Tag - africa

08/24/2016

5 Tips to Turn Your African Safari into an Unforgettable Experience

Africa is a vast and ecologically diverse continent. Therefore, it can be a bit daunting to plan a safari holiday for the first...

07/22/2014

Marc. J

Bewitching African Jungle – Find your own Tarzan adventure

by E Francis, When many people think of Africa, they think of the savannah, the Sahara, areas of sand and bushland filled with...

06/12/2013

G P

Spring’s Most Inspiring Photograph Locations

by Deborah Clark, Ask any artist: the search for inspiration is constant. For photographers, a new breed of inspirational beauty...

Namibia dreams

03/14/2013

coenvanwyk

Photos, Travel Info|Tips

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When overland tourists meet there is always time to share news and information

The Namib desert is the oldest desert on earth. Yet humans have been living here for longer than in almost any other area in the world, in these valleys, mountains and plains that, today, present a harsh background to a young nation’s struggle to live under difficult conditions.

There are many ways to visit Namibia, and as many facets to see. A popular way is to rent an offroad-capable vehicle and drive, but visitors are advised to be aware that the desert is not your friend! Venturing into remote places on your own, without experience, can be dangerous! Fortunately there are many, experienced tour operators to help, many friendly local people who would advise, and much in the way of tourism infrastructure.

From the Kgalagadi transfrontier park, a vast semi-desert area straddling the southern borders between South Africa, Namibia andBotswana, to the famous Etosha reserve in the north, a variety of nature can be viewed and visited. The southern plains make way to the harsh, yet fertile Khomas highland, where a farmer might count on 18 hectares of land to support one cow or horse.

These shy predarors dig burrows to give birth

From the Capital of Windhoek, still strongly infused with the German colonial heritage, one can cross to the coast, where Swakopmund reminds visitors of a Germany of some years ago. From here you can go south, into the Namib itself, but be aware: permits are required, not only for your own protection against the desert, but also to protect the diamond mining concessions from pilferers!

One can see, at the roadside. the Welwitchia Mirabilis plant, a holdover from the days of the dinosaur. But be careful! These plants are fragile! And, going north, towards Etosha, you can also visit the Brandberg mountains, where the rock
paintings record the history of the first human nations.

And take the time to get to know the people: The Herero who suffered a genocide at the hands of the German colonisers, the bushmen or San people, now only found in remote areas, but for millennia the lords of this land, the Ovambo in the north, and the Himba people, famous for their ochre-coloured clothing. Just a few of the many nations that make up this fascinating country. All proud people trying to make a success of their land despite the vast distances and small population.

A fight for control of the valuable territory near water, where females have to pass by.

Some prefer to use animal drawn transport. It is ecological!

Ample facilities exist for tourists to enjoy the peace and calm.

Some useful addresses:

Namibia Tourism: http://www.namibiatourism.com.na/

Namibia National Parks: http://www.namibiatourism.com.na/national-parks/

Isabis offroad tracks and accommodation: http://www.isabis4x4.com

Chameleon Backpackers, Windhoek: http://www.chameleonbackpackers.com/

Uganda the pearl of Africa

03/04/2013

art of africa safari

Travel Blogs

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Gorilla toddler, Image wikipedia

Uganda is a land locked country in East Africa. It is bordered on the east by Kenya, north by South Sudan,
west by Democratic Republic of the Congo, southwest by Rwanda and on the south by Tanzania. It includes a substantial portion of Lake Victoria which is also bordered by Kenya and Tanzania.

Climate

Although generally equatorial, the climate is not uniform as the altitude modifies the climate. Southern Uganda is wetter with rain generally spread throughout the year. At Entebbe on the northern shore of Lake Victoria most rain falls from march to June and November/December period; further to the north a dry season gradually emerges; at Gulu about 120km from Sudanese border, November to February is much drier than the rest of the year.

The northeastern Karamoja region has the driest climate, Rwenzori in the south west on the border with Congo receives heavy rain almost all the year.The south of the country is heavily influenced by one of the world’s biggest lakes, Lake Victoria ,which contains many islands. It prevents temperatures from varying significantly and increases cloudiness and rainfall. Most important cities are located in the south near Lake Victoria,including the capital city Kampala and the nearby city Entebbe. Uganda contains many large lakes apart from Lake Victoria and that is Lake Kyoga a salt mining lake, Lake Albert, Lake Edward and the smaller Lake George.

Uganda speaks English as their official language and Kiswahili as a second language and then other languages. ln Uganda two major systems of transportation. The Road and Air transportation. Though Water transport is also used but to nearby places with in the country.

We have a number of accommodation facilities that is Hotel, apartments, lodges, inns,camping tents, bandas and more but the commonly used by the tourism industry is Hotels, Bandas,camping tents and Lodges.

Attractions

There are number of attractions and activities that tourists can engage in. There are 10 national parks, game reserves, forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, museums, cultural sites and many more.

When you visit Uganda as a tourist you have a chance of participating in a number of activities such as wildlife safaris, bird watching, gorilla tracking, butterfly viewing, chimpanzee tracking & habituation, cultural visits, sightseeing, mountain hiking, boat launching, sport fishing, volcano climbing and more and more of it.

Travel tips

When visiting Uganda you must have a valid passport and visa.

Must have a yellow fever and malaria vaccination.

Polio vaccination for children below five years.

lf you want to drive you must have a valid international driving permit

Mind the food and drinks you take while at the destination.

lf you are sick make sure you carry your medication in order to enjoy your trip without any inconvenience.

Be aware of the climatic conditions so that you can carry the right clothes.

Always inform the person handling your trip whether you have a disability, have animals like Dogs or cats so that they arrange for the necessary requirements. Also lf you want a special meal arrangement please always inform the person in charge so that you can always have the best on your trip because it is always your time to enjoy without any disappointments, let the disappointment only happen when there is uncontrolled circumstances.

Adventure Awaits in the Seychelles

02/15/2013

G P

Africa, Holidays, Seychelles

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Adventures in Seychelles

by Amy Nielson,

Off the coast of Africa, in the heart of the Indian Ocean, lies an archipelago of 115 islands made up of towering cliffs, white sand beaches, thick rain forests, and amazing coral reefs. These are the Seychelles, an incredible paradise that will impress even the most well-traveled visitor. The Seychelles stands out from many other tropical destinations because it’s equally appealing to tourists who are looking for adventure.

If you prefer to do more with your island holiday than just lie on a beach, this could be the trip for you. The Seychelles is great for sailing, surfing, rock-climbing, scuba diving, and zip lining. You can ride horses on the beach or hike to a hidden waterfall, through a forest inhabited by 300,000 birds. If this sounds like the vacation for you, here’s what you need to know about traveling to this exotic location.

1. How to Plan for a Trip to the Seychelles

The Seychelle Islands have an international airport in Victoria, the capital city, on the island of Mahe. They offer direct flights to and from London, Paris, and Dubai, and they welcome many connecting flights from different points on the African continent every day. There’s no visa requirement for foreign visitors. Those with valid passports are simply issued a visitor’s permit, good for one month with free extensions up to three months. Before your visit, you might want to research your options for accommodations. They can be much more varied in the Seychelles than other island destinations. Only 16 of the islands have hotels, but it’s become more common to find a healthy mix of luxury resorts and villas with more affordable small hotels and guesthouses.

2. Weather in the Seychelles

The best time to visit the Seychelles Islands may completely depend on what you like to do. The Seychelles are warm and tropical all year round, but they’re particularly rainy in December and January. The trade winds shift twice a year, and April and October are the calm months between the shift, when weather conditions are particularly beautiful and there’s no wind. This makes the water incredibly warm and clear – amazing conditions for scuba divers. Between April and October, conditions are also great for bird-watching, hiking, and surfing, while other activities like sailing and snorkeling are great all year round. As you might expect, the off-season can be more affordable, and you’ll still get the full Seychelles experience.

3. Things to Do

Besides the various exciting water and land activities that the Seychelles Islands are perfect for, most visitors spend at least some of their vacation island hopping. The different islands in the Seychelles each have their own character and landscape, and they can be reached by ferry or even by helicopter. From the aptly-named Bird Island, with its 700,000 seabirds, to the coral island of Denis, with its chalets and coconut palms, everywhere you go in Seychelles will show you something new. The Seychelles is also packed with yearly events. Carnivals, parades, and multicultural festivals, as well as international sailing and fishing competitions, draw tourists to the islands every month. It’s worth checking out what’s going on locally while you’re in the country.

4. Seychelles on a Budget

Of course, if you plan to visit the Seychelles, you are planning on a luxury vacation. But there are still plenty of ways to save money. Choosing a smaller hotel or guesthouse will save you on costs, as well as traveling during the rainy season, where the beaches can be pleasantly less crowded. Restaurants in the Seychelles are relatively reasonable if they’re not inside a large hotel or resort. And if you’re up for it, traveling by bicycle can be a good way to save on transportation. Most importantly, the beauty of nature in the Seychelles is absolutely free. Lying on the beach, feeding giant tortoises, and swimming in lagoons are activities free of charge. Most tourists spend the most money by splurging at their resorts or taking those amazing day trips.

The Seychelles is a country of amazing character and diversity, situated on coral and granite islands of breathtaking beauty. For such a small location, it manages to have something for everyone, including travelers that don’t want to empty their bank account on a luxury holiday. Most of all, it’s a place of adventure, where you can experience things you’ve never done before in an island paradise that’s truly one of a kind.

Amy Nielson is an avid blogger. You can follow her on Twitter @NielsonAmy.

Madagascar for Honeymoons

01/31/2013

Marc. J

Travel Info|Tips

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Madagascar_island

You might not think of Madagascar as a honeymoon destination. A certain children’s cartoon movie might be to blame if you don’t associate this Indian Ocean island with romance.

In fact, Madagascar is a paradise for couples seeking a unique place to celebrate their special day. However, newlyweds should be warned. This is a destination for people that love nature and the outdoors. It’s not for people who prefer to stay in a luxury air-conditioned room.

Madagascar offers plenty of opportunities for couples that want to laze on a beach, but it also provides the chance to embark on a number of safari adventures.

One reason couples might come here on their honeymoons is a love of exotic wildlife, including lemurs and chameleons, both of which are native to the island. Other species to tick off include iguanas, fish eagles and birds of paradise.

Couples could visit the Andasibe Perinet National Park, one of the best-known natural habitats on the island. There they can join an official botanical tour or venture out on their own, or with a private guide.

Another option is to travel on to Lake Ampitabe to explore a nearby private nature reserve. Here you could stay at the Bushhouse Lodge. Newlyweds might also be amazed by what they see and hear in Toamasina and Ile Sainte Marie.

Virgin rainforest and pristine seas also provide a perfect backdrop for activities. Honeymooners can spend time snorkeling, windsurfing, fishing, or waterskiing. Most resorts offer boat excursions and even shopping trips.

Any one of the romantic Anjajavy villas may be suitable for honeymoon celebrations. Some of them have more than one floor with a large terrace that overlooks the sea. From here, the couples may also decide to move onto the Vakona Lodge.

Honeymooners have plenty of chances to get away in Madagascar. One favorite spot is the city of Tana. The Hotel Pallisandre is one suggested accommodation. It offers high-quality cuisine and breathtaking room views.

Useful info:

http://www.worldprimatesafaris.com/info/honeymoon-safaris/madagascar-honeymoons

Visiting Harare This Spring?? Learn How to Enhance the Joys of Your Visit

12/10/2012

Marc. J

Travel Info|Tips

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Victoria-Falls-Zimbabwe

by Barbara F Miller,

Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe and one of the most important places in the entire African region. Being home to over 2.8 million people, it is one of the most populous metropolises of the continent. Though there have been few concerns with regards to political and economic management in the last decade but situation has improved in the recent years. Owing the emerging positive developments, Zimbabwe has become a paradise for tourist once again. Among all Zimbabwean cities, Harare has the leading status in tourism circles as the city has everything to make it a perfect choice to spend holidays.

The spring and summer season (April-October) is very hot for Harare as number of visitors to Zimbabwe increase. Probably one of the leading factors in this surge is increased water-flow in Victoria Falls that is the single most attractive tourist destination. If you are also planning a visit to Zimbabwe in the same time, it’s more than a great idea. However, there are very few people who actually plan their visit thoroughly. We are sharing few important suggestions that could help you save a lot and enjoy more. We’ll guide you on how to get cheap air fares to Harare, which places to visit and small tips to reduce the financial burden of your trip.

Using Technology to Your advantage:

If you are reading this, it means you have interface with modern technology and gadgets. Use the same technology to your advantage. Search WikiTravel, Wikipedia, Google, Yahoo and other information sources to get background information about the city and its important places. Internet can be a great source of reducing your cost as there are many dedicated African specialist travel agencies that provide low-cost travelling services. Sky, cheapflights-harare.co.uk, Trip Advisor etc. are few to mention. You can go there and search the website for low cost Harare tickets and other services, if they offer.

Travel apps of Smart phones:

Smart phones on travel

If I say, this century belongs to Smartphones; you might not disagree with me. However, very few people actually capitalize the full potential of their smart devices. In this regard, you are advised to learn the art of using smartphone while on travel. Your smartphone apps like Google maps, Places etc. can be very useful while you are on trip. They can save your time and money in numerous ways. Certain apps are very useful for searching nearby ATM, bank, restaurant, bus stop and airport.

Seal the Deals:

We all are habitual of deals when it comes to purchasing pizzas, shopping carts, and other items of daily use. While going on a trip, apply the same principle and grab some useful deal. The deals can be sealed at local attractions, hotels, restaurants, transportation service and with airlines. Discount coupons are another way of getting low-priced products and services. In this regard, websites of local vendors and travel agencies can help a lot.

Visit Naturally Sound & Soul-Awakening Places:

Though the whole city is worth visiting and watching but few places are more attractive than the rest. In order to increase the joys of your trip, visit places like: Warren Park, Borrowdale, Mount Pleasant, Queen Victoria Museum, Marlborough, Tynwald and Avondale. Kopje is a hilly point that gives you aerial view of the entire city. In addition to these, Victoria Falls; the world’s widest waterfall is a real mind blowing place to visit. When you go around into these naturally rich sites and observe astonishing landscapes, your inner-world gets further purified and calm. Research has indicated that visiting certain places can reduce your stress level and enhance self-image. They also have a positive impact on your memorizing ability and eyesight as well.

Useful info:

http://www.cheapflights-harare.co.uk

Maximizing a Trip to Trendy Johannesburg

10/11/2012

Geraldine Mills

Travel Info|Tips

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Courtesy of flickr.com/thomas_sly

The large South African city of Johannesburg is a bustling metropolis and an African economic juggernaut. Known in the local language as Joburg, the city embraces an eclectic mix of African, European, and Asian cultures.

Its rich history, together with its progressive outlook, makes it a hip destination for tourists from around the world. There are numerous attractions Johannesburg is known for, but these hip attractions are the city’s staple and will definitely maximize your trip.

Market on Main

Nestled at 245 Main Street, it is the number one ranked food and design market. A must see location if you are visiting or either you’re from Johannesburg, it offers a wide range of interesting items that you can find in other parts of the world. Something you can bargain for while letting you have a taste of other cultures. In Market on Main, you can also find sumptuous, inexpensive and healthy ethnic food. The outside area is also quite refreshing with all the awesome bars and cozy coffee shops. Market on Main is definitely a place where you can best spend your Sunday mornings.

Gold Reef City

Another place where you can experience extreme fun is South Africa’s premiere theme park, the Gold Reef City. This place offers different kinds of attractions that cater to all ages. Adults enjoy their trip to the mine tour which gives them the experience of how gold-mining feels like. This is one of the highlights that this theme park offers along with the thrill rides and the famous 4D cinema that are both enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Visitors would surely love to indulge with various selections of restaurants, while others can spend their day watching the featured show at the Theatre. Gold Reef City is indeed full of awesome memorabilia of South Africa.

Apartheid Museum

Apartheid Museum is situated in Northern Parkway. Constructed with a budget of approximately 80 million South Africa Rands and is recognized as the pre-eminent museum when it opened in 2001. The museum exhibits South Africa’s 20^th century rise and fall during the Apartheid Era. The architectural design is impressive along with their excellent exhibit that explains all about the Apartheid movement. Extraordinary stories unfold right before your very eyes. Paying a visit to this place is a good way to know and experience South African history.

Lion Park

If you want to have a perfect outdoor activity for the weekend, consider visiting The Lion Park. It is an amazing park that is considered home to some herbivores and carnivores. You will truly enjoy your interaction with the animals as you get the amazing chance to get up close- and-personal with them. The park is divided into two areas. Herbivores like giraffe, zebra and other grass-eating animals were separated from the prides of lions, cheetahs, along with some wild dogs and hyenas which are located at the carnivore’s area. This is a great chance for visitors to pet these wild animals and at the same time feed them. The whole family can surely enjoy this trip.

Origins Centre

Anyone, whose interest is the story of humankind and its origins in Africa, should consider having a day of visit in the Origins Center. To provide visitors with Africa’s rich and complicated heritage is their main goal in building the museum. The range of audience that the museum caters are from school kids as well as the ones whose interest is all about Africa’s celebration of history. You can enjoy the wonderful exhibition because of its well done presentation that is both fun and educational.

Author Bio:

Geraldine Mills is a Luxury safari enthusiast and writes travel tips and guidelines for tourists looking for a South African safari experience. She is also a Community Outreach Coordinator for www.andbeyondafrica.com. Follow her on Twitter @geraldinewalks.

An African Safari, Conclusion

06/03/2012

coenvanwyk

Travel Blogs

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Africa is easy to travel in. People are friendly, roads sometimes difficult but passable if you stay on the main road. The greatest obstacle was the bureaucracy. Visas, customs hassles, some regulations seemingly designed to frustrate you. Officials laboriously writing down all your details, including parents’ names, dates and places of birth, in not one, not two but in three dossiers what obviously will never be read by anyone.

Fresh fish in Cameroon

In some countries we easily received tourist visas valid for a month, but temporary import visas for our vehicles valid for only two or three days.

Food was easily available; after all, the people who live there also eat! Sometimes their tastes differ, but hey, that is what adventure is all about! The most memorable meal was at a ‘restaurant’ of planks, on the beach in Cameroon, with fish caught an hour before, and roasted on the coals just next to us.

And the people. All along the way, we met new friends who wanted to share our experiences, welcome us into their homes, and hear our stories!

An African overland Safari part 1: Morocco

05/29/2012

coenvanwyk

Travel Blogs

2300 Views 1 Comment

“Safari: A journey or trip: a sightseeing safari”

Fruit stalls in Marrakesh market.

We were six: more or less retired, too bored to sit and watch the paint dry. So we decided to see Africa.

From Morocco along the west coast, with a detour into the Sahara, a visit to Timbuktu, and thendown towards the south, we spent almost five months on the road, covered almost 16000 miles,and spent around $ 20 000 per couple. A voyage to remember, memories to cherish.

We shipped our vehicles to Morocco, and were badly advised, so had to spend two weeks knocking around until we could start touring. Fortunately we had a long-suffering friend in Fez who was willing to put us up, and show us this lovely city.

Oasis in the Atlas mountains

Once the vehicles were delivered in Casablanca, we spent two weeks touring Morocco, crossing the Atlas mountains three times, and getting tempted by Ali Baba caves of shopping. The thought of 20 border crossings with notorious customs officials, and a severe lack of packing space made us wonder if we should not rather have ended our voyage here.

There are magnificent gorges that run into the Atlas mountains from the south. We followed the nomad invasion route up to the Telouet valley, and down into Marrakesh, where we lounged in the luxury of the imperial city for a while.

And then it was time to head south.

(www.thefreedictionary.com)

Safety and Security on your South Africa Holiday

09/02/2011

Rickshaw Travel

Africa, Holidays, S. Africa, Travel Info|Tips

1983 Views 2 Comments

overview-ostriches

Visiting a foreign country always has an element of uncertainty and wariness involved, particularly when visiting developing countries where most of the resident population live below the poverty line. It is sad though to let these worries put you off exploring a new country or once there, it could really spoil your enjoyment of your South Africa trip. The main advice is to be vigilant, listen to local advice and not take any unnecessary risks. Having years of experience in travel to South Africa we’ve come up with some pointers to consider while you are there. This advice is mainly aimed at the larger cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Pretoria and Port Elizabeth where petty crime is more common.

What to wear and how to get around

When considering that most of the population in South Africa live well below the poverty line it’s important that one considers how to dress appropriately. It’s recommended that when walking around during the day, particularly in the larger cities, that you try not to wear flashy clothing and expensive jewellery. At night we it’s safer to drive from your accommodation to restaurants and bars for dinner and evening entertainment. If you don’t feel up to navigating the streets at night, all of the main towns and cities will have a reputable taxi firm that can be suggested to you by your guest house on yourSouth Africa trip.

Safety and Security in the car

Botswana Elephants

There are a couple of basic things to remember when driving around on you South Africa holiday. The general rule is that if you’re driving in or through big cities you should lock all the car doors. You should always make sure that anything that is valuable is kept out of sight. When stopping at traffic lights (locally known as Robots) it’s advised to have all windows up.
At most of the big traffic light intersections in cities like Cape Town you’ll generally find people either begging or selling various assortments of wares, from coat hangers to various different types of arts and crafts. Generally it is advised not to buy anything here and if you do, make sure that your valuables, such as wallets and mobile phones, are out of sight.

When leaving your car parked anywhere it’s important to make sure that you take all valuables along with you. Anything you don’t want to take along, for example a pair of shoes or a jacket, you should only leave them behind in a covered boot.

Keeping important Documents safe and secure

It’s advisable to make copies of all important documents such as passports and drivers licenses. Photocopies ought to be left with relatives at home and copies should be taken with you and perhaps left in different pieces of luggage at your guest house. Most hotels and guesthouses in larger towns will also have either a safe in the bedrooms or at the reception desk.

Keeping your belongings safe and secure while exploring

While you are sightseeing in South Africa during the day it is important to think about what you will carry your belongings around in. Handbags are not advised as are generally easy to snatch off the shoulder, or pickpocket. Although useful, rucksack pockets are easily accessible and make for easy targets. Decent sized side-satchels are generally the better bag to have with you as they’re not so easy to get into without you noticing. It’s a good idea to make sure that you can see your bag or have across your shoulders while sat in public areas. It is always advisable to leave your valuables in a secure place at your guesthouse (most will provide a safe), and only take as much cash out with you as you will need on the day.

Lastly, do not let fears about safety stop you from planning a trip to South Africa, follow these simple tips and have a great time!

Oil lanterns in Kruger. Garden Route adventure trails. Sleep in beehive huts and bush chalets. We’ll help you build your very own South Africa adventure with South Africa Travel Plan. ‘Like this? Read more travel tips and tales at www.rickshawtravel.co.uk/blog/’

Kariba- One of the World’s Largest Man-made Lake- Zimbabwe

05/22/2011

Marc. J

Africa, Holidays, Zimbabwe

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Kariba, Cr-africanfusiontravel.com

by Melody Mundawarara,

A Place with Potential for Sustainable Ecotourism in Africa

Kariba is among the four largest man-made lakes in the world and the second largest in Africa. It lies along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.The dam wall was built across the Kariba Gorge to harness the river’s flow to provide hydroelectric power for the growing industries of Zimbabwe and Zambia.

A Popular Travel Destination

Although both local people and wild animals were initially displaced when the dam was filled between 1958 and 1963, safe relocations were made and the new ecosystem provides life in many forms. Villagers and their livestock have constant access to water. Covering an area of nearly 6,000 km2, the lake has also become a year-round source of water for an abundance of animal and bird life, and a popular travel destination for both local and foreign tourists. The main town that lies at one end of the massive lake is Kariba Heights. It is carefully situated 600 metres above the lake up a steep hill.

Origin of the Name Kariba

Several stories have been put forward to explain the origin of the name Kariba. Some elders in the area note that close to the dam wall lies a rock that resembles a traditional stone trap, riva, hence Kariva, literally meaning “little trap”; later mispronounced by Europeans to Kariba. Another version is that the rock was named “Kariva” due to the fact that when the river flooded the rock, it trapped water thereby making it difficult for the locals who often crossed the river to return to either side of the Zambezi River. Whatever the origin of the name, it is generally agreed that the name Kariba is a mispronunciation of the rock which lies beneath the water surface, close to the dam wall.

Attractions on Lake Kariba

The Zimbabwe side of the lake has about 1000 kilometres of shoreline, with sun-baked African hills, placid backwaters and numerous islands. The portion of Lake Kariba which falls within Zimbabwe has been designated a recreational park within the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Estate.

The resort has become one of Zimbabwe’s major tourist attractions, largely because of the lake and proximity to several national parks, including the Mana Pools National Park which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Game Viewing at Kariba

Lake Kariba is a tremendous wildlife experience. Gamefish, particularly tigerfish, which was among the indigenous species of the Zambezi river system, now thrive on kapenta, a small species of sardine-like fish that was introduced into the lake as a commercial fishery venture. Fish eagle, cormorant and other water birds frequently visit the shorelines. Elephant, crocodile and hippo are also commonly seen.

Game viewing on foot or by safari vehicle is offered around the lake by several operators, and is sometimes included in the price of a fully serviced houseboat. Often, so too is fishing, all meals and access to small launching craft.

The lake has numerous dead trees which still protrude above the water from the spot where they once flourished. This has given rise to the petrified forest which some find a little spooky and boaters are wary of. However, many find this forest of stone trees interesting. The stumps provide convenient perch for the African fish eagle whose distinctive, haunting cry is often heard in the area.

Seasons in Kariba

The area generally has very hot summers, averaging 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), and an average rainfall of 660 millimetres. The winters are usually warm with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). Wintertime, from April to August, is the best time to go to Kariba.

Where to Stay at Kariba

The best places to stay are generally the lodges around the mouth of the Ume River on the Eastern lake shore. Alternatively, you can stay on a houseboat. Among other facilities, many of the houseboats have a swimming cage that allows passengers to take a refreshing dip in the cooling waters of Lake Kariba, safe from crocodiles. The boats usually sleep from 8 people to upwards of 14 and drift around the lake at your pleasure. A visit to Kariba is highly recommended. It is a most relaxing form of holiday.