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Christian The Friendly African Lion

African lions have a reputation for being the fierce king of beasts, and a predator to avoid in the wild at all costs.

Here is an astonishing and delightful story that shows lions are in fact capable of lasting friendships and gentleness in their relationship with humans.

However, it may not be wise to test out whether those lions you see on safari are as friendly as the one you will meet in this video!

More of the story of Christian the lion, and the role played by George Adamson, reknown for the Born Free story, can be found in this DVD.

Read about the Adamsons and their lions in Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds

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Should You Go On A Hunting Safari In Africa

Some people go on safaris in order to enjoy the sights of nature, others to enjoy the outdoors in exotic locations. Still, others like to combine the two with their love of hunting. Traditionally, hunting safaris in Africa was the main draw and the source for the traditional look you’d expect from these, with khaki clothes, pith helmets, and all. For those who are looking for a new experience while hunting, a safari in Africa may be just what you need, though there are many things to consider.

The Animals

Years ago, you might go on a hunting safari in Africa expecting to bag a lion, or perhaps an elephant with some huge tusks. But due to the endangered status of many African animals, those sorts of safaris are merely a thing of the past. Still, you can expect to hunt exotic creatures like the kudu and the impala while on a hunting safari in Africa. And while you won’t be allowed to shoot at any lions, for those looking to hunt tougher game, you can shoot a cheetah or leopard for your trophy.

The Guides

Most packages for hunting safaris in Africa include a personal guide, which can be a valuable asset for hunters. African game animals have plenty of natural predators to watch out for, so an experienced hunter can make the difference between a trophy and a miss when you’re going after one of these highly-aware animals. Many companies that offer hunting safaris in Africa also give a guarantee that you’ll get a trophy, since they’re so confident in their guides. And best of all, even if you don’t bag any game while out hunting, you’ll still basically have your own personal guide; most hunting safaris in Africa consist of one or two guides and one or two customers.

The Cost

One thing that you do need to keep in mind while planning a hunting safari in Africa is that they do cost a lot of money. In order to prepare for such a trip, you would need to get a passport, immunize yourself against local diseases in some cases, and ship appropriate clothing and equipment to your destination country. And then, once you’ve bagged an animal, you often have to pay trophy fees; most hunting packages include a few in the cost, but only for specific animals. If you bag a leopard, for instance, you’ll have to pay a hefty fee on top of what you’ve already spent. This can rapidly add to the cost of your trip. However, if you’re willing to pay the cost, then a hunting safari in Africa might provide the unique hunting experience that you’ve been looking for.

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Safari Vest

What to wear on safari?

A very popular choice of safari garment is a safari vest.

The safari vest is a handy way to carry all those little accessories you might need, while keeping your hands free. Variations of the safari vest are especially designed for photographers to carry extra lenses, filters, lens cleaning gear, film, or what have you. Other variations are available to suit the needs of fishermen and hunters. On safari, you might want to carry extras like some first aid equipment, a pocket knife, a notebook and pen, an animal and bird identification guide, maps, some snacks to eat, and perhaps gadgets such as a GPS and mobile phone. A safari vest is a convenient way to go on safari well equipped, while still looking the part.

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BANANA REPUBLIC SAFARI TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER VEST PANTS
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African Safari Holidays For Adventure Thrills

African safari holidays are thrillers in more ways than one. These African holidays will be more thrilling than the most exciting movie because an African safari holiday takes place in fabulous natural settings with big skies and powerful waterfalls. An African safari holiday is a thriller because of the views of gigantic animals such as hippos or elephants making their way through their natural homes. An African safari is thrilling because of the minute birds and crazy monkeys as they play or search for their food. In the zoo where most people view animals, a trainer in a uniform with a bowl of hay is not the same as a monkey going after a banana in a tree.

African safari holidays are possible in many different countries on the dark continent of Africa. Kenya has a huge number of wild animals roaming about the countryside where tourists can go on an African safari. An African safari in Kenya might include accommodations at one of the beautiful hotels located around the country. Some of the hotels are closer to the animals than others, and tourists will be pleased with most of these hotels as part of their African safari holiday. The tour busses leave from the hotels to view elephants, zebras and other beautiful and impressive animals moving about the countryside.

African Safari Holidays Come In Many Prices And Arrangements

Any tourist can spend a little or a lot on an African safari holiday. There are some great packaged African holidays already in South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana and Namibia. Those who want a unique experience should make arrangement for a camping trip in the wild where they will be closer to the animals. The expert guides know the countryside, they know the animals and they know how to take care of their guests. An African safari holiday can return the guests to their hotel every night, but there is nothing quite as exciting as an African safari that spends the nights out in the wild among the animals.

African safari holidays come in all shapes and sizes. There are African safari holidays that will fit in many budgets, and there are African holidays for only those with deep pockets. The main attraction of an African safari will always be the wonderful animals in natural settings. The accommodations and meals are secondary but important. Those who want a luxurious camping trip in the wild will find great possibilities. Those who want a quick trip fit for a meager budget will also be able to find an African safari holiday at a reasonable price.

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How to Make an African Safari for Children Enjoyable

You and your spouse love to travel. However, since you had your children, you have been too busy raising them to do as much traveling as you once did. Now that the children are a bit older, you have decided that the next summer vacation should include an African safari. Will that be a bad decision? Well, there are several ways that you can make an African safari for children enjoyable.

About African Safaris for Children

The first thing that you need to consider before you plan the African safari for your children is the inoculations that each of you will need before you get to Africa. Your doctor will advise on other medications you may need against such things as malaria, which can be caught from mosquito bites.

Surprisingly, you might find your children are less excited about the safari trip than you are, because they don't know what to expect. You need to teach them what it is all about, and why it will be a great experience. You should begin by discussing all of the African wildlife animals you might see.

Children often love books that include exotic animals such as cheetahs and the rhinoceros. They will most likely become much more excited if they realize that they can often see these animals on an African safari.

Children love to play games, and so this is a great opportunity for you to get them excited. Have the children make a list of all the animals they would like to see. Next, have them find picture of each animal. You can make their lists into little booklets, so that while they are on the safari they can identify their favorite animals. You can save their booklets to include in a scrapbook.

The most important thing on this trip, as well as any trip, is safety. You should be sure that the safari you have chosen is not as adventurous as an adult safari would be. Thus, it is important to consult with a travel agent to make sure that this African safari only includes a very minimal element of risk.

Be sure that you book your African safari well in advance of when you plan to go, because they can be very popular and you might not be able to find suitable accommodations for children at the last minute. Also, when it comes to the price, depending on the package that you choose, it should be noted that African safaris can be expensive, especially for a larger family.

For more information on African safaris for children, consult various travel magazines or search the internet. With the proper research, you are sure to find an African safari that is both enjoyable and safe for children.

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Consider an African Dream Safari Honeymoon

You are soon to be married, and this is one of the most exciting times in your life. However, you and your fiancé have yet to decide where you would like to go on your honeymoon. You two have already taken the standard vacations to tropical places, and would like to make your honeymoon different. One idea that you could try is an African dream safari.

About African Dream Safaris

African dream safaris are different for each person, because everyone has their own definition of what an African safari should be. For some people, an African safari involves a lot of adventure, and lots of action in terms of travel and seeing animals that they have never seen before.

Other people think of an African safari as being more of a luxurious vacation, with air conditioned vehicles that leisurely drive through safe roads, after which, the passengers get to go back to their luxury hotels, complete with a massage.

Since this is your honeymoon, it is a better idea to go the luxurious route. After all, African safaris in general would be very tiring, and no couple wants to be exhausted throughout much of their honeymoon!

Thus, for your African dream safari, begin by picking a safari that includes comfortable transportation, and only lasts for part of the stay. The more serious safaris begin early in the morning, and last the better part of a day.

There are some hotels in African that offer special excursions that allow you to see some of the exotic animals of Africa, while at the same time being completely safe. Thus, the next step is for you to find a romantic hotel to stay in.

When it comes to finding the right hotel, it is important to note that upper-class hotels mean paying upper-class prices. However, many of these hotels have the most unique views of African wildlife and scenery that you could ever hope to find.

So if you want to stay in a luxurious African hotel, be sure that you book the honeymoon suite a considerable amount of time in advance. This way, not only are you assured of the suite, but you also have time to save the money!

If you would like more information on fulfilling your dream of going on an African safari, consult your local travel agent. You can also search various travel sites on the internet. You are sure to find the right African safari for your honeymoon with the proper research.

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Savannah Safari And Africa Wonders

When you think of an African safari the images of the savannah with its rich mix of animal wildlife, may come to mind - much as you will often see on the Discovery channel. In some ways Africa will look familiar to television viewers, but there is so much more to see in real life that will change your outlook on nature forever. When booking a savannah safari, and a visit to Africa in general, expect to see many of the savanna plains animals. Included in this group are elephants, giraffe, antelope, water buffalo, and many unique birds.

Other savannah safari and African wonders will include seeing the big cats including the lions and cheetahs. If the timing is right, you might catch the glimpse of a leopard. Other animals to see will include the hyenas and the cute little meerkats that have become popular on the TV. You can also look out for reptiles like the snakes and crocodiles that exist on the savannah. One of the most dangerous animals in all of Africa can be found on a savannah safari and Africa. The Cape buffalo is very large and can be quite aggressive towards people. Because some of the animals to be seen on the savannah are dangerous, it is always best to listen to the safari guide. They live in and around the animals and understand all of the warning signs that the animals make.

Savannah Safari And Africa Vacation

When planning a savannah safari and Africa vacation, you should recognize out how physically demanding a safari is. Take some exercise first to get fit, and make sure to see a doctor before booking the trip in order to make sure you can handle it. Even if the savannah safari and Africa vacation will mainly consist of sitting in a seat on a safari vehicle, the heat and dust and flies might make some people think twice. Remember that watching a trip on the discovery channel is comfortable because of air conditioning and a bed or comfortable lounge chair and the lack of spitting dust and biting flies. If you do have physical limitations you may want to look for a safari company which special facilities for you.

Even if you have never been to Africa, just seeing it on TV makes people want to visit. Africa has so much to offer and everyone should try to see it first hand if they can. The people, the wildlife, and the natural environment will fill the soul and bring a new respect for nature in our very busy world. There is nothing like the thrill that you will experience while on a savannah safari and Africa vacation. It will be something that will fill your thoughts for years to come.

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Danger And Beauty On An African Safari

The danger and beauty of wild, unrestrained nature as it has been for so many years has intrigued and enthralled people around the world since David Livingston wrote home to England of his adventures in Africa.  An African safari has long been in the top list of many a traveler's dream vacations.  How exciting it would be to see a lion, the King of the jungle himself, lounging in the shade with the rest of his pride.  To be so close to danger, and yet still safe from it all is one of the reasons safaris and Africa are so popular.
 
When most people think of Africa and safaris, their mind automatically goes to the Serengeti. This gorgeous expanse of African wilderness has been home to many different thrilling animals from almost the dawn of time. Seeing elephants and hippos and giraffes, in addition to so many others, makes for a very memorable experience. Your poor camera will be so completely worn out.
 
Like A Scene From "Out Of Africa"
 
Which countries in Africa offer the best in attractions and tours?  Kenya usually finds itself at the top of the list for safaris in Africa.  Travel to this country's most beautiful parks during seven or ten day jaunts that offer an array of experiences you could only dream about.  Tanzania, with a park located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zambia are also popular destinations for safaris in Africa.

But there are reputable companies in other parts of Africa as well.  Do your research and read all information thoroughly before committing your time and money to anywhere in particular.  There are also web sites, like The Virtual Tourist that offers ratings and comments from people who have already been where you are going. 
 
For some people, booking an African safari sounds very difficult and time consuming.  The nervousness and excitement of visiting another country so far from your home can also put you on edge.  And maybe at one time planning was a headache, but not anymore.  Thanks to the internet, companies are making it easier than ever for you to have the vacation of a lifetime.

African Safari tour organizers like the African Safari Club, for example, can set you up with all the travel arrangements in place for your safari expedition. You can choose from different tour packages - and select how many days you want - and you are almost good to go.  Some parks require an admittance fee that is not included in the safari price.  But this can be handled locally and still through the company.

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An African Wildlife Safari Is A Remarkable Excursion

A hippo in a zoo is a fascinating sight, and a lion in a circus is an interesting creature. On an African wildlife safari, you can see these creatures in their natural habitats so the experience is more incredible. An African wildlife safari is probably one of the most interesting excursions that anyone can have in this modern world. Although there are the modern amenities in the cities, an African wildlife safari takes the guests to landscapes filled with animals untouched by the progress of the rest of the world. Many of the game reserves that will be viewed on an African wildlife safari are strictly protected to preserve the natural habitats of the animal's native to the African continent.

An African wildlife safari can take place in several countries, and Kenya is the most popular place to start. Kenya has some of the most fascinating places to view the animals of this mysterious continent. The accommodations in Kenya range from five star hotels to camps closer to the animals. An African wildlife safari will take the travelers to the preserves located throughout the country to view lions in their prides, hippos in the water and zebras eating on the plains.

An African Wildlife Safari Views Life In The Wild

The largest continent of Africa has the preserves that are familiar to those that have watched movies or documentaries filmed in Africa. There are also many isolated places that have remarkable scenery and animals roaming freely through nature. South Africa has some exciting preserves, wonderful hotels and excellent transportation. Tanzania borders Kenya, but the preserves in Tanzania are more remote and less crowded. There are African wildlife safaris throughout Tanzania that provide guests with fancy hotels rooms or camping sites in the wild closer to the animals.

African wildlife safaris are possible in Botswana and Namibia. These countries are off the beaten track so the experiences are more unique. There are excellent accommodations for visitors in these countries so they can view the wildlife roaming free. In Botswana, travelers can view the magnificent Victoria Falls and the wildlife in the Kalahari Game Reserve. There are cheetahs, gazelles and exotic birds in the wild. There are no enclosures or cages like those in the local zoo. In Namibia, guests can drive or fly over the natural habitats with cheetahs, springbok and impala. Those looking for an adventure should plan an African wildlife safari for a memorable time. An African safari takes place in magnificent surroundings, and an African safari is full of incredible images.

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How to Take the Best African Safari Photos

You have always had an interest in photography, and would like to add more exotic landscapes to your portfolio. As a result, you have made a list of places that you would like to photograph, and Africa is at the top of the list. You have decided that you would like to take a safari, so what you need are some tips as to how to take the best African Safari photos.

About African Safari Photos

If you have seen African safari photos, you know that you will need a special kind of camera to be able to capture those exotic animals up close. It is important to note that the camera you choose will need a particularly strong telephoto or zoom lens. This is because the animals will not come close to the vehicle you are in, and because they might be easily startled by a flash.

With the flash preferably turned off, you are now ready to take your African safari photos. Begin by considering the time of day. The most impressive pictures are usually taken either at sunrise, sunset, or in direct sunlight.

Thus, if you are beginning your safari during sunrise, you can begin by taking a picture of the sunrise against a specific kind of backdrop. If you take an African safari photo of just the sunrise, that really could be a sunrise from anywhere. Thus, you need something in the picture that definitely reminds those who are looking at the picture that it was taken in Africa.

For example, if you are preparing to take an African safari photo of the sunrise and you happen to see a herd of giraffes walking by, be sure to take a picture. Or, you can ask your safari guides to pose for a picture against the backdrop of the sunrise. One more idea is to take a picture of particular buildings or signs that clearly indicate where you are.

When it comes to taking pictures of animals, your safari guides will most likely be sure to tell you about the necessary safety precautions to take. First of all, stay in the vehicle at all times, even if it is stopped. You might be able to ask the driver if you can take certain pictures at certain points outside of the vehicle.

Next, you should make sure that you are properly insured against any hazards. This includes your camera equipment. If you would like more information on the proper ways to take African safari photos, be sure to do some research on photography sites that have to do with that topic on the internet. You are sure to take beautiful pictures of your safari with the proper research.

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