Trees in Africa: the striking and special face of Africa

A giraffe stands in a grassy savanna in Tanzania, Africa, surrounded by green acacia trees under a cloudy blue sky, eating leaves. Another giraffe is partly visible in the background among the trees—a perfect scene for those travelling through Africa.

When you think about a trip to Africa, it’s often associated with going on a safari to spot the Big Five or embarking on a hike to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The impressive trees and plants of this continent are often overlooked. In our opinion, this is entirely unfair, so here’s a blog dedicated to the African trees!

Travelling in Uganda with kids

Five smiling children stand close together in front of a stone fence, with tall trees and greenery in the background on a sunny day in Uganda. The kids, dressed in casual summer clothes, appear to be enjoying themselves while travelling outdoors.

The moment has arrived: you’re sitting at the table with your family for a steaming dinner. The summer holiday ended just six days ago, but as you place mashed potatoes on your child’s plate, you get the sharp question: “Where are we going on holiday next year?!” A question you’re probably not prepared to answer just yet. But after reading this inspiring article about a trip to Uganda with kids, you might just know the answer!

The Climate in Botswana

A person stands on grassy land near a waterhole in Botswana, watching a large group of zebras gathered at the water’s edge under a blue sky—perfect for those travelling through Africa.

Botswana, located in southern Africa, has a climate heavily influenced by the Kalahari Desert. The country experiences two main climate types: the hot desert climate and the hot steppe climate. During our winter, it is warm and dry there. Since Botswana is in the southern hemisphere, its winter coincides with our summer, bringing increasing humidity and temperatures that often exceed thirty degrees.

The Climate in Rwanda

A person walks along a dirt path through lush green tea bushes in Rwanda, surrounded by tall trees and dense forested hills that showcase the natural beauty of Africa.

Rwanda’s climate is a typical tropical East African climate. The best time to visit is during the summer holidays. Did you know that Rwanda is also known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”? This nickname comes from its enchanting rolling hills and lakes, which are often veiled in mist and fog in the early mornings, creating a truly magical landscape.

Locally brewed alcohol in Uganda

Four women wearing colorful beaded hats and sunglasses sit together, smiling and laughing. One woman holds a decorated pot, while another takes a photo with her phone. They are outdoors by bamboo fencing.

Life lovers, take note: local alcohol is abundant in Uganda! There seems to be a bar every kilometer, perfect for enjoying a drink. Dance to Ugandan hits, or try a bucket full of alcohol with bamboo straws. Discover Uganda’s surprising culture while sitting around that bucket. A visit to a local brewery is also a must. Cheers!

Where can you enjoy the finest wine in East Africa?

Vier reizigers klinken wijnglazen tegen elkaar in een toast, elk met een glas lichtgekleurde wijn, zittend rond een tafel. De levendige sfeer weerspiegelt de geest van reizen en verbondenheid en doet denken aan bijeenkomsten in heel Afrika.

When you think of the best wine in Africa, you probably quickly think of the various types of wine from South Africa. Not surprising, as the wine regions and wine from the South African Cape Winelands are hugely popular. But you can also find very tasty wine in East African countries. Consider, for example, the Leleshwa wine from Kenya, which is considered one of the tastiest wines in Africa.

Out of Africa: a dubious film

Sunlight filters through large, leafy trees in a dense African forest, casting warm golden rays and shadows across Kenya's lush green landscape and rolling hills—a perfect scene for travelling adventurers.

Haven’t seen this classic about Karen Blixen yet? No worries, you’re not alone. That’s why we summarised this sugary Hollywood classic for you and (spoiler alert!) took a critical look at the misconceptions and questionable elements of the film.

Rain as a curse: climate impacts in Kenya

Lush green mountains covered in dense forest, with dramatic clouds hanging low over the peaks, framed by trees and foliage in the foreground—an unforgettable view while travelling through Tanzania, Africa.

The newspapers and the internet were filled with it in the spring: the absurd amount of rain that poured down in Kenya, causing widespread disruption across the country. Streets were flooded, hundreds of people drowned, and over half a million residents were left homeless.

Kenya travel guide: which one should you have?

Rustige waterweg door een dicht mangrovebos langs de kust van Kenia

Are you going to Kenya with Charlie’s Travels? Fantastic! Your travel consultant will share loads of knowledge while planning your trip and during your travels. But if you want some extra background information, a travel guide is a great idea. There are many, but which one suits your trip best? We’ve listed the pros and cons for you.

Top 3 eco lodges in Tanzania: sustainable sleeping

A person relaxes in a hammock on the porch of a rustic, thatched-roof cottage surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees, capturing the tranquil spirit of travelling through Africa—perhaps even along the serene coasts of Tanzania.

After a deep dive into Tanzanian culture, an off-the-beaten-track hike, or spotting the Big Five, you’ll naturally want a good place to stay. That’s why you should choose accommodation that supports fair tourism and helps the local community. At Charlie’s Travels, we believe in sustainable travel, so we’ve put together our top 3 eco-lodges in Tanzania for you.