Although not as big as southerly neighbour Tanzania, Kenya - the birthplace of the classic African s... Read more
Go north! No, south! Wait, combine it with the coast! What on earth? Trying to decide your safari ... Read more
great article sandy, nice to see an emphasis on somewhere other than Lake Malawi for a change! I lov
Beyond Lake Malawi: Places Worth Leaving Your Hammock ForWow I read this and just sighed in longing for a road trip! You really bought the experience to life
Sometimes it's all in the JourneyWe're going to be on honeymoon in November this year, and looking at somewhere in South Africa to sp... Read more
According to a recent report by ATTAK, the number of flights shut down in the UK and Europe due to t... Read more
Hi Fredi Go with the travel company! It'll be much easier to secure flights, hotels, transfers and a
travel to ZanzibarHi Tracy, sounds like a fabulous trip! I think Lauren pretty much summed it up around when to go and
Best time of the year to safari in Tanzania / KenyaThe incredible soccer fever sweeping across South Africa at the moment is electric, astounding and h... Read more
At the end of last year my grandfather turned 85, and in the grand old tradition of my family, we se... Read more
Thanks for a great safari journal - loved all the detail and how you came to the 'tailormade safari'
My 1st Safari in KenyaWhat a fantastic experience! Gorilla tracking, from everyone I know who's done it, is an incredible
We visit gorillas and gorillas visit usI'm an expert on: Cape Town
The African safari holiday travel guide: luxury hotels, tailor-made Africa tours & safaris
July 20th, 2009
September 9th, 2010
South Africa
Beyond Lake Malawi: Places Worth Leaving Your Hammock For
great article sandy, nice to see an emphasis on somewhere other than Lake Malawi for a change! I love the plateaus and high-level land areas though - that image of the zebras is particularly striking....Read more
Sometimes it's all in the Journey
Wow I read this and just sighed in longing for a road trip! You really bought the experience to life - thank you! South Africa really does have that incredible sense of 'space' that makes the drive pa...Read more
Spotted, Moving Swiftly: the Best Places to See Cheetah
What a great blog! I love cheetah - they are such graceful animals and they move with such elegance. I remember tracking one male cheetah in Shamwari Private Game Reserve for over 30 minutes, just us ...Read more
Dear Sabi Sands: A Safari Wishlist
Fab blog! What an experience :) You saw such an incredible number of animals, and top game as well. No wonder the Sabi Sands has earned its reputation as the best game-viewing destination in SA. Great...Read more
So you think you know buffalo...?
Great Big 5 again nicola! Thanks for rounding off this series so well :) Most people assume lion are the most dangerous of the Big 5, but buffalo are actually the worst - they WILL charge and don't ba...Read more
Wining, Dining and More Dining at Singita
Such a fantastic treat! Singita really knows how to lay it all out - pure luxury in the bush. I've been to Boulders before, would love to visit Lebombo though!...Read more
Walking With Lions: Sound Conservation Strategy or Money-Making Scheme
I get angered when I hear about canned hunting. In my opinion, any industry that threatens the survival or right to life of an animal should be shut down - I don't care how much money it brings in. It...Read more
Great selection of deserts fynbosguy - the Namib just has to take the cake though - it's HUGE and vast and dangerous to get lost in......Read more
All of these ugly animals are amazingly adapted or have something clever about them! It seems they're compensating for their ugliness by being useful....Read more
Chimp Safari: Chimpanzee tracking in Africa
Thanks for a great blog emma, really informative and interesting! I think we all imagine an East Africa safari with the traditional Big 5 - it's cool to know other types of wildlife activities - like ...Read more
Allan you really made me laugh! The Transvaal Parabuthus Scorpian - I can just imagine!...Read more
Zimbabwean Luxury Safaris: Back on the Map
My mom and uncle went to Zim a few years ago, and they couldn't help but be amazed at the wilderness areas, the wildlife and the beauty (despite the country's political, economic & social problems...Read more
In the Trees: Tree Houses in Africa
I think that treehouse is a pretty amazing concept: being left in the middle of the bush at night... it's so romantic though! I don't know how safe I'd feel personally, but I can imagine if you're kee...Read more
So you think you know elephants...?
Thanks Nicola for a great blog - elephants definitely are one of the most fascinating African animals....Read more
I must say, most baby animals are cute - warthogs and even hyenas! it's just when they get older...these ones don't look all that attractive. But fynbos guy - you are SO right, these ugly features are...Read more
Bikes, Quads & Canoes: Alternatives to Game Drive Safaris
I'm glad you mentioned the silence - i think that's the one thing you miss when you're in a vehicle. We've all been on a game drive and the ranger suddenly cuts his engine - and amazingly - SILENCE! I...Read more
Gentle Giants of the Indian Ocean
This is also making me want to go diving! I've only ever been snorkelling - and in cold Atlantic waters too... it would be amazing to go diving in warm tropical waters like in Mozambique. Spotting a d...Read more
So you think you know lions...?
Fantastic blog, really learnt alot from this - it is amazing how much one doesn't know about Africa's biggest cat! I've seen black-maned lions in the Kalahari - and it was one of the highlights of my ...Read more
Budget Airline Offering Direct Flights to Kenya Wildlife Reserves
Thanks for the info. I think a lot of people are not quite sure how they're going to get to the reserves - as the idea of driving there is pretty daunting - particularly in East Africa. Nice to know y...Read more
Guided Game Drives vs Self Driving
I must say that I love guided game drives - you really get so much more out of your wildlife experience! Plus the half way snacks and drinks/coffee make up for being in the open air for a few hours (p...Read more
Vulture Poaching: The Future Up In Smoke
What an interesting story. It's amazing how African superstitions still have such a strong pull on our increasingly Westernised society. All we can hope for right now is increased awareness and educat...Read more
Chobe 101: Unravelling the Chobe National Park
I feel I've learnt a lot from this blog fynbosguy! The northern Botswana 'wilderness' has always been a bit of a blur between delta, marsh & woodlands to me, so thanks for clarifying the real Chob...Read more
Is a Cape Town Safari possible?
It's SUCH a great option especially if you don't have time to get all the way to Kruger, plus, as derek mentioned, it offers a variety of other activities, not just game drives. I'd love to go!...Read more
Luxury Golf Experiences on the Garden Route
I have to agree with you vanessa, these three golf resorts just take the cake when it comes to the garden route. Having visited all three (although I must admit, not played on them), they are have bea...Read more
What a great story. These kids are becoming part of the World Cup in their involvement in this, which is fantastic! It also shows the world how Africa 'makes do' and still makes it happen. Thanks for ...Read more
Putting the Wild back into Wilderness: A Southern Africa Wilderness Guide
What a great selection of truly remote African wilderness areas. I think the phrase 'wilderness' tends to be used for everything from an Eastern Cape reserve to the forests in Uganda - so its great to...Read more
See Inside Our Favourite Stadiums
Same as you emma, I never needed earplugs and I was thoroughly WOWED by the Cape Town Stadium. I think South Africa has put on a show to be rivalled across the world....Read more
What to do on a rainy day in Cape Town
I know some don't like the idea of a mall, but if you want another shopping experience other than the Waterfront, Canal Walk is a must-do. Plenty of shops, levels and food court areas -it's the bigges...Read more
High Water Mark: The 2010 Okavango Delta Flood
Latest news on this topic: rising water levels in the Okavango Delta means a whole lot more water-based activities! Check out the news report from Tourism Update here....Read more
I find it hugely exciting that South Africa is continously being updated and refreshed to welcome international visitors - we want to be seen more and more like a desirable international destination! ...Read more
The Best of Both: Safari and Beach
Great examples of how to combine your African holiday emma - I love the Kruger/Mozambique combo, and for something a little more adventurous - East Africa & Zanzibar!...Read more
Wishful Thinking? Why South Africa is going to win the FIFA™ World Cup
All I'm hoping for at this point, is that Bafana beats Mexico in the opening game - giving us a better chance of getting into the second round. But soccer is soccer, and that means surprises come ofte...Read more
Secret spots on the Garden Route
Can I go? Great selection of top Garden Route spots - and all get you away from the more buzzing tourist spots like Knysna and Plett. Would love to spend some time on a long beach walk at one of these...Read more
this has just given me goosebumps, as I recall all those great moments I've had out in either the South African or Namibian bushveld, or in those quiet little areas of the countryside where the air is...Read more
what a great, uplifting blog! It was great to see South Africans of all cultures and races united in their support this weekend - giving everyone (locally and internationally) a taste of what the Worl...Read more
Luxurious Responsible Tourism in Remote Namibia
I think many of these conservation havens in Namibia, and in many other wilderness areas in Africa, have come to the conclusion that luxury lodges go well with conservation efforts. It brings in money...Read more
Zambia Safaris: Back On The Map?
Those photos show just how beautiful Zambia's parks are, and makes you realise there is more to this country than just the pocket that is Victoria Falls. I want to go :)...Read more
A single Tourism Visa for Southern Africa in the pipeline
This is the best idea for southern Africa tourism. Seriously! Imagine an easy flow of people from one country to another - it would speed up efficiency and make the entire administrative experience so...Read more
I love this! " the initial pessimism far outweighs the potential consequences of blind optimism." So true... we need to be realistic and thorough when organising travel insurance, rather than getting ...Read more
Ibo Island: Seafood, Soccer and Cultural Celebration
Great blog! I think that Ibo's most attractive feature is its remoteness, it's 'off the beaten track' appeal and its 'beautifully derelict' buildlings. love that! Would love to visit someday......Read more
New Hominid Fossil Found in South Africa
I think anyone visiting South Africa and who is interested in paleanotology won't be disappointed. We have so many great historical sites, rock art and engraving sites as well as many museum exhibitio...Read more
Durban - An Airport 'Boom Shaka-laka' in time for the World Cup
I have friends who flew into Durban via the old airport, and are flying out via King Shaka! Nice difference :)...Read more
I do... like weddings in Africa
I must say, I love weddings in the Cape Winelands - the setting could not be prettier, the food is divine and the wine just amazing. It's such a romantic spot for an African wedding, but I think if yo...Read more
Iceland Volcano: As The Dust Settles
I just can't get over the name of the volcano - it's almost impossible to pronounce! I heard two days ago that Lonely Planet has offered their European City Guide app on iphone for free until today, s...Read more
Take a Bite out of South Africa
I'm hungry already just looking at the pictures! I really hope South Africa's cuisine wows travellers here during the World Cup - there is so much choice and so much variety. Tuck in!...Read more
South African lingo is downright unique: the use of so many languages to form one general vernacular is amazing! ie: Ag ma bru, lets gooi a worsie on the braai and klap a dop - but don't get babbelas!...Read more
This place is a true African wilderness. Wow! I love the wide open spaces and diversity in the landscapes and environment. The YouTube video is amazing - I would recommend anyone to watch it who has a...Read more
No Rain, No Gain: Why Travel to Botswana in the Off Season.
I love the photos - it really does look lovely and green (and watery!) I've been to Kruger in December/January and the newness of everything is amazing. Everyone says game-viewing is harder, and altho...Read more
Africa's Most EXCLUSIVE Experiences
Oh I know! My kind of holiday is total luxury in a private tented camp in the middle of the bush - where you're away from people and the business of life. That's exclusive, remote, safari magic....Read more
I personally love outdoor concerts, and I don't think anywhere in South Africa is more beautiful than Kirstenbosch! I've had some great times there listening to local and international artists. If you...Read more
Seeds of Recovery: African Medicinal Plants
I can say that the vygie is a good remedy for jellyfish stings, I was once stung on my face while swimming along the Sunshine Coast; let's just say the close proximity of the plant was a Godsend befor...Read more
This sounds really fantastic, just the idea of going away to be pampered is relaxing! I have had the amazing experience of a treatment at the One & Only Spa, and that was amazing. I can just imagi...Read more
Travel Photography: Lessons Learnt
I was in Robertson this weekend and took my camera along with me pretty much wherever we went: managed to get some great 'in the moment' shots as well as small details, so thanks for the advice :)...Read more
Luxury Rail Travel in Africa: Rovos Rail versus Blue Train.
52nd trip! wow. that's impressive! Since I was small, I've always heard about the Blue Train, but it's only in recent years that I've heard about Rovos from people who had been before. It seems like t...Read more
A few additionals: definitely insect repellent or tabard, head torch most definitely as you mentioned, a kikoi/sarong which can be used as a scarf or towel, spare batteries and a charger! :)...Read more
Getting a Bird's Eye View over Africa
I think I suffer too much from vertigo to take a flip on a microlight, but then again, if offered the opportunity...I might just take it! A hot air balloon trip over the Serengeti or Namib desert woul...Read more
Travel Photography: Lessons Learnt
Do you have any tips on those 'photographers' with a decent 'point and shoot'? I love taking photos, but I'm quite happy with my camera - it's a 2010 Nikon Coolpix L22 - 12 mp and 3.6 zoom....Read more
South Africa’s best self-drive routes
I actually love driving through the Karoo - it's starkly beautiful, with long roads going into total nothingness! But it's great for discovering the wide open spaces of South Africa. If you're not to ...Read more
I was watching Top Billing the other night and saw the hosts abseiling down Table Mountain. Wow it looked scary, but what an adrenalin rush! Maybe once in my life I'll try something like that! x...Read more
Weird Things We've Eaten in Africa
So great to hear all the reactions to this blog! I love trying new things, although the idea of some food really does 'turn the stomach' a little! The good news is that our venison (as mentioned above...Read more
EXPLORE CONSTANTIA’S ‘BIG FIVE’ WINE ROUTE
I have always loved Groot Constantia - the beautiful lawns, great restaurants and amazing vineyards. My parents got married in the wine cellar, so it has special meaning for me. PLUS, their wine is am...Read more
I simply love the Wild Coast and the slow pace of life here. My absolute favourite is Mkhambathi Nature Reserve. Thanks for sharing this awesome trip! I've got to go again :)...Read more
Birds of a Feather: my Top 5 Birding Spots in Southern Africa
I know they are the most obvious birds, but I remember an amazing ostrich encounter around a waterhole in Etosha. The male was after the female in a BIG way - they ran around the area at top speed for...Read more
Ok so I managed to get through Argus 2010 on Sunday with a time of just over 5 hours. Rather windy, but rather enjoyable nonetheless, I'm looking forward to next year (hopefully without cramp)! Anyone...Read more
Top Tips on Enjoying a Malaria-FREE Safari
It's so neccessary for a safari, particularly those high-risk areas. People sometimes disregard the medication because of the supposed side affects, but rather safe than sorry :)...Read more
Is a luxury safari worth the cost?
wow. I'm so totally there right now! Great blog Derek, wish I was on a game drive right now!...Read more
Just because Africa is poor doesn't mean it's cheap!
I agree with you Vanessa, while Africa is rightfully perceived as a 'poor' continent in terms of the economy, it is wrongfully perceived as a cheap holiday destination. But that ALL depends on what yo...Read more
Tents & Trucks - A guide to Overland Camping Safaris
What is great about overland trips is that the itinerary, guiding, transport and admin is all done for you, so you don't need to worry too much about the details! But yes, if you're going to be campin...Read more
Taking a Slow Drive up the West Coast
I've yet to visit Paternoster, but I do like quaint little Lambert's Bay with its interesting restaurants and protected gannet colony. The West Coast is so definitively different to other areas close ...Read more
A Guide to Driving in South Africa
I know many international visitors only feel comfortable with a GPS system, but a lot of South African hire cars don't seem to have this in them? Are people happy just to go it with a map? Or does it ...Read more
Reasonably priced accommodation IS available over the World Cup in South Africa.
It's great to know that local suppliers and tour operators are keeping their costs down - seeing that longevity in the tourism industry and sustainable business practices are MORE likely to see return...Read more
Hiking Cape Town: Not Just Table Mountain
I love Cape Town! So many awesome areas to explore:) I've always loved hiking around Silvermine - the dam is one of my favourite swimming spots....Read more
You're welcome! Remember if you're not keen on traffic, a leisurely mountain bike is also a great way of seeing Cape Town's views. Anywhere along the top of Table Mountain or even in Cape Point Nature...Read more
Hi Emma, I'd definitely recommend hiring a bike in Simonstown - there's an old-fashioned bicycle hiring place just as you come into Simonstown, and you can enjoy a super leisurely ride out. There are ...Read more
Want to know more about the scenic False Bay coast? check out this blog: A lazy day on the false bay coast....Read more
Have you heard the good news from South Africa?
It's so uplifting to hear postive things about South Africa! This country has SO much to offer: we're doing good things, providing solutions, impacting lives and communities and putting on the greates...Read more
Thanks fynbosguy for the fun blog post! Sun City sure is a kid's paradise; I remember my first and only trip there as a teenager - we simply went mad over the Valley of the Waves and the massive slide...Read more
Fantastic blog sandy! That sounds exhilarating, scary and memorable all at once. I think I might be able to gather my nerves and do this. :)...Read more
Old Mac Daddy: ee-eye, ee-eye … woah!
They've chosen the 11 finalists who will be decorating their own trailers in Elgin. Check them out HERE!...Read more
Virtual hike: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid
Thanks, that sounds superb :) I think I've done too many jeep track hikes, I need to get into the fynbos and smell the flowers! Great advice, thanks....Read more
Virtual hike: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid
Which route do you recommend to 'avoid the crowds' as it were? I think I need to upgrade my camera and take it on my next hike! Those flowers are stunning....Read more
Luxury Kruger Safari Lodges - all they're cracked up to be?
Thanks Carlien, I also feel with the growth in conservation awareness and eco-conciousness, a luxury safari with all the trimmings will be even better if you know you're giving back. A good thing is t...Read more
How To Fit in at Local South African Football Matches
I know I'm going to at least ONE world cup game, and for me, it really is about being there, experiencing the vibe, being in the brand new Cape Town Stadium, and saying 10 years later - 'I was there'....Read more
Picnic Diaz Beach Cape Point! Or winetasting and picnic at Steenberg wine estate. Either way, it's involving either a picnic somwhere remote (maybe a corner in Kirstenbosch Gardens), or a breakfast in...Read more
What's so great about the Whale Coast?
It's also such a break from the hectic activity in Cape Town. I'd recommend a few days in the Overberg and Whale Coast before going on safari - which are often early mornings go go go - you don't real...Read more
I can just imagine! You should read Carel's journal - Sharing Your Personal Space in South Luangwa of his travels through Africa - some hairraising stuff......Read more
Cover to Cover: 5 Must-Read African Books
ah, fynbosguy, all is forgiven! but you're right - Long Walk to Freedom is most definitely a Long Read to Get Through, but for some reason I found it most compelling. Another few recommends: Rules of ...Read more
Old Mac Daddy: ee-eye, ee-eye … woah!
The concept is amazing, but what's even more incredible are the number of amazing designs that were submitted! I've checked them out, and I think these themes could be amazing: (http://tinyurl.com/yg2...Read more
Cover to Cover: 5 Must-Read African Books
Ok so you've got John Carlin's take on Nelson Mandela surrounding the Rugby World Cup, but what about Long Walk to Freedom by Mandela himself? That's quite an iconic African book. I'll also suggest Th...Read more
Shark Cage Diving - What's in it for the Sharks?
Great blog! I think we all to often forget or overlook the ethical aspects of wildlife viewing, and sometimes run the ground down in our 4x4s, disturb fragile ecosystems and goggle at animals. But, fo...Read more
Tanzania Safari: Africa in one country
Do you think it's because of the migration that the Serengeti is pumped so much in tourism? No one really knows about the lesser parks like Ruaha and the Selous, but they seem to offer just as good a ...Read more
When the Sun Goes Down in Cape Town
Well the new place for something different is most definitely Vaudeville, found just off Buitengracht in Cape Town. A magical performance supper, it features a 'cirque du solei' of sorts, mischevous m...Read more
Game Viewing Magic in Etosha National Park
Thanks Carel, I just love Etosha because it is not a crowded place, it simply...is. The wide open spaces and the wildlife just seem to 'be there' quite naturally (which they are), but it's almost like...Read more
Benguerra Island: Life in a Postcard
Thanks so much for capturing the amazing ambience of this place - it really is like heaven on a beach. I think I need to arrange a trip to Mozambique - it's like summer all day every day!...Read more
Living up to the hype: the Okavango Delta
I've always wanted to go to the Delta - it's just so different to any wildlife experience in South Africa, and since my wildlife encounters have just been in SA and Namibia - this watery park would be...Read more
Vanessa, I really do agree with you. The fact is that the turns are so tight - bigger trucks are simply NOT going to manage them - tarred or not. I think your idea about rail travel is far better - it...Read more
I also just can't imagine Sani Pass becoming this amazing link between South Africa and Lesothp from a commerce perspective. Transport departments in both countries seem to be punting this, but even t...Read more
Which African Beach is the Best?
Wow Vanessa - really great write up and incredibly valid information. It's so nice to have a good breakdown on Africa's top beaches - I guess when you're choosing a beach destination in Africa - you w...Read more
Top 5 Places to Grab a Coffee in Johannesburg
I know this is a coffee blog, but I just had to mention The Tea Room at Crabtree & Evelyn in the Fourways Design Quarter. A friend took me there once when I didn't know anything about Joburg, and ...Read more
Riding an Elephant Bareback Means 'Going With the Flow'
In case you wanted to know, the Addo Elephant Back Safaris website can be found here. :)...Read more
Wish you were here...for Christmas in Cape Town!
I must say, the 'fullness' of all beaches, restaurants etc lured me away from Cape Town and into the Eastern Cape; I had Christmas on a farm outside the tiny historical village of Thomas River between...Read more
Sabi Sands: A Leopard Wonderland
The Sabi Sands are one of the best places in SA to see leopards, miss claudiskies you were exceptionally lucky to see so many. I agree with emma - stunning photos!...Read more
Goodness, I can imagine! 65 and still conquering the world - big props to her!...Read more
Cyber-exercise: Come on a Virtual Cape Town Hiking Experience with Me!
Thank you Fynbos Guy - I really felt like I was on this hike :) Next one please!...Read more
Another stunning golf course is the Leopard Creek Country Club course, located on the border of Kruger. This weekend Pablo Martin from Spain won the Alfred Dunhill Championship beating out South Afric...Read more
Doing it for the first time: an African wildlife safari.
I will say amen to this! Etosha is superb for game viewing; the endless horizons, millions (yes, millions) of springbok as far as the eye can see and the looming shapes of dusty ellies. I've only ever...Read more
I'll Have the Salmon Roses Please!
I've just remembered! A great and affordable sushi spot is in Claremont - above the Fresh Food Market just outside Macdonalds, Cavendish. Half-price during the week after 7, a steady flow of revolving...Read more
Fishhoek is awesome for families, ice-creams and warm water, while Muizenberg is ideal for surfers - beginners to pros... My favourites are Llandudno for sunset picnics and a game of touch rugby, as w...Read more
Extreme sports events are unbelievable - and even more so the athletes who willingly choose to participate. I attended Iron Man in Port Elizabeth this year - and wow. It is hectic. * 3.8km swim (152 l...Read more
Accommodated Safaris in Africa: Different Strokes for Different Folks
I've camped, stayed in many a rest camp, enjoyed safari lodges and stayed in uber luxury at Singita Ebony... and all are awesome and all have their own amazing experiences. For me, I love a rest camp ...Read more
I've been to Sun City out of golf season - and wow it sure does make a big impact! I walked the top few holes of the course - it is so unique with crocodiles in the water and water birds all over the ...Read more
Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and….Wellington?
Wow emma, this trip sounds really fantastic! I'm a stickler for wine and cheese/olives/bread combinations - and it sounds like Wellington doesn't disappoint! I'll definitely be making a trip through t...Read more
World Cup Final Draw: Getting The Party Started
It is so exciting! I've got tickets to at least ONE game next year - and with the talent playing at the new Cape Town Stadium, it's all going to be very exciting :) It's so awesome to see Capetonians ...Read more
An Insider’s Guide to Breakfast in Cape Town
Ooh, I've found this great little spot in Kalk Bay - it's called TriBeca - and it's pretty much opposite the Brass Bell. Great for the New York vibe, the delicious and HUGE lattes and yummy breakfast...Read more
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