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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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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Things To Do and See In Africa: A – Z Part II

On October 25, 2009, In African Family Safari, African Honeymoon Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

View Part I here.

leopardNight drive: Observe some of South Africa’s most interesting wildlife—at dark. During night drives, you’ll see Africa’s nocturnal wildlife and some of the Big Five at their most active. At night, lions and leopards are frequently spotted on the move or hunting.

Ostrich farm: Visit Western Cape’s Little Karoo for a unique tour through one of its many ostrich farms. During these tours, you’ll observe breeding behaviors and witness how ostrich eggs and feathers are crafted into decorative assortments for the home and stylish accessories.

Port Elizabeth: Filled with an array of stunning beaches, nearby golf courses, boardwalk shopping, a casino, water sport activities, and an aquarium, Port Elizabeth creatively combines relaxation with adventure. And at night, the city comes to life with exciting ghost, graveyard, and cell tours.

Quad Biking: South Africa’s rugged, bumpy terrain has made this country synonymous with quad biker’s paradise. Whether you want to ride through the Drakensberg Mountains or the beaches, the bushveld or the Valley of The Elephants, Mpumalanga wetlands or Kruger National Park, you’re guaranteed to find adventure in the varying terrains of South Africa.

Rust en Vrede: This exceptional estate exclusively produces only red wines and is located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Their wines include 1694 Classification, Syrah 2006 (which has already sold out), Estate 2005, Shiraz 2005, Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, and Merlot 2008. Their bold, full-bodied reds are a treat to anyone’s itinerary and this estate should not be missed. In 2008, the Rust en Vrede estate’s 1694 Classification wine and the Syrah 2006 wine both received the double golden Veritas Award for excellence.

penguinSwim with the penguins: Not as traditional as swimming with the dolphins, swimming with the penguins offers a completely unique experience if you’re looking to get up-close-and-personal with these adorable little creatures. Boulders Beach on the Cape Peninsula is one of the only places in all of Africa where the African penguin lives and it is a highly-rewarding experience to interact with them in their natural environment.  

Tour Table Mountain: Enjoy a panoramic view of Table Mountain as you journey up the rocky mountainside in a rotating cable car. Each cable car has the ability to fully rotate, giving you the opportunity to see 360 degrees around you. On your cable car trip you’ll see stunning gardens, death-defying cliffs, and playful dassies—furry brown creatures that live on the mountain whose closest relatives are the elephants. Because there are 350 routes up the mountain, having a guided tour is highly recommended, as it can be extremely difficult and sometimes dangerous to navigate the mountain on your own.

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg: As the longest, tallest, and largest mountain range in all of South Africa, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg (meaning “Dragon Mountain”) is a must-see natural phenomena. This World Heritage site has one of the largest collections of Sans rock paintings in all of Africa. On the mountain you can also see a wide variety of plant, bird, mammal, and reptile species, and you can experience exciting activities such as hang gliding, hiking, and rock climbing. 

Victoria and Alford Waterfront in Cape Town:  This area is one of the most culturally enriching places to see in Cape Town. With a working harbor, unique seaside culture, five-star restaurants, historical monuments, and world-famous shopping hubs, Victoria and Alford Waterfront has it all.

Walking_SafarisWalking safari: If you’re looking for an African safari tour that combines an interactive experience with a rich cultural and learning environment, then you’ll want to take part in a walking safari through Kruger National Park, South Africa. On a walking safari, you’ll learn to listen for the distinct callings of South Africa’s wildlife, search for animal markings, and track paths of residential lions and elephants with the invaluable expertise of certified local guides. These highly knowledgeable guides introduce you to the hidden elements of indigenous wildlife that ranges from larger game to intricate wildlife hidden beneath rocks and inside crevasses.

Xhosa People: With a population of around 7 million individuals, the Xhosa people primarily live in the Eastern Cape and are the ancestors of the Nguni, a group that migrated from central and northern Africa to southern Africa. Keeping their traditional culture alive, the Xhosa people provide visitors to the region with a culturally enlightening experience. Watch as they craft exceptional beadwork, perform dance rituals, and speak in the Xhosa language (comprised of clicking sounds).

honeYmoon safari: South Africa is one of the most exceptional places to enjoy a romantic honeymoon safari. With a variety of intimate and luxurious accommodations that provide honeymooners with superior service and care, and a wide spectrum of activities for honeymooners, it’s no wonder South Africa has made a name for itself as the perfect honeymoon destination.

Zulu Traditions: Zulu culture has kept the same traditions passed down from their ancestors including ceremonies, rituals, and old traditions. With the belief that birth, marriage, and death are important times to interact with the ancestors, the Zulu people will sacrifice a variety of items to the ancestors during these moments in life such as home-brewed beer or a slaughtered animal.

View Part I of this post here.

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Client Testimonial from South Africa Family Vacation

On October 14, 2009, In African Family Safari, African Safari Vacation, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

My clients, the Sirois family, just returned from their African safari vacation to South Africa, where they traveled to Cape Town, the Garden Route and went on safari.  Here’s what they had to say:

The Sirois family having a Cape Malay cooking lesson

The Sirois family having a Cape Malay cooking lesson

Thanks to Hills of Africa we had a very unique and personalized experience on our visit to South Africa. We would never have been able to find all the wonderful places we visited without their invaluable advice. We even learned to cook a traditional Cape Malay meal in a home in the Bo Kaap District of Cape Town! Tour books don’t come close to what they did.
We had a fairly rigid time line and lots of things we wanted to do. They put together a fabulous itinerary that not only allowed us to fit in all the things we wanted (touring, shopping, wineries, safari, etc…) but also gave us some flexibility to add things along the way. They booked us with hotels, game reserves and tour guides that they KNEW would be top notch. Hills of Africa met all our expectations and more. We can’t wait to go back.

The Sirois family having lunch in Kalk Bay, Cape Town

The Sirois family having lunch in Kalk Bay, Cape Town

I love Africa, I love planning vacations to Africa, and I think it really shows.

Have you been to Africa?  What were your lasting impressions of your trip to Africa?

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Hills of Africa Travel featured in JustLuxe

On May 25, 2009, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

We are very excited that JustLuxe has featured us in their luxury travel article this week.  Thank you so much Christy Stewart, and we hope you enjoy this article.

The Magic of Hills of Africa Travel
Contributor: Christy Stewart View Profile

Luxury Tours: Planning a trip to Africa can be just as overwhelming as it is exciting. Thoughts of fierce felines and sun-drenched safaris can quickly turn to questions and concerns regarding one’s travel plans and safety. When planning a trip to Africa, one’s best bet is to rely on the experience and expertise of a seasoned travel professional. That’s where Hills of Africa Travel comes in.

Specializing in customized African safari tours, Hills of Africa Travel offers the discerning traveler an array of invaluable resources. From honeymoon to family safaris, the company provides a unique experience from beginning to end.

Based in the United States, Hills of Africa Travel has been providing clients with superior service since 2000. As the company’s directors, Meredith Hill and Sandy Salle’s passion for Africa is conveyed through their dedication and determination to provide clients with an unforgettable trip of a lifetime.

“Our mission is to change lives, one journey at a time…every time. We know that when we apply our passion to creating our clients’ itineraries, we definitely change their lives when they travel,” says Meredith Hill, president of Hills of Africa Travel.

In addition to changing the lives of its clients, Hills of Africa Travel strives to leave a lasting footprint on the African community.

“The amazing thing is that there is another side to the mission. We intend to change the lives of the locals in Africa, too,” says Hill.

To ensure client satisfaction, Hills of Africa Travel utilizes local experts and tour operators who possess a vast knowledge of the African culture. Each itinerary is custom-tailored to fit individual needs and, unlike other tour companies, no two itineraries are alike.

According to Hill, the company’s relatively small size is what sets them apart from the rest. While other leading tour operators generally offer cookie-cutter itineraries and partner up with specific properties based on volume discounts, Hills of Africa Travel goes against the grain.

“We are small — and proud of it. We have no intention of being ‘big,’” Hill says. “Being small gives us many luxuries that benefit the client. For one, we are able to custom design every single itinerary for our clients.”

Though the company may be small in size, its scope seems endless. Hills of Africa Travel has locations in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Victoria Falls and has contacts spanning southern and East Africa. From the moment a client steps foot on African soil, he or she is welcomed by a member of the team and attended to as though he or she is family.

Like many discerning travelers, Africa was not Hill’s first destination of choice. As a self-proclaimed travel snob, Hill assumed Africa was “dark, dangerous, dusty, full of poverty” and couldn’t possibly offer the luxury travel experiences she desired. However, after making a trip to meet her boyfriend’s family, she was hooked.

“What I found was the most perfect travel experience ever. There was scenery so incredible it made me want to cry. It was as if the colors were brighter, the smells stronger and the sounds more beautiful. There was the wildlife — so magnetic, powerful. I could sit, for hours, in complete silence, just watching — never had an experience like it,” says Hill.

“I was blown away by the level of sophistication, the awesome and novel décor, the amazing food and the warm and charming sense of personalities. Then there were the people. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms, big smiles and an element of warm hospitality I have not found anywhere else in the world. This is the Africa I know today.”

Hill has been drawn to Africa ever since and describes its energy as being pure and clean.

“It is food for our soul. It is an amazing, magnetic and peaceful experience. I always return from my trips there with a newfound energy and zest for life,” says Hill.

The friendly, personalized service continues well after the client returns home. In an ongoing effort to provide clients with the best service possible, a follow-up call is made to the client to discuss the details of the trip.

Africa truly offers something for everyone and with Hills of Africa Travel in your corner, you’re sure to experience all of the magic this amazing country has to offer. Any reservations one might have about traveling within Africa are put to rest as Hill’s team of experts is there for you every step of the way.

Soul Safari
While Hills of Africa Travel prides itself on creating customized itineraries, when the chance to work with acclaimed author and psychic, Ainslie MacLeod, presented itself, they knew this was an opportunity not to be missed. MacLeod’s book, The Instruction: Living the Life Your Soul Intended, has been well-received by critics and has even been featured on Oprah.

On October 19, 2009, 32 lucky soul searchers will have the opportunity to join MacLeod and the Hills of Africa Travel team for nine days on a spiritual journey through South Africa. Together, MacLeod and Hills of Africa Travel will guide you through a quest to decode the purpose of the soul and achieve newfound clarity, all under a captivating African backdrop.

For JustLuxe Christina Stewart

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Why use a Private Safari Guide for your African Safari Vacation?

On January 26, 2009, In Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, By Sandy Salle

Our very good friend, and professional African Safari Guide, Mark Homann of Bushspots based in South Carolina, very kindly gave us the answers to this very important question. Mark is a native Zimbabwean, who has worked as a private safari guide for over 15 years, working in some of the very best safari destinations in the world. We would like to thank Mark and Bushspots for taking the time to help us understand why we should use a Private Safari Guide.

An African Safari Vacation is all about seeing and learning about Africa’s Wildlife and the environment they live in. By the time you entrust yourself into the hands of your guide, you will have traveled far and invested a great deal. You are stepping into a world that is so alien to you; you may as well be visiting Antarctica.

A safari guide’s role is to manage your experience and to be responsible for your safety at all times. This involves a lot more than getting you in the right place at the right time. Your guide should be an interpreter unraveling the many mysteries that surround you. This is no easy feat and involves a life time of passion, observation and understanding. Now the guiding industry is a tough business to grow old in. A young guide must forgo many of the joys of modern life, work long hours for many months at a stretch far away from the bright lights of civilization for little financial reward. To gain the necessary 10 to 15 years of experience needed to be a Private Safari Guide there is one single quality that makes this small group of guides stand out within our industry, this is an unwavering passion and enthusiasm for sharing Africa’s wildlife and wild places with you the guest.

A lot of African Safari Camps and Lodges have very good resident guides and a private safari guide is not always necessary. Whom ever is fortunate enough to guide you, it is important to remember, they work for you, the more you help the guide to understand your interest the easier it is for them to show you the Magic of Africa.

Many people have formed life long friendships with their guides and travel on an Africa family safari every year. It’s always hard to say goodbye to your guide, but remember that memories are important, and your safari guide hopefully gave you memories to last a lifetime.

Why not make this year your year to take a trip of a lifetime?

Hills of Africa Travel specializes in customized African vacations. We offer spectacular adventures with personalized and customized service, guaranteed to provide you with the experience of a lifetime. Call us on 1-877-845-4802 to talk with an African Vacation Specialist.

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10 Reasons why Tswalu, Kalahari is a Must-See

On January 19, 2009, In South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Enjoy personalized services and luxurious accommodations at Tswalu in Kalahari, the largest private game reserve in South Africa, situated in the Northern Cape Province. This once in a lifetime trip combines luxury, adventure, and tranquility for all who visit. It’s not just a vacation—it’s a life altering experience…

1. The Kalahari offers some of the most stunning game viewing in Africa. Take an exhilarating safari through this captivating reserve and observe endangered species, leopard, lion, wildebeest, rhino, zebra, python, and so much more.

2. Use your photography skills to create a photo layout comparable to ones seen in National Geographic Magazine.

3. After your morning safari, relax in Tswalu’s tranquil pool—frozen drink in hand, or take a trip to the nearby prehistoric beaches.

4. For a new spin on the traditional vehicle safari, take a ride on horseback along Kalahari’s many trails and observe the region’s game, wildlife nests, and stunning scenery.

5. Taking a break from all the adventures Kalahari has to offer is simple at Tswalu’s Sanctuary Spa. Among their many spa treatments, you can treat yourself to a revitalizing massage in the privacy of your own suite. You’ll awake the next morning refreshed and prepared to take on your next adventure.

6. Tswalu’s dune dinning is a magnificent way to enjoy delicious cuisine under the sparkling stars and among the beauty of nature. Sharing a bottle of wine and exciting stories from the day is a great way to unwind before retreating back to your suite for a wonderful night’s sleep.

7. Tswalu cleverly combines luxurious accommodations with Kalahari culture and materials. Enjoy a shower inside your suite or outside when the day is beginning to cool. Internet and satellite TV are easily accessible for when you want to get back in touch with friends and family at home. The combination of high-end accommodations and cultural surroundings is sure to create a magical experience for the entire family.

8. The prestigious Tswalu, Kalahari was awarded National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s Top 50 Eco-Lodges 2009 and US Conde’ Nast Traveler 2007 World Savers Award, among many other awards. It must be worth experiencing!

9. For golf lovers, Sishen Golf Course winds through a Camelthorn forest, offering a truly unique experience for players. This legendary 18-hole golf course is one of the best in Africa.

10. Each season in the Kalahari boasts different climates which attract various spectrum of game, categorizing Kalahari as a year-round destination. During the rainy season, Zebra and Wildebeest migrate to the grassy areas where water has rejuvenated vegetation while the salt pans of the region fill with water, providing an excellent haven for flamingo to breed.

Find out how you can experience the delightful wonders of Kalahari on an African safari vacation with Hills of Africa Travel. Call us today at (877) 845-4802 and let us create for you a tailored itinerary around your every personal preference.

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Traveling to South Africa – How to Get There?

On December 29, 2008, In Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, By Sandy Salle

There are so many options for you to think about when planning for your African Safari Vacation.

One of these is flights and how to get there?

Hills of Africa Travel is here to help you plan your trip of a lifetime and we know the best and easiest ways in getting there.

South African Airways currently flies out of New York Kennedy and Washington Dulles to Johannesburg on a daily basis.

Delta Airlines flies out of Atlanta and New York Kennedy to Johannesburg on a daily basis. Here’s a little secret - if you want to fly to Cape Town and begin your Africa family safari in the Cape region, you can connect in Dakar to a direct flight to Cape Town. Plus you get to go into the private Delta Airlines lounge and freshen up – magic.

You can also fly through Europe with night flights and a day to spend exploring in one of the European cities, eg. London.

Hills of Africa Travel specializes in customized African vacations. We offer spectacular adventures with personalized and customized service, guaranteed to provide you with the experience of a lifetime.

The Hills of Africa Travel team is ready to send you on a life-altering experience like no other. Call us today at 1-877-845-4802, or email us at hoainfo@hillsofafrica.com.

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