Africa

Africa, the world's second largest continent, is the proverbial birthplace of civilization. Despite the devastation so often flaunted in the media, the African continent offers the adventurous traveler abundant riches, from virtually unparalleled cultural and ethnographic diversity to a dazzling spectrum of wildlife and ecology, from geological extremes to cultural anomalies and splendors. East Africa remains the most visited region with it's enchanting scenery; abundant wildlife and unrivaled game parks; and thriving ancient cultures like the Masai and Samburu. As well, vacationers and explorers perennially gravitate to the Arab Berber countries of North Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia. Highlights include Cairo's monolithic pyramids, Luxor's legendary valley of Kings, Marrakesh, Casablanca, Dakar and Timbuktu. Recently South Africa has experienced a resurgence in popularity due to post-apartheid political/social improvements and the convenience of travel to and within the country. Despite political unrest in West Africa, adventurous travelers are to the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo and Benin. Although risks must be carefully assessed there are cultural rewards in straying from the tourist pack, and Central Africa, likewise plagued with violence and instability, boasts increasingly popular Rwanda. Africa remains a fascinating destination for discovering exotic, authentic cultures, tackling ambitious jungle and savannah safaris and witnessing natural wonders like Victoria Falls and the vast Sahara desert.