Family Safari Holidays to Uganda

When planning your Family SafariHolidays you should consider visiting the country referred to by Winston Churchill as the Pearl of Africa – Uganda. This East African country has not yet fully developed as a tourist destination so there is still the opportunity to feel that you are discovering things for the first time. The fact that three quarters of Uganda’s annual tourist visitors are from other African countries shows you that it is a country worth visiting. If you do visit Uganda then you will have the chance to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural environment as well as tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Plains which is part of the Queen Elizabeth National Park. These tree climbing lions can only be seen in two places in the world so you must make time to see them lounging in the trees. During your Family Safari Holidays you should also visit the Murchison Falls National Park. The waterfall in this park is spectacular and if you go on a boat trip you will get to see crocodiles and hippos. Rwenzori National Park is comprised of a mountain range in south-west Uganda which borders the Democratic Republic of Congo. These snow capped mountains reach a height of 5,109 metres and definitely worth taking a hike in. If you are feeling very adventurous then a trip white water rafting along the Nile is recommended. Uganda offers the best white water rafting in Africa with a range of rapids available depending on your skill.

See gorillas in Uganda during your Safari Holidays

Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where mountain gorillas can be seen in their natural habitat. Seeing a few of the last 800 mountain gorillas in the world will be the highlight of your Family Safari Holidays in Uganda. Tracking mountain gorillas is possible in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The Bwindi National Park is 200 square miles in size and is a World Heritage site. There are 23 gorilla families living in the park and two of the families have been familiarized with humans so that they are comfortable with being visited by small groups of tourists. The gorillas in Uganda are still incredibly vulnerable from both the risk of poaching and capture for the illegal pet trade as well as conflicts with local farmers due to crop damage. Visiting one of these national parks during your Family Safari Holidays helps provide financing to enable staff to adequately protect these majestic animals.

Getting to Uganda for Safari Holidays

If you book your Family Safari Holidays through a tour operator then they will be able to advise you on flights. The main airport is Entebbe Airport and it has flights from most major destinations although direct flights from Europe are only possible from the UK, Brussels and Holland. The majority of tourists will require a visa to visit the country but do check with your nearest embassy. There is no train service in Uganda.

Discover Zambia as part of your Family Safari Holidays

Zambia is a big country with lots of different things to see. It is not yet fully on the tourist map so you can still go there and enjoy “the real Africa”. The key item on any itinerary to Zambia is Victoria Falls and you will want to prioritise visiting them during your Family Safari Holidays. The Kololo tribe that lived in the area in the 1800s described it as the “Mosi-Oa-Tunya” meaning “the smoke that thunders”. Nothing can prepare you for the awe-inspiring site of the waterfall and the falls are listed as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. 546 million cubic metres of water fall over the edge every minute. The waterfall is 2 kilometres wide and has a 100 metre drop. The Victoria Falls waterfall is faced by a cliff capped by a rain forest and you can follow a path along this cliff to view it at close range – just prepare to get soaked! Victoria Falls is part of the Zambezi River which travels through six countries to the Indian Ocean.  Your Family Safari Holidays should be planned so that you can take the time to travel along the Zambezi for a while and enjoy viewing wildlife along the river banks as well as perhaps indulging in some of the excellent fishing available.

Enjoy a traditional festival during your Family Safari Holidays

Zambia has a number of traditional festivals which take place throughout the year and if you happen to be on your Family Safari Holidays at the same time as one of these is on then you should definitely go and take a look. The Kazanga Ceremony is Zambia’s oldest traditional festival and has been taking place between June and August for the past 500 years. Another major festival is the Kuomboka Festival which celebrates the migration of the Lozi King from his dry season home in Lealui to his wet season palace in Limulunga. The king wears an elaborate costume and travels down with the river with a flotilla of barges. All of the festivals have music, dancing and delicious local food and will truly be a highlight of your Family Safari Holidays.

Eating and drinking during your Zambian Family Safari Holidays

All the big game viewing and amazing sites of your Family Safari Holidays will leave you with a big appetite at the end of the day and you won’t regret trying out the local delicacies. The main food of Zambia is a maize product called nsima which has a similar consistency to mashed potatoes. You roll it into a ball and dip it into stews with your hands. The local stews or relishes are very healthy and are filled with meats and vegetables including okra and pumpkin leaves. A meal of nsima and relish will only set you back about $1. You can wash your meal down with the local beer called Mosi or perhaps try maize based soft drink called maheu. Of course western food is also widely available for the unadventurous.

Enjoy Family Safari Holidays to the African island of Madagascar

The beauty of family safari holidays in Africa is that there are numerous itineraries to stunning beaches and islands around the east coast with the Indian Ocean. The largest of all these islands is Madagascar which is in fact the fourth largest island in the world. Although there is no Big Game in Madagascar it is incredibly biodiverse. Because at one point the land mass of Madagascar broke off from the coast of Africa, the animals there evolved differently. As a result Madagascar has some of the most fascinating wildlife anywhere on the planet including striking creatures such as ring tailed lemurs, with their long tails and huge eyes. Madagascar is also a cultural melting pot making it one of the most rewarding places that offer family safari holidays. As well as traditional safaris on four-by-four vehicles to the reserves it is also possible to use Madagascar as a base for an island hopping trip through the country. Furthermore for an unforgettable experience you can sail around the coast on the classical African dhow boats.

Family Safari Holidays to the National Parks of Madagascar

As well as numerous wildlife reserves, strict nature reserves and private reserves there are 20 different national parks in Madagascar. The Masoala National Park is in the north east of the island and it encompasses the Nosy Mangabe Reserve. With 2,300 square kilometres of protected rainforest it is the biggest national park on the island and, having been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, a must-see if you come here for family safari holidays. As well as 10 species of lemur and various frogs and owls that live in the forest, the park also has an expanse of coastline where it is possible to see humpback whales. If you are interested in trekking then the Isalo National Park has a variety of challenging terrains. Another place with a huge cross-section of rare animals is the Andringitra national park. Visitors to this large area of ravines and mountains can see hundreds of species of birds as well as lot of lemurs and frogs. Most of the park is dissected by the Tropic of Capricorn so your safari holidays are sure to be hot and steamy.

What should you know about Family Safari Holidays to Madagascar?

Unfortunately although Madagascar is such a unique place it is also troubled. The country has had an unstable history so you should also check out the political situation on the Foreign Commonwealth office website before travelling. However your family safari holidays operator will be able to give you guidance so follow their advice and you will be fine. The best time of year to go to Madagascar is from March to December as the other three months of the year constitute the rainy season. Animals to watch out for are the stray dogs which can sometimes be found wandering through the cities. If you are keen to visit the capital Antananarivo don’t go out on your own at night.

Rwanda Safari Holidays

Although Rwanda is a relatively small country in the east of Africa it is a great destination for family safari holidays as it can offer something that only one other country can – Mountain Gorillas. Rwanda, along with Uganda, has the sort of mountainous terrain and rainforest in which these huge beasts make their habitat. With the help of an experienced guide you can track the gorillas through the forest in the footsteps of famous conservation experts such as David Attenborough and Dian Fossey. The latter is the famous zoologist about whose life the movie Gorillas in the Mist was made. The scenery in Rwanda is worthy of any Hollywood epic as the country is situated in the eastern part of the Albertine Rift, so you will enjoy family safari holidays here immensely.

What are the benefits of Family Safari Holidays to Rwanda?

If you visit Rwanda not only are you travelling to what is nowadays a relatively safe and stable country, but you will have a family safari holidays experience that not many other people can claim to share. By going to Rwanda you are investing in a country that is starting to rely more and more on tourism. Therefore your money will be put back into the conservation projects to help these primates which are heavily endangered - Mountain Gorillas have sadly always been a prime target for poachers. Furthermore there are also fascinating habitats such as the Nyungwe rainforest which is home to hundreds of smaller species of flora and fauna and is an ideal location for bird watching. Nyungwe is one of three national parks in Rwanda including the Akagera National Park. Akagera is a great place to see other Big Game during your family safari holidays in Rwanda such as elephants and buffalos with giraffes and zebras present too. The gorillas are in the largest of the national parks, the Volcanoes National Park, which spreads across the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. It is in the Volcanoes National Park that the awe inspiring silverback gorilla can be found, one of the biggest and most intelligent mammals in Africa. Although the trek into the forest to find these gorillas can be arduous, safari holidays companies offer luxury accommodation in Rwanda so that you can ease off any aches and trains once you are back at the lodge.

How to arrive on your Family Safari Holidays to Rwanda

To get to the Rwanda international airport in Kigali you can either connect from neighbouring countries such as Uganda or get a direct flight from Brussels airport in Europe. If you come from countries such as the USA, the UK and South Africa, there is no visa requirement to enter Rwanda. Otherwise you will need a visa which does not cost much. However, whether or not you need a visa it is necessary to have a vaccination for yellow fever if you want to return to the country you are travelling from. Family Safari holidays to Rwanda can be as short as three days and as long as you want.

Relax during your Safari Holidays on Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago

Mozambique is best known for its gorgeous white sand beaches. With over 1,000 km of coastline along the Indian Ocean you can be sure of finding the perfect beach to relax on during your Family Safari Holidays. Arguably one of the key areas of coastline in Mozambique is the Bazaruto Archipelago which is a stunning island resort and marine park. The archipelago is made up of five islands and is the only official marine reserve in the country. Described as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the park protects all of the coral reefs around the islands. The archipelago has range of environments to explore including sand dunes, tidal flats and inland saline lakes and these provide a haven for a variety of seabirds. The coral reefs also provide homes for many species of fish as well as marine mammals. In fact this area of the ocean provides a home for the largest population of dugongs along the coast. Dugongs are large marine mammals which are the closest modern relative to Steller’s Sea Cow which were hunted to extinction in the 18^th century. Scuba diving is the main activity in the archipelago with opportunities to see dolphins, hump back whales, whale sharks, sharks, manta rays and turtles. A more leisurely activity is to go on a dhow safari along the coast. This area of coast is ranked as the best black marlin fishing destination in the eastern Indian Ocean so it’s a great spot to indulge in some fishing during your Family Safari Holidays.

Safari Holidays stop in Ilha de Mozambique

Ilha de Mozambique is definitely worth taking a trip to when visiting Mozambique during your Family Safari Holidays. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which has been described as haunting and magical. The small island is attached to the mainland by a 3.5km causeway. It was the capital of Mozambique for four centuries as well as previously being used by Arab traders. Ilha is a unique mix of colonial Portuguese architecture and old Swahili architecture. In centuries past the Ilha was the site of slave trading as well as spice and gold trading. The fort at the southern end of the island contains the Church of Nossa Senhora do Baluarte which is the oldest surviving European building in the southern hemisphere and dates back to 1522. Other buildings worth seeing include the Palace and Chapel of Sao Paulo which was built in 1610 as a Jesuit college and is now a museum. There are also several mosques and a Hindu temple. A trip to Ilha de Mozambique will add a touch of culture to your Family Safari Holidays.

Getting to Mozambique for your Safari Holidays

Almost all visitors except those from neighbouring countries will require a visa to enter Mozambique for their Family Safari Holidays. Mozambique’s policy is to charge you the same cost for your visa as what your country charges Mozambicans. To fly to Mozambique from most countries will require flying via South Africa.

Tailor Made Safari Holidays to Africa

There is so much flexibility on planning a safari holiday with thousands of bespoke tour options. Firstly you can choose whether you want to fly straight into your safari destination, for instance to a small airport such as Kilimanjaro international which is known as the ‘The Gateway to Africa’s Wildlife’. There you are not far from the main national park of the Serengeti Plain. The airport is a great base for trip to the most famous tourist attractions of Tanzania including the Ngorongoro Crater and the Arusha national Park. The latter has huge volcanoes and craters as well as diverse of African wildlife including monkeys, buffalo and giraffes. Alternatively you can fly to Dar es Salaam airport, also in Tanzania for a tour of the country’s largest city before setting out on your safari.

Most companies offer a tailor made safari booking form so that you can specifically list what you want to see and the guides and staff can work out the best way of showing you everything during your holiday. The tours can be geared to the size and composition of your group which means that different events can be scheduled to entertain children if you are taking them on safari. You may also have specific interests while on safari such as walking tours or bird watching which can be catered to individually.

A Private African Safari Holiday

The benefits of having a private African safari are evident right from the moment you make the booking; you can talk with a tour operator one-on-one so that every detail of your trip can be fleshed out before you even get on the plane. Tour groups can get an individual guide for their trip with their own vehicle. That means they can spend as long at each place as they want to with no one giving them the hurry up. Having a private safari means that you will also be guaranteed a window seat during the trip which is more comfortable as well as giving you a better vantage point. Another advantage to a private holiday safari is that you can have your own chef at meal times to prepare exactly what you want. This is great for children, vegetarians and anyone with special dietary requirements.

See Gorillas on a Safari Holiday to Rwanda

Rwanda may be known for the brutal genocide which took place against the Tutsis, but tourism can help give this fragile country a future. Known as the land of a thousand hills Rwanda has incredible forests which are home to the illusive mountain gorilla. One of the largest animals on the planet, these huge apes are very endangered due to poaching and the destruction of their habitat. Trips to see the mountain gorillas help to fund the conservation effort. You can stay at the foothills of the volcanoes national park before trekking through the mists to see the gorillas. One of the most reputable companies, Primate Safaris, charges £2,799 per person for the safari. If the price sounds expensive bear in mind that this is not like an ordinary safari as you have to trek through the jungle to see the animals and great care needs to be taken not to disturb them. As well as gorillas you can also see other fabulous primates such as Chimpanzees and red tailed Columbus monkeys. Rwanda also has the advantage of being a relatively small country within Africa which makes it easily accessible for safaris with not too much driving involved. Visitors have the choice of both luxury and budget accommodations on their trip.

Combine a Safari Holiday with a Golf Holiday

Not only does Africa offer unforgettable safari experiences, but many of the most popular countries including South Africa are developing into all-round tourist destinations. Therefore it is possible to combine your safari trip with the opportunity to play golf in a remarkable setting. South African golf courses can cater to beginners and those who want to have some fun with the family as well as seasoned professionals who are looking for a challenge. The biggest bonus is perhaps the year-round sunshine and clear skies which makes the ideal backdrop for thrilling fairways and obstacles.

The ultimate place to combine a safari holiday with a round of golf is the Leopard Creek Country Club. You can actually see large animals such as the hippopotamus as you walk around the course. Once you have whetted your appetite for big game make the short drive north to the famous Kruger National Park.

The beautiful capital city of Cape Town makes an ideal base for any safari to the country and it is also home to many golf courses. A fantastic day trip could be to the heart of the wine producing country where you are close to the Erinvale golf course. Near to Table Mountain is the Milnerton Golf Course which hosts the prestigious South African Open golf tournament. This links course also gives spectacular panoramas of the city below. There are also numerous places to play golf on the Western Cape.

Some of the best golf courses are near to Pilanesberg and the Sun City resort and Casino. This is where the most famous South African golfer Gary Player designed his own course at the country club of the Nedbank Challenge.

A Safari Holiday is Perfect for any Special Occasions

Many couples choose to incorporate their honeymoon with a safari trip around Africa. There is no better way to make sure that your safari holiday is memorable. After the stress of planning a big wedding relax in one of the most open and free landscapes in the world. Africa offers a sumptuous visual feast for any photographer and your honeymoon snaps will be even more exotic when they are interspersed with pictures of lions, elephants and leopards. Experienced safari guides can provide all the help needed along the way, whether it is taking a photo or pointing out hidden wildlife. They can also set up your special occasions. For instance you can enjoy a candlelit dinner for two in the middle of the Serengeti Plain, something which is sure to make all of your friends and family jealous. Two of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Africa are the Seychelles Islands and Mauritius. Why not enjoy a week of big game watching, and then spend the second week relaxing on the beach?

Enjoy Adventure Sports on your African Safari Holiday

For most people the thrill of seeing big game in Africa is enough to get their hearts pumping, but for the real adrenaline junkies out there it is also possible to enjoy adventure sports. These can be as relaxed as a hot air balloon ride or a canoe trip down the Zambezi River at sunset. Alternatively planned excursions can be as high-octane as quad-biking down the sand dunes of Namibia. If you preferred not to be cooped up in a jeep during a safari tour and then it is possible to see animals on horseback which makes for a truly authentic bush experience. Meanwhile on the east coast of Africa the Indian Ocean makes the perfect place for a whole host of exciting water sports.

Top Botswana Safari Attractions

There is much to see and do in Botswana and tourism mainly centres around its numerous national parks and natural vistas.

The Republic of Botswana is a relatively small landlocked country of around two million people and most of its area is taken up by the Kalahari Desert. This is worth seeing in itself as it is the oldest desert on the planet and has seen many incredible geological shifts over the centuries. The Kalahari Desert is part of a wider area of the Kalahari Basin which is more than five times the size of Texas and spreads across the neighbouring African countries. The fact that the area is so old and has been unchanged for many millennia accounts for the great array of wildlife. In fact you can find more species of tree in Botswana alone than in the whole of Europe. Even the desert comes alive with all sorts of grasses and wild flowers after the rains.

The five best Botswana Safari destinations

1)  The Okavango Delta is one of the most diverse natural areas in Botswana. This vast area of inland water can be transversed during your safari using the traditional boats made by the Mokoros tribe. Within the Okavango Delta is Lake Makgadikgadi. It was once served by numerous different rivers but eventually began to shrink. After the Okavango Delta was blocked a huge delta was created and this in turn led to a giant area of salt pans the size of Switzerland.

2)  The Moremi Game Reserve is located to the east of the Okavango Delta. It has lagoons which are great for bird watching and areas of savannah which you can drive through with a four by four vehicle. If you are really lucky you may see a leopard in one of the shady areas of forest which lie nearby. The national park was named after a tribal chief. The sense of local pride is important here and one of the main attractions is Chief’s Island.

3)  The Chobe national park is the third largest game park in Botswana and has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the continent. To the northwest is an area of marshland by the Linyanti River which attracts many animals such as hippopotamuses and crocodiles. The Nogatsaa grass woodland area nearby is home to elands, the largest of the African antelopes. The Sauvti marsh attracts migratory animals and predators and is the place to see everything from packs of lions to herds of zebras. The Serondela area is excellent for seeing birds as well as large animals such as elephants and giraffes.

4)  To find out more about the culture and ancestry of Botswana see more than four and a half thousand cave paintings at Tsodilo Hills. The importance of preserving the area was recognised by granting it UNESCO World Heritage status.

5)  The Central Kalahari Game reserve is the second biggest game reserve in the world and no trip to Botswana would be complete without seeing it. It contains a kaleidoscope of wild animal varieties from the Red hartebeest to the Brown hyena and the Blue wildebeest.

Combine your honeymoon with a Botswana Safari

You can combine a trip to the wildlife reserves on a Botswana safari with some of the world’s most romantic activities. Just a short plane flight away is the Victoria Falls, the Seychelles and the Maldives, all of which are considered top honeymoon destinations. For an unforgettable memory in Botswana itself why not take a hot air balloon across the game reserves? Ask your safari organiser about various honeymoon packages.

Flora to look out for on a Botswana Safari

Plants play an equally important role in the lives of Botswana locals and animals. Much of the Botswana flora has both religious significance and medicinal properties, having been worshipped and used for centuries.

Trees and plants in Botswana can be used to treat almost every imaginable ailment and assist in day-to-day life. The bark of the Sycamore fig tree is said to cure a sore throat while ashes from Leadwood can be used as toothpaste.

Knowing which plants to look out for in Botswana will also give you a clue as to the patterns of the animals. For instance elephants are attracted to the fan palm fruits when they ripen in August. Locals also use this plant to make a particularly potent palm wine.

Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for the African Mangosteen tree as this is a home to the Flap-necked chameleon and is also used by Green pigeons for nesting. The fruit of this tree also make a strong liqueur while its bark contains gum.

One of the most iconic trees in Botswana is the baobab. This huge tree has an incredibly large trunk and it is believed to have great spiritual significance.

This is just one of many attractive trees that grace the Botswana safari landscape. They include the Mokotshong tree which is one of the biggest in the country so you cannot miss it. Meanwhile the Moporoto tree is known as the Sausage tree because of the huge long fruit that hang from its branches. The tree is the subject of tribal rituals while the Mokoro tribe craft various items from the large fruit which can weigh 3 kg.

Plants are even used for hunting purposes and the poison can be made from the fever-berry in order to kill fish and still eat them safely afterwards.

Fauna to look out for on a Botswana Safari

Botswana has one of the richest environments in the world and is a premier destination for seeing big game. Imagine the world's largest outdoor zoo and you'll have an idea of some of the incredible creatures on display.

As well as lions and elephants and the rhinos, you can also see animals such as zebras, baboons and hyenas. Despite there being many exotic predators such as Leopards, one of the most dangerous animals is actually the bad-tempered Cape buffalo. The hippopotamus is also very territorial and must be treated with care. And of course the waters are teeming with crocodiles, so always be careful around the rivers and watering holes. One of the largest animals on a Botswana safari is actually the most peaceful, the giraffe.

Visitors on Safari are advised not to blink too often otherwise they might miss some of the world's fastest animals such as the Tsessebe, the cheetah and Impala.

While there are many awe-inspiring large animals, also pay attention to the smaller ones. Although you are unlikely to be able to spot them, the bushbaby is a very cute and distinctive small mammal. Slightly smaller but no less beautiful is the Emperor Moth. If you are lucky one might become attracted to your camp lights at night.

Botswana has many beautiful varieties of birds, reptiles and insects. There are also some to watch out for. Botswana has 60 different species of snake and 12 of them are venomous.

The best time of year to go on a Botswana Safari

The best time of year to go on a Botswana safari is during the dry season between May and November. June and August is the coolest period while October is the hottest month.

Botswana Safari Luxury Accommodation

Accommodation on a Botswana Safari has become much more modern over the last decade. Where once you might have expected a simple camp with hot water if you were lucky, today there are huge double beds available in romantic surroundings within canvas tents. That way you can look out across the spectacular African views from extremely comfortable surroundings. Another nice touch is the fact that most places have an open fireplace to enjoy at the end of a long day’s safari.

What to expect from your Botswana Safari accommodation

While this country in Africa is one of the most modern and comfortable to visit in terms of amenities, you should not go on safari unless you plan to rough it to some extent.

Everything is geared towards the comfort of the customer and you can have a fantastic holiday without having to stay in a five-star hotel. However there is something for everyone with both budget and top-of-the range hotels in Botswana available.

All the luxury accommodations in Botswana have ensuite bathrooms so there is no need to truck into the bush. However you might still enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor shower.

Most of the rooms offer desks for reading and correspondence while a telescope is often provided so that you can look out into the distance. Many camps will also provide visitors with a camera that they can use the duration of stay. Check with them whether this is the case before travelling as obviously cameras take up a lot of luggage space.

While the rooms generally do not have air conditioning there are large overhead fans to keep you cool and blow away the insects.

If you are particularly keen on air conditioning then consider staying in one of the hotels in Botswana. They can run safari excursions while offering such luxuries as swimming pools and live entertainment during the evening. However the safari lodges are generally better for those whose main concern is to see as much wildlife as possible.

Bear in mind that the camps are encouraged to move every 10 years in order to allow the vegetation around them to grow back.

An environmentally friendly Botswana safari

Sustainability is very important to safari operators in Botswana. The camps are generally built with thatched reeds which is a sustainable material.

Understandably it is a challenge to have energy suppliers in such a remote location. That is why many of the camp buildings are now fitted with solar roof panels to harness the sun's energy. This is mainly used to heat water for bathing.

Safari camps avoid using fuel where possible which means cutting down on the big game drives and avoiding noisy generators. There is even the choice of taking a safari on horseback.

The camps also practice recycling as well as eco-friendly cleaning. They try to teach their visitors about socially responsible tourism so that the mindset is not just about what you can take from Botswana, but what you can give back to the country too.

When you go out on your botswana safari you will be guided by qualified native. You can do a trip where you learn about the traditional hunting and cooking techniques of the bushmen, which are more environmentally-friendly than modern methods. It is even possible to take boat trips in the traditional handmade Mokoros boats.

It is of upmost importance to consider the Botswana environment during your trip. Wild animals can be attracted to human settlements if rubbish is left lying around. It is to both your benefit and theirs to keep the area clean.

What to bring on a Botswana Safari

Because space is limited on the safari jeeps, most companies will give a guide of what to take before travelling. Try and keep your belongings to one suitcase with only a few items of each type of clothing. Bright colours or white are not suitable for Safari as they alert the animals. Remember that if you are crossing a border you should dress appropriately and that means no bare chests, no bare feet and no bikini tops. Remove your sunglasses or hats so that you look open and polite to the officials.

Tourists on Botswana Safari should bring their usual accessories as well as a torch, a water bottle, (both essential) washing powder and a pen knife. A plastic bag is advisable to keep any wet clothes in. If you want to wash your clothes while you are on holiday then bring a plug, a washing line and pegs. While mattresses are provided you are advised to bring a sleeping bag, though these can also be hired on arrival.

5 Indispensable Botswana Safari Items

1)      Camera

Botswana is known for its incredible ecosystem and this is a Mecca for professional wildlife photographers. Of course you can have just as much fun as an amateur, but don't forget to bring a camera. Some Safari lodgings will offer them as part of the package, for instance you can get a Canon 4D camera at the Zarafa Camp.

2)      Insect Repellent

Don't let discomfort spoil your holiday to Botswana. Insect repellent is essential to avoid lots of nasty bites. It is also one of the most effective ways of preventing malaria along with a mosquito net.

3)      Sturdy Walking Shoes

With a guide you can get an in-depth and up close and personal view of Botswana, but only if you have the proper attire. Thick socks and shoes are required to protect your feet because the terrain is varied. Try the Kanana Mokoro Trail.

4)      Sunscreen

It is hot and dry for most of the year in Botswana so you will need sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt and a hat to protect your skin. Nights can get cold though so be sure to take enough warm clothing and a protective waterproof jacket is a must during the rainy season.

5)      First-aid kit

While your Botswana safari guides will be able to offer help with any problems it is always advisable to take a first-aid kit. It should include basics such as antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirins, laxatives/anti-diarrhoea pills and sachets of rehydrate powder.

Stay Safe on a Botswana Safari

Botswana has a low crime rate though it has increased slightly recently. The chances of being attacked by a wild animal whilst on a safari are also very slim but you should take precautions. Stay in the car at all times unless instructed to do otherwise by your guide.

The biggest threat to the traveller is probably from catching malaria in the Okavango Delta and the Chobe National Park, both in the north of Botswana.

Bottled water should be drunk at all times, though in theory it is safe to drink the chlorinated tap water in urban areas. In rural areas you should not even use the water for making ice cubes or brushing your teeth. It can give you diarrhoea so it is best to take Imodium tablets with you as a precaution.

Never practice unprotected sex in Botswana as it has the second highest reported HIV rate in the world at around 24%. That means that even if you are dressing a child’s wound you should wear protective clothing.  

Botswana Safari Tops Luxury Travel Wish-list for 2011

For travellers who want a luxurious yet exciting trip in 2011, a safari in Botswana ticks all the boxes.

That is why Botswana has just been voted as one of the most desirable locations to visit on the African continent, especially for tourists who are keen to catch sight of big game.

Travel and lifestyle magazine Condé Naste has just added a total of nine different Botswana Safari lodges and camps to their list of top 2011 travel destinations.

The magazine aims to highlight the most rewarding places to travel to across the globe, whether you want a vibrant atmosphere travel or quiet holiday seclusion.

The Condé Naste Gold list assesses these Botswana accommodations against all the best travel accommodations worldwide.

This list includes such exotic names as the Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, the Savute Elephant Camp by Orient Express and the Khwai River Lodge run by the Wilderness Safaris company in Botswana.

Other notable Botswana entries in the Gold list were Little Mombo, a camp in the Okavango Delta, which scored top marks in the category for best locations. It is located on an island with amazing views of the floodplains around.

5 Reasons to go on a Botswana Safari

1)      The Chance to See Big Game

Botswana has a vibrant and well-preserved ecosystem and many national parks. Tourists come from far and wide to visit parks such as the Central Kalahari game reserve which contains many lions, elephants and other large animals such as wildebeest. Whether you want to see big game close up or from afar it can be arranged on your trip.

2)      A Unique Cultural Experience

As the African country which encompasses most of the Kalahari desert, Botswana is also home to the San bushman tribe. A good safari will give you the chance to enjoy their company. You will also be charmed by the friendliness of the local guides.

3)      Botswana is a Safe and Stable Country

With a robust economy that gets strong support from tourism as well as diamond mining, visitors are treated well and there is little political instability. Botswana companies have a lot of safari experience and so you are sure to get the best service.

4)      See the ‘Smoke that Thunders’

Botswana is one of the African countries which gives access to the incredible Victoria Falls. Get a flight with Air Botswana to Kasane, then make a short drive of around one and a half hours.

5)      Ease of Entry to Botswana

Most tourists do not need a visa to enter Botswana. 67 countries including the United States of America, the United Kingdom and the EU nations can arrive freely. You will arrive at the Sir Seretse Khama airport in Gaborone. There are also many points of entry by car.

Booking a Botswana Safari is simple

There are thousands of companies which offer Botswana Safari holidays so by shopping around you can get great deals.

Most will involve flights in and out of Johannesburg airport in South Africa, and then at least 10 days of travelling. A fortnight is probably the minimum amount of time that you need. Remember that the travel distances in Africa are massive.

In the meantime there is a huge choice of itineraries. You can combine a trip to Botswana with visiting the Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe, and choose from many different national parks and reserves.

Accommodations can also range from basic to luxury, allowing the ability to work within your price range. Check whether your meals are included and if not budget for them separately.

South Africa Safaris to the West Coast National Park

The West Coast National Park is an exciting park with ocean views of the Atlantic. The park is best visited in the spring time (in South Africa spring runs between August and October) when an abundance of wild flowers make it very photogenic. Head for the Postberg Flower Reserve to see the best blooms. The West Coast National Park is a favourite for bird watchers and is a good place to see some of the most distinctive African birds including large flocks of Flamingos, penguins and the ostrich. Located about an hour and a half to the north of Cape Town (which is brief by South African driving standards) it also has some very scenic driving routes along the R27 coastal road. The West Coast National Park is one of the main nature parks in the Western Cape and it covers more than one hundred square metres. The park stretches from the salt marshes of Langebaan Lagoon in the north down to Yzerfontein town in the south.  

South Africa Safari to the Karoo National Park

The Karoo National Park is one of the most distinctive national parks in South Africa. It used to be volcanically active which is why many strange looking rock formations and mountains still remain. This is the place to see the rare black rhinoceros and other endangered species. The Karoo National Park is also a testament to the ancient history of South Africa with many fossils having been found here. Because this part of the Western Cape used to be under the sea, sediment preserved the bodies of deceased creatures. Some of the fossils which were found date all the way back to the Mesozoic Era, making them more than three million years old.
The park was founded in 1979 with the purpose of helping conserve the wildlife of South Africa. From then up until the present day many of these endangered animals were actually brought here so that they could live in peace and try to regroup their numbers. One particular experiment was the Quagga project in which the effort was made to bring back to life a near extinct sub-species of the plains zebra. The project had mixed success with some hybrids being born that looked almost like Quaggas.
As an area of semi-arid desert the Karoo National Park attracts a number of small mammals like tortoises and the Riverine rabbit, as well as the predators which hunt them such as the Black Eagle. The park is located in Karoo, near Beaufort West, which is in the Western Cape.

South Africa Safaris to the Mountain Zebra National Park

If you are on the Eastern Cape of South Africa then the Mountain Zebra National Park is one of the most intriguing national parks for a South Africa Safari. It is also one of the oldest, having been formed in 1937 with the express aim of preserving the Cape Mountain Zebra. This was a difficult task and there were initially only a handful of the nearly extinct zebras left to breed. But a local farmer traded the park 11 zebras in return for another animal called a blesbok and by 1964 there were 25 Cape Mountain Zebras. Over the years the park increased in size and now there are around 250 Cape Mountain Zebras. The park also acted as a refuge for other animals including the eland, the cape buffalo, the gemsbok and the caracal. In fact wildlife at the Mountain Zebra National Park comes in all conceivable colours including the black wildebeest, the grey rhebok, the red hartebeest and the black rhino. 

South Africa Safaris to the Table Mountain National Park

The Table Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in South Africa and is run by the national parks association. It is defined by Table Mountain, a huge and attractive landmark which overlooks Cape Town. It is also the location for the Cape of Good Hope which has been a beacon for seafarers over the ages as they passed around the south African Continent before the Suez Canal was built. A typical South Africa safari route may see visitors pass from Cape Point in the south all the way up to Signal hill in the north via Silvermine and Lion’s Head. The Silvermine Nature Reserve is very popular for mountain-biking while the Lion’s Head pinnacle is a very distinctive geological feature which affords spectacular views over the city below. 

In Table Mountain Park is the intriguingly named Devil’s Peak which contains numerous hiking trails and a memorial to Cecil Rhodes who founded the diamond company De Beers. Devil’s Peak can also be seen from the Newlands Cricket Ground where the national team plays their Cape Town matches. In terms of animals, Devil’s Peak is home to game such as Wildebeest, Zebra and Elands as well as smaller mammals such as the mongoose. The Table Mountain National Park is more than ten years old and used to be known as the Cape Peninsula National Park. It was set up with the aim of protecting rare plants, especially the fynbos scrubland.

South Africa Safaris to the Greater Addo Elephant National Park

The Greater Addo Elephant National Park is a mega park near Port Elizabeth which contains a number of other game parks. Every year around 12,000 tourists visit Greater Addo. It is the only park in the world to have the Big Seven, a term coined by South Africa to acknowledge their marine heritage. As well as the Big Five of lions, buffaloes, rhinos, leopards and elephants, the sea around the Greater Addo Elephant National Park contains whales and great white sharks. It also has five out of the seven main vegetation zones in South Africa, which are known as biomes.

The South Africa Safari game parks include the Addo elephant park which was founded eighty years ago to provide a home to the rapidly diminishing elephant population. From only 11 elephants in 1931 they have run a successful conservation effort raising the number of these incredible beasts up to nearly 500 specimens. The success of the park meant that it was expanded and grew to encompass other parks and islands such as Bird Island. Bird Island got its name by being an exceptional habitat for breeding African pelicans and gannets. Today the colony of gannets now numbers more than one hundred thousand birds. As well as exceptional wildlife viewing, the Greater Addo Elephant National Park has all the amenities you need including shops, accommodation and restaurants.

South African Safaris to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park

For an insight into how humans lived in South Africa thousands of years ago, visit the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. It is the only National Park in the Free State and attracts tourists who come to see ancient cave paintings and incredible fossils. Dinosaur eggs have even been found in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This area near Lesotho is stunningly beautiful and it is named for its golden landscape which is even more memorable when the sun is setting. Bird watchers can see hundreds of species of African birds and there is also big game in the form of zebras and elands. 

A South Africa Safaris Diving Holiday

A South Africa Safari holiday does not just have to take place on dry land and the country offers some of the world’s best dive sites. Literally every type of dive is catered to across thousands of miles of coastline which is home to all sorts of aquatic life and shipwrecks. South Africa also has coastline with two different oceans, the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean. There are some magnificent shelves which can be seen by experienced divers.

Although there is no legal requirement for diving certification in South Africa, most companies will require at least PADI Open water certification unless you are doing a trial dive. Diving in South Africa usually requires a high level of fitness and expertise because the water is cold, the surf is powerful and the currents are strong. The main currents include the cold Benguela current and the warmer Agulhas current. If the conditions are deemed too rough then your dive operator might cancel the dive. If the dive goes ahead but you still do not feel comfortable with the degree of difficulty then it is up to you to voice concerns.

Depending on where you want to dive the water temperature can vary massively and so consider whether to wear a dry suit or a wet suit. In the north east a wetsuit is mostly protective as the water is very warm at 24 degrees Celsius. If you are not a confident diver there are other options which include diving at locations inland and even aquariums.

The South Africa seas are mostly known for being home to large fish and mammals such as sharks and whales, but there are some interesting small fish too. One of the best places to see marine life is the tropical reefs along the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

 South Africa Safaris - Diving on the West Coast

Although it does not at first glance look as though there is much to see off the west coast of South Africa there are in fact many colourful invertebrates which prefer the cooler water temperatures here. One of the highlights is the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area. False Bay has good temperate water for diving with the chance of seeing sea turtles and plenty of fascinating wrecks. Enjoy the Tafelberg and Klein reefs, Whittle Rock and the MV Aster wreck among many other options. In Hermanus there are many exciting dives such as the Blow Hole, the Boiling Point and the Table Top Whale Rock.

South Africa Safaris - Diving on the East Coast

                   The East Coast of South Africa is an excellent place to see large groups of fish, though watch out for feeding frenzies. Sharks and other predators are attracted to the east coast where there are mass spawnings of Chokka squid and sardines. Many sea birds also hunt for these animals, diving into the water to catch them. On the East Coast many of the best dive sites are by the river mouths as this attracts a great array of marine animals. Recommended spots include the Van Staden's River mouth and the Gamtoos River mouth. These are both near to Jeffrey’s Bay which is mainly known as one of the world’s best surfing spots for its incredibly long breaks and clean waves. In Port Elizabeth there are some good wrecks including the SS Fidela wreck and the Haerlem wreck. If you are on a diving safari in Durban then you should be aware that high winds and strong showers during the rainy season can have a bad effect on visibility.

Where to Stay on your South Africa Safaris

As an impressively developed and modern country, South Africa can offer an eclectic range of holiday accommodation. There is everything from budget accommodation where you live much as the locals do with outdoor toilets and basic camps, right up to luxury bathrooms and four poster beds. Here’s a look at some of the best places to stay in South Africa.

Right now there are deals for travel to the Zwahili Game Lodge in the Limpopo Province. Located in the Bushveld region around two hours to the north of Johannesburg, this makes an ideal base for a safari. It has award winning facilities including king-sized tents and a spa. An experienced guide will be on hand to take you out in a four by four and point out wondrous wildebeest and other herbivores. There is also a wealth of bird watching opportunities.

If it’s luxury that you want then try the Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge within the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve on the East coast. This has a prime location with views right across the banks of the Great Fish River. The word Kwande means ‘Home of the Blue Crane’ and this eye-catching bird can often be seen first thing in the morning as you relax on the patio with your coffee. The area also has great historical significance having been the scene of various wars between the native inhabitants and European settlers in the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

For a chance to see the ephemeral white lion, stay at the Pumba Water Lodge in the Greater Addo which overlooks a large lake. Your proximity to water will allow a sight of many animals as they come to drink and a number of attractive birds in particular. These thatched cottages have a real air of romance about them, and the outdoor plunge pools give an intimate experience. The reserve offers picnics, star gazing and late night game drives.

Despite being close to the water all of these lodges are considered to be malaria free.

Animals to look out for on South Africa Safaris

South Africa Safari is one of the best places to see the Big Five – buffaloes, leopards, lions, elephants and rhinos. And you can also see intriguing small creatures such as the elephant shrew and the ant lion. The country is one of the last remaining homes of the white rhinoceros and they flourish in the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal as well as the better known Kruger National Park. If you are really lucky you will see one of the fastest animals on earth, the cheetah. South Africa Safari is also excellent for bird watching with hundreds of species including the African Hoopoe.

See the Big Seven in South Africa

While South Africa is famous for the Big Five animals, the country is now promoting itself with mention of the Big Seven. Due to the huge coastline there are also South Africa Safari trips to see aquatic animals and South Africa can boast two of the biggest. Whales and Great White Shark are now being included on the list of big game, presumably so that people do not forget that these are also animals which need to be protected. Mention of the big seven also reminds tourists that they can go out on whale watching tours or see sharks fed from the side of a boat. If they are feeling really adventurous it is even possible to scuba dive inside a shark proof cave for a close up! South Africa is also considered an excellent place for a safari diving holiday.

The Most Popular South Africa Safaris

Given that there are affordable worldwide flights into the main South African cities of Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, South Africa safaris are accessible. South Africa is among the safest places to go on Safari in Africa given that many of the popular game reserves have no risk of malarial infection. With that in mind here are some of the most popular and affordable safaris destinations in South Africa.

1)      The Garden Route Safari

This safari gives you ultimate flexibility on your trip around South Africa and so is ideal for families. An itinerary which gives enough time to see most of what the Garden Route has to offer would be spread over two weeks. Firstly fly into Cape Town, a cosmopolitan city with spectacular views around Table Mountain and amazing surfing. There you can choose a tour operator or rent a car to go at your own pace with the ability to alternate trips to the nature reserves with days out at the glorious beaches nearby. You can also enjoy wonderful wine tasting in the Cape Valley at places such as Franschhoek. The Garden Route offers some of the most scenic driving anywhere in the world.

2)      The Kruger National Park

This is the flagship of the South Africa National Parks (SANParks) association. It has all of the big five animals and the Kruger Park is also a good place to see other large wildlife such as zebras and hippos. The park is close to the southern border of the aptly named Crocodile River. Kruger has a reputation for being well run with all the amenities you could think of. As well as varied accommodation in the form of camps, bush lodges and luxury lodges, there is a super market, post office, gas station and other conveniences. The park receives year around good weather with temperatures staying between 18 and 30 degrees Celsius. It is mostly dry.

3)      The Madikwe National Park

Madikwe is only a short distance from the border with Botswana in the north western province of South Africa. It is a three hour drive from the nearby cities of Pretoria or Johannesburg. The park combines different landscapes with rocky mountainous areas as well as open grassland making it ideal for viewing big game. With the Sun City luxury resort and casino nearby you can even take a half day excursion into Madikwe, though the more time you have available the better the experience. Because the Madikwe area is very dry, instances of malaria are very rare here. Choose from budget and luxury accommodations. 

Respect the Protected Natural Areas on your South Africa Safaris

SANParks deals with the maintenance of South African parks and it is their responsibility to look after the flora and fauna, and educate visitors so that they help to achieve this goal. National parks have made a huge difference to the preservation of wildlife on a South Africa safari, for instance in the case of the endangered white rhino. From a position of near extinction at the beginning of the 20^th century the white rhino was nurtured within South African parks where it began to re-establish its population. Now there are also a number of private parks which are helping to conserve animals in South Africa.

4 Types of South Africa Safaris

Safaris in South Africa are normally split into four different vacation categories, budget/affordable safaris, luxury safaris, family safaris and romantic/honeymoon safaris. Tour operators offer various packages, for instance if you want a romantic safari then a hot air balloon ride might be included on the itinerary.

3 Lesser-Known Family Safari Destinations

1)      South Luangwa National Park in Zambia

The South Luangwa National Park in Zambia allows families to explore African wildlife on foot. A number of Zambia Safari companies run walking tours where you can get to know hundreds of species of animals and birds. There are huge prides of lions, while a large river is home to many hippos. Both should always be seen with an experienced guide for the best photograph opportunities from a safe vantage point.

The game park is ideal for family safari holiday as you can choose from various accommodations to suit your budget. The dry season in Zambia runs between April and October and a visit at the end of September will see the animals heading for the watering-holes.

2)      Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe may be a troubled country but the Hwange National Park certainly rewards the effort. The park serves as an excellent base for trips to the incredible Victoria Falls. Hwange is also one of the best game reserves in Africa as it is home to all the protected species of Zimbabwe. Among more than 100 species of mammal on view you can see some of the world's largest animals including lions, giraffes and elephants. There is also a large colony of the endangered African wild dog.

Families visiting Hwange are spoilt for choice with a number of reasonably-priced accommodations.

3)      The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania

If you want to see where man began then Ngorongoro Conservation area is a perfect place to start. Some of the oldest human remains were found in the Olduvai Gorge. Today Ngorongoro is home to the Masaai tribes people. Families can visit their camps and learn more about the way of life with the help of a guide. The park also contains the world’s largest crater where black rhinoceros live.

See Gorillas and Whales on a Family Safari

Most family safari holidays concentrate on the ‘big five’ animals but if you want to see the real king of the jungle then head to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. This is where the Jane Goodall Institute was set up, as made famous by the film Gorillas in the Mist. It has the largest population of mountain gorillas and was designated as a UNESCO world Heritage site for their protection. There is also the chance of seeing other large primates like chimpanzees. The park is only located a few miles away from the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. This primeval forest is also close to the Great Rift Valley. It is extremely atmospheric having been described as the ‘place of darkness’ by the locals.

Alternatively you can go whale-watching in the Loango National Park in Gabon. As well as access to coast you can see chimpanzees, elephants and other animals in the nearby forests. The trip takes careful planning as there is a scarcity of lodging. But with beaches, forest and savannah all on offer you will not find a more varied and rewarding safari in Africa. It is also the only national park in Africa which protects a lagoon system.

Eat Excellent Food on your African Family Safari

Companies such as specialist operator Bushbaby Travel offer bespoke tours around South Africa which are suitable for young children. Among the conveniences aimed at making your Safari relaxing are personal chefs to prepare all your meals during the trip. That means you can try out exciting local delicacies, or just have a plate of chips whipped up at short notice for hungry kids. Tours cost £1,999 per adult and £1,149 per child.