Country Overview

The Garden Route is renowned for its beaches, indigenous forests, nature reserves, lakes, mountain ranges, adventure opportunities and hiking trails. Knysna features numerous sophisticated arts an crafts shops and a vibrant cultural life, and the famous Knysna Heads are best viewed from the Featherbed Nature Reserve - a Natural Heritage Site.

Further east along South Africa's coastline lies Plettenberg Bay, a relaxed beach paradisewith spectacular walks and hikes. Visitors can watch dolphins and whales on ecomarine cruises. With some of the world's finest beaches, the Eastern Cape's untouched and pristine coastline also has a rich social, cultural and political history. Port Elizabeth is the gateway to the Eastern Cape, and the perfect complement to the Garden Route. Cape St Francis is situated on the Indian Ocean coastline, in and around Africa's largest man made web of canals and waterways, and is renowed for its long, sandy beaches, surfing, rock fishing and tranquil lifestyle.

Cape Town is widely described as one of the world's most beautiful cities. Some of its more famous landmarks include Table Mountain, Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for decades), Cape Point, Chapmans Peak, Kirstenbosch Gardens and Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. A combination of historical coastal charm and urbane sophistication, Cape Town has some of the finest beaches and is also the gateway to the lush Cape Winelands, famous for world-renowned wines. From here, it is an easy journey to the Whale Route, where Southern Right whales can be seen (June - November) and humpback whales, Bryde's whales, Minke whales and bottlenose dolpins can be viewed year round.

Durban is a sub-tropical city and the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal. It offers a unique mix of Zulu, Indian and colonial cultures. Visit the Anglo-Zulu battlefields, take a fascinating glimpse into Zulu culture, hike in the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains, dive the reefs, marine and coastal reserves of Maputaland, as well as experience Big Five game reserves. The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is renowned for saving the white rhino from the brink of extinction, and Phinda Private Game Reserve is well known for its award-winning lodges and conservation initiatives.

Mpumalanga is home to world-renowned Kruger National Park. The flagship of South Africa's national parks, this two million-hectare reserve offers an unrivalled wildlife experience. Private concessions operating within and alongside Kruger National Park feature luxurious, exclusive game lodges with many exciting safari activities. Some of these lodges are unfenced, allowing for the free movement of wildlife.

Mpumalanga features many small, picturesque country towns, and there are many scenic drives, including excursions to Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Windown. Places of cultural interest include the old mining town of Pilgrim's Rest and the Shangaan Cultural Village near Hazyview.

Johannesburg meaning "Place of Gold", is South Africa's economic powerhouse. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city is home to many attractions including the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, and also offers shopping from world-class to atmospheric curio markets. Known as the "Jacaranda City", the state capital of Pretoria features beautiful blossoming trees, significant old buildings and fascinating museums, including the Transvaal Museaum, home of Mrs Ples, the australopithecine fossil found at the Cradle of Humankind.

Sun City is a one-stop entertainment destination frequented by international celebrites and offering a variety of hotels, great golfing and fun for families. Visitors can enjoy game drives into nearby Pilanesberg National Park.

Madikwe Game Reserve, in the North West province, is one of South Africa's largest private Big Five game reserves and features numerous lodges and camps. The Waterberg area in the northwest is also malaria-free and is aptly named for its strong streams that flow even in dry seasons, making for excellent game viewing. Both reserves are great for those seeking an accessible malaria-free wilderness experience.

- dry sunny summers (November - March), average 260C, often windy. Spring (Sept/Oct) and Autumn (April/May) are mild with beautiful wind free days. Winter (June - August) brings rain and cooler temperatures but there are many fine, sunny wind free days.

- sunny days predominate in this popular year-round tourist destination. Year round mild weather with occasional rain.

- dry, sunny climate in winter and crisp nights. Summer enjoys higher temperatures and later afternoon showers with spectacular electric storms.

- hot and humid in summer with summer rainfall. Winters are pleasant, but temperatures can plummet in the Drakensberg Mountains where snow falls regularly on peaks.

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Surrounded by the sands of the Kalahari Desert is the magical oasis of Botswana's Okavango Delta, formed by ancient seismic shifting of the earth's surface. Water in the desert is a spectacular sight - the crystal-clear channels, spreading like an outstretched hand over the thirstlands of the Kalahari, are nothing short of miraculous.

Wide grassy floodplains are host to a magnificent array of wild animals, including the specially adapted sitatunga and lechwe antelopes. Within this lacework of channels, game viewing and bird watching is frequently guided from mekoro (dugout canoes) or more commonly, environmentally-friendly fibreglass replicas. In these slender flat-bottomed craft, visitors are propelled by expert polers, many of whom were born in the Okavango Delta and know the winding waterways and their inhabitants intimately.

Chobe National Park, approximately 62 miles due west of Victoria Falls, is abundant with wildlife all year round, and features the beautiful Chobe River on its northern boundary. Throughout the area numerous clay-bottomed pans hold water during the short rainy season. This water away from the Okavango Delta and the northern border rivers allows thousands of head of game to live off the grasslands, mopane and mixed woodlands that dominate Chobe National Park's vegetation.

During the rainy season, from November, you can witness the zebra migration from the north-western area of Linyanti heading south through the Savute plains to the salt pans around Makgadikgadi, where the foals are born. The herds then return to Linyanti between February and April.

This beautiful and expansive reserve of the Central Kalahari is one of the most remote and unspoiled parts of Africa. At certain times of the year, usually during the summer rains, the northern section of the Park is one of the prime game viewing areas of Botswana, not to mention the breathtaking landscapes that await discovery.

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve was originally established in 1961 as a sanctuary for its human inhabitants, the nomadic Bushmen or San people, who now reside in small village communities in the Reserve. Today, a wealth of extraordinary plant and animal life flourishes within this expansive landscape.

Known as "the land of the giants", the Tuli Block is approximately 218 miles long. It ranges from where the Shashe and the Limpopo Rivers meet in the east to the Notwane River in the south-west. Gigantic trees line the banks of the Limpopo River, as do forests of lime-green fever trees. Game viewing is good, and there are more than 600 elephants in this relatively small area. Predators are seen on a regular basis.

Botswana offers superb game-viewing and safari activities throughout the year. The winter months (May to September) are dry, with warm and sunny days (26°C average) but temperatures do drop to below freezing at night. The summer months (October to April) are hot (25° - 45°C) although welcome relief is received from magnificent afternoon showers.

The main rains fall between December and March, but often just in the form of brief thundershowers that last an hour or two before the sun re-emerges. The sunlight after an African storm is incredibly intense and superb for wildlife photography. The summer rains also bring spectacular migrant birds to Botswana.

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Livingstone named the Victoria Falls after his queen. The Victoria Falls and nearby village are located within a protected area neighbouring the Zambezi National Park. Today, the village rightly claims the title of Adrenaline Capital of Africa. Victoria Falls village is home to a seemingly endless variety of adventure sports from bungee jumping to canoeing and white-water rafting. Apart from its appeal to adventure enthusiasts the village still has a gracious, pioneering, colonial atmosphere.

But perhaps the greatest appeal is the Victoria Falls themselves. A network of trails leads through the rain forest surrounding the 'smoke that thunders'. Take an umbrella and raincoat and gaze at the incredible vistas of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Although game viewing is generally restricted to the Hwange National Park road network, there are private concession areas allowing off-road safaris and nature walks. Hwange Park is one of the finest conservation areas in Africa and is said to contain the widest variety and greatest density of wildlife in the world.

All Zimbabwe's protected animals are to be found in Hwange and it is the only protected area where gemsbok and brown hyena occur in reasonable numbers. The population of wild dog to be found in Hwange is thought to be of one of the largest surviving groups in Africa today.

Lake Kariba is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, with abundant game-sightings and excellent angling for bream and tiger fish. The Lake provides pleasure to locals and visitors alike with fishing, canoeing, sailing or drifting along on a houseboat.

Wildlife sightings on the banks of Kariba are thrilling. Elephant, buffalo, crocodile and a host of smaller game abound, many of them the refugees of the translocation operation of thousands of animals in preparation for the flooding of the valley to create the dam.

The prevailing theory behind the Great Zimbabwe Ruins is that this structure was used as a royal compound. Judging from the ancient iron tools, ceramics, pottery (including Ming Dynasty pottery from China), gold and carvings discovered in the ruins, it covers about 720 hectares with its huge granite walls, conical towers and fortresses.

Guided tours run daily through the ruins, a museum that holds the archaeological artifacts that have been recovered from the ruins. Masvingo town, 17 miles from this national shrine, is the provincial capital of this region.

Mana Pools is an unspoiled, remote Park in the Zambezi Valley, a subtropical region which extends over 2,196 square kilometres. From the river the terrain rises up to the Zambezi Plateau. The vegetation varies from open grasslands and mixed woodlands with mopane and acacia dominant, although giant winter-thorns, huge fig and sausage trees and some riverine species are also present.

Walking is allowed (at visitor's own risk) and can be exhilarating and rewarding, if caution is taken. Avoiding potentially dangerous animals, dense thickets and tall grasslands is advised.

The Matopos is an area of incredible beauty with a mythical history and a proud people, the Matebele. The Matobo Hills were so named because they looked like the bald heads of indunas (chiefs). The entire region is a complex of bizarre and exposed granitic formations.

Once inhabited by the bushman, today one can find magnificent examples of rock art in and amongst the caves. The Matobo National Park is one of Zimbabwe's prime wildlife sanctuaries with a large population of white rhino, the elusive black rhino, a variety of antelope species, baboon, rock hyraxes and a large population of leopard and black eagle.

Zimbabwe offers excellent game-viewing opportunities throughout the year. Hot summers occur from October to April and days are generally sunny in the morning with possible afternoon thundershowers. Winter occurs from May to September and days are sunny and cool to warm while evening temperatures drop sharply. Please note that cold spells can occur but this is the exception rather than the rule, therefore warm clothing is recommended.

The main rains fall between November and March, although the Eastern Highlands are damp for most of the year. The Victoria Falls are spectacular in April and May after the rainy season.

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With the quaintly rustic air of a colonial outback frontier town, Livingstone's main attraction is the Livingstone Museum, housing many relics and items owned by explorer David Livingstone. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Chief Mukuni's village, where guests are introduced to the lifestyle and customs of the local Leya tribe, and entertained with dancing and art and craft exhibitions.

Game viewing along the upper Zambezi River by canoe or cruise boat is rewarding and relaxing. Adrenaline junkies may want to experience the spectacular view while bouncing upside down from the end of a bungi cord off the Victoria Falls Bridge. Intrepid travellers will also be attracted by the white-water rafting excursions on the swirling waters of the Zambezi Gorge. Helicopter or microlight trips over the Falls, game-drives in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, horse trails along the Zambezi River and a visit to Maramba Market are also available.

South Luangwa National Park is one of the best parks in Africa for night game-drives. More than 60 mammal species and over 400 bird species are found in this Park, which is also renowned for thousands of hippo and crocodiles. Luangwa is the birthplace of the Walking Safari and there is no better way to explore this wilderness.

Featuring leafy woodlands, slow-moving river channels and lily-bedecked lagoons, South Luangwa is renowned for the expertise of its guides. It is also excellent for spotting leopards and is home to about 15 000 elephants and the same number of hippo. Thornicroft's giraffe and Cookson's wildebeest are unique to the region.

The mighty Zambezi River is tamed by the Lower Zambezi valley, becoming gentle as it spreads languidly across the Valley. Islands and floodplains create a densely vegetated habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, elephant in particular. The Lower Zambezi National Park has a thriving population of predators and remarkable birdlife.

Inland is a floodplain filled with mopane and acacia trees where giraffe nibble on the green leaves. The Zambezi Escarpment provides a dramatic backdrop to the Park. This area is seasonal and many of the lodges and camps are closed from November to March.

Kafue National Park spans 22 400 square kilometres and is one of the larger national parks. Bird watching is exceptional, with over 400 species common to the area. The wild landscape varies from the Busanga Plains in the northwest, to richly green areas in the south, all nourished by the Lunga, Lufupa and Kafue Rivers.

In the north of Kafue National Park, the sparkling rivers feed thick riverine forest and striking miombo woodland. The diversity of game is astounding - the floodplains teem with herds of antelope often stalked by predators. Due to the rainy season many camps and lodges in this area close between November and March.

Zambia's elevation on a plateau gives it a moderate climate, despite the fact that it is within tropical latitudes. There are three seasons, cool and dry from April to August, hot and dry from September to October and warm and wet from November to March. Only during the wet season is there noticeable humidity. In the river valleys of the Zambezi and Luangwa it becomes very hot only in the month of October. Average summer temperatures (September to April) range from 26C° to 30°C, and winter temperatures (May to August) from 20°C to 23°C. Game-viewing is excellent year round, particularly from June to October.

The main rains fall between November and March. The Victoria Falls are spectacular in April and May after the rainy season.

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The largest of the islands, Bazaruto Island, is approximately 22miles long and 4 miles at its widest point. A coral-reefed island, it features an astounding array of marine life, and is a premier surf-fishing destination. Bazaruto has an abundance of bird and animal life. Walking trails lead visitors to interesting areas such as mangrove communities, freshwater lakes and turtle nests, and a walk up to the lighthouse is a must. Diving and snorkelling off Bazaruto reveals an underwater wonderland.

Benguerra Island is heaven for those wanting to relax in this tranquil island paradise, with no major land predators to disturb the cycle of nature. The slow-moving dugongs are amongst the most interesting of the marine mammals, normally encountered in family groups of about five. The Bazaruto archipelago is one of the only remaining havens in the world for the gentle dugongs who are classified by the IUCN Red Data List as Vulnerable. Five species of dolphin found in the area can be seen frolicking in the ocean, and in the summer months humpback whales cruise past in the deeper water.

Pemba is home to the Makonde people, characteristically fearless and renowned for their initiation rituals - in particular the male 'mapico' masks and the mapico dance. Other cultural characteristics are body tattoos and the sharpening of teeth - both regarded as enhancing attraction. The Makonde are also known for their striking woodcarvings.

Pemba is also the access point for the Quirimbas Archipelago, which is made up of some 30 islands, including Quirimba, Sencar and Ibo. This Archipelago is another pristine destination, and less frequented than Bazaruto Archipelago.

Maputo offers a number of nearby beaches to explore, working up an appetite for delicious seafood dishes and Portuguese wines. Nineteen miles north of Maputo is the village of Marracuene and the Incomati River. There is a scenic 20-minute boat trip from the Complexo Turistico Macaneta down the Incomati River to Macaneta beach.

The Maputo Elephant Reserve is famous for its natural beauty. Flocks of flamingoes can also be seen on the large inland lakes near the ocean. For the intrepid traveller, it is situated on the road to Ponta do Ouro via the ferry to Catembe, or 70 miles south from Maputo via the Boane road.

Pemba is the access point for the Quirimbas Archipelago. This Archipelago is another pristine destination, although more remote and less frequented than Bazaruto Archipelago. Snorkelling, fishing and diving in these waters doesn't get better than this!

The southernmost 11 of the islands of the Quirimbas comprise the Quirimbas National Park - a conservation effort to preserve and protect the area

Vilanculos has been established as a popular tourist destination and gives you a great insight into the characteristically friendly Mozambicans. Ideal for exploring the Bazaruto Archipalgo, Vilancoulos also offers its own magnificent beaches and attractions.

Wildlife likely to be seen on Inhaca Island includes loggerhead turtles and birds such as pelicans, flamingoes, white-faced owls and whimbrels.

The island also features large areas of unspoiled evergreen forest and bush land. Large areas of its land and shores have been protected as natural reserve since 1976, providing a unique and pristine environment, which can be enjoyed by taking one of the excellent two- to three-day hiking trails that are available for the avid walker.

Mozambique has a tropical climate, with the northern coastal regions in particular being very hot and humid. The average temperature for Mozambique is around 30°C all year round. The dry winter runs from April to September, when the average daily high reaches 27°C on the coast, becoming cooler inland. The wet summer is from October to April, with an average daily temperature of 33°C. The best fishing months are in summer from October to March.

Most rainfall occurs during summer between October and March

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The Masai Mara is famous for its annual Great Migration of more than two million wildebeest and thousands of Thomson's gazelle, zebra and impala. Aside from the Migration, game-viewing is excellent throughout the year. For the bird enthusiast 500 species have been recorded.

The Masai Mara is well-known for its spectacular black-maned lion and for up-close-and-personal cheetah sightings. Lake Victoria is accessible as a day's excursion from the Masai Mara.

There is a diversity of scenery in Meru National Park, and a wide variety of habitats, ranging from forest, dry bush and grasslands to swamps and numerous rivers lined with doum palms, tamarind trees and acacias.

The wildlife is varied, and numerous. Lion, leopard and cheetah are present, as are elephant and buffalo. There are large numbers of hippo and crocodile in the River. Grevy's and Burchell's zebra, reticulated giraffe and gerenuk add to the diversity.

The Samburu is a narrow plain giving way to rocky hillsides which are home to leopard. Buffalo Springs is mainly a rolling plain of volcanic soils with dry riverbeds lined by doum palms. It is the unique wildlife, including the gerenuk, Grevy's zebra, beisa oryx and reticulated giraffe that attracts many visitors to this area.

A highlight of these Parks is watching large numbers of elephant bathing in the Ewaso Nyiro River. Shaba, which lies to the east of the other two reserves, is scenically dramatic, with the River running through deep gorges and waterfalls. Mount Bodech and Shaba Hill dominate the landscape, and the plains are dotted with springs, small swamps and rocky hills.

Large herds of elephant are common sights in Amboseli National Park, as are buffalo, Thomson's and Grant's gazelle, Coke's hartebeest, warthog, wildebeest, impala, giraffe, zebra and baboons. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas and jackals are also present. Around the swamps and seasonal lakes, birdlife is abundant with a good variety of water species.

Most of the Amboseli National Park consists of a dry, ancient lakebed and fragile grasslands with patches of acacia woodland, while in the southern area there are a number of small volcanic hills. Around the swamps the vegetation is lush with yellow-barked acacias and phoenix palms.

In the north of Aberdare National Park is Ol Doinyo Satima - at 3 995 metres/ 13,107 feet, the highest peak in the Park, and to the south, Kinangop. Between the two is moorland with rocky ridges, small forested areas and highland bogs and streams. A number of streams, home to brown and rainbow trout, cross this moorland and cascade down the slopes in a series of waterfalls. On the eastern and western slopes, montane forest blends into bamboo and hagenia in the higher ground.

The Western section of Tsavo National Park is the more popular, offering attractions other than wildlife, the foremost of these being Mzima Springs, where millions of litres of cool, crystal-clear water flow out of the ground through porous volcanic rocks.

Visitors are permitted to walk to the source of the Springs - a most rewarding experience, often with sightings of wildlife going down to drink at the water's edge. There is an observation tank sunk into the river, giving an underwater perspective of the wildlife satiating their thirst, and of a number of fish outside the window of the tank.

Highlights of The Great Rift Valley include Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha

The landscape surrounding Lake Nakuru includes areas of marsh and grasslands alternating with rocky cliffs and outcrops, stretches of acacia woodland and rocky hillsides covered with a euphorbia forest on the eastern perimeter.

Lake Nakuru National Park is also home to the Kenyan Rhino Conservation Project - and so is an excellent place to see rhino. The best view of the lake is from Baboon Cliffs.

The birdlife at Lake Naivasha is spectacular. Some of the many species include Grey-capped Warbler, Spectacled Weaver, Brimstone Canary and Red-billed Firefinch. Being a freshwater lake, Naivasha has a healthy fish population which attracts a variety of fish-eaters. Both Long-tailed and Great Cormorants can be seen, along with Fish Eagles and Pied Kingfishers.

As well as a birdwatcher's paradise, Lake Naivasha is only 62 miles from Nairobi so is popular as a recreational destination for many of the locals.

In the winding medieval streets and bustling markets of Lamu and Mombasa, life has continued unhurried and unchanged for more than 400 years. South of Mombasa there are wide expanses of white beach, and magnificent coral reefs.

Lamu Island is a peaceful tropical island where life is lived at a relaxed rhythm, but whose history is as fascinating as the winding streets of its medieval stone town. Malindi and Watamu offer plenty for the traveller who wants to blend relaxation and exploration.

Originally little more than a small muddy, watering hole for Maasai tribes, Nairobi grew with the introduction of the railway and had became a substantial town by 1900. Though now a major city, Nairobi is still very much in tune with its natural surroundings. Even its name, from the Masaai "enkare nyarobi" means "Place of Cool Waters".

During the railway construction in 1899, a man-eating lion preyed on the workers, resulting in one of Kenya's most horrific legends. The movie, The Ghost in the Darkness was based on this legend. Some of the attractions to explore in the city include the Railway Museum, the National Museum and the Snake Park

Kenya offers excellent game-viewing throughout the year. The country is divided by the Equator and enjoys a tropical climate. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast parts of the country. The hottest period is in February and March and the coldest in July and August. The average annual temperatures in the main areas vary as follows: Mombasa (coastal) from 21 - 32°C, Nairobi from 11 - 25°C, and the North Plain lands from 23 - 34°C. Depending on when the rains come, the Great Migration normally reaches Kenya in July. Hundreds of thousands of herbivores then disperse onto the plains of the Masai Mara for the next couple of months.

The 'long rains' occur from April to June and 'short rains' from October to December. Rainfall is sometimes heavy and tends to fall in the afternoon and evenings.

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The awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon - the second largest in the world after the Grand Canyon - is 161km in length, up to 27km in width and 550m deep. The windswept fishing village of Luderitz started life as a picturesque German colonial town known for its diamonds and seafood. The village features fine colonial buildings, a small museum and the old post office.

Kaokoland, often described as one of Southern Africa's last truly wild areas, features beautiful mountain landscapes and rugged tranquillity. The astonishing oasis of the Epupa Falls is a lush jewel in the crown of the Kunene River. Visit nearby Himba settlements, where people live in traditional manner. Damaraland is a highland desert wilderness supporting unique desert-adapted wildlife, including elephant and the last free ranging (desert-adapted) black rhino on earth. The area is home to some of the world's oldest and best preserved rock art in awe-inspiring locations, including the Spitzkoppe, Twyfelfontein (containing the only rock engravings in the country) and the Brandberg Mountains.

The Namib-Naukluft Park is superb for hiking, with a number of spectacular trails. It is ruggedly beautiful mountainous territory with plummeting ravines, rock pools and abundant wildlife and vegetation given the harsh conditions. Geological history starts 1,000 to 2,000 million years ago. This Park also features the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei - said to be the highest in the world - and the fascinating Sesriem Canyon. This area is home to the unique Hartmann's mountain zebra found only in Namibia and Southern Angola. Adjacent to the Namib-Naukluft Park is the NamibRand, Namibia's largest privately-owned reserve.

Swakopmund on the Atlantic coast is an eclectic mixture of Bohemian and Bavarian. Home to a mix of artists, hippies, descendants of German settlers, stately Herero women in Victorian dress, and miners, game rangers, safari operators and fishermen. Just outside town is the extraordinary Moon Landscape, a seemingly endless series of bizarre hills and valleys. For plant lovers, there is the lure of what have been called "living fossils", the Welwitschia mirabilis. Swakopmund is also a popular activity destination. Between the town and Walvis Bay, a section of dunes have been set aside for fun and adventure sports. The town borders the northern section of the Namib-Naukluft Park, encompassing one of the most bewitching desert wilderness areas in Africa.

Stretching north of Swakopmund is the Skeleton Coast, aptly named for the many shipwrecks along this coastline. The Skeleton Coast National Park is more then 5,000 km2 of Namib Desert featuring wind-hewn dunes, rugged canyons and jagged mountain peaks. The southern section of the Park is accessible by vehicle for exploration of the courses of the Ugab and Hoanib Rivers. The northern area is a designated wilderness reserve and can only be accessed by fly-in safaris.

Etosha National Park is one of Africa's great parks in both size (22,270 km2) and diversity of wildlife. The vast salt pan is a silvery-white shallow depression filled water only during the rainy season. Springs on the edge of the pan attract wildlife and birds during the dry season. In October and November, large herds of blue wildebeest, zebra, springbok and oryx migrate from the Namutoni area to Okaukuejo, where they remain until May. Lion and rhino are commonly seen, and leopard sightings are fairly frequent. 325 species of birds have been recorded in the Park.

The Eastern Caprivi Strip is fertile and largely undeveloped, with lush riverine ecosystems supporting abundant game and birdlife. Impalila Island is at the confluence of the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers, and is home to a large number of lodges offering game viewing boat cruises, game drives into Chobe National Park, and fantastic tiger fishing opportunities.

The winter months (May - Sept) range from 25 to 30°C; night temperatures may drop to below freezing. No rain is experienced during these months.

The summer months (Oct - April) can reach highs of over 40°C and nights in the 20°C range. This is a summer rainfall area, but overcast and rainy days are few and far between.

Welcome thundershowers may occur in the late afternoon, bringing relief to flora and fauna.

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Tanzania is unsurpassed for its magnificent scenery: from the snow-capped heights of Mount Kilimanjaro to the exquisite floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, the jewel-like costal islands to the awe-inspiring Great Rift Valley, the natural splendours set the stage for the astoundingly diverse wildlife.

Tanzania's natural endowment as a wildlife safari destination is unrivalled. Wild animals roam in vast uncrowded and unspoilt areas. The magnificent collection of game sanctuaries to the north of the country, near the border with Kenya, is referred to as the Northern Circuit. This is the most popular and accessible wildlife safari route in Tanzania, and is considered as one of the finest game viewing areas anywhere in the world.

Tanzania's spectacular wilderness and national parks feature a wealth of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, rhino, cheetah, wild dog, hippo, zebra and giraffe - plus the famous 'Jane Goodall' chimpanzees on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The annual Great Migration of millions of herbivores is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; it can be viewed at various Tanzanian and Kenyan locations throughout the year. Tanzania also boasts over 1000 species of birds and 35 antelope species, as well as a great diversity of fish found in Africa's three largest lakes (Victoria, Tanganyika and Niassa) all of which border Tanzania.

Arusha

Arusha, a city of northern Tanzania is surrounded by some of Africa's most famous landscapes and national parks. Beautifully situated below Mount Meru on the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley, it has a pleasant climate and is close to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as having its own Arusha National Park on Mount Meru.

Arusha is home to two influential museums; the National Natural History Museum, which contains the 3 500 000 year old Laetoli Footprints, and the Arusha Declaration National Museum, dedicated to the Tanzanian Freedom Movement of the 60s.

Mount Kilimanjaro

The "crown of Africa", Mt Kilimanjaro stands just 120 miles south of the equator, on the northern boundary of Tanzania. Its location and size strongly influence the climate, vegetation, animal life and the climbing conditions.

Considered one of the easiest mountains to climb, Mount Kilimanjaro is also excellent for scenic hikes. Wildlife sightings are good, and although birdlife is not prolific, there are some interesting species such as alpine chat and the rare bearded vulture. The best climbing on Mount Kilimanjaro is from August to October and from January to March.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater forms part of the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area where the wildlife is protected. The local Maasai have permission to graze their cattle on the Crater floor, and it is not unusual to see Maasai cattle and buffalo grazing together, with a lion gazing fixedly mere metres away.

There are around 70 lions in the Crater, and about 15 black rhino, and the spectacular Lerai Forest is one of the best places in Africa to spot leopard.

Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park is a birding paradise (with more than 400 species), and the forests are famous for lion sightings. Lions hunt on the grassy shores of the Lake, and are well known for climbing and lounging in trees.

The Park was once favoured by big game hunters - Ernest Hemingway featured it in his book 'The Green Hills of Africa'. Today the wildlife is protected, and includes vervet monkeys, baboons, Maasai giraffe and impala.

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti's unique ecosystem is one of the oldest on earth; it's climate, vegetation and fauna have barely changed in the past million years. It has inspired writers, filmmakers and numerous photographers and scientists .Two World Heritage Sites and two Biosphere Reserves have been established within the region.

The Serengeti is also famous for its rocky outcrops and its big cat sightings. The Park features a number of seasonal rivers where Africa's largest crocodiles are to be found. Birdlife in the Serengeti is prolific, with Yellow throated sandgrouse, ostrich, Secretary bird, Crowned plover and Kori bustard are most frequently seen.

Peoples & Culture

Tanzania is made up of 100 or so tribal groups of mainly Bantu origin. None of these groups comprise more than 10% of the population and this perhaps contributes to the tranquility the country has experienced. Arab and Persian influence is strong in Zanzibar. The interaction of Arabs and Bantu Africans has resulted in the Swahili language now widely spoken in Eastern and Central Africa. English is widely understood in urban centers.

Tanzania has a wide range of local cuisine, ingredients, simply prepared with an African flavour; make sure to experience the traditional seafood and rice based dishes on the coast. The most popular drink is a very decent brew known as Safari Lager. Fresh vegetarian and Halaal dietary requirements can be catered for, but it is difficult to find strictly kosher meals.

Late March to late May is traditionally the 'long rainy' season in Tanzania. June to late October is the dry season. November to mid December is when the 'short rains' occur, usually in the form of magnificent and short-lived thunderstorms.

The Zanzibar and the coastal areas are hot and humid and average daily temperatures hover in the 30°C range. Sea breezes however temper the regions' climate and June to September is coolest with temperatures falling to 25°C. In the Kilimanjaro area, temperatures vary from 15°C in May-August period to 22°C over December - March. As you head to the peaks of Kilimanjaro, temperatures can drop to below freezing, especially at night

Zanzibar is a few degrees south of the equator and enjoys a tropical climate that is largely dominated by the Indian Ocean monsoons. Average temperature in the summer months is 27°C and in the winter months is 24°C. It is very humid all year round, particularly in the summer monsoon rain period. April and May experience the highest rainfall with figures averaging at 249mm and July and August with the lowest averaging 60mm.

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Zanzibar is an island partner state of Tanzania. The Zanzibar cluster is set in the Indian Ocean and made up of the larger islands of Pemba and Unguja (also called Zanzibar Island). Zanzibar is known as the 'Spice Island' due to the delicious variety of spices grown on the island (such as cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla).

Zanzibar is characterised by beautiful sandy beaches with fringing coral reefs, clear blue waters and excellent reefs for snorkeling, diving and water sports. Attractions on Zanzibar include the historical town of Stone Town, the exclusive island of Mnemba Island and Zanzibar's pristine and untouched East Coast.

Stone Town

Stone Town was originally a major trading station for the East African coast, and the city still boasts the fascinating architecture of the many Arabs and sultans of old. The original owners competed with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings and this is reflected particularly in the brass-studded, carved, wooden doors adorning the beautiful old buildings.

Although much of Zanzibar's history can be traced through Stone Town's residential architecture, evidence of its cultural fusion is also found in the many other historical buildings and markets dotted around the town; The House of Wonders, the Palace Museum, Dr Livingstone's House, Arab Fort and Marahubi Ruins to name a few.

There are a multitude of historical buildings in Stone Town, and most of these are within walking distance of each other. Building to see include: Forodhani Gardens, The Palace Museum and St Joseph's Cathedral.

Mnemba Island

The calm, azure seas around Mnemba Island offer irresistible snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming directly from the beach. A walk around the Island reveals a variety of sea birds, whilst snorkelling amongst the house coral reefs introduces one to the magnificent colourful aquatic world. Turtle season is between December and May, and these prehistoric creatures can be seen laying their eggs on the beaches.

The East Coast

The beaches along the East Coast of Zanzibar are simply paradise, interspersed with picturesque fishing villages, where the locals live a very relaxed life. The main form of economy along the remote East Coast is by way of fishing and selling dry seaweed. To support the tourist trade, many of the locals open up their homes to visitors, offering a unique way of experiencing this beautiful island.

Peoples & Culture

The majority of people on the island follow the Muslim faith. Dress code to them is of particular importance and it is suggested that women try to dress fairly conservatively in order not to offend the local people. An Arabic influence is also evident in the people, who are a mix of Shirazia (from Persia), Arabs, Comorians (from the Comoros Islands) and Bantu from the mainland. The official language of Zanzibar is Kiswahili. Most residents have a good knowledge of English, Italian and various Arabic dialects.

Zanzibar's most world famous musician is Freddie Mercury! He was born Farrokh Bulsara on September 5th 1946 in Zanzibar, to parents Bomi & Jer Bulsara, who were Parsees - members of the Zoroastrian faith.

Zanzibar is at the heart of the distinctive Taraab, or sung poetry, tradition. The goddess of this haunting style is Siti bint Saad, the first East African singer to make commercial recordings, way back in 1928.

Tarabu is the African-Islamic music popular on the island. Tarab is popularly known as Swahili wedding music, since tarabu musicians and music are an essential part of these multi-day festivities. Instruments used include violins, accordions, cellos and tambourines.

The long rains typically occur in winter, from the end of March until the end of May. The dry season is from June until late October, when the days are hot and the evenings are cool. The short rains (normally brief thunderstorms) typically occur in summer, from late October until mid December, bring relief to hot days.

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (September - April)	32 °C	4 °C
Winter (May - August)	23 °C	8 °C
Rainfall: Varies regionally

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (October -April)	45 °C	25 °C
Winter ( May - September)	26 °C	0 °C
Rainfall: October - November - March

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (October - April)	30 °C	14 °C
Winter ( May - September)	20 °C	5 °C
Rainfall: November - March

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (September - April)	30 °	20 °
Winter (May - August)	25 °	19 °
Rainfall: April - May (Long rains) November - Mid December (short rains)

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (September - April)	30 °C	26 °C
Winter (May - August)	23 °C	20 °C
Rainfall: November - March

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (September - April)	34 °C	20 °C
Winter (May - August)	25 °C	11 °C
Rainfall: April - May (long rains) November - Mid December (short rains)

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (October - April)	40 °C	20 °C
Winter (May - September)	25 °C	0 °C
Rainfall: October - April

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (September -April)	30 °C	20 °C
Winter ( May - August)	25 °C	19 °C
Rainfall: Late March - May (Long Rains), November - Mid December (Short Rains)

Seasons	Max	Min
Summer (December -March)	30 °C	20 °C
Winter ( March - May)	25 °C	19 °C
Rainfall: April - May (Long Rains), November - Mid December (Short Rains)