Africa has several mountains but the most popular, famous and the highest free standing mountains in the world are mt Kilimanjaro and mt Kenya.
MOUNTAIN KILIMANJORO.
Since its official opening in 1977, Kilimanjaro National Park has become one of Tanzania’s most visited parks. Unlike the other northern parks, this isn’t for the wildlife although wildlife is there. Rather, it’s to gaze in awe in the mountain on the equator capped with snow, and to take advantage of the chance to climb to the top of Africa.
At the heart of the park is the 5896m Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and one of the continent’s magnificent sights. It’s also one of the highest volcanoes and among the highest freestanding mountains in the world, rising from cultivated farmlands on the lower levels, through lush rainforest to alpine meadows, and final across barren lunar landscape to the twin summits of Kibo and Mawenzi. The lower rainforest is home to many animals, including buffaloes, leopards and monkeys, and eland are occasionally seen in the saddle are between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
At trek up Kili lures hundreds of trekkers each years, in part because it’s possible to walk all the way to the summit without ropes or technical climbing experience. Yet, the climb is a serious (as well as expensive) undertaking, and only worth doing with the right preparation.
The Kilimanjaro massif has an oval base about 40m to 60km across, and rises almost 500m above the surrounding plains. The two main peak areas are Kibo, the dome at the central of the massif, which dips inwards to from a crater that can’t be seen from below, and Mawenzi, a group of jagged pinnacles on the eastern side. A third peak, Shira, on the western end of the massif, is lower and less distinct than Kibo and Mawenzi. The highest point on Kibo is Uhuru peak, the goal for most trekkers. The highest point on Mawenzi, Hans Mayer point (5149m), cannot be reached by trekkers, and is only rarely visited by mountaineers
Kilimanjaro is considered an extinct volcano, although it still releases stream and sulphur from vents in the crater centre.
As Africa’s highest peak and most identifiable land mark, Kilimanjaro offers an irresistible challenge to many tourists. Dozens of visitors to Tanzania set off for Uhuru peak every day, ranging from teenager to prisoners (a seven-year-old boy recently become the youngest person to reach the summit), and those who make it generally regard the achievement to be the highlight of their time in the country. A major part Kilimanjaro attraction is that any reasonably fit person stands a fair chance of reaching the top. The ascent requires no special climbing skill or experience: on the contrary, it basically amounts to a long uphill slog over four days, followed by a more rapid descent.
The relative ease of climbing Kilimanjaro should not lull travelers into thinking of the ascent as some sort of prolonged Sunday stroll. It is a seriously tough hike; belittle the health risks attached to being at an altitude of above 4,000m. It should also be recognized that there is no much thing as a cheap Kilimanjaro climb. Indeed, following the doubling of entrance fees to the park for 2006, the minimum amount payable in the park fees alone (entrance, camping, guide, porter and rescue) is in excess of US$700 per person for a standard five-day hike up the relatively cheap to put together a reasonably well-equipped package at much under US$ 950 per person, and small group and/or those using top-notch operators and/or those using the more obscure route should be prepared to pay considerably more!
Mt Kilimanjaro at 5896m {19344ft} it is the highest mountain and extinct volcano in Africa. Mt Kilimanjaro standing high and
majestic in the clear blue African sky , with its huge dome of snow Mt Kilimanjaro is free standing mountain in the world and
Challenge to all climber, whether experienced or first timer.
There are two main routes up to mt Kilimanjaro Marangu the ''Bear'' rout and Machame the ''whiskey'' rout. The Marangu rout is
often climber and you will meet parties of climbers traveling from each direction. Accommodation is in typical huts, with shared
room and facilities controlled by the National park authorities. On summit day successful climber will reach Gillman's point and
Proceed to Uhuru peak at the very summit of the mountain. The machame rout is often used. Zion Tanzania arranges full porter
Service with private tent at ever stage there are portable toilet facilities and the cuisine is provided by the professional cocker.
Rising from surrounding plains like a mirage, the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro only three degrees south of the Equator were believed for years to be nothing but fanful tales. Snow on the Equator? "Impossible”, snorted the Victorian armchair explorers of London’s Geographical Society.
How wrong they proved to be. Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. It is actually three volcanoes in one: Kibo, the youngest, highest, and most central point at 5,896 meters (19,340 feet); Mawenzi in the east at 5,149 meters (16,886 feet); and the western Shira, 3,962 meters (12,999 feet). Previously thought to be extinct, the mountain is in fact dormant and may yet have the capacity to erupt as all three undoubtedly did during their formation.
From the time of first mention several thousand years ago by Ptolemy; the snows of Kilimanjaro have continued to attract explorers, scientists, adventurers, climbers, and tourists from around the world. With its white mantle dominating the horizon, Kilimanjaro, as much as wildlife that lives and feeds in its shadow, has come to symbolize the continent of Africa.
Kilimanjaro is a comparatively young mountain, about 750,000 years old. The Chagga who live around its base tell the legend of how Mawenzi borrowed embers from his younger brother Kibo in order to light his pipe, suggesting that there may have been fire and brimstone on Kilimanjaro as recently as the Stone Age. Unfortunately myth often suffers at the meaning of the hands of empirical science, and geological surveys do not support the story.
There are as may explanations for the meaning of the word Kilimanjaro as there are hiking routes up the mountain. One of the more popular translations is the Swahili "mountains of greatness". It has also been taken to mean "mountains of caravans" (KILIMA= mountain and NJARO=caravan); a landmark for the caravans which traveled the interior looking for slaves. A third hypothesis is that while KILIMA means mountain, NJARO is the name of a demon that created cold. The result; “of the demon Njaro" or “of the evil spirit". And finally, that njaro comes from the Maasai word meaning "springs" or "water". Kilimanjaro could then be taken to mean "mountain of water".
Caravan, water, evil spirits-whatever the meaning for such a towering mountain Kilimanjaro managed to stay well-hidden from prying Western eyes for centuries. Fist mention of it comes from the Greeks, who describe a "great snow mountain" at the beginning of the Common Era. A second reference is not found until a thousand years letter, when a Chinese chronicler notes that the country to the west of Zanzibar "reaches to a great mountain".
Undoubtedly the snowy peaks were being seen by increasing numbers as the Arab search for gold, ivory and slaves penetrated the interior of the continent.
With the arrival of Vasco da Gama in 1497, the Portuguese soon succeeded the Arabs as the ruling force in East Africa. Based on rumor and Portuguese exploration, Spanish geographer Fernandes de Encisco wrote "West of (Mombosa) is the Ethiopia Mount Olympus, which is very high, and father off are the Mountains of the Moon in which are the sources of the Nile".
It was this same search for the Nile source, along with a burning zeal to spread the word of God that 300 years later paved the way for the opening of the continent and a first-hand look by Westerners at the majestic Kilimanjaro.
The first European to glimpse the snowy mountain was Johannes Rebman, a missionary determined to convert all of Africa to Christianity. Armed with his umbrella and Bible, he set off for a land called Jagga to establish a mission.
He had been told that there was a mountain in Jagga full of dlins and evil spirits. Gunpowder would not fire on its slopes, legs stiffened, and people died from encounters with the djins there was once a king who sent a large number of his subjects to examine the white substance that lies on the top of the mountain. Only one returned, a man named Sabaya. According to Sabaya all his companions mysteriously disappeared during the ascent. He continued until he saw a large door studded with iron spikes. The door was open but he was too weak and frightened to enter. He returned down the mountain, but along the way his hands and feet were destroyed and he become cripple for life.
Despite the stories, Rebman persevered on 11 May 1848; he approached the high mountains of Jaggaland. "At about ten o'clock", he recalls, "I thought I saw one of the clouds. My guide simply describes the whiteness that I saw as cold (baridi); and it was as good as certain to me that it could be nothing else but snow".
Rebman's discovery was published in the Church Missionary Intelligencer in May 1849, and was greeted with interest and disbelief. Some went to trouble to prove "scientifically" that snow at the Equator was impossible and the white summit was northing more than an optical illusion created by the reflection of quartz cliffs, limestone rocks, or crystal. Because of his seemingly far-fetched claims, Rebman was subject to ridicule and derision and it would take another twelve years before the scientific sceptic eventually conceded to the accuracy of his observations.
The first attempt to scale Kilimanjaro was undertaken in June 1861 by the German explorer Baron Karl Klaus von der Decken, who climbed to about 4,300 meters (14,108 feet) before turning back near the snow line.
The first person to leave his footprints in the snow was missionary Charles New. He reached an area between Kibo and Mawenzi called the Saddle is a gravel desert, evidence of the snows of Kilimanjaro retreat and perhaps the threat of global warming). New was the first to refer to the five different vegetation zones that exist on the mountain.
The summit was first scaled on 5 October 1889 by the Leipzing geographer Hans Meyer and the Austrian mountaineer Ludwing Purtscheller.
Between 1889 and 1927 only twenty three people set foot on the summit of Kibo. Within ten years this figure trebled. After 1928 the numbers began to multiply so frequently it become impossible to maintain any sort of accurate record.
With the construction of huts up the mountain side and the opening of nine main routes, climbing Kilimanjaro has increased in popularity and thousands over the years have attempted to conquer its wintry peaks via the old and well-known path or, like Reinhold Messer one of mountaineering’s true stars by scaling the 1,524 meter (5,000 feet) treacherous Breach Wall. In recognition of the mountain’s grandeur and beauty Kilimanjaro was designated a national park in 1973.
Kilimanjaro owes its existence to the formation of the Great Rift Valley. About 750,000 years ago lava began to flow from deep fractures in the Earth's crust at three main centers: Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo. Their cones grew for thousands of years, eventually reaching 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) about 500,000 years ago. Shira was the first become extinct; it eventually collapsed and was covered by material from the other two volcanoes. Mawenzi and Kibo continued to grow, their lava intermingling to form the "saddle" which stretches between the two peaks.
Mawenzi was the next to die, but not before an enormous explosion ripped away the entire eastern rim, forming a spectacular gorge. Lava later seeped through the, leading Mawenzi its jagged profile.
Eventually (450,000 years ago) even Kibo succumbed to volcanic aging and ceased to grow. A huge landslide 100,000 years ago carried away part of the summit and created the huge Kibo Barranco. Then, in one final gush of activity, a puff of smoke placed a perfect cone of ash around Kibo's rim
Ice, as well as fire, has helped shape the summit of Kilimanjaro. At one point in the time an unbroken sheet of ice covered the mountain down to 3,000 meters (9,840 feet). The snow of Kilimanjaro is in fast retreat however, the glacier has lost their definition and the crater is often bare. Even so, with four square kilometers of glaciers, the mountains possesses about one-fifth of all natural ice in Africa.
The Climb
The most popular route is via Marangu and usually takes five days for round trip. Kilimanjaro can be climbed by almost anyone who is reasonably fit.
Starting at the Marangu Gate some 5kkm from the village of the same name, the so-called ‘tourist route’ is the most popular way to the top of Kilimanjaro, largely because it is less arduous than most of the alternatives, as well as having better facilities and being cheap to climb. Marangu is also probably the safer route, due to the volume of other climbers and good rescue facilities relative to more obscure routes, and it offers a better chance of seeing some wildlife. It is the only route where you can sleep in proper huts throughout, with bathing water and bottled drinks normally available too. The main drawback of the Marangu route it is heavily tramped by comparison with other routes, for which reason many people complain that it can feel overcrowded.
The summit, for those who persevere until the better cold end, is usually Gillman's Points, which is 213 meters (700 feet) lower then the actual summit, Uhuru Peak. More experienced climbers take the frequently dangerous crater rim ridge walk all the way to Uhuru and the roof of Africa.
DAY ONE; Plan on spending one or two hours at Marangu Gate Headquarters for registration and payment of fees. It is best to start early in the morning to avoid the rain showers that fall in the afternoon. From Marangu Gate at 18,000 meters (5,904 feet), the cleared trail leads through lush rainforest. Wildlife is limited due to the heavy foot traffic. An alternative route branches off through the forest after the gate and follows the edge of a steam through undergrowth. About an hour and half from the gate it is possible to cross the stream and rejoin the main trail, or remain walking along the forest trail. Both paths continue on opposite sides of the stream, merging one hour before Mandara Hut, located at 2,700 meters (8,856 feet). From Mandara Huts it is a short walk to the Maundi Crater. Those who have the energy and rewarded with beautiful scenery and the sight of the massive protea flower.
DAY TWO; The morning of the second day is spent walking over the steep slopes and rushing streams of the giant healthier forest, after which the track open out into the southern slopes of Mawenzi running through a band of moorland. Five hours and fourteen kilometers (nine miles) from Mandara bring you to Horombo Huts at 3,810 meters (12,500 feet). (To call the Mandara and Horombo accommodation "huts" is being slightly unfair; they more closely resemble chalets and can sleep 200 people.)
There are a numbers of good reasons for staying an extra night at Horombo: the most important is to become acclimatized to the altitude and reduce your chances of sickness. There are also several interesting features in the area well worth visiting, including the Zebra Rocks, a low cliff 1.5 kilometers (one mile) away with vertical stripes of contrasting colors caused by differential rain flow. Below the huts are cul-de-sac lava tunnels with glass walls that are worth exploring. Finally, the number of bunks at Horombo makes it the most comfortable of all the huts on the mountain.
DAY THREE: A valley behind Horombo leads straight up to the barren and rock-strewn Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi passing Zebra Rocks on the way. It is thirteen kilometers (eight miles) and seven hours to Kibo Hurt at 4,725 meters (15,500 feet), reached by taking the left fork just after a rain gauge at the start of the Saddle
DAY FOUR: The trail to the summit lies directly behind Kibo Hurt to the west. The climb begins shortly after midnight for two reasons: 1) to see the sun rise over Mawenzi from the top of Kibo and 2) the loose stone screen is frozen, making it easier to climber over. The first part of the trail is uneven and leads to Hans Meyer Cave, a good place to try and catch what little breath you have left. From the cave the path switchbacks most of the way to the top, with a last scramble over rocks to Johannes' Notch and Gillman's Point. From there the trail continues along the rim past Stella Point to the triumphant Uhuru Peak. After enjoying the view from the top of Africa, hikers make a speedy return to Horombo Hut.
DAY FIVE: The descent continues from Horombo to Mandara Hut, which is reached by lunch time, then proceeds to the park gate and Marangu in the afternoon.
Machame Route
In recent years, the Machame Route has grown greatly in the popularity. It is widely regarded to be the most scenic viable ascent route, with great views across to Meru, and as a whole it is relatively gradual, requiring at least six –seven days for the full ascent and descent. Short sections are steeper and slightly more difficult than any part of the Marangu route, but this is compensated for by the longer period for acclimatization.
The route is named after the village of Machame, from where it is a two-hour to the park gate (1,950m). The company will provide transport as far as the gate, from where it’s six to eight hours trek through thick forest to Machame Hut, which lies on the edge of the moorland zone at 2,890m. The second day of this trail consists of a 9km, four to six hour hike trough the moorland zone of Shira Plateau to Shira Hut (3,840), which is near a stream. Once again, here is camping.
From Shira, a number of options exist: you could spend your third night at Lava Tower Hut (4,630m) four hours from Shira, but the ascent to the Summit from there is teak and only advisable if you are experienced and have good equipment. A less arduous option is to spend your third night at Barranco Campsite (3,950m), a tough 12kkm, six hours hike from Shira, then to go on to Karanga campsite four hours from Barranco or to Barafu Hut (4,600m) on the four or five day, a walk of approximately seven hours. From barafu, it is normal to begin the steep seven to eight hours climb to Stella Point (5,735m) at midnight, so that you arrive sunrise, continuing on to Uhuru Peak, a two hour round trip, before hiking back to Mweka Hut via Barafu afternoon. This day can involve up to 16 hours of walking altogether. After spend your six or seven day at Mweka Hut (3,800m), you will descend the mountain on the seven or six day via the Mweka Route, a four to six hours walk.
The company will provide you with camping equipment and employ enough potters to carry the camp and set it up.
Rongai Route
The only route ascending Kilimanjaro from the northeast. Items of gradients, it is probably less physically demanding than the Marangu Route, and the scenery, with views over the Tsavo Plains, is regarded to be as beautiful. The Rongai Route can be covered over five days, with equally good if not better conditions for acclimatization than the Marangu Route, through as with Marangu the odds of reaching the summit improve if you opt for an additional day. The route start at the village of Nale Moru (2,000m) near the Kenyan border, from where the footpath leads through cultivated fields and plantation forest before entering the montane forest zone, where black and white colobas monkeys are frequently encountered. The first campsite is reached after between five and six hours, and lie at about 2,700mm on the frontier of the forest and moorland zone. On the five day hike, the second day involves a gentle five to six hours ascent, through an area of moorland where elephants are sometimes seen, to Third Cave campsite (3,500m). On the third day, it’s a four to five hours walk to School Campsite (4,750m) at the base of Kibo, with the option of camping here or else continuing to the nearby Kibo Hut, which is more crowded but more commodious. The ascent from here is identical to the Marangu Route. A six-day variation on the above route involves spending the second night at Kikelewa Caves (3,6600m, six to seven hours walk), a night at Mawenzi Tarn near the synonymous peak (4,330m, four hours walk), then crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo the five day route at School Campsite
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Cross Tanzania Cyicling Expedation
Tanzania is a virtual litany of Africa’s most evocative place names; Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Selous, Ngorongoro Crater (caldera), Oldupai Gorge, Gombe stream, Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa, the Rift Valley, the Maasai steppe… In short Tanzania is the Afrika you have always dreamed; vast plains teeming with wild animals; rain forests alive with cackling birds and monkeys; Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak rising dramatically above the flat scrubland; colorful Maasai herding their cattle alongside herds of grazing wildebeest; perfect palm-lined beaches lapped by the clear warm water of Indian Ocean stretching as for as the eye can see.
The expedition was aimed to create the cycling route from Kilimanjaro Mountain to the southern Tanzania Zambia border. In this route, we consider less traffic road (minor road, rough road or path), accommodation in the route, security, attractions and interesting features.
I did this expedition 2010 with for southern Africa people who called themselves FREEDOM CHALLENGE. They helped to record the route in advance by using the GPS and pictures scouted the route a heard of time. For more bicycle tours and safaris https://www.elmundosafaris.com.
1st Day MACHAME GATE – TINGATINGA
We started 06dec 08 9:00hrs at Machame gate a few kilometers from the gate we turn off right at Kalali village we cross the bridge which connects Kalali village and Uswa village. Kikavu is the river that crosses between these two villages; it offers the beautiful river rein forest fig., eucalyptus trees, birds and monkey. We passed through the chain of villages Uswaa, Muuni and Lukani then we meet the Tamarac road. In the southern slope of Kilimanjaro, the lower slopes were probably once forested, but are now covered in cultivation. The volcanic soil makes them highly fertile and they support a dense human population. In the village, we meet the weekly market where people come from other villages for exchanging.
From where we meet the tarmac road we turn off right we followed this road leading towards the north, West Kilimanjaro in the plain of west Kilimanjaro we saw elephants, giraffe, gazelle and plain birds such as ostrich, kori bustard secretary bird, etc. West Kilimanjaro supports a near-pristine cover of lightly wooded acacia savannah where maasai herdsman co-exist with a remarkable variety of wildlife, including wildebeest, zebra, eland, impala, Grant’s gazelle, hartebeest, and yellow baboon, as well as one of the few Tanzania populations of the remarkable stretch-necked gerenuk
We reach TingaTinga village late evening we overnight at Ndarakwai camp. We cover 100km.
2nd Day TINGATINGA- LONGIDO-KITUMBEINE
After breakfast 7hrs we start to ride from TingaTinga village heading towards southwest passed through acacia bushland. The road is good for riding a bicycle, after acacia bushes, we come across Longido plain where we find large herds of zebra, wildebeest and gazelle we ride towards Longido Mountain (2629m) then North West around the mountain
towards Longido town which located west south of the mountain. We stop Longido town for cold drink and lunch then we drive to Kitumbeine village 52km from Longido town. Kitumbeine is the village which locates in the eastern slope of the mountain Kitumbeine Mountain (2865m). We overnight at Kitumbeine campsite.
3rd Day KITUMBEINE-ENGARUKA
After breakfast early in the morning, we start to ride from Kitumbeine village towards east north around the mountain up and down passed through dry savannah acacia bushes we saw large mammals such as gerenuk, elephant and different species of birds. After four hours of riding, we reach Gelai village this also is a village found in the slope of the mountain Gelai (2941m). After a short break we ride towards southwest descend from Gelai village then plain nearby Oldonyo Lengai Mountain (2878m) then we meet the road from Mto wa Mbu to Lake Natron via Engaruka. From the junction we drive to Lake Natron for flamingo viewing and come bark to Engaruka village in the plain we saw the large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle these was part of migratory herds. In the down, we reach Engaruka village.
Engaruka village on the eastern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area near the foot of Empakai is a small village known for its extensive ruins of the complex irrigation systems with terraced stone housing sites estimated to be at least 500 years old. Scientists are not sure of the origin of the ruins, some speculate they were built by ancestors of the Iraqw people, who live in the area today, while others suggest that the site was built by Sonjo, a Bantu speaking people.
4th Day ENGARUKA-KARATU
In the morning we start to ride left the Engaruka village beyond us, we passed through the plain alongside Rift Valley wall. The plain was green scatted Maasai boma, herds of zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle, plain bird’s ostrich, kori bastard, secretary bird, etc. Then we reach the plain village called Silalei which situated 20km from Mto wa Mbu town. Late afternoon we reached Mto wa Mbu town.
Mto wa Mbu (River if Mosquitoes) is a small village redeemed from scruffiness by its lively market and its beautiful vegetation a profusion of palms, baobabs, and acacia trees framed by the backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment. It’s just north of the Lake Manyara, which is fed by the town’s eponymous river and makes a good base for visiting the park. There are also good cultural walks in the surrounding areas.
We stop Mto wa Mbu for cold drink and some foodstuff for camping because from Karatu we didn’t expect other towns we Karatu, this small, dust town straddling the main road between Manyara and Ngorongoro may not look like much when you through when you come from Arusha but it is probably the most populous settlement anywhere along the 400km. Most tourists who are on a lodge-based safari will pass through Karatu in the blink of an eye. Quite a number of camping safari stay in the small town- nicknamed “safari junction” and use it as a base for a day trip to the nearby Ngorongoro Crater since the camping is a lot cheaper than in the conservation area. A worthwhile day trip out of Karatu is to Lake Eyasi and one of the Hardizabe settlements in the surrounding area
5th Day KARATU-MBULU-DONGODESH-KATESH
After breakfast we left Karatu town riding towards southwest of the town, the road is up and down passed through cultivation and villages such us Kansay, Barakta, Daudi then we reach Mbulu town, roughly 50km from Karatu.
From Mbulu we drive to Dongobesh passed through villages and cultivation land then we reach Dongobesh small town. This town is too small we found only two-three guest houses with no space for a campsite, since we were prepared for camping. We drive to Katesh town, we overnight at the Summit Hotel.
6th Day KATESH- LAKE BALANGIA- SINGIDA.
After breakfast 7hrs we left Katesh town riding towards west, Singida road, after 7km from Katesh town we turn off left instead of following Singida highway, then 23km from the highway we reach Balangida village, the village is sorted in the lakeshore. This pastoralist village is formed because of the availability of water for their cattle, goat, sheep, and donkey. Barbaig people are the indigenous people around this area, some claim that barbaig people were previous people to occupy the territory from around were today is Singida town up to Katesh town but in the east were to go further south with the Iraq people from north, in the western there were long battle with Nyiramba people and Nyaturu people from the west and central Tanzania so barbaig who are typical pastoralist with some resemble with plains maasai were forced to abandon were today is Singida town which inhabited with Nyaturu people and Nyiramba people today. The history said that the name Singida was prostituted from barbaig which the certain ears ring, it said there was white man passed in this area and asked certain Barbaig the direction the Barbaig give him a direction tell him to follow the road and he will find a earrings make “masingirida” then due to the different of western accent and Bantu accent the white man-mark the place as it pronounced to day Singida.
At the village, we turn right passed acacia forest alongside lakeshore. We cross the flood plain then meet the road which took us directly to Mgori village. From Mgori village we climb the escarpment which boarded Singida region and Manyara region physical, then we meet junction at the peak of escarpment then we descend directly to Singida town. Singida town it is central of Singida region administration, geographical the town is located in the low land to two small lakes separated by the road give the proof.
The town has still grown since it offers the center point the road from Dar es Salaam via Dodoma join the road from Arusha from here it leads to the great lake zone. We overnight at Stanly Motel, US$ 20 self-contain room with breakfast.
7th Day SINGIDA-ITIGI-RUGWA
9:30 we left Singida town, we took the Manyoni Dodoma road the road it is in the good condition tarmac road almost halfway before reach the junction of Issuna 69km from Singida. From Issuna junction we turn off right driving towards southwest to Itigi, passed through acacia bushes we reached Itigi small town. Itigi refers to the missionary time whereby the hospital and schools built, also the central railway which passed here makes the town to be the major station for Singida passengers, all this contributes to the grown of the town.
From Itigi towards south passed through small villages, the unique Itigi thickest this is unpenetrable acacia thickest it part of Rugwa Game Reserve. 16:17hrs we reach Mamagema post in Rugwa game reserve. We overnight at wilderness camp at mamagema post.
8th Day MAMAGEMA POST-RUGWA GATE-CHUNYA
After breakfast 7:00hrs we left Mamagema post riding towards Rugwa gate after 20km of riding from the post-it become hard to continue with riding because of abundant tsetse flies we drive about 10km and try again but it couldn’t be possible. We drive until near Makongolosi junction and start riding again we ride roughly 15km passed Makongolosi junction to lake Rukwa and turn of left riding towards south to Chunya town few km from Makongolosi junction it started to rain we find the shelter in the village called Matundasi, then after rain cut down we start to drive to Chunya but after few km from the village we find the bridge which connect to Chunya town the bridge was under maintenance so the vehicle supposed to pass through the water the time we reach here the river over flooded we wait for more five hours for water lever to drop, we cross the river in the mid-night then drive to Chunya where we overnight at Moonlight Guest House.
9th Day CHUNYA-MBEYA-IPANYA MALAWI BORDER
After breakfast 7:00hrs we start to ride to Mbeya passed through up and down of Rugwa rage with majestic landscape and beautiful views then long descend to Mbeya town which settles in the low land. From Mbeya, we drive to Ipanya where we finished our cross Tanzania cycling expedition.
The expedition was aimed to create the cycling route from Kilimanjaro Mountain to the southern Tanzania Zambia border. In this route, we consider less traffic road (minor road, rough road or path), accommodation in the route, security, attractions and interesting features.
I did this expedition 2010 with for southern Africa people who called themselves FREEDOM CHALLENGE. They helped to record the route in advance by using the GPS and pictures scouted the route a heard of time. For more bicycle tours and safaris https://www.elmundosafaris.com.
1st Day MACHAME GATE – TINGATINGA
We started 06dec 08 9:00hrs at Machame gate a few kilometers from the gate we turn off right at Kalali village we cross the bridge which connects Kalali village and Uswa village. Kikavu is the river that crosses between these two villages; it offers the beautiful river rein forest fig., eucalyptus trees, birds and monkey. We passed through the chain of villages Uswaa, Muuni and Lukani then we meet the Tamarac road. In the southern slope of Kilimanjaro, the lower slopes were probably once forested, but are now covered in cultivation. The volcanic soil makes them highly fertile and they support a dense human population. In the village, we meet the weekly market where people come from other villages for exchanging.
From where we meet the tarmac road we turn off right we followed this road leading towards the north, West Kilimanjaro in the plain of west Kilimanjaro we saw elephants, giraffe, gazelle and plain birds such as ostrich, kori bustard secretary bird, etc. West Kilimanjaro supports a near-pristine cover of lightly wooded acacia savannah where maasai herdsman co-exist with a remarkable variety of wildlife, including wildebeest, zebra, eland, impala, Grant’s gazelle, hartebeest, and yellow baboon, as well as one of the few Tanzania populations of the remarkable stretch-necked gerenuk
We reach TingaTinga village late evening we overnight at Ndarakwai camp. We cover 100km.
2nd Day TINGATINGA- LONGIDO-KITUMBEINE
After breakfast 7hrs we start to ride from TingaTinga village heading towards southwest passed through acacia bushland. The road is good for riding a bicycle, after acacia bushes, we come across Longido plain where we find large herds of zebra, wildebeest and gazelle we ride towards Longido Mountain (2629m) then North West around the mountain
towards Longido town which located west south of the mountain. We stop Longido town for cold drink and lunch then we drive to Kitumbeine village 52km from Longido town. Kitumbeine is the village which locates in the eastern slope of the mountain Kitumbeine Mountain (2865m). We overnight at Kitumbeine campsite.
3rd Day KITUMBEINE-ENGARUKA
After breakfast early in the morning, we start to ride from Kitumbeine village towards east north around the mountain up and down passed through dry savannah acacia bushes we saw large mammals such as gerenuk, elephant and different species of birds. After four hours of riding, we reach Gelai village this also is a village found in the slope of the mountain Gelai (2941m). After a short break we ride towards southwest descend from Gelai village then plain nearby Oldonyo Lengai Mountain (2878m) then we meet the road from Mto wa Mbu to Lake Natron via Engaruka. From the junction we drive to Lake Natron for flamingo viewing and come bark to Engaruka village in the plain we saw the large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle these was part of migratory herds. In the down, we reach Engaruka village.
Engaruka village on the eastern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area near the foot of Empakai is a small village known for its extensive ruins of the complex irrigation systems with terraced stone housing sites estimated to be at least 500 years old. Scientists are not sure of the origin of the ruins, some speculate they were built by ancestors of the Iraqw people, who live in the area today, while others suggest that the site was built by Sonjo, a Bantu speaking people.
4th Day ENGARUKA-KARATU
In the morning we start to ride left the Engaruka village beyond us, we passed through the plain alongside Rift Valley wall. The plain was green scatted Maasai boma, herds of zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle, plain bird’s ostrich, kori bastard, secretary bird, etc. Then we reach the plain village called Silalei which situated 20km from Mto wa Mbu town. Late afternoon we reached Mto wa Mbu town.
Mto wa Mbu (River if Mosquitoes) is a small village redeemed from scruffiness by its lively market and its beautiful vegetation a profusion of palms, baobabs, and acacia trees framed by the backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment. It’s just north of the Lake Manyara, which is fed by the town’s eponymous river and makes a good base for visiting the park. There are also good cultural walks in the surrounding areas.
We stop Mto wa Mbu for cold drink and some foodstuff for camping because from Karatu we didn’t expect other towns we Karatu, this small, dust town straddling the main road between Manyara and Ngorongoro may not look like much when you through when you come from Arusha but it is probably the most populous settlement anywhere along the 400km. Most tourists who are on a lodge-based safari will pass through Karatu in the blink of an eye. Quite a number of camping safari stay in the small town- nicknamed “safari junction” and use it as a base for a day trip to the nearby Ngorongoro Crater since the camping is a lot cheaper than in the conservation area. A worthwhile day trip out of Karatu is to Lake Eyasi and one of the Hardizabe settlements in the surrounding area
5th Day KARATU-MBULU-DONGODESH-KATESH
After breakfast we left Karatu town riding towards southwest of the town, the road is up and down passed through cultivation and villages such us Kansay, Barakta, Daudi then we reach Mbulu town, roughly 50km from Karatu.
From Mbulu we drive to Dongobesh passed through villages and cultivation land then we reach Dongobesh small town. This town is too small we found only two-three guest houses with no space for a campsite, since we were prepared for camping. We drive to Katesh town, we overnight at the Summit Hotel.
6th Day KATESH- LAKE BALANGIA- SINGIDA.
After breakfast 7hrs we left Katesh town riding towards west, Singida road, after 7km from Katesh town we turn off left instead of following Singida highway, then 23km from the highway we reach Balangida village, the village is sorted in the lakeshore. This pastoralist village is formed because of the availability of water for their cattle, goat, sheep, and donkey. Barbaig people are the indigenous people around this area, some claim that barbaig people were previous people to occupy the territory from around were today is Singida town up to Katesh town but in the east were to go further south with the Iraq people from north, in the western there were long battle with Nyiramba people and Nyaturu people from the west and central Tanzania so barbaig who are typical pastoralist with some resemble with plains maasai were forced to abandon were today is Singida town which inhabited with Nyaturu people and Nyiramba people today. The history said that the name Singida was prostituted from barbaig which the certain ears ring, it said there was white man passed in this area and asked certain Barbaig the direction the Barbaig give him a direction tell him to follow the road and he will find a earrings make “masingirida” then due to the different of western accent and Bantu accent the white man-mark the place as it pronounced to day Singida.
At the village, we turn right passed acacia forest alongside lakeshore. We cross the flood plain then meet the road which took us directly to Mgori village. From Mgori village we climb the escarpment which boarded Singida region and Manyara region physical, then we meet junction at the peak of escarpment then we descend directly to Singida town. Singida town it is central of Singida region administration, geographical the town is located in the low land to two small lakes separated by the road give the proof.
The town has still grown since it offers the center point the road from Dar es Salaam via Dodoma join the road from Arusha from here it leads to the great lake zone. We overnight at Stanly Motel, US$ 20 self-contain room with breakfast.
7th Day SINGIDA-ITIGI-RUGWA
9:30 we left Singida town, we took the Manyoni Dodoma road the road it is in the good condition tarmac road almost halfway before reach the junction of Issuna 69km from Singida. From Issuna junction we turn off right driving towards southwest to Itigi, passed through acacia bushes we reached Itigi small town. Itigi refers to the missionary time whereby the hospital and schools built, also the central railway which passed here makes the town to be the major station for Singida passengers, all this contributes to the grown of the town.
From Itigi towards south passed through small villages, the unique Itigi thickest this is unpenetrable acacia thickest it part of Rugwa Game Reserve. 16:17hrs we reach Mamagema post in Rugwa game reserve. We overnight at wilderness camp at mamagema post.
8th Day MAMAGEMA POST-RUGWA GATE-CHUNYA
After breakfast 7:00hrs we left Mamagema post riding towards Rugwa gate after 20km of riding from the post-it become hard to continue with riding because of abundant tsetse flies we drive about 10km and try again but it couldn’t be possible. We drive until near Makongolosi junction and start riding again we ride roughly 15km passed Makongolosi junction to lake Rukwa and turn of left riding towards south to Chunya town few km from Makongolosi junction it started to rain we find the shelter in the village called Matundasi, then after rain cut down we start to drive to Chunya but after few km from the village we find the bridge which connect to Chunya town the bridge was under maintenance so the vehicle supposed to pass through the water the time we reach here the river over flooded we wait for more five hours for water lever to drop, we cross the river in the mid-night then drive to Chunya where we overnight at Moonlight Guest House.
9th Day CHUNYA-MBEYA-IPANYA MALAWI BORDER
After breakfast 7:00hrs we start to ride to Mbeya passed through up and down of Rugwa rage with majestic landscape and beautiful views then long descend to Mbeya town which settles in the low land. From Mbeya, we drive to Ipanya where we finished our cross Tanzania cycling expedition.
WHAT ARE THE SAFARIS LIKE?
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.
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.
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.
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