Cultural Holidays in Africa

Cultural Holidays in Africa

Africa is where the first humans evolved! As well as outstanding natural beauty and amazing wildlife, the continent has a strong cultural heritage.

One of Africa’s greatest charms is its wonderful people. Many diverse ethnic groups lead semi-nomadic lifestyles, moving with the seasons to find food such as game animals and plants, as well as water. Several camps that we recommend offer the opportunity for you to spend time with the tribes to learn more about their fascinating traditions. We avoid going to places where there is staged authenticity, where people perform dances for money. This is not what we believe in and we want to ensure that a visit will be beneficial both to you and to your hosts, preserving the nomadic culture for future generations.

Our top destinations for a cultural safari:

1. Tanzania

A visit to East Africa provides an opportunity to check out the range of cultures and traditions of this region’s peoples. There is an impressive fossil record, telling the stories of all the peoples who have lived here. Tanzania offers a real insight into the various cultures, backgrounds, and religions. The country contains some 130 different tribes, most with their own traditions, culture, and language or dialect.

There is a big Arab influence on Zanzibar, which is shown by the diversity of the population, a mix of Shirazi (from Persia), Arabs, Comorians (from the Comoros Islands), and Bantu from the mainland. Stone Town is the ancient and cultural heart of Zanzibar. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is immersed in history! You can explore the winding labyrinth of narrow alleys leading to colourful bazaars, passing by many mosques and grand Arab houses with their intricately carved and brass-studded wooden doors. An amazing assortment of spices is available on the island, and the tasty cuisine reflects all the cultural influences.

2. Kenya

Heartland of the Maasai warrior, Kenya has a history and culture that stretches for centuries back through time. Gazing across the Maasai Mara National Reserve’s vast and dramatic savannas, visitors are amazed by the countless herds of cattle and goats. Samburu National Reserve offers a rich diversity of habitats that encompass montane forests and acacia grasslands. Home to the semi-nomadic Samburu, closely related to the Maasai, this is an area that provides some spectacular safari encounters, as the waters of the Ewaso Nyiro River attract a steady stream of animals to its lush banks.

Exploring these fascinating cultures helps to give you a true understanding of these precious places, as well as of the challenges that the bush people face.