Tag: Kenya

Africa is Opening More and More

Posted on by James

It’s certainly been a rough year-and-a-half for the travel fundis, and for the industry as a whole. Confined at home for months, then confined to your home country, and even eighteen months in, many of you have been told that a mandatory two-week quarantine period will be enforced as soon as you return home from your overseas sojourn. Not appealing, we know!


But the light at the end of the tunnel is growing brighter and brighter, as seemingly each week another country in Africa opens up for travel. Most of the more prominent safari destinations have fallen off international red lists, regulations are easing all over the world, vaccinations have been rolled out, and although things certainly aren’t fully back to normal, there is an air of normalcy in the air that is making us more excited than we’ve been for a long time to fully welcome international visitors to African shores once more.

Kenya was recently struck off the international red list, visitors from the UK no longer have to quarantine upon their return from South Africa, and Rwanda and its gorillas is easier to visit than it has been for a long, long time. We’ve stated it before, but want to repeat that there literally is no better time to satisfy your travel cravings than right now. Many safari operators are offering insane discounts, popular areas are still quiet, and the strict covid guidelines that have made many people reluctant to venture overseas are enforced so efficiently that being out in the wilds on safari is actually pretty much the safest place to be right now, if any lingering doubts about Covid still remain.

We currently have many guests travelling with us, and without an exception the feedback has been the wonderful tranquility, the soothing of the soul by being back in the wild after so long, and the exclusive feel of almost every lodge given the current reduced occupancies. It’s a bit of an internal dilemma; wishing for business to return to how it it was as soon as possible, but also relishing in the quiet times that are currently greeting every visitor to the bush.

If you want to experience world class game viewing, relax on a beach in a Mozambiquan archipelago, or enjoy the sights and sounds of South Africa’s Mother City Cape Town, don’t wait! The light at the end of the tunnel is certainly approaching, but for the traveller that light is likely to be accompanied by higher occupancies and back-to-normal prices.

Incredible value in safari has never been easier to come by than now.

Get in touch…

Kicheche Safari Camps: Hidden Gems in a Huge Landscape

Posted on by James

Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem is subdivided into a number of areas; the Mara Triangle in the west which forms the edge of the grasslands where it rises up into the Oloololo escarpment, the Maasai Mara National Reserve, which has its own private camps and is where public vehicles can access too, and on the norther edge, a number of conservancies, which operate in conjunction with local communities and traditional pastoralists.

All sections are unfenced and open to each other, allowing free movement of wildlife.

Although not receiving as much press as the sectors to the south, the northern conservancies boast just as spectacular game viewing, if not more so, as well as operating with far fewer vehicles in a sighting. And it is in these areas, prolific with wildlife, that you find the Kicheche camps.

Valley Camp in the Naboisho conservancy is tucked discreetly away in acacia woodland on a hillside, and it is not uncommon to see 20 different cheetahs in a week’s stay here. In the west, Kicheche Mara Camp is in the Mara North conservancy, where world-famous Leopard Gorge is to be found and where so many iconic wildlife documentaries have been filmed.
And in the middle sits Kicheche Bush Camp, set back in the tree-line alongside an expansive grassy plain. This is the lurking ground of the leopard Fig, who featured prominently in the National Geographic Documentary “Jade Eyed Leopard”.

All three camps are small enough to retain that sense of intimacy with guests, in which you don’t feel like a number, but part of things. Valley and Bush Camp have only six tents each, while Mara Camp is only slightly bigger with eight.
Many of the guides have been with Kicheche for well over a decade, and their experience shows in their intimate knowledge of the area. This is especially true when it comes to photography, and Kicheche is ultimately a photographer’s dream. Open skylines, an abundance of wildlife, lion numbers like you wouldn’t believe… combine this with the specially adapted Kicheche photographic vehicles and guides who understand everything from backlighting to depth of field, and you couldn’t ask for anything more, except maybe a memory card or two, as yours are sure to fill up given the prolific number of photographic opportunities.

Kicheche gets it right in the “feeling”; that intangible sense that you are somewhere that you ought to be. That synergy of all the smaller details that can seem so formulaic on paper yet is so difficult to achieve in reality. It’s the staff, the accommodation, the wildlife, the setting. It’s all of them yet none of them.
It’s an ever-elusive element that very few destinations produce, yet Kicheche have, through their own secret formula, got it right…

 

 

 

5 Things you MUST Know About the Great Migration

Posted on by James

Although “great migration” sounds fairly generic and could refer to any mass of living creatures moving between areas in response to environmental change, in an African context, it refers to one thing specifically, and that is the wildebeest migration of Kenya and Tanzania.

Well over a million of these antelope (yes, they are antelope) move in a big clockwise circle through the year, following the rains between the southern Serengeti in Tanzania, up to the Mara Triangle in south-west Kenya, then swinging south again to calve once more near Lake Ndutu and the surrounding plains. It is truly one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

On many photographers’ and safari-goers buckets lists, the great migration is highly accessible to travellers, but before deciding where or when to go, there are a few things to consider:

It Moves

This first point may seem obvious, it being a migration and all, but the key thing to remember is that the huge herd/s is/are never in the same area for more than a couple of months. The cycle they follow, the depletion of resources and the renewal of resources elsewhere keeps them on the move, so that it is vital to know exactly at what point in their journey the wildebeest are at what time of year in order to plan your safari. There is no point booking a safari along the Mara River in Kenya when the herds are hundreds of miles away in Tanzania. Be informed as to where the herds are, and you are in for the experience of a lifetime.

It Has Specific Points of Interest

The river crossings tend to be the highlight of the migration, and the main reason people want to see it, but they certainly aren’t the only thing the migration offers. Specific times of the year offer specific behaviours; February for instance, sees the herds at the southern end of their migration, in the lush areas around Ndutu in the southern Serengeti, which is where the cows calve most of their young. An estimated 8000 calves are born a day during the peak of the birthing period, and as a result, predator encounters are rife at this time of year. You won’t see the dramatic river crossings during this period, but what you do see is in many ways equally spectacular.

It Changes Year to Year

Although one can say with a fair amount of certainty which part of the migration the wildebeest are going to be in in which month, seasonal variations in rainfall and grazing may well mean the herds are slightly ahead of or behind their projected location in any given year. Exact routes of the migration may also vary, and the great herd may well be further west in one year than it was the year before, and further east the next year.

It is an Emotional Experience

Few people witness the Great Migration and feel the same way about wildlife afterwards. It is an utterly breath-taking, awe-inspiring, moving experience that can leave you feeling completely drained after a prolonged sighting. Watching a group of 30 000 animals surging across the Mara River, fighting desperately to reach the other bank where a pride of lions may well be lying in wait, each wildebeest struggling – often in vain – to avoid the jaws of the enormous crocodiles that lie dormant for most of the year simply waiting for the annual return of the herds, is something no photograph or video can accurately capture the experience of.

It’s NOT the Only Reason to Visit

Whilst the wildebeests’ annual movements are certainly up there as most people’s main reason for visiting this part of the world, the beauty of the Serengeti/Masai Mara ecosystem is that it is a phenomenal wildlife destination whether the herds are around or not. The wildebeest migrate (accompanied by a quarter of a million zebra), but the large predators (who are largely territorial) and the rest of the antelope inhabitants do not, meaning there is a constant wildlife presence across the grasslands when the wildebeest have moved on. The big cats in particular are seemingly everywhere (over 3000 lions inhabit the Serengeti – reportedly Africa’s largest population), and each rocky outcrop or termite mound should be scrutinised for the tell-tale sign of a pair of ears sticking up above the skyline.
The open plains of East Africa is one of the greatest wildlife destinations on earth, even if there was no migration.

Our Iconic Africa consultants have a number of spectacular camps that we recommend in both Tanzania and Kenya from which you can gain access to the migration, so if this is a trip you are considering, or you just want to find out a bit more, be sure to visit our enquiries page…

 

 

The Best Lion Viewing Destinations in Africa

Posted on by James

Lions are one of, if not the, main reason people travel from all around the world to partake in an African safari. Apex predators in every environment they inhabit, they are the epitome of the wild nature of the continent itself.
Sadly, the reality is that over the last century, lion numbers across Africa have dramatically declined, primarily because of human encroachment and the subsequent loss of habitat for the big cats. Yet in major game reserves in a number of countries, their populations are stable if not recovering.
And lion viewing in one part of Africa may be very different to another.
Here then are our 5 suggested lion viewing destinations, chosen for their variety…

A lioness in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater

Serengeti/Masai Mara

For sheer numbers and scale, the great open plains of East Africa simply have no equal. Apart from the huge herds of wildebeest that make their way through the ecosystem as part of the Great Migration each year, every other animal seems dwarfed by vastness of these grasslands, the king of beasts included.

The scale of the landscape is what makes much of East Africa’s lion viewing special.

The contiguous Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems boast roughly 4000 lions between them, and unlike the wildebeest herds that move between the two in a great loop, the lions – being territorial – are around all year, meaning viewing is constant and incredibly varied depending on which season you are in.

You won’t ever forget viewing lions with the endless grasslands of Africa stretching out to infinity behind them…

Duba Plains

Situated right up in the north of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Duba Plains became famous a few years ago for the specialised lion prides inhabiting the area, that had learnt the knack of using the Okavango’s myriad water channels to hunt buffalo.
Huge cats, developing much thicker than normal upper body muscles from wading through the water courses, these lions use special tactics to isolate individual buffalos – even the big bulls – and drive them into the water where the bovines’ manoeuvrability and ability to defend themselves is greatly reduced

Duba Plains lions face down their eternal enemy. Photograph courtesy Leigh Kemp
The lions of Botswana’s northern waterways have learnt to use the channels to their advantage. Photograph courtesy Ed French.

There is of course no guarantee of witnessing such amazing buffalo/lion interaction, but for idyllic habitat and lions that have the know-how, look no further than this destination for your lion fix.

Sabi Sand Reserve

South Africa’s world famous wildlife reserve in the north-east of the country is essentially the big cat viewing destination against which all others are measured.
Not only does it boast a particularly high density of both lions and leopards (the leopard population is reputedly the densest in Africa), but the guides have an intimate knowledge of the prides and the individuals they contain. This means that sightings take on a life of their own as it isn’t just lions you’re viewing; it’s these lions…
Individual life stories and entire family trees are accessible through the guides and trackers, so even a sleeping cat can become the most fascinating creature on earth as its trials and tribulations are revealed to you.

Cubs like this will be known to local guides and trackers, and descriptions of the complex make-up of the pride will all be part of the fascinating viewing.

As the Sabi Sand is all privately owned, off-roading is allowed (conditions depending), so one is able to get intimate views of all wildlife, not just the local lion population.

Incredible lion viewing at Londolozi Game Reserve.

Click here to view some of our favourite lodges in the Sabi Sand Reserve…

Ruaha National Park

South-centrally situated in Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is one of only six reserves that can boast a population of over 1000 lions. It is part of the greater Ruaha Landscape, a 50,000 square kilometre section of East Africa that serves as one of the continent’s most important wildlife areas.
Its rugged scenery, prominently featuring the iconic baboab tree, is a haven for predators, particularly in the dry season (May to October), when wildlife centres its activities around the Ruaha River where the remaining water supplies are, and the lions in particular take advantage of the weakened state of the herbivores to hunt along the river fringes.

 

Ruaha is defined by spectacular landscapes…

Although not as well known as its sister reserves further north, Ruaha’s wildlife viewing is just as spectacular in its own right, and a multitude of luxury safari options that generally fly below the radar are available to those wanting a safari a bit more off the beaten track.

North-West Namibia

You are less likely to see lions in this inhospitable part of Southern Africa, but if you do manage to get a sighting (and many of the specialised camps are masters at finding where the roaming prides of desert lions are to be found), it will be like no other you’ve ever had.
Lions plodding their way over soaring sand dunes; lions threading their way along long-dry desert watercourses; lions on the beach…
The uniquely adapted desert lion population of north-west Nambia is highly specialised for their environment.

 

A lioness reclines on a sand dune. An incredibly special sight. Photograph courtesy Wilderness Safaris.

Some hunt the giant desert giraffes, some have been known to hunt seals on the beaches of the aptly named Skeleton coast, and some lions have even been known to eat the desert-growing Tsama melons.

Just a chance to see these unique cats is well worth looking into Namibia as your next safari destination with a difference…

 

A lion pride in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater

The beautiful thing about Africa is its sheer diversity of wildlife offerings. If lion viewing is your main reason for visiting, be sure to get in touch with our sales representatives, and we can start planning your dream lion-viewing safari…

Bringing a Piece of Africa to Atlanta, USA

Posted on by Lexi Hall

“Up in this air you breathed easily, drawing in a vital assurance and lightness of heart. In the highlands you woke up in the morning and thought: Here I am, where I ought to be.” – Karen Blixen, Out of Africa

On 24 September 2019, Angama Mara will partner with Iconic Africa to present an unforgettable and authentic African night of inspiration and entertainment in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, to help raise funds and awareness.

We request your company this September as we bring Africa to Atlanta and display a marvellous exhibition of stunning wildlife photographs from Kenya’s newest photographic competition, The Greatest Maasai Mara Photographer of the Year. For full invite click here. 

The Angama Foundation proudly presents a competition, exhibition and auction which aims to help important conservation programs such as The MAA Trust, Anne K. Taylor Fund, mara elephant project, The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Mara Conservancy: Protecting the Mara Triangle with funds raised.

Let us transport you to an unimaginable part of East Africa and fall in love with the greatest game reserve, wildlife habitat and photography.

The rationale behind this exhibition is to:

  • Promote the beauty of Africa’s Masai Mara
  • Raise awareness of conservation issues
  • Create exposure for many up and coming wildlife photographers
  • Connect potential travellers to East Africa

The evening will include sundowners, an authentic African Braai, and lively African stories around the campfire.

A fantastic holiday at Angama Mara will also be up for auction.

Angama Kenya Iconic Africa Luxury Safaris

Venue:

CAPE DUTCH

1782 Cheshire Bridge, NE, Atlanta, GA, 30324

Contact (404) – 343 0313

Dress Code

Smart casual / restaurant attire

Cost of Ticket

$90.00 – Includes South African sundowner pre-drinks and snacks, African dinner (from a set menu), speakers and African entertainment.

There will be an auction selling an incredible holiday and funds from the proceeds will go to the listed charities

RSVP – Terri Abadi at RSVP@iconicafrica.com or +14 044 322 407

 

Getting to Know Kenya

Posted on by Lexi Hall

Kenya is without a doubt one of the classic bucket-list destinations. The true jewel in this beautiful country is the Masai Mara. Its name derived from the Masai people of the area and Mara, which refers to African jungle. World famous among travellers and photographers, this plain is known for the annual wildebeest migration from Tanzania and offers the best chances to see the Big Five. If you are visiting one of our lodges in the Masai Mara and intend on seeing other parts of Kenya, here is all you need to know about Kenyan history, culture and food.

Tanzania Great Migration Experience East Africa Masaai Mara

The moment you hear the word Kenya, you think of a safari because that’s exactly where the activity of game drives started. The name safari even comes from the Swahili word meaning ‘journey’ or ‘trip’. Not only did safaris originate in Kenya, but civilisation too! The Great Rift Valley is thought to be one of the ‘cradles of life’, and archaeologists working in the valley have found remains of what they speculate are some of the earliest human ancestors.

Kenyans are friendly and hospitable people and have great cultural and etiquette values. An important part of their social and business interaction is greeting. Handshakes and eye contact is customary to build trust and show respect. You won’t go far in this country without being greeted with a warm smile and a hearty “Jambo!”

Bateleur Camp Masaai Mara Kenya Safari Tour

Kenyan culture is a fascinating way of life that amalgamates thousands of year old traditions, social evolution and modern influences. This multifaceted way of life is expressed in different forms, from its people, languages and food to its music and dance and so much more.

Kitenge is a cotton fabric of various tie-dye colours and designs embellished with heavy embroidery. Although it is not accepted as authentic, traditional customary wear, the Maasai wear dark red garments to symbolise their love for the earth and their dependence on it. It also stands for courage and blood that is given to them by nature.

Kenya is not short of beats and rhythms with songs that dig deep into African culture. With the more traditional compositions that use drums and guitars, the variety is endless and fill the airwaves with authentic, yet contemporary sounds such as taarab – inspired by Arab and Indian immigrants.

Kenya is home to over forty different ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, identity and lifestyle. However, Kenya’s national dialect of Swahili and English bridge the communication gap.

Despite numerous ethnic-specific dialects, tribes and nationalities, Kenya is brought together as a single nation through cuisine. Like its people, Kenya’s cuisine has its own distinctive personality. Using native spices and local ingredients, you will discover a burst of flavours and a sense of their heritage in their local dishes.

In 1496 the Portuguese arrived and introduced foods from newly discovered Brazil such as maize, bananas, pineapple, chilies, peppers, sweet potatoes, and cassava. They also brought oranges, lemons, and limes from China and India, as well as pigs.

When the Europeans arrived, they brought with them cucumbers and tomatoes as well as thousands of Indians for labour. This labour force introduced curries, spices, chapattis and relishes which have become part of traditional chakula for many Kenyans.

Here are five delicious Kenyan dishes you should try during your visit to Kenya:

Ugali is the most popular food in Kenya – a staple starch cornmeal made with maize flour – that is often paired with protein dishes.

Pilau is similar to akhni, it is rice flavoured with spices and cooked in stock with meat, chicken or fish.

Kenyan Chapati is Kenyans’ favourite bread that resembles a roti. It is made with white flour, salt and oil and eaten for breakfast with tasty stew or kachumbari.

Mukimo is a popular food in Kenya and served at all major events. A delicacy made with potatoes, peas, corn and onions.

Nyama Choma is a grilled meat and it is barbecued over an open fire and usually eaten with Kachumbari.

Some local delicacies in the city centre include sambusas, corn on the cob, mkate mayai and deep fried yams.

If you are heading into a city centre or smaller town, be sure to use the Boda Boda’s, Piki-Piki’s, and Matatu’s. These are some of the main modes of transport. Boda Bodas are bicycles used to get short distances while Piki-piki’s are motorcycle taxis used to get passengers to destinations in half the time that a car can. Matatus are the cheapest and most efficient way to get around – minibuses are hard to miss with blaring music, custom paint jobs, and neon lights.

Angama Mara East Africa Kenya Safari Tour

For more on some of our most favourite luxurious Kenyan destinations click here.