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With vibrant streets and friendly people you will always feel welcome and at home here. Cape Town is modern and chic with segments of different communities contributing to the unique blend of culture here. You also have the combination of all climates and topography all within very close proximity of each other, so one minute you can be surfing or sun tanning on the glorious beaches and the next you can be breathing in the crisp air as you hike through the Cape vineyards. You will not be disappointed when you come to Cape Town at any time of year.

The different seasons hold splendid sights and experiences that can only be attributed to that specific time of year, so to get a true and overall picture of Cape Town; you need to make more than one trip during different times of year. The weather here is great almost all year round. There are very rainy days in winter and very windy days in summer, but this does not continue for the entire season and most of the time you will have stunning days that are warm and peaceful.

There is so much to see and do here that it is hard to know where to start. If you are new to the country and the Cape, perhaps the best place to start your vacation is in the heart of the Mother City. Here you can visit all the art galleries and museums and by just walking through the streets of Cape Town CBD and the Foreshore you will soon have a pretty good grasp of things. There are streets for the arty and chic, places that are more European with lovely coffee shops and cafes, there are the more earthy, bohemian aspects, areas where the African culture shines, up-market areas, and those that are more down to earth and bustling with the locals. There are craft markets, eateries, as well as interesting, historical places like the tranquil Gardens of Cape Town, Parliament buildings, the President's Residence, the Planetarium, and the Artscape Theatre. You should also make time to go on a tour of the Castle of Good Hope which will be a prominent sight as you travel into the city. This 5-sided castle was once a fort and the tallest building in Cape Town, until the skyscrapers were introduced. The old Town Hall is also great to view and the magnificent architecture is very well preserved and elegant. The Cape Town City library is also housed in this building.

You can also see the most famous of the Cape Town landmarks - Table Mountain. There are regular Cable Car ride up to the top of the flat topped mountain where there are restaurants, shops, walking trails and perfect sunset viewing spots. Weddings and other functions can also be planned up on Table Mountain, but the weather can be of concern during the windy times of year, as the cable car does not ride up due to the strong gusts and the infamous "table cloth" of thick cloud that covers the top. On the other side of Table Mountain sits the botanical gardens of Kirstenbosch which must not be missed.

Moving away from the city center you have a choice of going north or south, east or west. The far south is located along a narrow Peninsula and this is where the historical and seaside towns of Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, and Simon's Town are located. Simon's Town is where the country's naval base is located and offers a quaint Mediterranean vibe. There are lovely old buildings and great naval vessels to see, as well as the firing guns at Lower North Battery which are still in use. You can also go to the 100 year old Jubilee Square where the statue of Just Nuisance, the famous navy dog, stands proudly. From here the marvels of Cape Point are just a short, very pleasant drive away. Here you can see the Chacma Baboons in their natural habitat as well as various antelope and zebra inside the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. There is also an ostrich farm, craft stalls, picnic areas and attractions like Diaz Cross, Da Gama Cross, Cape Point Lighthouse, and the exact point where the two oceans meet - the southeastern most point of the African continent.

If you travel northwards from Cape Town you will get into the hotter northern suburbs and find great places like Durbanville with great wine farms, Tygerburg Zoo, Monkey Town, the Belville Veladrome, and the historical winelands town of Paarl. From here you can move eastward to include other wine areas that make up the longest wine route in the world, like those in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, with their own unique histories. Along the East Coast you can get to amazing town of Hermanus where the annual Whale Festival is held and the Southern Right Whale migration and breeding is best seen. You should also visit very tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas. If you want to travel along the West Coast of the Cape you will move into the cooler Atlantic Ocean side where the small fishermen type villages still preside with white washed walls and wonderful, untouched natural beauty.

Because South Africa is so off the beaten path for most vacationers - heck it's a 20-hour flight from New York - Cape Town doesn't receive nearly the number of tourists as other vacation hot spots around the world. It's unfortunate because the whole of South Africa is quite amazing.

By: Lisa Jenkins
Lisa Jenkins is a freelance writer for discount travel, a discount travel website with detailed country travel guides. Jenkins lets travelers know what to see and do while in South Africa, including trips to renowned South Africa wineries. The country is expected to receive a major tourism boost thanks to World Cup South Africa coming in 2010.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080523-163554 Once you have set eyes on the spectacular beauty of Plettenberg Bay, you will certainly never forget it. The breathtaking beauty is nothing short of astonishing, set against a majestic backdrop of spectacular mountains that span from one horizon to the next. The actual town is nestled against one side of the bay, against deep rich forests and separated from the indigo blue of the Indian Ocean by never ending stretches of sandy white beaches. You may just feel as though you have stepped into a postcard.

Plettenberg Bay is truly a paradise for tourists with weather that is continually warm and pleasant. In the waters of the bay you will be able to discover a rich marine life. As the warm and cold waters of the currents of the Indian Ocean blend, a biodiversity that is unparalleled is created. The Bay is home to a wide array of common dolphins, which happen to be quite playful, as well as the endangered Bottle-nosed dolphins and even some rather shy Humpback dolphins as well. In addition, local residents include Byrde's whales and Orca whales. Southern Right whales can also be found splashing in the bay as well. In fact, the biodiversity of the bay is so rich that it is literally the only place in the entire world where the rare Tropical Beaked whale has been witnessed.

There are a number of elevated lookout points that offer fabulous whale watching opportunities as well as many marine safaris and boat whale watching tours. For an even more personal encounter with these gentle giants, consider enjoying the opportunity for fabulous scuba diving or taking a guided snorkeling trail.

You will also find there are many different natural wonders here as well, including more than a doze public and private nature reserves. The spectacular flora and fauna which stretches through the reserves are like no other anywhere in the world and are just waiting to be explored. The Robberg Nature reserve somewhat dominates the bay, offering panoramic views, fabulous birding, excellent dolphin and whale watching and three great hiking routes. The Nelson Bay Cave is also located nearby. It is in this archeological site that evidence of human residence dates back more than 120,000 years has been discovered.

If you are after big adventure, you may wish to join a guided hike or drive that will take you through the Buffalo Hills Private Game Reserve where you just may have the opportunity to spot wildebeest, buffalo, white rhino, giraffe and many other animals in addition to a wide array of different species of birds.

At the Touch a Monkey's Heart Foundation, you can learn more about incredible lemurs, gibbons, monkeys and other primates. You can also view and learn more about the African elephant at the Knysna Elephant Park, a controlled and free range environment that is home to rescued African elephants.

The unspoiled forests, lagoons, sand dunes, wetlands and sun drenched beaches make Plettenberg Bay the perfect vacation destination if you are interested in relaxing and enjoying world famous natural beauty.

By: Kadence Buchanan
We are your source for Cape Town Accommodation, Cape Town Hotels, Bed and Breakfast in Cape Town, and more for your next vacation to the Western Cape.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080510-205334 Somerset West, home to a number of wine estates, is one of the most beautiful and popular areas of the Western Cape. While you are in the area soaking up the natural beauty you will certainly wish to tour at least a few of the wine estates in the local area and taste some of the fine vintages produced here.

Franschhoek is considered to be one of the premier winery regions in the world. The fertile ground in this region was first used by the French to produce wine some 300 years ago. Today, the noble tradition first begun by the Huguenots continues. There are more than twenty wine farms in the region, many of which are considered to be among the most respected in South Africa. You will find everything from excellent whites such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and Semillon to rich and vibrant reds like Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Most farms happily welcome visitors to enjoy tastings.

Paarl Vinters is another region which is definitely worth exploring if you are a wine connoisseur. The wines produced in this region are primarily reds and the this area has become known as the Red route. Some of the best red wines in the world are produced here due to the ideal soils, micro-climates and strong red tradition.

While wine certainly does form a strong part of the local region, there are also many other activities and sights to enjoy while in Somerset West. Spend an enjoyable afternoon in Schreuderhuis, a thatched village museum, which represents some of the main stylistic periods spanning the past three centuries. The museum was actually one of the first dozen dwellings to be formed when the pioneer settlement was established. Step back in time to the eve of the French revolution while also admiring neoclassical architecture and even a typical Victorian residence of the late 19th century. A Toy and Miniature Museum is also on site and well worth visiting for both the young as well as the young at heart.

The Botanical gardens are also a must see, located in the oldest university gardens in South Africa. Indigenous and exotic plants are contained inside the museum, ranging from herb and desert plants to orchids and lilies. Many of the plants you will find inside the gardens are quite rare, so this is definitely worth a stop by in Somerset West.

Finally, make sure you drop by the oldest homestead in the Cape, Groot Constantia. The Manor House was originally allocated in 1685 to Governor Simon van der Stel. Today, it portrays everyday life in the 19th century. Collections include Delft ceramics as well as typical Cape furniture from the mid-18th century. Both drinking and storage vessels in a range of materials dating back to 500BC are contained in the Wine Museum. Cellar tours and wine tastings are offered inside the complex while two on-site restaurants offer both Cape Cuisine and Continental Style Cuisine.

From wine tasting to museum explorations, Somerset West has plenty to offer in terms of culture.

By: Kadence Buchanan
We are your source for Cape Town Accommodation, Cape Town Hotels, Bed and Breakfast in Cape Town, and more for your next vacation to the Western Cape.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080428-214429 Wilderness offers a wonderful temperature year around, with summers as well as winters that are warm and sunny. This picture perfect destination is situated between te Goukama Nature Reserve and the Kaaimans River. The breathtaking Outeniqua Mountains border the area, providing even more depth and interest to the beauty of Wilderness.

During the 19th century, the area was well known for its natural beauty and hospitality. The only lodging during the time came in the form of a quaint stone farmhouse. Wildnerness' reputation for goodwill and hospitality became well established during this time period. Later, a boarding house right on the sea was established. It would later come to be known as the Karos Wilderness Hotel.

Today, Wilderness is known for its sun splashed beaches and tranquil sea. In fact, Wildnerness has today become one of the most popular holiday resorts for international visitors. Once you have laid eyes on the numerous lagoons, natural lakes and rivers you will see why so many water sport enthusiasts flock to the area each and every year.

The National Park boasts five lakes, five rivers, two estuaries and 18 km of sweeping coastline. Wildlife, especially birds, abound in the area; making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. You will also be able to enjoy a wide range of different recreational activities including whale watching, horse riding, hiking, dolphin watching, scenic drives and mountain biking. In addition, there are a number of ferry cruises and day tours which will provide you with an intimate view of the beauty of Wilderness.

There are also a number of different talented craftsmen working in the local area, providing the opportunity to pick up fabulous finds and bargains at craft markets which are held on a monthly basis. Most are held toward the middle or end of the month, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly so you will not miss the opportunity to snatch up these fabulous wares.

The rustic charm of downtown will certainly inspire you and is definitely an experience you will never forget. This small village of timeless beauty offers numerous things to see and do. Be sure to check out the Map of Africa Viewpoint, where you can take advantage of a sweeping view of the Kaaimans River. Dolphin Point is another must see, offering a vast view of the ocean for mile upon mile. The viewpoint gained its name from the large number of dolphins which can frequently be viewed from the sight regularly. During breeding season, which occurs during the winter, the sight is also an excellent location for whale watching as well.

From the Kaaimans River Bridge, you can snap fabulous photos of the Outeniqua Tjoe-Choo as it makes its way over the ocean on its daily trek from Knysna to George.

Top off your trip with a visit to Woodville Tree, a famed picnic spot and home to a tree which is believed to be approximately 800 years old.

From dolphin and whale watching to expansive outdoor recreation, Wilderness is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely and hospitable holiday.

By: Kadence Buchanan
We are your source for Cape Town Accommodation, Cape Town Hotels, Bed and Breakfast in Cape Town, and more for your next vacation to the Western Cape.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080413-211346 The African hunting safari will take you to some of the most primitive as well as modern places all across Africa. From the lush forests to the expansive savannas to the tumbling waterfalls to the lofty mountains there is a land of beauty as well as magnificence that awaits you providing you with the opportunity to hunt the best magnificent trophy animals in complete safety.

No Shortage Of Choices

The choices of African hunting safaris are many and you would like the South African safari that has a very spectacular landscape that is much appreciated all across the world. The plateaus of Zimbabwe and its intertwined hills and valleys provide hunters with good gaming opportunities.

There is also Botswana with scrubby savannas and sandy basins as well as the great Kalahari Desert to provide varied game. The last frontier in Africa is certainly Tanzania which has the Rift Valley as well as vast plains that add a different dimension to the African hunting safari. And, if you wish to go great cat hunting, then take the African hunting safari in Zambia which has flat hills as well as huge valleys that have many of these creatures waiting for you to aim at.

You can shoot with your gun, or with your camera and the African hunting safari gives you the opportunity to shoot different big game including the lion, elephant, leopard as well as antelopes, hippos, giraffes and a whole lot more. You will also find the aardwolf as well as zebra in your sights on an African hunting safari.

You will certainly love the African hunting safari as you bounce on the back of an old jeep in your search for big game including elephants, tigers, gazelles as well as rhinoceroses. Since these animals are usually not found in captivity seeing them live is a big thrill in itself. Also, African hunting safaris have undergone a sea change and they are not all about killing animals, since many of them are protected. The photographer is more welcome and the excitement is the same.

You might choose to go for a night African hunting safari so that you can catch nocturnal animals such as lions, or you may choose to go in a small group aboard a jeep, or be one amongst a large group. You may have to spend the nights in tent villages which mean that often you don't have to venture too far out to see the animals graze. In any case, your guide would know all the watering holes as well as places where to track animals that you are interested. Check with them and they'll most willing to give you good advice.

By: Low Jeremy
safari.articlekeep.com contains other articles relating to African Safari like vacation tips for African Safari vacation tips for African Safari.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080325-020023 Culture of morocco tells us about the ethics and civilization followed by the people. Moroccan cultural tours says about the people, their behavior, tradition followed and many other concept which is considered as most important and essential as well as most required for the people. These cultural tours comes up with wide thoughts followed, it may beliefs, set of behavior to be followed by the people, festival and their religion. Culture of morocco comprises of wide and detailed history of the people and their tradition. Morocco tours and holidays enable the people to know more about the morocco culture tours. Art and culture in morocco is excellent and it beautifully tells the people regarding the social structure of morocco. Morocco cultural tours specify the ethics, civilization, religion, diversification and all their specifications. The cultural language of morocco is entirely different and it distinguishes itself from other languages.

Morocco culture comes up with Berber tents and camel trek and morocco women are more civilized and they are customized. Fes guesthouse, morocco climate, morocco women, morocco food, morocco education and lot more says about the cultural tours in morocco. Morocco culture offers a pleasant, traditionalized, customized and relaxed culture to the people and it make the Moroccan to be enjoyed with the cultural civilization. The mixture of the French language and the Islamic religion make Morocco a unique destination for us. It is important for travelers to learn as much as possible in advance so that we can travel respecting these differences and minimizing any negative impacts.

Modest dress and a few words in local language are the keys to unlocking the doors of local interaction in Morocco. A respect and understanding of the differences between yourself and the other citizens of the world will make for beneficial interaction for all parties. In particular your visit to the small village Imlil in the High Atlas Mountains and the experience of camping in the Sahara with the Berber people gives you the opportunity to share the best of yourself and receive the best the locals of these environs have to offer. This will be a life time experience for you.

Trekking in the Atlas Mountains will surely make for an incredible holiday. The tiny villages perched on the sides of the mountain, the warmth and hospitality of the Berber people and the spectacular views over there all add up to an amazing Atlas Mountain holiday. Marrakech or Marrakech, known as the "Red City" or "Al Hamra," is a famous city with a population of 1,036,500 in southwestern Morocco, near the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. After Casablanca, Marrakesh is the second largest city in Morocco and was known to early travelers as "Morocco City." Prior to the advent of the Almoravids in the 11th century, this area was ruled from the city of Aghmat.

Marrakech has the largest traditional market in Morocco and also has the busiest square in the entire continent of Africa, which is called Djemaa el Fna. The square bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, dancers, water sellers and musicians by day; and food stalls by night, becoming a huge open-air restaurant.

Like many North African and Middle Eastern cities, Marrakech is comprised of both old fortified city the medina and an adjacent modern city called Gueliz. It is served by Menara International Airport and a rail link to Casablanca and the north.

By: Ron Victor
Ron Victor is an Expert author for morocco tours. He has written many articles like morocco tours and holidays, morocco cultural tours, morocco vacations, custom morocco tours, morocco holidays. For more information visit our site. Contact me at ron.seocopywriter@gmail.com]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080312-220902 A tour to Egypt can be a good experience with the variety of delights that the country has to offer. A large number of tourists flank the world-famous Sahara desert and the Giza pyramids. One would wonder how a country with its hot and dry climate, plays such a gracious host to so many people. However, every day there is an increasing number of people visiting Egypt. The main tourist attractions in Egypt are the Sahara desert, the Giza pyramids and the Karnak temple.

The Sahara desert is the largest in the world, encompassing approximately 3,320,000 square miles. Geographically, on the west of the desert lies the Atlantic Ocean, and to its north are the Atlas Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. To the east lies Red Sea, and to the South, a zone of ancient, immobile sand dunes. The desert is a beautiful sight when the golden rays of the sun glisten on the sand dunes.

The Giza Pyramids in Egypt are in Greater Cairo and are one of the wonders of the world. The Egyptian pharaoh Khufu of the Fourth Dynasty built this monument around the year 2560 BC, to serve as a tomb when he died. The tradition of pyramid building began in Ancient Egypt, so as to serve as a ""platform"" covering the royal tomb. Today, the Great Pyramid is enclosed with the other pyramids and the Sphinx, in the tourist region of the Giza Plateau. The structure consists of approximately 2 million blocks of stone, each weighing more than two tons. These are popularly referred to as either “The Granaries of Joseph” or ""The Mountains of Pharaoh"".

The Karnak Temple is in El-Karnak, a small village on the banks of the river Nile. The temple consists of an open-air museum that has four main parts namely, the precincts of Amon-Re, Montu, Mut and the temple of Amenhotep IV. This temple was constructed around the 18th century B.C. The Karnak temple is the most-visited site in Egypt after the Giza pyramids and is the largest ancient site in the world.

The Valley of the Kings and the modern Opera house are other popular attractions in Egypt.

By: Eddie Tobey
Egypt provides detailed information on Egypt, Egypt Tours, Egypt Travels, Ancient Egypt and more. Egypt is affiliated with Cheap Flights Dubai.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080304-194002 When thinking of Morocco, many things come to mind. The famous Casablanca, never ending sand, hot weather and mirages were some of the things I first thought of. However, Morocco is far from being just that. Beautiful in its own right, its culture and diversity is something you'll be truly immersed in the moment you set foot on their land.

Unlike most countries, Morocco isn't anywhere near being a wealthy place with ultra modern skyscrapers. Though their bigger cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, Agadir do have their modern centers and buildings, the outskirts is where real Morocco seems to lie.

One way to experience Morocco apart from being in the city would be trekking through the High Atlas Mountains. Seeing it from afar, one usually gawks in awe at the never ending hills with snowy tops and fog, greenery surrounding the foot of the mountains. To some it presents a challenge, to others its excitement. Whichever way you see it, you'll remember the experience for life. Head for the popular Toubkal Mountain in the High Atlas, which has the highest peak of 4167m, a view which will make all the steep slopes and unbelievably long walks worthwhile.

Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains are the famous Berber tribes. The indigenous people of North Africa, you'll find they're rarely bothered with outside life but are ever so heartwarming when you stop by for a chat. Something not to be missed as you're trekking through the Atlas Mountains, these people live a way of life you'll deem simplistic, yet charming.

If mountains don't do it for you, there is always the opposite extreme, the Sahara. Amazingly though, only a little bit of morocco is covered with dunes and such. The most famous would be the Erg Chebbi dunes, located near the city of Merzouga. Getting to the dunes is in itself a trek. Walking across the flattest land with what seems like miles before you get to the actual dunes. If you spend the night out in the Sahara, you'll be in for a real treat. Cooling temperatures at night and a blanket of the most beautiful night sky you've ever seen. Sleeping under the stars is literally what you will be doing, with the feeling of being in a totally different world.

Though Morocco is said to be one country, the many experiences you get from all over make it seem like you are in two or more different places at once. From the mix of the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans, the high Atlas Mountains to the beautiful dunes of the Sahara, Morocco is a place where it all comes together perfectly

By: Orson Johnson
Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Morocco holiday apartments & Holiday rentals worldwide.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080303-022649 The recent troubles in Kenya are a tragic situation for it's people; there can be no denying that. How this will affect it's tourist market in the near future remain to be seen but it is clear customers are shopping elsewhere for their safari experience in particular. Kenya is regarded as the home of the Safari with several years of growth in it's offering.

It is time for Zambia to compete in this market so says Simon Williams of VIPvillas. "The standard of accommodation and Safari experience in Zambia cannot be beaten. The country is the heart of Africa in more ways than one and to truly experience the continent and it's heritage you can't go wrong here." Zambia focuses most of it's Safari Experience on the 'Walking Safari'. A bit daunting for a first timer actually walking close to the animals but an experience that will not be forgotten! Really, how do you get a total understanding of the animals and their habitat while sitting in a caged four wheel drive vehicle? Simon thinks the experience of getting close to the animals provides a true replication of the early days of Safari. "Everyone has seen the film Born Free and I dare say many travellers think this is the type of experience they are going to get on Safari. Unfortunately with you in a van and the animal at a distance you don't really experience the beauty and sheer awe of them. With very experienced guides at your side and safety of the highest standards you have the opportunity to really understand the animals and their habitat. It's real adventure stuff; trekking on foot like David Attenborough!"

The TV presenter Michaela Strachan agrees with Simon. "Luangwa, Zambia, was the first place I went on a proper walking safari holiday. If you're into safaris and you've never tried a walking one I'd highly recommend it. You really feel part of the bush and see and learn about things that would pass you by if you were in a vehicle. At Kuyenda, we slept in a thatched cottage with the most amazing sausage tree right outside. The most memorable night for me was listening to an elephant chomping away at the sausage pods whilst we lay under our mozzie net in the middle of the night. It's always amazing falling asleep to the sounds of the African bush."

By: Andy Parr
Andy Parr is a respected travel professional who specializes in internet marketing.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080303-021028 Explore the breathtaking country of Mozambique, the ultimate tropical paradise

Mozambique is without a doubt the ultimate tropical paradise. It's particularly world renowned for diving and with spectacular coral reefs stretching along the 2,515 kilometres of warm clear Indian Ocean as its coastline, it's not surprising why. Mozambique is blessed with a generous amount of untamed beaches and little islands all astonishingly breathtaking.

Apart from diving there's a variety of sun filled water activities to quench the thirst of any beach holiday seeker: swimming, kayaking, sailing, dhow trips, snorkelling and fishing are among the most popular activities to keep one busy in this beautiful beach dreamland.

With all these wonderful activities you can work up quite an appetite and that's a good thing - with the world's most exquisite seafood on your doorstep there's bound to be something to soothe your palate's liking, especially prawns. This is most definitely a delicacy you should treat yourself to when you visit the various restaurants along the coastline.

The best times to explore:

If you want to get the most out of your holiday without having to worry about bad weather that might spoil your sun filled days, then it's best to visit Mozambique between May and November. This is the time when both rainfall and temperatures are at their lowest with pleasant temperatures between 20 to 29°C (68-85°F). It is also possible to plan your holiday during the early part of the warmer, rainy season from November to January, only if you can tolerate the high temperatures though.

Avoid going from February to April: if you attempt to go for a holiday during this period the only thing you're bound to explore is an overabundance of rain, floods and even strong monsoon winds which are definitely not recommended.

It's also advisable to start booking your vacation well in advance if you're planning to go around Easter, Christmas, New Year's and in August as these are the most popular visiting times with the most visitors to the area.

How to get there and around

If you are from Europe or a distant part of Africa, the most affordable option to get to Mozambique is to fly to Johannesburg in South Africa. From there you can then fly or even take a bus to Maputo, which is the capital of Mozambique. If affordability doesn't bother you, but you're more eager to get to your destination without the Johannesburg pit stop - the following airways will fly you straight to Maputo: Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM), Air Portugal and Kenya Airways. Once you're in Mozambique the best ways to travel around are either by bus, which will get you to all the major towns, or by air. If you are travelling off the main routes then converted passenger trucks called chapa-cems (chapas) will get you where you want to be. There are also regular flights to all the major destinations from Maputo to Vilankulo, Beira, Nampula, Pemba and other major destinations. Another alternative is to take the private charter airlines that will take you almost anywhere you like.

Some of the recommended places to explore:

Maputo:

Maputo is the capital city of Mozambique. It's a mixture between ethnic and cosmopolitan, giving it a truly unique presence with its Portuguese heritage. While in Maputo, definitely make a stop at the Mercado Municipal Market and the Roman Catholic Cathedral. If you are looking to spend a couple of days in the vibrant city, why not try the Holiday Inn; just 7 km from Maputo International Airport, making it an ideal spot to travel around in the city and best of all, it's situated right on the beachfront (on the Avenida da Marginal), the perfect place to enjoy a well deserved sun-downer after a long day of exploring.

Inhambane:

An overabundant stretch of beaches and tranquil days await your presence, or if you're planning a more active holiday there's also scuba diving, fishing, sailing sea safaris and snorkelling to keep you busy in this incredible paradise. One of the most spectacular and the only one of its kind in Africa is the Flamingo Bay Water Lodge. The lodge is situated on stilts in the calm Indian Ocean and offers true serenity in a luxury water chalet.

Pemba:

Pemba has the world's third largest deepwater harbour and is the capital in the province of Cabo Delgado situated in the far-north of Mozambique. The magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago in Pemba is one of those places that you thought you could only experience in your dreams. A captivating chain of 32 undeveloped islands and some of the richest coral reefs in the world, make this area an unexplored tourist paradise.

The problem with Mozambique is that there are just too many beautiful places to mention. You really do need lots of time to explore everything this astonishing paradise has to offer. Even when your holiday has sadly come to an end, Mozambique will pleasantly haunt your dreams. It's no wonder Mozambique is such difficult place to leave.

By: Tara Mary Mcgovern
Excape Tours and Travel is a world-class inbound tour operator, specializing in personalised safaris and travel itineraries to Mozambique, tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences.]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080302-215830 Kenya camping safari to Samburu/Great Rift Valley Lakes

A safari to the north via the high shoulder of Mt. Kenya to the Game Reserve of Samburu, then the world famous Bird Sanctuaries of the Great Rift Valley Lakes of Baringo, Bogoria and Nakuru.

DAY 1 - SAMBURU

Depart Nairobi in the morning passing through the rich agricultural farmland on the slopes of Mountain Kenya to the mainly dry scrub land and open Savannah plains of Samburu Game Reserve. Here the Ewaso Nyiro River supports a wide variety of game among them elephant, buffalo, cheetah leopard, lion, gravy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Oryx and the long necked gerenuk. Dinner and overnight camping.

DAY 2 - SAMBURU

Day spent game viewing in this Northern Kenya park. Dinner and overnight camping.

DAY 3 - BARINGO

Leaving Samburu in the early morning, we make a scenic drive to the west across the Lerochi Plateau, (lunch enroute) and later descend to the floor of the Great Rift Valley, arriving at Lake Baringo in the afternoon. This is a fresh water lake which supports a great variety of birds as well as hippos and crocodiles. Indeed, the lake is reputed to be the bird-watching center of Kenya. Dinner and overnight camping.

DAY 4 - LAKE NAKURU

Early in the morning we head south via Lake Bogoria which is a shallow soda lake with a beautiful scenery and also home to a sizeable number of flamingoes and other species of birds. The highlight, however, is the boiling hot springs and geysers - hot enough to boil an egg - which also contribute to the beauty of the lake. Don't fall in! After lunch, we proceed to Lake Nakuru in the south - another shallow soda lake which has been described as "an ornithologists paradise and one of the world's most magnificent sights". Here one has an opportunity to see up to two million flamingoes besides tens of thousands of other birds. Lake Nakuru is a rhino sanctuary and harbors lions, warthogs, waterbucks, buffaloes, hippo and many other animals. Dinner and overnight in a campsite .

DAY 5 -NAIROBI

After breakfast, we proceed to Nairobi arriving in the late afternoon.

By: Mary Muchiri
Skyview of Africa Ltd
P.O. Box 872 - 00200
Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: +254 20 3751672
Telfax +254 20 3751521
Email: safari@skyviewofafrica.com
Website: http://www.skyviewofafrica.com]]> http://travelafrica.findairlines.net/index.php?entry=entry080301-193709 The Garden route in South Africa has long been a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and unbelievable sights. Stretching across the coast of South Africa, the garden route starts from Mossel Bay and ends somewhere just out of Plettenberg Bay. The garden route is also one part of Africa that gives a near perfect climate almost all year round, making it a delight to visit whenever you feel like it.

To explore Garden Route in all its beauty, visiting more than one town is recommended. Most people start of with Knysna as their first destination Knysna is the unofficial capital of the Garden Route, with bustling life amidst the serene surroundings of nature. If you're looking for a laid-back feel, this town is the place to be. Though most famous for its Oysters, its surrounding lakes and lagoons, mountains and forestry make it such a picturesque place that you cant help but take in the beauty of it all.

However, most people come here to see the beauty of the garden route in a different way. The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is the last remaining passenger steam train in the whole of Africa and provides you with a 3hr scenic journey you'll never forget to and from George and Knysna. Pass lush greenery, rivers and mountain bends beautiful landscapes on this once in a life time train ride that will seem to bring you between parallel worlds.

To indulge more in nature however, head for the Tsitsikamma National Park. Located in between Plettenberg Bay and Port Elizabeth, this beautiful reserve will make all the walking you have to do in it worthwhile. Go on Otter trails or if you really want to surround yourself with nature, take a two day dolphin trail that will let you see the unrivalled beauty of Tsitsikamma. Watch the Indian waves crash onto the rocky coastline or just be amazed at the sheer beauty of the last remaining bits of rainforest that once covered the whole coast.

If you want a more modern way to enjoy the beauty of the Garden Route, head on toward Plenttenberg Bay. Almost a dozen nature reserves surround this area, with some of the most amazing marine life such as dolphins and even whales appearing in season. One of the most beautiful towns on the route, it offers beautiful beaches with plenty of outdoor activities to maximize your visit, from scuba diving amongst its beautiful coral and reef, to horse-back riding and paragliding.

Garden route showcases its beauty in an endless possibility of ways, and no matter how you choose to see it, none will leave you disappointed.

By: Orson Johnson
Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Cape Town holiday lets & Holiday accommodation.]]>