Author: Michael

The Migration Returns to the Plains

AFRICAN WILDLIFE

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Posted on by Michael

The rains and hence the Great Migration have finally arrived to the famous Southern and Eastern Serengeti Plains. However, the first 3 weeks of December were quite dry (borderline drought conditions). All of us here at Africa Dream Safaris were beginning to worry. Is it going to be another unusually dry winter/green season in the Serengeti? Will the calving be delayed? What will the migration do…perhaps head back to the Northern and Western Woodlands as the Southern and Eastern Plains are too dry? Do we need to start moving campsites, accommodations, itineraries?

Well…it seems all that worrying was a bit premature. On December 19th and 20th, large herds of wildebeest were finally seen streaming out of the woodlands heading south for the plains. Perhaps they somehow sensed the rain coming as by December 23rd rain was steadily falling throughout the Serengeti Ecosystem. Though only light showers had fallen in most areas, it was just enough moisture to cause an explosion of life in the dormant volcanic soils. By December 25th, green shoots had sprouted in most areas of the plains (especially the areas that were burned in the prior dry season) and the great legions of migratory wildebeest, zebra, eland and gazelle were quick to follow.

The main concentrations of wildebeest and zebra are currently concentrated in two main herds withthe biggest herd in the Triangle (south of Naabi Hill) and asecond large herd at the Gol Kopjes (east of Naabi Hill). There are also scattered wildebeest and zebra herds from Ndutu to Kusini. The gazelles have separated as they regularly do and are back home on their normal range on the extreme eastern plains spread from Barafu Kopjes to Lemuta Hill (see ADS Map).

Besides the Migration, sightings remain good for the big cats. Leopards are being regularly spotted in the Seronera Valley of the Central Serengeti. One of our guests spotted a large male leopard within 12 minutes of landing at the Seronera Airstrip. Cheetah sightings are increasing at the Gol Kopjes and Barafu Kopjes now that their main food source is located there. Also, the whole of the Ndutu area continues to offer phenomenal cheetah viewing. Even in early December when it was quite dry at Ndutu, cheetahs were regularly being spotted. The large lion prides of the Central Serengeti are now being seen in the southern and eastern sections of their territories as they follow the herds to the edges of their ranges. Sightings from recent returning guests and driver-guides indicate the Simba Kopjes, Maasai Kopjes and Sametu Kopjes areas as having largest lion pride activity. Our adopted lion pride (the Gol Kopjes pride) still has not been seen yet this December though we have high hopes it will shortly be found on the 2nd kopje at Gol as it has in the last several green seasons.

One of our guests had a rather exhilarating experience in the Ngorongoro Crater when they came across the Tokitok Lion Pride feeding on a recently killed buffalo. The herd of buffalo was none to pleased to see this famous lion pride munching away on one of their fallen comrades. As their numbers swelled, they charged and the lions temporarily fled to safety and cover of the vehicle. Our guests now found themselves in between an agitated pride of lions and an even angrier herd of buffalo. Needless to say the driver-guide made a quick get away but not before the guests could snap off a couple pictures…

Ngorongoro Crater 1 - December 2010
Ngorongoro Crater 1 – December 2010

Ngorongoro Crater 2 - December 2010
Ngorongoro Crater 2 – December 2010

Ngorongoro Crater 3 - December 2010
Ngorongoro Crater 3 – December 2010

Ngorongoro Crater 4 - December 2010
Ngorongoro Crater 4 – December 2010

Ngorongoro Crater 5 - December 2010
Ngorongoro Crater 5 – December 2010

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Quote of the Week: Essie and Gary Casper

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Posted on by Michael

I really do not know where to start. Our exciting safari started from the moment we stepped off the small plane at the “Seronera Air strip”. We were met by our drive and guide who showed us the way to our magic carpet. Within ten minutes of leaving the air strip, our guide pointed out a leopard pulling an antelope into a tree (see figure 7157). At that point I had not taken out the cameras yet. So the only pictures I took were after the leopard had the kill up in the tree. After leaving the leopard to rest and eat its lunch, we rode about five miles further and our guide point out a young male lion finishing off a wildebeest, with seven to eight hyenas in waiting (see figure 7471). It is very hard to kick out three or four of our best photos. One of the photos I like best really does not show much action, but figure 7832 was taken of an elephant in the wild. However, I know there was not a bridge within miles of us, but yet the sign was there! The picture of the Serengeti says it all. In figure 7847, you see elephants, wildebeest, zebra, and baboons.

 

My wife and I were very pleased with the food and service at each of the places that we spent the evening. Really it was beyond our expectations! Again our driver and guide was outstanding. Our guide proved the old saying about eating carrots, he must have eaten six to seven each day when he was young. Our guide was able to point out game that I had a hard time seeing through the camera zoom lens. Our only regret was that we did not do this sooner. We were within six feet of wild elephants. No zoo bars or ditches between us and them. At no time did we feel that we were in any danger, even when a male baboon came into the tent at Mbuzi Mawe Tented Lodge. I just shouted at him and he departed the same way he came in. This was also true when a young male lion walked right up to our land cruiser and laid down in the shade behind the cruiser.

We would recommend anyone who is thinking about doing such a trip to use your company.

Essie and Gary Casper
November 2010

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Quote of the Week: Pat and Bob Bilovsky; Colleen Roman – California

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Posted on by Michael

We would like to thank you for the support, care, and planning that you provided us on our recent (October 20-November 2) Safari. We had a fantastic journey that even surpassed our expectations. Every step along the way we were supported by your wonderful staff. The preparation notebook we received at home was extremely helpful in answering many of our questions and helping us to make our trip easier while we were in Tanzania. The discussions with our ADS rep were invaluable and enabled her to set up a custom safari that met our needs, adapted to the season we were traveling, and provide a maximum opportunity to observe the rich wildlife, customs, and culture of Tanzania.

From the moment we landed at Mt. Kilimanjaro Airport to the last day we were in Tanzania, we were supported by Africa Dream Safaris Staff. Upon arrival we were met and assisted with all of our entry requirements. We were met by staff (Selma), driven to our hotel, given a cell phone to use during the trip if we had any concerns (we didn’t need it). Selma prepared us for the next morning when we would be picked up, taken to the Arusha airport,and we would fly to the Northern Serengeti. The next morning, Selma was at the hotel to take us to the Arusha airport, check in our luggage, and make sure everything went well with our flight to Kogatende. Upon landing at Kogatende, we were met by our Guide for the next 9 days. Our Guide was very knowledgeable, caring, thoughtful of our concerns, funny, and very interested in us getting a full safari experience. 5 minutes out of Kogatende, on our first game drive we saw elephants. That day and each day after were magical. On that first day we saw the Wildebeest crossing the Mara, an unbelievable sight, we saw a cheetah with her two cubs, two black rhino, zebras, giraffes, impalas, hippos, cape buffalo, many species of the beautiful birds and the beautiful Tanzania landscape. It was an incredible day, made even more special by the insight our Guide was providing us.

Our accommodations on the trip were always excellent. We stayed in two tent camps and hotels. The staffs at all of our accommodations could not do enough for us and always cared about our comfort and happiness. The food was excellent, the beds very comfortable, and we always felt safe, even with lions roaring outside our lodgings at 3am! Our Guide took us to a fairly remote Maasi Village, on a night safari, on two walking safaris, on a visit to a medical facility in Karatu, and on many game drives. He wanted us to get a full exposure to the beauty of his country. He had unbelievable eyesight and could see animals from before any of us could. The vehicle, our Guide, and his expertise were at our disposal. Each night we worked out the plan for the next day- what time we would leave, would we have picnic breakfast, lunch etc. It was all very easy and all very enjoyable.

We would certainly highly recommend your company. There are many safari companies to choose from and I’m sure many of them are very good and reliable. We were happy we chose your company. We really appreciated the genuine attention to detail and concern for us having the best experience possible that was demonstrated by the whole Africa Dream Safaris staff. We thank you, once again, for providing us with a trip of a lifetime.

Pat and Bob Bilovsky; Colleen Roman – California
Oct/Nov 2010

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Quote of the Week: Pam North, Renee North and Amie Jew

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We feel so very fortunate to have chosen Africa Dream Safaris as our travel company. From the moment we got off the plane till we left we were taken care of.

In Arusha, we chose to spend an extra day acclimating to the time change and relaxing before our adventure began. We wouldn’t have thought of doing so if our ADS Agent had not suggested it. It was a much needed respite from the long flight over. Our accommodations were absolutely perfect. The Mountain Village Lodge provided a tranquil atmosphere and allowed us to get a good nights rest before heading out into the Serengeti.

I can’t say enough about how great our Guide was to us. So knowledgeable. So patient. So Kind. So friendly. So accommodating. There was not one request he would not fulfill for us. If we wanted to spend more time at one place we would (we spent three hours one day watching a Leopard lay next to her kill and hoping she would take it up into the tree – which she didn’t but we spent three hours watching her). Our Guide has great respect for Africa and an integrity that you did not see in other drivers with other safari companies. We appreciated his character and felt very fortunate to have him with us. He showed us a side of Africa we probably would have missed if he had not been with us.

Our accommodations were everything we hoped they would be and something for everyone. We did a mix of lodges and tents and that was perfect for us (once again, at the suggestion of our agent). One night a Cape Buffalo came next to our tent while we were sleeping. You could hear it pulling the grass from the dirt, chewing, swallowing and then breathing heavily. I felt like I was living a moment from Jurassic Park. My mother had never traveled outside the USA before so we were concerned the accommodations might be too rustic for her. Not so. She absolutely enjoyed each place we stayed and raved about how nice everything was. (If my mom can ʻdoʼ Africa then everyone can. Trust me on this one!)

Being in Africa and seeing all the other safari tour companies made us appreciate Africa Dream Safaris. We were on no time table – like other companies. We were our own private vehicle and didn’t have to jockey for seating. We could go where we wanted, when we wanted and how we wanted (you have no idea how much of a comfort this is till you are in Africa.). There is a respect Africa Dream Safaris has for the land, the people and the environment you did not see with other travel companies.

Regarding the photos: The first – we came across these lion cubs (three of them) in a tree. Their mother is up higher in the tree. This cub seemed to be quite content to stay in the ‘V’ of the tree. So cute. I even got video of them trying to navigate the branches. Our Guide said they were about 3-6 months old. The 2nd photo – and you might have to really look is of two leopards – one in the tree, the other down on the ground with an elephant in the background. Our Guide said it was very unusual to see two leopards together. We saw, in total, 7 Leopards on our safari. The third – self explanatory…a mother and her elephant.

I could go on and on about how wonderful Africa Dream Safaris was to us but you’ll know exactly what I am talking about when you travel with ADS and experience first hand the fabulous service, attention to detail and care they put in to making your journey a once-in-a-lifetime memorable adventure.

Pam North, Renee North and Amie Jew
November 2010

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Quote of the Week: Bruce and Fay Hatton

Romantic Getaways

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AMAZING is all I can say, this was definitely a trip of a lifetime, Bruce and I have talked about going to Africa for over 30 years, but deep down we thought it was only a dream. So 18 months ago I decided “A Trip of a Lifetime” would be the perfect gift to celebrate my husband’s retirement and our 30th Wedding Anniversary.

After reading many guide books and web sites and reviewing all our options, our daughter found the web site for “Private Safaris” with Africa Dream Safaris; It was exactly what I was looking for.

The trip was well beyond all expectations and more than we could have ever imagined. ADS made sure every aspect of our safari was taken care of. From the very first email that was sent to ADS 18 months ago until the evening we boarded the flight home ADS looked after every small detail including having a pillow in the jeep because I have a bad back.

The entire ADS staff is first rate, thank you to our amazing Rep who answered all my endless questions and managed to put all my concerns at ease, the Arusha staff who met us on the tarmac at the airport and took us to the primary school to deliver school supplies and of course to our amazing guide we had the pleasure of spending 12 incredible days with. He was so knowledgeable of the country, animals, flora, etc and had the unbelievable ability to spot animals with the naked eye when we couldn’t see them with binoculars. He had a great sense of humour, we shared alot of laughs. The lodges and the food was above anything we could have imagined and it was so nice to have the vehicle to ourselves, and the ability to set our own schedule. We were out game driving when other companies were still having breakfast.

We would not hesitate to recommend ADS; we were extremely impressed with their professionalism, thoroughness and thoughtfulness of their entire staff

Asante Sana Africa Dream Safaris for making our dream come true.

Bruce and Fay Hatton
November 2010

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Quote of the Week: Alex and Dotti Reisbord

SAFARI STORIES

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Posted on by Michael

We are so glad we found Africa Dream Safaris. We’ve been home four days and we still are feeling high from our adventure. There are many things we want to share with you—many of them you already know, but some of our experiences were unique. First, the wildlife of the Serengeti was everything we expected. Were there things we didn’t see? Yes. We waited two hours at the Mara River for three thousand wildebeest to cross. They almost got their toes wet, but they didn’t go in. But, if you want guarantees go to the zoo, watch the circus, or rent a movie.

Now for the human side. ADS performed as advertised as soon as we left the plane at Kilimanjaro Airport. The VIP treatment was extraordinary and truly appreciated. On our first full day in Tanzania our guide took us Mwangaza Primary School in Arusha. Dotti led the class in singing the Jambo song. This is a very easy song to learn and it breaks a lot of ice. Here is a link to the song http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fK0wPpLryc4 . You have to change the word “Kenya” to “Tanzania”. Two Swahili phrases that we used frequently were “poli poli” (slowly, slowly) as guards led us back to our room at night and “hakuna matata”, (no problem). People remember hakuna matata from The Lion King.

Now back to our safari. We could not ask for a better guide. He was articulate, intelligent, knowledgeable, friendly and had a fabulous sense of humor. We had dinner together our last night. He took both our hands and shared how he enjoyed being our guide. When we said goodbye at the Arusha Hotel, there were tears in all three of our eyes as we hugged and said Kawaheri. He is truly a friend.

Africn Dream Safaris has used Serengeti Serena, Ngorongoro Sopa, and Tarangire River Lodge many times and we have no complaints. But, Buffalo Springs Lodge is new and we want to share our experience there. The following day after arriving we got up early and our guide drove Seketu (the local Maasai guide) and us to Seketu’s boma (village). Seketu’s brother, John, greeted us and was our host. John gave us a brief description of Maasai life—polygamy, community sharing, etc. Then Seketu invited us into his house. We were inside about 30 minutes. We talked about Maasai life. We met Seketu’s wife and six-month old son. This was one of the highlights of our safari. Bah on the wildebeests who wouldn’t cross the river.

The wildlife was all we expected. What we didn’t expect was the human contact. From the school visit in Arusha to the welcome at Buffalo Springs; to Seketu’s home to F.A.M.E.; from the market at Karatu to the friendship with our guide—we did not expect this. Asante Sana,”

Alex and Dotti Reisbord
October 2010

A cheetah staring intently at something in the distance… is it friend or foe? or dinner?

 

A family of lions gathered on a wayward tree trunk.

 

A leopard… doing exactly what leopards do best!

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Best Mara River Crossing Pictures

AFRICAN WILDLIFE

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Posted on by Michael

It’s been a record year for Mara River Crossings in the Serengeti. Even our most experienced safari guides cannot recall a time when the wildebeest have crossed so frequently. Time and time again the long columns of wildebeest have made the plunge into the Mara River both southbound and northbound with no particular rhyme or reason. Perhaps it’s the unusually heavy thundershowers we have seen this entire dry season combined with the early burning done by TANAPA. This combination has caused the migration to cross and re-cross the Mara in pursuit of the rain clouds and the smell of fresh green grass sprouting on the scorched plains. Below are a couple of our favorite Mara River crossing shots submitted by returning guests over the last couple months.

Special thanks to Shane and Heidi who submitted this spectacular safari video from their recent African safari. At about 4 minutes and 30 seconds into the video there begins some extraordinary crossing footage including two massive crocodiles taking a wildebeest. Be warned some of the shots are quite graphic!! Click here to see the video.

By Marc Zwig - September 24, 2010
By Marc Zwig – September 24, 2010
 

By Ronna DelValle - September 16, 2010
By Ronna DelValle – September 16, 2010
 

By Sue Dougherty - August 1, 2010
By Sue Dougherty – August 1, 2010
 

By Max Gottesman - September 22, 2010
By Max Gottesman – September 22, 2010
 

By Linda Johnson - October 18, 2010
By Linda Johnson – October 18, 2010

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Quote of the Week: Jan Jeffries

SAFARI STORIES

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Posted on by Michael

It has been several weeks since we arrived back home from our trip in Tanzania with ADS and we are still talking about it every day. Words really not cannot describe what an experience this dream trip of a lifetime was for us. Let me preface by saying, that my husband was not at all keen on taking this trip but agreed, primarily so I would stop talking about it. He was more than pleasantly surprised – he absolutely loved every minute of it, as did I.

I spent countless hours researching countries, safari outfitters, and online reviews. It was a big commitment and I wanted to make sure that I made the right choice. ADS stood out in many ways. First of all I liked that they do not own any properties so were able to give me unbiased opinions on the various properties I was considering (or properties that I wasn’t even aware of). Secondly, the correspondence with ADS was pleasurable, thorough, and timely. I could tell that my rep at ADS was highly motivated to make this trip just exactly right and just exactly the way we wanted it. Her great attitude of enthusiasm and service made the trip a joy to plan. She was quick to answer any and all questions and to get any information that I needed. And, third, and most importantly, is that the trip went FLAWLESSLY! All the transfers, commuter planes, camp/lodge reservations, EVERYTHING was perfect. We were expected and well taken care of from start to finish. We felt totally secure and well-looked after from beginning to end.

We chose the northern Serengeti for our trip. I had communicated to my ADS rep that I was not interested in being somewhere where there were dozens of vehicles bearing down on an animal sighting, nor was I interested in staying in “pseudo-African” lodges that no matter how nice, could quite possibly be found at a theme park in America. With that she and I came up with the most amazing itinerary and, ultimately, the most amazing experience. A major key to how amazing this trip was, was the ADS guide that we had. Our guide was indefatigable in his pursuit of every possible wildlife experience out there. He was so enthusiastic and so knowledgeable, that every day was an adventure that left us wanting more. He was warm and funny and sincere and humble. Our last day with him had me in tears, I knew how much I was going to miss him. Many days we would come back to our lodging and in talking to other people find out that we had seen all kinds of things that NO ONE else had. We also overheard comments from guests not with ADS saying that their guide seemed bored or didn’t talk much. Our guide could spot things from so far away, it was mind-boggling – like a lion the same color as a rock, on a rock a half-mile away – seriously! The guide you have on a trip like this is so key to the entire experience and we were so so appreciative to have our guide!

So, what did we see? Just about everything!! We saw 4 – yes 4! – migration crossings of the Mara River. We saw lions and prides of lions. We saw a group of lions with a kill being challenged by a group of hyenas (guess who won? – lions, of course). We saw a lot of babies – cheetahs, lions, giraffes, monkeys, baboons, elephants, hippos, and wart hogs to name some. We saw the elusive black rhino (three of them) in the Ngorongoro Crater. We saw enormous Nile crocodiles. We saw the most beautifully colored birds that you could possibly imagine. And with all of the wildlife we had the wonderful experience of learning and seeing first hand the culture of the Tanzanian people through visiting a medical clinic, a school, and Maasai village. This is a culture of friendly, happy people. The service everywhere we stayed reflected that joy for life and their desire to please.

I am so glad I picked ADS. I have no doubt in my mind that it was the absolute best possible choice – not just for us, but for anyone. They will give you the trip you want at a competitive price and with tremendous attention to detail. Thank you for creating this trip of lifetime!

Jan Jeffries
October 2010

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Quote of the Week: Bob and Arlene Levitt, Marc and Beth Zweig

SAFARI STORIES

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Posted on by Michael

We were extremely happy that we chose ADS, and it all started with you [our ADS rep]. Your diligence in communications and working to insure our satisfaction came through. From the moment we stepped off the plane in Arusha, we were met by the ADS greeting group and needed to do no more for our entire stay. Every facet of the trip was taken care of as promised.

Our guide was fabulous, in that no request of ours was rejected. He had a game plan for each day, but any modifications suggested by us was readily accepted. He was knowledgeable, patient, and personable. Our first day we came upon the Wildebeest attempting to cross the Mara River, but they did not do so at the point expected. Each time the Wildebeest moved downstream, [our guide] moved to a location he felt could be a crossing point. We did this four or five times, until the hoped for crossing happened. Not only did he have us placed in a great position, but Wildebeest re-entered within 10 feet on both sides of our vehicle. I can’t describe the feeling we all had, but elation is not strong enough.

There was another instance in the Ngorongoro Crater where we came upon a pride of 2 adult female lions with 4 lion cubs. We were all by ourselves with no other vehicles around. We spent one hour following the pride, and each time they moved our guide repositioned us to be within the best visibility. At most times they were within feet of the vehicle, and the feeling we had was indescribable. Our guide made sure that the lions were comfortable with us, and that they would not scamper off.

 

The accommodations met and exceeded our expectations. The staff in each and every lodge and tented camps were courteous, friendly, and extremely helpful. Our special thanks to Nikki at Buffalo Springs Luxury Camp who made us feel like we had known her for years, and that we were in her private home.

Arlene and I, as well as Beth and Marc thank you for making this an extremely enjoyable journey, and we are pleased to offer our recommendation for Africa Dream Safaris.”

Bob and Arlene Levitt, Marc and Beth Zweig
September 2010

 

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Quote of the Week: Jerry and Candace Briney

SAFARI STORIES

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From the time our greeter in Arusha quickly acquired our visas until our farewell surprise at Tarangire River Camp, we were in great hands with ADS. As we discussed our day’s sightings in the evenings with other tour groups, we rapidly noticed how much more we had seen each day. Every outing brought new adventures–a beautiful caracal with a rock hyrax in its mouth, a lioness stalking and catching a Thomson’s gazelle, hundreds of wildebeest hurling themselves into the Mara River, a black mamba, bushbabies, or a mother lilac-breasted roller teaching her young to kill a snake only to see the young bird snatched away by a hawk. We thoroughly enjoyed our bird sightings from the large storks, vultures, and ibis to the small lovebirds, kingfishers, and bee-eaters. Our expert guide spotted and identified animals for us every day. We also enjoyed having “Wildlife of East Africa” by Martin B. Withers and David Hosking available to us throughout our journey. Thanks for all of the pre-trip information and help, and the wonderful care along the way.

Jerry and Candace Briney
July 2010

A caracal cat, glancing over his shoulder just long enough for the camera to click!

 

A beautiful Serval cat, pausing in a clearing before disappearing again under grassy cover.

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Quote of the Week: Dottie Shively and Bill Rothschild; Pam and Bob Pierce

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Posted on by Michael

As soon as our small plane approached the dirt runway in the Northern Serengeti and the Zebra and Wildebeest ran under our plane, we knew that we were embarking on an adventure of a lifetime! There, our ADS driver-guide and soon to be friend met us. Our guide amazed us as every day he took us to the best spots and maneuvered us into the best viewing situation. We soon valued his knowledge as he increased our enjoyment and insights into animal behavior. Each day added new animals: giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hippos, wart hogs, baboons and many more. The birds were also amazing from the ostrich to the crown crane. Watching the migration of the Wildebeest leap into the water to cross to new food sources was truly astounding.

The four of us so enjoyed our private safari. Each evening, we would discuss our day and favorite memories bringing back all events of the day. We will always remember our two evenings in the Presidential Suite with our very own dinner catered to our “private dining room”. And our stay at the opulent Crater Lodge with zebras eating in “our front yard” while we sipped our wine on our balcony was truly incredible.

We laud our pre trip preparation, missing no detail. ADS surpassed our expectations.

Dottie Shively and Bill Rothschild; Pam and Bob Pierce
October 2010

A crowned crane hunting for insects.

 

A leopard polishing off his lunch high in the boughs of an acacia tree.

 

A hyena “finding” a zebra that seems to have died of natural causes; he won’t have to work too hard for this meal!

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Quote of the Week: Dale and Raelyn Cole

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We were supposed to arrive at JRO at 1:45AM, but the flight was delayed & we landed at 4:00AM! Some 70 passengers groggily deplaned, but we alone had anyone waiting! Yes, ADS was there cheerfully ready to do whatever needed doing. In minutes we had our visas & were hustling out the door (everyone else was stumbling around bleary-eyed wondering what to do & how to get away from airport in absence of taxis). We’d followed our ADS rep’s advice & had a layover day in Arusha to recover. Next day, at Arusha airport there were dozens of folks milling around looking for planes, boarding passes, destinations, information. ADS whizzed us through & we were effortlessly on our way in less than 30 min.

Our wonderful, delightful driver/guide met us & off we went. Within minutes we were within steps of a pride of lions, followed by herds of zebra, a few giraffes, elephants on the skyline, & antelope everywhere. That entire day we did not encounter another vehicle — the northern corner was ours alone. The 2 nights at Migration Camp were lovely & our first experience of the cold wash cloths & icy drinks on arrival. How do they manage to be standing at the ready as you drive up? We were fortunate enough to witness a few hundred wildebeest gathered on a shingle debating whether to go for it. Eventually a few dozen jumped in & furiously swam. They entered the water at the head of a shallow rapids; in the still water below the rapids the crocs were waiting. Some of the wildebeest were strong enough to prevail, some were swept downstream, & some returned to shore. The crocs grabbed two of the weak swimmers, but one was close enough to our side of the river to scramble out & shake the croc off its leg. Quite a show!

As we moved into the Central Serengeti we began encountering many more vehicles. Our driver/guide has a ‘6th sense’ & quite often we were first on the scene of an ‘event’. One such event involved a pair of lion moms teaching the kids how to dine on a fresh kill — blood & soft parts. Like all children, the kids kept looking at Mom as if to say ‘do I hafta eat this?’ The nearby males hunkered down a few hundred feet away & waited until the family left before feasting on the remainders.

Our 2 nights of private camping were surely a high point of the safari, not least because Gady joined us for dinner both nights. His knowledge of his country, its animals, and people was remarkable as was his informed awareness of the rest of the world.

Ngorongoro Crater lived up to its reputation; one of the fascinating things we saw was 3 lions (one male, two female) stalk a cape buffalo. They circled & circled, eventually cutting their intended prey away from the herd; they slowly closed in, then suddenly the cape buffalo had enough, & charged the lions — who wildly fled in three directions at full speed. They re-gathered near us to discuss their failure & then slunk off.

We almost missed visiting FAME which proved another high point. The folks there are doing a terrific job serving an area of Tanzania that lacks basic medical services. Well worth whatever time & support we can supply.

Of all the tented lodges, Swala most embodied perfection. Some others were more ‘elegant’, but at Swala everything was exactly right. All the furnishings & fittings belonged, the managers genuinely gracious, the food superb, & ambiance sufficient to satisfy anyone’s African Dream. Our 2 nights at Swala were a fitting conclusion to our 2-week safari with ADS.

Dale and Raelyn Cole
October 2010


A mother elephant and her young calf digging a well to search for clean water on the side of a river in Lake Manyara National Park.

 

A rare Kudu antelope taken in Tarangire National Park.

 

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Quote of the Week: Vivek and Deb Kansal

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Posted on by Michael

The trip is something Deb and I will remember for the rest of our lives. The experience of being in the middle of the Serengeti with no one else around but the animals is hard to describe.

My main request coming into the trip was to try to stay away from other vehicles (my concern was a zoo type feeling). Our guide did an excellent job of keeping us isolated from the rest. Most of our days in the Serengeti were spent completely alone with no other vehicles around. We were able to watch animals in peace without feeling like we were infringing on their land. He was also completely flexible, allowing us to stay with animals for as long as we liked as we came across them. We spent an hour with a lioness as she hunted two warthogs. Unfortunately at the very end she decided it wasn’t worth the effort and gave up. We spent about 90 minutes following a cheetah as it stalked a Thomson Gazelle and finally went in for a successful kill. The experience of staying with the animals for as long as we did while they hunted was incredible. We truly felt like we were a part of the hunt.

The lodges were very nice, with over the top service (Deb and I are actually not accustomed to the level of service provided and at times felt uncomfortable). The food was pretty good. The best accommodations we experienced BY FAR was the private classic camping. The ADS camp crew was very polite and friendly. They were very accommodating and adjusted when we mentioned we would prefer “less” service. The food, in our opinion, was much better than the other lodges. The picnic breakfast and lunches from the ADS crew were significantly better than the lodges. The camping experience was unbelievable.

Overall, we were extremely pleased with the ADS crew and level of service. We would definitely recommend ADS to any friends. We would also definitely recommend the private camping. I am not sure what we would say about the other lodges though, but in reality this was a small aspect of the trip and I am sure others enjoy the parts that made Deb and I uncomfortable.

I could type alot more but I think this email is already long enough. We had a blast and will never forgot it.

Vivek and Deb Kansal
October 2010

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Quote of the Week: Jim and Maxine Kaler

Romantic Getaways

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Posted on by Michael

What, we asked, would best celebrate our 50th anniversary? It came down to France or Africa. Africa, thank goodness, won. And won big. Neither of us can imagine a better adventure, a better time, a better guide, a better people than we found in Tanzania. Everything we were promised came true and then some. If we could, we’d do it all over again.

Highlights? How about a guard elephant running off lions to protect the rest of the wandering herd. Or thinking that the Land Cruiser gear box had gone out when the loud noise was made by another elephant chasing US off. Or the Cape Buffalo who kept chasing lions away from his water hole. After 40 lions we gave up counting.

But it was raw nature that most fascinated. Four lions formed a coalition to grab a wildebeest (without question the homeliest mammal alive). Creeping up toward center and both flanks, one then made a mad dash — all four legs off the ground, dust and birds flying — and missed! Slinking away, all was over for a time.

But not for cheetahs. The pictures tell the story. We came upon a nest with four cubs, and went off road to watch them. There is Mom 20 yards away, and we are in the middle! No worry, we move…and watch. There is a herd of gazelles a couple hundred yards off. Mom gathers the brood, and they follow her as she creeps toward the gazelles. It’s a teaching moment. All of a sudden she explodes — they can hit 70 miles an hour — and so do the gazelles. And so does the land cruiser, with ‘ol Jim holding onto the rear rails photographing for dear life as we bounce along following her. Our guide returns us, and there is Mom with a young gazelle in her jaws. Putting it down, she starts chirping, calling her cubs back. One by one they return and go to the nest. Mom must rest before the meal. And at that point we let them be. But what mixed emotions. We cheer for Mom feeding her cubs. But there is the mother gazelle off in the distance looking back in apparent sadness.

More lions. Strolling with the vehicle, mating, sleeping. Oh my the elegance of the giraffes! And more and more and more zebras, a thousand stretching out to the horizon, rolling in dust, walking in the river, mixing with the wildebeests and gazelles. Baboons are coming at us, watch out! Here is a yawning crocodile, there in the pool hippos are fighting. Eagles fly overhead. We see lions eating the remains of an eland, with the hyenas waiting for their share and the vultures waiting way in back to clean it all up. And we can’t leave out the flowers and the grasses of every description.

Accommodations at night were fantastic. Imagine! You open the door of your lodge and there is a tall Maasai with staff waiting to escort you. And there is a crew of five at our luxury tent with kitchen, chef, and bar — in the middle of the vast African hills. We sleep in a quiet tent with shower and bathroom after watching a glorious African sunset.

We conclude with visiting an actual Maasai village replete with dancers and an elder who invites us into a hut to tell us about his culture. We visit the bottom of the Ngorongoro Crater with its flamingos and rhinos. We watch the Maasai herding their cattle. Even here there are elephants. And then we visit the awesome cradle of humankind, the Olduvai Gorge in the Great Rift Valley.

Relaxing? Up at 5:30 to hit the road (“road”?) at 6, we get to watch all the animals and birds at their best. We are in and out of the vehicle for 10-12 hours, and the time goes by like magic. Our wonderfully knowledgeable guide who could not do enough for us, says hey there is a lion — or you name it — half a mile off, and we follow it. Then later there is time to relax over a fine dinner prepared and served by caring people. Thank you, Africa Dream, thank you Africa!

Jim and Maxine Kaler
May 2010

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Quote of the Week: Diana Gammon and Donna Knox

Bucket List

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Posted on by Michael

Fulfilling our “Africa Dream” truly began with our first contact with Africa Dream Safaris. Knowing that the choice of Safari company would make or break our experience, we did a lot of research and communicated with several companies. From our first contact with our sales consultant at Africa Dream Safaris, we knew we had found the perfect fit. Over a period of several months, she got to know us and helped us plan a safari that was tailored exclusively to meet our needs.

At each point along the way, everything was meticulously planned and executed. When we arrived in Dar es Salaam and then in Arusha, feeling somewhat overwhelmed, there were our ADS reps, welcoming us with smiles, taking care of all the details, including giving us a cell phone in case we needed to contact them while on safari!

Our driver was attentive, professional and had the most amazing eyesight. Each day he made a point of showing us something different and we saw far more wildlife than we had ever dreamed of. Being on a private safari meant total flexibility – one day we spent over an hour watching 2 lion cubs play and tussle like kittens right beside our jeep. Another day we drove deep into the bush to find the elusive oryx. Although we were “in the back of beyond”, at all times we felt safe, and when we observed some of the other safari companies in operation, we were very glad we had chosen ADS.

Our accommodations were superb and fully met our expectations. A special memory was our 3 days at the Tented Migration Camp – a magical setting and wonderful hospitality.

There were so many golden moments –the wildebeest crossing the Mara River as the sun rose, a herd of elephant passing single file within arm’s length of our jeep, giraffes “necking”, sipping wine at sunset on our veranda at Swala as the zebra and antelope wandered past to gather at the water hole.

We cannot say enough about our experience. This was a trip of a lifetime, so, of course, we wanted everything to be perfect – and it was. To all the staff at ADS – Asante Sana! You greatly exceeded our expectations and made this truly an African Dream.

Diana Gammon and Donna Knox
September 2010

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