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Home , Luanda

ANGOLA & Including a day trip to The Kingdom of Swaziland

June 12 to June 25, 2022 Led by Professional Tour Manager David William

Optional extension to ( June 25 to 28, 2022) and ( June 10 to 12, 2022) Located in southern , is the seventh largest country on the continent and one of the MOST EXPENSIVE countries in the world. It is bordered by to the south, the Congo in the north, to the east, and the to the west. The diverse ethnic communities such as the Mumuila and Mucubal, maintain their own cultural traits, traditions, and languages to varying degrees. In the cities, where slightly more than half of the population now lives, you will find a mixed culture that has been emerging since colonial times. In this urban society, since its foundation in the 16th century, the Portuguese heritage has become more and more dominant. However, African roots are evident in music and dance, and is molding the way in which Portuguese is spoken. This process is well reflected in con- temporary Angolan literature, especially in the works of Angolan authors. On this tour, you will explore a land that the modern world has yet to discover. As you make your way inland, the landscape becomes almost endless plains. From there, you will fly nonstop to another former colony of the Portuguese. With cities of colonial splendor, a golden coast scattered with balmy beaches, and cuisine packed with sizzle and spice, Mozambique is a magical part of Mother Africa. It is endowed with rich and ex- tensive natural resources. The country’s economy is based largely on agriculture, but its industry is growing mainly from the food and bev- erage industry, chemical manufacturing, and aluminum and production. The tourism sector is also expanding. The only official language of Mozambique is Portuguese, which is spoken mostly as a second language by about half of the population. Lesotho, officially the “Kingdom of Lesotho”, is an enclaved country within the border of . Known as the Kingdom in the Sky because of its lofty altitude - it has the highest lowest point of any country in the world (4,590 ft. ASL) and is the only country to be entirely above 3,200 feet ASL!

Ihab Zaki Managing Director, Spiekermann Travel

ical garden. Located in the town of Ndalatango, it was originally Sunday, June 12 a Portuguese botanical research station. Here you will find an im- Arrive in Luanda - Kwanza River pressive collection of flora, including a bamboo forest and rubber (Angola) and fig trees. Transfer toMalanje Hotel (or similar) for check-in, Arrive in Luanda, capital of Angola, in the morning. You’ll be met dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) and then begin your day with an excursion to the National Mu- seum of , which showcases the rich in Wednesday, June 15 the country, reminding us of the enslavement of Angolans. The - Luanda museum is a reflection of the hardships that the country faced and the broken hearts of those deeply affected by the slave trade. Today you’ll return to Luanda, stopping to visit Pedras Negras Next, drive to Miradouro da Lua (Moon Viewpoint), located along the way. Pedras Negras, which means “Black Rocks” in Por- about 25 miles south of Luanda. This is a spectacular landscape tuguese, is a truly stunning geological formation. A plateau of shaped by years of rain and erosion which, in turn, makes it look massive rocks towers above the surrounding savanna and can be similar to the surface of the moon. Transfer to Kwanza River Lodge seen for miles. The rocks appear to take on the shape of various (or similar) for check-in, dinner and overnight. (D) animals. Stop for lunch on the way back to Luanda and dinner will be at the hotel (TBD) or a local restaurant. (B,L,D) Monday, June 13 Kwanza River & Quiçama National Park Thursday, June 16 Luanda - In the morning, head out on a river excursion and safari at Quiça- ma National Park (also known as Kissama), Angola’s only operat- Explore more of the key sights of Luanda, with its impressive old ing national park. This former game reserve, located approximate- colonial buildings and bustling markets. Later, transfer to the air- ly 45 miles from Luanda, was once teeming with wildlife, but the animal population was almost wiped out due to civil war. Thanks port for your flight toLubango , the main city in southern Angola to the efforts of “Operation Noah’s Ark”, many animals including and one of the most beautiful in the country. Set in a lush valley wild elephants, were moved here from neighboring countries guarded by a statue of Christ, Lubango is rich in colonial heritage and quickly adapted. Return to the lodge for lunch, then enjoy mixed with the vibrancy of local culture. Transfer to Pululukwa another game drive in the late afternoon, then return to your ho- Lodge (or similar) for check-in and overnight. (B,L,D) tel for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) Friday, June 17 Tuesday, June 14 Lubango (Namibe) Luanda - Kalandula Waterfalls - Malanje Descend from the plateau on the famous Serra de Leba. Pass After breakfast, you’ll drive to see the spectacular Kalandula Wa- towards the Atlantic coast and the city of Namibe. Stop at the terfalls, one of Africa’s largest waterfalls, where you’ll admire the Mangueiras Market and a nearby village to meet the people of grandeur of the multicolor rocks and foliage that embellish the the Mucubal tribe. The Mucubal (also called Mucubai, Mucabale, waterfalls. After walking around to enjoy the panoramas and Mugubale) people are a subgroup of the Herero ethnic group, for photo ops, you’ll explore the Quedas Rapidas on the River Cuanza (Kwanza) for another view of Angola’s finest landscapes. with a semi-nomadic lifestyle dependent on cattle and agricul- Have lunch before continuing on to the last destination of the ture. They also have some very strange traditions - the girls have day - Ndalatando Botanical Gardens. Angola is double the size their upper teeth sharpened and lower ones removed. The wom- of and 14 times the size of , its former colony, and en wear a headdress made from wicker and traditionally filled yet, in the entire expanse of the country, there is only one botan- with cow tails and decorated with shells and beads. The Mucu- bal women are also known to wear strings around their breasts Upon arrival in around 3:00pm, you’ll meet your local called “oyonduthi”, which acts as a type of bra support. The men driver and transfer to the Southern Sun Maputo (or similar) for can have several wives and are also allowed to sell their wife if check-in. The flavors of Latino-Africa are brought to life in this they don’t get along with her or need extra money. The Mucubal unique city steeped in history and tradition. A short tour of the believe in a god called Huku, and also worship their ancestors’ city includes the Fortress, Central Market, Museum of Natural spirits called Oyo. Divination is very important in their culture, History and the Curio Market. You will also pass by City Hall and and they use talismans and amulets for numerous purposes such the Botanical Gardens. Dinner will be at Zambi and includes a as to protect their herds or prevent adultery. Funerals can last sev- bottle of water. All other will not be included. Return to eral days or weeks, and graves are decorated with cattle horns. your hotel for overnight. (B,L,D) The number of cows sacrificed is in relation to the importance of the deceased. Since the Mucubal usually don’t eat a lot of meat, Tuesday, June 21 cattle are only killed on special occasions. Instead, they eat corn, Maputo () eggs, milk, and chicken. They don’t eat any fish because, accord- & Tashkurgan to Mazar-I-Sharif ing to legend, one of their chieftains was taken to the sea by the Depart for a full day tour of the fascinating Eswatini (formerly Portuguese and never came back. Therefore, they believe fish kill Swaziland), one of the smallest countries in Africa. Discover its cul- men. Next, drive over Serra da Leba, a high mountain pass at an tural delights at the Manzini Market and Mantenga Craft & Life- elevation of 6,053 feet above sea level, located in the province style Centre where you can browse for Siswati jewelry and beau- of Huíla. The road to the top is paved, but very steep. The most tiful local art. Next, visit the Mantenga Cultural Village to learn challenging part of the climb is a short, mile-long section with about the history and culture of the legendary Siswati nation. At seven hairpin turns – one of the most famous hairpin roads in the this living cultural museum, you’ll be entertained by the Siswati world. Before returning to Lubango visit Lake Arco, a freshwa- dancers, dressed in their traditional costumes, as they perform ter lake named after the two sandstone arches that overlook the to the beat of echoing cowhide drums. The huts are strictly tradition- area. This beautiful oasis is home to many bird species. Return to al and made of grasses, leather, mud, and cow dung. There are also your hotel (TBD) for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) many traditional artifacts on display illustrating the Swazi way of life. If you like, try your hand at grinding maize or weaving grasses. You may Saturday, June 18 even decide to learn the local song and dance! After this amazing Lubango - Luanda cultural experience, visit more art and craft attractions at Malandela’s Complex before returning to Maputo via the famous Swazi Candle In the morning, head out on a city tour of Lubango starting with Factory. Lunch will be hosted either at Malandela’s or at the Candle a visit to The Christ the King statue (Cristo Rei in Portuguese). Factory. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) This Catholic monument and shrine that overlooks the city was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in (Bra- Wednesday, June 22 zil). Other interesting sites may include the Government Palace, Maputo - Ibo Island Cathedral, and Museum. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Mumuila people, also known as the Mwila. This semi-nomad- After an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Maputo Airport for your ic ethnic group is a subgroup of the Nyaneka-Khumbi. The women flight to Pemba Airport. Here you meet your pilot and take a local flight are known for coating their hair with oncula, a red paste made of to Ibo Island and transfer to the Ibo Island Lodge for check-in. The af- crushed red stones mixed with oil, cow dung, and herbs and deco- ternoon will be spent enjoying the lodge and activities, which are in- rated with beads and cauri shells. They also wear large mud necklac- cluded in the land cost. Ibo Island lies in the Quirimbas Archipelago es adorned with beads that they never take off. Return to Lubango of northern Mozambique and has been described as one of the most for lunch, and then visit Tundavala Gorge for impressive views of the unique and atmospheric islands in the world. Located on prime wa- city. Afterwards, head back to the airport for a return flight to Luanda terfront where romantic dhows sail out to sea during each high tide, where you’ll be transferred to a local restaurant to enjoy dinner then Ibo Island Lodge is surrounded by magnificent mansions, each over check-in to your hotel (TBD) for overnight. (B,L,D) 100 years old with coral and lime walls over three feet thick, high lofty ceilings, and original beams. The Island is a potential World Heritage Sunday, June 19 Site and therefore the rooms have been designed to incorporate the Luanda architecture and style of the original ruins. The lodge accommodates After breakfast, begin your city tour with a visit to the Fortaleza de guests in beautifully elegant, yet simple rooms, with indigenous solid Sao Miguel, a 16th century building from the earliest period of co- teak and mahogany furniture handcrafted by the people of Ibo. All lonial rule and a self-contained city for the military garrison, as well nine bedrooms feature either a king size 4-poster, or twin, hand-craft- as a holding point for slaves – an interesting feature is the ornate ed bed with crisp linen and Indian silk throws. Wide verandas hand-painted wall tiles. Next, visit Igreja Nossa Senhora do Popu- are a traditional feature of all Ibo mansions, but the lodge has widened lo, the first Anglican Church in Angola, built in 1482. If time permits, theirs considerably to house comfortable plantation style chairs with we will visit the National Museum of Anthropology, home to soft cushions. For all its tranquility and ambience, Ibo Island Lodge an impressive array of traditional masks and other artifacts. Have also offers a variety of activities and experiences to keep the most di- lunch at a local restaurant then continue your city tour followed verse interests occupied. (B,L,D) by dinner at a local top restaurant then return to your hotel for your overnight. (B,L,D) Thursday, June 23 Monday, June 20 Ibo Island Luanda - Maputo (Mozambique) Enjoy a guided walking journey through Ibo Island’s Stone Town and After an early buffet breakfast, you’ll depart for the airport at see its important historical buildings - many of which have been re- 7:00am for your flight to the next destination – Mozambique. stored while some have been left in disarray. Visit the ancient fort of by your guide to begin your adventure. Travel via the Sani Pass, St. Joao Baptista and learn more about the turbulent history that this stopping for an early tea at the Sani Top Chalet. You’ll then drive beautiful fort has endured. See how traditional silversmiths still hand over the Black Mountain Pass and take a short walk to a vantage craft exquisite intricate jewelry using an ancient Arab technique with point to view Thabana Ntlenyana - the highest peak in Southern Africa at 11,421 feet. Continue on to Mokhotlong via the stun- sand tools - an art found no-where else in the world. You’ll have a ningly beautiful Sehonghong Valley, where you’ll make a stop at chance to observe the craft in the making and purchase unique gifts “No.10 Riverside” for an ethnic Basotho experience. The Basotho, to take home. Guided historical and cultural activities enable you to also known as Sotho, have developed a very unique culture as immerse yourself in the unique culture of Ibo and the rare chance to one of the few African tribes that have adapted to mountain life. understand this unchanged lifestyle. Mozambique’s history has en- Their homes are made up of a collection of buildings and each sured that cultures have met and mingled with a blend of European, “kraal” serves a different purpose such as sleeping, cooking, stor- Indian, Arabic and Chinese. In addition to this, old Mozambique tribal age, etc. Typically, the villages are surrounded by crops of maize, customs and religions are still respected and followed on the island. wheat, beans, and vegetables. Animals are also an important part All this creates a special way of life, completely unique to Ibo Island of Basotho society and you will learn how they serve a purpose - and this afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the ponies for transportation in the mountains, donkeys for carrying charismatic people of Ibo on a guided walk through the villages for supplies, oxen to plough the fields,sheep and Angora goats for wool, etc. From here, it is just a short drive to Mokhotlong, once a first-hand look into the day-to-day life of theKimwani people. Dis- described as the most remote outpost in the British Empire. Trans- cover how Muslim faith and African traditions have blended together fer to the New Oxbow Lodge (or similar) for check-in, dinner and to create a unique lifestyle. Visit the local witch doctor and meet some overnight. (B,L,D) of the islanders, get an “Ibo face-mask” and soak up the truly authentic island culture. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) Monday, June 27 Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village Friday, June 24 Ibo Island After breakfast, drive to the Ha Kome Cave Village, a group of cave dwellings made out of mud. The caves were a hideout for the Ba- A motorized or sailing dhow excursion (depending on the winds) sia clan during the Mfecane (Difaqane) War, and to protect them- takes you to one of Ibo’s best kept secrets… a beautiful white sandy selves from cannibalism, which was practiced by other Bosotho beach totally surrounded by warm blue sea, where the luxury is in the people. The caves are still inhabited by their descendants to this seclusion of the setting. You may have some local fishermen pull up day. There are faded San paintings in the caves indicating the San on the beach with their catch of the day, or another boat with guests people also occupied the caves some time prior to the arrival of the from a neighboring property, but there is enough space and pho- Basia. Continue on to Thaba Bosiu (5,919 ft), which means “Moun- tographic experiences for everyone. This is one of the most unique tain at Night”. This sandstone plateau was used as a hideout by King beach experiences in Africa, and is considered one of the must do’s Moshoeshoe and his people in July 1824 to escape the Mfecane in the Quirimbas Archipelago. Pack and use lots of sunscreen, a hat, (Difaqane) War. The king named it Thaba Bosiu because he and his reading material, your camera, and beach gear. We’ll take care of the people arrived at night and then spread rumors that the mountain rest! The timing of this experience is entirely dependent on the tides. grew larger at night in order to discourage enemies from attack- Head out to this little piece of paradise for either breakfast or lunch, ing. This is also where the Basotho nation was established. The for- which will be served under a Bedouin tent with your feet in the sand. tress is now uninhabited with only the remains of the villages and There will be ample time for swimming, strolling along the beach, or graves of the Sotho chiefs. Transfer to Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village snoozing. Great snorkeling can be found right off the beach, as well. (or similar) for check-in, dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) Dolphins and turtles are regularly spotted en-route. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D) Tuesday, June 28 Lesotho - USA Saturday, June 25 Ibo Island - USA No trip to Lesotho is complete without a pony trek. Pony trekking, which is the second most-used mode of transport in Lesotho, has Transfer to Pemba airport for your flight back to the USA via Johan- become one of the most popular tourist activities and is one of the nesburg. End of service for those not doing the Lesotho extension. best ways to experience the Lesotho highlands. The ponies are typically robust and sure-footed, and these treks will give you the The Lesotho Extension chance to witness the spectacular mountain scenery, as well as the opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Basotho Saturday, June 25 people. Afterwards, make your way to the of Ibo Island - where you take a city tour to the important sites, such as Our Lady of Victories Cathedral (Cathedral of Maseru), and walk through Transfer to the airport for your flight and overnight in Johannes- Makoanyane Square. After lunch at a cultural restaurant, transfer to burg. You will be met in the arrivals hall and assisted with a trans- the airport for your afternoon flight to Johannesburg and connect fer to the African Rock Lodge (or similar) for check-in, dinner and to an onward flight back to the USA. End of service. overnight. (B,D) “Itinerary, hotels & routing sequence may be subject to change Sunday, June 26 without prior notice for any unforeseen circumstances, particu- Johannesburg - Lesotho larly airline schedule changes between countries”.

After enjoying an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Johan- nesburg Airport for your flight toLesotho where you will be met Angola & Mozambique Tour Cost (Land Only): $11,750.00 per person sharing in double occupancy Single Supplement: $1,500.00 Angola ONLY Tour Cost: $7,500.00 per person sharing in double occupancy (June 12 - June 20, 2022) Single Supplement: $995.00 Lesotho Extension: $2,295.00 per person sharing in double occupancy (June 25 to 28, 2022) Single Supplement: $300.00 Price based on group size minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 13 participants for the main trip Price based on group size minimum of 4 participants for the Lesotho extension Trip Grade: III Lodging Level: **_***

Tour includes: Tour does not include:

• Inter Angola & Inter Mozambique air plus flight from • International air USA to Angola & back from Mozambique Angola to Mozambique. (or from Lesotho). Approx. airfare via Amsterdam on KLM • Accommodation at hotels mentioned or similar. or South Africa Airways from DC or JFK is $1800.00 • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary • Visa expenses (approx. $400.00). (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner). • Vaccinations and required immunizations. • Transportation in a 4x4 vehicles and A/C minibus. • Trip surcharge to operate below required • All park fees, entrance fees to places mentioned in minimum participants. the program, museums and sites. • Items of a personal nature: • Accompanying English-speaking local guides. (laundry, phone calls, emails, excess luggage, etc.). • Tips to guides, drivers, hotel staff and porters. • Transfers if not arriving/departing on scheduled tour dates. • Mineral bottled water in vehicles all days. • Dayroom/overnights necessitated by changes in airline • Snacks in the vehicles on long drive days. schedules or early arrival. • Airfare from Mozambique to Lesotho (in the Lesotho extension cost). • Any fluctuations of currency or park fee increases. • The pre-night in Johannesburg for those doing theLesotho extension. • Travel protection insurance (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

Trip Grade: III Challenging – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, dusty conditions, primitive WC facilities on roads and in villages, comfortable but busy schedule and some long rides.

Lodging Level: ** -*** Moderate to Superior: most Lodges and hotels have decent amenities, refined service and comfort level ac- ceptable to western standards. About Your Tour Manager David William: For as long as I can remember, I have always had a deep rooted need to travel. After graduating from university with a degree in hospitality & tourism manage- ment that included two years abroad - one in Oxford, England and the other at École Hôtelière in Lau- sanne, Switzerland - my career as a hôtelier was on a successful track, but I longed to get away. Twenty years ago, I finally found my niche as a travel consultant and tour leader. During the last two decades, I have had the opportunity to organize and lead groups worldwide. I have organized every imaginable tour from remote, rugged expeditions to overland African journeys to luxury yachts in the Mediterra- nean. Leading groups and experiencing their excitement as we travel together is the best part of my . This path has given me the opportunity to visit 50 States and over 160 countries on all seven continents. My passion for travel, my tour leading skills and my of Africa are the perfect mix that equips me to share this special tour with you. I look forward to meeting you.

Important Trip Notes: Air: The trip schedule is based on Air France (Delta) via with a long layover in Charles DE Gaulle airport and a very early morning arrival in Luanda on June 12th. Other options are available via Jo- hannesburg on or via Addis or Emirates via Dubai but may require additional nights in Luanda upon arrival or departure. We may also need to make some adjust- ments to the dates of the trip if necessary to match air schedules.

Luggage issues: Please note we do not have any space for large hard luggage in the cars, so the hard luggage will be left in Lu- anda in a secure place - clients will, however, have access to their hard luggage on certain days. In between, they should bring strong soft/duffle bags if possible (preferably without wheels). These soft bags will go in the rear (trunk) of the car and there will be space to have a small day pack with you in the car, as well.

Required attitude: Angola is our newest and latest pioneering destination and is considered a novice in tourism and their in- frastructure is quite underdeveloped and hence participants must understand and agree that by joining this trip, they are willing to be flexible and will go with the flow if sudden changes or adjust- ments need to be made. We might have to alter or change the tour sequence, itinerary, accommodations, and facilities depending on many factors and unforeseen impositions by different players. In Angola, things won’t always work as we’re accustomed to them working at home. Travelling in underdeveloped and unnourished destinations requires both patience and a sense of humour.

On Angola & Luanda: The capital city of Angola was the world’s most expensive capital city as recently as 2017, as Luanda bene- fited from the nation’s oil and mineral wealth. But although mo- dernity shows in some areas along mega-development projects, most residents live a life apart from the glitz and glamour of the new skyscrapers. This growth, combined with years of war, has seen the city become a sprawling mass of buildings and people.

Road conditions: They are often poorly maintained and distanc- es between sites of interest can be long. Traveling in Africa can be tiring; it also can be hot and dusty. We aim to solve issues that arise quickly. Outside the capital very few hotels or accommodations options exist so please know we do book the best we can but some- times the best isn’t what you would expect. Bathroom facilities in smaller villages and towns can be very poorly maintained and on long drives we often opt to use the wilderness and bush pit stops.

Spiekermann Travel Service, Inc. 18421 East Nine Mile Road, Eastpointe, MI 48021 Phone: 1-800-645-3233 Fax: 586-775-9556 www.mideasttrvl.com [email protected]