While you have many choices for safaris and the accommodations you enjoy during that time, Kruger National Park consistently delivers in both safari and lodging quality. Below are three of Kruger’s best safari lodges – perfect for discerning travelers that enjoy rustic luxury.

Tinga Safari Lodge

The Tinga Safari Lodge is really two lodges in one, though both provide an equally intimate and memorable experience. Legends Lodge is a colonial style, classic lodge on the banks of the lush Sable River. A heavy wooden deck winds around an enormous Jackalberry tree, which is reportedly 200 years old. The library is packed with African literature, and the on-site wine cellar provides guests with the premier South African and international wines. The Legends Lodge provides a luxurious backdrop for game viewing, and there are very few places on the property that don't feature stunning panoramic views of the surroundings and their resident wildlife.

The Narina Lodge remains much truer to its natural surroundings. The lodge itself is unobtrusive and organic against the landscape. Unlike Legends, the main deck here rests on stilts overlooking the Sable River, and individual suites are connected by an elevated wooden walkway. Relax for an afternoon of bird watching (nearby trees attract everything from broadbilled rollers to trumpeter hornbills) with a glass of wine from the on-site cellar, or read a book between game drives in the shade of the large deck.

Imbali Safari Lodge

The Imbali Safari Lodge offers another perspective on the beautiful landscape of Kruger National Park. The Imbali Lodge affords a true five-star experience, with luxurious suites that provide intimate opportunities to observe nearby wildlife while enjoying all of the standard amenities and little extras that you will find here. Enjoy a soak in your private Jacuzzi as you overlook the river and savannah at sunset, or take in the sounds and stillness of your surroundings at night. During the day, enjoy the high diversity of the wildlife in the Imbali concession. Other unique opportunities here include dinner in the bush and the “nomadic” spa experience.

Jock Safari Lodge

The Jock Safari Lodge is a third luxury lodge within the boundaries of Kruger National Park. The atmosphere combines the area’s historic past with the unique style of two groups that are indigenous to the area, the Zulu and the Shangaan. While you are here, be sure to take advantage of the many unique opportunities offered, including a bush walk to some of the oldest Bushmen rock art in Africa, which dates back approximately 3,000 years. Jock provides a very intimate and personalized experience, as there are just three suites at the lodge. Each is equipped with its own chef, waitress, and ranger to ensure that your experience is completely unique.

Beautiful Beaches

Beaches are a popular family destination in many locations, and the Western Cape has its fair share. Cape Town has white sandy beaches on both the Atlantic and Indian Ocean sides, and from private and secluded coves to long, seemingly endless stretches of sand, all of the beaches in Cape Town are picturesque, with the mountains serving as the backdrop. You can explore tide pools and work on your tan.

Cape Point Nature Reserve

A visit to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without traveling to Africa’s southern tip, the Cape Point, or the Cape of Good Hope. Though the Cape of Good Hope isn’t Africa’s southernmost point (that honor belongs to Cape Agulhas), it is historically significant. The Cape of Good Hope represents a major milestone in global exploration, when the Portuguese rounded the cape in 1488, thus helping to establish a trade route to the Far East. Today, the Cape also represents a major milestone in many international, offshore yacht races. The reserve itself has many trails for hiking in this beautiful, scenic area, and the breathtaking views from the Cape itself are a must-see before leaving Cape Town.

Simon’s Town Penguins

If you’re interested in seeing some wildlife, a fishing village and naval port called Simon’s Town has a unique alternative to the giraffes, zebras, and buffalo that you are accustomed to on safari. The destination is Boulder’s Beach, where a sizeable population of African Penguins has taken up residence, using the beach to live and mate. The beach is a safe place for them, since this part of the coast is lacking in major predators. Small fish make their homes in the bay, and the penguin population has grown tremendously since 1985 thanks to the abundant food supply. The penguins are located in a protected area, which is maintained by the Table Mountain National Park.

Two Oceans Aquarium

Two Oceans Aquarium is a great way to view the abundance of marine life that can be found in the surrounding, sometimes chilly, waters of South Africa. The diversity of wildlife found here is fantastic – from the tiny Knysna seahorses to massive sharks, there is awe-inspiring marine life all around. The kelp forest exhibit is one of only three living kelp forest displays in the world. Giant spider crabs and a touch pool, where you can touch some friendly creatures from the deep, round out the trip.

There are many formal definitions used to try and describe ecotourism. According to the Quebec Declaration on Ecotourism, the framework for the United Nations’ International Year of Ecotourism, activities that are considered ecotourism share the following attributes:

1. actively contributes to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage in the area;
2. uses input from local and indigenous communities in planning, operations, and development while contributing to their wellbeing;
3. interprets the natural and cultural heritage of the area to visitors and;
4. lends itself better to independent travelers and small groups.

The UN recognizes that ecotourism is both a market segment and a set of principles.
The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) further defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” This definition identifies the primary difference between nature tourism and ecotourism – ecotourism requires the participation of local people, which enables them to benefit from the proceeds. Additionally, and further expanding on the ideas set forth by the Quebec Declaration, TIES considers ecotourism to be any activity that minimizes the impact of tourism, provides a positive experience for both visitors and hosts, provides financial benefits for conservation and empowerment for local people, and raises awareness about the host countries’ political, environmental, and social climate.
Many people think that ecotourism is nature tourism, with the “eco-“ root coming from words or principles like ecosystem or ecology. Ecotourism’s roots do lie within nature tourism, but its meaning has expanded to include much more. Ecotourism is not simply “responsible tourism,” either. Responsible tourism could mean anything from staying at resorts with energy-efficient appliances to packing out your trash after a camping trip, and “responsible tourism” could be applied to virtually any aspect of the tourism industry. Perhaps the best definition of what ecotourism truly is is a simple, short acronym used by the East African tour operator Eco-Resorts. Eco- stands for “Environmentally and Community Oriented.”
Tourism itself is the biggest sector of business in the world economy, responsible for over 230 million jobs and 10% of the gross domestic product (GDP) worldwide. For 83% of developing countries, tourism is the principle foreign exchange earner, and it is the top earner for 1/3 of the world’s poorest nations.
With the growing momentum of the green movement, ecotourism and responsible travel may prove to be a huge income generator, especially for developing countries. Ecotourism is growing increasingly more popular and trendy, but this newfound popularity is a cause for concern for many people, from the communities intended to benefit from ecotourism to operators and even major international organizations like the UN.

Why Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is everywhere lately, but have you ever stopped to think about why it is important? Simply put, ecotourism is important for two reasons. It creates effective economic incentives for the conservation of both biological and cultural diversity and heritage while at the same time empowering communities to fight poverty with economic development and to work toward sustainable development locally, regionally, and nationally.

Myths About Ecotourism

One of the common misconceptions about ecotourism is shared by people on both sides of the spectrum – people that assume ecotourism means “roughing” it and living out of a backpack, and can’t imagine vacationing without all the amenities. Then there are the budget travelers, who have gotten the impression that the word “ecotourism” means high prices and expensive extras. Fortunately, neither camp is right – or wrong! Ecotourism doesn’t mean having to sacrifice quality or luxury. Many of the accommodations you will encounter have very high standards of quality - ecotourism lodges in developing countries can be as nice or nicer than the nicest “regular” hotels in the area – and these places remain aware of your needs while still bringing nature and culture within your reach, which is the entire point of the trip.
This doesn’t mean that all ecotourism experiences have to be expensive (or even luxurious, if you prefer a more rustic experience). Accommodations and other services are available for a wide variety of budgets, especially if you are in a developing country. In fact, some of the most inexpensive options may end up giving you the best exposure to the natural and cultural heritage of the area.
Ecotourism isn’t just for backpackers, thrill-seekers, the wealthy, or the young. Families, the disabled, and people of all ages can find ecotourism vacations and experiences that fit within their interests, budget, and time.

Ecotourism in Africa

What does ecotourism mean for Africa? Though Africa’s development is slow, the continent is the global leader in ecotourism. The 2002 Quebec Conference convened as part of the United Nations’ “International Year of Ecotourism” (IYE). The aims of the conference were to increase awareness of ecotourism within the public and to promote the best practices in every aspect, from planning, regulating, developing, and monitoring ecotourism practices, all with the help of real-life experiences from around the world.
Earlier in the year in Nairobi, Kenya, Africa’s ecotourism industry, from ministers to average community members, convened to discuss a direction for ecotourism on the continent. More than 100 African villages were represented – far more people attended the African conference in Nairobi than any other IYE regional conference held during the same time. Africa has been a “trailblazer” for ecotourism, which certainly has its drawbacks. The continent is learning from its mistakes, and innovative “ecoventures” can now be found all over the continent, a testament to the enduring progress that has been made. Though tourism is generally thought to be a careless industry with no regard for sensitive cultures and natural environments, ecotourism is a hope-filled endeavor for Africa.
In the 1980s, many of Africa’s states were facing a number of social and environmental issues, like the extinction of such rare megafauna as the black rhinoceros. The fragility of Africa’s natural ecosystems started to become apparent, and many nations moved people off of their lands to build national parks and game reserves. For many people, like the Maasai tribes of Tanzania and Kenya, this move was in direct conflict with their traditional lifestyles, resulting in heightened conflicts over land. Short-sighted, myopic attempts at conservation as a means to improve tourism were met with illegal poaching and hunting of the wildlife within the parks, as the people that had once lived on the land could no longer graze their own animals alongside the wildlife.
In order to uphold the conservation movement throughout Africa, something had to be done. Those that were more far-sighted recognized that local and indigenous people were not being given a stake in conservation and other tourism efforts, and that if they were able to participate in this process in some way and benefit from the revenue it generated, they would place a higher value on the wildlife in the parks and reserves and want to keep it alive. It was through this thought process that the African people were brought into the tourism industry.
What was once a maneuver to aid conservation has now become an integral part of the African experience; so much of the enjoyment we derive from our visit has to do with the strong impressions of Africa’s people and its varying cultures that we are left with, and our tourism is no longer overwhelmingly for our benefit alone. 30% of international tourists make developing countries their destinations of choice, and long-haul travel is one of the fastest growing sectors in the tourism industry. There is so much potential for people to achieve some good during their travels, especially on ecotourism vacations. In the year 2000, British tourists spent three billion pounds (or nearly five billion USD) on travel in developing countries, which is almost comparable to the amount that the British government gave in aid in the same year.
Is ecotourism the way forward for Africa’s economic development? While on the ground it seems as though the answer is a resounding yes, there is some debate over local versus Western involvement in new and existing ecotourism projects. To meet the established definitions of ecotourism, the local community must be involved in the decision-making processes involved with a project as well as benefiting financially from it. Unfortunately, it is still too early for Africa’s ecotourism industry to be fully autonomous – reliance on Western partners for financial backing and as a means to bridge the gap between a project and its intended Western market. This can be a trying partnership, and high levels of commitment and determination are needed on both sides if a project is to be a success.
There is also the question of which aspects of a culture should be open to tourism. Authenticity is key for successful ecotourism, but communities can also be vulnerable to outside influences that are in conflict with their core beliefs. This issue is somewhat self-regulating, and many cultures, particularly indigenous groups, will shield their most sacred events and traditions from the public as a means of preservation.
Scale is another important issue. It could be possible that ecotourism will fail because of its own success – projects must remain small and monitored, lest local traditions become too diluted and natural environments become damaged. Ecotourism can only exist in a delicate balance, and it is entirely possible for new projects, even those with good intentions, to have negative consequences on communities and environments. Ecotourism can attract people to sensitive areas. Tanzania’s Hadzabe people are just one example. While exposure to tourists generated revenue for the Hadzabe, it has been too much for their traditional way of life to withstand, and the Hadzabe now face problems like alcoholism and begging, which were non-existent prior to overexposure to tourists. They are the victims of one of Africa’s biggest problems, which runs rampant through many aspects of day-to-day life in many places. While revenue is being generated, there is no guarantee that this money will reach the community. Furthermore, many of the smaller communities found in a country lack the resiliency of some of the more prominent groups; the Hadzabe cannot readily assimilate into mainstream Tanzanian society like many members of the Maasai tribe.
The issues with the Hadzabe illustrate just one of the many reasons that it is so important for local communities to be a part of the ecotourism process every step of the way. Not only can they control their participation when things are going well, but if community leaders start to notice negative impacts of their way of life, it is vital that there are lines of communication open so that the community can voice their concerns. Tour operators and the like must also be responsible by respecting the wishes of communities that are fragile and have already been subject to or are on the verge of overexposure.
Even the United Nations recognizes the potentially devastating consequences of poorly managed ecotourism endeavors. Furthermore, because of its small scale, ecotourism cannot be the sole mechanism to eliminate poverty, but it can greatly improve quality of life while at the same time supporting the conservation of natural environments if activities are well managed and proceeds reach the right people. Tourists are supportive of ecotourism endeavors as well – some polls show as many as 85% of tourists would prefer doing no damage to the environment, while 71% believe tourism should benefit local communities.

Ecotourism, or Just “Greenwashing?”

“Greenwashing” isn’t a term used only in the ecotourism industry, but as ecotourism becomes more popular, greenwashing will continue to be a problem. Greenwashing occurs when a company spins their products and services, touting them as environmentally friendly when they may not be, or over-blowing pre-existing environmentally friendly practices, like using energy-efficient light bulbs in a hotel but touting each and every appliance as being energy-efficient. Many ecotourism operators have gotten away with greenwashing their image because there is no rating system, but many in the industry are hoping that will change. The Ecotourism Society of Kenya (ESOK) is just one organization working to develop a set of criteria to rank ecotourism facilities and operators, at least locally. The government of South Africa was also the first to launch guidelines for responsible tourism and has been a leader in that regard.
Ratings will be almost a necessity to keep up Africa’s current rate of success. Until a reliable rating system is in place, it is the responsibility of the traveler to check for “greenwashing,” Get off on the right start by using a website that uses its own rating system. GreenStop (www.greenstop.net) ranks accommodations and tours using its own system according to ecofriendliness. Responsibletravel.com is a members-only site, where tour operators and lodging must have met the site’s strict membership guidelines. TIES, which was mentioned previously, also offers a good starting point for researching your trip to Africa. Above all, do your research, and don’t underestimate the importance of asking questions yourself to be sure that accommodations and activities will be just what you’re looking for.

Assessing Your Needs

Not all disabled or special needs travelers have the same needs, and it is important to be mindful of your unique situation as you research safari holidays, travel, and accommodation. Travelers with limited mobility will not have the same requirements as people that are vision or hearing impaired. Many tour operators, like Endeavor Safaris, offer a variety of trips to multiple locations and of varying duration for people with a variety of special needs, and your trip can be tailor-made for you, even down to a private departure.

For travelers with limited mobility and similar disabilities, there are an increasing number of safari operators to meet your needs, whether you require the use of a cane, walker, manual wheelchair, or are permanently confined to a power chair. Endeavor Safaris is a leader in this regard, offering a number of safaris through Botswana, South Africa, and elsewhere. When planning your trip, it is essential that you ensure you can be accommodated every step of the way. The vehicles used to transport you to the site and during the course of the safari should be accessible to you. Many operators offer safari vehicles fitted with hydraulic lifts, which are useful for people with a variety of mobility issues, not just wheelchairs. Additionally, many operators have vehicles with a wheelchair locking system that allows travelers to remain in their chair or transfer out of it. Some operators, like Access2Africa Safaris, even offer a personal caretaker for those travelers that have more specific medical needs, and can even provide power wheelchairs and commodes should the need arise.

For those travelers with extremely limited mobility, it is important to assess your needs concerning hygiene and sitting/sleeping. Most lodging in Africa will not have wheelchair accessible bathrooms, so to make the most of your trip you will have to be somewhat flexible. Bathing is often the biggest adjustment for any Western traveler, and facilities will likely be primitive on safari, if not completely non-existent. Bed or bucket baths may be the only thing available, so you may feel more comfortable traveling with someone that can assist you. Travelers with limited mobility may also have issues with pressure wounds, so you will need to take into consideration the types of accommodations available and plan accordingly if you need cushions or inflatable mattresses.

Since traditional safaris are very much visually oriented, visually impaired travelers have a unique set of needs. Operators that cater to the visually impaired try to use a traveler’s other senses to recreate aspects of the experience that they may otherwise miss, and these safaris are often quite different from a standard safari. Operators attempt to interpret the experience in the most accurate way possible by using descriptive, detailed explanations to paint a picture of the traveler’s surroundings, especially when it comes to wildlife sightings. There are often opportunities on safari to exit the vehicle, and in places where it is safe to do so, travelers can exit the vehicle to touch and smell things to enhance their experience. In fact, visually impaired travelers may get a more holistic experience than those travelers on that rely solely on vision.

It is important to mention the use of guide dogs. Regulations put in place in order to prevent the spread of disease between animals (and people) prohibit bringing outside animals into national parks, including guide dogs. They pose the potential danger of attracting predators, and some people are also opposed to putting an animal through a long international flight. However, if visually impaired travelers listen to the guide and have human assistance, they are at no greater risk on safari than any other time.

Deaf or otherwise hearing impaired travelers also have special needs to consider. While it is possible for tour operators to help you arrange for a sign language interpreter, this can be a costly option since this is a service that may not be readily available. Since many travelers go on safari with family or friends anyway, a family member or friend that is traveling with you that can act as an interpreter may be the most economical option.

Special accommodations can even be made for people with other needs, like those needing the use of an oxygen tank, or even people currently undergoing kidney dialysis. Endeavor Safaris can easily facilitate people requiring the use of oxygen tanks, and they offer a unique safari opportunity for those travelers on dialysis – their tours are centered around dialysis centers throughout South Africa, the quality of which should be approximately comparable to the care you are used to receiving at home.

For many people, disabled or otherwise, having some sort of in-country assistance is absolutely essential, whether you are traveling alone or your disability necessitates traveling with friends or family members. It can be very beneficial to have someone local to help with in-country travel arrangements and other bureaucratic issues and, if you are in a place where English or your primary language is not widely spoken, your local guide can serve as a translator. You will have to coordinate this aspect of your trip in advance, and there can be some drawbacks, namely that you may not know much about your guide. It is important to communicate as much as possible prior to your trip so you know what to expect from your guide. On the other hand, a tour operator may be willing to help coordinate a guide for you – these guides are generally reliable and have worked in this capacity before. Hiring a guide can also be cheap, given the strength of western currencies versus African currencies and the standard of living in the country(s) you will be visiting.

Additionally, you will need to make sure that everyone you will be working with throughout your trip, from airlines to tour operators, is aware of your specific needs. This can be especially true for people with impaired mobility, and is very important on international flights given their duration. You will also want to be sure to bring any equipment that you will need with you, including tools for wheelchairs and the proper supplies for people using catheters, especially since access to hospitals and clinics and the quality of care abroad is often not at the same standard you may be used to at home. Medications should be labeled with your name and relevant information, and it may be a good idea to bring copies of your prescription, just in case. Be sure to pack essentials in your carry on luggage in the event that your checked bag(s) is lost.

As you begin planning your trip, assess your personal health needs, and consider some of the common concerns shared by disabled travelers abroad when you begin investigating the specifics, including lack of wheelchair accessible airport transfers, vehicles, and lodging. Other concerns include a lack of professional staff equipped to deal with the unique needs of disabled people and a lack of information concerning accessibility in certain places of interest.

The Safari Experience

Now that you know what to expect as a disabled traveler on safari, what is a safari actually like? Regardless of the cost of your safari holiday or the type of traveler you are, most safaris follow a similar format to maximize on your experience.

For most travelers, the safari will begin on the first full day since, in many cases, the first day of your travels within a country will be dedicated to getting to the park or reserve. There may also be a briefing on what to expect during the days ahead, and most travelers will appreciate a night to recover from all the traveling. Food and accommodations will depend on what you have arranged for your trip, but travelers staying at a lodge operated by a park or traveling with a safari operator will generally be provided with three meals a day. An important thing to remember is that a lodge or camp may effectively have a “curfew,” or a time by which travelers must be in their respective lodgings. There are a few reasons for this. Many lodges operate off of a generator, which can be expensive and also goes against the “green” experience that many people prefer. If “lights out” is at 10pm, you will need to be inside and have the majority of your nighttime routine completed – this is especially important for travelers with disabilities that may require a little more time. Additionally, this curfew serves as a safety measure, since animals in the park have free range, and some animals may be more active at night. At Mikumi National Park in Tanzania, visitors are warned about lions that may potentially sleep on the porches of the cabins.

Days on safari can start very early, though your individual itinerary may vary based on your wants and needs. Many safaris will do a morning game drive between 6 and 6:30 am local time – this is a time at which wildlife is very active, and it is a good time to be out before temperatures rise. Game drives can last for a few hours but, again, your experience may vary based on your needs. Breakfast is generally served before the morning game drive, and lunch will be served afterward. A second game drive generally takes place in the afternoon and lasts until sunset – many parks have a rule that requires those out on game drives to return before sundown. By timing the game drives this way, you generally avoid being out during peak temperatures.

The above information assumes that you will be doing your safari in one park; many operators offer safaris that will take you to multiple parks. In this case, you may participate in a morning game drive followed by a meal at one park, then spend the afternoon traveling to another park (or another area, if the park is exceptionally large). Sometimes, it may be possible to do a game drive on the way to your next destination.

Local and International Support for Disabled Travelers

For any traveler, it is important to know where you stand in any foreign country that you visit. As a visitor, it is expected that you will adhere to culturally accepted standards of behavior – this includes adhering to all laws in a given country. It is important to remember that should you need outside help, your country’s embassy or consulate is generally your only lifeline and, in certain situations, that may not be able (or will not, in some situations) to help you. Before you travel, make sure to find out the information for your country’s embassy or consulate, and record it in several locations. Additionally, keep some copies of your passport on hand in the event that it is lost. This can be used in a pinch at ForEx bureaus, and it will help you get an emergency passport from your embassy or consulate. It is also a good idea to photocopy any boarding passes prior to your trip.

The above should not discourage you, but it is important to recognize that there is simply very little support for foreign tourists, disabled or otherwise, in developing countries. Support is slightly better in South Africa, but not by much; there is a National Information and Safety Line that can be reached at 083 123 2345, but most countries lack even this basic service. One of the best ways you can protect yourself abroad is to do your research – look for operators with good reputations and a strong online presence. Additionally, you can also look for safari companies that operate out of the United States or your home country. These companies can help you communicate with embassies and consulates in country, and often have a link back to your home country in case of emergency. In-country operators may also offer repatriation to your home country. These are all services that you need to research heavily and find out about for yourself – don’t rely on second-hand information. Other organizations may be available to help travelers abroad, but this may require heavy location-specific research before you depart.
Transitions Abroad (http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/living/resources/healthandsafety.shtml) is a good place to start – this page lists a variety of travel health and safety tips, including government agencies and other bodies that may be able to assist you in-country or remotely.

Choosing the Safari Lodge

Choosing your safari lodge can be one of the most important aspects of your trip abroad – travelers will obviously have different desires and expectations, and it is important to find something that caters to the type of accommodations you want while still being accessible.

Safari accommodations vary greatly – you can stay in a cabin or bungalow-type building at the safari lodge, or you can stay in a tent at a proper camp. High end safaris offer “fly camping,” where you fly from campsite to campsite between game drives, and the camping facilities are often nicer than you may find in some safari lodges with brick-and- mortar accommodations. While you may prefer a more rustic experience, as a disabled traveler it is important to recognize the limitations that certain forms of accommodation may offer. Accessibility will be most travelers’ number one priority – wheel chair maneuverability and bed height are two things that you will want to inquire about while you plan your trip, especially if there is limited online information about accessibility at a given lodge or camp.

Many camps will run a generator at least part of the time – this is especially important for people using power chairs or other electronic medical equipment. You will be able to use the power from the generator to charge batteries, but remember to bring a plug and/or voltage adaptor that is compatible with whatever equipment you will be charging. This is something you will likely be bringing with you anyway if you plan to use a camera, so check compatibility with all electronics. A good guide to adaptors specifically for disabled travelers for use in international outlets can be found here: http://www.miusa.org/ncde/tipsheets/powerchairs.

Toilet and bathing facilities may be another issue for disabled travelers. This was briefly addressed in the “Assessing Your Needs” section, and while it may not seem like that big of a deal, for some travelers the bathroom facilities could make or break your experience. If you choose to camp, bathing options will be primitive – most likely a bucket shower and a chemical toilet. While primitive, these facilities should be readily available in your tent, so you won’t have to go outside at night. Safari lodges may have more traditional amenities, including a flush toilet (or composting toilet) and an overhead shower, though the availability of hot water may be questionable. Again, if you are looking for a certain kind of facility, be sure to inquire prior to departure to insure that your needs will be met.

Equipment Tips

The equipment and supplies required by a disabled traveler will vary from person to person, and the section on assessing your needs can help you identify some items you may require as a traveler that you may not have otherwise considered. While bringing equipment you are familiar and comfortable with is always the best option, if you are going to rely on equipment provided by your lodge or other provider in-country, be sure to personally check what equipment will be available for you to use – don’t just rely on information available online.

Having said that, there are some products that may be helpful to you as a disabled traveler abroad. One good thing for travelers, disabled or otherwise, is a travel pouch. The PUP pouch is designed for disabled travelers and has large, easily accessible zippered compartments for holding your passport, currency, and other documents. The PUP is available at http://www.lovemypup.com. Another item that may be useful in your travels is a portable handle to help you sit and stand. You will want to inquire about your accommodations to see if the wall surfaces will be suitable to affix a handle. Check out a variety of portable handles at http://www.grabitonline.com.

For those that will not have access to a wheelchair at their destination but may require one or want one that is more portable than the chair they use at home, there are portable wheelchairs available. A good choice for many travelers is a “wheelchair in a bag.” While these chairs may have a lower weight capacity (under 250 pounds), they are often much more portable than your every day chair, weighing less than 18 pounds. The chair can be transported in a bag over your shoulder, or the shoulder of someone you’re traveling with. Check out http://www.medicalforyou.com for some portable chair options.

Portable chairs for showering and using the bathroom are also a worthwhile investment. Bathroom facilities are often very primitive, especially on safari, and it may be difficult for you to use the facilities “as is.” Portable chairs designed for use in the shower and the bathroom will make your experience infinitely more comfortable. There are a variety of styles available, so you should shop around to find a chair that will meet your needs. Check out http://www.viennamedical.com to get started.

Resources

Below is a list of some of the most prominent Internet resources on African travel and safaris for disabled people.

Able Travel. http://www.able-travel.com/index.php
Able travel is a site intended “to make adventure travel…easier for people with disabilities, including seniors and those with temporary limited mobility.” The site offers country-specific resources, including resources for Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia. Able Travel also offers a variety of travel tips for disabled travelers, as well as first-hand accounts of safari holidays by disabled travelers – these can be a great resource for finding handicap-accessible locations that it may not be possible to find elsewhere on the web.

Access Africa. http://www.access-africa.co.uk/main.html#
Access Africa is a site for people with limited mobility that is run by the same people that put out Bradt travel guides. The site offers endless options in Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa – many are safari-related, others are not.

Disabled World – African Safari Travel Tips http://www.disabled-world.com/travel/africa/african-safari-tips.php
This feature is part of the Disabled World website, and provides a rundown of basic tips for your trip, from passports and visas to travel insurance and safety. This page also has related links to experiences by other disabled travelers.

Disabled World – Disability Travel. http://www.disabled-world.com/travel/
This is a short feature on the Disabled World website about things for disabled travelers and their family and friends to consider before and during the planning process.

Disabled World – Tour Operators. http://www.disabledtravelers.com/tour_operators.htm#africa
This is a list provided by Disabled World of accessible tour operators around the world, including their websites and contact information.

DPTAC – Door to Door. http://www.dptac.gov.uk/door-to-door/13/index.htm
This resource provides a variety of information on disabled travel, as well as outside links on all aspects of travel, from choosing accommodations and medical preparation.

East Africa Shuttles – Kenya Wildlife Wheelchair Safaris http://www.eastafricashuttles.com/kenyasafaridisabled/handicappedsafaris.htm
This page provides information on a seven-day, wheelchair accessible wildlife safari in Kenya. This is a small group safari, staffed by individuals that have experience worked with disabled travelers. This site provides a sample itinerary, as well as a description of accommodations.

Emerging Horizons. http://emerginghorizons.com/
Emerging Horizons is an online resource for disabled travelers. The site provides general travel tips and resources pertaining to accessibility, as well as links to other publications specializing in disabled travel.

Endeavor Safaris. http://www.endeavour-safaris.com/tours/our-vehicles.htm
Endeavor Safaris prides themselves on offering a number of safari options that can be specifically tailored to travelers with limited mobility, hearing impairment, visual impairment, and those travelers needing the use of oxygen tanks or undergoing kidney dialysis. They have fully accessible vehicles, and have many safety benefits in place, including a 24-hour call center, emergency evacuation to a medical facility (if required) and other benefits.

Gimp on the Go. http://www.gimponthego.com/index.htm
Gimp on the Go bills itself as the Internet's premier disabilities travel publication. This well-organized site offers travel tips and reviews, as well as a bulletin board for travelers to interact with each other, as well as links to other resource geared towards disabled travelers.

Mobility International USA. http://www.miusa.org/ncde/tipsheets/powerchairs
This site provides a guide on electrical adaptors, converters and transformers for international travel with power wheelchairs and other electrical devices.

Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH). http://www.sath.org/index.php
This is the homepage for the Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality. They provide a variety of information for disabled travel, including accessibility reviews and information on various events that SATH participates in, as well as contact information.

Transitions Abroad – Health, Safety and Insurance for Travelers and Expatriates Abroad. http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/living/resources/healthandsafety.shtml
This site is a good resource for health and safety information, including government agencies and other bodies that may be able to assist you during your travels, either remotely or in-country.

Victoria Safaris – Disability Tours. http://www.victoriasafaris.com/africa/disabilitytours.htm
Victoria Safaris offers some disability-friendly safari opportunities, especially for those in wheelchairs. This site offers basic information on traveling with disabilities, as well as links to their accessible programs.

World on Wheelz. http://worldonwheelz.com/
World on Wheelz specializes in travel for “wheelchair users, slow walkers, and seniors with special needs.” They offer both group and independent travel, and their site provides a variety of accessible safari opportunities in multiple countries of varying duration, complete with sample itineraries to find a trip that best suits your wants and needs. They also provide a number of travel opportunities in other places around the world.

Tanzania has many natural and cultural attractions that are stereotypically “Africa,” and many travelers to Tanzania want to take full advantage of all that it has to offer, from reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro to safaris in Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. Tanzania is unique in that is has an island archipelago that is, in many ways, the polar opposite of mainland Tanzania. The Zanzibar archipelago is nearly 100% Muslim, with various Middle Eastern, African, and even some Indian influences and it is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches. Zanzibar is a popular weekend destination for travelers that can’t spend more time there, and a great way to get a taste of the local culture is to eat with a Zanzibari family in their home. If you’re interested in great Swahili food in a welcoming atmosphere, check out Nyumbani in Stone Town (Mji Mkongwe in Kiswahili) on the main island of Unguja. The residents, Amir and Khadija, do all the cooking with the help of other family members. The price is right – approximately 6700 Tanzanian shillings (about $5 USD) will get you a full meal with soup and snacks as starters, an amazing main course with a variety of dishes, and even dessert. You’ll experience the flavors of the Spice Islands while engaging in great conversation. Check it out between Soko Muhugo Street and Vuga Road opposite the Haven Hotel. You need to make reservations in person by the morning of the day that you want to eat dinner, either in person or by calling (024 2238170).

Try a Volunteer Vacation in Kenya

A great way to give back during your trip is to volunteer in some capacity in the country you’re visiting. While a lot of volunteer programs don’t offer a lot of flexibility in terms or dates and duration, there are some US-based organizations that allow you to wrap up your trip with some volunteer work or to give back to a local community before you move on to experience more of what a country has to offer. Global Vision International (GVI) is one such organization that offers a variety of ways to get involved in a number of different countries. One opportunity allows travelers to volunteer in Kenya on an educational project. Volunteers get to participate in local community development efforts, including teaching English and working on sustainable tourism initiatives. GVI offers a variety of program durations, from two weeks to ten weeks, and volunteers are trained by GVI staff prior to getting started. This particular program is unique in that it’s located in the Shimoni Archipelago, which means you’ll get to experience the rich coastal biodiversity and scenery of East Africa, and given it’s location near the boarder of Tanzania, it’s just a short trip inland or over the boarder for all your safari needs. Teaching English is exceptionally rewarding, and you’ll get to learn some Kiswahili in the process. You will help open doors for individuals and communities and support long-term development in the place that you work. To learn more, check out: http://www.gviusa.com/expeditions/Africa/Kenya/volunteer-teaching-kenya/home

Community Service in Capetown, South Africa

Based out of Chicago, Greenheart Travel, a division of the Center for Cultural Interchange, offers opportunities around the world to volunteer in environmentally and socially conscious ways. Their Township Project in Capetown is an ongoing community development project that provides services for an entire community, from school-aged children to adults. Volunteers participate in rebuilding, tutoring, community gardening, sustainable development, soup kitchens, and other cultural programs in a community that was ravaged by fire at the end of 2008. The conditions in the village are described as “rustic,” and this venture is recommended for travelers with some prior experience, especially in poverty-stricken areas. As with the other opportunities, you can use the Township Project as a springboard for your South African travels, or as a rewarding way to round out your trip. Full orientation is provided, as well as other services like 24-hour emergency care to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. To learn more about this unique, ongoing opportunity, check out: http://www.cci-exchange.com/travelabroad/program.aspx?id=1264

Electric power plug M has the official name of BS 546. Type M is a “15 A/250 V” version of electric plug D: 220/230V 50 Hz. Note that electric plug M is larger than D, thus plug D is not compatible in South Africa. A comment from a local I met was "I am sure that this is what they had in mind when they made that bastard... They probably said -this is just a colony, and these people don't use electricty, so who cares" :)

Tanzania: Electric plugs D & G 230V 50Hz.

Travelling to Tanzania you will need to bring both the electric travel adapter D and G. Electric plug D has the official name BS 546 (5 A/250 V earthed). This plug is commonly used in countries colonized by the British. Plug G also known as the standard British 3-pin rectangular blade plug or the "13-amp plug". The official name is BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused).

Kenya: Electric plug G 240V 50Hz.

Travelling to Kenya you will need to use electric travel adapter G also know as the standard British 3-pin rectangular blade plug or the "13-amp plug".

Zambia: Electric plugs C, D & G 230V 50Hz.

Going on safari in Zambia we recommend you to bring all of the above electrical travel adapters. Electric plug C is commonly known as the “Europlug” but the official name is CEE 7/16 (Europlug 2.5 A/250 V unearthed). This plug is used throughout continental Europe, Middle East and much of Africa, South America, former Soviet countries and Central Asia.

Namibia: Electric plug M 220v 50Hz.

Safari travelers going to Namibia need to use electric travel adapter M which is the same for South Africa.

Please let us know if you have any questions or comments in regards to electric travel plugs related to your Safari.

If you want to read up more about power plugs click here.

• Alternative energy & energy conservation
• Gray water recycling & water conservation
• Composting and recycle bins
• Cotton towels and linens & sheet and towel re-use programs
• Eco-friendly and organic food served
• Educate staff and guests about green practices
• Maintenance for conservation – voluntarily replacing infrastructure that is causing environmental harm, like leaking toilets or broken taps
• Environmentally friendly transportation

• Donating to local charity
• Hiring local staff
• Participating in local programs
• Participating in local green programs

• Promote green in the PR