Tag: Culture

Travel to Live, Live to Travel, Travel to Africa!

Experiences,Rhino Africa,Safari
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By Michelle Welvering on

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” This profound statement captures the essence of what it means to set out on a journey, especially one to a continent as vibrant and soul-stirring as Africa. Here’s why you, too, should make travel to Africa a priority, not merely a daydream…

Guests enjoying a cultural experience

Find yourself in Africa, a journey beyond the ordinary, Image Credit: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

Travel Transforms – We Know This Well

At Rhino Africa, we understand that travel is more than just a change of scenery. It’s an invitation to immerse yourself in experiences that are both humbling and enriching. Africa, with its vast landscapes, diverse cultures, and untamed wildlife, offers a rare opportunity to connect with something greater than ourselves.

Uma representação clássica do Parque Nacional Amboseli

The looming mass of Mount Kilimanjaro commands an air of respect

Travel Now

Travel now, we urge you. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Instead, create it. Africa’s heartbeat is pulsating, its rhythms waiting to sync with yours. Here, you’ll find a world where every sunrise is a promise of new discoveries, and where every sunset reflects the beauty of the day’s journey.

Woman enjoying the sunrise in the wilderness from her private deck

Seize the day in Africa, Image Credit: Royal Malewane

Travel with Passion

Travel with passion, with love. Embrace the warmth of Africa’s people, their smiles as bright as the African sun. Engage with cultures stretching back millennia and learn about a different and deeply familiar way of life. In these connections, you’ll find reflections of humanity that resonate deep within.

Local African women smiling after harvesting some vegetables

Connect deeply with Africa’s rich and remarkable cultures, Image Credit: Karin Schermbrucker

Travel for a Fresh Perspective

Travel to breathe, to explore. Allow the wild beauty of Africa to fill your lungs, to expand your horizons. Witness the grandeur of the Serengeti, the tranquillity of the Okavango Delta, and the majesty of the Victoria Falls. These are not just places on a map; they’re sanctuaries for the soul.

Mokoro safari in the Okavango Delta

Embark on an expedition across Africa, Image Credit: Wilderness Vumbura Plains

Travel to Learn

Travel to learn – about life, about you. Africa has a unique way of teaching invaluable lessons, ones that you carry long after the journey ends. It’s a place where you learn to understand different walks of life and find yourself by getting lost in the wonders of the natural world. 

Travel to Africa

Africa is a classroom without walls, teaching life’s essentials, Image Credit: Lemala Mara Tented Camp

Travel to Dream

Travel to dream, to inspire. Let the stories of Africa fuel your aspirations. Be bold in your pursuits, more present in your experiences, more playful in your adventures. From bustling cities, ruby-red deserts and pearly-white beaches to lush, emerald forests and rolling hills, Africa is a canvas, and you’re the artist, painting memories that will colour your life.

Couple enjoying a sailing excursion in a traditional dhow

We make sure that every journey inspires a masterpiece, Image Credit: &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge

Just Travel

Travel here. Just travel. Africa is waiting, its arms open wide, ready to embrace you in an experience that’s as profound as it’s exhilarating.

Cheetah cub and mom

A luxury African safari is life-changing

Travel to Africa

We at Rhino Africa are more than just the leading experts in all things luxury African travel. We’re custodians of dreams, guides to the extraordinary. 

Join us in visiting the wildest corners of the world – for Africa is not just a destination – it’s a feeling, a spirit, a connection to the very essence of life.

Featured Image: Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Top 6 Things to Do in Stone Town, Zanzibar

Experiences,Indian Ocean Islands,Top Lists,Travel Tips
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By Michelle Welvering on

Imagine a place where labyrinthine alleys, ancient architecture, and lively markets combine to create a glorious entanglement of history and exotic flavours. Welcome to Stone Town, Zanzibar! Not only is this destination a gem on its own, but it also seamlessly combines with your East Africa safari, giving you an adventure encompassing the best of both worlds – wildlife and culture. So, join us as we explore winding alleys and bustling streets to uncover the top things to do in Stone Town!

Man exploring the fascinating streets of Stone Town

Old and new worlds collide in Zanzibar’s capital city, Stone Town

1. Historic Walking Tour

Stroll through the alluring alleyways of Stone Town on a historic walking tour and marvel at a mixture of Arabic, African, Persian, and European influenced architecture. Along the way, you’ll encounter an array of abodes adorned with exquisitely carved doorways, complete with fancy metal studs, picturesque overhanging balconies, and windows laced with intricate patterns.

An Islamic man walking through narrow streets of Stone Town

Stone Town is saturated with mosques, churches, temples, and beautiful buildings

But wait, there’s more! This spellbinding saunter will lead you to the House of Wonders, where you’ll be greeted by a marvellous assortment of personal treasures once owned by Zanzibar’s royal rulers. Fancy a detour? Swing by the Old Fort or explore the Sultan’s Palace Museum exhibits.

The Old Fort with courtyard cultural centre and curio shops

A visit to the Old Fort is one of the most popular things to do in Stone Town

2. Christ Church and Old Slave Market Museum

If you’re feeling like a true historian, why not visit one of Zanzibar’s most poignant yet important landmarks? The Christ Church and the Old Slave Market Museum serve as a solemn reminder of a sordid past. It stands on the very site where the infamous slave market once operated during Zanzibar’s dark period between the 17th and 19th centuries.

With compelling exhibits providing insight into the conditions endured by enslaved individuals and the efforts made to abolish this inhumane practice, you’ll learn about the haunting legacy of slavery, contemplate the resilience of those who suffered, and reflect on the importance of human rights and freedom in our shared history.

A stone sculpture depicting the chambers where slaves would be held before being auctioned

The slave market memorial in Stone Town

3. Prison Island Excursion

Wanting to escape the ordinary and looking for things to do in Stone Town? Well, we suggest that you set sail for an extraordinary adventure to Prison Island. But fear not, you won’t be serving time! Instead, you’ll encounter giant tortoises, bask in the warm sun on beautiful beaches, and dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

View of Prison Island from afar

Hang out with giant tortoises, swim or snorkel, and relax on the beach of Prison Island

Located just off the western coast of Zanzibar, this small island, despite its name, has no actual prison. Initially planned as a slave prison, it never held any prisoners and was later transformed into a quarantine island for yellow fever patients during a time long forgotten.

Nowadays, there’s no cause for ailment-related worry on this peculiar isle. Instead, you get to revel in the delightful company of its gargantuan tortoises as you uncover the fascinating tales that cloak its mysterious name.

Giant Tortoise

You’ll find giant tortoises on Prison Island, some as old as 200 years old

4. Visit Darajani Bazaar

Prepare your taste buds for a flavour explosion at Darajani Bazaar, where the air is thick with scents of exotic spices and the hustle and bustle of bargain hunters. It’s a sensory circus that will leave you mesmerised. Stock up on vibrant textiles, indulge in some retail therapy, and savour the spicy symphony only Stone Town can provide!

As one of Stone Town’s primary markets, Darajani Bazaar offers a wide array of goods, including spices, freshly caught fish, meat and fresh produce. However, we recommend taking a moment to observe the lively scene outside the market before venturing in. Outside, you’ll find vendors peddling an assortment of wares, including souvenirs!

Fresh fruit laid out on a tarp on the floor

Stock up on the freshest fruit and vegetables at Stone Town’s Darajani Bazaar

5. Sample Local Cuisine

You didn’t travel all this way just to eat a boring sandwich, did you? Absolutely not! It’s time to unleash your inner food connoisseur because one of the best things to do in Stone Town is to sample the local cuisine! Brace yourself for succulent seafood feasts and fragrant curries that will transport you to a realm of flavour ecstasy.

And let’s not forget about the mind-blowing Zanzibar pizza – a savoury pancake of sorts housing a dizzying array of fillings that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Moreover, make sure not to miss sampling Swahili street food, a delightful fusion of Bantu, Arab, and Indian spices that will redefine your understanding of deliciousness.

Zanzibar pizza

Creative combinations of fillings add a playful twist to your Zanzibar Pizza

6. Stop at Mercury House

The finale (and most fabulous) of the top things to do in Stone Town – particularly for all you music lovers out there! Pay homage to the legendary Freddie Mercury at Freddie Mercury Museum. Now, we know what you’re thinking, “why on earth is there a Freddie museum in Stone Town?” Well, hold onto your hats because we’re about to tell you…

Exterior of Mercury House

Find out about Freddie’s life and his enduring impact on the world of music, Image Credit: Freddie Mercury Museum, Zanzibar

Freddie (originally named Farrokh Bulsara) was born on 5 September 1946 in Zanzibar, Stone Town. That’s right, he’s a bona fide Zanzibari! And the Freddie Mercury Museum, affectionately known as “Mercury House”, is the very same house where Freddie and his family lived before moving to England in 1963.

Step inside and immerse yourself in the memorabilia, photographs, and treasures that celebrate the life and legacy of the rock ‘n’ roll icon himself. It’s a must-visit spot for all the Bohemians out there!

Inside of the museum featuring posters of Queen in their hay-day

Showcasing Freddie’s extraordinary journey from childhood and beyond, Image Credit: Freddie Mercury Museum, Zanzibar

Captivating Stone Town is Calling

As you may have surmised, Stone Town’s labyrinthine alleys hold an abundance of surprises awaiting at every turn. Whether exploring its eclectic streets, indulging in a feast of flavours, or immersing yourself in the resounding echoes of history, each moment spent in this remarkable destination promises the unexpected and unforgettable.

So, prepare to ignite your sense of curiosity and start planning your escape to the captivating realm of Stone Town.

A “Crash” Course on Inclusive Culture

Doing Good,Rhino Africa
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By Michelle Welvering on

Welcome to Rhino Africa, where we, the Rhino Crash, come together and celebrate the diversity of our team. We break free from the chains of race, culture, religion, and disabilities – extending a warm embrace to the kaleidoscope of identities and orientations that make our LGBTQ+ members shine! With our unique backgrounds, perspectives, and talents, we roam freely in a culture that treasures every individual. Join us as we explore what it truly means to be part of the Rhino Africa family.

A motley crew of extraordinary beings, hailing from every corner of the cosmos

Embracing Our Peculiar Patchwork

One of the core pillars of Rhino Africa’s culture is the embracement of diversity. Like a vibrant tapestry, our team comprises individuals from all walks of life, speaking a symphony of languages, and bringing a burst of diverse perspectives to the table.

We cherish the fact that each team member adds their own splash of colour to the canvas, creating a masterpiece that’s uniquely Rhino Africa. We don’t conform to the norm – we revel in the delightful chaos of our differences, which breathe life into our team and allow us to serve our guests like no other.

“Diversity at Rhino Africa extends beyond race and gender, it encompasses a wide spectrum of personal characteristics, including age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability and more.” – Barry

Aerial shot of the Rhino Africa team waving from the roof of HQ

Our Rhino Crash is a quirky mix of travellers and adventurers

We are all Rockstars in our Inclusive Jam Sessions

Inclusiveness is the key that unlocks the power of our diversity. We don’t just preach it, we live it. From the moment we joined the Rhino Crash, we entered a world where every voice counts, and every idea is shared, debated, and nurtured. We thrive on lively discussions, spirited debates, and the magical alchemy that happens when diverse minds collide. 

In our collaborative cauldron, there are no wrong answers, only a chorus of perspectives that blend together to create harmony. It’s a place where weird and wonderful ideas are nurtured, where every team member’s unique brilliance can shine and contribute to our collective success.

“We can truly be ourselves at Rhino Africa. It’s quite common for laughs to be heard in the office, songs to be sung out at any moment, and to feel comfortable in expressing our feelings.” – Cayleigh

Rhino Africa staff members sharing knowledge and brain storming

With a world of knowledge and diverse skills, we are an unstoppable force

Unleashing the “Quirkster” Within

Forget about fitting into a neat little box. At Rhino Africa, we celebrate individuality like nobody’s business! We revel in the rainbow of peculiarities that make us truly extraordinary. As such, each member of our Rhino Crash is encouraged to unleash their authentic selves, quirks and all, adding a sprinkle of sparkle to our work.In this glittering arena of acceptance, our true colours shine bright, creating an atmosphere bursting with creativity, innovation, and, of course, a healthy dose of quirkiness we’ve become known for.

Two members of the Rhino Crash at a work function having fun

We don’t shy away from getting our quirk on!

Building Bridges and Beyond

But our mission continues beyond the walls of Rhino Africa. We’re on a quest to build bridges and connect communities – both near and far. We believe in the transformative power of unity, so we put our cape-wearing superhero suits on to champion these values.

Through strategic alliances with impactful organisations and initiatives like the Good Work Foundation, Khumbulani Day Care Centre, and The Wildlife ACT, we broaden our understanding, foster empathy, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world.

“We love Africa, we love people, we’re all about conservation, and we believe in creating an impact while making dreams come true.” – Elizabeth​

Rhino Africa champions initiatives to ensure the empowerment, education, and protection of local communities

Rhino Africa champions initiatives to ensure the empowerment, education, and protection of local communities

Proud (Family) Members of the Crash

Being part of the Rhino Crash is an honour we cherish deeply. We’re not just coworkers; we’re a tribe bonded by our shared values and a relentless passion for what we do. Together, we form an unstoppable brigade, charging through the realms of possibility and turning dreams into reality.

In our Crash, we find courage, inspiration, and a love so fierce it could move mountains. We highlight each other’s triumphs, lift each other up when the going gets tough, and create a safe haven where every team member can spread their wings and soar to new heights.

“At Rhino Africa, we’re surrounded by people who’ll laugh with you, not at you. We create bonds with our colleagues that stretch beyond working hours, forming actual lifelong relationships. You really get the feeling of one big blended family.” – Courtney​

To Rhino Africa Crash members hugging

Working at Rhino Africa is not just a job, it’s a way of life

All-Encompassing African Adventures

We consider it an honour to be part of Rhino Africa, an organisation that not only acknowledges the beauty of diversity and inclusivity but throws a lavish party in its honour. 

Join the celebration as we curate a personalised journey through Africa just for you. It’s time to embrace uniqueness, embody unity, and embark on an adventure like no other. 

Follow us @rhinoafrica