about kyambura gorge

Kyambura gorge is the only place within Queen Elizabeth national park where tourists can encounter habituated chimpanzees while in Uganda. The gorge is a tropical forest found on the eastern side of Queen Elizabeth national park. The gorge which is 100m deep, 11km long and about 1km wide, home to different bird species, primates, and mammals.

Kyambura River is the main water channel in this valley and most of the park animals drink water from this stream whose sources are from the rocks surrounding the gorge. Kyambura River flows and pours its water into the Kazinga channel which is the largest water body in Queen Elizabeth national park. chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge draws it to be known as the valley of apes and this is because it’s home to a small population of chimpanzees and other primates.

chimpanzee Trekking

Kyambura gorge is home to a small population of chimpanzees which are habituated for tourists to spend some time with them. Chimpanzees are somehow related to human beings with about 97% human DNA and it's for this reason that travelers love to spend time around them and closely watch their behaviors.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge of Queen Elizabeth national park is done twice a day in the morning and afternoon, all sessions start with a briefing at the visitors center which is near the gorge. Here trekkers are taught about the rules and regulations of chimpanzee trekking and then armed ranger guides can lead them into the jungle. A maximum of 8 people trek chimpanzees in Kyambura gorger per session.

The trekkers are given walking sticks to help them go through the steep slopes and vegetation in the park. The armed ranger guides lead the trekkers down Kyambura gore up to the river down the valley. The search for these chimpanzees doesn’t take so long because the area is small. The moment the chimpanzees are, tourists can be around them for 1 hour.

During the time given to be around chimpanzees, one can learn about their habits, take photos, record videos, and watch the chimpanzees do daily activities which may be mating, nesting, feeding, breastfeeding, hunting, and resting among others. Apart from seeing chimpanzees, tourists to Kyambura gorge can see different mammals, primates, and birds that live in this area.

For any travelers to trek chimpanzees in Kyambura gorge, they must have chimpanzee trekking permits and these are sold to people above the age of 15 years. The chimpanzee trekking permits are bought from Uganda Wildlife Authority and travelers should try to book these permits in advance especially if they are visiting the region in the dry season.

What to pack?

Being a mini-tropical rainforest, travelers are asked to pack good waterproof hiking shoes, long cotton stocks, gardening gloves, a rain jacket, a sweater, long-sleeved pants, long-sleeved shirts, a light backpack, a hat, a pair of binoculars, a camera, sanitizer, insect repellents, sunscreen, drinking water bottle and energy giving snacks.

Where to stay?

Tourists that are looking for where to stay around Kyambura should know that there is a variety of lodges in Queen Elizabeth national park. The lodges range from budget to mid-range to luxury options and they include Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Kingfisher resort, Katara Lodge, Elephant Hab Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Pumba Safari Cottages, and Jacana Safari Lodge among others.

How to get to Kyambura gorge?

Kyambura gore is located in Queen Elizabeth national park and can be accessed from Kampala via Mubende Fort Portal or Kampala via Masaka Mbarara Kasese road to Queen Elizabeth national park where you connect to Kyambura gorge. Luxury travelers can fly to Mweya airstrip from Kajjansi airstrip or Entebbe international airport using Bar Aviation Uganda or Aerolink Uganda.

Lion

The lion being Africa’s largest carnivore is impressive to observe while on a safari. It's among the top wish lists and each sighting is definitely considered a prerequisite.

Lions are the most sociable of the large cats living in loosely structured pride of typically 15-30 individuals. These usually consist of related females and their cubs, which are often born and communally raised. Primarily nocturnal hunters, their favorite prey are buffalo, medium jobs, and other antelopes. Working as a team lions can put down a mature giraffe and sometimes lack of enough food force them to attack elephants.

As the tagline reads “the king of the jungle”, this is because of its ability to kill and having a distinctive mane that makes look larger and intimidating to other lions.

New mothers are forced to live in dens with their cubs for the first few weeks and shift to new places to avoid predator attacks due to the accumulation of scents.

Quick facts about Lions

Where to see lions in Africa

Masai Mara national reserve-100%, Serengeti national park-100%, Ruaha national park-100%, Queen Elizabeth national park-55% with an exceptional lion tracking experiential program Murchison falls national park-50%, Kidepo valley national park- 35%, Likipia-100%

Top Tips for viewing lions

Lions are well visible in the open grassland in areas like Serengeti and Maasai Mara. They can as well be notified by roars and tracking their footprints.
Lions spend almost the whole day snoozing but become more active when the temperatures cool down. Waking up early in the morning for a game drive creates higher chances but also a night game drive is an exceptional experience for our travelers. Areas like Serengeti and Mara create lifetime scenes during the wildebeest migration crossing the Mara and Grumeti Rivers as these felines follow the large herds hunting them down.

Holiday ideas to see lions

We bring you closer to the lion viewing based on experience and advice given by our experts

OUR SAFARIS

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Leopards

African leopards are most common of the large felines, living often closer to humans but are seen because of their secretive, solitary nature. Having a chance to view this creature is considered the best luck of the safari.

Quick facts about the leopard

African Leopards are known to be excellent stalkers getting 5m closer to the intended prey before pouncing. They can keep their kill in trees to keep it from being poached by other predators like hyenas and lions. Leopards hunt using power and stealth and can easily be distinguished from cheetahs by their rosette-shaped spots, more powerful build, and preferred habitats such as rocks or woodlands. Leopards are not easy to spot because of high camouflage, but when given a keen observation by our experts then your day can be enlightened.

Where to see leopards in Africa

Leopards are widespread everywhere in most countries but are very hard to spot. Murchison falls national park In Uganda has more chances-80% and also parks like queen Elizabeth national park, Kidepo valley national park, Masai mara has 75%, Serengeti has 75%, Samburu has 45%, South African parks 75%.

Top tips for viewing leopards

Like any other feline, the leopard is typically nocturnal but usually visits similar areas for some time. It can be seen during the day in the trees or anywhere by chance. Night drives create high chances and waking up early is also a key factor. Leopards are gentle animals and prefer living a solitary life at a certain age, they can be seen as a family while mating or when still young and groomed by the mother and this brings more hope in seeing these creatures.

Holiday ideas to see leopards

Its an adventure like no other, basing on our experience we bring you to see these mighty creatures

OUR SAFARIS

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De Brazza’s monkeys in Africa

The De Brazza's monkey is an Old World monkey that is endemic to the riverine and swamp forests of central Africa, the largest in the guenon family, and easily differentiated from the other monkeys by its white whitish beard and orange diadem.

Quick facts about De brazza's Monkey

Known to be social animals living in troops of 5-10 individuals, although troops of 35 individuals were recorded. The De Brazza's is highly terrestrial and don’t prefer mixing up with other monkeys, regarded to be shyer when approached. De Brazza's monkeys are good swimmers and unlike other monkeys, they use all their legs while moving around. These monkeys are territorial and always fighting for dominancy, they are 99% vegetarian fruits being their delicacy, however, they also feed one termite, mushrooms, leaves, and ants.

Where to see the De Brazza's monkeys

These are widespread but they can easily be seen in western Uganda -Semuliki national park, DRC, Kenya, and Rwanda

Holiday ideas to see the De Brazza’s monkeys

Its indeed the primate look out, but our experts shall get more closer to these shyer species .

OUR SAFARIS

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MABAMBA WETLAND

Situated in Kasanje village and about 40km from Entebbe town, the Mabamba wetland and swamp is a true definition of Uganda’s natural beauty. The name Mabamba is in Luganda meaning lung fish swamp. Mabamba is famously known as a popular hot spot for birding activities and one of the finest spots that are very endowed with a variety of different bird species hence one of the top tourist attractions for bird watching in Entebbe town and the whole country at large.

Visiting Mabamba swamp will enable visitors to encounter several different bird species including rare, endemic and migratory bird species without going to the national parks in remote areas. Aside from the stunning bird species sheltered in Mabamba wetland, Sitatunga antelopes can also be encountered in the vast swamp hence it has become a sanctuary for these particular mammal species.

The enormous wetland is one of the many swamps of the mighty Lake Victoria and was declared a Ramsar site and wetland of International importance in 2006.

WHAT TO SEE AT MABAMBA WETLAND?

Mabamba Wetland and Swamp is one of the few destinations where birders can spot the rare shoe bill throughout the day. With over 250 bird species recorded in the area, the vast swamp also shelters four threatened bird species.

Some of the bird species that can be seen at Mabamba may include Breasted bee-eater, brown-snaked eagle, blue swallow, brown parrot, black-crowned night heron, African common moorhen, African purple swamp hen and more.

WHAT TO DO WHILE AT MABAMBA?

Bird watching

Bird watching is the popular and main tourism activity at Mabamba Wetland. The vast swamp attracts over 250 different bird species and the rare Shoebill storks dominates as the key attraction.

It is one of the few destinations where the rare shoe bill stork can be sighted throughout the whole day hence attracting a large number of visitors especially passionate birders from across the world.

Birding tours in Mabamba take about 4 hours and one can also watch the stunning birds throughout the day depending on their preference. Mabamba wetland is also home to four threatened bird species Pallid harrier, Blue swallow, Papyrus Ganolek and White-winged warbler. Other bird species that find a home in Mabamba may include yellow-backed weaver, yellow warble, yellow-rumped tinker bird, striped kingfisher, Spur-winged Geese, Sand Martin, shining blue king fisher, red-eyed dove, red-billed fire finch, little egret, Grey-headed kingfisher, Flycatcher, Grey-headed sparrow, Grey parrot, Goliath herons, blue-headed coucal, to mention but a few.

Spot fishing

Fishing was initially the most popular activity in and around Mabamba wetland to date, fishermen can be seen around this area. Some of the fish species that find a home in Mabamba may include tilapia, silverfish, Nile perch, lungfish and mudfish. Local fishing methods such as the use of hooks and rods are very common in the Mabamba area and several fish species can be sighted using those particular methods.

Community walks

Community walks in the neighbourhood of Mabamba offer visitors a great opportunity to interact with the locals in the area while learning about their way of living, background history, culture and customs. Locals around the area are engaged in several economic activities like fishing, farming and other small projects that are being supported and uplifted for the better by visitors.

One of the ways how visitors have boosted small projects of the locals is through buying their products and some of them may include mats, bags and baskets that are made locally from swamps. Visitors can also visit Entebbe town which is just about 40 kilometres away. Entebbe townhomes Uganda’s national airport, Entebbe Airport.

Butterfly watching

Aside from the popular bird watching as the main tourism activity at Mabamba, butterfly watching is yet another popular trilling tourism activity enjoyed by many in this area. Watching stunning butterflies of different species roam in the air is breathtaking and one of the moments one shouldn’t miss out on while at Mabamba.

Mabamba Swamp and wetlands attract over 200 different butterfly species and some of these may include Acraea aganice, and Achaea aurivill, to mention but a few.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MABAMBA

Even though the vast swamp is an all-year tourism destination, the best time for birding in Mabamba is during the wet season of September and March as this is the period that attracts migratory birds from Europe. Much of the nesting and breeding of several bird species also take during the wet season.

The shoebill can also be spotted in a number of areas in the country; Queen Elizabeth national park, around Lake George marshes, Murchison Falls national park along the Nile, Toro Semliki wildlife reserve, Semliki national park, Katonga wildlife reserve, lake Mburo national park, Makanaga swamp, Lutembe RAMSAR site, Ishasha sector, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and many others.

Ngorongoro

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Tanzania holding the biggest natural unbroken caldera on earth. It was designed in 1959 and spans vast swaths of pits, gorges, timberlands, lakes, waterways, streams, savanna plains, and woodlands. The breathtaking combination of scenery and wildlife rivals that of the nearby Serengeti and the Maasai Mara Public Hold. The award-winning film “Out of Africa” was partially shot in Ngorongoro. The Ngorongoro Conservation Region includes the well-known Ngorongoro Crater (from which the region gets its name), the Olduvai Crevasse, and the far-off pit of excellent nations.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Authority’s main attraction is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s biggest inactive, undamaged, and unfilled volcanic caldera. The crater, which was produced two to three million years ago by the fall of a massive volcano, is 610 meters (2,000 feet) deep and comprises 260 square kilometers (100 square miles) of land. The Ngorongoro Crater, Africa’s Garden of Eden, is home to 25,000 creatures, including ungulates, four of the Big Five, and other large mammals. It is an excellent location for viewing critically endangered creatures like black rhinos, golden cats, and wild dogs and a hunting action-packed environment.

viewing Time

The best part is that the animals are out in the open with nowhere to hide. As a result, you may see it one day. If you want, you can even take a little detour to Olduvai Gorge! When you think about it, you can see A LOT in just half a day. There are zebras, lions, elephants, wildebeests, and, if you’re lucky, black rhinos everywhere you look! So, if you’re on a tight schedule, it’d be extremely easy (and prudent) to fit the Ngorongoro Crater safari into your agenda.

Ngorongoro Crater’s magnificent environment, paired with its extraordinary concentration of species, is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Wildebeest numbers are spectacular (far over a million). Spectacular wildebeest numbers (far over one million animals) travel through the property as part of the annual migration of wildebeest across the Serengeti ecosystem to calve on the short grasses straddling the Conservation Area, a genuinely awe natural event to witness.

How to get to Conservation Area

The wildlife sanctuary is located on the northern Tanzania safari circuit, roughly 153 kilometers west of Arusha, Tanzania’s main tourist town. The Ngorongoro Conservation Reserve, a one-of-a-kind safari destination in Tanzania, is part of the beautiful Serengeti ecosystem, and the Ndutu region connects the reserve with the southern portions of the Serengeti National Park. The Serengeti National Park is bordered by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is 50 km from Lake Manyara National Park, 139 km from Tarangire National Park, and 213 km from Arusha National Park.

Road transportation

The road from Arusha to the Lodore entrance gate is 160 kilometers long and the entire route is now paved and takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours to drive. Unless you stay on the major gravel routes, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required to enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park. Travel from Nairobi to Ngorongoro takes approximately 7-8 hours and covers a distance of more than 400 kilometers. Driving alone might be exhausting, and you’ll have to look for gas stations. A better option would be to fly into Nairobi and then connect with a local airline to Arusha. Arusha Airport (ARK) is a small airport, although it is the closest to Ngorongoro Crater. It is accessible by regional jet from one of the closest international airports.

The distance between Arusha airport and Ngorongoro Crater is approximately 170 kilometers. It’s about a three-hour drive. Be advised that the roads are in poor condition and that you may encounter gravel.

Using an airplane

You must fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Moshi, which is located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. From there, charter planes, taxis, and free shuttle services are available. The distance between Moshi and Arusha is approximately 55 kilometers. You will arrive at Arusha, the gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit, about one hour from the airport.

Descend into the crater. The main route to the crater is the Senate Drop Road, which enters the crater from the west. To get out, take the Lelai Ascent Road, which starts south of Lake Magadi and leads to the rim near the park headquarters. Lemala Strait is located on the northeast side of the crater near Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge and is used for both ascent and descent.

Fly to Zanzibar

if you want to combine a safari adventure with a beach getaway. Get to Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania is well known for its Serengeti National Park, and good reason. But something is moving in the air as Ngorongoro falls into the crater, your hair is standing on end. The wildlife interactions here will shuffle around you, so expect your head to bobble from the first minute to the end. The crater’s confined nature effectively creates its environment. Ngorongoro Crater and the surrounding reserve are easily reached by plane or vehicle.

Best time to go

Wildlife can be seen at any time of the year in the Ngorongoro Crater, but May to October is drier and less grassy, allowing wildlife to be closer.

Business hours

The gates open at 6 am and descend at 4 pm. All vehicles must leave the crater by 6 pm. officially, you can stay in the crater for up to six hours, but this is rarely enforced. Self-drivers must hire a park ranger for the crater ($23.60 per vehicle). Please note that this rule is now more strictly enforced than before. No one perishes and leaves you behind. All fees are for a single 24-hour entry.

To properly enjoy this wonderful region, we recommend planning a vacation that begins in Arusha, Nairobi, or Entebbe-Uganda this way; you will be able to discover the best of it! Another approach to making the most of your trip to the area is to include an overland excursion in your itinerary. This allows you to blend animal viewing with culture and scenery.

Activities in the Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most diverse wildlife and cultural heritage. True adventurers must visit this wonderful place. The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s biggest complete crater, is the principal attraction of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Ngorongoro Crater is a spectacular natural phenomenon, measuring approximately 20 kilometers in diameter, 600 meters in depth, and covering an area of 300 square kilometers. Some suggest that it was taller before erupting than Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Tourists may do a lot in the Ngorongoro Crater. Despite being one of the world’s few calderas, Ngorongoro is unique in that it is the world’s largest entirely intact caldera that has not yet transformed into a lake.

Game drives

A safari to Ngorongoro is highly recommended because it is one of the most likely sites in Tanzania to witness the endangered black rhino surviving in this gorgeous and protected environment. It is now one of the few remaining sites where it can breed in the wild. You’ll get another chance to see leopards and magnificent black-manned lions. Many flamingos are also drawn to Lake Magadi’s soda water. It is now one of the few remaining sites where it can breed in the wild.

The crater wall is 600 meters high

Visitors are driven down into the crater through a series of zigzagging roadways. This ride is exhilarating in and of itself, with its hairpin twists. When you approach the crater floor, you can see the many species that were too small to see from the rim. Your safari guide will take you on a tour of the crater’s numerous regions, including Lake Magadi and Lerai Forest. Aside from the Big 5, watch for wildebeests, zebras, elands, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, hippos, flamingos, baboons, jackals, and hyenas.

While visitors are not permitted to trek into the Ngorongoro Crater, they are permitted to take guided excursions along the crater wall. The upper rim is densely forested, with tropical trees, shrubs, and creepers growing in abundance. The rim is a stunning area of the crater, teeming with birds and other species, including the occasional leopard. You might spot a martial eagle, olive sunbirds, cinnamon-chested bee-eaters, European rollers, and many others.

Olduvai Gorge & Migratory Sand land Tour

Olduvai Gorge is a 48-kilometer-long gorge located just north of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area’s south-northeast-west route. Ngorongoro Crater is only about a half-hour drive from the Serengeti, making it an ideal location for exercise and exploration.

Bird watching

Your avian companion has arrived! This caldera is home to 500 different bird species. You name it; ostriches, Congo gooses, secretary birds, etc. Visit between November and April to see the many migrating birds that reside here.

The Masai village

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established in part to conserve the Maasai ecosystem, which had been repurposed from the Serengeti Plains. They are nomadic by nature, erecting temporary communities in the form of circular houses known as bomas. We now have the option to visit some of these, which are open to tourists. You can observe how the huts are erected in a tight order based on the wives’ chronology and how they rely on the warmth and energy of the fire. The Masai have lived in what is now the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for centuries. They have a very distinct culture steeped in tradition because they have resisted changing their culture. In contrast to the Maasai, who live further east and have adopted a certain Western way of life, the NCA Maasai live a very traditional way of life.

Photography

Photographers are recommended to bring essential video and photography equipment. Because all off-road driving is restricted in this location, a camera with a telephoto lens is advised. Because of the dusty environment, it is advised that you bring safety equipment such as a dust mask. evening and morning hours are the most recommended photography recommended times. It is strictly forbidden to photograph Maasai people along the road. This is permitted at approved sites such as cultural bomas. Bring a couple of devices with fully charged batteries and lots of storage space. Tanzania is well known for its Serengeti National Park, and good reason. But something is moving in the air as Ngorongoro falls into the crater.

Safari on and around Lake Ndutu

The Serengeti National Park shares the Ngorongoro Conservation Area’s northern border. The two protected areas share an environment and are not separated by a fence. In reality, the only barrier is a gravel road. As a result, many of the wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes that make up the Great Wildlife Migration migrate to the northern area of NCA surrounding Lake Ndutu in the summer to feed on its nutrient-rich grasses. It’s a must-visit area during the calving season of January to march as the wild roars with all predators following these grazers.

Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Rwanda are basically held in the ultimate Nyungwe forest National park. The Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trek primarily starts at three reception centers called Kitabi, Uwinka, and Gisakura. All visitors going on chimpanzee treks are expected to arrive at the Park Center early in the morning. Your driver-guide will pick you up at your respective hotel/safari lodge and take you to the starting point of the hike. There you will meet your ranger guide and receive a keen briefing.

Before embarking on the chimpanzee trek, you will be led by a ranger guide to locate the chimpanzees. Follow your guide’s instructions and hike through a dense tropical forest. After trekking to the chimpanzee, trekkers are given a maximum of 1 hour in the presence of the primates.

During this time, observe how chimpanzees live and interact with nature. Chimpanzees share about 98% of their DNA with humans, so don’t be surprised if they display some human-like traits. If you decide to go chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, the familiar chimpanzee group in the Nyungwe forest has around 60 individuals, but it is difficult to see due to the rugged terrain. Habitual groups of Cyamudongo are small, about 30 individuals, but there have been some successful sightings. The chimpanzee trekking permit costs 100$ for one night, 150$ for 2 nights, 200$ for 3 nights. Please note that this is the cost of the permit, not the cost of the tour.

The minimum age for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is 16 years old. Remember to bring walking shoes and clothing, including a rain jacket. The Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trek is a wonderful activity and not to be missed when visiting Rwanda. Other than Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Rwanda, there are many incredible activities included in the Rwanda Tour such as Gorilla Trekking, Bird Watching, Kigali City Tour, Rwanda Game Safari, Nyungwe Canopy Walk, lake Kivu visit, Gishwati mukura national park and many others

Lake Naivasha is a popular safari tourism destination in Kenya in Nakuru County 93 kilometers northwest of Nairobi famous for its high flamingo and hippopotamus populations. The RAMSAR site name Naivasha is derived from the Maasai phrase NaiPosha, which means “turbulent water” Naivasha is a popular tourist destination since it is close to Nairobi and has a varied selection of attractions for everyone, making it a great place to visit.

Vacationers come to Naivasha for various reasons, one of which is that the majority of the vacationers experience the boat journey safari that takes place on Lake Naivasha. At some point in the pastime, the vacationers do experience the viewing of over 1500 hippos, as well as the vacationers can experience taking photographs that are the best ones while on the water sport. Visitors can also enjoy the chicken looks of the many chicken species throughout Lake Naivasha, which has over 400 chicken species, including the most colorful and beautiful chicken species such as weavers, cormorants, large kingfishers, Hammerkops, pelicans, and others.

Kigio Sanctuary

Kigio originates from the area where the community that owns it comes from. Local communities may have more ecotourism income the fee that tourists pay to visit the Kigio Wildlife Sanctuary helps the community and helps cover costs. This conservancy lies between Nakuru and Naivasha.

Lake Sonachi

Known as Sonachi, is a small saline-alkaline lake in a huge volcanic crater with intact flanks located immediately west of Lake Naivasha. Crater Lake is privately owned and managed as a sanctuary, with the lake's most exclusive tiny tent sites. On a safari to Crater Lake, guests can experience amazing vistas rimmed by acacia trees that decorate the lake's edge. Tourists on the Kenya Safari to Naivasha's Crater Lake will also get the opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife located in the volcanic crater, such as giraffes, antelopes, Thomson's gazelles, and colobus monkeys. Tourists, on the other hand, can enjoy a walking safari that takes about 1.5 hours to travel through the hills to Crater Lake, during which they can witness many types of animals and birds.

Is virtually on Lake Naivasha's shoreline, with plenty of magnificent shade from acacia trees and hills, allowing travelers to enjoy spectacular views of the lake and nearby places during their safari. Camping provides the best lodging alternatives in the form of cabins, camps, and tents, and meals can be served in large amounts.

Crescent Island

Crescent Island, a nature refuge, is located on Lake Naivasha's eastern shore. Crescent Island was constructed after Lake Naivasha's water level dropped so much that it became part of the mainland. The crescent-shaped island is highly convenient for safari travelers, and it contains some of the best game viewing spots for numerous animal species such as impalas, zebras, and giraffes. The crescent-shaped island is particularly convenient for safari travelers, and the island boasts some of the best game viewing spots for numerous animal species such as impalas, zebras, and giraffes, as well as other birds and aquatic life. Look for the island's distinctive hippos. Bird lovers frequently run bird-viewing excursions, particularly on Crescent Island, where you may see egrets and ospreys.

Located south of Lake Naivasha and is home to a diverse range of Kenyan wildlife safaris and bird species. Tourists visit the park for the breathtaking scenery, which includes towering cliffs, canyons, rock towers, and bursting plumes of geothermal steam. Safaris to Hell's Gate National Park allow visitors to see zebras, Thomson's gazelle, hartebeest, African buffalo, eland, and many other animal species. Lake Oloiden is a tiny lake located adjacent to Lake Naivasha. Because what happens in Lake Naivasha must also affect Lake Oloiden, the two lakes are like twins. Lake Oloiden is popular with tourists because of its clean water. Purple flamingo colonies have given way to flocks of freshwater birds, including approximately 400 flamingos. Purple flamingo flocks have given way to flocks of freshwater birds, including over 400 species such as African fish eagles, herons, storks, pelicans, and others. Lake Oloiden is famous for having some of the nicest spots in the Great Rift Valley. A variety of quality campgrounds with a variety of facilities are available here, making a tourist camping safari highly effective.

Hippo point

Hippo Point is a great private wildlife conservancy that sits on an isthmus between Lake Naivasha and Lake Oloiden. Tourists on safari enjoy the breathtaking views of Oloiden Bay and get up close and personal with hippos, zebra, and giraffes at the foot of the eight-story, 120-foot tower, which is ideal for a family looking for a unique luxury safari experience or lovers looking for a romantic gateway.

Explore from above the plains of Maasai Mara as you enjoy the endless landscapes and wildlife around the reserve. The hour-long journey concludes with a “Champagne Bush Breakfast” at the balloon landing point in the forest. The balloon is piloted by a highly qualified and experienced pilot, and the balloons themselves are manufactured in the United Kingdom by a specialized hot air balloon company.Hot air balloon safaris in Masai Mara Kenya are usually limited to a maximum number of sixteen passengers per balloon, or less if flying with a smaller basket, it is recommended to reserve in advance.

In any scenario, a hot air balloon flight is thrilling

A hot air balloon safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve, on the other hand, is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Adventurers are strongly urged to remain at the reserve for at least three days to allow time for this excursion as well as other safari activities such as game drives, bush walks, and village visits. Furthermore, because he only has 16 balloon passengers, hot air balloon flights must be pre-arranged by the person in charge of Africa trips to ensure availability. Adults and children can fit inside balloons, although there are some constraints. Children under the age of four must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Adults are advised to participate. Adults should be in decent physical shape. Adults weighing more than 120 kg (265 lbs) may require an additional seat in the balloon for safety reasons (double the cost).

great migration Aerial Viewing

There is an opportunity to view the Great Migration when flying above the African plains between July and October. Nothing compares to this phenomenon. One of the greatest ways to see what is going on is to fly above the herds in a hot air balloon. Some of the most exciting things to see are lions hunting their prey, leopards poised high in trees, and bustling hyena dens. Every hot air balloon journey allows you to discover new sights. When your pilot flies lower, the best photos will be taken.

Ballon staff and Envelope

We provide broad information on how hot air balloons function and what to expect from customers who have never taken a hot air balloon tour in Africa or elsewhere. Launch and recovery often take 20–25 people. When you arrive at the launch site, you might be able to see the balloon, also known as the “envelope,” expand. The ground crew spreads and opens the envelope on the floor. A big fan is employed to partially inflate the envelope.

Attach the basket and burner when the envelope is about half full. During inflation, the basket remains perfectly bonded to the ground. Use a burner to fully inflate the envelope. The enormous size of the balloons is immediately noticeable, as is watching them inflate and deflate. The staff will assist passengers on board once the balloon has been fully inflated. For your convenience and protection, the balloon basket is separated into many parts. While the pilot informs you and the other guests about safety, a ground team stabilizes the balloon. When everyone is ready, the burners are turned back on, and the balloon begins to hover above the earth.

ballon fees and flight time

Hot air balloon rides are prohibitively expensive, especially in isolated regions such as the Masai Mara, costing $450 per person or even more for a single flight of the balloon as the fuel prices to operate the balloons also make it more expensive. The balloons are decommissioned after around 8:50 hours of flight, and fresh balloons must be acquired to maintain the safety of individuals on board. Six crew members and a licensed balloon pilot make up the crew

Other works behind the scenes (per balloon) to propel each hot air balloon into the sky. The sum represents the entire population whose livelihood is dependent on money from hot air balloon flights. In addition, each hot air balloon flight necessitates the use of recovery vehicles, transfer vehicles, and backup operations. In addition, maintenance expenses account for a significant portion of the cost of a hot air balloon flight

The basket is guided by the crew until the balloon is safely launched, Balloons rely on air currents such as wind speed and direction, and only up and down movement is controlled by the pilot, and this is why hot air balloons require tracking. Hot air balloon safaris in Masai Mara Kenya include a one-of-a-kind and private tour of the Masai Mara National Reserve. The best part is that a hot air balloon flies over a safari vehicle reserve. You will also be able to ride the balloon at various altitudes during the journey. Sometimes it soars above the plains and you can see for miles, while other times it descends and you can see the ocean up close

GAME DRIVES IN MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE.

What is Masai Mara famous for?

The Masai Mara habitat is well-known for its diverse animals, such as the big 5 animals Lions, buffaloes, rhinos, leopards, and elephants as well as a variety of other wildlife.

Birds and other animals such as, cheetahs, topis, jackals, zebras, wildebeests, ostriches, vultures, hyenas and many others.

Best time to spot wildlife in Masai Mara

Waking up early in the morning is always ideal as it’s the best time to spot animals before it’s sunny and windy, animals are also active during such hours.

A game drive in the Masai Mara National Reserve is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see plentiful species and breathtaking scenery. This is the ultimate African safari experience, with rolling hills and huge plains. Throughout the year, visitors can expect to see a variety of species, including enormous herds of elephants, buffalo, and other prairie fauna.

Predators on game drives.

Predator interactions are also prevalent. Every year, wildebeest migrations pass through the Mara for around three months.

How long do game drives last in Masai Mara?

Game drives can run from a few hours to a whole day and include a picnic breakfast and lunch. It’s a sight to behold if you’re lucky enough to witness nature’s grandest spectacle, the wildebeest migration.

The great wildebeest migration in Masai Mara

Every year, from July to November, more than two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate between Kenya and Tanzania. These animals endure numerous dangers on their trek. These includecrossing rivers teeming with crafty crocodiles, and confronting vicious predators.

Calving in Ndutu plains.

In November, the short summer rains begin, and the wildebeest migrate south to their calving areas in the Serengeti. The wildlife of Mara’s abundant habitat, on the other hand, remains untouched, ensuring an outstanding safari experience at any time of year. Lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards can also be found in the reserve.

Which lions are found in Masai Mara?

The Mara is famous for its majestic black-manned lions, which you will have the opportunity to observe on your game drive.

Vultures in Masai Mara.

The Mara is home to up to six species of vulture, one or more of which is frequently observed near lion hunts.

In neighboring Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is part of a vast conservation region that also includes the Serengeti National Game Reserve and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Wildlife can wander freely across this area since there are no fences or man-made barriers, reenacting an age-old natural cycle.

Which tours are the best in Masai Mara

Private tours are highly recommended due to their flexibility and more chances for extensive exploration; however, flying tours are quick and sometimes operated by safari camps/lodges which limit more discoveries.

Travelers with special interests like community discoveries, birding, and more of photography prefer traveling by road. Evening game drives are also a key target by travelers, however, it’s to note the main Mara reserve does not conduct night drives. It’s only permitted to group or individual conservancies adjacent to the park. Hours are 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., depending on which camp or lodge offers guests these night excursions.

Safari providers typically supply vehicles for game drives and other complete safaris in Kenya, especially if you book a road safari from Nairobi.

Which cars are used for game drives in Masai Mara?

Toyota Land Cruiser 4×4 jeeps or minibuses are used. A non-4×4 tour van is another name for it. Some tour vans have all-wheel drive as well. Both types of cars are suitable for safaris and have game-viewing roofs. When he flew into the Mara and reserved a game drive at a lodge or camp, he discovered that some of these camps were “open” on his 4×4 safaris and provided vehicle game drives.

You might notice something. These open-sided vehicles are not designed for highway driving and are only permitted to transport tourists within the reserve.

Tour operators in Kenya, as well as the majority of camps and lodges in the Masai Mara use Toyota land cruisers because they perform well in all-weather and all-terrain conditions.

Why are land cruisers used for game drives?

Land cruiser vehicles can accommodate up to 7-8 adults, with one additional seat and one person seated beside the driver. The cars have several game-viewing roofs, the tour van or minibus is slightly more comfortable than the other option.