The top 5 experiences in Kenya and Tanzania

A handful of East Africa's highlights

by Sandra Mallinson, 1 July 2007

For many their idea of Africa as a travel destination is based on images from Kenya and Tanzania. The iconic photo of an elephant silhouetted against Kilimanjaro, dramatic images of wildebeest crossing the Mara River or the portrait of a Maasai warrior wearing a traditional red blanket.

Big, bigger, biggest

There's an old saying; "everything is bigger in Texas”. When I think of Texas, I think of big cars, big houses and, of course, big money. At the other end of the spectrum is Africa; known for its wildlife, landscapes and wide open spaces. And, on this continent, everything is bigger in the east.

With the highest free-standing mountain peak, largest game reserve, biggest wildlife herds and largest intact caldera; Kenya and Tanzania are countries of superlatives. Add to this a rich diversity of cultures, fascinating archaeological sites and a coastline that many divers dream of, and you'll begin to understand why choosing just five experiences was a tricky task

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Wildlife spectacle

It would seem wrong not to start the list with what has been dubbed the greatest show on earth; the annual migration of more than 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Imagine thousands of bearded gnu all grazing placidly or galloping in a thundering column of dust and hooves stretching from horizon to horizon. The dramatic river crossings, waiting predators and vast grasslands all add to this visual feast.

It cannot be said exactly when the herds will pass a particular area as their movement is dictated by the rains, and has been effected by recent weather changes. However, there is a pattern that can be used as a guideline when planning a safari to Tanzania's Serengeti or the Masai Mara in Kenya, which will give you the chance to look out across plains peppered with wildebeest, or watch as fearful animals tumble over one another in their frenzy to get across a river.

The clink of fine china

If you'd love to see the migration, but your idea of the ideal holiday is wildlife viewing combined with colonial opulence, award winning wines and a spa treatment or two, then head for the Grumeti Reserves. Grumeti has partnered with Singita, a name synonymous with luxury and exclusivity.

One of the main advantages of a privately owned reserve is the fantastic range of activities on offer; from hot air ballooning and equestrian safaris on thoroughbred horses, to croquet lawns and a game of tennis on a court made from crushed termite mounds. One of the lodges, Sasakwa Hill Lodge, made Condé Nast Traveler's '2007 Hot List' and was voted onto Luxury Travel Magazine's list of 'The World's Most Exciting New Hotels 2007'.

Roof of Africa

Tanzania is also a great destination for adventure seekers. Those wanting a challenge need look no further than Africa's highest mountain. Mt Kilimanjaro can be climbed at any time of the year. The various, well-marked routes pass through beautiful rain forests, open moorlands, alpine desert, and snow fields, before reaching Uhuru Peak, a staggering 5, 895m above sea level.

While it's not necessary to be a lean, mean hiking machine; reaching the summit can be both physically and mentally demanding. A good friend of mine recently "conquered the mighty Kili”, and described her last seven hours as "about as much fun as scuba diving without oxygen”. Still, she can't stop talking about her experience, with that glint in her eye and a small, self-satisfied smile.

Off the beaten track

The Selous Game Reserve is relatively unknown and yet this immense sanctuary is a UNESCO world heritage site supporting the largest population of wild dogs in Africa, as well as massive herds of buffalo and elephant, and an amazing diversity of birdlife.

The scale of the reserve is difficult to imagine. Nearly four times the size of the Serengeti, it's easy to understand why most visitors opt for a fly-in safari. Once there, the best way to explore the region is by boat, meandering through channels and swamps past pods of hippos and basking crocs.

Although the Selous is currently one of the most remote and least visited reserves in Africa, this is rapidly changing. New developments are on the cards so, if you want to experience a relatively unspoilt piece of Tanzanian wilderness, we recommend you get there sooner rather that later.

More than just a checklist

There are a lot of valuable community projects in Kenya. Many people are now opting to combine their wildlife viewing with a more meaningful travel experience, whether that be helping to build a local school, coaching sport or working with wildlife rehabilitation.

You don't need any special skills to help with these projects, and they are often a great way to learn a bit about local cultures. At times the work may be challenging, but it's never a case of all work and no play. Some of the projects also offer family programmes.

It's your choice

Standing on a rise with animals as far as the eye can see, sipping champagne as you float above the Serengeti Plains, shivering and happy on the top of Kilimanjaro, cruising along the waterways of the Selous, lending a hand in a small Kenyan village ... there really is a bit of something for everyone in this diverse section of East Africa.

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