Trekking Poles

Dec 8th, 2009  Posted in Articles |  No Comments »

Using trekking poles while hiking and/or trekking can be an extremely useful and effective item to use during your trip. A trekking pole is basically an advance form of a hiking stick. They are made from aluminium, so they are lightweight and collapsible, which makes for easy storage. A trekking pole is available for purchase at most outdoor activity shops, and are well worth every penny as the trekking pole can benefit you in several ways during your trekking, especially when you know how to use them properly.

Although some people may consider the trekking pole as nothing more than a fancy accessory for hikers, it is actually an extremely important tool to have. If you find trekking or hiking to be difficult and hard on your knees or back, but are not willing to stop because it is an activity that you love, then the trekking pole is the solution for your problem. When using a trekking pole you reduce the weight on your back and your legs by at least nine pounds, and if you apply more pressure on the pole it will reduce the weight from your legs and back by at least fifteen pounds. Relieving the weight from your back and legs can make an extreme difference especially if you are carrying a backpack that weights over thirty pounds and you are trekking or hiking for miles.

Using two trekking poles may prove more effective as you will gain more stability while trekking or hiking. Prior to using the trekking poles, you will want to ensure that they are adjusted to the proper height for you. It is advised by some manufacturers that the height of the pole be adjusted to the terrain, however that may prove to be unnecessary and time consuming. It is best if the pole is adjusted to fit you, not the terrain. You will also want to ensure that the wrist straps are properly placed around your wrists for maximum efficiency. While using the trekking poles with the wrist straps, you will want to apply pressure on your wrist, do not grip the pole with your hands to apply pressure, as this will reduce the effectiveness of the poles.

Trekking poles are extremely effective and should be a necessity for every trekking trip you take. The use of trekking poles during your trekking will make such a noticeable difference the first time you use it. It will reduce the stress on your back, legs, knees and feet. It will increase your speed whether you are going up or down a hill; it reduces fatigue, provides stability, and will allow you to travel longer distances. A trekking pole comes highly recommended by avid hikers and trekkers, and when you use one for the first time, you will know why.

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Safari to Amboseli National Park With Kids

Dec 4th, 2009  Posted in Articles |  No Comments »

Families traveling with kids will find Amboseli national park a safari destination matched to no other, with less tourist traffic, breathtaking open spaces, easy access from Nairobi, the list is endless.

The park described by writers as a home for the Gods’ covers 150sq mile south of Nairobi and lies just at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain at 5,895m. The park is currently on the cross roads with the government and the local communities both claiming ownership, with Kilimanjaro’s snow capped peaks dominat ing every aspect of this Park and form a stunning backdrop to the wildlife found here – elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, cheetah and a host of plains game and its breathtaking beauty, the tag is well worth the effort!

The area is home to the Masai people, tall, colorful, proud, nomadic warriors famous for their legendary prowess in battle and single handed acts of bravery in fights with wild animals. Perhaps, more than any other people they have learned to live in complete harmony with the wildlife which surrounds them , this knowledge they proudly shared to visitors and well worth the time. Kids will be allowed to get really close and explore the simple but fascinating homesteads, adults will also enjoy the cultural aspect of the lifestyle.

Amboseli’s Oltukai lodge is one of the best spots in the world where children can watch elephants and study their fascinating wilderness behavior, This is where you will find the highest concentration of elephants than anywhere else in Africa, they can be seen spread well over the savannah woodland, just remember to ask your driver guide on how this clever mammals mourn and pay last respect to a dead member or how they cross their tiny young on a fast flowing river. .

Quietly tucked away from view, The Kibo family Villa crouches undisturbed, an elegant three-bedroom log cabin built in stone and gum tree, in complete harmony with its surroundings. O wn entrance, a lounge, a fully fitted kitchen and a barbecue area. Secluded by a copse of indigenous Acacia Tortilis trees and five acres of garden, Kibo Villa is peace and privacy made perfection. Two or threes small f amilies traveling together love the self-catering option, use the lodges facility is welcome. Detailed attention is taken on security issues and a resident nurse is available on call.

Kids will love the lavish private family buffet breakfast or dinner set out specially as a family package in wonderful secluded detting amongst the tortillas trees only a tone away from the family of the resident elephants also having a feast of their own, breakfast works out best.

Selenkay conservation area lies east of Amboseli is well off the beaten track, never visited by tourist till now, birdlife is prolific especially bird of prey. The 6 tents Porini luxury camp caters for 12 guest at a time, the camp is in the lines of a traditional luxury family camp, comfortable family tent rooms, ensuite bathrooms, flush toilets, solar powered electric lighting and an amazing chef completes a safari family haven.

At Amboseli locally trained masai naturalist or walking guides will get Kids out in the mornings in a small group of say 8 kids for an adventurous nature exploration. This walking trips to the nearby sites in most cases will include lessons on the masai hunting techniques, catching and naming butterflies, treasure hunts, tree planting, hide and seek in animal camouflaged clothing and an interesting Q and A session answering every question they have ever had on wildlife and tribesmen.

The young rangers club is available to 10 – 15 year olds, could be a temporally or annual membership with letters, post cards and birthday cards sent to members all over the world from deep down wild and magical Africa

Hiking Tips

Nov 28th, 2009  Posted in Articles |  No Comments »

When you are camping, one of the most fun things you can do is go on a hike. It is great exercise; you can enjoy the outdoors, and you can see beautiful scenery. However, there are some dangers to hiking and you should be prepared for all events in order to remain safe and ensure you have a good time. Planning is essential so that you are not caught in a situation where you are not prepared.

Use a backpack to store your items that you will take with you on a hike. Put heavier items toward the bottom to help balance your center of gravity. If hiking with a group, distribute items equally amongst the group in case of an accident. If a backpack is lost and it was the only one that held the water or food, you might have a difficult time.

Dress appropriately for the weather and bring a spare set of clothing. If it is cold, wear layers and make sure to wear a hat for maximum warmth. Wear two pairs of socks and good hiking boots so you do not slip. Wear sunglasses and use sunscreen. Even if it is cold, the sun can give you a very uncomfortable burn. Also use insect repellant to protect you from pests and bites.

Bring emergency supplies in case of an accident. This should include a first aid kit, rope, a utility knife, matches and a flashlight. Always have plenty of food and water. You need to keep hydrated and nourished during a hike. Beef jerky and trail mix are excellent energy boosting foods and will help get you through the day. Water is essential but you may also pack drinks like Gatorade that have electrolytes.

Do not overdo it. Take frequent breaks and rest when you feel tired. Pushing yourself to exhaustion is unsafe. Use a walking stick to help keep you from getting tired and help you in climbing and keeping your balance. If you feel weak or light headed, sit down, take your backpack off, and eat and drink a little until you feel rested and ready to go on.

Be aware of your surroundings. The picturesque scenery is a great time to take photos or sketch. These can be enjoyable past times but it is also a chance to run into wild animals, snakes and have an accident from not paying attention. Do not venture off trails into brush that may contain snakes or other poisonous creatures. You may want to carry bear repellant and a whistle in case you come across a wild animal. A whistle can also be useful if you fall or are trapped.

Research the area where you will be hiking and plan what you will need to take accordingly. Do not be surprised by sudden climate changes. Take pictures and sightsee. Enjoy the outdoors and have a lot of fun, but be safe and prepared for anything. With a little planning, you should be able to make the most of your hiking experience.

Historical Trekking

Nov 28th, 2009  Posted in Articles |  No Comments »

Trekking is a form of hiking or walking through mountainous, rugged or rough areas. It is a sport which most often takes place in beautiful mountain ranges. When trekking in Asia, the hiker gets the opportunity to experience the beauty and uniqueness of the Himalayas. The Himalayas have the largest mountain peaks in the world and stretches across six countries in Asia. So it goes without saying that when trekking in Asia, it is definitely going to be worth visiting the Himalayas. The six countries of the Himalayas are Bhutan, China, Nepal, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The different countries in Asia hold different types of treks and tours. However, because they all hold the same mountain ranges their treks can be quite similar and easily found on any directory for any of the six countries. When trekking in Asia it is important to note that it is not the same as climbing and everyone, young or old, can partake in a trek. Different treks have different distances and level of difficulty, so it is up to the discretion of the trekker to decide what level is best suited to them.

Because of the different levels of difficulty of the treks, the distances are usually better calculated in time it takes to complete the trek rather than distance covered. Treks can go over a period of one day to a few weeks. The hikers do not have to be walking the whole time though and a lot of the longer treks have days off to discover the country and nature at your own pace. Once started on a trail for the day however, the group must meet their destination for the day or they will find themselves in a spot of trouble as concerns the sleeping arrangements.

When trekking in Asia the group has the choice of either sleeping in tea house huts that are situated along the trail or camping out in the nature in tents. If you go with an organised group it is often planned that you do not have to carry your tents and sleeping equipment but rather they are ready and waiting for you when you arrive at your campsite at the end of the day. This is one of the many advantages of trekking with an organised company when trekking.

Trekking in Asia is a unique experience enjoyed by those of you who like to be active and adventurous at the same time. It is a lovely way to experience the true beauty of nature and to spend some time appreciating it too.