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Unforgettable Self-drive Safari in Tanzania

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Explore the United Republic of Tanzania in your comfort and at your pace during your self-guided road trip in the country’s tourist destinations. Positioned in the eastern sub-region of the African continent, Tanzania is among the countries on the continent that provide a unique experience that is beyond the traveller’s expectations. The country is within the African Great Lakes region bordered by Uganda to the north, Kenya to the northeast, Comoro Islands and Indian Ocean to the east, Mozambique and Malawi to the south, Zambia to the southwest and Rwanda, Burundi and Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.

With an area of approximately 947,303 square kilometers, Tanzania encompasses various amazing tourist attractions including the highest mountain on the African continent – Mount Kilimanjaro in the northeastern region and the oldest inhabited areas in the world including Olduvai Gorge where the oldest fossils that range between 4 and 2 million years ago were found. The country is known for its rich cultural in different ethnic groups of over 120 in number. Each ethnic group in the country has its own language though have Swahili as the national language.

Tanzania is known as one of the best countries for tourism purposes worldwide comprising of 17 national parks, 40 reserves and several marine parks. Among the national parks include Serengeti national park which is famous for the annual Great migration which involves the flock of over million wildebeests, thousands of zebras, gazelles and elands. These animals can be easily seen when crossing Mara River to Masai Mara national park of Kenya. Other parks include Kilimanjaro national park, Mahale mountains national park, Tarangire national park, Lake Manyara national park and many others. For one to enjoy these destinations during the self-guided road trip, different tour packages are designed to help in proper planning. Among the tour packages include;

4 days self-drive safari in Tanzania

Tour review

The 4 days self-drive road trip in Tanzania is a great opportunity to a traveler to visit the three of the main national parks in the country. Among the destinations to visit include Ngorongoro conservation area which is famous for the black rhinos, Cape buffaloes, hippos, blue wildebeests, waterbucks, African leopards, topis and many others. From the conservation area, you will proceed to Tarangire national park which is one of the largest national parks in the country. This park is famous for African elephants, waterbucks, wildebeests, giraffes and others. Also, you will have a transfer to Lake Manyara national park which is famous for the tree climbing lions in the baobab trees.

Tour highlights

Day 1: Transfer to Tarangire national park

Day 2: Transfer to Lake Manyara national park

Day 3: Transfer to Ngorongoro crater

Day 4: Cultural tour and transfer to back to Arusha

Detailed 4 days self-drive road trip

Day 1: Transfer to Tarangire national park

In the morning, you will be welcomed by the company representative who will brief you about the safari and all the terms and conditions of the vehicle. From there, transfer to Tarangire national park where you will arrive in the afternoon. Tarangire national park is known for diverse landscape with more than 9 vegetation zones which are covered by the ancient Baobab trees. The park was named after River Tarangire that attracts abundance wildlife species including elephants, leopards, lions, buffalos, antelopes, zebras and many others. On your arrival at the lodge, have delicious lunch and go for your game viewing experience in the tracks where you will spot various wildlife species. After, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight

Accommodation

Chem Chem lodge, Kuro Tarangire lodge, Kirurumu Tarangire lodge

Day 2: Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park

Wake up for your early morning breakfast at the camp/lodge as you plan to transfer to Lake Manyara national park. Lake Manyara national park is preeminent for its unique beauty with acacia forest of the giant fig and mahogany trees. These trees house a wide range of primates including the baboons and the blue monkeys. Also, Lake Manyara national park is famous for the tree climbing lions and the flamingos along the lake shores. Other wildlife in the park includes the giraffes, elephants, impalas, and many others. All these species and many others will be spotted during the game viewing exercise in a game drive as you will be driving through the park tracks and plains. From the game drive, return to the lodge or camp for your dinner and overnight

Accommodation

Lake Manyara tree hotel, Kirurumu tented lodge, Olmasera tented camp

Day 3: Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater

Wake up early to catch the beautiful sunrise in the wild as you prepare for a transfer to Ngorongoro crater. Ngorongoro crater is made up of walls which are about 2,000ft high. It is a home to several animal species as well as bird species which can be seen around the water sources in the area. Among the animals inhabited include the rare black rhinos, elephants, hippos, and many others. During the game drive in the crater, you have a picnic lunch at Hippo Lake and later in the evening, drive back to the lodge or camp for dinner and overnight

Accommodation

Neptune Ngorongoro lodge, Ngorongoro wildlife lodge and Plantation lodge

Day 4: Have a cultural tour at Oldonyo Sambu Maasai Village

In the early morning, enjoy your breakfast and prepare for a village visit by the lead of the Masai Chief. The chief will take you around the village as you see how these cultural people live, how they cook, study, dance and others. You will also be entertained by the village women through dances and songs as you capture photos and record videos for remembrance. From the village walk, transfer to Arusha town for your flight back home or overnight in any hotel of your choice.

Tour inclusions

  • Professional tour guide ( optional)
  • 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Full board accommodation
  • All activities in the travel plan
  • Park entrance fees
  • Drinking water
  • Airport transfer

10 Magical Things to See in East Africa

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East African region is made up of 5 countries which include Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. Destination east Africa tourism is heating up as travelers want to experience diverse wildlife such as gorillas and big five mammals, cultures and beautiful landscapes. East Africa truly provides natural wonders to discover and explore on a safari, we have selected the best 10 thing to do.

When planning to visit more than 2 of the East Africa destinations, consider getting the single east Africa tourist visa. This visa is a joint tourism marketing campaign of Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda. The visa cost is $100 US and allows free entry and exit into the three mentioned countries. This visa does not allow entry into Tanzania as it is not part of the joint marketing effort.

Mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda

Mountain gorillas live only in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo and nowhere else in the world. Gorillas are world’s largest primates, with a mature male gorilla called silverback weighing up to 220 kg. Getting close to a silver back is one of the most exciting wildlife encounters. You can only access gorillas by hiking on foot through very thick forests. Visitors are usually allowed to spend 1 hour or 4 hours taking photos and observing their features and behaviors such as feeding and grooming. Both Uganda and Rwanda provide perfect gorilla trekkking safaris even though there are differences in the price of a gorilla permit.

Uganda is desirable because it is home to half of the world’s gorilla population with 17 habituated gorilla families available in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and the cost of a gorilla tracking permit is affordable at #600. But the most impressive thing about Rwanda is the short distance (2 hours drive) from Kigali airport to volcanoes national park.

Great wildebeest migration Kenya and Tanzania

Each year, 2 million Wildebeests including zebra, Thomson’s gazelle, topi, migrate to and from Masai Mara reserve in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania. There has never been such a spectacle of wildlife elsewhere in the world; it is a natural world wonder to witness. During December to February, wildebeest in eastern Serengeti give birth. A calf is born and within 5 minutes it is able to run miles following its mother, a wild animal behavior seen nowhere else in the world. Game drive safaris follow the wildebeest migration in every corner and some camps are positioned better in areas where the animals cross such as along the Mara River. However, the timing is always different, so it is better to arrange a safari with expert tour operators. Most of the wildebeest viewing is full day but some safari packages can be tailor made for different locations both in Masai-Mara and Serengeti.

Golden monkeys

Golden monkeys are unique primates endemic to Virunga Mountains, a chain of 8 volcanic mountains that stretch across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Mgahinga gorilla national park Uganda and volcanoes national park Rwanda are the only parks where golden monkeys have been habituated for tourists to visit. Golden monkey treks are done in Mgahinga or volcanoes national park and are convenient for those who are on a gorilla safari. The cost is easy at $80 US.

Murchison waterfalls

Found inside Murchison falls national park in Uganda, Murchison is the world’s strongest waterfall. It is created by river Nile as it squeezes through a narrow gorge and falls off 45 meters cliff to form what is known as a devil’s cauldron. A hike to the top of the falls on a cliff offers impressive view of the falls and the Nile. Although the waterfall is spectacular, it is not the only reward. Visitors who undertake boat cruises on the Nile can spot hippos, Nile crocodiles, and birds while game drives around Nile-Delta swamp reward to wildlife viewing including elephants, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, lion, leopard, hyena, Uganda kob, patas monkeys, warthogs and Jackson’s hartebeest.

Source of the Nile Jinja

Jinja city found in eastern Uganda is the source of River Nile. Being the longest river on earth as well as few of the northward flowing rivers, the Nile waters in Jinja offer the best white water rafting and kayaking places in the world. Averagely the flow of Nile water in Jinja is said to between 1000- 1500 cubic meters per second, which means it has huge and grade 5 and 3 rapids. After rafting or kayaking, Jinja city is worth to explore. Other activities include boat rides, horseback riding, cycling. It is also home to the Nile brewery, manufactures of beers like club, Nile special, castle rite. Jinja is also located very close to Mount Elgon national park, the world’s largest caldera and home to wildlife such as elephants, zebras and birds.

Big five mammals

Big five African mammals include the elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. For visitors looking to spot all the big 5 in just a day and in big numbers the best places to go to are Ngongoro conservation area, Serengeti and Masai mara. Encounters with big five mammals are done by going on a guided game drives with a ranger which sometimes require full day spent out in the wilderness.

Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees are closely related to humans and share around 98.7% of their DNA with man. The largest population of chimps is found in Uganda’s kibale forest national park. In addition to kibale, Uganda has other 3 places to see chimps in the wild including Budongo forest in Murchison falls, Kyambura gorge and Kalinzu forest reserve in Queen Elizabeth national park. Chimpanzee treks in Uganda are almost done in the midst of big game parks which means you can do chimps in the morning and then embark on game drives in the evening. In Rwanda chimpanzee can also be seen in Nyungwe forest national park which is about 7-8 hours drive Kigali. In Tanzania in chimps are found in Gombe stream national park where the Jane Godell institute. However, this park is only accessible by a boat cruise.

Zanzibar islands

Zanzibar islands are found in Tanzania along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Zanzibar has some of the beautiful beaches but is it celebrated for its ancient and culture. historical and heritage sites such as palace museum, stone town, prison island, Forodhani market, old fort offer insight into the slave trade and modern mixture of Swahili, Arab and Indian kuli culture. that comes with food and various dishes, such as sea food, Swahili cuisine, Indian fusion at restaurants and cafes.

Canopy walks Nyungwe forest national park Rwanda

The largest canopy bridge walks in east Africa are found in Nyungwe forest national park- southwestern Rwanda. Nyungwe is an ancient forest offering hiking opportunities to see chimpanzee, colobus monkey, waterfalls, birds and butterflies. For visitors just seeking breathtaking jungle views the canopy walks are the best in the whole of east Africa. On the canopy walks, visitors can see wildlife in the tree canopies.

Exploring Uganda: 5 Adventures Not to Miss

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Uganda is located across the equator with warm tropical climate that is favorable throughout the year. Due to this geographic position, Uganda has diverse ecosystems such as tropical rain forest, savannah, wetlands, lakes and rivers, volcanoes, snow capped Rwenzori mountains and contain incredible diversity especially for half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Uganda has slowly emerged as one of the exciting adventure tourist destinations especially for gorilla safaris and other adventures.  When you visit Uganda, you probably not miss these 5 adventures we have put together

Tracking mountain gorillas

Mountain gorillas are rare and critically endangered apes. There are about 1000 individual thriving in the wild and a chance to see gorillas in their natural habitat is a life changing wildlife experience. Uganda benefits from being home the half of the gorilla numbers which are found in the UNESCO natural heritage site Bwindi impenetrable forest national park.  Bwindi has several gorilla tracking centers of Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija and Rushaga each with different gorilla families that are habituated for tourists.

Bwindi is a diverse tropical forest with thick vegetation and rugged terrain. Expert Uganda wildlife authority guides take visitors on a guided gorilla safaris that involve hiking on foot through the forest. To encounter the gorillas face to face is one of the unique trekking memories and you can hope to see and take photos of the gorillas for 1 hour.

Primate viewing

Besides the mountain gorillas, Uganda is also home other primates including the chimpanzee and golden monkeys. Chimpanzees are very close to humans by 98% of the DNA shared. Kibale forest national park is home to largest population of chimpanzees in Africa. It is a great place to see chimpanzees along with other 13 species of other primates including the Ugandan mangabay, grey checked mangabay, red colobus monkey, red tailed monkey, black and white colobus monkeys.

Golden monkeys are only found in Virunga chain of 8 volcanoes that straddle the border between Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Mgahinga gorilla national park in southwestern Uganda is a good spot for tracking golden monkeys. They prefer to live in bamboo vegetation which is not thick allowing for clear viewing and photography.

Game drives safari

Uganda is one of the best destinations to go on a wildlife viewing safari. The country has 10 national parks and 13 wildlife reserves which are great places to spot large mammals including the Big five. That is the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinos are found at Ziwa rhino sanctuary. The most favorite parks not miss if you are in Uganda include Murchison Falls National park, Queen Elizabeth national park, Kidepo valley national park and Lake Mburo national park. A variety of activities for spotting wildlife include boat cruise, night game drives, hot air balloon safaris, game walks.

White water rafting and kayaking on River Nile

Uganda is the source of the Nile; the world’s longest river starts to flow from Victoria Nile in Jinja city. Jinja city located 1 hour drive east of the capital Kampala is one of the biggest white water rafting and kayaking destinations in the world with class 3 and 5 rapids. A trip to Jinja can take up to 3 days but short excursions are possible for 1 day. Not only are the rapids of the Nile thrilling, but also the beautiful scenery and possibilities to spot wildlife and do more outdoor activities. On the way to Jinja from Kampala, you pass through Mabira tropical rainforest. You can do a canopy zip line tour or nature walk to encounter birds, primates, butterflies. The Victoria Nile in Jinja is a great spot to enjoy boat cruises, swimming, spot fishing; a trip to Jinja will be unforgettable experience.

Rhino tracking

Uganda is home to 23 southern white rhinos which are being protected at ziwa rhino sanctuary located 4 hours drive from Kampala in Nakasongora district just next to Murchison Falls National park.  Rhinos were poached to zero in Uganda but happily they have been brought back thanks to the efforts of rhino fund Uganda and Uganda wildlife authority. Ziwa rhino sanctuary offers an opportunity to track rhinos on foot with a ranger. It is an amazing wildlife experience especially done on a safari to Murchison Falls National park. It just takes a stopover at Ziwa en route to the park. Ziwa is also home to birds, antelopes and monkeys and offers accommodation where you can stay for as many nights as you wish.

Surfing in South Africa – Best Surf Spots and Beaches

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South Africa has become a popular destination for surfers from all around the world. And not without reason; in South Africa you will find world class surfs, but also get a real African adventure at the same time. Here you can enjoy safaris and wildlife one day and “Super Tubes” at J-bay the next. But before you leave home you should remind yourself that South Africa is a huge country, and it can be hard to get around to all the beaches in one week! And that is why I wrote this quick introduction to the South African surf, so you can choose where to go before you go!

Best Surf Spots around Cape Town

If you are looking for surf beaches for beginners in South Africa, you should probably start looking around Cape Town. At least that’s what I did! Muizenberg is a very popular surf spot just a short drive directly south of Cape Town. There you will find slow and smaller waves on a sandy beach that keeps your limbs safe when you crash into the ground. The warmer water temperature is another welcoming factor of this beach. But Muizenberg also has one major drawback; there is definitely a risk of encountering the great white shark! Fish Hoek is another spot for beginners, a few minutes further south from Muizenberg.

If you cut through the Cape peninsula to the west from False Bay and Muizenberg, you will find a very popular little surf mecca at Kommetjie and Long Beach. This is a good spot for beginners, intermediates as well as advanced surfers. This beach offers some different reef, some more protected than others, which gives Kommetjie a lot of variety, and you can choose between bigger and smaller waves.

Llandudnois another very nice beach with some great waves for the intermediate surfers. It has short rides, but sometimes with deep barrels.

For the really seasoned expert surfers, there are some really advanced surfs as well in the Cape Town area. Kalk Bay is one popular spot, which is supposed to offer some intense barrels on a left hand reef break. Noordhoek is another great spot for experts, just south of Cape Town. The waves can be very big here!

Surfing at Legendary Jeffrey’s Bay (J-Bay)

Located a long days drive from Cape Town, at the other end of the Garden Route, Jeffrey’s Bay is by far the most famous (and best) surf spot in South Africa! It hosts the annual Billabong Pro ASP World Tour, which draws huge crowds. You will always find people surfing here, as it is a good spot all year around. The surf is for advanced or expert surfers, with very fast and long rides, and is actually considered to be one of the world’s best right hand point breaks!

If J-Bay or the Cape Town surfs are not your thing, you should not worry! South Africa has endless spots for all kinds of surfers, and there are several sources on the internet to find them. Below I have listed the two websites that I found to be the most helpful in finding the best surf spots in South Africa:

http://www.wavescape.co.za

http://www.globalsurfers.com/country_details.cfm?land=South%20Africa

Good luck with your travels and surfs in South Africa, and please leave a comment below with your tips about where to find the ideal surfs, beaches and breaks!

Gorilla Naming Ceremony in Rwanda

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Rwanda is one of the three countries, which shelter the endangered mountain gorillas. Annually every year Rwanda cerebrates naming of newborn mountain Gorillas which is locally known as “Kwita lzina”. The ceremony takes place at Kinigi in Musanze headquarters of volcano national park. This yearly ceremony attracts a good number of tourists as well as local people.

The mountain Gorillas are unique endangered creatures that are only found in three countries that is Rwanda, Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Within the whole world, there as few as 1006 mountain gorillas. Rwanda attracts a considerable number of tourists interested in gorilla treks.

In most cases, the named babies are those ones born after the last naming. The newborn babies are given names according to the location it was born and the circumstance in which it was born.

Berize Akariza, the Chief Tourism Officer at Rwanda Development Board (RDB), describe the idea of gorilla naming as an utmost value given to the endangered species

Historically, the naming of gorillas started in 1960s by the researchers that were led by Dian Fossey who particularly named the Gorillas for study purposes as well as to accurate the monitor of the giants in the jungle in Volcanoes National Park.  Unfortunately, Dian Fossey was killed by the poachers who were not known but the naming of gorillas never ended there. Instead the naming continued with the rangers, trackers and researchers from Fossey Fund who were working among Gorillas every day.

This traditional Rwandan naming ceremony for humans is organized and managed by the Rwanda government known as Rwanda Development Board which operates national parks where gorillas live. This year’s gorilla naming was graced by H.E. President Paul Kagame who was the guest of honor and it was accompanied by lots of entertainment. The15th edition since 2005 was attended by several participants at the ceremony, including Rwandan and international officials, local and international conservationists, business leaders, sports personalities, musicians and others

What are some of the newborn gorilla names?

Due to the fact that humans baptize their new born babies, gorillas do the same because of sharing human DNA hence their newborn babies are given names.

The newborn baby from Isimbi family was named lngando meaning hope and sustainable tourism in Rwanda. All thanks goes to Jeremy Jeuncey the founder of Beautiful Destination and Advocate for Conservation who named this newborn baby.

The newborn baby from Amahoro family is called lsanzure meaning that gorillas should roam freely. The person responsible for choosing this name is madeleine Nyiratuza from conservation and restoration of Gishwati forest reserve.

The first Israel resident Ambassador Ron Adams named a baby gorilla as Igihango baby gorilla from sabyinyo family group which means the unbreakable bond between giant apes and their guardians

The World Wide Fund for Nature Director-General Marco Lambertini named lkirenga baby gorilla from Kwitonda group

Ibirori baby gorilla from Susa gorilla family was named by Sherrie Silver the award-winning choreographer.

The park ranger Jean Nepon Musekura from Volcanoes National Park named Bisoke baby gorilla from Ntambara group.

The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Rwanda Karen Chalyan named Umwijariko that denotes exception a baby gorilla from Ntambara group.

A senior tour guide with about 12 years’ experience in Rwanda, Mr. Robert Twibaze was also gives a chance to name lnzobere which denotes expert a baby gorilla from Agashya gorilla group.

Ne-yo the famous musician and song writer was also invited to name Biracyaza baby gorilla from the Kuryama group.

The UN Deputy Secretary-General and former Federal Minister of Environment of Nigeria Amina Mohammed named Ingoga baby gorilla from Umubano group.

The Kenyan entrepreneur and philanthropist Wilfred Kiboro named Ituze baby gorilla from Sabyinyo group.

The park ranger at Akagera National Park Anthony Nzuk named Karame baby gorilla from Korea group.

The name Inararibonye denotes wise and experienced and so Paul Milton alongside Luke Bailes named Inararibonye baby gorilla from the Pablo group.

The international supermodel Naomi Campbell named Intarutwa baby gorilla from Muhoza group.

The President of the Common wealth Games Federation Dame Louise Martin and Patricia Scotland named Iruiti baby gorilla from Igisha group.

Niringiyimana Emmanuel named Mugwire.

Donavan Ronan named Intego from Kwitonda group denoting purpose.

Umukuru baby mountain gorilla was named by Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe from the Pablo group as a tribute to the oldest elephant-Mutware in Akagera National Park that passed on in 2018.

 

What are other activities taking place on the ceremony?

The ceremony includes traditional dances and music, plus a poem.  The entertainment of these Rwandese reflect on their cultures and their  ways  of living which

How many were the infants?

During the kwita lzina ceremony, twenty five gorilla infants were named. Some of these infants were from families that are managed by the government agency and other Ten of them are from groups that the Fossey Fund protects. These infants were named by different special people. Interestingly specialists are demonstrated as gorilla newborn babies during the Rwiza Izina ceremony because among the rules and regulations of gorillas in Rwanda Development Board, gorillas aren’t allowed to be in a crowd.

What are some of the families whose infants have been given names?

Each family is unique in its own kind with a different stripy of its formation, gorilla numbers, and location. In volcano national park, there are 10 habituated family gorillas and some of these unique giant families with newborn babies are Susa, Amahoro and so on.

 

Apart from Rwanda, where else do we find gorillas and how much are permits

Uganda being the pearl of Africa, great apes happened to live in Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park. The country happens to have half of the gorilla population in the whole world and the habituated gorillas in Uganda are 17 families.16 gorilla habituated families in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga. Tourism in Uganda is led by Uganda Wildlife Authority which operates the wildlife creatures and provides gorilla permits to trackers as well as trustees companies. The gorilla permits costs 600 us dollars and 1500 us dollars for gorilla habituated individuals.

Despite the fact that Congo is not yet stable, it also has unique gorillas in the Virunga National Park. The gorillas are protected thought the un stability of the country has affected tourism negatively. The permits in Congo cost 400-450 us dollars.

The routes in both Uganda and Congo can be accessed by roads and flights according to what the tracker wants.

Photo Diary: The World’s Highest Bungee Jump in South Africa

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Garden Route offers everything from cute, little beach towns, to world class surfs and world class bungee jumping. I have already mentioned my road trip along the Garden Route, so here I will continue with sharing pictures and thoughts about one specific adventure this trip included: The World’s Highest Commercial Bungee Jump!

So we were on our way, driving, pretending to be all cool about it, while at the same time being extremely excited. I couldn’t tell if I was scared or not, but I was definitely not feeling normal. We got there, went on to the scale, had are weight written on our wrist in a bold, fat print (no place to be self conscious), and were strapped up in some sort of harness. I still wonder what this harness was for. Honestly I think it was just a thing they did to make us feel safe and protected. I can’t remember they ever strapped the harness into anything. Other than a tiny little rope to the “foot loop” during the jump. Anyways, after these preparations they led us out onto the bridge (see pictures).

Interestingly enough, the jumping does not take place on top of the bridge, but from a ramp built below it. You can barely see it on the photos. The path that takes you out to the ramp is of the see-through and wobbly kind, which made the walk out there almost as scary as the jump itself. Especially for my heroic friend who happened to be scared of heights.

Out on the ramp I was told that I was the first one to jump. I was cool with that, since I would rather get it over with as soon as possible. They strap a nice and padded loop around your feet, tighten it just not enough to make you feel secure, attach the loop to your harness with some dental floss and give you the thumbs up.

Ok, I am supposedly ready to go. I stand up, wobble over to the edge, still smiling and playing cool. I have to admit I was pretty nervous, but still able to hide it behind smiles and laughter. I peek over the edge and as they showed us on the video afterwards: My face went instantly from smile and coolness, to an intense mix of fear and horror, as if I had just realized that I swallowed a bomb by accident. At the same time as this massive fear exploded inside of me they started counting down from three. Not in a calm and relaxing counting, but in a screaming-at-the-top-of-your-lungs-counting. And I think their counting, plus the little push they gave me, is what actually made me jump.

My jump is likely to be the most embarrassing and disgraceful in South Africa’s bungee jumping history. While others can claim to be flying like a bird, or sailing like some other sort of bird, I was just falling. You know those little new born baby birds who jump out of their nest for the first time. That was me. I was falling, waving my arms, screaming, plummeting, screaming more, waving more, plummeting more, all until i was finally just hanging there. I didn’t realize at the time how ugly looking my jump was, all I remember is the extreme acceleration, the power, the wind, the sound of my voice and the feeling in my stomach.

The rest is history. Look at the pictures. My jump comes first, and then the perfect, flying swan that jumped after me. I think her gracefulness in the air must have contributed to the fact that I am today living with this girl, who I had just gotten to know at the time of the bungee experience.

Amazing Stories of Cape Town’s Table Mountain

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The Table Mountain in Cape Town is not only a magnificent sight. It is also the topic of several amazing myths, legends and stories. In this post I will share my favorites with you; two old legends and one true story.

The African Legend – Qamata vs Nkanyamba

This is the story of how Table Mountain was created, according to the traditional beliefs of the Xhosa people. It all starts with one of their most important gods, Qamata and his struggles to create dry land.

Qamata was the son of the sun god, Thixo, and the earth goddess, Jobela. He wanted to create dry land, but the dragon of the seas, Nkanyamba, was not pleased with that plan. The result was hard battles where Qamatas mother, Jobela, created four giants to fight against the sea dragon. Though, despite their size they could not withstand the dragon and they all were defeated. And as they died they all asked the earth goddess, Jobela, to turn them into mountains so they they could protect the land. Jobela did this, and the giant of the south became what we today know as Table Mountain.

The Dutch Legend – A Smoke Contest With The Devil

This is the legend of Jan Van Hunks and his passion for smoking. Van Hunks lived in a house at the foot of the mountain that we today call Devil’s Peak, and his favorite activity was smoking. Every day he would sit on the slopes of Devil’s Peak, smoking his pipe for hours. And then, one day, a stranger came up to him. They both were bragging about how much they could smoke, and they agreed to have a smoke contest. As a passionate smoker, Van Hunks probably thought he could beat anyone, but he did not know that the man he was competing against was the devil himself.

They placed a huge pile of tobacco in between them, and started puffing. Soon they were surrounded by smoke, and the cloud grew bigger and bigger until it covered the entire Table Mountain. Van Hunks had started to fear that he would actually loose the battle when he finally saw the stranger giving up. The man was too sick to continue, he leaned forward and the hat fell of his head. And that was when Van Hunks could see who he was up against. He had just beat the Devil in a smoking contest!

The devil was not pleased with loosing against a human, and being a bad looser, he clapped his hands and they both disappeared forever. But the smoke is still there to this day, a huge cloud on top of the Table Mountain, appropriately named the Table Cloth. And the Devil’s Peak was named after the stranger who lost a smoking contest on the mountain’s slopes.

A True Story of the Table Mountain

The Table Mountain is not only the topic of old myths and legends. This is the true story about how the Table Mountain became home to a huge, but short lived, Gold Rush.

In 1856 a local auctioneer, Mr Saleem, came up with a plot to make some quick money. He gave a piece of gold to his servant and asked him to tell the people of Cape Town that he had found the gold in the hills of Table Mountain. And not just that, he also said that there was a whole ore of gold up there, and more to find for whoever went to look for it. A scheme was successfully initiated.

As the rumor spread, people where racing to the mountain in order to dig for this precious metal. And as they arrived at the gorge where the gold was supposed to be hidden in the ground, they found that Mr Salem had already set up a base where he sold exactly what the men desired the most; beer, wine, spirit and sandwiches. At twice the price of what he could charge in town, of course. But the gold diggers where more than willing to pay, they were starving and thirsty from working in the heat. And surely they could afford it, soon their pockets would be full of gold.

The result was a five day gold rush in the Table Mountain, but no gold. The gold Mr Salem had given his servant was found in Australia years earlier. The only wealth created in this gold rush was a very nice profit to Mr Salem from his refreshments business. And Mr Salem fled the country soon after. To read the full story, check out today’s article in the Times Live: The Late, Great Cape Town Gold Rush.

Best Time to Visit Gorillas in DR Congo

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Planning to take part in gorilla safari adventure in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) but you do not know when it is favorable or the best time to travel?

When you think of a safari to any destination in Africa, first you need to be aware of when to get to that dream destination and so it is a case with gorilla trekking safaris in the DR Congo. For beginners, gorilla treks in the DRC are conducted in the Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. The two parks offer refuge to distinct gorilla species with mountain gorillas thriving only in Virunga and the eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Trips to see these unique creatures can be done at any time of the year however, regardless of this fact, you to put into consideration two important seasons-the dry and wet season.

Depending on what your travel interests are, the dry season is usually regarded as the most ideal season for one to explore more about these Great Apes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This season comes with favorable weather conditions and the ground is normally kept relatively drier making it a bit easier for one to hike through the park’s dense vegetation and steep slopes while in search for these amazing creatures.

The dry season equally is experienced twice a year with the first phase that starts from June to September while the second one begins from December to February. The advantage with trekking gorillas during this season is that, weather conditions are favorable as it comes with low rainfall amount received compared to the rainy season. However, the fact that DR Congo lies astride equator and given the kind of habitat where these creatures thrive, you have to expect rains at any time of the day. As well, note that the northern part of the Virunga National Park experiences its dry spell from December to February then when you to the south, the dry season is experienced between April and October.

On the other hand, the wet season which is also best known as the low season, is good for gorilla trekking given the advantage that it has. In the northern side of the Virunga National Park, the wet or rainy season is experienced from April to October while the southern part experiences it from late November to early March.

However, the DR Congo generally experiences its rainy season from October to November while the long wet season begins from Mid-March to late May. December features as the busiest month of the year when it comes to safaris in the Virunga National Park. For any plans to explore what this magical country has to offer for its visitors, please note that most visitors prefer visiting from June to September and then February as they are characterized by low rainfall amount. During this period or even other seasons, you are encouraged to secure your permit early enough to avoid last minute struggle that may result into disappointments as there is high demand for gorilla permits.

The wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall amount and dense vegetation cover and in the Virunga National Park it is experienced from March to May and October to November. The ground normally becomes muddy, slippery and this makes it a bit challenging for one to hike through the steep slopes and thick vegetation while in search for these creatures. Whether you plan to trek gorillas during wet or dry season, there is need for you to pack appropriately for your adventure. In your packing list, consider the following items a must-water proof hiking boots that are light weight, water proof daypack, gardening gloves, rain jacket or poncho, camera with no flashlight, walking stick (this one can be got at the park headquarters or lodge), insect repellent, sweater, a valid gorilla permit, long sleeved shirt or t-shirt, hat, sun glasses, first aid kit, snacks, bottled water a mention but a few.

In conclusion, if you have any plans to pay a visit to DRC for a safari this coming holiday, take note of both the dry and wet season as each comes with its advantages and disadvantages.

 

Guide to Visiting the Mountain Gorillas

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Plan a visit to the mountain gorillas in Africa using our resources. Here is exclusive information about gorilla trekking, best places to go, when to go and more. Trips to see remaining in 3 African countries of East Africa; Rwanda, Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Make an adventure of a lifetime with us and track mountain gorillas beyond two countries and maximize your travel excitement with the largest primates on planet earth.

We’ll track gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park; Rwanda and learn about what it takes to habituate them from their natural wild state till they are calm and accommodating to humankind for tourism activities.

Cross over a few kilometers into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and get mesmerized by the rugged terrain, thick and mist covered forests. Get extra doses of excitement by tracking these wild giants again and take great note of comparisons and similarities for they are never the same. Walk at leisure in the communities close to the park that have lived with the Mountain Gorillas all their lifetime. Share their experiences, listen to their music and moving stories, dance to their tunes. Wash off the fatigue of taming African jungles with an adrenaline raising boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi; the second deepest lake in Africa. The cool breezes will sooth your body and big swarms of beautiful birds tweeting in the air and magical views of floating islands calm your nerves. You have a big volume of wonderful experiences and authentic stories to live with and talk about all your lifetime.

Plan a Gorilla Visit

When should I track Mountain Gorillas in Uganda?Tourists want to get the best out of the fee they pay for gorilla tour and usually some tourists ask questions like; when is the best time for gorilla trekking?. While Mountain Gorillas can be trekked throughout the whole year, it is more pronounced during the drier months of June, July, August and early September then December up to February are the most preferred months for Gorilla trekking. No is guarantee is there that it will not rain in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest since it is a tropical rain forest and it is influenced by micro conditions of the area.

How much is Gorilla Tracking Permit in Uganda or Rwanda?

To obtain a gorilla permit, you should pay USD 600 to the Uganda Wildlife Authority. There are some months where there discounted permits at US$450 and this during the months of April. Following an announcement from the Uganda Willdife Authority all gorilla permit bookings from July 2020, the price for the gorilla permit has been increased to US$700 per person.

How can I reach Bwindi Impenetrable National park?

The park is located in south western Uganda and is divided into four regions. Buhoma region in North, Ruhija region in the east, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south. Each of this region has got habituated gorilla families for trekking/ tracking. If you are to trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National park, then you will need to mind about the specific regime where you are going as this will affect the lodge to be booked, gorilla as well as your transport.

When should I book my Gorilla permit/Tour?

Your Gorilla permit should be purchased three (3) months in advance to shortage most especially during the high season. The date you wish to travel should known by the tour company you wish to travel with.

What is included in a gorilla permit?

A gorilla permit allows you one hour with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park. Included in the cost are park entry fees for the respective parks, services of National Park guides/rangers who will escort you to the forest. Gorilla Tracking Uganda will ensure that you secure permits in advance

How long is a Gorilla Trek in Uganda or Rwanda?

Mountain gorilla trekking exercise can take from twenty minutes to three quarters of the day so one needs to prepare for both. This depends on several factors that include, mountain gorilla movements, where the gorillas stayed the previous night and the mood of the gorillas. It may also depend on the people in your group since the guides/rangers move following the slowest person in the group. Gorilla Tracking Uganda trading as Encounter Africa Safaris is happy to provide all relevant advice.

What is the age limit for Trekking Gorillas?

The age limit for gorilla tracking (Uganda and Rwanda) and golden monkey trekking (Uganda) is 15 years. The authorities are very strict on this, so kindly make sure all clients and children are 15 or older in order to avoid any sad incidents like guest(s) kids being refused to track!

The age limit for trekking chimpanzees in Uganda is 12 years old and children 10 years and older are allowed to trek golden monkeys in Rwanda as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Children under 15 years are allowed to Dian Fossey’s tomb – although the latter hike is a stiff one so we do not recommend that either to children under 12-13 years.

What should I pack for Gorilla trekking?

You need to prepare very well for your gorilla trek in Rwanda or Uganda, we advise trousers, long sleeved shirts or blouses, long socks to enable you tack in your trousers, garden gloves, a hat, sun glasses, hiking boots, insect repellents and some energy giving foods.

Do you have any questions about Gorillas?

In case you have any questions about Gorilla tracking, you will send an email with the tour company you are travelling with.

What is gorilla habituation experience?

The Gorilla habituation experience is an activity in Bwindi Impenetrable National park where tourists are allowed to stay four hours with mountain Gorillas after paying USD 1500 for a gorilla habituation permit. The Gorilla habituation safaris are currently taking place only in Rushaga located in southern part of Bwindi Forest.

The experience of Gorilla tracking with a booked Tour Company of your choice.

In Uganda, most tour companies organize safaris for Gorilla tracking and are conducted in depth with knowledgeable guides. They guarantee you a highly personalized gorilla trekking experience safari in the National Parks of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The endangered apes have been drawing for decades to the mountainous slopes of Virunga. The National park Bwindi is quite a threatening name and rightly so as thick jungle looms before you set off in search of hairy cousins.

It is not easy to get there because it is hard work. There is nothing interesting as the magical hour you spend with the Mountain Gorillas. The close proximity changes images of devoted mothers which care for their young cheeky babies clambering through the trees and awesome light of a massive silverback which will remain with you forever. Your sole journey to Uganda for Gorilla tracking will make you feel rewarded. Other activities which can be carried out along side Gorilla tracking in Uganda include; Chimpanzee trekking at Kibale Forest. This offers you a glimpse into the lives of our primate brothers. An additional tour is to Murchison falls national park where you will see the mighty Nile squeezes through a tiny seven meter gap. The tree climbing lions at queen Elizabeth National park are also interesting to your safari in Uganda.

Safaris with most tours and travel companies

African safari featuring gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo are intoxicating affair with a greater diversity of animals. You are called upon to visit the gorillas in the wild on exciting guided safaris offered by selected tour operators. A combined safari will enable you see a lot of amazing African animals including the big five as well the scenic landscapes that will make you fall in love with Africa.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking: A Lifetime Experience Only Done in Africa

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Gorilla trekking is the most interesting wild life encounter in the whole world which can only be experienced in Africa. It entails hiking in the tropical rain forests of Africa before reaching these rare endangered species. Though challenging, trekking is so much interesting since from the start to finish as the jungle envelops the hikers in its sounds associated with the calls of unseen birds, the soft hum of insects, the whispering of countless leaves, wrapped in emerald shadows, travelers also glimpse the secret lives of the rainforest’s shy creatures including the mountain gorillas.

Mountain gorillas being the close relatives of human beings sharing 98.3% of human genes, they are so susceptible to human diseases and therefore a distance of seven metres is encouraged between the trackers and the mountain gorillas. Trekking time can range from 45 minutes to 8 hours depending on the location of a gorilla family. All gorillas live in families with each family headed by a dominant silver back that plans for the entire family and defending it against all external attacks, every gorilla is so much attached to its family and cannot join another family even if the two different families come in contact. Female gorillas are the mums in the family who nurse and cater for the young ones sin the entire family.

Once a trekking group approaches the gorilla family all other things are left with the porters except non flash cameras. While on a gorilla trek, trekkers are reminded of the seven meter distance and quietness as they observe the gorillas and take photographs for the maximum of one hour.

Mountain gorillas in Africa can be trekked in the following places:

Uganda

Uganda is a home to half of the mountain gorillas in the whole world. Approximately 480 gorillas are situated in Uganda in the two national parks of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park both in south western Uganda. Trekking in Uganda is interesting because there are 13 gorilla families with 12 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga all available for trekking.

More still, the tow national parks are 7-8 hour drive from the international airport of Entebbe and this provides travelers an opportunity view other attractions and natural features en-route to the gorilla national parks. Travelers to Uganda also come in contact with other wild life for example the golden monkeys, elephants and many bird species which all provides a memorable experience to travelers never to forget.

Rwanda

Trekking in Rwanda is an easy in, easy out game. It is done in the volcanoes national park located only two hour drive from the international air port of Kigali. This short distance allows short time travelers to trek mountain gorillas in that they can even trek on the day of arrival despite tie long distance in Uganda. Trekkers in Rwanda can also pay a visit to the Dian Fossey grave site and will also encounter different animal and bird species which all adds to the final tourism experience.

There are 10 gorilla families in the volcanoes national park available for trekking and a gorilla permit is sold at 750usd quite expensive compared to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Democratic republic of Congo

Although done at a relatively low rate as compared to Uganda and Rwanda, mountain gorilla trekking in the DRC is now going on. It is done in the virunga national park and a gorilla permit is sold at 450usd which is quite cheaper compared to Uganda and Rwanda.

In the last years, the political instabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the neighboring Rwanda led to the death and fleeing of many mountain gorillas since their habits the tropical rain forests were used by the rebel groups for hiding. This put trekking and tourism at a standstill but however at present the country has stabilized and gorilla trekking is done peacefully. There are other attractions such as the world’s largest lava lake at the summit of mount Nyiragongo among others.

Conclusively, mountain gorilla trekking is the best wild life encounter that provide memorable experience.  It can be done in only three countries of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and therefore travelers can choose to trek in any of the three or visit all the three countries for the greater and memorable experience.

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