Mount Kenya Climbing & Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing

Masai Mara migration of 2009 has Begun

2009-07-06T21:08:00.001-07:00

Masai Mara wildebeest migration 2009

One of the highlights of the annual migration, the arrival of the wildebeest into the Masai Mara, has commenced. The first arrivals from the Serengeti have started crossing the crocodile infested waters of the Mara River. This is what most people consider to be the quintessential “annual wildebeest migration” and this year looks likely to be a spectacular event. Only the first few thousand, of an estimated 2 million plains game, have arrived in the Masai Mara, but their arrival is a great source of excitement amongst safari enthusiasts.

There is plenty of water and the Mara and Talek Rivers are flowing strongly. There has been some rain in the last few days. New fresh shoots of grass are appearing where rangers burnt the long grass over the last few weeks. In other parts of the reserve the grass is still long making game viewing a bit more challenging. This will soon change as the wildebeest, zebra and gazelle churn up the soil with their hooves.

Camps in the Mara and adjacent ranches are reporting strong interest in this year’s migration, but most camps still have limited availability. This is unusual for the high season as most camps are normally fully booked 6 months to a year in advance. The current lower tourist numbers is probably due to the bad publicity associated with recent elections in Kenya, the increase in the price of international flights and the downturn in the world economy. This is good news for those visitors that do get see the crossing this year as there may be less people around. But, it is still early enough in the season for this to change.

Even though the big news is that the migration has started entering the Masai Mara, it is important to note that the entire migration is spread over a large area covering the Serengeti and Masai Mara. The tail end of the migrating herds is around Ikorongo in the western corridor of the Serengeti, large populations can be found in the northern Serengeti, while some herds are heading in easterly direction towards Lobo. For the next couple of months the wildlife will move back and forth across the northern Serengeti and Masai Mara, constantly criss-crossing the rivers and Kenya-Tanzania border.

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania: Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

2008-09-15T21:34:00.000-07:00

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in the world that you can simply walk up! None of the routes require mountaineering skills, specialized equipment, or even previous climbing experience. Still, hiking to the Roof of Africa is physically and mentally demanding and should not be underestimated. Altitude sickness can set in above 3,000 metres and there’s no prior indication as to who might suffer from it. It’s important to work closely with your guide and to listen to his advice. Porters carry gear and supplies up and down the mountain and cook all meals.

Kilimanjaro can be climbed at any time of the year, but the rainy seasons (April-June; November-December) make the forest more slippery and the summit might be blocked by snow. Be prepared for climatic extremes, from rain in the forest, intense sun in the alpine desert and freezing temperatures at the summit. It’s essential to have warm clothes and a good sleeping bag.

At the summit, exhaustion fades away; as the sun rises above Kilimanjaro’s crater rim you know you have finally met this exhilarating African challenge.

Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro
Any visitor to this region of East Africa cannot fail to be in awe of this mountain, standing majestically on the border of 2 great countries. You have probably seen all the photos and dreamed of it, so now experience the thrill of actually climbing to the pinnacle of Africa's highest mountain. Climb Kilimanjaro, and see the world!

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Marangu Route Affectionately 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.

Machame Route 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 Icefields to join the Barafu Route to the summit.

Umbwe Route 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.

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.

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.

Shira Route - The Shira route, approaches Kilimanjaro’s summit from the west and crosses the caldera of Shira Volcano before heading beneath the southern ice fields of Kibo. The route is seldom used by other trekkers and so your initial two days on the mountain are less crowded than on most other routes.

When to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is very near the Equator, just 280 km south to be exact, but that doesn’t mean it has the same weather patterns every day of the year. As is true throughout tropical areas, there are wet seasons and dry seasons even if the air temperature itself doesn’t swing wildly. And of course the temperature at the base and the temperature at the summit can be drastically different as well.

You can climb Kilimanjaro all year round, but some seasons are much better than others. It’s not just an issue of whether to bring an umbrella or not - going during the rainy season can be dangerous and decrease your chances of reaching the summit.

The short answer
The weather on Kilimanjaro is always a bit unpredictable, but generally speaking the best months to climb are mid-December through February. The second-best choice is from the middle of June through September. Due to the traffic issue discussed below, the ideal combination of predictably good conditions and moderate crowds is mid February or late September, early October.

A bit more detail
In addition to the weather at the base, and on different parts of the mountain itself, you’ve also got another thing to consider: traffic. That’s right, this is a popular climb and during certain parts of the year you’ll be anything but alone up there, and during other times you might see very few, if any, other groups. The peak seasons for high traffic are around the Christmas holidays and during summer in the northern hemisphere. Obviously this is because that’s when most people have enough time off to climb, so if you can work your schedule around this a bit you can increase your chances of a great experience.

The worst times to go climbing Kilimanjaro
From the middle of March through the middle of June the rain comes down incessantly and sometimes mixes with snow. Climbing in these conditions can be somewhat miserable, slow, dangerous, and will decrease the likelihood of reaching the summit.

From around the middle of November through the middle of December is similar, making it another very challenging time to climb.

It’s always busy on New Years, Christmas and full moons.

A few more notes on weather
Kilimanjaro is one of the tallest mountains on earth and the weather can change from perfect to terrible and back again within a short time, even during the best seasons. Even during the dry seasons it’s advisable to bring rain gear.
The mountain is often covered in clouds during the middle of the day, and yet clear in the morning and at sunset.

It’s not uncommon for the first 2 or 3 days of your climb to be in the rain, and then you’ll be above the clouds the rest of the way.

It’s possible for a group on a 7-day climb to literally be in rain the entire week. Be prepared with rain gear and boots that can handle mud. Trekking poles are also recommended. It helps you in the mud.

Many climbers - and even guides - bring an umbrella on the trip. It’s quite nice to have.

How To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania: Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania: Africa's highest mountain, snow-capped.

Safari In Kenya and Trips Kenya Safari Tour

2008-08-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

The “journey to Africa” or “Expedition” are two of the meanings of the word Safari which comes from the Swahili origin. Ernest Hemingway who wrote the book “The snows of Kilimanjaro” was inspired by the same mystery, romance and adventure found inscribed in the very name of the word Safari.

Africa is a land of magic which calls the past, the present and the future enabling you to experience it too. The land is so mysterious that it touches the heart and allows you to acquire new perspective of the normal cycle of life.

Kenya is a country that is richly blessed with beautiful coastlines and nice tropical beaches which can turn out to be quite tempting to many and few people can match the huge scale and drama which are offered generously to those that visit this land. There are also other African countries out there that also have extraordinary wildlife and natural attractions.

A Kenyan Safari allows you to discover the spectacular scenic views and prolific wildlife, which are the prime attraction of Kenyai. It also takes us from off the beaten track hideaways to more popular tourist destinations. Some of Africa’s best known national parks like Lake Nakuru National Park, Nairobi National Park, Amboseli National park, Tsavo, Maasai Mara, Sanburu, Meru National park, Mt. Kenya National Park, Aberdares National Park, Lake Bogoria and Lake Baringo

The annual wildestbeest migration in Kenya is considered as one of the new seven wonders of the world and because of this, it makes Kenya one of the prime safari destinations in the world. During the migration, Kenya becomes home to millions of wildestbeest and zebra which migrate from Serengeti in Tanzania to look for greener pastures.

The migration period is the best time to view the wildlife in the Mara and in particular the wilderbeests. In the Mara, you get to experince and see and amazing spectacle as you witness millions of wildestbeests running across the Mara plains in one big line cutting from one end of the horizon to the other.

Traveling through Kenya is like going back in time where one experiences a cultural mix. One gets to experience and see first hand the mud walled villages of the Masaai community, take a walk with Samburu warriors and go fishing with the Lous who are renowned fisherman of Lake Victoria. You also get to meet the Swahili sailors at the coast. Your safari to Kenya will let you experience a living and breathing history of diverse cultures.

Lamu Island Safaris - Lamu in Kenya

2008-08-23T01:45:00.000-07:00

Lamu Island Safaris - Lamu in Kenya

Lamu Island is part of the Lamu Archipelago off Kenya's coast. The archipelago consists of seven islands and a multitude of islets separated from the mainland at its narrowest part by just a few meters wide. To sail the archipelago is to discover beautiful beaches, glorious seascapes, scuba refuges, fishing and ancient ruins. Lamu is a place like no other, a peaceful tropical island where life is lived at its own relaxed rhythm. It is also a place whose history is as mysterious and fascinating as the winding streets of its medieval town.

How to get there
Lamu Island can be reached by air from Malindi, Mombasa, Nairobi and Diani Beach. Flights to Lamu Island land on Manda Island which is just across the channel from Lamu. Mountkenyaclimbing.com can arrange flights and transfers to Lamu Island's hotels and lodges.

Lamu Island
Introduction
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.

Lamu Activities
The pristine beaches are not the only attraction to Lamu. Lamu Town is a delightful anachronism carrying on its daily life as it has done for centuries. As Kenya's oldest living town, Lamu has retained all the charm and character built up over centuries. There are still many remnants of the elegant, refined life led by the richer folk in past eras. Electricity only arrived a few decades ago, and there are still almost no motor vehicles. Life moves at a pace of a monkey or a dhow. Spices and the smell of grilled foot scent the air around the markets, museums, fort and ancient house. The winding streets of the towns are best explored on foot or by donkey, as you shop for local woodcarvings and batik. Or you can sit at an open-air restaurant by the water and watching the world go by is an irresistible past-time. Shela is the other main town on Lamu Island, and is a 10 minute boat ride from Lamu. Although it lacks the vibrancy of Lamu Town, it is smaller, quieter and more elegant than Lamu - distinctively more upmarket. Manda Island itself is also fascinating. The huge baobab trees dominate the skyline and the ruins of Takwa can be found after negotiating through thick mangrove swamps. Furthest north of the Lamu archipelago, is the remote paradise island of Kiwayu. Its beaches are believed to be amongst the best in Kenya.

Seasons in Lamu
The best time to visit Lamu Island is from January through March when the snorkeling is ideal. Although it is clear and dry in August and September, the ocean is rough and visibility low after the long rains. In March the humidity begins to rise while most tourists have all but disappeared. June and July can be quite windy, which is good for sailing. The long rains come late March to May and the short rains in October and November.

PEPONI HOTEL
Lamu Island
Kenya
Introduction
Peponi Hotel is situated on the exotic island of Lamu, in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya. The hotel is located upon a headland of Lamu Island and offers easy access to miles of sandy beach as well as being within walking distance of Shela village.

Peponi Hotel Description
Peponi Hotel was never planned, it simply happened. Starting as the Korschen family home, over the past 30 years Peponi Hotel has grown into a hotel offering attentive service, delicious meals and endless relaxation. Peponi Hotel has a total of 24 rooms which are divided into standard and superior rooms. Five of the rooms are built on the beach with private veranda areas which overlook the sea. The other rooms have a combination of ocean and garden views. All rooms have mosquito nets, overhead fans, showers, fresh flowers and personal safes. Meals are served under the colourful bougainvillea on the terrace which overlooks the ocean and movement of dhows and local fisherman. The hotel bar is a favourite watering hole for guests and Shela village inhabitants alike. Peponi Hotel also boats a swimming pool, under the baobab trees overlooking the ocean.

Activities• Dhow cruises
• Trips to a range of sites on the archipelago
• Snorkelling
• Diving
• Waterskiing
• Windsurfing
• Deep sea fishing
• Scuba diving

How To Get There
Mountkenyaclimbing.com can arrange scheduled flights and transfers to Peponi Hotel.

Seasons
Closed May and June

MANDA BAY HOTEL
Lamu Island
Kenya
Introduction
Manda Bay is a small boutique resort on the northern tip of Manda Island, one of the many unspoilt idyllic islands within the romantic Lamu archipelago. The resort is surrounded by indigenous woodland, empty beaches and magnificent coral gardens. Though close to Lamu Island, Manta Bay is far away from the bustle to enjoy some quiet seclusion and privacy.

Manda Bay Hotel Description
Manda Bay has 16 cottages are constructed from local materials and designed in keeping with the local landscape. Five of the rooms are set along the seafront with the other rooms set in-between and slightly behind. All cottages have overhead fans, large flowing mosquito nets, en-suite bathrooms and their own private verandas overlooking the Indian Ocean. Meal times are relaxed and casual, served in the dining room, on the beach, on the 60 foot dhow or your private veranda. There is a marine flavour to the cuisine served at Manda Bay. Freshly caught tuna, Mangrove crab and prawns are a Manda Bay delicacy. Manda Bay also actively promotes efforts to preserve the Lamu archipelago and supports development projects for the local community. By setting up ad-hoc funds, it has been possible to provide assistance for the construction of schools, medical clinics and other facilities.

Activities• Windsurfing
• Laser Sailing
• Mangrove trips
• Bird walks/drives
• Games room with pool table, darts and table tennis
• Excursions to Lamu by boat
• Cultural visits
• Scenic flights
• Swimming pool
• Cultural visits
• Spa treatments and massage

How To Get There
Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions can arrange flights and transfers to Manda Bay. To/From Nairobi: Manda has a private airstrip for private charters. Lamu airstrip is a 25 minute boat trip away, and serviced daily with scheduled flights from Nairobi.

Seasons
Closed from 15th April till 14th July

Shaba National Reserve - Sarova Shaba Lodge

2008-08-12T22:15:00.001-07:00

Shaba National Reserve - Sarova Shaba Lodge:

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.

Shaba National Reserve is named after a huge cone of volcanic rock which dominates the whole area.

The Ewaso Ngiro River is the northern border of the park, and as the progress of the river is slow and wide as the river bends and straightens there is good viewing of the wildlife here, and there is a lot more water than the neighbouring reserves

It would be fair to say that visitors to Shaba don’t just come for the wildlife, this place in a real experience from the difficulties of access, only possible through Archer’s Post, and the near impossibility of the tracks in the wet season. Shaba is a total escape from 21st century life.

In addition to the previously mentioned wildlife species, you will have a chance of seeing the following at one of the seventeen springs where the animals congregate during the dry season.

Reticulated giraffe, Somalia ostrich, Baboon, Olive, Buffalo, African Bush Baby, Bushbuck, Caracal, Dik-dik, Kirk's Duiker, Bush, Eland, Elephant, Grant's Giraffe, Reticulated Klipspringer, Mongoose, Monkey, Beisa, Warthog, Waterbuck

It was at Shaba that Joy Adamson the author was murdered nearly thirty years ago, and for that reason alone a pilgrimage to Joy Adamson’s monument is a must do on any Kenya Safari Holiday to Shaba National Reserve.

Check offers and Kenya safari trips for and Samburu Safaris in Kenya from Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions.

Salt Lick Safari Lodge in Taita Hills, Kenya

2008-08-12T22:02:00.000-07:00

Salt Lick Safari Lodge in Taita Hills, Kenya

A Kenya Safari Holiday is unlikely to take you to more than one or two National parks, but you should check out Salt Lick Lodge at the Tsavo National Park if that is one National Park you are thinking of visiting on your Safari in Kenya.

Salt Lick Safari Lodge is right in the middle of a private twenty eight thousand square acres game sanctuary between the West and east parts of the Tsavo National Park.

It is a five hour drive from Nairobi, two hours from Mombasa, and an hour from Voi railway station

The luxurious Salt Lick Lodge is built on top of stilts overlooking a waterhole, and is linked by suspended walkways, so you can look down on the elephants wandering around underneath your feet. The name as you may imagine has been taken from a natural salt lick, which is a place that animals need to replenish their body salt levels, so it is a popular place!

The private sanctuary surrounding the lodge means there is a lot of game to view.
The accommodation on this part of your Kenya safari Holiday is of deluxe standard with extremely high levels of service, and you will find it very comfortable indeed. All of the 96 bedrooms have views of the waterholes and the game sanctuary, and are well equipped with modern facilities, including private bath, shower, and balcony.

The main restaurant is the Bura restaurant, and you will find that on this part of your Kenya Safari Tour the food is of a very good standard. You can organise champagne breakfasts, barbecues, and ‘Ou of Africa’ dinners.

Obviously to be successful a safari in Kenya needs wildlife, preferably large game to view, and Salt Lick Lodge is ideally placed to see almost as much as you might want, especially if like many other tourists you have taken a few days away from your hotel by the Indian Ocean.

You can expect to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, and buffalo, amongst the fifty or so mammals who have made their home in this part of the Tsavo National Park, plus over 300 bird species. There is no off road driving aloud which has been a great help in the preservation and healthy growth of the species who live here.

It is important to be able to relax as well, and there is an outdoor pool so you can do just that. When you go on safari for the first time you might not realise that game drives take place in the early morning, and late afternoon, and at night, although other times as well, but there is quite a lot of time to kill between drives. This is why a swimming pool is so important.

It is also good to be able to be close to the game without travelling, or walking and feeling at risk, and Salt Lick Safari Lodge has taken care of that as well by building a secure ground level bunker with steel bars so you can be close up and get some great photographs.

If a Kenya Safari Holiday is something new to you, and you are a bit apprehensive about a camp with no fences then Salt Lick Safari Lodge at Tsavo National Park will ensure a good start to your Safari Kenya adventure.

Mount Kenya: Mount Kenya National Park - Mount Kenya Climbing, Trekking Mt Kenya hiking

2008-08-10T03:28:00.000-07:00

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.

Over half of Africa's forests have been destroyed, in this century alone, by means as varied as illegal logging, charcoal burning, agricultural encroachment, 'land grabbing' and the unscheduled de-gazetting of supposedly protected forest areas. Indeed recent estimates state that only 2.9% of Kenya's original forest cover still exists. There is also evidence that not only is the water-catchment area suffering, but also that the montane glaciers have shrunk so rapidly over the last 20 years that some of them have completely disappeared. Finally the popularity of trekking and hiking holidays on the mountain is placing enormous pressure on the natural environment thanks to the attendant ills of tourist refuse, forest fires, feeding wildlife, off-road driving and erosion of climbing routes.

The People of Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya represents the ancestral home and heartland of the Bantu-speaking Kikuyu people, Kenya's largest ethnic group. Heavily influential throughout Kenya's history, the Kikuyu were instrumental in leading the fight for independence, provided the country with its first President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, and have forced the pace of all subsequent political developments. The original Kikuyu are thought to have migrated from the east and north-east of the continent in the 16th century. Because land was the dominant factor in their social, political, religious and economic life, however, this brought them into conflict first with the Maasai and then with the European settlers, who seized large tracts of their territory. That said, the Kikuyu have adapted to the challenges of Western culture more successfully than any other tribe and are enlightened businessmen and successful and progressive farmers who grow coffee, tea, pyrethrum horticultural crops, vegetables and flowers for the export market.

Traditionally the Kikuyu have always believed that Ngai's (God's) most frequent resting place is on 'Kirinyaga' or Mount Kenya and although Christianity has altered these beliefs there are still many churchgoers who maintain that their ancestors control their destiny thanks to their closeness to 'Ngai'. Today the Kikuyu remain at the forefront of Kenyan development as both successful business people and formidable politicians.

Climate July to August marks the Kenyan winter. Broadly speaking, January-February is dry. March-May is wet. June-September is dry. October-December is wet, the rains passing in time for Christmas.

Climbing Mount Kenya
An extinct volcano, some three and a half million years old with permanently snow-covered, ice-shattered peaks, Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa after Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro. There are four main routes of ascent, the Naro Moru trail, the Burguret and Sirimon trails and the Chogoria trail and, whilst the icy peaks of Batian (5199m) and Nelion (5,189m) are accessible only to experienced mountaineers, Point Lenana (4,985m) can be conquered by anyone who is reasonably fit. In fact, the task has been made considerably easier thanks to Serena Hotels and the Kenya Wildlife Service who have recently cooperated to pioneer a new climbing route, which offers maximum adventure, panorama and enjoyment and minimal hardship.

Depending upon the weather conditions and the fitness level of the climbing party, the trip takes approximately 3 days in ascent and 2 days in descent and is led by a team of experienced mountaineers and naturalists who remain in constant radio contact with the Lodge. Mountain accommodation is provided in the form of ready-pitched camps of comfortable and fully-equipped high-altitude tents (or alternatively, bunk-houses) whilst the food, provided daily by the hotel, will include tasty packed lunches, hot drinks, fortifying snacks and individually presented supper menus. Upon arrival at Lenana Point guests will also be met with hot drinks, biscuits and brandy before being transported back down the mountain to a celebratory dinner at the hotel. There's also just lazing by the pool, taking in some sun and looking out over the aquamarine reaches of the Indian Ocean.

Mt Kenya Forest
Mt Kenya, Africa's second highest peak is regarded as the realm of Ngai, god of the local Kikuyu people. Traditionally, all Kikuyu homes were built to face this sacred peak. They call it Kirinyaga, or place of light.

The mountain itself is an awe-inspiring sight with its ragged peaks, and equatorial snow. But the Mountain is surrounded by a belt of verdant forest that is an equally fascinating destination.

While the 5199 metre summit is a difficult technical climb, the lesser peak of Point Lenana (4985m) can be easily reached by any fit trekker. This trek takes between 3 and 5 days, through a fascinating world of forests, wildlife, unique montane vegetation including podocarpus and grounsel, and finally one of the worlds rarest sights, equatorial snow.

For those who don't want to climb the Mountain the cool highlands that surround its base are well worth a visit. The forests are ideal for game viewing, and there are crystal clear mountain streams that are the perfect place to land a Trout.....

Part of the mountain's fascination is the variation in flora, including Giant Groundsel and Lobelia, and fauna as the altitude changes. The lower slopes are covered with dry upland forest, the true montaine (mountain) forest begins at 2,000m is mainly cedar and podo. At 2,500m begins a dense belt of bamboo forest which merges into the upperforest of smaller trees, interspersed with glades. In this area the trees are festooned with high altitude lichen.

These forest belts are host to many different animals and plants with at least 11 unique species. Game to view includes: Black and White Colobus and Sykes Monkeys, bushbuck, Rock and rock Hyrax, Greater galago, white tailed, buffalo, elephant and lower down Olive Baboon, waterbuck, Black Rhino, black fronted duikers, leopard, giant forest hog, genet cat, bush pig and hyena. More elusive is the bongo, a rare type of forest antelope.

A number of other rarer species can be found here: Suni Antelope, Mt. Kenya Mole Rat, skinks (lizard), Montane Viper and a variety of owls. Occasional sightings have been recorded of albino zebra.

Birds are not abundant in the forest. But you can find Crowned hawk eagel and the Jackson's francolin. Rarely you can find the Abyssinian long-eared owl. Birds seen form the lodge include; Green ibis, African black duck, Ayres' hawk eagle, Rufous-breasted and great sparrow hawks, Scaly francolin, Silvery-cheeked hornbill, Hartlaubs turaco, red headed parrot, bronze-naped pigeon, Mackinder's eagle owl, Rupells robin chat.

There are two species of giant Lobelias; the narrow, featherly-leafed lobelia telekii and the broad-leafed lobelia keniensis which are a favourite of sunbirds for their half hidden blossoms or the thin shelled snails that make their home there. Plants also include crocus-like flower; Romuela keniensis, two terrestrial orchids - a Disa and a Habenaria, and an orange flowered gladiolus,Gladiolus Watsonioides.

The high altitude heath at the top (3,000 - 3,5000m) is generally open, dotted with shrubs: African Sage, protea and helichrysum. The peak (above 3,500m) is moorland, with little game other than high altitude zebra and eland, common in the northern moorland.

Mount Kenya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Where to Stay While Visiting Mount Kenya:
Mount Kenya Safari Club, Mt Kenya:
High on the slopes of Africa's second highest mountain, The Mount Kenya Safari Club straddles the Equator in a glory of luxurious cottages and elegant buildings set amid manicured lawns and decorative ponds. Ever since the club was founded in 1959 by the late film star William Holden, eccentric American Ray Ryan, and Swiss financier Carl Hirschmann, it has been a Mecca for the international jet set - its list of members reads like a Who's Who of royalty, aristocracy, and the rich and famous.

Whether visiting Kenya at a leisurely pace or stopping simply for lunch, the Mount Kenya Safari Club maintains an immutably majestic presence and is a touching reminder of the vision of its creators. Mount Kenya Safari Club is a two and a half hour drive from Nairobi. Alternatively, it is a fifty-minute flight to Nanyuki airstrip and a fifteen-minute transfer drive to the club.

Mount Kenya Safari Club's history is as colorful and exciting as its members, guests and visitors from the pioneers who made the homestead and the farm, their own, through its conversion into an upcountry hotel, to the uproarious narrative of the three hell-raisers who bought it on a whim and launched a legend.

Mount Kenya Safari Club has a variety of rooms located in the 100-acres of beautifully manicured lawns, which vary according to their location. One can visit the types of bedrooms on a sweeping circle of the magnificent grounds: the Club Rooms in the main building, to the Garden Cottages by the tennis courts, around the William Holden Cottages, by the Riverside Cottages along the River Likii, returning back up the hill via the Luxury Villas to the main building. The club has a total of 114 ensuite rooms, each room, with its own club-like charm, has a log fireplace, which is lit every evening.

Luxury Villas: "Batian" with 2 twin-bedded rooms and 1 double bedded room. "Lenana" with 1 twin-bedded room and 1 double-bedded room. "River House" with 1 suite with twin beds and sitting room, 1 double-bedded room, 1 twin-bedded room. Each of the villas has large sitting rooms with fireplace, private verandah overlooking Mount Kenya, dining area and kitchen. The mini-bars can be stocked on request.

William Holden Cottages: There are 12, each with 1 twin-bedded and 1 double-bedded room, a large sitting room in the center, Roman-style bathrooms and fireplace. The mini-bar can be stocked on request.

Garden Suites: Mount Kenya Safari Club has 8 garden suites, with 1 twin-bedded room, large sitting room and fireplace.

Club Building: The Club Building comprises: 6 suites with large sitting room, fireplace, a bar, 1 double-bedded room and private verandah looking out to Mount Kenya - the mini-bars are stocked on request - and 22 Club Rooms, 21 of which are twin-bedded and 1 double-bedded, each with a fireplace.

Riverside Cottages: Mount Kenya Safari Club has 13 riverside cottages, each unit comprising of 1 suite and 2 studio suites - this means there are 39 rooms here in total. The suites have a twin-bedded room, with fireplace, one sitting room, a fully stocked mini-bar, private verandah overlooking the river and Mount Kenya, and a large bathroom with sunken bath. The Studio Suites each have double bed and fireplace, private verandah overlooking the river and Mount Kenya, sitting area, a large bathroom with sunken bath.

The amenities in each room are furnished with rugs, bedside lamps, dressing tables and built-in wardrobes, and a fireplace. In every bathroom there is a 115 / 240v shaving socket. The bathrooms are provided with Mount Kenya Safari Club shampoo, body lotion, bath and shower gel and bathrobes. Each bathroom has overhead showers and bathtubs, flush toilets, washbasin, freshly laundered towels, hot and cold running water, boiled water and glasses

Conferences: A choice of five conference and meeting rooms are available, which seat from 15 to 120 people. The two larger conference facilities open out onto the Club's lawns. Each room has a full range of audio-visual presentation equipment.

Club Restaurant: Overlooking a courtyard, the Club Restaurant serves a buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and 9-course dinner to guests. Each day of the week, except Monday, Mount Kenya Safari Club's Kirinyaga Resident Band entertains guests throughout dinner and afterwards provides dance music. The menu is a cosmopolitan combination of European, African and Asian dishes, made from the abundance of fresh Kenyan produce. A full vegetarian menu is available for all the meals. Seating Capacity is 180 people. Opening hours are: Breakfast 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m.; Lunch 12.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m.; Dinner 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.

Members Dining Room: Elegantly placed black and white photographs of celebrities who have been guests of the club cover the walls. Open for dinner only, Club Members can enjoy a superb dinner in delightful surroundings. Non-members can now enjoy dinner in the Members Dining Room at a supplementary charge. Dress is smart casual. The menu is a gourmet 9-course a la Carte, with a choice of 6 starters, 6 main courses and 6 desserts. Seating capacity is 70 people. Opening hours are 7.30 p.m. to 09.30 p.m..

A wealth of activities and facilities are available at the Mount Kenya Safari Club including: Swimming pool - Tennis court - Horse riding - Putting green - 9-hole golf course - Bowls - Croquet - Trout fishing - Art gallery - Health and beauty center - Club shops - Club chapel - Game viewing platform - Bush dinner on the banks of the River Likii - Maze. Enjoy your Kenya Safari and African Safari with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions, www.mountkenyaclimbing.com or contact info@mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Serena Mountain Lodge, Mount Kenya:
Hidden in a quiet forest glade within the Mount Kenya Forest, Mountain Lodge offers the ultimate window on wild Kenya Safari. From the privacy of your room, steady streams of shy and magnificent creatures are drawn to the ancient waterhole.

Located at 2194 meters on the slopes of Mount Kenya, Serena Mountain Lodge is surrounded by a dense rainforest that comes alive at dusk with myriad of sounds that make the African bush so special and exhilarating; and this is just a sample of what to expect on a Safari.

Just two and a half hours by car from Nairobi, this stunning area is towered over by the rocky peaks of Mount Kenya and prides itself in having one of the most consistent high records of big game 'visits' and sightings. Elephant, buffalo, rhino and waterbuck are regular sights in the evenings and by day, Kenya safari game drives.

The African safari hotel architecture in superb and has the following particular characteristics:

42 total guest rooms.
18 rooms with two single beds.
4 rooms with doubles beds.
2 rooms with single beds.

Guest amenities include:
Satellite TV.
Communication available via telephone, fax and radio.
Nurse on call 24 hours. Flying Doctors Service is also available.
Emergency Medivac to hospital from nearby airstrip.
Daily laundry/pressing service.
Shoe shining service.
Binoculars and hairdryers available at reception desk.
Central safety deposit service available, free-of-charge, at the reception desk.
Voltage is 240 V in rooms; shaver outlets have both 110 V and 240 V. Adaptors available at the reception desk

Serena Mountain Lodge is ideally situated as a base for guests who want to climb Mount Kenya. Hiking and walking tours can be arranged through Kenya.com for those who want to experience a part of Mount Kenya

At Serena Mountain Lodge, at any time of the day one can spot game in the specially constructed bunkers that are connected to the lodge by a short tunnel. Here one will get a spectacularly close to the animals that drink at the waterhole. A spacious verandah also overlooks the waterhole where there is never a dull moment. Enjoy your Kenya Safari and African Safari with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions, www.mountkenyaclimbing.com or contact info@mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Nairobi National Park - Nairobi National Park Tour, Tour Of Nairobi National Park

2008-08-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

Nairobi National Park - "The World's only wildlife capital, just 8 Km from Nairobi City Center."

Background Information:
It became Kenya's first national park when it was established in 1946. The 117 sq Km Nairobi National Park is unique by being the only protected area in the world with a variety of animals and birds close to a capital city. As expected, the park is a principal attraction for visitors to Nairobi.
The park also serves many residents and citizens living in the city The park has a diversity of environments with characteristic fauna and flora. Open grass plains with scattered acacia bush are predominant. The western side has a highland dry forest and a permanent river with a riverine forest in the south. In addition, there are stretches of broken bush country and deep, rocky valleys and gorges with scrub and long grass. Man-made dams have also added a further habitat, favourable to certain species of birds and other aquatic biota(life forms). The dams also attract water dependent herbivores during the dry season.

The park has a rich/diverse birdlife with 400 species recorded. However all species are not always present and some are seasonal. Northern migrants pass through the park primarily during late March through April.

Nairobi National Park is one of the most successful of Kenya's rhino sanctuaries that is already generating a stock for reintroduction in the species former range and other upcoming sanctuaries. Due to this success, it is one of the few parks where a visitor can be certain of seeing a black rhino in its natural habitat.

To the south of the park is the Athi-Kapiti Plains and Kitengela Migration and dispersal area. These are vital areas for herbivores dispersal during the rains and concentrate in the park in the dry season.

Major attractions:
Annual wildebeest and zebra migration in July/August
Black rhinoceros
Diverse birdlife
Large predators- lion, leopard, hyena and cheetah.
Aggregations of large herbivores- eland, buffalo, zebra and wildebeest
Ivory Burning Site Monument
Walking trails at hippo pools
Nairobi Safari Walk & the Orphanage.
Spacious accomodating picnic sites

How to get there:
Roads:
Located only about 7 km from the city centre, the park is easily accessible on tarmac roads, mainly through Langata Road.

Park Roads:
There is an adequate administration and viewing road network with satisfactory signage.

Park gates:
The park has seven gates, the main gate at KWS headquarters, East Gate, Cheetah Gate, Lang'ata Gate, Maasai Gate: Mbagathi and Banda Gate are service gates and therefore not used by tourists.

Facilities:
There are no accommodation facilities in the park. But a wide range of well developed accommodation facilities are available in the city. Further, there is also the Masai Safari Lodge near the park.

Picnic Sites:
Impala Observation Tower;
Ivory Burning Site;
King Fisher Gorge;
Leopard Cliffs;
Mokoiyet;
Hippo Pool;

Other attractions:
Lone Tree
Directors tree planting site
Nature Trails: The park has one nature trail at the Hippo Pool

Common Vegetation:
The vegetation is primarily dry savanna, open grass plains with scattered acacia bushes. The park also has a permanent river with a riverine forest.

The western upland areas has an upland dry forest with stands of Olea africana and Croton dichogamus/Brachylaena hutchinsii and calodendrum. The lower slopes are a grassland composed of such species as: Themeda, Cyprus, Digitaria, and Cynodon with scattered yellow-barked acacia, Acacia xanthophloea. In addition there are stretches of broken bush country and deep rocky valleys and gorges with scrub and long grass.

There is gallery forest in the valleys, predominantly Acacia spp., and Euphobia candelabrum. Other tree species include Apodytes dimidiata, Canthium schimperanum, Elaeodendron buchananii, Newtonia sp., Ficus eriocarpa, Aspilia mossambicensis, and Rhus natalensis.

Several plants growing on the rocky hillsides are unique to the Nairobi area including Euphobia brevitorta, Drimia calcarata, Murdannia clarkeana and the crassula species.

Nairobi National Park Tourism and education:
Nairobi National Park is the main tourist attraction for visitors to Nairobi. Visitor attractions include the park's black rhinoceros, diverse bird species, cheetah, hyena, leopard, and lion. Other attractions are the wildebeest and zebra migrations in July and August, the Ivory Burning Site Monument, and the Nairobi Safari Walk and animal orphanage.[3] Inhabitants of Nairobi visit the park and thousands of African children on school field trips visit the park each week.[16]

The park's Wildlife Conservation Education Centre has lectures and video shows about wildlife and guided tours of the park and animal orphanage. These tours are primarily, but not exclusively, to educate schools and local communities. There has been criticism about animals' housing, and they now have more spacious housing in a more natural environment. The Kenya Wildlife Service has created a Safari Walk that highlights the variety of plants and animals that are in Kenya, and how they affect Kenya's population.

For Nariobi National Park Tour and trips, check with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions and email for other Nairobi excursion trips and Kenya at info@mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Aberdare National Park, Kenya: African Safari Holiday

2008-08-06T05:38:00.000-07:00

Aberdare National Park, Kenya

The Aberdare is the established name of a mountain range, which thrusts directly north from Nairobi for more than 160 kilometers. The intrepid Scot Joseph Thomson, who explored the region, named the range after the President of the Royal Geographical Society 1883. The Kikuyu name Nyandarua is slowly gaining prominence. Part of the range is protected as the Aberdares National Park and encompasses all land over 3200 meters together with a projection due east known as The Salient, which reaches down to 2130 meters near Nyeri town. The park is a fairyland, awesome in its majesty and beauty.

Crossing the Aberdare Mountains is an unpredictable event since rain is both frequent and heavy. The highest point of the range is Ol Donyo Satima, which means the mountain of the young bull in Maa, the language of the Maasai, which reaches 3998 meters. There is a road that traverses the mountains from Naivasha to Nyeri, which can be handled by a sturdy car in good weather. At its maximum elevation the road passes through misty moorlands at about 3350 meters, where strange six meter tall mutants of alpine plants: groundsel, erica, hypericum, lobelia and sennecio - grow in profusion. Icy rivers plunge in glorious cascades and spectacular waterfalls. The salient, which thrusts a dense forest through rich farmland, is where both Treetops and the Ark are situated.

The Salient's origin lies in an elephant migration route between the two mountains. The forest is rich in wildlife; elephant and rhino, warthog, bush pig and giant forest hog, waterbuck, duiker, suni, dikdik, bongo and reedbuck are all to be seen. On our many return visits to the Ark, in June 2003 we had the opportunity to see a male and female rhino with ease from The Ark Lodge during the evening hours at the Aberdares National Park. In the canopy the black and white colobus monkey performs its aerial acrobatics and Sykes' monkey and the black faced vervet can also be found. The carnivores are represented by: lions, usually more hairy and spotted than on the plains, leopard and serval cat, the latter often seen on the moorlands and sometimes in its melanistic state.

Birds are not only dazzling but also plentiful. The crowned eagle (which eats monkeys) is everywhere and the forest echoes to the shrill cries of the Silvery-cheeked hornbill. The resplendent sunbirds are well represented, among them the brilliant metallic violet Tacazze, the emerald green Malachite Sunbird and on the moorlands the Scarlet tufted Malachite Sunbird, with its very long slender tail.

The number of visitors to the Aberdares National Park is high in the park rankings but this is because of the Ark and Treetops. The park itself is still very much under-visited despite its grandeur and its powerful vistas.

Accommodations:
Treetops Lodge
The famous Treetops Hotel started life in a very humble way. In 1932, its first visitors gingerly climbed the wild fig tree supporting the two-room tree house. By 1952, Treetops had expanded. Now a four-room construction. Treetops Lodge welcomed a young English girl, its most famous visitor. This young English girl climbed the tree as a princess one afternoon, to descend the following morning as Queen Elizabeth I I, her father, King George VI, had died during the night.

By now, Treetops reputation had spread far and wide; for the globetrotter, the rich, the famous, and the fashionable, no visit to Africa - Kenya was regarded complete without experiencing the Treetops adventure. Even today, with all the exciting safari lodges, and camps Kenya has to offer, 50 room Treetops heads the list for many of our customers. Treetops is sited in the heart of the dense lichen hung forest of the Aberdare National Park and overlooks two waterholes, and the magnificent snowy peaks of Mount Kenya.

For the safety and comfort of several observation lounges, guests can photograph at close quarters the territorial charge of short sighted rhino, a protective elephant matriarch chaperoning her calf, the graceful bounding of a bushbuck doe. A family of lions, have on more than one occasion, made a meal of some poor unfortunate warthog to the fascinated horror of Treetops dinners.
For those guests who value their sleep as much as the nocturnal entertainment, everyone is allocated a comfortable bed in either a single or twin room with plentiful shared bathroom facilities, or on request, suites with its own bathroom. If you wish to do your game viewing the 'lazy way', the professional hunter can wake you up each time one of the big five visits the tree house! Make sure you do not miss out an experience of a lifetime.

The Fairmont Ark Lodge:
Accommodation at The Ark Lodge is in 60 en-suite rooms and is set in the heart of the Aberdare National Park, The Ark is a unique tree lodge that overlooks a floodlit waterhole and a saltlick which attracts a host of wildlife. Elephant, Rhino, Leopard, Bushbuck and occasionally an elusive Bongo and giant forest Hog has been sighted.
Resembling and named after Noah's Ark, The Ark is designed with 'decks' from which numerous balconies and lounges provide superb vantage points for game viewing. A ground level bunker provides excellent photographic opportunities and takes you closer than you would believe possible to the animals.

Watch the constant comings and goings at the waterhole and salt lick. Elephants love the natural salt lick and get onto their knees to dig into the ground with their tusks. They then lick up the salty earth. This goes on for hours and they finally quench their thirst at the waterhole. Numerous other animals visit this busy meeting place all day and night so there is always something to see.

A buzzer system operates in each room to alert you when there is something very special to see such as a Leopard, who usually sneaks to the floodlit waterhole in the dead of night. It is of course up to you whether or not you get up!

Child Policy: Children under the age of 7 are not permitted at The Ark unless on special 'Children’s Nights'.

To take Aberdare safari and book yourself into the Treetops Lodge or Ark Lodge in Aberdares, check offers with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions or contact: info@mountkenyaclimbing.com

Masai Mara - Serengeti wildebeest migration: African Wildlife Safari

2008-08-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Masai Mara - Serengeti wildebeest migration: African Wildlife Safari

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.

The Wildebeest Migration:
What gives the gnu its worldwide repute is not its body structure however, but the sheer numbers and spectre created by its migration. The animals migrate between the Serengeti and Mara Savannahs in Tanzania and Kenya respectively, in search of grass and water. It is estimated that over 1 million of these animals are on the move during the annual migration between June and October. The numbers are so high that miles upon miles of grassland is blanketed by a mass of moving gnu. They simply stretch from one horizon to the next; of the conveniently flat and treeless Maasai Mara Savannah. It is a sight to behold when on your wildlife safari. The wildebeest migration phenomenon is so huge that satellites miles away in space are able to capture the surge as a black moving mass on the plains of East Africa. Now, that’s huge: and it’s even more awesome watching it on the ground or with Mara balloon Safaris.

Mara River Crossing:
The most dramatic and memorable safari experience is when you observe the migrating wildebeest/gnus at the several Mara river crossings. Numbers upon numbers gather at such crossings unsure of their next move. The crossings are such notorious spots that the gnus have developed a self preservation instinct over time. Wildebeests will amass in their thousands at banks of river Mara which is rife with the dreaded Nile crocodile and raging currents. Put in the swift current, eminent stampedes and jaw snapping crocodiles in this picture and you get a guaranteed recipe for mass genocide at such river crossings. The Maasai Mara River is usually awash with bloated mass of wildebeest carcass that crocodiles feast on for days on end.

Over 250,000 of the wildebeest die from drowning, stampede, crocodiles and the predators every year. But even this annual carnage is not enough to reduce their numbers. The wildebeest deaths during migration are replenished by the over 400,000 births a year. The deaths during migration are now considered as a natural population check; natural selection at its best.

Do and Die Point:
River crossings in the Mara are favourite vantage points to observe the Mara wildebeest migration on your Kenyan safari. The animals will gather hesitantly in huge numbers on the banks, unsure of when to take the plunge. The other wildebeests behind the frontline keep amassing into hundreds of thousands until the pressure on the front is too much to bear.

They finally take the leap; and when they do, even the waiting crocodiles scatter to the flanks. The fear of being trampled by the millions of wildebeest is too real for even a crocodile to risk a head-on affront. Hundreds upon hundreds make death-daring- high leaps into the water, that the splash makes a swash like a million water falls.

The Wildebeest Predators:
Wildebeest Migration is such that a smattering population of other bovids, join in the migration including Zebras and Gazelles. Lion prides also escort (as they eat some, of course) and welcome the migrating wildebeest on either side of the Mara River Crossings. The lions stark up their stomachs with gnu carcass to a point, the prey subdues the prides in the plains with little fear. As long as a lion has had his 35 odd kilos of meat a day, he poses no threat. “All that is needed is to sacrifice a cousin here, a distant aunt there and we are fine.” It’s surely a game of numbers. Leopards on other hand, don’t have to move far to hunt its prey. All they’ll do is pounce on unsuspecting wildebeest as they pass by their (leopards) tree parches. The rest scatter as usual in different directions. “It’s just another sacrifice after all; we still got the numbers… no matter what. This is one of the most elusive picture-perfect moments when you are on your African Wildlife Safari.

Visiting the Masai Mara:
It’s not only the carnivores that will escort migrating wildebeests but humans as well. The Maasai Maraattracts such interest that the ensuring demand during the months of June-October cannot be met. You will find it difficult to get a space in the lodges if you do not book in advance. Your accommodation in the Mara ranges from 4star to 5star deluxe lodges, tented camps and simple camping tents. The wildebeest Migration takes place everyday of the 4(July-October) month duration. You are as such guaranteed a sighting irrespective of which month of the 4 you visit.

Your bookings are handled by several very professional companies which also provide transportation and transfers from airports, self drive car hire and accommodation in the Mara. Make sure you see the migration the next time you make a Kenyan wildlife safari.

Tanzania while on an -East African Wildlife Safaris tour luxury Lodge or budget Camping, Beach Holidays East Africa Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing-Nairobi hotel bookings and airport shuttle transfers Nairobi Arusha moshi. Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions offer a variety of African safari trips, sample these from www.mountkenyaclimbing.com or contact safari reservations and bookings at info@mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Kenya Wildlife Safari: Wildlife Safaris in Kenya

2008-08-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

Kenya Wildlife Safari: Wildlife Safaris in Kenya:

The Masai Mara National Reserve is probably the most famous and most visited reserve in Kenya. It offers breathtaking views (seen in the film 'Out of Africa', much of which was filmed here) an extraordinary density of animals including the "Big Five" and many varieties of game.

An impressive feature is the annual migration of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle from the plains of the Serengeti that cross the Tanzanian border and rivers to reach the Mara's lush grassland from late June, hunted by the predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Apart from the seasonal migration, game viewing is excellent year round. Game includes: elephant, Black Rhino, buffalo, plains zebra, roan antelope in small numbers, white-bearded gnu, oribi, warthog, Thomson's and Grant's gazelle, hartebeest and the big cats; the rivers are home to hippo and crocodiles.

Bird life is as profuse as wildlife. This includes red winged schalow's turaco, white-tipped crest, ross turaco, orange buff pel's fishing owl, and wary guinea fowl. The open plain birds include Jackson's bustard, black-bellied hartlaubs bustard. 53 species of birds of prey have been recorded.

The Mara comprises 200 sq. miles of open plains, woodlands and riverine forest. The Mara is part of a massive ecosystem, contiguous with the plains of the Serengeti, which stretches across the border into Tanzania. If visiting the Mara from July through October, visitors should take the opportunity to witness one of the world's greatest natural spectacles, the Great Wildebeest Migration from the Serengeti. Each year the promise of rain and fresh life giving grass in the north brings more than 1.3 million Wildebeest together into a single massive herd.

The herds of the Mara attract plenty of predators. This is the best place in all of Kenya to see Lions. Whether they are on the hunt or at rest in family groups, Lions are often seen in the reserve. Cheetahs are also often seen here, as are Hyena and smaller predators such as Jackals.

A safari through the Mara lets the visitor experience several different habitats in a single day. On the wide-open grasslands you can travel through huge herds of Zebra, Giraffe, Gazelle, and Topi. The attendant predators are a continual presence among the herds. Around the waters of the Musiara-Swamp elephants can be found seeking refuge from the heat. Traveling along the banks of the Mara and Talek there are excellent river views of Hippos and Crocodiles, while the riverine forests abound with Bird life and Monkeys.

This great range of natural habitats means that there is plenty to explore, and plenty of species to encounter. A safari into the wilds of Kenya is a journey into nature at its purest. Everywhere you look there is a profusion of life.

A hot-air balloon is silhouetted against an African sky as a new day dawns over the Masai Mara. Discover just how much a Kenya safari wildlife holiday can offer you...

Kenya has a magnificent climate and landscape - part of which rests on the equator - making for a land of astounding contrast. There are snow-capped mountains, such as Mount Kenya, Africa's second largest mountain after Mount Kilimanjaro in neighbouring Tanzania. The waterfalls and lush tropical forests of Aberdare National Park provide a welcome relief from the arid open plains of Samburu and Kenya's north-eastern region. If that isn't enough, visitors can bask in the sunshine on the palm-fringed white beaches of the Coast Province.

Most visitors to Kenya experience this extraordinary contrast by spending a few days on the coast, bathing in the warm, tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean, before venturing inland for that quintessential of African experiences: the Kenya safari. Wildlife in Kenya is astounding; particularly in the Masai Mara, home of the big five - elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, lion, leopard - as well as hippos, crocodiles and the now endangered cheetah. Birds and wildlife are as abundant as they are varied and it is a wholly unforgettable experience. Imagine being surrounded by thousands of wildebeest and zebra, thundering along like a great train towards greener pastures. This is their Great Annual Migration. It is both humbling and mystifying.

But there's much more to a safari in Kenya than just game drives. Safari lodges themselves are superb for wildlife viewing while you enjoy your lunch between game drives. Lodges and camps are usually located beside rivers, which lure all sorts of wildlife to drink and bathe. Safari lodge activities are quite unique, what with invitations to silver-service bush dinners; night game drives to track the leopard; bush picnics and Maasai dancing. Discover all the secrets of Kenya safaris and more in the photo-illustrated Kenya safari wildlife holiday travelogue.

All information for Kenya travel can be found on this web site, including visa requirements, jabs and the best malaria tablets for Kenya. From thrill-seekers looking for excitement and adventure, to sun-worshippers planning a relaxing beach holiday - a Kenya vacation has it all.

Whether you're planning a beach holiday in Kenya, wildlife safari, or a Kenya beach - safari combo, you will discover plenty of information here to help with your preparations. Perhaps you're unsure about which game reserve(s) to visit or maybe you're just wondering when is the best time to travel to Kenya? Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions is your preferred Kenya Wildlife safari partner and will advice you on all the requirements, best time to travel, safari packages and you will only sit back and enjoy the Kenyan safari experience!

Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration 2008 Update: Masai Mara Tour

2008-08-01T04:52:00.000-07:00

Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration 2008 Update:

The Wildebeest Migration has arrived in the Masai Mara, finally!
The Mara River has been active this past week, with many wildebeest and zebra crossing the river near Look Out Hill onto the Mara Triangle. The water in the river is still low which makes crossings for the wildebeest an easy walk across – which has not deterred the crocodiles from snapping up a meal at any given opportunity. The herds along the lower side of the Mara River has settled down a bit while the Loita herds have joined the Serengeti ones south of the Mara Triangle where the grass is sufficient to sustain them through the migration season.

To book your migration safari contact reservations at: info@mountkenyaclimbing.com and be part of the many travellers witnessing this annual drama unfold with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions.

Rwanda Safaris - Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda

2008-07-31T22:48:00.000-07:00

Rwanda Safaris - Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda:

About Rwanda:
Rwanda is a small country at the heart of Africa that is the latest nature-lovers’ craze. A land of immense natural splendour and diversity, the country is emerging from a recent troubled history to become a well regarded eco-tourism destination. Attractions are numerous: splendid landscapes - rolling hills to steep mountains, cultural heritage, mountain gorillas, volcano peaks, dense rain forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and numerous rivers and lakes.

Rwanda appears to be a vista of endless mounts and drops, and is thus referred to as the “land of a thousand hills”. Landlocked between East & Central Africa, it is at 26,338 sq km about the size of the US state of Massachusetts. In this tough neighbourhood, it is snuggled up between Uganda to its north, Tanzania to its east, Burundi to its south, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to its west.

Tourists have in increasing numbers been sampling Rwand'a bounty and over 40,000 tourists visited the country in 2007- mainly to see its famed gorillas. The Virunga ecosystem -which encompasses Volcano National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and DRC Congo's Virunga National Park, is the last remaining mountain gorilla sanctuary in the world, and carries one third of the worlds remaining 750 mountain gorillas.

The World Conservation Union has classified mountain gorillas as critically endangered- and sees them as facing a very high risk of extinction. Mountain gorillas owe a lot to Dian Fossey, who spent 18 years of her life living and working among them. This sojourn led to a book and widely acclaimed movie of the same title "Gorillas in the Mist". The biographical film was set and shot on location in the Volcano National Park.

Rwanda has in recent years held a well publicised annual baby gorilla naming ceremony -Kwita Izina- an event modeled on the traditional naming ceremony for newborns. The ceremony is held for gorillas born in the preceding 12 months, and is intended to raise local and international awareness on the dire plight of the mountain gorilla. Parc National des Volcans (PNV), also known as Volcano National Park is Rwanda’s most famed attraction, and is where all of Rwanda’s gorilla tracking is done. Occupying 125 sq km of montane forest, the park is situated to the north-west of the country at the border with Uganda and DR Congo.

The park consists of 4 vegetation zones: the bamboo zone which rises from base altitudes to as high up as 2600m; the lusher Hagenia and Hypericum zone, which is thick forest rising up to about 3300m; the Sub-alpine to about 4000m, and finally the Afro-alpine zone takes over the volcano peaks.

The park sits like a gorgeous mural with all six of Rwanda’s volcanoes lined up in sequence. Karisimbi stands as the highest peak and the country’s highest point at 4324m, while Gahinga, Mikeno, Muhabura, Sabyinyo and Visoke are the other 5 volcanoes. Adventure travellers delight in trekking through the chain of misty volcanoes while enjoying clean air and panoramic views as they trail the rare mountain gorillas. These gentle giants of the ape family prefer habitats of high altitude and bamboo forests.

To go on a gorilla tracking excursion in Rwanda, every tracker is required to obtain a permit from the Rwanda Tourism Board (ORTPN). The number of permits issued per day is limited to only eight, and to secure a slot, advance booking is necessary. It's recommended that you take an organized Rwanda gorilla tracking tour with a reputable agent, who will offer a package which includes the permits, accommodation and transport logistic, for example Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions - http://www.mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Gorilla tracking can be a little pricey, but on the other hand, tracking these colossal beings while walking through the thickets and enjoying nature at the same time is an educative, entertaining, and refreshing experience and for lovers of the natural world it's money well spent. Tracing the paths taken by the gorillas from their overnight nest, each excursion lasts 1-4 hours. Trackers must be accompanied by an experienced gorilla guide.

While on a gorilla excursion, certain regulations must be adhered to for ones own safety and that of the environment. Bad manners such as spitting, smoking, littering, coughing in the direction of the gorillas and noise making are prohibited. You are also advised to refrain from making any rapid movements- including running and disturbing vegetation. Photos must be taken without a flash and to take videos you need clearance by ORTPN.

It is usually not safe to get too close to the gorillas; about 7m is close enough. It is advisable to wear long sleeves and trousers to avoid the pain of nettle and insect stings. The weather in the mountains is capricious and it is wise to carry along some rain gear and comfortable waterproof hiking boots. The altitude changes makes onerous demands on the body, and you should bring along a little snack and lots drinking water. But you will annoy the authorities if you attempt to feed the animals or eat in their presence.

Managed by the ORTPN, the PNV is well maintained and security is good; park rangers are on constant patrol. The park is easily accessible from Ruhengeri town, which is 14km from park headquarters. Ruhengeri itself has good road connections; it is just a 90 minute drive from the capital –Kigali, and 45 minutes from Gisenyi on Lake Kivu.

Nyungwe National Park, (pictured above) a large montane rainforest to the southwest is another of Rwanda's natural attractions. Placed in the Albertine Rift, the park is part of a series of mountain ranges that run from the Rwenzori Mountains of western Uganda, through Burundi and Rwanda, and onto eastern DR Congo. Perched at elevations of between 1600m and 2950m and occupying 970 sq km, it is Africa’s largest mountainous rainforest. It has its headquarters at Uqinka town, 54 km west of Cyangungu town and is well accessible from Butare town.

Rich in flora and fauna, Nyungwe’s biodiversity is incomparable. With over 200 tree species, an amazing 100 orchid species and various flowering plants, the park’s plant-life is mostly endemic. Weaving through the forest are meandering trails that lead to excellent view points or natural waterfalls. Trekking through the ranges further reveals a magnificent array of primates and birdlife.

The chatter of monkeys fills the forest as primates make up a large part of Nyungwe's animal population with 13 different species recorded. The acrobatic black and white Angola colobus are always ready with a spectacular show as they swing from tree to tree. Other notables include the vervet, golden, red-tailed, silver, hamlyn’s, Dent’s Mona and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The grey-cheeked mangabey and olive baboon are also residents here. Quite a good population of chimpanzees, estimated at about 500 individuals enjoy sanctuary here in their natural surroundings.

A birder’s paradise, Nyungwe has an impressive bird species count. 275 of Rwanda’s 670 birds can be found here, 26 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift. Some of its resident birds include the colourful Ruwenzori and blue turacos, the green pigeon, giant forest hornbill, paradise flycatcher, alethe and sunbirds.

Akagera National Park, towards the Rwandan border with Tanzania is Rwanda’s home of safari. It provides a contrast from the hilly country side as its African savannah, mountain and swamp eco-regions stretch across the horizon. Covering 2500 sq km, the park offers a different safari experience from neighbouring Tanzania and Kenya.

Most species that are seen alongside each other in the latter two countries don’t occur in the same pattern in Akagera. Some of the common game species that can be seen here include: the African elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, spotted hyena, giraffe, sparse populations of zebra, hippos, and some antelope species –bushbuck, eland, impala and oribi. The park derives its life from the Kagera River that flows from Tanzania.

Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s great inland sea and a refreshing getaway in this landlocked country. It is a fresh water lake whose high altitude of 1472m makes it Africa’s highest lake. With excellent views and picturesque panorama of surrounding mountains and rainforests, the lake serves 3 resort towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu. At Gisenyi there is a marvellous inland beach that comes complete with palm trees, a tropical atmosphere and beach hotels. From the resorts, lots of adventure and activities to be enjoyed include: mountain biking, fishing, swimming, and a variety of water sports.

Kigali bears the burden of hosting a most unique memorial site: the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre at Gisozi. This is a national monument built upon a mass grave in which about 250,000 genocide victims were buried. The centre is very graphic and the mood is sombre; visitors cannot help but commiserate over the trauma Rwanda underwent in a short 3 month period in 1994 when an estimated 800,000 people were massacred.

Several exhibitions and dark studios showcase among other things some of the victims’ bones and photos accompanied by sound play of their voices and cries. The experience is moving and the memory of it haunting. The site is a painful reminder to Rwanda and the world of the bitter harvest of schism and hate. Every April 7th since 2004, Rwanda remembers at Gisozi the victims of the events of 1994.

A guide to Rwanda gorilla tracking, Rwanda golden monkey safaris, chimpanzee adventures, Rwanda hiking and trekking gorilla tours, hotels and lodges in Rwanda and Uganda - Gorilla Nest Hotel and Gorilla Nest Lodge in Rwanda, Ruhengeri & Kanombe Airport: Mountain Gorilla in Rwanda

Things to do In Rwanda
Rwanda, the land of one thousand hills and ‘hundreds attractions’ is an extraordinary place where serene scenery and placid people greet you at every juncture. Rwanda is safe and secure with an overwhelming renaissance of Rwandese national pride and cultural reconstruction. It is full of sights and delights, waiting to be explored. If Rwanda is on your travel list there is no better time to runaway to Rwanda…visit today you would want to stay!

The country is well known mostly because of its horrible recent history and you might think that Rwanda should therefore be more the scope for No governmental organization than for travelers. Nowadays, nothing is less true. Rwanda has wonderful people, breathtaking beautiful lakes, challenging mountains, stunning scenery, perfect climate, rare species of apes, excellent roads, express buses, good and cheap food and beer, various accommodation options, fast internet, only few tourists outside the gorilla-homes, you will found it all in Rwanda, a safe and yet to be discovered backpackers haven!

Because of its small size, Rwanda attractions are near each other and can be reached quite easily and safely.

1. KIGALI CITY: A NICE PLACE TO EXPERIENCE AN AFRICAN CAPITAL
Kigali is an interesting mix of rural and urban town overflowing on juxtaposed hilly terrain. New construction is everywhere and large mansions stand side by side with mud brick huts and lean roads. It has a peaceful feel and the center is located upon the hilltop expanse. It feels safe and getting around is easy on foot or minibuses…many and new. For a bit more taxis can whiz you anywhere without breaking the bank. Kigali is a nice place to experience an African capital.

2. KGALI GENOCIDE MEMORIALS CENTER IN GISOZI
During the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, over a million people were murdered. Some 250,000 perished on the streets and in the houses, churches and hospitals of Kigali alone. The Kigali Genocide memorial center contains ten mass graves- a site of burial for almost victims, who were killed in the Kigali region. After the genocide, as mass graves were being discovered around the city. It was decided that a single monument/ burial place should be created, where the victims could be laid to rest with dignity, this is now their final resting place. The memorial houses a childrenâ€™s section, a particularly powerful experience to read about the children- how they lived, and how they died. Amongst other things, it traces how things came to being so bad, how the ideology of genocide emerged, how the tragedy could have been averted, and how the world ignored the signs and warnings repeatedly. Some of the survivors of the genocide have been trained as guides at the center. Open 10am to 5pm daily. Entrance is free but at the door there is a box for donation. The place is really heart breaking!

4. MOUNTAIN GORILLAS TREKKING
A Mountain Gorilla Trekking is the pinnacle of all the wildlife experiences available in Africa and Rwanda is with no doubt the best place for this. People are limited to spend only one hour with the Gorillas and expect to hike for two to four hours to see them. These incredible primates are divided into four groups that have been habituated over the decades; it's a thing not to miss in Rwanda. Don’t miss spending an hour with these magical creatures. It does require planning in advance, and contacting the National Park or a local tour operator to check what the latest system they have implemented with regards to how you get a permit - but it is all worthwhile. Also, don’t be put off by the price - a high price is needed to ensure that protecting the gorillas is economically sustainable for the local area.

5. MOUNTAINS CLIMBING
The National park office offers guided climbs to the top of 2 volcano among the 5 of the Virunga chain, Visoke (3711m) and Karisimbi (4705m -the tallest).

The climbs to the summits are not technical and can be done by fit hikers. The scenery is great! However, the trek to Karisimbi’s summit is an overnight trek and should be prepared properly.

6. NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK
This national park is a preserved part of rain forest which houses 13 species in all, including humankind’s closest living relative the chimpanzee, as well as the handsome L’Hoest’s monkey and hundred-strong troops of the delightfully acrobatic Angola colombus. The most important ornithological site in Rwanda, Nyungwe harbours almost 300 bird species of which two dozen are restricted to a handful of montane forests on the Albertine Rift. Please come with your car or book a tour with a local tour operator otherwise it is very hard to reach the place and get away. You can camp there and pitch a tent but you have to consider bringing all food and water with you as facilities are limited. The entry fee has recently been increased so check up the actual fares.

7. AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Akagera is the best national park of Rwanda - very helpful park-ranger help to find you all animals in park - mainly, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, baboons, buffaloes, hippos and crocodiles.

8. RUSUMO FALLS
Rusumo is a Marvelous and spectacular falls of the Akagera River, a part of the most distant headwaters of the river Nile. The falls is located in the Eastern part of Rwanda at the border with Tanzania.
If you happen to cross the border with Tanzania at Rusumo don’t forget to see the Rusumo falls.

9. THE BEAUTIFULLY LAKE KIVU
The beautifully Lake Kivu is a large deposit of fresh water that marks the western border with DR Congo and one of the Great Lakes of Africa. The lake is in the Albertine Rift, a part of the Great Rift Valley. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika. Beneath the lake lie vast reserves of approximately 55 billion cubic of dissolved methane gas which have not been exploited. Lake Kivu is a tourist center, safe to swim (but just ask locally to be completely sure). There are nice beaches, gorgeous landscapes and the sunsets are regularly stunning. There are some excellent places to stay on the Lakeside such as Kibuye and -especially-Gisenyi near the DR Congo border.

10. BUTARE CITY IN HUYE
The most popular tourist attraction in Butare is the superb National Museum, which houses perhaps the finest ethnographic collection in East Africa. The rooms are spacious, without the excessive clutter of distracting memorabilia. This makes the well-labeled exhibits easy to appreciate and enjoy. Absorbing displays of traditional artefacts are illuminated by a fascinating selection of turn-of-the-century monochrome photographs, providing insight not only into pre-colonial lifestyles, but also into the subsequent development of Rwanda as a modern African state. Here the Intore dancers can be commissioned to perform, but this is not a good deal for a single traveler. If a group is present the price would definitely be worthwhile as shows are few and far between.

Mara Serena Lodge: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Masai Mara

2008-07-30T23:29:00.000-07:00

Mara Serena Lodge: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Masai Mara

Mara Serena Safari Lodge is an elegant getaway hidden in the Masai Mara National Reserve. The Lodge is situated on a hill looking out over the vast plains, rivers and forests of the Masai Mara where the extraordinary annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle take place.

Accommodation at The Mara Serena Safari Lodge consists of:
Built to emulate the traditional Masai Village, the guest rooms are grouped in a circular fashion and the style of your room inspired by traditional Masai art with a hint of international sophistication. You will enjoy a private balcony with fantastical views. There are 73 rooms of which one is a presidential suite, 20 double rooms and 8 inter connecting rooms. Triple rooms can be obtained on request. There is also an optional too housekeeping service which includes laundry, valet, baby sitting, children’s menus, shoe shine etc.

Every visitor will love the restaurant overlooking the waterhole giving you the chance to observe Africa’s wildlife a little closer. The dining room provides a vibrant atmosphere with a selection of dishes that is both imaginative and traditional.

You can splash out in the swimming pool located on the edge of a hill, again, observing the African escarpment. Visitor have access to a range of relaxing messages, evening cocktails parties at the waterhole, game drives, bird watching, nature walks, bush barbecues or a breathtaking experience overlooking the Masai Mara in a Hot Air Balloon.

The resort is completely equipped to host a conference and immaculately stocked with state of the art presentation facilities including a full selection of overhead, slide projector, screen, TV-video and video conference equipment, state of the audio visual equipment, Podium/PA system, badges, registration desks, delegate packs, delegate services, specialist delegate gifts, secretarial back up and communication links, tailor-made itineraries, private safaris and individually planned and themed menus. A full range of imaginative incentive packages and fully tailored accommodation packages is also available.

Have a beautiful bush bowered wedding ceremony in the Masai Mara where you are guaranteed a beautiful day. As to formalities; from registrar to certificate, cake to champagne, all will be arranged. We will happily provide the finest indigenous flowers from Kenya.

Forex facilities are available on the premises, as well as medical and emergency evacuation facilities. Mara Serena Airstrip and Keekorok Airstrip are located just a stones throw away from the Hotel.

Samburu Larsens Tented Camp: Samburu Larsens, Tented Camps in Samburu

2008-07-30T23:21:00.000-07:00

Samburu Larsens Tented Camp: Samburu Larsens, Tented Camps in Samburu

Larsens Tented Camp, Samburu Game Reserve, Kenya
Experience the pure beauty of the Uaso Nyrio River, with its sparkling waters and canopy of Acacia trees. On the banks of this shimmering river, you’ll find Larsens Tented Camp – a luxury oasis in the middle of Africa.

Accommodation at Larsens Tented Camp consists of:
Larsens Tented Camp offers guests the luxury of staying in an intimate setting, within one of 20 authentic African Safari tents. These tents are fully ensuite, and provide you with the magnificence of a 5 star hotel.

Larsens Tented Camp also has a gorgeous curio and gift shop, where guests will find the most special handcrafted treasures. There is also a fully stocked cocktail bar and game-viewing deck, where one can sit back and relax after a day of exciting activities. The sunsets from this vantage point are truly sights to behold!

Guests can enjoy their scrumptious meals in the formal dining room, or even outside in the garden. Champagne breakfasts are usually served on the riverbanks, where you can watch as the resident hippos splash about in the cool water.

Evenings are generally spent around the roaring campfire, telling stories and enjoying a relaxing sundowner drink. Larsens Tented Camp offers guests the best in entertainment, with traditional African dancers performing for you around the fire.

Some of the activities that guests enjoy while staying at Larsens Tented Camp include 4x4 game drives, which can be enjoyed at a variety of times, such as early morning, in the day and even at night, making sure that guests get the chance to experience the nocturnal animals as well.

Some of the creatures to be seen include giraffe, oryx, lion and zebra, as well as elephant, cheetah and leopard to name a few. An amazing feature of Larsens Tented Camp is that guests can experience the thrill of feeding crocodiles and ostriches!

Mara Simba Lodge: Simba Lodges in Kenya, Masai Mara Simba Lodge

2008-07-30T23:13:00.000-07:00

MARA SIMBA LODGE, MASAI MARA, KENYA:

Mara Simba Lodge is a much needed get-away in the very heart of Kenya, not far from the film location of Tomb Raider. Mara Simba Lodge offers guests natural beauty and time for quiet reflection, and when you’re in the mood for some action-packed adventure and exciting activities, well, anything is possible at Mara Simba Lodge …

Accommodation at Mara Simba Lodge consists of:
There are 84 quality rooms at Mara Simba Lodge. Included in these are various super luxurious double and even triple suites, as well as twin bedded rooms, all depending on the size of your party.

All rooms are fully equipped with large ensuite bathrooms with both baths and showers. All the suites have private verandas, where a spare bed can always be added, with breathtakingingly serene river views, as well as 24hour room service, all for your satisfaction.

Mara Simba Lodge also offers guests a Babysitting service, a same-day laundry service, as well as top-class business facilities in the conference centre, as well as being the ideal venue for a glorious African wedding. Guests can also stay in the tented camp, if you’d like to experience sleeping under the African sky, alongside some amazing creatures.

Meals are a lavish affair, served in the exquisite dining room, or even outside in the beautiful landscaped gardens. Guests can enjoy a cocktail after dinner, from the well-stocked bar and even shoot a few games of pool with a new friend.

Days at the Mara Simba Lodge can be spent going out on 4x4 safari van game drives to view Africa’s nortorious and treasured 'Big Five' and the rare black-maned lion in particular. The perfect time to visit this lodge would be from August to November, when you can witness the annual migration of thousands of zebra, topi and wildebeest, as they hurry along the Serengeti plains. This is truly a once in a lifetime phenomenon, with over 2 million animals jouneying together to greener pastures.

To get you into true holiday mood and utter relaxation, Mara Simba Lodge has a magnificent health spa and beauty salon with state of the art facilities, such as a sauna, steam room, massage table and fitness gym. You could even enjoy a game of tennis and then a dip in the large heated swimming pool.

You can also pick up a few treasured souvenirs for your loved ones back home at the lovely curio and gift shop at Mara Simba Lodge. When parents need a little time out, you’ll be glad to know that there is a baby sitting service available, as well as a baby pool for your little ones to splash about in!

Masai Mara, Safari trips to Masai Mara: Maasai Mara Migration Kenya

2008-07-30T21:17:00.000-07:00

Masai Mara Game Reserve: Masai Mara, Safari trips to Masai Mara

The Masai Mara Game Reserve is Kenya’s finest wildlife. Your first sight of this incredible natural wonderland is breathtaking; the landscape rolls away in endless savannah, ensuring that the abundant wildlife are never out of site.

From forest and rivers to hills and escarpments to plains, bush and scrub this diverse landscape is home to an enormous number of different species. Giant herds of Elephants wander slowly but purposefully across the vast grasslands, Gazelle’s, Elands and Topi skip playfully through beautiful scenery and if you are lucky you will see one of their major predators, Lions, Cheetahs and Leopards cunningly lying in wait for their prey and giving chase.

The Mara River traverses the reserve and it is not unusual to see Hippos bathing in the river and crocodiles lying in the baking sun seemingly asleep but in reality poised to pounce at lightening speed for their next meal. Birds, too, are prolific. Including migrants well over 450 species have been recorded, among them 57 species of birds of prey.

Amazing as it may seem this wealth of beauty both in the landscape and the multitude of wildlife which resides here is nothing compared to the amazing sight of the March of the Wildebeests. Each year, somewhere far in the South of the Serengeti, millions of wildebeests lift their heads almost in unison, and begin their long trek from the Kenyan Border to Masai Mara. Tracked by predators and circled by vultures their dangerous journey is a long one. Towards the end of June hundreds of thousands of Wildebeast arrive in Masai Mara and driving in the middle of this stampede is truly awe-inspiring, there is nowhere else on earth to rival this natural marvel.

It is important to remember that game viewing is nothing short of excellent all year round. As well as the expected better known species you will also have numerous opportunities to see some of the rarer and less frequently seen wildlife such as the roan antelope, hartebeest, Bat-eared foxes, topi and many, many more. The unique combination of a gentle climate, beautiful scenery and Abundance of wildlife makes the Masai Mara Kenya's most popular inland destination

Visas for Kenya
Although Kenyan visas have been/are available at point of entry/the border we do recommend you obtain your visas prior to departure if possible as we cannot always guarantee this. If you plan to purchase your visas on arrival, you will need American dollars cash. Check with your embassy before you leave to see whether you require a visa.

When is the best time to visit?
During the dry seasons: it's cooler from the end of May to early October, and warmer from late November to early March. The dry season from July to March is the best time to see wildlife, and the March of the Wildebeests occurs from June – August.

How to get to the Masai Mara?
The Masai Mara lies about 270 km from Nairobi and takes about 5 hours by road. There are scheduled flights, twice daily from Wilson Airport Nairobi, which take about 40 - 45 minutes.

Health / Medical Information:
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required if arriving within 6 days from or via an infected area

Climate
The climate is warm and dry with abundant seasonal rainfall.

Rainfall: The Masai Mara receives the highest rainfall of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem - an average of 1 000mm of rain per year, concentrated in two seasons - March to June (the so-called "long rains") and October to December ("short rains").

As a result of the rains the Masai Mara has sharp seasonal differences in terms of grass growth and numbers of herbivores. The rain has a knock-on effect on the entire landscape and ecosystem, right down to limiting the number of predators. Rain usually falls during late afternoon or at night.

Temperature: Despite being just a few degrees south of the Equator, daytime temperatures are mild due to the elevated altitude. The nights can be fairly cool. Summer extends from October to April, with December to March being the warmest months. All year minimum temperatures are 11ºC/52ºF and maximum temperatures are 30ºC/86ºF.

Overall, the climate of the Mara is gentle and it is rarely too hot. The cool season is from May to September.

Altitude: Kichwa Tembo lies just a few degrees south of the Equator, at an altitude of between 1 600 and 2 000 metres above sea level.

The People
The majority of the population is African, divided into three linguistic groups, Bantu, Cushitic and Nilotic, from which the diverse tribes of Kenya have developed.

Kikuyu
The largest group in the country (approximately 2 million) and the most successful at adapting culturally. They migrated to the fertile central highlands between the 16th and 17th centuries and developed as livestock and cereal farmers. Many have become highly successful business people and their representative, Jomo Kenyatta, became the first president.

Samburu
The Samburu are pastoralists, who live to the south and east of Lake Turkana. The social structure is essentially a gerontocracy – rule by elders – assuring the elders first choice among the young unmarried women. Men are usually about 30 by the time they marry, but the women marry at about 17 years of age.

Maasai
Probably the most famous of all the Kenyan groups and related to the Samburu tribe. They are pastoralists, noted for drinking cattle blood mixed with milk, a mainstay of their diet. Their love of cattle is legendary and based on religious beliefs. They are a proud people, given to superior airs. Tall and slender, they carry themselves elegantly, dressed in brilliant red cloth with both men and women adorned with beadwork and metal jewellery. The Maasai have survived a troubled history but are under increasing pressure to conform with modern society

Important Information
Please try to follow these simple and self-explanatory guidelines when visiting the Masai Mara in Kenya:

1) Noise – keep quiet the predators will get hungry if you scare of their Lunch and angry particularly if they have young to feed.
2) Leave Masai Mara as you found it take all litter home with you.
3) Do not feed the animals, stop your vehicle unless at a designated camp and remember however cute they look a lion cub will take your hand off if you put it in the way.
4) It is strongly recommended that you travel with a guide. This will give you the opportunity to learn more about the area whilst being safer.

visit the Masai Mara today on a Masai Mara safari, safari in Africa, game viewing Masai Mara, Masai Mara national park or visit the local Maasai villages for a Maasai cultural tour or Maasai cultural safari or walking with the Maasai Morans. Check out on Masai Mara trips and Maasai Mara tours available, Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions at www.mountkenyaclimbing.com. Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions is one the Kenya safari companies offering safari holidays to the Masai Mara National Park.

Tarangire National Park in Tanzania: Tarangire Safari, Tarangire Sopa Lodge

2008-07-30T09:39:00.000-07:00

Tarangire National Park in Tanzania:

Day after day of cloudless skies, the fierce sun sucks the moisture from the landscape, baking the earth a dusty red, the withered grass as brittle as straw. The Tarangire River has shrivelled to a shadow of its wet season self. But it is choked with wildlife. Thirsty nomads have wandered hundreds of parched kilometres knowing that here, there is always water. Herds of up to 300 Elephants scratch the parched river bed for underground streams while migratory wildebeest, Zebra, Buffalo, Gazelle, Hartebeest, Eland and Oryx crowd the shrinking lagoons. It’s a smorgasbord for Predators – the greatest concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti ecosystem.

The rain scatter the seasonal visitors over a 20,000 square kilometre range until they exhaust the green plains and the river calls once more. But Tarangire’s mobs of Elephant are easily encountered, wet or dry. The swamps, tinged green year round, are the focus for 550 bird varieties, the most breeding species in one habitat anywhere in the world. On drier ground you find Kori bustards, the heaviest flying bird; the stocking thighed ostrich, the world’s largest bird; and ground hornbills that bluster like turkeys. Tarangire’s pythons climb trees, as do its Lions and Leopards, lounging in the branches where the fruit of the sausage trees disguises the twitch of a tail.

Size 2600 sq km (about 1600 sq miles)
Location 118 kms southwest of Arusha Town.

Getting there
Easy drive from Arusha or Lake Manyara; can continue on to Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. No Schedule flights, but can arrange Charter flights from Arusha and the Serengeti.

Tarangire National Park travelling distances:
rusha Town to Tarangire National Park 130km
Tarangire to Namanga Boarder 235km
Tarangire National Park to Lake Manyara 95km
Tarangire to Ngorongoro Crater 185km
Tarangire to Olduvai Gorge 245km
Tarangire to Ndutu 245km
Tarangire to Serengeti National Park 325km
Tarangire to Serengeti Western Corridor 380km

What To Do Guided walking safaris; day trip to the Barabaig tribe’s
ancient Kolo rock paintings, Game viewing, Best place
to see Elephants.

Best Time
Year round but dry season (June - Feb) for sheer numbers of Animals.

Accommodation Sopa Lodge – 4 Star
Swala Luxury Tented Camp - 5 Star
Tarangire Tented Safari Camp - 4 Star
Luxury Mobile Tented Camp
Various Budget Camping sites.

Tarangire National Park for safari, camping, birds watching, game drive in Tarangire National Park

Kenya Vacation Packages, Kenya Travel Packages, Kenya tours, Kenya tour safari, Kenya vacation

2008-07-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

About Kenya:
Kenya Vacation Packages, Kenya Travel Packages, Kenya Tours

Kenya is an East African country that rises from a low coastal plain on the Indian Ocean to mountains and plateaus at its center. The country size is 582,650 and is bordered by Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan Tanzania, Uganda. Most Kenyans live in the highlands including, main cities and towns.

Nairobi, is the capital centre and stands at an altitude of 1,700 meters (5,500 feet). Even though Nairobi is near the Equator, its high elevation brings cooler air. To the west of Nairobi the land descends to the north-south running through the Great Rift Valley—the valley floor is at its lowest near Lake Turkana further in the deserts of northern Kenya. Around Lake Turkana, scientists have discovered some of humankind's earliest ancestors—a fossil known as Kenya Man, that was dated at 3.5 to 3.2 million years old.

Kenya is host to Forty ethnic groups, including Kikuyu farmers and Maasai cattle herders, three-quarters of Kenya's people is also located in the country side. The total population stands at 33,830,000 with 2,818,000 staying in the capital city Nairobi.

Kenya enjoys a tropical climate. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast parts of the country. The country receives a great deal of sunshine all the year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. The long rain season occurs from April to June. The short rain season occurs from October to December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from February to March and coldest in July to August.

The terrain is low plains rising to the central highlands bisected by Great Rift Valley; fertile plateau in west.The Kenyan Highlands comprise one of the most successful agricultural production regions in Africa; glaciers on Mt. Kenya; unique physiography supports abundant and varied wildlife of scientific and economic value.

Kenya has considerable land area of wildlife habitat, including much of the Serengeti plains, where Wildebeest and other bovids participate in a large scale annual migration. Up to 250,000 Wildebeest perish each year in the long and arduous movement to find forage in the dry season. The annual migration occurs between June and September with millions of wildlife taking part. It has been a popular event for filmmakers to capture.The "Big Five" animals of Africa can also be found in Kenya and these include the Lion, the Leopard, the Buffalo, the Rhino and the biggest of them all - the Elephant. A significant population of other wild animals, reptiles and birds can be found in the national parks and game reserves in the country.

Mara Explorer Camp, Masai Mara in Kenya

2008-07-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Mara Explorer Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya:

Mara Explorer Camp, anew luxury in the world’s oldest wilderness, is located on wide thickly forest bend of the Talek River in the middle of the Masai Mara reserve. It is a sister camp to Mara Intrepids Camp also located in Masai Mara, Kenya.

Open towards the end of 2000, Mara Explorer has lifted up the art of the African Safari, to striking heights. Mara Explorer is under Kenya’s first Maasai lady Manager, Tiito Mpetti, who also manages a community charity educating Maasai girls in her native Megwarra village, to which she will happily welcome tourists who wish.

This luxurious tented camp is found at the meeting point of the reserve’s four major-viewing areas and enjoys prime views of the striking wildebeest movement between June and September. During the rest of the year, herds of watering elephants, giraffe and other animals, can be seen many times from your private verandah. Mara Explorer’s own all-weatner airstrip, meaning you can be in camp not more than an hour after leaving the bustle of Nairobi. The route from the capital offers a scenic ride of just less five hours.

Mara Explorer was built as an eco-friendly camp, and its operations are intended to have a lesser effect on the weak Talek eco-system. All biodegradable waste is spread on the ground for compost, whereas water heating is suppressed by briquettes made from used coffee husks. Together with its sister camp, Mara Intrepids, Mara Explorer helps to construct and facilitate primary schools and medical clinics in the region, tourists are called upon to tour.

The executive five-star camp offers 10 luxurious, well-spaced tents, where each has its own private deck overlooking the Talek River.
Of the tents, 6 even have got giant double beds, while three have got twin beds.

All have got furniture that is styled in a classic blend of the past days and modern, with fine hand carved mahogany furniture, rich African arti facts, luxurious bathrooms with twin basin and all modern amenities.

Every tent reflects a distinctive “Explorer” style, with old wooden chests, tin trunks and ancient prints, complemented by an extremely interesting and attractive collection of ‘African’ books in the camp’s library.

As for culinary and dinning experience, it is important to note that some have them from one of a series of specially chosen “bush sites” close to the camp. Next door, the camp bar offers nice river views and a library, which is so well-stocked, whereas the lounge provides luxurious sofas for reading, playing board games or swapping safari tales. Decorating all the public areas with old African arti facts and memorabila from the ancient days of the African safari is the order of the day.

Meanwhile, meals are served from mara Explorer’s own kitchens, and fresh vegetables and herbs grown in the camp gardens are used.

Mara Explorer camp has got nature experiences and other activities, which include the following: -
§ Hot Air balloon Safaris.
§ Arrangements for Lake Victoria Fishing Safaris.
§ Riverside bush breakfast, sundowners and dinners.
§ Lectures and shows about Maasai culture and wildlife.
§ Private game drives with expert local guides.
§ Walking Safaris in the Mara Conservation Area.
§ Between June and September is when Mara Explorer enjoys prime views of the spectacular wildebeest migration and for the other remaining period of the year, its normally rewarding daily game viewing, and this is mainly due to the fact that it is situated in the heart of the reserve.
§ The camp also provides guests with ultimate wilderness retreat, where you can view elephants or giraffes drinking from the privacy of your verandah-or your own outdoor bathtub

Mount Kenya Climbing Routes: Climbing Mt Kenya Route, Sirimon Route, Naromoru Route, Chogoria, Route: Mt Kenya

2008-07-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

Mount Kenya Climbing Routes: Climbing Mt Kenya Route, Sirimon Route, Naromoru Route, Chogoria, Route: Mt Kenya

To get to Naro Moru park gate from Nairobi it is advisable to leave by 8:00am. Follow the Thika dual carriage way to Karatina. From here about 40Km turn right at the turning for Naro Moru River Lodge. Follow the road to Naro Moru Town. At the end of town is the police station and the turning into the murram road for Naro Moru River Lodge. Here turn right into another murram road which leads the the base of the mountain (Park Gate). There is normally a board to indicate the turning. The Mt.Kenya Porters & Guides are also located on this road.

The Naro Moru Route is at the moment the most popular of all the routes which lead up to the peak areas. It is the steepest and the fastest way up the mountain but this may be a major setback to climbers vulnerable to AMS. The ascent up to Point Lenana and descent of this route can be accomplished within duration of four days or three days.

On the first day it is advisable to walk from the Park Gate to Met Station Bandas to acclimatize to the climate and the altitude. Ensure plenty of intakes of water. This is a rather steep climb especially the first few hills after which it commences to level off. Parties normally do take a long rest at Percival Bridge; some three hours walk from the Park Gate. From Percival Bridge Met Station is just two hours walk on fairly steep inclines. A good indication of Met Station is the two wide corners with scattered rocks and boulders at the sides and a really bad motor way. A night is normally spent here for further acclimatization and resting. On the second day climbers normally begin to walk by at least nine in the morning as it is the longest and the toughest day. On this days climb gaiters or plastic bags are to be put on for the bog. The first part of the climb is fairly easy. This is the climb up to Radio Mast, which normally takes one hour. From here the climb steepen's and it takes another hour or two to reach the bog clearing. From here to the Picnic Point is normally a tiring but gentle climb of three to four hours. Parties can rest here and have a snack under the shelter of the cliff. Another hours walk leads you to the Teleki Valley and in the vicinity of the peak areas. the walk is now a brisk descent of the valley up to the river crossing and takes no more than one to two hours. From here the terrain is completely flat and in another thirty minutes you are no more than 200m from Mackinders Camp which is reached just after a tiring steep hill climbing. A night is normally spent here acclimatizing. It is very wise to have an early night as the next day you have to wake up at two in the morning to attempt the climb of Point Lenana.

In the darkness of the morning it normally takes an hour to reach the base of the steep scree. To ascend the scree it takes three hours of very tiring climbing and deep breaths. It is at this stage where most climbers experience hypoxia and altitude related ailments. There is normally a major rest at Austrian Hut and within another hour Point Lenana is reached. Normally most guides plan the climb such that you reach the summit of Point Lenana before sunrise as there is more traction. The scenery offered at sunset is just superb and the temple on the Chogoria Route is visible from here. The descent is quite easy and care should be taken especially when attempting to descent the scree. Descent from Point Lenana to Mackinders Camp is no more than three hours. At Mackinders there is a rest and breakfast. It is now that you commence to ascend back up to an altitude of 4200m up the Teleki Valley and back to Met Station via the Camel Rocks. If luck is on your side the view of the peaks is awesome from the first beacon at 4200m mark. Normally this walk is very enjoyable and takes no more than four to five hours. Some parties go all the way down to Park Gate on this day but parties do tend to spend an extra night at Met Station and descend the following day.

Parties wishing to go to Two-Tarn hut have to climb diagonally up the white scree behind the ranger's hut. This walk is quite steep and does normally take two hours. The view from Two-Tarn Hut is also beautiful with the Emerald Tarn in the vicinity; rive minutes walk to the left of the hut. Just before the Park Gate there is the Mt.Kenya Guides and Porters association where guides, porters and equipment for hire can be attained. At the base is also the world famous training institution of the National Outdoor and Leadership School (NOLS) which does also organize climbs for clients.

Other routes on the mountain include Burguret Route, Sirimon Route, Timau Route, Chogoria Route, Meru Route and Kamweti Route. Though there have been attempts to develop new routes up to the peak areas there have been no particularly popular routes. Of all Chogoria Route is the most scenic, longest and the toughest of all the routes. The other more popular route is the Sirimon Route, which is also quite easy climbing compared to the Naro Moru Route.

Kenya Safari Accommodations and Luxury Tented Camps

2008-07-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

Kenya Lodges, Tented Camps and Safari Lodge Accommodation:

Kenya has some of the most outstanding safari lodges and tented camps, acclaimed for their design, conservation practices and guest comfort, not to mention the superb wilderness locations.

Kenya Lodges and camps are painstakingly built in the bush, designed to merge with the surroundings and offer simple yet comfortable accommodation in remote national parks.

Bars and swimming pools are a regular feature at almost all the lodges. See some of the selected lodges in various National Parks have been listed below.

Governors II Moran Camp:
Location: Mara River, Maasai Mara Game Reserve Governors II Moran Camp is hidden in the shadow of indigenous trees and re-creates the atmosphere of the original hunting camps. The river glides slowly past this spacious and luxurious camp. From every terrace you may see furtive bushbuck on the banks, crocodiles dozing on the sandbanks.

Facilities: 10 tents, dining tent, open bar, room service on request and shop. Suitable for children above eight years.

Tents: Private verandah, ensuite bathroom with open-air bath, hot and cold running water, gas and paraffin lamps. These tents do not provide a telephone.

Mara Safari Club
Location: Aitong Hills, Masai Mara
Mara Safari Club lies in the north-west of the Maasai Mara, at the foot of the Aitong Hills. The camp is located along the Mara River, giving all ensuite tents view of the river with hippos. The lodge is surrounded by well-cultivated gardens and indigenous trees.

Facilities: 50 tents, restaurant, bar, room service on request, shop, safety deposit boxes, children’s activities. Credit cards accepted.

Luxury Tents: these offer views of the river bank. Terrace and hairdryer provided,

Sports and Leisure: Outdoor pool, traditional Maasai dancers display, game drives, walking safaris, bird walks and hot-air balloon safaris.

Sabuk Lodge
Location: Northern Laikipia
Sabuk Lodge is a stunning wilderness destination, perched on the high banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in the Northern Frontier District, overlooking the Laikipia plateau and Samburu land. Sabuk Lodge was fashioned out of the local landscape, build with local materials, twisted wood and boulders.

Facilities: Five ensuite thatch cottages, dining areas, lounge, and safety deposit boxes . Credit cards accepted.

Cottages: These cottages have a private terrace offering stunning views over the rive gorge. These rooms do not provide a telephone.

Sports and Leisure: Guided bush walks, walking safaris with partial camel rides game, game drives bush breakfasts and river line fishing.

Loisaba Wilderness Lodge
Location: Northern Laikipia
Only a few miles from equator, this private game ranch is in a country of transcendent beauty. The view from Loisaba extends for hundred of miles to Mount Kenya and the Lolldaiga Hills. Constructed form tone local timber and thatch.

Facilities: Seven rooms, dining area, lounge, safety deposit boxes and babysitting. Credit cards accepted.

Rooms: Each rooms has large French windows that open onto a private deck projecting out of the escarpment, and a water hole few hundred feet below which draws continues wildlife. These rooms do not provide a telephone.

Sports and Leisure: Cliff-top pool, spa, tennis court, game drives, trekking, rafting and horse riding.

Ol Malo
Location: Northern Laikipia
Ol Malo or the place of the Greater Kudu is a ranch and game sanctuary that lies along the Uaso Nyiro River on the edge of Kenya’s Northern Frontier District. Build from natural rock with thatched roofs, Ol Malo is shaped by the rocks and the curve of ancient olive woods. The living area and dining room, each with an open fireplace for the cold evenings, have large windows facing a magnificent view

Facilities: Four cottages, dining area, lounge, children’s activities and babysitting. Credit cards accepted.

Cottages: These cottages, have private terraces overlooking the rugged bush and Mount Kenya and ensuite bathroom. These rooms do not provide a telephone.

Sports and Leisure: Pool, day and night game drives, horse and camel rides, nature walks, bush picnics, mountain biking and visits to the colourful nomadic Samburu.

Read more about trips going to the above mentioned safari lodge accommodations and tented camps in Kenya at www.mountkenyaclimbing.com: Kenya Safari Accommodations, Luxury Tented Camps Kenya, Kenya Hotels Lodges, Tented Camps, Beach Resort: Safari Accommodation.

Kenya Tour, Kenya safari, Kenya holiday: Kenya Safari trips: Kenya Wildlife Safaris

2008-07-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

Kenya Tour, Kenya safari, Kenya holiday: Kenya Safari trips: Kenya Wildlife Safaris

About Kenya
Kenya is the 'Land of the Lion King' and sits at the centre of the African safari experience, with an outstanding variety of wild animals and Big Five viewing opportunities. Although safaris are its greatest attraction, it is a country of great diversity with much more to offer than splendid wildlife. Essentially it is a place for outdoor living - the coast offers beaches and water-based activities, the mountains present a challenge to hikers and climbers, and the rolling savannahs are a game-viewers paradise.

The country sits astride the equator and offers fabulous scenery and a variety of tribal cultures. From its central location, the sacred peaks of Mt Kenya reign over a landscape primarily covered by grasslands and thorn trees, much of it enclosed within its many parks and reserves. To the west the spectacular Great Rift Valley is sprinkled with lakes teeming with a variety of birdlife, whose shores and surrounds are traversed by agricultural farmlands. To the east lies the promise of an idyllic beach holiday with the requisite white palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs. Inhabiting the highlands and Rift Valley are two of the most well known of the numerous tribal cultures, the Kikuyu farmers and the tall, red-clad Masai cattle herders. The coast is home to ancient Swahili civilisations and old port towns that are rich in a history of exotic spice trading and fighting.

Kenya has a sophisticated tourism infrastructure, with two major cities controlling the majority of the tourism trade. Nairobi, the capital, is the safari and hiking hub, situated in the cool Central Highlands, while on the east coast the hot and humid trading port of Mombasa functions as the gateway to the resorts and pristine beaches of the area. Sadly the heavy influence of tourism has meant excessive prices for safaris, souvenirs and most activities of interest to foreigners, as well as the constant hassle by touts, guides and sellers to part with as much money as they can dupe the guilty traveller into spending.

Despite this, the people are friendly and visitors can choose to do as little or as much as they like, and the combination of wildlife, together with its beaches and mountains, make Kenya a fantastic holiday destination.

From Amboseli, a relatively small park in South Kenya famed for herds of elephants and stunning views of Kilimanjaro, to the volcanic Chyulu range of hills, between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks, offering views over Kilimanjaro, the Taita Hills, and the Kenya Plains.

To the East, Tsavo is the largest National Park in the country, a place to really discover the secrets of the bush.

To the North in the arid lowlands beyond Mount Kenya is the Samburu National Reserve. It might not be able to match the extensive game populations of some of Kenya's other National Parks but is more than their equal in sheer beauty. Stretching through the centre of the country, the Rift Valley is the greatest geological fault in the world. For birds, wildlife and visitors in Kenya it is the deep blue waters of the crater lakes that prove irresistible.

To the West the Masai Mara is the unfenced Northern tip of the great Serengeti eco-system, a wedge of short-grassed plain and a haven for game of all kinds - 'The Big Five' are resident in higher concentrations here than perhaps anywhere else.

Only Kenya can offer such a wealth of scenic contrasts, complemented by the palm fringed Indian Ocean coastline, where the reef fringed coast teems with fish, or the historic island of Lamu where you will find only one car and miles of empty beaches.

NAIROBI:
About Nairobi:
It is the largest city between Johannesburg and Cairo, and a holiday in Nairobi is to experience the good, the bad and the ugly of urban Africa. The main reason people travel to Nairobi is to launch onto one of Kenya's famous wildlife safaris or a trip to the coast. The city itself offers buzzing markets, some interesting sightseeing and a lively nightlife.

When to travel:
A holiday in Nairobi can be taken virtually any time of year, although the summer months (November to February) are most popular with sunny, warm days. The altitude of the city makes for a moderate climate, and it can be fairly cool in winter, especially at night. The rainiest season is autumn.

Why trevel?
People who travel to Nairobi are usually those intent on a big game safari experience, using the city as a base for eco-tours and game viewing expeditions to Kenya's national parks and reserves.

More Information:
Health and safety are major considerations for anyone planning a holiday in Nairobi: check the current situation in respect of these issues, and find a host of other useful information in our Nairobi travel guide, which is updated regularly.

Overview
Nairobi is best characterised by its variety of locally-given descriptive names, representative of the city's contrasting images - of wealthy spacious suburbs, charming flower-lined streets and a refreshing climate, alongside crime, corruption, filth and poverty. Names like 'Green City in the Sun', 'City of Flowers' and the Masai name 'Place of Cool Waters' attempt to overshadow the all too real version of 'Nairobbery' that stands as a well-found warning to newly arrived tourists.

Nairobi is one of Africa's largest and most interesting cities. It is a place of enormous energy, a tireless and thriving bustle of people, and a city of differences. Assorted races, tribes and origins are all a part of its make-up. Rural immigrants and refugees are drawn by the hope of wealth and opportunity, international businessmen are attracted by profitable business prospects, and tourists are promised the makings of the perfect safari. The city centre buzzes with the energy, aspirations and opportunism of moneychangers, safari touts, would-be thieves, food vendors and trinket sellers, prostitutes, shoppers, security guards, and sharp-eyed shoe shiners assessing the footwear of the hurried throngs. Among them are the disillusioned faces of the unemployed, the beggars and the destitute.

Kenyatta Avenue is the city's favourite tourist image, a broad avenue fringed by trees and flowers that was originally designed to allow a twelve-oxen team to make a full turn. There are several museums and places of interest in the centre, including the National Museum and Snake Park. There are numerous markets selling traditional crafts, especially the appealing Masai market. Just outside of the centre is the Nairobi National Park, and the nearby Bomas of Kenya host performances of traditional dancing and singing. The Langata Giraffe Centre offers visitors the chance to hand-feed the Rothschild giraffes that inhabit the area.

Nairobi is also the safari capital of Africa and a good base for travel in Kenya. From here excursions and safaris can be arranged to any of the national parks or reserves in the country.

Masai Mara Wildbeest Migration 2008: Masai Mara Safari

2008-07-27T03:20:00.000-07:00

Masai Mara Wildbeest Migration 2008:
Finally wildebeests are in Masai Mara!

Just recently, the phenomenon wildebeest migration was recognized as the Seventh wonder of the world. This natural event takes place on July – October in Maasai Mara which lies 270 kilometers south east of Nairobi. The animals move from northern Serengeti plains in Tanzania across Mara and Telek Rivers in Maasai Mara.

If you have not been following this series or if this is your first time you are hearing about the wildebeest migration, here is an eye witness occurrences on this year's migration which has just started.

The light showers that swept across the central Mara over the last week have drawn more herds from the northern Serengeti. The Mara River, about 3 kilometers north of the south-Mara bridge, has been the main arena over the past few days. Heavy crossings have taken place as thousands of the Serengeti herds crossed west on the Mara Triangle. The river is still low, making the crossing a bit easy for the animals. Once in the Mara, these herds have taken a traditional route splitting into two, with one group heading west and crossing over the Mara River while the other, north into Meta and towards Burrungat plains - mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Our guests had a week full of excitement on game drives due the close proximity of the herds. and we are assured of even better things as the migration progresses! It's amazing to know that although this phenomenon is widely known as the wildebeest migration, it is the burchell's zebra who pioneer the pilgrim and they are usually the first ones to cross Mara river - mountkenyaclimbing.com.

We tend to believe, the main characteristic witnessed in Mara – that of the largest mass movements of ungulates is not the sole stuff that was considered to rate this event as a global wonder, but the drama itself. Listen! As these ungulates move in millions, thousands and hundreds, your interest should be focused on the predators rather than the 'Gnus' since they will definitely appear in your shots whether still or in video slots. Look out for the drama of: - the crocodiles in Mara and Telek rivers, the lions, leopards, and my favorite cat the cheetah, as they follow and hunt the herbivores. If you are not able to spot the carnivores, just look out for the scavengers both the hyenas and vultures and you will no miss one or two carnivores enjoying a kill as the vultures wait impatiently - mountkenyaclimbing.com.

The Northern (Loita) and the southern (Serengeti) herds have now merged on the south Mara triangle. The converging point is a recently burnt area where new nutritious shoots are beginning to sprout after the recent light showers. An interesting occurrence we have witnessed in the last two years, some of the Loita herds are starting to cross back at Paradise crossing point onto the eastern side of the river - where they had crossed the just previous week! The remaining animals from these herds have over the past week been streaming in small numbers towards Paradise Plains, with some crossing westwards onto Mara conservancy - mountkenyaclimbing.com.

About the predators, Lion sightings were remarkably high over the past week. There are not many lion cubs at the moment, but some females are expected to give birth over the next couple of months. Olkiombo Pride has settled east of Mara Explorer about 1.5kms along the main road from the airstrip. The Ridge Pride is still very active, with many attempted hunts being witnessed during the day in the past week as they respond to the pounding hooves of the migrating herbivores. The concentration of the herds is however still lower in their territory.

Encounters with cheetahs have now become more frequent than in the previous weeks. Leopards are also starting to get active and their sightings have improved remarkably. As the migration may have taken the name of Maasai Mara wildebeest migration, it will be of no importance to tell you about Mara alone without mentioning the Serengeti -mountkenyaclimbing.com.

The movement from Serengeti to Mara is also very interesting although it might not be as dramatic as the Mara triangle episode. This is how it goes – When the rain stops on May/June, they start to migrate from south of Serengeti to the central and west of Serengeti plains stretching as far as Grumeti game reserve and lake Victoria. From July they move northwest of Serengeti in Bolonga and Ikorongo game reserve and finally plunge into to Mara.

The first thing you should do when you see the first wildebeest in Mara, I guess is to clap for them. Just imagine the long journey they have to take every year sometimes passing through dry areas and going for days without water. This means only those which can do without water for a long period and can adapt to the poor forage reach Mara. You can also imagine the challenge of crossing Grumeti, Telek and Mara rivers. Clap anyway!

Around November, most of the pastures in Mara are exhausted and the animals start the cycle again to now greener pastures in south of Serengeti, Ngororongoro and Maswa game reserves. The best place to be if you missed the Mara and Telek drama is Lobo or Loliondo area in October and November. Likely, at this time, wildebeest and Zebras have made their way to south Serengeti, giving birth in a very short space of time making places such as Ndutu woodland and the surrounding plains a massive spotlight for predators.

You might be wondering – are the plains left empty during the migration? The answer is No. The migration does not mean that the plains are completely empty. There are many animals which do not follow the migration pattern and have become residents both in Mara and Serengeti. These include predators such as lions, leopard and cheetahs while herbivores include some wildebeest, Zebras, Gazelles, Impalas, Topi to mention but a few mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Although the migration has become a core attraction in Mara, it is still a lifetime experience to do and African safari and visit Mara anytime of the year. There is a lot of good stuff………www.mountkenyaclimbing.com!

See available Masai Mara wildebeest migraton safari trip and Masai Mara holiday offers with Mount Kenya climbing Expeditions.com
See you there!

Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya

2008-07-25T08:38:00.001-07:00

Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya
Masai Mara Safari: Maasai Mara Safaris: Masai Mara animal migration tour

Many who have been to Africa would say that one of their favorite African safaris is the Masai Mara. This is a national reserve, one of which has the most breathtaking views and one of which has the best African Safaris. Here are some of the reasons why this place is one of the lists of the most breathtaking views and one of the best African safaris.

This national reserve is located at the Great Rift Valley which it stretches from Ethiopia to Kenya and then to Tanzania, Malawi and to Mozambique. You can see the Ngama Hills on the east, where you will find leafy bushes and on the west you will find the Oloololo Escarpment where its plateau gives an amazing view from the distance.

In this reserve the largest part is the plains where you can see bushes, boulders, grasslands and wildlife roaming around such as wildebeests, giraffes, gazelles, leopards, jackals, hyenas, lions, foxes, cheetahs and many more. You will find black rhinos and hippos, the hippos you will most likely find at the Mara River. You will also find different sizes and colors of Mara birds and other birds like eagles and storks.

Not only does this reserve is breathtaking as it is yet this has its own distinct culture. This is because of the Masai people, they have many villages in the reserve and for centuries they have managed a relationship with wildlife.

Masai Mara Safari Kenya, Maasai Mara Tour Reviews , Rating and Vacation
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE:

Masai mara is “the” park of all parks in Kenya. The grass-carpeted smooth hills, the chocolate Mara river waters having mithful hippos, and the rich variety of fauna, fulfil the anticipations of any tourist looking African landscape displayed in motion pictures for example, “Out of Africa” or “Mogambo”. Save specific tastes and needs, this is the park leading the “must” list in the country: no tour to Kenya would be considered complete without touring Masai mara. It is true that it is not graded best for bird lovers and also true that some species are rare to find. But leopards and rhinos are plenty, and with over 450 bird species, the reserve should not envy Samburu or the great Kenyan bird places. Though, in a region just a bit smaller than the state of Rhode Island and with changed and complicated geography, getting lost is far quicker compared to finding a leopard or viewing a certain bird group in its various woods.

The reserve created in 1961, is found west of the Rift valley and is naturally part of the Serengeti plains in Tanzania. The Mara river, the reserve’s backbone crosses north south lading to its westbound way into Victoria lake, via the Tanzanian park. This course is the natural obstacle harvested yearly by the many moving herds including wild beets and zebra which move through the two parks. As elaborated below, over one million wild beasts and 200,000 zebras wonder while looking for the green pastures, meeting the crocodile crowded river on the way. When the herds cross the steam, multiple animals die flattened or drowned, leaving their bones at the ground at the ledge of Mara river. Masai mara is at its peak, with the seasoned tourists inhabiting the huge grasslands from July to October.

Masai mara’s place of location and height above sea level is 1500m, yield climate that is more mild and more damp compared to other places. The grassy landscape and the nutrient wealth for the big herds are supported by the adequate rains, which here fall from November to June, as a fusion of the two rain seasons (long and short) found in other Kenya places. Night storms are often in the hells and plains. Grasslands are scattered with acacia woods and bush. The grounds at the edge of river Mara and of the many tributary streams are defined by dense riverine forests with a good opportunity to get some of the reserve’s bird groups.

The long distance of the country’s recognized urban centres poses a difference that allows this reserve to maintain one of the characteristics which is currently becoming a strange event in African parks: wildlife wanders in total freedom, with no limits or other barriers around. Animals do not notice the limits drawn on the papers, not only those which separate Kenya from Tanzania, but also the boundaries of the reserved area.

The protected re is surrounded north and east by the so-called dispersal area, populated by the Maasai but in other words, similar to the province within the with exact or even more chances to view wildlife than at the reserve itself, often crowded by visitors arriving and moving around by car, minibus, airplane, balloon or micro light.

Since it is kept as reserve and not as national park, Masai mara is not controlled by Kenya wildlife service but rather by the local authorities, called District Councils. The problem comes with the administrative decisions, defined by river Mara. The eastern side is under Narok District, while the western sector is under Transmara District. This information, currently not important, is infact something one should have in mind in theory, the amount of money paid at the entrance is used to cater for touring the side belonging to the jurisdiction of the district through which the tourist has accessed. In practice, this condition is always overlooked, but just in case, its better you leave the park using the same district you used while entering.

And in this wildlife webwork, where do Maasai pit?. The normad pastoral tribe, which was feared in the past due to their warrior behaviour, populates these lands since the olden days. When Chief Lenana signed an agreement in 1911 with the colonial government, he agreed to sell the Maasai provinces and moving southward, in a bid to develop Nairobi’s urban centers. But the Masai mara area had been left already over the 19th Century, when epidemics and tribal warfare put to death the Maasai people and put them to a lower level, which they are still anticipating to recover from. Therefore, the ancient Maasai foretelling, which forecasted the coming of the colonialists also prophesied a future that would bring back the old magnificence days.

When the reserve was initiated in 1961, it was intended to conserve animals in a deserted and wild country, where wildlife was almost ending, because of a lot of killing done by white hunters. The protection of this region, leaving alone other factors, enabled re-inhabiting of the province by the Maasai, who were put under the control of the reserve’s management by the District Councils, by virtue of its status. Even if land conflicts are still going on, the preferred way for protecting this natural space attempts to give some reward to the Maasai through trading with visitors, both through campsite management, handcraft selling and tours to villages. All of it offers a permanent source of income, though scarce and unstable, for these people who fight for protectring their traditions against progress. Their aspect and legend overtime has turned them into a mythical tribe, which sparsely gives attention to the romantic image forged around them.

The fact is that the Maasai strive hard between their classical conservation and the attempt to join the files of industrial change looking for a better kept up life Their inclination to take a grip on tradition, has given hem a consent to sympathy and admiration from visitors looking for picturesque scenes, but also refusal from the more proceeding Kenyans, who believe that a normal pastoral tribe in the 21st Century’s world economy is doomed to poverty.

Currently, various Maasai customs are limited by law, for example, hunting of lions, whereas the rest, for example traditional hunting on blood and milk fall into disregard slowly by slowly. Meanwhile, visitors anticipate to find at the same time the Orzowei’s Maasai and a safe and peaceful country without poaching, with no cattle in the reserve and with no broad-snouted Indian crocodiles. A combination impossible, spare making it compulsory fro the Maasai to turn into something close to thermatic workers of the park youngsters putting on jeans and feeding on humbuggers that dress up at night in their parent’s clothes to execute their tribal dances of thousands of years ago. After all, some of it can be seen today in the pierced ears of various waiters and cooks of te lodge.

Read more with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions to see offers for trips to Masai Mara to include wildebeest migration tours.