Oasis blog
Below is a selection of our top blogs. Keep up to date with all the latest news from Oasis.
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Reduce Plastic Waste On Your Adventures With Water To Go
We're passionate about providing our customers with unforgettable travel experiences while also being mindful of the impact our journeys have on the environment.
One issue that has gained significant attention in recent years is the excessive use of single-use plastic bottles. To address this problem, we've teamed up with Water to Go, a company dedicated to reducing plastic waste and promoting responsible travel.
In this blog post, we'll introduce you to Water to Go and explain how their reusable filter bottles can help you significantly cut down on your plastic usage during your adventures with Encounters Travel and Oasis Overland.
THE PROBLEM WITH SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BOTTLES
Single-use plastic bottles have long been a convenient source of hydration for travelers. However, their impact on the environment is substantial. These bottles often end up in landfills, oceans, and other natural habitats, causing pollution, harming wildlife, and disrupting ecosystems.
As responsible travelers, we recognize the need to reduce our plastic consumption and provide sustainable alternatives to our customers. That's why we've partnered with Water to Go to offer a fantastic solution.
MEET WATER TO GO
Water to Go is a company on a mission to tackle the issue of plastic pollution by providing travelers with reusable filter bottles. These bottles are not your average water containers. They are designed with advanced filtration technology that allows you to safely refill your bottle from natural water sources, taps, and even in places where tap water is not typically considered safe to drink.
THE MAGIC OF WATER TO GO BOTTLES
Water to Go's reusable filter bottles are much more than just a water container. They can filter out harmful substances from various water sources, making them a perfect companion for your journeys with Encounters Travel and Oasis Overland. Here are some of the key benefits:
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Reduction in Plastic Waste: Depending on the size of the bottle you select, each Water to Go filter can replace 260-400 single-use plastic bottles. By using one of these bottles, you'll significantly reduce your plastic waste while traveling.
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Multi-Contaminant Filtration: Water to Go bottles are equipped with cutting-edge technology that can remove harmful bacteria, viruses, waterborne diseases, protozoa, heavy metals, chlorine, and fluoride from tap water. This means you can safely drink from natural sources and taps, even in regions where tap water isn't typically potable.
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Long-Term Use: These durable and sustainable bottles are built to last. You can use them not only on your current trip but also on your next adventure with us.
HOW TO GET YOUR WATER TO GO BOTTLE
To encourage our customers to reduce plastic waste and embrace eco-friendly travel, we're offering an exclusive 25% discount on Water to Go bottles. Here's how you can take advantage of this offer:
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Visit the Water to Go website before your departure.
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Choose the bottle size that suits your needs.
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Use the promo code ENCOUNTERS25 or OASIS25 (valid in the UK, USA, and Canada) when making your purchase.
By purchasing a Water to Go bottle with this discount, you'll not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.
At Oasis Overland, we're committed to making your journeys not only memorable but also environmentally responsible. By partnering with Water to Go and offering their reusable filter bottles with a 25% discount, we hope to inspire you to reduce your plastic usage while exploring the world with us.
Together, we can make a significant difference and help protect the beautiful destinations we visit. So, join us in this eco-friendly initiative and enjoy a more sustainable and responsible travel experience.
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Experience the Victoria Falls Carnival on your next adventure
For those who are new to the carnival scene, the Vic Falls Carnival is hosted in Zimbabwe and is one of Africa’s biggest parties of the year, bringing you the best entertainment and an experience of a lifetime. Not only are you promised an amazing time but the carnival is also three days long. From award-winning DJs to brand new acts, this event is dipped in culture and is the perfect place to meet new people, enjoy great music and just let loose.
The Victoria Falls Carnival was previously held over the New Year’s period but was changed last year to its own standalone date. This year, it will be running from 28-30 April 2023 at the Elephant Hills Resort, right next to the mighty Zambezi River. Due to the diverse culture, food and entertainment the event brings, the organizers felt it deserves to be celebrated on its own.
For more information on the Victoria Falls Carnival, visit their website or follow their social media pages.
Overland trips which include a Vic Falls Carnival Ticket
Several of our trips that run between Kenya and South Africa have been timed specially so that your time in Victoria Falls fits in with the Carnival, with a standard 3-day ticket included in our trip prices. There are also some VIP ticket options which include a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, private events and pool parties.
We have also extended our Deserts and Gameparks trips by 3 days so that you can start your trip partying at the Carnival before departing from Victoria Falls.
- Nairobi to Victoria Falls 53 Days Apes Lakes - 9 March 2023 Departure
- Nairobi to Cape Town 75 Days Grand Adventurer - 9 March 2023 Departure
- Nairobi to Johannesburg 93 Days Grand Adventurer - 9 March 2023 Departure
- Nairobi to Victoria Falls 34 Days Savanna Dawn - 28 March 2023 Departure
- Nairobi to Cape Town 56 Days Coast to Coast - 28 March 2023 Departure
- Nairobi to Johannesburg 74 Days Coast to Coast - 28 March 2023 Departure
- Harare to Cape Town 34 Days Deltas Dunes - 19 April 2023 Departure
- Victoria Falls to Cape Town 25 Days Deserts Gameparks - 28 April 2023 Departure
- Victoria Falls to Johannesburg 43 Days Deserts Gameparks - 28 April 2023 Departure
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Kigali Genocide Memorial
Written by Sue Moorcroft
How can human beings be so utterly and diabolically awful to each other? It is a question that remains a mystery to me but one I asked myself repeatedly as I toured the Kigali Genocide Memorial. I am not going to go into facts and figures and I am not going to dwell on the causes; my aim is to talk about the Memorial itself and what it is like to walk through the hallways of horror.
I rented an earpiece for USD20 and set off for my tour. The tour starts with an introduction – there is a strategically placed box of tissues in the hall for the emotional start. I told myself that I would be stoic in the face of tragedy and wholesale destruction and I wouldn’t be needing the tissues; after all, I have studied the horrors of the World War II holocaust and could handle this. It was a naïve notion that was soon put to the test and failed.
I think I had only reached halfway through the first section when the reality began to overwhelm me. Between the vivid pictures on the walls and the explanations from my earpiece, I was filled with the horror of what took place in a small slice of beautiful Africa. I must say that I was tempted to walk out at that point; however, I reminded myself that the people living through this hell did not have that luxury, so why should I?
About half way though the exhibition I did have to go outside for some fresh air and to gather myself. I was struggling with both cognitive understanding and emotional overwhelm when a well-dressed, kind and compassionate young man (who works at the Memorial) asked me if I was alright. My answer was that I was bracing myself to go back inside and continue the tour. He informed me that he was a Genocide survivor, that he was a child during that dreadful time in 1994. I was so humbled and more than a little embarrassed that a survivor was asking me, a tourist, if I was OK that I blurted the first thing that came to mind – “how do you move past this, how do you ever forgive what happened to your family and community?”. His response was simple; with a smile he said “how do I not?”
It was a thought-provoking answer that stopped my tears and caused me to repeat his answer quietly to myself. He said that in order for Rwanda to move forward and develop into the progressive, peaceful and clean country that it is today, it was important for all Rwandans to work together to rebuild their nation. He spoke of Ubumuntu; as a fellow African, this is a word that resonates with me. In southern Africa, we call it Ubuntu; in layman’s terms it means “I am, because you are”. It sums up what the spirit of Africa should always be and is essentially saying that what we do to others, we are also doing to ourselves.
I continued my trip through the memorial and it was not a walk in the park, as it were. There are pictures of the children who never had the chance to grow up, and some of those who did. The gentleman who spoke so kindly to me was one of those who survived. Other survivors visit the Memorial regularly to spend time with their long departed families as this is the only place where their families can be found. Some survivors cannot bring themselves to enter the Memorial, it is too traumatic for them. To forgive is one thing but to forget it is quite another.
There is also a section of past genocide events in history; the World War II holocaust, Serbia, Cambodia and others. It is a reminder to us all about what can happen in war and what human beings can be capable of in certain conditions, often with a huge but unhealthy dose of leadership influence.
The tour ends with a walk through beautiful rose gardens and water features; there are chairs to sit quietly and reflect on what has been experienced. The huge slabs of concrete remind the visitor that the memorial holds the remains of some 250,000 victims of the genocide.
I was told that the tour is said to take one hour, but that it could take two hours to complete. It took me two hours and it is two hours that I am deeply grateful I had the opportunity to spend at the Memorial. If you ever get the chance to do this tour, then please take the time to do it.
Trips that visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
All our trips that travel through Rwanda will make a visit here. Some examples are given below:
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Northern Morocco: Chefchaouen & Tangier
For many people, Morocco conjures up images of bustling medinas, exotic markets and stunning architecture but there is so much more to this amazing country than that. Morocco is a land of great natural beauty, with towering mountains, secluded beaches and rolling desert landscapes. It is also a land of great history and culture, with Roman ruins, medieval castles and ancient mosques. And of course, Morocco is renowned for its food, with a cuisine that is both exotic and delicious.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from hiking and mountain biking to camel trekking and sandboarding, as well as a number of luxurious spa resorts. You can also take a leisurely trek through the Atlas Mountains, stopping off at traditional Berber villages along the way. No matter what kind of holiday you are looking for, Morocco has something to offer. So why not start planning your trip today?
The Blue City of Chefchaouen
The city of Chefchaouen is famed for its striking blue-washed buildings which are set against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. This picturesque city is a popular tourist destination for adventure travellers and is accessible via a number of small airports. The city is relatively small, with a population of just over 30,000 people.
The blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen are its most defining feature. According to the locals, the buildings are traditionally painted blue in order to ward off evil spirits. This unusual colour scheme, coupled with the city's scenic setting, makes Chefchaouen a very popular tourist destination. Tours of the city typically last for a few hours and include a visit to the major sights of the city. The tours are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Chefchaouen.
Souks (Marketplace)
Although it might be less varied and grand than in larger cities like Casablanca or Marrakech, Chefchaouen boasts a stunning traditional souk. Consider buying souvenirs from the past after you've explored these maze-like, blue streets. The relaxed atmosphere is something you'll enjoy, and it is difficult to find in larger cities. You can also walk at your own pace, enjoying the local leather products Chefchaouen has bestowed upon you.
Kasbah Museum
The Kasbah Museum is a small, private museum located in the Moroccan city of Essaouira. The museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the region, and features a large collection of Moroccan art and artifacts. The museum also offers a variety of small group and private tours of the city, and is a popular destination for adventure travellers.
Cascades d’Akchour
There is a wealth of stunning natural scenery surrounding the city beyond the blue streets. A beautiful tourist trail leads to breathtaking waterfalls, which is approximately 30 minutes away from the city centre. You can enjoy the blue waters and take a swim in the rock pools. Or, you could just admire the magnificent view. Be sure to visit the Bridge of God rock arch that spans the river while you're there.
Tangier
Tangier is a gateway city, with its position on the Strait of Gibraltar making it the closest point in Africa to Europe. For this reason, it has been fought over and occupied by a number of empires and countries over the centuries, and as a result, its architecture, food and culture are a combination of Arab, Berber, Moorish, French and Spanish influences. The city has a fascinating and turbulent history and was once known as the “Playground of the Rich and Famous” due to its decadent reputation – a reputation that was no doubt helped by the fact that Tangier was a city where anything went. This was most famously captured in the novel “The Naked and the Dead” by Norman Mailer which is set in the city during World War II.
These days, Tangier is much more sedate but no less interesting. The old medina is a maze of streets and alleyways lined with small shops and stalls selling everything from spices to souvenirs. The souks are a great place to bargain for goods and haggle for prices. There are a number of must-see sights in Tangier including the Grand Mosque, the Museum of Moroccan Arts, the American Legation Museum and the Caves of Hercules. The city is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
The beaches of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic are within easy reach and there are a number of day trips that can be taken to places like Asilah, Chefchaouen and Meknes. Tangier is a city with a rich history and culture that is waiting to be explored. It is a place where East meets West, and a place that has something to offer everyone.
Tangier also has gorgeous cafes with breath-taking sea views. Here is a few you would not want to miss out on:
Cafe Hafa
A visit to Cafe Hafa in Tangier City is a must for any traveler looking to experience the rich culture and history of North Morocco. The cafe is located in the heart of the city, and offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some tours offer a more intimate look at the cafe and its history. The cafe also has a restaurant that serves up traditional Moroccan cuisine, which is sure to please any traveler looking for a taste of the local flavor.
Cafe Baba
Café Baba is one of the most popular cafés in Tangier and is known for its eclectic décor and lively atmosphere, taking you back to the 1940’s. Inside you’ll find a big wall of all the celebrities that had visited the café over the years such as The Rolling Stones, King of Sweden, King of Spain and many more. The café is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike and offers a wide range of activities and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and have a cup of coffee or you’re looking for a place to enjoy a night out on the town, Café Baba is the perfect destination for you.
Cafe La Gelateria
Located near Malabata Beach, La Gelateria Cafe is a popular tourist destination located in Tangier City, North Morocco. Even with stunning beach views and views of the city, this cafe is well known for its gelato, which is a type of Italian ice cream and Nutella-filled crepes. Adventure travellers often visit the cafe to experience the gelato and the cafe's other sweet offerings. Nothing ends off the perfect beach day with delicious sweet treats that melt in your mouth.
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Oasis Overland at London's 2023 Destinations Show
The Destinations Travel Show and Kensington Olympia between 2-5 February was not only an opportunity for Sales and Marketing; it was so much more than this. It was also an opportunity to meet up with old clients and new.
On our first day we took 4 bookings for our next Trans Africa tour starting in Morocco in November 2023. It quickly became apparent to us that our trip itineraries, post-Covid, still have the ability to spark the imagination and wanderlust in clients. We were visited by several people who were happy to tell us just how many countries they had visited; but it has to be said that more often than not, they found a country or two on our trips that they had not yet been to. It was gratifying to know that there were still places not yet ticked off on their bucket lists.
The Show was an opportunity for repeat clients to reminisce about tours done, places seen and activities undertaken. There were more than a few laughs about trip experiences that showed us clearly how our trips have made a lifelong positive impact on people from all walks of life. Oasis Overland is not only giving people the opportunity to visit far and distant lands, but also to make new friends and special memories that do last a lifetime. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary this year, we know that we are still providing an unforgettable experience on our overland vehicles for all walks of life.
We were delighted by the wide spectrum of age groups that came to see us; it is an important reminder that whatever the age, people love to travel and experience new places and are prepared to explore new destinations.
To all our visitors we say thank you. Thank you for sharing your stories, hopes and dreams with us; thank you for spending time with us and we look forward to travelling with you in the future.
For more details on our trips, we urge you to browse through our website and plan your next trip. Our team are waiting to hear from you and will help you to choose the best trip possible for you. We also encourage you to have a look at www.encounterstravel.com where you will find other equally tantalizing shorter trips to take.
One of the things we talked with people a lot about was our new schedule for our Central Asia trips in 2023. As we can't get our truck through Turkmenistan still, we are running these as small group trips instead, and it was great to launch and talk about these new trips at the show.
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Lebanon: Wine and Coffee
Lebanon is a beautiful country with plenty to offer tourists. The scenery is varied and breathtaking, from the snow-capped mountains to the azure Mediterranean Sea. There are plenty of historical and cultural sites to explore, as well as fun activities for the whole family. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled holiday or a more relaxed trip, Lebanon has something to suit everyone. There are plenty of small group tours and private tours available, so you can tailor your trip to your own needs and interests. Lebanon is a safe and welcoming country, and its people are known for their hospitality.
Lebanon is also renowned for its wine and coffee. The country's vineyards produce a wide variety of red and white wines, while its coffeehouses serve some of the finest Arabic coffee in the world.
Lebanon: Wine
The Bekaa Valley is home to a modern and vibrant wine industry that has recently seen rapid growth in both style and size. Nearly 90 percent of Lebanon’s wine comes from this region, along with a significant portion of the country's arak. Arak is an anise-flavored spirit and is still the favorited alcoholic beverage of the nation. The Valley is home to many of Lebanon's top wineries, including Chateau Ksara, Chateau Musar, and Domaine des Tourelles. There are also a number of smaller, family-run operations.
Cinsaut was used to plant the original Bekaa Valley vineyards. It was later joined by French varieties. These varieties are still present in Lebanon's current vinicultural composition: Syrah and Syrah red Carignan and Grenache; Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon; Merlot and Merlot white Ugni Blanc and Clairette.
Chateau Ksara is the oldest winery in this area. It was founded by Taanayel, a Jesuit Christian settlement located just below Ksara. It was first planted with grapes brought in from France through the colonies in Algeria in 1857.
At that time Lebanon was ruled by the Ottoman Empire, whose Sharia law condemned the production or consumption of wine except for religious purposes. Thus the initial winery was very subdued, and it was not until the French took control of the country after WW1 (under the League of Nations' French Mandate for Syria and Lebanon) that Bekaa Valley wine production began to expand.
The Bekaa Valley is a great place to explore Lebanese wine. There are a number of small group and private tour operators that offer wine tours of the Valley. The Bekaa Valley is a beautiful place. The scenery is stunning and the wines are excellent. If you are an adventurous traveler who is interested in exploring new wines, then a wine tour of the Bekaa Valley is a must-do.
Lebanon: Coffee
Nothing screams Lebanon more than a delicious cup of strong, black coffee. It can also be known as kahweh. This coffee comes from the Arabica beans, also known as Brazilian beans. This coffee is served in a variety of places for your enjoyment, at work, at home, in public cafes and many restuarants. Shortly after arriving at one’s home, guests are immediately encouraged and persuaded to stay for a cup of coffee as a sign of welcome.
Fun fact: Coffee is so integral to the Lebanese culture, it's often joked that anyone who doesn't like coffee can lose his nationality.
Looking for a recipe? We’ve got you covered.
This is what you’ll need:
1 cup of water (the size of an espresso cup)
1 tsp. ground coffee
1/2 tsp. powdered sugar
A pinch of cardamom (optional)
Now that you’ve got the ingredients, lets get started on the method:
Pour cold water into a coffee pot. You should use one cup of cold water for each cup you are making. Add a teaspoonful of the ground coffee per cup in the water while the water is cold and then stir it. The amount of coffee may be varied to taste, but do not forget - Don’t fill the pot too much. If you need to add sugar this is the time to do it.
Heat the pot as slowly as you can. The slower the heat the better it is. Make sure you watch it to prevent overflowing when the coffee boils.
When the coffee begins to rise up remove it from the heat. When foaming reduces, return it to the heat and bring it back to a boil. Repeat this procedure three times. The goal is to get maximum coffee flavour without over boiling. There should be a thick sediment on the bottom and a brown froth on the top.
NB: The amount of coffee and sugar may be decreased or increased according to taste. Since there is no filtering of coffee at any time during this process, you should wait for a few minutes before drinking your delicious Lebanese coffee while the coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup.
Because coffee is such an integral part of the culture, it is also served in its own unique way. A long-handled coffee pot, also known as rakweh, is used to pour the coffee in front of guests. It's then served in cups about the same size as espresso cups on a tray. As enjoyable as the coffee is, it is also very important to know when to stop drinking it as you could end up with a mouthful of tefl, coffee residue, that was left in the bottom of the cup.
So in order to have the best coffee experience, here’s what you need to do:
- Place your coffee cup holder on top of your coffee cup
- Swirl your cup in a circular motion three times horizontally
- With a quick movement, turn the coffee cup with the cup holder upside down
- The coffee will gradually be brought down along the bottom of the coffee cup to the holder
- Let the cup sit for approximately 2 minutes and then give it to your cup reader
A coffee cup reader is usually your coffee host, whether at home or at a shop. They interpret the shapes of your coffee cups and give you tips and advice about your life.
So why not come and explore all that this fascinating country has to offer? You won't be disappointed by these unforgettable experiences!
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Celebrating World Women's Day
This year World Women’s Day celebrates the theme of DigitALL; that is, Innovation and technology for gender equality. Now you may be asking yourself what this has to do with our trips and how we dovetail it into our adventures. Travelling with Oasis Overland will show you the answer to this.
As we share our journey with you through rural villages and communities, you will notice that it is often the women who are selling you vegetables, food stuffs and curios that make your journey all the more community integrative and fun. Despite language barriers, women are able to communicate on an intuitive level; a woman will know what you need to buy to feed a group and she will be proud of what she has harvested early that morning to be able to, not only feed you organic foodstuffs, but also to feed her own family at the end of a long working day. More often than not, the ladies selling to you in local markets along our journey will have babies and small children at their side; they are combining work and motherhood in a way that defies the rationale that multitasking is not possible. This they do through necessity not simply because they want to do it.
The women you meet are not selling their wares because they are lacking intelligence; given the opportunity, many of these ladies would be captains of industry. However, the opportunities have not been made available to them, either through formal education, reading self-help books or having the luxury of working on their self-development. But, their innate intelligence and innovation must never be underestimated – they manage on a daily basis to grow a product that is sellable, sell that product, raise children, feed their families and all the while working as a collective group that allows them to lean on each other in hard times and celebrate the good. As Robin Sharma says, “Your work is your craft. Your life is your art.” How many of us can say we have lived each day as richly, and how many of us can do it without an electronic technological device that reminds us of what we need to do and at what time?
This year, the United Nations have chosen the DigitALL theme for the 67th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW-67) {IUCN.org}. There is something here that should strike you – 67 years into the commission, how much progress has been made regarding gender equality? Should 8 March not be a day to celebrate the achievement of goals rather than still trying to reach them?
As individuals, we are not able to make the global changes necessary; but we are all able to contribute towards gender equality and economic balance one step at a time – as the Chinese Philosopher Lao Tzu said “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”. The next time you are greeted with a delightful and friendly smile from a market vendor, remember how this particular lady brightens your day and sells you much needed nourishment or travel mementos by which to remember your holiday. Ask yourself – “would I be able to do this?”
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2022 Travel Update 🚍
The whole team here at Oasis Overland are thrilled to have our iconic big yellow trucks back on the road at last! We have already completed our first East and Southern Africa overland trip and our second is currently underway. If you would like to experience this incredible continent with us please have a look at some of our confirmed departures listed below and if you have any questions at all or would simply like to book, please get in touch.
Confirmed departures
Africa Overland Trips:
- VICTORIA FALLS TO CAPE TOWN (22 DAYS) DESERTS & GAMEPARKS - 4th August (this departure is for families as well as adults)
- NAIROBI TO KIGALI (13 DAYS) GORILLAS & GAMEPARKS – 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO NAIROBI (19 DAYS) GORILLAS & GAMEPARKS - 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO DAR ES SALAAM (33 DAYS) GORILLAS, GAMEPARKS & ZANZIBAR – 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO HARARE (41 DAYS) APES & LAKES - 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS (53 DAYS) APES & LAKES - 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN (75 DAYS) GRAND ADVENTURER - 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG (93 DAYS) GRAND ADVENTURER - 26th September, 7th November
- NAIROBI TO DAR ES SALAAM (14 DAYS) GAMEPARKS & ZANZIBAR – 15th October, 26th November
- NAIROBI TO HARARE (22 DAYS) SAVANNA DAWN - 15th October, 26th November
- NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS (34 DAYS) SAVANNA DAWN- 15th October, 26th November
- NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN (56 DAYS) COAST TO COAST - 15th October, 26th November
- NAIROBI TO JOHANNESBURG (74 DAYS) COAST TO COAST - 15th October, 26th November
- HARARE TO CAPE TOWN (34 DAYS) DELTAS & DUNES – 6th November, 18th December
- VICTORIA FALLS TO CAPE TOWN (22 DAYS) DESERTS & GAMEPARKS 18th November, 30th December
- VICTORIA FALLS TO JOHANNESBURG (40 DAYS) DESERTS & GAMEPARKS –18th November, 30th December
- CAPE TOWN TO JOHANNESBURG (17 DAYS) SOUTH AFRICA & LESOTHO – 11th December
Small Group Adventure Trips - we have regular departures in 2022 but our most popular are:
- ISLAMABAD TO ISLAMABAD (15 DAYS) KARAKORUM HIGHLIGHTS 3rd September, 24th September
- ISLAMABAD TO ISLAMABAD (21 DAYS) KARAKORUM HIGHLIGHTS & CHITRAL VALLEY - 3rd September, 24th September
- LIMA TO LIMA (15 DAYS) PERU ENCOMPASSED - 25th October
- LIMA TO LIMA (19 DAYS) INCAS & AMAZON (INC. AMAZON JUNGLE) - 25th October
- LIMA TO LA PAZ (21 DAYS) PERU & BOLIVIA EXPLORER - 25th October
- LIMA TO LA PAZ (30 DAYS) PERU & BOLIVIA ENCOMPASSED - 25th October
- CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH (8 DAYS) MOROCCAN HIGHLIGHTS – 18th September, 13th November
- LA PAZ TO LA PAZ (11 DAYS) BOLIVIA ENCOMPASSED – 13th November
New Patagonia tour
More exciting news! We have been asked by a lot of travellers for a more compact option to explore the national parks, mountains and glaciers of Patagonia. We have therefore put a new Patagonia Highlights tour together, starting in Punta Arenas in Chile, close to Torres del Paine National Park, and finishing in El Chalten in Argentina, at the foot of Glaciers National Park.
The tour will be run with one of our specially designed South American overland trucks, and include a mix of camping and hotel accommodation, with plenty of mountain hikes and other adventurous activities included along the way. The best season to visit Patagonia runs from October through to March, and we will have regular departures through this period.
Newsletter subscribers will be able to take advantage of a 10% discount on any of these, plus a 15% discount off the very first departure, starting on the 2nd October. Just mention you've seen this offer in your newsletter and we'll apply it to your booking.
Do get in touch if we can help you with any of the trips listed above.
Stay well, and hope to see you on the road soon!
Best wishes,
The Oasis Overland team
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New! Central Asia Small Group Adventures for 2023
We have four brand new trips for you to join this year, exploring Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
With Turkmenistan’s land borders remaining closed to tourists, our trucks are not yet able to reach the ‘Stans. Whilst we are hopeful that next year our truck trips will be able to restart, we can’t wait that long to start travelling in Central Asia again! So, we have created some new itineraries in the Central ‘Stans that use a variety of local transport from Uzbekistan’s bullet trains and sleeper trains to private minivans and 4 wheel drive vehicles.
Accommodation will range from yurt camps to family guesthouses and small local hotels. We’ve kept the itineraries as close to our truck trips as possible with some brilliant new places and experiences added in! These include the Silk Road city of Khiva, the Khorezm Fortresses in Uzbekistan’s desert, Charyn Canyon and Altyn-Emel National Park in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan’s spectacular Fann Mountains and traditional eagle hunting and horse games displays in Kyrgyzstan.
Many of you will know our Tour Leader Alexis who will be leading these trips and ensuring everyone has an incredible trip. We hope you can join us!
Kyrgyzstan Uncovered
Starting this June, our Kyrgyzstan Uncovered tour will take you through both Kyrgyzstan’s and Kazakhstan’s stunning, wild landscapes. Explore the singing dune of Altyn-Emel National Park in Kazakhstan and the little visited southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan’s huge alpine lake. Experience traditional eagle hunting and horse games and stay in a yurt camp at Lake Song Kol.
Starts 15th June, ends 30th June 2023, £1295 plus US$500 Local Payment.
18-Day Silk Road Explorer
Journey through Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan on our 18 day Silk Road Explorer, to experience incredible mountain scenery and vast open landscapes as well as ancient silk road settlements and cities. From the beautiful lakes of Issyk-Kul and Son Kol, we journey to Central Asia’s oldest bazaar in Osh to the centre of silk production in the Fergana Valley and on to the stunning peaks and lakes of the Fann Mountains.
Starts 8th July, ends 25th July 2023, £1495 plus US$550 Local Payment.
23-Day Silk Road Adventure
For Silk Road cities, ancient fortresses and modern cities as well as vast, wild landscapes and beautiful natural scenery, have a look at our 23 day Silk Road Adventure. Travel from Dushanbe in Tajikistan into Uzbekistan and the famous Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara. Take the fast bullet train from Bukhara to Tashkent, before crossing into Kazakhstan for modern city life in Shymkent and Almaty. The last leg of the journey travels through incredible scenery around Lake Issyk-Kul, finishing in Kyrgyzstan’s capital Bishkek.
Starts 25th July, ends 16th August 2023, £2095 plus US$500 Local Payment.
40-Day Silk Road Circuit
The 40 day Silk Road Circuit combines the 18 day and 23 day trips.
Follow one of the world's most well renowned highways; the Silk Road - discover the ancient trading routes through the 'Stans' and visit some of the oldest cities in the world. Take a journey across the expanse of Kyrgyzstan and up in to the Western Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan, before exploring Uzbekistan the heart of the Silk Road and returning through the wilds of Kazakhstan back to Bishkek.
Starts 8th July, ends 16th August 2023, £3595 plus US$500 Local Payment.
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6 Countries to visit in Central Asia
Central Asia remains a place where adventure is unavoidable - from its fabled Silk Road nations that divide Europe and Asia have been central to world history for years.
Trust us when we say you’d wish you'd gone sooner – here you’ll find thousand-year-old mosques, 7000-meter-high mountains, humming cities, and achingly vast stretches of desert. Each country is distinct and worthy of exploration.
Here is a list of what countries we recommend you visit and why - in no particular order of course.
Pakistan
It’s hard to imagine why travellers tend to overlook Pakistan when it's home to beautiful landscapes, rugged peaks, hidden villages, and wind-swept plains.
Urban Centres
Pakistan's urban centres pack enough city delights to satisfy any traveller - in Lahore, arguably the country's cultural, intellectual, and artistic hub, travellers can find spiritual sustenance in qawwali (Islamic devotional singing) performances before striking up a conversation about the latest developments in the world of cricket.
Food, fashion, art museums – it can all be found in the metropolitan areas.
The Mighty Karakoram
Stretching north from the Northwest Frontier to Kashgar in China, the Karakoram is one of the world's most vast highways boasting an astonishing feat of engineering forced against the odds through the tortured bedrock of the Karakoram mountains.
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is known for its beauty, welcoming locals, accessibility, and - crucially - still relatively untouched. Few westerners have made the trip out to Central Asia and its crown jewel, which means there’s more for the rest of the adventurous travellers.
Mecca for the outdoors
From rock climbing, white-water rafting to mountain biking, wildlife safaris, and so much more!
If you like to get dirty and love a good adrenaline rush, then Kyrgyzstan should be nipping at your heels.
Kyrgyzstan also hosts numerous trails, well-maintained, and extremely rewarding. If needed, there are plenty of experienced adventure guides to be found to show you some of the best routes.
Friendly people
In many nomadic cultures, there are unwritten rules about hospitality: guests are treated like royalty and no expense is overlooked, and in Kyrgyzstan, this is no exception - the people are true to their nomadic roots.
Horse riding
If you haven’t ridden a horse before, this would be a great place to have your first experience - the power, the speed, the connection; horses are among the most spectacular of Earth’s creatures.
Horses are very important to Kyrgyzstan. They are means of transport, a source of subsistence, and a friend on lonely rides. They can be found almost everywhere in the country, from the countryside to backyards to even on the side of the highway.
If you want something a bit more adventurous, consider organizing a horse trek. This means that for several days, you’ll ride a horse through Kyrgyz grandeur and pack everything that you need to survive including food and tents. It’s unique and one of the most exciting ways to experience the country.
Tajikistan
Tajikistan is a country that combines a unique historical atmosphere, untouched nature and progressive development.
The Republic of Tajikistan is famous for its centuries-old Tajikistan history. Here, you find that the culture and traditions of the whole of Central Asia with Persian roots are mixed.
The oldest city in Central Asia
In Tajikistan, there is the oldest city in Central Asia's entire territory called Khujand. Khujand is a city located on the Great Silk Road and has always been known to be home to artisans, warriors, and merchants.
The city of Khujand is located right on the Syr Darya Riverbank, which happens to be the city that fought off the army of Alexander the Great, repulsed Genghis Khan's horde, drove off the Arab invaders, withstood the attacks of tsarist Russia, and withstood hundreds of wars.
Fann Mountains
One of the most popular attractions of Tajikistan is by far the Fann Mountains. The easiest and fastest way to get here is through Samarkand, but the long journey is worth every minute.
The Fann Mountains are part of the Pamir-Alai system and are distinguished by a unique system of stormy rivers, mountains, crystal clear lakes, and glaciers.
Throughout the mountain hub, there are numerous hotels, restaurants, as well as rental points of all kinds of sports equipment.
Tibet
Tibet remains an almost mythical destination to travel to - it's home to some of the world's friendliest people, breathtaking landscapes that are dominated by the sky-soaring Himalayas and fascinating Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
The scenery
The unrivalled nature of Tibet varies from valleys surrounded by snow-peaked mountains to scenic lakes to lush forests to deep canyons.
Taking photos of Mount Everest, the snow-capped roof of the world that separates Tibet from Nepal, is reason enough to visit Tibet. You can also visit Mount Kailash, a sacred mountain among the Buddhists and Hindus.
Monasteries and Temples
When touring Tibet, you will be impressed by the distinctive monasteries and temples. These monasteries are not only sacred worship sites for pilgrims but also popular attractions for tourists.
The Jokhang Temple is a spiritual centre for the Tibetan people - it's an architectural masterpiece of Lhasa. It features Chinese, Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan details - the temple displays exquisite murals and Buddha statues in various postures throughout chapels, rooms and hallways.
Potala Palace is the UNESCO site dominating the skyline of Lhasa - featuring Red and White palaces accessible via monumental stairways, Potala combines elements of a place of worship and a stronghold.
The locals
Wherever you travel around the world, you meet people that are pleasant, friendly, warm, and this is exactly what you will experience the minute you step foot in Tibet.
The people here are remarkably hospitable and friendly toward travellers, honest and sincere! Tibetans will go the extra mile to treat their guests with a feast and give them a present before parting ways.
Tasty food
When travelling the world, the local food is one of the essential parts of the entire journey. In Tibet, there is various delicious food with a distinct flavour that is unique to the plateau.
Armenia
Armenia is a tiny country, often overlooked and forgotten by travellers due to it being tucked away behind Turkey and its neighbour, Georgia. It’s an ancient and mystical land, and a country still unspoiled by the crowds of mass tourism.
Its history
Despite its tumultuous history, the Armenian people are fiercely proud of their country’s history, and for good reason. The Armenian civilization used to span from Persia into Eastern Europe and was home to many significant historical firsts such as being the first country to make wine, and the first country to adopt Christianity.
Friendly people
In some countries, pride in one’s nation stands in the way of friendliness towards foreigners. In Armenia, the exact opposite is true: because people are so proud of their heritage, they’re extremely happy when people visit.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is said to be an intriguingly cosmopolitan place. This vast country, which stretches from the Caspian Sea to China, is one of Asia’s most diverse - ethnic Kazakhs and Russians rub shoulders with Uzbeks, Ukrainians, Tatars, Germans and many more in an enviably harmonious mix.
Skiing in the city
Just a short 30 minute drive away from Almaty city centre you'll find the popular Shymbulak Ski Resort, also known to be the most advanced ski resort in Central Asia so you can expect mod-cons like Wi-Fi and cafes.
At any time of year, it’s well worth escaping the city smog to ride the 4km series of ski lifts, with their fetching leopard-print cabins.
The silk roads
There’s no better introduction to Kazakhstan’s multifaceted ethnic patchwork than the bustling Green Bazaar market hall. Here you'll find that fresh produce is abundant: the foothills around Almaty lay strong claim to be the ancestral home of the apple (the city’s name means “father of the apple”) and the fruit here can grow to giant proportions.