
Africa Safari And Travel Blog
The latest news, reviews, photographs, videos as well as specials and deals for all aspects of travel in Africa. The team at Uyaphi will strive to add as much content here over the next few years that will make research your safari to Africa that much easier.
It is here on this page where one will find all the latest blog posts by us here at Uyaphi.com, ranging from general news and safari/ lodge reviews.
- Private Game Lodges Near Kruger National ParkWritten By Uyaphi.com
A trip to Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa is an unparalleled experience, allowing visitors to observe some of the world's most spectacular wildlife in their natural habitat.
With access to exclusive areas of the park, luxurious accommodations, expert guides and personalised service, these private game lodges provide guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore and enjoy the African wilderness.
.................. - Day Tours In BotswanaWritten By Uyaphi.com
The top 10 day tours in Botswana. Experience flights, mokoro and boating excursions over and on the Okavango, game drive safaris in the Moremi and Chobe, boat cruises on the Chobe River and even trips to Victoria Falls and to watch the Kalahari Meerkats.
The perfect day tour options for anyone with a few hours or a day free.
.................. - 10 Places To Visit In BotswanaWritten By Uyaphi.com
10 Places To Visit, our travel experts have shared their favourite destinations and places to visit in the country.
Explore the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park, to mention a few. Add this stunning wildlife destination to your bucket list for a unique African travel experience!
.................. - Best Okavango Delta Safari HolidaysWritten By Uyaphi.com
Okavango safaris are suitable for all budgets and interests, and we can tailor-make a trip to suit your needs.
So whether you're looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing and romantic getaway, then the Okavango is the perfect choice for those interested in Botswana as the ultimate travel experience.
.................. - 10 Best Serengeti Safari HolidaysWritten By Uyaphi.com
10 Of the best safari packages where one gets to explore, witness and photograph some of Africa's best wildlife sightings in one of Africa's top National Parks, The Serengeti.
Visiting the Serengeti National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see, photograph and experience some of Africa's best wildlife sightings.
.................. - Best Tanzania Safari RoutesWritten By Uyaphi.com
Introducing the best safari Routes and safari itineraries! Explore the Serengeti's vast plains, marvel at the wildlife in the Ngorongoro Crater, and much more.
With us, you'll have everything taken care of, from planning to execution - so all you need to do is relax and enjoy your adventure.
.................. - The Best Exclusive Use Villas In BotswanaWritten By Uyaphi.com
If you're looking for the most exclusive, luxurious experience in Botswana, look no further than these top-of-the-line private villas.
World-class cuisine, unparalleled views and locations, and unmatched professional guiding and service will make your stay unforgettable.
Plus, you'll have some of the best game viewing experiences on your doorstep!
.................. - The Ultimate Tanzania Bucket ListWritten By Uyaphi.com
Are you planning a trip to Tanzania? You're in for an incredible adventure! Our ultimate bucket list will take you to some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places in the country.
Trek to Mount Kilimanjaro, tour Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, and explore the Zanzibar Archipelago – just to name a few highlights. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream vacation today!
.................. - What is the best time for a safari in Tanzania?Written By Uyaphi.com
Discover the best time for a safari in Tanzania! Our guide will help you plan your trip for an incredible wildlife experience during the right season.
Explore stunning landscapes and see some of the most fantastic wildlife and birdlife on earth!
.................. - 10 Best Lodges in TanzaniaWritten By Uyaphi.com
Looking for the best places to stay in Tanzania? Look no further! Uyaphi has put together a list of our 10 best lodges in the country, perfect for any traveller.
From Tarangire and Serengeti National Parks to Selous Game Reserve and beyond, we’ve got you covered. So book now and enjoy an unforgettable African safari!
.................. - The Best Tented Safari Camps In KenyaWritten By Uyaphi.comOur list of the top 10 tented camps across Kenya across most budget ranges. We have compiled a list of some amazing accommodation options in Kenya, including Masai Mara, Laikipia Plateau and Amboseli National Park. Home to some of the best wildlife and nature reserves in the world!..................
- Devil's Pool Victoria FallsWritten By Uyaphi.com
The Devil's Pool is a natural pool at the edge of Victoria Falls. It is created by the Zambezi River and it's really cool.
You can swim right up to the edge and you will be close enough that you will feel like you are going to plunge over as well as dizzy from all of the water around you.
.................. - Botswana Travel Bucket ListWritten By Uyaphi.com
Our Travel Bucket List of destinations and activities that are a little off the cuff when it comes to this amazing country.
Not just your stock standard safari destinations but something a little different that will keep one interested not matter the time of year.
.................. - Kenya: Top Holiday Destinations for 2022Written By Uyaphi.comKenya is one of the most beautiful destinations in Africa. It has some of the best landscapes and wildlife that make it a perfect destination for people who are looking for an exciting holiday. Here are a few of the top destinations for 2022 that you should not miss when visiting Kenya...................
- 10 Best Lodges in Kenya to Visit in 2022Written By Uyaphi.com10 Best Lodges in Kenya to Visit in 2022, all establishments offer unforgettable experiences and are found in the Masai Mara, Samburu, Meru, Tsavo, Amboseli, and Nairobi. From the famed Masai Mara to the slopes of Mount Kenya, here are ten of the best lodges in Kenya for an unforgettable safari experience...................
- The Perfect Victoria Falls Honeymoon SafariWritten By Uyaphi.comVictoria Falls is the ideal destination for a honeymoon or romantic safari. Victoria Falls is an awe-inspiring sight, and it's easy to see why it has become one of the most popular destinations for couples on honeymoon or romantic safari...................
- Light Aircraft Flights in BotswanaWritten By Uyaphi.com
The world below from above… It's like a woven tapestry of colours, shapes and tones.
For me flying over Botswana and the Okavango Delta in a light aircraft was nothing short of captivating - my head firmly placed against the little windows to try and take it all in.
.................. - Kids On Safari In The Madikwe, South AfricaWritten By Uyaphi.com
Kids In The Madikwe, a game reserve that offers up some of the best Big 5 sightings, a malaria-free area and a reserve that hosts some of the best family and child-friendly establishments in Southern Africa.
This is the Madikwe Game Reserve.
.................. - Cape Town Sightseeing BusWritten By Uyaphi.com
Explore the stunning city of Cape Town in a budget-friendly and time-efficient way - The City Sightseer Bus.
This double-decker 'topless' red bus offers travellers several routes to take in all the attractions, including Blue Route from the City to Hout Bay, Red Route for Table Mountain Cable Car and Purple Route through Constantia Vineyards.
With the guided tour commentated in 15 different languages, this is a great day out for both kids and adults alike!
.................. - Helicopter Flight over Cape TownWritten By Uyaphi.com
Experience the beauty of Cape Town from a whole new perspective with an amazing Helicopter Flight over the city!
Get ready to take off and explore the stunning coastline, Table Mountain, Camps Bay Beach and more - all while taking in spectacular views that can only be seen from above.
Soar through the skies on a 12-13 minute flight or opt for one of the longer flights available to Hout Bay, Cape Point or even out to the Cape Winelands.
.................. - Constantia Valley Wine RouteWritten By Uyaphi.com
The Constantia Valley Wine Route is a stunning destination for wine lovers in South Africa. It offers an array of estates, each with its own special selection of wines and unique experiences to enjoy.
From the upgraded wine-tasting venue at Uitkyk Estate to Klein Constantia's "Beyond Restaurant", there are plenty of opportunities to sample some excellent local vintages. For those looking for something special, Groot Constantia is home to Cape Ruby port and Eagles Nest has partnered with the Western Cape Raptor Research Programme.
.................. - Mokoro The Okavango DeltaWritten By Uyaphi.com
Mokoro safaris are a popular way to explore the wetlands of Botswana's Okavango.
A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe, and passengers can enjoy a peaceful ride through the waterways while taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful area.
If you are looking for a unique way to experience the Okavango, a mokoro trail or adventure is worth considering. This traditional form of transport is both eco-friendly and tranquil.
.................. - Norval Foundation South AfricaWritten By Uyaphi.com
With its dynamic atmosphere and captivating art, Norval Foundation in Cape Town offers a unique experience for all ages who appreciate the beauty of art.
No matter who you are, the Norval Foundation has something to astound and delight! From spectacular exhibitions to an expansive sculpture garden featuring one-of-a-kind pieces, as well as a selection of educational workshops for kids - it is all here waiting.
.................. - Kirstenbosch, Boomslang Tree Canopy WalkwayWritten By Uyaphi.com
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful and diverse gardens in Cape Town. With its sprawling 1,300 acres of land, Kirstenbosch offers a journey of the senses with its vibrant flowers, lush greenery and an array of birdlife.
For those looking for a unique experience, take on the Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway - an elevated walkway that provides stunning views across the gardens.
.................. - Cape Town To The Kunene RiverWritten By Uyaphi.com
In November and December of last year (2019), we loaded our Jeep and headed north out of Cape Town, destination Namibia and the Kunene River, her border with Angola.
A couple of thousand kilometres later, we returned, this time, more in love with country than ever.
.................. - Singita Sweni Lodge ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
Are you looking to immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime African safari experience? Look no further than the iconic Singita Sweni Lodge.
As one of South Africa’s premier safari lodges, Singita Sweni offers stunningly luxurious accommodations and an abundance of exciting wildlife sightings that will create memories to last a lifetime.
.................. - Greater Kruger Family SafariWritten By Uyaphi.com
"How many more sleeps?” this became our son's wake-up call as the days neared his first ‘safari’ to the Greater Kruger National Park.
James and I had decided to combine a bit of family time with a quick update of the 'family friendly safari lodges' in the greater Kruger area.
.................. - My 4 Day Kruger AdventureWritten By Uyaphi.com
My 4-Day Kruger Adventure was one of the highlights of my travelling; having not visited the area for such a long time, the Kruger National Park was stunning.
Leaving Cape Town and flying north to OR Tambo and then a 5-hour drive to the Kruger from where we stayed in parks board accommodation.
.................. - Impodimo ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
If you're looking for an unpretentious good quality accommodation establishment, look no further than Impodimo in The Madikwe. Coming in at the perfect price, offering all the creature comforts as well as wildlife activities could easily be associated with a property 3x the price.
One will certainly not be disappointed.
.................. - Jamala ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
A review of one of our favourite lodges not only in the Madikwe Game Reserve but the whole of South Africa.
Why and how (well you will have to read for more thoughts and opinions), but in a nutshell - magnificent wildlife, great food, great rooms and most importantly fantastic service.
.................. - Mateya ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
One of those lodges that just blew us away. We knew that we were going somewhere special but just did not realise how extraordinary the experience would be.
Reflecting that old-world wildlife and birdlife experience - it is indeed more old school than new school regarding decor and feels.
.................. - Elephant Hide Guest Lodge ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.comDriving west back towards Cape Town, you will come across Elephant Hide Lodge overlooking the Knysna lagoon. A much smaller and more straightforward affair than Kurland, it also conveys a similar sense of well-being. It contains seven Afro-chic cottages each surrounded by an indigenous garden of fynbos with panoramic views of the lagoon...................
- Kurland Hotel ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.comTravellers in the UK and Europe are very familiar with the country house hotel. Old family manor houses or estates which have either been sold or still managed by their original families and converted into luxury hotels. Some of these homes are very grand but yet always convey a feeling of wellbeing, permanence and intimacy...................
- Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift BattlefieldsWritten By Uyaphi.com
There are few other places on earth where you can visit a battlefield area and see exactly what the soldiers of 130 years ago observed.
The now-famous battles of Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana Battlefields are two of those places and the fact that they are located in the vast and unspoilt beauty of Zululand adds to their allure.
.................. - Fugitives Drift ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
David Rattray is synonymous with Fugitives Drift. His love and hard work put this obscure corner of Zululand on the world map.
Initially, he pioneered the new tourism sector of historical tours in South Africa and then by attracting the great and good of this world including several members of the British Royal Family to this area who consequently were important in financing the influential David Rattray Foundation.
.................. - uShaka Marine World DurbanWritten By Uyaphi.com
Some of the most beautiful game reserves in South Africa are located in Kwazulu Natal, within a few hours' drive of the airport.
Coupled with the Drakensberg Mountain range and the tropical Indian Ocean coast, you have a pretty impressive list of sights to see and experience.
When it comes to Durban however, people have mostly avoided the city as of no particular interest for the family. Think again.
.................. - Comrades MarathonWritten By Uyaphi.com
After the Two Oceans and continuing our theme of running, on the 1st of June is the mother of all ultramarathon running in South Africa and the world, The Comrades Marathon.
This is a race of some pedigree and not only is it the oldest with it having begun in 1921 but it is also by far the largest with an average of 12000 runners competing annually.
.................. - Kwandwe Game Reserve ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
My husband and I were fortunate enough to visit the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It had been many years since I had been on safari in the Eastern Cape and I was eager to see how the experience had changed.
We flew from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth where we picked up our rental car and drove the 2 hours to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived at the reception, we experienced the service that this Relais and Chateaux property is famous for.
We were met with a welcome drink, a cold towel and fresh homemade cookies accompanied by our check-in.
.................. - Addo Elephant Back SafariWritten By Uyaphi.com
I have been travelling in Africa for over three decades. In that time, I have been on countless safaris; by Land Rover, on foot, by canoe and horseback, up and down mountains and valleys.
The sense of wonder and appreciation of natural beauty has never left me.
There are, of course, individual animals which I prefer above all others. Some are large, very large and some small but all, for some reason or other, have endeared themselves towards me. I will start with the very large.
.................. - Samara Game Reserve ReviewWritten By Uyaphi.com
About three hours' drive northwest of Addo National Park (see Tuesday's blog) lies a different country.
If Addo enjoys a lush and verdant environment, Samara Game Reserve (close to Camdeboo National Park) is the opposite. Its semi-desert environment is more akin to Namibia.
Yet here we are in the middle of the Great Karoo near the historic farming town of Graaff Reinet.
.................. - Death of a CheetahWritten By Uyaphi.com
When you live in Africa, love the smell of nature and its strong call, and perhaps even more importantly, understand the natural cycles; you see the death of wildlife as part of the natural order.
The strong conquer the weak, and the old give space to the young.
When you look at a magnificent animal and predator die in an area which is desperately (and successfully) trying to rehabilitate natural corridors of flora and fauna over a previously devastated land, no one would think less of you for shedding a tear.
.................. - Muizenberg Beach Cape TownWritten By Uyaphi.com
Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town, South Africa, is a beautiful seaside town that has experienced both decline and resurgence.
From the late 19th century until the 1960s, it was one of the most popular resort areas in South Africa.
In recent years, however, Muizenberg has undergone a transformation as law-abiding citizens have reclaimed the area and invested heavily in its revitalization.
.................. - Climbing Table MountainWritten By Uyaphi.com
Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town, and with the Aerial Cableway closed for a few weeks, now is the perfect time to explore its many paths.
A hike up Skeleton Gorge provides an opportunity to experience nature's beauty while gathering breathtaking views along the way.
With record numbers of visitors coming to Cape Town due to its designation as World Design Capital 2014, and inclusion as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it is no wonder why this city has been gaining so much attention.
.................. - Shark Cage Diving Cape TownWritten By Uyaphi.com
Experience the majesty of one of nature's most magnificent creatures with shark cage diving in Cape Town. With "Shark Diving", you can get up close and personal with great white sharks as they swim around the boat looking for bait.
Whether you want to dive yourself or just observe from the deck, this thrilling activity offers a unique opportunity to appreciate these powerful animals in their natural habitat.
You will also learn more about how humans are affecting their environment and why conservation efforts are essential for protecting them.
.................. - 10 best things about Cape TownWritten By Uyaphi.com
Cape Town, South Africa is a vibrant and beautiful city that offers something for everyone.
From its stunning beaches to its majestic Table Mountain, from its world-famous Constantia vineyards to the stunning Kirstenbosch Garden, Robben Island and a great number of 5-star restaurants on offer - Cape Town truly is an unforgettable destination.
Here are 10 of the best things about this incredible city that make it such a fantastic place to visit or live in.
.................. - Constantia Winelands, What to Do?Written By Uyaphi.com
Escape from the hustle of Cape Town and immerse yourself in South Africa's famous wine culture by visiting Constantia Valley - only a quick journey away!
For centuries, Constantia Valley has been the home of some of South Africa's oldest and most renowned vineyards and wine farms.
Among these renowned wineries are Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, Constantia Uitsig and Buitenverwachting – each with its own unparalleled atmosphere and exquisite wines.
.................. - Horse Riding in Cape TownWritten By Uyaphi.com
Experience an unforgettable adventure and explore the beauty of Cape Town by horseback.
Just a short drive from the centre of town, you will find Noordhoek – a sleepy community known for its stunning beach that stretches for over eight kilometres and is bordered by wetlands, Chapmans Peak and Kommetjie lighthouse.
Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding offers outrides on this beach where you can ride through dunes, trot across pools of water and even visit the skeletal remains of an old steamship wreck!
.................. - Cape Town Kite FestivalWritten By Uyaphi.com
The 19th annual Cape Town Kite Festival was held at the beginning of November in Muizenberg, bringing together over 20,000 people for a two-day event.
The festival featured stunt kiting exhibitions, Japanese-inspired Rokkaku kite battles, and a Heritage Kite Competition that encouraged children to build South African swallow or bat-style kites from scratch.
In addition to the fun activities on offer, the festival also supports Cape Mental Health charity and provides an opportunity for local businesses and visitors alike to experience the beauty of Cape Town and Muizenberg.
.................. - Design in Cape TownWritten By Uyaphi.com
Cape Town is experiencing an exciting wave of investment, community involvement and physical regeneration due to its designation as the World Design Capital 2014.
This has been evident in the seaside suburb of Muizenberg, where dead corners and buildings have been transformed into vibrant areas full of life.
The murals, sculptures and shops that are popping up all over town are a testament to the power of good design and art in revitalising this once down-at-heel resort.
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- Kruger Family Friendly LodgesThese are our favourite lodges and camps in and around the Kruger Park that offer family-friendly facilities and activities. Most lodges say that they take kids but there is only a handful that have the facilities to keep them busy, these lodges offer daily activities, kids safari options and baby sittings options.
- Romantic Kruger Park LodgesWhen it comes to romance these are our best options. Lodges that do not take children, lodges that offer privacy, large rooms with lots of space and large baths and outdoor showers. This is what romance in the African bushveld should be. Perfect for honeymooners, those in love or those wanting to fall in love.
- Best Baths in AfricaYou can never be as relaxed as you are as in a bath. Now image that bath having one fantastic view out over the plains of Africa with wildlife and birdlife passing you by. That is what this page is all about, simply "The best Baths in Africa".
- Africa's Ultimate Bucket ListIt has become very fashionable to compile a list of things to see and do before one meets their maker. Here at Uyaphi.com we already have our "Ultimate Bucket List" of things in Africa that we have to do and see.
- Best Spas in the KrugerLife on safari is not always about game drives and walks 24/7, there should always be a bit of relaxation time, and this is where a Spa comes into play. Take a few hours off to indulge in a tranquil Spa treatment at one of these excellent lodges. All of these lodges offer in-house facilities and a broad range of treatments.
- Africa's Most Luxurious LodgesIt might come as a surprise to many that some of the most luxurious and desired accommodation establishments on earth are found right here in Africa. This is our showcase of the most luxurious options that we have on offer.