On an African safari tour, many travelers find themselves drawn to primates. That’s partly because humans are considered primates and animals in this order often remind us (in funny, poignant, and surprising ways) of ourselves.

So what should you look for during your next trip to Africa? Keep your eyes peeled for these six primates, which compose most of the major primate groups (there are 51 species total!).

Gorilla: Found in tropical and subtropical African forests, gorillas are the largest non-extinct primate species. Gorillas are social animals, and tend to live in troops, which generally consist of one adult male (also called a “silverback”) and multiple females and young gorillas. Some troops include more than one male. Most closely related to chimpanzees and humans, gorillas are vegetarians and communicate through grunts, barks, and deeply resonant burps.

Chimpanzee: The two types of chimpanzees, the common chimpanzee and the bonobo, are the closest living relatives to humans. Like humans, chimps live in large social groups (“communities”) composed of several males and females. Within these groups, a hierarchy of power develops, with one alpha male atop the order and many lesser power ranks below him. The alpha male is not always the biggest or strongest, but instead forges strategic alliances with others who help him maintain his power. Sound familiar?

Black-and-White Colobus: This type of monkey lives in dense African forests, where it has adapted to occupy places that other primates cannot. Colobuses play an important role in spreading seeds throughout their habitats (through their digestive tracts and the act of eating), but are currently threatened by bushmeat hunting. While bushmeat hunting (that is, the hunting of wild game, or animals that live in the “bush”) threatens a number of wild species, many Africans living at the subsistence level rely on such food to live.

Vervet Monkey: Native to southeastern African countries (including Tanzania, Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa), the vervet monkey is small and plain in color (mostly black, white, and gray). One of the vervet’s most fascinating attributes is its warning calls—vervets warn of predators with predator-specific vocalizations. In some situations, mother vervets have been observed chastising their young for giving the wrong warning call!

Baboons: Social animals, baboons live in troops that can range from five to 250 members. A variety of mating and friendship behaviors might take place, but among one of the most interesting is that some male baboons will grab babies during fights to protect themselves.

Galago: Also known as a “bush baby,” this small primate species is nocturnal and known for its unusually strong jumping abilities. While galagos tend to live in groups, these groups usually consist of only males or females. A single male often mates with all the females in an area, and males who have not established territory for themselves might live in “bachelor” groups.

When you’re planning your African safari vacation, be sure to schedule time to observe these amazing, highly developed animals in their natural habitats!

What’s your favorite African primate?

As one of Africa’s most unique cultures, the Samburu people are often recognized for their riveting beauty and decorative appearance. Samburu, which translates to mean “butterflies,” was given to the Samburu tribe by other tribes because of their layers and layers of bead-covered jewelry, fascinating face painting, and colorful dress.

The Samburu’s cloth dressing is called shukkas, which is accented with bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and colorful beads. Although the women make the jewelry, both men and women wear these gorgeous, decorative pieces.

Born from the Plains Nilotic movement in the Sudan, the Samburu tribe speaks a dialect of the Maa (Nilotic) language, which is a language spoken in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of the Sudan. This derived dialect is now called the Samburu language.

Today, the Samburu tribe’s settlement spans nearly 80,000 square miles, which the tribe moves throughout in search of food and water for their cattle, goats, and camels. As nomadic-pastoralists, the Samburu tribe lives in groups of five to ten families and does not settle in one particular area for a long period of time. This mobile nature makes it difficult to build permanent residency; therefore, their huts are built from mud, hide, and grass, and are supported by large rods. This settlement of huts is referred to as manyattas.

The Samburu’s nomadic nature also limits their dietary staples, which predominantly consists of gathered roots and vegetables, and a mixture of milk and cow blood. Meat is only eaten on special occasions.

Below are several highlights from the Samburu culture:

The Role of Men and Women

With definitive gender roles, the Samburu tribe separates men and women in all aspects of their lifestyle. Traditionally, men are responsible for protecting their tribe and defending their cattle. While the men act as warriors and cattle care-givers, the women gather vegetables and roots from the area for their families. The women also cook, milk the cows, gather water, tend to the huts, and raise the children.

Children

At a young age, the boys of the Samburu are taught to hunt and raise cattle and are instilled with a warrior mindset. Their rite of passage into manhood involves a circumcision ritual, which occurs in their early teen years and involves the attendance of the entire village.

Once circumcised, the young man enters the stages of becoming a warrior and lives with the other adult males of the village. He then grows out his hair, braids it, and dyes it with red ocher, until he reaches his early twenties.

The young girls of the village help their mothers with chores and gathering food, and they too must pass through a rite of passage to womanhood.

Each of the Samburu girls is given necklaces by the young warriors and, eventually, the necklaces accumulate to create a large, thick necklace. During this beading stage, the young females hope to be given necklaces by their most admired warrior. By the age of 16, women should have enough necklaces to support the structure of their neck. This symbolizes that they are ready for marriage.

When a young man and woman marry, there is a series of elaborate rituals including an intense final ritual that involves the killing of a bull that enters the hut that is guarded by the bride’s mother. There is also much importance placed on the groom’s gifts to the family, which include two goatskins, two copper earrings, a container of milk, and a sheep. As a dowry, the male provides the bride’s family with cattle and sheep.

Samburu men often marry numerous times, especially if they are wealthy. Each of his wives will have her own hut with her children and these huts will form a circle.

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

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.

Photo of Tigerfish from Fisheastafrica.com

When planning a trip to Africa there’s a variety of factors to consider. But one of the most important things to reflect on is the activities you wish to take part in while on your African safari vacation. Most likely, you can find an African safari tour or activity in the region that is related to your favorite past time or interests.

Fishing is one such activity that can be enjoyed throughout many regions and coastlines of Africa. Whether your interest lies in deep sea fishing or freshwater fishing, Africa has it all. But an important question to ask yourself before choosing your fishing excursion is, “What type of experience do I wish to have?” Freshwater fishing is a completely different experience from deep sea fishing as you have the opportunity to observe large land game and other lake dwelling creatures such as a wide variety of birds, hippos, and crocodiles as you enjoy an exciting day of fishing.

Deep sea fishing, on the other hand, typically consists of larger and stronger fish depending on the time of year you choose to go out, and the fishing line also reaches depths of over 1,000 ft.

Below are details and highlights from deep sea fishing and freshwater fishing:

Deep Sea Fishing in Africa

Some of the best African coastlines to go deep sea fishing off of are Kenya, Tanzania, and the Mozambique Channel. Typically, October through March yield the most catch, which often consist of a variety of marlin species, wahoo, kingfish, yellowfin tuna, and swordfish. But often, sailfish are caught the most as they are found in the area year round.

Night fishing tours also yield a wide variety of big game fish. Arguably the greatest fighter and possibly the most popular fish caught during the night is the broadbill swordfish. The broadbill swordfish’s exhilarating fight is often a highlight among participants on a deep sea fishing excursion.

Below is a video from BBC Planet Earth of sailfish as they’re on the hunt:

Freshwater Fishing in Africa

Weighing in at an average of 10 – 25 lbs., the tigerfish is arguably the most popular freshwater fish to catch in the world. For most anglers, the tigerfish is as worthy of an opponent as its name may lead you to believe. With an immediate and aggressive strike, this fish is characterized by its velocity and fight, and takes the chart as the top freshwater sporting fish in Africa. And the tigerfish’s larger cousin, the goliath tigerfish, can reach staggering weights of up to 100 lbs but is much harder to catch.

Some of the best places to fish for tigerfish include Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, and Zimbabwe’s Zambezi River and Mana Pools National Park.

Coming in at twice the weight of the goliath tigerfish is the Nile Perch. This 200 lb. highly-pursued big game fish is usually caught using 40 lb. tests and large crankbaits and is the largest freshwater fish found throughout Africa. These exceptionally large fish can be found Lake Victoria, Lake Turkana, Lake Tanganyika, and Uganda.

Africa’s fourth longest river rises quietly in the northern border regions of Zambia and the Congo. The stream quickly grows into a mighty river, essential to vast animal and human populations. The Zambezi brings water to Zambia, Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. The water flows more than 2,200 miles from a basin that is over 500,000 square miles in size to the Indian Ocean.

The Zambezi has a long history with ancient African empires, explorers, hunters, and missionaries. The heat combined with the presents of a form of sleeping sickness that affects livestock prevented much human habitation along its banks and, as a result, some of Africa’s finest wildlife areas remain intact today as they have been for thousands of years. The few humans that have lived in the Zambezi valley are fascinating. They’ve changed very little and time spent with them is a humbling experience.

Canoeing the Zambezi River

The Valley’s history is, of course, a lot older than the animals and people. Millions of years ago most of the water from the present-day upper Zambezi flowed down through Botswana and into the Limpopo to the Ocean. Two to four million years ago seismic tilting raised the land from Southern Zimbabwe across Southern and Central Botswana, effectively damming these waters and creating a super lake. All this water backed up and while looking for a new way to the ocean, created a lake thought to have been over 50,000 square miles.

Eventually the water found a line of weakness in the fault lines in the basalt rocks that form the modern day Victoria Falls. And this water found its way down the modern day Zambezi Valley and back to the Indian Ocean–a process known as river capture. The remnants of this lake can still be seen today in the massive saltpans of the Makgadikgadi in Botswana.

The Zambezi Valley below Victoria Falls was formed as a fault valley as the Zambezi escarpment lifted up on either side with the valley floor lowering.  The predominate rock of the middle and lower valley is a metamorphosed sandstone.  Parts of Kariba have produced dinosaur fossils and even fossilized footprints in the lower valley.

Wild Dog near Jeki Airstrip, Lower Zambezi National Park

Today, the Zambezi is one of the most important water sources in the region, as well as a largely untapped resource for tourism. Governments and NGOs are working on plans to create massive Tran frontier parks that span countries to better manage the wildlife and encourage tourism.  

All very exciting, but if you are like me and simply want to canoe in the path of old explorers, track elephant on foot, catch the mighty tiger fish and listen to the roar of a lion over the dying embers of your campfire, then the Zambezi will be home to you.

Adult and young gabar goshawk

Africa has many different types of birds of prey; each species fills a different niche in the diverse habitats. The Gabar Goshawk is a very interesting member of these avian predators. Living in woodlands and thorn scrub the Gabar has a range across much of Africa. Feeding on small mammals, snakes and songbirds, the Gabar is a very aggressive hunter flushing its prey and chasing it aggressively through the scrub and undergrowth.

The birds pair for life and build a nest is typically made from thin twigs and positioned in a vertical fork in the crown of a thorny tree. To supplement the nest, the gabar goshawk is known to collect social spiders on their webs, which are then incorporated into the nest. The function of this unusual practice is unclear but the subsequent webs that spread over the nest probably act as camouflage, whilst the spiders may consume arthropods that otherwise would parasitize the chicks. The female usually lays two eggs, which are incubated for a little over a month before hatching.

Typical of most raptors the male is smaller than the female. This size differences allows the birds to take advantage of a wider range of prey types, the larger female being stronger and heavier and the smaller male being faster and lighter. The female take the role as the larger bird as her size assists her to carry the eggs and defend the nest while the male is out hunting.

Arguably the world’s deadliest snake, the black mamba has been the focal point of many exaggerated African legends, making its name feared around the world. Known for its cunning speed, aggressive behavior, and ability to inject potent venom into its prey, the black mamba is not something you’d want to provoke.

Found across the African savannahs and in rocky areas of southern and eastern Africa, the black mamba is a popular snake to witness on an African safari tour. Although they are dangerous, you are extremely safe within your vehicle with your highly knowledgeable and certified guide.

Here are the real facts behind the black mamba:

• The black mamba is actually grey, but gets its name for the blackish-bluish color inside of its mouth that is displayed during aggression.
• Reaching up to 14 ft. (4.3 m) in length, the black mamba is Africa’s longest venomous snake.

• Black mambas are difficult to out-run as they’re one of the fastest snakes in the world—they can reach speeds up to 12 mph to be exact. And surprisingly, they do not use this incredible gift for speed to attack their prey. Instead, they use it to escape threats.
• Left untreated, the black mamba’s venom has a fatality rate of 100%.
• The black mamba is so strong that it can raise its 1/3 of its body off of the ground.
• A black mamba will spend hours on a branch waiting for its prey, which are usually reptiles, amphibians, and rodents.
• Using its long black tongue to smell, the black mamba will frequently display its tongue when it senses something approaching.
• Females can lay up to 17 eggs in a nest beneath the ground or in a hollowed tree hole and they will hatch in approximately three months.     

For a closer look at the black mamba and research being performed on it, view this fascinating PBS video.

Known for its exceptional walking safaris and unspoiled wilderness, South Luangwa in Zambia is the premier destination for travelers looking for a new and unique perspective on Africa’s mesmerizing wildlife. Walking safaris allow you to view the world from the same perspective as the animals, which means you are able to get closer to nature than ever before. Even though you are closer with nature and its creatures on a walking safari, our expert guides ensure travelers are 100 percent safe on their excursion.

Differing greatly from game drives, walking safaris boast feelings of exploration, discovery, and intense curiosity. Walking safaris focus on the exploration of the details of nature and the natural processes of Africa’s multiple eco-systems. With so much more to see than large game, walking safaris are celebrated for their element of surprise, plethora of discoveries, and their ability to stimulate all the senses. Safari vehicles also don’t have the same ability as walking safaris to bring you up close and personal to nature.

As you quietly search and listen for clues to the hiding spots of lions and cheetahs, the sound of the safari vehicle engine is nowhere to be heard, just the pure sounds of Africa’s bush. Walking safaris’ abilities to open your ears to the crisp sounds of nature cannot be matched by any other African safari tour.

In order to find the stealth creatures of Africa, such as the lion and cheetah, you must first hone in on all of your senses. The sounds of snapping twigs, whistling birds, grunting hippos, and monkeys swinging from tree to tree, as well as the distinct scents and sights of the African bush are enough to keep you on your toes as you search for some of the world’s most intriguing animals. Walking safaris are famous for bringing the detective side out in everyone.

Expert guides are the key to an exceptional walking safari and are an invaluable resource as they provide some of the most spectacular facts about South Luangwa’s fauna and flora, and uncover the most hidden elements of Africa’s bush. Highly knowledgeable guides detect and teach you the fascinating signs pointing to a creature in the nearby area, including a fresh kill, a distant roar, the sly chuckle of a hyena, and animal tracks and droppings. Expert guides who know the land inside and out, the exact tracks of the region’s animals, and the callings of wildlife will open your eyes to the hidden elements of nature.

Hills of Africa travel provides clients with only the best guides in Africa. These guides are licensed, highly educated, and skilled in detecting animal tracks and the direction animals are heading, as well as the exact sounds of animal callings, and what the callings signify. Professional guides walk side by side with travelers to ensure they see the hidden surprises of the bush. Once the guide spots signs of an animal in the area, it’s off to finding more clues to the creature’s location.

The discovery of a lion paw print embedded in the dusty ground has the power to change your course immediately. Stunning birds singing in the trees, swinging monkeys, branch-imitating pythons, and grazing elephants will try to distract you from your quest to find a vanishing lion or cheetah. But, this element of surprise is what makes these safaris that much more exciting.

After a long and exciting day taking on a detective roll in the African bush, retreat to your private tent to shower, and cool off with a refreshing cocktail. After washing up, enjoy a delightful dinner prepared by the camp’s talented chef. Westernized cuisine is almost always available for the more conservative eaters.

Whether you’re looking to devote your time to walking safaris while staying in South Luangwa, or just want to enjoy a day or two of walking safaris, all camps in South Luangwa offer walking safari tours to fit your individual needs. Game drives and night drives are also popular activities in the area, which many South Luangwa camps offer.

Recommended Camps to stay at while visiting South Luangwa:

• Robin Pope Safaris‘ luxurious Nkwali Camp, which has five rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Nsefu camp boasts six luxurious suites with thatched roofs. And Tena Tena Camp is a tented camp that can accommodate up to ten guests.

• Norman Carr Safaris‘ lavish Kapani Lodge is located on the banks of the Luangwa River and can accommodate up to twenty guests.

• Shenton Safari‘s absolutely stunning Kaingo Bush Camp, which has twelve beds, and Mwamba Bush Camp, which offers thatched chalets, and six beds.

• Sanctuary Lodges’ Puku Ridge Camp is small and intimate, built unobtrusively close to the wild. With 6 spacious walk-in canvas safari tents and a wraparound view of the flood plains, you may never leave your tent.

If you’re looking to experience a more remote and exclusive side to South Luangwa, there are several camps located off the beaten path. These camps are usually a three to four hour game drive from the main South Luangwa park gate, but are a real treat to experience.

Within the past five years, Zambia has received much appraisal for its exceptional walking safaris and for this reason has become an extremely popular tourist destination. The most crowded times of the year are during the months between June and October when the climate is delightful and game-viewing is exceptional.

Discover a unique insight into some of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife on a South Luangwa walking safari tour. Let Hills of Africa Travel create a detailed and customized itinerary for you around your every individual preference. Contact us today at 800-940-9344. We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .

Experience what it must have been like for David Livingstone to have discovered Victoria Falls over 100 years ago when you travel on an African safari tour to Zimbabwe. Picture Niagara Falls twice as tall and twice as wide and you still won’t be prepared for the spectacle of Victoria Falls. The locals refer to Victoria Falls as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning the smoke that thunders.

At Victoria Falls, you’ll witness the mighty Zambezi River hurling itself off the top of a 300-foot cliff into a gorge below—one of the most fantastic sights of the natural world. The spray from the falls can be seen up to 50 miles away, making Victoria Falls one of the most incredible phenomenon to witness. Whether on an African family safari, honeymoon safari, or any safari in between, Victoria Falls is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy a luxurious safari trip of a lifetime mixed with adventure and relaxation.

Victoria Falls provides those on a romantic African honeymoon safari or family safari with adventure around every corner:

* Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience as you walk with the lions. The Lion Walk is an extremely safe activity and is supervised and managed by an experienced and qualified team who has been working with lions for over 20 years.

* Experience living on the wild side on Livingstone Island—an island perched on the edge of the Falls. This island is as close as you can get to the grumbling water catapulting over the Fall.

* Ride an elephant through the African terrain for an unforgettable experience.

* Take advantage of an exhilarating white water rafting trip—sure to be one of the most exciting activities of your life. Spectacular rapids and warm water make this a must-do activity.

* Seek adventure on the highest commercial bungee jump in the world. Experience 364 feet of pure adrenalin rush off the bridge that crosses the Zambezi River, connecting Zimbabwe with Zambia.

* Free fall 230 feet above water on a gorge swing in Victoria Falls on a trip to South Africa.

* Take a running leap into thin air over the Victoria Falls gorge on a flying fox. This amazing activity allows you to soar horizontally through the air over the raging Zambezi waters below.

* Travel at a speed of 50 miles per hour, hurtling 1,395 feet across the Victoria Falls gorge, while suspended 364 feet above the Zambezi river on a zip line or foofie slide.

* Experience the Flight of Angels in a small, four-seat airplane, helicopter or microlight above the falls. Enjoy the rare opportunity to observe the rapids from a bird’s-eye view as you fly through the mist and enchantment of the Falls.

Although known as the Adrenaline Capital of the World, Victoria Falls uniquely combines adventure and relaxation for the ultimate African safari vacation:

* Take a sunset cruise along the Upper Zambezi River and marvel at the beauty, witness game quenching their thirst in the evening, watch the mesmerizing sunset, and enjoy a cocktail as you peacefully float down the Zambezi.

* Visit a local village and interact with the village people as you gain insight into their daily lives.

* Shop for locally made crafts and stone carvings at the traditional craft markets.

* Relax as you fish on the Zambezi river.

* Enjoy a delightful river cruise for breakfast, lunch, or watch the captivating sunset on an evening cruise.

* Experience ultimate pampering at one of the many luxurious spas scattered throughout the Victoria Falls area.

Uncover the adventures and beauty of Victoria Falls on a Zimbabwe family safari or romantic honeymoon safari.  Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you the perfect itinerary crafted around your every personal preference. Contact us today at (800) 940-9344. We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .