Safaris by design
2025 EAST-AFRICA: SAFARI & GORILLAS
BALL

DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
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USD $ 11,494 / pps*
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THE GREAT MIGRATION!
THE ANNUAL GREAT MIGRATION
Migration details
WHEN TO GO?
The allure of the Serengeti and Masai Mara extends throughout the year, offering a captivating wildlife experience regardless of the season. Contrary to popular belief, the Great Migration isn't a one-time event; it's a perpetual cycle that unfolds year-round. The vast Serengeti ecosystem is a dynamic landscape, and while the migration's location may vary, the spectacle of animals on the move is a constant. The wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores engage in a continuous circular migration, following the availability of fresh grass and water. This means that visitors can witness the breathtaking phenomenon of migration at different stages, from river crossings to calving seasons, providing a unique and immersive experience at any time. Whether it's the lush greenery of the rainy season or the dramatic river crossings during the dry season, the Serengeti and Masai Mara offer a year-round invitation to explore the unparalleled wonders of East Africa's wildlife.
PEAK "MIGRATION SEASON"
In late July and early August, the Masai Mara region transforms into a theater of nature's grandeur as the annual Great Migration reaches its climax. This extraordinary spectacle unfolds along the Mara River, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores undertake the perilous journey from the southern Serengeti in Tanzania to the lush plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya. The Mara River crossings become the focal point of this awe-inspiring event, as the migrating herds face the daunting challenge of navigating through crocodile-infested waters. The air is charged with anticipation as the animals gather on the riverbanks, hesitating before plunging into the currents. The heart-stopping moments of river crossings are both a testament to the instinct for survival and a dramatic display of the circle of life. It's a riveting chapter in the natural history of East Africa that draws wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike, seeking to witness the raw beauty and drama of the animal kingdom in its most primal state.
A year-round invitation to explore the unparalleled wonders of East Africa's wildlife!
WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Get ready to be amazed!
Amboseli is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Kenya — with the main attraction undoubtedly Mount Kilimanjaro — Africa’s highest peak.The park is famous for being the best place in Africa to get close to large herds of elephants among other wildlife species.
Olerai Conservancy, nestled in the heart of Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes, offers a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike – a unique opportunity to witness Africa’s diverse ecosystems and iconic wildlife up close, from majestic elephants to elusive big cats.
Journey through the home of almost half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, the extraordinary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Gorilla trekking!. You’ll hike through the breathtaking jungles of the park and spot these endangered gorillas up close, gaining insight into their daily habits.
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 1-2 | Kenya
Arrival in Nairobi
◽️ DAY 3-4 | Kenya
Amboseli NP
◽️ DAY 5-7 | Kenya
Olerai Conservancy
◽️ DAY 8 | Kenya
Nairobi overnight
◽️ DAY 9 | Uganda
Entebbe
◽️ DAY 10-11 | Uganda
Bwindi Forest
◽️ DAY 12 | Return
End of safari
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Departure
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1-2 | Nairobi arrival
NAIROBI (Kenya)
Nairobi overnight
📍 Karen Blixen Cottages
KAREN BLIXEN COTTAGES
Hotel Overview
Bed & Breakfast, drinks excl. | Wifi Available | No laundry service
Step into the enchanting embrace of history and elegance at the Historic Swedo House, nestled within the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden. This hallowed site was once the original farmhouse, and now, the meticulously designed cottages offer a unique opportunity to relive the past in splendid style. Located just half a mile away from the prestigious Karen Golf and Country Club, guests can revel in an array of activities, from golfing to tennis, squash, and more. The Coffee Garden spans 5 acres of captivating land adorned with majestic hundred-year-old trees and a blooming garden, home to an array of vibrant flowers and a delightful chorus of birdsong.
Be transported to a bygone era as you reside amidst one of Kenya's oldest formal gardens, graced by imposing jacaranda, candelabra, cactus, bottlebrush, and other magnificent trees. The cottages themselves exude timeless charm, boasting high-beam ceilings, inviting fireplaces, and rich wood and mazeras stone floors. Embrace indulgence in the spacious bedrooms, each featuring a grand bathroom complete with its own shower and bath. For those seeking extra privacy and space, three cottages offer two private suites accompanied by a separate dressing room.
Unwind on the verandah of your cottage, where you can bask in the beauty of the garden, surrounded by an exquisite array of birds, butterflies, and blooming flowers. Surrender to luxurious comfort with twenty-four-hour room service, catering to your every whim. For moments of utter relaxation, an inviting private swimming pool and garden bar await, providing the perfect setting for leisurely afternoons.
B&B
GUEST LODGE
TOURS
DAY 3-4 | Amboseli National Park
AMBOSELI NP
Safari Days
📍 Tawi Lodge
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Amboseli National Park: Its signature attraction is the sight of hundreds of big-tusked elephants set against the backdrop of Africa’s best views of Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Africa’s highest peak broods over the southern boundary of the park, and while cloud cover can render the mountain’s massive bulk invisible for much of the day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas when the weather clears, usually at dawn and/or dusk.The park was established as a national park IN 1974 in order to protect the biodiversity of species and this unique ecosystem and is now declared as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Declared a national reserve in 1968. It became a national park in 1974. However, in 2005, President Mwai Kibaki transferred control from the Kenya Wildlife Service to the Olkejuedo County Council and its residents, the Masai tribe. This is still being contested in the courts because of its implications that could jeopardize Kenya's other national parks.
Apart from guaranteed elephant sightings, you’ll also see wildebeest and zebras, and you’ve a reasonable chance of spotting lions, cheetahs and hyenas. Amboseli National Park offers some of the best opportunities to see African animals because its vegetation is sparse due to the long dry months. Amboseli National Park has over 80 different mammals to be found ranging from the tiny (and rarely seen) speckled elephant shrew to the huge bulk of the African elephant. The park is also home to over 370 bird species, both large and small, to see if you keep your eyes open and stop at every sighting.
ACTIVITIES
Game drives in the Amboseli National Park
A prime location for witnessing the majesty of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro! The camp is named after the flat-topped, umbrella thorn tree, the Acacia Tortilis.
Activity: Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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TAWI LODGE
Camp Overview
Tawi Lodge, situated on a vast private conservancy spanning 3,000 acres, lies just a brief five-minute drive from Amboseli National Park. Operating in an environmentally conscious manner, the lodge offers stunning vistas of Mt. Kilimanjaro from its position overlooking a watering hole. Amidst the arid surroundings of Amboseli, guests can unwind amidst the serene and verdant gardens of the lodge.
This conservancy, managed in collaboration with the African Wildlife Foundation, serves as a testament to the partnership between wildlife preservation and the well-being of the Maasai community, fostering sustainable development along the corridor linking Amboseli and the Chyulu Hills.
Each cottage features its own wooden-deck veranda, offering breathtaking views of Africa's tallest mountain, even visible from the comfort of your bed or bathtub. All cottages boast en-suite bathrooms complete with both a bathtub and shower, as well as a cozy fireplace for added comfort and ambiance.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 5-7 | Olerai Conservancy (Greater Masai Mara)
OLERAI CONSERVANCY
Safari Days
📍 Lerai Safari Camp
OLERAI CONSERVANCY
Area Overview
The Olerai Conservancy was founded on the generosity of tribal landowners in order to improve wildlife ranges and migration pathways. The entire spectrum of African wildlife may be found here, and it now boasts the highest concentration of giraffe and eland in the local eco-system. Masai Giraffes are distinguished by their characteristic jigsaw puzzle splotched pattern.
The Masai Mara National Reserve and the surrounding conservancies constitute one of Kenya’s most famous wilderness areas. The conservancies include: Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Mara North Conservancy, Lemek Conservancy, Ol Choro Conservancy, Olerai Conservancy, Naiboisho Conservancy, Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Siana Group Ranch and Ol Derkesi Conservancy.
These Maasai-owned conservancies are set aside for wildlife conservation and tourism, with land leased to safari companies that pay monthly fees. This income supports local communities, funding education and development, while the Maasai are allowed to graze cattle under strict conditions.
Tourist numbers and vehicle access are limited, ensuring exclusivity and reducing impact, which helps maintain abundant wildlife. Unlike traditional parks, fences keep wildlife out of the conservancies. Activities like guided walks, night drives, and off-road safaris are offered, with Maasai guides educating visitors about the ecosystem, wildlife, and the cultural uses of plants. Conservancy guests can also visit the nearby national park, but not the other way around.
Lions and cheetahs migrate in and out of the zone, but they are frequently seen since the Olerai plains are ideal hunting grounds. The reserve has an elephant corridor, and the elephants use it as a feeding site as well as a dispersal region because of the thick marshy grasses.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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LERAI SAFARI CAMP
Camp Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks | No wifi | Laundry at addl. cost
A place unchanged by the passage of time, the Masai Mara is essential Africa. Sometimes raw, always dramatic, this is a wilderness of evocative splendor and inspiring grandeur. Often raw, sometimes violent, the drama of this wildlife theater is unmatched.. Nowhere on earth can you find a wilderness so breathtakingly beautiful and yet so serenely pristine.
This is one of the richest wild ecosystems in the world. A number of lion pride territories meet in the Olerai Conservancy which can make for some interesting encounters as the different groups battle for dominance.The camp is the only permanent safari accommodation in the 5,000 acre Olerai Conservancy.
The 6 safari suites are made from Canvas with interiors that express the beauty of traditional East African safari style. Charging facilities are available in all rooms at specific hours with solar lights lighting the atmosphere at night.The camp offers massages, Masai cultural immersion excursions, walking safaris, day and night game drives, hot air ballooning, horse riding and breakfast and lunch in the bush.
ACTIVITIES:
Big 5 Game Drives & Game Walks
Game viewing starts at your doorstep! Guests have access to the Conservancy’s thousands of acres of exclusive, low-vehicle density tourism land, home to extensive areas of important habitat for a vast number of wildlife species.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 8 | Nairobi overnight
NAIROBI (Kenya)
Nairobi overnight
📍 4 Points by Sheraton
4 POINTS BY SHERATON
Hotel Overview
Bed & Breakfast only | Wifi available | No Laundry service
Located only 1 mi (1.6 km) from the airport, Four Points By Sheraton Nairobi Airport offers a free shuttle (available 24 hours). You can grab a bite to eat at one of the 2 restaurants and visit the spa to be pampered with massages, facials or manicures and pedicures. Other highlights at this upmarket hotel include 2 bars/lounges, a health club and a fitness centre.
B&B
HOTEL
OVERNIGHT
DAY 9 | Entebbe
ENTEBBE (Uganda)
Entebbe overnight
📍 Karibu Guest House
KARIBU GUEST HOUSE
Guest House Overview
Bed & Breakfast, drinks excl. | Wifi Available | No laundry service
Entebbe is renowned for its charming and intimate guesthouses, with Karibu Guesthouse standing out as a favorite. Nestled amidst the verdant slopes of Entebbe, just a brief 10-minute drive from Entebbe International Airport, Karibu offers boutique accommodation tailored for a select number of guests.
At Karibu, guests can savor a dining experience infused with Mediterranean influences, with the chefs priding themselves on the culinary delights they craft. Set against the serene backdrop of Entebbe's lush hillsides, Karibu provides a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Moreover, Karibu boasts enchanting gardens frequented by over 50 diverse bird species, adding to the allure of its natural surroundings.
B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 10-11 | Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
BWINDI FOREST
Gorilla Trekking
📍 Mahohany Springs Lodge
BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST
Area Overview
The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest! is a biodiverse, mountainous area in southwest Uganda. An ancient rain forest, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest extends over a series of steep ridges in the Virunga Volcanoes mountain range. Declared a UNESCO world heritage site due to its ecological uniqueness and natural beauty, roughly half of the world’s total gorilla population live in this park.
The Mountain Gorillas are among Uganda’s top tourist attraction. While trekking these great creatures, the experience and excitement you encounter while with them is really worthwhile. Tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Forest can be conducted all year round.
Gorilla trekking is a unique, thrilling and fulfilling experience – it is a journey leading one to appreciate the hidden treasures of Uganda. There are over 36 gorilla groups within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest but only eleven can be visited for gorilla tracking since others are still undergoing habituation process. Visiting one or more habituated gorilla groups in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is worth as each of them tells different stories which afterwards rewards visitors with unforgettable experiences of a life time. The habituated gorillas are now used to humans but they are wild. So anything unexpected can happen-follow the guides rules you will get no harm normally you do not eat or drink when you’re with the gorillas. You should keep a distance of 7m from the gorillas, although of course the gorillas themselves are unaware of this and will often get very close, in which case you should try to move away.
ACTIVITIES
Meet the gorillas eye to eye in the wild and spend a full hour watching, photographing and learning about these great apes that are only found in Uganda!
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Batwa Community walk
This three-hour Community walk unveils to you to the local people living close to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest plus their culture. You will gain knowledge of the cultural ways – Locally made art crafts – the Dances- their Traditional cooking – the Brewing- as well as their Herbal Medicines. At the end of this walk you will meet the Batwa People, the original dwellers of Bwindi Forest.
Activity:Gorilla Trekking
Located at the entrance of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Buhoma Lodge is positioned as one of just two lodges nestled within the national park. It serves as the ideal accommodation choice for those embarking on a much-awaited Gorilla trekking adventure.
Famous for its inviting reception and attentive service, visitors appreciate the comforting atmosphere of this lodge, inspired by the essence of Africa. Constructed from sustainable materials, the raised central lounge, bar, and dining space (where delectable multi-course meals are served) provides a welcoming haven for guests to relax, all while enjoying uninterrupted and stunning views of the forest. The crackling fireplace further enhances the ambiance, adding an air of mystique to cooler evenings.
With a tranquil and snug quality, the ten generously-sized, environmentally conscious wooden chalets offer a secluded getaway. Guests can drift off to sleep to the melodies of the forest and wake up to the lively sounds of birds and monkeys as the day begins. The private verandah is an ideal spot for morning tea or coffee, offering sweeping vistas over the untouched forest—a truly delightful way to commence the day.
Fly to Kihili Airstrip. Airstrip meet & greet with road transfer to camp Day at leisure, preparing for tomorrow's adventure!
MAHOGANY SPRINGS
Lodge Overview
Full board, drinks excl. | Wifi available | Laundry service available
Set on the banks of the pristine Munyanga River and facing the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest! A huge terrace wraps around the main building, from where guests can enjoy views of the forest and relax to the sound of the river flowing gently by. Sink into a chair in front of the fireplace in the living room with a book, or enjoy a drink from the bar before sitting down to dinner in the restaurant or out on the terrace.
Most of the produce used is grown on-site to ensure everything is as fresh as it is delicious.
FULL BOARD
LODGE
TREKKING
DAY 12 | Departure
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
GORILLA TREK PACKING LIST SUGGESTION
Kindly note that the packing list below is just a mere guideline as you may have your own preferences
- 1-2 long sleeved shirts
- 3 short sleeved t-shirts
- 2 –3 pairs of light weight slacks/trousers – that can dry quickly (if wearing on treks)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- A waterproof and windproof jacket
- 1 skirt ( for women)
- Gloves – gardening or similar (for gorilla trekking)
- Strong waterproof walking boots – pants should be tucked into socks and boots while trekking
- (heavy soled rain boots also work well)
- Pair of sports sandals like Tevas
- Hat-wide brim or with a visor for sun protection
- Sleepwear
- Underwear
- Lightweight wool socks
- Swimsuit (and a plastic bag)
Miscellaneous
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with neck strap
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Small day pack
- Flashlight
- Binoculars
- Extra batteries
- Camera and extra lenses
- Film particularly fast film for the gorillas.
- Personal toiletries
- Prescription medicines and possibly prescription itself
First Aid Kit including rehydration sachets, anti-diarrhea medicine, aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, band-aids, motion sickness pills, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication.
PAPERWORK
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- A signed APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari. Click here to print more copies if needed)
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Safari Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari
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Email back to Africa Photo Safaris
KENYA VISAS
- Note that your need to apply for a MULTIPLE ENTRY visa for Kenya
- Local host details to be used for Tanzania & Kenya applications to be updated
TANZANIA VISAS
- Note that your need to apply for a MULTIPLE ENTRY visa for Tanzania
- Local host details to be used for Tanzania applications to be updated
UGANDA VISAS
- Note that your need to apply for a SINGLE ENTRY visa for Uganda
- Local host details to be used for Uganda applications to be updated