Well first up you should realise that East Africa is a big place and narrow your requirements. Stick with any of the countries or one of them or all for the trip. Never miss a beach holiday at Lake Bunyonyi which is found in a place commonly known as the Switzerland of Africa and a few other resorts. Beware Bilharzia in some lakes but Bunyonyi is said to be ok.

Africa's rhinos have become so rare

More so if still not sure of what to do buy a travel guide still reliable despite some few changes and use it for you’re planning. Gorilla permits are US$500 in Uganda (Bwindi National Park) and but US$750 in Rwanda (Parc Volcans) but it is a great experience. There is also lots of other wildlife opportunities and a myriad of Birds in all the countries.

East Africa is ideal for a vacation due to its beautiful scenery, historic location wealth of

Cultural activities and breathtaking landmarks that may delight all those who wish to try something new or adventure. Africans are very friendly folk in deed and will make you most welcome.

Posted by Kenya trips

In Kenya great conservation efforts have been taking place in order to conserve the few remaining rhino populations. However, even in these protected areas such as national parks the Rhinos still are faced with a huge threat from poachers due to the high demand for their horns that are used in different traditional medicines some as aphrodisiacs as well as for making ornamental pieces.

One of the protected areas where rhinos can be found in Kenya is Tsavo national park; however the threat from poachers is still very imminent in the area. The Kenya Wildlife Service’s recently released a statement saying that a female rhino of about eight years old was recently killed by poachers in the national park. Immediate investigations led to the arrest of about eight poachers who were found in the protected area.

The carcass of the eight year old female rhino was sighted by the Kenya Wildlife Service team as they did an aerial patrol of the area around Ngulia sanctuary in the national park which is bigger than the size of Wales.

The fact that its horn was missing led the patrol team to immediately suspect that this was no natural death but a case of poaching in the area.

The authorities are carrying out investigates to find out the circumstances that led to the death of the female rhino and also bring the senseless culprits to justice.

Africa’s national parks and protected areas are faced with rampant poaching and in Kenya, the practice was outlawed in 1977.

Tsavo national park has also a good population of elephants and these coupled with rhinos are a huge target for poachers who aim for their tusks and skins which fetch very good sums in the black market.

Kenya Wildlife Service is a statutory body mandated with the protection of wildlife in Kenya. The country is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. Some of the animal species that can be found in the region are giraffes, lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, elephants and leopards.

The most popular tourist attraction however is the annual wildebeest migration in Masai Mara national park. Here herds of over one million wildebeest and zebra move through the reserve from the Serengeti national park which is one ecosystem with the Masai Mara national reserve. This annual wildebeest migration is one of wildlife’s greatest spectacles.

The investigations by the Kenya Wildlife Service which led to the capture of the suspects also yield two illegal fire arms in a nationwide sweep for illegal activities in Kenya’s national parks.

The one week operation also led to the recovery of about five tusks of elephants that were found in the central Kenya area of Nyahururu as well as the northern Kenya areas of Isiolo and South Turkana.

The Kenya Wildlife Service has upped its game in ensuring the protection of Kenya’s wildlife. There is now a more concerted effort with the other security agencies in Kenya in order to help curb the increased poaching in Kenya’s national parks and protected areas. The body also says it highly appreciates the efforts being put in by the public in fighting poaching in the country.

Posted by Kenya safari

For more about Rhinos in Uganda visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

The conference was attended by delegates from 154 countries which make up the members of the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UNWTO.

The goal of UNTWO is to help foster tourism development in member countries. In the Conference members shared their success stories as well as challenges and ways to help boost world tourism.

According to Mr. Najib Balala’s Ministry  “Kenya’s enactment of the tourism bill, diversification of markets and focus on new and emerging markets and the efforts towards marketing East Africa region as a favorable tourist destination are some of the things that the tourism ministry is currently focusing on will be among highlight of Kenya’s delegation agenda,’’

The United Nations World Tourism Organization was last held in the Kenya town of Mombasa prior to the held in Korea.

According to Mr. Balala if tourism is properly handled and enhanced, it could be a way out of poverty for many households in Kenya. According to him one of the key Millennium Development Goals is poverty alleviation and this can be achieved not only in developing countries but also in developed countries and tourism is one of the means to achieve this.

One of the Key projects being supported by the United Nations World Tourism Organization is STEP – Sustainable Tourism Eliminating Project. This is a project that is being used to point out and facilitate projects that are targeted at poverty alleviation.

One of the projects that is done under the auspices of United Nations World Tourism Organization is Kitengela project. The project has enabled the building of a footbridge that links Nairobi National Park to Kitengela. This is just one of six projects being supported by UNWTO in Kenya.

The Kitengela footbridge has many carefully designed footpaths from and to it and links to the Nairobi national park.

Kenya tour packages have evolved over the last couple of years and though a Masai Mara tour is still the main Kenya tour attraction there have been new packages introduced to help foster and diversify the industry.

This success was attributed to Honorable Najib Balala who was the minister of tourism. However this highly successful Minister and Chairperson of the UNWTO Executive committee, has been sacked in the new cabinet reshuffle.

It is alleged that this was due to his disagreement with the Prime Minister who is the chairman of the Orange Democratic Movement party as well as presidential aspirant Mr. Raila Odinga. The two titans locked horns when Mr. Balala accused Hon. Raila Odinga of despotic and undemocratic tendencies leading to the Orange Democratic Movement Party presidential candidate normination.

It is expected that Mr. Balala will now join a new party and it is highly expected that he will join ranks with President Kibaki and put his political clout behind him.

Following the 2008 electoral violence Mr.Balala put his efforts into the rebuilding the country’s image to attract tourists to the country. It is believe that his hands-on management style coupled by his close involvement in Kenya’s tourism sector is what led to the turnaround of events in the industry.

Many people have already expressed their disappointment with the turn of events regarding the changes in the Ministry. Mr. Balala was replaced by the MP for Voi Constituency Mr. Danson Mwazo.

Stakeholders in the tourism industry say that the timing of events couldn’t have been any worse given that global economic downturn and the upcoming presidential elections later in the year. They argue that the change in the guard is ill timed taking in to consideration the track record of Mr. Balala and the facts on the ground at the moment.

Mr. Najib Balala who was once a mayor of Mombasa was well versed with the needs of the industry and was an avid lobbyist for more funding of the tourist industry as well as Kenya tourist Board which is charged with marketing the Kenya tourism industry. Of all the countries in East Africa, Kenya has the largest budget for marketing its tourism potential in the region of $10m compared to that of Uganda which is estimated to be about $300,000.

It is believed that new Minister will find it hard to win over the stakeholders in the industry especially the private sector. He will have to do his utmost knowing that any mistakes will be pounced on by those who are disgruntled with the change of guard.

Some of the greatest Kenya safari are attractions are: Masai Mara tour packages which offers opportunities to see the annual wildebeest migration in Masai Mara. The Mara has been describe as the greatest wildlife show on earth.

Other Kenya safari packages include: Tsavo, Nakuru, Amboseli, Lake Turkana and Aberdares national parks. Kenya birding safari packages can be done in Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria and in the rift valley in general.

Animals found in Nairobi national park:

1.       76 black rhinos that are indigenous to the park including 13 exotic white rhinos

2.       40 lions are found in the park all of which are under the Lion Id project and are identified by their whiskers which are all very unique like the finger prints of humans.

3.       Jackals

4.       Leopards

5.       Cheetahs

6.       Stripped hyenas

7.       Aardwolf – a nocturnal hyena which is very rare.

8.       The tiny Zorilla

9.       Clawless otter

10.   Chandler’s reedbuck

Nairobi national reserve was once an elephant migration corridor and part of the Amboseli national park and Masai Mara game reserve ecosystem.

The park acts as a refugee in the dry season for the wildlife from the Athi-Kapiti plains as well as the Kitengela plains.

A lot of development has taken place around the park affecting the wildlife in Nairobi national park. For instance although, it was once a migratory corridor, the last elephant seen trekking through the corridor was in the late 1990s.

Nairobi national park was also the second largest wildebeest migration but with the construction of the Mombasa road through the Athi Plains the migration of the wildebeest was greatly affected.

The number of wildebeest in Nairobi national reserve has drastically reduced to about less than 1,000 from about 100,000 which was then reduced in 1975 to about 28,000 wildebeest.

Another wildlife species that was on the brink of extinction in Nairobi national park was the African wild dog which is regarded as highly endangered at the moment. It is not uncommon to see one trotting along the park with a collar as most of them are tagged to help in tracking the animals.

Zebras which are less migratory in nature have increased greatly in the national park. The areas surrounding the national consists of over 60 acres of communally owned land and some of this land is being used for wildlife and livestock raring as well as ecotourism and is regarded as a well-planned pastoralism.

Nairobi national park also has some rock paintings and art that have been around for centuries.

There’s centuries-old Rock art in caves inside the park.

The park provides advantages to the neighborhood such as insects for pollination, clean water and air, research opportunities as well as tourism opportunities.

End of Article

Kenya tour packages including Masai Mara tour packages and also for more information on Tanzania national parks visit Tanzania Travel Guide

In Tsavo national park which is the national game reserve in the World with the remaining population of red elephants in the wild poachers recently ambushed and killed tow game rangers.

According to the KWS- Kenya Wildlife Services officials the rangers were killed by poachers while they were on their duty patrolling the national park.

KWS officials said, “Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) regrets to announce the death of two rangers while on duty on Friday morning”.

Poaching in the national park has gone on for quite a while now and has escalated over the years. Poachers use different techniques such as wire traps and all forms of snares. The rangers were sadly killed as they went around the park removing the snares in the national park. The poachers also usually target the rangers’ guns and bullets which they took in this case. The poachers were carrying out their duties in the Sagala Ranch area.

The incident sparked a huge manhunt for the culprits with officials from the Kenya Wildlife Services in conjuction with other security agencies. The manhunt led to the arrest of 33 people who are now helping with the investigations with the hope of catching the culprits.

The officials have combed the area in search of the stolen guns as well to rid the area of poachers. Kenya Wildlife Service said, “The families of the deceased have been informed of the tragedy while burial arrangements are underway”.

For your Kenya Safari packages such as Masai Mara tour and for more information on other national parks like Masai Mara national park

According to Dr. Rick Potts the place has so many prehistoric tools and they can easily be found in sediments when digging through the layers of soil in the area.

The prehistoric site was originally discovered in 1919 by John Walter Gregory and was eventually visited by Louis and Mary Leakey in 1942 that have done great fossil hunting in Kenya over the last century. The area has a gang walk all over the area which was initiated by the first African Archaeology Congress which was held in 1947.

According to Mr. Potts who has studied the area more than any other person in the last 30 years, Olorgesailie has sediments with each layer telling a lot about the history of mankind. He has worked in conjunction with the National Museums of Kenya closely over the years.

The area is full of prehistoric tools and bones as well as fossilized papyrus which are buried deep in the layers of sediment. The papyrus suggests there was a lake in the area, however it is now a dry dusty area with day time temperatures soaring to 40 degrees celcius. The area is buried in dust layers from the volcanic ashes of the nearby Mount Olergesailie and Mount Esakut. Remains of elephus recki which is believed to be closely related to the present day Indian elephant and is larger than the present elephants have been unearthed in the area.

According to Dr. Potts during a conference which was organized by the Prehistory Club and Kenya Museum Society which was held in the National Museums of Kenya, hand axes keep rolling out the layers of sediment in the region and he believes that the tolds which have been used for over 1.5 million years were first used in Africa before the technology was transferred to areas like Asia and Europe.

PARTNERS: Find your gorilla safari in the leading gorilla trekking company.

Archaelogist says the olorgesailie sites represent two eras the most recent being the Middle stone-age site which dates back to 500,000 years to 100,000 years ago during which was the time that they used the  sophisticate flakes. The flakes are sharp-edged tools which are made from a precise strike on a core stone. The earliest time being the hand axe site is between 1.2 million to 500,000 years ago. However according to Dr. Potts the stones used to make the tools are not found locally and were from 150 kilometers away an indication that people exchanged products even as far back. The Middle Stone age is a time that is characterized by increased social networks, smaller technology and increased use of symbols which corresponds with modern African wildlife.

The Olorgesailie is the largest studied site in the world for the period covering the period of 1.2 million years ago. It is also the oldest known middle Stone Age site in the whole world.

For your Uganda Safari as well as  Kenya safari visit Kenya travel packages

After breakfast in Nairobi you proceed westerns to Lake Nakuru. This is one of the parks famous for the protection of birdlife. The scene of Lake Nakuru is one projected to sweep you of your feet. Over 450 species of birds have been recorded. The sight of millions of flamingoes colors the lake pink and it is an astonishing experience. Dinner and overnight at a camp or lodge.

Day 2 Lake Nakuru – Lake Bogoria

On this day after a hot cup of coffee/tea, we will proceed to the Jewel of the Great Rift Valley. Lake Bogoria, also acknowledged for the hot sulphur water gushing out of the grounds, is the exact definition of nature’s version of bath and Sauna. Dinner and overnight at a camp or lodge.

Day 3 Lake Bogoria – Lake Baringo

Check into our lodge or camp on this Rift Valley Lake. This is one of frequented areas in Kenya by those seeking some silence and peace of mind. You take a boat to the Baringo Islands for short nature walks. Dinner and overnight at a camp or lodge (FB).

Day 4 Lake Naivasha – Hell’s Gate

This day will be started with a morning walk after breakfast around the Lake. This will be followed by a few hours of relaxation before lunch. Afternoon walk to Hell’s Gate National Park, breeding home of the Lammergeyer Vultures in Kenya. Dinner and overnight in Naivasha camping or lodge.

Day 5 Lake Naivasha – Masai Mara Tour

The expedition will take us to the world-renowned habitat, famous for the annual migration, The Masai Mara National Reserve. This is the Kenya’s number one Park and a tradition for every bird watcher and wildlife safari tourist to visit. Masai Mara crowns the peak of every safari because of its cosmic grasslands and the abundance of species. Dinner and overnight at a camp or lodge

Days 6 Masai Mara Tour

The early morning drives facial appearance highly on our mornings. Full of action of both the birds and wildlife, another memorable day is in store for us. You will not only spend the days trying to identify the over 450 species, but also the rest of the wildlife will take their share of your time. Dinner and overnight at your lodge or camp.

Day 7

After breakfast you will depart back to Nairobi for your airport transfers back home.

End of safari

This electrifying tour will commence with a morning drive to diverse Amboseli National Park – home to prolific flora, fauna and avifauna. Lunch, an afternoon game drive, dinner and overnight at Ol Tukai Lodge (FB)

Day 2: Amboseli Safari, Kenya Tour Packages

This will be followed by enjoying the striking views of Mount Kilimanjaro while participating in morning and afternoon game drives, discovering the wonders of the Park. Lunch, dinner and overnight at Ol Tukai Lodge (FB)

Day 3: Amboseli Safari – Nakuru national park, Kenya Safari

Initiate the day with a morning drive through Nairobi to the floor of the Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. Lunch, an afternoon game drive, dinner and overnight at Lion Hill Sarova Lodge or similar on a full board basis.

Day 4: Nakuru – Masai Mara Safari Holiday, Kenya Safari

Take pleasure in a morning game drive across the Rift Valley down to the Masai Mara Game Reserve – one of the world’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. Lunch, an afternoon game drive, dinner and overnight at Mara Simba Lodge on a full board basis.

Day 5: Masai Mara Safari Kenya, Kenya Tour Packages

Ascertain the fabulous Masai Mara, home to a fruitful range of wildlife, birdlife and plant life. Morning and afternoon game drives gives the climax to witness game at a close range and learn more about the bush. Lunch, dinner and overnight at Mara Simba Lodge on a full board basis.

Day 6: Masai Mara Safari Holiday – Nairobi, Kenya Safaris

After an early morning game drive and breakfast, drive to Nairobi reaching in time for lunch on your own account before you proceed for the airport transfers.

Inclusive:

Services of an English speaking driver/guide
Game viewing and park entrance fees as per itinerary
Accommodation as per itinerary
Transport in a custom built minivan
All Government taxes and levies

Exclusives:

All items of a personal nature e.g. telephone calls
Tips and gratuities to hotel, lodge, camp staff and driver/guide
Any other item not mentioned in this itinerary
Alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
Holiday supplements over Christmas and New Year
Laundry services

Day 1 :  Fly To Samburu National Park

Fly in the morning to Samburu National Park where you will be met by a guide from Kenya Safari Places and transfers you to your camp for lunch, an afternoon game drive, dinner and overnight.

Day 2:  Samburu Game Watching Safari

You will spend a whole day in game watching novel with an early wake-up call for a hot cup of coffee /tea, soon after the early morning game drive. Though temperatures are a bit low in the morning, there is the likelihood to watch the animals at their active moments. Go prevailing for more game in the afternoon and not to miss the beautiful sceneries. Dinner and overnight at your camp (FB)

Day 3 : Samburu  Game Drive Tour

Start with an early morning game drive perhaps along the Ewaso Nyiro River, which forms the southern boundary of the park. Many small herds of elephant are often seen bathing in the River or browsing in the riverine forests along the riverbanks. After breakfast at your camp you constrain to the airstrip for your flight to Masai Mara, which arrives at approximately midday.

Day 4:  Arrive At Masai Mara National Park

You will check into the lodge, then next upgrade for lunch. Afternoon game drive starts at 1530 and ends between 1800-1830.

Day 5: Masai Mara Game Drive

Early morning game drives at 0630 returning for full breakfast at 0900. Afternoon at leisure followed by 1530 game drive, dinner and overnight at the camp (FB).

Day 6: Masai Mara Morning Game Drive

This day will be started with early morning game drive; breakfast taken 0830 and depending on your flight grid leave for Nairobi’s Wilson airport.