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Masai Mara
Wildebeest Migration | Maasai Mara safari |
Kenya |
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Masai Mara
Wildebeest Migration:
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The
Wildebeest arrive at the Mara River
around July and cross over onto the
Masai Mara plains. The wildebeest
remain here until October, when they
return to Tanzania. Gazetted in
1961, the Reserve is located west of
the Rift Valley and is a natural
extension of the Serengeti plains.
The Mara River, the reserve's
backbone, traverses north to south.
This river course is the natural
barrier crossed every year by the
large herds of wildebeest and zebra
during their migration.
May & June:
Maasai Mara safari
In late May, the herds leave the
Western Corridor for the northern
Serengeti plains and woodlands. The
fresh, tender and mineral-rich
pastures on the other side of the
humans' border, in Masai Mara, are
the irresistible bait for the
animals to finally invade the Kenyan
reserve, an event which usually
starts in late June to early July.
The troops coming from the south
meet here another migratory
contingent: the resident wildebeest
herds of the Mara region. These
animals reside in the Loita Plains
and Hills, northeast of the Mara,
until the dry season brings the
tougher days and it is time to seek
the evergreen Mara basin.
July to October:
Maasai Mara safari
Throughout the month of July, the
herds cross the Sand River, a mostly
dry tributary of the Mara which
roughly follows the boundary line
between Kenya and Tanzania. The
parade takes the eastern sector of
Masai Mara, surrounding the Keekorok
Lodge area. The trek follows
westward, leading the herds to face
the major challenge along their
quest: crossing the Mara river and
frequently also its tributary, the
Talek. By then, the rains at the Mau
Escarpment, where the Mara rises,
have fed the stream to its highest
levels.
The steep banks are populated with
trunk-looking basking crocodiles
that seem almost to be expecting
their annual banquet. The operation
of fording the river is the most
delicate along the migration, and as
such seems to plunge the gnus in a
state of anxiety that only relieves
when the whole herd has crossed. The
trekkers walk along the left
(eastern) bank of the Mara looking
for a suitable point to cross. There
are plenty of preferred crossings
along the course, which are easily
identifiable by the lack of
vegetation, the depressed slopes and
the deep grooves carved by the
animals' hooves. These are the most
secure places to ford the river,
those that ensure a minimal
mortality. Nonetheless, the apparent
programming of the whole process
sometimes seems to collapse, and the
nervous herds occasionally choose
places where the banks are too steep
and many of the animals break their
legs down the cliff or fall flat
into the waters. The herds gather at
the suitable points and wander
around nervously, their grunts
sounding loud in the air.
Eventually, one animal takes the
lead and approaches the rim,
scanning the opposite edge to
analyze if any danger awaits after
the crossing. When it finally dives
into the stream, this seems to haul
the rest of the herd. More animals
follow in a single line across the
river, while the lagged ones throw
themselves towards the stream until
the rearguard pushes the troops to a
frantic race that ends up with some
animals trampled to death, lying
aside the course. Along the boreal
summer, the crossings repeat over
and over, and the survivors graze
peacefully on the Mara Triangle
grasslands unless disturbed by the
early-morning and late-evening hunts
of lion and cheetah, the latter
preying on the calves.
By October, the rains are heading
south back to the Serengeti. This is
when the pace of the march reverses,
bringing the herds to face once more
the quest for the southern
grasslands. The rite of fording the
river is again part of nature's
call. In the last days of October,
the migration heads towards the vast
plains of the southern Serengeti,
where a new generation of calves
will be born to start the cycle of
life all over again. Normally the
route is down the eastern side and
the pace is fast. Quite often a
million animals can be seen
stretched out.
Serengeti National Park:
Serengeti wildebeest migration
Serengeti is easily Tanzania's most
famous national park, and it's also
the largest, at 14,763 square
kilometres of protected area that
borders Kenya's Masai Mara Game
Park. Its far-reaching plains of
endless grass, tinged with the
twisted shadows of acacia trees,
have made it the quintessential
image of a wild and untarnished
Africa. Its large stone kopjes are
home to rich ecosystems, and the
sheer magnitude and scale of life
that the plains support is
staggering. Large prides of lions
laze easily in the long grasses,
plentiful families of elephants feed
on acacia bark and trump to each
other across the plains, and
giraffes, gazelles, monkeys, eland,
and the whole range of African
wildlife is in awe-inspiring
numbers.
The annual wildebeest migration
through the Serengeti and the Masai
Mara attract visitors from around
the world, who flock to the open
plains to witness the largest mass
movement of land mammals on the
planet. More than a million animals
make the seasonal journey to fresh
pasture to the north, then the
south, after the biannual rains. The
sound of their thundering hooves,
raising massive clouds of thick red
dust, has become one of the legends
of the Serengeti plains. The entire
ecosystem thrives from the annual
migration, from the lions and birds
of prey that gorge themselves on the
weak and the faltering to the gamut
of hungry crocodiles that lie in
patient wait at each river crossing
for their annual feed.
But it's not just the wildebeest who
use the Serengeti as a migratory
pathway. The adjacent reserves of
Maswa and Ikorongo, the Ngorongoro
Conservation Area, and the Masai
Mara Game Reserve in Kenya all allow
the animals and birds of the area a
free range of movement to follow
their seasonal migrations. Indeed,
in the wake of the wildebeest
migration, many of the less
attention-grabbing features of the
Serengeti are often overlooked. The
park has varied zones in which each
ecosystem is subtly different .
Seronera in the centre of the park
is the most popular and most easily
visited area. The Grumeti River in
the Western Corridor is the location
for the dramatic river crossing
during the wildebeest migration.
Maswa Game Reserve to the south
offers a remote part of the park
rewarding in its game-viewing and
privacy, and Lobo near the Kenyan
border offers a change to see
plentiful game during the dry
season.
Aside from traditional vehicle bound
safaris, hot-air ballooning over the
Serengeti plains has become a safari
rite-of-passage for travel
enthusiasts. The flights depart at
dawn over the plains and take
passengers close over the awakening
herds of wildebeest and zebra,
gazelle and giraffe. The extra
altitude allows guests to witness
the striking stretches of plains
punctuated only by kopjes. Up in the
sky, you have Africa all to
yourself.
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Maasai Mara safari:
Tanzania is a
travelers paradise. Within a limited time,
you can climb Mount Kilimanjaro, go on a
safari in Tanzania, into the Serengeti plain
- home to some of the largest concentrations
of animals anywhere on the planet -, and
finally end your time relaxing on the
beaches of the exotic spice island of
Zanzibar. Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest
mountain in Africa - and one of the most
climbed mountains in the world. Anyone who
is reasonably fit can climb Kilimanjaro and
trek for one week up to see the actual
fabled snows of Kilimanjaro, which sits just
south of the Equator.
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MASAI MARA GAME
RESERVE: Maasai Mara safari
The Masai Mara is one of the best
known and most popular reserves in
the whole of Africa. At times and in
certain places it can get a little
overrun with tourist minibuses, but
there is something so special about
it that it tempts you back time and
again.
Seasoned safari travellers, travel
writers, documentary makers and
researchers often admit that the
Masai Mara is one of their favourite
places. So why is that? Perhaps it
is because of the 'big skies', the
open savannahs, the romance of films
like 'Out of Africa' and certainly
because of the annual wildebeest
migration, the density of game, the
variety of birdlife and the chance
of a hot air balloon ride.
Also because of the tall red-robed
Masai people whose lifestyle is
completely at odds with western
practices, and from whom one learns
to question certain western values.
A combination of all these things
plus something to do with the spirit
of the place - which is hard to put
into words - is what attracts people
to the Mara over and over.
The Masai Mara lies in the Great
Rift Valley, which is a fault line
some 3,500 miles (5,600km) long,
from Ethiopia's Red Sea through
Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi and into
Mozambique. Here the valley is wide
and a towering escarpment can be
seen in the hazy distance. Most of
the game viewing activities occur on
the valley floor, but some lodges
conduct walking tours outside the
park boundaries in the hills of the
Oloololo Escarpment. The animals are
also at liberty to move outside the
park into huge areas known as
'dispersal areas'. There can be as
much wildlife roaming outside the
park as inside. Many Masai villages
are located in the 'dispersal areas'
and they have, over centuries,
developed a synergetic relationship
with the wildlife.
There are four main types of
topography in the Mara: Ngama Hills
to the east with sandy soil and
leafy bushes liked by black rhino;
Oloololo Escarpment forming the
western boundary and rising to a
magnificent plateau; Mara Triangle
bordering the Mara River with lush
grassland and acacia woodlands
supporting masses of game especially
migrating wildebeest; Central Plains
forming the largest part of the
reserve, with scattered bushes and
boulders on rolling grasslands
favoured by the plains game.
MASAI MARA
ANIMALS & BIRDS:
In a short stay during the
wildebeest migration you could see
thousands of animals, at other times
there are still hundreds. The plains
are full of wildebeest, zebra,
impala, topi, giraffe, Thomson's
gazelle. Also regularly seen are
leopards, lions, hyenas, cheetah,
jackal and bat-eared foxes. Black
rhino are a little shy and hard to
spot but are often seen at a
distance.
Hippos are abundant in the Mara
River as are very large Nile
crocodiles, who lay in wait for a
meal as the wildebeest cross on
their annual quest to find new
pastures.
Every July (or sometimes August),
the wildebeest travel over 600 miles
(960km) from Tanzania's Serengeti
plains, northwards to the Masai Mara
and the Mara River is the final
obstacle. In October or November,
once they have feasted and the grass
has all but gone, they turn around
and go back the other way.
The Mara birds come in every size
and colour including common but
beautiful ones like the lilac
breasted roller and plenty of large
species like eagles, vultures and
storks. There are 53 different birds
of prey.
Wildebeest Migration River Crossing.
MASAI MARA
SEASONS:
Altitude is 4,875-7,052 feet
(1,500-2,170 metres) above sea
level, which yields a climate
somewhat milder and damper than
other regions. The daytime rarely
exceeds 85°F (30°C) during the day
and hardly ever drops below 60°F
(15°C) at night.
Rainy Season: It rains in April and
May and again November and this can
cause some areas of the Mara to be
inaccessible due to the sticky
'black cotton' mud.
Dry Season: July to October is dry
and the grass is long and lush after
the rains. This is a good time to
come and see the huge herds of
migratory herbivores.
Hottest time: The warmest time of
year is December and January.
Coldest Time: June and July are the
coldest months.
MASAI MARA SPECIALITIES
· Wildebeest Migration
· Hot Air Ballooning
· Huge savannahs of golden
grasslands
· Big skies
· Rift Valley escarpment
· Lion sightings
MASAI MARA
FACTS:
-This is a malarial area
-Masai Mara Game
Reserve covers an area of
1,510 km²
-There is no night driving and
vehicles must be back at the lodge
by 6pm, except at
Mara Serena Lodge where night game
drive is available.
-Several lodges are located outside
the park's boundaries, but as there
are few fences you may not be aware
of this.
-Masai Mara
is a Reserve rather than a National
Park and it belongs to
the Masai people.
Basecamp Masai Mara
Basecamp is a small camp built on
principles of ecotourism and
environmental awareness. All water
used is recycled and solar panels
are used for heating and lighting.
The camp features 16 spacious and
luxurious tents hidden away on a
lush peninsula embedded by trees on
the banks of the Talek River and
shaded by thatched roofs. You have
your own veranda and bathroom
ensuite with a solar heated shower
under an open sky and an eco-toilet
which some guests may need to get
used to. View the wildlife from the
comfort of your tent, the fig-tree
platform, or while lazing over a
drink in the open air bar. Basecamp
is a meeting place where guests can
experience people, traditions and
nature in an open and intimate
atmosphere. Its genuine ambiance
engages visitors, for example during
the evening talks about Maasai life
at the open fire which often lead to
stimulating conversations and
discussions.
Bateleur Camp
This exclusive safari camp is the
epitome of private tented luxury.
Bateleur Camp is a member of Small
Luxury Hotels of the World and
comprises just nine tented suites
set among the forests on the edge of
the Masai Mara. Lying at the base of
the Olololo escarpment just below
the spot where Out of Africa’s most
famous scene was shot, this romantic
and totally private camp reflects
the ambience of Kenyan safaris of
the 20s and 30s. The camp lies
directly in the path of the annual
migration of wildebeest and zebra
and after a morning game drive, the
pool offers relaxation during the
heat of the day. Beautiful antiques
adorn the comfortable lounge and
in-door/outdoor dining area,
conjuring a classic safari ambiance.
Each of the spacious and luxuriously
furnished tents has a private deck
overlooking the vast game-filled
plains of the Masai Mara, and
service is rendered by a personal
butler who attends to your every
need.
Cottars Camp
Cottar's Camp is situated in an
extensive and exclusive concession
between the Masai Mara und der
Serengeti. This area has been
untouched by any kind of tourism or
development and offers the
discerning guest a guarantee of
privacy. The camp accommodates up to
twelve guests in authentic white
canvas tents which are spacious and
luxuriously furnished with original
safari antiques from the 1920's; all
tents have a private en suite
dressing rooms and bathrooms with
old-fashioned showers and flushing
toilets, a main bedroom and an
outdoor veranda with panoramic
views. The camp transports the guest
back to the original spirit and
essence of 'safari' - an era of
romance, professional guiding,
adventure and elegance."
Dorobo Bush Camp
Dorobo Bush Camp is located on
private Maasai land in a secluded
setting outside the Mara Game
Reserve. The camp's common areas
include a mess tent, a common shower
and an eco-toilet. Accommodation is
offered in six basic tents pitched
in the open bush where animals can
freely walk through as there is no
fence around the camp. At night the
campfire under the starlit sky sets
the ambience for interaction with
your Maasai hosts who gladly share
stories about their life in the
wild. One clear highlight of the
camp are the morning bush walks to
the nearby hill from where you can
enjoy the stunning 360 degree view
of the entire Mara plains as well as
the harmonious humming and grunting
of the accompanying Maasai guides.
Duma Safari Camp
Duma Camp is located in the heart of
Maasai country, bordering Kenya’s
great Masai Mara Game Reserve. It is
a traditional safari camp in true
‘Out of Africa’ style – and with ten
beds one of the smallest upscale
camp in the Mara. It is ideal for
those guests who enjoy the privacy,
personal attention and an
informaland homely atmosphere. Duma
is an ideal base from which to enjoy
the spectacle of the annual
wildebeest migration from Serengeti
in Tanzania to Masai Mara. It is
while in Masai Mara that the
migration is at its most
concentrated. The central dining
area is under canvas and offers a
view over the open plains a
waterhole and salt lick. Weather
permitting, dinners are often served
al fresco under a canopy of stars,
next to an open fire. The camp is
unfenced but Maasai askaris guard
the perimeter against possible
dangerous game that could wander
through. Enjoy game drives, guided
walks, bird watching, and cultural
visits to a Maasai village. The
weekly cattle market at Aitong is
well worth a visit as Maasai from
all over the area congregate to
trade cattle, and market goods.
Elephant Pepper Camp
Elephant Pepper Camp is tucked away
right on the Northern Edge of the
Maasai Mara reserve within the
protected Koiyaki wilderness area
and looks out over the Mara Plains
which support a vast concentration
of game all year round. In order to
preserve the special area the camp
is dismantled for three months of
the year. This camp with only eight
tents maintains the atmosphere of
the traditional mobile safari. Each
spacious en suite canvas tent
nestles under a grove of giant Ebony
and Elephant Pepper trees. Meals are
offered in candle light and family
style. A barbecue by the campfire,
dinner in the mess tent, or a bush
breakfast on the open plains are
some of the lasting memories to take
home.
Entim Camp
Entim Camp is an exclusive tented
camp accommodating just 10 guests in
utmost comfort. Each of the luxury
en-suite tents has been individually
decorated to provide the ideal blend
of colour, texture and ambience. The
camp offers an intimate setting of
an African night with flickering
candles, a glass of wine and a
spectacular view. The dining area
provides a romantic background for
delightful gourmet food.
Alternatively guests can choose to
dine privately on their own verandah
whilst enjoying the personal service
of the local staff.
Fig Tree Camp
Fig Tree Camp is situated along the
Talek River on the northern border
of the Masai Mara game reserve.
While it caters mainly for large
groups and therefore offers less
personalized service, its central
location makes all areas of the park
accessible during game drives. It
has two bars, a main dinning room,
an open-air dining area, a tree
house coffee deck, a video room and
a swimming pool. Accommodation is
provided in 38 tents and 22 cabins."
Governors Private Camp
Governors Private Camp is ideal for
those who seek exclusivity in their
own private camp. Guests are
accomodated in eight luxurious tents
with handmade furniture. The camp
can only be booked by one family or
group at a time which means that
they have a beautiful bend of the
Mara River entirely to themselves,
in a spot where animals come to
drink, hippos laze in the shallows,
and elephants bring their calves for
a playful dip. The forest around the
camp is home to many beautiful
birds, from rare trogans and turacos
to nesting hornbills. Personal
attention is the hallmark of a stay
here. The camp manager is also your
host and is on hand to see to all
your desires and answer all your
questions.
Il Moran Camp
With the atmosphere of the original
hunting camps and hidden deep in the
forest, Il Moran's ten tents line
the winding banks of the Mara River.
The spacious tents all have a very
private location and a large veranda
from which you may see furtive
bushbacks and dozing crocodiles on
the banks, as well as families of
hippos in the shallows. They’re
designed so you can take dinner in
private at your tent if you wish, or
just relax and enjoy the sights and
sounds. Birds and butterflies
abound, elephants wander through the
camp, at night leopards call nearby.
At the end of the day, guests can
enjoy a hot bath in the luxurious
ensuite bathrooms, then sink into a
huge knotted olive-wood bed in
preparation for another day of
excitement and pleasure.
Ilkeliani Camp
Ilkeliani is a permanent tented camp
located by the Talek River in the
Masai Mara. It features 17 tents
with verandas that are well spaced
from each other to ensure privacy.
The tents are quite dark as they are
set under the shade of indigenous
trees on the edge of the Talek River
looking onto the Masai Mara plains.
All tents are ensuite with flush
toilets and hot water showers.
Karen Blixen Camp
Karen Blixen Camp is situated on the
northwestern border of the famed
Masai Mara Reserve on a 66 acres
concession of private land leased
from a Masai landlord. Set on the
bank of the Mara River, the location
is spectacular, with the great Mara
plains behind the camp and the
impressive escarpment and Mara River
in front. The camp comprises 22
spacious tents set on large mahogany
platforms – each with a veranda from
which one can enjoy an afternoon
siesta taking in the wonderful
surroundings. The tents are
furnished with comfortable furniture
for the ultimate camping luxury. 19
tents are placed along the
riverbank, whilst 3 units are
situated on raised platforms
offering incredible views of the
area. Each of the tents has private
toilet and shower. Camp facilities
also include a restaurant, a bar and
a swimming pool, as well as wellness
treatments are offered by the
resident masseuse. Being situated in
one of the most densely populated
wildlife areas in the world, game
viewing is never a disappointment. A
night drive allows you to discover
nocturnally active species.
Kicheche
Kicheche is a classic bush camp
hidden in a grove of wild olive and
croton trees in the northern Koiyaki
Lemek region of the Masai Mara
Reserve. Unfenced and secluded, the
camp impinges so little on the
natural inhabitants of the Masai
Mara reserve that animals wander
through the grounds at any time. To
ensure an intimate feel, a maximum
of 22 guests are accomodated in the
camp's 11 spacious ensuite tents.
The majority of the tents are in
secluded positions overlooking the
plains and nearby hills, while
others are closer together for
families or friends. The camp offers
a friendly and relaxing stay, with
the hosts providing very personal
attention to each guest.
Kichwa Tembo
Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp lies deep
in a monkey-rich forest on the
exclusive western side of the Masai
Mara on a private concession leased
from Maasai which is much less
crowded than the eastern part of the
Reserve. It has an excellent
year-round concentration of animals
and lies directly in the path of
Africa’s spectacular Great Migration
of hundreds of thousands of
wildebeest and zebra.
The camp features forty tents which
appear to be a bit aged but offer
sweeping views of the rolling Mara
plains. The main thatched guest
areas include a bar and sitting
area, indoor and outdoor dining
areas and a swimming pool which is
perfect for laid-back game viewing
whilst cooling off.
Kilima Camp
Kilima Camp is a private tented Camp
bordering the Maasai Mara
Conservation area. It offers a true
African adventure in style and
comfort. Game viewing, whether by
car or on foot, around the Camp is
superb all year round. The camp
consists of twelve tents and is
located on top of the Siria
escarpment with a phenomenal view of
the Mara River. Each tent has its
own verandah and en-suite bathroom.
Enjoy the stunning view over the
Mara plain and river from the
comfort of yout own terrasse. The
bathrooms are fitted with flush
toilets and a safari shower with hot
water. The spacious, central dining
tent is Kilima Camp's meeting place
where guests gather to eat, drink,
talk, play games, read, or just
enjoy the view. The experienced chef
provides excellent international
cuisine, supplemented by a selection
of fine wines. Dinner is served
under canvas in the dining area or
under the stars, weather permitting.
Before and after dinner, guests can
relax by the campfire or at the bush
bar and listen to the magical sounds
of the African bush.
Leleshwa Camp
Leleshwa Camp is situated on Siana
Conservation Area, half an hour
drive outside of the Masai Mara Game
Reserve and, therefore, guests are
not bound by reserve rules and can
experience bush walks and night game
drives. The camp consists of 7
well-appointed tents with en-suite
bathrooms of flushing toilets and
hot showers. Each tent has either 2
single or 1 king-sized bed with soft
duvet bedding and, if required, an
extra canvas cot bed can be provided
for children. The large tents are
insect-proof and pleasantly
furnished with thoughtful touches
for your comfort. Outside at night,
hurricane lamps bathe the camp in a
soft, warm light and Maasai warriors
are on patrol and escort you to and
from your tent. The camp offers a
pleasant variety of food that the
chef prepares from his simple safari
kitchen. Attached to the large
dining tent is a comfortable lounge
area, which houses the bar and a
small library where you can relax
and read about the fascinating
wildlife you have seen. Every night
the roaring campfire is lit by the
mess tent, and you can relax under
the expansive African night sky and
let the sounds of the bush wash over
you.
Little Governors Camp
Getting to the intimate and secluded
Little Governors Camp is an
adventure in itself. You first have
to cross the Mara River by boat,
then walk a short distance beneath
the canopy of indegenous forest
trees. The camp has just 17 tents
tucked around a large watering hole
where animal and bird life abound.
From every verandah the view changes
constantly as different animals come
to drink or graze. Beyond, the
changing colours of the Olololo
Ridge melt into the vast African
sky. All tents are comfortable,
tastefully furnished and lit with
gas and kerosene lanterns or candles
providing the old safari feel.
Dinner is served in a communal
setting, allowing for ""the good
natured rivalry of who saw what"".
As dusk falls, the flickering lights
in the forest coupled with the
Camp's exquisite and romantic
setting cast a spell over all who
visit.
Main Governors Camp
Governors Camp nestles in the forest
on a site which was originally
reserved exclusively for the
colonial Governors of Kenya a
century ago. Half of its 38 tents
look out over the rolling golden
grasslands of Africa's great plains,
with views of herds of elephants,
zebras and gazelles; the rest line
the banks of the Mara River. From
their private verandas guests can
enjoy the wild splendours of Africa
with animals grazing nearby and
cheetahs hunting and share the
authentic traditional safari
atmosphere and dramatic landscape
that magnetised adventurers across
the world.
Mara Bush Camp
This is an intimate semi-permanent
camp discreetly ‘tucked away’ in a
riverine forest on the banks of the
seasonal Olare Orok River, in the
path of the annual migration. It is
a great choice is for the guest who
appreciates simplicity and privacy
away from mass tourism and wants to
enjoy an authentic ‘safari’
experience rather than a large,
crowded lodge with swimming pool &
entertainment. Mara Bush Camp offers
personalized services while
providing all amenities to make
guests feel at home. After an
exhilarating day out in the bush,
get back to your luxurious walk–in
tent with a spacious verandah
overlooking the Olare Orok and its
numerous hippos. Guests sleep under
canvas in the wild. All 10 river
front tents have been placed far
enough apart to guarantee complete
tranquility and privacy. All the
river facing tents are equipped with
comfortable four-poster bed with a
mosquito net, en-suite flush toilet
and sink unit in the bathroom with
running water, hot bucket shower,
clothes rack and storage chest,
writing desk and verandah furniture.
A fully equipped ‘Mess tent’ is
situated close by, where all meals
are served. Adjoining, is a
luxurious and comfortable ‘Lounge
Tent’, where you can meet up with
other guests to exchange safari
experiences and highlights of the
day or read a book from the library.
A ‘Sundowner cocktail’ will help you
unwind in front of a cozy campfire
under the African stars with all its
sounds of nature. All meals at the
camp are freshly prepared by the
camp's head chef, offering buffet
lunches and set a’ la carte dinners.
Mara Bush Camp is not fenced,
therefore Maasai warriors look out
for your safety while you are
sleeping.
Mara Explorer
Mara Explorer is a luxury tented
camp set on a thickly forested bend
of the Talek River in the heart of
the Masai Mara Reserve. It enjoys
prime views of the wildebeest
migration between June and
September, and rewarding game
viewing for the rest of the year. It
features a canvas covered dining
area which looks out over the river
close to the camp entrance, a bar
with splendid river views, a
well-stocked library and a lounge
area with luxurious sofas which is
an ideal place to read or share the
day's experiences with other guests.
The camp's traditional safari
ambience is enhanced by the decor
comprising old African artefacts and
memorabilia from the early days of
the African safari. Accommodation is
offered in ten luxurious and
well-spaced tents. Each tent has its
own deck overlooking the Talek River
as well as an outdoor Victorian
bathtub from which guests can watch
the animals drinking in privacy.
Mara Intrepids
Mara Intrepids Camp sits above a
bend in the Talek River, at the
confluence of the Maasai Mara’s four
game-viewing areas and enjoys one of
the most spectacular locations in
the entire Mara ecosystem. Intrepids
is a short drive from the Mara
River, where up to one-and-a-half
million wildebeestes and zebras make
their perilous migration crossing
between July and October.
Guests are accomodated in 30 tents
which are spread over a large
riverside site. An Intrepids safari
offers three daily game drives with
experienced guides, educational
outings and trips to Maasai
villages.
Mara Porini Camp
Mara Porini Camp is set under the
shade of Acacia trees along the
banks of the permanent Laetoli River
in the Maasai owned Olkinyei
Conservancy in Masai Mara. It
features a wide variety of animals
including a large resident pride of
lions.
Accommodation is offered in six
spacious tents with ensuite
bathrooms. A maximum of twelve
guests are hosted at a time to
ensure that their experience in this
pristine wilderness is not only
authentic, but also exclusive,
private and intimate.
Mara Safari Club
The Mara Safari Club is set by the
Mara River at the foot of the Aitong
Hills bordering the Masai Mara Game
Reserve. Surrounded on three sides
by the Mara River, all forty tents
have their own private river
frontage with a viewing deck from
where guests can enjoy watching
hippos climb the banks as well as
listen to them as "talk" to each
other. Occasionally elephants wander
past to drink the water and during
the migration period large herds of
wildebeest can be sometimes observed
attempting to cross the river
nearby. The main building with
lounge, bar and dining room also
provides a superb vantage point to
view the resident hippos and the
amazing riverine birdlife.
Mara Serena
The Mara Serena Safari Lodge
commands a prime location for the
annual migration of the wildebeest
and zebra. It is located high on
hill above the Mara River with
spectacular 360 degrees view of of
the Mara Plains. The lodge's
architectural style is inspired by
the traditional Maasai cultural
motif of a cluster of domed,
mud-coloured huts encircled by a
“Boma” of brushwood and complimented
by ethnic decor which features a
unique selection of Maasai art
creating the look and feel of a
traditional bush encampment. The
relatively small rooms each have
their own balcony and splendid views
of the sweeping grasslands teeming
with wildlife. The lodge has a
fantastic pool with equally
breathtaking views of the entire
Mara Game Reserve.
Mara Siria Camp
Mara Siria Camp has a great location
on the Siria Escarpment with
dramatic views over the Masai Mara
plains the the Mara River. The
breakfast spot right on the
ridgeline has been chosen in a way
that the morning omelette is likely
to get cold as guests will forget
trivialities such the food while
they admire the ""world"" below.
Eight spacious and comfortable tents
with en-suite bathroom and their own
private veranda are spread across
the escarpment line. The camp is
solar powered and well integrated
into the existing landscape without
harming the beauty of the natural
wilderness.
The camp's location just outside the
reserve boundary opens up the
opportunity for bush walks with
local Maasai naturalists, either to
a spectacular sundowner point or
down to the Mara River and
Hippopool."
Naibor Camp
With its combination of contemporary
style, comfort and muted bush
colours, Naibor Camp comes close to
what might be called a designer
camp. The seven spacious tents with
king-size beds of fig-wood and large
sofas with soft cushions have an
aura of rustic simplicity mixed with
elegance and pose a challenge even
to the most extreme wildlife
enthusiast as they are a
difficult-to-escape temptation to
just relax. The main 'mess' tent
overlooking the Talek River and
beyond has cushions, rugs and sofas
making it an ideal venue for
relaxation and drinks before dinner.
The camp is set in a grove of
riverine forest on the banks of the
Talek River within the Masai Mara
Game Reserve in southern Kenya. From
this strategic location close to all
the major Mara River crossing
points, guests can view the
wildebeest migration as well as a
wide array of game all year round.
Game viewing can also be done on
foot or on mountain bikes outside
the reserve.
Offbeat Mara Camp
Offbeat Mara Camp is set away from
other lodges north of the Masai Mara
Game Reserve on the Olare Orok group
ranch on the banks of a small
seasonal river. In the cosy lounge
guests can read, relax or just
savour the sights and sounds of
nature in this wild and serene
setting. Accommodation is offered in
seven solar lit tents with ensuite
bucket showers, flush toilets, wash
basins and huge cedar beds. While
the camp does not offer the same
breathtaking views as other camps,
it has excellent service, very
knowledgeable guides and a very
personal and homely ambiance as it
is personally hosted by the owner,
Piers Winkworth who works closely
with the local Maasai community. A
bush walk to the neigbouring village
and a visit to the weekly Maasai
market in Aitong offer close and
authentic cultural encounters that
hard to find in other camps and
lodges in the Masai Mara.
Ol Seki
Ol Seki is a luxury tented camp set
on a rocky hill overlooking the
plains in the Koyiaki conservancy
north of the Mara. The comfortable
and cosy lounge tent with a small
library and a deck has spectacular
panoramic views of the plains while
the dining tent has a charming 'hat
tree' where guests can borrow hats
for outdoor use. Guests sleep in six
round, spacious, airy and cosy
light-coloured tents which are
elevated from the ground on a wooden
platform. They are tastefully
decorated to complement the wild and
pristine setting and have a very
relaxed and inviting ambience. They
all have decks from which guests can
enjoy deeply moving sunrise or
sunset moments that will last in
their memories. Occasional leopard
sightings on the rocks just below
the camp, elegant candle lit
dinners, romantic dining on the tent
terrasse and a resident masseuse
make Ol Seki a delight for all
senses.
Olonana
Olonana is a small luxury camp
harmonically nestled on the banks of
the Mara River. Accommodation is
offered in twelve double tents, all
placed to offer maximum privacy and
with a verandah where you can watch
hippos frolicking just before
heading out for their nightly
grazing. Its beautifully decorated
and furnished lounge area with a
wooden outdoor deck overlooks the
Mara River and is the setting for
memorable open air breakfasts,
lunches and dinners. In addition to
big game viewing in the Masai Mara
Reserve, visitors are offered a
glimpse of the day-to-day lives of
the Maasai people in the adjacent
Maasai village.
Olpidir Safari Camp
Located at the Siria escarpment
looking down on the Mara River, the
camp is only ten minutes away from
the Musiara Gate of Masai Mara.
Guests greatly enjoy the natural,
rustic style perfectly blended with
African vastness. Expect soothing
tranquility during your adventurous
stay in the African bush, exciting
game drives and superb game viewing
around the camp and in the nearby
Masai Mara. The camp consists of
five simple tents that are furnished
with typical safari beds and thick,
comfortable mattresses. There are
communal toilets and bush showers
utilizing warm water. Dinner is
served in the open, spacious mess
tent where not only mouthwatering
food is prevalent, but also stunning
views of the Masai Mara and the
wildlife at the Mara River. In order
to preserve the authentic, rustic
bush atmosphere, There is no
generator and electricity in the
camp. After all, candle-lit bush
dinners taste by far the best!
Porini Lion Camp
Porini Lion Camp is located in the
private Olare Orok game conservancy
which borders the Masai Mara Game
Reserve and is home to an abundance
of animals including the Big Cats
for which the Mara is famous. The
small, intimate tented Camp is
situated along the banks of the
Ntiakatiak River, a seasonal river
with some permanent hippo pools near
the camp. With 10 luxury guest tents
the camp is very exclusive and gives
guests a real bush experience. The
tents are very spacious and have
private verandahs along the length
of the tent, providing a secluded
and private 'space' for you to relax
and enjoy the beauty of this African
wilderness. Each tent has an
en-suite bathroom with a flush
toilet and hot shower. Guests enjoy
morning, evening and night game
drives in custom built 4x4's,
sundowners at scenic viewing points,
from where you can enjoy a drink
watching the sun set over the Mara
and escorted bush walks with Maasai
warriors and safari guide, where one
can get an insight into the Maasai
people, their way of life and also
learn more about the animals, birds
and plants of the Mara.
Rekero Tented Camp
Rekero Tented Camp is a secluded
haven of peace and tranquillity,
providing a friendly welcome and an
impressively personal service.
Gerard and Rainee Beaton and Jackson
Ole Looseyia, a Maasai from the
local area and their safari crew
cater for your needs. The standard
of guiding is exceptional, as the
professional Maasai safari guides
seek isolated spots for game drives
and ensure that guests experience
wildlife without another soul to be
seen. The camp’s wild riverside
setting is at the heart of the Masai
Mara National Reserve. Being so
close to both the Mara and Talek
rivers, the camp provides guests
with an ideal opportunity to view
the annual migration crossings from
the comfort of their armchair. Each
of the seven tents has an
uninterrupted view of the Talek
riverbank, ensuite bathrooms with
bucket showers and flush toilets and
has small and tasteful finishing
touches such as flowers, glass
bottles for water and magazines.
Dining is generally open air and in
dinner party style with guests
exchanging experiences and sights
over a glass of wine. The chefs
produce appetising 'farmhouse' meals
while special dietary requirements
can be catered for. The camp is
unfenced meaning that during the
night elephants, hippos and even
leopards are known to wander amongst
the tents.
Richard’s Camp
The Royal Mara is located on the
Mara River in Western Koyiaki
Conservation Area, near the
Koyiaki-Kichwa Migration River
Crossing 15 miles from the other
well known crossing point at Mara
Serena. All six luxury guest suites
are built on raised wooden decks
with mahogany floors, hand-carved
furniture and private balconies
overlooking the Mara River and her
resident hippos. Several lion prides
are within proximity of the lodge
and in contrast to the National
Reserve area, the Koyiaki
conservation area allows game walks
and night game drives enabling the
property to offer guests a more
fulfilling safari experience.
Sala's Camp
Sala’s Camp is located on the
convergence of two rivers close to
the Tanzanian border. This secluded
spot offers tranquillity and
tremendous views along the Sand
River towards the Serengeti. The
camp is owner hosted and offers a
very homely ambiance, impeccable
service and fantastic food. During
the Great Wildebeest Migration
between July and October, Sala’s
Camp is ideally located since many
of the animals move back and forth
from the Serengeti in search of lush
grasslands in the Mara. The views
from the camp during this time is
exceptional as the migrating
wildebeest and zebra pass just
opposite the camp on the other side
of the Sand River. The mess tent
extends onto an inviting 'lounging'
area with an Arabian feel which is
ideal for reading, relaxing and
unwinding while enjoying the views.
Accommodation is in seven spacious
tents which have ensuite bathrooms
with flush toilets and bucket
showers. As an alternative to game
drives, the more active guests can
join in the daily afternoon
volleyball match with the camp staff
in the Sand River's dry bed - a more
pristine and wild setting for a
volleyball game is simply
unimaginable.
Saruni Camp
Saruni is a deluxe and intimate
lodge set in a private conservation
area outside the Masai Mara National
Reserve. With accomodation for only
12 guests in six spectacular
cottages, it offers an experience
which combines the elegance and
safety of a permanent accommodation
with the thrill of sleeping in close
contact with nature and Saruni's
equally luxurious fly camp Campi ya
Tembo will bring you even closer to
nature. The rooms are furnished with
colonial antiques, Persian carpets
and African art and the atmosphere
at the camp is informal but elegant.
Riccardo Origgio, owner and host of
Saruni, is a fascinating person to
exchange views of the world with and
will make you feel like you are at
home. A sundowner on the top of a
windy hill while watching the
brilliant hues of sunset and
overlooking the entire Masai Mara
provides you with divine memories.
Or how about a candlelit dinner in
the privacy of your verandah as a
full moon lends a soft glow to the
‘cough cough’ of a leopard barely 10
feet away? Truly the stuff dreams
are made of.
Serian Camp
Serian is one of the few real bush
homes in the Masai Mara, with a
fantastic location blending into the
surrounding vegetation in a secluded
valley overlooking the Mara River.
The eight marquee tents are set in
the shade of large trees and are
furnished in rich warm textures
mixed with natural hard woods.
Comfortable colonial style
furnishing with a little eastern
“spice”. They are constructed of
canvas and supported by hardwood
poles with the interior walls and
ceilings made from Kenyan canvas.
The verandah is furnished with two
comfortable chairs and a small table
for drinks. The “bedroom” area is
fitted with a king-size bed flanked
by twin writing desks. The
“bathroom” area includes a shower,
soaking tub and separate toilet. The
dressing area contains the cupboards
with hanging space and twin basins.
Hanging swathes of cotton and canvas
walls provide complete privacy.
Furniture is minimal and
unobtrusive, mimicking the
traditional safari camps of an
earlier time. The experience at
Serian is focused on viewing
wildlife. In addition to game drives
in the Masai Mara, the highly
qualified guides of the camp lead
game walks in the various group
ranches bordering the Masai Mara.
Enjoy intimate outdoor dining after
an adventurous day in this amazing
part of Africa.
Tipilikwani Camp
Tipilikwani Camp is set on the banks
of the Talak river, right on the
border to the Masia Game Reserve.
The twenty tents are mounted on
raised wooden decked platforms, all
furnished in rustic African style.
All tents are en-suite with hot and
cold powered showers and all the
amenities that one would expect of
five star luxury accommodation. All
the tents face the river and look
onto the savanna expanses of the
Mara allowing for beautiful sunrises
and sunsets. Included in the twenty
tents are two family tents each
comprising of two interconnecting
en-suite tents, sharing a beautiful
deck area. The size of the rooms
allows for the twin tents to
comprise of two queen size beds and
the double rooms, a king size bed
and divan. All rooms can also easily
accommodate another single bed and
baby cot. The lounge and dining
areas are built structures with
views of the Savanna plains and sit
right above the Talak river. They
have huge couches surrounding the
bar area and tranquil lighting
setting the ambiance. Night game
drives, visits to Masai village and
guided nature and bird walks are the
activities which the camp can offer.
The menu overseen by the gourmet
chef offers a la carte menus where
guests will indulge in an active
breakfast, a three lunch and a five
course dinner.
Masai Mara
Wildebeest Migration | Maasai Mara safari |
Kenya:
wildebeest
Migration
Mara River
crossing.
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Easily known as the
"Coca-Cola route", Marangu is by far the
most popular route to the summit of
Kilimanjaro. This could partly be as a
result of the fact that the Marangu is the
least expensive route, but more so, perhaps
the fact that it is possible to do the
Marangu route in 6 days, thereby getting to
the summit one day earlier than on the
Machame route. It is the easiest route to
Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak but least scenic.
More details.... |
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Sometimes called the
Whisky Route. This is a popular route up
steep paths through magnificent forests to
gain a ridge leading through the moorland
zones to the Shira Plateau. It then
traverses beneath the glaciated precipices
of the Southern Ice fields to join the
Barafu Route to the summit. This is probably
the most beautiful route up Kilimanjaro. All
your group Mount
Kilimanjaro equipment and supplies are portered and
a cook prepares all your meals. Where
accommodation on the
Marangu route is in
huts, the Machame route offers strictly
tents only. This makes Machame route better
suited to the slightly more adventurous
hiker, rewarding him/her with a scenic splendor
such as not seen on the Marangu route. The
Machame route is normally completed in a
minimum of 6 days.
More details....
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Rongai Route: This
remote and less frequently used route is the
second easiest route to Kilimanjaro. The
approach to the mountain is from the
less-forested north side and the descent is
by the Marangu Route. There are several
variations, the one described below is a
longer route taking in Mawenzi Tarn.
We offer this Rongai Route climb for both
groups; joining group existing Kilimanjaro
climb or private Kilimanjaro treks for 2009
and 2010.
Read
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The
Umbwe
route is one of the shortest routes to the
Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach. It
is probably the most scenic, non-technical
route on Kilimanjaro. It is quite taxing,
primarily due to the relatively fast ascent
to higher altitude, but the rewards are
plentiful.
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Lemosho Route This is the longest and most
remote route to Kilimanjaro. After beautiful
forests and moorlands it crosses the Shira
Plateau to meet up with the Machame Route.
Groups may be accompanied on the first day
by an armed ranger as the forests around the
Lemosho Glades are rich in buffalo, elephant
and other game.
Read
more........... |
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At 5,199 m, Mount
Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa. It
is an ancient extinct volcano, during whose
period of activity (3.1–2.6 million years ago)
it is thought to have risen to 6,500 m. Mount
Kenya is one of the most impressive landscapes
in East Africa. There are three main climbing
routes, which penetrate the forest and the
moorland - Naromoru, Sirimon and Chogoria.
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Lemosho Route This is
the longest and most remote route to
Kilimanjaro. After beautiful forests and
moorlands it crosses the Shira Plateau to
meet up with the Machame Route. Groups may
be accompanied on the first day by an armed
ranger as the forests around the Lemosho
Glades are rich in buffalo, elephant and
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Kilimanjaro Climb Expedition tips and advice
to follow:
>Find a good tour operator: You can
only climb Kilimanjaro with an organized
trek and along established routes, so you
have to go with an expert operator. The
Kilimanjaro climbing operators vary from
excellent to downright negligent so be
selective and try not to be too cheap if you
want to have the most enjoyable climb
experience. you can count on
Kilimanjaroclimbexpedition.com
>Book in advance: If you intend to
climb Kilimanjaro, be sure to book in
advance. This will enable you to go in high
season, which is January-March and
September-October. High Season is a good
time to go simply because the weather
condition is safest for Kilimanjaro
climbing.
>Get fit & prepare well: Break in
your hiking boots and walk the dog; climb
stairs; hike some hills with a pack on.
Walking is the best way to prepare yourself
for the long hike up Kilimanjaro to ensure
you have right fitness. You need to build up
stamina. It's a good idea to get a basic
medical check-up before you go. You don't
want to be dealing with an ingrown toenail
or worse at 18,000 feet. Travel insurance
that includes medical is also a must.
>Pack well: Pack light but make
sure you have everything you need to deal
with altitude and variation in temperatures.
Don't worry about carrying it yourself since
a porter/s will take up to 30lbs (15kg) of
your personal gear in a duffel bag. You can
rent some equipment and clothing locally but
you may end up with teeny sleeping bags and
a fraying pink jacket. See our recommended
climb checklist.
>Choose your convenient route: Make
sure your hike is at least 6-7 days to
provide the much needed Kilimanjaro
commodity, acclimatization if you want to
have maximum success. Any shorter and you
will not be properly acclimatized. Routes
vary in degree of difficulty, traffic and
scenic beauty. The least difficult routes
are Marangu and Rongai; the more difficult
routes are Machame, Umbwe and Lemosho. The
longer routes may have more difficult hiking
but you'll be more acclimatized and your
chances of reaching the summit are therefore
higher. The longer western routes also allow
you to start your summit day at a more
reasonable hour. For details on each route
see route descriptions.
>Dealing with altitude: Pace
yourself; you will hear the Swahili phrase
"pole pole" - slowly slowly, heed it well.
Drink lots of water about 4-5 liters a day
is recommended. Luckily the mountain streams
after the first day are good to drink and
naturally cooled. Walk high and sleep low.
Take a walk to a higher elevation during the
day and come back down to sleep. Consult a
doctor before you go and get some medication
to prevent altitude sickness. Also make sure
your guides are carrying the proper medical
equipment such as oxygen, radios and a
recompression bag to deal with altitude
sickness if it arises.
>Reaching the summit: The hardest
part of the trek. Pace yourself, be
determined, and you will reach the Uhuru
peak. The final ascent is usually timed so
you can watch the sunrise over the crater
and distant plains. Enjoy the view take a
few photos and get back down before you get
too affected by the high altitude. Take a
well earned nap.
Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania stands at
19,340 feet (5895 m) and is Africa's tallest
mountain. The attraction of hiking up Mount
Kilimanjaro is that it's not a technical
climb so no equipment such as oxygen and
ropes are necessary. But it's no walk in the
park. As you you'll see from the images
below, trekkers make their way through 5
climatic zones before reaching the summit.
Weather changes from moment to moment and
the high altitude wreaks havoc on the body
and mind...read more.
East Africa travel destinations that we
include in our catalogue include Kenya,
Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda. East Africa is
home to the safari, since this is where the
African savannah is at its best and the
plains are filled with wildlife. Hikers also
come to East Africa to enjoy the mountains,
including Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania),
Mount Kenya, Mount Longonot and Mount Meru.
The East African coastline has some of the
best beaches in the world, including the
famous spice island of Zanzibar.
Kenya Safari:
Kenya is the original safari country where
the 'safari' (Swahili for travel) begun. In
Kenya, you can mix the idyllic experience of
a tropical beach vacation on the warm Indian
Ocean with an East African wild animal
safari expedition. Combining the two makes
for a unique holiday. Part of your vacation
is filled with excitement as you observe
African wildlife at close quarters, while
part is spent relaxing and soaking up the
sun on a sandy beach.
A beach and safari break in Kenya is an
exotic getaway from the daily routines of
city life. It also makes for the ideal
honeymoon for newly weds, with time to relax
as well as a touch of adventure.
East Africa, including Kenya, does not yet
have a high profile as a holiday destination
in America, but is growing in reputation as
a unique vacation experience. Europeans, and
the British in particular, have less
distance to travel to Africa, and have been
been the mainstay of Kenyan tourism,
attracted by the unique mix of the tropical
beach and African safari vacation. Luxury
vacations have become more affordable as
European currencies have strengthened,
prompting investment in Kenyan tourist
facilities.
Tanzania Safari:
Safari in Tanzania is a worth undertaking.
We are the original safari company offering
quality Tanzania safaris to Ngorongoro
Crater, animal migration tours in Serengeti,
Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
honeymoon vacations in Zanzibar Island,
family holidays in spice island and luxury
beach resorts of pemba island. A variety of
accommodation in Tanzania is offered from
lodge, hotels and safari tented camps...Read
more.
The best time to go for an African safari is
when the animals are easy to find and in
dense numbers. Deciding when to go on safari
depends on what country you would like to
visit and when you are able to plan your
trip. Seasons differ in East Africa so you
can really plan a great safari for almost
every month of the year, if you are flexible
about where you want to go to.....:
Kenya:
The best time to go on safari in Kenya and
experience a huge density and diversity of
wildlife is when the annual migration of
millions of wildebeest, zebra and gnu's
descend on the Mara plains with predators
close behind. The best time to see this
wildlife spectacle is from July to October.
Other parks in Kenya are also excellent and
the best time to visit these would be during
the dry seasons - January through March and
July through October.
With the scarcity of water during the dry
seasons, the animals tend to gather in more
concentrated numbers around permanent water
holes, rivers and lakes, so they are easier
to find. The vegetation is also less lush
which simply means that viewing animals from
a distance is easier.
Tanzania:
If you want to see the Great Migration
unfold, head to Tanzania's northern parks;
the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The best time
to witness the annual migration is probably
February - March when the wildebeest and
zebra have their young. Not only can you
enjoy seeing baby animals, but the predators
are at the highest number too. Because the
herds also concentrate in the south of the
Serengeti, it's easy to plan your wildlife
viewing in that area and find a safari
company that offers lodging there.
June to November is Tanzania's dry season
and is the best time to visit all the parks
(and you can always hop over to Kenya's
Masai Mara to witness the Great Wildebeest
Migration during this time). Tanzania's
Southern Parks are perfect to visit during
this time since the animals tend to
congregate around permanent water and it
isn't so hot and humid.
All of Tanzania's parks suffer from the
rains which generally fall from March to May
in the North, and from November to May in
the South and West. Roads get washed out and
given the sheer size of Tanzania's parks,
the animals tend to spread out, and this
makes wildlife viewing less satisfying (if
you're looking for sheer numbers of
animals).
December through March can get quite hot and
humid, especially in Western and Southern
Tanzania which makes it a little
uncomfortable to spend a lot of time in the
bush.
If you want to add a hike up Mount
Kilimanjaro to your safari, the best time to
hike is January - March and September -
October.
See our other top Kenya
Tanzania safari itineraries for African
Safaris, Tanzania tours and
Kenya safari
holidays - Budget
African tours and
holidays:
Amboseli Budget Safari (3Days/2 Nights)
This 3 days safari takes you to Amboseli
National Park, at the foot Of Africa’s
highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro,
standing at 5895m. Amboseli is one of the
most popular of Kenya’s national parks.
Large herds of elephants roam the park.
Elegant Masai tribesmen will be seen around
the park. Accommodation is basic camping.
Hemingway Trail Budget Safari
This is a 3 day basic camping tour to the
world-famous Maasai Mara. You travel by
road. This tour is for the adventure lovers
willing to enjoy the wild at its best.
Kifaru Budget Safari
This is a 4 day budget safari that will take
you to Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru National
park. Maasai Mara is one of East Africa's
best known game viewing areas and it adjoins
the Serengeti Park of Tanzania. A land of
undulating hills and rolling grasslands
supporting a huge animal population.
Mara Budget Safari (3 nights/2 nights)
This safari takes you to the Maasai Mara,
Kenya most famous game sanctuary Over 450
species of animals have been recorded here.
The Mara plains are filled with migrating
wildebeests and zebra, there are also
resident wildlife year round. Accommodation
is based on basic camping.
Samburu National Reserve days Camping
(3Days/2nights)
This 3 day budget safari takes you to one of
the Kenya’s best reserve on the North. Known
for its abundant game - lion, leopard,
elephant and the beisa oryx - Samburu
National Reserve is also home to the
semi-nomadic tribe of the Samburu
people.
Turkana Truck Safari via Lake Baringo
This rugged 1,800 km expedition in a
purposely- built truck takes you into the
heart of the northern part of Kenya. You
will traverse along some of the Africa’s
worst roads, see beautiful mountain forest
surrounded on all sides by hot dusty
deserts, eventually arriving at the Jade Sea
(Lake Turkana). You will see a great variety
of tribes and cross the Chalbi Desert if
dry.
Budget Accomodation - Hotels and Camps Amboseli, Taita Hills and Tsavo National
Parks Hotel, Camps and Lodges in Amboseli and
Tsavo National parks
Bush Homes and Luxury Camps
A collection of small, intimate and
exclusive properties in Kenya
Nairobi Budget Hotels:
Nairobi City Hotels
Booking:
Nairobi cheap and best hotels for light
travel requirements:
Nairobi Budget Hotels, Nairobi cheap hotels,
Kenya Nairobi discount hotels - Kenya hotels
, Nairobi city budget hotels and Nairobi
luxury hotels booking and reservation. Also
included are Mombasa beach resorts, Lamu,
Watamu, Diani, Arusha, Malindi and Zanzibar
beach hotels - Mombasa South Coast
hotels and
resorts located in the south
coast of Kenya. Include Shimba Hills, Tiwi,
Diani, and Wasini Island.
Book your Nairobi
hotel online. Great rates Save up to
25% on your
reservation! Book Mombasa
budget accommodation, Mombasa cheap resort
accommodation, Kenya Mombasa cheap hotels.
Samburu, Laikipia and Northern Kenya
Lodges, Resorts and Camps located in
Laikipia, Samburu, Shaba, Masai Mara and
Archer's Post
Tanzania Hotels, Resorts and Safari Lodges
and Camps located in the town of Arusha, Moshi, Mt
Kilimanjaro Ngorongoro and surrounding areas.
Tanzania, Zanzibar and Dar-es-salaam hotels
and resorts Coastal resorts and beach holiday stay specialised hotels
See our directories for Camps Lodges Tented
and Tree Top Hotels
Kenya Car Rentals
Kenya car
hire,
car hire in Kenya - Kenya car rentals; car
hire Kenya: We offer you a wide range of selection for
car rental including 4x4
4WD car hire Kenya. Whether you want an economy,
luxury or utility vehicle, we shall be by
your side with help. You decide if you want
to drive yourself or if you need a chauffer.
Discount online Kenya car rental reservation
and information. Best value offers for wide
range of vehicles. Kenya car rental, cheap
car rental Kenya, rent car Kenya, hire car
Kenya, online car rental Kenya, Nairobi car
rental, Mombasa rental car.
Scheduled and Charter Flights
We offer local flight itineraries
schedule and book on discounted
prices! Whether you are looking for
scheduled or charters, we aim to find the
fastest and most suitable solution for your
flying needs within East
Africa.
Kilimanjaro Climb Expeditions, Climbing
Mount Kilimanjaro, an expert comprehensive
guide to trekking snow capped Mount
Kilimanjaro. Mount Kilimanjaro hiking is
done inside Kilimanjaro National Park in
Tanzania and is the highest mountain in
Africa and African
holiday: Masai
Mara trip: Umbwe
route: Kenya
holiday: Kenya offers
excellent value for safaris. Its wildlife
parks are world famous for the quality of
game viewing and the variety of wildlife
preserved through a highly reputed system of
scientific game management. Affordable Kenya
and Tanzania safaris stay in standard camps
and lodges, using Kenya's excellent road
system for transfers between parks. |
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African Safari
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Safari tour operators
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Kenya safari
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Tanzania safari
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Masai
Mara - Serengeti wildebeest migration:
Wildebeest migration to and back from Serengeti into
the Maasai Mara is the single most popular wildlife
spectacle in Kenya. The wildebeest migration is such
a phenomenon it involves movement of over 1 million
animals crossing plains and rivers in the Mara
migration. River crossings are the most spectacular
where the wildebeest of
Mara jump into rivers full of crocodiles and surging
currents. The wildebeest is feted as the clown of
the Savannah. Also known as a gnu, the animal has a
structure resembling a young horse with a heavily
built frontal shoulders and chest and a slender
posterior. Its legs are so slender it’s intriguing
how it supports the proportionately larger body
frame. The ‘clown’ title results from its unusual
behavior considered to other bovids, for example a
gnu herd will usually scatter in different
directions when attacked by a lion.
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Lamu Town began life as a 14th century Swahili
settlement. But the island has seen many
visitors and influences, including Portuguese
explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs.
Despite all these influences, Lamu developed its
own particular culture which has ultimately
endured. The island is a beautiful place of
rolling dunes and endless beaches, where tiny
villages nestle among coconut and mango
plantations and lateen sailed dhows ply the
waters. Dense mangrove forests fringe the
mainland and the inland sides of the island. The
beach on Lamu Island is 12km of empty sands
backing on to an ocean protected by a reef...Read
more..
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Mount Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya plays a crucial role in the life of
the country being Kenya's single most important
permanent watershed and her largest forest
reserve. The fertile soils of its lower slopes
also sustain the growth of the nation's richest
farmlands whilst much of its vegetation is
globally unique. In recent years, however, the
Mountain has suffered greatly from the adverse
effects of deforestation, resulting in large
tracts of its lower slopes being entirely
denuded of trees and occupied by squatters. And,
although much of the vast forest cover remains
intact, the growing demand for timber (Kenya's
staple construction and fuel source) threatens
to lead to even more serious deforestation and
subsequent soil erosion.....Read
more... |
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Bwindi , Uganda
Formerly known as the
'Impenetrable Forest',
this park is home to one of the largest
surviving numbers of the mountain Gorilla in
Africa and a superb location for a gorilla
safari trek.. more |
Zanzibar
Also known as the spice
islands, these exotic islands are one of the
best honeymoon destinations and also make for a
relaxing African beach holiday ...
more
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Shaba National Reserve
It is impossible to talk about the Shaba National
Reserve without mentioning Samburu National Reserve,
and Buffalo Springs National Reserve, because they
are all intertwined, and they form a trio of unusual
and attractive game sanctuaries, and all neighbours.
Shaba is a relatively small National Park being a
little over 239 sq. kms, and it is only 70 kms north
of Mount Kenya, at an altitude varying between
700-1500metres.
Visitors go to Parks to see wildlife, and the Shaba
Game is outstanding. You have a very good chance of
seeing Giraffe, Cheetah, leopard, and lion. You can
add to this gazelle, oryx, zebra, and Gerenuk, but
of course it is the predators that are most sought
after....Read more..
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