#lake Malawi snorkeling

[theadventureoffice]

Discover the Wonders of Liwonde National Park with Personalised Malawi Travel

Experience the magic of Malawi through our personalised travel packages, designed to cater to your unique preferences. A standout feature of our packages is a visit to Liwonde National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. Engage in thrilling game drives, serene boat safaris, and immersive walking tours. Let us create a bespoke itinerary that ensures a memorable journey through Malawi. Find out more about our personalised Malawi travel options.

[hungrytravellers]

Lake Malawi Days

[delusionalbubble]

10 best lakes to visit in africa

Africa is home to a number of beautiful lakes that are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. From the large and deep Lake Victoria, the source of the Nile River, to the shallow and shrinking Lake Chad, there is a lake for every type of traveler. These lakes offer a variety of activities, from boating and fishing to birdwatching and diving, and are surrounded by breathtaking…

[thaneweb]

Visa services for weight in Thane for overseas travel-50 Countries Where Getting A Visa Is Easier Than Ordering A Pizza

Introduction

 When it comes to planning a vacation, visa requirements can often be a hurdle. However, for Indian travelers, there are several stunning destinations that offer visa-free entry or visa on arrival. In this article, we will explore the top 25 visa-free travel destinations for Indians, allowing you to plan your next international getaway without worrying about visa formalities.

Jordan

 Known for its rich historical sites and natural wonders, Jordan offers visa on arrival for Indians. Explore the ancient city of Petra, indulge in scuba diving in the Dead Sea, and visit the numerous mosques and temples.

Kenya

Experience the surreal beauty of wildlife and the iconic Mt. Kilimanjaro in Kenya. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and enjoy the diverse range of attractions this East African country has to offer.

Nepal 

Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Nepal is a nature lover's paradise. Indians can enter Nepal without a visa and immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.

Laos 

Visa on arrival is available for Indians visiting Laos. Explore the stunning caves, visit the Phonsavan hills, and experience the enchanting beauty of this Southeast Asian gem.

Maldives

 The Maldives, with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a dream destination for many. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and indulge in the ultimate tropical getaway.

Thailand

 From the bustling city of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket, Thailand offers a diverse range of experiences. Indians can enjoy a visa-free stay of 15 days in this vibrant country.

Madagascar

 With its unique flora and fauna, Madagascar is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the country's stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Seychelles

 Experience the turquoise waters and breathtaking beaches of Seychelles. Indians can enjoy a visa-free stay of 30 days in this tropical paradise.

Uganda

 Embark on a wildlife adventure in Uganda, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning national parks. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the wonders of this East African country.

Bhutan

 Experience the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of Bhutan, also known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon." While Indians don't require a visa, they are allowed to stay for a maximum of 14 days.

Mauritius

Indulge in the beauty of Mauritius, with its stunning beaches, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant culture. Indians can enjoy a visa-free stay of 60 days in this tropical paradise.

Saint Lucia 

Discover the unspoiled beauty of Saint Lucia, an island in the Caribbean Sea. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the picturesque landscapes and vibrant local life.

Samoa

A cluster of ten picturesque islands, Samoa offers a variety of activities for every type of traveler. Indians can enjoy a visa-free stay of 2 months in this Oceanian country.

Indonesia 

From the iconic Bali to the bustling city of Jakarta, Indonesia offers a wealth of experiences. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

Dominica

  Known as the "Isainly! Here are the remaining visa-free travel destinations for Indians:

Fiji:

 Visa not required for Indians (up to 4 months). Stunning beaches, turquoise landscapes, and vibrant marine life. Activities: snorkeling, diving, water sports. Must-visit: Mamanuca Islands, Coral Coast, Suva. Indian travelers, discover Fiji's tropical paradise..

 17.Jamaica

           Explore the reggae rhythms and stunning landscapes of Jamaica. Indians can obtain a                        visa on arrival and discover the country's beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and vibrant cities.

18.Malawi

 Known as the "Warm Heart of Africa," Malawi offers stunning national parks, scenic landscapes, and the beautiful Lake Malawi. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore this hidden gem.

 19. Myanmar 

Uncover the rich cultural heritage and ancient temples of Myanmar. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the wonders of Bagan, Mandalay, and Yangon.

20. Qatar

Experience the blend of traditional and modern in Qatar. Indians can enjoy visa-free entry into Qatar and explore its vibrant capital, Doha, and its cultural and architectural landmarks.

21.Tanzania

 Embark on a safari adventure and witness the Great Migration in Tanzania. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the iconic Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro.

22. Tunisia

 Discover the historical and cultural treasures of Tunisia. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the ancient ruins of Carthage, the vibrant markets of Tunis, and the stunning coastal towns.

23. Vanuatu

 Escape to the tropical paradise of Vanuatu, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and enjoy the natural beauty of this Pacific island nation.

24.Zimbabwe 

Experience the majestic Victoria Falls and go on thrilling safaris in Zimbabwe. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival and explore the country's national parks and rich wildlife.

25. Ecuador: Visa not required for Indians (up to 90 days). Greenest destination, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beautiful countryside, enchanting water bodies, exotic wildlife. Explore Ecuador's natural wonders.

Conclusion These visa-free travel destinations offer Indian travelers a range of experiences, from historical sites and natural wonders to stunning beaches and wildlife adventures. Whether you're looking for a cultural immersion or a tropical escape, these destinations have something for everyone. Remember to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before planning your trip. Pack your bags and get ready to explore these incredible destinations hassle-free!

Thaneweb A City portal dedicated exclusively for Thane City.

Visit Us-https://www.thaneweb.com/

[parkes-and-wrecks]

Lake Malawi is home to one of the continent’s largest populations of the African Fish Eagle. Technically a sea eagle, these singular birds are easily identified by their orange and white plumage.

This eagle was perched on Thombe Island. The small boat which had just taken us snorkelling with the lake’s endemic cyclids then steered around the island. The pilot then threw a fish in the water, and from kilometres away a small white dot launched itself from a tree. First they circled above us and then with pinpoint precision dove, levelled out and plucked the fish from the water.

[bikotours]

Africa Adventure Safari -Unveiling the Adrenaline rush

When you think of Africa, you think of lions, tigers, giraffes, and other animals, as well as the beauty and grandeur of the landscape. Africa has even more than you may have expected, with everything from beautiful beaches to endless deserts and wildlife that many of you have never seen in Africa Adventure Safaris. Adventurers appreciate this vast refuge, which is full of fascinating locations and activities to discover.

In Africa, there are several methods to show adventurous spirit.There are also numerous trip selections to offer you best luxury safaris in Africa. you may take an exhilarating wildlife trip, a quiet bonfire retreat, or simply rest in one of Africa's stunning beaches' numerous magnificent hotels. The most popular tours, however, are those which take you on a true expedition to see the incredible African animals. These excursions discover national parks and reconnect with nature, bringing you closer than you've ever been to the wild! Some of the excursions you might wish to consider are mentioned below. Read the complete guide to explore.

Kruger National Park Walking Safari

This tour will allow you to get up and personal with Kruger National Park's attractions. This journey will take you on a three-night/four-day walking trek through Ngala's enigmatic environment. This region is home to some of Africa's most spectacular wildlife. The sights of rhinos and elephant herds meandering about are breathtaking. There's never a dull moment on this African trip! All meals and campfires are provided by the tour rangers. You'll quickly discover that they are not ordinary rangers, but African gourmets. While this is a guided tour, you may rest confident that you will be comfortable in your fully furnished tent camps each night.

South Africa's Garden Route Tour

This African adventure journey will leave you astonished as it changes directions from the arid dunes to the lovely mountains. The spectacular Garden Route, which runs across South Africa's Western Cape, along Route 62, and then through the Little Karoo, practically disappears behind the semi-desert sections and dense rainforest veils. One of the greatest ways to experience Africa and its incredible beauty is on this four-day tour.

Lake Malawi Kayak Tour

If you've ever fantasized about becoming a "castaway," this Africa Adventure Safaris with cruiseis for you! Relaxing camps may be found on Mumbo Island and Domwe Island, both of which are located in the southern part of Lake Malawi. If you want to kayak, dive and see magnificent rainbow fish, snorkel the shoreline, or comb the beach, this is the place to be. This expedition will take you to Lake Malawi National Park, Africa's first World Heritage Site, for eight days.

Conclusion:

On the end note, Of course, there are plenty of additional possibilities for amazing outdoor adventures and safari adventures. Family safaris, spa resorts, Kilimanjaro climbs, guided vacations, and more are among them. Whatever type of adventure you choose, you will undoubtedly enjoy your African safari vacation. With the help of this blog, you will be able to plan your trip by understanding your preferences and travel packages to enjoy your safari vacation.

[visaleets-blog]

Complete travel guide for kenya’s wild Safari

Kenya, one of the countries in East Africa, it is also home to wildlife like rhinos, elephants, and lions. It grabs the top position in the list of the best safari destinations in Africa.

Above 80k tourists across the globe witness to glimpse its safari views and wildlife areas like the Great Wildebeest Migration and Masai Mara National Reserve.

Planning a trip to Kenya, being a wildlife lover or thrill to capture astonishing memories in your life, is an appreciating idea. Tour with your family or buddies will give a superb-enthralling experience, which is unexpected from other tourist places.

Kenya e visa is a direct path to plan and overwhelms your trip to eastern Africa. Visaleets is an eVisa consultant who specializes in processing the applications for Kenya tourist visas speedily and authentically. To get a streamline and seamless visa process to explore the wildlife beauty of Kenya, click on this link now.

The visa process to Kenya becomes ease with eVisa, but lacking with Kenya safari guide will keep your trip unglamorous and somehow bored. So, continue reading the below-written safari guide of Kenya until it ends.

Location and     Landscape

Kenya is the smallest country in East Africa; Nairobi is its capital. Jomo Kenyatta, an international airport is an airport used by safari travellers. South Sudan, Somalia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Tanzania are neighbouring countries of Kenya.

Travellers must consider Nairobi as a central point, east, west, south, and north are the major areas of this capital.

Southern Kenya

The southern part of Kenya is mostly wetter. It connects Kenya's border with Tanzania, which is the highest peak in Africa. Also, you can witness the glacier-capped Mount Kilimanjaro over there.

Further, be sure, to move to Amboseli while in southern Kenya as it has a fantastic mix of wetlands, savannah, hills, and woodlands. Thus, you will witness the wide variety of species from tiny bats to elephants. West National Parks, Chyulu Hills, and Tsavo East are also nearby the southern part of Kenya.

Also, head to Hit Diani and Galu beach for experiencing water sports like kitesurfing. To get into diving or snorkelling, Funzi island is the best and even nearly it.

Central Kenya

Central Kenya is most populated as having Nairobi National Park, the most conservation areas. Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru are also pleasant places there. Aberdare Mountains are also nearby central Kenya where land becomes lush and green in the rainy season.

Northern Kenya

Northern Kenya is the astonishing safari option as of having Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Samburu National Park, Laikipia, Somali ostrich and Grevy's zebra. To take the glimpse of rhino, be sure to Lewa as this has consistent and regular rhinos.

Western Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve in the west of Kenya is limelight for this country. Annual Wildebeest Migration (the world's largest animal migration) is organized at Masai Mara where 2 million animals migrate every year. From July to November, you can head there to find massive zebra and wildebeest herds. Thus, this month is the right time to start your process for a Kenya visa.

Why is Masia Mara the best place for migration? Because it is a flat and open place offering superb grazing options for animals. Also, it has thick forests and high peaks with green grass which gets light golden when seasons pass. Further, the plain at Masai Mara influences plain games like reticulated, topi, Thomson gazelle, and Masai giraffe.

Cost for Kenya     safari

It is really challenging to get the exact cost of a Kenya safari. It is not constant as it has many variables. The cost is all dependent upon the accommodation, flights, safari places, activities you will participate like spa treatments, ballooning, mountain biking, etc. and also beverages you will devour.

Also, if you will plan a long trip with your family, then you have to spend a lot from your pocket. For a short trip, you will manage smoothly. Anyways, a trip to Kenya is always highly exciting and indelible. To get the exact cost of your Kenya's trip, ask from the Visaleets experts during consulting for a Kenya e visa.

4 reasons to     glimpse the wildlife at Kenya

Undoubtedly, Kenya is the best safari hub as of Masai Mara as of the following reasons:

Roads are     maintained very well.

English is the     primary language to converse.

The land is open     and flat and gives a 360-degree view.

Special treatment     is established between the conservationists, tribal landowners, government     and safari operators. In brief, the perfect balance between nature, human     and agriculture is maintained.

 Do you want to see     wildebeest migration?

The biggest wildlife gem of Kenya is Wildebeest Migration, wherein migration of around two million wildebeest over the Mara Riven into the Masai Mara. Further, in that place, they devour on thousands of hectares of fresh grazing. The fact is, they kept hanging for about 4-5 months and gradually mowed the Mara between July and November, at the time, and they crossed back in Tanzania.

Remember the     following guide before heading to this place:

Book your accommodation a year before as it is the major safari destination of Africa. Also, get your visa in advance too, else you have to wait.

It is not defined when the wildebeest will cross the Mara River. Might be, a large group of animals will pass through or a small one. The fact is, this suspense will make your safari trip superb.

This is really a popular phenomenon. Therefore, it is suggested to stay in private reserves rather than public to get away from big crowds.

Experiencing chases and kills is a thrilling activity. However, those with faint-heart should be kept away to take such glimpses.

Best Time to plan     for Kenya Safari

The Kenya safari guide is incomplete without knowing the best time to travel to this country. To get a clear picture, a table has framed below:

 BEST TIME FOR     KENYA TRIP

Months

January  to June

July  to November

Weather

Hot,  but afternoon thundershowers

Calm  and cool but not rainy

Season

Summer  and Spring

Winter  and Autumn

Landscape

Green  and lush

Dusty  and dry

View highlights

Birds,  bugs, and babies

Wildebeest  Migration

 Combine your trip     to other destinations like;

To make your trip super-excited, you should head to other high-profile destinations in Africa such as:

South Africa: It     is famous for the Garden Route, Kruger National Park and Cape Town.

Malawi: Lake     Malawi is the best to experience incredible snorkelling.

Zimbabwe: The best     for experiencing classic safari and Victoria Falls.

Uganda: The best     place for gorilla trekking lovers

Tanzania: The best     to do the safari on the Serengeti

Zambia: The best     for a walking safari

Therefore, if you make have enough time and of course money, then you will surely make a plan to visit the above destination on your Kenya tour.

Best for the     family: A trip to Kenya

Exploring Kenya with your family instead of alone will give you beyond than expected pleasure. If your family has adult children, then you must plan it very soon as they will learn a lot along with enjoying it.

Best for honeymoon     couple: A trip to Kenya

A Kenya trip is not only recommended for family, being newly married, but you must also plan your honeymoon in this wildlife country. A long trip for Kenya is recommended for couples as they have to make their time special and indelible.

How to get the     best trip to Kenya?

Visaleets is the best visa consultant for processing Kenya e visa to make your trip to this country hassle-free and early. It has been in this serving its clients online for a long time. Thus, you don’t need to visit Visaleets, just send your documents and fill up applications form and pay the required fee, and get your visa in your inbox. To get more details for eVisa to Kenya, click on this link.

[offtothelake]

Off to the lake!

Which LAKE? LAKE MALAWI !!!!!

OTTL will soon be providing transportation, accommodation and related leisure services like boat rides, scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing and much more.

OTTL is a tour operator to book or register Email to mayamikojmwanza@gmail.com or Call +265882339733

[giliidctrawangan]

padi idc gili islands

Any individual who has been to a Trawangan Dive test night will be comfortable with James, our quizmaster and one of the lead PADI Instructors at our jump resort on Gili Trawangan.

His story from office employment to jump god is a well-known story to a considerable lot of us in the plunge business. At a certain point, we as a whole chose to bid farewell to the standard nine-to-five so as to go out on a limb an into the universe of jumping. What's more, much the same as all of us, James has no expectation of regularly returning…

What was your past activity?

Subsequent to contemplating bookkeeping at school in Essex, I began my first occupation with a development organization in East London. I was 18 years of age at the time, padi idc gili islands  and I remained there for a long time. It was horrendous, extremely dreadful.

The day by day drive was generally spent sitting in somebody's armpit tuning in to some nitwit visiting trash on his versatile. The late night's voyage home was definitely on open vehicle, attempting to abstain from getting anybody's attention on the off chance that they had a blade and a demeanor.

To be completely forthright, I abhorred England. It was cool, exhausting and it rained constantly. On the off chance that my family didn't live there, I could cheerfully never step foot in the nation until kingdom come.

Not your most joyful minute at that point! So what did you do?

I set aside some dosh and booked myself on a multi month trip around Africa. It was an overland trek in a transport with a lot of others who were frustrated with this present reality. It was my first excursion outside of Europe so it was huge eye opener. We began in Cape Town and I figured out how to jump there. Be that as it may, blimey, it was cold. The water was 13 degrees – we needed to wear a 7mm semi-dry and I was all the while freezing! Notwithstanding this, it was an astonishing encounter and I kept on plunging all through excursion.

Lake Malawi was my first tester of making a plunge new water. Bunches of various fish and furthermore unique arranging was required in light of the fact that it was likewise height jumping. In Zanzibar I had my first make a plunge warm water and I couldn't accept the change it makes. I saw heaps of stuff – turtles and bunches of various reef fish. In the middle of, the excursion incorporated various safaris, wilderness boating, trekking to see gorillas, and so on. It was fabulous. What's more, for a half year, I lived in a tent and figured out how to make a fire, how to cook for the gathering and connected with my internal mountain man!

Did you head back home toward the finish of the outing?

In no way, shape or form! At the point when the excursion finished I traveled to Bangkok, Thailand and observed New Years Eve at a full moon party Koh Pha Ngan. Mental. Following a month or so of celebrating in Thailand, I advanced toward Borneo where I volunteered at an untamed life focus called Matang Wildlife Center. This included assisting with the orangutans, building walled in areas and heaps of trekking into the mosquito-invaded wilderness.

From that point onward, I cleared a path round the South-East Asia explorer circuit including Laos, Cambodia, Philippines and Singapore. I jumped at whatever point I found the opportunity. Specifically, Sipadan knocked my socks off. There was such a great amount of continuing during each plunge that I didn't have the foggiest idea where to look.

And afterward, did you head home?

Nah! I applied for a working occasion visa and made a beeline for Australia. I'd for a long while been itching to encounter life down under. As opposed to making a straight shot to Sydney like every other person, I went to Melbourne. I was concerned that Sydney would simply be London-on-Sea.

Furthermore, without precedent for what appeared ages, I found myself a legitimate line of work as a bookkeeper once more. It was the simplest method to gain some not too bad cash. After all the voyaging I had done, it was decent to appreciate a portion of the solaces of the created world once more. I had a decent gathering of mates that appreciated a beverage or two, so consistently was spent down the bar. What's more, at the end of the week, I would attempt to escape. On one event, I made a beeline for Cairns for a plunge stumble on the Great Barrier Reef, which was cool, yet not so much what I anticipated.

Did you proceed with your PADI instruction there?

As a matter of fact, it was en route home that I visited in Malaysia and did my next course in the Perhentians islands. I had arranged two weeks of chilling on sun-doused, palm tree lined sea shore before making a beeline for the UK. Be that as it may, I was exhausted following two or three days so I pursued my PADI Rescue Diver course with Emergency First Response. It was a fun course with heaps of individuals claiming to pass out submerged or suffocating superficially. I needed to tow a chunky person for what appeared miles. It was great exercise.

Is it safe to say that you were eager to be returning home after so long away?

You would think so. Be that as it may, actually no, not so much. Obviously it was decent to see loved ones. Be that as it may, the primary explanation I returned was on the grounds that I had come up short on cash, not on the grounds that I needed to come back to office life.

In any case, I got a bookkeeping work once more. I figured the time had come to grow up and prevent fleeing from duties.

Following three months in the activity, I understood I would not really like to grow up so I set aside up some more cash to go voyaging again and afterward quit my place of employment! Once more!

How could you get some answers concerning Trawangan Dive?

I did a Google look for 'making a plunge Indonesia' and the Gili islands sprung up. I messaged different diverse plunge focuses and the answer from the supervisor at the time, Amy, was the fastest and the most entertaining. That is all it took! I booked my flight the following day and a month or so later I landed on the island.

What's your opinion of the Gili islands?

At the point when I showed up, I was truly satisfied with my decision. It has the best parity of public activity and jumping of any island I've been to previously. Here and there you land in a plunging goal and keeping in mind that they are picture great, there's literally nothing to do at night.

In the event that you would prefer not to plunge the Gili islands (which would be damn disgrace) you could in any case do heaps of things – kayaking, sunbathing, swimming, horse riding, trek up a spring of gushing lava in close by Lombok, and so on. A few young ladies even sunbathe topless so it gives the folks a pleasant distraction between plunges!

How was your PADI Divemaster Course?

I really adored each snapshot of it. I had Philip as my guide and it placed me in an advantageous position for the remainder of my plunging profession. I helped on loads of various courses from – Discover Scuba Diving, Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver courses. Each Divemaster's most loved is the help on a Rescue Course – blacking out, shouting, vomiting, dying, freezing! Such a significant number of chances to channel my inward busybody!

I've seen you in a reasonable hardly any ensembles since you showed up…

I do cherish an outfit party! I've been dressed as Tarzan, a school young lady, a go-go artist, the Hoff, and a lot more other than. What's more, who can overlook the high school freak ninja turtles? That was for my snorkel test toward the finish of my Divemaster course – another psychological night I can scarcely recall!

How did the discover PADI IDC?

The two weeks passed by so rapidly in light of the fact that we were so occupied. I was under the impression we would be secured in the study hall constantly, however there were such a significant number of workshops, we never appeared to be out of the water.

I think I astonished many (counting myself) with my insight improvement introductions. My Essex highlight is a steady wellspring of delight for the individuals I work with, yet in the study hall introductions, clearly I changed my articulation and turned into an amiable Englishman talking the Queen's English. It's never happened again since!

What's more, shouldn't something be said about the PADI Instructor Examination?

For my PADI IE, we went to Bali. The conditions were entirely different to those around the Gili islands. We had 5 meter perceivability and seething ebb and flow that made the vast water introductions kinda testing. In contrast with different gatherings there, we appeared to be greatly improved arranged and this appeared in the last stamps – I went without a hitch!

Thus you started your new life as a PADI Instructor…

At the point when I returned I assisted doing some jumping and afterward they offered me a situation as a perpetual plunge teacher at the plunge resort. Monetarily things are a lot simpler at this point. I can bring home the bacon without plunging into investment funds. Actually, I'm in any event, figuring out how to spare a piece too. I love educating and the assortment it brings. One day I'll be directing a Discover Scuba Diving session and the following day I'll be showing Deep Specialty or Enriched Air.

[theadventureoffice]

Explore the Wonders of Lake Malawi Snorkeling

Lake Malawi snorkeling is an adventure you won't want to miss. Dive into the clear waters of this magnificent lake and discover a world teeming with colorful cichlid fish and breathtaking underwater landscapes. Whether you're new to snorkeling or have years of experience, snorkeling Lake Malawi offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Why You Should Try It:

Incredible Biodiversity: See a wide variety of fish species that you won't find anywhere else in the world.

Crystal Clear Waters: Enjoy excellent visibility, making it easy to see and photograph the underwater beauty.

Adventure for All: Suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to explore the underwater wonders of Lake Malawi. Learn more about our snorkeling tours here.

[wwolfrider]

Welcome to the #warmheartofafrica Godwin showing us a great spot to #snorkel and see some of the #endemicspecies of #cichlids #fish with @go.untamed (at Lake Malawi) https://www.instagram.com/p/B3YqXdlhJSh/?igshid=furyrb2rra99

[delusionalbubble]

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Lake Malawi

Looking for the top 10 reasons to visit Lake Malawi? Lake Malawi is a beautiful and diverse destination located in southeastern Africa. It is the ninth-largest lake in the world by volume and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 1000 species of fish found nowhere else in the world. The lake is a popular spot for tourists looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, as well as…

[biomedgrid]

Biomed Grid| Status of Fisheries in Republic of Malawi, Central Africa

Editorial

David Livingstone first saw Lake Nyassa, now Lake Malawi, in 1859 and was bewitched by its beauty. “The lake of stars”, he called it, as a myriad winking galaxy glittered from the crystal facets of the water. The lake gathers most of its water from rivers to the west, and has only one outlet, the Shire River. The Shire drains the lake at its most southern point, opposite the town of Mangochi. Established on the east bank in 1891, the little town was a garrison against slave traffic. Boadzulu, a rocky island off Club Makokola, mentioned by David Livingstone in his Narrative of an Expedition to the Zambezi and its Tributaries and the Discovery of Lakes Nyassa and Chilwa (London, 1865), is well worth the short cruise to see giant monitor lizards basking on the rocks. The population of fish eagles on this shoreline is said to be the densest in Africa and their haunting cries are heard everywhere, dawn till dusk. The third largest lake in Africa, and one of the deepest in the world,  its  water  is  particularly  pure.  Fish  prefer  the  shallower,  southern  end,  so  it’s  no  surprise  that  the  human  population  is  denser in the south. Here too, the brightly coloured cichlid fishes, mbuna, abound, making rocky island shores an open-air aquarium for snorkelers and scuba divers. Long and lithe, Lake Malawi was once known as the “calendar lake”, measuring 365 miles in length and 52 miles across at its widest point. Tropical Lake Malawi is the southernmost of the East African Rift Valley lakes. It is 560 km long, 40–70 km wide and 22,490 km2  in  area,  with  a  terrestrial  watershed of 75,300 km2 and a maximum depth of 700 m. It is a popular hot location with the cleanest beaches on Lake Malawi with its deep and crystal waters that boast a beautiful fish sanctuary and a delight to divers.

Read More About this Article:https://biomedgrid.com/pdf/AJBSR.MS.ID.000576.pdf

For more about: Journals on Biomedical Science :Biomed Grid

[muellerewald-blog]

Last updated on September 3rd, 2018 at 02:01 pm

I was so naive before my backpacking trip. I literally had no idea how many fun things to do in Africa there are besides a safari. And after living in Ethiopia for over 4 years, I’ve discovered even more.

Here’s 31 things to put on your Africa bucket list

1 Shark Diving

This is one of the things to do in Africa that was on my list before I ever came. And it did not disappoint. I dove in Hermanus,  South Africa known as “The Great White Shark Capital of the World.” It was freaking scary, but incredibly cool to be that close to sharks! I was in a cage… because ummm yeah they’re great whites. But other parts of South Africa let you dive without a cage around shark areas that attract less human-eating kinds.

Do you see how big the space between the bars is? The hardest park is keeping your hands from floating out… especially when the shark rams into the cage!

2 Wine Tasting

I had drank South African wine before my trip. But wine tasting in Stellenbosch was so much better! I’m usually against super touristy things… but the Cape Town Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is actually one of the cheapest ways to get there.

3 Surfing

40 African countries touch an ocean. Needless to say, you can surf almost anywhere. But Senegal, Morocco, and South Africa are known as some of the most popular spots.

You can also go sand surfing in Namibia and Egypt.

4 Diving

One of the most popular things to do in Africa is diving. I met so many backpackers who did it in South Africa, Mozambique, Zanzibar, and Lake Malawi. Besides getting to see really amazing marine life, it’s usually cheaper to dive (and get certified) in African countries.

5 Snorkeling

I went snorkeling in Mozambique and Zanzibar. Zanzibar was my favorite because for only $8 I swam with turtles in the Marine Sanctuary and fed them seaweed. It was amazing!

Swimming with turtles in Zanzibar

6 Gorilla Trekking

I did it in Uganda, but you can also do it in Rwanda (most expensive) or the DRC (least expensive– but sometimes closed due to conflict areas). My group got so close to them! There were a bunch of baby gorillas climbing the trees above us. Occasionally, the branches would break underneath them, and they’d come crashing down on the ground beside us.

You can also do chimp trekking. The difference is that the chimpanzees you can hear from far away. The gorillas are so quiet that you just pass through a bush, and all the sudden you are within a few feet of one.

Honestly it is a bit expensive. If you want to know how much it gorilla trekking cost me & if it’s worth it, check out my advice about travel splurges (I’m near the end of the article, but there is also great insight about if safari’s are worth the cost mentioned too).

7 Hiking

African countries offer so many incredible hiking adventures. I recommend doing it in Lesotho (because it’s the only country in the world to lie about 1000 meters in elevation and has lots of mountains) or Ethiopia (known as “the rooftop of Africa” with almost 70% of its country covered in mountains).

Or of course you could just go for the biggest mountain in all of Africa– Kili. My guide for Kilimanjaro has some great tips to prepare, stay safe, climbing gear, and how to actually make it to the top (because some people get sick before getting there

)

Tanzania is a great country to visit because you can climb Kili, go on a safari, and visit Zanzibar

8 Whale Shark Diving

I didn’t time my trip correctly so I missed whale shark season. But I did meet backpackers who saw them in Mozambique, Zanzibar, Madagascar, Djibouti, and Kenya.

9 Music Festivals

Africa has amazing music festivals. Some of them host local artists, others get singers from around the world. My favorite went I went to was HIFA in Zimbabwe.

10 Others Festivals

There are tons of other festivals in Africa to go to that include art, film, cultural, and more. See African Events for more details.

11 Run Your Heart Out

I think the best ones are the 2 oceans Marathon in South Africa or Ethiopian Great Run (That’s the largest road race in Africa. I’ve done it twice. It’s not a serious race, but it’s super fun and overwhelmingly huge!)

12 Climb Victoria Falls

I viewed them on the Zambia side, but you can also see them in Zimbabwe. They’re honestly amazing. I spent the whole day hiking around them, swimming at the top of them, and taking endless pictures of all the wildlife near them.

At certain times of the year (with lower water levels) you’re allowed to swim right before the falls drop. Photo Credit: irinaafrika.de

13 Experience Lake Malawi

This lake is so beautiful that even my backpacker friends from Canada and Finland (both countries known for beautiful lakes) said Lake Malawi was one of the best lakes in the world. There are islands inside the lake that you can explore too. (Rent a boat or try your luck getting there on a dugout canoe). Cape Maclear and Nkhata Bay are the most popular spots.

14 Sleep Next to Wild Animals

I slept in a tent inside Liwonde National Park (Liwonde Safari Camp is best/cheapest lodge in the area). It was incredible because hippos, elephants, warthogs, and more would come through the area. You can just lie on a hammock or chill out on an observation deck and get super close to all the animals.

15 Spice Tours

Zanzibar offers a really cool spice tour which is more fun than it sounds I promise. You can even see where the famous Chanel No. 5 perfume’s scent comes from.

16 Rasta Parties

I was not a big rasta fan before my trip. But African countries have lots of rastas (Did you know the movement has its roots in Ethiopia?). So I ended up at more than one party with Rastafarian music. One time I was dancing in between a Rastafarian and a Masai warrior.

17 Historical Spots

There are a lot of historical things to do in Africa. For example, while Rwanda is now an incredibly peaceful (and fun fact– one of the cleanest countries in the world), you can visit places like Hotel Rwanda.

There are also a lot of museums to visit. Most of them are pretty small. But they offer interesting things. For only 50 cents, The National Museum in Ethiopia gives you the chance to see Lucy which is oldest human ever discovered in the world.

18 White Water Rafting on the Nile

I rafted the Nile in Jinja, Uganda. It was really intense because many of the rapids are level 5 (which is the highest you can for sure safely go on). You also have to paddle hard to avoid the level 6 rapids (which are not safe or recommended to go down).

A few backpackers who are way more hardcore than me went down the rapids on a single person kayak that continually dunked them underneath the water.

I also played soccer at night with some of the kids in Uganda. So much fun! They were so sweet!

19 Drinking Beer

I really enjoyed trying beers from each country. I liked Nile Beer in Uganda, Tusker Lager in Kenya, and Kilimanjaro Beer in Tanzania the best.

(Or if you’re not into alcohol, a coffee ceremony in Ethiopia or a tea stall in Sudan are musts!)

20 Kiss a Giraffe

You can get super close (as in they might put their tongues in your mouth) to giraffes in Nairobi at the Giraffe Center. If you’re not on a backpacking budget, you can spend $500 ish to spend the night in Giraffe Manor.

21 Play with Baby Elephants

I visited the Elephant Orphanage in Kenya. It was so cute watching baby elephants play with soccer balls. One of them even untied my shoe laces with his trunk.

This is right before the caretakers put blankets on them, and gave them bottles. I was dying! So cute!

22 Explore Islands

There is an endless amount of islands to visit in African countries. I really like Lamu Island in Kenya. It’s famous because there are no cars allowed on the island. I got around by walking or donkey rides.

23 Ride an Ostrich

I rode an ostrich in Kenya (but you can also do it in South Africa). It’s so much scarier than I realized! Because essentially I was on top of giant, angry bird who can turn its long neck around and peck me at anytime. And if you get too close to the front of them, they’ve been known to front kick you and break ribs.

You can also go the more normal route and just ride a horse. Horseback riding in Africa is possible in every country.

and if you like horses or ostriches… you can ride a camel. This is how I saw the pyramids in Sudan.

24 Feed Hyenas (from your mouth!)

In Harar, Ethiopia you can go the outskirts of the town wall and meet a “hyena whisper.” It’s essentially a local guy who puts raw meat in your mouth and calls a wild hyena to take it out of your mouth! One of them actually jumped on my shoulders, and he was so heavy I fell to the ground and hit my face. Only in Africa would I come home with a paw print on my leather jacket that was from a hyena not from a pet dog.

Just dangling raw meat from my mouth beside a wild hyena

25 Trek Volcanoes

Ethiopia and the DRC offer 2 amazing active volcanoes to climb. The one in Ethiopia is actually known as the hottest spot in the world and has one of the few open lava lakes.

26 Sci-Fi Stuff

Just outside the Ethiopian volcano, has plains of salt and other elements that are so out of earth looking that sci-fi movies are being filmed there.

Can you seriously believe this place is real? Danakil Depression seriously looks like a weird planet.

27 Bungee Jumping

There are some huge heights to jump off both in South Africa and Victoria Falls.

28 Walking Safari

Some parks like Liwonde and Arusha offer walking safaris. It’s really cool because you’re literally walking through safari areas on foot. This also makes it slightly more adrenaline rushing. I did it in both places. The scariest was Liwonde because we were crossing barefoot through a river while being told by our super high guide to, “Look out for the crocs!”

29 Pyramids

I visited Pyramids in Egypt and Sudan. Egypt’s are bigger and more famous. But Sudan’s “Forgotten Pyramids” are much less touristy. I was the only visitor that day (on average they only get one per day), and I literally felt transported back into time.

I spent extra $$ to climb inside one of the pyramids, and it’s totally worth it!

30 Markets

Markets are really fun and interesting experiences. They offer so many exotic things to look at and try. The ones in Egypt, Morocco, and Ethiopia are most famous.

31 Local Celebrity

I actually took a lead role in an Ethiopian movie. When it came out in theaters, there were giant life size posters of me all around town. It’s been almost 2 years, and I still get recognized and asked for photographs. If you also want to act, you can contact any local movie producer. They’re always looking for a foreigner to put in their film. And depending how big your part is, you can even get paid like I did.

  Look at the middle poster… can you see me? These were everywhere! On buildings, outside theaters, on the side of the road. Ha, I seriously felt very famous.

Out of all of these things to do in Africa, which ones do you want to do most? And which one will you definitely not want to do?? Tell me in a comment below!

PS- If the only reason you’re not going on a safari is because of the cost, know that there are ways to have a cheap African safari 

  The post 31 Things to Do in Africa (besides a safari) that are Crazy Awesome appeared first on Backpacking Africa for Beginners.

[rohoyachui]

6 Facts about Lake Malawi Will Make You Go Get Your Snorkel Gear

6 Facts about Lake Malawi Will Make You Go Get Your Snorkel Gear

Lake Malawi is an incredibly gorgeous place unlike anywhere else on Earth. The stunning lake is home to hundreds of cichlid species, picturesque still waters and a community of friendly locals eager to warmly greet new visitors. Explaining all that makes Lake Malawi unique and worth visiting on a Malawi safari tour could take a lifetime, so here is a smattering of the six most interesting facts…

[splashrollstumble]

Africa Cycle Tour – Malawi

We started our Malawi cycle leg in Lilongwe, having come across by bus from Chipata on the Zambian side. On reflection, we should have just cycled, as the bus took even longer than cycling would have. As usual in Africa, everything takes forever and we had to wait for about three hours at the border for the security guards to check the vehicle. It was dark by the time we were dropped off at Lilongwe bus depot, so we hassled to get our stuff out the bus while taxi drivers constantly haggled us. Getting luggage on and off these buses is a notoriously bad way to get your stuff stolen – and it’s twice as likely when it’s dark and you also have a bike to worry about.

Fortunately, we sorted everything, put our lights and head torches on and made our way towards a nearby hostel and campsite. We arrived safely at the campsite and checked in before setting up our tents and then cooking a quick dinner. There weren’t really any other guests and the hostel didn’t even have wifi so, with little else to do, we got to bed early.

Lilongwe to Salima

I awoke early and went to draw some cash so we could pay our bill while Romi made coffee. Then we got going as soon as we could, knowing there was a fair amount of uphill to Salima. We stopped on the way at an Airtel shop to buy simcards and mobile data which turned into a long nightmare of a mission. After the rigorous process of registering our sims against our passports, we tried to buy data but the Airtel guy was busy so we went to a shop next door where they only had airtime vouchers for 500 kwacha. I needed to buy a 6GB data package which cost 10,000 kwacha and I wasn’t going to individually scratch and enter 20 different codes.

We decided to get some food and wait until the Airtel guy was available. Eventually, we got sorted but by now it was already quite late and we were hoping to get to Chipoka, the town just after Salima where the ferry stopped, to see if we could catch it the following day to Monkey Bay. That meant we would need to do about 120 kms.

We pushed on through the day and luckily had good weather – no rain but enough clouds that it wasn’t hot. By mid-afternoon, we reached the escarpment overlooking Lake Malawi and started on the downhill towards Salima. After talking to some other ‘mzungus’ at a gas station we decided we could get a cheap guesthouse here and hopefully make it to Chipoka for the ferry in the morning. We stopped at a little place that agreed to let us camp for cheap under the cover of its outdoor conference area.

Salima to Monkey Bay

In the morning we set off early and soon bumped into two Swiss cyclists coming in the opposite direction. Like us, they too were members of the Cairo to Cape cycle Whatsapp group and we stopped to chat for a while. They were also heading north but along the coastal road, while we planned to take the ferry from Monkey Bay just for the experience of it. We exchanged contacts and hoped to meet up again somewhere further along the road.

Arriving at the port we were quickly informed that the ferry no longer departs from there and even if it did we would have missed it. That meant we would have to cycle the long route around to Monkey Bay – a total of 135 kms if we wanted to arrive today. Our friends Jeff and Ash from Zambia were expecting us at Monkey Bay and were leaving on the morning ferry so we needed to make it if we were to see them.

We put our heads down and pushed on hard – so hard that I missed a crucial turnoff and we ended up going 5 kms in the wrong direction! Now our daily total would have to be 145 kms! I quickly discovered why I missed the turnoff – despite being marked as a national road on Google Maps it was actually just an unmarked dirt road. We had no choice but to follow it into the bushes and it turned out to be quite a fun ride although a bit bumpy at times. We weaved through some towns with bemused villagers until eventually reconnecting with a tarred road.

Eventually, after our longest and hardest day in the saddle so far, we arrived at Monkey Bay as the sun was setting. We met Ash and Jeff at a lovely, secluded beach backpackers called Mufasa Eco Lodge and after a quick beer, I enjoyed my first swim in Lake Malawi. That night we all had an expensive but very decent dinner with the other guests and then joined some locals playing bongo drums around a beach fire.

Two weeks of relaxing

Ash and Jeff decided to delay their boat trip for another week so we all went to the nearby beach resort of Cape McClear and spent a week relaxing there. It’s a beautiful location for scuba diving and snorkeling, although we spent most of the time eating, drinking and playing the local African board game Bawo.

Eventually, it was time to catch the ferry which we initially intended to take to Nkhotakota but the hostel owners at Mufasa explained there is no jetty at Nkhotakota. This means we would have to go to shore by a small boat and walk through the water with all our luggage and bikes – an improbable feat. We decided instead to go all the way to the next stop, Nkhata Bay, with Ash and Jeff.

Click to view slideshow.

The ferry took two days and one night which is just about enough time to enjoy it without getting bored. To save money we slept on the deck but Ash and Jeff kindly let us keep our valuables in their room. In Nkhata Bay we spent another week off the bikes exploring the surrounding area and hanging out with other travelers.

Click to view slideshow.

Nkhata Bay to Mzuzu

Our extended holiday finally had to come to an end, so we bid our friends farewell and begun the long cycle inland up the escarpment to Mzuzu. This was the steepest incline I had attempted with my six gear bicycle and it proved a bit too much for it in places. For the first time on the trip, I was forced to get off and push the bike uphill.

In the end, it took us about seven hours to cover the short 50 kms up to Mzuzu and we arrived hot and exhausted at a rather fancy campsite someone had recommended. The cost of camping itself wasn’t expensive but the cost of food and drink was similar to that of a fancy European restaurant. We could have explored somewhere nearby instead but we were too tired and ended up just having their cheapest pasta dish.

Mzuzu to Rhumphi

After leaving Mzuzu the steep hills died out a bit and we got to enjoy some winding, curving roads into the mountains of northern Malawi. The first stop along the route was a tiny village called Rumphi that only had one small campsite and very little else but it was in a beautiful valley. Although it was early and we had only done a short distance we decided to stop for the day and relax here. I think their highly recommended Italian style pizza had a big influence on that decision.

I spent most of the afternoon working and then in the evening lightning and thunder crashed across the sky as the heavens opened up and poured down upon us. Fortunately, our tents were under a small wooden cover because I assume this was a minor off-shoot of the cyclone that had ravaged the southeast of Malawi recently.

Rumphi to Livingstonia

By sunrise, the rain had fortunately died down, so we had a quick coffee, packed up our wet tents and got going. The road that day followed a winding stream that took us along an exceptionally beautiful route through a long valley towards Livingstonia. We hoped to take a different, dirt road up to Livingstonia from the south but the rains the night before meant it would surely be washed out.

Instead, we stuck on the tar road that went down to the coast and decided to see if we could get a lift up to Livingstonia from there. The Swiss cyclists from before had been in touch and informed us that the ride down the north road from Livingstonia is quite enjoyable but riding up would be impossible. For this reason, we decided to take our bikes up on the back of a truck. This turned out to be a rather disastrous mission, with about five guys arguing about how to tie Romain’s bike on the back. Eventually, we got going but the bike fell off twice on-route before they eventually managed to attach it successfully.

After a very long and bumpy ride, they dropped us at the top of a long dirt path that led down to Lukwe Lodge which the Swiss had recommended. On arrival we discovered it to be a very expensive boutique lodge and not really a backpacker campsite at all. Most of the food and drink on offer was twice the usual price we were accustomed to but luckily the camping cost wasn’t too extreme. Since we had our own food and were now all the way down the hill we decided to stay. That night we saw an incredible lightning storm over Lake Malawi.

Livingstonia and Mushroom Farm

The following day I joined three Dutch girls on their drive up to Livingstonia town so I could get phone signal and do some work. They explored the local markets while I finished two articles and then we headed back down to Lukwe. As we had decided to take a day off and chill here, I decided to go visit the Mushroom Farm backpackers down the road. It’s not actually a mushroom farm and doesn’t appear to have any mushrooms so I don’t know where the name came from but it made good food and was far cheaper than Lukwe.

As a result, I chose to move for our second night to Mushroom Farm but Romain was not feeling motivated to pack up the tent and do the long journey over. After visiting some nearby waterfalls I packed up and moved over. Unfortunately, my decision turned out to be a bad one as Mushroom Farm has no fridge to keep the beer cold. For this year I would strongly advise against staying there even though Lukwe is much more expensive.

Downhill to Hakuna Matata

In the morning we reconvened at Mushroom Farm and had some coffee and breakfast before starting the cycle down the bumpy dirt road to the coast. It turned out to be somewhat easier than expected, although we did have to take it quite slow. The views were spectacular though and I highly recommend it if you are cycling in the area.

Back at the bottom we bumped into an Isreali couple we had met in Monkey Bay and they told us they were staying at a nearby campsite called Hakuna Matata. We followed them there and decided to spend the night, although they were leaving that evening to head up to Livingstonia. Still, we spent a really nice afternoon chilling together and it was one of my favourite times of the trip.

FloJa Campsite

We were up early and after some breakfast and a chat with Willy, the campsite owner and a fellow South African, we were back on the road. Although we could have cycled all the way to the Tanzanian border today, we still had a few days on our visas so we didn’t rush. Instead, we stopped around lunchtime at a very nice campsite called FloJa which is run by a Dutch couple.

We chilled the afternoon and then in the evening bought some fish from a local fisherman and some vegetables from the campsite owners. Then I threw together a fire from some dry branches lying around and we had a makeshift fish braai with salad for dinner.

To the Tanzania border

Finally, it was time to say our sad farewells to Malawi and head into Tanzania. The day was quite long but fairly quiet and uneventful and we arrived at the border post around 4pm. We didn’t have any hassles this time and got through in about 15 minutes.

from WordPress http://bit.ly/2uN4rEi via IFTTT