CO P E SAFA R I D E SI GN E D BY JA M ES RO BE RT S O N
K E N YA 2 2 nd D e c e mbe r 2 0 1 8 - 1 s t Ja nu a ry 2 0 1 9
I T I N E R A R Y
O V E R V I E W
H O G H O U S E - K & D P R I VA T E L U X U R Y C A M P - L O B O L O - TA S S I A - K & D P R I VA T E L U X U R Y C A M P - H O G H O U S E NAIROBI - MASAI MARA - LAKE TURKANA - THE ARID NORTH - AMBOSELI - NAIROBI
22nd December 2018: NAIROBI
On arrival into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi you will be met and transferred to our home, Hog House, located within the reknowned Giraffe Sanctuary in the quiet suburb of Langata. You will be here for one night.
23rd - 25th December 2018: MAASAI MARA
After breakfast we will �ly you, by private charter west across the Great Rift Valley and into perhaps the best known wildlife area in the World for Big Game - the Maasai Mara. You will be staying in your own private camp set up in the Mara Conservancy for three nights.
26th & 27th December 2018: LAKE TURKANA
Kenya’s most experienced helicopter pilot, Phil Mathews, will �ly into camp and collect you for what has to be one of the most exhilarating �lights you can ever take! You’ll �ly the length of the Rift Valley all the way to Lake Turkana, the Jade Sea, which stretches up to the Ethiopian border. You’ll stop along the way many times on either volcanic calderas, vast sand dunes, rocky pinnacles, lurid springs, �lamingo fringed alkaline lakes eventually reaching Lobolo Camp on the Western shores. We have planned a night �ly camping on the drammatic Central Island, which will be super exciting. You’ll be able to explore by chopper this extraordinarily raw and beautiful part of Kenya, also home to some of the oldest and best preserved fossils of Early Man. Your base will be Lobolo Camp where you will spend time with the Turkana tribe.
28th & 29th December 2018: THE ARID NORTH
After your time on Lake Turkana, Phil will �ly you southeast across the Karisia Hills and Laikipia to lovely Tassia where you will be based for two nights. Home to the Samburu tribe you’ll be able to learn more about them and their ways. Tassia is in it’s own conservancy so you can walk, run, and night drive too, and where you’ll see different wildlife too: our arid specialists that thrive here.
30th & 31st December 2018: AMBOSELI
Your �inal destination is Amboseli where we will have set up camp just for you at the base of our continent’s highest mountain - Kilimanjaro. Fabulous elephant viewing and it is here that we have built up a really close relationship with the local Maasai. Again we are in a private concession so excising and getting out on foot is a must. You will be here for two nights.
1 s t J a n u a r y 2 0 1 9 T R A V E L D AY A N D N A I R O B I
We welcome you back to Hog House the remainder of your last day, we are close to shops and craft centres. We will transfer you to the international airport for your �light home.
R E G I O N S
C O P E FA M I LY S A FA R I I T I N E R A R Y This 11 day safari combines three of our best wildlife areas; the Maasai Mara, the North and Amboseli with the traditional cultures of the Turkana, Samburu and Maasai. We are accommodating you in true safari style in Ker & Downey’s private luxury camp, and in beautiful small family owned lodges.
D AY 1
NAIROBI
HOG HOUSE
D AY 2 - 4
MAASAI MARA
Lake Turkana
K & D P R I VA T E LUXU RY C A M P D AY 5 & 6
LAKE TURKANA LOBOLO CAMP D AY 7 & 8
THE ARID NORTH TA S S I A
D AY 9 & 1 0
AMBOSELI
K & D P R I VA T E LUXU RY C A M P D AY 1 1
NAIROBI
HOG HOUSE
You begin in Nairobi with a night in the Giraffe Sanctuary where our home is located. This is followed by three days in the Maasai Mara which is incredible for wildlife year round. The Big Cats are superb and there is plentiful plains game in this, our jewel in the crown.
Lake Logipi
Lake Baringo
Ewaso Nyiro River
Samburu
Shaba
Lake Bogoria
Lake Victoria
Equator
Mt. Kenya
Lake Nakuru Masai Mara
We then take you on a breaktaking adventure to the Jade Sea by helicopter - to perhaps our most drammatic and raw part of the country. Next you head to Tassia where you’ll see arid specialists like Reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk and oryx.
Lake Naivasha Nairobi Tana River
Lake Magadi Amboseli
Ts a v o Watamu
Mombasa
Lamu
Finally into the shadows of Kilimanjaro to Amboseli with fantastic elephant viewing and back into your own private camp. We have woven into the itinerary special exposure to our authentic tribal cultures that for now, remain intact. You will be privately guided throughout your safari.
K E N YA
‘ S A FA R I ’ i s t h e S w a h i l i w o r d f o r ‘ a j o u r n e y ’ a n d K e n y a e v o k e s n o s t a l g i a f o r t h e e a r l i e s t o r i g i n s
of the African safari. Romance and adventure are plentiful in the classic stories told in ‘Out of Africa’ a n d ‘ B o r n F r e e ’, i l l u s t r a t i n g K e n y a ’ s s c e n e r y, w i l d l i f e a n d p e o p l e , w h i c h h a v e e n d u r i n g a p p e a l .
Kenya is a sovereign state achieving political independence from the British in 1963. Since, anxious times have been de�ied, mainly due to its dynamic people who are amongst the most colourful in East Africa. Friendly and hospitable, the Kenyan people rely heavily on tourism.
Located on the east coast of Africa, the Equator bisects the country resulting in a tropical climate, although diverse geography provokes wide variations in temperature, rainfall and humidity. In relation to size, the assorted landscape is unparalleled and the multitude of national parks and reserves all have their own unique attractions. Marine reserves boast coral reef gardens with palm fringed beaches and turquoise oceans, while the savannah grasslands exhibit quintessential depictions of imagined Africa, harsh trackless expanses, solitary �lat - topped acacias and incredible concentrations of plains game.
Kenya remains one of the best places in Africa to see great wildlife – lions, elephants, leopards and of course the annual ‘wildebeest migration’ streaming into the Masai Mara from Tanzania. The East African Rift Valley runs through the country from top to bottom and provides stunning landscapes of giant volcanoes, hot springs and �lamingo sprinkled lakes.
Dominated by Lake Turkana, the ancient source of the Nile, the Rift Valley lakes are some of the most picturesque in Africa. The formation of the Rift created Mt Kenya, the second highest peak in Africa, some three millions years ago. “The spiritual home of safari, Kenya is where it all began. From the big cats of the Mara to the elephants of Amboseli, combined with traditional tribes, real tented camps and an unparalleled physical diversity, Kenya has it all. ”
Uganda
KENYA Lake Victoria Rwanda Burundi
Tanzania
Zanzibar
“A c o n t i n e n t i n o n e c o u n t r y ” Sandor Carter
H O G
H O U S E
Hidden in the 130 acre Giraffe Sanctuary in Langata, Hog House is a private home with incredible views across to the Ngong Hills. Serene and peaceful you would hardly believe you are in one of Africa’s largest capital cities.
Located close to both Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, and Wilson Airport, this unusual family home is an ideal place to begin or end your safari. Its rustic décor and the fact that it is surrounded by wildlife will help to ease you in, and out, of your time here on safari. The straw bale construction uses plantation cedar and fallen African olive and blends with the wooded sanctuary perfectly. The house itself comprises 2 double bedrooms and a triple, all ensuite. There are a further 2 cottages outside in the garden for larger groups. Hog House is only available for exclusive use. The large open plan sitting/dining is cosy with a warm �ireplace and lots of seating for all to congregate. Daytime meals we normally take outside in the shade of the Euclea trees in the garden, and a beautiful horizon pool beckons on hot afternoons. Walking in the sanctuary is the perfect way to loosen up stiff joints from long intercontinental �lights and you have
every chance of seeing Rothschild’s giraffe, warthog, dik dik, bushbuck, suni and Syke’s monkeys. Birds of every colour throng around the bird table and hyrax will doubtless entertain you at night! The Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, and many craft centres are all within a stone’s throw of Hog House.
“It is a privilege to stay in this unusual and
beautiful home within the G I R A F F E S A N C T U A R Y,
so close and convenient to all the classic
Nairobi attractions, and yet quietly tucked away in your o w n h a v e n o f s e r e n i t y.”
M A S A I
M A R A
P r o b a b l y t h e b e s t k n o w n a r e a i n t h e Wo r l d f o r B i g G a m e -
t h i s e x t r a o r d i n a r y r e s e r v e i s f a b u l o u s f o r w i l d l i f e t h r o u g h o u t t h e y e a r. Almost 450,000 acres of rolling grasslands, make up the Masai Mara Reserve and Conservancies, bordered by mountains to the north and east and the Siria escarpment to the west. The permanent meandering rivers traced by deep forest snake across the savannah. The Mara’s proximity to Lake Victoria, which creates its own weather patterns, ensures that the area receives much higher rainfall than the Serengeti ecosystem.
This crucial fact enables millions of animals, including gazelle, zebra and antelope, to survive through the driest time of year. After the short rains the fresh grass attracts many herbivores, and predators! An hour can pass in nail-biting anticipation as a cheetah conducts a painstaking stalk of her prey, only to lose her meal at the last moment when the wind changes.
Only in the Mara does the whole spectrum of life and death, birth and growth seem to be there for you, right before your eyes. Most documentary wildlife �ilmmakers choose the Mara due to the abundance and easy access to wild animals here.
Watch the peculiar quality of the light, and the shadows of the clouds on the plains, the strange optical illusions of the distant herds silhouetted along the horizon. Light and shadow, rock and grassland, predators and prey, this is quintessential Africa.
Lake Turkana
Lake Victoria
MASAI MARA
Mt. Kenya N.P
Nairobi Amboseli
Serengeti N.P Ts a v o N.P
M A R A
M O B I L E
C A M P
E x p e r i e n c e t o t a l f r e e d o m i n s o m e o f t h e m o s t b r e a t h t a k i n g a r e a s t h e M a r a R e s e r v e h a s t o o f f e r, where animals stroll right past the camp and you have the privilege to set the pace
Mara Mobile Camp is located within the Masai Mara National Reserve, which lies in the northern-most sector of the 373,000 acre Mara ecosystem. The mobility of the camp provides the ultimate advantage with regards to wildlife viewing, particularly of occurrences as unpredictable as the Great Migration. This freedom allows for the locating of the ideal vantage point for witnessing over a million wildebeest, 360,000 Thomson’s gazelle and 200,000 zebra descending on the Mara plains. Situated on vast grasslands and shaded by dense bush and �lat top acacias, the tented camp is equipped with all the necessities required for a comfortable getaway with its simplicity adding to the authentic African bush experience. The wildlife is abundant and birdlife is particularly proli�ic with over 450 bird species, 57 of which are birds of prey - this area is a bird lovers’ dream. The Mara is known for its high predator populations including lion, leopard, cheetah and hyena. A wide variety of other mammals may also be viewed including elephant, buffalo, hippo, topi and rhino.
of your own safari escape.
An additional pleasure of a mobile camp is the �lexible time frame in which dining, relaxing and activities may be enjoyed. The mobile camp focuses on exclusivity and privacy. Away from commonly visited areas and free from schedules, an ambience of pure enjoyment is created. A true highlight occurs after evening dining, where a crackling camp�ire and star scattered Kenyan sky keep company with the calls of hyena and grunting hippo. The format of the mobile camp also aids in the conservation of the Mara - Serengeti ecosystem, with the land being left as untouched as it was before, once the experience comes to an end.
“A s o n e o f t h e
wonders of the natural world, the Migration is a sight to behold and one
which is perfectly
catered for at the unique M a r a M o b i l e C a m p .”
THE
G REAT
RIFT
VAL L E Y
T h e G r e a t R i f t V a l l e y, a l a n d s c a p e i n t u r m o i l , t o r n a p a r t b y t h e t w i s t i n g a n d b u c k l i n g o f t h e E a r t h ’ s c r u s t . I t i s a l s o a l a n d s c a p e o f h u g e u n p r e d i c t a b l e c h a n g e , t h a t f o r c e s a n i m a l s d a y b y d a y, s e a s o n b y s e a s o n t o gamble with their lives, but for those that win, this is one of the most fertile landscapes on Earth. The Great Rift Valley was the name given by British explorer John Walter Gregory, to the continuous geographic trench, approximately 6,000 kilometres in length, running from northern Syria to central Mozambique in South East Africa. The East African Rift Vally has two branches – the Eastern branch which runs through Kenya and Northern Tanzania, and the Western branch through DR Congo, and Western Tanzania. The Western Rift is edged by some of the highest mountains in Africa including t h e V i r u n g a M o u n t a i n s i n Rwa n d a , a n d a l s o includes the Great Lakes. These are some of the deepest lakes in the world and all of the African Great Lakes were formed as the result of the rift.
In Kenya, the valley is at it’s most dramatic to the north of Nairobi, the ancient volcanoes of Longonot and Suswa are easy to see from the road. Most lakes in northern Kenya are shallow and poorly drained and therefore have become alkaline. Their waters are rich in blue - green algae which
David Attenborough
feed insect larvae, small crustaceans and massive �locks of �lamingos. The Kenya Lake system is also a key location on a route followed by huge numbers of birds in their annual migration from breeding grounds in the north, to wintering places in Africa. The lands around the lakes include large populations of Black rhino (Lake Nakuru), Rothschild's giraffe, Greater kudu, lion, cheetah and wild dogs. Lake Turkana
GREAT RIFT VALLEY Shaba N.P Buffalo Springs N.P Lake Victoria Masai Mara
Mt. Kenya N.P Nairobi
Amboseli N.P
Ts a v o N.P
H E L I C O P T E R
S A F A R I S
The possibilities are endless...wilderness, wildlife and
nomadic tribal communities of the untouched north of Kenya.
MAGADO CRATER Magado is an incredible volcanic crater in which salt deposits at the base are used by local Meru and Boran tribes people. This is a wild spot where we plan to explore and picnic on one of the days.
We could spend a day and go north to Lake Turkana – the Jade Sea – far up towards the Ethiopian border – and a place where very very few people ever go…. LAKE TURKANA This lake formerly known as Lake Rudolf, is the largest of Kenya’s Rift Valley lakes, with its far northern end crossing into Ethiopia. It is the world's largest permanent desert lake and the world's largest alkaline lake. Blue-green algae give the water a greenish tint and when you see it you will understand why it is also known as the “Jade Sea”. It is surrounded by volcanoes at its southern end, and Central Island is still active.
SUGUTA VALLEY We may �ly north over the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley and into the Suguta Valley where the river is lined with doum and barassus palms. The river snakes its way in slow meanders but is trapped by the walls of the Great Rift. Its headwaters lie south of Lake Turkana in a land dominated by sand dunes.
LOGIPI Just south of Lake Turkana and separated from it by a volcanic barrier, lies Logipi – a shallow lake which is home to many thousands of �lamingos and other water birds. This part of Kenya is incredibly remote, very few people have ever seen this lake. The helicopter allows unbeatable views of the birdlife. We do hope to maximize your safari by using the helicopter – certainly it will give you the very best view, enable us to spot game from the air, and appreciate the enormous diversity of this country – from snow capped mountains, to dusty deserts, plains covered with game and lush river valleys.
L A KE
T URKA NA
I n t h e n o r t h e r n m o s t p a r t o f t h e K e n y a n G r e a t R i f t Va l l e y i s L a k e T u r k a n a . It is widely known as the Jade Sea due to the remarkable greenish-blue colour of its waters, an ethereal mirage immerging from the sweltering arid desert surrounds. Lake Turkana is the largest alkaline desert lake in the world, 300 kilometres long and 50 kilometres wide with the main tributary, the River Omo, entering from the north and contributing more than 90% of the total water in�lux.
The lake lies at the heart of the Sibiloi National Park, established originally to protect some of the world’s most important paleontological and archaeological sites. Turkana has one of the longest living histories and is regarded by many as the birthplace of humanity; the humanoid fossils unearthed by the Leakey family in the 1960’s are around 2.5 million years old. Lake Turkana offers a cultural glimpse at colourful tribes unaffected by the 21st century, utterly reliant on the lake as the only permanent water source in the area. Sibiloi National Park has excellent game-viewing, a refuge for a number of dry country species including gerenuk, oryx, lesser kudu, Grant’s gazelle and Grevy’s zebra. Along the shorelines an abundance of topi and Burchell’s zebra entice the resident predators, including lion, cheetah, side-striped jackal, spotted hyena and the rare striped hyena. Three South Island from
volcanic islands in Lake Turkana – Island, Central Island and North – provide incredible vantage points which to experience the rich
lacustrine wildlife supported by the lake itself. Central Island, with its stunning scenery and three crater lakes, is a breeding ground for the world’s biggest population of Nile crocodiles. There is proli�ic birdlife and at certain times of the year, well over 300 species can be observed as African and Palaearctic migrants break their northward journeys. Scenic beyond belief, surrounded by cliffs, gentle beaches, desert and volcanic rock outcrops, Lake Turkana is certainly one of East Africa’s best kept secrets. LAKE TURKANA
Buffalo Springs N.P Lake Victoria Masai Mara
Shaba N.P Mt. Kenya N.P
Nairobi Amboseli N.P
Ts a v o N.P
L O B O L O
C A M P
Midway along the western shore of Lake Turkana sheltered in the hollow of a spit lies Lobolo, w h i c h i n t h e l o c a l T u r k a n a l a n g u a g e m e a n s “ a p l a c e o f a b u n d a n t w a t e r.”
Indeed Lobolo is an area of natural springs whose waters have given rise to a verdant oasis of foliage and distinct animal and birdlife. It is a discreet oasis with a special atmosphere of tranquility and a halcyon spirit, “Far from the Madding Crowd.”
Adeptly integrated into this milieu are the eight ensuite safari-genre tents, with spring water showers, �lushing toilets and washbasins, that lie nestled within the extensive palm grove. Each tent has it’s unique remarkable varied view of the sandy beach, the lake, Central Island and the distant shoreline. Explore Lobolo’s forest and spring, spot unique birds, often you will sight visiting migratory species. Relish the unspoiled beach and climb the cliff which is a backdrop to the camp and marvel at the panoramic view of the spectacular combination of features before you that can only be experienced and cap it with a sundowner atop the cliff.
With excellent boats and guides - trips around the Lake, specialized �ishing trips for Nile Perch and many others are possible Overnight �ly camps on Central Island National Park can also be arranged. Each lake has its own unique ecology - and �lamingo, crocodiles and plenty of water birds can be seen as you follow the narrow ridges across the island’s spine. A hike around the crater rim is an ideal way to spend the morning or afternoon.
“Lobolo camp is a nexus for journeys on and
a r o u n d L a k e T u r k a n a .”
K E N YA’ S
A RID
NO RT H
S a m b u r u , B u f f a l o S p r i n g s , M e r u a n d S h a b a a r e a l l w i l d l i f e r e s e r ve s w h i c h l i e i n a va s t a r e a o f o p e n , t h o r n b u s h c o u n t r y a n d d e s e r t t h a t s t r e t c h e s n o r t h f r o m M t . Ke n ya t o S u d a n a n d E t h i o p i a . I t i s t h e s t a r k c o n t r a s t between emptiness, wilderness and rising mountains that makes this area such a spectacular destination. The lifeblood of the North is the Ewaso Nyiro River and the crystal clear springs that empty into it. Its banks shaded by graceful doum palms, poplars and Acacia elatior trees, the Ewaso Nyiro attracts more and more wildlife as the dry season lengthens from June to October, although it is beautiful at any time of year.
Here you will �ind animals like the Grevy zebra, Beisa oryx, the Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and the tiny dik-dik; all species of northern Kenya which have adapted to the harsh arid conditions of the Northern Frontier District. With luck you will also �ind the 'big cats' staking out the favourite drinking places of their prey along the lovely palm-fringed banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Wherever you look mountains rise out of the plains in the blue distance, the conical ash cones of the Nyambenis to the south, Lolokwe and the rugged Mathews Range in the east and to the north the granite towers of Bodich, Kamanga and Tumtu that impose above the Ewaso Nyiro.
Samburu, Pokot, Turkana, Rendille, Gabbra – these are the tribes of the north. All are proud and tough. The Samburu are related to the Masai although they live just north of the equator where the foothills of Mount Kenya merge into the northern desert and slightly south of Lake Turkana in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya. The purported
bene�its of modern life are often undesirable to the Samburu. They remain much more traditional in life and attitude than their Maasai cousins. The Turkana, like the Samburu and Maasai, still maintain their undiluted traditional way of life. They are distinguished as being great survivors, living in harsh and inhospitable terrain. As with all other pastoralist tribes in Kenya, livestock, especially cattle, are at the core of Turkana culture, they live a nomadic life, always moving from one place to another depending on the availability of pasture and water for their animals. Lake Turkana
K E N YA’ S ARID NORTH Ewaso Nyiro River Equator
Lake Victoria Masai Mara
Mt. Kenya N.P Nairobi Amboseli N.P
Tana River Ts a v o N.P
T A S S I A
Ta s s i a e m a n a t e s p e a c e a n d t r a n q u i l i t y f r o m t h e m o m e n t y o u a r r i v e , i t c a p t u r e s a l l e l e m e n t s o f t h e Kenyan bush and is an ideal escape for those searching for a taste of unspoiled africa
Tassia Lodge is a unique, rustic and natural-feeling lodge, quite unlike any others in the region. Set on a rocky outcrop on the spur of an escarpment in the Lekurruki Community Ranch, Tassia is a partnership between its managers and the local Mokogodo Maasai community. It gives a spectacular and breathtaking view of the Northern Frontier District towards Samburu and is neighbour to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Borana.
Your hosts, the Mokogodo Maasai have been guardians of this 60,000 acre wilderness for thousands of years, they create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, which makes guests feel immediately at home.
Tassia sits perched on the Mokogodo escarpment at hovering height for the birds of Laikipia, so bird watching and bird conservation is both easy and vastly enjoyable here, combined with botanical walks, bush walks, and cultural experiences this is a truly traditional safari adventure which encourages all members of the family to get out of the vehicle and truly encounter wilderness at its best.
Your room is beautifully decorated with day beds, cow skin rugs, Moroccan furniture and fabrics, but best of all each room has sweeping views of Laikipia, and the valley below the escarpment – every room is ensuite with a shower and loo with a view.
Tassia is an eco lodge which specializes in maintaining a minimal footprint on the environment, and encouraging conservation of the wildlife amongst the local tribes people, whom they work closely with every day.
This is wild country. It is unlikely that guests will see another visitor for the duration of their stay. Tassia is a base for adventure, with activities including night game-drives, helicopter excursions, paragliding, forest walks, falconry, bush walks and trips to Il Ngwesi village.
“ T h e p e o p l e i n Ta s s i a make the difference.
Yo u c a n f e e l t h e S P I R I T ! ”
A M B O S E L I
Against the magni�icent backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro lies Amboseli, a national park and ecosystem. Meaning the ‘salty earth’ in the language of the Maasai, Amboseli is aptly named after the alkaline volcanic ash that spewed from the now dormant volcano Kilimanjaro. The 1.2 million acre ecosystem lies on Kenya’s boarder with Tanzania and incorporates habitats of dry lake beds, savannah grasslands, woodland and swamps fed by springs emanating from Mount Kilimanjaro.
The area is home to grassland dwellers such as buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, gazelle and warthog, while the resident predators include lion, cheetah and hyena. Amboseli is also a birding hotspot, with over 600 species recorded. The principal attraction at Amboseli however, is the large herds of free roaming elephants made famous by Dr. Joyce Poole who, through the Amboseli Elephant Research Project, put these intelligent giants on the map. Her long running large mammal research project in Africa combines 30 years of uninterrupted study and chronicles Amboseli’s elephant herds, from new born calves to 60 year old matriarchs and old bulls that carry some of the longest tusks in Africa. Contiguous with Amboseli National Park is the Kitirua Wildlife Conservancy, a partnership between a local Maasai community and the private sector.
Designed to protect wildlife, this private and exclusive conservancy enables both day and night drives, walking and an unparalleled opportunity to meet members of the Maasai community in a welcoming and culturally sensitive manner.
This is a quintessential African landscape of elephants and traditional tribes with the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro rising above the clouds behind. Lake Turkana
Lake Victoria
Mt. Kenya N.P
Masai Mara
Nairobi
AMBOSELI N.P
Kilimanjaro N.P
Ts a v o N.P
A M B O S E L I
M O B I L E
C A M P
The raw beauty of this diverse landscape and astounding ecosystem complete with the backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, is unsurpassed.
Amboseli Mobile is located on a 30,000 acre private conservancy belonging to the Kisongo Maasai people. Lying in the Amboseli area and adjacent to the National Park, the mobile camp has undisturbed views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Amboseli eco- system comprises open grasslands, woodlands and swamps, which are watered by mountain springs.
The purpose of Amboseli Mobile is to forge a temporary, yet ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area. The tented camp is equipped with all the necessities required for a unique getaway, its simplicity adding to the experience. The presence of the mobile camp supports the conservancy, the local community and the conservation of the Amboseli ecosystem. When the camp leaves, it leaves nothing behind, the land being left to the wildlife and their Maasai custodians. Being a mobile camp, all activities, be that on safari or choosing when to eat, are completely �lexible. Generally the day revolves around an early m o r n i n g g a m e d r ive , fo l l o we d by a l a te morning drive after breakfast. There is a healthy population of lion in the area with
the chance of spotting cheetah, as well as good numbers of general game.
It is also possible to walk, and a late afternoon stroll as the sun sets across the plains towards Kilimanjaro is spectacular. Another unique opportunity is to be able to spend time with the Kitirua community and learn about their rich culture. Ker & Downey has nurtured a relationship over 30 years with the Kisongo Maasai, as a result, respect and trust have developed for one another making trips to the local school and homesteads possible. One of the highlights of the Amboseli Mobile however, is the opportunity to view large herds of magni�icent elephant, many of the bulls still carrying some of the longest tusks on the African continent.
“A m b o s e l i M o b i l e C a m p
is a natural gateway to the w i l d A f r i c a n b u s h .”
M A A S A I
T h e M a a s a i t r i b e s p e o p l e o f s o u t h e r n K e n y a a n d n o r t h e r n Ta n z a n i a
are a Nilotic ethnic group who arrived in this area about 300 years ago from the North. They are among the best known, and most distinctive tribes living in the semi arid lands along and beside the Great Rift Valley and close to many well known national parks and reserves. Their cousins North of the Equator are the Samburu, with whom they share many customs. The Maasai occupy a total land area of 39.5 million acres and number around 1.5million. They are semi-nomadic herding cattle over large areas of communally owned land. Their family encampments are comprised of a circular boma (fence) of Acacia to protect livestock from predators. Inside the boma they build small loafshaped houses made of mud, sticks, grass and cow dung. The women are responsible for building houses, supplying water, collecting �irewood, milking cattle and cooking. The young men or warriors (Moran) enforce security while boys are responsible for herding livestock. The elders are directors and advisors of day-to-day activities and make decisions for the whole community. On the western boundary of National Park lies Kitirua – concession shared between Downey and the local Kisongo
Amboseli a private Ker and clan. We
have nurtured a relationship over 35 years such that we are welcomed into their homes to learn something of their traditional way of life. By the same token we welcome them into camp thereby creating a unique opportunity for guests to interact. K&D sponsors two local schools in the area. The Ngararambuni Nursery school is on the edge of Kitirua Conservancy and caters to children between 4 & 10 years old. It is still set up underneath a large spreading Acacia tortilis and has three dedicated Maasai teachers. We helped to set this little school up in 2003, before this the children would have to walk 7km through an area rich in big game to get to school.
Whilst in Amboseli we encourage as much interaction with local people as possible. Even though we do not share a language it is extraordinary to watch our children play with theirs as the common language of fun transgresses these boundaries. Learning to throw spears and how to use bows and arrows, digging for water, and donning traditional garb are all a part of being with these colourful, friendly, fun and fascinating people.
M O B I L E
C A M P
C U I S I N E
Fo o d h a s b e c o m e a l m o s t a re l i g i o n fo r a va s t n u m b e r o f p e o p l e a ro u n d t h e wo rl d . It is a reason to travel and explore. It is about fashion, passion and inspiration; all these components make the kitchen an intrinsic part your mobile camp experience. The cuisine is an integral part of your safari
The kitchen is extremely mobile, so you will
vibrant and packed full of �lavour. All our
We also offer a 'Bitings' evening, which is
with us. We believe that the food has to match food
is
your
experience.
light,
fresh,
It's
organic
colourful,
ingredients are locally sourced.
and
the
The food is a fusion of cuisines from around the globe with an African twist. It is a combination
of
Mediterranean,
Middle
eastern, Pan Asian, Moroccan and Swahili.
Antonia Stogdale trained as a chef at Leith’s
school of Food and Wine. She has published
her own cookbook and teaches cookery courses all over East Africa. You can join Antonia and her team and learn how to bake
fresh bread & pastries or how to make the
dine in a variety of locations with exquisite
views to match the food you'll be enjoying. African Tapas under the stars by the camp �ire.
Our food is very healthy and we are happy to
cater for all dietary requirements. Fresh fruits, vegetables and salads feature greatly
on our menus, as well as organic meats and
cheeses. All breads and pastries are freshly made in camp every day. Food safety is of
the upmost importance to us and all chef 's
and food handlers have completed one of Antonia's food safety & hygiene courses.
perfect egg benedict in the bush. It's a great
We also carry a large selection of �ine wines,
tin trunk oven!
water is provided in camp.
activity for the kids: they can learn to make
pizza or brownies over an open �ire & in a
beer, spirits, sodas, soft drinks, freshly made juices, coffee, tea, herbal teas and mineral
K E N YA
WILD LIFE
T RU ST
Fo u n d e d by a g ro u p o f Ke r & D ow n ey g u i d e s , Ke nya W i l d l i fe Tr u s t
is here to protect the country’s predators through a network of high-impact conservation initiatives In 2007, a small group of private guides decided to form a Trust, as a way to raise funds through their safaris for grassroots conservation projects around Kenya. The result of that pioneering and entrepreneurial spirit is Kenya Wildlife Trust.
Our long-term partnership with Ker & Downey re�lects the fact that the best private guides have conservation in their DNA. What we offer to both guides and visitors is a trustworthy pair of hands, focused on putting the right boots on the ground rather than into big of�ices. Remaining close to a range of safari partners, we are uniquely positioned to connect visitors from abroad to effective, grassroots conservation. Over the years, our team has developed a curated portfolio of high-impact conservation initiatives, with a strong focus on big cats. Since 2013, our two �lagship projects - the Mara Cheetah Project and Mara Lion Project - have been monitoring big cats with the long-term aim of stabilising the populations of both cheetah and lion. During your safari, you will spend time with both of our project teams at the Tony Lapham Predator Hub in the heart of the Masai Mara, learning about their focus, methods and �indings.
By raising funds through safaris, we can award grants to those projects (and people) achieving meaningful results across the three ‘pillars’ of Predator Conservation, Community Development and Conservation Education. Undertaking robust monitoring and evaluation of all our grants, we are the donor’s eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring every penny ends up where it should. Our team understands the importance of balancing scienti�ic research with community engagement, as well as the value of investing in people who live near wildlife. After all, conservation is really about people. “By donating to Kenya Wildlife Trust through their UK charity, I know and trust that my money is going straight to the cause.” Donor to The Friends of Kenya Wildlife Trust
Thanks to a sma ll number of donors who c o ver our c ore c osts, 100 % o f e v e r y d o n a t i o n g o e s d i r e ct l y t o o u r p r o g ra ms .
Moreo ver, for e ver y £1
we spend on c ore c osts, w e ra is e a t l e a s t £ 4 .
F R O M 2 0 0 7 T O 2 0 1 7 - C E L E B R AT I N G
1 0 Y E A R S O F C O N S E R VA T I O N I M PA C T.
J A M E S
R O B E R T S O N
T h i r t y - � i v e y e a r s a f t e r l e a d i n g h i s � i r s t e x p e d i t i o n , J a m e s i s c h a i r m a n o f t h e b o a r d a t K e r & D o w n e y, and an in�luential leader of the new movement in community-led conservation.
Like the safari industry itself, James Robertson was born and raised in Kenya, where his appetite for adventure has earned him a reputation as one of the modern pioneers of the global safari business.
James’ dependability for never following the same itinerary twice, and for continually searching out new experiences for his clients, has won him admirers across the industry, as well as an army of repeat guests (including two families who have each travelled with him 26 times!). Among his long-standing Kenyan crew, he’s known as “Ndorobo” after the fabled hunter-gathers of northern Kenya – a tribe renowned for their resourceful bushcraft, and their complete absence of fear for wild animals. Although James’ �irst love and main base is Kenya, he is an “all-Africa guide” and just as likely to be found travelling through the game-rich parks, reserves and conservancies of eastern and southern Africa. In recent years, he has been supporting a number of Maasai and Samburu communities that have turned part of their grazing lands over to conservation – giving guests a chance to see some rarer wildlife species, and to experience an absolutely authentic immersion in two of the world’s oldest tribal cultures. In 2001, James was a founder of The Mara Conservancy, a ground-breaking and widely-admired partnership between conservationists and the county government, which established a new public-private template to protect the critical wildlife dispersal areas north of the Maasai Mara Reserve. He sits on the board of the (removed the MMWCT) Kenya Wildlife Trust , and his unrivalled contacts enable his guests to meet some of the leading conservationists and wildlife researchers in the world.
Having been raised on the edge of Kenya's largest National Park, Tsavo is close to James’ heart. His most recent focus is on protecting the last remaining Great Tuskers of which there are around 10 bulls each carrying in excess of 100lbs of ivory per side. He is working closely with the Tsavo Trust to protect these valuable elephants.
James and Abigail live within a wildlife sanctuary on the outskirts of Nairobi, where they host most of their guests personally. They work together as much as possible out on safari where their shared passions are apparent to anyone travelling with them.
TEL: +254 (0)720 911 143
EMAIL: INFO@JAMESROBERTSON.CO.KE S K Y P E : J RS A FA R I S
W W W. K E R D O W N E Y S A FA R I S . C O M