What You Can Expect to Gain from Your Safari Experience

Are you excited about visiting Africa and going on the trip of a lifetime on your safari vacation? You should be — for many tourists, this is a once in a lifetime change that alters how they see the rest of the world. There is nothing like traveling and experiencing different places, but Africa is especially unique. Africa is a world that is all its own and nowhere else can possibly duplicate this incredible experience. Most tourists come into their trip with preconceived notions of what they can expect, but they are often delighted to find that their safari vacation far exceeds their expectations. Here is what you can expect to gain from your safari experience.

1. A New Respect for Animals

You might have seen lions, elephants, giraffes and wildebeest in a zoo before going to Africa, but seeing these creatures, and many others, in their natural habitat is a new experience. The creatures that call the wilderness of Africa home do not know cages or cramped enclosures. They do not have their meals served to them in perfectly measured portions. These are wild creatures that do wild acts. You might witness a predator hunting prey, new offspring being born or an expansive and dangerous migration — it is all part of the natural experience. You will never look at a caged animal in the same way again.

2. A Broader Understanding of African Culture

Africa has many diverse cultures and peoples within its continent. Each have their own unique place and something special to offer land. A lot of tourists come into Africa not knowing much about the people who live there, but you will soon find that the locals are friendly and unique. There is an abundance of food, music and art to experience on your safari vacation. Do not hesitate to ask questions and learn more.

3. An Appreciation for Landscape

You will see that Africa has a very diverse landscape that is full of different biomes. There are desert lands, mountain ranges, grassy plains and lush tropical forests. Each sustain unique plant and animal inhabitants. They are all important, though some are under constant threat of irreparable damage at the hands of humans. Once you see the beauty of this continent, you will certainly have a new appreciation for the work and protective measures that are being put in place to protect the land.

4. A New View of Africa

Most people have no idea what to expect when they start out on their African safari vacation. This trip is the best way to gain experience and educate others on what Africa is all about — thriving while embracing life and culture. You will certainly want to plan additional trips, bring your friends along too.

Plan Your Safari Vacation

There is no place on earth like Africa. Are you ready to start planning your safari vacation and take the trip of a lifetime? To get more information, visit our safari tours page or contact a representative with Roho Ya Chui, today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

 

Seven Natural Wonders of Africa: Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, also known as The Mountain of Greatness or The Mountain of Light, is the mighty overseer of the continent. The snowy peak serves as the summit of Africa, standing tall at 19,336 feet, or around 5,895 metres. Not only is this the tallest mountain in Africa, but it is also the largest freestanding mountain in the entire world. Beholding the mighty Kilimanjaro is a once in a lifetime opportunity for many tourists who come to Africa to complete a safari vacation. Mount Kilimanjaro is rightfully one of the seven wonders of Africa.

If you are planning an African safari vacation, be sure to research Africa’s incredible seven wonders. Mount Kilimanjaro is a wonderful highlight of any visit to Africa. If you would like more information on planning your trip, a representative with Roho Ya Chui would be happy to help. Here is some additional information on Mount Kilimanjaro.

A Tour of Ecosystems

A trek through Mount Kilimanjaro brings tourists through a tour of African climate systems. There is lush forest landscapes which house amazing animals such as elephants and leopards, all the way to arctic climates as the peak reaches through the clouds and is covered by a year around snowy cap. Lying between the two is the moorland zone, which is an enchanted layer of thick moss and twisted trees. These regions are home to many endangered species of plants and animals that can only be found in Africa. Because the ecosystems are so diverse, this gives travelers the chance to see many different representations of Africa all on a single hike.

Activities on Kilimanjaro

Nearly everyone who comes to visit Mount Kilimanjaro wants to see or climb the mountain, but there is more to do than hike to the summit. If you would like to climb the mountain, there are multiple trails of varying degrees of difficulty to take on. Most visitors can get to the summit with just a walking stick and the proper attire, though their are difficult trails for adventurous mountaineers.

As previously noted, the regions on and around Mount Kilimanjaro make it a perfect location for wildlife and bird watching. This is a thriving environment that has a wide range of Africa’s animals represented — including many of the most iconic and rare.

Visiting Lake Chala is another activity that you can do when you take a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro. This lake has formed in the massive volcanic crater that is on the side of the mountain. The waters, spanning 1.6 acres, are stunning shades of blue and green. Images captured at this location are some of the mountain’s most famous. There is a safari camp located in the area which serves as a resting place and rendezvous for safari goers.

Plan Your African Safari Vacation

Are you ready to plan your dream African safari vacation that includes a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro? For more information, visit our safari tours page or contact a representative with Roho Ya Chui today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

How to Handle and Ostrich Encounter

The ostrich is the world’s largest bird. They are native to the African savannah and desert lands, where they roam between watering holes eating plants along the way. Though ostriches cannot fly, their powerful legs make them extremely fast sprinters. They are capable of reaching top speeds of 43 miles per hour, and can run over long distances at 31 miles per hour. It goes without saying, but an ostrich is not an animal that you want to get into a foot race with on your African safari vacation.

At Roho Ya Chui, we want you to have a great time on your safari, while also staying safe. Due to their size and awesome abilities, ostriches are very popular animals among tourists. Seeing the world’s largest bird in its natural habitat is a true bucket list item for many. It is important to remember that these are wild animals and special care should be taken if you happen to encounter one. Though humans are not a natural prey of these birds, they have been known to injure and even kill people. Here is how to handle an ostrich encounter.

1. Hide and Please Don’t Seek

Ostriches can deliver devastating blows with their powerful legs, wings and beaks. The best way to avoid being harmed by an ostrich is to steer clear of them all together. Of course, even the most well intended tourists can get into sticky situations with wild animals. If you encounter an ostrich, immediately look to see if there is any brush, a building or vehicle that you can easily reach nearby. Keep your eye on the animal, but quickly seek refuge in this shelter and hide. If you do not think that you can make it to shelter, do not attempt to. Lay on the ground and play dead instead. An ostrich can easily outrun an adult human and will attack from behind with enormous force.

2. Blend In or Climb High

Ostriches are birds that have a primary diet of plants. Humans are far from the top of their list of prey, but they will chase a person if they feel threatened. As mentioned, a person has little hope of outrunning an ostrich, so the best chance is to hide. If there is no brush available, look to see if there is any object that you can use to conceal yourself, such as a boulder or tree. If you do find a tree, try and climb it. Remember that ostriches are incapable of flight, so you will only need to go nine or ten feet to be safe. The ostrich will lose interest in the chase if they believe that you have left.

3. Fight Off the Ostrich

In extreme circumstances, when there is no cover and you are clearly being attacked by the ostrich, you may have to fight. If there is a stick near, arm yourself. Stay to the sides and rear of the ostrich, they can only attack from the front. Make yourself as large as possible by waving your arms and a stick.

Plan Your African Safari Vacation

If you would like more information about planning your African safari vacation, visit our safari tours page or contact a representative with Roho Ya Chui today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

How to Determine the Amount of Time to Spend on Your Safari

Africa is the perfect continent to visit when you are on holiday. Many people spend years planning the perfect safari vacation. There are multiple countries in Africa that offer tourists wonderful safari experiences. Of course, it is impossible to experience all of the diverse landscapes and biomes within Africa in a short trip — but holidays do not last long. It is important to pinpoint exactly what you want to see and do for your African safari vacation so that you can determine how much time you will need to commit to meeting those goals. Here are some questions to help you determine the amount of time to spend on your safari.

1. Are You an Experienced Wildlife Fanatic?

While everyone is encouraged to take a trip to Africa so that they can truly appreciate everything that the wonderful nations within have to offer, a long safari is not recommended for all. The most common methods for traveling through the safari parks and countries is via a four wheel drive vehicle, walking, horseback or on foot. As you can imagine, a few days of traveling in this manner is exhausting for even the most avid outdoorsman. Of course, for some a week is not nearly enough time to embrace the African wildlife. If you are not an experienced with the outdoors, consider limiting your safari to a week or less.

2. What is Your Method of Travel?

Some methods of travel allow you to see a lot of the landscape very quickly. One of the most popular is an air safari via plane. This is a very unique experience that requires little work on your part — except to keep your eyes open for any incredible animals. There are also water safaris that can be more relaxing than other traditional routes. If you are traveling using one of these methods, you will be able to complete your trip quicker, in just a few days. If you would like to stay in Africa longer, be our guest.

3. What are Your Prefered Accommodations?

Most eco-friendly safari camps are quite primitive. You can expect bucket showers and a true camping experience. However, luxury safari camps offer a finer side for safari tourists. After a week in an eco-friendly camp, you will probably be ready for a nice hot shower and a warm bed. If you are in a luxury camp, you may be able to stick it out a bit longer.

4. What Would You Like to See?

There is so much to do and see in Africa, it is simply impossible to cover it all in a week or even two. Narrow down your top priorities and calculate how much time it will take to travel between them. If you would like to go through multiple countries, you may want to consider extending your trip.

Plan Your African Safari Vacation

Are you ready to plan your African safari vacation? We can help. To learn more, visit our safari tours page or contact us to speak to a representative at Roho Ya Chui.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

 

Essential for Planning a Successful Tour

An African safari vacation is a bucket list vacation that requires careful planning and attention to detail to perfect. The continent is so diverse — you can experience most of the world’s biomes by traveling through a few distinct locations. There are thousands of animals and bird species, as well as an abundance of thriving plant life. You want your trip to Africa to be a dream, and it absolutely can be if you have the essentials prepared. Take your time, talk to the experts and read through these tips for planning a successful tour.

1. Involve the Whole Group With Planning

Most people do not travel to Africa alone, which means that you will have multiple wants and opinions for what to see and do while you are there. This is how it should be, as Africa offers something for everyone. Take everyone’s wishes into account and talk about how you can smoothly make those dreams a reality. Some travel experts recommend different times of the year for different regions, so your group will need to take that into account. You might need to travel through multiple countries — which is both normal for tourists and encouraged. Be sure to commit plenty of time to this trip, one to two weeks is highly recommended.

2. Decide Where to Stay and Travel

Safari experts recommend that tourists who want an intimate, experience in Africa stay in smaller camps. These campsites are normally very luxurious, offering friendly staff, good meals and daily safari tours. Larger lodges may be the way to go if you are on a tighter budget, but these often accommodate upwards of 100 people at a time. As you can imagine, these groups can make safari trips a bit less magical. If you do stay in a lodge, consider investing in a traveling method that will be smaller and more personal. With that being said, take some time to consider a total budget plan with your family or friends who will also be going on the trip. Decide where to stay and travel based off your budget.

3. Learn About the Cultures

The cultures in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself. There are a multitude of different groups, tribes and peoples who are very welcoming to tourists. It is important that you learn about the cultures and customs of the locals in the areas that you will be traveling through. Nobody wants to be that tourist who unintentionally offends a nice tour guide.

Use a Professional Travel Agency

Planning a trip to Africa is a real art. It is highly recommended that you invest in the expertise of a travel agent who specializes in safari vacations. Are you ready to start planning your trip to Africa? To learn more information, visit our safari tours page and contact us to start planning your African safari vacation with Roho Ya Chui, today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Animals to Keep a Safe Distance From

Going on an African safari vacation is the trip of a lifetime for many people. There is no place on earth that offers so many different diverse landscapes, people and animals. In a single trip, you can experience the vast deserts, the stunning mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, ancient tropical forests and thriving grasslands. Each biome is filled with its own diverse lifeforms. The animals that call Africa home are wonderful, but they can also be quite dangerous. While on your safari vacation, it is important to follow all the instructions that you are given. Never get close to any of the wild animals, and take special care to keep a safe distance from a select few. Here are some of the most dangerous animals in Africa.

1. The Cape Buffalo

The Cape Buffalo is a large animal and is credited with killing the most big game hunters each year. Adult males can be over 1,500 pounds and even lions hesitate when attempting to bring them down. Cape Buffalo are herd animals that are very protective of their young. They will mow over anything that appears threatening.

2. The Rhinoceros

Rhinos are very popular among tourists who visit Africa since multiple varieties are critically endangered. Because they are suffering in numbers, they are illegal to hunt. Rhinos have a very short temper and will charge any threatening lifeform. They have a very deadly horn, which they use to gore their victims. Adult Rhinos can weigh over 6,000 pounds and run up to 40 miles per hour.

3. The Lion

Lions do not typically attack humans, but that does not mean that attacks do not happen. Most people who are attacked by lions simply got too close. Once a lion attacks a human, it must be moved or destroyed. Lion attacks are on the rise in several countries, with several hundred people killed each year.

4. The African Elephant

As the biggest land animal in the world, African elephants weigh an astounding 12,000 pounds. Obviously, with this kind of weight, an attack by an elephant is hardly ever survivable. Males have been known to attack uncoerced, but these giants will stampede if they feel threatened.

5. The Hippo

The hippo is the cause of more human deaths than any other animal in Africa. They may seem slow and harmless, but they can run at speeds of 20 miles per hour and have 20-inch canine teeth that easily tear into flesh. A fun fact about these dangerous African natives — the closest relative to the hippo is the whale.

Plan Your African Safari Vacation

Going to Africa is a wonderful experience, but be sure to listen to all instructions and stay at a safe distance from these very dangerous animals. If you would like more information on planning your African safari vacation, visit our safari tours page or contact a representative with Roho Ya Chui today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

African Cultural Differences

South Africa is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. This often comes as a surprise to some safari goers, as not much is known about the cultural differences within African itself to the outside world. If you are planning to take a trip to this country or any African nation soon, take some time to discover the multicultural jewels that make this continent great. You will be delighted to find diverse tastes in cuisine, art, music, clothing and much more. The people of Africa are a vital part of any safari vacation experience. Here is a very basic overview of African cultural differences.

South African Culture and Society

South Africa is known as a rainbow nation. Like many other modern nations around the world, this country embraces diverse cultures and ethnicities within its borders. It has both urbanized areas and rural lands, each representing a different group of peoples. Family is very important to South Africans, which includes extended families or tribal communities. Human decency over materialism is an ideal that is held to a high standard. When meeting foreign tourists, proper etiquette is a simple, friendly handshake. Most are very welcoming to outsiders, and a return of this gesture is appreciated. This melting pot offers tourists a unique sampling of blended African values.

Acts that are Considered Rude

One of the most important things that tourists should know regarding African cultural differences is what acts are considered rude. You should avoid the following:

• Pointing with the index finger at a person or thing is seen as very rude and even offensive. Different groups within Africa point in different ways, but tourists should make nodding or motioning a habit before their trip.
• When motioning to someone, keep your palm down. An open palm is considered a rude gesture.
• The bottom of the foot is seen as the dirtiest part of the body in most African cultures. Avoid pointing the sole of your foot towards anyone.
• Do not touch food with your left hand. Many cultures in Africa reserve their right hand for eating. Hissing or kissing towards someone as a way to get their attention is very normal and culturally acceptable in Africa, so do not be offended if this happens.
• Do not publicly show anger or frustration.

The Values of Silence and Time

Silence and time are seen a bit differently in Africa than most other places in the world. Rather than focusing on the future, Africans value past events. It is assumed that things will fall into place as time passes. Schedules are not always important. Africans also greatly value silence, so do not be surprised by long bouts of wordless moments.

Plan Your African Safari Vacation

Are you ready to start planning your African safari vacation and experience these cultural differences for yourself? We can help you to book the perfect trip. For more information, visit our safari tours page or contact a representative with Roho Ya Chui today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Image: Bushtracks Africa

Seven Natural Wonders of Africa: Serengeti Migration

Each year, the eyes of the world turn to Africa to witness an incredible occurrence take place. Over one million native wildebeest, antelope and zebras begin a long, clockwise trek across multiple countries. They face grave dangers, harsh conditions and hunters─both animal and human─yet still find the time to give birth to the next generation, find a new mate and conceive again along the route. This amazing journey is known as the Serengeti Migration. Many people travel from all over the world to take on an African safari vacation and witness this migration. If you are a traveler that would like to see these animals along their route, keep in mind, timing is everything. Here is an overview of the great Serengeti Migration.

January

The year begins with the birth of many new youngsters. These calves are born ready to make the migration, though many will die along the way. The herd begins in Tanzania and start their journey south, traveling to the lower Serengeti.

March

By the spring, all of the good grasslands of the lower Serengeti have been devoured, and the last new calves have been dropped. The herd prepares to continue their journey.

April

The massive wildebeest herd has now left the lower Serengeti and is making their presence known in the central and western regions of the land. They will continue north from here.

May

The herd is officially in motion, and huge groups stretch up to 40km as they continue to travel north. If you are planning to visit the wildebeest during their journey, it is important to remember that their natural predators also have an important role in play. These wildebeest provide a vital source of food for many of the other iconic animals of Africa. By June, the herd is visibly agitated as trouble becomes more and more apparent.

July

As summer arrives, the wildebeest reach one of their greatest obstacles. The far western Serengeti and the popular Grumeti reserve are marked by teeming brown waters of rushing rivers. It is not just the water that makes the wildebeest anxious, but the giant crocodiles that call them home.

August

Those who survive the rivers make their way to the northern Serengeti and yet another reserve, the Masai Mara. They begin to split into smaller herds as fall approaches. This is a great area and time to come see the migration.

November

As winter approaches, the grasses of the Northernmost parts of the Serengeti have been completely depleted by what remains of the massive wildebeest herd. As the winter rains begin to arrive, the herd starts its way back south. By this time, their original spots on the Serengeti have been replenished.

December

Back at square one, the wildebeest begin the cycle of calving, moving and surviving yet again. This is a true representation of “the circle of life.” These animals have traveled across the plains for hundreds of generations, and will hopefully continue to do so well into the future.

If you would like to book your African safari vacation, visit our safari page or contact a representative with Rohoyachui today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Fruits and Foods Native to Africa

When most people picture Africa in their minds, they see grassy plains, desert landscapes and fierce animals. Far from a place where fruit and other foods grow in abundance—but, Africa is a surprising land of plenty in many, many ways. Much of African culture revolves around the delicious food that is produced by the diverse peoples that make up the continent. South Africa, in particular, is abundant in plant food sources. This is most evident when tourists taste the world class cuisine that chefs put together using local sources. Once you experience an African safari vacation, you will never think of this place in the same way again. Here are some of the native fruits and foods native to Africa.

1. Amaranth

The lowlands of Africa are associated with the stunning gorillas that many tourists travel around the world to see. The countries that comprise this area are hot, humid and full of thriving plant life. This plant diversity includes the edible greenery, Amaranth. Amaranth thrives and grows quickly in the humid environment and is used by the locals, as well as others around the world, for a variety of uses. As an excellent source of protein, essential minerals, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and other vitamins, this plant plays an important role in the diets of people who call the African lowlands home.

2. Cowpea

Thousands of years ago, the hearty people who called Africa home grew a major crop that is still a staple in the land today. Cowpea is a legume that could not be more perfect for life on the diverse continent. Not only is it efficient in drought, but it can also be grown successfully in poor soil conditions.

3. The Spider Plant

The Spider Plant is to Africa what lettuce and other leafy greens are to many areas of the world. This plant is grown throughout the continent and plays a significant role in the diet of the people who live here.

4. African Eggplant

Like many other plants that are grown in Africa, the African Eggplant can thrive in poor soil and drought conditions. It is also very easy to store and is long lasting. Most importantly, second to being a very nutritious vegetable, this plant is the fiscal lifeline for many African families. While tourism plays a giant role in the economies of many African nations, agriculture is also a driving force. This plant, in particular, is a multi-beneficial staple in many areas.

Book Your African Safari Vacation

Are you ready to try some of these native fruits and vegetables for yourself? You can get your questions answered and begin booking your African safari vacation by visiting our safari page or contacting a representative with Rohoyachui today.

Jill LIphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Visiting the different regions of Africa

Roho Ya Chui offers safaris all across Africa so that you can travel the locations you’re most drawn to. Each part of the continent offers unique experiences from scenery to wildlife to cuisine. Explore our site and guides for more details, but consider these brief descriptions of some of our favorite regions of Africa to start narrowing down your trip choices. Remember not to stress over your decision—all the safaris are incredible, and you can always come back for another!

Botswana & Namibia

Surround yourself with wildlife during your trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana. The park is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants on the entire African continent. As the game roam freely in the large natural space, you’ll also be likely to spot buffalo, antelope, rafts of hippo, lions, crocodiles, zebras, and hyenas. Sound like your ideal trip? Think about the 9-day Signature Botswana safari or check out what our Namibia trips have to offer.

Southern Africa

The country of South Africa is a great place to visit if you’re interested in exploring Southern Africa. Cape Town offers incredible views of the ocean and mountains. Visit the Jackass penguins on Boulders Beach and watch the gorgeous sunset over Table Mountain. Kruger Park offers highly skilled and qualified professional rangers and trackers who will land you intimate wildlife encounters with leopards, elephants, buffalo, rhino, and lions. There are plenty of safaris to think about taking throughout the nations of Southern Africa, but a few to consider in South Africa are the 7-day Signature Kruger, the 10-day Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls, and the 6-day Blyde River, Kruger, and Panorama Route fly-in tour.

Victoria Falls, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, & Madagascar

Trips to Victoria Falls offer the opportunity for activities like white water rafting and bungee jumping. If you’re seeking something a little less extreme, there are also the more low-key options of elephant back safaris and sunset cruises. The largest sheet of falling water on earth, The Victoria Falls are one of the natural Seven Wonders of the World. In this region, expect to see warthogs and sample interesting dishes like crocodile risotto and kudu steaks. Consider the 11-day Best of Zimbabwe, Signature Zambia tours, and many more throughout these various nations.

Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, & Uganda

A Tanzanian tour will guarantee spotting an abundance of wildlife. With more than 550 species of birds, the swamps surrounding the Tarangire River support the largest number of breeding bird species found anywhere in the world. You might also come across elephants, pythons, herds of oryx, and tree climbing lions. Additionally, you’ll view impressive rock paintings that were created by men tens of thousands of years ago. Visit the Serengeti to experience an ongoing source of inspiration for filmmakers, photographers, and writers around the world. Try the 18-day Grand Tour Tanzania, or look into our trips to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa