AfricA

Theres so many great places to go here. Every country has it's own charm.

Its hard to know where to start. Its even harder to know when to finish.

Obviously, the wildlife is important. You will see different things in different places. The Ben Lavin Nature Reserve in Louis Trichardt, South Africa, for example, is great if you want to walk amongst such animals as giraffe, warthogs, zebras, wildebeast and impala. If its 'the big five' you want-lion,leopard,elephant,rhino and buffalo- then you will have to be in a vehicle. In South Africa the Krugar NAtional PArk is the obvious choice.

For the truly unspoilt wilds of Africa, head to Botswana. Maybe you like fishing. Try deep sea fishing off the coast of Namibia or Mozambique, or inland on the Zambezi River. Experience the fragile interaction of the eco-system first hand. The birds, the insects, the plants and trees and the animals all live together, relying on each other for survival. Take the Ox pecker bird, living off the parasites that live on the buffalo or see a crocodile catch an antelope dinner.

Get off the beaten track in Zambia, enjoy the unspoilt coasline of Mozambique, or the 'desert sea' of Namibia. - truly a land of stark contrasts. Visit the place where half the ladies dress like this, and the other half in traditional tribal gear.

Natural wonders abound. Visit victoria falls, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, or the great zimbabwe ruins, possibly the oldest city ever built. But the remains are a mystery, no-one knows who built it.

Lets not forget the people, though. Africa has had a long and varied history, and it shows. In South Africa, there are 11 official languages, in Zambia its more like 30. See the influences of all the colonialists. The English, Germans, Dutch and Portugese all had an influence, among others.

Taste the local food, sample the local culture. Traditions, ceremonies and tribal rituals are still the African way of life.

The spirit of Africa is alive in the rhythm of the drums.

All through Africa you will find people selling their Arts and crafts. Zimbabwe is particularily endowed with artistic talent. The crafts you will find there will amaze you. The craftmanship has been passed down from generation to generation. Best of all, you are buying them from the people who create them.

Well, now you must have a strong appetite for Africa. I hope we have provided you with at least some idea of what is available. Remember, if you want a special trip, then you should get in touch with us now. Even if it's something we haven't mentioned here, we love to discover new things too. It doesn't hurt to ask.

If you have any questions at all, please email us. Our address is mwtrails@mweb.co.za.

Whatever you do, make sure you have fun. Happy Holidays.

Oryx Excursions, Africa