Resting in the magnificent Great Rift Valley and presided over by the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya is characterised by hauntingly beautiful natural landscapes of forested hills, patchwork farms, wooded savanna and vast forests brimming with an extraordinary abundance of wildlife. The nation’s diverse range of traditional African cultures is influenced by over 70 unique ethnic groups from the Maasai, Samburu, Kikuyu, and Turkana tribes to the Arabs and Indians that settled on the coast. Add to this: an exquisite tropical coastline fringed with breathtaking golden sand beaches; gorgeous coral gardens providing excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities; and a slew of lively beach resorts, and it is easy to see why so many visitors flock here from around the world to experience a truly unique African adventure in one of the world’s most pristine safari destinations.
The Masai Mara is rightly one of the most famous wildlife areas in the world. It forms the northern part of the great Serengeti-Mara ecosystem which is home to the wildebeest migration.
The great herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelope that follow the rains usually moved into the Mara as early as June and typically depart in early October. The exact timing is a mystery to all! At this time the incredible river crossings may be witnessed where the animals in search of grazing have to face the dangers of the water itself and the huge Nile crocodiles that lie in wait.
But the Mara is a year round safari destination with resident predators big and small as well as a range of resident antelope, hippo and elephants. A small population of the endangered Black Rhino also persists and lucky visitors may see one. Fantastic birding is to be had with high diversity found in the different habitats of the Mara. Large birds of prey are a big feature of this landscape. The Maasai people call this area home and at many camps you will meet them. Visits to Maasai bomas to experience the culture are popular too.
One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.
Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit her! With a bustling harbour, world-class beaches, vineyards and restaurants as its main attractions, the city has something for everyone. Add to this the mountainous landscape brimming with diverse flora and fauna, vibrant townships, a modern art scene and all manner of city tours and you have a world class destination.
The city has a rich cultural history encompassing early man, European sailors and slaves from the East to mention a few. It is nestled in a bowl on the footslopes of the iconic Table Mountain and tapers off into the cold Atlantic waters of Table Bay. There is vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, superb outdoor spaces and some extraordinary architecture within Museums, private homes and many hotels.
For naturalists the attractions are numerous from the mega-diverse fynbos plant kingdom to Great White Sharks, the handose Bontebok antelope and hoardes of seabirds.
Star attractions: Peregrine Falcon, Cape Siskin, Klipspringer, Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird, Black Girdled Lizard, Cape Rockjumper & Victorin's Warbler (these two not on the peninsula), Bontebok and the ever-elusive Cape Leopard
Set against a majestic mountain backdrop and the vivid blue of the sea, the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a five-star eco-paradise showcasing the incredible flora and marine life of the southern tip of Africa. Home to the "Marine Big 5" - whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins - and boasting unparalleled floral diversity, Grootbos offers a luxurious African experience. With over 750 plant species, including rare fynbos and the world's largest Milkwood Forests, it provides a luxuriant backdrop where families can explore caves, go horseback riding, hike scenic trails, indulge in shark cage diving, and enjoy whale watching. Expert guides lead flower safaris, hikes through forests, 4x4 trails, birding, and more.
