Egypt and Kenya represent 2 very different sides of Africa in terms of travelers’ attractions. This is true in all aspects – history, culture and the people. On the one hand is Egypt, rich in history and archaeology and on the other hand is Kenya, famous for the Safari.
At tour of Africa combining the African wildlife Safari experience of Kenya and the sojourn into the ancient civilization of Egypt is a not so resistible to serious travelers
Getting the right flow of Your Egypt and Kenya Tour program
You can never have enough time off your work schedule to see enough of Egypt. And to add an African Safari to it makes it appear like an impossible task to accomplish. But it can be done. To enjoy this combined tour, it is advisable to put aside at least 16 days – 14 days for your actual tours and the extra days for your flights into and out of Africa. It is of course possible to have shorter versions of the combination, but it might not work out so well.
Assuming your begin your tour at Cairo and not Nairobi, you will need at least 2 days in Cairo just for the antiquities in and around Cairo. This will include the Pyramids and the museums.
Next, dedicate at least 2 full days for Luxor to enough of the attractions in and around Luxor. Traveling from Cairo to Luxor can be either by bus, overnight train or air. The choice will depend on how much time you would like to save and also on your pocket. The bus journey can get very uncomfortable in the hot weather. The flight is fast, but might be expensive.
The Nile Cruise demands at least 3 days for meaningful sightseeing before your return to Cairo and take the flight from North Africa to East Africa.
It is recommended that you rest for a night in Nairobi, Kenya before starting your wildlife adventure. A fulfilling Safari in Kenya would take up at least 7 of your days. That would allow you to visit some of the famous national parks. If you choose to take your safari by road as a means of transport, beware of the road conditions into the parks. The distances might appear short but the drive could be grueling due to the nature of the roads. Transportation by air by save you time and enhance your experience too. If your flight out is not a late evening flight, try to spend your last night in Nairobi so that you have enough time on your side.
EGYPT - Places you must visit while in Egypt
Traveling to Egypt is like turning back the clock. There are marvelous footprints of ancient man’s civilization. Anyone interested in man’s ancient civilization thinks of Egypt. And this is with very good reasons. There are just too many intriguing wonders in Egypt – the pyramids, the temples, the tombs the Nile and many more.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are the last surviving members of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. It has been a tourist destination for centuries and continues to draw immense interest from all over the world. Each of the 3 main pyramids here is a tomb to a different Pharaoh. The Sphinx, a huge lion-like sculpture lies in front of the pyramids, keeping guard.
Luxor is Egypt’s most impressive archeological spectacles. The Temple of Luxor was the center of one of the most important festivals celebrated by the people of Thebes. This important festival was known as the festival of Opet. Built largely by Amenhotep III and Ramesses II, it appears that the temple's purpose was for a suitable setting for the rituals of the festival. The festival itself was to reconcile the human aspect of the ruler with the divine office. The temple of Luxor is worth touring while you are in Egypt.
The Temple of Karnak.
One of the most impressive archaeological sites in Egypt is Karnak. Even though it is badly ruined, it stands as the largest temple complex ever built by man. The Temple of Karnak is actually made up of three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples located about 3 kilometers north of Luxor. Karnak is actually the site’s modern name. Its ancient name was Ipet-isut, meaning "The Most Select (or Sacred) of Places".
The Valley of the Kings
The site today called the Valley of the Kings is a secluded dry gully were all the kings and occasionally other high officials of the 18th Dynasty were buried.
The Nile Cruise
In spite of the fact there are other means of transportation available for you while on your great historical and archaeological adventures, the Nile Cruise still remains an exciting way to enjoy your sight-seeing in Egypt. The cruise starts from Luxor or Aswan. From Luxor, the tours cruise down the Nile to Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and end in Aswan.
You can also fly from Cairo direct to Aswan and then work your way northwards down the Nile to the same sights – Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna and end up at Luxor.
For the Nile Cruise, there are many options to choose from depending on your budget and desire for comfort. Many of the cruise ships offer a considerable variety in form of entertainment on board. .
Other Interesting sights in Egypt
Depending on the number of days you have, and your budget of course, the other interesting areas you would want to include in your program are Abu Simbel – 3 hours away by road from Aswan. Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Hathor are of interest.
Alexandria is just 2 hours 30 minutes by road or train from Cairo. The pace of life is much slower than Cairo.
The Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada are a big hit with divers. And travelers who enjoy nightlife will find their comfort zone here too, as it is filled with nightclubs. Those traveling with kids will also find the Red sea idea – the beaches.
KENYA - What to include on your Kenya Safari portion of the tour
Kenya is the wildlife safari’s paradise. For the African wildlife lovers, there are over 50 game reserves, parks and private game sanctuaries spread all around the country. And accommodation in the main cities and even in the parks provide services of international standards. You will find hotels run by top international companies like Fairmont Hotels and Resorts and Intercontinental.
Game viewing in Kenya is simply stunning. Some of the wonderful parks you are encouraged to visit are the Maasai Mara game reserve. At the Mara you will see the big five -Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo. At Amboseli National park you are not likely to leave without seeing elephants - living side by side with the most celebrated culture in the world, the Maasai people.
Samburu game reserve is home to the Samburu people and the Reticulated Giraffe and Beisa Oryx. Tsavo National park – for the Hippos and Lake Nakuru National park – for the flamingos and Rhinos.
If you include the famous Maasai Mara in your travel program, and you travel between June and October, you might witness the great animal migration. The wildebeest and zebra start their migration from Tanzania’s Serengeti in May and arrive Maasai Mara during July. They begin the return journey back into Tanzania towards the end of October.
This animal migration is an experience beyond belief. Many have described it as one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles. A hot-air balloon flight over the dotted plains of the Maasai Mara will enhance your experience of seeing this great spectacle.
About the Author:
Solomon Okila is Editor African Voyages Ltd. For more details on Egypt Tours and Kenya Safari and African Hotels, Lodges and Tourist Information visit our the website at http://www.africanvoyages.com
Friday, 30 January 2009
Wednesday, 28 January 2009
The All-Inclusive African Vacation – what to expect in that package
The all-inclusive option of vacation is a popular and convenient option if you want to enjoy a relaxed holiday. It ensures you do not have to worry about small time bills that might slow you down during your vacation. And you have full access to a variety of amenities without any extra charges.
However, the term ‘All Inclusive’ vacation seems a bit ambiguous to many new or first-time holiday-seekers. Your understanding of the term will depend on many other considerations as well. For instance, it will depend on the nature of the vacation you have in mind – cruise, adventure, luxury, wildlife safari vacation etc. It may also depend on holiday destination – Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia etc.
To some, an All-Inclusive vacation package might suggest that all the aspects of your holiday are included in the package upon the payment of one single fee. That may or may not be the case. For example flights may or not be included, travel insurance is normally not included. Your travel agent or Safari outfitter making the travel arrangements on your behalf will explain what is included in the all-inclusive vacation package. It is important that you clearly understand the contents of the deal as offered by the travel agent. Otherwise a feeling of being short-changed might ruin your holiday, if you expected something, just to be told upon arrival that you have to pay for it!
For an all inclusive vacation to Africa with the family, the major concerns would not only be about what is included, but also the balance of interest between all the members of the family. For example for the children, you certainly need to worry about activities that will keep them busy and interest during the entire vacation period. Most of the activities, for both adults and children would be included as part of the package. But would still be activities that are left out of the package for various reasons. Hot Air balloon excursion over the African savannahs would be an example of activities that would not be part of your package.
In very general terms, the all-inclusive Safari vacation to Africa would include the following items:
Air Tickets: Return flight from your country into Africa and back. The flight portion is normally part of your all-inclusive package. It may be that it is one of the items not included but would be included only after your have asked the travel agent to include it. And, if you are purchasing a package that requires internal or regional flights within your destination, it is important to agree with your travel agent in advance to either include or exclude these portions.
Local Transportation: This includes your arrival pick up from the local airport to the hotel when you arrive at your holiday destination. On local transport, any movement to and from tours and excursions that are included in your all inclusive package will be covered. But in most cases, local excursions and tours are not included. Should you decide to take up any of these tours during your vacation, you will settle this bill. Your transportation during the safari in the African wilderness is certainly part of the package. And of course, your transportation back to the airport, on the last day, would normally be guaranteed as part of the all-inclusive package.
Meals: Full board and snacks. This means all your meals – 3 meals together with snacks in between are included in the amount you pay for the package. In some hotels, the meals are taken at specific times of the day. Guidelines will be given either in advance of on arrival at your destination.
Drinks: These would normally include soft drinks, bottled water, teas, coffees, local beer, house wine with meals and national spirits. If you take a high-end luxury package, your laundry services might be part of the package.
Activities: All the activities offered at the facility would be accessible to you. If are taking an all inclusive vacation beach, these would include, for example, water sports, beach volleyball, water polo or table tennis – assuming the hotel question has the facilities. If you package includes a safari, these might include bush walks, visits to the local villages, camel rides, bush breakfast or dinner etc. There would however be some activities that would not be included – like Hot Air Balloon flight.
Entertainment: Daily entertainment would be part of your all-inclusive package. This might be in the form of traditional dances or music while at your hotel or lodge. Other types of performances may be in form of acrobatics or lectures on the local way of life.
However, an exhaustive list of items included in or excluded from your all-inclusive African Safari Package cannot be made here. It should be made clear to you at the time of purchasing your package.
About the author:
Solomon Okila is Editor African Voyages Ltd, your guide to Africa Travel and Safari Information and African Hotels, Lodges and Tourist Information.
However, the term ‘All Inclusive’ vacation seems a bit ambiguous to many new or first-time holiday-seekers. Your understanding of the term will depend on many other considerations as well. For instance, it will depend on the nature of the vacation you have in mind – cruise, adventure, luxury, wildlife safari vacation etc. It may also depend on holiday destination – Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia etc.
To some, an All-Inclusive vacation package might suggest that all the aspects of your holiday are included in the package upon the payment of one single fee. That may or may not be the case. For example flights may or not be included, travel insurance is normally not included. Your travel agent or Safari outfitter making the travel arrangements on your behalf will explain what is included in the all-inclusive vacation package. It is important that you clearly understand the contents of the deal as offered by the travel agent. Otherwise a feeling of being short-changed might ruin your holiday, if you expected something, just to be told upon arrival that you have to pay for it!
For an all inclusive vacation to Africa with the family, the major concerns would not only be about what is included, but also the balance of interest between all the members of the family. For example for the children, you certainly need to worry about activities that will keep them busy and interest during the entire vacation period. Most of the activities, for both adults and children would be included as part of the package. But would still be activities that are left out of the package for various reasons. Hot Air balloon excursion over the African savannahs would be an example of activities that would not be part of your package.
In very general terms, the all-inclusive Safari vacation to Africa would include the following items:
Air Tickets: Return flight from your country into Africa and back. The flight portion is normally part of your all-inclusive package. It may be that it is one of the items not included but would be included only after your have asked the travel agent to include it. And, if you are purchasing a package that requires internal or regional flights within your destination, it is important to agree with your travel agent in advance to either include or exclude these portions.
Local Transportation: This includes your arrival pick up from the local airport to the hotel when you arrive at your holiday destination. On local transport, any movement to and from tours and excursions that are included in your all inclusive package will be covered. But in most cases, local excursions and tours are not included. Should you decide to take up any of these tours during your vacation, you will settle this bill. Your transportation during the safari in the African wilderness is certainly part of the package. And of course, your transportation back to the airport, on the last day, would normally be guaranteed as part of the all-inclusive package.
Meals: Full board and snacks. This means all your meals – 3 meals together with snacks in between are included in the amount you pay for the package. In some hotels, the meals are taken at specific times of the day. Guidelines will be given either in advance of on arrival at your destination.
Drinks: These would normally include soft drinks, bottled water, teas, coffees, local beer, house wine with meals and national spirits. If you take a high-end luxury package, your laundry services might be part of the package.
Activities: All the activities offered at the facility would be accessible to you. If are taking an all inclusive vacation beach, these would include, for example, water sports, beach volleyball, water polo or table tennis – assuming the hotel question has the facilities. If you package includes a safari, these might include bush walks, visits to the local villages, camel rides, bush breakfast or dinner etc. There would however be some activities that would not be included – like Hot Air Balloon flight.
Entertainment: Daily entertainment would be part of your all-inclusive package. This might be in the form of traditional dances or music while at your hotel or lodge. Other types of performances may be in form of acrobatics or lectures on the local way of life.
However, an exhaustive list of items included in or excluded from your all-inclusive African Safari Package cannot be made here. It should be made clear to you at the time of purchasing your package.
About the author:
Solomon Okila is Editor African Voyages Ltd, your guide to Africa Travel and Safari Information and African Hotels, Lodges and Tourist Information.
Thursday, 11 September 2008
First photos of African 'unicorn' captured
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Camera traps set by the ZSL and the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN) captured pictures of the okapi in Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The pictures have dispelled fears that the species had died out in more than a decade of civil war.
Rare Picture of African Unicorn
Dr Noelle Kumpel, ZSL's Bushmeat and Forests Conservation Program Manager, said: "To have captured the first-ever photographs of such a charismatic creature is amazing, and particularly special for ZSL given that the species was originally described here over a century ago.
"Okapi are very shy and rare animals, which is why conventional surveys only tend to record droppings and other signs of their presence."
The okapi, which have a black, giraffe-like tongue and zebra-like stripes on their behind, were last spotted in the Virunga National Park nearly 50 years ago on the west bank of the Semliki River.
The new ZSL survey revealed a previously unknown okapi population on the east side of the river.
Thierry Lusenge, a member of ZSL's Democratic Republic of Congo survey team, said: "The photographs clearly show the stripes on their rear, which act like unique fingerprints.
"We have already identified three individuals, and further survey work will enable us to estimate population numbers and distribution in and around the park, which is a critical first step in targeting conservation efforts."
The exact status of the okapi is unknown as civil conflict and poor infrastructure makes access to the forests of DRC difficult.
The African Unicorn
But ZSL warned that even the newly discovered okapi population was under threat from poachers.
Okapi meat, reportedly from the Virunga park, is now on sale in the nearby town of Beni and ZSL warned that if hunting continues at the current rate, okapi could become extinct in the park within a few years.
Wednesday, 11 June 2008
Egypt Vacation – Combine the rich archaeological tour with Red Sea Riviera splendor
Egypt is a truly amazing country. It is a breathtaking country with thousands of years of rich tradition and history, plus some of the most outstanding landscapes in the world. Very few people - even those who have never traveled to Egypt but only hear or read about Egyptian safari – believe this. Because it is true. This North African country has a long history full of events. Events that shaped the history of the world and charted the destiny of the world’s civilization. Egypt is also the home of Cairo, the largest City in Africa - with a population of about 11 million people.
The annual ever-faithful and regular Nile River flooding, the survival instincts of the people, together with steadfast rulers in the form pharaohs, paved the way to excellence.
This combination appears to have conspired to nurture one of the world’s greatest civilizations of the ancient world. This, again, in spite of the apparent isolation from the eastern and western borders by the fierce desert.
Today, Egypt is where the past meets the present. It is a country of enormous contradictions where ancient traditions live harmoniously with modern technology. Egypt is where the western civilization meets the ever-living eastern traditions. The present Egypt is a welcoming and tolerant country where everybody can feel at home. From students of archeology to business travelers, to couples on honeymoon, to inter-generational families – all will feel very much at home while on vacation in Egypt.
To the discerning holiday-maker, Egypt can offer that all-in-one package that is not so easy to get in a single destination. Most travelers considering a vacation to Egypt will probably be influenced by the rich tradition, deep history, amazing archeological sites and rich culture that are Egypt’s background. The images and narrations about the pyramids, the temples and the museums will certainly direct your thoughts. Yet these are just a few of what Egypt has to offer to you as a visitor. These are only but the better-known of Egypt’s attractions. There is a lot more in the form of the
Red Sea Riviera.
Away from, or rather apart from, the very interesting artifacts, the pyramids, the temples, the sphinx and tombs, there is much more. We would like you to look at Egypt beyond the pyramids, to the world renowned Red Sea Riviera. Consider extending your vacation and visit the Egyptian beach resorts. You will not regret spending your time on the beautiful beach resort cities of Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh and the other equally beautiful resorts on the Riviera. These resorts are known for their uniqueness. If the length of your entire vacation is anything between 9 days and 16 days, you can enjoy a vacation of a life time combining both the historical and the seashore sites. This will allow you to split your time between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan etc and then finally finished up at any one of the resorts on the Rea Sea, on the eastern shore of mainland Egypt and to the south of the Gulf of Suez – the area known as the Red Sea Riviera.
As you begin the process of gathering information for your Egypt tour vacation, close your eyes and imagine yourself in one of the most beautiful and famous deep-sea diving paradises in the world. Think of crystal clear water, magnificent corals, exotic underwater plants and rare tropical fish. Imagine whatever it is that represents your perfect deep-sea diving or beach holiday. Let your imagination loose and picture the splendor of the white sandy beaches and the crystal clear blue waters of the sea.
Hurghada
Hurgada was founded in the early 20th century. Over the years, the once small fishing village has developed into a formidable tourist destination. It is actually the largest, most developed seashore resort on the Red Sea Riviera. Hurghada offers the ultimate prize for the lovers of aquatic sports including kiting, sailing, deep-sea-fishing, snorkeling and scuba divers. Because it is centrally located in comparison with the other resorts along the Red Sea, Hurghada is more or less the entry point to accessing the other diving sites including off-shore islands.
El Gouna
Another water-sports haven is located roughly 20 kilometers north of Hurghada.
El Gouna presents two main beach fronts: Mangroovy Beach and Zeytoona Beach. The resort was developed and is owned by Orascom Hotels. There are more than 10 hotels in thee range of 3 star to 5 star. Plus a golf course of course.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh has been heralded as the ‘City of Peace’. This is in recognition of the various peace conferences that have been held there. Here you also find sulphur springs that many believe to have medicinal value and can cure those suffering from rheumatic and skin ailments.
The outline of Sharm El Sheikh’s coastline is one of its kinds. It is the cosmopolitan capital of the Sinai Peninsula. It has the large hotel complexes owned and managed by international hotel chains as well as the smaller, intimate hotels with modern designs and taste. You will also find just about all the amenities you would expect of a tourist centre, including casinos, discos, nightclubs, golf courses and well as health facilities.
Hotel accommodation standards are very high, actually world-class. Respected brand names in hotel management like Hyatt Regency, Accor, Marriot, Le Meridien, Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, Hard Rock Café, Kentucky Fried Chicken and McDonalds have their presence firm in Sharm El Sheikh.
Sharm el Maya
This is the name given to the bay area of the old town of Sharm el Sheikh. This picturesque bay is a natural harbor and home to many small boats. The beautiful sandy beach has a profusion of palm trees providing natural shade for the sun loungers. This beach area of Sharm El Maya has only recently been developed with 5 star hotels and the old town is only a short walk away.
Naama Bay
After Sharm El Maya, we introduce to you Naama Bay. This long sandy bay was where the first hotel was set up in the early eighties. The development of the shore-line on this bay is now complete and the seafront boasts a beautiful paved walk-way, lined with bougainvillea and oleander, following the full sweep of the bay. Naama Bay is the place to be in the evenings while you enjoy your vacation on the Red Sea Riviera. Here you will find shops, restaurants, bars and all.
Ras Um Sid Cliff
This cliff top area links Naama Bay and the bay of Sharm El Maya. Ras Um Sid is centrally situated at just about 5 minutes drive from Sharm in one direction and Naama in the other direction. Um El Sid is also famous for its coral reefs and has a very high cliff, where many of the hotels are situated. This is a prime diving area and you will find a wide selection of companies that offer diving courses. You can undertake your PADI qualification at a very good price.
There is very little chance that boredom will find place in your vacation on the Egyptian Red Sea Riviera. A wide variety of activities are available to choose from. Diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, horse and camel riding, desert safaris are just some of the options you will have make.
Access to the Red Sea Riviera is easily achieved from Cairo. You can get into Egypt through Cairo and connect a local flight into Hurghada International Airport. The Hurghada International Airport also receives direct flights from Europe cities.
Solomon Okila
Editor - African Voyages Ltd
Specialists in Kenya safari, Tanzania Safari, Egyptian Safari
The annual ever-faithful and regular Nile River flooding, the survival instincts of the people, together with steadfast rulers in the form pharaohs, paved the way to excellence.
This combination appears to have conspired to nurture one of the world’s greatest civilizations of the ancient world. This, again, in spite of the apparent isolation from the eastern and western borders by the fierce desert.
Today, Egypt is where the past meets the present. It is a country of enormous contradictions where ancient traditions live harmoniously with modern technology. Egypt is where the western civilization meets the ever-living eastern traditions. The present Egypt is a welcoming and tolerant country where everybody can feel at home. From students of archeology to business travelers, to couples on honeymoon, to inter-generational families – all will feel very much at home while on vacation in Egypt.
To the discerning holiday-maker, Egypt can offer that all-in-one package that is not so easy to get in a single destination. Most travelers considering a vacation to Egypt will probably be influenced by the rich tradition, deep history, amazing archeological sites and rich culture that are Egypt’s background. The images and narrations about the pyramids, the temples and the museums will certainly direct your thoughts. Yet these are just a few of what Egypt has to offer to you as a visitor. These are only but the better-known of Egypt’s attractions. There is a lot more in the form of the
Red Sea Riviera.
Away from, or rather apart from, the very interesting artifacts, the pyramids, the temples, the sphinx and tombs, there is much more. We would like you to look at Egypt beyond the pyramids, to the world renowned Red Sea Riviera. Consider extending your vacation and visit the Egyptian beach resorts. You will not regret spending your time on the beautiful beach resort cities of Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh and the other equally beautiful resorts on the Riviera. These resorts are known for their uniqueness. If the length of your entire vacation is anything between 9 days and 16 days, you can enjoy a vacation of a life time combining both the historical and the seashore sites. This will allow you to split your time between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan etc and then finally finished up at any one of the resorts on the Rea Sea, on the eastern shore of mainland Egypt and to the south of the Gulf of Suez – the area known as the Red Sea Riviera.
As you begin the process of gathering information for your Egypt tour vacation, close your eyes and imagine yourself in one of the most beautiful and famous deep-sea diving paradises in the world. Think of crystal clear water, magnificent corals, exotic underwater plants and rare tropical fish. Imagine whatever it is that represents your perfect deep-sea diving or beach holiday. Let your imagination loose and picture the splendor of the white sandy beaches and the crystal clear blue waters of the sea.
Hurghada
Hurgada was founded in the early 20th century. Over the years, the once small fishing village has developed into a formidable tourist destination. It is actually the largest, most developed seashore resort on the Red Sea Riviera. Hurghada offers the ultimate prize for the lovers of aquatic sports including kiting, sailing, deep-sea-fishing, snorkeling and scuba divers. Because it is centrally located in comparison with the other resorts along the Red Sea, Hurghada is more or less the entry point to accessing the other diving sites including off-shore islands.
El Gouna
Another water-sports haven is located roughly 20 kilometers north of Hurghada.
El Gouna presents two main beach fronts: Mangroovy Beach and Zeytoona Beach. The resort was developed and is owned by Orascom Hotels. There are more than 10 hotels in thee range of 3 star to 5 star. Plus a golf course of course.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh has been heralded as the ‘City of Peace’. This is in recognition of the various peace conferences that have been held there. Here you also find sulphur springs that many believe to have medicinal value and can cure those suffering from rheumatic and skin ailments.
The outline of Sharm El Sheikh’s coastline is one of its kinds. It is the cosmopolitan capital of the Sinai Peninsula. It has the large hotel complexes owned and managed by international hotel chains as well as the smaller, intimate hotels with modern designs and taste. You will also find just about all the amenities you would expect of a tourist centre, including casinos, discos, nightclubs, golf courses and well as health facilities.
Hotel accommodation standards are very high, actually world-class. Respected brand names in hotel management like Hyatt Regency, Accor, Marriot, Le Meridien, Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, Hard Rock Café, Kentucky Fried Chicken and McDonalds have their presence firm in Sharm El Sheikh.
Sharm el Maya
This is the name given to the bay area of the old town of Sharm el Sheikh. This picturesque bay is a natural harbor and home to many small boats. The beautiful sandy beach has a profusion of palm trees providing natural shade for the sun loungers. This beach area of Sharm El Maya has only recently been developed with 5 star hotels and the old town is only a short walk away.
Naama Bay
After Sharm El Maya, we introduce to you Naama Bay. This long sandy bay was where the first hotel was set up in the early eighties. The development of the shore-line on this bay is now complete and the seafront boasts a beautiful paved walk-way, lined with bougainvillea and oleander, following the full sweep of the bay. Naama Bay is the place to be in the evenings while you enjoy your vacation on the Red Sea Riviera. Here you will find shops, restaurants, bars and all.
Ras Um Sid Cliff
This cliff top area links Naama Bay and the bay of Sharm El Maya. Ras Um Sid is centrally situated at just about 5 minutes drive from Sharm in one direction and Naama in the other direction. Um El Sid is also famous for its coral reefs and has a very high cliff, where many of the hotels are situated. This is a prime diving area and you will find a wide selection of companies that offer diving courses. You can undertake your PADI qualification at a very good price.
There is very little chance that boredom will find place in your vacation on the Egyptian Red Sea Riviera. A wide variety of activities are available to choose from. Diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, horse and camel riding, desert safaris are just some of the options you will have make.
Access to the Red Sea Riviera is easily achieved from Cairo. You can get into Egypt through Cairo and connect a local flight into Hurghada International Airport. The Hurghada International Airport also receives direct flights from Europe cities.
Solomon Okila
Editor - African Voyages Ltd
Specialists in Kenya safari, Tanzania Safari, Egyptian Safari
Tuesday, 10 June 2008
Family Vacation – What does the age of your child mean for your budget and planning?
Planning a vacation is not an easy task. It might be easy if you know the destination well. The planning will certainly be easier when you are travelling alone. Even then, you might still find that you will need the travel agent or destination specialist to help you here and there especially if you have to make a big decision. When you are a single traveller, planning is easy because you know your interests and can easily sacrifice one interest to be able to achieve the other. But when or if another family member – for example a spouse - is also involved, then you have to be sensitive to their needs as well. That means more discussions, more deliberations, more considerations and more concerns.
When kids come into the mix, the situation gets a little complex. You have to deal with more challenging issues and you have trickier decisions to make. As you think about how best to enjoy yourself, and get the best value for your money, you also get concerned about the children’s safety, health, and comfort, interests, among other issues. Balancing these aspects of a trip is hard enough when only adults are planning. Having children come along obviously calls for a little more effort and attention to detail during your planning stages.
Let us now assume you have finally held that family meeting to discuss this very important matter of vacation. The consensus favoured travel to Africa. You have decided to go on a Safari in Kenya. And you are going with the children. How then do you proceed from here?
Kenya and Tanzania remain a great destination even for kids
Even with the changing faces of family travel, Kenya and Tanzania still remains a very attractive destination in Africa. Kenya’s magical attraction lies partly, in its contrasting physical features and to a great extent, in the wildlife. Within the borders of this same country, you will find beaches – both public and private, pockets of rainforests, steep rocky hills alongside flush green plains teeming with wildlife, cold mountains and hot deserts, all in one. The climate and the culture are almost as diverse.
This enchanting and alluring combination means you have a wide variety of options when it comes to planning your vacation to Africa. It also means families travelling with children have a wider range of options to explore. Needless to say, the age of the child or children involved will be one of the most important aspects that will guide the process of the vacation planning. For example, the age of the children will determine the type of vacation – adventure or beach or otherwise. It will have an effect on the cost. Some hotels may have age restrictions. Some activities may be too strenuous for children below a certain age.
Here is a summary of the connection between the age of children and the other aspects of the safari.
Age of children and type of Safari vacation
The type of safari you choose – whether on the adventurous side or beach vacation will be dependent on the age of the children. The age in turn determines many other things. For example what is their interest? At that age, are they able to appreciate nature, or meeting new people? Or would they have more fun playing with the sand instead? How much attention will they need while you are on holiday? Can trust other persons with the task of looking after them? If you are thinking of a particular resort, does it provide child-friendly environment? These are just a few of the things you are considering as you plan. The answers to these questions lead you to picking the right Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari.
Age of children and the cost of the Safari
The age of your child or children has implications on the pricing of the Safari. Most hotels, and by extension, most Safari outfitters, have a pricing policy that is guided, partly, by age. For the purpose of costing, they will consider the ages from birth to 2 years, as infancy. Persons falling within this age-group may be free of charge during their stay. Some other hotels will say accommodation is free but you pay for meals. You will therefore need to get a clarification on what is applicable in your case. From 2 years to 12 years, the person is considered a ‘child’. Again here there is a whole spectrum of policies and general procedures that the hotels and safari outfitters apply. Some will tell you they charge 50% of the adult rate on condition that the ‘child’ is sharing a room with 2 adults. Others may say 70%. You may also encounter a situation where the child’s rate changes depending on whether the child is sharing the room with 2 adults, 1 adult, or with another child or children. Avoid grey areas, just seek clarification as you plan.
The question of age and pricing gets a bit hazy and slippery from 12 years upwards. Definitions like ’young adults’ pop up. At 12 years you have a 'child' but at 15 years you have a young adult. The problem is that these definitions are not universal and therefore will not apply to all the service providers that you might come into contact with. Your best bet is to go with the definition fronted by your trusted travel agent of Safari outfitter. There is reason you want to insist on settling these seemingly minor issues in the process of arranging you vacation in Kenya. It might bring forth a minor dispute if not addressed in the beginning. For example, you might be considering your 13-year-old as a 'child', yet the hotel expects full adult rate to apply.
You might be considering doing a self-drive Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari where you will be making direct payments to the hotels, as opposed to a an all-inclusive Safari where you prepare a tour operator to take care of your payments on your behalf. In that case, it is worth noting that the National parks and Game reserves in consider persons below the age of 18 years as children and therefore the child rate should apply when paying the entrance fees to their facilities.
Age of children and age restrictions in some hotels
Some hotels have age restrictions. In simple terms, these hotels have rules that do not allow children below a certain age to stay in their facilities. These types of hotels are the ones commonly referred to as ‘tree hotels’. Generally, these are hotels that either have a natural waterhole or salt deposits that attract wild animals to come within the vicinity. This of course allows the visitors to view the animals from the comfort of their rooms or balconies. For this reason, these types of hotels place an age restriction on the basis that very small children may scare away the animals as the children play or cry. Find out if your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari itinerary might involve any form of age restriction from your Safari outfitter or destination specialist.
Age of children and Safari activities
If you intend to engage on safari activities while on your vacation, you will have to worry about the participation of the children as well. The age of the child will determine whether they will take part in some activities that may be part of the safari. For example, hot air balloon excursion in Maasai Mara, Serengeti or Amboseli is restricted to 12 years. This is obviously due to safety concerns. If you insist as a parent, you will be asked to sign a release form. Other activities that may have age restrictions are bush walks or hiking.
Age of children and flow of your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari itinerary
As you plan your vacation to Kenya, the age of your child will play a major role in determining the flow of your itinerary. For example, do you want to use road or air transportation? You may not want to subject your 5-year-old to a 5-hour-drive from Nairobi to Samburu game reserve. The scenic drive would certainly be worth the drive for the discerning adult who wants to see the country-side, the people and probably learn their way of life. But the young ones will find it taxing and exhausting. Such a consideration will lead you towards opting for the schedule flight option that will take you there in 40 minutes. You will probably spend a little bit more, but the kids enjoy the safari ultimately. That means your destination specialist will be good enough to be able to advise you on the best way to design your itinerary. With young children you need an itinerary that will avoid long, uninterrupted drives that may be on rough roads as well.
Age of children and the services in the hotels
Related to the question of the flow of itinerary is the matter of services delivered by hotels and lodges in your itinerary of choice. You will want to ensure wherever possible, you stay in hotels that are built with children in mind. This goes beyond the physical structures. It concerns that area of food, recreational facilities, staffing and all other services. The truth of the matter is the lodges that will serve you while you are on your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari will score differently, when it comes to ‘child-friendliness’. Some are better equipped than others. A few are simply not built for children.
Generally, one can say that within the mid-market range of larger lodges with many rooms, you will need to try harder and insist more if you are to a perfect lodge for a vacation that both adults and children will enjoy.
On the other hand, the smaller, up-market, boutique hotels appear to be better equipped for families with children. But again, this is a big generalization and you will need to keep asking for details of what you need.
If, in the process of planning your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari, you contact a lodge or hotel and ask the front office person if they will provide a baby cot and the persons hesitates in response or says they have to find out, that hotel is probably not wired for children. Drop it. And if you are planning your vacation with the assistance of a destination specialist, make it clear that you have such and such a wish with regard to the children. They should be able to suggest the best hotels that can meet your needs. But even if you decide to delegate this small matter to your destination specialist, remember to hang on to it as your own responsibility so that you it delivered. Keep insisting politely.
Age of children and room occupancy
Put differently, how many persons can be in a one room while on safari? You are travelling with your 2 children on Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari. There age is 8 and 14 years. You feel these are children and because you are concerned by their security especially at night in the African bush, you want be together in the same room. If this is your wish, you will have to ensure that the entire itinerary is booked on family rooms. This will be challenging because not many hotels and lodges have ‘family room’. The most comfortable number for hotels is 2 persons in a room. They are willing to do 3 persons in a room. Most are not ready to have a 4th bed in the rooms. Apart from the size of the rooms being a hindrance to this, the quality of comfort is also compromised.
Finally, as you plan your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari with children, I would advise that you avoid ready-made safari programs. These will look attractive, especially in terms of price, but they do not offer you the flexibility you need to ensure the children enjoy themselves. Ask your Safari outfitter or destination specialist to help you design a perfect child-friendly Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari.
Solomon Okila is Editor African Voyages Ltd Kenya/Tanzania Travel Guide and Tourist Information and African Hotels, Lodges and Tourist Information.
When kids come into the mix, the situation gets a little complex. You have to deal with more challenging issues and you have trickier decisions to make. As you think about how best to enjoy yourself, and get the best value for your money, you also get concerned about the children’s safety, health, and comfort, interests, among other issues. Balancing these aspects of a trip is hard enough when only adults are planning. Having children come along obviously calls for a little more effort and attention to detail during your planning stages.
Let us now assume you have finally held that family meeting to discuss this very important matter of vacation. The consensus favoured travel to Africa. You have decided to go on a Safari in Kenya. And you are going with the children. How then do you proceed from here?
Kenya and Tanzania remain a great destination even for kids
Even with the changing faces of family travel, Kenya and Tanzania still remains a very attractive destination in Africa. Kenya’s magical attraction lies partly, in its contrasting physical features and to a great extent, in the wildlife. Within the borders of this same country, you will find beaches – both public and private, pockets of rainforests, steep rocky hills alongside flush green plains teeming with wildlife, cold mountains and hot deserts, all in one. The climate and the culture are almost as diverse.
This enchanting and alluring combination means you have a wide variety of options when it comes to planning your vacation to Africa. It also means families travelling with children have a wider range of options to explore. Needless to say, the age of the child or children involved will be one of the most important aspects that will guide the process of the vacation planning. For example, the age of the children will determine the type of vacation – adventure or beach or otherwise. It will have an effect on the cost. Some hotels may have age restrictions. Some activities may be too strenuous for children below a certain age.
Here is a summary of the connection between the age of children and the other aspects of the safari.
Age of children and type of Safari vacation
The type of safari you choose – whether on the adventurous side or beach vacation will be dependent on the age of the children. The age in turn determines many other things. For example what is their interest? At that age, are they able to appreciate nature, or meeting new people? Or would they have more fun playing with the sand instead? How much attention will they need while you are on holiday? Can trust other persons with the task of looking after them? If you are thinking of a particular resort, does it provide child-friendly environment? These are just a few of the things you are considering as you plan. The answers to these questions lead you to picking the right Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari.
Age of children and the cost of the Safari
The age of your child or children has implications on the pricing of the Safari. Most hotels, and by extension, most Safari outfitters, have a pricing policy that is guided, partly, by age. For the purpose of costing, they will consider the ages from birth to 2 years, as infancy. Persons falling within this age-group may be free of charge during their stay. Some other hotels will say accommodation is free but you pay for meals. You will therefore need to get a clarification on what is applicable in your case. From 2 years to 12 years, the person is considered a ‘child’. Again here there is a whole spectrum of policies and general procedures that the hotels and safari outfitters apply. Some will tell you they charge 50% of the adult rate on condition that the ‘child’ is sharing a room with 2 adults. Others may say 70%. You may also encounter a situation where the child’s rate changes depending on whether the child is sharing the room with 2 adults, 1 adult, or with another child or children. Avoid grey areas, just seek clarification as you plan.
The question of age and pricing gets a bit hazy and slippery from 12 years upwards. Definitions like ’young adults’ pop up. At 12 years you have a 'child' but at 15 years you have a young adult. The problem is that these definitions are not universal and therefore will not apply to all the service providers that you might come into contact with. Your best bet is to go with the definition fronted by your trusted travel agent of Safari outfitter. There is reason you want to insist on settling these seemingly minor issues in the process of arranging you vacation in Kenya. It might bring forth a minor dispute if not addressed in the beginning. For example, you might be considering your 13-year-old as a 'child', yet the hotel expects full adult rate to apply.
You might be considering doing a self-drive Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari where you will be making direct payments to the hotels, as opposed to a an all-inclusive Safari where you prepare a tour operator to take care of your payments on your behalf. In that case, it is worth noting that the National parks and Game reserves in consider persons below the age of 18 years as children and therefore the child rate should apply when paying the entrance fees to their facilities.
Age of children and age restrictions in some hotels
Some hotels have age restrictions. In simple terms, these hotels have rules that do not allow children below a certain age to stay in their facilities. These types of hotels are the ones commonly referred to as ‘tree hotels’. Generally, these are hotels that either have a natural waterhole or salt deposits that attract wild animals to come within the vicinity. This of course allows the visitors to view the animals from the comfort of their rooms or balconies. For this reason, these types of hotels place an age restriction on the basis that very small children may scare away the animals as the children play or cry. Find out if your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari itinerary might involve any form of age restriction from your Safari outfitter or destination specialist.
Age of children and Safari activities
If you intend to engage on safari activities while on your vacation, you will have to worry about the participation of the children as well. The age of the child will determine whether they will take part in some activities that may be part of the safari. For example, hot air balloon excursion in Maasai Mara, Serengeti or Amboseli is restricted to 12 years. This is obviously due to safety concerns. If you insist as a parent, you will be asked to sign a release form. Other activities that may have age restrictions are bush walks or hiking.
Age of children and flow of your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari itinerary
As you plan your vacation to Kenya, the age of your child will play a major role in determining the flow of your itinerary. For example, do you want to use road or air transportation? You may not want to subject your 5-year-old to a 5-hour-drive from Nairobi to Samburu game reserve. The scenic drive would certainly be worth the drive for the discerning adult who wants to see the country-side, the people and probably learn their way of life. But the young ones will find it taxing and exhausting. Such a consideration will lead you towards opting for the schedule flight option that will take you there in 40 minutes. You will probably spend a little bit more, but the kids enjoy the safari ultimately. That means your destination specialist will be good enough to be able to advise you on the best way to design your itinerary. With young children you need an itinerary that will avoid long, uninterrupted drives that may be on rough roads as well.
Age of children and the services in the hotels
Related to the question of the flow of itinerary is the matter of services delivered by hotels and lodges in your itinerary of choice. You will want to ensure wherever possible, you stay in hotels that are built with children in mind. This goes beyond the physical structures. It concerns that area of food, recreational facilities, staffing and all other services. The truth of the matter is the lodges that will serve you while you are on your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari will score differently, when it comes to ‘child-friendliness’. Some are better equipped than others. A few are simply not built for children.
Generally, one can say that within the mid-market range of larger lodges with many rooms, you will need to try harder and insist more if you are to a perfect lodge for a vacation that both adults and children will enjoy.
On the other hand, the smaller, up-market, boutique hotels appear to be better equipped for families with children. But again, this is a big generalization and you will need to keep asking for details of what you need.
If, in the process of planning your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari, you contact a lodge or hotel and ask the front office person if they will provide a baby cot and the persons hesitates in response or says they have to find out, that hotel is probably not wired for children. Drop it. And if you are planning your vacation with the assistance of a destination specialist, make it clear that you have such and such a wish with regard to the children. They should be able to suggest the best hotels that can meet your needs. But even if you decide to delegate this small matter to your destination specialist, remember to hang on to it as your own responsibility so that you it delivered. Keep insisting politely.
Age of children and room occupancy
Put differently, how many persons can be in a one room while on safari? You are travelling with your 2 children on Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari. There age is 8 and 14 years. You feel these are children and because you are concerned by their security especially at night in the African bush, you want be together in the same room. If this is your wish, you will have to ensure that the entire itinerary is booked on family rooms. This will be challenging because not many hotels and lodges have ‘family room’. The most comfortable number for hotels is 2 persons in a room. They are willing to do 3 persons in a room. Most are not ready to have a 4th bed in the rooms. Apart from the size of the rooms being a hindrance to this, the quality of comfort is also compromised.
Finally, as you plan your Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari with children, I would advise that you avoid ready-made safari programs. These will look attractive, especially in terms of price, but they do not offer you the flexibility you need to ensure the children enjoy themselves. Ask your Safari outfitter or destination specialist to help you design a perfect child-friendly Kenya Safari or Tanzania Safari.
Solomon Okila is Editor African Voyages Ltd Kenya/Tanzania Travel Guide and Tourist Information and African Hotels, Lodges and Tourist Information.
Africa Travel Visa Information
Kenya
Most countries’ enfranchised members of the state are demanded to acquire a Visa, which is a bout 50 US dollars.
The Visa can be got directly on entry. However, if a Kenyan diplomatic mission exists in your country, it is recommendable to get the Visa prior to the coming. The visa can be got directly on entry.
Uganda
Visas are charged at US$30 for single entry and US$100 for multiple entry. Student visa costs $20 for single entry and $ 30 for multiple entry. Visa requirements are subject to change. It is therefore advisable to take advice from the relevant embassies before traveling.
Tanzania
Single entry visas cost $100 and are valid for six months from the date of issue. Although you can obtain an visa/extension at any Immigration Office in the country. Though we recommend that you obtain your visa before arriving in Tanzani.
Egypt
All visitors to Egypt must have valid passports. All visitors are required to have visa except citizens of Malta and Arab countries. Visa Fees are about US$ 25
Mauritius
Visitors to Mauritius require valid passports. Visas are not required for most visitors to Mauritius . However, it is always advisable to check with Mauritian Embassies and Airlines before departure.
Seychelles
All visitors to Seychelles must have valid passports. Visa is not required for most visitors however it is always advisable to check with local Seychellois Embassy and or your airline travel agency before departure.
South Africa
All visitors to South Africa require valid passports. Visa requirements vary from time to time and it is always advisable to check information regarding visa requirements with Travel Agents, South Africa High Commissions and Embassies abroad and the Department of Home Affairs. Visas are not issued at South Africa boarders.
Most countries’ enfranchised members of the state are demanded to acquire a Visa, which is a bout 50 US dollars.
The Visa can be got directly on entry. However, if a Kenyan diplomatic mission exists in your country, it is recommendable to get the Visa prior to the coming. The visa can be got directly on entry.
Uganda
Visas are charged at US$30 for single entry and US$100 for multiple entry. Student visa costs $20 for single entry and $ 30 for multiple entry. Visa requirements are subject to change. It is therefore advisable to take advice from the relevant embassies before traveling.
Tanzania
Single entry visas cost $100 and are valid for six months from the date of issue. Although you can obtain an visa/extension at any Immigration Office in the country. Though we recommend that you obtain your visa before arriving in Tanzani.
Egypt
All visitors to Egypt must have valid passports. All visitors are required to have visa except citizens of Malta and Arab countries. Visa Fees are about US$ 25
Mauritius
Visitors to Mauritius require valid passports. Visas are not required for most visitors to Mauritius . However, it is always advisable to check with Mauritian Embassies and Airlines before departure.
Seychelles
All visitors to Seychelles must have valid passports. Visa is not required for most visitors however it is always advisable to check with local Seychellois Embassy and or your airline travel agency before departure.
South Africa
All visitors to South Africa require valid passports. Visa requirements vary from time to time and it is always advisable to check information regarding visa requirements with Travel Agents, South Africa High Commissions and Embassies abroad and the Department of Home Affairs. Visas are not issued at South Africa boarders.
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