African Safaris Guide

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  • Self Drive Safari In Uganda – What To Pack?

    Usually, tourist travelling from abroad, you need to pack well for your self drive safari. After you have hired a car which is fully equipped 4×4 you need to embark on things to use during yourself drive safari. Questions you should ask include; what do I need to pack for my self drive safari in Uganda? Well, first and foremost, travel light space in the vehicle will be at a premium! Always remember, if you intend explore some of the more remote areas of the country, you will carry your food supplies alongside a large array of camping equipment. You should bring a suitcase for your stepping out gear in case you plan to spend time in Kampala, one of the most beautiful cities in Africa, before or after your safari. However, the smart thing to do would be to have a smaller bag for your trip to the bush.

    The clothing need to be very comfortable and of a fabric that breathes easily so that you will not sweat excessively. In case your clothing are composed of dark colors you are likely to feel the heat, bright colors will stand out in the bush and white will show the dirt very quickly. Thus you are advised to go with something neutral. With a particular climate, lightweight shirts/blouses and shorts are normally recommended. Usually, a pair of long trousers and a long sleeved shirt/blouse or two should be included. In most cases, Uganda can get quite cold at night and in the early mornings so make sure to also pack a sweater and a windbreaker. For you to sleep well, we recommend that you bring a pair of long-johns and some woolly socks. Today, buff wear is becoming increasingly popular so you might want to get a Buff scarf for your trip. Well, you are most likely to find many places where it is possible to swim, so throw in your swimsuit. A pair of Jungle shoes is a must but you will be more comfortable if you also pack a decent pair of sandals for everyday wear.

    You need to carry medicine. Away from any regular prescription medicines, we suggest that you always travel with a very small emergency pack that includes items sometimes not found in a normal first aid kit. In most cases, these may include blister plasters, soothing ointment for itches and scratches and something for aches, pains and headaches. Most importantly, you may have difficulty in finding medication for vomiting, stomach cramps or diarrhea when you’re out in the bush, so travel prepared. In Uganda, there is a problem of, malaria. Therefore, you should not forget your malaria prophylactics and some mosquito repellent.

    Come along with your travel documents most especially your passport. You will also be required to carry a valid driver’s license and proof that you have had the appropriate vaccinations and also make sure to have one or two photocopies of your travel documents, passports, and driver’s licenses, among the others. Store each set in a different place in your vehicle. Usually, there is nothing worse than being stranded in a foreign country without any paperwork. Also make sure that your digital camera and zoom lens are packed. Our cars are equipped with a variety of safari vehicles with a variety of power points and a USB interface so that you can charge your camera and any other electronic devices that you need to bring along. Also carry Binoculars. It is highly recommend that you pack a good pair of Binoculars.

    There are sundry items which you need to carry. Usually these small items make life on safari easier. Also you may wish to throw in a small torch, a pocketknife, and perhaps even spare batteries for the devices that cannot be charged. As a tourist, you should, do not forget to pack your toiletries and feminine hygiene products; a towel or two and any other small items of a personal nature that you cannot afford to leave behind.

  • Explore Akagera National Park

    Located in the eastern part of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is an amazing place to enjoy sightseeing in Rwanda. The park lies near the border with Tanzania and can be visited anytime if the year.

    It was gazetted in 1934 covering an area of 1122 km sq. and was named after the river Akagera that flows through this park pouring its waters in the Lake Victoria. The park is a home to unique wildlife and bird species including the rare shoe bill stork a bird sought after by many birders. The major mammals in the park include zebras, elephants, Topi, bush back, water back, duiker, impala, Oribi, bohor reedbuck and primates like olive baboons, L’Hoest and blue monkeys. Recently lions were reintroduced in the park and they were got from South Africa.

    Getting There

    To get to the park, it only takes about 2-3 hours from the Kigali and it only has one park entrance at Kiyonza south of the park and the only exit is at Nyungwe gate north of the park

    Where to Stay

    There are very few accommodation facilities in this national park only two lodges and camp sites. Those interested in luxurious facilities use Akagera Game Lodge or Ruzizi tented lodge therefore tourists should make their bookings early enough. For those looking tp deluxe, Akagera Game lodge offers a deluxe wing while for those on a shoestring budget Akagera Guest House is the available option.

    Things to Do in the Park

    Birding, Game drives, boat cruises on Lake Ihema, sport fishing, community walks are the major activities one can engage in while at the national park.

    Excursions and Tours

    There are organised safaris to the park offered by several tour operators in Rwanda. The shortest trip is the 2 Day Wildlife Safari though an excursion is also possible. There are also guides and cars hire services are available for tourists interested in self driven wildlife expeditions in the park however booking for them in advance is highly recommended.

  • 10 Uganda Safari Accessories That A Traveler Should Have

    On any safari in Uganda, the hardest part in preparations is to decide on whether to do a gorilla safari in Bwindi impenetrable national park, wildlife safari or rather a cultural safari in Uganda. Uganda being a country with diverse attractions that cannot be fully explored in only one trip, travelers, especially first time safari goers face the hardship of deciding on what to do.

    However with the help of the many tour companies operating in Uganda, visitors have got some guidance. Now the hardest part that still lacks and challenges almost 90% of the trotters on Uganda safaris is knowing what to pack particularly on a self-drive safari in Uganda.

    The inconvenience of a huge or an extra luggage is unbearable on any safari trip, comfort is a major factor to consider. For any safari adventure, trotters should be ready for any emergencies as well as have fun. It is very easy to pack minimally yet maximizing the storage capacity.

    Here are the simple safari accessories that one would pack for a Uganda self-drive safari trip to serve in all situations on the trip.

    Backpack. Most travelers, especially those that are to spend more than three days out opt for suitcases and trolley bags when setting out on a Uganda safari trip. But a backpack is the most obvious choice for any trip. Choose a high quality waterproof backpack with many compartments designed for the great outdoors. It should be comfortable and convenient.

    Mini first aid kit. It is very common that most trotters on self-driven safaris in Uganda majorly focus on camping and clothing gears and then overlook the first aid kit while packing for a safari. Remember that simple accidents can always occur and it’s very easy to get a stomach upset or colds in a strange area. Walking through the thick jungles while trekking the gorillas in Uganda can easily cause simple cuts and bruises by the wild leaves, here a well-equipped first aid kit can work until when proper medication is attained.

    Binoculars. Any safari checklist is incomplete without binoculars to admire the majestic and beautiful sights that nature presents. Binoculars help in viewing far objects and animals, have clearer sights in detail and also closely observe the impressive wildlife without any disturbance on either nature walks or game drives in Uganda.

    Multi-tools. These have a variety of functions in one durable item.  This reduces on the items to carry, instead of packing, screwdrivers, knives, can openers, scissors, tweezers, and maybe blades, simply have one multi-tool. It’s something that is very essential on any outdoor activity, be it an African safari or not.

    Sunglasses. This are needed almost for every safari as some destinations have high temperatures and sun exposure. Shades protect travelers from the direct sun rays from hitting their eyes, something that can even cause sores on the eyes. Ensure that you get comfortable and perfectly fitting sunglasses as you might be wearing them most of the day time.

    Insect repellant. Either not thinking about it, or assuming that they will find mosquito nets, most travelers tend to forget the insect repellants. It’s true that most hotels offer mosquito nets, but what about if you are to camp. Being a safari tour in Uganda, visitors are likely to spend most of their time in the wilderness. And on a self-driven safari, this means being in the wilderness on your own, so you need to be your own protector.

    USB electronic charger. The fact that trotters carry several gadgets while on any trip in Uganda, they are likely to shut down at moments when you most need them as you will be spending long hours out. So in order not to limit your gadget usage, carry a portable charger with a power bank to help you out in case of a battery black out.

    Water purifier. Even if bottled water is widely available in all national parks of Uganda, plus other simple shops and restaurants in the local communities, it is also important to carry a water purifier. The hiking trails in Bwindi, or a nature walk in Lake Mburo national park might leave you with only water from the springs, rivers and lakes as drinking sources. So to guarantee your safety, come along with a water purifier.

    Travel journals. We all forget too soon the things we thought we could not forget and journaling helps travelers to note down the special moments they would not love to forget at any time in their lives. While in the African jungle, record down the way you see life in this strange land to help you tell better stories and blog posts when finally home. Always remember to opt for leather travel journals as they are in most cases water proof.

    Camera. If not all, then most of the world trotters are photographers especially for wildlife. Photography is one things that surely catches your mind the moment you first step in Uganda. There is simply something about Uganda’s wonders that forces trotters to pull out their cameras to take selfies with the gorillas, pictures of the beautiful falls or landscapes. So a camera is one accessory all travelers should not leave behind in order to capture the striking moments on a safari tour in Uganda.

    A travel checklist is always incomplete without any of the above accessories, ensure you have them on any Uganda trip to spice up your adventure with ease and comfort.

     

     

     

  • Top 5 Uganda Safari Experiences

    Uganda, small as it is will usher you into the beauty beyond your imagination. The country will give you every kind of experience from hiking the snow capped mountain, adrenaline adventures, birding safaris, striding at the equator, boat and launch cruise to mention but a few. Highlighted below are the top safari experiences in Uganda.

    Gorilla tracking experience

    For every traveler, gorilla tracking is the highlight because these endangered species are tourism gem. Mountain gorillas are found in Uganda, Rwanda and democratic republic of Congo but only Uganda host a big percentage population in the whole world. It is an amazing and lifetime experience moving up and down in the steep tropical rain forest amidst thorns, shrubs to finally meet a gentle shy family of mountain gorillas going about their day. If you have not considered gorilla tracking, this is an experience not to miss while on a Uganda safari. Gorilla tracking involves spending one hour with a selected gorilla family observing their ways from playing, feeding and resting mean while you can also take photographs as many as you want but with caution flash photography is prohibited and stay back away form the gorillas 7 meters. This helps them to keep calm and not feel threatened.

    Gorilla habituation experience

    This is an awesome experience that most people don’t take so much important but gorilla habituation is the kind of behind scenes of to what a fully habituated gorilla family is. The experience involves spending 3 full hours in the tropical rain forest with a semi habituated family going through the habituation process. Gorilla habituation experience goes in depth to understand the process the mountain gorillas go through before they are open for tourism. The experience involves taming the mountain gorillas look at human beings not as a threat thus you will behave friendly while with them. For example walking on knuckles, chewing on the green leaves. Gorilla habituation is only in Bwindi forest national park Rushaga sector.

    Game viewing safari experience

    Uganda has ten national parks and countable number of game reserves where there is beauty in the wilderness. Fortunately, they are all open for tourism and only your choice on a Uganda safari will limit you. The parks include; Murchison falls national park, queen Elizabeth national park, lake Mburo national park to mention but a few. These parks have notable mammal species like lions, leopard, jackals, elephants, herds of buffaloes, giraffes, hyenas, warthogs, crocodiles, hippopotamus among other. All these can be viewed on a game drive safari in any of the national parks not forgetting the famous tree climbing lions of Ishasha sector queen Elizabeth national park.

    Primate Walk Experience

    The notable primate while on a Uganda safari is chimpanzee, our little cousin sharing 98% DNA with humans. Visit Kibale national park, the primate capital to meet the naughty chimps in the rain forests, you can as well track or participate in the chimpanzee habituation experience all in Kibale. Other places to see the chimps include queen Elizabeth national park in Kariju forest, Imaramagambo forest and Budongo forest in Murchison falls national park. Besides chimpanzee there are other primate species and these are the black-and-white colobus, red-tailed monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, l’hoest and blue monkeys, olive baboons, patas monkeys and the only remaining endemic specie golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

    Cultural Experience

    Uganda is not only beautiful and gifted with nature it has is a stunning with a mix of cultures from north, east, west and central Uganda. There are great places to visit and dig more into the tradition and rich cultural history of Uganda. Visit the Ik people of Karamojong a small tribe of people at Mount Murongole who are cattle keepers, the Batwa people of the south western Uganda, they are commonly known as the first people of the forest who lived there for ages before they were convicted in 1992 to conserve the mountain gorillas. Compliment your Uganda safari with a cultural experience and enjoy the traditional dances and music, food and rich history of the various ethnic groups.

  • 10 African Safari Photography Tips You Should Know

    A safari tour to Africa’s wilderness destination has been described as life changing experience. You might be traveling as an individual or in a family but the most exciting moment in life is photographing Africa’s most fascinating wildlife species while they are in their natural habitat. Photographers whether amateur or professional, a chance to shoot these amazing wild animals in their entire wilderness can be tiring and stressing. Shooting wildlife species in the savanna national parks is never same as that in the zoo. Besides just dealing with far distances between you and the species, you will also encounter the dust along most of the remotest protected, traffic jams, shortage of power to charge your gargets and many more. For those who are planning their safaris and also desire to have lifetime experiences, it is important that you spend time planning your practical gear, backing up tactics and prepare mentally for your safari. Like any photographer, you may have your dream images that you need to capture when you set yourself into one of Africa’s remotest protected areas and at such a moment, you do not wish to encounter any barriers in your equipment, battery or stressful vies to come your way. With this, below are some of the safari photography tips and information to guide you

    1. Be prepared for the safari by investing in a long lens

    Wildlife safari destination whether Uganda or any other national park in Africa photographing the wild animals is totally different from taking photos of wildlife species in the zoo. At the zoo, visitors can get nearer to the species and then take the photos with or without any barriers. At the wilderness destinations, wild animals are untamed and move freely. This however denotes that a long lens is basic in order for you to take the detailed and clear wildlife shots. This applies to photographing big wildlife species from a pop up safari vehicle especially the lions, hippos, elephants, buffaloes, as well as reaching deep into the thick gorilla and bird habitat while hiking. A 400mm lens is recommended for you to take the best photos of lifetime and also texture or patterning the animal skin, feathers or fur. The canons 100 to 400mm, L. Nikon 80 to 400mm or sigma 150 to 500mm and for those who may not in position get one, a short term rental term plan can be an option for you. Further more, best zoom lens, and pack a wide angle of about 10 to 22mm and medium lens 24mm to 100mm to get the spectacular landscapes pictures and in situ animal images. In case you have 2 bodies, maintain a wide or medium lens on one and zoom lens on an alternate. By so doing, you would have reduced the need to change lenses while on a safari.

    2. Respect wildlife species

    You can not predict the behavior of wild animals while in the wild. Always follow the guides instructions no matter how attractive an image can be, do not jump out of the car not until you feel it is safe for you. Hippopotami are famous for turning aggressive towards photographers who try to get to access the best shots. In case you are on a walking tour, maintain your wits about you and be near to the guide. Most of these wildlife species have grown up in the area and highly tuned to the sounds and smells in their surrounding and any likely dangers which may be lurking in the close distance.

    3. You need a supportive bean bag

    While on walking safaris, you may chance set up a tripod but on a pop up safari or jeep safari vehicle, it can be challenging especially when you are in the same car with the rest of visitors. And incase there are lions around you may not just jump out and set one up. The packing bean bag to support and rest your lens on the side of the car won’t only assist you to reduce Camera shake but will also help you rest your hand while waiting for a cheetah or lion to wake up from sleeping.

    4. Back the camera up-the memory cards, storage and batteries

    It hurts setting into the jungle or being on safari and you encounter a lion or mountain gorilla and your camera is dead or its memory is full. Memory cards are very affordable today that you have no excuse of not packing an extra one in your bag for emergency. This doesn’t only meant that you can continue shooting frames at highest speed possible but you will also have replacement in case one dies off while you are in the middle of the forest or open savanna grassland with lots of lions. Do not limit yourself, get three frames per second or simply get at least one or two batteries as part of your spare especially for those who plan to camp out overnight and may not have a chance to recharge. The other option can be for you to get yourself an inverter to charge the power from the safari vehicle or solar charger. Or in case you do not have a laptop and a portable hard drive to back up the pictures every night, there are portable photo storage devices which can quickly backup memory cards when inserted, saving you from the heavy load of laptop and also extra costs of getting such electronics. You are advised to safe guard your memory cards and backups in various areas in case one goes missing or gets lost in luggage transport.

    5. You will need a GPS

    GPS is very important for safari especially when you want to locate where took the pictures in the destination. You can get at motion XGPS for the iphones which can download the maps to be used offline.

    6. Safari peak hour hassles

    At times, you may remain alone with the largest number of wildlife which gives you higher chance of getting the best site for you to take their images. In some other time, it will be completely gridlock as 10 cars can be struggling to surround the lion or leopard; this however requires you to be patient enough. In case you fail to get the best position to shoot, simply relax and enjoy being there in the moment while viewing the action. The fortunate bit of it is that safari drivers and guides have always taken hundreds of tours and are aware of visitor need for amazing shots, meaning soon as they get into an area with the great wild creatures, they will simply make a stop at a better position.

    7. Carry a notepad or book

    The picture of a rhino portrays a lot more when you get to know the real species, its threatened status or behavioral characters. Knowledge gives substance to photographs and creates context for the visitor on safari. In case the guide gives a snippet of cultural insight, note it down, along with the local and common names of both animals and plants that you will meet your way. In case you are not in position to keep them while on safari, request the guide to go through it once more when you return to pack and reference the information next to the relevant image number.

    8. Be creative with composition

    The eyes are what attract the viewer into portrait images and this also applies to wild animals. In case you are taking with a zoom lens, target sharply on your subject eyes top get entrancing shots. Do not forget to be creative also with artistic shots which come with the animal and within the context of their landscape. In case they are looking off into the distance to the left, frame them on the right to make a sense of reflection or speculation. Where there is a striking natural feature or tree around, position it to one side of the animal. Do not forget the rule of thirds when planning your composition and be aware about vegetation clutter immediately behind the wildlife species that can easily bar you from its prominence within the final image. In case you can not escape the clutter, turn to a larger aperture such that it softens out of focus.

    9. Shooting a dawn and dusk

    For most safaris in Uganda or any destination in Africa, they start early in the morning or late afternoon because these the times when the wildlife species are at their most active moment. It is important that you take the advantage of the low and soft light conditions to get some engaging and attracting shots like animals while they are silhouetted against their landscape or long exposure images which depict the naturalness of their area. Simply play with the changing light conditions as the sun slowly emerges or disappears and sight the way it highlights objects on the landscape when it is above the horizon.

    10. Put the camera down

    It is so simple to get caught up in capturing via the lens each movement of every wild animal you meet on safari that you forget to experience this remarkable species with your own eyes. This requires you to still force yourself to put the camera down for some minutes during safari and simply take in the magic. Whereas you do your best to covey the drama, beauty and or intrigue of encounters via your images, there are some sensations that can only be grasped by living the moment first hand and you do not need to leave Africa regretting that missed chance.

    BONUS: You will need a pop up safari vehicle

    Unlike primate trekking in the thick forest that you simply walk through the forest, wildlife viewing especially for the big game like lions, you may not get out of the car and this is why you need to a pop up vehicle that allow you to have clear views and also take photos while in a vast savanna vegetation.

    In conclusion, safari photography can only be enjoyable if the above tips are fully followed. The above tips are important in that they guide you while trekking apes like mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and others as well as when you are in wildlife viewing in savanna grassland destinations where you may not allowed to get out of the car. The benefit the viewers as well as protect the lives of the species in their natural habitat.

  • How to Safari in Style: Our Expert Tips

    Safaris are once-in-a-lifetime holidays that require a lot of planning and saving. Would you like to enjoy an African safari in style? To get all the things right and plan a perfect safari, there are tips and advisories that you should follow. Nicholas of Africa Tours Adventure has put forward the following tips to plan a luxury safari in Africa.

    Set your budget

    Your budget determines how much you will enjoy your safari. It’s good to make a plan of how much you are willing to spend and start saving for it than go for than rush in unplanned expense.

    Pick your travel month

    Africa has  good climate all around year, the temperature are cool, the rain is moderate and favorable for travelling, however you need to set your season to travel, for example during dry season most wildlife tend to move further and migrate in such of greener pasture while rainy season brings them closer because there is plenty of food and water.

    Plan your visa and tickets

    Plan your visa entry ticket for the African country you want travel for a safari, check the entire requirement including the medical requirements like yellow fever vaccines, hep B, polio and others. Book your air tickets to avoid last minute panic.

    Select your safari provider or tour operator

    It’s time to search for the best tour operator, they are very many on the market and very sure you will get the best,who will take care of your safari needs.

    Discuss your desired safari activities

    Africa is too way big to explore, there are so many eye catching features like game drives, gorilla safaris, hiking safaris, birding safaris, it’s at this stage you let your tour operator know your interests to plan your safari better.

    Check you packing list

    Get  your bag to pack and look around for what you will need for you to safari in style, reach out to your hiking boots, light trousers and shirts, rain coats, safari hats  and warm jackets to mention but a few.

    Acquire good safari gadgets

    A safari is incomplete without a memory to hold on, acquire yourself a good camera and pair of binoculars because some of the beauty may not come close to you but you will be able to capture them in a distance.

    Relax your mind and enjoy you’re African safari

    Take a deep breath and let good moments carry on. You will find everything and anything on your African safari fascinating from hospitable people to nature its self.

  • Books to Take on an African Safari

    I don’t like taking books when I travel. They add a lot of weight to my luggage and I’m usually having too much fun to open a book anyway. So I normally just take my Kindle, which I rarely end up opening either.

    When traveling to Southern Africa though, things change. My day pack is filled with books, and it’s heavy. But we’re always glad we did.

    Here is a list of our recommendations for what books to take on an African Safari: (This only applies to Southern Africa: Namibia, Botswana and South Africa).

    Watching Wildlife Guides

    Watching Wildlife Southern Africa by Lonely Planet

    This is a great guide, not just for planning your first trip but for consulting while on the road. It has the most comprehensive information about where and when to see all your favorite African animals, from mammals and birds to reptiles and marine life.

    The book is organized by different sections.

    •  Nature in Southern Africa: a little introduction to Southern Africa’s natural history.
    •  Wildlife Watching: general tips about finding wildlife. Also tips about how to get there and some photography advice.
    •  Habitats: Introduction to the habitats of Southern Africa, including savannas, grasslands, mountains, and deserts.
    •  Parks and Places: Countries and parks of Southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia)
    •  Wildlife Gallery: Animal guide with photos and information about the best places to see each species.

    If you only want to take one book, this is the one to consider. Our copy shown here is the 2001 edition. A newer 2009 edition is also available.

    Mammal Guides of Southern Africa

    We normally take two, which may be overkill, but we have a hard time leaving either of these two behind because we are hardcore mammal-lovers.

    1) The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon

    Comprehensive guide and valuable identification tool. Each species comes with text regarding measurements, recognition, habitat, food, and status. They also include distribution maps and illustrations. Some descriptions also include information about behavior, seasonal adaptations, and genealogy.

    Sometimes it is not very clear if an illustration goes with the text above or below it, making it a somewhat imperfect identification guide. However, it is still the most comprehensive African mammal field guide we’ve come across.

    I also recommend that when visiting a South African national park, you pick up the official park map which includes several pages of animal illustrations at the back. These show the mammal species that occur within the park and will help you narrow down your choices quickly.

    Once you’ve successfully identified the species, move on to the next book…

    2) The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes

    This is a great guide once you have identified the animal. Over 550 pages of behavioral information as well as species’ traits, distribution, ecology, social organization and activity. This book is really useful to decipher the behaviors you are watching, whether they be social, agonistic, anti-predator, sexual, or parent/offspring behavior.

    I love this book. It is great to learn about the wildlife we are watching and it is great entertainment while we are waiting for animals to turn up at a waterhole.

    There are no photographs in the book, just illustrations, but these are excellent and depict a wide range of fascinating behaviors.

    The only downside is that this book is now 20 years old. I was shopping for a newer edition and when I found it I was disappointed to learn that the only thing that had changed was the cover.  It seems to me that so much wildlife research has been done in the past two decades that this book really deserves an update.

    But it is still my favorite.

    Bird Guides of Southern Africa

    Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey, and Warwick Tarboton

    This is a truly excellent bird identification guide. The illustrations are on par with the great Sibley guide of North America and they depict a range of plumage variations (such as differences in gender, age, or region.) This comprehensive list includes each of the 900 plus species which occur in Southern Africa.

    A brief description and range map appear conveniently on the same page as each illustration. This description is aimed almost entirely at helping the reader identify the species and to point out similar species with which they might easily be confused.

    What you won’t find is extensive behavioral, feeding, or breeding information about species. This book is designed to help you figure out who you’re looking at, and it does that well. One of my favorite features is the Quick Reference which appears inside the front and back covers. It shows illustrations of approximately 120 commonly-sighted birds that are representative of their group, and a page number where to find them.

    Signs, Tracks, and Poo

    Signs of the Wild by Clive Walker

    This little book is great for people interested in the tracks and droppings of Southern Africa’s mammals.

    For each species, the author includes a distribution map within Southern Africa, as well as a description of the animal, its diet, and its faeces. But most useful are the life-size illustrations of the animal’s tracks, as well as photos and illustrations of their poops. Many species also include a handy illustration of the skull.

    The only drawback to this book is that no birds, reptiles, amphibians or invertebrates are included.

    Scatalog by Kevin Murray

    This is my latest acquisition. I actually got it in the Johannesburg airport on the way back from our last trip to South Africa. Even though we were leaving, I just had to get it. This is the guide that I would like to have published.

    As the title says, this is a catalog of scats, a guide to poo. This little book is fascinating (if you like poop, like me). There are 40 pages full of photos of droppings, most at life size, the rest with a scale so you know how big they really are. Each species includes a brief written explanation as well. This is a nice, small, light guide and is easy to carry along in your pocket.

    What I really like about this guide is that it covers mammals as well as some birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Now you’ll know what termite poo looks like.

    Before you Go on a Safari

    Get your hands on Cry of the Kalahari by Mark and Delia Owens.

    It’s the true story of two young zoologists who in the early 70′s set off for Botswana to live in the Kalahari (did I tell you the Kalahari is my favorite place on Earth?)

    If you’ve ever dreamed of living in pure wilderness surrounded by amazing wildlife, you’ll get hooked on Cry of the Kalahari.

    It is one of my favorite books of all time.

    Planning your Safari

    When it comes to planning your safari, we recommend you consult Africa’s Finest. It is a guide to the most responsible and sustainable destinations and lodges in Africa. It is also a beautiful work of art born out of a love for nature.

    The foreword, written by  WWF‘s CEO Mornè du Plessis, states, “That is the real message of Africa’s Finest, that those operations that follow sustainable and renewable tourism models and partnerships, will be the ones that secure a future for the wildlife, the extraordinary cultures and people living in or around game reserves, as well as the very land on which all this depends“.

    Good news! Get it before the 1st of July 2013 and get a 40% discount, so if I were you I would buy it now.

    What About My Kindle?

    I still take my kindle wherever I go. I have downloaded the ebook versions of each of the country guides we need, just in case. But I admit I hate having to search for anything in a country guide on my kindle. It is a pain. And don’t even ask me to try and find something using a town map in one of these digital guides. The resolution is generally poor and the images are often divided up so much that they become unusable. I would love to take a paper version the way I used to, but since our other books take up so much weight, we have to prioritize. And the above list always makes it with us to Africa.

  • 10 Fascinating Facts About Mountain Gorillas

    Many people love the gorillas!  There are two species of gorillas – the eastern gorilla and the western gorilla. Each of these is divided into two subspecies – eastern lowland and western lowland gorillas. The two species live in central Africa, separated by a vast swathe of rain forest.

    Of all the gorilla species, it is a luxury to see the mountain gorillas. This is due to the fact that the mountain gorillas are only found in three countries in the world; Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Going on a mountain gorilla trek in the impenetrable jungles of Bwindi or the Virunga is one of the best wildlife experiences you can ever take in Africa.

    1. Gorillas share human DNA. 

    Gorillas are special primates sharing over 98% of their DNA with humans.

    1. Mountain gorillas are as shy though strong.

    Locals living near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park know this for a fact! A mountain gorilla will never chase you when you are facing it and looking directly into its eyes. However, you should know that when threatened they can be aggressive. They beat their chests and let out angry grunts and roars, something they learn from an early stage. It is a responsibility of the makes to protect the individuals in the group. In serious times of “wars” group leaders often silver backs or black backs will charge at the threat and mothers will fight to the death to protect their young ones.

    1. Gorilla size

    Amongst all the apes, the gorillas are the world’s largest. It is also the largest among primates in the world. They are closely related to humans, with 98% of their DNA identical to that of Homo sapiens.

    1. Intelligent apes

    Gorillas are highly intelligent. They use tools and have various methods of communication, including some 25 different sounds. One famous captive-born individual, Koko, has been taught sign language since she was a year old. By the age of 40, she had a library of about 1,000 signs and could understand some 2,000 words of English.

    1. Feeding

    Gorillas are mainly herbivores. They spend most of their day foraging for bamboo, fruit and leafy plants, though western lowlands also eat small insects. Adult gorillas can eat up to 30kg of food each day.

    1. Gorillas have nesting instincts

    Gorillas build nests in which to sleep, both on the ground and in trees, made of leaves and branches. Counting abandoned nests is an effective way for scientists to estimate population size.

    1. Female productivity

    Females usually produce just one baby every four to six years. In total, a female will only give birth three or four times. Such a low reproduction rate makes it difficult for populations to bounce back following a decline.

    1. Mountain gorillas live in groups of up to 30.

    The largest gorilla group or family ever studied is in Rwanda and is led by Cants bee now 38 years old! A gorilla family is led by a silverback. These troops also include several younger males, adult and juvenile females, and infants.

    1. Aged male gorillas are called silverbacks.

    This name originates from the silver stripe they develop on their backs when they mature. The silver hair can be compared to the grey hair that humans develop.

    1. The silverback gorillas ensure protection of the group.

    In addition to providing protection to group members, silverbacks maintain order and decide all activities within their troop. They schedule feeding trips, resting time, and travel. They also father the majority of the young in the group.

  • Gorilla Trekking Vs Gorilla Habituation Experience

    There are two amazing adventure activities that involve visitors hiking in the impenetrable jungles of Bwindi to see the mountain gorillas. At times, visitors are confused with which adventure to take on during their safaris to Bwindi in Western Uganda. Here we try to compare gorilla habituation with gorilla tracking.

    Would you like to opt for gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi impenetrable forest in Uganda? Below is a comparison between the two experiences in Uganda that will allow you to choose what is right for you.

    Both Adventures Explained

    Gorilla trekking is the most popular adventure taken in the ancient rain forest of Bwindi. This activity involves hiking into the forest and watching of the mountain gorillas for up to one hour. This activity was developed along guidelines of ecotourism. Elsewhere this activity is done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda.

    Gorilla Habituation is a new activity developed in Bwindi Impenetrable national park. This adventure involves hiking in the wild jungles of Bwindi and watching the mountain gorillas for a period of up to 4 hours.

    What is the Best Activity to Undertake?

    What is the right activity for me financially? For many tourists, their choices narrow down to the amount of money it takes and there is a difference in price between the two activities. The permits for gorilla trekking in Uganda are at $600. On the other hand, gorilla habituation costs USD 1500 per perosn. This means that gorilla trekking is cheaper by US$900 than gorilla habituation. The permit for the gorilla habituation is at $1500 per person. The difference $900 for many is worth it since you have more time with the gentle giants of the forests.

    Over 60% of the tourists choose Habituation over trekking because of the extras one receives while with the gorillas on the habituation Experience. The same rules also apply to gorilla habituation however distance from the gorillas is in the rules but is mostly violated by gorillas and not humans.

    A normal gorilla trek is 3 hours and depending on the group that you are to track while gorilla habituation experience is longer. You are with the gorillas for 4 hours plus the time it takes to hike in and out to where the group is located that day. The location of any group depends up to 1 kilometre a day and the pre trackers are out at the crack of dawn of finding the location of the group you will be with on that day.

    1 hour with the mountain gorillas is a worthwhile experience, while 4 hours with the family of gorillas is an ultimate dream. Those who love taking up close pictures of the gentle giants of the forest prefer the experience of habituation.

    The Normal trek takes 8 participants on the activity while the habituation Experience trek takes only 4 participants, this means that the experience is going to be exclusive for you. You will also learn more about the gorillas, their ways, and habits, daily routines from the researchers and trackers that will join you on your trek. Not only are there very few participants, there are also few porters, staff, support staff, which gives you more time to focus on what you came for. There have been many words of thanks from participants in the Habituation experience that is only offered in Uganda. It’s not offered in Rwanda or DRC. It’s a very unique activity offered in Uganda.

    The Gorilla habituation takes places in Rushaga area of Bwindi impenetrable Forest since trekking is mainly carried out from Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, Rushaga areas of the park. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is in one location and in Uganda, it’s from 5 locations inside Bwindi Impenetrable National park as well as Mgahinga gorilla park, Rushaga and Nuringo can be reached from Kigali, Rwanda is 3 hours while it takes so longer to travel to the Buhoma Or Ruhija Area of Bwindi impenetrable National park. The sector of Rushaga and Nkuringo are the most convenient locations if you are to fly from Kigali Rwanda, from here there is 3 hour drive to the southern areas of Bwindi impenetrable Forest.

    Gorilla habituation experience since it was started, its inception has been a famous activity with our clients, Over 60% of those who want to see the mountain gorillas in the wild choose gorilla habituation adventure over the common Gorilla trekking. Their main reason is the time that is spent with the gorilla family in habituation experience verses Gorilla trekking and these like being with those that are involved in the Habituation process, the knowledge and insights they get from them is so rewarding. The cost is not the main factor since the tourists who choose the habituation experience want a kind of activity that they can be part of where there are only 4 participants and it’s a learning experience.

    There are some mythologies in regards to the habituation experience and the two gorilla families are very used to the Humans and have been habituated for over two years, you are as close to them as you are during a gorilla trek, the gorillas may however get closer than the rules call for since they don’t own internet.

  • Top 3 South Africa Romantic Vacation Ideas

    Our Top 3 Romantic Vacations, Ideas & Honey Moon Safaris In South Africa

    • The Outpost – This was one of our favorites. Romance, scenic splendor, great wildlife & great food …we could have stayed here a week or more. Perched on a cliff where the eagles soar below you – that’s right the eagles soar below you – this lodge is located in the extreme northern edge of Kruger National Park. Stunning vistas of mountains in the distance, a river valley below, very good game viewing and excellent food. We can’t wait to go back! The problem is that there are so many wonderful places to put on your list of South Africa tours to do. Though in early 2007 it had a change of ownership.
    • Illyria House – A very small luxury hotel with fine art, classical music, and exceptional food and service. This place is ideal for a romantic getaway or a prelude to your safari – the perfect place to recover from the international flight into South Africa. So this is a great place to start or end South Africa tours that include Pretoria. Also a very strong recommendation if you are going on either of South Africa’s world class luxury trains, The Blue Train or The Rovos Rail. Both luxury trains arrive in or depart from Pretoria.Though this is a Pretoria hotel but it is the same traveling distance from Johannesburg International Airport as are the best Johannesburg hotel.
    • The Blue Train – this is an exceptional experience. We’ve been on South Africa tours that included the Blue Train three times and never tire of it. You have five star luxury as you roll through some of South Africa’s most beautiful areas. You have a 24 hour private butler, exquisite meals and some wonderful excursions when the train stops. Even if you don’t think you like train travel, this is an unparalleled experience you should try. I am a very active person – I like to work out, run, etc, but I really liked this experience.

    Click here to learn more about the Blue Train

    Click here to learn more about Rovos Rail, the other great South African luxury train