Author: monika

[Zeige als Diashow]

Situated on the northern foothills of Mt. Kenya, Lewa House is set on the 65,000 acre privately owned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Set on top of a hill with an engaging panoramic view of the rolling landscape of the Conservancy, Lewa House overlooks the luggas (valleys) and hills, with the horizon rising to the eye-catching views of the Mathews range and the sacred mountain of the Samburu, Ol Lolokwe.
All income generated by Lewa House is directly reinvested towards Lewa’s conservation and community projects. A team of dedicated and well-trained guides, staff and rangers look after Lewa House.

Accommodation
Three large cottages each with a double and twin bedroom, making it suitable for up to 12 people. All cottages have ensuite bathrooms and a private verandah where guests can sit in the cool of the evening to enjoy the starlit African skies.
Power is provided 24 hours by a solar inverter. Camera and phone batteries can be charged in the rooms and hair dryers can be used.

Lodge Amenities
• A main building with a lounge and dining area complete with fireplace and a verandah with its own special vista across the plains
• Swimming pool overlooking the waterhole
• Laundry services provided
• House computer with internet is available for use
• Mobile phone networks available
• Massage, manicures and pedicures (extra charge) but prior notice must be given
• Credit card facilities – Amex, Mastercard and Visa

Meal Plan
Full board accommodation, house-wines, beers & soft drinks. Champagne excluded. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

Included Activities
• Shared game drives in open 4×4 vehicles with knowledgeable guides, both during the day and at night
• Game walks with an experienced guide
• Horse riding for both experienced riders and novices (hats and English saddles provided)
• Camel treks
• Visits to prehistoric sites
• Cultural visits with local communities
• Education talks on the history and day to day operation of the Conservancy
• Swimming
Optional Extras
• Il’Ngwesi cultural village visit
• Massages, manicures and pedicures – prior notice must be given

Access
• Daily scheduled flight (via Nanyuki) departing Wilson Airport
• By private charter flight, directly to Lewa Downs airstrip
• By road, five hour drive from Nairobi.

Seasons
Lewa House will be closed in April and November

Situated on the northern foothills of Mt. Kenya, Kifaru House is set on the 65,000 acre privately owned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Kifaru, the Swahili word for rhino, is the dream realized by one of the Lewa Conservancy’s donors. A private villa with no compromise in quality or comfort by a unique individual.
All income generated by Kifaru House is directly reinvested towards Lewa’s conservation and community projects. The house is hosted by a team of dedicated and well-trained guides, staff and rangers.

Accommodation
Six cottages with double rooms and ensuite bathrooms. Each cottage has large windows looking out on stunning views and furnished with beautiful colonial style furniture with canopied beds and private verandahs.
Power is provided 24 hours by a solar power inverter. Camera and phone batteries can be charged in the rooms and hair dryers can be used. There is a stereo and mini fridge in every room.

Lodge Amenities
• A spacious living area with a comfortable sitting area around the fireplace
• The dining area includes a spectacular table crafted from ancient dhow wood plus an inviting fireplace
• Swimming pool which looks out towards Mt. Kenya
• A library with internet access, DVD player and satellite TV
• Laundry services provided
• Mobile phone networks available
• Massage, manicures and pedicures (extra charge) but prior notice must be given
• Credit card facilities – Amex, Mastercard and Visa

Meal Plan
Full board accommodation, house-wines, beers & soft drinks. Champagne excluded. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

Included Activities
• Shared game drives in open 4×4 vehicles with knowledgeable guides, both during the day and at night
• Game walks with an experienced guide
• Horse riding for both experienced riders and novices (hats and English saddles provided)
• Camel treks
• Visits to prehistoric sites
• Cultural visits with local communities
• Education talks on the history and day to day operation of the Conservancy
• Swimming

Optional Extras
• Il’Ngwesi cultural village visit
• Heli-fishing on Lake Rutundu, Mt. Kenya – by pre-arrangement
• Massages, manicures and pedicures – prior notice must be given

Access
• Daily scheduled flight (via Nanyuki) departing Wilson Airport to Lewa Downs airstrip.
• By private charter flight, directly to Lewa Downs airstrip
• By road, five hour drive from Nairobi.

Seasons
Kifaru House will be closed in April and November

[Zeige als Diashow]

Discover the magic of Safari at Mara Bushtops

The unmissable Masai Mara

Without doubt one of the world’s most spectacular game reserves, Kenya’s treasured National Park – the Masai Mara – provides a breathtaking backdrop to the ultimate Safari experience.

Taking its name from the region’s vast ‘dotted plains’, the landscape is a constantly moving tableau, literally teeming with an endless variety of wildlife. In this magnificent wilderness you can immerse yourself in myriad new sensations; waking to the call of lions and buffalo, thrilling at the closeness of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles, basking in the glow of a crackling camp fire at twilight, and dreaming under a dazzling night-canopy of stars.

Nestled on the edge of this intoxicating scene, we’ve created an oasis of five star luxury for serious Safari seekers. Within the 200-acre ranch of Mara Bushtops camp, you’ll find an exciting blend of tranquillity and adventure where you can relax in first class comfort surrounded by one of nature’s living masterpieces.

A stunning location

Set amid the Mara Bushtops private Conservancy and bordering the 60,000 hectares Mara Siana Wildlife Conservancy, directly bordering the Masai Mara itself, Mara Bushtops boasts a sensational location. Perched on top of a hill with a scenic valley to one side, the camp lies just ten minutes’ drive from the main gate of the National Park and within striking distance of the beautiful Mara River where the famous river crossing of wildebeest and zebras takes place during the migration. Although in the heart of the wilderness, this Safari paradise is surprisingly accessible, with two nearby airstrips at Siana Springs and Keekorok – just 10 minutes and only a game drive away from the camp – and a choice of direct flights arriving daily from Malindi, Mombasa, Diani or Nairobi.

Experience ‘civilised’ wilderness living, in inimitable style

Freedom, comfort and breathtaking views

At Mara Bushtops, you step into a world where nature and contemporary comfort blend into one. Wander through a timeless space where natural wooden decking links the sun-drenched outdoors to cool interiors; where fine furnishings reflect the elegance of African culture; and where your luxury tent affords utter privacy, as close to nature as you can get.

Embracing a philosophy of environmental conservation, Mara Bushtops has been cleverly designed to make the most of natural resources as well as modern amenities. While the camp uses solar power for most of its energy needs, no expense has been spared on the fittings provided in the 12 spacious and fabulously appointed luxury tents, open on three sides to the great outdoors and each with its own special view.

Why not lounge away a few hours on your own private wooden deck, where a telescope ensures abundant opportunity to view the magnificent game roaming the reserves below? Or indulge in a languorous afternoon wallow in your own outdoor sunken tub – the perfect prelude to a relaxed Sundowner at twilight, delivered by one of our discreet butlers direct to your veranda.

Thoughtfully designed to the finest detail

Featuring beautiful interiors designed for the ultimate in comfort and convenience, our private accommodation has everything you need for a luxurious stay. While our camp boasts the biggest tents in East Africa, it has also been equipped with modern furniture and fittings chosen for their quality and aesthetic appeal.

Each tent has large Comfort beds, delightfully fitted en-suite bathroom with indoor and outside shower, a dining table and writing desk for your personal use. 24 hour butler service is available, allowing guests to dine from a mouth- watering a la carte menu in the privacy of their own tent, and a laundry service is also provided on request.

Mara Bushtops welcomes children of 7 years upwards, and we’re happy to provide an additional bed in your tent.

An ambience woven from warm hospitality, local experience and traditional African culture

Relax in a timeless atmosphere

Perched in a uniquely advantageous position on top of a hill, our inviting reception and lounge area offer guests a cool, quiet corner to enjoy stunning views of the Masai Mara, as well as a sociable gathering place in the evening. Mingling comes easily in this inspirational space, where attractive wooden decking links outside to inside, and our friendly bar provides a refreshing welcome after the heat and excitement of a day’s safari.

From one of our many wooden decks you can gaze across the camp’s immaculate grounds with its own natural wetland system, to the distant plains and faraway hills, with nothing to spoil a simply perfect panoramic view.

Enjoy exquisite dining

No Safari camp is complete without its water hole. And what better time to observe the comings and goings in this wildlife focal point, than over a lavish meal in a superb restaurant? Our dining room and outdoor spacious veranda overlooks a vibrant scene where an abundance of game comes to drink and bathe throughout the day and evening, and any romantic dinner for two in this dreamlike venue is magically enhanced by our very elegant and friendly service. Here you can whet your appetite both for game viewing and fine dining at once, selecting from a choice of sumptuous a la carte dishes while the wildlife provides natural entertainment.

… & wining

Wine lovers simply mustn’t miss sampling our unique wine cellar, where you’ll find a carefully selected range of world-famous wines kept in optimum climatic condition by ancient carbon refrigeration techniques. Here you can enjoy the wine of your choice with a meal served in the original cellar, for a truly vintage experience.

Quiet moments

After an invigorating day out in the wilderness, you can return to the peace of our camp and slip away into your own world and gently unwind. Our library offers the chance to immerse yourself in a good book to while away a few hours, or you could steal some precious time for yourself with a pampering hot tub or a massage which you can enjoy in the privacy of your tent.

As the sun sets on the glowing horizon, it’s the perfect time to absorb the unique atmosphere of our camp fire, sipping a delicious Sundowner cocktail in typical Safari style. But being away from it all doesn’t mean you can’t stay in touch – we provide easy access to the Internet for our all guests from a convenient point in reception.

Exhilarating activities in the wild

Plunge into the cool blue waters of our private pool and touch the infinity of the landscape. Where gentle ripples meet the horizon, you can float and dream amid spectacular views, suspended before a vast and seemingly endless backdrop of hazy plains and purple mountains. Dip into pure luxury and dry in the balmy African breeze on our sun-drenched deck, totally refreshed.

Ride in the tracks of the ‘big five’ on an unforgettable Game Drive into the heart of the Masai Mara. Travelling in one of our specially converted 4 x 4’s, either on your own, in a private party, or with a group of other guests, you’ll be in the very best seats for game viewing, while our highly qualified driver-guides will make sure you get some rare glimpses of wildlife that you’ll never forget. You can set off at sunrise for a half- or full day’s drive, or, because we’re situated on our own vast private ranch, you can venture out after dark for a high-adrenalin nocturnal Safari.

Launch yourself into another world on a Balloon Safari and get a bird’s eye view of the roaming herds criss-crossing the plains below. The package can be booked at camp reception and includes transfers, the flight, a champagne breakfast, your flight certificate and a return transfer to the camp.

What to Spot
Witness one of the Wonders of the World:
The Wildebeest Migration, when large herds of wildebeest and zebras migrate across the Masai Mara
in a yearly pattern.
Watch hippos enjoying a bath in one of the region’s many rivers, catch a glimpse of gazelles feeding,
and hear the regular roaring of our resident lions.
See giraffes, impalas and topis tasting the salt in our own salt-lick at the water hole.
Identify the strange sound of a porcupine, spot up to 450 different bird species – including
the Paradise Flycatcher and Purple Grenadier – and snap a photo of a crocodile on the
Mara River.

More Mara magic
Mara Bushtops offers a whole range of activities from walking safaris, bush picnics, walking on the nearby Sekanani Hills, bird-watching, and fishing at Lake Victoria, to cultural outings, themed dinners – including a visit to a Boma – and story-telling round the camp fire.

A bit of Mars ” Unexplored”

A remote montane paradise located in the burning waste’s of northern region.
The mount Marsabit rises sheer from the desert floor to a height of about 1707 m. Marsabit mountain is a national phenomenon. The mountain’s great mass has created its own ambient climate. Every evening, about midnight, the hot air rising from the desert floor cools and forms clinging fingers of mist which grasp the mountain rarely releasing their grip until the late part of the morning.

Although the lower slopes are scorched and dry, above them is a richly forested wonderland of crater lakes and swamps, towering cliffs and giant trees, with a dazzling array of wildlife. Here bird and beast dart between the tall stands of juniper and podocarpus in a scene much as wildlife film-makers Osa and Martin Johnson recorded when they made their home at Lake Paradise, one of the crater lakes, in the 1930’s. Many species of raptors inhabit the shaggy cliffs and the treetops around Lake Paradise and Sokorte Guda, a cliff lined bowl which forms a natural amphitheatre in which Marsabit’s elephants parade to drink in the late afternoon. Large herds of buffalo join this display.

What to see
Land of Gofs
Born out of vulcanic fire and shaped by mist, it is peppered with extinct volcanic craters known locally as GOFS cloaked in a romantic moss-encrusted forests, craters are lined with stands on junuper. Gof Bongole on the western periphery of the park is the largest and most dramatic of the craters, having a 10 km rim, Gof sokirte diko lies adjacent to Marsabit Lodge.

[Zeige als Diashow]

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Magical Lake Paradise
The natural amphitheatre of Gof Sokorte Guda, with it’s 150 m high caldera shelters the fresh water of lake paradise. Sublimely beautiful ringed by forests whose trees are laced with delicate filigrees of Spanish mossand the silken cloaked Columbus monkey.

Wild wildlife
Species found on the mountain include the shy greater kudu and other antelope as well as lion and leopard emerging from the forest surrounding lake paradise in the late afternoon to drink. This display is topped by the buffaloes and elephants.

Home for the huge Tusked Bull Elephants
Marsabit is one of the few places in Africa where elephants with tusks over 30 kg can still be seen through they tend to keep to the forests hence difficult to locate. For an estimated 63 years Marsabit was the home of Ahmed, patriach of the forest, guarded from hunters seeking his mighty tusks, by a presidential decree. A model of Ahmed now stands in the National Museum in Nairobi. Now his scions wander the forest under the watchful eyes of the reserve’s rangers.

The greater Kudu, King of antelopes
Marsabit is renowned as the habitat of one of the most regal of Kenyan’s antelopes, the greater kudu. Abundant until 1960 when they where decimated by an out break of rinderpest, the greater kudu has made a determinded comeback and today their numbers are strong enough to virtually gurantee the visitor a sighting.

A rare antelope distinguished by a pair of the most magnificent spiral horns in the antelope kingdom (averaging in a bout 130 cm length) the greater kudu is large slender and gry in colour. It is also distinguished by six to eight prominent vertical white stipes on either flank (unlice its cousin the slimmer lesser kudu, which has elven stripes on each flank). Despite its impressive weight (280-320 kg) the greater kudu is a greater phenomenal jumper, clearing two meters at a single bound, it also enjoys a cute hearing, accentuated by its ability to swiver (its large round ears in almost any direction)

Forest Fauna
The heart of the park is extensive forest and as such it supports animals that one would not normally find in arid northern Kenya. There are elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, buffalo, hyena and its smaller relative insectivorous aardwolf, Grevy’s Zebra (which is specific to northern Kenya), reticulated giraffe, hyena and antelope. The undergrowth shelters antelope such as bushbuck and suni and on the lover sides of the mountain hosts olive baboons and vervet monkeys.The rare Peter’s gazelle (a local species of Grant’s gazelle).

Bird life
It has a wealth of rare birds. The semi arid plains surrounding the massif are home to such birds as : Somali Oustrich, Vulturine guinea fowl, masked and Wiliams lark (both endemic to Northern Kenya), Somali bee eater, heuglin’s bustard and cream colored courser.
Water birds include duck (southern Pochard, Garganey and teal) little grebe and rafts of red knobbed coot. Hammerkop, Ibis, purple heron and saddle-billed and yellow-billed stork feed in the sallow waters of the crater lakes, African darter and cormorant dry their wings on the overhanging branches.

Fact File
Altitude: 420 – 1700 m
Area: Marsabit National Park is 360 sq km, Marsabit National Reserve is 1554 sq km
Location: Marsabit District, Eastern Province
Distance from Nairobi: 560 km north of Nairobi, 260 km north of Isiolo
Gazzeted: 1962
Climate: January – March is hot and dry, April – June is hot and wet, July – October is very warm and dry, November – December are warm and wet.
Vegetation: Arid thorny bush dominates the lower zone merging into acacia grassland. Brown olive forest dominates the higher ground
Wildlife: Elephant, Buffalo, Greater Kudu, Hyena, Grevy’s Zebra, Kirk’s Dikdik, Reticulated Giraffe, Lion, Leopard and Baboon
Birds: 400 recorded species, including 52 species of bird of prey

Home of the Dolphin, Coconut Crab

Kisite Marine Park was established to protect the scenic islands and special habitats of a wide range of endemic marine animals and breeding migratory birds. It lies in the coral gardens beginning about 1 km south of Wasini Island and encompasses four small, and arid coral islands, each with considerable areas of fringing reef. Kisite Island features an exposed sand bar and the surrounding pellucid waters offer the most rewarding of the snorkeling sites.

Wasini Island
Essentially unspoilt (there are no roads or cars) and entirely different in terms of culture and landscape from the mainland, this peaceful island invites exploration. It features a picturesquely sculptured rocky coastline, low rag coral forest cover, numerous venerable baobab trees and two small villages. Once below the waves, but now merly washed by the incoming tide, these rather surreal grey-white coral gardens lie directly behind Wasini Village. Run by the friendly ”Wasini Women’s Cooperative Boardwalk” (offering guided walks, cool drinks and a handicraft shop), the two and a half acres of petrified coral gardens and mangrove swamps can be explored by means of a meandering timbered boardwalk leading in a circuit around the site.

What to see
The Kenyan Barrier Reef
The most outstanding feature of the Kenyan Coast, the pristine and well-developed coral barrier reef extends all the way from Shimoni in the South to Malindi in the North, without significant break, expect at the mouth of the rifers. The coral reefs referred to as the rainforests of the sea, are one of the most fascinating ecosystems on earth, sheltering nearly one million types of marine life.

Enchanted Underwater Kingdom
An enchanted realm of living coral gardens, sculpted islands, wheeling seabirds and sparklingly clear seas, this world famous Marine Park promises and underwater world of unbelievable color, discovery and vibrancy. The reef provides food and shelter for an entire community. A shifting rainbow of small fish, octopus and calms hide in the gaps between the rainbow coral, celestial blue parrotfish use their hard beaks to chew off lumps of coral while a kaleidoscope of soup plate sized snappers, rubber fish, zebra fish, butterfly fish, angel fish and scorpion fish shimmer in the clear waters. Hunting sharks, rays, turtles and starfish also prowl the reef in search of prey while moray eels hide in holes alongside small crabs and wrasses (long, spiny finned fish). Sea cucumbers, brittle stars and numerous species of mollusk also feed on the plentiful algae of these warm coastal waters. The reef features 12 species of sea grass and numerous sponges.

Turtle Territory
The Park is famous for its population of Turtles: Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Ridley and Leatherback.

Dolphin and Whale Spotting
The reef offers sanctuary to over 200 dolphins (spinner, humpback and bottle-nosed)which can be encounterd singly or in schools, above and below the waves. You may even be fortunate enough to see a humphback whale (October-December). Whale sharks meanwhile are often seen around the Mpunguti Islands.

Kisite Island, Realm of the Seabirds
Kisite Island is flat, treeless and often only visible as a sandbar. At its tip is a rocky outcrop, which makes an ideal seabird habitat supporting an abundance of pelagic-feeding birds including a breeding colony of roseate terms and nesting sooty terns.

Divers and Snorkellers Paradise
Due to its warm shallow waters, exceptional clarity, pristine coral and extraordinary breath of marine life, the Park and the Reserve offer an excellent dive venue for beginners and professionals alike. The warm dear waters, spectacular soft corals and kaleidoscopic marine life make this Park one of the finest snorkeling venues in Kenya, the most popular areas lying in the main coral garden towards the outer edge of Kisite anchorage area.
Visitor Tip: The best time to snorkel is two hours either side of low tide, when the great amount of marine life is revealed.

The Shimoni Slave Caves
Only five minutes from Shimoni Pier, and well worthy a visit, are the ancient coral caves of Shimoni. Vast, cavernous bat-filled, they are reputed to extend 5 km inland and served for centuries as ”Kayas” or scared sites of worship and sanctuary for the local community. Later, in the 18th and 19th century, the caves are also believed to have served as the holding areas for the thousands of slaves captured in the African interior, who were in transit to the infamous Arabian slave markets of Zanzibar. The caves, which are run as a community project, are open from 08.30 am to 06.00 pm (entrance fee is payable)

Fact File.
Altitude: Sea level to about 5 meters.
Area: 39 sq km (Kisite Park: 28 sq km Mpunguti Reserve: 11 sq km)
Location: Kwale District, Coast Province, The Marine Park lies 6 km off the Kenyan Coast (at Shimoni) and 8 km north the Tanzanian Border
Distance from Nairobi: 550 Km
Distance from Mombasa: 120 km
Gazetted: 1978
Climate: The Coast is humid with mean annual temperatures ranging from 22-34 degrees centigrad. Rainfall is around 500mm pa.
Vegetation: Sea grasses and marine algae
Marine Life: Comprises more than 250 recorded species, including fish, dolphins, sea turtles, whales, corals, sea grass and gastropods. Many seabirds in large nesting colonies and internationally significant numbers of crab-plover and roseate tern.

Sporting facilities: Swimming, sailing, snorkeling and diving

[Zeige als Diashow]

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Samburu Game Lodge picuresquely located at the Banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River is home to the crocodile and the elephant with the shy leopard spotted frequently on trees around the luscious land. Experience the Samburu culture and feel the magic of this Game Reserve. Enjoy dining by the river whether for breakfast or under the stars at a specially organised Bush Dinner. You can choose to relax after your game drive by the inviting waters of our pool or enjoy treatments at the semi-outdoor-spa.

One of Kenya’s most long-established game lodges, this rustically tranquil lodge stands on the banks of the mighty Ewaso Nyiro River, which is the very lifeblood of this otherwise starkly beautiful but arid reserve. Secluded within 10 acres of pristine riverine forest, the restaurant, bars and the majority of the rooms look out over the river, which acts as a magnet for vast herd of elephants; and for leopards, lions, hippos and huge Nile crocodiles.

Ideally located at the very centre of one of the world’s few remaining sanctuaries for the endangered Grevy’s zebra, the rare beisa oryx and the blue-shanked Somali ostrich, this perennially popular lodge offers an enduringly authentic safari experience that is seldom replicated.

The Samburu National Reserve of northern Kenya, lies 320 kilometres from Nairobi. The lodge has its own all-weather airstrip, which is less than an hour from Nairobi by air.

Widely spaced throughout the verdant acacia-shaded grounds, we offer a charming selection of standard rooms. Each is traditionally constructed from local riverstone, timber and thatch and decorated with traditional Samburu beadwork, art and sculpture. Spacious and ensuite, each room has its own generous verandah with views over the rugged Samburu hills. For the accommodation of families, we offer a series of interconnecting rooms; a number of our rooms also offer access for the physically-challenged.

Just metres back from the banks of Ewaso Nyiro river, a favourite drinking and bathing place for the elephants of the reserve, our River Rooms feature comfortable lounges, extensive verandahs and romantic four-poster beds.

Our atmospheric Lorokushu Restaurant is presented in traditional Samburu style, with a high vaulted ceiling and traditional thatch. Overlooking the calm waters of the Ewaso Nyiro River, it offers local, regional and international cuisine to the very highest standards. Three lavish buffet-styled meals are offered each day and vegetarian options are always available. In the evening, the sound of a Samburu flute drifts over the river; later a display of traditional Samburu dance is staged by local warriors and their maidens.

For those who want to savour every second of their safari experience, we recommend that you dine in the bush. We excel in the art of arranging bush breakfasts, picnic lunches or safari sundowners on the plains.

On the banks of the river, the Crocodile Bar is cleverly sited so as to be on a level with the river bank, thus allowing unique viewing of the immense Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, elephants and leopards that visit the opposite bank.

Towards sunset, bait is put out for the crocodiles, enticing them to venture within feet of those in the bar (in perfect safety).

Set slightly further back from the river and offering unforgettable sunsets, the Vulturine Bar is styled to echo the colour and vibrancy of the many flocks of Vulturine guinea fowl that typify the reserve.

An oasis of green in the centre of this otherwise aridly beautiful reserve, our free-form swimming pool and generous pool deck offers a range of comfortable loungers in both sun and shade. Our brasserie-styled café service also offers a wide range of snacks, ices and cool drinks.

Dating back to the great safaris of the 1920s, which typically included American film stars, European aristocracy and British royalty, the ’sundowner’ is one of the unforgettable icons of safari life. Served as the sun sinks over the horizon, the sundowner will be served in an exceptionally scenic spot and features waiter service and a range of home-made savouries.

We appreciate that whilst you are with us, you will want to absorb as much of this unique wilderness experience as possible. The Samburu is world famous for its wildlife, which includes some species found nowhere else. We operate our own fleet of safari-customized vehicles, with viewing hatches and open sides. All are driven by professional guides, whose knowledge of the reserves and their wildlife is unequalled. Typically, game drives set off at 6.30 am and 4.30 pm and can be timed to coincide with a bush breakfast or sundowners on the river.

So abundant is this area’s birdlife that it is possible to notch up over 100 species in a day, the most noteworthy being the rare blue-shanked Somali ostrich. Secretary birds are plentiful, as are bands of bustling helmeted and vulturine guinea fowls, while along the river storks feed and sand grouse congregate at dusk. Both red-billed and Von der Decken’s hornbills are common. The rugged nature of the reserve also provides an ideal raptor habitat; common sightings include; pygmy falcons, martial eagles and Verreaux’s eagle owls. For those who would like to learn more about them, our resident naturalist offers guided bird-walks at 10am daily.

It is our belief that the ideal safari experience should offer our guests the opportunity to learn more about the culture of their hosts, the Samburu, whose name, which means ‘butterfly’ reflects the elusive vibrancy of their essence.

The lodge features a charming dance theatre, where traditional Samburu dance and music is enacted. We also delighted to arrange visits to local Samburu villages, where genuine hand-crafted beadwork and carvings are often offered for sale.

The lodge welcomes children and offers both special children’s menus and mealtimes. Additionally, we offer adjoining family suites, a ‘listening service’ to keep watch over your children, baby-sitting (by prior request), games and books, educational videos and guided walks in the grounds.

Just because you are on safari doesn’t mean you can’t maintain your own personal health and wellness. Our Eseriani Spa, named in the Samburu language as ‘the place of peace’ offers a wide range of nature-inspired body massages, scrubs and wraps, energizing facials and luxury manicures and pedicures. Raised on a wildwood deck overlooking the plains, our Spa allows you to appreciate the sights and sounds of the bush while indulging in a unique range of treatments, all of which are based on entirely natural local ingredients such as flowers, spices and coffee.

Weddings don’t get much more dramatic than when set against the stunning backdrop of the Samburu. Our choice of venues includes a wedding by the river, on the plains or in our dramatically presented dining room. We are also proficient in catering your reception to the highest standards, complete with wedding cake, champagne and a themed banquet of your choice.

Harshly beautiful, alive with birdsong and delivering some of the best views in Africa, Samburu makes the sublime honeymoon destination. We offer a wide range of honeymoon suites, all of which will be presented with wine and fruit. We are also pleased to arrange an intimate dinner for two in the bush or on your private verandah, a honeymoon breakfast in bed, or breakfast by the river.

Wilderness Lodges, for the holistic wilderness experience
The lodge is connected by telephone, VHF radio and wireless internet. We offer our own forex and medical services while our lobby features a gift shop offering both safari essentials and an enchanting range of locally crafted gifts. Services include; Forex services, 24-hour electricity, laundry, medical services and supply of petrol.

Fact Sheet:
2 Junior Suites
5 River Facing rooms
12 Cottages
42 Standard rooms

Dining & Bar
Main Dining area with views of the Ewaso Nyiro River
Crocodile Bar
Vulturine Bar
Pool Bar

Activities (some to be paid extra)
4×4 game drives
Nature Walk
Sundowners
Visit to Samburu homestead
Swimming Pool / Jacuzzi
Eseriani Spa

Facilities
Conference
Internet Access

[Zeige als Diashow]

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The World’s only wildlife capital

Nairobi National Park is Kenya’s oldest National Park and the first to be established in East Africa. It is the crown jewel of Kenya’s conservation drive, and is very unique in its offerings. No other city in the World can boast a natural wilderness, teeming with wildlife and home to over 400 species of birds, just ten kilometers from City Centre.

With an oasis of lion-gold plains, acacia-fringed rivers, leopard-stalked cliffs, plunging gorges and murky hippo pools this versatile park hosts its own wildebeest migration and is the only place on earth where you can find a black rhino against the silhouettes of office blocks and skyscrapers.

What to See
Lion-Gold Plains, Dappled Shade and Cool Valleys
With long sloping plains of black cotton soil scored by deep river valleys and gorges, Nariobi National Park is full of unexpected beauty and diverse habitats, which include rolling grassy plains, riverine woodland, dense thicket, rocky gorges, dry upland forest and man-made dams& pools.

The Wildlife Watching Experience
On the WEstern end of the park right near the main entrance, is where most of the woodland is concentrated making it a good location to spot giraffes and (at dawn) leopards. Teh various man-made dams and ponds draw concentrations of up to 25000 wild herbivores especially during the dry season ranging from Zebra, Maasai Giraffe, Buffalo & various Antelope Species. The Nairobi National Park’s thriving prides of lions prefer the open country while the Cheetah families can be spotted sunbathing on top of the directional signs. Leopards are found in their quite familiar spot lying along the branches of the riverine acacias.

A thriving Rhino Sanctuary
Enclosed in the National Park is one of Kenya’s most successful rhino sanctuaries that has received wide acclaim world over. Nairobi National Park has the highest density of black rhinos in the country.

An Ornithological Paradise
The Park’s exeptional birdlife records a remarkable 400 species; their numbers swell between March-May when a host of European bird migrants make the park their home. Look out for the Marabou Storks, Vultures and Hawak Ealgles perched high in the acacia trees and on the grasslands for Secretary Birds, Kori Bustard, Ostrich, Crowned Crane and the gorgeous Jackson’s Widowbird. For bird lover’s, there is so much more than can be mentiond herein.

Activity:
Impala Observation Point: High on a hill a few meters from the main gate this site offers a stone built rondavel with panoramic views and a picnic area (with latrines)

The Ivory Burning site: Close to the main gate. This is the venue where former President Daniel Arap Moi, Kenyas second President, set fire to 12 tons of Ivory in a bid to eleminate the mass slaughter of Africa’s elephants in 1989. The site offers a popular venue for Corporate and social functions such as product launches, anniversaries, celebrations, weddings and others.

Kingfisher Picnic Site: A reen shaded Area with picnic tables, ideal for early morning bush sunrise breakfasts and sundowners. This site is also ideal for lunchtime relaxtion after an exhaustive game drive.

Mokoyeti Picnic Site: An open cliff top site with shaded tables, latrines and extensive parking. Close by is Leopard Cliff observation point, looking down into the gorge below. This site is ideal for families or large groups any time of the day.

Hippo Pools and Nature Trails: A short self guided nature trai. (Patrolled by KWS Rangers) leads out of a shaded picnic area (latrines and running water avilable) alon the Athi River and offers the opportunity of viewing Hippo, Crocodile, Monkey, Terrapin and a large variety of birds. The nature trails are connected via a foot bridge to Olmakao Maasai Cultural Village where visitors have an opportunity to interact with the indigenours Maasai Community.

Nairobi Safari Walk
The Safari Walk (just before and to the right of the Nairobi National Park main gate) offers the rare chance of viewing different animals behaving as they would in their natural habitat. Traversed by panoramic raised timbered boardwalks it also makes for an informative walk and an enjoyable family outing.

The Nairobi Animal Orphanage
This small enclosure shelters a shifting population of orphaned, abandoned or wounded animals, most of whom are regaining their strength before being released back into the wild.

Fact File Nairobi National Park:
Altitude: 1540 – 1780 meters above sea level
Area: 117 sq.Km
Location: Nairobi province
Distance from Nairobi: 10 km from City Center
Gazetted: December 1946 (Kenya’s first National Park)
Climate: January – March is hot and dry, April – June is hot and wet, and July – October is very warm and wet
Vegetation: The Park has three main zones: Dry highland forest at the western end, Riverine-forested areas to the south and Rolling grasslands which cover 99 % of the Park.
Wildlife: Over 80 recorded species to include rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, crocodile and hippo (there are no elephants)
Birds: More than 400 recorded species

Untamed wilderness, secluded splendour

High in the mist-wreathed hills of western Kenya presides a towering vulcanic giant, crowned by a vast crater. Etched by glacial tarns, honeycombed by labyrinthine caves, fissured by valleys and cascaded by streams, Mt. Elgon is cloaked in forest and straddles the border between Kenya and Uganda.
Sometimes known as the Mountain of the Beast, other times the Mountain of Illusion, the basalt bluffs of enigmatric Elgon have been held sacred for centuries and ancient beyond comprehension, remain a potent link with the dawn of time.

Mt. Elgon, the Mountain
An ancient massif, Mt. Elgon reaches over 4.300 m (14.000 ft) at its highest peaks.
Like other East African mountains, Mt. Elgon is part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley and the eighth highest mountain in Africa today. Mt. Elgon slopes are famous for its towering cliffs, snaking river valleys, caves and plunging waterfalls.

What to See
Caves
Mt. Elgon is dotted with caves formed from ancient lava tubes namely Kitum, Makingeny, Chepnyalil and Ngwarisha. The caves were used until recently by the local communities for traditional ceremonies. A range of creatures including bats and spiders use the Mt. Elgon caves as their shelter.
Kitum and Makindgeny caves are easily accessible from a park road on well maintained trails.

Salt-Mining Elephants of Kitum Cave
Kitum Cave is regularly visited by herds of elephants, dubbed the troglodyte tuskers, as well as bushbuck, duiker and buffalo, all in search of the salts that around in the mineral-rich earth of the caves. These elephants are elusive. Typical of most forest animals, thy are shy and generally wary.

Spectacular Waterfall
Makingeny Cave, located not far from Kitum, has a spectacular waterfall over its mouth.

Game Viewing around the Mountain
As one of Kenya’s more secluded and less disturbed areas, Mt. Elgon offers its wildlife and visitors alike a truly natural haven. In addition to the elephants, other commonly sighted animals include leopard, buffalo, waterbuck, olive baboon, giant forest hog, duiker, black and white colobus monkey.

Bird Watching
Mt. Elgon is an Important Bird Area (IBA). More then 240 species of birds have been sighted on the mountain. Bird watching at the glade itself and along the quiet forest roads you may find Thick-billed Honeyguide and Purple-throated Cukoo-shrike. The designated trails are great for early morning birding with the possibility of sighting Toss’s and Hartlaub’s Turaco’s.
Black- and white-casqued hornbills and if you are lucky an African Crowned Eagle.

Vegetation
The diverse terrain and dramatic ascents of altitude combined with the vagaries of rainfall and weather produce four distinct vegetation zones on Mt. Elgon.
They include:

The Lush Montane Forest (2000 m – 2500 m) The forest is of the dry, highland evergreen type and includes over 100 species as well a epiphytic orchids, ferns and trailling lianas. The best place to see this type of forest is on the Chelulus circuit.

Mixed Bamboo (3000 m – 3500 m) Togehter with the forest contain the highest biodiversity on the mountain.

Heath Zone (3000 m – 3500 m) Is characterized by dense scrub and brilliant wildflowers.

Moorland Zone (3000 m – 4321 m) Boasts the highest number of endemic plants species on the mountain. The open moorland grassland is dotted with clusters of peculiar Giant grounded plus Lobelia plants which are unique to East Africa.

Activities
Mountain Climbing, Hiking and Walking
Mt Elgon offers a moorland panorama with breathtaking views that is ideal for walking, trekking and hiking expeditions. The climbing routes are gentle and largely free of vegetation, making the going easy. While there is no permanent snow on the mountain,seasonal snow sometimes lies in the crater and the mountain can become extremely cold at night.
Because of its milder climate and moderate slopes, the park offers fine climbing choices for those looking for a less strenuous climb. The mountain requires no technical climbing skills and all the major summits are easily accessible to hikers. There are several routes to the peaks accessible to any moderately experienced hiker. If you prefer a gentler stroll, a number of well-marked nature trails lead around the Elkony Caves.
To trek to the higher slopes you need a tent and camping gear and a KWS ranger is rquired to accompany you. Mt. Elgon can be climbed any time of the year, but it is the best to avoid the months of heaviest rain: from the end of April to May and August to September.
For the finest views from the mountain, discover some of the traditional vantage points:
Elephant Platform, a flat outcrop overlooking the northern acacia-filled valley and the northern Cherangani Hills
Endebess Bluff, a basalt columm that offers magnificent views over the rolling reaches of the Cherangani Hills

Horse Riding at Mt. Elgon
Experience the unique exhilaration of riding on the mountain past a herd of elephants. It is possible to get unusually very close to wildlife on horseback. For reservation please contact the warden. (in advance we can do the reservation for your)

Fact File

Area: 169 sq km
Altitude: 2100 m to 4222 m
Location: 420 km northwest of Nairobi, Trans Nzoia District in Rift Valley
Gazetted: April 1968
Climate: The wettest season occurs from march to October, with a short dry period around June/July and the driest is from November to February.
Vegetation: Ranges from wet montane and bamboo forest to afro-alpine moorlands on the upper slopes. Endemics include giant senecious
Mammals: Elephants, leopard, giant forest hog,bushbuck, buffalo, duiker, black and white colobus, blue monkeys and golden cat among others.
Birds: More then 240 bird species in the area, including the African crowned eagle, Ross’s turaco, and red fronted parrot.
Peaks: The highest peak is Wagagai (4321 m) on the far side of the crater in Uganda. The highest peaks on the Kenyan side are Lower Elgon or Sudek (4301 m), Koitoboss (4222 m) and Endebess Bluff (2563 m). There are hot springs on the floor of the crater.
Roads: Roads are largely well maintained dirt, suitable for 2wd for most of the year. Use of 4wd is advisable in the wet season.