Mr Safaris

Although only a handful of us aspire to actually climb Mount Everest in our lifetimes (AKA "Nutjobs"), I count myself among those who want to at least see this colossal peak before I die. To me, the Himalayas still represents a far-off adventure few of us actually get to see in person, but many of us have on our lifetime to-do lists. So imagine how exciting it was for me to run across a travel company that specializes in putting together small group adventure travel tours to the most awesome mountains in the world. No, we are not actually talking about climbing such mountains as Everest (although Africa's Kilimanjaro is a mountain they conduct hiking tours onto), but can take you on hikes and treks...

Looking forward for thrilling and fun filled adventure tours that are different from your daily routine? Ever thought about what it would be like trekking in the Himalayas in India? Well, in case you too want to explore the mighty Himalayas, plan an adventure travel in India next time you want to go for an adventure trip. However, try to make your trip Eco friendly so that in future other adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy similar Himalayan treks. Adventure tourism in India specially trekking in Himalayas is increasingly gaining popularity in the recent times. Popular trekking routes in Garhwal, Ladakh, Sikkim and Himachal are visited by numerous trekkers in the peak trekking season between the...

vango River never reaches the ocean, instead it spreads out over the Kalahari in an astounding maze of waterways, separating the vast landscape into a patchwork of islands, crystal clear lagoons and meandering channels. One of Africa's most precious natural resources, the water of the delta is a magnet for wildlife including elephant, giraffe, zebra, buffalo, hippo and crocs! Not that the presence of predators seemed to worry our local guides who steered us through this reedy maze in traditional wooden mokoros. As our guide poled his way through the dense papyrus reads further and further into the delta, the incredible scenery and birdlife kept us utterly enthralled. Hours later it occurred to me...

How to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro 1. How do I Choose an Operator? There are literally hundreds of companies who service the mountain. Selecting an operator can be a daunting task. You want to be sure that your operator staffs experienced, competent guides, who practice high safety standards and treats porters well. You want an operator that has proven expertise, successfully serving a wide range of clients for many years. Our local operator has lead climbs on Mount Kilimanjaro since 1987, and has helped thousands of climbers reach the peak. 2. How Much Does it Cost? Do not select a company strictly based on price! Price should be only one component in your overall decision. Prices vary significantly...

Kilimanjaro is the fourth highest mountain in Africa and the highest of all the freestanding mountains in the world with an elevation of 15,100 feet (4,600 meters). The people who make their home in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro are the Chagga, the largest ethnic group in Tanzania. The Chagga traditions were studied and reported extensively by Charles Dundas, a European, in 1924. His book, The Kilimanjaro and its People depicts a culture that has disappeared little by little every passing year. Tourists can catch an occasional peek at this people's strange traditions when they visit the smaller villages. These glimpses into the past culture of the Chagga make a tour of these villages more popular...

Safari-speaking, the best place to be during the months between July and October is the Masai Mara Game Reserve. One of the greatest wildlife spectacles - the annual wildebeest migration- takes place in the Mara during this period, give or take a few weeks on either side of the 'time-boundaries'. Although being anywhere at the Mara National Reserve during this time will give you a chance to enjoy this awe-inspiring natural event, picking the right lodge might just add that 'front-seat' feeling that will enhance your safari experience. Some lodges have this 'front-seat' advantage when it comes to the migration. Such lodges are not many, considering the fact the there are over 40 lodges and camps in...

Location: Eastern Madhya Pradesh Wildlife Attractions: White Tiger Best time to visit: November to June With the onset on winter weeks, get set to visit Bandhavgarh National Park. It covers an area of about 448 sq km and is best known for the highest population of Tigers in India. No sooner you enter the park area, then you need to get around cautiously. Tigers may walk deliberately down in close vicinity to your footsteps. The forest area is full of surprises and with each move you will encounter unexpected wonders. The magnificent 12th century Bandhavgarh Fort forms the backdrop and offer cozy space to the enthusiasts. Wildlife Safari in Bandhavgarh National Park Jeep Safari is the best option to...

For animal lovers a trip to Bali is not complete without visiting Bali Safari & Marine Park. Designed for animals to live in a natural habitat, however also allow you to get closer to them than you ever thought possible. Have the chance to cuddle a baby orangutan, tiger, lion or leopard. Observe and get up close to over 60 different species as you enjoy a safari journey, on a tram, straight through animal enclosures. Enjoy the daily animal education & elephant conservation shows where these amazing animals show off their talents with a variety of tricks. Explore the fresh water aquarium and have the chance to touch a baby shark. Cool down at the water park designed for both kids & adults or enjoy...

The annual Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara and Serengeti game reserves is the most spectacular wildlife show in the world. Every year, between August and November, about 2 million wildebeest and zebras move in search of greener pasture and water as seasons change. Although the migration timing varies, the best time to get a glimpse of the dramatic event is between June and August when the wildebeest gather in preparation to cross the renowned Grumeti River. Numerous predators such as lions, hyenas, cheetah, leopard and a host of carnivores can be spotted hovering around the area waiting for a chance to strike the weak prey. The wildebeest make their arrival in Mara between August and...

I had a chance to meet Helga recently at the Servas Conference that I covered in Vancouver. Once you read Helga's story you'll realize why she has been included in a recent book called "Women Who Rock", featuring the stories of women who have made outstanding contributions to business, sports or community endeavours. Originally from East Germany, Helga escaped to the West in 1963 and came to New York City a few years later. Without much help, she raised three children, completed a university degree and successfully established herself in the United States. Helga has volunteered for a variety of non-profit organizations, inspired others to get active by running marathon races and climbed Mount...

Mount Kilimanjaro was made famous in the western world by the acclaimed writer Ernest Hemingway, who wrote the short story "The Snows of Kilimanjaro" in the 1930's. When you think of Africa, snow is usually one of the last things that comes to mind, but Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania had a substantial snow and ice capped peak for over 11 thousand years. I say "had" as it's rapidly disappearing. This is yet another example of how a natural wonder that seemed so permanent has apparently fallen victim to man's destructive ways. In the last one hundred years, it's estimated Mount Kilimanjaro's ice cap volume has dropped by more than 80%. In 1901, there was approximately 12.1 square kilometres of ice on...

Kilimanjaro records: Fastest ascent of Kilimanjaro In 2001 Bruno Brunod of Italy managed to reach Uhuru Peak from Marangu Gate in just 5 hours 38 minutes and 40 seconds. This remains the fastest verified ascent of Kilimanjaro. There are a couple of unverified claims, however, with Sean Burch of Virginia claiming to have made it to the top on 7 June 2005 in 5 hours 28 minutes, and Christian Stangl of Austria claiming to have achieved the summit in 5 hours 36 minutes in October 2004.Incidentally, Bruno then ran back down the same way, reaching Marangu Gate just 2 hours 56 minutes and 12 seconds after summiting. Adding these up, his total time on the mountain was just over 8 hours 30 minutes...

The Kilimanjaro, like all mountains, offers different types of vegetation with every little rise in altitude. In a way, it seems to be mimicking the change in vegetation that you would see while moving from the equator to the poles, albeit on a much reduced scale. At the base of the mountain, vegetation is nearly identical to that of the surroundings, and a slow move towards the barrenness of the ice-capped poles is seen as you climb upwards. The zones of mountain vegetation are called - from peak downwards - alpine, subalpine, and montane, apart from which there is the zone at the base of the mountain that is not yet distinct from its surroundings. Vegetation depends, apart from altitude, on...

Kilimanjaro starts on the dusty hot plains around Moshi town and then moves to the lush villages on the slopes of Kilimanjaro. From here you ascend through tropical rainforest, alpine desert to near artic conditions at the summit. Many people fail because they are ill equipped and sometimes people die in attempting the climb. Be properly equipped it is an essential part of your preparation to ensure that you are well equipped for the attempt on Kilimanjaro. Draw up a check list or print one of the many websites of Kilimanjaro specialist. To be physically prepared is important. You will be hiking to the top, it is a demanding climb and make sure your body is adequately prepared for the physical...

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most famous volcanoes. Volcanoes, as everyone knows, are mountains that explode every once in a while, causing untold devastation... and then dying down again for thousands of years. You have to wonder - how do these mountains get formed? Why do they explode? Why do they have craters on top? Most importantly - will the Kilimanjaro explode while I'm on it? So many questions. But worry not, here are the answers. First of all, the Kilimanjaro is not likely to erupt while you are on it, as it hasn't exploded in at least 150,000 years. Right now, scientists are more concerned with the rapidly dissolving glaciers on the Kilimanjaro's peak than the possibility of a...

One of the tallest and largest mountains in the world Mount Kilimanjaro lies on the border between Tanzania and Kenya. It is one of the easiest mountains to climb because it has smooth steep slopes and few landslides except near the top of Kibo. Kilimanjaro has three peaks, Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi. Shira and Mawenzi have the highest rate of erosion thereby have lost some of its peaks. Kibo, the youngest is not as much eroded and is a perfect cone. There have been many expeditions attempting to climb the big mountain. The most successful attempt to scale the mountain, but only after his fourth try, was Dr Hans Meyer of Germany who made his successful climb on October 5th, 1889. In 1912 the mountain...

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most easily climbed peaks in the world. This is due to many factors - 1. Its relatively smooth and steep slopes, best to prevent acclimatization 2. Its convenient height - not too high 3. The absence of frequent landslides, except directly near the Kibo peak As a result, many thousands have scaled the Kilimanjaro since its peak was first conquered in 1887. Taking stock of everyone who has successfully performed the feat is impossible. However, there have been many notable incidents related to scaling the Kilimanjaro. The first successful expedition to scale the Kilimanjaro was the 4th trip made for the purpose. The achievement belongs to Hans Meyer, who scaled the...

Everyone that's any type of climber has been to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. You've been dreaming about climbing the mountain for years. You've made other smaller climbs, but this the one that you've talked about but haven't done. Maybe the sheer height makes you pause. But as long as you've planned out your trip, and take all the necessary precautions pre-climb you won't have anything to worry about. Equipment To make sure that you are ready, you need to have the proper equipment. If you've it for all while you might need to get it checked out. Depending on the route you are going to take whether easy or difficult everything needs to be in proper working order. Do you have the right attire and shoes...

Culminating at 5895 m (19341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is by far Africa's highest and most majestic mountain! Here's some advice on what to bring on your trekking odyssey! Walking sticks Whether you call them walking sticks, staffs, or trekking poles, they're just indispensable for a comfortable walking journey! Walking sticks will assist you during your climb, and support your knees on descents. Especially if you already have fragile knee joints! For best support (and even better comfort), consider buying two sticks! Boots Your walking boots have to be solid and soft at the same time, the type that will resist the most extreme weather conditions out there! Indeed, boots are perhaps the most...

While there are many who climb Mount Kilimanjaro every year, some people also die on the mountain as well. Many of these people are killed because they didn't prepare ahead of time before they started climbing. While there are many trails that you can climb without gear, there are some things you should know before you set out on your adventure. One of them is that many people don't bring the right kinds of clothes. Sure, at the bottom is a hot rain forest, full of exotic animals. You can wear shorts and a tee shirt, but if you are still wearing these clothes at the top, you are going to freeze to death. Another thing that people don't understand is altitude sickness. Mount Kilimanjaro is over 19...

Introduction Reaching almost twenty thousand feet high, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest point in Africa. In Swahili, Kilimanjaro is translated as the "Mountain of Greatness." In 2000, my brother and I decided to climb this great mountain. We spent months preparing including understanding what we would need to summit, designing our approach, getting the right equipment and training for endurance. We then spent one week executing the plan up the mountain. Since these are the same steps required in managing any project, I decided to write a case study on Project Management best practices in the context of planning and executing our journey up the mountain. Planning Like most big projects, we had an...

If you are a day to day coffee lover, then you may already be branching out to sample different coffee growing regions. Coffee is grown all over the world, but it is primarily grown in regions on the equator between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Coffee needs to be cultivated in a humid climate with the proper amount of rainfall, meaning that you won't find coffee growing in northern Europe or other similar climates. When you begin to explore the coffee growing regions of East Africa, you will find delicious and robust flavors in your cup of Joe. Many of the flavors available from these regions have fruity and floral undertones with a medium body and high acidity. For instance...

East Africa looks out over the Indian ocean and there is a strong culinary bond between West Africa and India. Indeed, East Africa has long been a landing point for vessels engaged in the spice trade, from the Indians of 4000 and more years ago through the Romans, Arabs and European colonial powers. There is therefor a strong Indian influence in the cookery of West East Africa (especially Swahili traditions) and spice-favoured curries and pilaus. Bread is also more of a staple in the West African diet than it is in much of the remainder of Africa and you get many variations of pan-fried and flatbreads. There is a big distinction between the cuisines of the North of West Africa (Ethiopia and Somalia...

-- End Ad Box ---> African coffees tend towards the exotic in flavors as compared to the more well know Latin American coffees. These flavors include what’s described as fruity and floral with high acidity and medium body. Let’s review several of the more popular African coffee growing countries. Kenya The king of African coffees, washed Arabica Kenya coffee, is considered overall to be of the highest quality on the continent as a result of years and years of production, very high standards, superior milling facilities and coffee experts. Located on the east coast of Africa, Kenya’s Mombasa port has been a natural focal point of commerce for ages. The famous Rift Valley of Central...

        AUTHOR: ANGUALIA DANIEL CIVIL SOCIETY AND CORRUPTION IN EAST AFRICA     ABSTRACT   Corruption is a big problem in Africa. International reports by World Bank and National reports by member states have revealed that colossal sum of money is lost to corruption. This has impeded the achievement of the Millennium development goals and other national development objectives of the respective states.   Civil society organizations of national, regional and international character as well as organizations such as International Monetary Fund, African Union, Africa Development Bank and World Bank have raised concern over increased corruption in the region. This is despite the legal and...

v> Having been called to Johannesburg to assist with the coordination of a large corporate function, I figured I’d grab some free time and visit Pilanesberg National Park, a growing tourist destination only 2 hours out of Johannesburg. My friend and colleague Colin joined me on my full day’s escapade.  Pilanesberg National Park, a malaria free area, is set in the crater of a long extinct volcano, a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. Fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills, the park rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. Game drives through...

Extreme or not? From recent experience we would say "DEFINITELY EXTREME." There is nothing more terrifying than standing on a seemingly fragile platform 111m above the gorge at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, staring down (I know I know - you should NEVER look down, but try remembering that when you have just realised what you have signed yourself up for!) at raging waters way way below whilst the realisation of what you have committed yourself to slowly sinks in. Now this sounds like I did the bungee jump doesn't it? I didn't. Fortunately, and here I heaved an ENORMOUS sigh of relief, you are advised not to jump if you suffer from a weak shoulder, weak knee, a heart condition or any neurological problem...

"The family that plays together stays together," and luxury vacations are the greatest ways to play! Everyone needs a vacation, especially families. Tired parents, cranky kids and spoiling grandparents may not see spending the night in a Motel 6 as the best vacation plans. Families want to go on vacations that will please everyone, and the best way to do that is to find the best travel destinations, accommodations and eateries that are family friendly. Family Friendly Destinations The best way to find family friendly destinations is to consider places that have attractions that will entertain travelers of all ages. For example, some of the best family destinations are exotic beach locals. Kids...

Nowadays, who hasn't dreamed of finally booking that awesome dream vacation to far off, exotic lands once thought to be unattainable to the average person? Luxury vacations are becoming an increasingly available option for many more people than in the past. And corporate travel, which after 9/11 took a major hit, seems to be making a minor comeback. This is probably due to the desire of people for a bit of luxury travel, and luxury travel agencies seem willing to take on this additional task. Why fly on the cheap all the time? Face it; many of us are going to scramble for that coach-class seat for most of our lives. That's just a fact of our economic existence, for the most part. Also, many of us...

With all the concerns people are having about the state of our economy, I was happy to find out that the travel industry is doing well. The luxury travel market has seen a steady increase because now more than ever, everyone needs to get away from it all and relax! "One mans ceiling is another mans floor" as they say, so everyone's idea of luxury can be vastly different. For example, a luxurious vacation for you may be visiting the French Riviera and staying in a first-class villa overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Others may be perfectly happy camping out on a secluded tropical beach counting the stars at night. Just like it's a "buyers market" for housing, the travel business has never been in a...

Luxury Travel Membership is a source of great opportunity. Through these luxury travel memberships it is possible to earn impressive financial rewards through the membership sales. When you are selling these memberships, you are providing a new way of life, not only for yourself, but for your customers as well. You will enjoy the commissions that are a part of the landscape of these memberships. Look for commissions of $500 to $1000 from each sale. You can expect to make a good living as a part of the network. You will not trouble budgeting from one large payday to another a long time later, since commissions are paid weekly. The phone and office support is always available, 24/7 for your questions...

Being a family doesn't mean luxury travel, elegant hotels and jet set living have to be put to one side. Although some of the top boutique hotels in the world do cater more to couples than kids, there are plenty of family friendly crash pads in both town and country that will make your holiday experience superbly lavish! After all, who deserves a little luxury more than a stressed out parent? First of all, luxury hotels have an excellent reputation for personal service - and this can translate into family facilities, too. Many top hotels have a concierge who can arrange child minding or babysitting whilst the grownups enjoy a Michelin starred dinner, or an extra cot or bed to be added to the room to...

The forecasts about travel changes have been as robust as the forecasts about technology changes that impact our lives. So far, many changes taking place in the travel industry are living up to these forecasts. In particular, experienced travelers are finding that the luxury travel market is trending toward customized travel arrangements. The trend is for an increase in niche travel services and products. It is not uncommon now to see mutual interest cruise packages or adventure tour operations. The recent difficulties presented by the economy have somewhat altered travel trends from the forecasts. Consumers are more price conscious now, though not necessarily spending less. Instead, when it comes...

Until recently not many would've thought of luxury travel as an agent of world peace and understanding. Even now this aspect of travel hasn't quite rung a bell, generally speaking. Are tourists responsible for more than their luggage when they travel? Yes, of course, a whole range of things from toddlers to passports. But, world peace? Surely you can't hold them responsible for something so intangible and more at home in the realm of political diplomacy, especially when all they want is to leave responsibilities behind and have some unrestrained fun. Well, luxury travelers are certainly not expected to transit in the Middle East and start negotiations before they continue to the warm tropics to work...