AfricanMecca Safaris, Tours & Beach

Featuring Adventurous Tanzania & Barefoot Mnemba Island – Winter 2012

AfricanMecca — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:22:04 +0000

In This Edition:

Africa News Reference
Tanzania History & Culture
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Tanzania – Reason # 3
Selous Game Reserve & Beho Beho
Mnemba Near Zanzibar & Mnemba Island Lodge
Tanzania Video Guide
African Safari Vacation
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Africa News Reference

- South Africa Recommended As Your Luxury Safari Destination By American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) in 2011 (Winter Edtion) and AfricanMecca As Your Africa TOP ASTA Operator Member Specialist Safari Company

- Orphaned Elephants No More – National Geographic

Country Guide

Tanzania – History & Culture

Tanzania has a long history of tribal habitation stretching back at least 10,000 years, to the early hunter-gatherers who lived around Olduvai Gorge. Later tribal migrations, occurring between 3,000 to 5,000 years ago, brought agricultural and pastoral knowledge to the area as competing tribal groups spread over the country in search of fertile soil and plentiful grazing for their herds. European missionaries and explorers mapped the interior of the country by following well-worn caravan routes, including Burton and Speke who in 1857 journeyed to find the source of the Nile. Traditional ways of life remained largely intact until the arrival of German colonizers in the late 19^th century…

Review complete guide to Tanzania

Tanzania Travel Guide

Top 10 Reason For Visiting Tanzania – Reason As Experienced By AfricanMecca

Reason # 3 – Active Adventure

Climb the “Natural Wonder Of The World”. Mount Kilimanjaro being easily accessible has been the dream of many athletes and adventurers who wish to experience and pride themselves of having been to the roof of Africa. The variety of routes suited for varying lifestyles makes Mount Kilimanjaro a must climb for people who just want to experience nature or view the ecosystems and terrains. For those ready to take up the challenge, opportunities exist to make it all the way to the top with the help of professional and certified guides and porters. If climbing Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t a thrill enough, AfricanMecca guests can trek up Ol Donyo Lengai Mountain of God, which remains an active volcano mountain to date. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life was filmed at Ol Donyo Lengai – Mountain of God….

Review all Top 10 Reasons for visiting Tanzania

Tanzania Safari Guide

Selous Game Reserve

Selous Game Reserve lies in a region that is too familiar to us. It is a reserve, which is just a hop, skip and jump away from our maternal grandparents homeland in Southern Tanzania. From a non-scientific perspective, the Selous Game Reserve and some of the regions surrounding it, are in the same pristine conditions they had been decades back, as we recall, with dense forests, wildlife seeping out to homesteads, impressive concentrations of wildlife in the Selous Game Reserve as well in the pockets surrounding it, and diverse vegetation types which included tall palm trees on the Rufiji River, acacia, and savannah grassland scattered all over the reserve. I remember our mother telling stories of how during the good old days when they had to go fetch water from the well in the middle of night, the bushes would produce two small watchful eyes reflected by the light from her lantern, which was quite normal to encounter such moments…. (Report Presented by AfricanMecca Tanzania Resource Team)

Review complete guide for Selous

Tanazania Safari Accommodation Guide

Beho Beho Camp In Selous
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier

Beho Beho excites and surprises. It is perched on a hillside deep inside the Selous. It enjoys outstanding panoramic views, cool breezes, and is completely isolated from the outside world. There is a small river gorge in the front while the lakes shimmer in the distance. Beho Beho is an island in 55,000 square kilometers of the world’s largest unspoilt animal kingdom. Upon you arrival at Beho Beho, you will be welcomed and shown to your banda by the camp’s friendly and warm staff. After drinks, you dine under the stars listening to the music of the African night. You awake at sunrise to admire a view as far as the eye can see, perhaps with elephants eating peacefully in front of your banda. Such is the Beho Beho experience!

Review Selous Camps information on Beho Beho Camp

Africa Beach & Coastal Guide

Mnemba Island Near Zanzibar – Tanzania

Mnemba Island lies 15 minutes by boat from the North east coast of Zanzibar, protected by a lagoon with over 10 miles of reefs rich in colorful fish and corals. This private island resort offers “barefoot luxury” in ten self-contained cottages, positioned discretely amid the lush tropical vegetation. This is where Bill Gates comes to unwind and savor Mother Nature’s delights, on the heart-shaped splash of sand in the blue depths of the Indian Ocean. Mnemba is an Arabic word for octopus.

Recognition: Conde Nast Traveller chose Mnemba Island as one of the three most romantic ocean destinations in the world.

Review complete guide to Mnemba

Africa Beach & Coastal Accommodation Guide

Mnemba Island Lodge Near Zanzibar – Tanzania
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on Beach & City Hotel Tier Rating

Mnemba Island Lodge features just ten ensuite banda cottages, bordered on three sides by tropical beach forest and overlooking the beach and coral reef. Each exquisite banda has been hand-woven and thatched from tree branches and traditional Zanzibar palm matting. The materials were chosen to allow the cooling sea breezes to move through the bungalow and assisted by overhead fans, the cottages remain cool all day. From each room, a palm-covered walkway leads to an en suite turquoise bathroom. The shower water comes from the island’s well or boiled rainwater. Each banda also has a spacious outdoor verandah. As is befitting an earthly paradise, Mnemba has near-perfect weather. The architecture of the lodge reflects this blissful serenity. You can wander through your lattice-wood doors across the wraparound verandah and stretch out on the beach on daybeds of wood and leather weave with soft white cushions. Zanzibar is famous for producing intricate and detailed woodcarvings and some of the island’s most skilled artisans have created the scrolled headboards adorning the beds

Review Zanzibar Hotels information on Mnemba Island Lodge

Tanzania & Zanzibar Video Guide

Recommended African Safari Tour Program

Best Of Africa Safari & Tour II – 16 Days

AfricanMecca’s Best Of Africa Safari & Tour selects Africa’s 8 key destinations with inclusion of 3 separate countries – Tanzania, South Africa and Zambia i.e. visiting Kruger National Park (Timbavati), Cape Town, Johannesburg, Victoria Falls (Livingstone, Zambia), Zanzibar Island, Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater & Conservation Area, Serengeti National Park by superbly experiencing 3 different and complementing Africa country ecosystems in one awesome program. Countries visited are: South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania Including Zanzibar.

The Best Of Africa Safari & Tour is offered in 3 Safari Tiers offering similar nature and ecological experiences. Learn more about AfricanMecca Safari Tier Ratings

Review Best Of Africa Safari & Tour II – 16 Days – Itinerary & Prices

Review other Africa safari programs.

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Wow Raza! What a wonderful adventure in Kenya & Tanzania! We had such a great experience in your country, and learned so much about the way of life in Africa. The contrasts are hard to imagine, in an hour we see dry parched land, and then suddenly there is coffee, tea, bananas, greenhouses with flowers, and rice paddies, very hard to believe! The game drives were exceptional, and the animals posed perfectly. Our drivers always joked that they put the animals there just for us!

The driver/guides made our trip a success. We were always met outside the airport with a smile and “Karibu”.

Rajab in Nairobi, was a wonderful man, who made sure that we saw everything we could when we were with him. I think we were always first on scene when an animal was spotted, and he obviously loved his job! Bernard, from Tanzania, asked us what we had seen in Kenya. When we told him everything but the leopard, he said, “OK, we will watch the animals habits here.” And we did. A baboon family for an hour, elephants playing after a bath, and giraffes interacting, and then the leopard with his kill in a tree. Both guides made sure our experience in their countries was enjoyable and complete.

Raza organized every detail, and things were just as he said they would be, there were no last minute problems or changes. It was a pleasure to work with Raza, and we felt completely confident as we went through the many stages in our planning. We did not have extensive knowledge about the area or the logistics, and so after communicating with Raza, we happily trusted his recommendations. Now that we are home, we know that we made the right decision to work with AfricanMecca Safaris on this once in a lifetime trip.

Every day brought new sights and sounds. When we thought we had seen the very best, a pride of lions, a cheetah nursing her babies, the next day we would see elephants playing as they relaxed in the shade, or the leopard in the tree with it’s kill, a reed buck. I suppose the story we will always tell first is of the monkey that jumped in our van through the roof and stole our lunch as he left! Our driver/guides were excellent companions, and we learned much about the people and life in Kenya & Tanzania.

Our thanks to you Raza for organizing and advising us on our trip. Your suggestions made our trip planning easy, and we felt confident the whole time that you were looking after the details!

Asante sana!

Amanda & John Cornell, Alberta Canada

Tagged: Africa, africa holidays, Africa Safari, Africa safaris, africa vacations, African Safari, african safaris, africanmecca, Beho Beho, mnemba, mnemba island lodge, tanzania, tanzania holidays, tanzania hotel, tanzania hotels, Tanzania safari, Tanzania safaris, tanzania tours, tanzania vacations, Zanzibar, zanzibar hotels

Featuring Spectacular Kafue Safari in Zambia & Upbeat Durban Beach In South Africa – Summer 2011

AfricanMecca — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 14:34:31 +0000

In This Edition:

Africa News Reference
Zambia History & Culture
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Zambia – Reason # 6
Kafue National Park & Shumba Camp
Durban In South Africa & Fairmont Zimbali
Zambia Video Guide
African Safari Vacation
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Africa News Reference

- Hold the Champagne: Highway to Split Serengeti After All? – National Geographic

- Michelle Obama Africa Visit: First Lady Takes Family On Safari

- Agony and Ivory Experienced By Conservationists Cyril Christo & Marie Wilkinson – Reported By Vanity Fair – Alex Shoumatoff
AfricanMecca Safaris provided the logistical planning and ground arrangements services to aid Cyril Christo & Marie Wilkinson’s elephant & ivory research work in Tsavo East & Amboseli National Park in Kenya in 2011. Review above investigative report by Vanity Fair. You can watch a preview of Cyril Christo & Marie Wilkinson’s Last Stand Of The African Elephant On YouTube.

Country Guide

Zambia – History & Culture

The Great Rift Valley, which cleaves the earth from the Lower Zambezi River in Southern Zambia to the headwaters of the Nile in Egypt, is now known to be one of the cradles of the human race, and Zambia’s present population lives on lands that have been inhabited by our forebears for almost uncountable eons. Archaeologists have established that in the northern African Rift Valley, the civilizing process got underway at least 3 million years ago, and crude stone implements, similar to some of that age found in Kenya, have also been found beside the Zambezi river……

Review complete guide to Zambia

Zambia Travel Guide

Top 10 Reason For Visiting Zambia – Reason As Experienced By AfricanMecca

Reason # 6 – Livingstone & Zambia’s Historical Experience

Livingstone & Zambia’s Historical Experience: Zambia is immersed in a very rich colonial history. Ever heard of the “Rhodes Scholar” program or oxford university’s “Rhodes Scholarship” or the terminology “Cape to Cairo” and a railway that spans the gorges between the Victoria Falls. This can be attributed to Cecil Rhodes, who amassed enormous amounts of wealth in Rhodesia. Experience the only western named town in Zambia preserved in honor of Dr. David Livingstone, who strove to eliminate slavery. Dr. David Livingstone was based in Zambia (northern Rhodesia). He died in Zambia and his heart was buried in Zambia, before his body carried by his two faithful Rhodesian servants, Sussi & Chuma, to Zanzibar via Bagamoyo for onward transportation to Westminster Abbey in England. Consider adding on an experience to Shiwa Ng’andu, created as a remote piece of England in the heart of Africa, a reminder to the visiting guests of bygone era…

Review all Top 10 Reasons for visiting Zambia

Zambia Safari Guide

Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Zambia. Kafue gained national park status in 1950 and covers a total of 22400 square kilometers. Despite the Park’s proximity to both Lusaka and the Copperbelt, it has remained underdeveloped until the most recent years. Despite the depravations of poaching and lack of management, Kafue National Park is still a raw and diverse slice of African wilderness with excellent game viewing, birdwatching and fishing opportunities From the astounding Busanga Plains in the North-western of Kafue National Park to the tree-choked wilderness and the lush dambos of the south, fed by the emerald green Lunga, Lufupa and Kafue River, the park sustains huge herds of a great diversity of wildlife. From the thousands of red lechwe on the plains, the ubiquitous puku, the stately sable and roan antelopes in the woodland to the diminutive oribi and duiker. The solid-rumped defassa waterbuck, herds of tsessebe, hartebeest, zebra and buffalo make for a full menu of antelope. Large prides of lion, solitary leopards and cheetahs are the prime predators. There is a host of smaller carnivores from the side-striped jackal, civet, genet and various mongoose….

Review complete guide for Kafue

Zambia Safari Accommodation Guide

Shumba Camp In Kafue
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier

Shumba Camp is located in the center of the Busanga Plains in Kafue, home to hundreds of red lechwe, ubiquitous puku, stately roan and the diminutive oribi. Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, herds of wildebeest, zebra and buffalo make for a full set of antelope all of which move onto the Plains as the dry season progresses. This wealth of game is a big attraction for predators, including wild dog, cheetah and prides of lion. Shumba Camp is perfectly situated to take advantage of the plains game and predator concentrations of the Busanga Plains, being situated as it is within close proximity to permanent water and having easy access to a mix of seasonal and permanent floodplains. Shumba is named after a favorite species in the area – prides of lion sometimes up to 20 strong! Viewing of species like puku, lechwe and hippo is possible for much of the day from the comfort of your tent or the main deck, while the camp’s fig trees ensure both shade and constant bird activity in the canopy above.

Review Kafue Camps information on Shumba Camp

Africa Beach & Coastal Guide

Durban In South Africa

Durban is South Africa’s most popular domestic holiday city and it’s easy to see why. It has miles of soft, sandy swimming beaches, great surfing and warm weather all year round. There’s everything from B&Bs to world-class hotels, and you’ll never run out of fun things to do. Head to the ocean for a fishing charter or chill out on a sunset sundowner cruise. Take in the marine life at Ushaka Marine World and burn up some energy at Water World. Durban is green all year round, thanks to its subtropical weather. To see the city and coastline at its best, head to La Lucia Ridge, preferably early on a clear morning. Look south to view the beach arcing around Durban’s bay. See a different angle of the same view by looking north from atop the Bluff at the harbor entrance…..

Review complete guide to Durban

Africa Beach & Coastal Accommodation Guide

Fairmont Zimbali In Durban – South Africa
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on Beach & City Hotel Tier Rating

On KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast, under an abundant forest canopy, you will find Zimbali – Zulu for “valley of flowers.” A sanctuary unlike any other in South Africa, this charming and unspoiled region is a nature lover’s wonderland. Dappled shadows from the lush vegetation and cool breezes from the Indian Ocean leave their mark on your soul. Endless beaches and clear skies invite you to relax and dream. Within this subtropical paradise, set within the serene confines of a coastal forest reserve, you will find the highest expression of exclusive hospitality: Fairmont Zimbali Lodge.

Review Durban Hotels information on Fairmont Zimbali

Zambia Video Guide

Recommended African Safari Tour Program

Best Of Zambia Safari – 11 Days

The Best Of Zambia Safari sets out to discover Lower Zambezi National Park, South Luangwa National Park, Victoria Falls & Kafue National Park – Zambia’s 4 best (unique and diverse) eco-systems where wildlife viewing is unique to each park, activities are life changing experiences as well as setting foot on famed locations in Zambia leading to a very memorable experience. Lower Zambezi National Park is beautiful displaying its tall leadwoods, ebonies, acacias and figs stand on carpets of rich grassland. Wildlife congregates near the river which can be viewed on the specialty canoeing safaris. The South Luangwa National Park is one of Africa’s biggest parks with territorial species of wildlife located in distinct/resident areas of the park. The visit to the park enables AfricanMecca clients to explore the beauty of the wilderness, wildlife, ecology, its specialty walking safari, unmatched day and night game viewing as well as the wilderness camp experience. South Luangwa wildlife include huge herds of elephant and buffalo. Of particular interest are the two subspecies unique to the Luangwa Valley: the beautiful thornicroft giraffe (with its dark patterned skin) and Cookson’s wildebeest. The valley’s main predators are lion, leopard and spotted hyena. During the day, lion seldom hide and are often seen, where as leopards hunt by night. Visit the Kafue National Park, whose experiences are unmatched and the wildlife interaction are not scripted nor predictable. The wow! moment is rather unexpected and within a matter of a few second the whole experience unravels – whether it is the lechwe being stalked by the cheetah, the African hunting dogs appearance on the river banks or the real-time kill of a young impala by a leopard – Kafue is a genuinely wild experience. Add on an an experience of viewing the stunning Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s (and world) wonders from an eye level or from above – either in a microlight or helicopter – it can’t get any better than that! The recommendations that AfricanMecca makes are based on our personal inspection and visit/stay to each and every location and accommodation. Some accommodations are with-in walking distance from the falls and some require driving, and our recommendations clearly outline this so our clients can make more informed decisions based on preference. The result when combined with AfricanMecca’s Safari Tier™ Ratings reveals the recommendations below, helping to accurately match the destination experience with our clients expectations

The Best Of Zambia Safari is offered in 3 Safari Tiers offering similar nature and ecological experiences. Learn more about AfricanMecca Safari Tier™ Ratings

Review Best Of Zambia Safari itinerary & prices

Review other Africa safari programs.

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Hi Raza,

I tip my hat to AfricanMecca! The entire trip went off without the slightest hitch. We never had to wonder where to go next, there was always someone there to lead the way. It was a wonderful and relaxing way to travel. Not a worry to be had. At each lodge we enjoyed interacting with the management as well as the staff. In particular, the staff at Kasaka and Busanga really made us feel at home. The food was great everywhere. In particular, Lemon, the chef at Busanga gave us a tour of the kitchen and entertained us each evening with an enthusiastic description of the evening’s menu in the local language. His enthusiasm and presentation made each dinner a hit. He is quite a character and I mean that in the best of ways.

The guides were knowledgeable and attentive at each lodge and our experiences in the field were memorable. We enjoyed having the opportunity to walk in the bush and did so at Kasaka, Kafunta and Kaingo. No two walks were the same and we learned so much. At Busanga Bush Camp we were the only guests besides a spitting cobra which I found while bird watching during the afternoon siesta time. We gave each other plenty of room;-)) It was so quiet out on the Busanga Plains and the night sky was wonderful. It’s been a long time since I have had the chance to see the Milky Way in all of its glory.

We had five individual leopard sightings (two during the day) and 33 individual lions some seen multiple times and some great pics were made. There were many animal sightings but one of my favorites was on a night drive when we watched an interaction between a leopard and an African porcupine. It was very interesting. Our stay in Livingston was very nice and I’m glad that we did that at the end of the trip. The falls were impressive and we were able to do a lot of shopping at the local craft markets. I’m sure we made some of the locals very happy that day.

Going into the trip I was concerned about some of what I had read regarding tsetse flies. My luck is still holding out on those pesky little guys. While out on one of the walks I picked up a bite on the hand. Other than that, I saw only a few as we drove through the Mopane woodlands on the way into Kafunta. We were in an enclosed vehicle for that transfer so we just smiled as they buzzed around the outside. In Kafue they don’t seem to make it out onto the plains so we were safe. Ha, the only thing that got us on the plains was a wayward nightjar that was confused by the spotlight and it flew in from the front of the vehicle and crashed into Melissa’s chest. She was quite surprised to say the least but no harm came to her. I hope that the nightajar is okay too. Mosquitoes were also almost non-existent. I saw maybe six tops.

All in all, we are happy that we chose to visit Zambia. And we are happy that we chose to do business with AfricanMecca. Thanks for all of your help in setting up the trip and answering all of our questions. Concerning the Yellow Fever vaccination, we were never questioned on arrival in South Africa, so not sure what the story is on that.

Thanks again,

Denis and Melissa Kania
United States

Tagged: Africa, africa holidays, Africa Safari, africa vacations, African Safari, african safaris, africanmecca, durban, durban hotels, kafue safari, south africa, south africa hotels, south africa safari, south africa tour, Zambia, zambia hotels, Zambia Safari, zamia tour

Featuring Historical Kenya Safari & Cultural Experiences & Vacations – Spring 2011

AfricanMecca — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:56:13 +0000

AfricanMecca Newsletter – Spring 2011 – Update from Americas, European and Africa Offices

In This Edition:

Africa News Reference
Kenya – Flora & Fauna
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Kenya – Reason # 7
Lewa Conservancy & Wilderness Trails
The Historic Mombasa Island & Celebrity Alfajiri Villas
Kenya Video Guide
African Safari Vacation
Africa Beach Holiday Programs From London Heathrow
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
Newsletter Notes

Africa News Reference

AfricanMecca Safaris Actively Joins The Social Media Revolution At Facebook, Twitter & Google Android Market Apps
1. You can now “Fan, Like or Follow” AfricanMecca Safaris on Facebook and Twitter. We will communicate with you on the following items:

Safaris, tours and beach contests to win. The latest was a safari contest to win a 15 days safari to Zambia offered by Zambia Tourist Board. This contest ended a few weeks back and was posted on our Facebook and Twitter pages. We will inform you of more contests to win in the future.
Complimentary upgrades and giveaways for your trip to Africa e.g. book 3 nights, and get the 4th night free to 25% discount on long term stays – selected accommodation – terms and conditions apply etc. Contact us for details as we have some specials running in 2011.
Tips and travel ideas for best accommodations and destinations to stay in Africa.
Learn about Africa, its people, wildlife, ecosystem, conservation etc..

Click the below links for Facebook to “Like Us” and Twitter to “Follow Us”. Thank you! You will first need to be logged into your respective social media accounts.

2. Do you own an Android smart phone or tablet? You can now download free Africa Travel Guide apps on your Android phone or tablet e.g. HTC, Google Nexus, Samsung, Motorola, Archos Tablet etc.. Please provide your feedback on these free apps so we can improve them overtime. Details on the free Africa Travel & Safari Guide Android Market Apps at http://market.android.com/developer?pub=AfricanMecca+Safaris
Apple IPhone/IPad Africa Travel Guide Apps To Follow!
3. We would like to introduce you to Susan Runholt, a children’s mystery novel author who recently launched (03 March 11) another intriguing novel for children with a plot set in Kenya, and its wildlife, culture and national parks – perfect read for families with young teens. Susan has authored Kari + Lucas Mysteries: The Mystery of the Third Lucretia, Rescuing Seneca Crane, and the newly released, The Adventure at Simba Hill (A Kari and Lucas Mystery). Look for it at your local bookstores or on Amazon. Susan Runholt website at http://www.susanrunholt.com

Raza Visram – Safari & Tour Planning for AfricanMecca Safaris contributed to Susan’s new book because of his immense knowledge of Kenya’s wildlife, culture and safari destination. Susan Runholt devoted part of the acknowledgment section in her new book to Raza Visram and to AfricanMecca Safaris. Susan stated the following in her recent thank you email: “The tremendous help Raza from AfricanMecca Safaris gave me in so many aspects of the novel as it reads today. I really can’t thank you enough. I tried to make the book a tribute to Kenya and to the people and landscape that seem to have a permanent effect on everyone who visits.”

Country Guide
Kenya – Flora & Fauna
The flora in Kenya is mainly influenced by variation in climactic conditions and of altitude on Kenyan terrain. The water from rain, rivers, streams and lakes supports the flora. Mount Kenya for example has a wide range of flora from 6-meter giant tree groundsel senecio, helichrysum, and lobelia to small and giant heathers ericas and phillipias that grow to about 10 meters. Kenya’s famous thorn tree Acacia has over 40 species, which is resistant to drought and is usually used as a building material. The Masai Mara is famous for its savannah grassland and the Acacias. The Kenyan forests like Kakamega, Aberdares, Mount Kenya and Arabuko Sokoke has exemplary display of its flora. They are over 11,000 plant species in East Africa…..
Review complete guide to Kenya

Kenya Travel Guide
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Kenya – Reason # 7 As Experienced By AfricanMecca
Reason # 7 – Historical Experience
Kenya is a country that is as old as the early exploration of the world by Romans: from 45 A.D, Hippalus, a Roman sailor, was pushed to the East African coast by the monsoon winds, to present day. Kenya holds a historical treasure for all to learn and enjoy. The country contains old extant forts standing strong, ruins that were deserted by residents without any explanation, immigration by European settlers who farmed and lived in the highlands of Kenya like Karen Blixen, discoveries like the Thompson Waterfalls at Nyahururu by Joseph Thompson in 1859, immigration of people from India, Arabia, China as explorers and traders. A meeting with the Samburu people in Northern Kenya will enable you to learn about their Israelite experience and Jewish heritage: how their families trickled down from the Mesopotamia region thousands of years ago. Kenya and East Africa as a region are also internationally credited to hold the original hominid excavations of prehistoric humans underscoring the theory of our existence to have originated from the area.

So if your personality welcomes a true historical learning experience with a mix of culture and lifestyle, fame and fortune, success and glory then a visit to Kenya will broaden your knowledge in a globally diverse world making you stand out from the rest of your peers!
Review all Top 10 Reasons for visiting Kenya

Kenya Safari Guide
Lewa Conservancy (Lewa Downs)
Lewa Conservation’s History To Better The Future Ian Craig took over the running of his parents’ cattle ranch, Lewa Downs, in 1977. The ranch covers some 40,000 acres of thorn-bush plains on the northern slopes of Mount Kenya. When the mountain’s craggy heights aren’t hidden by cloud, their snow-capped peaks dominate the view to the north. Wildlife used to roam freely on the ranch, but as poaching escalated in the seventies their numbers were threatened especially those of the rhino.

In 1983 Anna Merz, an English woman living in Kenya, approached Ian with the proposal that she build and finance a rhino sanctuary on the western side of the ranch. The Craig family was enthusiastic. They had had no rhino at Lewa Downs for 10 years. None had ever been killed while on the ranch, but as soon as they left its safety, poachers murdered them. The Craigs gave Anna 5,000 acres and later, another 5,000. Her work was the catalyst for what would become the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. However, it was the sickening sight of an elephant massacre in 1988 that caused Ian to realize that wildlife had no future unless local communities participated in its protection. Land erosion, poaching and over-grazing were destroying the land, but Ian believed that with the right action and cooperation this could be reversed. His ambition was to take down the fences between neighboring ranches and open up the migratory routes between Mount Kenya and the Mathews Mountains in the north. First though, he had to convince local communities to stop seeing animals as competition for food and instead see them as a source of income…..
Review complete guide for Lewa

Kenya Safari Accommodation Guide
Wilderness Trails In Lewa
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier
Lewa Downs is a 40,000-acre ranch, home to the Craig Family since 1924; it is also home to a diverse array of wildlife in some of Kenya’s most spectacular scenery. The snowcapped peaks of Mount Kenya dominate the views to the south, where the southern boundary rises to an altitude of some 6,500 ft above sea level. To the north, the terrain drops away rapidly with breathtaking views of Samburu, Ololokwe and the Matthew’s Range beyond. The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy itself supports a myriad of plains game species, all perfectly adapted for the semi-desert environment. The thinly striped and endangered Grevy’s Zebra and the chocolate brown Reticulated Giraffe are common. The lance-like horned Beisa Oryx and the rare Greater Kudu are seasonal visitors. Gunther’s Dikdik, with its huge nasal swellings, the giraffe-necked Gerenuk and the beautiful blue-legged Somali Ostrich are resident all year. The swamp has become a sanctuary in itself for the fascinating semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope and its primary predator, the Leopard. Birdlife is equally rich with numerous species of Bustards, Plovers, Coursers and birds of prey. At night, leopard are frequently encountered along with bush babies, aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, caracal and various mongooses, genets & civets – a few days at Lewa Downs is a unique combination of hospitality, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife
Review information on Wilderness Trails

Kenya Beach & Coastal Guide

Mombasa
Mombasa is Kenya’s second largest city and its the only sizeable island port. It has a recorded history stretching back nearly 2000 years, and was mentioned in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, a pilot’s guide to the Indian Ocean written by one Diogenes, a Greek living in Egypt, around the end of the first century A.D. Mombasa was again mentioned by Ptolemy in the second century but then remained in relative obscurity, despite the development of a series of city states by migrant Arabs, until the adventurers, traders and conquerors visited the town beginning with Vasco Da Gama in 1498. The colonization of the coast by the Portuguese was a hit and miss affair with the invaders sometimes showing interest and sometimes the opposite. But it was also an era of strife between the Catholic Portuguese and the Muslim Arabs. The Arabs finally extinguished Portuguese hegemony with the capture of Fort Jesus in 1699 just over a hundred years after it was built. The next hundred years was a miserable record of petty wars between the minor sultans and of Omani Arabs based in Muscat. Trade, except in slave came to a halt until an army was sent, in 1822, by the Sultan of Oman to crush the warring states and re-establish commercial activity. Some form of Arab government existed in what became known as the coastal strip until the region was declared a British sphere of influence following the treaty of Berlin in 1885. The town of Mombasa is built on a coral island. Less than a century ago, the builders of what was then called the Uganda railway attached the island to the mainland by a causeway. To the north a toll bridge spans Tudor Creek, with views of the old harbor, linking the town with the north coast beach resorts. On the south side a frequent car and passenger ferry service plies across Kilindini Creek, close to the entrance to the modern port area with its multitude of wharfs and deep water berths, carrying tourists to the splendid beaches of the south coast. Mombasa town itself is a mystical mixture of ancient and modern with a cosmopolitan population blending Africa, Arabia, Asia and Europe. The people who live in this old but vibrant gateway to Kenya and Africa now number almost 600,000. Fringing the dhow harbor is the old town, a maze of narrow streets and pedestrian lanes with quaint shuttered houses and open fronted shops; the smell of spices is always present. Dominating the entrance to the dhow harbor is Fort Jesus, which is open to visitors and which houses an interesting museum displaying antiquities from the length of the Kenya coast. Also on display are finds from the Portuguese warship the Santa Antonio D’Atanm which sank near the fort in 1697 while attempting to raise the Arab siege….
Review complete guide to Mombasa

Kenya Beach & Coastal Accommodation Guide

Alfajiri Villas in Mombasa
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on Beach & City Hotel Tier Rating
Celebrity guests Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have visited Mombasa and have stayed at Alfajiri Villas.
Considered by many as one of the finest private houses on the Kenyan Coast, Alfajiri overlooks the Indian Ocean and it’s elevated position ensures privacy and stunning views. Alfajiri is a rare breed of paradise you can genuinely call your own. Alfajiri only caters to family groups and exclusive reservation for each villa, the pace and activities at Alfajiri are entirely up to the visiting guests. Detail For Families: The owner of Alfajiri Villas has two young girls and the house has been designed with children in mind. Two nannies, who both speak English, are available 24 hours a day. Plenty of games are available as well as a TV and video if needed. Alfajiri is the perfect place for families with small children that are looking for a relaxing time and to have their children well looked after, all in absolute privacy.
Review complete information on Alfajiri Villas

Kenya Video Guide

Recommended African Safari Tour Program
Kenya, Land of Contrasts Safari I – 8 Days
Kenya, Land of Contrasts Safari combines a comparative and harmonious safari experience by displaying the distinct yet interlocking offerings of Kenya’s ecosystem within one country divided by the Equator. See the display of wildlife and nature distinctly different in Northern Kenya, specifically in and around Laikipia, Samburu and Shaba National Reserve, versus those found in Masai Mara. Enjoy breathtaking experiences by staying in the Great Rift Valley. Fresh water and soda ash lakes such as Lake Naivasha and Nakuru are home to hippos, and thousands of flamingoes and migratory birds that converge during the course of the year creating superb and colorful photographic moments.The Kenya, Land of Contrasts Safari is offered in 3 Safari Tiers offering similar nature and ecological experiences. Learn more about AfricanMecca Safari Tier™ Ratings

Review Kenya, Land of Contrasts Safari itinerary & prices

Review other Africa & Kenya safari programs.

Recommended Beach Programs To Mombasa From London Heathrow – 01 May 2011 Departures

Beach Programs Inclusions: Flights, transfers, accommodation and meals.

AfricanMecca Tier 2 Experience
The Cove Retreat
Price: GBP 1804 For 14 Nights

AfricanMecca Tier 3 Experience
Voyager Beach Resort
Price: GBP 1089 For 14 Nights

AfricanMecca Tier 4 Experience
Travellers Beach Club and Hotel
Price: GBP 964 For 14 Nights

Mombasa Holidays departures also available from 15 April 2011. The above programs can be tailor-made for our guests from North America and other worldwide regions.

Bush & Beach Safari – Combine with Mombasa Beach Holidays. Click here for prices and safari programs from Mombasa

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
To the marvelous staff at AfricanMecca I send our thanks and well wishes. Your efforts on our behalf were more than simply successful. We had a marvelous ten days that I know were not particularly easy for you to effect, given the nature of our request and the timelines we needed to work within. You had come recommended to us by my son, who had traveled through you a number of years ago, and we were most grateful for his suggestion. We visited three quite different reserves: Samburu (Samburu Ashil Camp), Amboseli (Satao Elerai Camp) and Masai Mara (Royal Mara Safari Lodge). All were wonderful and each more impressive than the last. The accommodations were beyond comfortable and we appreciated the fact that each camp had such a unique identity. The service was most attentive and the guides were well educated as such and able to provide us with knowledgeable answers to our questions. Once they understood any special interests they went out of their way to try to make that a part of our experience. Just as each camp was different, so was each guide, and they willingly shared their experiences and their expertise. Within the limits of what I suppose was appropriate they shared with us their concerns for their country and the particular areas where we traveled.

Flying from camp to camp was a bit of an experience, but as soon as we realized how capable the pilots were we relaxed and looked forward to our next “airport.”
In addition to seeing more wildlife than we ever imagined possible, we were able to visit two villages and a weekly market, which enriched our appreciation of the country and its people.

In such an experience as this there is always the dichotomy between seeing these marvelous creatures and somehow feeling that maybe by doing so we contribute to their demise. On the other hand, without the tourists and the camps (and ours were particularly sensitive to the “proper” importance of the animals and the need to include local people as a vital part of the staff) I’m not sure either the animals or the residents would fare as well, at least for the time being. We were impressed by the sense of responsibility the guides and the camp managers had not only toward the animals, but also toward improving the lives of the villagers, all the while realizing the slowness of the increments in which improvement was possible. It was an eye-opening experience in so many ways and we are so grateful that we were able to participate in the adventure.

Dr Nancy J. Arnfield – United States

Tagged: Africa, africa holidays, Africa Safari, africa vacations, African Safari, african safaris, africanmecca, Kenya, kenya holidays, Kenya Safari, kenya safaris, kenya vacations, lewa, masai mara, mombasa, mombasa hotels

Featuring Maasai Cultural Graduation & South Africa’s Cape Town & Madikwe Safari Experiences – Winter 2010

AfricanMecca — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 17:46:28 +0000

Seasons Greetings, Merry Christmas & Happy/Prosperous New Year From The AfricanMecca Team!

AfricanMecca Newsletter – Winter 2010 – Update from Americas, European and Africa Offices

In This Edition:

Africa News Reference
South Africa – History & Culture
Top 10 Reason For Visiting South Africa – Reason # 2
Madikwe Game Reserve & Madikwe Hills Game Lodge
Cape Town & Tintswalo Atlantic
South Africa Video Guide
African Safari Program Proposal
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
Newsletter Notes

Africa News Reference

1. Masai warriors graduate (BBC Audio Slideshow)

2. British Royal proposal made in Kenya at remote Rutundu (CNN)

3. Zambia’s got game

Country Guide

South Africa – History & Culture

The earliest representatives of South Africa’s diversity – at least the earliest history can name – were the San and Khoekhoe peoples (otherwise known individually as the Bushmen and Hottentots or Khoikhoi; collectively called the Khoisan). Both were resident in the southern tip of the continent for thousands of years before its written history began with the arrival of European seafarers. And before that, modern human beings had lived here for more than 100 000 years – indeed, the country is an archaeological treasure chest….

Click here for a complete guide to South Africa

South Africa Travel Guide

Top 10 Reason For Visiting South Africa – Reason # 2 As Experienced By AfricanMecca

Reason # 2 - Outdoors and Adventure Destination

Outdoors Activities and Active Adventure Experience From Shark Cage Diving To Trekking Up Table Mountain or Cycling In The Winelands During Your South Africa Vacations & Holidays

Click here to review all Top 10 Reasons For Visiting South Africa

South Africa Safari Guide

Madikwe Game Reserve

The Madikwe Game Reserve, situated against the Botswana border, 90 km north of Zeerust, just 4-5 hours’ drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria, is now one of South Africa’s prime safari destinations. Madikwe is a Big Five game reserve covering some 75,000 hectare. Madikwe is testimony to a truly enlightened conservation plan which has created this exceptional wildlife reservation for the preservation of a unique wilderness area of Kalahari thornveld in one of the more remote regions of South Africa. Madikwe is host to almost every game species including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. About 250 species of birds have been recorded at Madikwe, which is a transition zone between the Kalahari thornveld and bushveld ecological regions of Southern Africa.

Click here for complete guide to Madikwe Game Reserve

South Africa Safari Accommodation Guide

Madikwe Hills In Madikwe Game Reserve
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier

Traversing over 75 000 hectares, Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is situated on a hill, in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Ingeniously set amongst boulders and age-old Tamboti trees, the lodge offers visitors the utmost in luxury and hospitality, where you will find yourself enchanted by a world of intrigue and majestic beauty. Madikwe Hills consists of a Main Lodge with ten suites, and a private camp, Little Madikwe Hills, accommodating twenty-four guests in total. At the Main Lodge, ten ultra-luxurious glass-fronted suites complete with their own deck and private plunge pools offer absolute privacy and majestic views. The unusual, yet subtle “Afrochic” decor integrates natural elements with colours highlighting Africa’s ambience, with each suite boasting soft sofas, voluptuous mosquito netting and cotton picot linen.

Click here for complete information on Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

Africa Beach & Coastal Guide

Cape Town

Cape Town attractions have made it a famed destination for many including world travelers, musicians, and artists. Take a trip to on the Cape Winelands and taste South Africa’s homegrown wines; see the world from your vantage point on the top of famed Table Mountain; dine like a king at any of South Africa’s fantastic restaurants and celebrate the great outdoors even during the winter months. For some great retail therapy why not head to the V&A Waterfront. It’s a super spot shopping and eating, and its attractions include the Two Oceans Aquarium, a craft market and an amphitheatre where local artists perform. From here you can take a harbour cruise or strike out for Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent many years in imprisonment. The treacherous Cape Point promontory a witness to many a shipwreck enhances Cape Town’s reputation for dramatic scenery. It’s a trip well worth making, the last part up to a lighthouse completed by funicular.

Click here for complete complete guide to Cape Town

Africa Beach & Coastal Accommodation Guide

Tintswalo Atlantic in Cape Town
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on Beach & City Hotel Tier Rating

Stylish yet understated, Tintswalo Atlantic offers home-away-from-home comforts, discreet service and mouthwatering culinary creations in the most beautiful setting. Nestled unobtrusively between the boulders of the Atlantic Ocean’s water’s edge and the slopes of the Cape Mountain Fynbos Reserve, known worldwide for its extraordinary rich and diverse fauna and flora – no trees were removed and not so much as a branch was cut from the Milkwood trees that grace the shoreline – Tintswalo Atlantic offers absolute seclusion and relaxation, with the ocean literally a stone’s throw away from the pebbled beach! Tintswalo Atlantic is the perfect destination for visitors wanting to relax right beside the ocean – either starting their holiday at the lodge or to recuperate after an exciting few days on safari.

Click here for complete details on Tintswalo Atlantic

South Africa Video Guide

1. South Africa Experiences – It’s Possible (Part 1) – Click Here To Watch Video

2. South Africa Experiences – It’s Possible (Part 2) – Click Here To Watch Video

3. Table Mountain – Cape Town – Click Here To Watch Video

Recommended African Safari Tour Program

Best Of South Africa Safari & Tour – 8 Days

AfricanMecca’s Best Of South Africa Safari & Tour selects South Africa’s 3 key destinations – Kruger National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve & Cape Town by superbly delivers the best of the country in one awesome program.

After your safari in Kruger, you will visit Madikwe Game Reserve which is located against the Botswana border offering its stand at the very threshold of Africa’s wilderness. This is a near-perfect ecological environment where its flora and fauna forms an essential part of an intricate web of survival. Here, life and death are complementary for the continued existence of its natural system where humankind is reminded that its very existence through the ages has been rooted in such an intricate design. Madikwe is a Big Five game reserve covering some 75,000 hectare and a testimony to a truly enlightened conservation plan which has created this exceptional wildlife reservation for the preservation of a unique wilderness area of Kalahari thornveld in one of the more remote regions of South Africa. Madikwe is host to almost every game species including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. About 250 species of birds have been recorded at Madikwe, which is a transition zone between the Kalahari thornveld and bushveld ecological regions of Southern Africa.

Thereafter, your program is combined with a visit to Cape Town which many attractions have made it a famed destination for many Hollywood movies and global travelers alike. Guests can take a trip to the Cape Winelands and taste South Africa’s homegrown wines; see the world from your vantage point on the top of famed Table Mountain; dine like a king at any of South Africa’s fantastic restaurants and celebrate the great outdoors even during the winter months. You can visit the famed V&A Waterfront – a super spot shopping and eating, and its attractions include the Two Oceans Aquarium, a craft market and an amphitheatre where local artists perform. Additionally, AfricanMecca guests can also take a harbor cruise or strike out for Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent many years in imprisonment. The treacherous Cape Point promontory a witness to many a shipwreck enhances Cape Town’s reputation for dramatic scenery. It’s a trip well worth making, the last part up to a lighthouse completed by funicular. Cape Town is an ideal vacation spot for those seeking adventure, relaxation and entertainment. Click here for Best Of South Africa Safari & Tour itinerary

Click here to review other Africa & South Africa recommended safari programs.

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Your attention to detail and excellent recommendations exceeded our expectations. It was a terrific trip one we will always remember. While we anticipated a one time visit to Africa – we are already anticipating doing it all over again…While we anticipated a one time visit to Africa – we are already anticipating doing it all over again… your people on the ground met us and took care of details making this a memorable – worry free vacation. thank you for everything.

Bow Bowman
United States

Tagged: africa safari. africa safaris, africa vacations, cape town, kenya maasai, madikwe, madikwe hills, south africa, tintswalo atlantic

AfricanMecca Safaris Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2010 – Kruger & Knysna Coastal Experiences

AfricanMecca — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 20:23:04 +0000

AfricanMecca Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2010 – Update from Americas, European and Africa Offices

In This Edition:

Africa News Reference
South Africa – Location & Geography
Top 10 Reason For Visiting South Africa – Reason # 10
Kruger National Park & Singita Lebombo
Knysna & Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa
South Africa Video Guide
African Safari Program Proposal
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
Newsletter Notes

Africa News Reference

1. Incredible Elephant Balance At Lower Zambezi

2. Zambia – the land where wildlife reigns

3. The Tiniest 17ft Convoy Experience In South Africa

4. Conservation Groups in Coastal Kenya Work to Save Endangered Turtles

Country Guide

South Africa – Location & Geography

Situated at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa has a landmass of 1 233 404 km² edged on 3 sides by a nearly 3000km coastline washed by the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic. It is bordered in the north by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and also wraps itself around two independent countries, the Lesotho and Swaziland. The low-lying coastal zone is narrow for much of that distance, soon giving way to a mountainous escarpment that separates it from the high inland plateau. In some places, notably the province of KwaZulu-Natal in the east, a greater distance separates the coast from the escarpment. South Africa has a total land area of slightly more than 1.2-million square kilometers, making it roughly the same size as Niger, Angola, Mali and Colombia. It is one-eighth the size of the US, twice the size of France and over three times the size of Germany. South Africa measures some 1600km from north to south, and roughly the same from east to west.

Click here for a complete guide to South Africa

South Africa Travel Guide

Top 10 Reason For Visiting South Africa – Reason # 10 As Experienced By AfricanMecca

Reason # 10 - Family Destination

South Africa Offers Family Themed Destinations & Attractions In Places Such As Sun City, Cape Town, Durban, Kruger Etc – Perfect To Experience During Your South Africa Vacations & Holidays

Click here to review all Top 10 Reasons For Visiting South Africa

South Africa Safari Guide

Kruger National Park

Where nearly 2 million hectares of unrivalled diversity of life forms fuses with historical and archaeological sights this is real Africa. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares, Kruger National Park is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. Truly the flagship of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man’s interaction with the Lowveld environment over many centuries – from bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela – is very evident in the Kruger National Park. These treasures represent the cultures, persons and events that played a role in the history of the Kruger National Park and are conserved along with the park’s natural assets.

Click here for complete guide to Kruger National Park

South Africa Safari Guide

Singita Lebombo Lodge in Kruger National Park
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier™

Like the Lebombo Euphorbia tree after which it was named, the design of Singita Lebombo Lodge is one of a kind. From the sweeping wooden decks, you can watch the theatre that unfolds before you, while the lap pool beckons to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The fifteen suites feature contemporary finishes with beds dressed with Egyptian cotton and silky-soft throws.

Click here for complete information on Singita Lebombo Lodge & complete guide to Kruger National Park

Indian Ocean Beach & Africa Coastal Guide

Knysna

If you’re looking for South Africans’ most popular small town, go to the end of the Garden Route in the Western Cape to Knysna the ‘elegant lagoon’. It’s easy to get the ‘Knysna Spirit’ as you drive in on the N2 Highway from Cape Town. The town is well developed these days, but you still feel you’re traveling in woodcutter country. Knysna has, for many, become the pot of gold at the end of the Garden Route. It’s famed attraction is the Eastern and Western Heads, a cavenous expanse where many a ship has met its doom. Today the Featherbed Nature Reserve pays homage to the richness of fauna and flora that Knysna has to offer. The Knysna Elephant Park is where you can interact with and feed the relocated jumbo families. It’s a favorite with the youngsters. If they’re still in the mood for a ‘creature feature’, then whip them down the N2 to Monkeyland for a visitation with some of the loveliest lemurs in southern Africa. But the real wildlife activities in these parts is to go out to sea and find the dolphins and the southern right whales that seasonally visit the shores of the Paradise Coast. To find yourself in the middle of a 4 000-strong pod of common dolphins leaping through the waves is a unique experience you will carry with you for years.

Click here for complete complete guide to Knysna

Indian Ocean Beach & Africa Coastal Guide

Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa in Knysna
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on AfricanMecca Rating

Africa’s first truly luxury resort, located on the Eastern Head of Knysna on the exquisite coastline of the Western Cape, is a sanctuary of privacy and indulgence created to reflect the natural beauty of its surrounds. Set on a stunning 1,000 ha estate, known for its secluded beach, sweeping fynbos landscapes and ancient indigenous forests, the Pezula Resort has breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, the Knysna Lagoon and the Outeniqua Mountains. Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa is the culmination of the vision of Pezula Group Chairman Keith Stewart whose dream was to create a luxury resort in one of the most exquisite locations in the world. The property is bordered by the rugged cliffs of the Southern Cape coast, the Sinclair Nature Reserve and the Eastern Head of Knysna. It has panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Knysna Lagoon

Click here for complete details on Pezula & complete guide to Knysna

South Africa Video Guide

Recommended African Safari Tour Program

7 Days – Showcasing South Africa Safari & Tour

AfricanMecca’s Showcasing South Africa Safari & Tour selects South Africa’s 3 key destinations – Kruger National Park, Cape Town & Franschhoek Winelands by superbly delivering a showcase of the country in one awesome program.

AfricanMecca guests visit Kruger National Park for a safari experience where nearly 2 million hectares of unrivalled diversity of life forms fuses with historical and archaeological sights – this is real Africa within South Africa. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Truly the flagship of the South African National Parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man’s interaction with the Lowveld environment over many centuries – from bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela – is very evident in the Kruger National Park. Your safari will be experienced in Sabi Sand on the South Western border to Kruger National Park, this immense and diverse tract of land is home to The Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) and much much more. Thereafter, your program is combined with a visit to Cape Town which many attractions have made it a famed destination for many Hollywood movies and global travelers alike. Guests can take a trip to the Cape Winelands and taste South Africa’s homegrown wines; see the world from your vantage point on the top of famed Table Mountain; dine like a king at any of South Africa’s fantastic restaurants and celebrate the great outdoors even during the winter months. You can visit the famed V&A Waterfront – a super spot shopping and eating, and its attractions include the Two Oceans Aquarium, a craft market and an amphitheatre where local artists perform. Additionally, AfricanMecca guests can also take a harbor cruise or strike out for Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent many years in imprisonment. The treacherous Cape Point promontory a witness to many a shipwreck enhances Cape Town’s reputation for dramatic scenery. It’s a trip well worth making, the last part up to a lighthouse completed by funicular. Cape Town is an ideal vacation spot for those seeking adventure, relaxation and entertainment. After your Cape Town stay, AfricanMecca guests will experience Franschhoek Valley located in the heart of the Cape Winelands which nestles between towering mountains. Franschhoek is the food and wine heartland of the South Africa, where splendid wines are grown and its top chefs create international cuisine. Guests can experience breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world class cuisine and the finest wines. Spectacular vineyards cover these mountain slopes settled more than 300 years ago by the Huguenots, who brought with them their age-old French wine and food culture. This is a valley rich in history centered around a picturesque village of friendly, welcoming people. Click here for Showcasing South Africa Safari & Tour itinerary

Click here to review other Africa & South Africa recommended safari programs.

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

HI Raza/Altaf and the rest of the AfricanMecca team,

We just returned from our trip to Africa. The planning for this trip started over an year ago, however i got in touch with Africanmecca about 6 months prior to my time. From day 1, i’ve received nothing but exceptional service from this group. It was not an easy task, which at first I thought was never going to be planned perfectly. We had a group of 10 people, going to 4 different countries (Livingston, Zambia/ cape town, south Africa/ Zanzibar, Tanzania/ and Masai Mara, Kenya). Our trip to all those countries was to be completed in 2 weeks. The amount of planning and more planning that went into this was unbelievable. However, with the guidance and expertise of Raza not one thing went wrong. I had mentally prepared going into this trip that there would be things going wrong and we would just have to make the best of it. After all, there was 10 individuals, with 20 different pieces of luggage, and 14 different flights we flew on through our journey. This was definitely a very complex trip to plan which required someone who had great knowledge, experience and patience. It was an absolutely perfect trip, not one thing went wrong. Raza had put together the most time efficient trip for us taking into consideration every possible thing someone can. These people know what they are doing! Every single aspect of the planning was perfect. All the transfer agencies were polite, friendly, timely and very helpful. Being thousands of miles away from home in a completely foreign country, we never felt help was that far away. All the transfer companies did an exceptional job of leaving you with more than enough information on anything and everything you need. They were literally a phone call away, anytime of the day. All the flights booked were well spaced with no delays/missed or cancel flights experienced through the whole trip. We had picked our own hotels and had Raza make reservations for us. Everything that was said that was going to happen, happened! The communication was very open and 2 sided from the beginning. Everything was clearly explained and dealt with in a step by step manner. I can go on and on about what an amazing job Raza and his team did to make this trip a trip of a life time for 10 individuals. Thank you very much for all your hard work and amazing planning you had put together for us. I am and will continue to highly recommend your services to anyone looking to travel.

Pappu Patel
United States

Tagged: Africa, africa hotels, Africa Safari, Africa safaris, africa travel news, African Safari, african safaris, cape town, knysna, kruger, pezula, Safari, singita, south africa, south africa hotels, south africa safari

AfricanMecca Safaris Newsletter – Spring 2010 – Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Camp & Mnemba Private Island Experiences

AfricanMecca — Mon, 10 May 2010 18:31:55 +0000

AfricanMecca Newsletter – Spring 2010 – Update from Americas, European and Africa Offices

AfricanMecca Newsletter Archive

In This Edition:

Africa News Reference
Tanzania – Location & Geography
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Tanzania – Reason # 3
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge In Lake Manyara National Park
Mnemba Island Lodge – Private Island Experience
Tanzania Safari & Culture Video Guide
African Safari Program Prices & Proposal
Indian Ocean Beach & Cultural Program Prices
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
Newsletter Notes

Africa News Reference

1. Incredible Birth – First Moments Of Baby Giraffe In The Masai Mara

2. Climbing Kilimanjaro, By A Hair – Experience by Emile Hirsch (Actor & Activist)

3. Tanzania’s New Goodwill Tourism Ambassador In America

4. Fastest Human On Earth Adopts The Fastest Land Animal On Earth

5. Tennis Star In The Heart Of The Akamba Community, Kenya’s Leading Long Distance Traders

Country Guide

Tanzania – Location & Geography

Tanzania covers 937,062 square kilometers making it the largest country in Eastern Africa. Just south of the equator, it borders Kenya and Uganda to the north; the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Burundi in the west; and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique in the south, and is therefore a splendid center from which to explore eastern, central and southern Africa. Through the interior runs the Great Rift Valley, that vast fault-line down the spine of Africa that in Tanzania has created many fascinating topographical features such as the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Tanganyika. The central plateau (1,200 meters above sea level) is a huge expanse of savannah and sparse woodland. To the north, the 5890-meter Mount Kilimanjaro rises making it the highest mountain in Africa. While the interior is largely arid, the 800-kilometer coastline is lush and palm-fringed, as are the Islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia.

Click here for a complete guide to Tanzania

Top 10 Reason For Visiting Tanzania – Reason # 3 As Experienced By AfricanMecca

Reason # 3 – Active Adventure: Climb the “Natural Wonder Of The World”. Mount Kilimanjaro being easily accessible has been the dream of many athletes and adventurers who wish to experience and pride themselves of having been to the roof of Africa. The variety of routes suited for varying lifestyles makes Mount Kilimanjaro a must climb for people who just want to experience nature or view the ecosystems and terrains. For those ready to take up the challenge, opportunities exist to make it all the way to the top with the help of professional and certified guides and porters. If climbing Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t a thrill enough, AfricanMecca guests can trek up Ol Donyo Lengai Mountain of God, which remains an active volcano mountain to date. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life was filmed at Ol Donyo Lengai – Mountain of God.

Experience Authentic Adventure, Filled With Fun Like Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, A Possibility For Most Any Individual.

Click here to review all Top 10 Reasons For Visiting Tanzania

Tanzania Safari Guide

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge In Lake Manyara National Park
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier™

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is the only lodge in the small yet diverse Lake Manyara National Park. The lodge is located in the remote southwestern region of the Lake Manyara, allowing leisurely tracking of the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, and for unimpeded viewing of the flocks of pelicans, flamingoes and buffalo cooling in the soda lake.

Click here for complete information on Lake Manyara Tree Lodge & complete guide to Lake Manyara National Park

Indian Ocean Beach Accommodation Guide

Mnemba Island Lodge Near Zanzibar Island – Private Island Experience
AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on AfricanMecca Rating

Mnemba, an untouched atoll off the coast of Zanzibar, is therapy for the spirit. Mnemba, an Arabic word meaning octopus head, lies two kilometers northeast of the island of Zanzibar, a 20-minute cruise in a traditional 16 foot flat-bottomed boat. A pristine swathe of beach defines the island’s one-mile circumference. A protection zone surrounds the island, conserving magnificent coral reefs where giant turtles, Ghost Crabs and spectacular tropical fish drift through the lagoons. Fresh, delicate sea breezes waft through Mnemba Lodge, lending a castaway air to the entire island. Mnemba Island features just ten ensuite banda cottages, bordered on three sides by tropical beach forest and overlooking the beach and coral reef. Each exquisite banda has been hand-woven and thatched from tree branches and traditional Zanzibar palm matting. The materials were chosen to allow the cooling sea breezes to move through the bungalow and assisted by overhead fans, the cottages remain cool all day.

Click here for complete details on Mnemba Island Lodge & complete guide to Zanzibar

Tanzania Video Guide

Biodiversity & Wildlife Experience At Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania

Click here for a complete video guide to Tanzania

Recommended African Safari Program

8 Days – Highlights Of Tanzania Safari II: From US $3055 or GBP 1972 per person sharing. Programs Inclusions: accommodation, meals, road and local air transfers, conservancy and park fees, game activities and all taxes. Click here for a complete itinerary. Tailor-make safari is available on request.

Click here to review other Africa & Tanzania recommended safari programs.

Recommended Indian Ocean Beach & Cultural Program

MID SEASON DISCOUNT: Mnemba Island Lodge – Private Island Experience: US $1100 or GBP 758 per person sharing per night. Offer valid from 1-15 June, 01 Nov to 15 Dec 2010; otherwise, normal price of US $1500 or GBP 1000 per person sharing per night applied.

Programs Inclusions: Tropical accommodation in hand-woven “banda” cottages, three meals daily, Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, tea and coffee, laundry. Watersports included: scuba diving (2 dives per day for guests holding a full PADI certificate only), snorkelling, kayaking, flyfishing, sundowner dhow cruise, and windsurfing

The above beach extensions can be tailor-made for our guests from North America, UK and other worldwide regions. Click here for prices for Indian Ocean Beach Holidays to Mombasa, Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo etc.

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer ExperienceKenya & Tanzania Safari Testimonial From Travel Away Agency In Toronto, Canada

Hope you like the above photos. As you know there was five of us on the safari, we all had a great time. Saw the big five. Saw every animal possible. Local guides were great and very helpful and went out of their way to make sure we missed nothing. My dad whom is 75 had a fantastic time and said it was a trip of a life time, as did everyone else. I want to thank you and your company for arranging everything and everything went smoothly as planned.

Thank you again, would recommend your company to anyone.

Noelle Balakrishnan

Travel Away Inc

2550 Matheson Blvd

Unit 125

Mississauga, Ont L4W 4Z1

Canada

PH: 416 626 2929

Fax: 905 361 2683

www.adventuresaway.com

Tagged: africanmecca, lake manyara, mnemba island, Tanzania safari, Tanzania Safaris & Vacations, Zanzibar

AfricanMecca Safaris Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2009 – Zambia Safari & Zanzibar Beach Hotels & Vacation

AfricanMecca — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:36:36 +0000

AfricanMecca Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2009 – Update from Americas, European and Africa Offices

In This Edition:

AfricanMecca News
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Zambia – Reason # 2
Royal Zambezi Lodge in Lower Zambezi National Park
Matemwe Retreat in Zanzibar Island
Zambia Safari & Culture Video Guide
African Safari Program Prices & Proposal
Indian Ocean Beach & Cultural Program Prices
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
Newsletter Notes

AfricanMecca News

1. Kenya Orphanage Takes In Elephant Babies (VIDEO LINK) – Experience Daphne Sheldrick Baby Elephant Orphanage by booking the Daphnes Sheldrick Babes AfricanMecca Tour. Complete details

2. The Great Migration (VIDEO LINK) – Experience the Great Wildebeest Migration by booking the Best Of East Africa Safari. Complete details

3. Naomi Campbell In Tanzania For Fashion For Relief Charity

4. Victoria Falls – The Smoke that Thunders (VIDEO LINK). BBC Natural World IPlayer Video is only viewable in the UK.

5. Our 2010 safari, hotel and tour prices are now published and available. Please contact us for your tailor-make tour program or visit our website for recommended tour programs.

Country Guide

Zambia – People & Language

Zambia has one of the lowest population to land ratio’s in Africa. Only 10 million people in a country half the size of Europe. The employment opportunities offered in the post independence era in the copper mines and associated industries led to a strong rural-urban migration. The result has been to make Zambia one of the most urbanized countries in Africa. About one fifth of the population lives on the Copperbelt to the north of the capital, but the biggest concentration of people is in Lusaka itself with an estimated population of over 2 million. This has resulted in massive tracts of uninhabited land across the country. With over 70 different tribes in Zambia, there is wide cultural diversity. Interestingly enough, it is one of the few countries in Africa with very little tribal conflict, and the existence of so many tribes has proved less of a political problem than in many other African states. The Main tribes are the Lozi, the Bemba, the Ngoni, the Tonga, the Luvale and the Kaonde
Click here for a complete guide to Zambia

Zambia Travel Guide

Top 10 Reasons To Visit Zambia In Africa As Experienced By AfricanMecca

Reason # 2 – Zambia’s Wild & Unspoilt Wilderness Safari Experience: The national parks in Zambia remain off the beaten path, and nature is showcased and at work by the minute and particularly during the night game drives in the parks. The large waterways in Zambia make most of the parks inaccessible from November to March, allowing wildlife, plantlife, birdlife & the whole ecosystem to undergo a complete rejuvenation & rebirth by the time April comes around. The ecology’s unique “my time” is most loved and cherished by nature lovers allowing them to see the complete environment in a natural state after total five month absence. It is no wonder that famous adage about Zambia applies naturally: “Zambia – The Real Africa”.
Click here to review all Top 10 Reasons For Visiting Zambia

Zambia Safari Guide

Royal Zambezi Lodge in Lower Zambezi National Park

AfricanMecca Tier 1 Accommodation. Click here for details on Safari Tier™

Royal Zambezi Lodge is located on the bank of the Zambezi at one of its broadest points. With 3km of river frontage, Royal Zambezi Lodge borders the Lower Zambezi National Park and sits within a Game Management Area. With lions roaring in the distance and hippos snorting to each other nearby, the luxurious thatched tents, elegant design and gourmet cuisine of Royal Zambezi Lodge provide a perfect base from which to explore this wild and beautiful area.
In the Lower Zambezi Valley, the river follows the trace of an ancient continental rift, between steep-sided mountains. Watered year-round, the vast flat area between the two escarpment ranges forms an area of outstanding natural beauty, with a unique ecosystem. Teeming with fish, the river supports a truly astounding bird population. Reed banks and islands are home to elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, hippo and zebra, amongst countless others.

Click here for complete information on Royal Zambezi Lodge & complete guide to Lower Zambezi National Park

Indian Ocean Cultural Beach Accommodation Guide

Matemwe Retreat in Zanzibar Island

AfricanMecca Tier 1 Experience. Click here for details on AfricanMecca Rating
Matemwe Retreat is located on an amazing stretch of private land, just north of Matemwe’s main lodge and right opposite the Mnemba Atoll. Matemwe Retreat consists of 3 fabulous, separate villas, full of atmosphere, inspiration and personal touches. Each ground floor of each villa (150 m2 including verandahs) features a private cocktail bar, an air-conditioned bedroom, a bathroom with double basins, shower, and large romantic bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean. The best part of each villa is the plunge pool on the private roof terrace (60 m2), complete with sun and shade decks. And if this is not enough to make you want to stay there right now – each villa has its own small beach right in front of it.
Click here for complete details on Matemwe Retreat & complete guide to Zanzibar

Zambia Video Guide

Royal Zambezi Lodge House

Royal Zambezi Lodge Suite Room View – Click Here To Watch
Royal Zambezi Lodge Room View – Click Here To Watch
Royal Zambezi Lodge Spa Room – Click Here To Watch
Royal Zambezi Lodge Elephant Feeding Next To Room – Click Here To Watch
Royal Zambezi Lodge Views – Click Here To Watch
Royal Zambezi Lodge Elephant Walking By To Feed – Click Here To Watch

Click here for a complete video guide to Zambia

Recommended African Safari Program

7 Days – Glimpses Of Zambia Safari: From US $3395 or GBP 2191 per person sharing. Programs Inclusions: accommodation, meals, drinks, road and local air transfers, conservancy and park fees, game activities and all taxes. Click here for a complete itinerary. Tailor-make safari is available on request.
Click here to review other Africa & Zambia recommended safari programs.

Recommended Indian Ocean Beach & Cultural Program

1. SPECIAL OFFER: Matemwe Retreat: US $430 or GBP 278 per person sharing per night plus one free night for every 3 nights booked. Offer valid from December 2009 to March 2010 (if booked before December 31, 2009)
2. Bush & Beach Safari: 7 Nights Showcasing Kenya Safari & 7 Nights Mombasa Beach Holiday: From US $2304 or GBP 1486 per person. Complete details

The above beach extensions can be tailor-made for our guests from North America, UK and other worldwide regions. Click here for prices for Indian Ocean Beach Holidays to Mombasa, Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo etc.
Bush & Beach Safari – Combine with Mombasa Beach Holidays. Click here for prices and safari programs

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Jambo Altaf,

I want to let you know that both Dorothy and I found our two week trip to Kenya to be an absolutely wonderful experience. Our booking through AfricanMecca for our trip in August 2009 delivered everything we hoped for and more. We were met on arrival at Mombasa airport for the minibus journey to Leopard Beach Hotel with loads of local information provided by our driver on the way. The hotel was excellent in all respects, from the welcome with chilled towels and drinks to the helpful and cheerful service from every member of staff. Large comfortable air-conditioned rooms overlook the Indian Ocean, as does the main Horizon restaurant where the meals were lacking neither in variety nor quality. We stayed two nights at Leopard Beach initially before going on safari and then a further six nights on our return. Our first safari began by road to Tsavo West, staying one night at Kilaguni Serena Lodge. The restaurant, open to one side overlooking the water hole, provided a wonderful lunch and dinner with tremendous views of elephant, zebra, giraffe and buffalo, to name but a few.

Following an afternoon game drive which included the enchanting Mzima Springs and ended with the first of many fantastic sunsets, we had a comfortable night before an early start next morning. We moved on to Satao Elerai, overlooking Amboseli with Peter, our driver for these three days, pointing out many items of interest along the way. Our room at Elerai was in fact a self-contained cottage and while it was reminiscent of the Flintstones in style, the facilities were far from stone-age. We were lucky enough to witness two young male elephants at the water-hole while we had lunch, before Peter took us down to Amboseli for another fascinating game drive. After an excellent dinner and a nightcap in front of a roaring log fire, we were up next morning for another early start. At seven hours, we found the drive back to Voi Gate into Tsavo East to be rather tiring but we still made it to Satao Camp just in time for lunch outside, under the tree. This and a short siesta set us up for our afternoon game drive which culminated at close quarters with a cheetah. What a beautiful animal!

A busy day and a fine meal sent us to bed where we slept like logs, only to be told next day that we had missed a visit from a couple of lions at four in the morning. Our neighbours in the next tent showed us the paw-prints in the dust outside to prove it! With a good breakfast inside us, we were on our way to Buchuma Gate where sadly, we had to say farewell to Peter, our driver, guide and companion for the last three days. We were tremendously impressed, not only with his detailed knowledge of his country and its flora and fauna but also with his enthusiasm in sharing it all with us. We hope to see him again.

The air-conditioned shuttle bus took us back to the coast then for an overnight stop at Nyali Beach Hotel. It is old colonial in style having been opened in 1949 and while we enjoyed our brief stay and had no complaints at all, on balance we preferred Leopard Beach. After another early breakfast we were collected for the short trip to Mombasa airport for our flight to the Masai Mara and a two night safari. Arrangements for the internal flight on an eighteen seat twin-prop aircraft where rather more relaxed than is international flying these days; quite a refreshing change. The views of Kilimanjaro from 11500 feet were stunning. The landing on an airstrip in the bush was amazingly smooth and we were soon on our way to Karen Blixen Camp for lunch. On the way, Pius, our driver took our open-sided six-passenger safari vehicle off the main route and diverted into a small coppice of bushes. To our delight, we were soon within a few yards of a pride of four or five lionesses, stretched out in the shade. This time we were awake!

Our three days in the Mara were truly magical. The location of Karen Blixen Camp on the eastern bank of the Mara River is absolutely beautiful and we could not fault the accommodation and service although some of the catering would benefit from improvement. While you Mombasa team handled all our other ground arrangements (and more about them later) Karen Blixen Camp arranged everything in the Mara. Their modern Toyota 4WD open vehicles were great for game viewing and their drivers and guides were excellent. We remember particularly, Pius, David, Nixon and especially Peter, our Masai guide. Not only did we value his expertise on our game drives but also one evening he gave a fascinating insight into Masai culture to the assembled company before dinner. On our second day in the Mara, we were given the opportunity to take a full day game drive into the conservancy to the south. As this was the right time of year for the Great Migration, if we were very lucky, we might see ‘the crossing’. We approached the river slowly, passing thousands of wildebeest all heading in the same direction. The leaders stopped some hundred yards short of the river bank as the rest of the herd formed up behind them, some zebra and gazelle mixed in with them. They moved forward some distance then stopped again; and again; and again. Eventually, the decision was made to cross and they galloped en masse for the water, plunging through and up the river bank on the far side. More followed and still more until we were convinced that every wildebeest in Africa was in this herd. The crossing was incessant for over half an hour until finally the last stragglers made their way up the far bank. Our driver, David estimated anything up to 10,000 animals had crossed. We had lost count after about 5,000!

This sight was absolutely magnificent and undoubtedly the highlight of the holiday.

After an early morning game drive on the third day, we had to take our leave and fly back to the coast. We were met at Ukunda airfield for the short drive back to Leopard Beach where we settled in for a more relaxing week. We were amazed at how much we had packed in to such a short time. However, we don’t hang around swimming pools for long so a couple of short trips had to be taken as well. We had a great day snorkelling off Wasini Island with dolphins and a hump-backed whale accompanying us on the way out and a fine late lunch on the way back. Two days later, dinner in Ali Barbour’s (sic) Cave restaurant near Leopard Beach was also most enjoyable. Then on our penultimate evening we saw Mombasa by night. A sunset dhow trip in Tudor Creek and under New Nyali Bridge took us to the old harbour. A short tour of the old town ended at Fort Jesus for a sound and light show followed by a wonderful dinner under the stars.

The ground handling by your Mombasa team was excellent throughout our trip. All their drivers and staff were friendly and helpful and their punctuality was impressive. Harry, their representative at Leopard Beach was tremendous in ensuring that everything ran smoothly. We valued especially his advice regarding all aspects of our visit from safaris to local trips to departure arrangements.

We were extremely sad to leave Kenya, its animals, its vast open spaces, its stunning scenery and especially its charming, polite, happy smiling people.

Asante sana a thousand times!
John Lowry
United Kingdom

Tagged: Africa Safari, African Safari Video, Lower Zambezi National Park, Matemwe Retreat, Royal Zambezi Lodge, Zambia, Zambia Safari, Zanzibar, Zanzibar Hotel, Zanzibar Island Beach Hotels

AfricanMecca Safaris Scoops Tanzania Tourist Board Safari Award At African Travel Association (ATA) Congress

AfricanMecca — Fri, 29 May 2009 10:21:23 +0000

http://www.prweb.com/releases/tanzaniasafaris/africasafaristravel/prweb2471904.htm

Tanzania Tourist Board Honors AfricanMecca During 2009 Tanzania Safari Tourism Award Gala At The ATA Congress in Cairo, Egypt

Allentown, PA (PRWEB) May 29, 2009 — AfricanMecca, Africa’s top specialist safari and tour operator celebrated as it received the Tanzania Tourism 2009 Award for the Southern and Western Circuit at the Africa Travel Association (ATA) Congress held in Cairo, Egypt. The Honorable Shamsa S. Mwangunga, Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, and President of ATA, presented the prestigious award at the special Tanzania Evening Gala Dinner held at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo.

Tanzania Tourist Board 2009 Safari Award – AfricanMecca

Altaf Visram – Sales and Reservation Director at the family-run African outfitter was delighted that the latest achievement of their North American safari tour operations has been recognized “It is a real honor to be in Egypt, and for AfricanMecca Safaris to have received the Southern and Western Tanzania Safari accolade. We are naturally proud as it hosts Selous, Ruaha, Mikumi, Katavi, Gombe and Mahale National Parks – pristine regions that are all too familiar to us, and are just a hop, skip and jump away from our maternal grandparents homeland in Southern Tanzania”.

More than 300 leading agents, tour operators and hospitality professionals from across the regional and global travel industry attended the Africa Travel Association (ATA) Congress in Cairo last week. The four-day forum addressed a myriad of topics, such as the future of Africa’s tourism industry, tourism growth markets, travel trends, airline access to Africa, investment opportunities in the tourism industry and transportation. In addition, delegates participated in roundtables with tourism ministers, an Africa Bazaar for buyers and sellers, networking events, host country days, multiple gala dinners and pre- and post- country tours.

Americans have the highest tourist arrivals in Tanzania – The Land Of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and The Serengeti, also the cradle of mankind. AfricanMecca’s number one priority is commitment to its travel agents and customers. Added Visram “All credit to our employees and team offices who provide uncompromising, dedicated and quality driven personalized services. It is with our experience and accurate knowledge of our homeland that we have the ability to understand and create tailor-made tours to unimaginable places a reality, which benefit our clients taking into account various factual operational and feasibility factors unknown to the first time or limited time traveler to Africa.”

AfricanMecca has scooped up a number of important accolades this year. The most recent it topped was the National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s selection of Best Adventure Travel Companies On Earth in 2009 with a superb customer satisfaction rate of 96.67%.

About AfricanMecca
AfricanMecca is a natively owned Africa Destination Management Company with professional tour planning and reservation partner offices in the United States, United Kingdom and ground operations team within Africa serving travel agents and clients throughout the world. AfricanMecca is a TOP Operator Member at American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), one of less than 90 Elite Tour Providers in the World & Africa’s Specialty Tour Operator. More information on Africa safari, vacation tours and holiday destination guide to Tanzania, Zanzibar, Kenya, Zambia

Media Contact:
AfricanMecca Inc
Sheena Rahim
1-866-527-4281
media@africanmecca.com
http://www.africanmeccasafaris.com

Tagged: Africa, africa africa holiday africa vacations africa travel african safari africa safari tanzania safaris tanzania vacations tanzania travel tanzania holidays, African Safari, AfricanMecca Safaris, ASTA, kilimanjaro, mahale, ngorongoro, Selous, Selous Tanzania, serengeti, Tanzania safari, Tanzania Safaris & Vacations, Zanzibar

Tanzania Eco-Tourism & Zanzibar Beach Culture – AfricanMecca Safaris, Tours & Beach Vacation Newsletter – Spring 2009

AfricanMecca — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:36:02 +0000

In This Edition:

Tanzania – People & Language
Top 10 Reason For Visiting Tanzania – Reason # 5
Kikoti Camp In Tarangire National Park
Zanzibar Serena Inn in Stone Town, Zanzibar – Unguja Island
Tanzania Safari & Culture Video Guide
African Safari Program Prices & Proposal
Indian Ocean Beach & Cultural Program Prices & Proposals
2009 & 2010 Safari Discount Specials Update
Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience
Newsletter Notes

Tanzania Country Guide

Tanzania – People & Language

In Tanzania, a land of superb landscapes and spectacular wildlife, another attraction stands equally tall: the people. Tanzania’s people are among the most welcoming and approachable on earth, with a range of fascinating cultures ready to be shared with visitors. From the Chagga of the slopes of Kilimanjaro to the now world-famous Maasai, a cultural excursion or a longer stay among local people is likely to become one of the most rewarding experiences of any holiday in Tanzania. In addition, many local areas run their own cultural programs for visitors, bringing income directly to the community and giving the people the chance to show their lifestyle to the outside world on their own terms. Cultural tourism programs are beneficial to everyone: the visiting guests get a unique and unforgettable experience, the local people generate income and improve their standard of living, and both parties gain a valuable understanding of another culture which will last long after the visitors have returned home.

Click here for a complete guide to Tanzania

Tanzania Travel Guide

Top 10 Reason For Visiting Tanzania – Reason # 5

Number 5 – Eco-Tourism Experience: More increasingly our guests are asking us for a true genuine African experience vacation. An African experience that is run by indigenous people of Africa in a environment where your stay is at accommodations built by indigenous people of Africa, and where the revenue from your spending actually and directly assists the indigenous population be self sufficient and self reliant. Apart from visiting the Maasai homesteads, take for example the experience at Chumbe Island where the accommodation has been designed in natural material. Food served comes from the freshest produces. While guests staying there have the opportunity to enjoy the offerings such as snorkeling and also learning about the lodge’s effort in preserving and sustaining the islands ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Click here to review all Top 10 Reasons For Visiting Tanzania

Tanzania Safari Accommodation Guide

Kikoti Camp In Tarangire National Park

Kikoti is a Maa (language of the Maasai) word for “the place where life began”, the name bestowed by the local Maasai upon an ancient pre-Jurassic kopje in the Tarangire ecosystem in recognition of its enduring permanence and dominant status in the surrounding ecosystem. When owners of Kikoti Camp began working with local communities in the Tarangire Conservation Area, it seemed like the perfect name for the safari camp, showing respect for the Maasai community that have roamed the area for generations, and the owners reverence for the game-rich wilderness in which the camp is located.

Click here for complete information on Kikoti Camp & complete guide to Tarangire

Indian Ocean Cultural Beach Accommodation Guide

Zanzibar Serena Inn in Stone Town, Zanzibar – Unguja Island

Idyllically situated on the sea front of ancient Stone Town, washed by the aquamarine waters of the Zanzibar channel, redolent of the scent of cloves and flanked by an exotic melange of sultan’s palaces, Portuguese forts, ancient dhow harbors, dark slave markets, and bright bazaars, the Zanzibar Serena Inn is a haven of tranquility and opulence amongst the bustle of Zanzibar. Faithfully restored and lavishly embellished with a jackdaw collection of antique clocks, crystal chandeliers, fretwork screens, carved staircases, Persian rugs and brass-studded doors, the interior design concept is a fusion of authenticity and opulence that reflects the very essence of Zanzibar

Click here for complete details on Zanzibar Serena Inn & complete guide to Zanzibar

Tanzania Video Guide

Maasai Cultural & Tribal Dance

1. Authentic Maasai Entertainment At Kikoti Camp – Click Here To Watch Video I
2. Authentic Maasai Entertainment At Kikoti Camp – Click Here To Watch Video II
3. Authentic Maasai Entertainment At Kikoti Camp – Click Here To Watch Video III

Wildlife Diversity & Safari Experience At Tarangire

1. Tarangire National Park Birds – Click Here To Watch Video
2. Tarangire National Park Eagle – Click Here To Watch Video
3. Tarangire National Park Steinbok – Click Here To Watch Video
4. Tarangire National Park Scenic Views – Click Here To Watch Video I
5. Tarangire National Park Scenic Views – Click Here To Watch Video II
6. Tarangire National Park Wildlife – Click Here To Watch Video I
7. Tarangire National Park Wildlife – Click Here To Watch Video II

Click here for a complete video guide to Tanzania

Recommended African Safari Program – TIER 2 SAFARI

* 6 Days – Classic Tanzania Safari II (Includes Tarangire): From US $2190 or GBP 1623 per person sharing. Programs Inclusions: accommodation, meals, drinks, road and local air transfers, conservancy and park fees, game activities and all taxes. Click here for a complete itinerary. Tailor-make safari is available on request.

Click here to review other Tanzania recommended safari programs.

Recommended Indian Ocean Beach Program From Heathrow – 15 May Departures

* 14 nights Bluebay Beach Resort in Zanzibar. £1395 per person including international flights from London Heathrow or tailor-make overnight price from US $90 or GBP 67 per person per night.
* 7 nights Pinewood Village in Mombasa Kenya. £866 per person including international flights from London Heathrow or tailor-make overnight price from US $90 or GBP 67 per person per night. 2009 Mombasa departures available with more specials. Click here
* Highlights Of Pinewood Village Beach & Kilimanjaro Tsavo Safari – 10 Nights Beach & 4 Nights Safari. US $1962 or £1401 per person – excludes international flights.

The above programs can be tailor-made for our guests from North America, UK and other worldwide regions. Click here for prices for Indian Ocean Beach Holidays to Mombasa, Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo etc.

Bush & Beach Safari - Combine with Mombasa Beach Holidays. Click here for prices and safari programs

GREAT NEWS – NEW DISCOUNTS ON SAFARIS FOR 2009 & 2010!

There are several discounts that are available to our clients on some of our safaris. Some as high as 25-50% off the overnight room rates at superb wildlife camps to free local flights between safari parks for select participating safari accommodations. As our rates for 2009 have already been published and distributed to our agents and clients, we would recommend to any client or travel agent to inquiry about on our specific itineraries they like and will reply back with the most updated discount available to us. All discounts are passed on to our client. If you have certain budget constraints, we will be happy to recommend the appropriate itinerary and program for your budget.

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

Hi, I thought I would drop you a quick email to let you know how much Luc & I enjoyed our trip to Tanzania. The Kili trek was awesome & we were supported by a great team of guides & porters. I very much doubt either of us would have made the summit without the help & encouragement of Augustine & William. The safari was amazing too. All 3 lodges were excellent & our guide Babu ensured we enjoyed great game viewing. Thank you for organising the trip for us. Please pass on our thanks to everyone concerned. Luc has already passed your details onto a colleague of his who I understand is also booking a trip. We would be happy to recommend your company to anyone else considering a trip to Africa.

Kind regards

Karen Loughrey
United Kingdom

Click Here To View More AfricanMecca Safari, Tours & Beach Vacation Customer Testimonials

Newsletter Notes:

Archive: Click here for previous AfricanMecca Newsletters.

Sharing: If you would like to share our newsletter with a family member or friend, you can forward it on!

Provide Feedback: We would love to know what you think of our newsletters or our web site, and how we can improve it. Click here to provide feedback.

Contribute Your Africa Travel Story/Experience & Photos: If you would like us to feature your East Africa travel experience and photos, please email it to us. Please indicate “NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTE” as subject so we can track your submission.

Subscribe: Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.

Tagged: Africa Safari, African Safari Videos, AfricanMecca Safaris, Tanzania safari, Tarangire, Zanzibar, Zanzibar Serena

Tanzania Safaris With A New Selous Safari & Ecology Game Reserve Guide Book

AfricanMecca — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:30:36 +0000

Dr. Rolf Baldus’ Special Book On The Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania – Wild Heart of Africa

Dr. Baldus discussing with AfricaMecca Safaris: “Our interest in the Selous is non-commercial and all profits from the previous travel guides went actually back to the reserve. My first travel guide on the Selous appeared on the market around 1990. We have produced three more guidebooks since then. Selous book (first ever) which will be on the market in late March. I will send a reference with separate email.”

AfricanMecca Information, Videos and Photos On The Selous Safari Game Reserve.

Rolf’s Email Communication PDF Link:http://www.africanmecca.com/notes/Rolf.pdf

Standard Edition Link:http://www.rowlandward.com/product.aspx?id=642 & Special Edition Link:http://www.rowlandward.com/product.aspx?id=643

AfricanMecca’s recommended Tanzania Safaris or tailor make your own Selous Safaristarting from Zanzibar,Dar es Salaam or Arusha.

The Original Selous Safari Camps Include:

Beho Beho Camp

Rufiji River Camp

Sable Mountain Lodge

Sand Rivers Selous

Selous Impala Camp

Selous Mbega Camp

Selous Safari Camp

Please contact AfricanMecca Safaris to get in touch with the author.

Tagged: Africa, Africa safaris, African Safari, ASTA, Beho Beho, Rufiji River Camp, Sable Mountain, Safari, Sand River Selous, Sand Rivers, Selous, selous camp, selous camps, Selous Impala camp, Selous Mbega camp, Selous Park, selous reserve, Selous Safari, selous safari camp, Selous Safaris, Selous Tanzania, selous wildlife

AfricanMecca Safaris, Tours & Beach

Featuring Adventurous Tanzania & Barefoot Mnemba Island – Winter 2012

Featuring Spectacular Kafue Safari in Zambia & Upbeat Durban Beach In South Africa – Summer 2011

Featuring Historical Kenya Safari & Cultural Experiences & Vacations – Spring 2011

Featuring Maasai Cultural Graduation & South Africa’s Cape Town & Madikwe Safari Experiences – Winter 2010

AfricanMecca Safaris Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2010 – Kruger & Knysna Coastal Experiences

AfricanMecca Safaris Newsletter – Spring 2010 – Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Camp & Mnemba Private Island Experiences

AfricanMecca Safaris Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2009 – Zambia Safari & Zanzibar Beach Hotels & Vacation

AfricanMecca News

Country Guide

Zambia Travel Guide

Zambia Safari Guide Royal Zambezi Lodge in Lower Zambezi National Park

Indian Ocean Cultural Beach Accommodation Guide

Zambia Video Guide

Recommended African Safari Program

Recommended Indian Ocean Beach & Cultural Program

Another Perfect AfricanMecca Customer Experience

AfricanMecca Safaris Scoops Tanzania Tourist Board Safari Award At African Travel Association (ATA) Congress

Tanzania Eco-Tourism & Zanzibar Beach Culture – AfricanMecca Safaris, Tours & Beach Vacation Newsletter – Spring 2009

Tanzania Country Guide

Tanzania Travel Guide

Tanzania Safari Accommodation Guide

Indian Ocean Cultural Beach Accommodation Guide

Maasai Cultural & Tribal Dance

Wildlife Diversity & Safari Experience At Tarangire

Recommended African Safari Program – TIER 2 SAFARI

Recommended Indian Ocean Beach Program From Heathrow – 15 May Departures

Tanzania Safaris With A New Selous Safari & Ecology Game Reserve Guide Book

Zambia Safari Guide

Royal Zambezi Lodge in Lower Zambezi National Park