What does Diane love about African travel?
For me, it’s mainly about the wildlife and landscapes. I always feel a deep sense of connection in the bush. What fascinates me about travelling in Africa is the positive impact many lodges have on wildlife and local communities. Travelling in Africa opens your eyes to the strong sense of community that exists everywhere you go on the continent.
What African countries have you travelled to?
I have visited South Africa, Mauritius, Botswana and Zimbabwe.
What is Diane’s favourite place in Africa?
Mana Pools has become one of my favourite places in Africa for its unique charm and stunning landscapes. The park offers dramatic views of the Zambian Escarpment with the Zambezi River flowing through it. The landscape feels almost like an open enchanted woodland, with trees trimmed by antelopes. This has led to fascinating behaviour among elephants, who stand on their hind legs to reach the higher branches.
One of the most memorable aspects of Mana Pools is the chance to explore on foot, getting close to wildlife in a way that feels intimate and natural. We had the opportunity to track wild dogs, approach elephants within a couple of meters, and canoe on the Zambezi River during sunset, surrounded by pods of hippos. Mana Pools offers a distinct and remarkable experience, providing a deeper connection to the environment and wildlife. It’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
What is your most memorable experience in Africa?
I went on a safari in the Eastern Cape and to be honest I wasn’t expecting much compared to the Kruger. However, I was blown away by the game drive experiences I had in Kwandwe. Our guide was awesome and took us on a night drive – where we got stuck amongst a herd of elephants. He turned off the vehicle and we all stayed still it was dark and all we could hear was the swooshing of the elephants ears as they walked past us. It was terrifying and exhilarating – I will never forget the sound of the ellies – they were so quiet!
What is your best advice for someone travelling to Africa?
Come with an open mind. Don’t read all the nonsense in the news about how dangerous it is. The people in Africa are warm and friendly, you will never experience anything like it.
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