Below you'll find some gift ideas for people traveling to Africa. CD's, donkeys, newspapers, air travel vouchers and phone cards are some of recommendations included, which should please the ones you love who love Africa.
Click on the headings for more information.
1. Camels, Goats, Apalcas, Latrines, School Books and Mosquito Nets
Camel gift, Oxfam
Be the talk of your town and buy your loved one a camel. They're diverse, useful animals and their dung makes excellent fuel and fertilizer. This is probably more than you can say for your dog or cat. As an efficient, economical form of transport, a camel will beat a Prius hooves down. A camel will also keep your lawn nice and trim. Oxfam is selling camels for $125, you have to agree, this is a top notch bargain.
2. African Clothing and Crafts
Leakey Collection
African carvings, furniture, masks, jewelry, mud cloth, Kente cloth and much more are available through a number of quality online stores. Recommended shops include:
For some wonderful Maasai beadwork made from zulu grass and wood check out the Leakey collection.
3. Travel Africa Magazine
Africa Travel Magazine
A subscription to the excellent Travel Africa Magazine will really impress anyone who is interested in African travel (or those who like beautiful photography). It's such a well-written and informative magazine, personally I can't wait for my issue every month. I even enjoy reading the ads.
4. Books About Africa
McSweeney Book publishers
Reading about a country before you travel there really enhances your experience. Reading about a country you've just visited is equally satisfying since you can picture the scenes perfectly. I've put together a list of personal Top 10 books set in Africa and you can't really go wrong with any of them although some are not too cheery.
5. Movies About Africa
© Warner Brothers
I ran a poll about movies in Africa and The African Queen came out as the winner with the most votes. But there have been plenty of excellent movies set in Africa since then. I have a list of personal favorites which should please most Africa enthusiasts if they found a DVD tucked away in their Christmas stocking.
6. Travel Gift Vouchers
Everyone likes the flexibility of a gift voucher and what could be better than the gift of travel. There are several companies out there who offer travel vouchers. Most seem to be located in the UK which is actually a good place to book a trip to Africa from, since it's often cheaper, even if you have to add on a transatlantic flight:
7. Travel Gear
Getty Images/Jules Frazier
Travel gear is always fun to buy but those water filters, mosquito nets, first aid kits and Swiss army knives get expensive. There are several excellent outdoor retailers who carry a good range of products:
8. African Music
South Africa Tourism
CD's always make for great gifts and there is plenty of choice for those interested in African music. This is a good choice for those who have recently returned from a trip to Africa since there's nothing quite like taking your mind back to your adventure than hearing a familiar song.
Find out more about African music styles and online shops
9. Phone Cards or Cellular Phone Plans
Getty Images/Jeremy Woodhouse
Buying a cell phone or calling plan that can be used in Africa will enable you to not only keep in touch but also share the adventure. Listen in on the rumble of the Victoria Falls or the latest band in Soweto with your loved one who is traveling in Africa. There are plenty of plans available, find out more ....
