E L L I S FA M I LY S A FA R I 3 DE SI G NE D & GU I DE D BY JA M E S RO BE RT S O N
TA N Z A N I A & K E N YA 1 7 th - 3 0 th JU N E 2 0 1 9
I T I N E R A R Y
O V E R V I E W
L E G E N D A R Y C O F F E E L O D G E - N A M I R I P L A I N S - S AYA R I - L A R A G A I - S A R A R A T R E E H O U S E S - K E R & D O W N E Y L U X U R Y C A M P I N G - H O G H O U S E
ARUSHA - CENTRAL SERENGETI - NORTHERN SERENGETI - LAIKIPIA - THE ARID NORTH - AMBOSELI - NAIROBI 17th June 2019: ARUSHA
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be met and transferred to Legendary Coffee Lodge. Here you will meet James and the rest of his guiding team. You will be here for one night.
18th & 19th June 2019: CENTRAL SERENGETI
After an early breakfast you will transfer to Arusha Airport from where you will ly by private charter west, across the Rift Valley and Crater Highlands to Seronero. You will game drive into Namiri Plains through one of the most productive areas for big cats in the Serengeti. You will have two nights here.
20th & 21st June 2019: NORTHERN SERENGETI
You will ly, again by private charter, north into the kopjes of Kogatende and you will be based at Sayari for two nights. The wildebeest migration should be massing in this area and preparing to cross the Mara River into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
22nd -24th June 2019: LAIKIPIA
Today you will ly via Kilimanjaro into Kenya, clearing customs in Nairobi and continuing over the Equator to Laikipia. You will stay at Laragai House on Borana Ranch for three nights.
2 5 t h J u n e 2 0 1 9 : H E L I C O P T E R S A FA R I
Today we really raise the adrenaline levels and take you on a helicopter safari to our remote north! You will stop on rocky pinnacles, by palm lined rivers, next to lurid volcanic hotsprings, by ancient rock art, amongst vast sand dunes, and skim over the lamingo frindged shores of Logipi to ultimately reach the “Jade Sea” - or Lake Turkana. This is the most phenominal way to enhance your safari and access parts of the country that few will ever reach.
25th & 26th June 2019: THE ARID NORTH
The choppers will drop you, at the end of the day at Sarara in the Mathew’s Ranges. Superb leopard and elephant viewing here. You will stay in Sarara’s newest addition: the Tree Houses for two nights. You will have the opportunity to visit the Reteti Elephant orphanage.
27th - 29th June 2019: AMBOSELI
Your inal destination will be Amboseli, in the shadows of our continent’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro. Here you will be staying in our luxury camp set up just for you for three nights.
3 0 t h J u n e 2 0 1 9 : N A I R O B I A N D T R AV E L
On your last day we will ly you back to Nairobi and you are welcome to base at our home, Hog House for the remainder of the day before you ly home. We are conveniently located near both airports, as well as many craft centres. We will transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airort for you to catch your light home.
R E G I O N S
E L L I S FA M I LY S A FA R I I T I N E R A R Y 3 This incredible two week safari takes in the very best of East Africa combining the Serengeti in N. Tanzania with Kenya’s north and Amboseli. You will stay in traditional safari camps and some boutique lodges, both within and outside of national parks.
D AY 1
ARUSHA
L E G E N DA RY COFFEE LODGE
D AY 2 & 3
NAMIRI PLAINS
N. SERENGETI S AYA R I
LAIKIPIA LARAGAI
D AY 9 & 1 0
THE ARID NORTH
SARARA TREE HOUSES D AY 1 1 - 1 3
AMBOSELI
KER & DOWNEY L U X U R Y P R I VA T E C A M P D AY 1 4
NAIROBI
HOG HOUSE
KENYA
Lake Logipi
D AY 4 & 5 D AY 6 - 8
You begin with a night in Arusha on arrival after which we take you to the Central Serengeti. Namiri Plains is located in perhaps the very best Big Cat viewing in E.Africa. We then head north to Sayari close to the Mara River where, in June, we expect the wildebeest to be gathering and preparing to cross into Kenya as part of the Great Migration.
Lake Turkana
C. SERENGETI
Lake Baringo
Ewaso Nyiro River
Samburu
Shaba
Lake Bogoria
Lake Victoria
Equator
Mt. Kenya
Lake Nakuru
Lake Naivasha Nairobi
Masai Mara
Tana River
Lake Magadi Amboseli Serengeti Ts a v o Arusha
TANZANIA
Watamu
Mombasa
Lamu
We then head north to beautiful Borana in Laikipia where you will see the arid specialists Reticulated giraffe and Grevy’s zebra as well as our rarest pachyderm the Black, and the White rhinoceras and plenty of other game. On the day you transfer from Borana to Sarara we want to encourage you to explore the north by helicopter. This is an extraordinary opportunity where you will stop many times en route in wildly different terrains. Whilst at Sarara where you will have time to learn more about the Samburu tribe and their ancient ways - the leopard and elephant here are superb. You will also be able to learn more about the really important conservation work of the Reteti Elephant orphanage. Finally we head to Amboseli, at the foot of Kilimanjaro where you will see elephants like never before. And you will also be with the Kisongo Maasai with whom we have developed a unique relationship over the last 40 years.
You will be privately guided throughout by James Robertson, chairman of Ker and Downey safaris.
T A N Z A N I A
A l a n d o f t r u l y i c o n i c n a m e s , Ta n z a n i a i s s t e e p e d i n r o m a n c e ; S e r e n g e t i , K i l i m a n j a r o a n d Z a n z i b a r. The African experience on a truly grand scale.
The United Republic of Tanzania is a country of exceptional geographic diversity, from the lofty heights of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest free standing mountain in the world, to the rolling plains of the Serengeti and the tropical beach paradise of Zanzibar, the spice island.
Two of Africa’s most celebrated wilderness areas – the Ngorogoro Crater and the Serengeti – are located within Northern Tanzania and boast some of the largest concentration of game on the continent. The latter acts as a stage for one of the world’s natural wonders as close to 2,000,000 wildebeest, zebra and gazelle migrate through the Serengeti ecosystem annually. Also located here are the famous soda lakes of the Great Rift Valley, notably Lake Natron and Lake Manyara, which attract a multitude of �lamingoes every year. The lesser known areas of the Selous, Katavi, Ruaha and Mahale �launt an abundance of animals in the wildest possible settings. These areas exude an aura of untrammelled wilderness, conserved by limited accessibility and truly belong to the animals.
Mahale is situated on the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyike, the second deepest lake in the world and offers an exceptional opportunity to trek with wild chimpanzees in a Robinson Crusoe setting.
Tanzania is also home to some of the earliest known human development, it was at Olduavi Gorge that the Leakey family made revelatory anthropological discoveries and at Gombe Stream that Jane Goodall began to unlock the secrets of our cousins and our evolution.
The population of Tanzania is about 37 million, united by a shared experience of nationhood and a common language. Culturally rich, the Tanzanians are famed for their warmth, dignity and hospitality, from the Maasai in the north to the distinctly middle-eastern inspired Swahili culture of coastal Zanzibar.
“For the serious wildlife enthusiast, Tanzania should feature high on their list. The great Serengti migration, walking safaris in the Selous Game Reserve and the best chimpanzee sightings in Africa.”
Uganda Kenya Lake Victoria Rwanda Burundi
TANZANIA
Zanzibar
“ Q u i t e s i m p l y, i n c o m p a r a b l e ”
LE G ENDA RY
LO DG E
Set on a fragrant working coffee farm among lush tropical gardens on the outskirts of Arusha, L e g e n d a r y L o d g e o f f e r s l u x u r i o u s a c c o m m o d a t i o n t h a t f e e l s l i k e a ‘ h o m e f r o m h o m e ’.
Legendary Lodge is located in the city of Arusha, the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania, providing the perfect hub from which to explore the many outstanding destinations in close proximity, such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. From its tranquil gardens, Mount Meru and its slopes covered by dense, fertile forest can be viewed in the distance. Set amidst manicured lawns and tropical garden foliage, the quaint and becoming wood and tiled A-frame lodge consists of 6 spacious split level cottages, each with a lounge and private veranda. In addition, there is a 2 bedroomed cottage with a lounge, kitchen and dining room and 2 further comfortable rooms in The Old Farmhouse. Each enjoys elegantly appointed ensuite bathrooms with both bath and shower and breathtaking garden or mountain views. The décor is warm yet elegant, from the chocolate brown leather, African masks and patterned lamps to the polished wood furniture, paneled ceilings and four-poster beds.
For additional indulgence, the Legendary Spa provides treatments in the privacy of your cottage, whilst the dining room serves excellent gourmet cuisine. Every meal is prepared to the guest’s satisfaction at �lexible times. The surrounding area offers various activities from a nearby gym to shopping in the city and of course coffee tours are available for the curious and those with a taste for the delectable hot beverage. Further a�ield, the opportunity for a day trip leads to the nearby Arusha National Park, where magni�icent wildlife may be witnessed from the back of an open air vehicle. Leopard, spotted hyena, herds of giraffe and buffalo, this is a unique highlight after a quiet suburban day.
“The perfect
A F R I C A N S A N C T UA RY
f r o m w h i c h t o v e n t u r e .”
S E R E N G ET I
SO UTH+EAST
Here in the south of the Serengeti, wildebeest congregate to give birth to their young. The predator action d u r i n g t h i s s e a s o n i s i n e v i t a b l y s p e c t a c u l a r, w i t h a n a b u n d a n c e o f c h e e t a h , h y e n a a n d w i l d d o g t o b e s e e n .
The landscape, originally formed by volcanic activity, has been sculpted further by climatic elements and in the south-east rise the great volcanic craters of the Ngorongoro highlands. On the periphery protrudes the Mountain of God, known to the local Maasai as Ol doinyo Lengai, an impressive active volcano (last erupting in 2009) and Tanzania’s third highest peak.
The South-central region of the Serengeti, between Seronera and Ndutu, is epic from January to May. It is here that the wildebeest movement comes into being and where this annual circumambulation ultimately ends. It is the place of conception following frenzied bouts of territorial conquests and mating and on these same short grass plains some 8 months later, the place of replenishment - a brief population explosion that calves around 8,000 ungulates daily, before their quest begins again.
The Serengeti offers arguably the most scintillating game drives in Africa, even when the migration is quiet, great herds of elephant, buffalo, eland, topi, kongoni, impala, giraffe and gazelle tempt opportunistic lion prides, prowling cheetah, hyena, jackal and the more calculating solitary leopard. This liberating golden expanse stretches eastwards into the Loliondo concession transforming into belts of thick acacia woodland, rich riverine forest, granite kopjes and wooded hills, framed dramatically by the distant Gol Mountains.
Although safari activities, especially walks, remain excellent in this area, the focus shifts slightly towards cultural interaction and the 6 vibrant Maasai communities that inhabit the area, offering a chance for visitors to spend time with their Maasai counterparts and glimpse at how life is lived in Africa. Within the context of splendid sunsets and awe-inspiring landscapes, the Serengeti presents an explicit illustration of the instinctual cycle of life; where the spectacle of predator versus prey dominates. Lake Vict oria
S ER ENGET I N. P Ngor o Ngor o
Lake Manyara N.P Lake Tang anyika
Kiliman jaro N.P Arusha Taran g ire N.P
Mahale Mount ains Kat avi N.P
Zanz i bar
Ruah a N.P
Selous G .R
Lake Nyasa
NA M IRI
PLAI NS
Fo r 2 0 ye a r s , t h e g ra s s l a n d s o f t h e E a s te r n S e re n g e t i we re c l o s e d to to u r i s t s to a l l ow t h e c h e e t a h p o p u l a t i o n t o r e p l e n i s h i t s e l f . To d a y, t h i s i s b i g - c a t t e r r i t o r y and undoubtedly offers East Africa’s best cheetah viewing opportunities. Namiri Plains is a relatively new property set in the remote eastern corner of the Serengeti where the southern short grass meets the acacia woodland. The Ngare Nanyuki underground river creates pockets of permanent water that support year-round game concentrations like big cats and accompanying carnivores. The plains are dotted with dramatic rocky outcrops and the sunrises over the magni�icent Barafu Kopjes to the east of the camp, never fail to impress. Namiri Plains camp was created for real safari enthusiasts wanting a high level of comfort in secluded surroundings and a deeper more intense wildlife experience. Tucked away in a corner of fever trees, this small and exclusive camp has terri�ic views over the endless sweeping plains that surround it. The standard of comfort you enjoy at Namiri Plains is nothing short of luxurious. The 8 traditional safari tents offer crisp linen, spacious verandas ensuite bathrooms
and super soaking bucket showers, snug beds and a well-stocked bar. All one could wish for.
You can expect the kind of cooking that when enjoyed under a glittering canopy of African stars, will remain with you forever. Explore the Namiri plains on daily game drives and enjoy alfresco breakfast picnics on top of Soil Le Motonyi rock or sundowners on top of a kopje.
“Expansive views, serious comfort,
exceptional privacy and U N R I VA L L E D s i g h t i n g s .”
S E R E NG ET I
NO RT H +W E ST
I n t h e n o r t h e r n r e a c h e s o f Ta n z a n i a , r i g h t o n t h e b o r d e r w i t h K e n y a , l i e s o n e o f t h e w o r l d ’ s m o s t well-known conservation areas, the Serengeti National Park and ecosystem.
The Serengeti is a world heritage site and home to an unimaginable variety of �lora and fauna. It is deservedly one of the world’s great natural wonders. Here, endless grasslands stretch from horizon to horizon, interrupted in places by acacia woodlands, huge granite outcrops known as kopjes, tree-lined rivers, and in the very north, rolling hills and hidden valleys. In the west, where the Serengeti stretches towards Lake Victoria, lies Grumeti and in the very north, where Tanzania and Kenya meet, sits Lamai – both extraordinary parts of remarkable landscape that offer truly special sightings.
The great number of wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, giraffe, eland, topi, kongoni and impala support large prides of lion, as well as hyena, cheetah and leopard not to mention the crocodiles that invest the rivers. Each year, during the dry season, these mighty herds exhaust the grazing in the southern areas of the ecosystem and migrate west and north in search of food. This leads them across the Grumeti River and if successful, across the Mara River in the Lamai area both of which are home to large numbers of crocodile. What greater experience for the wildlife enthusiast than to see literally thousands of animals braving a crossing where predators wait in anticipation.
It would be a mistake however, to think that the migration is the only attraction offered by the Serengeti, more than 500 bird species inhabit the area, while mighty predators go about their business regardless of the migration – an incredible spectacle whatever the season. Activities in this astounding wildlife paradise include guided walks, bush dining and game drives, all set against the backdrop of possibly the most classic of African portraits. Lake Vict oria
S ER ENGET I N. P Ngor o Ngor o
Lake Manyara N.P Lake Tang anyika
Kiliman jaro N.P Arusha Taran g ire N.P
Mahale Mount ains Kat avi N.P
Zanz i bar
Ruah a N.P
Selous G .R
Lake Nyasa
S AYA R I
Swahili for universe or planet,
Sayari Camp encapsulates the majesty of the Serengeti’s extensive plains in its name. Situated in Northern Serengeti within the heart of Northern Tanzania, the undulating terrain is marked by acacia woodlands, vast grass plains and the �lowing waters of the Mara River on its journey from the Kenyan Highlands.
There are 15 luxury tan-coloured canvas tents are dotted across the grassland, scattered with thorn trees providing dappled shade. Within the palatial tents, dark wooden decking, cream canvassed walls and woven grass baskets provide an atmosphere of base serenity. Incredible views of the plains and passing giraffe may be taken in from either the decadent �loating bath in the ensuite bathroom or from the private veranda. The main camp hosts a bar, library and vast lounge area with sleek �inishes, carved wood and rounded grass furniture, whilst the cool waters of the in�inity pool and the luxurious spa facility are available for revitalisation. Dining is an elegant affair, the excellent cuisine enjoyed indoors or alfresco to the cacophonous calls of hyena.
Whether by foot or open game vehicle, the land offers year round bird and animal viewing, including high predator activity with hyena, lion, cheetah and leopard as well as herds of buffalo, the lumbering forms of elephant, black rhino and various antelope. A highlight at Sayari includes partaking in a lavish bush breakfast whilst viewing the wonder of the Great Migration in season. Of the 1 million wildebeest, thousands may be viewed crossing the Mara River, each leaping to avoid the awaiting jaws of keen crocodiles – a true sight to behold.
“Surrounded by a
veritable vista of
Ta n z a n i a n M A J E S T Y, Sayari offers
the ultimate luxurious
t e n t e d c a m p e x p e r i e n c e .”
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
L A I K I P I A
I n t h e c e n t r a l h i g h l a n d s o f K e n y a , s t r e t c h i n g f r o m M o u n t K e n y a i n t h e e a s t t o t h e R i f t Va l l e y i n t h e w e s t is a 2.149 million acre area of semi-arid grassland and bush savannah known as the Laikipia Plateau.
This region serves as a portal to Kenya’s remote and wild, Northern Frontier and is a patchwork of cattle ranches and tribal lands that have been amalgamated under the umbrella of eco-tourism.
The Laikipia Wildlife Forum promotes this collaboration and is an incredible example of successful conservation whereby ranchers and pastoralists encourage the practical co-existance of people, livestock and wildlife. The desire to truly understand all the inhabitants of this natural environment is illustrated in the large number of research and community conservation projects within the area. Straddling the Equator at altitudes of between 5,000 and 8,000 feet, this secluded part of Africa is incredibly scenic, comprising of magni�icent escarpments which descend into open grasslands, basalt hills, lonely kopjes and riverine forest, fed by rivers sourced on the slopes of Mount Kenya. This diversity attracts considerable animal numbers and is home to the highest number of endangered species in East Africa. Half the population of black rhino, Kenya’s second largest elephant population, the fastest growing wild dog population on the
continent and the globally threatened Grevy’s zebra have all found their home in Laikipia. This is a unique and fascinating wildlife experience when adding the animals that occur solely in central and northern Kenya, such as the reticulated giraffe, Jackson’s hartebeest, gerenuk and Somali ostrich. With such an array of plains game come the predators and Laikipia is home to signi�icant numbers of lion, cheetah and the ever elusive leopard.
Lake Turkana
LAIKIPIA Lake Victoria
Mt. Kenya N.P
Masai Mara
Nairobi Amboseli N.P
Kilimanjaro N.P
Ts a v o N.P
L A R A G A I
Laragai is an anomaly - a beautiful, private home on 32,000 acres in the game-rich, Kenyan Highlands with rare, truly wild luxuries.
Located on the vastness of the Laikipia plateau looking out over the plains towards Mount Kenya, Laragai is located within a private sanctuary that offers world-class wildlife, adventure and wellness facilities in surroundings of exceptional beauty and serenity. Laragai House is situated on Borana Ranch, a 35,000-acre wildlife rich, private, working cattle ranch, 16 miles from the equator, adjacent to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. It is built on the Mokogodo Escarpment overlooking the Northern Frontier. Over 300 species of birds and a wide diversity of wildlife inhabit this area. In its time this extraordinary house was the most opulent in Laikipia. Antiques were brought over from Ireland, china from London and furniture from Rajasthan. Today Laragai’s new owners have spared no effort in re-creating its former glory and the result is a wonderful tapestry of styles and textures, describing the property’s history whilst providing the most elegant luxury which gives Laragai its utterly unique feel.
Borana Ranch offers some of the most thrilling, authentic and unique ways to encounter Kenya’s wildlife and wilderness thanks to our conservation efforts. The conservancy strives to retain this land as pristine wilderness that guests are able to enjoy �irst hand, be it walking through the bush, riding on ranch horses or mountain bikes, driving in the open-top safari vehicles, or lounging at the in�inity pool and enjoying the view. Since Borana is a private property, there is guaranteed exclusivity, making every aspect of the safari experience personal, peaceful and uninterrupted - giving guests the rare opportunity to be totally immersed in nature.
“The climate,
c l e a n a i r, a n d o r g a n i c food make incredible foundations for a trip that will
t r u l y R E S T O R E y o u .”
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.
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
S A R A R A
T R E E
C A M P
T h e S a r a r a T r e e h o u s e s e n c o m p a s s t h e s a m e a t m o s p h e r e a n d v i b r a n c y t h a t S a r a r a h a s b e c o m e r e n o w n e d f o r. N e s t l e d i n t o a f o r e s t g l a d e w i t h i n a n h o u r s w a l k o f S a r a r a , t h e t r e e h o u s e s e m e r g e o u t o f t h e f o r e s t c a n o p y. The Sarara Treehouses are the perfect blend of traditional safari camp and modern day adventure. Offering all of the modern day luxuries alongside the charm and atmosphere of an old explorer camp.
Suspended up into the forest canopy, the 8 ensuite tents and a family unit have spanning views over the conservancy and beyond. Elephants browse beneath you in what has become a safe sanctuary for wildlife.
A main mess area and swimming pool overlooks a Sarara camp style waterhole, whilst commanding incredible views of Mount Uarges, 1 of 7 sacred mountains to the Samburu. This off the grid, solar powered masterpiece is entirely eco friendly, with every precaution and expense taken to preserve the natural habitat surrounding it.
There is no shortage of things to do here, from magni�icent forest hikes, walking with warriors, cultural interactions, game drives, scenic �lights, rock pool swimming (time of year dependant) bush meals to �ly camping and horse riding. The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary takes in orphaned and abandoned elephant calves with an aim to release them back into the wild herds adjoining the Sanctuary. Visiting the sanctuary is a life changing experience.
Elephant, buffalo, leopard, bushbuck and a wide array of other life roams beneath you on the forest �loor, offering incredible wildlife experiences from the comfort of your beautifully appointed tree tent.
“A r e m o t e a n d s p i r i t u a l c a m p i n g e x p e r i e n c e . . .”
R E T E T I
S A N C T U A R Y
The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is situated in the remote Mathews Range, among Kenya's second largest elephant population.
Reteti lies within a 975,000 acre swath of thorny scrubland in northern Kenya known as the Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust—part of the ancestral homeland of the Samburu people. It is the �irst community owned elephant orphanage in Africa, of�icially opened in 2016. It takes in orphaned and abandoned elephant calves with an aim to release them back into the wild herds adjoining the Sanctuary. The region includes the Turkana, Rendille, Borana, and Somali, as well as the Samburu—ethnic groups that have fought to the death over the land and its resources. Now they’re working together to strengthen their communities and protect the estimated 6,000 elephants they live, sometimes uneasily, alongside. The need for elephant orphanages like Reteti is a sad result of the decimation of herds by ivory poachers in recent decades, a pattern playing out widely in sub-Saharan Africa. Other causes for an orphaned or abandoned elephant include man made wells, drought, human-wildlife con�lict and natural mortality.
It is estimated between 5 and 10 elephant calves are rescued in North Kenya each year. The Sanctuary was established in response to demands from the local community, who recognise wildlife as an opportunity to improve livelihoods.
The elephant keepers all recruited from within the Conservancy, have perfected the skill of returning lost calves back to their family herds. The primary aim of the Sanctuary is to not hand raise any individuals – with elephants only being taken into care as a last resort. Feeding is a big part of the day’s work for the handlers. Half-gallon-size bottles of special formula are given every 3 hours around the clock, and drinking is a noisy, slurpy affair. Afterward the elephants fall into a deep stupor. By visiting the sanctuary you are helping these iconic animals and the communities that care for them.
“ Wa r r i o r s w h o o n c e fe a re d
e l e p h a n t s , n o w p r o t e c t t h e m .”
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.
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.”
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.
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
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