Located off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde is one of the continent’s best-kept island secrets. The archipelago of 10 islands has recently been attracting more and more island hoppers looking for a tropical destination that’s still relatively unknown and secluded. The islands’ blend of Brazilian and West African cultures boosts the excitement level of Cape Verde, and if you’re a watersports fanatic, this is the destination for you. From daytime surfing to nighttime dancing, Cape Verde’s perfect for the adventurous and curious spirit.

The island of Fogo (Portuguese for "fire") is made up almost entirely of an active volcano that last erupted in 1995. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Moises.on

 Here Are the Top 5 Activities in Cape Verde:

1. Local Cuisine: Cape Verde has a rich ethnic culture that blends Portuguese and Senegalese customs and traditions; that blending is happily reflected in the country’s amazing cuisine. Be sure to try canja (a rich chicken soup) and cachupa (a stew of hominy, beans, and either fish or meat), two local dishes you are bound to like. Aguardiente is the local sugarcane rum, and it’s gaining in popularity in the United States; be sure to try it while you’re in Cape Verde.

2. Sal’s Salt Mines: The salt mines of Sal were built inside dormant volcanoes. The caves are truly impressive, and we highly recommend seeing them.

3. Water Sports: Windsurfing, surfing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and waterskiing are all must-do activities in Cape Verde. Organize your itinerary with your hotel before setting out.

4. Island Hopping: The four top islands to visit are Sal, São Vicente, Praia, and Cidade Velha. All the islands offer wonderful natural viewing and plenty of comfortable places to stay.

5. São’s Submarine Tour:It’s rare that tourists can say that they’ve ridden in a real submarine. In that respect, tourists to Cape Verde are truly lucky. Make sure to book a submarine tour of this island to see remarkable oceanic flora and fauna from a 360-degree viewpoint.

Founded in 1615, the town of Praia de Santa Maria was long a favored commercial port for Portuguese trade ships. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Moises.on

When to go

The weather is beautiful all year round, the temperature usually about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Cape Verde’s geographical position, at the northern limit of the tropical rain belt, leaves the country with very little rainfall. Although it’s highly unlikely, if rainfall is to occur, it’s usually between August and September. There is no “perfect” time to visit Cape Verde because the weather is fantastic throughout the year.

Visiting a rainforest is a unique nature experience. During the day, these unique biomes burst with a busy buzz and bright flashes of colour. At night, the air comes alive with the shrieks and calls of the forest’s many nocturnal creatures. Cicadas drone, bats flap beneath the canopy, a monkey howls in the distance.

Amidst all this natural beauty, it’s important to tread lightly. Remember that rainforests today cover just six percent of the earth, yet they are home to an estimated 40 to 75 percent of all the world’s plants and animals, including many still just being discovered. Sadly, despite efforts to protect them, many habitats are continue to be endangered by logging and overdevelopment.

The tropical rainforest habitat is home to between 40 to 75 percent of the world’s plants and animals. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Tatters

Well-planned ecotourism is one key to rainforests’ continued survival. It places value on preservation of nature as a commercial resource. Reputable tour outfits offer employment opportunities for locals as leaders and wildlife guides, enabling them to earn their money through sustainable and environmentally responsible forms of income. Travellers’ passion for traditional culture encourages locals to continue ancient forest-friendly practices.

Before your next escape to the rainforest, do some research in advance. The right tour operator and a great local guide can help you spot wildlife and make the most of any adventure.

Get Up Close to the Real Rainforest in Corcovado, Costa Rica

Away from the crowds of much-visited Monteverde, another sort of park awaits visitors in Costa Rica. National Geographic once labelled Corcovado National Park as “the most biologically intense place on earth,” and you’d be hard pressed to prove them wrong. Accessible via Puerto Jimenez along the Osa Penninsula, the  425-square-kilometre park is one of the last places to spot jaguars in Central America. It is also home to endangered species such as the Baird’s tapir, Harpy eagle, ocelots and more. Staying overnight in the park is strongly recommended, possible in a basic, budget and rustic eco-lodge or one of several ranger stations.

The Bolaven Plateau in the Champasak Province of southern Laos is known for its many scenic waterfalls. Photo courtesy of Miranda Siu

Climb High in the Champasak Province of Laos

Well known for its collection of ancient Khmer ruins, Champasak Province of southern Laos contains a wealth of natural thrills in the form of beautiful jungles and raging waterfalls. Wildlife enthusiasts can try to spot rare and endangered species like yellow-cheeked gibbons, Asian elephants and Irrawaddy dolphins, while other adventures await thrill seekers who head high above the treetops. Two- and three-day zip line treks allow travellers to unleash their inner Tarzan in the canopy of this semi-evergreen forest.

Become Better Acquainted with the Jungle in Borneo

The tropical island of Borneo is home to some of the world’s oldest rainforest. As a nature lover’s paradise, it is also one of the last natural habitats for endangered animals such as the Bornean orangutan, Clouded leopard and several native bat species. Guided trips can be booked from cities such as Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan on the Malaysian side, or Banjarmasin on the Indonesia side.  In addition to being thrilling, night-time jungle treks are probably the best way to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Encounter a City Lost in the Jungles of Colombia

The dense jungles that constitute Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains are the historic domain of the early Tayrona civilisation. Among the ancient chiefdom’s best known archaeological sites is Ciudad Perdida (the “Lost City”), accessible via a six-day guided trek through a dense tropical forest. Hikers depart from Santa Marta, the city along Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The trek includes lots of opportunities to learn about the area’s indigenous people – descendants of the Tayrona – and plenty of time for spotting wildlife such as tapirs, deer and endemic hummingbirds.

Observe Life in the Amazing Amazon of Brazil

Capital of the Brazilian state of Amazonas, the city of Manaus is a popular point of departure for ecotourists visiting the Amazon region.  From this gateway city, visitors can easily arrange regional cruises that visit remote communities along the Amazon River or schedule boat transfers to jungle lodges and resorts with river-view bungalows. The Brazilian Amazon famously encompasses 33 percent of all the world’s surviving tropical rainforests and its biodiversity is unparalleled. One in five of the world’s fish species is found in its waters, while the jungle itself boasts 2.5 million recorded insect species and is home to a wide collection of endangered animals like spider monkeys, jaguars and poison dart frogs. Enjoy the best of the river and the surrounding rainforest.

The port city of Manaus, Brazil, is a gateway to the incredible Amazon region. Photo by Rodolpho Emanuel

Revel in the Natural Beauty of Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest

Extending for over 1,000 kilometres, Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park is the largest protected area of high-altitude montane rainforest in Africa. Nestled in the heart of one of the continent’s most biodiverse regions – the Albertine Rift – Nyungwe boasts an exotic collection of rare orchids and endemic birds, as well as a large concentration of primates. Anyone looking to track chimps, however, will need to spend some time here. For the best chance at sighting mankind’s closest relative, consider booking a guided trip in the forests of Nyungwe.

To learn more about about jungle adventures on The Travel Word, read about travellers’ hiking and trekking experiences in some of the planet’s most exciting jungles.

He is a member of the Jabaleya tribe, one of the seven tribes of the South Sinai region. This unique tribe is a mixture of Arab and Eastern European blood, descendants of the soldiers of Emperor Justinian, who brought them in to guard the Monastery of St. Katherine. The Jabaleya continue to be passionate about the monastery, one of the oldest continually inhabited monasteries in the world and home to some of the oldest icons and most precious early manuscripts of Christianity, including the oldest bible in the world.

St. Katherine Protectorate is a delicate, high-altitude desert ecosystem that was established in 1988. Over 300 different species of  flora have been recorded in the area, including 20 found nowhere else in the world. Covering about 4,350 square kilometres of land in the southern Sinai Peninsula, the protectorate also supports mammal species, including the rock hyrax, Nubian ibex, Dorcas gazelle, red fox. It even hosts about 35 different reptile species, the majority which are endemic to the region.

Today, pilgrims come to climb Mt. Sinai (2285 metres) and see the place where, according to the Old Testament, the Prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments. Most travellers come to experience the sunrise, so partaking in an afternoon ascent allows trekkers to have the mountain nearly all to themselves.

A truly unique experience puts travellers in touch with the local people, including during an overnight just near the base of the mountain. Here, travellers set up camp with a Bedouin guide. The Bedouin are very honest and gentle people who are ‘at one with nature’ and expert gardeners. Visitors have the chance to walk through an area called Wadi Itlah, which is charmingly sprinkled with Bedouin- and monk-owned gardens from which are sourced the ingredients for lunch. The tour through the fields includes instruction about almonds, apricots and some authentic hybrid fruits crafted by the locals.

This Photo of the Week is offered as part of U.S. National Tourist Appreciation Day.

In the United States, $15,000 may buy you a used car, a family vacation of sorts, or maybe even a half-year’s tuition at a state university or a private school in a big city.

In Tanzania, that same $15,000 covers the entire annual budget for the Jifundishe Free Library in Ngongongare Village in the Arusha District of northern Tanzania. Jifundishe is one of only a handful of free, independent community libraries in the entire country and is now the model for a new community library initiative taking place across the country.

At Jifundishe, that $15,000 pays for the staff of eight; a large assortment of magazines and newspapers; maintenance fees; study materials, markers, paper and ink; adult literacy classes; children’s programs; an Independent Study program; Internet access; special offerings including movie nights, medical exams, mosquito net distribution, and more.

The Jifundishe Free Library in rural northern Tanzania offers a wide range of community programs that include adult literacy classes, children’s workshops, an Independent Study program and much more. Photo by Anne Wells

And to assess the community impact of this modest investment, all you need to do is look around.

At one of the six laptops in the small, window-lined computer lab at the front of the main building, Amani H. Amani, 24, tutors a 35-year-old woman who has come to learn about the Internet. Not long ago, Amani was the student. At 15, he left home after dropping from school due to family struggles and poverty. Amani went to work on a flower farm and held little hope on finishing his education. However, after hearing about the Jifundishe library and its free access to text books, he moved hundreds of miles to come learn. Amani lives in a small room in the village and supports himself through odd jobs, such as slashing grasses and tutoring students for cooking oil and rice. After more than four years of perseverance and hard work, studying day in and day out at the library and through Jifundishe’s Independent Study (IS) program, Amani was recently one of seven students to prepare for, and pass, the Tanzanian equivalent of the GED exam, which makes him eligible for university.

The local Jifundishe Knitting Club knits wares which are sold at library fundraisers across America. Photo by Anne Wells

During Jifundishe’s IS program’s first year in 2010, 27 students, ages 15 to 55, received access to necessary textbooks, regularly scheduled classes by volunteer teachers, kerosene for evening study at home, and funds to take the exam itself. One-hundred percent of those taking the Form 4 exam passed, as compared to only 50 percent from government schools. Seventy-five percent of Jifundishe’s IS students who sat for the Form 2 exam passed, as compared to only 30 percent from government schools.

At a long table between the stacks that hold the library’s 5,000-plus books, Isaac Nanyaro, the head teacher from the local Imbaseni Primary School, works up new lesson plans. Isaac meets many of his students here at Jifundishe and attributes his school’s 75 percent rise in test scores over the past few years directly to the library’s provision of access to text books and tutors. “We have no funds for books,” says Nanyaro, whose 20 teachers are responsible for nearly 1,000 students. “Even our teachers come to the library to further their own studies.”

Outside on the back porch, curled up in a shiny red wheelchair, sits Goodness, a severely disabled woman who spent the first 25 or so years of her life (no one knows exactly how old she is, including Goodness) tucked away in her family’s mud home. Since the first library opened in 2005, Goodness’s brothers have carried her back and forth one mile each way from her home. At the library, she visits with patrons and works closely with staff and volunteers. Over the years, Goodness has learned to read and write, and knit, too. With her gnarled, bowed hands, she makes some of the most beautiful puppets, hats, and scarves the Jifundishe Knitting Club has ever seen. Each club member is paid by the library for her wares, which are then sold at fundraisers across America. Within her first year of working with the club, Goodness earned enough to purchase her first proper wheelchair.

Further out back in the neatly manicured garden, at a lawn table tucked in the shade of some trees, Angelina Laisser, 56, works with Jifundishe’s women’s cooperative, Jiendeleze (“advance yourself”), to make Barefoot Beads, a unique jewelry product for the feet. Angelina and the other five women in the cooperative are paid by the library for each item they produce and then an equal amount is deposited into a collective fund, which the women manage themselves. Their first fund was used to pay for them all to travel to Arusha to have their eyes checked. For most of the women, it was their first and only time ever seeing a doctor of any kind. Their second fund was used to purchase seeds for planting in their small fields. The collective’s “Barefoot Beads” are sold mostly in Tanzanian coastal resorts.

Angelina combines her Jiendeleza income with the money she earns from her piggery, which she started after finding a book at the library about how to raise and care for pigs, to care for her three children and ailing mother.

Goodness, a local patron, has been coming to the library since 2005. Through her skillful knitting she earned enough to purchase a proper wheelchair and has also learned to read and write. Photo by Anne Wells

In the community room, a separate building to the left of the courtyard, Doricas Unvanjoka, 16, works with a Canadian volunteer to practice her English. Doricas, her mother, and five brothers and sisters were abandoned by her father years ago and left with no home, no money, and no land. Today, Doricas is one of Jifundishe’s 40 ‘Houston’ scholarship students. The program was started by Annie and Andre Houston after Annie visited Tanzania in 2007, and it covers the complete cost of a four-year education at a government school, which is about $1,000–$1,200. Each year, more than 50 students apply for three to five coveted spots. Doricas’s oldest sister, Debora, was one of the first Houston scholars. She graduated from secondary school and is now studying nursing in Moshi, supported financially by former Jifundishe volunteers from the United Kingdon.

The secret to Jifundishe’s success? “While we are always struggling to make ends meet, we are blessed with a dedicated staff, a phenomenal group of international volunteers, and an involved and committed Board,” says executive director Deb Kelly, 55, who made Tanzania her home after founding Jifundishe in 2003. “And our community cares deeply for this library and embraces it as their own, so ultimately, it is.”

Next:

• Part IV Beyond Books in Tanzania: The Maktaba Project & The New Tanzanian Community Library Association

Anne Wells is the founder and director of UNITE The World With Africa, a social organization working to provide impactful connections, resources and expertise to help advance women’s health, education and microfinance programs in Tanzania. She recently launched a new online store called The Ashe’ Collection, a 100% philanthropic initiative to grow an international demand for African artistry and raise funds to support UNITE’s work in East Africa. For more information, email Anne at atmwells(at)gmail(dot)com.

Kyabobo (pronounced CHAY-a-bobo) may not be easy to reach, via rough roads from either the north or the south, but travellers note it is well worth the effort. Get there and you will be rewarded: chances are that you won’t cross paths with another tourist the entire time.

In Ghana, Kyabobo National Park is set against the unmistakable twin peaks knowns locally as the Breast Mountains. Photo courtesy of Leif Ryman

Covering New Terrain

Kyabobo is Ghana’s newest national park, stretching over 360 square kilometres and contiguous with Fazao National Park, just across the border in Togo. Seen from a distance, Kyabobo’s Breast Mountains, so named for the distinctive shape of two adjacent hills, are at its front door. The rest of the park is surrounded by dry plains that rise into hilly terrain covered in semi-deciduous forest.

Nkwanta is the nearest town and the gateway to Kyabobo. About four kilometres from the park headquarters, it is on the main north-south road running from the Volta region to northern Ghana in the area between Lake Volta and Togo. Since Kyabobo is really the only tourist draw in the area and well off Ghana’s tourist circuits, not many travellers make it Nkwanta. There are a couple of good reasons why, the main being how long and dusty the road is. By public transport, it can take two days to reach Nkwanta from Tamale with at least one transfer. There is also direct transportation from Accra that takes around eight hours.

Given the challenges of getting to Kyabobo, it is well worth staying a few days. Fortunately there are some good options for accommodation in the area. The Gateway and Kilimanjaro are good hotels in Nkwanta. At the park headquarters there are two nicely equipped guesthouses, each with a kitchen and bathroom, and camping sites. There are a number of other camps within the park, including a platform on top of a mountain ridge overlooking the shrine of the village of Kue.

A bridged trailhead leads the way into Ghana's Kyabobo National Park and toward a waterfall. Photo courtesy of Leif Ryman

Nature and Culture in Kyabobo

Everyone who enjoys the outdoors will find something exciting at Kyabobo, especially the network of trails for hiking, waterfalls to visit, biking, camping, canoeing, wildlife viewing and inner tubing on the Kue River. Hiking is the best way to explore the park. While there are some great trails only a couple of hours long or day hikes to waterfalls, others span the entire park and can take several days to complete involving some solitary camping. To get a good feel for the park, try the four-hour round-trip trek to Laboum Falls. You can extend it with another hour or two of hiking to the upper falls.

During any activity, animals to be spotted in the park include elephants, leopards, buffalo, waterbuck and several primate species. Unfortunately, due to the density of the forest and the steep hilly terrain, not everyone will be lucky enough to spy much large wildlife, although there are smaller more visible species bushbuck and duikers. You can also count on seeing butterflies and birds. Recent park surveys indicate the presence of at least 500 species of butterflies and 235 birds.

The symbol for the park is the rock hyrax, which is a large and very common rodent in Ghana, sometimes called a grass cutter. Roadside merchants often sell them… in the form of kabobs. In the wild, they are often seen on rocky outcroppings within the park.

For culture buffs, surrounding the park are a number of small communities called the Hanging Villages. They are said to resemble villages in the Himalayas that hug the sides of the mountains. Some even have shrines and hikes around the villages that guests can experience after visiting and drinking local gin with the chief. They’re accessible on foot or by bicycle. Travellers can even enjoy settling into village life with an overnight homestay.

A staff guide from the Wildlife Division of Ghana in Kyabobo National Park demonstrates how a leaf can be used as a cup to drink water. Photo courtesy of Leif Ryman

An Ecotourism Future

The park represents a very interesting attempt to balance the goals of environmental protection, ecotourism and the preservation of endangered communities. It is an ongoing experiment with high stakes – the survival of the area’s natural and human environment.

Organisation at Kyabobo is still in its early stages, however, so be patient and persistent when seeking information. Right now, a new visitors’ area definitely serves as an essential part of the learning experience – you can at least count on finding brochures at the park entrance – and the proceeds help the surrounding communities.

Additionally, for the host communities, ecotourism means “improved livelihood activities” or jobs as guides, cooks and craftspeople. The income generated from the park is used for local development projects, like bringing electricity to nearby communities and providing materials for the construction of schools and toilets.

If you are looking for an active vacation to a naturally beautiful and undiscovered part of Ghana, and if you are interested in contributing to a vital and ongoing real-world learning experience, Kyabobo Park is well worth the dusty road trip it takes to get there and back.

This mystical and iconic figure can mainly be found in the northern parts of Kruger National Park. While you are likely to be taken aback by its presence and history, it also gives an exciting feeling of freedom and inspires a desire to explore this area, as many generations before have done.

You will therefore not be the first to enjoy the splendour that this tree has to offer, to man and beast alike. You will certainly not be the last. The baobab has been a source of materials and food for millennia. Its leaves are edible and the tree bears a delicious fruit that offers a valuable source of nutrition. Its mighty trunk also stores huge amounts of water to protect against the hardships the tree has to endure.

In many ways the Baobab is a perfect symbol for Earth Day. It is a mighty testament to Earth’s resilience and its ability to provide for us.

“When I spend time underneath a Baobab tree, it feels as if time stands still. It feels like it is cheering me on in life ‘come on, I have done it, you can too.’ ” – Anonymous

For centuries, high-minded travellers, wise men and ladies alike, have sought out the world’s mountains, revelling in the challenge of the climb and capturing in photographs and ink the terrific views and exaltation that come at the end of long and strenuous hikes.

Ridge-rambling adventurers are, if anything, more numerous today than ever before. Fortunately, mountain treks abound, gauged to hikers of all abilities. Some require the fortitude of serious mountaineers, while others are long and leisurely strolls that wind comfortably through the highlands.

Sound inspiring? It is. Looking for some ideas? Consider the following mountain treks for ecotourists and hikers of all stripes. Remember: No matter what your level of expertise, it’s always advisable to plan ahead due to the isolation and changeable weather of higher altitudes.

At the guesthouse in Thethi village in the Albanian Alps, travelers will discover the true hospitality of Albania's highlanders in an incredible panoramic setting. Photo courtesy of Gent Mati at shkoder-albanian-alps.com.

Trek Through Local Villages in the Albanian Alps

Northern Albania boasts some beautiful mountain treks that see very little traffic, even in the summer season. Several tour companies lead trips from the city of Shkoder (a centre of Albanian culture dominated by a massive fortress) across the canyons of beautiful Lake Koman. With scenery similar to a Norwegian fjord, the area around the lake is a spectacular gateway to the snow-capped Albanian Alps.

Ideal for intermediate hikers, footing between local villages in the valleys of Valbona and Theth is a lovely way to experience the Albanian countryside. Along the way, trekkers can bed down in comfortable village guesthouses and savour locally produced delicacies such as sheep’s cheese, freshly baked bread and homemade raki.

Lamas often accompany hikers on various hikes throughout Peru. Photo courtesy of Pieter Roos at cusco-hotel.travel.

Follow an Alternate Route to Historic Machu Picchu, Peru

Most people who hike to the ancient Andean city of Machu Picchu do so via Peru’s famous Inca Trail. The trek is unforgettable but by no means a wilderness experience, with many groups of other hikers sleeping where you sleep and summitting the steep mountain passes right beside you.

For trekkers keen on a different sort of journey, the Lares route is a great alternative for reaching the ruins of the historic Incan city. Departing from Cusco to the trailhead of Quisuarani, this moderate climb visits several traditional villages still inhabited by indigenous farmers. It then winds past the beautiful jagged peaks of the Andes along a more remote route that allows for an up-close look at the rural life of Peru’s native peoples.

Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, is strenuous and scenic climb. Photo courtesy of Gunyah

Climb the Classic High Peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

There are six official trekking routes up Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Of these, the steep Machame route is known as the most scenic. Beginning from the Machame Gate at the southern base of the mountain, hikers pass through wildlife-filled rainforests before heading up to the Shira Plateau for spectacular views overlooking the moorland, Kibo and Western Breach. Capping out at 5,895 metres above sea level, this strenuous high-altitude climb is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Armenia's rough and mountainous terrain holds many challenging trails for hikers. Photo courtesy of Gunyah

Explore the rugged volcanic terrain in Armenia

Draped across the South Caucasus Mountains, the rugged upland Republic of Armenia is already well on its way to becoming a popular destination for all sorts of outdoor escapes.

From the high altitudes of Lake Sevan, travellers glimpse the typical scenery found throughout Armenia’s countryside. For adventurous souls, one beautiful but challenging trek takes off through the Khosrov National Forest Reserve and climbs up toward the Geghama Volcanic Plateau. The truly intrepid can choose to venture further to 3,597-metre-high Mount Azhdahak, a mysterious place with numerous prehistoric petroglyphs overlooking a vast volcanic crater.

Banff National Park in Canada's Rocky Mountains is home to a large population of mountain goats. Photo courtesy of Gunyah

Hike the Rocky Mountains of western Canada

Canada’s Rocky Mountains boast some of the world’s finest scenery for hikers. High up in the national parks of British Colombia and Alberta, beautiful alpine trails wind through gorgeous meadows and forest, past spectacular waterfalls and streams.

Hikers headed to this pristine region should be sure to experience its numerous highlights, easily visited on a mountain-trekking tour. Three popular must-see parks include Wells Gray Provincial Park and the Jasper and Banff National Parks. Visitors in these areas will encounter many historic sites of the First Nation tribes with the chance to explore icefields, glaciers and steep alpine plateaus.

Discover more amazing mountain treks, as well as a host of other outdoor and adventure-travel experiences.

Often described as one of Africa’s last frontiers, Mozambique, a large country in the southeastern part of the continent, is among the most variegated places in the world. Geographically, it has a rugged, underdeveloped north, a hiker’s paradise, along with an extensive coastline with innumerable opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The population is just as diverse, reflecting the indigenous African tribes who first settled there, the Arab seafarers who traded along the coast for centuries, and, finally, the Portuguese colonists who ruled until 1975. Despite the many setbacks that have plagued the country since then, including civil war, floods and drought, Mozambique is starting to bounce back and is slowly gaining a well-deserved reputation as a country that promises as much adventure as relaxation.

1. Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park: A massive swath of land that comprises national parks in Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe and allows visitors to cross the borders freely within the park, Limpopo is home to nearly 150 kinds of mammals, including elephants, giraffes and buffalo.

2. Gorongosa National Park: This once-legendary park in northern Mozambique was nearly destroyed during the country’s civil war. Now newly refurbished, it’s returning to its former preeminence and is worth a visit to check out impalas, warthogs, unusual birds and more.

3. Local Fare: In Maputo, feast on some of the ultrafresh seafood caught off Mozambique’s 2,500-kilometer-long coastline; the grilled prawns and octopus are especially good.

4. Montes Chimanimani: Along the Zimbabwe border, this mountain range, thick with pine and mahogany trees and scores of medicinal plants, is ideal for rugged, off-the-beaten-path hiking and camping.

5. Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island): This tiny island off Mozambique’s northern coast was once an important Arab trading port; today its historic, colonial-era buildings and diverse population, with strong Islamic and African ties, make it a fascinating place to explore.

The archipelago das Quirimbas is a collection of 32 coral islands off the Coast of Mozambique. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Spacmonster

6. Archipelago das Quirimbas: These 32 islands off the town of Pemba, which can be reached by motorboat, offer white-sand beaches, snorkeling among coral reefs, and sightings of humpback whales.

7. Ponta de Ouro: Just miles from the South African border in southern Mozambique, this quaint town boasts some of the country’s loveliest beaches and opportunities to scuba dive among dolphins.

8. Lago Niassa: A giant, incredibly clear lake that borders Mozambique, Malawi and Tanzania, Niassa (also known as Lake Malawi) is thought to contain a greater number of fish than any other lake in the world.

9. Angoche: A quiet, historic town in the northern part of the country that still bears the influence of precolonial Swahili and Arab traders, Angoche is worth a quick trip for a look back in time.

10. Manica: Once an important gold trading area, this picturesque town in central Mozambique is now known for its thousand-year-old Chinamapere rock paintings, which are considered sacred by local residents.

Maputo is the capital and largest city of Mozambique. Photo courtesy of Andrew Moir

When to Go

The best time to visit Mozambique is between May and October, when it’s pleasantly sunny and dry and temperatures average 66 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 degrees Celcius.) The country’s rainy season generally lasts from October to April, with temperatures jumping up to the 80s (20s). Overall, the southern part of the country is cooler and drier than the north.

Dozens of kilometers from the nearest paved main road, in the midst of bush lands speckled with narrow dirt paths and tiny homes made of mud and sticks, sits the Jifundishe Free Library. Nestled in the remote rural village of Ngongongare in the Arusha District of Northern Tanzania, on a 2.7-acre plot with views of both Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro, this 2,200-square-foot, yellow-cream colored cement building is home to more than 5,000 books; textbooks for every subject through primary, secondary and university; six new laptop computers that provide free Internet service; and assorted newspapers and magazines.

In the remote Ngongongare village of Northern Tanzania, the 2,200-square-foot Jifundishe Free Library provides residents with books for study and also has a computer lab. Photo courtesy of Anne Wells

Out back, the manicured yard is decorated with gardens of flowering indigenous trees and shrubs. Dozens of people study at the six picnic tables and under the shade of the trees. Children chatter away in the nearby community room while exploring books organized into neat rows in colorful buckets on the floor – accessible to all. To the right, there is a small staff house and an outhouse for the latrines.

Each day, hundreds of villagers – ages 2 to 82 – come here, often from miles and miles away, to study, work, learn and play. They fill the buildings, the tables, the stairs, the yard; and never a penny or shilling changes hands. This Jifundishe Free Library is one of only a handful of free, independent rural libraries in Tanzania. It is also the model for a new community library initiative taking place across the country.

The rural library boasts a collection of more than 5,000 books, including textbooks for every subject through the primary, secondary and university levels. Photo courtesy of Anne Wells

The vision of American Deb Kelly, 55, Jifundishe (which means ‘teach yourself’ in Swahili) is a Tanzanian nongovernmental organization that was created to provide educational opportunities to rural communities. Deb, who first traveled to Tanzania in 2001 as a volunteer, built the library in response to a request from local villagers. “One day in 2005, I asked some villagers what they wanted most,” recalls Kelly. “Their response? Not electricity, potable water, roads or even money. They wanted books!”

To test the waters, Deb rented a tiny building with two rooms from a local family for $15 a month. There was no electricity, shelves or furniture; just an empty space. She called on her friends in the United States to send money and books, and together with a group of Tanzanian and American volunteers, Deb set about organizing a library.

“We sorted through the donated books – the nonfiction, fiction, children’s books, and textbooks – and separated the relevant, useful books from the useless,” recalls American librarian, Ann Hanin, 67, who incorporated the U.S.-based non-profit Project A.B.L.E. to raise funds for Jifundishe. “We cataloged books, arranged them on the shelves using rocks as bookends, placed the children’s books in baskets for easy access, trained the librarian, and we were ready!”

In November of 2005, the Imbaseni Free Library opened its doors to a curious village audience. “Most of these people had never seen a library before and really had no concept of what it was,” recalls Chrissy Burnham, 29, Jifundishe’s long-term volunteer and current treasurer. “The students were the most eager. Then the men came to read newspapers on the porch. Next, the children came to sit on laps and rifle through pencil boxes. The women were the most hesitant. They were expected to be home working. Many had never attended school. It took a few months, but eventually they made their way, staked out a few picnic tables on the lawn, and started engaging in literacy classes, women’s groups and more.”

It didn’t take long before Deb and her team realized a need for a larger space. “There were always lines of villagers, as far as the eye could see,” recalls Deb. “Thanks to the generosity of the Crawford-Smith Foundation, Project A.B.L.E and many others, we were able to raise the $60,000 necessary to construct our new Jifundishe Free Library.”

In January 2009, the new, solar-powered Jifundishe Free Library opened its doors in the Ngongongare Village. The event was marked by a large ceremony, which included the district commissioner and other local government officials, the Tanzanian Ambassador to the United Nations, local school representatives, villagers and the library’s lead donors – Ann Hanin of Project A.B.L.E. and Stephen and Judith Smith, founders of the Crawford-Smith Foundation.

Inside the library, six new laptop computers provide free Internet access. Photo courtesy of Anne Wells

Today Jifundishe continues to fulfill its role as a vibrant and active library and community center by offering scholarship programs, independent study programs, eye and dental clinics, malaria prevention clinics, net distribution, book clubs, computer classes, women’s empowerment groups and classes, movie nights, children’s reading programs and much more.

And, as it goes, nothing is left unused: The old Imbaseni Free Library building is now home to a village family.

For more information, visit www.jifundishe.org and www.projectablefoundation.org.

Next:
• Part III Beyond Books in Tanzania: “What a Difference a Library Can Make”
• Part IV Beyond Books in Tanzania: The Maktaba Project & The New Tanzanian Community Library Association

Anne Wells is the founder and director of UNITE The World With Africa, a social organization working to provide impactful connections, resources and expertise to help advance women’s health, education and microfinance programs in Tanzania. She recently launched a new online store called The Ashe’ Collection, a 100% philanthropic initiative to grow an international demand for African artistry and raise funds to support UNITE’s work in East Africa. For more information, email Anne at atmwells(at)gmail(dot)com.

Volunteer vacationers are as diverse as our planet’s incredible range of environments and abundance of people. From protecting turtles’ eggs to delivering vital medical supplies, there’s something out there for everyone.

At Much Better Adventures, we work with a host of the world’s leading volunteer holiday providers, bringing the best under one roof. Here are just five worth your consideration.

Horseback riding and humanitarian aid go together with Relief Riders International

Deliver Humanitarian Aid on Horseback

For thrill seekers, nothing can beat cantering through the deserts of northern West India. This vast, unspoilt region is ripe for exploration. But it’s remoteness works against it too: many Rajasthan residents suffer from poor medical infrastructure. Deliveries of equipment and expertise are therefore vital.

So if you have plans to be in the area, why not add to the depth of your experience by volunteering on an important humanitarian mission? Horses are excellent for carrying supplies, so load them up with medical equipment. By helping out, you’re able to make a real difference to locals’ lives, while having an epic adventure yourself.

Teach English in Borneo, Malaysia, with Ecoteer

Teach English and Environmental Awareness

Teaching English abroad can be an incredibly rewarding experience for all involved. Offering you deep interaction with local people, it is a great way to delve into a new culture. Just as beneficially, local people learn English from a native speaker and are able to develop confidence in their language skills. Volunteers may also be given the chance to share their knowledge about environmental awareness, an important step in convincing locals to protect their natural resources.

These kinds of volunteer holidays often include free time each day, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy activities in the local area, whether they be sports meets or just chatting with new neighbours. English teaching trips vary in length from a couple of weeks to many months.

Volunteer with Lions in South Africa

The lion – the king of the cats – is one of the most majestic animals on the planet. So, what could be better than a volunteer position helping research the impacts of reintroducing it and other animals into an incredible nature reserve?

Volunteer projects could be your best chance to really help animals. Through guided courses and practical work with rangers, you develop new skills that you might not have a chance to otherwise. Research into endangered species, for example, is vital to the preservation of our ecosystems; however the (human and material and financial) resources to do this are sometimes hard to find. This is where volunteer holidays can come in to play: they help fill this gap so that the research can continue.

Student holding a baby turtle as part of his volunteer work with SEE Turtles

Protect Turtles as Part of Your College Studies

College students often think of volunteering holidays as rewarding additions to their studies. By putting theory into practice you gain a fuller understanding of your academic pursuits. Such experiences can also provide solid fodder for your CV, showing your commitment to your field and an appetite for contextualising your knowledge.

Turtle conservation projects are great area for students. Not only do they allow for hands-on care of these special marine creatures, but they are often located in rather nice corners of the world. Who would complain about that?

There’s a serious side to it all, of course, as many species are endangered and a lot of hard work is needed to help protect them. Roles can include monitoring beaches, caring for young turtles, researching populations and educating locals about how to prevent poaching.

Reef conservation and diving are twin pursuits of Reef Conservation International

Mix Diving with Reef Conservation

One of the most magical qualities of diving is experiencing the incredible submarine environment. You have only to look through the range of diving holidays to understand the increase in the number of volunteer holidays set up to help protect these garden hotspot for divers.

As reefs exist all over the world, you rarely have to travel too far to help out. Many reef-restoration volunteer holidays also integrate diving courses, giving you the ideal mix of conservation and learning.

There are many more opportunities than the five presented here. Why not start your adventure on Much Better Adventures’ Volunteering Holidays page?

The economic centre, largest city and former capital of Tanzania, Dar Es Salaam, is rich in culture, heritage, history and sightseeing. It is a starting point for many visitors making their way to other large attractions in Tanzania, such as the coastal islands or inland safaris, but there is also a lot to see and do in this town. Dar Es Salaam is a tropical port city that lies along some of the most important and oldest sea routes in history, and its long status as a major East African economic centre has given rise to an interesting and distinctive culture.

The port city of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, sits alongside the Indian Ocean. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Ali Damji

Here Are the Top 5 Activities in Dar Es Salaam:

1. Coastal Cruises: This is a great way to see the East African coast while sailing on the Indian Ocean. Choose a boat that will stop at an island for a picnic of authentic local foods before heading back to port. This is an especially romantic excursion if you’re traveling with someone special.

2. Dar Es Salaam Fish Market: At this bustling market, fisherman bring in their daily catches while their housewives fry up the freshest fish straight from the ocean. The best time to go is early in the morning.

3. Mandazi Road: This road is lined on both sides with bars and cafes and is a great place to mix and mingle with the locals. The Msasani-Ubungo bus passes about every 15 minutes but you might also consider taking a taxi.

Sailing trips are a popular excursion from Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Paul Shaffner

4. The National Museum and House of Culture: Exhibits at these two sites include the Hall of Man, which traces human history from evolution to the present day; the History Gallery, which focuses on the history of Tanzanians from early society to present day; and the Ethnography Gallery, which allows us to see the rich cultural heritage of the people of Tanzania through the use of ornaments, traditional healings, musical instruments and much more.

5. Beaches: This area of the Indian Ocean is known for its picture-perfect tropical coastline. Dar Es Salaam boasts long sandy white beaches and the water is usually warm. If you are a beach person, don’t pass this paradise by!

The picturesque coastline of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, boasts beautiful tropical beaches. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Irene2005

When to Go

We recommend visiting Tanzania between January and March. Tanzania has two rainy seasons: from mid-March to the end of May, the masika rains begin after dark and last well into the next afternoon. The second season is known as the vuli season; it occurs intermittently throughout November and parts of December and January. During the vuli season, showers arrive in the morning and are sometimes interrupted with clear weather.

You’ve seen them flocking together at every major tourist site: groups of travellers in bright Hawaiian shirts escorted by their tour guides, who lead them around like herds of cattle. Lumbering off buses, they brush sleep from their eyes for a 10- to 15-minute glimpse of whatever natural or manmade wonder they happen to see before them – a thunderous waterfall perhaps, or the crumbling pillars of an ancient civilisation. Then, still snapping photos with their brand-new cameras, they’re wrangled back on the bus.

One hopes that one day these folk will realise this is no way to see the world, watching the landscapes whirr by instead of savouring the journey. The typical big-hits packaged tour – characterised by buses speeding from one highlight attraction to the next – misses out on the unexpected pleasures of slower travel. Why not linger a little while to experience landscape from up close? What better way to get to know a place than to interact with the locals who live there? Group sightseeing by bus is a sleepwalker’s holiday. You need to get off the tourist coach for some real adventure.

A traditional dugout canoe, known as a haabja, is the best way to explore the wilderness of Estonia's Soomaa National Park. Photo courtesy of www.soomaa.com

Get Wet and Wild in Estonia

Known as the “land of the bogs,” Estonia reveals its natural splendour inside Soomaa National Park. Special footwear is required for “bog-shoeing” across this vast wet tract of land known for its abundant wildlife that includes numerous types of bird, wild boar and brown bear, all common residents of the peat bogs and flooded grasslands. The famous late-March ‘fifth season’ of floods is an ideal time for fully exploring the area’s damp landscapes and raging rivers, as well as the nearby Baltic Sea and the Estonia Islands just offshore. Spot seals, beavers, lynx and more on a Sea Kayaking and River Canoeing Adventure, with time spent both in Soomaa and in the Hiiumaa Islets Landscape Reserve.

The high-speed toboggan on Madeira Island, Portugal has been operating since 1850.

Take off by Toboggan in Madeira, Portugal

Visitors to Portugal’s Madeira Island have long been enjoying the high-speed trip from the hilltop resort town of Monte to the island’s low-lying capital city of Funchal. This easy commute requires no gas-guzzling vehicles, however – just a 10-minute ride via an old-fashioned toboggan. Steered by two men in traditional straw hats who use their rubber-soled boots as breaks, the toboggan ride has been a means of local transport on the island since as far back as 1850. During the two-kilometre trip, speeds can reach up to 48 kilometres per hour.

Away from the capital of Ulaanbaatar, a ranger patrols Mongolia's Khustai National Park. Photo courtesy Batbold Ragchaa

Horse Around in Mongolia

Since as far back as the days of Genghis Khan, horses in Mongolia have had a unique influence over the country’s history and culture. Mongol riders once ruled much of Eurasia, and horses remain central to the traditions of Mongolia’s nomadic tribes. In fact, the country today is home to approximately 20 million steeds, while the number of Mongolians is barely 2.8 million. It’s little wonder why riding is still so popular throughout Mongolia, especially as the beauty of country’s vast steppes is best discovered on horseback. Departing from the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, a six-night Horseback Adventure to Legendary White Lake lets visitors take in sights that include ancient Mongol Empire ruins, petrified forests and rolling sand dunes – all while sleeping under the stars in a traditional yurt-style Mongolian ‘ger’ camp.

In Johannesburg, South Africa, visitors learn about the history of Apartheid while cycling around the vibrant Soweto township. Photo by Johannesburg Urban Adventures

Cycle Away in South Africa

Two wheels are an ideal way to see the sights in the legendary Soweto district of Johannesburg, South Africa – the colourful and vibrant neighborhood which helped usher in the end of the turbulent era of Apartheid. On Urban Adventures’ Cycle Soweto tour, visitors explore the most famous landmarks and streets recalling the days of Apartheid. The seven- to eight-hour leisurely pedal passes Vilakazi Street, where Nelson Mandela once lived, and encounters many noteworthy sights from the historic 1976 student uprisings. Rounding out the trip is a pause for umqombothi (traditional grain-brewed beer) at a local shebeen (bar).

On a reindeer sledding tour with Nutti Sámi Siida, travelers drive sleds across Swedish wilderness and learn how to handle their own reindeer. Photo courtesy of Katja Bechtloff

Sled Through Sweden – by Reindeer

In the far north of Swedish Lapland, one local travel operator had the ingenious insight to combine reindeer husbandry with community-based tourism. Based in the village of Jukkasjärvi (which is also home to the legendary IceHotel), Nutti Sámi Siida arranges first-rate ecotourism trips that showcase the environment and culture of the region’s indigenous Sámi people. On a reindeer sledding tour, riders learn how to handle their own reindeer while driving a sled through Sweden’s snow-covered tundra. Along the way, time is taken to taste traditional Sámi food, learn how to throw a lasso and become better acquainted with the four-footed companions. Why take the bus, when you can caravan above the Arctic Circle?

“Books are a very important way to knowledge and to self-improvement… The provision of a National Library Service in Tanzania means that … knowledge is made available to all our literate citizens and through them to people who have not yet learned to read.”
–Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere, 1967

Editor’s Note: This is the first entry in a four-part series about the state of libraries in Tanzania.

As babies, we chew and drool on our tiny board books. As toddlers, we color and rip the pages of our beloved nightly readers. By ages six or seven, we are reading and have graduated into a new world of wonder and discovery.

These decades-old used books are often the only ones available to many schools in Tanzania. Photo by Anne Wells

Over the course of our lifetimes, there are few activities on which we will spend more time than reading. We read to learn, work, escape, entertain, evolve, explore, and connect. From our morning newspapers to our letters, e-mails, favorite paperback novels, computers, and Kindles to our nightstand piles of literature and magazines; from Shakespeare, Sartre, Shelley, and Salinger to social psychology, sports, science, and everything in between, the written word is as essential to our lives as water, food, and shelter.

Now imagine a world where there are few, if any, written words. There are no books, no magazines, no newspapers, no Internet, and no textbooks. Imagine it. In this year of 2011, when most of us are hyperlinked and “content-ed out” beyond reason, is this even possible?

Welcome to Ngongongare Village in the Arusha District of northern Tanzania. Here, as it is in so many other impoverished outlying communities across the continent, there are few, if any books. Schools are overwhelmed with too many students, too few teachers (an average of one to every 45 students, according to the UNESCO EFA 2000 Assessment Tanzanian Country Report), and even fewer textbooks. A report by the non-profit organization Textbooks for Tanzania states, “It is not uncommon for a class of 40 to share a single textbook.” The Newton-Tanzania Collaborative that operates under the Do Something umbrella estimates a textbook to student ratio of 1 to 80. Texts that do exist are often decades old, filthy, and falling apart. To keep them from disintegrating altogether, teachers often keep them under lock and key, pulling them out only to copy their contents on blackboards for masses of children to memorize or, if lucky, to copy down on scraps of paper.

Kids read inside an old community library in Tanzania. Photo by Anne Wells

In the United States, there are 122,101 libraries, according to the American Library Association, ones that complement our educational systems by providing free access to literature, periodicals, the Internet, and ongoing educational opportunities. That’s one for approximately every 2,500 citizens.

In Tanzania, it’s a different story. There is just one national central library in Dar Es Salaam; a single library in some of the country’s 26 regions; and a handful of other government libraries scattered throughout various districts, which at best would be one library serving many hundreds of thousands of people. The Tanzanian Library Association, in its 2008 SCECSAL XVIII report, notes that these libraries all face many challenges, including a lack of qualified librarians and adequate resources.

“We visited a number of regional libraries in Tanzania,” says Ann Hanin, 67, a librarian at the Beacon School in New York City and the founder of Project A.B.L.E., a U.S.-based non-profit established to promote literacy and education in the developing world. “They were filled with old, dirty, dilapidated materials that most people find irrelevant, unnecessary, and unusable. We could not find any books on farming and agriculture. We could not find any books by African authors or in local languages. It was so sad and disheartening.”

Deb Kelly, 55, an American volunteer in Tanzania, experienced firsthand this great need for free-access to relevant books and educational opportunities. In 2007, she founded the Tanzanian non-governmental organization Jifundishe (which means “teach yourself” in Swahili) to provide educational opportunities to rural communities. Her first project, the Imbaseni Free Community Library, was so successful that she soon replaced it with a larger library, with financial support from the U.S.-based Crawford-Smith Foundation and Project A.B.L.E. Villagers came from miles and miles away, even from around the world, all to patronize, partner with, assist, and help grow Deb’s vision of a free library and community center that supports literacy development for all.

The Jifundishe Free Library supports literacy and development in rural northern Tanzania. Photo by Anne Wells

Today, that library, the Jifundishe Free Library, is the model for a new initiative called the Maktaba Project (“library” in Swahili), which is currently working on building a network of “Jifundishes” in six more rural communities over the next 10 years. The Jifundishe Free Library is also the poster child of the new Tanzanian Community Library Association, formed independently of the government in early 2011 to develop a network of community libraries, disseminate information, share best practices, and help obtain necessary financial support.

For more information, visit www.jifundishe.org and www.projectablefoundation.org.

Coming up next in the Beyond Books in Tanzania series:
• Part II: Deb Kelly and the Jifundishe Free Community Library
• Part III: “What a Difference a Library Can Make”
• Part IV: The Maktaba Project and the New Tanzanian Community Library Association

Anne Wells is the founder and director of UNITE The World With Africa, a social organization working to provide impactful connections, resources and expertise to help advance women’s health, education and microfinance programs in Tanzania. She recently launched a new online store called The Ashe’ Collection, a 100% philanthropic initiative to grow an international demand for African artistry and raise funds to support UNITE’s work in East Africa. For more information, email Anne at atmwells(at)gmail(dot)com.

This relationship evolved into the gradual development of the island and, as waves of colonists made themselves at home, the reliance on and importance of the ocean for supplies and communication continued to grow.

Mauritius continues to enjoy many benefits from its position of relative isolation – including its reputation as a place of exceptional peace and tranquillity – but perhaps the most appreciated gifts of the sea – at least by visitors – are the island’s kilometres of beautiful beaches.

Resorts, such as the one pictured above (the Shanti Maurice A Nira), really make the most of the incredible white sands and turquoise gradients that characterise Mauritian beaches. The resort goes to great lengths to operate in harmony with its surroundings and serves to complement – rather than compete with – the natural beauty of its location. Built using natural materials, the Shanti blends into the landscape perfectly.

Balance with nature is of serious importance to Mauritians. The history of their island is closely associated with one of the most infamous species losses in history. During a period of less than a hundred years, the native Dodo bird was hunted to extinction by colonial sailors and has since become an emblem of mankind’s callousness toward the natural world.

By remembering the mistakes of the past, we are able to look toward a more sustainable future. Resorts, such as the Shanti, are helping to ensure that no more of the precious natural gifts bestowed upon Mauritius go the way of the Dodo.

We’ve asked our global network of local tourism professionals about the ‘length of stay’ factor in their destinations. Answers varied, but they all agree on one thing: the average tourist isn’t a slow traveller and just doesn’t stay long enough to really appreciate a place.

We’ve shared the thoughts of 15 of our local partners on how long is long enough and what the average fast traveller is missing.

The moving sand dunes on the Curonian Spit, near the town of Nida, Lithuania. Photo courtesy of Flickr.com/Lee Fenner

Lithuania

Average length of stay: Three days to visit the three main cities in Lithuania – Vilnius, Kaunas and Klaipeda.
Recommended length of stay: One week at least. Two weeks would be even better to allow time at the awesome beaches on the Baltic Sea in summertime or Druskininkai spa resort.
How to travel slow in Lithuania: Cycling, canoeing, taking hot air balloon rides and relaxing by the seaside or at the spa.
~ Kestas Lukoskinas, the whl.travel local connection in Lithuania

Browsing the local markets of Luang Prabang, Laos. Photo courtesy of Stanislas Fradeliza

Luang Prabang, Laos

Average length of stay: Three to four days.
Recommended length of stay: Two weeks, in order to include outdoor activities around Luang Prabang, which is also to be considered in other destinations like Nong Khiaw, Vang Vieng and Vientiane.
How to travel slow in Luang Prabang: Practice the art of doing nothing! Just sit beside the river with a drink, relax and soak in the ambience. Rivers are the lifeblood of Laos and its key destinations (Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang), so take the time to travel via the Mekong River, as local people do. For example, take a slow boat cruise from Luang Prabang to the Thai border.
~ Cindy Fan, the whl.travel local partner in Luang Prabang

Boats near the Sunday Morning Fish Market in Marsaxlokk, Malta. Photo courtesy of Louisa Attard

Malta

Average length of stay: 8.2 nights. This number is quite high compared to other countries, mainly due to the many long stays of English school students.
Recommended length of stay: Between two and three weeks. Take your time with each site so you really can appreciate the atmosphere. Even though Malta is very small there’s still so much to see.
How to travel slow in Malta: Find more time to experience the landscape by foot. Go hiking in Malta, especially in spring. Take five days, pack up some camping gear and hike around the whole island of Gozo. You’ll be surrounded by pure nature.
~ Marco Attard, the whl.travel local connection in Malta

Surfing at sunset on Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janiero, Brazil. Photo courtesy of Luiz Renato Malcher

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average length of stay: Two to three nights.
Recommended length of stay: At least one week.
How to travel slow in Rio de Janeiro: Try the local brownie with chilly pepper jam in one of the cosy cafés in the Santa Teresa area of Rio de Janeiro. See the samba rehearsals on Saturdays at a local samba school. Visit a favela. Watch a soccer match in Maracanã Stadium. Sample the nightlife in the bars and clubs of the Lapa district. The list could go on and on!
~ Luiz Renato Malcher, the whl.travel local partner in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

A fuzzy lake bird spotted on a trek to Niupani Village on Rennell Island of the Solomon Islands. Photo by Rennell World Heritage Tours

Solomon Islands

Average length of stay: 10.92 days (according to a study completed in 2009).
Recommended length of stay: Essentially it would take months to reach the 900+ islands on local transport, but you need about two to three weeks minimum to get a real feel for the Solomon Islands. Most visitors take the first four or five days just to slow down and stop looking at their watches.
How to travel slow in the Solomon Islands: Stop and stay overnight in a local village. Stroll through and watch how life moves at ‘Solomon Time.’ Sit down with locals to learn about how simple a lifestyle they have.
~ Kerrie Kennedy, the whl.travel local partner in Solomon Islands

The view from Apparition Hill in Mejugorie, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Photo courtesy of Mate T. Vasilj

Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Average length of stay: Four to seven nights.
Recommended length of stay: Six nights and seven days in Medjugorje to see it well.
How to travel slow in Medjugorje: Attend the frequent talks in John Paul II hall given by local Franciscan priests of the Medjugorje parish. Find peaceful time for prayer or just walk through the fields. If you stay longer, you will have the chance to be a part of the Medjugorje local community. Stop for casual conversation with locals.
~ Zana R-Bilal, the whl.travel local connection in Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Kite surfing in Florianópolis, Brazil. Photo courtesy of Renata Asprino

Florianópolis, Brazil

Average length of stay: Travellers spend from five to seven days here.
Recommended length of stay: A minimum of seven days, but 15 days would be better to really experience the island of Florianópolis.
How to travel slow in Florianópolis: Get in close contact with the island’s well-preserved nature. Hike to remote fishing villages or to archaeological sites. Mountain bike to refreshing waterfalls. Learning to kite-surf, go birdwatching or just relax on the beach.
~ Renata Asprino, the whl.travel local connection in Florianópolis, Brazil

Ushguli, the highest village in Europe, is towered over by Mt. Shkhara in Georgia. Photo courtesy of Ia Kverghelidze

Tbilisi and Caucasus Mountains, Georgia

Average length of stay: Seven days.
Recommended length of stay: 7-12 days. Although Georgia is a small country, all its regions are different from one another.
How to travel slow in Georgia: The best way to feel the Georgian spirit is to hike in the remote mountains, where ancient and medieval towers are still preserved. Visit Ushguli, the highest settlement in Europe. Compare the nature, architecture and traditions of the mountainous areas of Tusheti, Svaneti and Khevsureti. Other options of active travel are mountain biking and rafting. Georgia is famous for its wine. A wine tour in the Kakheti region, with advanced winemaking techniques and many vineyards, promises tasty wine and meals.
~ Ia Kverghelidze, the whl.travel local partner in Georgia

A typical road scene outside Petriti in southeast Corfu, Greece. Photo courtesy of Jillian Wareham

Corfu, Greece

Average length of stay: Around 7-10 days
Recommended length of stay: At least 14-21 days
How to travel slow in Corfu: Since north, south and west Corfu are so different from each other, just spend a few days on each coast. Find Paxos Island. Go snorkelling or diving. Ride horses. Try cycling, walking or hiking.
~ Sandra Broedner, the whl.travel local partner in Corfu, Greece

Recycling paper at the Nchima Paper Recycling Trust in Malawi. Photo courtesy of Will Turner.

Malawi

Average length of stay: Two weeks.
Recommended length of stay: Two to three weeks.
How to travel slow in Malawi: Try activities that are unique to Malawi, like visiting its rural areas, especially the mountains and rural villages.
~ Kate Webb, the whl.travel local partner in Malawi

Boat painting at Slow Travel Art Lodge in Panama. Photo courtesy of Sandrine-Pia Casto

Panama

Average length of stay: Three days.
Recommended length of stay: At least five days.
How to travel slow in Panama: Look for traditional fishing and handicraft workshops with the local population, discover islands off the coast of Panama and visit Coiba National Park.
~ Sandrine-Pia Casto, the whl.travel local partner in Panama City, Panama

Inside a traditional longhouse used by the Rungus tribes of Borneo, Malaysia. Photo courtesy of Borneo Eco Tours

Borneo, Malaysia

Average length of stay: One week.
Recommended length of stay: At least two weeks.
How to travel slow in Borneo: Visit the Mari-mari Cultural Village. Cook local dishes from Malaysia and taste local delicacies. Visit Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs. Taste local fruits when in season. Stroll through the Sunday Market on Gaya Street in Kota Kinabalu. Allow for two nights on the Sukau Kinabatangan river cruise. Stay in a traditional Rungus tribal longhouse. Finally, get outdoors on a three-day climb of Mt. Kinabalu or a five-day trek to Crocker Range or Maliau Basin.
~ Jessica Peters, the whl.travel local partner in Borneo, Malaysia

A harvest of shea to be used for shea butter in Ghana. Photo courtesy of M&J Travel and Tours

Ghana

Average length of stay: 10-12 days.
Recommended length of stay: It’s not the quantity of time, but rather the quality of time that’s important. Seek the kinds of experiences that enable you learn more about the ways of life of ordinary people in Ghana.
How to travel slow in Ghana: Opt for homestay accommodation with a local family so you can get a feel for their daily activities or simply spend a few days. It’s all about doing very genuine things. Sample the farming life, try volunteering and take an interest in local livelihoods.
~ Marian Thompson, the whl.travel local partner in Ghana

A giant tortoise in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Photo courtesy of Heather Rath

Ecuador

Average length of stay: Most travellers spend at least a week in Ecuador.
Recommended length of stay: At least 14 days to really experience the important destinations.
How to travel slow in Ecuador: Experience all “four worlds” of Ecuador. Take a tour of Quito, the capital of the world, then head to the Galapagos Islands to learn about the place where the evolutionary theory was born. Then head back to the mainland to visit the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Rainforest.
~ Sebastian Sierra, the whl.travel local partner in Quito, Ecuador

Goree Island, one of Dakar's biggest tourist attractions.

Senegal

Average length of stay: Less than a week in Senegal and less than two days in the Dakar area.
Recommended length of stay: Exploring Senegal would require more than 15 days, but if you choose to zoom in on just one or two areas, then plan about four days per area.
How to travel slow in Senegal: For a real feel of Dakar, spend one night on Goree Island. Dedicate one full day to the markets, for they are so different one from another. Spend one day focused on cultural places and traditional arts, and one night making the most of Dakar nightlife. Take one day to visit Dakar’s surroundings, with an excursion to Pink Lake (Lac Rose), Turtles’ Village (Village des Tortues), Bandia Nature Reserve or Îles de la Madeleine Reserve.
~ Jérôme Kardos, the whl.travel local partner in Dakar, Senegal