Hiking safaris in kenya

Hiking safaris in Kenya.

Biking and walking could also be done on Mountain Bikes. Bikes are supplied though you are welcome to bring your own. We have purpose built trailers for transporting the bikes and a back-up vehicle follows each cycling safari at a discrete distance. Back-up vehicles carry extra water and food as well as personal belongings that you don't want in your day-pack. They also carry tired riders! Often another back-up vehicle goes ahead to set up camp, prepare the meal and the welcome hot-water showers!

Trekking safaris in Kenya can be several half day stints combined with game drives and bikes or can be a journey in itself. A trip could take you from the outskirts of Nairobi down into the Great Rift Valley and across to Lake Naivasha Kenya and on to Lakes Nakuru, Baringo and Bogoria viewing much wildlife along the way and flamingos by the million. We stay off the main roads, avoiding the traffic and enjoying the peace and wide open spaces.

A guide will lead the way and a bicycle mechanic rides at the rear to attend to any punctures etc and a back-up vehicle all combine to give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy the trip to the fullest.

3 DAYS MASAI MARA – Walking, Cycling and Game viewing - Ref : BT 055

Day 1: Depart Nairobi 0900hrs from a central prearranged pickup point, passing extinct volcanoes Longonot & Suswa en-route. On reaching Narok, the administrative centre for the district, a packed lunch will be served. Reaching camp at approximately 1500hrs, settle in and thereafter a walk in the surrounding hills and valleys, possibly seeing plains game and thereafter returning to camp as the sun sets over the western skies to a hot shower, drinks around the campfire and dinner. Chat around the campfire before retiring for the night.

Day 2: Breakfast before heading into the Masai Mara Game Reserve for a day of game viewing. Park fees are for your own account and are payable at the main entrance of the park. The Masai Mara offers variety and numbers of game unparalleled in any other park in Kenya. A packed lunch will be served on arrival at the hippo pool, in the company of large schools of hippos. Thereafter your route changes arriving at camp in the late afternoon as dusk approaches. Dinner and a chat around the fire before retiring for the night.

Day 3: An early breakfast before departing on bicycles for a ride up the Sekenani Valley, perhaps seeing varied game and wonderful views on your journey. After returning to camp we will pack our bags and return to Nairobi arriving at approximately 1600hrs.
Price: US$ 420 Per person valid until December 2006.

Cost includes:
Transport in an 8 seater minibus; Driver-Guide; sharing accommodation in shared tents; meals on safari; camp fees;
Cost excludes:
Park fees; sleeping bag (for hire); tips; expenses of a personal nature; medical and evacuation insurance (available on request);

What to bring:
A sleeping bag, personal toiletries, towel, soap, a jeasy for the cool of mornings and evenings, comfortable walking, cycling shoes; shorts and tee shirts; sunblock25, torch, film; reading material and binoculars are recommended.

* Minimum for guaranteed departure: 3 pax
Tipping guidelines in Kenya shilling,
* Driver guide: Kshs 750 Per person per day
* Camp staff: Kshs 100 per client per stay per staff member.
* For schools groups we recommend Kshs 100 per participant.

5 nights , 6 days CYCLING. - Ref BT 056

Day 1...depart from a central point at 0900hrs, heading in a north westerly direction we descend into The Great Rift Valley. On reaching Narok, the administrative centre for the district, we will eat our packed lunch. Reaching camp at Barakitabu at approximately 1500hrs, we will settle in before proceeding on a late afternoon walk across the plains. Return to camp for a hot shower, drinks around the camp fire before dinner. After dinner a chat around the campfire before retiring for the night to the sounds of the wind in the trees and the occasional animal noise. Overnight at Barakitabu.

Day 2...awaken at 0700hrs, breakfast and set out for your mornings ride to Naikerra - a small trading centre, before returning for lunch at camp. A walk in the afternoon, visiting a traditional homestead, experience their hospitality and enjoying the sun setting across the horizon before returning to camp for dinner and overnight - Barakitabu.

Day 3...Breakfast completed our ride will take us across the plains with the morning sun on our backs and the wind in our hair; enjoy viewing the numerous varieties of flora and fauna that can be seen on the way. We will reach our camp at Sekenani in time for lunch and thereafter relax before setting out for an afternoons walk in the surrounding valleys and hills, where game can often be seen. Dinner and overnight at Sekenani.

Day 4...A full day game viewing in the Masai Mara Game Reserve where there are many varieties of big and small game; the area being famous for its black maned lions. Lunch with hippos and experience the wide open spaces as seen from your safari vehicle. Return to camp before nightfall, dinner and overnight at Olperr-Elongo camp Sekenani.

Day 5...today’s bike ride will be on the plains in the morning, returning to camp for lunch and then following a different routing in the afternoon. Viewing of game on these rides is exciting though the game tends to keep their distance! Return to camp for dinner and overnight at Olperr-Elongo camp; Sekenani.

Day 6...after breakfast, our ride will take us along the road to Narok with lunch en-route, before loading the bikes and setting out for the return to Nairobi, arriving at around 1700hrs. Arrangement ends.
Price: US$ 900 per person
Includes: transport by safari vehicle; driver-guide and staff to guide and maintain bikes; backup vehicle; accommodation in sharing tents; toilets and showers; full board on safari; camp fees; mountain bike.
Excludes: extras of a personal nature; park entrance fee[US$27 per day]; medical and evacuation insurance[can be arranged locally for 1 month in Kenya];tips.
Things to bring:
* walking, riding shoes/cool wear for the day and warm wear for the evenings including raincoat /windcheater.
* Personal toiletries/sunblock 30+/insect repellent
* sunglasses/cap or hat
* torch
* book to read
* sense of humour.

9 nights / 10 days CYCLING – Ref BT 057

Itinerary.
Day 1
Depart from a central point at 0900hrs, heading in a north westerly direction we descend into The Great Rift Valley. On reaching Narok, the administrative centre for the district, we will eat our packed lunch. Reaching camp at Barakitabu at approximately 1500hrs, we will settle in before proceeding on a late afternoon walk across the plains. Return to camp for a hot shower, drinks around the camp fire before dinner. After dinner a chat around the campfire before retiring for the night to the sounds of the wind in the trees and the occasional animal noise. Overnight at Barakitabu.

Day 2
Awaken at 0700hrs, breakfast and set out for your mornings ride to Naikerra - a small trading centre, before returning for lunch at camp. A walk in the afternoon, visiting a traditional homestead, experience their hospitality and enjoying the sun setting across the horizon before returning to camp for dinner and overnight - Barakitabu.

Day 3
Breakfast completed our ride will take us across the plains with the morning sun on our backs and the wind in our hair; enjoy viewing the numerous varieties of flora and fauna that can be seen on the way. We will reach our camp at Sekenani in time for lunch and thereafter relax before setting out for an afternoons walk in the surrounding valleys and hills, where game can often be seen. Dinner and overnight at Sekenani.

Day 4
A full day game viewing in the Masai Mara Game Reserve where there are many varieties of big and small game; the area being famous for its black maned lions. Lunch with hippos and experience the wide open spaces as seen from your safari vehicle. Return to camp before nightfall, dinner and overnight at Olperr-Elongo camp Sekenani.

Day 5
Today’s bike ride will be on the plains in the morning, returning to camp for lunch and then following a different routing in the afternoon. Viewing of game on these rides is exciting though the game tends to keep their distance! Return to camp for dinner and overnight at Olperr-Elongo camp; Sekenani.

Day 6
After breakfast we drive to a small village due east, Migwara form where we will offload the bicycles to Ol Koroi [translated from Masai means the place of Colobus monkeys] with lunch en-route.
Dinner and overnight OlKoroi.

Day 7
After breakfast we will close camp and ride our bicycles to a small border post called Ol Posi Moru. After a short respite we will continue our ride heading to a project centre for the Loita area called Il Kirrin, with lunch en-route. The area is real savannah with great views stretching in all directions, there maybe an abundance of plains game depending on time of year. We will drive the remaining distance to our camp close to Morijo, arriving in time to settle in, shower and have dinner before retiring for the night.

Day 8Our days ride will take us in a southerly direction towards a small trading centre called Entesekera. Our ride will take us through very interesting terrain with varying landscapes leading to the base of the Nguruman mountains. Lunch en-route before returning to our camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 9 After breakfast we walk in the surrounding forests and plains enjoying all that this tremendously rich forest has to offer. There are many varieties of birds including Turaco, the Gureza Colobus Monkey and many trees and plants of cultural and medicinal use to the local Masai people. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight.

Day 10 After breakfast we will begin our ride back to Naikerra with lunch en-route; thereafter load the bicycles and begin our return journey back to Nairobi reaching the city at approximately 1630hrs. Arrangement ends.
Includes: Transport, Driver-Guide, sharing accommodation in shared tents, meals on safari and camp fees.

Excludes: Park fees; sleeping bag(for hire); tips; expenses of a personal nature; medical and evacuation insurance(available on request);
What to bring: Personal toiletries; towel; soap; longs for the cool of the evening; comfortable walking, cycling shoes; shorts and tee shirts; sunblock25; film; reading material; binoculars are recommended
* Minimum for guaranteed departure: 3 pax

WALKING IN Kenya's LOITA – Ref: BT 058
Duration : 6 days/ 5 nights

Day 1: Depart from a central pickup point, depart in a north westerly direction. On descending into the great rift valley you will see the dormant volcanoes of Longonot on your right and Suswa on your left. Lunch will be eaten in Narok, the administrative center for the area and arrival at Barakitabu camp should be around 1430hrs. Once settled into our accomodations, tea will be served in the mess and thereafter a walk onto the plains together with your guide. Enjoy the late afternoon lighting and sunset before returning to camp for a shower, drinks around the camp fire before dinner and finally retire for the night.

Day 2: After breakfast our mornings walk will take us into the hills behind our camp. Whilst walking your guide will point out the different trees, their medicinal and other uses. There are various species of antelope which maybe seen and many varieties of birds. Return to camp for lunch and after a rest, walk to your guide’s homestead and enjoy meeting his family, seeing their home and learning first hand about their culture. Return to camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: After breakfast our camp will be broken and our walk will take us across the savannah allowing us to enjoy the views, the flora and fauna. With lunch en-route we will be transported the last few kilometers to our main camp at Sekenani. Dinner and overnight at Olperr Elongo (name in Masai of a local flowering tree - Albizia gummifera).

Day 4: Todays activities will be in The Masai Mara Game Reserve, returning to camp for lunch and thereafter returning into the the park in the The masai_mara the late afternoon. The Mara is well known for its variety and numbers of game. The panoramic views and lighting on clear days makes for great photos. The area also boasts many varieties of birds. Return to camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Our day will be spent walking in the surrounding Siana hills, game viewing and enjoying the splendid views. Dinner and overnight at Olperr Elongo.

Day 6: An early morning walk before breakfast, thereafter pack and begin your return journey to Nairobi with lunch en-route you should arrive around 1600hrs, drop off at a central point. Arrangement ends.
Includes: transport; Driver-Guide; sharing accommodation in shared tents; meals on safari; camp fees.

Excludes: Park fees; sleeping bag (for hire); tips; expenses of a personal nature; medical and evacuation insurance(available on request);
What to bring: personal toiletries; towel; soap; longs for the cool of the evening; comfortable walking shoes; shorts and tee shirts; sunblock25; film; reading material; binoculars are recommended.
* Minimum for guaranteed departure: 3 pax

Loita Hills Trek – Ref: MA 059
Duration: 8 days safari / 5 days walking / 7 nights camping.
Fitness level: Easy to moderate
Price: 8 Days From US$1050 | 4WD and Walking Safari |
Departure dates: 2006: 11 July / 22 Aug / 16 Sept / 5 Oct / 12 Nov / 7 & 25 Dec

Game viewing in The Masai Mara Game Reserve and then walking safari with a team of Masai guides in their homeland progressing through a variety of fast changing landscapes, forest, plains and summits reaching 2400m. Rich cultural contact with the Masai on our journey up to the edge of the Rift Valley and then down onto the hot valley floor.
Walking up to 18 km per day with plenty of stops to appreciate the nature and surroundings and talk with the people. Donkeys carry equipment and luggage during walking safari. A small daypack with camera, sun cream and water bottle is all you are expected to carry.

Highlights:
• Masai Mara Game Reserve: endless game on endless plains
• Walking with masai guides in the Loita forest & Nguruman Escarpment
• Experience the untamed Rift Valley & its soda lakes Natron & Magadi

Itinerary

Days 1 and 2

THE MASAI MARA GAME RESERVE
We leave Nairobi and head towards the Ngong Hills that were made famous by Karen Blixen and her book "Out of Africa". The Ngong Hills tower over the edge of the Rift Valley, and our first vision of this magnificent fault in the earth's crust is certainly the most impressive. Several hundred metres below us the African savannah stretches into infinity, and within half an hours drive from Nairobi we plunge suddenly into Hemingway's Africa.
We make our way through Masai land to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Although these people of Nilotic origin were feared by the first explorers to the region, the proud warriors of today spend most of their time herding cattle in search of fresh pasturage. Masai Mara Game Reserve was established in 1961 and covers a surface of 1812 square km which is divided into 2 zones. The Masai are permittted to graze their cattle in the exterior section, but the interior park of 518 square km is reserved strictly for the fauna.

The Masai Mara is a succession of undulating plains and rivers lined with acacia trees, where we can observe an exceptionally rich variety of wildlife. Here we find the largest lion population in Kenya, but even More...ectacular is the enormous concentration of antelopes, zebras, and wildebest. During the migration period the number of animals can reach the millions. In 1982 when the last survey was taken, there were recorded to be 1,200,000 wildebeest, 700,000 zebra, 400,000 gazelle, and of course all the hyenas, lions, cheetah and other predators that follow these herds and hunt the More...eble. Game driving in the reserve.

Day 3

THE MASAI MARA - OLASUR
Leaving the game reserve on our last day in vehicles, we head for the Loita Hills. Even outside the park boundary the wildlife is abundant. The Masai are not hunters, as they don't appreciate the taste of game meat. So it's not unusual to pass a herd of Thompson's gazelle or wildebeest close to the Masai dwellings. At Olasur we meet our Masai guides.

Day 4 OLASUR - ENGARE NANYUKI
Leaving our vehicles we head into the hills on foot. The surrounding landscape is magnificent. The forest with green grassy clearings reminds us somehow of the English countryside. But not for long however, as we are brought back to reality and Africa by the sight of a Masai armed with his spear. Our day's walk takes us through the forest where we discover giant trees covered in moss and native orchids. We set up camp overlooking a stream where crested crane and sacred ibis search for insects amongst the long grass. We must beware of walking in the dark however as the nearby swamp is frequented by buffalo and elephant live in the surrounding forest.

Leaving our vehicles we head into the hills on foot. The surrounding landscape is magnificent. The forest with green grassy clearings reminds us somehow of the English countryside. But not for long however, as we are brought back to reality and Africa by the sight of a Masai armed with his spear. Our day's walk takes us through the forest where we discover giant trees covered in moss and native orchids. We set up camp overlooking a stream where crested crane and sacred ibis search for insects amongst the long grass. We must beware of walking in the dark however as the nearby swamp is frequented by buffalo and elephant live in the surrounding forest.

Days 5 ALASUR - TIAMANAGEN
We follow the edge of the Nguruman forest for 5 to 6 hours. There are many colobus monkeys with their long black and white fur coats, as well as Hartlaubs turaco. We pass many waterholes on our passage and with a bit of luck can catch a glimpse of some antelope or buffalo. We are now very close to the Tanzanian border and the forest has given way to open fields. There are many Masai villages in the area and we frequently meet with herdsmen and warriors. We have joined an important track that is used by the Masai to herd their cattle to the highlands for grazing during the dry season. And the Masai who live on the escarpment use the track to take their cattle down to Lakes Magadi and Natron for the salt and minerals. On this high open plateau we stroll easily whilst appreciating rock formations and the magnificent view of the Loliondo Hills in Tanzania. The surrounding hills are now much More...pulated. On our way we visit several Masai villages many colobus monkeys with their long black and white fur coats, as well as Hartlaubs turaco. We pass many waterholes on our passage and with a bit of luck can catch a glimpse of some antelope or buffalo.

We are now very close to the Tanzanian border and the forest has given way to open fields. There are many Masai villages in the area and we frequently meet with herdsmen and warriors. We have joined an important track that is used by the Masai to herd their cattle to the highlands for grazing during the dry season. And the Masai who live on the escarpment use the track to take their cattle down to Lakes Magadi and Natron for the salt and minerals. On this high open plateau we stroll easily whilst appreciating rock formations and the impressive view of the Loliondo Hills in Tanzania. The surrounding hills are now much More...pulated. On our way we visit several Masai villages. We set up our tents under the protection of huge granite boulders.

Day 6 TIAMANAGEN - OLDORO OIBOR
A short walking day takes us to the edge of the Rift Valley. The view is magnificent. Lakes Magadi and Natron lie 1000 metres below us and to the south the Gelai and Lengai volcanoes which are the sacred home of the Masai God "Ngei". And a few hundred kilometres to the north on the other side of the Rift Valley we can discern the Ngong Hills. We spend a leisurely afternoon feeling on top of the world.

Day 7 OLDORO OIBOR - PAKASI RIVER
Passing through Mima we descend the escarpment heading toward Lake Natron and into the Rift Valley. The path is sometimes a little difficult and the vegetation changes rapidly. Growing on the side of the mountain we find one of the most ancient plants of East Africa, the cycad "Encephalartos Bibalensis". And very soon we find ourselves in the open savanna at only 600 metres altitude. There is much More...me on the plains such as gazelle, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra.
Camping on the banks of the Pakasi River

Day 8 OLE SINIAYE - NATRON - NAIROBI
At Ole Siniaye the Pakasi River feeds an unexpected zone of agriculture before disappearing into swampland on the edge of Lake Natron. Here we find fields of millet and plantations of bananas and papayas. The Pakasi River has attracted various tribes of Bantu origin whose traditions lie in agriculture. Confronted by villages of round huts with thatched roofs we suddenly find ourselves in another part of Africa. The waters of the Pakasi river flow clear and rapidly.

Our departure from the luxurious paradise of the Pakasi River to enter the vast open plains of Natron is a brutal shock. To get to the massive rock "Shompole" on the edge of Lake Natron, we must cross a flat surface of 10 or so kilometres of clay and white soda. Our feet sink and slide on the spongy surface as we walk in the oppressive heat and the blinding reflection. Outline of acacias on the horizon hide the Uaso Nyiro River. Upon reaching it the More...ckless will throw themselves into its chocolatey waters whilst the others simply relish the shade of the acacia trees.

Lake Magadi and Natron were discovered by English geologist Gregory, and is certainly the most spectacular in the Rift Valley. An enormous pan of pink soda stretches into the horizon. Around the edge of the lake hot springs bubble from the ground at temperatures exceeding 50°. These springs produce microscopic aquatic life that feed a variety of local bird species, along with a number of migratory birds. A species of perch, "Tilapia Grahami" survive in these extreme conditions, reproducing in puddles of fresh water. Areas More...ncentrated in soda are favourable for the reproduction of an algae which flamingos feed upon. It's not unusual for the flocks to number in the hundreds of thousands.
Our vehicles are await us at the Uaso Nyiro River. Weather conditions permitting, access to the edge of Lakes allows us to approach the immense flocks of flamingo that nest in colonies here.

We return to Nairobi on a very good road arriving by the Ngong Hills. After our last vision of Hemmingways Africa we return to the hustle and bustle

Loita Hills Trek - Prices, Description & Dates
(Family departures suitable for children 12 years & above with walking experience)
Prices (USD) per person based on a minimum of three passengers for fixed departure dates:

High season Mid season Low season
$1235 $1132 $1081
High season = 8 July to 26 August / 20 Dec to 4 Jan //
Mid season = Feb / 1 to 7 July / Sept /October//
Low season = Jan, March, April, May, June, Sept, Nov and 1 to 15 Dec

Inclusive of :-
• Transport in 4WD Landcruiser or Landrover with roof hatches for game viewing.
• English speaking Masai Guide during the trek
• Full board except meals in Nairobi
• Treated drinking water
• All camping equipment including tables, chairs, cutlery & crockery, igloo-type tents, mattresses, wash bowls, bush toilet, safari shower (water permitting). Cook & drivers who assist with the camp
• First aid kit is available for use by group participants
Excluding :-
• National park entry & camping fees USD 80 & USD 40 for children (subject to change)
• Alcoholic drinks - we suggest that you bring a bottle of spirits to share for the evening sundowners.
• Sleeping bag, torch light & personal toiletries
• Tips & extras of a personal nature

DEPARTURE DATES:
2006: 8 Jan / 29 Jan / 10 March / 2 April / 22 June / 11 July / 1 & 22 Aug / 16 Sept / 5 Oct / 12 Nov / 7 & 24 Dec

Amboseli & Chyulu Trek – Ref : MA 060
Duration: 8 days Safari (Nairobi - Nairobi) / 6 nights camping / 3 days gentle walks/ 1 night in lodge / Fitness level: Easy & suitable for children 12 yrs & over.
Price: 8 Days From $1233 | 4WD and Walking Safari

A combination of game driving from vehicles & walking safari adventure to Masai land and the Chyulu Hills which offer the most spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Easy walking amongst wildlife within Masai territory and guided by Masai guides. Big game viewing in Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks from a vehicle

Highlights:
• Walking the Chyulu Hills, a volcanic mountain range teeming with wildlife
• Great views of Mt Kilimanjaro
• Close encounters with game from a vehicle in Tsavo West National Park & Amboseli National Park

Days 1 & 2 NAIROBI – AMBOSELI
Nairobi was established in 1896 with the construction of the Mombasa - Lake Victoria railway line. It was on this plateau at 1600 m. altitude that the Masai grazed their cattle along the small river called the 'Enairobi', which means in Maasai, 'cool' or 'cold'. Nairobi is now a modern city with a cool and healthy climate and a population of over one million. It's difficult to imagine that at the beginning of the century we could have come face to face with a lion or rhinoceros whilst walking down Moi Avenue.

We leave Nairobi and head south on the Mombasa Road
Amboseli is situated 250 kms from Nairobi, at the foot of the highest mountain in Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro (5.895 metres). It is mostly fairly dry with 160 mm falling in the rainy season (March through May) and 80 mm in the short rains (October to December). The western section of the park is an ancient lake bed which for most of the year is a dry, flat stretch but becomes flooded during the rainy season.

Visitors to Amboseli always wonder how such a dry country can support such a large concentration of wildlife. This underground water supply to the swampy regions provides the answer. Elephants stand waist deep in the water and hippos love the deep pooles. Today, Amboseli supports the widest variety of birds and wildlife in the country, so there is always plenty to see.
Camping in the park.

Day 3 AMBOSELI – MBIRIKANI GROUP RANCH
After an early morning game drive, we head towards through Masai country to the Chyulu Hills. It is a small chain of mountains 100km long and 7 km wide, that rise to a height of 2000m altitude towering dramatically over the plains. Recipient of a generous rainfall this conglomerate of small volcanic hills is estimated to have been formed only in the last few hundred years. Here is home to many ungulates such as eland, topi, hartebeest and impala. With the Kilimanjaro in the background we spend 2 days exploring first the plains below, and then the gentle slopes of these ancient caldera on foot. The eroded craters act as water basins where dense vegetation shelters elephants and buffaloes. This national park was created in 1993 and is an important water catchment area.

At the foot of these hills the Masai graze their cattle amongst the abundant wildlife. Before climbing into the hills we spend time walking the plains with our Masai guides, tracking the elephant which passed our camp during the night on their way to the waterhole, as well as spotting lion spore on the sandy track

Day 4 – 6 WALKING IN THE CHYULU HILLS (Tsavo National Park)
Once on top of the hills the vegetation changes dramatically as does the temperature that drops a few degrees. Here we walk peacefully over the rolling hills, climbing crater rims for dramatic views towards Kilimanjaro. The eland and other shy animals are surprised when we stalk up behind them. Human presence is uncommon in this region as even the Masai rarely graze their cattle here due to the lack of any watering holes. The top of the Chyulu are also part of the Tsavo National Park.
Camping.

Days 7 TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK
Tsavo West and Tsavo East National Parks combine to form one of the largest wildlife reserves in East Africa. We take advantage of our vehicles to explore these great expanses of biodiversity, open plains, bushy grasslands, mountains, lakes and forest. From our vehicles we can easily observe the wildlife, which are More... ease in the presence of a Toyota than a human on foot.

We visit Mzima Springs the famous clear waters that are filtered by the surrounding volcanic mountains and home to crocodiles and hippopotamus. The water is crystal clear but swimming is strictly forbidden! From an underwater viewing tank we can observe the hippos paddling through the water. Night in a lodge in Tsavo National Park

Days 8 TSAVO WEST / NAIROBI
After half a day game viewing in Tsavo West we make our way back to Nairobi along the main
Amboseli & Chyulu Trek - Prices, Description & Dates.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = DinnerPrices (USD) per person based on a minimum of 3 passengers for fixed departure dates:

High season Mid season Low season
$1410 $1292 $1233
High season = 8 July to 26 August / 20 Dec to 4 Jan //
Mid season = Feb / 1 to 7 July / Sept /October//
Low season = Jan, March, April, May, June, Sep, Nov and 1 to 15 Dec

Inclusive of: -
• Transport in 4WD Landcruiser or Landrover with roof hatches for game viewing.
• Return flight to Nairobi
• Experienced local guide + Park Ranger/guides for walks
• Full board except meals in Nairobi. Treated drinking water
• All camping equipment including tables, chairs, cutlery & crockery, igloo-type tents, mattress, wash bowls, bush toilet, shower (water supply permitting). Cook & drivers who assist with the camp
• First aid kit is available for use by group participants
Excluding: -
• National park entry & camping fees (approx. USD 200 per adult, a USD 30 rise is expected on the 1st if July 2006)
• Alcoholic drinks - we suggest that you bring a bottle of spirits to pool for the evening sundowners.
• Sleeping bag, small torch light & personal toiletries
• Tips for cook & drivers
Departure dates from Nairobi:
2006: 10 Jan / 1 Feb / 8 March / 6 April / 22 June / 11 July / 22 Aug / 16 Sept / 5 Oct / 7 & 25 Dec
*Special interest & private groups welcome.

Mount Kilimanjaro & Masai Trek – Ref : MA 061
Duration : 13 Days 12 nights
Cost is from US$ 2,036 | 4WD and Walking Safari

Duration: 13 days with gentle walks - Fitness level: Easy to moderate and covers waking in Kenya and Tanzania.
Departure dates: 2006: 10 Jan / 1 Feb / 8 March / 22 June / 11 July / 22 Aug / 16 Sept / 4 Oct / 7 Dec

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro by a less frequented route (Rongai route) and then continue on an adventurous walking safari.
Highlights:
• Kilimanjaro Trek / Rongai crossover
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Descend the Canyons of Gol Mountains
• Masai Encounter
Walk the Salei Plains

Day 1 Nairobi - Loitokitok
Transfer to Loitokitok at base of Mount Kilimanjaro. We cross the Serengeti plains where we see many animals grazing alongside the Masai cattle. Giraffe, zebra, and gazelle come to drink from the water pipeline that crosses this hot dry plain. Customs clearance in Kenya and transfer to Tanzania customs (Rongai). After immigration formalities transfer to cottages where we spend the night.

Day 2 Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - FIRST CAVE (2800 m)
After breakfast we walk to the starting point where the guides and porters will be waiting (2100 m). At about 10.30 am the climb starts through natural rain forest where Colobus monkeys can be seen. After about 4 hours walk and a lunch break on the way we reach the tree line and the First Cave where we spend the night in tents. (2800 m)

Day 3 Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - SECOND CAVE (3300 m)
Starting after breakfast we walk through the moorland to the Kikelewa caves at 3600m. Lunch break at Second Cave (3300 m). The climb takes about 6 hours. Overnight in tents.

Day 4 Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - MAWENZI TARN HUT
After a good rest and a heavy breakfast we proceed to the Mawenzi Tarn hut (4330 m) with a lunch break on the way. The night is spent in tents, as the hut is rather small. The climbers enjoy great views towards Kibo, the final target.

Day 5 Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - SCHOOL HUT
The journey continues after breakfast crossing the saddle to School hut (4750m). Lunch on the way and the walk takes us about 6 hours. Night in hut or tents.

Day 6 Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - GILLMANS POINT / UHURU PEAK
After a short night and a hot drink the final ascent starts at about 1.30 am. The path leads through gradually steeper scree to Gillman’s Point (5685m) where we can watch the sunrise and gaze over the magnificent ice fields. After a short break we proceed along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5896 m) and reach there about 9 am. By 12.00 noon we are back at Kibo Hut where we take a light lunch before walking down for another 3 hours to Horombo (3720m). Night in tents.

Day 7 Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - MARANGU & TRANSFER ARUSHA
From Horombo we descend the final leg to the park gate at Marangu (1800 m). Here we are met by our vehicles and transferred to Arusha to spend the night at the Impala Hotel.

Day 8 NGORONGORO CRATER
After stocking up with fresh supplies from Arusha we head across the Rift Valley and up into the highlands of Ngorongoro. Ngorongoro Conservation Area was created with a separate entity from the Serengeti to protect the Masai herdsmen. The Masai had in fact found themselves thrown out of their traditional pasturelands. It was decided that to protect the ancestral rights of the Masai they should be given the right to graze their cattle in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area but not in the Serengeti. This compromise seems to be a success as we are able to observe an enormous variety of wildlife against the backdrop of some spectacular landscapes. The amateur photographer will appreciate the contrast of the cloud charged skies, the brilliant golden sunlight illuminating the vegetation on the crater floor, and the white soda lake where pink flamingos search for food. Night in lodge.

Day 9 OLDUVAI GORGE & SERENGETI PLAINS
Early morning descent into the crater for game drive. Afternoon visit to Olduvai Museum and then overnight camping on Serengeti plains. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is not only an animal reserve but also a very important location for research into the roots of mankind. At Olduvai and Laetoli, Louis Leakey discovered several Australopithecus as well as footprints that date back 3.5 million years. Serengeti National Park is one of the largest animal reserves in Africa and covers an area of 14500 km². During the annual migration we can observe immense herds of several hundred thousand animals. The last aerial census counted 1.2 million wildebeest, 700 000 zebra, 400 000 gazelle, and of course all the predators that follow and hunt the feebler of the animals. Over 2 million animals follow the rhythm of the seasons.

Days 10 and 11 TREKKING IN Masai TERRITORY. THE GOL MOUNTAINS TO LAKE NATRON.
On a small unused track we head towards the Gol Mountains in the heart of Masailand. Once these people of Nilotic origins frightened even the bravest explorers, but today these warriors live a peaceful existence principally caring for their enormous herds of cattle. We meet them grazing their herds, and perched on the top of the highest granite rock they keep guard over the plains for any lion or other possible threat to their cattle. Accompanied by our Masai guide, with lunch and water for the day’s journey, we set off to cross this small chain of mountains. The large valleys that cut through the mountains are gathering points of a multitude of wildlife, especially after the rains. Even large predators are attracted during February and March when the young wildebeest are born. The peaceful cohabitation between Masai and wildlife is astonishing and it’s not unusual to find herds of zebra, wildebeest, giraffe and cattle grazing together. There are many Masai villages and we frequently meet with the warrior herdsmen. We follow an important track that is used by the Masai from Lake Natron during the dry season when they herd their cattle up onto the highlands for grazing. And in turn the Masai from the highlands herd their cattle down onto the salt plains of Natron. We stroll easily on this high plateau and appreciate the rock formations and views of the mountains. Our vehicles meet us at our camp in the evening. Incessant meetings with the friendly Masai slow our progression but we have only 10 kms to cover this day. From our camp on the edge of the escarpment the view is spectacular. Below in the Rift Valley the volcanoes of Lengai and Gelai rise up from the pink shallow waters of Lake Natron. We descend the steep escarpment towards Lake Natron on a rough path where the vegetation changes rapidly.

Day 12 NATRON TO LONGIDO
Even for the Masai of Natron the environment is inhospitable and tough. Deep down on the floor of the Rift Valley, the giant fault that cuts its way across the African continent, the world continues to evolve. The active volcano ‘Lengai’ is a sacred mountain for the Masai. Lengai means God in Maa language and on the summit, protected from the vapour and heat of the volcano, resides 'Ngai'. Several other volcanoes rise from the plains and Gelai dominates at some 3000 metres over Lake Natron. We are happy to meet with our vehicles in this intense heat. This lake was discovered by English geologist Gregory and is certainly the most spectacular in the Rift Valley. An enormous pan of pink soda stretches for kilometres into the horizon. Around the edge of the lake hot springs bubble from the ground at temperatures exceeding 50°C. These springs produce microscopic aquatic life that feeds a variety of local bird species, along with a number of migratory birds. A species of perch, "Tilapia Grahami" manages to survive in these extreme conditions. Areas More...ncentrated in soda are favourable for the reproduction of algae which flamingos feed upon. It's not unusual for the flamingos to number into the hundreds of thousands. We start our climb at 1am to reach the summit of Lengai at 2800 metres above sea level. The climb is a steep one that we attempt in the moonlight, so that we can reach the summit for the sunrise over Kilimanjaro 200 km away. From the jagged crater rim we have a spectacular view over Natron and the surrounding volcanoes and escarpment. We follow our guide carefully down into the caldera where the volcano is active and lava flows regularly from small eruptive cones. We make a weary descent back to our vehicles and after some brunch to regain our energy head cross the Rift Valley towards Longido. Lengai is one of the most difficult mountains to climb in the area, not because of the technical difficulty but due to the steepness, hot climate and loose volcanic gravel.

Day 13 NAIROBI
Passing by Mt Gelai and Longido we meet the tarmac road near Namanga. After formalities to cross the border are completed we head to Nairobi passing by the Ngong Hills. A last glance over the Rift Valley and we find ourselves once again amongst the hustle and bustle of city life.

Drop off at your Nairobi hotels.

Prices (USD) per person based on a minimum of 3 passengers for fixed departure dates:
High season Mid season Low season
$2327 $2133 $2036
High season = 8 July to 26 August / 20 Dec to 4 Jan //
Mid season = Feb, July and Oct
Low season = Jan, March, April, May, June, Sep, Nov and 1 to 15 Dec
Single room supplement $225
Inclusive of:-
• Transport in 4WD Landcruiser or Landrover equipped with roof hatches for game viewing.
• Experienced guide for Masai Trek & Kilimanjaro climb
• Full board except meals in Nairobi. Treated drinking water
• All camping equipment including tables, chairs, cutlery & crockery, igloo-type tents, mattresses, wash bowls, bush toilet, and bush shower (water permitting). Cook & drivers who assist with the camp
• 8 kgs maximum luggage on Kilimanjaro climb in separate bag. (safari luggage will meet you at Arusha hotel)
Exclusive of:-
• National park entry & camping fees (approx. USD 705) per pax
• Alcoholic drinks - we suggest that you bring a bottle of spirits to share for the evening sundowners.
• Sleeping bag, small torch light & personal toiletries
• Tips for porters & drivers & visa fees
Departure dates from Nairobi:
2006: 10 Jan / 1 Feb / 8 March / 22 June / 11 July / 22 Aug / 16 Sept / 4 Oct

*See other relevant general information on Kenya tour.

Nairobi hotels

Mombasa Kenya

Safaris in Kenya.

List of budget camping safaris in Kenya

Africa safaris.

Accommodation in Kenya