Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Tanzania Top Destinations

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Crater, situated at an elevation of 2,286 meters above sea level, stands as the largest unbroken caldera globally. In ancient times, it may have been comparable in size to Kilimanjaro, but as volcanic activity waned, it collapsed inward, forming a caldera. Encircled by steep walls that ascend 610 meters from the crater floor, this natural amphitheater spans approximately 100 square miles and provides a habitat for around 25,000 larger mammals, with zebras and wildebeests comprising nearly half of the population.

This Crater serves as an African paradise and sanctuary for various wildlife, including lions, elephants, hyenas, gazelles, buffalos, elands, hartebeests, warthogs, and some of the last remaining rhinos in Tanzania. Over 100 bird species, not commonly found in the Serengeti, have been observed here. The Crater’s lake is teeming with thousands of flamingos, adorning the area with the vibrant hues of their pink plumage. Recognized as a World Heritage Site, the Crater holds immense significance. In close proximity lies the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which houses renowned archaeological sites like Laetoli and Olduvai Gorge, offering visitors a glimpse into our own past. Additionally, one can witness the pastoral Masai community tending to their herds of cattle, sheep, and goats, adorned in their vibrant and traditional attire.

By road:

The journey from Lake Manyara to the Ngorongoro Crater covers a distance of 80km/50mi and typically takes approximately two hours to complete. On the other hand, the drive from Tarangire spans 180km/110mi and usually requires around four hours of travel time. For those planning to reach Arusha, the most convenient choice is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located approximately 46km/29mi away from Arusha.

By Air:

Arusha serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the parks of the northern circuit. Travelers have the choice of either taking small aircraft on chartered or scheduled flights or embarking on a safari vehicle to complete the entire circuit.
One popular option is to fly into the Serengeti and then return by safari vehicle, either via the Ngorongoro crater or vice versa. In most cases, your tour operator will arrange for your pickup from the airport. If you are coming from the Seronera area in the Serengeti, the distance to the crater is approximately 140km/90mi, and the journey by road takes around three hours. However, it is important to note that this duration can be extended significantly due to the opportunity for wildlife viewing along the way.

The Ngorongoro Crater in Africa is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. It boasts a diverse range of safari animals, with abundant populations of all the major species. One of the highlights is the resident population of black rhinos, which is a rare treat considering how elusive they are in other parts of Tanzania. Additionally, the crater is home to magnificent elephant bulls with impressive tusks. 

Another spectacle is the presence of large flocks of flamingos in Lake Magadi. Regardless of the time of year, you can always spot wildlife on the crater floor. However, the Dry season from June to October offers optimal viewing conditions as the undergrowth recedes, making it easier to observe animals congregating around waterholes and rivers. The wetter months may have fewer visitors and lower accommodation rates, but the viewing experience is superior during the Dry season.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area boasts a pleasant and moderate climate. The region encounters two distinct Wet seasons. The first one occurs from October to November, known as the ‘short’ rains, followed by the ‘long rains’ from March to May. Rainfall typically manifests as showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon, although it is uncommon for it to persist throughout the entire day. While the crater remains relatively cool during the day, the crater rim experiences chilly temperatures and even freezing conditions at night. Therefore, it is essential to have warm clothing for early morning game drives.

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Lake Manyara National Park

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Lake Manyara National Park

As you approach Lake Manyara National Park, the Rift Valley escarpment emerges on the eastern horizon, creating a breathtaking backdrop to the lake. Nestled at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the park is renowned for its exceptional beauty. The park’s diverse habitats are easily visible, including the rift wall, the lush ground water forest, acacia woodlands, expansive grasslands, the serene lake shore, swamp, and the lake itself.

Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife such as lions, often found resting in the acacia trees, zebras, elephants, waterbucks, hippos, baboons, and a wide array of bird species. It is truly awe-inspiring to witness the stunning setting on the edge of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, overlooking the magnificent Great Rift Valley and the captivating Manyara soda lake. While the allure of tree climbing lions is undeniable, the park’s extraordinary birdlife has also earned it global recognition among ornithologists, who flock here to observe the vibrant flocks of pink flamingos and birds of prey.

By road:

Lake Manyara National Park is situated in the northern part of Tanzania, approximately 126 km west of Arusha town. It is conveniently positioned along the Makuyuni-Ngorongoro road, making it easily accessible by both road and air transportation, including charter or scheduled flights. The park’s strategic location along the highway to Ngorongoro and Serengeti adds to its accessibility and popularity among visitors. Additionally, the park is in close proximity to the culturally rich town of Mto wa Mbu, where one can experience a diverse representation of the 120 tribes of Tanzania.

By Air:

Most safaris in this region, particularly Manyara NP, typically commence from the town of Arusha. The most convenient way to reach Arusha is by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is approximately 46km/29mi away. Alternatively, travelers can opt to fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and then take a domestic flight to either Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). While there are flights available from Arusha and the Serengeti to Manyara’s airstrip, the journey from Arusha by car on the well-paved road only takes around one and a half hours. Most visitors choose to explore the circuit by safari vehicle, especially since the park is en route to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, the other renowned parks of the northern circuit.

The park boasts an abundant variety of wildlife and is renowned for its iconic tree-climbing lions and majestic elephants with impressive tusks. The vast grassy plains attract large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and zebras. For an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures, the hippo pool is an excellent spot. Additionally, the lake serves as a seasonal sanctuary for numerous flocks of flamingos, while the shoreline is home to a diverse range of waterbirds throughout the year.

When it comes to the best time to visit Lake Manyara, wildlife watching opportunities are favorable throughout the year. However, it is considered high season in the park, with the exception of the wetter months of April and May. During this time, prices are at their peak, and the park tends to be crowded, especially in the mornings. Alternatively, the Wet season from November to May sees fewer visitors, making it a more tranquil period to plan your visit.

At Lake Manyara, the climate remains cool as it never reaches extreme temperatures. During the Wet season (November to May), the average daytime temperatures reach a maximum of approximately 29°C/84°F. This period follows a pattern of short rains for a month or two, followed by a dry spell, and then a longer duration of rain. In the Dry season (June to October), the weather is slightly cooler. However, the nights experience a significant drop in temperature. While freezing conditions are uncommon, they can occur occasionally.

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Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

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Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain globally, can truly be marked as the rooftop of Africa. Ernest Hemingway eloquently described it as “As wide as all the world, great, high and unbelievably white.” This majestic site boasts three prominent volcanic centers: Shira in the west, Mawenzi in the east, and the snow-capped Kibo in the middle. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at an impressive 19,340 feet, is a remarkable achievement for adventurous individuals.

Hikers traverse through diverse zones of forest, alpine, and semi-desert before reaching the snow-capped summit. There are various routes to choose from, ranging from 5 to 10 days, all guided by experienced guides and porters. The optimal time to embark on this journey is from mid-December to mid-March, when the sky is clear, the days are mostly sunny, and the mountain offers breathtaking views. Alternatively, the period from mid-July to the end of September is also recommended, with pleasant cloudy days and no rainfall. However, the mountain remains accessible throughout the year.

By road:

123 kilometers, a two-hour journey from the city of Arusha or 48 kilometers, a one-hour drive from Moshi town to Marangu Gate, and 86 kilometers, a one and a half-hour drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

There are numerous activities around Mount Kilimanjaro. Certainly, the most attractive is climbing to the summit, Uhuru Peak, by using one of many routes that are established on the mountain itself. Every year there are thousands of trekking gores attempting to conquer the rooftop of Africa, highest freestanding mountain in the world. However, if you do not feel comfortable to tackle the mountain, there are plenty of other activities you can engage that include visits to the numerous villages at the foothill of Kilimanjaro, learning about the tribal life that happens around the mountain, walking over Shira plateau and take a sneak peak over the mountain top, or simply go west and enjoy more classic African experience in form of a safari on the Western plains overlooked by this mighty mountain.

Mount Kilimanjaro’s temperatures are not significantly influenced by seasonal changes due to its proximity to the equator. Instead, the altitude and time of day play a crucial role in determining the temperature variations on the mountain. As climbers embark on their journey, starting at the base, they can expect an average temperature of approximately 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). 

However, as they ascend through the different ecological zones of Mount Kilimanjaro, the temperatures gradually decrease. Upon reaching the summit, known as Uhuru Peak, climbers encounter night time temperatures that can range from 20 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). The towering height of Mount Kilimanjaro creates its own weather, making it highly unpredictable and subject to rapid changes. Therefore, regardless of the chosen climbing period, climbers must always be prepared for wet days and cold nights.

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Arusha National Park

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Arusha National Park

Arusha serves as the main entry point to the majority of safari destinations in Tanzania. Situated around 30 miles away from Kilimanjaro International Airport, the town is nestled at an elevation of approximately 4100 feet above sea level. Known for its fertile land, Arusha boasts a thriving agricultural sector, producing crops such as coffee, wheat, sisal, and maize. In close proximity to the town lies the remarkable Arusha National Park, which Sir Julian Huxley aptly described as a “gem amongst parks.”

This park encompasses three breathtaking features: the Momela Lakes, Meru Crater, and the Ngurdoto Crater. On clear days, visitors are treated to awe-inspiring views of both Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru from virtually any part of the park. The park’s landscape and wildlife vary according to the diverse topography, ranging from lush forests to expansive swamps. Renowned for its rich avian diversity, the park is home to 400 species of birds, including both migratory and resident species, as well as the striking black and white colobus monkey. Other frequently spotted animals include baboons, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, hippos, leopards, hyenas, and a wide array of antelope species. Due to its close proximity to Arusha, the park is an ideal destination for a day trip.

By road:

Arusha National Park is conveniently located just a short 45-minute drive from the town of Arusha. Interestingly, some of the town’s accommodations are situated along the route leading to the National Park. Given that Arusha serves as the primary starting point for safaris in northern Tanzania, incorporating a visit to this charming park is effortlessly achievable.

By Air:

There are multiple options available for reaching Arusha. The most convenient method is to book a direct flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), which is approximately 46km/29mi away from Arusha. Another option is to fly to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), located near Dar es Salaam, and then take a connecting domestic flight to either Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). An alternative, although not as obvious, is to fly to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), situated just outside Nairobi in Kenya, and then take a shuttle bus to Arusha. In most cases, your tour operator will arrange for your pick-up from the airports in the Arusha area and handle your transportation needs. Depending on your arrival and departure times, you may have the opportunity to include a half-day visit at the beginning or end of your safari in northern Tanzania. If time permits, you can even plan for a full day excursion.

Arusha National Park boasts stunning landscapes and a wide array of animal, bird, and plant species. This remarkable park is characterized by its cascading waterfalls, picturesque lakes, towering cliffs, and deep gorges, as well as its marshes and watering holes, creating an ideal haven for both wildlife and flora. Visitors can immerse themselves in the best of Africa’s natural beauty, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will lead them on exhilarating walking safaris, serene canoe trips on the lakes, or thrilling game drives.

Within Arusha, you will encounter various groups of forest elephants, numerous buffalo herds, graceful water and bushbucks, as well as duikers and dik diks. Among the park’s predator residents are spotted hyenas, leopards, and civets. One of the main highlights is the abundant primate population, particularly the black and white Colobus monkeys and the radiant Sykes monkeys, which are often spotted during game drives or walks in the park.

While lions are absent from this park, leopards do inhabit the area, although they are not frequently sighted. These elusive felines prefer to hunt under the cover of darkness. Arusha National Park offers a more tranquil setting, providing a peaceful environment for visitors, albeit with less emphasis on the exhilaration of observing large game.

Arusha National Park experiences a pleasant and mild climate. The Dry season spans from June to September, while there are two Wet seasons: the ‘long rains’ occurring from March to May, and the ‘short rains’ taking place from October to November. During the rainy season, there are usually afternoon thundershowers, but it is uncommon for it to rain throughout the entire day. Arusha NP encompasses Mount Meru and the surrounding area, which receives slightly more rainfall and clouds.

The average temperatures throughout the year remain consistent. Nights and early mornings tend to be cool to cold, while the daytime temperatures rarely get hot. It is advisable to pack warm clothing for the evenings and for game drives in the early morning.

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Tsavo West National Park

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Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo West National Park is located on the southern border of Kenya with Tanzania, approximately 200km southeast of Nairobi. Together with Tsavo East, this park forms one of the largest game sanctuaries in the world. The Mombasa/Nairobi road separates the East and West parks, making it convenient to visit both on a circuit with Mombasa.

Tsavo West offers a diverse range of landscapes, including swamps, natural springs, rocky peaks, extinct volcanic cones, rolling plains, and striking reddish outcrops. Spotting wildlife can be challenging due to the dense scrubs. In order to streamline administrative purposes, Tsavo National Park was divided into East and West in May 1948, just a month after its establishment. Covering an impressive area of 21,812 square kilometers, Tsavo National Park is the largest park in Kenya.

The park derives its name from the Tsavo River, which flows from west to east. It is renowned as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. What sets Tsavo West apart is its unique allowance for night drives and off-road driving, providing visitors with an up-close experience of the wildlife.

By road:

The primary entry points to the park are via Chyulu Gate, which can be reached from Amboseli, and Mtito Andei Gate, which is accessible from Nairobi. Travelers coming from Mombasa typically enter through Tsavo Gate, located near Manyani. Those coming from Taveta – Voi Road have the option to access the park through Maktau, Ziwani, and Jipe Gates.

By Air:

The subsequent airstrips provide convenient access to Tsavo West National Park: Kamboyo, Kilaguni, Tsavo Gate, Jipe, Kasigau, Finch Hottons, Ziwani and Maktau.

Tsavo West National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife and bird species, with over 600 recorded bird species. Visitors can expect to encounter magnificent creatures such as leopards, cheetahs, buffalos, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, duikers, waterbucks, lions, crocodiles, mongooses, warthogs, hyraxes, dik diks, and porcupines.

One of the park’s highlights is the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, situated at the base of Ngulia Hills. This sanctuary is an integral part of the Rhino Ark Programme, which safeguards Tsavo West’s invaluable population of black rhinos. Additionally, the Shetani flow, an 8km long, 1.6km wide, and 5m deep black lava flow, stands as a testament to past volcanic eruptions.

Within this flow lies a cave, albeit with a narrow exit that remains inaccessible. Lastly, located in the park’s far southwestern corner, Lake Jipe is a captivating attraction nourished by the runoff from Mount Kilimanjaro and the northern Pare mountains. A visit to this enchanting lake is truly a remarkable experience.

Tsavo West National Park is located slightly below the equator. The temperature in the park remains consistent throughout the year, ranging from 27-31°C (81-88°F) during the day and 22-24°C (72-75°F) at night. From December to April, the humidity levels are relatively high. The park experiences two distinct rainy seasons. The long rainy season, also known as the monsoon season, occurs from March to May. The shorter rains fall between October and December.

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Tsavo East National Park

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Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks collectively form the largest national park in Kenya, spanning an impressive area of nearly 22,000 square kilometers. In order to streamline administrative processes, Tsavo National Park was divided into east and west sections in May 1948. The park derives its name from the Tsavo River, which flows from west to east, and is renowned as a global stronghold for biodiversity.

Tsavo East stands out as the sole Kenyan park that allows night drives, offering visitors a unique experience. Although game viewing activities in this expansive park may require some patience, the rewards are truly remarkable. Seasoned safari guides possess extensive knowledge of the wildlife’s movements and migration patterns within Tsavo, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. Mudanda Rock, Yatta Plateau, and Lugard Falls are among the notable attractions found in Tsavo East.

The terrain in this region of Tsavo is predominantly flat, adorned with low, arid vegetation. Due to its proximity to the Kenyan coast, particularly Mombasa, the reserve is a popular choice for short safaris, allowing travelers to combine a mesmerizing East Africa beach vacation with an immersive bush experience.

By road:

The Mtito Andei Gate of the park is located 233 kilometers to the south of Nairobi and 250 kilometers to the north of Mombasa, along the main Nairobi-Mombasa Road. The distance between Nairobi and Mtito Andei is 233 kilometers, while the distance between Mtito Andei and Voi is 96 kilometers. Lastly, the distance between Voi and Mombasa is 153 kilometers. If you are coming from Malindi, you can take the western road (C103) and enter the park through the Sala gate.

By Air:

Tsavo East National Park boasts a number of Airstrips, namely Vio, Aruba, Satao, Sala, Ithumba, Sangayaya, Mopeo, Bachuma, and Cottars.

Tsavo East boasts a predominantly flat landscape, characterized by dry plains that are traversed by the Galana River. The park offers a variety of captivating attractions, including the Yatta Plateau, Lugards Falls, Mudanda Rock, and Aruba Dam. These water features provide a refreshing oasis-like environment, attracting a diverse range of wildlife.

Visitors to Tsavo East can expect to encounter the renowned Big 5 game animals. Additionally, the park is home to sought-after species such as the black rhino, hirola antelope, mongoose, giraffe, bat-eared fox, hyrax, Grevy’s zebra, ground pangolin, Sykes’s monkey, black-faced vervet monkey, and dik dik, among others. The area is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 500 recorded bird species, including ostriches, kestrels, starlings, weaver birds, kingfishers, buzzards, hornbills, secretary birds, and herons.

One intriguing fact about Tsavo lions is their historical lack of manes, even among the males. This unique characteristic has unfortunately made them targets for hunting and resulted in the loss of many lion lives in Tsavo. While Kenya has implemented a ban on hunting for several years now, the proximity of Kenyan villages to the game reserves necessitates careful management of human-wildlife conflicts.

Kenya is situated on the equator, with Tsavo East National Park located a few degrees south in terms of latitude. The temperature remains relatively consistent throughout the year, although the amount of rainfall experienced varies. During the day, the tropical temperature ranges from 27-31°C (81-88°F), while at night it ranges from 22-24°C (72-75°F). The long rainy season in Kenya occurs from March to May, characterized by heavy rainfall, which makes it an unfavorable time for wildlife safaris. On the other hand, the short rainy season takes place from October to December, but the weather during this period is still suitable for safaris, although occasional afternoon showers can be expected. From December to April, the humidity levels are high.

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Diani Beach

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Diani Beach

Diani Beach is a major beach on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya. It is located about 30 kilometres south of Mombasa, in Kwale County. Diani beach boasts a magnificent 25km  stretch whose life blossoms into something the body feels as much as the soul. Her waters stretch out freely, flaunting white sands and smooth oceans waves welcoming the blue sky and sun rays to a celebration of freedom, love and great memories.

Her weather, calm as it is warm, brings with it the conduciveness required for the beach life – Laughter, barefoot dances, wind tousled hair, water sports, name it, Diani offers her pleasures seamlessly for all your desires.

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Nairobi National Park

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Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park, the oldest among Kenya’s national parks, boasts a remarkable Black Rhino Sanctuary. Despite its proximity to the city, this park is a haven for lions, leopards, hyenas, and various other Kenyan wildlife. Its convenient location near Nairobi makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic safari experience without the need for overnight stays elsewhere. Nestled along the Embakasi River, Nairobi National Park is home to thriving buffalo herds and a significant population of ostriches. Moreover, it offers an excellent opportunity to witness the wildebeest migration during the summer months and encounter four of Africa’s renowned “Big Five” animals.

Nairobi National Park, established in 1946, is relatively small compared to other national parks in Kenya. It serves as a testament to Kenya’s natural state from over a century ago when the city of Nairobi was just beginning to take shape. Encompassing an area of 117km² (44 square miles), the park showcases the diverse landscapes of Kenya, including plains, forests, gorges, and lush vegetation along the Embakasi River. Its high-altitude savannah terrain is adorned with acacia trees scattered across the open plains. Situated just outside the capital city of Nairobi, the park shares a boundary with the city’s industrial area.

This proximity to a major urban center poses challenges in terms of protecting wildlife such as lions, leopards, and rhinos, as well as the black rhino conservation program. Conflicts occasionally arise between the local Maasai tribe and the city’s four million residents. Additionally, ongoing development and increasing air pollution from nearby industries present further issues. It is indeed a peculiar sight to witness a giraffe grazing against the backdrop of towering skyscrapers! One of the park’s notable features is its black rhino sanctuary, which offers a unique opportunity to observe these endangered animals in their natural habitat.

While elephants are absent from the park, visitors can still encounter four of the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos). Other commonly spotted wildlife includes giraffes, elands, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and crocodiles along the Embakasi River. With a staff of 120, Nairobi National Park attracts over 100,000 visitors annually who come to witness the captivating African wildlife. When embarking on a safari, it is advisable to carry a notebook, a spotter’s guide, and an ample supply of water.

By road:

10km South of Nairobi City Center.

By Air:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport.

The black rhinoceros, which is currently at risk of extinction, is safeguarded within this area, and the park provides black rhinos to other national parks. Embark on a thrilling game drive to catch a glimpse of the magnificent “Big Five” animals, including lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos, although elephants are not present. Additionally, visitors can indulge in leisurely walks along the scenic trails and make use of the five designated picnic sites. This location is renowned for its diverse bird population, with a recorded count of 400 species. Furthermore, turtle and tortoise enthusiasts can also partake in the joy of observing these fascinating creatures.

The ideal time for tourists to visit Nairobi is between July and March, as the weather is predominantly dry and sunny during this period. From April to June, however, the rainy season sets in, making transportation challenging and hindering wildlife viewing on safaris. Additionally, there might be some rainfall from October to December. To reach Nairobi National Park, one can take the road route via Langata Road, which is a mere 7km away from the city center.

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Taita Hills (Salt Lick) safari

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Taita Hills (Salt Lick) safari

Located at the main entrance to the Sanctuary, Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is an inviting stone building of 60 spacious rooms and two suites, all with their own private viewing balcony. It has a museum that displays some of the World War 1 memorabilia as part of the rich history of Taita Taveta County.

Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is located at the main entrance to the Taita Hills Sanctuary in South Eastern Kenya, 400 km from Nairobi and 200 km from Mombasa. An hour flight from Nairobi or 30 min from Mombasa by private charter lands at the hotel’s own airstrip. The sanctuary is a 3-hour drive from Mombasa and a 6-hour drive from Nairobi on tarmac roads.

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Masai Mara National Reserve

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Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve, also known as Masai Mara or The Mara, is located in the southern part of Kenya within the Great Rift Valley. Covering an area of approximately 1510 square kilometers (938 square miles), this unfenced savannah grassland is situated roughly 150 miles southeast of Nairobi. Its name is derived from the Maasai tribe, the indigenous people of Kenya, and the Mara River that flows through the park.

One of the main attractions of the Masai Mara is the famous wildebeest migration, where thousands of animals cross the Mara River between July and August. It is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo), zebras, antelope, gnus, Oribis, hyenas, giraffes, warthogs, gazelles, hartebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and many others. The park boasts the highest concentration of African lions, including the black-maned lion. Additionally, there is a rich birdlife with over 400 different bird species found in the Masai Mara.

The climate in the park is hot and dry, with two regular rainfall seasons throughout the year. The topography mainly consists of open savannah grassland, with clusters of acacia trees in the southeastern area. The Mara and Talek rivers add to the beauty of the rolling plains in the reserve. During the rainy season, numerous seasonal rivers appear, but they dry out once the rains cease. It is important to note that the Maasai Mara National Reserve is managed by the local county council of Narok district and not the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

By road:

Located approximately 270 km away from Nairobi City, the journey to this destination can be completed in 4-5 hours by road or a mere 40-45 minutes by flight. The majority of the road offers a smooth driving experience, except for a stretch between Narok town and Sekenani Gate, which is a dirt road but still in decent condition. However, the alternative route passing through Lemek and Aitong town is quite rough and not recommended.

By Air:

A trip to Maasai Mara from Nairobi typically lasts around 45 minutes. Numerous airlines offer flights on this route, but the most popular ones for domestic flights to Maasai Mara are Safarilink and Air Kenya. Flights to Maasai Mara are available from various locations, including Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, Samburu, Lamu, Malindi, Nanyuki, Mombasa, and Ukunda. If you are departing from coastal towns, the flight to the national reserve will take approximately 2 hours. In Maasai Mara, there are 8 airstrips available, namely Ngerende, Shikar, Musiara, Kichwa Tembo, Olkiombo, Serena, Siana, and Keekorok. It is possible that you may have a few stops along the way due to other passengers landing at one of the 6 airstrips in the Mara. However, there are also options for direct charters into the Masai Mara.

The Masai Mara Game Reserve is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa. Throughout the year, visitors can partake in exhilarating game drives to explore the park. If you have a keen interest in spotting majestic big cats during your Kenyan safari, the Mara guarantees sightings. This reserve is home to all of the “Big Five” animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. However, the population of black rhinos is critically endangered, with only 37 remaining as of 2000. The park is teeming with herds of plains zebras, Masai giraffes, common giraffes, jackals, white-bearded gnus, Oribis, warthogs, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, hartebeests, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, rare Topi antelope, beautiful rone antelope, as well as hippos and crocodiles in the Mara River.

For the most pleasant weather conditions, it is recommended to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve between December and March, as well as July and October. These months offer ideal conditions for exploration. April through June are also suitable for a visit, although there may be occasional rainfall or cooler temperatures.

The vast Masai Mara reserve is situated at an elevation ranging from 4,875 to 7,052 feet above sea level, resulting in a humid climate and milder temperatures compared to the rest of Kenya. During the day, temperatures reach a maximum of 85°F (30°C), while at night they can drop to around 60°F (15°C). The majority of rainfall occurs between March and May, as well as during the short rainy season in November and December. Navigating the park can be challenging during these periods. From July to October, the weather is dry, the vegetation is abundant, and the daytime temperatures are pleasant, making it the ideal time to observe the park’s wildlife. This period also sees the highest number of tourists visiting the Masai Mara. The hottest temperatures occur in December and January, while June and July are the coolest months in the park.

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