Valencia Community

This Autonomous Community is a prototypical example of the "Mediterranean Spain", with a fantastic climate and more than 500 kilometers of coast. It is decidedly one of the country's most touristical areas.
If you want to discover more than just sun and sand, you will find remains of most remote civilizations, Phoenicians, Greeks, Iberians and Romans. The Moorish legacy is still present in traditional artisany and agriculture with its praised oranges as well as rice. The conquests of Jaime de Aragon led to the foundation of the kingdom of Valencia, more or less at the territiory of todays Community.
Major attractions:
Valencia
The capital, with outstanding monuments in particular of Gothic period, as La Lonja and the bell-tower Miguelete.
Alicante
The second largest city of Valencian Community, dominated by the Moorish castle Castillo de Santa Barabara.
Costa Blanca
One of the most famous Spanish coasts. Its magnificent sand beaches and ideal installations made it a first rate touristic center. Among the most important cities are Denia, Calpe, and Benidorm with its outstanding hotel infrastructure and boiling nightlife.
Costa Azahar
The "Orange-Blossom-Coast", in the north of Valencia, not only offers great beaches but as well beautiful towns as Peñiscola with its great medieval castle or Oropesa, which conserves the 16th century Tower of the King, erected as a defense against pirates. A true pearl is the enchanting Morella with its narrow lanes, enclosed by 14th century walls.
Castellon
The most remarkable monuments are the cathedral Santa Maria and the town-hall.

La Rioja

The first thing that comes to your mind when you listen La Rioja is probably the wine bearing the same name. It is produced here, in the smallest of Spain's Autonomous Communities, located south of Basque Country at the occidental extreme of Ebro valley.
Haro is the center of wine production, and a well-known folkloristic event is its annual "battle of the wine".
Of major touristic interest is the the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James), a part of which leads through La Rioja. The monasteries along that way are not only of high artistic but as well cultural importance, here was written the first text ever in Castilian Spanish.
Along the Way of Saint James there are monumental towns of great beauty lined up: Calahorra, Arnedo, San Millan de la Cogolla, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, and Logroño, founded already by Romans and today the region's capital.
Worth a visit is as well the area Tierra de Cameros, with outstanding landscapes, grottos and caves.
La Rioja offers great possibilities for rural tourism, and if you like hunting, fishing, climbing or hiking it is certainly a place to take into consideration.
Speaking of regional gastronomy, we come back to La Rioja wine, which exists in seven varieties, four of them red and three white. Anyhow one shouldn't forget about another speciality, Pimientos del Piquillo, a delicious and sweet kind of red peppers. Highlights of traditional cooking include lamb, and the marzipan of Sierra de Cameros, of high reputation in all Spain.

Navarra

The history of the ancient kingdom of Navarre always has been marked by its border situation with France, Castile, Aragon and Baskland, and the fact that it is crossed by the pilgrim way Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) is an additional reason for its extraordinary monumental richdom. Its beautiful towns, like Artajona which is surrounded by medieval walls, Estella, Olite, formerly seat of Navarre's kings, Tudela and Roncesvalles always are worth a visit.
The region's capital, Pamplona, a quiet and pleasant city, is world-famous for the Running of Bulls which form part of its most famous festival, Sanfermines, in July. Another very peculiar folkloristic attraction are the Navarrese Carnivals with their typical Zanpantzarrak.
Navarre is divided in three sectors: the mountain range of the Pyrenees in the north, with exceptional landscapes as the exemplaric Baztan valley; La Riviera in the south, a plain land with small lagoons and the fertile valley of Ebro river, and, inbetween, la Zona Media, with impressive landscapes and canyons as Hoces de Lumbier and Arbayun.
Navarre has no fewer than 50 natural preseves, most outstanding are Reserva Integral de Lizardoia and Parque Natural de Señorio de Bértiz. It offers great possibilities for hiking, climbing, fishing and is an ideal place if you want to spend green holidays in Spain.

Murcia

Murcia is characterized by its old history of commerce and agriculture. Already its original inhabitants, Iberian tribes, established commercial relations with Phoenicians and Greeks. Lateron it became first a Carthaginean colony, then a Roman colony. (Carthago Nova, today's Cartagena still reminds of that fact). The Moors established effective and modern agricultural production, which still today is an important economic factor, thanks to their advanced technologies.
Of major touristical interest is of course the Mediterranean coast, Costa Calida ("the warm coast"), with beaches of fine sand. The salt-water lagoon Mar Menor and La Manga del Mar Menor offer great possibilities for water sports. The inland is almost desertic, and you may visit several towns which still preserve their medieval structures.
Typical cooking includes stews, salads, roasted meat, rice, and of course great sea-food along the coast. Murcia also produces wine of high quality.
The Cities
Murcia
The capital of the region, located inland.
Cartagena
The above mentioned Carthaginean Cartago Nova is of great historical importance, specially evident if you visit its museums. It also has the region's most important port.

Galicia

Galicia is known in Spain as the "land of the 1000 rivers". Those rivers cross all the region from the mountainous inland to the coast, where they form the characteristical "Rias". The coast itself offers great contrasts, from the smooth beaches of As Mariñas to the dangerous cliffs of Costa de la Muerte, the "coast of death".
The climate of Galicia is tempered, and specially in winter, with minimal temperatures of about 5 degC, quite rainy. During the summer season, maximum temperatures are around 20 degC. Galicia's richdom in water and its Rias are characteristical for its nature. At the area of Rias Altas you will find magnific beaches, impressive towns and beautiful fishing villages. Rías Baixas are worth a visit for their natural preserves and balnearies, as A Toxa. The inland shows green landscapes and romantic villages.
The first cultures which left their tracks in Galicia were Celtic, while Romans left as a legacy the walls of Lugo, the bridge of Ourense, and the Tower of Hercules. Middle Ages were marked by the discovery of the tomb of the Apostle Santiago (Saint James). Thousands of pilgrims made their way to the cathedral of the newly founded town Santiago de Compostela, and the world-famous Way of Santiago (also known as Way of Saint James or Camino Jacobeo), which is flanked with numerous churches, monasteries and chapels of high historical-artistical value, was formed.
Galicia's folklore clearly shows its Celtic and Gaelic origins, and the most characteristical musical instrument is the Gaita (bagpipe). Regional gastronomy is of great reputation for its excellent fish, Empanada Gallega (a typical pie of fish or meat), traditional sweets prepared in some monasteries (where the recipes are kept in secret jalously), and the Ribeiro wine.
Major attractions:
Santiago de Compostela
The capital of Galicia and final destination of the famous pilgimage way is certainly among Spain's most beautiful cities.
A Coruña
This city, of high economical importance, is located at a peninsula. Major attractions include the Romanesque churches, the synagogue and the old quarter which offers an interesting contrast between almost fragile buildings and massive stone palaces.
Vigo
Galicia's most populated city, with the most important port. The historic quarter is very charming and well preserved.
Lugo
Lugo is surrounded by Roman walls which are perfectly preserved, and has a beautiful Romanesque cathedral.
Ourense
Located inland, also has a beautiful Romanesque cathedral.
Pontevedra
This province is said to be one of the most beautiful of Spain, thanks to the marvelous landscapes of Rías Baixas. The city itself offers an outstanding monumental center.

Extremadura

This community is constituted of two provinces, Caceres and Badajoz, its capital nevertheless being Merida, certainly worth a visit thanks to its fantastic Roman ruins. Romans put Extremadura on the stage of history, and Merida was one of the most important cities in the whole Roman Empire. Lateron the region was for a long period of time the border between Moorish and Christian Spain. After the reconquista it arrived to new splendor with the discovery of America, when it was the cradle of several famous conquerors.
Extremadura's landscapes are characterized by the mountain ranges Cordillera Central, Montes de Toledo and Sierra Morena, the plains and fertile valleys of the rivers Tajo and Guadiana, and the plain lands of Low Extremadura. Its climate is continental, with warm summers and temperatures well over 30 degC, and quite cold winters.
Extremadura has several natural parks and preserves, specially the valleys of its two important rivers are important ecological reserves.
This region has yet not been discovered by mass tourism, but it has plenty of offers if you are looking for something off the beaten track: its original popular customs and traditions, typical dresses, great artisany of ceramics, metal works (those of Guadalupe are of high reputation) and embroideries, and an outstanding gastronomy: trouts, game, sausages, cheeses, as well as excellent wines.
Major attractions:
Merida
Merida preserves some of the most outstanding Roman monuments, including a colossal theater, an amphitheater, two aquaeductus, and a bridge, not to forget about the Museum of Roman Art with its invaluable collection.
Caceres
The capital of Upper Extremadura has a beautiful old quarter, enclosed by Moorish town walls with great watch-towers. Additional attractions include some exceptional Renaissance palaces.
Trujillo
The birthplace of famous conqueror Pizarro is well known for its beautiful main square. There are also a great medieval castle and the well-preserved town-walls with seven doors.
Guadalupe
This beautiful town is dominated by a colossal Mudejar style monastery which preserves valuable works of art.
Plasencia
A beautiful town with a Gothic-Plateresque cathedral, medieval town-walls and several palaces.
Badajoz
The capital of Lower Extremadura is worth a visit thanks to its Moorish Alcazaba, town-walls and watch-towers.

Catalonia

Best known apart from the capital, Barcelona, is of course the Mediterranean coast, Costa Brava, with ample beaches and mild climate, doubtlessly a first rate touristical attraction. One shouldn't forget anyhow that Catalonia offers as well high mountain ranges, the Pyrenees in the north, the curious formations of Montserrat, the inactive volcans of Garrotxa, and a wide plain area in the region's center.
Catalonia has a very marked culture of its own, most evidently of Mediterranean tradition, and is distinguished of most other Spanish regions in several aspects, not at least by its language, Catalonian (although everybody speaks and understands Castilian Spanish perfectly). Certainly it is one of the most cosmopolitan places in Spain, thanks to its long tradition of international commerce.
The coast offers ideal facilities for all sorts of water sports, but everywhere you will realize about that special talent to combine the beauty of nature or monuments with modern attractions, a main reason why Catalonia developed into one of the preferred touristical destinations.
Catalonia's excellent gastronomy is characterized by seafood, rice dishes, wines of great international reputation and traditional desserts like the famous "Catalonian Cream".
Major attractions:
Barcelona
Catalonia's capital, located at the Mediterranean Sea, offers the structures of a true metropole. Among its most outstanding sights are the Gothic Quarter and the works of architect Antoni Gaudi.
Costa Brava
Certainly one of the most famous Spanish coasts, stretching from the north of Barcelona over the province of Girona. It is of great natural beauty, with steep cliffs and romantic small coves.
Girona
A beautiful historic city with the old Jewish Quarter among its major sights.
Figueres
The birthplace of great painter Salvador Dali. Its main attraction is of course the museum dedicated to the artist, showing a collection of some of his finest works.
Costa Dorada
The Golden Coast, stretching from south of Costa Brava to Tarragona, offers apart from its great beaches and beautiful landscapes towns of outstanding beauty, such as Arenys del Mar, Sitges (with the highly interesting museum of Cau Ferrat) and Castelldefels.
Tarragona
An important city of the Roman empire, still preserving outstanding monuments: the aquaeductus, an amphitheater and the Tomb of the Scipios, located at the seaside. Close to Tarragona there are the monasteries Santes Creus and Santa Maria de Poblet, both of high historic-artistic interest.
Lleida (Lerida)
Located inland in a mountainous area. Most interesting is its cathedral, "Seo", built between 12th and 15th century.

Castilla y Leon

Castilla y Leon is not only the largest region of Spain, but as well the largest region of all the European Union. The elevated plain is limited by the the mountain ranges Sistema Iberico to the east, Cordillera Central to the south, Cordillera Cantabrica to the north and by Duero river towards Portugal.
Castilla y Leon came together in 1983, when the regions of Castilla la Vieja and Leon were united. Both have been central areas of Spanish medieval history, and the importance during that epoch is still evident in many cathedrals, monasteries, castles and fortificated towns, many of which are preserved in perfect state. Apart of its great monumental patrimony, Castilla y Leon offers as well natural parks and kilometers of practically virginal nature, with woods of oaks and cork-oaks.
Gastronomy is distinguished by excellent meat, in particular of lamb, and vegetables like the famous creamy beans of Avila. Artisany and popular celebrations show a rich and varied folklore, often of archaical roots and almost unknown to a wider public.
The Cities:
Salamanca
Salamanca's great historical importance is due to its University, one of the oldest of Europe. It is a city of outstanding beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Segovia
Segovia's most famous monument is certainly its colossal Roman aquaeductus which dominates all the town. Additional attractions include the Alcazar and the Gothic cathedral.
Avila
A beautiful historic town, entirely enclosed by impressive Romanesque walls.
Burgos
A monumental town well worth a visit. The famous cathedral,one of the greatest examples of Gothic style in Spain, is its most outstanding attraction.
Leon
Formerly the capital of the region, it gave its name to the Community. The city's most famous monuments are its great Gothic cathedral, the church Basilica de San Isidoro with valuable Romanesque frescoes in its crypt, and the San Marcos monastery of Renaissance period. Close to Leon you may visit the legendary Roman gold mines Las Medulas.
Zamora
Zamora is a beautiful medieval town with a magnificent cathedral and several great Romanesque churches. Nearby there are the 8th century Visigothic church San Pedro de la Nave, and Lago de Sanabria, the largest lake of Spain and the only one of glacial origins.
Valladolid
The capital of Castilla y Leon has one of the most important sculpture museums of all Spain, and the famous Easter week processions are of great touristical interest. The city itself is monumental, and in its surroundings there are innumerable castles. It is said that in Valladolid the most correct Castilian Spanish is spoken.
Soria
In Soria, located at Duero river, you should pay special attention to the magnificent Romanesque churches.
Palencia
Medieval town with outstanding Romanesque monuments. Among the major attractions are the beautiful cathedral and the interesting archaeological museum.

Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla-La Mancha, located at the very center of the Iberian peninsula, is dominated by an extense tableland, although there are mountainous landscapes too.
Of major interest to the visitor are of course the monumental cities and towns of great historical importance, like Toledo, the enchanting Cuenca and Albacete, but one should take as well several interesting alternative routes into consideration, among them: Ruta de los Pueblos Negros ("Route of the Black Villages"), having their name from the use of slate in their traditional architecture, the "Route of the Saffron Fields", "Route of the Castles", and the "Route of Don Quijote", named after Cervante's legendary "Man from La Mancha". Still today you will see many of those characteristical windmills Don Quijote was fighting with in all the land.
Traditional gastronomy is simple but tasteful, with stews, game, sausages and the famous Manchego cheese. The region's excellent wines are a perfect match.
Artisany is varied, from ceramics and embroiderings to the famous Swords of Toledo and Knives of Albacete.


The Cities:
Toledo
The former capital of Spain is certainly one of the country's architectonical treasures, with magnificent monuments specially from Moorish, Mudejar, Gothic and Renaissance periods. Toledo was also the hometown of the great painter El Greco.
Cuenca
This enchanting medieval city, declared Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO, is surrounded by landscapes of incredible beauty. Among the town's most remarkable sights are the famous "Hanging Houses", the Gothic cathedral and the Museum of Abstract Art. In its surroundings there are several fantastic natural preserves, among them Ciudad Encantada, the "enchanted city", where erosion has created most bizarre forms.
Guadalajara
Major attractions are the Mudejar style church Santa Maria la Mayor, the 15th century palace Duque del Infantado, the Moorish town-walls and bridge over Henares river, from 10th century. In the province of Guadalajara the medieval town Siguenza, with its great fortress and cathedral, is worth a visit.
Ciudad Real
This city is marked by the history of Don Quijote who is said to have fought against the windmills at the nearby Campo de Criptana. The nearby Lagunas de Ruidera, consisting of 17 lagoons, offer splendid landscapes.
Albacete
A modern and functional city, located at the typical plains of La Mancha. It is known for its knife-making industry.

Cantabria

With a surface of 5.300 square kilometers Cantabria offers extremely varied landscapes and climates. In its mountain ranges, Picos de Europa and the natural preserve of Saja, still live bears, wolves and eagles, and the rivers are full of salmons and trouts. Pico de tres Mares ("peak of the three seas") is a real curiosity: a drop of water that falls here may equally arrive to Atlantic Ocean, by Duero river, the Cantabric Sea, by Nansa river, or the Mediterranean Sea by Ebro river.

In total contrast is the coast with beautiful bays and romantic fishing villages. Inbetween you will find green valleys and hills.

The capital, Santander, is located at a beautiful bay. It is an economically extremely active city with an important port. There is an ample cultural offer, specially remarkable are the Menendez y Pelayo International Summer University, and the International Festival. Santander's great sports facilities make it an ideal place for leisure.

At a few kilometers from the capital there are the medieval town Santillana del Mar, and the highly interesting prehistorical Caves of Altamira . Some other attractions in the surroundings of Santander are the church of Santa Maria de Valverde, or the natural park of Cabarceno, where you will find animals from the five continents in an outstanding and singular landscape.

Finally, Cantabria's colorful popular customs, its artisany and gastronomy make it a holiday destination which certainly will not disappoint.

Canary islands The Happy Islands

This paradisiac group of islands, with a preferred climate and constant temperature through all the year, and splendid beaches of fine sand, consists of 7 larger islands (Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Tenerife, La Palma, Gomera, Hierro) and a few smaller ones (Alegranza, Graciosa, Montaña Clara, Roque del Este, Roque del Oeste und Lobos). Surprisingly, the landscape of each island is radically different to the others.

Already Greeks and Romans reported on this archipelago of volcanic origins, and called it the Happy Islands, Garden of the Hesperides, Atlantida, ... Some historians suppose that the legendary continent Atlantis was located here. The islands' original population, called Guanches, is tall and of white skin.
In 1496 the islands became part of the Spanish kingdom, and the ships of Christopher Columbus stopped here on their travel to discover the New World.

B A S Q U E C O U N T R Y

Baskland is of particular interest for its completely autoctonous culture, including a language of its own (Euskera) of quite mysterious origins. Its folklore is autotoctonous too, and you may even watch particular sports like the so-called Basqueball ("pelota vasca").
Today it is one of the most industrialized regions of Spain. Despite of that there are still many areas of almost untouched nature, notably the natural parks of Valderejo, Urkiola, Urdaibai and the magical landscapes along Guernica river. It is a great region for hiking, riding, golf and all sorts of mountain sports. Another atttraction is the steep Cantabrian coast, but don't forget to bring your raincoat to protect yourself of the "txirimiri", the typical very fine rain.
The Cities:
San Sebastian (basque: Donostia)
The famous aristocratic beach resort of great reputation during the 19th century conserves its exclusive and cosmopolitan ambience. Its beautiful buildings and excellent beaches (with somewhat cool water temperatures, though) make it also today a privileged holiday destination.
Bilbao
Although the region's largest city is specially recognized as an important industrial and economic center, it conserves a beautiful historic quarter with the Gothic cathedral among its major attractions. Bilbao's greatest sight however is the Guggenheim Museum, built in 1997. This spectacular building with a facade of glass, titanium and lime stone was designed by american architect Frank O. Gehry and is one of the most outstanding examples of the avantgarde architecture of the 20th century.
Vitoria-Gasteiz
The capital of Euskadi is worth a visit due to its well-preserved historical center and its active cultural life with several festivals of international importance.

B A L E A R I C ISLANDS

Mediterranean Paradise

This wonderful group of islands is divided into Gimnesias (Mallorca, Menorca and Cabrera) in the North, and Pitiusas (Ibiza y Formentera) in the South-West.

Their excellent climate with some 300 days of sun per year, wonderful beaches, a rich cultural offer and the unusual hospitality of their inhabitants make Balearic Islands one of the preferred holiday destinations in Spain. There are more passengers at the airport of Palma de Mallorca than at the airport of any other Spanish city. Hardly anybody who has spent holidays here didn't wish to return, in fact, many visitors have made the islands their permanent home. Each of the islands has a strong personality all of its own, and each of them offers much more but the possibility to spend nice holidays at the beach

Asturias

The Principality of Asturias is constituted of a single province, the capital is Oviedo. It is limited by high mountain ranges, Cordillera Cantabrica, where you find some outstanding natural preserves such as Picos de Europa and the national parks of Covadonga and Somiedo. Asturias is well known for its green landscapes, and just at a few kilometers from high mountain peaks there is the Cantabric coast with great beaches and colorful fishing villages.
Major attractions are the Way of Saint James with its numberless monuments and the Ruta de la Plata, "silver route", which both lead through Asturias.
Asturias too is the home of ancient rites and beliefs, and this region's popular customs are among the most interesting of Spain. Artisany and gastronomy are of high reputation, you may try excellent sea-food along the coast and, in the mountains, typical dishes such as Fabada, made of a special sort of beans, blood sausage and various cheese specialities, together with a glass of cider.
The Cities:
Oviedo
The region's capital, located more or less at its geographical center, is specially remarkable for its pre-romanic monuments and its great cathedral.
Gijon
This historic city, founded already by Romans, is today one of the most important sea-ports and offers active cultural life.
Aviles
Aviles, one of the oldest settlements of the Cantabric area, is of high economical importance too, but conserves as well its traditional style.
All three cities were declared Patrimony of the Humanity by UNESCO, due to their outstanding monuments.

Aragon

This community, bordering on France with the Pyrenees, is of particular interest for its outstanding mountainous landscapes, with glacier lakes and several natural preserves where you still may observe animals which have been extincted in many other regions of Europe long ago. In total contrast is the plain Ebro valley, which is limited by the mountain range Moncayo, in the east.
When you are crossing Aragon's three provinces, Zaragoza, Huesca and Teruel, with many monumental towns, the splendor of the old Kingdom of Aragon, one of the centers of Spanish culture in medieval times, comes alive again.
The mountain ranges offer great possibilities for winter sports, and during the warm season you may explore this almost virginal natural paradise as well as the region's celebrated gastronomy, artisany and folklore.
The Cities:
Zaragoza
The region's capital, located at Ebro river, is one of the great monumental cities of Spain. Its historic heritage of Romans and Moors is documented in its museums.
Teruel
Most notable are the city's great Mudejar style monuments, consequence of a long Moorish dominance. Highlights include the cathedral with its beautiful belltowers and the churches of San Martin, San Pedro and El Salvador.
Huesca
Huesca, located at the foot of the Pyrenee mountain range, offers landscapes of incredible beauty.

Spain - Andalucia

Andalucia is the Spanish Autonomous Community with the greatest number of inhabitants and the second in surface. Its varied landscapes, the benignancy of its climate and the friendly character of its population have turned it into one of the most attractive regions.
3000 hours of sun per year, many kilometers of golden sand beaches and those beautiful natural ports made it a safe refuge already for Phoenician navigators, thousands of years before Christ.
The coast of Huelva and Cadiz corresponds to the Atlantic Ocean and is characterized by fine sand. The Mediterranean coast, from the Strait of Gibraltar to Almeria, on the other hand offers smoother climate with less wind and higher water temperatures.
Andalucia is crossed by Guadalquivir river, the "father" of old civilizations who have left along its borders an impressive monumental track, as well as the high mountain ranges of Sierra Morena and Sistemas Beticos.
The offer for visitors is extremely varied, from golden beaches to those beautiful mountain ranges with their highly interesting fauna, and the famous "white villages" with their richdom in folklore and artisany. There are great possibilities for most different sports as well, from skiing in the Sierra Nevada to surfing at the coast of Cadiz, where you will find ideal conditions as nowhere else in Europe.
Andalucia is the "mother" of the Spanish folklore which is probably best known abroad: here you will live the magic of Flamenco and bullfighting in their most authentic style, and myths like Don Juan and Carmen were born here. A land of great traditions, which has understood as well to assimilate the progress.

Major attractions:
Seville
The Andalusian capital, the third largest city of Spain, is among the most beloved places by tourists, thanks to its unique ambience and its great monuments: the Arabian belltower Giralda, the city's landmark, the enormous cathedral, Torre del Oro, and the old district Barrio Santa Cruz are among the highlights.
Granada
The Moorish Jewel, located at the foots of snowy Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a must-see. Most outstanding is certainly the great Arabian palace Alhambra.
Cordoba
The long-time center of Moorish Spain preserves monuments of outstanding importance. The Mezquita, the great Mosque, is perhaps most impressive.
Malaga
Among its major attractions are the Moorish Alcazaba and, of course, the splendid Mediterranean coast.
Costa del Sol
The coast of Malaga is of great touristical importance, thanks to its splendid beaches, outstanding installations and smooth climate. Among the most famous centers are Marbella, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, and San Pedro de Alcantara.
Ronda
A beautiful town, surrounded by an impressive mountain range.
Almeria
Almeria is among those Andalusian cities which have best preserved their Moorish heritage. Of great touristical attraction is also its splendid coast, Costa de Almeria.
Cadiz
Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Spain, founded by Phoenicians. It is fascinating for its typical Andalusian ambience with whitewashed houses and tropical vegetation.
Huelva
Of great importance as a fishing port as well as for its industry. The city itself and its surroundings are marked by Christopher Columbus, who started his travel to America from the nearby Palos de la Frontera. There you may still visit the monastery where he prepared his travel, alongside with a reconstruction of the port and the three famous ships.
Doñana National Park
This extense preserve including beach areas with moving dunes as well as marshy regions of great value concerning their fauna is located next to the outlet of Guadalquivir river, Matalascañas, Acebuche and El Rocio. Numerous species of migrant birds, on their way from Eurasia to Africa, stay here during the breeding phase.
Costa de la Luz
The "Coast of the Light", in the provinces of Huelva and Cadiz at the Atlantic Ocean, offers splendid beaches of fine sand. Major centers of attraction are Punta Umbria, Islantilla, Isla Cristina, Mazagon, Matalascañas, Barbate, Algeciras, Tarifa, Conil de la Frontera, Chiclana de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa Maria, Rota, Chipiona, and Sanlucar de Barrameda.
Jerez de la Frontera
In the hometown of the world-famous Sherry wine several "Bodegas" may be visited. Jerez too is the site of a renowned equestrian school. Wine and horses mark the ambience of this manorial town.
Jaen
Jaen, located inland, is dominated by its medieval fortress. Additional attractions are the 11th century Moorish baths and the Renaissance cathedral. The nearby Sierra de Cazorla is an outstanding natural preserve.

Marsabit and Beyond

North of Isiolo is Archer’s Post, long considered the official eastern gateway to the wilds of the Northern Frontier District.

Beyond this point you enter a world of harsh beauty, endless arid plains and the great monolithic mesa of Ol Olokwe on the horizon. At the heart of this great desert wilderness is the lush highland oasis of Marsabit. Set over the scorching plains, Marsabit is a small town surrounded by thick verdant forests, watered each morning by cool mists.

Marsabit is the commercial centre of the area, and its streets are a fascinating showcase of the many Northern tribes and cultures.

Nearby Marasabit National Park is a beautiful place, where thick forests and rivers attract plenty of game and great herds of Elephant. This is real elephant country, once home to the mighty Ahmed, a famous tusker whose impressive ivory is now displayed in the Nairobi Museum.

Beyond Marsabit is the Great Northern frontier, and the winding road to Turkana leads to adventure

Maralal and Beyond

Maralal is a frontier town, the beginning of the Great Northern wilderness and the staging post for many great adventures.

This simple town is a thriving centre for the local Samburu people, and the streets are always busy with camels, passing warriors and traders.

Beyond Maralal lies some of Kenya’s most beautiful country. Here the broad arid plains give way to the spectacular Loroghi Hills and the high, wild Matthews ranges. Dry river beds course through this land, and have become the tracks and routes of nomadic camel trains.

The wild country between Maralal and Turkana is ideal for the adventure seeker. Here in these vast empty spaces, there is freedom to explore and lose yourself in the wild.

Whether you want to take a truck to Turkana or a camel through Samburu land, this is your starting point

Kenya's Desert Wilderness

The North of Kenya is a vast trackless expanse of desert and semi desert wilderness. This hot, sparsely populated land is a place of harsh and stunning beauty.

Among the stunning cliffs and ranges and thorn scrub of the North, live some of Kenya’s last nomadic tribes. For these people, the desert wilderness is an integral part of their lives, and they cross these lands with camel trains following traditional routes older than any living memory.

For many people, this is the real Kenya, where the great empty spaces hold the promise of real adventure

Lake Victoria

At Kenya’s Western frontier lies the great expanse of Lake Victoria.

This massive (67,493 sq kms) lake, commonly known as Nyanza, is twice the size of Wales, and forms a natural boundary between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

The lake is the heart of the African continent, the source of its mightiest river, the Nile. In the 19th century the riddle of the Nile was one of the great enigmas of African exploration. After many expeditions failed, John Hanning Speke finally reached these shores in 1858.

The Nile flows northwards, carrying the waters of Nyanza to Egypt and beyond into the Mediterranean.

This mighty body of water is rich in fish life, with shimmering shoals of colourful cichlids and large Nile Perch. Nyanza province is the heartland of the Luo, a tribe known as formidable fisherman.

Fishing brings many visitors to this lake, mainly in search of the Nile Perch, considered a world class game fish. There are three separate fishing lodges on islands within Victoria.

Kisumu is a quiet port town on the Lakeshore, with wide streets and fine colonial architecture. To the south fishing villages line the lake towards the broad waters of Homa Bay.

This area is home to Ruma National Park, a small but attractive park with many unique species.

The best way to appreciate the beauty of this region is on the lake itself. The sun shines brightly, and gentle breezes rise from the water. In trees along the shore, Fish Eagles call to each other with long haunting cries. Sunsets turn the water to gold, as the local fisherman in their canoes pull in their nets and slowly turn for home

Lake Magadi

Deep in the heart of Southern Kenya’s Maasai land is the unearthly Lake Magadi. This 104 sq km soda lake is completely surrounded by vast natural salt flats. These sweltering hot plains prevent any animals reaching the alkaline lake at its centre.

For this reason, thousands of flamingo descend on the lake each year to nest on elevated mud mounds at the lake’s edge safe from any potential predators.

Freshwater springs at the Lake’s shore attract a host of other birds.

A journey to Magadi is to enter another world. The baking salt plains stretch into horizons of shimmering heat haze, while the shallow lake heaves with the pink waves of nesting flamingo. The otherworldly atmosphere is compounded by the intense heat and the isolation.

Magadi is often the final destination for treks from the Nguruman escarpment or the Loita hills.

Proximity to Nairobi means that trekkers can leave the heat of Magadi behind and ascend 1000 metres to the highland cool of the capital

Lake Turkana

At Kenya’s far Northern frontier lies one of the natural wonders of the world.

Lake Turkana is a massive inland sea, the largest desert lake in the world (6,405 sq km). This single body of water is over 250 kilometres long- longer than the entire Kenyan coast.

It is widely known as the Jade Sea, because of the remarkable, almost incandescent, colour of its waters. After a long journey through the sweltering deserts and lava flows of Northern Kenya, the sight of this vast body of bright turquoise water comes as an unearthly, ethereal vision.

The Lake is a source of life for some of Kenya’s most remote tribes. The Turkana, with ancestral ties to Uganda, live a semi-nomadic existence around the Lake. The country’s smallest tribe, the El Molo, live a hunter-gatherer existence on the shores, in villages of distinctive rounded reed huts.

Turkana has one of the longest living histories on earth, and recent fossil evidence unearthed at Koobi Fora has led to the Lake being referred to as ‘The Cradle of Mankind’.

The site lies at the heart of the Sibiloi National Park, a place of stark beauty and prehistoric petrified forests.

The Lake itself is a natural treasure, with the world’s single largest crocodile population. In Turkana these reptiles grow to record size, with some of the largest specimens found on remote windswept Central Island.

Lake Turkana is Kenya’s most remote destination, but one that repays the intrepid traveller with rich rewards

Lake Baringo

Lake Baringo is at the threshold of Northern Kenya, and its freshwaters are an oasis in the arid plains.

This is the traditional home of the Njemps tribe, a unique people who are the only pastoral, cattle herding, tribe who also fish. Among other pastoral tribes such as the Maasai, eating fish is a taboo.

The 129 sq km lake is well stocked with fish, and attracts many Pelicans, Cormorants and Fish Eagles. The Lake is also well populated with Crocodile.

The lake itself is truly beautiful, surrounded by volcanic ranges that stretch as far as the eye can see.

At the lakes heart is Ol Kokwe Island, a stark rocky island that is home to Njemps villages and a well appointed camp. This is an excellent base for exploring the lake, with boat trips ideal for bird and hippo spotting.

Baringo is an ideal stopover on a safari to Northern Kenya.

Lake Bogoria

At the beginning of Kenya’s great Northern Wilderness lies Lake Bogoria.

The lake is the heart of an arid landscape, in the shadow of the dramatic walls of the Siracho Range. The soda waters of the lake attract massive flocks of Flamingo, and the lake is often carpeted with pink.

The 32 sq km lake is still volcanically active, and the Western shore is lined with spouting geysers, spurting steam and bubbling geothermal pools. Fresh water springs at the lake edge attract an abundance of birds and wildlife.

There are many Fish Eagles, which often prey on the local flamingos.

The shores are always lined with Gazelle, Zebra, Baboons and this is one of the best places to see Greater Kudu

Lake Nakuru

Nakuru provides the visitor with one of Kenya’s best known images. Thousands of flamingo, joined into a massive flock, fringe the shores of this soda lake. A pulsing pink swathe of life that carpets the water, the flamingo are a breathtaking sight.

The lake has become world famous for these birds, who visit the lake to feed on algae that forms on the lake bed. They move back and forth, feeding and occasionally and spectacularly taking to flight, filling the sky over the lake with colour. The lake is extremely variable in size- changing from 5 up to 30 sq kms in area.

Nakuru has more than just flamingos. This is a major National Park and an important sanctuary for Rhino. Both Black and White Rhino are found here, and are often seen resting under acacias by the Lake shore.

The park abounds with game. There are huge herds of waterbuck, zebra, buffalo, the endangered Rothschild Giraffe and more.

This is one of your best chances of seeing Leopard in Kenya, and there are several large prides of Lion.

Exploring beyond the lake is always rewarding and there are forests, cliffs, waterfalls and more to be found here.

Nearby Nakuru town is a busy and thriving local centre with a bustling market. The town is a hub for local transport and travel

Lake Elmenteita

Elmenteita is a small (18 sq km) soda lake, nestled in the eastern sweep of the Great Rift Valley.

The Lake is surrounded by spectacular country that played an important role in the early colonial history of Kenya. This was the estate and stronghold of Lord Delamere, the builder of the Kenya colony.

Today Elmenteita is a peaceful and low-key place, lying in the shadow of an impressively peaked hill known locally known as the ‘Sleeping Maasai’.

The lake attracts many visiting flamingo, and it shores are grazed by zebra, gazelle, eland and families of warthog. The lake and its surrounding forests are perfect for long walks and birding

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake, fringed by thick papyrus. The lake is almost 13kms across, but its waters are shallow with an average depth of five metres. Lake area varies greatly according to rainfall, with an average range between 114 and 991 sq kms. At the beginning of the 20th Century, Naivasha completely dried up and effectively disappeared. The resulting open land was farmed, until heavy rains a few years later caused the lake to return to existence, swallowing up the newly established estates.

Afternoon wind and storms can cause the Lake to become suddenly rough and produce high waves. For this reason, the local Maasai christened the lake Nai’posha meaning ''rough water'', which the British later misspelt as Naivasha..

The lake and its surrounds are rich in natural bounty, and the fertile soils and water supply have made this one of Kenya’s prime agricultural regions.

Much of the lake is surrounded by forests of the yellow barked Acacia Xanthophlea, known as the yellow fever tree. These forests abound with bird life, and Naivasha is known as a world class birding destination.

The waters of the lake draw a great range of game to these shores. Giraffes wander among the acacia, Buffalo wallow in the swamps and Colobus monkeys call from the treetops while the Lakes large hippo population sleep the day out in the shallows.

The region surrounding the Lake is well worth exploring. There are two more smaller lakes nearby, Oloidien, and Sonachi, a bright green cater lake.

Hell’s Gate National Park lies beside the lake. This Park was named for its pair of massive red tinged cliffs framing a geothermically active interior of steam vents and bubbling springs. The park is home to a profusion of plains game and birdlife. Walking is permitted, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.

Boat trips on the lake are widely available, and is a great way to spend an afternoon or morning.

Sunsets are always stunning, with the haunting call of a Fish Eagle high over the Lake bringing the day to a perfect end

Kenya's Unique Lakes

Kenya straddles the centre of the Great Rift Valley, the vast prehistoric fissure that stretches from Jordan to Mozambique. From the North to the South of Kenya, the valley is lined with a series of freshwater and soda based volcanic lakes.

Travelling from lake to lake is a journey through a world of contrasts: From papyrus fringed Naivasha with its abundance of birdlife, through Nakuru with its famous flamingo population, the steam geysers of Bogoria, the crocodiles and hippo of Baringo and North to the mighty Jade Sea of Turkana

Mt Kenya Forest

Mt Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak is regarded as the realm of Ngai, god of the local Kikuyu people. Traditionally, all Kikuyu homes were built to face this sacred peak. They call it Kirinyaga, or place of light.

The mountain itself is an awe-inspiring sight with its ragged peaks, and equatorial snow. But the Mountain is surrounded by a belt of verdant forest that is an equally fascinating destination.

While the 5199 metre summit is a difficult technical climb, the lesser peak of Point Lenana (4985m) can be easily reached by any fit trekker. This trek takes between 3 and 5 days, through a fascinating world of forests, wildlife, unique montane vegetation including podocarpus and grounsel, and finally one of the worlds rarest sights, equatorial snow.

For those who don’t want to climb the Mountain the cool highlands that surround its base are well worth a visit. The forests are ideal for game viewing, and there are crystal clear mountain streams that are the perfect place to land a Trout

Arabuko Sokoke

North of Mombasa is the coastal forest of Arabuko Sokoke.

This fascinating forest wilderness is nestled beside the beaches of Watamu, just minutes from the waters of the Indian Ocean.

But enter the forest and discover a world apart from the beaches and reefs. In this 400 sq km reserve there is an untold wealth of natural beauty. The air is filled with butterflies and birds, the trees alive with monkeys and the forest floor home to many smaller mammals.

The forest stretches to the headwaters of the mighty Sabaki river, and occasionally herds of elephant pass through the forest en route to the river.

This rich forest once hid another secret. The 13th century Swahili town of Gedi thrived here for hundreds of years, hidden away from Portuguese invaders and the influence of the outside world. The town was eventually deserted, and today the ruins of Gedi, lying among the trees and twisting vines of the forest are a haunting reminder of the past

Aberdares

The Aberdares are the third highest range of mountains in Kenya, reaching a summit of just over 4000m. This massive range is well known for its thick salient forests, and their prolific game.

These high altitude forests are broken by moorlands and plains, and through the abundant tree cover there are sensational views of the Rift Valley and the peak of Mt Kenya.

The forest is a hidden world of wildlife. The thick vegetation provides perfect cover for countless species. Very large herds of Elephant and Buffalo move almost silently through the undergrowth, while overhead noisome birds and colobus monkeys dominate the canopy.

At night the forest comes alive, the cries of hyrax and the distinctive rasping growl of leopard echoing among the trees. The Aberdares has two ‘Tree Hotels’, unique safari lodges set high in the canopy above waterholes and natural salt licks. Night sees an unending procession of game emerge from the forests to visit these clearings. This is an ideal opportunity for guests to unobtrusively observe game at length.

A night in the Aberdares is unforgettable. Elephant herds surround the waterholes, drink and then fade way into the forest. Buffalo bulls fight over territory in spectacular battles. Sleek Genet cats descend from the trees and slip through halls of the lodge. the Occasionally a Rhino or the elusive Bongo antelope appear and visit the waterhole.

The Aberdares can also be explored by vehicle, or on foot. There are trekking trails throughout the forests, and across the moorlands. A few days spent here is one of Kenya’s best forest treks.

The foothills of the Aberdares are ideal for exploring on horseback and there are crystal clear mountain streams that abound with Trout. The Aberdares are a great place for waterfalls. There are a series of spectacular falls along the range, and at Nyahururu, Thompson's Falls have became a popular rest stop for traveller

Kakamega

The equatorial rainforest of Kakamega is a living museum of unique and rare species.

This wonderful place is a treasure trove where the massive trees and thick wet undergrowth are the habitat of a world of diverse wildlife.

The sheer abundance of birdlife here is overwhelming. This is an important primate reserves, and the forest is full of monkeys of many species. Beautiful Chameleons are often seen in the undergrowth.

At night the forest is a different world, the air filled with bats and ringing with the sounds of frogs, night birds and the booming call of the giant forest squirrel.

Despite its easy accessibility, Kakamega is a quiet haven for nature lovers, the perfect place to relax for a few days. The forest has many walking trails, and there are plenty of very good guides available

Kenya's Forests

Kenya has a wide range of forests, from coastal forest, through central high mountain forests to the thick wet rainforests of the West. These forests support more than just a diverse range of tree and plant species; they are also the territory of a wide range of wildlife, from rare chameleons to elephant herds, elusive leopards to colourful butterflies, monkey families and prolific birdlife.

Kenyan forests offer the traveller a wide range of options, from treetop lodges to trekking trails

Taita and Chyulu Hills

Framing the vast plains of Tsavo, and lying within view of majestic Mt Kilimanjaro, are the Taita and Chyulu Hills.

The Chyulu hills are considered to be some of the youngest volcanic mountains in the world, born out of the earth only 500 years ago.

The beautiful hills are bordered by an expanse of black lava flow known as Sheitani, the source of many local legends.

This is a paradise of elephant herds, plains game, cheetah, remote Maasai villages and wonderful views of Mt Kilimanjaro.

Close to Tsavo East, the nearby Taita Hills are home to a private game sanctuary, with a wide variety of game including Lion, cheetah, elephant and plains game. Prolific bird life includes the extremely rare Taita Falcon, a bird recorded in early Egyptian hieroglyphics.The Taita are in fact three groups of hills, the Dabida, Sagalla and Kasigau.

In nearby Taveta, there are two beautiful lakes Jipe and Chala, fed by streams from the snows of Kilimanjaro. Chala is particularly stunning, and its deep blue waters lie beneath a perfect view of Kilimanjaro.

This region is more remote than the more visited parks and reserves of southern Kenya, the perfect destination looking for anyone looking for an opportunity to get away from it all and relax in the wild

Shimba Hills

The Shimba Hills National Reserve is located just 48 kms from the coast, but at 500 metres they make a cool change from the tropical coastal climate. The reserve is made up of both open grassland and dense rainforest, all with stunning views across the Indian Ocean.

The Reserve has a variety of species including Elephant, Giraffe and Buffalo as well as the rare Roan and Sable antelope. The forests are home to a number of unusual species including the Black and White Colobus, Serval cats, Red Duiker and Suni Antelope.

An abundance of birdlife lives is found among the hills, including Honey guides, Turacos, woodpeckers and Sunbirds.

The Shimba Hills are a natural and peaceful haven, easily accessed from the beaches of the Kenyan coast

Western Highlands

This truly spectacular region is one of Kenya’s best kept secrets.

The highlands and escarpement of the North Rift Valley provide some of the country's most awe-inspiring views, across the broad and beautiful Kerio Valley. The scenic vistas around the Elgeyo escarpement are truly stunning, especially from the 'World's End' viewpoint at Nyaru. Waterfalls flow down the face of these escarpements, and at Chebloch, on the valley floor water runs through a deep and narrow gorge with sheer rock walls.

The highlands are an excellent place to explore, and there is plenty to discover among the many hills and ranges. From the high Tugen Hills, there are excellent views across arid rift valley floor to Lake Baringo. The lush green hills around Kericho are home to Kenya's tea industry, and the nearby Kisii Community is world renowned for their beautiful soapstone carving.

Unlike most of Kenya’s mountains and ranges, the rolling Cherangani Hills are not volcanic in origin. The hills are centred upon a forested escarpment and surrounded on three sides by sheer cliff faces. They are criss-crossed by walking paths, and ease of direction and undemanding slopes make this excellent country for relaxing hill walking.

The paths cross open farmland, pass through sheltered valleys and wind their way up to forested peaks.

This is a birding mecca, and whether you are a serious ornithologist or a hobby birder, you should not miss the Cheranganis. There are excellent bird guides available locally.

Wildlife enthusiasts can also visit the nearby Saiwa Swamp National Park. This is one of the few parks that permits walking, and is an ideal place for a days hike. This wild country is home to many and varied species, the best known being the very rare Sitatunga. This semi-amphibious antelope lives in the depths of these swamps. Rimoi National Reserve, in the Kerio Valley, is an important area for elephant migration.

The Western Highlands have become a major draw for sporting tourists. This is the home of many of Kenya's world famous runners. This is probably the finest place on earth for high altitide athletic training, and many international athletes visit training camps around Iten and Kaptagat.

But the real beauty of these Highlands lies in the solitude, peace, and isolation to be found in the hills

Loroghi Hills

Rising high above the arid plains of Northern Kenya, the Loroghi Hills are perfect for a trek with a difference.

These spectacular hills rise up through a series of escarpments to a peak of 2580 metres. The views from the edge of the Lesiolo escarpment are astonishing, the Rift Valley floor stretches out before you and merges with a distant horizon.

Exploring the hills takes the trekker through deep forested valleys and across high open plains, rich with bird and animal life.

But what makes treks through these hills so special is the resident Samburu tribes. Walking with a Samburu guide, you can pass through many small villages, meet the locals, walk the plains with cattle herders and lone warriors or be invited to spend a night in a Samburu home.

This gives you the chance to experience a very different way of life.

Mt Elgon

Rising from the jungles that border Uganda, Mt Elgon is an impressively craggy extinct Volcano. This remote region makes for interesting trekking through deep forest and across broad moorlands.

There is plenty of wildlife and plenty to discover. The peaks are ideal for climbing, and shelter a series of warm geothermal springs.

The mountain has many caves for the visitor explore. In these caves, known collectively as Elkony, ancient cave paintings decorate the walls, and bats and rock hyrax are found among the winding passageways.

The most famous cave of all is Kitum, where each night Elephant herds gather and begin a slow procession deep into the mountain. The elephants make their way through the caves, following well worn paths made by generations before them. Deep in the cave, they use their tusks to excavate the walls, seeking the natural salt which they lick from the scarred rock

Longonot

Standing over the shores of Lake Naivasha, at 2886 metres this massive dormant volcano dominates the landscape for miles around.

The brooding hulk of the Mountain is lined with spectacular fissures and laval canyons. As you climb these slopes, you pass through herds of grazing game as spectacular views of the Rift Valley and Naivasha unfold below.

Its vast crater is an awesome sight, the jagged edge surrounding a broad expanse of vegetation. Geothermal steam trickles upwards from the walls, while buffalo and other game make their way across the crater floor.

A climb up Mount Longonot is an ideal day trip from either Nairobi or Naivasha

Mt Kenya

Mt Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak is regarded as the realm of Ngai, god of the local Kikuyu people. Traditionally, all Kikuyu home were built to face this sacred peak. They call it Kirinyaga, or place of light.

The mountain is an awe-inspiring sight. Its ragged series of peaks are crowned with snow, and its slopes are thick with forest. The mountain is best seen at dawn, when the days early light silhouettes its impressive summit high over the surrounding plains.

While the 5199 metre summit is a difficult technical climb, the lesser peak of Point Lenana (4985m) can be easily reached by any fit trekker. This trek takes between 3 and 5 days, through a fascinating world of forests, wildlife, unique montane vegetation including podocarpus and grounsel, and finally one of the worlds rarest sights, equatorial snow.

For those who don’t want to climb the Mountain the cool highlands that surround its base are well worth a visit. The forests are ideal for game viewing, and there are crystal clear mountain streams that abound with Trout

The hills and mountains of Kenya

Kenya is a land of contrasts, and nowhere is this more apparent than in its range of altitudes. The hills and mountains of Kenya are a world apart from the lowland valleys and plains.

High altitude Kenya offers something for everyone. There are refreshing hill walks through bird rich areas or more active hikes into montane forests.
Above all there is mighty Mt Kenya, whose slopes are the perfect trekking destination. The mountain’s alpine peak is a challenging technical summit for the experienced mountaineer

Malindi and Watamu

The small town of Malindi is at the centre of a strip of idyllic tropical beaches offering the visitor a range of world class resorts and quiet relaxing hideaways. Further south, the sleepy village of Watamu is fronted by wide white beaches. This tranquil haven is home to several well established resorts, and many private guesthouses scattered through the forest along the deserted shore.

At Watamu a Marine National Park has been established, an ideal day trip for divers and snorkellers alike.

Northwest of Malindi is the spectacular Marafa Depression, locally known as Nyari and popularly known as Hell's Kitchen. An extensive series of sandstone gorges and sheer gullies, this unique and otherworldly landscape has become part of local folklore.

The thick jungles of the Arabuko Sokoke Forest reserve hide a world of wonders. In the cool of the forest winding paths will take you in search of rare endemic birds and mammals, and visiting herds of Elephant.

The forest holds another secret, the lost town of Gedi, a deserted trading Swahili town hidden deep in the forests, whose winding passages and crumbling walls tell of a long and mysterious past.

Walk through the Forest, explore the mangroves by boat, dive on the reef or try your hand at big game fishing. At the North coast you have all these choices and more, with the space and freedom to relax, unwind, and soak up the atmosphere

Tana River Delta

On the remote shores of Kenya’s far Northern coast, the mighty waters of the Tana River meet the sea in a massive River Delta.

This isolated region is a truly unique location, where the great inland wilderness of the North meets the beauty of the coast. The Tana delta is a place of spectacular panoramic views, encompassing a scrubland teeming with game and birds and the endless rolling sands of deserted beaches.

Here you can experience the best of both worlds, spending the morning exploring a river filled with hippo and crocodile by canoe, and swimming in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean in the afternoon.

This is the perfect destination for those looking for a safari with a difference.

Lamu

Lamu is a place like no other, a peaceful tropical island where life is lived at it’s own relaxed rhythm, but a place whose history is as mysterious and fascinating as the winding streets of it’s medieval stone town.

The island itself is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and endless beaches, where tiny villages nestle among coconut and mango plantations and lateen sailed dhows ply the waters. But Lamu’s real attraction is its Old town.

The town of Lamu began life as a 14th century Swahili settlement, but the island has seen many visitors and influences, including Portuguese explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs. All left their mark, but Lamu developed its own particular culture, which has ultimately endured.

Lamu’s narrow streets remain unchanged, and in the markets and squares around the fort life moves at the same pace as it always has. There are no vehicles on this island, and the donkey and the dhow remain the dominant form of transport.

The people of Lamu are great believers in tradition and custom, and this is a strong society built on a respect for the past.

For the traveller, Lamu is a hypnotically exotic experience, made even more enjoyable by the relaxed and welcoming attitudes of the locals. To visit Lamu is to enter another world, and the visitor finds themselves becoming a part of this world. Life slows down, and long days are spent strolling along the waterfront, exploring the town or relaxing on the beaches.

Dhow safaris can take you beyond Lamu into the surrounding archipelago, where isolated villages, ancient ruins and a few luxurious and exclusive resorts lie hidden among the islands of Manda, Siyu, Pate and Kiwayu.

This idyllic island speaks to the heart and soul, and a trip to Lamu is a romantic experience that can become a life long affair.

North Coast Beaches

The coastline North of Mombasa is a world of enthralling history and natural beauty.

The coast is lined with pristine palm fringed beaches, and the calm inviting waters of the Indian Ocean. The beaches are broken by the wide mouth of Kilifi Creek, whose azure waters are a popular port of call on the international yachting circuit.

The beaches of Nyali, Vipingo, Kikambala and Shanzu are home to a wide range of World Class resorts with fine cuisine and services.

The peaceful beach havens of Mtwapa and Takaungu offer an ideal escape from the outside world, with endless deserted beaches.

The offshore reefs are alive with coral, myriad fish, sea turtles and dolphins. Both outer and inner reef walls offer world class diving with spectacular coral gardens and drop offs, and Kenya's best wreck diving on the MV Dania.

South Coast Beaches

The coastline south of Mombasa is a tropical paradise of palm fringed white sand beaches, where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean meet beautiful coral reefs.

The protective reefs have created ideal beaches with calm, inviting waters. Days are filled with sunshine and nights are balmy and warm with gentle sea breezes.

The offshore reefs are alive with coral, myriad fish, sea turtles and dolphins. Both outer and inner reef walls offer world class diving with spectacular coral gardens and drop offs. At Kisite-Mpunguti, a Marine Reserve has been established around beautiful Wasini Island, an ideal day trip for divers and snorkellers.

The beaches are bordered by lush green coastal rainforests with prolific birdlife and variety of wildlife including baboons, rare colobus monkeys and even leopard.

A wide range of World Class resorts, centred around Diani Beach allow visitors to relax and enjoy this natural paradise with the best standards of accommodation, service and cuisine.

The south coast also has many smaller quiet getaways such as Tiwi Beach, ideal for travellers looking for a low key break.

Inland, the fertile hinterland of Kwale District consists of small villages inhabited by the Wakamba, Digo and Duruma tribes.

Further south, the small fishing village of Shimoni is home to a series of deep mysterious coastal caves that stretch from the sea to deep into the jungles. Historically, these caves were long used as a refuge for Dhow Sailors, Arab slavers and explorers.

Shimoni is also an excellent base for big game fishing in the waters of the Pemba Channel.

Whether you are looking for a base to actively explore this fascinating region, or just somewhere to unwind and find peace, Kenya’s south coast has everything you could wish for.

Kenya's Exotic Coast

The Kenyan coast is lined with pristine white sand beaches fringing the warm inviting waters of the Indian Ocean. Here the wilderness meets the sea, and the ocean itself holds a world of spectacular coral reefs teeming with life and colour.

The coast is a place with a long and exotic history, its calm blue waters the traditional passage of the Arabian Spice Trade.

Along the length of this coast, Arab and Portuguese forts, Old Towns and the overgrown, deserted ruins of Swahili outposts bear witness to this fascinating history. In the winding medieval streets and bustling markets of Lamu and Mombasa Old Town, life has continued unhurried and unchanged for more than 400 years.

This blend of natural beauty and living history creates an exotic paradise unlike anywhere else on earth

Meru

Meru is an explorer’s paradise.

The least visited of Kenya’s larger parks and reserves, this remote region is a lush green Eden. From the parks southern boundary, seemingly endless series of streams branch out from the Tana River bringing life to the land.

Meru’s thick forests, tall grass and stands of Doum Palm are surrounded by rolling hills and stark Kopjes.

This is the wild country where the world famous lioness Elsa, of Born Free fame, was returned to the wild in the 1950’s.

This isolated unspoilt wilderness lets the visitor have the freedom to explore the park at a relaxed pace without encountering other people. Game tracking can be challenging but very rewarding. Lion are often seen on high rocky outposts, and large herds of Buffalo and Elephant can also be found. Other species include Reticulated Giraffe, Oryx, Lesser Kudu and Eland.

The thick riverine forest is perfect for birding, with species.

Further along the Tana river from Meru, there is access to the smaller Kora National Park, and three reserves Bisanadi, North Kitui, and Rahole.

This entire area is sparsely populated and wild, a place that rewards the visitor with untold natural riches.

Meru is an untouched treasure awaiting discovery

Samburu, Shaba & Buffalo Springs

In the arid North of Kenya, water means life. The waters of the great Ewaso Nyiro river draw wildlife in great numbers to its banks, creating an oasis of green.

This river flows through three great northern reserves, Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba. This is spectacular country, set against a backdrop of the mighty Mountain Ol Olokwe.

The verdant riverine forest is a stark contrast to the arid thorn studded plains. Samburu is visited by large herds of Elephants, drawn by the promise of water. In the dry season, the elephants use their tusks to dig deep into the dry river beds, unearthing precious water. These waterholes then become a focal point for other game.

The Samburu region is the best place to find several endemic Northern species, including Gerenuk, the Reticulated Giraffe, and Grevy’s Zebra.

The forests along the river banks are home to many birds, including local species such as the Palm Nut Vulture and the Vinaceous Dove. These forests are also home to many Leopards, often seen at dusk. The sight of one of these beautiful and elusive creatures is always a rare treat.

Lions are also frequently seen on the riverbanks, and Cheetah can be found on the open plains. On rare occasion, packs of African Hunting Dogs are sighted passing through the reserve.

Shaba was where Joy Adamson, author of Born Free spent her final years, returning a leopard to the wild. This was the subject of her final book, Queen of Shaba.

More recently, Shaba served as the location for the hit series Survivor Africa, which pitted its contestants against the challenges of this wild remote country.

The Ewaso Nyiro is also an important water source for the Samburu villages surrounding the reserves. The Samburu culture is a truly fascinating one, sharing a great deal of ancestral and linguistic ties to the Maasai.

The Samburu are herders of Camels and Goats, and are often seen on the reserve boundaries bringing their animals to water.

In areas around the reserves, there are several private sanctuaries working closely with the Samburu to protect both their tribal lands and the local wildlife. These sanctuaries are open to guests, and are well worth visiting for those interested in Samburu culture.

The entire Samburu region is a place of breathtaking and magical beauty, a place where the vision of a deep red sunset silhouetting the doum palms along the river as a leopard emerges to hunt brings the perfect end to a day on safari

Laikipia

This spectacular region is considered the gateway to Kenya’s wild Northern frontier country. Wild and sparsely populated, much of Laikipia is covered by large privately owned ranches.

These ranches cover a wide range of landscapes, with high plains and low forested valleys. On most ranches cattle share the land with free ranging wildlife. In recent years this wildlife has become a valuable asset, with many ranches now establishing guest houses, homestays and private camps within their boundaries. This has proven a great success, and many ranches now rely on a thriving tourist trade.

Importantly, community ranches have also formed. These are sanctuaries created by local communities, who have combined small scale farms and grazing land into large group ranches. Once again, the tourist trade has proved infinitely more profitable than agriculture or herding, and this allows them to use their traditional lands in a way that is sustainable and productive. Significantly, they are conserving more than just wildlife, but also a way of life. These ranches have bolstered a sense of local identity and strengthened community ties. These community ranches are the best place in Kenya to learn more about traditional cultures and their role in modern world.

The result is an area of beautiful wilderness, where protected game roams freely and safely. Centred around the original Laikipia National Reserve, this area has become a sanctuary for Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, and a wealth of plains game, including many endemic Northern species.

Laikipia has become a focus for many conservation efforts, and some ranches have become breeding sanctuaries for Rhinoceros. On Ol Pejeta, a refuge for Chimpanzees rescued from the pet and bush meat trade has been established.

Visiting a private ranch in this region is an ideal way of exploring the Kenyan wilderness while getting off the well beaten paths of the National Parks.

The real attraction of Laikipia is a wonderful sense of freedom. Not just the freedom of wide open spaces, but freedom of choice. Staying on a private ranch gives a wide range of options for both activities and relaxation. Game viewing tends to be more intimate and adventurous.

The emphasis here is on personal services, backed up by excellent local knowledge and guiding. As a personal guest, you will have the chance to set your own schedules, explore at your own pace, and discover the wild in your own way

Tsavo East and West

The twin National Parks of Tsavo East and West together form one of Africa’s largest wilderness reserves. Tsavo as a whole consists of 10 million acres of pure wilderness, incorporating savannah, ranges and hills, acacia and montane forest, and an extensive river system. This single National Park is larger than the island of Jamaica.

The vast plains of Tsavo are crossed by the main Nairobi-Mombasa railroad. This historic railway was, in 1899, the scene of one of Africa’s greatest Adventure stories. Two large lions actively preyed on the railway workers as they built a bridge over the Tsavo river, claiming over 120 victims. They evaded hunters for well over a year, and the legend of the Maneaters of Tsavo was born.

The sheer scale of Tsavo gives the visitor a chance to really get away from it all, and to explore the wild in total solitude.

On safari here you will see large herds of Elephant, their hides often a luminous red with dust, as well as Lion, Buffalo, Eland, Giraffe Impala, Kudu and possibly Rhinoceros.

Tsavo is a birdwatcher’s paradise with numerous species of weavers, hornbills, sunbirds, rollers, and raptors commonly seen.

One of Tsavo’s most interesting geographical features is the Lugard Falls, where white water rages through a series of spectacular rock formations.

Also not to be missed is the volcanic Mzima springs. These natural springs produce 50 million gallons of fresh sparkling water daily. These waters are alive with shoals of barbel and Hippopotamus and waterfowl. A unique underwater observatory has been built that gives you an incredible view of this crystal clear underwater world, where massive hippos glide silently through swirling shoals of barbel.

These springs have created a sprawling wetland paradise of giant Raphia palms and oases alive with waterbirds.

Both Tsavo East and West are ideal for those who enjoy solitude and a chance to explore wilderness without encountering other people. Lodges and Camps tend to be remote and accessible by long drives or air transfer. Of the two Parks, Tsavo East is the more remote and less visited.

Many of these can organize game walks and other activities.

The relative proximity of Tsavo East to the coast make it an ideal safari destination for those staying on the coast, or wishing to combine a safari and beach holiday. Many coast based visitors combine a safari to Tsavo with visits to the Shimba Hills and Taita game sanctuaries, Amboseli National Park, or the Chyulu Hills

Amboseli

Amboseli is a land of giants.

This is a place of wide dry plains, where the horizons stretch into the furthest distance and become one with the sky. Amboseli is renowned for its elephant populations and large herds, including some impressively tusked bulls are drawn to a series of large, lush swamplands.

But the most impressive giant of all is Mt Kilimanjaro. Africa’s largest mountain lies just over the border in Tanzania, but the most impressive views of its snow-capped peak are to be found in Amboseli. The early light of dawn turns the mountain a dark hue of purple, and its snows into an ethereal pink. The sight of Kilimanjaro high above herds of elephant crossing the plains of Amboseli is a timeless African image.

This area is home to many Maasai communities, centred around the Amboseli National Park. The park is 400 sq kms, with its southern boundary along the Tanzanian border.

The park is home to more than just Elephants, and herds of wildebeest, zebra and impala graze on the open plains.. There are areas of acacia forest that make for good birding, and are home to many small mammals. Cheetah are also often sighted here.

The park is centred around a large hill, with fantastic views of the surrounding plains, often crossed by whirlwinds that send winding columns of dust into the sky.

This open country is good walking territory, and many camps and lodges organise game walks, or trips to spend time in local Maasai villages.

Maasai Mara

South Western Kenya is the heartland of the Maasai.

The Maasai are a strongly independent people who still value tradition and ritual as an integral part of their everyday lives. They regard themselves not just as residents of this area but that they are as much a part of the life of the land as the land is part of their lives.

Traditionally, the Maasai rarely hunt and living alongside wildlife in harmony is an important part of their beliefs. Lions and Wildebeest play as important a role in their cultural beliefs as their own herds of cattle. This unique co-existence of man and wildlife makes this Maasai land one of the world’s most unique wilderness regions.

At the heart of these lands is the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, widely considered to be Africa’s greatest wildlife reserve. The Mara comprises 200 sq miles of open plains, woodlands and riverine forest. Contiguous with the plains of the Serengeti, the Mara is home to a breathtaking array of life. The vast grassland plains are scattered with herds of Zebra, Giraffe, Gazelle, and Topi. The Acacia forests abound with Birdlife and Monkeys. Elephants and Buffalo wallow in the wide Musiara Swamp. The Mara and Talek rivers are brimming with Hippos and Crocodiles.

Each year the Mara plays host to the world’s greatest natural spectacle, the Great Wildebeest Migration from the Serengeti. From July to October, the promise of rain and fresh life giving grass in the north brings more than 1.3 million Wildebeest together into a single massive herd. They pour across the border into the Mara, making a spectacular entrance in a surging column of life that stretches from horizon to horizon.

At the Mara River they mass together on the banks before finally plunging forward through the raging waters, creating a frenzy as they fight against swift currents and waiting crocodiles.

The wildebeest bring new life to the Mara, not just through their cycle of regeneration of the grasslands, but for the predators who follow the herds.

The Mara has been called the Kingdom of Lions and these regal and powerful hunters dominate these grasslands. Cheetah are also a common sight in the Mara, as are Hyena and smaller predators such as Jackals.

The Mara is an awesome natural wonder, a place where Maasai warriors share the plains with hunting lions, a place of mighty herds and timeless cycles of life, death and regeneration.

The Mara is probably the best serviced of all Kenyan Parks and Reserves with a wide range of Accommodation for any budget. The Reserve is a popular attraction with Safari operators. The reserve is ideal for game drives, and some lodges and camps offer walks and balloon safaris.

Wildlife moves freely in and out of the reserve, and through neighbouring Maasai lands. Outside the boundaries of the reserve there are many other small camps and lodges, some of which offer walking, horse riding and other safari options.

The Loita Hills and the Nguruman Escarpment, both considered sacred to the Maasai, offer high forest trekking opportunities for the adventurous traveller

KENYA

Most visitors to Kenya want to experience the country’s world famous wildlife. But there are many different ways to experience the Kenyan wilderness.

Whether you want to drive by a pride of lions in a four wheel drive, walk through herds of plains game, watch a herd of elephants from the comfortable veranda of a safari lodge, track game on horseback or search for rare birds in a thick rainforest, the possibilities are endless.

Kenya’s wilderness areas are famous world wide. The name Kenya has become synonymous with the great wilds of Africa but they represent far more than you would ever expect, protecting and showcasing a broad range of habitats and species.

They are complex ecologies that depend on the conservation of diverse natural resources and systems. The Parks, Sanctuaries and Conservation areas co-exist with and depend on the communities that surround them, and work together to protect the future.

From the depths of a coral reef to alpine mountains, from one of the world’s most endangered owls to a herd of wildebeest more than a million strong, the wilderness of Kenya is a wonder to behold.

Coffee Museum in Matagalpa

Nicaragua is a major producer of coffee, which is exported throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. As a vital contributor to the Nicaraguan economy, it seems fitting that there should be a museum devoted to all aspects of this popular beverage. The Coffee Museum, situated close to the central park of the city of Matagalpa, is a popular tourist attraction for visitors to Nicaragua’s main coffee growing area.
Colorful murals adorn the walls of the Coffee Museum and a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, which were discovered in the Matagalpa region, is on display. Visitors can see old photos depicting the history of the city along with pictures of the Matagalpa’s mayors going right back to 1948. But, of course, the emphasis is on coffee, and the Coffee Museum has numerous interesting exhibits of modern and ancient machinery used in the growing and processing of coffee. Visitors will learn about the history of coffee in the Matagalpa region of Nicaragua as well as what is involved in coffee production - from cultivation to when it is served in countless different ways.
Coffee production was introduced to the country in the 1880s when the Nicaraguan government invited young German immigrants to settle in the northern highlands region of Nicaragua with the goal of promoting coffee growing. Many Germans accepted the offer and to this day, descendents of those first immigrants continue to be the mainstay of coffee production in Nicaragua.
Coffee plants can grow into trees, which reach a height of 10-15 meters, but on coffee plantations they are restricted to about three meters for harvesting purposes. The coffee plant has deep green foliage and remains productive for about 15 to 20 years. The creamy white flowers of the coffee plant are richly scented and self-pollinating. They wither within a few days of appearing, being replaced by clusters of fruit. There are two semi-oval furrowed beans within each fruit. Harvesting is best done by hand because trees carry green, ripe and overripe fruits at the same time. Through a fairly lengthy process, the coffee beans are stripped from the fruit, washed, sun-dried, removed from their parchment-like skin through the use of centrifugal force, polished, expertly sorted, packaged and shipped all over the world.
There is little doubt that coffee-lovers will see their favorite beverage in a whole new light after a visit to Nicaragua’s fascinating Coffee Museum.

Masaya

Masaya Volcano – Some would say that Masaya is the most accessible active volcano on the planet. The volcano owes this reputation to the paved road that runs to the summit of Santiago crater. It is located in a protected area known as the Masaya Volcano National Park. The park features more than seven cones and a crater lake. It is also home to a large number of crater dwelling parakeets who have chosen to make their homes in the toxic inner walls of the still smoking Santiago crater. Santiago last erupted in 2001.

Apoyo Volcano – The Apoyo Volcano is now considered to be dormant. It last erupted roughly 20 000 years ago and has since filled up with beautiful blue ocean water. The Apoyo Crater Lake is the biggest of the fourteen crater lakes to be found in Nicaragua. The crater's interior is a nature reserve that features over 145 species of birds, howler monkeys, white face monkeys and several rare fish species. The Apoyo Volcano is shared by the Masaya and Granada provinces

Chinandega

San Cristobal Volcano - One of Nicaragua’s seven active volcanoes, San Cristobal is located just outside the city of Cinandega. It has constantly erupted since 2001 and today is the country’s highest volcano at 1745 meters above sea level. The hike to the summit is difficult and recommended only for the fittest hikers. If you do not fit this category and still which to make it to the peak, you may be able to arrange a shorter climb from the adjoining Casitas Volcano.

Cosiguina Volcano - The Cosiguina Volcano is located in the province of Chinandega. It is the most north-western volcano in the country and rises to 800 meters above sea level. There is a 3-5 day hike through forest reserve that will take you up the crater to the lip of the volcano from where you can enjoy a most memorable view of the Gulf of Fonseca and its many islands. There is also an incredibly beautiful crater lake hidden at the bottom of the volcano's steep inner walls.

Rivas

Concepción Volcano – located on the Island of Ometepe, Concepción rises an impressive 1610 meters above sea level. It is the second highest in the country and is also incredibly beautiful. Concepción last spewed ash and smoke in 1999 but has not seen lava flow since 1957. The slopes of the cone have been claimed for a nature reserve and are home to deer and monkeys. There is a difficult 7-9 hour climb up the forested sides of the volcano.

Maderas Volcano – Also found on Ometepe Island, Maderas is located in Lake Nicaragua. It rises to 1394 meters above sea level and is usually clouded in thick mist. As a result, it has been claimed as a protected cloud forest reserve. Maderas is far more inactive than its twin Concepción and, as a result, enjoys more plant and animal diversity. It features two popular hikes – an easy two to six hour hike through farmland and cloud forest or a more grueling and mud-filled hike to the summit which takes approximately three to five hours. Maderas features a misty and cold crater lake which can only be enjoyed by trekking to the summit.

Volcanoes in Nicaragua

You don’t have to be a geologist to appreciate the immense power and beauty of a volcano in Nicaragua. The incredibly fertile soil that surrounds these “creatures of the earth” helps create an incredibly beautiful home for many animals and plants. Add to this the gentle rumbling of the living, breathing volcano beneath your feet and the thrill of knowing you’re so close to one of earth’s most awesome natural powers – all of this combines to create one of the most amazing natural experiences that man can enjoy.

Nicaragua’s Volcanoes can be both fierce and tranquil – it all depends on when you visit.

Nicaragua has one of the most impressive volcanic chains in Central America. It features more than fifty volcanic cones of which seven are active. These cones rise off a flat coastal plain which is just above sea level – a geographical feature that makes them more striking to look at and more accessible to climbers and hikers. Of course, this would be a very long page if we were to write on all fifty volcanoes. Instead, we have chosen to list only a few of the more popular volcanoes. Below you will find a list and brief description of the top nine volcanoes in Nicaragua. Remember to check with authorities that the volcano is ‘safe’ before attempting to climb or hike to their summits.

Leon

Cerro Negro Volcano – Located in the middle of the Maribios Volcano Mountain Range, the small but incredibly active Cerro Negro continues to erupt with some ferocity. The volcano currently measures just 450 meters in height and is one of the newest volcanoes to emerge from beneath the earth in the Americas. Cerro Negro had eleven heavy eruptions in the 20th century, the last of which resulted in a further three craters opening up at its base. It is possible to hike up the black gravel-like sides of the volcano. The hike up the north face takes about one hour and after tackling that you might try to slide down the steep western face.

Telica Volcano – This spectacular volcano is situated in Leon in the central parts of the Maribios Volcano range. This volcano is roughly 1 061 meters above sea level and its western face is being constantly eroded. While the volcano last erupted in 1999, it still emits a light but constant smoke. There is a long but enjoyable hike up the east face of the summit that takes roughly 6-8 hours. There are three starting points and you can choose to make a round trip or continue on to the village of San Jacinto. The most spectacular thing to see at the summit is the vertical inner walls of the volcano’s crater.

Momotombo Volcano – Noted as one of Nicaragua’s most picturesque volcanoes, Momotombo is located on the southern tip of the Maribios Range. Its symmetrical cone rises to an elevation of 1 300 meters and it towers over the shores of Lake Managua. The volcano is still smoking and is listed as being active, but it has not seen an eruption since 1905. Besides long (2 days), beautiful hikes it features a geothermal plant at its base.

Nicaragua - beauty of Chinandega

Far up on the most north-western part of Nicaragua you will find the very attractive department of Chinandega. Peppered with interesting attractions and beautiful sights, you can be sure that Chinandega will prove to be a most delightful holiday destination with no shortage of things to see and do. Perhaps this is why it is fast becoming one of Nicaragua's most popular tourist destinations.

What is it about Chinandega that makes it so popular? Perhaps it's the beautiful forests and beaches. It could also be the magnificent volcanoes. Or it could even be the fact that Chinandega is one of the main producers of the high quality Flor de Caña rum. It could even be the sites of historical interest that are just waiting to be explored further. Whatever it is, it drives thousands of visitors to this small part of the world every year and both locals and foreigners enjoy their time here.

The beaches of Jiquilillo and Corinto, as well as the inlet of Paso Caballo, are generally the most popular attractions in Chinandega. Every year people flock to them to enjoy the fine sand and sun as well as the beautiful waters of the ocean. Some venture a bit further inland to the four volcanoes that can be found here. The dormant Cosiqüina Volcano has been declared a Natural Reserve and is located in the northern part of the department. The volcano has well forested slopes - both inside and outside the crater - and a lagoon in the crater. From its towering height of 859m above sea level, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Gulf of Fonseca and, if the weather is good, you can also see both Honduras and El Salvador – now that is a sight worth seeing! Southwards you will find El Chonco, El Apante and San Cristóbal, which is the biggest active volcano in the country. There is also the Natural Reserve Padre Ramos, which is great learning more about watery ecosystems since there are plenty of these to be found in its creeks and mangrove swamps.

If you enjoy a little history while on vacation, the city of El Realejo will prove fascinating. The city is quite old and was used as an important sea port during colonial times – even seeing the likes of several English pirates in times gone by. However, if that sort of thing bores you, you can be sure that activities such as hiking volcanoes and wetlands or taking a boat ride off the Gulf of Fonseca will prove more entertaining. Chinandega has a wealth of activities and attractions just waiting to be discovered.

Lviv

Lviv (Lvov, Lwow, Loewenburg, Lemberg, Leopolis) - is the city in western Ukraine. Its population is approximately 800.000. It was founded in the middle of the 13th century by Prince Danylo Galytskiy, and named after his son Leo ("Lion") Leopolis.
In different periods of its existence Lviv was a part of Poland, Austro-Hungarian Empire, Russian empire and USSR. Since 1991 it is a part of the independent Ukraine.
There is a great number of places having historical, architectural and religious importance (some of them belong to the 13th century), there are more than 30 museums of history, ethnography, arms and art galleries. Lviv has always been a significant educational center of Eastern Europe - Ivan Franko National University, Lvivska Politekhnika University and other higher educational establishments are located there.
In 1998 the historical center of Lviv was included into the "List of World Cultural and Natural Heritage of UNESCO". We can name just a few places of historical importance: Rynok ("Market") square of Renaissance style (the 16-18th century); Armenian Cathedral (the 14th century); The Latin Cathedral (the 15th century); The Boim's Chapel (the 17th century); Renaissance ensemble of the Church of the Assumption (the 16th century); The Church of Body of Christ of the Dominican Order (the 18th century); St. George Cathedral (the 19th century); Lviv Opera House (the 19th century); Stryj park (founded in 1887). A lot of ancient fortification and religious buildings are situated around Lviv - Olesko castle, Pidgirtsi castle. Not far from Lviv there are balneology centers in Truskavets, Morshyn and Skhidnytsia, ski-centers in Slavsko and Tysovets

Krakow

Krakow is a city wrapped in legend, where time flows differently, and where every moment becomes a moment of history.

For centuries, Krakow was the capital of Poland, the seat of kings, drawing great scholars and artists from the whole world. It is their talents and imagination we must thank for the city's rich legacy of unique historical relics, which reflect the most important trends in European culture.

The renaissance Royal Castle at Wawel, the gothic St Mary's Basilica, the historical trade pavilions of the Cloth Hall, the former separate Jewish city of Kazimierz, and even the Nowa Huta district, absorbed by Krakow together with its socialist-realist, industrial architecture, are all places which make a visit to Krakow extremely worthwhile.

Although the city no longer plays such an important administrative role, for many people, thanks to its rich history, Krakow nevertheless represents a synthesis of all things Polish, connecting tradition with modernity.

In the special atmosphere of the beautiful and mysterious streets of the Old Town and Kazimierz you will find everything you need to allow you to escape from everyday life.

Galleries full of exhibitions, cafes, pubs and restaurants: all of this is an integral part of any visit to Krakow.

Crooked Lake Resort

Crooked Lake Resort is for the family who loves the beauty of the spruce - pines - cedars - birch - clear lakes - hiking - fishing - hunting - winter activities - "The quietness of the Northwoods", at it's finest - well enough - "To use an outdoor Toilet" - "Carry water from a pump to your cabin" - "Sit by a wood burning heater, and listen to the whisper of the pines".
We invite you to spend some time in this fabulous area. One of the few places left in the world where you can get away from it all. One of the few places left where nature (not man) is still the dominate factor. One of the few places which still possesses beautiful scenery, breathtakingly beautiful lakes, clear and unpolluted, one of the few areas where fishing is still supreme. Still an area where you can use fishing motors - enjoy your snowmobiles, all seasons activities - with no restrictions - and still enjoy the same beauty as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA), which is just 12 miles away.
May and June are great for walleye fishing. July is the month for the walleye and smallmouth bass. August the smallmouth bass are still eager to bite, and the berry picking is at its best. September and October the leaves are turning into a blaze of color - yellow birch - red and orange maple, mountain ash, heavy with clusters of scarlet red berries - "Watch autumn unfold in this nature's paradise." This is the time for camera or gun. Grouse and ducks are found in the area, also deer - moose - and black bear. Late November our area puts on its white winter coat so pack up your cross-country skis - snowshoes - or snowmobiles and come enjoy the hundreds of miles of trails.
We offer the best in northern, walleye, smallmouth bass and trout fishing. Lakes and streams abound in the Crooked Lake Resort area. Your biggest decision will be - "Where do we fish today!"
Come share the relaxing atmosphere of the lodge built of old timbers from a railroad trestle. This trestle crossed Hoist Creek and was used in the logging era over 80 years ago.
Sit at the lumberjack bar, have your favorite cocktail and see the original timber bell. This was used at the Crooked Lake Resort tavern during the logging days. When someone would ring the bell, anyone hearing it was entitled to a drink - compliments of the "bell ringer". Hanging over the back bar, see the huge original bear trap - also used during that era
Upstairs in the loft room, you'll find a romantic setting with fireplace and dining area.
The hearty northwoods menu offers satisfaction to the hungriest of appetites. From the famous Trestle Burgers to juicy steaks, you'll find it all. Through winter, the Trestle Inn crew welcomes our snowmobiler friends to the hub of the North Shore and the Tomahawk trail system. We usually have snow from Thanksgiving through all of March. Come mid November - we all THINK SNOW! You can also rent snowmobiles and accessories from our friends at Beaver Bay Sport Shop