Looking For An African Trip This Winter?
An African safari is not only for the rich and famous. ex-Marine (husband, Steve) and I are proof of that. If you've got the money and want to stay at the $500 to $1,000 a person a night luxury lodges, I say go for it. But if you happen to fall into the majority of travelers who are looking to save money and still travel, here are a few suggestions along with the links to each:
In the extremely adventurous and budget category, take a look at African Trails. They use converted Overland Adventure trucks that carry up to 30 people comfortably with fuel, food and water. Prepare to help cook, camp and live with no frills. That includes cold showers at times. Beaverline Safaris also caters to backpackers and campers. And, there is nothing to stop you from doing it yourself by renting a car and staying in National Park lodges (advisable in South Africa only). I have not used either of these organizers and don't drive around Africa, but I've been told that it is easy to do.
United Travel Group blasts the myth that an Africa vacation is only for the rich with Guilt-Free Getaways. This is a collection of short getaways to East and South Africa that start as low as $1,695 per person, including airfare from New York (departure taxes and fuel surcharges are additional).
For budget to moderate Africa explorations, Just enter "Africa" in the Find My Adventure link on this page. Aren't you amazed at the variety of trips offered by Adventure Center who represents Exodus Travel, Explore U.K., Peregrine, Gecko and Imaginative Traveller? Surely you can find something that appeals to you. East Africa, West Africa, South Africa, go face-to-face with the Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda. There's enough in Africa to keep you busy for two lifetimes.
In the luxury to extreme luxury category with private cottages/pavilions, plunge pools, beyond gorgeous bathrooms...View image, and sundowners laid out for you in the bush, contact your favorite travel agent who will be more than happy to book for you. Visit Cox & Kings and Absolute Travel. Take a look at the offerings from Wilderness Travel and by the way, that's ex-Marine with the "binos" and big-haired me in the photo below. Yes, we did pop for this luxury trip with Wilderness. It was priceless and worth every dollar.
Whatever and wherever you decide on in Africa, prepare for the adventure of a life. Nothing compares with the native experiences and wildlife in Africa. Can you just imagine seeing tree climbing lions in Uganda? Don't procrastinate and put it off until next year. Visit Africa now!
