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Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing Kilimanjaro, a comprehensive guide to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro by Expert mountaineers. Mt Kilimanjaro: 005.00 degrees south, 036 degrees east, 5895m. Crowned by an eternal snowcap, Mt. Kilimanjaro is situated inside the Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania; it is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. This guide aims to provide the potential Kilimanjaro climber with valuable and accurate information on climbing Kilimanjaro

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Wildebeest Migration Made Simple
A month by month guide to lodges and tours giving you the best opportunity to witness the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth.

(See our Wildebeest Migration safaris)

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

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

The Migratory Path

DECEMBER, JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH The Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Conservation Area is arguably the most impressive wildlife sanctuary in the world. During the months December through March the seemingly unending plains of the southern Serengeti and the Conservation Area are inhabited by enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra. The great herds graze on rain ripened grass.

In the calving season (late January through mid March) the herds concentrate at the Ndutu and Salei plains (Southern Serengeti / Ngorongoro Conservation Area) attracting the attention of predators like lion, cheetah and hyena.

During this period the migration is best observed from Ndutu Safari Lodge, Kusini Camp or any of several private tented camps used by mobile safaris such as our "Classic Tanzanian Tented Safari". These include campsites in the Ndutu/Naabi area.

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

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

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

This is a transitional period between the rains and the dry season. The Serengeti Serena is a central, easily accessible lodge for viewing the migration at this time. Grumeti River Camp, Migration Camp and Kirawira Camp are also options. Seronera and Moru area campsites are best.

JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER By July the countless herds have amassed along the swollen Mara River - a final barrier from the short sweet grasses of the Masai Mara. Sometimes the crossing place they have chosen is shallow allowing the majority of animals to pass safely. In other areas the waters boil with drowning wildebeest and slashing crocodiles.

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

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

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

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

11 day Classic Kenya Safari
This tour combines a safari with a beach stay along the beautiful Kenya coast. The itinerary is designed for a
relaxed pace and makes a superb holiday.
Itinerary & Price: See more Kenya Safaris: Flamingoes in Ngorongoro game reserve

12 day Ngorongoro Safari
A combined Tanzania and kenya safari, taking in the best East Africa locations including Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti as well as Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru. Tanzania Safaris: Masai woman in an African village

24 day Discover East Africa Safari
Experience the best of East Africa with a spectacular wildlife safari, taking in the adventure of Tanzania and Kenya travel , as well exotic Zanzibar for a beach vacation to end the safari.

Planning your Africa Safari

We offer a variety of safari holidays in East Africa, especial Kenya / Tanzania where safaris first started.

Kenya Air Safari Packages Africa safaris for those people who don't want to travel by road!

A selection of the best hotels and lodges in Kenya and East Africa at cheap, discounted rates are provide by our knowledgeable staffs.

We customise your Kenya / Tanzania Safari Travel - We can tailor your holiday to suit your needs or your  budget .

We also offer Active  tours such as Kenya Safari Walking holidays, cultural and mountain climbing in Kenya and Tanzania, as well as Honeymoons and Family vacations. Tanzania Safaris & Zanzibar Beach holiday

Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and the commitment to its preservation shown by the government of Tanzania is important in a country faced by land shortage and a rising population.
masai mara wildebeest migration
Wildebeest Migration - The Migration Made Simple

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

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

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

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

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

The Migratory Path (see chart below)


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*Note - the migration is a natural event and the timing varies month by month; year by year.
 
Maasai Mara Wildebeest Migration Safari, the Seventh Wonder of the world, wilderbeest migration, serengeti national park, maasai, mara river  
Kenya Wildlife Migration Safari - masai mara wildebeest migration

 The Wildebeest Migration
The Wildebeest Migration is a dramatic story. It takes place within Kenya and Tanzania and is the greatest wildlife show on earth. Between the open plains of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, thousands of wildebeest and zebras migrate to greener pastures as the seasons change and the circle of life and death continues. Predators follow the Wildebeest Migration closely, waiting for an opportunity to strike weak prey as they make their way into different territories.

The precise timing of the Wildebeest Migration changes annually and it is a very unpredictable and spontaneous natural event. The calving season takes place in the Serengeti between the months of January and mid-March before the Wildebeest Migration begins heading towards the western Serengeti in June. The best time to see the migration is usually between June and August when the wildebeest congregate and prepare to cross the famous Grumeti River. There are a few excellent camps in this area where you can stay to witness this natural phenomenon. If you are in the Masai Mara you can expect the wildebeest to make their arrival as early as July, but they generally arrive between August and September and remain in the Mara between October and November. Between December and January the wildebeest gradually begin their migration back towards the Serengeti.

We believe that going on safari to view & witness the Wildlife migration is one of the ultimate safari experiences that Africa has to offer.

 (5 Days/4 Nights Masai Mara Lodge Safari - Lake Nakuru Lodge Tour)

This is a short safari featuring Maasai Mara National Reserve. The safari departs Nairobi in the morning and involves a drive down to the the floor of the Rift Valley, making a stop at view point to see the escarpment and the awesome sight of the valley and the features there in. To arrive Maasai Mara in time for lunch, followed by a late afternoon game drive that introduces you to Kenya's most popular game sanctuary.

Departures: Daily, minimum 2 persons.

5 days Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Parks and Lodges

Kenya road Luxury Lodge safari an adventure lodge safari in Kenya at Masai Mara for 3 days at Masai Mara lodges and tented camps and a day at Lake Nakuru National park. Africa adventure luxury lodge safari in Masai Mara lodge to Lake Nakuru lodge host of Home to Flamingoes and Rhino sanctuary.Africa lodge safari a true experience

Highlights: A visit to Masai Mara game reserve with big game concentration, to lake Nakuru, home to millions flamingoes and as well as orinthologicals paradise.

Duration: 4 days
Starts: Nairobi / Ends: Nairobi
Day of Departure: Own Choise
Transport: 9 Seater Tour Van with radio communication
Standard: Mid - Luxury
Activities include: Bird Watching, Cultural Exploration, Wildlife Viewing
Parks: Masai Mara Lake Nakuru parks

Tour Itinerary:


Day 1: Nairobi / Masai Mara

Drive in morning takes you to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, the northern part of the Serengeti, one of Kenya's most favored game-viewing areas. The reserve covers 700 square miles of magnificent wilderness. It is the Africa of the imagination; endless reaches of acacia-dotted grasslands studded with hazy hills. Afternoon game drive to see the sundowner as hoping to see Lions in large prides, Elephants, buffalos, zebras and numerous plain animals. Dinner and overnight at the Masai mara sopa lodge, Keekorok Lodge.
Approx transit time: 5½ hrs
Meal plan: {L, D}

Day 2 - 3: Masai Mara
Full day game viewing coupled with exploring this spectacular Park. The Mara is the land of African legend: Lion are abundant throughout the park, as are the elephants, giraffes, and a variety of gazelle species and zebra. Cheetah and leopard are also regularly seen and, less commonly, rhino. The annual wildebeest migration, one of nature's few remaining wildlife spectacles, occurs in the Mara from July to September where the big animals and their predators are to be present in abundance during the time frame of this trip. Several species of Bee-Eater, the flying rainbow that heads the list of the Mara's birds, occur in the reserve. As well as wildlife, the Maasai Mara is also home to many members of the colorful Maasai tribe who may be seen around the borders of the park - Morans (warriors) loping across the plains, young boys herding goats, or elders grouped under a tree discussing matters of the day .A visit to a Maasai boma (homestead) reveals this outstanding culture and customs. All meals and overnight at the tented camp or Masai mara sopa lodge, Keekorok Lodge. Meal plan: {B, L, D}


Day 4: Masai Mara / Lake Nakuru

A last game run in the picturesque Maasai Mara in the morning through the Rift Valley drive to Lake Nakuru, a shallow alkaline lake in the Rift Valley, renowned for its spectacular flamingo population as one of the world's greatest ornithological spectacles. Although Lake Nakuru is primarily a bird sanctuary, there are a considerable number of animals to be encountered, such as many large game animals such as zebras, elephants and gazelles, this is one of our best chances of seeing rhinos. Lake Nakuru National Park was the first place in Kenya selected as a rhino reserve. Here is one of the few places where we can see Rothschild's giraffes. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru or Lion hill lodge. Meal plan: {B, L, D}

Day 5: Lake Nakuru / Nairobi

After breakfast, morning spent game viewing, watching and photographing birds at Nakuru National Park. Leave for Nairobi with lunch enroute and a stop for panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Arrive Nairobi late in the afternoon after driving through lush Kikuyu farmland. You will be dropped at your hotel or transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Approx transit time: 2½ hrs
Meal plan: {B}
 

Price per person US$ 1120 sharing

Prices include:
- Transportation in a custom safari minibus with pop-up roof ideal for game viewing and sightseeing.
- Services of a trained and experienced English speaking driver/guide
- Full board accommodation in the lodge/tented camp as mentioned
- Bottled water for use during the safari
- Game drives and all park entry fees

Not included:

- International air transportation to and from Nairobi
- Expenses of personal nature such as visas, travel/baggage insurance, laundry, beverages, tips etc.
- Christmas, New Year and Easter supplements.

Thank you and enjoy

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

Marangu Route 8 Days  Affectionately known as the "Coca-Cola route", Marangu is by far the most popular route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. This could partly be as a result of the fact that the Marangu is the least expensive route, but more so, perhaps the fact that it is possible to do the Marangu route in 6 days, thereby getting to the summit one day earlier than on the Machame route.

Machame Route  Sometimes called the Whisky Route. This is a popular route up steep paths through magnificent forests to gain a ridge leading through the moorland zones to the Shira Plateau. It then traverses beneath the glaciated precipices of the Southern Icefields to join the Barafu Route to the summit.

Umbwe Route  The Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach. It is probably the most scenic, non-technical route on Kilimanjaro. It is quite taxing, primarily due to the relatively fast ascent to higher altitude, but the rewards are plentiful.

Lemosho Route  This is the longest and most remote route to Kilimanjaro. After beautiful forests and moorlands it crosses the Shira Plateau to meet up with the Machame Route. Groups may be accompanied on the first day by an armed ranger as the forests around the Lemosho Glades are rich in buffalo, elephant and other game.

Rongai Route  This remote and less frequently used route is the second easiest route to Kilimanjaro. The approach to the mountain is from the less-forested north side and the descent is by the Marangu Route. There are several variations, the one described below is a longer route taking in Mawenzi Tarn.

Shira Route  The Shira route, approaches Kilimanjaro’s summit from the west and crosses the caldera of Shira Volcano before heading beneath the southern ice fields of Kibo. The route is seldom used by other trekkers and so your initial two days on the mountain are less crowded than on most other routes.

Mount Kilimanjaro Group Joining Dates 2011 / weather / Best Months to climb Kilimanjaro
Oldonyo LeNgai "Mountain of God" in Tanzania

Mount Kenya Climbing  At 5,199 m, Mount Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa. It is an ancient extinct volcano, during whose period of activity (3.1–2.6 million years ago) it is thought to have risen to 6,500 m. There are 12 remnant glaciers on the mountain, all receding rapidly, and four secondary peaks that sit at the head of the U-shaped glacial valleys. With its rugged glacier-clad summits and forested middle slopes, Mount Kenya is one of the most impressive landscapes in East Africa. The evolution and ecology of its afro-alpine flora also provide an outstanding example of ecological processes. There are three main routes, which penetrate the forest and the moorland. The routes are Naromoru, Sirimon and Chogoria and each of which has something different to offer. Naromoru is the fastest route to point Lenana but not as scenic as the other two. Mt. Kenya's Nelion Summit, Batian Summit and Point Lenana

Mount Kenya Climbing Routes
Sirimon down Sirimon  A more gradual trek to the summit, traversing areas of rich forest cover before emerging into the sprawling moorlands. This hike is usually rated as the easiest among the short trips and is quite popular with persons attempting to reach an altitude exceeding 4000m for the first time. It is a good choice for large trekking groups as it follows the same trail up and down, making it convenient for those who are unable to reach the summit to stay behind at lower camps to wait for the rest of the group to complete the trip then descend together. Unless preferred, camping is not necessary as accommodation is available in a lodge and mountain huts throughout the trip.

Mt Kenya Climb Sirimon down Chogoria  On this Mount Kenya climbing experience, you ascend via the dry and little used Sirimon Trail and descend on the scenic Chogoria Trail. You reach point Lenana (4985 m), the highest point accessible to walkers, and return to base. Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest mountain. Above the habitable altitude, you find a rainforest zone, abundant with many tree species and wildlife too. Further up is open moorland, and beyond is the snow line where vegetation is sparse. Finding snow on the equator was a great surprise for the first Europeans to get to East Africa.

Sirimon down Narumoru  The Naro Moru route is the fastest and therefore also the most popular route onto the mountain, being used by many of the tour and outfitting companies guiding clients up to Point Lenana.

Mount Meru Climbing Mount Meru is one of Africa's most beautiful volcanoes, and it is the second highest mountain in Tanzania at 4,5685m, the third highest in Africa.
The mountain is located within Arusha National Park, Tanzania’s gem. This prime location gives walkers the opportunity to spot some of the birds and wildlife that inhabit the area. The ascend is quite steep, the route to the summit passes over streams, through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. The summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge, which provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater. Weather permitting, Kilimanjaro can be seen in the West. There are two huts available to climbers on the mountain and firewood is supplied. The best time to climb Meru is between October and February. But also June to September, while it is colder then.

 

Honeymoons Vacation - Zanzibar beach holiday | Family tour | Cultural Safari

Tanzania Luxury Safari HolidayMain Attractions
A Tanzania wildlife safari is the wildlife enthusiasts ultimate destination. A number of parks throughout Tanzania offer a host of wildlife highlights. The Big Five of Serengeti National Park is a must, the stunning Ngorongoro Crater is breathtaking, the wilds of Lake Manyara take you back in time and the forested peaks of Mahale Mountains National Park and Serengeti, Gombe Reserve offer the perfect backdrop to track chimpanzees along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Ruaha, Selous...

Tanzania Safaris / Lodge / Camping book with us for cheap prices

Tanzania Luxury Beach HolidayTanzania and Zanzibar Honeymoon Trip
Safari in Tanzania then relax in Zanzibar. This twin centre safari and beach honeymoon is for those honeymooners that want something more unique..
We offer a wide range of different types of honeymoons to Africa and the Indian Oceans. To read more about our honeymoon destinations click Safari & Beach Honeymoon Holidays  WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SEASONS

The Wildebeest Migration in East Africa, also known as “The Great Migration” takes place between Kenya's Masai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the planet. Thousands of wildebeest and zebra’s migrate between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, constantly driven by their search for fresh grazing. The massive herds are closely followed by predators (lion, hyena and cheetah), making the most of every opportunity to catch their next meal.

The precise timing of the annual wildebeest migration depends on the rains. It is a very unpredictable and spontaneous natural event, with calving season taking place in the Serengeti between January and mid-March. The wildebeest migration starts to head towards the Western Serengeti in May or June.

The best time to see the migration is generally between June and August when the wildebeest congregate and prepare to cross the famous Grumeti River. If you are in the Masai Mara you can expect the wildebeest to make their arrival as early as July, but they generally arrive between August & September and remain in the Masai Mara between October & November. Between the end of November and January the wildebeest gradually begin their migration from the Masai Mara back towards the Serengeti.
 

Tanzania offers some of the best wildlife safaris in Africa. Whether visiting the Big Five of Serengeti National Park, the jaw dropping Ngorongoro Crater, the wilderness of the Selous Game Reserve or the amiable chimpanzees of Mahale and Gombe you will not be disappointed. Tanzania offers the best parks to see big cats and the big five and can be combined with some pristine beaches off the coastline where you can relax at the end of your safari...

Accommodation
A range of safari accommodation is available in Tanzania. Western style luxury lodges and luxury tented camps are available for the wildlife enthusiast. Some of the best lodges include Migration Camp, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Migration Camp, Klein's Camp, Nomad's Greytoke, Nomad's Serengeti Safari Camp and Tarangire Treetops..

Safaris
Please find below a selection of sample itineraries with approximate costs for wildlife and migration safaris to Tanzania. Some of these itineraries may also be combined with gorilla safaris to both Rwanda and/or Uganda. These are by no means all of the itineraries that we offer however they will give you a taster of what is available...For further itineraries or enquiries please do not hesitate to fill in our contact form and we will get back to you with a detailed quote and itinerary at the earliest possible convenience.
Tanzania Safaris

A Tanzania Safari with Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing provides you with the ultimate Tanzanian holiday. Experience Tanzania's rich diversity of culture and wildlife. Whether you decide upon: a luxury lodge safari to Ngorongoro Crater, a camping adventure safari in Serengeti, Lake Manyara walking tour, Tarangire Selous, Mikumi, Ruaha, Arusha, climbing Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro, relaxing on superb Zanzibar Beaches, Wedding honeymoon holiday in Africa, Family Holiday vacation Tanzania or a hot air balloon Serengeti Safari, you will have an unforgettable experience. Safari Trips hotel bookings kenya Road Safari Africa tour budget safari beach family holiday packages kenya Ngorongoro Tanzania migration tours Uganda gorilla trekking organizations luxury holiday bookings to Africa holidays in east Africa Kenya walking safari masai mara safari Kenya Tanzania wildlife migration tour Africa adventure tour safari Serengeti Kenya walking safari holidays travel Africa safari budget Tanzania camping safari Tanzania Serengeti adventure trips Kenya Tanzania Zanzibar African wildlife safari Trips Samburu Kenya holiday budget safari family Kenya incentive travel Tanzania Africa wildlife safari tours Kenya/Tanzania combined safari Kenya safari package family Africa tour group Kenya over landing safari Tanzania Africa mount kenia budget group tours of east Africa

We Safaris specializes in:

* Private, Tailor-made Tanzania Safaris, designed to suit your budget
* Breathtaking Natural History including the Wildebeest Serengeti Migration
* Safaris to the Selous Game Reserve and off the beaten track safaris.
* Trekking, mountain climbs and wilderness budget camping adventure
* Tanzania Bird watching Safaris
* Tanzania Photographic Safari
* Tanzania Cultural Safaris

For more adventurous travel, leave the tourist trail and select a private Tanzania safari in the unspoilt Southern Circuit (including the vast wilderness of the Selous Game Reserve). Alternatively, Wild Things Tanzania Safaris provides the challenge of trekking safari in the Udzungwa Mountains, Ngorongoro Highlands or Kilombero Valley. Thrill seekers may prefer to climb Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania's only active volcano or take a sunrise balloon safari across the Serengeti.

Kenya Safaris in the best National Park / Game Reserve

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Safaris is one of Kenya's finest tours, safaris and travel companies, specializing in short excursions, extended safaris, specialist and tailor-made travel and safaris, car hire, hotel and safari lodge bookings and much much more...

We cover the whole of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda with our centrally based headquarters in Nairobi - Kenya.

African Safari Holiday

An African or Kenya safari is an amazing travel experience. The diverse wildlife and stunning scenery make Kenya and East Africa the perfect safari locations.

As local, African safari operators, we offer you the best holidays with quality,
value for money and personal service.

We also customize our safaris and offer options, such as adventure travel, luxury tours and beach holidays. See our Kenyan and East Africa safari list below, as well as our Tanzania safari and Zanzibar holidays.

African Safari Selection
See below full Kenya Safari list
Kenya wildlife safaris

Masai Mara Safari wildlife tour
A 3 day safari lodge to Masai Mara, one of the most famous national parks in the world, with an abundance of wildlife. Accommodation in luxury lodges which have facilites such as swimming pools. The  Kenya Safaris: can be combined with an African beach vacation if you will be interested to see the beautiful white sand beaches in Mombasa, Lamu, Malindi, Watamu or the Tanzania Island - Zanzibar

Africa Offers
Africa is an immensely rewarding place to travel to, thanks to unspoilt natural surroundings, such as the wildlife and vegetation, and the spectacular landscapes When on safari, you may see everything from snow capped mountains to forests and
white tropical beaches, all in a day's travel- it's that diverse. Finally the local cultures add to your holiday like no where else in the world.

Safari in Africa
Safaris began in Kenya and Tanzania and these are the best destinations for a safari. A Kenya safari offers amazing diversity and superb wildlife viewing. Rift Valley, is a good location too, known as for the scenery and rich wildlife in natural surroundings.

A safari in Africa is in some ways like an expedition - exciting and adventurous, but requiring careful thought and planning , which is what we, as locally based tour operators, are there for.. however you must plan for a leisurely pace of travel to truly enjoy your tour - so whether you have 3 days or 30, make sure you do not plan for too much in your travel.

Most of your safari will be in the " bush ", but this does not mean your travel will involve "roughing it" - you can have all the luxury you want ! Africa is home to many internationally reputed hotels and lodges luxury tented camps, with well appointed rooms, excellent cuisine and deluxe facilities such as bars and swimming pools. You can also fly between most places during your luxury safari.

Africa Safari Planner : See our safari planning guide, to help with the basics of designing your trip, be it Kenya travel ,a Tanzania safari , beach vacation in Mombasa or Zanzibar or an Uganda Gorilla Trek adventure holiday.

3 Days Masai Mara Lodge/ Camping Safari
Masai Mara, Kenya
This famous wildlife park is a top safari location, and one of the natural wonders
of the world, being the site of the annual wildebeest migration..
 WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SEASONS

The Wildebeest Migration in East Africa, also known as “The Great Migration” takes place between Kenya's Masai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the planet. Thousands of wildebeest and zebra’s migrate between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, constantly driven by their search for fresh grazing. The massive herds are closely followed by predators (lion, hyena and cheetah), making the most of every opportunity to catch their next meal.

The precise timing of the annual wildebeest migration depends on the rains. It is a very unpredictable and spontaneous natural event, with calving season taking place in the Serengeti between January and mid-March. The wildebeest migration starts to head towards the Western Serengeti in May or June.

The best time to see the migration is generally between June and August when the wildebeest congregate and prepare to cross the famous Grumeti River. If you are in the Masai Mara you can expect the wildebeest to make their arrival as early as July, but they generally arrive between August & September and remain in the Masai Mara between October & November. Between the end of November and January the wildebeest gradually begin their migration from the Masai Mara back towards the Serengeti.

3 Days Amboseli Lodge/ Camping Safari or Tsavo Safari to Mombasa
Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya's oldest park, is located near the Kenya and
Tanzania border, "in the shadow" of Africa's highest mountain, the snow capped Kilimanjaro.

The park is known for its wildlife, especially it's prolific elephant population.  Amboseli also hosts the big cats, herbivores and numerous bird species including
flamingo and a variety of plains game.

Samburu Reserve, established in 1985, is an arid, hilly region with riverine forests, doum palms, acacia woodland and scrubland, offering a dramatic and rugged landscape in a rather remote location of Kenya - which is precisely the attraction of this reserve - fewer tourists in a wildlife rich, desert like setting amidst a colourful local tribe.

4 Days Kenya Bird watching - Wildlife Safari - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
6 Day  Samburu - Sweetwaters - Aberdares - Lake Naivasha
7 Days Discover Kenya Safari - Amboseli - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
8 Days Kenya Safari to Amboseli - Aberdares - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
9 Days Kenya Safari with Beach Extension - Lake Nakuru-Maasai Mara-Mombasa
10 Days Kenya Classic Safari-Amboseli-Mt Kenya- Samburu - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
11 Days Magical Kenya-Amboseli-Aberdares-Samburu-Mt Kenya-Lake Nakuru-Maasai Mara
12 / 14 / 16 /17 / 21 Days Best of Kenya & Tanzania Safari Expedition

African Safari offers you a chance to experience a natural world unchanged by the
passage of time. The Kenya Safari wilderness is home to an endless array of
ecosystems, the staging ground for natural cycles of life, death and regeneration
as old as the planet itself.

This great range of natural habitats means that there is plenty to explore, and
plenty of species to encounter during your Africa vacation. This is a land of
endless potential for the wildlife African Safari Tour enthusiast.

On a Serengeti Safari, Tanzania Safari, Kenya Holiday, African Adventure, Kenya
Vacation, Kenya Tour you will enjoy a variety of amazing African landscapes and
some of the best game viewing possible.
Our seasoned African safari professionals will help you plan the perfect Africa
Safari, Kenya Safari, Tanzania Safari, African Adventure, Africa Vacation, Kenya
Holiday and African Classic Safari.
Call us today to help make your Africa Safari dream escape happen.

Guides
At Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking / Climbing Safaris we use local guides whenever possible. We believe that local guides have that extra bit of knowledge which can make a good safari into a great safari. Through using local guides / porters we also adhere to our responsible travel policy in contributing to the local economy through tourism.

Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration

Africa Safari Destinations
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania Africa
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Join us on the adventure of a lifetime!
Mount Kenya Hiking
Mount Meru Trekking
Tanzania Safari Holiday Tour
 
Silverback Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
Gorilla Tracking Uganda: (chipanzee)One of the most awe inspiring experiences

Rwanda Gorilla Treks

Africa Top Safari Activities
African Safaris
African Safari Holidays: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo and more...
 
Nairobi Short Excursions
Mombasa Beach Holiday
Zanzibar Beach Vacation Holiday
Kenya Safari Offers / Joining
Popular Short Safari in Kenya
3 Days Masai Mara Lodge Safari
3 Days Samburu Lodge Safari
3 Days Amboseli Lodge Safari
4 Days safari from mombasa/ Tsavo/ Amboseli
4 Days Masai Mara / Lake Nakuru
5 Days Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration

masai mara wildebeest migration
Wildebeest Migration - The Migration Made Simple

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

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

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

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

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

The Migratory Path (see chart below)


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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