We found it quite daunting but exciting, especially as the departure date drew closer, we were like two kids going to our first birthday party.

 

Fortunately we were that busy preparing and attempting to finalise everything that we really did not dwell too much on what was in store for us.

 

The feeling of in trepidation, anticipation and uncertainty is hard to describe, but once we were on the boat we were Africa bound.

 

Europe was very straight forward as we expected, just cold. The Baltic States were also no problem, once into Turkey the real adventure started as we were now in the Middle East.

 

Our fears for Syria and Jordan were proved totally unfounded. We do not know a place on this earth where you could meet nicer people. All we ever read about them was bad, and the people just do not deserve it as the welcome we received was second to none.

 

Moving on to Egypt, the Sini is lovely and the White Desert is absolutely unbelievable. The tourist police are a total pain in the rear and mean you no harm but the rest of Egypt, not for us.

 

Sudan, what a place (assuming you survive the ferry across Lake Nasser and the hotel at Wadi Halfa) it is fantastic!! As all the people. Following the Nile south has left memories for a life time. One of the most memorable parts of the whole trip partly due to the fantastic places we camped, but mostly due to our travelling companions. One main point, YOUR CARDS WONT WORK, TAKE LOTS OF US $.

 

Ethiopia, another story. The country is beautiful but, most people seem to think you have come to give them something. (Time to stop the handouts maybe) Shame really, it could be such a nice place and earn a fortune from tourism. When you stop you will be surrounded. But they will only watch you. If you see children at the side of the road wave, if they are waving they aren’t throwing stones at your truck.

 

Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Three very similar countries, full of wild life, (in exceedingly over priced game parks) bad roads, and seem to take as much as they can from the tourists. Other countries are far better value.

 

Malawi. Now this is a different story. Friendly people, beautiful country, unbelievable lake. Slightly more expensive for food and fuel but other wise prices are reasonable for all. They don’t call it the smiling nation for nothing.

 

Zambia. Game parks, wildlife (at more sensible prices) friendly people, and much more westernised than some previous countries. ( If you do go you must go to Flat Dogs by South Liangi game reserve) see the Zambia section for the reason why if you have not already read it.

 

Botswana. Chobi, Meremi and the Kalahari game parks are once more at sensible prices but watch out for the camping charges on the private sites. Roads in the parks change from good to you had better know what you are doing. But excellent value. Francistown, Maun (pronounced Maaoon) nice, roads are generally good.

Namibia. Super place, long gravel roads, and very few people who are generally very nice. Etosha, once more, more of a reasonable price. Great climate, Swakomund is an oasis in the middle of a desert. Skeleton coast, you see where the name comes from. Lots to see, lots to do.

 

South Africa. What a place. Apart from the physical size you can spend 5 years and not see the half of it. Good roads, plenty of variety to suit everyone. Do allow as much time as you can spare.

 

In conclusion, don’t be put off by other people fears and worries. Research your route, check with other travellers web sites.     DO WHAT YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH.

 

We had very little trouble and where we expected trouble, Syria, Jordon, Sudan. You could not meet nicer people. Take your time, but most of all take a good sense of humour, smile at check points.  Things are going to go wrong, fact of life. Don’t get all upset and spoil your day, take it in your stride and deal with it, fix it and move on. The travelling community is huge and they will always help, you are never alone for long.