Little Vumbura: Experience the Magic of this Spectacular Oasis

Explore the unspoiled wilderness of the eclectic Little Vumbura, as you enjoy an authentic African safari vacation. With its private feel and stunning landscape, it’s no wonder Little Vumbura is one of the most highly acclaimed destinations in Africa. Situated at the northern region of the Okavango Delta, this island is nothing short of fascinating.

Adding to the memorable experience, the prestigious ecotourism company, Wilderness Safaris, offers exceptional accommodations, excursions, safaris, and amenities for all its visitors. Little Vumbura has six luxurious tents, which is the perfect way to spend your evenings among the serenity of nature. Situated in a legendary Okavango forest, the camp has a pool and patio area overlooking the sprawling landscape.

The bushveld and floodplains in the area offer spectacular game-viewing year-round. The wide spectrum of vegetation is a haven for exotic birds and other forms of intriguing wildlife, while the multiple waterways spread throughout the area are home to hippos, antelope, and crocodile.

The surrounding floodplains are a popular place to view zebra, wildebeest, and Cape buffalo as they quench their thirst in the hot African sun.

An adventurous Little Vumbura safari is nothing short of a sheer delight! Not only is the area one of the best spots for game-viewing in Africa, but the landscape is absolutely stunning.

Little Vumbura safaris:

• Enjoy a wide spectrum of game, such as the waterbuck, giraffe, elephant, Cape buffalo, vervet monkey, cheetah, lion, and baboon. The full range of creatures in the area, and the opportunity to see all of the animals known as the Big Five, makes this location a must-see destination.
  


• Observe a vast amount of vibrant birds, such as the wattled crane, egret, little bee-eater, and fan-tailed widowbird.
  


• Choose from various types of safaris in the area, such as a game drive, walking safari, dug-out canoe (Mokoro) safari, or power boat safari. Whatever your preference, Wilderness Safaris is there to make sure you’re satisfied.

Experience a world like no other on the eclectic island of Little Vumbura. Hills of Africa Travel is dedicated to creating the perfect itinerary for you, around your every preference. Whether planning an African family safari, or honeymoon safari, Hills of Africa Travel is there to make your dreams come true. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802. Isn’t it time you took the trip of a lifetime in the hills of Africa?

The Emin Pasha Hotel: Treat Yourself to an African Safari Trip of a Lifetime

Relax in the lap of luxury while on an exquisite African safari vacation at the enchanting Emin Pasha Hotel, in the capital of Uganda, Kampala. This boutique hotel, situated outside of the bustling urban life of the City, boasts an elegant and charming atmosphere, and is the perfect place to stay while on a gorilla trekking safari, family safari, or honeymoon safari.

The Emin Pasha Hotel is:

• Defined by its constant, exceptional service. Whatever your need, the staff at The Emin Pasha Hotel is dedicated to fulfilling that need to your complete satisfaction.


• Full of fantastic, modern amenities, sure to satisfy your every desire while on an African safari vacation.


• A boutique hotel, equipped with 20 luxurious rooms. After a long day on an adventurous African safari, retreat to your room where the majestic landscape and magical aura of Africa comes to life through the room’s set up and décor. Egyptian cotton sheets, wrought-iron bathtubs, elegant hardwood floors, and the perfect bed to rest, are just a few of the many elements included in each room.


• Recognized for its extraordinary dining and world-renowned wine selections. The celebrated Fez Brasserie and Wine Bar is considered one of the most exclusive and high-end places to dine in Uganda. Your palate will be delighted by each dish, as they offer a fusion of international and local flavors.

• Well-known for its majestic spa. Enjoy a day of pure bliss as you relax in the spa’s tranquil setting while receiving a relaxing facial, sensual massage, or delightful pedicure, among many other services.


• Known for its awe-inspiring architecture and interior design. Old-world Africa fuses together with a modern flare to create a truly exceptional and unique atmosphere at the Emin Pasha Hotel.

• Located in two acres of relaxing exotic gardens full of flowers, intricate vines, and canopying trees. The Emin Pasha Hotel is also the perfect distance from the center of town, where shopping, dining, and entertainment thrives.

Don't miss out on staying at one of the most celebrated hotels in Africa. Isn’t it time you indulged yourself with a luxurious African safari vacation ? Or the perfect honeymoon safari vacation? Hills of Africa Travel is dedicated to building the perfect travel itinerary around your every personal preference. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802, to learn more about a life-altering African safari trips

Culture Spotlight: The San Tribe’s Bushmen

An African Safari vacation is not just about the sightseeing and game-viewing—it’s about experiencing a unique culture completely separate from your own. One of the most intriguing and unique cultures in all of Africa is the San Tribe’s Bushmen. The emotional and spiritual fulfillment of immersing yourself in this unique culture cannot be matched by any other experience.

Known as hunters and gatherers, the people of this culture were the earliest settlers in the Kalahari Desert region. There is an estimated 85,000 indigenous Bushmen alive today, according to National Geographic magazine. The Bushmen’s legendary history dates back tens of thousands of years ago. In fact, according to several genetic studies, all of humankind can be traced back to these people.

Enjoy an interactive walk with them through the villages, as they share with you their extensive knowledge about survival and the secrets of the land. Hear them interact through a unique language, which consists of various “click” sounds. This rare insight into the intriguing San Tribe allows you to learn about their effective hunting skills and crafting skills. Discover how to make an authentic bow and arrow from natural resources, and understand which wild plants are edible and which ones aren’t.

The tribe’s immense respect for nature is illustrated through their lifestyle choices. They do not cultivate crops, or keep cattle or any other animals. Their knowledge about plants is so extensive, that they know which ones to eat for nutritional purposes, and which ones to use for medicinal purposes. The act of going out together to gather plants is a huge social activity for the community.

Another way they show this respect for nature is through their hunting traditions. When they kill an animal for food they use every part of the animal, wasting nothing. The tribesmen usually hunt zebra, lion, antelope, and other wild game, and use the meat for food, and the hides for blankets.

While on a Botswana family safari, or honeymoon safari prepare to be bewildered by the Bushmen’s legendary history as you spend time with them in a local village opening your mind to an exceptional and diverse culture. Understanding the Bushmen’s deep respect for nature is not only enlightening, but humbling, as well. Contact Hills of Africa Travel today at (877) 845-4802, to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Animal Spotlight: The Gorilla

Native to Rwanda, Uganda, and parts of the Congo, the mountain gorilla is one of the most mesmerizing and delightful creatures to observe in the entire world. Observing a creature believed to be an evolutionary link to man, makes gorilla tracking safaris an extremely unique and rewarding experience. Encountering these intimidating creatures is a once in a lifetime opportunity, that is both rare and adventurous in scope.

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species with only a few hundred still surviving today. According to an article on the Animal Planet website, “The mountain gorillas are the only great apes whose numbers are actually growing. Although this species remains endangered, their numbers have grown from 248 to over 360 individuals in the Virunga Massif in Rwanda alone. The total number of mountain gorillas is estimated to be 700-750 individuals.”

There are several factors, which have led to such a massive decrease in the mountain gorilla population. One factor has been people destroying forests and therefore destroying the habitats of these enormous creatures. Also, poachers sell the mountain gorillas’ meat and fur for commercial purposes.

Shocking Mountain Gorilla Facts:

• Communicable human diseases have been known to affect the gorilla population. Gorillas can catch the flu, measles, tuberculosis, and other viruses from human contact.
  


• Full-grown male adults weigh approximately 500 lbs.
  


• When threatened, the mountain gorilla will push off the ground, balance on its back legs, and pound its chest.
  


• Mountain gorillas are classified mainly as herbivorous, but have been known to eat small animals.
  


• Wild mountain gorillas usually live to be around 35 years-old.
  


• Species of gorilla include the western lowland gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and the mountain gorillas.
  

Seeing a gorilla in the wild is difficult to describe. You can feel the adrenaline pump through your veins as they rise from the ground with a grunt and pound the ground as they walk through the forest. If you’re ready to experience the enchanting adventure of gorilla tracking on an African family safari or honeymoon safari, contact Hills of Africa Travel today at (877) 845-4802. Our expert team is dedicated to creating the perfect itinerary, tailored to each client’s personal preferences.

Singita Grumeti Reserve Introduces Two New, Highly-Adventurous Safaris

Explore the unspoiled outdoors of the Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania, on an African family safari, or honeymoon safari. This magnificent Reserve provides some of the most exciting African safari adventures in the entire continent.

Captivating wild-game, exotic birds, grazing mammals, and intriguing reptiles are prolific throughout the entire Reserve, offering the most memorable experiences for all who visit. With some of the greatest excursions and fascinating wildlife in all of Africa, it’s no wonder the Singita Grumeti Reserve is rated as one of the greatest places to take an African safari vacation.

The Singita Grumeti Reserve now offers balloon and horseback safaris, for those looking for a new spin on the traditional vehicle safari. Both the balloon and horseback safaris offer a unique and exciting look into the wilderness of the land.

Balloon Safari

Enjoy a soothing trip through the clouds and above the treetops on one of Singita Grumeti Reserve’s balloon safaris. Experience a unique look at the Serengeti Plains as you glide through the air on a one hour hot-air balloon ride, guaranteed to tickle you with delight. Boasting fantastic game-viewing, this safari is a must for those interested in utilizing their photography skills. Souring above the vast plains on this tranquil safari, you’ll observe a variety of game and stunning landscape as far as the eye can see. A balloon safari is an excellent way to enjoy nature in a blissful setting, while experiencing a new and exciting form of transportation.

Horseback Safari

Ever wonder what safari is the most thrilling of them all? A horseback safari is at the top of the list. You can’t get any closer to nature than riding on the back of an animal, while it runs next to a herd of mesmerizing zebra. This safari places you right in the middle of the action. Feel the exhilaration as you run next to a herd of antelope, encounter a lion stalking its prey, or trot next to a baby elephant and its mother. From the very beginning of this safari to the very end, you’ll experience the most thrilling and life-altering experience you could ever imagine. If you’re an experienced rider and want to take an unforgettable African safari vacation, a horseback safari is perfect for you.

After an exhilarating day with nature, enjoy a luxurious 4-night stay at Singita Grumeti Reserve’s exclusive Sasakwa and Faru Faru lodges.

If you are truly ready for the trip of a lifetime, than the Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania is the perfect destination for you. Hills of Africa Travel is dedicated to crafting personalized itineraries for all client preferences. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802, and let us create for you a life-altering African family safari, honeymoon safari, or any safari in between.

The Best of Wilderness Safaris’ Botswana Excursions—Part I

Botswana is a land rich with a wide spectrum of year-round game viewing, beauty, and cultural diversity. With over 500 species of bird, a wide variety of mammal and reptile, and a plethora of exotic fish, it’s no wonder Botswana is one of the top places to experience an African safari. If you’re interested in seeing large, powerful animals, such as the Big Five, a Botswana safari vacation is perfect for you.

Wilderness Safaris is one of our favorite suppliers in Botswana, providing fantastic accommodations and high-end private safaris. With their array of safari choices, you’re sure to find one that fits your individual preference. Their magnificent selection includes:

Chitabe Walking Trails

Become one with nature on a Chitabe walking safari in the Okavango Delta. No longer is a safari vehicle the boundary between you and nature. Feel the texture of the ground beneath your feet as your heart races to the site of a leopard hiding in the bush. With our armed and licensed expert guides, there’s no need to worry about a leopard pouncing on you, even though the probability of one wanting you for dinner is very slim!

This adventurous walking safari lasts as long as you’d like. Our guides will tailor each day’s walking time around your personal preference. No matter how long you decide to walk for, fantastic game-viewing and birding is present every day.

The Great Wilderness Journey

Walk in the shoes of the famous African explorers as you travel back in time through the mysterious land of Africa, on this wild safari adventure. The Great Wilderness Journey incorporates a 19th-century luxury-safari style camping and lodging experience, which truly reflects the lifestyle of past African explorers.

The Great Wilderness Journey allows you to gain knowledge about the history of the land, while exploring its vivacious beauty. The fusion of adventure and serenity will send tingles down your spine as you explore a land like no other. Journeying to the raging Victoria Falls to take part in wild escapades, and discovering the abundant wildlife living along the Linyanti and Chobe Rivers, is an experience like no other. With its vibrant colored wetlands, the Okavango Delta is nothing short of breathtaking.

A truly authentic African experience awaits you in the unspoiled terrain of Botswana. Enjoy a private Botswana family safari, or honeymoon safari, and experience something truly magical. Let Hills of Africa Travel help you build memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802.

The Best of Wilderness Safaris’ Botswana Excursions—Part II

Wilderness Safaris is one of our favorite suppliers in Botswana, offering a large variety of exciting game-viewing experiences and wild safari excursions. In addition to the safaris mentioned in the post before this one, they offer:

The Green Desert Expedition:

Enjoy the magic of the Kalahari Desert, as our expert guides uncover the geology, anthropology, and archeology of the land.

Explore Deception Valley’s legendary rivers in the Kalahari Desert. This expedition takes place during Kalahari Desert’s prime time, when a large variety of animals travel to the area for its abundant water supply. Deception Valley, located on the Kalahari Game Reserve, offers fantastic game-viewing. Frequent visitors to the land include the brown hyaena, meerkat, gemsbok, springbok, and the great black-maned Kalahari lion.

As you travel along the Kalahari Desert on this adventurous expedition, the saltpans of Makgadikgadi are worth stopping at to observe flamingos, wildebeest, and zebras drinking from the water filled saltpans with their young. This large breeding ground is one of the greatest areas to view animals migrating from all over.

The Okavango Delta is another stop on this exciting expedition and offers a stunning view of flourishing wildlife, crystal blue waterways, and breathtaking backdrops.

The Migration Routes:

Explore the magnificent islands of Botswana on walking expeditions, while taking in the spectacular scenery and fresh air. Discover the migration patterns of the animals and follow their patterns when you decide to take your next Botswana safari vacation! The changing of the Kalahari Desert from dry season to rainy season creates a diverse population of animals coming and going during these seasonal changes throughout the year. Follow elephant herds as they travel to the Linyanti concession, or follow a zebra migration to Savuti. The possibilities are endless . . .

Safari for All Seasons:

If you’re looking for an African safari trip filled with adventures and spectacular game viewing, Safari for All Seasons is the perfect safari package for you. During this safari, you travel to three different countries, each full of new and exciting explorations. The wildlife and scenery vary between countries, providing you with a well-rounded experience of Africa, and a new realization of life.

Bring your African safari vacation to life as you travel through South Africa’s various ecosystems to explore budding plants, animals giving birth, vibrant colors in all directions, magnificent scenery, galloping antelope, viscous game, and so much more.

Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you, a spectacular safari itinerary with Wilderness Safaris. Experience the perfect African family safari, or honeymoon safari in the diverse lands of Africa. To learn more about these amazing safari opportunities, contact us today at (877) 845-4802.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge: A Fusion of Luxury and Authenticity

An authentic African safari experience fuses brilliantly with luxurious accommodations at the Tintswalo Safari Lodge, located on the Manyeleti Reserve. This private reserve is home to some of the most exotic birds, game, reptiles, and amphibians in the world, making it the perfect location for an African family safari or honeymoon safari.

Experience what it must have been like, centuries ago, for the European explorers, on a luxury African safari . . .

• Experience a sensational safari with a knowledgeable, private guide. Observe the Big Five stalk their prey, or elephants mingle by the waterhole.

• Pamper yourself at Tintswalo Safari Lodge’s Vital Source Spa, after an exciting day on an African safari tour.

• Tintswalo boasts a passion for the culinary arts, which can be tasted in their delectable cuisines. Enjoy a picnic in the bush, or a candlelit dinner under the stars. Tintswalo Safari Lodge’s chefs blend local flavors with international flavors to create unique dishes with vibrant flavors.

The architectural style of the Tintswalo Safari Lodge reflects the 19th-century luxury-safari style implemented by the first pioneers who came to South Africa in search of its unspoiled treasures. This same luxury is brought to life today . . .

• No request is over looked at the Tintswalo Safari Lodge. Staff is not only attentive, but delightfully friendly.

• A tailored itinerary caters to your every preference, with no detail overlooked—a trip that is both personal and detail oriented.

• Relax on your private deck with a cold cocktail while you observe wildlife at your doorstep, or watch the most gorgeous sunset in the world from your private pool.

Capture the enchantment of the African bush with your loved ones on an African family safari, or enjoy a romantic escapade for two on a South African honeymoon safari. Whatever your preference, Hills of Africa Travel tailors every itinerary to fit personal preferences. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 and take a life-altering trip through the hills of Africa.

Mpumalanga: Experience a Culture, Rich with History and Art

With a colorful cultural fabric, hundreds of activities to choose from, a unique art scene, and intriguing historic sites, Mpumalanga is one of the most highly-acclaimed and distinct places to visit in Africa. The delightful land, striking wildlife, intriguing national landmarks, and distinct works of art, create a taste of adventure, unique to Mpumalanga.

You’re guaranteed to find something new and exciting to do each day . . .

Historic Sites:

The culture seen today in Mpumalanga has deep roots, dating back to its first settlers nearly 100,000 years ago. Saturated with history, Mpumalanga boasts fascinating cave paintings from thousands of years ago, ruins, temples, legendary gold mines, and much more. Uncover the history of the gold mines, which plagued Mpumalanga with greedy settlers, and tour century-old cemeteries.

The Art Scene:

Bursting with artistic culture, Mpumalanga is one of the most charming places to visit for its art community. Art is part of local heritage in Mpumalanga, with the first artwork dating back thousands of years ago, as spiritual paintings on cave walls. The spiritual nature of these paintings can be seen in many local artists’ work today. Their artwork encompasses the true essence of the Mpumalanga culture, and speaks volumes of history. Bead work, mask crafting, basket weaving, and wood carvings are just a few crafts among a wide spectrum, which Mpumalanga’s locals have to offer. The unique combination of pop art and art reminiscent of the cultural heritage, make Mpumalanga a truly unique art scene.

If you’re looking for adventure, beauty, and luxury, Mpumalanga is the perfect place to book an African safari vacation with Hills of Africa Travel. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 to begin your journey to Africa. Enjoy an African family safari, or one of our honeymoon safaris, and experience the magic of Africa.

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.

Walking Safari: The Complete Connection to Nature

Are you ready to take a vacation full of fresh perspectives and life-altering adventures? Zambia’s Luangwa National Park is the place to go. Famous for its exceptional walking safaris, exotic wildlife, unspoiled wilderness, and infinite beauty, the Luangwa National Park is a must see destination for safari enthusiasts.

Filled with a wide spectrum of wildlife, the Luangwa National Park is the ideal haven for water dwellers, land animals, and tree habitants. The intricate streams, which weave throughout the land, stimulating heavy plant growth, and the bending trees, which canopy the streams and earth, create the perfect place for a walking safari.

Celebrating over a 100 different species of mammal, 500 species of bird, and nearly 50 species of reptile, you’re guaranteed to see something extraordinary in Luangwa National Park’s wilderness. Walking safaris bring you closer to exotic wildlife than ever before. No longer do you have a safari vehicle between you and nature. It’s the raw feeling of being among nature with no barriers, which creates a sense of fulfillment and thrill.

During your walking safari, a personal tour guide takes you through the untouched woodlands, open grasslands, and dense forests. You’ll see lions yawning as the afternoon slowly passes, crocodiles waiting patiently in the water, and elephants bathing in the stream with their young. The feeling of pure excitement washes over your body as you stand merely a few feet from these magnificent creatures.

This is not a vacation. This is a one-of-a-kind experience. A perfect memory. Let Hills of Africa Travel plan your African family safari or honeymoon safari. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802. A world of radiating beauty, breath-taking creatures, and fantastic adventure awaits you in the hills of Africa.

Life is perfect on the Garden Route's Beaches

Home to stunning backdrops, sprawling white beaches, and magnificent wildlife, the Garden Route in South Africa is one of the most celebrated vacation destinations in the world. The year-round beauty and ideal climate offer locals and visitors alike, the opportunity to relax on the Garden Route’s many beaches under the African sun.

The pristine, white coastline of the Garden Route is accented perfectly by a mountainous and lush green backdrop. With sheer beauty and tranquility surrounding the area, it’s no wonder the Garden Route is one of the most world-renowned beach destinations.

The variety of Garden Route beaches to choose from may be a difficult task, but whichever beach visitors choose, they’ll never be disappointed. Each beach is a haven for a wide spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy breathing in the ocean’s salty sea breeze, whale watching, diving, water sports, basking in the sun, or photography, you’ll love the golden beaches of the Garden Route.

Choose from:

Mossel Bay

Bordering the Indian Ocean, this seaside delight is rich with culture, adventure, luxurious restaurants, high-end accommodations, museums, and so much more. When the beach gets too hot, take the whole family on a whale watching tour, to the Shell Museum and Aquarium, or to the Maritime Museum. With so much to do you’ll never want to leave.

Plettenberg Bay

Enveloped by the jagged Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains, Plettenberg Bay is an excellent place to hike extraordinary mountains and witness unbelievable landscapes. Relaxing at a nearby café or high-end restaurant is a great way to cool off and spend time reminiscing about the day with family. For a little more adventure, enjoy a one-of-a-kind whale watching excursion for a break from the beach.


The Wilderness Beach

If you’re looking for a beach backdrop with rugged terrain, serrated mountains, and frothy, crashing waves, Wilderness Beach is the place to go. Also excellent for sunbathing and relaxing, this beach uniquely combines excitement and tranquility.

Port Elizabeth

Famous for its sea port, beaches, and fantastic climate, Port Elizabeth is one of the top vacation spots in Africa. The year-round breeze and the warm waters of the Algoa Bay, make Port Elizabeth the ideal location for sailing, windsurfing, and swimming. When it’s time to take a break from the beach, the city offers great shopping, a variety of eateries, historic sites, and much more.

Let Hills of Africa Travel take you to a land where outstanding beauty is met by sheer adventure. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 or visit our website at www.hillsofafrica.com to learn more about our African family safari and honeymoon safari ) itineraries .

Isn’t it time you took your trip of a lifetime?

Animal Spotlight: The Elephant

Living up to its title as one of the Big Five, the African elephant is the largest animal on land, with adults weighing nearly 12,000 lbs., and standing approximately 8 - 13 ft. tall. These tremendous creatures are magnificent to watch while on an African safari tour. Their close knit families, playful manor, and intriguing physique are just a few characteristics luring the attention of visitors.

Bizarre Elephant Details:

• Elephant trunks are made up of more than 40,000 muscles. Compare that number to the human body, which is made up of only 640 muscles . . .

• The elephant’s trunk is a fascinating tool, which performs several different actions. It uses its trunk to smell, drink, breath, and pick things up. Quite the innovative tool.

• All African elephants have tusks which are used as shovels to pick the ground to find water and food.

• Elephants are herbivores—the animal version of a vegetarian.

• There are two species of elephant—the Asian elephant and the African elephant, with the Asian elephant being the smallest of the two.

• Elephants’ ears are an important cooling mechanism during those hot African days. Their ears emit heat in order to cool their bodies. Another way elephants keep cool is splashing through the water. They suck water up their trunks and spray it over their bodies to remain cool.

The mere sight of an elephant on an African safari tour will have your heart pounding with excitement and curiosity. The baby elephants will surely provoke a giggle from within as they prance around waterholes, splashing about.

Discover the magic of an authentic African safari vacation and uncover a world of sheer joy. Our African family safari and honeymoon safari itineraries cater to every individual preference and interest. Contact a Hills of Africa Travel agent today at (877) 845-4802 or visit our website at www.hillsofafrica.com to begin this once in a lifetime journey.

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.

Where are you celebrating New Year's Eve?

We all like to celebrate the arrival of a new year, where are you celebrating this year?

I will be on a beach in Hilton Head, celebrating with friends and family.

Last year, our clients James and Jennifer Fox, celebrated in style at Azura in Mozambique whilst on their African safari honeymoon, and Dennis & Michelle Ventry celebrated with full champagne glasses at Kensington Place in Cape Town.

This year, the Heneault family will be celebrating at Makalolo Plains in Hwange National Park, whilst on their African Safari vacation.

Hills of Africa Travel would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy, healthy and abundant 2009!

Live the Magic of Africa - call Hills of Africa Travel today and book your trip of a lifetime.

Traveling to South Africa - How to Get There?

There are so many options for you to think about when planning for your African Safari Vacation.

One of these is flights and how to get there?

Hills of Africa Travel is here to help you plan your trip of a lifetime and we know the best and easiest ways in getting there.

South African Airways currently flies out of New York Kennedy and Washington Dulles to Johannesburg on a daily basis.

Delta Airlines flies out of Atlanta and New York Kennedy to Johannesburg on a daily basis. Here's a little secret - if you want to fly to Cape Town and begin your Africa family safari in the Cape region, you can connect in Dakar to a direct flight to Cape Town. Plus you get to go into the private Delta Airlines lounge and freshen up - magic.

You can also fly through Europe with night flights and a day to spend exploring in one of the European cities, eg. London.

Hills of Africa Travel specializes in customized African vacations. We offer spectacular adventures with personalized and customized service, guaranteed to provide you with the experience of a lifetime.

The Hills of Africa Travel team is ready to send you on a life-altering experience like no other. Call us today at 1-877-845-4802, or email us at hoainfo@hillsofafrica.com.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

We would like to wish all of our clients, friends, family and travelers to Africa a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Here are some translations for "Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year" in the African languages:

Afrikaans: Geseënde Kersfees en 'n gelukkige nuwe jaar
Somali: Ciid wanaagsan iyo sanad cusub oo fiican
Swahili: Krismasi Njema / Heri ya krismas
Xhosa: Siniqwenelela Ikrisimesi Emnandi Nonyaka Omtsha Ozele Iintsikelelo
Zulu: Sinifesela uKhisimusi oMuhle noNyaka oMusha oNempumelelo

Hills of Africa Travel offers customized itinerary planning and guidance on travel to Southern Africa. To book your trip of a lifetime, contact us.