Africa: Getting Back to the Basics

The astounding beauty of Africa's many regions has attracted Western explorers, sparked wars and piqued historians' interests for centuries upon centuries. From the tranquil Mediterranean coast of North Africa to the thriving southern tip of Cape Town, the great continent spans over 10,000 indigenous tribes, more than 500 languages and over 60 independent nations and political territories.

Africa is referred to as the cradle of human life as we know it, being the oldest inhabited territory in the world. Travel through Africa will reveal the modern dilemma of a region pushing forward with globalization and technology at the same time that many cultures and tribes are striving to protect their traditional way of life. In addition to human life, Africa supports the world's most spectacular collection of rare species and biodiversity. Encountering Africa's wilderness firsthand is not only a radically unique experience, but also a once-in-a-lifetime privilege that future generations may not have the opportunity to share.

Many Regions, More Identities
The overwhelming expanse of the African continent is best understood and traveled by region. The different regions in Africa are individually as diverse as the continent in its entirety, and the complexities of the cultures and nationalities leave the unsuspecting traveler dumbfounded.

The predominantly Arabic culture of North Africa enjoys the Mediterranean shore, from the majestic pyramids in Egypt to the enchanting Moorish architecture of Morocco. For the adventurous, the Sahara Desert lies just to the south and brings this region drier, hotter summers compared with its northern Mediterranean neighbors. Along the Atlantic Ocean, West Africa is predominantly comprised of Africa's savannahs, known for their exciting wildlife safaris. The west is also home to Africa's greatest cultural and political diversity, largely a result of the colonial era and the Slave Trade. East Africa is one of the most popular destinations where Africa's two tallest peaks, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, soar imperially above great concentrations of elephants, water buffalo and rhinoceros. Visitors also venture east to explore the Great Rift Valley, a geologic wonder formed by the global movement of the earth's plates. Southern Africa is a blend of forests, grasslands and deserts rich with diamonds and gold. Travel in southern Africa is unique due to the high population of Europeans and Indians; consequently, a distinct culture of food, music, art and religion has emerged from the blending of traditions.

Growing urban centers, breathtaking national parks and endless encounters with the past is only the beginning of your African travels. Travel to Africa and meet the many faces of our global history. The constant adventure and intellectual intrigue of this multifaceted and ancient continent is a journey that will be cherished for a lifetime. For more information, visit http://www.cfares.com, your source for cheap airfare on the web.

Going to Africa? Lend a Helping Hand While Going on Safari

To those living outside of the continent, Africa represents exotic locales, the opportunity to witness an incredible variety of wildlife, and experiences that will create lifelong memories. The idea of an African safari conjures up images of bumpy rides on dirt roads, lodges with few amenities, and glimpses of elusive creatures during the night. Today, while a classic African safari is certainly available, an increasing number of travelers are opting to make a safari part of a larger eco-friendly vacation that includes giving back to the people and places of Africa through volunteerism.

Africa: More than You Imagine

When you spend your holidays in Africa, you find that each country and region offers a unique array of opportunities, from gorilla trekking to white water rafting to mountain climbing to the traditional safari.

With the Masai Mara's open savannah, Kenya is known for the safari experience. Yet it also offers enticing treks up Mt. Kenya, exciting white water rafting down the Nile, and scuba diving and sailing along the Kenyan coastline. Meanwhile, Tanzania beckons with the Serengeti and the world's most densely populated area of wildlife. It also features the largest volcanic depression, the Ngorongoro Crater, as well as Mt. Kilimanjaro, and the spectacular beaches of Zanzibar.

If you choose to vacation in South Africa, you'll encounter an ocean lover's paradise in Cape Town, the whale watching capital of the world. After your ocean safari, you can experience breathtaking botanical gardens and a penguin colony, as well as the primate sanctuary in Tsitsikamma National Park.

The country of Namibia offers a gateway to Victoria Falls, as well as subterranean lakes, enormous canyons, and a desert that brings together lions, giraffes, elephants, and rhinoceros. For the ultimate safari vacation, though, a trip to Botswana is in order. Both the Chobe National Park and the Moremi Game Reserve will give you the opportunity to view unprecedented varieties of wildlife and birds.

When it comes to Egypt, culture reigns. You can experience the wonders of the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings, and the Egyptian Museum. The contrast of ancient artifacts against the backdrop of modern Cairo marries the past and the present for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Holidays that Help

When you embark on an African holiday, you can do more than experience the natural wonders of the continent. You can book your travel with a company that is committed to empowering local communities and that engages in sustainable tourism. When you do, you can not only make arrangements for a safari, but you can also volunteer a few days or a few weeks of your time to help with construction, health care, conservation, or teaching.

Holidays that combine a safari with volunteer work give you a unique perspective on African culture and allow you to come home with a sense of satisfaction for your contributions to a grand and wondrous continent. There's no better feeling in the world!