anderson-and-harvey

The light that changes everything

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Viewing East Africa through a lens and how to do it!

There are places in the world that are merely beautiful, and there are places that seem to exist in a state of permanent, almost aggressive photographic perfection. East Africa is firmly in the second category. Anyone who has ever raised a camera in the Serengeti at first light, or watched a mountain gorilla regard them with an expression of ancient, unhurried intelligence through a viewfinder in the forests of Rwanda, will tell you that no amount of photographic experience entirely prepares you for what this part of the world does to your eyes!

It's not simply the wildlife, extraordinary as it is. It's the light. East Africa sits astride the equator in a way that produces a quality of illumination at the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon that photographers travel to the other side of the world specifically to find.

The low angle, the warmth, the way it catches dust and backlit grass and the flank of a lion and turns the whole scene into something that looks less like a photograph and more like a painting by someone with an implausible amount of talent. Professional wildlife photographers return to the northern circuit of Tanzania year after year not because they haven't already taken extraordinary images there, but because the light is different every single time and it's always worth coming back for.

The open terrain of the northern circuit is, from a purely technical standpoint, one of the finest photographic environments on earth. The short grass plains of the Serengeti and the Ndutu ecosystem offer unobstructed sightlines across vast distances, allowing for the kind of wide, contextual images that place animals within their landscape rather than isolating them against a blurred background.

The Ngorongoro Crater, with its contained ecosystem and extraordinary density of wildlife, offers something different again. A natural amphitheatre in which every game drive delivers sightings at close range and in beautiful, varied light depending on where you are on the crater floor and what time of day you're shooting.

Tarangire, with its ancient baobabs, its river valley and the extraordinary elephant concentrations of the dry season, offers a more textured, more intimate photographic experience, where the landscape itself is as compelling a subject as the animals moving through it.

The gorilla encounter

Then there is Rwanda and Uganda, and the singular, irreplaceable experience of photographing mountain gorillas in the wild. No telephoto lens required and no distance to manage, just you, at remarkably close quarters, with one of our closest relatives going about its morning in the misty forests of the Virunga volcanoes or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, apparently entirely unbothered by your presence.

The photographic challenge here is not finding the subject but managing the low light of the forest interior, the dappled, shifting quality of illumination filtering through the canopy, and the sheer emotional intensity of the encounter, which has a tendency to make even experienced photographers momentarily forget what they're supposed to be doing with their camera.

Gorilla photography rewards patience and a certain stillness. The trackers and guides who lead these treks have an intimate understanding of each habituated group's habits and preferred locations, and time spent quietly observing before raising the camera invariably produces better images than the instinct to shoot everything immediately. The gorillas, for their part, are magnificently indifferent to the whole process, which is exactly what you want.

Kenya's magnificent cast

Kenya adds its own remarkable chapter to the East African photography story. The Masai Mara, particularly during the river crossing season, offers the kind of dramatic, large-scale wildlife spectacle that fills double-page spreads in the world's great natural history magazines.

The crossings are unpredictable, explosive and over quickly, which makes them both thrilling and technically demanding, a combination that suits photographers who like to earn their images. The resident big cat population of the Mara is exceptional year-round, with lions, cheetahs and leopards all present in numbers that make sustained, behavioural photography entirely achievable across multiple game drives.

Amboseli, with Kilimanjaro rising above the plains on a clear morning and elephant herds moving through the dust beneath it, offers one of the iconic photographic compositions in Africa. The kind of image that looks almost too good to be real until you're standing in front of it with a camera in your hands and realising, with considerable pleasure, that it looks exactly like that.

The guide makes the difference

Across all of these destinations, the single factor that most consistently determines the quality of a photography safari is the guide. A great safari guide with a genuine understanding of animal behaviour, of light and positioning, of when to stay and when to move on, is worth more to a serious photographer than any piece of equipment they could bring with them.

Our guides on Tanzania's northern circuit have spent years working with photography-focused guests and have developed an almost intuitive sense of how a sighting is going to develop, positioning the vehicle to make the most of the available light and the likely direction of movement in ways that seem effortless but represent years of accumulated knowledge.

Anderson & Harvey's customised safari vehicles feature pop-up roofs that offer photographers the elevated, unobstructed shooting position that serious wildlife photography demands, combined with the stability that long lens work requires and the kind of unhurried, flexible approach to game drives that allows photographers to stay with a sighting for as long as it's worth staying.

Beyond the big moments

It would be easy to write about East African photography exclusively in terms of its headline spectacles. The Migration crossings, the gorilla encounters, the Kilimanjaro sunrise. But some of the most extraordinary images that come out of this part of the world are the quieter ones.

A hamerkop landing on a termite mound in the afternoon light... The texture of an elephant's skin at close range... The expression on the face of a young lion cub regarding the world with a mixture of curiosity and mild suspicion... The Maasai elder walking his cattle across a plain that stretches to the horizon... The possibilities are endless.

East Africa rewards the photographer who looks as well as shoots, who understands that the best images are often the ones that weren't planned, that emerged from simply being present in one of the most visually extraordinary places on earth with enough patience and enough humility to let the light do what it does.

Talk to the Anderson & Harvey team about building a photography-focused itinerary on Tanzania's northern circuit, with extensions into Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda for the full East African photographic experience.

The evolution of the luxury safari

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:24:54 GMT

How the bush became one of the most sophisticated hospitality environments on earth

There was a time, not so very long ago, when roughing it was simply part of the deal. You went on safari, you slept under canvas, you ate whatever the camp cook produced on a gas ring and you were profoundly grateful for the experience regardless of the thread count of your sheets, largely because there weren't any. The wildlife was extraordinary, the landscape was humbling and the discomfort was quietly considered part of the adventure. Nobody complained. You'd come to Africa, after all... So, what's changed?

That version of safari still exists in the imagination of a certain kind of traveller, and there's something genuinely appealing about the romance of it. But the reality of what luxury safari accommodation has become in the intervening decades is something so far removed from that original template that the two barely share a vocabulary, let alone a standard of living.

From canvas to extraordinary

The tented camp remains the defining architectural statement of the East African safari, and the finest examples of the form today are studies in the art of making something feel simultaneously wild and deeply, almost indecently comfortable. The canvas is still there, but it's stretched over frames that enclose spaces of genuine grandeur, with hardwood floors, four-poster beds dressed in the finest linen, outdoor showers open to the sky and private plunge pools that catch the late afternoon light in ways that no interior designer could entirely take credit for. The bush does that bit for free.

What's changed most profoundly is the understanding that luxury in the wilderness is defined not by the importation of urban comforts but by the quality of the experience of being precisely where you are. The best camps in Tanzania's northern circuit have grasped this with impressive sophistication. They're not trying to replicate a five-star city hotel in the Serengeti. They're trying to create something that could only exist here, in this landscape, under these stars, with those sounds drifting in on the night air. That's a fundamentally different and considerably more interesting design brief, and the results, when it's done well, are remarkable.

The sustainability shift

If there's a single development that has most meaningfully changed the character of luxury safari hospitality over the past decade, it's the mainstreaming of genuine sustainability. Not sustainability as a marketing footnote or a page on the website about solar panels and recycling, but sustainability as the central organising principle of how a camp is built, staffed, supplied and operated.

The shift has been driven partly by guest expectation and partly by the straightforward logic that a camp which depletes its environment is a camp with no future. The most progressive properties on the northern circuit are now community-owned or community-partnered, powered entirely by renewable energy, built from locally sourced materials with minimal ecological footprint and staffed almost entirely by people from the surrounding areas.

The economic benefits flow directly into the communities whose land the wildlife depends on, which creates a conservation incentive that no amount of external funding can replicate as effectively. It's an elegant system when it works, and increasingly it does.

For travel professionals building itineraries for discerning clients, this matters. The conversation around sustainability has moved well past the point where it's sufficient to mention it in passing. Clients want to know that their presence in a place contributes to it in meaningful ways, and the camps that can tell that story with honesty and specificity are the ones that attract the most engaged, most loyal and frankly most enjoyable guests.

Food as a defining experience

The culinary evolution of the safari camp deserves its own moment of appreciation, because it's been quietly extraordinary. The gas ring and the grateful attitude are long gone. In their place, a generation of safari chefs has emerged who understand that feeding guests in the wilderness is one of the great theatrical opportunities in hospitality, and they've risen to it with considerable flair.

Bush breakfasts laid out on a kopje as the sun burns the mist off the Serengeti. Long, unhurried lunches back at camp as the heat builds and the lions sleep. Dinner tables set in a dry riverbed under a sky so full of stars it seems almost implausible, with candles and crystal and the distant sound of a hyena to remind you that you are, despite all appearances, very much in the wild. The food itself draws increasingly on local ingredients and culinary traditions, with Tanzanian flavours finding their way onto menus that would hold their own in any serious restaurant in any city in the world.

What the most discerning travellers want now

The profile of the luxury safari guest has shifted considerably, and the camps and operators who've noticed are the ones thriving. Today's most discerning safari traveller is frequently well-travelled, environmentally conscious, intellectually curious and entirely unimpressed by luxury for its own sake. They're not coming to East Africa to be pampered in a generic sense. They're coming for experiences that are genuinely irreplaceable, for knowledge that changes how they see the world, for encounters with the natural order that put their own lives in useful perspective.

This means that the guide has never been more important. Not as a driver or a spotter, but as an interpreter, a storyteller, a person of deep knowledge and genuine passion whose understanding of the ecosystem transforms a game drive from an exercise in wildlife spotting into something approaching a philosophical experience. The camps that invest in their guides, that give them the autonomy and the resources to do their jobs at the highest level, are the ones whose guests come home changed rather than merely satisfied.

It also means that the most coveted safari experiences right now are the ones that feel intimate, unhurried and genuinely connected to the place they're in. Smaller camps. Longer stays. Fewer activities, done more deeply. The era of the whirlwind five-camp-in-seven-days itinerary still has its market, but the leading edge of luxury safari travel is moving in a quieter, more considered direction, and the northern circuit of Tanzania, with its extraordinary range of landscapes, ecosystems and camp styles, is exceptionally well placed to meet it.

The bush has always been extraordinary. It's just never been quite so good at looking after you while you're in it.

Talk to the Anderson & Harvey team about the camps and experiences on Tanzania's northern circuit that are genuinely leading the evolution.

Stone Town first!

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 07:10:47 GMT

Why Zanzibar's ancient heart deserves far more than a day

Most travellers arrive in Zanzibar with their eyes already on the horizon. The beach is the destination, the resort is the reward, and Stone Town, if it features at all, is a half-day detour between the airport and the coast sold as a pleasant interlude of carved doors and market stalls before the real business of doing nothing begins. It's an entirely understandable approach, and it misses the point of Zanzibar almost completely.

Stone Town is not a warm-up act. It's one of the most layered, atmospheric and genuinely fascinating small cities in Africa, a place where more than a thousand years of Indian Ocean history have accumulated into something so dense with story, texture and sensory detail that a few hours barely scratches the surface.

To give it a couple of days, on the other hand, is to arrive in Zanzibar already changed by it, richer in understanding, deeper in appreciation, and far better prepared to simply be still on a beach when the time comes. Stone Town earns the beach. And the beach, experienced after Stone Town, feels like a gift rather than a given.

A city built by the ocean

Stone Town's character was formed by the sea and by the extraordinary web of trade routes that crossed the Indian Ocean for centuries before the modern world imposed its own geometry on the map. Arab merchants from Oman established a sultanate here in the seventeenth century that would grow into one of the most powerful and prosperous trading empires in the region. Indian merchants followed, bringing their own architectural traditions, commercial acumen and culinary heritage.

Persian, Portuguese and eventually British influences added further layers. The Swahili culture that holds all of this together is itself a synthesis, a language, a cuisine, a way of life that emerged from centuries of exchange and that exists nowhere quite as fully as it does here.

What makes Stone Town remarkable is that this history didn't get tidied away or replaced. It accumulated, layer by layer, and it's still visible in almost everything you look at. The city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, not as a preservation exercise but as a recognition of something that had already survived largely intact , a living urban environment whose architecture, street pattern and cultural life still reflect the world that built it.

The architecture of encounter

The buildings of Stone Town are a conversation between civilisations, and learning to read them is one of the great pleasures of spending time here. The most immediately striking element is the doors. Zanzibar's carved wooden doors are among the finest examples of decorative craftsmanship in East Africa, and they repay close attention. The Omani Arab tradition favoured heavy, rectangular doors with elaborate geometric carving and large brass studs, originally intended to discourage elephants, a detail that says something rather wonderful about the ambitions of the merchants who commissioned them.

The Indian tradition brought a different aesthetic, with more ornate floral carving, arched fanlights and the kind of exuberant surface decoration that speaks of prosperity worn openly and with pleasure. Many of the finest doors in Stone Town represent a hybrid of both traditions, the result of craftsmen working across cultural boundaries with evident enjoyment.

Beyond the doors, the buildings themselves tell their stories in coral stone and lime plaster, in latticed balconies designed to catch the ocean breeze, in cool interior courtyards where the noise of the street drops away and the light falls in long, quiet shafts. The Palace Museum, formerly the Sultan's palace, offers a formal introduction to the city's Omani period.

The House of Wonders, Zanzibar's largest and most ornate historic building, was the first structure on the island to have electricity and a lift, two facts that feel entirely characteristic of a city that was always reaching towards the future while remaining deeply anchored in its past.

The weight of history

No honest account of Stone Town can sidestep the darker chapter that sits at its centre. For much of the 19th century, Zanzibar was the largest slave trading port on the East African coast, a place through which hundreds of thousands of people passed in conditions of almost unimaginable suffering on their way to markets across the Arab world and beyond.

The Anglican Cathedral, built by the Universities' Mission to Central Africa in 1873 and consecrated in the same year that the slave trade was formally abolished in Zanzibar, stands directly on the site of the island's main slave market. The altar is positioned where the whipping post once stood. Beneath the cathedral, the original slave chambers have been preserved, small, airless rooms where people were held before sale, and visiting them is an experience that stays with you long after you've left.

This history is not comfortable, and it's not meant to be. But engaging with it honestly is part of what makes time in Stone Town meaningful rather than merely picturesque, and it's one of the reasons the city rewards travellers who come with genuine curiosity rather than just a camera.

A city that feeds you extraordinarily well

Zanzibar's food is one of its great and still somewhat undersung pleasures, and Stone Town is where it's at its most varied, most vibrant and most exciting. The culinary heritage here draws on the same extraordinary range of influences that shaped everything else about the city from its Arab spicing and Indian technique to the African ingredients and the incomparable bounty of the Indian Ocean. The results are deeply satisfying in a way that feels both exotic and deeply familiar at the same time.

The Forodhani Gardens night market on the waterfront is the most famous expression of this food culture, and it fully deserves its reputation. As darkness falls and the fairy lights come on along the seafront, the market transforms into a wonderfully convivial gathering of food stalls, grilling seafood, local vendors and an entirely unpretentious atmosphere that feels genuinely alive rather than performed for tourists.

Zanzibar pizza has to be tried. It's a street food creation involving a thin dough parcel filled with meat, egg, vegetables and cheese and cooked on a griddle and is one of those things that sounds improbable and tastes magnificent. The grilled octopus, the sugarcane juice, the spiced mishkaki skewers, all eaten at a plastic table with the warm night air and the sound of the ocean nearby, constitutes one of the most enjoyable meals you can have in East Africa.

Beyond Forodhani, Stone Town's restaurant scene has matured considerably in recent years. A number of beautifully restored historic buildings now house restaurants that take the island's culinary heritage seriously, serving Swahili cuisine with care and creativity alongside Persian and Indian-influenced dishes that reflect the city's layered past.

Breakfast at a rooftop café, with fresh tropical fruit, spiced coffee and a view over the rooftops to the harbour, is a particular pleasure that sets the tone for a day spent wandering without too fixed an agenda.

Music, rhythm and the sound of the streets

Taarab music is Zanzibar's own, a genre that emerged from the cultural confluence of the Indian Ocean world and that blends Arabic melodic traditions, Indian instrumentation and Swahili poetry into something hauntingly beautiful and entirely distinctive. Hearing it live, in a courtyard or a small venue in Stone Town, is one of those travel experiences that feels genuinely irreplaceable.

The Dhow Countries Music Academy, based in Stone Town, has done remarkable work in preserving and teaching traditional Zanzibar music, and performances there offer an exceptional window into a musical culture that deserves far wider recognition.

The streets themselves have their own rhythm, whether it's the call to prayer threading through the morning air or the clatter of a football game in a narrow alley, the particular sound of a city that is simultaneously very old and very much alive. Stone Town rewards slow mornings and late evenings, the hours when the light is extraordinary and the streets belong more fully to those who live in them.

Then, the beach

After two or three days in Stone Town, the beach arrives not as the point of the trip but as its natural resolution. The transition from the sensory density of the city to the wide, unhurried openness of Zanzibar's coast is one of the most pleasurable gear changes in travel.

The eastern beaches around Matemwe and Paje offer long stretches of white sand and warm, clear water that invite exactly the kind of purposeful inactivity that a week in the Tanzanian bush, followed by a few days of deep urban engagement in Stone Town, has thoroughly earned.

The north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa brings a livelier atmosphere and the advantage of beaches that hold their depth at low tide. For those seeking something more private and more extraordinary still, Mnemba Island, just off the northeastern tip of Zanzibar, offers one of the finest small luxury experiences in the Indian Ocean, with exceptional diving on the surrounding reef and a level of seclusion that feels genuinely restorative.

The beach is wonderful. It always was. It's just considerably more wonderful when you arrive at it knowing what you know, having spent real time in a city that has been one of the Indian Ocean world's most fascinating places for the better part of a thousand years.

Talk to the Anderson & Harvey team about building a Zanzibar experience into your Tanzania itinerary, one that gives Stone Town the time it deserves before the coast takes over entirely.

The soul of the Serengeti

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:23:48 GMT

Why the southern plains tell the Migration's deepest story

Every year, without fail, the images begin to circulate. Wildebeest launching themselves into the Mara River, crocodiles surging through churning brown water, the chaos and the courage of thousands of animals crossing at once. It's one of the most photographed wildlife events on earth, and it deserves every frame devoted to it. But the river crossings account for a few weeks of a migration that never truly stops, and they take place in a relatively small corner of an ecosystem that stretches across some of the most biologically extraordinary landscapes in Africa.

To understand the Great Wildebeest Migration fully, you have to travel south. Far south. To a place where the plains open up into something vast and ancient and quietly breathtaking, and where the real engine of the Migration has been running for longer than human memory reaches. That place is Ndutu, and the story it tells is one that the southern Serengeti has been keeping to itself for far too long. The world may watch the river crossings, but the Ndutu ecosystem holds the secret that keeps the great wildebeest migration alive.

Where the Serengeti meets its origins

The Ndutu region occupies a remarkable piece of geography. Straddling the southwestern corner of the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, it sits at the junction of two of Tanzania's most celebrated wild places, belonging fully to neither and drawing the very best from both. It's a landscape of sweeping short-grass plains, acacia woodlands and seasonal lakes that fill and shimmer with the rains, edged by the distant blue suggestion of the Ngorongoro Highlands on the horizon.

There's a spaciousness here, a quality of light and openness, that feels different from the more famous central and northern Serengeti. The horizon seems further away. The sky seems larger.

Beneath the surface of those plains lies the reason the wildebeest have been returning here for millennia. The soils of the southern Serengeti are among the most mineral-rich in the entire ecosystem, a direct legacy of the volcanic activity that shaped this part of East Africa over millions of years. Ash deposits from ancient eruptions, including those of the Ngorongoro and Olmoti volcanoes, have created a soil chemistry that produces short, dense, extraordinarily nutritious grass.

It's this grass, triggered into growth by the short rains between November and March, that draws the herds south each year with a reliability that feels almost magnetic.

The Migration's most vital chapter

The Great Wildebeest Migration is, at its heart, a year-round pursuit of rainfall and grass across a circuit that covers roughly 1,200 kilometres. The river crossings of the northern Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara, dramatic and unmistakeable as they are, represent one passage in a much longer journey. What unfolds in the southern Serengeti between January and March is, ecologically speaking, the most critical event in the entire cycle. This is where the next generation of the Migration is born.

At the peak of calving season, the herds concentrate on the Ndutu plains in numbers that are genuinely difficult to comprehend. Nearly half a million calves are born across a few extraordinary weeks, the result of a synchronised breeding strategy refined over tens of thousands of years. The timing is precise and purposeful. By flooding the plains with newborns within a compressed window, the wildebeest effectively overwhelm the predator population.

Even the most efficient hunters can only take so many calves, and the sheer abundance of new life ensures that enough survive to sustain the herd. It's one of nature's most elegant survival mechanisms, and it plays out here, on these ancient volcanic plains, every single year.

A landscape alive in every direction

What the southern Serengeti offers during this period goes well beyond the wildebeest themselves. The seasonal lakes of Ndutu and Masek, fed by the rains and fringed with acacia and date palms, become magnets for birdlife of extraordinary variety. Flamingos gather in their thousands on the shallows. African fish eagles call from the treetops. Storks, herons, avocets and a bewildering array of migrant species turn the lake margins into a spectacle of their own.

For birders, this corner of the ecosystem during the green season is among the finest experiences in East Africa.

The predator activity during calving season is, quite simply, exceptional. Lions are everywhere, moving through the herds with a calm authority born of knowing that the odds are firmly in their favour. Cheetahs, which find the open short-grass plains of the south ideally suited to their hunting style, are present in remarkable numbers and are frequently seen in coalition groups or with cubs of their own, the calving season having triggered their own breeding cycle. Leopards patrol the acacia woodlands at the edges of the plains.

Hyena clans are large, vocal and perpetually active. It's a predator-watcher's paradise, and the relatively flat, open terrain means that sightings are long, unobstructed and deeply immersive.

The intimacy that the north can't offer

There's a particular quality to a safari on the southern plains that's worth dwelling on. Because the herds are feeding and calving rather than moving in the relentless, directional way they do during the river crossing season, the pace of game viewing changes entirely.

Guests find themselves in the midst of the wildlife rather than observing it from a distance, with wildebeest grazing around the vehicle, zebras moving through camp at dusk and predators working the edges of the herds with unhurried precision. The experience is immersive in a way that's quite different from the concentrated drama of the northern crossings, and many guests who've witnessed both describe the southern Serengeti as the more affecting of the two.

The camps positioned in and around Ndutu during calving season are among the most atmospherically placed in the entire Serengeti ecosystem. Mobile and semi-permanent tented camps sit directly on the plains, close enough to the herds that the sounds of the Migration form the soundtrack to every morning and evening. Waking before dawn to step outside and find the plains already alive with movement, the air still cool and the light just beginning to touch the horizon, is the kind of moment that stays with a person long after they've come home.

The bigger picture

Perhaps the most valuable thing that the southern Serengeti offers is perspective. To stand on the Ndutu plains during calving season, surrounded by life on a scale that the human mind struggles to fully absorb, is to understand the Migration not as a highlight reel of dramatic crossings but as something continuous, cyclical and deeply rooted in this particular landscape.

The wildebeest don't come here because it's convenient. They come because this ancient, mineral-rich corner of Tanzania has been sustaining them for longer than any of us can imagine, and because the Ndutu plains, in their quiet, generous way, hold the secret to everything that follows.

The river crossings are magnificent. But the soul of the Serengeti lives here, on the southern plains, in the weeks when the grass is green and the calves are finding their feet and the great cycle of life turns once again.

Talk to the Anderson & Harvey team about crafting a southern Serengeti safari that puts your clients at the heart of this extraordinary chapter in the Migration's story.

Uganda - a land of unlimited adventure

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:26:25 GMT

Discover what makes Uganda a great safari destination

Uganda has long been associated with gorilla trekking, but reducing it to a single experience undersells its importance within East Africa. Uganda can stand confidently on its own or add powerful contrast when paired with Kenya or Tanzania. With forest and savannah, primates and plains game, intimacy and scale, Uganda shifts the rhythm of a safari in ways few other countries can...

As a primary destination, Uganda offers depth rather than density. The draw of tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is profound. Gorilla trekking is immersive, emotional and physically engaging. It is not a passive wildlife sighting but a guided encounter that unfolds slowly through forest terrain, culminating in a strictly protected hour with one of the world’s most endangered species. For many travellers, this is not simply a highlight, it's the reason for the journey.

Equally compelling is chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park. Fast-paced and often more dynamic than gorilla encounters, chimp tracking adds energy and behavioural interest to a safari. The forest itself is a destination, being dense, atmospheric and rich with birdlife and smaller primates. Together, gorilla and chimp experiences create a primate-focused journey that feels cohesive and purposeful.

For those who appreciate smaller or less obvious wildlife, Uganda offers a wealth of hidden gems. Secretive antelope species, colourful birds, and elusive nocturnal creatures inhabit both the forests and savannahs. Observing these animals rewards patience and adds a sense of discovery that complements the headline species. This layer of biodiversity ensures that every day in Uganda holds a new opportunity for curiosity and delight.

Yet Uganda’s strength lies in contrast. Within a relatively compact geography, the country transitions from rainforest to open savannah. Queen Elizabeth National Park introduces classic game drives, boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel and expansive crater lakes.

Further north, Murchison Falls National Park combines river-based wildlife viewing with dramatic scenery where the Nile surges through a narrow gorge before spreading across wide plains. These landscapes are visually distinct from East Africa’s better-known savannah ecosystems, offering something refreshingly different without compromising on wildlife experience.

The country’s wetlands and lakes, from Lake Mburo to the sprawling papyrus swamps, provide yet another layer of variation. Here, siting hippos, crocodiles, and waterfowl adds a slower, reflective pace to the safari, allowing travellers to witness ecosystems functioning in quiet harmony. These habitats balance the intensity of forest trekking and savannah drives, demonstrating Uganda’s versatility as a safari destination.

Uganda also works beautifully as a complementary extension. After the open plains of the Serengeti or the Masai Mara, the intimacy of forest trekking provides both physical and emotional contrast. The pace naturally slows. Game drives give way to guided hikes, mist-filled mornings and dense, layered landscapes. This shift in rhythm prevents safari fatigue and adds dimension to a wider East African journey.

The country’s cultural richness enhances the journey further. Encounters with local communities, whether through village visits, guided walks or cultural demonstrations, provide insight into the way people and wildlife coexist. These interactions, respectful and authentic, add texture to a safari experience, connecting travellers to the land beyond the wildlife alone.

Routing is often more straightforward than assumed. Entebbe serves as an accessible gateway, with connections linking seamlessly to Kenya and Tanzania. Journeys can begin in Uganda with primate tracking before transitioning south to the Serengeti, or start on the savannah and conclude in the forest for a powerful finale. The direction of travel subtly shapes the emotional arc of the trip, whether building towards the intensity of a gorilla encounter or allowing it to serve as a reflective conclusion.

Importantly, Uganda introduces strong conservation and community narratives. Gorilla permits directly fund protection efforts and local initiatives, making each trek part of a broader conservation success story. Visitors witness firsthand how tourism revenue supports education, healthcare and habitat preservation. For increasingly conscious travellers, this alignment between experience and impact strengthens the appeal of including Uganda within a wider East African safari.

Uganda also pairs naturally with coastal extensions. After forest trekking and river safaris, a flight onward to Zanzibar offers warmth, colour and release. The shift from mist-covered hills to Indian Ocean beaches creates a satisfying conclusion and one that balances exertion with rest and intensity with ease.

Finally, the journey through Uganda is not just about observing wildlife. It is about feeling the pulse of the landscape, from the dense forest floor to the open savannah plains. Moments of stillness, listening to birdsong or watching primates move through the canopy, create emotional depth and a sense of connection that lingers long after the safari ends.

Ultimately, Uganda’s role within an East African safari circuit is about texture. It softens the vastness of the plains with intimacy, replaces horizon lines with canopy cover and transforms wildlife viewing from observation to participation. If you'd like to include it in your next safari journey then let's chat about your options!

Why East Africa still defines the classic safari

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:23:11 GMT

Landscapes, wildlife and journeys that set the benchmark for African travel

For many, the idea of an African safari begins and ends with East Africa. It is here that the original safari routes took shape, where endless savannahs stretch to the horizon, and where wildlife encounters unfold on a scale that still feels almost cinematic. Long before safari became a global concept, East Africa was already setting the standard – and it continues to do so today.

The region is a study in contrasts, both geographical and experiential. From the open plains of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara to the misty slopes of the Virunga Mountains, East Africa delivers landscapes that are diverse, dramatic and endlessly photogenic. Volcanoes and highlands punctuate the horizon, rivers carve through woodlands, and forested valleys harbour species found nowhere else on earth.

The addition of the Indian Ocean coastline, with islands such as Zanzibar, provides a gentle counterpoint to days spent in the bush. Here, white sand beaches, swaying palms and turquoise waters offer a chance to pause and reflect, creating a natural bookend to a journey filled with wildlife, movement and discovery.

It is a region that offers breadth without compromise and balance without losing the sense of adventure.

Movement is what truly defines the region. The seasonal migration of wildebeest and zebra is the most famous example – a vast, circular journey dictated by rain, grass and instinct. But this rhythm of movement runs deeper. Elephants follow ancient routes between feeding grounds, predators track the herds, and rivers rise and fall in response to rainfall hundreds of kilometres away.

Even the flow of travel from one camp to the next echoes this movement, connecting landscapes, ecosystems and experiences so that they feel like part of a single, evolving story. The way the wildlife interacts with the land is mirrored in the journey itself, where plains, forests, wetlands and riverine corridors all play a role in the narrative of the region.

Wildlife density is remarkable, but context is what elevates each sighting. Observing a lion pride on the open plains of the Serengeti is a vastly different experience from trekking through Ugandan forests to watch mountain gorillas. Both are extraordinary, but each has its own rhythm, intensity and emotional resonance. Birdlife, reptiles, small mammals and even insects contribute to a sense of richness that goes far beyond the headline species.

East Africa’s wildlife storytelling is multi-layered, shaped by habitat, climate, behavioural dynamics and the human history that underpins conservation and landscape stewardship. Every encounter, whether with a solitary leopard in a kopje or a family of elephants crossing a floodplain, offers a window into a carefully balanced ecosystem.

Culture is equally integral. Pastoralist traditions, particularly those of the Maasai people, remain closely tied to the land, and their presence adds an authentic human dimension that enhances rather than distracts from the wilderness. In Uganda and Rwanda, community-led conservation initiatives and sustainable tourism programmes provide a meaningful complement to wildlife encounters, showing how people, animals and landscapes can coexist. These experiences add perspective and depth, reminding travellers that safari is as much about understanding the world as it is about witnessing it.

Accessibility and variety are further hallmarks of the region. First-time safari-goers can ease into the experience without sacrificing depth, while those with prior experience can discover remote corners and specialist encounters that feel genuinely fresh.

One journey may focus on the drama of big cats on the plains, another on intimate primate encounters in forests, and yet another on a seamless blend of safari and coastline, with Zanzibar providing a natural place to pause, reflect and unwind after days in the bush. The combination of savannah, forest and beach allows every itinerary to feel expansive and layered, offering different textures, rhythms and experiences that ensure no two safaris are ever identical.

Timing also matters. East Africa does not have a single safari season but a rolling series of highlights. The migration shifts, bird populations move, and landscapes transform with rainfall. This means there is rarely a wrong time to travel – only different reasons to go at different moments.

Predator activity, primate trekking conditions, river levels and even light for photography all vary throughout the year, subtly shaping the character of each journey. A safari planned with these rhythms in mind feels connected and coherent, where every sighting and every moment is enhanced by the season in which it occurs.

Ultimately, East Africa sets the benchmark not because it is inherently superior, but because it is foundational. It demonstrates the safari in its most recognisable form while leaving space for nuance, surprise and personal interpretation.

Whether it is a first encounter with African wildlife or a continuation of a lifetime of safari, East Africa reveals why the safari idea captured the imagination of the world – and why it continues to inspire today. Its landscapes, wildlife and cultural richness provide the tools to create journeys that are layered, engaging and coherent. From expansive plains to forested slopes and coastal retreats, East Africa delivers variety, scale and drama without compromise.

Decades after the first safari routes were blazed, the region continues to define the essence of African travel. Every step through savannah or forest, every encounter with a predator or primate, and every pause on a Zanzibar beach is part of a story that only East Africa can tell. It is a place where the landscape, wildlife and human presence are in constant dialogue, creating journeys that are simultaneously iconic, intimate and endlessly compelling.

Designing year-round Serengeti safaris

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:01:51 GMT

Diverse journeys to showcase seasonal diversity

The Serengeti is often defined by the Great Migration, but a well-crafted safari reveals that this vast ecosystem has so much more to offer. From rolling grasslands and rocky kopjes to riverine forests and wetlands, the Serengeti supports year-round wildlife activity, creating opportunities for memorable encounters at any time. Understanding how we highlight these layers gives you a window into the fuller story of the ecosystem rather than just the headline river crossings.

It's always useful to remember that while the migration is one of the world's most famous wildlife events, the Serengeti’s appeal stretches across the whole year and a variety of habitats. Predator activity, social dynamics and cub-rearing behaviours as well as a plethora of the "usual wildlife suspects" can all be observed throughout the year. By focusing on resident wildlife patterns, A&H enables you to offer your clients continuity and predictability without losing the sense of adventure.

A successful Serengeti safari balances classic hotspots with quieter, often overlooked areas. The northern plains attract photographers and migration-focused travellers, while the southern calving grounds offer dramatic interactions early in the year. Western corridors, such as Grumeti and Ikorongo, combine riverine scenery with opportunities for observing social dynamics in action.

Meanwhile, the eastern and southern woodlands are rich in smaller species and birdlife. Linking these regions thoughtfully allows your clients to see contrasts in landscape, behaviour and density, making the safari feel comprehensive rather than repetitive.

Timing and seasonality remain central to journey design, but not in the conventional sense of “peak” versus “low” season. Each period offers distinct experiences: the calving season reveals intense predator-prey dynamics; the green season brings dramatic skies, newborn herbivores and fewer vehicles; and the dry season concentrates wildlife around permanent water sources, enhancing the likelihood of extended sightings.

By planning around these rhythms, A&H ensures you can offer clients experiences that feel intentional and immersive rather than rushed or opportunistic.

Accommodation plays a crucial role in shaping the Serengeti experience. Strategically located lodges and mobile camps allow travellers to wake up with the plains at their doorstep, reducing travel time and maximising wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Mixing remote tented camps and mobile/seasonal camps with larger lodges provides variety, while ensuring comfort and service remain consistently high. Placement should also consider wildlife behaviour and benefit from proximity to active areas, as well as facilities, size and levels of intimacy (especially for romantic escapes where privacy is paramount).

Adding layers beyond traditional game drives elevates a safari further. Walking safaris allow clients to appreciate the landscape, tracks and smaller species that go unnoticed from vehicles. Night drives reveal nocturnal activity and provide a different perspective on the ecosystem. Both of these are largely only offered on private concessions and conservancies, so that's an important thing to consider.

Cultural encounters with Maasai and other communities or conservation-focused projects provide insight into the human-wildlife interface, adding depth and resonance to each day. These experiences demonstrate the Serengeti’s versatility and ensure that a safari can be tailored to client interests.

Well-timed air and road transfers connect northern and southern regions efficiently. Road transfers should be scenic and part of the journey, rather than merely functional. Guides, vehicles and camps must be sequenced to maintain rhythm, allowing wildlife experiences to feel uninterrupted. Attention to these details ensures clients encounter the Serengeti as a living, breathing ecosystem rather than a series of isolated sightings.

Finally, journeys that go beyond the migration reinforce the Serengeti’s narrative power. Travellers witness continuity alongside spectacle: resident wildlife following seasonal rhythms, interactions across habitats and the subtle shifts of the plains throughout the year. Each safari becomes a story of the ecosystem itself, rather than a calendar of events.

This approach builds confidence in selling the Serengeti year-round, highlighting both headline moments and quieter, equally compelling experiences that leave a lasting impression.

With the support of A&H, you can offer safaris that are not just trips, but rich, layered journeys that can be enjoyed at any time of year.

10 essential building blocks for a great safari

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:57:55 GMT

The A&H guide to designing perfect journeys

There is a moment every good safari itinerary should deliver. That quiet click, when everything suddenly makes sense. Flights line up. Landscapes flow. Wildlife encounters feel earned rather than staged. For all of us, this moment does not happen by accident. It comes from understanding how the East African region works as a whole, and how its moving parts fit together long before anyone ever boards a plane...

Designing safaris in East Africa is less about selling destinations and more about building experiences. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zanzibar are not standalone products. They are chapters in a wider story, each with its own pace, personality and purpose. Get the structure right, and the safari sings. Get it wrong, and even the most extraordinary places can feel disjointed.

These 10 building blocks form the backbone of itineraries that flow, excite and ultimately deliver on what East Africa promises best.

1. Where the journey begins.

A safari opening should feel like an invitation, not a hurdle. Kenya offers a natural introduction, with Nairobi acting as a polished gateway into wild spaces like Laikipia or the Masai Mara. Tanzania opens with scale and drama, often beginning in Arusha before expanding into vast wilderness. Uganda and Rwanda offer a more focused start, purposeful and immersive, particularly for travellers drawn to primates and conservation led experiences. Choosing the right starting point shapes expectations from day one.

The opening days are also when travellers begin to acclimatise to the pace and rhythm of East Africa. Settling into the sights, sounds and movements of the landscape allows the journey to feel immersive from the start. It is in these early hours and days that anticipation builds into understanding, setting the tone for how wildlife, scenery and culture will be experienced throughout the safari.

2. Joining the dots

The Serengeti and the Masai Mara earn their reputations, but the magic lies in how they are paired. A classic savannah safari gains depth when balanced with places like Samburu, Ruaha, Katavi or northern Uganda. These regions add contrast, breathing space and a sense of discovery that trade clients increasingly value. It is here that itineraries move from familiar to memorable.

Linking iconic and lesser-known regions allows the safari to tell a richer story. Travellers experience contrasting ecosystems, from open plains to forested hills, from riverine corridors to volcanic landscapes, each with its own wildlife rhythms and character. This variety keeps every day fresh, offering surprise and discovery beyond the headline moments.

3. Timing and seasonality

This building block is one of the most powerful we have. East Africa rewards those who plan ahead. The Great Migration shifts and evolves. Green seasons bring drama, light and fewer vehicles. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking conditions vary subtly through the year. Zanzibar’s seasons influence how a safari should end. Designing with these rhythms in mind transforms good trips into exceptional ones.

Understanding the seasons also enhances the quality of wildlife encounters and scenery. Whether it is observing newborns in the green season, tracking concentrated wildlife during dry months, or catching the perfect light for photography, timing allows each experience to feel intentional. Seasonality shapes not only what is seen, but also how it is experienced, creating moments that are unforgettable.

4. Wildlife: focus with intent

Not every safari needs to chase the same story. Some travellers want predator-rich plains and big skies. Others want time, patience and forest encounters in Uganda or Rwanda. Knowing where behaviour is best observed, not just where species exist, allows itineraries to feel purposeful rather than generic. This is where expert planning truly shows.

Focusing on behaviour as well as species adds depth and engagement to every encounter. Guests gain insight into hunting strategies, social structures or foraging patterns, turning sightings into stories. This intentional approach ensures wildlife experiences are more than snapshots—they become opportunities to understand the rhythms and intelligence of the natural world.

5. Cultural context

When handled well, culture adds resonance rather than distraction. Encounters with Maasai communities, framed with respect and authenticity, provide insight into how people and landscapes coexist. Elsewhere, conservation initiatives, community guides and local narratives deepen a traveller’s connection to place. These moments should feel natural, not performative.

Culture also provides perspective on conservation and the human dimension of wildlife management. Seeing communities actively protecting habitats or participating in eco-tourism projects gives context to wildlife encounters, making them richer and more meaningful. These experiences highlight how people and nature interact, adding layers to the safari story.

6. Smart logistics

East Africa rewards good routing. A well-timed light aircraft flight becomes part of the experience, offering aerial perspective and saving precious time. Poor connections or unnecessary road transfers drain energy and excitement. For the trade, mastering logistics is about protecting the rhythm of the journey while making the most of the region’s remarkable air networks.

Well-considered logistics also allow travellers to spend more time immersed in landscapes rather than in transit. Smooth connections between regions, camps and experiences preserve energy and anticipation, letting each safari day flow naturally. Efficient routing transforms travel into part of the adventure rather than a logistical challenge.

7. Accommodation progression

Where guests sleep matters, but how those properties relate to one another matters more. A safari that evolves from contemporary comfort to remote simplicity feels like a journey unfolding. Mixing styles, locations and levels of exclusivity keeps experiences fresh while avoiding sensory overload.

A thoughtfully sequenced accommodation plan also shapes the emotional journey. Beginning in accessible camps allows adaptation, moving into remote lodges creates intimacy, and ending at a coastal or island property provides a gentle denouement. The evolution of lodgings mirrors the narrative of the safari itself.

8. Space to settle

Great safaris are not rushed. Allowing guests to have a slow safari and to stay put, to watch patterns emerge and landscapes reveal themselves, leads to richer sightings and deeper appreciation. This is especially important around primate trekking, where the emotional weight of the experience benefits from time and reflection.

Remaining in one location also lets subtle wildlife behaviours become visible. Patterns of movement, feeding or interaction can be observed over hours, giving insight that fleeting sightings never provide. Time and space allow guests to absorb the rhythm of the environment fully.

9. Ending well

The ninth building block and often the most overlooked. A safari needs a sense of closure. For example, Zanzibar plays this role beautifully, offering warmth, colour and a gentler rhythm after days spent tracking wildlife. It allows travellers to exhale, to process and to leave Africa with balance rather than fatigue. Alternatively, ending deep in the bush can work for those seeking immersion to the very last moment. Either way, the finale should feel intentional.

A considered ending frames the entire journey, helping experiences resonate and settle. Whether it is the gentle lapping of waves on Zanzibar, the golden glow over savannah plains, or the quiet of a forest sunrise, a strong conclusion ensures memories linger and the story of the safari feels complete.

10. Storytelling

The best journeys tell a story that unfolds naturally. Landscapes change. Wildlife encounters build. Experiences feel connected. For the trade, this narrative clarity makes selling easier and ensures travellers return home feeling they have truly travelled, not simply moved between places.

Storytelling unites all elements of the safari into a cohesive narrative. Every landscape, species encounter, cultural insight and moment of reflection contributes to a larger arc, leaving guests with memories that are coherent, layered and meaningful. A well-told safari is more than a series of destinations—it is a journey that lives on long after the plane touches down.

East Africa is generous. It rewards curiosity, patience and good planning. When these 10 building blocks are understood and applied, itineraries gain confidence and character. For our trade partners, this is where our creativity thrives and where the safaris we create move beyond expectation into something genuinely unforgettable.

The return of the rhino

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 07:28:36 GMT

East Africa’s brightest conservation success story

The sight of a black rhinoceros moving silently through the bush is among the rarest and most thrilling moments on any East African safari. Once widespread across the region’s great plains, forests and highlands, both black and white rhinos suffered catastrophic declines in the 20th century due to relentless poaching and habitat loss. Today, however, these ancient creatures are making a cautious but significant comeback, thanks to dedicated conservation work, cross-border cooperation and the careful management of private and public reserves. Let's find out more...

The return of the rhino to key parts of East Africa is more than a conservation success story. It is a testament to the balance of people, land and wildlife that underpins every exceptional safari. This balance has been hard-won, and every rhino sighting is a reminder of the decades of effort that have gone into protecting one of Africa’s most endangered animals.

In northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area holds one of the country’s last free-ranging populations of black rhino. These elusive animals remain difficult to see, shy, wary and expertly camouflaged, but patient guides from Anderson & Harvey can sometimes track their movements across the crater floor. Each sighting here is a moment of quiet triumph, a glimpse of an ancient survivor in a landscape that has seen the passing of thousands of years.

Further north, the Serengeti has seen a slow return of black rhino, particularly in the Moru Kopjes region. This area offers some of the best chances for guests to encounter rhinos in a classic savanna setting, with guides carefully monitoring reports from rangers and researchers. The return of rhinos to Serengeti is deeply symbolic. It represents not only the restoration of a missing piece of the ecosystem, but also the triumph of protection over poaching in one of Africa’s most visited reserves.

Across the border in Kenya, the rhino story is equally inspiring. The private conservancies of Laikipia, such as Lewa and Ol Pejeta, as well as Lake Nakuru, have become strongholds for both black and white rhinos, offering secure habitats, intensive monitoring and significant tourism revenue that flows back into local communities. In these areas, the connection between safari and conservation is direct and tangible. Visiting guests contribute to the survival of the species through the very act of travelling.

Further west, Rwanda’s Akagera National Park has emerged as one of the continent’s unexpected rhino success stories. After decades without rhino, Akagera reintroduced both black and white species sourced from secure populations in South Africa. Today, these animals are thriving, and sightings are becoming increasingly common on guided drives. For Anderson & Harvey guests seeking a varied and surprising safari circuit, including gorillas in the Volcanoes and wildlife in Akagera, this marks an exciting new chapter in Rwanda’s conservation history.

Despite these successes, the challenges remain enormous. Rhino conservation is expensive, requiring constant vigilance, armed protection teams and cutting-edge technology such as drones and GPS tracking. The threat of poaching, driven by demand for rhino horn in illegal markets, has not disappeared. Habitat encroachment, climate change and human-wildlife conflict all pose risks to the fragile gains of recent years.

Yet there is hope. Rhino numbers are slowly rising, and the genetic diversity of these managed populations is being carefully maintained through international collaboration. Tourism plays a vital role.

At Anderson & Harvey we ensure that every guest visit supports conservation directly, funding the rangers, researchers and community programmes that make rhino survival possible.

For travellers, encountering a rhino in East Africa is now an achievable dream once more. Whether in the misty crater of Ngorongoro, the sunlit kopjes of Serengeti, the grassy plains of Laikipia or the rolling hills of Akagera, these animals stand as living proof that with care, patience and commitment, even the most endangered giants can find safe ground.

For us, these moments are the reward for working closely with conservation bodies, community trusts and expert guides. Each sighting deepens the story guests take home. Not only of what they saw, but of what was saved, protected and returned to its rightful place in the wild heart of East Africa.

On the trail of predators

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 07:25:33 GMT

Big Cats in the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem

The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem stands as one of the most iconic wildlife landscapes in the world, a sprawling expanse of savannah, riverine forest and kopjes that has shaped our understanding of Africa’s great predators. For over a century, this region has captivated scientists, photographers and safari guests alike, offering some of the best opportunities to witness the drama, power and complexity of lions, cheetahs and leopards in their natural realm.

At Anderson & Harvey, the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem remains a cornerstone of the safari experience. It is also a stage for some of the most fascinating predator behaviour on the continent, from tactical alliances and territorial brinkmanship to the fine-tuned strategies that define their survival.

Male lions, for instance, are not just brute forces marching across the plains. They are political operators, forming coalitions of brothers or even unrelated males to increase their chances of taking and defending pride territories. Cheetahs also build alliances. Males often join together in small coalitions that help them secure hunting ranges. But for cheetah mothers, the story is a more fragile one. They raise their cubs against steep odds, navigating a landscape where lions, hyenas and even martial eagles threaten their young. This constant pressure is one reason the species remains vulnerable.

Leopards, meanwhile, play an entirely different game. Their lives are shaped by adaptability, the ability to shift territories, adjust hunting routines or reroute their movements when competition intensifies or human presence creeps closer. They are the shape-shifters of the predator world, masters of rewriting their own rules of survival.

Our team of expert guides bring unmatched knowledge of these behaviours, enabling guests to understand not just where to find these animals but how to appreciate the intricate social and ecological roles they play. The big cats here are more than mere spectacles. They are apex predators whose presence keeps the ecosystem in balance.

Lions dominate this landscape both in number and in personality. The Serengeti holds some of the densest lion populations in Africa, with prides that range from a handful of individuals to more than twenty. These prides are complex, multi-layered societies. Related females work together to hunt and rear cubs, males defend their hard-won territory and sub-adults learn the lessons that will shape their future.

Watching lions with an understanding of their social dynamics adds a powerful layer to any sighting. Moments of tenderness, tension or triumph begin to tell their own stories.

Cheetahs, by contrast, bring a different energy to the plains. They are finely tuned sprinters whose lives depend on timing, visibility and speed. Their hunting style, stealth followed by a blistering chase, requires wide open grasslands and a sensitive balance of risk and opportunity. The Serengeti’s mix of open plains, scattered shrubs and rolling grasslands gives them room to thrive, though not without challenges. High cub mortality and intense competition from other predators mean that every cheetah sighting carries a sense of fragile resilience.

Leopards remain the most enigmatic of the trio. Preferring dense cover, rocky outcrops and riverine forests, they slip through their environment like shadows. Their solitary existence makes sightings less predictable but far more intimate. Watching a leopard stash a kill in a tree, or seeing a youngster practise its stalking skills under the watchful gaze of its mother, offers some of the most memorable encounters in African safari travel.

Together, these predators shape the ecosystem around them. Their interactions influence herbivore behaviour, which in turn affects vegetation growth and the overall health of the landscape. This is the circle of life in motion, a living and breathing system where every species plays its part.

Our commitment to conservation and research ensures that guests learn about these relationships and understand that a safari is not only about spectacular sightings but also about the complex web of life those sightings represent.

At Anderson & Harvey, our guides are storytellers as much as they are trackers. They bring years of experience to each drive, walk or observation, interpreting the animals’ behaviour and revealing the narratives unfolding across the plains. This depth of insight transforms an encounter with a lion, cheetah or leopard into something far more meaningful, a moment of connection with the wider ecosystem.

For those travelling with Anderson & Harvey, witnessing big cats is often a highlight of any safari. Each sighting offers a glimpse into stories of survival, adaptation and the untamed spirit of East Africa. And in a time when these species face pressure from habitat loss, conflict and poaching, such encounters serve as powerful reminders of both nature’s resilience and the ongoing need for conservation.

We remain dedicated to supporting protected areas, nurturing community partnerships and practising responsible tourism that helps ensure these magnificent predators continue to thrive for generations to come.

On the trail of the painted wolf

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:23:05 GMT

Meet East Africa's enigmatic wild dog

Few animals embody the spirit of Africa’s wild places quite like the painted wolf (Lycaon pictus) also known as the African wild dog. Their mottled coats of black, brown, white and yellow create a living mosaic that is as unique as each individual. More than just their striking appearance, these elusive carnivores are renowned for their complex social structure, extraordinary hunting stamina and endangered status. Let's find out more about them...

For guests travelling with Anderson & Harvey through the Serengeti, Ruaha and Selous (now part of Nyerere National Park) ecosystems, the chance to track and observe these rare predators is a highlight that offers both thrilling safari moments and important conservation insights.

Painted wolves are among the most efficient hunters on the planet. Packs can consist of up to 20 or more animals, led by a dominant breeding pair. The cohesion and cooperation within the pack are remarkable. Unlike solitary predators such as leopards or ambush hunters like lions, painted wolves hunt in highly coordinated groups. They use remarkable teamwork and stamina to pursue prey relentlessly over long distances, reaching speeds up to 60km per hour. This endurance hunting strategy often exhausts their quarry, leading to a success rate estimated at 80% - far higher than other African predators.

The pack’s social bonds are intricate and essential to their survival. Beyond the dominant pair, all members participate in raising the pups, sharing duties like guarding the den, regurgitating food, and teaching young wild dogs to hunt. This co-operative care enhances pup survival in a species that faces high risks from disease, predation and human conflict.

Wild dogs require vast territories to roam, often covering hundreds of square kilometres to find adequate prey. This need for large, connected landscapes means they are highly sensitive to habitat fragmentation caused by human settlement and infrastructure. Today, their range is fragmented and populations have shrunk drastically across Africa.

Tanzania remains a vital stronghold, with healthy populations in the Serengeti National Park, Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, all areas frequently chosen by Anderson & Harvey for their exceptional wilderness values and commitment to conservation.

The Serengeti and its associated ecosystems of Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area offer expansive open plains ideal for spotting painted wolves during their dynamic hunts. Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park, provides a rugged, less-visited habitat with diverse landscapes from riverine forests to acacia woodlands, supporting sizeable wild dog packs. Meanwhile, Nyerere National Park boasts vast savannah and miombo woodland, where wild dogs maintain stable populations alongside other large carnivores.

Despite their incredible adaptability and specialised hunting tactics, African wild dogs are classified as Endangered by the IUCN Red List. Their numbers have declined to an estimated 6,000 adults across the continent. The main threats include habitat loss and fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict (particularly persecution by livestock herders), and diseases such as rabies and canine distemper transmitted by domestic dogs.

Anderson & Harvey’s philosophy of responsible safari tourism embraces conservation education. Through carefully managed wildlife viewing, guests learn about the threats painted wolves face and how protecting their habitat benefits the broader ecosystem. This awareness encourages support for conservation initiatives that safeguard both wildlife and local communities.

Sightings remain relatively rare and require skilled guiding. Packs move frequently within large home ranges, sometimes covering up to 30km a day. Tracking involves interpreting spoor (footprints and scat), listening for vocalisations, and understanding pack dynamics. Anderson & Harvey’s guides, with deep local knowledge and experience, maximise guests’ chances of encountering wild dogs while minimising disturbance.

Beyond the immediate spectacle, these encounters foster a connection to the fragile balance of predator-prey relationships. Painted wolves regulate herbivore populations, preventing overgrazing and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Their survival is a key indicator of wilderness health.

Painted wolves represent more than a single species as they are symbols of the complex challenges facing Africa’s predators and the landscapes they inhabit. Anderson & Harvey’s safaris encourage a holistic understanding of East Africa’s biodiversity, blending thrilling wildlife experiences with meaningful conservation narratives.

Guests leave with a deeper appreciation of the painted wolves’ resilience and the ongoing work to protect them. This knowledge enriches the safari experience, transforming it from passive observation into active engagement with Africa’s natural heritage.

Lakes of life

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:19:53 GMT

Discover East Africa's great lakes with us

East Africa is famously associated with sweeping savannahs and spectacular wildlife migrations. Yet its landscape is also defined by a remarkable constellation of lakes, each a vital ecosystem offering unique wildlife, habitats and human cultures. For Anderson & Harvey guests exploring Tanzania’s northern circuit and beyond, the Great Lakes region reveals hidden wonders that deepen appreciation for the region’s biodiversity and heritage.

Among the most iconic is Lake Manyara, located at the base of the Rift Valley’s base. Once known for its flamingo-dusted shores, heavy rains and flooding have reduced the alkalinity of the water meaning that the algae on which they feed has largely disappeared, as it requires alkaline water to grow. However, you can see vast flocks of pelicans and a thriving waterbird community on the lake. Anderson & Harvey’s expert guides share insights into this phenomenon, revealing how changes in water chemistry and climate influence these birds’ behaviour.

To the north, Lake Natron is a study in extremes. Its highly alkaline, reddish waters create a harsh environment that few creatures can tolerate. Yet it serves as a critical breeding ground for the lesser flamingo, whose chicks rely on its isolated, predator-free shores for survival. The lake’s stark beauty is matched by its cultural significance. Local Maasai and Datoga pastoralists have coexisted with this environment for generations, adapting their ways to the unique conditions. Guests gain perspective on the interplay between nature and culture through visits to nearby communities, learning about traditional livestock management and crafts.

Further west lies Lake Eyasi, a lesser-known but fascinating waterbody surrounded by semi-arid bushland. It is home to the Hadzabe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer peoples in Africa. Their intimate knowledge of the land and its resources provides a rare glimpse into humanity’s deep connection with nature. Anderson & Harvey promotes respectful, authentic engagement with the Hadzabe, offering guests the chance to learn about their survival skills, tracking methods and seasonal movements without disrupting their way of life.

Stretching beyond Tanzania’s borders, Lake Victoria is the largest tropical lake in the world and sustains millions of people across Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Its freshwater ecosystem supports an abundance of fish species, including tilapia and the Nile perch. Lakeside fishing communities have developed intricate cultural traditions centred on the lake’s resources. The wetlands and papyrus swamps surrounding Lake Victoria form vital habitats for an extraordinary diversity of birds, from the regal African fish eagle to the elusive shoebill stork, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Finally, Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second deepest lake, is renowned for its endemic fish species and clear, deep waters. Bordering Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi and Zambia, it hosts cichlids found nowhere else on Earth. Its shores are dotted with fishing villages and historic trading ports, where ancient cultural traditions blend with modern livelihoods.

Together, these lakes create a network of life-supporting habitats that sustain wildlife, people and culture. Anderson & Harvey’s itineraries can incorporate visits to these diverse ecosystems, enriching the classic safari experience with encounters that reveal East Africa’s ecological and cultural complexity.

By exploring the lakes’ birdlife, fish diversity and local traditions, guests gain a holistic understanding of the region’s natural history and conservation challenges. The lakes face threats from climate change, pollution and overfishing, making responsible tourism and community partnerships vital to their future. Anderson & Harvey’s guides bring these stories to life with knowledge, passion and sensitivity, ensuring every visit leaves a lasting impression.

Into the highlands

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:34:03 GMT

Exploring East Africa’s Afro-montane forests

East Africa’s highlands are home to some of the continent’s most enchanting and least explored ecosystems: the Afro-montane forests. These dense, mist-shrouded landscapes stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, offering a world apart from the savanna plains below. For Anderson & Harvey guests, venturing into these highlands reveals a quieter, deeply special side of East Africa’s wildlife and wilderness, combining breathtaking scenery with intimate wildlife encounters and cultural immersion.

Afro-montane forests are part of the Albertine Rift and other high-elevation systems, some of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots. Their cool, humid environments support a remarkable range of endemic species found nowhere else on the continent. Bird enthusiasts, in particular, are rewarded with a kaleidoscope of rarities.

From Nyungwe National Park and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, with their Rwenzori turaco and green-tailed bristlebill, to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, with white-winged warblers, to Aberdare National Park and Mount Kenya National Park in Kenya, and Udzungwa Mountains National Park and Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania, these habitats are alive with sound and colour. Dense bamboo thickets, moss-laden branches and cloud forest zones provide the perfect stage for vivid plumage and melodious calls, offering a constant soundtrack to misty mornings and cool afternoons.

Primates are among the most captivating residents of these forests. Mountain gorillas are the highland icons of Rwanda and Uganda, their social bonds and intelligence captivating all who trek to see them. Golden monkeys, colobus monkeys and other species add depth and variety to the wildlife experience. Nyungwe is also famous for its chimpanzees, along with black-and-white colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys, while Kenya and Tanzania host troops of Sykes’ monkeys, blue monkeys and occasionally elusive chimpanzees.

Anderson & Harvey’s expert guides ensure encounters are not only safe but deeply informative, sharing insights into primate social structures, vocalisations and feeding behaviours. Watching gorillas move silently through mossy undergrowth, chimpanzees swing through the canopy or golden monkeys dance through bamboo is a vivid reminder of the richness contained within these ecosystems.

The flora of Afro-montane forests is equally extraordinary. Towering giant lobelias, umbrella-like Hagenia trees, endemic orchids and moss-draped trees form a living gallery of evolutionary adaptations to altitude and climate. These forests function as vital water catchments, feeding rivers, valleys and lakes while sustaining local agriculture and livelihoods.

Visitors quickly understand that these forests are more than scenic backdrops—they are life-support systems for both wildlife and people. Anderson & Harvey places great emphasis on responsible tourism here, highlighting the delicate ecology and ongoing conservation efforts to combat deforestation, soil erosion and climate change impacts.

Afro-montane forests also offer a wealth of trekking options and natural spectacles. Volcanic peaks, ridges, waterfalls and hidden valleys invite travellers to explore trails that wind through indigenous forest and across breathtaking highland terrain. From the canopy walk in Nyungwe and the peaks of Volcanoes, and ridges in Bwindi, to the escarpments of the Aberdares and waterfalls of the Udzungwas, the experiences combine adventure with education, as guides weave natural history, geology and cultural insights into every step.

Cultural encounters deepen the experience further. Highland communities such as the Bakiga of Rwanda, the Batwa of Uganda, and various groups in Kenya and Tanzania have lived in harmony with these forests for generations. Their traditional knowledge, farming practices and crafts offer guests a glimpse into rich, living cultures that coexist with fragile ecosystems. Anderson & Harvey promotes respectful and meaningful engagement with these communities, supporting initiatives that preserve cultural identity while encouraging sustainable livelihoods aligned with conservation goals.

In recent years, East Africa’s highlands have been rediscovered as multi-dimensional destinations. While mountain gorillas remain a major draw, these forests are emerging as biodiversity hotspots in their own right. For Anderson & Harvey guests, this translates to privileged access to rare species, unforgettable landscapes and authentic experiences across a compact but ecologically diverse region.

The allure of Afro-montane forests invites travellers to slow down and appreciate East Africa’s ecological complexity. Shaped by altitude, climate and geological history, these forests provide refuge for species that cannot survive elsewhere. Guides steeped in local knowledge and conservation awareness serve as passionate ambassadors for this landscape, sharing stories that connect guests intimately to the land, its creatures and communities.

Kenya's elephant heartlands

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:27:15 GMT

The Chyulu Hills and Amboseli are renowned for their gentle giants

If there is a single creature that embodies the spirit of East Africa’s wilderness, it is the elephant. Towering, intelligent and ancient, elephants shape the landscape they inhabit as surely as rain or fire. And nowhere is this quiet influence more profoundly felt than in Kenya's Chyulu Hills and Amboseli ecosystems – twin landscapes that have become the last refuge of East Africa’s great tuskers and the stronghold of elephant conservation.

The Chyulu Hills rise in a long, dark-green spine between the sprawling plains of Kenya’s Tsavo and the northern reaches of Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro. To the southeast lies Amboseli National Park – a place where dusty, open grasslands stretch to the horizon, punctuated by swamps fed by underground water from Kilimanjaro’s hidden glaciers. These two regions are inseparable, part of a greater ecological whole that sustains one of Africa’s most important elephant populations.

Anderson & Harvey understands the significance of this landscape – not only as a place of great natural beauty but as a living ecosystem where wildlife, people and land are bound together. This is the elephant’s domain, and it is here that guests are offered the chance to encounter some of the most remarkable individuals in the species: the great tuskers.

The term “tusker” refers to elephants – almost always old bulls – whose ivory tusks are so long they touch the ground. Such animals are rare today, the victims of decades of ivory poaching that have removed the genes for such impressive tusks from many populations. But in Amboseli and the Chyulu Hills, a small number survive. Elephants like Craig, Tim (before his natural death) and Tolstoy have become living legends – massive, gentle giants whose presence reminds us of what Africa once was, and what it could be again if properly protected.

It is these elephants that draw wildlife photographers and conservationists from around the world. There is something extraordinary about watching such a creature stride slowly across the dust, tusks gleaming in the early light, the curve of Kilimanjaro rising behind. For many Anderson & Harvey guests, a sighting like this is not merely a safari highlight – it is a personal moment of awe.

But the story of these elephants is not one of spectacle alone. Amboseli and Chyulu form a vital migration corridor, allowing elephants to move between feeding and breeding grounds, to follow the seasonal patterns of rain and grass. Without this connectivity, the herds would fragment, their health and genetic diversity suffering. Community conservancies, supported by careful tourism models like those favoured by Anderson & Harvey, play a key role here – ensuring that local Maasai communities benefit directly from elephant conservation, reducing conflict and protecting habitat.

Amboseli itself is an astonishing example of how wildlife and wetland can coexist in an otherwise arid land. The swamps that thread through the park, fed by invisible meltwater from Kilimanjaro, allow elephants to bathe, drink and socialise year-round.

It is here that the famous Elephant Research Project, running for over four decades, has tracked the lives of individual animals – revealing extraordinary intelligence, memory, and emotional depth. Family herds led by wise matriarchs pass knowledge down through generations, remembering water sources in drought years, avoiding danger and teaching calves the pathways of survival.

The Chyulu Hills, by contrast, offer mystery and solitude. This volcanic range, clothed in cloud forest and open grassland, is less visited than Amboseli but equally vital. Elephants move through these hills in secret, hidden in the forested valleys and remote lava flows. Here they find refuge from human disturbance, ancient routes remembered over centuries. The hills also offer remarkable biodiversity – from forest buffalo to rare birds like the Abbott’s starling – but it is the elephants that remain the quiet architects of this landscape, opening clearings, breaking branches and shaping the vegetation itself.

For Anderson & Harvey’s guests, this dual landscape offers a safari experience of rare depth. Days spent tracking elephant herds in Amboseli’s sunlit swamps are complemented by excursions into the shadowed hills of Chyulu, where the silence is broken only by bird calls and the distant crack of a branch. This is a place where time slows – where the presence of elephants is felt even when they remain unseen.

The conservation challenges here are real. Human-elephant conflict remains a threat, as farming pressure expands along the corridor edges. Climate change brings uncertainty to water sources, and the long-term survival of the tuskers depends on careful genetic management and the prevention of poaching. But there is hope – because this landscape, unlike so many others, retains its integrity. The corridor remains open, the herds still roam, and the great tuskers still lift their heads beneath Kilimanjaro’s gaze.

For Anderson & Harvey, this is not simply a safari destination – it is a place of commitment. Through relationships with private conservancies, community partners and expert local guides, the company ensures that guests witness the true elephant story: not staged encounters but real, wild, free-ranging giants in their natural kingdom.

In a world where such experiences are increasingly rare, the Chyulu Hills and Amboseli remain a sanctuary – for elephants, for wilderness and for those who seek the deep, quiet truth of Africa’s oldest landscapes.

A culture of tradition, identity and spirit

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 13:02:43 GMT

The Maasai are as iconic as East Africa's national parks

For many travellers to East Africa, the image of the Maasai warrior is as enduring as that of the wildebeest crossing the Mara River or the elephants roaming the Serengeti plains. The bright shúkà cloth, the beaded adornments, the slender frame of a herdsman striding the landscape – these have become icons of the region, symbols of a culture that remains proudly distinct in a modernising world.

No matter how iconic they have become, the Maasai are not a photographic cliché or a footnote to the safari experience. For those who travel thoughtfully, with operators like Anderson & Harvey who are deeply committed to meaningful and respectful engagement, there is an opportunity to understand the real Maasai story – one that speaks of ancient traditions, spiritual connections to land, and the complexities of life in the 21st century.

The Maasai people have lived in the savannas and rift valleys of East Africa for centuries, their presence woven into the landscape as tightly as the migration paths of wildebeest or the routes of elephants. Primarily found in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania, the Maasai are semi-nomadic pastoralists, their lives shaped by the cycles of cattle grazing, rain, and grass growth. Cattle are not merely livestock – they are central to Maasai identity, wealth, social standing and even spiritual belief. In Maasai cosmology, cattle were given to them by the Creator, Enkai, as a divine gift. To this day, Maasai measure prosperity not in shillings or dollars but in the number and health of their herds.

A visit to a Maasai community – when done sensitively and with true mutual respect – reveals the living heart of these traditions. It is not a staged encounter or a performance for tourists. It is a glimpse into a way of life that has adapted but not been erased, that has shifted but not disappeared.

Anderson & Harvey ensures that such cultural experiences are carefully selected, avoiding ‘tourist villages’ and instead supporting communities where guests can meet real elders, hear real stories and understand the role the Maasai play in East Africa’s protected landscapes.

In many conservancies and community areas bordering the Serengeti, Tarangire and Amboseli, Maasai pastoralists are not excluded from the land – they are partners in conservation. Their traditional knowledge of the bush – reading spoor, predicting weather, locating hidden water sources – is invaluable to understanding these ecosystems. Their grazing practices, too, when well-managed, can play a role in sustaining healthy grassland habitats for both cattle and wildlife.

But the modern Maasai story is not frozen in time. Many young Maasai now attend school or university, balancing a foot in two worlds – the ancestral and the modern. Women, long expected to fulfil domestic roles, are finding new voices as entrepreneurs, educators and conservation leaders. Beadwork, once made solely for adornment within the community, is now a thriving source of income through carefully managed cooperatives, with money supporting schooling, healthcare and food security.

Yet challenges remain. Land pressure is acute. As East Africa’s human population grows and development spreads, the old cattle routes shrink. Climate change brings uncertainty to rain cycles, threatening the grasslands on which both Maasai herds and wildlife depend. The struggle to preserve culture while embracing opportunity is real and ongoing. It is not a story of nostalgia – it is a story of resilience.

For Anderson & Harvey, the connection to the Maasai runs deeper than the occasional cultural excursion. The company’s guides, many of whom come from Maasai communities themselves, carry this heritage into the field – blending deep ecological knowledge with lived cultural experience. A guide who can interpret both lion spoor and the meaning of a Maasai song around a campfire brings a richer, more layered understanding of the land to every guest.

Maasai culture also informs the very way many conservancies operate. Many Maasai communities lease grazing and tourism rights to operators in return for income, jobs and infrastructure. These partnerships are delicate but essential – a model where wildlife conservation and cultural survival walk hand in hand. When done well, as Anderson & Harvey always strives to ensure, these relationships empower rather than exploit.

Guests who travel with Anderson & Harvey have the rare chance to learn what it means to live between wilderness and village, between ancient ritual and modern change. To stand at the edge of a boma at sunrise and watch the herders lead their cattle into the dawn mist is to understand that the Maasai are not the past of East Africa – they are its present and, with care, its future.

This is the deeper story that thoughtful safari reveals. It is not written on glossy brochures or shouted from guidebooks. It is lived, quietly but powerfully, in the rhythm of hoof and foot across the land – the timeless and the changing, side by side.

A&H goes beyond the Big Five...

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:58:27 GMT

The secret life of East Africa's lesser-known animals

For many safari travellers, the phrase "East Africa" conjures images of lions stalking the Serengeti, elephants crossing the Masai Mara, and leopards lounging in acacia shade. The Big Five remain the iconic drawcard – and rightly so – but the wild heart of East Africa offers far more than these familiar faces. Beneath this famous surface lies a secret world of rare and remarkable creatures, animals whose names few can pronounce and whose habits remain mysterious, even to seasoned safari-goers.

Take, for example, Temminck’s ground pangolin – one of Africa’s most secretive and endangered mammals. Nocturnal, armoured with protective keratin scales, and endlessly shy, this elusive insectivore patrols the savanna and forest floors in search of ants and termites. Almost impossible to spot without exceptional luck, the pangolin is a quiet emblem of East Africa’s hidden wonders, reminding us that not all safari treasures roar or trumpet.

East Africa is also home to the African civet, a solitary, nocturnal creature that shuffles through woodlands and scrub on the hunt for fruit, insects, eggs, and carrion. Its bold black-and-white banding makes it unmistakable on a rare night drive, and its strong musky scent once made it valuable in the perfume trade. For many safari guests, a glimpse of this secretive omnivore is a surprise highlight of their journey.

Then there is the honey badger, famous for its strength, stubbornness, and fearlessness. Found in both the drier woodlands of northern Tanzania this small carnivore has been known to fight off lions and leopards when threatened. It digs tirelessly for burrowing prey, tears into bee hives for honey, and is one of the bush’s most determined survivors. Few animals of its size carry such a formidable reputation.

Not all of East Africa’s overlooked species are small. The spotted hyena is often misunderstood – its eerie whooping calls unfairly associated with scavenging. In truth, hyenas are among the region’s most efficient predators, capable of chasing down wildebeest or zebra in high-speed endurance hunts. Clans display remarkable intelligence, social complexity, and adaptability, thriving everywhere from the Serengeti plains to the hills of Rwanda’s Akagera National Park.

More elusive still is the serval – a long-legged, finely spotted wild cat that haunts marshes and savannas alike. Perfectly adapted to hunting rodents and birds in thick grass, the serval can spring metres into the air to pin down fleeing prey. With oversized ears constantly turning to catch the faintest rustle, it is a master of stealth and patience. Its close cousin, the African wild cat, roams across the region too – a shadowy ancestor of the domestic tabby.

East Africa’s rare antelope species offer further secrets. The Uganda kob, as its name suggests, is endemic to Uganda– its reddish coat and graceful build a frequent sight along the Nile floodplains of Murchison Falls National Park. The shy sitatunga – a swamp-dwelling antelope with splayed hooves for navigating marshes – lurks in the papyrus channels of Uganda’s Mabamba wetlands and Rwanda’s Akagera fringes, rarely seen but always near.

And then there is the smallest antelope of them all: the Kirk’s dik-dik, found across Tanzania and Kenya. Barely knee-high, these delicate creatures live in monogamous pairs and dart nervously between thickets, pausing to blink their enormous dark eyes at any disturbance. Their quiet presence is a gentle reminder of the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.

The forests of Uganda and Rwanda offer yet another cast of secret stars. While gorillas and chimpanzees may steal the limelight, other mammals share their montane habitats. The L'Hoest’s monkey, with its distinctive white beard, is endemic to the Albertine Rift forests, as is the Rwenzori colobus – a striking black-and-white primate that moves through the treetops in large troops. Birdlife here is exceptional, with rare species such as the handsome francolin, red-collared mountain babbler, and Grauer’s broadbill – all Albertine Rift endemics found nowhere else on earth.

For birders, East Africa is a treasure chest. The southern ground hornbill – unmistakable with its imposing black frame and vivid red throat skin – strides across open grasslands from the Serengeti to southern Kenya. In the highland forests, the strange and reclusive African green broadbill flits silently through the understorey, a rare prize for even the keenest twitchers. Meanwhile, the dazzling Rwenzori turaco flashes emerald and crimson as it dashes between forest canopies in Rwanda and Uganda.

Reptiles and amphibians contribute their own layer of intrigue. Chameleons such as Jackson’s three-horned chameleon are found in Kenya and northern Tanzania, while the rare Ruwenzori climbing frog survives in the misty forests of the Albertine Rift. These small, strange creatures are reminders that the region’s biodiversity includes life forms hidden far from the tourist trails.

At Anderson & Harvey, these lesser-known species are never overlooked. The company’s commitment to meaningful, immersive safaris means guests are invited to discover the full spectrum of East African life – from the great migrations of the Serengeti to the secret movements of the civet and the delicate grace of the sitatunga. The aim is to connect travellers not only with the famous faces of the wilderness, but also with the rare, the surprising, and the easily missed.

For those willing to look beyond the Big Five, East Africa offers endless discovery. In every shadowed forest, quiet wetland, and grassy plain, life stirs – waiting to be found by those who care to notice.

Our guides - the soul of an A&H safari

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:29:24 GMT

Professionalism, expertise and knowledge are key

At Anderson & Harvey, we believe the soul of every unforgettable safari lies not only in the wildlife and landscapes but in the people who lead the experience - our expert guides. Across Tanzania’s northern circuit, our guiding team represents the highest standards of professionalism, knowledge, and respect for nature. Their dedication and passion transform each safari into a deeply rewarding journey, revealing the richness of the wilderness in ways only true experts can.

Becoming a professional safari guide in Tanzania is a demanding journey that requires formal training, rigorous testing, and continuous education. Guides must pass national certification courses administered by the Tanzania Tourist Board, covering extensive topics including wildlife biology, ecology, tracking skills, first aid, conservation principles, and guest hospitality.

But at Anderson & Harvey, we see certification as just the beginning. Our guides engage in ongoing field training and mentoring to hone their skills and stay current with the latest conservation developments and technological tools.

Experience is what truly distinguishes a great guide. The more time spent immersed in Tanzania’s ecosystems, the deeper their understanding of animal behaviour, migratory patterns, and the subtle signs hidden in spoor and vegetation. This instinctive knowledge allows our guides to anticipate wildlife movements, locate elusive species, and interpret the complex relationships that define the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and beyond.

Through decades of accumulated wisdom, Anderson & Harvey guides transform a routine game drive into a dynamic and often unpredictable adventure.

Communication skills are equally important. Our guides are natural storytellers and educators, skilled at translating scientific knowledge into engaging narratives tailored to guests’ interests and experience levels. Whether sharing the ecological role of a lion pride or the cultural traditions of Maasai communities, their passion is infectious and enhances the guests’ connection to the landscape.

Anderson & Harvey guides are adept at creating a dialogue rather than a lecture - inviting questions, encouraging observation, and fostering a spirit of discovery.

Safety and ethical conduct form the foundation of our guiding philosophy. Anderson & Harvey guides rigorously follow park regulations, maintain appropriate distances from wildlife, and ensure that guests understand and respect safari etiquette. This approach safeguards both visitor wellbeing and animal welfare, promoting sustainable tourism practices that preserve Tanzania’s wilderness for generations to come.

Our guides are also trained in emergency procedures and first aid, providing an additional layer of reassurance in remote settings.

Building a personal rapport with guests is a hallmark of Anderson & Harvey’s guiding team. Our guides are attentive to individual preferences and moods, adapting the pace and focus of game drives accordingly. They know when to offer detailed explanations and when to allow silence for reflection. Many guests cite these moments of calm connection as the most memorable part of their safari. This emotional intelligence creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere that enhances every interaction with nature.

Beyond the vehicle, our guides serve as cultural ambassadors. Many have strong ties to Maasai or other local communities, offering authentic insights into indigenous traditions, livelihoods, and conservation challenges. This adds a rich dimension to the safari experience - deepening understanding and appreciation of the people who share this land with the wildlife. Anderson & Harvey supports initiatives that empower local communities through tourism, education, and environmental stewardship, reflecting our commitment to responsible travel.

Technology is embraced thoughtfully. Our guides use GPS, satellite communications, and digital mapping to enhance navigation and safety, while ensuring these tools never intrude on the wilderness experience. This careful balance between tradition and innovation embodies Anderson & Harvey’s vision of respectful, modern safari travel.

In addition to their field expertise, Anderson & Harvey guides work closely with camps and lodges to tailor each itinerary to guest interests and seasonal variations. Their knowledge of the northern circuit’s ecology and rhythms ensures that guests encounter the best of Tanzania’s wildlife throughout the year - from the great migration in the Serengeti to the dry-season gatherings in Tarangire.

Ultimately, an Anderson & Harvey safari guide is far more than a driver or a naturalist - they are educators, conservation advocates, storytellers, and custodians of Tanzania’s wild heritage. Their skill, integrity, and empathy are the foundation upon which extraordinary safari experiences are built.

For those seeking to connect deeply with one of the world’s most iconic wildernesses, our guiding team offers an unmatched gateway to discovery, wonder, and lasting memories.

The changing face of safari

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:25:57 GMT

Modern camps and lodges showcase the future of sustainable travel

Over the past decade or so, safari accommodation in East Africa has evolved dramatically, reflecting changing traveller expectations, advances in sustainability, and a new vision for how we connect with the natural world - one that's based in authenticity and immersion. Let's find out more...

At Anderson & Harvey, our deep experience with East Africa's wilderness has given us a front-row seat to these developments. We’ve witnessed how new camps are redefining what a safari stay means - blending luxury with environmental responsibility, offering guests authentic immersion in the wild, and supporting local communities like never before.

Traditionally, safari camps focused primarily on providing guests with comfort and style after long days in the bush. While luxury remains paramount, today’s camps are raising the bar by embedding sustainability at their core. Many of the newest properties incorporate locally sourced, natural materials - including timber, canvas, and stone - that integrate seamlessly into the environment.

This approach respects the land’s heritage and minimises visual and physical impact. Elevated structures on stilts, open-sided tents, and walkways reduce disruption to vegetation and wildlife movement, a design philosophy that resonates with Anderson & Harvey’s commitment to preserving fragile ecosystems.

Renewable energy is no longer an afterthought but a central feature. Solar panels provide much of the power needed for lighting, charging stations, and camp operations. Batteries and energy-efficient systems enable camps to minimise their reliance on noisy diesel generators, dramatically reducing carbon footprints and enhancing the tranquillity of the wilderness experience.

Water management is also a priority: rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow fixtures help conserve this precious resource. Anderson & Harvey works with camps that embrace these principles, ensuring that our guests enjoy modern comforts while treading lightly on the land.

The demand for genuine connection to the environment has influenced camp size and design. Instead of sprawling lodges, there is a trend towards smaller, more intimate camps with fewer rooms - often no more than eight to 12 tents or suites. This creates a sense of exclusivity and privacy, which many travellers value highly.

The camps we partner with often feature open-air designs that dissolve the boundaries between indoors and outdoors: glass walls, spacious decks overlooking watering holes or plains, and private plunge pools that bring guests closer to nature. These design choices encourage a continuous interaction with the environment and wildlife, reinforcing Anderson & Harvey’s philosophy that a safari is as much about place as it is about animals.

But sustainability and design are only part of the story. Anderson & Harvey takes pride in supporting camps that embed social responsibility into their operations. Many collaborate closely with local communities, ensuring that tourism benefits flow directly into livelihoods, education, and healthcare.

Camps often employ and train local staff, from guiding teams to hospitality roles, fostering economic empowerment while preserving cultural heritage. These relationships are integral to the long-term conservation of East Africa’s wilderness and the wellbeing of its people.

Our guiding teams, many of whom come from local backgrounds, act as vital links between guests and community, sharing knowledge and stories that deepen understanding and respect.

Technological advances have found their place too - carefully balanced so as not to detract from the safari’s natural essence. Most camps now offer Wi-Fi and satellite communications to meet guest expectations for connectivity, yet these amenities are discreetly managed to avoid disturbing the atmosphere.

Solar lighting and battery storage allow for low-impact illumination. Luxuries like spa treatments, gourmet dining prepared with local ingredients, and private chefs have become more common, showing that today’s safari traveller can enjoy modern indulgences alongside rugged wilderness.

Authenticity continues to drive fresh safari experiences. Elevated sleep-out suites perched on stilts or platforms, open-air lounges for star gazing, and firepits overlooking savannahs create memorable settings. Night game drives, bush dinners under the stars, and cultural encounters with local communities are increasingly integrated into itineraries, curated by Anderson & Harvey’s expert team to suit individual guest preferences.

This flexibility and personalised approach are essential in a market where travellers seek unique, transformative journeys.

Looking to the future, the direction is clear: safari accommodation will continue evolving to encompass sustainability, authenticity, and comfort - values that Anderson & Harvey has championed for decades. The camps we recommend reflect this vision, balancing a light environmental footprint with exceptional service and immersive wildlife experiences.

For travel professionals designing itineraries, these developments offer exciting opportunities to meet the expectations of discerning clients while supporting conservation and community development.

Ultimately, our partners exemplify Anderson & Harvey’s philosophy: luxury that respects nature, authenticity that creates lasting memories, and partnerships that empower local people. These are the foundations of responsible safari travel in the 21st century and beyond.

Discover a secret seasonal safari circuit

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:43:54 GMT

From the Ngorongoro Highlands to the Southern Serengeti

There’s a rhythm to northern Tanzania that plays out quietly beneath the headline acts. Away from the frenzy of river crossings in the north and the year-round traffic in Seronera, there’s a seasonal circuit that runs from the Ngorongoro Highlands into the southern reaches of the Serengeti – and it offers some of the most visually and ecologically compelling safari opportunities anywhere in East Africa.

From December to March, the Southern Serengeti undergoes a transformation. What was dry and muted just months before becomes a vast green stage for the calving season of the Great Migration. The plains of Ndutu and Kusini fill with life. Wildebeest return in their hundreds of thousands, drawn by short, nutrient-rich grasses. Over a period of just a few weeks – typically in late January and February – calves are born in their tens of thousands. With them comes an influx of predators, opportunists, and drama. But to reach this spectacle, many journeys begin higher up – in the cool, misty heights of the Ngorongoro Highlands.

The Highlands themselves are often overlooked in favour of the Crater below. Yet this elevated world of rolling hills, dense forests, and volcanic outcrops offers a very different perspective. The air is crisp and the light clean. It’s not uncommon to find elephant in the forests or buffalo moving through the morning fog, but it’s the sense of scale and stillness that lingers longest. Walking safaris can be arranged in private areas here, and time spent in the Highlands offers a chance to slow the pace, reflect, and reconnect before heading out onto the plains.

From the rim, the transition to the southern Serengeti is not just a change in altitude – it’s a complete shift in mood and space. Descending onto the short-grass plains, the world opens up. Visibility stretches for miles. The land becomes elemental – defined by its emptiness, its wind, its shifting skies. In this environment, the arrival of the herds feels nothing short of miraculous.

This southern section of the Serengeti – technically part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and adjoining Serengeti National Park – is the nursery of the Migration. The wildebeest come here to drop their young because the grasses are rich in minerals, promoting healthy growth and strong survival rates. It is a scene of extraordinary abundance. For a few short months, the predators have more food than they know what to do with. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas and jackals are everywhere – often seen hunting in daylight, often just minutes from camp. Photographers come for the light and the drama. Naturalists come for the clarity of the ecosystem. There is little need to chase sightings – the action often unfolds right in front of you.

Yet for all this, the area receives far fewer visitors than the better-known central Serengeti or the northern reaches along the Mara River. There are fewer permanent camps. The road network is more basic. But for those prepared to travel here during the green season, the rewards are immense. The camps that operate in this region during the calving months are often seasonal and lightweight, designed to have minimal impact and to move with the herds. This mobile, responsive approach to safari allows for extraordinary proximity to the action, without the crowds that often characterise high season in other parts of the ecosystem.

Timing, of course, is everything. The rains that bring new grass can start any time from late November. By December, the herds begin arriving. January and February are the peak of calving, and by March, the southern plains are still productive but the build-up to departure has begun. Come April, the wildebeest begin drifting west and north again – the landscape dries, and the circuit fades from view once more.

For those planning itineraries across this period, the combination of the Ngorongoro Highlands and the southern plains creates a narrative arc that is hard to match. It’s a journey from altitude to openness, from the quiet, ancient forests of the highlands to the explosive drama of life on the savannah. And it’s a reminder that the migration is not just a northern story – the spectacle of mass movement, birth and predation begins here, in the south, long before the river crossings.

This seasonal circuit also offers strategic advantages for longer or more tailored safaris. It avoids the congestion of the central areas during high season. It allows for greater intimacy at sightings. And it delivers some of the most atmospheric landscapes in the region – from sunrise mists on the Crater rim to electrical storms over the plains. It’s a route that feels more like a narrative than a destination – with its own pace, its own logic, and a clear beginning, middle and end.

In the broader story of the Serengeti ecosystem, the southern circuit may not always take centre stage. But for those in the know – and those looking to offer something truly different – it remains one of the most authentic, dramatic and visually spectacular journeys in East Africa. More than a detour – it’s a deep dive into the cycles of life that have defined this landscape for millennia.

Why the Ngorongoro Crater still captivates

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:40:16 GMT

A fresh look at an old favourite

The Ngorongoro Crater has been on the safari circuit for decades, drawing visitors from all over the world to its remarkable landscape. For some, this makes it feel like a "must-see" box to tick before moving on to more remote or lesser-known parts of Tanzania. Yet to see the Crater only as a quick stop en-route to the Serengeti is to overlook its extraordinary richness and complexity. This is no ordinary wildlife destination – it is a place of unusual abundance, drama and scale that remains as relevant to a modern safari as it ever was.

What makes the Crater so special – and why does it continue to capture the imagination? Part of the answer lies in its unique geography. Formed around 2-million years ago when a massive volcano collapsed, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact caldera in the world. At 610m deep and 260 km sq in area, it is a self-contained ecosystem unlike anywhere else.

Its steep, forested walls and broad grassy floor create a natural amphitheatre where life flourishes in extraordinary density. This bowl-like formation has resulted in one of Africa’s most reliable wildlife concentrations. Lions, hyena, elephant, buffalo and an impressive variety of plains game are present year-round, thanks to the permanent water sources that sustain the Crater even in the dry season. Nowhere else in East Africa can such a broad cross-section of species be seen in so compact an area, making the Crater a true microcosm of the greater Tanzanian wilderness.

One of the Crater’s most distinctive features is its black-maned lion population – larger and sometimes more confrontational than lions elsewhere, thanks to the enclosed environment and high competition for territory. Cheetah are also occasionally seen here, though they tend to prefer the open plains of the Serengeti. Spotted hyenas are highly visible and vocal, often outnumbering the lions and demonstrating the fascinating complexity of predator dynamics in this confined space.

For those interested in rare species, the Crater offers a notable draw – one of the few places in Tanzania where the endangered black rhino can be seen with some reliability. A small but carefully protected population inhabits the Crater floor, offering one of the best opportunities to complete sightings of the Big Five within a single game drive.

Elephants in the Crater are also distinctive. Mostly older bulls, they graze the wetlands and grasslands alone or in small bachelor groups, their vast tusks gleaming against the green of the swamps. Breeding herds tend to stay on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Highlands where the forests provide shelter and browse – a reminder that while the Crater itself is famous, the wider Conservation Area has a rich ecological story of its own.

But Ngorongoro’s fascination goes beyond wildlife alone. The setting is unforgettable. As morning mist lifts off the Crater rim and spill into the caldera, the scene below emerges slowly – patches of yellow grassland, sparkling soda lakes, and marshes where hippo wallow. Flamingos gather in the shallow waters of Lake Magadi; buffalo and zebra move in restless herds across the plains. Above it all, the forested rim encloses the Crater like a natural wall, adding to the sense of timelessness and isolation. It is hard not to feel the scale and power of the place, as if looking into the heart of some ancient world.

Another part of the Crater’s ongoing appeal is its accessibility. Unlike many of Tanzania’s wild places, this landscape can be comfortably explored in a single day, making it ideal for safari-goers with limited time. Well-maintained roads allow easy descent into the Crater floor, and the density of game means rewarding sightings are almost guaranteed, even on shorter drives. For those on longer itineraries, the Crater provides an excellent start – a way to see much of Tanzania’s famous wildlife before moving on to the open expanses of the Serengeti or the remote beauty of Tarangire.

Yet for all its popularity, the Crater remains an ever-changing place. The seasons shape the experience – wet months bring lush green grass and dramatic skies, while the dry season sees animals drawn tightly to water sources, making for concentrated viewing. Different times of day offer their own moods, from the soft light and cool air of early morning to the stark, sunlit drama of midday. No two visits feel quite the same.

There is also more to Ngorongoro than the Crater itself. The wider Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to Maasai communities, whose traditional grazing practices have shaped the landscape for centuries. The highlands surrounding the Crater are dotted with ancient forests, streams and coffee plantations, offering walking opportunities and cultural experiences that are rarely explored by most visitors. Olduvai Gorge – one of the most significant archaeological sites in human history – lies within this area, linking the natural beauty of Ngorongoro with the deep story of human origins.

In many ways, the Crater’s reputation as a classic safari stop is well deserved – but this does not mean it is merely routine or predictable. For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and first-time safari travellers, it offers one of the most concentrated and rewarding game viewing experiences in Africa. For repeat visitors, there are still ways to see it afresh – in a different season, from a lodge on the rim with sweeping sunrise views, or by combining it with explorations into the highlands and cultural landscapes beyond.

The enduring magic of Ngorongoro lies in this blend of familiarity and surprise. No matter how many times one visits, the sheer abundance of life, the beauty of the setting, and the sense of standing in a place shaped by deep geological and human time remain as captivating as ever. In a safari landscape constantly offering new destinations and experiences, the Crater holds its ground – not as a faded icon, but as a living, breathing part of Tanzania’s wilderness story.

Understanding the Serengeti

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:41:27 GMT

Explore this legendary national park with A&H

The Serengeti is not one single place, but rather a vast and varied landscape, with distinct regions that offer very different safari experiences depending on the time of year and what visitors most want to see. From the drama of the northern river crossings to the quiet, predator-rich plains of the south, choosing where to spend time in the Serengeti is one of the most important decisions in planning a truly rewarding safari.

At more than 14,000 sq km, the Serengeti cannot be experienced in its entirety on a single trip. Its size, diversity of habitats and changing seasons create a landscape that feels entirely different depending on where you go. Understanding the character of its main regions – north, central, south, east, and west – can help make sense of this remarkable wilderness and shape an itinerary that matches personal safari interests.

The northern Serengeti is famous for one reason above all others: the Great Migration river crossings. From July to October, this area becomes the stage for one of the most thrilling natural spectacles in Africa as hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra gather to cross the Mara River, risking crocodile-filled waters and predatory ambushes along the way.

This is where the classic scenes of the migration are filmed, and in these months the region draws visitors from all over the world. Outside of this season, the north becomes much quieter, and resident game like giraffe, elephant, and lion remain. The landscape here is rolling and open, studded with hills and granite kopjes, and feels less densely packed with safari vehicles than the busier central areas.

Central Serengeti – the Seronera region – is the most visited part of the park, and for good reason. Its year-round water sources and mixed terrain of grassland, woodland, and rocky outcrops support a consistently high concentration of wildlife. This is the best place to see leopard and cheetah at almost any time of year, and the resident lion prides are famously large and visible.

The Seronera area is also where many of the permanent lodges and tented camps are located, making it a natural hub for first-time visitors. However, in peak months the central Serengeti can feel busy, with many vehicles gathered around sightings. For some travellers, this density can take away from the sense of wilderness, but for others the guarantee of game action more than makes up for it.

The southern Serengeti is an entirely different proposition. From December to March, the migration herds move down to these short-grass plains near Ndutu and Kusini, drawn by the promise of fresh grazing. This is also where the wildebeest give birth and where you can see the magic of new life springing into action.

The landscape itself is wide, open, and elemental – a place of vast skies and rolling grasslands that seems to go on forever. Outside of these months, the southern plains are quiet and game viewing is less reliable, but for those who travel at the right time, this area offers one of the Serengeti’s most intense and rewarding wildlife experiences.

Less visited and more mysterious is the eastern Serengeti. This is a land of open plains and far fewer vehicles, particularly suited to those seeking remoteness and space. The wildlife here is more subtle – cheetah thrive on the open grasslands, and rarer species like caracal and serval can sometimes be seen. Birdlife is excellent, and the area’s seasonal pans attract flamingos after the rains.

For guests wanting to feel the Serengeti’s raw, unpeopled spirit, the eastern region offers a genuine sense of discovery. However, accommodation options here are fewer, and access can be more complicated, making this region best suited to those willing to venture away from the standard routes.

Often overlooked but no less fascinating is the Western Corridor. Stretching out towards Lake Victoria, this region of the Serengeti is defined by two important rivers – the Grumeti and the Mbalageti – which sustain a rich belt of riverine forest and attract a diverse array of wildlife. Between May and July, the migration herds pass through here on their journey north, providing dramatic sightings as wildebeest and zebra cross the Grumeti River – often watched closely by enormous crocodiles, some of the largest found in Africa.

Even outside the migration window, the Western Corridor has much to offer. The riverine environments support resident populations of hippo, elephant, and buffalo, while the surrounding forests are home to colobus monkeys and an excellent variety of birdlife. This area also has a reputation for its large lion prides and regular leopard sightings, especially in the quieter months when visitor numbers are low.

Because of its location and habitat mix, the Western Corridor offers a safari experience that feels distinct from the open plains to the east or south. There is a sense of being on the edge of something wilder, closer to the forested zones of Lake Victoria, and the diversity of the ecosystem reflects this. It's also a good option for those wanting to explore less-frequented parts of the Serengeti while still enjoying excellent wildlife densities and the occasional drama of river crossings.

Of course, these regions are not isolated from each other. The migration moves between them in an ancient, instinctive cycle shaped by rainfall and grass growth. A well-planned safari may combine two or even three regions depending on the season, allowing travellers to experience both predator-rich territories and the great herds. Timing is everything. Those wanting to see the drama of the river crossings need to be in the north in the middle of the year; those fascinated by predator action should head south in January or February to take advantage of the calving season in and around Ndutu, for example.

For classic game drives with reliable big cat sightings, the central Serengeti remains a strong bet at almost any time. For solitude and space, the east offers rare rewards. And for an atmospheric blend of river, forest, and plains, with the bonus of migration river crossings minus the northern crowds, the Western Corridor is an excellent and underrated choice.

There is no single "best" part of the Serengeti – only the best part for the experience each guest is seeking. First-time safari goers may find the central area reassuringly rich in sightings, while seasoned travellers may lean towards the south or east for a wilder, less predictable experience. Photographers may time their trips for the light and drama of the north, while those after a quieter migration spectacle may be delighted by the Western Corridor’s hidden drama on the Grumeti.

The key is to think of the Serengeti not as one destination, but as a collection of evolving landscapes – each with its own mood, its own wildlife patterns, and its own rewards. Chat to our team of talented travel designers to find out more!

The green season safari guide

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:37:44 GMT

Discover the magic of Tanzania at its most beautiful

For many, the natural temptation when planning a safari to Tanzania is to aim for the dry season - July to October - when the Northern Circuit is focussed on the Great Migration and the weather is reliably dry. And while this period will always be popular (for good reason), those in the know also understand the quiet brilliance of the green season: a spectacular window of safari possibility that runs from November through to May, often overlooked but deeply rewarding. This time of year holds persuasive benefits - not only for wildlife and wilderness lovers but also for guests seeking value, exclusivity, and a quieter safari rhythm. Let's find out why...

At the heart of the green season is the great southern Serengeti calving spectacle. For approximately six weeks, starting from late January, the vast herds of wildebeest and zebra settle on the rich, short-grass plains of the Ndutu and southern Serengeti regions. Over 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every day during the height of calving - a staggering figure that transforms the plains into one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife theatres.

For predators, this abundance is an irresistible drawcard. Lions prowl openly in the daylight hours; cheetahs, perfectly adapted for these open plains, are often seen stalking; and the elusive spotted hyena becomes an ever-present shadow in the background. This is predator-prey drama at its rawest, and guests travelling in the green season are frequently rewarded with exceptional hunting scenes that rival the Mara River crossings for sheer intensity.

There are some great points to consider too. First, lower rates are often made available during the green season. Anderson & Harvey is renowned for guaranteeing the best rates possible in Tanzania thanks to its extensive list of trusted partners so when it comes to green season safaris, there's no one better at getting you value for money.

Green season availability is also markedly better than in peak months, which is especially valuable when accommodating last-minute requests or fitting multi-generational family groups into single camps. When we are working to tailor bespoke journeys for you and your clients this flexibility can be an unexpected blessing.

The green season also delivers solitude - something in increasingly short supply in other safari hotspots. Travellers who value exclusivity and space will find the southern Serengeti a revelation at this time of year. Game-viewing vehicles are few, the plains feel endless, and guests frequently enjoy sightings of lion, cheetah or large herds without another vehicle in sight. For repeat safari-goers - those who have done the Migration crossings or the Ngorongoro Crater in high season - this can be an irresistible pitch: East Africa without the crowds.

A further advantage, often overlooked, is the photographic quality of this time of year. The landscape - lush, alive, and punctuated by dramatic skies - provides superb backdrops for wildlife photography. Predators are easier to spot against the brilliant green grasses, and the softer, more diffused light (thanks to occasional passing storms) is ideal for capturing striking images. There are also baby animals everywhere and the skies are filled migrant birds, so for those with even casual photography interests, this is worth flagging - many end up returning home with far more impressive photographic records than from a dusty dry-season safari.

Weather can concern some, but here the reality is often better than the perception. The green season is not the wet season proper; the short rains of November and December have usually passed, and the long rains of April and May are still weeks away. January through March typically sees occasional dramatic storms - short, sharp and thrilling - but far more sunshine than many guests expect. Temperatures are warm but not oppressive, and the grasslands are at their most nourishing and picturesque.

Moreover, for those looking at longer itineraries, the green season allows for thoughtful combination trips. The Ngorongoro Crater remains productive, Lake Manyara offers lush forest scenery and active birdlife, and Tarangire - though quieter - retains pockets of resident game. Safari circuits can be planned to include the southern Serengeti followed by downtime in Zanzibar, which is dry, warm, and perfect for beach extensions in these months. The result is a deeply satisfying balance of wilderness and relaxation, well-suited to honeymooners, families, and active retirees.

We favour low-impact, high-quality safari experiences, so the green season aligns perfectly with our brand values: fewer vehicles, better wildlife moments, and a sense of authentic wilderness discovery. All of this makes the green season a persuasive option. For seasoned travellers, the promise of predator action, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed safari tempo could be the fresh angle they didn’t know they wanted. Likewise, photographers, birders, and natural history buffs will immediately understand the appeal.

Done right, this is not a compromise season - it is the safari connoisseur’s secret.

Culture, community and connection

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:27:53 GMT

How A&H goes beyond wildlife in Tanzania

Tanzania is known for its wildlife, its big skies, and its even bigger landscapes. From the plains of the Serengeti to the baobab-studded wilderness of Tarangire, it’s a place that stirs something ancient and elemental in all of us. But the soul of Tanzania doesn’t just lie in its wild things. It lives in its people. In stories shared over campfire smoke, in the quiet strength of tradition, in moments of cultural connection that go deeper than a quick village stop or souvenir stall...

At Anderson & Harvey, we believe these experiences - when done right - are just as vital as the wildlife. Not every safari has to include them. But when they’re woven in thoughtfully, they have the power to transform a trip into something far more resonant.

What we don't do is staged

There is a difference between culture as performance and culture as lived experience. We avoid the former at all costs. We do not send your guests into manufactured “villages” where communities are expected to pose, dance or sell. We work with partners who have longstanding relationships with local communities - partnerships that are built on trust, respect, and a shared sense of responsibility.

If our guests spend time with the Hadzabe near Lake Eyasi - one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer communities in East Africa - it’s because the encounter is guided by people who’ve spent years building meaningful, sensitive relationships with them. It’s done with permission, context, and care. The same goes for time spent with the Datoga, the pastoralist metalworkers of the region. These are not tourist box-ticks. They are windows into a way of life that is vanishing, and they demand nuance, humility and openness from those who participate.

Community-led, not curated

We believe the most rewarding cultural experiences are those that are community-led. That might be a chance to walk with a Maasai guide in the private conservancies outside Tarangire, learning not just about tracking but about identity, land rights, and how pastoralist traditions are evolving in a modern world. It might be time spent at a local market with a Tanzanian chef who’ll later prepare the day’s finds over an open fire. It could be a visit to a community-run project supported by the camp your guests stay in - perhaps a beading cooperative, a school garden, or a clean water initiative - where the impact of tourism is visible, not theoretical.

Because the truth is: cultural connection on safari can’t be packaged. It can only be facilitated.

Why it matters

Your guests often come for the big cats and wildlife action. But they leave remembering the conversations. The spontaneous laughter shared with a Maasai host. The rhythm of a language they’ve never heard before. The stories told by the night watchman under a sky full of stars. These are the moments that stay with you long after the passport is stamped.

And for our travel partners, these are the moments that elevate an itinerary. That add richness, depth and heart. A walking safari might offer perspective on wildlife behaviour, but a morning spent with a local herbalist reveals an entirely different way of knowing the bush. It shifts the lens. It deepens the story.

Safaris with soul

We’re not in the business of ticking boxes. We’re in the business of crafting journeys that honour both guest and host. In Tanzania, that means going beyond the game drives and lodge luxury to introduce clients to the people who shape and steward these landscapes.

Culture isn’t an optional extra - it’s a vital thread in the tapestry. When handled with respect, it adds texture to the safari narrative. It brings meaning. And it reminds us that the wild isn’t empty. It’s lived in, loved, and fiercely protected.

And when you’re ready to build a safari that connects on every level - we’re here to guide the way.

The things that make an A&H journey remarkable

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:23:21 GMT

A guide to the Anderson & Harvey ethos

In an age of endless choice and ever-louder noise, there’s something quietly radical about doing things with intention. At Anderson & Harvey, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all safari itineraries, nor do we chase trends or overcomplicate what’s inherently extraordinary. Instead, we believe in precision, depth, and the subtle art of matching the right guest to the right experience. This is not about ticking boxes. It’s about knowing which details matter, and crafting safaris that feel like they couldn’t have been made for anyone else...

We are a luxury safari outfitter - but that’s really just the beginning.

We specialise in curating highly bespoke safaris and beach holidays across East Africa, taking in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Zanzibar. Whether we’re crafting a classic family itinerary through the Serengeti and Masai Mara, or tailoring a conservation-led private journey that includes gorilla trekking in Rwanda and coastal downtime in Zanzibar, the principle remains the same: excellence without ego.

We work exclusively through the trade, with our team of talented travel designers collaborating with a network of top industry partners to deliver safaris that are elevated, authentic, and meticulously thought through.

More than logistics

A great safari is never just about accommodation and transfers. It’s about rhythm. Pacing. The gentle build-up of moments - some quietly moving, others wildly exhilarating - that come together to create something unforgettable. That’s where we come in.

Anderson & Harvey is not a booking engine, a sales platform or a faceless DMC. We are a small, hands-on team of safari obsessives who live and breathe East Africa. We’ve spent decades nurturing relationships with the region’s most trusted operators and guides. We know the difference between a good tented camp or lodge and a life-changing one.

We’ve walked the dry riverbeds, tested the sundowner spots, slept in the beds, flown the bush planes, and shared fireside stories with the people who make these places special. It’s not about having a long list of "options" - it’s about having the right ones. And knowing when to recommend them.

Crafted, not compiled

There’s a certain alchemy to building a great itinerary. It’s not just about location, it’s about seasonality, flow, and tone. An early morning balloon safari in the Serengeti or Tarangire, followed by an al fresco breakfast at a private outpost. An unhurried walking safari in Tarangire before a night under canvas. The magic isn’t in the headline activities, it’s in the way they’re combined, the context they’re given, the people who bring them to life.

This is why we remain proudly independent and fiercely selective. Every camp, lodge and boutique hotel we work with has been chosen because it offers something meaningful, whether that’s exceptional guiding, rare access, or a genuine commitment to conservation. We do not pad out our itineraries with crowd-pleasers. We don’t upsell. And we never compromise quality for the sake of a deal. If it’s in your itinerary, it’s there for a reason.

Your reputation is our reputation

We work exclusively with the trade, and we take that responsibility seriously. When you introduce your client to Anderson & Harvey, we know what you’re putting on the line and we honour that trust with the utmost professionalism, discretion and care. We act as an extension of your brand in East Africa, providing real-time insight, round-the-clock local support, and a level of service that reflects your standards as much as ours.

Behind every itinerary is a conversation. Behind every safari is a story. We take the time to understand your client’s preferences, pace, and expectations, and we work with you, not around you, to create something that fits.

Luxury is context

To us, luxury doesn’t always mean marble bathrooms or private plunge pools. Sometimes, it means being the only vehicle at a cheetah sighting. Sometimes, it’s sleeping under canvas and hearing lions roar from across the valley. At other times, it’s having dinner under the stars with a brilliant local chef and stories that keep the fire crackling long after dessert.

We design experiences that have emotional resonance. That stay with your client long after they’ve returned home and feel real because they are.

Who we are

We are not a volume business. We’re not trying to be everywhere. We are deeply focused on the regions we know best, and on building itineraries that reflect the depth of our relationships there. We have long-standing partnerships with East Africa’s most reputable brands and a team that lives between the cities and the bush, never far from the ground truth. That gives us the ability to respond quickly, pivot when needed, and deliver with consistency and confidence.

More than that, we care. We’re personally invested in every journey we plan. We celebrate the small wins, obsess over the details, and take pride in the fact that our travellers come away changed.

The Anderson & Harvey promise

We're not about throwing around words like "exclusive" or "tailor-made." We're about what it actually feels like to travel, to arrive at a remote airstrip and be greeted by a guide who already knows your name. To sleep in a mobile tented camp that was moved just days before so that you’d be near the migration. To stand on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater with a thermos of coffee, no other guests in sight, because we knew exactly when to get you there.

That’s the kind of detail we live for. That’s the kind of safari we believe in.

Work with us

Whether you’re a seasoned Africa specialist or new to selling the region, we’re here to make your life easier and your clients’ journeys better. If you’re ready to build something exceptional - something crafted with care and designed to endure - then we’d love to work with you.

Welcome to Anderson & Harvey. Where every journey matters.

Where we began – Tanzania's Cradle of Humankind

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 09:00:53 GMT

Discover our ancestry at mesmerising Olduvai

Long before cities rose and borders were drawn, long before history had a name or language had shape, there was a rift in the Earth in what is now northern Tanzania. A quiet seam in the landscape, cradled between the Ngorongoro Highlands and the Serengeti Plains. This is Olduvai Gorge - one of the most important palaeoanthropological sites on the planet and, quite literally, the ground beneath our collective feet. It’s here that some of the earliest evidence of humankind has been unearthed. Bones, tools, and ancient footprints tell the story of our first steps - not metaphorically, but literally. If Africa is the birthplace of humanity, Olduvai is the delivery room.

It’s a place of staggering historical weight, but it doesn’t shout. The landscape itself is modest - gentle ridges, red rock, thorn scrub. You wouldn’t guess, just by looking, that the secrets of millions of years lie beneath the dust. But when you begin to walk, and listen, and dig a little deeper, it becomes clear: this is not just another stop on safari. This is a site of origin.

For more than a century palaeontologists have been piecing together a timeline that stretches back nearly 2-million years. Here you’ll find the evidence of early Homo habilis, Homo erectus, and the famed Zinj skull - Australopithecus boisei - discovered by Mary Leakey in 1959, which changed the story of human evolution forever.

And then there are the footprints at nearby Laetoli, preserved in volcanic ash for over 3,6-million years - the oldest known hominin footprints ever discovered. They walk in a straight line, left-right-left, evidence not just of upright walking, but of a life lived in family groups, a social bond, a journey. There is something breathtakingly human in these traces. They narrow the vastness of history into a few quiet steps. These were not creatures of myth or abstraction. These were people. And they walked here.

Visiting Olduvai Gorge is not a polished museum experience. It’s raw, real, and elemental. You stand on the rim of the gorge with the wind tugging at your sleeves, looking down into a place where time collapses. The Olduvai Gorge Museum, small but immensely informative, gives context to the finds and their global significance, and local guides - often descended from the communities that have called this area home for centuries - offer a grounding perspective. They remind visitors that this isn’t a story owned by the West or by science alone. It’s a story that belongs to Africa, and to the world.

For those on safari through the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Olduvai is more than just a detour. It is an anchoring point. Amid the grandeur of migrating wildebeest and lion prides in golden grass, it can be easy to think of safari as spectacle. But Olduvai offers something deeper. It ties the wild beauty of Tanzania not only to the present but to the deepest past. It asks travellers to consider not just where they are, but where they come from. To look out over the land and understand - this is where we began.

And somehow, in the context of Africa’s most famous safari landscapes, that knowledge adds another layer of wonder. You begin to see the land not only as home to wildlife but as home, full stop. Everything feels closer: the dust on your boots, the bones beneath the earth, the fire that might have been kindled here a million years ago. This is not history preserved under glass. It’s living, breathing legacy.

In a world that moves too fast and forgets too easily, Olduvai Gorge is a kind of sacred pause. It reminds us that the story of humanity didn’t start in a lab or a library - it started with stone tools and ancient footsteps, in the red earth of Tanzania. And it’s still being written. For those who make the journey, it’s not just another highlight. It’s a homecoming.

Talk to us about including Olduvai in your next East African itinerary.

Kids on Safari? Absolutely!

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 08:55:42 GMT

Make it a family affair with Anderson & Harvey

There’s a growing safari trend that no operator should ignore: families are bringing the kids into the wild. Increasingly, safari is becoming a multi-generational experience - something to be shared across ages. And while the idea of taking children into big game country may once have felt niche or even unworkable, the reality today is quite the opposite. With the right structure, the right properties, and the right guiding teams, a family safari isn’t just feasible - it’s one of the most rewarding, high-value trips you can offer. And Anderson & Harvey is ahead of the curve!

For agents and operators, the opportunity here is twofold. Firstly, families tend to travel in small groups, often booking multiple rooms or exclusive-use villas, with a higher spend per trip and strong interest in bespoke services. Secondly, when it’s done well, a family safari becomes the kind of holiday people talk about for years - and recommend widely. There’s a multiplier effect in play here: a single family can generate multiple future bookings across their networks.

So, what makes a safari child-friendly? It’s not about adding cartoon characters to the sundowners or dumbing down the experience. It’s about curating a journey that taps into the natural curiosity of younger travellers while still meeting the comfort and experience standards the adults expect. The best family safaris are immersive, educational, and - most importantly - adaptable. Shorter drives, interactive activities, downtime at camp, and plenty of space for discovery all matter. The wildlife, of course, does the heavy lifting, but it’s the guide who makes or breaks it. A truly great family guide knows how to shift gears between guests, turning a bird sighting into a riddle for the kids, a photographic moment for the parents, and a biology lesson rolled into a story for everyone.

From a planning perspective, it helps to understand the properties that have leaned into this demographic with real intent. Not every lodge that allows children is equipped to host them well. The best in class offer flexible dining, interleading rooms or family tents, swimming pools, and engaging activity lists that go far beyond colouring books. Think junior tracking sessions, archery lessons, wildlife identification challenges, or even mock game drives led by the children themselves. Many also offer "bush schools" where local guides and staff introduce the younger guests to everything from animal behaviour and bird calls to conservation ethics. We know the best lodges and camps to select for family safaris, so feel free to pick our brains.

When you’re building itineraries, consider routing that reduces fatigue and maximises variety. Fly-in safaris help keep the energy high and the logistics smooth. Adding in cultural elements - visits to local schools, markets, or community projects - can round out the experience and provide broader context, especially for older children and teens.

And if you're new to the family market, working with us as your preferred East African DMC is key, because a successful family safari is not just about knowing which lodges accept under-12s - it’s about understanding what makes the trip work for all ages, and having the back-up plans in place when things go off-script (as they often do with children).

There’s also an important psychological shift to recognise. For many families, the decision to bring children on safari stems from a desire to break out of the ordinary. This is the antidote to screen time and over-scheduling. It’s a reconnection - both with nature and with each other. And that’s a powerful narrative for agents to tap into. The family safari market isn’t about marketing down. It’s about elevating experience - positioning safari as something extraordinary, not in spite of the children, but because of them.

It’s also a market that’s inherently loyal. Families who safari together tend to return. Maybe they start small with tried and tested routes and circuits but they soon graduate to something more remote and bespoke. Maybe they book out a private villa this time, and next year it’s a walking safari for teens. The appetite grows, and with the right experiences, so does the confidence.

At Anderson & Harvey, we work exclusively with trade partners to help craft safaris that cater to this growing market with the kind of detail, precision, and creativity it demands. From lodge selection to guide pairing, routing to logistics, we’re here to support you in delivering family safaris that aren’t just possible - they’re exceptional.

Because when it’s done right, a family safari becomes more than a holiday. It becomes a memory that anchors generations. And in a world that’s finally learning to value experiences over things, that’s a story worth selling.

Get in touch to find out more!

The specialised safari specialists!

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:34:59 GMT

From birding to wellness and everything in between

East Africa has long been at the pinnacle of safari experiences, famed for its iconic wildlife, vast savannahs, and dramatic landscapes. But for the discerning traveller seeking a deeper, more tailored connection with nature, specialised safaris provide a whole new level of adventure. From wildlife photography and birding to walking and women-only safaris, these immersive journeys allow guests to explore the region's natural wonders in ways that go far beyond the traditional game drive.

At Anderson & Harvey, we don’t just provide a safari — we create a tailored, fully guided experience designed around the specific interests of each guest. Whether it’s photography, birding, walking safaris, or any other specialised adventure, we ensure that every moment is crafted to meet and exceed expectations.

With a passion for East Africa’s natural beauty and a commitment to providing intimate, immersive experiences, we stand apart in offering exceptional safari experiences in the heart of this extraordinary region.

Through the lens

Wildlife photography is one of the most popular specialised safari experiences in East Africa. The landscapes are awe-inspiring and the wildlife exceptional and our expert guides know the intricacies of light, animal behaviour, and location, ensuring that each moment becomes a stunning photograph.

Guests can rely on being given the perfect vantage points for capturing moments of natural beauty, whether it’s the early morning light over the Serengeti or an intimate encounter with a gorilla family. Anderson & Harvey works with professional photographers to ensure the right approach for every shot, whether for budding amateurs or seasoned pros.

Feathered friends

Birding in East Africa is another exceptional way to connect with the wilderness. With over 1,100 species across the region, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. From Uganda’s swampy wetlands to Tanzania’s rolling hills, the diversity of habitats means that guests will encounter some of the world’s most colourful and rare birds.

We use experienced birding guides who know the best locations and best times to visit. We design birding safaris that maximise the chances of spotting endemic and migratory species while offering guests a deeper connection with the environments they’re exploring.

Walking on the wild side

For those seeking a more intimate engagement with nature, walking safaris in East Africa provide the ultimate opportunity. These safaris allow guests to connect with the land on a more personal level, tracing animal tracks, listening to the sounds of the bush, and learning about the local flora and fauna.

Walking safaris are led by expert guides with an intimate knowledge of the ecosystems they explore. Whether it's the open savannahs of Tarangire, tracking primates in the forests of Uganda, or following the trails of elephants in Kenya's Amboseli, our walking safaris are designed for guests who want a slower, more immersive experience in the wild.

Take to the saddle

Horse-riding safaris offer a unique perspective of East Africa's stunning landscapes. There’s something magical about galloping alongside herds of zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle, or catching a glimpse of a lion in the distance. Anderson & Harvey partners with select lodges offering horse-riding safaris, ensuring that each ride is led by experienced guides and horse handlers.

Guests can explore East Africa’s beauty from a completely different angle, whether trotting across the Masai Mara or riding across the Kenyan wilderness. For those looking to add a sense of adventure and freedom to their safari, horse-riding safaris are a thrilling addition to any itinerary.

Angling paradise

Fishing safaris offer a serene yet adventurous way to experience East Africa's rivers and lakes. Whether casting a line into Uganda’s Lake Victoria and White Nile for the massive Nile perch or fishing in the cool waters of Lake Tanganyika, East Africa offers some of the world’s best freshwater fishing.

Anderson & Harvey’s can arrange tailored fishing safaris that cater to guests looking for a quiet retreat on the water, with expert guides who know the best fishing spots and the techniques required to catch some of the region's most prized fish. Our fishing safaris also allow guests to enjoy the tranquillity of East Africa’s landscapes while reconnecting with nature in a peaceful, focused way.

Body, mind and soul

Wellness safaris are gaining in popularity as travellers seek not only adventure but also rejuvenation and tranquillity. Whether it’s yoga sessions set against the backdrop of the Serengeti’s open plains or meditation retreats on the beaches of Zanzibar, East Africa offers the perfect setting for holistic wellness experiences.

We can offer bespoke wellness itineraries that combine fitness, mindfulness, and relaxation with the natural beauty of the region. Guests can enjoy guided yoga sessions, spa treatments, and wellness workshops at select luxury lodges, ensuring that their safari is not just an adventure but also an opportunity for personal restoration and rejuvenation.

What women want?

For those seeking a more women-centric experience, women-only safaris provide the answer for either solo female travellers or groups of women travelling together. These safaris create a space where guests can bond over shared experiences, from walking safaris and game drives to cultural exchanges and wildlife conservation efforts.

Anderson & Harvey curates these safaris with the unique needs of women in mind, bringing in specialists who add invaluable local knowledge and expertise to every aspect of the journey. Guests on women-only safaris can connect with like-minded travellers, deepen their understanding of conservation efforts, and explore the wilds of East Africa in a safe, supportive setting.

The great gorilla trekking guide

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:28:28 GMT

Handy tips and important info from A&H

Gorilla trekking is the ultimate bucket-list experience. For anyone seeking a profound connection with nature, few experiences can rival a face-to-face encounter with the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. In the mist-shrouded heights of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, these magnificent creatures roam freely in their natural habitat. But which is the most suitable for your guests? What's the terrain like? What does it cost? We've come up with this handy guide to help you navigate the pros and cons...

The gorilla trekking journey is a deeply personal one — a combination of adventure, wildlife conservation, and emotional connection to a rare and endangered species. Guiding guests through this life-affirming adventure goes beyond simply knowing the trails.

It requires a deep understanding of the journey — the permits, the terrain, the expectations, and the unique elements of both Uganda and Rwanda. This is where we come in, ensuring your guests not only have an unforgettable experience but do so with the highest level of comfort and safety. Let's take a look at what's involved...

Permit: securing the golden ticket

Gorilla trekking permits are the key to unlocking access to these awe-inspiring creatures. But securing one is no simple task. The permits act as a "golden ticket" into the world of mountain gorillas, and for good reason. Both Rwanda and Uganda regulate their gorilla treks with strict quotas to protect the gorillas’ fragile populations and their sensitive habitats. The permits ensure that only a limited number of people venture into these pristine rainforests each day, keeping the impact on the environment and the gorillas minimal.

In Rwanda, securing a permit can be competitive. The prices are as follows (as of March 2025):

Foreign non-residents: $1,500 USD

Foreign residents: $500 USD

Rwandan and East African citizens: $200 USD

In Uganda, the cost is slightly more affordable:

Foreign non-residents: $800 USD

Foreign residents: $700 USD

East African citizens: Around $80 USD

Other African passport holders: $500 USD

Both countries are strict about limiting the number of daily trekkers to reduce environmental impact, making it essential to book well in advance — ideally six to nine months before your desired trekking date. This not only secures a spot but allows trekkers to plan their entire experience without stress, ensuring they get the most out of this rare opportunity.

Conditions for trekkers: fitness, age, and responsibility

Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding adventure. The terrain can be steep, muddy, and unpredictable, which makes the journey even more exhilarating. Treks range in duration from a challenging one-hour hike to a full day of navigating through dense undergrowth. It’s not just about the final encounter with the gorillas — the trek itself is often a test of endurance, pushing trekkers through thick foliage, across streams, and up rugged hills. Depending on the group you're assigned to, treks can last anywhere from one to eight hours, but every step is worth it when you finally catch sight of the gorillas.

A moderate to high level of fitness is recommended, as well as appropriate footwear for traversing muddy paths and uneven terrain. The trails can be slippery, so sturdy boots with ankle support and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.

Age is also a consideration: trekkers must be at least 15 years old. And due to the delicate health of mountain gorillas, anyone showing signs of illness (cold, cough, etc) will be prohibited from trekking. This is an important health protocol to prevent the transmission of human diseases to the gorillas, who are extremely susceptible to respiratory infections.

Uganda vs Rwanda: the great debate

When it comes to choosing between Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking, it’s a matter of preference and what your guests seek from the experience. Let’s explore both destinations in detail:

Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the beating heart of gorilla trekking in the region. Here, trekkers enter dense, untouched rainforests where the air is thick with the sounds of wildlife. The terrain is raw and untamed — a far cry from the more groomed paths of Rwanda. Bwindi’s dense vegetation and rugged landscape make for a more physically challenging trek, but the reward is immense. Trekkers can expect to spend up to several hours navigating through thick forest before reaching one of the habituated gorilla families.

Pros:

Lower permit cost makes it more affordable for some.

The raw, unspoiled forest experience offers a true wilderness adventure.

Opportunities to combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest.

Cons:

The treks can be long, difficult, and often require significant endurance.

Accommodation options, while comfortable, are generally less luxurious than those found in Rwanda.

Rwanda: the elegant escape

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the crown jewel of the region when it comes to ease of access and luxury trekking experiences. With its dramatic volcanic backdrop, trekking here is less physically demanding, with trails that are often shorter and more manageable, particularly for those seeking a more relaxed pace. Rwanda’s high-end lodges, like Bisate Lodge and Singita Kwitonda Lodge, offer unparalleled luxury, with stunning views and world-class service.

Pros:

Shorter, easier treks, ideal for those who want to enjoy the experience without strenuous hiking.

Luxury lodges with superior comfort and attention to detail.

Proximity to Kigali International Airport, making access much quicker (just a two-hour drive).

Cons:

Higher permit costs, making it a pricier option.

Fewer habituated gorilla families compared to Uganda.

The add-ons: beyond the gorillas

While the gorillas are undoubtedly the highlight of any trip to Rwanda or Uganda, both countries offer incredible experiences beyond the trek. In Uganda, you can immerse your guests in classic savannah safaris at Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls, where they’ll encounter lions, elephants, and hippos. For cultural immersion, the Batwa Cultural Experience offers a unique opportunity to learn from the indigenous forest communities who have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries.

In Rwanda, there’s more to explore, including Akagera National Park, where your guests can enjoy a Big Five safari, or Nyungwe Forest, home to chimpanzees and the famous canopy walk. And no trip to Rwanda is complete without a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving and essential cultural experience that offers deep insight into the country’s history and resilience.

Conservation: trekking with purpose

One of the most powerful aspects of gorilla trekking is the tangible contribution to conservation efforts. Both Rwanda and Uganda have made incredible strides in protecting mountain gorillas. Permit fees are directly reinvested into anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration, and local community projects.

This sustainable model has allowed the global population of mountain gorillas to steadily increase, with numbers now surpassing 1,000 individuals. By trekking, your guests not only have the opportunity to witness these incredible animals up close but also to actively support the conservation that makes such encounters possible.

Whether your guests are drawn to the untamed wilderness of Uganda or the slightly more refined adventure of Rwanda, gorilla trekking offers a transformative experience. This journey is not just about seeing wildlife — it’s about immersing yourself in the heart of Africa’s rainforests and connecting with creatures that few have the privilege of encountering.

With Anderson & Harvey, your guests will be guided by experienced professionals who ensure the journey is seamless, safe, and deeply enriching. Let this experience change their lives and contribute to the continued survival of the mountain gorillas and the communities that protect them.

Incredible journeys await!

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:13:27 GMT

East Africa is packed with exciting safari destinations

An East African safari offers an exciting journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems on the continent. Covering Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, this vast region provides extraordinary opportunities to witness iconic wildlife, dramatic scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Each country presents its own unique experiences, ensuring that travellers encounter the full spectrum of Africa’s natural wonders. And Anderson & Harvey is ready to show you them all...

Kicking off in our "home country" of Tanzania, we love sharing the incredible wealth of natural wonders with your guests. Obviously, the Serengeti National Park is our flagship attraction. Synonymous with the Great Wildebeest Migration this vast, legendary savannah is home to enormous herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as Africa’s top predators, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards.

The park’s diversity extends beyond the migration, with the central Seronera Valley offering year-round sightings of big cats, while the remote northern region presents dramatic river crossings at the Mara River. In the south, the Ndutu plains host the calving season, when thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators and creating unforgettable wildlife spectacles.

Adjacent to the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking natural wonder and a haven for wildlife. This ancient volcanic caldera, with its lush grasslands and permanent water sources, supports an astonishing density of animals, including the rare black rhino. Game drives here reveal a microcosm of East Africa’s wildlife, with elephant herds roaming beneath acacia trees and large lion prides patrolling the crater floor.

To the south, Tarangire National Park offers a different kind of spectacle, particularly during the dry season when vast herds of elephants gather around the Tarangire River. The park’s iconic baobabs create a striking landscape, and its diverse habitats support a wealth of wildlife, including large lion prides, leopards, and an impressive array of bird species.

Nearby, Lake Manyara National Park is known for its tree-climbing lions, flamingo-filled shores, and lush groundwater forests that provide sanctuary for elephants, primates, and a vibrant bird population.

Tanzania’s southern circuit offers an entirely different safari experience. Ruaha National Park, with its rugged terrain and baobab-studded landscapes, is home to the largest lion population in East Africa. Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) provides a unique combination of land and water safaris, where travellers can cruise the Rufiji River, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along its banks. These lesser-visited parks offer an immersive and untamed wilderness experience, perfect for those seeking a more remote adventure.

In Kenya, the Masai Mara remains a must-visit destination, offering some of the highest densities of big cats in Africa. The open plains, rolling hills and acacia-dotted landscapes set the stage for exceptional game viewing, whether during the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration or the quieter months when the resident wildlife thrives.

Beyond the Mara, the Laikipia Plateau presents a contrasting landscape of rolling hills and rocky escarpments. This region is a stronghold for endangered species such as black rhinos and Grevy’s zebras and offers a variety of safari activities, including horseback and walking safaris.

One of Kenya’s conservation success stories, Lewa Conservancy, is a prime location for those seeking an exclusive safari experience. This private reserve is home to a thriving population of both black and white rhinos, alongside Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and cheetahs. With a strong emphasis on conservation and community engagement, Lewa offers outstanding wildlife encounters in a pristine and less crowded setting.

For those drawn to towering peaks and ancient landscapes, Amboseli National Park provides an iconic safari experience beneath the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, vast herds of elephants roam the dusty plains, their silhouettes framed against Africa’s highest mountain. Further afield, the arid landscapes of Samburu National Reserve reveal a unique array of wildlife adapted to the harsh environment, including the odd-looking gerenuk, the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and Beisa oryx.

Uganda is best known for its extraordinary primate experiences. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Tracking these majestic creatures through the dense jungle is an unforgettable experience, offering a rare opportunity to observe their complex social structures up close. In Kibale Forest, travellers can encounter habituated chimpanzees, whose playful interactions and high-energy movements make for an exhilarating trek.

Murchison Falls National Park combines classic big-game safari experiences with breathtaking scenery. The park is bisected by the Nile River, which cascades dramatically through a narrow gorge to form Murchison Falls. Boat safaris along the river reveal hippos, crocodiles, and elephant herds along the banks, while game drives across the savannah yield sightings of lions, giraffes, and buffalo.

Uganda is also a paradise for birding enthusiasts, boasting more than 1,000 recorded species, making it one of Africa’s top destinations for avian diversity. From the Albertine Rift endemics of Bwindi and Mgahinga to the vast wetlands of the Mabamba Swamp, the opportunities for birdwatching are unparalleled. One of the most sought-after sightings is the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork, which can be spotted in the swamps and along the shores of Lake Victoria. Other notable species include the African green broadbill, the Great Blue Turaco, and the colourful Ross’s turaco.

Rwanda, often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Hills", is an exceptional destination for those seeking both wildlife and culture. Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its mountain gorilla trekking, offering a chance to encounter these incredible primates in a mist-shrouded rainforest. Beyond gorilla encounters, Nyungwe Forest National Park provides superb chimpanzee trekking and the chance to walk along East Africa’s only canopy walkway, offering stunning views of the ancient rainforest.

Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, completes the country’s safari circuit. Once heavily poached, Akagera has undergone a remarkable transformation and now boasts thriving populations of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The park’s varied landscapes, from open plains to papyrus-lined lakes, provide excellent game-viewing opportunities, while boat safaris on Lake Ihema offer close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife, including the iconic African fish eagle and the elusive shoebill stork.

For those looking to combine safari with relaxation, the Indian Ocean coastline provides a perfect contrast to the inland wilderness. Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Swahili heritage make it an ideal post-safari retreat. Further south, the remote islands of Pemba and Mafia offer exceptional diving and marine experiences, including encounters with whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs.

When you work with Anderson & Harvey, you're guaranteed the very best of each of these incredible destinations, with our team of talented travel designers creating bespoke, customised itineraries that take in as much, or as little as you need, ensuring your guests have exceptional safari experiences at every stage of their journey. Talk to us today to find out more.

Get the best out of the migration with A&H

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:09:37 GMT

Top tips on the best places to witness this cyclical spectacle

The Great Wildebeest Migration remains one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, a perpetual cycle of movement across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, spanning two countries and dictated by seasonal rainfall and the endless search for fresh grazing. However, experiencing it without the crowds requires careful planning. By choosing remote lodges, prioritising private conservancies, and opting for exclusive guided experiences, your guests can witness this epic journey in its purest form. Let's find out more...

Each year, over 1,5-million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, traverse vast distances between Tanzania and Kenya, crossing crocodile-infested rivers and navigating predator-laden landscapes. While the migration attracts thousands of visitors annually, those in the know can experience this natural wonder without the usual crush of crowds, provided they plan strategically. Which is where Anderson & Harvey steps in!

Experiencing the migration in its full splendour requires understanding the best locations to witness its different phases. In Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, the vast southern plains offer some of the most immersive experiences. Here, from December to March, the herds spread across the open grasslands, providing unparalleled photographic opportunities against sweeping landscapes.

Unlike the more confined settings of river crossings, the sheer scale of the herds in the southern Serengeti is breathtaking. This period also marks the calving season, when nearly half a million wildebeest give birth in a synchronised event that draws an abundance of predators.

The Ndutu region is a prime location to witness this stage, offering some of the best access to newborn calves taking their first steps while lion prides, cheetahs, and hyenas lie in wait. Luxury camps in the area allow guests to wake up to the sight of thousands of wildebeest just outside their tents. These camps often employ highly skilled guides who track the migration's movements daily, ensuring optimal wildlife encounters.

As the herds begin their gradual push northward, the central Serengeti emerges as a prime location for witnessing predator-prey interactions. With its mix of open plains, rocky kopjes, and woodlands, this region provides the perfect hunting ground for the Serengeti’s formidable lion prides.

The Seronera Valley, a well-known wildlife hotspot, is one of the few places where visitors can reliably see big cats alongside vast herds of wildebeest. While this area is popular, choosing a lodge with private concessions or guided off-road experiences can significantly enhance the experience by avoiding the busiest tourist zones.

Further west, the Grumeti Reserve offers a more exclusive take on the migration. Unlike the central Serengeti, where visitor numbers can be high, the private nature of the Grumeti concessions means only a limited number of guests have access. This results in uncrowded game drives and more intimate wildlife experiences. The Grumeti River, a major obstacle for the migrating herds, provides dramatic yet relatively undiscovered river crossings. Unlike the chaotic scenes of the Mara River, these crossings tend to be quieter, making them ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a more serene spectacle.

By mid-year, as the herds continue their journey north, the northern Serengeti offers what many consider to be the pinnacle of the migration experience. The landscapes here are more rugged, with rolling hills and acacia-dotted savannahs setting the stage for some of the most intense wildlife action.

The Mara River crossings in this region are nothing short of legendary, and while they attract large crowds, choosing an exclusive mobile camp near Kogatende or Lamai can ensure a front-row seat without excessive vehicle congestion. These camps shift locations in real-time, following the herds closely to guarantee the best viewing opportunities.

For those determined to witness the migration in Kenya, the Masai Mara presents an equally spectacular setting. However, avoiding the crowds is key. The main reserve, while famous for its density of wildlife, can become saturated with safari vehicles, particularly during peak migration season.

A better alternative is to stay in one of the private conservancies bordering the Mara, such as Mara North, Olare Motorogi, or Naboisho. These conservancies offer exclusive game drives, night safaris, and walking expeditions, all while providing access to the migration without the intense competition for sightings. The conservancies also have strict vehicle limits at sightings, ensuring that every moment with the migration feels intimate and unspoiled.

By the time the herds begin their return journey south, a different kind of magic unfolds. The migration’s retreat through the Serengeti is often overlooked, yet it presents unique opportunities for those seeking solitude. The vast expanses of the northern and central Serengeti see a temporary lull in visitors, allowing for serene game drives with unparalleled wildlife encounters.

This is also the time when large male lions, often seen trailing the exhausted herds, provide extraordinary hunting displays. Booking a stay at a lodge positioned along the migration's return route, such as those in the western Serengeti or the private Mwiba Wildlife Reserve, ensures an exclusive experience far from the crowds.

For those seeking a more immersive approach, hot-air balloon safaris over the Serengeti provide a breathtaking aerial perspective of the migration, revealing the sheer scale of the herds as they stretch to the horizon.

Talk to us about getting the best migration experiences for your guests and let us work our migration magic for you, using our extensive understanding of the dynamics of the migration to select the best camps and lodges in the best destinations to suit your needs.

The perfect way to end a safari!

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 08:29:02 GMT

Spend a few days in breathtaking Zanzibar

After the thrill of a northern circuit safari in Tanzania, it's great to spend a few days in an entirely different environment - on a sun-kissed soft, white sand beach with palm trees swaying gently overhead and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean beckoning just footsteps away... This is Zanzibar, and it's the perfect complement to a traditional wildlife safari, offering the chance to relax, reflect, and immerse yourself in a world of cultural richness and natural beauty...

This enchanting archipelago off East Africa’s coast combines pristine beaches, fascinating history, and diverse activities. Indeed, Zanzibar’s story is as captivating as its landscapes. For centuries, it was at the heart of Indian Ocean trade routes, linking Africa, Arabia, India, and beyond.

This melting pot of cultures has left an indelible mark on the islands, most notably in Stone Town, the historic centre of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering through Stone Town’s narrow, maze-like streets feels like stepping into another era. Its architecture is a reflection of its multicultural past, with intricately carved wooden doors from Oman, coral stone buildings with lattice balconies, and Indian-inspired courtyards.

Every corner has a story to tell, from the faded grandeur of its old mansions to the bustling Forodhani Gardens night market, where the aroma of spiced kebabs and freshly grilled seafood fills the air.

Historic sites

Once a key trading hub for ivory, spices, and enslaved people, the islands played a central role in shaping the Swahili Coast’s history. Today, visitors can delve into this past at sites like the Old Fort, the House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib), and the Anglican Cathedral, which stands on the site of a former slave market. These landmarks not only offer a glimpse into Zanzibar’s history but also provide a deeper understanding of its cultural identity and resilience.

For those with an interest in shopping and local craftsmanship, Stone Town offers an array of options. Its bustling bazaars are filled with handwoven textiles, locally made jewellery, and beautifully crafted wooden carvings. Spice tours provide an opportunity to learn about the cultivation of cloves, vanilla, and cardamom—crops that earned Zanzibar its nickname, the Spice Islands. These tours are both educational and sensory, offering a hands-on experience of the island’s agricultural heritage.

Sun, sea and sand...

Beyond Stone Town, Zanzibar’s coastlines offer a very different kind of charm. The island’s beaches are world-renowned, each with its own character and appeal. On the eastern coast, tranquil stretches of white sand are lapped by crystal-clear waters, while offshore coral reefs teem with marine life. Nungwi and Kendwa, in the north, are known for their lively atmosphere and spectacular sunsets, while quieter spots like Pongwe and Matemwe cater to those seeking seclusion. Accommodation options range from boutique beachside lodges to luxurious private villas, all offering warm hospitality and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

For travellers craving exclusivity, the smaller islands surrounding Zanzibar are hard to beat. Mnemba Island, a private paradise just off the northeastern coast, epitomises barefoot luxury. With only a handful of bandas scattered along its pristine shoreline, guests can enjoy unparalleled privacy and personalised service. Mnemba is also a haven for marine conservation, where efforts to protect coral reefs and endangered species like green turtles are seamlessly integrated into the guest experience. Days here are spent snorkelling, diving, or simply soaking up the serenity of the island—a world apart from the hustle of modern life.

Adventure on tap

Zanzibar also caters to those with a love of adventure. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are a diver’s dream, with sites like Leven Bank offering the chance to encounter reef sharks, rays, and vibrant schools of fish. Snorkelling, kayaking, and windsurfing are popular options for those keen to explore the coastline, while dhow cruises at sunset provide a more relaxed way to experience the ocean.

Inland, the Jozani Forest offers a different kind of adventure. Home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey, this lush forest is a reminder of the island’s ecological diversity. Guided walks reveal the intricate interplay between mangroves, tidal ecosystems, and the creatures that inhabit them.

Bursting with flavour

Zanzibar’s food scene is another highlight, with its cuisine reflecting the island’s multicultural heritage. A meal here is a journey in itself, with influences from India, the Middle East, and Africa creating a vibrant mix of flavours. From aromatic Swahili curries to fresh seafood grilled to perfection, every dish tells a story. Visitors can enjoy fine dining at luxury resorts or sample local specialities at beachside shacks and bustling markets.

What makes Zanzibar the perfect post-safari destination is the way it complements the Tanzanian mainland. After the wide-open plains of the Serengeti, the dramatic vistas of Ngorongoro Crater, and the teeming wildlife of Tarangire, Zanzibar offers a change of pace. Here, time slows, the landscapes soften, and the focus shifts from the thrill of adventure to the art of relaxation.

At Anderson & Harvey, we curate Zanzibar experiences that are as unique as the travellers who visit. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural richness of Stone Town, the tranquillity of its beaches, or the exclusivity of a private island retreat, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. It’s not just a place to end your journey - it’s the perfect way to complete it.

Marvellous, magical Masai Mara!

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 08:13:20 GMT

Discover one of East Africa's most iconic destinations

Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve is a global icon for the notion of an untamed wilderness, renowned for its raw beauty, exceptional wildlife, and a legacy of conservation that reaches beyond its borders. It's a place where biodiversity flourishes, where conservation efforts have redefined the relationship between communities and wildlife, and where luxury safaris provide an exceptional connection to the wild. At Anderson & Harvey, we are privileged to showcase the Masai Mara in its entirety - its history, its purpose, and its enduring allure...

While many immediately picture the spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration, the Mara’s significance runs much deeper. What is today known as the Mara Triangle - a 1,350 square kilometre swathe of savannah grassland - was established in 1948 when Kenya was still governed by Britain. And here's a curious fact - while it's named for the Maasai people, the Brits spelled the name with only one "a" - something that has not been rectified on government records - so it's Masai Mara National Reserve but the Maasai people!

In 1961 the Masai Mara came under the control of Narok County Council and since then it grown into the legend it is today, surrounded now by private conservancies owned by the local Maasai that are contributing to Kenya's conservation efforts while at the same time cementing community beneficiation through tourism.

A vast Eden...

Spanning more than 1,500 square kilometres, the Mara is part of the greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, a contiguous wilderness stretching across the Kenya-Tanzania border. This vast, interconnected system is not just home to iconic species like lion, cheetah and elephant, but serves as a critical refuge for countless other wildlife from plains game to birds and reptiles, as well as migratory species that depend on these landscapes for survival.

The Mara's rolling plains are dotted with acacia trees, rocky outcrops, seasonal and perennial rivers and support an intricate web of life. Carnivors thrive in staggering numbers, earning the Mara its reputation as one of Africa’s predator capitals. A plethora of herbivores ensure the savannah remains alive with movement and wetlands provide vital water sources, while diverse flora supports a thriving pollinator population.

The Masai Mara is equally remarkable for its avian diversity. More than 470 bird species have been recorded here, including both resident and migratory species. It's a paradise for birders, with everything from raptors like martial eagles and bateleurs to smaller treasures like bee-eaters and turacos.

Communities & conservation

For those who venture beyond the national reserve into the Masai Mara’s private conservancies, the experience becomes even more profound. These conservancies, including Mara North, Olare Motorogi, and Naboisho, are pioneering models of community-driven conservation. By leasing land from Maasai communities, these areas simultaneously provide secure habitats for wildlife and sustainable income for local landowners. This symbiotic relationship has transformed the landscape, ensuring that areas once dominated by overgrazing are now flourishing wildernesses teeming with game.

Mara North is a prime example of how community collaboration yields tangible conservation success. Stretching across 300 square kilometres, it supports an extraordinary array of wildlife, from elephant and buffalo to elusive predators like leopard and painted wolves (African wild dogs). Similarly, Olare Motorogi Conservancy has become a sanctuary for some of the highest densities of lion found anywhere in Africa, alongside other key species like cheetah and zebra.

The low-impact tourism policies within these conservancies ensure that visitor numbers are limited, guaranteeing a more exclusive safari experience. Guests often find themselves enjoying sightings without another vehicle in sight - an increasingly rare privilege in Africa’s top wildlife destinations.

Beyond the thrilling game drives, the conservancies also offer a richer, more intimate connection to the environment. Guided walking safaris reveal the intricate details of the bush and night drives offer a window into the Mara’s nocturnal world. These experiences, inaccessible in the main reserve, make the conservancies a compelling choice for those seeking deeper immersion.

Sustainable tourism in action

Culturally, the Masai Mara is inseparable from the heritage of the Maasai people. For centuries, the Maasai have lived alongside wildlife, their semi-nomadic way of life shaped by the rhythms of the land. The private conservancies provide guests with the opportunity to engage meaningfully with Maasai communities. From witnessing traditional dances to learning about their livestock management practices, these encounters offer an authentic glimpse into how conservation and culture intertwine.

For those seeking the pinnacle of safari luxury, the Mara’s private conservancies deliver experiences that redefine indulgence. Boutique camps and lodges blend seamlessly into the landscape, offering unparalleled comfort alongside sustainability. Guests can expect touches of refinement, from private plunge pools overlooking watering holes to gourmet meals served under a canopy of stars.

The exclusivity of the conservancies means that every aspect of your stay is tailored to your desires, whether that’s a sunrise balloon safari over the plains or a helicopter excursion to the remote escarpments bordering the reserve.

Yet luxury in the Masai Mara goes hand in hand with purpose. A significant portion of conservancy fees directly supports anti-poaching units, community education programmes and habitat restoration projects. By staying in the private conservancies, guests actively contribute to safeguarding this fragile ecosystem for generations to come.

At Anderson & Harvey, we believe the Masai Mara is not merely a destination but a revelation. Its rolling landscapes, unparalleled wildlife, and commitment to conservation make it a place that inspires awe and respect in equal measure. Get in touch to find out more.

Discover secret Tanzania

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 08:08:51 GMT

Head south for a remote safari circuit with a difference

For travellers seeking a Tanzanian safari, the northern circuit — with its iconic Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park — often dominates itineraries. Yet, hidden in the south and west lies a collection of lesser-visited parks offering equally thrilling and arguably more exclusive adventures. Mahale Mountains National Park, Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), and Ruaha National Park form the backbone of Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, a region rich in biodiversity and raw wilderness. Together, these parks provide an alternative to the bustling north, offering intimate wildlife encounters, diverse landscapes, and an unfiltered connection to nature.

The allure of Mahale Mountains National Park

Tucked away on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, Mahale Mountains National Park is a paradise of pristine wilderness. Accessible only by boat or small plane, Mahale feels like a world apart, where lush forests cascade down steep mountains to meet the crystal-clear waters of the world’s second-deepest lake.

While the park teems with biodiversity, Mahale’s crown jewels are its chimpanzees. Home to one of the largest remaining populations of wild chimps in Africa, the park offers visitors the rare chance to track and observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Trekking through the dense forest to find them is an experience like no other. You’ll hear their calls long before you see them, and when you finally come face to face with a troop, the sense of connection is profound.

Mahale’s remoteness ensures an exclusivity rarely found in the Serengeti. Visitors share the park with only a handful of others, making every moment feel personal and extraordinary. Beyond the chimps, Lake Tanganyika itself is a treasure, perfect for kayaking, fishing, or simply unwinding after a trek.

Nyerere National Park: Africa’s untamed giant

At a staggering 30,000 square kilometres — making it one of the largest protected areas in Africa— Nyerere National Park is an immense, untamed wilderness. Formerly part of the famed Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere is a haven for wildlife, with its heart centred around the lifegiving Rufiji River.

Unlike the northern parks, where wildlife congregates in predictable patterns, Nyerere’s vastness allows animals to roam freely and undisturbed. It’s a paradise for elephant herds, elusive leopards, and one of the continent’s largest populations of African wild dogs. Boasting an impressive array of safari activities, from boat safaris to walking safaris, it offers a uniquely varied experience that goes far beyond game drives.

The boat safaris, in particular, are a highlight. Cruising along the Rufiji River, you’ll drift past hippos wallowing in pods, crocodiles basking on sandbanks, and birdlife so abundant it feels like an ornithologist’s dream. By comparison, the Serengeti’s river systems are smaller, their wildlife interactions more predictable.

Nyerere’s charm lies in its sense of discovery. The park’s southern location means fewer crowds and an untouched feel that’s becoming increasingly rare in African safaris.

Ruaha National Park: baobabs and big cats

If Nyerere represents uncharted wilderness, Ruaha National Park delivers rugged charm and some of Tanzania’s best predator sightings. Located in central Tanzania, Ruaha is defined by its sprawling savannahs, meandering rivers, and iconic baobab trees. It’s a quintessential African landscape, yet one that remains refreshingly under-visited.

Ruaha is especially famous for its lions. The park is home to one of the largest lion populations in East Africa, making predator-prey dynamics a central theme of any visit. Cheetahs and leopards are also frequently spotted, while wild dogs add to the park’s predator density.

While the Serengeti’s plains offer a dramatic stage for the Great Migration, Ruaha’s quieter atmosphere allows for more intimate wildlife encounters. Imagine watching a pride of lions on the hunt with no other vehicles in sight or sitting under the shade of a baobab tree as elephants graze nearby.

The park’s semi-arid climate creates seasonal variations that shape the safari experience. During the dry season, wildlife congregates around the Great Ruaha River, creating excellent game-viewing opportunities. In the green season, the park’s lush scenery and birdlife come to the fore, making it a photographer’s paradise.

North vs South

Tanzania’s Northern Circuit is undeniably iconic. The Serengeti’s Great Migration is one of the most famous wildlife spectacles on Earth, while the Ngorongoro Crater boasts a density of animals rarely seen elsewhere. But with these accolades come crowds, particularly in peak seasons.

By contrast, the Southern Circuit — comprising Nyerere, Ruaha, and Mahale — offers solitude and exclusivity. You won’t find the same density of tourists here, and the diversity of activities provides a fresh perspective on safari. Where the north is about spectacle, the south is about immersion.

The landscapes also differ significantly. The Serengeti’s endless plains are dramatic and iconic, but the southern parks’ varied terrains — from Nyerere’s riverine woodlands to Ruaha’s baobab-studded savannahs — offer more diversity in scenery. Similarly, while the northern parks excel in classic game drives, the south’s walking safaris, boating adventures, and primate tracking make for a more well-rounded experience.

The southern circuit is also a natural choice for seasoned safari-goers looking for something different. It complements the north beautifully, offering deeper exploration of Tanzania’s vast and varied wilderness. Combining both regions in one trip provides a truly comprehensive Tanzanian adventure.

Why visit secret Tanzania?

For those willing to step off the beaten path, Tanzania’s southern and western parks are an unparalleled safari destination. Mahale Mountains National Park offers intimate encounters with chimpanzees, Nyerere National Park delivers a sense of wilderness rarely found in modern safaris, and Ruaha National Park provides some of the best predator sightings on the continent. Together, they showcase Tanzania’s rich natural heritage, offering a safari experience that is as diverse as it is rewarding.

While the northern circuit will always be a cornerstone of Tanzanian tourism, the south holds its own secrets — quiet, wild, and waiting to be discovered. For those in search of untamed beauty, secret Tanzania might just be the ultimate safari destination.

Walk on the wild side

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:29:20 GMT

Discover the Tanzanian wilderness on foot

Walking safaris are a dream for seasoned safari enthusiasts seeking a closer connection to the East African wilderness. Tanzania quietly stands out with some exceptional options for keen walkers, whether as a complement to the traditional safari activity offering or as a dedicated, multi-day safari. Indeed, being on foot in wild Africa is one of the best, most immersive safari experiences you can have, so let's find out more about walking on the wild side...

A walking safari is essentially a guided trek through the bush, offering a more intimate connection to nature. Led by a skilled guide, often accompanied by a tracker and sometimes a local Maasai expert, these treks take you where safari vehicles do not. Whether it's a casual bush walk close to your camp or lodge, a full day or overnight fly camping trek or a fully fledged multi-day expedition, walking safaris are transformative journeys that allow you to view Africa in a whole new light.

What makes a walking safari special?

There’s something profoundly life-changing about being on foot in the wilderness. Your senses come alive, attuning to the sounds, scents, and subtleties of the bush. The slow pace reveals hidden treasures: industrious insects, vivid flowers, small life in abundance and even the gentle whispering of the wind, all of which are easily overlooked on a game drive.

Being on foot allows you to experience the bush in its purest form, connecting with the land in a way no vehicle-based safari can replicate. Whether you’re threading through the vast plains of Nyerere National Park, marvelling at the baobabs of Ruaha, or venturing into the untamed wilds of Katavi, walking safaris promise unforgettable encounters and moments of awe.

Who would enjoy a walking safari?

Walking safaris appeal to both first-timers and safari veterans. They offer a refreshing break from vehicle-based game drives, allowing you to stretch your legs and dive deeper into the landscape. Guides enrich the experience by sharing insights about animal tracks, plant life, and the nuances of wildlife behaviour. For the truly adventurous, multi-day walking safaris offer the thrill of navigating diverse terrains before unwinding at a fly camp with a bucket shower and warm meal.

Walking safaris are more accessible than you might think. You’ll only carry a daypack with essentials like water, and while the terrain can be uneven, guides adapt the pace to suit the group’s needs. Excuses to stop — whether for wildlife sightings or just curiosity — are always welcomed. Most walks start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, with routes planned to finish at camp by noon.

Walking in Tanzania

Tanzania offers a variety of walking safari experiences, thanks to its diverse protected areas, each governed by different rules. Fly-camping trips, in particular, shine as highlights of Tanzania’s walking safari offerings.

In national parks, safaris follow the stringent regulations of the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA). Walks are limited to six guests, accompanied by an armed ranger, and must stick to designated trails. While relatively new, walking safaris in these parks are a wonderful complement to your Tanzanian safari.

In game reserves and private concessions, the rules are more relaxed, and camps and lodges are able to set their own protocols, so we choose those with highly qualified walking specialist guides who ensure a consistently excellent experience.

Where to walk

Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve): A haven for walking safaris, offering diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, Neyere National Park covers an area roughly 2.5 times the size of Wales and it’s one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. The park centres around the Rufiji River, a lifeline for wildlife during the dry season. Walking safaris here reveal an ever-changing panorama of riverine forests, open plains, and meandering waterways. With a mix of big game like elephants, wild dogs, and leopards, as well as birdlife year-round, Nyerere offers a walking safari experience that’s hard to match.

Ruaha National Park: To the west of Nyerere lies Ruaha National Park, known for its rugged beauty and open grasslands dotted with ancient baobabs. While its habitats are less varied than Nyerere’s, Ruaha’s walking safaris deliver on excitement and exceptional guiding. Camps here excel at creating unforgettable experiences, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure on foot.

Northern circuit: Walking safaris have recently been introduced to the northern parks, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the fringes of the Serengeti. These areas, while not designed for multi-day treks, offer fantastic opportunities to add walking elements to your safari. With high-quality guiding and excellent wildlife sightings, they make a great complement to traditional game drives.

Katavi National Park: For the truly adventurous, Katavi is an unrivalled gem. Remote and raw, this park boasts staggering wildlife spectacles, from enormous buffalo herds to hippos gathering in super-pods of thousands during the dry season. With just three seasonal camps and minimal crowds, Katavi’s walking safaris offer a rare glimpse into one of Africa’s best-kept secrets.

Manyara - a northern circuit paradise

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:48:08 GMT

Discover the magic of a Lake Manyara safari with A&H

Lake Manyara plays a pivotal role in Tanzania's Greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area. With its unique ecosystem and strategic location, this striking soda lake draws attention from conservationists, biologists, and travellers alike, with its lush landscapes offering refuge to a diverse array of species. Part of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara’s alkaline waters and surrounding habitats support a rich diversity of wildlife, making it a sought-after tourism destination. Let's find out more...

Stretching roughly 230 square kilometres and surrounded by the Lake Manyara National Park, the lake itself fluctuates in size with the seasons. During the dry season, its surface area shrinks, exposing wide mudflats, while the wet season sees it swell with rainfall and runoff from the surrounding escarpments. These fluctuations contribute to a rich mosaic of habitats, including groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and open grasslands, each supporting distinct species and contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area.

The lake’s alkaline nature, common among East African soda lakes, results from high evaporation rates that leave behind concentrated mineral deposits, particularly sodium carbonate. This gives the water its distinctive, slightly caustic quality. However, the lake's brackish water doesn’t deter wildlife; in fact, it acts as a natural draw for certain species, creating a magnet for wildlife.

A haven for wildlife

The lake is renowned for its lesser flamingos. Its alkalinity encourages the growth of spirulina algae, the primary food source for the large flocks of these impressive birds that paint the waterline pink during the migration season. This phenomenon makes it an essential feeding ground in the East African flamingo circuit. Besides flamingos, Lake Manyara attracts a multitude of other bird species — more than 400 have been documented earning it a reputation as a birding paradise.

Lake Manyara National Park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions that spend hours lounging in the branches of acacia trees, escaping the heat of the day and annoyance of biting insects that inhabit the grasslands below. Other prominent residents include elephant, which often gather near the lake's shoreline to drink and bathe, alongside giraffe, buffalo, and troops of baboons which are some of the largest in Africa.

An important role

Lake Manyara serves as a vital link within the Greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti plains, and Olduvai Gorge.

The Greater Ngorongoro region is known for its rich archaeological significance, and Lake Manyara plays a role here as well. Fossils and artefacts found near the lake contribute to understanding human evolution in the East African Rift Valley, offering insights into early hominid habitation and migration. Many scientists argue that the landscape surrounding Lake Manyara likely provided resources for early human populations, adding an anthropological layer to its significance.

The lake and its adjacent habitats form part of a corridor that enables wildlife movement across the northern Tanzanian landscape, a crucial factor for species survival as it helps prevent genetic isolation. Moreover, Lake Manyara’s wetlands act as a buffer, absorbing seasonal floods and regulating the water supply across the area, particularly to the Ngorongoro Highlands. This helps to sustain the broader ecosystem and maintain the groundwater levels that support vegetation and wildlife.

Safari experiences

Beyond its ecological importance, Lake Manyara captivates visitors with its striking scenery. From the dense, mist-covered groundwater forests near the park entrance to the expansive views of the lake against the towering Rift Valley escarpment, the landscape showcases East Africa’s dramatic natural beauty.

Guests can take part in a range of attractions and activities that showcase the area’s rich biodiversity and remarkable scenery from game drives through Lake Manyara National Park to birding and guided canoe safaris when water levels permit. These canoe excursions offer a unique perspective, gliding along the water’s surface to observe wildlife from a close yet safe distance. Canoe safaris provide an intimate experience with the natural surroundings, allowing a close view of aquatic birds, hippos, and even elephants gathering by the shore.

Additionally, walking safaris are available, allowing guests to explore the park’s lush terrain on foot, discovering interesting plants, animal tracks, and smaller wildlife that might go unnoticed during a drive. These walks create a deeper connection to the landscape and encourage an appreciation of the area’s plant life and smaller creatures, including insects and reptiles.

Absolute musts...

For travellers interested in the park’s dramatic landscapes, the Maji Moto Hot Springs are a must-see feature. This geothermal spring, whose name translates to "hot water" in Swahili, lies near the edge of the park and offers visitors a chance to soak in naturally warm, mineral-rich waters. Surrounded by scenic vegetation and views of the Rift Valley escarpment, it provides a relaxing break from safari activities.

Cultural tours to nearby Maasai villages offer an opportunity to learn more about the traditional lifestyles of one of East Africa's best-known ethnic groups. Visitors can engage with Maasai artisans, witness traditional dances, and gain insights into the Maasai’s knowledge of the local landscape, including their sustainable pastoral practices and their connection to the land.

For a unique vantage point, Lake Manyara also features the Manyara Treetop Walkway in the lush forests on the lake's edge. Stretching for around 370 metres at an elevation of up to 18m, this canopy walk consists of a series of suspended bridges that wind through the treetops, offering panoramic views over the forest and an unusual perspective on the surrounding landscapes. This activity not only provides a unique experience but also allows visitors to spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies that inhabit the canopy.

A photographic paradise

Photographers find Lake Manyara especially rewarding, as the landscape's contrasts create ideal lighting conditions for wildlife and landscape photography. From sunrise over the lake to the Rift Valley's towering cliffs bathed in evening light, the scenery is particularly dramatic, providing exceptional backdrops for capturing Tanzania’s natural beauty.

Of course, thanks to its location, it's easy to include Lake Manyara in northern circuit safari that includes the nearby Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. The park's relatively compact size means it can be explored in a single day, making it an accessible choice for travellers on a shorter schedule or those starting or ending a longer safari in the region.

Talk to us about including Lake Manyara in your next Tanzania itinerary.

Discover the magic of calving season

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:43:12 GMT

The southern Serengeti is home to this natural spectacle extraordinaire

When the drama of the river crossings in the north of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara National Reserve in neighbouring Kenya has subsided and the Great Wildebeest Migration heads south, a different facet of this circular spectacle unfolds in the wide grasslands of the southern Serengeti... It's here that the wildebeest stop to feast on fresh grass and give birth in their hundreds of thousands, filling the plains with an abundance of new life. This is calving season - and here's why it should be on your safari itinerary...

Each year, the Great Wildebeest Migration takes its journey south, timed perfectly with the arrival of the rainy season on the southern Serengeti plains. When the rains arrive, what was once a dry, harsh landscape comes to life, bursting into endless stretches of green. It’s a powerful trigger for the wildebeest, who gather in huge numbers to give birth on these lush plains. The Ndutu region, in particular, becomes the heart of this incredible event. This area’s volcanic past has left the soil rich with minerals, helping nutrient-dense grasses to flourish—grasses that provide essential sustenance for wildebeest mothers and their calves alike.

Calving season typically peaks in January and February and is an intense period. Over just a few weeks, nearly half a million calves are born, sometimes as many as 9,000 in a single day. This timing isn’t just a coincidence; it’s a survival tactic perfected over millennia. By having such a large number of calves arrive within a short time, the wildebeest overwhelm the Serengeti’s predators, who simply can’t keep up. Even with many calves falling prey, this mass birthing ensures enough young survive to replenish the herd each year.

Incredible experiences

The sight of a newborn wildebeest taking its first wobbly steps is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Wildebeest mothers give birth standing up, and within minutes, each calf is struggling to its feet, learning to balance on unsteady legs. Speed is essential, as these calves need to be mobile almost immediately, able to follow their mothers and keep pace with the herd to avoid predators.

Once a calf is born, it forms a quick bond with its mother, recognising her by scent and appearance in the crowd of moving wildebeest. This bond is critical; the calves face a world filled with threats almost immediately, and they need to stay close to their mothers to increase their chances of survival.

The southern plains during calving season are a prime hunting ground for predators who follow the herds, looking to take advantage of this seasonal bounty of vulnerable calves. Despite the synchronised birth strategy, around 30–40% of calves won’t survive their first year, falling to predators, disease, or the hardships of migration.

Predators aplenty

This surge in life also sustains the Serengeti’s complex ecosystem. The southern plains, rich in grasses, attract more than just wildebeest — other herbivores, including zebras and gazelles, join the migration here, arriving in synchrony with the rains. Their presence, in turn, attracts a variety of predators, resulting in a dense congregation of wildlife in one region. The interconnected feeding and breeding behaviours of these animals create a web of life that contributes to the Serengeti’s rich biodiversity.

With their hunting instincts primed, predators around the southern Serengeti have evolved to use the abundance of prey to their advantage. Lions often position themselves near waterholes and key routes, ambushing young calves. Hyenas, which hunt in groups, team up to separate calves from the herd.

Meanwhile, cheetahs, known for their speed, target these young wildebeest who aren’t yet as agile as their adult counterparts. Each predator uses a different approach, but with thousands of calves in the area, they can all find plenty of opportunities without having a severe impact on the overall wildebeest population.

A tourism drawcard

The calving spectacle has become a major tourism drawcard for the southern reaches of the Serengeti. Watching a wildebeest calf struggle to its feet, take its first tentative steps, and bond with its mother has become a bucket-list wildlife experience and it's easy to see why. It's an exciting time offering a safari experience that’s quite different from the more commonly known river crossings of the north and the Masai Mara in neighbouring Kenya. The period from January to March each year draws visitors who want a closer, more intimate view of the lifecycle of one of Africa’s most iconic species.

Guests choosing a calving season safari get the chance to witness the quieter, yet more dramatic side of the migration — the birth of thousands of calves, the bonding of wildebeest families, and the complex predator-prey dynamics that follow.

One of the unique aspects of calving season tourism is the opportunity to see wildlife in a relatively concentrated area. Unlike the river crossings, where the herds are constantly on the move, calving season in the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu Plains is more stationary. Guests often stay in one region and observe as the herds gather on the green plains.

A rollercoaster of emotions

One of the main draws of calving season tourism is the chance to see nature’s resilience and the beauty of new beginnings. The season is often described as an event full of contrasts, where joy and survival struggles coexist. Guests can expect a rollercoaster of emotions — one moment marvelling at a calf’s first steps, and the next witnessing the high-stakes drama of a predator encounter.

While the sight of a newborn calf is heartwarming, it’s also sobering to see the natural threats these young wildebeest face from the moment they are born. Lions, hyenas, and cheetahs often prowl nearby, drawn by the abundance of vulnerable young.

For wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, this season offers close-up opportunities to capture predators as they stalk and hunt among the herds, using various techniques and adaptations to hunt in the crowded environment. It provides a rollercoaster of emotions for those who witness the cycle of life, and death, in such close proximity.

Immersive safari experiences

Calving season safaris are usually based in mobile or semi-permanent camps located close to the herds, providing a front-row seat to the action. The experience can be wonderfully immersive — waking up to the sounds of wildebeest grunting and seeing large herds grazing right outside the camp creates a feeling of being deeply connected to the landscape and its wildlife. These camps are often smaller and offer a more intimate safari experience, with fewer tourists compared to peak migration season, making for a quieter, less crowded environment to enjoy wildlife sightings.

Talk to us about arranging a calving season safari for your clients that allows them to witness this incredible spectacle.

The ultimate safari packing guide

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:40:27 GMT

What your guests need to bring and what they should leave behind

An East African safari is an adventure like no other, and being well-prepared can make all the difference to your guests. From the thrill of spotting big game to the serenity of a stunning sunset, a safari in East Africa can be a life-changing experience. However, packing for a safari can be challenging, especially if your guests have not been to Africa before. Here's an in-depth guide to ensure they're ready for every moment without overpacking!

CLOTHES

Clothing Essentials

On safari, comfort, practicality, and the right colours are key. The climate can vary greatly from chilly mornings to sweltering afternoons, so it's important to pack layers. Of course, climate depends on the time of year your guests are travelling, and also the altitude of the destinations they will be visiting - generally speaking, higher altitudes lead to cooler temperatures, so check with us for clarification and more in-depth information!

Neutral-coloured clothing

Your guests should stick to muted tones like khaki, olive, beige, brown and light greys. Bright colours can attract insects and stand out to wildlife. Camo print is an absolute no-no as it can be associated with the military. Black and dark blue can also be an issue as they attract tsetse flies - large, biting flies that deliver a very itchy bite! So, blending in with the Earth tones of Africa is highly recommended!

Lightweight, loose, breathable fabrics

Opting for moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabrics is a must for your guests. Safari days are long, and they'll be exposed to a lot of sun. Lightweight cotton or performance blends will help keep them cool. They should steer clear of tight-fitting clothing unless there is an element of stretch involved, as they will be sitting a lot - either in our fleet of luxury safari vehicles or on open safari vehicles at the camps and lodges they stay in. So, ease of movement and comfort is paramount.

Long vs short

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers do offer protection against the sun, some biting insects and thorny bushes. We do recommend styles with roll-up sleeves and zip-off legs for versatility. But... Going long can be on the warm side, so there's nothing wrong with a selection of short-sleeved tees, shorts and cargo pants. A combination of both is best.

Warm layers for early mornings and evenings

Temperatures can drop dramatically at dawn and dusk, and the wind chill on an open safari vehicle can be quite drastic, so your guests need to be prepared. A fleece or lightweight jacket is essential, and a scarf or buff can provide extra warmth. The key to staying at the ideal temperature is layers - adding and subtracting them as required.

Waterproof jacket

If your guests are travelling during the rainy season or to destinations with unpredictable weather, a lightweight, packable waterproof jacket is a must. Most safari lodges and camps provide waterproof ponchos on open safari vehicles, but it's always best to have your own wet wear on hand, as well as covers for camera bags and day packs.

A good sun hat

To protect your guests' face and neck from the harsh sun they will need a hat with a decent brim all the way around. While baseball caps offer a good shield for the face, they do not provide cover for the back of the neck. So, if a baseball cap is preferred, it should be paired with a lightweight scarf to protect exposed skin. A chin strap can be useful when you're on open vehicles where wind can be an issue.

Scarf or buff

These are not only useful for warmth on chilly mornings, but also to protect against dust and sun on game drives.

Sturdy walking shoes or boots

If your guests are doing walking safaris or bush walks, a good pair of broken-in walking or hiking boots is ideal. For general game drives, comfortable trainers or sturdy sandals with a good, strong sole are sufficient. Your guests should remember that morning and afternoon game drives include stops for refreshments during which they will be getting off the vehicle and stepping down into the wilderness! So flimsy footwear is not an option!

Sandals, slip-ons or flip-flops

These are a must for wearing around camp in between activities, and are great for transfers between destinations in our fleet of luxury safari vehicles.

Swimwear

East Africa's climate is equatorial, verging on tropical which means swimming is an option all year-round. Most of the camps and lodges we work with have pools, so do ask your guests to bring their swimming costumes with them. Pool towels are invariably provided.

PACKING TIPS

Wash and wear

Safari camps often provide laundry services, so your guests don’t need to pack too many outfits. Three sets of safari clothes are usually plenty, especially with the ability to wash and dry items. Encourage a mix and match approach to selecting clothing, with spare sets just in case.

Be prepared

It's always a good idea for your guests to pack a clean set of clothing and bare essentials in carry-on bags so that in the unlikely event baggage is delayed by an airline, your guests have a change of clothes and emergency supplies on hand.

Pack light

Most safari flights have strict baggage limits, often around 15kg per person in soft-sided bags. Your guests need to avoid hard suitcases as they are difficult to fit into small planes. Duffel bags are a great option and come in a range of styles and brands. The ones without wheels are lighter and easier to handle. A good tip is to roll clothes for efficient use of space, or opt for packing cubes which are highly recommended, especially for longer itineraries with lots of packing and unpacking required.

Luggage restrictions

If your guests are going to be flying on small charter planes, luggage size and weight restrictions will be much tighter than on international flights. Check with us ahead of time for the relevant restrictions so these can be passed to your guests in good time ahead of their departure.

ACCESSORIES

A few well-chosen accessories can make a big difference to your comfort and experience on safari. Here's our recommended list for your guests:

Polarised sunglasses with UV protection

The African sun is harsh, and protecting your eyes is essential. Polarised lenses can help reduce glare during game drives and are highly recommended. We also suggest bringing a spare pair just in case!

Binoculars

A good pair of binoculars enhances your guests' safari experience, allowing them to spot wildlife in detail, especially at a distance. A pair with 8x or 10x magnification is ideal for general wildlife viewing and birding.

Camera gear

Whether your guests are keen amateur photographers or just want to capture memories, a camera is a must. A DSLR with a good zoom lens (at least 300mm) is ideal for wildlife. Extra batteries, memory cards, and a dustproof bag are essentials. For those guests who take their photography seriously, a monopod or tripod are useful, as are beanbags.

A good day pack

Your guests will want a lightweight day pack to carry essentials such as sunscreen, camera gear, and water, as well as valuables. Those with padded shoulder straps and multiple compartments are ideal.

Water bottle

All of your guests will receive branded insulated water bottles on arrival as part of our white-labelled meet and greet service. This will ensure they stay hydrated throughout their stay.

Toiletries and health essentials

Safari camps and lodges will provide basic toiletries like soap, shampoo and moisturising lotion, but it’s wise for your guests to carry their own to ensure they have what they need.

Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

The African sun is relentless, even on cloudy days. Ensure your guests have sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection.

Insect repellent

A DEET-based, stick-style insect repellent is recommended to protect against mosquitoes, particularly in areas where malaria is present.

Lip balm with SPF

Dry lips are common due to the sun and wind exposure, so an SPF lip balm is a good idea.

Moisturiser

Skin can get dry due to exposure to wind and sun. A good hydrating moisturiser for both face and body is essential.

Basic first aid kit

It's a good idea for your guests to include items like plasters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, anti-diarrhoea tablets, and antihistamines in their luggage. Even though our luxury vehicles and all safari lodges and camps have first aid kits, it’s useful to have your own for small scrapes or minor ailments.

Prescription medications

Make sure your guests bring enough of any prescription medications for the duration of their trip and keep them in their original packaging. A copy of the prescription is also recommended. We do recommend them bringing a wide-spectrum antibiotic for just in case, as in remote areas it's hard to get medicine.

Malaria prophylaxis

Some safari regions in East Africa are malaria zones, so guests should consult with their doctor about anti-malarial medications and ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Yellow fever vaccination and certificates are recommended.

Money

Your guests won’t need a lot of cash while on safari, as most camps operate on a full-board basis, but it is a good idea to have some US Dollars and a credit card for personal purchases and emergencies.

Passport and visas

Please double-check entry requirements for the country your guests are visiting and ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their travel date and have at least two clear facing pages.

Travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuations, and cancellations is essential for safaris.

Tech and gadgets

Your guests should expect to be off-grid during their safari, but a few tech items can enhance their experience, such as a smartphone, tablet and/or e-reader. We do encourage guests to do a digital detox where possible on their safari, even where there is wifi available.

Power bank & universal travel adaptor

Charging outlets can be limited in remote lodges, so a power bank can help to keep your guests' devices charged. Ensure your guests bring a universal power adaptor to ensure charging is effortless.

WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME

While it will be tempting for your guests to overpack, there are some items they can definitely leave at home...

Expensive jewellery

A safari is a casual affair. Expensive necklaces and jewellery are unnecessary and can draw unwanted attention. The rule of thumb is to keep it simple.

Hair dryers and stylers

Most lodges and camps discourage the use of high-powered electronics like hair dryers due to limited electricity. So, your guests should leave them at home. Likewise, straighteners and curlers can be problematic and should be left behind.

High heels and formal wear

Safari lodges are relaxed, and your guests will spend most of their time in comfortable, practical clothing. There is no need for high heeled shoes and formal dress. Again, they should keep things simple.

Handbags/purses

Again, your guests should keep things simple. A handbag is not going to be required on safari and should rather be left at home in favour of a day pack that can house essential, everyday items. The fewer things they need to carry and transport, the better.

Make-up

Ladies should be forewarned that wearing excessive make-up on safari can be bad for their skin and impractical thanks to the heat and dust of the African wilderness. Heat and perspiration are not friends of things like mascara, eye-liner, thick foundation and lipstick. It is best to go "au naturel" and treat faces with lots of moisturiser and nourishing protection.

RELAX AND ENJOY!

By packing wisely, your guests will be well-prepared to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the African wilderness and will be able to relax and enjoy their trip. The key is to balance practicality with comfort, ensuring they have everything they need without being weighed down by unnecessary items. A well-packed bag can be the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable safari adventure!

Tarangire - a different safari experience

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:21:11 GMT

Come with us to Tanzania's breathtaking hidden gem!

While the Serengeti often takes the spotlight with its iconic Great Wildebeest Migration and endless plains stretching from horizon to horizon, Tarangire National Park offers an equally captivating yet distinctly different adventure. Here, the landscape shifts dramatically, dominated by ancient baobabs and dense woodlands that give it an intimate, almost secretive feel. A safari here is a quieter, more contemplative immersion into the wilderness, where the rhythm of the bush is felt in the gentle breeze through countless branches and the distant call of a bird, offering a personal connection to Tanzania’s wild beauty. Let's find out more about what your guests can expect from this stunning destination...

Here are a few of the excellent luxury camps and lodges we work with in Tarangire and its surrounds:

Unlike the open expanses of the Serengeti, Tarangire’s terrain encourages deeper exploration, with the winding Tarangire River at its heart providing a serpentine lifeline to the surrounding wilderness, especially in the parched dry season when visitors are treated to large gatherings of wildlife converging around this permanent water source.

Elephants dominate the scene here in staggering numbers, as family groups gather to drink, bathe, and socialise in the life-giving waters. It's not unusual to witness hundreds of these majestic creatures moving in unison across the plains, their colossal frames dusted with the red earth of Tarangire.

The park’s wildlife diversity is not confined to elephants alone. Tarangire teems with life, with its grassy plains and acacia-dotted landscapes home to buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and impala. Predators are plentiful with lion, leopard, and the elusive cheetah, all lying in wait for an opportunity.

Ancient sentinels

As you journey deeper into this wilderness, the stark silhouettes of baobab trees punctuate the horizon, their swollen trunks and gnarled branches standing as sentinels over the savannah. Some of these baobabs are said to be over a thousand years old, their ancient presence lending an almost mythical quality to the land.

These giant trees are more than just icons of the African bush – they are vital to the ecosystem. Storing vast reserves of water in their cavernous trunks, baobabs are lifesavers for animals during the driest months. The hollowed-out trunks provide shelter for birds, bats, and even elephants, while their fruits offer nourishment to a myriad of species. The striking contrast of these towering trees against the tawny grasslands creates a landscape that is as enchanting as it is wild.

Plentiful activities

Birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise in Tarangire, with more than 550 bird species recorded in the park. From the elegant sweep of the grey crowned crane’s wings to the vibrant flash of the southern carmine bee-eater, Tarangire is alive with avian splendour. The kori bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird, can also be spotted here, stalking the open plains in search of prey. The park’s seasonal wetlands attract an array of waterbirds and waders, while raptors soar overhead, ever watchful.

The park’s charm extends beyond the wildlife; it is the feeling of solitude that sets Tarangire apart. With fewer visitors than other Tanzanian parks, you can savour the wilderness in peace, often encountering animals without the presence of other vehicles. Tarangire also offers a more adventurous experience through its walking safaris, where you can explore on foot, guided by an expert who reveals the secrets of the bush. These treks immerse you in the sounds and scents of the wild, a thrilling departure from the confines of a vehicle.

For those seeking even more adventure, night drives open up a world few get to see. As the sun sets and the sky transforms into a blanket of stars, the park comes alive with nocturnal creatures. The piercing eyes of bush babies blink in the trees, and the haunting call of the hyena echoes across the plains, creating an atmosphere charged with the energy of the night.

Hot-air ballooning is also available, as are visits to local Maasai communities to learn more about their fascinating and ancient culture.

A haven for fauna and flora

Beyond the large mammals and birds, Tarangire is a haven for smaller creatures. The termite mounds scattered across the park are engineering marvels, supporting ecosystems within ecosystems. From reptiles basking in the sun to small mammals seeking shelter, these mounds play a crucial role in maintaining the park’s ecological balance. They are also instrumental in soil aeration, helping to nurture the land’s plant life.

Speaking of flora, the park’s vegetation is as diverse as its fauna. Some 700 plant species thrive here, from the iconic acacia tortilis with their umbrella-like canopies to the dense riverine forests that fringe the Tarangire River. Each plant community supports a unique set of animals, and the seasonal shifts in vegetation create a dynamic environment where wildlife must constantly adapt.

When to visit

The best time to visit Tarangire is during the dry season, from June to October, when the animals congregate around the dwindling water sources. However, the green season brings its own magic, transforming the park into a lush oasis, with wildflowers blooming and newborn animals taking their first steps. This is also the prime time for birdwatching, as migratory species arrive in large numbers, adding further richness to the park's extraordinary biodiversity. We call it the "secret safari season" for good reason - it really is East Africa's best-kept secret and absolutely incredible to witness.

Conservation is central to Tarangire’s story. Efforts to combat poaching, restore habitats, and engage local communities in preservation efforts are crucial to maintaining the park’s delicate balance. These initiatives not only safeguard the animals but also ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at the park's unspoiled beauty.

Put Tarangire on your radar

Talk to us about including a stay in Tarangire on your Tanzanian itinerary. Or let us put together a customised safari for a specialist group - the park is perfect for birding, wildlife photography and keen botanists!

Top things to do in Nairobi

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 05:43:03 GMT

Explore this magical capital city in a variety of ways!

When travel arrangements require spending some time in Kenya's capital of Nairobi, your clients don't need to worry because this colourful city offers an eclectic mix of activities that combine wildlife encounters, rich cultural heritage, and tantalising food experiences. Whether your clients are history buffs, nature lovers, or foodies, Nairobi has something for everyone. Here's some of the top activities we can weave into our itineraries to introduce your clients to the best Nairobi has to offer...

Visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is an absolute must. Located in Nairobi National Park, this sanctuary is renowned for its orphaned elephant rescue and rehabilitation programme. Every morning, visitors can observe baby elephants enjoying a playful mud bath and a feeding session. During the visit, they can also foster an elephant, rhino, or giraffe through the trust's global fostering programme, making a meaningful contribution to Kenyan wildlife conservation.

Explore the Karen Blixen Museum

Step back in time with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum (pictured at the top of the page), the former home of the famed Danish author of Out of Africa. Located at the foot of the Ngong Hills, the museum provides a fascinating insight into the colonial history of Kenya and the life of Blixen herself. The grounds also feature a charming shop offering handcrafted souvenirs, books, and more. There's also the chance to explore the surrounding gardens or enjoy a meal at the nearby Karen Blixen Coffee Garden.

The Giraffe Centre

Just a short distance from central Nairobi, the Giraffe Centre offers a unique chance to interact with endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Visitors can feed these gentle giants from a raised platform and learn about the centre’s successful breeding and conservation efforts. The giraffes aren’t the only residents — warthogs also roam freely, adding to the fun and wildlife encounters that families will adore.

Carnivore Restaurant

For foodies, a trip to Nairobi wouldn’t be complete without experiencing The Carnivore, Nairobi’s famed meat-lovers' haven. Known as the "Beast of a Feast" this iconic restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat banquet of exotic meats like ostrich and crocodile, alongside more familiar fare such as pork and lamb. Meat is roasted over a traditional charcoal pit and carved directly onto your plate. For a true taste of Kenya, order the signature Dawa cocktail, served with flair by the restaurant’s "medicine man".

African Heritage House

Perched on a hill overlooking Nairobi National Park, the African Heritage House is often described as the most photographed house in Africa. Designed by Alan Donovan, the building is a tribute to African architecture, inspired by the ancient mud mosques of Mali and featuring an impressive collection of African artefacts. Guests can explore the house’s beautifully decorated rooms, each representing a different African culture, and enjoy authentic African cuisine while soaking in panoramic views.

Browse the Maasai Market

For a truly authentic shopping experience, head to the vibrant Maasai Market. This open-air market offers an array of colourful crafts, jewellery, clothing, and homeware — perfect for souvenirs. Each day, the market moves to a different location around the city, but the Saturday market behind the Hilton Hotel in Nairobi’s city centre is particularly popular.

The Nairobi Gallery

Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian-style building, the Nairobi Gallery is a national monument showcasing art from both local and international artists. A highlight of the gallery is the Murumbi Collection, featuring an impressive selection of African artefacts, including postage stamps, wooden jugs, and folk art. Art lovers will find plenty to admire in this historical space.

Kiambethu Tea Farm

Just outside Nairobi, in the lush highlands of Limuru, the Kiambethu Tea Farm offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Kenya’s rich tea history. Visitors can join a guided tour to learn about tea production, stroll through beautiful gardens, and spot colobus monkeys in the indigenous forest, ending the visit with a cup of the farm’s finest brew and a traditional cream tea.

All of the above activities can be included in your itinerary and our team takes care of all of the arrangements and transfers, leaving your clients stress-free and able to relax and enjoy their time in Nairobi. Let us know if there is anything else you would like to include and let's chat about the possibilities and logistics.

Serengeti - an African legend

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 05:35:22 GMT

Discover Tanzania's most iconic national park

It's a name synonymous with wild Africa... Serengeti. A name derived from the Maasai word siringit, which means "endless plains". Located in northern Tanzania, this UNESCO World Heritage site sprawls over 14,750 square kilometres, encompassing an array of ecosystems that host an astounding diversity of flora and fauna. Renowned for the annual Great Wildebeest Migration, the park is a living testament to the beauty and complexity of the natural world, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness its unparalleled wildlife spectacles first-hand. Let's find out more about this incredible destination...

The history of Serengeti National Park dates back to 1951, when it was established as a protected area to conserve the unique landscapes and extraordinary wildlife of the region. Its name aptly describes the vast, open savannah that stretches as far as the eye can see and beyond, creating endless horizons and a sense of wonder. Before it was declared a national park, the Serengeti was the traditional land of the Maasai people, who coexisted with the region's wildlife in a delicate balance that continues to influence conservation efforts today.

Geological marvel

Geologically, the Serengeti is a marvel, featuring a complex tapestry of terrains that range from volcanic grasslands to riverine forests. The park sits atop a plateau between the eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley and the shores of Lake Victoria. This varied landscape is punctuated by granite outcrops known as kopjes, which provide shelter and vantage points for predators like lions and leopards. The Seronera River, a vital water source, winds through the central Serengeti, sustaining life even during the dry season. To the north are the Grumeti and Mara rivers, each renowned for the dramatic river crossings made by migrating wildebeest and zebra on their never-ending, circular odyssey.

As diverse as it is large

The biodiversity of the Serengeti is nothing short of astounding. The park is home to more than 500 bird species and 70 large mammal species, including the famed Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Additionally, the Serengeti supports significant populations of cheetah, giraffe, eland, and Grant's gazelle. The diverse habitats within the park, from acacia-dotted savannahs to dense woodlands and marshes, create a dynamic environment where countless species thrive.

Central to the Serengeti’s global acclaim is the Great Wildebeest Migration, often hailed as the most dramatic wildlife event on Earth. Each year, some 1,5-million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras, embark on a perilous journey that spans nearly 2,000km in search of fresh grazing and water. This epic trek, driven by the cycles of the rains, involves river crossings fraught with danger as predators lie in wait. The migration’s timing and routes are dictated by ancient survival instincts, offering a spectacle of life and death that underscores the raw power of nature.

A conservation icon

The Serengeti’s significance as a conservation area cannot be overstated. It serves as a critical refuge for endangered species and a genetic reservoir that ensures the long-term survival of numerous wildlife populations. The park is managed by the Tanzanian National Parks Authority in collaboration with various international conservation organisations. Efforts focus on combating poaching, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, and preserving the ecological integrity of the region. The success of these initiatives is evident in the thriving wildlife populations and the park’s resilience in the face of growing environmental pressures.

The park’s importance extends beyond its borders, influencing conservation strategies across East Africa. The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, shared with Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, forms a contiguous habitat that supports the migration and other ecological processes. This transboundary conservation model exemplifies the collaborative efforts necessary to protect biodiversity on a regional scale.

Timeless beauty

Visitors to the Serengeti National Park are often struck by the sheer scale and timeless beauty of the landscape. From the golden plains teeming with wildlife to the tranquil moments at dawn when the savannah comes to life, the Serengeti offers a profound connection to the natural world. Whether witnessing a lion pride on the hunt, observing the intricate social structures of elephant herds, or marvelling at the avian diversity, each experience in the Serengeti leaves an indelible mark.

In essence, the Serengeti National Park is more than just a protected area; it is a symbol of nature’s grandeur and a beacon of hope for conservation. Its vast landscapes and rich biodiversity serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet’s natural heritage for future generations. As the world continues to change, the Serengeti stands as a timeless testament to the enduring beauty and resilience of the wild.

Talk to us today about including the Serengeti in your northern Tanzania itinerary.

What to do in Volcanoes National Park

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:29:23 GMT

There's so much more than just gorilla trekking on offer!

Rwanda's breathtaking Volcanoes National Park is renowned the world over as being the home of the endangered mountain gorilla and the place where you can trek to encounter these fascinating great apes in their natural habitat. But a stay in this incredible place is not complete unless you explore more and sample everything else that's on offer, getting a real taste of this amazing and jaw-droppingly beautiful East African country in the process! So let's look at what else you can do in VNP...

Culture on tap

Visiting local people in the various communities around VNP is an absolute must, learning about traditional village life and traditions that have been handed down over countless generations. Visitors can participate in basket making, pottery, grinding corn the traditional way, cooking and sampling traditional cuisine.

Visit Ibyiwacu

Get to sample a true traditional Rwandan cultural homestead, learning about the King's Court, known in traditional folklore as the Mwami, and witness the energentic Intore war dance performed by warriors for the king.

Visit Dian Fossey's tomb

Trek to the final resting place of renowned American primatologist Dian Fossey of "Gorillas in the Mist" fame. She played a critical role in helping to protect and conserve the mountain gorilla population and habitation around and within the Volcanoes National Park.

Hike Mount Bisoke

Bisoke is a dormant volcano situated within the Volcanoes National Park and is part of the Virunga mountain range. The full-day hike up to the peak of the mountain and back is professionally guided and while it is quite a strenous and challenging hike that requires a good deal of physical fitness, there are porters that help hikers with their equipment and bags for a fee. Once at the top, you are rewarded with magnificent views of the forest and the crater lake below.

Muhabura Hike

An adventure hike on Mount Muhabura is one of the most memorable activities in Rwanda. Like Bisoke, Muhabura is a volcano that is part of the Virunga Volcanoes Massif. The top of this volcano has a spectacular crater lake. It takes up to six hours for experienced hikers and mountaineers to get to the peak, but the hike is planned as a full-day activitity with stops along the route. Porters are also available for those keen on having their equipment carried for a fee.

Full-day Gahinga hike

Gahinga sits next to Muhabura, but the climb is completely different as Gahinga is covered in vegetation almost to the summit of the mountain. While it is not as steep as Muhabura, it can be challenging because of the dense vegetation and sometimes muddy terrain.

Buhanga Eco Park visit

Buhanga Eco Park is a small forest that sits about 8km outside Musanze (the main town in northern Rwanda). It offers opportunities for guided nature walks as well as cycling along designated routes. The forest is dominated by magnificent dragon trees and is home to a number of rare birds species. Bird lovers will find this a rewarding experience and the best time to visit the forest is in the early morning or late afternoon when the birds are at their most active and birdsong fills the air.

Cave visits

Due to the volcanic activity the forged Volcanoes National Park, there are a number of caves in the area. Musanze Cave is the most commonly visited and is 2km long. It lies in the volcanic region where lava flow layers dating from 65-million years ago created the Albertine Rift Valley. The cave has a total of 31 entrances and the main chamber is vast, with several side passages leading off from it. Over the aeons, collapses have created a truly incredible array of coloured shafts of light.

There are a total of 52 surveyed caves in the Northern Province of Rwanda covering more than 15km of cave passages. The longest cave in Rwanda is called “Ubuvumo Bwibihonga” - a multi-level system of parallel lava tubes that extends to well over 4.5km in length.

Golden monkey trekking

Golden monkeys are found in the high altitude bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Like the mountain gorillas, the golden monkeys have become habituated, meaning that they are used to human beings and will not scamper off when approached by visitors. A subspecies of the Sykes monkey, golden monkeys are found both in the Volcanoes National Park and the Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda. There are two habituated golden monkey troops in VNP, ranging up to 100 members in each group.

The golden monkey treks begin at Volcanoes National Park’s Kinigi Headquarters at 7am. As with gorilla trekking, it's best to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, a hat, light rain jacket, waterproof hiking boots, a waterproof daypack, with some snacks, enough bottled water and camera equipment. The services of porter can be engaged to assist you with your day pack and free you to take pictures of the golden monkeys in their habitat.

Let us know what your clients would like to do when we are putting together your Rwanda itinerary and we will make all of the arrangements for these amazing activities.

All about Ngorongoro

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:19:23 GMT

Explore this fascinating East African treasure with Anderson & Harvey

Among the most remarkable natural and cultural treasures on Planet Earth, Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater and its surrounding conservation area are jewels in East Africa's tourism crown, drawing thousands of visitors each year to marvel at the breathtaking landscapes, phenomenal wildlife and ancient history this region is imbued with. Vast, diverse and truly spectacular, the Ngorongoro is a founding pillar of Tanzania's northern circuit and an absolute must on any safari itinerary. Let's find out why...

First off, let's get the pronunciation right... It's "ungoro-goro" and the Maasai named it after the sound their cow bells make. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the Great Rift Valley, and is renowned for its stunning geological features, rich biodiversity, and archaeological significance.

The crater stands within the surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) - a unique ecosystem spanning approximately 8,292 square kilometres that harmonises wildlife conservation, human culture, and scientific exploration. The crater itself is a marvel of nature, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes and thriving wildlife.

Geological wonder

Formed approximately 2.5-million years ago due to volcanic activity, it's not a crater in the traditional sense but rather a caldera — one of the largest intact calderas in the world. This depression was created when a massive volcano, once believed to be even taller than Mount Kilimanjaro, erupted and collapsed inward. The caldera is about 610m deep and more than 260 kilometres in diameter.

The forces that shaped the Ngorongoro Crater are part of the broader tectonic processes that created the Great Rift Valley, a geological phenomenon extending from Lebanon in the Middle East to Mozambique in southeastern Africa. The region's intense volcanic activity has been key to shaping the diverse landscapes, with the resulting fertile soils and varying altitudes giving rise to a multitude of habitats.

Diversity aplenty

The Ngorongoro Crater is often referred to as the "Garden of Eden" for its extraordinary biodiversity and near-complete ecosystem. Despite its relatively small size, it hosts over 30,000 large animals, including some of the most iconic species in Africa. The crater’s floor is dominated by grasslands, interspersed with patches of acacia woodland, swamps, and a central soda lake, Lake Magadi. The lake, whose waters are rich in sodium carbonate, supports vast flocks of flamingos that add vibrant colour to the landscape.

The crater is home to an impressive array of species, including the "Big Five" — lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. It is one of the few places in East Africa where black rhinos can be observed in their natural habitat. The density of lions within the crater is particularly high, and the population is famous for its stability.

Predators such as hyenas, jackals, and cheetahs thrive in this environment, supported by a large prey base of herbivores like wildebeest, zebras, and various antelope species. Remarkably, the crater also harbours unique populations of animals like the golden jackal and serval, which have adapted to the specific conditions of this semi-enclosed environment. The Lerai Forest on the crater floor is home to a small population of elephants, distinguished by their unusually large tusks.

The NCA is not limited to the crater alone. It extends to diverse landscapes, from highland plateaus to savannahs and woodlands, offering a range of ecological niches. The region’s rich variety of habitats is home to approximately 550 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The NCA also supports large migratory populations of wildebeest and zebras, which pass through during their annual migration to and from the Serengeti.

A hotbed of human history

Beyond its ecological significance, the NCA is home to the semi-nomadic Maasai people, who have coexisted with the wildlife for centuries. The Maasai graze their livestock within the conservation area, exemplifying a rare model of human-wildlife coexistence. Their traditional practices are carefully managed to avoid significant disruption to the ecosystem.

The NCA is a cradle of human history, holding some of the most important archaeological and palaeontological sites in the world. Olduvai Gorge is often dubbed the "Cradle of Mankind." It is here that the pioneering archaeologists Louis and Mary Leakey discovered fossils that revolutionised our understanding of human evolution. In 1959, they unearthed the remains of Paranthropus boisei, a hominid species that lived about 1,8-million years ago. Further excavations revealed tools and other artefacts that suggest this area was inhabited by some of the earliest human ancestors.

Nearby, the Laetoli site is famous for the discovery of fossilised hominid footprints preserved in volcanic ash, dating back over 3,6-million years. These tracks, believed to have been made by Australopithecus afarensis, are among the earliest direct evidence of bipedalism in human ancestors. The archaeological significance of these finds has placed the NCA at the forefront of discussions on human origins.

A lake like no other

At the centre of the Ngorongoro Crater lies Lake Magadi, a shallow soda lake with a surface area that fluctuates depending on rainfall. The lake's high alkalinity supports the growth of cyanobacteria, which in turn attracts large flocks of flamingos. These birds feed on the microscopic algae and crustaceans that thrive in the alkaline waters. The flamingos, with their striking pink plumage, create a spectacle against the backdrop of the crater's walls, drawing photographers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe.

Lake Magadi is also a crucial water source for the wildlife within the crater. During the dry season, the lake shrinks, and its remaining water becomes highly concentrated with minerals, resulting in vivid white and pink hues. The surrounding marshes and wetlands provide critical habitats for hippos, waterbucks, and a variety of wading birds.

On the crater rim and in the region around it you'll find a wonderful range of accommodation options, some with exceptional, panoramic views of the crater itself. If you'd like to include the Ngorongoro in your Tanzania itinerary, chat to us about your options and we'll make sure your clients get the very best experiences available.

Top 10 things to do in Arusha

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:25:15 GMT

There's lots to see and do in Tanzania's safari "capital"!

Arusha, the vibrant gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit, is brimming with an array of engaging activities that offer a deep dive into the local culture, history, and natural beauty. Located in the shadow of Mount Meru, this stunningly scenic city is the point of access to some of the country's most celebrated safari destinations - the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and the Grumeti. But it's also worth exploring and indulging in some truly local flavour. Here are the top 10 things to do in Arusha...

1. A city tour of Arusha

Perfect for those wanting to experience the lively pulse of this bustling safari city, the adventure starts at the central market, where you can witness the vibrant trade in fresh produce, livestock like free-range chickens, goats, and sheep, and the colourful Maasai market, where Maasai women showcase their intricate beadwork. The Arusha History Museum offers fascinating insights into the town's ancient past and Tanzania's rich history, culminating in a delicious Swahili lunch that will leave you enchanted.

2. Materuni Village visit

For an immersive cultural experience, a visit to the Maasai Materuni Village is a must. This full-day or extended two-day visit begins with a trip to a local school supporting less advantaged children and orphans. Engage in volunteer activities such as painting desks, donating books, or serving lunch, before heading to Maasai land to experience a day in the life of this iconic East African tribe.

3. Kikuletwa Hot Springs

A visit to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs provides a relaxing escape in the heart of the African savannah. Just a two-hour drive from Arusha, this oasis offers stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. Perfect for a day trip, the hot springs promise a rejuvenating experience.

4. Coffee Tour

Coffee enthusiasts will love the Coffee Tour, where you get a hands-on understanding of coffee production from start to finish, including picking berries, processing, shelling, grinding, roasting, and brewing. Tanzanian peaberry coffee beans are globally cherished for their unique flavour and aroma. You'll also learn about Meru traditions surrounding coffee and have the chance to roast some beans to take home as a delightful gift.

5. Lake Duluti

For a tranquil escape, canoeing and bird-watching on Lake Duluti is a serene experience. This beautiful crater lake near Arusha is ideal for observing a variety of water birds. The diverse landscape of Lake Duluti and its surrounding forestry reserve also offers excellent opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.

6. Maasai Cultural Museum

The Maasai Cultural Museum, located 25km west of Arusha, provides a deep dive into the rich traditions and customs of the Maasai tribe. This guided tour introduces visitors to the various stages of Maasai life and their unique societal structure, offering an unforgettable journey into the vibrant culture, history, and traditions of the Maasai people.

7. Horse riding

For those seeking adventure, Mount Meru Horse Riding at Ngare Sero Lodge is an unforgettable experience. Located at the foot of Mount Meru and surrounded by lush coffee plantations, this activity caters to both beginners and experienced riders. Choose between a one-hour ride around the lodge grounds or a two-hour adventure on the village trails, exploring the green hilly slopes of Mount Meru on horseback, guided by a personal guide for an enjoyable ride.

8. Cook up a storm

A culinary adventure awaits with a cooking class in Arusha. Dive into the local culinary scene with visits to local farms and vegetable gardens, followed by a trip to a local market. Under the guidance of a local expert, you'll select fresh ingredients and learn to prepare traditional African dishes, discovering how to present and enjoy these meals in the authentic African way.

9. "Kili" day hike

For those yearning to experience the majesty of Kilimanjaro without the commitment of a full ascent, a day hike exploring the Shira Plateau is perfect. This short ramble on the western side of Kilimanjaro National Park offers a taste of high altitude and breathtaking views, with a picnic lunch in the shadow of Kibo, the highest peak of Kilimanjaro.

10. Tee off in style

Golf enthusiasts will find a haven at the Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate (Kiligolf), situated a swathe of prime African bushland between Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru. With views of the Maasai Steppe and the ancient Eastern Arc chain, including the Pare, Usambara, and Blue Mountains, this estate offers a championship golf course where visitors can enjoy 9 or 18 holes of golfing in a stunning setting.

Destination: Uganda

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:17:40 GMT

Explore this fascinating East African country with us

Offering incredible diversity in terms of landscapes, wildlife, and culture, Uganda is packed with wonderful destinations, superlative experiences, and exceptional accommodation options. An Anderson & Harvey safari to this wonderful East African nation is bound to impress and we pride ourselves on creating exceptional Ugandan itineraries that encapsulate the vibrant spirit of this fascinating country. Let's find out more about it...

There's no doubting Uganda's appeal as a safari destination. It's renowned the world over for being home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas, with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park its crowning glory. This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws visitors from across the globe every year in search of unique interactions with these incredible great apes.

Gorilla trekking is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. The excitement of navigating the rainforest, guided by skilled trackers, culminates in an extraordinary hour spent with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Observing mothers cradling their young, playful juveniles exploring the undergrowth, and powerful silverbacks overseeing their group is a profoundly moving experience that highlights Uganda's remarkable conservation efforts.

But there's so much more to Uganda than gorillas and its diversity extends beyond the ancient forests of Bwindi. Kibale National Park, for example, is a lush rainforest that's home to an incredible array of primate species - the most famous of which is our closest "relative" - the chimpanzee. Here they can be seen literally swinging through the canopy, their calls resonating through the dense foliage. Red colobus monkeys, with their striking black and red fur, leap between branches, while L'Hoest's monkeys shyly pose for photographers.

More 350 bird species inhabit Kibale, from the elusive African pitta to the vibrant great blue turaco. For thrill-seekers, a canopy walk through Kibale rainforest, crossing suspended bridges high above the forest floor, offers a unique perspective of the lush vegetation and the chorus of birdlife below.

For a different experience, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a more traditional safari experience, with the added drawcard of offering boat-based safari options on the Kazinga Channel, a waterway teeming with hippo and crocodiles, and surrounded by lush savannahs and woodlands filled with elephant, buffalo, and diverse bird species. Here lions climb trees, creating unique photo opportunities!

Murchison Falls National Park also provides a fabulous African safari experience, with its vast savannahs and acacia woodlands filled with wildlife, including herds of elephant, giraffe, zebra, antelope, and exceptional birdlife. Predators like lion and leopard add to the allure of this world-class safari destination. The park's highlight is Murchison Falls, where the nascent Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular waterfall. It's here you can also see the spectacular shoebill stork - a top "tick" for avid birders!

For those seeking adventure, Uganda offers challenging hikes such as the ascent of Mount Elgon, a dormant volcano with stunning panoramic views. Reaching the summit rewards climbers with breathtaking vistas.

On the cultural front, Ugandan cuisine is a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation. Savour "luwombo," a stew of meat or fish cooked in banana leaves with vegetables and spices, a staple of Ugandan cuisine. Enjoy "rolex," a popular street food consisting of an omelette rolled in a chapati, or try "matoke," steamed and mashed plantains served with a savoury sauce. Ugandan coffee, renowned for its rich and aromatic flavour, is a must-try for coffee enthusiasts.

Uganda's cultural tapestry is as rich as its natural beauty. The country is home to over 50 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, music, dance, and crafts. The Baganda, the largest ethnic group, are known for their vibrant ceremonies and intricate bark cloth creations. Traditional dance and music performances, featuring instruments like the adungu (a type of harp) and the embaire (a large xylophone), provide a captivating insight into Uganda's cultural heritage.

From a cultural perspective, the vibrant capital city of Kampala is a destination worth exploring, offering a dynamic blend of urban experiences, cultural interactions, and historical exploration. Numerous tours are available to help visitors make the most of their time in this bustling city. From guided city tours that take you through the heart of Kampala, exploring its key landmarks and historical sites, to arts and food tours delving into the bustling markets and local art, music, and restaurant scene, there's something for everyone.

Get in touch to chat to us about putting together a Ugandan safari for your clients.

Working with the best

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:14:56 GMT

Creating safari perfection with our valued partners

When it comes to crafting incredible luxury safari itineraries for your clients, we rely on a network of superlative accommodation providers across East Africa. From beautiful boutique hotels and guest houses in key locations to remote safari lodges and bush camps in pristine wilderness areas, we've forged partnerships with some of the most iconic safari brands in Africa to give your clients the very best safari possible.

Every journey we deliver is like Hollywood movie. Anderson & Harvey are the producers and directors working with a cast of impressive talent to create safari blockbusters! Each of our Bespoke Travel Designers is an assistant director making sure production runs smoothly, effectively setting the stage for the journey of a lifetime in some of the most awe-inspiring locations in the world!

And what a cast we have - all of them veritable safari superstars and A-listers in their own right. They are our partners and include multiple award-winners, pioneers and trailblazers who have set the safari world alight with their phenomenal brands and reputations for excellence across the board.

Singita, &Beyond; Wilderness; Great Plains Conservation; Elewana; Lemala; Cottar's... All legendary names that need no introduction to anyone working in the African safari industry. Add to them a new breed of outstanding, bill-topping brands like Chem Chem; Alex Walker Serian; Nimali; Meliá; Laba Laba; and Angama and you have safari gold on tap.

Partnerships are an integral part of A&H's business. It's in our brand DNA to create exceptional teams of people and service providers who together contribute to the phenomenal safaris we put together for you and your clients. So, when you work with us, you're getting the benefit of a dream team of safari and travel experts, hospitality geniuses and tourism gurus who all have one goal in life - blowing the socks off your clients by delivering truly life-changing, authentic African experiences.

We regularly visit all of our partner properties so that we can get first-hand experience of what's on offer and find out about new updates, and latest developments and all of the activities on offer. It's an important part of what we do, and it translates into first-class product knowledge and an intimate understanding of every destination and activity we include in our itineraries.

This means if your clients are a multi-generational family on their first African safari, we know exactly which accommodation options are going to suit them best. Or if they're celebrating a landmark anniversary, birthday or family achievement, we understand in an instant where's best for what and all of the amazing surprises we can incorporate into their special occasion.

Birders? No problemo - we know all the best spots and the best destinations to keep everyone enthralled. Photographers? Yes please! We love crafting special interest safaris and have partners we know can deliver the goods and then some!

Our partner network is extensive enough to cater for all requirements, all interests and all occasions. There really is something for everyone! But our real superpower lies in our ability to give you a price guarantee that few other DMCs are able to offer. We either match or better any quote our agents find.

On top of this we offer a four-hour turnaround time for quotes, together with an itemised breakdown. And remember that we NEVER go direct, working only with the trade. What more do you need? Feel free to tell us - that's what partnerships mean - working together to make sure everyone is happy with everything!

We can't wait to work with you!

Kenya - Where it all began...

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:05:49 GMT

Discover Kenya, the traditional home of the safari

It's a Swahili word that changed the way we travelled across Africa... "Safari"... It means "journey," and in Kenya, that journey becomes an unforgettable adventure. This East African nation is the traditional home of the safari, and with good reason. From the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration of the Masai Mara National Reserve to Mount Kilimanjaro presiding over the rolling grasslands of Amboseli National Park, there's nowhere quite like it...

It's easy to love Kenya. Think "Out of Africa" – the movie that ignited a global passion for this incredible country, its spectacular landscapes, captivating wildlife and wonderful people. An ancient land, Kenya is steeped in history, unique cultures and tribal traditions and is home to big skies, vast plains, glistening lakes and dramatic mountain peaks. It's where the action of two tectonic plates pulling away from one another has created an awe-inspiring chasm we call the Great Rift Valley.

Incredible national parks and conservancies teem with wildlife and play host to a diverse range of accommodation options from boutique guest houses and luxury lodges to stylish tented camps and bush retreats. Add to this some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa and you have a veritable paradise waiting to be explored. Kenya's Indian Ocean coastline is quite simply breathtaking, with soft, powder-white sand fringed by endless palm trees overlooking a dazzling, azure sea. It doesn't get much better!

Hotspots include the Masai Mara National Reserve and its neighbouring conservancies where you can witness the incredible spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration with its cast of millions of wildebeest supported by hundreds of thousands of zebra performing a never-ending circular journey that follows the rain, and fresh grazing, year in, year out.

Amboseli National Park is renowned for its elephants and the instantly recognisable iconic view of Mount Kilimanjaro, which lies just across the border in neighbouring Tanzania. The beautiful Laikipia Plateau is perfect for escaping the crowds and immersing yourself in Kenyan heritage. It's a vast, remote wilderness with jaw-dropping scenery, views of Mount Kenya and a rich diversity of wildlife and tribal cultures.

Mombasa is Kenya's oldest and second-largest city and is a vibrant cultural melting pot with stunning beaches and a rich history dating back centuries. With some of the best resorts in East Africa offering the chance to indulge in sun, sea and sand, it's the perfect compliment to a traditional safari. Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks together form one of the largest conservation areas in Kenya. Tsavo is home to a wide variety of wildlife and hundreds of bird species.

The capital of Nairobi is also worth spending time in, with a wide variety of activities and interesting places to visit on offer.

More than anything, a visit to Kenya is a cultural immersion, offering a chance to witness ceremonies, interact with friendly locals, and gain a deeper appreciation for the warmth, diversity, and rich traditions that define this remarkable country. Kenyan culture is a veritable kaleidoscope reflecting the colourful tapestry of fascinating tribes that make this country so special. More than 40 ethnic groups contribute their unique customs, languages, and dress to the country's cultural mosaic.

Family forms the core, with strong ties extending beyond parents and children to a network of relatives. Hospitality is a key value, with greetings involving warm handshakes and shared meals. Respect for elders is paramount, as they are seen as vessels of wisdom and guidance.

Food is a delicious journey in Kenya - a "safari" if you will! Ugali, a cornmeal porridge, is a national staple, while regional specialties like nyama choma (grilled meat) and the Luo people's fascinating insect delicacies add flavour to the experience. The coastal areas boast fresh seafood influenced by Arabic and Swahili traditions.

Regional specialties further enrich the experience. The Luhya people in the west savour ingokho, a chicken and ugali dish, while the Kalenjin of the Rift Valley enjoy mursik (fermented milk) with kimyet (ugali) and isageek (vegetable relish).The Kikuyu community in central Kenya incorporates tubers like sweet potatoes, arrowroot, and yams alongside legumes into their meals.

Art and music are also steeped in Kenyan culture. Traditional dances narrate stories and celebrate occasions, while intricate beadwork, carvings, and textiles showcase the country's artistic heritage. Religion is a blend of Christianity and Islam, coexisting peacefully with traditional African beliefs.

The weather's generally great in Kenya, thanks to it being equatorial. It can vary depending on altitude and region, but the period from December to March is usually the warmest of the year, while June to August are the coolest. April and May often see intermittent rains, and from September to November the days are warm with short, scattered rains falling in November.

Most of Kenya experiences highs ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s degrees Celsius (mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit). Sunshine is abundant, making it a great destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Great Rift Valley region experiences slightly hotter temperatures but is generally dry with limited rainfall. The Kenyan coast enjoys a tropical climate with high humidity (especially between December and March) and warm to hot temperatures year-round. The Indian Ocean is warm making it perfect for swimming and water activities.

Kenya's central highlands, including Nairobi, experience a more moderate climate with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Rainfall is more frequent here, especially during the long rainy season (March to May) and the short rainy season (October to December).

The best time for wildlife viewing often coincides with the dry season (June to February) when animals congregate around water sources. However, some areas like the Masai Mara National Reserve offer exceptional wildlife viewing year-round.

Talk to us about organising a Kenyan safari for your clients and we'll plan a superlative itinerary that takes in the very best this amazing country has to offer.

Putting your brand first

Thu, 30 May 2024 14:38:50 GMT

The fine art of white-labelling and how we do what we do...

When you work with Anderson & Harvey and allow us to create customised East African safari experiences for your clients, you may be surprised to learn that it's your brand we put in the spotlight in everything we do. Known as white-labelling, we build on the relationship you already have with your clients, reinforcing it with lots of little finishing touches that keep your brand front and centre at all times. Here's how...

It all starts with our investment into your brand. When you send us an enquiry, we allocate a designated bespoke travel designer to you who will be your go-to person from start to finish. In this way our team actually becomes part of your team, working directly with you to craft safari magic for your clients. And you get one-on-one service from the get-go, with our people available to your clients 24/7 and always reachable.

You send us your corporate identity and we ensure it's strategically placed on all itineraries, client-facing documentation and information. We also create branded gifts for all safari-goers with your logo prominently placed on water bottles and a range of customised goodies designed to spoil your clients rotten. Your brand also goes on the sides of our luxury vehicles and on the tyre covers at the rear, and on the uniforms our guides wear. Essentially, we become you!

This gives you the opportunity to tap into our extensive experience and expertise, as well as our well-established infrastructure and product offering, while maintaining your brand visibility throughout the duration of your client's journey with us. It's brand building extraordinaire and a great way for you to offer a broader range of services and destinations through a partnership that benefits us both.

Our relationship-building doesn't stop there, though. As a partner of Anderson & Harvey you also get the benefit of our network of hand-picked and personally vetted partners across East Africa, providing luxurious accommodation, activities and tours. And you get all of this at unbeatable prices with our guarantee that we will match or better any quote you find. It also allows us to build unique proposals for you and your clients, with itemised quotation breakdowns. Remember, too, that we never, ever go direct, working only with trade partners.

Every safari we put together is accompanied by exceptional guides, all of whom have been personally trained by us to offer the highest level of professionalism and support for the duration of your clients' safari with us. Each of our guides has a wealth of experience and expertise in all things East Africa and more than a decade of leading first-class luxury safaris across the region.

The level of the service we offer you as a partner agent is without compare, with our team going the extra mile to include lots of wonderful extras that enhance the guest experience. It all starts with a wonderful meet and greet at the point of arrival, with a proper red carpet experience complete with welcome drinks and refreshing towels designed to kick off the safari in the right way.

A welcome hamper await in our tour vehicle, with luxury branded gifts lovingly packaged for each guest. Our vehicles have been customised to make them among the most comfortable and practical in East Africa, carrying a maximum of six people in absolute style.

With on-board fridges stocked with your guests' choice of snacks and refreshments, unlimited wifi, charging stations for cameras and gadgets, dedicated iPads for guest use, books packed with photographic tips and picnic lunches extraordinaire, travelling with Anderson & Harvey is a breeze.

Chat to us about partnering with Anderson & Harvey and putting your brand in the East African safari spotlight!

Rwanda revealed

Thu, 30 May 2024 14:34:44 GMT

Discover the legendary Land of a Thousand Hills with us

Renowned for towering peaks that pierce the sky, lush rainforests teeming with life and warm, welcoming people, Rwanda offers a unique blend of safari experiences that leave a lasting impression on all who visit. With a history etched with both tragedy and resilience, this beautiful East African nation's story is one of transformation and hope. So let's explore it in more detail...

An Anderson & Harvey safari to Rwanda inevitably wows everyone who travels with us, offering up incredible diversity in terms of landscapes, wildlife and culture. Packed with wonderful destinations, superlative experiences and exceptional accommodation options, we pride ourselves on creating Rwandan itineraries for your clients that encapsulate the vibrant spirit of this fascinating country.

The crown jewel of Rwanda is undoubtedly Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its population of critically endangered mountain gorillas. Here, amidst the misty slopes of dormant volcanoes, these gentle giants have captured the imagination of the travelling world.

Trekking to see these magnificent creatures is an experience that stays with you forever. The thrill of navigating the rainforest, accompanied by experienced trackers, culminates in a magical hour spent observing a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Witnessing mothers cradling their young, playful juveniles frolicking in the undergrowth, and silverbacks overseeing their groups is a humbling experience that fosters a deep appreciation for Rwanda's ongoing conservation efforts.

It's good to know that Rwanda's wildlife tapestry extends far beyond the iconic mountain gorillas and towering peaks of the Virungas. Nyungwe National Park, a verdant expanse of montane rainforest, for example, shelters a remarkable diversity of primates. Here, chimpanzees still swing through the ancient canopy, their calls echoing through the dense foliage. Colobus monkeys, with their striking black and white fur, leap between branches, while golden monkeys pose shyly for keen photographers.

More than 700 species of birds call this rainforest home, from the elusive Ruwenzori nightjar to the vibrantly coloured paradise flycatcher. Adrenaline seekers can embark on a heart-pounding canopy walk through the Nyungwe rainforest, traversing suspended bridges high above the forest floor for a unique perspective of the lush vegetation and the symphony of birdlife below.

Or how about taking a boat trip on Lake Kivu, one of East Africa's Great Lakes? The crystal-clear waters and verdant hillsides surrounding the lake create a picture-perfect postcard scene.

Akagera National Park, on the other hand, offers a quintessential African safari experience. Vast savannahs teem with wildlife, with the golden grasslands and acacia woodlands being home to to herds of elephants and plains game such as giraffe, zebra, antelope and exceptional birdlife. Add predators like lion and leopard into the mix and you have a world-class safari destination. Akagera's success story is particularly inspiring, as the park has seen a significant reintroduction of wildlife following years of depletion.

This transformation is echoed by Rwanda's journey over the past few decades. The scars of its dark past are undeniable, but the nation has risen from adversity with a spirit of unity and determination. Today, Rwanda is considered one of the safest and most stable countries in Africa. Kigali, the vibrant capital city, pulsates with energy. Clean streets lined with cafes and bustling markets reflect a sense of progress and optimism. Visitors are invariably struck by the warmth and hospitality of the Rwandan people, their smiles a testament to the nation's resilience.

Kigali is truly a wonderful city where your clients can immerse themselves in Rwanda's rich and colourful heritage, exploring historical sites that tell the story of Rwanda's past, from ancient royal palaces to poignant memorials and museums that serve as a reminder of the nation's remarkable journey.

For adventurous spirits, Rwanda caters with challenging hikes like the slopes of Mount Bisoke, a dormant volcano that offers stunning panoramic views. The reward for reaching the summit are breathtaking vistas.

Rwanda's culinary scene is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Savour a plate of "ishagara" - a hearty stew of grilled beef served with vegetables and plantains, a staple dish in Rwandan cuisine. Sample brochettes, marinated meats grilled to perfection on skewers, or indulge in "injera," a spongy flatbread that makes a delicious accompaniment to stews and vegetables. Rwandan coffee, known for its smooth and aromatic flavour, is a must-try for any coffee aficionado.

Whether your clients are looking for the classic "gorillas in the mist" encounter, a thrilling wildlife safari, or a journey into some of Africa's most vibrant cultures, Rwanda offers an unforgettable East African experience and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit it.

Talk to us today about creating a customised, white-labelled Rwanda safari for your clients.

Tantalising Tanzania!

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:13:55 GMT

Top experiences to add to a Tanzania safari

Renowned as one of the best safari destinations in Africa, Tanzania is famous around the world for the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti National Park. However, there's much more to this country than just wildebeest and the vast, grassy plains of the Serengeti...

Tanzania has everything your guests could wish for on a safari itinerary, from searching for rare, endemic birds in the Tarangire swamps to spending time with the forest-dwelling chimpanzees of Gombe National Park and exploring the world's largest intact volcanic caldera.

The country is also home to one of Africa’s most beautiful coastlines. Historic Zanzibar is one of the best-loved of East Africa's islands and is a huge drawcard for watersports enthusiasts, scuba divers and keen snorkellers.

Here, then, are some of the top experiences we can add to your guest's Tanzania safari itinerary...

Millions of wildebeest and more

Every year, approximately 2-million wildebeest, zebra and other antelope make the cyclical journey between the plains of the southern Serengeti ecosystem and those of the Masai Mara in neighbouring Kenya. This is the Great Wildebeest Migration, nicknamed "The Greatest Show on Earth".

The timing of the migration is determined by the rains and the availability of good grazing, and the route is fraught with danger – especially during river crossings. January and February are the best months for witnessing the wildebeest calving season and the big cat predations that come with it in Ngorongoro’s Ndutu Plains.

June and July are considered peak season for catching the herds in the Western Corridor and Grumeti Game Reserve. During this time, the herds first cross the Grumeti and then the Mara River, giving visitors the chance to witness tragedy and triumph in equal measure as the animals attempt to navigate steep cliffs, strong currents and lurking crocodiles. Read more about it in our dedicated migration blog .

Explore an ancient volcanic crater

To the southeast of the Serengeti National Park lies another jewel of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit: the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The highlight of this region is the Ngorongoro Crater, a breathtaking natural phenomenon that's the largest intact caldera in the world. Its steeply sloping sides create a natural amphitheatre that's home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa – making for exceptional game viewing, including the Big Five - elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard.

The elephants that live in the caldera are renowned for their incredibly long tusks, and the black rhino population is one of the healthiest in the country. Other sought-after species include cheetah and painted wolves (African wild dog) - the second-rarest canid in Africa after the Ethiopian wolf.

Tree-climbing lions

Continuing on the northern circuit, Lake Manyara National Park is a hidden gem. Spanning just 325 square kilometres, it's much smaller than its more famous neighbours but makes up for it with 11 different ecosystems and an incredible concentration of game.

The stars of the show are undoubtedly the park’s tree-climbing lions. That's right - lions can and do climb trees and researchers have suggested that this behaviour has developed from the need to use trees as vantage points for spotting game, and to escape from the flies and heat of ground level.

Seeing lions in trees provides an unmissable photo opportunity and in between sightings visitors can enjoy the rich birdlife of the reserve’s eponymous soda lake – including seasonal flocks of pink flamingos.

Birding in Tarangire National Park

If birding is your guests' passion, then a few days in Tarangire National Park are a must. Located just south of Lake Manyara, Tarangire is renowned as one of the best birding destinations in Tanzania, with more than 550 recorded species and a diverse range of habitats including the perennially green Silale Swamps.

Incredibly, the swamps support more breeding bird species than any other single habitat on the planet. From November to April, wet and warm conditions result in an abundance of insect life which in turn attracts migrant bird species from across Africa, Asia and Europe. This is the best time to travel for keen birders. Specials to look out for include the yellow-collared lovebird, the rufous-tailed weaver and the ashy starling, all of which are Tanzanian endemics.

The cradle of humankind

Between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti lies Olduvai Gorge, one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites. It was here that famed archaeologists Louis and Mary Leakey discovered hominid fossils that redefined our understanding of how modern humans - Homo sapiens - evolved from their prehistoric ancestors.

Some of their most important discoveries include hominid remains estimated to be 1,75-million years old and a set of fossilised footprints that prove hominids walked on two legs at least 3,7-million years ago. You can see casts of these footprints at the Olduvai Gorge museum, along with prehistoric tools and examples of other hominid and animal fossils found at the site. Some digs are still operational and can be explored on a guided tour.

Experience remote in Ruaha

Located in Tanzania’s remote and untamed central region, Ruaha National Park spans some 20,220 square kilometres and is the largest national park in all of East Africa. Because of its size it's also one of the most diverse in terms of eco-systems and biomes and is bisected by the perennial Great Ruaha River.

Ruaha is home to unusual antelope like roan and sable and one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania, with more than 570 different bird species making it a hotspot for keen birders. It's also famous for its high concentration of predators, with 10% of Africa's lions calling Ruaha home, along with large populations of cheetah and painted wolves.

Chimp trekking in Gombe

In the extreme west of the country is Gombe National Park, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika near the Burundi border. Defined by dense, mountainous rainforest, Gombe is most famous for its chimpanzee troops – some of which have been habituated to allow contact with human visitors by iconic primatologist Dr Jane Goodall.

Since the 1960s, Dr Goodall has conducted her pioneering research from the Gombe Stream Research Centre, and much of what we know about chimps today is based on her findings.

Visitors can take part in a guided chimpanzee trek and come face-to-face with these intelligent primates, with whom we share over 98% of our genetic code. Other animals to look out for in the forests of Gombe include endangered ashy red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and red-tailed, blue and vervet monkeys.

Island paradise

After exploring the game reserves of the Tanzanian interior, add another dimension to guests' itinerary with a visit to the coast. Zanzibar is home to stunning white sand beaches, and clear turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. It’s also steeped in history, thanks in large part to its role as a major port on the medieval trade route between Arabia, Persia and the African coast.

Ivory, gold and slaves all exchanged hands here, but Zanzibar was most famous for its spices. Over the centuries, its wealth attracted African, Islamic, Portuguese, Ottoman and British invaders, all of whom left their architectural influences behind them.

Plan your migration safari

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:12:44 GMT

A month-by-month guide to the Great Wildebeest Migration

Every year, the Great Wildebeest Migration unfolds across the vast expanse of Tanzania's Greater Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve. This natural phenomenon involves approximately 2-million wildebeest, zebra, and other antelope on a clockwise journey from the Southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara and back.

Driven by the quest for optimal grazing grounds, many animals perish due to hunger, exhaustion, and predation by lions, leopards, and other carnivores. Rivers filled with hungry crocodiles pose additional challenges, leading to an estimated 250,000 wildebeest deaths annually. Despite its dangers, the Great Wildebeest Migration remains one of the most dramatic safari experiences and lives up to its nickname of "the greatest show on Earth".

It's important to remember that the migration isn't a singular event but a continuous cycle that's entirely dependent on rainfall patterns. Although timing can be unpredictable, past observations provide insight for planning optimal safari experiences, so here is a general "rule of thumb" rundown of the migration month-by-month, to help you understand this incredible natural phenomenon and the best times to travel.

January - February

During January and February, the majority of the herd congregates on the Ndutu Plains within Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here, they graze on nutrient-rich grasses and give birth to nearly 500,000 wildebeest calves. At its peak, during this time some 8,000 calves are born each day and witnessing births and predator activity is most prevalent during this period. However, if rainfall has been insufficient, the herds may scatter in search of better grazing.

March - May

As March arrives, the herds continue grazing in Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti, with calves gaining strength for the northward migration. By April, they begin to move through the Moru Kopjes and Seronera areas. May sees the migration progressing north-westward through the Central Serengeti toward the Western Corridor, coinciding with East Africa's long rainy season and sometimes challenging conditions.

June - July

In June, the herds arrive in the Western Corridor and Grumeti Game Reserve, preparing for the perilous Grumeti River crossings. Mating season courtships and rivalries ensue, leading to heightened predator activity. By late June, the herd braves the river's currents and crocodiles. Witnessing this spectacle showcases nature's raw power.

August - October

Throughout August, the herds traverse the Northern Serengeti and Kenya's Mara Triangle, crossing the Mara and Talek Rivers multiple times in search of optimal grazing. The lack of a single crossing point adds to the challenge of predicting their movements. By September, the majority of the herd arrives in the Masai Mara, marking the peak season for witnessing the migration in Kenya.

November - December

As November brings the short rains to the Southern Serengeti, the herds begin migrating southward, starting in the Northern Serengeti and progressing to the eastern regions. By December's end, the majority return to the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains, ready to commence the cycle anew.