, but that?s not to mean they are any less dangerous. So take no chances.

The African lion safari of Tsavo safari park

The lions of Tsavo East especially, are the most dreaded, and were upon which the movie ?the ghost and the darkness? was based. The lions of Tsavo killed hundreds of railway workers and at one point halted the construction of the East African railway line in 1890?s. They came to be known as the ?man eaters of Tsavo?

The lions here are the most feared and un-habituated due to their limited contact with humans. They are equally harder to locate but more due to the expansive nature of the park. Your tour driver guide in most cases will most certainly know how to locate a pride since they are familiar with their territories.

African Lion safari in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National park is the only wildlife park in the world within capital city boundaries. It is therefore easily accessible and a show case of what other country based lion safari parks have to offer. The African lion prides of Nairobi national park are fewer due to the relative size of the park. They can however be heard at early mornings and late evenings roaring away. It is always an exciting experience in your African lion safari to see the elusive lions in this park before proceeding to the major national parks in Kenya.

Lions of Meru National Park

The Meru National park easily holds the number one position of the most remote wilderness areas in the country. The wildlife here, unlike other parks is very aggressive and un-habituated. The African lions of Meru National park compare to those of Tsavo and are as such the most feared. Meru national park however is a darling for tourists in search of virgin natural places in their African lion safari photo hunt.

Lions of L. Nakuru National park

Lake Nakuru national park is the most visited park in Kenya. The park is also located 2? from Nairobi and within the Nakuru town and is host to Lake Nakuru, an important Ramsar site. (An Important water-body equivalent to a UNESCO?s heritage site). The park is famous for the millions of the pink coloured flamingo that ring the sides of the lake like one large pink bracelet.

The African lion park prides are easily found and are located in a particular area called the lion hill. L. Nakuru is a very famous park since it also hosts the Black and White African Rhino. The white Rhino populations in the park have improved tremendously and are touted as a resounding success of the rhino breeding programme by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Let your operator advice you on your itinerary to maximize your African lion safari experience in Kenya. For sure you will see enough African lions and more of the big five game here. That?s not a fact it?s a promise. Enjoy!

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to many Kenya tour articles. For free African lion safari info visit them @ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php

Kenya Water Safari: Discount Kenya Water Safari In Mombasa Waters

2008-01-09T23:22:00.000-08:00

Kenya water safari on the Mombasa sandy beaches is a unique and relaxing vacation destination in east Africa. For the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the water safari activities on offer are a sure holiday experience.

Water safari sports Most of the hotels arranged along the wide beaches in Diani south coast offer diverse water sports. These include Water-skiing, Sailing, Jet skiing, parasailing and much more and can all be arranged easily at most of the hotels. The protective coral reefs provide a safe haven for water safari sports and safe swimming along these beaches.

Snorkeling and scuba diving water safari sports

There are over 4 national marine parks set up to protect the fragile coral gardens. These are Malindi, Mombasa, Watamu, Kisite Mpunguti and Kiunga Marine parks. The Malindi and Kisite marine parks are especially famous for snorkeling and swimming with dolphins.

Dive sites Some of the best water safari diving sites are centered on Shimoni and Tiwi where divers encounter the huge manta rays. Whale sharks are guaranteed sightings during the months of February and March each year on the outer reef dive sites.

Easy dive sites For the new diver there is an easier dive is Kisiite Point. With an average depth of 12 meters divers here encounter tame shoals of fish. Hawksbill turtles and bottlenose dolphins are also encountered at Kisiite point by divers.

Experience dive sites

Nyulli Reef is one of the best dive sites for the experienced scuba diver. This is a good deep dive site with strong tidal currents. It offers a spectacular coral garden and a plunging drop off which is home to excellent sea life. Fishes found here include the barracuda, snapper, massive Napoleon wrasse and rare zebra sharks.

Wreck diving water safari sport

MV Ufunguo, an artificial coral reef from a scuttled trawler is a perfect wreck diving spot in the northern point of Diani. The wreck has since split open and the hull is now a massive haven for sea life and coral.

There are several dive operators in the both private and hotel operated. PADI, NAUI and SSI standards of safety and quality are all enforced and Full courses with qualified instructors and international SCUBA certification are available. Night diving and specialist Nitrox diving is also offered here.

Boating water safari There is a diverse range of boats that can be hired from your hotel in the south coast beaches including Hobie cats and sailing skiffs. Kayaks are also on hire for maneuvering sheltered waters, bays and creeks.

Private hire yachting is also available at Shimoni. These can be hired together with a crew for private exploration of the Kenyan coast idyllic beaches.

Dhow trips A full day water safari dhow trip is arranged to the Wasini Island off Shimoni. Lunch is served at the Charlie?s claw restaurant on Wasini. Dolphin will usually escort the dhow in the marine park and visitors are able to snorkel with the dolphins from the dhow.

Big game deep sea sport fishing safari

The Shimoni area has carved a name for big game sport fishing at the Kenyan coast. Available are the main game fish caught including Kingfish, Wahoo, Sailfish and Marlin, Horse Mackerel and others. The Pemba Channel Fishing Club in Shimoni offers big game fishermen all the necessary information on big game fishing. A tag and release programme is strictly adhered to ensure eco-friendly fishing practice. The season for big game fishing is usually December through March.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to many Kenya tour articles. For free Kenya safari info visit them @ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/beach.php

Kenya Beach Tour-Lamu-Malindi-Mombasa: Top Kenya Beach & Water Safari

2008-01-09T23:20:00.002-08:00

Mombasa of Kenya coast

Mombasa Kenya is the oldest and second biggest city in Kenya, and is the centre of the Kenya coastal beaches. It is situated on the South-Eastern part of Kenya and is the biggest, most important port of East Africa. From here you can visit the North Coast beaches, South coast beaches, Malindi and Watamu, Lamu Kenya, Tana River Delta, or even Taveta and enjoy natural beauty and living history.

From its rich history to its diversity of cultures, Mombasa Kenya has its own very special feel, very different from Nairobi. Mombasa Kenya is strongly influenced by Arabic culture and this is quite evident in the food, dress and the architecture.

Malindi the Kenyan beach resort town

Malindi Kenya is thought to have been founded in the 10th century by Arab traders, and it has become an important city-state and a major port. The Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama landed there in 1498 and erected a monument; Vasco da Gama pillar that still stands. Nearby are the Gede ruins, an ancient walled city.

Malindi Kenya has beaches offering the visitor a range of world class resorts and quiet relaxing hideaways.

Lamu on the Kenya beaches

Lamu Kenya is a place like no other. It was recently named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its history is as mysterious and fascinating as the winding streets of its mediaeval stone town. There are no vehicles on this island; the donkey and the dhow remain the dominant form of transport in Lamu Kenya.

Though the oldest surviving town in East Africa, Lamu of Kenya retains an almost unspoiled 19th Century appearance and lifestyle, some of the mosques date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, but almost all other buildings are late 18th century. Its narrow streets, its stone buildings with beautiful carved doors, its busy waterfront teeming with dhows and its fascinating people belong to a bygone age.

Lamu Kenya has changed little in 200 years. Although rapidly-decaying, the town today, is a living monument of its past. Very little architectural development has taken place since this time and the narrow cloistered town plan and arabesque structures are still intact. The island is still largely untouched by ?civilization? which accounts to its unique charm.

On the south-Western tip of Lamu Kenya Island is the small village of Kipungani, about 40 minutes by motor boat from Lamu town and about 40 miles North of Lamu Islands of Kenya Lies Kiwayu.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to 500 Kenya tour articles. For free Kenya beach safari info visit them @ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/beach.php

Water Safari Kenya; Top 7 Water Safari Vacations Kenya

2008-01-09T23:20:00.001-08:00

1. Tsavo West National Park

This was made famous by the man eaters of Tsavo, the lions that killed hundreds of railway workers in the beginning of the 20th Century. Here you can see most animals, including the ?big five?. This park is situated west of Mombasa and East of Amboseli National Park. This park is a must see in your Kenyan Water safari.

2. Shimba Hills National Reserve

The Shimba hills are also worth a visit. The reserve has a variety of species including Elephant, Giraffe and Buffalo as well as the rare Roan and Sable Antelopes. The forests are home to a number of unusual species including the black and white colobus monkey, Serval cats, Red Duiker and Suni Antelope. An abundance of birdlife is found among the hills, including Honey guides, Turacos, Wood peckers and Sunbirds. Shimba Hills can be done as a day excursion from your Kenyan Water safari on the Kenyan Beach.

The Makupa Market off Mwembe Tayari, is Mombassa?s biggest market, a colourful place featuring a wide range of produce is worth a visit.

Fort Jesus in the Old town built in the 16th Century by the Portuguese is also worth a visit.

3. South Coast of Kenya Beaches

The south Coast of Kenya Beach is famous for its warm, calm, turquoise waters. It is situated south of Mombasa; you have to cross the Likoni Ferry to reach it. All sorts of water sports including deep sea scuba diving, boating, surfing, parasailing, beach parachuting, Hobie skiffs, kayaking, wreck diving are offered. These are very popular sports with Kenya water safari enthusiasts.

North Coast of Kenya Beaches

The North Coast of Kenya beach is the closest beach to Mombasa Island and has an excellent beach for a Kenyan Water safari tour. Most water sports are offered including deep sea scuba diving, big game sport fishing, jetskies, surfing, snorkeling and goggling etc.

4. Watamu Kenya Beach

The 10 km sq Watamu Marine National Park contains unparalleled marine views and it is world-renowned for its deep- sea fishing and other water safari activities. The area features crystal clear warm waters and white sandy beaches.

5. Arabuko Sokoke Forest Wilderness on Kenyan Beaches

Arabuko Sokoke forest wilderness is nestled besides the water safari beaches of Watamu, just minutes from the waters of the Indian Ocean. In this 400sq km reserve there is an untold wealth of natural beauty. The air is filled with butterflies and birds, the trees alive with monkeys and the forest floor home to many mammals.

The forest stretches to the headwaters of the mighty Sabaki River, and occasionally herds of elephant pass through the forest en route to the river.

This rich forest once hid another secret. The 13th century Swahili town of Gede thrived here for hundreds of years, hidden away from Portuguese sailors and the influence of the outside world. The town was eventually deserted, and today the ruins of Gede, lying among the trees and twisting vines of the forests are a haunting reminder of the past?

6. The Tana Delta

The Tana delta is a place of spectacular panoramic views, encompassing a scrub land teeming with game and birds and the endless rolling sands of deserted beaches. Here you can experience the best of both worlds of a Kenyan water safari, spending the morning exploring a river filled with hippos and crocodiles by canoe, and swimming in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean in the afternoon.

7. Taita & Chyulu Hills

Spanning the vast plains of Tsavo, and lying within view of majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro, are the Taita and Chyulu hills. This is a paradise of elephant herds, plains game, cheetah, remote Maasai villages and wonderful views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This is a breath taking escape from the beach in your water safari in Kenya.

Close to Tsavo East, the nearby Taita Hills are home to a private game sanctuary, with a wide variety of game including Lion, Cheetah, Elephant and plains game. Prolific bird life includes the extremely rare Taita Falcon, a Bird recorded in early Egyptian hieroglyphics. The Taita are in fact three groups of Hills, the Dabida, Sagalla and Kasigau.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to 500 Kenya tour articles. For free Kenya water safari info visit them @ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/beach.php

Kenya Historical Tours And Safaris: Cradle Of Mankind Kenya Historical Tour

2008-01-08T21:29:00.001-08:00

Kenya; the cradle of mankind

Kenya-Africa is credited as the cradle of mankind, from where the earliest remains of human bones were discovered by Dr Richard Leakey. Evidence of the earliest, man were discovered at Koobi Fora on the shores of L. Turkana, formerly L. Rudolf.

Kenyan Archeological sites

Other Kenya historical tour and safari hotspot areas that remains and tools (adze) of the human ancestry have been found include Kariandusi and Ololgesailie, archeological sites. All early ancestry artifacts are collected and displayed at National Museum at Nairobi. These archeological sites are also developed into Kenya historical tour tourist attractions.

Rock paintings and art in many caves of Kenya

There are also caves believed to have been shelter of the early man across the country. Rock paintings are evident in such areas as the Mt Elgon Kitgum and Makingeny Caves, Mfangano Island and in Malaba district. The USAID has recently given aid to rehabilitate and preserve these caves.

The slave caves of Shimoni; routes of the slave trade

Other caves at Shimoni have been used as stockade for slaves in transit to major markets in Zanzibar for onward transmission to South America & Europe. These are especially favoured by in the itineraries of Kenya historical tours and safaris.

Mau Mau freedom war and landmarks

Recent colonial war between the Mau Mau freedom fighters is also evident. Bombings of the Mau Mau that created lakes can be seen at Aberdares forest and Buffalo Springs Reserve. Accommodation for Kenya historical tourists is arranged in towns closest to such sites.

Where to find the fossils and historical evidence

The National Museums of Kenya and Kenya National archives have impressive collections of the fossils, artifacts and insignia of the different historical eras in the region. They can be seen in the many local museums like the Fort Jesus, Nairobi Museum, Kitale, Kisumu, and rock paintings in Mt. Elgon, Malaba and Mfangano Island and many other Kenya Historical tours archeological sites.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. He is degreed in tourism and hospitality management and author to 500 Kenya tour articles. For more information on Kenya Historical tours visit them@ www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php

Ideas For Safari Decorations

2008-01-07T22:07:00.000-08:00

What is your idea of a safari?

It will depend on how you interpret the word.

Safari is a Swahili word that implies journey or travel. This typically means journey for survival's sake or travel to scour for areas of habitat. Nonetheless, since the earliest exploration of the African safaris and the inevitable bloom of the industry, safari became correlated with leisure travel amidst the wild. It may also be viewed as exploration of nature with the limit ascribing to the safaris alone.

At a glance, safari may present endless arrays of wild creatures, some only having their residence in the safaris while many can be found in other locations like the jungles or the forests. Some 500+ birds are found in the safari, not to mention the insects, bugs and the preys and predators.

Safari does not only have its focus on the wild. It mainly concerns culture and the interactions of people with the original settlers of the safaris- the lowly creatures.

With these ideas established we can now decide on what safari decoration to use. Let us give our focus on a room them.

The target room for which the safari decorations will be used must be themed primarily with woods or savanna concepts. The wallpapers or the wall paints can appear in shades of cream with touches of high grasses or visions of trees. It may also be that some display of safari activities is seen on the wall. However, be keen not to over-emphasize the decorations.

Now, on your furniture. Having a safari themed room would be more expensive than having it plain and conventional. Nonetheless, safari decorations are relatively more appreciated since they offer novelty and uniqueness. You may start with your wood furniture.

There are many resources where you may find concepts of safari furniture. One of which may be of tribal theme. But you may choose to have it simple with the use of plain wood home furnishings.

The key in safari decorations is to make every idea connected with the big picture. If you have wood furnishings then you might as well accessorize them with articles that you have bought from your recent safari trip. However, if you have nothing of these stuffs, you may choose to seek items from local home furnishing shops.

On top of these, add a touch of Africa with a painting that depicts the life found naturally in its realms. There are many concepts to choose from. Only, secure to it that all will merge as one big concept once you're done with decorating your room.

Your Next African Safari Adventure Starts Here

2008-01-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

Choice is never an issue when considering an African Safari with prospective safari seekers presented with any number of destinations, each offering it's own unique twist on adventure and education. Let's face it, an African Safari shouldn't just be a sight-seeing tour, it should also be an educational experience, one which should leave a lasting impression and a lifetime of memories.

Here's a shortlist of possible destinations:

South Africa

Despite South Africa's turbulent past, it offers a combination of both modern and historic destinations and is home to Kruger National Park,one of the world's first wildlife conservation parks. South African also has a lot to offer in the way of marine biology and when booking a tour, be sure to include these areas as part of your itinerary. Depending on the level of comfort and length, tours can range at a cost of a few hundred dollars up to $10,000.

Tanzania

Tanzania is a wildlife haven and is home to two of the world's most famous landmarks, Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. However, it's Tanzania's lesser known parks that make it an African Safari dream destination. Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and Tarangire aren't as famous as the Serengeti but each is a must see when travelling through this fauna and flora rich country.

Kenya

An African Safari in Kenya means getting close and personal with some of the most recognisable wildlife in the world. Home to the famous Masai Mara National Park, lions, elephants, rhinos and a myriad of other species are prevalent and spotted in Masai Mara making it a photo rich environment. Surrounding game reserves such as Samburu and Amboselli frank Kenya's standing as an African safari haven. Tours come in all shapes and sizes ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Botswana

Botswana has too many highlights to mention in this short summary but for those with a bit of an adventurous spirit and a love of dangerous game, then it's the place to go. Moremi Game reserve in the eastern Okavango Delta is a must visit for lovers of big cats such as lions, cheetahs and leopards. Throw in the Central Kalahari and Chobe National Parks and Botswana enscapulates what Africa, in a traditional sense, is all about. A variety of tours are available, again, ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars but in all honesty, to get a greater appreciation of Botswana, then an extended stay should seriously be considered.

These are just four African Safari destinations and probably the best known. If you are considering just one visit to this magnificent continent then make it a worthwhile one time wise. Tours don't just concentrate in one country. For extended stays, consider encompassing at least the quartet of destinations we've covered in this article.

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. What's your favorite african safari destination? Get the latest african safari related news and reviews at: http://www.african-safaris-site.com

Tips On Spotting Lion Country Safari

2008-01-06T22:06:00.001-08:00

The big five. Whoever gave that name and whoever designated which animals should be included in their revered group must be given honor since he (or they) have picked the best constituents of the group. But the question still arises why other more graceful and robust animals were not included in the list.

Why are not giraffe, being the tallest member of the animal kingdom is not chosen for the big five? Or the hippos and the gorillas, are they not large enough?

Actually, the term big five was not given primarily to the five members because they were large or graceful or tall. The main category facilitated by the hunters (and not the tour operators) is the difficulty of cornering these large animals and bagging them.

The lion, being one of the big five along with the rhino, buffalo, leopard, and elephant is very much esteemed since it is the king of the jungle. Though safaris are not exactly characterized as jungles in the typical sense, lion country safaris are still very much sought after.

Lions tend to be lazy though. However, it is their instinct to give as much distance away from humans if possible. This is why they are rather hard to hunt than those of the plains games like the antelopes, wildebeests and the likes. So how would one maximize lion country safari game viewing?

For one, you have to know the right season. It is usually the dry season that encourages the congregation of both preys and the predators in common places. These places are normally around the riverbed, water holes and the lakes. If you would not want to take the risk of getting to near with the lions and other wild animals, you may chose to avail small shelters that overlook the spots where animals naturally proceed. Nonetheless, you can maximize the use of your open vehicle.

Summer is not only good because it is when most animals group. This is also the season when vegetation is significantly thinned. Thus, better game viewing. It is strange how the biggest of elephants can camouflage with the thickest grasses but that still is the way that it goes.

Dry season varies depending on the region where you are camping. In the eastern Africa, first dry season occurs between January to March and the second dry season is from July to October. In southern Africa however, dry season extends from May through October.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

One day Kenya tour & safaris in Nairobi Kenya day tour package

2008-01-06T22:05:00.001-08:00

One day Kenya tour & safari. Have you ever found your self with a full 1 day to literally 'kill' while transiting Nairobi to Europe? Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) hosts so many transit travelers like you that have a one day wait till their connecting flight, usually in the evenings. There are many 1 day tours and safaris into Kenya that will make you wish you had more time on your hands.

Kenya one day Kenya tours

Nairobi airport is centrally located in Kenya and as such offers diverse options for one day Nairobi Kenya tours. These one day Kenya tours will range from having a wildlife park tour to simply whiling away in a comfortable hotel in town. Whichever your option, its best that you spend your hard earned dollar in a way that you make most out of it and the day at hand. Here I try to highlight some of the most interesting one day Kenya tours that will make your day worth spending in Nairobi.

1. Nairobi National Park 1 day tour The Nairobi National Park is the only park within a capital centre in the world. Located 10 min from the central business district, the park is an attraction to many business and 1 day transit travelers in Nairobi. The Nairobi National Park has a diversity of wildlife including the Zebra, lion, leopards, Hippopotamus, crocodile, gazelles, giraffe and buffalo. In addition, there are two very exotic restaurants that offer continental, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. Also within the confines of the park is the Nairobi animal orphanage which houses orphaned animals including cheetah, baboons, vervet and sykes monkeys, leopard, rhino, buffalo, Eland, oryx, ostriches, chimpanzees among many others. The one day Kenya tours returns to the city centre by sundown. Private one day Kenya tours and safaris can be organised in the morning within minutes. 2. National Museum one day Kenya tours

Located within the Nairobi town, the National Museum is a beehive of activity for tourists and transit travelers through Nairobi. At the National Museum there are spellbinding displays of early man, tribal regalia and the flora and fauna of Kenya. A visit to the adjacent snake park is also included. The one day Kenya tours turns to the city centre for more monumental and Nairobi landmark safari.

3. Daphne Sheldrick Sanctuary one day Kenya tours

Named and managed by the family of a legendary Kenyan Warden, the sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to be up, close and hugging with otherwise dangerous of the big five. The Daphne Sheldrick animal sanctuary is home to many orphaned elephants collected from Kenya's many National game reserves. Located within the Nairobi National Park the sanctuary also houses the only tame black and white rhino calves and adults. This Kenya one day Kenya tours can be combined with other city based sight seeing excursions.

4. Karen Blixen Museum one day Kenya tours

This 1 day tour starts in the morning or afternoon. You will be driven towards Ngong Hills and pass Ngong Village to the Karen Blixen Museum, for many years her home. Immortalized by the famous African Movie 'out of Africa' the Karen Blixen is a famous Kenyan coffee house and also offers delicious cuisines. Later proceed to the Giraffe Centre to see and feed the famous Rothschild Giraffe and her family.

5. Amboseli National Reserve 1 day tour

This one day Kenya tours sees you driving south through open grassland country deep into Maasai land. Visit to the Amboseli Park on the Shadows of the Mt. Kilimanjaro. Located 2? hours from Nairobi and at the foot of snow capped Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa for viewing elephants as well as cheetah, gazelle, giraffe, leopard and lion. Birdlife is too prolific here.

Mount Kilimanjaro, with its snow-capped peaks, 6,000 meters high, presides over a landscape containing more big game than almost anywhere in Africa. The Amboseli National Park is famous for the longest studied and habituated elephant herds. This one day Kenya tours is by far the best value for your money and you get to see more in a day than your eyes can take.

Only nature in all her majesty could create such a backdrop of a wildlife pageant found at Amboseli. Game is seen on much of the route to the park, which crosses ochre plains where Masai tend their cattle in an age-old tradition. Lunch is taken at the lodge in the park and is followed by another game drive where lion, elephant and the splendid cheetah are likely to be seen. After your one day Kenya tours, return to Nairobi in good time for dinner and flight back.

6. Nakuru National Park one day Kenya tours

The Nakuru National Park is Kenya's most visited National Park. Located 160km and 2? hours from Nairobi, the park is an important Ramsar site and home to thousands of different bird species.

The 188sq km Lake Nakuru is the only KWS-administered reserve that is fully enclosed. Once just a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru is now the best place in Kenya to see the highly protected black and white rhino. Among other animals found in the park include rhino, lion, leopard, flamingos, Egyptian geese, waterbuck, giraffe, hyena, buffalo, baboons, vervet monkeys, gazelles etc.

The park is also located within meters of Kenya's fourth largest township of Nakuru. This is a worthwhile 1 day tour and getting in time for your flight at Jomo Kenyatta international airport.

7. Mt. Longonot 1 day Tour

You will drive into the Rift Valley Escarpment and catch a glimpse of the beautiful escarpment. Arrival at Mt. Longonot National Park is within 1? hours to start hiking to the top and round the crater if time and your energy permits. (The hike up and round takes around two-three hours)

Picnic lunch is taken at the several rest points o at the top of the crater. Depart for Lake Naivasha and its environs. Enjoy a boat ride and view hippos, buffaloes etc. other optional activities include biking. Finish your one day Kenya tours and drive back to Nairobi in time for dinner and departure from JKI airport.

8. Bomas of Kenya one day Kenya tours

A boma is a homestead and just a few kilometres from the city, numerous homesteads reflecting Kenya's cocktail of cultures have been faithfully re-created for visitors to see traditional village life. But the greatest excitement during the afternoon is the display of traditional dancing, music and song performed in a splendid arena. This 1 day tour is ideal for the culturally oriented traveler who wants to sample Kenya's 42 tribes and cultures.

9. Nairobi Carnivore Restaurant

Nairobi has many restaurants offering a variety of cuisine. We recommend dinner or lunch at the carnivore, which is famous for its succulent stew and barbecue dishes as an excellent complement to a holiday in Kenya, especially as a welcome or a farewell dinner. The evening one day Kenya tours includes transfers to and from the airport.

10. Hell's Gate National Park one day Kenya tours

The Hells gate National Park is located in Naivasha, 1? hours from Nairobi airport. The park is famous for its sheer vertical cliffs that are popular with rock climbers and trekking enthusiasts. The rocky cliffs create a fa?ade so beautiful and multi-coloured that it rivals the Grand Canyon especially when stricken by the afternoon sun. Walks and biking are offered at the park. Animals to be found in the park include zebra, buffalo, gazelles, and other small game. This one day Kenya tours is ideal for adventure seekers who want to knock themselves out with a trekking, biking, and sightseeing safari.

Robert is a tour consultant and co-owner of Landmark Safaris Ltd in Kenya. Visit them @ http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/daytours.php to tailor your Nairobi-Kenya 1 day tour and grab your free http://www.eastafricasafari.blogspot.com

Safari in South Africa in the Kruger National Park

2008-01-04T22:22:00.001-08:00

If you are a foreigner looking for a good location in South Africa to spend your holiday, or even if you are a South African who just needs a weekend break, the Kruger National Park is ideal. You can find cheap accommodation and there is something to suit any budget.

The Kruger National Park is a nature reserve along the border of Mozambique. This border is clearly seen by the natural barrier, the Lebombo Mountains. The park, which is about 350km long and 60km wide on average, exists of plat grass and bush covered plains better known in South Africa as the savannah or bosveld. There are several entrances or gates to the park, each with its own name.

The Kruger National Park can be divided into three sections: the south, central and the north. The South, which is also known as the hill country of the Kruger National Park has easy access and a large number of camps and game drives. Central consists of open grassy plains, roamed by the large predators and herds. The North is a more remote part of the Kruger National Park, and thus offers more rest. It consists of mopane plains.

There is more than enough accommodation at the Kruger National Park. You will find many rest camps, as well as bush camps, the smaller version of a rest camp. All these camps have different names.

You can book a safari tour with an operator at the Kruger National Park. They will take you out in a 4x4, or minibus. This depends on budget. Some people however argue that a better way to experience the Kruger National Park is to hike. This means a guided walk where you get into close contact with the life on the park. Of course your guide will take all steps necessary to ensure your safety, such as staying out of scent ranges of the more dangerous animals. Many South Africans also prefer to drive the Kruger National Park by themselves. The Park has many facilities which make this possible, such as petrol stations etc.

Accommodation at the Kruger National Park is easy to find and not as costly as one might think. There is a selection of accommodation to suit everyone?s preferences. Booking is as easy as clicking a button. There are so many websites which allow you to ?design? your own holiday and then offer very affordable rates. You can also see maps of the Kruger National Park and decide which location you would like to rest at. You can find a bargain deal for your holiday break at the Kruger National Park. Visit the Kruger National Park in South Africa for a safari to remember!

Rodent Safari: How to get rid of Rats

2008-01-03T21:57:00.001-08:00

Have you heard the pitter-patter of tiny feet? Seen the precious gnaw marks on precious items? These are some of the first signs that you've got wildlife prowling around your very own home. Unfortunately, the creatures that have chosen to migrate into your homeland are not very friendly to the environment. Rats may not carry the black plague anymore, but they do carry at least 10 other diseases and contaminate food stores and cause property damage. When you spot those early signs, you have to go on the offensive right away. All you need is a little equipment and some knowledge about how to get rid of rats.

Know Your Prey

In order to catch your trophy rat, you have to know your prey, understand its behavior, and employ practical methods to catch him. Understanding how to get rid of rats starts here.

A rat can survive on as little as one ounce of food and water a day. They are generally nocturnal, which is why you'll probably start hearing them run around at dusk. A rat can and will eat any food that humans do, and, between their urine, droppings, and hair, they can contaminate ten times as much as they consume. When you learn how to get rid of rats, this is something you don't have to worry about any more.

Rats are xenophobic creatures. They are naturally suspicious of any new objects in their environment, which is why many traps don't work right away. They don't like going into wide open spaces, so they're more likely to run all the way around a room, pressed against the wall, than they are to run straight across it.

When you know how to get rid of rats, you can act quickly to stop them from doing some real property damage as well. Rats will gnaw on everything from wood, to plastic, to wires. They can cut through phone, network, and electrical lines, which has been the cause of countless fires.

Track 'em Down

The next step in how to get rid of rats is to find them. Look for their droppings, listen for noises in the wall or attic, or try to find the remnants of old nests. Because of their xenophobic tendencies rats tend to follow the same paths in their search for food. Look for smudge marks on walls, beams, or rafters, and gnaw marks on the wood. If you're still not sure, try dusting the area with flour and watch for footprints to appear.

Take 'em Out

The big question of how to get rid of rats is: what method works the best? There are a few options for you to choose from, some are more effective than others for bagging your trophy rat, and some are better depending on your individual circumstances.

Some people want to know how to get rid of rats humanely; others just want to know how to get rid of rats as fast as possible. Options for a rat trap include: poison, snap traps, single-catch live traps, multi-catch live traps, and glue traps. Poison is generally frowned upon, because household pets or children might get to it, and there's no guarantee where the rat will die. Knowing how to get rid of rats that died in a wall is a different matter altogether.

You also have to use a little tact when baiting a trap. As stated earlier, a rat is naturally suspicious of anything new in its environment. Many professionals recommend baiting the trap but not setting it. Feed the rat a couple times until it is used to it, and then you can set the trap. Chances are, you'll be able to catch more than a few this way.

Disposing of Your Trophy

Knowing how to get rid of rats includes knowing how to dispose of them properly. You don't actually want to keep your trophies from this safari. Always use gloves if you have to touch the rat. Wrap the corpse in plastic and bury it or throw it away. If you have chosen the catch and release method, be sure to check with the local Animal Control to find out where it would be okay to release them so you don't inadvertently damage another environment.

Andy Eliason is a Web Content Specialist at 10x Marketing. For more information on rat bait, rat traps, and how to get rid of rats at Do My Own Pest Control.

Ten Tips for a Top Safari

2008-01-03T21:56:00.001-08:00

For many people, an African Safari is an experience they want to cherish forever, and for good reason. A Safari experience is a special, soul-awakening adventure. It will excite. It will inspire. It is the experience of a lifetime.

To help ensure that your African Safari is all these things, we've put together:

Ten Tips for a fantastic Safari experience

Plan

Vital to any successful travel experience is proper planning. This is as important for an African Safari as it is for an intercontinental overland adventure trip. I will of course concede that the latter may take a fair bit more work...

Clothing

This is Africa and casual clothes are the order of the day. Neutral-colours are recommended such as beiges, browns and khakis to avoid alarming the game. Comfort is key to a pleasurable experience, so take along lightweight comfortable clothing.

Footwear Comfortable enclosed walking shoes are advisable. This especially important if you intend to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a bush walk.

Sun Protection

Take along a hat, sunglasses and sun protection cream.

Photography

Whether you're planning on getting that once-in-a-lifetime Safari snap or merely looking to have some kind of photographic record to share your safari experience with friends back home, remember to pack plenty of extra film or digital storage media and batteries.

Passports, Visas and customs concessions

Ensure that you have your valid passport. In some instances a Visa may be required as well. Confirm the specifics with your travel agent to ensure a trouble-free experience.

You will also need to acquaint yourself with the customs restrictions of the country you are visiting as well as your own country so that you don't experience any problems when entering either country.

It's also usually a good idea to make copies of all your important documentation and note down your traveler's cheque numbers. Store this information separately from the originals as a backup.

Time differences

Southern Africa is seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. If you are traveling across time zones, your body will need to adjust during the first few days of your trip. Bear this in mind when planning your trip.

Malaria precautions

Umlani is situated in a medium-risk malaria area. Proper precautions are therefore recommended.

Most brands of malaria medication need to be taken at least a few days before you are to be exposed to a malaria risk. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for detailed advice about the type of protection best suited for your situation.

Visitors are also advised to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to limit the risk of mosquito bites. This is especially true during the dusk to dawn period, when mosquitoes are most active.

Game Viewing

Wild animals are by their very nature potentially dangerous. The animals you are likely to see while out on safari are not pets. Of course, your guide will know all about this and will advise accordingly to ensure maximum safety and maximum enjoyment for all concerned. Listen to your guide at all times.

When is the best time for game viewing?

At Umlani game reserve, wildlife viewing is highly enjoyable throughout the year.

In the main wildlife areas, most rain falls during the South African summer encouraging lush vegetation but making game harder to spot.

From May to Nov, the grass is short and game is easily spotted. From August through to mid October, the last months of the dry season, game tends to concentrate near waterholes, making these ideal game viewing areas.

The Umlani Bushcamp was founded in 1989 in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, now part of the Kruger National Park. This luxury game lodge represents the ultimate in combining five-star comfort with the adventure of an African safari.

Guitar Lesson: Make A String Safari On Your Guitar

2008-01-02T22:01:00.001-08:00

It seems like many guitarists have a hard time reading sheet music. Let's start by learning to know the fretboard!

I think the most important part in learning to know the fretboard is to make a concentrated effort.

To be a poor sight reader is not part of your personality. Maybe it has become a habit to not doing something about it. Let's start with step one!

In this guitar lesson you will learn to find your way around the guitar fretboard and learning the notes on the six strings.

I call this a string safari as it might be a thilling experience to at last understand what you can find on the guitar fretboard.

Let's start by taking a look at the note E. Where can you find it on the fretboard?

With the conventional tuning of your guitar you will have the note E on the first open string. I guess you are aware of the fact that you can find the same note on the second string too.

This is the strength but also the difficulty with fretted instruments. You have a choice as to which string to choose.

On the second string you'll find the note E on the fifth fret. When you play E on the first and second string you'll find that they will have the same pitch but they sound a bit different.

On the third string you will find E on the ninth fret. Now you can practice playing the E notes on these three strings just to get used to the positions. It will help you immensely to know the positions for these notes as you play guitar sheet music.

You can proceed learning more of the guitar fretboard in a similar way. Let's continue!

On the fourth string you will find E on the second fret. This E will be one octave lower. On the fifth string you will find this E on the seventh fret.

On the sixth string you have the open E one octave lower. Let's make an exercice:

Try to play the note E on all the strings going from the first string, nearest your feet, up to the sixth string. What frets do you have to press down?

Using numbers indicating what frets you will have to press down we will get the following row of numbers:

0 5 9 2 7 0

0 means that you play the open first string. 5 means that you play the fifth fret on the second string and so on. Let's make the sequence a little bit longer.

We will play the strings from the sixth string down to the first and then back again. Remember to start with the sixth string!

Here you have the sequence written out:

0 7 2 9 5 0 5 9 2 7 0

You might want to invent other small exercises on you guitar fretboard, like playing all A's on all six strings until you can play them with ease.

Playing all A's on the fingerboard starting with the sixth string down to the first and back again will look as follows:

5 0 7 2 10 5 10 2 7 0 5

Knowing the notes on the guitar fingerboard will be a great help for you when you sight read guitar sheet music as you don't have to guess or search for the note on the fretboard anymore. It will also help you when you try to play a melody by ear or when improvising a solo.

Peter Edvinsson is a musician, composer and music teacher. Visit his site Capotasto Music and download your free guitar sheet music and learn to play guitar resources at http://www.capotastomusic.com

Animal Safari- Let Nature Balance Itself

2008-01-01T21:45:00.000-08:00

Now think of safari?of Serengeti?of wildlife sanctuaries?what images dominate your thoughts? Yes, animals.

Wildlife aside, safari would only be composed of a number of plant species, of terrain and of strange creatures like insects, bugs and the likes. Without the animals, African safaris would be reduced into a haven of sedentary and rarely moving species. Without the animal of the safaris, ecosystems would not exist. In a sense, animals add to the beauty that life in Africa may present. They give meaning. They add excitement. And they encourage tourism.

It is thought that African safaris started to become famous when the hunt for animals boomed sometime in the nineteenth century. This is because men then were perceived bold enough if they can kill wild animals right in their habitats and in action. This activity provides them a bag full of hunting trophies that adorned the walls of their libraries.

These days, a great thanks to movements for wildlife, hunting is restricted to many areas of African safaris. Nonetheless, there are still areas where slaughtering of wild animals are allowed. Because of the banning, travelers are now limited to only watch the animals hunt each other, predators to prey, and experience the exchange of life and death among them. Some of us still see hunting as a sport though.

The most famous of the animals in safari are known to be the big five which includes rhinoceros, lion, buffalo, leopard and the elephant. Why they became to be, no body is sure. Why other equally wonderful animals are not included in the list remains to be a mystery. It's safe to presume that that's simply the way hunters prefer it.

Adding to the big five are plain animals and mammals that coexist with each other. Some being the prey. Some being the predators. Nonetheless, they all take their parts in the circle of life. They give life.

Though not really considered animals, it is still worth saying that there are thousands of insect species, bugs, butterflies, and other moving creatures found in the African safaris. However large or big they can get won't really matter. They still balance wildlife and they aid in continuing the existence of ecosystems in African safaris.

Some people say, once human intervene with this natural process, even only for once, he may intervene with the succeeding years and life of the species that live in the safaris. And this seem to be true. Sudden and gradual fluctuations of population in the safaris are very much affected by the minute actions of the animals and other living things that exist in it.

Thus it is important that travelers and explorers let things be in the wildlife. Just allow them to exist and do as they were destined to do.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Top 10 Maasai Mara Wildlife Safari Lodges, Camps and Rentals

2007-12-30T21:24:00.000-08:00

1. Mara Safari Club

The Mara Safari Club is located on an oxbow of the Mara River at the foot of the Aitong Hills and bordering the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. The club is approximately 4 hours drive from Nairobi or 45 minutes by air.

The accommodation is in 50 luxurious ensuite tents all with river frontage allowing guests to watch wildlife. These are 45 standard tents, five premium tents, all with netted four poster beds, electricity and permanent bathrooms. Main building has the dining room, lounge and bar and is cantilevered over the river.

A free-form swimming pool and game drives by land cruisers are also offered including nightly entertainment.

2. Mara Serena Safari Lodge

The wildlife park lodge is set on a high ridge in the Maasai Mara National Reserve; the Mara Serena Safari Lodge has one of the most spectacular views in the whole of Kenya. It?s breath taking. The lodge is an interpretation of a traditional Maasai village of domed huts; these are spaced apart to allow guests an uninterrupted view of the Maasai Mara Landscape.

Accommodation consists of 74 guest rooms, two-twin with double bed and the rest with twin beds.

The main dining room, with its attractive multi-domed ceiling, offers international menus, buffets and barbecue and authentic African dishes. The lodge has a vantage outdoor pool as well as a full service lounge and bar.

3. Fig Tree Camp in Mara

The fig tree camp lies on the banks of the Talek River in the famous Maasai Mara National Reserve with good access to all areas of the reserve for game drives.

Guests here can choose to stay in either a tent or a cabin. There is a total of 75 spacious rooms and tents, all en-suite with private balconies. There are 38 tents with twin beds; 22 cabins with double and single beds; and five twin-bedded cabins.

Latest additions are 10 executive tents suites with luxury four poster beds, butler services and spectacular views of the Mara. Facilities include; two bars, main dining room, an open air dining area, a tree house/coffee deck, a swimming pool and guest lecture facilities, curio shop, video room, and a medical clinic and resident nurse. Local naturalist gives lectures on and slide projections on the Mara eco-system. Evening Maasai entertainment also included.

4. Governor?s Camp in Mara

Set up in 1972, governor?s camp has 36 luxurious tents on the bank of Mara River with views across the sweeping Mara plains. The camp sets standards in luxury accommodation in the Mara and is Africa?s best under canvas.

Guests stay in well appointed tents, each with their own bathroom. Evenings are devoted to cock tails around a bon fire and dinner by candle light. Each morning breakfast is prepared over blazing coals; mountains of bacon and eggs, fresh milk (flown in daily), hot ?baked croissants, exotic fruits and freshly brewed priced Kenyan coffee.

Both breakfast and lunch are served on the shady river bank with views across the Mara. Governor?s camp is for the tourist in need of that intimate interaction with nature under canvas.

5. Governors? Il Moran Camp in Mara

Governors il Moran camp is small but has added touches that make this top-of-the-range tented accommodation in Maasai Mara.

Secluded in the forest, there are just 10 tents that line the winding banks of the Mara River.

Each tent has a very private location and is furnished to a superior standard. Beds are hand made from specially selected wood taken from ancient olive trees. Large en-suite bathrooms have flush toilets, a big shower with piping-hot water and a Victorian bath.

The tents have an extended verandah so that guest can take dinner in private in their tent. Or visitors can just relax and enjoy the sights and sounds. Birds will be heard singing, elephants walk through the camp and at night leopard call nearby. Game drives and walks are included in the rate and complimentary wine is served with dinner.

In the day meals are served under the shady trees to include fresh fruits, cereals, hot-baked breads and a cooked breakfast. Deep in the bush, cordon-bleu dinners by candle light are truly unforgettable experience. The camp is a big favourite for honeymooners due the extremes they have gone to ensure privacy.

6. Governors? Private Camp in Mara

Governor?s private camp is for those that want some-thing exclusive. Private Camp can only be booked by one family or group at a time. As its name suggests, it?s private. It means up to 16 people have a beautiful bend of the Mara river all to themselves.

The camp is located at a spot where animals come to drink, hippo laze in the shallows and elephant bring their calves for wallowing. The surrounding forest is home to many birds too.

The tents are luxurious with hand made furniture. Private bathrooms have flush toilets, hot showers, with crystal clear water. Guests are allowed to even tailor their own menus and drinks are all free besides champagne.

The camp must be booked by a minimum of four guests staying for at least three nights.

7. Mara Explorer

Located on a thickly forested bend of the Talek River and opened in 2000, the Mara Explorer is widely regarded as one of the Maasai Mara most luxurious and well appointed camps.

Mara Explorer consists of 10 luxurious tents each with a butler on call 24 hours a day. Guests can enjoy morning and evening game drives, walking safaris, bush breakfasts and dinners or romantic sundowners in selected river side or hill top locations.

Mara explorer is an eco friendly camp with all non-degradable waste sent to Nairobi and water is heated using coffee husks.

8. Mara Intrepids

Only a 45-minute flight from Nairobi is the Mara Intrepids, located near the Mara River, where over a million wildebeest and zebra make the crossing during their migration in July and august.

There are 30 luxury tent and these are spread over a large riverside site to ensure privacy and peace for each guest. Tents are furnished in classic safari style, with four-poster beds and reproduction furniture and modern en-suite bathrooms.

Each tent sits on a shady raised platform with views over the river banks where a wide variety of animals come to drink.

Activities include three guided game drives each day; escorted walking safaris outside the reserve; bush breakfasts and dinners under the stars; and visits to neighbouring Maasai communities.

Guests can also arrange a dawn balloon safari or a fishing trip to Lake Victoria.

9. Olonana Camp in Mara

Olonana is a luxury camp idyllically located in the heart of the Maasai Mara big game country. The camp features 12 spacious tented pavilions each tastefully appointed with two queen-size beds, ensuite bathrooms and river view verandahs where guests can relax and watch the hippos wallowing.

A wide range of activities includes bush walks, visits to the adjacent Maasai cultural village, sundowners and day and night game viewing drives.

Olonana is at the fore front of in Kenya with solar power, a tree planting project and a wetlands project which allows for used water to be totally recycled before being released to the natural environment. In addition Olonana supports various projects to assist the local Maasai community.

The camp received a bronze rating award from the Ecotourism society of Kenya Eco-rating scheme and has also been selected as one of the top 15 safari camps in the world by ?Conde Nast Traveller? magazine.

10. Sarova Mara

Sarova Mara offers an opportunity to experience a tented safari. There are 75 luxurious tents, with permanent floors and roofs and their own bathroom set amid rush gardens an exotic flowers.

The resort has its own large pool with poolside bar. There is also a good restaurant, a second bar and a permanent barbecue. Guests can also book hot air balloons and see wildlife awakening in the savannah before landing to a sumptuous breakfast with champagne.

A variety of dinning experiences are on offer including bush, boma, garden, pool barbeque and salt lick. Walking safaris can also be arranged.

Robert is a tour consultant and co-owner of Landmark Safaris Ltd in Kenya. He is degreed in Tourism management and conservation. More information: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php Grab your relevant and free safari info: http://www.eastafricasafari.blogspot.com

Kenya Safari: The Fate of the Rhinos

2007-12-27T21:57:00.000-08:00

In Africa today, the fight for growth of the rhino population is an everyday activity. After being declared an endangered species, Kenya has put up big efforts financially to see to it that their habitats have been safe guarded.

The history of the rhino can be traced back to 45 million years ago. The Baluchitherium, an ancestor of the Indian rhino, was the largest land mammal that ever lived. It was 18 feet high and 36 feet long. It lived over 20 million years ago. Fortunately, the rhino is on its way back, thanks to the efforts of well wishers and volunteers.

THE PROBLEM

The problem of the rhino has been its beauty, the horn. It is made of keratin, a substance found in human hair and nails. Powdered Rhino horn has been used extensively in traditional medicine in Asia and to make ornamental dagger handles in the Yemen. The demand is so great that traders are prepared to pay poachers vast sums to kill rhinos for their horns. Because of these, Rhinos have faced wholesale slaughter. To stop these abuse governments and bodies such as Save the Rhino teamed up together to halt the abusive. Thanks to them, the overall decline of the rhino has been halted, and populations in Africa are beginning to stabilize.

A CLOSER LOOK

The rhino belongs to the family Rhinoceroteridae. They are 5 species placed in 4 genera. Three of these species are found in south-central Asia and the other two live in Africa south of the Sahara. Rhinos inhabit savannahs, shrubby regions and dense forests. The African species live in more open areas than do the Asian species. Their habitat has to generally have access to water. They usually drink everyday. Their horns are dermal growths originally composed of compressed keratin. Usually they have 1-2 horns. Both hind and forefeet have 3 digits with a small hoof. They are known to have poor eye sight but strong hearing and smell. The tough and wrinkled skin has very few scattered hairs. The tail ends with stiff bristles. Breeding..

Female rhinos give birth every 2 years to a single calf, which is active soon after birth. The calf remains with the mother until the next offspring is born. Gestation is 420-570 days. Sexual maturity is reached at 7-10 years for bulls and 4-6 years for cows.They a life span of up to 50 years.

Note that the African rhinos are more aggressive than Asian species. They use their horns to attack and toss their enemies. This can be especially dangerous and can kill attackers instantly. African white rhinos have a preference of feeding low to the open grounds whereas the black rhino usually browse on leaves and have a tendency to stay hidden. They have been noted to be more active in the evening, through the night and in early morning, spending their days resting in heavy cover. Rhinos sleep in both standing and laying positions and love to wallow in muddy pools and sandy riverbeds. They penetrate dense thickets by shear force, often leaving behind a trail that other animals later use. Rhinos run with a cumbersome motion, reaching top speed at a canter. They can, however, attain speeds of up to 45 km per hour for short distances.Basically the black rhino is more solitary and territorial except for the mother-child unit.

Groups of adult cows or bachelor bulls are sometimes formed, however, and during the mating season pairs of rhinos may stay together for up to 4 months. Rhinos mark their territories with urine and by dropping their dung in well-defined piles that can reach up to 1 m in height. They often furrow the areas around these piles with their horns and make the piles even more conspicuous. The black rhino has a wide vocal range and can possibly communicate like an elephant, through frequencies below the range of human hearing. Breathing is an important part of communication. Unlike the white rhino-calf, the black rhino calf normally runs behind its mother.

CURRENT STATUS

There were an estimated 20,000 black rhino in Kenya in the 1970s. By 1982 the population was reduced to fewer than 400. Since then, their number has increased and now stands at over 450. The number in fenced areas has risen at an average rate of four percent each year when the conditions are good. Since 1984 the Kenyan government has pursued an active program devoted to the recovery of Kenya?s black rhino, with efforts centering on the development of specially protected or fenced sanctuaries on government and private land, such as Lewa.

Rhino populations under custodianship both on private land (Solio Ranch) and in some State-run areas (such as Nairobi National Park) have provided set up for new populations (including reintroducing animals into an electrified-fence sanctuary inside the KWS-run Tsavo West and Meru National Parks). The private sector thus plays an important part in the conservation of rhino in Kenya and currently supplies many of the animals being used to restock state parks.

Kenya is currently the stronghold of the Eastern African subspecies Diceros bicornis michaeli, a home to about 88 % of the population in 1995. Like South Africa and Namibia, Kenya is doing translocation to set up new populations while aiming to ensure that donor populations remain productive. The public plight of the black rhino has attracted support from many different areas. Today, scientists are formulating a method of ?fingerprinting? rhino horn based on the nutrient content of each specific rhino conservation area. This will enable them to pinpoint the area a rhino came from, its family group, and even its preferred diet. It is also an important step toward eradicating poaching, as scientists will be able to determine where a rhino was when it was killed.

For more facts about Kenya wildlife visit http://www.natural-track.com

Peter Philip is the operator of Natural Track Safaris, a Kenya based nature safari company catering for family outdoor adventures, camping and overland safaris. For more safari information visit http://www.natural-track.com

African Animals And Safari In Disney World?

2007-12-26T22:00:00.000-08:00

We all know that Disney do not have theme parks in Africa. Well, at least not yet. Then why is it that people are talking about taking a vacation in Disney's African theme park lodge?

They are actually talking about The Animal Kingdom Vacation Lodge which is in the southwest corner of the Disney World situated close to the Animal Kingdom theme park. This excitingly themed and interesting lodge was officially declared opened in 2001. The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a fusion of African tribal native architecture with the exotic rugged style of East African National Park lodges. The Animal Kingdom Vacation Lodge was designed by Peter Dominick of Disney's Wilderness Lodge fame.

Stunningly breathtaking view of the 33 acre terrain architecture with flowing streams and elevated rock outcroppings can be viewed from half of the rooms at the lodge. Hundreds of friendly animals and birds of mostly African origin roam freely at the area. Most of the almost 1,300 rooms are about 340 square feet big and decorated with hand-crafted African furniture and furnishings. Almost all rooms come with a balcony to view the astounding surrounding.

The Animal Kingdom Lodge also offer fine dining in a casual setting at the Jiko restaurant. Jiko serves light, fast and simple meals. Another restaurant, the Boma is a family restaurant. This restaurant is the African version of the Whispering Canyon restaurant located at the Fort Wilderness Lodge and Villas. Boma serves buffet food in African thatched roofs and most dishes are grills - African tribal style cooking.

The Animal Kingdom Lodge is connected to the rest of the Disney World by buses as its location is rather remote and out of the way.

There are two wings at the ladge, branching from the rear of the resort are the Kudu Trial and Zebra Trial forming a semi circle around the central wildlife savanna. Each wing have seven five storey buildings with guest rooms for visitor to stay.

The best rooms are on third and fourth floors. This is because these rooms are high enough to overlook the entire savanna and yet at the same time just low enough to appreciate the flora and fauna at almost ground eye level. The second storey rooms are too low to view the savanna and rooms on the fifth floor are too high for viewing the friendly animals close up.

There are two smaller wings called the Ostrich Trail and the Giraffe Trial. However, rooms from these wings do not enjoy views as beautiful as the ones at the Kudu and Zebra Trail.

By staying in The Animal Kingdom Resort, you not only have a Disney vacation, but a touch of the African plains as well. Interesting mix, don't you think so? So if you are thinking of taking a Disney vacation, why not consider staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge at Disney World?
Read more exotic travel tales at Chris Chew's blog and website Hawaiian Cruise Vacation and China Travel Lijiang

Where To Go For Lion Safari

2007-12-25T22:26:00.000-08:00

All African safaris offer rare opportunities to catch a glimpse of creatures that may only be found in the wild. And as vast and diverse as Africa can get, it can provide unimaginable things from the strangest to the wildest creations there are.

Lion safari, one of the keen focuses for most travelers since it offers satisfactory game can be found in various sites in Africa. It is the passport for adventure where a guest may spot nature working within itself to maintain the equilibrium.

Lion safari is best encountered in its natural habitat. Some of the well-known sites of lion safari are the following:

Kruger National Park
Because of the Kruger's excellent game-viewing opportunities, it is included in the top priorities when it comes to lion safaris. It is created even before the emergence of some of the national parks that we now enjoy, which makes it the pioneer in the field. The preservation was initiated in 1889 to help protect the wildlife of South Africa, which then was faced, with the swelling problems of unrestricted hunting.

Pilanesburg National Park
Lion safaris are found in Pilanesburg, which is revered for its being malaria-free, thus the comfort of game-viewing.

Kalahari Gemsbok National Park
Because it is naturally intended to create a haven for wildlife animals, Kalahari is home to unimaginable number of animals. It is characterized by being semi-dessert, which borders in between Namibia and Botswana.

Chobe National Park
Found in Botswana, Chobe is recognized for harboring the largest congregation of buffalo and elephants.

Linyanti Game Reserve
Linyanti Game Reserve, on the other hand, nurses the largest prides of lions and equally large population of some good preys such as the elephant.

Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Being included in the list of most famous reservation parks, these two harbors the impressive tree-climbing lions and black-maned lions respectively.

Masai Mara National Reserve
Found in Kenya, Masai Mara collects a year round game-viewing and is the finest national park in all Kenya.

Serengeti National Park
On top of the heap is the Serengeti, which is also known for another name- the big cat central, which is so much closer to the truth. Since grasslands dominate the seemingly endless land, it is much easier to view games here. The migration of wildebeest and the collection of buffaloes and zebras make Serengeti a great place for the interplay of preys and predators. Yearly, millions of wildebeests come here between the months of April to August to seek better grazing in the far South.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Botswana Mobile Safari

2007-12-23T21:49:00.001-08:00

Camping?s not my thing. Experiences to date have been limited to the odd night supervising the children in the garden. So it was with some anxiety that I set off for Northern Botswana to spend five nights in a tent. I needn?t have worried. All my fears (and there were many) were swept away within ten minutes of arriving at our first camp site. Set among trees and looking out over a dry floodplain in the Moremi Game Reserve, our six tents were well equipped with proper beds and bathrooms and were very comfortable.

The camp staff were great fun, extremely knowledgeable and perfect hosts. The early mornings and late afternoons were spent on game drives in the park, where we were treated to a wonderful variety of birds and animals. Our guide too was excellent. There was a constant stream of interesting facts and figures, and not once did I feel we compromised safety in order to get close to any animal.

After two nights, we moved to a simple ?fly camp? on an island in the Okavango Delta. After drifting up and down river channels during the day, we arrived at a tiny wooded island, where just our bed rolls and mosquito nets were to be our accommodation for the night. A sundowner on a nearby lagoon, supper and then sleeping under the stars, listening to strange noises, is something I shall not forget in a hurry. I had expected to feel very vulnerable with just a thin piece of netting between me and a lot of things with big teeth. But I was amazed how safe I felt once zipped into my ?home for the night?, well hidden under the duvet.

We left the island to spend another two nights back in Moremi. This time the camp site was next to a large lagoon, and as we arrived in the late afternoon we had to wait for a huge herd of elephant to cross our path on their way to drink and play in the water.

I couldn?t have been more wrong in my initial ideas about a mobile safari. I had imagined danger at every turn, uncomfortable nights and ordinary food. In fact, I had a wonderful experience. I never once felt in any danger, but there was plenty of excitement. The food was fantastic - how our cook managed to produce what he did over an open fire is a mystery. And as for uncomfortable ... showering in the open air and sleeping under canvas, trying to work out what?s making that noise outside the tent, beats any five star hotel. I can?t wait to go again.

http://www.aardvarksafaris.com/articles-botswana-mobilesafari.htm

Charlotte Opperman first visited Africa on honeymoon in Kenya, when a love of Africa (and hopefully her husband) was born. She has since visited Botswana, Namibia and the Seychelles. Charlotte has also tested a number of our trips with her husband and two sons. So far they have visited Mauritius, South Africa (twice) and Kenya, so she is a great person to talk to if wanting to travel to Africa with children. A keen horsewoman Charlotte rides and competes regularly, and has ridden in both Southern and East Africa. Her desire for comfort in unspoilt surroundings makes her a good yardstick when planning a safari for many of our clients. Her close attention to detail ensures our clients never leave home unprepared.

Family Safaris

2007-12-21T21:11:00.000-08:00

The demand for a family friendly safari has increased tenfold over the past year, and since launching our Family Safari Brochure in July 2002 we have had a tremendous response from families with children covering a broad age range.

Many of the operators in Africa have responded well to this new area of the market and some have thought carefully about the requirements and constraints when having children in their camps. Activities to suit children of all ages, specialist guides, meal times, babysitters and private vehicles are some of those that have been considered. The subtle balance of inclusion and exclusion of families can take some planning. Although a family safari is by name an adventurous holiday, you do need to feel that safety issues regarding children have been examined. Safety standards in Africa are very different to those in Europe and we do question lodges and camps quite closely on aspects such as fencing around pools, steep drops and the general suitability for younger family members.

A happy and satisfying family holiday general means that everyone involved can find activities to suit them for most of the time. In many of the family-friendly lodges this has been well catered for. This may mean that the parents enjoy a morning game drive, the youngest child is baking biscuits in the camp kitchen and the older children are collecting dung. It's a great bonus for even the littlest person to come home with their own and very special memories.

Wilderness Safaris in Southern Africa have solved what has been a worry for some parents. In most tented camps it has not been possible to add an extra bed into the standard tents. This has meant that children have to sleep in a separate tent. This may in reality be only five metres away, but it?s too far for comfort. To solve this concern, in some of their camps in Botswana and Namibia, Wilderness have successfully created a family tent by adding an extra tent onto the back of the bathroom. Wilderness have also lowered the age range and they now accept children from 8 years of age in all their camps. However, if you wanted to take any camp on an exclusive basis, perhaps sharing it with another family, this lower limit would be waived. Some lodges will automatically provide a separate vehicle for a family group, which means that you can take your game viewing at a pace which suits you. We would actively encourage all families to take this option, even if it?s not offered as an inclusive. It does mean that if one of the children gets fed up on a game drive, you can stop and calmly enjoy a coffee, just sitting or mucking about under a tree without worrying about other clients and their reactions.

The content and timing of meals is another area that most family-friendly camps have looked at. There are few parents that don't enjoy a child-free evening meal at the end of the day (those of us with young children particularly) and children are much happier eating something they recognise at a sensible time. This is also made possible by the general availability of babysitters, childminders or nannies; available at most lodges during the day and evenings at very reasonable rates, but don't expect a fistful of official European-style qualifications. As with many African women, most will have successfully raised large families of their own.

Kwando Safaris located in Botswana's Okavango Delta have a specialist children's guide, Lisa Reed. Lisa has worked extensively with children from the very young to teenagers. To begin with she prepares special materials which are sent to the children at home and she then takes them through a purpose-designed programme while they are in the bush. Serious though it may sound, it's beautifully crafted to entertain, educate and match each child's concentration threshold.

Another question is of course whether to travel to an area that is malaria-free or not. South Africa offers a range of safari camps in malaria-free locations, which of course can be successfully combined with any number of family orientated beach lodges and activities on the Indian Ocean coast or in Cape Town. We have already successfully combined these areas for several families and this includes Charlotte at Aardvark who recently took her husband and seven and nine year old boys to South Africa.

For those who are happy to take preventative medication for malaria, Malarone has now been launched in the UK in a children's formula. It is the first malaria tablet to be designed for kids and so far it has been licensed in the UK, USA, Denmark as well as a couple of other European countries. The best news is that the tablets are small and film-coated, so they are not bitter to taste. The course starts the day before travel and finishes only seven days after your return home.

If malaria isn't an issue, Kenya genuinely welcomes families. Not only at camps such as Rekero and Cottars in the Masai Mara, but also in some of the ranch style properties that offer a perfect base for a family holiday. The private properties such as Loisba and Lewa Downs provide comfortable settings with any number of varied and wonderful activities on tap, in addition to traditional game drives. These properties are owner run and many have raised their own children in the bush, a fact which is most reassuring.

Robin Pope Safaris in Zambia have an itinerary which is particularly suited to families by offering Nkwali Camp in the South Luangwa. It has open lawns shaded by huge ebony trees and a large fenced swimming pool. All the staff are child friendly and safety conscious. Game drives, walks, visits to the local school, cooking and collecting leaf, dung and feathers all feature on the activity list and safari packs and colouring books are all provided. Each programme will be tailored to the number of children and their ages. And meanwhile Robin & Jo Pope are currently renovating their own house at Nkwali, which will be available for exclusive bookings shortly.

Tangala House is another private residence in Zambia, this one is located on the banks of the Zambezi River close to Victoria Falls. It's beautifully equipped and is therefore an ideal place for families with all the facilities of a family home, including nannies. A wide range of activities are on offer in the immediate vicinity including canoeing, rafting, game drives, white water rafting and elephant riding.

Another option would be to do a private mobile safari, possibly in Kenya, Botswana or Tanzania, which country would depend to a degree on the age of your family. Accommodation would be in simple but comfortable tents with your own personal guide and camp staff. You would have the option to tailor-make all your game activities at a pace to suit and involve all the family with the safari experience.

The restrictions with older children are obviously fewer and once they are twelve years old, they are considered to be adults except on some of the more adventurous activities. An excellent teenage holiday would be to spend some days in Victoria Falls indulging in some of the more active pursuits and to combine this with perhaps a walking, canoeing or riding safari.

Many families will combine a safari with some time on the beach, which you can do very well in South Africa, Kenya or Tanzania or you might wish to just concentrate on a beach and water activities type of holiday. If that is the case, you can't do much better than Mauritius where there is a wide range of excellent hotels and resorts that welcome families with children of all ages. The variety of activities is excellent and most hotels have children's clubs that are open on a daily basis.

Each individual family will have its own criteria when putting together a holiday to suit, so it is exciting to see that there is now a tremendous variety of exciting, educational and relaxing options throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean to chose from. As more families are taking the opportunity to visit Africa, it really is worth planning well ahead for either a trip during a half term or a main school holiday. We are now finding that the most popular properties are getting booked up well in advance.

Be warned though, once you have introduced the family to Africa they will keep asking you for more.

http://www.aardvarksafaris.com/articles-family-safaris.htm

John Spence originally cut his teeth as a cocktail barman in Cape Town and white water raft guide in Zimbabwe. This unorthodox first travel to Africa buried a strong seed of love for that continent which has grown and grown. Endless weird and wonderful trips to Africa on horse back, by canoe, on foot, light aeroplane and behind the wheel of his own Land Rover have yet to fully satisfy his thirst for knowledge of Africa. John?s two children are also set to become safari experts and are beginning to accompany him on some of his less adventurous trips so he?s a good person to talk to about family holidays as well. An itinerary to Africa designed by John will be based on a huge bank of knowledge and a big injection of enthusiasm and adventure.

A South African Family Safari

2007-12-20T23:16:00.000-08:00

Having eagerly read much of the information in the office on South Africa, we decided to go and see for ourselves as a family. The family being my husband and myself and our two boys aged seven and nine. With three weeks to fill and a variety of tastes to cater for, we planned to start the trip in Cape Town, then onto the Waterberg Mountains in Limpopo Province, and finally to Madikwe on the Botswana border. All three are malaria free areas.

Cape Town really does live up to all the hype. Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain, with its wild beaches and rugged coastline, it?s like no other city I?ve visited. Accommodation varies from grand five star hotels to the hundreds of bed and breakfasts all over the city. Since grand hotels and small boys don?t generally mix, we decided to go for the B&B option. So from our very comfortable B&B base in Constantia with its own pool we had ten days in which to explore.

There had been press reports before we left about the dangers of travelling in South Africa, and I did wonder whether we should go or not. However, once we arrived, we felt just as safe as we do in the UK. Driving was very straightforward and we managed with a simple tourist map. Highlights for the children were the beach at Fishhoek where they surfed for hours, Boulders Bay where they swam with penguins, and a wonderful boat trip where we barbecued and enjoyed the crayfish on board. Another hit was the Scratch Patch at the Victoria and Albert Waterfront, a small cave-like room which has a floor covered in semi-precious stones. You pay for a bag and then cram as many stones into it as you can (our youngest asked whether it was OK to fill his pockets too). For any budding geologists, it?s a must.

From an adult perspective, the Constantia wine estates with their graceful Cape Dutch architecture are really lovely. The old City dock area of Cape Town has been re-developed into the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront; it?s full of life, and a fun place to eat and shop. Cape Point Nature Reserve was something we all enjoyed; there are one or two good beaches, a few animals (the baboons caused much excitement) and Cape Point itself is spectacular.

The wineland areas of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, about an hour from Cape Town, are stunning, with great restaurants, shops and galleries. Many of the wine estates en route are open to visitors and you can both picnic there and wander through the grounds.

From Cape Town we flew up to Johannesburg and then drove north west about four hours to the Waterberg Mountains. Our destination was Ant?s Nest, a privately run game lodge that is booked on an exclusive basis by a single group. As far as we were all concerned, it was heaven. The boys could run free, I could ride and my husband even managed to get in a bit of stalking (an unsuccessful but much talked about warthog hunt). We spent a truly blissful four days here dividing our time between riding (horses for all abilities), game drives, bush walks, swimming and generally relaxing and mucking about.

The lodge is set in an area that varies from wide open grass plains to steeply wooded hillsides. It was farmland until relatively recently, and the current owners have reintroduced a large number of antelope species as well as giraffe, rhino and zebra. Riding among these animals at sunset on New Year?s Eve is something I shall not forget in a hurry.

The wonderful thing about having the lodge to ourselves was that we could be totally flexible about what we did and when. If the children didn?t want to ride early in the morning or evening, they would be taken on their own game drive instead. They drove (with assistance) the vehicles, game viewed from the back of a motorbike, pretended they were cowboys in the bush, swam with horses and shot on the small private shooting range on land that is adjacent to Ant?s. It will certainly be a while before I find somewhere that beats this as such a complete family destination. After visits by my family and others to Ant?s, there is now a queue of small children, boys in particular, waiting to give up school and go to work there.

For our final four days, we drove four hours west to the Madikwe Game Reserve on the border with Botswana. Again it is malaria free, and we had chosen to stay first at Jaci?s Safari Lodge and then at Jaci?s Tree Lodge. Both properties (run by the owners Jaci & Jan Van Heteren) welcome families with children from any age. The safari lodge is a tented camp approached via a rope bridge over a small river. This entrance made quite a dramatic impact on the children who really had no idea what to expect from a safari. They were amazed and delighted to find that our tent was rather bigger and more luxurious than the one they use in the garden. When we moved to the tree lodge, we had an even larger cottage-style room, and they spent great deal of time in the enormous outside shower watching the vervet monkeys scurrying around the walkways.

Their response to game viewing was more surprising. My eldest son just loved everything about it and couldn?t wait for the next game drive. He wasn?t phased by elephants literally feet away or lions roaring by the bonnet of the vehicle. At the end of four days, he was able to distinguish between most of the antelope species and was even getting into the birds. The youngest was of the impression that once you?d seen one elephant what was the point of seeing more. We plugged him into a Walkman and with a constant supply of fizzy drinks he too sat very happily during the game drives. Our guide was very good-natured and even made Zulu spears for the boys.

In summary, we had a tremendous three weeks and we all want to go back for more. The huge diversity of activities, from swimming with penguins, to wine tasting, to riding in the bush made us feel that we had been away much longer than three weeks. In terms of a family holiday, there really was something for all of us and we shall all remember it for some time to come.

http://www.aardvarksafaris.com/articles-southafrica-familysafari.htm

Zambia: A True Grass-Roots Safari

2007-12-19T21:55:00.000-08:00

The key to a good safari is undoubtedly the quality of the guiding and how guests are hosted during their stay. Having travelled to Kenya and Botswana on previous trips I had experienced two of the best safari destinations that Africa has to offer. I?d heard that Zambia offered a more grass roots safari and was therefore eager to find out how it looked after those in search of a great wildlife experience.

Arriving in the Lower Zambezi off the back of a connecting flight from Lusaka and an overnight flight from London never puts you in the best frame of mind for starting a safari. What helps is the warm reception of a confident host and at Chiawa Camp this came in the form of Grant and Lindsay Cummings. Grant set up Chiawa, the first camp to be located in the Lower Zambezi National Park, in 1989 and as a founding member of Conservation Lower Zambezi he has taken the camp and the park from strength to the strength. His passion for the bush is evident from the moment you meet him. He encourages you to do every activity on offer to see how far the park has developed and this is before you?ve even been shown your tent. Grant?s enthusiasm passes through to the rest of his team and our guide Joe was testament to this. On our first night drive with him we were lucky enough to come across a leopard stalking some impala. We carefully followed the leopard, making sure we did not impede its hunt. As we followed Joe gave us a commentary on its hunting habits; how it stalks, how often it eats and all this whilst driving through thick woodland?.. without any headlights on! The leopard?s hunt was unsuccessful on this occasion, but that didn?t matter as we had learnt so much. It is always going to be tough to follow up such a wonderful encounter. Joe did it confidently though, not by tearing round the park trying to find us something more exciting, but simply by finding us a clearing, switching off the engine and giving us a commentary on the huge starscape above our heads. Of course if an aardvark had walked by I would have named him ?Superguide?, but that would have taken a whole lot of luck.

From the Lower Zambezi my trip took me north east to both North and South Luangwa. Our accommodation in North Luangwa was at Kutandala, a simple reed and thatch camp beside the Mwaleshi River. This is home to Rod and Gus Tether. Not only do they run and manage the camp, but they are also raising their two young sons out in the bush, no mean feat. The emphasis at Kutandala is on walking and Rod is one of the best guides that Zambia has to offer. Tracking lions on foot is one of the options, but the lions were not close by so we took a more scenic and refreshing day?s walk to the Mwaleshi Falls. On the way Rod pointed out and identified numerous birds and animals and diverted the walk to view a large pod of hippo wallowing in the river, a spectacular sight close up. When we arrived at the falls, Rod?s eyes lit up and it was almost as if he was sharing one of his favourite toys with us. Lazing in the afternoon sun after a great barbeque it was going to be difficult to muster the energy for a swim in the rock pools let alone the walk home.

Not to be outdone by Rod?s barbequing skills, Gus produces what can only be described as miracle food out of her simple bush kitchen. Kutandala, like many other camps has its own salad and vegetable garden on site so tasty, fresh produce is always at hand. However when Gus produced a homemade sorbet and brandy snaps for pudding at lunch followed by homemade ice cream in an ice bowl later that evening, I was truly amazed. I would challenge any London chef to produce such high quality food with such limited resources in such a remote location. Food is an important part of safari life and Gus?s was the best I experienced in Zambia.

Robin Pope Safaris is one of the most successful operations in South Luangwa and Nsefu Camp located on the eastern banks of the Luangwa River is in the heart of an abundant game area. Of course the wildlife has to be there, but a good guide will be able to find it and talk about it with confidence. Our guide at Nsefu was Kerry. This was the first female guide I?d seen since I was piloted and guided by a four foot ten bush lady in Zimbabwe. She had proved herself to be a superb guide so I eagerly anticipated seeing what Kerry could show us on our night drive. I?d heard that she was good on birds so I decided to put her to the test. ?How about seeing if we can find some owls?? I asked as we set off. Within 10 minutes Kerry had found us an owl. ?Where?? We all said, scanning the trees for a large, fluffy bird. ?In that bush over there?, indicated Kerry, pointing to a bush some two hundred metres from the track. With the help of a large pair of binoculars I found our owl, a pearl-spotted owl, about the size of a dove. An impressive spot! Later on in the drive, after the sun had gone down we came across a pair of porcupines, dimly lit in the moonlight. We watched them with the aid of the spotters lamp for a while before I asked if we could get any closer. Unperturbed, by the steep bank that we and the land cruiser we going to have to tackle, Kerry set off giving a perfect demonstration of four by four driving. As we got closer Kerry turned the headlights off. ?I?m still learning,? she said. ?Just last week I discovered that if you turn the headlights off you can get within 20 metres of the porcupines.? As a result we got a really close up sighting of these unusual animals.

Our last destinations were Kafue National Park and the Busanga Plains, about an hour?s flying time, west of Lusaka. Busanga is the only place in Zambia where cheetahs are sighted on a regular basis. The wide open plains that flood after the December rains offer the perfect habitat during the dry months for these sleek cats, but seeking them out in the long grass takes the skill of a good guide. This time it was Lexon, who having grown up in the area knows Busanaga like the back of his hand, and together with Benson, his eagle eyed spotter, made sure that we got to see the cheetahs.

When it comes to tracking cheetahs, a guide living in camp has an obvious advantage over the average guest who spends only perhaps three or four days there. A guide will know the animals? territory and when they were last spotted, though, of course, he does still have to find them. I was in camp at Busanga for only 16 hours, but Lexon and Benson eagerly took up the challenge. Sure enough, within an hour of arriving in camp, we found five cheetahs (a mother and her four one year old cubs) bathing in the soft rays of the setting sun. A good guide thinks long term and by giving the mother and her cubs distance in their early stages he had earned their trust. The result was five cheetah approaching the Land Rover for some of the best photo opportunities I?ve ever had.

I returned from Zambia wholly impressed by the quality of guiding and hosting. I had found that a similar standard was apparent in all of the camps that I visited. I?ve recently travelled to Botswana, certainly the most upmarket of all the safari destinations, and to Kenya visiting some of the most pioneering and conservation-minded ranches in Africa. While Zambia can?t quite match the sheer glassy waters of the Okavango Delta or the density of game of some of Kenya?s finest reserves, for me it offers a unique experience of Africa. The accommodation is comfortable without being overwhelming, the hosting is excellent and the guiding can only be described as brilliant. In Zambia natural Africa is allowed to take its place centre stage.

http://www.aardvarksafaris.com/articles-zambia-grassroots

Charlie Gray first visited Africa when he was four years old with his parents and big brother. They drove themselves around South Africa and also went on the Blue Train, lucky boy. He has since been back many more times visiting South Africa again, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Zambia. With a degree in geography he has always had an interest in the world and travel. When not talking to clients he likes nothing more than looking over as many maps as possible and planning his next African adventure. He has spent all his working life in the travel industry and you can be sure your trip will be well planned by Charlie ensuring you get the most out of your holiday.

A Honeymoon Safari Challenge

2007-12-18T21:50:00.000-08:00

Four countries and six locations (including river, beach, Delta, desert and coast) in eighteen days sounds more like a challenge for charity than an enjoyable and inspiring holiday. But that?s the sum of a fabulous trip we recently arranged for Stephen and Bryony Wolf on their honeymoon. Always of the opinion that a well paced trip does not include too many countries, too many locations and too few nights in one place, we felt challenged by the request to include Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa in one itinerary.

After three days relaxing at the River Club on the banks of the Zambezi close to Victoria Falls, a short flight took them to Chief?s Camp in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Located in the Mombo concession, game viewing here is incredible with very dense animal concentrations particularly predators. A short hop by light aircraft to Maun was followed by a direct flight to the Namibian capital Windhoek. Here they had a one night stop at Hilltop House a simple but comfortable bed and breakfast. And then onto the three night Schoeman?s fly-in safari, a legend in itself providing some of the most extraordinary visions of the Skeleton Coast, Damaraland and Kaokoland accompanied by guides who have lived and breathed this part of Namibia since birth.

Next came another flight, this time to Johannesburg and an overnight at our favourite boutique style hotel, Ten Bompas, only a short drive from the airport.

The finale to their spectacular holiday was a four night stay at Rocktail Bay Lodge on the Indian Ocean coast of South Africa. A great beach location, wild and safari-like, with wide open beaches and superb diving and snorkelling.

A great challenge and a great trip.

http://www.aardvarksafaris.com/articles-honeymoons-challenge.htm

Botswana Riding Safari Welcomes Non-riders

2007-12-17T22:00:00.001-08:00

Traditionally known for it?s superb riding, Okavango Horse Safaris now offer game drives and mokoro (dug out canoe) trips for non-riding partners. The main camp in the heart of the Okavango Delta, has a couple of vehicles, and with specialist guides flown in from Maun, non-riders can be sure that they will see the best game the region has to offer.

Days can also be arranged so that riders and non-riders meet up for lunch or at overnight fly camps. These are simple tented camps where clients will spend one or two nights. For riders there are some 60 horses to choose from, and either a five or ten day itinerary. A maximum of eight people can ride for between four and six hours a day, and on both the longer and shorter itineraries there is the opportunity to fly camp.

Also based within the Okavango Delta is African Horseback Safaris. Again they have a great reputation for good horses, excellent riding and game viewing, though they are perhaps more suitable for riders than non-riders. Another recommendation for riders and non-riders travelling together, is Ant?s Nest in South Africa?s Waterberg region. There are also excellent riding safari opportunities in South Africa, Malawi and Kenya. In Zambia it is possible to take day rides from Chundukwa River Lodge on the Zambezi, and from Shiwa House in the north for longer trails. Shiwa is part English stately home and part Tuscan villa, and this extraordinary bush location provides a unique base for your four day riding trail through indigenous forest and open plains.

Anyone considering going on a serious riding safari (rather than just hacking gently in the bush) should be able to rise to the trot for ten minutes, should be comfortable at all paces, and be happily able to gallop out of trouble. It is a great advantage if you are a fit and proficient rider as your safari will be much more enjoyable.

http://www.aardvarksafaris.com/articles-botswana-ridingsafari.htm

Campaign for Real Safaris

2007-12-14T21:40:00.001-08:00

I can still tell you exactly where I was when I saw my first African elephant. I can tell you who I was with when I saw my first glimpse of a leopard, a pride of lions and even the Victoria Falls. This underlies what a privilege it is to visit such wonderful unspoilt areas and see for yourself the wildlife and the people who live, work and survive in these stunning places. It was while I was working in Zimbabwe that I saw so many of my firsts.

Several friends and work colleagues were trainee or newly qualified guides, so on our days off we would spend more time in the bush. It was enthralling, and very addictive. When I finally returned to the UK a year later I knew I would get into the safari business somehow.

It is now ten years since I arranged and sold my first tailored itinerary and I still enjoy it to this day. But the one trend I feel rather uncomfortable about is the need for more luxurious & extravagant lodges. It seems to be out of control and somehow missing the point. So often the luxurious nature of a lodge is sold as its most important virtue over and above the unspoilt location, excellent game viewing and, most important of all, superb guiding.

A good safari operation should be run by experienced enthusiasts, not just business and marketing gurus. I feel very strongly that staying in a remote unspoilt area, in a simple camp only accessible by light aircraft, is a luxury. In an area where you can witness great game through the eyes of good guides with comfortable camp conditions, this is the true privilege.

Why not allow us to come up with a real safari for you? It can be as comfortable or as strenuous as you wish. Please don?t be led only by the glossy brochure, slick website and promise of the Big Five. Often the best guides and safari operators are not that proficient at marketing themselves. They often generate business though word of mouth alone.

Some of the ?real safaris? we are particularly excited about:

Mokoro Trails (Botswana)
See wonderful game and birds as you glide quietly through the channels and flood plains of the Okavango Delta by makoro (dug-out canoe).

Mahale (Tanzania)
In a dramatic location at the base of the Mahale Mountains overlooking Lake Tanganyika, lies this stylish rustic camp from where you trek into the forest in search of chimpanzees.

Palmwag Rhino Camp (Namibia)
A mobile camp that has been set up in conjunction with ?Save the Rhino Trust? in rugged northern Damaraland to help track and monitor the desert Black rhino.

Olivers (Tanzania)
Located close to Tarangire National Park Olivers has a simple base camp, fly camps and mobile camps which allow you to enjoy the diversity of terrain, the wide variety of wildlife species and the migration from December to February by vehicle or on foot.

Katavi (Tanzania)
In one of the most remote parts of south west Tanzania, with some of the greatest concentrations of game, including sable and roan antelope, is a simple tented camp from where you can game view by vehicle or on foot.

Some Interesting Safaris To Seek Wildlife

2007-12-13T21:46:00.000-08:00

Thinking of wildlife safari? Africa has got it all. Nearly a hundred percent of its reserves and wildlife sanctuaries feature wildlife of some sort. However, the coverage of wildlife species and the varieties that you may see differ as the region changes.

We have created brief descriptions of the top five Tanzanians wildlife safaris that rank near the top of the list in all Africa. Please read on?

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The worse you can call Ngorongoro is amazing. That would be more than that, there is definitely not a word that can describe this conservation area.

Ngorongoro is the home of the largest caldera on earth. With walls reaching to 2200 meters high, this is fairly equal to Mount Kilimanjaro before the eruption. Thus the consideration for it being one of the world's natural wonders.

The caldera itself is not a plain heap of land that stood on its place and make people amazed. No. In fact, once the caldera settled, it began to create pools of water that attract some 30,000 wildlife species at any given time. More like a Garden of Eden, Ngorongoro harbors the largest congregation of games in the entire earth.

Tarangire National Park

Elephants?elephants?elephants?its obvious. When you want to see large herds of elephants with accompanying buffaloes, your best bet would be the Tarangire. The number of elephants concentrating here is almost 600 individuals during the peak season.

However, less tourists visit here since they are attracted to neighboring national parks such as the magnificent Serengeti and the mighty Ngorongoro. The dry season harbors the largest population of elephants along with other enormous animals and plain beasts, which benefit from the vast water resources of the Tarangire River. They disperse during winter though.

Lake Manyara National Park

Ask anything about Lake Manyara and collect them all in one heap, tree climbing lions will emerge as the top answer. It is true. Climbing lions that prefer sleeping the day up on the tree branches than lying comfortably in the grasslands as all other lions do.

While it gather its fame from the strangely dispositioned lions, it is also popular for its large congregation of lake birds such as the pelicans, Egyptian geese, storks, quelea, flamingos and cormorants.

You may also find the usual wildlife species here complemented by the rare animals such as the lord of the forest- Sykes monkey and the Olive baboon.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

All You Need To Know About African Safari Hunting

2007-12-12T21:54:00.001-08:00

You probably have at least one activity that sends chills of excitement up your spine. It could be that you?re a big fan of sports, or that you really love the thrill of skydiving or bungee jumping. What about base jumping? That?s for real risk takers. Or there?s always race car driving at nearly triple the average speed limit. Regardless of what excites you, you probably love it for the sheer joy and thrill of doing something that gets your heart pumping and makes you feel alive. One activity you may not have thought of that certainly fits into the adrenaline rush category is African safari hunting. If you haven?t tried it and love adventure, this is the activity for you.

Do you know much about this amazing sporting activity or do you only know what you?ve seen on TV and movies? Most likely, if all you know is what you?ve seen in the TV and film media, you aren?t getting an accurate picture of what this fascinating sport is all about. It?s fun and you?ll see things you?ve never seen in the wild before. It?s not a cheap sport to engage in but, if you can save money for the thrill of doing it, it?s definitely worth the effort.

Some picture African safari hunting as bouncing around in the back of an old jeep driven by an African native, with everyone carrying high-powered rifles. This isn?t entirely the way it goes, but you get the idea. Safari goers can see everything from elephants and tigers to gazelles and rhinoceroses. These amazing animals aren?t often found in captivity and never found in, say, your own back yard. Some zoos may have them but it?s just not the same as seeing them in their native habitats.

African safari hunting isn?t much about killing animals these days. A lot of animals are protected, so you?re more likely to be carrying camera gear instead of a rifle, but the whole thing is still extremely exciting. Some safaris go out at night, in the pitch darkness, to catch nocturnal animals, like lions, going about their creature-like nightly habits. You can go in small groups in jeeps or in larger groups of like-minded safari buffs. Some safaris have packages where you can sleep in tent villages so you won?t need to go far to see those amazing animals you?ve been dying to get a close-up on. Your guides are usually well trained in spotting for animals and know the best watering holes and other places to track down the kinds of animals you?re looking for.

Instead of heading off to Africa to find a local guide in the middle of nowhere, just sit in front of your computer to get all you need to know about taking in an African safari. The Internet offers many websites where you can sign up for what could easily become the biggest adventure of your lifetime.

Read more from Joe Goertz at: myrecreation-magazine.com

Kenya Camping Safaris: Biribiriet, the haven for camping & nature addicts

2007-12-09T21:35:00.000-08:00

The valley opens below. Cliffs and high valleys stand in the midst of a sky pregnant with moisture. The rains are about to come. We stop at the Kerio Tingwa Ecotourism camping site for a stretch and to admire the beautiful landscape. We are on our way to Eldoret via the Eldama Ravine road and then to Chepkiit waterfall.

A map on the sign board points to the interesting features in the view. We can see Tongwoto caves, Tingwa hills at 2,700 meters and somewhere below are the Kabilet waterfalls and Kerio River. At the next viewpoint, we can see the white rug on the terrain of the Fluorspar mines.

It?s nearly midnight and we are camping just off the turning from Biribiriet near Eldoret on the Eldoret-Kapsabet road .The night air is cold but stunningly revitalizing. This is the ultimate forest camping experience. The gurgle of the stream running at the bottom of the field, is inviting. The moon, hidden in the clouds, send a little light in the terrestrial grounds but our eyes have become accustomed to the darkness and we are no longer daunted by it. Instead, warmed by the camping fire, we are suddenly animated when somebody suggests a midnight walk with Beryl to the rivers edge in search of frogs! This may be my proverbial chance to kiss the frog and end up with prince charming, so I join in.

The trouble with frogs is that you get to see them more at night and so much of Beryl?s field work is stalking the wilds in the dark armed with torch and plastic bags to catch the jumping jacks.

We tread the grass softly so as not to frighten the amphibians. Ringed by the glow of the torch light, a tiny reed frog tenderly perches on a thin grass. It?s quite a piece of art, this delicate scene.? That?s a reed frog,? Beryl says as our torches beam on many more in the shallow edges of Kipkeren River which thunders over the nearby Chepkiit waterfalls and onwards to Kingwal swamp. Many of the tiny water frogs are breeding and their throat sacs are ballooned enormously to call out female mates. It?s quite a busy little scene by the banks of the river. In contrast, the bigger grass frogs look quite monstrous and scary.

?Frogs are a good indicator of a clean environment ?says Beryl.? Any disturbance of the water quality effects their populations. ?There is no long term national data on the amphibians to compare the state of the environment or the diversity of frogs. Beryl is one of the few young Kenyan?s studying frogs.

It?s amazing. In the light of the following morning, where the scene was busy the night before, there is not a single frog to be seen. I take a leisurely stroll to a secluded water pool surrounded by massive rocks for a morning bath. The water is cool, the early morning clean and pure and the sky is lit with diverse colurs. The Ross?Turaco with its bright scarlet under wing has everybody taken ?under its wing ?it?s a bird of the old forests and quite rare to many birders.

This place is a find for camping nature lover groups. We are camping in this beautiful place surrounded by trees and open glades sandwiched between a picturesque Nandi homestead and the river overlooking a stone buff, all thanks to Mary, who has been researching in the vicinity for six years. ?Everybody keeps running to coast for their holidays. They should come here for a once in a life time camping experience,? she says vehemently. ?You won?t believe the number of stunning places like these.?

We lumbered early out of our camping gear and after the private bath in the rock pool and a leisurely breakfast, Mary gets us up on our feet again. This time, it?s a walk to the Chepkiit waterfall. There is so much to see walking through the glades of grass and forest, its like being in a wonderland.

The turacos awe us time and time again. The harrier hawk, glides to perch on a rock while the tiny leaf-loves and green doves fly about. Black and white casqued hornbills send noisy trumpets in flight while the graceful crowned cranes spread their feathers in elegant flight. There is life everywhere .Even on the rocks ?I wonder what these are? ?Mary asks as she kneels to gently touch the white straw-like threads weaving a pattern on the rocks. I have no idea either. Silk threads touch our bare faces as we walk the jungle part to the waterfall. Its sound reaches us faintly and we step over a border to see this most amazing scene of giant rocks and water and through the wide split in the gorge, a forest stretching into the horizon.

?This is Chepkiit waterfall,? announces Mary proudly. Everybody is bowled over and with a new lease to life; we explore the vistas, moving from rock to rock as the water crashes down. This water will flow on Yala swamp and finally into Lake Victoria.

?The Nandi area is very rich in bio-diversity,? says Mary.? There are lots of places like these.? What we need is to manage these places through researches that they are sufficiently protected.?

We visit the nearby homestead; Janet is busy with the usual house hold chores. The sheep and goats have been let out, the cows have had there morning drink at the river having to walk around the tents, and the cooking is going on. Inside the kitchen, the hand-made stove is ablaze with the firewood, little escaping from the sides so as to make the most efficient use of the precious fuel. Above are the calabashes, adding a dash of deco in the earth walled kitchen. The ?botet? or calabashes are used to store ?mursik? the traditional sour milk of the Nandi. I buy a couple, not to store milk but as a small token of the place.

For more information on the area, you can email; Robert

To explore more of the outdoors and discover all that?s wild, visit a local operator for more information on camping tours. You get to explore places that are off-the-beaten track with people who make every trip an unforgettable forest camping event.
Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant in Kenya and has planned business and vacation safaris for over 10,000 tourists in the East African region. He is a tour operation- major and involved in National tourism policy development in Kenya.

For more information please visit:
http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/
http://www.eastafricasafari.blogspot.com

Experience Life At Zambia Wilderness Safari

2007-12-07T21:44:00.001-08:00

As far as African safaris go, Zambia is the one that keeps its secret for many years and still keeps some though it is already beginning to take its crown for African safaris top destinations.

Zambia wilderness safari is absolutely an unknown realm when compared with more traditional national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and game reserves. But this still does not negate the fact that at some rate, the wilderness safaris that Zambia posses can be rated as top caliber and may even equal the qualities of other more visited hot African safari picks.

To save you from scouring over magazines, books and online, we have already collected information on some of the premium wilderness safaris, game reserves and national parks in the country. Please read on?

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
In spite of its difficult-to-pronounce name, Mosi-oa-Tunya still has something exceptional to scream for, the mighty Victoria Falls. This sight is probably the reason why the park is named as such, which if literally translated we may arrive at the meaning of "the smoke that thunders".

And the name really says the truth. It thunders roughly that the sound along is enough to make you stand awestruck and if you get nearer, you might feel the violent rushing of water.

The park also harbors some of the remaining rhinos that luckily escaped extinction. And if wilderness becomes favorable to you, you may also catch some glimpses of the baboon, impala, giraffe, eland and sables.

Lochinvar National Park
The bird paradise of Zambia. The credit of being a bird's paradise is given to Lochinvar since some 400 plus species of birds live in here. The big games though are scarce which is only limited to some herds of buffalo, hippos, spotted hyena, leopard, zebras and wildebeests.

Kafue National Park
The largest of all wilderness parks in Zambia, Kafue nurses the densest population of wildlife in all Zambia. Thousands of red lechwe, endless hoard of antelopes, sable, waterbuck, puka, roan, oribi, hartebeest, and vast number of predators to name a few. In fact, the only animal that you wont see in her are the zebras.

South and North Luangwa National Park
How would one describe Luangwa Park? It is simply the greatest wildlife sanctuary in the world since it harbors a biodiversity that is second to none with a touch of isolation and unadulterated wilderness, which makes it almost without compare. Being unspoilt by travelers except only for the locals and some fortunate foreign travelers, this park is truly a sight for creation in the making.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

A Luxury Safari Story

2007-12-06T21:57:00.001-08:00

It's hard to believe, as the small plane touches down at Sabi Sabi's airstrip, that we are just an easy hour's flight from Johannesburg. It's another world here - quiet, undisturbed, unhurried.

Elliot, who will be our guide for the duration of our trip, meets us off the plane. His ready smile, incredible bush knowledge and quiet confidence will be a hallmark of our visit; one of the things that make us long to go back. After a quick refreshment and cooling lemon towels we are ready to leave for our lodge.

A brief orientation brings us back down to earth. We are in the heart of the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, home to Africa's big game, Elliot explains, and there are no fences between our reserve, the Kruger National Park and Mozambique. Big game? No fences? Open vehicles? The bush is deceptively quiet for a city dweller, concealing hundreds of creatures big and small. One of the other guides tells us that just the day before a pride of lions had brought down a zebra right next to the landing strip. Our safari has begun.

A luxurious African Safari Experience
Our visit to Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve came with the choice of four lodges: Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, Selati Camp and Earth Lodge. We opted to spend two nights at the redesigned Bush Lodge and then two at Earth Lodge, which is a popular option available to visitors. Having been told that Bush Lodge had recently undergone a total redesign and remodelling project, I was expecting to see a new-looking lodge. However, on arrival, it was difficult to imagine that Bush Lodge hadn't been there for years, so warm and inviting is the whole atmosphere - not to mention the staff. The lodge entrance manages to be incredibly luxurious while conveying the feeling that you are visiting a close friend's home. Sabi Sabi operations director, Rod Wyndham, who together with wife Lauren run Bush Lodge, explained that the philosophy behind Bush Lodge's redesign centred around a providing a haven in the bush while reflecting the many African influences behind the design. Everywhere there are artefacts from all over the continent - a mix of colonial and ethnic - brought together by rich fabrics and textures and a design that looks out across the bush over a waterhole. After a brief introduction from Rod we were shown to our beautiful suite and invited to return for late afternoon tea followed by an evening safari. For those who have never experienced an African game lodge, it difficult to convey the luxury that exists in such close proximity to totally unspoilt wildlife. We were so taken with our suite we considered missing the evening drive, but eventually decided to give it a go - a very good decision in the end.

Afternoon tea is taken on one of two huge decks overlooking a waterhole and furnished with huge, comfortable chairs ideal for relaxing and surveying the bushveld. Soon we were heading out again - this time on evening safari with Elliot and Phios. We hadn't driven very far when we spotted two giraffes feeding in a thicket. Given their proximity to our lodge I was very grateful they weren't lions, but didn't admit this to the party we were with - all seasoned bush goers. As our drive progressed, the heat abated, the light softened and the shadows lengthened. We saw a herd of elephants, breathtakingly close; kudu, zebra, hippo and the shy nyala before Elliot's radio announced a sighting close by of 'dogs', which caused instant excitement on our Land Rover. Suddenly it dawned on me - we were about to experience what very few people ever do - African wild dogs, one of the continent's endangered and seldom seen species. En route to the sighting, Elliot explained that while wild dogs are often on Sabi Sabi property, there hadn't been a sighting for a couple of months. He reminded us to remain seated and quiet and we set off. About five minutes away we slowed down and approached the area where Sven, another guide had spotted the dog family - five adults comprising three female and two males. I was struck by how small they are, especially when Elliot explained that they are one of the most successful hunting animals in Africa with 90% success rate. They hunt in packs, efficiently and without fuss. The family seemed to be on the move and soon we were following them. They were on a trail, every so often stopping to survey their surroundings through sight, hearing and smell.

Years of habituation have made the animals at Sabi Sabi almost oblivious of the safari vehicles and the family carried on as if we were not just a few metres away. It was awesome to see these animals behaving normally in their natural habitat. Moving off road to keep with the sighting, the dogs picked up their pace on the trail of some prey until we lost them in a thicket of thorn trees. After trying unsuccessfully to locate them further on - they had disappeared as quickly and quietly as they had appeared - Elliot suggested we stop for sundowners. While we encountered the most incredible wildlife during our stay, including lions hunting, two different leopards, hippo, buffalo and even a snake, the wild dog sighting was the highlight of our game viewing. Sundowners are served in the open bush, a refreshing break before resuming the safari in darkness. Returning to Bush Lodge we forewent the chance to freshen up for dinner in favour of adjourning to the welcoming bar to swap stories with other guests and compare notes on our experiences.

A four-course boma dinner, complete with fresh venison and an array of other dishes, was accompanied by a fine wine from an impressive collection. An early night was called for as morning wake up call was just a few hours away.

Our days at Bush Lodge followed in the same gentle rhythm, two daily safaris, delicious food and wonderful staff, mainly from the local Shangaan communities of Huntingdon, Justicia and Lilydale.

On our third day we transferred to Earth Lodge. The arrival is totally unexpected as the lodge is all but invisible from a distance, being sculpted into the earth and having been recreated to blend seamlessly with the surrounding bush. It was the first lodge of its genre to break with the colonial tradition and the effect is breathtaking. It has clean lines that look out over unspoiled bush, an unadorned cement and pigment finish and uses influences from nature in its every aspect: buck horns as legs for chairs, uprooted trees carved into elaborate furniture pieces, natural skylights, anthill roofs for the suites. Our suite is the most luxurious we have ever stayed in. Dominated by a huge carved wooden bed, it opens up to a private splash pool and the bush. An enormous bathroom with a stone bath has uninterrupted views of the bushveld, and there are indoor and outdoor showers. I indulged in an outdoor shower for the first time although they are also a feature at Bush Lodge. The main lodge has an indoor / outdoor dining area, reading lounge, Zen garden, Camelot spa and a 6000-bottle subterranean wine cellar where we enjoyed unique Earth Lodge cuisine for our last dinner at the reserve.

All too soon the visit was over and we were driving to the airstrip where we had arrived. En route, we saw and heard an African fish eagle, surely one of the most evocative sounds in the wild - and a fitting end to a wonderful experience.

This travel article was written by a guest at "Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve in South Africa.

African Safari - Back to Basics and Reflections on the Creation

2007-12-05T21:46:00.001-08:00

The Swahili word ?safari? originally meant "journey" which is further correlated to ?hunting for survival? and ?exploration of lands?.

The safari is typically traveled by foot amidst the vast lands. This is of course deemed to be the best way of experiencing the circle of life in the safari since you can reach to the core of the natives and their unique cultures.

Walking trails are continuously maintained so that the explorers are guided along their courses better. However, visitors can always widen their safari options with many forms of travel available with each safari tour package. Other modes of transportation include hot air ballooning, fly-in safaris, driving safaris, canoeing safaris, horseback riding safaris, and elephant back riding safaris.

These do not only add ease on travel but may also allow access to the deeper domains (and often uncharted places) which contribute more thrills while on tour.

As for the categories, African safaris are normally offered in three basic types: permanent tented safaris, lodge safaris, and mobile safaris. There are also a couple of other safari choices customized depending on the traveler?s needs. One good example is the honeymoon safari for newly-wed couples.

One complete safari tour that will take you from the Eastern region to the Southern parts lasts around 10 to 21 days. If you are planning to journey this long, it would be best if you avail from a local tour operator or a specialist so you are sure that you what you get is a complete safari adventure.

It is helpful if you have the knowledge of some of the practices, culture and etiquette to adopt well with the localities. As for your choice of safari package, consider the factors such as meals, accommodation, transportation, driver and guide service, excursions, itineraries and supplemental packages.

There are hundreds of conservation parks and wildlife sanctuaries that display the continuous interplay of the wild in its natural setting, marvelous places untouched by technology, and vast array of flora and fauna.

Life in the safari is more serene and offers more grounds for realizing how beautiful creation is. And all these are topped with the unique (and sometimes peculiar) cultures of different African tribes that mark the richness of their history.

African safari seems to remind us how the sixth day of creation looks like. They are the living remembrances of how the Creator intended things to be- the perfection, the diversity, the coexistence between man and his nature, and the life that surrounds everything.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy and may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more info on Safari, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Tanzania Safari: The Seat Of Marvel

2007-12-04T22:18:00.001-08:00

The best things in nature are those that were preserved since God created Earth. Tanzania, being one of the places, which for many years have been attempting to preserve its natural beauty, asserts the wonders that may seem to have come directly from the Creator's hands.

Its beauty is unrivalled, its resources vast. Tanzania is simply a place of great marvel. Its wildlife sanctuaries are fresh and unspoilt. Wildlife roam in its area as it was intended after the creation. They are free; they flourish at their own rate at their own fashion.

It is no wonder why Tanzania safari is placed among the world's finest in game viewing.

Aside from the games, Tanzania safari is also well known for its enormous gatherings of wildlife habitats and ecosystems. The Northern Circuit is the most popular entry route towards Tanzania safari which covers the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, places that appeal most to nature and wildlife lovers. Nonetheless, sanctuaries like Tarangire, Arusha and the Lake Manyara are no less dazzling than the two. All these combined makes Tanzania Safari an unimaginable haven for the congregation of animals.

On top of the wonders are the world-known big five, which covers buffalo, elephant, rhino, lion and leopard. Complemented by endless array of plain animals such as the zebra, Thompson gazelle, eland, wildebeest, oryx and others that are included in the same genre. Add to the count the merciless predators that help balance nature like the cheetah, vultures, jackal, wild dog and hyena. Not only does Northern Circuit collects its fame from these animals, it is also recognized for its over 500 bird species which turns it into an ornithologist's paradise.

As we have earlier noted, the Arusha town is the starting point for northern adventure. It sits nearest to Mount Meru and only distant enough so travelers will get to see the mighty and awesome Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain found in all Africa.

Arusha, aside from the wild animals that it nurses, is also a refuge for rich tapestry of ecosystems that thrive on grassland, heath, montane forest, alpine desert and soda and fresh water lakes.

All these aside, Tanzania is made more distinguished by the largest caldera there is in the world- the Ngorongoro Crater. A natural world wonder itself, Ngorongoro Crater gives refuge to some 30,000 wild animals.

Truly, the Tanzanian safaris will let you witness how nature works, how the dance of life interplay with the death and survival of animals that it constitutes and how the balance of nature is maintained.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Kenya Rhino Walking Safaris: Through Glades, Caves and Rhino Country

2007-12-03T21:43:00.001-08:00

There are hundreds of cones and lava flows on the exploded hills of the 100-kilometre range that is the Chyulu hills. The most recent Shetani and Chaimu, happened in the mid 1900s drawing black volcano solidified lava paths in Tsavo west. I am quite determined to find the only point in the hills which has water. It?s a slow drip that takes five minute to fill a small mug. We begin our ascent to the hills which rise to 7,178 feet in search of the water point.

It?s magical country, all green glades and flowers in bloom. We catch site of a reddish antelope in the distance which we think is the rare Chandler?s bush buck. The car winds its way slowly through the grass-filled roads and volcanic ridges and the higher we get the more impressive the vast open the lands below.

Sitting on the high glades next to the sky feels like being in heaven. We ignore the massive steel booster that stands like an intruder on a high peak. The ant-eating, earth-dwelling aardvark holes are clean and showing they are in residence. It would be easy to trip over them save for the clearing by the holes.

A team of researchers passed by in search of a rare two-honed chameleon believed to be found here and in few other forests groves. In the three days of criss-crossing the park, these are the only people we meet-that?s exclusion.

Adan, the ranger, guides us through the maze of horse-shoe shaped cones to where he thinks the water point is. We have to climb the hill to reach the top. The late afternoon sun is thankfully cool as we walk uphill past the gaze of hartebeest that stares at us and then canters further uphill. The black lava eroded path is damp and my spirit is elevated. We must be getting close to the water point.

Closing in on the brow of the hills, look up to see the most magnificent view of Mount Kilimanjaro. Kibo?s high peak floats above a thin layer of clouds while Mawenzi is cushioned in a fluff of clouds.

Wait here?, says Onyango. ?I was here a year ago and saw the water coming out of there,? he says pointing to a grove of tall trees. He walks down and reappears after a few minutes.? Its not there he announces looking a little lost. With the sun first making its way down, it?s clear we have to live this water hunting for another time.

The Chyulus are very delicate and little explored. Peter Bally,a botanist at the museum, led an expedition up there in 1938. He was married to the legendary Joy Adamson and celebrating their honeymoon and, I might add, a great place to do just that. It was here that Bally discovered his wife extraordinary painting skills. As the story goes Joy painted a plant and, frustrated in the outcome, tore it into pieces and threw it in the bin. Bally found the pieces and taped them together, giving Joy the impetus to paint the plants which still grace the walls of the museum.

?The Chyulus are volcanic rubble so are very porous. And because they are very young in terms of geological time scale, they don?t really have a great diversity of plant species, ?Quetin Luke, a botanist at the National Museums of Kenya, explained to me on my first visit there a few years ago.

With no water and volcanic ash for a ground base, the plant life that has evolved is very specialized.

Robert is a tour consultant in Kenya and has planned business and vacation safaris for over 10,000 tourists in the East African region.

For more information please visit:
http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/
http://www.landmarksafaris.com

African Safari Preparedness

2007-12-02T21:57:00.001-08:00

An African safari is a tour through the African jungle, desert's and forests giving you an experience of wild African grounds. If you plan to go for the first time on an African safari, you should be prepared for all kinds of upheavals that could make things rough for you during your trip. Therefore, it is very important to prepare yourself.

You will need information about the country that you plan to go for a safari. Information along with tradition and security measures should be planned. You should also scan your passport and keep a photocopy with you, just incase you lose it. There is a network of travel agents and guides who specialize in African safaris and offer expert advise.

Preparing for a safari is not always easy, especially for first timers. First, you must take lots of drinking water and food for your trip. Clean bottled water should always be available to avoid being dehydrated by the hot sun. To provide electricity in your camp, batteries and invertors that run on car batteries should be carried along. It is important to wear the right clothing on a safari. You must always carry, cotton full ?sleeved shirts, a brimmed hat and comfortable shoes. Vaccinations against diseases should be a part of safari preparation. Anti-malarial drugs should be carried along. All medicines taken should be original and sealed. Most importantly, your safari should include people who share common interests with you about the safari. Meaning if you want a wild life photographic experience, then the people you go with should be photography buffs as well.

By preparing in the right way for the right safari, one can experience the true joy of a perfect safari.

African Safari provides detailed information on African Safari, African Lion Safari, African Safari Vacations, Best African Safaris and more. African Safari is affiliated with Botswana Culture.

South African Safaris

2007-11-30T21:29:00.001-08:00

South Africa safaris include everything from photographic hunting to expeditions. The digital photographic safaris are a combination of personal instruction along with luxury accommodations. This type of safari is ideal for those who want to combine digital photography with the experience of African wildlife. South African safaris can range from three-days to a nine-day.

The South African safari will include visits to habitats with many species of birds, mammals, major rivers and vast landscapes ranging from dense forest to the open dry savannah region. The accommodations are bungalows with roofs, generally made of grass. Although accommodations keep on changing due to the movement of wildlife and availability, there is always a place to stay. Moreover, because of a variety of trees and vegetation available to animals living in the nearby forest, an individual on a South African safari can enjoy the live experience of gaming activities. The vehicles that carry you through the safari depart early morning and bring you back two to three hours before sunset. During the afternoons, you can enjoy sitting by a river or simply getting a sun tan You can also experience night drives and take mid afternoon bush walks to get a closer look at animal trails, insects and reptiles.

Of course the South African safari would not be incomplete without a guide. These guides are registered with SATGOUR (south Africa tourism industry) and FGASA (Field guide association of south Africa). Moreover, they are available with any South African tour and safari operator. One, more important feature, these guides can speak in the language requested a no extra cost.

African Safari provides detailed information on African Safari, African Lion Safari, African Safari Vacations, Best African Safaris and more. African Safari is affiliated with Botswana Culture.

3 Unforgettable African Safaris

2007-11-30T03:22:00.000-08:00

Africa is a continent of contrasts. From the sandy Sahara desert to tropical rainforests and vast open plains, Africa something to suit everyone any time of the year.

A safari in Africa is perhaps one of the most alluring holiday options available for tourists around the world. A safari gives visitors a unique opportunity to experience all the magic that this beautiful continent has to offer.

Of course, with options come choices. If you're looking for an African safari, where do you start? How do you know what's best for you? What are the must see sights of Africa?

3 Unforgettable African Safari experiences

1). Kenya - Wildebeest Migration

The Wildebeest Migration is one of Africa's most eagerly anticipated events. This dramatic show takes place within Kenya and Tanzania and is definitely one of the greatest wildlife stories on the planet.

Across the vast open plains of the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, an astonishing number of wildebeest and zebra voyage in search of new pastures. This migration with the change of season is an important part of the living cycle, which has a massive effect on their entire bionetwork as it sets off a chain reaction across multiple tiers of the ecosystem. It is a rather unpredictable event, and there is considerable variation in timing from year to year. Between June and August is often the best time to see this somewhat spontaneous natural wonder... the huge herds of wildebeest massing near the banks of the Grumeti River, in preparation of the momentous crossing.

Where to witness the spectacle

Sarova Mara Camp
Located outside Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve, the Sarova Mara camp is set on an elevation surrounded by two streams. Facilities include a dining area, a swimming pool and curio shop. The camp, consisting of 75 tents, has 24-hour electricity and a shower with hot and cold running water.

Governors' Camp
Governors Camp is situated in the northern Masai Mara and offers a perfect setting in which to witness the epic migration. The entire safari camp is under canvas and the 38 tents are in the classic safari style.

2). A Big Five Safari in Africa

The big five safari is perhaps the quintessential safari experience. The ?Big Five? are the elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo and these magnificent beasts exude a grand presence that very quickly makes you realise just why they are so special. It is a rare experience to see all of these animals in one place, but in a select few places in Africa, the amazing diversity of the bushveld makes it a real possibility. To see all of the big five on safari, with the animals in their natural habitat, is an inspirational experience that will stay with you forever.

Where to see the big five:

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve South Africa
Sabi Sabi Game Lodges are situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. It represents the ultimate in luxury safaris, offering an experience to remember with its amazing combination of five star luxury and wildest Africa.

The reserve is blessed with phenomenal biodiversity and provides and excellent chance of close encounters with the 'Big 5' as well as other interesting creatures like the wild dog and cheetah.

3). Fishing Safari - Hooking the biggest fish of your life

Fishing in Africa is remarkable. Whether you're a fresh water enthusiast or after that elusive trophy gamefish; whether you're a fly-fishing fanatic or a spinning specialist, Africa is home to the type of fish you love to catch.

When it comes to fishing, any serious fisherman knows that the fight factor is a huge one, and the world's most powerful freshwater fighter, the tigerfish, is only one of the numerous African fish which will test your skill and equipment. The only thing as important as the fight, is the size.

Does size matter? To a fisherman you better believe it does! The Nile Perch is one of the world's largest freshwater fish. Native to the Lake Chad, Congo, Nile, Senegal, Volta, Lake Turkana and other river basins, it reaches a maximum length of nearly two metres and can weigh as much as 200 kg - this is one seriously big fish!

A fishing safari in Africa is a fisherman's dream come true and the kind of African safari experience that you'll remember forever.

Where to fish

Lake Nasser
This is a place where many the first time visitor catches the biggest fish they've ever caught. It promises an angling adventure they will never forget. Lake Nasser is the greatest venue in the world for wild Nile perch, while your line is in the water you never know if the next fish is going to be an average sized fish or a 200lb monster.

Lake Victoria Uganda
This is another hotspot for Nile Perch fishing. The nearby Ssese Islands, a small cluster of over 80 islands off Entebbe, Uganda, are a largely uninhabited paradise. They are covered in thick, tropical forests and fish of over 80 kg have been caught. The main methods of fishing in the lake are; trolling with lures, fly fishing, and live bait. Apart from the Nile perch, local tilapia and large catfish are often caught.

These three magical experiences, while certainly not the only magic that Africa has to offer, are without doubt some of the most memorable you're likely to find anywhere in the world. Witnessing the age-old migratory trek of huge herds of Wildebeest, seeing the majesty of the Big Five up close or hooking the 200lb Nile Perch you've always dreamed of - these are the memories that stay with you for a lifetime.
Sabi Sabi, set in the Sabi Sands game reserve, is a luxury safari lodge with a focus on ultimate comfort. Sabi Sabi will treat you to the most luxurious and adventurous experience imaginable and provide a safari experience second to none. The magnificent diversity of wildlife and habitat makes it one of the world's best venues for Big Five safari.

Lions, Tigers And Other Safari Theme Ideas

2007-11-28T21:20:00.001-08:00

A safari theme is something that can work for any age. From a young kid party to an adult style party Invites can be something fun; you might be able to find pre made cards of every animal. If you have enough people, you could send a different animal card to each person. If you add in a small note, asking the guests to dress up like the invite animal. This might work better for a young kid?s party. Maybe the older guests can dress up in the safari gear and go from there. You might even want to see if you can find some clothing at your local thrift store you can pick up, that way you can give some out when your guest come to your party.

Now for decoration ideas for your safari theme, you can start with what kind of animals that are in the safari. If you are crafty and can't find any animal printed tablecloths you can go out to any fabric stores and find some fabric, from zebra, leopard, tiger stripped all you need to do after that is to hem the edges. You can buy a few stuff animals to decorate the tabletops. Once you have tabletops done you can move on to decorations.

For a safari theme you can find some ivy at your local craft store and hang that around the room, maybe even some large palm leafs. If you want to be a little more crafty try making your own large trees out of large sheets of paper and placing them around.

If you wander around any local store you might find anything that can work for your safari theme. Maybe you can find some leave bowls for punch and some leaf shaped plates. From there, let your imagination go. Make sure you plan for a great, fun party.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette, and living a healthy life while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has lots of party ideas with hundreds of free coloring sheets, printable games, and free birthday party activities. Over 100 adorable Party Themes to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties is at the Party Theme Shop. Party themes include cartoon characters, sports, movie, TV shows, luau, western, holidays, and unique crazy fun theme ideas.

A Jungle Safari Party Will Drive Kids Wild

2007-11-25T22:13:00.001-08:00

Safaris are a unique look at wildlife and animals in their natural habitat and often called the adventure of a life time. Because animals are loved by children and they are so easy to find everywhere, a Jungle Animal Safari is a terrific party idea. Invitations can be taped to a box of animal crackers. Decorations can include camouflage netting (which could form a sort of tent or cave for a play area), stuffed animals, and anything with an animal print can add to the festivities. Snakes and vines can be draped in doorways or from ceilings and a CD of animal sounds or jungle drums can be used to add ambience.

Safari Games to be played might include:

Wild Animal Charades Game: Names of various wild animals are written on pieces of papers and put in a bowl (or a safari hat) so that no one can see the writing on them. Then one guest at a time pulls a slip out and has to act out the animal in hopes that the other guests can guess what animal is being acted. The player that guesses it correctly, gets to draw the next slip.

A Safari Expedition Party Hunt: A safari scavenger hunt can be set up, or if there are enough types of animals (either hard plastic or stuffed) a search that requires finding the animal that made the prints can be set up so that teams of guests have to identify the animal that made certain paw and hoof prints. This can be made by creating ?Giraffe Crossing? signs and noting the hoof prints on it, or something more subtle. The ultimate goal is for the kids to locate and identify the matching prints.

Animorphing: Guests pick out the names of two different animals from the hat/bowl. They are then required to draw a picture of what animal would be created if the two animals they drew were to be combined For example, if a tiger and a chimpanzee were the names drawn out by the guest, he would draw something that was part chimpanzee and part tiger and it may be called a chimpiger. Other guests will then try to guess what 2 animals were made to create the new animal.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies http://www.partysupplieshut.com, using proper etiquette, and living a healthy life while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has lots of party ideas with hundreds of free coloring sheets, printable games, and free birthday party activities. Over 100 adorable Party Themes (PartyThemeShop.com) to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties is at the Party Theme Shop. Party themes include cartoon characters, sports, movie, TV shows, luau, western, holidays, and unique crazy fun theme ideas.

Kenya tour and safaris: the ultimate experience

2007-11-23T22:56:00.001-08:00

Your Kenyan Safari

The Kenyan holiday experience is touted to be the most comprehensive in Africa. It is the only country that you will experience 3 district climatic conditions namely, Coastal Humid, cool highland and dry desert. The attractions here also range from the beaches 1) white sands, 2) wildlife, 3) the scenery of the great Rift Valley, 4) the green plantations of the highlands, 5) the cradle of mankind archeological sites, 6) No distinct cultural ethical endowments show-copped markets among others.

a) Wildlife Safaris Kenya has managed to maintain its wildlife in natural areas in National Parks and Reserves. The big five wildlife including Rhino, Lion, Leopard, Elephant and Buffalo is all found in these parks Including the small bovid. Among Kenyans most parks include the indomitable - Massai Mara - Nakuru National Park - Aberdares National Park - Tsavo National Park (11,000 kms equal size of Israel) - Samburu - Amboseli National Reserve - Among other 57 Parks and Reserves Nairobi National Park is the only park located within a capital city in the world. Lions, Zebras, gnus, Leopards, Rhino, Buffalo are 5minutes from the CBD.

Wildebeest Migration

The single most popular wildlife spectre in Kenya is the annual wildebeest migration to and back from Serengeti into the Maasai Mara. The wildebeest migration is such a phenomenon it involves movement of over 10 million animals crossing plains and rivers. The huge migration is such that the satellites in space picks it up as a fluid mass of black trail. The Maasai Mara lodges are usually overbooked and full in the migration months of June-Nov.

Lion and Oryx

Some years back a story extra ordinaire caught the attention of international media. This was the story of an old lioness called 'Namunyak' in Samburu National Reserve. The lioness had formed a bizarre habit of adopting 4 young Oryx for days on end. The lioness was actually protective of its adoptee(s) that she couldn't go to hunt for fear of her being killed by the males of her pride. This made her loose a lot of weight but still held on strong. On four different occasions the lioness adopted an Oryx calve after the other despite being frustrated by the male lions and disposition of others by the rangers. Namugaki is still out there in the wild while the 4th adoptee was rescued by the Kenya Wildlife Rangers can now bee seen mature at the Nairobi orphanage.

Mzee the Tortoise & Owen the Hippo

Haller Park is the former world reclaimed Bamburi Nature Trail at the coast. Reclaimed from cement Quarries of Bamburi Cement Factory the park has been fully rehabilitated with conserving trees and stocked as a zoo with giraffes, hippo gazelles Oryx, Eland, fish, snakes, etc.

A very recent and ongoing development at Haller Park has been the extra ordinary friendship between 100+ old tortoise and a young 5+ hippo. While mzee the Tortoise has seen it all unfold at Bamburi, Owen the baby hippo was orphaned after the mother died elsewhere. Now, the story is said that Own started to spend time with Mzee (Old man) upon arrival at the Park. This bond has now developed such that the two, feed, sleep and walk together. They are inseparable and Owen is especially aggressive to any intruders.

Other stories always emerge of unique unions between different wildlife species including one between a lone buffalo and a murderous black Rhino in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. It all goes to show how free ranging animals take their entitled liberties.

Wildlife viewing in the Mara is done in 8 seater Mini vans and land cruiser trucks. The Mara is so beaming with wildlife that you can almost touch an elephant feeding. 1 - years one metre off the road. And that is from right next to the gate. Balloon safaris are the most satisfying way to view the gazillions of wildlife and especially the big five balloon safaris are booked on demand from Nairobi.

ii. Beach Safaris

Nothing beats a coastal holiday like one experience in the Kenya White Sand Beaches. This is especially good for visitors in need of lazing in the tropical coast sure for a tan and swim. Other water sports available along the beaches include - Water/wind skiing - Surfing - Deep sea fishing - Scuba diving - Swimming with dolphins - Jet skiing - Coral garden snorkeling and - Glass bottomed boat rides into marine parks

The accommodation facilities along our beaches range from 4-5 star deluxe with top of the range international service standards. You can make your choice between beach cottages, lodges, hotel and eco-camps

iii) Cultural Safaris

Kenya has a diverse cultural background from its over 42 ethnic groups. The most spectacular is however the Maasai warrior tribe which lives among wildlife in the Mara Reserve. The Maasai have a specifically intriguing lifestyle as they co-exist side by side with very dangerous wildlife. Their Moran warrior culture prepares young initiates into the warrior (army) age set. These Morans emerge from their clustered life in braided, red ochre hair, clad in very colourful red kikoi (cotton fabric) tyre sand als and complete with a spear, they are a sight to behold.

The Swahili culture at the coast is also very unique including their architecture, dressing, food etc. Cultural safaris are also organized around mythical stories like the Samson-like Lwanda Magere, Warriors, the Nyamgondho man who turned into a tree stamp after chasing away his wife given from the Gods.

The Bomas of Kenya offers traditional dances and foods and is located in the city far 1 day excursions. There are also National Museums that have collected artifacts from traditional societies for display in Museums in most towns in Kenya.

iv) Adventure Safaris

And for that visitor full of energy, Kenya offers a variety of high energy, high adrenaline, dare devil activities for that memorable feeling. The snow-copped 5000m+ Mt Kenya is a challenge to may seasoned mountain climbers. There are several built-up resting camps as well as provided for climbing routes. Climbing gear and guides are lined at base camp for the 5-6 day climb.

Bungee jumping and white water rafting is done 50 km from Nairobi town at Sagana/ that is along the upstream of Tana River.

Biking is usually organized activity within wildlife areas from your lodge. Trekking game safaris are also done in community group ranches in the Maasai Mara area.

Other adventure safaris include the overlander camping, off the beaten truck trips. These camping safaris usually involved covering larger areas and gets more interior, takes longer days but is also the most rewarding.

Adventure safaris will usually include camping in mobile 1-2 man tent units. Catering is provided while transport is by overlanders and or trucks.

v) Sport Safaris Kenya is globally recognized for its world class, record breaking athletes. Our success in International athletic gains is attributed to high attitude training. World standard high altitude camps have now been started and caters for athletes looking to improve performance.

In addition there is now a national calendar of Marathons in Kenya that athletes can test their performance i.e Nairobi Marathon, Lewa Marathon among others. Lewa Marathon is especially unique as it takes place in the middle of a game community reserve. The runners are running in the middle of Lions, Buffalo, Zebra, giraffe etc. It is a world famous event that attracts international participation. Other sparking activities in Kenya popular with visitors include Deep Sea fishing, the Coastal Regarta,---

vi) Nature Safaris

Kenya enjoys a spectrum of scenic attractions test the appetite of any nature loving tourist. From the snow capped mountains in the tropics to the descent dunes to the North East of the Country.

The Natural tropical forests of Arabuko SoKoke is a must go for any nature tourist. The coastal forest has resident elephant regulations. Among the endemic species include the elephant shrew, and the little scoops owl. The community butterfly project is also a must see for visitors.

Kakamega forest is a remnant of equatorial forest running through to DR Congo. The forest canopy is so high and interlocked it creates a permanent dark under cover. Activities in many of Kenyans forests includes bird watching, forest walks, camping Biking etc.

The Great Rift Valley provides scenic beauty observed from the Eastern Escarpment. The Rift Valley floor is dotted with active volcanic activity in the form of geysers, hotsprings and smouldering mountains, fresh water, lakes and crater lakes. L. Bogoria is an exciting destination where one boils eggs off the steam of hotsprings, flamingoes are plentiful in these lakes including Elementaita, Nakuru and Bogoria . Preferred accommodation is exclusive camps and lodges.

vii) Charity & Mission Safaris

The philanthropy safari magnitude is growing exponentially due to the increasing North South pro-pour movement. Needy situations in Africa including Kenya are a result of HIV/AIDS, Education, poverty environment, Hunger etc. There exist very ideal projects with which charitable financial and human resources are channeled to Kenya including: - Destitute Homes - Conservation Organization - School teaching - Hospitals - Churches/mosques/temples

Participants in this kind of travel include

-Gap year students -volunteers -Missionaries -Internship programs etc

There are as such organizations and tour operators that handle the traveling, orientation, booking and other logistics of such groups. Others also understand placement of these human resources in needy institutions as volunteers, teachers, interns, missionaries etc.

Accommodation is mainly hostels, home stays & Budget hotels due to the lengthy stay and the fact that this group is more of workers than tourists.

viii)Historical Safaris

Kenya is credited as the cradle of mankind, from where the earliest remains of human bones were discovered by Dr Richard Leakey. Evidence of the earliest, man were discovered at Koobi Fora on the shores of L. Turkana, formerly L. Rudolf. Other areas that remains and tools of(adze) of the human ancestry have been found include Kaariandusi and Ololgesailie, archeological sites. All early ancestry artifacts are collected and displayed at National Museum at Nairobi. These archeological sites are also developed into tourist attractions.

There are also caves believed to have been shelter of the early man across the country. Rock paintings are evident in such areas as the

a)Mt Elgon Kitgum and Makingeny Caves b) Mfangano Island and in Malaba district.

The USAID has recently given aid to rehabilitate and preserve these caves. Other caves at Shimoni have been used as stockade for slaves in transit to major markets in Zanzibar for onward transmission to South America & Europe. Recent colonial war between the Mau Mau freedom fighters is also evident. Bombings of the Mau Mau that created lakes can be seen at Aberdare forest and Buffalo Springs Reserve.

Accommodation for historical tourists is arranged in towns closest to such sites.

Visiting Kenya for Safari

Tour operators have already pre-packaged safaris on Beach, Nature, Historical, Wildlife, Adventure Cultural, charity and Mission, Sport activities. You will need to select from a pre-arranged list of the sum.

Alternatively, some tour operators have facility to tailor a safari, whereby you fill in a form indicating your preferences from which the tour operator makes your itinerary with your endorsement. Accommodation in Kenya depends on your budget and you are able to choose from budget to 5 star deluxe.

On land transport also offers you options between 8-seater minibus, self driven cars or 4x4 and coaches.

I welcome you to Kenya for an experience worth its weight in gold.

Robert Muhoho

Robert is a tour consultant in Kenya and has planned business and vacation safaris for over 10,000 tourists in the East African region. He is a tour operation- major and involved in National tourism policy development in Kenya.

For more information please visit: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/ http://www.eastafricasafari.blogspot.com

Wonderful South African Safaris

2007-11-23T22:54:00.000-08:00

Oh the beautiful South Africa. Endowed with rich tapestry of culture, vast lands, unequalled safaris?South Africa is truly a place for one who wants to reconnect with nature.

South African safaris are home to wide spectrum of animal species including the celebrated group of five: the buffalo, rhino, lion, elephant and leopard.

They were not named so because they have gained great popularity but because they mainly offer the experience of witnessing the dance of life happening in sight of travelers. They are the hunters that give fright to their preys. Thus, excitement for their viewers.

Game viewing, as this activity is called, is typically done with walking safari. However, due to the increase in popularity of canoeing, horseback riding and camel safaris walking becomes only one of a tourist' option. It is designed specifically for the hardy souls though and for the physically fit.

A standard walking safari is composed of 8 to 12 persons aged 12 to 60. This lasts for 3 days and 2 nights. With other modes of game viewing however, one should be in company of a guide.

The flagship of all South African safaris is the Kruger National Park creation of Paul Kruger, the president of Transvaal Republic in 1898. His advanced vision sparked the idea of creating wildlife sanctuaries and preservation areas to let nature continue growing at her own rate.

With the Kruger National Park, South Africa is truly unrivalled in its immense resources. The big five aside, South African harbors some of animal world's most interesting games such as the wild dogs, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, warthog, an array of antelope species and jackals, hippos, and zebras. Kruger Park is also home for some 500 species of birds and 140 species of mammals.

With its 20, 000 sq. km land area of unspoilt land, Kruger offers visitors not only its animal resources but also its wide spectrum of plant species.

South Africa safaris are not only made famous by the Kruger National Park, they also placed their names in top African destination through the fame of The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park- one of the biggest wildlife conservation areas in the world.

It is not for the fainthearted though. This is the sight for the distinguished black-maned Kalahari lions along with other animal species like bat-eared foxes, blue wildebeest, gemsbok, and the likes.

While on South African safaris, never forget to take some images of wildlife with you. Capture them in photos if you can. Animals such as those that thrive in nature pass only once. It would be wise if you can have a token of remembrance from them.