Gorilla Trekking and East Africa Safari

Game drives are a fantastic way to see Tarangire. This park is second only to the Serengeti in its concentration of wildlife and is well known for big herds of buffalo, elephant that stand picturesquely beneath the spreading branches of baobabs and prides of lazy lion sprawled in the shade of acacia scrub. The muted colours of Africa are frequently lit up by the bright reds and yellows of barbets, starlings and bee-eaters; there are over 550 species of birds here. Sometimes we'll take advantage of our freedom to venture out at night for this is when elusive creatures also choose to softly tread the trails. Few things are more exhilarating than catching a glimpse of the patterned flank of a leopard as it slinks through the grass beside our car.

You will wake in the cool of the early morning and walk straight out of camp to discover evidence of the night's activities along the course of the Tarangire River. There's something very special about placing one's own foot within the print of an elephant, or kneeling to cradle the nest of a praying mantis, glistening with dew. It's the sort of rare freedom that we seldom enjoy in our busy lives.

After dark the bush changes and you have a chance to meet some of our nocturnal neighbours. Genets, civets, porcupines and bush babies are often seen, and if you're lucky you might even catch the big chaps out on a hunt as lions and leopards head off on the prowl.

Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive hours for game drives and our safari customised 4WD vehicles give everyone a perfect view. Watching wildlife at close range, but without encroaching on their space, is endlessly fascinating and our guides’ instincts and experience provide superb photo opportunities of wild animals. Picnic breakfasts, lunches and sundowner drinks are popular options to include on game drives

A different perspective is gained through escorted walks on the savannah. Our interpretive guides will point out the spoor of a leopard, the nest of a rare bird or signs of recent migration activity that would pass unnoticed by the eyes of strangers… Walks are included in our tariff.

Kicheche Camps offers escorted walking safaris with overnight stays in a fly-camp in the bush. These excursions are led by one of Kicheche’s senior guides and an armed ranger. It is an outstanding opportunity to see the Mara from a completely different perspective and also offers some welcome exercise whilst on safari.

Camp walks - camp exploratory walks are done within the camp’s perimeter for children under 12 yrs.

Tracking - identification of animal footprints and spoor, bones, plants and leaves.

Archery - making bows and arrows and learning to shoot.

Spear Launching - learn to throw a spear.

Fire making - learn to start a fire without matches.

Game drive with kids - observe and learn about wildlife in their natural habitat while accompanied by our expert guides. It is a fun educational experience and leaves a lasting impression.

Bush Walks - suitable for 12+yrs - these are escorted nature walks just outside our camps to explore the close-range micro-universe first-hand.

Learn Maasai beadwork process while being guided by Maasai women to create your own piece. You will learn more about their culture, as well as the symbolism and social significance of this craft, providing a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.

Kicheche Community Trust supports local schools, medical clinic and Discovery Centre. When schools are open it is possible to pay a visit to the schools – Aitong Primary & Secondary and Olkimitare Secondary. Any educational gifts or donations towards academic material are an enormous help.

Guests can visit one of the local Maasai villages to see first-hand their way of life. A village guide or your Kicheche guide will give you an interpretive talk during your visit. There is sometimes dancing and traditional souvenirs are on sale. There is a charge of $30 per person. It is possible to visit Talek town or a number of projects supported by our Community Trust. (One can visit all)

Visit MEP to receive an overview of the Project and its monitoring, human wildlife conflict and anti-poaching programmes. Staff will explain the GPS satellite tracking system and if some of the MEP’s collared elephants are within reasonable proximity of the headquarters there will be an opportunity to track them.

Bookable in advance at $100 per person donation. (Min 2 pax, children under 12 free).

Duration 2-3 hours.

This is a popular excursion in the Masai Mara. Balloons take off early each morning at sunrise and glide over the plains for approximately an hour before landing. Upon touchdown a champagne breakfast is set up before you. The excursion finishes with a game drive back to camp. Price is around US$505 per person and trips can be booked through your tour operator or with the balloon operator.