Africa
July 14th, 2007 at 09:03pm
Under Africa
As a child, Africa fascinated me - a land where the wild and exotic animals of storybooks and zoos roamed free on the plains. And where Kenya was always the quintessential home of the safari.
Many visits later I’m no less enthralled by this region of dramatic contrasts, and remarkable wildlife amid stunningly beautiful and varied landscapes that are still unencumbered by the trappings of man. And little compares to nights filled with the primal sounds of the bush - the hoots and laughs of hyenas, the grumble of distant lions and the snorts of a hippo.
Kenya, the land where safari was born, is also known as the cradle of mankind - evidence of some of the earliest human settlements has been found here, suggesting that it was the birthplace of humanity from which descendents moved out to populate the world. However, it’s the boundless wilderness and big game of this region that has long attracted adventure seekers from all over the globe. No other African country can boast such an incredible range of scenery, unique geographical features and species.
A safari in Kenya is an extraordinary holiday for any wildlife lover, no matter your budget or the level of adventure you’re looking for. There’s no end of things to explore; from the highlands of central Kenya to the great Rift valley; from the elephants of Amboseli wallowing in a small watering hole, to the vast shores of Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the world; and from the spectacular views of Africa’s highest point, Mount Kilimanjaro, down to a coast of shimmering white sands along the Indian Ocean.
Soak up the wonders of nature while camping under the stars out in the bush, hundreds of miles away from civilization, or relax in luxury at one of the lodges scattered throughout the many game reserves and national parks of this magical country.
Whether you’re walking, driving, or even bobbing your way across the plains atop a camel, you’ll discover the scents, sounds, and footprints of the bush, as you enjoy the sight of a hyena at full gallop, weaving behind the adrenaline-powered run of a gazelle, or a mighty battle as buffalo bulls fight over territory.
If you venture on a Kenyan safari during July or August, perhaps the best way to check out the wildlife is by hot air balloon. Few places offer a better vantage point from which to witness the amazing phenomenon that is the annual wildebeest migration across the plains of the Maasai Mara, when millions of hooves thunder northwards in search of sweeter grazing during the drier months in the south.
The Maasai Mara Reserve, 200 sq miles of rolling hills, woods and acacia trees watered by the Mara and Talek rivers, opens onto the Serengeti plains of Tanzania. Home to the famously independent and traditional herdsmen, no trip to Kenya would be complete without a visit to Masai Mara. They regard themselves not just as residents of this area but as much a part of the life of the land, as the land is part of their lives.
A visit to Kenya is a veritable life-changing experience filled with an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, black rhino, lions, leopards and various antelope. One visit alone will be enough to make you understand Earnest Hemmingway’s words, “unknowable, unimaginable, unbelievable… and completely unforgettable.
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 10:24am
Under Africa
South African Travel Tips when traveling in the Free State
The Free State is dry, but far from dull, the Free State with its vast open spaces and cloudless blue skies offers those who like to explore, literally and figuratively, the ideal canvas.
Here outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy birding, game viewing, trophy hunting, hiking, horse riding, biking, 4×4 off-road driving, river rafting, fly-fishing, camping, climbing, spelunking or just relaxing in its more than 80 parks and reserves, such as the scenic Golden Gate Highlands National Park. History buffs have many significant sites to delve into and those with geological interests will marvel at the meteorite-impact site at Vredefort, the world’s oldest crater.
CLIMATE:
Hot in summer (Dec-Feb) when most of the rain falls, but can be very cold in winter (Apr-Jul) with heavy frost over most of the province. Snow is often recorded on the eastern mountains and occasionally over the rest of the region.
SHOPPING:
Traditional dress; woven baskets; silk painting; bead work; ‘mampoer’ (alcohol distilled from fruit); red meat, game and ‘biltong’ (dried meat); cherry or asparagus products; original art; beautiful handcrafted items from Phuthaditjhaba; mohair rugs and sandstone products.
TOP TEN ATTRACTIONS DESCRIPTION:
Golden Gate:
Highlands National Park In the Maluti Mountains, named after the golden sandstone cliffs; the scenery is magnificent incl. the imposing Brandwag rock and the climate invigorating; staying over is a popular option for humans and animals alike in this highlands habitat
Bloemfontein:
The ‘City of Roses’, Bloemfontein boasts cultural and political significance, featuring sandstone architecture, important museums and monuments and a busy events calendar; don’t miss the Franklin Game Reserve, only one in the world completely surrounded by a city; the Macufe Festival in Sep; the Loch Logan Waterfront; the historical township jazz performances and the War Museum.
Parys and the Vredefort Dome:
Named after Paris, Parys is situated on the Vaal River in the Vredefort Dome - a crater caused by a massive meteorite which hit earth about 250 million years ago; in Parys, don’t miss the Golf Island in the middle of the Vaal and other water activities and at Vredefort, adventure junkies can go on hiking routes, see untouched San paintings and ruins of iron age settlements, rock climb and abseil; the 200km Dome is best seen from the air.
The Battlefields:
Many historic sites related to the Anglo-Boer War are to be found in the Free State. Explore 13 battlefield sites, 8 military monuments, 2 war museums and 3 war and concentration camp cemeteries. Some of the main battles of war in 1900 are: Paardeberg, Poplar Grove, Driefontein, Sannaspos, Mostertshoek, Jammerbergdrift, Sand River, Biddulphsberg, Yeomanry Hill, Roodewal, Surrender Hill and Doornkraal.
Xhariep / Gariep:
Meaning ‘Great River’; a vast open grassland fed by the 2000km Gariep Dam offering travellers endless vistas of open blue skies, starry nights and unpolluted air; land of farms, parks and reserves ideal for hunters and eco-tourists alike.
Towns of Thabo Mofutsanyana:
Clarens is a picturesque town described as the “Jewel of the Free State”, here artists and art galleries abound and photographers find the scenery a magnet in autumn and spring; Memel is fast becoming a birding mecca with over 350 species including many ’specials’ and 15 Red Data listed species, other attractions are the scenery and the spectacular Seekoeivlei Wetlands floodplain; Ficksburg is filled with adventure options from the usual hiking, fishing and game activities to the unusual such as altitude scuba diving (2650m above sea level) and ox-wagon adventures!
Eastern Highlands:
Breathtaking scenery in pristine area with snow-capped mountains, densely vegetated valleys and wild gorges; ideal for romantic hide-aways, trout-fishing, bird watching and hiking; don’t miss the Bushmen paintings.
Vaal River:
The inland water mecca of South Africa offering boundless water sport opportunities such as white water rafting, relaxed sailing, powerboating and water skiing; game farms, accommodation facilities, camping sites and a casino also feature; Deneysville and Jim Fouche Resort near Oranjeville are major venues.
Lejweleputswa (Free State Gold Fields):
Go on underground mine tours of some of the deepest mines in the world on the Goldfields Route; visit Welkom, one of the few cities in the world planned to completion before building where you can go on a trip to the world’s deepest wine cellar at 857m below the earth’s surface at St Helena Mine and see the Gold Museum in the city as well as Phakisa Freeway, one of the top 5 motor racing circuits in the world; Virginia was home to the richest gold reefs in 1946 and is a nature lover’s paradise.
Basotho Cultural Village, Qwa Qwa National Park:
Scenic Qwa Qwa National Park offers an authentic traditional African experience in the form of its Basotho Cultural Village; see the reed-and-stick structures and mud huts, drink sorghum beer, watch the weaving and have your fortune predicted by a local healer.
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 10:23am
Under Africa
The fine Tsavo West National Park covers a huge variety o landscape, from swamps and natural springs to rocky peaks, extinct volcanic cones to rolling plains and sharp reddish outcrops dusted with greenery.
Attractiveness of Tsavo west national park
It’s easily the more attractive of the two parks, but wildlife can be hard to spot because of the dense scrub. Birds are very common and there are large populations of elephants, zebras, hippos and leopards. Lions are out there, but they tend to stay hidden.
The focus is Mzima springs, which produces an incredible 93 million gallons of fresh water a day. The springs are the source of the bulk of Mombasa fresh water and you can walk down to a large pool that is a favourite haunt for crocodiles and hippos. There’s an underwater viewing chamber. Be a little careful here-both crocs and hippos are potentially dangerous.
Birds eye views on crater hills
Chaimu crater, just south east of Kilaguni Serena lodge and the roaring rocks viewpoint can be climbed in about 15minutes. The views from either spot are stunning with falcons, eagles and buzzards whirling over the plains. While there is little danger when walking these trails, be ware that the wildlife is still out there so keep your eyes open.
Rhinos in the National Park
Another attraction is the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, at the base of Ngulia Hills, part of the Rhino Ark program. It’s close to Ngulia safari Lodge, but a long drive from anywhere else. The 70 sq km area is surrounded by a 1m-high electric fence and provides security for the park’s last 49 black rhinos.
There are driving tracks and waterholes within the enclosed area and there’s a good chance of seeing one of these elusive creatures. Large numbers of elephants, buffaloes and other species have moved into the enclosure.
Unusual animal species
Some of the more unusual species to look out for in the park include the naked mole rat, which can sometimes be seen kicking sand from its burrows, and the enigmatically named white bellied go-away bird, which is often seen perched in dead trees. Red- beaked hornbills and bateleur eagles are common. Look out for dung beetles rolling huge balls of elephant dung along the tracks.
Rock climbing in the park
It’s possible to go rock climbing at Tembo peak and the Ngulia Hills but you’ll need to arrange in advance with the park warden. This area is also fantastic for birdlife and there is a very reliable hippo pool on the Mukui River, near the Ngulia Safari Lodge.
Lake Vacation Spot-Lake Jipe
Lake Jipe at the south west end of the park, reached by a desperately dusty track from near Taveta. You can hire boats at the campsite to take you hippo and crocodile spotting on the lake (US$5). Huge herds of elephants come to the lake to drink and large flocks of migratory birds stop here from February to May.
Vacations to Tsavo West National Park can be arranged by a Kenya tour company based in Nairobi or you can also have a self-drive safari with equipment on hire from a car rental and camping Gear Company.
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 10:22am
Under Africa
The Serengeti in Northern Tanzania is probably the best known safari destination in the world, with good reason. The concentration and diversity of animal life in the Serengeti, simply defies belief. It is advisable to organise your safari in northern Tanzania around the Serengeti; but do not waste too much of your time in the tourist ridden central Serengeti. Despite what you may hear it’s still surprisingly easy to get away from crowds on safari in the Serengeti.
The Serengeti is Tanzania’s largest National Park. It’s bordered by the Ngorongoro Crater and Highlands and the Great Rift Valley to the east, and to the West by Lake Victoria. The Serengeti is probably best known for the awe inspiring Wildebeest Migration in which millions of animals circulate through the ecosystem annually in the never ending search for water; moving onto the 5000 sq km of grassland in the wet season and retreating to the woodland areas in the dry season. The migration in the Serengeti is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles any where in the world. To be up close and personal as you sit in the hub of the migration is an experience not to be missed. Tens of thousands of wildebeest together with all the accompanying noise [and smells] is an experience to keep with you forever.
However, there is more to the Serengeti than the migration. The park is home to prolific species of bird and mammal, not to mention fascinating plants and insects. If you are prepared to slow down in order to observe, just a little patience will reward you with the extraordinary beauty only the Serengeti can give; but it gives little to the hasty.
One of the truly amazing things about the Serengeti particularly when you think of it’s size is how incredibly accessible so much of it is. Combine this with the fact that many safarists only visit the most obvious/convenient places and you have a Serengeti of old - that offers the potential for a superb wilderness safari.
Choose your tour operator carefully, as most are only interested at getting you in and out of the Serengeti as quickly as possible and to take visitors to parts of the Serengeti that have guaranteed animals [the Seronera Valley for example]. This is why many people will complain in peak season that high traffic has spoiled the Serengeti experience- this is because many safari operators are all in one small area of this vast park!
Each of the regions in the Serengeti are so different that it is really difficult to treat the park as a single entity. It would be helpful to think of each as a separate park. When you visit the Serengeti we think it’s worth while - if time allows - to visit more than just one region within the Serengeti. Also each season offers something different for the visitor, so time of year is not so important unless it is imperative that you experience the mitigation - whilst it is still with us.
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 10:21am
Under Africa
Namakwa, as part of the Succulent Karoo, is a biodiversity hotspot and as such is the only arid hotspot in the world. It contains more than 6 000 plant species, 250 species of birds, 78 species of mammals, 132 species of reptiles and amphibians and an unknown number of insects, making it the world’s most diverse, arid environment. More than 40% of these species are found nowhere else on Earth.
The world’s largest forests of quiver trees or kokerbome - Aloe dichotoma - lie outside Loeriesfontein, Kenhardt and Onseepkans. Owing its name to the San, who used the trunk, branches and its bark to make quivers, the aloe grows to four metres, stores water in its trunk, resists drought and lives for up to 400 years.
Often the only trees for miles, their spiky branches are popular nesting places for sociable weavers, builders of the most intricate nesting systems in the world. The sterboom or star-tree - Cliffortia arborea - grows nowhere else but the southern sides of high ridges of the Nuweveld mountain where it finds shelter from the blazing sun. The parks and nature reserves are amongst the best places to view this floral wonderland.
The 77 000 ha Namaqua National Park, 22 km north-west of Kamieskroon, is open to the public throughout the year, but a conservation fee is charged during flower season. An upgraded circular drive lets visitors experience a wide floral display.
15 km southeast of Springbok is Goegap Nature Reserve, 15 000 ha of typically rocky granitic, rocky hills and sandy flats. It supports 600 indigenous flower species, 45 mammal species and 94 bird species.
The Hester Malan Wild Flower Garden showcases a spectacular number of indigenous succulants.
The incredible Richtersveld mountain desert is a must for anybody who enjoys spectacular scenery mixed with a variety of rare plantlife
Between July and September the Namakwa region sheds its drab facade and showers the world with flowers of every hue. Nature sheds any pretence at barren aridity and runs riot with tones and rainbow hues of rich and splendid brilliance.
Infusing the air with fantasy and delight, she takes our senses and sends them soaring on flights of floral fancy before returning us gently to earth at the onset of summer. The splendour of the flowers, however, depends heavily on a good pre-season rainfall.
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 07:32am
Under Africa
Families traveling with kids will find Amboseli national park a safari destination matched to no other, with less tourist traffic, breathtaking open spaces, easy access from Nairobi, the list is endless. The park described by writers as ‘ a home for the Gods’ covers 150sq mile south of Nairobi and lies just at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain at 5,895m. The park is currently on the cross roads with the government and the local communities both claiming ownership, with Kilimanjaro’s snow capped peaks dominating every aspect of this Park and form a stunning backdrop to the wildlife found here - elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, cheetah and a host of plains game and its breathtaking beauty, the tag is well worth the effort! The area is home to the Masai people, tall, colorful, proud, nomadic warriors famous for their legendary prowess in battle and single handed acts of bravery in fights with wild animals. Perhaps, more than any other people they have learned to live in complete harmony with the wildlife which surrounds them, this knowledge they proudly shared to visitors and well worth the time.
Kids will be allowed to get really close and explore the simple but fascinating homesteads, adults will also enjoy the cultural aspect of the lifestyle. Amboseli’s Oltukai lodge is one of the best spots in the world where children can watch elephants and study their fascinating wilderness behavior, This is where you will find the highest concentration of elephants than anywhere else in Africa, they can be seen spread well over the savannah woodland, just remember to ask your driver guide on how this clever mammals mourn and pay last respect to a dead member or how they cross their tiny young on a fast flowing river. . Quietly tucked away from view, The Kibo family Villa crouches undisturbed, an elegant three-bedroom log cabin built in stone and gum tree, in complete harmony with its surroundings. Own entrance, a lounge, a fully fitted kitchen and a barbecue area. Secluded by a copse of indigenous Acacia Tortilis trees and five acres of garden, Kibo Villa is peace and privacy made perfection. Two or threes small families traveling together love the self-catering option, use the lodges facility is welcome. Detailed attention is taken on security issues and a resident nurse is available on call. Kids will love the lavish private family buffet breakfast or dinner set out specially as a family package in wonderful secluded detting amongst the tortillas trees only a tone away from the family of the resident elephants also having a feast of their own, breakfast works out best. Selenkay conservation area lies east of Amboseli is well off the beaten track, never visited by tourist till now, birdlife is prolific especially bird of prey. The 6 tents Porini luxury camp caters for 12 guest at a time, the camp is in the lines of a traditional luxury family camp, comfortable family tent rooms, ensuite bathrooms, flush toilets, solar powered electric lighting and an amazing chef completes a safari family haven! At Amboseli locally trained masai naturalist or walking guides will get Kids out in the mornings in a small group of say 8 kids for an adventurous nature exploration. This walking trips to the nearby sites in most cases will include lessons on the masai hunting techniques, catching and naming butterflies, treasure hunts, tree planting, hide and seek in animal camouflaged clothing and an interesting Q and A session answering every question they have ever had on wildlife and tribesmen. The young rangers club is available to 10 - 15 year olds, could be a temporally or annual membership with letters, post cards and birthday cards sent to members all over the world from deep down wild and magical Africa!
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 07:31am
Under Africa
Although much has been written about the best time of year to travel in Africa, most countries are a year-round destination – depending upon your interests. For many travellers to this vast and diverse continent, wildlife is the major attraction.
One should always remember that the so-called ‘peak season’ is just that, and accommodation establishments tend to be booked well in advance. Many Safaris Lodges are small, and therefore space is at a premium. If you want to experience the majesty of the great migration in East Africa, it is advisable to book well in advance, likewise, if your interests are travelling to Cape Town, and the Winelands in December.
It is important to understand how seasonal trends might affect your trip. Remember, however, that weather is variable and so it is quite possible to go for days without rain during the rainy season, or have thundershowers in the middle of the dry season!
Wet Season
The grass can be long in some areas after the rains; therefore, game viewing at these times can be difficult. In some areas, the wildlife will disperse during the rains due to the ample water supply, as they are not dependent on water holes.
Dry Season
The best game-viewing period in Africa is generally during the dry season. Permanent water supplies attract animals, the vegetation becomes thinned out, and trees don’t have so many leaves to obstruct the view.
This optimum safari season usually includes winter (May-August) and the hot spring months of September and October. The climate is comfortable in the dry winter months of May, June, July and August. Daytime temperatures are mild and the nights get a little cool.
East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda)
There are two rainy seasons in East Africa, the first, known as the long rains is from April to June and the shorter season from late November through to December. Many properties in the game viewing areas do close during April and May, mainly due to bad road conditions.
The islands of Zanzibar are also affected during this period. The dry seasons are generally better for game viewing, as game concentrates around the water sources. The weather patterns play a major role in the great migration, as the animals follow the new grasses, which are dependent upon the rainfall.
In most parts of Southern Africa, the rainy season is generally from November to March. This is particularly true for the safari areas. The peak safari time is in the dry winter months as this is when the game concentrates around the water sources, although the summer months can be productive – especially for keen birders, as the migratory species breed during this period, and the Okavango Delta, for example, becomes a paradise.
Zambia tends to be more seasonal, as certain areas (Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa) can be made impassable due to bad road conditions. Certain properties do close between November and April.
The Western Cape area, including Cape Town, tends to experiences a winter rainfall, making the peak season to travel the summer months.
Indian Ocean Islands:
The weather patterns of the islands are similar to that of Southern Africa with summer rainfall, November to March. The ideal time to visit is from May through to October. Madagascar and parts of Mozambique can be affected by inclement weather in February and March (cyclones).
By admin
July 10th, 2007 at 07:31am
Under Africa
If you are on a guided African safari, your chances of encountering problems are minimal. Tour operators make it their business to know the areas they travel in thus reducing risk to travellers. However, it is sensible to take normal precautions on your African safari, particularly when travelling through urban areas.
Travel Documents / Money
Always have a photocopy of your passport, and any visas. Also, have a list of traveller’s cheque numbers. These copies should be packed separately from the originals. It is never a good idea to carry large amounts of cash, and most urban centres (hotels, shops) do accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are most common), and traveller’s cheques. You might need cash for purchases local markets – keep this in a travel wallet, or a zip pocket.
Luggage
Never leave cameras and hand luggage unattended, whether in a vehicle, or even in a hotel foyer. Never pack valuables (this includes medication), in your check-in luggage.
Personal Safety
When travelling independently on your African safari, stay informed in terms of the local news. Ask at your hotel about any unsafe areas, and codes of dress and behaviour. Don’t openly carry valuables. If you must carry your passport and money, keep them in a buttoned-down pocket.
Game Viewing
Your guide will always do a safety talk with you, whether your game viewing is to be done from a vehicle, or on foot. Wildlife is potentially dangerous, but as long as you adhere to what you guide tells you, there is very little to worry about. At viewpoints, hides and camps, wildlife is more familiar with people and less intimidated by your presence. Never tease or corner wild animals - this may cause an unpredictable response and a potentially dangerous reaction. Never feed any animals, as this can cause them to lose their fear of humans.
Creepy Crawlies
Although Africa is known to be home to a number of potentially dangerous species, especially snakes, scorpions, spiders, and insects, very few visitors are adversely affected. Snakes tend to be shy, and generally stay away from built-up areas. Lodges and camps generally have insect (especially mosquito) proofing in their rooms. If you go on a walk, it is always a good idea to comfortable, enclosed walking shoes, socks, and long trousers – just as a precaution.
By admin
July 9th, 2007 at 09:36pm
Under Africa
The 8th Annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival, acknowledged as the biggest event on the African continent, is the one weekend of the year when music lovers from all over South Africa and abroad descend on Cape Town for the music event that is not to be missed. The 8th annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival takes place on Friday 30th and Saturday 31st March at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Affectionately known as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, this multi-stage event brings together a dazzling bill of 40 African and international artists performing in five different venues to a diverse audience. The annual free Community Concert, the organisers’ commitment to community members who cannot make it to the paid sessions of the event, takes place on March 29th on Greenmarket Square.
“The line-up this year is consistent with our vision of the festival being a platform to showcase Africa’s best and the finest internationally. We maintain the 50/50 split between African artists and musicians from the rest of the world. We have also stuck to our formula where the Cape Town International Jazz Festival brings together jazz and other jazz-related experimental genres”, says festival director Rashid Lombard.
Artists confirmed to date include soul-jazz diva Randy Crawford; jazz legend Joe Sample; South Africa’s own world famous vocal group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo; Sibongile Khumalo and Jack DeJohnette; Intercontinental with Danilo Perez; Jerome Harris; Byron Wallen and Jason Yarde; The Caribbean Jazz Project featuring Paquito D’Rivera, Dave Samuels and Andy Narell; Vivid Afrika; Concord Nkabinde; Esther Miller featuring special guest Jeremy Pelt; Bev Scott-Brown; Bruce Muirhead Quartet; Fethi Tabet; Shannon Mowday; Lira; Diego Amador; Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band; Rudimentals; Nils Landgren; Hilton Schilder; Bheki Khoza; Lee Konitz Quartet; Stimela; Tortured Soul; Geri Allen Trio featuring Jimmy Cobb; Leela James; Gino Vannelli.
The Cape Town Jazz Festival is one of the most eagerly awaited events on South Africa’s events calendar, attracting tens of thousands of music aficionados each year. The event takes place on five stages, ranging in capacity from 660 persons to 8,000 persons, and is more than just a music festival. A series of workshops, focusing on music, the music business, arts journalism, a one day jazz music conference and master classes for professional and established musicians round out the kaleidoscope of activities taking place during the Festival.
For further information and photos please visit the newly designed, interactive official Festival website: www.capetownjazzfest.com.
By admin
July 9th, 2007 at 09:31pm
Under Africa
Africa is charmed with many varied environments, found in her unique cities as well as out in the bush. If your desire is for privacy, solitude, beauty and adventure, along with five star accommodations and cuisine, then you must put Grootbos Private Nature Reserve at the top of your list!
Grootbos (meaning “great bush” in Dutch) is in South Africa, about a 2 hour drive from Cape Town, near the towns of Hermanus and Gansbaai. The Indian Ocean seems all around as the road follows the coastline to Grootbos. 
The magic of this world has the power to transform your soul through the beauty of its nature. Arriving at Grootbos, nestled in the midst of an ancient Milkwood forest, the same beauty and serenity is evident. This nature reserve is very large, and conserves over 2500 acres of beautiful countryside, which is home to over 650 species of indigenous plants.
There are two beautifully positioned lodges. The Garden Lodge suites are very large, luxuriously comfortable and private. All of the individual cottages have spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. Privacy is important. To reach your room, the walk leads you along a paved and lighted pathway, winding by serene pools, lush greenery and brightly colored flowers. You can smell the fragrance of the forest and hear the call of exotic birds. From your suite, no other rooms or cottages are visible, only the lush green, the beautiful flowers, the forest sounds and the huge Indian Ocean are there to enhance the senses.
Suites have a spacious living room area with a fireplace and full wet bar along with fresh fruit snacks and bottled water. The bedroom is separate from the living room area and has an adjoining full bath. The bed is luxurious with full mosquito netting. Quite exotic, but we did not need the netting, or the insect repellent, during our visit. The bathroom amenities were plentiful with aromatic soaps, lotions, bath candles and soft comfy robes.
The Forest Lodge is located further up the hill with sweeping views of the entire area of the mountains, beaches and the sea. This lodge is furnished with a contemporary flavor, very massive, stylish and sophisticated. In addition to being a private getaway, it is also an excellent location for family reunions or conventions. The dining area is strategically placed, providing an awe inspiring panoramic view of the Indian Ocean, wooded hills and changing sky.
Cuisine at both lodges is equally unsurpassed. Culinary preparation is done with creative precision, and oh, so appealing to the senses. Each entree presents with its own personality of colors, presentation and divine flavor and aroma. Dessert? Indulge, for these are some of the finest!
And the staff is incredibly friendly, helpful and knowledgeable of everything from the fine cuisine, fantastic South African wines, names of plant species and best yet, they can guide you on journeys leading to hidden vast sea caves with archeological digs, or across miles of forest via their safari Range Rovers. 
They make frequent stops to provide narrative about the ecosystem and history of the area. Plenty of time for photo opportunity as well!
If you inquire about the stars of the night sky, they even know about the night sky with stars that are different in the Southern Hemisphere. And most impressive, The Southern Cross!! I gazed at it every single night as it was bright and easy to find.
You may be in the “middle of nowhere” in this wonderfully peaceful place but you’ll still find plenty of adventure to fill your time.
Whether you want to just sit back and read a book with a glass of fine wine, get Internet access in the main hall, picnic at private ocean beaches, hike or horseback ride, these are but of few of the adventures to be had. Photo 16 boat
In the nearby town of Gansbaai, we went on a fantastic boating tour aboard the Whale Whisperer. We were privileged to see schools of dolphin playing in the wake of our boat, various sea birds, colonies of Cape Fur Seals with their pups, and the nesting grounds of the rare African Penguin. 
We even chanced upon a quite unusual sight of a seal making a meal of a large octopus. We visited the world famous “shark alley” home to the largest concentration of Great White Sharks in the world. They can be seen up close and personal, in the safety of a shark cage and most of the shark footage seen on nature films is shot here. If you visit between June and December, you can see about 160 of the Southern Right Whales who make this bay their home during those months. These whales can be viewed either by land or aboard the Whale Whisperer.
But Grootbos is not just another resort, for they have chosen to “give back” to the community and the fragile environment. In 2004, the Grootbos Foundation was established with the intent of managing and implementing environmental and social developmental projects, through research, management and education. They are home to the Green Futures Horticultural & Life Skills College, an organization housed on the Grootbos Reserve that provides annual practical-based training programs for unemployed people in the fields of fynbos (“fine bush”) landscaping, horticulture and ecotourism. See what they are about at www.greenfutures.co.za
And there are greater plans in the future as Grootbos reaches further to improve the quality and direction of life for children in the poverty-ridden townships scattered across South Africa. Soccer is a favorite pastime among the youth of this great country and it is through this interest that individual lives are challenged to be changed. Sponsored through Grootbos, youth can find hope, direction and opportunity to improve their state of life.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an awe-inspiring place. 
Picture yourself sitting at an umbrella table on their great front deck, sipping wine and soaking in the gorgeous beauty of the hills and the vast Indian Ocean. Feel those cool breezes, forest sounds, fragrant aromas, warm sun and the absolute peace, quiet and serenity.
Whether you are a tourist seeking to “de-stress”, or a volunteer willing to teach in one of their youth programs, it would be one of the most satisfying experiences of your life. Grootbos is one of those places that create memories lasting for a lifetime.
By admin
July 3rd, 2007 at 07:39pm
Under Africa
“The street is closed ahead! The best way to get there is on a horse - which I have, for a good price…”
So goes the latest scheme for ripping Pyramid visitors of their money. It’s unique only because tourists are accosted while they’re still in their taxis, waiting for the traffic to ease on the way to these megaton monuments.
Dr Zahi Hawass, head of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, has tried to improve the situation at the Pyramids. Whereas visitors used to have to run a gauntlet of postcard vendors, horse touts and men offering camels for photo ops, now only a handful of people are allowed onto the plateau. The rest are kept at bay by a giant concrete wall topped with barbed wire, as well as police standing sentry on camelback. The day I visited, I saw a brief but exciting chase between them and a rogue horse tout who’d been making a beeline for a crowd of tourists.
But Dr Hawass hasn’t actually solved the problem. The residents of the village at the base of the pyramids have been making their living off visitors for hundreds of years, so physically blocking them from tourists has only forced them into more creative solutions. The line of scrimmage has simply been moved a few kilometers away. Moreover, the tourism police admit they don’t have any control over the horse touts - yes, the official rate is LE35 per hour, “but you’re still expected to bargain”.
Moreover, the experience on the Pyramids plateau itself is not friendly to the independent traveler. Visiting on your own, you’re still prey to the occasional guard who asks for baksheesh for showing you an alleged “ruin” - the abandoned neo-Egyptian concrete police station - and you may also be squashed flat by a tour bus careening down one of the new paved roads. Trudging through the sand, away from the buses that are the antiquities council’s bread and butter, you just might start to think a horseback ride is just what you need. If only you’d listened to the guy who jumped in your taxi…
By admin
April 2nd, 2007 at 11:02am
Under Africa+ Europe
What happened: Flight headaches continued to plague teams this week’s double-leg race from Zanzibar, Tanzania, to Warsaw, Poland. Delays, communication problems and missed connections meant that some teams began the next leg of the race before others even arrived in…
Scotland
Original post by colleenclark For All Your Travel Needs Best Travel Rates Online
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March 26th, 2007 at 08:44am
Under Africa
What happened: Has it ever been so difficult for the Amazing Racers to actually start racing? The teams needed to fly from Maputo, Mozambique, to Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, but found the task about as easy as escaping Denver in…
Original post by City Guide For All Your Travel Needs Best Travel Rates Online
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March 19th, 2007 at 10:05am
Under Africa
What happened: Teams searched a glacier using a GPS device to find an avalanche beacon buried beneath the ice. Attached to the beacon was their clue, which directed them to fly to Maputo, Mozambique. Because teams could not book foreign…
Scotland
Original post by colleenclark For All Your Travel Needs Best Travel Rates Online
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