A brief history:

The Serengeti plains have been inhabited by the Maasai people for centuries, but were only discovered by Europeans in the late 19^th century. Dr. Oscar Bauman, a German geographer and explorer, was the first to enter the park in 1892. The Maasai, known for being fierce warriors, protected the land and prevented the exploitation of resources by the Europeans. The Maasai have subsequently moved to the Ngorongoro highlands after the creation of the park. The Serengeti National Park stretches from the north of Tanzania into the southern parts of Kenya.

The majesty of nature:

The Serengeti is famous the world over for the massive annual wildebeest migration. Roughly 1.2million wildebeest undertake the perilous trek to other grazing fields. About 500 000 new baby wildebeest are born every year on this incredible journey. This is a perfectly synchronized natural phenomenon that amazes any who sees it.

The abundance of wildebeest and other large game has led to an increase in the amount of predators in the Serengeti. This means that your chances of spotting a lion or the elusive leopard are much better than previous years. So, if you are lucky you might even be able to spot the entire Big 5 in one trip.

What to do besides safari:

One of the best ways to go out and truly experience this awe inspiring place is to go on a photographic expedition. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned photographer or newbie with a compact camera, anyone can capture the beauty of this spectacular place. From the great migration to the tiniest ant, all provide you the opportunity to take the most beautiful photos, just like a National Geographic pro.

You can also experience the environment from the perspective of a local by having one of the Maasai people accompany you as a guide. If this doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you can go on a hot air balloon and see the beauty of this place from an aerial perspective.

The Serengeti is truly spectacular. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the full power of nature with all its beauty and destruction. This is not a relaxing beach holiday, no, this is an experience; an experience that will leave a permanent impression on you and change your perspective on life.

Just stay out of the way of the wildebeest, they will leave a permanent impression on you too …

(This is a post by our intern Kristian Meijer)

(Image by Koen Muurling, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

The islands were originally discovered and colonized by the Portuguese is the late 15^th century. They then started using slaves to work in the sugar plantations and subsequently became one of the biggest exporters of sugar in Africa. In the 19^th century they started growing what is considered to be some of the finest coffee and cacao in the world.

Today this island has transformed itself into something truly extraordinary; paradise, untouched by the masses of tourists. Beautiful turquoise waters, unexplored jungles and some of the best coffee and chocolate in the world make this island one of the last true paradises on earth.

This island is relatively unknown so it doesn’t attract that many visitors, roughly 20 tourists go there every week. That’s right 20! What that means is you will most likely have the beach all to yourself. That sounds fantastic!

The lack of tourists does not mean there is nothing to do on the island. It is culturally and ecologically diverse. Although the island has a large jungle there aren’t any predators like lions or tigers. There are also a few night clubs and bars, for when you are tired of the sights and want to dance the night away.

Most locals on the island are very poor, and because of this do not eat luxurious food. If you don’t want to eat fruit bats with the locals do, don’t fret. The Hotel Miramar is a four star luxury hotel and has a fantastic restaurant that caters to every taste. The hotel has air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV. They also have a 10 000 square meter garden and 600 meter swimming pool.

This island then is something to treasure; a beautiful island teeming with culture and life. A perfect place if you want to escape the pressures of society and just ‘go-slow’.

You can visit the country’s official website for more information.

(This is a post by our intern Kristian Meijer)

(Image by Joao Maximo, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

Geologists speculate that the Fish River Canyon formed from a fracture in the earth’s crust over 500 million years ago, but San Bushmen natives in the area think something quite different happened. They believe that a large serpent named KouteignKooru carved the canyon as it was trying to escape being captured. If you look closely at the valley of the canyon, you can almost see the shape of a giant serpent.

The canyon is 100 miles long and 1,800 feet tall. In some areas, the Fish River Canyon is up to 17 miles wide, which means that there are lots of opportunities for visitors to walk around and explore. The rocks that make up the canyon are pink, brown, gray, and even purple. The gorgeous Fish River runs in the valley of the canyon. The canyon is home to quite a few interesting species of animals. These include mountain zebras, horses, and over 60 species of birds. Note that it’s rare to spot a mountain zebra while visiting the canyon, so if you spot one consider yourself lucky!

Many tourists like to swim in the Ais-Ais Hot Springs, which are a part of the Fish River. The hot springs are full of minerals and are thought to have healing properties. The temperature of the Ais-Ais Hot Springs can get up to 60 degrees Celsius, so it’s not always safe to swim there. The springs are closed when they get too hot, which is usually between November and March.

So, if you decide to take a trip to Namibia, don’t forget to stop by the Fish River Canyon, take a dip in the Ais-Ais Hot Springs, and watch the sun set atop one of the most beautiful canyons in the world!

About the Author: Logan is a guest writer on the topics of travel, natural beauty, and hiking.

(Image by Frames-of-Mind, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

The food and water supply of the Serengeti soon begins to diminish, meaning that the wildebeest, zebra and antelope proceed towards greener pastures. The animals tend to divide and take separate routes between April and July and are followed closely by scores of predatory hyenas, cheetahs and lions. The Mara River is their next destination and the most generous watering point available to the wildebeest en route to their eventual finishing point, the Masai Mara.

When the time comes, the surviving animals return south to their original location in the Serengeti. Many of the animals do not survive the migration. This can be for several reasons, such as predatory attacks, being swept away by the current of the river or simply because of exhaustion and weakness. The 500,000 new calves are therefore essential for keeping the species alive.

There are a number of excellent safari camps and lodges in the Mara and Serengeti to keep the adventures of the wildebeest fully visible to tourists. One of these camps is the Cottars 1920s Camp situated on 22,000 acres of private land in the heart of the Masai Mara. The stylish camp enjoys fantastic views over the rolling plains where the large herds of wildebeest congregate. Cottars Camp is very traditional with huge white canvas tents that have been furnished in classic East African safari style.

Another superb luxury safari camp is the award winning Elephant Pepper Camp. Situated on the edge of a forest overlooking the beautiful Masai Mara, this original eco-friendly bush camp consists of eight large en-suite tents with authentic East African interiors.The camp is put up for the season and closed for three months of the year to allow time for the area to rejuvenate. These luxury camps allow guests to experience the Great Migration in a variety of ways; on a game drive, walking safari accompanied by an experienced Masai guide, in a hot air balloon or on a horse riding safari. If you want guaranteed sightings of Africa’s greatest wildlife, the Great Wildebeest Migration is your chance to have the most unforgettable adventure.

Author Bio: Africa Exclusive is a luxury safari tour operator specializing in exclusive tailor-made Kenya safari holidays to Africa and the Indian Ocean.

(Image supplied by author)

Ibo Island – Mozambique

This small island on Mozambique’s northern coast is a culturally rich archipelago, filled with local history. It is situated 5km from the mainland. This island is for those who are looking to have a great time by experiencing excellent local food and rich tradition and staying in luxurious island resorts with king size beds. Fort of São is an old fort on Ibo. It was built in the late eighteenth century and still stands today. The main attraction to this island is the sand spit that can be reached by a 30 minute trip in a traditional dhow (small boat). The sand spit is a small island of sand, perfect for a day of fishing and cooking with friends. This island is a hidden gem and is well worth visiting.

Victoria Falls – Zambia

Victoria Falls is one of the most beautiful sights in Africa, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although it is not the tallest, nor the longest waterfall in the world, it is the largest. It is a majestic body of water that reminds us of just how small we are compared to the power of nature. Although the entrance fee is steep ($30 for international tourists and $20 for SADC passport holders), it is well worth the price. Those who are adventurous enough can also go for a scenic helicopter ride. The falls also offer excellent accommodation in the form of Ilala Lodge Hotel. This is the closest hotel to the falls and caters to every budget, with standard and deluxe rooms available. Victoria Falls is one of the gems of Africa and is a must see.

Lake Malawi – Malawi

Lake Malawi is one of the largest lakes in the world and contains more than a thousand species of fish. The lake forms in integral part of life in the lakeside towns, with many of the residents becoming fishermen. Temperatures in the lake range from 24 to 29 degrees Celsius and are perfect for snorkelling or diving. There are several fantastic resorts and hotels available, some with fantastic views of the lake. Lake Malawi has several beautiful beaches where you can spend your days relaxing and taking in the natural beauty of your surroundings. Lake Malawi is a fantastic beach holiday, situated in the heart of Africa.

(This is a post by our new intern Kristian Meijer)

(Image by Rosino, CC by SA 2.0, via Flickr)

Morocco is home to the ever-shifting and ever-beautiful Sahara desert, as well as the Dromedary camels. You can experience the magnificent dunes of the Erg Chebbi, the kasbahs of Rissani and Aoufouss by trekking through the Moroccan landscape on the back of a camel. However, unless you feel an affinity with this animal you shouldn’t trek for longer than a day to start off with as the pleasure might not be worth the pain. The borders of Figuig and Oujda are the most popular departure points for those seeking a quiet moment in the endless deserts.

If you are seeking a city festival then be sure to visit Djemaa el Fna in Marrakesh. Here you will find anything from acrobats and storytellers to musicians and snake charmers. This city is all about entertainment, live music and eccentric performances.

If you are interested in ancient civilisations then you’re likely to enjoy Ouka’medenis with its pre-historic rock carvings of animals. The Archaeological Museum of Rabat also offers a look into Morocco’s ancient civilisations and the tools they used for surviving.The Atlantic coast of Morocco is well known as the home of several ancient civilisations; namely the Acheuleans, Mousterians and Aterians.

If you want to witness something truly unique and local then Souss Valley in Agadir is worth a visit. The goats of the Souss Valley will put a smile on your face as they are known for climbing Argan trees in order to forage on the higher branches.

In terms of accommodation, there is a large variety of options to choose from. Morocco offers about 100,000 hotel beds along with self-catering apartments in Agadir, Marrakesh, and Tangier. There are also well-established camping sites throughout Morocco. Camping and caravanning are a great way to socialise with others as campsites are very vibrant and filled with visitors most of the time.

You can find youth hostels in Asni, Azrou, Casablanca, Fez, Ifrane, Meknes and Rabat. They are much cheaper than hotels and self-catering apartments. If you prefer a more homely vibe then make yourself comfortable in one of the local Riads, meaning ‘guest houses’. Riads are traditional homes converted into cosy guest rooms with roof terraces as well as Jacuzzis. Riads are tiled masterpieces of architecture, and breakfast will usually be included in the price.

Visit www.morocco.com to find out more on the country of cultural flavours, rich architecture, and diverse nature.

(Post by Ivelina Dineva)

(Image by MEJones, stock.xchng)

Within the Hottentots-Holland Mountain Catchment Area you will find the most extreme and well-known kloofing in South Africa. The park can attribute most of its popularity to Suicide Gorge, a 20m high cliff where kloofers leap through the air as a sort of grand finale to their lengthy excursion.  This experience is one that underlines the struggles between rationale and pure faith; taking such a plunge requires impulse rather than logic.  After the 17km trek through land, water, and air, kloofers reach the final leg of their trip at the crest of the Suicide Gorge.

As you stand atop the rock face, stomach aflutter, the staggering gravity of the situation will come to fruition as you stare down from baffling heights.  This is when you prepare yourself to take a leap of faith, waiting for the split second when you are able abandon all ideas of self-preservation. Springing from the steep rock, you race downward through the air; it is only then when you realize the true “gravity of the situation.”

Feeling as though you’re in suspended animation, you cringe and your body tightens. The rippled water below now seems miles away and your stomach rushes upwards into your chest. Flailing your arms for stability, you are able count four escalating seconds as the air roars louder and louder in your ears.

 A great rush of water envelops your entire body as you swoop into silence, entering the deep chilly pool. The abysmal albeit calm dream world found beneath the surface seems to provide a sense of comfort after such a thrilling ordeal. As you emerge towards a distorted sun, millions of tiny bubbles tickle your face. Breaching the surface to take your first breath, the sight of the towering crag provides you with a sense of accomplishment as you stare back to platform from which you just jumped.

Though quick and short lived, the experience of Suicide Gorge will parade you through a spectrum of emotion. The excitement of a new adventure strengthens your soul at the beginning, but it soon turns to fear as you stare down the cliff. Fearlessness rears it head briefly when you decide to jump, quickly turning into doubt after you leave the safety of solid ground.  Once safely in the water you enter a state of fantasy and comfort. As you emerge from the depths, you are proud of what you’ve done.  Lastly you re-enter the initial excitement you felt before you jumped – bringing everything full circle.  It seems that the curiosity of Suicide Gorge will remind you of the virtues of life and death, as well as the struggles and triumphs in between.

Teddy Burrage is a travel writer from Portland, Maine.  He encourages you to embrace adventure as you set off into the wilderness.  He suggests Excellent Hotels for hotel bookings in Cape Town, or anywhere else life may take you!

(Image by Full On Adventure, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

The Apple App Store — a marketplace for iPad, iPod, and iPhone devices –is filled with useful travel apps. Here are five must-have travel apps for iPad tablet users. For best results, users need a good mobile broadband connection and a little extra time to explore.

Google Translate

Google Translate is a free translation app that is great to have when travelling internationally. The app translates words and phrases for more than 60 different languages. For about a quarter of those languages, users can translate by speaking rather texting words and phrases. They can also hear some of the translations read back to them.

Non-Latin scripts, such as Chinese and Japanese, are spelled out in Latin characters to enable users to read the translation phonetically. Favorite translations can be stored and retrieved for future reference.
Kayak

People who have yet to make holiday travel plans will need a world of luck and a very wide wallet to implement their last-minute plans. Flexibility is essential, too. For their iPad tablet, they need Kayak.

Kayak is a top-rated website for finding great air fares and hotel accommodations. In fact, it is the largest aggregator of flights and lodging on the Internet. The iPad app solidly extends the Kayak web service to tablet computers.

In addition to locating flights and hotels, users can also book tickets and reservations, search for rental cars, organise itineraries, and track flight statuses. A free app version is available, but users can opt out of the advertisements for a nominal fee.

Skype

Skype for iPad brings Skype contacts up-close and personal with full-screen video. Users can call, video-call, or instant message (IM) any of their contacts right from their fingertips on their iPads.

This app enables travellers to talk face-to-face with their friends and relatives, while en route to their destination. l can also show their contacts exactly what they are seeing along the way with front- and back-facing cameras.

The initial download and installation is free, but adding just a little money opens up numerous other Skype features. This includes cheap calls to mobile and landline phones right from the tablet. An online number allows other people to call travellers directly on iPad.
 

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is the Internet’s largest travel community. The tablet app, optimised for the iPad, may be the essential download for travellers. Travel reviews, maps, photographs, forums, and opinions answer almost any question for the traveller on the go.

This free travel app enables users to search for millions of restaurants, hotels, and attractions around the world. Travellers can even create and upload their own reviews. The latest version fixes minor bugs so travellers can fully enjoy the many unique features: virtual tours, live views, cheap flights, hotel discounts, saved pages, and more.

WiFi Finder

WiFi Finder is another great travel app for iPad, and it is free to download and install. Using the iPad’s built-in GPS system, WiFi finder tells travellers exactly where to find the closest WiFi hotspots.

The app works closely with all the top free and paid services to provide accurate and current information. Users can filter the locator by service provider or location type. When the app locates a hotspot, it provides a telephone number and directions for that location.

Tablet owners have discovered numerous uses for their iPads. Tablet computers make great e-readers, movie viewers, netbook replacements, and gaming devices. They are also the ultimate travel companion, whether someone is venturing across the city or across the world. Along with a good mobile broadband connection, these five travel apps are good to have along for the ride — or flight, as the case may be.

This is a guest article by Ruben Corbo, a writer for the website Broadband Expert where you can find internet service providers in your area and compare prices on different deals for your mobile broadband needs.

1. Table Mountain

Any trip to Cape Town is not complete without a visit to the historic Table Mountain. The mountain sits majestically over the Victoria and Albert waterfront, and provides a great backdrop for pictures. Ride a cable car to the top of the mountain and take in the surrounding views of the city. The cableway was first completed in 1929, and has since been renovated to ensure safety.

If you are up for an adventure, go for a hike on one of the 550 paths that lead up the mountain. These hikes are fairly difficult, but travellers can take comfort in knowing the trip back down is much easier. It is best to go to the top of the mountain early in the morning, as a cloud of fog (known as the tablecloth) tends to come in around 10:30 in the morning, making travel to the top nearly impossible.

2. Robben Island and the Victoria and Albert Waterfront

The Victoria and Albert Waterfront (V&A) is situated at the foot of Table Mountain, and contains some of the best dining and shopping in Cape Town. The area boasts over 80 restaurants and over 450 retail stores, making it easy for one to spend the entire day shopping. The V&A waterfront is also where you can buy tickets for trips to Robben Island – home to Nelson Mandela’s prison cell from the days of Apartheid. This is great education opportunity for students, particularly those enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. On the tour, students will get to see where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years, and chance to explore Robben Island Museum. However, make sure to purchase your tickets in the morning, as trips tend to sell out, especially during peak seasons.

3. Wine Tasting

Head to the northern portion of the peninsula and visit Steenberg and Buitenverwachting estates, which both offer excellent wine tastings. If you want to be a little more organized, take a wine tour by chauffered sidecar, and visit Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. The Cape Winelands are gorgeous due to the moderate weather, making this activity highly recommended.

4. Visit the Peninsula and the Penguin Colony

If you have time for a wonderful day trip, rent a car, find a map, and head down to the coast to visit the Cape of Good Hope. Here you can eat at the famous Two Oceans restaurant, which has amazing seafood and spectacular views. You can also walk the Shipwreck Trail, which provides views of the 26 shipwrecks that occurred around Cape Point. If you happen to be in town from June to November, you can even watch whales swimming past the point on their annual migration. On your way back, head to the East Coast of the peninsula and visit Simon’s Town and the famous penguin colony, which is home to over 2,500 African penguins! Simon’s Town became a haven for merchants and people travelling by ship, and to this day remains a great tourist attraction.

5. Shark Diving

Last but certainly not least, those who are brave and adventurous should try shark diving. There are many sites around the peninsula to see sharks, but why not do it up close and personal in a dinky steel cage? It sounds terrifying, and it is! You will get up close and personal with great white sharks, which range from 12 to 20 feet long. Great whites are surface feeders, so they are easy to see when they come up to the boat, and you are in for the thrill of your life when one comes close to the cage. There are many companies that offer shark dive excursions, so the best option is to Google shark diving and figure out which organisations offer the best prices.

Cape Town is home to an amazing array of sights, people, and customs, and these are just a few of the things you can see if you visit. In order to do everything you want, you would have to stay for months! To make the most of your trip, ask friends what they did on their travels, or look around travel forums on various websites. No matter what activities you decide on, you are sure to have fun!

Anthony recently completed his graduate education in English Literature. A New Mexico native, he currently resides and writes in Seattle, Washington. He writes primarily about education, travel, literature, and American culture.

(Image by annachok, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

Of course, there are many other tours available, but I thought it would be fun to introduce you to some of the rather more unusual ones that Cape Town offers its visitors.

Many cities offer a helicopter ride and Cape Town is no different with chopper trips around the peninsula. But you can add in a thrilling ride in an original war fighter jet or a Vietnam US Marine Corps Huey and experience a buzz of pure adrenalin that’s difficult to beat!

Try paragliding off Lion’s Head. Although it’s a relatively peaceful way of viewing the amazing Table Bay, launching yourself off the mountainside into the wide blue skies can be a little daunting, especially on the first attempt. However, tandem paragliding is a great way to first taste the thrill and exhilaration of free flight. No experience is required; all you need is confidence in your pilot and his abilities.

Somewhat less heart stopping are tours on four wheels; 4×4 tours that include a picnic and braai beneath Mopani trees are particularly popular. Or, maybe you want to consider a trike for your vehicle of choice?

Don’t forget the sparkling waters of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, as these offer perhaps the most extreme tours of them all: shark cage diving.

Being lowered into the icy depths to view the Great White Shark at close quarters has to count as one of the most adrenaline filled trips in the world. You can even capture it all on DVD to prove to all your friends you really did swim with sharks!

The thrill of the chase might be more up your street with a deep sea fishing expedition. Big game fishing is a popular pastime and you can expect to catch Tuna, Yellow Tail, Cape Salmon, Swordfish and, if you are very lucky, the rare Marlin or Dorado.

Another bonus with game fishing is being able to see the dolphins, Cape Fur seals, Mako and blue sharks that accompany the boats. Depending upon the time of year, you may also catch a glimpse of Southern Right, Humpback, Bryde’s and Killer whales (Orca), along with a host of sea birds tracking the boats and their activities.

And what else would you consider doing on the beach if you are not into sunbathing? Sand boarding; the best of both worlds – snowboarding and hot sun! Using specially adapted snowboards and sand dunes sculpted by the winds and wearing liberally applied sporting sun block you are ready to face the slopes.

For the full adrenaline fix why not combine sand boarding with skydiving?  Leap out of a plane at 10 000 feet and free fall for 25-30 seconds.  Now I think that has to be my ultimate pick!

By Helen Palmer, travel writer for ComeToCapeTown.com – Your ticket to Cape Town.

(Image by Rick McCharles from Calgary, Canada (Sand dune boarding, Peru) [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons)

The journey takes roughly two and a half hours from Cape Town, so an early morning start is advisable.  There is a picnic and braai area on the farm, so pack a picnic before you go. It’s also a good idea to take shopping bags because even though you get plastic containers at the entrance, these are awkward to carry, especially if you are planning on picking a lot of cherries.

A bucket or basket (lined with something to stop the cherries from getting bruised) is also a good idea. One year, I happened to be wearing a long skirt, which I found very useful for collecting the cherries. I stood at the top of the ladder holding the end of my skirt up with one hand and filling it with cherries with the other. I felt like a proper farmer woman.

There are 15 varieties of cherries to choose from: some are sweet, some are sour, some are bright red and some are maroon. Meander through the orchards and pick your way through cherry heaven. Bear in mind that cherries do not ripen once picked. If you can’t reach the ripe fruit at the top of a tree find one of the ladders lying around the orchard. Once you have finished picking, make your way down to the stall to pay. The cherries are charged by weight and the price/kg for the season is available on the farm website. There is also an entry fee perperson.

Even if you are not crazy about eating fresh cherries on their own, there are lots of delicious things that you can make with cherries. Some of my favourites are cherry syrup to go on pancakes, cherry cheesecake and cherries soaked in brandy. So make a date with this luscious, indulgent fruit and you will not be disappointed. On the way back, go through the Bainskloof Pass to end the day with a beautiful drive home.

(This is a post by Talia Mitrani)

(Image by aschaeffer, stock.xchng)

The Great Outdoors

An economical yet simple way to view Africa’s abundant marine life is snorkeling. All that’s needed to view the spectacular underwater world are a snorkel, pair of fins and face mask. Scuba diving is a bit more costly and travellers should not only be in physical shape, but should also be knowledgeable about the dangers of an undersea environment.

White water rafting is an activity that can be adventurous and tranquil, depending on the river. The elevated slopes of the Western Cape’s Doring River are for visitors who want a more expeditious pace. Travellers interested in a less demanding, more serene ride should choose to glide across the Orange River with its smooth quiet waters [editors note: some areas along the Orange River can be very wild and exciting, always check with a tour operator beforehand]. Most people can find enjoyment by spending the day rafting on peaceful waters regardless of their fitness level. However, those that want to take part in a more death defying experience should be physically fit. Whether the group selects fast moving, difficult waters, or something more peaceful and calm, they are sure to find white water rafting a fun and unforgettable experience.

Another great choice for visitors who love the great outdoors is horseback safaris. Saddle adventures are loads of fun for gents of all ages and fitness levels. It also offers an excellent way for travellers to get up close and personal with wild game. Novices will quickly gain confidence while those with more experience will find the activity fun and challenging.

In addition to the wide selection of water and athletic activities to experience in this breathtaking part of the word, visitors can also explore the vast number of landmarks and historical locations in the area. South Africa has something of interest for everyone to choose from making it the perfect location for fun stag weekends abroad.

So Much to Do

Visitors will find a wide variety of activities in any of the nine provinces of South Africa, some of which include hot air balloon rides, surfing, whale watching, fishing, hang gliding, mountain climbing, elephant safaris, abseiling and deep sea diving. The choices are endless, making South Africa the perfect setting for a stag celebration.

Some prime selections for the more sedate traveler include nature walks, bird-watching, snorkeling, or hot air ballooning. The country’s climate and bountiful scenery makes for an ideal activity like hot air ballooning. Not only does it require little physical exertion, but all one has to do is climb aboard and take in the beauty of the surrounding area. Afterwards, guests can enjoy a sumptuous brunch and chilled glass of champagne.

Those who are thinking about travelling to South Africa will be happy to find that there are many adventures to select from that are sure to suit everyone’s needs, no matter the age or fitness level. For example, travellers that fancy hiking can explore the vast number of nature trails that range from less challenging to the more experienced trails with mountainous landscapes and a more difficult terrain to navigate. Thrill seekers of any age won’t want to miss daring adventures like parachuting over the breathtaking scenery, riding the rapids, diving with the great white sharks or bungee jumping. Angler enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the peaceful streams filled with a bountiful array of trout.

Other great ideas for the ideal stag do celebration include the following African excursions:

Uganda Safaris: See the rare beauty of Uganda in its natural setting. Catch glimpses of game that include the giant forest hog, Rothschild Giraffe and Chimpanzees.

Safari from Lusaka (the capital of Zambia): Travel by air or road and lay witness to the greatest concentration of wildlife in all of Africa.

This is a guest article by Ruben Corbo, a writer for several websites like Red Seven Leisure, which is the best man’s choice in providing the best service for planning your stag do abroad vacations and more. When Ruben is not writing he is composing or producing music for short films and other visual projects.

(Images: Giraffe by Betsssssy, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

(Images: Mountain view by kudumomo, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

Years later, over supper one night with a friend, we decided to do a road trip and go bungy jumping. I still don’t know what came over me. Up until that point, I had never had any desire to jump off a bridge. She said, “I want to go bungy jumping” and I said, “Let’s do it.” And so we went.

Bloukrans Bridge is 40km outside Plettenberg Bay, on the way to Port Elizabeth. The N2 highway is fairly flat and runs along the foot of the mountain and then all of a sudden there’s this massive gorge created by the Bloukrans River. The bungy operation runs from a platform under the road bridge and at 216m is the highest commercial bungy bridge in the world.

After paying, we were led across the walkway that takes you from the side of the gorge to the bungy platform. It is designed to get your heart racing as it is made of grates, which allow you, or rather force you, to see all the way to the bottom of the gorge. I found this part terrifying almost to the point of inertia but managed to cross the walkway by repeating my phone number over and over to distract myself.

The bungy platform was a little more comforting, being made of solid concrete. The pumping music keeps your heart racing and the staff attend to you quickly. You are harnessed and then have to wait for your name to be called. Roll call runs in alphabetical order so I, unfortunately, had to wait a while. Whilst on the platform you cannot directly watch anyone free falling; you can only see them jumping off the platform and watch their freefall on a small TV screen. I think if I had been able to lean out and watch people free falling from such a height I never would have jumped.

Within in 2 minutes of my name being called I was strapped up and carried to the edge. I was instructed to put my toes over the edge and to keep my arms out to the side. I was looking straight ahead of me but curiosity killed the cat. I looked down at the river rushing below and was horrified by the height. Before the countdown I was warned that if I didn’t jump, I would be pushed – I never found out if this was true.

3, 2, 1, Bungy! I jumped off the edge and fell at an alarming rate, the sheer sides of the gorge rushing past me upside down. It takes seconds for you to reach the bottom – but that’s not all. Being the highest commercial bungy, you get your full money’s worth. Back up I flew and down again and up again like a giant swing, until I was stationary. Then, I hung upside waiting to be fetched. At last I was rescued by a guide who unclipped me and hoisted me back to freedom. When I got to the top, I felt thrilled to be alive. But after such an exhilarating experience, my appetite for doing anything crazy was cured for a long while.

(This is a post by our new intern Talia Mitrani)

(Image by Self (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-2.5], via Wikimedia Commons)

The Comrades Marathon

This ultra-marathon is 89 km or approximately 56 miles. This unforgiving race features five major hills known as “the big five” and a strict time limit of 12 hours. Those who don’t finish the race in 12 hours do not have their time recorded at all — it is as if they never ran the race. Despite its tough reputation, the Comrades Marathon draws runners of all stripes looking for a challenge and the opportunity to enjoy stunning views from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.

Two Oceans Marathon

Here’s another ultra-marathon — this one coming in at 56 km or almost 35 miles. An “easier” ultra-marathon, this race features a seven hour time limit and a route that passes both oceans surrounding South Africa – the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. The route includes stunning mountain scenery and a challenging climb up the Suikerbossie Pass.

The Table Mountain Challenge

This 35 km run (almost 22 miles — a few less than a full marathon) goes off road around South Africa’s famed flat top mountain and reaches heights of up to 1600 meters. Runners who aren’t up for the challenge of traversing the full length can compete in teams of three for individual legs of 8 or 17 km.

The Laborie Rock Run

Here’s another trail run, this time around the Paarl Rock Reserve. Several routes are available so that athletes can choose the appropriate difficulty for their skill level. Courses range from 10 km (just over 6 miles) to 20 km (12 and a half miles). Both courses are set on the Laborie Wine Estate, and all participants are given a complimentary bottle of wine upon entry.

There are many, many more races that take place in South Africa every year — all as varied as the scenery that the country has to offer. These are some of the more notable races, and those that draw in the biggest crowds and cultivate the most notoriety.

Have you had the chance to run a race in South Africa? What was your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments!

Erinn Stam is the Managing Editor for a website which provides nursing school requirements. She attends Wake Technical Community College and is learning about nursing schools in KY. She lives in Durham, NC with her lovely 4-year-old daughter and exuberant husband.

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If you are looking for a journey that will include a constant adrenalin rush, then the Congo is perfect. It is certainly not for those who enjoy sitting back with a cold beer in five star accommodation. If you are going to the Congo, then prepare yourself for spending lots of time with the locals, trying out new foods, and many bumpy jeep rides on the muddy roads.

Odzala National Park is one of Africa’s largest and least known tropical systems in which several pygmy villages and tribes reside. Nouabale-Ndoki and Dzanga-Ndoki National Parks are amongst the most fascinating, accessible rain forests in Africa, and the last of their kind on the planet. The parks only receive a handful of visitors each year, many of them scientists and film makers. You can certainly count yourself among the trail blazers should you decide to explore this remote destination.

French is the official language of Congo and hotels are situated in Pointe Noire, Brazzaville, and Djambala. Brazzaville is the capital of the Republic of Congo and tourists can find impressive buildings remnant of colonial architecture, such as the Basilique St Anne, the Temple Mosque, the National Museum and the imposing edifice of the mansion built for Charles de Gaulle. Pointe-Noire is considered as the holiday capital of Congo owing to its beautiful, untouched, non-spoiled and happily under populated beaches along the coastal belt of Cote Sauvage. Pointe-Noire comes alive in the evening when the locals come to the vibrant evening market for a good time. The Gorges of Diosso is also a great sightseeing expedition where you can see spectacular cliffs formed by the erosion of the sea and the wind.

The Congo remains largely unknown to outsiders, with little tourist infrastructure due to its recent six-year conflict, scaring off all but the most intrepid travelers. Always consult with your local Foreign and Commonwealth Office about which areas to avoid and what diseases are prevalent in each of the areas, including Brazzaville and Pointe Noire. It is essential to organize a trip with a tourist agency as this is not a developed country and is still conflict-ridden in certain parts.

(This is a post by our intern Ivelina Dineva)

(Image by See Source [CC-BY-2.5], via Wikimedia Commons)

The most popular cruise ports of call in Africa include Cape Town, Port Louis, Tunis, Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh & Marrakesh, with lots of activities available at every place you visit. Costa, MSC and Holland America are among the leading cruise lines currently operating African cruises. Home to the longest river and the biggest desert worldwide, Africa is a place longing to be explored, and what better way to work your way around this sumptuous continent than on board a luxury cruise ship? Here is our guide to the top 3 must-do activities during your African adventure.

1. Hermanus Trike Tour, Cape Town

This fantastic tour starts in the city, where you will meet up with your experienced guides and travel along the N2 towards the Strand. As you take in the wonderful beaches on the stretch towards Gordon’s Bay along the breathtaking Clarence Drive, you will be given the opportunity to stop for a drink or a light snack. The journey to Hermanus then continues with a sensational route that takes in Betty’s Bay, Pringle Bay and Kleinmond. Upon arriving in Hermanus, you will have the chance to experience the fine cuisine on offer before watching the whales from the shore! Further stop-off points include an old toll station on the Houwhoek Pass which boasts the oldest liquor licence in SA, and the summit of Sir Lowry’s Pass which offers incredible photo opportunities for all members of the tour, so be sure to remember your cameras!

2. Land of the Pharaohs Tour, Alexandria

This amazing full-day tour offers you the unique opportunity to see some of Egypt’s most famous monuments! Your unforgettable day begins with a visit to the Great Pyramids, the largest constructions ever built by man. You will view the Pyramids of Mycerinus and Chephren, as well as Egypt’s largest pyramid, The Great Pyramid of Cheops, which is made up of 2,300,000 limestone blocks! We recommend you also jump at the chance to explore the pyramid’s interior when the tour guides give you the word. Next up is a visit to the Sphinx, a large half-human statue just east of the Pyramid of Chephren. There are many urban myths surrounding this vast single-stone statue, such as who constructed it and when. The tour guides will also try their best to help with any other questions you may have! After having lunch at a nice local restaurant, you will see the ancient sites of Memphis and Sakkara, where you will find the oldest pyramid on earth!

3. Ile aux Cerfs Day Trip, Mauritius

Your unforgettable day-trip in the southern country of Mauritius begins in Trou d’Eau Douce, where you will board a speed boat and travel to Ile aux Cerfs. This beautiful island, situated off the east coast of Mauritius, really is paradise on earth and is the perfect setting for those of you who just want to enjoy a relaxing day in the glorious sunshine. You will be given the chance to take part in a number of watersports including snorkeling and scuba-diving, as well as various beach games taking place throughout the day. After a spot of lunch you will again travel by speed boat to the Grand River, where you will enjoy a close-up view of the south-east waterfalls. This is a moment that is sure to live long in the memory! The day is concluded with a beach BBQ back at Ile aux Cerfs, before heading back to mainland Mauritius at around 4pm.

Written by Ellis Green of LoveCruise.co.uk

(Images supplied by author)

Around the Cape Coast and in the waters off KwaZulu-Natal you can findthe bull shark, the strange and intriguing hammerhead, the tiger shark, and last but not least, the biggest and most formidable of them all, the great white shark. Between May and October South Africa may be the best place in the world to find large numbers of great whites.

The great white shark, also known as the white pointer, is a truly massive animal. The largest specimens measure about 6m or 20ft from tip to tail and they may weigh in at more than 2 metric tons.  They’ll eat more or less anything that comes their way. From fish to seals to seabirds to dolphins and other sharks, it’s all fair game. Of all the sharks that are known to attack humans they are considered the most dangerous.

For this reason, most divers who go looking for great whites use a shark cage. Tour operators are usually more than happy to open their cages to divers of all ability levels, so anyone who has basic scuba qualifications can get in the water with these magnificent creatures without the risk of becoming dinner. Some even welcome snorkellers, so if you can swim, you can swim with a great white. Despite the cage it’s an incredible experience – to be so close to such a large predator in the wild is an experience few can ever forget.

Under the right circumstances it’s possible to dive with hammerheads and other less aggressive (but equally impressive) sharks fairly safely without a cage. There are plenty of dive schools and scuba tour providers who can show visitors where to look for sharks and also give the less experienced a thorough grounding in how to behave around large predators and what to do if they get a little too interested.

Thankfully, these days we know a lot more about sharks than we did when Jaws made them into figures of terror for swimmers and non-swimmers alike. Even Peter Benchley (the creative mind behind the Jaws phenomenon) has become a champion of shark conservation. They are no longer regarded as mindless eating machines. Rather, they are now seen as sophisticated hunters and creatures remarkably well adapted to their environment, as they should be.

The hallmark of a good shark tour is understanding and respect. The best will offer information along with thrills but there is really no need for overblown descriptions of their ferocity or size – just seeing the shark is more than enough. If you don’t come out of the water fully believing that these terrifying but magnificent animals should be protected, you probably didn’t see a great white!

Jess Spate is a surfer, a diver and an underwater photography enthusiast. She has been in the water with several shark species over the years. Some of these encounters were planned and some not, but she has not been eaten yet.

(Image by Tim Sheerman-Chase, CC by 2.0, via Flickr)

There are six official trekking routes, namely: Marangu, Rongai, Lemosho, Shira, Umbwe, and Machame. Of all the routes, Machame is the most scenic while Rongai is the easiest as well as the least scenic route. Tanzania is well-known for its ideal climate suited for the growth of coffee, one of Tanzania’s best known export products. The belt of rain forest which encircles the mountain is found just above the lower coffee plantation area. Further up the surroundings change to heath and semi-desert moorland, which eventually turns to complete desert followed by alpine terrain where ice glaciers form a permanent part of the mountain.

Try not to go between March and May as that is when the highest rainfall occurs in the area. January, February and September are the best months for climbing as those are the drier months with fewer hikers. Temperatures range from between 25 to 30⁰ C at the foot of the mountain, to between 10 and 20⁰ at the summit. At 3000m and above the daily temperatures drop to between 5 and -15⁰ C, while the night time brings frost. Only everlasting flowers, mosses and lichens survive beyond 5000m as the landscape is predominantly rock and ice fields.

What makes this mountain popular amongst trekkers, or those seeking a challenge, is that it is technically easier to climb than the Himalayas or the Andes. With roughly 22,000 visitors attempting to the summit annually, hikers are not required to have mountaineering skills.  However, due to the high altitude, low temperatures, and occasional high winds, it still remains a tough expedition and roughly 40 per cent of people setting out to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro never do so. Luckily, with a reasonable level of fitness and correct preparation, the summit can be reached. After all, Frenchman Valtee Daniel reached the summit successfully at the age of 87.

Before embarking on the journey to Mt. Kilimnajro, always remember to do sufficient research and to rather go with a hiking group than alone.

(This is a post by our new intern Ivelina Dineva)

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Two Oceans Aquarium

Located at the famous Cape Town V&A Waterfront, which is also worth a visit, the aquarium offers a view of the great marine life of South Africa. From giant crabs, penguins, sharks to a kelp farm, Two Oceans has something for the whole family. It’s open seven days a week so no need to plan in advance, just make sure you don’t miss out on this one.

Walk or Climb to the top of Table Mountain

Probably the most well known landmark in South Africa, besides Nelson Mandela, Table Mountain is a true icon. A trip to South Africa will surely include a visit to the Mother City and it wouldn’t be complete without a walk up Table Mountain. What’s great is that it is free of charge to climb this sleeping giant. Sure, you may get a little tired, but once you get to the top you will see that it was all worth it. Just make sure you get some advice on which route to take up.

Visit a wine farm

What would a trip to South Africa’s Western Cape be without trying out some of the delicious wine on offer? Spier is a favorite with locals, offering panoramic views of the Helderberg Mountains, as well as the Eerste River. There is food and wine to be had, and you can take this opportunity to have a picnic. Soon you will see why so many people make it a must to tour the Western Cape Winelands

Johannesburg Zoo

Established back in 1904, the Johannesburg Zoo boasts a wide variety of animals. It will take you an entire day if not more to see all that it has to offer. From polar bears and gorillas to seals and snow leopards, Joburg Zoo has a lot to offer. The main attraction is the white lions, as the zoo is one of the few places in the world to have them. Joburg Zoo has also had success with breeding Siberian Tigers – who wouldn’t want to see that? There are restaurants all over and it is a great place for the whole family to spend the day together.

Cango Caves – Oudtshoorn

Next I would say it is time to see the beautiful Garden route. Possibly one of the most popular attractions in Oudtshoorn – the Cango Caves is a must. A trip into the heart of the earth, exploring the catacombs and seeing the ancient walls of the caves is superb. It will fill you with adrenaline and wonder at the same time, and is something you simply must experience.

Bloukrans Bridge walking tour

While travelling down one of South Africa’s national highways, you will come across the beautiful Plettenberg Bay – but don’t stop there, carry on until you hit the Bloukrans Bridge. This will be sure to get the adrenaline pumping, plus you can look at the fantastic views and watch some brave people do the highest commercial bungee jump in the world (take the leap if you feel like spending the extra cash).

Encounter big cats at The Cheetah Experience

If you are experiencing Africa on the cheap, then you need to head to Bloemfontein and encounter some of Africa’s big cats .The aim of this non-profit organisation is to create awareness and fund conservation. Getting up close with these animals will be worth your while. You are able to venture into their enclosures and, depending on how brave you are, even pat them.

Ride the Wave at Wave House Durban

While in Durban you’ll be sure to hit the beach and want to take in the sun and the surf, but why not ride the D-Rex. It is an artificial wave that brings people from all around Durban to master its endless barrel. There is also a tube ride and Tony Hawk designed skate park for all you action nuts. Riding the endless wave is something that all must try, but I must warn you – it’s not easy to master.

Sharks Board visit

Take a trip to the Shark Board in Durban – the only organisation of its kind in the world. Here you will be able to get a real insight into the life of a shark and what we can do to protect these majestic predators of the deep. Watch a video on sharks and then find out how a shark is examined to see their cause of death and what makes them tick.

Check out Seaview Game and Lion Park

Down to Port Elizabeth and as we know, South Africa is known for its superb wildlife viewing opportunities. The Seaview Game and Lion Park does not disappoint as there is a wide range of animals living in the park. This will give you those close encounters you have always dreamed of when thinking about Africa.

Cale Pissarra is an experienced online content writer and during his trip around South Africa he has covered articles about Pretoria Accommodation and followed the list of Things to Do in South Africa .

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Book Early:

When you plan the hotel you are going to stay at, you book early. The same goes for the car you rent. Reaching your destination to find there are no available cars in your price range may cause you to upgrade when you don’t need to. By booking your car early you can lock in the rental price, therefore if the lower class rentals are unavailable when you arrive, you may find a free or discounted upgrade. Most companies will lower the price rather than lose your business.

Shop around:

This is probably something you already do; however, there are many different ways of shopping around for rental cars. The first way is simply shopping the car rental companies and seeing which ones are offering specials, discounts, or just has the best base price. The other is looking at combo packages. By booking your hotel and rental car together you may find savings that are only offered to the travelers that book with that particular hotel. The same is said about flights. Some airlines will offer discounts on rental cars from partnered companies. Check all the combinations of packages to find the lowest price.

Inspect it fully:

When you first arrive to the rental company you are given a checklist for inspecting the car. Most people skirt this step and do a once over. Later they may find damage that was there before they rented and are now responsible for. When you are given this task, take your time and be sure to document all the damage you see. From small scratches to large dents, everything should be marked to avoid being billed for it later.

List all the drivers:

Nobody plans to have an accident, that’s why they are [called] accidents. When you are opting in for the rental insurance, be sure to list all the drivers. Even though the insurance will cost a few dollars more, if an accident does happen it will save you a lot of money, time and frustration.

Think about the miles:

Some companies offer unlimited local miles, and other have a maximum amount of miles they allow before charging a per mile rate. Look for a rental company that offers the unlimited miles to avoid extra charge. The best part of traveling is exploring new places, and exploring means you have no idea where you are going or how far. You can relax knowing you won’t go over the allotted amount of miles if you don’t have a maximum set.

Fill the tank:

When you rent the car you are instructed to return the car filled or with the same level of gas as when you got it. Most companies give the option for you to fill the tank or to have them fill it at a predetermined price. If you are confident that you will return it with almost a full tank, it may be cheaper to top it off with the last gallon of gas at the pump than paying their rate for the fill. If you are going to return it with almost an empty tank, their rate may be cheaper than the rate at the pump and you may save a few dollars.

Return it on time:

Most companies require you return the car before noon. If this is your agreement, be sure to return it on time to avoid being charged for an extra day you won’t need. This is one of the most common expenses travelers incur when renting a car.

Traveling is a great way to explore the world. With the cost of travel rising, lowering costs that you have control over can help keep your traveling budget on track. The less you pay for unnecessary expenses the more you can spend on enjoyment.

Renting a car for one day?  Ask the experts for special options in insurance coverage in the UK.  Marcie McDonald contributes advice on special insurance policy needs such as one day car insurance and even cheap over 60 car insurance, just to name a few.

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