Uyaphi.com Africa Travel Newsletter

“ ...We have this morning arrived safely at home following the most amazing trip in Namibia - 'the holiday of a lifetime' in the words of my son! I have to say that you hit the nail on the head in EVERY respect and planned the most brilliant trip for us....Namibia is a wonderful country, full of really amazing people and countryside, and the memories will stay with us for many years to come. I know that we will be talking about this trip, and all the places we stayed with all of our friends, and I will happily recommend you and Uyaphi as the company to contact. ...”

Patrick (United Kingdom)

The festive season is approaching at a rapid rate and we wish you all the compliments of the season.

In this newsletter we pay a visit to some of South Africa’s lesser-known attractions – this is a vast country and 11 official languages testify to the diversity that you will encounter with any visit. There are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered by those adventurous enough to head off the well–trodden tourist circuit.

The South African Rand’s loss of 25% of its value against the dollar in recent weeks presents an ideal opportunity for travelers who dream of a trip to Africa. South Africa is well known for its good tourist infrastructure and you can now afford to visit quality establishments at a fraction of what they would have cost just a short while ago. Book your trip of a lifetime now and take advantage of this excellent opportunity!

This month’s featured activity is birding: “twitchers” (as birders are affectionately named) are well advised to add Africa to their birding to–do list and we bring you our recommendations of where to start. We also take a closer look at Kenya lodges, back in the spotlight with the recent success of Barack Obama in the US elections. On the corporate side of things we feature the conference section on Uyaphi.com.

Happy Reading and Travel Safe over the Festive Season!

Regards,
The Uyaphi.com Team

This month we focus on South Africa since it represents such value for money at current exchange rates. South Africa is a vast country with an abundance of natural wonders and attractions for the visitor, so you can return time and again and never have to see the same place twice! This time we head off the beaten track and feature some of the destinations often overshadowed by ever–popular destinations like Cape Town and Kruger National Park. Here are some of the hidden gems:

1. North West Province
Sun City
Sun City is a vast complex in the rugged North West Province that promises no end of fun for the whole family. It boasts four world–class hotels including the magnificent and romantic Palace of the Lost City, together with a world-class casino, sizzling entertainment, one of the world's most exciting water parks and a golf course well known on the international circuit. Neighbouring Pilansberg Game Reserve promises malaria-free game viewing including the Big 5.

2. Limpopo
The Waterberg
Just two hours drive north of Johannesburg, the malaria–free Waterberg Mountains offer 15,000 square kilometres of spectacular vistas and scenic valleys. This unspoiled and little known corner of Africa once attracted adventurers, gunrunners, outlaws, runaways and hardy pioneers of old, and was recently declared a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations. There’s a wealth of quality accommodation and prime game-spotting opportunities to be had.

3. Eastern Cape
Graaf Reneit and the Great Karoo
Graaf Reneit is an area steeped in frontier history and is one of the best-preserved historic towns in South Africa. Nearby, the towering dolerite columns of the Valley of Desolation offer spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside. The artists’ hamlet of Nieu Bethesda, famous for the “outsider art” of the Owl House, is worth a detour. This is an area where time stands still.

4. Northern Cape
Namaqualand
Namaqualand is famous for its miracle of nature that sees the desert landscape transformed into a springtime wonderland of carpets of colourful wildflowers each year. The northern border is washed by one of the longest rivers on the African continent, the Orange River. Augrabies Falls, Africa’s second largest waterfall is to be found here. This is also diamond country and the Big Hole in Kimberley is a 500 metre wide 240 metre deep hole that was dug manually with picks and shovels by diamond prospectors in the diamond rush of over a century ago.

Africa is an amazing continent for birdwatching. It lies on the migration route of birds from both the northern and the southern hemispheres, while the temperate climate around the equator ensures that there are ideal living conditions for the 2,250 recorded species, of which about 1,500 are found nowhere else on earth. It was a difficult choice, but we bring you our recommended destinations for birders keen to taste the profusion of African birdlife for themselves.

Kenya
The Great Rift Valley and the Rift Valley lakes of Kenya in particular, offer some of the finest conditions for birdwatching. Lake Nakuru with its alkaline waters is famous for the mass of Lesser Flamingoes that gather around the lake shore in their thousands, together with scores of Greater Flamingoes, Sacred Ibis and Fish Eagles. The rest of Kenya offers a wealth of habitats and there are over 1,000 species of birds to be seen including 8 endemics and 25 endangered species. October to April sees migrants arriving from the North America in droves so this is a good time to travel. It is estimated that 6 billion birds make the migration journey each year.
Kenya Birding Safari

South Africa
While South Africa’s array of habitats and easy access ensure plenty of opportunities for twitchers, the Kruger National Park in the north of the country is considered the top spot for birders. The remote northern reaches of the Park are a biodiversity hotspot and not as busy as the rest of the Park. This is an ideal destination for self-drivers looking to see target species such as Mashona Hyliota, Bohm's Spinetail, Dickinson's Kestrel and Pel's Fishing Owl.
Birding Selfdrive Accommodation

Tanzania
Tanzania’s northern circuit is most famous for its mass migration of herbivores, but twitchers will be equally satisfied with the region. The circuit takes you through vast plains of the Serengeti to the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro and along to the Indian Ocean coastline. Tanzania boasts 21 endemic bird species and 30 endangered species; look out for rare Petrels, Cape Gannet, Shoebill, endemic Green Pigeon, Yellow-collared Lovebird, Sunbirds and the endangered Usambara Weaver.
Tanzania Birding Safari

Uganda
Uganda is a lush country washed by the Nile River with a variety of habitats ranging from 650m to over 5,000m above sea level. There are 24 Albertine Rift endemic species to be found here including the globally threatened African Green Broadbill and Shelley's Crimsonwing, plus others such as Kivu Ground-thrush, Dwarf Honeyguide, Lagden's Bush-shrike and Chapin's Flycatcher.
Uganda Birding Safari

The recent US election of Barack Obama as the country’s future president has sparked renewed interest in Kenya as a destination. Obama’s father hails from Kenya and the visitor numbers flocking to the country as a result is being dubbed the “Obamaboom”.

It is in Kenya where the luxury safari first began, and to this day visitors can be assured of good quality accommodation offerings that cater to your every whim. For the ultimate Safari experience there are plenty of luxury camp offerings where you do not need to sacrifice any comforts just because you’re on Safari.

At the top end are the likes of Masai Mara favourites such as Cottars 1920s Camp that represents a return to the true essence of ‘Safari’: the romance of Africa, professional guiding, adventure and elegance. The Camp is situated in an exclusive concession away from the crowds.

Governors’ Camp is situated on the banks of the Mara River in the west of the Masai Mara Game Reserve. It offers incredible views over the Mara plains and its wildlife. Governors' Private Camp can be booked by individual clients, families, or small parties looking for the ultimate exclusivity of a private safari camp.

Elsa's Kopje is a hidden gem in the Meru National Park. It is named after Elsa, the lioness made famous by George and Joy Adamson in the film 'Born Free', who was released into the wild here.

But a Kenyan Safari experience need not cost the equivalent of the national debt of a small African country. There are plenty of value-for-money options that allow you to enjoy the adventure of Kenya for yourself. There is a very well developed tourism industry catering to every whim, so speak to our travel consultants to tailor-make an itinerary especially for you.

Mara Sarova Game Camp captures the true spirit of the Kenya in the heart of the Masai Mara. Highlight of you stay will definitely be the breathtaking view of the plains from the lofty heights of a hot air balloon.

Amboseli Sopa Lodge is nestled in woodlands in the foothills of Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro. Situated in the Amboseli National Reserve, the lodge offers unrivalled views of Kilimanjaro’s snow clad peaks, superb game viewing or cultural interaction with the resident Masai.

Uyaphi’s Charl Grobler has recently returned from a visit to Kenya. Charl has experience as a travel guide in the region and he gives us his thoughts on the changes that have occurred in the country since his last visit.
Click here to read Charl's blog entry with pics

The success of Cape Town International Convention Centre has focused special attention on conferencing opportunities on the African continent. There are plenty of options for conference venues offering state-of-the-art facilities with the added benefits of spectacular natural settings and a plethora of add-on activities available.

Over the years Uypahi has been involved in the organisation of large corporate conferences in exotic destinations everywhere from Victoria Falls to Ethiopia. In the past months we have extended our portfolio of exotic conference and corporate offerings with a dedicated section on Uyaphi.com.

Golf Conference Venues
There are many world-class golf courses on the continent that also offer first class conference facilities and accommodation. So, it’s brainstorming in the morning and a round of golf in the afternoon: quite possibly the ideal business break!

Beach Conference Venues
There are many perfect locations, from the coastal strip of Mombassa to the inland Rift Valley lakes like Lake Malawi, from the stark beauty of Swapokmund in Namibia to the lush tropical beauty of Natal, Mozambique or the culturally sensuous island of Zanzibar.

Bush Conference Venues
There is a wide range of venues and locations in 11 African countries for large corporate functions to small and intimate lodges for that perfect brainstorming session. Locations are quiet and private. Game drives or wilderness walks are the perfect antidote to a strenuous conferencing session and encourage team building.

Conferencing Services
Visit our conference section for the range of additional services such as Pre and Post Safaris, Incentive Travel, Team building and Event Coordination.

Edition: Nov/Dec 2008 In this newsletter: • South Africa: The Best of the Rest • The Best of Birding in Africa • Kenya: Back to the Roots of the African Safari (and Barack Obama) • Uyaphi News: Conference Pages Go Live • Celebrate USA's Elections with us in East Africa British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa 2009 2-0-1-0 Soccer Event Top 5 Reasons to book with Uyaphi.com 1) Our Africa travel consultants have the knowledge and expertise in all the products and destinations we offer. 2) We are accredited by SATSA and ATTA. 3) With our offices based in Cape Town, South Africa, should a problem arise, we will be able to respond to the relative issue in the same time zone as you are located. We are contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 4) Since all products and services are pre–paid through Uyaphi.com you are never surprised with any additional costs, with this in mind you can budget properly for your Africa safari. 5) We do not charge Visa & Mastercard surcharges.	! ARCHIVED NEWSLETTER ! You are viewing an ARCHIVED Newsletter which may contain information, links, offers or promotions that are no longer valid. Please bear this in mind as you peruse this newsletter. CLICK HERE TO SEND AN ENQUIRY • SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER « BACK TO NEWSLETTER INDEX Uyaphi.com’s service shines bright as the African Sun... “ ...We have this morning arrived safely at home following the most amazing trip in Namibia - 'the holiday of a lifetime' in the words of my son! I have to say that you hit the nail on the head in EVERY respect and planned the most brilliant trip for us....Namibia is a wonderful country, full of really amazing people and countryside, and the memories will stay with us for many years to come. I know that we will be talking about this trip, and all the places we stayed with all of our friends, and I will happily recommend you and Uyaphi as the company to contact. ...” Patrick (United Kingdom) The festive season is approaching at a rapid rate and we wish you all the compliments of the season. In this newsletter we pay a visit to some of South Africa’s lesser-known attractions – this is a vast country and 11 official languages testify to the diversity that you will encounter with any visit. There are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered by those adventurous enough to head off the well–trodden tourist circuit. The South African Rand’s loss of 25% of its value against the dollar in recent weeks presents an ideal opportunity for travelers who dream of a trip to Africa. South Africa is well known for its good tourist infrastructure and you can now afford to visit quality establishments at a fraction of what they would have cost just a short while ago. Book your trip of a lifetime now and take advantage of this excellent opportunity! This month’s featured activity is birding: “twitchers” (as birders are affectionately named) are well advised to add Africa to their birding to–do list and we bring you our recommendations of where to start. We also take a closer look at Kenya lodges, back in the spotlight with the recent success of Barack Obama in the US elections. On the corporate side of things we feature the conference section on Uyaphi.com. Happy Reading and Travel Safe over the Festive Season! Regards, The Uyaphi.com Team South Africa : The Best of the Rest This month we focus on South Africa since it represents such value for money at current exchange rates. South Africa is a vast country with an abundance of natural wonders and attractions for the visitor, so you can return time and again and never have to see the same place twice! This time we head off the beaten track and feature some of the destinations often overshadowed by ever–popular destinations like Cape Town and Kruger National Park. Here are some of the hidden gems: 1. North West Province Sun City Sun City is a vast complex in the rugged North West Province that promises no end of fun for the whole family. It boasts four world–class hotels including the magnificent and romantic Palace of the Lost City, together with a world-class casino, sizzling entertainment, one of the world's most exciting water parks and a golf course well known on the international circuit. Neighbouring Pilansberg Game Reserve promises malaria-free game viewing including the Big 5. 2. Limpopo The Waterberg Just two hours drive north of Johannesburg, the malaria–free Waterberg Mountains offer 15,000 square kilometres of spectacular vistas and scenic valleys. This unspoiled and little known corner of Africa once attracted adventurers, gunrunners, outlaws, runaways and hardy pioneers of old, and was recently declared a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations. There’s a wealth of quality accommodation and prime game-spotting opportunities to be had. 3. Eastern Cape Graaf Reneit and the Great Karoo Graaf Reneit is an area steeped in frontier history and is one of the best-preserved historic towns in South Africa. Nearby, the towering dolerite columns of the Valley of Desolation offer spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside. The artists’ hamlet of Nieu Bethesda, famous for the “outsider art” of the Owl House, is worth a detour. This is an area where time stands still. 4. Northern Cape Namaqualand Namaqualand is famous for its miracle of nature that sees the desert landscape transformed into a springtime wonderland of carpets of colourful wildflowers each year. The northern border is washed by one of the longest rivers on the African continent, the Orange River. Augrabies Falls, Africa’s second largest waterfall is to be found here. This is also diamond country and the Big Hole in Kimberley is a 500 metre wide 240 metre deep hole that was dug manually with picks and shovels by diamond prospectors in the diamond rush of over a century ago. The Best of Birding in Africa Africa is an amazing continent for birdwatching. It lies on the migration route of birds from both the northern and the southern hemispheres, while the temperate climate around the equator ensures that there are ideal living conditions for the 2,250 recorded species, of which about 1,500 are found nowhere else on earth. It was a difficult choice, but we bring you our recommended destinations for birders keen to taste the profusion of African birdlife for themselves. Kenya The Great Rift Valley and the Rift Valley lakes of Kenya in particular, offer some of the finest conditions for birdwatching. Lake Nakuru with its alkaline waters is famous for the mass of Lesser Flamingoes that gather around the lake shore in their thousands, together with scores of Greater Flamingoes, Sacred Ibis and Fish Eagles. The rest of Kenya offers a wealth of habitats and there are over 1,000 species of birds to be seen including 8 endemics and 25 endangered species. October to April sees migrants arriving from the North America in droves so this is a good time to travel. It is estimated that 6 billion birds make the migration journey each year. Kenya Birding Safari South Africa While South Africa’s array of habitats and easy access ensure plenty of opportunities for twitchers, the Kruger National Park in the north of the country is considered the top spot for birders. The remote northern reaches of the Park are a biodiversity hotspot and not as busy as the rest of the Park. This is an ideal destination for self-drivers looking to see target species such as Mashona Hyliota, Bohm's Spinetail, Dickinson's Kestrel and Pel's Fishing Owl. Birding Selfdrive Accommodation Tanzania Tanzania’s northern circuit is most famous for its mass migration of herbivores, but twitchers will be equally satisfied with the region. The circuit takes you through vast plains of the Serengeti to the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro and along to the Indian Ocean coastline. Tanzania boasts 21 endemic bird species and 30 endangered species; look out for rare Petrels, Cape Gannet, Shoebill, endemic Green Pigeon, Yellow-collared Lovebird, Sunbirds and the endangered Usambara Weaver. Tanzania Birding Safari Uganda Uganda is a lush country washed by the Nile River with a variety of habitats ranging from 650m to over 5,000m above sea level. There are 24 Albertine Rift endemic species to be found here including the globally threatened African Green Broadbill and Shelley's Crimsonwing, plus others such as Kivu Ground-thrush, Dwarf Honeyguide, Lagden's Bush-shrike and Chapin's Flycatcher. Uganda Birding Safari Kenya: Back to the Roots of the African Safari (and Barack Obama) The recent US election of Barack Obama as the country’s future president has sparked renewed interest in Kenya as a destination. Obama’s father hails from Kenya and the visitor numbers flocking to the country as a result is being dubbed the “Obamaboom”. It is in Kenya where the luxury safari first began, and to this day visitors can be assured of good quality accommodation offerings that cater to your every whim. For the ultimate Safari experience there are plenty of luxury camp offerings where you do not need to sacrifice any comforts just because you’re on Safari. At the top end are the likes of Masai Mara favourites such as Cottars 1920s Camp that represents a return to the true essence of ‘Safari’: the romance of Africa, professional guiding, adventure and elegance. The Camp is situated in an exclusive concession away from the crowds. Governors’ Camp is situated on the banks of the Mara River in the west of the Masai Mara Game Reserve. It offers incredible views over the Mara plains and its wildlife. Governors' Private Camp can be booked by individual clients, families, or small parties looking for the ultimate exclusivity of a private safari camp. Elsa's Kopje is a hidden gem in the Meru National Park. It is named after Elsa, the lioness made famous by George and Joy Adamson in the film 'Born Free', who was released into the wild here. But a Kenyan Safari experience need not cost the equivalent of the national debt of a small African country. There are plenty of value-for-money options that allow you to enjoy the adventure of Kenya for yourself. There is a very well developed tourism industry catering to every whim, so speak to our travel consultants to tailor-make an itinerary especially for you. Mara Sarova Game Camp captures the true spirit of the Kenya in the heart of the Masai Mara. Highlight of you stay will definitely be the breathtaking view of the plains from the lofty heights of a hot air balloon. Amboseli Sopa Lodge is nestled in woodlands in the foothills of Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro. Situated in the Amboseli National Reserve, the lodge offers unrivalled views of Kilimanjaro’s snow clad peaks, superb game viewing or cultural interaction with the resident Masai. Uyaphi’s Charl Grobler has recently returned from a visit to Kenya. Charl has experience as a travel guide in the region and he gives us his thoughts on the changes that have occurred in the country since his last visit. Click here to read Charl's blog entry with pics Uyaphi News: Conference Pages Go Live The success of Cape Town International Convention Centre has focused special attention on conferencing opportunities on the African continent. There are plenty of options for conference venues offering state-of-the-art facilities with the added benefits of spectacular natural settings and a plethora of add-on activities available. Over the years Uypahi has been involved in the organisation of large corporate conferences in exotic destinations everywhere from Victoria Falls to Ethiopia. In the past months we have extended our portfolio of exotic conference and corporate offerings with a dedicated section on Uyaphi.com. Golf Conference Venues There are many world-class golf courses on the continent that also offer first class conference facilities and accommodation. So, it’s brainstorming in the morning and a round of golf in the afternoon: quite possibly the ideal business break! Beach Conference Venues There are many perfect locations, from the coastal strip of Mombassa to the inland Rift Valley lakes like Lake Malawi, from the stark beauty of Swapokmund in Namibia to the lush tropical beauty of Natal, Mozambique or the culturally sensuous island of Zanzibar. Bush Conference Venues There is a wide range of venues and locations in 11 African countries for large corporate functions to small and intimate lodges for that perfect brainstorming session. Locations are quiet and private. Game drives or wilderness walks are the perfect antidote to a strenuous conferencing session and encourage team building. Conferencing Services Visit our conference section for the range of additional services such as Pre and Post Safaris, Incentive Travel, Team building and Event Coordination. Featured Special: Celebrate USA's Election with us in East Africa To celebrate the election of Barack Obama in the recent US elections and his East African roots, Uyaphi.com is offering discounted departures for the Classic Kenya Safari and the Tanzania Simba Safari. Speak to our travel consultants to take advantage of this special offer. View this East Africa safari offer
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Uyaphi.com Africa Travel Newsletter

South Africa : The Best of the Rest

The Best of Birding in Africa

Kenya: Back to the Roots of the African Safari (and Barack Obama)

Uyaphi News: Conference Pages Go Live

Featured Special: Celebrate USA's Election with us in East Africa

Kenya: Back to the Roots of the African Safari
(and Barack Obama)

Featured Special:
Celebrate USA's Election with us in East Africa