East Africa, home to the rolling plains of the Serengeti, the mystic peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, the endangered mountain gorillas of Rwanda and the exotic shores of the Spice Island of Zanzibar. Abundant wildlife and breath-taking natural beauty bless this, the exotic heart of Africa.
There are countless reasons to visit East Africa, but none more compelling than the Great Wildebeest migration across the plains of the Serengeti. The quintessential African safari adventure and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, the migration has long been heralded as one of the planet’s most amazing and awe-inspiring wildlife experiences. The fact that it is also fairly easily accessible makes it a must for any visitor to the region.
This annual migration of a 2 million-strong herd of Wildebeest and other grazing herbivores travels across the magical East African landscape from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania through the Grumeti and Mara River and into the greener plains of the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. In their search for good grazing land the herd will travel thousands of gruelling kilometres, pursued by a host of hungry predators. This naturally leads to some incredibly exciting game viewing, and offers visitors the chance to experience the wonders of nature on a truly spectacular scale.
Mobile tented safari camps follow the herd as it begins its great trek northwards in May, continuing throughout the dry months as it moves up towards Kenya. This ensures that whenever you decide to visit, you will always be right in the heart of the action, witnessing the massive herd up close. The herd itself is made up primarily of about 1,5 million Wildebeest, accompanied by about 350 000 Thomson’s gazelle, 200 000 zebra and about 12 000 eland. And of course, wherever you find such a massive gathering of herbivores, predators won’t be far behind. Lions, hyenas, leopards and cheetahs among others follow the herd closely, spoiled for choice as they pick off the stragglers.
Of course, there’s much more to East Africa than just the wonders of the Great Wildebeest migration. Once you’ve experienced the safari of a lifetime, you may wish to explore further. This region offers the visitor a variety of uniquely African experiences, all within relatively close proximity.
Who can resist the allure of Africa’s majestic Mount Kilimanjaro? Located in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro National Park, this is the tallest peak in Africa and the largest free-standing mountain in the world. Countless travellers from around the globe have been drawn to its snow-covered peak over the years. With six routes of varying difficulty leading to the summit, it’s a climb that is within the reach of most travellers and rewards the daring with the most incredible views across the African plains.
Or, if you prefer a less strenuous way to experience some amazing views, why not treat yourself to a trip in a hot air balloon? Imagine the uninterrupted views of the African wildlife and landscape as you sail through the clouds across the vast African skies. Several East African lodges offer hot air ballooning as a great addition to your safari, what better way to get a truly unique perspective on this magical landscape? Of course, if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the region also offers fantastic mountain-biking and horse riding trails. For travellers who want to explore the indigenous cultures of the region, a visit to the Maasai people of Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania is a must. Visits to Maasai villages can be arranged and visitors can experience the Maasai culture, unchanged for centuries, first hand.
Another amazing option, unique to East Africa, is a trip to visit the magnificent mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure as you hike the misty mountain trails to their natural habitat and come face to face with these highly endangered creatures.
Just off the coast of East Africa, in the deep, blue waters of the Indian Ocean, lies the exotic island of Zanzibar, another must-see destination on your trip. Rich in cultural history and overflowing with natural beauty, Zanzibar offers pristine white beaches, world-class water sports and deep sea fishing to captivate the weary traveller. It’s the perfect destination to unwind after your safari experience.
With regular flights available into Dar Es Salaam, Nairobi or Kilimanjaro, East Africa is a jewel waiting to be explored. From the spectacle of the Great Wildebeest migration to the exotic allure of Zanzibar, you’ll experience the journey of a lifetime in this, the beating heart of Africa.