 Kenya, Uganda, (Rwanda), Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia
Download and print the relevant pages for this safari from our brochure (PDF)
|
 |
KENYA
Our first day's journey along the East African Rift Valley brings us to Lake Naivasha. During the day hippo wallow in the lake and at night graze by the shores where we camp. From here we travel further out to our next freshwater lake, Baringo, home to crocodile, hippo and much bird life where we can watch fish eagles being hand fed. Here we can meet local tribes people, the Pokot and Ngempe fisher people.
Alternatively we head north to camp at the foot of Mount Kenya before travelling through to Samburu National Park, with the opportunity to visit a traditional Samburu tribe in the region as well. In this beautiful park we might also spot lion, cheetah and leopard, as well as hippos, buffalos, gerenuk and elephants.
Arriving in Eldoret we have a night at Raj's zany bar, before reaching Jinja, the source of the White Nile, in Uganda, to camp beside the scenic Bujagali Falls.
UGANDA
Our first highlight upon reaching Uganda is to view the antics of the chimps at Ngamba Island chimp sanctuary. Chimpanzee are the primate genetically most similar to humans, their behaviour being highly social, remarkably like ours. Heading west we reach the forested volcanic slopes of the Virungas, home to the 700 remaining mountain gorillas. The gorillas live in groups lead by a dominant male, the silverback, and spend their days foraging for food. Gorilla trekking is a once in a lifetime experience, allowing you to come face to face with another very close relative. Treks are organised ahead of time in Rwanda and Uganda, so you are assured that a permit is waiting for you.
We return to Lake Bunyoni to celebrate our trek. Here we might spot a crested crane, the national emblem, or an otter and can enjoy swimming and taking traditional canoes across the lake.
On the months when the world famous migration is in the Serengeti we now visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game cruise and game drives in spectacular scenery before returning for the excitement of white water rafting on the equatorial White Nile and quad biking. There is also time to help out in a local school.
Dropping back into Kenya we stay over at an upcountry farm, Kembu, before entering Lake Nakuru National Park for morning and afternoon game drives. The soda lake is home to black and white rhino, lion, giraffe, hippo as well as thousands of greater and lesser flamingo. If we are fortunate we might spy a leopard lounging in a tree, perhaps with a kill!
On months when the migration has arrived we now head out to Kenya's most famous reserve, the Masai Mara. Game drives as well as balloon safaris can be organised during our stay so we can enjoy the beauty of this special place, one of the natural wonders of the world.
Arriving in Lake Naivasha we take afternoon tea at Elsamere, the home of Joy Adamson of 'Born Free' fame, where the black and white colobus monkeys entertain us. A cycling safari is then arranged in Hells Gate National Park prior to our return to Nairobi for a night out in a local restaurant.
TANZANIA
Entering the world renowned Serengeti National Park, and then Ngorongoro Crater, the next three days offer opportunities to view Africa's unparalleled wildlife against a backdrop of exquisite landscapes. There is time as well to experience a traditional Maasai village. Visit a chief's mud hut and see some traditional dancing. Take time for some lively market shopping at Mto Wa Mbu and on our return to Arusha a camel safari. Reaching Dar Es Salaam we cross to Zanzibar, the exotic spice island where Africa, Arabia and the Orient meet. Shop in the teeming bazaars in Stone Town and enjoy the evening seafood markets.
For some history take a spice tour. Wander Jozani Forest to spot the rare red colobus monkeys. Swim with the dolphins. Lie back on endless sunwarmed white beaches. Scuba dive or snorkel amidst twisted multicoloured corals and tropical fish.
MALAWI
Travelling into what is known as the 'warm heart' of Africa, we relax at beach resorts as we travel south down the lake. There is time to cook a hungi or spit roast and visit the friendly fishing villages and in craft markets where local artisans display detailed carvings of ebony, mahogany, ironwood and teak.
Enjoy time with the local people who arrange a local traditional meal for all who want to visit and the local school always offers a warm welcome. Climb Livingstonia Plateau amidst breathtaking scenery of lush plantations, woodlands and waterfalls. Horse riding in and by the lake, windsurfing, water skiing and scuba diving are all available.
On some months we also visit Vwaza Marsh for guided walks in the bush - a chance to see elephants amongst other game including kudu, warthog and baboons, as well as hippo basking in the nearby lake, whilst on foot with the support of an escorting ranger.
Alternatively we might travel to Luwawa Forest reserve, a beautiful forest setting where you can relax and enjoy log fires at the Lodge set in beautiful gardens as well as numerous activities including cycling, hiking, fishing, boating or abseiling.
ZAMBIA
Leaving the Lake we head into Zambia. On safaris departures 18 May 09 - 28 Sept 09 we now travel over some true African bush roads to South Luangwa National Park. South Luanga is a beautiful game park in southern Africa, with the Luangwa River being its life blood. It is unique for its night game drives and walking safaris. At night we often can spy leopard by spot light. Hippo also come out at night to graze. The park also contains some of the largest concentrations of elephant in Africa as well as lion. Elephants also frequent the popular campsite where we stay.
After two nights enjoying the wilds of the park we continue to Lusaka, the capital of Zambia.
Arriving in Lake Kariba we regularly hire a houseboat for a break from truck life and cruise the lake for two nights. The boats have bedrooms and a kitchen, bar and on board chef giving us a break from cooking. The man-made lake took 9 years to build, the dam wall being completed by 1959 when the plains began to flood, animals became stranded on submerging islands and the National Park launched a massive rescue exercise know as Operation Noah. Whilst cruising on the houseboat we can view elephant, Cape buffalo, kudu, waterbuck. The Lake is also home to crocodile, hippo and a rich bird population. The sunsets over the lake create a rich backdrop of colour for the stark silhouettes of the fossilized hard wood trees standing sentinel in the lake. The boats also have a splash pool and a dinghy to take out fishing for the ferocious tiger fish. We usually have a party one of the evenings we are on the Lake.
Our last days are spent by the Zambezi at the Victoria Falls - white water raft the grade 5 rapids, bungee or gorge swing, tandem sky dive, canoe, jet boat and enjoy a sunset cruise. Take a Flight of the Angels in an ultra light for breathtaking views over the Falls. Lion walking, elephant rides, horse riding, the fun of interactive drumming, and much more.
The mighty Mosi O Tunya - 'the smoke that thunders' is an exciting and beautiful destination to finish your safari.
Further itinerary notes: Due to the ongoing concerns on the ground in Zimbabwe please note we are usually finishing this safari on the Livingstone side of the Zambezi at Victoria Falls. We would advise that flights can be arranged from Livingstone, on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls for the end of this safari. There is an international airport in Livingstone.
Alternatively flights can be organised out of the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwean side. Transfers can be arranged to either airport from the campsite where we stay.
Do note also this safari will travel a different route and adjust to 49 days from 9th October 09 departure. There will also be adjustments as to what the kitty will cover.
Please contact us for further details if considering travelling from this date.
Phone 0208 742 0226. Email absaf@absoluteafrica.com
|
|
|
|
