Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Arusha National Park, Tanzania, East Africa

Arusha National Park, Tanzania, East Africa
Size: 137 sq km (53 sq miles).
Location: Northern Tanzania, northeast of Arusha town.

Arusha National Park is a smallest park in Tanzania's 'Northern Safari Circuit', about 45 minutes drive from the safari gateway town of Arusha.

The entrance gate leads into shadowy montane forest inhabited by inquisitive blue monkeys and colourful turacos and trogons – the only place on the northern safari circuit where the acrobatic black-and-white colobus monkey is easily seen. In the midst of the forest stands the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater, whose steep, rocky cliffs enclose a wide marshy floor dotted with herds of buffalo and warthog.

The park is made up of three particular features; lush swamps of the Ngurdoto Crater, changing colours of Momela Lakes and rugged alpine peaks of Mt Meru. Habitat ranges from highland montane forest to lowland swamp.

Passing first through wooded savannah where buffalos and giraffes are frequently encountered, the ascent of Meru leads into forests aflame with red-hot pokers and dripping with Spanish moss, before reaching high open heath spiked with giant lobelias. Everlasting flowers cling to the alpine desert, as delicately-hoofed klipspringers mark the hike's progress. Astride the craggy summit, Kilimanjaro stands unveiled.

Activities:
Forest walks, numerous picnic sites;
three- or four-day Mt Meru climb - good acclimatisation for Kilimanjaro.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Kenya Safari, African Safari Travel, Africa safari Kenya, African Safari Trip, Africa Travel & Safaris holiday



Kenya tours, Kenya travel and Kenya holiday trips:

Kenya is one of the most popular destinations for safaris in the world! It is famous for its 'Out of Africa' scenic beauty, diverse cultures and abundant wildlife. The coastline and tropical beaches are equally inviting.

The wildlife is the prime attraction of Kenya safaris, which take place in some of Africa's best-known national parks, including the Masai Mara, Tsavo, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru.

A Kenya safari contains a mosaic of different cultures and traditions. The people have the natural ability to make every traveller feel at home - Karibu, a Swahili word meaning 'welcome', is often heard.

Naturally, the Great Wildebeest Migration is a huge attraction for many visitors wanting to safari in Kenya. This mass movement of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra from the Serengeti in Tanzania, to Kenya's Masai Mara and back, is a phenomenal sight.

Timing your trip to coincide with the migration is tricky - the exact moment when the animals will pass through a specific area depends on highly unpredictable factors such as when the rains fall.

But rest assured, even if you don't have the luxury of time to play with, your game viewing experiences in Kenya will be rich and varied at any time of the year and it is best to go to Kenya during the migration period, July to October although January to March is ideal.

It's also a great destination for a family holiday: our range of Kenya family holidays will keep kids of all ages entertained and there's more than enough for the grown-ups too.

A safari is usually the last word in colonial style and you'll have the choice of staying in a range of accommodation in Kenya - anything from mobile safari tented camps, to fine old lodges steeped in tradition, to modern hotels designed to blend in with their safari surroundings.

Taking a Kenya safari tour is a great way to get a good overview of this large country. Our Kenya tours vary in length and either remain within the Kenya borders or incorporate Kenya as part of a larger itinerary.

Why not take the 4-day Masai Mara migration tour or combine your Kenya safari with Tanzania safari or Gorilla tracking in Uganda or try our Best of Tanzania & Kenya safari and get to see the best reserves Kenya and Tanzania have to offer. Check available options with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions at www.mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Kenya Safaris: Safaris in Kenya


Kenya Safaris: Safaris in Kenya

The highlight of most Kenya safaris is the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, widely regarded as the best game-viewing park in Kenya. The "Big Five" (lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants and rhinos) may be spotted here, and more than a million wildebeests and zebras migrate annually to Masai Mara from the parched Serengeti plains of neighboring Tanzania. Some Kenya safaris also visit Masai villages, where guests can interact with local cattle-herders.

In Kenya's semi-arid, rugged northern region lies the Samburu Game Reserve, a small oasis that is home to many rare animals, including Grevy zebras, long-necked gerenuk antelopes, Somali ostriches and reticulated giraffes. Kenya's Amboseli National Park is famous for its big game, including lions, cheetahs, baboons and large elephant herds that traverse the savannahs in search of watering holes or feeding grounds. Many Kenya safaris also visit Lake Nakuru National Park, a relatively small preserve that has been designated as a rhino sanctuary, and that is considered to be one of the finest places for bird-watching.

Most Kenya safaris travel through the cosmopolitan capital of Nairobi, which flourished in the early 1900s after the construction of a railroad to the Indian Ocean. While in Nairobi, tour guests might visit the nearby farm of Karen Blixen, author of "Out of Africa."

Kenya safaris are available year-round, although the best game-viewing periods are during the dry winter months of May through August and the warmer spring months of September and October.

Read more details on Kenya Safari and Safaris in Kenya with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions.

Lamu in Kenya - Kenya beach and Cultural Tour in Lamu:


Kenya beach and Cultural Tour in Lamu

Travelers to Lamu can expect a cultural tour and experience from a town rich in culture and heritage. Lamu consists of seven islands and numerous islets. Pate Island, Manda Island and Lamu Island are the largest of the Islands. Smaller islands include Kiwayu Island and Manda Toto. The largest town in the Lamu archipelago is Lamu town. Lamu town is a historic town with a rich history and feel.

As Kenya’s most archaic living town it has reserved all the charisma, allure and spirit accumulated over centuries of hosting various colonisers from Portuguese to Arabs. The holiday beach on Lamu Island is 12 kilometres of immaculate sands stretching out towards the Indian Ocean. Dense mangrove forests make the perimeter of mainland Lamu and the inland sides of the islands. The seaward sides are fringed by reefs and lined with dunes. Lamu is detached from the mainland at its narrowest part by a channel just a few metres wide. All over Lamu there are various historical sites that bear testament to the centuries of rich and fascinating existence that Lamu has enjoyed.

Most settlements in Lamu started as petite trading centres that gradually expanded. By the 16th Century, Lamu was a flourishing port exporting spices, slaves, lumber and ivory.

Most of present day Lamu was built during the rule of the Omani Arabs but the British began taking interest in the late 19th century. In 1895 the British East Africa Protectorate was established until Kenya gained independent in 1963. However, it is an Afro-Arab culture that emerged out of Lamu’s exposure to different occupiers. That culture known as Swahili culture is conspicuous today and Kiswahili is the Lingua franca of East and Central Africa. Lamu architecture has Arab, Portuguese, British and African influence. Lamu buildings have elaborately carved and brass furnished doors, open verandas and interior courtyards open to the sky which guarantee cover and tranquil against the tropical sun. It’s common to find open rooftops that are used as terraces where the family and guests can lay back and relax. Fort Jesus is located in Lamu town. The Fort was once converted into a prison but it’s currently a national cultural Monument protected by the Kenyan Government. This unique architecture has resulted in Lamu being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Lamu also has a Museum facing the oceanfront. The museum has an assortment of Swahili culture artefacts, furniture, utensils, jewellery and crafts. The prides of the collection are the Siwa, which are ceremonial horns. One belonged to a past Sultan of Pate Island, an island in the Archipelago and it’s made of Ivory. The other is from Lamu itself. Lamu being a maritime society the museum hosts a set of sea going vessels and there is a fantastic model of a rope sewn vessel known as mtepe.

It is often said that the pathways of Lamu are so constricted that one can shake hands with the neighbour of the house opposite the street. Lamu is a blasé town that continues with its activities as it has done for centuries. Njia Kuu is the main street in Lamu and is lined with children waving frantically and playing and all sorts of businesses from herbalists, grocers, fishmongers, restaurants and jewellers making silver laden ornaments. A 40-minute walk from the town (or 15 minutes by motor boat) brings you to the sleepy village of Shela. Shela village is a network of narrow sandy lanes where the only approaching traffic you are likely to meet is a donkey. This is where 12 kilometres of holiday beach begins and the complications of every day life are abandoned.

To sail the archipelago is to discover. The archipelago contains several archaeological/historical sites of great significance, such as Takwa and Manda Town both on Manda Island and Shanga on Pate Island. The Lamu archipelago islands are reputed to be one of the westernmost ports of call of the great Chinese fleet of Zheng He, or even to be the resting place of a wreck of one of his ships. Chinese pottery has been found among the ruins in Shanga to support this story.

For deserted and secluded island enthusiasts there are isolated beach hideaway at Kiwayu Island and Manda Island which are the ultimate ‘get away from it all’. From these paradise islands it is possible to visit the wildlife sanctuary at Dodori or the striking Kiunga Marine National Reserve. If that is still not enough you can visit Lamu for the Lamu cultural festival.

The accommodation available in Lamu includes;
Kijani House Hotel – This hotel is constructed in Swahili architecture style off the waterfront of Shela village. The lovely hotel has a tropical garden feel because of the pathway into the hotel compound that is lined with frangipani and bougainvillea flowers. Once within the compound there are two aquamarine pools blushing under the shade of Kunazi trees and palm trees. The hotel was restored from the ruins of three Swahili homes and it took a decade of careful reconstruction with traditional material to complete the retreat. There are10 spacious en suite rooms decorated with antiques, each with a canopied Swahili bed, and each with a private portico under the canopy of leafy trees. The cuisine offered in Kijani restaurant is traditional Swahili cuisine and Italian cuisine complimented tropical fruits and vintage cellar wines from Chile, South Africa and Italy. Kijani is closed during the off peak season in May and June.

Peponi Hotel - This resort is located on the periphery of Shela Village, 2km from Lamu Town and at the start of the stunning 12 km deserted beach. The hotel has 24 large ensuite rooms’ high Lamu style beds and safes. This hotel has been a landmark in Lamu for as long as the Islands popularity blossomed. The sea view from the rooms can be standard or superior depending on the room a guest may choose to have. There is a fresh-water free-form swimming pool, situated under two Baobab Trees overlooking the ocean. Water skiing, deep sea diving, Dhows trips around Lamu Island, scuba diving, full moon cruise with drinks, wine and lobster dinner and trips to archaic ruined forts to Takwa Ruins of Manda Islands are all activities that can be arranged for a guest by the hotel.

Kipungani Bay Hotel – This is resort is well-situated to all that Lamu Island has to offer. The Hotel has 15 en suite rooms each with a balcony/terrace. Various types of drinks are served in the cocktail lounge after meals in the restaurants that serve finger-licking international cuisine. There’s an outdoor pool where one can relax under the sun while sipping a cocktail or whatever drink. This dainty resort is only 10 km (6 miles) away from Lamu Island International Airport and is ideal for both business and leisure.

To check on Lamu in Kenya - Kenya beach and Cultural Tour in Lamu:, Beach holidays Lamu, Lamu beach safaris and vacations in Lamu see Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions offers for Lamu beach holiday vacaton trip.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Kenya and Tanzania Family Safari: Kenya family safari Kenya family safari

Kenya family safari Kenya family safari
Many people equate safari with East Africa. And to be fair, the term safari means “to travel” in Swahili. Think massive herds of animals, Masai warriors and wide open plains and an experience of a lifetime.

Of the two countries (Kenya and Tanzania), Kenya is definitely tops for family safaries. Tanzania is better for bigger children who don’t mind having their own room.

Many of the hotels in Kenya offer family rooms and many have superb kids programs. Here your children will learn to jump like a Masaai, track animals and even visit a local Maasai village and a Maasai school.

Kenya is a large country and the different game reserves and beach resorts are far apart. Getting around is either by minibus with a private driver or by air. The two can be combined as well, which works very nicely.

If you are on a budget then having a driver and vehicle in Kenya and Tanzania works well. The drivers do know the area very well, but they don’t tend to act as guides and often they struggle with English. If you particularly want a guide with you, then you should request that when you book. The drivers are well presented and reliable and know all the best places to stop and sightsee.

Be aware though that you are looking at between 3 and 5 hours in a car, so small kids may get bored. And the roads can be bumpy. Especially the road from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is like driving over a griddle pan.

The vehicles used in Kenya and Tanzania are mini buses, landcruisers and landrovers that seat 7 people, with a pop up roof for looking at the animals, wildlife and landscape photography and touring.

Flying around saves a lot of time and there are flights between all of the major attractions and parks.

Great things to add to your family safari in Kenya are the animal orphanage and the giraffe centre. It is a lot of fun for the while family to have a giraffe lick your hand while you feed it!

At the Carnivore restaurant you can eat interesting and unusual meat like zebra or crocodile. Certainly something to brag about in school!!

In the Masai Mara, family safari’s are taken very seriously. Kids learn to throw spears, make camp fires and traditional dancing.

End off your holiday with a few days on the beach in Mombassa where families can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, table tennis, diving, volley ball and much much more.

Make sure to book your trip to East Africa through a reputable operator though, it isn’t a place to get stuck without arrangements confirmed.

Family safari Tanzania: Family Safaris in Kenya, African Family Safari Travel - Family safari adventures in Kenya

Amboseli National Park: Amboseli Safari - Amboseli Lodge Safaris & Camping tour: Amboseli Lodge

Amboseli National Park - Basic Facts
Size: 392 sq kms
Province: Rift Valley
District: Kajiado
Geographical Location: On the Tanzanian border north-west of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Altitude: Up to 1,155m
Bird Life: More than 425 recorded species.
Visitor Facilities: Four lodges and several campsites.
Vegetation: Semi-arid acacias and grasses papyrus sedges in the swamp lands.
Fauna: Fifty-six species of mammal including baboon, vervet monkey, lion, cheetah, elephant, zebra, hippo, black rhino, Maasai oryx, wildebeest, gerenuk, impala and gazelle.

Amboseli National Park - General Information
Amboseli National Reserve (formerly Amboseli National Park), located at the foot of Africa's highest mountain, 5895-meter Mount Kilimanjaro, is one of the most popular of Kenya's national parks. Amboseli National Reserve (formerly Amboseli National Park) lies some 240 kilometers south-east of Nairobi very close to the Tanzania border. The snow- capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro rising above a saucer of clouds dominates every aspect of Amboseli. Amboseli was gazetted as a national park in 1974; it covers only 392 square kilometers but despite its small size and its fragile ecosystem it supports a wide range of mammals, well over 50 of the larger species, and birds with over 400 species.

Amboseli National Reserve lies immediately North West of Mt. Kilimanjaro, on the border with Tanzania. Amboseli was established as a reserve in 1968 and gazetted as a National Park in 1974. The Park covers 392 km2, and forms part of the much larger 3,000 Km2 Amboseli ecosystem. Large concentrations of wildlife occur here in the dry season, making Amboseli a popular tourist destination. It is surrounded by 6 communally owned group ranches.

Amboseli National Park embodies 5 main wildlife habitats (open plains, acacia woodland, rocky thorn bush country, swamps and marshland) and covers part of a pleistocene lake basin, now dry. Within this basin is a temporary lake, Lake Amboseli, that floods during years of heavy rainfall. Amboseli is famous for its big game and its great scenic beauty - the landscape is dominated by Mt. Kilimanjaro on the Tanzania side but best seen from Kenya side.

Accessibility to the Reserve
The main route into the park is along the C103 from Namanga, on the Nairobi - Arusha (Tanzania) road, via Meshanani Gate. This road is badly corrugated and potholed in places. It is also possible to enter via Kelonyeti Gate on the C103 from the Chyulu Gate in Tsavo West National Park. Lemito Gate can be accessed from a road which joins the C102 road from Sultan

Hamud on the main Nairobi - Mombasa road. The track from Namanga to Kitirua Gate goes through Tanzania and is not presently used. Buses from Nairobi go as far as Namanga, and hitching would be necessary to get into the Amboseli National Park. This is usually difficult, as most vehicles entering the park are safari company minibuses and walking within the park is prohibited.

Lodging & Camping in Amboseli
Lodging in the Amboseli National Reserve includes the Amboseli Serena Lodge with 182 beds, the Amboseli Lodge with 240 beds and the Kilimanjaro Safari Lodge, also with 240 beds. Outside of the park, the Kilimanjaro Buffalo Lodge offers 200 beds while the Kimana Lodge has 112 beds for visitors. The campsites in Amboseli National Park are run by Masaai communities.

Although they are technically just outside of the park boundary, they can only be accessed from within the park. Payments are made directly to the Masaai communities.There is only one Public Campsite in Amboseli, sometimes referred to as the Group Ranch. It is quite large but popular with low-budget camping safari companies so that it can get rather crowded and noisy at times.

This site is just outside of the park boundary, south-west of Observation Hill. There are pit toilets here and a water supply which is not always reliable, so water has to be brought from one of the lodges at times. The special Nairushari Campsite is used by higher budget camping safari companies, located in a secluded site through the south-west corner of the park near Ilmbireshari Hill. There is firewood here, but bring your own food and water.

Further Information and Booking
Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions operates a wide range of carefully designed tours and safaris to Mt. Kenya National Park by providing transport and booking hotels for you. Our safari consultants will always be at your assistance should you need a tailor-made holiday to this unique destination. For more information regarding this topic, see more details at www.mountkenyaclimbing.com.

Amboseli National Park: Amboseli Safari - Amboseli Lodge Safaris & Camping tour: Amboseli Lodge - Amboseli Lodge - Safari to Amboseli - lodge Safaris Amboseli, Kenya: Amboseli Serena Lodge

Lodges in Amboseli National Park:
Amboseli Lodge, Amboseli
Amboseli Serena Lodge, Amboseli
Amboseli Sopa Lodge, Amboseli
Ol Kanjau - Amboseli
Ol Tukai Lodge - Amboseli
Amboseli Porini Camp
Tortilis Camp - Amboseli

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Kenya safari - African safari and beach vacations in Kenya

Going on Kenya Safari and an African Safari brings up images of wild animals in their natural habitat, exotic African scenery, a hint of danger and adventure and wonderful opportunities for photographers. Traveling to Africa on safari is still an unusual choice but one many people would like to enjoy and want to talk about with those who have been, sharing in their memories.

In Kenya you can mix the idyllic experience of a tropical beach vacation on the warm Indian Ocean with an East African wild animal safari expedition. Combining the two makes for a unique holiday. Part of your vacation is filled with excitement as you observe African wildlife at close quarters, while part is spent relaxing and soaking up the sun on a sandy beach.

A beach and safari break in Kenya is an exotic getaway from the daily routines of city life. It also makes for the ideal honeymoon for newly weds, with time to relax as well as a touch of adventure.

East Africa, including Kenya, does not yet have a high profile as a holiday destination in America, but is growing in reputation as a unique vacation experience. Europeans, and the British in particular, have less distance to travel to Africa, and have been been the mainstay of Kenyan tourism, attracted by the unique mix of the tropical beach and African safari vacation. Luxury vacations have become more affordable as European currencies have strengthened, prompting investment in Kenyan tourist facilities.

Kenya enjoys a near perfect year-round climate for vacationers. There is an annual rainy season between May and July each year, but the rains come in short tropical bursts that should not detract from the enjoyment of your Kenya holiday.

There is a lot to do in Kenya. By combining an exciting African safari adventure with a relaxing and secure tropical beach resort vacation, visitors can experience a unique holiday that is distinctive to Kenya.

Most of the Kenyan beach resorts and hotels are located about an hour’s drive from Mombasa Airport. They offer sandy beaches and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean. There is a choice of accommodation for all pockets, from budget hotels to top level luxury five star resorts.

There are a wide variety of safari options to choose from. A night or two away on safari in the Tsavo National Parks may meet all your wildlife viewing expectations without having to travel very far from your beach resort. This can be just a simple safari adventure, or you can choose various added features and luxuries.

Traveling further to Nairobi, you can experience your safari in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Luxury facilities and safari themed accommodation in a 4-5 night expedition will more than complement a luxury beach resort vacation on the coast. You can choose other options as you wish.

Whatever safari tour you choose is sure to be a memorable experience. You may see more varied wildlife in the Masai Mara, but there is an abundance of animals in both parks that will ensure your visit is eventful and thrilling. You will be guided by safari experts who will make sure you enjoy your visit, and keep you safe as you view the animals close up.

A beach safari holiday on an African safari vacation in Kenya is an exciting choice, with options available to suit both travelers on a budget and those seeking a luxury experience.

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Check out the available myriad of African safari trips with Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

National Parks of Kenya and Kenya National Parks,

Kenya National Parks

The parks range from the snow capped mountains to the low savannah grasslands; from the scenic knuckle shaped ranges of the Aberdares national park to the rough arid national parks of Samburu, Shaba and buffalo springs; from the undulating picturesque landscape of the rift valley to the central green and lush central Kenya highlands; from the white powdery sandy beaches with turquoise colored water to the inland blue-green crater lakes; from the savannah grass of Masai Mara to the mangrove forests of the coast. The Kenya tour wildlife found in these parks is equally diverse as the vegetation and landscape.

One of Kenya's original Nairobi National Parks established in 1948, it features 117 sq. kms of pristine savannah and yet is only 8 kms from the city centre. Large populations of Giraffe, Wildebeest, Eland and Gazelle dominate the plains. Of the big five only the Elephant has not been spotted. Prides of Lions appear at the entrance of Mbagathi Gorge. This park, so convenient to the business traveler also offers the spectacle of a Nairobi silhouette on the near horizon. Bounded by the Athi River to the south with its Hippo pools, here there are two animal orphanages including Daphne Sheldrick's Home for Orphaned Elephants and Rhinos.
Accommodation: Masai Safari Lodge

TSAVO NATIONAL PARK
At 20,807 sq. kilometers, Tsavo is larger than Wales and Jamaica. The Park lies midway between Nairobi and Mombasa. Its red earth characterizes its rivers and Elephants. A safari here will turn your hair red! The Chyulu Hills feed Mzima Springs with 20 million litres of crystal clear water daily. A remarkable oasis supporting Hippos, Crocodiles, Gazelle, Zebra, Giraffe and thick Acacia forests filled with chattering Birds and Monkeys. Outstanding vantage points include Ngulia Escarpment and Voi out in the east. The Chyulu Hills out west and the outstanding lava flows/cones, as at Shitani (near Kilaguni Lodge), are a fascination unequalled to many geologists.
Accommodation: Salt Lick/Taita Hills, Ngulia Safari Lodge, Finch Hatton Camp, Voi Safari Lodge, Lake Jipe Lodge and Kilaguni Serena Lodge

AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
One of the most popular National Parks right on the Tanzania border, offering a unique spectacle - the backdrop is snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro. Located 165 kms S.E. of Nairobi and encompassing 392 sq kms. The park is entered from the North via Namanga. You can expect to see a proliferation of Giraffe and Elephant. The 56 species here includes Baboon, Velvet Monkey, Lion, Cheetah, Rhino, Zebra, Wildebeest and Grant's gazelle. With a seasonal lake that attracts Flamingo, birdlife spotted in this region includes the Taveta Golden Waver and the Malachite Kingfisher.
Accommodation: Amboseli Lodge, Amboseli Serena Lodge, Kilimanjaro Safari Lodge, Ol-tukai Lodge and Tortilis Tented Camp.

MASAI MARA GAME RESERVE
The Masai Mara is located in the southern Kenya tourism circuit right in the midst of the vast savannah landscape with unending vistas of grass, velds supports the highest numbers of wildlife in Kenya Masai warrior country. The sheer numbers of the fearful, leaping and kicking wildebeest catches the crocodile by surprise forcing them to give way from the stampede and guaranteed death from trampling. Since food is moving, the predators, including the awesome African lion accompany the blue wildebeest across valleys, velds and rivers as they eat the sick, weak, old and the lost ones in the Africa’s grandest wildlife march. Nothing is as breathtaking as observing the wildebeest river crossings in the Masai Mara. This keeps the crocodiles happy for the next month or two. I guess they must be impatiently watching their calendars by now for the next annual wildebeest’s migration in the Masai Mara.

The Mara's gentle fertile climate bounded by The Rift Valley, offers perhaps the richest stocked reserve set within some 1672 sq kms - an unlimited spectacle of wildlife. Located 268 kms west of Nairobi, the emphasis here is on game. Herds of immense Elephants, browse among Lion, Buffalo, Thompson's Gazelle, Zebra and Topi. You may occasionally sight a Rhino or Leopard. In the Mara River Hippos play and Crocs bask on the banks. The annual migration of millions Wildebeests follows the rains north. It is only in the Masai Mara that a herd of elephants will graze together.

Accommodation: Governor's Camp, Kichwa Tembo Camp, Mara Interpids Club, Mara Serena Lodge, Mara Sarova Camp, Mara Simba Lodge, Mara Sopa Lodge, Mara Safari Club, Keekorok Lodge, Ol Kuruk Mara and Siana Springs

HELL’S GATE and MOUNT LONGONOT NATIONAL PARKS
The distance between Nairobi and Lake Naivasha is 90 km, near the Hell's Gate National Park which is located between Naivasha Lake and Longonot and Suswa volcanoes.
The park provides a variety of wildlife, unusual flora and many species of birds and is one of the two only Kenyan parks where climbing, walking and biking are allowed, the other park walking is allowed is Crescent Island in Lake Naivasha. Covered by ashes from the Longonot eruption which occurred hundreds of years ago, the park is famous for its geothermal station, Lower Gorge and spectacular sceneries (cliffs, volcanoes, gorges, geothermal steam).

The park has very good and well equipped camping sites and there is a large choice of popular water sports, bird and game viewing in private ranches and walks at Crescent Island and Crater Lake. The Hell’s gate and Lake Naivasha are ideal venues for a weekend retreat.

MOUNT LONGONOT NATIONAL PARK:
Hills climber should not miss the opportunity to climb the immense Mt Longonot (2,776 m - 8,328 ft) rising in the arid plains of the Rift Valley. You need to count one hour to access the top of the lowest rim and 3 hours to follow the path around the narrow edge of this almost perfect conical shape crater filled with dense bushed and wooden vegetation. The Mount Longonot is a Kenyan National Park (52 km2) and game abounds on the slopes of Longonot, particularly on the west side. Lake Naivasha, one of the largest freshwater lake of Kenya and close to Nairobi, the lake is the favorite destination for most of people from Nairobi. The lake offers a lot of attractions, like the Crater Lake, the Joy Adamson house, the Crescent Island and sport activities.

Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Country club or after the day out you can drive back to Nairobi hotels.

ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK
In this range of mountains everything is on a grand scale. The highest is 13,120 feet. Mutant Alpine plants include the 18 feet high Seneccio - flowering only once in 20 years! Huge trees cover the lower foothills. This fairyland of awesome majesty and beauty - a unique ecosystem is fuelled by the perpetual and sometimes heavy rains. Teeming with fish, crystal clear streams feed icy rivers, which plunge in glorious waterfalls, the grandest acquiring its name from Thompson who explored the area in 1883. At its east lies The Ark and Treetops on the Elephant migration trek to Mt. Kenya. You may also see the Rhino.

Accommodation: The Ark, Treetops Lodge and Aberdare Country Club.

LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Nakuru and nearby (about 12 kms) Elementaita, playing host also to Cormorants, Pelicans, Black Winged Stilts, Avocets and in winter a mass of Ruffs. Just north is the Menengai Crater (85 sq. km). This protected habitat also supports a few Lions and herds of Buffalos. Tall Acacia trees forest game includes an occasional Leopard or Black Rhino. Close by is Lake Elementaita.

Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Lodge and Lake Elementaita Lodge.

MOUNT KENYA NATIONAL PARK
Aqua fresh mountain air, glorious views, peace and tranquility. This, the country's highest mountain sits astride the Equator. This National Park skirts the 10,500 feet contours and encompasses three principal zones upwards. First, bamboo jungle and thick mountain forests dress the vast gentle slopes; then the alpine zone with its giant vegetation, including the Giant Groundsel, towering some 18 feet in height. Finally the rock peaks perpetually clad in glaciers and snow-fields. Game is best spotted below the park boundary in and around the forest from the Mountain Lodge.
Accommodation: Sweetwater’s Tented Camp, Mount Kenya Safari Club, Naro Moro River Lodge and Mountain Lodge.

SAMBURU, BUFFALO SPRINGS & SHABA GAME RESERVE
Get away delight for the connoisseur who may well chance upon a Leopard. Dramatically hot under the harsh equatorial sun, watered by the Ewaso Nyiro River, rich in huge Nile crocodile & hippo, Samburu is 331 kms North of Nairobi and set within the lands of the colorful Samburu Pastoralists. The reserve contains rarely found species including Reticulated Giraffe, Blue legged Somali Ostrich, Grevy’s Zebra and the long-necked Gerenuk (Antelope Giraffe). Within Shaba we have the sharp contrast of riverine forest around the four springs within its rugged wilderness.
Accommodation: Samburu Serena Lodge, Buffalo Springs Lodge, Shaba Sarova Lodge, Samburu Lodge, Larsen’s Camp and Samburu Intrepids Club

MERU
Best remembered as the setting where Elsa, Joy Adamson's lioness, was returned to the wild, Meru provides a stunning combination of diverse habitats. On the lower slopes of Mt. Kenya, it remains an un-spoilt wilderness. Dense riverine forests attract Leopards, and a full complement of 'the big five' including Black Rhino, in a dramatic setting adorned with doum palms. Over 300 species of birdlife have also been recorded. Wooded thorn bush and grasslands in volcanic rock, give way to open red soil grasslands over in the east. Highlights include Mulika Swamp and the noisy Adamson's fall where the Rojweru and Tana rivers converge.

MWALUNGANJE
Just north-west of Shimba Hills lies Mwalunganje watered by the Manolo River, a favorite haunt of big tusker male Elephants, and where they take their entertaining mud baths. The area with its surrounding thick forest became a reserve to open up a connecting corridor for the elephant trek south en-route to Shimba Hills. The conservation area is recognized for its role in the development of young independent male Elephants in their demanding life ahead. The terrain is diverse, riverine forest gives way to deciduous woodlands and dry baobab bush land, here the rare Sokoke Scops Owl can be sighted.

SHIMBA HILLS
This relatively compact game sanctuary of 192 sq kms is just 30 kms from Mombasa and comprises rainforest, which opens out into gentle hills, rolling savannah and riverine forest. Sea breezes maintain a cool climate. Here Elephants can be seen trailing their young, the graceful Giraffe, numerous species of Antelope and on occasion the proud and magnificent Lion. Both Taita Hills Lodge and the distinctive thatched towers of Salt Lick, provide the traveler with Hilton amenities and service. Tents at Taita Hills satisfy a thirst for a bush safari.

National Parks of Kenya and Kenya National Parks,

Kenya Safari: African Holidays: Kenya affordable safari trips

Kenya Safari: African Holidays: Kenya affordable safari trips

Mount Kenya Cimbing Expeditions offers African safaris and holiday adventures, a unique East Africa tour operator and Travel Agency offers Luxury tours and holidays in Africa. We make lanning vacations easy. Our knowledge of safaris to Africa is based on many years of exploring Africa. We specialize in tailor-made safaris in Africa's classic parks and genuinely offer the best travel advice to ensure we create personalized vacations to satisfy your travel. We will take you back in time when an African safari was adventures, a time to explore and enjoy outstanding service of Africa's top travel guides .

Kenya
Kenya safaris or luxury safari to Kenya: you always dreamed of a vacation in Kenya, reputed for excellent tourism, over 40 Game Reserves, untamed wildlife and white soft sand of Kenya coast we offer holidays ranging from Masai Mara safari to witness the greatest annual wildebeest migration tour, Mt Kenya climbing adventure, Amboseli flying family holiday, discover Mombassa beach honeymoon vacation and Samburu budget camping safaris

Tanzania
Safari in Tanzania means travel in Swahili language. We are the original tour company in Tanzania offering quality safaris to Ngorongoro crater, animal migration tours in Serengeti, chimpanzee tracking in Gombe stream, climbing mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania bird watching and ornithological safaris honeymoon vacations in Zanzibar Island, family holidays in spice island and luxury beach resorts of pemba island.A variety of accommodation in Kenya and Tanzania is offered from lodge, hotels and safari tented camps

Uganda
Uganda safaris and tours is fun and adventures Mountain gorilla tracking is a must, visit our greatest cousins, the chimpanzees and primate gorillas. We organize Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trek forest primate treks, Uganda bird watching safari, gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi forest and virunga volcanoes

Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration: Migration Safaris in Kenya

Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration: Migration Safaris in Kenya:

Kenya wildebeest Migration safari or Great Animal Migration tour in Masai Mara takes pace between Serengeti national park Tanzania and Kenya Masai Mara Game reserve who until recently was voted the seventh wonder of the world. The wildebeest migration tour in East Africa provides one the greatest spectacle of animal movement on the planet. The wildebeest annual migration in Kenia largely depends on the rains, between June and October the animals congregate in the savannah of East Africa, the setting of the world biggest animal’s movement. 450 animal species take a 300 miles African journey from Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara Game reserve Kenya, unfortunately a lot of them don’t make it , falling prey to lions leopards , crocodiles and drowning in the Mara river .

Mount Kenya Climbing Expeditions operate classic safari tours along the Masai Mara Migration route and accommodation in lovely rustic Tented safari camps, Lodge and Budget or luxury camping in Masai Mara or Serengeti. Guaranteed rooms in Sopa Mara lodge and Serengeti Sopa Lodge.

Below is an example of a wildebeest migration tour in Kenya to Masai Mara:

Day 1: Nairobi / Jacaranda
On arrival at Jomo Kenyatta Airport, you will be met and transferred to the Jacaranda Hotelwhere you will be staying on a bed and breakfast basis.
Dinner and overnight at The Nairobi Safari Club
Meals plan : BB

Day 2: Sweetwaters
After breakfast, take a journey north through the Equator to this private game sanctuary. Arrive in time for lunch at Sweetwaters Tented Camp. Afternoon is free for optional activities as game viewing, walking safaris or night game drives. Overnight at Sweetwaters Tented Camp
Meals : B,L,D.

Day 3: Mountain Lodge
Depart Samburu after breakfast and drive to the lower slopes of Mt. Kenya arriving Serena Mountain Lodge (tree hotel) in time for lunch. Relax the afternoon away as you watch game from the balcony with an optional guided nature walk. Overnight floodlit game viewing - Mountain Lodge rightfully boasts of having the highest record of animal visits and sightings in the area. Dinner and overnight..
Approx Transit time: 3½ hrs
Meal plan: {B, L, D}

Day 4: Lake Nakuru
Depart Mountain Lodge in the morning and drive to the floor of the Rift Valley - to Lake Nakuru National Park making a brief stop at Nyahururu Thomson Falls. Arrive Lake Nakuru Lodge in time for lunch. Afternoon game drive.

Besides the flamingos that the lake is famous for, there are approx 400 other species of birds visiting the lake. Also, many species of game can be found in the park including the introduced Rothschild's giraffe, black and white rhino, waterbuck, reedbuck, lion, buffalo, leopard, baboon and many species of plains game. Dinner and overnight at the Lake Nakuru lodge.
Approx Transit time: 3 hrs
Meal plan: {B, L, D}

Day 5: Lake Nakuru/Maasai Mara
Depart Lake Nakuru after breakfast and drive further along the floor of the Rift Valley to Maasai Mara Game Reserve arriving Mara Simba Lodge in time for lunch. Afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight Mara Simba Lodge
Approx Transit time: 6 hrs
Meal plan: {B, L, D}

Day 6: Maasai Mara
Spend the day in Maasai Mara, Kenya's most popular game sanctuary where you will have the best opportunity of spotting the Big Five - lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant.Game drives are flexible, with the option of going out with picnic lunch boxes to spend entire day in the the park, or you can choose to have early morning and late afternoon game drives.

You will also have the option of visiting a local Maasai village (US$25 per person).
All meals and overnight Mara Simba Lodge
Meal plan: {B, L, D}

Day 7. Maasai Mara / Nairobi
Depart Maasai Mara in the morning and drive back to Nairobi arriving approx 13:00hrs. Drop at Jacaranda Hotel. Lunch on own account / afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis. Optional dinner at the Carnivore Restaurant.
overnight Nairobi Safari Club
Approx Transit time: 6 hrs
Meal plan: {B,B}

Day 8: Arusha/Ngorongoro
Depart Nairobi in the morning.Lunch at Impala Hotel Arusha then proceed to Ngorongoro crater rim. Dinner and overnight at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge.
Approx Transit time: 4 hrs
Meal plan: {L, D}

Day 9: Ngorongoro
After breakfast descend down to the crater floor for ½ day crater tour, returning to Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge for lunch. Afternoon at leisure with optional visit to a local Maasai village. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Meal Plan: {B, L, D}
Pls note: Only ½ day tours may be allowed at the crater.

Day 10: Tarangire National Park
After breakfast depart for Tarangire, arriving in time for lunch. Afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight at Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Approx Transit time: 2 hrs
Meal plan: {B, L, D}

Prices include:
- Transportation in a custom safari minibus
- Services of a trained and experienced English speaking driver/guide
- Fullboard accommodation in the lodges as mentioned
- Game drives and all park entry fees

Not included:
- International air transportation to and from Arusha
- Expenses of personal nature such as visas, travel/baggage insurance, laundry, beverages, tips etc


Masai Mara animal migration tour and Ngorongoro flying safari with Kenya travel agent offering Tanzania balloon air safari vacations in Kenya lodge migration holidays in Mombasa family beach tours, maasai mara migration, Masai Mara Migration safari packages.

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