SAFARIS

DAY 1.

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to the “Safari Capital” and Mecca for Adventurers and Travelers from all over the world. Nairobi has since the advent of African wildlife adventures, been the starting point. All areas of interest are a short flight away by light aircraft. It’s a major African hub for most International Airlines.

The city has not lost its sense of the past as is showcased in the Museum of Natural History. Kenya has long been considered as home of the ancient origin of human development and boasts some of the most significant fossil sites in the world. The museum is among the ten best in the world holding many of the most important hominid and hominoid fossils.

Nairobi National Park is a 44 square miles, of plains, cliffs and forest all within the city boundaries. It is home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, Leopard and a large number of Lions are all also found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town. At the main entrance, there is Animal Orphanage and the Nairobi Safari Walk for those with less time to explore.

Nairobi Serena is one of Nairobi’s finest Hotels standing amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of Nairobi Central Park. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST: NAIROBI SERENA OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/nairobi.pdf

DAY 02 and 03

OL’ DONYO WUAS “Wild Paradise” Tucked away in the spectacular Chyulu Hills is a model wilderness lodge - Ol Donyo Wuas. This 22-bed, luxury eco-lodge is set high above the heat and malaria of the tropics on a 275,000 acres of community-owned concession near Amboseli National Park.

All the Cottages have stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, efficient solar-powered lighting, and solar-heated showers in the en-suite bathrooms, and feature décor that is modern and luxurious as well as rustic and comfortable in the tradition of the great wilderness lodges.

Ol Donyo Wuas and the Maasai people are partners in the operation of the Camp and subsidiary businesses. The Maasailand Preservation Trust is the lodge's link with the people of the area and the Trust maintains a series of important projects including predator conservation, education, water management, reforestation, and livestock management training. Visitors are not just tourists, but participants and contributors to the survival of the region's fauna and flora and the advancement of a noble people.

Major attractions include the Red Elephants colored by the soils, recent Lava flow (Shetani) and a lava ridge where filtered water gushes out in a series of clear pools and there is a glass underwater observation pool for Hippo, crocodile and variety of fish species. A highlight of your stay is to go horseback riding and mingle with the wild animals.

Full BOARD, OL’DONYO WUAS

Useful Links:

http://www.oldonyowuas.com

DAYS 04 and 05

MERU NATIONAL PARK "Complete Wilderness" This morning, we embark for a 1 hr. scheduled flight to Meru National Park. The untamed wilderness of Meru National Park is best explored from its hidden jewel – Elsa’s Kopje. The lodge is invisible to the eye as you approach the kopje (rocky outcrop). Each of the 9 individually built cottages are luxuriously appointed, and here you’ll find the ultimate ‘room with a view’

Meru National Park Meru is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya astride the equator. It has unique wilderness characteristics and pristine environmental qualities hard to find in other conservation areas. Meru National Park is former home to Joy and George Adamson, best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”, which depicts the story of Elsa, an orphaned lioness cub they raised and later released into the park.

Other attractions include a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy zebra, Somali ostrich, and recently discovered naked mole rat. It is home to Africa's big five: elephants, lions, leopard, rhino and buffalo. It also offers a very rich diversity of birdlife, rocky outcrops, 14 permanent rivers, and Adamson’s Falls.

FULL BOARD: MERU ELSA KOPJE,

Useful Links:

http://www.elsaskopje.com/

DAYs 06, 07 and 08

MAASAI MARA “African Vista” A short flight over both escarpments of the Great Rift valley will take us to Maasai Mara.

Maasai Mara is without a doubt Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and now the "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World". It is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

It offers the breathtaking views seen in the film, ‘Out of Africa’ much of which was filmed here. This unique eco-system protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth. It is the site of the most dramatic of all wildlife events: the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles. Beginning in late June, they come - more than one million strong - from the plains of the Serengeti and cross the Tanzanian border and rivers to reach the Mara’s lush grassland. They are hunted by predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Nestled in a lush riverine forest below the location where “Out Of Africa’s” famous final scene was filmed is Bateleur Camp. An intimate Tented Camp where each tent features a private deck overlooking plains of Maasai Mara and a private butler for each tent.



Full Board Bateleur Tented Camp. Or Similar

Useful Links:

http://www.andbeyondafrica.com

DAY 09   Nairobi

Drive or take a scheduled flight to Nairobi. Enjoy lunch, freshen up in a day-room, or take an optional tour to the National Museum. Have dinner and transfer to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

DAY 1.

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to The Green City in the Sun, a former capital of British East Africa, and Mecca for Adventurers, Hunters and Travelers from all over the world. Today, it’s the financial and commercial capital of East and Central Africa.

The city hosts an excellent Museum of Natural History ( a must see) holding many of the important hominid and hominoid fossils from myriad of sites along the Great Rift Valley.

Nairobi National Park is a113sq kms of plains, cliffs and forest within the boundary of the city and home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, and a large number of Lions are all found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town.

Nairobi Serena is one of Nairobi’s finest Hotels standing amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of Nairobi Central Park. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST: NAIROBI SERENA OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/nairobi.pdf

DAYS 02 AND 03

Meru National Park- "A Complete Wilderness" After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through small holder farms as well as big coffee and pineapple plantations. The finest coffee in the world is grown along the route. Stop for photos at the Equator and enjoy lunch at the fabled Mount Kenya Safari Club with its magnificent views of majestic Mount Kenya. After lunch, proceed north and around Mount Kenya to Meru National Park.

Meru is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya astride the equator. It has unique wilderness characteristics and pristine environmental qualities hard to find in other conservation areas. Meru National Park is former home to Joy and George Adamson, best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”, which depicts the story of Elsa, an orphaned lioness cub they raised and later released into the park.

Other attractions include a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy zebra, Somali ostrich, and recently discovered naked mole rat. It is home to Africa's big five: elephants, lions, leopard, rhino and buffalo. It also offers a very rich diversity of birdlife, rocky outcrops, 14 permanent rivers, and Adamson’s Falls.

FULL BOARD AT ONE OF THE LODGES IN THE PARK

Useful Links:

http://www.elsaskopje.com/

DAYS 04 & 05.

MARSABIT NATIONAL RESERVE “This Place is God’s Gift” Drive up north to Marsabit National Reserve that consists of a forested mountain that rises like an oasis in the middle of the desert wilderness and is the only source of permanent surface of water in the region.

The reserve has three spectacular crater lakes that provide habitat for a variety of birdlife. One of the lakes, Lake Paradise, is most scenic and famous from early films and writings of Martin Johnson and Vivien de Wattville.

Marsabit reserve is also known because of large elephants like the famous Ahmed, an elephant that was provided with a 24 hour protection by a presidential order. Ahmed, who boasted some of the biggest tusks ever recorded, died at age 55, and his body was preserved and is now on display in Nairobi National Museum.

Main attractions include pristine forest where one takes guided walks accompanied by a ranger, scenic landscapes, crater lakes where elephants take a day to go round and diverse birdlife. A visit to the singing water wells is a highlight of the stay.

Full Board Marsabit Lodge.

DAY 06

Lake Turkana “Jade Sea” “On the traces of Richard Leakey and John Le Carre* you will have a unforgettable adventure into a desert combined with comfort”

Charter a flight to the far north of Kenya where Lake Turkana - the Jade Sea lies.. It is set in the rugged moons-cape of the Great Rift Valley; an area tortured over the eons by immense volcanic activity. It is the place where mankind was born. It is a place for the traveller not the tourist.

The existence of this great lake (250 kms long and nearly 60 kms at the widest point) became known to the western world in 1889 when Count Teleki returned to Zanzibar from an epic 3200 km journey of discovery which had taken 21 month, (and during which he lost 40 kg in weight!). He had named the lake "Rudolf" after the Austrian Crown Prince, a name which remained until 1975 when it was changed to Turkana an honour of the most numerous of the peoples who live in the region.

In the southern tip of the Lake is a small settlement called Loiyangalani - named after a scanty shrub of the area - and nearby is a genuine oasis where fresh water gushes from the hot rocks and doum palms provide shade and comfort from the scorching sun. Of interest are local villages, boat-ride on the lake, desert museum and an evening scenic flight when the lighting is perfect to see the volcanoes and the suguta valley and flamingoes.

Full board Oasis Lodge.

Useful Links:

http://oasis-lodge.com

DAY 7, 8 & 9

MAASAI MARA “African Vista” Enjoy a charter flight over the most spectacular sections of the Great Rift Valley to Maasai Mara.

Maasai Mara is without a doubt Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and the most visited reserve in Kenya. The Maasai Mara is the "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World", and is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park, and just west of the Great Rift Valley in south-west Kenya. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

It offers the breathtaking views seen in the film, ‘Out of Africa’ much of which was filmed here. This unique eco-system protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth. It is the site of the most dramatic of all wildlife events: the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles. Beginning in late June, they come - more than one million strong- from the plains of the Serengeti and cross the Tanzanian border and rivers to reach the Mara’s lush grassland. They are hunted by predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Birdlife 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 plains birds include Jackson's bustard, black-bellied hartlaubs bustard. 53 species of birds of prey have been recorded. Secretary birds are common.

FULL BOARD: MARA SERENA LODGE, LITTLE GOVERNORS,

MARA INTERPIDS CAMP MARA SAROVA CAMP OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mara.pdf

Day 11 . Nairobi

Nairobi Drive or take a scheduled flight to Nairobi. Enjoy lunch, freshen up in a day-room, or take an optional tour to the National Museum. Have dinner and transfer to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

DAY 1.

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to The Green City in the Sun, a former capital of British East Africa, and Mecca for Adventurers, Hunters and Travelers from all over the world. Today, it’s the financial and commercial capital of East and Central Africa.

The city hosts an excellent Museum of Natural History ( a must see) holding many of the important hominid and hominoid fossils from myriad of sites along the Great Rift Valley.

Nairobi National Park is a113sq kms of plains, cliffs and forest within the boundary of the city and home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, and a large number of Lions are all found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town.

Nairobi Serena is one of Nairobi’s finest Hotels standing amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of Nairobi Central Park. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST: NAIROBI SERENA OR SIMILAR.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/nairobi.pdf

DAYS 02 & 03

TSAVO WEST “Theatre of the Wild” This is a superbly situated lodge with all the rooms and open air restaurant having magnificent views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The lodge is adjacent to a teeming water hole daily visited by herds of elephants, buffaloes and other plains animals making it one of the best game viewing lodges in Kenya

Tsavo National Park is the biggest of Kenya’s conservation areas. It’s composed of diverse habitats (Bush land, Open Savanna, Ash Cones and Lava flows some quite recent. A variety of wildlife is found here like zebras, wildebeests, Kudus and predators like leopard, cheetah and the famed (Man Eaters) Lions. Other attractions include the Red Elephants colored by the soils, recent Lava flow (Shetani) and a lava ridge where filtered water gushes out in a series of clear pools and there is a glass underwater observation pool for Hippo, crocodile and variety of fish species. While on a game drive, you can enjoy magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

FULL BOARD: KILAGUNI SERENA LODGE

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/kilaguni.pdf

DAYS 04 & 05

AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK “The essence of Africa” Nestled at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is a place of rugged beauty and best known for its unrivalled views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

The Park is set like an oasis surrounded by savannah scrub with life revolving around the 2 swamps fed by the melting snows of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Without question, its 1,500 strong Elephant population is the most remarkable and most studied group of elephants on the planet. Elephants and other plains animals are found submerged or along the swamp edges feeding and drinking. Packs of hyenas abound as well as lions, leopards and cheetah. Amboseli is well liked for the ease in spotting wildlife that it offers and for the colorfull Maasai people living around it.

Amboseli Serena was built with a sensitive eye to the surrounding environment borrowing heavily from the Maasai Villages.

FULL BOARD: AMBOSELI SERENA OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/amboseli.pdf

DAY 06

MT KENYA “God’s Abode” Located high up on the slopes of Mt. Kenya, Serena Mountain Lodge is surrounded by dense forest that comes alive at dusk with exhilarating african jungle sounds.

All the rooms face the watering hole which is a magnet for herds of buffaloes, elephants and bushbucks. There is a underground bunker that allows close up photography of all animals visiting the watering hole.

A unique experience is the forest walk offering on-foot sighting of animals and birds and provides an opportunity to learn about the history and religious importance of the mountain as well as medicinal uses of various plants growing in the forest.

FULL BOARD: MOUNTAIN SERENA LODGE

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mountain-lodge.pdf

DAYS 07 & 08

SAMBURU “ Rugged Beauty” The Reserve derives its name from the colorful Samburu people living around the park. The Park was the setting for such documentaries like “ Survivor Africa ” and film “to walk with lions” depicting the life of George Adamson husband to Joy Adamson. She is best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”

Found here is a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy Zebra, desert adapted species like the Gerenuk, Oryx etc. It’s a place of dry river beds known as luggas, rocky outcrops that rise sheer and the mysterious Lolokwe Mountain that appear misty and craggy in the distant. The Vegetation is dry thorny scrubland with a green belt only along the River Uaso Nyiro where animals like buffalloe, elephants and impalas congregate during the dry season. All big cats are easily sited in the park. Over 300 bird species have been recorded here.

Samburu Serena is located on the banks of Uaso- Nyiro river.

FULL BOARD SAMBURU SERENA OR SIMILAR.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mountain-lodge.pdf

DAYS 09, 10 & 11

MAASAI MARA “African Vista” A short flight over both escarpments of the Great Rift valley will take us to Maasai Mara.

Maasai Mara is without a doubt Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and now the "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World". It is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

It offers the breathtaking views seen in the film, ‘Out of Africa’ much of which was filmed here. This unique eco-system protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth. It is the site of the most dramatic of all wildlife events: the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles. Beginning in late June, they come - more than one million strong - from the plains of the Serengeti and cross the Tanzanian border and rivers to reach the Mara’s lush grassland. They are hunted by predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Nestled on a hill overlooking Mara River which hosts hundreds of crocodiles is the Mara Serena Safari lodge. It offers breathtaking views seen in the film, (‘Out of Africa’) much of which was filmed here, plus the annual spectacle of millions of migrating wildbeeste, 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.

Birdlife is as profuse as wildlife with over 53 species of birds of prey recorded here.

FULL BOARD: MARA SERENA LODGE. OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mara.pdf

DAY 12 NAIROBI /EUROPE Our drive to Nairobi will provide great views of the countryside as we climb over the eastern wall of the Rift Valley arriving in Nairobi by mid-day. Enjoy a day room and lunch, visit the Museum of Natural History. After dinner you will transfer to the airport for flight home.

Day 1

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to the “Safari Capital” and Mecca for Adventurers and Travelers from all over the world. Since the advent of African wildlife adventures, Nairobi has been the starting point. All areas of interest are a short flight away by light aircraft. It’s a major African hub for most International Airlines.

The city has not lost its sense of the past as is showcased in the Museum of Natural History. Kenya has long been considered as home of the ancient origin of human development and boasts some of the most significant fossil sites in the world. The museum is among the ten best in the world holding many of the most important hominid and hominoid fossils.

Nairobi National Park is a 44 square miles, of plains, cliffs and forest all within the city boundaries. It is home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, Leopard and a large number of Lions are all also found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town. At the main entrance, there is Animal Orphanage and the Nairobi Safari Walk for those with less time to explore.

Nairobi Serena is one of Nairobi’s finest Hotels standing amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of Nairobi Central Park. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST NAIROBI SERENA OR SIMILAR.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/nairobi.pdf

DAYS 02 & 03 FINCH HATTON TSAVO “A Legacy of Luxury” Drive on the main trunk road linking the Port city of Mombasa and Nairobi and branch to Tsavo West National Park. Nestled at the foot of Chyulu hills is a one man’s creation of the Ideal, FINCH HATTONS TENTED CAMP. Named after an English Aristocrat and Adventurer DENNY’S FINCH HATTON, He is reputed to have introduced luxury and elegance to the African Bush. He lived and died in Tsavo.

The camp surrounds a natural spring of fresh water, flowing through three crystal clear pools with Tents along the water’s edge. The springs are home to a resident group of hippos and crocodiles.

Tsavo National Park is the biggest of Kenya’s conservation areas. It’s composed of diverse habitats (Bush land, Open Savanna, Ash Cones and Lava flows some quite recent. A variety of wildlife is found here like zebras, wildebeests, Kudus and predators like leopard, cheetah and the famed (Man Eaters) Lions. Other attractions include the Red Elephants colored by the soils, recent Lava flow (Shetani) and a lava ridge where filtered water gushes out in a series of clear pools and there is a glass underwater observation pool for Hippo, crocodile and variety of fish species. While on a game drive, you can enjoy magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

FULL BOARD FINCH HATTON TENTED CAMP.

Useful Links:

http://www.finchhattons.com/

DAYS 04 & 05

SAMBURU “Rugged Beauty” The Reserve derives its name from the colorful Samburu people living around the park. The Park was the setting for such documentaries like “ Survivor Africa ” and film “to walk with lions” depicting the life of George Adamson husband to Joy Adamson. She is best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”

Found here is a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy Zebra, desert adapted species like the Gerenuk, Oryx etc. It’s a place of dry river beds known as luggas, rocky outcrops that rise sheer and the mysterious Lolokwe Mountain that appear misty and craggy in the distant. The Vegetation is dry thorny scrubland with a green belt only along the River Uaso Nyiro where animals like buffalloe, elephants and impalas congregate during the dry season. All big cats are easily sited in the park. Over 300 bird species have been recorded here.

Samburu Serena is located on the banks of Uaso- Nyiro river.

FULL BOARD: SAMBURU SERENA OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mountain-lodge.pdf

Day 06

Lake Turkana “Jade Sea” “On the traces of Richard Leakey and John LeCarre* you will have an unforgettable adventure into a desert. A journey to another world and an adventure one will not easily forget.

In the far north of Kenya lies Lake Turkana - the Jade Sea. It is set in the rugged moons-cape of the Great Rift Valley; an area tortured over the eons by immense volcanic activity. It is the place where mankind was born. It is a place for the traveler not the tourist. This morning, embark on a scenic flight to Lake Turkana with a 3 hrs stop-over at Koobi Fora. This is an ancient hominid Archeological site east of Lake Turkana discovered in 1968 by Richard Leakey, a re-knowned paleontologist. Visit the museum as well as listen to the curator as he takes you on a short tour of the site. Cultural deposits here go back perhaps as far as 2.3 million years.

Embark and proceed to the southern tip of the Lake where there is a small settlement called Loiyangalani - and nearby is a genuine oasis where fresh water gushes from the hot rocks and doum palms provide shade and comfort from the scorching sun. Nestled amongst the Doum Palms is Oasis Lodge, scene of the filming of The Constant Gardener..

There is a unique desert museum beautifully set on top of a hill overlooking the expansive Lake Turkana. It focuses on the lives of 8 communities living in the area and on natural environment in the harsh part of the country. Optional visits to Turkana and El molo villages can be arranged.

A highlight of the stay is an evening aerial scenic tour of the South Islands and the Suguta valley, areas that have undergone immense volcanic activity.

FULL BOARD: OASIS LODGE

Useful Links:

http://oasis-lodge.com

DAYS 07 AND 08

MARA SERENA - Maasai Mara The sun rises early, its windy but warm. Embark on a 2.5 hrs flight , over spectacular sections of the Great Rift valley to Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

Maasai Mara is part of the Serengeti- Mara eco-system, Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and now "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World". It is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

Nestled on a hill overlooking Mara River, host to hundreds of crocodiles is Mara Serena Safari lodge. It offers breathtaking views seen in the film, (‘Out of Africa’) much of which was filmed here. The highlight is the annual spectacle of millions of migrating wildbeeste, 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 predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Birdlife is as profuse as wildlife with over 53 species of birds of prey recorded here.

Three days are spent here on unlimited game drives in open jeeps or with roof hatches.

FULL BOARD: MARA SERENA LODGE OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mara.pdf

DAY 9 & 10

SERENGETI “Serengeti Shall Never Die” Proceed south retracing the old tracks of the wildebeest and cross the border into Tanzania and on to Serengeti National Park. Aptly named by the local people as the land that moves on forever, its an endless rolling plains 14,763 sq km teeming with wildlife conservatively estimated at 3 million.

Since 1913, when an American Stewart White brazed the trail, it has become a magnet for wildlife enthusiast, and has inspired famous authors like Ernst Hemingway, film makers like Alan Root not to mention myriad of photographers and scientist. Its the jewel in the crown of Tanzania’s protected areas.

Serengeti has been immortalized by “Serengeti shall never die” classic movie of the 1960’s. The Park is part of Serengeti –Mara ecosystem extending both in Kenya and Tanzania covering an area of 30,000 km2. This unique eco-system protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth not to mention the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles and is one of the last great migratory systems still intact.

For “a ringside seat for the greatest show on earth” stay at Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp in the Serena Stable. Ideally located on the main migration corridors and within easy reach of the prime wildlife theatres, the Camp affords both stunning views of surrounding plains as well as proximity to great wildlife viewing areas especially during the migration.

FULL BOARD: MBUZI MAWE TENTED CAMP

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/Tanzania/mbuzi/home.asp
http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/serengeti.pdf

DAY 11 AND 12

NGORONGORO CRATER “Garden of Eden” We depart in the morning to the eastern Serengeti plains with a stop at Olduvai gorge. This is where the Leakey’s discovered the hominoid remains of a 1.8 million year old skeleton of Australopithecus boisei, an important link of the human evolutionary chain. Excavated fossils show that the area is one of the oldest sites of hominoid habitation in the world. The gorge is a steep sided 30 mile long ravine which forms part of the Great Rift Valley. It is situated on a series of fault lines which, along with centuries of erosion, has revealed fossils and remnants of early human kind.

Ngorongoro Conservation area is a protected area. Only indigenous tribes such as the Masaai are allowed to live and herd their cattle and goats over the green pastures and through the highland slopes. They live in harmony with the wildlife as they have for centuries. The Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s Eden, is the “8th wonder of the Natural world”. The crater is 600 mtrs deep, 2 miles across and a microcosm of East African scenery and game. Scenic grandeur and stunning views are the hallmark of this wonder of the world.

Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is built high on the crater rim affording amazing views over and into the crater.

FULL BOARD: NGORONGORO SERENA ON THE 11DAY AND

OVERNIGHT SERENA MT. VILLAGE ARUSHA ON THE 12 DAY.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/ngo.pdf
http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/arusha.pdf

DAYS 13 & 14

RWANDA “ Heart of Africa” This morning, we embark on short flight to Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. On arrival, we embark our jeeps to Virunga volcanoes National Park. The park covers the Rwandan side of the Virunga volcanoes, a range of six extinct and 3 live volcanoes which border Uganda, Rwanda and DRC. These volcanoes are renowned for the work of the famous American primatologist, Diane Fossey. Of the 700 remaining mountain gorillas in the world, half of them make their home in Virunga Park in Rwanda.

The scenery is breathtaking and a host of activities are offered like different levels of mountain trekking, visiting Diane Fossey’s grave and the graves of the gorillas with which she worked, or tracking golden monkeys. Everyday only a limited number of people are allowed the unique experience of tracking and viewing gorillas up close - a very overwhelming experience.

The lodge with the most Dramatic location is Virunga Lodge on a hillside with breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Lakes Ruhondo and Bulera.

After trekking, drive to Kigali for overnight at Serena Kigali or Similar.

OVERNIGHT: VIRUNGA LODGE OR SIMILAR ON 13 DAY AND KIGALI SERENA ON 14 DAY

Useful Links:

http://www.volcanoessafaris.com/go/ecolodges/virunga-lodge/
http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/kigali.pdf

DAY 15

KIGALI/NAIROBI /EUROPE Today enjoy sights and sounds of Kigali. Visit memorial museums and other places of interest. After lunch, embark on a flight to Nairobi with a chance to enjoy a day room and do some last minute shopping.

After dinner you will transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to connect to flights back home full of pleasant memories.

Useful Links:

http://www.museum.gov.rw/2_museums/kigali/kigali_memorial/pages/page_intro.htm

DAY 1

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to The Green City in the Sun, a former capital of British East Africa, and Mecca for Adventurers, Hunters and Travelers from all over the world. Today, it’s the financial and commercial capital of East and Central Africa.

The city hosts an excellent Museum of Natural History ( a must see) holding many of the important hominid and hominoid fossils from myriad of sites along the Great Rift Valley.

Nairobi National Park is a113sq kms of plains, cliffs and forest within the boundary of the city and home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, and a large number of Lions are all found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town.

Nairobi Serena is one of Nairobi’s finest Hotels standing amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of Nairobi Central Park. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST: NAIROBI SERENA OR SIMILAR.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/nairobi.pdf

DAYS 02 AND 03

Meru National Park- "Complete Wilderness" This morning, we embark for a 1 hr. scheduled flight to Meru National Park. The untamed wilderness of Meru National Park is best explored from its hidden jewel – Elsa’s Kopje. The lodge is invisible to the eye as you approach the kopje (rocky outcrop). Each of the 9 individually built cottages are luxuriously appointed, and here you’ll find the ultimate ‘room with a view’

Meru is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya astride the equator. It has unique wilderness characteristics and pristine environmental qualities hard to find in other conservation areas. Meru National Park is former home to Joy and George Adamson, best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”, which depicts the story of Elsa, an orphaned lioness cub they raised and later released into the park.

Other attractions include a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy zebra, Somali ostrich, and recently discovered naked mole rat. It is home to Africa's big five: elephants, lions, leopard, rhino and buffalo. It also offers a very rich diversity of birdlife, rocky outcrops, 14 permanent rivers, and Adamson’s Falls.

FULL BOARD: MERU ELSA KOPJE

Useful Links:

http://www.elsaskopje.com/

DAY 04

Lake Turkana “Jade Sea” “On the traces of Richard Leakey and John Le Carre* you will have a unforgettable adventure into a desert combined with comfort”

In the far north of Kenya lies Lake Turkana - the Jade Sea. It is set in the rugged moons-cape of the Great Rift Valley; an area tortured over the eons by immense volcanic activity. It is the place where mankind was born. It is a place for the traveler not the tourist.

This morning, embark on a scenic flight to Lake Turkana with a 3 hrs stop-over at Illeret east of Lake Turkana. This is an ancient hominid archeological site where a human foot print dating 1.5 million yrs was recently discovered. A curator will be on hand to explain their work and research. Cultural deposits here go back perhaps as far as 2.3 million years.

Embark and proceed to the southern tip of the Lake where there is a small settlement called Loiyangalani - and nearby is a genuine oasis where fresh water gushes from the hot rocks and doum palms provide shade and comfort from the scorching sun. Nestled amongst the Doum Palms is Oasis Lodge, scene of the filming of The Constant Gardener..

There is a unique desert museum beautifully set on top of a hill overlooking the expansive Lake Turkana. It focuses on the lives of 8 communities living in the area and on natural environment in the harsh part of the country. Optional visits to Turkana and El molo villages can be arranged.

A highlight of the stay is an evening aerial scenic tour of the South Islands and the Suguta valley, areas that have undergone immense volcanic activity.

Full board Oasis Lodge.

Useful Links:

http://oasis-lodge.com

DAYS 05, 06 & 07

MARA SERENA - Maasai Mara WELCOME TO MAASAI MARA

Morning spent visiting the villages of Turkana and El molo. The El Molo are the smallest ethnic community in Kenya and only a few hundred remain. They spend their life hunting for crocodiles and fish. The Turkana are herdsmen and their lifestyle has been least affected by modern influences. Later embark and overfly some of the most spectacular sections the rift valley to Maasai Mara.

Maasai Mara is without a doubt Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and now "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World" is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

Nestled on a hill overlooking Mara River which host hundreds of crocodiles is Mara Serena Safari lodge It offers breathtaking views seen in the film, (‘Out of Africa’) much of which was filmed here, plus the annual spectacle of millions of migrating wildbeeste, 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.

Birdlife is as profuse as wildlife with over 53 species of birds of prey recorded here.

FULL BOARD: MARA SERENA LODGE OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mara.pdf

DAY 08

SERENA BEACH HOTEL & SPA Morning will be spent with game drives searching for the elusive cat and other rare animals. After lunch, we embark on a 2 hr. flight to the Kenyan Coast. We arrive at Moi International airport and transfer to Serena Beach Hotel and Spar. This is a stunning resort of Swahili-style houses amidst bougainvillea-filled gardens and shaded by palm trees.

This evening, you are invited to a night of East Africa’s ultimate dining experience aboard the “ TAMARID DHOW” . This is a traditional sailing ship converted into a sailing restaurant where you will savor exotic sea-foods during a candle-lit dinner under a star-filled sky and fine views of Mombasa’s old Town and Fort Jesus.

OVERNIGHT: SERENA BEACH HOTEL AND SPA

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mombasa.pdf

DAY 09

MOMBASA TOWN TOUR This morning, we embark on a tour of Historical Mombasa Old Town, a maze of narrow roads slicing between tall white buildings and stunning mosques dating back to 18th century. Many of these buildings have beautifully carved doors as well as elegantly styled balconies attached to their turn of the century facades. It’s now a Unesco Heritage site.

While in Old Town, a major attraction is the Fort Jesus Museum built in 1593 for the safety and protection of the Portuguese. It has witnessed many battles and changed hands many times. Other areas of interest are the Mwembe Tayari Open Air Market, cultural centre, crafts centre and Bamburi Nature Trail.

Lunch is in one of the many fine restaurants. We transfer to the Moi Airport for the flight to Nairobi where you will have a day-room and dinner. Transfer to the Airport for Departure Home.

Welcome to an adventure like no other. On this trip, you will be a witness to the most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth as you criss-cross the diverse landscape of East Africa. Visit an a Archeological site to learn about human evolution and spend sometime with the closest human relatives, great Apes of the Congo rainforest. Enjoy breathtaking scenery of the Great Rift Valley and encounter cultures that have withstood pressures of modernity. This is a trip of a lifetime.

DAY 01

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to The Green City in the Sun, a former capital of British East Africa, and Mecca for Adventurers, Hunters and Travelers from all over the world. Today, it’s the financial and commercial capital of East and Central Africa.

The city hosts an excellent Museum of Natural History ( a must see) holding many of the important hominid and hominoid fossils from myriad of sites along the Great Rift Valley.

Nairobi National Park is a113sq kms of plains, cliffs and forest within the boundary of the city and home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, and a large number of Lions are all found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town.

Nairobi Serena is one of Nairobi’s finest Hotels standing amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of Nairobi Central Park. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST: NAIROBI SERENA OR SIMILAR.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/nairobi.pdf

DAYS 02 AND 03

Meru National Park- "Complete Wilderness" This morning, we embark for a 1 hr. scheduled flight to Meru National Park. The untamed wilderness of Meru National Park is best explored from its hidden jewel – Elsa’s Kopje. The lodge is invisible to the eye as you approach the kopje (rocky outcrop). Each of the 9 individually built cottages are luxuriously appointed, and here you’ll find the ultimate ‘room with a view’

Meru is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya astride the equator. It has unique wilderness characteristics and pristine environmental qualities hard to find in other conservation areas. Meru National Park is former home to Joy and George Adamson, best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”, which depicts the story of Elsa, an orphaned lioness cub they raised and later released into the park.

Other attractions include a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy zebra, Somali ostrich, and recently discovered naked mole rat. It is home to Africa's big five: elephants, lions, leopard, rhino and buffalo. It also offers a very rich diversity of birdlife, rocky outcrops, 14 permanent rivers, and Adamson’s Falls.

FULL BOARD: MERU ELSA KOPJE

Useful Links:

http://www.elsaskopje.com/

DAY 04

Lake Turkana “Jade Sea” “On the traces of Richard Leakey and John LeCarre* you will have an unforgettable adventure into a desert. A journey to another world and an adventure one will not easily forget.

In the far north of Kenya lies Lake Turkana - the Jade Sea. It is set in the rugged moons-cape of the Great Rift Valley; an area tortured over the eons by immense volcanic activity. It is the place where mankind was born. It is a place for the traveler not the tourist. This morning, embark on a scenic flight to Lake Turkana with a 3 hrs stop-over at an ancient hominid Archeological site east of Lake Turkana discovered in 1968 by Richard Leakey, a re-knowned paleontologist. Listen to the curator as he takes you on a short tour of the site. Cultural deposits here go back perhaps as far as 2.3 million years.

Embark and proceed to the southern tip of the Lake where there is a small settlement called Loiyangalani - and nearby is a genuine oasis where fresh water gushes from the hot rocks and doum palms provide shade and comfort from the scorching sun. Nestled amongst the Doum Palms is Oasis Lodge, scene of the filming of The Constant Gardener..

There is a unique desert museum beautifully set on top of a hill overlooking the expansive Lake Turkana. It focuses on the lives of 8 communities living in the area and on natural environment in the harsh part of the country. Optional visits to Turkana and El molo villages can be arranged.

A highlight of the stay is an evening aerial scenic tour of the South Islands and the Suguta valley, areas that have undergone immense volcanic activity.

FULL BOARD: OASIS LODGE

Useful Links:

http://oasis-lodge.com

DAYS 05 & 06

MARA SERENA - Maasai Mara The sun rises early, its windy but warm. Embark on a 2.5 hrs flight , over spectacular sections of the Great Rift valley to Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

Maasai Mara is part of the Serengeti- Mara eco-system, Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and now "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World". It is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

Nestled on a hill overlooking Mara River, host to hundreds of crocodiles is Mara Serena Safari lodge. It offers breathtaking views seen in the film, (‘Out of Africa’) much of which was filmed here. The highlight is the annual spectacle of millions of migrating wildbeeste, 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 predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Birdlife is as profuse as wildlife with over 53 species of birds of prey recorded here.

Three days are spent here on unlimited game drives in open jeeps or with roof hatches.

FULL BOARD: MARA SERENA LODGE OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/mara.pdf

DAY 07 & 08

SERENGETI “Serengeti Shall Never Die” Proceed south retracing the old tracks of the wildebeest and cross the border into Tanzania and on to Serengeti National Park. Aptly named by the local people as the land that moves on forever, its an endless rolling plains 14,763 sq km teeming with wildlife conservatively estimated at 3 million.

Since 1913, when an American Stewart White brazed the trail, it has become a magnet for wildlife enthusiast, and has inspired famous authors like Ernst Hemingway, film makers like Alan Root not to mention myriad of photographers and scientist. Its the jewel in the crown of Tanzania’s protected areas.

Serengeti has been immortalized by “Serengeti shall never die” classic movie of the 1960’s. The Park is part of Serengeti –Mara ecosystem extending both in Kenya and Tanzania covering an area of 30,000 km2. This unique eco-system protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth not to mention the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles and is one of the last great migratory systems still intact.

For “a ringside seat for the greatest show on earth” stay at Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp in the Serena Stable. Ideally located on the main migration corridors and within easy reach of the prime wildlife theatres, the Camp affords both stunning views of surrounding plains as well as proximity to great wildlife viewing areas especially during the migration.

FULL BOARD: MBUZI MAWE TENTED CAMP

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/Tanzania/mbuzi/home.asp
http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/serengeti.pdf

DAY 09

LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK This morning we proceed to Mwanza Airport for a short flight across lake Victoria to Entebbe in Uganda. Upon arrival, we depart by road to Lake Mburo National Park.

The park is dominated by acacia woodland and visitors are fascinated by the variety of large mammals and colorful birds. The lake is part of cluster of 14 lakes extending outside the park and considered a wetland.

The park has no elephants or lions but is famous for it’s heard of impalas, eland and zebra. A major highlight for any visit to the park is a boat ride on the edge of the lake to discover different water birds both on the open water and on the sedges. Hippos, crocodiles and sometimes the sitatunga antelope are all sighted.

Other highlights include a nature trail walk as well as a walk to the nearby saltlick where a strategically located wooden hide (observation point) offers a chance to see at least 4 different species of animals at any one time while they lick the salty soil. Most interesting is that this is done without the animal's awareness.

Full Board Lake Mburo Mantana Camp

Useful Links:

http://www.kimbla-mantanauganda.com/brochure/LakeMburo.pdf

Day 10 & 11

BWINDI – BUHOMA LODGE Early morning provides a final game viewing opportunity as we search for nocturnal wildlife coming back from their night forays. Enjoy breakfast and proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable Gorilla National Park.

BUHOMA LODGE is a small boutique lodge deep in the forest. Each of the eight comfortable cottages has a private verandah allowing wonderful views of the forest canopy in the National Park. An elevated lounge complete with Bar and Dining facilities and a fireplace offer a surreal atmosphere to enjoy the sounds of Africa.

Bwindi is a magnificent, verdant swathe across the steep ridges of the Albertine Rift Valley, this ancient rainforest - one of the few in Africa to have flourished throughout the last Ice Age - is home to roughly half of the world's 600 mountain gorillas. Looking deep into the expressive brown eyes of these gentle giants is surely the most exciting and poignant wildlife encounter that Uganda has to offer. The Gorilla trekking takes anywhere between 3 hrs and 7 hrs so some level of fitness is required.

However we should not let this distract us from Bwindi's broader biodiversity, a result of its immense antiquity and an altitude that spans from 1,160 to 2,607m. The national park has 90 mammal species, including 11 primates, with the black-and-white colobus, monkey adorned with a lovely flowing white tail being prominent. The forest birding ranks with the best in Uganda, boasting 23 highly localized Albertine Rift endemics present

FULL BOARD: BUHOMA LODGE CAMP

Useful Links:

http://www.wildfrontiers.co.ug/buhoma.html

Day 12 & 13

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK In Western Uganda lies the magnificent Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The Park boasts the highest biodiversity rating in the world ranging from open savannahs to rainforests, from dense papyrus swamps and brooding crater lakes to the vastness of Lake Edward

Almost 100 mammal species and a remarkable 606 bird species make this superb safari territory. Elephants, a profusion of hippos, the elusive giant forest hog and handsome Uganda kob antelope all are regularly sighted around the tourist village on the Mweya Peninsula, a marvelous waterfront setting in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains

Elsewhere, the remote Ishasha Sector is famed for its tree-climbing lions. The Kyambura Gorge harbors habituated chimps, the Maramagambo Forest is home to an alluring selection of forest monkeys and birds, and flocks of flamingo are resident on the crater lakes.

FULL BOARD: MWEYA SAFARI LODGE

Useful Links:

http://www.mweyalodge.com/

Day 14

After completing your journal of discovery, depart for Entebbe where you embark for Nairobi. Enjoy a day room and dinner, then transfer for your flight Home.

DAY 1.

NAIROBI “The Safari Capital” Welcome to the “Safari Capital” and Mecca for Adventurers and Travelers from all over the world. Nairobi has since the advent of African wildlife adventures, been the starting point. All areas of interest are a short flight away by light aircraft. It’s a major African hub for most International Airlines.

The city has not lost its sense of the past as is showcased in the Museum of Natural History. Kenya has long been considered as home of the ancient origin of human development and boasts some of the most significant fossil sites in the world. The museum is among the ten best in the world holding many of the most important hominid and hominoid fossils.

Nairobi National Park is a 44 square miles, of plains, cliffs and forest all within the city boundaries. It is home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe and more. Rhino, Cheetah, Leopard and a large number of Lions are all also found here, living free and wild within 20 minutes of the centre of town. At the main entrance, there is Animal Orphanage and the Nairobi Safari Walk for those with less time to explore.

The Stanley Hotel is one of Nairobi’s old landmarks and finest hotel. Standing in the central business district, its gives the flavor of the city better than any other hotel. Despite its central location, it’s an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of Africa’s most vibrant city.

BED AND BREAKFAST: THE STANLEY OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.sarovahotels.com/stanley/index.php

Days 02, 03 & 04

MARA SAROVA - MAASAI MARA The sun rises early, its misty but warm. Depart by road through some spectacular sections of the Great Rift valley to Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

Maasai Mara is without a doubt Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve and the most visited reserve in Kenya. The Maasai Mara is the "New Seventh Wonder of the Natural World", and is situated on the northern tip of the Serengeti National Park, and just west of the Great Rift Valley in south-west Kenya. This is where the word “Safari” comes in to its true light, meaning journey in Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language.

It offers the breathtaking views seen in the film, ‘Out of Africa’ much of which was filmed here. This unique eco-system protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth. It is the site of the most dramatic of all wildlife events: the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles. Beginning in late June, they come - more than one million strong - from the plains of the Serengeti and cross the Tanzanian border and rivers to reach the Mara’s lush grassland. They are hunted by predators: lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and circled by vultures as the journey unfolds.

Three days are spent here on unlimited game drives in open jeeps or with roof hatches.

FULL BOARD: MARA SAROVA TENTED CAMP. OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.sarovahotels.com/mara/index.php

Days 05

LAKE NAKURU. “Ornithologists Paradise” Drive over the Mau escarpment to Lake Nakuru National Park. This is a shallow, strongly alkaline lake surrounded by areas of marsh and grassland alternating with rocky cliffs and outcrops, stretches of acacia woodland and rocky hillsides covered with euphorbia forest.

The foundation of the park's food chain is the blue-green algae which supports huge populations of the lesser flamingo. The tiny fish, tilapia grahamii, introduced in the 1950’s to control mosquito now supports a huge variety of fish eating birds. Over 450 species of birds are found here. The game park area around the lake is now a rhino sanctuary supporting large populations of both black and white rhinos. Buffaloes, waterbucks, baboons and other plains game abound. Lion, leopards and hyena are some of the predators found here.

FULL BOARD: SAROVA LION HILL LODGE

Useful Links:

http://www.sarovahotels.com/lionhill/index.php

Days 06 & 07

SHABA “ Mystic Beauty” This area is the dry, semi-desert scrubland of isolated hills rising rising sheer and dry river beds known as Luggas. The Park was the setting for such documentaries like “ Survivor Africa ” and film “to walk with lions” depicting the life of George Adamson husband to Joy Adamson. She is best known through the book and the Academy Award winning film “BORN FREE”

Found here is a varied kaleidoscope of endemic and threatened northern wildlife species like the Grevy Zebra, desert adapted species like the Gerenuk, Oryx etc. It’s a place of dry river beds known as luggas, rocky outcrops that rise sheer and the mysterious Lolokwe Mountain that appear misty and craggy in the distant. The Vegetation is dry thorny scrubland with a green belt only along the River Uaso Nyiro where animals like buffalloe, elephants and impalas congregate during the dry season. All big cats are easily sited in the park. Over 300 bird species have been recorded here.

Sarova Shaba is located on the Banks of Uaso _ Nyiro river and a permanent spring.

FULL BOARD: SAROVA SHABA LODGE OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.sarovahotels.com/shaba/index.php

DAY 8

Whitesands Beach Hotel Morning game drives for the elusive cat and other rare animals. Lunch and then embark for a 2 hr flight to the Kenyan Coast. Arrive at Moi International airport and transfer to Serena Beach Hotel and Spar. This is a stunning resort of Swahili-style houses amidst bougainvillea-filled gardens and shaded by palm trees.

This evening, you are invited to an evening of East Africa’s ultimate dining experience aboard the “ TAMARID DHOW”. This is a traditional sailing ship converted into a sailing restaurant where you savor exotic sea-foods in a candle lit dinner under star filled sky and fine views of Mombasa’s old Town and Fort Jesus.

OVERNIGHT: WHITESANDS BEACH HOTEL

Useful Links:

http://www.sarovahotels.com/whitesands/

DAY 09

MOMBASA TOWN TOUR This morning, we embark on a tour of Historical Mombasa Old Town, a maze of narrow roads slicing between tall white buildings and stunning mosques dating back to 18th century. Many of these buildings have beautifully carved doors as well as elegantly styled balconies attached to their turn of the century facades. It’s now a Unesco Heritage site.

While in Old Town, a major attraction is the Fort Jesus Museum built in 1593 for the safety and protection of the Portuguese. It has witnessed many battles and changed hands many times. Other areas of interest are the Mwembe Tayari Open Air Market, cultural centre, crafts centre and Bamburi Nature Trail.

Lunch is in one of the many fine restaurants. We transfer to the Moi Airport for the flight to Nairobi where you will have a day-room and dinner. Transfer to the Airport for Departure Home.

DAY 01

ARUSHA Arrive at Kilimanjaro airport on the outskirts of this Tanzania Safari Capital. Most of the scenic wildlife areas can be reached either by road or light aircraft. Overnight Serena Mountain Village.

DAYs 02 & 03

NGORONGORO CRATER “Garden of Eden” Depart this morning via Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Conservation area. The world’s largest unbroken caldera is 600 mtrs deep and 9 miles across and is a microcosm of East African scenery and game. Scenic grandeur and stunning views are the hallmark of this Eight Wonder of the World and one of the most incredibly spectacular game haunts in Africa.

The floor of the crater is 2,000 feet below and it encompasses more than 100 square miles of desert, grasslands, forests, lakes and streams. It’s a contained ecosystem like no other and home to over 25,000 large mammals and the greatest concentration of mammalian predators in the world. It’s the only natural setting where one can spot the “big five” Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhino within a short period of time.

Lodges are built high up on the rim giving unobstructed views of the crater below.

Game viewing is done on the second day when you descend winding down steep decline into the crater floor for a full day tour. Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is built high on the crater rim affording amazing views over and into the crater.

FULL BOARD: NGORONGORO SERENA OR SIMILAR

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/ngo.pdf

Days 04, 05 & 06

SERENGETI “Serengeti Shall Never Die” This morning, we drive to Serengeti via Oldvai Gorge. This is where the Leakey’s discovered the hominoid remains of a 1.8 million year old skeleton of Australopithecus boisei, an important link of the human evolutionary chain. Excavated fossils show that the area is one of the oldest sites of hominoid habitation in the world. The gorge is a steep sided 30 mile long ravine which forms part of the Great Rift Valley. It is situated on a series of fault lines which, along with centuries of erosion, has revealed fossils and remnants of early human kind.

Proceed to Serengeti National Park to the "the land that moves on forever", Serengeti which is an endless rolling plain 14,763 sq km teeming with wildlife conservatively estimated to number 3 million.

Since 1913, when an American Stewart White brazed the trail, it has become a magnet for wildlife enthusiast, and has inspired famous authors like Ernst Hemingway, film makers like Alan Root not to mention myriad of photographers and scientist. It’s the jewel in the crown of Tanzania’s protected areas. Its been immortalized by 1960’s classic film “ Serengeti shall never die”

For “a ringside seat for the greatest show on earth,” you will stay at Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp or Serengeti Serena Lodge. Ideally located on the main migration corridors and within easy reach of the prime wildlife theatres, both affords both stunning views of surrounding plains as well as proximity to great wildlife viewing areas especially during the migration.

FULL BOARD: MBUZI MAWE TENTED CAMP OR SERENGETI SERENA LODGE.

Useful Links:

http://www.serenahotels.com/Tanzania/mbuzi/home.asp
http://www.serenahotels.com/brochure/serengeti.pdf

DAY 07

LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK This morning proceed to Mwanza Airport for a short flight across lake Victoria to Entebbe in Uganda. Upon arrival, we depart by road to Lake Mburo National Park

The park is dominated by acacia woodland and visitors are fascinated by the variety of large mammals and colorful birds. The lake is part of cluster of 14 lakes extending outside the park and considered a wetland.

There are no Elephants or Lions in the park but is famous for its herd of impalas, eland and zebra. A major highlight for any visit to the park is a boat ride on the edge of the lake to discover different water birds both on the open water and on the sedges. Hippos, crocodiles and sometimes the sitatunga antelope are all sighted.

Other highlights include a nature trail walk as well as a walk to the nearby saltlick where a strategically located wooden hide (observation point) offers a chance to see at least 4 different species of animals at any one time while they lick the salty soil. Most interesting is that this is done without the animal's awareness.

Full Board Lake Mburo Mantana Camp.

Useful Links:

http://www.kimbla-mantanauganda.com/brochure/LakeMburo.pdf

Days 08 & 09

BWINDI – BUHOMA LODGE Early morning provides a final game viewing opportunity as we search for nocturnal wildlife coming back from their night forays. Enjoy breakfast and proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable Gorilla National Park.

BUHOMA LODGE is a small boutique lodge deep in the forest. Each of the eight comfortable cottages has a private verandah allowing wonderful views of the forest canopy in the National Park. An elevated lounge complete with Bar and Dining facilities and a fireplace offer a surreal atmosphere to enjoy the sounds of Africa.

Bwindi is a magnificent, verdant swathe across the steep ridges of the Albertine Rift Valley, this ancient rainforest - one of the few in Africa to have flourished throughout the last Ice Age - is home to roughly half of the world's 600 mountain gorillas. Looking deep into the expressive brown eyes of these gentle giants is surely the most exciting and poignant wildlife encounter that Uganda has to offer. The Gorilla trekking takes anywhere between 3 hrs and 7 hrs so some level of fitness is required.

However we should not let this distract us from Bwindi's broader biodiversity, a result of its immense antiquity and an altitude that spans from 1,160 to 2,607m. The national park has 90 mammal species, including 11 primates, with the black-and-white colobus, monkey adorned with a lovely flowing white tail being prominent. The forest birding ranks with the best in Uganda, boasting 23 highly localized Albertine Rift endemics present

FULL BOARD: BUHOMA LODGE CAMP

Useful Links:

http://www.wildfrontiers.co.ug/buhoma.html

Day 10 & 11

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK In Western Uganda lies the magnificent Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The Park boasts the highest biodiversity rating in the world ranging from open savannahs to rainforests, from dense papyrus swamps and brooding crater lakes to the vastness of Lake Edward.

Almost 100 mammal species and a remarkable 606 bird species make this superb safari territory. Elephants, a profusion of hippos, the elusive giant forest hog and handsome Uganda kob antelope all are regularly sighted around the tourist village on the Mweya Peninsula, a marvelous waterfront setting in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Elsewhere, the remote Ishasha Sector is famed for its tree-climbing lions. The Kyambura Gorge harbors habituated chimps, the Maramagambo Forest is home to an alluring selection of forest monkeys and birds, and flocks of flamingo are resident on the crater lakes.

FULL BOARD: MWEYA SAFARI LODGE

Useful Links:

http://www.mweyalodge.com/

Day 12

After completing your journal of discovery, depart for Kampala Serena. Dayroom and dinner followed by transfer for your flight Home.