Tag Archive for 'lion'

See the Big Five on a South Africa Kruger Park Safari

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on September 17, 2008
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A Kruger Park Safari is one of the most popular safari tours. Kruger National Park is located in South Africa, and is considered one of the best game sanctuaries in all of Africa. The Kruger Safari National Park is the home to 130 different mammals, 114 reptile species, and 468 various types of birds. While staying in some of the most luxurious and stylish accommodations in the country, you stand a very good chance of seeing each of what is considered the “big five”: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. It is a combination of all of these factors that make a South Africa Kruger safari one of the most sought after types of holidays in this region. Keep in mind that these amazing travel packages will also come with a hefty price tag, so save your pennies for what is sure to be the vacation adventure of a lifetime.

Different Types of South Africa Kruger Safaris

Because of the popularity and size of the Kruger National Park, there are a number of different types of vacation packages to this area that you can choose from. One option is to travel through this park by open-air vehicle, with tent camping overnight at various locations. These tours include guides and staff that will ensure that your South Africa Kruger safari is safe, comfortable and memorable. While this may be a more rustic style of trip, the food is generally good, beverages are often included and there are ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Another choice in South Africa Kruger safaris is a self-driven tour with a rental car, and accommodations waiting after your scenic trips throughout the area. This is a good option for family travel, since the rental cars are generally roomy, and the accommodations are not quite as rustic in nature. In fact, some of the lodges even include a swimming pool and other special amenities to make your vacation relaxing even as it is exciting. You can choose to drive yourself to the wildlife viewing areas, or you can park your rental car and take an open-air safari vehicle that will give you the benefit of a professional guide and better viewing opportunities. The choice is yours in the fun-filled and action-packed South Africa Kruger safari.

Finally, you can combine luxury with adventure when you opt for a South Africa Kruger safari that will include accommodations at one of the finest resorts in the area, as well as some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing from the safety and comfort of an air-conditioned safari vehicle. Your guides and staff are there to ensure that you have a completely comfortable and satisfying experience with your South Africa Kruger Park Safari. No matter which course you choose to take to see this part of the world, you are nearly guaranteed a vacation that you won’t forget in a lifetime.

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How to Plan for Your Safari in the African Savannah

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on September 14, 2008
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You are excited about the idea of a vacation in Africa, a place you have never been before. When you think of Africa, perhaps you have in mind images of vast plains dotted with wild animals, but little else about what exactly to expect. You have decided that the perfect vacation for you would be a safari in the African Savannah, but where to start planning your trip?

Safaris in the African Savannah are an experience like no other. You have often had to watch “The Lion King” with your children, and now this is your chance to be in your own version! The African Savannah is known throughout the world as a place where many diverse species of animals live, and safaris in the African Savannah allow you to see them.

Some people think that while they are on a safari in the African Savannah they will see every exotic animal that they expect to see. However, this is not necessarily true. It all has to do with where the safari guides decide to direct the safari through, as well as the animals themselves. For example, if you take your safari on a particularly hot day, you might not see as many animals, since they will most likely look for the shade. Early morning or late evening may be the best times to look.

If you do get to see lots of exotic animals, there are some safety precautions that you should follow. Some of these safety precautions can include not making loud noises, and staying in the vehicle at all times. Also, if you plan on taking pictures, you will most likely have to turn off your flash, so that the flash does not startle the animals.

Remember, as beautiful as a safari in the African Savannah can be, it can also be expensive. First, you need to consider the cost of the plane tickets, which all has to do with the airline that you choose, as well as where you are flying from. Next, you need to find suitable accommodations, which will take a considerable amount of research.

Be sure that wherever you plan to stay, it is in a safe area, as well as an area that is close to where you will plan on going for your safari. If where you plan on staying is a bit more expensive, be sure that you book far enough in advance that you can start saving some money!

With such a lot to consider, and so many locations and tours to choose from, it pays to take the time to learn more about your options and what to expect. Fodor's hot new African Safari Planner is one of the best resources available. Fodor's The Complete African Safari Planner, 1st Edition: With Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa & Tanzania (Full-Color Gold Guides)

Paperback: 584 pages
Publisher: Fodor's; 1 edition (August 5, 2008)
Language: English

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Should You Go On A Hunting Safari In Africa

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on September 8, 2008
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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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Savannah Safari And Africa Wonders

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on June 4, 2008
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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

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on June 1, 2008
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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

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on May 29, 2008
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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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Ernest Hemingway and African Safaris

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on May 23, 2008
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In one way or another, we have all had contact with the work or read about the life of the famous American writer Ernest Hemingway. We don't usually associate Hemingway with hunting expeditions or wilderness. Those who know a bit about the man have read of swashbuckling tales of drinking, bull fighting and hard living. We knew him as an avid sportsman who even penned one of his great books, The Sun Also Rises, around the annual running of the bulls in Spain. However, what the average person might not know is that Hemingway travelled to Africa to hunt twice in his lifetime and wrote several short stories and novels about the experience. Hemingway is even credited by some with bringing the Swahili word "safari" into common usage in the English language. Although he was not considered one of the greatest hunters, his love of the experience led him to a close understanding of the Kenyan people, which was uncommon in his time.

His first visit to the African continent was in 1933 with his second wife, Pauline. Together they visited both Kenya and Tanzania. During this time, and even before he went on his first African hunt, Hemingway became sick with dysentery. For several weeks, he was laid up in a hospital in Nairobi, where he met other adventure-seeking men from America and Europe. After mending and continuing with the safari, Hemingway returned home to write The Green Hills of Africa. The book's poor sales depressed him, but the two shorter works he penned on the trip, The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber and The Snows of Kilimanjaro, are considered classics about African hunters.

In 1954, the great writer set out on another African safari with his fourth wife, Mary. By this time, Hemingway was drinking far too much, but his love of the safari called him to travel once again. It was a dangerous time, as Kenya's Mau Mau was rebelling against British colonists. Still, it was not the violent rebellion that almost cost the Hemingways their lives. The Hemingways were involved in two serious plane crashes that almost killed them and the injuries Hemingway suffered plagued him for the rest of his life. He wrote about this second safari and his relationship with a young African girl in True at First Light, a book that is written as fiction but generally considered autobiographical.

Many modern companies have sought to emulate the Hemingway safaris. Various packages are available for African and especially Kenyan tours, mostly for the enjoyment of taking pictures or observing the wildlife. Many of these modern tours involve high quality lodges rather than the camping experience of Pappa's day. While expensive, many of these modern safaris boast fine lodges and private guides to take tourists through the African jungles and plains. Most of these new wildlife safaris have private itineraries that can be changed at a moment's notice and private trail cars and guides. While they're still connected to the beauty of the African landscape, they offer controlled environments that often tour through preserves and national parks. Some of the more famous of these tours bring back memories of Hemingway's more famous works, but most are not cheap. One company offers a 14-day experience called the Kilimanjaro tour that costs over three thousand dollars. Others offer excursions to places like Uganda to view gorillas.

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Private African Safari Adventure

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on May 20, 2008
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In order to experience one of the greatest adventures of a lifetime you must first travel to Kenya in Africa. A private safari in Africa is probably the greatest pleasure and excitement that you can ever imagine. The Governors Private Camp in Masai Mara, Kenya is a world class wonder. This mobile private Africa safari will be tailored to suit your individual pleasures. The world famous staff is experienced and skilled to please each and every guest in the true private African safari style. The wildlife in Masai Mara is absolutely incomparable to any other wildlife in the world.

The animals in this area flow throughout the entire year. If you are lucky enough to take your private African safari sometime between July and October, the Mara becomes the backdrop for one the world’s greatest spectacles. There are approximately 1.4 million wildebeest and zebra that surge up from the Tanzania’s Serengeti plains for their annual search of their life sustaining seasonal grasses. These animals sweep through the tall golden grasses and rivers in gigantic swarms. Their encounters with predators are a jaw dropping event on your African private safari. Your guides from the Governors Private Camp know exactly where to place you for that perfect view of one of the world’s greatest wonders.

The Accommodations

The accommodations for this private Africa safari rival no other. With the backdrop of a colorful jungle and thousands of birds and butterflies, your luxurious accommodations are astounding. Elephants wander through camp at night and leopards call nearby. Your suites are luxurious African tents under canvas with a private veranda. You have your own bucket shower, a flush toilet and water basin. There is electricity and, believe it or not, room service.

The executive chef at the Governors Private Camp will see to it that every meal is of the highest quality. Many meals are the wild game that you catch that day. The dining room is open with a view of the Mara River. You will experience three game drives daily and game walks on your African private safari.

The stories that you bring home with you about your African adventure will be priceless. Your memories from a private Africa safari will last a lifetime. And if your family is lucky enough to accompany you, the educational aspect is far superior to anything you could receive in a classroom. Kenya is the country to visit to experience the best of an African private safari.

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Lions Of Jao African Safari

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on May 17, 2008
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For a true African adventure, the African Safari of Jao in Botswana is the vacation to book. Jao is known for its high concentration of Lion. It can offer both land and water activities on the river Okavango. This area is known for its predators and, Jao Camp itself, is located on the border of the Moremi Game Reserve. The camp is on a densely wooded oval shaped island that overlooks the vast flood plains of Botswana. It has incredible habitats and permanent waterways and lagoons. An African safari in Jao is a very memorable safari. The skilled staff at Jao Camp will see to it that all of your needs are met, African style. The Jao African safari wildlife experience is pure African wildlife at its finest. Chances are good that every wild animal that you want to experience will appear. A Jao African safari experience is the safari of a lifetime.

The Accommodations

Your Jao African safari accommodations will consist of African style luxury rooms. The bedrooms are raised wooden decks above palm carpets, constructed of split bamboo and thatch with canvas walls. Each room also has a “sala” for midday siestas with a superb view. Each camp can sleep a maximum of 16 people. Each suite includes a flush toilet and basin, shower and an outdoor shower. Underneath a tree canopy of cool thatch you will find the main dining room and pub area. There is a pool and an outdoor boma for dining under the stars. A raised walkway connects the rooms to the dining rooms and lounge areas.

Game Viewing

Your Jao African safari experience offers excellent game drives, mokoro excursions, short guided walks and boating trips. Since Jao Camp is next to the Moremi Game Reserve, night drives are permitted. This allows your African safari Jao trip to include an exclusive view of the nocturnally active animals in the area.

Your Jao African safari will most probably include views of Lion and Leopard in their natural habitats. Tsessebe, Lechwe and Wildebeest roam all over the flood plains. The wildlife appearances in Jao depend mainly on the water levels in the area. But, generally, a diverse group of wild animals will be plentiful on your safari. The lagoons are the home to the Hippo and Crocodile. The permanent water areas attract large numbers of these two animals. But the King of the Jungle, the Lion, will be a sure thing. The Jao African safari is known for its abundance of Lion sightings. Have your camera in hand and don’t miss this one of a kind jungle experience.

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The Animals On Safaris In South Africa

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on May 14, 2008
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A safari in South Africa can be one of the most interesting travel destinations, providing a glimpse at carefully preserved lands, diverse wild animals, and a sense of adventure that is perhaps unmatched. There are some great places for safaris in South Africa, since there are multiple game reserves that provide a place to preserve the diversity of Africa’s animal species. If you aren’t convinced that you can see some truly interesting species while on safari in South Africa, here are a few of the rare and exotic species you’ll see.

Lions

One of the big cat species and on that is in decline, on safari in South Africa is a great place to see these felines. In prehistoric times, these predators ranged as far as Europe, but that is no longer the case. However, areas such as Kruger National Park in South Africa boasts a population of about 2,000 lions, which is a sizable chunk of the remaining world population.

Elephants

Elephants are another popular species that makes its home on the grasslands of South Africa. Here, they tend to thrive more than in other areas, with some areas actually experiencing overpopulation problems, resulting in attempts to control the species through birth control, though success has been limited. However, for those going on safari in South Africa, this means you’re likely to get a good look at these giant land mammals.

Black Rhinos

The black rhino shares distinction with the lions and elephants as one of the Big Five game animals, which were originally referred to five large species that were considered particularly desirable to hunt for. This species is nearly extinct due to hunting, though, as they are often targeted by poachers for their horns. The total world population of black rhinos is less than 4,000, and in some parts of Africa, these large creatures have disappeared completely. With as many as 250 black rhinos on some game reserves in South Africa, a safari in this country might be one of your only chances to see these outside of a zoo.

Antelope

One species that you’ll see plenty of while on safari in South Africa is antelope. Home to several distinct species, these herd animals are still thriving and exist in great herds. From the common eland with their thin, straight horns to the impala with their lyre-shaped set of horns, these creatures are agile, numerous, and provide a source of food for the predators of the grasslands. While these animals may be more common than some of the larger species, their exotic looks add to the feel of being in someplace different while on a safari in South Africa. So, from common and exotic to rare species, head to South Africa so you can enjoy the sights of these wild animals in their natural environment.

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