tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75530587787112590162024-02-19T09:14:32.371-08:00Africa OverlandLucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-30802870608040349742010-08-25T21:30:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.177-07:00Travel Africa<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">The starting point to planning any holiday to Africa, </span><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">overland or independent is to not only realise but to attempt to comprehend that Africa is a continent not a country, and that Africa is a huge continent with very little infrastructure for travel.</span></span><br /><br />For this reason I promote overland trucks and tours in Africa rather than independent travel in most regions.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">The 3 main questions to answer are:</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://africaoverlandsafari.blogspot.com/2007/07/africa-where-when-to-go.html"><span style="font-family:arial;">Where do I want to travel in Africa?</span></a></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://africaoverlandsafari.blogspot.com/2007/07/when-to-go-to-africa.html">When to go to which country in Africa?</a></span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://africaoverlandsafari.blogspot.com/2007/07/overland-companies-who-to-go-with.html"><span style=";font-family:arial;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Which company do I want to travel with?(overland or tour)</span></span></a></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Lsh3Bf6PIYs"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Lsh3Bf6PIYs" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"></embed></object>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-8109556711517709982008-09-30T17:30:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.178-07:00Where to travel in Africa<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">Africa can be split into 4 basic regions, </span>Southern, Eastern, Western and Northern. Each of these cover an enormous land area and offer a variety of experiences.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">Southern Africa<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... comprises of <strong>Botswana</strong>, the land of water. The Okavango Delta and Chobe River offer game viewing like no other national park while Lake Malawi in <strong>Malawi</strong> is for those wanting to unwind and relax. <strong>Namibia</strong>’s Sossusvlei sand dunes and skeleton coast are a scenic wonderland for photographers while the cosmopolitan <strong>South Africa</strong> is also home to Kruger National Park and the Drakensburg mountain range. <strong>Zimababwe</strong> and <strong>Zambia</strong> share claim to the remarkable Victoria Falls, one of the seven Natural wonders of the world and adrenalin junky activities that go with it.<br /><br />Southern Africa is accessible to all, facilities range from basic to extremely luxurious with everything in between. Whilst distances are still vast and public transport still haphazard, the roads are in better condition, phones work, internet access is possible, everything is more 20th century and less rustic than its Eastern neighbour.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Eastern Africa</span><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... has basic facilities and infrastructure, most safaris are camping, hot running water is rare, the stars are amazing and this is an experience nowhere else in the world can come close to offering! A real once in a lifetime. Lovers of the great outdoors will love Eastern Africa.<br /><br />If camping and the great outdoors are not for you and you’re not flush with cash, don’t plan a trip to Eastern Africa. (If you do have a bit more cash to spend there are safari lodges in all the national parks, contact me direct or see Kumuka's lodge based itineraries.)<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-family: georgia;font-size:180%;" >Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda<br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... offer the most spectacular, well known game reserves – The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Masai Mara and of course the Gorillas in the mist . They are large countries whose main tourist attractions are not only many miles apart but the roads that link them are in very poor condition. Beaches and culture are also extremely popular in East Africa, from the ancient Masai tribes to the exotic spices and beaches of <strong>Zanzibar</strong> Island, this area has it all.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">Northern Africa<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia are the most popular tourist destinations.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">Western Africa<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong> …coming soonLucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-10207175840538926222007-09-05T18:48:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:50:43.632-07:00Questions & CommentsLucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-30960524490815153442007-08-27T02:59:00.000-07:002008-12-10T11:00:39.864-08:00Thank you ...Thank you for submitting your details.<br /><br />A consultant will return your query as a priority.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVRkss69HvoqD9xwVYI_PoOBWLvywDs6TZlPvRd4Rk7gx1iZ6AeNRzVbgEW2d5H5zQ_6edwJ5gGflInfMVvyXu3V2O44W8LT7TkP1tsN3krcbE7mPDnnBCIrzOfNkz-vMxzRDGDeD17Nyw/s1600-h/spacer.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVRkss69HvoqD9xwVYI_PoOBWLvywDs6TZlPvRd4Rk7gx1iZ6AeNRzVbgEW2d5H5zQ_6edwJ5gGflInfMVvyXu3V2O44W8LT7TkP1tsN3krcbE7mPDnnBCIrzOfNkz-vMxzRDGDeD17Nyw/s400/spacer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5103331150120348434" border="0" /></a>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-73147500401426723012007-08-23T17:12:00.000-07:002007-09-19T18:49:42.297-07:00Gecko & PeregrineGecko and Peregrine are owned by the same company. Gecko offer the cheaper camping style safaris while Peregrine offer the higher end, more personalised safari options.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>For a discount on all Gecko and Peregrine safaris and travel insurance, please contact us or simply fill in the form below<br /></strong></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email:</span> info@LujoTravel.com <br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ph/Fax:</span> 07) 5657 7037 (in Australia)<br /></li></ul>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-55310470488483061852007-08-20T23:25:00.000-07:002007-09-19T18:43:37.598-07:00Discounts<span style="font-size:130%;"><span>For discounts on an African safaris and 20% discount on travel insurance</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">...<br /><br /></span><span>Please contact Lucy Joyce by email, phone or fax or simply fill in the form below.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email: </span><span>info@LujoTravel.com</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ph/Fax: </span><span>07) 5657 7037 (in Australia)</span></span></li></ul>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-32960447063505913612007-08-17T18:17:00.000-07:002008-12-10T11:00:40.089-08:00Mt Kilimanjaro<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLh8QlGVzM23qSO7i-3E4yj6LCxPwTX_kztOu04do5ie7hDLCuVerJkq_M2YT1vs4qTMmqP2JQLaX7IKEZMqIuf71ZV0hTrcOqdBBy5PnmK2QZhnThDD2a6OcTNxzOZ86VXB8RrUmGYNdw/s1600-h/kilimanjaro_map.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099844654583245042" style="float: left; width: 277px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLh8QlGVzM23qSO7i-3E4yj6LCxPwTX_kztOu04do5ie7hDLCuVerJkq_M2YT1vs4qTMmqP2JQLaX7IKEZMqIuf71ZV0hTrcOqdBBy5PnmK2QZhnThDD2a6OcTNxzOZ86VXB8RrUmGYNdw/s400/kilimanjaro_map.gif" border="0" /></a>Mt Kilimanjaro, towering above the East African plains at 5895 metres above sea level, is the largest free-standing mountain in the world. With its classical conical shape it is also the largest mountain in the world that can be climbed by a non-technical climber.<br /><br />To reach the summit you will trek through a variety of vegetation zones including rainforest, open moorland and alpine desert.<br /><div><br />Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa. It lies close to the equator, yet snow, ice and glaciers are to be found on its highest slopes. It provides incredible views of hundreds of square kilometres of surrounding countryside - thousands of feet below - as well as of the mountain peaks, valleys and glaciers.</div><div><br />There are a number of different routes to climb Mt Kilimanjaro, the main routes are the Machame Route, Marangu Route and the Rongai Route.</div><br /><div><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Machame Route<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... is more difficult but more scenic than the Marangu route. </div><br /><div><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">The Marangu Route<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... has huts to stay in; all other routes must camp in tents. Both of these have quite high levels of people traffic. The <strong>Rongai Route</strong> has less traffic, the scenery is slightly better and the trek easier than on the Marangu route, the Rongai route is not quite as scenic as the Machame route as about the same level of difficulty.<br /><br /><strong>Kumuka uses the Marangu Route</strong>, the only route on Mt Kilimanjaro that has huts to stay in. Set off through the rainforest of the lower slopes, through open moorlands before reaching the snow line. The view from the crater rim is nothing short of spectacular, and on a clear day it is possible to see the curvature of the earth. Kumuka works with a local operator who works towards better conditions for the porters and guides, as well as conservation of the area.</div><div><br /><strong>Gecko adventures also uses the Marangu Route</strong> utilising mountain huts along the way and most importantly, buiding in an acclimitisation day which is able to more than double your chances of reaching the summit. You will be supported by an experienced mountain guide and a team of porters, all backed by the Kilimanjaro Porters Protection Group. So get out your gaitors, store up your stamina and prepare yourself to stand atop Africa’s greatest mountain to watch the sun rise over the African plains.</div><div><br /><strong>Peregrine adventures uses a combination of routes</strong>, on the way up your nights are spent in tents on the <strong>Machame route</strong>; however on the descent you join the <strong>Mweka route</strong>, spending one night in this area (but still using our own tents). The thrill of reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro gives one an unsurpassed sense of achievement. The Machame Route is a day longer than the standard trail - add an extra day to the standard itinerary to provide important additional time for acclimatisation as this may well increase your chances of summiting.</div><div></div><div><strong>Bench International uses the Rongai Route.<br /><br /></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">For discounts and bookings please email us or simply fill in the form below </span><br /></span></strong><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong><a href="mailto:info@LujoTravel.com">info@LujoTravel.com</a></strong></span></li></ul></div>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-42497208900353366302007-08-12T01:39:00.001-07:002007-09-19T18:47:25.294-07:00Dragoman<span style="font-size:130%;">For a <strong>discount</strong> on all Dragoman trips please contact us or simply fill in the form below</span><br /><ul><li><strong>Email:</strong> <a href="mailto:info@LujoTravel.com">info@LujoTravel.com</a></li><li><strong>Ph/Fax:</strong> +61 7 5657 7037</li></ul>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-44866349954658115602007-08-12T01:18:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.183-07:00Botswana<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">Botswana is a land of water... </span>and elephants. <strong>Chobe River National Park </strong>is most easily accessible from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia. The Chobe River National park entrance is only about 30 minutes drive from the border of Zimbabwe.<br /><br />The town of Kasane in the North of Botswana is the closest town to the national park. There are a number of beautiful lodges to stay on the river if you have the time to stay a night you would not be dissapointed, otherwise day trips are still excellent and worthwhile.<br /><br />The Okavango Delta is the main drawcard of Botswana. Flying into Maun in the South of Botswana is the easist way to access the Okavango Delta. The Chobe river and many others feed into the Delta, an inland sea and one of the most amazing wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Game viewing is done on Mokoro's (small dugout canoes), power boats, walking safaris and vehicles.<br /><br />Unlike most game areas of Africa, the Okavango Delta is best visited when water levels are at there highest, June through to October. Extremely large concentrations of elephants and other animals are drawn to the water as there usual grazing grounds dry up.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left center; height: 194px; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/ChobeRiverBotswanaAfrica2007"><img src="http://lh3.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrBre76gvlE/AAAAAAAAA1c/DHo9H4RDCrc/s160-c/ChobeRiverBotswanaAfrica2007.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0pt 0pt 4px;" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="text-align: center; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/ChobeRiverBotswanaAfrica2007" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Chobe River, Botswana, Africa 2007. Click here to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-2755271456105191432007-08-09T17:27:00.001-07:002008-12-10T11:00:40.364-08:00Southern Africa Tourist Attractions<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AjdOe-JUSzPY_sUsUIXJvBNwK0yW8jk7ZFXzHl64u9CD0ofqsYqlkQA3h4Xe9xqDzgLILFhFNbK2lrwacLkZ3Kac8uZJ-jCJmwIKOYZbUaayvTZQLa66XXz-E_uOl1ZgzWTPajlN5dYK/s1600-h/Southern_Africa.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AjdOe-JUSzPY_sUsUIXJvBNwK0yW8jk7ZFXzHl64u9CD0ofqsYqlkQA3h4Xe9xqDzgLILFhFNbK2lrwacLkZ3Kac8uZJ-jCJmwIKOYZbUaayvTZQLa66XXz-E_uOl1ZgzWTPajlN5dYK/s400/Southern_Africa.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096862166085059938" border="0" /></a></div>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-91230563572909783832007-08-09T17:25:00.001-07:002008-12-10T11:00:40.577-08:00Eastern Africa Tourist Atrractions<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXyLkGHzoW88mMxZ6l-D_vso0TGTMctjBXkCW7lQ4kAt8CXahQgY8H44X065KuL0UzYVj4R_74NWJ9TzIBfOaF9I-rkWwlX23_8KVFppv5zKMEdQxHOBslGyQL5XLg91jORv8pS6tBOkf/s1600-h/Eastern_Africa.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXyLkGHzoW88mMxZ6l-D_vso0TGTMctjBXkCW7lQ4kAt8CXahQgY8H44X065KuL0UzYVj4R_74NWJ9TzIBfOaF9I-rkWwlX23_8KVFppv5zKMEdQxHOBslGyQL5XLg91jORv8pS6tBOkf/s400/Eastern_Africa.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096861697933624658" border="0" /></a></div>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-77279914803559179112007-08-08T20:10:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.185-07:00AccommodationEach overland safri company has its own prefernce for hotels to stay in prior to trip departure. These are sometimes based on ease of truck parking as opposed to the best place for you to stay ina city, especially if you are there a couple of days before or after the trip. Companies will pick you up from any hotel or arrange for you to get a taxi to them. Even if you are doing a budget safari you may wish for a little bit more luxury in your accommodation when you first arrive and are sufferring jet lag from an overnight plane trip.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.octopustravel.com/au/Enter.jsp?siteid=dive"><span style="color:#000000;">For a wide range of hotels to choose from and book online please</span> <strong>click here</strong> </a>or email us at <a href="mailto:info@LujoTravel.com">info@LujoTravel.com</a> for more information, sugggestions or to arrange airport transfers.Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-90702383417252470142007-08-01T19:01:00.000-07:002007-09-19T18:46:14.616-07:00Kumuka<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">A fantastic company offering the best array of trips. </span>Not only do Kumuka offer the full range of itineraries and dates but they compete on price for camping trips as well as offering more expensive lodge safari options and family trips.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Click on the link below to see a full range of Kumuka itineraries or to book online.</strong><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Please contact </strong><a href="mailto:info@LujoTravel.com"><strong>info@LujoTravel.com</strong></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong> for more information, hotels and transfers or simply fill in the form below.</strong></span><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kumuka.com/african-adventures.aspx?affid=LUCOM061204"><img alt="Kumuka Worldwide African Adventures" src="http://www.kumuka.com/images/affiliates/AF_banner.gif" border="0" /></a></div>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-7862983874663101412007-08-01T18:55:00.001-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.187-07:00HealthThere are a number of health issues to consider before travelling to and once in Africa. Before travelling, please consult a travel health specialist, information on this website is not medical advice.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-family: georgia;">Before travelling:</span><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />A number of <strong>vaccinations</strong> are generally needed - Hepatitis A and B, Polio and Tetanus. Some areas of Africa require Yellow Fever vaccinations, this one comes with a medical booklet to prove you have been vaccinated and some countries (including returning home) may refuse your entry if you cannot produce the proof of vaccination.<br /><br /><strong>Malaria</strong> is the other major medical issue to discuss with your doctor/ travel health specialist. There are a number of prophylactic tablets, these do not prevent you getting malaria but suppress the symptoms so you hopefully do not get very sick before reaching proper medical treatment. There are also tablets you can carry with you as self treatment until you reach medical assistance. If you are at all concerned you have contracted malaria go to a medical centre and get a blood test, the first screener for malaria is a simple finger prick for blood. Even small village ‘medical centres’ are generally well equipped to diagnose and treat malaria. The key to treating malaria is to catch it early, the longer you have malaria before treating it the worse it is.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Medical issues while in Africa</span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong><ul><li><strong>Water</strong> - In the main tourist areas bottled water is easy to buy. It is probably worthwhile taking water purification tablets or filters if you are going to be off the beaten track at all. Some tour companies provide drinking water, check with however you book with.</li><li><strong>HIV and STD</strong>– If you are going to be sexually active while on holidays remember that the incidence of HIV is extremely high in Africa and take precautions to prevent any sexually transmitted diseases.</li><li><strong>First Aid</strong> – It is worth taking a basic first aid kit with you including clean syringes, bandaids, antiseptic creams, bandages, scissors, tweezers, anti diarrhoea and vomiting tablets, re-hydration sachets etc.</li><li><strong>Infections</strong> - If you do have a cut make sure it is washed in clean water and kept clean, use plenty of antiseptic, infections can become nasty very quickly.</li></ul>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-86453647881546411052007-08-01T18:54:00.001-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.188-07:00Visas<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">Visa requirements are different for each African country depending on your nationality. </span>Visa requirements are also subject to change so make sure you check with the embassy/ high commission in your country before travelling.<br /><br />Many travel agents will arrange all your visas for you for a small fee, a service well worth considering if you don’t have lots of spare time on your hands to fill out forms, get bank cheques, self addressed envelopes etc etc.<br /><br />Many countries allow you to get visas at the border or airport. This can sometimes be cheaper than getting it before you go however lines at airports and borders for those needing visa can be hours longer than those with visas.<br /><br />Useful links to embassies coming soon…Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-37219788266218520122007-08-01T17:17:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:58:39.997-07:00Zimbabwe and Zambia<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">Victoria Falls spans across the border of Zimbabwe of Zambia. </span>The town of Victoria Falls itself is on the Zimbabwe side, Livingstone, in Zambia now also offers all the tourist activities that Victoria Falls offers from Zambia.<br /><br />The Victoria Falls themself are only a part of what Victoria Falls town, has to offer. Victoria Falls has become to Africa what Queenstown is to New Zealand. An adrenalin junky paradise. There are also many activities for those seeking animals and scenery rather than an adrenalin rush.<br /><br />Shearwater and Wild Horizons are the two main tourist operators in Victoria Falls and both offer a variety of adrenalin and safri packages and will pick you up from any hotel in Victoria Falls for transfers to activities.<br /><br /><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; height: 194px;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/VictoriaFallsWalkZimbabweAfrica2007"><img style="margin: 1px 0px 0px 4px;" src="http://lh3.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrBxI76gwsE/AAAAAAAAA1Q/0F4L_lQcJQw/s160-c/VictoriaFallsWalkZimbabweAfrica2007.jpg" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 11px; font-family: arial,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-decoration: none;" href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/VictoriaFallsWalkZimbabweAfrica2007">Victoria Falls Walk, Zimbabwe, Africa 2007. Click here to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; height: 194px;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/VictoriaFallsHelicopterZimbabweAfrica2007"><img style="margin: 1px 0px 0px 4px;" src="http://lh3.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrBoq76gvPE/AAAAAAAAA1Y/V_eqD-V00rY/s160-c/VictoriaFallsHelicopterZimbabweAfrica2007.jpg" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 11px; font-family: arial,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-decoration: none;" href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/VictoriaFallsHelicopterZimbabweAfrica2007">Victoria Falls, Helicopter<wbr>, Zimbabwe, Africa 2007. Click here to see more phtos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; height: 194px;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/SunsetCruiseZameziRiverZimbabweAfrica2007"><img style="margin: 1px 0px 0px 4px;" src="http://lh5.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrByOb6gw9E/AAAAAAAAAzc/FMethFhJ9S4/s160-c/SunsetCruiseZameziRiverZimbabweAfrica2007.jpg" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 11px; font-family: arial,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-decoration: none;" href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/SunsetCruiseZameziRiverZimbabweAfrica2007">Sunset Cruise, Zamezi River, Zimbabwe, Africa 2007. Click here to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; height: 194px;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/WalkWithTheLionsVictoriaFallsZimbabweAfrica2007"><img style="margin: 1px 0px 0px 4px;" src="http://lh6.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrBvWr6gwVE/AAAAAAAAAzo/SbZLqni0qtM/s160-c/WalkWithTheLionsVictoriaFallsZimbabweAfrica2007.jpg" height="160" width="160" /></a><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/WalkWithTheLionsVictoriaFallsZimbabweAfrica2007"></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 11px; font-family: arial,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-decoration: none;" href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/WalkWithTheLionsVictoriaFallsZimbabweAfrica2007">Walk with the Lions, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Africa 2007. Click here to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-35879443526779772442007-07-31T22:54:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:57:26.592-07:00Kenya's National Parks<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Lake Nakuru</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />This small national park is only about 5hrs drive north-west of Nairobi and on the itinerary of most overland trips through Kenya Tanzania. While a day is probably enough to spend here there are two major attractions flamingos and rhinoceros. Baboon cliff is a lovely lunch spot offering a great view over the Lake. One of the lovely things about Lake Nakuru National Park is the lack of crowding. It offers a much more relaxed feel then the big parks, whilst offering spectacular game viewing.<br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Wildlife</span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span><br />The flamingo migration brings thousands of flamingos to coat the shoreline in a wave of pink around July, August. You can get out of your vehicle and walk down to the lake shore for some wonderful photographs, just be careful to keep your distance from the buffaloes that also graze along the lakeshore.<br /><br />Both white and black rhinoceros reside in the park and sightings are very common. Lake Nakuru is probably your best chance of seeing rhinoceros in the wild anywhere in Africa.<br /><br />A small herd of hippo are usually also found on the Northern shore and warthogs, baboons and waterbuck are also common. There is a chance of seeing leopards and if you are extremely lucky you might see the rare tree climbing lion. Giraffes are also present and as a number of antelope and birds.<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><table style="margin-left: auto; width: 194px; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left 50%; height: 194px; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com.au/LujoTravel/LakeNakuruKenyaAfrica2007"><img style="margin: 1px 0px 0px 4px;" src="http://lh6.google.com.au/LujoTravel/RrAsur6grzE/AAAAAAAAAKM/Qe-GqchLYH0/s160-c/LakeNakuruKenyaAfrica2007.jpg" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 11px; font-family: arial,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(77, 77, 77); text-decoration: none;" href="http://picasaweb.google.com.au/LujoTravel/LakeNakuruKenyaAfrica2007">Lake Nakuru, Kenya - Africa 2007. Click here to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-41665712815097975862007-07-31T22:50:00.000-07:002007-09-19T18:51:35.196-07:00Kenya's National Parks<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Masai Mara</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />The Masai Mara covers 1510 sq km of mainly savannah. It is named for both the Masai tribe that inhabit the area and the Mara River which divides it. The Masai Mara is famous and popular for the same reasons as the Serengeti, its exceptional population of game and the annual migration of thewildebeest every August, a migration so immense it is called the Great Migration.<br /><br />You are more likely to see endless columns of wildebeest and zebra grazing or trudging along the plains than the dramatic TV style river crossings. The problem with being here at this time of year is that there is almost as many cars and trucks full of people as there are wildebeest and zebra. This overcrowding is also leading to major environmental damage as drivers of tourist vehicles continually form new tracks trying to get there customers the best view. Please encourage your driver not to do this, even if it means you are not in the perfect spot for your photo!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Wildlife</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>As well as wildebeest and zebra, lions are almost guaranteed to be seen and there are many more hippos here than in the Serengeti. The plains are also home to the distinctive Masai giraffe as well as the common giraffe. Numerous antelope can be found, including Thomson's and Grant's gazelle, impala, topi and hartebeest. Spotted hyena, leopard and cheetah are also in the park as well as a great array of birds including vultures, marabous, secetary birds, hornbills, ostrich, pgymy flacons and eagles.<br /><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left center; height: 194px; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/SerengetiNationalParkTanzaniaAfrica2007"><img src="http://lh5.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrA0Qb6gswE/AAAAAAAAA0A/6KBUJu5JMyU/s160-c/SerengetiNationalParkTanzaniaAfrica2007.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0pt 0pt 4px;" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="text-align: center; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/SerengetiNationalParkTanzaniaAfrica2007" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Masia Mara National Park, Kenya, Africa 2007. Click to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-71164393868987642942007-07-31T22:45:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:58:17.521-07:00Tanzania's National Parks<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">Serengeti National Park</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />The Serengeti is know as the “land of endless plains” to the local people and you can see why even before you enter the park. The park covers 14,763km² of grassland plains and savannah as well as riverine forest and woodlands. The flat, vast space is something you cannot be prepared for, in the savannah, kopjes (small rock formations) and animals are about the only things that break up the huge savannah landscape.<br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Wildlife</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>The Serengeti is probably the best chance to see all Big 5 in one national park. Lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, cheetah and buffalo all reside here. Rhino and leopard are probably the hardest to spot. While the big 5 remain the key attractions to tourists, but the park also hosts giraffe and gazelle as well as a large and varied bird population including vultures, eagles and lilac crested rollers.<br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ejvffI8tSEg"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ejvffI8tSEg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><strong>The “Great Migration”</strong> of zebra and wildebeest is the other main attraction for visitors to the Serengeti. Starting anytime from late July through to September, over one million white bearded wildebeest and 200,000 zebra follow the green grass leaving the dry behind as they move from the southern Serengeti through the Western corridor into the Masai Mara before returning to the Serengeti once more. The timing for migration depends purely on the rainfall; even though you are unlikely to see the TV style version of wildebeest and zebra lined up waiting to cross riverbeds full of crocodiles, if you are there between August and October you should see literally thousands of wildebeest and zebras grazing and moving around the plains.<br /><br /><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left center; height: 194px; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/SerengetiNationalParkTanzaniaAfrica2007"><img src="http://lh5.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrA0Qb6gswE/AAAAAAAAA0A/6KBUJu5JMyU/s160-c/SerengetiNationalParkTanzaniaAfrica2007.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0pt 0pt 4px;" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="text-align: center; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/SerengetiNationalParkTanzaniaAfrica2007" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, Africa 2007. Click to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-85748953028707941132007-07-31T22:42:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:58:17.522-07:00Tanzania’s National Parks<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Ngorongoro Crater</span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />The Ngorongoro Crater is actually a conservation area (since 1959) rather than a national park. This distinction does not really mean anything to the tourist but for the locals it means that the Masai tribe can continue to graze their livestock in the area as they have always traditionally done. Yes, that means they graze their cattle on the same grass the lions live in. As one person put it “Sometimes the Masai kill the lion, sometimes the lion kill the Masai.” The area became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. There are an estimated 25,000 animals within the crater.<br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lQe8zDm6rio"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lQe8zDm6rio" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><strong><br /></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">Wildlife</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************<br /></span></span>The “Big 5” all reside in the crater however the chances of seeing them all here are rare. There is a dense population of lions in the area so get ready to tick then off the list. Hyenas and jackals are also common, leopards are also around but always elusive, while Cheetahs rarely frequent the crater itself. The main wildlife you will see are buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, bucks, gazelles, hartebeest and eland.<br /><br /><table style="width: 194px; text-align: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="background: transparent url(http://picasaweb.google.com/f/img/transparent_album_background.gif) no-repeat scroll left center; height: 194px; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="center"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/NgororngoroCraterTanzaniaAfrica2007"><img src="http://lh5.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/RrAwkb6gsOE/AAAAAAAAA0I/02jlwrKu7zo/s160-c/NgororngoroCraterTanzaniaAfrica2007.jpg" style="margin: 1px 0pt 0pt 4px;" height="160" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="text-align: center; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/LujoTravel/NgororngoroCraterTanzaniaAfrica2007" style="color: rgb(77, 77, 77); font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Ngororngor<wbr>o Crater, Tanzania Africa 2007. Click here to see more photos.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />There are a few black rhino in the area but the likelihood of you seeing them is very rare. Hippos are also in limited numbers and while you will most likely eat lunch by the edge of ‘hippo pools’ and see the backs of a few like rocks in the water, this is about all the viewing of hippos you are likely to get in the crater. Elephants are in the crater but they prefer to live up on the rim, it is mainly sole bull elephants that make the trip down the crater edge to feast on the fertile land.Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-42694056944730876312007-07-31T19:13:00.000-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.195-07:00When to go to Africa?Recognising the size of the African continent you should of course realise that it spans many climatic zones and varies enormously depending what region you are in. The equator runs through the north of Kenya, through Uganda and on onto the West.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Southern Africa</span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>April through to August is the most pleasant time with warm sunny days and chilly clear nights. The Northern regions of Southern Africa are best avoided from November to March due to rain and heat.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-family: georgia;font-size:180%;" >Eastern Africa</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>If you are visiting to see game then the dry season is when you want to be there, July to September is the dry season and best chance of seeing the wildebeest and zebra migration. Locals seem to be indicating that weather patterns are changing and that the dry is not really starting until August and continuing to October.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Northern Africa</span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>Egypt, best time to visit is winter -October to March. Even in winter the temperatures can hit the 80’s (30 C) so definitely avoid summer – May to August. Morocco peak season is summer - July & August, travelling June or September would be better to avoid crowds.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Western Africa</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>coming soon ... please check backLucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-55073734634381788582007-07-30T17:28:00.002-07:002007-09-05T18:57:54.504-07:00Overland Companies - Who to go with<p>On paper it can be difficult to distinguish one overland company from another. Itineraries, costs, trucks, service and equipment can all appear the same in brochures and on websites. There are however some small subtle differences which separate the companies from good to excellent.</p><p><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://africaoverlandsafari.blogspot.com/2007/07/itineraries-what-to-look-for.html"><strong>(Click here to see the “Itineraries - What to look for?” section.)</strong></a><br /><a href="http://aftravel.blogspot.com/2007/07/itineraries-what-to-look-for.html"><strong></strong></a><br /></div><p>Most overland companies are priced in the budget range and are aimed at young travellers (18 -28). Companies such as Kumuka and Dragoman recognise older (25-35) travellers also want to see Africa. They separate their trips into specialty areas so you can more easily select the trip that is right for you. In doing so you are also more likely to have like minded people on your truck. Kumuka and Dragoman are the two most respected, value for money, overland companies in Africa.<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Kumuka </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... offer the standard overland safaris which attract young people but seem to avoid the party crowd and trips are enjoyable for a wider age range (18-35). They also offer Family and Lodge based safaris.<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Dragoman </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... splits their trips into 5 categories. Encounter is the standard, young traveller camping, budget overlander. Escape trips have more staff, a little more luxury and are a little more expensive than then Encounter trips. They generally mix hotels and camping and may attract a slightly older crowd than the Encounter. Discover trips generally include community project works with tourist sites. Family trips are self explanatory and Ultimate trips are for the serious traveller with plenty of time to see it all.<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Guerba </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... has a reputation for being a bit of a party truck. If you are young and looking for a party atmosphere mixed with seeing Africa then Guerba could be for you.<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Intrepid </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... has combined services with Guerba, Intrepid run the more luxurious trips with smaller groups (max 12 passengers).<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Gecko </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... and Peregrine also work together with Gecko offering the cheaper, younger crowd and Peregrine supporting the older more luxurious trips.<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Peregrine </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... offers groups as small as 4 - 7. Safaris may be entirely in 4wd safari vehicles rather than on an overland truck. This makes driving times quicker allowing more time at the sites, in the national parks. The trips are about 3-4 times more expensive than overlanders but if you have the money, go for it.</p><p><br /><strong style="font-family: georgia;"></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >African Trails </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... is one of the cheapest but reports from travellers are favourable, it is the money rather than age that guides the customers on this trip however cheap often leads to youth which often leads to partying.<br /><br /><strong></strong><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Oasis </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... is the main Trans - Africa specialist. Personally if you want to travel the entire of Africa I would rather split it up and get on and off different trucks and trips and have some independent travel in between. Perhaps even fly between some destinations rather than sit driving through every country.</p><br /><br /><p><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">For discounts and to book with any of these companies please contact </span></strong><a href="mailto:info@LujoTravel.com"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">info@LujoTravel.com</span></strong></a></p>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-10386945701800901892007-07-30T17:28:00.001-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.196-07:00Itineraries - What to look for?<p><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">On paper it can be difficult to distinguish one Africa safari overland company from another.</span> Itineraries, costs, trucks, service and equipment can all appear the same in brochures and on websites. There are however some small subtle differences between safaris which separate the companies from good to excellent.</p><p><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://africaoverlandsafari.blogspot.com/2007/07/overland-companies-who-to-go-with.html">(Click here to see the “Overland companies overview” section.)</a></strong><br /><strong></strong></div><p><br />Everyone has different priorities for their African safari so the importance you place on each of these issues is up to you. Things you may like to consider are:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">The number of passengers</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>Smaller groups are better for wildlife viewing, cultural experiences and border crossings. However some people may like to travel in a larger group for more social interaction.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">The staff</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>Most trips have at least a driver and guide. The quality of guide varies, some companies only expect the guide to ensure the trip runs according to plan, other trips have local or experienced guides who know about the country, it people and culture. Kumuka and Dragoman offer quality guides, local when possible. A designated cook can make a big difference to a trip, trips without a cook mean that you are at the mercy of the passengers on the trip to cook, you may get lucky… or not.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Itineraries</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>In the summary or highlights description of the trip there may be no difference between companies. Look at the detailed trip notes as it is the time spent in national parks and on game drives that make a trip more expensive for operators and more enjoyable for you. Always check how many nights are spent in national parks? How many game drives do you do and are they all day or only morning or afternoon? Are game drives on smaller 4wd safari vehicles or are they all on the overland truck? Going to fewer places may be more rewarding as you may need to spend more time enjoying the places and less time on the road getting to places. That being said, most African safaris entail long drives.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Trucks</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>Some have seats facing forward like on a bus while others have seats lining the wall facing inward like on military vehicles. If the seats face in everyone has plenty of leg room and a window, they just have to turn backwards and kneel on their seat. Bus like seats mean windows are shared, as long as they are only 2 abreast that’s generally ok. The windows on these trucks are often individual glass windows as opposed to the sideway seat trucks which usually have a wind up plastic side as a window so it’s all or nothing. Bus like seats tend to make passengers sit in the same place all the time, sideways seats seem to make people shift around and sit next to different people, take turns being at the bumpy back. Most have CD players, books, lights, lockers, a safe etc. Some have a fridge that you can put your own drinks in, a big bonus if you like a cold beer at the end of the day although most campsites now have bars. </p>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-65456990311052665992007-07-30T17:24:00.004-07:002007-09-05T18:57:33.119-07:00National Parks of East Africa<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Eastern Africa</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... is home to some of the most vast, expansive national parks. Most of these are sprawling, savannah habitats and therefore home to many lions, leopards and cheetahs. Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, hippo, rhino, zebra and wildebeest are also in huge numbers. The chance of seeing the Big 5 in one trip are highest here.<br /><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">The Big 5 </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... consists of Lion, Leopard, Rhinoceros, Elephant and Buffalo.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" >Environmental Impact</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>It is possible to see lions and cheetahs hunting in the parks, especially the Serengeti and Masai Mara however the number of tourist vehicles watching the hunt often leads to vehicles getting in the way of the hunt and the animal therefore going unfed. It is believed that this is actually leading to a decrease in the numbers of big cats, particularly cheetahs. Whilst it is exciting to watch please be mindful of the environmental impact and ask your driver to move on to see other game if you feel your vehicle and presence are beginning to impact on the natural order of the animal world. In fact the number of tourists in the parks is of great concern and is beginning to detract from the beauty of this natural wonderland as vehicles jockey for best photographic positions and make new tracks to get their customers to the best view.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;" >Tanzania</span><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />Home to the most famous parks, The Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti as well as some less well known ones;Lake Manyara<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, Tarangire and Arusha</span> national parks. The Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti and Masai Mara all run into each other with animals free to roam from one to another. The crater is physically separated by its steep rim and the Great Rift Valley however the Serengeti and Masai Mara are only separated by an invisible border between Kenya and Tanzania.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Kenya</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>As well as the Masai Mara, Kenya is also home to the picturesque Amboseli national park and Tsavo East and West. Lake Nakuru national park is small but worthy of a visit, especially if you want the best chance of seeing rhinoceros, we saw 12 in one afternoon game drive! Lake Nakuru is also home to the flamingo migration which is a spectacular sight.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">Uganda</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br /><strong></strong>This is the place to come and see gorillas; the Parc National Des Volcans is the original backdrop to “Gorillas in the Mist”<br /></p>Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7553058778711259016.post-28818156145361886232007-07-30T17:24:00.003-07:002007-09-05T18:57:13.198-07:00Money<strong>Both US Dollars and Pounds Sterling</strong> are the major currencies for exchange in Africa. Many tourist places accept US Dollars so you don't have to change as much to the local currency. The Rand is also quite strong in Southern Africa.<br /><br /><strong>Travellers cheques</strong> are getting harder and harder to change every year.<br /><br /><strong>ATM's</strong> are available in most major cities. It can be a bit haphazard wether or not they have cash stocked to give you or not.<br /><br />I would strongly recommend taking <strong>US dollars, post 2000 edition</strong> in cash as well as having an ATM card with cirus or maestro as well as a pin number for your VISA or Mastercard.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">In East Africa<br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... most campsite bars, tourist activities and curio shops accept US dollars.<br />It is virtually impossible to change travellers cheques in East Africa, even when you find a bank that will change them it may take the bank an hour or so to do it.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;">Zimbabwe, current as at July 2007<br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">*****************************************</span></span><br />... tourists must pay for all accommodation by US cash or VISA card. (Zimbabwe only accepts VISA not Mastercard.)<br /><br />All tourist activitity centres and shops accept US cash.Lucy Joycehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16269843659414824337noreply@blogger.com0