Africa is a vast continent and it can be difficult to choose an adventure tour from all the many options that are possible. If wide distances will be covered on a vacation, then consider renting a vehicle from one of the online rental agencies that serve the African continent. Below is a list of 5 favorite tours in Africa which are sure to please any adventurous traveler.
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania and is Africa’s tallest peak. Today the mountain is quite accessible to hikers, but it is still a challenging high altitude climb, although it does not require specialized mountaineering skills. It is important to be in good physical condition and do considerable walking prior to this tour. Also, a reliable tour operator is essential and it is worth the extra money to make sure that you will receive good and safe service. A 7 day or longer hike is recommended in order to be more fully acclimated to the high altitudes. Also carry medication for treating altitude sickness. By careful planning and following all the instructions of the tour operators, a challenging ascent of the summit is certainly achievable. Be advised that 40% of climbers turn around before reaching the summit but that need not be the outcome for a physically fit adventure traveler.
The highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro called Uhuru Peak.
- Take a Traditional African Safari
A traditional game viewing safari is a must do for any adventure traveler in Africa and it is the experience of a lifetime. Researching safari options is recommended since there are a number of excellent tour choices. Just a few top choices include the Selinda Reserve in Botswana with incredible 3-6 day safaris. Kenya’s twin national parks, Tsavo East and West, comprise over 10 million acres of excellent safari land. This particular safari is well known for its large elephant population. Another good choice for a very comfortable camping safari is a week in Northern Tanzania exploring Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater and the famed Serengeti Plain. Or try more primitive camping in Camp Zambezi in Mana Pools National Park. For a more specialized primate safari, consider a trek to visit the elusive mountain gorilla in Rowanda/Ugananda in the Birindi Impenetrable Forest and the Vrunga Volcanoes. A trek into this area is most easily done in the drier season from June to August. - Raft on the Zambezi River
The Zambezi River is justly famous for its excellent white water rapids, some of the best in the world. It has stretches of calm along with quite intense class 5 rapids. The adventure begins at the base of the amazing 350 foot Victoria Falls. Tours can range from half a day to multiple days through exciting rapids, calm waters that conceal crocodiles and lush and scenic gorges. A traveler need not be a veteran rafter for this trip since all rafts are fully staffed for safety, however, the class 5 rapids will definitely be thrilling. - Explore the African Rainforest
The rainforest is yet another amazing region in Africa, filled with lush layers of exotic animals and plants. Meet wide eyed lemurs and gaze on huge Baobab trees that appear to be growing upside down. A trip to one of Madagascar’s national parks will give the traveler a good rainforest encounter. This type of tour could easily be combined with a traditional South African game safari so that an adventurer can truly appreciate the incredible biodiversity of Africa’s different regions. - Explore the Desert Pyramids of Egypt and Cruise the Nile
Egypt is a completely unique experience for a traveler. Obviously many tourists visit the pyramids in droves, but an adventure minded traveler would consider something like a private eco tour of the region, using 4X4 jeep vehicles to explore the Egyptian Sahara. An 8 day tour could include the wonders of the pyramids at Giza and the Sphinx, ancient Memphis, Thebes and the Valley of the Kings. Sail to visit the Temple of Horus and then continue to cruise along the Nile towards Upper Egypt and the Aswan. The key to a successful African adventure is good planning so that the tour meets both adventure expectations and budget. There is so much to see and do in Africa that an adventure filled with incredible memories is sure to await the African traveler. If you are ready for adventure, Africa is ready for you!
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