Off-Track Backpacking » South Africa

Traveling in Africa as a Solo Female Backpacker

Tanya — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 06:14:54 +0000

Ok everyone. I need some help so maybe some of you backpackers who traveled independently to Africa can provide some! After traveling to Europe, Asia, Central and South America, I’m ready to hit Africa. The only place I’ve been on the continent so far is Morocco (which I loved!) but now, I’m looking for slightly more adventure and safaris (yes, I’m an addict)! After starting 2010 on Copacabana in Rio, I’m looking to spend another New Year’s Eve abroad. I’m thinking of traveling to either Tanzania or South Africa but not sure which place to pick. New Year’s Eve in Cape Town or on the beach in Zanzibar. Difficult choice… So as a solo and independant female backpacker, and first real African experience, where should I go? Do keep in mind that I’m not a fan of organized tours and I really want to avoid taking one even though it’ll be my first time backpacking in East/South Africa.

Tanzania

So what’s so special about Tanzania other than climbing the Kilimanjaro? Hmm… white-sand beaches in Zanzibar, the preserved lake Tankayika, visiting banana trees and rice fields in Pemba and safaris from Arusha. Bus seems to be the preferred transportation mode for getting around the country. Overall, backpackers seem to love the place and doesn’t sound like it’s too dangerous. Would this be a good destination for a 3-week vacation for a solo female backpacker?

South Africa

One of the gems of Africa, South Africa is probably more a of a hip place to visit. With a vibrant city such as Cape Town, National parks like Kruger that offer various safari tours and Dragensberg mountain to be hiked, it’s only normal that’s South Africa is a backpacker’s heaven destination! All sorts of activities can be considered when traveling in SA, from horseback riding, hiking, white water rafting to bunjy jumping. In order words, it’s a adventure paradise for us crazy backpackers! After doing some research, roads also seem to be in good condition and travel time between places isn’t so bad.

So what African destination should I opt for? Any solo backpackers who traveled to South Africa have some advice for me ?

When I get older, I will be stronger, They’ll call me freedom, Just like Wavin’ Flag

Tanya — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 07:35:08 +0000

I’m completely obsessed with this song! There are a few versions of it but I’ll let you listen to the World Cup version and the second one is a Canadian tribute to Haiti. They are my two favorite. Enjoy!

Accommodations In South Africa During The FIFA 2010 World Cup

naradb — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 06:10:14 +0000

With just a few months to go, the games will begin!!! The kick-off at the FIFA 2010 World Cup brings together millions of screaming, cheering fans to watch their favorite team win. Now if you are one of those lucky people that will be watching a game, I do hope you have your accommodation booked because as of now numerous hotels are fully booked. However if you are making this trip a real vacation, take a look at a few of these resorts.

Many of the resorts are outside of the major cities but most of these resorts will have full access to drive you in and out of Cape Town’s Green Point Stadium. So far the best resort to look for is among a group called Beekman, which is located right on the Atlantic and featuring the perfect beach location and only 30 min drive to the centre of all the chaotic fun. Another great resort is located near Johannesburg’s soccer city Stadium, called Waterberg Game Park. It is set in a beautiful 750-hectare game park, surrounded by wildlife, and the perfect opportunity to enjoy luxurious five star amenities. Now if you are looking for something in a reasonable price range, check out accommodations such as three star Sunshine Bay Beach Club in surfer’s paradise of Jeffrey’s Bay. This hotel is located near Port Elizabeth. So if you are an advocated surfer, this would be the perfect spot of you.

For those backpackers who will be adventuring off to South Africa during the month of June, check out these Hostels!

Cape Town Backpackers is located in the heart of what’s happening in Cape Town. It is know to be surrounded by the hip shopping area, café district and where the nightlife takes off. This hostel offers dorms to en suites, including a funky bar, breakfast, travel desk, and a lovely courtyard to relax in. Of course, this hostel also offers Internet, airport transfers, 24-hour service. I say what else can you ask for from a hostel that will only charge you a max of 10 euros a night! Not bad!

The backpack & Africa Travel Centre is another hostel to keep in mind, since the price ranges from 10- 29 euros a night. In 2008 this hostel was known for the best hostel in South Africa, so you can’t go wrong here. With everything you need, from Internet to a swimming pool, this is a must see hostel. Now not only is there everything you need here, but you can also volunteer a night out and help young children play soccer, math, grammar, and even swim.

Only walking distance from the train station, Cat and Moose Backpackers Lodge is located in the heart of historical sites. Plus a 24-hour convenient store is near, including a few amazing bars, and restaurants. This hostel offer bicycle rental, swimming pool, BBQ area and much more. As usual the price is considerable cheap for what you get!

Now these are only a few places to consider when booking your accommodations in South Africa for the WORLD CUP!!!

South Africa, World Cup 2010

naradb — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 07:11:22 +0000

World Cup is quickly approaching and are you ready to hit up an adventure over to South Africa and get a game in that budget of yours? Well, back in the day I was planning this big trip with a few people to backpack South Africa and to see at least one game for the World Cup 2010. However, life got a little busy for a few including me and now no one can make that trip, but as for I it is still on that list somewhere. Starting in June the games being and Cape Town will be swamped with tourists and Soccer (Football) lovers. Yet, many social medias are now starting to talk about how unsafe it really is to travel over to Cape Town and watch the FIFA World Cup. Many concerns are about how high the crime levels are and how many tourists need to be cautions. So all this negative feedback can be a little disturbing, but does that stop you from seeing one of the most beautiful destinations in the world and a FIFA game? Well for me it does put a little warning in my head, but that does for any country. It really comes down to making sure you have adequate travel insurance, being aware of the local laws, cultural differences, and making smart decisions. It you do a little research before you go to scope out the main attractions, where the tourists stay, and where to eat. I say you should be okay if you watch your back and be wise about where to site see. Plus why would you want to miss out in seeing a FIFA game due to it being said to be a dangerous city, well I believe every city can be dangerous if you aren’t careful enough.