CAMPING AND LODGE SAFARI OF ALIFE TIME

The first couple of weeks of August were fairly hot, dry and dusty. We were lucky enough to receive 78mm of rain mid month quenching the brown, dry grasslands. The plains were transformed in a matter of days, the shorter grass that had already been grazed turning to an emerald green. This brought about a change in the zebra and wildebeest behaviour, with the herds of the wildebeest migration coming together and moving north towards Rhino Ridge, Musiara Marsh and on to our walking area in Koiyaki. We have been treated to the most amazing sight having these dense herds of animals covering the plains from Governors’ Camp for as far as the eye can see! We even had to clear the airstrip for aeroplanes to land. The grass is still plentiful even with the enormous numbers of animals on it, this bodes well for September. We have the good rains we received at the first half of the year to thank for that.

The Wildebeest Migration:

At the beginning of the month the herds of wildebeest and zebra were in fairly large groups with trails moving to and fro from area to area without obvious direction. Some wildebeest were still to be seen in the Northern part of the Serengeti and in the southern part of the Masai Mara around the Sand River and in the Trans-Mara areas.

With the Masai Mara having some decent rain and reportedly the Serengeti remaining mostly dry, the Wildebeest Migration ventured north to our area of the Masai Mara where greener pastures and brought them together in huge numbers. We have seen many Mara River crossings this month some with a few animals crossing and some with thousands of wildebeest crossing. And we have not even had to leave camp to catch the action with wildebeest crossing the Mara River in front of Governors’ Camp on two different occasions last week! The wildebeest have mostly done well, crossing the river with minor casualties even though the river has come up a meter or so. There have been a few devastating crossings where hundreds have drowned as they had chosen a steep exit, littering the river with carcasses and providing a feast for the already gorged crocodiles, catfish and vultures.

The Quinine trees (Rauvofia caffra) after losing their leaves, regenerated new ones together with their flowers and fruit. The Black and White Hornbills after a short absence are back and spending much of their time up in the Quinine trees, as are the Turacos, Double-toothed barbets and Olive pigeons feeding on the fruit. The African Green heart tree, the most prominent large tree in the area known for its medicinal cures for stomach aches and malaria as well as the Masai toothbrush has continued to fruit. The elephant have stood under these trees eating its peppery fruit for some time now, they more than likely receive some kind of medicinal properties from this too. They do get a little feisty from the spiciness and could account for the amount of damage done to the trees and poles in the camps.

We have enjoyed some lovely sightings of the water birds in the marsh now that it has receded and the elephant and waterbuck have eaten the sedge down including Saddle-billed Storks, Yellow-billed Storks, a variety of Plovers and Lapwings, Sacred Ibis and the first of the Spoon-billed storks.

A Martial eagle was sighted with a banded mongoose kill up in a tree. Four Fish eagles and a Bateleur eagle were seen feeding on a young gazelle, we are unsure if one of the fish eagles actually killed it or it had died of natural causes.

There are three ostrich nesting sites out on the plains, one unfortunately was ransacked by hyena and all the eggs eaten and destroyed.

The large herd of buffalo numbering around 400 individuals continue to frequent the marsh to drink and eat the thicker course grass that grows beside it. They have calved recently and have many young varying slightly in age and colour. They are born jet black, changing to a rusty brown as their coat grows out and returning to black again, all in a couple of months. The breeding males stay with the herd and the young to help protect them from predators which they are fierce at. The older pride male of the marsh pride was chased up into the top of a small bush at the end of August by some very unhappy buffalo! The bachelor males, the young and old mostly, still remain in their small groups along the rivers edge, not moving far at all during the day.

The impala, waterbuck, hartebest and topi maintain their territories along the marsh and riverine forest undisturbed as the wildebeest migration moves through and encompasses them. The warthogs are mostly breathing a sigh of relief as they have been given a reprieve by the lions as the wildebeest take their place as the staple food group.

Giraffe come and go in smaller herds, sometimes not seeing any for days. They seem to go across into the Acacia woodlands for a slightly different diet and then back to us for the Teclia and wild cocoa bushes.

The Marsh Pride of lions, have been very prominent around the marsh this month, at a stretch moving up to the Mbila Shaka river line a kilometre away. They have had no need to move as the wildebeest migration has come to them. On a couple of occasions wildebeest have sunk in the mud and trapped themselves, leaving the lions very little to. The pride has been hunting wildebeest on a daily basis, there are so many wildebeest in their territory that one day they killed five wildebeest and only ate two leaving the rest to the hyenas. The older pride male is still in bad shape, he has come in closer to the rest of the pride but remains apart. He has a serious limp and cannot run as he used to, hence his predicament with the buffalo mentioned earlier. One of the younger lionesses has become more marginalized too, we are unsure why but there is always the possibility she may be expectant. The rest of the pride is fat and happy! The three youngest cubs have come into the fold of the pride and are far more adventurous and playful, the older cubs making sure they grow up tough. The first litter of cubs are mostly with one of the lionesses, away from the core pride and new litter.

With the wildebeest migration on their doorstep The Ridge Pride have maintained their abundant hunting grounds up on Rhino Ridge, not moving very far at all but less accessible in their rocky terrain.

The Paradise Pride having positioned themselves around and near the main crossing sites on the Mara River are not short of food either. This area naturally channels the wildebeest and zebra into a couple of small valleys into the open areas of the river where they mostly cross over. The pride males continue to move back and forth across the river, moonlighting between their two prides of lionesses.

We have seen many different cheetah this month, most of all the three boys. They have been moving between Governors and the Talek river. They have developed a very clever hunting tactic of divide and conquer – the lead male will concentrate his attention on a young wildebeest calf whilst the other two distract and push the mother and the rest of the herd away.

The mother cheetah and the cub with the bad eye have not been seen much at all this month, spending her time out of the reserve in the Koiyaki area. The other female with her grown cub was up near double crossing and also moving into the Koiyaki area. The female with her three almost grown cubs has been seen intermittently up on Topi plains. She had killed a young wildebeest, which is a tall task for a single mother as she risks confrontation from the mother wildebeest. She does have three other mouths to feed, so needs must. The single female has been seen up on Rhino ridge, no confirmed reports on whether she is pregnant yet. She is the same one that was mating with the three boys months ago.

Shadow / Zawadi the leopard, whom we have not seen for an age made an appearance near the windmill at the marsh mid month. The female Il Moran leopard has been seen but less so this month. We think she has retreated more into the forest as the lions presence in the marsh has been so constant. She was however spotted catching cat fish out of a small pool at the marsh. The very large male leopard has been at the rocky, croton area near the River.

Olive and her two cubs maintain their celebrity status on the Olare Orok river, she is seen most days seemingly not minding the being photographed. Olive’s previous male cub who is now an adult seems to share part of her territory along the river. He has been seen less regularly, this is normal as males tend to be more secretive. The other female leopard and her two younger cubs on the Ntiakitiak river are also flourishing. Although she managed to kill a young wildebeest, she unfortunately lost it to lions whilst feeding on it on the ground.

With so much game around the hyenas have had their fill, leaving half eaten carcasses and hunting more for sport. There is still a den sight close to our airstrip where the cubs are growing up fast and will soon move on.

There are also two jackal den sites further up on the plains, the pups are still very small and remain mostly in hiding.

Now that the grass has been mowed down in many areas we have had some great sightings of Serval cats and Bat-eared foxes. They are less camouflaged in the shorter, now greener grass.

It has been a spectacular month for hot air ballooning in the Masai Mara, we have enjoyed incredible views over the wildebeest migration, the big five in one flight, regular rhino and lion sightings and this morning a hyena took down a wildebeest right in front of the balloon.

We know Africa greatest destinations, contact us to book your next vacation here!! more than just a wildlife holiday.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require.

Individual and discounted group rates also available on request. We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

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Yours Sincerely,

Eyes on nature expeditions management
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~ A major highway, an international airport, power struggles, development, and human welfare issues – critical challenges now threaten the very fabric and survival of the Serengeti National Park as we know it. Never before in its history has the world’s greatest wildlife heritage faced such an uncertain future. ~

On June 21, 2010, the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) signed an urgent petition initiated by Save the Serengeti, a coalition of organizations that share a concern over the future of the Serengeti National Park.

“Our sacred responsibility to the young and unborn generations of mankind is to jealously protect Mother Earth and all life on it.” Maasai elder

“This threat to the Serengeti, a major commercial highway across the Serengeti National Park, is of great concern to us and many of our members,” said Shannon Stowell, ATTA President. “We’re hoping for an alternative plan that can still serve commercial needs but recognizes that this is an irreversible and destructive change to one of the world’s most valuable wildlife destinations.”

The ATTA urges all its members and subscribers of AdventureTravelNews™ to back the petition – on behalf of the tourism industry – which offers counsel to the Tanzanian government to reconsider the routing of a currently proposed highway, which poses a threat to what New York Times blogger Olivia Judson refers to as, ”..the last great migration on Earth…”.

• Save the Serengeti’s petition is available here. (SaveTheSerengeti.org also contains many must-read articles which provider further context to the story, plus sources of additional information by organizations long-involved in protecting the Serengeti)

Bare in mind, that when researching and considering your individual or organizational stance on the conflict, “One thing I think we need to emphasize — this is not animals vs. people,” explains Dave Blanton, founder of the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association who has traveled in East Africa for 40 years and lived there for seven and first alerted to the ATTA to the conflict. “The organization favors an alternate route that better promotes economic development while preserving Tanzania’s greatest natural treasure.”

• Timing Critical: several sites indicate that reports from the field convey that pink ribbons have already been placed, demarcating where the road is expected to be constructed.

And, in very practical terms, Save the Serengeti, along with the ATTA, support Tanzania’s own proclamations and positioning on nature and conservation, beginning with its very first president, Julius Nyerer, who in 1961 introduced what became known as the “Arusha Manifesto” which is proudly displayed on the country’s National Parks site at www.TanzaniaParks.com:

“The survival of our wildlife is a matter of grave concern to all of us in Africa. These wild creatures amid the wild places they inhabit are not only important as a source of wonder and inspiration but are an integral part of our natural resources and our future livelihood and well being.

In accepting the trusteeship of our wildlife we solemnly declare that we will do everything in our power to make sure that our children’s grand-children will be able to enjoy this rich and precious inheritance.

The conservation of wildlife and wild places calls for specialist knowledge, trained manpower, and money, and we look to other nations to co-operate with us in this important task – the success or failure of which not only affects the continent of Africa but the rest of the world as well.”

In fact, the Tanzanian government itself continues at the same nation-sponsored site:

“The Legal Mandate of Tanzania National Parks is:

To manage and regulate the use of areas designated as National Parks by such means and measures to preserve the country’s heritage, encompassing natural and cultural resources, both tangible and intangible resource values, including the fauna and flora, wildlife habitat, natural processes, wilderness quality and scenery therein and to provide for human benefit and enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for future generations.

To Preserve:

• Areas possessing exceptional value or quality illustrating the natural or cultural resources of Tanzania’s heritage
• Areas with outstanding examples of a particular type of resource
• Water and soil resources critical to maintain ecological integrity and which support the subsistence needs of people outside park boundaries
• Areas that offer superlative opportunities for public benefit, enjoyment or scientific study.

To Ensure:

• National Parks retain a high degree of integrity as a true, accurate and unspoiled example of a resource
• Management Plans for parks are developed by interdisciplinary teams comprised of appropriate professionals with the best available information to achieve a balance between preservation and use that does not adversely impact park resources and values
• A quality visitor experience, rather than emphasizing “mass-tourism” at the expense of park resources and values
• Optimum levels of revenue and benefits accrue to the national economy, the parks and communities without impairing park resources.”

Its own mandate appears to be one of the most sound and cogent arguments against the proposed highway.

Hard economic issues also are clearly understood by the opposition – and, bordering Kenya which also has a vested interest in protecting migration patterns to also preserve its tourism industry, which is why the petition refers to the very real economics of the conflict. Arguments opposing the current route appear sound and offer viable alternatives that preserve the wilderness area in question, offer reasonable routes to help preserve local economies, and still preserves the tourism industry there for the long haul should Tanzania see fit to hold true to its first president’s vision. Again, from the Tanzania National Park site:

“The Tanganyika National Parks Ordinance CAP [412] of 1959 established the organization now known as Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), and Serengeti became the first National Park. Conservation in Tanzania is governed by the Wildlife Conservation Act of 1974, which allows the Government to establish protected areas and outlines how these are to be organized and managed. National Parks represent the highest level of resource protection that can be provided. By February 2008, Tanapa had grown to 15 national parks, with plans to add 1 more in the near future, as well as to expand existing parks. Conservation of eco-systems in all areas designated as national parks is the core business of the organisation.

Nature-based or wildlife tourism is the main source of income that is ploughed back for management, regulation, and fulfilment of all organisational mandates in the national parks.”

According to Save the Serengeti: Both the African Wildlife Foundation and the Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS) favor a southern route. As the FZS has pointed out — a proposed alternate southern route serves more than five times as many people (2,278,000 people vs. 431,000 in the north). The southern highway passes through important agricultural areas in Tanzania, the northern road does not. The southern highway would provide a major opportunity to increase agricultural output and distribution across the whole region. As for cost, the amount of new tarmac of the northern route through the Serengeti is 261 miles. The alternate southern route would be 237 miles.

When queried by the ATTA about the petition and its approach, Blanton commented, “For one thing, the economic argument to the government is powerful. For another, it’s something the travel industry needs to be aware of and support. Although this is the most egregious we’ve seen, other such issues will only get more frequent.”

As dire as it may seem, Blanton’s lamentation is likely to become reality. Increasingly, in fact, the ATTA is made aware of pressing tourism industry issues and conflicts by its partners and members and/or through its own means. Some require immediate action and/or awareness building throughout the adventure travel community. Mostly recently, the Yale University vs. Peru challenge comes to mind, as reported June 15, 2010 in AdventureTravelNews™, which exposes an ethical challenge more an more nations are calling out. Share similarly compelling conflicts of global interest and impact by leaving a comment in the Comments box below this article.

Must Reads:

Some of the latest perspectives (as of June 25, 2010) from ATTA Members, Keyna Tourist Board, KATO (Kenyan Association of Tour Operators) and entrepreneurs in the region are provided below.

Please note that on June 22, 2010, the ATTA queried nearly 50 entrepreneurs in Tanzania for responses and/or positions on the matter, with a special note that both sides of the issue would be presented fairly. Only one response was received by this reporter by the stated deadline – Gibbs Farm, Tanzania. Reports from on the ground in Tanzania indicate a high degree of concern by businesses in Tanzania who fear publicly opposing the proposed highway might result in severe reprisals from the Tanzanian government. This situation may have contributed to the lack of response to queries for statements from the field.

Additionally, this reporter queried two Tanzania National Park representatives for comment on the situation, also on June 22, 2010, with a deadline of June 24, 2010. As of June 25, 2010, no reply was received.

Statement from the Chairman, Kenya Tourist Board on the Proposed Serengeti Highway

Members of the tourism fraternity in Kenya have expressed their concern regarding the news that a new highway may be constructed straight through the Serengeti National Reserve in Tanzania.  It is feared that if a major public highway cuts through the Serengeti then this could disrupt the spectacular annual wildebeest migration which moves between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. It is recognised that the Tanzanian government is committed to the provision of an improved road network for its citizens and that the proposed highway will link the towns of Arusha and Musoma. However in view of the importance of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem as one of the world’s premier wildlife reserves and as a major contributor to the economies of both Tanzania and Kenya, it is hoped that the authorities in Tanzania will consider an alternative route passing around the outside of the Serengeti  which will also link more towns and villages than a highway through a national reserve in which there is no human settlement.

Jake Grieves-Cook, Chairman, Kenya Tourist Board

“The African tourism industry has done an outstanding job of working very hard to develop safari products that are ‘low impact’, responsibly bringing travelers into fragile ecosystems, such as Tanzania’s Serengeti,” explains Sarah Fazendin, President, The Fazendin Portfolio, LLC. “We are hopeful that the Tanzanian government will acknowledge this precedent set by the tourism industry in preserving this wilderness treasure while remaining true to the very words of the country’s first president which are worth repeating, ‘These wild creatures amid the wild places they inhabit are not only important as a source of wonder and inspiration but are an integral part of our natural resources and our future livelihood and well being.”’ The Tanzania National Parks Authority, TANAPA, has made great strides in protecting the National Parks over the years and a major development such as a road would appear to directly contradict this Government protection. The Tanzanian government needs to carefully consider the implications of the proposed Serengeti Highway, as the northern option will not only seriously harm the wildlife and the wilderness of this area but will have major financial implications in terms of harm to the safari industry and the plethora of related businesses which generate a huge portion of Tanzania’s foreign exchange.”

“In times like these, when powerful interests threaten to destroy the natural balance and cultural patrimony of the vast Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, our industry must organize, take time out of our busy day to express our views and take a stand, especially when our counterparts within Tanzania cannot,” said Wildland Adventures President Kurt Kutay. “This includes giving back some of what we have earned over the years on African safaris to help save this resource. If not for our own future, but out of a moral obligation on behalf of our Mother Earth including all the wild animals and native peoples who have co-existed and thrived in this Eden for millennia.”

The African Wildlife Foundation recently came out with an official statement on the matter, which includes some sensible constructive alternatives:

“I am aware of this proposal and find it alarming,” said Dale Jensen, Director, Marketing and Sales of Gibb’s Farm, Tanzania. “I lived in the Ngorongoro highlands for eight years. This will be the final nail in the coffin for keeping our wild places wild.  Undoubtedly there are some who will profit from it. We have to go to the financiers and stop it there.  If the financiers (donor countries) simply will not finance a road through the northern Serengeti, then it will be effectively be stopped. So, get the rich donor countries to basically say they will finance the alternate route, but not this one.”

Editor’s Note:

Please  do  join us in our excellent Camping safaris: lodge safaris; Birds watching Safaris, Gorilla trekking; mountain climbing; luxury-tented safaris; water rafting; beach safaris; balloon safaris & more.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require. Individual and discounted group rates also available on request

We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

Yours Sincerely,

STEVE

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Visit our website for more safaris

The heavy rains of April and May brought on a flush of new green growth with wild flowers blossoming and the level of Lake Naivasha rising considerably making it possible for the boat to go out again after being grounded for over a year and a half.

Towards the end of June and early July we experienced cool and overcast mornings with temperatures as low as 14 degrees centigrade and midday temperatures reaching between 25-28 degrees centigrade.

Bird life on the lake has been good yet again with the rise in lake levels. Good numbers of birds were recorded during the annual bird count that took place in mid July with several of them breeding; the Black-Crowned Night Heron has been spotted during almost all boat trips which is quite unusual since they are normally nocturnal birds. The splash of vegetation that was growing where the lake had dried now acts as a very good breeding site for the African Jacana, Yellow Billed Ducks and the Sacred Ibis who in the past have been noted to breed on the southern side of the lake.

There has been good numbers of game along the shoreline in front of Loldia House; eland, zebra, Dik Dik, warthogs and a big herd of impala with several of their fawns have been ever present especially in the evenings providing guests with lovely photographic opportunities, from the comfort of the verandah.

The grass round the airstrip is green and tall attracting herds of buffalo that have been grazing here regularly.

The resident leopards have been seen on several occasions during night game drives, one of them with two cubs just below the top cottage, much to the delight of our guests. We have also had wonderful regular sightings of Silver Backed Jackals, Aardvark and the Bat Eared Fox during the night game drives.

There has been good rainfall in Lake Nakuru National Park causing the water levels to rise and the number of flamingoes to increase. The lake shore is tinged pink with flamingoes! The park looks well recovered with long green grass and plenty of game in good health these include; buffalo, eland, waterbuck, impala, warthog, zebra, Spotted Hyena, gazelles and White Rhinos. With tall bushes and long grass the Black Rhinos are becoming harder to see however, there has been a good record of sightings close to the Park headquarters.

Our guests have also enjoyed trips to Hellsgate National Park where in addition to enjoying the spectacular gorge scenery there has been good sightings of buffalo, zebra, warthog, Masai Giraffe, eland, gazelles, warthogs, Masai Ostriches and Cokes Hartebeest and the Ruppell’s Griffon Vultures along the cliff tops.

Back on the ranch at the Loldia School the children finished their exams last week and they are all looking to the holidays which begin this week.

June through until the start of August saw the end of the rainy season with a few downpours at night and an abundance of glowworms and dragonflies. We also enjoyed some spectacular sunsets often mixed in with a thunderous storm on the horizon towards mainland Kenya and Uganda.

Our guests have enjoyed what felt like endless sunshine. All this sunshine has brought warm days of around 28 – 30 C drying up the island and causing Lake Victoria to recede by around 2 feet.

In Mfangano Island Camp the two resident families of Vervet Monkeys are doing well gorging themselves on an abundance of figs with the newborns growing up very quickly. The males are constantly having little scuffs over dominance and are seen regularly with injuries on their haunches. In the quiet sundowner hours one family all descend and socialize on the lawns. The biggest Monitor Lizard in camp measuring about 6ft is often seen in between the rocks on which the honeymoon suite is built on. The Nile Monitors and Land Monitors are also abundant in and around the camp. At least 6 pairs of Hammer-Kops are nesting in camp and often socialize together in the marshy grasses in the evening. The Black Headed weavers are rebuilding a colony in the eves outside the honeymoon suite. Little Egrets, Hadada Ibis, Sacred Ibis, Black Kites, Egyptian Geese, Long-Tailed Cormorants, Greater Cormorants, Pied Kingfishers along with a couple of Wagtails are resident and harmonious grazers on the marshes and lake shore in the camp. The present but more elusive birds seen in camp include the variety of sunbirds, pygmy kingfishers, a pair of Greater Kingfishers, the diurnal Water Thick-Knee, white bellied go-away birds, Woodpeckers (evident only by their occasional tapping in the forest canopy) and an African Harrier hawk was recently spotted which provided a real treat.

Fishing has seen a promising start to the season too. Our first guests enjoyed the thrill of catching 2 x 7kg Nile Perch off Nyakweri Village while out on a laid back honeymoon trawl back from the Mawanga Cave. An 18KG beauty in a battle of wits and stamina which places another name on the record board! Guests also enjoy plentiful wildlife viewing on fishing trips sightings include the African Spotted Necked Otters, Fish Eagles, Monitor Lizards and a bountiful array of other birdlife. Recently we have had guests catching Perch of ¾ kg’s which is going down well for lunch/dinner. Around Nzenze/Atego Island Mfangano’s last crocodile is rumoured to exist, it’s practically a myth with occasional sightings reported by villagers! We were delighted to discover a new den of otters on the north western shore of Nzenze with 5 or 6 individuals.

We hope to share the magic of the life on the lakes in our corner of Africa with you sometime soon

Eyes on nature expeditions Wildlife Adventures is proud to introduce to you the experience of many years of living, traveling and operating overland adventure safaris all over Africa.

Africa is unique and very addictive. One of the most awe-inspiring places on earth, and the chance to experience another world. It is the cradle of all civilization where boundless cultures and traditions mingle with the rarest of creatures.

If you are looking to experience the real Africa, travel with Eyes on nature expeditions Wildlife Adventures and you’ll find it! By combining our multiple adventure trips you can work your way through all the highlights of Eastern Africa. Our departure dates link so that you can travel extensively. You may also like to plan your own itinerary. From bustling cities and pristine beach resorts to ancient deserts, coral reefs and private game reserves, Adventure Travel – Trekking, Birding, Wildlife, Cultural Camping, Overland Safaris and Adventures…- the range of experiences in Africa is endless
offering a wide range of adventure holidays for trekkers, walkers, naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, overland travelers and birders wishing to take advantage of a fully arranged program but not always want to be part of a large group. We try hard to stay away from mass tourism destinations and visit the more remote destinations that we ourselves love so much.

Experience the unbelievable mixture of exotic white beaches, savannah plains, Great Rift Valley – visible from outer space, great lakes and the fantastic wildlife. Contact us for the ultimate, Kenyan safaris.

We know Africa greatest destinations, contact us to book your next vacation here!! more than just a wildlife holiday.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require.

Individual and discounted group rates also available on request. We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

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Explore the wonders of Kenya while helping those less fortunate than yourselves. This two-week journey gives you a wonderful introduction to the famous safari country whilst also providing you with the opportunity to help some of the abandoned children of the area. For Charity Works, Volunteer Tips and vacations.(We are also pioneers in arranging the ultimate Ethical Wild Life Safaris, Volunteer vacations , medical elective placements, corporate company breaks, Outreach mission trips, Educational Student &school trips to Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zanzibar.)

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CHILDREN OF LECDEN-KENYA HOMES

On this trip, you will spend your mornings working at the nearby Children’s Homes, The Children of the LECDEN-KENYA is a children’s home located Nairobi Kiambiu slum,Kibera slum and Kogelo village, Kenya, currently housing over 500 abandoned boys and girls, ranging from five to sixteen years old. The children live in dormitories, furnished with small wooden beds. They have access to drop toilets, water and basic showers. There is limited clothing, medical supplies and no school transport.

One way you can help the children of the Home is to become a FRIEND OF LECDEN-KENYA and materially, financially and morally support the work of the Home. As a FRIEND OF LECDEN-KENYA, we promise good governance and transparency in all program activities through our quarterly reports and newsletters.

Through your generous donations and gifts our children will get provision of education, good food, medical care, and clothing

Let us Feed, Clothe & Educate the Poor,Imagine living in a squatter/slum/ village in a makeshift home constructed out of scrap metal and cardboard, with mud floors, and no electricity or water.
Imagine raising your kids in this place with hardly any food to eat. This is the plight of squatters/slum/village in the in Kiambiu slum,Kibera slum and Kogelo village. No land, makeshift homes, little to eat, no work & no education for their children. Help make their lives a little brighter.
Through your generous donations and gifts our children will get provision of education, good food, medical care.

We can offer you the chance to work on Game and Nature Reserves alongside Conservationists, Zoologists, Wildlife Vets and Reserve Managers. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and countries, with no previous experience necessary, from the age of 17 upwards. Volunteer Placements are from 1-3 months, and you can combine 2 or more projects in one trip. You could join a placement as part of a Gap Year , in a summer break from school or university, or as part of a career break or sabbatical. We also welcome retirees!

Join us for the experience of a lifetime in Africa and make a genuine contribution to the preservation of one of the World’s most diverse and vulnerable ecosystems.
Work in Big 5 country in the heart of the African bush
Get involved in Game Capture for tagging and relocation
Wildlife Veterinary work
Behavioural studies on Elephants and Leopard
Whale and Dolphin research
Rehabilitation of orphaned and injured animals
Learn how horses  can support conservation
Discover the thrill of Sleep-Outs under the African stars
Complete a Game Ranger Guide course
Rewarding Cultural Placement . Help with whatever you are good at! Teaching, Sports, Music, Computers…

EXPERIENCE AMAZING ADVENTURES

• Supporting Conservation – We make sure that our projects are of real conservation value and make a positive, worthwhile contribution to the wildlife and ecosystems of Eastern Africa. All Our reputation means that we often get approached to support new projects – we try to get involved in conservation programmes that we know would not be able to run financially without us, thereby maximising the impact of our resources.

• Supporting You – We place great importance on getting to know you as a volunteer and on providing you with a strong support structure throughout your placement. Trained and qualified co-ordinators on each project are there not only to guide the work that is done, but also to make sure that you operate safely in the bush environment and to be there to deal with any problems that may arise, however big or small!

MAKE A DIFFERENCE
We believe that sustainable conservation initiatives need long-term support that pays for more than just the basics. This is why up to 5% to 10% of your placement fee goes directly to the projects to pay not only for your food and accommodation but also for vehicles, good staff wages, camp maintenance and equipment – the continued existence of the project! Everyone

In a world of diminishing natural environments, Africa remains one
of the few continents that still offers wide, open spaces, wild spectacular grandeur glorious sunsets, animals living as nature intended, and colourful friendly people with their age-old customs displayed proudly in a parody
of past events in tribal folklore.

Our website is a just a ‘snack’. A prelude to the feast , which we guarantee will last you a lifetime.
You will be part of a ‘unique’ world for brief period in the passage of time.

You don’t have to be a travel writer to use the world’s dreamiest phrase. All you need to do is buy an airplane ticket, and when your friends ask where you’re going, unleash the magic: “Oh, I’m headed to Africa…”

But having now deployed this vague seduction on a number of occasions, I’m growing disenchanted with it. My complaint is that it’s imprecise. For though the phrase is rich in suggestion, it’s starved for specificity. And Africa, as I’ve come to appreciate, is the most specific place on Earth.

This dusty elephant family, which congregated around a nearly dry riverbed, would soon be soothed by the rains of April and May. I headed to Kenya, an East African nation roughly twice the size of Nevada, in early spring just before the rainy season settled in.

Discover a new world…

We believe that there is much more to a wildlife holiday than the list of species and a full itinerary. Supporting conservation and showing our travellers the whole world of wildlife, during an easy but comprehensive natural history holiday are guiding principles when planning our trips. Providing opportunities and time to learn about local cultures and enjoy beautiful scenery are also key ingredients, as well as being flexible enough to adapt to our travellers’ particular interests.

Over the past 22 years, we at Wildlife Travel have worked closely with local conservation partners to ensure that we support nature conservation during our travels, whilst considering both environmental and social issues, adding an extra and vitally important dimension to your holiday. We have developed a high standard of leader quality and customer care, enabling us to offer you the traveler many of the best wildlife experiences in the world, whether you have a general interest in wildlife or want a more particular focus, and all in a comfortable way at a relaxed holiday pace.

All profits from Wildlife Travel are donated to The Wildlife Trusts and every holiday is designed to support nature conservation at our destination. Travel with us and make a difference.

Eyes On Nature Expeditions Safaris offers African Safaris in Kenya which include Kenya Major Holidays in Kenya Africa. Our services include city tours, travel to wildlife destinations, adventure destinations, adventure safaris, cultural tours, eco-tours, and beach destinations in Kenya.

You can book wildlife resorts, holidays tours, camp safaris to Kenya national parks, bush safaris, safari migrations, Kenya lodge safaris, Kenya balloon safaris, Samburu safaris, camp safaris and Kenya national parks.

Travel to national parks and scenic regions of Kenya and have an unforgettable Kenyan Safaris and holidays, luxury Kenya safaris, Kenya safari camps, Kenya Africa safari. Eyes On Nature Expeditions takes care of all your travel arrangements to Kenya. Have a memorable safari holiday in Kenya with Eyes On Nature Expeditions Safaris.

Experience the unbelievable mixture of exotic white beaches, savannah plains, Great Rift Valley – visible from outer space, great lakes and the fantastic wildlife. Contact us for the ultimate, Kenyan safaris.

The Masai Mara received little rain this month, just 17.5mm with the grass slowly drying out, turning to a tawny colour and the roads becoming dusty. The grassland has been grazed right down in patches but we still have some good, lush grazing in the Musiara area as the herds of wildebeest are making good work of the grass up on Rhino Ridge. The marsh has all but dried out except for the main spring and the central pools at ‘Lake Nakuru’. Our hippo pool near the airstrip has also dried out leaving a mud bath which is heaven for the warthogs.

The temperatures have been a bit cooler as these are our winter months with daytime temperatures averaging about 24 C. As we are a couple of degrees south of the equator the temperature decreases by 5-10 C at this time of year with cooler mornings and evenings, however the mid day temperature remains quite warm.

The elephant are no longer grazing the long grass on the plains as it has dried and is less nutritious. The majority of the large herds that were in and around the marsh area in the last few months have now moved out to the acacia woodland and into the riverine forest. Resident herds of elephant that we have come to know very well, frequent the forest around the camps at night breaking branches and leaving football size presents in the morning to clear up.

Buffalos too, have relocated to the periphery of the forest, moving in to graze at night feeding on the lush green grass that remains under the forest canopy. We also had an unusual sighting of two massive buffalos fighting almost to the death near the airstrip, no females around and not a known territory. The main breeding herd of between 400 and 500 have been circulating between the marsh and Rhino ridge.

The Warburgia Ugandensis (African green-heart tree) is the only tree with any fruit in the area, so many of the animals are coming in to the forests to feed from it; from elephant, baboons, Blue Monkeys and Brown Parrots.

There have been a few sightings of a very large 4 meter long African Rock Python near Mbila Shaka, a rare and awesome animal to see. Other rare sightings have been 2 very young caracal cubs hiding in the grass. These cats are a treat to see as we may only see them a dozen times a year. They are smaller, fairly strongly built and lynx like with tufts on their ears. The Side-striped Jackal has been in the area too, a small wolf like jackal with a thick coat, but very shy.

The annual migration of wildebeest and zebra has come into our area in smaller herds of a few thousand or so. They are very quick to move with various groups coming onto Rhino Ridge and down to the Musiara airstrip and then disappearing just as quickly. The main concentration we believe are still to come, they are down towards Look Out Hill near the Tanzanian border and many still in Tanzania. However we have had some large river crossings at the main crossing area near Paradise Plains, numbering 5000 – 10000. These occurred mid month, earlier on in the morning which is not typical as the wildebeest will often wait for it to get hot and then take tentative steps towards the water for a drink and then decide to go for the plunge! There have been many crossings since, but in smaller numbers.

After a short absence of cheetah in the area our female cheetah and her young cub have returned and have taken to jumping on the bonnets of the vehicles, the cub a little small yet. Sadly the cub looks to be blind in one eye but this does not seem to impair it too badly. They seem to be preying on gazelles only as the wildebeest calves may be too much of a challenge for her. The three brother cheetahs have been seen regularly now, but they now move huge distances. They do not seem to be fraternizing with any females but are rather spending their time hunting, ranging from the Talek river to the Koiyaki area out of the reserve and back to us at the Musiara Marsh. They are confident enough to be taking on young wildebeest. The single female cheetah which was seen mating with the brothers over a month ago now has been back in the area, but not for long, moving out as quickly as she had arrived. Not looking pregnant yet, if she is it will not show for some time.

We have had some wonderful leopard sightings this month, our beautiful resident female who has been a common feature of our game drives has been seen in her usual territory around the camps and the marsh. However she tends to remain elusive during the day and mostly appears in the later evenings. A very large male leopard has been in the marsh area, perhaps he is checking on the female as a potential partner. He is a shy leopard and rarely seen.

The female leopard Olive and her two cubs are still together and well, moving from across the Talek river back onto the Olare Orok river. One of our guides had the pleasure of watching her make a kill of a young wildebeest right in front of his vehicle, amazing! There is another female leopard not very far from Olive, she too has two smaller cubs and are seen on occasion.

The Marsh Pride of lion are well ensconced near the Musiara Marsh, with so much potential prey around they are not moving very far and are spending a lot of their time together. The pride have been hunting wildebeest on a regular basis. Three of the sub adult males are still spending most of their time with one of the lionesses. She incidentally has been mating with the dominant male. There are still the nine sub adults and nine cubs of the new generation, three of which are still fairly small at about six weeks old. The smallest cubs have been coming out and following their mother around. The second pride male has been near the pride, but is looking in bad shape and is not interacting with the rest of the pride at all now. He is missing all but one tooth and is limping badly from a fight he had not long ago. It seems his days with the pride may be numbered.

The Ridge Pride have been up in the rocky area on top of Rhino ridge amongst the herds of wildebeest. Surrounded by prey the pride are not having to venture very far.

At last the Paradise Pride of lions have given the hippo a rest and are feasting primarily on wildebeest and zebra. This may be as a result of all the male lions having moved across the river to their other lionesses. Notch the dominant male of the pride appears to be healthy although he is getting quite old now. The pride has been having fantastic success hunting on the Mara River banks at the wildebeest crossing sites. One of these lionesses took down three wildebeest as they exited the river one day. Lions being opportunists will capitalise on these situations. One of the six month old cubs had injured a leg and has not been seen recently, so we will be looking out for him.

The vultures have also been feeding well at the crossing points, cleaning up what the lions and scavengers leave behind.
Back in Camp we have been doing lots of re-furbishing of all the camps. and they are looking stunning. The tents at Governors’ Camp have lovely new interiors and we have re-done the bathrooms. There are also new family tents which sleep up to five people in one tent and the deck overlooking the Mara River has been re-done.

Governors’ family tent and bathroom

Little Governors’ Camp has new tent interior furnishings and the mess tent at Il Moran has a whole new feel.

Little Governors’ tent and Il Moran mess tent

We hope to share the magic of our corner of the Mara with you sometime soon.

Eyes on nature expeditions Wildlife Adventures is proud to introduce to you the experience of many years of living, traveling and operating overland adventure safaris all over Africa.

Africa is unique and very addictive. One of the most awe-inspiring places on earth, and the chance to experience another world. It is the cradle of all civilization where boundless cultures and traditions mingle with the rarest of creatures.

If you are looking to experience the real Africa, travel with Eyes on nature expeditions Wildlife Adventures and you’ll find it! By combining our multiple adventure trips you can work your way through all the highlights of Eastern Africa. Our departure dates link so that you can travel extensively. You may also like to plan your own itinerary. From bustling cities and pristine beach resorts to ancient deserts, coral reefs and private game reserves, Adventure Travel – Trekking, Birding, Wildlife, Cultural Camping, Overland Safaris and Adventures…- the range of experiences in Africa is endless
offering a wide range of adventure holidays for trekkers, walkers, naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, overland travelers and birders wishing to take advantage of a fully arranged program but not always want to be part of a large group. We try hard to stay away from mass tourism destinations and visit the more remote destinations that we ourselves love so much.

Governors Private Camp, Masai Mara Safari Kenya

To enhance and complete the services of Governors Camp in the Masai Mara National Reserve, Governors Family of Camps devised Governors Private Safari Camp.

Governors Private Camp has all the assets of an individually tailored mobile safari, with the added bonus of the highly specialized experience and backup of Governors Camp. The professional and well-established infrastructure that operates behind the scenes makes it possible for the organization, to offer the full services and facilities of Governors Camp to Governors Private Camp throughout the year.

Governors Private Camp is located in the Masai Mara, Kenya in a unique area with a constant and unrivalled flow of wildlife throughout the year. From July to October the Mara becomes a backdrop for one of the last great natural wonders of the world, when over 1.4 million wildebeest and zebra surge up from the Tanzania’s Serengeti plains in their annual search for the seasonal grasses that sustain them. The spectacle as the vast herds cross rivers and sweep through the golden grasses, is punctuated by individual struggles with the predators, which are in turn drawn to take their part in this dramatic event. Birds and butterflies abound, elephants wander through the camp at night, leopard’s call nearby. Nowhere else can you get so far from civilization, yet stay in such style.

Tell Me More About Governors Private Camp Located In Masai Mara as an Africa Vacations & Kenya Vacation Accommodation

Kenya Safari Accommodation And More at Governors Private Camp

• Governors Private Camp can be booked by individual clients, families, or by small parties, who want the exclusivity of a private safari camp without the daunting costs normally associated with this degree of luxury.
• It caters for up to 16 people, in Governors Camp tents, which have developed through the years and now adapted, without any compromise, for Governors Private Camp.
• All meals, drinks (except champagne), three game drives daily, game walks as well as laundry are included in the price.

Africa Kenya Vacation Meals and Relaxation At Governors Private Camp

• Governors Private Camp executive chef is responsible for planning the menus and for ensuring that the food is of the highest possible standard.
• Governors Private Camp has gone to great lengths to maintain the traditional African safari atmosphere and the comforts that have been incorporated do not in any way detract from this concept.

Governors Private Safari Camp Summary

• Location: On the Mara River in the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya.
• Number of beds: 8 tents (maximum 16 beds).
• Double & Twins: Twins and double tents as per request.
• Facilities: En-suite bathrooms with bucket showers, basin, flush toilet, hot and cold water.
• Tents: Spacious luxurious safari tents under canvas, each with private verandah.
• Electricity: Gas & Paraffin lamps in tents. (220 Volt plugs at Governors Camp).
• Restaurant: Dining tent with view over the Mara River.
• Room service: Room service on request, tea and coffee is served at the tents with wake up call.
• Laundry: Daily at no extra cost.
• Communication: Telephone, fax and e-mail at Governors Camp, radio contact with other camps and Nairobi office.

Experience the unbelievable mixture of exotic white beaches, savannah plains, Great Rift Valley – visible from outer space, great lakes and the fantastic wildlife. Contact us for the ultimate, Kenyan safaris.

We know Africa greatest destinations, contact us to book your next vacation here!! more than just a wildlife holiday.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require.

Individual and discounted group rates also available on request. We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

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As we enter high season we have been very busy at the lodge.

We definitely entered the long dry season early this year with the weather drying out by mid June and very little rain falling apart from a few drops towards the middle and end of July, the only significant rainstorm fell on the afternoon of the 21st July, when in true tropical style we received 21 mm/m² in a few hours. As this is our “winter time”, temperatures have been pretty cool in the evenings, below 10° Celsius, and most of the time the sky has been cloudy, and the air misty or hazy. The Volcanoes made a few brief appearances from behind the veil of misty haze…

Despite the mist, the gorilla sightings have been great. Normally the mammals of Volcanoes National Park, including Mountain Gorillas, tend to be more on the move during the dry season and their movements become more unpredictable as they go in search of rich and palatable food that is becoming scarcer. However, most guests did not have to trek too long to see the gorillas, and most were back at the lodge in the early afternoon to have lunch and relax quietly for the rest of the day, unless they preferred to visit one of the other points of interest in the volcanoes area.

The major development in the gorilla population was that the Susa Group, that had split and joined back together numerous times during the last few months, has now definitely split into two separate groups. ‘Susa-A’ has been named ‘Susa’ Group and ‘Susa-B’ was renamed the ‘Karisimbi’ Group, as the family live in the Mt. Karisimbi area of the national park. Although the Susa Group can usually be found not too far into the forest, the “new” Karisimbi Group will be visited only by hardcore hikers, they have pretty much established their home range quite far (and high) on the slopes of the Karisimbi caldera… making a trip to see them a full-days trek indeed!

With the formation of this new gorilla family the Park authorities have agreed to increase the number of gorilla permits available each day to 64.

Back in the lodge we continue to have exciting sightings. On the 12th of July, for the second time in the last four months, an African Wild Cat was sighted by two observers in the lodge’s grounds in the late afternoon. Although the species is still included in the official Mammal List of Volcanoes National Park, no confirmed records of the cat had been reported for many of years, until now…

We hope to share the magic of the Virunga Volcanoes with you sometime soon.

Eyes on nature expeditions Wildlife Adventures is proud to introduce to you the experience of many years of living, traveling and operating overland adventure safaris all over Africa.

Africa is unique and very addictive. One of the most awe-inspiring places on earth, and the chance to experience another world. It is the cradle of all civilization where boundless cultures and traditions mingle with the rarest of creatures.

If you are looking to experience the real Africa, travel with Eyes on nature expeditions Wildlife Adventures and you’ll find it! By combining our multiple adventure trips you can work your way through all the highlights of Eastern Africa. Our departure dates link so that you can travel extensively. You may also like to plan your own itinerary. From bustling cities and pristine beach resorts to ancient deserts, coral reefs and private game reserves, Adventure Travel – Trekking, Birding, Wildlife, Cultural Camping, Overland Safaris and Adventures…- the range of experiences in Africa is endless
offering a wide range of adventure holidays for trekkers, walkers, naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, overland travelers and birders wishing to take advantage of a fully arranged program but not always want to be part of a large group. We try hard to stay away from mass tourism destinations and visit the more remote destinations that we ourselves love so much.

Experience the unbelievable mixture of exotic white beaches, savannah plains, Great Rift Valley – visible from outer space, great lakes and the fantastic wildlife. Contact us for the ultimate, Kenyan safaris.

We know Africa greatest destinations, contact us to book your next vacation here!! more than just a wildlife holiday.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require.

Individual and discounted group rates also available on request. We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

Read More

Hi friend,

Picture this…..floating in mid air at the dawn of the morning with a cool and crisp breeze…and lo! below you, are hundreds of wild animals in the plains….you take a shot here and there and continue clicking….excitement rises…what you are experiencing is the sheer thrill of a balloon safari. At the end of it all…you land in the middle of the plains and you are treated to a heart full breakfast with Champagne to gulp up your appetite. Now this is the adrenalin of the Maasai Mara in the air. A Visit to the Maasai mara is capped with this rare excitement of game viewing from a hot air balloon.
Preparation

The adventure begins just before dawn. The pilot lights up the banners and as the flames flare and the balloon begins to inflate. The first, pink tongues of sunlight flicker across the skies and the balloon fills then rises. Suspended in a basket beneath the rainbow coloured canopy, you’re off for an awesome game-viewing adventure.

One thing that amazes most first-time balloonists is the absolute stillness, the silence as you float above the plains, the forest and the rivers of the Masai Mara. And suddenly you are flown elsewhere and everywhere, you’ve seen nothing like this. The sounds below drift clearly upwards: a lion’s roar, elephants crashing through the bush, baboons perched in the tips of the trees startled and screeching to see something above them.

For an hour or so you drift wherever the air currents take you. If you’re lucky you’ll climb high above for the view of a lifetime. Then your balloon safari finishes with a flourish. In the time honored tradition of balloon flights the world over, you toast your return to earth with a champagne breakfast. The difference is that this breakfast happens in the bush, wherever you land, and it’s cooked as you see with the burners that minutes before kept you suspended in the air.
Safety and Requirements
Passengers should be able to climb in and out of a basket and stand for the duration of the flight. Warm clothing is required for early mornings.

Variety of flights
Flights last an average of 1 hour over the Masai Mara. Balloon flights often get booked up in advance, we recommend you book early.

Best times to go
Available most of the year round but subject to prevailing weather conditions. All balloon flights begin soon after dawn, it means an early start.

The hot-air balloon safari is available with
- An hour’s balloon flight
- Services of an experienced guide
- Return transport from the camp
- Game drive after the flight
- Special champagne breakfast
- Balloon safari certificate to commemorate the special flight
- Hot air balloon safari participation

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We pride ourselves in the fact that our safari guests can immerse themselves in Africa’s broad savannahs and remarkable wildlife with complete peace of mind, knowing that they are in the safe hands of Eyes on Nature Expeditions. No group is too large or too small for our tour company – at the end of the safari, we are always friends.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require. Individual and discounted group rates also available on request

We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

Yours Sincerely,
STEVE

Hi friend,

We specialize in bringing you the real experience; show you the Africa you could never imagine. We hope you will come away with a new understanding of East Africa, Kenya and Tanzania, and Uganda.

Come to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, they are the only countries with an abundance of wildlife, and the “True African Bush”. No wineries, no marinas, just wildlife. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come each year; it still is one of the safest places in the world. So why not you?

Come with us, Eyes on nature expeditions on a journey of a lifetime, a vacation unlike any other you have taken. From the time you arrive, you are met with a warm Kenyan smile and you are hand carried throughout your whole safari, with your needs in mind, to make this your lifelong dream, a reality.

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Our Wildlife Photographic safaris range from the Standard to the Luxury; we customize your safari to fit your needs. In our safaris, we have Eco Tours into villages you would not otherwise be able to see, from the Samburu in the north (cousin to the Maasai), to the Maasai in the south at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, to the Kamba tribe who are in a faming community. We also visit rural schools, Pre-schools, homes and farms.
These special trips are so that you, the traveler will get to see another way of life. Not so rushed as ours, and how they really live. You will be met with many smiles, and very warm handshakes. We also may have special occasion safaris, like a Wedding in a Maasai village, be watching for those dates. During the safari you will have the opportunity to shop for beaded art work, materials, beautiful hand carved wood animals and masks.

In addition, we are also able to book South Africa Safaris.

Now my full attention is on showing others my new found home and new found families. A portion of all monies earned by Eyes on nature expeditions goes toward helping fund work books for four different schools, help to raise funds to help re-forest areas in Kenya, searching for funding for a water well in a village of 500 plus people, raising funds for a pre-school.

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We are able to offer a special type of safari to those that are currently flying light aircraft. If you have enough hours flying, have experience in “high” and “hot” fields, give me a call, make this truly a dream trip, it takes a lot of planning so call me so we can get started.

We work with a Land Tour Company that has over 25 years experience in providing the best Driver-Guides in the industry. They are all graduates of the prestigious Utalii (tourism) College, where refresher courses and seminars are given periodically to maintain the highest standards. As such they offer the traveler expert knowledge of both the area and all forms of wildlife while providing excellence of service as well as ease and comfort of accommodations while on safari.

Call us, book now, children and Grandparents are welcome. Do you want a special vacation shared by your complete family, something to tell your friends about, tailored to your specific needs of your family, create your own great African travel stories? Give your children a cultural experience they’ll remember a lifetime, and share it with them. Contact us; we can plan your special safari trip. So come with us, Eyes on nature expeditions ,we go there often; we know the country and the people. When your safari is finished, you will have many photos, that when you are looking at them at home, will be able to remember each place, each face, and can relive your trip over and over.

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Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require. Individual and discounted group rates also available on request

We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

Yours Sincerely,
STEVE

Although the month of March traditionally heralds the start of the rains in Rwanda, this year it has been mostly dry. The few heavy rainstorms that have occurred, have mostly been in the late afternoon and evenings. On a few mornings, there has been light rain as our guests depart the Lodge but by the time our guests have started their Gorilla trek it had cleared. Total rainfall recorded during the month was 286 mm.

Gorilla Groups 13 and Sabyinyo have been popular with guests and, on a number of occasions, these groups have been found on the Park’s boundary very close to the Lodge. Group 13 consists of 25 individuals, including 1 Silverback, while the Sabyinyo group consists of 10 individuals, including 1 Silverback. Both of these groups live in the forest above the Lodge and guests visiting them usually return to the Lodge well before lunch. Another very popular group for our guests has been the Kwitondo group of 18 individuals, which, at the moment, has 3 Silverbacks, 2 Blackbacks and one very small baby. This group also lives not too far from the Lodge. One intrepid group of our guests visited the famous Susa group, which in total, numbers 41 individuals, including 6 Silverbacks. Unfortunately, this group has split into 2 groups so you are unlikely to see so many Mountain Gorillas together. Even so, our guests thoroughly enjoyed the Susa group and recommended it to other guests.

One other activity that many of our guests have experienced and enjoyed, is a visit to the Golden Monkeys. A troop of over 100 Golden Monkeys lives in the bamboo forest, on which they mainly feed, very near to our Lodge. Golden Monkeys only occur in the Virunga Mountains and a visit to them is highly recommended. These monkeys are closely related to Blue Monkeys, which occur in forest opposite Governors’ and Il Moran Camps in the Masai Mara. The walk to see them is generally less strenuous than a Gorilla trek  and the monkeys tend to be very playful, jumping about in the bamboo forests!

Another activity that has proved quite popular is a visit to the Twin Lakes, Lakes Burera and Lake Ruhondo. This can take place in the afternoon after your Gorilla trek. Afternoons at the Lodge, at this time of the year are often quite cool but, once your vehicle descends towards Ruhengeri and on to the lakes, the weather changes and it is usually sunny and warm.

The Lodge grounds, which are slowly returning to their original plant life, have many interesting wild flowers and birds. The common wildflowers occurring include Desmodium repandum, Crassocephalum vitellnum, Cyanotis arachnoids. Many of the Hypericum bushes are in flower, the scent from the Hypericum is quite strong and distinctive and many guests comment on the pleasant smell in the Lodge grounds. Flocks of tiny Black-headed Waxbills are very common and, occasionally, their relative Yellow-bellied Waxbills are also seen. Some of the birds are a little confusing, for instance, the White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher, a common highland bird in East Africa, has no white ring around the eye, while both sexes of another common East African bird the, Baglafecht Weaver, looks similar to the female Baglafecht Weaver. During the early and middle of the month, flocks of migrating European Bee-eaters could be heard and, occasionally, seen high over the Lodge. Small numbers of Steppe Buzzards and, one day, a single Steppe Eagle was also seen. All of these birds are on their way north to breed in Europe. Other birds of prey regularly seen, are Augur Buzzard, including a melanistic individual, Mountain Buzzard, Great Sparrowhawk and a pair of  Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawks, which regularly hunt in the vicinity of the Lodge. One day, one of the Sparrowhawks swooped and caught a Black-headed Waxbill within a metre of a client. Chameleons are very common and one day a Mountain Buzzard swooped down and caught one, again, very close to where guests were standing, and not to forget, a pair of White-necked Raven, which have started visiting the Lodge at breakfast time.

Finally, it has been potato harvest time in this part of Rwanda. Everywhere the people have been busy harvesting their potatoes and then preparing their land for the next crop. Many of these potatoes are transported to the nearest town, Ruhengeri, in sacks on the backs of bicycles, whose riders seem absolutely fearless as they swoop around the many bends in the road.

We hope to share the magic of the Virunga Volcanoes with you sometime soon.

We know Africa greatest destinations, contact us to book your next vacation here!! more than just a wildlife holiday.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or assistance that you may require. Individual and discounted group rates also available on request

We aim to create that special relationship which converts our business partners and visitors into life longtime friends.

Yours Sincerely,

STEVE

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The Masai Mara had some heavy rain up until the end of the month then the weather dried out and we had a week of glorious weather. The temperature averaged about 28 degrees Celsius and we received 191.5mm of rainfall over the month of May. The Mara River rose almost to capacity a few times mostly due to rain at the source in the Mau forest on the western escarpment of the Rift Valley. All this rain followed by sunshine has caused a flurry of growth out on the plains and the savannah grasses are fantastically long, the red oats grasses are showing their fruiting seed, giving an orange tinge to the plains towards the Serengeti.

The Masai Mara had some heavy rain up until the end of the month then the weather dried out and we had a week of glorious weather. The temperature averaged about 28 degrees Celsius and we received 191.5mm of rainfall over the month of May. The Mara River rose almost to capacity a few times mostly due to rain at the source in the Mau forest on the western escarpment of the Rift Valley. All this rain followed by sunshine has caused a flurry of growth out on the plains and the savannah grasses are fantastically long, the red oats grasses are showing their fruiting seed, giving an orange tinge to the plains towards the Serengeti.

Birding has been great this month with a few species hatching young chicks and teaching their fledglings how to gather the abundant insects that are about. We still have hundreds of Open-Billed Storks in the marsh as well as a small flock of White Storks preparing for their flight back to Europe. The Jacksons Widow Bird male has been hopping up and down in the grass displaying to females, as well as many of the Fantailed and a few White-Winged Widow birds. Some of the less common birds seen were the Leviallant’s Cuckoo, Marshal Eagle, Dark-Chanting Goshawk, Grey-Headed Bush Shrike and Double-Toothed Barbet.

There are three herds of buffalo in our area at the moment, one herd is remaining close to the Marsh and it numbers around 600 individuals and two herds above the ridge numbering 300 and 200 individuals.

Massive herds of Elephants have been milling around the Musiara Marsh area and moving up to Rhino Ridge eating the grass on the plains. We have had a large presence of bull elephants, some a little testy and in musth, but mostly just content to eat alongside the female herds. A couple of mating sessions was witnessed, which is an incredible sight.

With all the elephant and buffalo manure to take care of we have had an influx of the larger species of dung beetle. They are not seen as regularly rolling their balls along, but simply dig below a prospective meal as the ground is soft in most places. The dung beetle will stash their ball below the surface and lay an egg, this will eventually hatch and the larvae will feed on the dung until it metamorphosis’s and digs its way up to the surface as an adult.

The hyena packs are fairly scattered as they are mostly scavenging at this time of year. There is one hyena den site close to the airstrip with three small black pups and two larger ones just changing colour now at about seven months or so. The scavenging took on a large scale this month when  some of our guests had an incredible sighting of twenty three hyena chasing three lions off a buffalo kill, the noise and energy were unbelievable.

The Marsh Pride have scattered a bit this month, only being seen in two’s and three’s. At the beginning of the month they were spending their time in the plains close to the Marsh, and then they moved into Masai Land bordering the Masai Mara Game Reserve where their territory extends up to Leopard Gorge and to the west. In these areas the grass has been mostly grazed down by Masai cattle making perfect grazing conditions for plains game. Big herds of zebra have come in to these areas from the Loita Plains area in the east, all this game has been an attraction for the Marsh Pride. Towards the end of the month most of the pride headed back to the Musiara Marsh area.

The Ridge Pride have been seen more frequently in their usual, smaller territory. There seem to be the two pride males, three females and three cubs. They have had some lean times, but are doing well enough with the large numbers of warthog in the area.

The Paradise Pride are doing exceptionally well, they have spent more time as a pride as their hunting tactics differ. They have become specialist hippo hunters managing to take down three hippos during May. There is also plenty of plains game in their territory, as the grass is shorter in a few areas. The six males are still together, although sometimes spending time apart from each other. We are not certain which males, but certainly the younger ones cross the river to visit another pride of females. Having a coalition of six males, they most definitely call the shots in that area.

The three cheetah brothers have spent most of their time up on the high plains. This area has been slightly grazed down by the large herds of topi and other plains game that have continued to stay in this preferred area. This area gives them a great vantage point to see predators and they have added security of safety in numbers. The three boys have obviously been attracted by the bounty of prey on these plains. They have had some success hunting Topi on the shorter grass, but have mainly been concentrating on the warthog in the bordering longer grass.

There has been a single female cheetah in our area which we believe to be pregnant.  A second lesser known female was also seen within our area with two cubs of about eight or nine months old.

Shakira and her cubs have not been sighted, we are sure they must still be on the west side of the Mara River. The river has been high for many months prohibiting her movement back onto our side.

This month we enjoyed some wonderful leopard sightings close to the camps with two leopards regularly making an appearance. The large male made his presence felt between the forest and the Marsh and the female leopard, which we have become well acquainted with, has frequented the Ilmoran area and the small patch of forest in the Marsh near ‘Lake Nakuru.’

Back in camp a family of giraffe have been regular night visitors sleeping on the grass in front of the plains tents giving guests a wonderful view in the early mornings.

We hope to share the magic of our corner of the Mara with you sometime soon.

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Yours Sincerely,

STEVE

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