Comments from Moira Lipshaw

Accessible Safari in Africa??? - Yes it is possible!

Have you ever thought of gong on safari to Africa but felt that because you are in a wheelchair, have mobility problems, or chronic medical condition felt that it was impossible.
I recently had the privilege of travelling to South Africa as caregiver/support person in order that Miranda could get "up close and personal" with the Big Five and other wildlife. After checking on the internet contact was made with a company called www.Epic-Enabled.com who specialize in offering disability friendly safari tours within South Africa and other African destinations.

We travelled Wellington Sydney Johannesburg - which actually was relatively easy without too many long delays in airport lounges, arriving in Johannesburg mid afternoon.

After one night in Johannesburg we journeyed along with our fellow travelers who were from the United Kingdom and the United States - one traveling independently (manual wheelchair) and a married couple - the gentleman requiring the use of a large electric wheelchair. We were a small group - the van can accommodate up to about seven wheelchairs and helpers - fifteen in total.

"Impi" - a modified truck with hydraulic lift, spaces for wheelchairs, and high enough so that everyone traveling had excellent views of scenery and wildlife.

Alfie, the owner/tour guide/driver, also carries special equipment on board such as shower commode chairs, bath seats, etc. He has excellent knowledge of the support services on the way so there is no anxiety about toilet stops, and accessibility etc. He is also an accomplished cook, and has an assistant to help with any individual requirements and chores.

Accommodation was all wheelchair accessible, many of the 'cabins' having en suite facilities. Within Kruger some of the accommodation is in permanent tents, about eighteen inches off the ground however all were fitted with ramps, the shared facilities have wheelchair accessible showers and toilets - all immaculately clean, and fresh soap and towels were provided everywhere on a daily basis.

Over the next eight days we were treated to some amazing sights and experiences - Kruger national Park, a private game reserve - Tshukudu, and a cultural village in Shangaan.

We woke to the sounds of francolin birds, had coffee/tea and 'oumas' (rusks) and were loaded on to the truck to go on the early morning game drive. At Tshukudu the game drive allowed us to not just to see, but get up close to elephant, rhino, hippopotamus, kudu, vervet monkeys, lion, leopard, giraffe. Where else can you pat a cheetah - Savannah - orphaned when young, but rehabilitated in to the wild - catching her own prey (had 3 baby cubs in early May 2009), walk with lion, kiss a hippo, stroke a caracal - these opportunities are rare - to touch animals that are living and hunting in their natural environment.

It is difficult to describe the feeling it brings - for someone who had only dreamed of going to Africa, let alone get to sit next to and stroke a purring cheetah - smiles just got bigger and bigger.

On the way to Kruger we had the opportunity of visiting, seeing and hearing about a different culture - life in a traditional Shangaan village. It was surprising to discover that many of the traditions had similarities to Maori - instantly evident when we were welcomed in to the village by speeches and song.

Kruger National Park is enormous and we travelled from Orpen gate to Crocodile Bridge. Within Kruger is a variety of scenery, and the opportunity to see bird and animal life endless. Two of our party were avid "twitchers" and managed to see over a 100 different species, many very specific to Africa, so it is not just a tour for animal lovers.

There are times and areas where animal life and vegetation is quite sparse and others where there is an over abundance - fascinating to sit at a water hole and watch animals interact - first zebra, and wildebeest together drinking, but always watchful of a pride of lions resting in the shade of a marula tree. Suddenly they become skittish and move away when an huge herd of buffalo come over the ridge to drink at the water hole. The leaders of the herd were very large, and they were in such large numbers that they were able to force the pride of lions with their cubs to move away. Whilst all this was going on a smaller group of buffalo were drinking quietly at the other side of the water hole - with their oxpecker companions happily fossicking for insects/ticks on their back and necks. It's the kind of thing that you may have seen on television programmes and do not expect to see in reality - when you do its just "amazing". I heard that word so many times from my companions, this is just one example of what can be seen. All the hard work and effort in getting the funds together, and the long air flights were absolutely worth it!

My companion and I continued on to Cape Town, also arranged by Epic Enabled, which was a totally different experience but equally enjoyable. We were treated to luxury accommodation with a family atmosphere with Sabine, and Josh at their Guesthouse in Noordhoek. You can contact them on info@epic-enabled.com or visit their website www.epic-enabled.com.

Tips for Travelling

Be organised and prepared though travel as light as possible - with this particular excursion it was so easy. Epic Enabled are a reputable company with many years experience in organising and touring with people with disabilities. They can arrange for specialised equipment to be available for you, as well as extra care if needed. They provided us with very clear guidelines as to what clothing/gear/malaria medication may be required, what to expect on tour, and were also happy to answer any individualised question via internet prior to travelling. They were able to arrange airport transfers, accommodation etc so all we had to do was relax and immerse ourselves in the experience.

Not all companies are as accommodating

The airlines were relatively helpful - accept the offer of assistance, even if you are able to walk - many airports have very long corridors to get to alternative gates or arrival and departure lounges. Airline staff and a wheelchair is far less fatiguing, and also means that you do not have to stand and wait in queues to be processed.

If possible try to see a seating plan of the plane so that you can pre book seats close to the toilets if required - once on the plane it is quite difficult to change. If you require to use the toilet facilities frequently often an aisle seat is less disruptive for your fellow passengers.

If you can afford it - upgrade - economy is very cramped, particularly when it is a long haul flight - 14 hours - Sydney to Johannesburg.

Most airlines will supply you with eye shades, and ear plugs on request - these can be helpful - even if you do not manage to get any sleep - they will cut out distractions and allow you some rest.
Check out the temps for the time that you are travelling.

Article by Moira Lipshaw, New Zealand
September 2008

Travel company: Epic Enabled
3 Bodrum Close
PO Box 1991
Sun Valley / Noordhoek
7985
South Africa

Tel: +27 21 785 3176
After hours: +27 21 785 3156
Mobile: +27 73 2282825