The Forest Elephant vs. The African Elephant

On March 12, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Spotlight: African Animals, By Sandy Salle
Forest Elephant

Image from BBC Earth News

Lurking in the African bush, you may see one—rarely two—roaming the thick central Congo rainforests of Africa in search of large fruits and vegetation. This often unnoticed giant of the towering treetops is none other than the elusive forest elephant.

Characterized as a completely separate species from the African elephant, the forest elephant is usually disguised by the dense forest surroundings it lives in. The only time to have a clear sighting of these giant mammals in nature is when they visit Dzanga Bai—a nearby natural oasis—that offers the forest elephants the minerals and nutrients they need to neutralize their stomachs from the acidity found in their diet. To reach the minerals through the muddied waters, the elephants must pump through the water using their trunks.

Because this excessively high concentration of mineral resources is only found in Dzanga Bai, there is a toll for getting your share. Each elephant that visits these mineral-rich waters must make their way into the crowd, battling off the other elephant junkies. Often times, elephants can be seen pushing others out of the way for their mineral fix.

Forest Elephant

Image from BBC Earth News

Forest Elephant Questions Answered:

  • Why does the forest elephant roam the African rainforests solo? Scientists don’t know for sure, but observations predict that although forest elephants are often independent from others, they do know where their relatives are within the forest and have large networks. This observation was made when a mother and child elephant both arrived to Dzanga Bai from different areas of the forest and, once at the oasis, greeted each other with low frequency growls and by touching trunks. After extensive observation, scientists believe Dzanga Bai is the rendezvous point for elephant families.
  • What features make the forest elephant a completely different species than the African elephant? In the past few years, scientists have recognized the forest elephant as a completely separate species from the African elephant—it’s not even considered a subspecies. The forest elephant is actually smaller than the African elephant, and not as tall. In fact, the two species differ greatly in regards to ear shape and social groups. The ears of the forest elephant are much rounder than those of the African elephant and the forest elephant has five toes on the front feet and four toes on the back feet—same as the Asian elephant. The forest elephant also lives in much smaller groups than the African elephant, making their socialization patterns and behavior different from each other.

    Forest Elephant

    Image from www.elephant.se

  • Are forest elephants targeted by poachers? Yes, even more than the African elephant. With a pinkish hue and thick density, the ivory of forest elephants is much more prized that that of the African elephant. They are often poached and hunted for their unique and rare pink ivory, which is so valuable, that the price of two tusks is around $90,000 on the black market.
  • What does the forest elephant eat? Forest elephants can often detect the location of their food based on hearing and sight. One of their favorite meals is the giant and nutrient rich omphalocarpum fruit, which is nearly-rock-hard. When this mammoth of a fruit falls from the omphalocarpum tree, it makes a huge thud and echo through the forest. Once heard, the elephants go searching for this nearly-rock-hard fruit and have the unique ability to crack it into pieces using their thick tusks.

Are you looking to experience an African safari tour? Join Hills of Africa Travel for our Soul Safari Transformation webinar this Wednesday, March 17. For more information visit our Soul Safari Transformation webinar registration page.

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Tanzania Honeymoon Safari: A Seamless Marriage of Relaxation and Adventure

On March 8, 2010, In African Honeymoon Safari, African Safari Tours, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle
African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

The formula for the ultimate destination honeymoon may be subjective, but one part of the destination honeymoon equation I think we can all agree on is the outcome: romance. But, if you’re like many honeymooners who come to us looking, not only for romance, but also for adventure and relaxation, you’ll find an African honeymoon safari exceeds your expectations for the ultimate destination honeymoon.

One of our clients’ favorite places to enjoy a romantic honeymoon safari is at Greystoke Mahale. Designed with impeccable precision and taste and a strong appreciation for nature, the camp’s six bandas were constructed with old dhow timber, authentic honeymoon safari style interiors, and an open-front layout. Each and every luxurious detail of these quaint bungalows uniquely compliments the wilderness they’re located within. Nestled within a forest rich with mysterious wildlife and a variety of curious primates, Greystoke Mahale is a lively hub for exploration.

Aside from its exceptional design and layout, Greystoke Mahale is home to incredible and rare creatures living right outside the camp, including nine species of primates, leopard, bushbuck, and bush pig. Hiking in the tropical forest, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris, and canoeing safaris are just a few spectacular ways to experience the adventure and beauty of the Tanzania wilderness.

Although adventure is a wonderful component of a honeymoon safari, there is more to it then excitement and high-energy activities. There needs to be romance, relaxation, and rejuvenation seamlessly woven in.

Here are a few ways to be adventurous and to relax with nature and connect as newlyweds at Greystoke Mahale:

African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Relaxing bush walks vs. chimpanzee trekking: Enjoy a relaxing bush walk through the forests surrounding Greystoke for a rare insight into a variety of primates, vibrant birds, and bush animals or, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, partake in one of the lodge’s chimpanzee trekking safaris. It’s important to note that the chimpanzee trekking safaris are a bit more strenuous than the bush walks and often require more elevated walking. We suggest a slow-paced walking safari for the days you want to relax and a chimpanzee trekking safari for days you feel more adventurous!

Soft golden beaches vs. the “chill out” deck: Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak in the sun during the day, or a place to enjoy a candlelit dinner for two, the beach and the “chill out” deck both offer the ultimate barefoot setting. For a more secluded experience, relax in the privacy of your own chalet as you walk upstairs to your private “chill out” deck to observe the singing birds and charming butterflies—also perfect for star gazing and eating a delicious dinner at night.

For the mornings you want to lie on the beach, step outside the front entrance of your chalet right onto the beach—merely steps from the comfort of your bed. Whether you want to take a nighttime stroll on the beach, relax by the lake during the day, sip sundowners at the bar on the rocks, or enjoy a romantic dinner for two on the beach beneath the stars, you can have it all.

African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Fishing vs. Kayaking: On days you want to experience a hint of adventure, take one of Greystoke’s kayaks on the lake for a closer look at the coastal wildlife and vegetation, or, if you’d rather drop a line in the water with a cocktail in hand, you can catch a variety of fish as the lake is home to over 250 species of fish.

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Reptile Spotlight: The Snouted Cobra

On February 26, 2010, In African Safari Safety, African Safari Tours, Spotlight: African Animals, By Sandy Salle
snouted cobra facts

Photo taken by Derek and Sarah Solomon

Growing up to six feet in length, the snouted cobra is one of Africa’s largest and most intimidating snake. Living throughout parts of Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia, this spectacular creature is often found in rocky areas, deserts, hollowed tree holes, and atop termite mounds.

As a hunter of the night, the snouted cobra becomes active at night in search of small reptiles, frogs, birds eggs, and small rodents. During the day, the cobra can be found basking in the sun atop rocks and termite holes.

Snouted Cobra Facts:

* Although calm and quiet during the day, the snouted cobra will defend itself aggressively, if threatened, with a spread-hood threat display, often accompanied by a hissing sound. This sign of defense is a warning signal and is usually followed by quick strikes.

* The snouted cobra is a venomous snake, often injecting its unlucky path-crossers with up to 250 mg of deadly venom.

* The snouted cobra was once thought to be a subspecies of the Egyptian cobra but, in fact, is not.

* Laying anywhere from 5 – 30 eggs, the female snouted cobra has a gestation duration for merely a couple of months–roughly 2 months.

snouted cobra

Photo from the ZSL London Zoo Website

Recorded by Derek and Sarah Solomon, the following mp3 is a recording of the snouted cobra as it shows off its threat-hood display and was taken during their visit to the Khamai Reptile Park in South Africa’s Limpopo Province:  Snouted Cobra Hiss-Strike. For more information contact Derek and Sarah at info@kuyimba.com.

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Soweto: South Africa’s Growing Cultural Hub

On February 24, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle
South Africa bicycle tour

AWOL Bike Tours

Famous for its role in South Africa’s rich historical heritage, the township of Soweto—located south west of Johannesburg—was once a segregated region for the black labor force in South Africa during the apartheid, and was home to a handful of famous anti-apartheid activists including Nelson Mandela.

Now, synonymous with the “new South Africa,” Soweto’s fresh notion of freedom and drive to overcome repression can be seen throughout their culture, lifestyle, modern amenities, and attractions including restaurants, museums, shops, and more.

Because Soweto is a growing cultural hub, tours throughout this township have become more and more popular in the past years. Some of Soweto’s most highly-acclaimed tours include:

The Soweto Bicycle Tour: This tour is one of the most famous in the area as it takes visitors through popular areas of Soweto where they can meet and socialize with the locals and enjoy the atmosphere of this beautiful township without the constraints of a vehicle. The tour is also Fair Trade In Tourism certified, which means that the profits from tour participants help to directly benefit the local economy, community, and environment in a humane and respectable manner.

Visitors can choose to bike ride for several hours, half of a day, or a full day. During the tour, participants enjoy a local lunch and cocktail at a shebeen (pub) where they can break from biking, cool down, and soak in the rhythm of local music.

Some of the sites visitors are taken to during the various bicycling tours include: Workers’ hostel, Meadowlands, Site of the 1976 student uprising, Hector Pieterson Memorial, Mandela’s former home, township lunch, local shebeen, Home of former ANC Women’s League’s Chair.

Below is a video illustrating what you’ll experience on a Soweto bicycle tour:

Kliptown Tours: Kliptown is an amazing place to visit via bicycle. Home to the signing of the Freedom Charter, which was signed in 1955 by anti-apartheid activists, Kliptown holds a primary place in South African history. Today, Kliptown still struggles from lack of water, electricity, and housing, but efforts to sustain the local community and bring joy into the lives of the locals is an ongoing venture. One of the most successful organizations in the area is the Soweto Kliptown Youth (SKY), which is working hard to bring happiness to the youth of Kliptown and Soweto by exposing local youths to theater, dance, education, and the arts.

South Africa bicycle tourThe bicycle tour through Kliptown is a highly-rewarding experience for participants, as they are immersed in the local culture and learn from locals about their history and their strives for a new South Africa. The tour is also offered via vehicle.

City Tour: As an excellent way to experience Johannesburg, the city tour brings visitors to museums, historic sites, local markets, cafes, restaurants, and attractions. Specifically, participants are exposed to the vibrant culture of Johannesburg in Newtown, and visit MuseumAfrica, Constitutional Hill (former prison for political activists), and the Carlton Panorama—a place where visitors can see a panoramic view of the city of Johannesburg. 

Other Off-The-Beaten Path Tours and Experiences: For those who want to discover various elements of Soweto culture, they can visit a local sangoma (traditional healer), visit a local church, witness community projects, visit local schools, and experience Soweto at night.

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Tango-Tensity’s Big 5 and Tango: The Ultimate Romantic African Retreat

On February 22, 2010, In African Honeymoon Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Africa safari tourImagine dancing to the lively rhythms of Tango music as the sunset casts a mesmerizing shade of orange, yellow, and red onto the vast plains of Africa. To your right, an elephant enjoys a drink at a nearby watering hole and impalas sip gracefully side-by-side from the water’s edge. This may appear to be a fantasy, but I assure you, it’s not.

Bringing to life this exotic fairy tale is Tango-Tensity, a company specializing in Tango inspired trips to Africa and South America. Their newest South African safari trip, Big 5 and Tango, immerses travelers into the African bush, while incorporating Tango workshops into the many adventures of the day.

Leading the Tango workshops is the son of Carlos Copello, internationally acclaimed Argentine Tango master and founder of Escuela Carlos Copello dance academy, Maxi Copello. Renowned for his brilliant choreography and authentic dance skills, Maxi Copello and his partner, Nadia Johnson, seamlessly integrate this timeless dance style into the spirit of the African bush. To be taught and guided by Maxi Copello is a rare and highly-rewarding experience to be had.

Africa safari tours

When and where does the Big 5 and Tango take place?

The Big 5 and Tango safari trip takes place in South Africa from May 3 – May 9, 2010. Guests will stay at Madikwe Game Reserve’s 5-Star accommodation, Tau Safari Lodge, where they’ll experience everything from an extremely luxurious and comfortable stay, to adventures in the African bush and sensual dancing beneath the stars.

Africa safari toursWhat is on the itinerary?

Filled with adventurous activities, exceptional dance workshops, and relaxation time, the Big 5 and Tango itinerary incorporates everything you need for an unforgettable African safari vacation.

The first day you arrive to South Africa’s OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a Tango-Tensity team member. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day guided city tour of Johannesburg. Afterward, a relaxing and delectable dinner will be served with a special welcome from Tango maestros Maxi Copello and Nadia Johnson from Buenos Aires.

The following day you will be escorted to the Madikwe Game Reserve where, upon arrival, you will be greeted with a lunch followed by an exciting game drive through the surrounding area.

For each of the following days, you will experience a morning game drive, followed by a delicious breakfast, as well as three hours of morning Tango, one and half hours of afternoon Tango, a night drive, and a romantic dinner beneath the stars.

While on your safari tours, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of Africa’s most riveting game including the Big 5 and more than 20 other species of large animals. In addition to the large game, smaller game as well as reptiles, birds, and amphibians are often spotted and provide an eclectic mix of visual pleasures.

When you’re not on your game drive, you’ll be enjoying the fresh Argentine sounds of the Tango. Over the course of your South African safari trip, you’ll learn a variety of techniques from Maxi and Nadia including prolixity, walking, ochos, connection, double-bit, sequences, rhythm, embellishments, lead, and more.

On May 8, the day before your departure home, you’ll check out of Tau Safari Lodge after an early morning game drive and breakfast, at which time, you’ll be escorted back to Johannesburg. During the afternoon, Maxi and Nadia will be available for private lessons.

Do I need experience in the Tango?

Whether you’re new to the Tango or a Tango connoisseur, Big 5 and Tango can be enjoyed by all couples alike. But it is important to note that each day incorporates roughly three hours of Tango dancing into the schedule. So be prepared for some exercise and exciting dance routines.

For more on the Big 5 and Tango, visit Tango-Tensity’s website.

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The Nile Crocodile: A Fierce And Unique Predator

On February 17, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Spotlight: African Animals, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

nile crocodile

Photo Taken From http://animals.nationalgeographic.com

by Mark Homann, certified safari guide

The Nile crocodile is a top-of-the-line predator with very few predators of its own. Although the largest record found of the Nile crocodile was in Lake Victoria, Tanzania, measuring 21 ft. in length and weighing 2400 lbs, it’s rare to find these creatures over 16 ft. in length. A crocodile this large must have been very old—likely over 100 years.

They are sexually dimorphic animals, meaning that the male is 30% smaller than the female. One of the advantages to this is that it allows the female to lay more eggs—up to 80 at times.

Unlike other crocodiles the Nile crocodile doesn’t incubate their eggs in rotting vegetation. Rather, they burry them near water in holes dug about 20 in. deep. The gender of the offspring is determined by the temperature in the nest. If the temperature reaches below 89 degrees Fahrenheit, the egg will yield a male and if the nest reaches above 94 degrees Fahrenheit, the egg will yield a female. Although the mother doesn’t incubate the eggs, she does stay close by to guard them from predators, and will continue to protect them for the first two years of their life.

Nile CrocodileThe anatomy of the crocodile makes them a ferocious predator. They are capable of feeding on animals as large as the Cape buffalo and, similar to birds, they have a 4-chambered heart that allows for highly oxygenated blood to pass through, enabling them to stay under water for up to two hours in extreme circumstances.

Their exothermic or cold-blooded metabolism allows them to go for very long periods of time without food. In fact, in the Mara river of Kenya, crocodiles are thought to eat once a year when the wildebeest migration comes through. When crocodiles do eat, they can eat half their body weight in one meal.

During the 1960s, the Nile crocodile faced extinction in many areas of Africa due to hunting and poaching for their skins. But, with the development of a sustainable crocodile farming industry, their numbers have thrived. So, be careful next time you dangle your toes in the water.

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The Apartheid Museum: South Africa’s Story—From Oppression to Freedom

On February 15, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Screen Grab Taken From www.apartheidmuseum.org/

Screen Grab Taken From www.apartheidmuseum.org/

Opening its doors in 2001, The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa is a place where visitors, as well as locals, can go to discover what really happened during the tyrannical time of apartheid in South African history. Photos, installations, exhibitions, artifacts, and films make up the core of this museum and provide each visitor with a true understanding of the effects apartheid had on South Africa—from the very beginning to the end.

A brief historical background: When the all-white National Party was elected into South African government in 1946, their apartheid policy was put into effect. Essentially, apartheid worked to make 20 million South African citizens second class. Not only were these citizens humiliated by their newly appointed “ranking” in society, they were also abused and put to work. The apartheid laws were built from a racial classification foundation that grouped people into one of four different groups. These groups were native, colored, Asian, or white. Those who were classified as second class were controlled by the government in every aspect of their life, including social, economic, and property restrictions.

In 1994, after nearly 50 years of resilience and bravery, South Africans received their freedom when Nelson Mandela—once a prisoner—became president.

Apartheid Museum

What you’ll experience at The Apartheid Museum: As you first enter the grounds of The Apartheid Museum, the first thing you’ll see is The Pillars of the Constitution. These pillars, which stand for South Africa’s recent historical freedom, spotlight the seven core values sewn throughout South Africa’s new constitution. These values are: democracy, equality, reconciliation, diversity, responsibility, respect, and freedom. Drafted between 1994 and 1996, the constitution was created by South Africa’s first completely democratic parliament and ensures complete equality for all.

Once past the sprawling courtyards of the museum, you’ll enter the museum in the appropriate entrance, based on your race group. This subjective classification is a way to briefly immerse visitors into the effects apartheid had on emotions.

As you walk through the entrance, you’ll see walls lined with authentic identity documents that were used during apartheid to classify each person. Continuing through the museum, you will see 22 exhibits, which, combined, take you through an epic story of oppression, bravery, rebellion, and freedom.

Apartheid MuseumWhat you’ll take with you from The Apartheid Museum:Because South Africa’s liberation from a tyrant government was so recent, it’s resonance in the hearts of citizens is still palpable and strong, and is reflected throughout the entire museum. When you witness the combination of each vehicle of expression throughout the museum, you will see the emotional effects this time in history had on South Africans, and leave with the hope and conviction that the fall of apartheid is the beginning to a new South Africa.

Additional Information: The Apartheid Museum offers tours for visitors, but must be booked in advance. To view more information on the museum, as well as its admission fees and hours of operation, visit their website at http://www.apartheidmuseum.org/.

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Three Tips to Discovering Africa’s Most Spectacular Sights Above

On February 12, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Tours, Spotlight: African Animals, By Sandy Salle

Bird Watching in Africa

Bird Watching in Africa

Bird Watching In Africa

Bird Watching In Africa

A signature tip we offer to those taking a trip to Africa for the first time: “Always be open and aware of your surroundings because some of the most spectacular animals and visions are hidden in plain sight.”

One of the best places to look for animals and observe Africa’s natural beauty is right above your head. With a variety of exotic birds and animals sitting in the treetops, it can be extremely easy to drive or walk right past them.

Here are three tips to ensure you see everything there is to see in the African treetops and sky while on your African family safari or honeymoon safari:

1. Listen:

It’s easy to allow the cheerful symphony of bird songs to act as your safari background music, but it’s essential to actively listen to the nearby sounds and songs of nature if you want to find as many birds as possible. If you don’t truly listen to your surroundings, you may miss out on observing an unusual array of hundreds of bird species–some of the most riveting visions in Africa.

If you choose to go on a bird watching safari or tour, it’s important to keep in mind that bird watching requires more than your eyes. Stop to listen to the sounds of the bush and allow your eyes to follow what you hear. You may find that your ears do most of the work when trying to detect the location of birds.

Because many countries in Africa contain upwards of 500 species of birds each, birds surround you at almost every moment while you’re on an African safari tour. Also, birds can be seen from the comfort of your private veranda or even perched on your veranda.

So, if you’re a bird watching fanatic, you’ll find that Africa is your ultimate paradise.

Africa safari tour

Africa safari tour

2. Keep your eyes and head moving:

Remaining focused on the area straight in front of you will only yield a few magnificent sights. The key to enhancing your safari experience is to observe your surroundings in panoramic fashion. Move your eyes and head slowly, surveying the land to your left, to your right, and behind you. Tilt your head upwards for a look into the lush treetops and branches. You may be surprised to find some of Africa’s most wonderful creatures observing you from above. From leopards to monkeys, and birds to reptiles, African trees hold many exotic creatures that can only be seen through attentive observation and surveying.

3. Find relaxation in the velvety night sky:

One of the best times to look above while on your Africa safari vacation is during the night. When the sun sets on the horizon and a cool, dark blanket covers the sky, an incredible display of brilliant stars can be seen from your private veranda or the comfort of a romantic dinner for two outside. It’s as if the night sky comes to life. And, instead of seeing individual constellations, the whole sky seems to be filled with stars–incomparable to any other place on earth.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Book an African Safari Vacation with a Specialist

On February 10, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Honeymoon Safari, African Safari Tours, African Safari Vacation, By Sandy Salle

This past week, I was reading a blog written by a good friend in the safari industry.  Do you want to hyperlink and share this blog?  One of the comments on his blog was that travel agents and tour operators are going to become a thing of the past.  This got me thinking.  One of the reasons why I plan African Safari Vacations is because I love what I do.  Isn’t this what it’s all about?  Shouldn’t we all being doing something that we love and are passionate about?  I love planning trips to Africa for our clients. I feel very fortunate to be able to spend my days dreaming up African vacations that will change people’s lives.

Sandy on safari in Madikwe

Sandy on safari in Madikwe

Why do I do this and why do clients come to me to do this?  We in the travel industry are facing lots of consumers scouring the internet looking for deals, when to go on vacation, where to go, how long etc?  So the question begs …. why should you book your vacation with a specialist?  It shouldn’t only be because I love what I do.  I have spent the past week thinking about this question and the comments posted on my friend’s blog.  If you are in the travel industry, I would love to hear your feedback, but in the meantime I’ve come up with some answers.

Here are 10 reasons travelers should book with a specialist.

1. Clients come to a travel agent or tour operator for their expertise, knowledge and advice. Most travel agents have a specialty or niche.  At Hills of Africa we have three specialists who have been in the industry working as guides, working at hotels and working in the travel industry for over 15 years.  We spend large amounts of time investing in ourselves to make sure we know our product.  In my case I take 2-3 three-week trips to Africa every year to educate myself on my product and the destinations I promote.  I never recommend a product to a client that I have never visited.  It is important for me to be able to talk with my clients about the different types of accommodation, the game viewing experience, the cuisine, the quality of guides, even their names.

2.  More for your money. If you are scouring the internet for the best deals, you might not come up with the best deal.  Those of us in the industry are kept up to date on deals, for example some properties offer a “stay for 3, pay for 2″ deal, or even a combination of staying at three different properties with a “stay for 9, pay for 6″.  As they say, the lowest price isn’t always the best deal, travel agents are aware of the deals that are only available to the travel agent trade.

Surprises for our clients

Surprises for our clients

3.  Personal Service. Even if you are not going for a special occasion, it is worth noting that travel agents and tour operators take the time to get to know you; they find out what your favorite drink is, what type of chocolate you like, what your favorite flower is.  Now I might be giving away trade secrets here, but how surprising and special would it be to receive a bottle of your favorite bubbly with a welcome note in your room on arrival, or a surprise “massage for two” after a long flight from your travel agent.  We enjoy spoiling you.

4.  Preparing you for your Trip. We like to prepare you for your trip from the moment you leave home to the moment you return.  You are our responsibility once you get on that airplane, and so it is important for us to make sure you are well prepared.  At Hills of Africa, we send you a Question and Answer document which answers every question you might have about an African safari vacation, from how long your passport needs to be valid after entering the country to what type of inoculations and medicine you might need for Africa, to whether or not you should take a hairdryer with you.  We also prepare destination guides for the countries you will be visiting which will include restaurants (and of course we know which table to book!), tours, bank hours, markets worth visiting.  Travel agents leave no details out and our mission is to help prepare you for your vacation so that you will be able to enjoy yourselves without worry or hassle.

A friendly face welcoming you

A friendly face welcoming you

5. We are there to help you when something goes wrong. Every step of the way, travel agents are with you.  Because we know your itinerary, we will be there to help you when something goes wrong.  If your flight happens to be canceled or delayed we are there to help ensure that you get on the next available flight.  Not only that, because we have staff on the ground in the countries that you will be visiting, our staff will know that you have been delayed.  They will be waiting for you, you won’t have to go find a tax and make your own way to your destination. We will have informed the hotel or safari camp that you are staying at, and on your arrival you’ll have your favorite beverage ready for you (because we have taken the time to get to know you and your preferences!) with a warm and inviting smile.  Having a travel agent working with you, can save you hundreds of hours and money when something goes wrong.

Celebrating after a soccer match in the local community

Celebrating after a soccer match in the local community

6.  Custom designing your vacation of a lifetime. I think most travel agents and tour operators are like us at Hills of Africa Travel.  When a client comes to us with a request we spent a lot of time designing their itinerary to meet their travel needs and desires.  I love the fact that we are small, we are proud of it too.  As a small tour operator we don’t have to worry about volume discounts with specific properties and then having to push clients to those properties to meet contractual obligations.  What we take pride in is actually listening to our clients, incorporating everything they desire and then presenting them with an itinerary that matches exactly what they are looking for in terms of budget, time frame and travel tastes.  This could be something like a family wanting to be more involved in the community, so arranging a soccer match in the local village they will be visiting, or arranging a surprise dinner in the African bush, or volunteering for a day in a local community to prepare a field for vegetable gardening.  All travel agents and tour operators are passionate about their work, but we are even more passionate about our clients’ experiences.

Giving back

Giving back

7.  Giving Back. Travel agents have a desire to give back.  At Hills of Africa Travel our mission is “changing lives one journey at a time, every time”.  What I mean by this, is that it is our intention for you to have a life changing journey to Africa by being mesmerized by it’s beauty, captivated by its animals and your hearts warmed by the smiles of the people you will meet.  It is also so that the people of Africa to get to know you and their lives are changed forever by having been given the chance of getting to know you and learning about your family, your history and your culture. Now I know that everyone has the right intention to do good, but is it going to the right place?  We make sure that your travel dollars go into the right hands, by choosing travel providers who make a difference, who are passionate about Fair Trade and equality for their staff and their families and who are willing to make a difference.

8.  Booking with a travel agent, saves you bank fees! When you book your travel with a travel agent, you are only paying one bill.  We organize your itinerary to include someone to meet you as you exit the airplane, transfers, hotel and safari accommodation, tours, restaurant bookings.  If you were to organize this yourself you would have to pay numerous companies (let alone keep track of all the confirmation numbers, dates, times, places, etc), we take this hassle away from you and pay all of these suppliers on your behalf.  With African bookings as well, the travel agent takes the exchange currency risk, not you.

Relaxing at Azura in Mozambique

Relaxing at Azura in Mozambique

9.  More time for you. A travel agent can save you countless hours of scouring the internet, when you could be making money doing your own job.  A travel agent has many more avenues to search from, we know our business well and we take pride in what we offer to you.  We spend a lot of time researching and making sure that each transfer is with a trusted agent, each hotel room is in perfect condition, your flights have you in your preferred seating.  We have taken the time to be the very best agents by investing in our education and knowledge so that you don’t have to spend your time doing planning a vacation when you could be spending quality time with loved ones, or making money in your own day job.

10.  We think of you. Travel agents have the knowledge, expertise and the “in” on what you need to do to plan your vacation, what you need to do make your dream trip a reality and not just a dream.  We make sure that you are looked after from the time you leave home to the time you return.  All the worry and stress of having to sort out the details are taken away from you, leaving you with the opportunity of being able to enjoy every single treasured moment of your vacation.

If you are planning a dream vacation will you trust your vacation of a lifetime to a travel agent?  Travel agents, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts and what actions you take to make your clients’ dream vacations a reality.

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Calabash Tours: Travel off the Beaten Path in the Garden Route’s Port Elizabeth

On February 8, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Synonymous with gorgeous weather, Port Elizabeth in South Africa’s Garden Route is the best place to visit for enjoying ocean and beach related activities such as sun bathing, sailing, scuba diving, and boating, as well as fine dining, shopping, and more. In addition, Port Elizabeth is also famous for its close-proximity to local townships and private game reserves.

With its ideal location in the Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is a short drive to a variety of game reserves including Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Addo Elephant Park, and a handful of other smaller reserves where visitors can view a wide spectrum of diverse fauna and flora as well as the Big Five.

Port Elizabeth is also known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. As the second oldest city in South Africa, Port Elizabeth is celebrate for its Xhosa heritage and a wide spectrum of historical landmarks such as the Historic Donkin Heritage Trail, Old Hill, old-world architecture, and stunning parks comprised of intricate gardens and gorgeous green fields.

Although Port Elizabeth is famous for its beauty and abundance of activities, some argue that nothing compares to visiting a local township where you can interact with locals, learn about their everyday lifestyles, and immerse yourself in an enlightening cultural experience.

For those looking to travel off the beaten path, a tour with Calabash Tours is the perfect way to open your eyes to hidden areas you would have never seen on your own. What separates Calabash Tours from other tour providers is their superior expertise and knowledge of the area as well as their ability to open your eyes to both urban and rural cultures. Whether you’re looking to take a safari tour through a nearby game reserve or tour a local Xhosa township, Calabash Tours brings you up-close to it all.

But Calabash Tours offers more than exceptional tours through Port Elizabeth’s townships and adjacent game reserves. As a Fair Trade In Tourism (FTTSA) certified touring company, Calabash Tours gives back to the local economy, communities, and school systems, and works to sustain the local environment to ensure a thriving wilderness.

Select from a variety of excellent Calabash Tours, including . . .

The Addo Day Tour:

Home to the largest population of elephants on the planet, Addo Elephant Park is the perfect place to spend a day while visiting Port Elizabeth. During your tour through Addo Elephant Park you’ll see mother elephants tending to their young, as well as antelopes, zebras, lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, and more. As you observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, Calabash Tours’ exceptional guides will provide you with their rich knowledge on the behavior and lifestyle of these animals.

The Real City Tour:

Calabash Tours provides you with a deep insight into the local villages and people as you venture to the nearby townships of Kwazakhele, Zwide, and New Brighton. During this visit, you’ll discover what it was like for South Africans during the apartheid and how their social history has shaped their existence today. You’ll also travel down one of the main shopping streets where street vendors sell their products and works of art, visit a local community-run children’s school (where some of the funds from your tour fee goes to), and tour through Red

Location—the oldest township in South Africa.

During your trip to the local townships, you’ll partake in one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime as you witness the excitement and eagerness of the locals to share with you their lives and history. Throughout the entire tour you will learn about the history of Port Elizabeth as you interact with the guides and locals. Because you are not traveling in a closed vehicle, you have the rare opportunity to interact with the locals without the barriers of a car or bus window.

Shebeen Tours:

If you love the social atmosphere of a pub than you’ll absolutely love this tour. Shebeens, which were previously outlawed, are places where the local community gets together for drinks, music, and dancing. The shebeen is a way for locals to socialize and enjoy a drink while listening to live music. On this tour, you’ll experience the entertaining atmosphere of a variety of shebeens and have the opportunity to interact with the local Xhosa people, and enjoy a traditional dinner and drinks!

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