Hills of Africa travel
A Personal Note from Hill's Of Africa

November 5, 2009

Abby
Michael
Halloween

After an amazing trip to South Africa with our Soul Safari tribe, it was bitter-sweet coming home, but I was so excited to see my husband Mark, and kiddies Abby and Michael.  When I spoke with Michael in the morning telling him I'd arrived safely, he said to me "Hello mummy, can't wait to see you.  Did you buy me Smarties?"  Smarties are South Africa's version of M&M's... typical of my little boy to make sure that I got his candy. 

Saturday was Halloween, so it was a treat for me to be back with my family.  We spent the afternoon and evening with friends, catching up and laughing whilst the kids showed off their Halloween outfits.  Abby was Spiderella and Mikey was a Transformer.  Of course we have far too much candy in our house, which I'm sure you all do too.

I love our family vacations, it's a very special time for us to bond, play "Tickle Monster" and share special memories.  I know it can be daunting choosing family vacations, and so I hope this week's newsletter will give you an idea of how a family vacation to South Africa can be a trip of a lifetime.

Hugs,

Sandy Salle
Sandy Salle

This Week's Article

Plettenberg Bay: More Than Just Another Family Vacation

Plettenberg BayChoosing a destination for the family can be quite the ordeal. Is it a well-rounded location with a variety of things to do? Is it safe? Are there beaches nearby? Will the kids enjoy it? How are the accommodations?

Many times a compromise is necessary when choosing a family destination—but not in the Garden Route's Plettenberg Bay. Whether you're a beach lover, wildlife adventurist, an explorer at heart, a photography enthusiast, or love to fish, Plettenberg Bay has the fascinating ability to bring any passion to life. 

With miles upon miles of sparkling beaches and coastline, estuaries, rocky peninsulas, magnificent mountains, and thick Fynbos forests, Plettenberg Bay is a giant melting pot of indigenous bird, animal, fish, flora, and reptile species.

But this area of the Garden Route is more than a wildlife sanctuary—it is a place rich with cultural heritage, unique learning experiences, and activities that the entire family can enjoy together. Whether your family enjoys the relaxing aspect of nature such as laying on the beach, or more physically-oriented activities such as hiking and touring, you're sure to find a rewarding family experience in Plettenberg Bay. 

Some of the area's most famous family-oriented activities include:

Monkeyland Primate SanctuaryA trip to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary: As the world's only free-roaming multispecies monkey sanctuary, Monkeyland is an exciting and interactive learning experience for all of its visitors—no matter their age. During your visit to Monkeyland, you can experience an intimate, one-hour walking safari with Monkeyland's highly-knowledgeable game rangers and view a variety of primates from all around the world as well as a plethora of exotic bird species. Because these primates roam about the sanctuary completely free from cages, you have the opportunity to interact with these creatures without any barriers—a rare and highly-rewarding experience. In addition to a walking safari through the sanctuary, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and lunch amongst the primates. Monkeyland is a completely self-sustaining sanctuary that remains open thanks to tourists who visit the area. 

Elephant SanctuaryA trip to Elephant Sanctuary: The Elephant Sanctuary is an exceptional safe haven for young African elephants that are able to roam freely without any restraints or caging and are able to enjoy a safe and playful setting, free from environmental hazards. This unique setup allows sanctuary visitors to interact with these gentle giants as they get up-close and personal. The Elephant Sanctuary takes great pride in their family-oriented operation and their superior staff ensures you have the family affair of a lifetime. In addition to their commitment to pleasing visitors, the Elephant Sanctuary staff is equally devoted to ensuring all of the elephants are safe, happy, and well-taken care of. During your tour through the elephant sanctuary you will have the exclusive opportunity to not only interact with these extraordinary creatures, but also pet, feed, and walk trunk-in-hand with them.   

Garden Route of Plettenberg BayA walking tour: Thanks to an unspoiled coastline, intricate wetlands, and thriving forest systems your family can enjoy a wide spectrum of activities and learning experiences. A walking tour through this area of the Garden Route is extremely diverse and provides a rich learning experience to all. With a variety of walking trails to choose from throughout the Plettenberg Bay area, you have the opportunity to experience a plethora of differing eco-systems. Choose from mountain walking tours, forest hiking tours, the Tsitsikamma Trail, and more.

Hills of Africa Travel Recommends

Ride Kenya Safari - AUGUST 23- SEPTEMBER 2, 2010

Mount KilimanjaroTrip Name: Kenya Riding Safari
Length of travel: 11 days (August 2010)
Countries Visited: Kenya

Highlights: With access to over 1.4 million acres, including two national parks, Ride Kenya has one of the largest wilderness concessions in Africa today. From the vast dry lake beds of Amboseli to the east, to the majestic Chyulu Hills to the west, Ride Kenya horse safaris traverse a variety of quintessential and game rich East African landscapes. With Mount Kilimanjaro as the back drop, the rides meander amongst 38 species of large mammals, including the Big Five, making Ride Kenya horse safaris an unforgettable experience. Ride Kenya mobile safaris are reminiscent of the safaris of old. Rides tend to cover between 15 to 30 miles per day during which the luxury camp is moved ahead to the next destination.

Detailed description of itinerary (in PDF)

Contact us today, and utilize our detailed destination-planning services and expert advice to send you on a life-altering experience like none other.

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About Hills of Africa Travel

Meredith Hill and Sandy SalleHills of Africa Travel specializes in customized African safari tours.

We offer spectacular adventures with personalized and customized service, guaranteed to provide you with the experience of a lifetime.

Hills of Africa Travel is a team of extraordinary travel agents and tour operators who are passionate about sharing the magic of Africa through first-hand knowledge and exemplary customer service. Our expert knowledge, experience, and passion for our customers allow us to create a personalized safari adventure of a lifetime for all travelers.

Whether you're taking a romantic honeymoon safari, a fun-filled family safari, or have always dreamed of experiencing the natural beauty of Africa and its wildlife, our exceptional agents and dedicated tour operators are here to provide you with the perfect African safari vacation.

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The Hills of Africa Travel Newsletter is written by Meredith Hill and Sandy Salle and Hillsofafrica.com. If you have any questions or comments, please send them to: hoainfo@hillsofafrica.com

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