Thursday, May 31, 2012

The Greatest Show on Earth

The Greatest Show on Earth

Not surprisingly, this impressive phenomenon is determined by the availability of grazing, which in turn is dependent upon rainfall. Essentially the wildebeest are taking advantage of the strongly seasonal conditions, spending the wet season on the plains in the south-east, and the dry season in the woodlands of the north-west. However, the sheer weight of their numbers also plays an important role in shaping the environment to their needs.
Members of the vast wildebeest herd give birth more or less simultaneously, usually over a period of three weeks sometime between January and March, when optimum grazing is available on the short grass plains at the base of the Gol Mountains.

The Migration is rarely ever the same in terms of precise timing and direction, as local conditions influence grass growth. This means that the wildebeest may move off the open plains earlier in some years and remain in the northern woodlands for longer in others.

The timing of the wildebeest calving is probably linked to the timing of the rut at the end of the rains in May and June. The wildebeest move off the plains at this time to a smaller area which is necessary to synchronise the rut. Interestingly, the rut itself appears to coincide with the full moon suggesting that the mating peak is triggered by the lunar cycle.

Typically, the wildebeest head north-west from the short grass plains to the Western Corridor of the Serengeti and its Grumeti River. This watercourse is their first real obstacle and gigantic crocodiles are waiting for the hesitant wildebeest to stumble at the crossing. From Grumeti, the herds move north, often spilling over into the Klein's Camp Concession, before crossing the Kenyan border into the Masai Mara. Here again, they must cross a river, this time the Mara with its flotillas of hungry crocodiles. The mass of grunting wildebeest remain on the productive Mara grasslands until October or November. Then, as the storm clouds gather in the south, the vast herds return to their breeding grounds which, by the time they arrive, are once again green and lush and the cycle begins again.

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari

January: The massive herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle are to be found on the plains of the southern Serengeti.

February: The wildebeest begin foaling and they do this at roughly the same time with all the predators in close attendance. Many people only want to see the migration and don't realise that this is a comparable wildlife spectacle. One of th

e best times to see the predators.

March-April: Heavy rains are approaching and the grazing is starting to get worse. The herd begins to move northwards along the western corridor of the Serengeti.

May-June: The herd moves towards the Grumeti controlled area where there is still good grazing and they begin to cross the Grumeti river where crocodiles lie in wait for their annual feast and you find the scenes occurring that has made the wildebeest migration famous in so many wildlife documentaries.

July-August: The herd is drawn ever northwards towards the Masai Mara in their quest for better grazing. They have one more dangerous river to cross, the Mara, before they receive their reward in the sweet grazing plains of Kenya.

The Great Serengeti Migration Trail
Come and see the World's Greatest wildlife migration visiting Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire. The best time to visit is December to February and from May to July.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

DAY 1 ARUSHA
Upon your arrival meet at Kilimanjaro international Airport and transfer to your hotel / campsite in Arusha for bed and breakfast B/B.

DAY 2: ARUSHA TO LAKE MANYARA PARK – 130 KM / 2 HRS:
After your breakfast at 08.30 drive from Arusha with your packed lunch to Manyara park for game viewing. At 1300 hrs take your lunch in the park picnic area, evening drive to your lodge/ campsite for Dinner and overnight at Manyara.

DAY 3: MANYARA TO SERENGETI 190 KM / 3.5 – 4 HRS:
After breakfast at 0800 hrs drive from Manyara with your packed lunch and game enroute to the great Serengeti Plains via Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

After lunch at leisure in the lodge/ campsite or proceed with your game drive around Seronera or trace the direction of the migration.
Dinner and Overnight in the Serengeti at Serengeti Serena Lodge, Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Seronera wildlife lodge, Kirawira Luxury Tented camp or budget campsite.

DAY 4: SERENGETI CENTRAL AREA:
After breakfast leave with your linch for game drive on the Serengeti Park acacia Savannah in the central to the east region. Around 12.30 and 13.00 break for your picnic lunch, thereafter proceed with tour afternoon game drive. Im mid January to February, much to mid April, 95% of females of wildebeest mate to a total of 600,00 then 8 to 8.5 months later those females that conceived give birth on the same southern plains after a long travel. Evening drive to your lodge/ campsite for your dinner and overnight at Serengeti.

DAY 5: SERENGETI SOUTHERN AREA
After breakfast take a packed lunch with you and continue with game viewing on Serengeti Park. The migration can be seen on a long chain approximately 40 Km heading to the south western direction. Around 1230 and 1300 break for your lunch. After lunch have a rest for one hr, then proceed with your game viewing following the move of the migrants on the southwest of the park. Aprox 1.3 million wildebeest, 250,000 gazelles and 200,000 Zebras have been recorded sharing the short grass/ water which is the source of food for the millions of Animals in this South Area.
Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Lodge/ Campsite.

DAY 6: SERENGETI – NGORONGORO
After breakfast with your packed lunch drive and game enroute to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is your option whether you pass by Oldupai Gorge a historical site whereby the early man lived and can also pass by the Maasai boma if you are interested in the real African life tradition and culture, After your lunch enroute adds to the crater rim for your dinner and overnight Lodge/ Campsite.

DAY 7: NGORONGORO – CRATER
After breakfast , descend into the crater floor with your lunchbox for game viewing. The famous Ngorongoro Crate is rich of wildlife, each species have their own territories, so this is a very good time to visit the crater as it is during the end of November to December also during the end of the long rain season. Late April to May, numbers of animals come out for green grass and water so Spotting them becomes easy. Your packed lunch will be served on the crater floor at the picnic site near Lerai forest or hippo pool. Many crater visitors want to see rare species , “the Balck rhinoceros’ , this is the right time, because during the dry season is very hard to see them as they are afraid of sun burn.
Late afternoon ascend the crater for your dinner/ overnight on the crater rim, lodge/ campsite.

DAY 8: NGORONGORO – TARANGIRE
This morning after breakfast leave Ngorongoro with your lunch box to Tarangire Park for game drive. World large mammal “ Elephants are very common in the park, also world large trees “ Baobab Trees” are everywhere on the park. Evening drive to your lodge/ campsite for dinner / overnight at Tarangire.

DAY 9: TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast at leisure in you lodge/ campsite until lunchtime and this time you take your hot lunch. After lunch continue with your rest until 1500 hr, the time you drive for evening game viewing on Tarangire Park. 1700 hrs back to your lodge. Campsite for dinner/ overnight Tarangire.

DAY 10: TARANGIRE TO ARUSHA
After breakfast, leave Tarangire with your packed lunch to Arusha town, there is an option if you would like to pass by Meserani Snake Park the place where you would have lunch and on your way there many curio shops you can stop and buy some souvenirs if you would like, our guides knows the safe place where you can stop and shop. Afternoon drive and arrive in arusha town check into your hotel/ campsite. Late evening drive to the center of Arusha town at the Central Market for bird watching, these birds ( sacred ibis, hummercop and hadad ibis are arriving from Lake Natron, Lake Manyara and Lake Eyasi).
Around 1830 hrs back to your lodge/ campsite for dinner and overnight.

DAY 11: ARUSHA – AIRPORT – HOME
After breakfast, at leisure in the lodge/ campsite or Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for you flight back home.

Our Pricing Includes:
Transport & Transfers in a safari van with a pop-up roof
Three meals a day
Park entrance fees
Driver's allowances
Service of an English speaking professional guide/Driver

Our Pricing Excludes
International flights to/from your home
Tips & gratitude’s
Airport transfers
Personal insurance
Alcoholic drinks
Accommodation before & after the safari.

Serengeti Wildebeest migration Safaris, Maasai Mara migration safari, Wildebeest migration, Serengeti wildlife migration Serengeti, Animal Migration Safari

Wildebeest Migration - The Migration Made Simple

Wildebeest location updates (see below) and a month by month guide to lodges and camps giving you the best opportunity to witness the east Africa’s wildebeest migration.

The endless plains of east Africa are the setting for the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle - the 1.5 million animal ungulate (wildebeest) migration. From the vast Serengeti plains to the champagne colored hills of Kenya’s Masai Mara over 1.4 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra and gazelle, relentlessly tracked by Africa’s great predators, migrate in a clockwise fashion over 1,800 miles each year in search of rain ripened grass.

There is no real beginning or end to a wildebeest's journey. Its life is an endless pilgrimage, a constant search for food and water. The only beginning is at the moment of birth. An estimated 400,000 wildebeest calves are born during a six week period early each year - usually between late January and mid-March.

As of September 1, 2008: The Wildebeest herds are currently in the northern areas of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and in Kenya's Masai Mara Reserve. Wildebeest have been crossing the Mara River daily. Guests staying at the Governor's Camps in the Mara and at Migration Camp in the Serengeti have been seeing hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra daily.

As of November 1, 2008: October continued a trend of cool mornings and warm days in Kenya's Masai Mara. The migrating herds of wildebeest and zebra have grazed the Mara grasses right down. The northern and central areas of the Serengeti have received some very heavy rain showers and the herds have followed their noses in search of lush, green grass. The end of the month was marked by large river crossings as wildebeest and zebra left the Mara on their long trek down south. The herds now stretch from Lobo through the Tagora plains area to central Seronera area and down to Naabi Hill. It is common to receive patches of wet weather in the Serengeti towards the end of the dry season (in October), so the rain may just be this and not an early onset of the short rains. If this is the case, it will dry out rapidly and the wildebeest will head back north until they feel the real rains start.

As of January 1, 2009: The mega-herd spent the holidays on the Ndutu plains however, due to lack of rain, have traveled north and west to the longer grass plains around Kusini and Naabi Hill on the border between the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. When the rains return the nutrient rich short grass will green up rapidly and the herds will return southeast to the Ngorongoro Conservation area for calving.

As of March 1, 2009: As of late February, the lack of good rains has forced the migration to move towards the Maswa Game Reserve border. With the coming of the long rains we expect the herds to return to the Ndutu area and complete calving.

As of May 1, 2009: As of late April, heavy rains have returned to the Serengeti and the wildebeest have made their way back to the Ndutu, Gol and southern Loliondo. The Masai have been watering their cattle in this area and it is hoped that the widespread rains will allow the Masai to return to their more permanent homesteads allowing the wildlife to fully relax.

As of July 1, 2009: As of early July our friends at Nomad report that the bulk of the migration is still in Tanzania - along the western corridor / Musabi areas all the way to Grumeti. Large groups of wildebeest are also up in Lobo area. We would expect the herds to remain spread out until it dries out further (there is still a good amount of green grass and reliable water for the wildebeest and zebras).

As of August 1, 2009: The wildebeest have entered the Mara! The northern Serengeti national park personnel have reliably informed us that the migrating herds have taken two wings – one heading north from Grumeti area to the west, while an eastern wing is the one now moving into the Mara.

As of October 1, 2009: The wildebeest are scattered throughout Tanzania's western corridor, northern Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara. Travelers in both Kenya and Tanzania have been witnessing wildebeest crossing the Mara River!

The Migratory Path (see chart below)

December, January, Feburary, March: The Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Conservation Area is arguably the most impressive wildlife sanctuary in the world. During the months December through March the seemingly unending plains of the southern Serengeti and the Conservation Area are inhabited by enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra. The great herds graze on rain ripened grass. We feel this is the best time to visit the Serengeti.

In the calving season (late January through mid March when over 80% of the wildebeest give birth over a period of a few weeks) the herds concentrate at the Ndutu and Salei plains (Southern Serengeti / Ngorongoro Conservation Area) attracting the attention of predators like lion, cheetah and hyena.

During this period the migration is best observed from a luxury mobile camp in the Ndutu / Naabi area or from Ndutu Safari Lodge.

April, May: During the months April and May the depleted plains are unable to sustain the endless herds. The migration, sweeping west and north, moves from the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti / Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the long grass plains and woodland of the Serengeti’s western Corridor, almost to Lake Victoria.

This period is during the long rains and is considered off season for wildlife viewing in east Africa as roads are often impassable. Ndutu Safari Lodge, Kusini Camp and the Serengeti Serena Lodge are fine for wildlife viewing during this time. So are campsites in the Ndutu/Naabi area.

June: By the end of May the wildebeest have exhausted the Western Corridor’s best pastures and the herds must move further north. Entering the Lamai Wedge and the Mara Triangle breeding occurs May through June.

This is a transitional period between the rains and the dry season. Faru Faru River Lodge, Sasakwa Hill Lodge, Sabora Plains Tented Camp, Grumeti River Camp, Migration Camp, and Kirawira Camp are good options for viewing the migration at this time. Seronera and Moru area campsites are best.

July, August, September, October: By July the countless herds have amassed along the swollen Mara River - a final barrier from the short sweet grasses of the Masai Mara. Sometimes the crossing place they have chosen is shallow allowing the majority of animals to pass safely. In other areas the waters boil with drowning wildebeest and slashing crocodiles. Please note that the vast majority of travelers do not witness the wildebeest crossing of the Mara as the timing and duration varies widely each year - in years of little rain very few wildebeest cross the Mara River into Kenya.

Between July and October the wildebeest reside in the Mara. We recommend Governor's Il Moran Tented Camp as the leading safari camp in the Masai Mara. Other tented camps include Governor's Main Camp, Little Governor’s Camp, and Bataluer Camp. Tanzanian lodges recommended during this time include Faru Faru River Lodge, Sasakwa Hill Lodge, Sabora Plains Tented Camp, Grumeti River Camp, Migration Camp and Kirawira Camp. Kirawira and Moru area campsites are best.

November: The arrival of the short rains call the migration southward. During the short rains of November the wildebeest migration is best viewed from Klein’s Camp. Campsites in the Lobo area are best.

As November ends the migration is making its way back to the southern Serengeti and early in the year they once again give birth. The circle of life is complete.

*Note - the migration is a natural event and the timing varies month by month; year by year.

Wildbeest Migration Route

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Malagarasi river west Tanzania

Malagarasi river

Malagarasi River - Moyowosi Game Reserve, Tanzania

Kihansi Frog returns to Tanzania

World Wetlands Day too late for spray toad?

Today is World Wetlands Day, and the Natural History Museum’s Species of the day highlights a species whose survival is so closely linked to a specific wetland that changes in its habitat mean it is now extinct in the wild.

As its name suggests, the Kihansi spray toad lived only in very small areas that are covered by spray from the Kihansi waterfall in Tanzania. Over time it has evolved to live in this very specific habitat and has even evolved flaps over its nostrils to help it thrive.

Impact of dam

Kihansi Fall in Tanzania © Alan Channing

In 2000, the water flow in the area was drastically reduced after a large hydroelectric dam was built. As well as changing the type of vegetation that thrived there, the resulting massive drop in the volume of spray meant conditions were no longer suitable for the toad.

Drop in numbers

The highest counts of individual Kihansi spray toads found around 20,000 on dates before and shortly after the dam was constructed. Then in January 2004 only 3 were seen, with the calls of 2 males heard. In 2005, there was one unconfirmed sighting and since then there have been no sightings in the wild. It has therefore been declared extinct in the wild by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).

Wet spray zone at Kihansi Fall with sprinkler system © Alan Channing

'I was one of four authors who wrote the original description of the Kihansi spray toad in 1998,' says Natural History Museum frog expert Barry Clarke, who chose the amphibian for Species of the Day.
'We knew then about the hyrdroelectric power scheme putting the toad under threat.
'In a mere 7 years, the toad’s numbers have gone from an estimated 20,000 to a probable 0 due to human activities (power generation and pesticides) and disease (chytrid fungus).
'The American ecologist Rachel Carson predicted that pesticide use would bring about "Silent Springs" among birds in the States.
'The Kihansi spray toad’s Silent Spring arrived in 2005 in the Kihansi Gorge - no male toad has been heard calling since then.'

Tiny toad and toadlets

Kihansi spray toad adult and juvenile © Alan Channing

The Kihansi spray toad, Nectophrynoides asperginis, is a tiny amphibian with adults typically growing to about 15-20mm in length. Most people think toads produce eggs that hatch into tadpoles, but the spray toad hatches froglets that are about 5mm long.

Vulnerable species

The Kihansi spray toad highlights how vulnerable different species can be to changes in habitat. Humans are the main cause of habitat change, which is a major threat to biological diversity (biodiversity).
Current rates of biodiversity loss, some scientists say, are on a level with the mass extinctions of the dinosaurs, and this year biodiversity is highlighted in the UN’s International Year of Biodiversity.

Irreversible changes?

The Kihansi spray toad also highlights how difficult it can be to try and bring back species after they are extinct in the wild. After the dam construction, an artificial sprinkler system was introduced to the area. However, the toad’s numbers never recovered.
A few hundred individuals were taken into captivity and are now bred in the USA. It is hoped that some may be introduced back into the wild.

Wetlands

As well as providing essential eco-services like coastal protection and nurseries for fish, wetlands are home to a huge variety of biodiversity.
Humans as well as plants and animals depend on wetland habitats and the annual World Wetlands Day aims to raise awareness of their value.
Ahmed Djoghlaf, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity, in his message for World Wetlands Day 2010, talks about how caring for wetlands will also help us tackle the effects of climate change.

Species of the day

The Museum is celebrating the UN's 2010 International Year of Biodiversity with its Species of the day. All 365 species are chosen and written by Museum scientists, highlighting the world-class research and collections at the Museum.

Kihansi Spray Toad

Kihansi Spray Toad (Nectophrynoides asperginis)

“… was once found only in an isolated river gorge in Tanzania. Though the species is believed extinct in the wild, Wildlife Cconservation Society has been able to breed hundreds of these diminutive frogs in the hope they can one day be reintroduced into a restored ecosystem. Later this year, scientists from Tanzania’s University of Dar es Salaam will visit the Bronx Zoo to learn how to breed toads in their homeland…”

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Mbozi Meteorite.

Mbozi Meteorite

Mbozi Meteorite

A 15 ton iron monolith, discovered in 1942, the Mbozi Meteorite, the third largest ever found, can be viewed near Mbeya on the road to Tunduma.

Oldonyo Lengai.

Ol-Donyo Lengai

Mount Oldoinyo Lengai

Located at the southern end of Lake Natron, and known as 'Mountain of God' to the Maasai, Ol-Donyo Lengai rises to an elevation of 9,442 feet.

It is the only active volcano in Tanzania. It last erupted in 1983.

Olduvai Gorge

Located between the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, many prehistoric fossils, including the remains of several of the world’s earliest humans, were discovered here by Dr Louis Leakey.

There is a small museum and an observation platform overlooking the Gorge. Guided lecture tours are available.

Ujiji Historic.

Ujiji.

Livingstone Memorial in Ujiji.

A village close to Kigoma from where, in 1858, Burton and Speke commenced their exploration of Lake Tanganyika and where, in 1871, Henry Morton Stanley pronounced the famous words “Dr Livingstone I presume”, it is an interesting site to visit.

Bask in the footsteps of the makers of history and visit the museum in the area that commemorates these events.

Usambara Mountains.

Usambara Mountains.

This little known mountain range is one of the gems of Tanzania. Located to the west of the coastal town of Tanga, the Usambaras offer incredible natural biodiversity, great hiking opportunities and a bird-watching paradise.

Usambara Mountains, with Irente viewpoint on top

Waterfalls in Usambara Mountains

Usambara Forest

Irente Viewpoint: From this famous viewpoint you can see the village of Mazinde almost 1000 meters below the vast Maasai plains beyond. On the return trip to Lushoto you can visit the Irente Farm cheese factory and the royal village of Kwembago . You can enjoy a whole meal picnic at Irente Farm.

Usambara Farm and Flora Tour: This walk takes you trough the fertile farmlands of Jaegertal to a fruit tree nursery where you can learn about different varieties of fruit trees and their propagation. You can continue uphill to the village of Vuli to learn about local soil conservation, irrigation projects and farming methods. You can return to Lushoto via the Arboretum.

Growing Rock: From Soni you walk to the top of Kwamongo Mountains Peak , famous for its multicoloured butterflies, via the villages of Shashui and Kwemula. From Kwamongo you have views of Soni, Lushoto and the Handeni Plains. You descend to the village of Magila at the foot of the "Growing Rock" to visit a soil conservation project and learn why the rock is growing.

Magamba Rainforest: This tour begins with an uphill walk from Lushoto to the royal village of Kwembago , where you can learn about the cultural history of the traditional ruling clan, the Kilindi. From Kwembago you have a beautiful view over Lushoto and the Maasai plains. You proceed to the lush Magamba rainforest, home of black and white colored monkeys. The return to Lushoto passes via the old German Middle School and the village of Magamba

Mazumbai Forest: This physically challenging walk begins in Soni and passes via Kwamengo and Magina. From there, the walk continues to the Bumbuli Mission - a historic German settlement – and continues to the Mzumbai rain forest reserve, a birdwatchers paradise. After enjoying the forest you return to Soni via the villages of Mgwashi and Kwesine.

Bangala River: From the village of Mbuzii you weave slowly down the steep slopes of the Bangal River Valley , at times wading trough Cool Mountain streams that offer a welcome relief to the rising savanna heat. Trough the walk you see traditional irrigation systems and have a beautiful view over the Maasai plains. Before returning to Lushoto you visit a local farm and nursery.

Western Usambara: From Lushoto you pass trough tropical rainforests, the ocher mountains and trough valleys to the villages of Lukozi, Manolo and Sunga before finally reaching your destination at the historical village of Mtae . On the route you can reach several superb viewpoints and visit various development projects.

Kalambo Waterfalls

Kalambo Falls

Kalambo falls is a 772ft at the border of Zambia and Tanzania in the Southern end of Lake Tanganyika

The Kalambo falls is the second highest un-interapted falls in Africa after South Africa Tugela falls

Located on the tip of Lake Tanganyika, close to the border with Zambia, a 215m drop makes this one of the highest waterfalls in the world and, after Tugela Falls in South Africa, the second highest in Africa.

This area is a breeding ground for the giant marabou stork and an important historical site where primitive tools have been excavated.

World of Waterfalls.

Kalambo Waterfalls in Tanzania.

Kalambo Falls is said to be Africa Second tallest free-leaping or single-drop waterfall (second to one of the tiers of Tugela Falls in South Africa) at 221m. Morever, it is also Zambia's other cross-border waterfall(Victoria Falls Shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe being the more famous one) as it's shared with Tanzania.As a matter of fact, the Kalambo River defines the Tanzania-Zambia border all the way into the vast Lake Tanganyika, which itself is shared by a foursome of Countries(i.e.Democratic of Congo, Burundi, Zambia and Tanzania).

The waterfall is in high flow in the may/june timeframe.But this depends on how much rainfall the region gets during its rainy season from january through April.The flow diminishes as the year progresses. Come around October or November and the falls probably won't look impressive.However, under these conditions, we have been told that you could stand a top the falls with one foot in Tanzania and one foot in Zambia.

It is located on the Kalambo River, it is a 772 feet single drop waterfall on the border with Zambia at the Southeast end of Lake Tanganyika.

Monday, May 21, 2012

The Gateway To Africa's Wildlife.

Wildlife Gateway

"The Gateway To Africa's Wildlife"

Kilimanjaro International Airport is the second international airport of Tanzania. It serves the Kilimanjaro area including the cities of Arusha and Moshi near Mount Kilimanjaro, and the international tourism industry based on Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha National, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. The airport styles itself as the "The Gateway to Africa's Wildlife heritage".
Many international visitors also go to national parks in Kenya, to the Indian Ocean coast and islands such as Zanzibar, and to Lake Victoria, reflected in the routes of connecting flights. The airport can handle aircraft up to Boeing 747s.

Places to Visit:

Mount Kilimanjaro:
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and fourth of the Seven summits. with its three volcanic cones, Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira, is an inactive strato volcano in north-eastern Tanzania and the highest mountain in Africa at 5,895 metres or 19,341 feet (the Uhuru Peak). Mount Kilimanjaro is considered to be the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, rising 4600m (15,100 feet) from the base.
The exact meaning and origin of the name Kilimanjaro is unknown. It is thought to be a combination of the Swahili word Kilima (meaning "mountain") and the Kichaga word Njaro, loosely translated as "whiteness:, giving the name White Mountain. The name Kibo in Kichaga means "spotted" and refers to rocks seen on snowfields. The Swahili word Uhuru translates as "freedom", a name given to commemorate Tanzanian Independence from Great Britain in 1961.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area:

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area or NCA is a conservation area situated 180km(112 miles) west of Arusha in the crater highlands area in Tanzania. The crater has a population of approximately 25,000 large animals, largely ungulates along with reputedly the highest density of mammalian predators in Africa, lives in the crater. Large Animals in the crater include the Black rhinoceros, the hippopotamus which is very uncommon in the area. There are so many ungulates : The wildebeest (7,000 estimated in 1994), the Zebra(4,000), the eland, and Grant's and Thompson Gazelles (3,000).

Serengeti National Park:

The Serengeti National Park is a large national park in Serengeti area, Tanzania. It is the most famous for its annual migration of over one million and a half white bearded(or blinded) wildebeest and 200,000 zebra.
As well as the migration of ungulates, the park is well known for its healthy stock of other resident wildlife, The particularly the "Big Five", named for the five most prized trophies taken by the hunters. Lions,Leopard, Elephant Black Rhinoceros and African Buffalo
The park also support many further species, including Cheetah, Thomson's and Grants gazelle, topi, eland, waterbuck, hyena, baboon, impala, African wild dog and giraffe. The park also boasts about 500 birds species, including Ostrich, secretary bird, kori bustard, crowned crane and marabou stork

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Tanzania Cultural Programme

Pangani Cultural Tourism

‘home of Swahili Culture’

Pangani is a small town in East Africa’s coast with long history and a culture with Arabic, German, Asian and British Colonial rules influence. This is a place where Swahili, Arab, colonial traditions and modern hospitality blends together.

Located at the mouth of Pangani River that collects its water from Mt Kilimanjaro and Meru to the Indian Ocean, Pangani Cultural Tourism Programme offers various tours.

Here you will enjoy coastline with clean beaches where endangered Green Turtles breeds, historic sites, coral reefs, Old Port as well as great diversity of tropical marine dwellers.

Pangani offers;

-Historical town tour-Explore Historic buildings of Pangani town, slave
market, old port and slave routes

-Pangani River cruising

-Maziwe Marine Park Island tour----diving and snorkelling + sun bath

-Village tours-a welcome to Coast people’s home and stay with a family
getting an insight of the Swahili culture. Participate in various activities
with the family members

- An opportunity to explore the life of Endangered Green Turtles. Visits to
nesting sites and the release of the hatchlings to the Indian Ocean

-An opportunity for safari to Saadani National Park

-Cycling tours around the town, to the sisal plantations and adjacent
villages

-Fishing with local fishermen

-Evening tour within and around Pangani town. Get an insight of local
entertainments available in the area

-Farm tour-visit local’s farms with coconut, various types of fruits and enjoy
fresh fruits and coconut juice while rolling on criss-crossing the
dominating coconut trees

Where to stay;
A wide range of guest houses, hotels and lodges is available along the Indian Ocean beach and around the town of Pangani. Camping grounds are available in various places depending on nature of your tour around Pangani and neighbouring places.

Tourist information office or tour guides can make arrangements for homestays and overnights in local guest houses, hotels and lodges when making hikes of several days within and around Pangani area.

Facilities for hire; Camping facilities can be hired after providing a one day notice. Mountain bikes and engine boat can be hired in Pangani town at a reasonable price. Pangani cultural Tourism Enterprise has an engine boat that can be available at any time.For those planning to leave for Zanzibar through Pangani or Saadani National Park, hired boats are available.

Tour Guides:- The guides of the Cultural Tourism Programme are indigenous of Pangani who speaks good English and have ample experience in tour guiding in the area. The guides are very charming and will accompany you in leisure activities. Boat captains and the driver will guide you in all water related activities.

Bookings for various excursion and tours can be made at the Pangani
Tourist Information Centre (TIC) located at the Main bus stand. Pangani
T.IC has internet facilities. All Pangani registered guides are found at the
office. Tanzania Tourist Board Tourist Information offices at Arusha and
Dares salaam can assist on booking your tour in Pangani.
Pangani can be easily accessed by buses. There are daily buses leaving
Dar es salaam and Arusha to Pangani vuia Tanga. It takes 6 hours drive
from Arusha and 7hours from Dar es salaam. Pangani is 53 km South of
Tanga town where several mini-buses to Pangani are available.Mini-buses
leaves once all seats are occupied and it takes an hour to Panganito
Pangani.

Pangani Cultural Tourism Programme

Selous Game Reserve.

Tanzania-Selous Game Reserve

Enter Africa's largest protected area uninhabited by man, where Tanzania's greatest population of elephants wander in an area bigger than Switzerland! The Selous (pronounced “Seloo”) is considered important enough to be World Heritage Site, in which the lucky few can experience a safari in absolutely wild and unspoiled bush. The park is named after Englishman, Frederick Courtney Selous - conservationist, hunter, explorer and author, whose adventure books on Africa became best sellers in Victorian England.
The park varies from rolling grassy woodlands and plains, to rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River - the lifeblood of the park,

whose tributaries form a network of lakes, lagoons and channels. Volcanic hot springs even burst forth in places. The Rufiji offers a superb method of game viewing especially during the dry season when animals congregate.

ANIMALS AND AQUATIC LIFE

Selous contains about one third of all the wild dogs (often called painted dogs), in the world. Their need to roam vast areas and their formidable hunting skills have caused many to be shot by farmers, but here in Selous they have boundless woodlands and savannahs in which to roam.

Along the Rufiji River, an array of grazing antelopes, crocodiles and hippos are commonly seen as well as black and white colobus monkeys in the riverine forests. During the dry season from June to October, the concentration of animals along the river is astonishing. Linked to the Rufii is Lake Tagalala where waterbuck, reedbuck and bushbuck gather at the water's edge. Magnificent sickle-horned sable and curly-horned greater kudu tend to keep to the longer grass and wooded shrubby areas.

In the dry season an ancient migration of elephants takes place between the Selous and Mozambique's Niassa Game Reserves. This is one of the largest natural trans-boundary eco-systems in Africa and at the last consensus it was estimated that 64,400 elephants roam the two parks, with 84% on the Tanzanian side.
Fierce tiger fish and smooth slippery vandu catfish are caught in the rivers. The latter is equipped with primitive lungs allowing it to cross land for short distance in an attempt to find water water during the dry season.

SEASONS
Dry Season: The dry season sets in during June to November and is the best time for game viewing along the rivers. Elephants come out of the bush at that time and predators are more commonly seen.
Rainy Season: January to April is wonderful for birdlife ad lush scenery but many roads become impassable after heavy rains. December to February is still good for game viewing but can be rather hot and humid. The safari lodges are usually closed from March to May.

SELOUS SPECIALITIES

• Rare and endangered Wild Dog
• Boat game viewing
• Fishing
• Thousands of migrating elephants
• Walking safaris
• Huge wilderness

FACTS
This massive stretch of land is the second largest game reserve in Africa. At over 21,000 miles² (55,000 km²) it is almost four times the size of the Serengeti.
The only human habitations allowed are limited tourist facilities.
Road access is only possible during the dry season and most visitors fly in from Dar es Salaam by charter aircraft.
Safari lodges are restricted to the top 20% of the reserve.
This is a malarial area.
Tanzania National Parks contact details: Tel: +255 (27) 254 8040, Fax: +255 (27) 254 8216, www.tanapa.com
This is a malarial area.

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Greatest Wildlife Migration.

Dreams may come true one day to see this wonderful Adventure in the World.

The Wildebeest Migration” has to be one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world and it has been a dream of mine to go riding amongst the migration for many years. This little adventure came true in September when a group of us partook in an amazing safari with Tristan Voorspy from Offbeat Safaris. Our little group hailed from UK, Ireland, America and Zambia and Zimbabwe. For many it was a first time trip to Africa, and many didn’t know each other previously but we all had one thing in common - the love of riding and horses and all ready to share an adventure and witness this incredible show somewhat differently.

After meeting up in Nairobi we chartered down to the Masai land adjacent to the Masai Mara Game reserve, flying over the volcano studded floor of the Great Rift Valley, numerous Masai Villages were seen and herds of game looked like ants . Here we met Tristan Voorspy, a great character ,and our host and guide for the next 10 days. He was joined by Simon Kenyon, Tristan’s able young assistant, who is born in Kenya and comes from a cattle ranching family, was tasked, poor chap, to wait on us hand and foot and which he did with great enthusiasm. Tristan, an English army officer began guiding horseback safaris in the Masai Mara 18 years ago. Tristan although very modest about his acheivements, taught famous people like Meryl Streep and Michael Kitchen to ride for the film "Out of Africa". Has also taken other film stars and celebraties like Glen Close out on safari.
Our tented camp for the first night was in a grove of acacia trees by a small stream at the Southern edge of the Loita Plains at Olare Lamun (the rhino salt lick). Tristan had wisely selected our appropriate horses for a group of anxious and eager riders. Our first afternoon and the following day was a chance to get use to our able, athletic steeds, whom we all formed a close bond with by the end of the trip. Wildlife was everywhere and from where we rode we could see scattered herds of impala, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, topi, thompson’s gazelle. In the distance we could see thousands and thousands of wildebeest cover the grassland all the way to the distant horizon. Our first evening whilst sitting around a camp fire, 2 lioness’s came into camp to attack the horses but the Masai guard was quick on the alert and shouted at them until they slunk off into the bush. On another evening, whilst out on a night drive, we came across 11 lions and we watched as 2 lioness unsuccessful try to stalk a wildebeest. During our stay here we were taken on walks; game drives and visited a traditional Masai Village . It was amazing to see how these people have lived with their livestock for hundreds of years in harmony with the wildlife.

At first light we were woken to a friendly greeting of “Jambo” as hot water was poured into our outside basins. Eagerly everyone got up and ready to mount their same horses and set off for a new day’s adventure. After a few days in each camp, the mobile camp was packed up expertly by Tristan’s efficient staff and we would ride some 50 – 70 km to the next camp. A good 7 hours of a riding to Olare Orok camp – our second camp. We rode across rolling open plains and game generally become more plentiful. Still we rode through millions of wildebeest which were grazing the plains. We soon learnt that when Tristan calmly said “Lets start with a trot and then break into a controlled canter” – usually meant a flat out gallop over the short grasslands, everyone terrified of holes but we were amazed how surefooted the horses were and that they usually spotted the holes well before we did. But the excitement and share exhilaration of galloping amongst thousands of wildebeest, zebra or towards a herd of Masai giraffe, is a feeling one can never describe. Before reaching our second camp we were charged by a huge bull elephant which caused chaos and pandemonium amongst the riders not knowing in which direction to gallop. Tristan, however, calmly aware it was just a mock charge stood his ground.
The evenings we would sit down to an incredible 3 course dinner, expertly cooked in a bush kitchen. The wine would flow and Tristan would entertain us with his amazing stories and jokes and his tireless enthusiasm for the horses, bush and its surrounds was infectious. Still on our adrenaline high from our day’s experiences we would all go out for an evening game drive to look for the nocturnal species. Hyena, leopard and even cheetah were seen. To add to our excitement one evening six lioness decided to grace us with their presence as they were stalking the horses on the pony lines. Although they were chased off, I found it difficult to sleep to think the horse I had become attached to might be the lions dinner.

Moving West we headed across the Mara plains and reached the Mara river on the park boundary. An amazing day galloping amongst millions of wildebeest and in the Mara Triangle the game viewing was incredible. In one particular spot from horse back we saw herds of elephant, buffalo, wildebeest, Zebra and giraffe. We then climbed along a rocky cattle track up the escarpment. Here our camp was overnight at Soit Olololo. This camp had to had one of the most amazing views and the area around was used in the film “Out of Africa”.
After two nights at this camp, our group headed down the escarpment for our next camp. Tristan had told us we were to swim our horses through the Mara River – but many of us didn’t really believe he was going to make us do this. A few days prior Tristan, Simon and Arnie had tried to swim the river further upstream and the current was too strong and the river level too high and it nearly washed them away. So when we saw some huge crocodiles not more than 200 meters from where Tristan told us we were to cross we thought he was joking. But when we realised he wasn't, there was nearly a revolt amongst our troops who were not at all eager to do this, all of us having visions that we we would be the crocodiles next meal. But Tristan’s persuasive manner eventually had all of us crossing and gaily telling us he has “never lost a client to date”!! I have to say that my heart was pumping as I was trying to give the pod of hippo not more than 20 meters from us a wide berth, our crossing was uneventful but exhilarating as our horses waded up to their withers through the river. We were now on a complete high and all ready to do it again. Our final camp was on the banks of the Mara River and all night long we had the grunting from the many hippos who reside near the campsite.
Leaving camp after breakfast we drove all day to Deloraine, the drive taking us through Kericho where there are many tea estates and we ended up at Deloraine. The home of Tristan and Cindy. A beautiful Colonial Manor originally built by Lord Francis Scott. Here we had time to relax, lie by the pool, have a go at playing polo or jump a cross country course. Our last day back to Nairobi we were taken through Lake Nakuru National Park and had a chance to see the amazing sight of millions of pink flamingos, or a chance to see both black and white rhino. Sadly our amazing safari had come to an end. Tristan and Cindy run an excellent and professional operation. However, this safari is not for the faint hearted and you must be able to ride well, but for anyone who wants a bit of an adventure, adrenaline seeking and wants to see some of the best game viewing Africa can offer, then I definitely recommend it and I shall definitely do the trip again. For those who don’t wish to do a safari on horse back Offbeat Safaris has a luxury camp called Offbeat Mara and they own a 24,000 acre ranch which makes up part of the Laikipai Conservancy. Here you stay in a luxury lodge can go on horse rides, walks, camel rides and see a variety of wildlife. Tristan and Cindy also run agricultural tours in Kenya combining visits to farms and staying at various safari lodges and camps

Lake Natron and Oldonyo LengaiMountain.

The Ol Dnoyo Lengai Mountain.

Sometimes called Mountain of God, Oldonyo lengai 2,870mt (9,650ft) to the summit is a spectacular, still active volcano near the edge of the Crater highlands to the north west of Ngorongoro and little to the south of Lake Natron. Five hours drive from Arusha town. Although it can be climbed in one very long day it has the reputation of the being the most strenuous and difficult of Tanzanians great peaks to climb. The track up is sand and slippery, and near the summit bare rock is precipitous and exposed. The climber constantly has the filling that he or cold fall, and theirs to stop him until he reaches the plain 6000 ft below. It is not a mountain for the timid.

In 1917 The great eruption blasted, lava and stones was thrown 25 to 30 miles. This way the surrounding is completely semi desert.
In 1926 it was also a mineral eruption. In 1940 the great eruption occurred. In 1983 the eruption was minder compared to the past time.

Recently this month of April, 2006 Oldonyo lengai erupted again and discharged lave and fire which was thronged 5 km near to the Maasai villages. Oldonyo Lengai which is surrounded by Maasai people grazing their domestic animals sharing pastures with the Wild animals. e.g. giraffe, zebras, buffaloes etc Apart from all the attractions, Oldonyo lengai is very close to Lake Natron where the flamingoes place for breeding.

Lake Natron

Is a salt lake located in northern Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border, in Africa’s Great Rift Valley. The lake is quite shallow, less than three meters (10 feet) deep, and varies in width depending on its water level.

The color of the lake is characteristic of those where very high evaporation rates occur. As water evaporates during the dry season, salinity levels increase to the point that salt-loving microorganisms begin to thrive. Salt-loving organisms include some cyan bacteria, tiny bacteria that grow in water and make their own food with photosynthesis as plants do. The red pigment in the cyan bacteria produces the deep reds of the open water of the lake, and orange colors of the shallow parts of the lake.

Lake Eyasi

Lake Eyasi,

After over one hour of dusty driving south-west of Karate and the Ngorongoro Crater one arrives at the northern shore of Lake Eyasi, a mildly alkaline lake stretching for about 50km to the south-west. To the north-east the horizon is dominated by the Crater Highlands, to the north, beyond an escarpment the plains of the Serengeti. Over 100 years ago when the stronger Masaii tribes moved into the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, the Datoga and other indigenous bushmen living there were pushed south. Many made Lake Eyasi and its surrounding bush and forests their home.

Amongst the acacia and doom palm forests at the north-east end of the lake, by a small lava outcropping, is located Kisima Ngeda farm. This owes its survival to fresh water springs in the area that allow grass and vegetables to grow. The springs also sustain a small reservoir used as a small tilapia fish farm. The farm is owned by a German family whose main source of income is fresh milk produced from the cows they keep and sold in local villages.

The meadows along the shores of the lake and the forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife including leopard, hippo, a variety of monkeys, various birds, greater and lesser flamingos, storks and pelicans.

Several very pleasant, private campsites are located in the forest clearings by the lake, these provide grassy tent spaces, shower and toilet facilities made as far as possible from local materials. At night a cool breeze keeps away mosquitos. This is an ideal place for bird-watchers or those who just want to relax to spend two or three nights in total peace.

lakeside

campsite

flamingos over lake

sunset

Lake Eyasi

Lake Eyasi

The lakes of Tanzania are as dramatic as they are varied. On soda lakes like Lake Manyara and Lake Natron, wildlife gathers on the desolate salt flats and shimmering views take on a lunar landscape which at sunset descends into shades of various pastels.

The soda lakes are alkaline and brackish, home to large populations of flamingos, storks, and herons. Bird-watching and game viewing are popular activities, but must be done from a distance as the soda flats along the lake shore are difficult to walk or drive upon. Still, a visit to the soda lakes of Tanzania is an unforgettable experience. Game still thrive along their unpopulated shores and the sheer ethereal beauty of the water, coloured silver and white by the mineral deposits, is an unforgettable part of the African experience.

Towns and industry take full advantage of the freshwater lakes in the region, the largest of which is Lake Victoria in the northwest of the country. Fishing has long been a mainstay of residents who live around the natural resources, and transport across Tanzania’s many African borders is also an economically profitable activity. Because of the easy supply of freshwater irrigation, Tanzanians also farm the areas around freshwater lakes extensively, and both subsistence and cash crops are grown around their shores. Visitors to the freshwater lakes can embark on fishing trips, hikes and swimming, and enjoy the rich bird and fish life that surrounds the water. In many populated areas, cultural tourism programs are also popular.

A salt lake situated between the Rift Valley’s Eyasi escarpment and the Kidero Mountains, the area around Lake Eyasi is home to the Hadzabe bushmen, some of the last remaining hunter-gatherers on the continent. The Hadzabe have inhabited the acacia forests and scrubland around Eyasi for over 10,000 years and visits to nearby clans can be arranged through local guides in the area.