An Insiders View on Kenya

By Renuka Natu

What makes Kenya a good travel destination?
The promise and guarantee of spotting the wild animals all year round.

Top 3 things that every traveller must know about Safari experience in Kenya?
• When you observe the behaviour of the animals in their habitat, you can’t miss the uncanny semblance they have to human behaviour – especially the male Lion, lazing around while the Lioness works hard to get a kill & feed the family

• So many words in Swahili and Hindi are similar – Safari (Safar) = Journey; Duka (Dukan) = Shop; Gari (Gaadi) = Car; Dava (Daru) = Alcohol …..

• The huge ethnic Indian influence, especially the Gujarati influence, where sometime even the local Kenyan might throw in a phrase like “Biju kai?” in a restaurant

When is the best time to go on safari in Kenya?
It is a year-round destination. Once is never enough
Ideally one must visit, once during migration season and once during the non-migration season.

What items and clothing should one pack when travelling to Kenya?
Travel very light
-Light Jacket
-One open & 1 closed pair of shoes
-Cotton / Linen Shirts
-Cotton Trousers / Track pants
-Hat
-Bandana
-Glares
-Glasses (no Contact lenses)
-Lip Balm, Sunscreen, hair-oil

What sort of preparations do you need to make before travelling to Africa?
One must take Yellow Fever Vaccination and Polio Vaccination (oral) which is a requirement by Indian Ministry.

When is the great migration?
Mid-June – Mid Sep (depending upon the rain pattern)

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals?
Locals are mostly into cattle rearing, but also hold white collared jobs today.
They are strongly rooted & connected to their families

What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try in Kenya?
Food: Game Meat: Ostrich/ Crocodile/ Ox etc, Kasava (Tapioka chips)
Drinks: Tusker Beer

According to you what is the best thing about going on a safari in Kenya?
Being in absolute nature, which is supremely calming. Not many digital/technological distractions. As a family, Safari Van is the best place to bond & reconnect!

“Once is never enough, you have to visit Kenya multiple times if you love the wildlife & the bush”

TOP 15 WISHLIST JOURNEYS

1. KAILASH MANASAROVAR –

An Inner Journey

Will you be called this year to visit this holiest of all holy mountains? Will you be invited by its famous resident to make the divine trek and seek his blessings?

Click here to know more.

2. ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS – Evolution, Not Revolution

No amount of study can prepare you for the absolute magic that the Galapagos Islands hold. From the world’s only seagoing marine iguanas to giant turtles to stunning boobie birds – every inch of this volcanic island bubbles with life.

Click here to know more

3. ZAMBIA WALKING SAFARI – Spectacular Wildlife Viewing in Comfort and Style

Live it up in the spectacular African bush. Enjoy terrific sightings of the magnificent wild animals of Africa in great comfort and luxury in the well-appointed lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park.

Click here to know more.

4. ANTARCTICA – The Last Continent

The ultimate travel destination. Go on an expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland
Islands to experience the fascinating and extreme part of our planet – the last pristine region of Mother Earth.

Click here to know more.

5. GLAMPING IN THE ARCTIC – Canadian Beluga Whale Watching

Somerset Island in the far Canadian North is the world’s best place to spot the beluga whale. That too, in the comfort of a well-appointed lodge strategically located at a migration site.

Click here to know more.

6. TRANS–SIBERIAN – The Last Great Train Adventure

A railway journey that covers almost one-third of the Earth’s surface. Get on board the Tsar’s Gold Train, and watch the landscape unfold from Moscow all the way to Beijing via Lake Baikal and Mongolia.

Click here to know more.

7. MOROCCO PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR – Blue your mind

If blue is your favorite color, we have just the place for you. Discover ‘The Blue Pearl of Morocco’ deep inside the Rif Mountains. And capture your blue feelings with help from an internationally acclaimed photographer mentoring you.

Click here to know more.

8. MONGOLIA PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR – Mongolia In A Snap

Go on a photo tour with an international award-winning photographer. Discover the lives of throat singers and traditional nomad families who are an intrinsic part of the distinctive Mongolian landscape.

Click here to know more.

9. NORTHERN LIGHTS – Lights, Camera, Action

Deep inside the Finnish Lapland, sleep under the stars (literally) as you plonk yourself on a bed in a glass igloo.
Resign yourself to the most sought-after travel experience in the world – catching the ever elusive Northern Lights.

Click here to know more.

10. CENTRAL EUROPE – Europe’s Beating Hearts

Imagine a trip that combines three majestic cities of central Europe – Vienna, Prague, Budapest! Stunning architecture, evolved culture, resplendent parks and gardens, exquisite cuisine and heaving with modern history. Great for kids, brilliant for adults.

Click here to know more.

11. BHUTAN – Boost Your Happiness Index

Imagine a country that measures its productivity by Gross National Happiness! This beautiful kingdom is tiny but large of heart. We have a special itinerary for senior citizens who can enjoy this exotic land in great comfort.

Click here to know more.

12. FAMILY FUN IN SWITZERLAND – Picture Postcard View In 3D

Switzerland is great fun for the whole family. Its natural beauty is incomparable, while its manmade charms are unbeatable. Go on a chocolate tour, zoom in a toboggan, and make fairy tale towns come alive.

Click here to know more.

13. CANADIAN ROCKIES – Rockies-N-Roll

When Nature shows off, she does it in Canada. Visit some of the most scenic landscapes on Planet Earth and take it all in via various modes of transport – on land, water, and air. It will leave you mesmerized.

Click here to know more.

14. JAPAN CHERRY BLOSSOM –Visit Yesterday And Tomorrow… Today

Japan is a country where the future and the past have a blissful coexistence. Absorb the unique Japanese culture,
observe their terrific attention to detail and bask in their hospitality. Compose a haiku as the sakura blossoms.

Click here to know more.

15. EGYPT – From Here To Eternity

Explore this timeless land in luxury and style. Relive its magnificent history as you visit its greatest monuments.
Take a relaxing cruise along the Nile. Dive right into the buzz of Cairo. Pause and wonder about it all.

Click here to know more.

Insider’s View on Rwanda

By Muyindo

What makes Rwanda a good travel destination?

Rwanda has a rich history and culture that makes it a good travel destination coupled with very good securing

Tell us something that every traveller should know when travelling to Rwanda?

Rwanda is an all year Rwanda destination, no time is better than the other.

Any essentials that one needs to carry when they travelling to Rwanda?

Rwanda is warm – sometimes hot but often cold in the hilly and mountainous areas. Layered clothing, a rain jacket, heavy sweater and boots are essential for higher altitude stays

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals in Rwanda?

Everything in this country has changed. People own businesses, and the majority here are tea farmers. At least everyone has income. There’s peace, and neighbors now love each other.” the regeneration of the Rwandan economy and the normality that has returned to everyday life is nothing short of remarkable given how deep were the rifts inflicted on the social fabric here.

What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try and wherein Rwanda?

• Brochettes-Meat on a stick!
• Fish being a landlocked country, Rwanda isn’t really stockpiled with fish but, being close to Lake Kivu and Lake Victoria, some fish finds its way here.
• Michopo
• Akabenz It’s a pork dish that you’ll find in a lot of local places around town but mostly in Remera
• Nyama Choma… is roasted meat in general or if it refers specifically to roasted goat meat.

Where can one get vegetarian food in Rwanda?

• Heaven Restaurant and boutique hotel
• Brochette restaurant
• Khana Khazana restaurant

Q What is a must try dish in Rwanda?
Ugali (or bugali) is a paste made from maize and water, to form a porridge-like consistency that is eaten throughout East Africa. Isombe is made from mashed cassava leaves and served with dried fish.

Q Can you please list the top 3 Indian restaurants in Rwanda
• Khana khazanA Resturant
• Zen Resturant
• Soko Resturant

Q Where should one go to get the best of the Nightlife in Rwanda?
• Black and White Club

Q Best clubs to visit in Rwanda?
• Black and White Club
• Club Next
• K club
• Legacy Lounge

Q What are things which one must buy when in Rwanda?
• Imigongo Paintings
• Clothes and Fabric
• Books
• Baskets
• Art

Q Which is the most romantic places to visit in Rwanda?
• Bisate lodge in Musanze

Q What are the local festivals which one must visit when in Rwanda?
• Kwita Izina (Gorilla Naming Ceremony)

Q The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about?
• Rwanda is the tiny heart of Africa

Q According to you what is the best thing about Rwanda is?
Rwanda is one of the Safest Countries in the World

Q How can one spend 3 days in Rwanda?
• Gorilla tracking
• Visit the genocide memorial
• Cultural visits

To know more check out our latest package

The Guest Who Walks in Zambia

By Srinivas Krishnan

There is an old jungle saying: “The tourist who walks deep into the bush understands the heart of Africa best.”
Apologies to Lee Falk and his famous comic creation, the Phantom, but we guess you understand the sentiment behind that ‘old jungle saying’. Because if you want to absorb the real wild Africa, you have to immerse yourself and be a part of the jungle, like our ancestors did for thousands of years. The only difference is that you can do it in great comfort and safety, with a dash of luxury.

It’s a different experience altogether compared to watching the bush unfold from the back of a vehicle. In a mobile walking safari, you are one with the vast sky, the distant horizons, the teeming wildlife, the lush flora, the untamed waters, the unpolluted air and the breath-taking sunsets. All your five senses are on a refined state of alertness, allowing you to take in the bush in its real state, where even seemingly insignificant sounds, smells and sights get highlighted. The flutter of a bird’s wing, the cry of an animal, the rustle in the grass, the distant sounds of water gushing, the smell of the earth… It’s like being inside a David Attenborough documentary! Sounds like an adventure, right?

The mobile walking safari in the unspoiled South Luangwa National Park in the beautiful, blessed and peaceful country of Zambia is a unique African adventure. The Park is unsullied and offers you Africa in its primal, natural form. The magic is because of the seasonal flooding that, with its ebbs and flows, makes it inaccessible by road. Consequently, there is a terrific concentration of game in this Park and it hosts some of the most varied collections of wildlife on this planet.

Centred in and around the Luangwa River, there are over 400 species of bird, large pods of hippos, as well as lion, leopard, elephant, unique zebra and giraffe species as well as the extremely endangered African wild dog. Now imagine walking through it, accompanied by a campsite that moves along with you. Of course, you will be accompanied by an experienced naturalist who will ensure you know and understand more than what you’d get by watching a documentary on the telly. You will be taught how to spot clues, hone your skills as well as use your senses to the fullest to truly discover the African bush. From tiny ants to humongous elephants, from understanding the intricacies of a bird’s nest to tracking a lion, you will experience the rawness of wild Africa the way it’s meant to be.

You must be thinking that’s fine during the day, but many of these animals are nocturnal. True. Which is why you can go on a drive in a specially customized vehicle which is equipped with a powerful spotlight – so you can witness the mighty cats and other animals in the darkness too.

Starting your trip at the ideally situated Nkwali Camp which has an excellent view of the Luangwa River, you begin your orientation of the African jungle. Your walking experience starts soon after, along the Mupamadzi river (which is a major tributary of the Luangwa), through remote parts of the park. The camps will be set and ready to welcome you from your walks through the bush. They are well-equipped with walk-in tents, with a shower under a tree while the toilet is a wooden throne with a long drop. Camping out in the open in the true African wilderness is an unmissable experience, especially at night with the vast sky and the countless stars to look up to… with the inimitable noises of the jungle providing the scene with a soundtrack!

Will the walks through the bush be strenuous? Well, if you are moderately fit, you should be able to accomplish the adventure with not much effort. Want to test it out rather easily? Try running for about 50 metres; if you can do it, then you are on! The walking safari, on the varied ground, averages about 10 km daily, but you have a staggering four hours to accomplish it. So it’s a decent pace, which allows you more time to observe and watch the real African bush.

But the walking safari is not only about giving your shoes a good work out. You get to relax and rest your weary legs at some very good spots. For instance, the Tena Tena camp, which is located in a remote section of the National Park, sits atop a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River. From the comfort of the camp, you can watch elephants, hippos and antelopes pretend as if you are not there. You will also get to spend some time at the Nsefu game camp, which was the first one to be set up in Zambia way back in the early 1950s. This one overlooks a waterhole, where you can observe game during the day and leopards in the night.

Sounds good? Come with us for the Walking Safari in Zambia – you can be our Guest Who Walks, who makes old jungle sayings come true!

Email: askus@thewanderers.co.in

Check out our package on Zambia : Zambia Package

Insiders View on South Africa

Pieter Erasmus, Johannesburg

South Africa is home to a wide array of vibrant, rich cultures, each with their own deep history. The South African landscape is as beautiful as it is diverse. It has an endless abundance of natural wonders – mountains, forests, rock formations, beaches, deserts and various other geological features.

One little-known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to South Africa?

People sometimes forget that after many years of isolation it is only in the last 20 years or so that tourism has become a viable industry in South Africa. With this South Africans are still fascinated by people from other countries and there is a real interest to talk to people and find out about their cultures and countries. This makes South Africa a very warm and welcoming place to visit.

What is a must buy when in this region?

If I had to narrow it down, then I would say wine. We produce world class quality wine and at a very affordable price. Wine culture in South Africa is very accessible and not “snobbish” so it’s easy to buy good quality wine.

What is your advice to first-time travellers?

Hmmm. Come hungry! We are notorious for our food portions so you will probably leave the country a couple of kilograms heavier.

One thing to definitely pack when travelling to this region?

Sunglasses. South Africa has one of the highest percentages of sunny days per annum of any country in the world.

One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss.

Africa = safari. So a good safari experience is not too be missed. There are many options but a proper 48-hour stay at a good private game lodge is not too be missed. Unlike some of the other African countries, safari in South Africa is accessible and the infrastructure around the lodges is excellent.

Where should anyone, travelling to this region, definitely get their picture taken?

Difficult one because there are so many spots. Most people, however, will take a picture at the Cape of Good Hope and specifically the most South-Westerly point of the African continent.

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

On a clear day from the top of Table Mountain!

The best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Nothing beats the sunset/sunrise in the African bush. Luckily staying at a safari lodge you will be out on safari during both these events so you won’t miss out!

The most romantic place to take a special someone to.

Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands is a beautiful small town that oozes romance. Lovely small boutique hotels and guesthouses and some of the best restaurants in the country to enjoy a romantic dinner.

The best place to have local food?

I love the African dinner experience at Gold Restaurant in Cape Town. More than just dinner it is an evening of African music, storytelling and food.

Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend.

For the sweet tooth, a local delegacy is called a Koeksister. Knotted dough deep fried and soaked in syrup. South Africans can have a 10-minute conversation about their favourite type of koeksister!
A favourite non-alcoholic drink is Appetizer, a sparkling apple juice which most people enjoy.

One place only the locals would know.

There are many tourist towns along the Garden Route along the main road like Mossel Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay etc. However, there are some little gems which the locals keep to themselves. Nature’s Valley is a good example, a small coastal enclave with beautiful beaches, mountains and forests.

The best pub and best place to catch up for a drink.

There are some excellent pubs in the city of Cape Town. A personal favourite is called The Village Idiot in Loop Street.
For the non-drinkers, Truth Coffee in Buitenkant Street in Cape Town is widely acclaimed to be the best coffee shop in the world! Try the flat white it’s superb.

A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see.

The annual Knysna Oyster Festival normally takes place at the end of June, beginning of July in Knysna which is outside traditional tourism season for Knysna which is towards the end of the year. Great festival with art, food and some sporting events to participate in.

The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about.

The big turnaround in downtown city of Johannesburg. For years Johannesburg City had a bad reputation around safety, but there are some amazing pockets that are re-developing at an amazing rate like the Maboneng Precinct, Braamfontein etc.
Guidebooks might tell you to avoid Johannesburg City but this is no longer the case!

Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to this region and what would that reason be?

Not really, South Africa really is all year round destination. Weather is temperate so we don’t have extreme weather or temperature fluctuations.

How would you describe South Africa in one word?

In one sentence, South Africa is Africa “Lite”. Let me explain, South Africa provides a great introduction into the continent of Africa, offering all the experiences people come to Africa for i.e. wildlife, culture etc. but wrapped up in modern, convenient travel experience.
Like a “Lite Beer”, all of the taste, less of the calories…

Pieter Erasmus,

I am 42 years old and have been in the Tourism Trade for my entire work life.

I love South Africa and I am passionate about sharing this country with the world.

Check out our latest package on South Africa

Summer Escapes This Season

Many travelers want to discover places across the world which are off the routine tourist circuit and experience magical moments drawn up from their wishlist. So, for those last minute vacation planners who are yet to decide we have chalked out some incredible vacations this summer from places as diverse as Mt. Kailash in Tibet toKalimantan in Borneo or Nubra Valley in Ladakh. From an experience as eclectic as a camping safari in Tanzania or trek through thick forests in search of the mountain gorilla. Whatever experience the traveler seeks this season, our team of wanderers should be able to come up with something truly special.

Canadian Rocky mountain adventure

get up close and personal in Canada with this self drive tour! You pick up your vehicle at Calgary and after that you go about exploring Western Canada at your own pace and time. From Calgary, drive through the magnificent Rocky Mountains to Banff. Stop when fancy takes you to admire the scenery. Explore Banff town and the National Park after which you drive down to the “Jewel of the Rockies” Lake Louise.

Check out the Canadian Rocky Mountain Adventure

Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda

Those who love nature and love to see different aspects of it – be it the wild animals or as popularly called in Africa the ‘Big 5’, the colourful birds or the elusive mountain gorilla! This tour takes you to several national parks for game viewing. And takes you on a trek through the thick rainforest in search of Mountain Gorillas.

Check out our Gorilla Tracking adventure

Taste of Borneo

the mystical jungles of Borneo. The spectacular areas of rainforest, the National Parks, sighting of the wild man from Borneo” – the Orang-utan – either in the wild or in one of the rehabilitation centres in Sabah, Sarawak or Kalimantan, be in awe at the Clearwater Cave and head out Poring Hot Springs for treetop canopy walk.

Check out our latest Borneo adventure.

Climb the Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

Challenge yourself with ‘Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro’ – the Wanderers escorted climb and camp trip! Spread over 9 days, exult in knowing the Kilimanjaro (inside – out). Africa’s tallest and earth’s highest freestanding mountain, it towers above the east African plain. Its highest summit is 5895 meters. Temperatures range from 85 degrees F to sub zero. 15,000 people attempt to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro every year and almost half fail. But, the real adventure of climbing Kilimanjaro is in making the journey—regardless of whether the summit is reached or not.

Check out the climb to Mount Kilimanjaro.

For culture lovers

If you are keen on combining Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia at one go, the Grand Indochina tour is perhaps what you are looking for. This fortnight long fixed date departure covers the best of the 3 countries.

Salamanca and Portugal tour

See the best of Portugal with its best of monuments, beautiful beaches, churches and diverse architecture. Start your trip at Avila, a world heritage city before moving on to Salamanca, known for its 2 cathedrals. Visit the headquarters of one of Europe’s oldest Universities in Coimbra. Attend a mass at the Shrine of the Virgin of Fatima at Fatima.

Don’t miss the Spanish Exotica

Spain with its different traditions and culture, glorious art and architecture and friendly people makes for a delightful experience. Starting with Madrid, the vibrant capital, home to bull fighting. Start your introduction to the history of this country with a city tour and visit to Toledo, the capital of medieval Spain until 1560, Cordoba, one of the most interesting cities in Andalusia. Find out more about this trip!

India escapes this summer:

If jungles, high mountains and unique culture excite you, to visit North East India with time spent in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam is the perfect way of unwinding.

Explore the heritage village of Pragspur. Experience the mysticism of Jwalamukhi Temple and revel in the beautiful Kangra paintings in an old temple in Dada Siba”. Picnic by the river Beas and lunch at quaint dhabha which offer delectable North Indian cuisine. Explore the picture perfect retreat of Dharamshala – Dalai Lama’s abode and for nature lovers, visit the Kalatope Wildlife Sanctuary, all in our 9 Days Western Himachal package.

Wanderers Leh Ladakh Adventure

The highlight of 11 days passage to Leh tour starting from Delhi is the spectacular 485km journey from Manali to Leh crossing some of the highest passes in the world. Rohtang, Baralacha, LachlungLa and TanglangLa. Passes that are closed during the winter months open for a brief while during the summer months of June to September. It is arguably the most beautiful stretch of road in the Indian Himalayas!

Check out our exciting Ladakh package.

Wanderers Trip of a lifetime: Kailash Yatra

Traveling overland from Kathmandu (Nepal) on this 14 day tour to Mt.Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, which lies in the Southwestern part of Tibet, is an incredible experience. It is an epic pilgrimage to the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva, that is considered the most sacred and revered pilgrimage for Hindus, Jains and Buddhists alike. En route you can see the world’s highest mountains, travel on the world’s highest plain, meet nomadic Tibetan pilgrims and walk amidst burning butter lamps and chanting monks of Tibet’s ancient and legendary Buddhist monasteries. The numbing cold at night, the harsh sun during the day, the bitter winds, the looming solitude and the everlasting dust are a constant companion.

We have just announced our 14 day trip over the Tibetan plateau to Mt Kailash and Lake Manasarovar via Kathmandu. Dep is on 27 July, 2012. We plan to take up to 16 people on this trip. The roads are much better these days as the highway to Kailash is mostly metalled, unlike in the past.

Click hereto check out the Kailash Yatra

Wanderers Travel Diaries:

Walk in the Clouds- Sikkim, by Shubendu Banerjee

Shubendu Banerjee is a passionate traveler. From the misty mountains of Sikkim to the dense jungles of Bandipur in Karnataka he has traveled to give a free reign to his adventurous spirit. Now, settled in Bangalore with his wife and son he continues to wander into unknown territories as often as his job allows him to. Read More

Be a Guest Author – Be the Wanderer of the Month. If you’ve got an idea for a story to share, then write on – share your photos/videos: we would love to feature your work in our bi monthly newsletter.

Insiders view on Zanzibar

The Wanderers in conversation with Niall Anderson

Everything the guide books or tourism websites won’t tell you about the place.

One little known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is home to the most endangered antelope in Africa – Ader’s Duiker.

They number less than 500 on the planet, and can be found in Jozani Forest and on Mnemba Island.

What is a must buy when in Zanzibar?

Kikois – the traditional and colourful, Zanzibari multi-purpose item of clothing that can be worn as a wrap, a scarf, head dress, or used simply as a blanket or throw.

One take-away after a visit to Zanzibar..

You will never see whiter sand or an ocean so turquoise blue!

What is your advice to first time travellers?

Bring lots of sunscreen!

One thing to definitely pack when travelling to…

Swimming costume…

One activity anyone travelling to Zanzibar should not miss!

A sunset Dhow cruise across the ocean.

Where should anyone, travelling to Zanzibar, definitely get their picture taken?

On a local Dhow sailing across the ocean

On the beach at Mnemba Island

Under water on the Mnemba house reef

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

The best place to get a panoramic photo is off a local Dhow sailing in the ocean, looking back at Zanzibar or Mnemba Island.

Best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Sipping a cocktail on the beach at Mnemba Island!

Most romantic place to take a special someone to.

Mnemba Island – your private island!

Best place in Zanzibar to have local food?

Foradhani garden in Stone Town

Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend?

Zanzibar Curry and a dawa!

A local cocktail made of vodka, lime and honey, ‘dawa’ means medicine, or poison in Swahili – Depends how much you drink!

One place only the locals would know.

Jozani Forest!

Zanzibar’s only national park, search for rare birds, Red Colobus monkey, Ader’s Duiker and Suni here.

The best pub and best place to catch up for a drink?

Sundowners with live music at Livingstone, or on the roof at Maru Maru hotel, both in Stone Town.

A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see?

Sauti Busara, an annual African music festival, which takes place in historic Stone Town, attracting artists from all over the world. It had been dubbed the ‘friendliest festival on the planet’.

The things guide books will not tell anyone about Zanzibar?

The best samosas and biryani in East Africa can be bought at Passing Show, a local restaurant near Zanzibar port in Stone Town.

Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to Zanzibar and what would that reason be?

April & May, as this is the rainy season in Zanzibar

In one sentence, Zanzibar is the exotic spice island.

Niall Anderson is the Regional Director for Tanzania with &Beyond, which he joined six years ago. Settled in Arusha, Niall takes on exciting challenges in leading teams around Tanzania.

Check out our package on Tanzania

”Insiders view on Botswana & Namibia”

Q’s	Botswana	Namibia
I) One little known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to Namibia/Botswana.	The Okavango ‘Delta’ is in fact an ‘Alluvial Fan’ as it does not flow out into an ocean	Namibia has the highest concentration of Cheetah (2000-3000) in the World, as well as the highest sand dune (980ft)
ii) What is a must buy when in Namibia/Botswana?	Grass woven basket or ostrich-egg jewelry	Wood-carvings, diamonds and semi-precious stones (leather shoes are also a great find)
iii)One take-away after a visit to Namibia/Botswana?	The diversity in landscape, wildlife and culture makes for a great travel circuit	The variety in topography that makes up Namibia’s landscape is breathtaking to say the least!
iv) What is your advice to first time travellers?	Do not try to squeeze as many places/destinations in a short space of time, rather enjoy a few places for longer (i.e. do not stay shorter than 3 nights at any destination)
v) One thing to definitely pack when travelling to Namibia/Botswana.	Walking shoes & binoculars	Sun cream, hat and scorpion-viewer torch
vi) One activity anyone travelling to Namibia/Botswana should not miss..	Walking, motor boat and mokoro (in the Delta)	Dune climbing, hot air ballooning & quad biking through the dunes. Also the scenic flights that fly over the Skeleton Coast is a must!
vii) Where should anyone, travelling to Namibia/Botswana, definitely get their picture taken.	In the Okavango Delta, overlooking the crystal clear channels	Sossusvlei in the Namib-Naukluft National Park
viii) Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?	Makgadigadi Pans	Fish River Canyon and the Namib Desert Dunes
ix) Best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?	Sunrise overlooking a savanna or floodplain with a hot chocolate and amarula in hand. Sunset without a doubt is best enjoyed either on a boat in the Okavango Delta/Chobe River, or on one of the many islands in the Okavango Delta.	Sunrise from the top of a dune, and Sunset sitting on the beach as the sun sets over the Atlantic ocean (with a gin & tonic in hand)
x) Most romantic place to take a special someone to.	Private bush dinner in the Okavango Delta!	Request a private dinner when staying in Sossusvlei, either on a dune or in a fairy circle surrounded by lanterns
xi) Best place to have local food?	Choice Restaurant in Maun is best for local cuisine. If you want to eat a lovely lunch, try Hilary’s Coffee Shop and for dinner we recommend Sports Bar or Thamalakani River Lodge	The Tug Restaurant on the beach in Swakopmund has amazing food and is very popular amongst the locals! We also highly recommend Joe’s Beerhouse in Windhoek.
xii)Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend.	If you can get your hands on Marula Beer made by the locals, this is amazing! Make sure you do not leave Botswana without trying Seswaa (ground goat or beef), Mopani Worms and Leboa (large fleshy mushrooms that grow on termite mounds during the rains)	Namibia is well known for its locally brewed beers. On the food front, we recommend trying the German dishes, potjie-kos (stew made in cast-iron pot) as well as locally grown Calamata Olives and Oysters!
xiii) One place only the locals would know.	If you boat from Maun into the Okavango Delta, there is amazing swimming and picnic spots along the Boro River	Gaia is a natural spring in Damaraland. Nearby there is also a petrified forest to be seen. Very view guides know about these natural occurrences…
xiv)The best pub and best place to catch up for a drink..	River Lodge and Sports Bar in Maun	Tiger Reef Beach Bar in Swakopmund
xv) A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see	Rock Festival in December held in Maun	Octoberfest (Beer fest) and WIKA (Windhoek Carnival) both held in Windhoek
xvi)The things guide books will not tell anyone about Namibia/Botswana?	Botswana hosts the 2nd largest Zebra Migration starting in Northern parts of Botswana (Linyanti/Chobe) through to Savute Marsh/Mababe Depression at the start/before of the rainy season. They then move onto the Makgadikgadi Pans, and after the rains they head back North.	Lions, Brown Hyena and Jackal can sometimes be seen strolling along the beaches of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. If you are up for a challenge, go in search of the desert-dwelling Elephants in the North-West of Namibia!
xvii) Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to Namibia/Botswana and what would that reason be?	October is not a good month to travel to Botswana, it is incredibly hot! Very little vegetation protecting you from the harsh sun.	November – February is very hot in Namibia. These months also receive rain which means wildlife in areas such as Etosha scatter
xix) In one sentence, Namibia/Botswana is.	Botswana is a serious adventure, the landscape goes from dry pans to floodplains, all hosting magnificent people to meet wildlife to see!	Namibia will not fail to impress with its magical desert landscape paired with great culture

Meet Grant Oliver & Dimari Oliver:

Grant Oliver: Grant Oliver is the Botswana Expeditions and Under Canvas General Manager with &Beyond. In the past, Grant has played provincial Rugby in South Africa and Italy and is well known for his adventurous nature.

Dimari Oliver: Dimari Oliver is Botswana Expedition and Under Canvas Operations Manager with &Beyond. She is married to Grant with two little ones and is well known for executing all of Grant’s plans…

Insiders view Tanzania

The Wanderers in conversation with Niall Anderson

Everything the guide books or tourism websites won’t tell you about the place

One little known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to Tanzania

There are more than 120 different tribes in Tanzania!

What is a must buy when in Tanzania?

Tanzanite – this gem is rarer than Diamonds and is only found in Tanzania.

One take-away after a visit to Tanzania

You will leave wanting to return…

What is your advice to first time travellers?

Patience is a fantastic trait to bring with you to Tanzania. It will assist you in your travels and surprise you on safari.

One thing to definitely pack when travelling to Tanzania.

A good sense of humour, this will stand you in good stead with the Local Tanzanian people and will ensure you have a lot of fun.

One activity anyone travelling to Tanzania should not miss.

Hot air ballooning over the Serengeti!

Where should anyone, travelling to Tanzania, definitely get their picture taken?

The Clock Tower in Arusha – It is said to be equidistant between London and Cape Town and a famous stopping place for early adventurers. Apart from the tower, you can get your picture taken on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, in the vast plains of the Serengeti and at the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro.

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

From a hot air balloon while floating over the Serengeti

On the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater

Half way up Kilimanjaro

Mto Wa Mbu – looking back at the great rift valley

Best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

The &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas, in close proximity to the Great Wildebeest Migration

Most romantic place to take a special someone to..

The &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, overlooking the world famous Ngorongoro Crater

Which is the best place to have local food?

Nicks Pub, Chicken on a bonnet or the Lively Lady in Arusha.

Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend..

Nyam Chom and Ugali with a Serengeti Beer!

One place only the locals would know..

A (very) special visit to the Hadza Tribe, one of the smallest tribes in Tanzania

A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see..

A Maasai Graduation ceremony!

Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to Tanzania and what would that reason be?

Tanzania is a year round destination – June and July are the busiest months of the year on the tourist calendar as they are fantastic months to visit Tanzania. However, the rest of the year is incredibly special too.

In one sentence, Tanzania is.. Is the best African country to visit for a Safari…

Niall Anderson is the Regional Director for Tanzania with &Beyond, which it joined six years ago. Settled in Arusha, Niall takes on exciting challenges in leading teams in Tanzania

Check out our latest package on Tanzania

6 reasons to visit Tanzania

By Meenakshi Shankar

Behold the beauty – The King of the Jungle

See the Great wildbeest Migration in the Serengeti

Take off at dawn : To see Nature’s Greatest Show

The great annual Serengeti National Park migration is certainly a top highlight of destination Tanzania. This is one of the most amazing wildlife spectacles on earth involving millions of animals migrating from the Masai Mara in Kenya down to the Serengeti in Tanzania in pursuit of sweet grass and rain. The best place to experience this natural event would be on the southern plains from December to March during birthing season.

Take a hot air balloon in the Serengeti and enjoy the spectacular views on the game

Probably one of the most beautiful balloon flights in the world and an ultimate safari experience. Take off at dawn – rising as the sun rises and floating in whichever direction the winds of the morning take you. The Balloon Safari is an unique opportunity for an adventure and unique perspective over outstanding quintessentially African landscapes.

Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro

Conquering the cold and the altitude to make it to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most amazing feelings and is definitly a once in a lifetime experience. Not only is this the highest peak on the African continent, it is also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, rising in breathtaking isolation from the surrounding coastal scrubland – elevation around 900 meters – to an imperious 5,895 meters (19,336 feet). Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most accessible high summits, a beacon for visitors around the world.

Dive in Mafia and discover some of the richest reefs in the world.

Mafia Island is a world class diving destination offering an incredible marine life with an unparalleled diversity of hard and soft corals as well as a superb variety of tropical fish. Besides being a paradise for divers, Mafia Island is the ideal stop-over to relax after a safari. This tropical gem remains a well-kept secret offering secluded and unspoiled beaches as well as a wide range of water sports.

Go chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park

Mahale Mountains National Park allows visitors to track chimps on foot. The chimpanzees are totally wild, but absolutely accessible. The habituated chimpanzees are easily tracked by the skilled guides and trackers, and most visitors are guaranteed to see them during forest hikes. The walking can be long, but is not over-strenuous. The chimps ignore the intrusion and you will achieve an intimate insight into their daily life, where the mood varies from the Zen-like calm of family life to sexual politics and the high-tension power struggles of the dominant males.

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