Pure Safari

The Migration Movement Update!

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

The bulk of the herds are spread out between Kusini and the Hidden Valley, with more of them seen towards the Serengeti Side. However, rain in the Ndutu Area has meant that they have changed direction again and heading back to NCAA. There is a lot of cat activity due to the fact that the calving season has started early this year and clients are getting some excellent sightings.

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Client Feedback

2012-01-30T05:43:00.000-08:00

Hi Bruce,
We arrived back form Zanzibar Tuesday. Just wanted to say we had a really wonderful trip. The ground team were great and everything went very smoothly. My worries re. weather were unfounded, no problem. Our favourite part by far was the 3 day safari. The staff made us very welcome and spoilt us totally.
Our driver/guide was very knowledgable. I did regret we were outside of the park as the state of the roads after previous rain caused the journey to take much longer to and from the park and I felt the lack of animals around our actual camp.
So, we are already planning our next safari. 4-5 days plus 7 days beach, perhaps during the dry season and definatly located within a reserve. It,s just deciding location. Any ideas welcome.
Thanks for your patience and help,
Sheila Kirchin

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Sierra Leone creates new national park twice the size of the Isle of Wight

2012-01-26T03:06:00.000-08:00

It may be the world's seventh poorest country, but Sierra Leone is making great steps to help conserve its internationally important tropical forests.

It is creating the Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP), locking up an estimated 13.6 million tonnes of carbon and protecting one of West Africa's most threatened and wildlife-rich habitats.

The RSPB has been involved with Gola Forest since 1990, which is home to hundreds of bird species, chimpanzees and the world's most important population of pygmy hippo.

'This is a bold and progressive move'
Tim Stowe, the RSPB's international director, said: ‘The contribution that Sierra Leone is making is bold and progressive. In a far-sighted act, this developing West African country - which is on the front line of climate change - has decided to help the world by locking up a vast carbon store as well as protecting its unique and globally-important wildlife. We hope that other nations value this contribution and build upon it.'

If Gola Forest were razed to the ground, the release of carbon would be equal to the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by nearly 14 million cars in a year.

First initiated in 1989, a partnership agreement between the Forestry Division of the Government of Sierra Leone, the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone and the RSPB was reached in 1990 to develop a new management plan, maintain the forest boundaries and to run an environmental education programme. These partners have worked under the banner of the Gola Forest Programme since then, and the work at Gola is an important component of the RSPB's wide tropical forests programme.

The Gola Rainforest National Park covers over 71,000 hectares (just under twice the size of the Isle of Wight ) and has long been threatened by commercial logging and small-scale mining. The long-term governance of natural resources was long argued to be at the heart of the decade-long civil conflict that raged in the 1990s. The creation of the national park should subdue ongoing threats from logging and mining.

Gola forest is a global biodiversity hotspot and recent surveys have revealed 327 species of bird, including eight facing global extinction, such as the Gola malimbe, a striking black and yellow, starling-sized relative of sparrows. The unique biodiversity value of Gola can be measured in other ways too, as it also holds 518 butterfly species - approximately half of the total of Sierra Leone - including three which are new to science.

An estimated 300 chimpanzees, significant populations of monkeys and 44 larger mammal species, such as duikers - small antelopes - live in the forest, as well as the secretive pygmy hippo, which is only found in this part of Africa and is in danger of extinction.

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Camp's Closed in Kruger

2012-01-23T10:23:00.000-08:00

Following major floods in South Africa's Kruger National Park, several camps have been damaged and have been closed, and some roads are at least temporarily closed.

For more information, please see the SANParks website.

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Big cats are returning to Malawi thanks to...

2012-01-19T04:18:00.000-08:00

Big cats are returning to Malawi thanks to an inspiring reintroduction programme.

The 70,000 hectare Majete Wildlife reserve has been a conservation success story since African Parks assumed management in 2003, with more than 2,550 head of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, sable and black rhino, introduced to the park over eight years in a project that has, so far, cost more than $2.4 million.

The plan to gradually introduce big cats back into the park started in October 2011 with the introduction of two leopards relocated from the Kruger National Park in South Africa. Six more of these magnificent cats will be introduced to Majete as part of this programme - in pairs. The introduction of leopard is the penultimate step in the Majete restocking programme, which will culminate in the reintroduction of lions in 2012.

'To ensure every species flourishes, we have to get the timing right'
Until the launch of this project only one viable population of leopard existed in Malawi within the Nyika National Park. These leopards are the first to be introduced to Malawi across international borders, and the first leopards to make their home in Majete for nearly two decades.

Dorian Tilbury, field operations manager, African Parks Majete said: ‘Our mission is to restore, restock and rehabilitate Majete to the condition it was in before human impact. A vital component of the natural system, leopards have been the first big cat to be introduced because they have less of an impact on prey species than lion, which is the other indigenous predator to be re-introduced to Majete.

‘To ensure all species flourish we had to get the timing right. Leopards and lions often conflict with each other and if lions were brought in first it would have been more difficult for the leopards to establish themselves. Lions also eat more and it was necessary to allow the prey species numbers build up a little more before we introduced lions to ensure their survival.'

Kelly White, managing director of the Malawi Travel Marketing Consortium said: ‘The work African Parks is doing at Majete is set to have a phenomenal impact on tourism in Malawi, particularly for the safari industry.'

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Welcome news: New railway line will not affect the Serengeti

2012-01-09T04:13:00.000-08:00

The Tanzanian Minister of Transport, Mr. Omar Nundu, has again stated that the proposed new railway line will not affect the Serengeti.

This is encouraging. We applaud Minister Nundu and the government of Tanzania for this wise decision to route the railway well to the south of the park.

The geography of the Serengeti, in fact, does offer a much greater challenge for a railway, as it involves traversing a steep escarpment. Big questions still hang over the economic viability of this port-railway system from Uganda. But should a railway prove feasible and be built around the southern end of the park, it would greatly relieve pressure for a Serengeti highway in the future.

This would be a victory for the Tanzanian people and a win-win for human development and conservation, something that we all have wanted from the outset.

We'll keep you posted.

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Sad News: Elephant numbers down by 42% in 3 years

2012-01-05T01:47:00.000-08:00

The number of elephants in two wildlife sanctuaries in Tanzania has fallen by nearly 42 percent in just three years, a census showed on Tuesday, as poachers increasingly killed the animals for their tusks.

The census at the Selous Game Reserve and Mikumi National Park revealed elephant numbers had plunged to 43,552 in 2009 from 74,900 in 2006.

The census was carried out by the east African country's wildlife authority, Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute, as part of a government plan to conserve wildlife. The rapid fall has prompted President Jakaya Kikwete to order an immediate investigation.

Conservationists estimate Tanzania has a total elephant population of between 110,000 and 140,000, making it one of the largest sanctuaries in Africa, but in recent years, Tanzania and neighboring Kenya have suffered a steep rise in poaching as criminals killed elephants and rhinos for their tusks and horns for sale in Asia.

TRAFFIC, a conservation group that tracks trends in wildlife trading, said in a statement last week that 2011 had been a record year for ivory seizure. It pointed to a surge in elephant poaching in Africa to meet Asian demand for tusks for use in jewelry and ornaments.

Kikwete also ordered the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute to investigate the disappearance of the rare Roosevelt's sable antelope from national parks, and to look for ways of re-introducing the animal in at least in one of the parks, the statement said.

The last Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) in 2007 agreed to a nine-year moratorium on any further trade in ivory, after some 105 tons of elephant ivory had been sold from Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe to China and Japan.

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It's a Girl

2012-01-02T05:41:00.000-08:00

Abu Camp, located in Botswana’s pristine Okavango Delta, is proud to announce that Shireni, one of the Camp’s leading elephants, gave birth to her third surviving calf, a healthy female, at 22:05 on the 17th December. Measuring approximately 90cm at the shoulder and weighing about 110kg, the new-born stood on her own feet, wobbling, within 20 minutes. The elephant handlers have named her Warona, the SeTswana name meaning ‘For Us’.

Reaching up to her mother, Warona suckled properly for the first time at 07.00 the next morning, 10 hours after the birth, and now takes short naps of 5-10 minutes. Closely watched over by her doting big brother, Abu Junior, the new-born calf is already showing signs of playfulness. Both Warona and Shireni are doing well, along with the other elephants that form the Abu herd. This new member brings the number of the Abu herd to seven elephants.

Shireni was brought to Abu Camp as part of the original ‘Brat Pack Girls’ of young elephants saved from a culling operation in the ‘Sirheni’ area of Kruger National Park. The father is believed to be a wild bull or Mthondo, one of several elephants successfully reintroduced from the Abu herd into the elephant paradise of the Okavango Delta. Earlier this year, the Camp released Gika and her eight-year-old calf Naya together; they are adapting well to their natural home, roaming and mingling with wild elephants and another previously released elephant, Nandipa, who now has two calves of her own. A total of nine elephants have been released from the Abu herd, under the full support of the Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks.

Abu Camp takes its name from the Arabic word meaning ‘all things to do with elephants’. The birth of Warona ends off a thrilling 2011, which saw the opening of the newly refurbished camp, together with exciting new initiatives within Abu Camp’s elephant programme. The elephant experience is being supervised by San Diego Zoo Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Dr. Mike Chase, together with the support of Wild Horizons, a company with a strong history in high quality elephant interaction activities.

The elephant programme is complemented by the reputation of Wilderness Safaris, Africa’s leading ecotourism operator that now manages the camp through its brand, the Wilderness Collection. The cornerstone of this new initiative involves Elephants Without Borders establishing a field research station in the Abu Concession. This happy moment overlaps with an ambitious new programme which is devoted to the highest standards in elephant welfare, scientific research and meaningful guest experiences.

Warona will provide hours of fascination and enjoyment to visitors of Abu Camp, allowing them the rare opportunity to interact with a family group of elephants in one of Africa’s best wilderness areas: the Okavango Delta.

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Elephant due to give birth at Abu Camp

2011-12-05T03:55:00.000-08:00

Sherini, one of the famed elephants of Abu Camp, is to give birth to her third calf in mid to end December 2011. Sherini is one of the original six young elephant orphans saved from a cull in the Kruger National Park. Known for her maternal attributes of calmness, patience and a loving nature, she has given birth to Pula and Abu, and all at Abu Camp are waiting with bated breath for the latest arrival of the Abu elephant family.

This wonderful event however means that certain steps have had to be taken at Abu Camp to ensure the safety of both humans and animals, from Sherini herself (to ensure a healthy birth) to the herd as a whole.

Therefore, prior to the birth, and in order to have as little stress as possible on the expectant mother, Sherini will not be ridden from the end of November 2011 until the end of January 2012 – only three guests at a time will be able to ride over this period.

Because elephants tend to become very excited at the birth of a calf, as well as very protective – particularly for the first few days of a calf’s life – no elephant experiences will take place for five days following the birth. After the initial five days, the calf should be stronger and move more confident, allowing guests to participate in our elephant activities. We believe the arrival of a new born calf will provide guests with an exciting and personal window into the life of a family herd of pachyderms. Of course the activity is immeasurably enhanced as the focus of the herd – and the guests – is all on the newest member of the Abu family. As with all our elephant safari activities, the safety of the herd and our guests during this exciting time takes precedence.

For the first few days while the calf “finds its legs,” the elephants will remain close to camp and guests will be able to participate fully in all the other elephant activities in camp – game drives, mokoro excursions, the Star Bed and more – aside from the once-in-a-lifetime experience of watching the herd interact with the days-old calf – something only a privileged few get to witness.

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The Migration Movement Update!

2011-11-30T05:13:00.000-08:00

It was been raining on a daily basis in Serengeti which has made the wildebeest move very quickly towards the south. The smaller herds are around Central Seronera spread out between the Moru and Maasai Kopjes. The larger herds are already at Naabi around the Gol and Golini Kopjes. There is plenty of green pasture for the animals but also
great hunting opportunities for the predators!

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US military equipment to be used in fight against rhino poaching.

2011-11-25T02:52:00.000-08:00

Stone Holdings, a specialist security design and concept company, and wildlife monitoring organisation Wildlife ACT have been successful in obtaining licensing for U.S. Military radar technology to be used in the fight against rhino and other wildlife poaching. The group will be bringing it to South Africa this month.

Trials conducted at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, a private game reserve about two and a half hours drive from Cape Town, South Africa, have proved extremely successful in identifying intruders on foot, in vehicles and in the air in a game reserve or any other fenced-off area.

Intruders
The principle of the system is that it will enable reserve managers and farmers to secure the perimeters of their respective properties and to identify poachers and trespassers before they are even able to enter the area. It will also ensure that intruders are not able to approach rhinos or other animals and in this way will help to minimise the huge losses we are currently experiencing.

Dr. Simon Morgan from Wildlife ACT was optimistic about the process of securing the perimeter of reserves using this technology. "We have to keep up with the rapid advances of the poachers and prevent them from even getting close to the animals, so investigating the use of the capabilities of this type of equipment is important in the efforts against these incursions," he said.

The system will use a three prong approach to the poaching issue, with a military spec radar anchoring the system. Further testing and fine tuning of the application is currently underway to ensure that all scenarios are covered and each installation will need to be custom designed, depending on the geographical layout of the land, and the level of detection that will be required.

"South Africa presents a whole new challenge to this system and various adaptations need to be done to ensure that all the challenges are met with positive outcomes," says Morgan.

The final product, produced by the unique partnership between Stone Holdings and Wildlife ACT, will be deployed in the near future and the group is excited about the prospect of eventually being able to have this special technology available to them to fight the war against the slaughter of our rich animal heritage.

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Ivory Seized in Hong Kong

2011-11-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

33 rhino horns and a quantity of ivory seized in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Customs have seized 33 rhino horns, 758 ivory chopsticks and 127 ivory bracelets that were concealed inside a container shipped to Hong Kong from South Africa. This seizure may provide a unique opportunity to gain insights into the criminal syndicates trafficking wildlife goods between Africa and Asia, according to TRAFFIC.

TRAFFIC supports the South African Department of Environmental Affairs in requesting the authorities in Hong Kong to send DNA samples of the seized goods to the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at the University of Pretoria in South Africa for examination. If the horn samples can be matched with records in the rhino DNA database it may be possible to identify the individual animals that were poached for their horns.

“Such an effort could yield major clues about who is behind this consignment,” said Tom Milliken, TRAFFIC’s rhino expert.

Destined for the Chinese market
This is the largest rhino horn seizure made in the current poaching crisis. Viet Nam is considered the pre-eminent contemporary market for rhino horn in Asia, and authorities in Viet Nam have previously seized rhino horn transported from Hong Kong by air, but the scale and method of transport suggest the shipment may have been destined elsewhere.

“The fact worked ivory was also present suggests the 33 rhino horns were likely destined for the greater Chinese market,” Milliken added.

“That’s a very worrying development given the scale of this seizure, and an important indication that the Chinese market is becoming an active phenomenon in rhino horn trafficking.”

No Arrests
No arrests have so far been made, although authorities in Hong Kong have confirmed the horns are genuine and say investigations are ongoing.

Under Hong Kong’s Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing unmanifested cargoes is liable to a maximum fine of HKD2 million (USD257,000) and imprisonment for seven years.

In addition, under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing endangered species for commercial purposes is liable to a maximum fine of HKD5 million (USD642,000) and imprisonment for two years.

“This case highlights the need for South African Port Authorities to invest in scanning equipment and up their game in terms of surveillance of the country’s export cargo,” says Markus Burgener of TRAFFIC’s fisheries programme. The port of Cape Town is also a major conduit for illegal shipments of abalone to Hong Kong.

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Client Feedback: Unguja Lodge

2011-11-11T04:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Kylie.

We had a fabulous time in Unguja Lodge. The owners were not there but their stand in manager Martin was great. The accommodation was fabulous, the rear villas with the small pool are better, slightly larger and you have more monkeys and wild life visit you than the ones on the sea front.

The dive master Nick is great, very professional, great at leading the dives and is fun. The staff were all very friendly and very helpful. Not an awful lot to do around Kizimkazi but that is the beauty of the place.

Great place to stay. I will recommend the lodge to friends.

Thanks

Amanda

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Sad News: Rhino Poached at Shamwari Game Reserve

2011-11-09T05:15:00.000-08:00

The Shamwari Game Reserve situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa is deeply saddened to announce that in the early hours of this morning, it tragically lost an adult female rhino cow which was tranquillised and the horn gruesomely removed by poachers.

A 22 month old bull calf was also tranquillised and his horn also removed but he was found and taken to the Animal Rehabilitation Centre. His horn was removed with minor damage to his face and Dr Johan Joubert is hopeful that he will recover. The calf also suffered an injured back leg which is carefully being monitored.

States Joe Cloete - Group General Manager - Shamwari Group; “The investigation into the poaching incident commenced this morning with Cape Nature Conservation, Organised Crime and the SAPS being present. Rodney Visser, the Shamwari Group Security Manager, is heading up the investigation. The scene was secured in order for the forensic team to do their work without disturbance. At this stage there have been no arrests made but the investigation continues.”

Flippered Journey from North Island

2011-10-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

Unlike the hawksbill turtle, numbers of green turtle females coming on land to nest differ substantially from year to year. Hence, after 2010 having been a fantastic green turtle season at North Island, with a spectacular 156 tracks, it was a pleasant surprise that 2011 continued with relatively high numbers (66 tracks). Hence more exciting turtle activities to share with guests and colleagues!

Our general "watch-but-do-not-touch" policy on North Island means that we interfere only when turtle nests are in danger. This was the case with one nest that was laid too low on the beach on the 23rd of July. Elliott Mokhobo (Environment Assistant) had therefore been keeping a close eye on the marked nest during his daily early morning patrols. On the 3rd of September, it was found in grave danger of being washing away. Together with Linda Vanherck (Resident Biologist), they decided to intervene. Enthusiastic guests joined forces to save the nest that contained 162 eggs (on average a turtle lays between 150-200 eggs). The eggs were put in a foam box, covered with sand and taken to the environmental office.

On the 16th of September, a little earlier than expected (as normally green turtle nests hatch between 55 to 60 days after laying), we were overjoyed to see our first hatchling break the surface. Subsequently, the foam box was inundated with turtles and over the next five days we released a total of 140 hatchlings that had successfully hatched out of their eggs.

Nests in the office in the past have shown a lot of variation in synchronicity of hatching, with some hatchlings all emerging simultaneously and therewith allowing for a release in bigger batches, making it safer for them to reach the deeper waters where predation is less. This nest's hatchlings emerged in smaller batches, ecologically not good, but giving us more opportunities to share the excitement of witnessing babies begin their amazing journey to the great unknown.

The statistic that only 1 in 1 000 or even 1 in 10 000 (when poaching occurs) turtles will reach a reproductive age sure left guests and staff convinced of the continued need for conservation of this endangered species.

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African wild dog tracked travelling 250 miles!

2011-10-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

One of the longest dispersal distances recorded for this critically endangered species.

A male African wild dog, recently photographed in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve in Botswana, has been identified by scientists and was last seen in April 2010 in the Save Valley in eastern Zimbabwe, some 250 miles (400km) away. This is among the longest distances recorded for dispersal for wild dogs and underscores the need for large expanses of habitat to safeguard this critically endangered species.

The dog is one of two males in the same group that travelled this long distance.

The discovery is the work of four projects: The Carnivore Conservation Group, The Painted Dog Project, Northern Tuli Predator Project, and Lowveld Wild Dog Project, as part of the regional network for sharing information that has been set up under the Range Wide Program for cheetah and wild dog conservation hosted by the Wildlife Conservation Society.

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Sad News: Another two rhino shot dead in Kruger.

2011-10-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Two white rhinos - one cow and her calf - have been found shot dead in Kruger National Park. The two animals were both shot on the head and only one front horn was removed, the rest still intact.

‘This is truly a despicable act and would like to encourage everybody to come forward and report any suspicious movements because criminals who conduct this evil assault on our wildlife must be put away,' said William Mabasa of SANParks.

The poachers were not arrested.

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UPDATE: Security Situation in Kenya

2011-10-20T07:49:00.000-07:00

Following recent incursions across the border into Kenya by Somali bandits, resulting in the murder of one tourist and the kidnapping of four other foreign nationals in isolated beach resorts and a refugee camp near the Somali border, the government of Kenya gave assurances that serious efforts would be made to enhance security along the border with Somalia to counteract the threat from Somali terrorists and to protect visitors and Kenyans from further attacks.

The government has now taken action, as promised, to have a stronger military presence along the land border with Somalia in the remote north-eastern region of Kenya to stop any further incursions into Kenya by Somali bandits or by the Al Shabab terrorist group. The Kenya Army has deployed troops along the border and has crossed into Somalia to ensure that the area all along the border is cleared of any bandits or suspected terrorists. Kenya is also giving air and ground support to the Somali government, which is carrying out its own offensive against Al Shabab. At the coast, the Kenya Navy is co-operating with the international navies present in the Indian Ocean for counter-piracy exercises, and has naval patrol boats in the Lamu area to intercept and inspect any boats coming towards Kenya from the Somali coastal waters.

As expected, the Al Shabab terrorist organisation has retaliated by issuing threats which have been publicised by the international media but security analysts have pointed out that they appear to lack the capacity for any effective military response. Western diplomats in Nairobi have praised Kenya for taking prompt and effective action to enhance security along the land border.

The wildlife parks and reserves in Kenya are all located far away from the border with Somalia and have never been considered to be under any threat, while the beach resorts south of Lamu are also considered to be safe in view of their location being at a greater distance from the border with Somalia.

Visitors can be assured that they will continue to receive the normal friendly welcome and hospitality for which Kenyans are renowned and that they can travel to Kenya for safaris and beach holidays in the knowledge that their safety and security remains a high priority for the Kenyan government and for all of us in Kenya's tourism sector.

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New species of antelope discovered in West Africa.

2011-10-19T02:20:00.000-07:00

Scientists from The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Erik Verheyen, Gontran Sonet and Zoltán T. Nagy, have, with a team of international researchers, discovered a new species of antelope that is found in Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.

It is a very small antelope, measuring no more than around 40 cm at the shoulder and weighing four to six kilograms. It belongs to the duiker subfamily of antelopes. The Afrikaans name, 'duiker', meaning 'diver', comes from the habit these timid animals have of diving into the vegetation at the slightest sign of danger.

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Joining forces to beat the rhino poachers.

2011-10-18T02:18:00.000-07:00

In the face of South Africa's escalating rhino poaching problem, conservation agencies have joined forces to fast-track urgently needed anti-poaching initiatives.

Fifteen separate conservation organisations are signing up to create Project Rhino, allowing for the co-ordination of conservation efforts to eliminate poaching in KwaZulu-Natal.

The members of Project Rhino also recognise that the work in conserving and protecting rhinos from poaching is symbolic of the threat faced by all wildlife and that the poaching of rhino is indicative of the larger environmental crisis that South Africa is facing.

This initiative has been endorsed by Dr Ian Player, one of the world's foremost conservationists, founder of the Wilderness Foundation and co-founder of the Magqubu Ntombela Trust, and widely credited with saving the white rhino from extinction in the 1960s.

Project Rhino also sees highly credible and long standing organisations speaking unanimously, as a way to ensure that the public and government are consistently informed of where their support is going.

The agreement between the founders is due to be signed at the beginning of next month.

The founding members of Project Rhino are: Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Wildlands Conservation Trust (WCT), Wildlife ACT, Wilderness Foundation, Thanda Private Game Reserve, African Conservation Trust (ACT), Phinda Private Game Reserve (& Beyond), Zululand Rhino Reserve, Zululand Wildlife Security Initiative, Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA), WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, Wildlife & Environment Society of SA (WESSA), Space for Elephants Foundation (SEF), Magqubu Ntombela Foundation and the Thanda Foundation.

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The Migration Movement Update!

2011-10-06T03:17:00.000-07:00

The big herds of wildebeest have started crossing the Mara River to Northern Serengeti. There has been a lot of rain, which we are very pleased about, around Kogatende and Nyamalumbwa which is providing the herds with good grazing. Our clients have been lucky to spot numerous crossings as well as rhino with calves and few cheetah and lions enjoying the return of the wildebeest and zebra in bigger numbers into the Serengeti. If the rains continue we do think that the herds will be arriving down to central Serengeti quite quickly this year.

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Client Feedback

2011-09-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hi Bruce,

We arrived back in the UK on Saturday from our magical holiday. The Safari and all arrangements were fantastic, we loved the Porini Mara camp it was perfect for us just what we wanted.

The Breezes hotel was absolutely divine, both my husband & I think that it is probably the best hotel we have ever stayed in. The food was amazing, the people lovely and the accommodation very comfortable and welcoming.

Everything else arranged by yourselves went like clockwork and the choices you made for us were just perfect.

Kind regards.

Shelley & Ian Floody

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Client Feedback - Rufiji - Mbweni - Neptune Pwani

2011-09-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

HI Ed,

Sorry it's taken so long - but here, in writing at last, is the feedback I gave you over hte phone...

Overall - excellent holiday.

Safari - Rufiji River Camp was great. Tents very comfortable - and family tent essential given that tents are not very close and you can't walk around after dark. The game drives were great. We did a mix of full day and half day, mixed in with boat drives. We were never more than 7 on a safari. We didn't come across many other people, our guide / ranger was very knowledgeable and we saw lots of game. Boat safaris were also very good for seeing elephants, hippos crocs and birds. Only (marginal) complaint about the camp was the quantity of food. It was brought to the table by staff and you felt somewhat obliged to eat it even if you didn't want it.

We then flew to Zanzibar and spent 4 days at the Mbweni Ruins. Mbweni was a good base for exploring Stonetown and the shuttle bus was useful during the day and taxis were easy. As it was Ramadan, some of the restaurants in Stonetown were closed for August. Took a day trip to Chumbe Island from the hotel - which was great. Best meal of the holiday and the snorkeling was fab. It would have been fun to stay on Chumbe and have another go at snorkeling as you only get to do it for about an hour / hour and a half each day.

Neptune Pwani - great rooms (seaside). Great pool and generally hotel was good and staff were very friendly. Internet access was extortionate. Made good use of some of the animations and also the water sports centre - the windsurfing etc and the instructors were good. Also used the kite surfing at the adjacent hotel - somewhat disorganised but good fun. Had an excellent spice tour and also visited the north of the island for a jet ski safari. The evening entertainments in the hotel were quite fun. Main complaint was the quality of the food - which (with the exception of the pizza restaurant) wasn't great for the level of hotel.

Hope this is helpful.
Christine

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Zambian elections a truimph!

2011-09-26T01:44:00.000-07:00

From an Atta reporter in Zambia:

There was some anxious waiting, some inevitable controversy, some reports of protests in the towns – but we now have the results of our tri-partite elections. After 20 years in power – MMD have listened to the people, bowed out and handed over the reins to new President Michael Chilufya Sata of the Patriotic Front ,the 5th President of Zambia .

Outgoing President Rupiah Banda said in his farewell speech :
"MY GENERATION, THE GENERATION OF THE INDEPENDENCE STRUGGLE - MUST NOW GIVE WAY TO NEW IDEAS, IDEAS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY”

He was gracious in defeat and the elections were free and fair. We have just watched the inauguration on TV. The sight of outgoing President Rupiah Banda together with the First Republican President, Dr Kenneth Kaunda, accompanying the President Elect to the stand to be sworn in, surrounded by tens of thousands of cheering onlookers, was something to behold mbians are today extremely proud that this country is beacon of democracy and peace in an otherwise troubled world.All Zambians are today extremely proud that this country is a beacon of democracy and peace in an otherwise troubled world. We thank the outgoing President and wish President Sata all the best in his new role.

All Zambians are today extremely proud that this country is a beacon of democracy and peace in an otherwise troubled world. We thank the outgoing President and wish President Sata all the best in his new role.

CONGRATULATIONS ZAMBIA!

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Client Feedback

2011-09-17T03:18:00.000-07:00

Ed,

Thank you for this info.

I was happy to call and let you know that we had a very successful holiday. Everything you told me panned out and the accommodation booked (Kichanga, Saadani, Neptune Pwani, Chumbe and Mbweni Ruins) were all exactly as you had described. Each place easily matched or surpassed my expectations. Saddani in particular was a real treat -the place was beautiful, well run and idyllic and the bush babies at Mbweni were an unexpected treat! You were very patient with me at the outset, working out numerous options which worked within budget - offering options and thoughts on what would be good for my family. The planning was worth it as the trip offered great variety and something for everyone. The whole family had a fantastic time.

I must confess I was very anxious before we left at the prospect of the unknown and taking my three sons to Africa. Each time I spoke to you, or any of your team, I was always reassured as it was obvious that the staff really do have an excellent knowledge of the country and all matters associated with travelling to Tanzania and Zanzibar in particular. It was very comforting to speak to people who had an active knowledge of the place. An example of this was the precise advice on levels of tipping expected/usual. Details which are very helpful when you are feeling clueless! The team were always ready to answer all questions and could not have been more helpful.

The service from your guys on the ground in Zanzibar was also excellent. They were quietly efficient, all transfers/pick ups, seamless and well organised.

My only regret is that we didn't get to see more!

Next time!

Thank you again. I only hope we manage to sort another trip out in the future -possibly a more substantial safari.....

I will be recommending your service to anyone who remotely suggests a holiday!

All the best,

Caroline

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Serengeti Highway update.

2011-09-08T01:23:00.000-07:00

We would like to update you by this email about the developments concerning the project a building a road across the Serengeti.

We have been informed by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) that the East African Court of Justice has agreed to hear and determine a Reference filed by Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW) demanding Tanzanian Government to stop the construction of 800km road across Serengeti National Park. Justice John Mkwawa delivered the much awaited EAC Court judgment that dismissed Tanzanian's government objections to the application filed by Africa Network for Animal Welfare (Anaw).
However, Tanzanian Attorney General who objected EAC Court jurisdiction arguing the country has sovereign right to develop infrastructure within its boundaries has indicated that Tanzania Government will appeal against this rulling.

Dismissing the objection, the judge agreed with Anaw lawyer Saitabao ole Kanchory that whereas Tanzanian government has a right to develop infrastructure, the court has the power to determine whether such developments were within the law. He observed that case was rightfully before the court and will proceed to full hearing.

Anaw moved to the regional court on December 10, 2010 to stop the project on grounds that the road would harm the park's ecology. It argues that construction of the road across Serengeti- Tanzanians largest National Park, also bordering Kenya's Maasai-Mara Game Reserve, infringes Articles 5, 89,111, 112,114 and 116 of EAC Treaty.

TATO and other parties objecting the construction of the said road anxiously await the decision of this matter.

We shall keep you posted on any new developments.

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Client Feedback

2011-09-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Bruce

Sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you but I have had my hands full since my return.

I am glad I requested the Norfolk and it was not one you had recommended as it was very disappointing. The hotel it’s self is very nice as were the staff. However the food was very expensive and very poor quality. The organisation or lack of was a problem as we were told to be ready at 6.30 for our game drive in Nairobi National Park. We were told that they would provide packed breakfast and lunch. However we didn’t actually get picked up until 8.30 and would therefore have had time to eat breakfast in the restaurant. When we were finally ready to go the hotel had forgotten our lunch. Nobody was able to tell us when we were being picked up for transfer to the mara and they didn’t find the itinerary that had been left at the desk for us until we paid the bill to depart. I would not go back there and would not recommend this hotel to anyone. Not the best start to our holiday.

Fortunately your choices were much better and I loved the Mara Porini camps. Although I had requested 5 days in one camp as I didn’t want to move around we were actually in the Ol Kinyei Camp for 3 days and Lion Camp for 2. I was a bit miffed at first but soon realised it was not a bad thing at all.

Ol Kinyei was the best place I have ever stayed in. The camp was really well appointed but the staff, the food and the service were just amazing. The small touches they add to look after you and ensure you enjoy your stay are extremely thoughtful and really do make a big difference I have never been so well looked after anywhere in the world. If you ever get the opportunity to visit Kenya this is a must go to place. The wild life was wonderful and local area outstanding.

Lion camp was less well appointed and the staff were wonderful but not to the same level as the Ol Kinyei Camp. However the guides were totally awesome and the game was much more prolific. They managed to find not just one Leopard but two and they then managed to go back at right time to find the young male Leopard hunting as they had predicted. I am overall glad that our stay was split but I don’t think I would be as keen to stay at the Lion Camp again. I will however be going back to the Ol Kinyei Camp.

Samatian Island Lodge was the most amazingly tranquil place I have ever been. Why people rush to the coast when this totally wonderful chilled out place is available I will never know. The food, staff and management were all wonderful and certainly gave Ol Kinyei a run for its money. Our every want was accommodated. The one and only down side was the bugs and insects which got a bit much once or twice. Everywhere was spotlessly clean so I’m not talking anything nasty or unexpected but the time of year was certainly a factor. I would highly recommend the lodge to anyone. This is definitely Africa at its best and most relaxed.

The Giraffe Manor more than lived up to my expectations. I have been waiting 20 years to visit here and it did not disappoint. The most wonderful way to end our holiday.

As you know I had to really persuade Dave to visit Kenya and was very nervous about going there in case he didn’t like it. However Dave fell in love with Kenya and said he thought this was the best holiday we have ever had. It clearly was head and shoulders above anything else we have ever done. All the transfers went like clockwork without any delays or problems. Well done to everyone involved in organising our trip it was fabulous.

Many thanks for all your efforts Bruce you are a star! You didn’t let me down :-) Well done!

With Kind regards and best wishes

Mandy

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Nairobi National Park Bypass

2011-08-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

A new bypass could destroy the migration to Nairobi National Park

What's it all about?
Some leading environmentalists are raising concern for this new Bypass which they claim will destroy the migration of wildebeest and zebra into the Nairobi National Park

What bypass?
The proposal, financed by the Chinese, is to construct the "Greater Southern bypass" near the Nairobi National Park .This is not the Southern bypass which goes north of the Nairobi Park, but the road that goes south of the Park. The Greater Southern by-pass will link the Mombasa highway with Nairobi- Narok- Bomet- Kisii highway at Suswa. The road will be constructed from Lukenya through Kitengela-Ongata Rongai to Ngong where it will branch into two; one heading to Rironi while the other runs up to Suswa.

What are they saying?
If constructed along the proposed route, this road will effectively strangle Kenya’s oldest and one if her most important National Parks, and Nairobi’s greatest asset, the Nairobi National Park. The highway will sever the migration routes of wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, Cokes hartebeest, eland, Grants gazelle, Thompson’s gazelle, and many other wildlife species including endangered cheetah and lions which depend on the land south of the National Park. The Nairobi Park is dependent on this wildlife resource for its acclaim and the wildlife depends on the Park for its survival during the dry season.

Nairobi Park is a globally recognized model park because of its location in a capital city. It is Kenya’s oldest National Park and is visited by tens of thousands of visitors (both international and local) every year; is a major environmental education resource for Kenya and generates over US $500,000 annually from park fees alone.

Is all the tourist industry against this bypass?
Not necessarily. Many feel that urban creep so close to this huge city is inevitable. The traffic jams are so bad now that it is affecting tourist transfers to and from central Nairobi, Wilson airport and JKIA international airport. These new bypasses are essential to get traffic moving again and there is bound to be some effect on this National Park within the city. Some believe the key is to find a balance between the inevitable growth of this burgeoning African capital, and the protection of this unique and valuable park with its wildlifecorridors.

What is the solution?
Environmentalists are offering to provide an environmental, social and economic justification for an alternative and less damaging route that involves upgrading an existing road network south of the Nairobi Park via Malili, Konza, Isinya, Kiserian and Ngong. This proposal will bring major social and economic benefits to the communities who live along that existing road, and will not lead to major degradation of this important ecosystem.

Alternatively, others suggest that tunnels for the proposed road could be built in places allowing the migration to continue as before. The benefits derived from constructing wildlife crossings to extend wildlife migration corridors over and under major roads, appear to outweigh the costs of construction and maintenance and have been used successfully in other parts of the world.

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Elephant Pepper Camp awarded.

2011-08-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Elephant Pepper Camp has been awarded the highest form of eco-rating certification by Ecotourism Kenya, for demonstrating outstanding levels of socio-economic investment, responsible resource use and environmental conservation.

There are only 2 other Gold rated facilities in Kenya, proving the high level of practices required for such a recognition. Ecotourism Kenya has applauded Elephant Pepper Camp for attaining this level of excellence, and has commended the camp's commitment to responsible tourism.

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Baby Gorilla Rescued

2011-08-10T03:09:00.000-07:00

An infant mountain gorilla has been confiscated from poachers by Rwandan police in the town of Gisenyi on the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Police arrested the Congolese poachers holding the infant as well as two Rwandans who were helping the poachers. The gorilla had been captured near the Bukima area of Virunga National Park, according to the poachers, indicating that it belongs to a critically endangered population. The poachers claimed they kept the gorilla for about six days, feeding him bananas and sugar cane until attempting to smuggle him to Rwanda.

Veterinarians from Mountain Gorilla Veterinarian Project (MGVP), partners of Virunga National Park, took the infant gorilla, estimated at about 8-months-old, to the orphan care facility of Kinigi in Rwanda where they will perform a full health check. According to the veterinarians, the infant seems to be strong despite suffering from a bad cough and runny nose.

If you would like to see gorilla's in their natural habitat please visit our Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge page for details.

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Client Feedback - The Tides

2011-08-10T02:58:00.000-07:00

Morning Bruce - just a short note to let you know that we arrived back from our holiday at The Tides late last night (to a country in some disarray!). We could not be happier with the standard of care we received throughout our holiday and the excellent arrangements you made went (pretty well) without a hitch. You have made it possible for two rather unadventurous travellers to have a really amazing experience and we will definitely use Pure Zanzibar again if ever we are to return to Tanzania - and we hope we will. We will certainly recommend your service to anyone who should ask. Please pass on our gratitude to your colleagues at Dial-a-Flight who also contributed to a trouble free experience.

We particularly enjoyed our visit to the school at Ushongo Mbaoni and, now that we are back home, will try to make arrangements to continue to support it in some way.

Thank you again,

Lesley Abercromby and Roger Street

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Client Feedback - Kilindi

2011-08-03T03:01:00.000-07:00

Ed,

Kilindi was absolutely outstanding in every way. Without doubt one of the most impressive properties I have ever stayed at – it was exceptional in every way.

We will be heading back .. Thank you for persuading us to change – money well spent.

All the best,

phil

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Poaching Update

2011-07-09T05:43:00.000-07:00

Rhino poaching surge continues in 2011

June 2011. Nearly 200 rhinos have been killed in South Africa during the first half the year, according to statistics from the national parks department. The rate of poaching, if not curbed, could exceed 2010 levels when a record 333 rhinos were killed in the country.

193 rhinos killed in 2011 so far - 126 in the Kruger alone
South Africa has lost at least 193 rhinos during the first six months of 2011 with Kruger National Park continuing to be hardest hit. The world famous safari destination has already lost 126 rhinos to poaching this year in addition to 146 killed there in 2010.

"Poaching is being undertaken almost without exception by sophisticated criminals, sometimes hunting from helicopters and using automatic weapons," says Dr. Joseph Okori, WWF's African Rhino Programme Coordinator. "South Africa is fighting a war against organized crime that risks reversing the outstanding conservation gains it made over the past century."

South Africa is home to the largest populations of African rhinos, including white rhinos and critically endangered black rhinos.

Arrests and convictions
In response to the recent poaching crisis, law enforcement measures have been increased resulting in 123 arrests and six successful convictions so far in 2011. Last year South African authorities arrested a total of 165 suspected poachers and convicted four. Judicial proceedings are ongoing for many of the suspects.

"We are pleased to see more successful convictions of poachers," said Dr. Morné du Plessis, CEO of WWF South Africa. "Applying strict penalties for wildlife crimes such as rhino poaching will demonstrate the South African government's commitment to maintaining this important part of the country's heritage."

Swaziland
In June, neighbouring Swaziland lost its first rhino to poaching in nearly 20 years sparking fears that the crime wave could be spreading. Authorities in Swaziland arrested three suspects within days of the killing, but have since released them on bail.

WWF opposes the granting of bail to poaching suspects due to the gravity of their crimes and their high flight risk. Suspects at large continue to pose a threat to rhinos and can cause delays to judicial proceedings.

"We cannot allow poaching to proliferate across rhino range countries," Dr. Okori says. "Swift prosecutions of wildlife crimes and strict sentences for perpetrators will serve as a deterrent to potential criminals. Poachers should be shown no leniency."

‘Traditional medicine'
Rhino poaching is being fuelled by demand for horns in Asia, where they are highly valued for traditional medicine, although rhino horn has no scientifically proven healing properties.

"The poaching surge shows no sign of abating," says Tom Milliken, Elephant & Rhino Programme Coordinator with TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring group. "Only a concerted international enforcement pincer movement, at both ends of the supply and demand chain, can hope to nip this rhino poaching crisis in the bud."

WWF and TRAFFIC provide technical assistance to wildlife management authorities and support greater inter-agency law enforcement cooperation. In May WWF financed the purchase of an ultralight aircraft for rangers patrolling against poachers in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province.

TRAFFIC is a joint programme of WWF and IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

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Migration Update

2011-07-06T04:26:00.000-07:00

Our guides have reported that the migration is hugely fragmented. Some herds in the Western Corridor and some other sizeable ones around the Lobo and Mbuzi Mawe and Togoro Plains Areas. There are also reports of trail blazing herds stretching from Kleins and up into Bologonja. The afternoons have been mostly rainy with some amazing thunder storms at times. This very unseasonable weather could explain why the migration is so broken up since we should be in our dry season!!

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Client Feedback

2011-06-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

Bruce

I meant to get back to you.

Geoff had a fantastic time on "MY DREAM HOLIDAY". The safari experience was unreal and the hotel, diving, service and food at the Palms was outstanding apparently.

Some day I may be able to afford a similar holiday. I've always wanted to go after Christmas but its perhaps the most expensive time.

Bruce I'm known it the drinks trade in Ireland as "Minister for Tourism" with the level of incentive trips we do. I am always asked for advice and opinion from people and customers (bar owners) re various holidays. I will have no hesitation in recommending you and Pure Zanzibar in the future. You will definitely get business out of it in the future.

Thanks for everything.

Kind regards

Brian

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Client Feedback

2011-06-15T04:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Ed,

Hope you are well. I have booked my Emirates flights for the agreed dates. After 3 months of researching, having everything booked for my honeymoon is a dream. Me and my partner are so excited and I have to admit that I am much more excited about my honeymoon than my wedding.

I owe you a massive thank you. I re-iterate that the whole process of dealing with yourself was one of the best customer services experience I have ever had. You have been very very patient throughout several conversations we have had right from the start. You always came across very friendly and were fully happy to hear what I wanted, in order to cater for my needs and budget. I found all your help and advice very honest, completely impartial and all in my interest. Personal recommendations such as exactly which room/suite to stay in a specific hotel for its decor and better views is just stunning and is something that will always stick in my mind. Little things like where to eat and what tours to do. You never expect such detailed advice. Such local knowledge is invaluable in deciding an important trip. I also appreciate you trying to get good deals and offers from your providers for our honeymoon.

All in all, I am so happy to have booked my honeymoon through yourself. I absolutely love my itinerary and find the price to be competitive. Having all local flights, transfers and hotels organised really has taken all headache away.

I hope the trip itself is as good as the experience of organising and booking it has been. It has been a pleasure and I would certainly book with Pure Zanzibar and most certainly with yourself again.

Thank you.

Regards,
Dr. Khan

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Antelope Release Success

2011-06-07T04:57:00.000-07:00

Action for the Wild, Colchester Zoo's charity, is thrilled to report on the release of several antelope species at the Umphafa Private Nature Reserve in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.

In total 7 impala, 21 red hartebeest and 22 blue wildebeest were introduced to the reserve in April and have settled in very well. It is hoped that the introduction will increase the future breeding populations of antelope species at the reserve. Antelope are important for providing a prey base for carnivorous species, like the cheetah, but are threatened by the spread of human settlements, increased farming and increased demand for meat.

Breeding stock
Rebecca Perry, Conservation Director said ‘These recent releases are exciting developments for UmPhafa. The releases of the wildebeest represent the first for this species on UmPhafa and the new populations of red hartebeest and impala will serve to top up our existing herds. It is hoped that these species will go on to breed in the future and help us on our way to reaching carrying capacity for these species.'

Action for the Wild opened the reserve in 2006 and has been working to rehabilitate and restore the previously over-cultivated land of the reserve, whilst introducing native species to create a haven for South African wildlife. The reserve has already released thirteen species to date including giraffe, zebra, blesbok, servals, African rock pythons, common reedbuck, nyala, waterbuck, leopard tortoises and white rhinos. The white rhinoceros release has been particularly successful with the introduced females having both given birth to new young this year.

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Gorilla fee reduced for off-peak treks.

2011-06-06T02:39:00.000-07:00

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced that it is to cut the cost of gorilla tracking permits in low demand periods.

The new rates will be:

Foreign non-residents will now pay $350 - reduced from $500
Foreign residents will pay $250
East Africans will pay Shs100,000 from Shs250,000.

Gorilla tracking is the major earner in the Uganda's tourism industry. Uganda's two parks are home to more than 50% of the world's mountain gorilla population, thought to be around 840, across Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda is habilitating two new families of gorillas which will join six others later in 2011. Each gorilla family is allowed eight visitors a day.

It is thought that the reduced rates will apply from March to May and October.

Please follow the link for more info on Gorilla tracking and Clouds Mountain Lodge.

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Three Poachers Shot

2011-06-02T09:15:00.000-07:00

Soldiers have shot three poachers in the north of the Olifants River in the Kruger National Park.

"The poachers fired on the South African soldiers who then returned fire," says spokeswoman Lieutnant Colonel Marinda Meyer. "An AK47 rifle, one Bruno .458 hunting rifle, two axes and two cell phones were found in their possession."

Anti rhino poaching role
The troops are patrolling the border area within The Kruger Park, as well as in the Mbuzini and Komatipoort areas. The troops are working with the police, South African Revenue Service and other government departments involved in crime-combating operations, the military said. The SANDF contributes and plays a very critical role in the curbing of rhino-poaching as part of their support to SAN Parks along the Kruger National Park which borders the neighbouring countries."

In April SA Army soldiers deployed in the KNP arrested four Mozambican nationals, also for suspected poaching. They were in possession of a hunting rifle, cell phones, binoculars and axe, the Department of Defence said in a statement at the time.

Mozambique
The state BuaNews agency reported in late March that some 165 troops had been deployed to patrol the international border between the park and Mozambique to re-establish state authority and combat poaching. "For the safety of our borderlines and the escalating rhino poaching incidents we have decided to add our troops and divide them so that others will help in the Kruger to [combat] rhino poaching and other cross-border related crimes," said provincial SANDF commander Colonel Nceba Bobelo.

South African National Parks (SANParks) chief executive David Mabunda last month said that 71 rhinos have been killed at SANParks reserves since the beginning of this year, while 333 rhino deaths were recorded last year. Since the beginning of January 2011 159 rhinos have been poached throughout the country, 134 suspects arrested and 17 suspects fatally wounded.

All borders to be patrolled
The SANDF is currently deployed along stretches of the Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho borders At the end of the financial year 2012/13 the SANDF hopes to patrol the entire 4471 kilometres frontier between South Africa and Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, and Lesotho.

Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Lindiwe Sisulu overnight warned poachers that the military will return fire with fire in the KNP and other areas along the border. "The SANDF will do anything to protect our national asserts, we will not allow criminals to do as they wish in our parks, we also want to send a very strong message that poachers who shoot at soldiers must know that we will return fire with fire", the minister said.

The minister added that the SANDF and the South African National Parks will cooperate in protecting all national parks. The cooperation will include joint operations, sharing of information and training.

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Special Offer - Londo Lodge

2011-05-11T04:01:00.000-07:00

Mozambique

Londo Lodge, set amidst lush African baobab bush and abundant coral reef, along virgin Indian Ocean coastline, offers a truly luxurious and authentic African beach holiday. Resting alongside East Africa's finest beaches, the seven spacious villas of the small boutique lodge afford stunning views over the private beach on Pemba Bay - a member of the exclusive group of UNESCO most beautiful bays in the world.

In line with our portfolio of unique and luxurious properties throughout Mozambique and Africa, Londo Lodge offers a true sense of luxury, style and individuality. Bountiful once in a lifetime activities are available to enjoy, including discovering virtually unexplored coral reefs, bush walking in and around the stunning Quirimbas National Park and world class game fishing around Pemba and the Quirimbas archipelago. Kayaking on the azure waters, relaxing on romantic dhow cruise and mangrove river boat trips are also on offer, as well as an abundance of other exhilarating or relaxing pastimes.

Privately owned, this intimate getaway is renowned for excellent service and revered for its fine food. As the 2011 Winner of the Good Safari Guide Awards for "Best Safari Cuisine", the fresh and imaginative food makes the lodge stand out from the crowd.

The open restaurant sits quite literally on the edge of Pemba Bay while the bar affords magnificent views. There is a cliff top spa offering a fine menu of treatments and the infinity pool on the cliff edge seems to drop right into the ocean. Londo Lodge is sheer uninterrupted luxury.

Pay for 3 Nights & Stay 5 (valid until 01 Jul 2011).

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South Africa sends in the army to stop rhino poaching in the Kruger

2011-04-28T05:26:00.000-07:00

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) had been asked by South African National Parks (SANParks) to play a strategic role in the protection of South African National Parks, especially the Kruger National Park. The SANDF deployed to the Kruger where the park borders with Mozambique and Zimbabwe at the beginning of April 2011.

333 rhinos killed in South Africa in 2010
A total of 333 rhinos were illegally killed in South Africa in 2010, including ten critically endangered black rhinos, according to national park officials. The yearly total is the highest ever experienced in South Africa and nearly three times the 2009 figure when 122 rhinos were killed in the country. An additional five rhinos have been lost to poaching since the New Year.

146 rhinos killed in the Kruger in 2009
Kruger National Park, the world famous safari destination, was hardest hit losing 146 rhinos to poaching in 2010, authorities said. The park is home to the largest populations of both white and black rhinos in the country. Rhino poaching across Africa has risen sharply in the past few years, threatening to reverse hard-won population increases achieved by conservation authorities during the 20th century.

4 arrests
The South African Minister of Defence, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, has congratulated SANDF for arresting four alleged poachers in the Kruger National Park. The Mozambican nationals were found in possession of hunting rifle, binoculars, axe and cell phones. They will appear at Skukuza Magistrate Court.

"We congratulate the SANDF members for arresting poachers. It has been 15 days since they deployed into the Park and we can see the results already. We will continue to work with the law enforcement agencies to secure our borders and to deal with rhino poaching", said Minister Sisulu.

"Our national parks are major assets, and we will protect them for the future and those who pose any threats to our animals will meet the full might of the law. We have declared war with poachers in all our parks," added Minister Sisulu.

The SANDF is currently deployed along the Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho borders. At the end of the financial year 2012/13 the SANDF will cover the entire over 4471 kilometres of land between South Africa and Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, and Lesotho.

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Dehorn or Poisoning?

2011-04-21T03:16:00.000-07:00

Last week there was a dehorning by poachers of a rhino in the Save Conservancy. The most horrifying aspect of this atrocity was that the mutilated rhino did not die in the attack and was left wandering around in agony. Coincidentally, as seen on the South African TV programme, Carte Blanche last Sunday, a very similar incident happened in South Africa recently where the horns were hacked out of a rhino and it was also left alive. The footage was extremely upsetting.

Dehorning - Limited success and other issues
Various methods are employed to try and prevent rhino from falling prey to poachers but the slaughter and maiming of this endangered species continues unabated. Dehorning is quite a popular method but this doesn't seem to deter the poachers. The rhinos endure a certain amount of stress in the dehorning exercise and once their horn has been removed, they no longer have that defence mechanism. In the case of female rhinos, when they give birth to a calf, they need the horn to help the newborn rhino to its feet. The other disadvantage of dehorning is that the horn grows back and the dehorning process has to be repeated on a regular basis throughout the rhino's lifetime.

Poisoning rhino horns.
Instead of spending money on dehorning, we believe that the best and most cost effective way to minimize the poaching and try to prevent the extinction of the species is to administer poison to the horns. This was done by a farmer in South Africa and he says the poison, whilst deadly to humans, has no effect whatsoever on the rhino. This may seem like a drastic measure but the only way to prevent rhino poaching is to discourage people from buying it and it would only need to be done once to each rhino. Signs could be erected where rhinos are kept warning poachers that the horns are poisoned. Warnings could also be issued through media campaigns worldwide and the word would soon get around that consumption of rhino horn could prove fatal.

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Pick of the week.

2011-04-21T01:44:00.000-07:00

Campi ya Kanzi - 'Camp of the hidden treasure'

This eco-friendly lodge lies on the slopes of Kenya's Chyulu Hills (The Green Hills of Africa of Ernest Hemingway), which look toward Tanzania's majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Most awarded eco lodge in East Africa, chosen in the best 50 eco lodges in the World by National Geographic, it is built from local materials and uses solar technology to supply hot water and electricity to the six luxury tented cottages and two tented suites.

The 400 square mile Maasai Reserve has many different environments, reflecting in a great array of wildlife. Beside the famous Big Five (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo), many other uncommon animals are present, like wild dog, cheetah and lesser kudu. Together with classic game drives, a game walk with your professional Maasai guide and Maasai tracker will be the highlight of your safari.

Campi ya Kanzi is proud to have tried a new way of conservation, through the complete involvement of the local Maasai landlords. Guests assist with this by contributing a daily conservation fee of $100, which is spent toward the welfare of both men and wildlife. Responsible eco-tourism preserves the wildlife heritage of this important East African wilderness and allows the Maasai to continue their traditional way of life - more than a millennium old.

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Mount Meru Hotel - Press Release

2011-04-18T04:15:00.000-07:00

MIGRATE TO SERENITY
To most people, the annual trek of the Wildebeest across the planes of the Serengeti is limited to a documentary on the Discovery Channel, and they are left to their own devices to imagine the smell of adrenaline in the air, the sound of thousands of hooves running through water masses and the impending humid anticipation of lurking danger. But to get up close and personal with one of nature’s most spectacular scenes does not imply surround sound or sitting closer to the screen.

Annually thousands of tourists journey to Tanzania to witness the famous voyage of herds of wildebeest across its grasslands. While the phrase “the rain falls mainly on the plane” may have become famous in the movie “My Fair Lady”, the meaning rings true to the vast numbers of wildebeest, accompanied by large numbers of zebra, and smaller numbers of Grant's gazelle, Thompson's gazelle, eland and impala who traverse these planes in search of fresh grazing and better water supplies.

Migration begins just after the first rains sweep the planes of the Serengeti in November. Towards the end of February, herds celebrate the arrival of the next generation of wildebeest and by May the trek moves North seeking water. The scene is indescribable – a wild series of moving columns, often containing hundreds of thousands of animals – any nature lover’s dream.

Situated between the highlands of the majestic Kilimanjaro and ground zero of the Serengeti, is the city of Arusha, Tanzania, boasting one of Africa’s leisure bastions, the Mount Meru Hotel. This newly refurbished sanctuary is the gateway to the migration and specializes in giving guests a truly African experience.

Professionally trained and friendly staff members will ensure that your voyage to the flatlands of Africa is not a stampede, but a leisurely experience of tranquillity and luxury. They will gladly assist in organizing an unforgettable experience, not only of the Serengeti, but also of Tanzania. If roughing it is not your cup of tea, put your feet up and relax in style whilst surrounded by the best of African hospitality.

According to the hotel’s resident “herd tracker”, aerial surveys have confirmed a vast increase in the wildebeest population in the 2010/2011 season. Heading into May (when the herds start with their epic journey North) the anticipation is palpable. Weather forecasts predict normal rainfall patterns meaning that the herds will remain in the central Serengeti for quite a while - the ideal time to make your Serengeti experience a live one, one where you can’t hit the pause button, you just have to roll tape.

You are invited to come and discover a place with broader horizons than your flat screen, a place where the heavens meet the earth, where the rhythm of nature pounds to the beat of an African drum, and where life is all about a revival of the primal spirit. Take in Africa’s splendour – visit the Mount Meru Hotel, your gateway to life’s most spectacular experiences.

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Save the Rhino charity cycle ride.

2011-04-14T04:21:00.000-07:00

Support Save the Rhino Trust via a charity cycle ride through Namibian desert.

These unusual images show a recent relocation by Save The Rhino Trust (SRT) of ten desert-adapted rhinos into a remote, wild pocket of Northern Namibia, known as Kaokoland. The rhino population there was poached out many years ago.

If you want to support SRT, then there's an especially adventurous way to do so - the Mike Hearn Memorial Cycle Ride, a ten-day pedal for charity across the neighbouring region of Damaraland, a wild place of eternal skies and gorgeous desert. Organised by Desert Venture and fully-supported by local specialist Wilderness Safaris, the trip consists of seven days' wild cycling - along rugged tracks and Namibia's famous dirt roads, and via craggy campsites, huge desert canyons and a study base known as World's End - and a final day of ‘chilling out', which means tracking rare rhino. There's an SRT guide on hand for this purpose, and participants might also run into desert elephant, desert lion, giraffe, oryx and springbok.

Departing 25 May, the trip costs £1,675 pp including all transfers, bike hire, cycle support, nearly all meals (seven nights camping), wine with dinner and the rhino tracking. Flights are additional. Next year's dates, if these come a tad too soon, are 12-22 May. Participants cycle around 30-50 km per day, riding during the morning then taking an afternoon siesta.

Each participant is expected to fundraise, with a final target of £1,500. Proceeds go to SRT and the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation. The cost of the cycle trip is very subsidized by Wilderness Safaris, in lieu of the fundraising commitment by participants. It should cost a lot more. The fundraising is totally separate to ensure maximum transparency.

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Reintroduced cheetahs now thriving!

2011-04-13T06:49:00.000-07:00

Mountain Zebra National Park - South Africa

Visitors to Mountain Zebra National Park can now join a guide in searching for the elusive cheetahs by means of tracking with radio telemetry equipment.

Cheetah were introduced to the Park in 2007 following an absence of over 100 years from the area. The species has adapted very well to the Park, increasing in number from four in 2007 to over 30 animals. A number of cheetah have been relocated to new locations in the last few months to ensure that the integrity of the natural ecosystem balance is not affected.

The new activities include two new guided walks: a three-hour route and a hike up the Salpeterskop to view a chessboard relic from the early 1900s. Guided walks, cheetah tracking and guided drives are led by fully qualified, knowledgeable guides. The opening of guided walks follows the closure of all hiking trails in July 2010 following the tragic death of a hiker who was attacked by a buffalo on one of the hiking trails.

Walking trails
The two short walking trails (1-kilometre and 2.5-kilometre trails) are available to visitors as self-walk options, having been enclosed, along with the rest camp area, with electrified fencing.

The three-day hiking trail has yet to re-open but the two mountain cottages, formerly used exclusively as hiking trail huts, are now available as an ideal rustic getaway option for visitors with high clearance vehicles.

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Serengeti Watch Legal Defense Fund

2011-03-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

A court case against the Serengeti highway has been filed in the East African Court of Justice. This court is the instrument for settling disputes among members of the East African Community, which are Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi.

You can donate specifically to the Serengeti Watch Legal Defense Fund fund here.

If you or your organization are able to support this effort in other ways, please let us know.

The case is significant because it seeks to permanently restrain the government of Tanzania from the following:

• "constructing, creating, commissioning or maintaining a trunk road or highway across any part of the Serengeti National Park."

• "degazetting (removing) any part of the Serengeti National Park for the purpose of upgrading, tarmacking, paving, realigning, constructing, creating or commissioning" the highway.

• removing itself from UNESCO obligations with respect to the Serengeti National Park.

It states that the highway is first and foremost an infringement of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community. It would cause "irreparable and irreversible damage to the environment of the Serengeti National Park and the adjoining and inseparable Maasai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya."

Under the terms of the EAC Treaty, partner states are required to cooperate in the management of shared natural resources, notify each other of activities that are likely to have significant transboundary environmental impacts, and to follow protocols for Environmental Impact Assessment.

Other obligations cited fall under: the United Nations Convention on Biodiversity, the United Nations Declaration on the Human Environment, the Stockholm Declaration, and the African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.

The legal action was filed last December by the African Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW), located in Kenya. See the news article below.

Activists file suit against Serengeti Highway move

Serengeti Watch is supporting ANAW in their legal fight by providing funding and seeking help from other legal and environmental organizations.

This case is important. As in any court battle, there is no guarantee of immediate or even eventual success. But it is worth the fight - this has the potential of not only stopping the highway but of warding off future threats. The next time such a plan is brought forward, there will be an important decision on the books and and legal precedent to follow.

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Lions in crisis: UK and US told they must act.

2011-03-08T01:30:00.000-08:00

AT RISK: Lion numbers have nearly halved in the past 30 years.

The US and UK governments are being asked to take urgent action to help save the African lion, now seriously under threat.

The Foundation believes that unless current trends are reversed, it is possible that the continent's population of wild lions, already down to less than 40,000 animals from nearly 76,000 in 1980, will collapse. Ten years ago, lions inhabited 30 African countries. That number is now down to 27 and it is likely that they will disappear from more countries in the years ahead unless immediate action is taken.

The Born Free Foundation and Born Free USA, together with representatives of the International Fund for Animal Welfare(IFAW), The Humane Society of The United States/Humane Society International and Defenders of Wildlife, have submitted a petition to the US Secretary to the Interior calling on him to designate the African lion as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

The US is the single biggest importer of wild lion body parts and trophies and may be responsible for more than half of the lions that are killed for trophies each year.

Listing under the ESA would prohibit the general import of lion trophies into the US unless it could be shown that the importation enhanced the species' survival or was for scientific purposes. This single measure could dramatically cut the number of lions shot for ‘sport' by US citizens.

Will Travers, CEO of the Born Free Foundations explains: ‘The pressure on lions comes from all sides. Loss of habitat due to the impact of a sub-Saharan human population that is predicted to grow from 518 million in 1990 to 1.75 billion in 2050; loss of the wild animals that lions naturally prey on, due to the ravages of the commercial bushmeat trade; the impact of deadly diseases often transmitted from livestock or companion animals; retaliatory killings - the spearing or poisoning of lions after they have attacked livestock; and high levels of unsustainable trophy-hunting and body part trade.'

‘Trophy' lion parts also coming into Spain, France and Germany Although the US is the largest importer of trophies, Europe is not far behind. Between 1998 and 2008 lion trophies were imported into Spain (958), France (565) and Germany (525) amongst others. During the same period, the UK imported 87 lion trophies. The impact of an ESA listing and strong lion-protection measures in the USA could be undermined if trophies continue to be imported into the European Union.

Will Travers concluded: ‘Today, the Born Free Foundation has written to the UK Government's Minister for Biodiversity, Richard Benyon, asking him, on behalf of the British Government, to intercede with our European Community colleagues to take urgent action to end the import of lion trophies sourced from wild animals into Europe.'

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Serengeti Highway - Update.

2011-03-07T01:33:00.000-08:00

German government offers a solution.

The African Regional Manager for the Frankfurt Zoological Society, Mr. Gelrald Bigurube, confirmed that the German government will finance construction of tarmac roads that will link dozens of rural villages adjacent to the Serengeti National Park.

He also said that the World Bank and the German government are also ready to finance southern route that will link the Arusha region with the Lake Victoria regions without crossing the Serengeti.

According to an interview with the Daily News, Mr. Bigurube said, "Linking rural villages in Serengeti and Loliondo districts with the their district headquarters is the best way of addressing economic needs of the communities living near the park."

The news article says Mr. Bigurube "disclosed that the German Federal Ministry for Development was ready to finance feasibility study of the rural roads in the districts if the idea will have blessings from the government of Tanzania."

He said the "international community is also concerned with the needs of the people in an environmental friendly way but the road should not be close to the park because it will have serious impact that cannot be mitigated."

The next step is up to President Kikwete who recently turned down an offer from the World Bank to fund the alternate route.

Find out more and join the campaign to save the Serengeti: http://www.savetheserengeti.org

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Elephant Migration

2011-03-01T04:42:00.000-08:00

Tanzania - Lake Manyara & Tarangire National Parks

Northern Tanzania presents a map of administratively independent National Parks that are actually interconnected and interdependent. Following the different seasons, rain patterns and other natural “rules”, different animal species move in the Parks as they have done for hundreds of years following their instincts to ensure their survival and the survival of their small ones.

The best known of these migrations is the one conducted every year by thousands of wildebeest and zebras in Serengeti and Masai Mara following the rains and searching for fresh grass. But it is not the only migration in Northern Tanzania, and wildebeest and zebras are not the only migrating animals.

We would like to report a less known migration, but equally fascinating, another survival lesson taught by nature, that will also help us being passionate about East Africa and professionals of the travel industry, to book our clients in the most convenient locations either in Tarangire or Lake Manyara National Parks depending on the season and clients´ requirements. With all the focus on the Serengeti migration, the enormous seasonal game movements which take place in the greater Tarangire area tend to be very much overlooked and little understood. The Serengeti migration is estimated at around 2.5 million animals, including 0,5 million zebra and 1,7 million wildebeest. The remainder is made up largely of lesser antelope species.

Running perhaps 250,000 large mammals in total, the Tarangire migration is around only a tenth of the size of the main Serengeti migration, especially in terms of zebra and wildebeest but it includes a much wider range of species, including giraffe, buffalo, oryx, ostrich and lion and, by far, the most significant component of this migration is the elephant population, which is thought to involve 5,000 to 10,000 animals. If one were to call it the Elephant Migration, it might achieve a much greater recognition.

As we start understanding this Elephant Migration, it should be noted that whilst the Serengeti migration tends to stick together for large parts of the year and is accessible as an entity in various locations, the Tarangire / Manyara migration is much more of an annual aggregation and dispersal pattern, therefore only being a visual phenomenon for the period during which it comes together. Tarangire National Park covers a very large area of 2,600 km2, but lies at the heart of an ecosystem which is around ten times that size.

The Tarangire National Park forms part of a bigger wildlife ecosystem covering over 20,000 sq km, which include the Lake Manyara National Park in the north, as well as five other surrounding wildlife controlled areas. The key to this wildlife ecosystem is the Tarangire River, and the local animal migration in the area begins from this river, at the start of the short rainy season around October every year. At the height of the long rainy season, the animals, which include wildebeest, Thompson gazelles, zebra and even African elephants, will be widely spread out over this 20,000 sq km area. When the wet season ends, the animals begin their migration back towards the river and spend the dry season July to October, concentrated in large numbers around the river.

The animals mostly disperse during April and May, when there is widespread greenery, vegetation and standing water to encourage all the grazers further afield. In June, the eland and oryxes begin to return, followed by elephant towards the end of the month. Tarangire is a great spot for elephant gatherings at the end of the rainy season in June, and zebra and wildebeest return together through July.

By mid-August all the animals are congregating around their last reliable water source, the Tarangire River. The calving season falls in the early months of the year, through January, February and March, and so makes the most of the fresh grass during the rainy season. There are a number of permanent year-round water sources in the area, which is crucial for the survival of animals.

The most significant of these water sources is the Tarangire River, which arises at the foot of the nearby Rift escarpment, flows into the park and then evaporates from its terminus at Lake Burunge on the western border of Tarangire NP.

During the dry season, July to October, game migrates to Tarangire National Park from the enormous hinterland and gathers in very high concentrations within the Park, and particularly along the central river valley. During the converse season, November to June, the presence of seasonal waterholes enables the game to migrate outwards, spreading across the surrounding game control areas.

Although the in and out movement is common, different species tend to move on different routes at different times. Wildebeest and zebra mainly move northwards towards Lake Manyara and beyond in the direction of Lake Natron, crossing the main Arusha to Serengeti highway along the way.

The main bulk of the wildlife, including buffalo, gazelle, elephant, kongini, eland and oryx move out onto the plains to the east and southwest. Other herds of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo and eland also move in a more southerly direction. Resident species which remain within the park include waterbuck, impala, warthog, duikers, giraffe and lesser kudu.

With regards to elephants, as migratory animals, sustainable management of African elephant populations, both within and around protected areas, is a major challenge in the conservation policy of many African countries. Migration routes in the zone are characterized by higher cover (open and closed forest) than core areas.

Outside the park poaching occurs at times, and hence it looks like elephant management must be considered across park boundaries and migration corridors must be protected against human disturbance and land cultivation. Society problems linked to elephant conservation can be solved by creating alternative, sustainable, use of natural resources that enhance the livelihood of local communities.

By LLA

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Migration Update

2011-03-01T04:38:00.000-08:00

The wildebeest and herds of zebra are concentrated around the Hidden Valley and Miti Mitatu Areas. Some are even headed towards Kusini due to the lack of rain around the Ndutu area for the past week. During this last month a lot of our clients have witness the calving and then also sadly the circle of life taking place with a lioness hunting a newly born calf. The cats are still numerous and families up to 22 members have been seen.

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Client Feedback

2011-02-25T06:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Bruce

Well first let me say well done Bruce! You did a fantastic job and found us a dream holiday :)

The service we received from you from the start of our enquiry to our return has been first class. Pure Zanzibar should be very proud of it’s employees if they all work as well and efficiently as you.

Everything was as you had described it . You listened and understood what we were looking for in our holiday and really came up trumps. All the advice and information you gave us was accurate and very useful. I would have no hesitation in recommending either Pure Safari or Pure Zanzibar to anyone.

The flights all went smoothly, the Safari Camp in Selous was amazing. The game drive started from being picked up from the airstrip. And wow what a game drives we had!!! There was so much game at times it was difficult to know where to look first. The guide could not have tried harder to please and we saw everything we asked for from Warthogs to Lions!!! The people were all fantastic. I honestly could not fault the staff in any way they started our holiday with a swing they were such good fun and very friendly and helpful. The food was fab and the beer even better. If I really wanted to find fault the only thing I can possibly think of was the swimming pool could have used a little TLC. The river safari and the walking safari were both wonderful, very relaxed but full of information.

Ras Nungwi was very nice hotel with everything we could have needed. We had a wonderful time and once again the staff were faultless and the food very good. Iskaka was one employee who stood out. He was so helpful and welcoming without being in any way obtrusive it was a real pleasure to meet him.

Echo beach. Well that’s an experience all of it’s own!!! The snorkelling straight from the beach was amazing at high tide. As was the snorkelling trip arranged via their dive centre. The food was superb the people were a joy to be around. The accommodation was well thought out and heavenly with large beds on the veranda to lazy on whilst looking out over the bluest of blue seas. Or listen to the bush babies call as darkness falls.

Stonetown was great fun. Yes there were lots of people who wanted your attention and wanted to sell you an amazing array of stuff but at no time did I feel bothered or hassled in any way.
I would have liked to have spent more time there although the hotel was not for the faint hearted with the number of stairs to climb!!!! But I should have perhaps expected that, with the buildings being so old etc.

Thanks again Bruce it was a holiday which will always stand out for so many reasons – all of them good :)

Although the holiday was not cheap I really do feel that we had amazing value for money. Some of the places we went to and things we had the chance to see and do were the stuff dreams are made of.

Well done :)

Kind regards

Mandy (with the great big smile! )

Rhino Love

2011-02-17T10:49:00.000-08:00

Just a year after relocating four Northern white rhinos from a zoo in the Czech Republic to Kenya, they are now mating.

The move from captivity back to the wild - under the protection of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy - is part of a final bid to save the Northern white from extinction.

The rhinos are four of just eight known Northern white rhinos, so hopes that they would settle comfortably into their new environment have been surpassed with the news that they are mating - offering a chance of survival for the sub-species.

The first mating was between Fatu and Suni, both former residents of Dvur Kralove Zoo. The second mating was Sudan - the oldest northern white male - with a southern white known as Aramiet.

‘To see the old boy has still "got it" is hugely encouraging and he also has his eye set on Taura, another one of the southern white females,' says a Conservancy spokesperson.

The Ol Pejeta Conservancy is not-for-profit wildlife conservancy in the Laikipia district of Kenya and the largest sanctuary for black rhinos in East Africa.

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2011-02-08T08:38:00.000-08:00

Mozambique
Visa fees at the Vilanculos Airport have increased to USD 95, per person with immediate effect. (Visa fees do vary according to entry point)

Visitors from UK are advised to obtain their entry visa in advance to avoid delays at the airport. The visa fee if obtained from the High Commission in London for example, taking 3 days to issue,is £40.

If this not possible, visitors are advised of this increase to ensure they have the correct amount available in cash $US, to obtain their visa at the airport.

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Tanzania – update on the progress of the Serengeti Highway.

2011-02-03T02:12:00.000-08:00

Despite world protest and a recent offer from the World Bank, Jakaya Kikwete, President of Tanzania, states that the northern route through the Serengeti will be built.

Recently, a leading Pan-African organization dealing with human rights and animal welfare has filed a case at the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) in Arusha, against the proposed construction of a highway through Serengeti plains.

The African Network for Animal Welfare is seeking an interim order of injunction to restrain the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania from constructing the proposed Arusha-Musoma highway which is reportedly going to cut through the Serengeti National Park.

Lawyer Saitabao ole Kanchory of Kanchory & Co Advocates representing the Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW) filed the case at the EACJ chambers located within the Arusha International Conference Centre complex. With this case in court, it may buy a little more time. More time to get more people participating in charting a positive way forward for our wildlife and local communities in Serengeti.

Need more info?

Please join the campaign on: http://www.savetheserengeti.org

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Yellow Fever

2011-02-01T03:39:00.000-08:00

We hope this email finds you very well.

We are sending you this urgent information regarding the changes in Government regulation in Zanzibar with respect to the yellow fever vaccination as a requirement to enter the islands. You will recall that the current regulation made it compulsory to show the yellow fever vaccination only when coming from countries where there is yellow fever, but not when coming from any European airport direct into Tanzania, for example.

This has changed and we have just been informed by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators that the Government of Zanzibar has implemented as on 26th January a new regulation by which yellow fever vaccination certificates will be asked to all the tourists at all the entry points (airports & ports), regardless of their origin and routes.

Whilst the measure has been implemented in Zanzibar alone for the time being, we expect the mainland Government to implement it soon, and therefore we are addressing this email to you to ask you to inform all your clients arriving in Tanzania (either by road, sea or air), to carry with them their International Certificate of Vaccination with a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

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Client Feedback

2011-01-24T01:19:00.000-08:00

Lake Manze - Selous Tanzania

Michalik x1 7-11 January

I came without any expectations, but what I’ve experienced was beyond my imagination. I loved the African bush and your hospitality. I will be back.

Les

Lister x2 13-16 January

To all the staff at Lake Manze: Thank you for an amazing few days – a truly magical experience. All aspects of our stay have been beyond our expectations – the organisation and flexibility – the friendliness – the knowledge of our guides – Victor is amazing and Omari the best driver ever – the boat safari and fishing were also both great experiences – Thank you to our guide. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our stay in Tanzania. Sarah, thank you for everything, you should be, and I am sure you are, very proud of the team here. Our very best wishes for the future.
Beryl and Frances

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Client Feedback

2011-01-20T04:09:00.000-08:00

The Palms - Zanzibar

HI Bruce

Just to let you know that Taryn and I had an amazing time in Zanzibar, We really loved the palms and would recommend it highly. The staff were great, very friendly and efficient. The rooms were great, with ample space and well cleaned daily. Food was good, but did get a bit much with four courses every meal, but not really a complaint.

All in all a fantastic venue/holiday.

Regards

Brendan

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A new Sudan?

2011-01-20T02:29:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, more than three million people in South Sudan are expected to vote in a referendum to create a new nation in Eastern Africa. As they do so, there is a historic opportunity, perhaps unprecedented, for wildlife conservation, sustainable natural resource management, and environmentally-friendly ecotourism to be integrated into the nation-building process.

Land-use issues loom large in the election. Vast oil deposits in southern Sudan account for roughly 98 per cent of the region's current revenues and will come under the South's management if it becomes a separate country. The White Nile flows through southern Sudan toward Khartoum, adding water to the region's resource issues.

Home to spectacular 1.3million antelope migration
The hidden jewel in this unique landscape is its stunning wildlife. Before civil war broke out in 1983, southern Sudan boasted some of the most spectacular and important wildlife populations in Africa and the world's second-largest wildlife migration - of some 1.3 million antelope. Large populations of buffalo, antelope, elephants, and chimpanzees were neglected and presumed lost during the two-decade war.

At the request of the provisional government of South Sudan, the Wildlife Conservation Society surveyed Sudan for wildlifein 2007, thanks to funding from USAID and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The magnificent antelope migration and vast tracts of savannas, wetlands, and woodlands remained largely intact.

The government's task now is to establish conservation and sustainable natural resource management as part of the region's development strategy.

Need more info?

Please contact our experts in Safari Holidays now.

Call: 0044 (0)1227 753181

African Elephants are two different species.

2011-01-14T04:01:00.000-08:00

Contrary to the belief of many scientists, new research confirms that Africa has two - not one - species of elephant. Scientists from the University of York, as well as America's Harvard Medical School and the University of Illinois used genetic analysis to prove that the African savanna elephant and the smaller African forest elephant have been largely separated for several million years.

The researchers compared the DNA of modern elephants from Africa and Asia to DNA that they extracted from two extinct species: the woolly mammoth and the mastodon. Not only is this the first time that anyone has generated sequences for the mastodon nuclear genome, but it is also the first time that the Asian elephant, African forest elephant, African savanna elephant, the extinct woolly mammoth, and the extinct American mastodon have been looked at together.

‘Experimentally, we had a major challenge to extract DNA sequences from two fossils - mammoths and mastodons - and line them up with DNA from modern elephants over hundreds of sections of the genome,' says research scientist Nadin Rohland of the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School.

Split between two elephants as old as that between humans and chimpanzees
According to David Reich, associate professor in the same department: ‘The surprising finding is that forest and savanna elephants from Africa - which some have argued are the same species - are as distinct from each other as Asian elephants and mammoths.'

Researchers only had DNA from a single elephant in each species, but had collected enough data from each genome to traverse millions of years of evolution to the time when elephants first diverged from each other.

‘The divergence of the two species took place around the time of the divergence of the Asian elephant and woolly mammoths,' says Professor Michi Hofreiter, who specialises in the study of ancient DNA in the Department of Biology at York. ‘The split between African savanna and forest elephants is almost as old as the split between humans and chimpanzees. This result amazed us all.'

The possibility that the two might be separate species was first raised in 2001, but this is the most compelling scientific evidence so far that they are indeed distinct.

Previously, many naturalists believed that African savanna elephants and African forest elephants were two populations of the same species, despite the significant size differences. The savanna elephant has an average shoulder height of 3.5 metres whereas the forest elephant has an average shoulder height of 2.5 metres. The savanna elephant weighs between six and seven tons, roughly double the weight of the forest elephant.

DNA analysis revealed a wide range of genetic diversity within each species. The savanna elephant and woolly mammoth have very low genetic diversity, Asian elephants have medium diversity, and forest elephants have very high diversity. Researchers believe that this is due to varying levels of reproductive competition among males.

‘We now have to treat the forest and savanna elephants as two different units for conservation purposes,' says Alfred Roca, assistant professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois. ‘Since 1950, all African elephants have been conserved as one species. Now that we know the forest and savanna elephants are two very distinctive animals, the forest elephant should become a bigger priority for conservation purposes.'

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Need more info?
Please contact our experts in Safari Holidays now.

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Poaching Report

2011-01-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

A total of 333 rhinos were lost to poaching in 2010, CEO of South African National Parks (SANParks), Dr David Mabunda, said yesterday. In the first 10 days of this year, five rhinos have been killed.

Last year 162 people were arrested in connection with poaching and most recently, SANParks confirmed that five poachers died in two separate incidents at the Kruger National Park (KNP) after poachers opened fire on rangers at the Crocodile Bridge and Pretoriuskop.

The worst hit areas last year were the KNP with 146 rhinos poached, North West province with 57, Limpopo province with 52 and KwaZulu Natal with 38. Provinces with fewer rhinos were least targeted by the criminals.

“The year 2010 will always be remembered as being one of the worst years for conservation in South Africa because of the ruthless assault on our rhino populations by merciless criminals,” said Dr Mabunda.

The 162 people arrested last year range from actual poachers to couriers. “The number of arrests made is considered to be an indication of the meaningful interventions brought by the National Wildlife Crime Reaction Unit (NWCRU) as the figure for arrests in the KNP alone for 2009 was 29 people and in 2010 the park arrested 67 suspects,” Dr Mabunda added.

Dr Mabunda said it was unfortunate that about five suspected poachers died during encounters with rangers on patrol in the KNP and one in the North West Province as the country would have preferred these suspected criminals to have their day in court and explain to the nation why they would commit such an unforgivable crime. “As much as the killings are regrettable, it is also an indication of how serious SANParks and the entire conservation fraternity are about fighting the surge in poaching happening in protected areas.”

Dr Mabunda said this year the NWCRU was planning to increase the intensity of investigations and arrests by reaching the higher echelons of poaching syndicates. “With the help of the international community we are confident we will be able to break these syndicates.”

Call: 0044 (0)1227 753181
Need more info?
Please contact our experts in Safari Holidays now.

Call: 0044 (0)1227 753181

Uganda decides against game hunting.

2011-01-11T05:18:00.000-08:00

Uganda has yielded to pressure and decided not to permit sports hunting in the country in the immediate future. The decision is the result of considerable controversy over the fact that game numbers in the country had not been verified and also in response to suggestions made by Ugandan hunting promoters that the endangered Sitatunga gazelle would be ‘available' as a trophy - despite the fact that it is CITES protected. The Ugandan Wildlife Authority has now agreed to carry out a game survey while expressing doubts over the sustainability of hunting in view of Uganda's reducing game numbers.

Please view our Uganda Hotels on the link or call our safari holiday experts on: 01227 753181

Uganda - Bridge over the River Nile

2011-01-11T05:16:00.000-08:00

The Ugandan government has announced that the new bridge across the Nile in Jinja, worth 109 million US Dollars and largely financed by the Government of Japan, is expected to be ready by 2016.

Please view our Uganda Hotels on the link or call our safari holiday experts on: 01227 753181

Elephants slaughtered to feed Mugabe’s party

2011-01-11T03:45:00.000-08:00

On 7th October 2010, in Zimbabwe, President Robert Mugabe held a ZANU PF rally combined with the official opening of the Women's Empowerment Bank.

In order to entice people to attend this event, 3 elephants, 3 buffaloes and a number of smaller animals were shot and cooked. It is common knowledge that under the current economic climate, many people in the rural areas are starving and will make an effort to attend any function where free food is available.

Courtesy of the Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force. Please help them if you can.

What should you bring on Safari?

2011-01-10T08:13:00.001-08:00

We are often asked: What should I bring on safari?

Naturally it depends a little on your choice of safari destination and the time of year you are travelling, however please see our useful guide to the most common items.

Please see our: What to bring on Safari page.

Please contact our safari holiday experts for more info or call: 01227 753181

Mountain Gorilla Census

2011-01-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

The endangered mountain gorilla population in Virunga, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is growing steadily according to the latest census.

GROWING POPULATION: But there are stillfewer than 500 mountain gorillas living inthe Virunga Massif.

There results confirm that as well as a 3.7 per cent increase year on year, over the past seven years the population has grown by just over 26 per cent.

Please follow the link to read more or contact our safari holiday experts.

Liwonde National Park Aerial Census

2011-01-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

October 2010 saw the most comprehensive aerial survey report for Liwonde to date. The fact that the Wilderness Trust has funded this survey for the past four years, means that it is possible to see the benefit of our long-term support for this exercise which is beginning to illustrate meaningful trends.

Please follow the link to read more or contact our safari holiday experts.

Botswana Promotion

2011-01-10T07:14:00.000-08:00

9 Camps, 1 rate

Please follow the link for our latest Botswana Safari Promotion.

For further info please contact our safari holiday experts on: 01227 753181

Botswana FAQ

2011-01-06T07:22:00.000-08:00

Botswana

What are the differences between the Nxai Pan & Tau Pan?

Please follow the link above to find out.

Zambia Departure Tax

2011-01-06T05:21:00.001-08:00

The cost of the $5 for international departures is NOT in the ticket and this is payable at departure in Cash at the same desk where the departure tax is paid for internal flights. This tax will eventually be in the ticket but as of now the above procedure has to be undertaken. This also applies for all international travel regardless of where the tickets were issued or the date of issue. This causes long lines at the airport and passengers should check in at least 3 hours before departure until this tax is in the ticket.

Client Feedback - Lake Manze

2011-01-04T05:43:00.000-08:00

Please view the latest feedback writen by our guests in the Lake Manze guest book.

Angeli x4 21-24 Dec.

Jambo. Had a beautiful time here at the camp, the people were really very nice and open. Don?t want to go, will be back soon!
Chloe

A fantastic place, with wonderful views, so many things to do, so much to see, not enough time. Staff and camp are excellent, the real Africa! A return trip a definite.
Christine

Jambo, incredible and wonderful scenery! (nini) what a safari. Everything is as it should be! The wild life is amazing! The staffs are brilliant. Just perfect. Thanks
Amelia

Seychelles Guide

2011-01-03T09:15:00.000-08:00

Looking for a guide to the Seychelles? Look no further. Please follow the links.

Looking for somewhere to stay in the Seychelles? Check out the stunning, North Island in the Seychelles - absolute paradise.

Two more windmills

2011-01-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

In Hwange, there are no natural rivers and so wildlife must get their water from pans that are filled in the rainy season. In the dry season though, these pans must be pumped. Up until now Wilderness Safaris and Wilderness Trust have been helping out in keeping some 22 diesel pumps working throughout winter so that our wildlife will survive. Recently, with the support of Hwange National Park, we have been looking into erecting windmills instead as these are more environmentally friendly - although they do not draw as much water from the depths. One windmill - or wind pump - was tested over the past year to great success.

We are therefore extremely grateful to report that there two more windmills in the Wilderness Safaris concession, thanks to the kind donation of Rich Jones. These 12-metre wind pumps were installed at two very active waterholes by the manufacturers Villiers Aqua Engineering from South Africa. Fraimie Vorster and his crew of six came from South Africa to install the pumps at Ngamo Pan and Airstrip Two Pan.

Installation took about two days per wind pump and within 36 hours of being active, the Ngamo Pan pump had drawn 22 000 litres of water. The maximum output of these pumps is roughly 30 000 litres per day and they seem to average about 10 to 15 000, depending on the wind. Flow meters were installed on both to monitor output and these records will go a long way to helping design an efficient water-management system within the concession.

Water is life in Hwange and animals come in their droves to the waterholes each evening. It is gratifying to see them slake their thirst on the new water pumped by the windmills. We have recently seen herds of up to 200 elephant making their way to the new water.

Space at these pans is shared between all the wildlife - eland drink neck to neck with buffalo while the elegant sable line up along the water's edge with giraffe in the heat of the day. Inquisitive jackal dart in amongst the elephant feet as the light fades and quickly drink before heading off into the night. Flocks of sandgrouse fill up their feathers as the light finally fades and are seen flying off to distant places in a flurry of near silent wings.

Rhino poached in Serengeti

2010-12-22T04:50:00.000-08:00

We regret to bring you this news. But perhaps the life and death of this one unfortunate rhino will be the tipping point in the decision to stop the Serengeti highway.

Last May, there was celebration as five black rhinos were translocated from South Africa to the Serengeti National Park. President Kikwete himself went to hail the occasion.

The rhinos were introduced into the very area where the new highway is to be carved out.

Now one of those rhinos is dead, the victim of poachers, it's horns likely on the way to a shop in China. The introduced rhinos were supposed to be carefully protected with satellite tracking and special guards. Donors are questioning whether to bring up the 32 other rhinos that are scheduled for relocation in the Serengeti.

The Frankfurt Zoological Society reported:

"Though the rhinos are all under 24-hour surveillance by the special Serengeti Rhino Protection Unit and were equipped with radio transmitters prior to their release, George has none-the-less fallen claim to the brutal actions of poachers - he was shot dead and found with his horns sawed off."

Read more on how to stop the Serengeti Highway

Lawsuit filed against highway

2010-12-22T04:49:00.001-08:00

A Kenya organization, African Network for Animal Welfare, has filed an injunction to stop the Government of Tanzania from constructing the Serengeti highway. Lawyer Saitabao ole Kanchory of Kanchory & Co Advocates, representing ANAW, last Friday filed the case at the East African Community chambers in Arusha.

Besides an interim injunction, ANAW asks that the court declare the road unlawful under provisions of the East African Community Treaty.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS: THE MIGRATION REACHES THE SOUTHERN SERENGETI

2010-12-21T07:58:00.000-08:00

The vast migratory herds of zebra and wildebeest have now settled in the Southern Serengeti in the Ndutu region. The Serengeti Under Canvas camps are perfectly situated at Ndutu, within close range of the impressive herds. The enormous herds are overwhelming and the sightings have been unbelievable. Watch this space for more updates in the New Year! Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and safe holiday season and an exciting new year ahead.

Namibia Elephant Population Dynamics Project

2010-12-10T04:21:00.000-08:00

Update from the Wilderness Trust

During the past year, aerial photogrammetry of elephant herds was conducted at several localities in Namibia including Etosha, Kaudum, and the Kunene. These areas are characterised by differences in local rainfall, incidence of disease and human impact and can thus be used to adequately describe and compare the response of the elephants' regulating mechanisms to variation in rainfall and disease.

Where possible, post-mortem examinations were also carried out on elephant and cause of death noted. Results from these post-mortems together with photogrammetry-determined demographic data are under analysis. Preliminary data analyses show significant differences in recruitment in the respective areas.

The assessment of the age structure of elephants in Etosha was done by means of fixed-wing and helicopter surveys across the entire Park from west to east. This provided a sample size in excess of 600 elephants, which is representative of approximately 25% of the estimated number of elephants in Etosha. A helicopter survey of Kaudum and the Nyae Nyae Conservancy provided a sample size in excess of 1 500 elephants, which represents approximately 50% of the estimated elephant population in this area. A dedicated helicopter survey of elephant numbers and demography of the ephemeral river systems and adjacent areas of the Kunene Region provided a sample size in excess of 200 elephants.

If you would like to visit Namibia or donate to the Namibia Elephant Population Dynamics Project please contact one of our safari holiday experts on 01227 753181

The FIFA World Cup tourism boom in South Africa

2010-12-08T07:17:00.000-08:00

The successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup brought a tourism boom to South Africa between June and July of this year and gave SA new look on the international stage.

It is from this triumph that South Africa aspires to restore a reputation for being a tourist destination of choice to visitors across the globe.

According to results from a research study conducted by South African tourism there has been a radical change of mindset from tourists who visited the country during the tournament - most of whom were sceptical about the country before the World Cup because of what they had read in the media about the country before they arrived.

It is this swaying of minds, probably more than any of the other achievements, that will be the legacy of hosting the event. Just over 300,000 tourists visited South Africa to watch the FIFA World Cup, an impressive figure for the country especially during a time when South Africa's local authorities were worried that the global financial crisis might put off people from travelling to the country.

Amongst other things, the tourism report noted that most people who visited the tip of the Southern African continent are keen to come back and explore the country further as tourists.

Nine cities hosted the finals in South Africa, but out of those, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban were the most popular spots for tourists. Johannesburg is the business hub of South Africa, while Cape Town and Durban remain prime tourist destinations.

Approximately 90 per cent of tourists who attended the 2010 FIFA World Cup mentioned that they would consider visiting South Africa again in the future and nearly all were willing to recommend the country to their friends and relatives.

According to the report, a total of 309,554 foreign tourists arrived in South Africa for the primary purpose of attending the 2010 FIFA World Cup between June and July and those tourists spent about R3,64 billion during their stay.

The study also revealed that:

1. The average person who visited the country during the event spent just over ten nights in South Africa. There were a number of issues contributing to time spent in the country. Some fans returned home after their teams were eliminated and some arrived in South Africa during the event following the success of their teams.

2.Out of the places fans visited, Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria), Western Cape (Cape Town) and KwaZulu-Natal (Durban) were the most visited provinces.

3.Shopping and enjoying nightlife were the two most common activities which tourists engaged in, apart from watching the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

3. The total awareness of South Africa as a leisure destination increased by nine per cent after the FIFA World Cup.

4.Tourists also found their experience in the country much better than they expected before arriving.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup did help improve the negative perceptions South Africa has on safety and security issues and as a value-for-money destination.

Even though the tournament was held in winter, the Fan Parks were a popular choice for many supporters. The most visited Fan Parks were also in Gauteng , KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape.

About five per cent of the 2010 FIFA World Cup tourists indicated that they visited other African countries during their trip to South Africa

In general, more than two-thirds of the tourists who attended the event perceived South Africa as a great host, and more than half who had attended previous FIFA World Cups felt that South Africa was a better host than the countries that hosted the event in the past.

Writen by ATTA

If you would like to visit South Africa please contact our Safari Holiday experts.

Botswana Feature

2010-12-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

Vast conservation areas, abundant wildlife of all shapes and sizes, and luxury camps and lodges are just some of the things that make Botswana the ideal destination for a safari holiday, says Brian Jackman.

Early morning in Deception Valley, the brief desert rains are at an end but the sweet valley grasses are still green enough to attract large herds of antelope. Most noticeable are the gemsbok, handsome beasts with faces like African tribal masks, and I watch entranced as a herd canters past – until something catches my eye.

A lion is standing at the edge of the plain, his shaggy head raised above the grasses, and at once it’s clear he isn’t just any lion. This is a full-on Kalahari male in all his glory, and probably the finest lion I’ve ever seen. (read full article)

Recommended by the BBC

2010-12-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

Please see the link below for our recent feature in BBC Wildlife Magazine within their eco-friendly wildlife travel section.

BBC Wildlife Magazine

If you would like further information on wildlife safaris please follow the link or call 01227 753181 to speak to one of our safari holiday experts.

Special Offer

2010-12-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

Save an extra 15% at Sand Rivers in the Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania.

Book before 31st Jan 2011.

Call: 01227 753181 or follow the link: http://www.puresafari.co.uk/Safari/Hotels/Sand-Rivers

Governors Camp Game Report

2010-12-07T02:38:00.000-08:00

Govenors Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya.

The early part of the month was very dry as the rains came a little later than expected and the only grass of any substance in the immediate vicinity was around the Marsh. This was where the elephant families were spending most of their time. As the grass in many places has been eaten down to stubble length the elephants have taken to getting most of their nutrition from trees. This is obvious in their dung (which is very dark due to the high tannin level in trees - their dung is usually light in colour when they eat lots of grass) and the state of some of the trees in the area. Elephants are not tidy eaters! Our Masai walking guide is very upset about this as the giraffes' food source is being disturbed. Giraffes are highly revered by the Masai!

Despite the lack of rain early in the month, there are still many zebra and wildebeest around. River crossings were still being seen at the end of the month. We think that their extended stay is due to good rains earlier in the year.

Towards the middle of the month we had good, consistent rain bringing a profusion of green growth. Suddenly everything seemed pregnant, with zebra fit to burst and lots of animal mothers walking with difficulty due to the extra weight they were carrying. First the topi calves arrived, skittering around and eventually taking off at full speed in all four directions of the compass at once. Then came the impala. It was a sad part of reality for guests to watch two black-backed jackals taking a three day old impala kid one morning. In the walking area two giraffe calves were born in quick succession, both of their feathery sets of horns proclaiming their innocence. At the moment the Mara seems like a nursery!

The five males of the Marsh Pride of lions are still finding easy pickings between Lake Nakuru and Rhino Ridge while the three sisters were seen mating with two males near Ol Duruki. The Paradise Pride has been spending most of their time near the Serena Crossing taking advantage of the late traffic of wildebeest and zebra in the area. Notch, five other males, six females and ten cubs of eleven months old were all seen together in this area on a wildebeest kill near the end of the month. Interestingly, there has been a major take-over of the Acacia Pride (in the walking area). Two big males (possibly who followed the migration) fought off the three original males and sadly killed eleven of the prides' cubs. These are two of the biggest lions we have ever seen!

Rhino sightings have been really good over the last two months, with one rhino being seen almost once a week. A big male was visible for about an hour around the Little Governors Marsh in the middle of the month and there was another sighted between Il Moran and Governors Camp towards the end of the month.

The resident female leopard of our area was seen regularly this month. In the walking area there is a particular favourite tree that a big male leopard likes to use. It is exciting to think that when guests are having breakfast in the walking area, they are very possibly no more than 300m from a slumbering leopard!

The female cheetah and her cub, in very close proximity to the three brothers, were seen around our airstrip recently. Maybe we'll have some more small cubs soon!

All in all the Mara is "greening up" beautifully. There is a profusion of youngsters, fresh grass for them to eat and, on the harsher side of life, a huge amount of food for the predators to eat. Many of the Eurasian migrants have returned, making birding a pleasure. The ever cycling seasons are revolving as they should and we are continuing to show our guests the wonders of the wild.

We hope to share the magic of our corner of the Mara with you sometime soon.

To make a booking at Governors Camp please contact our safari holiday experts on 01227 753181

Client Feedback

2010-12-07T02:36:00.000-08:00

hi susie.

just wanted to drop you a mail to thankyou for aranging such an amazing holiday for us to the selous and zanzibar. everything ran like clockwork and it didn't rain on us at all!

thanks again, hope you have a great christmas.

james and kym.

Did you know?

2010-11-26T01:59:00.000-08:00

Ruaha wildlife park is the second largest National Park in Africa.

Royal Footsteps Honeymoon Safari

2010-11-19T08:49:00.000-08:00

This wonderful luxurious and very romantic itinerary follows in the footsteps of Royalty, following the same itinerary as was recently followed by Prince William and Kate Middleton. Lewa Safari Camp is the location where the young Prince chose to propose marriage! Come and see for yourself why this was the perfect choice of location for this historic moment.

See and book the same itinerary as the happy couple: Royal Footsteps Honeymoon Safari

Attempted military coup in Madagascar

2010-11-18T11:02:00.000-08:00

FCO have released the following update following reports of an attempted military coup in Madagascar

"There is continuing political unrest in Madagascar. The situation is volatile and you should avoid demonstrations and political gatherings. You should exercise particular vigilance in Antananarivo and throughout the whole country following the referendum on 17 November.

The situation in the centre of Antananarivo remains unstable and potentially volatile. The Ambohijatovo, Lac Anosy, Antaninarenina and Analakely areas, as well as military barracks, are potential flash points and have been subject to such gatherings and outbreaks of violence. Further disruption is expected in the coming days.

On Wednesday 10 November 2010, there were disturbances in the Antanimena area, including the burning of vehicles. The unrest extended to Behoririka, Ankadifotsy and the Pochard market areas. Tear gas was used to disperse the demonstrations and some barricades were erected. You should avoid these areas where possible, including the Malacam stadium and Magro site in Antanimena."

The African Travel & Tourism Association ATTAK Newsletter - http://www.atta.travel

PRINCE WILLIAM & KATE MIDDLETON ENGAGED

2010-11-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

LEWA CONSERVANCY, KENYA Lewa Safari Camp

Prince William and Kate Middleton have just announced their engagement and will marry next year. The couple got engaged on the Lewa Conservancy in Kenya in October.

Romantics and honeymooners can follow Prince William and Kate Middleton to Kenya, and stay at Lewa Safari Camp on the Lewa Conservancy.

Please contact our Safari Experts now.

Call: 0044 (0)1227 753181

Pure Safari in Tatler

2010-11-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Need more info? Please contact our Safari Experts now.

Call: 0044 (0)1227 753181

Kenya – VISA fees back to $50 per person in 2011

2010-11-15T07:07:00.001-08:00

The temporary reduction in fees for Kenya visas will come to an end from January 1, 2011. The fees will revert back to $50 per adult and $25 per child. The government had temporarily halved the fees following problems with violent protests in early 2008 after the national elections, but prices will go back to previous amount from January 1st 2011.

Tanzania – Miracle rescues by hippo in Serengeti

2010-11-15T06:58:00.000-08:00

We would like to share this really sweet and tender story with all of you, what we believe might be the first ever recorded rescue of a baby zebra and wildebeest by the same hippo on the Mara River close to Lemala Mara Camp. Both were rescued within space of 10 minutes as they crossed over from the Lamai side, by mid October.

The photos and videos were captured by guests at Lemala Mara Camp as they were watching a major wildebeest crossing at the time.

The hippo was watching as the wildebeest herd swam past. As soon as the calf jumped in, the hippo swam up to it and pushed it along all the way across until it had reached safety on the other side. It then went back and did the same for a zebra foal just minutes later.

The wildebeest and zebra continued then moving down in large numbers from the Maasai Mara across the Lamai plains and crossing the Mara River.

Pure Safari in GQ

2010-11-15T06:54:00.000-08:00

Keep your eyes peeled for Pure Safari in the January GQ magazine.

The Tides Beach Lodge - Pangani

2010-11-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

The Tides is an exclusive, friendly and unpretentious beach resort located in the spectacular and untouched coastline in Pangani, combining the experience of the bush with rustic luxury accommodation.

The cottages at The Tides are situated right on the beach, in a tropical setting surrounded by palms, each cottage offering its own private sunbathing area.

Together with the relax and exclusivity created by the privacy and the boutique style of The Tides, guests may enjoy activities such as snorkel or scuba dive on the pristine coral reefs of the Maziwe Island Marine Reserve. Swimming, sailing, fishing or kayaking are some of the activities available.

The Tides is a family owned business: James & Alex Balfour own The Tides, and they sympathetically renovated the hotel after buying it in 2004.

It is a great place not only for the beauty of its simplicity and the great food and service but also because of the way The Tides participates with the local surrounding communities.

The Tides employs 30 people from the local village of Ushongo, donates books to the local school and makes a monthly contribution to the village directly linked to the number of guests staying at the hotel. The Tides also encourages its guests to make contributions to benefit the village and busy as much as possible from the local community, and harvests the coconuts grown at the hotel plot and donates the proceeds to its staff. Moreover, The Tides Lodge financially supports a conservation project at the Maziwe Marine Reserve, which preserves marine life and provides income for the local fishermen in a sustainable way.

The Tides Lodge is small and intimate, offering a high level of personal service in an unobtrusive and unpretentious manner.

Facilities include a beach front bar, where lunch, cocktails and a full range of drinks are served; a fine dining restaurant over looking the ocean; recently built swimming pool and shop with internet facility.

The restaurant and bar are right on the beach. The restaurant boasts excellent cuisine as well as excellent views of the Indian Ocean. Freshly caught seafood is one of the specialties. Alternatives are available for those who are vegetarian or do not eat seafood.

The cottages, which are set amid the palms lining the beach, are spacious, bright and breezy and have large well appointed bathrooms.

Accommodation consists in just 9 rooms (including 2 suites)
with bright, spacious and stylish interiors. All the cottages have modern ensuite bathrooms, and fresh tropical flowers are placed in guests rooms every day. Rooms features include king size beds with mosquito nets, electric fans, solar heated hot water and fresh drinking water, as well as locally made soaps, bathing robes and beach towels. Each room enjoys private verandahs with superb and relaxing sea view and private sunbathing area.

Activities are also one of the key features to the hotel and there are a wide range to choose from including snorkeling and SCUBA diving on nearby Maziwe Island Marine Park, game fishing, cultural tours of Pangani, beach walks and village tours, kayaking, and other water sports.

The Migration Movement Update!

2010-11-15T06:32:00.000-08:00

The wildebeest are currently quite dispersed due to the rains in both Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Park.

Clients have had great sightings at Mara River with various river crossings as well as the rhino and 2 leopards. Nevertheless, the migration is also as far down as Lobo already and clients are seeing wildebeest in their hundreds. Soon they will be in the Seronera Valley!

Did you know?

2010-10-30T06:36:00.000-07:00

There are 52 tribes in Kenya, each with their own tribal language though most people will also speak Kiswahili and English.

Client Feedback

2010-09-24T03:25:00.000-07:00

Hi Nick

I hope you are well. I have just come back from my honeymoon at the Neptune Pwani Hotel in Zanzibar, as booked through yourself. We just wanted to send an email thanking you. We both had a wonderful, memorable honeymoon, at a hotel recommened by yourself.

Your help and attention paid to us during the booking of this holiday was fantastic, and of an extremly high standard.

Seems rare to find companies now that really do seem to have a genuine interest and concern in their customers requirements, yet you and your colleagues did that on each occasion we spoke.

I would have absolutly no problem in recommending you and your company to anyone that i can.

Should we think of returning to Zanzibar in the future, you will be the first phone call i make!

Again we both thank you, and wish you all the best for the future.

Regards

Matt Hyne.

Shompole Lodge - Eco Luxury at its best.

2010-09-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

Nguruman Escarpment - Rift Valley - Kenya
Shompole Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge situated on the edge of the Nguruman Escarpment overlooking the Great Rift Valley in south-western Kenya. It is located 120 miles south of Nairobi on the Tanzanian border, near Lake Natron on a 35,000 acre core conservancy, surrounded by 140,000 acres of the Shompole Group Ranch which provides a With its stunning location lying on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Shompole is a creation of the imagination. Constructed to emphasize the beauty of natural materials, the lodge combines flowing water and smooth white walls.

Shompole consists of six stylishly furnished minimalist rooms that incorporate elements of nature such as white quartz stone, thatch, fig wood and flowing water. The smooth white walls and the use of natural forms blend effortlessly with the natural rugged surroundings of the indigenous bush. The lodge overlooks the great sun baked plains of the Great Rift Valley and the rooms are spacious and shaded, having been designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Each of the en-suite rooms has its own uniquely shaped “cool pool” and informal seating area with roll up canvas windows on all sides with spectacular views of the local scenery. The food is prepared from the finest fresh ingredients and you can enjoy your dinner in the main thatched dining room or in the privacy of your own room under the stars.

The local Maasai people are fully involved in the running of the lodge and welcome visitors to the camp and the local villages, an experience that adds an interesting cultural element to the clients´ stay. Each tented room provides a very spacious, shady oasis in this arid environment. With privacy, comfort and relaxation in mind, each room has its own cool-pool and informal sitting areas, a bathroom with a view and a specially designed tent that includes vast windows and a high canopied roof.

The main lounge and dining area consists of a high thatch roof overlooking Mount Shompole and the Rift Valley. Various levels accommodate seating areas and a lofted recess high in the roof provides an additional quiet area.

Little Shompole is composed of 2 luxury suites situated within a few minutes’ walk of the main lodge, commanding striking views across the Great Rift Valley. Complete with 9'x9' double beds, large cool pools, sun-deck, lounge and spacious bathroom with his and hers washbasins, these rooms are the ultimate in stylish privacy. The rooms also share an exclusive lounge and dining area and a 37m horizon / lap pool that looks out across Lake Natron. For clients looking for an even more exclusive and private getaway, guests of Little Shompole can enjoy the privacy of a dedicated team of staff, private guide and butler service.

Conservation, Tourism and the Maasai

2010-09-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

Kenya

The Maasai (also Masai) are a Nilotic ethnic group of semi nomadic people located in Kenya and northern Tanzania. Due to their distinctive customs and dress and residence near the many game parks of East Africa, they are among the most well known of African ethnic groups. They speak Maa, a member of the Nilo-Saharan language family that is related to Dinka and Nuer, and are also educated in the official languages of Kenya and Tanzania: Swahili and English. The Maasai population has been estimated as 377,089 from the 1989 Census or as 453,000 language speakers in Kenya in 1994 and 430,000 in Tanzania in 1993 with a total estimated as "approaching 900,000". Estimates of the respective Maasai populations in both countries are complicated by the remote locations of many villages, and their semi-nomadic nature.

Although the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments have instituted programs to encourage the Maasai to abandon their traditional semi-nomadic lifestyle, the people have continued their age-old customs. Recently, Oxfam has claimed that the lifestyle of the Maasai should be embraced as a response to climate change because of their ability to farm in deserts and scrublands.

The Maasai of Kenya and Tanzania have co-existed with wildlife for generations. The wildlife has survived because of the protection and respect that the Maasai have for the environment, having lived alongside most wild animals with an aversion to eating game and birds. Maasai are pastoralist and have resisted the urging of the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle. They have demanded grazing rights to many of the National Parks in both countries, as they have seen reduced much of the traditional grazing lands for their cattle as they became protected areas; in fact, Maasai land now has East Africa's finest game areas.

According to the Department of Remote Sensing and Resource Surveys (DRSRS), more than 60 percent of Kenyan wildlife is found on the tribal land called ‘group ranches’ belonging to the Maasai people. The popular National Parks and Reserves like Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara, Tsavo East and Samburu Game Reserve are all found in Maasai land. Their contributions to the local economy of Maasai people are minimal.

In Kenya, tourism is one of the principle sources of foreign revenues for the central government. Its direct and indirect contributions to the national economy are enormous. Other sectors like agriculture, transportation, or communication depend heavily on the tourism industry. But the tourism industry itself depends on wildlife resources as the main attraction with the government being the custodian of wildlife whether inside or outside the National parks.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR), to mention an example of Maasai land, attracts 60 per cent of the nature tourists who visit Kenya every year, earning the country $75 million in 1996, yet a very little percentage of the revenue collected seems to trickle down to local communities. Today more than 80 per cent of wildlife, which belongs to the state, lives outside protected areas on the Maasai land. The most pressing issue is the ownership of the wildlife in communal areas at a time of rapid population growth. The land is under pressure from people and wildlife. Having wild animals that they do not own, living on their land has made the Maasai grow over time less tolerant of wildlife, while they feel that the issues of land and wildlife related to them raises questions such as:

• Why would the Maasai forego their own development and needs for a wildlife resource that they do not own or use?

• Why should Maasai not share the money accrued from the wildlife that feeds on their cows and children?

• Why should communities bear the costs of conservation but not the benefits?

• If local communities own the land on which the wildlife exists, are they not the best people to implement and monitor measures to relieve pressures on biodiversity?

• Is not their full involvement in the decision-making and management process imperative for the success of conservation and development on their land?

A very dramatic question that arises from all the above is why should the conservation of wildlife have precedence over local people’s needs?

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), a state corporation responsible for conserving and managing all of Kenya’s wildlife, has done little in educating the communities around the MMNR on how to benefit from the resource on which Kenyan tourism thrives. KWS has also neglected the community; out of a population of 46,331 people, 36,138 lived below the poverty line in the Mara planning unit in 2001.

Furthermore, the theme of the 1997-2001 District Development Plan for Narok District was “rapid industrialisation for sustainable development”. This included improving the infrastructure, developing local raw materials, marketing and access to credit. In the Mara division this has hardly been realised.

The Maasai’s changing view of wildlife is driven by the fact that they do not have the marketing and financial skills to utilize the natural resource commercially, leaving them feeling that someone else is reaping what they have sown.

The government has encouraged the Maasai pastoralists to practice agriculture, but with the high numbers of wildlife found in their areas, it is impossible. The animals eat the crops and wildlife is seen as a curse and an obstacle to development.

The Maasai are becoming frustrated by the wildlife that lives on their land but over which they have no control. They are moving from seeing wildlife as something with which they must live alongside in mutual respect, to a commercial commodity to be used. In agricultural areas wildlife is even seen as a pest to be eliminated.

Their monopoly of power by KWS, a central power outside the community, prevents the chances of sustainable coexistence outside protected areas.

There has been some progress in that the community and the Maasai Conservation and Development Organization are designing a program to create self-reliance through conservation and tourism and to demarcate a core conservation area. The project aims to educate the community on how to utilize the wildlife by building tourism facilities and encouraging visitors to the area. The hope is that the benefits they see will balance their increasingly negative views of the wildlife.

The Maasai people have gradually become poorer over the years. The combinations of frequent droughts and poor markets have adversely affected their livestock-based economy. Supplementary incomes through employment are limited due to lack of education and training. The only other resource they have is the wildlife-rich land and their cultural heritage, both of which are coming under great pressure due to poverty.

The increase in human-wildlife conflicts and the gradual loss of wildlife habitat in tourism destinations have reinforced the view that local people’s involvement in the tourism industry is an essential adjunct to the concept of a nature-based tourism industry. The relationship between local communities and the tourism industry is that of purposeful interdependence.

Maasai’s themselves are one of the greatest tourist attractions in Kenya. The myth is sold as warrior and warlike tribe somewhere in Africa. The tribe's male live on the hearts of the lions they kill in the sprawling savannah.

The Maasai on their part have learned that there is a dollar in being merchandise of the curio type. So they turn out in front of their manyattas (kraal) as if in Hollywood. For a dollar, the tourist can both see this ‘creature’ of the wild and photograph it. For a job well done and the delivery of the ‘merchandise’ to the tourists, the tour guide gets his tip. The curio dealer in town is thus matched by the human curio dealer in the Maasai plains.

Too often, the temptation to become a caricature of themselves and a cliché for few dollars is too strong, and after which the tourist goes back home and says that he has seen Africa. He claims that he has seen man almost at his primeval stage. Something close to a lie, a fix image of a reality that is dynamic and in constant change. Culture as a fusion of a people's way of life is not a commodity. It is an expression of their totality and when taken otherwise, it is hard to tell between them and wildlife. In this case, the Maasai has the same camera value with a buffalo since their lives begin when the camera begins to whine and ends when it is shut down.

Culture is much more dynamic than a moment of a camera flash which is what the exotic image made of the Maasai turns it into. Culture holds the past and present, a blending that the post cards of the Maasai kills.

Culture is dynamic and the Maasai are not exceptional to that rule. The shuka-clad (a red cloth that the Maasai wrap around themselves) Maasai man is as at home with a Coke as the urbanized man from Central Province.

It is all a matter of understanding that culture is not a plastic thing. It is about real life. That is why constant long term effort from the government and the communities needs to be developed, so as Maasais benefit naturally of the revenue generated by tourism, where they play an important role, being able to choose how to play and how to live with respect for their history, culture and present situation. It is crucial for the tourism industry to understand and be able to deal with social and historical sensibilities since sustainable tourism means benefits for the tourists as well as for the local community and conservation of the natural resources that make the destination attractive to international visitors.

Written by LLA

Client Feedback

2010-09-06T03:52:00.000-07:00

Lake Manze Camp - Selous Game Reserve

We have just recieved in some feedback from our guests at the Lake Manze Camp in the Selous Game Reserve. Both of the clients below were booked by Ali, one of our safari experts.

Rollason x2 27-31 August
Thank you all very much for a marvellous trip. Really entertaining and convivial surroundings, comfortable and relaxed, good food and some genuinely excellent game. A really good experience and one which has got us determined to return to Africa soon.
Reena and Jon

Caldwell x2 2-5 September
Thank you so much to all the wonderful people at Camp Manze. We had a fabulous time! Lots of adventure, beautiful sights and amazing food! Our compliments to all. With much appreciation,
Kevin and Sherry

If you would like to contact Ali or one of the team please call: 01227 753181

2010-09-01T04:31:00.000-07:00

We have a stunning special offer for Mnemba Island.

Stay 5 and pay only 4

Mnemba Island Resort is arguably one of the most beautiful resorts found anywhere in the Indian Ocean and this offer is too good to miss. Mnemba Island is the perfect place to rest up after a safari or as a destination in its own right. Not only is it perfect for a honeymoon but also attracts divers keen to explore the pristine atoll surrounding this world class resort.

Please call: 01227 753180 for further information and reservations.

Kaya Mawa - Special Offer

2010-08-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

Likoma Island, Malawi
The real test to any refurbishment is the reaction from returning guests and agents coming for a reccea. With two returnee guests last month and a host of agents popping through post Indaba it is fair to say they all love the new look and are amazed at what has been achieved. The builders have now restarted building of our four bedroom villa 15 minutes from Kaya Mawa due to be completed by December. A perfect compliment to the Zambia Safari Houses.

After a month's training (and 97 recipes later) with Craig Higgins in the kitchens, the standard and variety of dishes will ensure that everyone's taste can be satisfied, from Cape Malay Fish (using fresh locally caught produce) to toffee crunch cheesecake. Craig Higgins, originally from Scotland, has spent over 15 years sharing his skills in Africa and has extensively trained many up & coming chefs after working long stints at Tongabezi Lodge and Mombo Camp in Botswana. His chef experience in Africa and resourcefulness to utilise local ingredients, combined with his professional training in London, Hong Kong and Italy, brings another dimension to the Kaya Mawa cuisine.

We currently have a end of year special valid from 1st November to 15th December 2010 - please call for the latest price info.

If you would like to arrange a safari to Malawi please call 01227 753181 or contact our safari experts.