Most safaris are centered on guests participating in two or three activities per day, such as game drives in minivans or four-wheel-drive vehicles. A game drive simply consists of having your guide drive you around a park or reserve in search of wildlife.
Most activities last two to four hours and are made when the wildlife is most active: early in the morning, often before breakfast, just after breakfast, in the late afternoon and at night (where allowed). Midday activities might include lazing around the swimming pool, reading or taking a nap. After an exhilarating day on safari, many guests return to revel in the day’s adventures over exquisite European cuisine in comfortable lodges and camps.
The kind and quality of experience one has on safari varies greatly from country, and even from park to park within the same country. For instance, going on safari East Afrika (Kenya and Tanzania) is completely different from going on safari in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana.
Simply watching wildlife anywhere in Afrika is an experience in itself. However, more and more people preferring to travel any away from the crowds and wish to personally experience more from the safari than just seeing animals.
How can be this is done? By choose a safari that includes parks which are not crowded afford the feeling of being more in the bush. Choose reserves that allow you to participate in activities that make you a more integral part of the safari, like walking and canoeing. Choose smaller camps and lodges that are unfenced, allowing wildlife to walk freely about the grounds.
Another excellent way to get the most out of your safari is to have a private safari arranged for you. A privet safari immediately becomes your safari. You do not have to bow to the wishes of the majority of the group or the strictly set itinerary of the group departures. You are basically free to do what you wish during the day (within reason) as long as your guide can get to your camp or lodge before nightfall.
Depending on the park or reserve, safari activities might include day game drives, night game drives, walks, boat safaris, canoeing, kayaking, ballooning, white-water rafting, mountain climbing, and fishing-the options are almost endless.
ACCOMODATION
There is a great variety of styles and levels of comfort in accommodation available in the major cities while on safari, ranging from basic hunts to suites with privet swimming pools. Options include hotels, lodges, small camps with chattels or bungalows, fixed tented camps and mobile tented safaris.
CHOOSING ACCOMODATION
The type of accommodation included in a tour of Afrika will have a major influence on the type of experience and adventure you will have on safari.
An important factor to consider when choosing accommodation or tour is the size of the lodge or camp. In general guests receive more personal attentions at smaller camps and lodges than larges ones. Large properties tend to stick to a set schedule while smaller properties are often more willing to amend their schedule according to the preference of their guests. However, larger properties tend to be less expensive, making tours using the larger properties more affordable.
Many larger properties (especial in Kenya) are surrounded by electrical fences, allowing the guests to move around without fear of bumping into elephant or other wildlife. Travelers who enjoy having wildlife roaming about camp should seek properties that are not fenced; these properties are best for travelers who want to experience living in the bush.
Most properties in Kenya and Tanzania have 75-200 beds where most camps in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe have 16or less.
HOTELS
Many Afrika cites such as Nairobi, Harare, Kigali, etc have five-star (first class and deluxe) hotels comparable to anywhere in the world, with air-condition and private facilities, swimming pools and one or more excellent restaurants and bars.
LODGES
Lodges ranging from comfortable to deluxe (many have swimming pools) are located in or near most park and reserves. Many lodges and camps are located in wildlife areas 3,000 feet’s or more above sea level, so air-condition is so often not necessary.
CAMPS
There is often confusion over the term camp. A camp often refers to lodging in chalets, bungalows or tents in a remote location. Camps range from very basic to garishly plush. Deluxe camps often better service and food, and most certainly a truer safari atmosphere, than large lodges and hotels.
Fixed tented camps are permanent camps that are not moved. Besides generally having better food and service than lodges, guests of deluxe fixed tented camps have more of “safari experience”. One is less isolated from the environment than if he were staying in a lodge. Mobile tented camps are discussed under “Types of Safari”.
HOTEL CLASSIFICATIONS
Hotels are categorized as Deluxe, First Class and Tourist Class.
DELUXE: An excellent hotel, rooms with private bath, air conditioning, more than one restaurant serving very good food, swimming pool, bars, loungers, room service-all the amenities of a four-or five-star international hotel.
FIRST CLAASS: A very comfortable hotel, rooms with private bath, air conditioning, at least one bar and restaurant; most have swimming pools.
TOURIST CLASS: Comfortable hotel with simple rooms with private bath, most with air-conditioning, restaurant, bar and most have swimming pools.
LODGE AND TENTED CAMP CLASSIFICATIONS
Lodge and tented camps are classified as Class A-F.
CLASS A: Deluxe lodge or rented camp, many with swimming pools, excellent food and service, large nicely appointed rooms or tents with private bath, comfortable beds and tasteful decor; lodges may have air-conditions.
CLASS A/B: An excellent lodge or tented camp with very good food and service, many with swimming pools; rooms in lodge with private facilities; bathroom facilities in the camps may be en suite or a short walk from the chalet or tent.
CLASS B: A comfortable lodge/camp with good food and service, many with swimming pools. Rooms in lodges have private baths; most tents, chalets or bungalows have private bathrooms
CLASS B/C: Most often a “Class B” property that is some what inconsistent with the quality of accommodation, food and service.
CLASS C: A simple lodge with a private bathroom or tented camp, chattel or bungalow with private or shared facilities, fair food and service, or a “Class B” structure with fair to poor service or food.
CLASS D: A basic lodge/tented camp. Lodge, chattels, bungalow and tents seldom have private bathrooms, or a “Class C” structure with poor food or service.
CLASS F: Very basic lodge or tented camp without private bathrooms, often self-service (no restaurant).
FOOD
Most international travelers are impressed with the quality of the food and drink served on their safari.
Excellent European cuisine along with interesting local dishes are served in the top hotels, lodges, camps and restaurants French cuisine is served in Rwanda, Zaire, and Burundi, while British cuisine predominant serving cuisine from all over the world may be found in the larger cities in Africa.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
TYPES OF SAFARIS
LODGE AND PERMANENT CAMP SAFARIS
Lodge safaris are simply safaris using lodge or fixed camps for accommodation. Some safaris mix lodge with fined tented camps, or camps with chalets or bungalows, providing a greater range of experience for their guests.
MOBILE TENTED CAMP SAFAIS
Private mobile tented camp safaris are, in my opinion, one of the best ways to experience the bush. Group mobile tented safaris are also great way of getting off the beaten track.
Having hippo grazing by your tent at night or elephant walking through your camp by day is an experience not to be missed! When under the guidance of professional guide, this is not as dangerous as it might sound. Animal will almost never try to enter a closed tent unless tempted by the smell of food. If you keep the tent flaps closed at night, you are generally just as safe as if you were staying in a bungalow or chalet. So why not go where the excitement is!
Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Botswana are excellent countries for mobile tented safaris. These safaris are also available in Kenya and Zambia.
Mobile tented safaris range from deluxe to first class, midrange and budget (participation) Safaris.
Deluxe Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
Deluxe mobile tented camp safaris are the epitome of mobile safaris. Each tent has a private shower and toilet tent. Food and service are excellent. Camp attendants take care of everything, including bringing hot water for your shower. Camp is usually set in remote areas of parks and reserves, providing a true Africa experience.
First-Class Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
These are similar to the deluxe safaris in each sleeping tent has a private toilet tent and shower tent. Food and service is also very good. The main difference is that the tents are a little smaller, yet very comfortable.
Midrange Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
Comfortable (and less expensive) midrange mobile tented safaris are available in a number of countries. Like deluxe and first-class mobile tented safaris, camp staff takes care of all the chores. The difference is that the tents are a bit smaller but are still large enough (in which) to stand. The food and service is very good, and guest from one to three sleeping tents may share one toilet tent and one shower tent with (hot shower) facilities.
Budget (Participation) Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
On budget mobile tented safaris, participation is often required to help with camp chores. Park campsites with (if any) facilities are often used.
The advantage is price. Budget camping safaris are almost always less expensive than lodge safaris. However these are recommended only for the hardiest of travelers. Most participants are under thirty-five years of age. Hot showers are usually available most night.
PRIVATE SAFARIS
For those who wish to avoid groups, private safaris highly recommended for several reason.
An itinerary can be specially designed according to the kind of experience you want, visiting the parks and reserves you wish to see most, and traveling on the dates that you suit you best. You may your time doing what you wish to do rather than you have to compromise with the group.
What few people realize is that, in many cases, private safaris need not cost more than one with a large group. In fact, I have been guiding couples and small groups on private safaris for not much more 9 and sometimes less) than group departures with my company which offering the similar itinerary.
If you find this difficult to believe, call or write me with what you have in mind, and I’ll be happy to send you an itinerary. (Itineraries)
SELF-DRIVE SAFARIS.
In Africa, self-drive safaris are a viable option for general sightseeing in countries such as South Africa that have excellent road systems. However, self-drive safaris into wildlife parks and reserves are, in general, not a good idea for several reasons.
One major disadvantage of self-drive safaris is that one misses the information and experience a drive/guide can provide. A good guide is an excellent game spotter and knows when and where to look for the animals you wish to see most. He can communicate with other guides to find out where the wildlife has most recently been seen. This also leaves you free to concentrate on photography and game viewing instead of the road and eliminates the anxiety of perhaps getting lost.
Self-drive safaris, especially ones requiring four-wheel-drive vehicles, are most often more expensive than join a group safari. Vehicle rental cost is high, especially since most have high mileage charge over and above the daily rental rate.
Finally, self-drive safaris by people without extensive experience in the bush can be dangerous. Lack of knowledge of wildlife and the bush can result in life-threatening situations. For instance, if a lion sees you out of your vehicle changing a tire, it may very well attack.
Carnet de Passage is required by most countries to take your own vehicle across borders without paying import duty your automobile association, as it is required by most of the countries covered in this information. Contact the tourist offices, consulates, or embassies of the countries in which you wish to drive for any addition requirements.
Lodge safaris are simply safaris using lodge or fixed camps for accommodation. Some safaris mix lodge with fined tented camps, or camps with chalets or bungalows, providing a greater range of experience for their guests.
MOBILE TENTED CAMP SAFAIS
Private mobile tented camp safaris are, in my opinion, one of the best ways to experience the bush. Group mobile tented safaris are also great way of getting off the beaten track.
Having hippo grazing by your tent at night or elephant walking through your camp by day is an experience not to be missed! When under the guidance of professional guide, this is not as dangerous as it might sound. Animal will almost never try to enter a closed tent unless tempted by the smell of food. If you keep the tent flaps closed at night, you are generally just as safe as if you were staying in a bungalow or chalet. So why not go where the excitement is!
Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Botswana are excellent countries for mobile tented safaris. These safaris are also available in Kenya and Zambia.
Mobile tented safaris range from deluxe to first class, midrange and budget (participation) Safaris.
Deluxe Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
Deluxe mobile tented camp safaris are the epitome of mobile safaris. Each tent has a private shower and toilet tent. Food and service are excellent. Camp attendants take care of everything, including bringing hot water for your shower. Camp is usually set in remote areas of parks and reserves, providing a true Africa experience.
First-Class Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
These are similar to the deluxe safaris in each sleeping tent has a private toilet tent and shower tent. Food and service is also very good. The main difference is that the tents are a little smaller, yet very comfortable.
Midrange Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
Comfortable (and less expensive) midrange mobile tented safaris are available in a number of countries. Like deluxe and first-class mobile tented safaris, camp staff takes care of all the chores. The difference is that the tents are a bit smaller but are still large enough (in which) to stand. The food and service is very good, and guest from one to three sleeping tents may share one toilet tent and one shower tent with (hot shower) facilities.
Budget (Participation) Mobile Tented Camp Safaris
On budget mobile tented safaris, participation is often required to help with camp chores. Park campsites with (if any) facilities are often used.
The advantage is price. Budget camping safaris are almost always less expensive than lodge safaris. However these are recommended only for the hardiest of travelers. Most participants are under thirty-five years of age. Hot showers are usually available most night.
PRIVATE SAFARIS
For those who wish to avoid groups, private safaris highly recommended for several reason.
An itinerary can be specially designed according to the kind of experience you want, visiting the parks and reserves you wish to see most, and traveling on the dates that you suit you best. You may your time doing what you wish to do rather than you have to compromise with the group.
What few people realize is that, in many cases, private safaris need not cost more than one with a large group. In fact, I have been guiding couples and small groups on private safaris for not much more 9 and sometimes less) than group departures with my company which offering the similar itinerary.
If you find this difficult to believe, call or write me with what you have in mind, and I’ll be happy to send you an itinerary. (Itineraries)
SELF-DRIVE SAFARIS.
In Africa, self-drive safaris are a viable option for general sightseeing in countries such as South Africa that have excellent road systems. However, self-drive safaris into wildlife parks and reserves are, in general, not a good idea for several reasons.
One major disadvantage of self-drive safaris is that one misses the information and experience a drive/guide can provide. A good guide is an excellent game spotter and knows when and where to look for the animals you wish to see most. He can communicate with other guides to find out where the wildlife has most recently been seen. This also leaves you free to concentrate on photography and game viewing instead of the road and eliminates the anxiety of perhaps getting lost.
Self-drive safaris, especially ones requiring four-wheel-drive vehicles, are most often more expensive than join a group safari. Vehicle rental cost is high, especially since most have high mileage charge over and above the daily rental rate.
Finally, self-drive safaris by people without extensive experience in the bush can be dangerous. Lack of knowledge of wildlife and the bush can result in life-threatening situations. For instance, if a lion sees you out of your vehicle changing a tire, it may very well attack.
Carnet de Passage is required by most countries to take your own vehicle across borders without paying import duty your automobile association, as it is required by most of the countries covered in this information. Contact the tourist offices, consulates, or embassies of the countries in which you wish to drive for any addition requirements.
SAFARI ACTIVITIES
SAFARI ACTIVITIES
Africa can be experienced in a myriad of exciting ways. What follows are a numbers of types of safari activities. For addition information refer to the country mentioned.
SAFARI VEHICLE
Open vehicles usually have two rows of elevated seats behind the driver’s seat. There is no side or rear windows or permanent roof, providing unobstructed views in all directions and a feeling of being part of the environment instead of on the outside looking in. Such kind of vehicles is well used in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, some reserves in South Africa.
In vehicle with roof hatches or pop-top roofs, riders may stand up through the hatch for game viewing and photography. If the vehicle is full, rides usually must take turn using the hatches, making tours which guarantee windows seats for every passenger ( i.e., maximum of sever passengers in a nine-seat land-cruiser/Land-rover/minivan) all the more attractive. These vehicles are more used in Kenya and Tanzania.
Wildlife viewing, end especially photography, are more where closed vehicle are required. In South Africa (except private reserves) and major parks in Namibia, closed vehicle are required.
PHOTO SAFARIS
The term photo safari generally means any kind of safari except hunting safaris.
In its strictest sense, a photo safari is a safari escorted by a professional wildlife photographer, especially for the serious photographer. These safaris are mainly about learning wildlife photography and getting best photos possible. These are recommended only for the serious shutter-bug.
WALKING SAFARIS
Walking safaris put one in closest touch with nature. Suddenly your senses come alive every sight, sound and smell becomes intensely meaningful. Could that flash of bronze in dense bush ahead be a lion? I wonder how long ago these rhino tracks were made. Can that herd of elephant ahead see or smell us approaching?
Accompanied by an armed wildlife expert, walking safaris last anywhere from a few hours to several days. The bush can be examined up-close and at a slower pace, allowing more attention to its fascinating detail than on a safari by vehicle.
Participants can often approach quite closely to game, depending on the direction of the wild and the cover available. This is experiencing the excitement and adventure of the bush at its best. Zambia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe are the top countries for walking safaris. Walking is also available in some part of Botswana, Kenya and South Africa.
NIGHT GAME DRIVES
Night game drives open up a new world of adventure. Nocturnal animals, seldom if ever seen by day, are viewed with the aid of the vehicle’s powerful search light. Bush babies, night apes, leopard, civet, genet and many other species can be seen.
In addition to the chart which follows, night game drives are allowed and often conducted outside of many reserves, including the Maasai Mara (Kenya), Manyara (Tanzania), Hwange, and Matusadona (Zimbabwe).
GORLLA SAFARIS
Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting adventures one can have on the “dark continent” and is certainly one of the most exciting experiences of life.
Mountain gorillas are best seen in Volcano National Park (Rwanda), Djomba Gorilla Sanctuary and Rumangabo (Burkina) Station (DRC). Lowland gorilla as have been haunted in Kahuzi-Beiga National Park in DRC. Permits for gorilla trekking are limited; gorilla safaris should be booked well in advance.
BALLOON SAFARIS
At five-thirty in the morning, you will be awaked by steaming hot coffee and tea brought to your bedsides by your private tent keeper. Get off at six o’clock for a short game drive to where the hot-air balloons are being filled. Moments later you will be lifted above the plains of the Serengeti/Maasai Mara National Park for the ride of a lifetime.
Silently viewing game from the perfect vantage point, you will brush tops of giant acacias for close-up views of bird’s nests and baboons. Most animals took little notice, but somehow the hippos know you are there. Maybe it might be your shadow or the occasional firing of the burners necessary to keep you aloft.
Return to the earth it is an event in itself. One hours and 15min. after lift-off, your pilot will landing. By the way, all landings are crash landings, so just follow your pilot’s instructions and join in the fun.
Minutes later a champagne breakfast appeared on the open savannah within clear view of herds of wildebeest, buffalo, and zebra. Your return to camp it is another exciting game drive, only a little bumpier than the trip out.
Hot-air balloon safaris are available in Kenya in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, at Taita Hills near Tsavo West National Park and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
BOAT/CANOE/KAYAK SAFARIS
Wildlife viewing by boat, canoe or kayak from the rivers or lakes often allows one to approach wildlife closer than by vehicle. Game viewing by boat is available in Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta (Botswana), Selous Game Reserve on Rufiji river and Kilombero Valley, Arusha National Park on Momela lakes, Rubondo Island National Park on Lake Victoria (Tanzania), Lake Kariba and along Matusadina National Park (Zimbabwe) and the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls (Zambia)
Canoe safaris from three to nine days are operated along the Zambezi River below Kariba Dam in Zimbabwe Wildlife is best in the area along Mana Pool national Park. This is definitely one of favorite adventures. In Zambia, canoe safaris are offered above Victoria Falls and below Kariba Dam.
Three-day/two-night safaris are operated on the Zambezi River in Zambezi National Park upstream from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
WHITE-WATER RAFTING
For white enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the Zambezi River (Zambia/Zimbabwe) below Victoria Falls is one of the most challenging rivers in the world. Some rapids are Class Five – the highest class runable. Rafting safaris from one to seven days are available. No previous experience is required. Just hang on and have the tie of your life!
HORSEBACK SAFARIS
Game viewing by horseback is yet another intriguing way to experience the bush. Horseback safaris up to 16 days in length are conducted in Kenya. Half-day horseback safaris are available in Matobo National Park and Kyle Recreational Park (Zimbabwe)
Horseback riding outside of wildlife areas is offered in s number of areas, including Nyanja National Park and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Arusha (Tanzania).
BIRD WATCHING
If you are not a bird watcher now, there’s a good chance you will be converted before the end of your safari. Bird watching in Africa is almost beyond belief. Some courtiers have recorded over 1000different species and some parks over 500.
The best time for bird watching is November and March in most areas. However, bird watching is very good year around.
Keen birders planning to visit southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Lesotho, Tanzania, Swaziland and Zimbabwe).
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING
Africa ha mountains to challenge tenderfoot, and the expert as well. Mt. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), 19,340feet in altitude, is the highest mountain in Afrika, followed by Mt. Kenya (Kenya) at 17,058feet. The Ruwenzori, or Mountain of the moon (Uganda/DRC), is the highest mountain chain in Afrika, rising to 16,794 feet. All of these mountains lie within a few degrees of the equator yet are snowcapped year around. Hiking through fascinating and unique Afro-alpine vegetation found on all of these mountains gives one the feeling of being on another planet.
SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING
Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and Mauritius offer excellent coral reef diving in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
In Kenya Malindi-Watamu Marine National Reserve is probably the best choice. For those willing to rough it, five-day dive trips on a live-aboard dhow are available from the southern Kenyan coast to Pemba Island (Tanzania).
The Natal coast of South Afrika has excellent coral reefs while the Southern Cape offers the ultimate underwater thrill of diving with great white sharks!
FISHING
Some of the finest deep-sea fishing in the world is found in Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya, off Pemba and Mafia Island (Tanzania), and off the island country of Mauritius.
Freshwater fishing for Nile perch (200+ pounds) and tiger fish (one of the best fighting fish in the world) is excellent in the Lake Tanganyika (especially near Zambia), Lakes Turkana and Victoria, and Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe). Trout fishing is very good in parks such as Nyanga (Zimbabwe) and the Aberdares (Kenya). Most fresh water fishing requires a license which can usually be obtained from your hotel, lodge or camp for a small fee.
OTHER SAFARIS
Additional option for special interest traveler includes anthropology, archeology, art, backpacking, camel safaris, etc.
Africa can be experienced in a myriad of exciting ways. What follows are a numbers of types of safari activities. For addition information refer to the country mentioned.
SAFARI VEHICLE
Open vehicles usually have two rows of elevated seats behind the driver’s seat. There is no side or rear windows or permanent roof, providing unobstructed views in all directions and a feeling of being part of the environment instead of on the outside looking in. Such kind of vehicles is well used in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, some reserves in South Africa.
In vehicle with roof hatches or pop-top roofs, riders may stand up through the hatch for game viewing and photography. If the vehicle is full, rides usually must take turn using the hatches, making tours which guarantee windows seats for every passenger ( i.e., maximum of sever passengers in a nine-seat land-cruiser/Land-rover/minivan) all the more attractive. These vehicles are more used in Kenya and Tanzania.
Wildlife viewing, end especially photography, are more where closed vehicle are required. In South Africa (except private reserves) and major parks in Namibia, closed vehicle are required.
PHOTO SAFARIS
The term photo safari generally means any kind of safari except hunting safaris.
In its strictest sense, a photo safari is a safari escorted by a professional wildlife photographer, especially for the serious photographer. These safaris are mainly about learning wildlife photography and getting best photos possible. These are recommended only for the serious shutter-bug.
WALKING SAFARIS
Walking safaris put one in closest touch with nature. Suddenly your senses come alive every sight, sound and smell becomes intensely meaningful. Could that flash of bronze in dense bush ahead be a lion? I wonder how long ago these rhino tracks were made. Can that herd of elephant ahead see or smell us approaching?
Accompanied by an armed wildlife expert, walking safaris last anywhere from a few hours to several days. The bush can be examined up-close and at a slower pace, allowing more attention to its fascinating detail than on a safari by vehicle.
Participants can often approach quite closely to game, depending on the direction of the wild and the cover available. This is experiencing the excitement and adventure of the bush at its best. Zambia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe are the top countries for walking safaris. Walking is also available in some part of Botswana, Kenya and South Africa.
NIGHT GAME DRIVES
Night game drives open up a new world of adventure. Nocturnal animals, seldom if ever seen by day, are viewed with the aid of the vehicle’s powerful search light. Bush babies, night apes, leopard, civet, genet and many other species can be seen.
In addition to the chart which follows, night game drives are allowed and often conducted outside of many reserves, including the Maasai Mara (Kenya), Manyara (Tanzania), Hwange, and Matusadona (Zimbabwe).
GORLLA SAFARIS
Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting adventures one can have on the “dark continent” and is certainly one of the most exciting experiences of life.
Mountain gorillas are best seen in Volcano National Park (Rwanda), Djomba Gorilla Sanctuary and Rumangabo (Burkina) Station (DRC). Lowland gorilla as have been haunted in Kahuzi-Beiga National Park in DRC. Permits for gorilla trekking are limited; gorilla safaris should be booked well in advance.
BALLOON SAFARIS
At five-thirty in the morning, you will be awaked by steaming hot coffee and tea brought to your bedsides by your private tent keeper. Get off at six o’clock for a short game drive to where the hot-air balloons are being filled. Moments later you will be lifted above the plains of the Serengeti/Maasai Mara National Park for the ride of a lifetime.
Silently viewing game from the perfect vantage point, you will brush tops of giant acacias for close-up views of bird’s nests and baboons. Most animals took little notice, but somehow the hippos know you are there. Maybe it might be your shadow or the occasional firing of the burners necessary to keep you aloft.
Return to the earth it is an event in itself. One hours and 15min. after lift-off, your pilot will landing. By the way, all landings are crash landings, so just follow your pilot’s instructions and join in the fun.
Minutes later a champagne breakfast appeared on the open savannah within clear view of herds of wildebeest, buffalo, and zebra. Your return to camp it is another exciting game drive, only a little bumpier than the trip out.
Hot-air balloon safaris are available in Kenya in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, at Taita Hills near Tsavo West National Park and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
BOAT/CANOE/KAYAK SAFARIS
Wildlife viewing by boat, canoe or kayak from the rivers or lakes often allows one to approach wildlife closer than by vehicle. Game viewing by boat is available in Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta (Botswana), Selous Game Reserve on Rufiji river and Kilombero Valley, Arusha National Park on Momela lakes, Rubondo Island National Park on Lake Victoria (Tanzania), Lake Kariba and along Matusadina National Park (Zimbabwe) and the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls (Zambia)
Canoe safaris from three to nine days are operated along the Zambezi River below Kariba Dam in Zimbabwe Wildlife is best in the area along Mana Pool national Park. This is definitely one of favorite adventures. In Zambia, canoe safaris are offered above Victoria Falls and below Kariba Dam.
Three-day/two-night safaris are operated on the Zambezi River in Zambezi National Park upstream from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
WHITE-WATER RAFTING
For white enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the Zambezi River (Zambia/Zimbabwe) below Victoria Falls is one of the most challenging rivers in the world. Some rapids are Class Five – the highest class runable. Rafting safaris from one to seven days are available. No previous experience is required. Just hang on and have the tie of your life!
HORSEBACK SAFARIS
Game viewing by horseback is yet another intriguing way to experience the bush. Horseback safaris up to 16 days in length are conducted in Kenya. Half-day horseback safaris are available in Matobo National Park and Kyle Recreational Park (Zimbabwe)
Horseback riding outside of wildlife areas is offered in s number of areas, including Nyanja National Park and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Arusha (Tanzania).
BIRD WATCHING
If you are not a bird watcher now, there’s a good chance you will be converted before the end of your safari. Bird watching in Africa is almost beyond belief. Some courtiers have recorded over 1000different species and some parks over 500.
The best time for bird watching is November and March in most areas. However, bird watching is very good year around.
Keen birders planning to visit southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Lesotho, Tanzania, Swaziland and Zimbabwe).
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING
Africa ha mountains to challenge tenderfoot, and the expert as well. Mt. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), 19,340feet in altitude, is the highest mountain in Afrika, followed by Mt. Kenya (Kenya) at 17,058feet. The Ruwenzori, or Mountain of the moon (Uganda/DRC), is the highest mountain chain in Afrika, rising to 16,794 feet. All of these mountains lie within a few degrees of the equator yet are snowcapped year around. Hiking through fascinating and unique Afro-alpine vegetation found on all of these mountains gives one the feeling of being on another planet.
SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING
Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and Mauritius offer excellent coral reef diving in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
In Kenya Malindi-Watamu Marine National Reserve is probably the best choice. For those willing to rough it, five-day dive trips on a live-aboard dhow are available from the southern Kenyan coast to Pemba Island (Tanzania).
The Natal coast of South Afrika has excellent coral reefs while the Southern Cape offers the ultimate underwater thrill of diving with great white sharks!
FISHING
Some of the finest deep-sea fishing in the world is found in Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya, off Pemba and Mafia Island (Tanzania), and off the island country of Mauritius.
Freshwater fishing for Nile perch (200+ pounds) and tiger fish (one of the best fighting fish in the world) is excellent in the Lake Tanganyika (especially near Zambia), Lakes Turkana and Victoria, and Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe). Trout fishing is very good in parks such as Nyanga (Zimbabwe) and the Aberdares (Kenya). Most fresh water fishing requires a license which can usually be obtained from your hotel, lodge or camp for a small fee.
OTHER SAFARIS
Additional option for special interest traveler includes anthropology, archeology, art, backpacking, camel safaris, etc.
AFRICA TRAVEL
There are many visions and firms such as Out Of Africa, African Queen, Gorillas in the Mist, etc. have kindled in the hearts of many people the flame of the desire for travel to Afrika.
A visit to Afrika allows you to experience nature at its finest almost devoid of human interference, living according to a natural rhythm of life that has remained basically unchanged since the begging of time.
At our deepest roots, the Afrika continent communities with our souls Travelers return home, not only with exciting stories and adventures to share with friends and family, but with the feeling of accomplishment, increased self-confidence and broader horizons from having ventured where few have gone. Here’s the kind of adventure about which many dream but few experience.
Having visited Afrika once, you too will want to return again to the peace, tranquility and adventure it has to offer. I invite you to explore with me the reasons for this never ceasing pull as we journey to some of the most fascinating places on the earth.
The time to visit Afrika is now. In spite of international efforts, poaching is still rampant. In addition, the continent is rapidly westernized, making it more and more difficult to see the indigenous peoples living as they have for thousands of years. Go now, while Afrika can still deliver all that is promised and more!
Afrika has such a tremendous variety of attractions that most everyone can find something fascinating to do. In addition to fabulous wildlife, Afrika boasts having one of the world’s largest waterfalls by volume (Victoria Falls), the world’s longest river (the Nile), the world’s largest intact caldera or crater Ngorongoro), the world’s highest mountain not part of a mountain range (Kilimanjaro), etc.
Afrika is huge. It is the second largest continent on the earth, covering over 20 percent of the world’s land surface. More than three times the size of the United States, it is also larger than Europe, the United States of Chine combined. No wonder it has so much to offer.
A visit to Afrika allows you to experience nature at its finest almost devoid of human interference, living according to a natural rhythm of life that has remained basically unchanged since the begging of time.
At our deepest roots, the Afrika continent communities with our souls Travelers return home, not only with exciting stories and adventures to share with friends and family, but with the feeling of accomplishment, increased self-confidence and broader horizons from having ventured where few have gone. Here’s the kind of adventure about which many dream but few experience.
Having visited Afrika once, you too will want to return again to the peace, tranquility and adventure it has to offer. I invite you to explore with me the reasons for this never ceasing pull as we journey to some of the most fascinating places on the earth.
The time to visit Afrika is now. In spite of international efforts, poaching is still rampant. In addition, the continent is rapidly westernized, making it more and more difficult to see the indigenous peoples living as they have for thousands of years. Go now, while Afrika can still deliver all that is promised and more!
Afrika has such a tremendous variety of attractions that most everyone can find something fascinating to do. In addition to fabulous wildlife, Afrika boasts having one of the world’s largest waterfalls by volume (Victoria Falls), the world’s longest river (the Nile), the world’s largest intact caldera or crater Ngorongoro), the world’s highest mountain not part of a mountain range (Kilimanjaro), etc.
Afrika is huge. It is the second largest continent on the earth, covering over 20 percent of the world’s land surface. More than three times the size of the United States, it is also larger than Europe, the United States of Chine combined. No wonder it has so much to offer.
Monday, January 4, 2010
THIS IS ALL ABOUT TRAVEL
So travel is above all a stimulant for the brain. A mind tonic. A soul revitaliser
Travel offers a repite from serious life citizenship....forget the mortgage, weeding the garden, feeding the cat and how much fibre you have in your diet. Just go. Free at last, if only for three weeks.
Travel also provides soul food for those who journey. The image we have are given of the world by the media is often of despair and destruction. But to travel is to stumble across scene after scene of such rugged splendour and timeless magnificence that your emotions overwhelm your senses. If this place exists then there is hope yet for the world.
To travel is to explore the many shadows of your psyche, for different people find beauty in different things....soul food comes in different packages.
The magic of travel is everywhere. The tragedy, the drama, the pathos of past human life haunts every grand ruin, and you feel the haunted or triumphant ghosts echoing in your every step.
Travel renews your sense of childlike wonder because the world indeed has many wonders. Sometimes wonder can be found on a small scale, a universe reflected on a drop of dew. Sometimes wonder is seen on a spectacular scale. To stand and absorb the massive prehistoric form of a mountain, is to feel for a moment like a mere speck of existence in the infinite continuum of the universe. To be humbled.
And to travel is to experience irony. The boredom on the face of the gondolier in Venice. A cleaner yawning as they sweep the floor of the Louvre.
Travel offers a repite from serious life citizenship....forget the mortgage, weeding the garden, feeding the cat and how much fibre you have in your diet. Just go. Free at last, if only for three weeks.
Travel also provides soul food for those who journey. The image we have are given of the world by the media is often of despair and destruction. But to travel is to stumble across scene after scene of such rugged splendour and timeless magnificence that your emotions overwhelm your senses. If this place exists then there is hope yet for the world.
To travel is to explore the many shadows of your psyche, for different people find beauty in different things....soul food comes in different packages.
The magic of travel is everywhere. The tragedy, the drama, the pathos of past human life haunts every grand ruin, and you feel the haunted or triumphant ghosts echoing in your every step.
Travel renews your sense of childlike wonder because the world indeed has many wonders. Sometimes wonder can be found on a small scale, a universe reflected on a drop of dew. Sometimes wonder is seen on a spectacular scale. To stand and absorb the massive prehistoric form of a mountain, is to feel for a moment like a mere speck of existence in the infinite continuum of the universe. To be humbled.
And to travel is to experience irony. The boredom on the face of the gondolier in Venice. A cleaner yawning as they sweep the floor of the Louvre.
From Highlands, Coast to Island(Cycling Expedition)
In he morning Monday 9th Feb., 11:05am me and my friend Jacob we left Arusha town ready to explore Northern & Southern Pare mountains, Mkomazi national park, West & East Usambara mountains, Tanga city, Pangani, Saadani national park, Bagamoyo, Zanzibar and Dar-es-salaam.
We had rough arrangement two day before including fix the bicycles, get a map, here camping gear, etc.
The cycling between Arusha- Moshi road 80km it was confidently because both of us we are familiar with the road. We had several stop for birds identification as it was a time when farmers preparer the farms for planting as they disturb and cult down the weeds they disturb the amphibians and other invertebrate which are the food to birds, we stop for 1 hour in Sanya when it was rain, we reached Moshi town 5:15pm.
We continue with our journey cycle through Moshi- Dar es Salaam road we had the closest view of white caped mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro. After 24km we reached Himo junction here we turn off right then we stopped and have a dinner from the women who sell the food during the night. After dinner we cycled for 15km in the dark by using our headlight but this isn’t safe to cycle during the night, we reach at the Kifaru village where we camp in somebody back yard.
In the next day we woke up 4:45am we made a coffee and start cycling 5:45am, 2km from where we overnight we turn left cycled towards north-east then east-south through the dirty road and Challenge Mountains. We passed through cultivated fields (Ma-Shamba) in Masiwa, Unyasa, Kwakoa and Gitingeni villages before joined the high way again at Gitengani. We cycled towards eat-south. After 25km we reached Same town ship. We had our dinner at Same then after our rice and beans dinner we cycled for 1km out of town and camp at the field.
We wake up early in the morning after having a cup of coffee we start cycling. In this day we cycled through the mountains of Southern Pare, cultivated valleys then after 30km we reached Kisiwani. Kisiwani village is boarded with the newest Mkomazi National Park formal Mkomazi Game Reserve situated in the acacia savannah between Southern Pare Mountains and Usambara Mountains, stretch north wards and share eco-system with Tsavo National Park in Kenya.
We kept on cycling through this beautiful and fascinating landscape with the reward of Flora and Fauna. As we cycled in the plains we was able to see clearly Shengena peak (2462m) and Hemwera (2137m)
The southern and Northern Pare Mountains named after the Pare people the inhabitants who believed to be the descendant of between Chagga/Maasai or Taita ethnics groups, migrate and made the home in these mountains. Both Northern & southern Pare mountains have the established culture tourism which organize and arrange different activities such as hiking, culture tour, natural work, etc.
We finished our day by cycled south-east through Mkomazi valley then North-east and camp at Mnazi village in Tanga region, northern slopes of Usambara Mountains.
In the following day we wakeup early after having a cup of coffee we broke down the tent and start cycling through the mountains and lush green forest of Usambara. In this dirt road we had the view of Lake Kalimawe and Mkomazi National Park. The Usambara slopes support a rich bird life as well as many species of colorful butterfly.
Cycling through shamba, forest and valleys passed villages we reached Msalaka village where we overnight.
Early in the morning in the next day after have the cup of coffee we start to cycle through the path in the forest. After 6 hours of cycling in the forest we reached Amani Natural Reserve Headquarter. We overnight here.
On Sunday of 14th Feb early in the morning we left Amani Natural Reserve descend for 35km in the dirt road where we passed the vehicles which have to go slowly due to the holes in the road. After 1 ½ hour, we reached the lowland at Muheza junction. We had the breakfast here then we take on another 37km to Tanga. In the late after noon we was cycling around Tanga city looking for somewhere to camp, after tried several places finally we find the Pamori Hotel which situated 5minuts walk to the shower of Indian ocean nearby the Tanga harbor. Actually they didn’t have the camping service but after long conversation with the man in the reception (Augustino Safe tinosafe@yahoo.com) he offers us the free camping ground with breakfast.
TANGA: The ruined mosques on Toten Island in the Tanga harbor indicate the presence of small trading center in the Omani and Shiraz eras as do similar ruins at several other sites within a 20km radius of the modern city. But, while it seems reasonable to assume that some sort of fishing settlement has existed on harbor main land for millennia there is no written or archaeological evidence of more substantial settlement prior to early 19th century. The city’s name which means “Sail” in Swahili is most probably derived from Mtangani; in the contemporary name for the nearby Tongini Ruins. It could well be that the foundation of the modern Tanga was linked to the decline and eventually abandonment of Mtangani.
By the mid 19th century, Tanga was an established and substantial center of the ivory trade neither as renowned as Pangani, nor as architecturally distinguished, but nevertheless sufficiently profitable to be governed by an agent of Sultan of Zanzibar.
Next day we spent to fix our bicycle in Tanga then in the evening we tried them for 15km to Amboni Caves. Amboni Caves probably the most extensive caves system in east Africa, and certain the most accessible and impressive.
After a finishing fixing our bicycle on 16th Feb. mid afternoon we left Tanga city. We Cycle towards east-south through the coast dirty road. We visit Tongoni Ruins 20km from Tanga. We continuo cycling heading pangani passed through the coastal forest, 35km from Tanga we reached Peponi Campsite in late evening. We camp at Peponi campsite which locates in the beach of Indian Ocean.
In the next day we spent the morning at the beautiful beach and boat trip for snookering. 01:16pm we left Peponi and cycle for short time, about 20km to Pangani. We overnight at Tinga Tinga lodge and Campsite.
Pangani in common with Bagamoyo further south that has been pivotal 19th century trade central that has been largely passed by 20th century development. Endowed with a number of crumbling old buildings, dating from earliest years of its existence through to the colonial era, Pangani retains the most traditional Swahili character of any port on the north coast. It also has a superb location, on the north bank of the mouth of the forest-fringed Pangani river where a gorgeous beach stretches northward as far as the can see.
In the morning of 18th Feb after having a breakfast in this ancient town we went to the ferry which was few meter from where we was sitting. As we was waiting the ferry to come in our side we met a Canadian(Otto Cootes www.mytb.org/otto-masher )who started cycling from Kenya then Uganda, Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania he planned to cycle up to India. After cross the Pangani River we cycle together for 93km then we stopped for lunch at Mkwaja village after having the lunch we continue to this sand road. After 20km from Mkwaja we reach Mbuyuni where there is an entrance gate for the recent established Saadani National Park.
We stopped at the gate for a while negotiating with game rangers who wanted us to pay the entrance fees, finally they let us pass.
We kept on cycling through the national park in the sand road, after 30km we reached Matipwili village just outside of the perk. From the village we take on 9km to Kisampa Lodge and Campsite where we had an invitation from Dk. Robby the own.
We spent two night at Kisampa be we crossed Wami river which hasn’t the connected bridge or ferry. Then we embark on 70km to Bagamoyo, we reached Bagamoyo ancient town 1:43pm after lunch we made tour around the town and visit the historical features such as Shiraz and German harbor, Arabs and Germans grave yard, the place where they used to lock up the slaves before ship them to Zanzibar market.
In the next day after breakfast we visit Kaole ruins and Museum the Back to Bagamoyo for lunch. After lunch Jacob who wanted to get back to Arusha to participate in Kili marathon left to Dar es Salaam with a Canadian man who will cross to Zanzibar.
Late evening I took a Dhow to Zanzibar, I spent the whole night at the ocean before reach stone town 9:40am. I had breakfast at stone town then I made a tour around visit the slave market, etc. In the mid after noon I cycled towards south for 90km passed through cloves and palms plantations I reached ras kasim mkazi in the late evening where I overnight.
In the following day I cycled back to stone town then took a boat to Dar es Salaam where I finished my cycling feasibility study.
I would like to say thanks Korogwe White Parrot Motel, Pamori Hotel, The student of Bagamoyo Art College, Kisampa Lodge & Campsite, Tinga Tinga Lodge & Campsite and all who support me in this cycling expedition.
We had rough arrangement two day before including fix the bicycles, get a map, here camping gear, etc.
The cycling between Arusha- Moshi road 80km it was confidently because both of us we are familiar with the road. We had several stop for birds identification as it was a time when farmers preparer the farms for planting as they disturb and cult down the weeds they disturb the amphibians and other invertebrate which are the food to birds, we stop for 1 hour in Sanya when it was rain, we reached Moshi town 5:15pm.
We continue with our journey cycle through Moshi- Dar es Salaam road we had the closest view of white caped mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro. After 24km we reached Himo junction here we turn off right then we stopped and have a dinner from the women who sell the food during the night. After dinner we cycled for 15km in the dark by using our headlight but this isn’t safe to cycle during the night, we reach at the Kifaru village where we camp in somebody back yard.
In the next day we woke up 4:45am we made a coffee and start cycling 5:45am, 2km from where we overnight we turn left cycled towards north-east then east-south through the dirty road and Challenge Mountains. We passed through cultivated fields (Ma-Shamba) in Masiwa, Unyasa, Kwakoa and Gitingeni villages before joined the high way again at Gitengani. We cycled towards eat-south. After 25km we reached Same town ship. We had our dinner at Same then after our rice and beans dinner we cycled for 1km out of town and camp at the field.
We wake up early in the morning after having a cup of coffee we start cycling. In this day we cycled through the mountains of Southern Pare, cultivated valleys then after 30km we reached Kisiwani. Kisiwani village is boarded with the newest Mkomazi National Park formal Mkomazi Game Reserve situated in the acacia savannah between Southern Pare Mountains and Usambara Mountains, stretch north wards and share eco-system with Tsavo National Park in Kenya.
We kept on cycling through this beautiful and fascinating landscape with the reward of Flora and Fauna. As we cycled in the plains we was able to see clearly Shengena peak (2462m) and Hemwera (2137m)
The southern and Northern Pare Mountains named after the Pare people the inhabitants who believed to be the descendant of between Chagga/Maasai or Taita ethnics groups, migrate and made the home in these mountains. Both Northern & southern Pare mountains have the established culture tourism which organize and arrange different activities such as hiking, culture tour, natural work, etc.
We finished our day by cycled south-east through Mkomazi valley then North-east and camp at Mnazi village in Tanga region, northern slopes of Usambara Mountains.
In the following day we wakeup early after having a cup of coffee we broke down the tent and start cycling through the mountains and lush green forest of Usambara. In this dirt road we had the view of Lake Kalimawe and Mkomazi National Park. The Usambara slopes support a rich bird life as well as many species of colorful butterfly.
Cycling through shamba, forest and valleys passed villages we reached Msalaka village where we overnight.
Early in the morning in the next day after have the cup of coffee we start to cycle through the path in the forest. After 6 hours of cycling in the forest we reached Amani Natural Reserve Headquarter. We overnight here.
On Sunday of 14th Feb early in the morning we left Amani Natural Reserve descend for 35km in the dirt road where we passed the vehicles which have to go slowly due to the holes in the road. After 1 ½ hour, we reached the lowland at Muheza junction. We had the breakfast here then we take on another 37km to Tanga. In the late after noon we was cycling around Tanga city looking for somewhere to camp, after tried several places finally we find the Pamori Hotel which situated 5minuts walk to the shower of Indian ocean nearby the Tanga harbor. Actually they didn’t have the camping service but after long conversation with the man in the reception (Augustino Safe tinosafe@yahoo.com) he offers us the free camping ground with breakfast.
TANGA: The ruined mosques on Toten Island in the Tanga harbor indicate the presence of small trading center in the Omani and Shiraz eras as do similar ruins at several other sites within a 20km radius of the modern city. But, while it seems reasonable to assume that some sort of fishing settlement has existed on harbor main land for millennia there is no written or archaeological evidence of more substantial settlement prior to early 19th century. The city’s name which means “Sail” in Swahili is most probably derived from Mtangani; in the contemporary name for the nearby Tongini Ruins. It could well be that the foundation of the modern Tanga was linked to the decline and eventually abandonment of Mtangani.
By the mid 19th century, Tanga was an established and substantial center of the ivory trade neither as renowned as Pangani, nor as architecturally distinguished, but nevertheless sufficiently profitable to be governed by an agent of Sultan of Zanzibar.
Next day we spent to fix our bicycle in Tanga then in the evening we tried them for 15km to Amboni Caves. Amboni Caves probably the most extensive caves system in east Africa, and certain the most accessible and impressive.
After a finishing fixing our bicycle on 16th Feb. mid afternoon we left Tanga city. We Cycle towards east-south through the coast dirty road. We visit Tongoni Ruins 20km from Tanga. We continuo cycling heading pangani passed through the coastal forest, 35km from Tanga we reached Peponi Campsite in late evening. We camp at Peponi campsite which locates in the beach of Indian Ocean.
In the next day we spent the morning at the beautiful beach and boat trip for snookering. 01:16pm we left Peponi and cycle for short time, about 20km to Pangani. We overnight at Tinga Tinga lodge and Campsite.
Pangani in common with Bagamoyo further south that has been pivotal 19th century trade central that has been largely passed by 20th century development. Endowed with a number of crumbling old buildings, dating from earliest years of its existence through to the colonial era, Pangani retains the most traditional Swahili character of any port on the north coast. It also has a superb location, on the north bank of the mouth of the forest-fringed Pangani river where a gorgeous beach stretches northward as far as the can see.
In the morning of 18th Feb after having a breakfast in this ancient town we went to the ferry which was few meter from where we was sitting. As we was waiting the ferry to come in our side we met a Canadian(Otto Cootes www.mytb.org/otto-masher )who started cycling from Kenya then Uganda, Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania he planned to cycle up to India. After cross the Pangani River we cycle together for 93km then we stopped for lunch at Mkwaja village after having the lunch we continue to this sand road. After 20km from Mkwaja we reach Mbuyuni where there is an entrance gate for the recent established Saadani National Park.
We stopped at the gate for a while negotiating with game rangers who wanted us to pay the entrance fees, finally they let us pass.
We kept on cycling through the national park in the sand road, after 30km we reached Matipwili village just outside of the perk. From the village we take on 9km to Kisampa Lodge and Campsite where we had an invitation from Dk. Robby the own.
We spent two night at Kisampa be we crossed Wami river which hasn’t the connected bridge or ferry. Then we embark on 70km to Bagamoyo, we reached Bagamoyo ancient town 1:43pm after lunch we made tour around the town and visit the historical features such as Shiraz and German harbor, Arabs and Germans grave yard, the place where they used to lock up the slaves before ship them to Zanzibar market.
In the next day after breakfast we visit Kaole ruins and Museum the Back to Bagamoyo for lunch. After lunch Jacob who wanted to get back to Arusha to participate in Kili marathon left to Dar es Salaam with a Canadian man who will cross to Zanzibar.
Late evening I took a Dhow to Zanzibar, I spent the whole night at the ocean before reach stone town 9:40am. I had breakfast at stone town then I made a tour around visit the slave market, etc. In the mid after noon I cycled towards south for 90km passed through cloves and palms plantations I reached ras kasim mkazi in the late evening where I overnight.
In the following day I cycled back to stone town then took a boat to Dar es Salaam where I finished my cycling feasibility study.
I would like to say thanks Korogwe White Parrot Motel, Pamori Hotel, The student of Bagamoyo Art College, Kisampa Lodge & Campsite, Tinga Tinga Lodge & Campsite and all who support me in this cycling expedition.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Rock Painting
Central Tanzania is part of tectonically, isolated granite hills and rocks formed by remnants of the Precambrian basement that extended north to Lake Victoria.
The region have been habited by different ethnics group include Wasi, Wa-Rangi, Wa-Sandawe, Wa-Gogo, Wa-Mbugwe, Wa-Nyiramba, Baribaigi(Wa Mang’ati), Hadzabe(Wa-Habesh or Wa-Tindiga) and Wa-Nyaturu.
Their culture is noted in long history of the region since Stone Age period.
Today, the region is characterized by diverse culture that has evolved through interactions between Khoisan, Bantu and Nito-Hamite.
It is not quite clear which group was the first in the region. What we know is our ancestors occupied the region since middle Stone Age time 2,000 to 3,000 years ago. People have been adopting for many years to the changing condition by adopting at different technology and tradition.
The region is well known for it finest rock paintings, thought to have been the work of ancestors of today’s Sandawe people.
The rock art of Central Tanzania is the most extensive in East Africa and rank the 2rd in the prehistoric art of Africa.
The Stone Age painters recreated the world around them in scenes. The painting extended from Kondoa district to Iramba and northern parts of Singida districts.
Since 2006 Kondoa rock art painting were declared a world Heritage.
VALUE AND FUTURE OF ROCK ART.
Much of the early rock art predates writing and even oral remembered history. It is all that is now left to tell us of our ancestor’s views of their world, the visions of realty, their values and beliefs. The art is in fact a form of early visually communication.
These paintings are not merely symbols; many often portray great skill in their form and determination and demonstrate the artist’s goals and talents of our ancestors.
In spite sun, wind and rain, many of these works have survived for about seven thousand years on the exposed rocks. Almost certainly, the large red and cream colored animal paintings found in central Tanzania represent the oldest existing art in East Africa. How longer will they last, depend very large on us. The art will only survive if the environment is conserved and valued by all who counter it.
WHAT MEANS THE ART
As difficult it is to determine why artist paint it is even more difficult to ascertain what was the purpose of this rock art. Most researchers have suggested symbolic values that expressed the artist’s deepest religious feelings and conceptions of reality. This, it is argued it was shamanic in nature involving control of the elements and community hilling.
However, other underlying purposes of rock art are more obscure, but they may well symbolize objects of reference. If ancient Egyptians used pictorial presentations as a system of writing and keeping records, can’t we say that these also were our ancestor’s form of writing and object of reference?
WHO MADE THE PAITINGS?
The identity of the artists and the date of their work are not clear. However, several scholars have attributed them to Khoisan hunter-gatherers, the ancestors of today Sandawe and Hadzabe population of the region. In the Kaokaveld of northern Namibia mountain “Omukuruwaro” “mountain of Gods” (as known by indigenous), today “Brandberg”(2574m highest in Namibia). There Meek’s cave which it had long been known to Sun as the “Cave of Memory” The cave is thought to have been a ceremonial place. It hosts a giant rock frieze 16ft long and 8ft. high which had been painted on by many generations of artists. The rock painting at Twyfelfontein in Namibia in 2007 was also declared World Heritage by UNESCO.
What is known is that over many millennia, a great diversity of people has come together in East Africa. It is after 3,000 years ago, when we had the earliest cultivating and animal keeping community in the region. Interaction between these people and the hunter-gatherers remain speculative.
HOW OLD ARE THE PAINTINGS?
More than 6,000 years old. The Brandberg at Maack’s shelter rock paintings (famous as “White lady”) in Namibia are estimated be between 2,000 to 4,000 years old.
RAPIDY CHANGE
When Dr. Leakey visited Kondoa 1929 the plains were still rich in games including giraffe, eland, roan antelope, kudu, zebra, etc. But six years later, even dik dik had disappeared; mostly due to the British Admiration tse tse fly campaign. Today, the animals population had bit recovered. This can be seen as one driving from Maasai steppe towards Kondoa and from Kondoa towards East to Manyoni. Although animal’s population faces several circumstances due to the expansion of the human activities in the region.
The region have been habited by different ethnics group include Wasi, Wa-Rangi, Wa-Sandawe, Wa-Gogo, Wa-Mbugwe, Wa-Nyiramba, Baribaigi(Wa Mang’ati), Hadzabe(Wa-Habesh or Wa-Tindiga) and Wa-Nyaturu.
Their culture is noted in long history of the region since Stone Age period.
Today, the region is characterized by diverse culture that has evolved through interactions between Khoisan, Bantu and Nito-Hamite.
It is not quite clear which group was the first in the region. What we know is our ancestors occupied the region since middle Stone Age time 2,000 to 3,000 years ago. People have been adopting for many years to the changing condition by adopting at different technology and tradition.
The region is well known for it finest rock paintings, thought to have been the work of ancestors of today’s Sandawe people.
The rock art of Central Tanzania is the most extensive in East Africa and rank the 2rd in the prehistoric art of Africa.
The Stone Age painters recreated the world around them in scenes. The painting extended from Kondoa district to Iramba and northern parts of Singida districts.
Since 2006 Kondoa rock art painting were declared a world Heritage.
VALUE AND FUTURE OF ROCK ART.
Much of the early rock art predates writing and even oral remembered history. It is all that is now left to tell us of our ancestor’s views of their world, the visions of realty, their values and beliefs. The art is in fact a form of early visually communication.
These paintings are not merely symbols; many often portray great skill in their form and determination and demonstrate the artist’s goals and talents of our ancestors.
In spite sun, wind and rain, many of these works have survived for about seven thousand years on the exposed rocks. Almost certainly, the large red and cream colored animal paintings found in central Tanzania represent the oldest existing art in East Africa. How longer will they last, depend very large on us. The art will only survive if the environment is conserved and valued by all who counter it.
WHAT MEANS THE ART
As difficult it is to determine why artist paint it is even more difficult to ascertain what was the purpose of this rock art. Most researchers have suggested symbolic values that expressed the artist’s deepest religious feelings and conceptions of reality. This, it is argued it was shamanic in nature involving control of the elements and community hilling.
However, other underlying purposes of rock art are more obscure, but they may well symbolize objects of reference. If ancient Egyptians used pictorial presentations as a system of writing and keeping records, can’t we say that these also were our ancestor’s form of writing and object of reference?
WHO MADE THE PAITINGS?
The identity of the artists and the date of their work are not clear. However, several scholars have attributed them to Khoisan hunter-gatherers, the ancestors of today Sandawe and Hadzabe population of the region. In the Kaokaveld of northern Namibia mountain “Omukuruwaro” “mountain of Gods” (as known by indigenous), today “Brandberg”(2574m highest in Namibia). There Meek’s cave which it had long been known to Sun as the “Cave of Memory” The cave is thought to have been a ceremonial place. It hosts a giant rock frieze 16ft long and 8ft. high which had been painted on by many generations of artists. The rock painting at Twyfelfontein in Namibia in 2007 was also declared World Heritage by UNESCO.
What is known is that over many millennia, a great diversity of people has come together in East Africa. It is after 3,000 years ago, when we had the earliest cultivating and animal keeping community in the region. Interaction between these people and the hunter-gatherers remain speculative.
HOW OLD ARE THE PAINTINGS?
More than 6,000 years old. The Brandberg at Maack’s shelter rock paintings (famous as “White lady”) in Namibia are estimated be between 2,000 to 4,000 years old.
RAPIDY CHANGE
When Dr. Leakey visited Kondoa 1929 the plains were still rich in games including giraffe, eland, roan antelope, kudu, zebra, etc. But six years later, even dik dik had disappeared; mostly due to the British Admiration tse tse fly campaign. Today, the animals population had bit recovered. This can be seen as one driving from Maasai steppe towards Kondoa and from Kondoa towards East to Manyoni. Although animal’s population faces several circumstances due to the expansion of the human activities in the region.
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