African Safari And Beach Holiday News.

There are many reasons why a trip to Tanzania should be on your bucket list.  Here are six of the best.

The East African country of Tanzania is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Home to wildlife-filled game parks including the famous Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater with those iconic vast open plains, Tanzania is the stuff nature documentaries are made of. In addition to amazing wilderness areas, Tanzania also boasts Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, which is a listing on many an adventure traveller’s bucket list. Off the coast is the beautiful tropical island of Zanzibar, which lures visitors with its white-sand beaches, clear warm water full of fish and exotic culture – offering a relaxing beach break as a perfect complement to game viewing and mountain climbing.

Thinking about planning a trip to Tanzania? Here are our top five reasons to go on safari in Tanzania to give you a big shot of East African inspiration.

A little place called Zanzibar

After your wildlife safari or Kilimanjaro trek, there’s a good chance you’ll need some beach time. Zanzibar Island is not only a beach gem surrounded by warm Indian Ocean waters. It’s also a fascinating cultural melting pot. European, Asian and African traders have used it as a travel hub for centuries. There are thousands of nice beaches in the world, but the quirks of Zanzibar add the right amount of spice to this one.

Zanzibar is an archipelago of historic Indian Ocean islands, awash with atmosphere, intrigue, and idyllic beach experiences. Zanzibar has a wide range of accommodation choices and plenty to see, do and discover. It is the perfect place to relax after an exhilarating safari or climbing Kilimanjaro. It is also a glorious paradise for honeymooners or a romantic holiday getaway. As the site of Sultans’ palaces and renowned for its spice plantations, the little island republic of Zanzibar is a must-see for any visitor to Tanzania.

While Tanzania is amazing for big game safaris, it is also a popular beach safari destination, with the archipelago of Zanzibar, which is less than 60 kilometres off the coast from the mainland in the warm Indian Ocean. Two large islands, Unguja (normally referred to as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba, as well as several smaller islands make up the archipelago. On budget-friendly Zanzibar, there are plenty of gorgeous palm-fringed beaches on which to kick back and relax, amazing snorkelling spots on coral reefs, and sailing trips on traditional dhows.

Ngorogoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is another of the most pristine wildernesses on earth, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to being the world’s largest intact crater. On the crater floor, grassland blends into swamps, lakes, rivers, woodland and mountains – all a haven for wildlife, including the largest predator population in Africa. The Big Five even call this volcanic crater home, and it is one of the last wild refuges for the black rhino.

The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unflooded and unbroken crater in the world, the site of a massive once-active volcano. Three hundred square kilometres in area, the crater is home to some of the densest population of wildlife found anywhere on the planet, particularly lions and predators. On every game drive you do in this wildlife haven, you’re guaranteed to encounter loads of species of animals, from lions and elephant to giraffe and hyena. Apart from the amazing wildlife, the crater is a breathtaking visual spectacle making it a photographer’s paradise. The best views are when you’re on the edge looking down into the lush emerald-green caldera, topped by a deep blue cloud-studded sky.

Kilimanjaro

If you think trekking to the summit of the world’s second highest mountain is out of the realm of possibility, think again.  Summiting Kilimanjaro is one of the few surprisingly do-able real adventures left in the world.

See the “Roof of Africa” when you climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s most famous and tallest peak at nearly 6000 metres above sea level. The dormant volcanic mountain draws climbers from all around the world to ascend its summit, an adventurous multi-day trek that takes in strenuous hiking as well as spectacular scenery. The great thing about climbing Kili, one of Africa’s best adventure activities, is that you don’t need specialised climbing gear or years of climbing experience – just a professional guide, warm hiking clothes and a good level of fitness!

The Serengeti

The Serengeti offers the quintessential African safari experience. Picture rolling savanna and grasslands teeming with game – especially during the migration of millions of wildebeest and zebra, one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles. The best time to see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti is in June and July, but if you don’t manage to visit the park during these months, don’t worry! The Serengeti is amazing year round, and you’ll still get a chance to see the Big Five.

The Great Migration

The great wildebeest migration has also recently been proclaimed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. This annual event is when visitors can bear witness to some six million hooves pounding across the open plains, as more than 200,000 zebra and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelle join the wildebeests’ trek for fresh grazing. Yet even when the migration is quiet, the Serengeti offers some of the most scintillating game viewing in Africa.

Much of the annual migration cycle takes place in Tanzania, from the frenzied crossing of the Mara River in the north of the Serengeti in August and September, to a two-month bout of birthing in February and March on the Ndutu Plains, before the 1,000km pilgrimage begins again.

The people

There are a few different tribes who make their lives in the bush, but the most well-known is the colorfully dressed Maasai. While in country, one should 100% take a day to visit a Maasai village, browse its hand crafted wares, meet its hunters, and see its children.

The ancient nomadic stewards of much of the Rift Valley region are the iconic Maasai. They are among the most well known local tribes due to living in traditional Maasai villages near the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. They are most recognised by their distinctive customs and dress; their stunning bright robes, beaded jewellery and remarkable height have fascinated visitors for decades.

And there is so much more!

In addition to these stunning, world famous attractions, Tanzania has countless other fantastic destinations and experiences that may be less well known, but  are no less wonderful.  From the chimps of the Mahale Mountains in the west of the country, to the vast Ruaha and Selous national parks and secluded getaways on Pemba Island there are countless options for getting off the beaten track…

Does Tanzania sound like your kind of place?  If so, why not chat to our friendly and knowledgeable team about planning your ultimate Tanzania adventure?

500 elephants are being moved in Malawi in an attempt to preserve the current dwindling numbers – it is estimated that there are now fewer than 450,000 African elephants remaining, as a result of excessive poaching and habitat loss.  The exercise, a collaboration between African Parks and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, will be one of the biggest events ever to happen to Malawi’s wildlife Tourism.

Malawi have been very successful with their anti-poaching and ongoing management of human-wildlife conflict, which has resulted in a population surplus in Liwonde National Park (home to Malawi’s largest population of elephants at 800 strong) and Majete Wildlife Reserve, which are protected areas,

The huge relocation starts this week in Liwonde National Park.  Helicopters will be used to dart the elephants, who are then lifted by crane onto trucks to start their 300 km road journey to a newly created 16,000 hectare sanctuary at the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, close to Lake Malawi – which currently is home to 100 elephants.  The arriving elephants will be kept safe and secure in the sanctuary before being released, after time, into the main reserve.  There are also plans to relocate other wildlife into the reserve, to  build up the wildlife here again.

This is an extremely hopeful story for not only elephants, but for conservation and also for Malawi. Kelly While from Malawi Tourism says “We are delighted with African Parks’ plans to relocate and reintroduce species into Malawi’s Parks. If Malawi had a perceived weakness in tourism terms, it was that some of its neighbours offered a ‘better’ safari experience. But, as well as helping to safeguard the future for these magnificent animals, these developments will result in a total transformation of Malawi’s wildlife and safaris. Malawi will become one of the most complete destinations in Africa – Lake, Landscape, Culture and now Wildlife experiences of the very highest quality. Warm, welcoming and unspoilt, Malawi really is just waiting to be discovered.”

With the continued increase of rhino poaching in South Africa, Shamwari Game Reserve have added what they describe as “K9 tracking capacity” to their Rhino Protection Unit.

Now to geeks of a certain age this will have conjured up images of Doctor Who’s robotic dog from the 1970’s going into battle with the poachers, however the dog in question is actually an 18 months old Belgian Shepherd called Blade.

© Gillrivers | Dreamstime.com – K-9 Photo

Blade was identified as being the ideal candidate for the role as Shamwari by the Chipembere Rhino Foundation (CRF), who have successfully supplied trained dogs for rhino protection elsewhere in South Africa during 2014 and 2015. He was trained off site before moving to Shamwari  in April to finish his training with handler, Cabous Pretorius, and he has also had to adapt to living and working in a challenging Big Five environment – which he has done perfectly.

Shamwari Group General Manager, Joe Cloete comments that “Blade will be a valuable asset in the fight against rhino poaching and will primarily be utilised to locate and apprehend rhino poachers.  We sincerely thank the Chipembere Rhino Foundation for arranging Blade to come and work at Shamwari Game Reserve.”

Blade started work at Shamwari following completion of his final exams at the end of May, and we wish him and Cabous every success in the fight against rhino poaching.

Shamwari Game Reserve Introduces K9 Tracking

Mention the words ‘bucket list’ to almost anyone and if they haven’t done it already it’s highly likely that an African safari will feature somewhere on their list. That said, there is a common misconception that private safaris are a privilege of only the wealthy and although it’s true that in the context of a private safari holiday ‘cheap’ is a relative term, the truth is you won’t have to re-mortgage your house to make the dream a reality.

When it comes to perfect safari destinations in Africa, you are never short of choices, but for a truly affordable private safari option we think South Africa is a great place to start. Travel critics have been heaping awards on South Africa as one of the world’s best travel destinations and for good reason; this is a country guaranteed to get under your skin from the moment you arrive. With the added bonus of favourable exchange rates and no jet lag to worry about there really are few places better to experience your first safari adventure.

Now if you think a safari on a budget means you’ll be slumming it then think again. We’ve done a round up of some of the very best private safari destinations in South Africa for travellers on a budget.

Best Tented Safari Experience

Shindzela Tented Safari Camp is set in the Timbavati Game Reserve and offers an affordable Kruger safari experience, without compromising on excitement and thrills. There is something enchanting about staying in a tent on safari.  For an extra charge real wildlife junkies can book a ‘Sleep Out’ experience at the Shindzela Hide overlooking the Main Dam at Shindzela.  From here you can soak up the magic of the African night and enjoy front row seats from which to witness breath-taking night action.

Prices start from £79 per person per night, including all meals, tea/coffee and shared safari activities.

Best Alternative Safari

For a true wilderness experience few things beat a walking safari. Situated in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in the heart of Greater Kruger, Africa on Foot  specialises in walking safaris. Sharing unfenced borders with Kruger National Park means animals roam freely. Some of Africa’s most superb predators are found here and there is nothing more thrilling than walking in the open where a feeling of being in the wild is ever-present.  The more adventurous can book a stay in a treehouse at no extra cost.

Prices start from £115 per person per night, including all meals, tea/coffee, game walks and shared drives.

Best for Romance

To escape the realities of daily life and immerse yourself in the true spirit of Africa look no further that nThambo Tree Camp.  Situated in the heart of Southern Klaserie, this intimate and eco-friendly camp shares unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, making it prime Big Five viewing territory. Each of its five private chalets are raised on stilts and come complete with a four poster bed and private veranda overlooking the plains; the perfect escape for those seeking romance and adventure.

Prices start from £132 per person per night, including all meals, tea/coffee, game walks and morning/afternoon shared game drives (prices valid for the whole of 2016).

Best for Honeymoons

Honeymooners looking for an exhilarating and alternative way to kick start married life should look no further than Garonga Safari Camp. Set in the Makalali Conservancy, this unassuming sanctuary promises a more intimate wildlife encounter in an unhurried environment. Its luxury tents each have a wooden deck complete with hammock and spectacular views.  For a truly unique experience enjoy a bath in the bush followed by a night sleeping under the stars!

Prices start at £170 per person per night, including all meals and drinks (house wine), game drives, bush walks, bush baths, sleep-outs, picnics and even your laundry!

Best ‘Out of Africa’ Experience

If you want to reconnect with nature and experience the real magic of Africa then Umlani Bushcamp is for you. Located in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve and the heart of Big Five territory, this beautifully designed eco lodge is off the grid and the beaten track of tourists that flock to Kruger. For exclusive tranquillity there is a tree house about 2.5 km from the camp overlooking a dam, where the lodge can leave you for an hour or two with blankets, big comfortable pillows and a cooler box filled with drinks.

Prices start from £129 per person per night, including all meals, two private game drives, optional bush walk and all local brand drinks.

Best Family Safari

Forget Disney World and consider a family safari adventure, such as an authentic bushveld experience at Gomo Gomo Game Lodge. This laid-back, family-friendly lodge overlooks a waterhole, so when you’re not out in search of the Big Five you can sit and watch your kids faces light up with excitement as animals come to drink here.  You might even be lucky enough to see the odd baby elephant frolicking by the water’s edge.

Prices start from £97 per person per night (adult), including all meals, tea/coffee, morning and afternoon/evening shared game drives and bush walks.  Children under 13 go half price.

Has this got you thinking that a safari could be for you? If so our friendly and knowledgeable team is on hand to chat to you about planning the ultimate African adventure!

As much as documentaries such as Big Cat Diaries may inspire you to want to see the real thing, parents often dismiss the idea of a safari with nippers in tow because of concerns about safety, enjoyment and the general hassle factor. So is it possible to embark on a family safari holiday that is rewarding and enjoyable for all involved? Well we believe it is and done right the whole family will be buzzing from their bush adventures for years to come.

Safaris really are a holiday like no other and just like us big kids, your little kids will go totally wild for the wildlife.  Nothing can prepare you for the real thing and watching their little faces beaming with excitement and hearing their gasps of sheer amazement at the sights and sounds of the bush makes for double the adventure and double the fun.  Not only that, there’s a huge amount for kids to learn, from identifying animal tracks and dung to understanding the habits and appreciating the plight of the wildlife in Africa.  This makes for a unique educational experience where storybooks will literally come alive before their very eyes.

So if you think a family safari is for you here are our five dos and don’ts for planning the perfect adventure.

1. DO your research

When it comes to safaris some lodges have strict minimum age requirements so be sure to check that the lodges on your wish list cater for children.  Across South Africa, there are a number of safari lodges that offer excellent programmes for kids so while you take a well deserved break by the pool between game drives, your children can set off on ‘bush bumbles’ that will get eyes popping and set minds spinning.

 2. DON’T risk malaria

South Africa is, without doubt, the best place for young families; there is no jet lag to slow you down, the roads are excellent meaning you can self-drive and set your own pace and, most importantly, a number of the country’s ‘Big Five’ game reserves are malaria free so you won’t have to worry about malaria medication and can take the odd mosquito bite in your stride.

3. DO know when enough is enough

As well as adjusting to the new routine of early morning and late afternoon game drives, safaris require long periods of silent anticipation.  For children under the age of ten we advise three days’ safari action, providing plenty of opportunity to immerse yourselves in the magic of big game spotting without seeing the excitement fade and turn to boredom.  A combined safari and beach holiday could strike the perfect balance.

4. DO get on their wavelength

Build up the excitement through books and wildlife documentaries.  As mentioned, many lodges offer specially designed kids programmes with activities that are both educational and entertaining, from bush walks to junior tracking courses and themed bush picnics in between. Traditional folklore storytelling about ‘Why The Elephant Has A Trunk’ or ‘Why The Warthog Is So Ugly’ add to the fun.  Depending on age a pair of binoculars and/or a camera will let them get fully immersed in capturing the moment.

5. DON’T forget the other treats that South Africa has to offer

High on the ‘must see’ list of any visitor to South Africa is a trip along the Garden Route.   If you think this is only for the green-fingered holiday makers among us think again.  The Garden Route followed by a Big Five safari is a winning combination for families.   From shore-based whale and dolphin spotting to close encounters of a furry kind at Monkeyland and meeting elephants at Addo National Park, a trip along this stunning stretch of coastline is a feast for the eyes and perfect for a family adventure.

If you need help choosing a lodge or would like advice on planning your family adventure, our friendly and experienced team can help.