Below, our recent clients from New Orleans, the Todd family, share their amazing experiences in Africa:

The Todd Family: Trey, Beth, Amie, and Alex

“Any chance to re-live some of the life altering experiences that my family and I had on our Hills of Africa safari is most welcomed. Nothing can beat watching the African sunrise over the Okavango Delta with loved ones or feeling the exhilaration of a charging elephant testing the abilities of our dedicated guide as we back up quickly down the road! Nothing compares to the playful antics of leopard cubs wrestling in the tall savanna grass! When will we ever get another chance to view the majesty of a pride of lions against a backdrop of acacia and baobab trees or a family of cheetahs lounging on a termite mound before an evening of hunting impala.

Image taken by the Todd Family

The magic of Africa now runs through me as surely as if I were a child of the Kalahari leaving my footprints next to the spoor of the hyaena. This same magic that rekindled the passions of my daughters and wife for nature and the great outdoors. Everyone needs to share the experiences of a trip like this with their loved ones. It was unforgettable, spiritually uplifting, and truly just fodder for the soul. Throw in a couple of World Cup soccer games and I believe one has found the formula for the perfect holiday!

Many thanks to the Hills of Africa people who made this trip a reality for my family. Thanks to the staff of the Chitabe, Tubi Tree and Duma Tau camps for the meals, the dancing and entertainment, and the camaraderie. Thanks to the extremely knowledgeable guides for teaching us the species and the environmental impact of everything we do.  Lastly, thank you Sandy for helping us get through a very trying time when we thought all the preparation would be for naught after we missed our flight. I can’t wait to schedule our next trip to Cape Town or Kruger or to recommend your company to friends.”

–The Todd Family

Image taken by the Todd Family

Image taken by the Todd Family

Image taken by the Todd Family

Image taken by the Todd Family

Image taken by the Todd Family

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Imagine the photographic opportunity of a lifetime; where sprawling landscapes, stunning people and wildlife, and classic countryside estates a-line perfectly with your viewfinder.

This one-of-a-kind opportunity awaits you on Hills of Africa Travel’s Africa in Focus 2010 safari, led by famous photographers Peter Hurley and David J. West.

Peter Hurley

During the Africa in Focus 2010 safari, you’ll learn everything you need to know to take professional and moving photographs, while touring some of South Africa and Zimbabwe’s most fascinating and historically- and culturally-rich townships and regions. From the world’s oldest wine estates to bustling Cape Town life, local community projects to Victoria Falls (one of the seven natural wonders of the world), and African safari tours to historical sites, you’ll experience and capture an enchanted world of beauty and cultural diversity through the lens of a camera.

In order to help you better understand the components of Africa in Focus 2010, and become acquainted with Peter Hurley and David J. West, Hills of Africa Travel is hosting a live webinar this Wednesday, March 24 at 9pm – 10pm EDT.

David J. West

On this call, you’ll learn about the itinerary for this 12 day journey to Africa, ask any questions you may have, and meet Peter Hurley and David J. West.

But before the call, we would like to share with you our reasoning behind why we chose Africa in Focus to take place in South Africa and Zimbabwe:

• Both countries are rich in natural tourism resources including the people and wildlife of the region, as well as lush and protected landscapes. Our number one priority at Hills of Africa Travel is to ensure that all of these resources remain sustainable and continue to thrive. We only support tourism establishments with the same standards as we have and direct all travel dollars into the best hands.
• Both countries provide the perfect setting for photographic journalists in the field to document the incredible benefits of eco-tourism efforts and natural resources to the land, people, and wildlife of Africa. During your Africa safari tours, you will have the highly-rewarding opportunity to snap photographs of some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife, and, once we return, you can submit up to three of your photographs to be included in a collection that will become a coffee table book, the proceeds of which will go to the Hills of Africa Foundation.

Discover Africa through the lens of a camera. Sign up for Hills of Africa Travel’s Africa in Focus 2010 photography safari tour.

We all have past life fears that block and stall us in our lives, and many times, we are unaware of these fears.

This clarity of life is waiting for you on Hills of Africa Travel’s Soul Safari Transformation with Ainslie MacLeod, a psychic and featured author on Oprah’s Soul Series. During the Soul Safari Transformation, you’ll discover the simple, step-by-step system for understanding your soul’s purpose, while you uncover a sense of fulfillment and joy you have never known—all in just 9 days while you enjoy a Zimbabwe safari tour, a Victoria Falls tour, a Hwange National Park safari, and a Zambezi River cruise.

In order to help you better understand the components of the Soul Safari Transformation and become acquainted with Ainslie MacLeod, here are just a few highlights from the Soul Safari Transformation trip:

• 9 days of immersing yourself in the lessons of The Transformation with constant guidance by Ainslie MacLeod.
• All activities of a leisure trip to Zimbabwe, such as a steam train ride, canoeing, a sunset cruise, and game drives.
• External energetic boost of nature.
• Internal energetic boost of game viewing and making a lasting, meaningful impact on locals and wildlife.
• All tips for guides.

Each day on safari, after an invigorating 3-hour game drive and delicious and satisfying breakfast, you will sit down with Ainslie for a 3-hour workshop.

In these talks, you’ll learn . . .

• How to identify past life fears and find a motivation that will result in totally eradicating them. You’ll receive power in absolute clarity, you’ll have the ability to embrace your authentic self and finally love who you are, you’ll discover a freedom you’ve never had before, and you’ll discover what you were put here to do.
• How to decode your soul and discover the life your soul intends for you.
• Why uncovering your soul’s purpose will help you create a happier life.
• How to gain Direction, Empowerment, and Fulfillment: Using the Transformation to live the life your soul intended.
• How to explore the planes of existence that make up the Soul World.
• What happened 55,000 years ago when humans got souls, and how your soul chose a complete individual personality before birth.
• How past lives influence your present lifetime.
• How the process of evolution allows your soul to grow.
• How other people’s expectations can derail your life plan.
• Why life’s obstacles are challenges to be overcome.
• How manifesting your true self leads to profound fulfillment.

Ainslie MacLeod

So if you really want to decode your soul and discover the life your soul intends for you, join us for our Soul Safari Transformation 2010. Learn more here and begin your journey to self discovery.

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

As one of the leading community project facilitators and supporters in South Africa, the Uthando Foundation strives to “raise moral and financial support for children who are infected or affected by the HIV / AIDS crisis in South Africa.”

Through their relentless efforts to bring happiness and health care to local South African communities, the Uthando Foundation is working hard to provide children with basic necessities, such as food, medication, moral support, education, shelter, and more. As of the beginning of January, 2010, Uthando has delivered to all of its projects for its second, full year in business. With a handful of new projects lined up for the year, Uthando is seeing great strides in their efforts and has a positive outlook for the future.

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

One of the newest—and allegedly controversial—projects this year is The Underberg Calendar Girls. The discreet and humorous calendar is comprised of nude photos of a group of mothers in the small South African town, Underberg, who are taking their clothes off to help raise money to heat the local school pool. Because the pool is usually cold throughout the year, children usually don’t use it for athletic purposes or even for play.

Looking to brush the dust off the pool, the mothers of Underberg are hoping to raise money for their non-profit calendar, but not without some scolding from local conservatives who are accusing them of “promoting sex and immoral acts.”

We wish them luck and hope that their brave efforts and hard work pays off!

Visit their Facebook group, The Underberg Calendar Girls, to view some of their photos and join the conversation.

Amy MacLeod shares her experience on Hills of Africa Travel’s exclusive Soul Safari trip:

“‘How can it be so difficult to talk about a trip to South Africa?’ my friends ask me.  Profound experiences flooded every day of my Soul Safari.  Yet I’m challenged to paint a verbal portrait of the impact this trip has had on my life.  There is a soulful depth and breadth to those experiences.  There is a quality to the impact of what I saw, felt, tasted, smelled, heard and intuited.  The Soul Safari adds up to a life altering experience for me.

I signed up for the Soul Safari because Hills of Africa put together and offered a Safari that included not only a variety of safari events, but also sessions with Ainslie MacLeod, author of The Instruction – Living the Life Your Soul Intended.  A Soul Safari!  I was thrilled at the prospect of combining wildlife and soul in an organic, eco-conscious environment in both the bush and in the city.

African safari tours

My life, on one of the Canadian Gulf Islands, is peaceful, simple and organic – to the extent that I still chop my own wood, eat food out of local gardens and find a trip to any city exhausting.  Obviously, a safari was going to be a bit overwhelming for me, I realized, but I saw that Meredith and Sandy had organized the trip with quality precision and professionalism.  Every detail was looked after – I simply had to follow the itinerary.

Being overwhelmed is an understatement.  It is breathtaking to experience the energy of lions walking beside the jeep and elephants playing in a mud hole in front of us on the road.  My heart nearly burst over the acceptance that these incredible creatures displayed.  Something happened to me when I saw wild animals display more dignified acceptance of us than many humans show each other in our world today.

In Cape Town, something happened to me when I felt the energy of Table Mountain.  And when I was accepted into a Muslim home where I was invited to help prepare the meal that we shared.  And when I saw people living in abject poverty maintain a dignified, welcoming demeanor while sharing who they are so openly.  And to see all that they are doing to help their own, and each others’, growth in a variety of healthy ways.

In summary, this was a spiritual experience.

African safari tours

Being back home, if I can be tenacious enough to pick through the profound influences I have been given, I will find threads of new direction.  Some threads have revealed themselves sufficiently to be suspect now.  These revelatory threads appear slowly, not profoundly.  They simply show up when reality hits the road of routine.  I hear myself thinking or speaking with a ‘difference’.   I don’t want to miss those threads.  I ask my soul for the gift of insight and willingness.

Yes, traveling to Africa has been a life altering experience.   It’s simply not easy to absorb it all and I am still working on that.  I am cocooned in the experiences that bombarded my senses.  I am just starting to receive glimpses of inner changes.  These changes are still very much under construction!”

From the Pride of Soul Safari 2009,
Amy MacLeod

Famous for its rainforest, roaring waterfalls, mysterious caverns, rivers, grassy floodplains, woodlands, Albida forests, and sprawling pans, the Gorongosa is the premier destination for those looking to gain a broad insight into some of the world’s most fascinating eco-systems. Since Gorongosa’s natural world is defined by its complex eco-systems, having the best guides on your walking safari through the National Park is an absolute must.

One such safari provider, Explore Gorongosa, is an eco-tourism company that prides itself on its expert guides and their ability to combine all the social, historical, cultural, and ecological elements of the region into their guided tours.  Because of the area’s deeply rooted history and its affect on Mozambique’s natural world, no other destination in Africa provides a more well-rounded insight into a specific region quite like Gorongosa National Park. This historical heritage is arguably the strongest element that sets Gorongosa apart from other popular walking safari destinations.

Incorporating the history of the land and its affects on the region’s fragile bio-diversity, the exceptional walking safaris offered by Explore Gorongosa provide an all-encompassing and highly educational experience for all visitors. On these walking safaris, you’ll learn how the region’s history of ancient civilizations, Arabs, and gold, ivory, and slave traders, tribal conflicts, and restoration projects, has shaped Gorongosa into the exciting place it is today. In addition, you’ll be able to see the direct affects this history had on the wildlife population and how conservation efforts over the past several years have transformed the area into one of Africa’s most stunning destinations.

In addition to employing the most knowledgeable locals in the area as certified guides, Explore Gorongosa accommodates guests in semi-mobile, luxury tents. Housing up to eight guests, Explore Gorongosa’s accommodations offers an intimate atmosphere and safari experience for all its visitors. Since each walking safari incorporates the minute details of nature, as well as larger details, Explore Gorongosa only provides private safari tours to ensure you experience the entire detective aspect of a walking safari.  

Since there are no set safari itineraries, you can choose to enjoy whichever aspect of Gorongosa National Park you wish. Whether you’re looking to experience a theme-based walking safari—such as a birding safari, or an all-encompassing walking safari, Explore Gorongosa will cater to your every individual preference. 

Exclusive walking safari excursions:

If you’re interested in a more niche-oriented safari excursion that combines your favorite interests, some detective work, surprise, excitement, and inspiration, Explore Gorongosa provides a series of special interest safari excursions throughout the year. In the coming year, choose from individual expeditions such as birding, species re-introduction, photography, artistic, anthropological, Gorongosa Mountain, and lion studying.

All encompassing walking safaris:

As you journey through the varying terrain of the Gorongosa on an Explore Gorongosa walking safari, you’ll learn to listen for the distinct callings of Mozambique’s wildlife, search for animal markings, and track paths of residential lions and elephants with the invaluable expertise of Gorongosa’s certified local guides. These highly knowledgeable guides introduce you to the hidden elements of Gorongosa’s indigenous wildlife that ranges from larger game to intricate wildlife hidden beneath rocks and inside crevasses.

Fascinating birdlife including the green-headed oriole, African fish eagle, Egyptian geese, a wide variety of crane species, and much more can be seen during your comprehensive tour through the Mozambique bush. Many of the larger species of animal spotted are Nile crocodiles, lions, hippos, antelopes, and elephants.

In contrast to ecological tours, community tours allow you to discover inspirational elements of the local culture and take a deeper look into how culture has been shaped by Mozambique’s history. You’ll also be able to tour the newly built school and hospital in the Vinho community and observe the positive effects it has had on the locals.

As you observe Mozambique’s bio-diversity, you’ll learn about the direct correlation between the region’s empowering history and its wildlife population, as well as the numerous conservation efforts that helped save this region’s species.

Photo from Avondale website

The wine country of South Africa is full of old-world Dutch estates, family-owned vineyards, and charming countryside, but there is one vineyard, in particular, that is appraised for not only its eco-friendly practices, but also for its delectable wines.

Each year, Avondale picks their best wine from the barrel and awards it the Les Perleus label. This label of excellence was given to their Merlot 2006 this year because of its “deep velvety texture,” hints of fruit flavors, and long, subtle tannin finish.

Photo from Avondale website

Below you will find more information about the Les Perleus Merlot 2006:

• Some of the grapes were fermented in open tanks and the other part in closed tanks.

• Part of the fermentation process occurred in French oak barrels to draw out deep flavors of wood.

• The wine is ready to drink now. However, if you would like to wait until the wine has aged the recommended time is 15 years.

Avondale, an exceptional vineyard that began in Paarl, South Africa, features some of the most exquisite wines in the world and since its opening has expanded satellite vineyards to fifteen countries across the globe. But Avondale is famous for more than its splendid wines—they are Bio-LOGIC certified for their entire farm. In a nutshell, Bio-LOGIC certification requires that a farm does not use pesticides (even if they’re organic) or herbicides in their grape growing process. Avondale has taken great pride in this certification and strives to do their part in sustaining the environment.

Learn more about this exceptional vineyard here:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPVV9YbsY-s&hl=en&fs=1&]

Here’s a scenario for you: You’re driving by yourself and your vehicle breaks down. You have no food, no protection from fierce predators and the scorching sun, no water, and no direction on where to go. What do you do?

Here are 3 ways to survive in the African savannah in the most vulnerable state—as prey:

1. Find water: Many times, it won’t rain for weeks or months in the savannah, which is why finding water is such a difficult task. There are several ways to find water sources throughout the savannah. One way to find water is to search for animal tracks and follow their footsteps to see if they lead to water. If you come across a fast moving river, you’re in luck. Streams and rivers that sit without a current can harbor parasites and bacteria, which is why it’s important to find a fast moving river. You should boil the water though, no matter what, to prevent bacteria and organisms from entering your body.

If you don’t find a river, it’s time to dig. Many times, water will be beneath the surface of a dried up river bed. Before committing to digging a hole that could take up to 10 minutes to dig, it’s important to find the lowest part of the river bed (water will collect here). If you do happen to strike water, use a piece of clothing to act as a sponge and trickle the water into your mouth.

2. Find Food: Finding food can be just as difficult as finding water, but if you do find water, chances are there will be food in the area as well. Throughout the vicinity you may find some berries and fruit, but before eating them, it’s crucial that you check to see if they’re poisonous. Here are a few tips to test a fruit or berry:

• The smell of the fruit plays a large role in detecting whether it is poisonous or not. First, cut the fruit open. If it smells like peaches or almonds, it’s poisonous.

• If the fruit passes the scent test, it’s time to place the fleshy part of the fruit on your skin. Rub this part of the fruit up and down your forearm and wait a minute to see if it produces a rash on your skin. If so, it’s poisonous.

• If the fruit passes the above tests, it’s time to bring the fruit to your lips. If you feel a burning sensation on your lips, the fruit is not safe to eat. If not, move the fruit to your tongue, but don’t swallow. If the fruit doesn’t agitate your tongue, take a bite of the fruit and wait several hours to see if you become sick. If not, the fruit is edible.

3. Protect yourself against predators: When walking through the African bush, it’s crucial to keep your attention on every element around you. Being observant will help you to avoid unwanted “surprises.” Depending on which animal you see in the bush, you want to know different tactics and movements to avoid becoming their dinner.

If you see a lion, keep your distance, remain calm, don’t turn your back, and don’t run. Move your arms, head, and feet around, and clap your hands together to avoid them coming closer. Slowly back away from the lions while continuing to face them.

Although lions can be extremely intimidating to see in the wild, especially if you’re by yourself and lost, there are a variety of other animals to be careful of including buffalos and black rhinos. Both species need their space, which is why it’s important to always keep your eyes open and stay clear of these animals. Rhinos have a fantastic sense of smell and hearing, which makes up for their lack of good eyesight. Because of their keen sense of smell and hearing, it’s important to be extremely quiet and know the direction of the wind to prevent your scent from lingering in their direction.

Do you have any other tips for surviving in the African savannah? If so, we’d love to hear them in our comments section.

Birding Safari: Bird lovers find South Africa to be one of the greatest countries in all of Africa to observe an abundance of unique birdlife. Currently, South Africa has over 850 different species of bird, and many of those species are endemic to the area. The best time to enjoy South Africa’s birdlife is during the spring and summer time (September – March). From ostriches to bateleur eagles, and African penguins to Cape parrots, you’ll observe some of the most exotic birds in the entire world on a South African birding safari.

Cape Town: Home to some of Africa’s best restaurants, shopping, and tours, Cape Town, South Africa is a must-visit destination for travelers. Some of the many attractions throughout Cape Town include, Table Mountain, Port Elizabeth, museums, art exhibits, and Cavendish Square—to name a few.

Dive with the Sharks: In Gansbaai, an island off the coast of South Africa, there are a variety of shark dive safari providers and excursions to choose from—some including cages, photography opportunities, manta rays, hammerheads, tiger sharks, Great Whites, and more. If you’re not feeling as adventurous as those going into the water, a shark viewing safari from the comfort of a boat is also highly rewarding and adventurous.  

Elephant and Horseback Riding: Take a ride on the back an elephant and experience stunning views of Africa and wild game from 13 feet above ground, or enjoy a horseback safari through indescribably landscapes. A horseback riding safari and elephant safari are two of the greatest ways to get up-close to nature and run with herds. 

Franschhoek: Informally dubbed the “Food & Wine” capital of South Africa, Franschhoek’s historic French Huguenot Village is one of the most exceptional places in all of Africa to enjoy stunning countryside landscapes, experience exciting cultural affairs, dabble in wine tasting, explore charming bistros and boutiques, and observe classic Cape-Dutch architecture. 

Garden Route: With a chain of sprawling mountains, valleys of wildflowers, lakes, forests, and majestic beaches, Garden Route is the perfect destination for honeymooners and families alike. Whether you enjoy fishing, sun-bathing, water sports, birding, hiking, scenic tours, or cultural tours, Garden Route has it all. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a relaxing trip past jagged mountains and above plump treetops on a hot air balloon safari. Get a new perspective on South Africa’s diverse terrain as you glide through the air on this tranquil safari and enjoy fantastic photography opportunities.

Inkaba Body Balance: Experience this revolutionary and completely rejuvenating Inkaba massage therapy at the Serenite spa at L’Ermitage Franschhoek Chateau & Villas. This hands-on therapy is used to connect the body’s energy and create balance within. During this treatment, the entire body is stimulated—from the toes to the face.

Jardine: The contemporary and hip ambiance of the Jardine restaurant in Cape Town is one of the many reasons why the restaurant has landed a spot on South Africa’s prestigious Eat Out award list. Jardine boasts a delightful selection of fine African and Contemporary cuisine, such as tender duck confit, Chalmar beef fillet, and tantalizing desserts.

Kruger National Park: As the first wildlife reserve in southern Africa, Kruger National Park has made a name for itself as the premier place to observe the Big 5 on a South African family safari or honeymoon safari. Kruger and its adjacent private reserves are home to some of the most luxurious and exclusive lodges and camps in all of Africa, including Singita, Londolozi, and Mala Mala. 

Local Village Tours: Take a tour through one of South Africa’s many quaint and charming villages and discover interesting facts and stories about local cultures and history. During these tours, you’ll have the amazing opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their lifestyle and cultural heritage.

Mpumalanga: Breaking free from traditional African safari tours, Mpumalanga, South Africa is a haven for people who love the outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, historic site seeing, or water sports, Mpumalanga can accommodate your every desire.

Photo provided by Dave and Naomi Estment

What ostriches can’t do in the air they make up for in their great running speed. Running in sudden bursts at speeds slightly more than 40 miles per hour (70 kilometers per hour), the ostrich can move across large distances without tiring. The ostrich cannot maintain this speed for long periods of time though, so, on average, it runs 30 mph (50 kph) and has the ability take 10 – 15 ft. (3 – 5 meter) strides. 

What else makes the ostrich one of the most unique birds in the world?

• Built for running, the ostrich’s legs are long and each foot has two toes. These toes enable the creature to run faster.  

• Ostriches can be life-threatening if they feel they are being attacked. If the force of their powerful kick doesn’t kill a large animal, its 4 inch (10 centimeter) claw on each foot will probably do the trick. 

Photo provided by Dave and Naomi Estment

• On average, the ostrich can live up to 30 – 40 years of age and is only found in select areas of central Africa and southern Africa.

• Not only is the ostrich the biggest and heaviest bird, it also has the largest eye out of any other land animal. Ostriches also have excellent vision, which makes it easier for them to see predators in the distance. 

• On average, herds of ostriches reach up to 10 members and consist of an alpha male and a dominant hen, as well as several other hens. During breeding season, the alpha male will mate with the dominant female and sometimes with other hens in the group. All other hens in the group must place their eggs in the dominant hen’s nest. The dominant hen’s eggs get the most attention and are in the center of the nest.  

Photo provided by Dave and Naomi Estment

• Ostriches’ main diet consists of plants, roots, and seeds, but also includes insects, lizards, and other small creatures found throughout their territory. Because ostriches eat so much vegetation, their main source of hydration comes from plants and not from large sources of water. When an ostrich eats, it collects food in the back of its throat until there is a substantial chunk of food, at which time they will swallow.

The beautiful photographs in this post are provided by Dave Estment a well-known South African photographer and are copyrighted by Dave Estment.  To see more of Dave’s gorgeous work, please visit http://www.naomiestment.wordpress.com.  Thank you very much Dave & Naomi for sharing your work with us and everyone wanting to Live the Magic of Africa.