A whole new World of Adventure - Low Water Rafting

...For you who love the kick of Adrenaline the Low Water Rafting is to commence in approximately one week. 

The Zambezi River levels are dropping by an average of 1cm per day, which means that the start of the Low Water Rafting Season will commence in about 7 days from now. Low Water is the best rafting season for white-water adventure seekers.
The Zambezi River, which borders Zimbabwe and Zambia, is widely acclaimed as offering the world’s best white-water rafting run in the world. With a large number of it’s turbulent rapids which occur in the Batoka Gorge (below the Victoria Falls) achieving a high ‘Grade-5’ status or higher, adventure enthusiasts revere its reputation across the globe. Even the rapid names are enough to get the adrenalin pumping - from “Stairway to Heaven to “The Gnashing Jaws Of Death”, and “The Overland Truck Eater”

Grades of white water:

Grade 1: Very small rough areas, might require slight maneuvering. (Skill level: very basic)
Grade 2: Some rough water, maybe some rocks, might require some maneuvering. (Skill level: basic paddling skill)
Grade 3: Whitewater, small waves, maybe a small drop, but no considerable danger. May require significant maneuvering.
Grade 4: Whitewater, medium waves, maybe rocks, maybe a considerable drop, sharp maneuvers may be needed.
Grade 5: Whitewater, large waves, large volume, possibility of large rocks and hazards, possibility of a large drop, requires precise maneuvering.
Grade 6: Class 6 rapids are considered to be so dangerous that they are effectively unnavigable on a reliably safe basis. Rafters can expect to encounter substantial whitewater, huge waves, huge rocks and hazards, and/or substantial drops that will impart severe impacts beyond the structural capacities and impact ratings of almost all rafting equipment. Traversing a Class 6 rapid has a dramatically increased likelihood of ending in serious injury or death compared to lesser classes. 

News:
Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Please take note of the following information released by South African Tourism on the recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa:

We have noted with concern recent media reports related to the Ebola virus. While we understand the concern about this virus, which is fatal in nature, it is imperative to take note of the following:

Ebola is a virus transmitted primarily via bodily fluids. It is not airborne. As such, it is still safe to make use of our airlines.
The incidents of infection and death are reported and prevalent in West African countries, most notably Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone and the DRC. South Africa does not share borders with any of the countries in that region, nor do our neighbouring countries.
The geo-location of the countries affected makes it very difficult for a person with the virus to enter the country via the land borders. Owing to the quick infection to fatality rate of this virus, people with the disease often succumb to the virus within a few days of infection.
The South African National Department of Health have stated unequivocally that there are no cases of Ebola in South Africa. Having said that, we remain on high alert for any potential threat or infection.

All relevant stakeholders across all our nine provinces have been adequately briefed and outbreak response teams in all provinces have been trained and are on high alert for any possible cases.
Body temperature sensors have been installed at OR Tambo International’s immigration queuing points to detect the body temperature of passengers. The airport also has a quarantine facility in an event that passengers are required to be held in isolation prior to be transferred for further treatment.
To safeguard against the deadly virus, a decision has been made by the South African National Department of Health that should a foreign national test positive, they will be denied entry into South Africa.
Our destination remains open to all who wish to come and visit South Africa, and South African Tourism will assist with all relevant information. 

Should you wish to receive more information on this edition, please contact us at:
info@southern-africa-travel.com or just visit www.southern-africa-travel.com for any of your travel needs.

Southern Africa - Must See Destinations

If you are looking for a unique and exotic vacation, something different from the ordinary, then you should consider Southern Africa.

The Garden Route
The Garden Route of South Africa lies on the southern coast just east of Cape Town and extends from Mossel Bay to the Storms River mouth. The Garden Route is bordered by the Outeniqua, Tsitsikamma, and Langekloof Mountain ranges to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. Here you will find Tsitsikamma National Park, the Knysna and Wilderness wetlands, relaxing beaches, hiking trails, and activities such as whale watching, sailing, and golf. This scenic coastal route is interspersed with a series of quaint and charming towns along the way. The climate is mild and the views are spectacular. The Cango Caves, one of South Africa's top ten most visited places, are located just north of the Garden Route. The Cango Caves are located close to Oudtshoorn, which is also the center of the South Africa ostrich farming industry. Many of the farms are open to visitors where you can tour the facilities, meet the birds up close, and even ride one! The Garden Route is a serene and beautiful part of South Africa, filled with astounding sights and plenty to do for both young and old.

Etosha National Park
Etosha National Parks is located in Namibia, one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Etosha is the third largest game reserve in Africa and has been recognized as one of the finer game viewing areas on the continent. Its main attraction is the so-called "Etosha Pan," an 80-mile saltpan that represents the remains of a large lake that used to fill the area. Here there are scattered waterholes that attract congregations of wildlife, particularly in the dry season from May to September. It is here that elephants, rare Black Rhinoceroses, prides of lions, cheetahs, and much more all roam in search of water. For one of Africa's most enthralling safari opportunities, you must visit Etosha.

Okavango Delta
For the more adventurous at heart the Okavango Delta, located in northern Botswana, is a veritable oasis of wildlife and natural wonder. This area is the world's largest inland delta, formed by the Okavango River, which begins in Angola and flows the Kalahari Desert, where it attracts wildlife from all over Africa. Described as "the river that never finds the sea," the Okavango disappears into a 6,000 square mile maze of channels and islands. With numerous lodges in this region, there is plenty to do. While in the Okavango a mokoro boat trip is a must. A mokoro is the local version of

a flat-bottomed canoe and is operated by a "poler" who uses a pole to push the boat forward and steer it accordingly. On a mokoro trip experienced guides lead you through the Delta as you silently glide down the channels and backwaters to places that are totally unreachable by any other mode of transport. Coming face to face with elephants crossing the waterways or herds of buffalos drinking from the Delta is nothing unusual. For those who enjoy bird life, the Delta has an incredible diversity of bird species. If you would prefer not to brave the water, there are a number of different safari options, either on foot or in four-wheel drive vehicles. With the game being so plentiful visitors to the area are often surprised at how close you can actually get to the animals. The Okavango Delta is a magnificent wonder of nature, perhaps one of our planet's greatest, and is still largely unspoiled making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Kruger National Park
Located in the northeast region of South Africa, Kruger National Park has some of the most spectacular game viewing in the world. With safari lodges scattered in and around the park, one thing is for sure, this is a once in a lifetime experience. Finding yourself face to face with a pride of lions (from a safe vantage point, of course) or seeing a herd of elephants cooling down at the local watering hole is something everyone should experience. In Kruger the animals are in their natural habitats and are free to roam the nearly five million acres that makes up the park. Kruger has one of the greatest varieties of wildlife species on the continent and is a world leader in enviromental management techniques and policies. it is a well managed park with incredible animals viewing and wonderful accommodations.

Victoria Falls
A visit to Africa would not be complete if you did not see Victoria Falls. Known to the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya (which means "the smoke that thunders"), Victoria Falls is classified as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Located between Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River, the Falls are a breathtaking and spectacular sight that have been known to leave viewers with a bit of moisture in their eyes - whether from the mist of the Falls or tears welling up is yet to be determined.

When David Livingstone first discovered the Falls he stated "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight." The number of possible activities here are endless, ranging from short safaris on elephant back to lazy evening sundowners aboard a boat on the Zambezi to bungee jumping in the gorge to helicopter flights over the falls. Victoria Falls is surely one of Africa's must-see wonders.

These are just a few of the many exciting and amazing places to visit in Southern Africa. 

For holiday ideas and more information, be sure to check out our websites:
www.southern-africa-travel.com

www.zimbabwe-reservations.com

www.botswana-reservations.com 

www.zambia-reservations.com
www.namibiareservations.com
____________________________________________________________________

Hoanib Skeleton Coast

Opening on 1 August 2014, Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is scenically located in a broad valley at the confluence of two tributaries of the Hoanib River in the northern part of the private Palmwag Concession. Its location thus straddles the Palmwag area and the iconic Skeleton Coast National Park, in one of the most remote areas of the Kaokoveld.

Exclusivity is taken a step further as camp is only accessible by light aircraft and the camp itself consists of only seven twin-bedded tents and one family unit, each comprising stylish en-suite bedrooms with shaded outdoors decks. Flanked to the east and west by rugged hills, the camp looks out over stunning, starkly beautiful scenery and offers guests all the luxuries and amenities for an unforgettable stay.

  

 

 Book an unforgettable stay at Hoanib Skeleton Coast today!

For more information please contact

  Namibia Reservations at: info@namibiareservations.com

Camping Tips For Camping with Children

Camping can be a wonderful way to introduce children to the beauty of South Africa national parks and nature reserves. They key to a good camping holiday lies in planning for every eventuality.

What is the right age to take them camping:

One of the biggest factors to take into account when taking children camping is their age. If they are young it is probably better to stay in a resort near civilization rather than a very remote area. That way if there is an emergency you can get help quickly. Keep in mind your child’s attention span and capabilities – you cannot expect a toddler to do gruelling hikes.
If you have small children, it’s probably not a good idea to go camping for more than a few days, as the chances are good that they will get bored and the novelty will wear off. Once this happens, they will become irritable and things can go downhill from there and you’ll have a disastrous camping holiday.

Planning

 Pack a comforting item such as a teddy, blanket, mug etcetera – a little something of home that will comfort them and calm them down if they get scared.

•     Packing is important. Remember to check what the weather is going to be like and pack accordingly. Always pack for both hot and cold weather as it can change quickly.

•     Pack lots of snacks. All the running around in the open air is likely to give the children a good appetite.

•     Pack extra clothing as the children are sure to get wet and dirty and will need a change of clothes.

•     Pack hats, sunscreen, insect repellent and don’t forget to pack water bottles and most importantly – the toilet paper!

•     Pack a basic first aid kit and check that none of the medicines inside it have expired. It is also a good idea for someone in the group to have knowledge of first aid as medical help is often a long way off.

 

 

General Safety Tips

•   Teach your child not to stray from camp and always stay within eyesight. Pick a boundary and make sure that your child knows not to wander beyond that point. For toddlers, make sure that they are within eyesight. Older children should be told to keep within hearing distance. In a new campsite the most dangerous time for a child is the first few hours after you arrive, as they have not yet got their bearings. This is why it is good to assign them tasks and let them help set-up camp.

•     Children get cold faster than adults and it is a good idea to dress them in several layers of clothing that can be removed or added as the day heats up and cools down.

•     Teach your child that if they get lost they should stay where they are. They can find a tree to sit under, but they will be easier to find if they do not try to find their own way home.

•     A good idea is to give them a whistle and teach them to blow it three times when they are lost and in trouble.

•     Give your child a flashlight. If there is more than one child, give each of the children their own flashlight as this will prevent fights. This will help them feel safer and find their way at night. The lights can be fun for reading by before bed or making shadow puppets on the wall of the tent.

•     Always pack a little extra water and food in the vehicle so that if you have an emergency, get stuck or stranded you will have some supplies.

 

The Amazing Balancing Rocks of Zimbabwe

Anywhere else you will go in in the world you would surely find some amazing rock formations. Balancing rocks are fascinating geological formations and are a popular tourist attractions.These fascinating formations can be man made or natural . There are several of these rock formation around the world and one of the amazing balancing rock formations is THE BALANCING ROCKS OF ZIMBABWE.

Africa is perceived by many as a wide area of jungle and forest because of the existenceof safari jungle in the continent.

But not known to many there are plenty of beautiful tourist attractions in Africa such as the Victoria Falls,Table Mountain, Kilimanjaro and many others.

• The Balancing Rocks are geomorphological features of igneous rocks found in many parts of Zimbabwe, and are particularly noteworthy in Matopos National Park and near the township of Epworth to the southeast of Harare.
  
• The formations are of natural occurrence in a perfectly balanced state without other support. Their popularity grew when the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe featured the formations on the last series of Zimbabwean banknotes
  
• The Balancing Rocks have been used as a metaphorical theme to explain the importance of development coupled with preserving the fragile environment of Zimbabwe as similar to that of the Balancing Rocks found in Epworth, Matopos and in other areas

Interesting Facts About the Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls have been billed as the Greatest Falling Curtain of Water on this Planet, making it one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

• The Victoria Falls is considered to be the largest waterfall in the world.They are not the widest waterfall or the highest waterfall but with all dimensions taken into account, including almost the largest flow rate, they are considered to be the biggest curtain of falling water in the world.
  
  
  

•  The Victoria Falls are 1700m wide and are made up of five different “falls”. Four of these are in Zimbabwe and one is in Zambia. They are known as The Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and Horseshoe Falls in Zimbabwe and the Eastern Cataract in Zambia
  
  
  

• At its highest point, in March/April, it is estimated that 500 million litres of water per minute flow over the Victoria Falls. During the dry season, it can be as low as 10 million litres. The 1958 flood of the Zambezi saw the Falls reach record volumes of over 770 million litres per minute. Only the Iguazu Falls rivals the Victoria Falls in these terms (its record being only slightly less, at 750 million litres per minute) but a dam has decreased this, although the Boyoma Falls (formerly Stanley Falls) in Congo (formerly Zaire) has a higher total annual flow. 
• The spray created from the plunging waters, forced up and out from the gorge, rises some 400m to 800m into the air, and can be seen from 30 to over 60 kilometres away, and is best witnessed in the cool hours of the early morning. As the water droplets condense they fall as localised rain, creating rainbows and supporting the rainforest on the opposite side of the gorge, which is especially well developed opposite the Main Falls on the Zimbabwe side.

Southern African Safari

Africa is a dream destination for travellers. It offers everything from thrilling action-adventure to sheer, indulgent opulence. African Safari Experts take the guesswork out of planning your journey, while the comprehensive African Safari Guide puts the fun into finding out where you want to go and what you want to see. 

 Africa's wide range of destinations means a multitude of different holiday experiences in both East Africa and Southern Africa. Some of the most popular include Big 5 Safaris in the Kruger National Park; wildebeest migration safaris in the Masai Mara and Serengeti; gorilla trekking in the forests of Uganda and Rwanda; beach holidays in Mauritius, the Seychelles and Mozambique; and cosmopolitan 'world-in-one-city' experiences in Cape Town.

 

  And then there's where to stay. From boutique guest houses and 5-star hotels to tented safari camps and beach resorts, accommodation in Africa is as varied as its landscapes and caters for every type of holiday from super-romantic honeymoons to family-friendly getaways. 

 

 The same could be said for the types of holidays and safaris on offer in Africa. Whether you're looking for a combination tour packed with highlights or a specialised safari in a single location.

Livingstone Museum, Zambia

The Livingstone Museum is located in the heart of the city of Livingstone.  Established in 1934, the Livingstone Museum is the oldest and largest of the four national museums in the country.  The museum holds a vast archaeological collection among which is evidence from the biggest trade market in central Africa and excavated finding of prehistoric Broken Hill man.  It also holds the largest collection of the biodiversity of Zambia as well as a rich ethnographic collection dating back to the early 20th century.  The museum also holds a vast collection of David Livingstone memorabilia, has one of the oldest libraries in the country and an extensive archive.

 The present Museum building was first opened in November 1950, although extensions have been added over the years. In 2003 the building underwent structural renovations and the public exhibitions were given a complete overhaul, bringing them up to date and enhancing them with modern and artistic ideas to make them more attractive to the visitor.

Collections:
The Museum holds the national collections in Archaeology, Ethnography, Art, History and various branches of Natural History. These collections comprise Zambia's largest collection of cultural artefacts and natural history specimens.  Among these is a large collection of artefacts relating to Dr. David Livingstone, from whom it got its name.
 Ethnography Section
The section contains the largest collection of cultural artefacts in Zambia, making up a total of over 12,000 collections.  These include basketry, blacksmith items, pottery and woodwork products.  It also holds a sizeable number of witchcraft objects and photographs on various aspects of local life from as far back as the 1920s.
 History Section
The section is the custodian of materials related to the traditional culture and the history of the people of Zambia. The section has in its collection, which numbers over 12,000 historical objects, rare historical documents, relics and obsolete firearms. The section's highly prized collections include Government publications of both the United Kingdom and the British South Africa Company (BSA Co.), North-eastern and North-western Rhodesia reports, Northern Rhodesian Government records, records related to the struggle for independence, Independence Day celebrations, economic, social and political activities in Zambia since independence in 1964 to the present. Others include historical manuscripts, photographs, newspapers (dating back to 1905), cheques, money and postal orders, stamps, historical maps, books, paintings and memorabilia related to Dr David Livingstone, including his hand written letters, some of which are on exhibition.

 Archaeology Section
The section holds about 10,000 site collections with over 350,000 archaeological artefacts from stone age to the iron age periods from all over Zambia.  Important collections include artefacts from Kalambo Falls, Mumbwa Caves and Ingombe Ilede.

Luxury Accommodation in a Natural Haven

If you’re looking to explore luxury travel in the most amazing countries on the most incredible continent, then you’re at the right place.!!!!!

Discover 5 Star Places Where You Can Experience.......

 Beach

 

 Adventure

 

 Planning your Holiday is About Taking Life Easy............

 

 Wine

 

Relaxation 

 

.......... Thanks to Namibia Reservations it will be......

The Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage...

The Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage in central Zambia is a non-profit refuge that cares for a wide variety of sick, wounded or unwanted animals -- but the primary residents are over 100 orphaned chimpanzees.

 Chimfunshi was founded in 1983 when a game ranger brought a badly wounded infant chimpanzee to the cattle ranch of David and Sheila Siddle, a British couple who had lived in along the Zambian copperbelt since the 1950s. The Siddles nursed that chimp – nicknamed "Pal" – back to health, thereby establishing a tradition of care and respect that forms the legacy of the sanctuary.

Once word of Pal’s recovery spread, the Siddles found themselves inundated with orphaned chimpanzees. Although many are confiscated from poachers who attempt to smuggle the infants into Zambia for sale as pets, an equally large number are rescued from dilapidated zoos and circuses from all over Africa, Asia, Europe and South America.

The Siddles bestow love and care upon the traumatized apes and gradually introduce them to the extended family at Chimfunshi. Five social groups inhabit the free-range enclosures that span 1,100 acres at the orphanage, including two 500-acre enclosures, the largest area ever set aside for captive primates.

About The Chimps

The chimpanzee, scientifically known as Pan Troglodytes, is the animal kingdom's closest relative to humans. In fact, chimpanzees are more similar to man than they are other apes, and research indicates that chimpanzees are over 99 percent genetically identical to humans.
Chimpanzees are native to Equatorial Africa, and once roamed in their millions across 25 countries in West, Central and East Africa. But relentless poaching, logging, habitat destruction, and human encroachment have reduced the wild population to less than an estimated 150 000, and they are classified as an Endangered Species.
Sadly, only limited legislation exists in a few nations to protect them, and it is estimated that chimpanzees and Africa’s two other great apes – gorillas and bonobos – could cease to exist in the wild within the next 30-50 years.
Chimpanzees are social animals with strong family bonds. They live in large groups of 25 or more, and female chimpanzees are attentive mothers, often doting on their offspring for the first four or five years. Chimpanzees are also efficient hunters and tool makers, and exhibit many of the same emotions once thought exclusive to humans, such as jealousy, envy, compassion, greed, sloth, avarice, and malice.

Chimpanzees continue to be hunted down and poached in their hundreds each year. The illegal hunting and subsequent sale of primate meat -- known as "bushmeat" -- is a thriving commercial enterprise and is on the increase with the depletion of forests. Sadly, it is believed that the killer human viruses such as Ebola and AIDS are directly related to the consumption of this ape meat, yet the practice shows no signs of abating.
Chimpanzee babies who survive the hunting ordeal are often sold as pets, zoo animals, or circus performers, while some wind up in medical research.

WINE ROUTES OF SOUTH AFRICA

The Cape wine growing areas, produce some of the world's most outstanding wines. Production of wine brings an important contribution to the South African economy. It is estimated that a growing figure of about one billion liters of wine are produced every year.
Take a look at an OVERVIEW and learn more about the current state of the industry

SOME HISTORY

Jan van Riebeeck, the first governor of the Cape, planted a vineyard in 1655, and on 2 February 1659, the first wine was made from Cape grapes. This led to the planting of vines on a larger scale at Roschheuvel, known today as Bishopscourt, Wynberg. Van Riebeeck strongly encouraged farmers to plant vineyards although initially they were most reluctant. He planted a vineyard on his farm Constantia and made good wine from the outset. Later, Constantia was acquired by the Cloete family and their wines became world-famous. To this day, Constantia wine is mentioned when the world's finest examples are discussed.

South African wines versus the World

Do South African wines hold their own in world markets?  Yes, with certain provisos. Firstly, they have a narrower product demand in many world markets and where they do have them it is not a pretty story, except perhaps for a few niche wines. Generally, SA wines provide easy drinking in big red styles in most of its markets.  South African wines are in growing demand overseas and more than 2 million cartons are reported to be exported per year.
Most of the cellars can be visited without special arrangement and some of them have also extra facilities as restaurant or even accommodation.

The viticulture in the Cape Peninsula can be traced to the 17th century. Dutch and especially French settlers brought the know-how and rapidly had excellent results in the sunny and fertile valleys around Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek.
Today the wine production produces also good wines from further areas as the Breede River, the Overberg, the Swartland and the Cedarberg.
While having a BREATHTAKING Wine Tasting Experience enjoy....

South Africa's coastal playground

This is a landscape of tall trees, curving coastline, mountain hideaways, artist communities and modern malls. The trick with travelling along the Garden Route is to have enough time to keep slipping off the N2 onto the side-roads with promising destinations.

The Garden Route is a mix of modern golf courses, ancient forests, secluded artist communities, retirement estates, modern malls, craft centres, mountain hideaways and beach holidays. A large number of interesting and creative people have come to live down here, drawn to this magnificent stretch of coastline.  The main arterial highway of the Garden Route in South Africa - a highlight on most visitors' itineraries - is the N2 stretch running from Heidelberg in the southern Cape to Storms River Village on the Eastern Cape border.

While the Garden Route road is extremely scenic, it is the hidden destinations on its side roads that are the secret of this region. 

Big 5 safaris

Be exhilarated, awed and maybe even terrified...Coming face-to-face with the Big 5 is an experience of a lifetime. You've read the books, seen the movies and TV programmes, now encounter the famous Big 5 face-to-face - buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino.

Big 5 safaris in South Africa are a must-do for anyone fascinated by wildlife. Big 5 refers to buffalo, elephant, ion, leopard and rhino – the term comes from the animals considered most dangerous to hunt. Now the thrill comes from photographing them in their natural habitat.

 African-inspired treatments 

Spoil yourself with an African-inspired spa treatment
Since the beginning of time, African people have looked for inspiration and healing from Mother Earth, so why not take that same enlightened concept into the modern-day spa?
African-inspired treatments are all the rage at various spas throughout the country. Instead of looking to other continents for inspiration our local spas have done some soul-searching and have come up with a range of unique treats and treatments inspired by the sacred knowledge found in our own backyard. African-inspired treatments are a treat for mind, body and soul

For more information please contact

Namibia Reservations at:

info@namibiareservations.com