This Week >> 2/14/2008
Come with us this week to the Adventure Travel Expo to hear the sounds of West African drummers and learn about their countries -- the Ivory Coast, Guinea West Africa, Ghana. Then come backpacking with us through South Africa and experience South African tribal dances.
For a very detailed and informative interactive map of Africa, click here
Where we'll be exploring
Guinea (orange on map)
Size: 245,860 sq. km. (95,000 sq. mi.), about the size of Oregon.
Population (2002 census): 8,444,559, including refugees and foreign residents.
Guinea has four main ethnic groups:
- Peuhl (Foula or Foulani), who inhabit the mountainous Fouta Djallon;
- Malinke (or Mandingo), in the savannah and forest regions;
- Soussous in the coastal areas; and
- Several small groups (Gerzé, Toma, etc.) in the forest region.
Ivory Coast (blue on map)
Size: 322,460 sq km, slightly larger than New Mexico
Population (2002 census): 18,013,409, broken down:
Akan 42.1%, Voltaiques or Gur 17.6%, Northern Mandes 16.5%, Krous 11%, Southern Mandes 10%, other 2.8% (includes 130,000 Lebanese and 14,000 French).
Ivory Coast is among the world's largest producers and exporters of coffee, cocoa beans, and palm oil. Consequently, the economy is highly sensitive to weather conditions and to fluctuations in international prices for these products. Despite government attempts to diversify the economy, it is still heavily dependent on agriculture and related activities, engaging roughly 68% of the population.
Ghana (red on map)
Size: 239,460 sq km, slightly smaller than Oregon
Population (2002 census): 22,931,299, broken down:
Akan 45.3%, Mole-Dagbon 15.2%, Ewe 11.7%, Ga-Dangme 7.3%, Guan 4%, Gurma 3.6%, Grusi 2.6%, Mande-Busanga 1%, other tribes 1.4%, other 7.8%
Well endowed with natural resources, Ghana has roughly twice the per capita output of the poorest countries in West Africa. Even so, Ghana remains heavily dependent on international financial and technical assistance. Gold and cocoa production, and individual remittances, are major sources of foreign exchange. The domestic economy continues to revolve around agriculture, which accounts for about 35% of GDP and employs about 55% of the work force, mainly small landholders.
Guests
Backpacking South Africa
South Africa is the world in one country. From pristine beaches, to majestic mountains, to top notch wines, to free-roaming wildlife, to exciting local cuisine & adventures of every kind, SA has something for everyone. We hope to welcome you soon and show you around...
Exactly why should you visit South Africa?
WILD LIFE SAFARIS
With world-renowned game parks, South Africa is easily the best Safari Destination in the world. Watching the Big Five and other fascinating animals in their natural environment is the only way to really appreciate wildlife.
We guarantee the animals won't be bored and neither will you!
8 WORLD HERITAGE SITES
The Cradle of Human Kind, Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park, Robben Island, uKhalamba-Drakensberg Park, Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape, Cape Floral Region protected area, Vredefort Meteorite Impact Dome, Richtersveld Cultural/Botanical Landscape
RICH AFRICAN CULTURE
South Africa is aptly called "the Rainbow Nation". We have 11 official languages and many diverse and unique cultures. We can't forget the influence of our friendly neighbours. You can explore the traditions and customs of African cultures in our urban townships and rural villages.
You may not understand all of what you see and hear, but you won't fail to feel the spirit of Africa.
THE BEST OF THE OUTDOORS
With all this sunshine and beautiful scenery, it is difficult to resist the lure of the outdoors. Adventurers can find their thrills in the air, on land and in the water. Some are easy, some are extreme. Here is just a taste - hike, bike, pony trek, surf, bungee " We have the highest in the world" or explore our marine wonderlands - with or without the cage.
The Drum Café has fast established itself as the authority on traditional African music. Synonymous with group drumming and interactive team-building, we are also one of Southern Africa's leading entertainment agencies. We specialize in African traditional, modern and fusion performances and shows as well as custom-made entertainment.
For more info on the Drum cafe, visit:
The Offical Site of the Drum Cafe
www.drumcafe.org