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  EIGHT POINTS AFRICA
  • Home
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    • Botswana
    • Mozambique
    • South Africa
    • Zimbabwe
  • Special Interests
    • Birding
    • Family Holiday
    • Horse Riding
    • Romantic Getaway
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  • Possible Itineraries
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10 things we think should be on your Bucket List in 2021

6/29/2020

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(This list is in no particular order and there are so many, we found it hard to restrict to just 10)

Kaapsehoop South Africa
  1. Victoria Falls - Also known as ‘Mosi - oa - Tunya’ – ‘the smoke that thunders’. It is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is considered to be one of the world's largest waterfall due to its width of 1,708 metres (5,604 ft). The river plunges 100m into a vertical chasm. This creates the greatest curtain of falling water in the world and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. 
    Victoria Falls can be visited when staying in either Zambia or Zimbabwe. When visiting the Falls there is a variety of activities to excite adventure junkies – bungee jumping, white river rafting, swimming in a natural pool on the edge of the falls, helicopter flights as well as the more sedate sunset river cruises. There is also a number of Parks to explore.


  2. Okavango Delta – It is not a UNESCO World Heritage site for no reason. Glide through the Okavango on a traditional mokoro, explore the islands on foot taking in magnificent scenery, view game, birds, insects, medicinal plants, tracks, signs, droppings, and other fascinating natural phenomena.

  3. Cape Town - Hike up Table Mountain (Or take the cable care if you wish), taste some of the best South African wines whilst taking in the views of the vineyards, visit the penguins in Simon’s Town and so much more. This city and the surrounds have so much to offer.

  4. Kaapsehoop - In the Greater Kruger, nestled in the Drakensberg mountain range, 1486 m above sea level, you will find the quaint historic mining town of Kaapsehoop, which is today famous for being home to the wild horses.
    Kaapsehoop has a lovely laid back, artistic, hippie vibe which allows visitors to immediately feel relaxed upon arrival
    Take a horse ride with not a single worry in the world amongst the wild horses, through the plantations and up onto the escarpment where there were the most breath-taking views.
    For those that are not keen on horses, take a walk along the escarpment and to visit the waterfalls, try your hand at pottery making, painting, and enjoy South Africa’s version of ‘Stonehenge’ with the unusual rock formations. 

  5. Coastline of Mozambique – The coasts of Mozambique have lots to offer in the way of activities from deep sea fishing, diving, snorkeling, surfing, paddle boarding and much more. Mozambique is also a wonderful destination to enjoy whale watching during the months of July to November every year as the Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales make their annual migration along the Mozambican coastline on their way to and from their winter breeding grounds. Certain parts of the coastline also play host to both Loggerhead and Leatherback turtle nesting sites. The emergence of the hatchlings normally occurs from December through to late March

  6. Kruger National Park – Larger than Israel, Kruger National Park is the largest and most famous game reserve in South Africa. Operated by the South African National Parks Board it is arguably the emblem of South African tourism and is a must visit when in South Africa. Kruger National Park and the neighbouring private reserves, which make up the Greater Kruger, offer some of the best game viewing in Africa.

  7. Track Desert Elephants in Namibia – Desert adapted elephants are only found in 2 places in the World, of which Namibia is one of them. The number of desert adapted elephants is something highly disputed. However, the one thing is certain is they are rare, and to see them in the desert is pretty spectacular.
    These adapted elephants travel in smaller groups than your typical African elephants so that there is less pressure on the group to find the amount of food a large herd would need. They are also able to go several days without drinking any water, which together with their ability to walk long distances, helps them get from one oasis to the next.

  8. Canoe the lower Zambezi – What better way to experience one of Africa most famous rivers than at water level in a canoe. The Lower Zambezi weaves through some of the most incredible wildlife regions. This unique canoeing experience is combined with wildlife viewing at its best. Canoeing offers a superb, quiet way of approaching wildlife

  9. Take in some of South Africa history as you tour the battlefields in KwaZulu Natal  – With over 82 battlefields and museums on this route this is the highest concentration of South African battlefield sites, where Zulu, British and Boer battled it out over a turbulent period lasting almost 70 years.
    We recommend booking a guided tour throughout this region to ensure that you see all the points of interest and are able to get as much information and history as possible. These points include Shaka’s Memorial in KawDukuza, Eshowe Fort in Eshowe, Eshowe Museum, Isandlwana Battlefields, Fugitives Drift and Rourke’s Drift.
    ​
  10. South Africa’s Panorama route and Blyde River Canyon - The Panorama Route is a scenic drive in South Africa’s Mpumlanga province which connects several cultural and natural points of interest. This route includes waterfalls, look out points, including Gods Window, and looking out over the three rondawels, the Blyde River Canyon and Blyde Dam. Blyde River Canyon,is the World’s third largest canyon and Africa’s second largest canyon and is also thought to be the largest ‘Green Canyon’ in the World. 
Canoe Lower Zambezi
Turtle Anvil Bay
Victoria Falls
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Are safaris family friendly?

6/9/2020

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African Bush Camp Family Safaris
Family Safaris - Eight Points Africa
Absolutely! Yes!
Safaris are a great way to expose children to new experiences, nature and the great outdoors. The best education we can give children are experiences and Southern Africa is most definitely full of them.

As a mother raising 2 children myself in the Greater Kruger region, my children have been privileged enough to be going on safari since they were tiny newborns, and not just within South Africa. I encourage everyone with families to go on safari, however it is vitally important to choose the correct safari camp or lodge. Coming from a background of working within lodges and then lodge sales and marketing, I am only too familiar that some establishments will claim that they are child friendly, but the reality is they have a family room and that is where it ends. Luckily, the good news is there are many others that have grasped the concept of family travel and they have evolved their camp/lodge around this with specialised child focused activities with specially trained family guiding staff, child minding services, amazing menus which appeal to the younger generations, junior ranger programs for the children, and so much more.
As well as many private camps and lodges now adapting and embracing family travel there is also, for some,the more laid-back self-drive options. You and your family are in your own (or rented) vehicle and the daily itinerary is set by your own timetable and limitations. These options are often available on self catering, Bed and Breakfast or Dinner, Bed and Breakfast basis
 
Booking a family holiday is never an easy task. You want to ensure that everyone travelling, whether young children or teenagers and adults will have the best experiences. This is an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, making everlasting memories and securing bonds that everyday life sometimes gets in the way of. 
As a parent your main priority is often the children. Not only do you want them to have the best holiday, you want this to happen in an environment that is safe. However, you as a parent need to be able to relax, rewind and also enjoy the holiday that you have worked hard to afford. 
It is vitally important that whenever booking any holiday, but particularly a family holiday, that you do your research and this is where your travel agent is there to help and advise you of the options available.

We, at Eight Points Africa, work with many tried and tested family friendly safari camps and lodges in all the destinations we sell and can advise our clients on the best ones for their family, taking into account interests, children’s ages, requirements etc. This process does not need to be stressful, it should be an enjoyable, exciting experience from research, to booking and to actually going on your holiday. 
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Family Safaris - Lodges of Botswana
Family Safaris - Eight Points Africa
Family Safaris - Eight Points Africa
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Where to spend Christmas 2020 and celebrate New Year 2020-2021?

5/29/2020

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Southern Africa celebrates the festive season in the middle of our summer, which to many is a very strange concept. To have Christmas in the sun and heat, is a fabulous time to travel with so many different options. Whether you would like to spend your days relaxing and taking in the sea air, on a safari or exploring the many vibrant towns and cities, there is something for everyone. 

Botswana have their low season during the summer months, therefore you can really take advantage of their lower prices and special offers. This time of year is known as the Green Season, as not only is it summer, but it is also the rainy season which means the bush explodes in lush green tones of grass, trees and also pops of colour from the wild flowers.Migratory birds have returned from Northern Africa and Europe filling the sky with bird song and vibrant colours. Animals generally give birth to their young in the summer months, and who doesn’t want the opportunity to oooohhhh and aaaaahhhh over cute baby animals.
All regions seem to come alive at this time of year and every region has something different to offer.
It should be noted that the Okavango Delta water levels are at their lowest at this time of year, therefore you should not expect the iconic image of water everywhere. The low water levels are however, good news for the game viewing, as lower water levels restricts animal movements as they stay around permanent water sources.

Mozambique with over 2500km of un-spoilt beaches is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a beach holiday. Whether you like to relax in the sun on the beach or by a pool, or fill your days with water activities such as deep sea diving, fishing, snorkeling, paddle boarding and much more, Mozambique’s coastlines have so much to offer.
The reefs of the Bazaruto Archipelago are home to over 1200 species of marine creatures including the rare Dugong. The deep channels that flow off the coast of Mozambique offer some of the best Big Game Fishing for Marlin and Sail Fish in the world.
Certain parts of the coastline also play host to both Loggerhead and Leatherback turtle nesting sites. The emergence of the hatchlings normally occurs from December through to late March.
 
Namibia is a popular destination for those that like to self-drive and explore everything on offer. Namibia is full of stark differences from the costal regions on Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and the Skeleton coast to the sand dunes of the Namibian desert.
If you are in the south of Namibia a visit to the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa, is a must. However, you should keep in mind that it is the second most visited tourist attraction in Namibia so it may well be busy in December.
If you are looking to avoid crowds and see the more natural side on Namibia, a Namibian safari is like no other in Africa and there is no shortage of options. We recommend taking the opportunity to track the famous desert elephants, if you get the chance.
Namibia is also home to the Caprivi Strip which separates Namibia and it’s neighbouring countries along this 450km section. It is a spectacular region to visit, however please keep in mind that the water levels in the Caprivi are likely to be low during December unless they have experienced very good early localized rainfall.
 
South Africa has something for everyone, however it will not be possible to do it all in one trip. Whether you would like a beach holiday, a city break or safari, South Africa has it all.
Visit the buzzing vibrant city of Cape Town, taking in the culture and history of the city. Visit Table Mountain, relax on one of the many beaches, visit the penguins in neighbouring Simon’s Town or get yourself out to the many vineyards in the winelands and experience some of the best wine in the World. You will definitely not be short of things to do in Cape Town.
If you would prefer the more peaceful and nature filled holiday, there are so many amazing National Parks and private Game Reserves to be seen. Spend your days getting up with the sun and getting out in search of what animals you can find that day.
If you are in the Kruger Region you should include a trip to the stunning Blyde River Canyon, second largest canyon in Africa and thought to be the largest ‘Green Canyon’ in the World.
South Africa also has some incredible beaches to be enjoyed. The coastlines are a popular attraction over this period and brings a real festive vibe. However, there are more private and secluded options as well, if you would prefer to avoid the crowds.
 
Zambia is a destination that seems too often to be overlooked, when in fact it should be up there with the best African holiday destinations. Although for many of the famous ‘Zambia must do’s’ December is not the ideal time due to being water based (Victoria Falls, Devils Pool, sunset cruise on the Zambezi) this does not mean that Zambia should not be visited at this time of year. 
If you are interested in History, Livingstone is an amazing town full of history with museums and places of interest to visit.
For all the nature lovers, Zambia has some of the best nature reserves in Africa offering some amazing game viewing. One of the great things about Zambia is that it is one of Africa’s best kept secrets, meaning your safari experience is a lot more exclusive due to less visitors than you may find elsewhere in Africa.
Did you know that the largest mammal migration is actually in Zambia between October and December? About 10 million straw coloured fruit bats descend into a tiny patch of evergreen swamp forest inside Kasanka National Park, Northern Zambia

Zimbabwe has so much to offer. December is not the best time to visit Victoria Falls as the water levels in the Zambezi are low, however Zimbabwe is not just about Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls town does have so many other things other than the falls themselves. Why not go for high tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel or a trip on the steam train during your stay at Victoria Falls. It will transform you to a bygone era of luxury steam train travel.
As with Botswana, December in Zimbabwe falls into low season, therefore huge savings are to be had, as well as being able to take advantage of the summer rains. With the bush exploding into new life, why not visit Hwange National Park or Zambezi National Park for the incredible safaris. If you are a seasoned safari goer and like to get off the beaten track and away from everything and everyone, the Gonarezhou National Park should be on your list.
Alternatively spend your time overlooking ‘’Zimbabwe’s ocean’, Lake Kariba, either from one of the lodges on the banks or spend your time sipping cocktails on one of the houseboats.

Chobe Boat Cruise
asDunas Mozambique Beach
Tropic of Capricorn Namibia
Deadvlei Nambia
Baby Impala
Blyde River Canyon
Lioness in South Luangwa
Carmine Bee Eaters South Luangwa
Zambezi Cruise and Safaris Houseboat
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Having a Blue Monday after Black Friday?....We have specials!!!

11/26/2018

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Are you having a blue Monday after Black Friday? Do you feel like you need some sunshine and a holiday?
Good news....we can make this blue Monday happier and full of sunshine with our fantastic specials. 
Don't miss out, give yourself something to look forward to in 2019
Blue Monday Specials
Blue Monday Special - Zimbabwe
Blue Monday Special - Botswana
Blue Monday Special - Mozambique
Blue Monday Special - Kruger
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What to pack for a safari?

10/19/2018

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Packing lists are widely available all over the internet, with every travel agent and tour operator will have their own packing lists, all of which all are very similar. Please find below Eight Points Africa recommended packing list.

Suggestions of What to Pack
It is important to pack light – remember that very strict weight restrictions apply on the light aircraft that ferry you from lodge to lodge within the remote regions – a maximum of 20kg per person INCLUDING hand luggage/camera equipment. Furthermore only soft bags will be accepted – hard suitcases and bags with rigid frames may not be accepted by the pilot, causing considerable difficulties, delays and expense to the traveller. These restrictions are safety-related, and safety will not be compromised.


  • Valid passport for international travel
  • Passports must be valid for at least six month. Passengers travelling with passports, which do not comply with these requirements, will either be stopped from boarding the aircraft or risk deportation on arrival.
  • Visa if required
  • Reconfirm travel documents requirements with your carrier before departure
  • Additional form of photo ID - (e.g. driver’s license)
  • Photocopy of passport, visa and travel tickets to carry separately from your travel documents
  • Air tickets
  • Travel Insurance
  • Some local currency. (South African Rand, Botswana Pula and US Dollars)
 
Clothing should be casual and light-weight, in neutral colours - avoid whites and bright colours like red, yellow and blue. There will be opportunities to do laundry along the way so you don’t have to bring too much.
 
Suggested Minimum Packing List:
  • 2 pairs of khaki cotton long pants / trousers
  • 1 pair of shorts
  • 3 x lightweight fast-dry (hiking styled) shirts and tshirts
  • 2 long sleeved shirts (for sun protection as well as warmth)
  • 1 light jersey or jacket
  • 1 warm top (fleece) good for around the fire in the evenings.
  • 1 lightweight raincoat/windbreaker or a waterproof poncho – year round essential
  • 1 pair of sturdy walking shoes & 1 pair of casual shoes or sandals
  • Swimming costume
  • 1 hat with a broad brim (a cap does not cover your neck and ears so precautions need to be taken for proper sun protection, The African sun is harsh from every angle)
  • Fleece beanie (can be traded for a buff) – The breeze generated by a safari vehicle can be chilly, particularly on the ears.
  • 1 or 2 x Buffs (multi-functional tubular bandanna) – This is a versatile accessory with a range of uses, from keeping your hair off your face, the sun or cold wind off your neck, the dust off your camera or even folded double as a beanie.
 
Early mornings and evenings can be very cold, especially during the game activities. Layers are the most practical for the fluctuating day/night temperatures. In addition to the list of clothing above, in the cooler months you should also pack:


  • 1 track suit (comfortable enough to sleep in)
  • Extra jersey and jacket
  • Beanie, scarf and gloves
 
Don’t forget these additional necessities:
  • Sunscreen
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Sunglasses
  • Lightweight binoculars & camera
  • Flashlight (one PER PERSON) and spare batteries
  • Anti-histamine tablets if you are susceptible to allergens/hay-fever
  • Kindle, iPad
  • Phone and charger (You can pick up a local sim card at the airport).
  • Camera and charger.
  • A couple of re-sealable plastic bags.
 
Safari Accessories/ Aids:
  • 1 x birding book or app (Robert’s 7 Multimedia Birds of Southern Africa but if not available Sasol eBirds).
  • 1 x mammals’ book or App (Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa by Chris and Mathilde Stuart).
 
Optional extras:
  • 1 x sandals/ flip-flops (for around the camp or to air feet).
  • 1 x sarong/ shawl (addition protection from the elements).
  • 1 x toiletries/amenities
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The Okavango Delta - Story of the Floods

10/10/2018

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The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a large inland Delta formed where the Okavango River reaches a tectonic trough in the central part of the basic of the Kalahari.
Water levels are directly affected by meteorological conditions, which produce different environmental circumstances, each and every year. Of the many unpredictable forces that the locals in the Delta have to contend with, meteorological conditions are the greatest. It is unfortunately not possible to predict the exact course of each flood and rainy season, these things are simply not predictable.  This makes it very difficult and at certain times of the year, impossible, to predict water levels. The water levels in any region in the Delta can remain static for months and then drop suddenly and dramatically without warning. A short, but violent, thunderstorm, can likewise raise water levels for several weeks at a time.


The life-cycle of the Delta floods:
  • January - February: The Okavango River drains the summer rainfalls from the Angola highlands and the surge flows 1,200 kilometers in approximately one month.
  • March - June: The waters arrive and then spread over the 250km x 150km area of the delta over the next 4 months. The high temperature of the delta causes rapid transpiration and evaporation, resulting in a cycle of rising and falling water levels.
  • June - August: The flood peaks during Botswana’s dry winter months when the delta swells to three times its  natural/usual size, attracting animals from kilometers around and creating one of Africa’s greatest concentration of wildlife.
  • September – December: Temperatures begin to again rise as summer arrives and the delta waters dry and the Kalahari sand soaks it up. The major channels within the Delta remain, however the smaller waterways dry up completely. During the summer months the water levels are completely reliant on the localized rainfall whilst the Delta awaits the floods from Angola once again at the beginning of the year.
 
The delta is very flat with less than 2 metres variation in height across its 15,000km2.
Some numbers to boggle the brain:
  • Each year approximately 11 cubic kilometres (11,000,000,000 litres) of water spread over the 6,000 -15,000km2 area.
  • Approximately 60% is consumed through transpiration by plants
  • 36% by evaporation
  • 2% percolates into the aquifer system
  • 2% flows in Lake Ngami
  • 0% flow into any sea or ocean

    Information gathered from Multiple sources including Wikipedia and Footsteps in Africa
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Why you should book a Southern African holiday with an independent travel agency

10/3/2018

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With it being so easy to access information and make bookings online these days, is it really beneficial to still use a travel agent?
The answer is YES! Especially when travelling within Africa and the more remote areas.
Travel agents are often perceived as ‘old school’, however todays travel agents are different. They are more than just a travel agent, they are travel advisors, destination specialists, logistics coordinators, problem solvers, crisis managers and so much more.
​
In brief, here are the top 5 reasons why you should use an independent travel agent.
  1. Saves you time
  2. Saves you money and gets you the best deals.
  3. First hand destination knowledge and experience.
  4. Safety for you whilst travelling
  5. Start of a great relationship

Saves you time – Our lives are so busy these days surely any way to save time is a bonus?!
Planning a trip is a time consuming and complicated process, there are often lots of logistics involved. Travel agents simplify the process for you, booking most, if not all of the ground arrangements on your behalf. Instead of you spending hours trolling through one well written website to the next trying to decipher why one establishment is better than the last and how to get from A to B in the middle of nowhere, leave it to the experts. Let them do the research and recommend a trip perfectly tailored to your wants and needs’

Saves you money and getting you the best deals - Travel agents have many contacts and connections. They have preferred rates that they have negotiated on your behalf, access to specials, benefits and upgrades, allowing them to quote you at very competitive prices, often less than you would be able to do if you booked yourself and making you aware of the incredible special offers and benefits.
The average European and American spend over 10% of their annual income on holidays every year, this is a huge chunk of money, it is vital that is it spent wisely and that you are left with no regrets.

First hand destinations knowledge and experience - Independent travel agents are not contracted, giving them more freedom as to how and with whom they do business. They will be honest with you and advise on destinations and establishments that they believe in and are passionate about and not just the ones that have been included in a brochure that they were given.
Although independent travel agents can ultimately sell you anywhere in the world, you will find that the majority specialise in specific destinations and regions within these larger areas. They are passionate about what they do and they personally visit this places, familiarising themselves, when you ask questions, you are not receiving an answer from a google search result you are receiving genuine advise from personal experience.  

Safety for you whilst travelling - Often travelling can be very daunting especially if problems occur. However, booking through an independent travel agent does not end when you pay your final invoice. This person will be dedicated to you throughout the planning of your trip and are on call for you whilst you are travelling. They are available to fix any problems that may crop up, whether it be reuniting you with lost luggage, rearranging a missed transfer or flight or arranging medical assistance in an emergency. They have the know how and the connections on the ground to very quickly and seamlessly arrange and fix everything for you.

Start of a great relationship - A good travel agent is like a pair of your favourite underwear. Once you realise how good they are and how easy they made your life you will want to continue to use them over and over again. You will also recommend them to your relatives and friends. By using an independent travel agent you are gaining essentially a new long distance friend.  
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