When reading guide books, or delving into the world of Google, Lake Kivu is described as the ‘Resort’ area of Rwanda. Beachside style towns, well equipped lodges and swimming areas, all denote a decidedly Mediterranean image. And so one travels to these beachside locations, expecting ice cream parlors and sun loungers strewn along a golden sand beach. Not quite the reality of the Lake Kivu area. It’s way nicer than that! Are there resorts with … Read More »
‘King Kong’, ‘Congo’, ‘Gorillas In The Mist’, and many more. There are countless movies, books and stories that denote the absolute mysticism and magic of the mountain gorilla. As one of the rarest species on the planet, and one that conjures such imagery, it’s no wonder that those who visit East Africa, make a gorilla trek the highlight of their tour. For us too, the mere thought of coming face to face with an animal … Read More »
Crossing over the border from Uganda into Rwanda one would be forgiven for thinking that they had entered into the twilight zone. Immediately upon crossing that invisible line several things happen at once. The time changes. That one hour difference causing havoc in heads and thoughts instantly. The roads become perfect, immaculately maintained. It takes a little readjustment to navigate through new terrain whilst also focusing on driving on a different side. The … Read More »
After long periods in National Parks, moving each day to a new site, and keeping busy with game drives, boat cruises and hikes, it is with some relief that one arrives at the shores of Lake Bunyoni. A peaceful lake, dotted with 29 islands. Bilharzia, hippo and croc free, the lake provides the opportunity to sink into refreshingly cool waters, beer in hand, and panoramic views to absorb. The lake is a gateway for … Read More »
On the western side of Uganda, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo lies one of the most famous National Parks in Africa. Its history is rich and its roots lie in the previous colonialism that ran through the country. It was in this park that Princess Elizabeth was holidaying when she became Queen. The terrain is unlike many that we have seen. Crater lakes dot the landscape and two larger lakes on each side of … Read More »
The life-giving waters of the River Nile are depended upon by millions of Africans across the Continent. It brings life to farms, it’s power creates electricity and it sustains countries of people. As it moves through Uganda from its source in Lake Victoria it spans between 40 and 50 meters, its waters moving purposefully northwards. About 400km north of The Lake it reaches an area made of dense hard rocks. So hard, that even its … Read More »
Following the River Nile from its source at Lake Victoria and heading north west up through the greenery of Uganda we arrived at the town of Masindi, gateway to the Budongo and Murchison National Parks. Budongo Forest is home to some 800 chimpanzees and is a great place for tracking these intelligent primates. Setting out early in the morning we entered into the thick lush forest and began meandering along tiny pathways through the giant … Read More »
The town of Nakuru is a welcome surprise for those having travelled for longer periods. A relatively sophisticated mall housing decent technology shops, pharmacies, and a wonderful food supermarket, seem a lot more exciting than previously, and one leaves feeling re-stocked and ready to go again. The city is the fourth largest in Kenya, well laid out, modern and friendly, and is a great place to take stock and re-group. Less than a kilometer … Read More »
The Masai Mara, with its huge animal populations and tall stately tribesman, wearing bright colours and sporting long sharp spears, has long been an iconic destination. It became ever more popular when the series ‘Big Cat Diaries’ began, and the fate of the Marsh Pride was introduced to the world. The Mara and its lions were jettisoned to stardom and became a household name. As such it was with a certain level of expectation that … Read More »
The mere mention of the word Serengeti conjures up visions of scenes from ‘Out of Africa’ and ‘Born Free’. Vast open plains of pale brown grass, dotted with iconic acacia trees and rock formations. Skies that roll out forever, alternating between vivid blues and angry stormy purple. As far as the eye can see, herds and herds of wildebeest, in their everlasting circular migration, dust clouds rising up around them as they travel in their … Read More »
