Showing posts with label Africa Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Africa Travel. Show all posts

Machu Picchu Travel Guide

One of the most popular archeological sites of the world, and therefore, the most visited attraction in Peru. The Citadel of Machu Picchu (in Quechua [an Andean language] = Old Mountain) is known throughout the world for its amazing ruins and its unusual location on a high mountain overlooking the mighty currents of the Urubamba river.
Even today nobody has been able to solve the mystery how the builders and designers managed to transport the huge blocks of limestone to the top of the mountain required for the construction of the city.
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Probably built during the 15th century in a very difficult location, it is the greatest achievement of the Incas architects due to the intelligence and dare demonstrated by their design. It has an extent of 13 sq/km and its main functions were military and religious. It used to be surrounded by an outer wall with a height of 6.00 m. and a width of 1.80 m. and it is estimated that it was inhabited by 10000 people. Built of limestone (the outer and inner walls), wood (doors and frames), and ceilings made of straw.
Machu Picchu is located 2300 meters above sea level (7546 ft.), at 112 km. (70 miles) from Cusco, in the valley of Urubamba in the lowest part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in a area of direct access to the upper jungle. Without doubt, Machu Picchu was part of a very big complex of fortresses which defended the Andean lands in Sacred valley of any assault from indian people out of the Jungle.
Having Huayna Picchu as a background they divided Machu Picchu in four sectors. Northwest is located the area that was probably used for the main religious purposes, that includes a Plaza named by Hiram Bingham as "Sacred Plaza", also the temple of the "Three Windows", "The Sacred Temple", the "Priests Mansion", and the "Intihuatana" that is a large block of limestone used during Inca ceremonies.
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The "Intihuatana" (in Quechua = place where the sun is bonded) is a solar observatory that allowed the Incas to keep track of the seasons of the year and the flow of time based on the shadows caused by the sun over the stone.
The largest residences are located on the northeast of the complex. The most luxurious residences and also a watch tower are located on the southwest of the complex and therefore it is assumed that this part of the Citadel was probably the heart of all the urban activities. To the southeast of the complex are located the smallest and most humble of the buildings built around very narrow streets, close to numerous terraces constructed for agricultural purposes as denoted by the existence of a very complex aqueduct system in this area. In the lowest part of the terraces is a cementery, where during a search were discovered 135 skeletons and 109 of them were identified as females. This fact has allowed historians and archeologists to believe that Machu Picchu's inhabitants were mostly females that could have been the chosen ones of the Inca, fleeing from Cusco when it was overrun by the Conquerors of Spain and seeking refuge in Machu Picchu that, by the way, was never discovered by the Spaniards.
The minimum recommended time to visit Machu Picchu is one day. But if possible, allot two days. The weather is always changing in Aguas Calientes and it is well worth the extra time to experience a pristine, sunny Machu Pichu. After traveling thousands of miles, and paying hundreds of dollars, do not gamble on only one day in one of the greatest cultural heritage sites in Peru. There are several treks around Machu Pichu, such as Winay Wayna, that must not be missed. Winay Wayna is roughly a 50 minute hike (one way), not for the faint of heart. Bring water, and your camera and get ready for some of the most breathtaking views of Machu Pichu and the surrounding area available. Do not miss Winay Wayna! Another great side trip is Huayna Picchu. The Inca Trail trek is also worth while for those in need of a little more adventure and with more time on their hands. Information on this trek is avaliable at anyone of the numerous "travel agencies" in the Plaza Del Armas in Cuzco.
An alternative to the fully booked Inca Trail trek is the beautiful 5 day Salkantay trek featuring less Inca ruins on the way to Machu Picchu, but superb mountain views.

Bloemfontein—The Spring Flower in South Africa

The beautiful and blooming city of Bloemfontein is the capital city of the Free State Province of South Africa  as well as one of the nation’s three capitals, the judiciary capital. The city name “Bloemfontein”, is originated form Dutch language meaning “spring of Bloom (bloom)”, “flower spring” or “fountain of flowers”. What makes this city win such a poetic title is the splendor and magnificence in its state of the art architectural and natural locations.
With reference to some old dictionaries and encyclopedia, the city’s Sesotho name is “Mangaung” Manguang means “a place of cheetahs”, and indicates that the region must have formed an ideal habitat at for these creators before the human intruders. In recent times, Bloemfontein is also popularly and poetically known as “the city of roses”, owing to the abundance of these flowers and the annual rose festival held there each year.
Another amazing fact about Bloemfontein is that the city is situated on dry grassland. It is home to 369,568 residents, as per the last count we could possibly get and is served by the Bloemfontein airport. Daily flights to Bloemfontein fly form London UK, to Bloemfontein and connections through Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban.
The cheap flights to South Africa are operated by certain Arab airline such as Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, KLM and Air France. Among direct flights to Bloemfontein South Africa, actually the best option for cheap tickets to Bloemfontein is to find a flight to Johannesburg or Cape Town direct and than a connection to Bloemfontein. As there are no direct Bloemfontein flights but those direct to South Africa and than to Bloemfontein.
Tourists in Bloemfontein have the unique opportunity to interact with some of the world’ wildest creatures i.e., Cheetah, Lion, Leopard, Tiger as well as other animals that have been rescued at the Cheetah Experience in the suburb of Bainsvlei, only 5mins from the centre of Bloemfontein. Touching of animals is allowed, for it can be risky for the animal as well as our selves. However, coming face to face with these wild creatures outside of a zoo environment, in the most natural habitats is a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed. It is opportunities like this that make South Africa outshine rest of the Holiday destinations and make it the World capital of Tourism.
While on a trip in Bloemfontein, one can also enjoy a day or a sleep over at the Bloemfontein Zoo. Zoo Snoozes are only one of the activities arranged by Friends of the Bloemfontein Zoo. However, booking your place prior arrival or checking for tickets is suggested. Summer, autumn or winter, Tourists flock to Bloemfontein at large almost throughout the year. Another visiting point is the Boyden Observatory, a unique astronomy research and educational centre outside the city, offers public open evenings on certain nights during the year, arranged by the Friends of Boyden Observatory. Groups, School and college trips can also visit the observatory for exclusive evenings on appointment. Ahead the Naval Hill is the Franklin Game Reserve. It was named after John Franklin, South African Senator, attorney and Mayor of Bloemfontein in the 1930s and is also worth a visit in your next trip to Bloemfontein South Africa.

Cairo Travel Guide

As you fly into to Cairo, Egypt one will be left speechless as they look out the window and see the contrast of the setting. Out one side of the plane, you can see the vast arid desert which seems to be never ending; out the other side of the plane you see a busy city which looks like a modern day Oasis. Travelers from all over the world have been marveling at Egypt 's wondrous antiquities for thousands of years. Although these antiquities still exist today, a visit to Cairo , Egypt is more than an immersion into the past but also encompasses many modern day amenities which anyone will be sure to enjoy.
Just walking around downtown and in the older residential parts inside the wall of the city where craftsmen work on the sidewalks outside their homes is also a real pleasure. It is easy to meet real Cairenes that are eager to discuss anything with you. Some of them try to lure you into their carpetshop; others are really interested and interesting to talk with.
If you are hungry make sure to try the most popular Egyptian dish, Koshray. Koshray is a traditional Egyptian meal that consists of a delectable combination of macaroni, spaghetti, rice, black lentils, chick peas, garlic sauce and a spicy tomato chili sauce, all topped with fried onions.

A visit to the pyramids and the Sphinx is a must, since these Egyptian icons are living and existing marks for the fascinating history that Egypt carries and is proud of. Just be aware for the aggressive Egyptian friendliness overthere from camel drivers or policemen who try to earn a few Egyptian pounds from you (they call it bahshis, a tip). Just ask a friendly tourist to assist you in making a picture from you and you will not leave the pyramids with an irritated feeling about this Egyptian earning strategy. While in the city make sure you visit the museum first before going to see pyramites. You will appreciate more to the culture of ancient Egypt. It is advice not to make the pyramite visits on Fridays due to mass at noon time 12-13. The pyramites are closed during the time period.
Cairo,historical and unique city, combinds old city and modern city. I enjoyed a lot travering around this city. One of the most surprising things for me, a Japanese traveler, is the price which is not fixed from taxi to a bottel of water. So I had to ask the price first and start negociating for discount. To me who traveled many countries, people in Cairo is the hardest negociator for free travelar. I was very tired. But still, Cairo is worth to go, I think, because of its historical heritage.
Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Tsutomu

Mali Travel Guide

Mali is landlocked country in Africa. It is bordered by Mauritania, Algeria, Nigerja, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinee Conakry and Senegal.

Mali is a fascinating country to explore. With its old cities along the Niger river and its well documented history, it gives you an unique insight in pre-colonial African civilization. Gao, Djenne, with its famous mosque, Segou, Mopti and Timbuktu all are very exciting travel destinations.


Dogon Country is possibly even more exciting to explore. The way the Dogon people have survived over the centuries in this barren land teaches us all a lesson.

Mali is also famous among the traveler community for its laidback atmosphere, its easy going people, Those thnings make a trip to Mali worth your while.

Uganda Travel Guide

Uganda is a landlocked treasure seated on the world's second largest fresh water body, Lake Victoria. Bordering Rwanda and Tanzania to the south, Kenya to the east, Sudan to the north and Zaire to the west, Ugnda is truly worth a visit. Oral tradition describes several African Kingdoms in the area, most of which are still in existence today. Uganda is filled with magnificent scenery, including snowcapped mountains, thick tropical forests and semidesert areas truly making it, as Winston Churchill described, the "Pearl of Africa". Lakes cover more than a sixth of Uganda.


The capital, Kampala with its bustling streets filled with its many merchants and commuters is truly worth a visit. From the locals crying "Mzungu, Mzungu!!" to the children running to the edge of the street just to wave at you, and the general hospitality that all of the locals seem to have, it is quite obvious that Uganda's national motto "For God And My Country" truly reflects the heart of many of its citizens.

Uganda is truly a leader in the East African community being one of the first African countries to see the AIDS epidemic begin to turn around due primarily to an increase in the practice of Abstinence, its effects can still be seen among the populace with over 50% of Uganda's population being under the age of 15, most of which seem to have lost one or both of their parents, and have had to be raised by relatives or friends, or in many cases have grown up in one of the many homes for abandoned and orphaned children.


If you take the beautiful drive about an hour East of the capital, you will reach the town of Jinja, home to what many agree is the source of the Nile River. Other interesting places to visit are Ssese Islands, Entebbe and Kabale. Highly recommmended is also the Bwindi National Park.

With the exception of some few parts of Northern Uganda still plagued by the Lord's Resistance Army rebellion, the country is generally peaceful and enjoys full security. The Country is located in the heart of the great African high Plateau that rolls from Ethiopian highlands towards southern Africa. It lies astride the Equator between Latitudes, 4° 12°N and 1° 29°S. Its bound with Longitude 29° 34°E and 35° O' E.

Mali Travel Guide

Mali is landlocked country in Africa. It is bordered by Mauritania, Algeria, Nigerja, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinee Conakry and Senegal.

Mali is a fascinating country to explore. With its old cities along the Niger river and its well documented history, it gives you an unique insight in pre-colonial African civilization. Gao, Djenne, with its famous mosque, Segou, Mopti and Timbuktu all are very exciting travel destinations.


Dogon Country is possibly even more exciting to explore. The way the Dogon people have survived over the centuries in this barren land teaches us all a lesson.

Mali is also famous among the traveler community for its laidback atmosphere, its easy going people, Those thnings make a trip to Mali worth your while.

Comoros Travel Guide

Located in a strategic position at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel, the Comoros Islands once played a major role in a thriving world economy of the western Indian Ocean. Now they are a holiday paradise with great opportunities for diving, swimming and eco-tourism.

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The archipelago is the result of volcanic activity. The four major islands: Ngazidja the largest island with the capital city Moroni, Mwali, Nzwani and Mayotte - still part of France and also known as Maore, are of varying age with distinct topograhical characteristics. Mayotte, the oldest of the islands, is highly eroded with slow, meandering streams. Ngazidja, the youngest of the islands, is closest to Africa, has a massive volcano, and marked by fresh lava flows. In October, 2000, the volcano showed signs of increased seismic activity.
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The islands possess a variety of animal life with several species unique to the Comoros or rarely found elsewhere. The famous Coelacanth, a fish once thought to be extinct for millions of years, is found very much alive in Comorian waters. Livingstone's flying fox, a giant fruit bat with a wing span over four feet, is found nowhere else in the world. Several varieties of insects, including the butterfly pictured at left, and over a dozen species of birds are unique to the islands. Many of these species are now being threatened with extinction.