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railbikes · 5 years

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Route Review: Buffalo Creek Recreational Trail, WV

Running on the tracks of the former Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad, the Buffalo Creek Recreational Trail (BCRT) offers railbike and open-air railcar tours in a relaxed, interactive and highly hospitable environment. Under the umbrella of the Clay County Business Development Authority, the burgeoning trail is the grassroots beginning of an 18-mile (29-km) eco-tourism corridor for railbiking, cycling, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, camping and Speeder-powered rail excursions. I pedalled the route on April 13th, 2019, the opening day of their second season of railbike tours.

The Site

Check-in is at 867 Buffalo Creek Road, just outside of the town of Clay and near the confluence of the Buffalo Creek and Elk River. BCRT has a gift shop at the check-in office, which, as the staff explained to me with great pride, was stocked only with locally made product, contributing thousands of dollars into the local economy to support crafts and handiwork. The start of the ride is collocated with an active little league baseball field and a campground and lodge, all coming together as an exhibit of the strong sense of local community.

While this is one of only a few routes to be reviewed in this blog that is in no way connected to a heritage rail operation, BCRT does offer powered options to enjoy the scenery of the Buffalo Creek. In addition to railbikes, they run a Speeder pulling bespoke open-air trailers, and optionally will tow the railbikes as well.

The Route

We rode 12 miles (19.3 kms) round trip on a section of the 18-mile (29-km) former Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad. The railroad was opened in 1904 and ran coal transport continuously until 1965, notably being the last US line to run steam engines in commercial operation. The route was reopened twice in the early 1970s and mid-1990s by other coal-related commercial interests, but saw its final revenue service in 1999.

While the section of track we rode is in relatively good shape, much of the line was destroyed by a flood in 2016. FEMA funds are in the works for restoration of the entire line, which would create opportunities to expand the railbike excursions well beyond the current route. BCRT staff shared ideas they had for the future of the line, such as setting up cabins along the way and renting railbikes to campers and fishermen for longer stays.

We were on the first run of the opening day of the season, so as it turned out, I was the only railbiker riding behind the speeder and trailers. We stopped several times to enjoy sights along the way, where BCRT staff shared history and local lore. While the entire route is through scenic forest canopy right along the Buffalo Creek, some of the noteworthy sites include former rail infrastructure, the remains of a derailed coal hopper, water-honed rock formations and a waterfall. The route passes through a clearing that was once a railroad company town called Adair, the only evidence left being a well-maintained cemetery. As described on a plaque in the clearing, the local school only gave instruction up to the eighth grade, so children rode the scheduled coal trains to get to Clay High School and back.

The Vehicles

In the DIY spirit of the the old coal rail line, BCRT keeps things simple. The railbikes are no-frills models from Railriders in Colorado. There are no seat belts and seat adjustments are held in place with eye bolts. This stripped down approach makes for a fast, fun ride, especially on the gradual slope of the return ride (where I had the fortune of riding 6 miles (9.7 kms) completely alone).

The only significant modification is the replacement of the stock urethane front wheels with cast iron wheels similar to those used on the Speeder and trailers. BCRT staff explained that the line has especially tight curves in which the urethane wheels would climb up the rails and derail, but the cast iron wheels slide through the curves. They also told me about some ideas they had for future modifications, such as adding motors and experimenting with driving the two front wheels independently (each wheel driven separately by each pedaller).

At the turnaround, BCRT staff had installed a jack-fitted lift for rotating the vehicles for the return trip. But it wasn’t necessary, the vehicles are light enough to pick up and turn.

Travel Notes

Clay is 47 miles (75.6 kms) from the West Virginia capital Charleston. A sane person would arrive there by car. At the risk of simultaneously bragging and revealing my lack of sanity, I arrived by bicycle. I loaded my road bike onto the Amtrak in NY and rode to Charleston the day before, then rode my bike to Clay and back to Charleston. I’m not sure if the mixed modes count as a century ride, but I did pedal over 100 miles, adding the distances of the bicycle and railbike.

My only advice for cycling in rural West Virginia: carry pepper spray. There a many, many loving dogs waiting their entire lives on porches just for the chance to chase a cyclist.

#railbike #railbikes #railbiking #railriders #speeder #buffalo creek #buffalo creek recreational trail #buffalo creek rail rides #buffalo creek excursion #clay west virginia #clay county west virginia #clay county business development authority #buffalo creek and gauley railroad #charleston #charleston west virginia #west virginia

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mypubliclands · 6 years

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#FindYourWay and celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week!

It’s time to plan a summer adventure on your public lands to celebrate this year’s National Fishing and Boating Week!

The Bureau of Land Management manages over 130,000 miles of fishable rivers and streams and provides countless public recreational fishing and boating access opportunities throughout the United States. From desert reservoirs to mountain streams, BLM-managed fisheries and aquatic resources support public recreation and subsistence fisheries and are critical for sustaining the Nation’s aquatic resources and fisheries. BLM-managed public lands are open for fishing unless specifically closed for specific resource protection purposes.

Check out the list below to discover some of our favorite boating and fishing spots! Some of these spots are Wild and Scenic Rivers. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Learn more on our website, and start exploring!

Gulkana Wild and Scenic River, Alaska

The Gulkana River begins in the Alaska Range near Summit Lake and flows south into the Copper River, which eventually empties into the Gulf of Alaska between Cordova and Katalla. Several hundred lakes and ponds are scattered throughout the spruce-dominated forest of the Gulkana River watershed, providing abundant nesting areas for trumpeter swans and waterfowl.

Portions of the Gulkana River were designated for its wild character as part of the National Wild and Scenic River system. The BLM asks that all users do their part to help maintain the wild character of the Gulkana through low impact camping techniques.

Lake Havasu, Arizona

Lake Havasu is a premier destination for water-based recreation, especially for boating enthusiasts and sport anglers.The BLM Arizona Lake Havasu Field Office maintains 87 boat-access-only campsites along the Lake Havasu shoreline, as well as a handful of day use areas and campgrounds south of Parker Dam on the California side of the Colorado River.

Recreationists will now be able to easily attain electronic recreation permits and annual passes for Lake Havasu shoreline sites through the digital marketplace, YourPassNow. More information available on our website.

Trinity Wild and Scenic River, California

Popular with fisherman and pleasure boaters alike, the 43 miles of the Wild and Scenic Trinity River from Lewiston to Pigeon Point is a class I and II segment that flows out of the Trinity and Lewiston Lakes. This clear, cold section of the river is world famous for its fly fishing. Paddlers enjoy the narrow valley with Ponderosa Pine, Douglas fir, Oaks, and Madrone trees coating the walls of the canyons. If you would like more adrenaline rush, the waters below Pigeon Point rage at class III-V. Those interested in a more relaxing experience can enjoy the abundant camping options in the area or head for the trail with your friends, horses, or dog. If you would like to stay at the river's edge, you can always swim, fish or do a little gold panning. The river can be accessed from many locations along this stretch of the Trinity River.

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado

The Arkansas River is one of the most popular river-rafting spots in the United States. The area also provides some of the best fishing in Colorado. The spectacular scenery is highlighted by the steep, narrow, rocky canyons that provide excellent opportunities to view Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. There are over 25 developed river-access areas. Popular activities include rockhounding at Ruby Mountain, fishing for brown trout at Hecla Junction, and wildlife-watching at the Five Points Watchable Wildlife Area in Bighorn Sheep Canyon. The area is jointly managed by the BLM and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

South Fork of the Snake River, Idaho

The South Fork of the Snake River flows for 66 miles across southeastern Idaho, through high mountain valleys, rugged canyons, and broad flood plains to its confluence with the Henrys Fork of the Snake near the Menan Buttes. It flows northwest from Palisades Dam in Swan Valley. For the first nine miles, the river runs through a narrow channel, then widens and flows around several island complexes. A waterfall can be seen just upstream from the Swan Valley Bridge where Fall Creek cascades into the river. Downstream of Conant launch the river leaves Highway 26 and enters a scenic canyon. The impressive canyon scenery continues downstream until near Heise Hot Springs the cliffs give way to a level, but extremely dynamic, flood plain.

Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River, Montana

The Missouri is the longest river in the United States, flowing more than 2,500 miles from its source on the eastern slope of the Rockies near Three Forks, Montana, to its confluence with the Mississippi River at St. Louis, Missouri. Congress designated 149 miles of the Upper Missouri as a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System in 1976, calling it an irreplaceable legacy of the historic American west. The Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River section starts at Fort Benton, Montana, and runs 149 miles downstream ending at the James Kipp Recreation Area.

49 species of fish (ranging from 1/2-oz. minnows to 140 lb. paddlefish) reside in the river. Fishermen are most likely to catch goldeye, drum, sauger, walleye, northern pike, channel catfish, carp and smallmouth buffalo.

For the family who plays together, the Upper Missouri caters to boaters of all degrees, from the beginning novice to the expert paddler to the leisurely motor boat aficionado. Visitors embark into a capacious river corridor that seemingly swallows even the largest groups and are treated to a remoteness not often found in the 21st Century.

Pine Forest Recreation Area, Nevada

The Pine Forest Range, in northern Nevada's arid Great Basin, is a rare and exceptional area of abundant streams and clear, cold subalpine lakes. Nestled in a cirque and fed by snowmelt and springs, these lakes are not only visually stunning but also possess an excellent trout fishery. The lakes are surrounded by a rare remnant population of white bark and limber pines; stands of quaking aspen and mountain mahogany are also found throughout the area. Fall brings a riot of color found in few other places in northern Nevada.

Gila Lower Box Canyon, New Mexico

The Gila Lower Box Canyon is a true oasis in the desert, 20 miles north of Lordsburg, New Mexico. Since livestock were removed from the river canyon in 1990, a lush native community of cottonwood, willows, and other riparian and aquatic vegetation has re-established and flourished. The area provides some of the best birding in New Mexico. Home to approximately 200 species, it has one of the highest bird diversities in the state. The area provides habitat to many rare and unusual birds including Bell's vireo, peregrine, bald eagle (in winter), golden eagle, black hawk, zone-tail hawk, gray hawk, yellow-billed cuckoo, Gila wood pecker, and Abert's towhee. The river provides opportunities for canoeing or rafting during spring runoff, hunting, and year-round fishing and camping. The river contains smallmouth bass and several species of catfish.

Quartzville Creek Wild and Scenic River, Oregon

Tranquility and water both flow in the wild and scenic Quartzville Creek, where one may hike, camp, fish or simply gaze into the mesmerizing, cascading waters. Quartzville Creek is named for the gemstone that has been mined in the area and a ghost town that was once the center of two brief gold mining efforts in the late 1800s.

Birch Creek Reservoir, Utah

Birch Creek Reservoir is a day-use fishing access site with public parking and toilet facilities adjacent to an excellent tiger trout fishery at the foot of the Monte Cristo Mountains in Rich County, UT. The site is located 10 miles west of Woodruff, UT off State Route 39. Access to the reservoir is walk-in only, non-motorized watercraft only. No fees are charged.

Wisconsin Islands, Wisconsin

Wisconsin, famed for its 84,000 miles of rivers that meander through varying terrain and its 15,000 lakes, is full of places to paddle, float, and fish. Many islands in this region were omitted from the original land surveys conducted in the 1830s and 1840s. Because of this, there is a mixing of ownership between state-owned, privately owned islands. For those under federal management, the BLM - Eastern States administers to almost 500 islands throughout the area. Because of this varied ownership, it's critical that visitors determine whether an island is public land before using it.

The flowages between Stevens Point and Nekoosa are chock-full of more than 60 public islands, ranging from small, low patches of willows and alder, to large stands of mixed pines and hardwoods. Below Castle Rock Lake, the islands down to Prairie du Sac are mostly floodplain forests with broad sandbars that invite paddler-campers. A few of these islands have remnant prairie and savanna vegetation.

Many public islands are perfect fishing spots, lunch stops for your next float trip, or overnight campsites. However, there are no visitor services at any of these locations; as such, it is important to plan accordingly. If you have any questions about visiting the islands, please call (414) 297-4400.

Check out the Wisconsin Islands ESRI story map to learn more about these hidden gems.

North Platte River, Wyoming

The North Platte River is the only floatable waterway in central Wyoming and has become the destination fishery for the state. Scenic and recreational values of the North Platte River are derived from a combination of environmental factors and management practices. The river is highly valued as a class 1 fishery. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has rated it as a blue ribbon fishery. Game fish species include rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. The most common recreation activities are fishing, floating, waterfowl hunting, and observing wildlife. There are also opportunities for picnicking and camping. This river has become a vital part of the social and economic values of central Wyoming.

ll anglers on public lands must have the required state license(s). That’s because states are responsible for managing wildlife within their borders for the trust and benefit of their residents, even if the hunting occurs on federal lands. You can search for state fishing licenses on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website.

For more river trips ideas, check out the Department of the Interior’s blog!

#FindYourWay #find your way #fishing #boating #recreation #yourpubliclands #wildlife #adventure #discovery #outdoors #water #road trip #bureau of land management #wild and scenic rivers #rivers #makeyoursplash

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari 12 days

Program Highlights

Duration: 12 Days Category: Outbound Tour Destinations: Kenya and Tanzania Major Attractions: There are multitudes of elephant, buffalo, giant forest hog as well as the endangered black rhino in Aberdare Mountains Its animals include lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras and hippos. Wildebeest traverse its plains during their annual migration in Maasai Mara Among the predators are lions, cheetahs and leopards in Lake Nakuru National Park More than 25 eastern black rhinoceros, one of the largest concentrations in the country, plus around 70 southern white rhinos in Lake Nakuru National Park Spots of Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti Be able to see huge group of flamingoes in Manyara and Ngorongoro Big five in Ngorongoro Crater Tree climbing lion in Manyara Tour Guides Language: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian For other languages please send a special request prior to your safari -additional fee may apply. Start in: Nairobi End in: Arusha Recommended Packing list: Camera with enough zoom and memory space and extra batteries, binoculars, light clothes, safari boot, mosquito repellents, sunhat, sunglasses with UV radiation filtering etc. Additional note: This is a safari program covering some of Kenya and Tanzania Destination whereby you will need armed ranger/guide for any walking safari in this destination

Itinerary Description

Day 1: Arrival, Tour Briefing and Resting You will be picked up from the airport in Nairobi ( Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) and be transferred to the booked hotel in Nairobi Get the safari general briefing from the prepared safari consultant/guide Dinner and overnight stay at your booked hotel in Nairobi Day 2: Drive from Nairobi to Aberdare Mountains for game viewing Departure from your Nairobi Hotel at 08:00hrs, drive to Nyeri via local villages with arrival to the Aberdares around noon After lunch you will go on some game drives in the rich Aberdares mountain forest before returning to your lodge Accomodation will be at the unique The Ark, a tree-top style stilted lodge is set in thick woodland in the heart of the Aberdare National Park overlooking a floodlit waterhole and a saltlick which attracts a host of wildlife Elephants, rhinos, leopards and bushbucks are frequently seen Numerous Balconies and lounges provide superb game viewing and excellent photographic opportunities Have dinner and overnight stay at The Ark Day 3: Drive from Aberdare Mountains to Lake Nakuru for game viewing After breakfast you proceed to Lake Nakuru for game viewing After arrival you check in at your lodge After lunch and some rest, have a game drive at Lake Nakuru, one of the Rift Valley soda lakes and best known for its thousands, sometimes millions of flamingoes nesting along the shores The surface of the shallow lake is often hardly recognizable due to the continually shifting mass of pink The number of flamingoes on the lake varies with water and food conditions and the best vantage point is from Baboon Rocks Also of interest, an area of 188 km around the lake fenced off as a sanctuary to protect Rothchild giraffe and black rhinos Have dinner and overnight stay at the Lion Hill Lodge at Lake Nakuru, beautifully located close to the entrance with a view towards Lake Nakuru and its flamingo flocks Day 4: Drive from Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha then to Masai Mara for game viewing After breakfast you proceed to Lake Naivasha where you enjoy a beautiful boat trip on Lake Naivasha, a true bird sanctuary On your way along the lakeshores you will see hippos socializing lazily in the shallow waters or hiding in dense papyrus forest Lunch will be taken at Elsamere, a haven for lovers of nature, set in Acacia forest on the banks of Lake Naivasha It is the former home of the late Joy Adamson who, together with her husband George, became world famous for their pioneering conservation work and relationship with lioness Elsa, as told in her bestselling book ‘Born Free’ After lunch you make your way to Masai Mara with viewing various games on the way, birds, herds of Antelopes, Zebra, giraffe, Elephants, gazelle, etc While on the way, you have chances to visit Maasai local village (Manyata) and take some photos of really Maasai with their culture attires At Masai Mara you go for an afternoon game drive with high chances of seeing the’ Big five’ and many other wild animals set to retire for the day Have dinner and overnight stay at the luxurious Keekorok Lodge Day 5: Full day game drive at Masai Mara Have a full day of game drive at Maasai Mara Depending on the game drive nature you will have a great moment to visit the famous Mara River whereby different types of animals mingle to drink water, and have Picnic lunch in the bush You will have either at Masai Mara or Serengeti the chance to experience the ‘Great Migration’ and some 1.5 millions of wildebeest and zebras on the move Have dinner and overnight stay at the luxurious Mara Serena Lodge Day 6: Drive from Masai Mara to Isebania then to Lake Victoria for game viewing Early morning game drive at Masai Mara and return to the Camp for breakfast Proceed to Isebania for Border crossing into Tanzania After visa and border procedures we drive along the lakeshore to Musoma one of the major towns at Lake Victoria In Musoma we embark a speedboat which will take us to an Island in Lake Victoria and to a private Island retreat, the Lukuba Island Lodge You can spend the rest of the day at leisure and possibility swim in the warm waters of Lake Victoria Have dinner and overnight stay at Lukuba Island Lodge Day 7: Drive from Lake Victoria to Serengeti for a game drive In the morning we go out for a boat trip to Lake Victoria by local fishermen Afterwards you proceed towards Ndabaka Gate and enter the Serengeti through the Western Corridor You pass through green Savannah with Elephants and Giraffes roaming around through a stretch of land which is rarely visited by travellers to reach Central Serengeti. The name Serengeti comes from the Maasai word “Siringet” referring to an endless plain which you will experience on your way to your lodge located at the Niaroboro Hills where you have spectacular views through huge panorama windows Have dinner and overnight stay at your booked hotel in Serengeti Day 8: Full day game drive at Serengeti Have a full day of game drives around Serengeti You can expect to see wildebeest, lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, baboons, hippos, rhinos, antelopes and many birds and other species We are very flexible with choosing our route will be on the track with the migration on its way to Masai Mara Have dinner and overnight stay at your booked hotel in Serengeti Day 9: Drive from Serengeti via Olduvai Gorge to Ngorongoro for game viewing Have an early in the morning game drive after tea/coffee which is the best time to see the animals as they get out from their hide for the morning preys or return from their night hunt After lunch breakfast you leave for Ngorongoro Conservation Area On the way you will stop at the Olduvai Gorge where anthropologists Louis and Mary Leakey made many significant discoveries, contributing to the theory that human life originated in Africa Arrive at Ngorongoro in good time for lunch In the afternoon you go for a Walking safari at the Northern Crater Rim inhabited by buffaloes, elephants and different species of monkeys escorted by an armed ranger Have dinner and overnight stay at Ngorongoro providing a wonderful view towards the crater Day 10: Full day game drive at Ngorongoro Crater After breakfast you will descend into the crater for a wonderful game drive (with a picnic lunch) inside the Ngorongoro Crater which is one of World Heritage Site holding a permanent population of more than 30 000 animals As only very few of those migrate in and out of the crater with its 2000 ft. high walls, you can expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, flamingos, jackals, rhinos, antelopes, many birds and other species The Crater is also home to the rare black rhino almost extinct in Tanzania With a bit of luck you will see the ‘Big Five’ during one game drive Have dinner and overnight stay at Ngorongoro Farmhouse in Ngorongoro Day 11: Drive from Ngorongoro to Lake Manyara for a game drive In the morning you drive to Lake Manyara National Park Nestling at the base of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment, the park is recognized for its incredible beauty with lush vegetation and tropical forests of giant fig and mahogany trees Lots of elephants, giraffe, buffalo, zebra and a variety of antelope inhabit the park as well as a variety of monkeys and a large population of hippos If you are lucky you may see the Manyara lions, well known for their tree climbing habits, lazily resting on the branches of an "Acacia tortilis" tree The birdlife is also abundant, with flamingoes, pelicans, hornbills and plenty of forest species Have dinner and overnight stay at Losirwa Camp at Lake Manyara Day 12: Half day game drive in Manyara then drive to Arusha Have a morning breakfast at a lodge/hotel in Manyara After breakfast have a game drive at Manyara until afternoon Break for a while in the afternoon to have lunch After lunch drive heading to Arusha Arrive in Arusha in late evening You might have an optional Arusha town city tour if you wish too Have dinner and overnight stay at the hotel/lodge in Arusha Read the full article

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articlesbyjimmycruze · 4 years

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Top 10 Motorcycle Trips You Will Want on Your Wish List

Many of us don't need help to decide the paths we would like to take before leaving on a motorcycle trip, but if you have exhausted your repertoire of usual rides, here are 10 great destinations that you can add to your list of ‘Dream Rides’.

1. Arizona

The longest stretch of the old and genuine United States Route 66 is located in western Arizona, covering 90 solitary miles from Seligman to Kingman along the tracks of the Burlington-Northern-Santa Fe. The railways arrived in the late nineteenth century and the motorways continued into the early 20th century. Angel Delgadillo lives in Seligman, who was born there 88 years ago and was instrumental in preserving the 66-year-old legend.

2. Arkansas

The walk around the Buffalo National River in the Ozark Mountains offers endless fun and many opportunities to dust off the wheels. The Jasper Newton County headquarters on State Route 7 provides a focal point and small roads start in all directions, including through the Ozark National Forest. A word for the wise: if you find yourself in front of a river, it is better to go around than to end up with a flooded motorcycle.

3. California

The Big Sur Highway is tucked between the coast and the Santa Lucia mountain range and the 100 mi stretch between Cambria and Carmel, is a popular favorite route amongst the locals. It is a beautiful journey all year long, assuming that winter rains do not cause landslides. Two lanes with many curves, mountains on one side and surf foam on the other. Don't try to view while the bike is in motion; stop and then look, it's much safer.

4. Canada

Head east to Nova Scotia and there, at the tip of Cape Breton Island, is the North Cape. The road surrounding the Cape Breton Highlands National Park is called the Cabot Trail (after the 15th century explorer John Cabot) and, in good weather, the 135 mile circuit is one of the continent's most divine walks. Not the best hike to take in bad weather and always bring appropriate clothing and good quality motorcycle camping gear if you plan on camping in the park.

5. Colorado

Schofield Pass (10,707 feet) is not for the faint of heart, and it is one of the most challenging walks in the Rocky Mountains. In 1880, when silver was king, the 5-mile Gothic highway was built between the marble and Crested Butte mining sites, mostly simply a shelf off the side of the mountain that falls directly into the canyon of the crystal river. It is a dangerous journey, and only really, very competent should try (according to Wikipedia, the pass claimed 12 victims).

6. Georgia

It is well known that Chattahoochee National Forest is one of the top best playgrounds for motorcyclists, and the Two Wheels of Suches Motorcycle Campground & Lodge is the place to be. Founded in the early 1980s by Frank and Jeanie Cheek, the original Two Wheels Only (T.W.O.) Motorcycle Resort hosted over half a million motorcyclists. DOS. It closed in 2011 and the property was subsequently purchased by motorcycle enthusiasts and local resident Bill Johnston, who expanded and renovated the facilities. It was reopened as Two Wheels of Suches in 2014. There are hundreds of miles of two-lane roads to drive, including the Wolf Pen Gap Road (State Route 180), State Route 60 and US Route 129, to name a devilishly twisted few.

7. Hawaii

For my money, the most fun and least populated island in the state of Hawaii is Kauai, and it's possible to rent motorcycles there as well. There are only about one hundred miles of paved road on the island, covering about 550 square miles. However, the 20-mile Waimea Canyon Drive tour to the 4,000-foot Kalalau Lookout in Kokee State Park makes spending at least one day there essential. The journey is best done early in the morning, before the tourist crowd.

8. Idaho

The 160 mile Salmon River Scenic Byway runs along State Route 75 and US Route 93 from the southern end of Stanley, in the Sawtooth Mountains, to the Continental Divide intersection at the 7014 foot Lost Trail pass on the State Border of Idaho / Montana. The river is this large waterfall that runs north, parallel to most of the route, shared by fishermen and boatmen. The forests are full of moose, moose and deer, so it is best to be careful, especially at dawn and dusk.

9. Italy

The Stelvio Pass from 94545 feet can be the most famous pass in the Alps for motorcyclists, with 48 sharp bends on the north-east side and many curves and tunnels on the south-west side. The road from Bormio to Prato alla Stelvio is about 30 miles and was built in 1820 to improve trade. Today it serves mainly bikers and cyclists (very difficult), with some cars and some tour buses.

10. Kansas

If you want to take a trip through the Great Plains, try US Route 36 UU In the northhern part of Kansas. There is about a 400 miles stretch from the Missouri River to St. Francis that will give you a true taste of the American Heartland. One hundred fifty years ago, much of this road was an essential route for train wagons and even, briefly, the Pony Express. Today it offers the best of the small town of the United States, with friendly people serving eggs and homemade sausages in clean and cheap cafes and motels when you need to sleep.

Jimmy Cruze is a Motorcycle Camping enthusiast and hobby mechanic who loves sharing his passion for the great outdoors and helps to operate a website specializing in Motorcycle Camping Gear. Browse their fantastic selection now!

#motorcycle camping gear #motorcycle touring trips #lightweight camping gear #motorcycle trip ideas #motorcycle rides #motorcycle destinations #camping destinations

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ezrecrack · 5 years

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The Ten Best Kayaking Destinations in Tennessee

What Are The Best Spots To Kayak In Tenn?

On This Page

Collins River

Powell River

Cumberland River

Barren Fork River

Watauga River

Caney For River

Duck River

Harpeth River

Buffalo River

Tennessee River Gorge

Tennessee’s waterways are truly something to behold. From vast river routes to gorge explorations, there are so many destinations that await kayakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out with a paddle, or you’re a seasoned veteran looking for adventure, Tennessee offers many wonderful options.

On this article, we are focusing a bit on the easier side, with beginner-friendly spots waiting to be discovered. Once you’ve taken a safety course or two, you’re ready to take your kayak into the great Tennessee outdoors.

Here are some of the best kayaking destinations in Tennessee!

1. Collins River

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The Collins River has been designated as one of Tennessee’s most scenic rivers—and rightfully so. This river is a 67-mile-long stream in the east-central portion of Middle Tennessee. That means 108 kilometers of water that feeds into the Cumberland River in the northern middle Tennessee.

Along the banks of Collins River, you’ll see miles of beautiful nature dotted with spectacular riverside homes and farms.

2. Powell River

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Beginners rejoice! If you’ve only recently picked up kayaking as a hobby, this is the right choice for you because it is classified as a Class I waterway. This means it’s the easiest level of difficulty—you’ll have no trouble navigating this river.

The Powell River is calm and flat, rising in southwest Virginia and traveling into East Tennessee. There are small waves and occasional significant water movement, but even first-time paddlers should have no trouble. The water is never too much to handle.

The area surrounding Powell River is picturesque, featuring magnificent meadows.

3. Cumberland River

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The Cumberland River is considered an easy trip. Cumberland Kayak is a company that offers a short trip that consists of a one-hour float at $29 per person. For this price, you can sail smoothly through Cumberland River, one of Tennessee’s most well-loved routes.

At the end of the tour, you’ll see Cumberland Park, as well as Nashville’s beautiful skyline. This is a great option for those who want to witness beautiful wildlife, because there are plenty of beavers and blue herons to spot as you go along your journey.

4. Barren Fork River

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The Barren Fork River is a nearly 24-mile-long trail that flows into the Cumberland River. This makes it a part of the Mississippi Watershed.

The Barren Fork begins in western Warren County, in Tennessee. What makes it unique is that unlike most Tennessee rivers, it flows east to west until it reaches McMinnville, and then turns in a northeasterly direction until you make it to the Collins.

It offers plenty of primitive spots to camp above and below the dam. However, because there are no public campgrounds, this waterway is essentially a “river a day trip” only for the general visitor.

5. Watauga River

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Watauga River is another perfect novice adventure for those who want to explore Tennessee’s elegant waterways. Watauga Kayak offers classes with a relaxed teaching style and paddling pace, so that new kayakers never feel rushed.

The tours at Watauga River cater to beginners, but it’s not limited to Class I waters. It has Class II waters that are not too challenging, but can be more exciting. The easiest trip is between 2.5 to 3 hours long, and it costs $59 per person.

6. Caney Fork River

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This river’s name comes from the dense cane breaks that grew along the river’s banks when European explorers first arrived in the area. Caney Fork River is a 143-mile waterway that flows through eleven counties. Most of its activity is in Grundy, Dekalb, White, Putnam, and Smith.

This is a great spot if you also want to try fishing, because the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency stocks the river with Rainbow, Brown, and Brook Trout every year. It is one of the best fishing spots in the state. Be ready to stay longer than usual though, because fishing and paddling are both surprisingly addictive.

7. Duck River

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The Duck River is one of Tennessee’s most popular rivers, especially among kayakers because it is the longest river in the state. At 284 miles long, Duck River is located entirely in Tennessee. With its many miles of smooth waters, you’ll find yourself exploring for hours on end. It’s bustling with activity. It’s full of fishermen, recreational boaters, kayakers, and even swimmers.

The Duck River is dotted with campgrounds, parks, and even small communities. Canoe and kayak rentals are available by Duck River, so it is very accessible, even for those who don’t own kayaks. Explore one of the most biologically diverse rivers in the country.

8. Harpeth River

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The Harpeth River flows through Williamson and Cheatham counties, spanning 115 miles and offering shallow, slow moving waters. It’s perfect for the beginning or casual kayaker. More experienced kayakers may find it rather slow, but it is still enjoyable because of how scenic it is.

9. Buffalo River

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The Buffalo River actually feeds into the Duck River, flowing 125 miles through the southern and western portions of Middle Tennessee. The river got its name from the Buffalo fish that were abundant when the first European settlers arrived.

10. Tennessee River Gorge

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If you want to take your whole family on a kayaking trip, the Tennessee River Gorge is probably the best pick for you. There are many paddling options available here, with River Canyon Adventure offering single kayaks and tandem kayaks in case you want to ride with a partner. For $45, you can use a single kayak for three hours. They also provide water safety instruction, an equipment tutorial, and a personal floatation device.

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the2travel · 7 years

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* World Travel Tips : The Best Vacation Spots in Every U.S. State

Travel Tips -

Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway or a serious vacation five months out, you don’t have to jet-set across the globe to get away from it all. As a matter of fact, you don’t even have to look much further than your own backyard. Here, the best vacation spots in every single U.S. state.

Related: Here’s Where to Travel Every Month in 2017

ALABAMA: THE GULF SHORES

Sandy dunes, white beaches, clear water and world-class golf courses are just a few of the attractions that lure vacationers to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, just south of Mobile.

ALASKA: ANCHORAGE

Anchorage gives visitors access to Alaska’s gorgeous wildlife ― striking mountains, salmon fishing, hiking and biking ― plus the sophisticated, urban comforts of fine dining and shopping.

ARIZONA: SEDONA

Think: Gorgeous red-rock vortexes and sharp canyons surrounded by idyllic desert scenery. Add to that world-class spas and art galleries and you’ve got the best spot in the whole entire state. Plus, it’s the perfect starting point for a trip to the Grand Canyon.

Related: These Are the 50 Most Instagrammed Spots in Every State

ARKANSAS: PONCA

If you need a rest from city life, nowhere is quite like this small mountain town nestled right up against the Buffalo River. Come in the summer to white-water raft in the rapids and zip-line through the lush Ozarks.

CALIFORNIA: SANTA BARBARA

About an hour and a half north of Los Angeles, this coastal city stretches before the Santa Ynez Mountains. The “American Riviera,” as it’s sometimes called, Santa Barbara is saturated with celebs, and is known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, great restaurants and gorgeous beaches.

Related: The Ultimate “Big Little Lies” Travel Guide

COLORADO: ASPEN

Glitz and glamour aside, this Colorado village is a stunning place to visit any time of year. (The bustling ski town turns into a green Rocky Mountain retreat come summer.)

CONNECTICUT: MADISON

This slow-paced seaside town on Connecticut’s Gold Coast has a totally different vibe from the fancy Greenwich lifestyle you might associate with the state. In Madison, you’ll find simple summer pleasures like lobster shacks, ice-cream stands and quiet beaches like Hammonasset Beach State Park.

DELAWARE: REHOBOTH BEACH

Set on the Atlantic coast, Rehoboth’s pristine beaches are a popular getaway for folks fleeing hot D.C., Maryland and Delaware summers. Rent a bike and stroll down the charming boardwalk lined with bars, funky shops, live music and restaurants.

FLORIDA: SANIBEL ISLAND

In a state full of oceanside vacation towns, Sanibel (off Florida’s peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico) is a paradise above the rest. Its white beaches are swept with some of the most beautiful patterned seashells you can find in the country, and the crystal waters are perfect for boating, fishing and snorkeling.

Related: 8 Island Vacations You Can Take Without Leaving the Country

GEORGIA: TYBEE ISLAND

Set 18 miles east of Savannah, this barrier island is a popular southern vacation destination. Here, you’ll find quaint bed-and-breakfasts, a historic lighthouse, three miles of sandy beaches and a long stretch of pier popular among fishermen and and musicians.

HAWAII: MAUI

OK, Hawaii kinda isn’t fair, since the whole state is a vacation haven. But since we had to pick one spot, we went with Maui, known for sprawling golden shores and secret snorkeling coves. The road to Hana--a winding and narrow 65-mile stretch along the Pacific--might be the most scenic route we’ve ever come across.

Related: The Guide to Kauai

IDAHO: COEUR D’ALENE

Surrounded by dozens of scenic lakes and located just 30 miles east of Washington state, Coeur d’Alene is an outdoorsy haven. During the summer, there’s great golfing, watersports and hiking, and during the winter it’s all about that #skilife.

ILLINOIS: GALENA

Midwesterners head to this small town on the Illinois-Wisconsin border to escape the summer heat. Galena contains one of America’s cutest main streets, as well as family-owned, local wineries and rolling hills. Don’t miss your chance to take a sunset hot-air-balloon tour.

Related: The 6 Cutest Main Streets in America

INDIANA: CHESTERTON

Make a trip to Chesterton to visit the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, 15 miles of large sand dunes that border Lake Michigan’s Southern shore. With beaches, hiking trails, camping sites and cabin rentals, it’s basically everything you want from a relaxing getaway.

IOWA: OKOBOJI

Who knew Iowa is home to five terrific lakes? At the center of them is West Lake Okoboji, known for waterskiing, tubing, golfing and sailing. Oh, and did we mention the outdoor movie screenings?

KANSAS: MONUMENT ROCKS

At the Monument Rocks National Monument 25 miles south of Oakley, you can examine giant chalk formations covered with fossils that are 80 million years old. (Who knows, you might even see evidence of a dinosaur.) While you're sightseeing in the area, check out Castle Rock, an ancient pillar of limestone.

KENTUCKY: LOUISVILLE

There’s more to Louisville than the Kentucky Derby. Here, you’ll find live bluegrass music, art galleries, bourbon distilleries and wine trails.

LOUISIANA: NEW ORLEANS

Come for the jazz clubs, French-Creole-style architecture and swamp tours. Stay for the po’ boys, jambalaya and beignets.

Related: 21 Things You Absolutely Must Eat When You’re in New Orleans

MAINE: KENNEBUNKPORT

Blueberry farms, rocky coastline, sandy beaches, clam shacks and picturesque cottages are just some of the things that make this coastal town the quintessential New England vacation spot.

MARYLAND: ST. MICHAELS

You might recognize this adorable Chesapeake town from the movie Wedding Crashers. The red-brick streets are lined with Victorian homes and boutiques, and the pier is scattered with blue crab restaurants and docked boats.

MASSACHUSETTS: CAPE COD

Drive over the Bourne Bridge and you’ll find yourself in the jewel of Massachusetts, where birch and beech forests give way to sandy dunes, lighthouses and quaint clam shacks as far as the eye can see.

Related: America’s Best Beach Towns

MICHIGAN: TRAVERSE CITY

There’s a reason why top chefs like Mario Batali love Traverse City. Surrounded by cherry blossoms, farmland, vineyards and dunes, this hip, small town in northern Michigan is a short driving distance away from the state’s best wineries. Plan a visit to 2 Lads Winery to taste local Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir.

Related: The Best Wine Made in Every Single U.S. State

MINNESOTA: GRAND MARAIS

Grand Marais is one of the most charming small towns on Minnesota’s North Shore. Book a cabin at Gunflint Lodge, a family summer camp with outdoor activities for all ages.

Related: The Best Lake Towns in America

MISSISSIPPI: BILOXI

Biloxi, on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, draws tourists year-round for its warm climate, casinos and resorts. Take a ferry ride to nearby Ship Island and keep a lookout for dolphins along the way.

MISSOURI: LAKE OF THE OZARKS

Ever wonder what total relaxation looks like? We’re pretty sure it’s this lake, where you can fish for walleye, catfish and largemouth bass.

MONTANA: BIG SKY

This mountain town just southwest of Bozeman is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Visit during the winter for some of the best (and least crowded) skiing in the States.

NEBRASKA: OMAHA

Located on the Missouri River, this city on the Lewis and Clark Trail is worth a visit. One highlight is the Old Market, where brick warehouses dating back to the 1880s have since been converted into a row of galleries and farm-to-table restaurants.

NEVADA: LAKE TAHOE

So, you’ve already taken the obligatory trip to Sin City. Now, head to South Lake Tahoe, a stunning, year-round setting for outdoor activity. (Don’t worry, you can still gamble.)

NEW HAMPSHIRE: PORTSMOUTH

You might not realize that Portsmouth ― with its brick streets, colonial-style houses and bustling Market Square ― is the third-oldest city in the country. The highlight of this lively port city is the waterfront, which is lined with upscale restaurants, pubs, seafood shacks and ice cream parlors.

NEW JERSEY: CAPE MAY

This darling seaside town at the southernmost tip of New Jersey is pretty far from the world of Snooki and The Situation. Think: colorful Victorian homes, old lighthouses, tranquil beaches and horse-drawn carriages ambling up the streets.

Related: 30 Things You’ll Get Only If You’re from New Jersey

NEW MEXICO: SANTA FE

At the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains sits Santa Fe, an enchanting city with a small-town vibe. Art lovers go gaga for the many craft shops selling New Mexican turquoise and pottery, and the charming restaurants with sculpture gardens in the back.

NEW YORK: MONTAUK

Nicknamed “The End,” Montauk is a small seaside town full of natural beauty and pristine shores. While not entirely free from the throngs of New Yorkers escaping the city, Montauk remains a down-to-earth haven for artists and fishermen.

Related: 7 Gorgeous Hamptons rentals to Lock Down Now

NORTH CAROLINA: COROLLA

You don’t need to pack much more than a swimsuit, T-shirt and flip-flops for a trip to this carefree beach town in the Outer Banks. You might even spot a wild horse as you stroll along the shoreline.

NORTH DAKOTA: FARGO

News flash: Fargo, the largest city in North Dakota, is actually pretty hip. In recent years, it’s attracted a techy and entrepreneurial crowd, and as a result, the downtown streets are filled with hip bars and restaurants (like the new hot spot Würst Beer Hall).

OHIO: PUT-IN-BAY

This summer village is found on a small Lake Erie island not far from the Canadian border--and it’s known for an adorable Victorian-era downtown and vibrant nightly party scene.

OKLAHOMA: OKLAHOMA CITY

This friendly capital city is on the rise. Just look at 21c Museum Hotel, a trendy boutique that sprung up in a derelict Ford Motor Company assembly plant. Of course, that’s the norm in Bricktown, where restored, red-brick warehouse buildings line the riverwalk.

OREGON: BEND

Twenty years ago, Bend was virtually unheard of. But today, this up-and-coming city attracts crowds for its gorgeous landscapes and blossoming cultural scene. Above all, Bend is known for craft breweries (you’ll find over two dozen) and easy access to the great outdoors.

PENNSYLVANIA: JIM THORPE

This yearlong tourist destination in the Pocono Mountains is the perfect spot for white-water rafting during summer or a romantic cottage getaway during the snowy winter. (Just be sure to book a room with a fireplace.)

RHODE ISLAND: LITTLE COMPTON

Little Compton is one of the Ocean State’s best kept secrets. Driving toward the beach, you’ll pass rolling farms, Sakonnet vineyards, clam shacks and bait and tackle shops.

SOUTH CAROLINA: BEAUFORT

Antebellum mansions, Spanish moss and lowcountry cooking are just a few of the selling points for this historic, coastal Carolina town. Book a stay at the Cuthbert House Inn (it’s the epitome of Southern hospitality) and soak in the charm.

SOUTH DAKOTA: DEADWOOD

In the heart of the Black Hills mountain range, Deadwood is a real rough-and-tumble Western town, where legends like Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Seth Bullock once walked. Now saloons, rodeos and parades transport visitors back in time to the Gold Rush years.

TENNESSEE: NASHVILLE

It’s called the country capital of the world for a reason. For a vacation full of live music, honkey-tonk and lots of bourbon drinking, head immediately to this bustling town.

Related: Guide to Nashville: The Music City

TEXAS: HILL COUNTRY

Stretching just north of Austin to San Antonio, the Texas Hill Country is known for fields of wild bluebonnets, stellar country music and barbecue that’ll blow your mind. The towns of Bandera and Fredericksburg are two highlights along the 200-mile stretch of country.

UTAH: MOAB

You might be surprised how much this tiny southwestern town has to offer, but there’s much more than blue skies and red-rock canyons. Take a short drive from Moab’s adorable brewery- and bakery-clad main street to find Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, where you can hike and climb around the rock formations.

VERMONT: BURLINGTON

This progressive, Birkenstock-wearing, tofu-eating college town is home to a thriving art scene and an outdoorsy community. Nature-seekers will enjoy Burlington’s hiking and biking trails on the Lake Champlain shoreline with views of the Adirondacks.

VIRGINIA: RICHMOND

Teeming with galleries, craft breweries and public art, there’s no doubt that Virginia’s capital city is experiencing a serious revival. Richmond is also one of the most exciting culinary destinations right now, thanks to hip, new restaurants serving everything from local oysters to small-batch ciders.

WASHINGTON: SAN JUAN ISLANDS

Lopez, Shaw, Orcas and San Juan are the four largest of the San Juan Islands, located between Seattle and Vancouver Island. Each is a nature-lover’s paradise, home to lush forests, rocky coastlines and orcas that swim around the channels.

WEST VIRGINIA: FAYETTEVILLE

Many travelers visit Fayetteville to go rock climbing or white-water rafting in the New River Gorge. But don’t underestimate the charming downtown, lined with interesting restaurants, coffee shops and craft stores filled with pottery and artwork.

WISCONSIN: BAYFIELD

In Bayfield, on the shores of Lake Superior, charming fishing village meets cosmopolitan hot spot. Don’t miss a kayaking day trip or guided boat tour to the carved rock formations found on the nearby 21 Apostle Islands.

WYOMING: JACKSON HOLE

In the heart of the American West, majestic Jackson Hole is surrounded by the snow-capped Teton Mountains and wild Snake River. But don’t worry, indoor gals: There are also luxurious five-star hotels, top spas and trendy restaurants.

The Most Beautiful Spot in Every U.S. State

15 Fabulous Things Every Woman Should Do While Traveling Solo

8 Travel Apps That Don’t Require Internet Access

The 15 Most Beautiful Cities in the Entire World

The Best Vacation to Take at Every Stage of Your Relationship

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

World Travel Tips : Find cheap flights, hotels and car rentals. Plan your trip with travel guides, personalized recommendations, articles, deals and more. When you travel, you want your bags to travel with you. Follow these tips from travel professionals on how not to lose your luggage.

#best travel guides #Travel Tips #Travel Information #Travel Guide #Travel Agent News for The travel

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newstfionline · 7 years

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Pirates, Cyclones and Mud: Bangladesh’s Island Solution to Rohingya Crisis

Reuters, Feb. 3, 2017

THENGAR CHAR, Bangladesh--The island is two hours by boat from the nearest settlement. There are no buildings, mobile phone reception or people. During the monsoon it often floods and, when the seas are calm, pirates roam nearby waters hunting for fishermen to kidnap for ransom.

Welcome to Thengar Char, a muddy stain in the murky waters of the Bay of Bengal, identified by Bangladesh as a short-term solution to the humanitarian crisis unfolding on its border with Myanmar, across which some 70,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled.

Those refugees, escaping an army crackdown on insurgents that began in October, have joined more than 200,000 Rohingya already living in official and makeshift camps, straining resources in one of Asia’s poorest regions. Bangladesh says the refugees bring crime and a risk of disease.

The influx has prompted Dhaka to revive a plan--much criticized by humanitarian workers when it was first proposed in 2015--to move thousands of people to this uninhabited island about 250 km (150 miles) northwest of their border camps.

While most experts dismiss the scheme as impractical, a Bangladeshi minister told Reuters this week that it was determined to push ahead, adding authorities would provide shelters, other facilities and livestock.

Local administrators, however, say they have not been informed, and when Reuters visited the island the only signs of activity were a few buffalo lazily grazing on the yellow grass along its shores.

“We have only heard bad things about the Rohingya. If they work with the pirates and get involved in crime--we don’t want them here,” said Mizanur Rahman, 48, the administrator of Might Bangha village, the closest settlement to Thengar Char.

Rahman added, however, that if the Rohingya were “good people”, they should be helped on humanitarian grounds. Others from the village echoed that sentiment, saying they were fellow Muslims and deserved assistance.

The crisis is the biggest challenge facing the government of Aung San Suu Kyi, straining Myanmar’s relations with the countries of the region hosting large Rohingya populations such as Bangladesh and Malaysia, but also the United States.

About 1.1 million Rohingya live in apartheid-like conditions in northwestern Myanmar, where they are denied citizenship. Many in Buddhist-majority Myanmar regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, while the authorities in Dhaka say they are Myanmar nationals and must ultimately go back.

It takes about two hours by boat from Rahman’s village on the coast of Sandwip--one of the largest islands in an archipelago in southern Bangladesh--to Thengar Char.

Reuters journalists were escorted there by a fishing boat and a coastguard vessel carrying seven officers equipped with Chinese-made machine guns to stave off potential pirate attacks.

Villagers complain criminals roam the nearby waters, seizing vessels, stealing the catch and releasing fishermen only after receiving a ransom.

Thengar Char is flat and featureless, covered by bushes, grass and windswept trees.

It emerged from the sea about 11 years ago, off Sandwip’s western coast, one of the myriad of shifting, unstable islands formed by sediment in the mouth of the mighty Meghna river.

While Thengar Char looked calm on a sunny winter afternoon, the main objection voiced by aid agencies to Bangladesh’s plan is the area’s unforgiving climate.

“These areas are cyclone and flood-prone,” said Quamrul Hassan, a meteorologist at the Bangladesh Weather Department, adding that the islands in the Bay of Bengal were “especially risky” to inhabit.

“Average rainfall during the monsoon season in the coastal areas is more than double that of the other parts of the country.”

Many people living on the islands are regularly evacuated during the cyclone season to shelters built on the coast, said local journalist Saleh Noman.

He thought the relocation plan wasn’t realistic.

“There is a similar island in the area and it took some 40 years for it to develop. Bet even now it’s all very basic,” said Noman.

There are currently around 30,000 Rohingya living in camps run by the United Nations near border with Myanmar, while tens of thousands more are crammed into slums that have grown up around them, without proper sanitation or healthcare.

The Rohingya from those settlements sometimes find employment, but most are sustained by local villagers and rations quietly distributed by international aid agencies.

“We can operate here, but we can’t really talk about it,” said one aid worker based in the border region.

Rohingya refugees Reuters spoke to did not want to stay where they were--but neither did they want to be moved to Thengar Char.

“We left everything in Myanmar,” said Abu Salam from Kya Guang Taung, a village in northern Myanmar that was destroyed in the crackdown. He crossed the border in December.

“That’s where our home is. If only we could get citizenship, we would like to go back.”

#Bangladesh #Thengar Char #Rohingya Muslims

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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14 Day Lodge Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Program Highlights

Duration: 14 Days Category: Combo Tour Destinations: Manyara, Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar Major Attractions: Spots of Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti Be able to see huge group of flamingoes in Manyara and Ngorongoro Big five in Ngorongoro Crater Huge herds of elephant and Baobab tree in Tarangire Tree climbing lion in Manyara Historical ancient building in Stone Town Dolphin tour at Kizimkazi Red collobus Monkey in Jozani Forest Be able to visit Spice Farm and Jambiani Village Beaches in Zanzibar Tour Guides Language: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian For other languages please send a special request prior to your safari -additional fee may apply. Start in: Moshi End in: Zanzibar Recommended Packing list: Camera with enough zoom and memory space and extra batteries, binoculars, light clothes, safari boot, mosquito repellents, sunhat, sunglasses with UV radiation filtering etc. Additional note: This is a safari program covering some of Northern Circuit and Eastern Circuit Destination whereby you will need armed ranger/guide for any walking safari in these destination

Itinerary Description

Day 1: Arrival, Tour Briefing and Resting You will be picked up from the airport in Moshi (Kilimanjaro International Airport) and be transferred to the booked hotel in Arusha Get the safari general briefing from the prepared safari consultant/guide Dinner and overnight stay at your booked hotel in Arusha Day 2: Drive from Arusha to Tarangire for a game drive Your safari starts with the drive to Tarangire, Tanzania's third largest national park and sanctuary for an unusually large elephant population Majestic baobab trees are an interesting feature of the park, dwarfing the animals that feed beneath them Animals concentrate along the Tarangire River, which provides the only permanent water supply in the area There is a great diversity of wildlife in this park, including lion, leopard, cheetah and up to six thousand elephant You will have a half day game drive in the park Have dinner and overnight stay at Maramboi Tented Camp Day 3: Drive from Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park for a game drive After breakfast we depart for Lake Manyara for a game drive Nestling at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the park is recognized for its incredible beauty You can see many game animals such as Buffalo, Elephant, Giraffe, Impala, hippo and more Continue with the game drive until evening in Lake Manyara In the evening drive to Manyara Serena Lodge for dinner and overnight stay Day 4: Drive from Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro for a game drive In the morning you will be driven to the Ngorongoro Crater Upon arrival at Ngorongoro, you will descend into the crater for a game drive on the crater floor As very few animals migrate in and out of the crater with its 2000 ft. high walls, you can expect to see lions, elephants, zebras, hippos, flamingos, jackals, rhinos, antelopes, many birds and other species Your driver/guide will be in contact with other safari drivers and will amaze you with his skill at locating the hidden animals Have dinner and overnight stay at your booked hotel in Ngorongoro Day 5: Drive from Ngorongoro to Serengeti for a game drive After breakfast you will start on your journey to the Serengeti National Park for a game drive We will enter Serengeti via Naabi Hill Gate A picnic lunch will be provided After stopping for your picnic lunch on a kopje (rocky outcropping) in the Serengeti, you will continue further into the park and go on a thrilling game drive Serengeti is mostly known for annual wildebeest migration Have dinner and overnight stay at a hotel/lodge in Serengeti Day 6: Full day game drive at Serengeti National Park A full day of game driving around the Serengeti Depending on the time of year and the location of the great migration herds, you may see huge numbers of wildebeest, and big cats, hyenas and other predators near to them - looking to hunt an easy meal All year round you can see elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, monkeys, baboons, hippos, rhinos, antelopes and many birds and other species of animals As in Ngorongoro, your driver/guide will be in contact with other safari drivers and will be skillful as ever when locating hidden animals In the evening drive to your booked hotel/lodge for dinner and overnight stay Day 7: Transfer from Serengeti to Zanzibar In the morning we bring you to the Seronera Airstrip, for your direct flight from the Serengeti to Zanzibar (short stopover in Arusha) Transfer to your booked hotel in Zanzibar for dinner and overnight stay Day 8: Full day Stone Town Tour Your program starts with a morning visit by walk on our Historical Stone Town Tour This tour takes you through fabled Stone Town, where history appears to stand still With visits to the House of Wonders, the Palace Museum (People's Palace) and the Arab Fort amongst others, it is a fascinating look at the essence of Zanzibar You will see Zanzibar's bustling market, winding alleyways, ornately carved and studded doors, two cathedrals and countless mosques Have dinner and overnight stay at Dhow Palace Hotel or Tembo Hotel Day 9: Spice tour and Jozani Forest Today you go on an excursion to the spice and fruit plantations close to Stone Town for the famous Spice Tour We have developed a special Spice Tour with in depth information not only about spices, but also organically grown herbs and a detailed description about their traditional uses in medicine, cosmetics and cooking After the tour we invite for an opulent lunch at our guides' home, where you can taste the spices and fruits After lunch we take you to your beach resort On the way you pass Jozani Forest, the last habitat of the rare endemic Red Colobus Monkey With a local guide you stroll through JozaniChwaka National Park and look at the rare monkeys If you wish you can even wander down the boardwalk to the fascinating Mangrove EcoSystem Overnight at Bahari View Hotel or Casa Del Mar in Jambiani Village Day 10 - 11: Full day leisure at Zanzibar beach Have an early breakfast at your hotel and afterward have a full day Zanzibar Beach Relaxation Relax and unwind and enjoy the beaches of Zanzibar Have dinner and overnight stay at your beach hotel Day 12: Jambiani Village Tour In the morning you drive along the coast Passing the fishing villages of Bwejuu and Paje you reach Jambiani, a fishermen village on the East coast of Zanzibar We offer a cultural village tour to visit villagers working in different professions Our guide tells about the history of the village, you will visit a traditional herbalist, who will show you the local medicines, herbs and their uses A visit to a local organically plantation on coral stone, where farmers cultivate under difficult circumstances, and seaweed farms run by woman A good chance to learn about the unique culture and the diverse environment of Zanzibar's villages and to meet the friendly Waswahili people We will show you real life, not images designed for tourists Have dinner and overnight stay at your booked beach hotel Day 13: Full day Dolphin trip Have a full day dolphin tour excursion at Kizimkazi Situated on the southern point of the island, Kizimkazi fishing village is home to several schools of bottle-nosed dolphins and Humpback dolphins, which can often be sighted following a short boat trip from the village If you are lucky, you may be able to swim quite close to the dolphins, which can be a very rewarding experience We are doing this trip in the afternoon to avoid the crowds of tourists in the morning, which in big numbers disturbing the dolphins Have dinner and overnight stay at your booked beach hotel Day 14: Departure Day Have an early breakfast early in the morning at the hotel Depending with your departure time you will be transferred to Zanzibar Airport or Seaport for your departure Read the full article

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari 12 days

Program Highlights

Itinerary Description

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari 12 days

Program Highlights

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari 12 days

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ecoamerica · 1 month

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Watch the American Climate Leadership Awards 2024 now: https://youtu.be/bWiW4Rp8vF0?feature=shared

The American Climate Leadership Awards 2024 broadcast recording is now available on ecoAmerica's YouTube channel for viewers to be inspired by active climate leaders. Watch to find out which finalist received the $50,000 grand prize! Hosted by Vanessa Hauc and featuring Bill McKibben and Katharine Hayhoe!

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari 12 days

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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14 Day Lodge Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Program Highlights

Itinerary Description

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari 12 days

Program Highlights

Itinerary Description

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newsunsetbudgetsafaris · 5 years

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14 Day Lodge Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Program Highlights

Itinerary Description

0 notes