If you consider yourself of Christian descent, interested in history and culture, you have to make a personal pilgrimage to Ethiopia. I have always thought of myself as being well travelled within Africa and was delighted when Ethiopia astounded me. Like phoenix from the ashes this country is about to soar and it may leave some of its current charms in its wake, in some ways this is good but selfishly I would wish it not to change. A closed door policy has for so long kept Ethiopia’s secrets from the world and it now teeters on the brink of fame, in danger of losing some naivety and gathering itself to gain much credibility.
You may possibly have a distorted image of the country, maybe you believe it to be war-torn and ravaged by famine? How delighted you will be (once you have exited Addis Ababa) with this striking, picturesque and productive country. I found the population to be the most dedicated and hard working I have seen in Africa. A huge proportion of the land is lovingly tended, the farmers persevering and diligent. I was especially pleased by the fact that the domestic animals (mostly horses and donkeys were very well cared for and even in the dry season, majority of them boasted glossy coats and round rumps.
More gentle and pious people you will not find, they humbly preserve one of the oldest forms of Christianity and intrinsically know their own history. I felt instantly it at home with a culture whose beliefs are close to my own. Especially on the Historic circuit, here was no worry about causing offence as you sometimes have when travelling in a country where you don’t know the customs. Of course there are some parts of the country which are perhaps more challenging with respect to etiquette. The tribes of the southern Omo Valley are fascinating for many reasons, above all for their total disregard of western comforts we deem necessary.
At some time of your life you too will have to make that Pilgrimage to Ethiopia. May I suggest that it is sooner rather than later…
Have a look at the fabulous set departure trip going out in October http://www.steppestravel.co.uk/journey-ideas-page1110.aspx

Labels: Ethiopia

Well, we are now heading into March and at the end of the month the rains should be starting in the Serengeti and generally in East Africa. This is a time of rejuvenation and change, a bit of respite for the animals after a hard dry season (interesting if you have been watching Nature's Great Events on BBC1). The Wildebeest and Zebra calves should be old enough to move on with the herds and they will now start heading north slowly. In April and May the migration will be progressing further north to the central Serengeti and by the end of the rains in June they will be milling around the central core near Seronera. Then in August they head even further north and then if all goes to plan they will arrive at the Mara River in the far north of the Serengeti and in the Masai Mara by September. Did you know that part of the Mara River flows through the Serengeti and you can still see river crossings in Tanzania? The Kogatende area of the Serengeti will host a couple of camps this year but don't despair, you still won't find the throngs of people as you would in the Mara. It will be your little part of paradise. I highly recommend it; afterwards why not add on a bit of beach in Zanzibar or on the mainland coast or the Quirimbas in northern Mozambique?

Labels: Wildebeest Migration

Happy New Year! I hope that 2009 brings with it the revitalisation of travel. Goodness knows that we will all need a little respite this year! I have just returned from Tanzania. I was immensely fortunate to visit Chada camp in the Katavi National Park and the famous Greystoke camp in Mahale mountains amongst other places. However it was these remote and beautiful destinations that most took my breath away.
Greystoke is a world away, set on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the deepest lake in Africa where the water is as clear as gin. From Greystoke you are able to visit the oldest research group of chimpanzees - an amaizing experience which I liken to that of visiting the gorillas in nearby Uganda.
Chada Katavi offers you unrivaled space and diversity of animals. In addition to this you can witness the aestivating crocodiles and an endless hippo population.

Christmas availability in Mauritius and Seychelles!
Do you need to feel the heat of the sun on your back? I can still get you to Mauritius for Christmas. Contact me on 01285650011 or illona@steppestravel.co.uk for more information and prices.

Labels: Do you want a holiday in the sun?

I have just bought my flights for my next trip to Tanzania. I will be travelling through the Selous, Katavi National Park, Mahale National Park and the Serengeti. I can't wait to tell you all about it.

Labels: Illona's next trip to Africa

Whilst in Tanzania in July I visited a great little lodge called The Tides. It is situated near the town of Pangani and has the best beach I have seen on the Tanzanian mainland coast. The Tides is owner run, small and intimate. You can walk directly from your spacious cottage onto the fine white sand of the Indian Ocean. I am going to go back soon with friends and family. Please do contact me on 01285650011 to hear more about this fantastic destination.

Labels: Illona at The Tides Lodge in Tanzania