Spending Christmas
The Festive season is here with us again for the umpteenth time with many choosing to keep the same routine over Christmas, spending it in the same manner. Some spend it with the extended family and if your happen to be Kenyan, you are familiar with the ‘Coasto’ trip (the Coasto trip is a weekend getaway to the Coast region of Kenya more specifically Mombasa). There are others only a handful though, who are only too willing to spend it quietly at home. The reasons for staying home vary with many lacking finances to go for a holiday out of the city or maybe the family has a new born in the house and travelling will be a very tedious process. Whatever the reasons are, it is because of external un- desirable circumstances beyond control that make many choose to stay at home.
This Festive season stay at home and enjoy the silence. One may decide to bake, play with the children, reflect on the year ending or just simply engage yourself in some charity work in the nearby children’s home or retirements home. If you choose to stay home here is a good recipe for a tasty cake which the whole family can bake together with everyone doing something to help in the process.
Gateau Casero
Ingredients
1. 3 Eggs
2. 350 grams of flour
3. 300 grams of sugar
4. 0.25 litres of milk
5. 0.25 litres of oil
6. 2.25 teaspoons of Baking powder
7. 1 rind lemon
8. 50 grams sugar
9. 50 grams peanuts (optional
Method
1. Beat eggs with the sugar until it is creamy then add the oil.
2. Sieve the flour with the baking powder and add the lemon rind
3. Add the flour into the creamy mixture and fold slowly
4. Add the milk and pour into the mixture
5. Put mixture into baking tin. Crush the peanuts into small pieces. Mix with 50 grams of sugar and sprinkle on top.
6. Put in the oven at 360 ยบ for 50 minutes or until ready and brown.
7. Serve with juice after it has cooled for desert.
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Thursday, December 9, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Fun Facts about Africa
Whenever Africa is in the lime light it is all for the wrong reasons, like war, hunger, bad politics or even poverty. Today however, we shall not focus on the negatives instead we shall focus on the natural beauty of the land.
Lake Tanganyika is the deepest lake in Africa reaching a depth of 1,436m / 4,710ft making it the second deepest lake in the world after Lake Baikal in Asia.
Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world and the oldest one in the world to be inhabited by lion, elephant, rhino and other species of wildlife. This is because it is not as dry as other desert and accommodates scattered shrubs and bushes for the africa wildlife’s survival.
The Sahara desert sadly, is expanding at an average speed of 0.8km a month or 0.5miles more so to the south of the desert. The desert currently is located in eleven countries (Tunisia, Mali, Chad, Morocco, Nigeria, Egypt, Sudan, Mauritania, Niger, Libya and Algeria) either fully or partially. Meteorologists say that it receives an average of 8 inches of rainfall yearly which is way below the daily, average water consumption of man.
Lake Malawi contains the largest number of fish species in the world with over 500 species with the Mbuna rock being the most popular in the lake and is a delicacy for many of the fish eaters in the country.
Madagascar is home to the largest numbers of chameleons and their local language has over five names both colloquial and official to refer to the chameleon.
The biggest river in Congo and the only one has enough water to supply the whole of Africa with electricity all year round because it discharges 1,500,000 cubic feet of water into its tributaries that total to nearly 1.5 million square miles. River Congo has a dozen tributaries that run across different parts of the land and it is over 2720 miles or 4,375km making it the fifth longest river in the world after the Amazon, Nile, Mississippi and Volga. The irony of this is that the country is partially electrified with many using other sources of energy but they do export electricity to its neighboring countries as one of their chief exports.
Zambia is home to about three hundred and seventy five ethnic groups spread across the country. It is even keen to note that the country has enjoyed lots of periods of peace, despite these vast cultural diversities.
The Mountain Gorilla is the largest primate found in the continent with a net weight of 200kgs but the animal is rather shy, peaceful and passive as compared to other primate species. Uganda is home to a number of monkey species.
A few African Countries use bird species as their emblems on their flags. Uganda uses the Crane, Zimbabwe which has a great, yellow local Zimbabwean bird as its emblem and this bird represents the many bird species found in the country as well as across the continent.
Finally, Africa is home to one third of the world’s population with majority of the people ever so friendly and ever so helpful to anyone in need.
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Lake Tanganyika is the deepest lake in Africa reaching a depth of 1,436m / 4,710ft making it the second deepest lake in the world after Lake Baikal in Asia.
Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world and the oldest one in the world to be inhabited by lion, elephant, rhino and other species of wildlife. This is because it is not as dry as other desert and accommodates scattered shrubs and bushes for the africa wildlife’s survival.
The Sahara desert sadly, is expanding at an average speed of 0.8km a month or 0.5miles more so to the south of the desert. The desert currently is located in eleven countries (Tunisia, Mali, Chad, Morocco, Nigeria, Egypt, Sudan, Mauritania, Niger, Libya and Algeria) either fully or partially. Meteorologists say that it receives an average of 8 inches of rainfall yearly which is way below the daily, average water consumption of man.
Lake Malawi contains the largest number of fish species in the world with over 500 species with the Mbuna rock being the most popular in the lake and is a delicacy for many of the fish eaters in the country.
Madagascar is home to the largest numbers of chameleons and their local language has over five names both colloquial and official to refer to the chameleon.
The biggest river in Congo and the only one has enough water to supply the whole of Africa with electricity all year round because it discharges 1,500,000 cubic feet of water into its tributaries that total to nearly 1.5 million square miles. River Congo has a dozen tributaries that run across different parts of the land and it is over 2720 miles or 4,375km making it the fifth longest river in the world after the Amazon, Nile, Mississippi and Volga. The irony of this is that the country is partially electrified with many using other sources of energy but they do export electricity to its neighboring countries as one of their chief exports.
Zambia is home to about three hundred and seventy five ethnic groups spread across the country. It is even keen to note that the country has enjoyed lots of periods of peace, despite these vast cultural diversities.
The Mountain Gorilla is the largest primate found in the continent with a net weight of 200kgs but the animal is rather shy, peaceful and passive as compared to other primate species. Uganda is home to a number of monkey species.
A few African Countries use bird species as their emblems on their flags. Uganda uses the Crane, Zimbabwe which has a great, yellow local Zimbabwean bird as its emblem and this bird represents the many bird species found in the country as well as across the continent.
Finally, Africa is home to one third of the world’s population with majority of the people ever so friendly and ever so helpful to anyone in need.
Masai Mara Honeymoon Destinations
The Tortoise
The Tortoise belongs to the Chelonian family as the third member after the turtles and the terrapins. They could be the longest living reptiles in the world and have lived for more than two hundred years having the least evolved traits since then. Their life spans are between fifty to a hundred and fifty years with the oldest one known to live to up to a startling one hundred and fifty two years.
They are cold blooded reptiles and keep warm by absorbing the atmospheres heat. There are about forty types of tortoise species including Yellow tortoise (found in South America), Star tortoise (India), Common Long Neck tortoise (Australia), Kreffts tortoise, Macquarie tortoise among many other species. The largest species of tortoises are found on the Islands of the Pacific Ocean with the Galapagos tortoise being the largest managing to grow at 4.5 feet in length. The smallest on the other hand manage a mere size of one foot.
Most of their species live on land with a few preferring to live in fresh water lakes. A few are even found in desert environs, lakes, lagoons and swamps. In some countries they are kept as pets since they don’t require huge tracts of lands as their habitat or homeland. Their diet includes fruits and shrubs as well as foods rich in Calcium to build their bones just like human beings. Their shell has up to sixty different bones joined together thus explaining the reason why they need a lot of calcium rich foods. The incubation period for eggs is between three to four months and stay on the ground for two months burrowing into the ground. This is in contrast to the turtle hatchlings who immediately head for the water after hatching from their eggs.
Their major prey is the leopard and the Jaguar in the U.S islands which is also skilled in knowing how to scoop the creature from its shell, skillfully scooping the contents and swallowing it hole.. The Pancake Tortoise has a soft shell that allows it to deflate when penetrating through small holes in the rocks. Their prey eventually gets tired of stalking them and trying to hunt them from in between the holes.
These animals have been known to be used in many folk tales and traditional stories as being seen as the wise one because perhaps mostly because of their slow nature and their peaceful personalities. They are known to have good eyesight, a wonderful sense of smell and also quick to the sense of touch which makes it hard for them to be hunted down by their enemies. Maybe that is one of the reasons why they are known to be one of the wisest animals alive. There is not much written data however, on their I.Q levels or even regarding their brain size, brain power and giftedness, to prove these tortoise stereotypes that many of these societies have held since time immemorial. Perhaps there is some unwritten truth regarding these stereotypes.
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They are cold blooded reptiles and keep warm by absorbing the atmospheres heat. There are about forty types of tortoise species including Yellow tortoise (found in South America), Star tortoise (India), Common Long Neck tortoise (Australia), Kreffts tortoise, Macquarie tortoise among many other species. The largest species of tortoises are found on the Islands of the Pacific Ocean with the Galapagos tortoise being the largest managing to grow at 4.5 feet in length. The smallest on the other hand manage a mere size of one foot.
Most of their species live on land with a few preferring to live in fresh water lakes. A few are even found in desert environs, lakes, lagoons and swamps. In some countries they are kept as pets since they don’t require huge tracts of lands as their habitat or homeland. Their diet includes fruits and shrubs as well as foods rich in Calcium to build their bones just like human beings. Their shell has up to sixty different bones joined together thus explaining the reason why they need a lot of calcium rich foods. The incubation period for eggs is between three to four months and stay on the ground for two months burrowing into the ground. This is in contrast to the turtle hatchlings who immediately head for the water after hatching from their eggs.
Their major prey is the leopard and the Jaguar in the U.S islands which is also skilled in knowing how to scoop the creature from its shell, skillfully scooping the contents and swallowing it hole.. The Pancake Tortoise has a soft shell that allows it to deflate when penetrating through small holes in the rocks. Their prey eventually gets tired of stalking them and trying to hunt them from in between the holes.
These animals have been known to be used in many folk tales and traditional stories as being seen as the wise one because perhaps mostly because of their slow nature and their peaceful personalities. They are known to have good eyesight, a wonderful sense of smell and also quick to the sense of touch which makes it hard for them to be hunted down by their enemies. Maybe that is one of the reasons why they are known to be one of the wisest animals alive. There is not much written data however, on their I.Q levels or even regarding their brain size, brain power and giftedness, to prove these tortoise stereotypes that many of these societies have held since time immemorial. Perhaps there is some unwritten truth regarding these stereotypes.
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Kiangazi House
This is one of the most beautiful, natural country houses that one may visit while in Naivasha. It is found within a Wildlife corridor connecting the lake shore and environs with Hells Gate National Park and beyond into the Masai land. Ironically its name refers to the dry spell when rains have not rained on to the country. The homely country house is found adjacent to the private twenty thousand acre farm of Oserian Wildlife Sanctuary that comprises of a fascinating diversity of wildlife including White Rhino, Leopard, Cheetah, Buffalo, Giraffe, Grevy Zebra, Oryx and many species of antelope.
Not surprisingly, the house is built in the old traditional style of local stone and timber, with colonial houses designs that comprise of a mixture of English Architecture and African designs. The place is not too big as it only consists of three double bedrooms within the main house and two additional double bedrooms just beyond the swimming pool, all en-suite. Luxurious features in each room, like four-poster beds, lamp lighting as well as an earthly brown themed color is definitely breath taking. Romantic turndowns and freshly cut roses in the lounge, all enhance the personal touch that the staff adds to the house. Within the house, private lounges, a bar and library all with fireplaces are the perfect places to cool off and relax with ones loved ones and friends for an evening chat or round of board games.
The restaurant is known to offer the highest standards of services and of course delicious international cuisine. Spectacular sundowners across the Rift escarpments can be organized by the guest house, and early morning bush breakfasts in the lakeside forests often give guests the chance to view the ubiquitous wildlife that abounds in this dramatic area.
As human being planning is a necessary activity in our lives. Rates are based on full board accommodation and are inclusive of taxes, and are net of holiday supplements it also includes game drives in Hell’s Gate National Park, a visit to the Oserian flower farm, boat trips and fishing on Lake Naivasha, Laundry and bed and breakfast. Your total net will come to around and average of thirteen hundred dollars; with the prices ranging from one thousand to sixteen hundred dollars for a one week stay (if one is engaging in all of these activities). However rates change depending on the tourism season, or the number of travelers in the group that one has organized. The larger the group that you have organized for camp, the better. Also if one requires special care and more requirements, the budget is likely to go up. The Kiangazi house does not permit the booking of children below six years as they require very special care.
The house also offers airlifts into the city and from the city but this is sometimes at a rather expensive fee which takes away the joy of sight seeing the wonderful Rift Valley region when one is driving. Many have never been disappointed with this place but one must be ready to cough up a lot of their savings to visit the place.
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Not surprisingly, the house is built in the old traditional style of local stone and timber, with colonial houses designs that comprise of a mixture of English Architecture and African designs. The place is not too big as it only consists of three double bedrooms within the main house and two additional double bedrooms just beyond the swimming pool, all en-suite. Luxurious features in each room, like four-poster beds, lamp lighting as well as an earthly brown themed color is definitely breath taking. Romantic turndowns and freshly cut roses in the lounge, all enhance the personal touch that the staff adds to the house. Within the house, private lounges, a bar and library all with fireplaces are the perfect places to cool off and relax with ones loved ones and friends for an evening chat or round of board games.
The restaurant is known to offer the highest standards of services and of course delicious international cuisine. Spectacular sundowners across the Rift escarpments can be organized by the guest house, and early morning bush breakfasts in the lakeside forests often give guests the chance to view the ubiquitous wildlife that abounds in this dramatic area.
As human being planning is a necessary activity in our lives. Rates are based on full board accommodation and are inclusive of taxes, and are net of holiday supplements it also includes game drives in Hell’s Gate National Park, a visit to the Oserian flower farm, boat trips and fishing on Lake Naivasha, Laundry and bed and breakfast. Your total net will come to around and average of thirteen hundred dollars; with the prices ranging from one thousand to sixteen hundred dollars for a one week stay (if one is engaging in all of these activities). However rates change depending on the tourism season, or the number of travelers in the group that one has organized. The larger the group that you have organized for camp, the better. Also if one requires special care and more requirements, the budget is likely to go up. The Kiangazi house does not permit the booking of children below six years as they require very special care.
The house also offers airlifts into the city and from the city but this is sometimes at a rather expensive fee which takes away the joy of sight seeing the wonderful Rift Valley region when one is driving. Many have never been disappointed with this place but one must be ready to cough up a lot of their savings to visit the place.
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Jamhuri Day Celebrations
Jamhuri day celebrations are here with us again as Kenyans who are very eager to celebrate forty six years of internal self rule. Some people see the holiday as a relief from the hectic work schedules with others sighing that the week is less a day since the Kenya holiday happens to be on Sunday and will eventually spill over to Monday. While other people see it as another day to run up- country to visit the extended family back home. Whatever your plans, many do not consider it a day for practicing their patriotic duties that include nation building activities and events. The most one may do as a patriotic activity will be to attend the half day celebrations at Uhuru park of Nyayo stadium as they listen to dignitaries and honorable men and women recounting speeches on National unity and cohesion.
As a tourists or even Kenyan you are not aware what is all this hullaballoo regarding this revered Jamhuri day. Many Kenyans do consider it an important day in the calendar. Here are a few facts on the day: This celebrated day is associated with Dedan Kimathi one of the most heroic Mau Mau fighters during the colonial period. However he passed on earlier and was unable to see that fruitful day for the country as it was on of his greatest ambitions.
Kenya’s first Jamhuri day celebrations were in the year 1963 when the colonial government released itself totally form the country and Kenya acquired its new status of becoming a republic. The Union Jack (British flag) was lowered as the Kenyan flag was let to fly up in the sky. It is similar to the heroes day that is marked in the United States of America where the likes of Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks are celebrated.
The Late Jomo Kenyatta was at last recognized as the country’s president to the New Republic of Kenya. There was ululation and jubilations from the people of Kenya who were more than elated to the fact that they were now free. All sorts of fireworks lit up in the air. A new government was then formed consisting of Kenyan ministers, parliamentarians and permanent secretaries form across the country representing the diverse ethnic groups in the country. This day later led to creation of new boundaries in the country to represent the different regions in the region. Many of these boundaries are still in use up until today.
For many of the celebrations over the years, the re- current theme has been on national peace and cohesion and to continue reminding the people on the importance of peace in a diverse nation such as Kenya. They say music is the universal language for people thus many songs and dances are organized to entertain people throughout the day. Important local artists like Suzanne Owiyo, Eric Wainaina and Rufftone sing their songs in praise of peace and of the country.
Other Kenyans prefer having a quiet afternoon with the family or visiting national parks which are opened for them. These national parks are avenues for people to remember the natural beauty that the country is blessed with. How do you enjoy your Jamhuri day? Share with us so that we too may get a few ideas of enjoying the day.
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As a tourists or even Kenyan you are not aware what is all this hullaballoo regarding this revered Jamhuri day. Many Kenyans do consider it an important day in the calendar. Here are a few facts on the day: This celebrated day is associated with Dedan Kimathi one of the most heroic Mau Mau fighters during the colonial period. However he passed on earlier and was unable to see that fruitful day for the country as it was on of his greatest ambitions.
Kenya’s first Jamhuri day celebrations were in the year 1963 when the colonial government released itself totally form the country and Kenya acquired its new status of becoming a republic. The Union Jack (British flag) was lowered as the Kenyan flag was let to fly up in the sky. It is similar to the heroes day that is marked in the United States of America where the likes of Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks are celebrated.
The Late Jomo Kenyatta was at last recognized as the country’s president to the New Republic of Kenya. There was ululation and jubilations from the people of Kenya who were more than elated to the fact that they were now free. All sorts of fireworks lit up in the air. A new government was then formed consisting of Kenyan ministers, parliamentarians and permanent secretaries form across the country representing the diverse ethnic groups in the country. This day later led to creation of new boundaries in the country to represent the different regions in the region. Many of these boundaries are still in use up until today.
For many of the celebrations over the years, the re- current theme has been on national peace and cohesion and to continue reminding the people on the importance of peace in a diverse nation such as Kenya. They say music is the universal language for people thus many songs and dances are organized to entertain people throughout the day. Important local artists like Suzanne Owiyo, Eric Wainaina and Rufftone sing their songs in praise of peace and of the country.
Other Kenyans prefer having a quiet afternoon with the family or visiting national parks which are opened for them. These national parks are avenues for people to remember the natural beauty that the country is blessed with. How do you enjoy your Jamhuri day? Share with us so that we too may get a few ideas of enjoying the day.
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Elsamere Hotel and Conservation Centre
Elsamere hotel is a great haven for lovers of nature which consists of the lush green vegetation during the rainy season or the dry savanna grasslands when the rains have decided to go on strike. The hotel is set in the Acacia forest on the banks of the Lake Naivasha in Kenya's Rift Valley. It is apparently the former home of the late Joy Adamson who, together with her husband George, became the world’s most famous couple for their pioneering conservation work and relationship with the lioness Elsa. Joy eventually wrote a book which became a best seller and it was subsequently casted into a film both titled, 'Born Free'. The main reason for staying in this centre is to be involved with conservation projects in regards to endangered species like the lions, birds like the Verraux's Owl, turtles as well as some species of monkeys such as the black and white colobus monkeys. To make this a learner friendly atmosphere, the cottage has several rooms left aside for classrooms for school children and company employees to learn about the joys of nature.
The center is rather small providing accommodation of between 15-18 people in several cottages set in the gardens around the main house. Each of these cottages has a veranda with rooms that are bright, spacious as well as attractive to any beholders eye; further more, they all have ensuite bathrooms. One of the rooms in the main house it built appropriately for the physically challenged with a wheel chair provision and ramp to comfortable maneuver through the various floors of the cottage.
Elsamere is best known for its warm hospitality and home like atmosphere that is felt immediately one enters the hotel. Lunch is more often served in buffet style with plenty of outdoor tables and chairs for alfresco dining for the guests to have a total natural experience. Dinner is hosted each night and it is the perfect opportunity to get to know the guests, many of who may tend to be visiting researchers and conservationists from all over Kenya and the European countries. Interestingly, Elsamere is open to the public day between 3pm and 6pm everyday. Visitors are invited to watch a video, visit the museum and shop in the business centre found in the cottage. A traditional afternoon tea is served at 4pm which is typically a British practice. The museum contains a small collection of Joy Adamson's painting and artifacts which are quite many since painting was a favorite hobby of hers, memorabilia from the Born Free film are also displayed in the museum; alongside, lots of documented tapes on Joy and George Adamson's work with wildlife.
While there one is not confined to the walls of the centre instead, one can hire boats or arrange a guided tour to view birds and other wildlife on the nearby Crescent Island that is not too far from centre. Lake Naivasha can also be a hot spot for tourists to enjoy the various kinds of birds along the lake.
This is a different kind of touring adventure from the usual sunbathing and is bound to leave you feel wanting more.
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The center is rather small providing accommodation of between 15-18 people in several cottages set in the gardens around the main house. Each of these cottages has a veranda with rooms that are bright, spacious as well as attractive to any beholders eye; further more, they all have ensuite bathrooms. One of the rooms in the main house it built appropriately for the physically challenged with a wheel chair provision and ramp to comfortable maneuver through the various floors of the cottage.
Elsamere is best known for its warm hospitality and home like atmosphere that is felt immediately one enters the hotel. Lunch is more often served in buffet style with plenty of outdoor tables and chairs for alfresco dining for the guests to have a total natural experience. Dinner is hosted each night and it is the perfect opportunity to get to know the guests, many of who may tend to be visiting researchers and conservationists from all over Kenya and the European countries. Interestingly, Elsamere is open to the public day between 3pm and 6pm everyday. Visitors are invited to watch a video, visit the museum and shop in the business centre found in the cottage. A traditional afternoon tea is served at 4pm which is typically a British practice. The museum contains a small collection of Joy Adamson's painting and artifacts which are quite many since painting was a favorite hobby of hers, memorabilia from the Born Free film are also displayed in the museum; alongside, lots of documented tapes on Joy and George Adamson's work with wildlife.
While there one is not confined to the walls of the centre instead, one can hire boats or arrange a guided tour to view birds and other wildlife on the nearby Crescent Island that is not too far from centre. Lake Naivasha can also be a hot spot for tourists to enjoy the various kinds of birds along the lake.
This is a different kind of touring adventure from the usual sunbathing and is bound to leave you feel wanting more.
Luxury Lodges Maasai Mara
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Water –Buck Hotel
This hotel is situated in Nakuru town particularly on Biashara road that connects to the bigger Nakuru west road. The journey takes an average of a one hour drive from the city center as it is only thirty kilometers from the city on Nairobi. However a few tour guide offer airlifts to the hotel that has an air pad landing area.
This is known as one of the best hotels in Nakuru town. It was designed with an African theme in mind with African colors filling the entire hotel. These colors range from a deep, earthly red- brown to a warm orange sun like color that just seems to light up the mood and atmosphere of the entire place. The deep red- brown color helps to portray the rich, fertile African soil while the orange is a sign of the African sun and the warm nature of the Kenyan people. The red is also a symbol for the Maasai people in the land who are the S.I unit for the Kenyan people all over the world. Most pictures always show the Maasai Moran posing in a picture dressed in his red attire. It is also true to say that the Maasai people are one of the few communities in the country who still uphold many of the cultural rights and artifacts as compared to the other communities. However the Maasai are not the majority of people in the country.
The Water – Buck hotel is duly situated on the highlands of Nakuru over- looking the Thompsons Falls that are the most magnificent water falls around. The water can be seen falling from a height of fifty meters or so while forming a smoky and also mysterious to the entire scenery.
The fifty rooms of the hotel are lavishly furnished with comfortable and elegant furniture. The rooms are a combination of both double and single rooms (each room is en- suite) to suit the vast requirements of their clients. Both rooms are also fitted with warm showers, a personal butler attached to every room, wonderful room service as well as a telephone with unlimited calls to be made. The icing on the cake is that the rooms are also fitted with television sets (DSTV enabled) so that the client is able to keep abreast with local and international events while still on holiday.
Among the other facilities that are part of the Water- Buck hotel are a swimming pool, court yard as well as a gym and spa to relax the muscles after a hard day of sight seeing.
Lastly each room is fitted with a balcony to overlook the expansive Rift valley area. Tourists are often seen relaxing in the verandahs of the balconies as they enjoy the cool evening breeze as they sip tasty wine while they watch in awe the beautiful Rift Valley escarpment. Averagely the food is well cooked but it does not offer the extra- ordinary cuisines from Italy and the rest but none the less, the services are professionally done and that would somehow explain why the prices for food range between two thousand to three thousand shillings per plate.
Masai Mara Destinations
This is known as one of the best hotels in Nakuru town. It was designed with an African theme in mind with African colors filling the entire hotel. These colors range from a deep, earthly red- brown to a warm orange sun like color that just seems to light up the mood and atmosphere of the entire place. The deep red- brown color helps to portray the rich, fertile African soil while the orange is a sign of the African sun and the warm nature of the Kenyan people. The red is also a symbol for the Maasai people in the land who are the S.I unit for the Kenyan people all over the world. Most pictures always show the Maasai Moran posing in a picture dressed in his red attire. It is also true to say that the Maasai people are one of the few communities in the country who still uphold many of the cultural rights and artifacts as compared to the other communities. However the Maasai are not the majority of people in the country.
The Water – Buck hotel is duly situated on the highlands of Nakuru over- looking the Thompsons Falls that are the most magnificent water falls around. The water can be seen falling from a height of fifty meters or so while forming a smoky and also mysterious to the entire scenery.
The fifty rooms of the hotel are lavishly furnished with comfortable and elegant furniture. The rooms are a combination of both double and single rooms (each room is en- suite) to suit the vast requirements of their clients. Both rooms are also fitted with warm showers, a personal butler attached to every room, wonderful room service as well as a telephone with unlimited calls to be made. The icing on the cake is that the rooms are also fitted with television sets (DSTV enabled) so that the client is able to keep abreast with local and international events while still on holiday.
Among the other facilities that are part of the Water- Buck hotel are a swimming pool, court yard as well as a gym and spa to relax the muscles after a hard day of sight seeing.
Lastly each room is fitted with a balcony to overlook the expansive Rift valley area. Tourists are often seen relaxing in the verandahs of the balconies as they enjoy the cool evening breeze as they sip tasty wine while they watch in awe the beautiful Rift Valley escarpment. Averagely the food is well cooked but it does not offer the extra- ordinary cuisines from Italy and the rest but none the less, the services are professionally done and that would somehow explain why the prices for food range between two thousand to three thousand shillings per plate.
Masai Mara Destinations
Merica Hotel
Merica hotel is part of the bigger Merica group of hotels that has other hotels scattered in the Rift Valley, the Mara as well as other parts of the country. The hotel rates four star meaning that it is yet to be considered a first class, elegant hotel. This not with standing, the staff and personnel of the hotel are only too willing to offer first class professional services to its clients. The hotel is best known for its lush gardens that are often used as venues for picture taking for recent newly weds, since the scenery is too beautiful to ignore. The compound is just an inviting gesture into the hotel whose yellow and brown theme are an inviting gesture to guests; the theme also creates a relaxing ambiance for those needing a relaxing ambiance to walk into at the end of the day.
The hotel is known by locals for its unique ostrich resort that seeks to promote bird watching activities in the region and edutainment as well to its eager touring visitors. The ostrich have the biggest eggs of all among the bird species and it is no wonder that the ostrich eggs is offered as a breakfast item in its breakfast menu. They say that their eggs are the rich in magnesium nutrients for the building and strengthening of bones for the human body.
There is a bouquet of adventurous packages that the Merica hotel offers to the tourists that includes all sorts of spicy adventures and explorations in the Nakuru region as well as the expansive Mara region. It also has two exclusive board rooms/ conference rooms to cater for business needs of the client. If you are seeking an African gate- away into the wild wild safari, look no further, Merica is the best place for you. Perhaps you have told your beloved people that you are visiting Nakuru for the first time or Kenya for that matter and they have requested a few souvenirs to take back home, Merica has a well stocked curio shop that has all sorts of African carvings, paintings and a variety of unique sea shells. Even when your supplies are out of stock, don’t fret over it, the hotel also has a business centre with all kinds of quality supplies for you.
The attractions near the hotel are Lake Nakuru, the Lake Nakuru National park, and Nguba farm that happens to be a conservancy catering for sick and abandoned birds. Lake Bogoria is not too far from the hotel. The biggest of all Kenya attractions is Lake Elementaita, the biggest fresh water lake in the Rift valley escarpment. The Lake is also famous for the hordes of pink flamingo birds that parade themselves majestically along the shores of the lake. Merica also offers mountaineering activities for individuals, couples and groups on the dormant Menengai peak. The Mountain is known for its famous crater at the top that is about half a kilometer deep.
The hotel food prices range from about eight hundred shilling to fifteen hundred shillings which a fair price is considering that it has a variety of dishes on its menu that are common in the country and overseas to cater to a variety of individual taste buds of both its local and foreign clientele.
Masai Mara Adventures
The hotel is known by locals for its unique ostrich resort that seeks to promote bird watching activities in the region and edutainment as well to its eager touring visitors. The ostrich have the biggest eggs of all among the bird species and it is no wonder that the ostrich eggs is offered as a breakfast item in its breakfast menu. They say that their eggs are the rich in magnesium nutrients for the building and strengthening of bones for the human body.
There is a bouquet of adventurous packages that the Merica hotel offers to the tourists that includes all sorts of spicy adventures and explorations in the Nakuru region as well as the expansive Mara region. It also has two exclusive board rooms/ conference rooms to cater for business needs of the client. If you are seeking an African gate- away into the wild wild safari, look no further, Merica is the best place for you. Perhaps you have told your beloved people that you are visiting Nakuru for the first time or Kenya for that matter and they have requested a few souvenirs to take back home, Merica has a well stocked curio shop that has all sorts of African carvings, paintings and a variety of unique sea shells. Even when your supplies are out of stock, don’t fret over it, the hotel also has a business centre with all kinds of quality supplies for you.
The attractions near the hotel are Lake Nakuru, the Lake Nakuru National park, and Nguba farm that happens to be a conservancy catering for sick and abandoned birds. Lake Bogoria is not too far from the hotel. The biggest of all Kenya attractions is Lake Elementaita, the biggest fresh water lake in the Rift valley escarpment. The Lake is also famous for the hordes of pink flamingo birds that parade themselves majestically along the shores of the lake. Merica also offers mountaineering activities for individuals, couples and groups on the dormant Menengai peak. The Mountain is known for its famous crater at the top that is about half a kilometer deep.
The hotel food prices range from about eight hundred shilling to fifteen hundred shillings which a fair price is considering that it has a variety of dishes on its menu that are common in the country and overseas to cater to a variety of individual taste buds of both its local and foreign clientele.
Masai Mara Adventures
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Naivasha
Naivasha is a little known Kenyan town in the expansive Rift Valley region that is famous for having a number of wonderful sites but hardly known by international tourist with many preferring to explore the western region. The town lies North West of Nairobi city and it is about a one and a half hour journey from the city centre and about a two hour journey form the Jomo Kenyatta airport. This not being a hindrance to marketing the region, many local tour operators offer tourists great vacation packages for the local tourists who have exploited these opportunities. But why do local tourists enjoy the views of this small township?
Naivasha is part of the expansive Nakuru District with the town enjoying an urban population of 20,000 people as per the 2009 census that took place in the country. Most of these inhabitants rely on agriculture and horticulture for their livelihoods and with the recent expansion of infrastructure (roads) in the region it has opened doors to trading as another means to their livelihoods. This in turn has improved the lives of these people by far allowing for expansion of educational facilities as well as social amenities. Naivasha is known to produce world-class fruit, vegetables and flowers for export to Europe, Asia the Americas and of course other African countries in the African region.
Hell's Gate National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country alongside Longonot National Park and Mount Longonot is nearby attractions in the Naivasha area. Tours also have included Lake Naivasha, for tourists to observe birdlife and hippopotamus behavior, as well as other wild animals. Among the hotels and lodges found in the area are the Lake Naivasha Country club, Kiangazi house, Loldia House and the Naivasha hotel (which was previously known as Lake Hotel) among other popular hotels. Also near the region is the Crescent Island that is a hub for fishing with the Tilapias, Bass and Cat fish breeding in plenty.
Among the lakes in this region are: the fresh water Lake Naivasha known for its vast numbers of pink flamingoes at the shores of the lake and also Lake Bogoria. The Menengai Crater which is a dormant mountain is also a great attraction to this region. This Crater is a great team building sight and its ascent is pretty exciting and fairly easy with the reward of the ascent being a lush, green view of the area.
During the peak season for flower exportations, the flower farms are laden with magnificent variety of flowers from which the sight is just enchanting for anybody. These flowers include daffodils, marigolds, lilies, tulips, all kinds of roses and violets among many other flower varieties in the market.
The Town also has very friendly people who are only too willing to help you if you do get lost in the region trying to look for your favorite relaxing destination. Those who have sampled the hotels and restaurants say that their services are up to speed with them only too willing to please the customer.
Masai Mara Honeymoon Stays
Naivasha is part of the expansive Nakuru District with the town enjoying an urban population of 20,000 people as per the 2009 census that took place in the country. Most of these inhabitants rely on agriculture and horticulture for their livelihoods and with the recent expansion of infrastructure (roads) in the region it has opened doors to trading as another means to their livelihoods. This in turn has improved the lives of these people by far allowing for expansion of educational facilities as well as social amenities. Naivasha is known to produce world-class fruit, vegetables and flowers for export to Europe, Asia the Americas and of course other African countries in the African region.
Hell's Gate National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country alongside Longonot National Park and Mount Longonot is nearby attractions in the Naivasha area. Tours also have included Lake Naivasha, for tourists to observe birdlife and hippopotamus behavior, as well as other wild animals. Among the hotels and lodges found in the area are the Lake Naivasha Country club, Kiangazi house, Loldia House and the Naivasha hotel (which was previously known as Lake Hotel) among other popular hotels. Also near the region is the Crescent Island that is a hub for fishing with the Tilapias, Bass and Cat fish breeding in plenty.
Among the lakes in this region are: the fresh water Lake Naivasha known for its vast numbers of pink flamingoes at the shores of the lake and also Lake Bogoria. The Menengai Crater which is a dormant mountain is also a great attraction to this region. This Crater is a great team building sight and its ascent is pretty exciting and fairly easy with the reward of the ascent being a lush, green view of the area.
During the peak season for flower exportations, the flower farms are laden with magnificent variety of flowers from which the sight is just enchanting for anybody. These flowers include daffodils, marigolds, lilies, tulips, all kinds of roses and violets among many other flower varieties in the market.
The Town also has very friendly people who are only too willing to help you if you do get lost in the region trying to look for your favorite relaxing destination. Those who have sampled the hotels and restaurants say that their services are up to speed with them only too willing to please the customer.
Masai Mara Honeymoon Stays
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Squirrel
If you are in any part of a Kenyan wildlife park, you are likely to come across these cheeky animals that are quite small in size but can turn out to be very dangerous when it comes to burrowing and spoiling food crops in farms/ shamba. They have been known to spoil acreages of farm land when they mange to stray away from the inclines of the park areas. But what are these creature all about and do they have any benefits to man?
First and foremost, Squirrels belong to a large family of small or medium-sized rodents called the Sciuridae. The family includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunks, marmots (including woodchucks), flying squirrels, the gray squirrels, the prairie dogs and more than two hundred other species. Squirrels are indigenous to the Americas, Eurasia, and Africa and have been introduced to Australia therefore they are not rare species at all.
These tiny animals that belong to the Sciuridae family, range in size from 5 to 36 inches (13-92 cm) long including their very long and bushy tails. The biggest squirrel is the Indian Giant Squirrel with the smallest species of squirrels being the Gray species that range from 5 to 10 inches and are found in the southern Americas. Baby squirrels are born in nests of about six at a time but only a couple surviving until adult hood. They are blind and hairless at birth like birds for period of two or three months. Females may have several litters in a year, so most squirrel populations are robust and they are certainly not an endangered species.
Squirrels are omnivores in by nature which means that they eat both plants and meat. They eat seeds, nuts, leaves, bulbs, roots, mushrooms, insects, worms, eggs, small birds, and other small animals. Ground squirrels have pouches in their cheeks in which they carry food to their burrow to store hence they are known for burrowing in between food crops and sometimes damaging the roots of tender vegetable shoots and roots. The other kinds of squirrels are the tree and flying squirrels. Flying squirrels don’t fly instead they glide form tree to tree as they extend their furry for limbs to either side.
The most interesting fact about them in which I feel that the squirrel must be respected and appreciated for, is its abilities, especially its grace and acrobatics in the trees. Perhaps no other animal is as quick to disappear as a fleeing squirrel. Once he sees you, nine out of ten times you'll never see the likes of him again. One wonders what is so terribly wrong with them just having to stay in one position for at least five minutes at a time. The advantage of these is the fact that they eat away insects that love eating onto newly sprouted plants; thus farmers may use them in chasing away unwanted parasitic insects.
The next time you come across one throw some nuts towards its directions; these are their favorite dishes especially for gestating females.
Safaris Africa
First and foremost, Squirrels belong to a large family of small or medium-sized rodents called the Sciuridae. The family includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunks, marmots (including woodchucks), flying squirrels, the gray squirrels, the prairie dogs and more than two hundred other species. Squirrels are indigenous to the Americas, Eurasia, and Africa and have been introduced to Australia therefore they are not rare species at all.
These tiny animals that belong to the Sciuridae family, range in size from 5 to 36 inches (13-92 cm) long including their very long and bushy tails. The biggest squirrel is the Indian Giant Squirrel with the smallest species of squirrels being the Gray species that range from 5 to 10 inches and are found in the southern Americas. Baby squirrels are born in nests of about six at a time but only a couple surviving until adult hood. They are blind and hairless at birth like birds for period of two or three months. Females may have several litters in a year, so most squirrel populations are robust and they are certainly not an endangered species.
Squirrels are omnivores in by nature which means that they eat both plants and meat. They eat seeds, nuts, leaves, bulbs, roots, mushrooms, insects, worms, eggs, small birds, and other small animals. Ground squirrels have pouches in their cheeks in which they carry food to their burrow to store hence they are known for burrowing in between food crops and sometimes damaging the roots of tender vegetable shoots and roots. The other kinds of squirrels are the tree and flying squirrels. Flying squirrels don’t fly instead they glide form tree to tree as they extend their furry for limbs to either side.
The most interesting fact about them in which I feel that the squirrel must be respected and appreciated for, is its abilities, especially its grace and acrobatics in the trees. Perhaps no other animal is as quick to disappear as a fleeing squirrel. Once he sees you, nine out of ten times you'll never see the likes of him again. One wonders what is so terribly wrong with them just having to stay in one position for at least five minutes at a time. The advantage of these is the fact that they eat away insects that love eating onto newly sprouted plants; thus farmers may use them in chasing away unwanted parasitic insects.
The next time you come across one throw some nuts towards its directions; these are their favorite dishes especially for gestating females.
Safaris Africa
Thursday, November 25, 2010
The Hot Air Balloon
When coming to the Kenyan beaches one will find that there are some tour firms that offer the hot air balloon as part of the holiday feast for them to enjoy. This is all quite good since the hot air balloon gives one a taste of the land from a birds eye view. Having time to go on this ride is good but it does not come cheap and for those afraid of heights, it does not go to helping them relax from all this. Here are a few facts on the hot air balloon and why it is becoming a popular event when at the coast of Kenya.
The hot air balloons were discovered in France in 1783 by two brothers Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier who had earlier tried it by having one made out of polythene bags and putting a chicken, duck and sheep for a five minute ride which they survived. On seeing this they went ahead to improve the model and in that same year, they made the hot air balloon taking a twenty minute ride across Paris made out of thick tent like material and a wicker basket .
It is written that back in 1783, local farmers were very suspicious of the 'fiery dragon' descending from the sky into their vineyards. To placate them and celebrate the first flight, the pilots offered champagne to both the passengers and observers.
The propane gas is stored in compressed liquid form, in lightweight cylinders. When the burner is started, the propane flows out quickly through hoses to a heating coil around the burner, and is ignited by a pilot light. As the flame burns, the metal in the tubing heats up. This heats up the propane flowing through it and changes it to a gas. Helium gas propelled balloons have also been introduced with time.
A typical commercial pleasure balloon flight reaches anywhere from about 500 feet to as much as 3,000 feet altitude above ground level, although flights up to 10,000 feet are possible. Helium balloons using very specialized equipment, including fully enclosed, pressurized cabins, have exceeded 100,000 feet in altitude. The altitude record in the Guinness Book of Records, for hot air balloons is 65,000 feet.
One disadvantage of hot air balloons is that Hot air balloons don't fly in the rain because balloon heat can cause water to boil atop the balloon, and boiling water destroys the fabric. As a traveler it is thus important to make sure that one picks out a bright sunny day for safety purposes.
It should be emphasized that when going hot air ballooning, you will go with a trained pilot. Like any other aviation activity there are strict rules and regulations that need to be applied. Just like captains of planes, hot balloon pilots undergo medicals and balloons are inspected every 100 hours to ensure that they are airworthy and completely safe. Make sure you inform the pilot about any health issues that may emerge during the ride so as to prepare her for any eventualities.
Lastly go with a friend and enjoy the view of the beautiful country Kenya and take lots of pictures for sweet memories later on.
Hot Air Baloon Safaris
The hot air balloons were discovered in France in 1783 by two brothers Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier who had earlier tried it by having one made out of polythene bags and putting a chicken, duck and sheep for a five minute ride which they survived. On seeing this they went ahead to improve the model and in that same year, they made the hot air balloon taking a twenty minute ride across Paris made out of thick tent like material and a wicker basket .
It is written that back in 1783, local farmers were very suspicious of the 'fiery dragon' descending from the sky into their vineyards. To placate them and celebrate the first flight, the pilots offered champagne to both the passengers and observers.
The propane gas is stored in compressed liquid form, in lightweight cylinders. When the burner is started, the propane flows out quickly through hoses to a heating coil around the burner, and is ignited by a pilot light. As the flame burns, the metal in the tubing heats up. This heats up the propane flowing through it and changes it to a gas. Helium gas propelled balloons have also been introduced with time.
A typical commercial pleasure balloon flight reaches anywhere from about 500 feet to as much as 3,000 feet altitude above ground level, although flights up to 10,000 feet are possible. Helium balloons using very specialized equipment, including fully enclosed, pressurized cabins, have exceeded 100,000 feet in altitude. The altitude record in the Guinness Book of Records, for hot air balloons is 65,000 feet.
One disadvantage of hot air balloons is that Hot air balloons don't fly in the rain because balloon heat can cause water to boil atop the balloon, and boiling water destroys the fabric. As a traveler it is thus important to make sure that one picks out a bright sunny day for safety purposes.
It should be emphasized that when going hot air ballooning, you will go with a trained pilot. Like any other aviation activity there are strict rules and regulations that need to be applied. Just like captains of planes, hot balloon pilots undergo medicals and balloons are inspected every 100 hours to ensure that they are airworthy and completely safe. Make sure you inform the pilot about any health issues that may emerge during the ride so as to prepare her for any eventualities.
Lastly go with a friend and enjoy the view of the beautiful country Kenya and take lots of pictures for sweet memories later on.
Hot Air Baloon Safaris
Sunday, November 21, 2010
The Zebra
If one is a tourist in any Kenyan park, one can not miss to have a glimpse of the Zebra with locals suggesting in jest that it is the African version of the horse. I do not know how this can be so considering that the horse is the strongest animal living. So what are the traits of a zebra, particularly a Kenyan Zebra (if there is anything like an African horse?).
Zebras were the second lineage to diverge from the earliest proto-horses, after the asses, around 4 million years ago. Grevy's zebra (a species of the zebras) is believed to have been the first zebra species to emerge. The ancestors of the Equus horses are believed to have been striped, and zebras must have retained the stripes of their ancestors due to their advantage for social animals in tropical environments. Extensive stripes would be of little use to equids that live in low densities in deserts (like asses and some horses) or ones that live in colder climates with shaggy coats and annual shading (like some horses).
There are three species of zebra that still occur in Africa, two of which are found in East Africa. The most numerous and widespread species in the east is Burchell's, also known as the common or plains zebra. The other is Grevy's zebra (The long-legged Grevy's zebra, the biggest of the wild equids, is taller and heavier than the Burchell's, with a massive head and large ears.), named for Jules Grevy, a president of France in the 1880s who received one from Abyssinia as a gift, and now found mostly in northern Kenya. (The third species, Equids zebra, is the mountain zebra, found in southern and southwestern Africa.)
Zebras are important prey for lions and hyenas, and to a lesser extent, for hunting dogs, leopards and cheetahs. When a family group is attacked, the members form a semicircle, face the predator and watch it, ready to bite or strike should the attack continue. If one of the family is injured, the rest will often encircle it to protect it from further attack. Like many species of East Africa’s grazing animals, the Burchell's zebra is most in danger of habitat loss and competition for water with livestock.
As a way of protecting itself, zebras have a camouflaging mechanism. This is accomplished in several ways. First, the vertical striping helps the zebra hide in grass, while seeming absurd at first glance, considering that grass is neither white nor black, it is supposed to be effective against the zebra's main predator, the lion, which is color blind. Theoretically, a zebra standing still in tall grass may not be noticed at all by a lion. Additionally, since zebras are herd animals, the stripes may help to confuse predators - a number of zebras standing or moving close together may appear as one large animal, making it more difficult for the lion to pick out any single zebra to attack
Lastly to protect the young ones, are protected by the mother keeps all other zebras (even the members of her family) away from the foal for 2 or 3 days, until it learns to recognize her by sight, voice and smell. It would be advisable as a human to keep off young foals as the mother fiercely protects it.
Masai Mara Adventures
Zebras were the second lineage to diverge from the earliest proto-horses, after the asses, around 4 million years ago. Grevy's zebra (a species of the zebras) is believed to have been the first zebra species to emerge. The ancestors of the Equus horses are believed to have been striped, and zebras must have retained the stripes of their ancestors due to their advantage for social animals in tropical environments. Extensive stripes would be of little use to equids that live in low densities in deserts (like asses and some horses) or ones that live in colder climates with shaggy coats and annual shading (like some horses).
There are three species of zebra that still occur in Africa, two of which are found in East Africa. The most numerous and widespread species in the east is Burchell's, also known as the common or plains zebra. The other is Grevy's zebra (The long-legged Grevy's zebra, the biggest of the wild equids, is taller and heavier than the Burchell's, with a massive head and large ears.), named for Jules Grevy, a president of France in the 1880s who received one from Abyssinia as a gift, and now found mostly in northern Kenya. (The third species, Equids zebra, is the mountain zebra, found in southern and southwestern Africa.)
Zebras are important prey for lions and hyenas, and to a lesser extent, for hunting dogs, leopards and cheetahs. When a family group is attacked, the members form a semicircle, face the predator and watch it, ready to bite or strike should the attack continue. If one of the family is injured, the rest will often encircle it to protect it from further attack. Like many species of East Africa’s grazing animals, the Burchell's zebra is most in danger of habitat loss and competition for water with livestock.
As a way of protecting itself, zebras have a camouflaging mechanism. This is accomplished in several ways. First, the vertical striping helps the zebra hide in grass, while seeming absurd at first glance, considering that grass is neither white nor black, it is supposed to be effective against the zebra's main predator, the lion, which is color blind. Theoretically, a zebra standing still in tall grass may not be noticed at all by a lion. Additionally, since zebras are herd animals, the stripes may help to confuse predators - a number of zebras standing or moving close together may appear as one large animal, making it more difficult for the lion to pick out any single zebra to attack
Lastly to protect the young ones, are protected by the mother keeps all other zebras (even the members of her family) away from the foal for 2 or 3 days, until it learns to recognize her by sight, voice and smell. It would be advisable as a human to keep off young foals as the mother fiercely protects it.
Masai Mara Adventures
Bird Safari
We are at Mara Siria and part of their package includes a bird watching safari or a birding safari. It includes the aspect of trying to watch the various magnificent species of birds available in the country and identifying their various traits as they are in that environment. you might ask yourself what this safari has in store and what it entails considering that you are not among the devout bird watchers in the country. Perhaps you even wonder how to go about it since you have lived in the city and the only bird species that you have come across is the Marabou Stork that loves to nest around trees in the city centre. What species are found?
In the morning a trip is organized to various spots of the extensive Mara grasslands that are a strong hold to the threatened, migratory Corncrake and the near threatened Jackson's widowbird. The bush and woodlands around the reserve for example around the cooler eastern region, also holds some unique bird species, with more than 450 bird species that have been recorded in the last few years. It also includes twelve species of Cisticola and birds of prey. Large numbers of Palaerctic migrants brood in the area alongside Caspian plovers and white storks. Other local and unusual birds in the Mara include Rock Cisticola, Rufous Bellied Heron, Denham's Bustard, Black Coucal, Red Tailed chat, Pale Wren Warbler, Tabora Cisticola, Yellow Bellied Hyliota, Green-capped Eremomela and Magpie Shrike. Yes these species are indeed bird species which are found in the Mara.
Further more one is also likely to see, the Common Ostrich, the small but still conspicuous Cardinal Quelea, Sooty Chat, Ground Hornbill, Open-billed Stork, Temminck's Courser, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse and Denham's Bustard. Lilac-breasted Rollers are common. If we find a kill or rotten carcass, we could also expect to see six species of vultures all scavenging around the area.
There are some species of birds that have the habit of migrating to Kenya during the cold season with common species to be such as the Egyptian Hooded Griffon, Nubian White-backed and White-headed storks that are a sight to behold. Pictures are taken in great quantity to be used as cover photos to postcards and calendars as memoirs of a fun filled trip. In addition we will encounter numerous raptors such as Bateleur, Martial and Tawny Eagles, as well as Pale Chanting Goshawk, Augur Buzzards and Black-chested Snake Eagles.
If the Eastern side is not enough we can go along the Masai Mara River and we could watch out for the African Finfoot, Schalow's and Ross' Turaco, Woodland Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Barbet, Black-billed Weaver, Violet-backed Starling, and perhaps with luck, Pel's Fishing Owl. Any tapping noise on the trees may be indicative of the relatively uncommon Woodpeckers who have species such as the Golden-tailed, Green-backed and Fine-banded woodpeckers.
Am sure after the trip with our very informative guide your knowledge of bird species should have grown tenfold and so many postcards will be in line for those back home.
Lodges in the Masai Mara
In the morning a trip is organized to various spots of the extensive Mara grasslands that are a strong hold to the threatened, migratory Corncrake and the near threatened Jackson's widowbird. The bush and woodlands around the reserve for example around the cooler eastern region, also holds some unique bird species, with more than 450 bird species that have been recorded in the last few years. It also includes twelve species of Cisticola and birds of prey. Large numbers of Palaerctic migrants brood in the area alongside Caspian plovers and white storks. Other local and unusual birds in the Mara include Rock Cisticola, Rufous Bellied Heron, Denham's Bustard, Black Coucal, Red Tailed chat, Pale Wren Warbler, Tabora Cisticola, Yellow Bellied Hyliota, Green-capped Eremomela and Magpie Shrike. Yes these species are indeed bird species which are found in the Mara.
Further more one is also likely to see, the Common Ostrich, the small but still conspicuous Cardinal Quelea, Sooty Chat, Ground Hornbill, Open-billed Stork, Temminck's Courser, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse and Denham's Bustard. Lilac-breasted Rollers are common. If we find a kill or rotten carcass, we could also expect to see six species of vultures all scavenging around the area.
There are some species of birds that have the habit of migrating to Kenya during the cold season with common species to be such as the Egyptian Hooded Griffon, Nubian White-backed and White-headed storks that are a sight to behold. Pictures are taken in great quantity to be used as cover photos to postcards and calendars as memoirs of a fun filled trip. In addition we will encounter numerous raptors such as Bateleur, Martial and Tawny Eagles, as well as Pale Chanting Goshawk, Augur Buzzards and Black-chested Snake Eagles.
If the Eastern side is not enough we can go along the Masai Mara River and we could watch out for the African Finfoot, Schalow's and Ross' Turaco, Woodland Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Barbet, Black-billed Weaver, Violet-backed Starling, and perhaps with luck, Pel's Fishing Owl. Any tapping noise on the trees may be indicative of the relatively uncommon Woodpeckers who have species such as the Golden-tailed, Green-backed and Fine-banded woodpeckers.
Am sure after the trip with our very informative guide your knowledge of bird species should have grown tenfold and so many postcards will be in line for those back home.
Lodges in the Masai Mara
Mara Siria Camp
Dear reader perhaps you are wondering as to whether all these places are in the Mara, I say yes. The Mara is so large with a whole load of flora and fauna for travelers to relish that it is not possible to talk about the park in just one day unless…well there is no unless; it is virtually impossible to talk about the wonders of the Mara in just a day. Even just talking about the lodges alone by themselves needs more than a day to explain the expert services of the lodges.
Take for example the Mara Siria Camp; it is found in the Siria escarpment which is part of the Great Rift Valley phenomena. It is known to be a luxury tented camp situated on the top of the Siria Escarpment with unique and breathtaking views onto the plains of the Masai Mara Triangle and Mara River all at the same time. In order to reach there one needs to take a four hour road trip from the city centre towards the Mara national park. Better still one can take a direct flight from the Wilson airport and land smack into the Siria camp since it has its own airstrip inside the lodge.
On reaching there, one is greeted by several packages among them eight tents with double beds, two family tents and two luxury Masai style Bandas. The tents of course are all en-suite and with a private veranda that enable the holiday lover to experience great views over the Masai Mara including the hundreds of animal species present in the great park. Solar panels provide electricity to the tents; after all, the Mara is in an area that experiences hot days with the sun shining fiercely all day long. Also with the world going green it is a good venture to prevent further environmental degradation and de-forestation.
The restaurant offers stylish cuisine such as breakfast rolls that are made to a traditional Bavarian recipe. It is a very delicious dish with this dish being the camps trademark in the region. At night, the restaurant offers bonfires with story telling sessions concerning the culture of the people of Kenya and the different bird species in the region. This is part of the parks vision of offering world class services and promoting ‘Edutainment’ to foreign tourists who want to learn about Kenya. Also barbeques are organized for tourists for them to at least sample the tasty roast meat in the country that is popularly referred to as “Nyama Choma”
This restaurant is unique in its own way as it provides the clients with a variety of activities such as archery, hot air ballooning, biking along the park zones, exclusive and very entertaining game drives and of course the ever so relished bird watching.
As the sun sets, one can enjoy the beautiful sunset while sipping a cool, crisp, clean fermented, frothy drink that is known to calm the nerves and help in digestion. These drinks are found in the pub that is part of the Hotel.
Karibu Sana dear tourist, you will not be disappointed.
Maasai Mara Safaris
Take for example the Mara Siria Camp; it is found in the Siria escarpment which is part of the Great Rift Valley phenomena. It is known to be a luxury tented camp situated on the top of the Siria Escarpment with unique and breathtaking views onto the plains of the Masai Mara Triangle and Mara River all at the same time. In order to reach there one needs to take a four hour road trip from the city centre towards the Mara national park. Better still one can take a direct flight from the Wilson airport and land smack into the Siria camp since it has its own airstrip inside the lodge.
On reaching there, one is greeted by several packages among them eight tents with double beds, two family tents and two luxury Masai style Bandas. The tents of course are all en-suite and with a private veranda that enable the holiday lover to experience great views over the Masai Mara including the hundreds of animal species present in the great park. Solar panels provide electricity to the tents; after all, the Mara is in an area that experiences hot days with the sun shining fiercely all day long. Also with the world going green it is a good venture to prevent further environmental degradation and de-forestation.
The restaurant offers stylish cuisine such as breakfast rolls that are made to a traditional Bavarian recipe. It is a very delicious dish with this dish being the camps trademark in the region. At night, the restaurant offers bonfires with story telling sessions concerning the culture of the people of Kenya and the different bird species in the region. This is part of the parks vision of offering world class services and promoting ‘Edutainment’ to foreign tourists who want to learn about Kenya. Also barbeques are organized for tourists for them to at least sample the tasty roast meat in the country that is popularly referred to as “Nyama Choma”
This restaurant is unique in its own way as it provides the clients with a variety of activities such as archery, hot air ballooning, biking along the park zones, exclusive and very entertaining game drives and of course the ever so relished bird watching.
As the sun sets, one can enjoy the beautiful sunset while sipping a cool, crisp, clean fermented, frothy drink that is known to calm the nerves and help in digestion. These drinks are found in the pub that is part of the Hotel.
Karibu Sana dear tourist, you will not be disappointed.
Maasai Mara Safaris
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Wildebeest
Since we are talking about the Mara, it’s hotels and lodges, we might as well talk about the wildebeest as we are most likely to meet up with it at the Mare. Perhaps it was your biggest reason for visiting the park.
A few facts about the wildebeest
Its Swahili name is Nyumbu ya monte and its scientific name is Connochetes Taurinus
Believe it or not it is actually a sub- species of the antelopes though it resembles a buffalo. A keen eye would observe that its body looks as if body parts were removed from the air and assembled together; the mane and tail area look like they are from a horse, the fore quarters from an ox and the hindquarters from an antelope.
They are the species that form the largest herds in the Mara.
When young, a calf that has lost its mother will imprint itself on something like a person, car or worse still a predator (read leopard) and follow it.
It is one of the species of animals whose numbers have increased significantly over the years. This could be explained by the fact that they defend one another and also females usually calf during the same time increasing their chances of survival. (There is security in number).
They can’t live without water for more than three straight days.
Their main predators are lions, cheetahs, man and hyenas.
See the eight wonder of the world: The Wildebeest Migration at Ngerende Island lodge
A few facts about the wildebeest
Its Swahili name is Nyumbu ya monte and its scientific name is Connochetes Taurinus
Believe it or not it is actually a sub- species of the antelopes though it resembles a buffalo. A keen eye would observe that its body looks as if body parts were removed from the air and assembled together; the mane and tail area look like they are from a horse, the fore quarters from an ox and the hindquarters from an antelope.
They are the species that form the largest herds in the Mara.
When young, a calf that has lost its mother will imprint itself on something like a person, car or worse still a predator (read leopard) and follow it.
It is one of the species of animals whose numbers have increased significantly over the years. This could be explained by the fact that they defend one another and also females usually calf during the same time increasing their chances of survival. (There is security in number).
They can’t live without water for more than three straight days.
Their main predators are lions, cheetahs, man and hyenas.
See the eight wonder of the world: The Wildebeest Migration at Ngerende Island lodge
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Mara Serena
The Serena group of hotels is practically everywhere. In fact on would wonder aloud, if it was not present in the Mara.
As is characteristic of the Serena hotels, this on is just as elegant as any other. It works in collaboration with other Serena hotels in the country thus providing air- lift travels between the hotels in the East African region.
It fully caters to the tours and travel appetites of the clientele thus avoiding the inconveniences of unscrupulous tour operators. Its air conditioned rooms offers a sweet relief to anyone against the hot Mara climate.
Masai Mara Holiday packages are available to the client whether it is in groups, as a family, as a couple or even solo journeys. Rooms, seventy in total are artistically furnished with individualized room service, butler service and transport arrangements to and from the airport.
It over looks the park from the Serengeti side just close to the great migration area near the leopards den as they await ready made, easily available wildebeest ‘funga’.
Of course as a client, with all these options, one must be ready to dig deep and when I say deep I mean really deep into their pockets.
Kenya Safaris
As is characteristic of the Serena hotels, this on is just as elegant as any other. It works in collaboration with other Serena hotels in the country thus providing air- lift travels between the hotels in the East African region.
It fully caters to the tours and travel appetites of the clientele thus avoiding the inconveniences of unscrupulous tour operators. Its air conditioned rooms offers a sweet relief to anyone against the hot Mara climate.
Masai Mara Holiday packages are available to the client whether it is in groups, as a family, as a couple or even solo journeys. Rooms, seventy in total are artistically furnished with individualized room service, butler service and transport arrangements to and from the airport.
It over looks the park from the Serengeti side just close to the great migration area near the leopards den as they await ready made, easily available wildebeest ‘funga’.
Of course as a client, with all these options, one must be ready to dig deep and when I say deep I mean really deep into their pockets.
Kenya Safaris
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Facts about the leopard
Leopards are not social butterflies, infact they are loners and it is not unusual to see several leopards lying lazily on separate trees around the park as they await their prey. They belong to the larger cat family.Their life span is twenty one years with their only predators being man who hunt them for their fur to make mink coats. Some hunt them because of their superstitious inclinations for their whiskers believing that they have healing powers.
It is capable of killing its prey that is even twice as large as their body mass because of its strength.
When not hunting, the leopard moves through herds of antelopes and gazelles without disturbing them and flips its tail over its back to reveal the white side as a sign that it is not seeking prey.
When food is scarce, the hide their kill on trees away form hyenas who scavenge for their prey.
They are the most cunning of predators when hunting. (Perhaps the saying should be changed to as cunning as a leopard)
Weird as it sounds, a leopards tail is just as long as its body as this helps it to balance and to make sudden sharp turns when sprinting for prey.
wild Safaris Africa See the Leopard here
It is capable of killing its prey that is even twice as large as their body mass because of its strength.
When not hunting, the leopard moves through herds of antelopes and gazelles without disturbing them and flips its tail over its back to reveal the white side as a sign that it is not seeking prey.
When food is scarce, the hide their kill on trees away form hyenas who scavenge for their prey.
They are the most cunning of predators when hunting. (Perhaps the saying should be changed to as cunning as a leopard)
Weird as it sounds, a leopards tail is just as long as its body as this helps it to balance and to make sudden sharp turns when sprinting for prey.
wild Safaris Africa See the Leopard here
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Honey Moon Destinations for the Mara
The holiday season is here once more and there seems to be a mad rush for holiday destinations especially in the touring honeymoon industry. Now the wedding industry is all grown up with a number of companies coming up so as to cater for the newly weds on their first destination as a couple. More than ever, people are busy with many not having time to even plan for this lifetime event, yet every couple will tell you that they want a colorful ceremony that will leave all the guests talking about it their whole life to come. This time of the year, many venues that are famous for hosting weddings are fully booked with some offering professional services while others providing services that desire so much more.
Many couples are also willing to spend a bit more when it comes to their honeymoon, as long as they are offered an experience of a lifetime that shall never be forgotten. And what is the million dollar question that is in the minds of newly weds; what honeymoon packages are available to the love birds?
There is the rift valley tour for the couples who want to explore the entire rift in a span of one week, from Lake Naivasha to the ever so magnificent Maasai Mara Park. The package is provided by Kenya safari holidays. It includes a list of the following; (assuming that the departure will be from the city of Nairobi.)
DAY 1: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha:
After breakfast the couple is driven westwards with a short stopover at the viewpoint on the great rift valley then towards lake Naivasha that is seen to sparkle though it is thousands of feet below. Lake Naivasha the highest lake in the rift valley and was famous in the 1930's as a staging post for imperial airways flying boast services from Durban to London. Night time and breakfast bookings are done at kiangasi house.
After lunch a visit to the hell's gate national park is made since it is famous for its natural steaming geysers and haven for bird watchers.
DAY 2: Lake Naivasha:
The first option: After breakfast couples have a boat ride to the crescent island that is known to be one of the few places in all of Africa where you can wander on foot among herds of zebra, wildebeest gazelle and giraffe, because of the absence of predators.
The second option will be a day trip to Lake Nakuru national park that is famous being the home to millions of pink flamingoes and the black / white rhino.
DAY 3: Lake Naivasha to the Maasai Mara:
This includes a one hour air trip to the lodge with eating and feasting being the main agenda.
DAY 5: Maasai Mara:
Couples get to enjoy a full day in the Mara with two game drives included. The Maasai Mara offers wonderful scenery and abundance as existed a century ago.
Overnight one has the option of staying in one of these camp, Sarova Mara camp, Keekorok lodge, Mara Simba lodge, Mara Sopa lodge and Kichwa Tembo camp.
DAY 5: Maasai Mara to Nairobi:
After a delicious lunch, the couple is airlifted to the Serena hotel in Nairobi through Wilson airport for the night, which includes a cool, elegant atmosphere to unwind before resuming ones day to day activities.
Honeymoon Rooms Africa
Many couples are also willing to spend a bit more when it comes to their honeymoon, as long as they are offered an experience of a lifetime that shall never be forgotten. And what is the million dollar question that is in the minds of newly weds; what honeymoon packages are available to the love birds?
There is the rift valley tour for the couples who want to explore the entire rift in a span of one week, from Lake Naivasha to the ever so magnificent Maasai Mara Park. The package is provided by Kenya safari holidays. It includes a list of the following; (assuming that the departure will be from the city of Nairobi.)
DAY 1: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha:
After breakfast the couple is driven westwards with a short stopover at the viewpoint on the great rift valley then towards lake Naivasha that is seen to sparkle though it is thousands of feet below. Lake Naivasha the highest lake in the rift valley and was famous in the 1930's as a staging post for imperial airways flying boast services from Durban to London. Night time and breakfast bookings are done at kiangasi house.
After lunch a visit to the hell's gate national park is made since it is famous for its natural steaming geysers and haven for bird watchers.
DAY 2: Lake Naivasha:
The first option: After breakfast couples have a boat ride to the crescent island that is known to be one of the few places in all of Africa where you can wander on foot among herds of zebra, wildebeest gazelle and giraffe, because of the absence of predators.
The second option will be a day trip to Lake Nakuru national park that is famous being the home to millions of pink flamingoes and the black / white rhino.
DAY 3: Lake Naivasha to the Maasai Mara:
This includes a one hour air trip to the lodge with eating and feasting being the main agenda.
DAY 5: Maasai Mara:
Couples get to enjoy a full day in the Mara with two game drives included. The Maasai Mara offers wonderful scenery and abundance as existed a century ago.
Overnight one has the option of staying in one of these camp, Sarova Mara camp, Keekorok lodge, Mara Simba lodge, Mara Sopa lodge and Kichwa Tembo camp.
DAY 5: Maasai Mara to Nairobi:
After a delicious lunch, the couple is airlifted to the Serena hotel in Nairobi through Wilson airport for the night, which includes a cool, elegant atmosphere to unwind before resuming ones day to day activities.
Honeymoon Rooms Africa
Honeymoon Destinations for the love birds
Yesterday we went into the honey moon industry as we outlined destination packages for newly weds that are on offer thanks to Kenya safari holidays who saw it fit to entertain these ‘tourists’. In today’s article we shall look at another package that is on offer however it is restricted to the coastal region. Customers should also be aware that these packages can be customized on demand depending on the customer’s pockets or needs at that particular moment.
Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo/Chyulu hills
After lunch you will be met and transferred to Wilson airport for a flight to Tsavo West National Park preceding to the magnificent Chyulu Hills on the southern border of Tsavo West national Park. For the next three nights couple stays at Campi ya Kanzi, a small and luxurious permanent tented camp. The area offers incredible views of Kilimanjaro accompanied by game drives into Tsavo West national Park
Day 2/3: Tsavo to Chyulu Hills
Couple stays for two full days to explore the area and view wildlife in game drives or walking. For the bird lovers, there are over 600 bird species to watch.
Day 4/6: Borana Game Sanctuary
After breakfast and a morning game drive or walk, couples proceed by private charter to Borana Ranch. Game viewing on the ranch and beyond is excellent. Day and night viewing is by 4WD vehicles. For the next three days on safari you will have the opportunity, to enjoy horseback riding amongst the wildlife, take a guided walking safari and swim in the beautiful pool. Stay will be at the Borana National Park.
Day 7: Maasai Mara
This reserve is the home of the “big fives”…elephants, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino, as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, hippo, impala, gazelle and numerous other wildlife; including hundreds of species of birds. For the next three nights couples will be hosted at Moran Camp, one of the Mara’s newest luxury bush camps. Hidden under ancient trees on the banks of the Mara River, each of the 10 enormous luxury tents is furnished with king-sized beds and furniture, homemade from wild olive trees, huge en suite bathrooms with flush toilets and double showers with plenty of hot water. The tent includes a large verandah where you can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner. During the day meals are served under a canopy of trees and their cordon-bleu dinners by candlelit are unforgettable experience.
At dusk sundowners around a bonfire are organized with a scrumptious dinner being served.
As the holiday ends, the firm organizes a return trip via air or road depending on the customers wish with confidence that the couple has thoroughly enjoyed themselves with many sweet memories of the holiday. We do hope that it will also turn to be an experience to be remembered and as a couple you get to consider it as one of your tour partners for all the holidays you get to have as a family.
Happy Holidays Folks!
Honeymoon Destinations Africa
Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo/Chyulu hills
After lunch you will be met and transferred to Wilson airport for a flight to Tsavo West National Park preceding to the magnificent Chyulu Hills on the southern border of Tsavo West national Park. For the next three nights couple stays at Campi ya Kanzi, a small and luxurious permanent tented camp. The area offers incredible views of Kilimanjaro accompanied by game drives into Tsavo West national Park
Day 2/3: Tsavo to Chyulu Hills
Couple stays for two full days to explore the area and view wildlife in game drives or walking. For the bird lovers, there are over 600 bird species to watch.
Day 4/6: Borana Game Sanctuary
After breakfast and a morning game drive or walk, couples proceed by private charter to Borana Ranch. Game viewing on the ranch and beyond is excellent. Day and night viewing is by 4WD vehicles. For the next three days on safari you will have the opportunity, to enjoy horseback riding amongst the wildlife, take a guided walking safari and swim in the beautiful pool. Stay will be at the Borana National Park.
Day 7: Maasai Mara
This reserve is the home of the “big fives”…elephants, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino, as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, hippo, impala, gazelle and numerous other wildlife; including hundreds of species of birds. For the next three nights couples will be hosted at Moran Camp, one of the Mara’s newest luxury bush camps. Hidden under ancient trees on the banks of the Mara River, each of the 10 enormous luxury tents is furnished with king-sized beds and furniture, homemade from wild olive trees, huge en suite bathrooms with flush toilets and double showers with plenty of hot water. The tent includes a large verandah where you can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner. During the day meals are served under a canopy of trees and their cordon-bleu dinners by candlelit are unforgettable experience.
At dusk sundowners around a bonfire are organized with a scrumptious dinner being served.
As the holiday ends, the firm organizes a return trip via air or road depending on the customers wish with confidence that the couple has thoroughly enjoyed themselves with many sweet memories of the holiday. We do hope that it will also turn to be an experience to be remembered and as a couple you get to consider it as one of your tour partners for all the holidays you get to have as a family.
Happy Holidays Folks!
Honeymoon Destinations Africa
Honeymoons with an Eco-tourism touch to it:
So maybe you are environmentally friendly and you feel that it is your duty to keep the environment clean at least to protect the environment. This time the holiday revolves round the western province of Kenya (with short stop overs in Naivasha.) that is not very well known but has a vast population of natural sites for nature lovers. SO what does this involve?
Day 1: Sinya Omelok, the base camp is the first destination from the city with is hub of all activities to its name. For two days it will cover walks around the camp, landscape viewing, catching panoramic and unique views from the escarpment, or participating in local activities such as bull fighting which the locals enjoy to watch.
Day 2: A short staff-guided nature trail is provided to the visitors with an opportunity to see unique caves, sacred sites, wildlife….and a great variety of bio diversity that is found in the region. The best part is that Sinya Omelok is only a 90 minutes drive from Nairobi. The sub-humid ecosystem offers a diverse range of bio diversity for the enjoyment of the nature lovers. The main objective of this people driven program is to establish systems for sustainable resource management to generate income and support food security strategies in the region while at the same time generating revenue for development of the camp.
Day 3: The next destination is the Tree Hotel in the Aberdare which is in the Mt Kenya National Park. The Tree Hotel is located in indigenous forest in the foothills of Mount Kenya National Park.
Day 4: Finally the couple departs for Kakamega via the Rift Valley. Forest in Western Kenya is a superb slab of virgin tropical rainforest in the heart of an intensively cultivated agricultural area. It is home to a huge variety of birds and animals. Only in this forest can you find the rare De Brazza monkey. The overnight stay will be at Rondo Retreat Centre that is operated by the Trinity Fellowship. It is set in beautiful gardens in the middle of the Kakamega forest. Guided walks for bird watching as several exotic species of birds found in the Kakamega Forest that are not seen anywhere else in Kenya.
Day 5: Saiwa Swamp
The couple departs from the Kakamega forest to Saiwa camp that is a rich haven for all kinds of birds. It is famous for hosting all kinds of reptiles among them the crocodile and lizards, the tortoise family and also the snails which are a delicacy to some of the communities around the region.
Of course there are many other sites that can be included in the safari package depending on your appetite for nature. The couple can always customize their holiday package. The honeymoon package is also offered by Kenya safari holidays with very attractive prices attached to each package. They are a reputable firm and customers always call for more.
Honeymoon Safari Rooms
Day 1: Sinya Omelok, the base camp is the first destination from the city with is hub of all activities to its name. For two days it will cover walks around the camp, landscape viewing, catching panoramic and unique views from the escarpment, or participating in local activities such as bull fighting which the locals enjoy to watch.
Day 2: A short staff-guided nature trail is provided to the visitors with an opportunity to see unique caves, sacred sites, wildlife….and a great variety of bio diversity that is found in the region. The best part is that Sinya Omelok is only a 90 minutes drive from Nairobi. The sub-humid ecosystem offers a diverse range of bio diversity for the enjoyment of the nature lovers. The main objective of this people driven program is to establish systems for sustainable resource management to generate income and support food security strategies in the region while at the same time generating revenue for development of the camp.
Day 3: The next destination is the Tree Hotel in the Aberdare which is in the Mt Kenya National Park. The Tree Hotel is located in indigenous forest in the foothills of Mount Kenya National Park.
Day 4: Finally the couple departs for Kakamega via the Rift Valley. Forest in Western Kenya is a superb slab of virgin tropical rainforest in the heart of an intensively cultivated agricultural area. It is home to a huge variety of birds and animals. Only in this forest can you find the rare De Brazza monkey. The overnight stay will be at Rondo Retreat Centre that is operated by the Trinity Fellowship. It is set in beautiful gardens in the middle of the Kakamega forest. Guided walks for bird watching as several exotic species of birds found in the Kakamega Forest that are not seen anywhere else in Kenya.
Day 5: Saiwa Swamp
The couple departs from the Kakamega forest to Saiwa camp that is a rich haven for all kinds of birds. It is famous for hosting all kinds of reptiles among them the crocodile and lizards, the tortoise family and also the snails which are a delicacy to some of the communities around the region.
Of course there are many other sites that can be included in the safari package depending on your appetite for nature. The couple can always customize their holiday package. The honeymoon package is also offered by Kenya safari holidays with very attractive prices attached to each package. They are a reputable firm and customers always call for more.
Honeymoon Safari Rooms
The Rhino
Since we are on a week long journey to the destination of our dreams where we save the best for last on our final day, we might as well talk about the Rhino. The Rhino is one of the animals in Kenya that is considered to be among the big five. Their population is widely spread and is found on every park in the country. One might wonder why there is all this talk about the Rhino and why the authorities consider it a ‘must have’ in every park in the country.
Rhinos are herbivores, so they eat only grass, tender shoots, leaves, buds and other vegetation but no meat. These Kenyan animals live in scrubby savannahs but also near water and wallows. The black and white rhino species derive their names, not from the colors of their coats but from the shape of mouths.
Rhinos can grow to a height of about 152 cm (60 in) at the shoulder with an adult rhino's weight ranges from about 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) for the black species to about 2,550 kg (5,622 lb) for the white species; As such, it is the second largest land-based mammal after the African elephants Rhinos are extremely bad-tempered and it is not unusual for them to charge at human being or even cars for no apparent reason, however they do have a pretty poor eyesight compounding to their bad temper.
It is said that even a thief has honor thus the rhino is best friends with the red-billed and yellow-billed oxpeckers, one of the ubiquitous Kenya birds whose relationship is a symbiotic one with the oxpeckers devouring the ticks they find on the rhino coat and they alert rhinos to impending danger by chirping ceaselessly and in turn the rhino offering warm shelter on their backs. Rhinos have a well-developed sense of smell and hearing. The rhino can attain a speed of 48 km (30 mile) per hour, which when one considers their weight it is quite fast. In addition, contrary to a commonly held myth, a rhino is able to make a sharp turn in a remarkably small space almost a turn of 90 degrees.
Gestation lasts 16 months and culminates in the birth of a single calf. The mother nurses its calf for 2 to 4 years or until the next calf is born. These calves eventually wander off and live on their own when they mature. Typically, a healthy rhino has a lifespan of about 40 years in the wild but some are known to have lived to up to half a century. Both rhino species have 2 horns, with the longer one sitting at the base of the nose. These horns are primarily a weapon which the rhinos use to gore or strike their hapless victims who are mostly humans since they are their only predators
Luxury African Safaris
Rhinos are herbivores, so they eat only grass, tender shoots, leaves, buds and other vegetation but no meat. These Kenyan animals live in scrubby savannahs but also near water and wallows. The black and white rhino species derive their names, not from the colors of their coats but from the shape of mouths.
Rhinos can grow to a height of about 152 cm (60 in) at the shoulder with an adult rhino's weight ranges from about 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) for the black species to about 2,550 kg (5,622 lb) for the white species; As such, it is the second largest land-based mammal after the African elephants Rhinos are extremely bad-tempered and it is not unusual for them to charge at human being or even cars for no apparent reason, however they do have a pretty poor eyesight compounding to their bad temper.
It is said that even a thief has honor thus the rhino is best friends with the red-billed and yellow-billed oxpeckers, one of the ubiquitous Kenya birds whose relationship is a symbiotic one with the oxpeckers devouring the ticks they find on the rhino coat and they alert rhinos to impending danger by chirping ceaselessly and in turn the rhino offering warm shelter on their backs. Rhinos have a well-developed sense of smell and hearing. The rhino can attain a speed of 48 km (30 mile) per hour, which when one considers their weight it is quite fast. In addition, contrary to a commonly held myth, a rhino is able to make a sharp turn in a remarkably small space almost a turn of 90 degrees.
Gestation lasts 16 months and culminates in the birth of a single calf. The mother nurses its calf for 2 to 4 years or until the next calf is born. These calves eventually wander off and live on their own when they mature. Typically, a healthy rhino has a lifespan of about 40 years in the wild but some are known to have lived to up to half a century. Both rhino species have 2 horns, with the longer one sitting at the base of the nose. These horns are primarily a weapon which the rhinos use to gore or strike their hapless victims who are mostly humans since they are their only predators
Luxury African Safaris
The Ostrich
The ostrich belongs to the Ratite family of birds with the male ostrich being called a rooster while the female ostrich is called a hen. One of the most well known ostrich facts is that an ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain! The eye measures almost two inches across, which makes it the largest eye of any land animal and further more it is the largest and heaviest living bird in the world. This bird is a flightless bird for many reasons. Firstly, it has small and loose feathers and does not have a keeled sternum (breastbone) which is common to most birds. The main use of these feathers is to help them maintain their balance when they run, which specially comes in handy if they suddenly change direction. They also use them during the mating season by displaying the wings proudly to potential mates alongside their tail feathers. To show dominance, an ostrich holds its head up high and lifts its wings and its tail feathers (For male). To show submission, the head, wings and tail droop down (For the females).
Ostriches live in small herds that typically contain less than a dozen birds with the Alpha males maintaining these herds, and mate with the group's dominant hen (It is a patriarchal society). The male sometimes mates with others in the group, and wandering males may also mate with lesser hens. Interestingly all of the group's hens place their eggs in the dominant hen's nest—though her own are given the prominent center place The dominant hen and male take turns incubating the giant eggs, each one of which weighs as much as two dozen chicken eggs. When they hatch the females take turns to take care of the young chicks especially the ‘alpha female’s eggs’.
Ostrich meat resembles beef in its appearance and is cooked in almost the same way. Ostrich meat is a red meat and is very low in cholesterol, calories and is almost fat free, the best part is that the ostrich is not anywhere near being an endangered species so perhaps we could introduce it onto our menus for purpose of having variety. Ostriches produce the strongest commercially available leather in the world and also some of the most beautiful feathers around. Ostrich’s skeletons and fossils have been found to date back to over 120 million years with some archeologists saying that they could be part of the family of the extinct dinosaurs. There are 3 main species of ostriches of which only one, (the Struthio Camelus Domesticus (the African Black)), that is found in captivity.
Contrary to popular belief, ostriches do not bury their heads in the sand. The old saying probably originates with one of the bird's defensive behaviors. At the approach of trouble, ostriches will lie low and press their long necks to the ground in an attempt to become less visible. Their plumage blends well with sandy soil and, from a distance, gives the appearance that they have buried their heads in the sand.
Masai Mara Special offers
Ostriches live in small herds that typically contain less than a dozen birds with the Alpha males maintaining these herds, and mate with the group's dominant hen (It is a patriarchal society). The male sometimes mates with others in the group, and wandering males may also mate with lesser hens. Interestingly all of the group's hens place their eggs in the dominant hen's nest—though her own are given the prominent center place The dominant hen and male take turns incubating the giant eggs, each one of which weighs as much as two dozen chicken eggs. When they hatch the females take turns to take care of the young chicks especially the ‘alpha female’s eggs’.
Ostrich meat resembles beef in its appearance and is cooked in almost the same way. Ostrich meat is a red meat and is very low in cholesterol, calories and is almost fat free, the best part is that the ostrich is not anywhere near being an endangered species so perhaps we could introduce it onto our menus for purpose of having variety. Ostriches produce the strongest commercially available leather in the world and also some of the most beautiful feathers around. Ostrich’s skeletons and fossils have been found to date back to over 120 million years with some archeologists saying that they could be part of the family of the extinct dinosaurs. There are 3 main species of ostriches of which only one, (the Struthio Camelus Domesticus (the African Black)), that is found in captivity.
Contrary to popular belief, ostriches do not bury their heads in the sand. The old saying probably originates with one of the bird's defensive behaviors. At the approach of trouble, ostriches will lie low and press their long necks to the ground in an attempt to become less visible. Their plumage blends well with sandy soil and, from a distance, gives the appearance that they have buried their heads in the sand.
Masai Mara Special offers
Mara Sopa
So you have that wonderful honeymoon package and you are curious to find out what Mara sopa hotel is all about since the tour company has suggested it. You want to know what it I all about and whether it will cater towards all your needs. Look no further!
The Mara Sopa is located on the slopes of the Oloongama Hills with it being one of the first lodges to be built in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. It is about 240 kilometers from Nairobi, approximately 5 hours on tarmac or on an all weather murram road.
Guests are drawn to this lodge built in an ethnic design, surrounded by a rich landscape, covered in fauna, from huge desert cacti to sweet smelling jasmine flowers, all within the fabled Masai Mara game reserve. The theme of the hotel is a deep red and brown color that resembles the red soils of the Mara game park. The luxurious furnishings are a sight to behold with cool Makuti leaves as the room offering a cool and relaxing atmosphere to relax in after a hot day.
It has a wonderful swimming pool, lounge, car park, laundry services, bar and most of all, 90 rooms both single and double room capacities. Each room includes shower, balcony/terrace bathroom and room service with a phone also available in the room. Everything the hotel does is centered on the guest' experience, ensuring comfort and relaxation.
The Honeymoon Suite is situated right at the top of the property with an uninterrupted view of the Oloongama hills, this very spacious suite that has a king size bed set on a platform. The bathroom has a sunken in bath and shower. A spacious verandah is in the front to watch the sunset or have privately served meals or maybe to just sit and feel the evening breeze as it caresses ones cheeks.
The Mara as we all know is there for the purpose of catching a glimpse of some of the most exotic variety of wildlife. Te Mara Sopa would not be a honeymoon destination without this package; thus part of its wildlife adventures, it offers a variety of activities to be done such as; Guided Nature Walks Visits to nearby Maasai Villages in the vicinity of the park and also nightly wildlife feeding to the wildlife that visits the hotel at night. Some of these animals are the rhinos, giraffes and naughty gazelles. Have fun!
Luxury Masai Mara Stays
The Mara Sopa is located on the slopes of the Oloongama Hills with it being one of the first lodges to be built in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. It is about 240 kilometers from Nairobi, approximately 5 hours on tarmac or on an all weather murram road.
Guests are drawn to this lodge built in an ethnic design, surrounded by a rich landscape, covered in fauna, from huge desert cacti to sweet smelling jasmine flowers, all within the fabled Masai Mara game reserve. The theme of the hotel is a deep red and brown color that resembles the red soils of the Mara game park. The luxurious furnishings are a sight to behold with cool Makuti leaves as the room offering a cool and relaxing atmosphere to relax in after a hot day.
It has a wonderful swimming pool, lounge, car park, laundry services, bar and most of all, 90 rooms both single and double room capacities. Each room includes shower, balcony/terrace bathroom and room service with a phone also available in the room. Everything the hotel does is centered on the guest' experience, ensuring comfort and relaxation.
The Honeymoon Suite is situated right at the top of the property with an uninterrupted view of the Oloongama hills, this very spacious suite that has a king size bed set on a platform. The bathroom has a sunken in bath and shower. A spacious verandah is in the front to watch the sunset or have privately served meals or maybe to just sit and feel the evening breeze as it caresses ones cheeks.
The Mara as we all know is there for the purpose of catching a glimpse of some of the most exotic variety of wildlife. Te Mara Sopa would not be a honeymoon destination without this package; thus part of its wildlife adventures, it offers a variety of activities to be done such as; Guided Nature Walks Visits to nearby Maasai Villages in the vicinity of the park and also nightly wildlife feeding to the wildlife that visits the hotel at night. Some of these animals are the rhinos, giraffes and naughty gazelles. Have fun!
Luxury Masai Mara Stays
Friday, November 12, 2010
The Maasai People
Just as the name suggests, Maasai Mara is close to the Maasai ethnic group natural habitat in both Kenya and Tanzania.
Their story of origin says that they came up from heaven ( a man and woman) together with their herd of cattle that was their livelihood. (Though this does not entirely explain their fixation on cattle keeping even in the busy Nairobi city) Over time they were responsible for the death of many wildlife species as they defend their cattle but efforts have been made to enlighten them on wildlife conservation.
As part of their rites of passage of a boy being initiated into adult hood (moran) from childhood, they were required to go into the bush and kill a lion each to prove their bravery. This practice has thankfully been replaced by other rites.
In collaboration, the Kenyan and Tanzanian government have come up with measures to ensure that the Maasai and wildlife live symbiotically in one environment. Now they are employed as tour guides in the park since they know the depths of the park and survival tactics in the wild. With employment it ensures that they have other avenues for making a living.
Their women make beautiful bangles and memorabilia that tourists are attracted to.
Since it is originally their land, they are entrusted to protect the park land from further human encroachment, thus protecting the wildlife.
Lastly, The Maasai are Kenya's tourist attraction; how many people do you come across in a red shuka, a long stick, standing on one foot for hours on end?
Their story of origin says that they came up from heaven ( a man and woman) together with their herd of cattle that was their livelihood. (Though this does not entirely explain their fixation on cattle keeping even in the busy Nairobi city) Over time they were responsible for the death of many wildlife species as they defend their cattle but efforts have been made to enlighten them on wildlife conservation.
As part of their rites of passage of a boy being initiated into adult hood (moran) from childhood, they were required to go into the bush and kill a lion each to prove their bravery. This practice has thankfully been replaced by other rites.
In collaboration, the Kenyan and Tanzanian government have come up with measures to ensure that the Maasai and wildlife live symbiotically in one environment. Now they are employed as tour guides in the park since they know the depths of the park and survival tactics in the wild. With employment it ensures that they have other avenues for making a living.
Their women make beautiful bangles and memorabilia that tourists are attracted to.
Since it is originally their land, they are entrusted to protect the park land from further human encroachment, thus protecting the wildlife.
Lastly, The Maasai are Kenya's tourist attraction; how many people do you come across in a red shuka, a long stick, standing on one foot for hours on end?
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Keekorock lodge
Keekorock lodge is found in the Maasai game reserve and was the first lodge to be built in Game Park. It is built with cedar and stone buildings that provide luxurious experience to accommodation for guests. It is suited for those weekend getaways especially those who are interested in seeing a large variety of game in a short period of time since the wildlife tends to roam around within a very short distance of the lodge.
Early morning and afternoon game drives offer animal encounters unparalleled in the world all round the year. Imagine being greeted by ninety five species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles (notorious crocodiles along the Mara River), plus over four hundred bird species. My guess is that Nowhere in Africa is wildlife more abundant and alive than at the most elegant, amazing and spectacular Keekorock lodge.
The most fascinating thing about Keekorok Lodge is that it is situated in the direct path of the famous wildebeest migration that was recently named as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. At the height of the migration, the area around Keekorok is surrounded by animals which you can be viewed from the lodge itself especially from the walkway leading out into the open area near the lodge. Also the lodge is very near Nairobi thereby attracting the residents of this town. Travel time from the city centre is approximately three to four hours.
Being the oldest lodge, the ancient British designs of the lodge are a magnificent sight to behold since it was initially built almost like a castle as a home for one of the colonial generals. The compound furthermore comprises of green lawns with colorful bougainvillea along the walls of the lodge. Security is ample, mostly shielding holiday spenders from stray wild animals.
The eighty nine standard rooms, which includes eight superior rooms and four suites rooms are well constructed to suite the needs and pockets of all their clients. What’s more the rooms are well ventilated and air conditioned to shelter clients from the harsh African sun that tends to really shine on this land in the Maasai Mara.
The cuisine menus range from open breakfast Buffets to specially prepared African food like Matoke, Mukimo and Nyama choma that is roasted to perfection. The list is endless but the staff never tires from offering quality services to their beloved guest.
This is one place that truly lives to the adage that say, Old is Gold as it lives to this up until today.
Masai Mara Vacations
Early morning and afternoon game drives offer animal encounters unparalleled in the world all round the year. Imagine being greeted by ninety five species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles (notorious crocodiles along the Mara River), plus over four hundred bird species. My guess is that Nowhere in Africa is wildlife more abundant and alive than at the most elegant, amazing and spectacular Keekorock lodge.
The most fascinating thing about Keekorok Lodge is that it is situated in the direct path of the famous wildebeest migration that was recently named as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. At the height of the migration, the area around Keekorok is surrounded by animals which you can be viewed from the lodge itself especially from the walkway leading out into the open area near the lodge. Also the lodge is very near Nairobi thereby attracting the residents of this town. Travel time from the city centre is approximately three to four hours.
Being the oldest lodge, the ancient British designs of the lodge are a magnificent sight to behold since it was initially built almost like a castle as a home for one of the colonial generals. The compound furthermore comprises of green lawns with colorful bougainvillea along the walls of the lodge. Security is ample, mostly shielding holiday spenders from stray wild animals.
The eighty nine standard rooms, which includes eight superior rooms and four suites rooms are well constructed to suite the needs and pockets of all their clients. What’s more the rooms are well ventilated and air conditioned to shelter clients from the harsh African sun that tends to really shine on this land in the Maasai Mara.
The cuisine menus range from open breakfast Buffets to specially prepared African food like Matoke, Mukimo and Nyama choma that is roasted to perfection. The list is endless but the staff never tires from offering quality services to their beloved guest.
This is one place that truly lives to the adage that say, Old is Gold as it lives to this up until today.
Masai Mara Vacations
Royal Mara Safari Lodge
This lodge as the name suggests is situated in the Maasai Mara national park in Kenya. When one has just arrived into the camp, you are swept off your feet by the elegant furniture that is made from red cedar, olive and white podo logs gathered locally from private Maasai forest land. This natural African jungle atmosphere compounded by the rich brown color theme, followed by professional staff personnel who are hired to cater to all the needs of the client, is an experience not likely to be forgotten by anyone.
It is situated along the Leopard gorge just near the wildebeest migration in the park. The tented lodge and camp is located on the popular Hippo Bend Lagoon of the Mara River.
Guests are in the best location to most readily discover the Big Five mammals, amongst several elephant, buffalo and giraffe herds, several lion prides, including the "Maternity", Musiara Marsh, "Aitong", and Ridge prides, since the camp lies in close proximity to these wild animals.
Royal Mara Safari lodge is found in the richest game section of the Masai Mara which is the Western Masai (Maasai Mara has the Eastern and western section, with the East bordering towards the North Eastern Province thus being drier).
Guest suite facilities include: Double vanity sinks, carved desks, dining sets, en suite bathrooms with flush toilets, bidets, and showers, fully stocked mini-bars, private safe deposit boxes and lounge areas and most importantly, super size king or double beds that are hand curved by the local people. Being near such a variety of animals means that part of you midnight lullaby will be animal sounds like purring leopards, laughing hyenas, marching rhinos and the one or two straying galloping gazelles. All facilities have telephone access with the reception office and enjoy electric and hot water service.
Part of the holiday package, tourists are spoiled for choice as they can sunbathe in the open veranda chaises lounges, dine along the river frontage of the camp as hippos wallow in the nearby river, or experience nature walks along the huge lush compound of the hotel.
For all those whose taste buds are sensitive to good food you will not be disappointed; the food / cuisine / finger liking food is up to standard offering a wide variety of dishes for the tourists during every meal. The food is cooked by professionals who are only to willing to offer the best to the holiday lovers with the management believing and upholding to the fact that quality food begins with a quality kitchen. This place offers such a wide variety at top quality, whose main theme is to provide a home away from home experience while at the same time enjoying the holiday to the maximum. With such variety of professional services, clients keep going back for more.
This is one place to try out, further more their prices are very pocket friendly.
Honey Moon Vacations
It is situated along the Leopard gorge just near the wildebeest migration in the park. The tented lodge and camp is located on the popular Hippo Bend Lagoon of the Mara River.
Guests are in the best location to most readily discover the Big Five mammals, amongst several elephant, buffalo and giraffe herds, several lion prides, including the "Maternity", Musiara Marsh, "Aitong", and Ridge prides, since the camp lies in close proximity to these wild animals.
Royal Mara Safari lodge is found in the richest game section of the Masai Mara which is the Western Masai (Maasai Mara has the Eastern and western section, with the East bordering towards the North Eastern Province thus being drier).
Guest suite facilities include: Double vanity sinks, carved desks, dining sets, en suite bathrooms with flush toilets, bidets, and showers, fully stocked mini-bars, private safe deposit boxes and lounge areas and most importantly, super size king or double beds that are hand curved by the local people. Being near such a variety of animals means that part of you midnight lullaby will be animal sounds like purring leopards, laughing hyenas, marching rhinos and the one or two straying galloping gazelles. All facilities have telephone access with the reception office and enjoy electric and hot water service.
Part of the holiday package, tourists are spoiled for choice as they can sunbathe in the open veranda chaises lounges, dine along the river frontage of the camp as hippos wallow in the nearby river, or experience nature walks along the huge lush compound of the hotel.
For all those whose taste buds are sensitive to good food you will not be disappointed; the food / cuisine / finger liking food is up to standard offering a wide variety of dishes for the tourists during every meal. The food is cooked by professionals who are only to willing to offer the best to the holiday lovers with the management believing and upholding to the fact that quality food begins with a quality kitchen. This place offers such a wide variety at top quality, whose main theme is to provide a home away from home experience while at the same time enjoying the holiday to the maximum. With such variety of professional services, clients keep going back for more.
This is one place to try out, further more their prices are very pocket friendly.
Honey Moon Vacations
The Elephant
It is part of the big five animals in the Kenyan wildlife scene with quite a number of interesting facts to its name.
Elephants are large land mammals the largest living land animals currently. Recent DNA testing has split the African elephant species in two - African Bush (who is much smaller in size after attaining adult age) and the African Forest. African elephant species are generally larger than the Asian elephants, with scientists lacking a good explanation for it. Their gestation period is twenty two months or roughly 670 days (wow!), with new born calves weighing about 120 kilograms. Their society is matriarchal in nature with matriarchs being the bigger of the females in the pack.
Tusks grow for most of an elephant's lifetime and are an indicator of age, with the Asian female elephant lacking tusks. Because they tend to live in hot savanna climate, their bodies have adapted to this environment. One cooling mechanism of their bodies is to the ears on hot days, and in return, the blood circulates in the ear's numerous veins. The blood then returns to the head and body about 9 F cooler.
About 16 hours of an elephant's day is spent eating, drinking, bathing, dusting, wallowing, playing and resting. As an elephant only digests some 40 percent of what it eats, but this does not necessarily mean that its intake of food is little, actually, it needs tremendous amounts of vegetation; approximately 5 percent of its body weight per day and about 30 to 50 gallons of water to survive properly.
They are very alike to man in behavior. For example they recognize death and when one of their own dies the lie silently by the carcass as if giving their last respect to a fallen hero. Also In the same way that humans are left or right-handed, elephants are left or right-tusked. The dominant tusk is known as the major tusk, and is usually shorter than the other tusk due to wear and tear. Interestingly, they begin mating around the age of 20 living to a life expectancy of around 70 years. Comparable to man, the elephant is distinguished by its high level of intelligence, interesting behavior, methods of communication and complex social structure. In the social arena, Elephants are very social, frequently touching and caressing one another and entwining their trunks. Elephants also demonstrate concern for members of their families they take care of weak or injured members by protesting them from predators who may want to attack them. The Young calves are put in the middle of the herd with each member responsible for its general well being.
The sad part is that elephant numbers significantly dwindle each year despite the fact that their only living predator is man. Maybe we should try to protect this amazing creature whom we could be free to call “distant cousin”, “brother” or even “comrade”. Maybe we could take drastic measures by ensuring we are not part of the problem and refuse to buy anything made form ivory.
Visit: Masai Mara Lodges
Elephants are large land mammals the largest living land animals currently. Recent DNA testing has split the African elephant species in two - African Bush (who is much smaller in size after attaining adult age) and the African Forest. African elephant species are generally larger than the Asian elephants, with scientists lacking a good explanation for it. Their gestation period is twenty two months or roughly 670 days (wow!), with new born calves weighing about 120 kilograms. Their society is matriarchal in nature with matriarchs being the bigger of the females in the pack.
Tusks grow for most of an elephant's lifetime and are an indicator of age, with the Asian female elephant lacking tusks. Because they tend to live in hot savanna climate, their bodies have adapted to this environment. One cooling mechanism of their bodies is to the ears on hot days, and in return, the blood circulates in the ear's numerous veins. The blood then returns to the head and body about 9 F cooler.
About 16 hours of an elephant's day is spent eating, drinking, bathing, dusting, wallowing, playing and resting. As an elephant only digests some 40 percent of what it eats, but this does not necessarily mean that its intake of food is little, actually, it needs tremendous amounts of vegetation; approximately 5 percent of its body weight per day and about 30 to 50 gallons of water to survive properly.
They are very alike to man in behavior. For example they recognize death and when one of their own dies the lie silently by the carcass as if giving their last respect to a fallen hero. Also In the same way that humans are left or right-handed, elephants are left or right-tusked. The dominant tusk is known as the major tusk, and is usually shorter than the other tusk due to wear and tear. Interestingly, they begin mating around the age of 20 living to a life expectancy of around 70 years. Comparable to man, the elephant is distinguished by its high level of intelligence, interesting behavior, methods of communication and complex social structure. In the social arena, Elephants are very social, frequently touching and caressing one another and entwining their trunks. Elephants also demonstrate concern for members of their families they take care of weak or injured members by protesting them from predators who may want to attack them. The Young calves are put in the middle of the herd with each member responsible for its general well being.
The sad part is that elephant numbers significantly dwindle each year despite the fact that their only living predator is man. Maybe we should try to protect this amazing creature whom we could be free to call “distant cousin”, “brother” or even “comrade”. Maybe we could take drastic measures by ensuring we are not part of the problem and refuse to buy anything made form ivory.
Visit: Masai Mara Lodges
Tour companies that operate in Kenya’ Maasai Mara
The Maasai Mara is one of the largest tourist destination in the Kenya offering a wide of activities for holiday lovers to engage in, among them being sight seeing, nature expeditions to learn about the different species of wildlife and plants available or even lazy days lying in comfortable holiday spots with only the fresh air beating onto ones face. Among the large animal show room a number of tour firms operate to accommodate the large number of toursist that frequent the area all through the year. Some of these firms are such as:
African Safaris Kenya: Is known operate all year round throughout the Eastern African region, from the Amboseli to Samburu, to the Ark, to even South Africa and Egypt. Its core business is to offer holiday packages in the Mara for all sorts of tourists around.
Ngerende Island Lodge: Cant put it words
Maasai Mara Tours: This is a good firm because it is credited to one of the major tourist destinations in the country. They offer incredible services regarding the Mara that are definitely irresistible. They have been in operation for more than ten years therefore very reliable. They specialize in very many services among them being air travels from one destination to another and the spectacular wildebeest migration to the Serengeti. The best part is that they are part of the Mara and are therefore able to have the best expertise regarding travel queries and concerns to do with the Mara.
Kenya Wildlife Trails: It is a Kenyan travel company that’s offers organized tours to Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Seychelles, Uganda and South Africa. This one is especially convenient for the travelers who want to experience the Mara from both the Kenyan and Tanzanian side. This will require one to cross regional borders that have different laws regarding migration, emigration and immigration of tourists.
Pollmans Tours and Safaris: This tour company is one of the oldest in Kenya that has managed to survive in the unpredictable sector since the nineteen fifty’s. It has managed to improve its services by establishing branches in Nairobi and Mombasa and practically the entire country. The reason why you should choose this firm is that it offers its services anytime of the year for you to choose from. You can’t go wrong with the firm since it has grown in leaps and bounds offering quality services to its esteemed clientele.
Amicabre: Is another tour firm that has cut a niche for itself in the tourism sector. Its green colored trade mark whose logo is the picture of the Thorny Acacia tree says a lot about them. They offer many good holiday packages for the holiday lovers especially in the Mara however they specialize in game drives and bush walks. Most of their packages are for small private groups who are treated to quality services that is a lifetime of an experience.
Of course this doest not mean that there are not any other tour firms in the locality for one to savor, there are many more however these are the firms that have proved to be worth their salt.
Happy holidays dear traveler! Maasia Mara Safaris
African Safaris Kenya: Is known operate all year round throughout the Eastern African region, from the Amboseli to Samburu, to the Ark, to even South Africa and Egypt. Its core business is to offer holiday packages in the Mara for all sorts of tourists around.
Ngerende Island Lodge: Cant put it words
Maasai Mara Tours: This is a good firm because it is credited to one of the major tourist destinations in the country. They offer incredible services regarding the Mara that are definitely irresistible. They have been in operation for more than ten years therefore very reliable. They specialize in very many services among them being air travels from one destination to another and the spectacular wildebeest migration to the Serengeti. The best part is that they are part of the Mara and are therefore able to have the best expertise regarding travel queries and concerns to do with the Mara.
Kenya Wildlife Trails: It is a Kenyan travel company that’s offers organized tours to Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Seychelles, Uganda and South Africa. This one is especially convenient for the travelers who want to experience the Mara from both the Kenyan and Tanzanian side. This will require one to cross regional borders that have different laws regarding migration, emigration and immigration of tourists.
Pollmans Tours and Safaris: This tour company is one of the oldest in Kenya that has managed to survive in the unpredictable sector since the nineteen fifty’s. It has managed to improve its services by establishing branches in Nairobi and Mombasa and practically the entire country. The reason why you should choose this firm is that it offers its services anytime of the year for you to choose from. You can’t go wrong with the firm since it has grown in leaps and bounds offering quality services to its esteemed clientele.
Amicabre: Is another tour firm that has cut a niche for itself in the tourism sector. Its green colored trade mark whose logo is the picture of the Thorny Acacia tree says a lot about them. They offer many good holiday packages for the holiday lovers especially in the Mara however they specialize in game drives and bush walks. Most of their packages are for small private groups who are treated to quality services that is a lifetime of an experience.
Of course this doest not mean that there are not any other tour firms in the locality for one to savor, there are many more however these are the firms that have proved to be worth their salt.
Happy holidays dear traveler! Maasia Mara Safaris
Monday, November 1, 2010
The Maasai Mara National Park
The Maasai Mara National Park is about 1,600 square kilometers in size. Rumor has it that it is the richest of Kenya’s game parks in terms of the flora and fauna found in the park. There is the grass land, dense bush, thickets forests and not to forget the ever permanent Mara river. As is common with many game reserves in the country, animals have no respect for boundaries with many cris – crossing the Mara and Serengeti at pleasure. Many tourists both local and foreign confess that they that it is while in the Mara that they feel that they are really in the country.
It is a fine country for the big five and the lions as well. Amongst the animals in the park that live with the big five is the ‘Topi’ whose population is around 6,000 animals, a wide variety of birds who form a symbiotic relationship with the big animals. The birds eat the parasitic insects on the backs of buffaloes and elephants that in turn provide shelter to them against wild creatures who consider the birds a delicacy. Also found are gazelles, zebras, giraffes and snakes that complete on gigantic food chain in the Mara – Serengeti ecosystem. The Mara River that runs across the park is a permanent river that is relied upon heavily by the animals in the dry season when the other streams have dried up. Today the park is a great tourist destination especially since the year 2008 when a prominent person in the world suggested that the wildebeest migration should be considered the eighth wonder of the modern world.
The Mara has more than 200 lodges and restaurants with more springing up conveniently during the migration and hundreds of tour operators in the region. The sight is comparable to Biashara street in Nairobi where after every baby shop there is a baby shop but this time round, it is after every lodge in the Mara there is another lodge.
Other than wildlife there are other sights such as the numerous trees species for the biologists and agriculturists. It is a sight to be hold and one should definitely make it a point to visit the park at least once in their life time.
It is a fine country for the big five and the lions as well. Amongst the animals in the park that live with the big five is the ‘Topi’ whose population is around 6,000 animals, a wide variety of birds who form a symbiotic relationship with the big animals. The birds eat the parasitic insects on the backs of buffaloes and elephants that in turn provide shelter to them against wild creatures who consider the birds a delicacy. Also found are gazelles, zebras, giraffes and snakes that complete on gigantic food chain in the Mara – Serengeti ecosystem. The Mara River that runs across the park is a permanent river that is relied upon heavily by the animals in the dry season when the other streams have dried up. Today the park is a great tourist destination especially since the year 2008 when a prominent person in the world suggested that the wildebeest migration should be considered the eighth wonder of the modern world.
The Mara has more than 200 lodges and restaurants with more springing up conveniently during the migration and hundreds of tour operators in the region. The sight is comparable to Biashara street in Nairobi where after every baby shop there is a baby shop but this time round, it is after every lodge in the Mara there is another lodge.
Other than wildlife there are other sights such as the numerous trees species for the biologists and agriculturists. It is a sight to be hold and one should definitely make it a point to visit the park at least once in their life time.
Pros and Cons of choosing a travel agent
Of course we all know that everything in life has good points and bad points as well. Nothing is perfect in this life but we must all strive to deliver quality goods and services to customers ads business people so that the customer comes back again and again. As business people it is also important to ensure that one does not skin the customer dry. So you ask yourself, what is the basic level of expectations one should look out for in a travel agent? I say:
A good business person uses their clout and bargaining power to obtain the best possible arrangements in seemingly impossible and demanding situations that the client presents. This should not exclude tour operators. This allows them to offer quality goods at competitive prices from that of their competitors.
A good travel agent distills product information these products are holiday packages that the customer wants. They also investigate and supply competitive information regarding hot spots of Kenya instead of cutting costs and taking them to poor areas for sight seeing. A good travel agent also stays abreast of the most current and timely promotions clarifying the fine details of travel such as cancellation of events, penalties and change of budgetary allocations due to uncontrollable circumstances. I also suggest that a good travel agent makes recommendations on travel-related options after all they are supposed to be the experts not the tourist.
To say the least they must simplifies the research and subsequent transaction not too much un necessary red tape should be laid in bookings and payments that eventually exhaust the client to despair. After all has been said and done, it would be good for a travel agent worth its salt to enhances the trip with value-added benefits and amenities such as follow up telephone calls to find out whether the client reached home fine. If a customer has come back they should offer a few discounts and reward heavily loyal customers.
Lastly, a good travel agent is registered with KATA whose main business is to ensure that they maintain and produce good services. KATA is responsible for the control of travel affairs through management reporting, maintaining consistency of service packages among registered firms and reliable since it is owned by the government who are unlikely to close shop suddenly escaping with clients cash.
Cash is a very sensitive issue and one must question what amount is too cheap to be true, too expensive or one that is okay? Fees structure will depend on the tour firm as the good ones also sell their good will along with the holiday package. One must be willing to pay for good quality services to ensure that they continue to operate. Ensure that the travel agent is known, Old is Gold is true in this case especially. However, nothing is perfect and sometimes due to un-avoidable reasons such as miss -communication, mishaps occur, don’t despair; things will be quickly sorted out for you to continue enjoying the holiday.
Karibu Kenya, Karibu Maasai Mara!
A good business person uses their clout and bargaining power to obtain the best possible arrangements in seemingly impossible and demanding situations that the client presents. This should not exclude tour operators. This allows them to offer quality goods at competitive prices from that of their competitors.
A good travel agent distills product information these products are holiday packages that the customer wants. They also investigate and supply competitive information regarding hot spots of Kenya instead of cutting costs and taking them to poor areas for sight seeing. A good travel agent also stays abreast of the most current and timely promotions clarifying the fine details of travel such as cancellation of events, penalties and change of budgetary allocations due to uncontrollable circumstances. I also suggest that a good travel agent makes recommendations on travel-related options after all they are supposed to be the experts not the tourist.
To say the least they must simplifies the research and subsequent transaction not too much un necessary red tape should be laid in bookings and payments that eventually exhaust the client to despair. After all has been said and done, it would be good for a travel agent worth its salt to enhances the trip with value-added benefits and amenities such as follow up telephone calls to find out whether the client reached home fine. If a customer has come back they should offer a few discounts and reward heavily loyal customers.
Lastly, a good travel agent is registered with KATA whose main business is to ensure that they maintain and produce good services. KATA is responsible for the control of travel affairs through management reporting, maintaining consistency of service packages among registered firms and reliable since it is owned by the government who are unlikely to close shop suddenly escaping with clients cash.
Cash is a very sensitive issue and one must question what amount is too cheap to be true, too expensive or one that is okay? Fees structure will depend on the tour firm as the good ones also sell their good will along with the holiday package. One must be willing to pay for good quality services to ensure that they continue to operate. Ensure that the travel agent is known, Old is Gold is true in this case especially. However, nothing is perfect and sometimes due to un-avoidable reasons such as miss -communication, mishaps occur, don’t despair; things will be quickly sorted out for you to continue enjoying the holiday.
Karibu Kenya, Karibu Maasai Mara!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Travel Tips For The Maasai Mara National Park
1. Carry comfortable shoes preferably sneakers since many sites offer bush walks as part of their holiday packages.
2. Travel With a friend(s) as company for the long journey
3. Know whether the packages offer a good supply of water because one is bound to get very thirsty and de-hydrated for that matter.
4. Most places have tour guides who are conversant with at least one foreign language but for your own sake carry a Kiswahili manual just in case.
5. A pair of binoculars would come in handy during the parks drives in open 4 X 4 vehicles.
6. Inform the personnel at the lodge about any life threatening illnesses that require special diets or schedules of meals to avoid aggravating the condition.
7. Always remember to carry personal effects everywhere you go. This includes cash, passports, air tickets and visa cards.
8. Carry enough local currency since it is hard to locate a Bureau De change to exchange international currency.
9. Carry light clothes for the day and a jacket or two for the cold nights.
10. Make sure that the tour company is a reputable one and this can be done by finding out whether they are enlisted by the tourist board of Kenya that has seen that certain standards in the hospitality industry are maintained.
11. Last but not least be prepared psychologically for an adventure of a lifetime.
Bon Voyage Amigo!
Masai Mara Accomodation
2. Travel With a friend(s) as company for the long journey
3. Know whether the packages offer a good supply of water because one is bound to get very thirsty and de-hydrated for that matter.
4. Most places have tour guides who are conversant with at least one foreign language but for your own sake carry a Kiswahili manual just in case.
5. A pair of binoculars would come in handy during the parks drives in open 4 X 4 vehicles.
6. Inform the personnel at the lodge about any life threatening illnesses that require special diets or schedules of meals to avoid aggravating the condition.
7. Always remember to carry personal effects everywhere you go. This includes cash, passports, air tickets and visa cards.
8. Carry enough local currency since it is hard to locate a Bureau De change to exchange international currency.
9. Carry light clothes for the day and a jacket or two for the cold nights.
10. Make sure that the tour company is a reputable one and this can be done by finding out whether they are enlisted by the tourist board of Kenya that has seen that certain standards in the hospitality industry are maintained.
11. Last but not least be prepared psychologically for an adventure of a lifetime.
Bon Voyage Amigo!
Masai Mara Accomodation
The Ten Wonders Of The Mara
1. The big five of the wildlife plus the wildebeests: The rhino, lion, buffalo, Elephant and Cheetah
2. Wild car drives in the Savanna grasslands in top of the range vehicles
3. Camp nights in open tents just gazing at the stars and the moon as the paint the deep blue sky.
4. Bon fire treats as traditional dancers and singers test your dancing skills or better still serenade you to sleep after a hard day of touring the region.
5. Bush walks studying the vast and diverse creatures of the earth
6. Sundowners at the camps as you get a glimpse of the highest peak in Africa; Mount Kilimanjaro with its one very steep peak.
7. Sampling mouth watering African cuisines; both traditional and African foods are available.
8. Basking in the morning sun as it tans your skin gently and evenly
9. fishing treats in the great Mara rivers that snakes its way throughout most parts of the park
10. Last but not least among the Masai Mara wonders, is coming into contact with the rich Kenyan hospitality, be it the hotel staff, the Airport personnel or the local people/ local tourists. You will not be disappointed.
Masai Mara Lodges
2. Wild car drives in the Savanna grasslands in top of the range vehicles
3. Camp nights in open tents just gazing at the stars and the moon as the paint the deep blue sky.
4. Bon fire treats as traditional dancers and singers test your dancing skills or better still serenade you to sleep after a hard day of touring the region.
5. Bush walks studying the vast and diverse creatures of the earth
6. Sundowners at the camps as you get a glimpse of the highest peak in Africa; Mount Kilimanjaro with its one very steep peak.
7. Sampling mouth watering African cuisines; both traditional and African foods are available.
8. Basking in the morning sun as it tans your skin gently and evenly
9. fishing treats in the great Mara rivers that snakes its way throughout most parts of the park
10. Last but not least among the Masai Mara wonders, is coming into contact with the rich Kenyan hospitality, be it the hotel staff, the Airport personnel or the local people/ local tourists. You will not be disappointed.
Masai Mara Lodges
Friday, July 30, 2010
Places To Shop In Nairobi As A Tourist
If you happen to be a tourist in Nairobi and you are wondering where to shop so as to take back home some memoirs of the country, look no father to these destinations. They are very pocket friendly, reliable and of course they have everything under one roof. Do not be disturbed by the bogus shops no more! Look for quality. To make matters better, they are in areas where one can easily access them straight from the tourist destinations that are spread across the region.
Nakumatt Group Of Supermarkets: These chain stores are in the best places in the town. The Nakumatt Mega branch sits right at the centre of things. From the airport heading to a hotel room in the town centre, you as the visitor is greeted by this chain store on Mombasa road. On your way to Nairobi National park, the store greets you on the left side of Mombasa road. The other Nakumatt Westgate will also bring the great satisfaction of shopping to the tourist. The surrounding neighborhood is also surrounded by curio venders selling wooden animal sculptures and flowers just for you.
Yaya Centre; is a hot spot shopping centre that consists of lots of holiday packages and also various kinds of goods on sale. From furniture to exotic paintings, to restaurants, to curios to stamps, to bed and breakfast packages, to a swimming, to absolutely anything is found at Yaya. Plus they are known to give their customers top class services. Make a visit to Yaya Centre on Argwings Kodhek road in Nairobi today.
The Sarit Centre; situated on Parklands road should also be a good tourist shopping destination. It is a good destination for tourist coming from Ngong Forest bird sanctuary following the Lower Kabete road, or for those coming from enjoying the scenery of the green city in the sun. It consists of various shops, a gym that is fully equipped, a spa centre and much much more.
The Mall Westlands; though it is in Westlands, surrounded by lots of offices, one should expect that the Mall should have managed to acquire huge tracts of land to build on. Despite its small space, it is a good place to shop for any tourist because of its silent serene, good customer care services for the shopper and a wide variety of African ornaments to buy.
Hope you come to shop, shop and shop; you will not be disappointed.
Safari Shopping
Nakumatt Group Of Supermarkets: These chain stores are in the best places in the town. The Nakumatt Mega branch sits right at the centre of things. From the airport heading to a hotel room in the town centre, you as the visitor is greeted by this chain store on Mombasa road. On your way to Nairobi National park, the store greets you on the left side of Mombasa road. The other Nakumatt Westgate will also bring the great satisfaction of shopping to the tourist. The surrounding neighborhood is also surrounded by curio venders selling wooden animal sculptures and flowers just for you.
Yaya Centre; is a hot spot shopping centre that consists of lots of holiday packages and also various kinds of goods on sale. From furniture to exotic paintings, to restaurants, to curios to stamps, to bed and breakfast packages, to a swimming, to absolutely anything is found at Yaya. Plus they are known to give their customers top class services. Make a visit to Yaya Centre on Argwings Kodhek road in Nairobi today.
The Sarit Centre; situated on Parklands road should also be a good tourist shopping destination. It is a good destination for tourist coming from Ngong Forest bird sanctuary following the Lower Kabete road, or for those coming from enjoying the scenery of the green city in the sun. It consists of various shops, a gym that is fully equipped, a spa centre and much much more.
The Mall Westlands; though it is in Westlands, surrounded by lots of offices, one should expect that the Mall should have managed to acquire huge tracts of land to build on. Despite its small space, it is a good place to shop for any tourist because of its silent serene, good customer care services for the shopper and a wide variety of African ornaments to buy.
Hope you come to shop, shop and shop; you will not be disappointed.
Safari Shopping
Conferencing and other tourist sites at the KICC
For some people, the mention of KICC means the tallest building in Kenya. For others it means a fountain and paparazzi at the gate. For many people, it means a centre for hosting conferences and exhibitions for both local as well as international magnitude. Because it is situated in the heart of the city centre and also close to the major hotels in the country, it is a good location for all these activities to take place.
There main business activity is selling space as it boasts of sixteen conference rooms that accommodate between six to two thousand four hundred and forty four people. Examples of these rooms are the; Tsavo Ballroom with a capacity of 2,444 people at a reasonable rate of 292,320 for the whole day, the Comesa room with a sitting capacity of 7,497 people with a rate of 115,710 shillings and last but not least the Shimba Hills rooms with a capacity of 205 people at a mere rate of 42, 630 shillings. Each conference room boasts of a fully quipped computer presentation facility, PA system together with security guards as well as a beautiful well prepared room.
Exhibitions held in the compound go for different rates which vary depending on the number of sponsors organizing the event and the nature of the event and also whether it is during Peak season (tourist boom) or not. There are also conference rooms that are available on hire on depend maybe for wedding committee meeting and the like.
Being the tallest building, KICC also boasts of having a heli-pad where helicopter rides are given to tourists and locals enabling them to see the city design from a birds eye view. Local rates are two hundred shillings only per person per ride while international rates are ten dollars.
At night the KICC lights up the city with the light from the many rooms inside, that create wonderful scenery.
The next time you have a conference, make the KICC your first choice, you will have value for your money.
Conference Organizers
There main business activity is selling space as it boasts of sixteen conference rooms that accommodate between six to two thousand four hundred and forty four people. Examples of these rooms are the; Tsavo Ballroom with a capacity of 2,444 people at a reasonable rate of 292,320 for the whole day, the Comesa room with a sitting capacity of 7,497 people with a rate of 115,710 shillings and last but not least the Shimba Hills rooms with a capacity of 205 people at a mere rate of 42, 630 shillings. Each conference room boasts of a fully quipped computer presentation facility, PA system together with security guards as well as a beautiful well prepared room.
Exhibitions held in the compound go for different rates which vary depending on the number of sponsors organizing the event and the nature of the event and also whether it is during Peak season (tourist boom) or not. There are also conference rooms that are available on hire on depend maybe for wedding committee meeting and the like.
Being the tallest building, KICC also boasts of having a heli-pad where helicopter rides are given to tourists and locals enabling them to see the city design from a birds eye view. Local rates are two hundred shillings only per person per ride while international rates are ten dollars.
At night the KICC lights up the city with the light from the many rooms inside, that create wonderful scenery.
The next time you have a conference, make the KICC your first choice, you will have value for your money.
Conference Organizers
Tour firms that will leave you wanting more
Have you ever found yourself looking for tour firms and you are bombarded by hundreds of choices some are fake others are poor performers leaving you tired and annoyed? Worry no more because there is a list specially for you to choose the best tour firms in Kenya leaving you wanting to pitch camp in Kenya for good.
Pollmans Tours and Safaris: this is one of the oldest tour firms in Kenya that has managed to survive in the unpredictable sector since the fifty’s. It has managed to improve its services by establishing branches in Nairobi and Mombasa. The reason why you should choose this firm is that it offers its services anytime of the year for you to choose from.
Lets Go Kenya: A fairly new tour firm that has taken travel booking to whole new level on of the few travel firms that actually offer online booking facilities on their website and it works, You make me happy and my hotel bookings such a smooth ride
Maasai Mara Tours: This is a good firm because it is credited to one of the major tourist destinations in the country. They offer incredible services regarding the Mara that are definitely irresistible. They have been in operation for more than ten years therefore very reliable. They specialize in very many services among them being air travels from one destination to another and the spectacular wildebeest migration to the Serengeti.
Discover Kenya Safaris Ltd: this is tour firm that has established itself in the country in just a short while. It is a member of the (K.A.T.O) Kenya Association of Tour Operators that is responsible for maintaining quality services among the members. As a way of giving back to the society and helping the community around tham, Discover Kenya often donates books and learning materials to schools around them and to orphaned children.
Shoor Safaris East Africa: the best part about his firm is that it has offices in Tanzania, Uganda as well as Kenya which is a good thing especially for holiday makers who wish to travel through the East Africa region. It offers air services as well for the customers with such requests.
Pioneer Travels: This firm as the name suggests is a good tours and travels firm that has cut for itself a niche in the industry. Instead of the firm doing what other firms do they took a different approach to wooing customers. Most firms decided to attach themselves to specific tourist destinations hoping that the customer will be satisfied with the option. Pioneer tours opened its doors to any destination but the customer chooses the packages in terms of whether they are co-operate, individual vacation or expatriate travel with the prices based on those factors. Pioneer Travels is also a member of K.A.T.O.
Of course there are many other firms who have established themselves in the country and if they have made your holiday delightful suggest it to us.
East Africa Hotels
Pollmans Tours and Safaris: this is one of the oldest tour firms in Kenya that has managed to survive in the unpredictable sector since the fifty’s. It has managed to improve its services by establishing branches in Nairobi and Mombasa. The reason why you should choose this firm is that it offers its services anytime of the year for you to choose from.
Lets Go Kenya: A fairly new tour firm that has taken travel booking to whole new level on of the few travel firms that actually offer online booking facilities on their website and it works, You make me happy and my hotel bookings such a smooth ride
Maasai Mara Tours: This is a good firm because it is credited to one of the major tourist destinations in the country. They offer incredible services regarding the Mara that are definitely irresistible. They have been in operation for more than ten years therefore very reliable. They specialize in very many services among them being air travels from one destination to another and the spectacular wildebeest migration to the Serengeti.
Discover Kenya Safaris Ltd: this is tour firm that has established itself in the country in just a short while. It is a member of the (K.A.T.O) Kenya Association of Tour Operators that is responsible for maintaining quality services among the members. As a way of giving back to the society and helping the community around tham, Discover Kenya often donates books and learning materials to schools around them and to orphaned children.
Shoor Safaris East Africa: the best part about his firm is that it has offices in Tanzania, Uganda as well as Kenya which is a good thing especially for holiday makers who wish to travel through the East Africa region. It offers air services as well for the customers with such requests.
Pioneer Travels: This firm as the name suggests is a good tours and travels firm that has cut for itself a niche in the industry. Instead of the firm doing what other firms do they took a different approach to wooing customers. Most firms decided to attach themselves to specific tourist destinations hoping that the customer will be satisfied with the option. Pioneer tours opened its doors to any destination but the customer chooses the packages in terms of whether they are co-operate, individual vacation or expatriate travel with the prices based on those factors. Pioneer Travels is also a member of K.A.T.O.
Of course there are many other firms who have established themselves in the country and if they have made your holiday delightful suggest it to us.
East Africa Hotels
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Crocodiles
Crocodile are very ferocious, fierce- some, dangerous creatures. Even words just can’t describe the wrath they wage on humans when hungry or provoked. Among the fiercest, are the Nile crocodiles that are known to seize any prey (even as large as the wildebeest), clasp tightly into their great jaws and drag them under the water where they meet their death. The two species found in Kenya as well as most parts of Africa are the African dwarf Crocodile, the Slender Snouted crocodile and the African Nile Crocodile.
They lay about seventy to eighty eggs but out of this huge number, only a few manage to survive until adulthood. A young newly hatched crocodile are also fierce and can also bite off a probing finger.
Most crocodile species prefer living in fresh water basin hence they are found in Tana and Athi rivers and not Lake Bogoria. They swallow stones which may act as a ballast to balance their bodies in water or assist in crushing food.
There are a number of tourists’ sites that are home to these beastly creatures. There is the Mamba village in Mombasa, the Nature Trail in Bamburi still at the Coast and the Nairobi National Park in the Capital city of Kenya. Visitors are seen at the sides of the man made lakes in the parks that are well enclosed to secure holiday goers from danger. The crocodiles catch prey by playing dead with their mouths wide open. Immediately prey settles on the mouth of the crocodile the mouth snaps shut trapping the prey and killing it instantly. This activity is repeated frequently through out the day until it is full or tired with the later being the best reason since a crocodile needs about one hundred and fifty kilograms of meat a day to just survive. As a tourist one should not assume that the creature is dead and get close to it because with just one snap the arm can be chopped off instantly. Of course there is the Tana River site where you can catch a glimpse of these creatures though it is not officially opened to tourists and is quite a risky affair for any one.
Certain restaurants like the Carnivore Simba Salon are licensed to cook delicious, mouth watering meat from these creatures called crocodiles but it is illegal for others to poach wildlife and sell game meat in Kenya.
This bewildering sight is an unforgettable experience.
Maasai Mara Safaris
They lay about seventy to eighty eggs but out of this huge number, only a few manage to survive until adulthood. A young newly hatched crocodile are also fierce and can also bite off a probing finger.
Most crocodile species prefer living in fresh water basin hence they are found in Tana and Athi rivers and not Lake Bogoria. They swallow stones which may act as a ballast to balance their bodies in water or assist in crushing food.
There are a number of tourists’ sites that are home to these beastly creatures. There is the Mamba village in Mombasa, the Nature Trail in Bamburi still at the Coast and the Nairobi National Park in the Capital city of Kenya. Visitors are seen at the sides of the man made lakes in the parks that are well enclosed to secure holiday goers from danger. The crocodiles catch prey by playing dead with their mouths wide open. Immediately prey settles on the mouth of the crocodile the mouth snaps shut trapping the prey and killing it instantly. This activity is repeated frequently through out the day until it is full or tired with the later being the best reason since a crocodile needs about one hundred and fifty kilograms of meat a day to just survive. As a tourist one should not assume that the creature is dead and get close to it because with just one snap the arm can be chopped off instantly. Of course there is the Tana River site where you can catch a glimpse of these creatures though it is not officially opened to tourists and is quite a risky affair for any one.
Certain restaurants like the Carnivore Simba Salon are licensed to cook delicious, mouth watering meat from these creatures called crocodiles but it is illegal for others to poach wildlife and sell game meat in Kenya.
This bewildering sight is an unforgettable experience.
Maasai Mara Safaris
The Best of Western Province
So yes we have talked about the Coast and dreamed about it every day but it is time we set our sails in a different direction off to the west of Kenya that is little talked about. It does not require a lot of money for the traveler because some of these sights are just natural beauty present all over the region and not enclosed in a park. There are the Kericho and Vihiga district Tea zones whose green cover in the area is just wondrous. The air around the tea zones is flavoured by aromatic scents of the exotic internationally acclaimed Kenyan Tea; while driving you may stop to take a deep breadth of the scented air. Don’t forget to take a sip of the tea so that you can write back home to tell them about the sweet tea. There is the bull fight ceremonies held in Kakamega town by market centers’ streets that are open for all to see.
Further away there is the Kisumu Bird Sanctuary which is a fascinating place to visit for budding ornithologists (in lay terms, these are people who study birds species). The sanctuary is a nesting site for herons, ibises, cormorants, egrets and storks.
Still in the west, there are several national parks that are home to different species of wildlife. Ruma National park is one of them which houses the big five animals. The country’s smallest park is also found in this region. The Saiwa Swamp National Park was created with the aim of preserving the endangered semi- aquatic antelope called the Sitatunga antelope which spends it days semi – submerged in the weedy swamp water. Mount Elgon should also be a national park that is near Mount Elgon which is known to be the best park to view elephants in the caves inside the park.
Which part of the country would you find a crying rock? A rock that cries without any scientifically induced processes or gadgets is quite intriguing, right? If you don’t believe me, take a ride to Kakamega to see how water seeps out through two rocks through out the year even in the droughtest of all seasons.
Lake Victoria the second grandest of all fresh water lakes in the world is also found in Western province. Covering an unbelievable area of seventy thousand square kilometers the lake has been known to be able to pull visitors from far and wide.
Kakamega forest which is tirelessly been conserved by the government is amazing. It is the last of the Equatorial forest in Kenya that used to span all the way from DRC Congo is a no miss for anyone. Take a walk inside the park to view the three hundred species of birds, three hundred and fifty indigenous tree species and 400 butterfly species. Among the wildlife are the cheeky, endangered De Brazza, Vervet and the black and white Colobus monkey. Also available are countless picnic sites for the family to enjoy.
The famous archeological site where full human remains of the homo erectus man were found is also in Western Kenya. Though the town is almost deserted you take relief of the fact that there is a luxurious Rusinga Island Club for a nights rest.
Lastly there are many hotels and lodges for the traveller to lay her head. These are such as Mfangano Island Camps, Kakamega Sports clubs and the Golf Hotel Kakamega.
See you soon in Western Dear Traveler!
Further away there is the Kisumu Bird Sanctuary which is a fascinating place to visit for budding ornithologists (in lay terms, these are people who study birds species). The sanctuary is a nesting site for herons, ibises, cormorants, egrets and storks.
Still in the west, there are several national parks that are home to different species of wildlife. Ruma National park is one of them which houses the big five animals. The country’s smallest park is also found in this region. The Saiwa Swamp National Park was created with the aim of preserving the endangered semi- aquatic antelope called the Sitatunga antelope which spends it days semi – submerged in the weedy swamp water. Mount Elgon should also be a national park that is near Mount Elgon which is known to be the best park to view elephants in the caves inside the park.
Which part of the country would you find a crying rock? A rock that cries without any scientifically induced processes or gadgets is quite intriguing, right? If you don’t believe me, take a ride to Kakamega to see how water seeps out through two rocks through out the year even in the droughtest of all seasons.
Lake Victoria the second grandest of all fresh water lakes in the world is also found in Western province. Covering an unbelievable area of seventy thousand square kilometers the lake has been known to be able to pull visitors from far and wide.
Kakamega forest which is tirelessly been conserved by the government is amazing. It is the last of the Equatorial forest in Kenya that used to span all the way from DRC Congo is a no miss for anyone. Take a walk inside the park to view the three hundred species of birds, three hundred and fifty indigenous tree species and 400 butterfly species. Among the wildlife are the cheeky, endangered De Brazza, Vervet and the black and white Colobus monkey. Also available are countless picnic sites for the family to enjoy.
The famous archeological site where full human remains of the homo erectus man were found is also in Western Kenya. Though the town is almost deserted you take relief of the fact that there is a luxurious Rusinga Island Club for a nights rest.
Lastly there are many hotels and lodges for the traveller to lay her head. These are such as Mfangano Island Camps, Kakamega Sports clubs and the Golf Hotel Kakamega.
See you soon in Western Dear Traveler!
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