Adventures in Africa

Africa remains a continent of mystique, where traditional values and dozens of cultures intermingle with arid deserts, sub tropical forests, near-extinct volcanoes, endangered mountain gorillas and a host of other superior attractions, making it one of the most adventurous destinations known to man.

Although Africa is a vast and untamed wilderness, safari specialists have, over the years, tapped into the local knowledge and experience, and today Africa, in all her magnificence, can be quite easily and safely revealed to the more adventurous traveller.

Each region of Africa has its own particular allure and no one nation is comparable to the other. Even though the continent was effectively ripped into shreds by the colonial powers, the cultures, traditions, crafts and verbal histories of the region have endured and even strengthened since the heady days of independence.

There is a feeling of pride and uniqueness among the vast and distinctly different clans of local people who inhabit this patch of the planet and although the past may have been painful for many, there is today a definitive resurgence in the belief in Africa and all things African.

Southern Africa adventure tours abound, from elephant-back safaris in the lush oasis of the Okavango Delta in Botswana to Dhow cruises along the Kenyan coast to gorilla trekking in the heart of the Ugandan forests.

For premier game viewing, East Africa has traditionally been the destination of choice, but for a romantic tropical beach paradise there are a number of regions that will suit:

• The islands of Mozambique, including the Bazaruto Archipelago, Pemba and Inhaca
• The epitome of a beach getaway , the decidedly French island of Mauritius
• The Indian Ocean coastline of Kenya that boasts some of the best underwater diving in the world

If rugged and hostile territory is your vision of a unique African holiday, then Namibia is the ideal destination. The Namib Desert is one of the most inhospitable regions of the continent whereas the red dunes of the Sossusvlei are incredible in both their hue and their reach into the skies.

South Africa, located on the southern-most tip of the continent, has an entirely different ambience with sprawling, first world cities, an effective infrastructure and a burgeoning economy. It offers both bush and beach, with the city of Cape Town earmarked by many as one of the most exciting in the world.

For a unique African holiday, simply pull out the map, close your eyes and let your finger fall onto it at will and then head off to your destination - you will arguably never want to leave.