Need Travel Advice: Africa
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After further debating my travel choices for late January/early February, I've been considering Africa. I have always wanted to go there ever since I have been a little girl fascinated with the big cats and wildlife of Africa. Does anyone have any advice, or recomendations for travel in Africa? I'd really like to do some type of safari, and really take in the scenery (espeically Victoria Falls). Thanks! |
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Africa-ka-ka-ka! Good choice...Africa is, in my humble opinion, the most exciting continent to travel to--all you can handle adventure.
I have been to East Africa a few times, the last of which, I spent 5 months working at some African primary schools with the most amazing kids and hitchhiking to every corner of Kenya. Here is the highlight reel:
1) Mt Kenya: Climb it. You can find a cheap guide in the little town of Nainyuki, which sits in the foothills, and can be reached by bus or "Peugeot taxi" from Nairobi. Mt Kenya is an amazing mountain and eco-system. Many of the plants and animals on the mountain don't exist anywhere else in the world. You can get to Pt Lenana without gear, by just trekking. The true summit can only be reached with climbing gear.
2) Lake Turkana: This is a super-remote place in the north. The lake is huge and is the most densely populated body of water in the country for salt water crocs. The landscape is dry and barren and this spectacular area is home to the wildest people I've ever encountered in my life.
3) Lamu: You should explore the whole of the Kenya coast, but Lamu was my favorite. It's not easy to get to but the Islamic culture, rich history and plentiful adventure possibilities make it time well spent. You can rent a Dow boat and explore smaller islands, check out the mangrove swamps or hire a boat for deep sea fishing. Also in Kenya, check out Kilifi, Malindi and the coast to the south of Mombasa (just across the ferry canal). The least time shoule be spent in big cities like Mombasa and Nairobi as there is less to see and they are a lot more dangerous.
4) Lewa Downs: Great little park only a couple km from the foot of Mt Kenya. The have several well-protected Black Rhino.
Tanzania:
5) Mt Kilimanjaro: Climb it too! Due to global warming, the glaciers on the top will only only be around for a couple more years. Don't get ripped off by an expensive outfitter. Do it with a friend and carry your own gear. Other than the final day, the trek is like walking up a long golf course ;)
6) Ngororo Crater and the Serengeti: AMAZING wildlife, concentrated (but crowds of tourists too)..
7) Zanzibar: Regretfully never made it but I've only heard good things.
Also check out the Mara and the dozens of other amazing parks...the list could go on forever.
****Most importantly, wherever you go, make sure you spend time with the AFRICANS! For me, the people are more amazing than the animals, mountains and sunsets, combined. You will fall in love with Africa on your first visit :)