Whilst walking South Africa's wonderful paths and trails, you will see all manner of wildlife, from the smallest of blue crane birds to the largest of elephants. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat will take your breath away; however if you're looking for a real animal encounter, there are ways to get just a little bit closer!
Riding an elephant
There's no denying the fact that you'll see more of the country if you're on foot and walking. South Africa does, however, tend to look very different from on top of an elephant. Far less work than using your own two feet, and more importantly far more fun, an elephant ride is a great way to see the country from a different perspective.
It is also something of a special opportunity as the temperament of the African elephant is very different from that of Asian elephants ridden in areas such as Thailand.
Not all can be ridden, however, there are some places where it is possible not only to ride African elephants, but also to groom them, walk trunk in hand with them, and feed them their meals. To get close to one of South Africa's finest animals, and to see the country from a different vantage point, taking a ride on an elephant is a must.
Swimming with Penguins
When we think of South Africa, penguins are not necessarily the first animals that spring to mind. Hardly one of the Big Five, the small African penguin is admittedly not the first animal you would think of seeing, however it is certainly one you are likely to come across whilst walking South Africa.
During your visit, make sure you head to Boulders Beach near Cape Town where you will find a whole colony of the bouncy birds.
Energetic and playful, they are a lot of fun to be around, and they are more than likely to try to make friends with you while you are swimming. Very used to people being around, the birds will not hesitate to act naturally around you giving you the perfect opportunity to see them feeding, preening and swimming in their natural environment.
Ride an Ostrich
For an animal experience that's out of the ordinary, be sure to head out towards Oudtshoorn to do some walking. South Africa's largest ostrich population can be found out in that direction, thanks to the slightly dry and desert-like feel to the region.
With ostrich farms that hold regular ostrich racing for riders of any level, there's nothing stopping you from having a go at becoming an ostrich jockey.
If however, your balance leaves a lot to be desired at the best of times, it might be best to stick to the sidelines and watch others attempt to ride the ungainly animals. Spending time at an ostrich farm is always a great day out and if you're feeling lucky you might even want to put a penny or two towards a flutter on your favourite ostrich.
By : Tony_Maniscalco
Riding an elephant
There's no denying the fact that you'll see more of the country if you're on foot and walking. South Africa does, however, tend to look very different from on top of an elephant. Far less work than using your own two feet, and more importantly far more fun, an elephant ride is a great way to see the country from a different perspective.
It is also something of a special opportunity as the temperament of the African elephant is very different from that of Asian elephants ridden in areas such as Thailand.
Not all can be ridden, however, there are some places where it is possible not only to ride African elephants, but also to groom them, walk trunk in hand with them, and feed them their meals. To get close to one of South Africa's finest animals, and to see the country from a different vantage point, taking a ride on an elephant is a must.
Swimming with Penguins
When we think of South Africa, penguins are not necessarily the first animals that spring to mind. Hardly one of the Big Five, the small African penguin is admittedly not the first animal you would think of seeing, however it is certainly one you are likely to come across whilst walking South Africa.
During your visit, make sure you head to Boulders Beach near Cape Town where you will find a whole colony of the bouncy birds.
Energetic and playful, they are a lot of fun to be around, and they are more than likely to try to make friends with you while you are swimming. Very used to people being around, the birds will not hesitate to act naturally around you giving you the perfect opportunity to see them feeding, preening and swimming in their natural environment.
Ride an Ostrich
For an animal experience that's out of the ordinary, be sure to head out towards Oudtshoorn to do some walking. South Africa's largest ostrich population can be found out in that direction, thanks to the slightly dry and desert-like feel to the region.
With ostrich farms that hold regular ostrich racing for riders of any level, there's nothing stopping you from having a go at becoming an ostrich jockey.
If however, your balance leaves a lot to be desired at the best of times, it might be best to stick to the sidelines and watch others attempt to ride the ungainly animals. Spending time at an ostrich farm is always a great day out and if you're feeling lucky you might even want to put a penny or two towards a flutter on your favourite ostrich.
By : Tony_Maniscalco
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