Archive for August 25th, 2006
One of the greatest treasures to be found in the Little Karoo along the Garden Route, is the Cango Caves in South Africa. Perhaps the earliest discoverers of this immense 5.3 kilometer long cave system were the San people who graced the entrance of the cave with beautiful rock art some 10 000 years ago while living here. However, there is no evidence that the San penetrated the caves much deeper than the large entrance – a task which would have been difficult at best for them. Since 1891 when the cave was officially opened to tourists, many thousands of visitors have chosen to explore the Cango Caves as part of a guided tour.
It all started when three brave men – Mr Van Zyl, Mr Oppel and Mr Windvogel – decided to explore the cave. They promptly lowered Mr Van Zyl (since the cave was on his farm) down a precipice and into the cave. From here he was able to make one of the most startling discoveries in South Africa at the time. By the light of his home-made candle, he found that the cave was filled with all manner of fantastical stalactites. These dramatic and colourful dripstone formations had taken eons to form and now they seemed to almost leak slowly down from the ceiling of the cavern in impressive and beautiful cascades of limestone. The caverns were extensive and no doubt took a long time to explore. Mr Van Zyl could never have dreamt of finding such an impressive wealth of natural splendour when he entered the cavern that day.
On that day, the 11th of July 1780, these early adventurers discovered what is now known as Cave One. While Mr Van Zyl no doubt recounted his adventures in the Cavern with some gusto to friends and family, he probably never dreamt of opening the caves to the public. Tourism was a virtually unheard of commodity in those early and difficult years. However, some 111 years later, this mysterious cave system was ready to be discovered by the rest of the world. The first man to guide guests around the cavern was Johnny van Wassenaar. As the caves grew in popularity, lights were installed to help guests see the beautiful rock formations more clearly. Research was done into the formation of these dripping limestone deposits and people soon realised that the harsh lighting was damaging the caves. Steps were taken to make the cave tours more environmentally friendly and this has had a positive effect on tourism.
Over the course of the years, a further two chambers have been discovered and now guests can enjoy even more amazing tours through the cave system. The largest cavern measures 107m across and 16m high. The entire cave system stays at a fairly constant 18ºC and guests are encouraged to dress in light clothing. You can choose from an easy 30 minute tour through two caverns, a one hour guided tour through eight chambers, or a roughly 90minute adventure tour where visitors are required to wriggle through narrow passages and climb steep pipes. It is a good idea to be at least reasonably fit before attempting the adventure tour. It is also advisable to book in advance for this as it is incredibly popular.
The Cango Caves in South Africa is one of the world’s great natural wonders. It has been estimated that current stalactite formations were begun over 20 million years ago and that more continue to form even today. In an effort to preserve this natural wonder, there are no facilities in the caves so it is advised that you take care of possible nuisances before the tour starts. Tours take place daily and are conducted every hour though longer tours must be booked for in advance. The tour guides are knowledgeable and their authority should be respected at all times. Smoking in the caves is prohibited as is touching the formations or climbing them. Make sure that you don’t miss out on the world’s finest stalactite cave!
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
Moving slowly through the bush, you hear a rumbling beneath you, it is not the sound of an engine, rather it is an inner chord struck by a living creature, an elephant. What better way to explore Africa’s wildlife than in contact with these large intelligent beasts who provide the ideal vantage point. An Elephant back safari in South Africa is a never to be forgotten experience that will truly touch your soul. South Africa’s elephant safaris are the perfect means to view wildlife up-close along with these gentle giant companions. Elephant back safaris in South Africa are available in a variety of locations and are worth the expense.
Become acquainted with the world’s largest land animals, the African Elephant. These impressive ’steeds’ can reach 6 tons or 11 000lb in mass, 4m at the shoulder and run at a speed of 40km/h (don’t worry, you won’t be traveling that fast!). Besides admiring their majestic beauty, you will be astounded at each elephant’s individual personality. Certain members of the herd may be more reserved whilst others are more boisterous or dominating, all of them endearing. Interact closely with the elephants whilst riding, walking amongst them or even splashing in the water with them. South African elephant safaris are a unique experience that you will always carry with you.
On an elephant back safari you are likely to have the greatest game viewing adventure of your life. The elephant’s own smell masks that of the riders and enables you to get very near to buck, rhinos, giraffe and other African residents. Just think of all the wildlife you will see seated on your living transporter.
Elephant back safaris offer a variety of options whether it is a day trip or a safari covering several days and all your needs are generally taken care of. A comfortable saddle will be strapped to the elephant and you will be assisted on along with the elephant handler. The ride itself usually lasts an 1 ½ hours, perhaps more. You will find that you quickly settle into the rhythm of the elephant’s strides. Meals are generally catered for. Accommodation is of a high standard for those planning longer safaris.
Camp Jabulani
Camp Jabulani located in the South African Limpopo province was the first reserve to introduce elephant back safaris. It is named for the young elephant bull who was found nearby and fostered by Lente Roode back to good health. The founder of Jabulani Camp, Lente Roode later discovered a herd of twelve trained elephants from Zimbabwe who were in danger. They were introduced into the Kapama Private Game Reserve here in South Africa. Today Camp Jabulani is a luxury tented camp with 13 adult elephants, namely Jabulani, Sebekwe, Nfuli, Jim, Semopane, Lundi, Bubu, Mnuyati, Joe, Setombe, Tokwe, Fishan and Dande, who are very willing to take you on a trail. As a Big 5 game reserve you will be able to view lion, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo and of course elephant. You are certain to learn much on your visit here. Contact the camp directly for details on rates and accommodation.
Addo Elephant Back Safaris
Addo Elephant Back Safaris located in South Africa’s Eastern Province offer you the options of walking amongst the elephants and learning about their behavior or riding on the friendly hulks through a diversity of South African landscapes. Contact them to find out about safari options and costs.
Magaliesberg Elephant Sanctuary
This Elephant Sanctuary and Guest lodge is beautifully located in the stunning Magaliesberg mountains of the North West Province. There is an abundance of wildlife to view here as well as 12 lovely elephants. Elephant Sanctuary is all about being hands-on with elephant back safaris, walks with the elephants as well as grooming and feeding the elephants. You will find it an opportunity for enlightenment and enrichment, an all-round magical encounter. Contact the Elephant Sanctuary to discover what they offer and the rates.
Your South African elephant back safari will be an unimaginably amazing adventure. Become one with nature as you interact with these extraordinary creatures, a truly fulfilling and unforgettable opportunity.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
Drifting through the skies, you look over the edge of the basket and your eyes are filled with the stunning landscape below you. This is the magic of hot air balloon safaris in South Africa. What better way to become acquainted with South Africa’s diverse, spectacular countryside. Hot air ballooning trips in South Africa offer an enchanting experience of floating high above the world. Whilst hot air ballooning has been a form of transport for many years, South African balloon safariscater to tourist needs and have become a very popular adventure activity.
Hot air balloons were introduced to South Africa in 1969 and were first utilized for reconnaissance by the military forces. The Aero Club of South Africa in 1972 established the Balloon section. In 1976 16 balloon pilots competed in the International Balloon Race which began in Johannesburg and ended in Durban – this was the year hot air ballooning really took off in South Africa.
Your hot air balloon safari is likely to have you up in the early hours of the morning as the majority are organized to begin before sunrise. After arriving you may be able to assist in rigging up the hot air balloon and you will be provided with an explanation as to how everything works. Soon enough you will feel yourself gently rising from the ground up to a height of around 10 to 20 meters. Slowly you will sail through the air. For an hour or so you will be awe-struck by the panoramic view which becomes ever clearer as the sun rises higher in the sky, covering the landscape in a warm glow. Hot air ballooning in South Africa is an experience individuals of all age groups will enjoy. The feeling of serenity you will sense along with the breathtaking view is well worth the somewhat high cost. Many hot air ballooning companies will provide you with a delicious champagne breakfast after you land, the ideal way to end off an extraordinary journey.
There are certain considerations to take note of when planning a hot air balloon trip. Hot air ballooning is greatly dependent on the weather as flying in fog, rain or strong winds can be dangerous. That is why most launches take place close to sunrise, before the day’s thermals start rising. Wear comfortable clothes and practical shoes. You may also want to bring sunglasses and/or a hat. A camera is a must to record your wonderful experience. Book your South African hot air ballooning trip at least two weeks in advance, it is a popular activity and places are limited. Bookings will only be confirmed a few days before your flight is scheduled due to its weather dependence.
Hot air balloon trips are offered in several locations throughout South Africa. Popular sites for balloon safaris include the Cape Winelands, Magaliesberg, Drakensberg, Natal Midlands, Oudtshoorn, Hoedspruit, Sabie and Hazy view.
Drakensberg/Kwazulu Natal Midlands
Hot air balloon flights are offered in this area by Airborne Adventures. The company has numerous launching points from where you can view the Midlands, Kamberg Valley and nearby Giants Castle. Flights last an hour and are followed by a delicious breakfast and Champagne.
Cape Winelands
Discover the beauty of the Boland, just an hour away from Cape Town. Hot air balloon flights take off in the stunning Berg River Valley where you will drift over vineyards, orchards and rolling fields. The wind will take you on a quiet journey, leaving you speechless. After a gentle landing you will be taxied to the Grande Roche Hotel where you can indulge in a buffet breakfast.
Hartebeespoort Dam – Gauteng
This gorgeous area offers some of the best weather for hot air ballooning. As you silently hover above the earth your eyes will be met by lovely valleys and the sparkling lake. Sip on champagne as you take in all the natural beauty, its simply dreamy. Bill Harrops offers this wonderful experience to thousands of passengers each year and has the experience to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Pilanesberg Game Reserve
Realize a new way to see Africa’s wildlife. Daily sunrise flights take travelers high up into the air where they can marvel at the African bush and spot a variety of fascinating wildlife (perhaps even the Big 5). After this ultimate game-viewing adventure you can enjoy champagne and a full English breakfast with your friends as you recount all that you have seen. Just picture yourself gently floating above an elephant herd or a sleeping pride of lions, astounding isn’t it?
Yes, hot air ballooning safaris in South Africa offer you a unique perspective of this country’s diverse and magnificent landscape.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
Most horse riders and lovers across the globe love the idea of riding amongst South Africa’s big five. Even for those who do not consider themselves to be terribly strong riders, many horse safaris in South Africa provide one of the ultimate game-viewing experiences to be had in the country. Few other game-viewing options provide a way of getting off the road and into the bush where you can quietly snap photographs of game only meters away. There are many South African horse safaris available across the country. If you can ride or enjoy the company of these exquisite animals, we suggest you get in contact with your travel agent to make arrangements.
As horses are animals, most wildlife pay little, if any, attention to them. This means you can get really close to a large number of animals without much more than some slight tension. Of course, human voices and noises would raise alarm in most wild animals so it is best to keep this to a minimum if you intend on seeing any game. Many South African’s would not even dream of venturing so close to Africa’s game on foot – knowing full well the dangers that even herbivores can unleash on an unsuspecting victim. However, from the height of a horses back, with those powerful legs beneath you, all this changes. Not only can you see game more easily, but you possible dangers in the long grass long before they become a threat. It also provides you with an instant top speed of anywhere between 50 – 70 km per hour so you can escape dangers much quicker than if you were on foot. Then of course there is the ultimate experience of sharing the wonders of nature with one of man’s most endearing companions.
The various horse trails and safari rides available in South Africa usually cater to a variety of riding skills. Trails which allow you to see the Big Five will usually only cater to experienced riders and trail guides have the authority to stop the trail or change it if they deem one or more riders unfit to handle the task at hand. Visitors should keep in mind that this is for your own safety – the last thing you would want to fall from your horse as he shies from a leopard or buffalo or to hinder his movements while he is attempting to flee from danger. Calmer trails may not feature such impressive animals, but they will usually allow you to see plenty of game which is just as rewarding. It is also a good idea to pay strict attention to your guide and follow his rules as he is in the best position to keep you safe and make your horse safari ride more enjoyable.
Many of the horses used on South African horse safaris or trail rides are locally bred for their ruggedness and good temperaments. Boerperds are popular, as are Basuto ponies. However, you will often find that other breeds such as Dutch Warmbloods, Arabs, and Thoroughbreds may be used. The majority of horse safari companies invest in Mclallan saddles as they are cheap and effective though not always very comfortable. Stock saddles, English general purpose saddles and sometimes western saddles may also be used. Since comfort for horse and rider are a top priority, some of the more expensive horse safari companies make extensive use of a locally made trail saddle which is built on request to fit each specific horse. Saddles often come with a sheepskin bumnah to provide added comfort for long hours in the saddle, though they can be quite hot.
Trails may vary from a few hours to a few days. You can enjoy a multi-day safari ride in complete luxury or you can rough-it in the African wilds. Not all companies provide protective clothing and your own clothing usually fits better than any which may be available for guests. You can use comfortable jeans or specialised riding pants, half or full chaps, a rigid, protective riding hat or a wide-brimmed soft hat, gloves or no gloves, and shoes with a small, safe heel. It is good to remember a high-factor sun cream as many riders suffer from sunburn. Insect repellent is also recommended. A small number of top-notch horse safari companies have been listed below but there are many others available. If your travel agent is unable to locate a suitable company on your behalf, you might try contacting the largest reserve available in the region that you will be visiting as these usually offer game viewing experiences from horseback.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
See Africa on Safari! For the ultimate African safari tours , our customized African safaris bring you the wonders of Africa up-close and personal. www.eyesonafrica.net specializes in planning and booking your custom and personalized African Safari tours to Africa. Our African safaris offer adventure travel to Africa. As African Safari experts, we arrange African safaris to the finest destinations in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Seychelles Islands, and East Africa.
The African safari vacation opportunities listed below are pre-planned (although we will customize any African safari to suit a request). Our pre-scheduled African safaris (with set departures and pricing) are offered in two styles: Explorer Safaris and Adventurer Safaris. The Specialist Guide safaris (no scheduled departures and therefore upon request only) include guides who are experts in the safari’s theme. See an African lion on a safari and more adventures. However, our true specialty is creating 100% customized safaris to suit your specific interests.
How do the safaris work and how much does an African safari cost?
Our scheduled safaris are offered on a limited basis, depart on set dates and also require a minimum of 2 or 4 guests. For this reason, most of the African safaris and African holidays we organize for our clients are 100 percent customized to their individual interests, timeframe and budget. We can design exact or very similar itineraries to those listed below, leaving on any date and adding or subtracting nights or destinations to suit your specific wishes. Even so, using the African safaris below as a guideline is a good way to help you figure out where to start. If you’re not sure, read about the safaris, look at some of the camps by clicking one of the countries on our main menu, and then give us a call so we can help you start planning.
As for prices, the rates for the destinations we offer cover a wide range and typically vary significantly from the “high season” (generally July through October) to the “low season” (generally November through June). We also offer over 200 properties, all with individual pricing and keeping these up to date on this website would be futile. For these reasons, we do not publish any property-specific rates on this website.
However, we do publish rates for most of our Scheduled African safaris - those safaris which have already been planned and scheduled by us or one of our ground operators in Africa and which depart on set dates, visiting specific locations. These safaris are found here. Our Specialist Guide safaris (also listed below) do not usually have set departure dates as they typically involve the services of a specialist guide and are set up based upon client requests. Contact us for rates on a Specialist Guide African safari.
We encourage you to contact us for a quotation; we are here to assist you in planning an amazing African holiday. We really are passionate about what we do and we welcome all enquires.
You will also notice that the African safaris usually show (on the detailed write-up pages) a duration (in days) which is for the pre-scheduled departures for that African safari. The African safaris below may also be booked privately as a group at any time of the year. Keep in mind that we specialize in Custom African Safaris and that we will do our best to tailor any African safari (including those below) to any length based on your availability of time and specific requirements.
Source : www.eyesonafrica.net
August 25th, 2006
Stunning Sodwana Bay, situated within South Africa’s Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, is world-renowned for exquisite diving and the turtles who nest here. Reef diving in Sodwana Bay provides divers from around the world the amazing opportunity to explore the World Heritage Site’s unmarred coral reefs, home to a grand diversity of sea life. Experiencing Sodwana Bay’s scuba diving will leave you with no doubts as to why it is considered South Africa’s diving mecca. Along with the exquisite reef diving in the St Lucia Wetland Park, visitors can enjoy exploring the coastal forests, bird watching and surfing as well as trips to Mabibi and/or lake Sibaya.
Sodwana Bay is ideal for both shark diving and reef diving all year round. The best conditions are from April through September. Visibility in Sodwana’s waters can vary between 10 and 40 meters, averaging around 15m. Water temperatures are mild measuring between 24 and 28ºC and requiring 3mm or 5mm wetsuits. There is much to explore on Sodwana Bay’s reefs which are mostly located at around 18m, sometimes less. Amongst the hard corals, caves, pinnacles and blow holes, divers will come across an abundance of sea creatures and life forms. Over 1200 fish species grace the waters of Sodwana bay as well as sharks, bottle-nosed dolphins, turtles (leatherback, loggerhead, hawksbill and green), humpback and southern right whales and whale sharks. Shark species you are likely to meet in the bay’s crystal waters are the bull/Zambezi shark, thresher shark, copper shark, ragged-tooth shark, dusky shark, tiger shark, black tip shark and hammerhead. Other interesting fish life you can observe are reef fish, pelagic fish, moray eels, manta rays, spotted eagle rays and ribbon tail skates. Sodwana Bay’s sea conditions are perfect for night dives when the coral polyps emerge and invertebrates can be seen scuttling across the reefs.
There are several popular dive sites in Sodwana Bay, each offering a unique experience for divers of all categories:
2 Mile Reef
This is a very popular site measuring almost 2km in length by 900m in width. There is much to catch everyones interest here with many corals, caves and overhangs. Diving on this reef you will meet up with tropical fish, snappers, potato bass, marbled rays and many more fascinating fish and invertebrate species.
5 Mile Reef
5 Mile is a deeper reef and best dived by advanced divers. Here divers can investigate branching, plate and table corals amongst which reside a diversity of reef fish. You will reach up to 21m at this site, even 24m at some points. ‘The Pothole’ on the reef provides divers with an opportunity to spot the rare starry moray and red anemone.
7 Mile Reef
Another popular Sodwana Bay dive amongst the more advanced divers. The crest of the reef sits at 15m and leads to a quick drop-off which will take divers down to 24m. This rather sheltered area is the ideal home for a wide selection of sea life. This is a site not to be missed.
9 Mile Reef
This is Sodwana Bays most northerly reef and features an impressive Green Coral Tree. The site is rarely dived and thus remains somewhat untouched. Depths on this reef are from 6m down to 23m.
Quarter Mile Reef
Divers flock to this reef diving site in Sodwana during the months of January and February as this is when the ragged-tooth sharks gather here.
Stringer Reef
Stringer Reef is a relatively small reef, but is known to have the largest diversity of sea species.
Sodwana Bay is about a four hour drive from the city of Durban, so it is best to book into one of the lodges for a few days. It is best to travel to Sodwana by means of a four-wheel drive vehicle. Some of the lodges do offer a pick-up service. There is a petrol station located within the National Park as well as a shop where you can purchase various goods.
Very little can be compared to the splendor of reef diving in Sodwana Bay - nesting place of rare turtles, home to abundant sea life and place of extreme beauty.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006
South Africa truly is a world within one country! South Africa is larger than France and Spain combined and stretches from the temperate Cape to the subtropical northern regions bordering with Zimbabwe and Mozambique. In the boundaries of South Africa are some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes; canyons, wildernesses showcasing game and cliffs dropping to the ocean.
South Africa is a developed country within the confines of Africa and boasts good infrastructure and roadways; yet exudes a multi-cultural charm that is unrivaled and often misunderstood. Visit the beautiful Cape Winelands, Garden Route Area or the awe-inspiring beaches in Durban and you will soon realise that this African country is not to be forgotten. Due to the strong European influence that exists in everyday South African Culture, it has become a resting place for many emigrants seeking that patch of greener grass.
Namaqualand South Africa
Namaqualand is truly a land of wonder. Sitting dormant for nine months, a dry semi-desert along Africa’s West Coast, Namaqualand is quickly transformed into a spectacular flower carpet following the winter rains. Vast numbers of tourists are attracted to this magnificent explosion of color each year and Namaqualand flower tours are increasingly popular.
Namaqualand is made up of two sections separated by the impressive Orange River. In the north into Namibia is Greater Namaqualand, in the south is South Africa’s Little Namaqualand. From the Atlantic Ocean in the west it stretches eastwards to the quaint town of Pofadder. The vastness of this region is characterized by diversity and unique beauty. And of course there is the annual flower spectacle, with Namaqualand daisies dominating the flora. Also observable are stunning lilies, perennial herbs, aloes and many other wildflower species. When you consider the extreme conditions under which these plants survive seeing them flourishing is an even more amazing experience. Adding to the fantastic panorama are the sparkling fountains that flow through the now verdant landscape.
Namaqualand daisies are not the only organisms thriving in the gorgeous Goegab Nature Reserve and Skilpad Wildflower Reserve. Many wildlife call these areas home, from lizards and tortoises to insects and small mammals, there are many creatures to see. Namaqualand National Park is known to protect over 3000 plant species as well as numerous rare animal species such as the bat-eared fox. Also expect to see a vast number of different bird species
Several exciting routes can be traveled to discover this land of extremes. Old Copper Way was created in the 1600s and traces the path of Simon van der Stel as he journeyed here in search of copper. Along this roadway you can look back in history as you travel past old mining settlements and towns. Those who enjoy a bit of a challenge can experience Namaqualand by hiking or mountain biking through the Kammies Mountain. Options are abundant.
There are several things to consider when traveling in Namaqualand. The best time of day to view the flowers is between 11:00 and 15:00 and flower will only open in sunny weather. When driving take the time to make several stops where you can view many different flower species. There are so many different color Namaqualand daisies, you wouldn’t want to miss any. Locals are very friendly and will be glad to help you with directions as well as assisting you in finding the best flower spots. Alternatively, join a Namaqualand flower tour. Guides will be able to provide you with an abundance of information on this colorful landscape.
Touring Namaqualand during spring is a unique South African experience, one that visitors never forget.
Source : www.southafrica.com
August 25th, 2006