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Archive for July, 2010

Budget African Safaris – You Can Safari Africa on a Budget!

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

For many travellers the idea of a budget safari in Africa seems like a distant dream rather than an achievable reality, with many assuming that an Africa safari is purely for the lucky few who an afford this experience.

With a bit of insight into finding the best deals however, anyone can afford to enjoy a memorable Africa safari experience across Africa’s top safari destinations, from Botswana to Namibia, Kenya, South Africa and many other popular regions.

Some of the most common myths surrounding African budget safaris include these following misconceptions:

Only the rich can afford to enjoy safaris in Africa

One of the biggest myths about safaris in Africa is that only the rich can afford to try this experience.

While high-end luxury safaris abound, this is only one end of the travel spectrum however, and there are a myriad of safari options to suit all tastes and budgets. Travellers have the option to try overlanding tours, which offer a fun and highly affordable way to see Africa – travelling on an overland truck with like-minded travellers, setting up camp along the way at various game-rich destinations across Africa.

This type of budget safari in Africa is one of the most affordable ways to travel, and also ensures a memorable and exciting trip that gives you a chance to see all the beautiful sights of Africa’s top safari locations without breaking the bank. An Africa safari to suit your pocket!

Budget safaris are limiting and don’t offer as much as luxury safaris
Another common myth is that African budget safaris are limiting, without giving you as many options that a luxury safari may offer.

In reality, budget safaris give you every bit of flexibility as any other tour and Africa safari, especially ones that have been tailor-made to ensure that you get the most bang for your buck. Every top destination in Africa is on offer for budget safaris, from the highly sought-after waterways of the Okavango Delta in Botswana to the towering dunes of Namibia.

Using more simple accommodation and travelling in overland trucks, you will be able to save where it counts, without having to scrimp on the adventure itself.

The game viewing and other attractions on budget safaris are sub-standard
Yet another myth, the truth is that budget safaris offer excellent game viewing, activities and attractions. Often, you may have the chance to experience even more thrills, such as camping just outside a major game park, where you will be as close to the action as it gets – something that the luxury tours can’t always ensure on an Africa safari.

Budget safaris are difficult to find, especially in today’s touch economic climate

With the right travel specialist and a bit of know-how, just about anyone can find their ideal budget safari in Africa. A simple Google search for something such as ‘African budget safaris’ will bring up a range of sites providing safari specials – providing you with plenty of options to choose from.

Alternatively, speaking to an African safari specialist will also help you find the best deals to suit your budget.

Budget safaris are best suited to students or young travellers

Yet another common misconception, many believe that budget safaris and overlanding tours are geared towards students or the younger generation.

While it is true that many young people do enjoy overlanding and affordable safaris, many older travellers have also enjoyed the numerous benefits that African budget safaris provide, making it the perfect option for travellers of all ages.

For all budget African safari trips and information contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com or post your comments below.

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5 Top Destinations for Camping Safaris in Africa

Thursday, July 22nd, 2010

With so many breathtaking destinations to choose from it can be hard to decide which camping safaris to choose.

Africa offers a wealth of exotic, beautiful, fascinating and spectacular destinations across each corner, from west to east – each one with its own unique attractions and highlights.

Depending on your travel requirements and interests, you could try game watching in Etosha, boat cruises along the Okavango Delta, microlight flights over Victoria Falls, see the annual wildebeest migration at Serengeti or explore the spice and other delights of Zanzibar.

Here’s what makes these top five destinations such excellent options for camping safaris in Africa:
Etosha National Park
With about 114 mammal species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and over 340 species of bird, Etosha National Park is one of the top wildlife destinations in Africa. Situated in Namibia, Etosha Park has a range of landscapes, from wetlands to grasslands, all teeming with wildlife.

Camping safaris here give you the chance to camp inside the park, or just outside – ensuring that you are able to wake early to enjoy the excellent game spotting opportunities at dawn. As this part of Namibia may pose a malaria risk, it is always essential to consult your doctor about malaria medication before setting off for an overlanding adventure here.

Okavango Delta
Okavango Delta camping safaris rank as one of the top safari adventures on the planet, boasting all the beauty of the lush Okavango – a sprawling oasis of waterways and rivers situated in the middle of the Kalahari Desert in Botswana.

On a typical safari here, you will be able to explore the delta in a dug out canoe, spotting elephant, antelope, hippo, crocodile and many other creatures – many of which are extremely rare and only found in this habitat. With clear water, and lush vegetation lining the banks, this is one of the most spectacular regions in Africa.

Victoria Falls
Hailed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most famous destinations in Africa, and an absolute must-see on any camping safari in Africa. Bordering both Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls on the planet, thundering into the Zambezi River below with tremendous force.

Here you can enjoy game viewing, bird spotting, adventure sports such as microlight flights and bungee jumping plus a number of other activities to suit all tastes. Many safari companies offer a trip to the falls as an add-on option, as well as a full tour option.

Zanzibar Island
The island of spices evokes thoughts of tropical beaches, spotless white sands, clear water and exotic cultures. Situated off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is one of the most popular destinations in the world, and for good reason. While the island is less about game viewing, and more about beaches, culture, spices and breathtaking views, you will be able to enjoy a host of attractions and activities here, resulting in a memorable safari experience that is quite out of this world.

Serengeti National Park
Situated in Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is one of the largest and most beautiful game reserves in the world. This park is also famous for the annual wildebeest migration, which sees millions of wildebeest cross over the Serengeti into the neighboring Masai-Mara National Park in Kenya.

The sight is one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences on the planet, bringing thousands to the park to witness this event, and enjoy the abundant game and bird life that makes this one of the top destinations for camping safaris in Africa.

Contact OverlandingAfrica.com for all your camping safaris in Africa or post your comments below.

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On a budget? Travel to South Africa and get real bang for your buck!

Thursday, July 15th, 2010

Looking for the perfect tour without breaking the bank?

Budget travel in South Africa offers an excellent safari experience at affordable prices – ensuring a memorable tour in one Africa’s most diverse and interesting countries.

While it may not seem too obvious choice for a safari compared to ‘wilder’ destinations such as Botswana or Namibia, South Africa is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations for safari and game viewing.

With no malaria to worry about, and one of the world’s largest and most famous game reserves at Kruger National Park, South Africa also boasts the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), spectacular bird life, and lush biomes ranging from desert to shrubs and forests – offering an excellent destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy a riveting safari experience in Africa.

Here are some of the biggest advantages to choosing South Africa as your safari destination:
- Easy on your wallet
South Africa budget travel gives you all the benefit of a tourist-friendly economy with competitive prices on all goods – especially basics such as food and supplies. With excellent deals from leading travel agencies in the country, visitors can be sure that they are getting affordable rates on overlanding tours, accommodation, flights and any other travel related expense, and still have spending money that will stretch if spent wisely (this means avoiding the over-priced ‘tourist trap’ goods such as curios!). The Euro, Pound and Dollar are especially strong to the Rand giving visitors from these destinations an even bigger budget advantage. Plus, there are many great specials for off-season travel on offer in South Africa.

- Spectacular wild life and bird life
Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or simply love to enjoy nature, South Africa is sure to provide an amazing experience. With a range of environments to explore, plus hundreds of endemic and migratory bird species, an abundance of game ranging (from small mammals such as the ubiquitous dassie to baboons), all the way up to large predators such as lion, leopard and cheetah, the country has a wide diversity of species across its various regions. Plus, South Africa is also home to the world-renowned Kruger National Park, which is one of the largest reserves in the world. Budget travel in South Africa helps you get the most out of your experience with a number of tour options ranging from short tours to long tours.

- Diverse and colourful cultures and traditions
Another major highlight to enjoy with South Africa budget travel is the diverse culture of its people. South Africa is one of the few countries on earth that has eleven national languages, with each major tribe represented. Although English is widely spoken throughout the country, you may also hear local languages such as Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho and many others during your travels. In addition to this, there are a number of different racial groups, religions and cultures present – creating a melting pot of culture that has its own unique charm. During your tour, you may have the chance to witness traditional dancers, visit a local shabeen, try delicious dishes such as samoosas, boboti, boerewors, rotis, seafood or bunnychow to name but a few, or simply enjoy the warm hospitality and engaging nature of South African locals.

- Wide range of things to see, try and do
Yet another major benefit of South Africa budget travel is the wide number of activities and attractions on offer across the country, all at highly affordable rates. Speak to your travel operator or OverlandingAfrica.com for more information on things do with budget travel in South Africa.

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Top 5 Travel Tips for Egypt

Monday, July 12th, 2010

feetYou can never be too prepared when you travel to a destination very different from your own!

So, we listed a few points that we think are essential for every traveler that visits Egypt.

Money
Small notes (1, 5, 10) are like gold in Egypt! You pretty much tip everyone who looks at you so you will need a good supply of small notes handy. Make sure that you receive the correct notes when you get change back after buying something. Don’t mistake the 50 piastre note (50 Egyptian cents) for the 50 Pound note if a sly trader hands it to you ‘by mistake’.

Water
Avoid tap water (except in bigger, better hotels) and only drink bottled water. Clean your teeth with bottled or boiled water and avoid unpeeled fruits and vegetables (unless you wash it first). The real tip though for water is to remember to take it with you everywhere.

Dress
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, however they are pretty relaxed and accepting of other cultures and religions. I would not recommend hitting the town in hot pants and a boob tube… longer length shorts and shirts are fine.

Shopping
There are plenty of plastic Tutankhamun’s and stuffed camels to buy in Egypt but there is also some good quality items. The ones to look out for are Papyrus, Alabaster/granite, gold and Egyptian cotton. Bartering is expected.

Photos
No matter where you are, or who they are, do not give your camera to someone else to take a photo for you – it could cost you to get it back. Do not take pictures of military/police/official posts – ever! And do not take a picture of a local person without their permission.

You do not need to take any more precautions in Egypt than you would traveling to most Western countries. It’s a different culture, no question there, but that doesn’t make it wrong – just different.

Open your eyes and open your mind and Egypt will find a place in your heart.

For budget trips in Egypt contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com or post your comments below.

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WIN A Trip From Cape Town to Victoria Falls!

Monday, July 12th, 2010

Well, we have threatening to do it for a while and finally we caved into your huge volumes of Facebook comments and emails – and here we have it!

So just what do you have to do to win free trips in Africa and Egypt….? Check out our brand new competition page right here!

Winner!

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Top 5 Red Sea Dive Spots

Saturday, July 10th, 2010

On the eastern edge of the Sahara lies one of the choicest diving spots in the world. Separated from the rest of the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea has been left to develop an exhilarating reef system unparalleled in the region. To top it all off, 30 percent of the marine life here is endemic to the area.

Diving

Check out the top 5 dive spots:
Sharm El Sheikh
The Thistlegorm was a British Merchant Navy ship sunk on 6 October 1941 near Sharm el Sheikh and is now a well known and popular dive site. Combine that with a dive or 2 on the Ras Mohammed reef and you have got some of the best boat diving in Egypt.

Dahab
Numerous options for shore dives combined with warm, clear water make Dahab a popular spot in any dive itinerary. The Blue Hole and the Canyon have to be the top 2 advanced and technical dive sites and The Islands is an awesome dive for all levels of qualification. Boat trips to southern dive sites are becoming more popular.

Sha’ab Abu Nuhâs Reef in the Straits of Gobal
This great reef is also known as the “ships graveyard”. Numerous wrecks are within 40m of the surface and the top 3 have to be the Carnatic, Ghannis D, and Chrisoula K. These wrecks are spectacular and make fantastic material for the underwater photographer. Liveaboards out of Hurghada will get you there.

Hurghada
The Giftun Islands has been a marine reserve for a few years now and this has to be one of the best boat dives in the Hurghada area.  Explore picturesque coral formations sticking out from the main reef wall decorated with soft corals. Good drift diving abounds.

Marsa Alam
A relatively new dive spot, the dives and bays around Marsa Alam are home to excellent corals, large turtles, Guitar sharks and occasionally pods of dolphins. The coral reefs along the Marsa Alam coast are a real treasure trove for any diver. Well worth the extra effort needed to get there.

For information about budget trips to Egypt contact OverlandingAfrica.com or post your comments below.

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Egypt – More Than Mummies and Pyramids

Friday, July 9th, 2010

Step Pyramid DjoserSo you are heading off to Egypt and your itinerary covers all the main highlights this amazing country offers.  Now what?

There is much more to this vibrant place than the Pyramids and the Valley of the Kings!

Here are few ideas to keep you occupied:
Beaches
Whether you make your destination the Gulf of Suez, near Cairo, or the more well known Red Sea, you’ll find balmy weather and everything from backpacker hotels to exclusive resorts. Warm, clear water, vibrantly colored fish, diving, snorkeling, wind surfing and relaxing.

Fishing
From Tilapia to big Catfish to Nile perch, you can find the catch of a lifetime in Egypt. Lake Nassar, the largest man-made lake in Egypt, stretches over 300 miles and promises a great catch for even the most inexperienced angler.

Scuba Diving
Diving is a year round sport in Egypt and there are many under water treasures to explore. Beginner or novice divers should stick to Dahab and Sharm el-Sheik where both equipment and instruction can be found.

Desert Safaris
These guided tours will take you to the Egyptian oases and to the great temples of the ancient gods and the tombs of kings. You can see breathtaking vistas and learn more about Egypt than you could ever do from a book, as guides take you through the other less-well-known pyramids and the famous Black Desert.

Golfing
Dream Golf is a course located on the outskirts of Cairo. The 7200 yard course, covered in well-tended grass, is one of the largest in Egypt.

Shopping
Khan e-Khalili bazaar in Cairo is Egypt’s oldest market. Goods from all over the world come to the Khan, and you can find everything in jewelry, leather, pewter, wood and clothing that you can imagine. If you are skilled in haggling, you can come away with terrific bargains!

For trips covering Egypt and the Middle East contact OverlandingAfrica.com or make your comments below.

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Bring the Kids! – Family Safaris and Holidays in Africa

Thursday, July 8th, 2010

For parents looking for the ultimate holiday experience, an Africa family safari offers one of the most rewarding experiences for children of all ages to enjoy – combining all the fun of a safari in Africa with child-friendly activities and plenty of learning opportunities. With a number of affordable family safaris on offer, it has never been easier to enjoy a wildlife and nature experience in one of Africa’s top safari destinations.

Some of the biggest benefits to family holidays in Africa include the following:
1.    Fun for the whole family
All too often children get bored on adult-tailored safaris. With many activities that are more targeted to grown ups the younger generation are left to try and enjoy the same activities, or settle for a play area at camp, with not very many activities specifically tailored for children to enjoy. Family holidays in Africa meanwhile are designed to ensure that children and adults both get the most out of the safari with plenty of attractions for children of all ages to enjoy.

2.    Learning experiences abound
From the abundance of wildlife and bird life to be seen on a typical African safari, to the various landscapes and environments to be seen, Africa offers plenty of learning experiences for parents to share with their children. A wide range of interesting subjects can be explored on an informal basis, helping children learn more about the animals, birds, plants, history, culture and people of Africa – without ever having to open a book! Learning as a family is one of the best ways to learn and on a typical Africa family safari children will be able to discover a whole world of wonder on every game drive, day trip or walk.

3.    Experience all the thrills of a safari in Africa
Enjoying thrilling experiences as a family is excellent for bonding – giving plenty of memories that will last a lifetime. Some of the most popular family holidays in Africa include tours to top destinations such as Namibia (home to towering dunes, vast landscapes of contrast, game-rich regions and many exciting activities), Zambia (where the magnificent Victoria Falls can be seen, and plenty of adventure sports from white river rafting to micro-light flights can be enjoyed), Botswana (excellent game viewing, river cruises, bushman tracking adventures and plenty of other activities on offer) and South Africa (Kruger National Park, beaches, activities and many other attractions) to name but a few – each offering a myriad of things to see, do and experience within Africa.

4.    Cost effective safari for the whole family
Family safaris are one of the most affordable safari options especially those that stick to the basics. Camping safaris and overland tours give the best value for money as these types of safaris use standard accommodation and often camping rather than luxury accommodation at lodges that cost the earth. Many activities are included in the tour cost which means that there are very little additional costs.

With so many benefits on offer and so much fun and learning to be enjoyed it is no wonder that Africa family safari tours are such a popular choice for families seeking affordable holidays in Africa.

For all Family Safaris and Holidays in Africa contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com or post your comments below.

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OverlandingAfrica launches hot ‘Overland In My Shoes’ Facebook App!

Wednesday, July 7th, 2010

The IT geeks here at OverlandingAfrica are a-flippin-mazing!

We didn’t want our travellers to waste valuable overland trip time sitting in front of a computer – so we invented a nice, easy Facebook application to update your wall for you automatically!

A short update posted on your ‘Wall’ tells your Facebook friends where you are and what you are seeing today – so they can share your Overland experience with you and literally ‘Overland In My Shoes’!

I hope it doesn’t make them too jealous!

Check it out!

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5 Tips for Choosing a Discounted African Safari

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

For many travellers finding discounted African safari packages may well be the only way for them to experience the wonders of safari in Africa.

With the recession still fresh in many consumers’ minds, and constant price hikes, travel is sometimes classed as a ‘luxury’, and many simply do not feel able to afford a travel experience such as a safari – especially students, singles or other budget conscious travellers.

With a bit of know-how however, and a few good tips on how to find affordable safaris in Africa, anyone can experience the thrills, adventure and spectacular wildlife of a safari in some of Africa’s top regions.

Try these tips to learn more about how you can make your African safari dream into a reality:
1.    Consider overland tours rather than luxury tours
Overland tours offer one of the most affordable safari options allowing you to save on expenses such as luxury lodges and added frills. Travelling by overlanding trucks, most overland experiences offer camping accommodation or very basic accommodation rather than high-end accommodation. With a range of tour duration options, from short trips to intensive Trans Africa tours that take you from Cape to Cairo, there is something to suit all tastes ensuring a highly memorable and affordable way to enjoy a safari in Africa.

2.    Don’t take chances with unknown tour operators
While it may be tempting to try a small, fly by night travel agency, this may end up costing you far more in the long run. Many unsuspecting travellers have been lured by the thought of a good deal only to find themselves stranded at the airport with no tickets, no money and no way of finding the agent that sold them a fake discounted African safari package. Only registered, licensed and reputable tour agencies should ever be consulted, and if you are unsure, rather listen to your instincts and try a good agency instead. Do your homework online, check testimonials and don’t ever part with your money until you are certain that they are not trying to scam you.

3.    Speak to a tour agency to learn about seasonal specials
Once you have found a registered and good tour agency, find out if they are running any seasonal specials. High season for overland tours can be more expensive; while low season may often have cheaper prices all round. Tour operators can advise you on the best options to suit your budget and can also recommend travel packages that may appeal to you, to help you find a tour that is good for the pocket as well as meeting your requirements.

4.    Choose your tour destination carefully
You may want to visit all of Africa’s top safari destinations, from South Africa to Namibia, Kenya, Botswana or Mozambique, however realistically speaking it makes more financial sense to choose one country for a shorter tour. Countries such as Botswana or Namibia offer a wide diversity of wildlife and birdlife, with different landscapes found across each region. You will be able to get all the benefits of a full safari, with the added advantage of a more affordable overland tour as you are staying within one area.

5.    Consider a short tour
You can save a huge deal by opting for a short tour of a week or 10 days rather than a full blown tour. This will allow you to enjoy game viewing, bird watching and many other activities, without forking out thousands for a long safari. This is one of the simplest ways to enjoy discounted African safaris.

For Africa Overland Trips and discounted African safari packages contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com.

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