my trip to africa essay

African Adventure Trip Essay

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Africa is a lovely continent with humble people who love tourists and guests. My greatest adventure was a trip to the Masai Mara in Kenya, Africa, to witness the September Wildebeest migration across the river Mara. This trip was not planned, since things just happened and I found myself on a one week holiday in Kenya. One of my elder sisters is a co-founder of one child home in Kenya that handles the welfare of children in conflict. My parents received word that the wildebeest migration was about to start, and they decided to pay my sister a visit while exploring the country.

The trip to Kenya was a rather long one, going through the UK and Egypt before landing in Kenya. Our sister received us at the airport and directed us to a hotel where we would be staying for the duration of our visit. Being in a different country felt exciting, and I could immediately note the differences between the two countries. We arrived at night, around 10 pm. The road to our place of accommodation was smooth. Vehicles were moving on the left-hand side, and the driver’s seat was on the right of the vehicles.

On the first day of our visit to Kenya, we booked a tour guide to the Mara in the morning and spent the afternoon with children at the children’s home, playing and hanging out with them. The children were warm and receptive to us, probably because they were used to being visited by many different people. The children’s home was located in a town called Thika, 40 Km from the capital, Nairobi. Most of the buildings were less than ten story’s high, and the people were unusually friendly, which made it easy for us to adjust. On the second day, our tour vehicle came for us at the hotel where we were staying, and the exciting adventure started.

The trip included a tour of the Great Rift Valley as we made our way to the Masai Mara, where we would set up tents for two nights. The brochures promised us a thrilling adventure that would see us explore a diverse wilderness comprising acacia trees and a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, lions, rhinos, antelopes, and baboons, among others. The climax of the trip would be the wildebeest crossing the Mara River, a phenomenon that was identified as the eighth wonder of the world.

Our first stop was in a place called Mai Mahiu, where we enjoyed the lovely scenery of the Rift Valley Escarpment and various mountains, including Mt. Longonot. We then proceeded to Nakuru town, a four-hour drive from Nairobi town. We stopped at the lake Nakuru national park, which is a leading bird sanctuary with an abundance of flamingoes and home to the Rothschild giraffe. There were other tourists at the place, most of whom had booked accommodation in Nakuru town.

The national language in Kenya is Swahili; therefore, I had with me a Swahili-English dictionary so that I could catch on to Swahili words faster. For instance, words like “Jambo” and “Habari yako” were commonly used as a salutation, meaning “hallo” with the response being “mauri Sana,” meaning “fine.” Other wildlife at the Nakuru national park included waterbucks and rhinos. We spent the night in Nakuru, before proceeding the next day to Kisumu town, the birth town for the US president’s, Barack Obama, father.

There were several stops to enjoy the beautiful scenery comprising mainly of tea plantations in Kericho. We also made a stopover at a famous village town known as Kogelo, where we enjoyed a delicious meal of tilapia fish. Afterward, we proceeded to the famous Masai Mara Game Reserve. We arrived in time to enjoy an evening drive in reserve. There were many animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, gazelles, impala, ostrich, and wildebeest. We also met the Masai community, one of the many Kenyan tribes who live inside the reserve.

The highlight of our safari was witnessing the famous annual migration. In the migration, there were thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River as they escape dry conditions in western Serengeti, Tanzania. This was quite a spectacle as hundreds of animals were captured by hungry crocodiles in the river. The Mara River had strong currents, and some animals, especially the young ones, were carried away by the river, giving the crocodiles easy prey. This was quite exciting, as we took pictures and shot videos of the spectacle.

While the migration provided a breathtaking scenery, the entire Mara game reserve was beautiful, with a variety of animals, including the big five, namely the lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant. During our short tour of the Mara, we did not manage to see a predator kill an animal, but we witnessed several chases, which were terribly exciting. On the fourth and last day of our tour, we took an early morning tour of the game reserve in order to take amusing photos of the wildlife and scenery.

The highlight of our African safari was witnessing the wildebeest migration as the zebras and wildebeest crossing the Mara River from Tanzania into the greener Mara game reserve. It was also exciting to see the predators prey on antelopes and even bigger animals. We were not allowed to leave our tour vehicles for safety measures but enjoyed every bit of the trip. The Mara was certainly a case of saving the best for last.

On our way back to Nairobi, there were fewer stops as we reminisced on our fun-filled safari. I was almost sad that our trip to the country had come to an end, but at least we had some photos and videos to remind us of the fun we had. It was certainly enjoyable to see wild animals in their natural habitat, as opposed to seeing them in an orphanage. It was during the safari that I made sense of the meaning of natural selection and adaptation for survival.

There are obviously a lot more fun-filled adventures for young people like me, like kayaking, hiking, mountain climbing, and flying in balloons, among others that I would like to explore in the future. I would also recommend to my friends a visit to the game reserves in Africa. The safaris are a great way for people to interact with nature and to understand why we need to conserve our environment. The next adventure that I embark on will probably involve a sport like kayaking or sky diving for some adrenaline rush.

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IvyPanda. (2021, February 20). African Adventure Trip. https://ivypanda.com/essays/african-adventure-trip/

"African Adventure Trip." IvyPanda , 20 Feb. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/african-adventure-trip/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'African Adventure Trip'. 20 February.

IvyPanda . 2021. "African Adventure Trip." February 20, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/african-adventure-trip/.

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Bibliography

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How a Trip to Maasai Mara Changed my Life

By malav shah, last updated: 05 jul 2021.

My rendezvous with wildlife started way back when I was a kid. Pictures of wildlife always fascinated me and more often than not, it would be of the African continent. Unconsciously, I started dreaming of this experience hoping that one day I will make this dream come true. The course of life took over and many years later I had the opportunity to make this dream a reality. By then my daughter was old enough to appreciate and enjoy a trip to Africa and that is when this incredible journey began.

So far in a magazine, now in front of my eyes!

Soon I realized that there is a major gap I can fill with my extensive experience in Africa. This got me excited as I could envision a possibility of making my wish come true, going back to Africa again and again. I sensed that my immense experience with the country and deep understanding of the flora & fauna could be valuable to other travelers in creating unique life-changing experiences. Coincidently, travelers started reaching out to me to help curate their travel. So, organically, I started curating bespoke African experiences for travelers seeking more than just a holiday. I usually travel with my clients, which is an added advantage for travelers. I not only take care of all the logistics but also have a treasure trove of experiences that will help shape theirs. What's more...I speak Swahili fluently, which gives me a huge advantage with the locals in gaining their trust. So much for my story. Let's get to the crux, the experience.

A stunning panoramic view of Maasai Mara at dusk

It is generally believed that when on a safari in Africa, spotting "the Big 5" means your trip is successful. Well, that is indeed a surreal experience but immersing yourself in the ecosystem of the reserve and experiencing the vibe is equally a successful safari. There are numerous types of safaris that one can sign up for from a couple of hours to many days. It all depends on your interest and of course the depth of your wallet. There are flying safaris where tourists are taken from one park to the other in small aircrafts. Lodges get together and form small airstrips to facilitate landing of these aircrafts. The more common and pocket-friendly are the ground safaris where you move around in vehicles. There are several types of vehicles used like 4-wheel drives, open jeeps etc. In Kenya the most common is the Kombi Safari, a 2-wheel drive which opens from the top giving the tourists a 360 view. One can enter the reserve through several gates namely, Sekenani Gate, Talek Gate, Musiara Gate, Oloololo Gate, Oloolaimutia Gate and Sand River Gate.

Kombi Safari, the perfect vehicle for a safari

Once inside the reserve, every nook and corner is packed with activity and has a story to tell. You enter into an ecosystem that is intriguing and fascinating. My years of experience with Africa give me the advantage to unravel stories about this ecosystem that comes only with interest and experience. Sightings are generally associated with spotting the larger animals. While that is always exciting, observing the smaller creatures and the landscape gives you a deeper understanding of the interesting ecosystem. The presence of one animal could mean others are around. One time, we chanced upon a herd of hippos chilling in a water body. While the travelers were busy capturing this sight on their cameras, I scanned the surroundings and right enough, spotted a leopard perched on a tree, probably strategizing its next meal.

The elusive leopard camouflaged on the tree

Moving on, we spotted a huge termite mound with some visitors, the Egyptian Geese. Termites mounds are very common and termites play a very important role in the ecosystem of the reserve. They are natural cleaners because they eat all the forest debris and are also protein-rich food for the birds.

Egyptian Geese perched on a huge mound of food, termites!

Another rather interesting sighting was that of the heaviest land animal, an elephant herd with the matriarch (the female) taking the lead. They move across the reserve in herds gorging on vegetation. Invariably there are cattle egrets around, wondering why? The heavy shuffling of elephants ruffles the ground disturbing the insects, which make for a yummy meal for the egrets.

Tuskers are beating the heat with natural sunscreen, Sand!

Interestingly, sometimes elephants look dark grey and sometimes they seem brown. The color is specific to the part of the reserve they are seen in. When they are in the marshy areas they walk through water and spot their natural color but when they are in the sandy plains, they sprinkle mud on themselves as "sunscreen" giving them the brown look. Seeing the same animal in different landscapes is a unique experience and this is something only an expert will be able to explain.

An amazing sight of an elephant herd, family and all

Part of a safari is a visit to a Maasai village. This is organized by getting approval from the leader of the clan. Of course there is a fee but it is well worth the money. The mud houses, the tribal music, the traditional attire, rich & unique culture and their animals, all create an amazing ambience. The tribes celebrate every stage of human life with elaborate festivities. They have rituals and dances for birth, adulthood, marriage, death etc. which they perform with fervor. Their lifeline is their animals which play a very important role in their lives. The status of a tribal family is judged by the number of animals they have. A tribal experience is a MUST when in Africa, but make sure you go with a vetted resource.

A typical dance of adulthood includes jumping few feet above the ground exhibiting vigor and youthfulness

Spotting the African Cape Buffalo, one of the Big 5 is exciting and intimidating at the same time. A word of caution here, do not take them for granted. They are the most dangerous animals on-ground to mess with and are known to charge at people and kill them. Interestingly, there is a beautiful interdependence that one can see. Very often, you will see birds hitching a ride on the buffalo. In return for the ride, the birds offer grooming services (actually they are enjoying a meal). Technically known as cleaning symbiosis, it is a process where the birds eat the parasites off the body of the buffalo, making it a mutually beneficial activity. Amazing how the ecosystem works!

African Buffalo enjoying a grooming session by the red-billed ox-pecker, who is enjoying a meal, the ticks on the buffalo.

When you see the big spotted cat, how do you know which one it is? The common man finds it hard to differentiate between a leopard, cheetah, jaguar and panther. My years of traveling in Africa have given me immense knowledge and that is what comes in handy to address tourists. While panther, jaguar and leopard belong to one family, the cheetah belongs to a different family. There are numerous ways to distinguish one from the other but here are the two most prominent differences. The cheetah will have tear marks extending from the eyes going down to their mouth and their body has spots. In a leopard there are rosettes. There are numerous other distinctions that I have learned over the years, but we'll save that for some other time.

A cheetah relaxing and observing its visitors

While the land is endowed with numerous wildlife the trees and skies are equally decorated with exotic avian populace. There are a variety of lapwings, vultures, kori bustard, herons, silver bird, egrets, peckers, and hornbill just to name a few. They are a critical part of the Mara ecosystem with each having a unique role to play. A rather uncommon sight was that of a hornbill that was flying around actively collecting something and returning to the tree. My guess is there were nestlings that the parent was taking care of. Normally, these birds are seen on the ground.

Hornbill parent busy taking care of its babies

I could go on and on with my experiences of the Mara but somewhere this story has to end. What I will say is, if ever you do get a chance, Africa is a MUST visit. The culture, the people and the immensely rich reserves will blow your mind and create a lasting impression on you. It is an experience that will stay with you forever. Every time I complete my journey in this beautiful land and return home, I feel my heart is still beating to the drums of Africa. Muda mrefu Afrika, until we meet again, soon!

Disclaimer: This blog may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may get a small commission if you buy anything. All products and services we endorse have been personally used or come highly recommended to us. These incomes allow us to keep the community supported and ad-free.

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Passionately in love with Africa, Malav plans and executes bespoke safaris to AFRICA. Focused on 'only Africa', Malav is a specialist in chalking out tailormade plans which suits to the exact requirements of the clients. Travelling along with the clients since 2007, having massive experience, Malav has gained nothing below 'excellent' as testimonials. With the goal of adding loads of value to the itinerary, Malav gives a unique experience, an experience which his clients keeps it in their minds and sould to cherish it for the lifetime. 

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Please share your comment.

Beautiful story that talks about the wild beauty of Kenya.

Thank you for sharing about this beautiful wildlife location.

Kenyan parks never disappoint. The sandy beaches in Mombasa,Malindi,Watamu, Takawiri Island are amazing.

What a wonderful story with awesome pictures! Looking forward to connecting with you for our future visit.

It is indeed an experience of a lifetime. Ecosystem of Maasai Mara is well explained, thank you for sharing these pictures.

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I loved Cape Town so much I couldn’t leave

Home » Blog » Accommodation » I loved Cape Town so much I couldn’t leave

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Somehow I missed the memo that Cape Town is the coolest city ever!

So when I stumbled off the plane from Durban, hungover as hell, I was pleasantly surprised and immediately blown away by this sprawling metropolis at the edge of the world. Holy shit Cape Town, South Africa is all kinds of pretty!

A country girl at heart, I am not usually a fan of big cities but when there are plenty of green places and designed in a way that makes me feel like I’m not in a city, I’m a fan. Cape Town luckily ticks all those boxes, and even reminded me a bit of Wellington, New Zealand where I used to live. Just with more crazy wildlife.

It spreads out all along a wild and beautiful coastline with sandy white beaches, cute little surf suburbs with the iconic Table Mountain looming above you in the background.

Downtown Cape Town is beautiful, and the harbor area is one of the nicest I’ve seen with amazing shopping OOPS. It doesn’t take a lot to understand why the most expensive real estate in Africa is here.

On my first trip over to South Africa , Cape Town was the first stop after a long conference in Durban. And trust me, I was basically sobbing when we had to leave after only 3 days. Couldn’t I just stay here the whole time?

As my time in Africa was drawing to a close, I made a hasty decision outside a market in Joburg. I wasn’t ready to leave. Have you guys ever felt that way about a place?

So I did the only sensible thing, rang the agent that booked my tickets and changed my flights giving myself an extra week and a half in Africa. First I headed out to Phinda , an amazing safari reserve, and then booked myself a ticket back to Cape Town.

Sometimes you have to listen to that inner voice when you love a place so much and can’t bear to leave. And ok, I’ll admit I’m lucky in that I had a pretty flexible schedule at the time and was able to do this. Wahoo internet jobs!

Luckily I was able to time my return to Cape Town when my friends Hecktic Travels were in town on a stopover on their way to Namibia.

Cue long dinners, cocktails in Camps Bay, road trips and photo sessions, plus lots and lots of coffee and catch ups. While Cape Town certainly has heaps of things to do, I found myself just enjoying being there, going for walks and exploring. It’s a great city just to be in, not necessarily be busy in.

Here is my little introduction to this glorious city with 10 things that helped make me fall in love with Cape Town.

1. Table Mountain

It’s no secret, I love mountains so to be a really cool and fun hip city with an amazing mountain backdrop, is definitely the best of both worlds. With straight cliffs and a long flat summit, it didn’t take long to understand its name.

We headed up first thing in the morning back through the winding streets leading to the base of the cableway, the easiest way to get to the top. There was beautiful mist layering over the town giving a great ephemeral feel to the start of the day.

As we walked out on top, I promptly lost my shit when I spotted a dassie for the first time. A fat little groundhog looking animal, it is adorable and I spent the next 20 minutes taking photos of them instead of admiring the view. Typical.

2. Dinner with a local family

For me, this was probably one of my favorite parts of our time in Cape Town.

Hosted dinners with local families is now a popular way to get to know the city.  When you are visiting a place for only a few days, it’s often quite hard to find opportunities to get to know the locals and get a glimpse into what life is really like there.

We were kindly invited to the home of a local musician who not only treated us to an amazing traditional dinner with his wife, but also rocked out with us all evening to the most beautiful music.

3. Staying at the One & Only Cape Town

It’s not every day that I get to stay in a 6 star hotel! Holy moley! If they only knew what I was really like, would they have let me in?

The One & Only Cape Town is part of the One & Only resort chain, and their South Africa property doesn’t fail to impress.

The biggest coziest bed ever complete with a pillow menu, great internet, a huge bathtub and an espresso machine – what more could I want?

I pretty much live in hotels with my job, and getting to stay in places like this is definitely a perk that comes with being a professional travel blogger.

At the risk of sounding snobby, while it was an amazing property, I didn’t feel like 6 stars to me until the first breakfast when I discovered not only champagne and oysters, order off the menu, any coffee you want, and oh, the crispy bacon or grilled bacon station.

Yes, 6 stars or sure!

4. Penguins on the beach!

My oh my! You guys know how much of a #BirdNerd I am, so when I first started researching Cape Town and realized there was a beach nearby home to a colony of penguins, I knew I had to make it happen!

Boulders Beach is near Simon’s Town is home to a colony of Africa Penguins, and they are adorable!

And luck was on my side because not only was the beautiful beach covered in penguins, there were fluffy molting babies everywhere! There is a god and he heard my prayers!

Show me the penguin babies!

I’m not going to lie, I loved it so much I went twice!

All the amazing seafood, all the time, nuff said.

6. Saturday Market

Another reason I was so happy to come back to Cape Town was that it gave me the opportunity to meet up with a few of you guys. I got an email from a kiwi expat living over in Cape Town who had spent a lot of time in Wanaka so it was a great opportunity to see the side of the city I probably wouldn’t have known about and hang out with a local.

The Oranjezicht City Farmer’s Market is super cute and in a beautiful part of town. Even though it drizzled the whole time, there were tents everywhere and so much delicious food and coffee, you hardly noticed.

This market has an amazing story – it was meant to be shut down before it was saved at the last minute and now takes place on the premier’s own gardens in Cape Town, which means its setting couldn’t be more picturesque.

7. Cape of Good Hope

I met up with the Hecks who rented a car and we hit the road for the day. First stop – back to the penguins obviously.

From there we headed to the Cape of Good Hope to live out our elementary school geography dreams. Nothing like finally laying eyes on a place you’ve heard about your whole lives, right guys?

Did I mention there are wild ostriches there? And baboons.

Run for your lives!

8. Chapman’s Peak Drive

On the way back to the city from the Cape Peninsula in the moody late afternoon light, we decided to take in the beautiful Chapman’s Peak Drive on the west coast.

I love a good road trip with friends!

And holy crap did this road not disappoint!

The 9km of road connecting Noordhoek and Hout Bay is pretty stunning.

Picture huge cliffs dropping down to the turquoise sea and crazy bends and turns with more lookouts and views than you could ever hope for. Don’t forget your camera.

As we turned the corner to head back to Cape Town, the sun began to shine through the peaks lighting up the houses below and creating those beams of light that I am obsessed with. What a way to close the trip!

9. Sunsquare Cape Town

I also wanted to mention on my second trip back to Cape Town I had to forgo the 6 star hotel for something more in my range and budget, the Sunsquare Cape Town .

Near the Gardens area of Cape Town, it’s in a really cool part of town with an amazing breakfast.

10. Sunset cruise

The perfect introduction to Cape Town is a sunset cruise in the harbor accompanied by a few breaching whales and champagne.

Sigh, Cape Town, you rock!

Have you ever felt this way about a place? Ever been to Cape Town? Ever changed your flights so that you didn’t have to leave a place?

Many thanks to V isit South Africa and Cape Town Tourism for hosting me in Cape Town. Like always, I’m keeping it real – all opinions are my own, like you could expect anything less from me. 

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So nice, your Pictures made me want to go there RIGHT now ! 😉

Yay love that!

I am single

I heard so many great things about South Africa and Cape Town and dinner with a local family is definitely something I want to try one day! The penguins are so adorable 😀

Such a good way to experience the place!

As always, fab post! I love the idea of joining a dinner with locals – looked fun and a great way to mix with the locals! 🙂

Also…how on earth did you manage to get the cutest penguin pics?!

haha I made everyone wait while I took about 1000 shots of them haha

Love the photos! Cape Town is a magical city, and I’m in the same boat… not a city person either. I spent two months in Africa last year, visiting several places and I had a really hard time leaving at the end.

It’s magical, isn’t it?

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Emails Suck. Mine Don't.

What I did this summer (a Kruger Park essay) – Part 2

In which duncan arrives at the park.

(after a five hour stint on the road,

and about 27 000 mosquitoes,

and one guy with an incredibly large shotgun)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________A lot of safari travelers don't realise, amidst stocking up on Tabard, and rifling through their underwear drawers in search of that elusive pair of khaki briefs (the kind mom said to wear if you ever thought you'd get eaten by lions), is that there's a reason these parks seem so untouched by modern living -

It's because they're out in the middle of nowhere.

After a brief, delightful breakfast at the Outlook Lodge, my group (myself and an older couple from the UK on their honeymoon, the Wards) met up with our ranger, Hulke . Side note: Hulke, if you ever read this, I would like to apologise now for the way I've spelled your first name. I googled and googled , but with no luck whatsoever on your elusive and subtly difficult name.The next quarter of my group's members were introduced to me after we picked them up on the way: Indian-Australian holiday makers, the Kharodia family, down in Africa on a mission to introduce their son, Adam, to the wilds of the Kruger National Park , before taking a round-about trip via ferry, airplane and assorted rental cars, around Cape Town and Port Elizabeth before heading back home. Introductions made, and excited questioning about his job out of the way, our near-complete safari group made our  way down the N12 passage, and onwards to the Kruger...______________________________________________________________________________________________________...and five hours later, the sun coming in through my window had burned my Lilli-white left arm into a red-nose-day-red crispy version of its former glory. Also, we'd arrived!

The Northern Cape around summer time is home to many mosquitoes.  I mean, an absurd number of mozzies. We'd swatted our way throughout the trip, most of us resigned to the reality of a warm, humid climate, in a country where the trade-off is gorgeous scenery, rich history, and the long awaited Skukuza rest camp ! Regardless, we were all thankful for the brief reprieve from the buzzing while we unpacked and wandered around the camp foyer, stretching our city legs on the dusty Skukuza parking lot.

Shown to our rooms,

we were given the low-down on where to report (camp post on the corner), at what time to report (thirty minutes from now roughly - you might want to grab a shower, in the meantime), and where we could get beer and braai materials. Then Hulke left us to our own devices. Skukuza camp , as I would learn over the next few days, is quiet around the beginning of the year. Tourists often abandon their bush soaked ideals of the African holiday for hotels, rental cars and John Dory's dinners out in the bustling city of wherever, and many of the actual South Africans who've spent time out there for the holidays have jobs to get back to in those exact same bustling cities. So, the remainder of the camp's christmas-time guests turned out to be a handful of sunburned Swedish holiday makers, their kids, and random spatterings of last-man-standing South Africans, out for that elusive leopard spotting.The camp was quiet, and extremely beautiful.We left at 15:30 sharp for our afternoon drive with Robin, our official guide for the at-camp portion of our trip. What was our introductory trip into the outlying bushveld of the Skukuza camp area, turned out to be full of surprises. Out in the mid-day sun, we came across a group of four lionesses basking in the bushveld on the side of the road, unperturbed by the small group of land rovers that had gathered directly opposite to talk in hushed tones and point cameras. [[my apologies for the quality of these pictures - my camera did not appreciate the bush lighting]]

The rest of the trip included encounters with local baboons , elephants (actually the first animals we saw on our way out - they're every bit as huge as they look in photos), a brief sighting of the rear-end of a giraffe as it disappeared into the bush, impala every where (Robin called them the Mc Donald's burgers of the bush, you really can't go anywhere without seeing them), some Marabou Stork and Cape Turtle Dove , and one wildebeest , minutes away from our return to camp.Once back at camp, I met up with the remainder of my group - the Riis-Vestergaards, a Danish couple, down in Johannesburg for a few days before Vagn, the husband was set to run a company marathon. They were my immediate neighbours, and I would often seek them out at night while trying to find my way back to my bungalow in the pitch black dark of the bush.After a warm meal at the group's camping area, we all traded stories about the day's events over a bottle of wine. Vagn had been out the day before we arrived and had two riveting encounters during his trip: filming a male elephant grazing in the bush, Vagn and Robin had suddenly been charged by the bull, in a show of aggression that he would chuckle nervously about over the next two days. He had also spotted a leopard making a kill, a sighting many tourists will wait forever to make.Blindly entering my bungalow after dinner, I made my way into the comfortable single bed, shut off the light, and was out before my head hit the pillow.[[Stay tuned for day 3 of my story, following soon]]

OH! The guy with the shotgun I mentioned earlier? Not even in the park, it was a park security guard taking his lunch break at the Total Garage Quick-Stop near middleburg. Seriously, though, this thing looked like an anti-aircraft rifle - what kinds of giant robots are these guys protecting the park from, anyway?

Ok, it wasn't quite this big, but pretty close.

Be sure to check out Part Three of my experience in the Kruger!

https://www.safari.com/travel-blog/853-2/

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A first-timer's trip to South Africa

Buzzing energy, palm tree-fringed roads, mountain views—south africa was everything i hoped for and more. .

In 2014, I stumbled on a flight deal to South Africa and without hesitation, I booked it. This was my first trip to Africa, something that I had been eager to do since I’d become an avid traveler. Immediate elation, the pent-up emotions from decades of longing, curiosity and (mis)education of Africa, and being physically disconnected from this seemingly elusive continent that felt so far beyond reach yet so connected to my lineage, all began to rush over me. 

I realized that I had been carrying mental baggage of what I felt was my duty as a Black person in the diaspora going to Africa, particularly, the first person that I knew in my network to do so. I felt overwhelmed by what this trip symbolized and how deeply I desired for it to be a meaningful exchange. A friend of mine, who is of South African descent, gave me this simple but profound advice–to have a vacation the same way that I would anywhere else that I’ve visited in the world. Her words provided great relief and perspective as I embarked on my journey to South Africa.

What I recommend for first timers

As soon as I touched down, I felt an affinity to South Africa that I still have today. The buzzing energy and artist scene of Johannesburg is much like New York City, the zen of Cape Town with its palm tree-fringed roads and mountain views are reminiscent of Los Angeles, and nights in Durban can feel much like Miami or New Orleans.

If you love the hustle and energy of a bustling city, the constant on-the-go pulse where a day of shopping, museums and other cultural experiences is bookended with brunch in the morning and late-night partying in the night, Johannesburg is for you. Be sure to check out the Apartheid Museum for an important history of race relations in South Africa that still shape the dynamics of the country today. A tour of Soweto will give you great scope of local culture and history and a visit to Nelson Mandela’s childhood home. Maboneng District is a must for countless boutiques and dining options. On Saturdays in Braamfontein, The Playground (formerly known as Neighbourgoods Market), is where local artisans sell traditional South African dishes and global cuisine, clothing,  and other items. The rooftop brunch here transforms into one of the city’s best day parties, where popular DJs and Joburg’s most fashionable dance the day away.

If a slightly slower pace, scenic views, beaches and endless wine-tasting is more your speed, be sure to check out Cape Town. The city is located at the most southern point of Africa, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean. Its hilly terrain provides impressive views at ground level, where you can see mountain peaks at just about every turn. The winding cliffside roads of Chapman’s Peak, and 1,000 meters up atop Table Mountain, provide unobstructed, panoramic views of the city and coast. Don’t miss Fish Hoek beach town which offers kayaking, sailing and surfing, or the white sandy beach, colorful beach huts and fish and chip stalls of Muizenberg . Bo-Kaap is best known for its brightly painted, colorful homes, and Boulders Beach provides an up-close experience with African penguins. 

South Africa also offers several diverse safari experiences. Choose a day trip option from either Cape Town or Johannesburg with five-star rated Felleng Tours , or, for true adventure seekers and animal lovers, opt for an unforgettable overnight stay at Black woman-owned Miarestate , situated on 7.4 square kilometers of wild bushland. 

Get to know the people

Along with the sheer diversity of experiences, I truly fell in love with South Africa through the eyes of residents—some of whom I remain friends with today. New friends in Johannesburg took me to Sakhumzi (right across the street from Nelson Mandela’s home ), where we hung out for hours, laughing and learning from each other’s cultures and experiences while downing Savannah beers. While aimlessly strolling and snapping photos around the Bo-Kaap in Cape Town, a man who stood on his porch rocking his infant signaled for us to come over and start a conversation. Though we had seen and experienced a lot, he felt it was a shame that we had not driven down the Cape Coast to take in its sweeping views, had malva pudding at his favorite lunch spot and visited his favorite markets, so he offered to give us a personal tour. Not only did it result in the best day in Cape Town, but at the end of it, he surprised us with an invitation to join his family for dinner in his home, which turned out to be a massive spread of local South African and Cape-Malaysian dishes. We were lucky to run into him but you too can get to know the local side of a city with tours like Eat Like a Local and The 10 Tastings of Cape Town With Locals . Our friend wanted nothing in return but to make sure that we enjoyed his homeland. People often speak of the magic of the scenery of Cape Town, but to me, this is the magic.

Since my first visit to South Africa, I’ve traveled to fourteen other countries in Africa, each providing me with memories to last a lifetime. As I continue to travel through Africa and the world, South Africa will remain one of my favorite destinations. It’s rich history and culture, limitless possibilities, unparalleled experiences, but most importantly, it’s generous and vibrant people, take up a special part in my heart that always leaves me longing to return.

9 Ways An International Trip To Africa Changed My Perspectives On Life And People

As we pulled up to a village called Lukulu, Zambia, Africa, the sign read, “The land of plenty.”

All I could think was, "For their motto being 'the land of plenty,' they really don’t have much." As my two-week mission trip in this village started, I discovered how completely wrong I was.

I recently took my first international trip to a village in Africa with 14 strangers who would soon become family members to me.

Last year, I applied for a mission trip through my city, and I had no idea the impact it would have. For years, it had been something I always wanted to do, yet I never had the chance.

Maybe I was afraid of how it might impact my comfortable life, or maybe, I was just great at making excuses and letting other things in my life take precedence.

Before I left for my mission trip, many people asked me why I was doing it or what I hoped to accomplish. All I could say was that I had no idea, but I knew I needed to help others and to change my own life.

Our team worked for countless months to collect donations and put on fundraisers to help us raise money. We were able to bring more than 30 bags of donation items with us, along with donation money. We were also able to help do multiple projects for the village.

I had hoped our impact would be huge, and it was, but what I didn’t expect was the impact it would have on me. I met some of the most amazing, selfless individuals and multiple children who stole my heart in Africa.

In the middle of the trip, I was still unsure about why exactly I made the decision to go. I thought it would become clearer, just as we always hope things in our lives do.

In the end, it all became clear: It changed my whole perspective on my life and made me feel very lucky to always have running water, a great job, a home and an abundance of clothing. What I learned surpasses being grateful for how lucky I am, however.

Here is what the people I met along my journey taught me:

People love differently

There are different ways that people love in this world, and it is important to understand the type of love each person gives. It is also important to understand how much love you should give others.

Become open-minded

Not everyone is like you. The trip taught me to be open to new experiences because I had no idea what it would be like. If you are open-minded, your outlook on your life will change, as well.

Embrace life

Embrace other cultures, the people around you and the experiences — all of these things will help you to become a better person.

Strive for inner change

During this trip, I wanted to make a difference and help others, but I learned that I needed to make inner changes, as well. Every day, I now strive to do that for myself.

Value what other people do for you and the pride they take in things toward which they personally work. When I was able to see how people in Africa valued their skills and different things in life, I realized that even the smallest things in life should be valued.

Small gifts are also big gifts

Never underestimate what you can do for others; a small gesture goes a long way. From giving a girl a dress to holding children's hands as we walked in the village, to watching a few of our men teach boys how to mix concrete, all these seemingly small things came across as huge gifts.

Surround yourself with good

During my trip, I realized with whom I wanted to surround myself. The people I met would have done anything for me during my trip, and I was able to realize who would do the same for me in my life and who wouldn’t.

When you are in doubt about something in your life, follow your heart to your personal values and standards. Your true values won’t lead you the wrong way because they exist to mold you into the person you want to be.

Become less selfish

Even the most selfless people you know seem selfish once you meet people who give, even when they have nothing. I watched a little girl share her lunch, which was only a piece of bread, with others, not because she wanted an award, but because it was the right thing to do.

I watched a lady give up her whole life to helping malnourished children -- children would not have survived past six months without her program. What would you share? Could you share more?

This trip taught me so much about the impact I am able to make on the less fortunate. I now understand why the village of Lukulu, Zambia, Africa is called "the land of plenty."

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Kruger National Park

- a different side to my south africa -.

Commended Entry: Kruger National Park essay by Sheridan Kuhn from South Africa

This article was submitted in the Kids World Travel Guide Essay Competition 2023 in the Junior Category 8 - 11 years.

I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa in August this year. I went with my family and friends for our family camping trip for 10 days. I would like to share with you my trip to the Kruger National Park and how different it is to my home - a small farm town on the east coast of South Africa.

When I arrived in Kruger Park, I was taken aback because it was so dry and yellow. I come from KwaZulu-Natal, so it is very green and near our farm I am surrounded by gorges and rivers. Kruger Park is only green by the Crocodile River, and we drove along this for a while from our camp, Berg-en-Dal. I soon found out that Kruger Park has lots of thorn trees which was new for me, and there are also a lot of thorns on the ground - I found this out the hard way! There are short trees with few leaves, which was new too because by us the trees are tall and leafy. Kruger has very red and soft sand which gets hot quickly. I know, I burnt my feet. Here at my home, we have yellow soil with small stones.

The first animal we saw was the Impala antelope. Kruger Park has so many different types of animals. I think God blessed us for we saw the South African Big 5 in 2 days - the lion, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo and elephant - and the cheetah on the third day. I thought that was amazing. We were driving to our next camp, Satara, when I saw a Nile Crocodile. We also saw a few other reptiles like the rhombic puffadder and Southern Agama. A dream come true was to see the African wild dog in the wild. I had seen a wild dog before, but it was in a small enclosure at a rehabilitation center. I have always loved the African wild dog because they are shy, beautiful and smart.

In the first few days we saw most things we wanted, which was a wonderful surprise for me, so we decided to look for birds. Kruger Park is well known for its birds. We looked and saw some that we see at home and saw a lot that I have never seen before like the Saddled-billed Stork, Lilac-Breasted roller, Southern Ground-Hornbill. Most of the birds that live in Kruger are birds that love dry grass and can live with little water. Birds near us need lots of water. We saw the Cori Bustard more than once and my brother and his friend went crazy when we saw it.

Now I know what a big part of South Africa looks like (I did think it was greener), I think people must go to the Kruger National Park if they are looking for new animals and an adventure.

Congratulations on your essay about Kruger National Park, Sheridan! This is must have been such a wonderful family trip. I trust you and your brothers have many fabulous stories to share!

Sheridan Kuhn is homeschooled and lives in KwaZulu-Natal/ South Africa. English is her first language.

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Hotel programs, best credit cards, back to guides, accra, ghana: my first trip to africa.

I spent three days exploring the capital of Ghana on my maiden trip to Africa. Here’s everything I did, saw, and ate during my time there.

Written by Ricky Zhang

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On July 3, 2019

Read time 23 mins

The thought of setting foot on the African continent for the first time had always been somewhat daunting to me. As much as it pains me to say it, my pre-conceived notions about Africa, which weren’t necessarily the most positive, had always held me back from planning a trip.

But as an avid traveller who was no stranger to taking on new experiences, I knew that I’d eventually have to face up to these uncertainties and explore Africa for myself. So when the time came to plan a crazy Aeroplan-inspired trip around the world, I took a leap of faith and booked myself a three-day stopover in Accra, Ghana.

Why Ghana? Well, I had wanted my first visit to Africa to expose me to as many new surroundings as possible, instead of “playing it safe” by going somewhere like South Africa, where the strong European influence remains familiar.

At the same time, though, I’m obviously wary of safety along my travels, so I’m not going to waltz into Sudan or the DR Congo with my DSLR camera around my neck. Ghana enjoys a leading reputation among African nations in many areas of human development, and is also known as being one of the safest countries in the West Africa region, so I decided that Accra, the capital, would be the ideal place for me to visit on my maiden trip to Africa.

Plus, I got to fly a few interesting airlines on the way there, and there’s also a Marriott hotel close to the airport where I could redeem my points. What more did I want?

A friend of mine had introduced me to his friend, Kennedy, who lives and works in Accra, and Kennedy had graciously decided to act as my tour guide for the weekend that I was in town. I’m very grateful for that, because without Kennedy to show me around, I would’ve been lucky to see and discover a fraction of the things that I actually did!

I met up with Kennedy on the first morning, and I’ll walk you through what we got up to over the course of my three-day visit.

Day 1: Osu – The City Centre

The first day was spent exploring the Osu area, which can be described as the commercial centre of Accra. Located about a 20-minute drive from the airport and not far from the coastline, Osu is the capital’s beating heart, and is where the most cosmopolitan restaurants, bars, and new housing developments can be found.

Before heading into town, Kennedy and I first paid a visit to the La Tante DC-10 Restaurant, which is a rather bizarre eatery housed within an abandoned McDonnell-Douglas DC-10 aircraft, parked not too far from Accra’s real Kotoka International Airport, meaning that it was right around the corner from the Marriott hotel.

La Tante DC-10 Restaurant – Exterior

The DC-10 used to be operated by Ghana Airways until the airline went bankrupt and the plane was left parked at the airport. After various parts of the plane were sold for scrap, the La Tante restaurant chain purchased it, fitting it with a row of dining tables along each side of the fuselage and serving local Ghanaian specialties along with a wide range of drink options. 

La Tante DC-10 Restaurant – Seating

Since I had just eaten a huge breakfast at the hotel, we thought we’d just get a beer in the restaurant for the novelty of it, but we were told that only dining patrons were allowed to sit inside the aircraft itself. If we only wanted to drink, we had to sit in the shaded area outside, underneath the fueslage. 

And so we ordered some beef kebab to share, to go along with our beers. The kebab was spicy – and I say this as someone who loves spicy foods. Africans arguably love their spices even more than Asians, and even Kennedy was struggling to deal with the heat!

A different kind of airplane meal…

After being treated to a rather odd introduction to the country, we drove into town to check out what the Osu neighbourhood was getting up to on this Friday night. First, we stopped by Kennedy’s girlfriend’s place; after that, since Kennedy knew I was into fancy hotels, he brought me to the Kempinski Accra to see what one of the city’s most upscale lodging options was like.

Street scene in Osu

Kempinski Accra – Lobby

Needless to say, the Kempinski had a very nice ambience, both in the lobby lounge and upstairs by the outdoor pool. This place very much caters to Western tourists, though, and the prices reflect that – I ordered a cappuccino to perk me up in my jet-lagged afternoon state, and it cost me 25 Ghanaian cedis ($5)!

Kempinski Accra – Outdoor pool

There was a big football match that night: Arsenal v Manchester United in the FA Cup. As opposing fans of the two teams (which happen to be among the two most well-supported clubs in football-mad Ghana), Kennedy and I trash-talked our way to the raucous outdoor bar where the locals gather to watch the match, with his Manchester United side eventually shutting me up with a 2–0 victory.

That set the tone for our next destination: The Republic, a trendy bar in the middle of Osu that’s popular with Accra’s expatriate population. As someone who used to run in the expat circles when I lived in Beijing, this was exactly my favourite kind of spot, and pretty soon the drinks – including some particularly strong local concoctions – began flowing freely. 

The outdoor patio blasted the latest Afro-pop hits all night, and I had the best time swaying along pretending to know the words. 

Friday nights at the Republic

Day 2: Jamestown – The Fishing Harbour

After coming back late to the hotel the previous night, we didn’t get started until noon the next day. The plan for the day was to visit Jamestown, the centre of the old colonial parts of Accra, before checking out a few other major points of interest.

As someone who’s travelled around Europe a fair bit, the words “old town” bring about images of charming cobblestone streets and castles on top of hills. But I couldn’t have been more misguided about the “old town” here in Accra, where the British, Danish, Dutch, and German colonizers at various points in history had built their forts along the coastline and swiftly abandoned them, leaving the local communities in tatters for generations to come.

Jamestown refers to the specific site of the British territory in Accra, but also acts as a generic term for all of the communities built around the many dilapidated colonial forts along the Accra coastline. In this part of town, the villages blend into one another, and the streets don’t necessarily have names – in fact, they’re lucky if they have a discernible beginning and end!

Jamestown Lighthouse

The Jamestown Lighthouse therefore acts as the default meeting place in this sprawling neighbourhood, and it was here that we met Emmanuel, a friend of a friend of Kennedy’s who would be our tour guide for the morning. I honestly cannot imagine getting to see Jamestown without the help of a local, because my foreign face would stand out like the sorest of thumbs.

We embarked on the first stop on our tour, a short walk from the lighthouse down to the beach. And I was genuinely shocked by what I saw.

While most of Jamestown’s residents at least have the privilege of living on solid ground, an even more marginalized group of people are forced to live on the beach itself , earning their keep by fishing on the open seas in the dead of night.

Jamestown fishing harbour

Around midnight every night, the fishermen take their wooden boats hundreds of metres into the open Atlantic Ocean, bringing home their catch by sunrise in time to host a haphazard early-morning fish market on the beach with the help of their families.

It’s a harsh set of circumstances, but I admired the resilience and spirit of these people, which could be seen in the various designs they incorporated in their fishing fleets. I thought the boats made for a nice setting for a photo op, but upon further reflection, it didn’t quite feel right to take too many pictures in the midst of such abject poverty, so I only snapped a few.

Jamestown fishing harbour – Boats

As it turns out, Emmanuel was also the headmaster of a makeshift school that he had set up on the beach, in order to educate the children of these marginalized fishermen.

As Emmanuel told me, most of these children are deprived from schooling and are instead tasked with working the boats at an early age, so a solid educational foundation from a non-profit school like this would be the only way to give them a brighter future.

Jamestown fishing harbour – Non-profit school

After making our way back to solid ground, our tour continued with visits to several of the old colonial forts. The old Dutch fort, known as Ussher Fort, had now been converted into a makeshift football pitch and graffiti gallery, while another fort (I believe it was the German one) was now also being used as a non-profit school for the local community.

Ussher Fort

            View this post on Instagram                     Gonna miss the colours of Africa ???? #SeeYouSoon #Accra #Ghana A post shared by Ricky Zhang (@princeoftravel) on Jan 28, 2019 at 12:29pm PST

Around this point, we also met two other travellers, who, upon noticing my obviously foreign face, expressed interest in joining our tour. It was funny: we then walked through some of Jamestown’s streets and back-alleys, and all I heard from the locals were shouts of “China! China!” and “How are you!”” 

I guess they see the occasional white traveller around here, but very rarely a Chinese one. Of course, as soon as I became overly friendly with one of the children, he started asking me for money, so pretty soon I learned to flash a wide grin and keep walking.

We finished off the tour by sharing some beers near the Jamestown Lighthouse. It turns out that the other guys, Mike and Jürgen, have a travel website as well, and you can feel free to check out their For 91 Days blog for their impressions of that day in Accra!

After touring the Jamestown district, Kennedy brought me to Accra’s most significant national point of interest: the Black Star Square, which includes a monument with a four-sided Black Star sculpture on top, and the huge city square where all the national celebrations are held and foreign dignitaries welcomed. 

Black Star Square

Our visit to Black Star Square inspired a bit of conversation on Ghana’s role in the world as we went to grab dinner. It’s one of the leading West African nations alongside Nigeria (which Kennedy described as “having more people and being less friendly” – I guess I’ll have to see about that when I visit!), and enjoys a relatively high ranking in the region for things like education and human development. Ghana also benefits from a having a highly democratic government, with nothing but peaceful transitions of power throughout its history, as well as low levels of corruption.

Of course, as with any developing country, it still has its fair share of problems to solve – the scenes we had witnessed in Jamestown were a prime example. Nevertheless, I got the impression that Ghanaians took a huge amount of pride in the peace and prosperity of their nation, which made me feel happy that I had chosen to come here.

For dinner, we hit the street food stand and indulged in banku (fermented corn and cassava dough) with grilled tilapia drenched in Ghanaian chilli sauce, which was certainly the best meal I had on this trip. If I weren’t taking another dozen or so flights on my round-the-world trip after Ghana, I definitely would’ve brought home as many bottles of that delightful chilli sauce as I could get my hands on!

Ghanaian street food for dinner

Day 3: Labadi Beach – The Beach! 

Sunday, of course, is God’s day in Christian-majority Accra. But after that, it’s Beach Day. 

Every person I talked to at the hotel had asked me if I was going to be here until Sunday, because that’s apparently when everyone in Accra hits the beach to hang out with friends, relax with a few drinks, and generally have fun in the sun and unwind at the end of the week. I loved the sound of that, so was looking forward to taking part in this quintessential Accra experience before my 9pm departure that night.

The main beach is known as Labadi Beach, but also “La Beach” for short. We arrived early at around 1pm before the crowds poured in, taking up a spot under the umbrellas with a few rounds of kebab and beer. 

Labadi Beach

Labadi Beach – Restaurants and bars

Kennedy’s friend joined us later on and we just sat around to chat for a few hours. If you’re a tourist, hawkers will try to sell you all sorts of knick-knacks, but it’s easy enough to wave them away. There are also about a dozen young guys walking around with horses, offering horseback rides to anyone who looks in their direction. 

The three of us decided “why not?” and negotiated three horseback rides for 20 Ghanaian cedis ($4), which felt like a pretty sweet deal. The horseback ride itself wasn’t anything special – a simple lap around the length of the public beach – except for the final stretch when the guy let me guide the horse left and right on my own.

Labadi Beach – Horseback riding

Let’s be real here: there’s no pristine white sand at Labadi Beach or anything like that. It’s loud, boisterous, and gets pretty dirty as the Sunday drags on. But the Beach Day is pretty much a cultural institution here in Accra at this point, so if you’re coming to town, make sure to schedule your trip around a Sunday in order to fully experience it.

At around 5pm, Kennedy and I polished off a final few kebabs and made our way back to the airport. I won’t lie, I was pretty sad to be leaving Accra after spending three incredibly eye-opening days in town.

Kotoka International Airport

I bid goodbye to Kennedy, letting him know of my immense gratitude for spending his weekend as my tour guide, and then checked in for my flights to Istanbul and then onwards to Singapore and then Perth. 

Kotoka International Airport – Turkish Airlines check-in

And after catching up on some work in the airport’s Akwaaba Lounge, I boarded the Turkish Airlines 737 and took off into the West African night. As I looked down on the lights of the Accra city sprawl, picking out the various places I had briefly gotten to know, I couldn’t help but wonder when I’d be coming back. 

I’m confident that I made the right decision in choosing Accra as my first port of call in Africa. From losing my head at the Republic, to basking in the city-wide relaxed vibes of Labadi Beach, to – oh man – the unforgettable taste of fresh grilled tilapia smothered in that addicting chilli sauce, I leave Ghana with many good memories. 

On the other hand, seeing the downtrodden folks of the Jamestown fishing harbour left me with plenty to reflect on, and I hope to make the tiniest difference by sharing their stories and encouraging you, too, to pay them a visit. (If you’re going to Ghana, let me know and I’ll try to put you in touch with Emmanuel!) 

Above all, visiting Ghana taught me that while we all have pre-conceived notions about the world, they exist merely to be vanquished through the act of travelling. It’s ambitious, I know, but I hope to return to Accra one day, since there’s still so much left to do; however, above all, I’m excited to return to Africa and discover more of the continent along my future travels.

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My first visit to South Africa

My first visit to south africa .

How does someone terrified of flying conquer this fear? Well, if they’re anything like me, they travel to South Africa!

After 20+ hours of traveling with bated breath and clutched hands, the flight attendant announced our impending arrival in Johannesburg. These magic words brought a sigh of relief and I turned to Lilly, my traveling companion and African Travel’s Director of Operations, who happens to share my fear of aeronautics. We did it! I dared to peek out the window and was rewarded with the most beautiful scenery I’ve ever encountered. It was instantaneous love.

During our stay in Johannesburg, we toured Soweto, visited Liliesleaf, and wandered through Mandela’s Square. Soweto – which is an acronym for “South Western Townships” – was my favorite; a melting pot of culture and history, rich with stories of the past and scars from the struggle against apartheid. The township was originally created to house black laborers and ensure segregation, but Soweto today is a land of democratic leadership, vibrant color and surprising juxtaposition.

Soweto’s history is apparent on every corner, but the township has created several memorials to honor their difficult past. We visited the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, which commemoratives 12-year-old Hector Pieterson who was shot in 1976 during what was meant to be a peaceful protest of high school students against the mandatory use of Afrikaans in the black schools. We also visited Nelson Mandela’s home, now a museum, paying homage to his dedication to promoting human rights, democracy, reconciliation and tolerance.

This part of the journey was poignant and bittersweet. We shed a tear for the suffering of the past, but left with smiles on our faces and hope in our hearts as South Africa’s future is bright.

The “Mother City” of Cape Town was next on our list, and I cherished every single minute. Even sitting in traffic was a lovely experience, as the scenic drive to The Twelve Apostles Hotel was truly breathtaking. In all, we enjoyed five days and four nights of Cape Town’s legendary culture and hospitality, touring all the surrounding areas that make this destination a must-visit. The Cape of Good Hope, Table Mountain, and the Winelands were among our adventures – believe me when I say that nothing can compare to savoring a glass of world-class wine while soaking up legendary panoramic landscapes.

  As a spectacular finale, we spent three days and two nights in the Thornybush Reserve, which is a small private game reserve adjacent to Kruger Park in the northeastern region of South Africa. Our guide introduced us to a bevy of animals from the moment we landed; we were greeted by a warthog at the airport, and on our first game drive we saw three of the Big Five! There is something incredibly special about the bush and witnessing dozens of majestic animals roaming free in their natural habitat. Thornybush is known for its Big Five viewing, and twice-daily game drives are available in the morning and evening.

I was also impressed with the trackers and rangers, who skillfully navigate the bush without any directions or signs. The only traffic jam we encountered was a herd of elephants blocking the road, which was a nice change from the gridlocked congestion I’m used to back home. On our final night we were treated to a beautiful outdoor dinner in the bush, and we stopped on the way back to the lodge to do some stargazing. I have never seen so many stars in my life – it was truly an unforgettable experience that drove home just how small we really are.

The day we departed, the entire staff came to send us off, which is just the kind of heartwarming gesture I learned to expect from the South Africans. This journey was so much more than anything I ever could have imagined – it was the trip of a lifetime, one that I will cherish to the end of my days.

© 2024 AFRICAN TRAVEL,INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CST #2071444-20

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My Trip to Africa Essay (596 words)

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As summer came closer and school was closing, I was planning my summer vacation until my mother had to ruin it by telling us we were going to Africa. I was terrified and, my brothers wouldn’t stop talking cause they were to excited. As the days where getting closer I been thinking about all the negative things that could happen while I was there, we packed everything we would need for the trip. The next morning we got up early and got dressed, then my aunt took us to the airport as we said our goodbyes, my stomach started to hurt and I felt sick as we got on the plane.

As our plane landed all I could see was green all around and trees, bushes, and tall grass. I thought we where in the wilderness. The moment we got off the plane we had to wait for our suitcase which took an hour. I was tired, hungry and wanted to sleep but that wasn’t going to happen cause everyone were waiting to see us. The car trip was quiet long but once we arrived at the place we were staying.. After getting to know everyone they were all so nice and friendly. Then sun started to set, I was quiet surprised cause it was hot weather over there and the sun will set at 6pm, which made everyone go to bed early.

The morning after we arrived and where settled in, we went on a drive around town. It was very interesting seeing goats and other animals with out their owners just wondering around town. Anyway I took over hundreds of pictures just in an hour. Later that day we went to go eat at a restaurant the food there was delicious. I was quiet surprise that there where pizza stores in Africa. After our big meal we went on a safari, we saw lions, giraffes, and camels. The giraffes were very tall and pretty. Later on our tour guide ask us if we want to ride a camel, I was scared but It sound fun so I tried it for the first time in life.

It was such an amazing experience and an amazing day. This was the perfect trip. The flight home was long and. It was sad to leave but I missed my friends and was quiet happy to go back. On our flight back to Toronto we had to stop in Ethiopia to change our plane. After waiting for a while they told us to get in line. I was happy when we reach the front. Until they told me I don’t look like my picture on the passport, I tried telling them I lost a lot of weight but they didn’t believe so I got stuck there for five days with out clothing, food and only a hundred dollar bill.

I was so terrified and there food was expensive and to make a phone call I had to pay three dollars for one minute. After being there for days hungry and cold they told me how they got in touch with the Canadian nimbus and I was going home on the next flight home. In the end I learned a lot of new stuff and meet new people. I thought Africa would be a horrible experience but it turned out to be great. I hope my parents would take us again. I think everyone should travel to Africa if they get a chance in there life. I had an amazing time and hope others would go.

This essay was written by a fellow student. You may use it as a guide or sample for writing your own paper, but remember to cite it correctly . Don’t submit it as your own as it will be considered plagiarism.

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Hi, my name is Amy 👋

In case you can't find a relevant example, our professional writers are ready to help you write a unique paper. Just talk to our smart assistant Amy and she'll connect you with the best match.

My trip to Africa Essay. Any takers?

<p>It answers my “experience” question #1 on the common app. ANY HELP ON ANY PART OF IT WOULD BE APPRECIATED!</p>

<p>pm it over if you’d like</p>

<p>[Reed</a> Magazine: My Essay](<a href=“ http://web.reed.edu/reed_magazine/autumn2006/features/my_essay/what_to_say.html]Reed ”> Reed Magazine: My Essay )</p>

<p>Check out what NOT to write about. Excerpt from above, with the #1 thing NOT to write about: The Trip.

[quote] This piece is also a specific literary form, like an epic or a limerick, and has its own clich</p>

<p>I will read it.</p>

<p>bumpp any other takers? and digmedia, its not how it sounds. its different, but thanks :)</p>

<p>I’ll read it.</p>

<p>I’ll look it over if you so desire. =]</p>

<p>i can! pm it over. i’m an '09er, if that’s ok with you.</p>

<p>Where in ‘Africa’ did you go? just curious…</p>

<p>Hey If anyone wants to read my India essay please PM me. I’ll be very grateful!</p>

<p>I have an Africa trip essay as well. The thing is that my family is actually from the country I visited. PM me if you would like to read it.</p>

<p>Haha, yeah my father was born there, that’s why I went. </p>

<p>I went to kenya and tanzania!</p>

<p>PM your essays; all the other foreign trip people( India, Africa), pm me as well. </p>

<p>Trips are becoming increasingly more difficult to write about so I will keep that in mind as I read your essays.</p>

<p>I’ll take a look… I usually go way overboard with ideas/improvements lol</p>

Essay on My Most Memorable Trip

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Most Memorable Trip in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Most Memorable Trip

Exciting departure.

My most memorable trip was to a wildlife sanctuary. The excitement started with the journey itself. We took a train, and the rhythmic chugging felt like music.

Wildlife Encounter

The sanctuary was a different world. The sight of animals in their natural habitat was breathtaking. I saw a deer grazing, a sight I’ll never forget.

Memorable Return

The return journey was equally thrilling. The sanctuary’s beauty stayed with me, making the trip unforgettable. This trip taught me to appreciate nature’s wonders.

250 Words Essay on My Most Memorable Trip

Introduction.

My most memorable trip was an enthralling journey to the heart of the Himalayas, Leh-Ladakh. This trip was not only about the breathtaking beauty of the mountains, but it was a journey that led to self-discovery and understanding the nuances of life.

The Journey

The destination.

Upon reaching Leh, the stark beauty of the barren mountains, the azure blue sky, and the tranquility of the monasteries left me spellbound. The Pangong Lake, a shimmering blue expanse surrounded by snow-capped mountains, was a sight to behold. The simplicity and hospitality of the local Ladakhi people added a unique charm to the trip.

Life Lessons

This trip was not just about sightseeing; it was a journey of self-discovery. The challenges faced during the journey taught me resilience and the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. The serenity of the place helped me introspect and understand the importance of inner peace in the chaos of life.

In conclusion, my trip to Leh-Ladakh was not just a journey to a destination, but a journey into myself. It was a trip that left an indelible imprint on my mind, making it the most memorable one.

500 Words Essay on My Most Memorable Trip

Traveling is a passion that allows us to explore new places, experience diverse cultures, and create unforgettable memories. One such journey that has left an indelible mark on my memory is my trip to the Grand Canyon.

The Grandeur of the Grand Canyon

My trip to the Grand Canyon was a mesmerizing experience that transcended the boundaries of ordinary travel. The Grand Canyon, located in Arizona, USA, is a natural wonder that is unparalleled in its grandeur and majesty. It is a geological marvel that has been carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. The sheer size of the canyon, with its depth reaching over a mile and its width extending up to 18 miles, is awe-inspiring.

Preparation and Anticipation

The journey to the Grand Canyon was a feast for the senses. The drive through the arid landscapes of Arizona, with its vast expanses of desert, punctuated by cacti and occasional settlements, was a stark contrast to the urban landscapes I was accustomed to. The changing hues of the desert at sunset, from golden to deep red, was a sight to behold.

First Impressions

My first glimpse of the Grand Canyon was a moment that is etched in my memory. As I stood on the edge of the South Rim, I was struck by the sheer enormity of the canyon. The vast expanse of rugged terrain, with its layers of red and brown rock, stretched as far as the eye could see. The play of light and shadow on the canyon walls created a dynamic landscape that seemed to change with every passing minute.

The Hiking Experience

The trip to the Grand Canyon was more than just a travel experience. It was a journey that offered profound insights into the power and beauty of nature. It was a reminder of our insignificance in the face of such overwhelming natural grandeur. The memories of the trip continue to inspire me, serving as a reminder of the wonders that await us if we venture beyond our comfort zones.

In conclusion, the trip to the Grand Canyon was a memorable journey that left me with a deeper appreciation of nature’s beauty and the joy of exploration. It was a trip that I will always cherish, and it has inspired me to continue my quest for new experiences and adventures.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

My Trip to Africa

2 Pages 596 Words March 2015

As summer came closer and school was closing, I was planning my summer vacation until my mother had to ruin it by telling us we were going to Africa. I was terrified and, my brothers wouldn’t stop talking cause they were to excited. As the days where getting closer I been thinking about all the negative things that could happen while I was there, we packed everything we would need for the trip. The next morning we got up early and got dressed, then my aunt took us to the airport as we said our goodbyes, my stomach started to hurt and I felt sick as we got on the plane. As our plane landed all I could see was green all around and trees, bushes, and tall grass. I thought we where in the wilderness. The moment we got off the plane we had to wait for our suitcase which took an hour. I was tired, hungry and wanted to sleep but that wasn’t going to happen cause everyone were waiting to see us. The car trip was quiet long but once we arrived at the place we were staying.. After getting to know everyone they were all so nice and friendly. Then sun started to set, I was quiet surprised cause it was hot weather over there and the sun will set at 6pm, which made everyone go to bed early. The morning after we arrived and where settled in, we went on a drive around town. It was very interesting seeing goats and other animals with out their owners just wondering around town. Anyway I took over hundreds of pictures just in an hour. Later that day we went to go eat at a restaurant the food there was delicious. I was quiet surprise that there where pizza stores in Africa. After our big meal we went on a safari, we saw lions, giraffes, and camels. The giraffes were very tall and pretty. Later on our tour guide ask us if we want to ride a camel, I was scared but It sound fun so I tried it for the first time in life. It was such an amazing experience and an amazing day. This was the perfect trip. The flight home was long and. It was sad to leave but...

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Writing Between Worlds: Navigating My African and American Identities on the Page

Itoro bassey on the gift of being understood.

If you had known me when I was much younger, and asked how I identified, I would have told you that I was Black. This would have been my way to acknowledge my Blackness in America, being that I was born and raised in this country, while simultaneously acknowledging that I was born to Nigerian immigrants, which usually meant that my particular experience as a Black person in America was markedly different from most of my African American peers. I was not from one of those families that traveled back home every year like some cousins I knew, which further solidified my distance from my parents’ homeland and cultural practices.

Though I couldn’t fully claim the experience of African Americans whose people had been enslaved and brought to this country, their collective struggles and triumphs had taught me a lot about how I wanted to show up in the world. I had a great respect for what they had been through as a collective, and the beauty they had produced in the face of such odds, and, for me, the particular reality of navigating the US while Black was more resonant in my consciousness than my Nigerian identity.

In high school I was introduced to authors like Toni Morrison and Richard Wright. I read Jazz in a literature class as the token BIPOC book that had made its way into the syllabus, and Native Son in an Intro to Law class, where the teacher used the character of Bigger Thomas as a case study into the mind of a criminal. It would be years later, when I was training to become a teacher myself, that it would hit me how cruel this particular teacher had been in her final assessment of the main character. I’d break down in tears over this revelation, and say a word of gratitude for the struggles fought to make it possible for me to have access to authors like Morrison and Wright, even if in such a limited manner.

I suspect the teacher’s hope was to plant a seed that would make me criminalize Blackness, but instead, I developed a curiosity about my personal connection to a larger Black experience within an interconnected—and at times fraught—tapestry of understandings. Perhaps I could not fully claim the experiences of African Americans who had produced prolific writers like Morrison and Wright; and neither could I fully claim the stories told by Nigerian writers like Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Adichie. But at the very least I could be in conversation with these writers from my particular vantage point.

I’ve been asked quite a few times: Who do you write for? Usually I’m asked this question in reference to identifying who in the marketplace would be interested in reading my work. It’s become a complex question to answer, because usually, I’m mining decades of absence, dispersion and grief within characters who are trying to find the language to say the unsayable across space and time. And sometimes, if they could say that which could be said, they may choose to not say it at all, because the people they’re speaking to already have the scaffolding to understand their experience. If the scaffolding doesn’t exist, then this gap becomes a part of the story, a tension within the relationship.

When I lived in Nigeria for three years, there was a saying many people would use to convey this sentiment of what is intrinsically understood because one has been steeped in a particular experience shared among those who have lived it.

We know ourselves.

I was speaking to a friend about the teacher who introduced me to Native Son in high school. I’ll call this friend Naimah. She was born in the US to an immigrant Nigerian mother and an African American father.

“This teacher asked every Black kid in that class—and you know there were only two of us—did we ever feel bad about being Black.” I said, enraged. “And of course we say yes, because we think she cares about what’s happening to us. And then the next day she draws a Venn diagram on the chalkboard breaking down Bigger Thomas’ mind, making the case that he was primed to become a criminal. And then she wanted a fifteen-hundred-word essay on how one becomes a criminal using Bigger Thomas as the example. That was the only Black book we ever read in her class! Can you believe?”

Naimah, who usually had an answer for everything, shook her head and said,

“Girl, I know. These people… God will deal with them.”

“God will deal with them,” is what many Nigerians said to express powerlessness in the face of an impossible situation. They simply give it over to a higher power and move on.

From Naimah’s response, it was clear she had her own set of grievances that she had moved on from. I felt great relief in knowing that I was understood in this friendship. The type of pain I was still holding was known, and it didn’t require further explanation.

What steers my writing, is a quest to find the we . My experience straddling both Blackness in America and alienation from my parents’ homeland has made me crave literature where those of us living within the African Diaspora, and those on the outside, can learn about and from each other. It isn’t about writing in a way that only humanizes Black people to white people and non-Black people eager to learn about different experiences—it’s also about telling stories where Black people, no matter where we find ourselves, can be witnessed by each other.

It’s my hope to show the intimacy of how one shifts between worlds and different understandings. This is the experience for those of us who exist in that place Chicana feminist and writer Gloria Anzaldúa called the third space. Anzaldúa was describing the growing consciousness emerging within Latinx communities finding themselves between two homelands; grappling with being from neither here, nor there.

“I am participating in the creation of yet another culture,” she writes in Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza , “a new story to explain the world and our participation in it, a new value system with images and symbols that connect us to each other and the planet.”

Anzaldúa’s tremendous groundwork has helped me become a writer unafraid of writing worlds within worlds while recognizing how I exist in all of them.

When someone reads my work, the most exciting thing a reader can tell me suggests understanding, and being understood: “Say less.”

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