African Lion Safari Kenya- Lion Safari In Africa Kenya-Lion Animal Information

With shores fringed with papyrus and yellow-barked acacias, and freshwater that supports protected hippo populations, fish eagles and a blossoming horticultural industry, Lake Naivasha?s beauty is as undeniable as its importance to the region.

A vast range of plains animals and a plethora of birdlife have long called the verdant shoreline home, as have the Maasai, who considered it prime grazing land. Unfortunately for the Maasai, the splendor of the surroundings wasn?t lost on early settlers either and it was one of the first areas they settled, eventually becoming the favourite haunt of Lord Delamere and the decadent Happy Valley set in the 1930?s.

Amazingly between 1937 and 1950 the lake was Kenya?s main airport, with BOAC?s Empire and Solent flying boats landing here after their four-day journey from Southampton. Lake Naivasha is still one of the largest settler and expat communities in Kenya, and can have a resort-like feel to it in high season, when it essentially becomes Kenya?s St Tropez.

Not only does Lake Naivasha?s fresh water bestow it with a unique ecosystem in comparison with the vast majority of Rift Valley lakes, which are highly alkaline, but it also means that the lake can be used for irrigation purposes. While the surrounding countryside has historically been a major production area for beef cattle and fresh fruit and vegetables, today the flower industry rules the roost.

Shade houses have proliferated in the hills recently, and Lake Naivasha is now the centre of Kenya?s US$360 million flower industry. Astoundingly, flowers that are picked here in the morning can be at Europe?s flower auctions the same day. One flower grower alone produced a million rose stems for Valentine?s Day in 2005!

However, the success of the agricultural and horticultural industry is threatening the very survival of the source of their creation, as pesticides and fertilizers are seeping into the lake and reeking havoc with the ecosystem. Irrigation has further destabilized erratic water levels, which had seen the lake almost dry up in the late 1890?s before rebounding to cover almost 1000sq km in the early 20th century. The lake is currently receding again, and now only spreads over 170sq km.

The lake?s ecology has been interfered with on a number of other occasions, notably with the introduction of foreign fish (for sports and commercial fisheries), cray fish, the South American coypu (an aquatic rodent that initially escaped from a fur farm) and various aquatic plants, including the dreaded water hyacinth.

For these reasons Naivasha has been the focus of conservation efforts and in 1995, after years of lobbying from the lake Naivasha Riparian Association (LRNA),the lake was designated a Ramsar site, officially recognizing it as a wetland of international importance. Besides educating the locals dependent on the lake about the environmental issues involved, the LNRA, Elsamere Conservation Center and other organisations work to establish a code of conduct among the local growers that will maintain the lake?s biodiversity. The results are promising, but much work remains to be done.

Its worth visiting the Lake Naivasha Riparian offices and Elsamere if only to support their work in Naivasha.

Robert is a travel expert with Landmarksafaris.com. He has authored more than 1000 articles on Africa Kenya vacation travel. Learn more of your experience in Kenya lake vacation safaris and plan your african lion safari and get a free quote here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/?refferer=ezinearticles

Bird Watching in Africa - A Different Type of Safari Adventure

Although bird watching is an activity that can be done virtually anywhere on the planet, Africa remains one of the most popular destinations on the planet for a bird watch adventure. Specifically, there is a substantial portion of the tourism industry in Southern Africa that is meeting the needs of bird watching in Africa. Service providers recognize the needs and desires of bird enthusiasts and create safaris and adventures designed with the serious bird watcher in mind.

What Region is Best?

Bird Watching in Africa is also popular on the Eastern portion of the continent. The bulk of the tourism is in the South, but a larger number of species exist in the Eastern nations of Kenya and Tanzania than anywhere else. Boasting over 1300 species, bird watchers in Eastern Africa have the opportunity to see 15% of the world's bird population in one trip. While the number is not so striking in the South, it is still substantial at 920 species. This equates to about 10% of the world's known species.

The nations that make up the Southern bird watch areas are Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. South Africa specifically provides a number of government sponsored parks and reserves where avian life is abundant. Any birder who is interested in researching bird watching in Africa should be sure to look at Kruger National Park, Ndumu Game Reserve, Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, West Coast National Park, the De Hoop Nature Reserve, and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. These locations provide prime habitat for many of the countries' 900 species of birds, and ensure that your trip will include many varieties of bird watching opportunities.

When considering East Africa for bird watching, Kenya provides a diverse range of opportunities. From the Central Highlands, which are heavily forested, to the lower lying lakes region, Kenya is a haven for many of Eastern Africa's bird species. When considering Kenya, be sure to check out Aberdare National Park, Amboseli National Park, Lake Baringo, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Mount Kenya National Park and the Kakamego Forest Reserve. Several of these parks also serve as the home to various species of primates that are sure to attract your attention as you keep your binoculars turned towards the trees searching for birds.

Make the Most of this Incredible Bird Watching Destination

As with any major investment, make sure that you know what you are getting before you put any money on the table to go bird watching in Africa. There are a large number of service providers who will be competing for your business, and you should make sure that you are getting exactly what you want. Research the outfitter you choose. Read reviews and don't be afraid to talk to other people who have used them. Do whatever is necessary to ensure that you get the most out of every precious dollar that you lay down for this once in a lifetime trip.

Mike Selvon is the owner of various niche portal. Our bird feeder portal contains some useful information about bird watching in Africa.

African Safari Kenya: Top 14 African Safari Parks in Kenya

1. Nairobi - Tsavo East African safari

Your first African safari day targets the huge and expansive Kenya wildlife safari park called Tsavo. The Kenya safari party departs Nairobi in the morning and proceeds to Tsavo East Wildlife Park. This is Kenya?s largest game sanctuary famed for its huge herds of elephants.

Tsavo East is also famous from the ?man eaters of Tsavo? , a group of Lions that killed by the hundreds the rail line workers in 1890?s. The park is so huge that game drives could easily go on for hours while seeing all the ?big five? wildlife and astounding land formations and rivers.

Your Tsavo East African safari snippet is full of the big five and spectacular geographical features in a semi arid area.

2. Tsavo East - Tsavo West African safari

On your second African safari day, you will cross over the Mombasa highway that divides Tsavo East and West. Tsavo West is a miracle waiting to be discovered in an African safari. It is full of exquisite volcanic lava flows, crystal clear springs fed and filtered by underground labyrinth of volcanic porous rocks.

There are numerous caves with dripping water and moss made from the Pleistocene volcanic era. Enchanted Forests that stand on volcanic rocks offer a cool and welcome relief from the sun.

You will have early morning game drives before breakfast and later proceed to Tsavo West Wildlife safari park arriving in time for lunch. Afternoon is spent in your lodge at leisure followed by a game viewing drive. Dinner and overnight at your lodge and entertainment from Kamba people African safari dancers.

3. Tsavo West ? Amboseli Wildlife African safari

On the 3rd day African safari, you will depart Tsavo West after breakfast and game drive for Amboseli Wildlife safari park a place of stark contrast. Amboseli National Park is in the shadows of Africa?s highest snow-capped mountain-Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Towering way above the park, the mountain is imposing and offers a picture perfect opportunity of photographing the big five with a background of the bald headed, snow-capped Kilimanjaro. The greatest attraction here is the vast herds of Elephant within the park and the bull Elephant that have the biggest tusks in Kenya.

The evening game drive will complete this full African safari day. Photograph over 200 elephant herd crossing the road right in front and at the rear of your car-sandwiched. You are accommodated in the Amboseli Serena or Ol Tukai 5 star African safari lodges or a mobile tented camp at the community campsite.

4. Amboseli Wildlife Park African safari

You spend your 4th day of African safari at the park lounging. Get to swim in the lodges? swimming pool with a spectacular view of elephants drinking from a spring 50 yards away. Your room is also fronted by a spring that elephants love to drink from. You will spend the whole of your day observing elephant behaviour from a distance of less than 50 yards from your bed and verandah.

Early morning and late evening game drives are standard where you get to see the Lions, cheetahs and the occasional leopard-the ultimate prize. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or budget campsite.

5. Amboseli ?Naivasha Wildlife African safari

Day five of this best of African safari package sees you crossing from the Southwestern of Maasai country to the mid-western area and on the floor of the great rift valley of Kenya. You depart after breakfast and proceed to Lake Naivasha.

This is the second biggest fresh water lake in Kenya. On a boat ride you will be able to see the numerous hippos wallowing and yawning while making loud bleating sounds.

You depart in the afternoon for an optional tour to Crescent Island. The Lake is a bird? paradise and has a larger number of hippos. Dinner and overnight at your lodge or budget tent.

6. Naivasha -Maasai Mara

You are driven from Naivasha on the sixth day crossing the Great Rift Valley floor and up the Maasai highlands into the world famous Maasai Mara game reserve. The Maasai Mara is the epitome of a African safari.

Arriving at your lodge, have a leisurely afternoon followed by an optional evening game drive (in most cases nobody opts out of this one). Your game drive is so spectacular with so much wildlife that your head will spin.

Elephants graze 2 yards away from your car, a herd of 500 buffalos stare in unison with a thousand eyeballs mean as brick face, lions sprawl underneath your car for shade and cheetahs mount on the hood of your car for that vantage view point for prey-SUBLIME.

You spend the evening being entertained by the Maasai morans in a bon- fire setting.

7. Maasai Mara Game Reserve Wildlife African safari

Day seven is spent at the Maasai Mara game reserve lounging and breathing the fresh air of the Maasai plains. A full day game drive is usually offered and this will literally drop your jaw with awe.

The captivating African wildlife as found in the Maasai Mara will leave you yearning for more and yet satiated to the brim with safari photos. (You will run out of camera memory and battery power before you ran out of wildlife.)

Lunch is served at the bank of Mara River where Hippos can be viewed as you munch away the freshly prepared cuisine and a sea of fresh fruits flown daily from Nairobi. Such are the comforts you get in your African-African safari.

Dinner will be served at the lodge and entertainment by the Maasai group.

8. Maasai Mara - L. Victoria Tour

On your eighth day, next destination is Africa?s and world?s second largest fresh water lake. This is Lake Victoria, the source of the second longest river in the world called the Nile that feeds the whole of Egypt and was revered even in pharaoh?s time.

Lunch is taken at your lake side hotel and in the afternoon you will have an optional boat ride in the lake. This lake covers the whole of the three east African countries; Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. You will proceed to Kakamega for dinner and overnight at the golf hotel or campsite.

9. L. Victoria - Mt. Elgon Tour

Your day nine in Kakamega enchanted tropical rain forest will see you having bird walks. Some rare and endemic birds are found in this forest.

You will return to the lodge for early lunch before you proceed to Mount Elgon Wildlife safari park for a game drive including a hike to the Kitum Caves (Elephant Caves). The kitum caves are so large that they can fit 100 elephants at a go. This is where elephants come to lick the salty cave wall rocks. The caves are so beautiful with cascading waterfalls at their entrance and trickling springs inside their bowels.

Mt. Elgon has an elephant platform and overlooks both Uganda and Kenya at its highest point. The trees are lined with liana, climbers and moss laden with morning dew that creates a feeling of ?out of Africa?

Dinner and overnight at the Mt. Elgon Lodge, the Kenya Wildlife Service Bandas, or campsite.

10. Mt. Elgon -Lake Bogoria -L. Baringo Tour

You will Depart Mt. Elgon on the tenth day after breakfast for Lake Bogoria with lunch en-route. This is a salty water lake on the rift valley floor. The lake is famous for its teaming flamingo populations and the ever hissing hot water springs. A lot of teams have boiled eggs on these natural cookers.

On Arrival and you will have a game drive, which will take you to the hot water springs. In the afternoon you will depart Lake Bogoria for Lake Baringo for dinner and overnight at the lodge or campsite.

11. L. Baringo - L. Nakuru Tour

On your eleventh day, you will depart for Lake Nakuru Wildlife safari park after break fast arriving in time for lunch. Lake Nakuru is a RAMSAR site, a world wetland heritage site. The Lake is famous for its rhinos and the flamingo populations. It also has some lions, leopard, giraffe, waterbuck, baboons, gazelles, impala and buffalo. Diner and overnight at the hotel or campsite.

12. L. Nakuru ? Samburu African safari

After breakfast in Lake Nakuru on the twelfth day, depart passing through the equator where you will have an 'Equator ceremony' as you continue to Kenya's semi-arid area, the Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu national reserve is world famous for it is here that the survivor series 4 was shot. Samburu is a replica of the Maasai Mara with a lot of wildlife and crocodiles.

Lunch and game drive are taken en-route. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or campsite.

13. Samburu Game Reserve Tour

Day thirteen is a full day lounging in a wildlife park. Morning and afternoon game drives are usually provided. See the endemic ?giraffe antelope? aka the gerenuk as it stands on two rear feet to browse the leaves of the areas short acacia trees. Observe the rare, endangered and endemic grevy Zebra.

Full day in the Reserve with morning and afternoon game drives. All meals and overnight at the lodge or campsite.

14. Samburu / Nairobi

On the fourteenth day of your African safari, have an early morning game drive before breakfast and thereafter depart for Nairobi.

This will complete your full best of African safari within 14 days. This African safari is priced differently depending on whether you want to be accommodated in lodges or campsites. Lodge accommodation is naturally more expensive but also more luxurious with all the comforts of a hotel.

Cost of your African safari in Kenya

Camping on the other hand enables you to sample the real Kenyan tour wilderness and freshness of nature. Lodge based African safari s average between USD 250 to USD 400 depending on the luxury sought.

Camping on the other hand enables you to sample the real Kenyan tour wilderness and freshness of nature. Camping incentive safaris depend on the group number and the larger the number, the lower the cost. An average of 4 travelers pays USD 100 per day per person for this 14 or less day?s package.

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant with landmark safaris. To tailor your own shorter or longer best of African safari visit them http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner

Experience Life At Zambia Wilderness Safari

As far as African safaris go, Zambia is the one that keeps its secret for many years and still keeps some though it is already beginning to take its crown for African safaris top destinations.

Zambia wilderness safari is absolutely an unknown realm when compared with more traditional national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and game reserves. But this still does not negate the fact that at some rate, the wilderness safaris that Zambia posses can be rated as top caliber and may even equal the qualities of other more visited hot African safari picks.

To save you from scouring over magazines, books and online, we have already collected information on some of the premium wilderness safaris, game reserves and national parks in the country. Please read on?

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
In spite of its difficult-to-pronounce name, Mosi-oa-Tunya still has something exceptional to scream for, the mighty Victoria Falls. This sight is probably the reason why the park is named as such, which if literally translated we may arrive at the meaning of "the smoke that thunders".

And the name really says the truth. It thunders roughly that the sound along is enough to make you stand awestruck and if you get nearer, you might feel the violent rushing of water.

The park also harbors some of the remaining rhinos that luckily escaped extinction. And if wilderness becomes favorable to you, you may also catch some glimpses of the baboon, impala, giraffe, eland and sables.

Lochinvar National Park
The bird paradise of Zambia. The credit of being a bird's paradise is given to Lochinvar since some 400 plus species of birds live in here. The big games though are scarce which is only limited to some herds of buffalo, hippos, spotted hyena, leopard, zebras and wildebeests.

Kafue National Park
The largest of all wilderness parks in Zambia, Kafue nurses the densest population of wildlife in all Zambia. Thousands of red lechwe, endless hoard of antelopes, sable, waterbuck, puka, roan, oribi, hartebeest, and vast number of predators to name a few. In fact, the only animal that you wont see in her are the zebras.

South and North Luangwa National Park
How would one describe Luangwa Park? It is simply the greatest wildlife sanctuary in the world since it harbors a biodiversity that is second to none with a touch of isolation and unadulterated wilderness, which makes it almost without compare. Being unspoilt by travelers except only for the locals and some fortunate foreign travelers, this park is truly a sight for creation in the making.
This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Kenya tour and safaris: the ultimate experience

Your Kenyan Safari

The Kenyan holiday experience is touted to be the most comprehensive in Africa. It is the only country that you will experience 3 district climatic conditions namely, Coastal Humid, cool highland and dry desert. The attractions here also range from the beaches 1) white sands, 2) wildlife, 3) the scenery of the great Rift Valley, 4) the green plantations of the highlands, 5) the cradle of mankind archeological sites, 6) No distinct cultural ethical endowments show-copped markets among others.

a) Wildlife Safaris Kenya has managed to maintain its wildlife in natural areas in National Parks and Reserves. The big five wildlife including Rhino, Lion, Leopard, Elephant and Buffalo is all found in these parks Including the small bovid. Among Kenyans most parks include the indomitable - Massai Mara - Nakuru National Park - Aberdares National Park - Tsavo National Park (11,000 kms equal size of Israel) - Samburu - Amboseli National Reserve - Among other 57 Parks and Reserves Nairobi National Park is the only park located within a capital city in the world. Lions, Zebras, gnus, Leopards, Rhino, Buffalo are 5minutes from the CBD.

Wildebeest Migration

The single most popular wildlife spectre in Kenya is the annual wildebeest migration to and back from Serengeti into the Maasai Mara. The wildebeest migration is such a phenomenon it involves movement of over 10 million animals crossing plains and rivers. The huge migration is such that the satellites in space picks it up as a fluid mass of black trail. The Maasai Mara lodges are usually overbooked and full in the migration months of June-Nov.

Lion and Oryx

Some years back a story extra ordinaire caught the attention of international media. This was the story of an old lioness called 'Namunyak' in Samburu National Reserve. The lioness had formed a bizarre habit of adopting 4 young Oryx for days on end. The lioness was actually protective of its adoptee(s) that she couldn't go to hunt for fear of her being killed by the males of her pride. This made her loose a lot of weight but still held on strong. On four different occasions the lioness adopted an Oryx calve after the other despite being frustrated by the male lions and disposition of others by the rangers. Namugaki is still out there in the wild while the 4th adoptee was rescued by the Kenya Wildlife Rangers can now bee seen mature at the Nairobi orphanage.

Mzee the Tortoise & Owen the Hippo

Haller Park is the former world reclaimed Bamburi Nature Trail at the coast. Reclaimed from cement Quarries of Bamburi Cement Factory the park has been fully rehabilitated with conserving trees and stocked as a zoo with giraffes, hippo gazelles Oryx, Eland, fish, snakes, etc.

A very recent and ongoing development at Haller Park has been the extra ordinary friendship between 100+ old tortoise and a young 5+ hippo. While mzee the Tortoise has seen it all unfold at Bamburi, Owen the baby hippo was orphaned after the mother died elsewhere. Now, the story is said that Own started to spend time with Mzee (Old man) upon arrival at the Park. This bond has now developed such that the two, feed, sleep and walk together. They are inseparable and Owen is especially aggressive to any intruders.

Other stories always emerge of unique unions between different wildlife species including one between a lone buffalo and a murderous black Rhino in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. It all goes to show how free ranging animals take their entitled liberties.

Wildlife viewing in the Mara is done in 8 seater Mini vans and land cruiser trucks. The Mara is so beaming with wildlife that you can almost touch an elephant feeding. 1 - years one metre off the road. And that is from right next to the gate. Balloon safaris are the most satisfying way to view the gazillions of wildlife and especially the big five balloon safaris are booked on demand from Nairobi.

ii. Beach Safaris

Nothing beats a coastal holiday like one experience in the Kenya White Sand Beaches. This is especially good for visitors in need of lazing in the tropical coast sure for a tan and swim. Other water sports available along the beaches include - Water/wind skiing - Surfing - Deep sea fishing - Scuba diving - Swimming with dolphins - Jet skiing - Coral garden snorkeling and - Glass bottomed boat rides into marine parks

The accommodation facilities along our beaches range from 4-5 star deluxe with top of the range international service standards. You can make your choice between beach cottages, lodges, hotel and eco-camps

iii) Cultural Safaris

Kenya has a diverse cultural background from its over 42 ethnic groups. The most spectacular is however the Maasai warrior tribe which lives among wildlife in the Mara Reserve. The Maasai have a specifically intriguing lifestyle as they co-exist side by side with very dangerous wildlife. Their Moran warrior culture prepares young initiates into the warrior (army) age set. These Morans emerge from their clustered life in braided, red ochre hair, clad in very colourful red kikoi (cotton fabric) tyre sand als and complete with a spear, they are a sight to behold.

The Swahili culture at the coast is also very unique including their architecture, dressing, food etc. Cultural safaris are also organized around mythical stories like the Samson-like Lwanda Magere, Warriors, the Nyamgondho man who turned into a tree stamp after chasing away his wife given from the Gods.

The Bomas of Kenya offers traditional dances and foods and is located in the city far 1 day excursions. There are also National Museums that have collected artifacts from traditional societies for display in Museums in most towns in Kenya.

iv) Adventure Safaris

And for that visitor full of energy, Kenya offers a variety of high energy, high adrenaline, dare devil activities for that memorable feeling. The snow-copped 5000m+ Mt Kenya is a challenge to may seasoned mountain climbers. There are several built-up resting camps as well as provided for climbing routes. Climbing gear and guides are lined at base camp for the 5-6 day climb.

Bungee jumping and white water rafting is done 50 km from Nairobi town at Sagana/ that is along the upstream of Tana River.

Biking is usually organized activity within wildlife areas from your lodge. Trekking game safaris are also done in community group ranches in the Maasai Mara area.

Other adventure safaris include the overlander camping, off the beaten truck trips. These camping safaris usually involved covering larger areas and gets more interior, takes longer days but is also the most rewarding.

Adventure safaris will usually include camping in mobile 1-2 man tent units. Catering is provided while transport is by overlanders and or trucks.

v) Sport Safaris Kenya is globally recognized for its world class, record breaking athletes. Our success in International athletic gains is attributed to high attitude training. World standard high altitude camps have now been started and caters for athletes looking to improve performance.

In addition there is now a national calendar of Marathons in Kenya that athletes can test their performance i.e Nairobi Marathon, Lewa Marathon among others. Lewa Marathon is especially unique as it takes place in the middle of a game community reserve. The runners are running in the middle of Lions, Buffalo, Zebra, giraffe etc. It is a world famous event that attracts international participation. Other sparking activities in Kenya popular with visitors include Deep Sea fishing, the Coastal Regarta,---

vi) Nature Safaris

Kenya enjoys a spectrum of scenic attractions test the appetite of any nature loving tourist. From the snow capped mountains in the tropics to the descent dunes to the North East of the Country.

The Natural tropical forests of Arabuko SoKoke is a must go for any nature tourist. The coastal forest has resident elephant regulations. Among the endemic species include the elephant shrew, and the little scoops owl. The community butterfly project is also a must see for visitors.

Kakamega forest is a remnant of equatorial forest running through to DR Congo. The forest canopy is so high and interlocked it creates a permanent dark under cover. Activities in many of Kenyans forests includes bird watching, forest walks, camping Biking etc.

The Great Rift Valley provides scenic beauty observed from the Eastern Escarpment. The Rift Valley floor is dotted with active volcanic activity in the form of geysers, hotsprings and smouldering mountains, fresh water, lakes and crater lakes. L. Bogoria is an exciting destination where one boils eggs off the steam of hotsprings, flamingoes are plentiful in these lakes including Elementaita, Nakuru and Bogoria . Preferred accommodation is exclusive camps and lodges.

vii) Charity & Mission Safaris

The philanthropy safari magnitude is growing exponentially due to the increasing North South pro-pour movement. Needy situations in Africa including Kenya are a result of HIV/AIDS, Education, poverty environment, Hunger etc. There exist very ideal projects with which charitable financial and human resources are channeled to Kenya including: - Destitute Homes - Conservation Organization - School teaching - Hospitals - Churches/mosques/temples

Participants in this kind of travel include

-Gap year students -volunteers -Missionaries -Internship programs etc

There are as such organizations and tour operators that handle the traveling, orientation, booking and other logistics of such groups. Others also understand placement of these human resources in needy institutions as volunteers, teachers, interns, missionaries etc.

Accommodation is mainly hostels, home stays & Budget hotels due to the lengthy stay and the fact that this group is more of workers than tourists.

viii)Historical Safaris

Kenya is credited as the cradle of mankind, from where the earliest remains of human bones were discovered by Dr Richard Leakey. Evidence of the earliest, man were discovered at Koobi Fora on the shores of L. Turkana, formerly L. Rudolf. Other areas that remains and tools of(adze) of the human ancestry have been found include Kaariandusi and Ololgesailie, archeological sites. All early ancestry artifacts are collected and displayed at National Museum at Nairobi. These archeological sites are also developed into tourist attractions.

There are also caves believed to have been shelter of the early man across the country. Rock paintings are evident in such areas as the

a)Mt Elgon Kitgum and Makingeny Caves b) Mfangano Island and in Malaba district.

The USAID has recently given aid to rehabilitate and preserve these caves. Other caves at Shimoni have been used as stockade for slaves in transit to major markets in Zanzibar for onward transmission to South America & Europe. Recent colonial war between the Mau Mau freedom fighters is also evident. Bombings of the Mau Mau that created lakes can be seen at Aberdare forest and Buffalo Springs Reserve.

Accommodation for historical tourists is arranged in towns closest to such sites.

Visiting Kenya for Safari

Tour operators have already pre-packaged safaris on Beach, Nature, Historical, Wildlife, Adventure Cultural, charity and Mission, Sport activities. You will need to select from a pre-arranged list of the sum.

Alternatively, some tour operators have facility to tailor a safari, whereby you fill in a form indicating your preferences from which the tour operator makes your itinerary with your endorsement. Accommodation in Kenya depends on your budget and you are able to choose from budget to 5 star deluxe.

On land transport also offers you options between 8-seater minibus, self driven cars or 4x4 and coaches.

I welcome you to Kenya for an experience worth its weight in gold.

Robert Muhoho

Robert is a tour consultant in Kenya and has planned business and vacation safaris for over 10,000 tourists in the East African region. He is a tour operation- major and involved in National tourism policy development in Kenya.

For more information please visit: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/ http://www.eastafricasafari.blogspot.com

What To Remember For Your Safari Clothing

 

Whatever you do, don't leave behind any essentials of an African safari tour?

And that is the first commandment.

The least thing you want to know once you get on board is that you have left a vital gear behind. Safari by nature, requires a number of essentials that are literally helpful while you are on your travel. On the other hand, you may need to drop some of non-essential things since they will only add up to your luggage weight. Remember, pleasure of the safari adventure is not measured by the number of useless gears that you have with you (which in the end makes you uncomfortable because of weight) but by the comfort of having gears that are truly needed while on trek.

One of the most indispensable is off course the safari clothes. You would want to be comfortable during your trip but never forget the protection. Long sleeves shirts are a must. They do not only cover you from harmful mosquito bites but may also cover your skin against exposure to sun. Along with these, you can also have some long pants with you to serve as protection during winter nights (if you are traveling during winter) and mosquito plague.

The number one rule of thumb with safari clothes is to make less exposure to animals as much as possible.

This can be done by avoiding bright colored clothes that attract animals. This is perhaps the reason why most safari clothes appear in colors such as light brown, khaki, light green and tan. White clothes and other colors are definitely shades that you must avoid. They may either refrain you from viewing animals closer or they may attract danger towards you. You can also have the advantage of keeping yourself cooler with neutral colors as they don't trap as much heat during the day.

Mobility must always be the top consideration. Don't bring with you more than 25 pounds worth luggage since you will travel a lot and will transfer from one small vehicle to another. Make it also a point that your safari clothes and gears are packed in waterproofed materials such as that of the duffel bags.

The majority of safari guides recommend only 2 to 3 days supply of clothing as there will be facilities for laundry in lodges and camps. However, if you are planning to stop over some African city restaurants, you may consider bringing one set of more dressy clothes.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

Yankees' Safari Is All About The Tigers!

The New York Yankees are on a mission and they have their sights set on gunning down the Tigers, thus making sure that all AL playoff teams must venture to the Bronx if they plan on playing in the Fall Classic!

While the pinstripers have been on a 7-3 pace the past 10 games, the Tigers have done the reverse going 3-7 and now must contend with the advancing Twins. Other competition is the defending World Series Champion, Chicago White Sox, who sit only 3 games back in the loss column for the wild card spot.

Ozzie Guillen's troops have the toughest road to travel and their playoff fortunes will be decided on a tough West Coast swing this week at Los Angeles and Oakland. The Yankees get Tampa Bay who has the worst road record in baseball with just 19 wins, and then the Red Sox who have no bullets left in the chamber.

In Minnesota, the Twins will need to refocus as the offensive machine known as the Oakland A's invades the Twin cities. The A's are led by former White Sox Frank Thomas, who is a lock for Comeback player of the year in the American League. The former tight end has swatted 35 homeruns to go along with 97 RBI's and a .299 batting average.

The Tigers will try and claw their way back to the best record in the AL with home sets against the Rangers and Orioles. Meanwhile, the Dodgers and Padres are going to slug it out to the final weekend to see who grabs division honors and the wild card spot.

San Diego has a very tough week as they must fly out east for three games against the Reds and then turn around and head to Chez Ravine for a crucial weekend set with the Dodgers. Los Angeles is at Wrigley Field where they cannot afford to slip up in this tight struggle.

The Cardinals have struggled all year in the very mediocre Central Division, but with a 4 ? game lead over the inconsistent Reds and 5 over the Astros, they are headed for another division title. If you plan on doing any baseball betting, check out the proposition bets at your local sportsbook.

Get ready for a Subway Series!

Bob Acton

Sports Betting

Bob is an experienced sports writer and handicapper, who has written for the sports industry for over 10 years. His years of writing for Sports Scene, sports consulting on 33 Made for Television and Major Motion Pictures and his work as an instructor at Pro Teach Baseball Academy, have made Bob a trusted and respected source in the sports world.

SOME TIPS FOR AFRICAN SAFARI NEWBIES

SOME TIPS FOR AFRICAN SAFARI NEWBIES

I was chatting with my friend Brian over breakfast recently; we hadn't caught up for such a long time. Brian is an international pilot and spends quite a good deal of his time overseas. "Where have you been for the last month?" I enquired.

"Africa mate, Africa," he replied.

I was surprised by this..."I thought you just flew to Europe and the U.K."

"No. I wasn't working. I was on safari mate," he said.

I was surprised.."Safari! I know you're adventurous but I didn't think you were that game. I've been thinking of doing a trip like that. How was it?"

"Brilliant mate, absolutely brilliant. If you've been thinking of doing an African Safari trip don't think too long about it. It was simply stunning," Brian said excitedly. His tone suddenly picked up. "When were you thinking of going?"

"I'm not sure. Have you got any suggestions for a safari newbie?" I asked.

"Sure," he replied. "Summer time is good."

"Where did you go?" I asked.

"We went to Bongani on the edge of Kruger National Park in South Africa," Brian responded. "It was perfect for us. We stayed at the Bongani Mountain Lodge..." I interrupted quickly.

"Mountain Lodge! I thought it was a safari. Weren't you supposed to be roughing it?"

"I was mate," he said. "You know me. Anything below 5 star and I'm roughing it!" We both laughed. Brian had a dry sense of humour.

"Okay," I said. "Give me an African Safari preparation list. What are the things I should prepare before I go?"

Brian gave his chin one of those pensive mood type rubs. He paused for a while. Meantime I ushered over the waitress.."Two more flat whites please." Brian looked up at me and in his usual dry Aussie tone started giving me a checklist.

"Don't get too carried away with taking a heap of stuff with you," he said. "Travel Light. In summer you just need light clothing. Winter time, the days are warm but the nights get cold so you'll need something warm. Don't go overboard though."

"What about a hat?" I asked. Brian looked at me as if I was blonde, which I'm not; not by hair color anyway.

"Mate," he said a little sarcastically. "You're in Africa. It's hot. Of course you need a hat."

I tried to maintain a little dignity.."What about mozzies?"

Brian looked at me a with a little more approval this time. "Ahh! Mosquitoes! They can be a real pain. Definitely need insect repellant. Mate, there are mozzies over there that are so big they'll pick you up and carry you away."

Our coffees had arrived. I reviewed what Brian had told me so far. "Light clothing; something warmer in winter, hat, insect repellant... sounds simple so far. Is there anything else," I asked.

"Oh yes mate," he replied in a nonchalant fashion. "There sure is. Take sunscreen. You'll need it. Take loose change when you're on the road particularly in South Africa. Great freeways but in a four hour drive to Kruger National Park we copped seven tolls!"

"Brutal mate," I said.

"Yeah, sure was. I thought I was back home in Sydney. I wouldn't carry a wallet though," he said taking a sip of coffee. "Why not?" I asked.

"Well, I wouldn't carry a wallet in an urban area. Let's just say it's safer not too."

"Got you," I nodded. "Is that it?"

"One more thing," he said. "Just make sure you have id with you all the time. You won't believe how many people get caught without their passports on them. On last year's safari I got taught a neat little trick. One sure fire way not to forget your passport."

"What's that," I asked.

Brian finished his coffee, wiped his mouth and said.."Well mate, before you go to bed at night, put your passport and one shoe in the room safe or somewhere out of sight..."

"What? I butted in. "Did you say one of your shoes?"

Brian still had his mouth wide open. Then told me.."Stop interrupting!"

"Okay. Sorry... can't help myself," I said apologetically. Brian continued..

"The reason you put one of your shoes away is because when you're getting dressed in the morning; when you remember you've put one of your shoes away you'll also remember it's with your passport."

"You're a genius mate," I said with a grin on my face. "That's why you get paid the big bucks."

Brian thanked me. And then said.. "And I'm not charging much for this advice. Just pay the tab and we'll call it even."

So there it was. A crash African safari course for newbies from a seasoned safari veteran. And best part is you don't have to be a "Jungle Jim" type to appreciate it!

Dean Caporella is a professional Journalist an Sports Broadcaster who takes an interest in a wide variety of topics. Dean, like most of us, is drawn by the mystery and adventure of Africa. "You just have to marvel at this magnificent continent. So much history. It's wildlife, flora and sheer magnifence. It's so unique." Learn more about African Safaris and adventures by visiting www.african-safaris-site.com

Which Safari Company?

Many safari companies are advertising on the internet. All claiming to be the best, delivering unique safaris, off the beaten track. They claim to give the best value; and the sheer numbers of tour operators appearing online the situation is intimidating for anyone wanting to book a safari direct. Which company to choose? Which company can you trust? With most companies requiring payment in advance this can be a potentially hazardous decision to make with your hard earned cash.

The whole idea of wanting to book direct is to save money. However, the fear for many is who can be trusted. How to tell the true safari bargain from the con? A personal recommendation of a company is probably the best way to have some peace about a potential booking of a safari company. Do not trust online recommendations many small companies make these postings of their success themselves. Word of mouth is the only way to put any weight behind a recommendation.

Look to see if the company is registered with an accountable, professional tourism organization; a reputable, recognized tourist organization. Any claimed awards may look nice but not be genuine; check them out.

Send off your request to a few companies. If quotes come back that are too good to be true; that that?s precisely what they are. You may arrive on safari to find your car is overcrowded and you have to fight for a window seat. The game viewing will be in a vehicle that is weary from overuse and may break down. You promised itinerary will mean very little and your whole experience of an African Safari may be a sham.

Look for imaginative itineraries. Companies that are interested at giving back to the community; that practice responsible tourism and doesn?t just talk about it; it is important that tourism contributes to the comminutes it relies on for its continued success. A company that involves some genuine cultural involvement to add to the experience of the safari.

Do not be attracted to an itinerary that shoehorns a lot into your time in Africa. The more your itinerary includes; the more hectic the schedule; the less the company knows or cares for your comfort. The only way to appreciate Africa is to do it slowly; spending more than a day at each location. Safari fatigue is caused when traveling too far in a short time with only a day at each location; soon you will be longing for the end of your safari and vowing never to return to Africa.

For a more comprehensive guide to Tanzania, travel, safaris and volunteering see http://www.betheladventure.co.uk Using responsible tourism to change lives.

What you need to know about south africa safari

The land of Cape of Good Hope, wonderful flora and fauna, multiple languages and mother of eminent leader like Nelson Mandela, South Africa awaits no introduction.
There are more than a few reasons that make this country an apple of everyones eye.

The Matchless Wildlife Adventure

One of its distinguished features is the Kruger National Park that invites visitors from all round the world. The ferocious as well as the gentle wildlife is at parade in this park. The park that is the home for the Big Five Animals i.e. lions, elephants, leopards, black rhinos and Cape buffalo, is supposed to be the largest wildlife park in the world today. Young as well as adult come to South Africa with a dream to encounter exclusive 142 species of animals and 507 types of birds found here. This park is the most breathtaking adventure trip for all its visitors. The wonderful fantasy of Jungle Book comes to life for the children when they gaze at huge tigers, rhinoceros, giraffes etc. walking close to them. The park has specific timings when it is thrown open for safari. The place is always thronged with researchers and those making animal documentaries.

Wildlife can also be discovered at the Tsittsikamma National Park. Apart from numerous birds and animals species, the site is blessed with beautiful coastal cliffs, waterfalls and deep narrow valleys. When it comes to whale watching, the experience at the Walker Bay (at the coast of Cape Town) is unprecedented. It is an awesome experience when huge mammals like whales and sharks seem to be at hand. The Karoo desert is famous for its Mountain Zebra National Park that has inhabited some of the most unique zebra species. There is also the Karoo Nature Reserve that has nestled bizarre desert plants like kudus, buffaloes, hartebeests, springboks etc. The lovely and queer ecosystems that include coral reef, shore, lake, swamp and grasslands can be perceived at the renowned site called Greater Lucia Wetland Park. The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park in the Zululand region is a destination worth visiting for all the wildlife devotees.


The Cities that Count

The city of Cape Town is one of the oldest cities of South Africa. The city receives vacationers attention due to many reasons. The significant causes include the stunning Table Mountain, The District Six Museum which is quite informative about the place and the displaced people, The South African Museum, The Castle of Good Hope that has been functioning as a guard to this area since ages.

The city of Durban is popularly known for its 230 days of sunshine and its being the third largest of the South African cities. The city owns a refreshing beach known as The Golden Mile Beach, the Seaworld that holds attractive dolphin shows, the Waterworld with lots of slides etc. Also to be seen is the Time Warp surfing Museum that has a rare collection of the surfing mementoes.


The South African city of Johannesburg has its own charisma. This wealthiest metropolis was once widely known for mining of gold from various sites here. The other pulls of the city are the South African National Museum of Military History, the Dynamite Museum, the Madiba Freedom Museum (well known for the exhibiting the life of Nelson Mandela) and the Johannesburg Zoo. The Newtown region of the city is dedicated to industrial work. But it has the admired Museum of Africa, the Soweto Art Gallery that parades the magnum opus of black artists, the SAB World of Beer and much more.

The Western Cape Province is the area at the edges of Cape Town. This region is swarming with visitors due to the multiple attractions. The wine lovers never miss a chance to visit The Winelands area around Stellenbosch that has ample of wineries. The high mountain ranges like Franschoek, Slanghoeck etc add to the splendor of the place. If you encounter atypical sandstones and paintings on rocks and caves, this mystifying place is the West Coast and Swartland.


The Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of the country and the provincial capital of the Free State Province is stuuded with museums and so visitors throughout the year.

The Western Gauteng region of Gauteng Province receives special attention due to the wonderful caves in this area.


The Northern Province lures the tourists with its exquisite nature reserves. The highly acclaimed is the Ndzalama Wildlife Reserve.

The National Botanical Gardens on the Crocodile River in the Mpumalanga Province are quite informative about the geography of South Africa. The Little Dragon Mountains and impressive rock formations in this quarter are evergreen tourist spots.


About the author:
Mansi gupta writes about south africa safari topics. Learn more at http://www.vacationtosouthafrica.com.