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Archive for June, 2010

Is There Such A Thing As A Cheap African Safari?

Thursday, June 24th, 2010

As one of the most popular destinations in the world, finding cheap safari in Africa may seem challenging.

There are many myths surrounding travel in Africa, and safaris in particular are often assumed to be solely for the rich to enjoy. Knowing what to look for, and knowing where to find the best deals is essential to get all the benefits of an affordable safari in Africa – debunking common safari myths and making it possible for anyone to experience the wonders of safari in one of the world’s most fascinating and beautiful continents.

The most common myths regarding safaris in Africa include the following:

Myth 1: you need to be rich to experience a safari
While obviously there is a huge demand for high-level luxury safaris, these are just one end of the travel spectrum, and with so many different options to choose from just about anyone and everyone can enjoy a safari.

One of the most popular ways to find cheap African safari specials is through overlanding companies. Overlanding is fast becoming a hugely accessible and affordable way to travel, allowing travellers to skip on the luxuries and opt for a more ‘real’ travel experience. Overland vehicles are used, and guests camp overnight, helping with basic duties such as cooking or chores and staying at simple guest houses where no camping is available. Aside from being one of the cheapest ways to enjoy safaris across Africa’s top destinations, from Botswana to Kenya, Namibia, Uganda and many others, this option also offers a memorable and interactive way to travel, making it perfect for cash-strapped students, honeymooners, retired couples or single travellers wanting to travel on a tight budget.

Myth 2: only obscure destinations are possible on a tight budget
Some travellers may fear that a lack of budget will result in only being able to visit some of the lesser-known destinations, or that they will not be able to get the ‘full’ experience or see wildlife without having to spend a lot. While some tour companies may offer discounted safari packages that are less than rewarding, a good company will be able to offer specials for cheap safari in Africa that allow you to see everything that you want to see, while cutting costs by using camping accommodation and other discounted travel options. This way you can see elephant in Botswana or the Big 5 in South Africa, without having to worry about being able to afford the experience.

Myth 3: Africa is very expensive to visit
Sure it may not be quite as cheap as many believe but if you plan ahead and budget carefully Africa is not as expensive as some other destinations. In terms of safaris, staying at campsites or bed and breakfast accommodation, or being on an overland tour for instance, you will save a huge deal on costs, and more often than not, meals are included in overland tours – leaving only the extra costs to consider such as personal items, drinks or gifts. Plan carefully and choose wisely – tours that offer accommodation outside of game parks are cheaper and basic food is always cheaper while luxuries are obviously more of an added cost. Learn to bargain at markets, and always shop around until you find a cheap African safari tour that offers the most value.
Remember that different seasons bring different costs. When planning your dream safari, first work out how much your budget allows you to spend. Then decide the length of your safari – a shorter trip will give you the chance to still enjoy your cheap safari in Africa while keeping costs down.

For all Africa Overland tours and information contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com

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Posted in Specials and Discounts | 2 Comments »

See It All On An Egypt Overland Tour – Even On A Tight Travel Budget!

Thursday, June 17th, 2010

Egypt Budget TravelNothing brings to mind exotic mystery more than an Egypt overland tour, with images of pyramids, camels, palm trees, endless deserts, and one of the world’s most ancient cultures throughout the history of man.

For many adventure-seekers, a Cape to Cairo tour offers infinite allure and day dreams of distant lands and desert adventures, but the thought of the cost is enough to put off even the most intrepid of travellers. With overland tours however, travel to Egypt is made possible – regardless of your budget.

One of the best ways to experience Egypt and the allure of North Africa is through Egypt budget travel which takes you across the key landmarks of Egypt as well as its surrounding countries. This gives you a holistic travel experience that far surpasses any dedicated tour to just one destination, allowing you the trip of a lifetime as you set off to explore the wonders of the northern tip of Africa by overland truck.

Egypt overland travel could include the following:

- Cape Town to Cairo Nile Trans
As one of the most ancient and well-travelled overland routes in the world, the Cape to Cairo overland trip brings to mind all the excitement of travelling across the African continent in search of adventure, memories and all the wonders offered by each destination you pass.

Beginning in the beautiful Cape you will travel across Africa – through countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Ethiopia and many others – before getting to the breathtaking attractions of Egypt. Here you will see the legendary Pyramids of Giza, take in the vibrant streets of Cairo, see the world-famous Nile River and many other landmarks. This is Egypt overland at its finest, with the additional benefit of a coast to coast journey across Africa.

- The Roof of Africa Trip
For those who would prefer to focus their attention on the northern most tip of Africa, the Roof of Africa experience gives the opportunity to discover the many wonders of the top of Africa. From the pyramids, deserts and landmarks of Egypt, to the ancient ruins of Libya and the desert wonders of Tunisia, you will be able to see some of the most famous and renowned sites within North Africa on this Egypt budget travel experience.

In three weeks, you can learn about the fascinating history of North Africa, and find out about the ancient cultures and influences that have made this region one of the most fascinating destinations in the world.

- Trans Africa Trip
If you are up for a major challenge and want to experience one of the most rewarding and memorable overland tours imaginable then the Trans Africa trip is one of the best ways to experience Egypt (as well as many other countless destinations and attractions across Africa) over a grueling yet highly unforgettable 40 week adventure. Egypt overland tours simply do not come more epic than this one and for those who are tough enough to brave the deserts, heat and challenges that lie in wait, this tour is a must.

However you choose to experience the wonders of Egypt, overland tours offer the most affordable and fun way to explore this fascinating country and its surrounding destinations, putting you right into all the action and ensuring that your Egypt overland adventure is truly unforgettable.

** (Most of these trips also run in the opposite direction if that works better for your flights!)

For the best overland trips in and around Egypt contact the experts at OverlandingAfrica.com!

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Posted in North Africa | No Comments »

Yellow Fever Vaccination and Certificate – Do I Need It In Africa?

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

yellow fever smlYellow Fever is a viral disease transmitted to humans via the bite of infected mosquitoes – much like malaria.

Unlike malaria, which is often talked and written about, a lot of travellers aren’t sure if they require a vaccination against Yellow Fever or what they need a certificate for. The last thing you want is to get halfway across Africa only to find that the next country on your trip won’t let you in – all because of a little piece of paper.

Yellow Fever Facts
- Although an effective vaccine has been available for 60 years, the number of people infected over the last two decades has increased and yellow fever is now a serious public health issue again.
- Thirty-three countries, with a combined population of 508 million, are at risk in Africa.
- Yellow Fever is a virus belonging to the ‘flavivirus group’ and humans and monkeys are the principal animals to be infected.
- The virus is carried by a biting mosquito which can also pass the virus via infected eggs to its offspring.
- Yellow fever is difficult to recognize, especially during the early stages however blood tests can detect yellow fever antibodies that are produced in response to the infection.
- There is no cure for yellow fever. Treatment is symptomatic, aimed at reducing the symptoms for the comfort of the patient.
- Vaccination is the single most important preventive measure against yellow fever. The vaccine is safe, affordable and highly effective, and provides effective immunity within one week for 95% of persons vaccinated. (Ref: World Health Organisation 2009)

Do I Need a Yellow Fever Vaccination and Certificate to travel in Africa?
Yes… depending on where you want to go.

If you are travelling to a Yellow Fever endemic area (see map) then it is strongly recommended that you are vaccinated against Yellow Fever.

If you are travelling from a Yellow Fever endemic area (anywhere in the world) then you WILL be required to produce your official, stamped vaccination certificate on arrival in many parts of Africa where Yellow Fever is not prevalent.

Check out the full Yellow Fever story at Overlanding Africa.com or post your comments below.

Additional information you may find useful:

Travel Documents for Africa

Latest Yellow Fever Vaccination Recommendations

Africa Budget Safaris – Essential Travel Checklist

You Ought To Know Before You Go!

Medical Tourism India

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Posted in Africa, News Flash | 1 Comment »

Top 6 Morocco Adventure Activities

Thursday, June 10th, 2010

camel treksmlAfter the kasbahs and sightseeing, there are still plenty of activities to keep the adventurous busy while the rest of us laze on the beach!

Check out the top 6!

Surfing and Kiteboarding
Year round consistent wind make Essaouria and Agadir popular water sport destinations. These seaside towns are a 2 to 3 hour bus ride from Marrakesh.  Rent equipment and lessons by the hour, day or week.

Desert Motorbiking
For a great open road experience try biking in the Sahara desert and Atlas Mountain area. Most tours or motorbike rental operations are based in Ouarzazate and offer tours for everyone, novice to expert. You can fly into town from Casablanca or get a taxi from Marrakesh.

Mountain Biking
The Anti Atlas Mountains in Morocco’s South West is the perfect location to get off-road and mix it up. Rent a bike in Fes for around 20 Euro per day.

Rock Climbing
Cliffs up to 1000 ft suitable for climbing can be found in Morocco. Todra Gorge and Tafouroute are a 5-8 hour drive from Marrakesh. Climbers need to come fully equipped since no local rentals are available.

Camel Trekking
Erg Chebbi dune field near Merzouga is only 50km south east of Erfoud and has the highest and most spectacular sand dunes in Morocco. Catch a Supratours bus (next to the Marrakech Train Station) with your final destination being Erfoud, Rissani or Merzouga. Once there, see any hotel – they can book the trek for you.

Hiking Jebel Toubkal
Only 65 km from Marrakesh is Morocco’s highest peak. A two day trek will take you to the 4167 m summit of Mount Toubkal. It is not an extremely difficult hike but can be cold in the winter.

For Morocco overland trips and Morocco budget travel contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com or leave your comments below.

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Posted in West Africa, Whats Hot! | No Comments »

Africa is in Reach, Even on a Tight Travel Budget

Thursday, June 10th, 2010

Many travellers believe that safaris are reserved for those who can afford to travel in luxury, however with some Africa travel budget planning anyone can experience the wonders of an African safari, regardless of their income or budget.

Budget travel is the best way to ensure you get all the benefits of travelling to one of the world’s top destinations, while keeping to the basics and choosing budget-friendly ways to travel. While luxury travel obviously has its own perks, one doesn’t always have to go first class to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime, and with a bit of know-how you too can enjoy the safari in Africa that you have always dreamed about.

When planning your budget travel in Africa, remember to keep the following factors in mind:

1. Planning is everything
The first thing you will need to do is work out your Africa travel budget. Decide how much you can afford to spend on your safari, and remember to include spending money, travel costs, safaris costs and any other costs you may need to consider. Be realistic, and rather over calculate than under calculate. Once you have worked out more or less how much you can spend, you can start looking around for a safari that works within your budget.

2. Choose the most affordable means of travel
When searching for budget tours give the luxury accommodated tours a miss and focus on the overland tours, camping tours and other budget type tours. Budget travel in Africa often means shared lodging, tents, larger groups, overland trucks and less frills – but in the end you not only save a bundle on your safari, you also have the chance to experience Africa in all its rough and tough glory. A bona fide adventure that you will remember for many years to come.

3. Remember that Africa is not always cheap
Much as you may think otherwise, Africa is not always cheap. Many destinations across Africa are very much used to tourists and cater to make the most of the business that tourism brings in. In addition to this the currencies of many African countries vary greatly meaning that you may end up paying a lot more for simple things. Be careful of over-spending and try to resist the urge to stock up on curios that you won’t ever need. Learn to negotiate at the markets and don’t let sneaky sellers try and over-charge you.  Stick to your Africa travel budget, and keep a record of what you spend each day.

4. Choose your destinations wisely
While it is tempting to go flat out and go for the 40 week Trans Africa tour, (it doesn’t cost quite as much as you thought it might), remember that the long tours that visit many different destinations are the most expensive ones. The tour itself may not cost the earth, but in each destination you will also need to factor in living costs and other costs that you may not have budgeted for. Spending weeks and weeks travelling through Africa will not come cheap. A couple of weeks may end up being a lot more affordable, ensuring a more relaxing and fuss-free safari that you will be able to plan easily for, without breaking the bank.

Planning your trip to Africa may seem daunting to us with limited funds but with a little bit of thought and careful consideration you can work out an Africa travel budget for your dream safari.

For dozens of trips to suit your budget contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com

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10 Morocco Facts the Guidebook Didn’t Tell You!

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010

marrakechI love quirky little facts about places! Here are the top 10 Morocco facts that you might not find in a guidebook!

The Hassan II Mosque
The prayer hall can fit in a congregation of 25,000 and its esplanade 80,000. Its 200m high minaret makes it the highest religious building in the world.

Sidi Bou Abderrahmane Mausoleum
It is accessible at low tide only, perched on a rock surrounded by the ocean at the end of the coast road.

Greyhound Racing
Casablanca can boast that it possesses the only greyhound track in Africa. Irish bred greyhounds race there regularly.

Art Work
Take a look at all of the mosaic tile artwork on the walls. It is rumored that each mosaic has at least one cracked/flawed tile in it as Islamic Moroccan people believe that only Allah can create something that is ‘perfect’.

Goats Can Climb Trees
In south-west Morocco, you can frequently find goats climbing trees – an unusual photo opportunity! The goats eat the fruit from the Argan tree.

You Can Ski
Between January and February you can ski or snowboard in Oukaimeden up in the High Atlas Mountains.

‘The Gladiator’ and ‘Sex and the City 2′ Was Shot Here
Walk in the footsteps of Angelina, Colin Farrell, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sarah Jessica Parker and many more Hollywood stars who have filmed in Morocco. You can even take a guided tour of the film studios at Ouarzazate.

Take a Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class at La Maison Arabe
Moroccan food is one of the most recognisable flavours in the world.  Few other countries have national dishes so evocative of the country itself, and your cookery courses take place at one of the finest schools in Morocco.

Shopping
The Djemaa El Fna market place and square is the heart and soul of the shopping and dining scene in Marrakech. At the square you’ll find the famed snake-charmers, Chleuh dancing-boys, story-tellers and magicians.

Bahia Palace and the Dar El Said
The city is home to Morocco’s finest palaces (including the Bahia Palace and the Dar El Said), both of which are now museums.

For Morocco overland tours and other overland travel in Africa contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com.

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Posted in Just For Fun!, West Africa | 1 Comment »

Budget Travel in Morocco – Overland Style!

Thursday, June 3rd, 2010

If exotic deserts, fascinating culture and ancients ruins is your idea of the perfect travel experience, Morocco overland adventures may be just what you are looking for.

Morocco is one of Africa’s most mysterious and interesting destinations, bringing to mind all the old world glamour and mystical charm of Casablanca and Rick’s American Cafe. For travellers on a budget, overland tours offer the best way to experience this country’s wide range of attractions at affordable prices.

Situated in North Africa, Morocco is just a boat trip away from both the Middle East and Spain. Famous for its romantic and rather mysterious city of Casablanca, the country offers a heady mixture of exotic markets, fascinating Arabic culture, delicious cuisine and ancient Roman ruins – not to mention beautiful desert and mountain landscapes.

Morocco budget travel is unlike anything you have experienced and a visit to this country gives you the chance to learn more about some of the top attractions and landmarks that can be found here.

Morocco Budget TravelTop destinations that you can visit on a Morocco overland tour include the following:

- Tangier
Tangier is a beautiful and fascinating city that is a vivid mix of Africa, Spain, and France. As the northern most city of Morocco this is a popular port for travel between Africa and Spain and has a distinct Mediterranean vibe, alongside the mysterious allure of exotic Morocco. Vibrant markets, ancient cultures, heady aromas and mystery, unspoiled beaches and friendly people go hand in hand with a fascinating history, making this a highly rewarding stop on any overland tour. Key highlights in Tangier include the Kasbah, the tomb of Ibn Battouta, Teatro Cervantes, the Tangier American Legation Museum, Musée d’Art Contemporain de la Ville de Tanger and the Ave Mohamed VI beach.

- Fez
Fez (also called Fès in the native French) is an ancient walled city, one of the only medieval cities in Africa. This is a highly important stop on any Morocco budget travel adventure, offering a riveting glimpse into an ancient culture, with incredible artefacts and strong sense of history. Highlights include the Bou Inania madersa, which is a breathtaking 14th-century religious college; the Borj Nord fortress for its amazing armaments; Merenid Tombs for the panoramic views over the medina and city; the Moulay Idriss II shrine, the tomb of Fez’s founder; the Qaraouyine library and mosque and the al-Tijani mosque to name but a few.

- Todra Gorge
Morocco’s version of the Grand Canyon is a must-see on any Morocco overland tour. The canyon is situated on the remote east side of the High Atlas Mountains and is a popular hiking spot with a well-maintained dirt road to walk along. The views and scenery here are incredible with excellent photographic opportunities as you take in the towering mountains which change colour as the sun moves across the gorge.

- Marrakech
One of the better-known towns of Morocco, Marrakech is divided into two parts: the Medina (the historical city) and the new European modern district called Gueliz or Ville Nouvelle. The Medina has a blend of ancient markets and culture, with old architecture to be found, while the new district has modern shops and fast-food chains, with a more European feel. There are plenty of markets (souks) and attractions to explore, especially in the Medina – with historical sites and plenty more on offer during your Morocco overland tour in this city.

For Morocco Overland Trips and information contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com

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