First Time Travelers

Why Africa?

Why do so many people initially choose Africa? Feature films like The Serengeti, Out of Africa, African Queen and Gorillas in the Mist, along with countless documentaries, have inspired adventure travelers to choose Africa time and time again. Many are drawn by the unique, pristine wilderness in which wildlife still abounds in an unspoiled and exciting environment. Others seek contact with vast, open spaces and traditional African cultures, which can have a meaningful effect on the human spirit - stirring and stimulating the senses, relaxing and revitalizing the mind. No matter the inspiration, travel to Africa means to go back in time and capture the thrill of something entirely different.

The main allure of Africa is that anyone can find an adventure there. The level of adventure and contact with nature is controlled by the traveler. Adventures range from game drives in wildlife parks and reserves to hot-air balloon rides to walking in the bush to horse-back riding tours to challenging mountain climbs to native canoe safaris to white-water rafting. The level of comfort is just as variable, and it ranges from simple bungalows to extravagant suites with private swimming pools. Luxury camps can cater to even the most discriminating traveler - with five-star panache, but rugged individualists can also find nirvana in earthy and rustic accommodations. Options include hotels, lodges, small camps with chalets or bungalows, houseboats, fixed tented camps and mobile tented safaris.

Africa boasts such a tremendous variety of attractions that everyone can find something fascinating see. In addition to fabulous wildlife, the continent delivers one of the world's largest waterfalls (Victoria Falls, the world's largest inland delta (Okavango Delta), the world's largest intact volcanic caldera (Ngorongoro Crater) and the world's highest mountain that is not part of a range( Mt. Kilimanjaro). Africa is also home to the world's largest animal migration - the Great Serengeti Migration - a movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra.

Adventurers who want to capture life in a back-to-nature setting are always richly rewarded. Most safari locales are almost devoid of human interference, and travelers live according to a natural rhythm of life that has remained basically unchanged since the beginning of time. Safari-goers can choose to view large and spectacular wildlife, unique to this fascinating continent, in its natural surroundings. Animal-watching excursions are best when they include parks and reserves that are not crowded and offer more of a feeling of being in the bush. To truly become an integral part of the safari, it is important to choose reserves that allow travelers to participate in activities such as walking and canoeing. Smaller camps and lodges that are unfenced and that allow wildlife to walk freely about the grounds can also add to an adventurer's "in the bush" mindset.

When on a game-viewing activity, wildlife enthusiasts may see Lion, African Elephant, White Rhinocerosand Giraffe, and there is an amazing array of other large mammals, as well as spectacular birds. In fact, birders from around the world come to Africa for the incomparable viewing opportunities. The finest safaris, however, are not simply those that provide the thrill of seeing wildlife, but those that explore the whole ecosystem and capture the true spirit of the African wilderness. Travel in Africa is an exciting and educational experience. Africa is huge. It is the second largest continent on earth, covering over 20 percent of the planet's land surface. More than three times the size of the United States, it is also larger than Europe, the United States and China combined. No wonder it offers such diversity.

A tapestry of compelling cultures ranging the colorful Masai and Samburu tribes of East Africa to the tiny Bushmen and the nomadic Himba of southern Africa are there to be discovered.

10 Great Reasons to Travel with The Africa Adventure Company

1. We wrote the definitive guide book on safaris to Africa

The President of our company, Mark Nolting, has written the quintessential book on traveling to Africa, "Africa's Top Wildlife Countries" – a testament to our level of expertise.

2. One of the world's top African Travel Specialists

We have been recognized as one of the World's Top African Travel Specialists (Conde Nast Traveler). This is only one of many prestigious magazines that have recommended our high quality safaris.

3. We are committed to sustainable tourism and eco conservation

For over 20 years we have promoted local ground operators and guides, camps and lodges that see the merits of low-impact travel and the survival of habitats. Equally as important are the camps and lodges featured in our programs support local communities, wildlife projects and low utilization of energy resources.

4. Our safari consultants have the highest level of experience

Our travel consultants have an average of over 10 years experience in African travel – a level unmatched in the industry. Many of our staff were born and raised in Africa.

5. Over 70% of our business is repeat or referral

Our repeat/referral rate is the envy of the industry. Exceed people's expectations and they will come back time and time again.

6. Better safaris for less!

As one of the larger "Africa only" tour operators in the world, we command great discounts. In addition, we spend much less on advertising than our competitors, as many people find us through the books we have written. These savings are passed on to you in the form of a higher quality safari for less - good value delivered.

7. Relationships

Relationships built during 20 years in the African safari business. With more than two decades in this business, we have fostered close relationships with safari guides and owners of camps, lodges, and local safari companies. Our "extended family" in Africa will do everything possible to make your travel experience special!

8. More than 75 safari itineraries!

Many safari companies offer a few set itineraries. Take it or leave it. We offer a wide selection of safari options, with trips to 20 countries. Why compromise? Take the trip of your dreams!

9. Our own air department

Our IATA/ARC in-house air department offers great discounted airfare and convenient "one stop shopping". More importantly, book your air travel with us and we will be there to assist you if your flights are changed or cancelled.

10. 24-hour emergency hotline

In case of a travel emergency, we can be reached 24/7 by your family here at home, or by you, while on safari.