Spring Break action

If the dreary winter evenings leave you day-dreaming about escaping to somewhere sunnier in the New Year, a special Spring Break Safari we’ve lined up might be just what you need. Running from March 3-10, this week-long itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to showcase the cream of Kenya’s attractions. And every part of this adventure has been chosen for its child-friendly features, so it makes the ideal family safari.

Rhinos are among the attractions
at Lewa Downs

The game-viewing experience combines the best of two worlds – the exclusivity of the esteemed Lewa Downs wildlife conservancy, and the awesome, must-see spectacle of the famed Masai Mara. At Lewa Downs, expect to see rhinos, elephants, antelopes, giraffes and a plethora of bird species. These encounters take place in one of Africa’s most beautiful settings, against the backdrop of the snow-capped Mount Kenya. The Masai Mara promises to build on the game-viewing thrills with all of Africa’s coveted Big Five on its roll. With mile-upon-mile of savannah and iconic acacia trees dotted across the landscape, you’ll be in no doubt that you’ve found the African wilderness.

This jam-packed tour also has some seductive extras for guests who fancy something out of the ordinary. A once-in-a-lifetime flight in a classic bi-plane will echo the romantic early days of safari. Hot-air ballooning, horse-riding and fishing excursions are all up for grabs too. And everyone on this trip will get to take part in a fascinating cultural visit to a Masai village.
 

A giraffe making a new friend
at Giraffe Manor

Guests can recover from the excitement of this sense-stimulating schedule in accommodation which is stylish and relaxing, with the attentive and sincere hospitality which always comes with an Africa House safari. The elegant Giraffe Manor not only takes you back in time with its 1930s styling – it also delivers a unique twist of eating breakfast alongside the hotel’s gorgeous resident giraffes.

The luxury continues into the accommodation on camp. At Lewa, the comfortable pool and private raised tents with open verandas ensure that the magnificent scenery is enjoyed to the full. And the Elephant Pepper Camp on the Masai Mara is a beautifully atmospheric eco-camp where top service and campfires under the stars make for amazing memories.

All in all, this special Spring Safari promises some truly magical experiences, which we’re certainly looking forward to. If you can get away this spring, we’d love for you to join us. Click here for details.

An East African Christmas

With the festive season in flow, many of us turn to the comfort of the time-honoured traditions which make Christmas the most magical part of the year. Here in East Africa too, Christmas celebrations are a revered ritual – with some aspects which people elsewhere in the world would recognise and others which are particular to this region.

Many facets of Christmas in Kenya and its neighbours resemble those in parts of Europe and the America. Of course, the most treasured part about the Christmas holiday for most is the chance to spend time with loved-ones. And this emphasis on families and friends getting together is what really makes the season special here in East Africa just as elsewhere.

Lots of the festive customs here would be familiar in the West too. The singing of carols is a treasured part of proceedings. And brightly coloured decorations, candles and Christmas trees are popular in many homes and public places. The exchanging of gifts and greetings cards is another of the traditions outsiders would recognise.

But there is much that looks and feels different here too. For one thing, the cold weather which helps define the season in the higher reaches of the northern hemisphere is, as you’d expect, not a feature of an African Christmas! In fact, the holiday comes at what is one of the hottest times of the year for much of the region. And while Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25 in Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda, you might be surprised to learn that it falls on January 7 in Ethiopia, as a consequence of the country observing a different calendar.

Christmas dinner is rather different here too. While Brits or Americans might be tucking into a turkey, an East African family is more likely to be gathered around a roasted goat dish called nyama choma. Depending on exactly which part of East Africa you’re in, the festive meal might alternatively consist of beef, fish, or chapatti bread with chutneys.

Another practice that sets Christmas apart in East Africa is the playing of sports on Christmas Day. While those in the world’s colder climes huddle around a fire to pull crackers, the hot contrast of Africa brings people out to enjoy more active pursuits. In Ethiopia, a hockey-like game called Ganna (which also means Christmas here), which involves a curved stick and wooden ball, is a popular event on Christmas Day.

Whatever form Christmas takes for you, we wish you well over the festive period and look forward to talking to you in 2012. May we wish you a Merry Christmas - or in Swahili, Kuwa na Krismasi njema!

Renovation plans at leading luxury camps

A planned programme of exciting refurbishments has been announced by Heritage Hotels. Next March, the company will begin major improvements to its luxury tented accommodations at Samburu and Mara.

At the award-winning Mara Intrepids, the main restaurant and bar will be relocated and re-designed in an overhaul that is expected to take three months. Its sister camp, the Samburu Intrepids, will undergo a two-month renovation of its public areas and swimming pool.

A family tent at Mara Intrepids

Each of these tented camps has long been popular with Africa House and our guests. Stylish design, brilliant family activities, sensational locations and excellent, friendly service have combined to make the Intrepids properties perennial favourites on the African luxury travel scene.

So we are pleased to see investment being made in what are already two of East Africa’s benchmark tourist properties. Heritage Hotels has promised that the renovations won't mean disruption for guests staying during the transition. We can’t wait to see these great tented camps get even better and look forward to reporting on the renovations when they are completed next year.

Positive steps for coastal environment in Tanzania

East Africa’s natural heritage is a highly prized asset for local people and guests alike. So it is encouraging that an initiative to protect Tanzania’s delicate coastal environment has been so successful that it has received a prestigious award.


The bizarre dugong, for which Tanzania's
coasts are a vital habitat

The project, led by top conservation organisation WWF, aimed to safeguard the ecological well-being of marine life around the districts of Rufiji Delta, Mafia Island and Kilwa. Practices such as dynamite fishing had damaged the area’s fragile ecosystem, threatening the health of coral reefs, mangrove forest and important species such as the dugong. They also jeopardised the long-term security of fisheries on which communities in these areas depend heavily for livelihoods and as an important source of dietary protein.

WWF has collaborated with the local fishing communities to promote a more sustainable approach to fishing and to stimulate economic alternatives to fishing. This partnership has resulted in a rise in fish stocks and a drop in damaging practices, helping to secure the coastal environment and the future of fishing in the region.

The project was named ‘International Relief and Development Project of the Year’ by The Association for Project Management, a UK-based charity set up to recognise excellence in projects organised for the public benefit.

Apps to enhance an African adventure

We know that an African safari is all about escaping daily life and connecting with the wild. But we also know that for committed technophiles, the thought of leaving your smart phone or iPad at home would be unthinkable. So for the gadget lovers, here are some ideas for brilliant apps which can add something extra to your safari:

Google Earth

This groundbreaking app lets you ‘fly’ you to each of your destinations for a bird's-eye view of where you will be staying. It’s a great way to whet your appetite with a virtual run-through of your itinerary. You can pore over maps and examine the terrain at an impressive level of detail. And you can check out hundreds of photos taken at the locations you’ll be visiting. What’s more, Google Earth is free on Android, iPhone, iPad and Blackberry.

Global Wi-Fi finder
While you won’t find Wi-Fi networks out on the savannah, this free Android and iPhone app from JiWire can be handy for tracking down internet hotspots while visiting cities. Accessing Wi-Fi is a clever way to avoid data charges on your smartphone or tablet. At the moment, Nairobi and the Kenyan coast seem to be the most comprehensively covered parts of East Africa in the app’s list of areas.

Kindle app
Thanks to the wonders of app technology, you can enjoy the benefits of a Kindle without actually owning a Kindle. This free, cross-platform app enables you to download books and newspapers and to read them on your mobile or tablet. It’s the perfect way to get all the travel guides, wildlife books and holiday reading you’ll ever need without the weight or the additional luggage fee. And a backlit reading medium has the edge on printed books in the dark of a luxury camp.

Wildlife app
At present, those with Apple devices have the choice of African wildlife guide apps. At £6.99, the Audubon African Wildlife app, available on iTunes, boasts a catalogue of advanced species information on 164 mammals and 284 birds. However, a smart option for Android and Blackberry users is the WikiPock app at £14.99. This powerful software gives you offline access to Wikipedia’s whole collection of articles. So as well as detailed (and largely reliable) facts on every imaginable species of wildlife, you’ll have a plethora of guides about East Africa’s National Parks, culture, history and more.

XE currency converter
The respected standard for currency conversion, this free app works across all platforms and includes every East African currency you might need. It updates with the latest conversion rates on the go but also applies the most recent rates if you stay offline. This is useful for anyone who’d rather not rely on mental arithmetic to gauge how much that market-stall masterpiece will really set you back.

A note of caution: downloading data on your mobile whe1n abroad can cost a small fortune, so it’s worth checking your rates and being sparing with your usage. Turning off data roaming and making use of locally available Wi-Fi networks is a great way to minimise internet charges. And where possible, load apps before you leave and access them offline to avoid internet usage altogether while in Africa.

Have you used any of the apps we’ve featured or alternatives to them while on safari in Africa or elsewhere? We’d love to hear any recommendations or reviews you have about any that you’ve tried. Feel free to tell everyone through our Facebook Page or add a comment below.

Learning the lingo

In most of East Africa, you’ll find that speaking English is enough to help you get by. But learning even a little of the indigenous language for your holiday is a nice way to feel more immersed in the culture – and makes a respectful gesture to the local people.

There are dozens of languages and dialects spoken in East Africa, but the main unifying language in everyday use is Swahili. Knowing this fascinating language is by no means essential when visiting the region, but grasping a few important phrases enables you to make basic pleasantries or simple requests in the language.

Swahili words are relatively easy to pronounce. As a general rule, every consonant is sounded out. Where two vowels appear together, they are each pronounced separately. There are plenty of guidebooks available for understanding Swahili and to make translations on the go. But here are a few key words and phrases with which to get started:

Hello - Salama/Jambo
Hi - Habari
How are you? - Hujambo
I’m fine, thanks - Sijambo, asante
Goodbye - Kwaheri
Good night - Lala salama
Yes - Ndiyo
No - Hapana
OK - Sawa
Please - Tafadhali
Thank you - Asante
No thanks - La asante
Excuse me/Sorry - Samahani
I don’t understand - Sielewi
How much does it cost? - Bei gani?
May I take a photo? - Naomba kupiga picha?

Perfectly positioned for a Rwandan adventure

For such a tiny country, Rwanda is packed with some astonishing natural features. The list includes breathtakingly lush and rolling landscapes, wildlife-rich National Parks and, of course, its world famous mountain gorillas. Perhaps most surprisingly for a land-locked country, Rwanda also boasts soft, white sandy beaches, thanks to its beautiful lakes which include Kivu, the country’s largest.
And it is on the edge of this lake that you can find the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel. We think this hotel resort is a great find, especially as its location allows easy access to many of those attractions which make Rwanda so special.

First, there’s the immediate vicinity of the hotel, which is set right on the sandy shores of Lake Kivu. With its own private beach on this great lake, and a restaurant overlooking the water, the Serena Hotel is a gorgeous spot for a relaxing beach holiday.

The next facet of this hotel’s location which deserves attention is the fact that its nearest town is in a different country. Owing to the Serena’s position at the very edge of Rwanda’s territory, a short drive takes you into the town of Goma, which is actually over the border in the Congo (formerly Zaire). So taking a short journey down the road means you can say you’ve been to two African countries. The town of Goma itself offers the opportunity to browse and purchase traditional African craftwork and provides a fascinating insight into a city which has suffered the impacts of numerous volcanic eruptions.

A further factor which makes the Serena’s position so attractive is the accessibility of Rwanda’s greatest tourist asset of all – its silverback gorillas. The Volcanoes National Park, one of the world’s few wild places where these rare animals can be found, requires a journey but not a long one. The distance involved means avoiding the high prices of the accommodation which is much closer to the park gates. And as tracking gorillas is one of Africa’s more expensive treats, keeping the cost down by staying at an affordable hotel such as the Serena can only be a good thing.

Aside from the fantastic and varied activities and sights within a convenient range of the Serena, the hotel itself offers all the ingredients needed for an indulgent holiday in the sun. When you’re not lounging on its exclusive beach, you can relax in the swimming pool or at the health club. With comfy rooms and family facilities too, we think this makes a good all-round resort and the perfect base for a great Rwandan holiday.

New activities on offer in Tanzania

Africa House is pleased to be able to offer guests a tempting selection of actvities to consider whilst visiting Arusha in Tanzania. The latest a range of options provide another facet to an African holiday to add to the wildlife safaris or Kilimanjaro mountain climbing guests primarily come to enjoy.

The extra pursuits are designed to help guests make the most of their time in Tanzania by doing something educational, culturally interesting, or simply indulgent. They provide the ideal way to settle in and acclimatise before a main safari or climb – or to wind down and say farewell at the end. Guests are often surprised at how much a supplementary activity can add to their experience of a trip to Africa. These asides can sometimes turn out to be the most memorable part of a visit.

Here's a summary of the extra activities now available to guests visiting Arusha pre- or post-safari or Kilimanjaro climb:

Town walk

This free half-day escorted wander through the small town of Usa River provides an authentic window into the everyday life of Tanzanians, and a chance to enjoy the vibrant culture of ordinary shops and markets.

Coffee tour

An opportunity to see the production of one of Tanzania’s most important exports and one of the world’s favourite beverages on a working coffee farm. A guide takes guests through the fascinating process of coffee farming, from plant cultivation to the roasting of the seeds. The half-day trip also includes lunch – and the chance, of course, to sample and to take home some of the coffee produced here.

Cultural village visit
This half-day visit gives guests a tour of the pretty mountain village of Mulala. It provides an insight into lives of local people in what is largely a subsistence farming community. There are trips to banana and coffee plantations, which are economically important here, and the tour includes an authentic African meal.

Country club experience
Those who are seeking relaxation and pampering, perhaps following the flight on the way in or after the activity of a mountain climb or safari, need look no further than the Nduruma Country Club. With views of Mount Kilimanjaro in one direction, and Mount Meru in another, and set in thousands of acres of tranquil open savannah, this really is a country club with a difference. While here, guests can choose from an extensive list of relaxing options, whether it’s swimming in the pool, chilling in the spa or indulging in a massage or beauty treatment. Available as a half- or full-day extra, Nduruma also offers horseriding, tennis lessons, and sundowners complete with great food, wines and local beers.

If you think a trip to Tanzania is for you, get in touch to talk over your options. Whether you’d like to see the country’s best wildlife spots or take on the challenge of a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, we can arrange it for you – and you can add any of the extras above to round off your holiday.

A private paradise in Tanzania

For many, the ideal African holiday would include relaxing in the glory of wide open savannahs, bountiful game viewing, and a sense of wilderness balanced with comfort and luxury.

We think that Manyara Ranch in Tanzania, where we sent two groups of guests recently, ticks all of these boxes and more. This private ranch provides simple but beautifully presented accommodation in a 35,000-acre wildlife conservancy in northern Tanzania. The intimacy and exclusivity evoke in guests a feeling of being able to experience their own secluded piece of Africa. The atmosphere is reinforced by the tented accommodation’s classy and comfortable leather armchairs, Wedgewood beds and private decks from which to survey the surrounding vista.

The signpost for Manyara Ranch

Spending time in a conservancy affords the rare privilege of exploring on foot, creating a real feeling of freedom out in the wilderness, under the reassuring eye of an armed escort. And Manyara has much to offer the footloose explorer. The conservancy boasts prides of lions and is known for its ample population of elephants. And besides the classic big game, there are also some more unusual species here to capture the imagination, such as aardvarks, aardwolves and honey badgers.

The camp is also ideally situated for short drives to some of Tanzania’s most famous attractions. The stunningly scenic Lake Manyara National Park, a setting famously prized by Hemingway, is a conveniently short journey from camp. So too is the Tarangire National Park, with its astounding variety and concentration of animal life which includes buffalo, elephants, gerenuk and thousands of bird species.

Stylish tented accommodation at Manyara Ranch

But what makes Manyara Ranch special isn’t just its dream location but also the warm hospitality and comfort to which visitors are treated. Chris and Joanna, who run the camp, impart a passion and sincerity which make them an instant hit with guests. The personal touches, conscientious attention to detail, and great fresh food combine to make Manyara a gem for guests to Africa. But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s some of the feedback we received from those guests we sent last month:

“Thank you for an unforgettable experience. Your warmth and guidance was wonderful. We felt welcome from the start – all of your smiles, help and companionship made our time here comfortable, relaxing as well as exciting and educational. Thank you especially for giving the children special love and attention. We do not want to leave this paradise on earth. Thank you for taking care of it.”

“Thank you for a fantastic experience … the intimate climate of the camp, great food, welcoming spirit, and incredible sights. Our family's dream was realized – a true African adventure.”

“Joanna, Chris and the fabulous staff at Manyara ranch, you have given us the experience of a lifetime - everything was amazing. This place is a paradise.”

Sun, sea and safari

As ever, August has been a busy time for us at Africa House. Among the many couples, families and friends whose African adventures we’ve arranged, there have been a couple of coastal trips which have brought particularly glowing reports – proving that East Africa has more to offer than just stunning safari trips.

One of the beach resorts which stood out last month is the Turtle Bay Beach Club in Kenya. Set in the impressive Watamu Marine National Park, it was a winner for the family group who went there – which comes as no surprise, with the hotel’s great service, brilliant kids’ activities and stunning location.

One of the pools at the family-friendly
Turtle Bay Beach Club on the Kenyan coast

Another coastal location which impressed in August is Peponi Hotel in the historic Lamu town. This small, family-run hotel offers simple, beautiful décor, exceptional cuisine and views over the Indian Ocean from every room. The hotel was the ideal choice for a large group of guests looking for a coastal getaway.

It has also been a typically action-packed few weeks out on safari. We’ve been lucky enough to see a flurry of predator activity out on the Masai Mara, including some dramatic river crossings as the wildebeest and zebra continue to make their migration in search of greener pastures.

Make time for Nairobi

With the thrill of wildlife and wilderness awaiting you on a safari holiday, it’s easy to overlook Nairobi as a necessary but unremarkable hopping point between home and your ultimate destination. But the Kenyan capital shouldn’t be underestimated – you might just find that the city adds a surprisingly rich cultural element to your trip.

Nairobi is a buzzing city with variety and charm in abundance. Its British colonial past, Indian heritage and a diversity of communities combine to create a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel. Churches, mosques and temples share their places among the streets. There is also a strong sense of Nairobi as a modern, throbbing commercial centre, this being the hub of East Africa’s economic activity. This is evident in the scattering of skyscrapers you see, a vision you might not immediately match with the African skyline.

The bright lights of the Kenyan capital

The jumble of cultural influences makes for some inspiring culinary options for visitors. Plenty of great Asian restaurants can be found, with fans of Indian, Thai, Chinese and Japanese cuisine being well catered for. And naturally, traditional African menus are also widely available, serving everything from delicately spiced seafood offerings and eminently local ostrich and crocodile dishes.

As for accommodation, Nairobi provides something you might not get during the rest of your holiday – the chance to stay in a hotel. Luxury camps may well await you in later days but why not make the most of some urban civilisation too? At Africa House, we like to show you some of the best hotels Nairobi has to offer. One of those is the House of Waine, a boutique hotel in the Karen district which offers comfort, top facilities, great food, and a rarity for big city accommodation – glorious green open space.


Nairobi's House of Waine hotel

There’s plenty to keep you stimulated during your stay in the city. As well as ample shopping and sightseeing opportunities, there are some fascinating visitor attractions to check out. The Karen Blixen Museum allows you to explore the home and personal belongings of the author who did so much to romanticise Kenya through her touching memoir ‘Out of Africa’.

And it’s not just out on safari that the wildlife experiences happen in Kenya. Nairobi is unusual for a major city in that it has a game reserve, Nairobi National Park, right on its doorstep. Here resides an attraction which many an Africa House guest has loved: Daphne Sheldricks’s Elephant Orphanage. This organisation takes in baby elephants which have lost their parents from throughout Kenya. It’s a chance not only to support the commendable work which goes on here but also to witness the irresistibly cute sight of baby elephants playing and feeding.

While visiting the elephants, we also take guests to visit the nearby Giraffe Centre, run by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Kenya. You can support and learn about this organisation’s efforts to protect giraffes and enjoy the really fun part – getting close to the gorgeous towering animals themselves.

Three essential African reads

There are dozens of books out there which provide an insight into east Africa, from novels which draw on the region's magical atmosphere to books designed to offer a practical guide to visiting. If you're looking to be inpired and informed ahead of your own safari adventure, you can't go far wrong with the following three books, each a classic in its own genre.

OUT OF AFRICA – Karen Blixen

This all-time classic is the nostalgic memoir of one Danish woman’s time in Kenya. The book, which inspired the multi-Oscar-winning movie of the same name, is an absorbing recollection on Blixen’s years spent running a coffee plantation. It offers an affectionate account of 1930’s African life and a beautifully poetic look at the people, wildlife and landscapes of Kenya.

THE SAFARI COMPANION – Richard D. Estes

For anyone keen to really understand Africa’s game wildlife, The Safari Companion is the definitive field guide. This comprehensive and detailed volume tells you everything you could want to know about the continent’s mammals, from gazelles to gorillas, warthogs to wildebeest. It provides tips on how best to view each species, maps of where to find them and a scientific insight to their social behaviour. A wildlife fanatic’s dream, this book will equip you with the knowledge to impress even your Africa House Safari guide!

EAST AFRICA (Lonely Planet Multi Country Guide)

For overall travel guides, you can’t go wrong with the trusty Lonely Planet series. And the East Africa volume provides a wealth of invaluable information for you to digest. There are all the useful facts you’d expect on things like health, currency and climate. You can also do some background reading about the fascinating cultures and histories of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and their neighbours. As well as being a handy reference whilst in Africa, this book could also be a useful starting point for deciding where in East Africa you’d like Africa House to take you and what you’d most like to see and do when you’re here.

Migration news

It’s that time of year again when one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in Kenya – and on Earth – takes place. The first waves of migrating wildebeest arrived last month at the Mara River to make the treacherous crossing over the water from the Serengeti into the Masai Mara. Herds of zebras added their mass monochromatic decoration to the busy scene as they followed behind.

Masses of wildebeest and zebras have made their way
into the Masai Mara.

We have been lucky to see the action unfold while in the Masai Mara with guests again this year. And the groups we’ve hosted have been treated to some of the most dramatic scenes we remember seeing here in July. The sheer number of animals making the crossing has been striking, with thousands upon thousands of wildebeest already seen struggling to traverse the Mara River. There has been an awesome sense of excitement in the camp – and a wonderful show for the big family group and a regular Africa House safari-goer who have been here with us during these magical few weeks.

This movement into the Masai Mara is part of a wider circular migration which takes place in East Africa every year. Over a million wildebeest, together with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelle, make the continuous journey in search of fresh grass to eat. The animals follow a clockwise path around the Serengeti ecosystem of Tanzania and the smaller Masai Mara region which extends into Kenya.

The river crossings, which begin at variable times around the middle of the year, are considered a highlight of the migration. Large concentrations of the travelling animals gather to make the dangerous swim across the Mara and Talek rivers, facing the threat of crocodiles from below and the prospect of lions and cheetahs at the other side. This spectacle shows African nature at its most bountiful and most brutal.

And... action!

For anyone who’s unsure whether a trip to Africa is a prospect children might enjoy, then showing them Disneynature’s movie, African Cats, should settle the question. Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, the documentary movie follows the lives of young lions and cheetahs on the Masai Mara in Kenya. African Cats screened on April 22 (to coincide with Earth Day) in the US, and is set to hit UK cinemas on October 21. If you haven’t seen it yet, here’s a trailer to get you excited about the movie – and about East Africa:



Nobody knows more than Disney about what makes exciting and fascinating family entertainment. So if their take on the African wild has inspired your family, why not consider coming to see it for yourselves and embarking on an adventure that both the grown-ups and the kids will never forget. With our experience and expertise, we choose just the right places and activities for those travelling with kids. The camps and lodges will be ones that welcome and entertain children. The wildlife watching will be thrilling. Africa is a place of vast possibility - and safaris too can be built around the almost endless choices available, so a family adventure can be matched perfectly to your specific needs and desires.

So if your family has fallen in love with Africa at the movies, perhaps it's time to come along to see its stars in the flesh. With beauty and drama at every turn, you won’t be disappointed. And with the right hosts, everyone from the youngest to the oldest is guaranteed the time of their life. Because when it comes to family safaris, nobody knows more than Africa House.

African photo project earns top prize for Bob

Africa House guide and accomplished photographer Bob Demchuk has won a top Paris photography prize. His ‘Pokot Women’ collection was awarded the Gold prize in a category for documentary book proposals in the 2011 Prix de la Photographie Paris (Px3) competition.

A photograph of a grandmother from Bob Demchuk's
award-winning book proposal, 'Pokot Women'.

The photographs are a beautifully shot series of portraits of women from the Pokot tribe, a group who live in parts of Kenya and Uganda. Bob’s motivation for the works is both aesthetic and moral. On one level, the elegance of the Pokot people and their way of life is strikingly evident in Bob’s photos, with his production techniques adding a magical, distant quality. But there is also a serious side to the project as Bob wanted to highlight the gender inequalities which constrain the freedom and dignity of Pokot women.

Bob has decades of experience in photography and movie directing. His career has taken him to some of the world’s most spectacular and remote places. The people, wildlife and scenery of East Africa have been a particular passion for the US-based photographer and we’re delighted that he shares his love of the region with our guests when he works alongside us as a guide.

To see more of Bob’s photography and learn about his work in supporting women’s causes, visit his website.

Kenya lakes get World Heritage status

The Kenya Lake System, one of the country’s most alluring natural features, has recently been designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site. The system, which comprises three interconnected lakes – Bogoria, Nakuru and Elementaita – joins the likes of the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon on Unesco’s prestigious list of places considered to have outstanding value to humanity.



African wild dogs and flamingos at Lake Nakuru


The lakes, which are form part of the Great Rift Valley, provide a habitat for an extraordinary catalogue of wildlife. Most notably, they are a crucial site for lesser flamingos and an important nesting and breeding ground for great white pelicans. The lakes harbour a vast array of other birdlife too, including several threatened species. Many of Africa’s famous mammals also make their home here, such as giraffes, cheetahs, black rhinos and African wild dogs.

Unesco is the United Nations agency responsible for promoting the protection of places of natural or cultural importance to the world. Other Kenyan sites which have previously been awarded World Heritage status include the old town of Lamu and Mount Kenya National Park.

Planting programme helps restore vital forest

Last month, the African Wildlife Foundation led a tree-planting exercise in Kenya’s Mau Forest. The project, also involving the Kenya Wildlife Service, the Kenya Forest Service and other bodies, saw 25,000 trees planted at Mau in an effort to restore the forest in response to the progressive loss of trees caused through human activities.



Kenya's forest are vitally important
to the wider environment.

Mau, the largest mountain forest in East Africa, is of huge ecological significance to east Africa. As well as being a rich ecosystem in its own right, the forest is a crucial water catchment area. It is the source of several rivers, including the Mara, and also feeds three lakes, Victoria, Natron and Nakuru. These water courses are a vital lifeline for local communities and for a multitude of wildlife. They also play an important role in supporting the region’s tourist industry, with Lake Nakuru and its famous flamingos, for example, attracting huge numbers of visitors.

The persistent decline in Mau Forest’s extent has been caused by some local groups engaging in forest-clearing – a trend which has put into jeopardy the ecosystem’s capacity to provide water for the region. As the number of trees falls, there is less rainfall locally, and the crucial delivery of water downstream diminishes. Deforestation in Mau has already been implicated by some as a contributing factor in recent droughts.

Last month’s tree-planting signals a growing awareness in Kenya of the importance of protecting the country’s forests, not just for their inherent value and for the biodiversity they harbour, but also for their indirect significance to the wider environment. With the Kenyan government recently acknowledging their commitment to addressing the degradation of forested areas and the continuing efforts by environmental groups, it may be hoped that Kenya’s forests will get the protection they deserve.

Top family camp just got better

Something which comes as a surprise to many is East Africa’s suitability as a family holiday destination. While safaris certainly can be designed with the thrill-seeking, strictly grown-up market in mind, the region also has its fair share of options to keep children safe, comfortable and entertained.

Lemarti’s Camp in Laikipia, Northern Kenya, has earned its place among our top favourites for family accommodation in East Africa. For those who seek an African adventure with the kids in tow, but who also want to experience the best in style and luxury, it’s hard to top.

And the good news is that this intimate wilderness camp has just completed renovations which will make it even more appealing to families – two brand new family suites are now available to guests. Each comprises a main tent, with a double and a single bed, a second tent which sleeps up to four, and a shared family bathroom.

Lemarti’s has already made its mark on the many families who have enjoyed its authentic delights. Far from merely offering distraction to children while parents can relax, the Samburu staff who run the camp provide young tourists with a genuine glimpse into their community life. Learning bushcrafts from local warriors and playing with the local children, kids invariably relish the chance to become absorbed in a culture so different from their own. And of course, what Western child would fail to be wowed by witnessing zebras and wild dogs in the African bush?

Lemarti's provides authentic cultural interaction
which both adults and children enjoy.

What makes Lemarti’s special is the sincerity and personality with which it is run. The situations in which visitors find themselves are not manufactured or contrived. So for adult and child alike, this camp presents a rare opportunity to enjoy a truly insightful experience which mass tourism can’t come close to matching.

The recent accommodation upgrade at Lemarti’s now endows it with the flexibility and capacity to welcome any family group in comfort – and helps complete the camp’s standing as an extraordinary family holiday destination.

10 things you might not know about East Africa

1) Modern humans are thought to have originated in East Africa. Some of the earliest archaeological and fossilised artefacts associated with our earliest ancestors have been discovered in Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia. This has led to the region being known as ‘the cradle of humanity’.

2) The gelada, which lives in the Simien mountains of Ethiopia, is the world’s only existing species of grazing monkey. Also known as the ‘bleeding heart baboon’ owing to a striking patch of red on its chest, the gelada uses its excellent gripping ability to pick fresh green grass to sustain itself.


The gelada, or 'bleeding heart baboon',
is the world's only grazing monkey.

3) Kenya is a highly multilingual country. While Swahili and English are its official languages, there are well over 50 other local dialects in usage.

4) One of East Africa’s favourite beverages is banana beer. Fermented from mashed bananas, it’s a potent drink that contains around 10% alcohol by volume. Kenya and Tanzania are two of the region’s major banana beer producers.

5) The Maasai live in homes called Inkajijik. These shelters, built by women in the tribe, are either star-shaped or circular. They consist of a timber framework, a network of smaller branches, and a render made from a mixture of mud, sticks, grass, cow dung and ash.

6) In 2008, Rwanda became the first ever country to have a democratic government with a female majority. Following the election in that year, the county’s Chamber of Deputies was occupied by 45 women, accounting for 56% of the total parliamentary seats.

7) Despite being positioned almost at the Equator, Mount Kilimanjaro’s towering altitude means that the temperature at its peak can plummet to minus 25 degrees Celsius.

8) The classic movie, Out Of Africa, was filmed partly in the Ngong Hills in Kenya. The film also featured genuine descendants of the Kikuyu, a Kenyan tribe.

9) The Great Rift Valley, which passes through Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania, is visible from space. This geological depression, which is responsible for stunning volcanic, mountain and valley features on the ground, appears as a long crack in the surface on the Earth when seen from space.

10) The African elephant uses its trunk as an incredibly versatile tool. It’s used to pull leaves, strip bark from trees and suck up water for drinking or spraying to keep cool. The trunk is also utilised for greetings and communication, smelling danger, and even to fight off lions.

An elephant's trunk has an amazing
variety of uses.

New findings about African lions

Recent research into Africa lions has revealed that there is a considerable genetic difference between lions in the east and south of Africa and those in the west and central regions of the continent.

Surprisingly, the lions living further west appear to have more in common genetically with Asiatic lions than with those living in the eastern and southern regions of Africa.



It has long been known that lions watched by safari-goers to East African countries like Kenya and Tanzania appear to vary from their more westerly counterparts in several ways. The former are generally larger and stronger and have bigger manes. But the new evidence now confirms the difference at a biological level, with speculation that the two groups of lions might even be different species.



East African lions are larger and thick-maned
than their western counterparts



Mara magic

Our trip to the Masai Mara last month was a reminder of why this National Reserve is such a sensational spot for game-viewing. But more than this, it was a gratifying lesson in the merits of going on safari there during the low season.

From April through to mid-June, the number of visitors to the Mara falls off dramatically. This meant that, during our stay, it felt as though we had the whole park to ourselves. What’s more, the prices in camps and lodges are lower at this time of the year, delivering excellent value for money.

And while you don’t get to witness the great wildebeest migration that draws the crowds later in the year, the Mara offers superb year-round game-viewing (as our photos below can attest). As for the wetter weather which comes with the season, it’s more than adequately compenated for by the beautifully crystal clear air which makes the views of the wildlife and scenery even more exquisite.

One of the highlights of our safari was following a hungry lioness as she attempted to make a kill. We enjoyed the luxury of being the only onlookers as the animal sheltered in a bushy area before leaping over a river in pursuit of her grazing prey. On this occasion, the lioness was unsuccessful in her hunt. But seeing a powerful predator in action is always a potent spectacle.

All in all, the reserve lived up to its reputation as one of the world’s greatest locations for safari. And the low season it may be, but despite – and partly because – of this, it’s a thrilling time of the year to enjoy the Masai Mara.

Here's a selection from the wildlife snaps we took whilst there:

5 good reasons to visit Tanzania

1) The famous Mount Kilimanjaro

Even if you have no intention of conquering its heights, Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s most majestic sights. Its towering, snow-tipped form makes for a surreal and spectacular backdrop whilst out on safari. For those looking for a more active engagement with the mountain, an organised climb offers the opportunity of a lifetime to tackle one of world’s most famous physical challenges. Although it’s Africa’s highest point, standing at just shy of 6000m, Kilimanjaro is a relatively amateur-friendly mountain to climb. It’s tough, as any of the numerous celebrity accounts of the climb testify, but there’s no hanging off vertical rockfaces by a pick-axe! And you’ll be rewarded not only by the incredible personal achievement but also by seeing some of the most breathtaking views on Earth.

2) Exceptional wildlife viewing



Rhinos are among the huge variety of animals in Tanzania

Tanzania boasts some of Africa’s very finest game-viewing opportunities in its many National Parks and reserves. The most renowned of these is undoubtedly the Serengeti region, with its vast plains which are home to such animals as lions, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles and warthogs, to name but a few. This huge park also hosts the spectacular mass migration of wildebeest and zebras. With most of this annual journey taking place on Tanzanian soil, you have a good chance of catching some stage of the migration virtually whenever you visit.

3) Stunning volcanic landscapes

Besides the huge moutains which it boasts, Tanzania provides plenty more in the way of magnificent scenery. One outstanding highlight is the Ngorongoro Crater, a spectacular natural phenomenon. The crater is the result of a collapsed volcano called a caldera. As well as providing the extraordinary spectacle of a naturally sunken landscape surrounded by higher ground, the crater is also home to a huge variety of wildlife, including all of Africa’s Big Five.



4) Beautiful beaches

For those who like to include an element of beach relaxation in their safari itinerary, Tanzania is hard to top. The best of Tanzania’s beaches are found on the islands just off the mainland, including Mafia Island, Pemba Island and, the most famously, Zanzibar. Soft white sand and palm trees make these Indian Ocean islands a beach-lover’s paradise – allowing you to laze in the sunshine, swim in crystal clear water or undertake a more active pursuit like scuba diving. But there’s also the allure of a land steeped in tantalising history and culture. Zanzibar’s Stone Town offers a fascinating cultural insight through its ancient and atmospheric architecture and the evidence of its still-thriving exotic spice trade.

5) Wonderful people

Tanzania is home to a bewildering array
of tribes, including the Maasai

Tanzanians have earned a reputation for their warmth and modesty, traits which leave a lasting impression on visitors. The country is a glowing model of harmonious diversity, with over 100 ethnic groups living peacefully side-by-side. Tanzania’s varied influences from Africa, Arabia, Europe and India make its culture a rich tapestry. The graceful Maasai, with their colourful clothes and gloriously positive outlook, are among the country’s best-known tribal presences. Those who take the opportunity to explore the arts and culture of the Tanzanian people are rewarded by a vibrant medley of creative ideas. From bold sculptures and colourful paintings to the enchantingly rhythmic music and dance of the Swahili tradition, there’s plenty to please the senses.

A new high for Kenyan tourism

Last year saw a record number of foreign tourists visiting Kenya, bolstering the country’s position as one of Africa’s most popular holiday destinations. Arrivals by sea and air in 2010 totalled over 1.1 million, a 15% increase on the previous year.

Kenya offers an irresistible mix of wildlife and scenery

The largest source of visitors to Kenya in 2010 was the UK, which accounted for 11% of tourists. Next on the list of visitors was the US, followed by Italy, Germany and France. Big increases were seen in the number of tourists from India, China and the United Arab Emirates.

Prior to 2010, the year in which the most visitors had come to Kenya was 2007. The country’s tourist industry subsequently suffered as the political unrest at the end of 2007, despite having largely no impact in tourist areas, put off potential visitors. The international economic crisis has also played a part in dampening the recovery in tourist numbers.

But last year’s impressive figures indicate that Kenya’s popularity is back on the rise. The Kenya Tourist Board has attributed the country’s upturn in part to the quality of its offering to luxury markets.

And we’re inclined to agree. With some of the world’s most comfortable and stylish accommodation, and an astonishing concentration of beautiful wildlife, landscape and culture, it’s no surprise that Kenya is a favourite for people seeking a high-quality holiday experience.

What to wear on safari

For anyone going on safari for the first time, deciding on which clothes to take along can be a confusing business. So here’s some advice on a few of the things to think about.

Probably the most important factor in choosing what to pack is comfort. As the temperature can vary considerably at different times of the day, it’s a good idea to take a selection of long and short sleeves, and shorts/skirts and trousers. Layers that can be easily added or removed offer an effective way to adapt quickly to the changing conditions.

Neutral-coloured clothes and a sun hat are ideal safari attire

The colour of clothing is something over which many first-time visitors ruminate. In fact, most colours are acceptable out in the bush, and despite the typical image of people wearing khaki on safari, it’s not necessary to buy a whole new wardrobe in this shade just for your trip. That said, neutral colours such as browns and greens are preferable to white or bright shades, which can scare away the animals which you want to get close to. A definite no-no is camouflage, which it is illegal to wear in much of Africa.

A sunhat is invaluable for protecting your head from the Africa’s powerful overhead rays. One which is either tight-fitting or has an under-chin strap is advisable to prevent it from being blown off on journeys in open-topped 4x4 vehicles.

As for shoes, unless you’re climbing mountains while you’re here, specialist footwear shouldn’t be necessary. What’s important is that your shoes will be comfortable during long periods out in the bush.

Besides these practical considerations about clothing, you might also want to bring something a little smarter for the occasions when you’re not out on safari. So you might consider packing items you’d like to wear, for example, during evening meals on the hotel dates of your itinerary.

And remember that you don’t need to bring changes of clothes to last you the entire duration of your stay. When you book with a luxury safari organisers like Africa House, a laundry service is something you can expect while you’re here. So you can travel light, safe in the knowledge that your favourite outfit will be cleaned and ironed in preparation for another trip out in the wild – and leaving you to concentrate on enjoying the magic of Africa.

Drawing interest

Martin Aveling’s exquisite animal portraits have made him one of the most sought-after talents on the wildlife art scene. Having been compelled to draw during childhood years spent in Africa, he’s making a welcome return to the continent as the creative guide on our special painting safari this June. We caught up with Martin to hear his thoughts on what’s in store for guests on the forthcoming trip.

Top wildlife artist Martin Aveling

How do you feel about the prospect of an artistic adventure to Kenya?
I spent a great deal of my childhood in Kenya. Its people and wildlife were a huge influence on me wanting to pursue a career in art. I owe a lot to Kenya, and am very much looking forward to returning on art business, and sharing the experience with others whom may never have been before.

What level of artistic experience do people need to have in order to benefit form this safari?
No experience. Just an interest and desire to experiment with art materials and enjoy some of Kenya's most dramatic scenery and wildlife.

What can your guests expect to be inspired by when they set up their easels in the Kenyan wilderness?
Kenya has a huge array of wildlife, from the charismatic mega fauna to the little creepy crawlies, which I also love, if not equally as much. The variety of colour in the landscape is incredible, from the earthy terracotta tones of the soil, to the bright iridescent blues and pinks of a lilac breasted roller. This trip also offers a unique opportunity to paint with Africa's two largest mountains – Kilimanjaro and Mt Kenya – as a backdrop.

What tips can you offer your fellow artists about how to capture the sights on safari?
My best advice would be to experiment and not to get too bogged down and obsessed with technique. I didn't learn my art from books. I sat sketching in my room, in the back of a Landrover, in airport lounges, etc. Free up your hand, and try to get to grips with what your subject looks like from all angles.

Martin by an elephant mural he painted in Ghana

What artistic activities do you have lined up for the trip?
I would like the guests to have a big say in how they want to experience their time spent amongst Kenya's wildlife. I will be on hand to offer advice, but the best way to draw and paint wildlife is to sit for several hours and really soak in your surroundings. I will arrange informal tutorials during the days, focusing on a wide range of things, such as techniques for drawing fur, feathers, eyes, whatever it may be. However, I will also be around to spend time with people on a more personal level to discuss works and offer guidance.

What do you expect will catch your eye on this trip to Africa?
I'll see what grabs me when I'm there. I'm looking forward to peering under rocks and regressing several years! I can never tire of watching animals in their natural setting. To see wild dogs in the wild again would be a real treat.

There are still places available on this one-off art safari, which runs from June 23 – July 5. Click here for full details. To book a place or discuss the tour in more detail, call our guide for the safari, Terry Brownbill (based in the UK) on +44 208 244 0767 or +44 7775 511058 (mobile).

Lake Masek in January ‘better than the Great Migration’

By Terry Brownbill

Cheetahs seen at Lake Masek

It is where wildebeest, hartebeest, zebra and lions congregate in vast numbers to give birth in anticipation of the Great Migration, which begins sometime in April/May depending on the weather.

The exclusive eco Lake Masek Tented Camp has been open for just a year and the 20 tents overlooking the soda lake are stunningly luxurious. The wonderful food and cheerful staff at this secluded camp were exceptional.

In January and February the camp is surrounded by millions of animals. It is truly awe-inspiring to see lines of wildebeest stretching across the horizon in every direction.

A cheetah teaching its young to hunt

With such concentrations of animals, the opportunity to see predators in action on our doorstep was a daily spectacle. On our first game drive we saw seven cheetahs, which included a mother and three adolescent cubs being given a lesson in hunting. This consisted of mum catching, but not killing, a Thompson’s gazelle and then letting it go for her cubs to chase and dispatch, which they did within 10 metres of our vehicle after a prolonged chase (see pictures).

Lions learning to climb trees

We spent a marvellous few hours watching a group of more than 10 bat-eared foxes playing and sunning themselves. A rare treat indeed as they are normally nocturnal. We were also lucky to be able to watch two rare and secretive honey badgers.

We were spectators to a running battle over three days between a pack of 13 hyenas and a pride of three female lions and three adolescents. We were privileged to witness lions learning to climb trees – the first time they had been seen doing so in the area. Initially, they fled up trees with hyenas snapping at their heels, but over a five-day period we photographed them becoming increasingly accomplished tree-climbers (see pictures).

Hyenas spotted at Lake Masek

The Lake Masek area is the ideal place to see millions of animals gathering for the Great Migration. The wildlife spectacle is every bit as impressive as the migration itself, perhaps even more so because we had it pretty much to ourselves. Lake Masek in January is also a wonderful place to escape the winter in North America and Europe.

Terry will be joining forces with artist Martin Aveling to guide our Painting Safari which runs from June 23rd – July 5th 2011. There are still places left on this special safari, so if you'd like to develop your artistic talents in some of Africa's most inspiring settings, please get in touch. For more details, click here.