When to Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is a beautiful place to visit just about any time of the year. That is, of course, except for the windy months during which the wind gales are so strong the mountain passes end up shut down.

Cape Town is at its windiest between October and March and things are at their absolute worst during December when winds can blow as rough as 37 miles per hour on a regular basis. The strong winds also blow Portuguese men-of-war (aka stinging jellyfish) towards the shores, making it nearly impossible to swim.

The best time to visit Cape Town is during the month of April. The wind and summer heat will have tamed themselves and you can enjoy the warm weather and beautiful colors of autumn. The winter months are usually rainy but are stunningly green as well. If you wait until the spring months to visit you’ll be greeted by beautiful wildflowers and may even have an opportunity to spot a whale or two off of the shoreline.

Transportation throughout Cape Town

Believe it or not, the city of Cape Town doesn’t really have a large public transportation system and what they do have isn’t really cost effective to use. Consider asking the concierge at your Cape Town hotel where you can rent a scooter or bicycle. They’re cheaper and will afford you a better view of the city as you explore.

Health and Safety in Cape Town

Cape Town is generally a safe city to visit but, like just about every other major city, there is some level of petty crime and drug use. It is in your best interests to avoid traveling near the center of the city at night. The weekends in the center of Cape Town should be avoided as well because the area is quiet because of the end of the business week.

Petty theft is prevalent in the center of Cape Town and may be experienced in other areas as well. Thieves have in the past been bold enough to steal people’s cell phones right out of their hands (while they’re talking) and others will reach right through your open car window to take things off the seats.

Use caution if you use an ATM machine. Cancel your transaction right away if anyone attempts to “help” you and always make sure that you get your card back from the machine. Conceal your cash immediately after withdraw.

Glue sniffing is the drug of choice amongst children in Cape Town. While you may at first feel bad for a child begging at a street corner, it is important for you to understand that any cash you give him will likely go towards supporting his glue sniffing habit. Give them food instead, if you are so inclined, or find a reputable charity, like The Big Issue magazine, where you can donate cash.

Things to do in Cape Town

Cape Town, set at the base of the astounding Table Mountain, is full of incredible educational, interesting, and enjoyable attractions. The only problem you’ll have is deciding where to start once you arrive.

The best way to get a bird’s eye view of Cape Town is by taking a ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. The ride up the mountain only takes 3-5 minutes but you’ll have some of the most incredible views of the sea, bay, and city below. Check the operating times before you head out to the station – times change seasonally.

The South African National Gallery is one of the most phenomenal museums in the area. Inside you’ll find an extensive collection of art from the 19^th and 20^th centuries as well as some contemporary works of South African art depicting the area’s incredible history. Exhibits change regularly so you never know what you might find upon arrival.

If you love marine wildlife, or if you’re traveling with children in tow, you’ll definitely want to take a trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium. The aquarium, considered one of the best on the planet, houses aquatic wildlife from the Indian Ocean, the Atlantic, and from bodies of water around the world. There are dive tanks, touch pools for children, and dozens of other interactive (and hands-off) displays.

Cape Town has a lot to offer visitors from surrounding areas and the rest of the world. Plan your trip during South Africa’s fall months and prepare to be astounded!

The capital Rabat however, together with nearby Casablanca, seldom make the must-see list of Morocco. The latter, a major commercial port and economic hub, is the most populous city in the country, with close to 4 million people. While on paper Casablanca looks good, many advise first-time visitors to veer clear of the metropolis and head for the cultural gems of Morocco. Rabat, a short drive away on the coast, suffers from similar bad press. As the political capital, it’s true that the city is less vibrant than Marrakech or Meknes for example. However, intrepid tourists with time in Morocco can squeeze the most out of both Casablanca and Rabat by prioritizing attractions such as the ten that follow.

1. Old Medina

Again, Casablanca’s Old Medina is not the equal of the one in Fes. Lower your expectations a little and you’ll have a wonderful time exploring the narrow, bustling quarter.

2. Corniche

Casablanca’s Corniche is a good place to take a stroll and admire some of the city’s past glory. While not as romantic in reality as on screen, most notably in Casablanca of course, the coastal promenade is definitely worthwhile.

3. King Hassan II Mosque

By far the most prominent landmark in all of Casablanca, and perhaps even Morocco, the King Hassan II Mosque is immense. With room for some 80,000 adherents, both inside and out, the mosque is the largest in the country and third largest in the world after the mosques in Mecca and Medina.

4. Casablanca Cathedral

A leftover remnant of the French colonial period, Casablanca Cathedral was built in 1930 in impressive Neo-Gothic style. Now a cultural center, the Roman Catholic church still evokes a spiritual air.

5. Temple Beth-El

With well over twenty synagogues, there are many reminders around Casablanca of Morocco’s once vital Jewish population. Perhaps the most paramount and aesthetically singular synagogue in the kingdom is Temple Beth-El.

6. Hassan Tower

As the political capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, Rabat has many fine landmarks on display. Hassan Tower is the most conspicuous and dates back to the late 12th century. The tower was to be a grand minaret for a glorious mosque but alas, benefactor sultan Yacoub al-Mansour met his demise before completion of the ambitious project.

7. Kasbah of the Udayas

A kasbah can be a medina or fortress and Morocco of course, has many. The Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat was built in the 12th century and is on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list.

8. Chellah Necropolis

The irony of the Chellah Necropolis outside of central Rabat is that it lies in the city’s Ville Nouvelle. There’s certainly nothing new about this phenomenal set of Roman ruins however, referred to by none other than Ptolemy.

9. Royal Palace

The home of the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, along with wife Princess Lalla Salma and two children, the Royal Palace in Rabat is indeed fit for, well, a king. Public access is not quite on par with Buckingham Palace however, though visitors can mill about outside.

10. National Archaeological Museum

Open since 1932, the National Archaeological Museum of Morocco is a definite must-see. The Rabat facility contains the best collection of artifacts germane to the country and people who inhabit it. From pre-Roman to Islamic archaeology, the museum offers a wonderful education on Morocco’s history and heritage. The photograph below is not of the excellent museum unfortunately but a nice old Rabat street scene nonetheless.

Check out fabulous deals on hotels all over Morocco.

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The Islamic nation of 10 million people however, has a singular vibe that one can only fully appreciate when ensconced in the former agricultural cradle of the Roman Empire. From the Atlas mountains to the vast desert confines of the Sahara, exquisite Mediterranean coast and lush, fertile plains, Tunisia is a paradise destination.

Here are some of the best places to explore in the wonderful country.

Hammamet

Hammamet, a coastal town of 60,000 inhabitants, was for decades the first point of entry into Tunisia for foreign visitors. With a deep and rich history, the town is situated on the southeastern edge of the beautiful Cap Bon peninsula.

Famous for pristine beaches that offer superb conditions for watersports and other recreational pursuits, Hammamet has also been a playground for the rich and famous over the years. Winston Churchill and Erwin Rommel are just two of the most notable past part-time residents.

Carthage

Another factor in Hammamet’s favor as a tourist attraction is the town’s proximity to the ancient city of Carthage. Now a suburb of the capital of Tunis, the once-Phoenician center of civilization was a paramount world power as far back as the 10th century B.C. The fact that so little historical data is available on Carthage, in comparison to other important places throughout antiquity, makes it even greater a magnet for tourists and researchers alike. Wherever your interest lies, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth a visit.

Djerba

A major island off the coast of North Africa, let alone Tunisia, Djerba is a wonderful escape in the Gulf of Gabes. With a main city, Houmt Souk, that has a population of 63,000 and several historic attractions, the island is very diverse. From the Bordj el Kebir fort to a traditional souk (hence the name of course), replete with delicious smells and unique crafts, Houmt Souk is a beautiful little city of bright white-washed buildings.

The port of Ajim provides Djerba with another popular tourist destination, most notably for fans of the Star Wars film franchise. Director George Lucas chose the nearby landscape for many key scenes and locations. Incredibly, Obi-Wan Kenobi’s house still stands.

Other attractions in Djerba include village ruins that date back from the 4th century, brilliant beaches and vital ecclesiastical landmarks for the Islamic community of course, but also for a strong Jewish minority.

Mahdia

An achingly pretty coastal town of 37,000 people, with settlement roots that date back to the Phoenicians, Mahdia is spectacular. Official foundation of the town in the modern era was in 921 and for a time, Mahdia was the capital of Tunisia. There are scores of historic sites around town but most of all, Mahdia is simply a great place to wander about and get a sense of Tunisian culture.

Zarzis

A curious mix of modern and ancient, Zarzis is on the extreme southeastern coast of Tunisia. Popular because of a more than amiable climate, the once Phoenician and Roman port is also a hub of olive oil production. The crux of the tourist industry however, centers around the town’s fortuitous coastal location.

Sousse

Less than a two hour drive south of the capital city of Tunis, Sousse is a small city of just under 175,000 people. Like so much of coastal Tunisia, the history of the area dates back thousands of years to the famous Phoenicians again and in succession, the Romans, Vandals and Byzantines. Herein is the appeal of Tunisia in a nutshell: phenomenal historical diversity that in many respects, dwarfs many parts of Europe.

What Sousse also has going for it in terms of tourist appeal are a lively port, world famous olive groves and UNESCO World Heritage medina quarter. Throw in postcard-perfect beaches and the overtly-tourist-centric complex of Port El Kantaoui and you have one of the most unique destinations in North Africa.

Discover the best rates on hotels in locations all over Tunisia.

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The country is huge and there is a lot to see and do. One of the most highly recommended methods for exploring the country is to simply rent a car and hit the roads on your own. While public transportation is available for those who may not want to go at it alone, the ability to drive through Morocco will give you the opportunity to stop at places that are a little bit further off of the beaten path.

Obtaining a Rental Car

Finding a rental car to drive during your trip through Morocco is no different than it is in most major cities around the world. You should be able to arrange for a rental car in advance by making a reservation with a major international chain such as AVIS, Hertz, or even Budget. Check the internet and consider asking your local travel agent for recommendations, as the average rental car can cost anywhere between $40 and $85 per day, if not more.

If you carry full coverage on your personal vehicle your coverage may or may not extend to your rental car, depending on your carrier’s rules regarding rentals out of the country. Despite this fact, it’s still best to purchase automobile insurance from the rental car company. While your personal coverage may pay for damages to the vehicle itself, it absolutely will not pay for the “loss of use” charges your rental car carrier will assess to cover the money they are losing while the car you damaged is undergoing repair.

As with most rental car companies, the driver of your vehicle will have to be at least 25 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and possess a credit card to pay for charges. Be sure to check in advance to find out if you need to fulfill any special requirements for an international driving permit.

Traveling Morocco by Car

We’d recommend this regardless of the country you’re driving through: never leave home without a road map. If you don’t know how to read one, you’ll quickly learn. The roads between major cities are often well marked and evenly paved, but some of the lesser traveled routes are not as easy to navigate.

Never leave one destination for another without topping off your gas tank. You will not find a filling station on every city corner like in most major cities in the United States. You could easily drive for several miles without even a sign of civilization, let alone a place to purchase gas. Morocco may be a safe place, but we don’t recommend getting stuck anywhere strange because of such a silly oversight.

Planning Your Trip

As we mentioned before, Morocco is a huge place and there are tons of incredible towns to see. The average person needs about eight days to drive through Morocco, though some who are lucky enough to be retired or have vacation days backed up will find three or four weeks to be a reasonable amount of time as well.

This is the part where a little bit of advanced planning comes into play. Sit down with your road map, determine how much time you have, and figure out what route you’d like to take. No matter where you go, try to include these unforgettable cities:

• Casablanca is the setting for the famous movie and is also home to the second largest mosque in the world, Hassan II Mosque;

• Marrakech is a short trip down the Marrakech-Casablanca expressway and it’s here that you’ll get to see some of the saints tombs before entering the city;

• Djemaa Al Fna is an incredible place to stop and explore some of Morocco’s finest bazaars. Just be sure to watch out for large tourist crowds and hustlers. You’ll be asountded by the beautiful silks, woven baskets and foods waiting to be discovered;

• Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site found not far off the N9. The village lies along the Ourzazate River and is a welcoming destination for those wishing to explore culture outside the big city;

• Tangiers is another famous Moroccan town and has historically been incredibly popular amongst writers, artists, and musicians, especially in the first half of the 1900’s;

• Essaouira is a beautiful harbor town you won’t want to miss. A relaxing afternoon in a caf? after a morning of watersports or photography should top your agenda. This is the perfect Moroccan destination for anyone who wants to spend a day or two in complete relaxation.

These are, of course, only a sample of the incredible destinations you’ll find throughout Morocco. No matter where you end up you’re sure to be greeted by friendly locals and fellow tourists. Make sure you research local traffic laws, check your car for defects before hitting the road, and mark your destinations on the road map before you embark. Your road trip through Morocco will be the trip of a lifetime!

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While scaling this epic mountain isn’t as difficult as climbing something like Mount Everest, it’s still a strenuous task that should be taken very seriously. We’ve put together a list of things you should keep in mind as you prepare for an adventure that is bound to be one of the most exciting of your life.

Before Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

As we noted, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a strenuous task. While you won’t need fancy mountain climbing equipment, the hike will require strong legs and a good deal of stamina. This sort of hike is not recommended for beginners. Before you attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro you should complete a few hikes on local trails. Make sure you follow some of the more advanced trails in your area to ensure you have the endurance and strength to make it up the mountain.

Another important consideration is whether or not you might succumb to a condition known as altitude sickness. Because of a mountain’s high elevation, many find that it is more difficult to breathe the higher up the go. Have you attempted to hike mountain paths in Denver, Colorado or any other nearby mountain range of high elevation? If not, don’t waste your money on a trip to Tanzania until you’re sure you will be able to handle the changes in pressure.

Lastly, you absolutely must make sure you’re up to date on all of your vaccinations before traveling to Africa. Diseases such as Malaria are still running rampant in the sub-Saharan and there are dozens of vaccinations you should have before you visit. A trip to Mount Kilimanjaro won’t be possible if you can’t handle a rousing round of shots.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Unfortunately, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t something you’ll be able to do on your own. Government regulations in the mountain’s national park mandate group travel with an established expedition group.

Your hike will begin in Arusha, the second largest city in Tanzania. Your group will choose a route, each varying in intensity and accommodations. If you’d prefer to sleep in a cabin each night you’d probably prefer the Coca Cola Route, where you’ll find them littered along the paths. The opposite side of the mountain is where you’ll find the Rongai Route, which is a little bumpier and much less accommodating.

Be prepared for climate changes as you make your assent. At the base of the mountain you’ll find yourself in a lush tropical environment, but as you hike along the path you’ll find the temperature gradually decreasing. You’ll want to dress in layers so that you can handle the fluctuating temperatures and you’ll definitely need to add them as you get closer to the top.

Make sure your water bottle is well-insulated. You may want cooler water during the day, but there’s nothing worse than waking up in the morning to find your only source of hydration has frozen solid. Those carrying cameras should keep spare batteries well insulated or close to their bodies as well. It’s not uncommon for batteries to freeze in the harsh, cold temperatures as well.

Believe it or not, most of your actual climbing will happen at night when temperatures are more comfortable for climbing. Include a headlamp on the list of essential hiking gear you purchase before your trip. There are no streetlights along these paths, so you’ll need both the lamp and flashlights as you hike the mountain paths in the black of night.

Fortunately, you won’t find it necessary to carry all of your gear throughout the entire hike. You’re going to want to focus all of your energy on the hike itself, and most of the expedition groups traveling up Mount Kilimanjaro make arrangements to carry your luggage and equipment for you. They’ll even pitch tents and feed you delicious hot meals three times a day. That means you’ll only need to keep your essentials close at hand. What more could you ask for on what is otherwise a physically exhausting excursion?

After Your Excursion up Mount Kilimanjaro

No matter how much rest you get each evening you’re bound to be exhausted once you climb and descent the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Make sure you give your body plenty of time to rest and adjust before you head off on your next sub-Saharan African adventure.

There’s plenty to see in the Serengeti but you’ll be miserable if you attempt too much in too little time. We highly recommend stopping off at the Moivaro Coffee Lodge for a few nights before heading to your next destination. You’ll have an opportunity to relax, reflect on your stunning experience, and recharge before you move on to create more wonder memories of your time in Africa!

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Here are some of the best safari destinations outside of the top two in Africa – Masai Mara in Kenya and Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti ecosystem evokes a ton of romantic sentiment among those who long to visit Africa. The national park that bears the same name in Tanzania is the ideal place to touch down and take in all the splendid landscape has to offer. The traditional home of the Maasai people covers almost 15,000 km2 of savanna grassland and contains, in addition to the Big 5, a huge population of endemic bird life, giraffe, gazelle and cheetah. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Serengeti National Park is a treasure in lush Tanzania.

Loango National Park, Gabon

Relatively obscure by comparison, Loango National Park in beautiful Gabon is a coastal reserve for native fauna and flora. A peerless lagoon system in the park provides a phenomenal natural wonder for visitors. With a reputation as the “last Eden” on the continent, Loango boasts mangrove forests, a playful hippopotamus population, gorillas, elephants, leopards and even diverse whale life off a pristine span of white sand beach. With a mindset toward conservation via tourism investment, Loango National Park is model to follow.

Etosha National Park, Namibia

With a history that dates back over one-hundred years when Namibia was a colony of Germany, the massive 22,270 km2 Etosha National Park is part salt pan desert in the Kalahari Basin. The vast majority of tourism to the park centers around the small and fragile black rhinoceros population, in addition to impala, flamingo and pelican. The paramount preservation area has a fortuitous location on the southern Atlantic coast in Namibia, where the landscape is particularly brilliant.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides Uganda with terrific allure in only 331 km2. The foremost sanctuary is home to a dizzying array of wildlife, with 346 species of birds, 120 species of mammals and myriad reptiles, insects and plant life. Bwindi is most famous however, for mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and colorful colobus monkeys, whose populations teeter on the brink of extreme vulnerability. While animal preservation is key in the park, protection of the biologically rich and rare primary forests is perhaps the most fundamental mission in Bwindi.

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Botswana has famously, one of the most dense confluences of game on the entire continent of Africa. The 11,700 km2 Chobe National Park was the country’s first, and with four precise ecosystems, offers superlative biodiversity to safari tourists. In addition to wildlife, actual towns reside in the massive conservation area. Genuine bushmen history and tours are on tap for those who want to explore attractions beyond elephant, warthog, wild dog, antelope, lion, zebra and crocodile populations.

Kafue National Park, Zambia

At 22,400 km2, Kafue National Park is about the size of Wales. Rather remarkable if you think about it. As a result, the colossal swath of wildlife preservation ground is about as good as a safari holiday can get. The namesake of the Kafue River, the park spans three provinces in gorgeous Zambia, where pristine Zambezi flooded grasslands provide a verdant and lush environment for herbivore herds and hungry predators. From cat-like caracals to otters, cheetahs and steenboks, in addition to reptiles and birds, Kafue National Park puts city zoos around the world to shame.

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Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Located in Lonehill, South Africa, the Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is located in the center of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve on the edge of Kruger National Park. The reserve is home to two lodges: The Rock Lodge and the Safari Lodge. The Rock Lodge is located at the top of a rocky hill, giving you a spectacular view of the entire reserve as you relax in between safari’s, game trips, or spa time.

The Safari Lodge lies on the banks of the Mabrak river, which is now dry. Guests may participate in walking safaris or participate in active discussions regarding the wildlife seen in the area. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see some of the local animals pass by your tree-house lodge on the way to the closest watering hole. All safaris here are guided by experienced rangers.

Kagga Kamma Private Game Reserve

The Kagga Kamma Private Game Reserve is located in the Cedeberg Mountains of Kagga Kamma, South Africa. Visitors to the reserve will find plenty to occupy their time, including guided tours, bike safaris, early morning or evening game drives. You’re almost guaranteed at least one sighting of the black wildebeest, zebra, gemsbok, springbok, ostrich, and more.

Spend the evening in the mini-observatory where the staff will help you to identify the planets you’re watching. The site used to be the home of the Bushmen, so be sure to take a tour of the local paintings and cultural icons. At the end of the day you will relax in your private suite, modeled to blend in with the surroundings and look like a cave!

Makweti Safari Lodge

The Makweti Safari Lodge in Northern Province, South Africa guarantees privacy, romance, and excitement rolled into one. Your tree-house style suite is secluded from your neighbors by a row of plant-life, giving you the opportunity to enjoy your fireplace and deck in comfort and style. Suites also include both indoor and outdoor showers, Victorian bathtubs, and beautiful furnishings. Your reservation will include all of your meals and refreshments, two guided safari activities of your choice, and travel to and from the main gate of the Welgevonden Game Reserve.

Giraffe Manor

The Giraffe Manor calls 120 acres of land in Nairobi, Kenya home. The manor is famous because of a herd of giraffes that calls the acreage home. Giraffe Manor was originally built in 1932. The Rothschild Giraffe was moved to the manor in 1974 after losing its habitat in western Kenya. At the time, the species was considered endangered but they were cared for by the then current owners Jock Leslie Melville and his wife Betty.

Betty returned to the US in 1984, after the death of her husband. Before she left, she opened Giraffe Manor to visitors. There are only six rooms within the manor, but each is more luxurious than the next and can easily be adjusted to accommodate families. Your rates include your room, meals, entrance to the Giraffe Centre, and a vehicle with guide.

Ngong House

Ngong House, situated in Nairobi, Kenya, provides amazing luxury tree house accommodations, each raised at least 15 feet from the ground. The lodge includes five beautifully designed tree houses, a private cottage, a log cabin perfect for a vacationing family, or a main house suite that is easily accessible to those with special needs. The friendly staff at Ngong House will arrange for your safari excursions, though you will be expected to pay entrance fees to the game reserves or Giraffe Centre separately. Amazing attractions include the Karen Blixen House, The Elephant and Rhino Orphanage, and Snake Park, amongst many others.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

The lodge in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe lies directly on the border of Zimbabwe National Park. This lodge is unique in that in addition to walking or driving tours, guests are invited to enjoy less traditional activities such as rafting or canoeing. The lodge is located near a watering hole, so you won’t have to go far at all to see buffalo, elephants, and kudu as they will likely find their way to you. Every room in the lodge has a private balcony, perfect for enjoying the amazing sunset over the park.

Phinda Forest Lodge

The Phinda Forest Lodge is situated on the coast of Matutaland in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa. Visitors may choose to participate in safaris or game drives in addition to snorkeling or diving excursions! The walls of the lodge bedrooms are made of floor-to-ceiling glass, allowing inhabitants to remain completely immersed in the forest and wildlife. Wouldn’t it be amazing to wake up to see a white rhino or cheetah outside your window?

While these aren’t the only lodges available in Africa, they are certainly some of the most luxurious and accommodating. Relax and take the time to appreciate the awesome power of the land and its inhabitants!

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