The Skills A Great Tour Guide Should Have

BY  Ankita Nov 13, 2023

If you’re here, then it’s settled, you’re a travel enthusiast. But what about Travel to Africa? Are you eager to explore the world’s richest continent, or are you looking to return for more unforgettable experiences? Here’s a rundown of 20 of the best places to travel in Africa in 2024, based on data from the web— with their history and peculiarity, and wonderful activities that people generally do there. These are just a few of Africa’s top tourist locations, for your bucket list! 1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania Location: Arusha Region, Tanzania The Serengeti National Park is one of the most well-known and iconic wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It is the most coveted of Tanzania’s top National Parks. It is home to the annual Great Migration, one of the largest natural events on Earth, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle travel across the Serengeti plains in search of new grazing land. Unique and incredible things to do here: Go on a safari to see the Serengeti's incredible wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and rhinos. Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest caldera, which is home to a variety of wildlife. They include black rhinos, lions, and elephants. Take a ride on a hot air balloon over the Serengeti plains for a bird’s-eye view of the Great Migration. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 500,000 people visit the Serengeti National Park each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Tanzania. The Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 2. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe Location: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia and Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world by the volume of water flowing over it. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. Unique and incredible things to do here: Take a helicopter or microlight flight over Victoria Falls for a stunning aerial view. Go white water rafting or kayaking on the Zambezi River below Victoria Falls. Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and watch the sunset over Victoria Falls. White water rafting Kayaking Nature walks Interesting Facts & Figures Over 1 million people visit Victoria Falls each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 3. Cape Town, South Africa Location: Western Cape, South Africa Cape Town is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Africa. Tourists get the unique opportunity to explore iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, Robben Island, and Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. It is also an amazing idea for people with a business mind. Yes! You can also launch a business in Cape Town with some key considerations. Unique and incredible things to do: Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views of Cape Town and its surroundings. Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, and learn about the history of South Africa's fight for democracy. Take a walk along Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a popular tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Real tourist statistics: Over 4 million people visit Cape Town each year. It is the second most popular tourist destination in South Africa, after Kruger National Park. Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. 4. Pyramids Of Giza, Egypt Location: Giza, near Cairo, Egypt History: Built over 4,500 years ago, the pyramids are a testament to ancient Egyptian civilization. The Great Pyramid is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  In 2021, Giza welcomed over 14 million tourists (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities). Must-Visit: Explore the Sphinx and Valley Temple. Take a camel ride around the pyramids. Kruger National Park, South Africa Location: Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, South Africa. Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most popular game reserves in Africa. Established in 1898, it is one of Africa's oldest and largest game reserves. For Safari enthusiasts, the Kruger National Park is also one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. Over 2 million people visit Kruger National Park each year. You’ll meet an incredibly wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Unique and incredible things to do here: Go on a safari to see Kruger’s incredible wildlife. Visit the Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world. Take a  ride on the hot air balloon over the Kruger National Park and look at the stunning and breathtaking landscape from the top. 6. Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania Location: Off the coast of Tanzania The Zanzibar Archipelago is a group of islands off the coast of Tanzania. Known for its spice trade, Zanzibar has a rich blend of African, Arab, and European influences. Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture. If you’re a scuba diver looking for greater experiences, by all means, visit Zanzibar. Unique and incredible things to do here: Go Scuba diving in Zanzibar and her sister Islands like the Pemba Island. The region happens to be one of the most popular scuba diving destinations in Africa. Relax on Zanzibar's beautiful beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Visit Stone Town, the historic center of Zanzibar City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a spice tour around Zanzibar’s colossal spice farms. Learn about some of the world’s most used spices and take special cooking lessons directly on the farms to discover the best of East African food. Interesting Facts & Figures about Zanzibar It is the second most popular tourist destination in Tanzania, after the Serengeti National Park. Zanzibar is one of the most popular beach destinations in Africa. Over 500,000 people visit Zanzibar each year. 7. Chobe National Park, Botswana Location: Chobe District, Botswana Chobe National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa and is known for its large elephant population. It is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including lions, hippos, crocodiles, and antelope. Unique and incredible things to do: Take a boat cruise on the Chobe River and see elephants swimming and bathing. Go on a game drive and see Chobe's incredible wildlife up close. Visit the Savuti Marsh, a unique ecosystem that hosts a lot of wildlife. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 490,000 people visit Chobe National Park each year. It is the second most popular tourist destination in Botswana, after the Okavango Delta. Chobe National Park is a popular safari destination for tourists from all over the world. 8. Okavango Delta, Botswana Location: Okavango Delta, Botswana The Okavango Delta is a unique wetland ecosystem in Botswana. It is fed by the Okavango River, which flows from Angola into the Kalahari Desert. The Okavango Delta is a piece of hot cake, famous for its variegated wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and antelope. Unique and incredible things to do here: Take a mokoro boat ride through the Okavango Delta and see wildlife up close. Visit the Moremi Game Reserve, a protected area within the Okavango Delta. Go on a helicopter safari and see the Okavango Delta from above. Nature walks Go camping on the 60 or so camps and lodges in the Okavango Delta. Ensure you pick the right tour guide for camping. Here are skills to look for in your tour guide. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 100,000 people visit the Okavango Delta each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Botswana. The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Africa. 9. Tsingy De Bemaraha National Park, Madagascar Location: Menabe Region, Madagascar People say Madagascar is the 8th continent, not for its Geographic isolation from Africa, but for its uniqueness– being home to some of the rarest animal species in the world. If you’re curious about wildlife in the universe, by all means, visit Madagascar. The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone karst formations. The stingy are sharp limestone pinnacles that can reach up to 40 meters in height. The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a territory for a multitude of wildlife, including lemurs, chameleons, and birds. Must-do tourist activities here: Hike through the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park and see the incredible limestone karst formations up close. Visit the Tsingy de Bemaraha Special Reserve, a protected area within the national park. Go on a boat cruise on the Tsiribihina River and see wildlife from the water. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 87,000 tourists visit Madagascar and the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Madagascar. 10. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania Location: Ngorongoro District, Tanzania The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the world's largest intact caldera. The crater is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Unique and incredible things to do: Go on a game drive through the Ngorongoro Crater and see wildlife up close. Visit the Olduvai Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where early human fossils have been found. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Ngorongoro Crater for a top view of the entire wildlife. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 600,00 people visit the Ngorongoro Crater each year. It is a popular tourist destination for tourists from all over the world. There goes your top 10 must-visit places in Africa this coming 2024! Add these to your bucket list. Here are some more amazing places to visit in Africa in 2024, with relevant images: 11. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. It is a heaven for lovers of wild beasts and the Great Migration, an endless, majestic voyage of wild beasts —which cuts across Tanzania and Kenya. On your safari tours, you’ll come close to incredible animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and leopards. The annual wildebeest migration takes place between July and October. Must-do tourist activities here in Kenya: Go on a game drive through the Masai Mara National Reserve and see wildlife up close. Visit the Mara Triangle, a protected area within the national reserve. Go on a ride on a hot air balloon over the Masai Mara National Reserve for a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife. 12. Lake Malawi National Park, Malawi Lake Malawi is the third-largest lake in Africa and one of the deepest lakes in the world. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and UNESCO describes the National Park as an area decked with nature’s beauty and bounty and also with the rugged landscapes around it. It indeed forms a  contrast with the clear waters of the lake. Lake Malawi is a popular swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing destination. Speaking of fishing, the area hosts hundreds of varieties of cichlid fish. Not only this, nearly all the fishes are endemic to that of the  Lake Malawi. Remember to practice sustainable fishing! Must-do Tourist Activities on Lake Malawi National Park: Visit the Likoma Island, a beautiful island in Lake Malawi. Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters of Lake Malawi and see a variety of marine life. Take a boat trip on Lake Malawi and enjoy the stunning scenery. 13. Rainbow Mountains, Morocco The Rainbow Mountains are a unique geological formation in Morocco. The mountains are made up of a variety of colorful rocks, which give them their name. The Rainbow Mountains are a popular tourist destination for photographers and hikers. Must-do tourist activities here: Hike through the Rainbow Mountains and see the incredible colors of the rocks up close. Take a photo of the Rainbow Mountains at sunset or sunrise to capture their magical colors. Visit the nearby Berber villages and learn about the local culture. 14. Dogon Country, Mali The Dogon Country is a region in Mali that is known for its unique culture and architecture. People here are known for their cliffside villages and their traditional masks. The Dogon Country is a popular tourist destination for people interested in learning about African culture. Incredible things to do here: Visit the cliffside villages of the Dogon people and see their unique architecture. Learn about the Dogon people's culture and traditions. See the Dogon people's traditional masks. If you’re planning for International Travel in 2024, here are 9 great tips for a more authentic travel experience. 15. Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia The Simien Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning scenery and its population of gelada baboons. The Simien Mountains are also home to a variety of other wildlife, including mountain nyala, Walia ibex, and Ethiopian wolves. Unique and incredible things to do: Hike through the Simien Mountains and see the incredible scenery, including the Ras Dashen mountain, the highest peak in Ethiopia. Visit the gelada baboon population and see these fascinating creatures up close. Take a photo of the Simien Mountains at sunset or sunrise to capture their magical beauty. 16. Dahab, Egypt Location: Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. Originally a Bedouin fishing village, now a popular diving destination. Dahab attracted over 1 million visitors in 2021 (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities). Dahab is peculiar for The Blue Hole, a renowned diving site that attracts thousands of scuba divers around the world. Things you just can’t miss: Dive or snorkel in the Blue Hole. Explore the Desert of Sinai on a camel safari. 17. Etosha National Park, Namibia Etosha National Park is a large national park in Namibia, reputed for its salt pan, which is one of the largest in the world. The park has now become the top tourist attraction of Namibia with more than 140 000 visitors recorded annually. Beyond the salt pan, Tourists visit Etosha National Park to experience a diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes. Unique and incredible things to do: Visit the Etosha salt pan and see the animals that come to drink from the waterholes. Go on a game drive through the Etosha National Park and see wildlife up close. Visit the Okaukuejo waterhole and see the animals that come to drink at night. 18. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa Addo Elephant National Park is one of South Africa’s proud National Parks,  reputed for hosting arguably the largest population of elephants in the world. If you’re a fan of these giant creatures, you should be visiting South Africa’s Addo Elephant National Park in 2024. About 120,000 people check out this park every year. The park is also home to a variety of other impressive wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and buffalo. Things you can’t miss here: Go on a game drive through the Addo Elephant National Park and see elephants up close. Visit the Shamwari Game Reserve, a private game reserve within the Addo Elephant National Park. Take a helicopter safari over the Addo Elephant National Park and see the wildlife from above. 19. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda Location: Southwestern Uganda, at the junction of the plain and mountain forests. Just realized we haven’t talked about Gorillas so far. Thankfully, there’s the Bwindi National Park, which is popular for the 400 Bwindi Gorillas and Mountain Gorillas. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is known for its exceptional biodiversity, with more than 160 species of trees and over 100 species of ferns 1. It is also home to many types of birds and butterflies. Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Stuff you can’t miss here: Go on a gorilla trekking tour and see mountain gorillas up close. Visit the Mubwindi Swamp, a unique ecosystem within the national park. Take a hike through the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and enjoy the stunning scenery. 20. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania Location: Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania We’re ending the list with a place that’s known as Africa’s roof – The Kilimanjaro. A dormant volcano, Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak, a place that attracts around 50,000 climbers/hikers each year. As you hike the largest free-standing mountain in the world (20,000 ft), you’ll experience multiple climatic zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic ice cap. Visiting Kilimanjaro is different from hiking other mountains in the world, such as the Seven Magic Mountains in Vegas, because almost all the variants of the ecological system are traced on the mountain. Not only this, they are also traced to the rain forest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, cultivable lands, and an arctic summit. Did you know? Nearly every climber who has summitted Uhuru Peak has recorded his or her thoughts about the accomplishment in a book stored in a wooden box at the top. Activities you can’t miss here: Trek to the summit for a sunrise view. Explore the diverse flora and fauna along the trails. Need help planning your trip to Africa? Check out our Top planning tips for your next trip abroad. Read Also: Maldives’ Luminescent Secret: The Mesmerizing Sea Of Stars! The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii: Hiking Adventure’s Hidden Gem Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge!

BY  Sibashree Nov 17, 2025

Spotting the burrows of the black petrels at Glenfern Sanctuary and the hillside was like magic! The burrows had eggs in a cream shade with tan freckles. They almost looked like the eggs of a hen, though slightly larger. Also, some chicks were chirping their hearts out inside the burrows. They looked like those squishy dog toys. Now, spotting birds is one of the most fulfilling activities when you are camping on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Furthermore, if days were about hiking and spotting the birds, the nights were about indulging in the surreal beauty of the celestial bodies at this designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. Moreover, camping in Great Barrier Island is a true off-grid and remote experience. No Streetlight!  No Public Rubbish Bins!  And, No Powered Camping Sites!  It’s just you, the camping tent, and the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf. Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Great Barrier Island camping tips. Here, you will learn about the must-book DOC sites, the non-negotiable biosecurity rules, and everything else you need to plan your adventure.  Camping In Aotea, Great Barrier Island: Setting The Right Mindset For Biosecurity And Sustainability View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) Aotea isn't a place that just hands you its beauty. It's a place that makes you earn it. It's a true adventure that rewards you for being self-sufficient.  It's the thrill of waking up to the raucous call of a Kākā parrot, not an alarm clock. It's the magic of watching the Milky Way rise over the dunes at Medlands Beach, and the peace of having a rugged, white-sand cove all to yourself.  Also, it is one of the rare islands that serve as sanctuaries, and with 60% of its area protected by the Department of Conservation, Great Barrier Island demands the utmost care for biosecurity and the adoption of sustainable practices. So, before you want to explore the best camping spots on Great Barrier Island New Zealand, you have to build your mindset. This is your invitation to join a small community of travellers who value wild, authentic, and responsible adventure.  1. Offering The True Off-Grid Experience  The campsites of the Great Barrier Island are exactly what the island is. They are not powered, and they have basic amenities. Furthermore, open fire is not allowed in these campsites. So, you will have to bring fuel-powered or gas cookers. Furthemore, the Department of Conservation camping sites have only a specific number of tents. So, you need to make the booking well in advance. Contact the Department of Conservation (DoC) at 0800 275 362. 2. The Golden Rule: "Pack In, Pack Out”  Zero waste and recycling are important for the sustainability and environmentally friendly practices of the Great Barrier Island. However, the island does not have public rubbish bins. So, whatever you carry to the island, you will have to take it back. You must use the official Orange Council bags with stickers for trash disposal. 3. Biosecurity Is Most Important  Protecting the Kauri trees from the infamous “Kauri Dieback disease” and the island's endemic animals requires a high level of biosecurity. So, when you leave for the Great Barrier Island from Auckland, you will have to check for ants and rats. Also, when you leave Great Barrier Island, check the tents and packs for skinks. In addition, the Phytophthora Agathidicida attack on the kauri trees has been a serious concern. Stopping the soil movement is crucial to stopping the attack of this dieback disease. Soil movement can happen through pigs, footwear, and vehicles. Therefore, the Department of Conservation (DoC) cleaning stations play an important role in cleaning and removing soil from your gear and footwear before entering a kauri forest on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. In addition, you have to stick to the marked routes when hiking through the best Great Barrier Island hiking trails. 4. How To Book The Camping Sites: DOC Vs. Private  If you are camping in any of the DoC sites, you have to make the booking online well in advance. Private camping sites can be booked directly. Here is the step-by-step guide for booking a DoC Campsite on the Great Barrier Island. First, visit the Department of Conservation site for the particular campsite. For example, let’s talk about the Akapoua Bay Campsite. On the dedicated Akapoua Bay Campsite page, you will get to know about the campsite and the fees. The fees for the Akapoua Bay Campsite are $18 per night for adults, $9 per night for children ages 5 to 17, and $0 per night for infants ages 0 to 4. In addition, you can book a campsite pass from the Department of Conservation of New Zealand. It will give you access to all the bookable and non-bookable campsites in the country. If you need any assistance in booking the campsite pass, you can avail of that at a service tax of $10. For adults, the camping pass will cost $295.00 (365 nights), and for children between 5 and 17 years, the pass will cost $147.50. Moreover, for children below 5 years, the camping pass is free. If you need any assistance regarding the booking of the 1-year campsite pass or a pass for any specific site, you can contact Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre at +64 3 546 9339 or email them at nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz. The Kauaeranga Visitor Centre (+64 7 867 9080/kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz) also offers the same assistance. What Are The Best Camping Spots On Great Barrier Island New Zealand?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) Digital detox has been a trending thing these days, and if you want to truly experience that and shut all the noise in your head, the camping spots on the Great Barrier Island will be the best for you. Further, the real magic of camping on Aotea starts after sunset. You haven't lived until you've watched the Milky Way rise over your tent from the dunes at Medlands. However, along with the Medlands Beach, there are 5 other DoC campsites in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are the details. 1. Akapoua Bay Campsite  The sheltered waters of Port FitzRoy have a beautiful camping ground, which is like a gateway to the many walking tracks of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. From waking up with a 60-second dash of a cold shower to exploring the paths graced by the pohutukawa trees, the Akapoua Bay Campsite will offer you a peaceful and off-the-grid experience. The maximum number of campers on this site can be 75. Moreover, the camp is hosted from Christmas to the end of January. 2. Harataonga Campsite  This campground is very close to Harataonga Beach. So, it is an ideal camping site for swimmers and snorkeling enthusiasts. It can accommodate 120 campers, and this campsite is surrounded by bush and farmland. and camping takes place between Christmas and mid-February. Harataonga is for the romantic escape. 3. Awana Beach Campsite  The Awana Beach Campsite is a surfer’s dream. It has beautiful dunes and farmlands around. It can accommodate 120 campers, and the campground remains open from Christmas to the end of January. The only problem with this camping site is mosquitoes. So, you have to carry mosquito repellents. 4. Medlands Beach Campsite  The sound of the waves at Medlands. This is the music you will listen to when you go to sleep or wake up at the Medlands Beach Campsite. Medlands is like an all-rounder. It is ideal for families and surfers alike. The campsite remains open from Christmas to mid-February, and it can accommodate 120 campers. 5. The Green Campsite  You can boat in or walk in the Green Campsite, which remains open from 1st December to the end of February. With a capacity of accommodating only 30 campers, this campsite has a rich history associated with whaling, kauri logging, and timber milling. The waters of the Whangaparapara Harbour make it an idyllic retreat, and it is also the base of the Aotea Track. 6. Whangapoua Campsite  The Whangapoua Campsite is a surfer’s paradise, and it is located on the edge of the Whangapoua estuary. It is also a favorite camping site for fishing. With an accommodation capacity of 150 people, this campsite remains open from Christmas to the end of February. However, the biggest highlight of this camping site is the views of Rakitu Island and Mount Hirakimata. A Comparison Summary Table Of The DoC Camping Sites On The Great Barrier Island, New Zealand  DoC Campsite Access Landscape Facilities Activities Dog Access Fees Akapoua Bay Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Boating, Fishing, Walking, and Tramping No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Harataonga Beach Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Awana Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Kayaking and Canoeing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Medlands Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Fishing, Surfing, Swimming No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free The Green Campsite Boat, Foot Coastal Cooking Shelter, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenHiking, Boating No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Whangapoua campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenFishing, Surfing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free  Insider Tips For Camping At DoC Campsites On The Great Barrier Island If you are camping in a caravan or campervan, remember that the gravel roads leading to the camping sites, especially the Harataonga Campsite, are steep and winding. Also, the sites are off-the-grid. Furthermore, the campervans are not usually allowed on the beaches. The Best Private & Unique Camping Options On The Great Barrier Island View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) 1. Great Barrier Island Campground  The Great Barrier Island Campground, spanning over an area of 12 square acres, is an ideal camping ground for access to different beach activities. The camping site is located at a distance of just 200 meters from the beach. The camping fee at the Great Barrier Island Campground is $10 per person per night. You can contact them at 021 298 8905 for booking. 2. Mickeys Place  The O'Shea Family farm in Awana houses the Mickey's Place camping ground. It is a family-friendly camping site with the following facilities. A Communal Cooking Area  Flush Toilets  Showers  Patrick, Sean, and Mickey are the hosts of this campsite, and you can contact them at 09 4290 140. 3. Stray Possum  Stary Possum in Tryphena is an ideal camping site for backpackers. If you are camping here, you will have access to the kitchen, toilets, and showers of the adjacent Stray Possum Lodge. This camping site has 14 tents, and you can call 09 4290 109 for booking details. 21 Essential Great Barrier Island Camping Tips  I promised you tips, and here they are. Do not go to Great Barrier Island without reading this checklist.  • Packing And Food  1. Bringing a Gas Cooker  Open fires are banned in the Camping sites of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to bring a gas burner for preparing your food. 2. Packing Your Food  Groceries are not available everywhere, and they are even very expensive. So, it is better to collect and pack the groceries you will need before leaving Auckland. 3. Bringing a Good Chilly Bin  You will need this insulated chest for storing warm and cold food items. 4. Bringing a Red-Light Torch  The island is a Dark Sky Sanctuary. A red torch lets you stargaze without ruining your night vision.  5. Bringing Cash  EFTPOS (debit) is unreliable, and many camping sites only accept cash. 6. Packing Warm Clothes  The weather can suddenly become cold, even on summer days. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.  7. Carrying Mosquito and Insect Repellent  Sandflies and mosquitoes are notorious on Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry an insect repellent.  • On-Site & Facilities  8. Cold Showers  Most shower stations on the Great Barrier Island are cold water shower stations. This is great as the dash of cold water in the morning, literally works as the eye opener. 9. Long-Drop Toilets  The long-drop toilets are basic and waterless. Using these pit toilets can be challenging for some campers. 10. Drinking Water  The tap water available at these sites is not ideal for drinking unless it is purified or boiled. 11. Pet-Friendly  The DoC camping grounds are not accessible to dogs. This is crucial for the protection of wildlife, the safety of the pets, and soil movement, causing the resurrection of pets and parasites affecting the local flora and fauna. 12. Booking  The slots for camping sites such as Medlands, Akapoua get sold more than 6 months in advance for the Christmas and New Year periods. So, it is indeed a year-long planning. 13. Alcohol Rules  The consumption of alcohol can be banned in various camping sites, especially during the peak seasons. So, check with the camping site authority. • Transport & Logistics  14. Having a Vehicle  Having a vehicle is a must for moving around the rugged and large Great Barrier Island. You cannot walk between the sites.  15. Renting a 4WD (or 4WD-Capable)  The roads to various campsites are challenging. The road to Harataonga, especially, is very difficult. So, you will have to rent a 4WD-capable vehicle. 16. The Motorhome/Campervan Reality  The gravel roads are narrow, steep, and winding, and if you are planning to camp in a large RV, you will definitely struggle. 17. The Dump Station Nightmare  There is only one dump station in Claris, and it is only for black water or toilet waste. You will have to carry your grey water or sink with you. 18. Freedom Camping  Freedom camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a fascinating idea. However, the reality is quite different. It is heavily restricted, and sticking to the DoC sites is the best option.  • Safety & Etiquette  19. Using a Paper Map  Mobile network and GPS will not function in various parts of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry a paper map. 20. Tell Someone Your Plans  If you are hiking on the Great Barrier Island, you have to keep someone informed. The wilderness and remote locations of the hiking trails can throw many challenges, despite having an easy to moderately difficult level.  21. Being a Good Neighbour  You must respect the quiet, off-grid, and nature-first vibe of the Great Barrier Island. So, you have to keep the noise level down. How To Reach The Aotea Great Barrier Island With Your Camping Gear? For campers, especially the ones with campervans, traveling by the ferry from SeaLink is the best option. It is the only mode of transportation in which passengers and cars are both transported. It is a 4.5-hour picturesque journey from Auckland. Your Great Barrier Island Camping Adventure Is Calling Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the right mix of adventure, soaking in nature, and cherishing the off-the-grid living of the island. However, it’s not going to be easy with the amenities at the campsites being basic, and even the gravel roads posing challenges for the big RVs and campervans. Also, you will have to take care of biosecurity and all the sustainability guidelines to ensure that the island, a sanctuary of wildlife, does not get impacted negatively. Conservation as a pristine sanctuary is the reason why camping in the Great Barrier Island allowed us to see a billion more stars and birds than I have ever seen in my life.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 6, 2021

When we talk of exploring Delhi or looking for places to visit near Delhi, we find the same regular answers. Delhi, being the capital of India, has received enough love over the years; hence, we call Delhites “Dilwala.” Dilwala means someone who has a big heart.  Exploring Delhi includes the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Taj Mahal Lodhi Gardens, etc. But is that enough to see in Delhi? Nothing beats the beauty of the off-beat places in Delhi.  Here, we will talk about the lesser-known places in Delhi that are worth noting. Unexplored Places To Visit Near Delhi Here we will list the not too famous places in Delhi that you will definitely love, You must visit them at least once in your life. Many people who visited Delhi are also unaware of these places. Do not miss this opportunity. Visit the places near that have not been explored ever before are here. Here are the places to visit near Delhi,  Delhi is one of the world’s top travel destinations and is frequently a stopover point for people looking to visit the wonders of Rajasthan and the famous Taj Mahal in Agra. However, if you want to just be in the capital city of India, and undertake Delhi tours, you can take help from the below-mentioned unexplored places. From great food to inspiring culture, Delhi has something to offer to every traveler.  1. Hauz Khas Village Exact Location – Hauz Khas Village, South DelhiNearest Metro – Hauz Khas This is an amazingly beautifully crafted medieval age city of the new age party culture. The name of this place is Hauz Khas Village, but without mention, this place is surprising. This place has a unique combination of tradition and trends. Leaving aside the sculptural beauty this place also has some new and trendy pubs, clubs, and cafes. The youth of Delhi enjoys this place day and night.  Many might not be aware that the place where Hauz Khas Village has been built was a place named Siri in the past. Since this place is situated in south Delhi, it faces a lot of crowds there. This tourist destination is securing its first place in the list of the best tourist places near Delhi. 2. Majnu ka Tila Exact Location – GT Road Nearest Metro – Vidhan Sabha metro station is near the Majnu Ka Tilla. This is the Tibetan colony which is also known as “the little Tibet”. This place gives shelter to 1000s of Tibetan refugees who had followed their religious leader Dalai lama. Now the entire area is for the Tibetan people who have made up their lifestyle comfortably in Majnu ka Tilla.  This place is located in North Delhi and represents the vivid Tibetan culture and tradition with clothes, accessories, and food of Tibet. Anyway, you could enjoy food in Delhi, but the food that the menu ka Tilla has is incomparable. The places near Delhi all are a little bit different, impression-wise. Anyway, you could enjoy food in Delhi, but the food that the Majnu ka Tilla has is incomparable. The places near Delhi are all a little bit different, impression-wise. 3. Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli Exact Location – New Delhi, Qasim Jan Street, Shahajanabad. Nearest Metro – Chawri Bazar Metro is the Nearest Metro station. This is the Haveli or the palace made in the memory of the world-recognized Urdu poet, Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan who is also known as Mirza Ghalib. He is said to have produced the most famous of his creations when he was in this home. Hence this place stands of importance to everyone.  This place is in Chandni Chowk which is the heart of the city, and it has been transformed into a museum now because it is maintained by the Government. Chadinchwak is a popular marketplace. Many tourists are visiting Chandni Chowk as a popular marketplace. But do you ever searching the “places to visit near me” when you are already in the Chadnichwak market? Try these tricks and let us know what the different types of tourist destinations you are getting. 4. Best Places To Visit Near Delhi – Sanjayvan Exact Location – Vasant Kunj, New DelhiNearest Metro – The nearest metro stations are the Chhattarpur metro station and the Qutub Minar metro station.  No one would have ever thought that there could be a forest in the heart of the city? But there is, the Sanjayvan is right in the middle of South Delhi. It is very close to the Qutub Minar there. It is a lush green forest, and this green forest spreads over 780km straight from all directions. This is one of the best-hidden places to visit near Delhi. This Sanvayvan is near or between Mehrauli and Vasant Kunj in the southern part of Delhi.  5. Best Places To Visit Near Delhi – Ghazipur Phool Mandi Exact Location – Ghazipur Village Nearest Metro Station – Anand Bihar ISBT is close to this place. You can either take an auto or walk down. As soon as you enter this place, you will get the fragrance of different kinds of flowers. Different types of flowers are there in this market, right from marigolds, roses, orchids, tulips, carnations, lilies of different types are available here. When you are searching the places to see around Delhi, you are getting the options from the surrounding areas, which are mostly human-made or artificial, but this small village is delivering the beauty of nature. This is an astonishing magical place known for its beautiful collection of flowers in the market. This place has all sorts of flowers at unimaginable low prices. You must take a visit to this place if you are visiting Delhi. This flowery village is one of the best places to visit near Delhi. 6. Neemrana, Rajasthan Neemrana has been recently in the news with the rising air pollution level in the NCR region. So, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) has started in Neemrana, which borders Rajasthan.  Just around 116 kms away from Delhi, is Neemrana in Rajasthan. It is the ultimate destination if you are a history buff.  Once the power seat of Rajput Chauhans was taken over, Neemrana has now become a heritage destination.  Neemrana Fort is the center of attraction here and it was built by the Chauhans. However, unfortunately, the fort became an abandoned place in 1947.  Further, in 1991, there was some revival work to transform the Fort into a heritage hotel.  Also, Neemrana is famous as the zipline site in India. So, you can go for a zipline tour here for some adrenaline rush.  You can even visit the Neemrana Baori here and learn how this underwater conservation project has been crucial in the social and economic evolution of Neemrana.  Moreover, you cannot miss enjoying a camel ride when in Neemrana. It is the best way to understand the traditional way of living in Rajasthan.  7. Nuh, Haryana Just around 2 hours drive from Delhi, Nua is one of the less-explored places to visit near Delhi. Its distance from the New Delhi Airport is around 63 kms.  If you are a history buff and have an interest in Sufism, you must visit the Sheikh Musa Mosque. This mosque has an association with the Chisti Order.  Further, if you love watching birds, you must spend some time at Hari-Ke-Pattan Bird Sanctuary. There is no entry fee to visit the sanctuary and it remains open between 9 AM to 5 PM. The Hari-Ke-Pattan wetland is a manmade wetland spanning across 4100 acres. It is the largest in North India and is home to almost 375 species of birds.  You will find here great crested grebe, Indian Skimmer, Black-Necked Stork, etc. You may even spot jackals and wild boars here.  Moreover, if you are interested in automobiles, you can visit the Heritage Transport Museum in Nuh.  Frequently Asked Questions  Where should I go for a one day trip to delhi? You can visit these following places Murthal Damdama lake  Mathura and Vrindavan Noor Mahal Karnal  The Taj Mahal, Agra Where can couples go for privacy in delhi? Garden to five senses Qutub Minar Lodhi garden Millennium Indraprastha Park Hauz khas Village. What are the lesser known sights in Delhi to visit? Haveli Of Mirza Ghalib  Agrasen ki Baoli Majnu ka Tilla Sanjay Van  Kumhar Colony Where can I sit and study in delhi? Triveni Terrace Cafe Ivvy and Bean  Bent Chair Cafe Tea Trails Cafe Conclusion Delhi is the capital city. The rich history and the perfect combination of modern attire and historical background are making this place a perfect tourist spot. The city’s culture is very devised, and this diversity is making Delhi a different kind of tourist place. When you want to feel the true vibes of Delhi, visit these unexpected surrounding tourist places along with the main city. When you want to feel the true vibes of the city, include the unexplored places to visit near Delhi in your itinerary. Along with the places mentioned, you can also visit Nizamuddin Dargah, Agrasen ki Baoli, and Meharauli Archaeological Park.  Further, Delhi is about exploring the local culture. From enjoying the whiff of spices at the biggest wholesale spice market in Asia (Khari Baoli Road) to taking a stroll around the painted houses in Naughara, you have a lot to do in Delhi. If you liked our post, please comment below, and do not forget to share your experience with us.