Mpumalanga: A World of Adventure

With a wide spectrum of exciting escapades to choose from, it’s no wonder Mpumalanga is considered the capital of adventure in Africa. Mpumalanga is a haven for people who love the outdoors—whether you enjoy exotic African Safari tours, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, or slalom canoeing, Mpumalanga has it.

Situated in South Africa, Mpumalanga’s hot climate makes it the perfect place to enjoy outdoor delights year-round. You’re guaranteed to find something to fulfill the craving for adventure . . .



Adventurous Activities:

There are an infinite number of possibilities when it comes to adventure in Mpumalanga. Horseback riding, wildlife walks, caving, canoeing, rafting, and fishing, are just some of the many activities to enjoy. Glide on the wild side off of Mpumalanga’s Blyde River Canyon. Paragliding and hangliding are sure to create an adrenaline rush. With cliffs as tall as 2,400 feet high, Blyde River Canyon ranks as the world’s number 3 largest canyons, and one of the most spectacular views in all of Africa. For mountain enthusiasts, hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking are a must in Mpumalanga.



African Safaris:

Observe ferocious wild game, vibrant birds, and slithering reptiles, on an authentic African safari tour on the Kruger National Park. This Park is the most ancient in Africa and arguably, the greatest Park to spot the Big Five and other captivating mammals. For many people, the Big Five are the most amazing creatures you can witness on an African safari vacation. These five magnificent animals would be none other than the elephant, cape buffalo, rhino, lion, and leopard.

Explore the real Mpumalanga and uncover a world of exciting adventure, on an African family safari or a magical honeymoon safari . Hills of Africa Travel will create the perfect itinerary for you, tailored around your every preference. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802, and live the magic of Africa.

African Safari Vacation: Adventure Begins with the Big Five

African safari tours are the gateway to an incredible world of culture, spectacular game-viewing, stunning landscape, and thrilling adventures. Although safari travelers thoroughly enjoy the hundreds of exotic birds, peculiar reptiles, and cunning mammals, nothing is more exciting than the sight of one of the Big Five . . .

Once you recognize one of the Big Five stalking its prey or pounding the ground as it walks, your heart starts to pound and adrenaline rushes through your body. You know a creature of magnificent strength, size, and power is in the area. The grounds are quiet and the anticipation rises. Will there be a kill?

The Big Five are some of the largest and most fearsome game famous to Africa, and include the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo.

• Lions are an extremely social mammal, traveling in prides with an average of 15 individuals.

• Leopards lounge in trees to watch for prey and hide from predators. One of the greatest areas in Africa to spot Leopards is Sabi-Sands game reserve.

• Rhinos (Black and White) are among the most popular animals still being poached today. Poachers sell their horns for large sums of money.

• Elephants weigh around 12,000 lbs. and are the largest mammal on land. Large numbers of elephant can been seen in the Chobe Game Reserve in Botswana and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

• Buffalo are usually observed traveling in large herds near water holes and can weigh over 1500 lbs. They have been known to attack and kill unfortunate hunters who moved to close.

The best African safaris to view the Big Five can be found in Kruger National Park, Sabi-Sands game reserve, North-West Province , Moremi National Park, and Mana Pools.

Adventure through the plains of Africa on an authentic family safari or honeymoon safari , and experience a world of true beauty and splendor. Hills of Africa Travel will take care of all your travel details and create a tailored itinerary around your preference. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802.

Animal Spotlight: Spotted Hyena

Scavengers. Carnivores. Hunters. The relentless spotted hyena will stop at nothing to snag a meal, even if that means stealing it from a cheetah. Usually hunters of the night, these aggressive creatures have the ability to kill wildebeest, antelope, zebra, buffalo, and any leftovers another predator might have abandoned in the brush. The aggressive spotted hyena have also been known to kill humans, but don’t worry, safari rides are perfectly safe!

Spotted hyena have excellent sight and hearing, and can run for long distances without tiring. When these animals hunt, they chase their prey until it’s exhausted at which point they devour the catch.

Among the three species of hyena, the spotted hyena is the largest and can be found throughout much of Africa’s desert terrain. They live in clans of approximately 30-40 members, with some reaching up to 80 members.

Peculiar Facts:

• They really do laugh! Spotted hyenas of course aren’t laughing because something is funny—it’s simply the sound they make.

• Unlike many other species of game, there is no alpha male leading the spotted hyena clan—it’s the alpha female that leads the clan. The other females are also superior to all males in the clan.

• Spotted Hyena milk is made up of nearly four times more protein than cow milk.

Spotted hyena can be seen on African safari tours throughout much of the continent along with other fascinating game, such as leopard, lion, and zebra. An African safari vacation is sure to excite the entire family and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Find out how you can Live the Magic of Africa with Hills of Africa Travel. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 to learn more about our family safari and honeymoon safari itineraries.

10 Reasons why Tswalu, Kalahari is a Must-See

Enjoy personalized services and luxurious accommodations at Tswalu in Kalahari, the largest private game reserve in South Africa, situated in the Northern Cape Province. This once in a lifetime trip combines luxury, adventure, and tranquility for all who visit. It’s not just a vacation—it’s a life altering experience…

1. The Kalahari offers some of the most stunning game viewing in Africa. Take an exhilarating safari through this captivating reserve and observe endangered species, leopard, lion, wildebeest, rhino, zebra, python, and so much more.

2. Use your photography skills to create a photo layout comparable to ones seen in National Geographic Magazine.

3. After your morning safari, relax in Tswalu’s tranquil pool—frozen drink in hand, or take a trip to the nearby prehistoric beaches.

4. For a new spin on the traditional vehicle safari, take a ride on horseback along Kalahari’s many trails and observe the region’s game, wildlife nests, and stunning scenery.

5. Taking a break from all the adventures Kalahari has to offer is simple at Tswalu’s Sanctuary Spa. Among their many spa treatments, you can treat yourself to a revitalizing massage in the privacy of your own suite. You’ll awake the next morning refreshed and prepared to take on your next adventure.

6. Tswalu’s dune dinning is a magnificent way to enjoy delicious cuisine under the sparkling stars and among the beauty of nature. Sharing a bottle of wine and exciting stories from the day is a great way to unwind before retreating back to your suite for a wonderful night’s sleep.

7. Tswalu cleverly combines luxurious accommodations with Kalahari culture and materials. Enjoy a shower inside your suite or outside when the day is beginning to cool. Internet and satellite TV are easily accessible for when you want to get back in touch with friends and family at home. The combination of high-end accommodations and cultural surroundings is sure to create a magical experience for the entire family.

8. The prestigious Tswalu, Kalahari was awarded National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s Top 50 Eco-Lodges 2009 and US Conde’ Nast Traveler 2007 World Savers Award, among many other awards. It must be worth experiencing!

9. For golf lovers, Sishen Golf Course winds through a Camelthorn forest, offering a truly unique experience for players. This legendary 18-hole golf course is one of the best in Africa.

10. Each season in the Kalahari boasts different climates which attract various spectrum of game, categorizing Kalahari as a year-round destination. During the rainy season, Zebra and Wildebeest migrate to the grassy areas where water has rejuvenated vegetation while the salt pans of the region fill with water, providing an excellent haven for flamingo to breed.

Find out how you can experience the delightful wonders of Kalahari on an African safari vacation with Hills of Africa Travel. Call us today at (877) 845-4802 and let us create for you a tailored itinerary around your every personal preference.