Hi there, my wife and I are likely going to spend a week volunteering at the in Bela Bela, near Hatfield, during the third week of May 2027. After that, we’d like to rent a car and spend a week in Kruger Park. What do you think about the timing and the type of vehicle? Also, which spots are best for accommodation so we can experience the park’s different sides? Thanks.
Trip report: Our South Africa journey in July
by 6cha38
Translated into English.
Well, I bow out gracefully—after all, you were there, and the most important thing is the sighting!
Well, I bow down deeply
No way, Michel, you're crazy offering your neck to four felines!
We could also consider that it’s a cheetah neglected by its mother at birth, like the runt of the litter, and that its development was affected. As for the spots, it’s a common hair mutation to trick observers (like a chameleon does) or happens after too much sun exposure. Well, I tried. 😎
No way, Michel, you're crazy offering your neck to four felines!
We could also consider that it’s a cheetah neglected by its mother at birth, like the runt of the litter, and that its development was affected. As for the spots, it’s a common hair mutation to trick observers (like a chameleon does) or happens after too much sun exposure. Well, I tried. 😎
Hi there,
Day 18: a quiet day between Crocodile Bridge and Lower Sabie. No lions or rhinos on the menu :( but our first jackals, wildebeest, mongooses, and tortoises, plus all the other species we never get tired of watching. And still some beautiful landscapes.
Day 18: a quiet day between Crocodile Bridge and Lower Sabie. No lions or rhinos on the menu :( but our first jackals, wildebeest, mongooses, and tortoises, plus all the other species we never get tired of watching. And still some beautiful landscapes.
Hi,
Day 19: We decide to enter the park as soon as it opens via Crocodile Bridge, 15 minutes from our accommodation. We arrive at 6:00 AM. There’s a long line of cars ahead of us... We get in at 6:45 AM. We missed the sunrise in the park. That’s one of the downsides of staying outside the park—or you have to arrive *very* early to be among the first. We head toward Lower Sabie before turning west. We drive a bit randomly on the roads, trying to follow the waterways. A hyena is lying down with lots of vultures nearby. Maybe a carcass isn’t far off. We’re rewarded a little when, overlooking a river, we spot a lion walking along the bank. But it suddenly changes direction and disappears into the bushes. That’ll be our only lion—briefly and from quite a distance 😕. Later, a huge herd of buffalo blocks the road for quite a while, then it’s elephants. One starts eating while staying in the middle of the road, followed by a young one. Another elephant heads toward us, acting agitated—full reverse! We keep our distance from the herd, where there are several calves. A car overtakes us but quickly reverses. We’re stuck for a good 15–20 minutes. We crossed a completely burned area (around S118, S119, or S121—I can’t remember which) where even the impalas were still around. They’re really everywhere. On our way out, near Berg-en-Dal (a pretty area), we spot 2 rhinos. By the time we reverse, they’re already behind some bushes. Those’ll be our only rhinos too.
Day 19: We decide to enter the park as soon as it opens via Crocodile Bridge, 15 minutes from our accommodation. We arrive at 6:00 AM. There’s a long line of cars ahead of us... We get in at 6:45 AM. We missed the sunrise in the park. That’s one of the downsides of staying outside the park—or you have to arrive *very* early to be among the first. We head toward Lower Sabie before turning west. We drive a bit randomly on the roads, trying to follow the waterways. A hyena is lying down with lots of vultures nearby. Maybe a carcass isn’t far off. We’re rewarded a little when, overlooking a river, we spot a lion walking along the bank. But it suddenly changes direction and disappears into the bushes. That’ll be our only lion—briefly and from quite a distance 😕. Later, a huge herd of buffalo blocks the road for quite a while, then it’s elephants. One starts eating while staying in the middle of the road, followed by a young one. Another elephant heads toward us, acting agitated—full reverse! We keep our distance from the herd, where there are several calves. A car overtakes us but quickly reverses. We’re stuck for a good 15–20 minutes. We crossed a completely burned area (around S118, S119, or S121—I can’t remember which) where even the impalas were still around. They’re really everywhere. On our way out, near Berg-en-Dal (a pretty area), we spot 2 rhinos. By the time we reverse, they’re already behind some bushes. Those’ll be our only rhinos too.
Hello,
The "civet" mentioned on day 17 makes me think more of a "genet"... though I’m not entirely sure, of course. And above, in front of the fence, that really looks like a "Guib harnaché" (Bushbuck)... Cheers. ...
The "civet" mentioned on day 17 makes me think more of a "genet"... though I’m not entirely sure, of course. And above, in front of the fence, that really looks like a "Guib harnaché" (Bushbuck)... Cheers. ...
Hi Alain,
Indeed, "my" civet has the characteristic markings of a genet on either side of its muzzle. It *is* a genet. Thanks for correcting me. For the fawn, I’m also leaning toward a harnessed bushbuck, and the one in the grass a Sharpe’s grysbok. And an elongated red lechwe. It’s not always easy to tell all the antelope species apart—there are so many! But it’s always a joy to see them!
Have a good afternoon
Indeed, "my" civet has the characteristic markings of a genet on either side of its muzzle. It *is* a genet. Thanks for correcting me. For the fawn, I’m also leaning toward a harnessed bushbuck, and the one in the grass a Sharpe’s grysbok. And an elongated red lechwe. It’s not always easy to tell all the antelope species apart—there are so many! But it’s always a joy to see them!
Have a good afternoon
It’s not always easy to tell all the different antelope species apart—there are so many of them. But it’s always a joy to see them!
"Identifying a species is nothing compared to the wonder of encountering it"
A little "principle" of my own that I’ve often used in response to "hardcore" birdwatchers—even the purists or extremists who can’t stand it when you don’t ID a bird... (and there are *hundreds* of species in Africa.)
..
"Identifying a species is nothing compared to the wonder of encountering it"
A little "principle" of my own that I’ve often used in response to "hardcore" birdwatchers—even the purists or extremists who can’t stand it when you don’t ID a bird... (and there are *hundreds* of species in Africa.)
..
Hi there,
Easy transition for a few bird photos we came across in Kruger. It’s not often talked about, but some are really beautiful with shimmering colors. Others are less appealing, like the southern ground hornbill holding a dead bird in its beak. But it’s still always a great encounter.
Easy transition for a few bird photos we came across in Kruger. It’s not often talked about, but some are really beautiful with shimmering colors. Others are less appealing, like the southern ground hornbill holding a dead bird in its beak. But it’s still always a great encounter.
...
The most important thing is that my big "buddy" was there:
The Rollier à longs brins (Lilac-breasted roller)
🙂 🙂
African birdlife is a component you can’t overlook during a trip on this continent. Once you take even a tiny bit of interest in it, all African birds are unique, and many of them are downright stunning. And it doesn’t matter if you don’t know their names.
...
African birdlife is a component you can’t overlook during a trip on this continent. Once you take even a tiny bit of interest in it, all African birds are unique, and many of them are downright stunning. And it doesn’t matter if you don’t know their names.
...
Hi there,
Day 20: We’d planned to stay near Pretoria so we could visit either the Cullinan Mine or the Cradle of Humankind the next day before our late-afternoon flight. We made sure we weren’t too far from the airport on the last day. But nature called, and we ended up staying an extra day in Kruger. We entered and exited through Malelane Gate. We spent quite a bit of time around Berg-en-Dal. We didn’t mind retracing our steps—every encounter is different, and the landscapes look completely new depending on the direction. We never get tired of it! 🙂 For our last day, just landscape photos from Kruger—it’s absolutely stunning.
Day 20: We’d planned to stay near Pretoria so we could visit either the Cullinan Mine or the Cradle of Humankind the next day before our late-afternoon flight. We made sure we weren’t too far from the airport on the last day. But nature called, and we ended up staying an extra day in Kruger. We entered and exited through Malelane Gate. We spent quite a bit of time around Berg-en-Dal. We didn’t mind retracing our steps—every encounter is different, and the landscapes look completely new depending on the direction. We never get tired of it! 🙂 For our last day, just landscape photos from Kruger—it’s absolutely stunning.
Hi there,
I visited Pretoria... the view from the presidential residence is worth a look, but that’s about it.
I also visited the Cradle of Humankind... unless you’re a total geek like me about *Paleontology for Dummies*... and a tour of several caves, including the one where some particularly interesting specimens were discovered...
it’s not the top visit or a must-do...
Hi there,
Day 21: A peaceful drive to the airport with a stop at Azul Petroport on the N4 to see rhinos, which we didn’t spot much of in Kruger. The roads were great all the way, despite a few construction zones. And that’s a wrap on our first trip to South Africa. Definitely not the last—there are so many regions left to explore! Hope this little travel journal was interesting and inspired you to visit this beautiful country if you’re planning a trip. Feel free to ask any questions!
Day 21: A peaceful drive to the airport with a stop at Azul Petroport on the N4 to see rhinos, which we didn’t spot much of in Kruger. The roads were great all the way, despite a few construction zones. And that’s a wrap on our first trip to South Africa. Definitely not the last—there are so many regions left to explore! Hope this little travel journal was interesting and inspired you to visit this beautiful country if you’re planning a trip. Feel free to ask any questions!
Thanks so much, Laurence, for this feedback.
And that’s a wrap on our first trip to South Africa. Definitely not the last—there are so many regions left to explore.
Our first stay in Southern Africa was back in 2017 at Kruger Park... that’s where we caught the Africa bug 😊. Looks like you didn’t escape it either 😉
And that’s a wrap on our first trip to South Africa. Definitely not the last—there are so many regions left to explore.
Our first stay in Southern Africa was back in 2017 at Kruger Park... that’s where we caught the Africa bug 😊. Looks like you didn’t escape it either 😉
I really enjoyed following your travel journal—your itinerary was quite similar to my own discovery of South Africa back in 2016!
It’s clear the magic is still just as strong, and I want to thank you for sharing your trip
It’s clear the magic is still just as strong, and I want to thank you for sharing your trip
Thanks Laurence for this travel journal 🙂.
All of Southern Africa is calling to me... but South Africa is definitely the easiest country to travel independently (and probably the one with the greatest variety of landscapes).
Hi Laurence,
Even though this country doesn’t really appeal to me (I’m more of a fan of southern Tanzania or Namibia), thanks so much for sharing your trip. I just wish the travel journal wasn’t chopped up by comments or random questions that (in my opinion) would’ve fit better at the end of the story...!! At times, I even wondered who the original author was (I even went back to the first post on the first page to double-check...).
If you ever get the chance or feel like exploring a wilder side of Africa, I’d recommend the reserves in southern Tanzania—it’s a whole different world compared to Kruger.
Thanks again. Cheers.
Even though this country doesn’t really appeal to me (I’m more of a fan of southern Tanzania or Namibia), thanks so much for sharing your trip. I just wish the travel journal wasn’t chopped up by comments or random questions that (in my opinion) would’ve fit better at the end of the story...!! At times, I even wondered who the original author was (I even went back to the first post on the first page to double-check...).
If you ever get the chance or feel like exploring a wilder side of Africa, I’d recommend the reserves in southern Tanzania—it’s a whole different world compared to Kruger.
Thanks again. Cheers.
Hi Laurence,
I just caught up and read the end of your enjoyable and info-packed travel journal. Thanks! 🙂
We’re thinking of going back to South Africa next summer, but I’ve noticed flight prices have shot up. I’ve been checking for about two weeks now, and we’re seeing around 1000 € per person in July for a round-trip Paris/JNB with a layover. Two years ago, we paid 631 €! And I’d booked at the same time (late October 2022) for July 2023.
Could you tell me, please, how much you paid for your Paris/Johannesburg round-trip? And when did you book? Thanks
I just caught up and read the end of your enjoyable and info-packed travel journal. Thanks! 🙂
We’re thinking of going back to South Africa next summer, but I’ve noticed flight prices have shot up. I’ve been checking for about two weeks now, and we’re seeing around 1000 € per person in July for a round-trip Paris/JNB with a layover. Two years ago, we paid 631 €! And I’d booked at the same time (late October 2022) for July 2023.
Could you tell me, please, how much you paid for your Paris/Johannesburg round-trip? And when did you book? Thanks
Hi Virginie,
So glad you liked this travel journal!
I booked the Paris/Johannesburg flights in November and paid 615 € per person with Qatar Airways.
Happy trip planning!
So glad you liked this travel journal!
I booked the Paris/Johannesburg flights in November and paid 615 € per person with Qatar Airways.
Happy trip planning!
Log in first, then come back to this page.
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More discussions
Hi,
The Wild Card gives access to many parks in South Africa. Since the card is cheaper if you choose the "couple" option, I was wondering what they mean by "couple." Is it simply 2 people, with no family ties, or is it the "official" couple as many people understand it? In my case, I’ll be traveling with 2 buddies. Since there’ll be 3 of us, we could take 1 couple card and 1 individual one.
Thanks in advance
Hello,
To read:
📋 Yes, travel insurance is now mandatory in the ETA application. Since October 6, 2026, the official Kenyan ETA portal directly includes a step to subscribe to mandatory government travel insurance for travelers required to obtain an ETA, even if you already have your own medical and repatriation insurance. This insurance adds an official extra cost of $44 plus payment fees of $8, totaling $52 on top of the ETA. The ETA application cannot be completed without paying for this insurance on the portal.
In the end, Kenya followed the Tanzanian "model".....!!
One more piece of good news.... Regards.
Puma2A
To read:
📋 Yes, travel insurance is now mandatory in the ETA application. Since October 6, 2026, the official Kenyan ETA portal directly includes a step to subscribe to mandatory government travel insurance for travelers required to obtain an ETA, even if you already have your own medical and repatriation insurance. This insurance adds an official extra cost of $44 plus payment fees of $8, totaling $52 on top of the ETA. The ETA application cannot be completed without paying for this insurance on the portal.
In the end, Kenya followed the Tanzanian "model".....!!
One more piece of good news.... Regards.
Puma2A
Thirty years ago, I traveled to Zanzibar (Tanzania) with my children. Since I’ve since started a new family, I took the opportunity of a trip to Kenya to bring my new family along: my wife, who’s Kenyan, and my 10-year-old daughter.
Zanzibar has really changed in 30 years.
It’s become the island of taxes.
It all starts upon arrival: I think it’s the only country in the world, besides the visa, where Zanzibar insurance (and no other) is mandatory—it costs 40 €. If you didn’t purchase it before arriving, good luck getting it: the IT systems are unreliable. With a bit of luck, it’ll take at least an hour to process! And of course, this insurance is useless—if you get sick, it’s recommended to use your home country’s insurance because if you use Zanzibar’s, your national insurance won’t cover you anymore.
I wanted to show my daughter the red colobus monkey, which is endemic to Zanzibar. I paid for a tour that was supposed to be all-inclusive. First, we visited a spice farm, where a farm guide took charge of us—meaning commissions were involved, of course! The tour was very good and informative, though. When we arrived at Jenzhi Park (the colobus park), the guide told us he "forgot" there was an entrance fee (50$).
Aware of the system, I decided to book an Ocean Blue tour through the Zanzibar Tourism Office. After two hours of driving, we stopped at a beach—and were left there. No boat was ready to take us. Since my wife speaks Swahili (the language in Zanzibar), after an hour, a captain with his own boat agreed to take us along with his family.
Another attempt. The main attraction in Zanzibar (besides the city) is Changuu, the Prison Island. You have to take a motorboat and pay the captain, which is normal.
But in Zanzibar, to even get on a boat, you first have to pay a tax! Once we arrived at the island, it started all over again! Thirty years ago, access was free, and the entire island (about 1 km²) was open. Today, there’s a small office, and you have to pay a hefty fee to enter. But enter where? A paved path leads to about 15% of the island—the rest is off-limits. In total, I paid 100 € for my wife, daughter, and myself just to visit a tiny portion of the island! Avoid this!
For the rest of our stay, we stayed at a 5-star hotel with golf, horseback riding, tennis courts, evening concerts, etc.—undeniably high-level comfort. One last thing: if you want to rent a car, it’s affordable and useful for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes, but there are speed cameras at every corner on the main roads. The fine is supposedly 100 $, and it’s hard not to get one!
I told you: Zanzibar, the land of taxes. I used to think my country, Belgium, was the tax champion—I’ve found something even better!
Hi there!
I’d like to go to South Africa in August and plan my trip myself (so no travel agency). Could anyone recommend a good guidebook, please? (Routard, Lonely Planet, Petit Futé, etc.) Thanks!!
Kaelha
I’d like to go to South Africa in August and plan my trip myself (so no travel agency). Could anyone recommend a good guidebook, please? (Routard, Lonely Planet, Petit Futé, etc.) Thanks!!
Kaelha
Hello fellow travelers,
I’m starting to plan a trip to Tanzania + Zanzibar in August 2027 for 2 to 3 weeks with my partner.
I’ve never been there before and I’d love some advice, especially for Tanzania where we’re planning to do several safaris in the North.
Specifically:
Do you recommend using a travel agency to organize the trip, or are guidebooks and internet recommendations enough? If you’ve used a local agency (rather than one in France), which one? Would you recommend hiring a guide for the entire stay in Tanzania, or is it better to travel independently except in the parks where I’ve read that guides are mandatory? If you’ve used a local agency (rather than one in France), which one and at what price? Have you had any bad surprises (hidden fees, inexperienced guide, poor vehicle condition)?
Looking forward to reading your tips! 🙂 Thanks in advance
I’m starting to plan a trip to Tanzania + Zanzibar in August 2027 for 2 to 3 weeks with my partner.
I’ve never been there before and I’d love some advice, especially for Tanzania where we’re planning to do several safaris in the North.
Specifically:
Do you recommend using a travel agency to organize the trip, or are guidebooks and internet recommendations enough? If you’ve used a local agency (rather than one in France), which one? Would you recommend hiring a guide for the entire stay in Tanzania, or is it better to travel independently except in the parks where I’ve read that guides are mandatory? If you’ve used a local agency (rather than one in France), which one and at what price? Have you had any bad surprises (hidden fees, inexperienced guide, poor vehicle condition)?
Looking forward to reading your tips! 🙂 Thanks in advance
Hello,
A must-read for anyone planning to travel to Kenya or Tanzania in the coming months.
https://www.corsematin.com/article/francemonde/70999544524516/lonu-prevoit-un-el-nino-de-tres-forte-intensite-ces-cinq-prochains-mois
In Nov./Dec. 2022, I went on a safari in the region and we suffered from the extreme temperatures caused by the "El Niño" phenomenon in the Indian Ocean at that time. On top of the extreme heat, there can be torrential rains, flooding, etc., which have led to disasters with casualties.
Worth keeping in mind (just in case).
Best regards, ...
A must-read for anyone planning to travel to Kenya or Tanzania in the coming months.
https://www.corsematin.com/article/francemonde/70999544524516/lonu-prevoit-un-el-nino-de-tres-forte-intensite-ces-cinq-prochains-mois
In Nov./Dec. 2022, I went on a safari in the region and we suffered from the extreme temperatures caused by the "El Niño" phenomenon in the Indian Ocean at that time. On top of the extreme heat, there can be torrential rains, flooding, etc., which have led to disasters with casualties.
Worth keeping in mind (just in case).
Best regards, ...
Hi there,
I’m reaching out with a question about which park to choose for a 3-day safari in Kenya.
After 20 days in Uganda, I’m meeting up with my dad for a 3-day safari (that works for him). We’ll be meeting in Nairobi and have a full day to travel to a park (preferably the farthest from Nairobi to avoid crowds?) and spend 4 nights there before heading back to the capital for our flight to France.
I’d love to hear your recommendations since I’ve read so many great tips on this forum.
Thanks,
David
I’m reaching out with a question about which park to choose for a 3-day safari in Kenya.
After 20 days in Uganda, I’m meeting up with my dad for a 3-day safari (that works for him). We’ll be meeting in Nairobi and have a full day to travel to a park (preferably the farthest from Nairobi to avoid crowds?) and spend 4 nights there before heading back to the capital for our flight to France.
I’d love to hear your recommendations since I’ve read so many great tips on this forum.
Thanks,
David
Hello everyone!
It's been a year since I've been longing for South Africa. Our first trip in August 2025 amazed us, and—rarely—it was a unanimous hit with our little family! We were touched to the core, and from the moment we got home, we couldn’t stop talking about going back. 😄
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who gave me advice on the itinerary for that first trip (Johannesburg loop: Blyde, Kruger, Eswatini, St. Lucia, Durban, Drakensberg)! Thanks to you, our trip went like a dream!
Since then, I haven’t stopped reading articles and discussions on VoyageForum to keep my head in South Africa a little longer!
So, we finally caved and just booked our tickets for January 2027 (from the 3rd to the 26th), with a plan to do a road trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg in about 3 weeks.
I’ve got a rough itinerary that seems great based on what I’ve read on various forums, but there are still some uncertain points, and that’s where I could use your advice.
3/01: Arrival in Johannesburg at 11:45 PM 4/01: Flight to Cape Town, pick up rental car. Afternoon sightseeing 5,6,7/01: Cape Town to visit the big classics in the area (any tips for finding accommodation: which neighborhood, a specific place?) 8/01: Overnight stop before Oudtshoorn—but where??? (Is it essential, or is the CT-Oudtshoorn drive manageable? If so, I’d gain a day in Oudtshoorn. Google Maps shows over 5 hours of driving...) 9,10/01: Oudtshoorn (or would 3 nights be better to really enjoy the area?) 11,12/01: Knysna, Plettenberg Bay (to have time for hiking—if you’ve got hiking tips, I’m all ears!) 13,14/01: Tsitsikamma (still to have time for hiking—who knows the must-do hikes in the area? But maybe 4 nights in the Knysna-Tsitsikamma area is too much—I’m not sure) 16,17/01: Addo Elephant (I’m torn between 3 nights at Addo or 3 nights at Mountain Zebra. Based on travel journals, especially Michel’s on MZ, I’ve scheduled 3 nights at MZ 😄...) 18,19,20/01: Mountain Zebra NP 21/01: Camdeboo NP (because it looks so beautiful!) 22/01: Overnight stop (where?) before wrapping up the trip with either 2 or 3 nights at Golden Gate NP or the Lesotho option, which appeals to me, but I don’t know if it’s doable in 3 days to be back in Johannesburg by the afternoon of the 26th.
That’s my trip idea for now... I’m eagerly waiting for your advice, ideas, and comments... Can’t wait to be back there again!
3/01: Arrival in Johannesburg at 11:45 PM 4/01: Flight to Cape Town, pick up rental car. Afternoon sightseeing 5,6,7/01: Cape Town to visit the big classics in the area (any tips for finding accommodation: which neighborhood, a specific place?) 8/01: Overnight stop before Oudtshoorn—but where??? (Is it essential, or is the CT-Oudtshoorn drive manageable? If so, I’d gain a day in Oudtshoorn. Google Maps shows over 5 hours of driving...) 9,10/01: Oudtshoorn (or would 3 nights be better to really enjoy the area?) 11,12/01: Knysna, Plettenberg Bay (to have time for hiking—if you’ve got hiking tips, I’m all ears!) 13,14/01: Tsitsikamma (still to have time for hiking—who knows the must-do hikes in the area? But maybe 4 nights in the Knysna-Tsitsikamma area is too much—I’m not sure) 16,17/01: Addo Elephant (I’m torn between 3 nights at Addo or 3 nights at Mountain Zebra. Based on travel journals, especially Michel’s on MZ, I’ve scheduled 3 nights at MZ 😄...) 18,19,20/01: Mountain Zebra NP 21/01: Camdeboo NP (because it looks so beautiful!) 22/01: Overnight stop (where?) before wrapping up the trip with either 2 or 3 nights at Golden Gate NP or the Lesotho option, which appeals to me, but I don’t know if it’s doable in 3 days to be back in Johannesburg by the afternoon of the 26th.
That’s my trip idea for now... I’m eagerly waiting for your advice, ideas, and comments... Can’t wait to be back there again!
Hi there,
Hope the pros are on the lookout!
March or May 2027. Around 15 days in the Western Cape, then 15 days in the southern KNP.
Arrival either in PE or George. The pros know I’m somewhat familiar with the area... that I don’t camp... that my accommodations can be simple and remote, self-catering but with basic comforts... that I’m looking for spots that are a bit off the beaten path... in a relaxed mode... From George: Late arrival... need some rest... Herolds Bay from George to the N1. Tsitsikamma is catching my eye (Storms River)... with or without a stop in Knysna. Question: What’s the current condition of the pass from Knysna to Uniondale? R339. And while I’m at it, the condition of the R340. Tsitsikamma, Knysna, and my questions still apply if arriving in PE.
Is the Swartberg still closed? Any recommendations for accommodation in Prince Albert? If I cross the escarpment, I’ll continue via Anysberg NR, Touwsrivier... any thoughts? From there... Tankwa Karoo or Mount Cedar (or both). Then heading back down to the coast... the highlands of Hermanus or Kogelberg NR (any opinions on the latter?).
Or,
A more classic route along the coast...
If I arrive (fairly late) in PE... any ideas for accommodation in that little area? Given that Nyathi Camp is winking at me... (For context... a while back, I stayed at Riverbend (same Addo sector, private concession)... and I visited the ruins of that abandoned lodge at the time, which has clearly been renovated since... located in a very quiet part of Addo...). Any feedback from the pros? Well, that’s about it... I’m open to any other tips or advice!
March or May 2027. Around 15 days in the Western Cape, then 15 days in the southern KNP.
Arrival either in PE or George. The pros know I’m somewhat familiar with the area... that I don’t camp... that my accommodations can be simple and remote, self-catering but with basic comforts... that I’m looking for spots that are a bit off the beaten path... in a relaxed mode... From George: Late arrival... need some rest... Herolds Bay from George to the N1. Tsitsikamma is catching my eye (Storms River)... with or without a stop in Knysna. Question: What’s the current condition of the pass from Knysna to Uniondale? R339. And while I’m at it, the condition of the R340. Tsitsikamma, Knysna, and my questions still apply if arriving in PE.
Is the Swartberg still closed? Any recommendations for accommodation in Prince Albert? If I cross the escarpment, I’ll continue via Anysberg NR, Touwsrivier... any thoughts? From there... Tankwa Karoo or Mount Cedar (or both). Then heading back down to the coast... the highlands of Hermanus or Kogelberg NR (any opinions on the latter?).
Or,
A more classic route along the coast...
If I arrive (fairly late) in PE... any ideas for accommodation in that little area? Given that Nyathi Camp is winking at me... (For context... a while back, I stayed at Riverbend (same Addo sector, private concession)... and I visited the ruins of that abandoned lodge at the time, which has clearly been renovated since... located in a very quiet part of Addo...). Any feedback from the pros? Well, that’s about it... I’m open to any other tips or advice!
Hi there,
Here’s my feedback after a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, months of prep exchanges (over eight months!), and phone calls right up to departure day, the guide didn’t honor the commitments we’d agreed on.
Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com—who we’d organized everything with—didn’t meet us as promised when we arrived in Addis Ababa. Without any warning, he sent a different guide to accompany us for the entire trip (with a flimsy excuse).
Several parts of the signed quote weren’t respected:
– Services included in the quote but not provided on-site (meals, water), – Hotels we’d chosen, booked, and paid for were swapped for lower-category places, – Visits were canceled because the timing wasn’t calculated properly, – One stop on the itinerary was dropped without any reason or explanation.
We’d paid a deposit for domestic flights, with a promise to refund any overpayment. A month after returning, 150 € per person (there were three of us) still hasn’t been refunded.
I’m sharing this to warn fellow travelers about the importance of solid guarantees to ensure contracts are actually honored. Double-check everything before committing!
Wishing everyone safe and smooth travel prep—Ethiopia is an incredible country!
--- Hello,
Feedback following a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, numerous preparatory exchanges over eight months, and phone calls right up until the day of departure, the guide did not fulfill his commitments. Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com with whom we had organized everything, did not meet us as agreed upon our arrival in Addis Ababa; without warning us, he sent another guide in his place to accompany us throughout the trip (with a bogus excuse).
Several points in the signed quote were not honored: – services included in the quote but not provided on site (meals, water), – hotels chosen, booked, and paid for, replaced by lower-category establishments, – visits canceled due to lack of time, which had not been calculated correctly, – one stop on the itinerary canceled without reason or explanation.
A deposit had been paid for the booking of domestic flights, with a commitment to refund the overpayment. To date, one month after our return, 150 € per person (there were three of us) has still not been refunded.
This testimony is intended to alert travelers to the importance of solid guarantees for contracts that are actually honored, so that everyone can be extra vigilant before committing.
Good luck with your travel preparations, everyone. Ethiopia is an extraordinary country!
Here’s my feedback after a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, months of prep exchanges (over eight months!), and phone calls right up to departure day, the guide didn’t honor the commitments we’d agreed on.
Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com—who we’d organized everything with—didn’t meet us as promised when we arrived in Addis Ababa. Without any warning, he sent a different guide to accompany us for the entire trip (with a flimsy excuse).
Several parts of the signed quote weren’t respected:
– Services included in the quote but not provided on-site (meals, water), – Hotels we’d chosen, booked, and paid for were swapped for lower-category places, – Visits were canceled because the timing wasn’t calculated properly, – One stop on the itinerary was dropped without any reason or explanation.
We’d paid a deposit for domestic flights, with a promise to refund any overpayment. A month after returning, 150 € per person (there were three of us) still hasn’t been refunded.
I’m sharing this to warn fellow travelers about the importance of solid guarantees to ensure contracts are actually honored. Double-check everything before committing!
Wishing everyone safe and smooth travel prep—Ethiopia is an incredible country!
--- Hello,
Feedback following a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, numerous preparatory exchanges over eight months, and phone calls right up until the day of departure, the guide did not fulfill his commitments. Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com with whom we had organized everything, did not meet us as agreed upon our arrival in Addis Ababa; without warning us, he sent another guide in his place to accompany us throughout the trip (with a bogus excuse).
Several points in the signed quote were not honored: – services included in the quote but not provided on site (meals, water), – hotels chosen, booked, and paid for, replaced by lower-category establishments, – visits canceled due to lack of time, which had not been calculated correctly, – one stop on the itinerary canceled without reason or explanation.
A deposit had been paid for the booking of domestic flights, with a commitment to refund the overpayment. To date, one month after our return, 150 € per person (there were three of us) has still not been refunded.
This testimony is intended to alert travelers to the importance of solid guarantees for contracts that are actually honored, so that everyone can be extra vigilant before committing.
Good luck with your travel preparations, everyone. Ethiopia is an extraordinary country!
Hi there,
I’m thinking (thanks to some tips from forum members 😉) of taking this route to get to the Cederberg. Apparently, the road was damaged by the May rains, and traffic is still slow there. Has anyone taken this route recently? If not, is one direction (toward or from the Cederberg) more scenic than the other?
I’m thinking (thanks to some tips from forum members 😉) of taking this route to get to the Cederberg. Apparently, the road was damaged by the May rains, and traffic is still slow there. Has anyone taken this route recently? If not, is one direction (toward or from the Cederberg) more scenic than the other?
Hi everyone!
I’m still planning my Cape Town to Johannesburg trip in January 2027.
I saw a documentary about the San people in Namibia, and the same day, I stumbled upon the Lonely Planet page about !Kwah Ttu.
I checked out their website to learn more, including Michel’s travel journal about it. I’m really keen to go.
So, I’m thinking of dedicating:
- either 1 day out of the 4.5 I have in Cape Town...
- or making a detour to !Kwah Ttu on the day I leave Cape Town for Montagu, instead of visiting Franschhoek and its Saturday market...
To the VFers who’ve already been: is it really worth spending a day there?
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Malijp
We're heading to South Africa for a month with 5 adults.
We'd like to rent a vehicle that can accommodate 5 people and all our luggage.
We're starting in Cape Town and ending in Johannesburg.
What vehicle would you recommend?
EDITH
Hi there,
I’m planning a gorilla trek in Bwindi, Uganda. I’m torn between the classic option (1 hour with the gorillas) and the habituation trek (4 hours with the gorillas but a more expensive permit). Has anyone done the habituation trek? Both? If so, I’d love to hear your feedback (including on the difficulty).
Thanks
I'm looking for information and reviews about an agency called BOSS LADY'S DHOW
in Tanzania.
Do you have any info or feedback about them?
Best,
Sebastien
Best,
Sebastien
Hi everyone,
I’ve read some travel journals here but I still have a question.
We’re heading to Uganda next February. The gorilla permits are booked, and the flight tickets are sorted too.
My question is about the chimpanzee trek. I’d love to know whether it’s better to book the habituation experience (4 hours) or the standard trek (1 hour).
The price difference isn’t huge, but I keep wondering and I’d hate to miss out on a great experience.
Could I get your thoughts?
Thanks! Have a great day, Elodie
I’ve read some travel journals here but I still have a question.
We’re heading to Uganda next February. The gorilla permits are booked, and the flight tickets are sorted too.
My question is about the chimpanzee trek. I’d love to know whether it’s better to book the habituation experience (4 hours) or the standard trek (1 hour).
The price difference isn’t huge, but I keep wondering and I’d hate to miss out on a great experience.
Could I get your thoughts?
Thanks! Have a great day, Elodie
Hi there,
I’m looking for a French-speaking agency that organizes safaris in Tanzania.
Any recommendations?
I’ve been in touch with Asanterra, but I haven’t found any reviews about this company.
Cheers,
Any recommendations?
I’ve been in touch with Asanterra, but I haven’t found any reviews about this company.
Cheers,
Hi everyone,
We’re revising our travel plans for January 2027. Originally, we were considering Uganda for about 14/15 days, but given the current health situation and the restrictions that might affect my partner, who’s American, we’ve decided to switch to Tanzania instead.
I’m used to traveling in South Africa and organizing my trips myself, but I get the impression that planning a safari in Tanzania is quite different.
I know self-drive isn’t really an option in Tanzania. So my main question is: can you organize your own itinerary and book lodges directly, then hire a local driver-guide? Or is it better to go through a local agency that handles the entire safari?
For the itinerary, which parks would you recommend for a first-time visit in January? Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara, Ruaha, Arusha, Selous…
We’d also like to include Zanzibar to end the trip with a few days at the beach. Over 14/15 days, does that sound realistic or too ambitious?
Finally, for flights, is it better to arrive at Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Dar es Salaam (DAR) based on the itinerary we’re considering?
Thanks in advance for your feedback, especially on the best way to organize the safari and which parks to prioritize in January!
Hi there,
We're now just 5 weeks away from our trip to South Africa 🙂 and *so* excited to explore (just a tiny bit of) this amazing country. I need to buy some binoculars but have no idea which model to choose. I don’t really know what to look for (and I don’t want to spend too much). Thanks in advance to anyone who can give me some tips!
Françoise
We're now just 5 weeks away from our trip to South Africa 🙂 and *so* excited to explore (just a tiny bit of) this amazing country. I need to buy some binoculars but have no idea which model to choose. I don’t really know what to look for (and I don’t want to spend too much). Thanks in advance to anyone who can give me some tips!
Françoise
We just got back from ten days in Tanzania. We were lucky enough to be guided by Gishaman. Always in a great mood, a good driver, and an excellent guide. Thanks to him, we not only saw the Big Five in one day but also loads of other animals. He works for the local agency Blit Safaris, which provided excellent support throughout our trip. Highly recommended!
Hi there,
I’m planning a potential trip to Namibia for a classic circuit in April 2027.
I’m surprised by how expensive the accommodations inside the parks are—really steep! Is it possible to stay outside the parks but still close enough to enjoy the game drives?
Do you have any recommendations for more reasonably priced lodging? I’m okay with spending 200 to 250 € per night.
No camping—the friend I’m traveling with absolutely refuses 😉, but maybe upgraded tents would work.
Thanks in advance, and have a great evening! !
I’m planning a potential trip to Namibia for a classic circuit in April 2027.
I’m surprised by how expensive the accommodations inside the parks are—really steep! Is it possible to stay outside the parks but still close enough to enjoy the game drives?
Do you have any recommendations for more reasonably priced lodging? I’m okay with spending 200 to 250 € per night.
No camping—the friend I’m traveling with absolutely refuses 😉, but maybe upgraded tents would work.
Thanks in advance, and have a great evening! !
Hi, I'm looking for information on the road conditions in Moremi. We're leaving in 15 days, and from what I've heard, the roads are pretty tough to drive on. Any advice?
Thanks
Hi everyone!
My trip to South Africa is getting closer (still 2 months to go 😏), and I’m diving back into my itinerary: from Saturday to the following Sunday around Cape Town, then from Sunday to the following Saturday in Kruger.
For Cape Town, the plan was to avoid changing accommodation every day (we’ll do enough of that in the second part) but still see different landscapes. I know, I’m missing out on a lot, but you’ve got to make choices, and after all this time, I know what I like—and especially what I don’t (or like less) 😉
Here’s the breakdown:
Arrival Saturday at 11 AM: heading to Hermanus (2 nights). The idea is to stroll along the cliff path in the afternoon, and possibly drive to the Klein River Lagoon. Sunday: Stony Point, then depending on time and weather, a hike in Kogelberg Nature Reserve or Fernkloof Nature Reserve (which seems less scenic but has shorter walks). Monday: drive to Franschhoek (1 night). If everything lines up, a hike in Jonkershoek NR and a visit to a wine estate. Tuesday: drive to Mountceder Lodge in the Cederberg (2 nights). I’m thinking of visiting the Stadsaal Caves and the elephant paintings, and maybe one of the hikes listed on the lodge’s site or Maltese Cross. Thursday: heading to Hout Bay for 3 nights. In no particular order: a classic day trip around the peninsula, half a day at Kirstenbosch Gardens, and half a day at Lion’s Head. Sunday: flight to Johannesburg.
My questions are mostly about (short) hikes: Has anyone here done hikes in Kogelberg, Fernkloof, or Jonkershoek? At Mountceder Lodge (Michel, if you’re reading this… 😉), has anyone tried the hikes (guided or not) offered by the lodge? There’s still half a day to fill when we’re in Hout Bay—any ideas (not necessarily hikes)?
Lastly, regarding safety: the French foreign ministry (always alarmist, but still) recommends hiking in groups. Is it really risky in broad daylight? (I’m not sure a group of two women counts as a "group"…)
Thanks in advance for your answers, ideas, and comments!
My trip to South Africa is getting closer (still 2 months to go 😏), and I’m diving back into my itinerary: from Saturday to the following Sunday around Cape Town, then from Sunday to the following Saturday in Kruger.
For Cape Town, the plan was to avoid changing accommodation every day (we’ll do enough of that in the second part) but still see different landscapes. I know, I’m missing out on a lot, but you’ve got to make choices, and after all this time, I know what I like—and especially what I don’t (or like less) 😉
Here’s the breakdown:
Arrival Saturday at 11 AM: heading to Hermanus (2 nights). The idea is to stroll along the cliff path in the afternoon, and possibly drive to the Klein River Lagoon. Sunday: Stony Point, then depending on time and weather, a hike in Kogelberg Nature Reserve or Fernkloof Nature Reserve (which seems less scenic but has shorter walks). Monday: drive to Franschhoek (1 night). If everything lines up, a hike in Jonkershoek NR and a visit to a wine estate. Tuesday: drive to Mountceder Lodge in the Cederberg (2 nights). I’m thinking of visiting the Stadsaal Caves and the elephant paintings, and maybe one of the hikes listed on the lodge’s site or Maltese Cross. Thursday: heading to Hout Bay for 3 nights. In no particular order: a classic day trip around the peninsula, half a day at Kirstenbosch Gardens, and half a day at Lion’s Head. Sunday: flight to Johannesburg.
My questions are mostly about (short) hikes: Has anyone here done hikes in Kogelberg, Fernkloof, or Jonkershoek? At Mountceder Lodge (Michel, if you’re reading this… 😉), has anyone tried the hikes (guided or not) offered by the lodge? There’s still half a day to fill when we’re in Hout Bay—any ideas (not necessarily hikes)?
Lastly, regarding safety: the French foreign ministry (always alarmist, but still) recommends hiking in groups. Is it really risky in broad daylight? (I’m not sure a group of two women counts as a "group"…)
Thanks in advance for your answers, ideas, and comments!
hi
Question: we’re doing a 3-week trip in Namibia, including 5 days for Victoria Falls. I’ve booked one night in Brandberg, and then I have some questions. I was thinking of spending 2 nights in Palmwag, then heading to Etosha for one night in Okaukuejo and then 2 nights in Halali. Alternatively, from Brandberg, I could book a night near Galton Gate and then enter Etosha. I’m not really sure about the distances, especially with a 4x4. Same for the return trip: Halali to Windhoek seems long. Maybe it’d be smart to break it up on the way back? (We have 2 days to get back if needed.) If so, where?
Thanks for your tips and feedback!
Rachel
Question: we’re doing a 3-week trip in Namibia, including 5 days for Victoria Falls. I’ve booked one night in Brandberg, and then I have some questions. I was thinking of spending 2 nights in Palmwag, then heading to Etosha for one night in Okaukuejo and then 2 nights in Halali. Alternatively, from Brandberg, I could book a night near Galton Gate and then enter Etosha. I’m not really sure about the distances, especially with a 4x4. Same for the return trip: Halali to Windhoek seems long. Maybe it’d be smart to break it up on the way back? (We have 2 days to get back if needed.) If so, where?
Thanks for your tips and feedback!
Rachel
Jambo! I organized my trip through this kind of group, so I thought I’d share my experience here. We traveled as a group of four, including two kids aged 9 and 11. After requesting around twenty quotes, I decided to book the safari portion with MAKING MEMORIES IN AFRICA. Ally responded quickly and listened to all my requests—unlike other agencies—such as having a French-speaking guide, the order of park visits (Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, then Ngorongoro), and a mix of budget hotels and camping to keep costs down. There were still four agencies in the running, and price was the deciding factor. Even though they were the cheapest, I felt better taken care of than with others. For example, all meals were prepared by a Maasai chef, Louis, who accompanied us throughout the trip, while some others ate meals out of cardboard boxes. Samuel, our guide, explained so many things and answered all our questions. José drove us safely the whole way. Everything was done with great cheer!
At the end of the stay, Ally came to meet us and gave us t-shirts with the agency’s logo—we loved that they took the time to hear our feedback in person. In short, I highly recommend them +++, especially since it’s a local agency that also supports a charity for women and children.
For Zanzibar, I organized everything myself. I hesitated for a long time but eventually booked all four nights at the same place. We don’t like crowds, so I initially considered Jambiani but ended up choosing EVERGREEN BUNGALOWS in Bwejuu. We took their first airport-to-hotel transfer since we arrived at night, and it felt safer. Great value for money, in our opinion. Just be aware that it’s quite isolated—perfect for relaxing and going on excursions. There were very few beach vendors, unlike what I’d read about Zanzibar. We lived with our feet in the sand from morning to night, with a small basin of water outside our room to rinse off. Such a lovely spot!
I had asked for some excursion prices before leaving but ended up booking on-site. Not at our hotel, but at a nearby restaurant that was cheaper. After some thought, since we were based in Bwejuu, I wanted to do Blue Lagoon and Pungume (both departing from the south of Zanzibar).
Blue Lagoon: About 3 hours total, with snorkeling on a small reef full of fish (coral wasn’t great) and a stop at a spot with tons of starfish, plus local snacks, fruit, and drinks.
Pungume: An amazing day with a 50% chance of seeing dolphins (we missed them), a visit to the mangroves, then snorkeling at a spot with some nice coral and, of course, fish. We ended with a fantastic grill (tuna, shrimp, squid, lobster, and fries) on a sandbank in the shade.
Finally, before heading to Stone Town, we visited Paje Cave, which is much less known than Maalum. It’s smaller, but we saw bats, went for a swim, and fed the chickens and rabbits (great for the kids). To finish, we explored Stone Town on our own and had dinner at Forodhani Market.
For flights, we flew with Turkish Airlines from Barcelona to Kilimanjaro and back from Zanzibar—no issues there. However, I don’t recommend the Kilimanjaro-Zanzibar leg with Precision Air. Our luggage didn’t arrive, and according to the hotel, this happens often. We only got it back a day and a half later.
At the end of the stay, Ally came to meet us and gave us t-shirts with the agency’s logo—we loved that they took the time to hear our feedback in person. In short, I highly recommend them +++, especially since it’s a local agency that also supports a charity for women and children.
For Zanzibar, I organized everything myself. I hesitated for a long time but eventually booked all four nights at the same place. We don’t like crowds, so I initially considered Jambiani but ended up choosing EVERGREEN BUNGALOWS in Bwejuu. We took their first airport-to-hotel transfer since we arrived at night, and it felt safer. Great value for money, in our opinion. Just be aware that it’s quite isolated—perfect for relaxing and going on excursions. There were very few beach vendors, unlike what I’d read about Zanzibar. We lived with our feet in the sand from morning to night, with a small basin of water outside our room to rinse off. Such a lovely spot!
I had asked for some excursion prices before leaving but ended up booking on-site. Not at our hotel, but at a nearby restaurant that was cheaper. After some thought, since we were based in Bwejuu, I wanted to do Blue Lagoon and Pungume (both departing from the south of Zanzibar).
Blue Lagoon: About 3 hours total, with snorkeling on a small reef full of fish (coral wasn’t great) and a stop at a spot with tons of starfish, plus local snacks, fruit, and drinks.
Pungume: An amazing day with a 50% chance of seeing dolphins (we missed them), a visit to the mangroves, then snorkeling at a spot with some nice coral and, of course, fish. We ended with a fantastic grill (tuna, shrimp, squid, lobster, and fries) on a sandbank in the shade.
Finally, before heading to Stone Town, we visited Paje Cave, which is much less known than Maalum. It’s smaller, but we saw bats, went for a swim, and fed the chickens and rabbits (great for the kids). To finish, we explored Stone Town on our own and had dinner at Forodhani Market.
For flights, we flew with Turkish Airlines from Barcelona to Kilimanjaro and back from Zanzibar—no issues there. However, I don’t recommend the Kilimanjaro-Zanzibar leg with Precision Air. Our luggage didn’t arrive, and according to the hotel, this happens often. We only got it back a day and a half later.
Hi,
At the end of July, we’re heading to Namibia with a group of five for a three-week road trip and visit to the national parks. We’ve read conflicting info about buying entry tickets—either online (where?) or at the gate when we arrive?
Thanks in advance for your tips!!
Have a great day
At the end of July, we’re heading to Namibia with a group of five for a three-week road trip and visit to the national parks. We’ve read conflicting info about buying entry tickets—either online (where?) or at the gate when we arrive?
Thanks in advance for your tips!!
Have a great day
Hi there,
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the agencies you used to plan your trip to Uganda.
There’s the whole issue of gorilla permits, which need to be booked in advance and involve a significant financial commitment. That’s where I’m at with my trip planning. Between checking lutb.go.ug/ and reading online reviews, it’s hard to move forward with confidence.
I contacted the French Embassy, but they don’t provide any recommendations. I almost booked with an agency that had a really bad review from February specifically about the permit process.
How did you go about choosing your agency? Given the large sum involved, I’m this close to booking through a travel agency in France for this part.
From what I understand, no matter which agency books the permit, you’re ultimately guided by professionals trained for gorilla trekking based on the permit itself? I’m assuming that’s how it works.
Thanks for your feedback, and I’m really happy to see the forum’s new energy—it’s been super helpful to me in the past.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the agencies you used to plan your trip to Uganda.
There’s the whole issue of gorilla permits, which need to be booked in advance and involve a significant financial commitment. That’s where I’m at with my trip planning. Between checking lutb.go.ug/ and reading online reviews, it’s hard to move forward with confidence.
I contacted the French Embassy, but they don’t provide any recommendations. I almost booked with an agency that had a really bad review from February specifically about the permit process.
How did you go about choosing your agency? Given the large sum involved, I’m this close to booking through a travel agency in France for this part.
From what I understand, no matter which agency books the permit, you’re ultimately guided by professionals trained for gorilla trekking based on the permit itself? I’m assuming that’s how it works.
Thanks for your feedback, and I’m really happy to see the forum’s new energy—it’s been super helpful to me in the past.
Hi everyone!
We’re heading to Uganda next summer for three weeks with our two kids, who’ll be 7 and 9 years old. We’ve been to Southern Africa before but not East Africa, and after a trip to South Africa two years ago, the kids wanted to return to Africa, while we wanted to explore a new region while staying independent... Uganda’s been catching our eye for a while, and with Rwandair offering relatively attractive prices, we’re going for it!
We’ll be traveling in a 4x4 (self-drive) with roof tents. I don’t have any 4x4 driving experience, so it’ll be a first for me, but we’ll manage 😉 No great apes for us—kids need to be 15, and we don’t want to do that experience without them.
I don’t usually ask the forum much for trip planning, but this time, I’d love your thoughts and advice!
First question: Karamoja or not? At first glance, if we want to add it to a "classic" loop in the southwest, it doesn’t seem realistic—too packed, too much driving. We could consider doing the full loop via Kidepo and then heading down to Murchison, but I’m worried the trip might feel less varied and less kid-friendly. That said, the region looks stunning, and I’m struggling to accept not going at all... What do you think?
If we skip Karamoja, we’d do a loop: Murchison/Fort Portal/QENP/Bunyonyi/Mburo, which seems pretty comprehensive and would let us take our time, which is nice. A few random questions: - How much time should we plan for the Fort Portal area? I was thinking at least 3 days to visit Bigodi Swamp, walk around the craters, and maybe do a community walk (any thoughts on that?). - Between Murchison Falls and the Fort Portal area, is it worth breaking up the drive? I spotted Lake Albert Safari Lodge on the shores of Lake Albert—it’s not too expensive and looks nice. - I’d love to do some easy walks/hikes at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, ideally without a guide, but it doesn’t seem straightforward. Do you know if it’s possible to do nice walks independently? I’ve read about hikes in the hills near Kilembe but nothing very specific. Maybe staying somewhere at the foot of the mountains, like Ruboni Community Camp, would allow that. - Lake Mutanda looks really cool, and so does Lake Bunyonyi... Ideally, I’d like to see both, but won’t that feel repetitive? Is Lake Mutanda worth the detour?
Last practical question, since we don’t have experience with this: for the car with kids, would you recommend two tents (a bit more space) or a four-person tent?
I’ll stop here—already a lot of questions...
Thanks in advance for your feedback, and looking forward to exchanging ideas! Gabriel
We’re heading to Uganda next summer for three weeks with our two kids, who’ll be 7 and 9 years old. We’ve been to Southern Africa before but not East Africa, and after a trip to South Africa two years ago, the kids wanted to return to Africa, while we wanted to explore a new region while staying independent... Uganda’s been catching our eye for a while, and with Rwandair offering relatively attractive prices, we’re going for it!
We’ll be traveling in a 4x4 (self-drive) with roof tents. I don’t have any 4x4 driving experience, so it’ll be a first for me, but we’ll manage 😉 No great apes for us—kids need to be 15, and we don’t want to do that experience without them.
I don’t usually ask the forum much for trip planning, but this time, I’d love your thoughts and advice!
First question: Karamoja or not? At first glance, if we want to add it to a "classic" loop in the southwest, it doesn’t seem realistic—too packed, too much driving. We could consider doing the full loop via Kidepo and then heading down to Murchison, but I’m worried the trip might feel less varied and less kid-friendly. That said, the region looks stunning, and I’m struggling to accept not going at all... What do you think?
If we skip Karamoja, we’d do a loop: Murchison/Fort Portal/QENP/Bunyonyi/Mburo, which seems pretty comprehensive and would let us take our time, which is nice. A few random questions: - How much time should we plan for the Fort Portal area? I was thinking at least 3 days to visit Bigodi Swamp, walk around the craters, and maybe do a community walk (any thoughts on that?). - Between Murchison Falls and the Fort Portal area, is it worth breaking up the drive? I spotted Lake Albert Safari Lodge on the shores of Lake Albert—it’s not too expensive and looks nice. - I’d love to do some easy walks/hikes at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, ideally without a guide, but it doesn’t seem straightforward. Do you know if it’s possible to do nice walks independently? I’ve read about hikes in the hills near Kilembe but nothing very specific. Maybe staying somewhere at the foot of the mountains, like Ruboni Community Camp, would allow that. - Lake Mutanda looks really cool, and so does Lake Bunyonyi... Ideally, I’d like to see both, but won’t that feel repetitive? Is Lake Mutanda worth the detour?
Last practical question, since we don’t have experience with this: for the car with kids, would you recommend two tents (a bit more space) or a four-person tent?
I’ll stop here—already a lot of questions...
Thanks in advance for your feedback, and looking forward to exchanging ideas! Gabriel
Hi everyone!
I’m looking for a French-speaking local guide for July 2019. Would anyone have a contact there? No tour operators, please.
Thanks in advance!
I’m looking for a French-speaking local guide for July 2019. Would anyone have a contact there? No tour operators, please.
Thanks in advance!