Africa

Probably one of the most exciting and inspirational places in the world to visit would be Africa. I have been lucky enough on two occasions to spend a great deal of time exploring and having an incredible experience in this wonderful continent. Every minute you seem to experience something new and exciting. Everything from the warm and beautiful African people with their gleaming smiles, songs and laughter, large mountain ranges and canyons, to the wild and exotic animals such as lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants roaming free in their own natural environments. To see these graceful and beautiful animals in their own habit is something that never leaves you (and you are left in awe of what you see and feel at those moments).

If you want to go to Africa make sure you do the following:
 
1. Visit Cape Town and take the Ferry to Robbin Island
2. Safari through the Masi Mara
3. Safari through Kruger National Park
4. Go shopping in Johannesburg
5. Visit Victoria Falls
 
Some of the amazing places I went to during my African travels includes Kruger National Park, one of the most popular places to visit in Africa and full of all the wildlife you dream about seeing - everything from Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Giraffes to the smallest chameleons. You will be amazed by the beauty and expanse of this wonderful National Park and I strongly recommend you tick this one off your travel bucket list!

Another city you must see whilst in South Africa, is Cape Town. Every postcard tells a story and Cape Town is no different. You can choose to enjoy the spectacular views from Table Mountain, shop at the V&A Waterfront or take the ferry out to Robbin Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Whatever you choose to do, Cape Town will certainly leave you wanting more.
 
From South Africa I would recommend heading up to Zimbabwe to experience one of natures wonders, Victoria Falls. From here you can take a helicopter ride over the falls or do what I have done, if your brave enough that is, and white water raft along the Zambezi River for the day. It is well worth the experience and leaves you with a huge sense of achievement.
 
One of Africa's other hidden gems is Blyde River Canyon. This canyon is one of the worlds largest wooden Canyons and if you've ever seen the Grand Canyon then you must see the Blyde river. Africa is very lucky to have so many of natures true wonders, if you have time like I did, I would suggest you move up into Kenya and trek along and into the Masi Mara, one of Africa's most famous areas. Filled with all of Africa's wildlife including Cheetah's all roaming free in their natural environment, this experience will be one that you will talk about for the rest of your life…and never forget!

For Australian travellers visiting Africa the currency conversion is excellent and eating and shopping in South Africa is excellent, but be prepared because the meals served are big, just like Africa itself.

The weather is just like Australia. In Africa they have the same seasons as we do and in summer it is very hot just as it is here. Winter can be wet and cold, but don't expect too much rain, they have some very long dry spells without any rain. I would say that the best time to visit is around the end of the summer months - February March and April, when the weather will be warm and the animals will be active.
 
If you love animals, if you love adventure and you want to experience an adventure you have always dreamt about , then Africa is for you. This beautiful wild and stunning destination makes dreams come true and makes memories that will last a lifetime.

So what are you waiting for, Africa is calling!

By Aaron Sard

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