African Holidays

When you decide to plan your vacation for this summer, think about taking a wild adventure in beautiful and exotic Africa. You will thank yourself for taking such a life-changing trip and exposing yourself to a unique experience. Perhaps you have a vacation destination that is a place you have gone to again and again, and although this may be a wonderful and comfortable tradition, making a radical change in your travel plans might be a way to spice up your life a bit and experience something totally different. Variety is the spice of life, and few places offer as much variety and spice as magical, exotic and wild Africa. There are many places to go in Africa and many things to do, and this place will change the way you see the world for sure. Africa is a magical place and has the tendency to transform the lives on anyone lucky enough to visit.

Planning a trip to Africa is a serious endeavor and it helps to get the assistance of an expert who knows the ins and outs of the area, has experience with the culture and people, and knows the many different things there are to do. It helps to be able to talk with someone who is willing to take their time with you and get to know you personally, so that they can recommend and help to plan your vacation in such a way that you will get the most out of it. There are folks out there who are willing and desirous to make sure that you experience the African continent in a uniquely personal way and have an experience that will stick with you and last the rest of your life. If you want to become one with Africa, do yourself the favor of choosing a travel company that is dedicated to doing just that.

There are many places to go in Africa and many options for travelers and tourists of every stripe. If you are looking to explore the cities, there are a multitude of options and places to go such as Cape Town and other famous urban centers. The wine country of South Africa boasts some of the best cuisine and most upscale dining establishment s anywhere in the world. If you are seeking a more wild adventure then there is no end to the incredible expeditions available to the intrepid explorer. Sea kayaking, deep sea diving, fishing, safaris, animal watching adventures and anything else you can imagine will await you in the wild places of beautiful and enchanting Africa.

The cultural experience is unparalleled in Africa. The people are warm and welcoming and the right travel planning company can help facilitate a cultural exchange that is beyond anything imaginable. A good Africa travel company will have already developed a relationship with the indigenous population and will be able to make sure that you make contact with the authentic dwellers of the country. The cities of Africa are filled with tourists and travelers form all over the world and you are likely to run into people from every corner of the globe. There is nothing quite like making a lasting a friendship so far from home and having a cultural exchange that changes you for the better an broadens you horizons.

Wild African Adventures

Although many of us dream of taking a wild adventure through an exotic location for a holiday, vacation or trip of self exploration, not many of us actually treat ourselves to such an exciting and wonderful experience. There has never been a better time to fulfill this worthy dream, and traveling through beautiful and enchanting Africa is something everyone should do in their lifetime.

Taking a vacation in Africa is like nothing you can possibly imagine, and it has never been easier or more enjoyable to plan a trip of this kind before. Whether you are interested in a wild, rugged walking safari through the wilderness of Africa to go animal watching or bird watching, or you desire luxury African travel of the more refined type, you will find that the open and welcoming arms of this incredibly diverse and magical continent are waiting for you to come and embrace them.

Africa offers so many options for the intrepid traveler that it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to do. Sea kayaking, animal safaris in a big game park, visits with fascinating indigenous populations and just about anything else you can imagine in the wild is juxtaposed with trips through the wine country, tours of vineyards, luxury train travel and dining and sightseeing in upscale metropolitan locations. Truly, something for everyone awaits the traveler or tourist who chooses to explore the magnificent continent of Africa. Imagine being able to choose from a range of adventure options as diverse as equestrian safaris, bird watching safaris, cultural tours, visiting locations of archaeological interest, luxury train travel, cycling through the wine country, and desert rhino and elephant walking expeditions.

Many locations await your presence, including Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Victoria Falls, Rwanda and Uganda to name a few. The adventures that await you are multitudinous and exciting beyond belief from the incredible great migration to gorilla trekking. Surely you owe it to yourself to not deny your spirit the adventure it seeks. Traveling through locations like the Serengeti and seeing the incredible array of wildlife and flora and fauna that flourishes in these unbelievably moving and exotic locations is a life altering experience you will not soon forget.

The amazing people of this region of the world are so warm and welcoming and span the spectrum from interesting indigenous cultures to international visitors and everything in between. Africa is truly a meeting place of tourists and travelers from every corner of the globe and has long set the standard for exciting and exotic travel throughout time and from one corner of the world to another. Interesting people and fascinating locations are the prime reason many people take a trip to Africa to make the most of any vacation or holiday.

Do yourself a favor and book a trip to Africa. Do not put it off anymore. If not now, then when? Perhaps this has been in the back of your mind for a long time, or is a new notion that must be brought into realization. Either way, you will thank yourself for realizing this dream and rest assured, you will never be the same again. Places such as these African locations have a way of bringing out the best in the people who experience them fully and embrace the adventure whole heartedly.

The Cape Point Route

The Cape Point Route in Southern Africa is an adventure that you should definitely consider if you are taking a vacation in Africa. This magnificent stretch of highway is a breathtaking drive through some of the most beautiful country in the world.

Take the Cape Point Route and explore both coastlines on either side of a national park, visit up to 18 beaches, see a wide variety of wildlife including whale watching, penguins, seals, exotic birds and baboons among others. Situated at the southern end of Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world, you will find rural Noordhoek. Browse shops at Noordhoek Farm Village, stop off for a bike ride or walk along the trails of the Silvermine Reserve, experience the Noordhoek Art Route which boasts working artists and tours one Sunday each month, and visit the Red Herring Trading Post set amongst the ancient and majestic milkwood trees. Art galleries, pottery studios and a plant nursery are just a few of the attractions awaiting you at the Red Herring.

Following the Cape Point Route will take you to many other beautiful and exotic locations such as Kommetjie, known for its incredible surfing, Slangkop Lighthouse, which is the tallest cast iron lighthouse in South Africa, Solole Game Reserve offering close encounters with buffalo and antelope in their native habitat, and the peaceful and quaint settlement of Masiphumelele, home to a mostly Xhosa speaking community offering walking tours and visits to some community projects.

Scarborough and Cape Point is a seaside conservation village known for its natural splendor and creative indigenous gardens and is a great place to see whales and other native marine animals. Scarborough beach is an ideal location for bird watching, walking the beach, sea kayaking and surfing, and is home to Cape Clawless Otters. The Good Hope Nature Reserve is within Table Mountain National Park and is one of the most frequently visited attractions in South Africa. Offering angling, surfing and diving spots and protecting over 1200 species of fynbos, 250 species of birds and a wide variety of other mammals including buck and baboons, The Good Hope Nature Preserve is not to be missed.

The boulders, beaches and museums of Simon’s Town and Glencairn are just a few of the attractions to see on this stop along the Cape Point Route. Historical sites such as The Church of St. Francis, the oldest existing Anglican Church in South Africa and The Roman Rock Lighthouse are in Simon’s Town and boat trips for harbor tours, whale watching and Seal Island and Cape Point depart from here.

Fish Hoek and Clovelly lies on the Cape Point Route and boasts one of the safest swimming beaches in South Africa, surrounded by beautiful rugged mountains and white sands. A Stone Age cave site known as Peers Cave was where a 12000 year old man was discovered as well as a collection of Stone Age tools. The Fish Hoek Valley Museum houses interpretive displays of the Peers Cave excavations and many collections of interest. A walk along Jager Walk will take you along the rugged and rocky coastline to Sunny Cove where you can learn about the life of the playful local dolphins and humpback whales native to this area. Finish off your stay in Fish Hoek with 18 holes of golf at the Clovelly Country Club, a gorgeous course offering native sand dunes, flora and fauna and lovely water features.

Intermingling arts, crafts and natural splendor is Kalk Bay, St. James, Muizenberg and Lakeside. Kalk Bay is one of the hippest seaside villages found on the cape offering a cosmopolitan experience of fine art, delicious gourmet cuisine and beautiful architecture. Enjoy the community based project known as Adventure Kalk Bay and take a fishing trip out with some of the local fisherman, or visit the harbour at noon when the fishing boats are returning with their catches. The 125 year old Holy Trinity Church is one of the many historic sites to be found in Kalk Bay. 36 kilometers of white sand and safe beaches are to be found in Muizenberg, as well as swimming pools, waterslide and putt-putt courses intermingled with lovely cafes and shops. The well known Historical Mile is home to the South Afrcian Police Museum, Het Posthuys which is a historical diorama of the 1795 Battle of Muizenberg and the Rhodes Cottage, where Cecil John Rhodes spent his final days. The Lindbergh Arts Foundation is a block of four houses designed by Sir Herbert Baker and is home to an incredible collection of Africana and is frequently used for musical performances and art shows. At the foot of the Muizenberg Mountains you will find beautiful Lakeside, with views of Zandvlei Lake and False Bay, and the incredible Rondevlei Nature Reserve which is a wetland reserve and home to 230 bird species, small mammals and hippopotamuses. The Imvubu Nature Tours offers activities within the Rondevlei Reserve.

The Cape Winelands Region is a must see area on any trip to southern Africa. Steeped in a diverse history and culture, this area offers many wonderful opportunities to experience the fascinating and beautiful culture of the Rainbow Nation. Preserved architecture, museums, art galleries and craft markets will allow the past and present to blend seamlessly in a truly amazing experience. A region known for its innovation and creativity, Cape Winelands is home to some of the world’s greatest master potters, beadworkers and weavers. Spring in this region offers a variety of seasonally specific events and attractions including The Bonnievale Enduro Bike Race, Ceres Squash Festival, Pick ‘n Play Robertson Half Marathon, Woord Literature Festival, National Cheese Festival, Nederburg Auction, JC le Roux Devon Valley Run, Dirtopia Mountain Bike Festival, Michelle’s Pass Half Marathon, Shark Rally, Safari Half Marathon and many others. Regular attractions and things to do in the Cape Winelands region includes miles of 4x4 trails and hiking trails, animal watching caravan and camping experiences, environmental adventures for backpackers and day trippers, and a host of adventures geared toward family and children.

This wonderful route offers many exciting adventures from sea kayaking to African safari, and is sure to make any African holiday an adventure to remember. Do yourself a favor and enjoy the Cape Point Route when you take your next vacation in Africa. Enjoying this drive is luxury African travel at its finest.

The Garden Route, South Africa

For anyone visiting South Africa, one of the most exciting and beautiful things to do is take a driving tour of the world famous Garden Route. Filled with exotic locations, incredible vistas, welcoming local populations and wide variety of plants and animals to see, The Garden Route is unlike any road or highway you have ever traveled on. There is a reason why travelers and tourists from all over the world make sure this wonderful adventure is on the list of things to do on a vacation in Africa.

The Garden Route is a very popular and beautiful stretch of the coast of southern South Africa, stretching from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape along to the Storms River. Named for the exquisite natural plant life that inhabits the region, the Garden Route is absolutely breathtaking and offers a wide array of places to visit and sites to see. The Garden Route includes towns and areas such as Mossel Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Nature’s Valley and others. The Garden Route is found between the Outeniqua Mountains and Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Indian Ocean, home to temperate forests and nearly 300 species of birds and plentiful wildlife. A variety of habitats are found along the Garden Route including forest, wetlands and fynbos. Nature reserves, varied ecosystems, and maritime reserves where one can find coral reefs, dolphins and seals make the Garden Route one of the greatest destinations in the world for ecotourism and African safaris. Most people enjoy The Garden Route on automobile tours, but it must be noted that it is also the home of Africa’s last remaining passenger steam train, known as the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe.

Mossel Bay is a museum and historical site lovers dream, boasting wonderful educational sites such as the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, The Maritime Museum, The Shell Museum and Aquarium and others. Historical sites include the Cape St. Blaize Cave and Khoi Village, St. Blaize Lighthouse, Santos Pavilion and Lazaretto Cemetary amongst others, not to mention the rich archtiecural gems of the area. Top notch hotels, some of the greatest game reserves, a plush casino and fine dining are all juxtaposed against a breathtaking landscape and surrounding wilderness area great for animal watching.

Safaris of many kinds and outdoor adventures are abundant along The Garden Route, including the Keurbooms River Ferries, Botlierskop Day Safaris, The Garden Route Game Lodge and others. Plettenburg Bay is home to the Tenikwa Wildlife Center, Monkeyland and Birds of Eden. Knysna boasts outdoor experiences of many kinds including the Knysna Elephant Park and Spring Tide Sailing Charters, and Tsitsikamma offers the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours.

The Garden Route is dotted with artists, galleries, craft museums and markets, making this fantastic stretch of the African Coast one of the most diverse and rich combinations of culture and wildlife. Any type of accommodations you can think of will be found along this pristine stretch of coastline, from bed and breakfasts, upscale hotels and golf courses and metropolitan hospitality, to camping and lodging in a rustic fashion.

The Garden Route is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline and enjoyable highways to travel on anywhere in the world. Offering a wide array of activities for every personality and kind of traveler, it is a must see for anyone visiting South Africa. Whale watching, sea kayaking, traditional African safari, walking safari and many other exciting adventures await you all along this famous bit of highway.

Treat Yourself to Africa

The next time you are thinking of taking a vacation, consider treating yourself to one of the most exciting and exotic trips imaginable: a trip to beautiful, mysterious and breathtaking Africa. The African continent is one of the most diverse and magnificent places on Earth, and there is no other place in the world to compare with it. Africa offers something for everyone, from luxury metropolitan vacation experiences to the wild and untamed adventure of a genuine African safari. Whether you are planning to adventure by yourself, or you are planning to go with friends or family, an African holiday will be a life-changing and most memorable event.

Vacationing in Africa offers a wide variety of activities for people from every walk of life. Taking a walking safari, whale watching, sea kayaking and other outdoor adventures await you in the beautiful and remote places of the enchanting African continent. Experiencing the magnificent wildlife and tasting, smelling and touching all the exotic local flavors, sights and sounds is nothing short of amazing. Interacting with the local indigenous cultures and experiencing the warm hospitality of the wonderful people who inhabit the African continent will change the way you think of the world. Seeing the exotic wildlife in its native landscape will change the way you interact with the world.

Luxury train travel in Africa, top notch hotels and wonderful restaurants await you in the modern urban centers of Africa, offering a truly cosmopolitan experience. Fine dining, touring vineyards, enjoying nightclubs and cafes are all wonderful options to indulge in when spending time in some of Africa’s welcoming and modern cities. The stereotype of the desolate and uncultivated African landscape is inaccurate, as the conveniences and attractions of the modern world have found a home in Africa alongside the wild and exotic jungles and plains of the African wilderness. In no other place has the ancient heritage of a land so smoothly and seamlessly been juxtaposed with the exciting and enjoyable lifestyle and pace of the modern city and modern urban life.

Where else can you stay at a fine hotel, eat in highly rated restaurants of culinary fame, shop in some of the most upscale stores and enjoy a modern urban vacation experience, and then take a wild adventure in the spirit of the true African safari? Spend a night in a plush hotel room with all the conveniences and luxuries of today’s pleasures, and then go out the next day and see, smell and feel the primal pulse of the African wilderness, complete with native cultures, wild animals and exotic flora and fauna.

There are many resources for helping you to plan such an exotic adventure. Finding someone to help you plan a personalized African vacation that is tailored to your personality and tastes is no longer a problem, as there are wonderful resources with experts on the African continent and culture waiting to assist you. Finding a reliable guide is crucial to making sure you get the most out of your adventure. You want to make sure you get to see all the wonderful things you want to, while having a safe and secure feeling that you are being led by a knowledgeable tour guide. There is nothing in the world to compare with taking a true African adventure, and luxury travel in Africa has never been easier of more enjoyable.

South African Vacations

Many people dream of taking a wild African adventure, but few people actually do so. It may seem like some kind of fantasy, or far off dream, but it does not have to be. There has never been a better time to treat your self to the kind of vacation most people only dream of taking. The exotic destinations, wild animals, interesting culture and vast ancient history of the African continent await you, daring you to discover yourself as you discover some of the most beautiful landscapes and fascinating flora and fauna which inhabit the beautiful, wild places of Africa.

The great continent of Africa offers a vast amount of diversity and pleasure, and choosing a destination can be mind boggling. There are so many regions with their own flavor, culture and sights and smells to explore and discover. Each part of this great continent offers a variety of exotic wildlife, beautiful landscapes and wonderful welcoming people. With so many places to choose from, sometimes it can be beneficial to focus your adventure on one part of the African continent. For example, taking one whole holiday to explore South Africa might be the way to go.

Wouldn’t it be nice to see exotic, wild animals on your exciting African holiday adventure yet also be able to spend some time in an upscale, cosmopolitan city or even perhaps take a journey on a luxury rail system? South Africa offers both of these options, as well as a multitude of other exciting possibilities. The diversity of this country is nothing short of astounding, offering an adventure for tourists and travelers of every stripe and from every walk of life. From luxurious metropolitan nightlife and dining to wild safaris and adventures, beautiful and exotic South Africa is sure to charm vacationers from any background. Luxury African travel has never been more appealing.

Luxury hotels, fine dining and lodging options juxtaposed with the exotic and breathtaking landscapes of wild game parks, African safari adventures and local cultural flavor make an adventure in exciting and lovely South Africa nothing short of magical. Consider Cape Town which is surrounded by some of the most incredible and loveliest landscapes anywhere in the world. Cape Town and its amazing surrounding region will keep you busy for days or perhaps even weeks. Take a walking safari, a driving safari or camp in the beautiful and breathtaking wilderness, then enjoy and lovely evening out on the town and mingle with other adventurers and vacationers from all over the world.

Many people dream of such an adventure their whole lives, but never really allow the possibility of fulfilling this great desire. One of the most important things you can do to facilitate this amazing and life altering journey is to find a company that can help you plan this type of travel in Africa with ease. It can be very intimidating to try and plan this type of travel adventure yourself, and a company with all the knowledge, connections and resources to assist in creating the perfect itinerary for an adventure in South Africa is invaluable.

Folks who know the ins and outs of adventuring in the wild places as well as the refined metropolitan areas of South Africa are rare, and a company with the know how and desire to make your adventure perfect and design travel plans that are specifically designed to include the types of things you want to do and see are rare indeed. A company that facilitates this type of adventure should be genuinely committed to making sure you get the most out of your wild African adventure.

Exciting African Safari

A warm breeze causes the waves of tall grass to waver as you look out over the wild, untamed beauty of the African landscape. All of the exotic creatures you have always dreamed of seeing in real life inhabit the very countryside you are now standing in. No experience can compare with immersing yourself in the culture and landscape of a truly exotic country. Now more than ever traveling to exotic, far off locations such as Namibia, Kenya and Tanzania is safe and enjoyable with the help of a trustworthy guide to facilitate your wild African adventure.

Experience the thrill of bird watching in the wild country of eastern Africa, seeing rock art and taking an equestrian safari or camel safari. Snorkeling in the pristine waters of the ocean off the coast of east Africa, or sea kayaking on the open waters with the wind blowing through your hair and the thrill of adventure leaving a lasting impression on your spirit will create memories to last a lifetime. East Africa offers a tremendous amount of potential for any traveler or adventurer and is sure to be a highlight of any vacation. Even a hot air balloon safari is a possibility on a truly exciting African vacation adventure.

Southern Africa boasts a wide array of activities open to any adventurous soul who chooses to explore this breathtakingly beautiful part of the world. Natural beauty abounds in this paradise and an open and friendly land welcome you to explore everything from luxury train travel in Africa and cycling in the wine country to a desert rhino & elephant walking expedition and the possibility of a great white shark expedition. Gourmet hikes are just another of the interesting experiences awaiting you during a luxury African vacation.

Destinations such as Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Rwanda and Uganda are all available if you choose to become one with Africa. These exciting destinations are rich and vast in their offerings for you to explore, including traditional wild African safaris, luxury travel in Africa and camping and hiking through the beautiful countryside. These teeming wild places are inhabited by every kind of wild creature and wait for you to come discover them.

Choosing a reliable and professional guide is a crucial step in planning such an adventure. Make sure you decide to work with a knowledgeable and reputable team who truly knows the continent and help you plan your trip to assure you get the most out of your African vacation. A company with a lot of diverse resources available to help you shape your adventure according to your personal needs, tastes and desires is a necessary choice. A good guide for these types of trips will have a true passion for the country and respect for the cultures who reside in the places they take people to. Selecting carefully when choosing who will be your support team for a life altering African safari vacation will make the trip safer and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

It’s one thing to take a single jeep ride into a game park and see some animals from the far off seat of your vehicle, but quite another to taste, touch and experience first hand the life that exists in the wild places of the world. A wonderful opportunity awaits those who actually decide to immerse themselves in the experience and camp in the countryside, interacting with the spirit of the land. That is true luxury travel in Africa.

Luxury African Travel

To truly take a vacation that rivals any other you could imagine, taking a wild African safari could be the most amazing. Travel in this exotic continent offers a multitude of amazing experiences and a lifetime of memories for the intrepid explorer who wishes for something very unique and different.

Tanzania is a mysterious and beautiful land rich in exotic, diverse wildlife, a fabulous ecosystem full of pleasant surprises and a rich ancient culture thriving with wonderful energy. Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, the beautiful and captivating shores of the Indian Ocean and a whole range of other fantastic locations and wonderful surprises await you in beautiful and enchanting Tanzania.

Incredible events that most people never get to witness like the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, or the colorful and quirky community of flamingos on Lake Manyara happen here in this African Paradise. Vacationing in Afrcia and seeing lovely Tanzania offers the chance to see the incredible towering sheer walls of Empaki Crater, sacred Oldonyo Lengai volcano, the untamed, wild Serengeti Plains and the breathtaking Great Rift Valley. Add to that the remoteness of many other adventurous locations and sights, and an African safari in Tanzania becomes one of the most incredible adventures you could possibly explore.

Kenya is very well known for its wide spectrum of incredible game. The Masai Mara, a very famous and arguably the prime area for wild life in Kenya boasts the great Annual Migration. Experience the classic African adventure as you get to see all the big game typical of the vision of Africa. To experience the amazing Chyulu Hills, see the elephants of Amboseli, view the volcanic formations of Shaba, to feast your eyes on the geysers of Lake Bogoria and the flamingos of Lake Natron requires the adventurous traveler to take a sojourn in Kenya. Kenya has long been known as the classic safari destination with its golden, open grasslands and scores of majestic wildlife.

Taking a safari in Africa is something many people dream of for their whole lives, but few people build up the actual courage to do. Resources are available now for folks who wish to be able to have a hands-on, wild African adventure while also having a safe, reliable guide who knows the ins and outs of this exotic land. Now the adventurous traveler can experience luxury travel in Africa without having to sacrifice comfort and safety. You can camp, have a safari, go sea kayaking, enjoy whale watching, go on a walking safari, see far off locales, enjoy pristine wilderness and scenery, explore some of the most amazing sea and ocean shores in the world and do many more amazing things while enjoying luxury African Travel.

Breathe, taste, feel and see the majesty of Mother Earth in a whole new way, while building memories and experiences that will serve you for the rest of your life. Companions who wish to have a truly bonding experience will benefit greatly from taking such a wild adventure together. Share the joys and excitements of all the sights, smells and tastes of this rich continent and ancient and haunting locations. There is nothing quite like the life altering experience of taking a true, wild African safari. If you have ever dreamed of such a trip, or even if the idea is new to you, consider taking advantage of the expertise and resources of the experts and let them help you plan the adventure of a lifetime.

Luxury Travel to Africa Just Got More Affordable

Zanzibar Music Festival Provides a Luxury Escape to Exotic Africa
Price reduced until December 11th--No single supplement! Singles will just pay the same rate as doubles

Looking for a totally cool and unique way to beat the economic and winter doldrums? How about whiling away your evenings dancing to African vibes under a clear night sky while spending your days exploring the magic and mystery of exotic ZANZIBAR? Think it can’t get any better? After spending a week at the famous Sauti za Busara (“Sounds of Wisdom”) music festival you will enjoy 5 glorious days relaxing (or not) at a 5 star resort and spa on the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean.

One With Africa www.onewithafrica.com, an African travel specialist company based in Western NC is offering a 13 day/12 night small group luxury tour built around the Festival in February 2009. If you prefer to travel independently a custom itinerary can easily be arranged.

On February 11 you will be met at the Zanzibar airport by the Festival’s North American representative who will be your personal guide throughout your journey. With his extensive knowledge of Zanzibar and the Festival, Graham will keep you abreast of all festival activities and can suggest other activities that suit your specific interests.

So what can you expect? A carnival and street parade kicks off festivities on Thursday, February 12th, featuring a beni brass band, drummers, wanandege (umbrella women), dancers, stilt walkers and acrobats. The parade arrives at Forodhani Gardens around 5pm and continues into the Old Fort where the Festival gets under way with an eclectic mix of African and world music.
.Each day big names are joined by upcoming artists. Altogether, thirty of the best groups from Zanzibar, Tanzania and around East Africa are scheduled to perform, featuring traditional, modern and acoustic music. Another ten groups, from Comoros, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mali, Senegal, Ghana, Nigeria and UK will also take the stage. Here is what the BBC had to say about the Festival:
"There the music blended and grooved, dancers felt moved to do spontaneous improvisations, drummers went flying in search of new rhythms and the singers explored new harmonies and sounds together. There were a few of those really magical moments, when different musicians find that common place where it 'clicks' and everything works in harmony to produce a truly exciting new sound". - BBC

The main stage of the festival is situated within Stone Town’s historic Old Fort under open skies. The venue explodes with color as stalls sell food, refreshments, African clothing, music and local handicrafts. The atmosphere is unique, special and the Festival has a reputation as “the friendliest festival on the planet!”

Included activities while in Stonetown feature a visit to a local spice farm, a day trip to Prison Island (where the century-old turtles lay their eggs on the beach), a walking tour of ancient Stonetown and a visit to nearby Jozani Forest (home to red colobus monkeys) followed by a tour of the Mbweni ruins. You will also have a couple of days at leisure to do what you please. Of course, you will enjoy VIP passes to all festival events. On your last night of the festival you will leave town behind and head for Kendwa Rocks, a beautiful beach location on Zanzibar's north coast. There will be DJs, acrobats, and live performances evolving into a fantastic Festival Finale Party - and dancing till dawn.


While in Stonetown you will stay at the historic and elegant 236 Hurumzi Hotel, a World Heritage Site situated in the heart of town and an easy walk to the Festival. After the Festival, head to the beach for some serious down time, staying at the 5 star Breezes Beach Resort and Spa for the remaining 5 nights of your journey. You can opt to relax in their fully equipped spa, enjoy a romantic dhow cruise or just laze on their beautiful white sandy beach. For the more adventurous the resort offers a range of marine activities including beach volleyball, pedal boats, canoeing, daily snorkeling trips to the lagoon, windsurfing and sailing. Up for a bit of diving or always wanted to learn? The resort features a fully certified PADI dive center which caters to both advanced divers and those requiring one on one instruction.

This is an ideal trip not only for music lovers but also for fun-loving travelers who appreciate culture, history and rare architecture - not to mention wonderful Swahili cuisine. It is a unique and fun opportunity to meet the local people in a truly authentic atmosphere while mixing with fellow international travelers.

Now for the best part. If you book your journey by December 11, 2008 the cost of this 13 day, 12 night adventure is only $3250 and includes all breakfasts and most meals, hotel accommodations, airport and resort transfers on Zanzibar and a V.I.P. Festival pass to all events/performances. This price is good for either single or double occupancy! After December 11th the price increases to $4900 and is based on double occupancy. This is a LAND ONLY price. Airfare to Zanzibar, airport departure taxes ($30/person) and any personal expenses are extra. Mary Ann Merrill, owner of One With Africa will be glad to provide a detailed itinerary, assist you will all travel arrangements and answer any questions you might have. Pre and post safari extensions can be easily arranged. Email Mary Ann (maryann@onewithafrica.com) or call her toll free at (866) 250-5790.

Rather travel on your own and/or don’t want to spend a week at the Festival? Please contact Mary Ann who will be happy to design a private itinerary for you with a pre or post safari extension according to your particular interests and time allowances. February is a great time to go on safari in Tanzania. This is typically the time of year when the wildebeest drop their calves and predator action is plentiful. What an exciting way to chase away the cold weather blues!

African Travel

For as long as I can remember, I have always been attracted to the beautiful, mysterious and enchanting continent of Africa. From the fascinating array of wild, exotic creatures who roam its lovely and thriving wildernesses to the interesting and curious practices and lifestyles of its rich native history and heritage, Africa has been at the very top of my long list of destinations anywhere in the world. With almost trepidation I imagine myself on an African safari in the unpredictable alien landscape of the African world.

Exotic locations like alluring Botswana, wild Tanzania, beautiful Kenya, enchanting Namibia, exotic Zambia, lovely South Africa, and breathtaking Victoria Falls call to me to come and explore them in all their robust detail. The sights, smells, tastes and experiences undreamed of before setting foot in such a life changing environment.

Luxury travel in Africa to these incredibly far-off and thrilling places is not as difficult as it once might have been. The days of hacking your way through dangerous jungles or risking your life on unguided expeditions is long since past, and we can now benefit from the experience and expertise of those who have bravely gone before us. Imagine being able to see Africa’s wild and diverse population of animals up close and personal. To actually immerse oneself completely in a different environment is a truly miraculous thing. And having a trustworthy guide is invaluable to anyone wishing to partake in such an important adventure.

One way to experience the wonders of Africa is through a reputable organization that has a wide list of destinations and resources, and who will be truly enthusiastic about helping you to fully benefit from a hands-on, true exploration of the immense treasures an African traveling experience can offer. Activities such as African safari, sea kayaking, whale watching, walking safaris, animal watching, and other adventures in such places as Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia, Zambia, South Africa, and Victoria Falls. African travel has never been easier and more enjoyable than it is now, and it is no longer necessary to deny yourself that trip you have long dreamed of any longer.

These days vacation time is precious and when you are planning that all-important trip that you only get to do once a year, why not make sure it really counts? Few opportunities will present themselves that allow you to indulge in one of the most amazing adventures of your entire life while feeling secure in knowing that expert traveling aficionados are assisting in the preparations and guiding you along the path as you soak in the very essence of the region you are traveling in. When an opportunity like this comes it is time to take it and see what the world beyond the ocean has in store for you.

Wonderful places like the Tarangire National Park, incredible Lake Manyara National Park, magnificent Lake Eyasi, Ngorongoro Coservation Area, wild and beautiful Serengeti National Park and Selous Game Reserve await you in Tanzania on your African vacation. Many Safari adventures are seen only from the viewpoint of the 4x4 vehicle, but if you wish to see the bush up close and personal is another thing. For the intrepid explorer who wishes to experience the bush with all senses, there are companies who will help you realize that level of interaction with the environment.