Situated in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, the Marakele National Park is a haven for natural beauty. Characterised by rolling hills, tall cedar trees and deep-set valleys, this national park paints a picture of wilderness at its finest. The Marakele National Park is also home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Cape Vultures, an endangered bird species found mainly in Africa. Take a trip to the Sentech Towers to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

Elephant in the Marakele National Park.                                    Photo: miquitos

2. De Hoop Nature Reserve

Situated in the Overberg region, De Hoop Nature Reserve is the perfect pit stop on the way to the buzzing city of Cape Town. The reserve is home to more than 260 migratory bird species and around 86 mammal species, including the elusive Bontebok antelope and the Cape Mountain zebra. If you fancy doing a spot of whale watching, why not take the Whale Trail across the reserve? Stretching over 55km from Potberg to Koppie Alleen, the trail takes you through the most beautiful parts of De Hoop. See if you can spot the whales which tend to congregate on the coastline from June to December.

3. Wilderness National Park

Discover the best of Africa’s beaches, lakes, estuaries and rivers in the beautiful expanse of the Wilderness National Park. Nestled in the beating heart of the Garden Route, this national park is the best place to go if you want to immerse yourself in nature. See if you can catch a glimpse of the brightly coloured Knysna Loerie birds which have made their home in the Wilderness forest. Aside from being an area of stunning natural beauty, the Wilderness is one of the best places of all the South African National Parks to indulge in some sporting endeavours. With adventure activities ranging from abseiling to kloofing, you couldn’t find a more breath-taking location to try something a little different.

4. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

The word ‘iSimangaliso’ means ‘miracle and wonder,’ and this park has both of these qualities in abundance. The park was named South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in 1999, and it’s not hard to see why. Nestled in its 332,000 hectares are eight interlinking ecosystems, a set of 25,000 year old coastal dunes and the largest estuarine system in the whole of Africa. Take a guided trail to get up close and personal with largest congregation of hippos and crocodiles in South Africa, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the foothills of the Lubombo Mountains in uMkhuze.

5. Mapungubwe National Park

Close to the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, the Mapungubwe National Park is the perfect place to come and discover the more historical aspects of Africa’s beautiful landscapes. Enjoy a blast from the past with a trip to the ancient site of Mapungabwe Hill, which was home to a prosperous African civilisation between 1200 and 1270 AD. If you’re not interested in history, have a wander through the beautiful baobab trees in the riverine forest.

About the writer:

Becky is a passionate traveller who blogs about her travel adventures and the hidden gems she finds along the way. She currently writes for Enjoybedandbreakfast.com, a website which showcases unique, unusual and truly special bed and breakfasts and guest houses from across the world.
 

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/5-off-the-beaten-track-south-african-national-parks/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1562 2012-05-10T05:28:18Z 2012-05-10T08:35:19Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com Watch this Sossusvlei Desert Lodge YouTube video and take a glimpse of what you can expect from such luxurious accommodation built to entertain the viewing of Sossusvlei desert.

There are few things as simply gorgeous as a sunrise and if it's one thing Sossusvlei, Namibia, does best it's a dramatic sunrise. This Sossusvlei Desert Lodge YouTube video introduces you to the tip of the beauty you can enjoy in Namibia. Don't miss the opportunity to experience it; book your spot at the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/sossusvlei-desert-lodge-youtube-video/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1556 2012-05-04T11:12:38Z 2012-05-15T10:21:39Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com On the scene of shark attacks on humans, in False Bay, Cape Town, South Africa you'll find the helping hands of the Emergency Medical Treatment (EMT) paramedics who appear as if out of nowhere. In an interview with Cape Town based EMT paramedic, Ian Klopper, Dalene Ingham-Brown uncovers valuable insight, advice and personal opinion about chumming for shark from a man who has dedicated his life to helping others.

Ian Kloppers has been doing paramedical work since 1989 and has been actively involved in inshore and offshore rescue with the NSRI, since 1982, working with boats and helicopter services.

Dalene: How many shark attack scenes have you worked on?

Ian: I have physically been at six shark attack scenes and assisted in coordinating the rescue of two others.

Dalene: What part of the body is usually affected when a shark attacks a human?

Ian: The lower extremities of the body: legs and torso.

Dalene: Do you have any tips, for those using the sea, to prevent falling victim of a shark attack?

Ian: I'd advise people obey the bathing instructions from local authorities. Also, it's important to keep an eye on the sign boards, flags, Shark Spotters and shark sirens to stay up to date with shark activity. People should always swim in demarcated areas and avoid going into the water at dawn or dusk in murky water. Also, stay in a group if possible.

Dalene: What advice would you give to someone who saw a shark rapidly approaching.

Ian: Keep your eye on the shark and stay as calm as possible. If the shark comes closer, try and push the shark away and get out of the water as soon as possible. Also, try and signal for help.

Dalene: Have you ever been shark cage diving?

Ian: Yes, I love it!

Dalene: Do you think chumming causes shark attacks on humans? If so, why?

Ian: I don’t think chumming causes shark attacks on humans. There's so much natural chum from Seal Island and fishing boats, that have been around for years, that I would be very surprised if a little bit of chumming from shark operators made any difference to their behavior patterns. This is just a personal opinion.

Dalene: In your personal opinion do you think chumming to attract sharks for the purpose of shark cage diving is good?

Ian: I honestly don’t think that chumming for the purpose of shark cage diving makes any difference to the sharks. The chum probably does heighten their senses but I am not sure that it has a lasting behavioral affect on the animal.

Dalene: Why do you think people are against chumming?

Ian: Ignorance and lack of understanding; so many 'experts' out there don’t really know anything about sharks. The more I learn about them, the less I feel I am able to comment. We know so little about them.

In a recent interview about chumming for shark, with great white shark guru Rob Lawrence, the same personal opinion can be noted regarding why people are against chumming: ignorance. Could it be that all this controversial subject needs is a shark cage diving trip for those who haven't gone before?

As long as we share the seas with a host of weird and wonderful creatures there will be risk of shark attacks on humans. However, if we follow the advice of the professionals and treat the sea and its inhabitants with the respect they deserve, we're one step closer to being able to live in harmony with one another. After all, even Ian Klopper fearlessly swims in Cape Town's False Bay waters.

POST UPDATE: 15 MAY 2012

Below, Zapiro (one of South Africa's most popular and leading cartoonists), creates a sketch focusing on the controversial issue of chumming for shark for the pleasure of commercial tourism.

Cartoon description and background:

With the raging debate about Shark chumming on radio and social networks and the recent death of a well-known body surfer in False Bay (Cape Town), Zapio's cartoon equates the logic of Shark chumming to the Kruger Park.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/shark-attacks-on-humans-interview/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1554 2012-05-02T05:57:16Z 2012-05-15T10:36:17Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com Chumming for shark is a highly controversial subject, with shark attack victims on the rise. The media is flooded with negative connotations associated with chumming for shark, so Dalene Ingham-Brown interviewed Rob Lawrence, owner of Cape Town based African Shark Eco-Charters, to gain insight into a pro-chumming mindset.

Pro-chumming for shark interview with Rob Lawrence:

Dalene: Why do you think people are against chumming?

Rob: People don’t know what goes on, on a shark cage diving trip where chumming for shark is involved. The media is swamped with negative opinion towards the subject. There is a great misconception about chumming. People seem to think that we put pigs blood and mammal blood in the water to attract sharks; that isn’t the case. We use snoek, skip jack and whatever other fish bait is available at the time. I’ve found that most people against chumming, haven’t even been on a shark cage diving trip before. Those who haven’t been on a trip with us before don’t know exactly what happens, how much we use, and what we use; of course they will be against chumming.

Dalene: Do you think putting up shark nets to prevent shark attacks on humans is a good idea?

Rob: I understand that the exclusion nets to be put up in False Bay will be an experimental project, however if it is run properly It could be beneficial for both sharks and humans. It is working well in KwaZulu Natal, hopefully it will work for us too.

Dalene: Does chumming for shark have an effect on shark attacks on humans?

Rob: No.

Dalene: Do you think the daily restriction of 25 kg of bait per day is reasonable for shark chumming?

Rob: Yes, it is a reasonable amount. Often I don’t even use that much when I go out for the day. It’s not like we go out with 25 kg of bait and come back with empty buckets.

Dalene: Do you think the mass chumming for Ocearch’s film-making in False Bay had an effect on the Kogel Bay shark attack?

Rob: No I don’t. If I’m not mistaken, the attack happened 3 days after the chumming for shark took place. I’m not involved in the Ocearch project so I cannot give information on the exact particulars of the project.

Dalene: Do you think that shark cage diving chumming leads to sharks associating food with humans?

Rob: You can’t condition sharks to think like that. If it were that easy to condition sharks, I wouldn’t have to close my business for a good few months of the year. Sharks have cycles, they are either there or they aren’t. They may associate boats with food, but to say that sharks associate humans with food is quite a far stretch of the imagination.

Dalene: Do you have any suggestions for preventing shark attacks in False Bay?

Rob: Well, I think the Shark Spotters have been great in reporting on shark movement. Swimmers and locals should follow the Shark Spotter program, take advice from local law enforcement officers when warned about shark activity, and they should just use their common sense.

Dalene: Why would you say shark attacks in False Bay are on the increase?

Rob: It seems to be a global trend and not just happening in False Bay. Whether it is because of environmental issues, or whether it is just because there are more people in the water, we can’t be sure.

Comment below: What is your opinion on chumming for shark and shark attacks on humans?

Chumming for shark with Rob Lawrence:

About Rob Lawrence:

Rob Lawrence is the founder of African Shark Eco-Charters. Working in the industry since 1992, Rob has acquired great experience and knowledge surrounding the behaviour of the great white shark. His passion for these misunderstood animals is what drives him, dedicated to informing, educating, and empowering individuals by sharing his knowledge.

Creating worldwide awareness, over the years, Rob has worked closely with film production companies like Animal Planet, BBC Wildlife, National Geographic and Discovery Channel.

POST UPDATE: 15 MAY 2012

Below, Zapiro (one of South Africa's most popular and leading cartoonists), creates a sketch focusing on the controversial issue of chumming for shark for the pleasure of commercial tourism.

Cartoon description and background:

With the raging debate about Shark chumming on radio and social networks and the recent death of a well-known body surfer in False Bay (Cape Town), Zapio's cartoon equates the logic of Shark chumming to the Kruger Park.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/chumming-for-shark-interview-with-rob-lawrence/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1553 2012-04-30T12:13:10Z 2012-05-03T08:57:11Z Cherene Pienaar cherene@discoverafricagroup.com Finally got your ducks in a row? It's time to dust off those travelling shoes and discover a beautiful part of South Africa's, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Durban, the largest city in KZN, not only boasts some of the most prime beaches in the world, it is also brimming with exciting activities. Here are five tourist attractions in Durban you have to consider when money is not a problem.

Top 5 tourist attractions in Durban 

1. The Vodacom Durban July: See and be seen

Witness the country's best thoroughbreds storm down to the finish line of the R2 million, Grade 1 Vodacom Durban July at Greyville in Durban in July. Meet some stylish locals as more than 56 000 South Africans are expected. Why not sit back and take in the excitement at one of the casual restaurants. Greyville's renowned Al Fresco area, The Paddock, is an excellent choice. 

According to the facilitators of the Vodacom Durban July, the "Sold Out" signs should not deter those who have not made reservations. There will always be the casual restaurants, in the main grandstand concourse and the popular Shorthead Restaurant on the first floor.

Above: See and be seen at the Durban July. Photo: South African Tourism

2. Take a rickshaw ride along the beach

According to travel guides there are only 20 registered ricksha-pullers in Durban. Don't worry, it is quite easy to spot them - just look for a colourfully decorated head-dress and a matching smiling face. Experience one of the greatest tourist attractions in Durban, aka the "Golden Mile". This fleet of 'tuk-tuk' type three-wheelers is a great way to see the 6 kilometres of Durban Beachfront. If you do need a car to get to all the Durban tourist attractions, however, it will be a good idea to organise your own car rental in Durban.

Why not take a Durban Beachfront Tour and explore Durban tourist attractions such as the recently constructed Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World and work your way down to the ‘uShaka Marine World’.

Do something different and take a rickshaw ride in Durban. Photo: MBoy68

3. Play golf at Windsor Park Municipal Golf Course

Wind down and try the slightly challenging Windsor Park Golf Course with some friends. The many trees make this course quite tricky and will determine your playing strategy at Windsor. With great weather all year round, this course in the heart of Durban looks like an Eden, even in autumn. Definitely a must when you're looking to enjoy Durban's attractions.

Playing a round of golf at the Windsor Park Municipal Golf Course is a great outdoors experience.

Photo: rbglasson

4. Take a city tour of Durban

Get to know the Central Business District of Durban on this city tour in Durban, and see the other side to this seaside city. On this tour you get the chance to explore various markets, beachfront shops and restaurants, take that rickshaw ride and chow down on a spicy pineapple; all of which are exclusive to the city of Durban.

Explore all there is to Durban city life on a City Tour in Durban. Tourist attractions like these are a must.

Photo: gallagher.michaelsean

5. Visit the Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary

Tired of beach and city life? The indigenous riverine forest is a must see and the half-hour self-guided trail winds itself through the forest and is a haven for birdlife. Explore many of the 150 bird species in the sanctuary, such as resident Spurwing Geese, White Faced Duck, Greenback Heron, Giant Kingfisher and Hamperkop.

Marvel at the beauty of 150 bird species at the Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary. Photo: frosty_white_raven

What are your favourite things to do in Durban? Share them with us below in the comment section!

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/tourist-attractions-in-durban-kwazulu-natal-without-a-budget/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1546 2012-04-26T05:46:46Z 2012-04-26T08:25:47Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com Kurland Hotel can be found along the lush run of South Africa's Garden Route. This luxurious boutique country hotel is nestled between the mountains and the pristine beach of Nature’s Valley, a mere 19 km from Plettenberg Bay.

Each of the twelve luxuriously appointed rooms foster their own well-manicured garden setting. Every room is blessed with stunning views overlooking the Tsitsikamma Mountains, the estate, paddocks, pool and gardens.

Watch this Kurland Hotel YouTube video that perfectly sums up the Kurland experience:

Book at Kurland Hotel, or choose from other simply luxurious hotels along the Garden Route in South Africa for your next getaway.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/kurland-hotel-youtube-video/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1530 2012-04-24T06:10:09Z 2012-04-24T16:07:10Z Cherene Pienaar cherene@discoverafricagroup.com Disabled travel can be a daunting experience, but with Discover Africa, it doesn't need to be. Discover Africa knows where to find accommodation in Africa that is as wheelchair-friendly as your home.

Disabled travel in Africa: Make it happen

There are various hotels and tours in Botswana, Namibia and South Africa that cater exclusively for travellers with disabilities. 

Here is a list of some of the hotels in Africa that are wheelchair-friendly:

Sun City Hotel in South Africa;

Halali Camp in Namibia; 

Windhoek Country Club Resort, also in Namibia; and

Chobe Marina Lodge in Botswana.

Just imagine: walkways with more than enough space for your wheelchair, friendly and understanding tour guides and patient travel companions.

According to Discover Africa's Senior Travel Consultant Natasha Bannister, disabled travel in Africa is easy to organise.  "Once you get in contact with us, we will discuss all your needs. If you need disabled-friendly accommodation, it can be organised. It is the primary priority of certain hotels to cater for people with disabilities."

“When we book accommodation for special needs travellers, we make sure that the hotel or guest house is wheelchair friendly, that the bathroom is equipped according to the needs of someone using a wheelchair, and the room must be on the ground floor.”

“If we book a flight for someone, we simply lodge a special request and state whether the person can get up by him- or herself, or will need assistance in getting up and walking.”

Ensuring the right accommodation for you

Occupational therapist Karin Coetzee specialises in disabled travel and is dedicated to the plight disabled people face on a daily basis when attempting to complete ordinary tasks in gaining access to public amenities, tourist attractions and buildings, and the disregard with which they are treated when they challenge why access is limited.

"Disabled people and able bodied people deserve access to all amenities available in our society to enrich and improve our quality of life" Karin says. 

Natasha totally agrees with Karin. "Depending on the type of disability the person has and the extent to which he or she can move, we will make sure that the needs of that person are met so that he or she can experience an enjoyable holiday in our beautiful country."

Car rental for disabled travel

Discover Africa's sister website, Drive South Africa, offers vehicles for people with all types of disabilities. Car rental for disabled travel can be organised to your specific needs. Drive South Africa offers vehicles with automatic transmission, convenient wheel chair access and hand controls.

Please view their range of rental vehicles available or contact them directly if you have very specific driving requirements.

If you want to protect your privacy and dignity while experiencing Africa at its best, Discover Africa and Drive South Africa are the booking agents to trust.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/disabled-travel-africa-has-never-been-this-accessible/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1508 2012-04-19T05:34:24Z 2012-04-19T08:32:25Z Cherene Pienaar cherene@discoverafricagroup.com Get a true country feel in the heart of the Karoo. Rosenhof Country House is just outside the small but renowned town of Oudtshoorn en route to the Cango Caves and Ostrich Farms. The homestead (Circa 1852), with its yellowwood beams and ceilings is a tasteful choice for the nostalgic wanderer.

Watch this short YouTube video to get an idea of what you can expect at Rosenhof Country House:

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/rosenhof-country-house-youtube-video/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1501 2012-04-12T13:00:12Z 2012-04-13T08:38:13Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com Perched on the Chobe River, Chobe Marina Lodge offers an authentic African experience rooted on the thriving plains of Botswana. The level of luxury, the exposure to wildlife and the ambience of each stay leaves guests feeling like they've had the privilege of sharing intimate moments with the African wilderness, taking home a refreshed appreciation for this calm stretch of earth.

See for yourself with this Chobe Marina Lodge YouTube video:

Delve into and adventure of wildlife, of luxury... of a lifetime. Book your stay at Chobe Marina Lodge.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/chobe-marina-lodge-youtube-video/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1494 2012-04-04T12:16:40Z 2012-04-10T09:33:41Z Cherene Pienaar cherene@discoverafricagroup.com Ever heard of the Barbel Run? You can be part of this experience on the Okavango Delta Fishing Package.

Stay at the Nxamaseri Island lodge for three days and get all of the following: 

• Your very own boat and guide for fishing;
• a bird walk around Nxamaseri Island;
• an afternoon guided boat trip;
• a fishing trip in the morning with private boat and guide or an alternative private mokoro ride

Take the Okavango Delta Fishing Package and discover this beautiful region with a loved one.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/okavango-delta-fishing-in-botswana-youtube-video/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1478 2012-03-28T05:52:32Z 2012-04-12T15:00:33Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com The table below gives you a variety of information about each country in the world. If you're planning to travel in Africa, you may find the international dialing codes useful when wanting to confirm further travel plans in different countries telephonically.

[Resource]

Amidst your travel itinerary, add an extra two weeks to your getaway to travel in Africa, for a chance to relax on a luxurious safari adventure.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/country-dialing-code-list/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1469 2012-03-22T06:50:37Z 2012-03-22T09:17:38Z Cherene Pienaar cherene@discoverafricagroup.com The Knysna Log-Inn Hotel tastefully combines the character and the spirit of the surrounding forests, along with modern conveniences and luxury.
Facilities within the lodge itself include a lush tropical pool area with an all-year-round swimming pool, wooden sun deck, Jacuzzi and sauna.

This short and sweet video illustrates the beauty of the Knysna Log-Inn perfectly...  

Book your stay at the Knysna Log-Inn.

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/knysna-log-inn-youtube-video/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1460 2012-03-19T08:04:20Z 2012-03-26T12:03:21Z Cherene Pienaar cherene@discoverafricagroup.com The Mother City offers a myriad of new experiences and this might be the very reason some people spend a few extra Rand on petrol to get to the city with the natural amphitheatre. Other than going up the mountain by cable car, this city is bursting with unforgettable things to do to make those at home super jealous.

Your itinerary is packed with great things to do in Cape Town 

Here are some highlights you may not have on your bucket list yet but you simply cannot miss out on:

1. Visit the only Diamond museum in the country

The Cape Town Diamond museum at the V&A Waterfront, showcases the rich history of all that glitters in South Africa. The Two Oceans Aquarium, also at the V&A Waterfront, is a must if you have time afterwards. Get to know the underwater world of both the Atlantic and Indian Ocean.

2. Visit Tokai Forest

Think trees that reach the heavens, think blue skies, think the fresh smell of pine needles... Tokai forest is a nature reserve where you can go for a picnic and let loose your inner child. On Saturdays the Tokai Forest Market attracts hundreds of Cape Town’s hippies and foodies. Here you can get organic food at unbelievably low prices. Buy a tin can of the best moerkoffie made with love and a generous helping of condensed milk... yum!

3. Just you and your kayak

Nothing matches the perspective from a two person kayak in the wide ocean, the river rapids or the waters of a peaceful lagoon. Cape Town summers bring warm sun and challenging waters on windy days whilst the winter brings cooler days and the perfect opportunity to spot whales. Don't let the fact that you've never held a paddle before put you off as expert guides and training centres are there to help.

4. Take the train to Kalk Bay

All aboard! Muizenberg, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay, Simon's Town. If you take the train at R10 per person you can explore these unique coastal towns in a day. With its quaint restaurants, colourful delis, boutique shops, friendly locals and fine cocktails, Kalk Bay is a favourite amongst most Capetonians. Enjoy a tapas platter at Cape to Cuba and watch the train pass by through the ceiling high windows. Let your eyes meet the vast blue ocean once again.

5. Enjoy true Africa cuisine

Mama Africa in Long Street is the place where you go when the craving for African cuisine is taking over. Mama’s game kebabs, Hunters game potjie and the kudu steak are some of the highlights on the menu. Booking is essential.

6. Abseil off Table Mountain

Before you skip this point altogether, I strongly suggest that you consider abseiling off Table Mountain. If petite and fragile Australian girls can do it, so can you. The guides, who refer to themselves as ‘height therapists’ guide you through every step. Walking along side a vertical strip of African rock is a liberating experience, leaving you with a “I really did something great today” feeling.

7. Visit Robben Island

Situated just a few kilometers from the V&A Waterfront, it was “home” to Nelson Mandela for almost 20 years. This island is a focal point for international resistance to the apartheid regime. Today it has become a symbol of freedom, the transformative power of forgiveness and a place of political pilgrimage.

8. Shark cage diving

Stare into the eyes of a Great White. Gansbaai’s picturesque Kleinbaai Harbour which is about a two hour scenic drive from Cape Town and about a forty-five minute drive from Hermanus is where you can enjoy a shark cage experience of a life time.

All dive equipment, towels and snacks are stocked, safety equipment is checked and the boat is fuelled prior to the passengers' arrival. Not to be missed!

9. High tea

Whether you opt for Mount Nelson, Table Bay Hotel of The Twelve Apostles, a 'high tea' is one of the trendiest and most luxurious things to do in Cape Town. This brings us to the last and most fabulous point of the top 10 things to do in Cape Town.

10. Take a stroll through the Company's Gardens

Established in 1652, the Company's Garden was layed out with the goal of turning it into a station to service spice-trading sailing ships on the long sea route to the east. People flock to the gardens for its beauty of its flora and the allure of its historic setting since it was proclaimed for public use in 1848. Important landmarks can be found in the garden, such as the lodge house for the slaves who built large parts of the historic city, the present day Houses of Parliament, the Iziko SA Museum and Planetarium, St George's Cathedral, the National Library of SA, the SA National Gallery, the Great Synagogue and Holocaust Centre and Tuynhuys, which is used by the President on State occasions.

With plenty to see and do, you're now geared to enjoy one of those unforgettable Cape Town holidays. Book your Cape Town car hire and Cape Town accommodation. Memorable experiences ahead!

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/top-10-things-to-do-in-cape-town/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1445 2012-03-16T04:44:58Z 2012-05-11T15:58:59Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com Self-drive safaris allow you to explore new stretches of Africa at your own pace. We get the appeal. However, the ‘be prepared’ gene is kicking in and you’re wondering what roads in Africa for a self-drive safari are like before the adventure begins. 

South Africa Roads

The roads in South Africa are very well-maintained and in order to keep them running smoothy, a number of toll roads can be found along a journey. The comprehensive road network runs through the country, making it easy to visit each province and their many attractions both on and off the beaten track. These factors make it a great destination for self-drive safaris in Africa.

Tips for South Africa roads:

• Drive on the left-hand side of the road
• Always wear a seat belt
• Distance is in kilometres

Namibia Roads

Namibia is a 4x4 enthusiast’s paradise. In easy driving, roads range from tarred, to requiring a 4x4, to out of bounds, unless in convoy. Only 12% of highways are paved in Namibia, however there is very good infrastructure of roads and you wouldn’t need more than a two-wheel drive vehicle to enjoy a self-drive holiday. Most of your driving will be done on hard gravel, not on soft dune sand as one may imagine. If you do decide to off-road it into the dunes, make sure you check with your insurance beforehand whether they will cover you in case of an accident.

Tips for Nambia roads in a 4x4:

• Your 4x4 should be equipped with 2 spare tyres
• If heading into the bush, opt for a long-range fuel tank or additional petrol canisters
• For sand driving, pack a shovel and a tyre pump

Botswana Roads

Botswana’s roads are well-developed with easy access to its neighbouring countries, and a good road network within the country. The majority of the roads are tarmac, however the rest of the roads are rough, sandy and badly signposted. If you’re heading into reserves, a 4x4 is essential. During the rainy season with is usually June to August, you really need to know your 4x4 and it’s capabilities to tackle the bush. The area gets very muddy and there are lots of water logged paths and estuaries. If you’re not a complete 4x4 fundi, you can also visit these areas on a fly-in safari.

Tips for Botswana roads:

• Know your 4x4
• Watch out for animals on unfenced roads
• Do not travel at night as obstacles are harder to see

Tanzania Roads

Not many of the roads in Tanzania are tarred. The main roads are in good condition, but the roads in reserves and parks are rough. These roads are not forgotten about however, they are constantly upgraded and maintained. Over the last five years the road network quality has improved with the highway from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza on Lake Victoria now being completely paved. Also, many of the roads have been upgraded from dirt roads to gravel roads.

Tips for Tanzania roads:

• Do not use excessive speeds
• Beware of fellow road user’s poor driving habits
• Beware of other vehicles being badly lit during night time driving

Kenya Roads

All Kenya’s main roads are tarred, however many of the roads require a 4x4 if you want to access them during the rainy season. When veering off the main roads and onto tracks, you’ll need to be a confident, experienced 4x4 driver as tricky conditions rear their head along many paths. Often routes are obscured by elephants pushing down trees, making for rather interesting obstacles. Even though driving conditions may get tough, the country is most definitely recommended for a self-drive safari as the area is beautiful and the journey hugely gratifying.

Tips for Kenya roads:

• Drive on the left hand side
• Foreigners will need an international driving permit
• Beware of night driving due to obstacles in your path

Zambia Roads

About 18% of the roads in Zambia are paved. After the rains most of the gravel roads are only passable when using a 4x4. The routes in Zambia are recommended for someone who has driven on a self-drive safari in Africa before. Once you venture off the tarmac, be prepared to enter some of the most beautiful and remote areas in Africa. The gravel roads take you past small villages that still pound maize and aren’t used to seeing Western faces.

Tips for Zambia roads:

• Road borders of Chembe, Kazungula, Kariba and Chirundu are open from 06h00 to 18h00
• Victoria Falls Bridge is open until 20h00
• 4x4 experience is needed to tackle Zambia tracks in the bush

Zimbabwe Roads

A lot of Zimbabwe is mapped out with paved highways. Gravel routes vary in difficulty from good road conditions in well signposted areas to tricky routes where experience is greatly needed.

Tips for Zimbabwe roads:

• Beware of potholes
• Speed limit in Zimbabwe is 120 km/h on open roads
• Speed limit in urban areas 60km/h

Mozambique Roads

About 19% of the main roads are tarred in Mozambique, the main road along the coast (EN1), being one of them. The roads are well maintained with regular upgrades. Many self-drive safari travellers get suck on off road track in Mozambique in cases like these it is very important to have a recovery kit with you in your 4x4.

Tips for Mozambique roads:

• Make sure your 4x4 is equipped with a recovery kit
• Have emergency help numbers handy in case you cannot get out of a pickle
• Make sure you have spare tyres

When you’re on a self-drive safari it is always important to drive carefully on all roads. Driving in conditions you are not used to, on paths you are unfamiliar with requires extremely caution. When you’re on a self-drive 4x4 safari it’s important to look right in front of you when driving as troublesome pot holes and other obstacles may be hiding just over the next hill. For a safe experience, drive slowly and enjoy the scenery.

Now that you know what roads in Africa for a self-drive safari are like, are you ready to go? Hire a 4x4 and pick your self-drive safari so that your spontaneity and our guidance can lead you on the adventure of a life-time.

Article Resources:

South Africa

Namibia

Botswana Resources

Tanzania Resources

Kenya

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Mozambique

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/roads-in-africa-for-a-self-drive-safari/

]]> tag:discoverafrica.com,2012:/5.1441 2012-03-15T06:05:26Z 2012-03-15T09:26:27Z Dalene Ingham-Brown dalene@discoverafricagroup.com Cape Town is still on a buzzing high from walking away with the title of World Design Capital 2014.

The Mother City truly is a gem and deserves all the attention it has been getting recently.

Check out Cape Town Tourism's latest campaign video and why you don't need a holiday, you need Cape Town!

Keen for a taste of Cape Town? Spoiled for choice, what will it be:

• Cape Town Things To Do
• Cape Town Attractions
• Cape Town Tours
• Cape Town Accommodation

Source: http://www.discoverafrica.com/blog/you-dont-need-a-holiday-you-need-cape-town-youtube-video/

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