Over mij/mijn reis

Dit wordt waarschijnlijk de meest avontuurlijke reis die ik tot nu toe heb gemaakt: met Nomad Adventure Tours 35 dagen door Oost Afrika (35 days East Africa &Gorillas). Het is echt een 'adventure tour' door maar liefst 6 landen in Oost Afrika.De tour start op 17 september 's morgens vroeg In Victoriafalls/ Zimbabwe. Vervolgens reizen we door Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania (uiteraard Serengeti en Ngorongoro) om op 7 oktober in Nairobi/Kenya aan te komen. Nu we er toch eenmaal zijn, gaan we daarna nog 14 dagen door via oa het Masai Mara National Reserve naar Oeganda. Daar vindt, als alles goed verloopt, op 14 of 15 oktober de zeer bijzondere Gorilla-trekking plaats in het ondoordringbare nevelwoud tegen de grens met Rwanda en Congo. De tour eindigt op 21 oktober in Nairobi en dan ben ik op 23 oktober weer thuis.

Hieronder een van dag-tot-dag overzicht van de reis. Op de kaart heb ik het reisschema ook aangegeven. Even inzoomen op de kaart en je ziet het in detail voor je!

KORT REISSCHEMA

UITGEBREID REISSCHEMA

35 DAY EAST AFRICA & GORILLAS

Gorilla trekking requires a reasonable level of fitness as the trekking could take anything from 1 –9 hours through dense tropical jungle conditions. Rangers  monitor the gorilla families daily however the gorillas move continuously and their sighting cannot be guaranteed and this is why we set aside more than one day for trekking.  Once the gorilla family is located, one hour is set aside to spend with them.  They may or may not stick around for the hour but you will have plenty of time to photograph them and be in their gracious presence.  Please ensure that you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots and remember to carry at least 1.5 liters of water.  No children under the age of 16 may visit the gorillas. All information is subject to change without prior notice. Travel times and campsites can change depending on road or weather conditions, etc. These are used as a guideline only. On our longer tours it is possible that your crew, truck and fellow travellers will change due to our unique tour linking system. On this tour you will be travelling together with a maximum number of 18 participants

Vehicle : Adventure Truck  / safari vehicle

Departure Point : 6.00 am from the Elephant Hills Resort, Park Way Drive, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Tel: +263 13 44793. www.africansunhotels.com

End Point : Sentrim Boulevard, Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: +254 20 315680 www.sentrimhotels.net/sentrim-boulevard-nairobi

Countries Visited : Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda

Day 1 (17 sep) Lusaka

Leaving behind the natural wonder of Victoria Falls we begin our expedition. After Livingstone we journey towards the bustling Zambian capital of Lusaka. You will notice the vegetation becoming sub-tropical and the roads a little rougher.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Eureka Camp: www.eurekacamp.com Facilities: En-Suite, hot showers,bar, swimming pool Route: Victoria Falls to Lusaka ±510 km Travel time: ±7-8 hrs and a border crossing

Border posts:                                                              Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Bridge (no telephone number) Open: 06h00-20h00 Zambia: Victoria Falls Bridge (no telephone number) Open: 06h00-20h00

Lusaka

Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia. The two main languages spoken in Lusaka are English and Nyanja. It is located in the southern part of the central plateau of the country at an elevation of 1300 m and has a population of 3 100 000 (2007 estimate). With one of the fastest growing city centres in Africa, Lusaka is located in a productive farm area and is the administrative, financial and commercial center of Zambia. It is thought that with proper and effective economic reforms, Lusaka as well as Zambia as a whole will develop considerably. Lusaka is home to a diverse community of foreigners, many of whom work in the aid industry as well as diplomats, representatives of religious organizations and some business people. According to history, Lusaka was once the site of a village named after its headman Lusaka which was located at Manda Hill, near where the National Assembly building now stands. In the local Nyanja language, manda means graveyard. The area was expanded by European (mainly British) settlers in 1905 with the building of the railway. In 1935, due to its fairly central location on the railway and at the crossroads of the Great North Road and Great East Road, it was chosen to replace Livingstone as the capital of the British colony of Northern Rhodesia. After the federation of Northern and Southern Rhodesia in 1953, it was a centre of the independence movement which led to the creation the Republic of Zambia. In 1964 Zambia became the ninth African state to gain independence from the British crown and President Kaunda took power, with Lusaka as its capital.

Day 2 ( 18 sep) Chipata

Today is a long drive through lush country, crossing rivers en-route to Chipata, the gateway to the South Luangwa NP. Zambia is truly African and an adjustment from the more Western ways of Southern Africa.

Chipata

Chipata has a population of around 75 000 and is the capital of the Eastern Province of Zambia. Formerly known as Fort Jameson, the city is located near the border of Malawi on the highway connecting the capitals Lilongwe (130 km) and Lusaka (550 km). As we drive from Lilongwe to Chipita in Malawi there is a steady stream of people and transport bringing in supplies that are not always readily available elsewhere in Africa. You will also find colourful fruit and vegetable markets and an unexpected amount of ornate mosques due to its large Islamic Indian community.

Day 3 (19 sep)  South Luangwa National Park

Early in the morning we drive from Chipata to the border of the South Luangwa National Park where we spend the next two nights right on the banks of the Luangwa River. You can often see hippos and other animals from the camp bar. This afternoon we enjoy a sunset game drive in the South Luangwa NP.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Permanent Tent: Wildlife Camp: www.wildlifecamp-zambia.com Facilities: hot showers, bar, laundry, drinkable water, swimming pool Route: Chipata to South Luangwa National Park ±155 km Travel time: ±3-4 hrs (bad road conditions) Activity package: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa NP

Day 4 (20 sep)  South Luangwa National Park

In the morning you have the opportunity to take another game drive. The park is known for its high concentration of leopards and hippos. After lunch we visit the community run tribal textile project and a local village. Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive, Game Walk inside park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Permanent Tent: Wildlife Camp: www.wildlifecamp-zambia.com Facilities: hot showers, bar, laundry, drinkable water, swimming pool Activity package: Village and textile visit

South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia is a world-renowned wildlife haven, and famous for walking safaris. It supports large populations of Thorneycroft's Giraffe, and herds of elephant and buffalo often several hundred strong, while the Luangwa River supports abundant crocodiles and hippopotumus. Founded as a game reserve in 1938, it became a national park in 1972 and now covers 9 050 square km. Hippos thrive here due to the patches of flooded grassland habitats (floodplains) that are found close to the river, on which they graze at night. It is possible to see pods of up to 500 hippos in the dry season as the river shrinks and they are confined to areas of deep pools. On average there are probably 35 – 42 hippos per km! They are integral to the ecosystem here, their dung released into the river fertilises its waters and sustains the fish population which in turn sustains the crocodiles. The park is also reputed to have the highest concentration of leopard in Africa. It is estimated that there is one leopard for every km of river in the Luangwa Valley, so your chances of seeing this elusive nocturnal cat are very high.

Day 5 (21 sep) Lilongwe

Today we depart the South Luangwa National Park and head towards the bustling city of Lilongwe. En route, we will stop at a local market to experience the culture and way of live of the Malawian people.

Day 6/7  (22-23 sep) Kande Beach

This morning we have the opportunity to participate in a 2 hour city tour, before we take a scenic drive to Kande beach. We will spend the next 2 days enjoying the many optional activities available, such as horse riding and different water sports. We will go on a guided village walk in order to meet the local people and learn more about Malawian life. Optional Activities: Lilongwe city tour, Scuba diving, snorkeling etc.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Kande Beach: www.kandebeach.com Facilities: Shared ablutions, hot showers, bar Route: Lilongwe to Kande Beach ± 465 km Travel time: ± 6-7 hours Activity package: Guided village walk

Lake Malawi

The lake, third largest in Africa and eighth largest in the world, is situated between Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. The lake's tropical waters teem with more fish species than any other lake on earth and offers wonderful snorkelling and diving experiences. The fish also support the local people, who depend on the lake for survival, using dug-out canoes to set out long nets. There are many different ethnic groups living in the vicinity and many different dialects are spoken. Many are Christians, as a result of the numerous misionaries that passed through the area, while many have retained their traditional belief systems. In 1859 David Livingstone reached Lake Malawi when he was trying to put an end to the slave trade. He then returned in 1861 accompanied by seven missionaries. They opened a mission station in the south lake area but suffered from malaria, illness and conflict with slavers. In 1864 the surviving missionaries withdrew to Zanzibar. Livingstone then returned to the region in 1866 as part of an expedition to find the source of the Nile. In 1869 he pushed north and was out of contact for two years. He was found by journalist Henry Stanley on the banks of Lake Tanganyika in 1871 and Stanley uttered the famous words “Dr Livingstone I presume”. Livingstone continued on his mission and died at a village called Chitombo in Zambia in 1873. His death rekindled a desire in missionaries to come to Malawi and eventually, after setting up missions in various bad malaria areas, they set up a mission called Livingstonia in the highlands of the eastern escarpment (with no malaria). It is still in operation today and visitors can hike to the mission. The walk is quite strenuous and you should be reasonably fit especially if it’s hot. It’s about a 6 to 8-hour round trip.

Day 8  ( 24 sep) Lake Malawi -Chitimba

We travel further north and spend our last day in Malawi at Chitimba beach. Set on a golden sandy beach amongst banana palms and papaya trees, our accommodation for the night is surrounded by the famous Livingstonia and Nyika mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Chitimba: www.chitimba.com Facilities: Shared ablutions, hot showers, landry, internet, shop Route: Kande Beach to Chitimba Beach ±170 km Travel time: ±4-5 hrs

Day 9  ( 25 sep) Tanzania –Iringa

Today we leave Malawi and enter Tanzania. We ascend out of the Great Rift Valley through some spectacular mountain passes, passing vast tea plantations in the highlands before arriving at our camp outside Iringa. This evening our dinner is a traditional Kihehe dinner in a Kihehe hut (local tribe) or dinner in the famous Mud Ruins restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per stable: Kisolanza Farm: www.kisolanza.com Facilities: Shared ablutions, hot showers, bar Route: Chitimba to Iringa. ±560 km Travel time: ±12-13 hrs plus border crossing Included Highlights: Dinner in a local Maasai restaurant

Border posts:                                                              Malawi: Songwe (no telephone), Open: 06h00-18h00. Tanzania: Chi’zumulu, Tel: +265 15 357 207, Open: 06h00-18h00

Tanzania

Tanzania is mountainous in the northeast where Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest freestanding mountain, is situated. To the north and west are the Great Lakes of Lake Victoria (Africa's largest lake) and Lake Tanganyika (Africa's deepest lake, known for its unique species of fish). Central Tanzania comprises a large plateau with plains and arable land. The eastern shore is hot and humid with the island of Zanzibar lying just offshore. Tanzania has a tropical type of climate. In the highlands, temperatures range between 10?C and 20?C during cold and hot seasons respectively. The rest of the country has temperatures rarely falling lower than 20?C. The hottest period extends between November and February (25?C -31?C) while the coldest period occurs between May and August (15?C -20?C).

Some useful Swahili words

Along the main highway artery that connects Dar es Salaam and Iringa, one travels through Baobab Valley. An endearing local saying goes that if you see a tree small enough to put your arms around, all your dreams and wishes will come true. Living up to its name, the valley is heavily populated by baobabs, one of the great symbols of Africa. This bizarre tree, known as the “upside down tree” is surrounded by myth and folklore, and has a multitude of uses for the local people and wildlife: the fruit is eaten; gum and fibre is made into rope, paper, and cloth; and bark and oil from the baobab seeds have medicinal properties.

Day 10  (26 sep) Mikumi

We leave Iringa today and head north to the Mikumi National Park. Mikumi is home to lion, zebra, wildebeest, impala, buffalo and elephant. Here we have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon game drive through the park. Optional Activities: Afternoon game drive in Mikumi NP.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Genesis Motel: no website available Facilities: En-Suite, bar, hot showers Route: Kisolanza to Mikumi ± 220 km Travel time: ± 5-6 hours

Day 11 (27 sep) Dar es Salaam

Our journey today brings us out of the cool highland region to the humid Indian ocean coastal city of Dar es Salaam. Meaning ‘house of peace’ in Arabic, Dar es Salaam is the economic and trade capital of Tanzania, but inland Dodoma remains the official capital city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per Room: Kipepeo Camp: www.kipepeocamp.com Facilities: En-Suite, hot showers, bar Route: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam ±370 km Travel time: ± 4-5 hrs

Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam (Arabic translation: “house of peace”), formerly Mzizima, is the largest city in Tanzania. With a population estimated around 2 500 000, it is also the country’s richest city and an important economic centre. Though Dar es Salaam lost its official status as capital city to Dodoma in the mid-1970s, it remains the centre of the permanent central government and continues to serve as the capital for the surrounding Dar es Salaam Region. In 1859, Albert Roscher of Hamburg became the first European to land in Mzizima (“healthy town”). In 1866 Sultan Seyyid Majid of Zanzibar gave it its present name. Dar es Salaam fell into decline after Majid’s death in 1870 but was revived in 1887, when the German East Africa Company established a station there. The town’s growth was facilitated by its role as the administrative and commercial centre of German East Africa and industrial expansion resulting from the construction of the Central Railway Line in the early 1900s. Being situated so close to the equator and the warm Indian ocean, the city experiences generally tropical climatic conditions, typified by hot and humid weather throughout much of the year. Annual rainfall is approximately 1 100 mm and in a normal year there are two distinct rainy seasons: "the long rains", which fall during April and May and "the short rains", which fall during October and November.

Day 12/13/14 (28-29-30 sep)  Zanzibar

A local ferry will take us from Dar es Salaam (where we leave the truck) to Zanzibar. We take a transfer to the northern part of the island where we will spend our time relaxing on the beach. On the 3^rd day, we head south to Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar, where we will spend the night. Here we have time exploring the historical and unique architecture. There are also spice and seafood markets to be explored. Optional Activities: Lunch & Dinner, Motorbike hire, Spice tour, Walking city tour, Swimming with Dolphins, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling etc. Please note: If you have not purchased the Activity Package you will stay at the accommodation in Dar es Salaam for the following 3 nights.

Day 12/13

Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Two per room: Amaan Bungalows:

www.ocean.co.tz/ogh/amaan-bungalows/ab-about-us/ Facilities: En-Suite, hot showers, laundry, swimming pool, shop, internet Route: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by Ferry Travel time: ±2-3 hrs

Day 14

Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Two per room: – Ocean View Hotel: www.ocean.co.tz/ogh/zov/zov-accommodation Facilities: En-Suite, hot showers, bar, laundry, internet, pool, shop Route: Nungwi Beach to Stone town ± 60-70 km Travel time: ±2 hrs Activity Package (Day 12-14): Zanzibar Excursion

Zanzibar

You do not need to take your whole backpack; you can leave this locked in the truck in Dar es Salaam as one of the guides normally remain behind. A day pack is enough. Once on the island you will be met by a local tour operator who will make your other arrangements for spice tours, snorkelling and other optional activities.

Appropriate Clothing

Islam is Zanzibar’s dominant religion and appropriate clothing should be worn in Stone Town. Beachwear should only be worn on the beach and women are advised to wear a t-shirt and knee-length shorts or a skirt in the town. It is not appropriate to show the arms above the elbow or legs above the knee. Shoulders should remain covered and revealing necklines are not acceptable. Men’s clothing is less restrictive and a t-shirt and pair of shorts are fine. On the beach or in the resort there are no dress restrictions other than the normal ones in pool/public areas.

Religious Holidays

If you are visiting Zanzibar in the month of fasting (Ramadan) please speak to your local guide about the customs during this time. Normally eating during the sunlight hours is not allowed and some locals will make sure that you are aware of this (sometimes very loudly if you are seen). Most shops and restaurants are closed during this period, but it is acceptable (as a foreigner) to eat at the hotel or resort. The guide will tell you what is appropriate and when.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of the United Republic of Tanzania. It comprises the Zanzibar Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, 25–50 kilometres off the coast of the mainland and consists of a number of small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, informally referred to as Zanzibar) and Pemba. Zanzibar was once a separate state with a long trading history within the Arab world; it united with Tanganyika to form Tanzania in 1964 and still enjoys a high degree of autonomy within the union. The capital of Zanzibar, located on the island of Unguja, is Zanzibar City and its historic centre, known as Stone Town, is a World Heritage Site. Zanzibar’s main industries are spices, raffia and tourism. Zanzibar is also the home of the extremely endangered Red Colobus Monkey. The word “Zanzibar” probably derives from the Persian, Zangi-bar (“coast of the blacks”). However, the name could also have been derived from the Arabic Zayn Z’al Barr (“fair is this land”). “Zanzibar” often refers especially to Unguja Island and is sometimes referred to as the “Spice Islands,” though this term is more commonly associated with the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. Some trivia: Zanzibar was the first region in Africa to introduce colour television, in 1973. The current TV-station is called TvZ. The first television service in mainland Tanzania was not introduced until some twenty years later. The musician Farrokh Bulsara (a.k.a Freddie Mercury) of Queen was born in Unguja, Zanzibar on September 5, 1946 to Indian-Parsi parents, who were employed by the British colonial administration. There is a restaurant named ‘Mercury’s’ on the beachfront of Stone Town. In September 2006, a radical Islamic group on the archipelago, Uamsho, forced organizers to abandon plans to mark his 60th birthday, saying he violated Islam with his openly gay lifestyle. Zanzibar criminalized homosexualityin 2004 but despite this it remains a popular resort destination for the South African gay community.

Day 15  (1 oct) Lushoto

Today we leave Zanzibar and catch a ferry back to Dar es Salaam and return to our truck. We continue on to Lushoto, the major town and district centre, albeit small, in the Usambara Mountains, halfway between the coast and the parks. The popular pot plant Saintpaulia has its only wild occurrences in Tanzania, and particularly in the Usambara Mountains.

Day 16 (2 oct) Arusha

The city of Arusha is surrounded by some of Africa’s most famous landscapes and national parks. Situated below Mount Meru on the eastern edge of the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley, the city is close to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro and The Arusha National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Ndoro Lodge: www.ndorolodge.com Facilities: En-Suite, hot showers, bar, shop Route: Lushoto to Arusha ±515 km Travel Time: ± 7-8 hours

Day 17/18/19 3-4-5-oct) Serengeti and Ngorongoro Excursion

These 4 days are set aside for the 3-night camping excursion into the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. This area has one of the most densely inhabited large animal populations in Africa. The Serengeti excursion is in open topped 4x4 safari vehicles in order to tackle the challenging side roads in the parks. For those not going to the parks, take this chance to absorb some of the fascinating local culture. Optional Activities for those not doing the Serengeti Excursion: Various Serengeti & Ngorongoro Excursion packages, Lake Manyara game drives, day hiking & village tours and many more various day trips.

Meals:                                                                            Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:                                                       Day 17: Camp: Seronera Campsite http://www.tanzaniaparks.com/serengeti.html Day 18: Camp: Seronera Campsite http://www.tanzaniaparks.com/serengeti.html Day 19: Camp: Simba Campsite http://www.tanzaniaparks.com/serengeti.html or return to Arusha.

Facilities: Water not drinkable, shared ablutions, cold showers. Route: Arusha to Serengeti ± 250 km Travel time: ± 3-4 hours

What you should take along:

• Daypack with one change of clothes
• Binoculars, cameras & film
• Some warm clothes, as it is always cold on the rim of the crater
• Lots of insect repellent
• A few dollars (small notes) for tips, curios etc
• Snacks, cold drinks, cigarettes etc. for the excursion
• Sleeping bag

For those not going on the excursion:

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is most famous for the largest and longest overland migration in the world. This migration is one of the ten natural travel wonders of the world. Around October, nearly 2 million herbivores travel from the northern hills toward the southern plains, crossing the Mara River, in pursuit of the rains. In April, they then return to the north through the west, once again crossing the Mara River. This phenomenon is sometimes called the Circular Migration. Over 250 000 wildebeest alone will die along the journey from Tanzania to Masai Mara Reserve in upper Kenya, a total of 800 km. Death is often caused by injury, exhaustion, or predation. Approximately 70 larger mammal and some 500 avifauna species are found there. This high diversity in terms of species is a function of diverse habitats ranging from riverine forests, swamps, kopjes, grasslands and woodlands. Blue Wildebeests, gazelles, zebras and buffalos are some of the commonly found large mammals in the region. The Ngorongoro area is part of the Serengeti ecosystem, and to the north-west it adjoins the Serengeti NP and is contiguous with the southern Serengeti plains. These plains also extend to the north into the unprotected Loliondo division and are kept open to wildlife through transhuman pastoralism practiced by Masai. The south and west of the area are volcanic highlands and the southern and eastern boundaries are approximately defined by the rim of the Great Rift Valley wall, which also prevents animal migration in these directions.

Day 20  (6 oct) Arusha

Today the group meets up again and we have the chance to exchange stories of the various adventures that we participated in over the past few days. In the afternoon we visit the local Masai Mara Museum and Snake Park in Arusha. Optional Activities: camel ride to local Masaai village.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Ndoro Lodge: www.ndorolodge.com Facilities: En-Suite, hot showers, bar, shop Route: Serengeti to Arusha ± 250 km Travel time: ± 3-4 hours Activity package: Masai Mara Museum

Arusha

Arusha is surrounded by some of Africa's most famous landscapes and national parks. Beautifully situated below Mount Meru on the eastern edge of the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley, the city has a temperate climate due to its position on the slopes of Mount Meru. It is close to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as having its own Arusha National Park on Mount Meru. The primary industry of the region is agriculture, with large vegetable and flower producers sending high-quality produce to Europe. Small-scale agriculture was badly affected by the coffee crisis of recent years and is now largely subsistence farming. Arusha has several factories including a brewery, tyre and fibreboard plant, and a large pharmaceuticals maker.

Day 21 (7 oct) Kenya – Nairobi

After crossing the border into Kenya we continue to travel towards Nairobi. Usually we end the day a group meal out at one of Nairobi’s excellent restaurants. Optional Activities: Dinner out.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Sentrim Boulevard Hotel Route: Arusha to Nairobi ±295 km Travel time: ±6-7 hrs plus border crossing

Border posts: Tanzania: Namanga, no telephone number, Open: 24hrs Kenya: Namanga, Tel: +254 455 32002, Open: 24 hrs

Nairobi

Nairobi is the capital and largest city in Kenya. The name "Nairobi" comes from the Masai phrase Enkare Nyirobi, which translates to "the place of cool waters". However, it is popularly known as the "Green City in the Sun" and is surrounded by several expanding villa suburbs. Founded in 1899 as a simple rail depot on the railway linking Mombasa to Uganda, the town quickly grew to become the capital of British East Africa in 1907 and eventually the capital of a free Kenyan republic in 1963. During Kenya's colonial period, the city became a center for the colony's coffee, tea and sisal industry. Nairobi is the most populated city in East Africa, with a current estimated population of about 3 million. Nairobi is now one of the most prominent cities in Africa politically and financially. Home to many companies and organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme and the UN Office in Africa, Nairobi is a hub for business and culture. The Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE) is one of the largest in Africa, ranked fourth in terms of trading volume and capable of making 10 million trades a day. The Globalization and World Cities Study Group and Network (GaWC) defines Nairobi as a prominent social centre.

Day 22 (8 oct) Masai Mara National Reserve

We leave the capital and travel to the Masai Mara National Reserve. Today the tour enters this huge area of spectacular game viewing to photograph some of Africa’s most abundant wildlife. Famous for the annual migration of around 1.5 million wildebeest, the Masai Mara is also home to many other animals, including lions. Cultural interaction with Kenya’s native Masaai people completes our experience. *The Masai Mara Reserve excursion & game drive will be operated in safari type vehicles, please ensure that you pack a small overnight bag to take into the Mara. You will need your towel, sleeping bag as well as clothes, toiletries and your camping essentials.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Permanent tent: Masai Mara Camp: www.keniatours.com Facilities: Hot showers Route: Nairobi to Masai Mara ±240km Travel time: ±6-7 hrs Activity Package: Kenyan Parks Highlights Excursion

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve covers some 1 530 square km and is bounded by the Serengeti Park to the south, the Siria escarpment to the west and Masai pastoral ranches to the north, east and west. The terrain of the reserve is primarily open savannah grassland with seasonal riverlets. Wildebeest, zebra and Thomson's gazelle migrate into and occupy the Mara reserve from the Serengeti plains to the south and Loita plains in the pastoral ranches to the north-east, from July to October or later. The Great Migration is one of the most impressive natural events worldwide, involving some 1.5 million wildebeests, 360 000 Thomson's gazelles and 191 000 zebras. These numerous migrants are followed along their annual, circular route by a block of hungry predators, most notably lions and hyena.All members of the ‘Big 5’ are found in the Masai Mara, although the population of black rhinoceros is severely threatened, with a population of only 37 recorded in 2000. Hippopotami are found in large groups in the Masai Mara and Talek rivers. Cheetah is also found, although their numbers are threatened. Additionally, over 450 species of birdlife have been identified in the park, including vultures, marabou storks, secretary birds, hornbills, crowned cranes, ostriches, long-crested eagles and African pygmy-falcons.

Day 23 (9 oct) Lake Naivasha

After an early morning game drive in the Mara, we depart towards Lake Naivasha for a relaxing day on the lakeshore. You can go hiking in the area and activities include game and bird watching. One of the more popular optional activities is to go game viewing from a bicycle. An alternative way to spend your afternoon is to take high tea at Elsamere, the former home of Joy Adamsson, best known for her autobiographical novel, Born Free. Optional Activities: Cycle hire, High Tea at Elsamere.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two Per Room: Fish Eagle Camp Facilities: Hot showers, bar, laundry, swimming pool Route: Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha ±245 km Travel time: ±6-7 hrs

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake forming part of the Great Rift Valley and lays North West of Nairobi. The name derives from the local Maasai name Nai'posha, meaning "rough water" because of the sudden storms which can arise. The lake has a surface area of 139 square km and is surrounded by a swamp which covers an area of 64 square km, but this can vary depending on rainfall. The lake has an average depth of 6 m with the deepest area being at Crescent Island, at a maximum depth of 30 m. The lake is home to a variety of wildlife; over 400 different species of bird have been reported. There is also sizeable population of hippos in the lake. Between 1937 and 1950 the lake was used as a landing place for water planes on the Imperial Airways passenger and mail route from Southampton in Britain to South Africa. It linked Kisimu and Nairobi. Joy Adamson, author of Born Free, lived on the shores of the lake in the mid-1960s. There is the option to visit her residence for high tea and have a taste of a colonial time gone by.

Day 24  (10 oct)  Lake Nakuru

Today we will travel north to Lake Nakuru where we will spend the afternoon game driving. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968. White rhino inhabit the transitional savannah area surrounding the lake, with excellent photographic opportunities.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park, established in 1961, is named after the alkaline lake that it encircles. Nakuru means ‘dry or dusty place’ in the Masai language. Although it was initially established as a bird sanctuary, it is now home to a surprisingly large number of animal species, including the Big Four – lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo but sadly there are no elephants in the park. Lake Nakuru is famous for the vast flocks of flamingoes that line its shores, attracted by the abundance of algae. It is also a sanctuary for black and white rhino and has recently been extended to protect these endangered animals.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell's Gate National Park lies to the south of Lake Naivasha and is mainly comprised of a savannah ecosystem which harbors a wide variety of wildlife. There are over 100 species of birds in the park including vultures, Verreaux's Eagles, Augur Buzzards and swifts. African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson's gazelle and baboons are also common. The park is also home to klipspringer antelope and Chanler's mountain reedbuck.

Day 25 (11 oct) Lake Nakuru -Kampala

Leaving Lake Nakuru very early, we head towards Uganda, briefly stopping for a photo at the equator. Later we arrive in Uganda’s capital and largest city, Kampala.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two Per Room: Silversprings Hotel: www.silverspringshotelug.com Facilities: Hot showers, bar, swimming pool, shop Route: Lake Nakuru to Kampala ±490 km Travel time: (Long day) ±12 -14 hrs plus border crossing

Border posts: Kenya: Busia 09256 454 3482 Uganda: Malaba (no telephone numbers)

Kampala

Before British colonials arrived in Uganda, the Buganda King, Kabaka, had chosen the area that was to become Kampala as one of his favorite hunting grounds. This was made up of numerous rolling hills and lush wetlands, an ideal breeding ground for various antelopes -particularly impala. When the British arrived they called the area the “Hills of the Impala”, which eventually came to be called Kampala. The city grew up around a fort constructed by Frederick Lugard in 1890 for the British East Africa Company. In 1962 Kampala replaced Entebbe as the national capital. Much of the city was destroyed after the 1979 overthrow of Idi Amin’s dictatorship and the subsequent civil war, and is now being rebuilt

Day 26 (12 oct) Kampala / Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Although officially this day is set aside for everyone to explore Kampala, most people take an optional day trip to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary of Ngamba Island. This non-profit eco-friendly project was set up in 1998 to care for orphaned chimpanzees. Optional Activities: Ngamba Chimpanzee Excursion, Kampala Markets, Dinner Out.

Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary

The sanctuary is a non-profit organization which is co-ordinated and managed by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservation Trust. CSWCT is a partnership with six organizations committed to the welfare and conservation of wildlife. The sanctuary was set up because every year in Africa, approximately 5 000 chimpanzees are killed by poachers for the bush meat trade. As a by product of this illegal practice, dozens of infant chimpanzees are taken alive from the forest, bound for the pet trade throughout Africa and the rest of the world. The island is set up as an eco-friendly project with compost toilets, rainwater collection, proper waste management practices and solar energy for electricity and hot water.

Day 27 (13 oct) Kampala -Lake Bunyoni

Lake Bunyonyi is a small but attractive lake with steep sides and abundant birdlife. Ringed by mountains, the lake is best known for its dense Otter population and stunning scenery. We make use of this beautiful spot to relax the night before the final drive to the gorillas.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort: www.bunyonyioverland.com Facilities: Hot showers, bar, laundry, internet, shop Route: Kampala to Lake Bunyoni ±435km Travel time: ±12hrs

Lake Bunyoni

Lake Bunyonyi ("Place of many little birds") lies on the border of Rwanda. It is 25 km long and 7 km wide, covering an area of 61 square km. The depth of the lake is rumored to vary between 44 m and 900 m, which if true would make the lake the second deepest in Africa. It is one of the few lakes in the region that is free of bilharzia and safe for swimming. Its 29 islands are concentrated in the central part. These islands have few settlements, mostly tourist facilities, schools and missions.

Day 28/29 (14-15 oct) Gorillas (Lake Bunyoni)

The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured.

As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where we actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits. Should we not obtain permits to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC.

On your free day in Bunyoni you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.

Optional activities: Mountain biking, nature walk, hiking

Day 28

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort: www.bunyonyioverland.com Facilities: Hot showers, bar, laundry, internet, shop

Day 29

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort: www.bunyonyioverland.com Facilities: Hot showers, bar, laundry, internet, shop Route: Starting point of the Gorilla Trek to Lake Bunyoni ±125 km Travel Time: ±3-4 hrs

Please note: Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other day are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour.

Day 30/31 (16- 17 oct) Queen Elizabeth National Park

Leaving Lake Bunyoni, we venture to the Queen Elizabeth National Park, where we will spend the next 2 nights. Many game species can be found in this wetland park as well as the (elsewhere elusive) giant forest hog and the legendary tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Sector. We will enjoy an included 4x4 game drive on day 10 through the NP. Optional Activities: Kasinga Channel Sunset Cruise, Chimpanzee trekking at Lake George

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Two per room: Hippo Hill: www.hippohilllodge.com Facilities: Hot showers, bar Route: Lake Bunyoni to Queen Elizabeth NP ±310 km Travel time: ±5-6 hrs Activity Package: 4x4 game drive

Queen Elizabeth National Park

The Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda's most-visited game reserve. It lies in the west of the nation and occupies 5 000 square km from Lake George to Lake Edward around the Kazinga Channel connecting them. The park is named after Queen Elizabeth II and was established in 1954. It is known for its abundant wildlife, although many animals were killed by poachers and in the Uganda-Tanzania War. Now protected, many species have recovered, including hippopotamus, elephant, leopard, lion and chimpanzees; and it is now home to 95 species of mammal and over 500 species of birds. The park is also famous for its volcanic features, comprising volcanic cones and deep craters, many with crater lakes such as Lake Katwe, from which salt is extracted. Due to the volcanic craters, grassy plains and tropical forest, it has one of the highest biodiversity ratings in the world.

Day 32/33 (18-19 oct) Jinja

Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and more famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean. Optional Activities: White Water Rafting.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Day 11 only), Dinner Accommodation: Permanent Tent: Eden Rock Resort : www.edenrocknile.com Facilities: Hot showers, internet, swimming pool Route: Queen Elizabeth NP to Jinja ±430 km Travel time: ±8-9 hrs

Jinja

Jinja was formerly a fishing village that benefited from being on long-distance trade routes. The city was founded in 1901 by the British, as an administrative centre for the Provincial Government Headquarters for Busoga region. This was around the time that Lake Victoria’s importance in transport rose due to the Uganda Railway linking Kisumu, a Kenyan town on the lake, with Mombasa on the Indian Ocean, 1 400 km away. Cotton-packing, nearby sugar estates and railway access all enabled Jinja to grow in size. In 1906 a street pattern was laid out and Indian traders moved in from around 1910.

Jinja once had a large East Indian community until they were expelled from Uganda by Idi Amin in 1971 and 1972. Much of Jinja’s architecture is Indian-influenced, although the detailed shop-fronts and buildings were poorly maintained after the Indians left. Local industrial concerns also collapsed. Many of the East Indians who are now returning to Uganda are choosing to set up businesses again.

Day 34 (20 oct) Kenya -Eldoret

Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level.

Border posts: Kenya: Busia 09256 454 3482 Uganda: Malaba (no telephone numbers)

Eldoret

Eldoret, strangely, is a Kenyan town founded by Afrikaners in 1910. The town was originally known as 64 or “Sisibo” by the locals, because it was established at the 64th mile post on the wagon route from Londiani. In 1908, the Eldoret area had been settled by Afrikaans-speaking South Africans who "trekked" there from Nakuru after a journey from South Africa by sea and by rail from Mombasa. Other European and Asian settlers and traders began arriving shortly afterwards. When the governor decided to establish an administrative centre the town was officially named Eldoret in 1912. Becoming an administrative centre caused an enormous increase in trade within the prospective city. A bank and several shops were built. Eldoret is the hometown of numerous legendary Kenyan runners, the most renowned of whom is Kipchoge Keino. The high altitude is an ideal training ground for many middle and long distance athletes. The runners from Eldoret have contributed significantly to the economy of Eldoret town from their winnings in races all over the world.

Day 35 (21 oct) Nairobi

Returning to Nairobi, the largest city in the East Africa region, there’s an optional dinner, where we can swap stories and exchange contact details. Optional Activities: Meal out in Nairobi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Own Arrangements / Post Accommodation can be booked through Nomad. Route: Eldoret to Nairobi ±350 km Travel time: ±6-7 hrs

NB: The itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice in order to accommodate the best possible viewing of the Gorillas. The Permit price to visit the Gorillas can also change without notice.

Tour Ends

The tour ends at the Sentrim Boulevard Hotel. We suggest you book accommodation here for this evening through your travel agent or Nomad.

MEALS ON TOUR

Breakfast: As breakfast is served very early in the morning (if there is driving or activities to be done) it is a simple but filling breakfast: Tea and coffee, breads and spreads, cereals, yoghurts, fruits and on occasion, when there is time for a later breakfast, guides will serve a hot breakfast of scrambled eggs, porridge, bacon or beans.

Lunch: Lunch is generally served at a picnic spot next to the road en route to a destination. As the guides only have approximately 45 minutes to get everyone off the truck, prepare lunch and then get everyone back on the truck again, lunches consist of sandwiches and salads (rice salad, pasta salad, tuna salad and green salad) which are quick and easy to prepare but which are quite filling. They do have meal plans which they should stick to, to ensure that there is variety on a day to day basis.

Dinner: This is when the guides get time to prepare a delicious meal and they focus on a substantial protein, vegetable and carbohydrate dinner. We serve traditional cuisine consisting of braais (BBQ), potjie (stew), bobotie (mince), spaghetti and fish and chicken dishes.

All meals (on both accommodated and camping tours) that are included as per the dossier are prepared at the full service adventure truck. This is a unique adventure in itself where you get to dine under the stars with your new found friends and experience the real sights and sounds of Africa!

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