Kenya

The largest African reserve is crossed by the Rufiji River and its tributaries, which form a network of lakes ideal for boat safaris. Wildlife observation and bird watching (350 species) take place in a superb natural setting. Respecting nature’s rhythm, you can be assured of close contact with the wildlife. You can also participate in walking safaris with a ranger and a 4 wheel drive safaris.

Situated in the center of the country, the second largest National Park is bordered by the Ruaha River and offers spectacular viewpoints. From July to December the wildlife is concentrated on the banks of the river and around the watering holes. You will see herds of elephants, giraffes, prides of lions and Great Kudus without moving from the banks. Unique combinations of animals co-exist here – both the greater and lesser kudu, sable and roan antelope – Ruaha being the only protected area in the world where the flora and fauna of eastern and southern Africa overlap. The setting is exceptionally well preserved. The best way to get to Ruaha is by air.

The main feature of this park is the Mikumi flood plain, along with the mountain ranges that border the park on the two sides. Open grasslands dominate in the flood plain, eventually merging with the miombo woodland covering the lower hills. Here you will find lions, wild dogs and many other animals which retreat to the miombo woodlands in wet season. The elephants here are more compact than the rest of their Tanzanian cousins, but still a lot bigger than any Land Rover. The rains swell the park’s bird population to more than 300 species as Eurasian migrants seek refuge in Mikumi, joining resident stars like lilac breasted roller.Other animal species found here are zebra, giraffe, hartebeest, wildebeest, buffalo and more.

Kilimanjaro means Mountain of Light, Mountain of Greatness or Mountain of Caravans. It consists of 3 summits: to the west, the Shira plateau, to the east Mawenzi peak and between the two the snow-capped summit of Kibo which reaches 5,895 meters. There are several ways to reach the top: Marangu route (to the west) is the most popular, Machame (to the west), Umbwe and Mweka (to the south) are more demanding. Those who reach Uhuru point, the actual summit, or Gillman’s Point on the lip of the crater, will have earned their climbing certificates and their memories. The journey up the slope takes you through climatic world tour from the tropic to the artic. The grassy and cultivated lower slopes turn into lush rainforest, inhabited by elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo and antelope. Higher still, heath and moorland, covered with giant heathers, becomes surreal alpine desert and finally, ice, snow and the magnificent beauty of the top of the continent. One should allow a minimum of 4 nights, preferably 5 or even more nights for the climb to increase your acclimatization time and maximize your chances of reaching the summit. Take your time and enjoy the beauty of the mountain.

The historic Stone Town of Zanzibar is a fascinating maze of narrow streets with overhanging balconies and huge intricately carved wooden doors. The place is full of pungent perfume of exotic spices. It was the ancient trading port of the sultans of Oman in the 19th century. This city is a medina: the only of its kind south of the Equator. Zanzibar Island can boast kilometers of golden beaches. Inland the island is garden of Eden offering the most exquisite tropical species. Do not miss the Spice Tour.