If you’re looking for a unique honeymoon or don’t mind spending a substantial amount of money for something “extra special”, then you’ll most definitely enjoy what I’m about to unveil here! And even for those of you who don’t feel concerned by what I just said, remember it is never forbidden to DREAM! Besides, dreams do come true (if you firmly believe in them, no matter what)! So keep dreaming, and make sure you reach some of them…  ;).

Campi ya Kanzi

The camp of the hidden treasure!

Located in Kenya’s prime game area between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks (Chyulu Hills), the camp provides a luxury tented experience for your exclusive private safari.

Highlights of Your Stay:

- Maasai-led walking safaris.

- Tembo house balcony overlooking the plains & Mt. Kilimanjaro!

- Conservation and ecotourism. Help the Maasai in preserving their wildlife and cultural heritage.

Visit: http://www.maasai.com/

Galdessa

Tsavo East National Park, Kenya.

Set on the southern banks of the Galana river, Galdessa Main Camp is partially concealed in a grove of doum palm trees.

Particularities:

- Splendid deck overlooking the river. Relax and enjoy the plentiful wildlife coming down for a late afternoon drink!

- Thatched and semi-tented bungalows with private veranda and en-suite bathroom.

- Activities include open vehicle game drives, walking safaris and bush breakfast/sundowner by the river.

Website: http://www.galdessa.com/

OL Donyo Wuas

Amboseli region, south-east Kenya.

20 bed luxury lodge set in a 275,000 acres of beautiful wild Africa! “Richard Bonham could well be the father of the bush guest house. He built Ol Donyo Wuas many years ago and it still sets the standard.” – John Hemingway, well-known writer about Africa.

What to Expect from Your Visit:

- “Tourist mini-bus-free” big 5 game area overlooking the spectacular Mt. Kilimanjaro.

- Private villa experience & lodge totally refurbished in 2008.

- All-inclusive tariff & largest array of activities in all of Africa. They include game drives, night drives, walks, horse safaris, mountain biking safaris, etc.

Find Them @: http://www.oldonyowuas.com/

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania.

On the rim of the world-renowned “Heritage Site”, the Crater Lodge is architecturally one of the most unique and prestigious safari lodges in Africa. In fact, it is often considered as the “African Versailles”. A pure jewel!

Originality:

- Maasai mud-and-stick manyatta (homestead) style!

- Colonial style interior: silver, gold and ruby colours!

- Spectacular scenic view over the crater from above 2000 m.

Karibu Ngorongoro Crater Lodge: http://www.craterlodge.com/

Sand Rivers Selous

Selous, Tanzania.

The Sand Rivers Selous Lodge is part of the Selous Game Reserve ecosystem, Africa’s largest unspoilt gem! A must visit in one of the country’s reserves I love the most!

Why Go There?

- The lodge is along the Rufiji river bed, a stunning location on its own!

- Impeccable hosting, rare cottages (two sumptuous suites), and the perfect honeymoon nest known as the Rhino House!

- Activities to die for: the best boat cruises, walks, fly-camping, game drives, etc!

Hippo Point Private Estate & Wildlife Sanctuary

Lake Naivasha, Kenya.

Private luxury home in Kenya’s Rift Valley!

What to Expect from Hippo Point?

- 1930′s Elizabethan house completely restored in 1998.

- An ornithological paradise with over 520 recorded bird species in the Naivasha area + wild animals such as buffalo, giraffe and zebra wandering about the lush lawns.

- Health program, day safaris, walks and birdwatching.

Borana Lodge

Samangua Valley, Kenya.

Kenyan ranch set in the Laikipia region of Mount Kenya! Its name comes from the “Boran” cattle, a local breed raised to resist droughts and pests.

Interests:

- Rich wildlife, including over 3000 elephants and big cats like the lion, cheetah and leopard.

- Visit the ranch, and learn about the major difficulties faced by the owners as there is constant conflict between livestock and carnivores.

- Stay in the Laragai House, the private home of George and Lucilla Stephensen.

Home Page: http://www.borana.co.ke/

Richard’s Camp

Masai Mara, Kenya. Small, private & exclusive!

Experience Real Africa in one of the continent’s most remarkable and animal-rich of national parks: the Masai Mara!

Attractions:

- Individually decorated tents with en-suite bathroom & clean, solar system power.

- Escorted bush walks, day/night game drives, sundowners, picnic lunches & even balloon safaris (at an extra cost).

- Exquisite meals under starlit Kenyan skies!

Ready for It? Visit http://www.richardscamp.com/

Loisaba

Laikipia, Kenya.

“Revive your mind, rejuvenate your body and revitalise your soul!”

About Loisaba:

- The Cottage: Fully self contained luxury accommodation with own guide and custom game drive vehicle.

- The House: Exclusive, self-contained private house built on the edge of the escarpment.

- The Main Lodge: Spa, various activities (game drives, rafting, camel safaris, horse riding, walking…) & unique star beds (watch below)!

Klein’s Camp

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.

“This private and remote camp offers guests the spirit of wild Africa – wooded hillsides, rolling grasslands and forested river banks all teeming with the rich wildlife of this natural sanctuary lie sprawled at your feet.”

Why Klein’s Camp?

- Awe-inspiring view of the Serengeti plains from the edge of the Kuka Hills.

- One of the only areas in the Serengeti where you can do night drives!

- In the path of the annual Great Wildebeest Migration.

Considered one of Kenya’s premiere wildlife preserves, the famous Masai Mara covers an area of roughly 575 square miles. The area is also famous for its annual migration of two million herbivores referred to as the Great Migration. It is definitely a great destination for any Kenya safari. The reserve is a mosaic of all kinds of terrain. There is acacia woodland, long rolling grassland, bush covered hills and forest. All of which is home to all sorts of African wild life. Lake Victoria is less than a day’s journey away and is a recommended must see.

If you can spend your safari holidays in Masai Mara during the Great Migration then you will have the rare opportunity to see more than two million wildebeests and thousands and thousands of zebra, Impala and Thomson’s gazelles not to mention antelope; Topi and Coke’s hartebeest. That is a sight to behold for sure. It would be something to remember for a lifetime.

You can in fact also see the Roan antelope and bat eared fox rarely seen anywhere else in Kenya. In all of Kenya this park is one of the best places to view big game of all types. You can see hippopotami, black rhinoceros, cheetah, spotted hyena, giraffes and of course the famous lion prides of which there are well over 20.  All the big five can be found here!

Crossing the Mara River!

In addition to the big game Masai Mara is also home to more than 450 species of birds. For the bird lover this Africa safari is sure to astound and impress. There are all sorts of land birds and water fowl to be seen all over the park in the many different types of terrain. You will see vultures, hornbills, cranes, ostrich, long crested eagles, African pygmy falcons and Marabou storks. You can also see in the park the famous, interesting and spectacularly beautiful secretary bird. The latter is a very agile hunter, and feeds on snakes of all shapes and sizes!

Sneaking around for some snakes!

There is much to see in Masai Mara and time spent there could certainly be the highpoint of any travel safari. With the great migration, big game viewing opportunities and amazing bird life to be seen, this African getaway will certainly be a memorable one. It is easy to see why Kenya is called the land of the safari when you visit the park. This is true African wild life in its natural habitat roaming free and living life for the whole world to see and witness!

Kenya is a fabulous destination for safari holidays and of the many great places to go is Amboseli. Located south of Nairobi, the region is small at 151 square miles but because of its swamp terrain is a magnet to all manner of African wild life. It also is home to Observation hill where you will get the most stunning views of Mt Kilimanjaro in all of East Africa. The area is famous for these views as well as for its big game. Right in the middle of the National Park is a dry lake basin that is an attraction to all kinds of animals.

Typical Amboseli Scene (Creative Commons Image)!

Amboseli with its spectacular views and landscape is home to some of Africa’s most revered animal selections. If you are looking for a safari that has all the big ones, this is the place to go! Throughout the park you will find Grant and Thompson’s gazelles (the latter is one of Mr. cheetah’s favourite meals), leaping about in wild abandon. There will be herds of elephant and buffalo. You will see warthogs, wildebeest and Coke’s hartebeest. Also indigenous of the area are more wild inhabitants of Kenya like baboons, giraffe and zebra. And that’s not all either! The park is home to some of the more famous African cats like the leopard, cheetah and lion. Look around and you will also see hyenas and jackals. It’s a potpourri of African wildlife!

Thompson's gazelle (GNU Free Licence)!

It’s not just about wildlife on the ground because in Amboseli you will find an abundance of bird life as well. Near to the swamps and seasonal lakes are many varieties of water fowl as well as land birds. It’s a bird lover’s paradise! And, of course all manner of flora and fauna can be found throughout the confines of the park. For instance, you will find phoenix palms and yellow barked acacias through the park.

Than landscape of Amboseli National Park in and of itself is something to see. All that wild life, bird life, and fauna and flora are interspersed amongst fragile grasslands, swamps, acacia woodland, and plains. There are even a number of interesting volcanic hills located in the southern area of the park. This is truly a great location for your next travel safari. It is indeed one of the best National Parks you will find in Kenya and you will see and do things that will make for lasting memories. Spending your safari holidays here will not disappoint. There is a little something for everyone!

Tsavo Scenery

The combination of east and west Tsavo national parks makes up one of the largest game sanctuaries not just in Africa or Kenya but in the world! The eastern section dominated by the Yatta plateau is known for its large areas of flat thorn bush. The western portion however is known to be more scenic, sporting volcanic mountains and hills with large outcroppings providing spectacular views. The combined park spans 80,382 square miles and altitudes range from as low as 230 meters to as high as 2000 meters. These contrasts are one of the things that make the region unique.

Overlooking the park (GNU Free Licence)!

Man-Eaters?

There were some very famous lion attacks at Tsavo of which has made the area famous. It was said that the lions of the area acquired a taste for human flesh during the time of the slave trade when bodies were left in the forest, and legend says that was responsible for the infamous Tsavo man-eaters. Like a lot of the local stories in Africa, this is more fiction than fact and you don’t have to worry about being a lion’s next meal. Your safari holidays in the area will be lion attack free lol! However, you may be lucky enough to see some of these magnificent creatures during your visit to the preserve.

Man-Eaters? I don't think so...

Walking around Mzima Springs

You may also walk around the western portion of Tsavo national park where you will be privy not just to wildlife but to the famous Mzima Springs (the word Mzima means “alive”), where millions of gallons of crystal clear water flows out of volcanic porous rocks. You can expect to see sightings of wild life going down to the water to get a drink from time to time, and can even enjoy an underwater experience. There is an underwater observation tank that allows a look into the water dwellers of the area. This is a truly unique experience that you won’t see elsewhere in Kenya. There are many species of fish you will be able to see in their natural habitat, alongside “walking” hippos (they have a very stylish way of swimming) and occasional crocodiles.

Mzima Springs (GNU Free Licence)!

For an experience in one of the largest preserves in the world, spending your Africa safari in this amazing national park can be (and will be) somewhat unforgettable. There is something for everyone, and the history, lushness of landscape and amazing wild life will keep you engaged for your entire trip. It is a great time for absolutely anyone (guaranteed)!

For what the Samburu region of Kenya lacks in size it certainly makes up in spectacular scenery. This is one of the most scenic areas of Kenya and it should be a definite consideration for a visit as a part of your Africa safari. It is home to some of the most unique wild life in Africa and for that reason attracts a lot of interest from visitors from throughout the world as well as Africa. The area is renowned for its year round game viewing due to its proximity to the shaded banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River.

Are you a crocodile fan perhaps? Then make sure you spend a night at Samburu Lodge, and get live action every evening when the beasts come out of the river to feed on dead chickens thrown by the lodge personnel. Quite a unique experience, especially when you consider the very slim 2 foot wall that separates us from them! Can you sense the noise of crushed bones as the crocs devour their little snack?! It’s still giving me the chills as I think about it!

Animals of Interest

Samburu is relatively undiscovered and as such can be a unique travel safari experience. As mentioned before some of the most unique animals can be found in this Kenyan region. Rarities such as the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, and Beisa Oryx all make their home in the area. All these animals are worth seeing and cannot be seen in other areas of Africa or Kenya. Making this region part of your safari can really add excitement to your holiday. You can also find leopards in the rocky hillside of the area. One of the other attractions that cannot be forgotten is the sight of elephants bathing in the Ewaso Nyiro River. There are usually huge batches of elephants to be seen here!

The most elegant reticulated giraffe!

Giraffe or Antelope? It's the gerenuk!

Scenery

The landscape of Samburu is amazingly severe and scenic for such a small area due to the richness of different land characteristics. The diversity and beauty of the landscape is certainly one of the things that set apart the area from other parts of Kenya. You can expect to see not only the river but deep gorges and waterfalls. There are lots of hills and plains and also some water springs to enjoy. There are also big and small swamps that attract a plethora of different wildlife.

Enjoying the view!

The smallness of Samburu only relates to the physical size of this Kenyan retreat. The richness of wildlife and landscape are in no way small and can provide vistas of landscape beauty as well as the beauty of wild life living in their natural habitat. A safari in this region is an Africa safari you wouldn’t soon forget. The rare animals and the sheer beauty of the land bolstered by the year round comfort are what attract people to this different and special African refuge. It is definitely a special experience. Go for it!

If you are going to visit Kenya you absolutely have to make sure and set aside time for Nakuru, Naivasha and Nairobi National Parks. Although these areas are urban by African standards, they are a must see for visitors to Kenya. Each place has a unique perspective to give modern African living. You can get a good mix of the urban with the allure of safari elements like being able to see a real animal preserve without venturing too far out into the bush or the jungle. In fact, you will get so many perspectives on Africa in these Kenyan regions that you will go home with a really good knowledge of the rest of the continent.

Nairobi National Park

Nakuru, Naivasha and Nairobi National Parks all have their own charm. For instance at the Nairobi National Park you will feel like you are on an actual safari far out and away from the city when in fact you are minutes from an urban capital city. It is a truly fabulous dichotomy to take in. One hour you can be enjoying and African cosmopolitan moment and the next you can be viewing big game. You can be meeting the locals in the city at coffee shops and meeting the locals out in the plains of the park. The only difference is the ones in the parks will have paws and claws lol!

The Two Sides of Nairobi (GNU Free Licence)!

Lake Nakuru

Visiting Nakuru, Naivasha and Nairobi National Parks will give you a very diverse view of Kenya without having to travel far from any of the cities. Nakuru is a bird watchers paradise and of the three areas is indeed the place to see your favorite exotic African feathered friends. There are over 450 species of birds including flamingos. You can expect to see just about every terrestrial and water bird Africa has to offer. You can also see 56 different types of animals including rhinos.

Splendid view, isn't it?!

Lake Naivasha

Nakuru, Naivasha and Nairobi National Parks offer a plethora of safari opportunities not seen in other areas of Africa. Being able to take everything in such a small area is truly a luxury, and being able to take your own refuge in an urban setting after a day of safari can be a very relaxing and interesting experience. Let’s not forget to describe Naivasha. If you are really into exotic flora and fauna then this will be your favorite of the three areas that is for sure! The wildlife is stunning (especially for hippos, giraffe, buffalo and colobus monkeys), and here too there are well over 400 avian species! An unforgettable holiday destination for bird lovers, hikers (in some areas you can literally walk surrounded by wild animals) and boat trippers!

Waterbucks enjoying a refreshing bath (Creative Commons Image)!

Provided below are a few things to consider before enjoying the time of your life

1. What are you looking for?

What is it that you are truly looking for? Are you more of an animal freak (just like me) or a bird enthusiast? What would the purpose of your holiday be? To discover what mother nature has to offer, to relax around the pool, or to benefit from a magnificent sun downer cruise on Lake Kariba? Perhaps a combination of all of the above would suit you best…? Pick your wants, be specific…there are plenty of specialist safaris out there!

Once you’re clear on what your desires are, you can then choose the right destination! This is absolutely essential! Indeed, various locations will have different facilities and distinct things to offer! Some will not necessarily be in a rich wildlife area but might have other advantages like a stunning location, exciting activities, walking trails, etc… .

In other words, do your homework, pick up your bags and jump on a plane

2. Where to go

Africa is a huge continent with an unlimited amount of choice destination wise. While it is true that Western Africa has quite a few options available, the area I know best is concentrated in Eastern and Southern Africa, and is renowned for its abundant wildlife. It is an extraordinary heaven for outdoors adventure – perhaps THE best on Earth!

Here are some of the countries that I definitely recommend if you are in love with the bush:

- Tanzania.

- Kenya.

- South Africa.

- Zimbabwe.

- Zambia.

- Botswana.

- Namibia.

- Uganda.

My top 3: Tanzania in first, followed closely by Kenya and South Africa.

3. When to go

The best time of the year for safaris occurs during the dry season months. Indeed, in the rainy season water and food are plentiful. Animals tend to be more dispersed throughout the parks/game reserves. Also, grass is much longer in some areas, making it more difficult to spot them. In comparison, in the dry season permanent water holes attract a vast abundance of wildlife!

For East African countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, ideal times for game viewing include the periods of December to March, and from June to late September/early October. It is during the latest months of the year that one can experience the Great Annual Wildebeest Migration, where almost two million animals gather and move together across the plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara National Parks! I’ve had the chance to watch it…it’s a once in a lifetime experience…absolutely breathtaking!

In Southern Africa, winter months from May to August, and hot spring months in September and October are most suitable! Temperatures are usually mild during the day, while a little cooler on early mornings and in the late afternoon.

4. Visa/Vaccinations

Most countries require a single-entry visa. I know that in Kenya it costs about $50. So make sure you visit local embassies, and please do a little research before leaving your country.

As far as vaccinations are concerned, requirements vary from country to country. If I were you I’d ask a doctor for adequate information. Here’s a list of some of the inoculations that are highly recommended:

• Yellow fever
• Diphtheria
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A

Last thing: make sure you ALWAYS have your medical insurance policy to cover possible (yet very unlikely ) emergencies!

5. What to Take With You

I don’t know about you, but I just LOVE packing up for travel

Here’s my ‘take away’ list:

- A suitcase (ha ha very funny Michael).

- Your passport and certificate of vaccination (oops…almost forgot the plane tickets).

- A hat (a Rogue safari hat for the ultimate safari freak ), sunscreen lotion and a pair of sunglasses.

- Mosquito repellent (very important). In some cases, you may be required to take prescription medicine to prevent malaria (i.e. Malarone or Lariam).

- Good binoculars to spot the animals (I recommend 10*50 for best viewing).

- A camera of course (100-300 mm lens ideally; 35 mm for portraits, landscapes, etc.).

- A few jerseys (yes, even in Africa…early mornings and late evenings can be chilly, especially in Southern Africa).

- A torch to prevent lucky/unlucky encounters at night (or for pee emergencies lol).

- Books and Travel Guides. My personal favourites: Signs of the Wild by Clive Walker, The Safari Companion by Richard D. Estes, and Birds of Southern Africa by Sinclair, Hockey and Tarboton.

- A Swiss Army Knife (be careful not to carry it in your hand luggage). It can be very handy in the bush, as a bottle opener or to cut things (Mike…that’s what knives are made for).

VERY IMPORTANT: Oh yes, don’t forget your “eagle eyes” to spot what mother nature has to unveil to you, and your good mood as always ! And remember to stay silent…you may annoy or scare the animals away!

6. Choosing your Activities

Lodges/camps habitually have three main activities: game drives, walks and night drives (not everywhere though). Some may also propose sun downer cruises! Drives are 2-3 hours long (depending on the formula)! Early mornings and late afternoons are best as it is cooler, thus providing better conditions for optimal game viewing. Otherwise, animals tend to rest under a tree or hide in the thickets, away from the scorching sun! A good nap is usually the plan during that part of the day…or perhaps a plunge in the swimming pool?! Up to you really…

• Game drives:

Around Moremi Camp

In open jeeps or mini buses with a guide or ranger. Be willing to wake up bright early (around 5:30 am) and make sure you wear a jersey or a blanket!

My personal favourite is the night drive formula, where you get to see nocturnal animals such as the elusive leopard, African genets and civets, laughing hyenas, porcupines and way more!!! It’s really a cool experience, especially when they let you use the spotlight to scan through the night, looking for every sign or movement: a shiny eye, an unusual noise…detective work at its best!

• Walks:

On the Look-Out for Wild Animals

Also very interesting. An armed guide walks you through the bush to experience another side of nature. Here you get to learn about animal tracks, droppings, and both the fauna and flora (especially trees and their values) of the African savanna. While the wildlife experience might not be as productive in terms of animal sightings (they tend to run away as soon as they see you), the learning experience and birding side of things make it totally worth it! It just has to be done at least once in your life .

• Sun downer/Boat cruises:

Any Crocs?

Truly amazing for close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, or to have the opportunity to view animals that come down by the river to drink. Amazing photo shots to be taken, specifically with the rich aquatic bird life that thrives around the riverine area!

7. Tell your Guide what you’re Looking For

In most instances, professional guides will ask you what your main interests are before taking you on a drive or walk! If not make sure you tell them what you’re dying to find! Whether you’re going for The Big 5, a specific animal or bird species…they’ll be more than happy to fulfill your desires!

However, notice that national parks are not zoos – in other words, you never know in advance what you’re going to see! In my opinion, it’s the exciting part of safaris! Some days are prolific, while others are more disappointing! But often it is when you least expect it that you’re rewarded the most! Never get discouraged! Have faith and odds will eventually turn in your favour!

8. Where to Look for Animals

While there are no definite locations for specific animals, it is possible nevertheless to associate them with specific biomes. For instance grazers live in grasslands, browsers in Miombo woodlands and predators in open savannas. If you’re searching for kudu, you’re very unlikely going to find them in open regions. This type of antelope is principally found in bushy areas where food (mainly leaves) is plentiful for them. Similarly, giraffes love acacia territory, and leopards are more likely to be seen up in a tree or in rocky areas (koppies).

Got the idea? Wonderful

Hope you enjoyed my post! Feel free to leave comments and suggestions! The more feedback I get, the more I can satisfy your needs!

Take care and thanks for stopping by,

Michael