Volcanoes National Park's Bald Mountain Gorilla. Discovery Journeys. 6-Day Rwanda Tour
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Volcanoes National Park’s Bald Mountain Gorilla

The Bald Mountain gorilla is the most fascinating individual you will meet in Volcanoes National Park. The park is Rwanda‘s leading safari destination and the best mountain gorilla trekking destination. Volcanoes National Park has over 20 gorilla families with 12 fully habituated and open to tourism. Mountain gorilla families comprise up to 15 individuals or more. Each gorilla family is led by a dominant male gorilla called Silverback.

Among the habituated gorillas families in Rwanda is the Sabyinyo family where the bald mountain gorilla belongs. The family comprises 15 individuals and our beloved bald Mountain gorilla is second in command.

About The Bald Mountain Gorilla

Big Ben is among the prominent male gorillas in the Sabyinyo gorilla family. He was born in 2004 and has steadily grown to dominance in the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park. The 19-year-old despite not being the lead silverback is loved by the other subordinate gorillas in the family. There is a chance for Big Ben to become the lead silverback of this lovely family.

For any male gorilla to become the dominant Silverback it has to defeat the reigning Silverback. Some after being defeated break away from their families to start new lives with a few gorillas that believe in them. Not all Silverbacks get involved in succession battles and it explains why it has been peaceful for the Sabyinyo Family.

We will keep on monitoring the activities of this family and will surely be excited when the Bald Mountain Gorilla finally takes power.

The Significance of Being Bald

It is not every day that you encounter a bald mountain gorilla which is why Big Ben is incredibly outstanding. Among human beings, being bald is not common either but at least there are several bald people you meet. Some may wonder why the comparison of mountain gorillas to humans and the answer is in the DNA. We share over 95% DNA with these rare primates. This is the reason why we have a lot in common including the aspect of being bald.

Baldness is hereditary or can be caused by aging and changes in hormones. Some humans cover this with treatment and you may never notice even when one is bald. The story is quite different from our Primate cousins who do not use such kind of treatment and simply let nature take its course. It is just fascinating to see Big Ben and look into his eyes. Such moments of truth will never leave you the same and are the ones we value on our Discovery Journey adventures.

Volcanoes National Park Discovery Journeys

Volcanoes National Park is our top-seller safari destination in Rwanda. The park is home to not just mountain gorillas but also golden monkeys, birds, and other mammal species. Mountain gorilla trekking is the most commonly done activity followed by golden monkey trekking.

Now that you have heard about the bald mountain gorilla, this is the best time to book your gorilla trekking Discovery Journeys. It does not matter whether you trek with the Sabyinyo family to see the bald mountain gorilla. You will have a great time with any of the gorilla families you visit while in the park. Mountain gorilla families are allocated at the park headquarters and sometimes one’s physical fitness is a determinant. This is because some gorilla families can be got to after longer hours of hiking and not everyone is physically fit for such hikes.

Where to Stay

Volcanoes National Park has several accommodation options where one can stay. These include high end  lodges like Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorillas’ Nest Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and Singita Kwitonda Lodge. Most of them get fully booked during the peak tourist season and it is advisable to book them in advance. 

Best Time to Visit

Volcanoes National Park can be visited any time of the year. For the best experience with the Bald Mountain gorilla and overall trekking we recommend visiting during the dry season. The dry season spans from June to September and from mid December to early March. 

This doubles as the peak tourist season and gorilla permits get fully booked a couple of months in advance. You can still visit the park during the wet months of November and April to May. Rainfall is however more likely to occur during these months. It is always better to have a rain gear even in the dry season. This is because rainfall can be unpredictable given the relief and vegetation.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours

You can book your gorilla tour starting with a one-day gorilla tour adventure. The 1-day Rwanda gorilla tour starts with a pick-up from Kigali at 4:30 am if it is where you prefer to start your tour. From there you are driven to the park by 7:00 am in time for a briefing about the gorilla trekking rules and regulations. After the briefing, you are led to the forested mountains hiking until you meet the mountain gorillas.

The 2-day Rwanda Gorilla Tour is a bit relaxed in case you are not comfortable with the early morning pickup. You can also opt for a 3-day Rwanda gorilla tour that also features golden monkey trekking. There are longer Primate Discovery Journeys like a 4-day Rwanda Tour, a 4-Day Double Gorilla Trekking Tour, and 10-day Rwanda Safaris that also feature chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. Contact us for customized Rwanda Gorilla tours to meet the Bald Mountain gorilla and other adventures. Our other adventures include Kenya Signature experiences and Tanzania Classic safaris.

Kenya Signature Safari Experiences. 7-Day Kenya Tour
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Kenya Signature Safari Experiences

Kenya Signature safari experiences are a Must for the best Kenya Safari adventure. The country is diverse with several attractions and experiences you can be part of. There are particular Kenya Signature safari experiences that are highly recommended and include the following.

Big Cats Safari Experiences

Savanna big cats include lions, leopards, and Cheetahs. These are among the most sought-after wildlife species in all Savanna destinations. Kenya has one of the highest Big Cats concentrations. Masai Mara National Reserve has all three and they can be seen while on game drives.

Lions are commonly seen in the Mara plains in Pride of up to 20 individuals. This high lion population in Masai Mara is boosted by the abundance of prey whose numbers increase more with the wildebeest migration. The cheetah population is not as high as that of lions but you still have a great chance of seeing them.

Leopards on the other hand are solitary in nature. There are particular tracks with thickets where you can see these to fully complete your big cats Kenya Safari. The best time to see the big cats in Masai Mara is from March to August. Kenya has many other destinations where you can see the major big cats. They include Samburu National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and Tsavo National Park among others.

Kenya Flying Safaris

Some of Kenya’s iconic Safari destinations are located in remote areas. They can be accessed by road but takes a couple of hours to connect to them from Nairobi. Even the renowned Masai Mara and Amboseli are over a 4-hour drive from the city. The drive is enjoyable with scenic views of the farmlands and relief features but tiring. Based on this, Kenya Flying safaris are recommended and form part of Kenya Signature Safari experiences.

There are well-developed and maintained airstrips in all Kenya safari destinations. Departures to these are from Wilson Airport in Nairobi and take between 45 minutes to an hour depending on the destination you are going to. Flying safaris enable you to get to the preferred destination early enough to start your adventures.

On flying safaris, you can explore multiple destinations that are several kilometers apart. A number of adventure travelers on Kenya safaris always like to combine Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park. This is difficult in a direct road transfer as the two destinations are about 8 hours drive apart. You somewhat have to cut your journey with a stopover in Lake Naivasha or Nairobi. With the flying safaris, you can however directly fly and easily connect to the two destinations.

Nairobi City Tours and Adventures

Nairobi is East Africa’s busiest city and economic hub. Beyond that, it has quite a number of adventures you can be part of. To start off are the savanna wildlife experiences in Nairobi National Park. The park is within the city’s proximity and is home to various wildlife species including 4 of the big five mammals. Nairobi National Park is among the best places to see white rhinos. Giraffes, wildebeests, zebras, and various birds are other wildlife species you can see on game drives here.

The Giraffe Center is another incredible destination you can visit in Nairobi. Here you get up close and personal with the giraffes at the center getting to know more about them. Near the Giraffe Center is the Giraffe Manor a historical and iconic boutique hotel in Kenya. A stay here gives more chances to interact with the resident Rothschild giraffes.

Other places you can enjoy visiting in Nairobi include the Karen Blixen Museum, craft shops, and local markets.

Birding with Flamingos in Amboseli

Kenya birding safaris are rewarding as you get to see the various bird species the country has. The country is still the best place for flamingos that were previously easily seen in Lake Nakuru. Because of rising water levels, the population of flamingos migrated to Lake Bogoria. Lake Bogoria is among the Rift Valley lakes about an hour’s drive from Lake Nakuru.

Apart from Lake Bogoria, Amboseli National Park is now another great destination to see flamingos. It only makes sense to go for birding journeys with flamingos in Amboseli because of the park’s other attractions. Wildebeests, elephants, lions, and zebras are among the notable safari animals you will see here in addition to the vibrant bird life.

Lake Nakuru still has flamingos as well as other bird species including great white pelicans and fish eagles among others. You can combine a birding and savanna wildlife safari featuring Nakuru, Bogori, and Amboseli National Park.

Paddling with the Dolphins

Kenya’s marine wildlife is still not yet fully explored as many adventure travelers are distracted by the open savanna parks. The country has a number of Marine National Parks along the coast with remarkable Marine wildlife. Kisite Mpuguti and Watamu are the two major marine parks on the Kenyan coast. They are home to dolphins, sea turtles, whales, and various corals.

The Kenyan coast gives you a different Kenya Signature Safari experience. Here you can be part of various Marine activities that include kayaking, and snorkeling while seeing the various marine wildlife.

All these Kenya Signature Safari experiences can be enjoyed any time of the year. In case you want Discovery Journeys to other destinations in East Africa you are welcome to do so. Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is among the upcoming exclusive destinations that you can look at in Uganda. There are various Tanzania safari adventures you can explore in the northern and southern parts of the country.

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. Courtesy Photo
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Wildlife Tours To Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is among the less explored Uganda safari destinations. The reserve is often described by nature enthusiasts as Uganda’s best-kept secret. It is located in eastern Uganda about a 7-hour drive from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is among the iconic destinations that form the Eastern and Northern Uganda Tourism Circuit. This tourism circuit and wildlife Discovery Journey has more open savannas and it is most remarkable because of the impressive scenic views and big cats.

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve covers a land of 2,275 square kilometers and is Uganda’s second-largest protected area. The reserve once upgraded into a National Park will be Uganda’s largest.

Wildlife in Pain Upe Wildlife Reserve

Pian Upe has by far some of the most impressive landscapes and ecosystems in Uganda. The vegetation there mainly comprises open and wooded savannas found in no other protected area in Uganda. This acts as a habitat for various animal species including the roan antelope that can only be found there.

There are many other wildlife species here that make the reserve a must-visit for adventure lovers. Giraffes, the Uganda Kob, hartebeests, oribi, elands, and topi are among the species you will find here. The two major big cats present here are Cheetahs and leopards although leopards are rarely seen given their solitary nature.

The reserve is a great birding destination offering high chances of spotting the fox weaver that is endemic to Uganda. Other notable birds here include the Ostrich, Abyssinian ground hornbills, secretary bird, and African Hill Babbler among others.

Activities

Guided Nature walks are the main safari activities you can engage in while in Pian Upe. A walk here brings you closer to nature and on it, you even spot smaller wildlife species including insects that you could easily miss out on while on game drives.

The reserve is being restocked with wildlife species with giraffes being the most successful translocations. These and many more once roamed the reserve but had gone extinct because of poaching and habitat loss. A number of game drive tracks are being constructed as well and with time Pain Upe Wildlife Reserve will be Uganda’s finest savanna wildlife destination.

Hiking is another adventurous activity you can engage in while on Journeys of Discovery to Pian Upe. This can be to either Mount Kadam or Napak. On these hikes, you will naturally spot a number of wildlife species including birds. The scenic views are however very impressive and the reserve’s selling point.

Birding Discovery Journeys are a Must and you will graced with a number of endemics as well as migratory birds depending on the time of your visit.

Best time to Visit

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve can best be explored during the dry season. The reveres major safari activities are best enjoyed with minimal rainfall disturbances. The dry season spans from December to Early March and from September to December. June to August receives a lot of rainfall and the major road through the reserve gets muddy and almost impassable.

We have curated some safari packages to feature Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. Our 8-day Eastern Uganda safari is a sample but can further be customized depending on your interest and convenience.

We have a number of other safari adventures throughout East Africa including Day trips. The Giraffe Center in Kenya is one of the places you can visit in a day and get to learn more about the land’s tallest mammals. You can also Visit Tanzania for Safari adventures in the different safari destinations including the Ngorongoro Crater.

Tanzania Safari Adventures. Discovery Journeys
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The Wonders of Tanzania Safari Adventures

Tanzania safari adventures top the list of the most desired Journeys of Discovery. This vast East African country has a variety of safari encounters suiting the needs and desires of all kinds of travelers. Whether traveling in a group of friends, or traveling solo, Tanzania safari adventures will always leave you wanting more.

It is hard to zero down on particular destinations on planning a Tanzania safari. There are however some iconic wildlife and cultural wonders that you can not miss. Let us look at some of them as well as the possible itinerary options available for such designation.

Ngorongoro Crater

This Crater is the world’s largest unfilled volcanic crater. It is located in northern Tanzania and forms a great network of the northern Tanzania tourism circuit. The Ngorongoro Crater is not just Tanzania but one of the wildlife wonders on the planet. It alone is an iconic feature that will leave you speechless. The crater forms its own skyline and is covered by a thin layer of clouds when seen from its rim.

As you drive the crater floor, you are more amazed by the other relief features there. The most outstanding ones include Lake Magadi, a Riverine swamp and forest plus a Highland. All these are habitats for the various wildlife species you see while on game drives on the crater floor.

The Big Five mammals are all present in the Ngorongoro Crater. Elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and lions are commonly seen. The leopard being solitary in nature is rare but also present and if lucky you can spot it as well. Wildebeests, zebras, Hippos, and hyenas are also abundant. Cheetahs, which are the world’s fastest animals are also much present here. It is amazing to find savannas’ most desired wildlife species in one enclosure and the ease with which you spot them. Ensure to add wildlife journeys in Ngorongoro to your list of Tanzania safari adventures.

Migration Journeys of Serengeti

Having a Discovery Journeys safari featuring the big cats and Big Five mammals is amazing but having that following one of the world’s largest animal migrations is remarkable. The great wildebeest migration takes place between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Animals move in millions looking for pasture a journey that is filled with life, death, and survival.

The migration cycle starts with the calving period from November through December, January and February. Wildebeests are usually evenly spread in the Ndutu area and parts of southern Serengeti. This calving period sees the birth of over 5000 calves a day with the month of February having the highest births. Calving rejuvenates the herds but also attracts deadly predators that take advantage of the newlyborns.

March, April, and May are wet months and the rainfall favors the growth of vegetation that the migrating herds feed on. They slowly keep on drifting towards central and western Serengeti until they begin the River Crossings. These River Crossings are the most spectacular of all as the herds overcome yet other deadly predators the Nile Crocodiles. You can only understand the magnitude of this migration while on Tanzania safari adventures in Serengeti. Our 8-day Serengeti safari covers the whole migration and is the best itinerary for this wildlife journey.

White Sand Beach Adventures

Tanzania has the second longest coastline in East Africa covering 1,424 kilometers bordering the Indian Ocean. With this comes the advantage of sea adventures as well as white sand Beach relaxation opportunities. Tanzania has some of the finest white sand beaches on the continent. There are well-developed and exclusive resorts that work perfectly for honeymooners and those interested in relaxing.

While at the beach you get to have marine wildlife experiences. These feature marine wildlife especially sea turtles that lay their eggs along the beach. After hatching, the young sea turtles are preyed on by scavenger birds and a few lucky ones make it to the ocean. While at the beach you might get lucky to rescue one turtle to the ocean for its new life and adventure.

You can also take on canoe rides to the ocean or engage in other activities like snorkeling. Whether you decide to just relax at the beach or have a wildlife safari ending with a beach holiday you can never go wrong. Such kinds of Tanzania safari adventures and beach holidays set you in the right mood. They are the kind of getaways everyone needs.

Less Traveled Paths of Selous

Southern Tanzania is exclusive and exceptional even though not as famous as Northern Tanzania. A lot of the south is still remote and virgin which makes Discovery Journeys there even more cooler. The Selous, currently known as Nyerere National Park is Tanzania and East Africa’s largest National park. It is most famous for its exclusive wildlife encounters and in large numbers.

The African wild dog, elephants, lions, buffaloes, elands, giraffes, and Hippos are some of the notable safari animals you will see while on safari here. There is a big portion of the park that was specifically preserved for wildlife photography. You thereby get the best photography safari moments here exclusively without any disturbances.

You can engage in a number of activities there including game drives, nature walks, balloon safaris, and boat cruises. Other famous destinations in southern Tanzania include Mikumi and Ruaha National Parks. They are also vast in size and offer great opportunities for Tanzania safari adventures that anyone would wish for. The best time frame you can explore the wild south is 10 days and our 10-day Southern Tanzania Safari got you covered.

Cultural Tanzania Safari Adventures

Tanzania is not just famous for wildlife but culture as well. There are over 100 tribes in Tanzania each with a unique culture and heritage. You can therefore decide to take on a cultural safari to Tanzania just to learn about the people. The Hadzabe are among the few people in Tanzania who still hold on to their African Traditions. They are hunter-gatherers who entirely depend on the wilderness for survival. Visiting this lovely community takes you back in time and makes you appreciate humanity.

The Masai are widely spread throughout Northern Tanzania and it is never a dull moment with them. Masai are the guardians of Serengeti and the major ecosystems in the North. The Sukuma and Datooga people are also unique and a cultural tour of their community is amazing.

Tanzania Safari adventures are all around and can give a test in life. We have traversed all these lands on our Discovery Journeys expeditions are we are always ready to take you around.

Solo Travel Safari Getaway
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Best Solo Travel Safari Getaways In East Africa

Solo travel safari expeditions have gained popularity over the years. Not having travel companions and the love of customizing safari itineraries are among the reasons some people choose to travel solo. Some East African destinations were feared by solo travelers in the past because of safety but that has changed over time. The number of tourists to the various destinations has steadily increased and you are assured of finding some people at every destination you visit.

It no longer matters whether you travel solo as some safari activities are even done in groups of a set number. The biggest advantage of traveling solo is the control you have over your tour schedule. This leaves you with room to decide whether you can add or remove any activities from your itinerary.

Let us briefly look at some of the Top Solo traveler safari experiences you can enjoy while in East Africa.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda

Mountain gorillas are currently the most sought-after primate species. They are endangered primates that only live in the forested mountains in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Many adventure travelers love to Visit East Africa on gorilla safari expeditions to see the mountain gorillas. Many however wonder whether traveling solo is ideal for such an adventure and the answer is yes.

There are habituated gorilla families in Uganda and Rwanda and each of these families can only be tracked by 8 tourists a day. The gorilla trekking permits are in high demand and they do get fully booked in advance. Traveling solo just gives you the right opportunity and chance of getting a permit even in the busiest tourist season which would be a different case for people who are traveling in a group.

Even if you are the only one booked for the gorilla trek that day, you are guided by well-knowledgeable and armed rangers. The rangers carry firearms to scare away other wild animals in the forested parks since there are various wildlife species there. Trekking to the gorillas alone or in a group of 8 or less is very remarkable. You get to learn more about the gorilla ecosystem and about their ways of life. In Rwanda, you can enjoy solo travel gorilla safari experiences in Volcanoes National Park. In Uganda, you can choose to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla Parks.

Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Serengeti

Serengeti National Park is a stop-center safari destination and the great wildebeest migration is the leading attraction. Wildebeests of up to a million along with zebras and gazelles move over Serengeti to Masai Mara for pasture. This is one of the biggest mass animal movements that is amazing to watch.

It is often rare to find animals in large numbers in one place but that is the order of the day in Serengeti. This wildebeest migration does not only attract adventure enthusiasts but also predators. The leading predators and carnivores of the land take advantage of these numbers to hunt down their prey. On the wildebeest migration safaris and game drives you therefore get fully immersed in nature and the wildlife numbers. This makes you forget about your solo travel worries as you focus on the moments around you.

There are also many travelers who turn up these. You encounter over 50 privately guided safaris of both family and solo traveler expeditions. Just like the migrating herds, you can never walk alone on a wildebeest migration safari.

Amboseli National Park Safari Journeys.

Amboseli National Park is one iconic safari destination in Kenya. It is renowned for its giants and the beautiful background of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is not as populous as Masai Mara and this makes it a great destination to explore even when traveling solo.

While on game drives in Amboseli, you are assured of seeing Elephants in large herds. There are many other safari animals here including four of the big five mammals. It is only rhinos that are not in this national park. The views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background make game drives here even more impressive and enjoyable.

Enjoy your solo travel adventures journeying with the giants in Amboseli being graced by the Mount Kilimanjaro view.

Uganda birding safari Journeys

Birding safaris require attention and time and are the best to execute while on solo travels. The East African region is blessed with various bird species including endemics that only occur here. Uganda is one of the best places to take on a birding safari. All the birding destinations in Uganda are safe and very fine to explore even on solo travel expeditions.

The Mabamba wetland tops that list and there you can see the shoebill stork, egrets, Kingfishers, and grey-crowned cranes among others. Other destinations especially national parks are frequented by tourists you can always get the company you could miss. The Nile Delta, Mubwindi Swamp, Kibale National Park, and Lake Mburo are highly recommended for birding.

The list of adventures you can partake in as a solo traveler is endless. Just book your next safari for the ultimate Discovery Journeys and encounters.

Giraffe Center. Discovery Journeys
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The Giraffe Center Experience

The Giraffe Center is one of the leading Wildlife Conservation Centers in East Africa. It was founded in 1979 as the Africa Fund for Endangered Wildlife by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville. Its main focus of establishment was to safeguard the Rothchild Giraffe which was critically endangered on the verge of extinction.

At the time only 130 Rothchild Giraffes were left with their habitat drastically reducing as well. Jock and Betty got two young giraffes that they brought to their home and eventually started a program of breeding giraffes that would be reintroduced back to their habitats.

Through the Africa Fund for Endangered Wildlife Jock and Betty fundraised to help with the breeding and translocation of some giraffe herds. The fund had also been registered in the United States and in 1983 it raised funds to build an Educational Center. This was to foster conservation of giraffes and other wildlife species through educational programs. The Giraffe Center has been open since then and it is among the wildlife conservation successes in the region.

What to do at the Giraffe Center

The Giraffe Center is the only place in Kenya where you get up close to the land’s tallest animal species. The center is well-mapped and you can therefore easily find your way around. There are also a number of educators who can help in case you want more information about the giraffes.

It is always better to start at the information center. Here you will learn about the history and conservation journey of the Giraffe Center. The feeding and personal encounter with the giraffes is what everyone is always looking out for. Giraffes being tall, have quite a presence about them. With the help of the Educator, you are given some food pellets comprising corn and grass and stand at the feeding platform where the giraffes majestically reach and feed from your hands.

Getting this close to these beautiful supermodels and humbling and memorable. Even better, they can give you a lovely kiss bringing you into direct contact with the wild side of nature.

You can also enjoy a nature walk at the Giraffe Center. Being a wildlife sanctuary, the Giraffe Center has some wildlife species including birds that can be spotted on this nature walk. The walk is very refreshing and you can spot over 60 bird species but smaller animal species including squirrels.

Rates

The Rates at the Giraffe Center are very affordable. International guests pay about $10 whereas East African Citizens and Residents have discounted rates of about $3. Children also have a very fair discounted rate and school groups are granted free access if they book at least a week in advance.

The Giraffe Manor

The Giraffe Manor is one of the most iconic boutique hotels in Kenya. It is a historical property that resonates with the Giraffe Center in terms of Rothchild Giraffes’ conservation. The manor sits on a 12-acre private land on the 140 Wildlife Sanctuary and provides one with more chances to interact with the giraffes.

There is a resident herd of Rothschild Giraffes that visit in the morning and evening. These giraffes poke their long necks through the large Windows of the Manor expecting a treat. Here you get up close and personal with the Giraffes also getting to know more about their social lives. In case you want to stay at the Giraffe Manor it is recommended to book in advance as the property is highly demanded.

Overall Kenya safari adventures are doable throughout the year. The Giraffe Center is also open year-round and can be visited at any time. Kenya has a number of leading safari destinations including Masai Mara and Amboseli. Such destinations and unique cultural and historical experiences are some of the reasons why you must Visit Kenya. Kenya and the center can also explored on solo travel adventures.

Leading Uganda Photography Safari Destinations
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Leading Uganda Photography Safari Destinations

There are several Uganda photography safari destinations you can think of when planning a photography safari. Photography safaris are now among the top adventures travelers take on to get content or for documentaries. Many aspects qualify a destination to be suitable for the best photography safaris and the wildlife attractions are the primary factors. Below are the top five leading Uganda Photography safari destinations we recommend when on Uganda Journeys of Discovery.

Mabamba Swamp

Mabamba swamp is situated on Lake Victoria. It is among the most prominent wetlands and Ramsar Sites in Uganda. The swamps’ location on Lake Victoria alone makes it outstanding. Lake Victoria is Africa’s Largest Lake and the second world’s largest freshwater lake. Uganda photography safari excursions on Lake Victoria are rewarding as encounter several bird species including the prehistoric shoebill stork.

The Mabamba wetlands have over 300 recorded bird species but the shoebill stands out. This rare bird lives in wetland areas and mainly thrives on the abundance of its prey, especially the mad fish. On a birding excursion to Mabamba, you are guaranteed to see the shoebill for the best photography moments.

The waterways throughout the swamp vegetation that you ride through in search of the shoebill make Mabamba excursions more enjoyable. Transportation here is primarily by local motorized canoe boats which is also an adventure itself. Other Bird species you can see on a birding and Uganda photography safari to Mabamba include the grey crowned cranes and fish eagles among others.

Semuliki Valley National Park

Semuliki Valley National Park is located just below the Rwenzori mountain ranges in Bundibugyo District in western Uganda. This remote protected area has an extension of the Ituri forest and has diverse wildlife species mainly associated with Central Africa. The park lies in the Albertine Rift Valley and has cool temperatures throughout the year.

Some of the leading attractions here include the Semuliki River, Hot springs, and over 120 mammals including chimpanzees. The park is a top birding destination with over 350 bird species 23 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley.

It can best be explored on foot on guided nature walks to the hot springs and the forest for chimpanzee trekking. The exclusivity of this National Park is the best thing one needs for uninterrupted photography sessions. Each excursion here also opens up more chances for new wildlife sightings and Discoveries that are ideal for photography.

Mgahinga Gorilla Park

Mgahinga is one of the best primate trekking National Parks in Uganda. It is located in southwestern Uganda and it is part of the Virunga massif and conservation area along with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and DRC’s Virunga National Park. Mgahinga Gorilla Park is home to the rare mountain gorillas and has one habituated gorilla family called Nyakagezi.

Gorilla trekking safari adventures here unlike other destinations in very exclusive. It is only 8 people allowed to track a gorilla family per day meaning 8 or fewer people are the ones who trek here depending on how busy the day is. Golden monkeys are other rare primate species you find in Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Golden monkeys are endemic to the Virunga massif meaning Mgahinga is one of the few destinations you can see them. It is in fact the only destination in Uganda with golden monkeys.

Uganda photography safari adventures to Mgahinga are remarkable. You not only have a variety to capture but do so exclusively up close and personal with nature.

Murchison Falls & Nile Delta

Murchison Falls National Park is currently Uganda’s largest National Park. The park is bisected by the Great Nile River on its way up north and it is among the primary attractions in the Park. The Nile at Murchison is in its early stages. It plunges down a narrow gorge of about 7 meters wide forming one of the world’s strongest waterfalls. Murchison Falls is a spectacular attraction and has a permanent rainbow on a sunny day. Observing these falls from the top and the bottom leaves in wonder and true appreciation of Mother Nature.

One of the best Uganda photography safari sessions is enjoyed on these falls. A boat cruise to the bottom rewards you with sightings of some mammal species in the park including hippos, elephants, and giraffes. Nile crocodiles, baboons, and various bird species are also seen while on a boat cruise here. The Top of the falls is another great angle to capture the falls and gives you a panoramic view of the Nile River through the gorge downstream.

The Nile in Murchison continues and enters Lake Albert one of the Great Rift Valley Lakes. At this point, the Nile forms a Delta which is another outstanding attraction. The Nile Delta is home to various wildlife species, especially birds and hippos. This Delta can best be accessed by boat and it is an ideal birding destination. Uganda photography safari adventures up and downstream the River Nile to the falls and Nile Delta are highly recommended for nature lovers.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the most surreal safari destinations in Uganda. It is most isolated in the Northeastern Part but most outstanding in terms of impressive scenic views. Kidepo’s secret is mainly in the landscapes, exclusiveness, and the culture of the local Karamjong community near the park. These three aspects may sound usual but they are not as a visit to the park leaves you wanting more. Beyond that, the park has various wildlife species including four of the big five mammals.

Elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards are all present in the park. Zebras, cheetahs, giraffes, waterbucks, hartebeests, and birds are other wildlife species that occur here. These are mainly seen while on game drives or guided nature walks on Discovery Journeys in the park.

Whether on nature or cultural photography expeditions, Kidepo photography safaris are worth the journeys. Kidepo also qualifies among the list of National Parks with adventurous treks and journeys beyond. We have curated safari itineraries to Kidepo including a 4-day Kidepo National Park Tour. The 8-day Eastern Uganda Safari combines a safari to Kidepo and Pian Upe Reserve via the Sip Falls. Contact us for full details or in case you want to customize these itineraries further.

National Parks for Adventurous Treks in East Africa
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

5 National Parks for Adventurous Treks In East Africa

East Africa is diverse with a number of life-changing adventurous treks. There are quite a number of Discovery Journeys you can be part of while here but for the love of adventure, you must ensure to visit these 5 national parks for the ultimate adventure trekking experiences.

Volcanoes National Park

This is located in the Northwestern part of Rwanda and among the most prominent National Parks in East Africa. The park is a renowned mountain gorilla trekking destination with 12 habituated gorilla families. Mountain gorillas are the most endangered primate species and Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places you can see them.

Adventurous treks to the gorillas start with a briefing at the park headquarters. The activity strictly starts in the morning and you are therefore expected to be at the park by 7:00 am. During the briefing, you are told about the gorilla trekking guidelines and then guided to the forested mountains. This trek to the gorillas takes 1 to 4 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas. Once you get to them, you stay in their presence for an hour getting to know more about them.

A mountain gorilla encounter in Volcanoes National Park is very remarkable and a must do trekking adventure. For this adventure, you can book a 1 day or more depending on your schedule. It is however important to book in advance as mountain gorillas are in high demand. Rwanda is also scheduled to host a series of events including the possibility of the Grammy Awards in 2025. Such events attract many people from different walks of life who end up on adventurous treks gorilla trekking topping the list.

Mount Rwenzori National Park

Mount Rwenzori National Park is one of the least explored destinations in Uganda and East Africa in general. The park primarily comprises Mount Rwenzori and it is located in the western part of Uganda. Mount Rwenzori is an iconic mountain range that stretches along the Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo border. The major peaks are snow-capped and Margherita, the mountain range’s highest peak stands at 5,109 meters above sea level. It is the highest point in Uganda and the third in Africa after Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro.

Trekking the Rwenzori Ranges is truly remarkable and enables you to explore the mountainside and the various wildlife species there. This adventurous trek starts on the foothills of the mountain which are covered with a montane forest. From here you hike through the vegetation zones that change with altitude. Each vegetation zone favors particular wildlife that you will see on the hike.

Glaciated lakes are spectacular and quite a site to see on this mountain hike. As you draw to the summit you start a layer of snow that you trek through till you reach the summit. Reaching the peak of the snow-capped Rwenzori ranges is everyone’s dream and it is indeed worth the journey. Rwenzori Hiking takes 5 to 7 days depending on one’s physical fitness and interest. This hike is among the top adventurous treks in Uganda and a Must for avid mountain climbers. Our 11 Days Rwenzori Hiking safari covers this Trek and other destinations in Uganda.

Gombe National Park

Gombe National Park is a chimpanzee trekking destination in Tanzania. The park is relatively smaller covering a land area of about 35 square kilometers. Gombe National Park is mountainous with steep valleys and varying vegetation types. It is famously known for chimpanzees and it is here that Dr. Jane Goodall started her research about chimpanzees.

The park is remote and best be accessed by boat. This exclusive location alone makes Gombe the ultimate chimpanzee trekking destination. Beyond chimpanzees, there are many other primate species here including red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys, and over 200 bird species. You can therefore be part of various adventurous treks while visiting Gombe.

Such less-traveled destinations are our ideal Discovery Journeys destinations and we highly recommend them for exclusive safari experiences.

Kahuzi Biega National Park

Kahuzi Biega National Park is located in Eastern DRC in the southern Kivu province. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the remaining Eastern Lowland Gorilla population in the wild. Eastern lowland gorillas are endangered and their population could reduce further if the primate species are not well protected. The Democratic Republic of Congo has been having civil wars since the 1980s and these have resulted in the loss of humans and wildlife plus the destruction of property.

There are many cases of poaching and wildlife trafficking. All these have hindered a lot of tourism activities from taking place to destinations like Kahuzi Biega. Despite that political and civil confusion, Kahuzi Biega National Park remains a must-visit adventure trekking destination.

Trekking to the lowland gorillas in the forested mountains is unmatched. Even better, these gorilla species are the largest of all and you therefore get to meet the real giants of the primate world. This national park is also among our top seller Less traveled Discovery Journeys destinations. while here you can opt for the normal gorilla trek or the lowland gorilla habituation trek.

Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya is an extinct Volcano and Africa’s second-highest peak. Its highest elevation stands at 5,199 meters above sea level but is believed to have been 6,500 meters when it was active a million years ago. Mount Kenya is among the few snow-capped mountains in East Africa with several impressive glaciated features. The glaciers are however receding rapidly due to climate change and a global rise in temperatures.

Hiking Mount Kenya is among the most adventurous treks you can ever take. It has impressive landscapes including lakes and U-shaped valleys. The Mount Kenya hike starts from the mountain foothills which have a rich biodiversity. This ranges from the semi-arid ecosystem slowly transcending to the Afro-montane vegetation which also changes the more you hike. Mount Kenya hike lasts a couple of days depending on the hikers’ fitness.

Magical Kenya has several adventures you can partake but this Mountain Hike is a Must.

Rwanda To Host The Grammy Awards
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

Rwanda, A Potential Host of Grammy Awards

Grammy Awards are the most prestigious Music award ceremony on the planet. They are a celebration of music excellence and the music community’s highest honor awards. The inaugural Grammy Awards ceremony was first held in 1958 in the United States of America.

66 years down the road, the awarding ceremony has evolved greatly to include a celebration of music categories of other cultures. The African Music performance, best Alternative Jazz Album, and Best Pop Dance Recording are some of the new categories that have been added to the Grammys. These will be considered starting in 2024 and the Grammy nominations are to be announced this Friday, November 10th.

The addition of the African Music performance is a great milestone for African Culture and Music evolution. This incredible news has been warmly welcomed in addition to the possibility of some African countries becoming regional hubs for the Grammy Recording Academy.

Kigali, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Lagos, and Abidjan are the top African cities believed to become regional hubs. It is rumored that Rwanda will host the first-ever Grammy Awards on the African continent in 2025. We can only wait and hope for the best and success of this prestigious awarding ceremony.

Key Facts About Rwanda

Africa's Cleanest City

Kigali, Rwanda’s capital is Africa’s cleanest city. You cannot spot dirt and litter when driving through Kigali. The city is very green and organized making walking expeditions very safe and easy. Rwandan motorists are very organized and have great respect for pedestrians. Kigali is among the few cities on the planet with well-preserved eco parks where you can take a stroll and relax. All these factors combined make Kigali an amazing host of not just the Grammys but any other prestigious events.

Home to The Rare Mountain Gorillas

Rwanda is one of the few countries with mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas are rare apes that live in the forested mountains in East and Central Africa. They are only found in three countries on the entire planet which are Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Volcanoes National Park is located just a 3 hours drive from Kigali in the northwestern province. The park can also be accessed by flight in just 35 minutes. There are 20 habituated gorilla families in the park but only 12 are so far opened to tourism. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very rewarding as get to meet some of the man’s closest relatives. You can also join lowland gorilla trekking adventures in Kahuzi Biega National Park in Eastern DRC.

Home to 5 World Heritage Sites

Rwanda has a number of iconic and outstanding destinations that are listed are world heritage sites by UNECSO. Topping the list is Nyungwe National Park which is located in the southwestern part of the country. Nyungwe is a forested national park protecting one of East Africa’s oldest tropical rainforests. The park is home to chimpanzees and 12 other primates. It is also home to various bird species and Rwanda’s most Important Birding Area. It is not surprising that this incredible safari destination was inscribed as a World Heritage Site.

Other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Rwanda include the Gisozi, Nyamata, Bisesero, and Murambi genocide memorials of the Rwandan genocide.

Rwanda is our top-seller Discovery Journeys destination. We have various safari features for all the destinations in the country and are always ready to customize your experiences depending on your preference. Visit Rwanda the future host of the Grammy Awards with us for never-ending adventures. other leading destinations you can opt to visit include Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Magical Kenya Expo 2023. Courtesy Photo
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2023

The Magical Kenya Travel Expo is underway and scheduled to take place from the 20th to the 22nd of November. It is East Africa’s leading travel market and this time around it has been combined with the East Africa Regional Tourism Expo. The East Africa Regional Tourism Expo is an annual fair whose aim is to showcase the region’s rich and diverse potential. It was first held in Arusha Tanzania in 2021 in its first-ever edition. The second of the East Africa Regional Tourism Expo was held in Bujumbura the capital city of Burundi. This year is going to be the third edition of the regional expo in Kenya.

The Magical Kenya travel expo on the other hand has so far been held for 13 years. In this year’s edition, over 160 hosted buyers from Kenya’s key source markets are expected to attend. These will be taken on familiarization trips to the different leading destinations in Kenya before the expo. This is aimed at exposing the buyers to various tourism products Kenya has.

It is after the trips that the buyers will now fully engage exhibitors and other stakeholders at the Magical Kenya travel expo. Over 250 exhibitors and 700 visitors are expected to be at the event. This colorful event will be held at the Kenyatta International Convention Center in Nairobi. The theme of the expo is Tourism for Green Growth.

How to Attend the Magical Kenya Travel Expo

You can attend the Magical Kenya Travel Expo as a buyer, exhibitor, media, or Trade visitor. Exhibitor and Hosted Buyer registration is currently closed as it is only 10 days left until the expo. You can however apply to be a trade visitor at a fee of $30 for a 3-day pass, $15 for a 2-day pass, and $10 for a day pass.

There is also an opportunity to apply to attend as a media representative. Once approved you can get a chance to join the media familiarization trips to learn more about destination Kenya.

Leading Kenya safari Destinations

Kenya is a renowned safari destination most famous for the great wildebeest migration in Masai Mara. Beyond the wildebeest migration, Masai Mara is home to the big five mammals. All the big cats and various bird species are also present here making it a prime Kenya safari destination. Game drives, nature walks, and balloon safaris are some of the activities done in Masai Mara.

Amboseli National Park is another prominent Kenya safari destination. The park is located about a 5-hour drive from Nairobi Kenya’s capital city. It is most famous for elephants which are the land’s largest mammals. Lions, wildebeest, zebras, and various bird species are also present in Amboseli. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain can best be seen from Amboseli National Park.

The snow-capped view of this mountain in the background of the open plains of Amboseli is a sight to see. It makes safaris to Amboseli even more remarkable.

Other notable destinations in Kenya include Tsavo, Hell’s Gate, and Kisite Mpuguti National Parks. Samburu National Reserve is also very iconic with some of the rare wildlife species. We have curated a number of Kenya safaris to these destinations and they can be further customized. Contact us for Full details. You can also combine a Kenya safari with other adventures in the region including gorilla trekking. The 11 Days Kenya Tanzania safari is the best example of a combined safari you can look at. You can also visit Uganda for the big five experiences including rhino tracking at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.