After another visit to South Africa in April, Gretchen’s African cookbook collection has once again grown in size. ‘go! Weekend Food’ by Aletta Lintvelt seemed a great choice to bring back for a taste of Africa here in the US. The weekend braai (barbecue) is deeply ingrained into the South African culture. While not totally focused on the tradition of the braai, this book has plenty of recipes that will make you feel like you’re in someone’s back yard in the Western Cape – sun shining, salt air blowing and food that will knock your socks off.

Today, we’re sharing a recipe to go with your braai – roasted red onions. It’s nice to have something that nearly takes care of itself while the very important work of ‘manning’ the braai takes place. Give this a try the next time you have friends around for a weekend meal.

Roasted Red Onions
Serves 6

Olive oil
6 medium red onions
1/2 c balsamic vinegar
5 tbsp soy sauce
5 tbsp sugar
Goat’s cheese (or any other soft cheese, such as blue or mozzarella)

Preheat the oven to 325 F.

Rub the unpeeled onions with olive oil and arrange in an ovenproof dish, just large enough so that they fit in snugly.

Sprinkle over vinegar, soy sauce and sugar. Roast the onions in the oven for 1-1.5 hours until soft.

Just before serving, make two incisions on the top of each onion to form a cross, then stuff with a piece of soft cheese. Return to the oven just until the cheese has melted.

This is nice served with bread to mop up the juices.

Our award-winning safari ‘In Livingstone’s Footsteps – The Final Journey‘ takes travelers to visit important sites from Livingstone’s adventures in Tanzania, including Zanzibar, where he started his last expedition, and Ujiji, where Stanley found Livingstone, stating, “Dr. Livingstone, I presume?” Stops on this unique journey also include Mikumi, which was a stopping point for Sussi & Chuma as they carried the explorer’s body more than 1,000 miles after his death; and Bagamoyo, the final launching point for transporting his body back to England via Zanzibar. We want to have a more in depth visit to each stop of Livingstone’s Final Journey on the Safari Journal Blog. Today, we’ll visit Zanzibar.

Travelers on this safari will kick off their journey by diving in to history upon arrival. Lodging in Stone Town will be at the Africa House – a building that dates back over 150 years. Its original owner was a wealthy slave trader from Oman, who shortly before his death handed the property over to the Sultan of Zanzibar. In 1888 the first English Club of East Africa opened in this former royal residence. The original interiors of the club included a bar, restaurant, library, billiard room and guest rooms. At a later stage a terrace was built, which is the present day Sunset Bar – a popular meeting place among tourists and locals alike.

The Africa House has only 15 rooms. The hotel has the aptly named Sunset Bar (see photo above), Tradewinds Restaurant and The Majlis Shisha lounge as well as a library.  All rooms include air-conditioning, ensuite bathroom, satellite TV, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar which is stocked on request.

On this safari you can discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town with its small alleys, ancient coral stone buildings and many attractions, such as the House of Wonders, The Old Fort and the Palace Museum.  One activity that travelers will enjoy while visiting Zanzibar on our National Geographic-awarded ‘Best Tours’ itinerary is a historical walking tour of Stone Town, including visits to the slave market, and Livingstone House. Livingstone stayed in this house before sailing to the mainland to begin his last expedition in 1866. Other explorers searching for the source of the Nile and more, such as Burton, Speke, Cameron and Stanley, also stayed here while preparing for their own expeditions. You’ll also visit the Anglican Cathedral, where there is a cross made from the tree under which Livingstone’s heart was buried in Zambia.

This is just a taste of our award-winning adventure. Put on your boots and follow ‘In Livingstone’s Footsteps’ to watch history come alive!

We love checking in with our friends at Kenya’s Governor’s Camps to hear what they’ve been seeing, as there is always something interesting to report. This month, we’re bringing news from their Il Moran camp.

Il Moran is the camp for those who want that extra bit of luxury. It is hidden under ancient trees deep in the forest. 10 tents line the winding banks of the Mara River right in the heart of the Masai Mara Game Reserve with superb game viewing right on your doorstep. Our brief report is from Il Moran’s manager, Patrick.

This cheetah is a young male from the MNC and he is about two years old now, he has been seen recently on the Musiara plains and then yesterday he was sighted near the causeway, by 5.30pm he was near the staff football pitch looking at a herd of impala. We are not sure how long he will stay in the area, with large numbers in the Marsh Pride of lions, this cheetah is bound to be forced to move on sooner or later.

The marsh has filled up considerably during the month and recently the water level has gone down, there are numerous water birds here and this particular hammerkop was very obliging.

Elephant now are in larger herds and can be seen throughout the marsh and Riverine woodlands. The marsh pride move back and forth between the

causeway and Lake Nakuru near the Little Governors junction. Yesterday evening three males were seen near little Governors junction.

This lovely herd of Buffalo were seen close to Little Governors Camp.

Want to visit Il Moran or one of the other Governor’s Camps? We’ll find the right camp for you – just give us a call!

Given the proximity to a mild climate, swaying palm trees and the lullaby of the Indian Ocean lapping against the shore, any hotel worth its salt in Durban, South Africa ought to have a signature drink. The Oyster Box delivers a fabulous and fruity cocktail to its visitors! One of our favorite hotels in the Durban area, it has colonial charm, impeccable service, lush tropical gardens and breathtaking seaside setting. Make this drink to transport yourself there for a refreshing visit, or call us to visit in person!

Umhlanga Shling

Blend together equal parts cane rum, mango juice, fresh pineapple juice, a dash of soda and crushed ice. Add a hint of freshly grated ginger and 1 tablespoon of sugar syrup. Garnish with a pineapple rind and enjoy!

Cheers!

Gretchen arrived in Uganda’s Kibale Forest area today, where she will have the opportunity to take a guided forest trek for the chance to see chimpanzees. Chimps aren’t the only attraction in this tropical rain forest in the lower foothills of the Mountains of the Moon. 13 primate species are found in the Kibale Forest, including L’Hoest’s, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked manabey, red colobus and more. Additionally, there are over 300  forest bird species to observe and listen to, including 4 that have not been recorded in any other national park.

We’ll hear more about Gretchen’s adventures in the forest upon her return, but today we’ll profile where she will spend the night. Kyaninga Lodge is set against a stunning backdrop of Lake Kyaninga and the legendary Rwenzori Mountains (Mountains of the Moon). The Lodge is perched atop a hill overlooking the stunning blue crater late, and also enjoys spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Kyaninga Lodge accommodates twenty guests in eight raised log cabins. The cottages are built on platforms and are set apart to ensure privacy and quiet. Access to the cottages from the main lodge is via a raised wooden walkway. Cottages are appointed with twin or double beds, made up with fine linens and feather pillows. There are two family cottages that feature a mezzanine level with extra sleeping space for kids. Each cottage has an indoor sitting area, as well as a private deck for enjoying morning tea or evening sundowners while taking in the incredible views.

Part of the experience of a stay at Kyaninga Lodge is the quality of the meals presented at the restaurant. The menu makes use of local ingredients, most of which are hand picked from Kyaninga Lodge’s own kitchen garden or the neighboring markets. The Lodge also features a swimming pool, which overlooks the lake and provides a perfect spot in which to soak up the views while enjoying a refreshing dip. From the pool, guests can take the steps down to the terraced lawns where they can relax and soak up the peace and tranquility of Lake Kyaninga and the vistas beyond.

For a little more adventure, Lake Kyaninga provides a wonderful backdrop for guided nature walks. The route around the top of the crater takes between two and three hours to complete and offers spectacular views of the lodge. The lakeshore route is slightly longer but takes guests through unspoiled virgin forest teeming with wildlife and exotic plant species. Here you can see bat caves, troupes of black and white colobus, and red tailed monkeys.

We’ll look forward to hearing about Gretchen’s stay at Kyaninga Lodge. If  you would like to visit Kyaninga Lodge and other areas in Uganda to taste some of the adventures on offer, call one of our Safari Specialists to get the planning process underway!

We’ve been focused this year on ensuring that families learn are aware that South Africa is the perfect vacation destination. It offers beaches, mountains, incredible wildlife and more – with the opportunity to make lasting memories with your loved ones. In keeping with that theme, we are very pleased to offer a FREE stay for kids at Shamwari Game Reserve or Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in the Eastern and Western Cape, respectively. This offer is valid from May – July of 2013, and is valid for kids under 12. Rates for kids from ages 12-17 are 50% off during this same time period. Both of these reserves are also malaria-free, so there’s no better time to book your family safari to South Africa! Rates are inclusive of all meals, game drives (age restrictions apply), tea, coffee, water and game drive beverages.

Call one of our safari specialists to book this offer before it expires and make a stay at Shamwari or Sanbona part of a South African family safari that you will remember forever!

Guess where Jenny awoke this morning in South Africa? Singita’s Ebony Lodge! This lodge has something to offer everyone, and is well suited for everyone from honeymooners to families (there are lots of children’s activities on offer – call us for details). We can’t wait to hear about Jenny’s stay, but in the meantime, we’d like to introduce you to the lodge and all of its activities.

As the original Singita lodge, Ebony stands among enormous trees on the banks of the Sand River in the heart of South Africa’s ‘big cat country.’ A blend of European heritage and African boldness welcomes visitors with the down-to-earth warmth of a much-loved family home. Spacious interiors are styled with a varied mix of rich colors, and inviting textures and layers, making Singita Ebony Lodge an idyllic retreat.

The lodge comprises just 12 secluded suites, each of which are the epitome of elegant comfort, and two of which are perfectly suited to accommodate families. En-suite bathrooms, an indoor-outdoor shower, private heated plunge pools, and spacious game viewing decks complete the luxurious accommodation.

Singita offers daily game drives with professional guides and trackers. Drives provide the perfect opportunity to get up close to Africa’s incredible animals, while spot lit nighttime drives reveal the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa. Game drives are all conducted in state-of-the-art Land Rovers, each accommodating a maximum of six guests. During a stay at Singita Sabi Sand, you are likely to spot a great variety of wildlife including leopard, lion, rhino, large herds of buffalo, elephant, reedbuck, hyena, hippopotamus, nyala, cheetah, wild dogs and many species of birds.

Singita also offers walking safaris which are an incredible way to experience the bush up

close and personal. An expert guide and tracker will accompany you as you track animals on foot through the wilderness and explore the magnificent plants and landscapes around you.

For the adventurous guest, a mountain bike ride through the reserve just can’t be beat. Your guide and tracker will accompany you as you explore the vast beauty of this rugged landscape. Mountain bikes and helmets are provided.

Singita offers fishing in their reserve as well. Water is a source of life and beauty, and no place is this more apparent than in the remote tranquility of the African bush. Fishing in one of the picturesque dams found on the reserve is the ideal way to experience this wonder firsthand. Drop in a lure and see what bounty the day will bring, while your guide and tracker show you how the locals catch fish using plants found in the area.

Stargazing safaris and archery lessons are on tap at Singita, as well as visits to the local communities. If you like to enjoy a glass of wine with your meals, Singita has you covered. Singita’s wine cellars are home to some of the most sought-after private reserves and vintage wines the country has to offer. Singita also has a spa and gym for guests.

You won’t want for anything when visiting Singita’s beautiful Ebony Lodge! Stay tuned for Jenny’s adventures in South Africa!

Kent Redding, President of Africa Adventure Consultants and a three-year board member of AAC sister charity AfricAid, a nonprofit organization that supports girls’ education in Africa, has been named AfricAid’s Board President.

As an AfricAid board member, Redding has been a steadfast supporter of AfricAid and girls’ empowerment in East Africa.  Africa Adventure Consultants has donated a safari to Tanzania at AfricAid’s annual gala, Art & Soul, which is held in October each year to support AfricAid’s flagship program, The Kisa Project, that funds school scholarships and leadership training to some of Africa’s brightest young women.

“All of us at AfricAid believe that girls who are educated and empowered can transform their own lives and positively impact their communities in countless ways,” said Redding, who lived and worked in Tanzania for several years. “I look forward to helping AfricAid create ties between Americans and Tanzanians and expand Kisa and other great AfricAid programs in Tanzania.”

“We are very pleased to have Kent Redding as our Board President,” said AfricAid Executive Director Elizabeth Abshire. “Kent’s support as a board member has helped AfricAid to grow and thrive and become the organization that it is today.  We’re thrilled to be able to benefit from his invaluable insight as AfricAid continues to expand its work in East Africa.”

AfricAid’s origins date back to 1996 when its founder, Ashley Shuyler, traveled to Tanzania with her family at the age of 11. Struck by the poverty she saw there, particularly among children her own age, she became determined to do something to help. From the fact that 95 percent of girls in Tanzania are not able to complete a high school education – mostly because they cannot afford the school fees – she realized that education was the key to uplifting individuals and entire communities. In 2001, Ashley formed AfricAid, with the mission of supporting girls’ education in Africa in order to provide young women with the opportunity to transform their own lives and the futures of their communities. Since its inception, AfricAid has raised nearly $1.400,000 in its mission to support girls’ education in Africa.

AfricAid provides funding for scholarships, school building projects, leadership training, vocational and teacher training, school supplies, school lunch programs, and works in conjunction with the local initiatives of Tanzanians and other African leaders committed to education.

Safari Specialist Jenny is currently in South Africa visiting camps and enjoying the wildlife in the reserves around Kruger National Park. Tonight, she’ll be staying at the lovely Tanda Tula camp in the Timbavati Reserve. The camp has beautiful and comfortable tents scattered around an idyllic setting. The food is absolutely wonderful, and the wildlife is spectacular! We checked in to see what’s been happening lately and received this wonderful report from Dale, the camp’s manager. We’ll share Jenny’s stories of her visit upon her return.

It’s been an exciting few days in our area of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.

I managed to get a wonderful sequence of shots last week of leopard Rockfig Junior and her sub-adult cub having a rough and tumble in the late afternoon. These big five animals can be very playful at times, providing much entertainment to visitors of our safari camp. The young male cub is now larger than his mother and should be self sufficient very soon and it was fascinating to watch the interaction between mother and son.

Her tolerance of him grows shorter by the day, and after an initial friendly greeting tempers started to flair as he started throwing his superior weight around. Still, she put him in his place very quickly with a swift paw to the head! He immediately took on a very subdued approach and as Mom calmed down he slowly tried to cozy on up to her again.

I am sure she will be coming into estrus again very soon and will be covered by the large territorial male in the area. So time is ticking on the young male’s presence in his mother’s territory, as he will soon have to go out and fend for himself completely alone.

Interesting times await and we will keep you up to date on his progress.

If you’d like to visit this gorgeous camp, give us a call. We have lots of super specials on offer to combine to make the perfect South African safari!

During Gretchen’s visit to South Africa last month, she had the opportunity to stay at a country house/bed and breakfast outside of Howick (about 1.5 hours from Durban in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands) in the beautiful Karkloof Valley. While it’s unlikely that many of our safari travelers would be stopping for a night in this area, we’d certainly recommend Thistledown Country House for those that did. It’s a charming property and the food is out of this world! Owner Norma was kind enough to share the following recipe for drop scones/muffins that we enjoyed as part of a sumptuous breakfast. The day we had them, they were savory and bursting with fresh corn.

Thistledown Muffins

2 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
salt
250 ml sour cream
2 eggs
2 – 3 TBS sugar

Mix the egg, sour cream and sugar together then add the sifted dry
ingredients. A little milk can be added if the mixture is too dry. Bake in
a muffin tin at 180 until golden – about 15 – 20 minutes. Makes 12 medium
size muffins.

To make savory muffins, leave the sugar out and add your alternative ingredient(s) of choice.  The corn muffins added the following:

1/2 cup whole corn
1/2 cheddar cheese
Chopped chives
Garlic/chili seasoning and pepper