Tanzania or South Africa? Traveling with 70-year old parents
Apr 17th, 2013, 01:15 AM
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Tanzania or South Africa? Traveling with 70-year old parents
Hi, my husband and I are planning to take my parents (my dad's 70 and my mom's 68) on a 10-12 day trip to Africa and I'm confused as to the best place to go. My parents are relatively fit, and can do some fair amount of walking and sightseeing. Our priority of course is to see the animals, and my mom would love to take photos. I know they also prefer to stay in nice, luxury tented camps/hotels. Not necessarily the most expensive ones, just a nice one with amenities that will make it comfortable for old folks to stay in.
I know my parents find it quite taxing to keep moving to too many accommodations, so if we could just have 1 or max of 2 hotels to move around to, that would be great. My dad has been wanting to see the Serengeti but my mom prefers Victoria Falls. Ack. They have now left it up to me to choose. I personally prefer Tanzania hehe but I also want them to go where it's most comfortable for grandparents. Going to both countries is out of the question. Short of tossing a coin, is there any way to decide this? If you have any inputs, fellow Fodorites, please do kindly share. Thanks!
I know my parents find it quite taxing to keep moving to too many accommodations, so if we could just have 1 or max of 2 hotels to move around to, that would be great. My dad has been wanting to see the Serengeti but my mom prefers Victoria Falls. Ack. They have now left it up to me to choose. I personally prefer Tanzania hehe but I also want them to go where it's most comfortable for grandparents. Going to both countries is out of the question. Short of tossing a coin, is there any way to decide this? If you have any inputs, fellow Fodorites, please do kindly share. Thanks!
Apr 17th, 2013, 05:16 AM
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I think your parents would be equally comfortable in either location. Lots of options for nice luxury tented camps in both locations. Nothing more taxing than getting in and out of the safari vehicle in either location. Victoria Falls are beautiful, but you'll only spend a couple of hours seeing the falls, so it's not a destination by itself (unless you spend a couple of days doing other things like bungee jumping over the river!!). My personal preference is for Tanzania - more of the classic safari experience and scenery. The time of year you go may also dictate where you want to go within Tanzania - ie to catch the migration if possible.
Apr 19th, 2013, 05:28 PM
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70 year olds make up a very sizable percentage of African visitors. Accommodations booked through any reputable source will be fine for your parents and for you whether it's Tanzania or Southern Africa.
Would a second visit to Africa be possible for your parents so whoever loses out could go to their desired destination next time?
What time of year are you traveling? That could sway it one way or the other.
Would your mother be happy with a different waterfall so she could forgo Vic Falls? Can you get your dad to state why he wants to visit Serengeti because maybe his goals could be met in Southern Africa?
Were you hoping to do some driving yourselves? That would lean towards South Africa and Vic Falls.
Can you review some trip reports from various locations together to see if a group decision can be made?
Would a second visit to Africa be possible for your parents so whoever loses out could go to their desired destination next time?
What time of year are you traveling? That could sway it one way or the other.
Would your mother be happy with a different waterfall so she could forgo Vic Falls? Can you get your dad to state why he wants to visit Serengeti because maybe his goals could be met in Southern Africa?
Were you hoping to do some driving yourselves? That would lean towards South Africa and Vic Falls.
Can you review some trip reports from various locations together to see if a group decision can be made?
Apr 20th, 2013, 02:32 AM
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I think this is the key "I know my parents find it quite taxing to keep moving to too many accommodations".
I have been on a few safaris with my parents, and the one thing I know to avoid is long travel days, especially long road journeys. They're also not a fan of all day game drives, and like their down time in the middle of the day. The comfort of the accommodation hasn't been an issue- they've been fine with bush camps with bucket showers although they did complain a bit about poor lighting in camps with no electric lighting in rooms.
If your parents are like mine, then I would avoid the Northern Circuit of Tanzania- typical itineraries seem to include many short stops and long drives. Of course there's nothing to stop you doing it differently- eg flying in and having fewer longer stops, but that might cost quite a bit more.
The Southern Circuit of Tanzania might suit them better. You could just do 2 stops, Selous and Ruaha. Both have enough to see that you could easily spend up to a week in each.
If your mother wants to visit Vic Falls there are a number of options- South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe. My parents have enjoyed Botswana and Zambia. But I've found the key is to keep the time on the road to a minimum, so preferably fly between areas, and to have a minimum of 3 nights in each place. That could be achieved in any of those countries.
I have been on a few safaris with my parents, and the one thing I know to avoid is long travel days, especially long road journeys. They're also not a fan of all day game drives, and like their down time in the middle of the day. The comfort of the accommodation hasn't been an issue- they've been fine with bush camps with bucket showers although they did complain a bit about poor lighting in camps with no electric lighting in rooms.
If your parents are like mine, then I would avoid the Northern Circuit of Tanzania- typical itineraries seem to include many short stops and long drives. Of course there's nothing to stop you doing it differently- eg flying in and having fewer longer stops, but that might cost quite a bit more.
The Southern Circuit of Tanzania might suit them better. You could just do 2 stops, Selous and Ruaha. Both have enough to see that you could easily spend up to a week in each.
If your mother wants to visit Vic Falls there are a number of options- South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe. My parents have enjoyed Botswana and Zambia. But I've found the key is to keep the time on the road to a minimum, so preferably fly between areas, and to have a minimum of 3 nights in each place. That could be achieved in any of those countries.
Apr 20th, 2013, 11:39 AM
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>> for old folks <<
Really? Believe you mean mature adults, when a greater number of these 'folks' are traveling as they have the time and money.
When traveling? Month? Can be the determining factor for best game viewing. And prices are seasonal.
When it comes to Victoria Falls, while nice you don't need more than 2/hrs to view and then what? Bungee jumping off the bridge? And depending on time of year, if the Falls are in full-flow, there's not much you can see let alone take photos from under your heavy rain gear provided. Yes, there is some fascination about these, but it's only water and if you do choose South Africa, a visit to the Falls is a rather expensive side trip for maybe 2/ns - flight costs, 2/hr flying each way (besides the 2.5/hrs prior for check-in/security both flights), Zimbabwe Visa, Yellow Fever inoc and proof of same for re-entry to South Africa.
Serengeti and the other northern circuit parks in Tanzania are great year-round, but can incur some long drives. However, you can easily fly-in/ rather than drive (which cost isn't always more expensive), or do some shorter drives between other areas. And if your folks would prefer shorter game drives, there's no law they or anyone for that matter, has to stay out all day; can extend # of days at any one place. Why it's called a 'private' safari' designed as you wish for 'which area/park' 'how many days at each' 'choice of lodge/camps (many do have electricity)' 'means of transport - drive or fly or combo.'
Instead of just tossing a coin, maybe a bit more research to determine which country/ies will provide the best overall experience for the entire family!
Day 1 - Arv. JRO/Tanzania; met/transfer to Arusha - o/n
Day 2 - Arusha - o/n
Day 3 - Drive or fly to Tarangire - o/n
Days 4 & 5 - Tarangire - o/n
Day 6 - Drive or fly to Ngorongoro (if fly, closest airstrip is at Lk. Manyara) - o/n
Day 7 - Ngorongoro - o/n
Day 8 - Fly to Serengeti - o/n
Days 9, 10 & 11 - Serengeti - o/n
Day 12 - Fly to Arusha; dayroom till transfer to JRO and homeward flight.
Really? Believe you mean mature adults, when a greater number of these 'folks' are traveling as they have the time and money.
When traveling? Month? Can be the determining factor for best game viewing. And prices are seasonal.
When it comes to Victoria Falls, while nice you don't need more than 2/hrs to view and then what? Bungee jumping off the bridge? And depending on time of year, if the Falls are in full-flow, there's not much you can see let alone take photos from under your heavy rain gear provided. Yes, there is some fascination about these, but it's only water and if you do choose South Africa, a visit to the Falls is a rather expensive side trip for maybe 2/ns - flight costs, 2/hr flying each way (besides the 2.5/hrs prior for check-in/security both flights), Zimbabwe Visa, Yellow Fever inoc and proof of same for re-entry to South Africa.
Serengeti and the other northern circuit parks in Tanzania are great year-round, but can incur some long drives. However, you can easily fly-in/ rather than drive (which cost isn't always more expensive), or do some shorter drives between other areas. And if your folks would prefer shorter game drives, there's no law they or anyone for that matter, has to stay out all day; can extend # of days at any one place. Why it's called a 'private' safari' designed as you wish for 'which area/park' 'how many days at each' 'choice of lodge/camps (many do have electricity)' 'means of transport - drive or fly or combo.'
Instead of just tossing a coin, maybe a bit more research to determine which country/ies will provide the best overall experience for the entire family!
Day 1 - Arv. JRO/Tanzania; met/transfer to Arusha - o/n
Day 2 - Arusha - o/n
Day 3 - Drive or fly to Tarangire - o/n
Days 4 & 5 - Tarangire - o/n
Day 6 - Drive or fly to Ngorongoro (if fly, closest airstrip is at Lk. Manyara) - o/n
Day 7 - Ngorongoro - o/n
Day 8 - Fly to Serengeti - o/n
Days 9, 10 & 11 - Serengeti - o/n
Day 12 - Fly to Arusha; dayroom till transfer to JRO and homeward flight.
Apr 20th, 2013, 05:33 PM
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We're 2 -70 year old wrinklies and we are escorting our 4 wussy adult children to Kenya and Tanzania. Not sure where they think they are going as they all say they wouldn't attempt it if not with us - take that ! you young things!!
We lived in Nairobi in 50's and 60's and know the power of negative media in North America first hand. After the Boston and Texas disasters how can people say " isn't it dangerous to go to 'Africa'?
We lived in Nairobi in 50's and 60's and know the power of negative media in North America first hand. After the Boston and Texas disasters how can people say " isn't it dangerous to go to 'Africa'?
Apr 22nd, 2013, 03:14 PM
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I agree with StokeyGirl. Souther Tanzania would be wonderful. I completely agree with the idea of staying put and not moving about too much......and NOT because I am old. Age has little to do with it. (I do take exception with your terms "old folks". We are headed to Africa for the third time and doing just fine.) But back to your trip.....
Read my trip report on Southern Tanzania - Ruaha and Selous. It might be just the place. We sure loved it.
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...and-selous.cfm
Read my trip report on Southern Tanzania - Ruaha and Selous. It might be just the place. We sure loved it.
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...and-selous.cfm
May 5th, 2013, 05:15 PM
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Hi,
I guess I am an "old folk" because I am over 70 and leaving Wed for our 2nd safari. If you are thinkiking South Africa, a trip to Sabi Sands and up to Phinda with &Beyond might work. They helped with our trip this time and we wre going for 2 weeks. They often have a stay 4 days and pay for 3 deal and you add the total and divide by 4. So, we will be there 12 nights and pay for 9., The camps look lovely and we fly between camps. I mention Phinda which is their reserve because it is so close to the Indian Ocean and beach activities. There are also some historical.areas close by. You don't have to do both drives each day, and can choose your downtime. I am not a fan of Vic Falls. We went last trip, and while they are lovely, 2 hours does it. And, vendors and hustlers are very aggressive there. Finally, I am a big fan of &Beyond because of their strong conservation record and the great agent we have this time.
No matter where you go, you will have an amazing journey. Best wishes!
I guess I am an "old folk" because I am over 70 and leaving Wed for our 2nd safari. If you are thinkiking South Africa, a trip to Sabi Sands and up to Phinda with &Beyond might work. They helped with our trip this time and we wre going for 2 weeks. They often have a stay 4 days and pay for 3 deal and you add the total and divide by 4. So, we will be there 12 nights and pay for 9., The camps look lovely and we fly between camps. I mention Phinda which is their reserve because it is so close to the Indian Ocean and beach activities. There are also some historical.areas close by. You don't have to do both drives each day, and can choose your downtime. I am not a fan of Vic Falls. We went last trip, and while they are lovely, 2 hours does it. And, vendors and hustlers are very aggressive there. Finally, I am a big fan of &Beyond because of their strong conservation record and the great agent we have this time.
No matter where you go, you will have an amazing journey. Best wishes!
May 11th, 2013, 02:52 AM
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Question for Mia - you have mentioned 2 countries (South Africa and Tanzania) and one natural wonder on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. So unless you choose to safari in either Zambia or Zimbabwe visiting Vic Falls will be a long flight from your other selected locations.
The falls are magnificent but totally seasonal - I have seen them bone dry in Oct (a cliff face with only Devils Cataract flowing) and in full flood after the rainy season when the mists are so heavy you get drenched and cant see the falls. So views will depend on the time you go. There are some lovely lodges on the Zimbabwe side that will provide the full game viewing experience and if located on the Zambezi River you'll have wonderful views and sunset boat rides. Elephant Hills even has a golf course that the warthogs and baboons regularly dig up!
If it is to be Tanzania or South Africa and a tented lodge the your choice is totally dependent on which lodge takes your fancy as most of the provide outstanding service and are carefully located for best game viewing. Whatever you do though, do not entertain the thought of spending good valuable holiday time in either Dar es Salam or Johannesburg - the are both large, ugly, dangerous cities.
Tanzania - the Southern circuit is best but that then excludes the Serengeti for your dad. I'm not a great fan of the Serengeti at all but then I have been to at least 25 safari locations throughout Southern and Eastern Africa - your first safari experience will be magical no matter where you go.
South Africa - the previous suggestion of the Kruger Park area is a good one (Pindar and Sabi Sands) wonderful lodges, great service and tons of game. If you do South Africa please consider a 2 centre vacation - Kruger Park and Cape Town (safari and sea) - you'll have memories for a lifetime then.
The falls are magnificent but totally seasonal - I have seen them bone dry in Oct (a cliff face with only Devils Cataract flowing) and in full flood after the rainy season when the mists are so heavy you get drenched and cant see the falls. So views will depend on the time you go. There are some lovely lodges on the Zimbabwe side that will provide the full game viewing experience and if located on the Zambezi River you'll have wonderful views and sunset boat rides. Elephant Hills even has a golf course that the warthogs and baboons regularly dig up!
If it is to be Tanzania or South Africa and a tented lodge the your choice is totally dependent on which lodge takes your fancy as most of the provide outstanding service and are carefully located for best game viewing. Whatever you do though, do not entertain the thought of spending good valuable holiday time in either Dar es Salam or Johannesburg - the are both large, ugly, dangerous cities.
Tanzania - the Southern circuit is best but that then excludes the Serengeti for your dad. I'm not a great fan of the Serengeti at all but then I have been to at least 25 safari locations throughout Southern and Eastern Africa - your first safari experience will be magical no matter where you go.
South Africa - the previous suggestion of the Kruger Park area is a good one (Pindar and Sabi Sands) wonderful lodges, great service and tons of game. If you do South Africa please consider a 2 centre vacation - Kruger Park and Cape Town (safari and sea) - you'll have memories for a lifetime then.
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