There is palpable energy across East Africa at this time of year. As the great migration continues to command the plains of the Maasai Mara and adventure beckons from the peaks of the Rwenzoris to the shores of Zanzibar, we are reminded of the vibrant spirit that makes this region so unique. It is our greatest privilege to connect you to the heart of these experiences.
This season is also one of immense pride for our entire group, as our commitment to enhancing your journey is met with incredible recognition. We are investing directly in your comfort, most recently with the expansion of our luxury ground fleet to make the iconic Mara-Serengeti connection even more seamless.
It is deeply gratifying when these efforts are celebrated. From Airkenya being crowned Kenya’s Leading Domestic Safari Carrier for the fourth time, to Regional Air earning another prestigious nomination following last year’s win, these accolades affirm that we are on the right path.
This spirit of excellence is embodied by our people, and every achievement is a reflection of their dedication. On behalf of all of them, I extend our sincerest gratitude to you, our guests and partners. Your trust is the tailwind that lifts us.
We wish you safe and unforgettable travels. Warmly,
John Kimondo Group Chief Executive Officer
This spirit of excellence is embodied by our people, and every achievement is a reflection of their dedication.
Karibu
Dear Sky-High Wanderers,
September in East Africa is like that friend who shows up fashionably late to the party but somehow makes everything more interesting. September is often a dry and beautiful month with the short rains arriving mid-October … but really, these days, who knows! Often I find that in September there is a crisp, golden-hour energy that makes you want to do something slightly reckless … if you are on safari, why not book a hot air balloon ride over the Mara or finally learn to play that thumb piano you bought in Kampala!
The wildebeest have crossed the Mara river throughout August, and maybe you feel that, because of that, you missed something, but here's the thing about September; it rewards the curious. The real magic always happens in the margins.
In Tanzania, the baobab trees around Tarangire are dropping their fruit, and the elephants are basically hosting their own harvest festival. Up in Uganda, the mountain gorillas in Bwindi are enjoying the drier weather, which means clearer trekking conditions and fewer muddy boots (your laundry will thank you) and ants in your pants!
Tanzania's coast is having its moment too. The monsoon winds have shifted, dhows are dancing across turquoise waters and the fish markets in Zanzibar are bursting with the kind of seafood that makes you question every restaurant meal you've ever had back home.
But perhaps September's greatest gift is its predictability. Unlike June's moody skies or November's dramatic downpours, September knows exactly what it's doing. The roads are passable, the skies are Instagram-ready, and your chances of seeing a leopard draped artistically over an acacia branch are significantly higher than your chances
of remembering where you put your passport.
This month, we're celebrating the art of being present in places that demand your full attention. Whether you're watching a Maasai elder read the wind patterns near Amboseli, sharing a Tusker with new friends at an Entebbe jazz club, or simply sitting in comfortable silence as the sun sets over Lake Victoria, September reminds us that the best travel stories aren't always the ones with the most dramatic plot twists.
So, buckle up, fellow adventurers. September's calling, and it's speaking in the language of golden light, dusty roads and the kind of encounters that make you realise your regular life might be just a little too regular.
Here's to dry roads, clear skies and the beautiful chaos of East Africa in full swing.
Karibu to September 2025 . . . the show is about to start.
Hollie M’gog
Editor, Ndege News
Publisher
Editor Hollie M’gog
The Business Platform Ltd P O Box 103364-00101, Nairobi. Tel: 254 -741 070001
Publisher
Email: businessplatformkenya@gmail.com
The Business Platform Ltd P. O. Box 103364-00101, Nairobi. Tel: 254 -741 070001
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ondabupeter@gmail.com
Design and Layout
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NDEGE which means aeroplane in Kiswahili is a quarterly Magazine publication of AIRKENYA Express Limited
NDEGE which means aeroplane in Kiswahili is a quarterly Magazine publication of AIRKENYA Express Limited
Wilson Airport
P.O. Box 30357 - 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
Reservations
Wilson Airport P.O. Box 30357 - 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: (254-20) 391 6000
Email: resvns@airkenya.com
Reservations
Tel: (254-20) 391 6000
Email: resvns@airkenya.com
The magazine focuses on tourism, hospitality, travel, leisure, conservation and aviation related news in the East African region and beyond.
The views expressed in NDEGE NEWS Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of either AIRKENYA EXPRESS, REGIONAL AIR SERVICES and / or AEROLINK UGANDA.
The magazine focuses on tourism, hospitality, travel, leisure, conservation and aviation related news in the East African region and beyond. The views expressed in NDEGE NEWS Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of either AIRKENYA EXPRESS, REGIONAL AIR SERVICES and / or AEROLINK UGANDA.
All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced by any means without permission from the Publisher.
All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced by any means without permission from the Publisher.
Nigeria is not a destination that draws tourists searching for big cats and melodramatic landscapes but I have always been drawn to the natural world's majesty and beauty. Somehow, I have always wanted to capture the essence of wildlife in my chosen medium of charcoal and graphite, each piece taking up to a month to complete.
I discovered my talent at the age of four - sounds dramatic, but it's true. One day, little me picked up a pencil and drew ... a cup. Not a stick figure holding a cup, no, just the cup. But it looked real, so real that my teachers carried it around like the Mona Lisa and showed it off in the staff room.
My mother showed up to pick me up and ended up bringing me gifts, like I'd won the Nobel Prize. That's when I realised: okay, I might be onto something.
Cover My Story
Born and raised in Enugu State, Nigeria, I grew up drawing everything I could see: animals, people, that one weird tree outside our house. My art was always selected for school exhibitions, and I slowly became "the guy who can draw." My parents were my biggest fans (and critics), always pushing me to keep going.
Fast forward: I'm now a law student, juggling legal textbooks by day and sketchpads by night. Weird combo? Maybe. But just like a good court case, art requires attention to detail, patience, and sometimes a bit of dramatic flair.
The leopard drawing featured on this magazine's cover is one of my proudest pieces. Done entirely with charcoal and graphite pencils, it took about a month and several ruined erasers to finish.
For me, it's not just a leopard; it's a symbol of focus, strength and wild creativity.
I create because I love it, because nature is beautiful, and because four-year-old me would be disappointed if I didn't. I hope my work makes people pause, smile and maybe even pick up a pencil themselves. Who says a future lawyer can't draw leopards?
A Four-Time Winner!
Airkenya Honoured as Kenya's Top Safari Carrier
Thrilled to be crowned Kenya's Leading Domestic Safari Carrier at the World Travel Awards! This remarkable achievement marks the fourth time we have been honoured with this prestigious award, a journey that began when we were the pioneer winners of the category in 2013.
Our team, proudly represented at the ceremony by Marketing Manager Jean Uku, Regional Sales Manager Anne Hiri, and Sales Supervisor Jared Mdamu, celebrates this incredible honour.
This award is a testament to our team’s dedication, and most importantly, to your trust. A heartfelt thank you to our valued guests and partners for your votes and continued confidence in us!
A Seamless Ride from the Mara to the Serengeti and vice versa!
Great news for our cross-border adventurers! Airkenya has expanded its luxury ground fleet, adding a third comfort-cruising bus to our popular Mara-Serengeti connection. Your journey between Kenya's Maasai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti is now smoother than ever, allowing you to relax in chilled air conditioning and sink into plush, comfortable seats. Connecting between East Africa’s most iconic parks has never been easier.
International Travels Experience
Air Nominated for Second Consecutive Year!
Following our 2024 win as Domestic Airline of the Year, we are honoured to announce that Regional Air has been nominated once again for the 2025 Global Hospitality & Luxury Awards. This continued recognition reflects our commitment to providing exceptional service across Tanzania, and we are immensely grateful to our guests and partners for their unwavering support.
Do you find Traditional African culture of interest? Nature lover? Hiker? Golf enthusiast? Biker? Welcome to the Mighty Aberdares, for a refreshingly intimate and novel rural experience!
• Explore the Aberdare Ranges peaks; Ol’Satima (highest @ 4001m asl), Table, Seven ponds, Rurimeria- all accessible from Davida Getaway.
• Enjoy a round of golf- ten minutes away from Davida Getaway
• Davida Getaway is located within a farm setting,
• External refreshment bandas in well-manicured gardens.
We were proud to partner with the recent Rwenzori Marathon, offering special fares to connect runners to the spectacular course. A massive kudos goes to our own Aerolink team members who participated, representing the company with incredible heart and determination. We are proud to support this fantastic event which showcases the beauty of Uganda, and we celebrate the inspiring spirit of our team!
BLOSSOMS & BEYOND
Borassus aethiopium
Towering with regal elegance, the Borassus palm is one of the giants of the East African landscape — especially visible in Murchison Falls National Park in uganda, Tarangirie in Tanzania and the Samburu regions in Kenya. Known for its straight trunk and iconic fan-shaped leaves, this palm does more than just make a statement; it’s a cornerstone of ecosystems and human livelihoods alike.
What’s remarkable about Borassus aethiopium is how it times its flowering. Bursting into creamy, fragrant 'flowersticks' high above the canopy, the male trees release long catkin-like flowers that attract bats, bees and beetles. These flowers bloom nocturnally, and in the twilight hours, the palms become buzzing towers of life, linking pollinators to nectar in a synchronised seasonal ballet.
The fruits — large, round, and filled with jelly-like pulp —
The Borassus Palm
are feasted on by elephants, baboons and bush pigs, while the seeds (or “palm nuts”) are often foraged by rodents and even used by local communities in fermented drinks. The trunk’s fibrous interior has been tapped for sweet sap used in palm wine and jaggery, making it as economically important as it is ecologically vital.
Its roots stabilise flood-prone areas, and its leaves are woven into everything from baskets to thatch. Every part of the Borassus palm has a purpose — making it a perfect example of a species that sits at the intersection of biodiversity and cultural use. In a changing climate, trees like this — resilient, generous, and deeply rooted in both ecology and tradition — will matter more than ever.
Image credit: Scamperdale
Image credit: Hollie M'gog
FarmSawa: How AI is Transforming African Agriculture from the Ground Up
From the skies above, Africa’s farmland tells many a story: Patchworks of very different sized fields, some green with maize, some yellow with canola, others with beans, potatoes, cassava and still others with tomatoes or kale. The success of each of these crops depend on a determined family, working with little or no resources except manpower.
They face a large challenge: Smallholder farmers, who produce up to 80% of Kenya’s food, often face pests, unpredictable weather and limited market access.
Enter FarmSawa, a groundbreaking AI-powered agricultural platform that is changing how farming works in Africa. By simply using WhatsApp through text, photo, or voice; farmers can instantly diagnose crop pests and diseases, receive climate-smart farming advice, and even connect directly with buyers and cooperatives.
How it works:
• Farmers save FarmSawa’s number (+254 714 288 890).
• Farmers take a photo of a crop showing signs of stress and send it through.
• FarmSawa’s AI analyses the image and provides an instant diagnosis, plus a recommended treatment.
• The platform also offers real-time market prices, weather updates and farming best practices.
What makes FarmSawa unique is its accessibility. The system works in multiple languages, supports voice interaction for farmers with limited literacy, and is designed to operate even in low-bandwidth areas. This ensures that the benefits of advanced AI are reaching the most remote corners of Africa.
With over 5,000 farmers already using the platform and partnerships with leading research bodies like KALRO, FarmSawa is on track to empower two million farmers by next year. The goal is clear: improve yields, cut post-harvest losses and boost incomes across the continent.
Experience the future of farming
Scan the QR code below to explore FarmSawa and see how innovation is taking root in Africa’s fields.
Triple Crown, endorsed again: The quiet power of accreditation at Stellenbosch Business School
Stellenbosch Business School retains its triple crown of global accreditations, reaffirming its place among the elite group of business schools worldwide.
EQUIS Accreditation; Triple Crown Business Schools; Stellenbosch Business School; International Business School Rankings; AACSB AMBA EQUIS South Africa; Business School Accreditation Africa; Responsible Leadership Education; Executive Development South Africa
In a world of rankings, metrics and institutional prestige, there are few markers of excellence more respected or more quietly transformative than international accreditation.
For Stellenbosch Business School, the recent reaffirmation of its EQUIS accreditation is more than a feather in the cap.
It’s a story of resilience, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of relevance in a global business education landscape. “Accreditation is not a badge – it’s a beacon,” says Yolanda van der Westhuizen, Accreditation Manager at the School. “It signals to the world that our academic programmes, our research, our students and our partnerships are held to the highest international standards.”
THE BIRDS & THE BEES
Bucorvus abyssinicus
With bold red or blue facial skin, dark feathers, and a resonant booming call that echoes across the savannah at dawn, the ground hornbill is impossible to ignore. Native to sub-Saharan Africa’s grasslands and lightly wooded savannahs.
Ground hornbills are cooperative breeders, typically living in small, extended family groups with a dominant breeding pair and several helpers. These helpers; often older offspring; play a critical role in protecting territory, feeding the chicks, and teaching young birds survival skills over years.
Their diet is diverse and opportunistic, including snakes, insects, tortoises, rodents and fruit. By hunting small animals and dispersing seeds through their droppings, ground hornbills shape the food web around them.
But one of the most fascinating; and threatened; aspects of ground hornbill life is their nesting behaviour. They rely on large, old trees or clumps of young borassus palm with natural cavities or deep hollows in cliffs to raise their chicks. These suitable nest sites are increasingly rare due to deforestation, elephant disturbance, land clearance and firewood collection. It can take decades, even centuries, for a tree to become hollow enough to host a nest. And once a tree is gone, it’s not easily replaced.
The Ground Hornbill
A breeding pair may only raise one chick every 6 to 9 years, and without secure nesting options, populations are plummeting in some regions. Conservationists now install artificial nest boxes to support remaining populations, a short-term but very successful fix for a long-term habitat crisis. Protecting hornbill homes protects a whole web of life.
Image credit: Kris Blachowiak
Image credit: Nik Borrow
Educating the Next Generation of Wildlife Guardians
By Nicholas Bii, Conservation Education Officer, Born Free Foundation
In the heart of Kenya's Meru Conservation Area, a transformative educational initiative is nurturing a new generation of conservation leaders. Through seven partner school wildlife clubs, each comprising fifty enthusiastic learners guided by two trained teacher-patrons, we are reshaping how young people understand and interact with their natural environment. This innovative programme goes beyond traditional classroom learning, combining conservation theory with practical life skills to create lasting behavioural change.
The impact of this work is already visible across Meru's communities. Where once, human-wildlife conflicts were common, we now see increased reporting of wildlife sightings to authorities and community-led efforts to protect crucial habitats. The curriculum achieves these results through an engaging mix of methods. Yearly workshops deepen teachers' understanding of conservation, while interactive storytelling sessions help students explore complex human-wildlife relationships. Hands-on eco-trips to protected areas allow learners to compare different ecosystems firsthand, and specially designed conservation games reinforce key concepts in memorable ways.
Perhaps most importantly, the programme provides practical solutions to real-world challenges. Farmers now protect their crops using innovative beehive fences that deter elephants while producing valuable honey. Predator-proof livestock enclosures and solar-powered deterrent lights are reducing nighttime conflicts between wildlife and domestic animals. Regular elephant behaviour workshops help
Most valuable of all is the indigenous knowledge shared by local community members
community members understand and safely interact with these magnificent creatures.
None of this would be possible without our strong network of partners. The Kenya Wildlife Service collaborates on special conservation days and educational competitions. The Wildlife Clubs of Kenya provides essential training for our teacherpatrons, while the Kenya Forest Service offers access to critical forest ecosystems. Most valuable of all is the indigenous knowledge shared by local community members, ensuring our approach remains culturally relevant and sustainable.
As we look to the future, our vision remains clear: to cultivate a generation that values wildlife as an essential part of their heritage and livelihood. Through continued education and community empowerment, we're building a future where conservation and sustainable development go hand in hand.
Next time you fly to Meru, visit Born Free Foundation to see conservation in action! Support our efforts by visiting our website at www. bornfree.org.uk or emailing us at info@bornfree.or.ke.
IT MUST BE TRUE
I HEARD IT ON SAFARI!
Elephants are afraid of bees. It might sound absurd, but it’s scientifically backed. African elephants will actively avoid beehives and the sound of buzzing swarms. Beehive fences are even used as natural, low-cost deterrents to keep elephants from trampling crops – a great example of nature solving human-wildlife conflict. Elephants’ sensitive skin and trunk make them particularly vulnerable to bee stings, especially around their eyes and inside their trunks.
Image credit: Human Elephant Coexistence Toolbox
Flamingos turn pink due to the pigments in their diet, specifically carotenoids found in the algae and crustaceans they consume in the soda lakes of East Africa.
Image Credit: Prasit Chansereekorn
It is not true that lions hate the smell of other predators and avoid it. Actually, lions will often roll in the dung of herbivores which may serve to disguise their scent, particularly when stalking prey. They will definitely be attracted to the smell of other predator poo to see who has been in their area. Far from being repulsed, both are clever tactics in the complex chessboard of the savannah.
Image credit: Leo Vantage
It is not true that wearing camouflage clothing makes you invisible to animals. Many animals don’t see the way humans do. Scent, movement, and sound often matter more than colour or pattern.
The white, or square-lipped rhino was introduced into Kenya from South Africa to support conservation efforts, in total 51 animals (six animals in 1965, 20 in the 1970s, 5 in 1992, and 20 in 1994; six of the latter individuals died due to disease) (Rookmaaker 1998). The population has grown rapidly and now many assume that all along the white rhino was found here.
Image Credit: Paulo Santos
SMALL & SPECIAL
The Striped Ghost of the Termite Highways: The Aardwolf
By Hollie M’gog
In the pre-dawn darkness of East Africa's grasslands, a small striped creature moves like a shadow with substance. Smaller than a hyena but unmistakably related, the aardwolf (Proteles cristatus) emerges from its burrow (often an aardvark burrow or expanded spring hare tunnel) with the focused intensity of a creature on a very specific mission. This is no scavenger prowling for carrion, no bone-crusher following migrating herds. This striped phantom of the savannah has evolved for something far more specialised: a nightly feast of termites, although should an egg or two be stumbled upon, or a mouse caught or even a carcass found then they are opportunistic … wouldn’t you be?
The aardwolf, literally "earth wolf" in Afrikaans, represents one of nature's most remarkable dietary specialisations. The aardwolf rarely eats meat. Instead, aardwolves survive on a diet almost entirely composed of termites. While its
spotted hyena cousins are famous for their bone-crushing jaws and raucous clan dynamics, the aardwolf has chosen a quieter path. It is a nocturnal social termite hunting carnivore that lives in secretive solitude.
There are only two know population spreads: In East Africa, they eat Trinervitermes bettonianus, and in southern Africa, they eat T. trinervoides. Their technique consists of licking them off the ground as opposed to the aardvark, which digs into the mound (landscape architects). Their precision is remarkable and means the aardwolf is a living termite specialist. Their unique adaptation for this diet is a lengthy, adhesive tongue used to deftly extract insects from their nests or off their routes.
Watch an aardwolf, I’ve only ever seen two, at work and you'll witness one of Africa's most underrated hunting
spectacles. Moving methodically across the grassland, nose close to the ground, it follows invisible termite highways with the dedication of a truffle hunter. A single aardwolf can consume up to 250,000 termites in one night, yet it moves with such delicate precision that it rarely disturbs the termite mounds themselves.
In one of my sightings, alates were spewing from the ground like a thermal jet, birds, mongooses, a genet and one aardwolf were catching as many as they could, jumping acrobatically, wings falling from their mouths.
The aardwolf's relationship with its habitat is intimately tied to these termite populations. These secretive and entirely harmless carnivores appear to have a wide habitat tolerance with a preference for semi-arid, open plains, savannahs and grasslands, but their distribution is ultimately dictated by termite availability – and that means places where pesticides are not used.
But perhaps the most fascinating aspect of aardwolf behaviour is their complex social chemistry. Aardwolves are monogamous and form pairs, and these pairs maintain territories through an elaborate system scent "pasting" with black and sticky anal gland secretions by both males and females. If their territory is infringed upon by another aardwolf, they will chase the intruder away for up to 400 m or to the border. During the breeding season, this territorial behaviour intensifies dramatically.
The aardwolf's vocal repertoire is equally remarkable. They also use a range of verbal cues, particularly when they're upset, including purrs, whines, clicks, growls,
snarls, barks, squeals and clucks. For such a secretive animal, aardwolves possess a surprisingly rich vocabulary.
Their future, like that of many specialised species, is tied to the health of their ecosystem. Their termite-based diet and non-confrontational behaviour mean they rarely clash with humans, and thus are not heavily persecuted. However, they remain vulnerable to habitat loss and any threats to termite populations (like pesticide overuse or significant environmental changes).
The Specialist's Toolkit Despite being a member of the hyena family, the aardwolf has evolved teeth perfectly suited for its insectivorous lifestyle. Its molars are reduced to simple pegs, useless for crushing bones but perfect for holding struggling termites. The powerful jaw muscles of other hyenas have been replaced with a long, sticky tongue that can extend up to 30 centimetres — longer than the animal's entire skull.
Bonus Quirk: Baby aardwolves learn to scent-mark by practising on their parents' territorial markers. Cubs will carefully position themselves over adult scent marks and add their own contribution, learning the complex chemical language that will govern their adult lives. It's essentially territorial finishing school, taught through scent.
Image credit: Rob Cadd
Aardwolf at night.
Eastern Aardwolf
Image credit: Chris Hani
Rediscover the Night Sky at Samburu Sopa Lodge
In an age where light pollution clouds our skies and unchecked development threatens our natural heritage, the stars - once a source of wonder, navigation and cultural storytelling are fast disappearing from view. Yet, amidst Kenya’s evolving tourism landscape, a new frontier is emerging: one that uplifts local communities and redefines responsible travel.
Set against Samburu’s pristine, unpolluted dark skies, this visionary initiative goes beyond stargazing. It celebrates nature’s forgotten wonders, commits to sustainable tourism, and preserves indigenous knowledge. This launch marks a bold step towards diversifying Kenya’s tourism beyond traditional safaris, while empowering the Samburu community through cultural exchange, education and economic opportunity. It also aims to elevate the visibility of responsible tourism initiatives across Africa and beyond.
Introducing Astro-Tourism at Samburu Sopa Lodge
Did you know the Milky Way contains over 100 billion stars? Our solar system is just a tiny speck in this vast cosmic ocean. Imagine gazing at this spectacular night sky, enriched by the rich cultural narratives of the Samburu people. Welcome to Astro-Tourism at Samburu Sopa Lodge - where the magic of the universe meets the vibrant traditions of the local culture.
What is Astro-Tourism?
Astro-tourism is an immersive experience that invites travellers
and photographers to explore the night sky while engaging with the science and stories behind celestial phenomena. At Samburu Sopa Lodge, we aim to make the cosmos accessible and fascinating
for everyone, whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice. It is about connecting with the universe in an enlightening and entertaining way.
Blending Tradition with Astronomy
Our unique approach will integrate the rich cultural heritage of the Samburu people where they gather around a bonfire for celestial storytelling, as our naturalists share captivating tales about the stars and their significance in Samburu culture. This fusion of tradition and science will enrich the understanding of the universe while celebrating local customs.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability lies at the heart of our Astro-tourism initiative. We embrace eco-friendly practices that honour the environment and support local communities. By promoting responsible tourism, we ensure that our guests enjoy the night sky’s beauty without compromising the integrity of our natural surroundings.
Join Us for Cosmic Memories
Pack your curiosity and sense of wonder for an unforgettable Astro-tourism journey at Samburu Sopa Lodge. Whether you are exploring the stars, learning about the cosmos, or connecting with local culture, you will create memories that last a lifetime. Let’s embark on this celestial adventure together and discover the universe’s wonders in a truly unique and meaningful way.
Tucked away on the edge of one of Kenya’s most unexplored wilderness areas, Rhino River Camp offers an enchanting escape into the heart of Meru National Park. With its blend of raw nature, serenity, and style, this hidden gem is ideal for those seeking an authentic safari experience far from the crowds.
Meru National Park is famed for its rich wildlife, lush landscapes, and historical ties to Elsa the lioness of Born Free fame. Despite its legendary status, it remains blissfully off the beaten path — making it a perfect choice for seasoned safari-goers or anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature.
Rhino River Camp is set on 80 acres of privately owned wilderness along the banks of the Kindani River, offering a peaceful haven with just a handful of beautifully designed rooms that blend modern comfort with eco-conscious architecture. From your tented suite, wake up to the soothing sounds of the river, and enjoy game drives, guided walks, and sundowners with panoramic views over the park. Expect sightings of rhinos, elephants, lions, leopards, and an abundance of birdlife.
Getting there is easier than ever. The most convenient and scenic route is
to fly with Airkenya, which operates scheduled flights to Meru National Park. This short flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport saves you from the long drive and lands you right at the doorstep of adventure. The safari begins the moment you land.
The camp also features a tranquil swimming pool, spa treatments upon request, and locally inspired cuisine made from fresh ingredients. Whether you're lounging by the pool, enjoying a candlelit dinner under the stars, or heading out for a thrilling drive through the wild, Rhino River
Camp promises an unforgettable stay.
Perfect for couples, families or solo travelers looking for something unique, Rhino River Camp offers the rare chance to experience Kenya’s wilderness in comfort, without the crowds.
Ready to explore Meru? Let Airkenya take you there. Rhino River Camp is waiting.
Contact us at book@gamewatchers. co.ke to book your next safari.
A Symphony of Wings: Discovering Kenya's Avian Paradise
By Ulrich Oberprieler of Ulrich Ecoventures South Africa
Kenya. The name conjures images of vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, the elephants, the wildebeest, the lions, the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya piercing the azure sky, and the vibrant cultures of its people. Beyond the iconic landscapes and majestic mammals, Kenya harbours another treasure trove of biodiversity: its birds. With over 1,100 recorded species, Kenya is a veritable avian paradise, a symphony of wings that captivates birders from around the globe.
From the moment you step off the plane, you are greeted by a chorus of unfamiliar calls, a kaleidoscope of colours flitting through the trees. The ubiquitous Superb Starling, with its iridescent plumage, struts confidently across the airport grounds, while the Hadada Ibis, a large, ground-dwelling bird, probes the grassy verges with its long, curved bill. Even in the bustling capital city of Nairobi, nature is never far away. The vast breeding colony of Marabou Storks cannot be missed driving from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport into the city. Nairobi National Park, a stone's throw from the city centre, boasts over 500 bird species, including the striking Secretarybird, the Long-tailed Fiscal, the secretive Dark-capped Yellow Warbler and the pretty Hildebrandt’s Spurfowl.
To truly immerse yourself in Kenya's avian wonders, you must venture beyond the city limits, into the diverse habitats that make this country a birder's dream. The acacia-dotted plains of the Maasai Mara, home to
the Great Migration, also provide a haven for a plethora of bird species. Here, you can spot the Lilac-breasted Roller, with its vibrant blue, lilac and pink plumage, perched atop an acacia tree, or the Kori Bustard, Africa's largest flying bird, strutting proudly across the open plains. Also inhabiting the open savannah is the Southern Ground Hornbill and various raptors, from Martial Eagles to Pygmy Falcons
As you journey further afield, you'll encounter a tapestry of different landscapes, each with its unique avian inhabitants. The lush forests of Kakamega, in western Kenya, are a stronghold for rare and endemic species. The shimmering waters of Lake Elementaita, a soda lake in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, attract vast flocks of flamingos, painting the shoreline in a sea of pink. The rugged slopes of Mount Kenya, the second highest peak in Africa, provide a home for high-altitude specialists.
Image credit: Leila Boujnane
Kenya's avian diversity is not just about numbers; it's about the sheer variety of forms, behaviours and ecological roles that birds play. From the tiny, jewel-like sunbirds that flit from flower to flower, to the massive vultures that soar effortlessly overhead, to the colourful turacos, each species has its own unique story to tell. The Long-crested Eagle, distinguished by its crest and piercing gaze, hunts small mammals from a perch high in the canopy.
The Grey-headed Kingfisher, with its bright blue plumage and powerful bill, dives into rivers and lakes, not to snatch fish from the water, but to take a brief bath. He is an insect-eater.
The Hamerkop, a large, wading bird with a hammer-shaped head, builds massive nests. The pair breeds inside the hollow nest, but other birds such as Egyptian Geese or Verreaux’s Eagle-Owls, may lay their eggs on top.
Birding in Kenya is not just a passive activity; it's an immersive experience that engages all your senses. The sights, sounds, and even smells of the African savannah create an unforgettable backdrop for your avian encounters. As you scan the horizon for a glimpse of a rare species, you'll find yourself drawn
into the rhythm of the natural world, attuned to the subtle cues that reveal the presence of birds. A rustle in the undergrowth, a flash of colour in the trees, a distinctive call echoing through the air – these are the clues that lead you to discover the hidden treasures of Kenya's avian paradise.
To make the most of your birdwatching adventure in Kenya, it's essential to be prepared. A good pair of binoculars is a must, allowing you to get a close-up view of even the most distant birds. A field guide will help you identify the species you encounter and learn more about their habits and habitats. A sense of patience and perseverance is essential, as some birds may be elusive and require time and effort to find.
Whether you're a seasoned birder or a novice enthusiast, Kenya has something to offer everyone. The sheer abundance of birds, the diversity of habitats and the stunning scenery make it a truly unforgettable destination. So, pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and prepare to be amazed by the symphony of wings that awaits you in Kenya's avian paradise.
Image credit: William Warby
Image credit: Mwandwe Chileshe
Image credit: Hongbin
Here are some of the best birdwatching spots in Kenya:
• Amboseli National Park: This park offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and is home to a large variety of birds. Waterbirds, such as ducks and waders, are common. The Yellow-necked Spurfowl is easily seen, while its Red-necked counterpart prefers denser growth.
• Mount Kenya National Park: The rugged slopes of Mount Kenya provide a home for high-altitude specialists, like Jackson’s Francolin, the Abyssinian Ground-Thrush and the Abbott's Starling.
• Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve: This coastal forest is home to several endemic bird species, including the Sokoke Scops Owl and the Clarke's Weaver. More common are Silvery-cheeked Hornbill and Crested Guineafowl. Even Mangrove Kingfisher occur here.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve and conservancies: Well-known for its mammalian migrations, Maasai Mara does not disappoint regarding its birds. See a Kori Bustard with Northen Carmine Bee-eaters catching a ride on its back. Swahili Sparrows, Schalow’s Turaco, Rufous-bellied Heron and Silverbird may be seen.
• Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks: Known for their large elephant populations and diverse birdlife, these parks feature species such as the Foxy Lark, Golden Pipit and the Taita Fiscal.
• Samburu National Reserve: Located in Kenya's northern region, it is home to unique bird species like the Vulturine Guineafowl, the Somali Ostrich and Somali Bee-eater.
• Watamu Marine National Park: Along the coast, this park offers opportunities to spot seabirds such as the Bridled Tern and the
Lesser Crested Tern. Golden Palm Weavers may flash in the riverine growth.
• Meru National Park: This park offers a variety of habitats, from riverine forests to open grasslands, making it home to species such as the Red-bellied Parrot and the Eastern Chanting Goshawk. The
White-headed Buffalo-Weaver is a colourful highlight.
• Borana Wildlife Conservancy: Located in the Laikipia region, this conservancy is a haven for birdwatchers, featuring species like Slate-coloured Boubou in the thickets, as well as both Common and Somali Ostriches on the plains.
Tips for birdwatching in Kenya:
• Best time to visit: Birding in Kenya is always good. During the dry season (June to October) the vegetation is less dense, and birds are easier to spot. From September to April, however, Kenya is visited by various European or North African birds. The resident birds also breed during this time: their breeding plumage and calls attract attention.
• What to bring: A good pair of binoculars, a field guide, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent are essential.
• Hire a guide: A local birding guide can help you find the best spots
and identify the species you encounter.
• Be patient: Some birds can be elusive and require time and effort to find.
• Respect the environment: Do not disturb nests or young birds and do not litter.
Birdwatching is a rewarding and enriching activity that allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the avian world. In Kenya, you'll have the opportunity to witness some of the most spectacular birdlife on the planet, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Image credit: Michael Starkie
Image credit: Hongbin
Meru National Park and Elsa’s Kopje: A Jewel of Natural Beauty and Historical Significance
By Ulrich Oberprieler of Ulrich Ecoventures South Africa
Kenya's Meru National Park is a mesmerising expanse of wilderness that captivates the imagination and the soul. Located in the heart of Kenya, this park is a sanctuary for an extraordinary array of flora and fauna and it holds a special place in the nation's history. Meru’s lower visitor density means that one rarely encounters another vehicle, offering the chance to experience the raw beauty of Kenya's natural heritage.
Meru National Park in central Kenya spans approximately 870 km2 of varied landscapes, including
savannahs, woodlands, open grasslands and swamps. The park is bordered by the Tana River to the south and the Nyambene Hills to the north, creating a diverse range of habitats that support an incredible array of wildlife. The park's terrain is punctuated with rivers and streams, which provide lifeblood to the verdant vegetation and support a myriad of animals, both big and small. The park's unspoiled wilderness is a testament to the enduring allure of the African landscape, where nature's grandeur is on full display.
I entered the park via the Murera Main Gate, staffed by friendly and efficient officials. A drive of about an hour took me to Elewana Elsa’s Kopje, a luxurious lodge. A ‘kopje’ is a rocky outcrop or hill – and what a kopje this is! The lodge blends seamlessly into the hillside, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Each cottage is designed with comfort and luxury in mind, incorporating granite boulders and even living trees into its architecture. It features spacious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms and private verandahs from where one
Image credit: Elsas Kopje
may spot elephants or giraffe in the distance or familiarise oneself with various bird species up close. The lodge is named after Elsa, the lioness made famous by Joy Adamson's 1960 book and subsequent film ‘Born Free’. Joy and George Adamson frequently visited this spot with Elsa, making it a place of historical and sentimental significance. The lodge’s foyer is decorated with various photographs of Elsa and the Adamsons, several of Joy’s personal belongings as well as a book signed by Sir David Attenborough after visiting the Adamsons in September 1960. What a fascinating link to this famous environmentalist who recently celebrated his 99th birthday!
The welcome by the lodge's general manager, Grace Leonard Waithaka, was warm-hearted. She gave me captivating insights into the lodge, the park and the country over the next three days. The amenities include a stunning infinity pool, an open-air bar and a gourmet restaurant that serves delicious cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. I enjoyed personalised service and attention
to detail, making my stay at Elsa's Kopje truly unforgettable. Numerous bush hyrax enthralled me with their sure-footedness, scampering over the boulders. The avian diversity was punctuated by the sighting of a shikra, a small hawk, patiently perched in a tree. The lodge organises guided game drives, bush walks and cultural visits, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the magic of Meru National Park.
I had the privilege of being taken on game drives by head guide Mohamed Boru. He communicated his immense knowledge of the park, its biodiversity and conservation role in a calm, quiet way. I shared the vehicle with Kazue Morozumi, a visitor from Japan. As this was her first visit to Kenya, she was amazed by the incredible variety of wildlife. On the one hand Mohamed ensured that she had sufficient time to familiarise herself with more common species such
Dinner Tables Evening. PHOTOS: Elsas Kopje
as African buffalo and helmeted guineafowl, yet he also put in extraordinary effort to find gerenuk, a unique antelope I particularly wanted to spot. The lesser kudu was another highlight. Smaller that its cousin, the greater kudu, this is a truly handsome antelope. The male is distinguished by its spirally curled horns, but both sexes are beautifully striped and move with grace.
Meru National Park is known for its programme to conserve both White and Black Rhinos. These species are kept in a demarcated section of the park only. An ingeniously designed barrier allows smaller animals and even elephants to move freely between this Rhino Sanctuary and the rest of the park but confines the rhinos to an area where they can be monitored closely. As expected, the more secretive black rhino eluded us, but we obtained spectacular views of its square-lipped relative.
Another discreet animal of Meru is the naked mole-rat. The social behaviour of this small burrowing mammal is fascinating, but our sightings were limited to the volcano-shaped mounds next to roads. Game drives through the park reveal an array of mammals, including elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards and cheetahs.
The park is also home to more elusive species such as the endangered Grevy's zebra.
Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the park's avian diversity, with over 300 bird species recorded. Notable birds seen during my visit include steppe, tawny, Wahlberg’s and long-crested eagle, kori and white-bellied bustard, four lapwing species, red-bellied parrot, pink-breasted lark and long-tailed fiscal. The park's wetlands and riverbanks are particularly vibrant, attracting flocks of waterfowl and waders. The golden-breasted starling and golden palm weaver provide splashes of intense colour.
Meru National Park's botanical treasures are equally impressive. The riverine forests are lush with sycamore figs and fever trees, while the savannahs are dotted with commiphoras and acacias. The long-stemmed doum palms cannot be overlooked and indicate a reservoir of ground water.
During Kenya's struggle for independence the dense patches of vegetation and rugged terrain provided cover for freedom fighters, who utilised its natural landscape to evade colonial forces and organise
their resistance. Field Marshall Musa Mwariama was a leader in the Meru region, playing a crucial role in the Mau Mau uprising. His hideout within Meru National Park is now a historical site, standing as a symbol of the nation's hard-won liberty and the sacrifices made.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) manages Meru National Park. KWS is dedicated to protecting Kenya's wildlife and natural habitats, and its work in Meru is a shining example of successful conservation initiatives. The park faced significant challenges in the past, including poaching and habitat degradation, but KWS's tireless efforts have led to remarkable recoveries.
Meru National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical significance, and conservation success. From its diverse habitats and luxurious accommodations at Elsa’s Kopje to the incredible biodiversity and pivotal role in Kenya's fight for freedom, Meru offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. The ongoing efforts of the Kenya Wildlife Service ensure that this magnificent park remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a testament to the enduring spirit of conservation.
From L-R: White Rhinoceros; Reticulated Giraffe; Bush Hyrax. PHOTOS: Ulrich Oberprieler
Shamba Lodge Your East African Bridge to Tanzania's Wonders
A proud Kenyan, you've been to the Mara time and time again. But across the border lies the Serengeti — many times larger, far more wild. And so you've planned a trip: perhaps for that wedding anniversary or milestone birthday, maybe a long-awaited family reunion. The vision is perfect — drive to Arusha, fly into the Serengeti, then drive back through the legendary circuit of Ngorongoro, Manyara, and Tarangire. As you cross into Tanzania and continue just 10km past Namanga, Shamba Lodge emerges as the perfect bridge between our two nations; a truly lovely retreat that transforms your cross-border journey into something extraordinary.
For East African travellers, particularly those of us driving from Kenya,
By Hollie M’gog
Shamba Lodge offers something invaluable: a beautiful sanctuary where you can truly settle in and savour the anticipation of your Tanzanian adventure. Nestled just 7.5km from Arusha Airport, this is where you'll want to spend your first and last nights in Tanzania — relaxing in authentic log cabins, enjoying the stunning views, either preparing for the journey ahead or recounting the adventures just had. The fact that you can safely leave your vehicle here while you fly into the Serengeti is simply an added convenience to an already perfect location.
Where Two Nations Meet
As you arrive from your drive south, you'll immediately sense the profound shift from Kenya's familiar rhythms to Tanzania's unique tranquility. Perched atop a sloping hill, the lodge offers stunning valley views that stretch endlessly westward into the agricultural part of Tanzania. From your first-floor balcony, drink in these breathtaking vistas: to the east, the majestic Mount Meru rises dramatically to 4,500 meters, while westward, spectacular sunsets paint the sky over green pastures in the rains and flat, dusty plains in the dry season.
The landscape tells a story of East Africa's gentle agricultural rhythm, with rich, deep soil ready for tilling and the distant, barely audible hum of an occasional tractor. The air is wonderfully relaxed, filled with the soothing sounds of cows bellowing, distant donkeys, and the faint bark of a faraway dog. This is a setting of profound peace where you might spot a few people wandering through the countryside in quiet, unhurried fashion.
A Runner's Paradise
For those of us who love to explore on foot, the rural roads surrounding Shamba Lodge offer something truly special: miles and miles of perfect terrain for cross-country running. The quiet country roads wind through the fields and small villages, offering runners the freedom to explore the beautiful borderlands between our two nations. Whether you prefer an early morning run with Mount Meru as your backdrop or an evening jog, you'll find endless routes that showcase the best of rural Tanzania's natural beauty.
The rural roads surrounding the lodge aren't just perfect for running; they're ideal for leisurely walks too, cycling, or simply exploring the countryside that represents the best of East African rural life. Miles and miles of quiet paths wind through farmland and villages, offering authentic glimpses into Tanzanian daily life that you'd never experience from a tour bus.
Thoughtfully Designed Comfort
Shamba Lodge radiates what guests consistently describe as
a "really good vibe" and a "really good feeling." The lodge features four private, chalet-style cabins, each "done beautifully" and crafted entirely of sustainably sourced eucalyptus wood. These spacious accommodations can comfortably sleep up to six guests, making them perfect for families or groups of friends making the journey together from Kenya.
The "beautifully friendly" staff, described as an "excellent team," ensure a warm welcome that bridges
any cultural transitions. Each cabin boasts very good architecture and interior design, with very comfortable beds protected by perfectly designed mosquito nets (a rare and muchappreciated detail for East African travellers). You'll find a beautifully self-contained kitchen complete with microwave, a highly functional bathroom, and a "really comfy" sitting room adorned with fascinating coffee table books covering diverse topics from log cabins to Mount Kilimanjaro and local tribes.
Guests enjoy the luxury of two balconies, upper and lower, each offering different perspectives of the stunning Tanzanian landscape. A particular highlight is the plunge pool out front, perfect for refreshing dips after your drive or run. For those staying in the house on the far edge, there's the unique indulgence of running a hot bath, then leaping into the cool plunge pool before returning to the warmth of the tub. Even the chairs deserve mention, providing comfortable back support unlike typical canvas deck chairs, while thoughtful touches like a clever little offset washing line on the bottom deck show the attention to detail throughout.
Your Gateway to Tanzania
The lodge offers excellent communal facilities, including a beautiful lounge and restaurant open daily from 8am to 9pm, where guests consistently rave about the "very good" cuisine, perfect for sampling Tanzanian flavours before your safari adventure. For those seeking a closer connection with nature, there's also the option of camping in your own tents.
Shamba Lodge serves as more than just accommodation: It's a full-service gateway designed with East African travellers in mind. The staff can arrange safari bookings, airport transfers, day activities, Kilimanjaro treks and visits to National Parks. Should you wish to stay more nights, perhaps a writing retreat, the need to get a project done, then numerous restaurants and attractions lie within an 8km radius, including Artisan Coffee and Pâtissier, The Baobab Restaurant and Udare Safari.
Sustainable East African Hospitality
The lodge demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainable practices, reflecting the responsible
tourism that East Africa deserves. All construction wood is eucalyptus, a sustainable choice, while an "incredible water storage tank" collects rainwater from all roofs, ensuring independence from national water supplies during the rainy season. Power comes from both solar and mains electricity, guaranteeing reliable operation.
With its "Luxury Quaint" hotel style, excellent service, and nightly rates ranging from $120-220, Shamba Lodge has earned an outstanding 5.0 out of 5 bubbles rating on Tripadvisor, consistently receiving great reviews and earning a Travelers' Choice award.
This truly is an "ideal place" for East African travellers — a bridge that connects our beautiful region while respecting the unique character of each nation. Here, you can settle back with a "beautiful Serengeti beer," soak in the panoramic views, and let the gentle rhythm of rural Tanzania wash over you as you prepare for adventures ahead or savour peaceful respite after your travels. At Shamba Lodge, your East African journey becomes seamless, sustainable, and simply unforgettable.
Living the Dream Siringit Serengeti Camp
By Hollie M’gog
These days we all seem to be chasing a high, and thinking that high comes with drama and adventures and Instagram reels and stories. But maybe just sitting still and being invisible as the wildlife lives their own stories and reels about you is something more immersive, more of a story to write home about. My two-night stay at Siringit Serengeti Camp taught me this profound truth in the most transformative way possible. Nestled in the beating heart of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, this extraordinary sanctuary doesn't just promise you'll "Live the Dream" — it delivers an experience so quietly magical, so utterly absorbing, that it redefines what luxury in the wilderness can be.
The journey itself began with Regional Air's incredible and efficient link from Lake Manyara to Seronera, the little aircraft having already carried others from Arusha earlier that morning. There's something profoundly
moving about this small plane; a true David against Goliath; conquering the vast African landscape that once took weeks to traverse by ox-cart. What our ancestors would have endured for months, this nimble aircraft accomplished in a mere 57 minutes, giving me a bird's-eye view of the endless savannah stretching below like a living tapestry. From above, I could see the very wilderness I was about to enter, the scattered acacia trees looking like tiny umbrellas dotting an infinite golden canvas, and I felt the first stirrings of what would become a completely transformative experience.
I realised that I was simply not prepared for what awaited me on the Serengeti plains just kilometres from the main Seronera airstrip - What appeared as an unassuming exterior from the outside suddenly revealed itself as a portal to pure African enchantment. The transformation was instantaneous and breathtaking:
a world where primal wilderness and sublime comfort danced together in perfect harmony, and I was about to become part of that dance.
Siringit Serengeti Camp embraced me with its deliberately "gorgeous" and "tiny" essence, this award-winning haven felt like discovering my own secret patch of Africa. With only ten exclusive luxury canvas rooms, one of them family, the camp created an atmosphere so private, so secluded, that I felt like I'd found a place that existed just for me. The moment the radiant staff greeted me, I understood that this wasn't just hospitality, it was a homecoming. The "beautiful vibe of canvas, small, homely and personal" enveloped me immediately, creating an instant sense of belonging.
To call my accommodation a "tent on a deck" felt almost insulting to its grandeur. As I stepped inside, I realized this was a luxurious hotel suite that happened to be crafted in canvas. A "perfectly appointed
Honeymoon Tent
room" designed for an untamed immersive experience that would bring me breathtakingly close to the incredible wildlife beyond my walls. The expansive space embraced me with thoughtful design for comfort and wonder. My generous bathroom featured a steaming hot solar-powered shower, his and her sinks … wilderness luxury at its finest. The interior design flowed like poetry through movement and space. My big double bed looked right out onto the savannah and was surrounded by ample space, complemented by a comfortable coffee table, sofa and even a private desk area. My own intimate lounge within the tent!
What truly stole my breath was stepping onto my private verandah and being confronted with exactly "the Africa I had dreamed of".
Gracefully positioned under a canopy of majestic Tortillas Acacia trees, my tent offered uninterrupted panoramic views of the vast, endless Serengeti horizons. My private deck became my personal theatre to the greatest show on earth.
During my morning tea on the deck, a delightful commotion erupted just off
my verandah. The dwarf mongooses had emerged and I watched in absolute enchantment as they tumbled over each other in the most endearing display of wild joy. They were so close I could hear their soft chittering calls, completely unaware of my presence. The closeness to nature here wasn't just proximity — it was complete immersion, and I felt like I was being granted a private audience with the wild.
This camp sits "in the middle of the Serengeti savannah, and really feels like it is in the middle of nowhere" describe two guests. The wild was literally on my doorstep but it was as I sipped a cold Whitecap
one evening that I experienced something truly extraordinary. It was dusk and the golden light painted the endless plains, when movement caught my eye. A hyena emerged from the scattered acacia, moving with purpose and intensity just metres from where I sat. I held my breath, completely mesmerised. She walked past invisible me, utterly focused on a reedbuck it and three others were pursuing. This primal drama unfolded just beyond my deck. The reedbuck darted away, the hyena-three followed. Heart pounding, I had just witnessed raw and authentic predation – on my own. It redefined what I thought was possible on a safari.
Camp view over the vast Serengeti plains
Lounge
For those who embrace authentic wilderness, the night-time symphony was absolutely thrilling. The spine-tingling sounds of "lion and hyena all around my tent" (guestbook entry) created an unforgettable reminder that I wasn't just visiting the wild — I was living within it. In no camp have I I felt more connected to the natural world than here. The sight of intensely proud marabou storks around the camp added yet another layer to my stay. I found myself constantly reaching for my camera, then putting it down again, wanting to simply absorb these moments with my own eyes.
Dining at Siringit was far beyond what I expected; consistently excellent, thoughtful and logistically astonishing. Every meal, from artisanal cold breakfasts to elegant, daily-changing European lunches and dinners, was a testament to detail and care. What stood out most was how effortlessly the team catered to dietary needs, even producing top-notch vegan dishes without prior notice. Much of this culinary magic is thanks to Michelin-starred chef Axel Janssens, who relocated from Belgium to Tanzania to craft Siringit’s menus; transforming every meal into a celebration that I looked forward to with genuine excitement.
Each evening, as the African sun began its descent, Siringit transformed into something even more magical. The communal areas, soon-to-beupgraded luxury tents styled as elegant lounge and dining spaces; were "beautifully lit" showcasing
appealing layouts and interior décor. Through these we walked to the pre-dinner cocktail experience mingling with others around the fire pit, endless plains behind and a sky erupted in sunset colours.
The staff at Siringit Serengeti Camp were the luminous heart of my extraordinary experience. They were universally "incredible", "lovely", and "always very friendly and accommodating", consistently going "above and beyond" to ensure my every wish was fulfilled. There was professional leadership and fantastic butler service, the team anticipated my needs with genuine warmth
and pleasure. Being named Africa's Leading Luxury Tented Safari Camp for three consecutive years by the World Travel Awards is richly deserved recognition for what I experienced as a treasure beyond measure, a truly "one-of-a-kind experience" that ranks among the most magnificent places on Earth.
If you seek that transcendent extra element to elevate an unforgettable Serengeti safari, this intimate luxury camp is absolutely it. This is where you don't just visit Africa; you become part of its soul, where you genuinely and completely "Live the Dream." I know I did.
Family tent
Tarangire Safari Lodge: Stay a While
By Hollie M’gog
Tarangire Safari Lodge is the type of place where you'll catch the trees whispering to each other in the quiet times, the baobabs especially. They speak in creaks and sighs, their ancient voices carrying stories that span centuries.
"Two nights," murmurs the baobab that leans slightly west, his heavy limbs silhouetted against the golden sky, "these tourists, they come, they eat, they drive about, they sleep ... and then they're gone before we've even properly introduced ourselves." His older companion, the baobab
above the lodge pool, lets out a low creak through her hollow trunk. "Some have no time to look up, not once during their entire stay. The dik-dik couple outside Tent Five? Completely ignored, they feel invisible."
These two ginormous baobabs have been here for centuries, standing guard between the A-frame tents of the much younger Tarangire Safari Lodge. She watches over the pool and its waterfall, where vervet monkeys are inclined to steal the cocktail accoutrements and bats fly
low for an evening dip. He surveys the somewhat hidden sunset deck, where, if a guest lingers long enough, silence becomes a sound in its own right. Below them both, the Tarangire River twists its way through the valley: a reflective ribbon in the dry season, where buffalo and elephant wade ankle-deep across, and a fast torrent in the rains, bedecked and bedazzled with birds and busy with secrets.
Guests often ask about them; the baobabs, that is; their size, their age, their scars – in fact Brenden’s mother
Image credit: Brenden Simonson
even made a special signboard to answer that question. Most visitors don't stay long enough to hear the real stories whispered at dusk when the monkeys settle, or at 3 a.m. when the lions call from somewhere just beyond the tents. They miss the tales hidden in claw marks on the baobab bark or the fruit husks crushed beneath soft elephant feet.
Still, these baobabs remember everything. They will always remember, this is after all their home, where they were born and where they will die.
These camp baobabs remember Sophie and Brenden, the children raised in the shade of their branches, lucky souls who climbed the termite mounds and swam in the sandy shallows of the river when no guests (or crocodiles) were watching. That was a long time ago now. Sophie has moved on; the wind took her to other places; but Brenden stayed. He has grown up into a guide of the land, the one who leads curious travellers down the river in canoes, whose sketches became the photographs that hang on the lodge walls. He leads bush walks, teaches guests to read tracks in the dust like lines
of poetry. Amazed tourists say he knows everything about this place, but the baobabs disagree.
"We helped to raise him," says the poolside tree, with pride creaking through her voice, "Sophie too. But neither knows how many elephants have scratched themselves on my trunk, or how many rainy seasons I've watched pass."
"They are too young still," comes the answer from across the camp, patient as only ancient trees can be. These baobabs have held leopards in their branches, sometimes sadly cradling a dead impala in the nook. They've felt hyenas circle, drooling and frustrated, and watched porcupines shuffle by, indifferent to the drama. They've hosted monkeys (and baboons) to sleep in their embrace, and nested hornbills in their cavities. They've absorbed the whispering memories of campfire conversations, of children pressing their palms against the bark and asking, "How old are you really?"
There are other baobabs here, scattered through the lodge grounds and the wider park, but none like these two, none so well-positioned
to witness what guests miss when they treat the lodge as a brief stopover instead of a destination worth savouring.
How many of those hurried tourists have really noticed the doum palms, one of Africa's only branching palms, rising proud between the baobabs down at the river? Those who just pass through miss how the elephants move differently here, slower, less bothered, wandering between the tents like they belong . . . because they do belong.
And sometimes, not that rarely either, the lions make a kill inside the camp itself, once or twice even a buffalo. The baobabs say nothing when this happens. They've seen worse. They've seen everything.
There's something about Tarangire Safari Lodge that asks you to slow down (unless you're racing a monkey to the breakfast table!) It might be the way the light hangs in the late afternoon, or how the river shifts its mood with the season. It might be those damn monkeys, who show no respect for your schedule, or the dik-diks who appear when you're not trying to see them. More likely, it's the
architectural simplicity of stillness: canvas tents with thatched roofs, mesh windows open to birdsong, verandahs that feel like theatre boxes for the greatest show on earth.
From these tents, you can watch giraffes step through the grass like dancers, see buffalo rolling in the river become living sculptures, or simply sit with a book and forget to turn the page. There are also stone-built bungalows shaped like traditional Maasai homes, a little removed, a little quieter, designed for families or guests who need more space to do less.
Everything here is powered by the sun; from the hot water in your shower to the light above your bed; there is electricity, yes, but no noise, no hum of generators. Just the wind and the guineafowl and maybe, if you're lucky, the rustle of a genet tail as it disappears into the roof.
Guests come from all over the world to this mid-range and large lodge, and so many of these international visitors often stay just two nights. “Imagine coming all that way; to the greatest park in East Africa for just two nights!”
"Long enough to spot a lion," scoffs the west-facing baobab, "but not nearly long enough to hear it roar, to understand its language."
These guests may remember their game drives, at least parts of them, perhaps they'll even remember the leopard sprawled across a high branch, her kill lodged firmly beside her – only because of their photos though.
"But," murmurs the largest baobab beside the pool, her voice rustling with ancient wisdom, "I bet they'll forget the way the martial eagle paused above the river, or how the
flowers beneath that acacia there bloomed and wilted in a single night. They'll miss the story told not in sightings, but in returnings."
The bush reveals itself slowly, deliberately. The baobabs know this. Brenden and Annette know it too.
There's a rhythm here, if you stay long enough to fall into it: Morning hibiscus tea on the deck, a walk
with Brenden to learn which paths elephants prefer, a mid-morning drive before a scrumptious lunch and an afternoon nap while mongooses play tag across your porch. A swim. A sketch. A book half-read. Then sunset on the deck with their million-dollar view, no camera in hand ... just clean air in your lungs and dust on your skin.
And maybe, if you're still enough, the baobabs will speak to you too. This lodge asks you to stay a while, not just to see, but to feel. Let your itinerary breathe. Give the baobabs time to introduce themselves properly. They're not just here for show. They are the custodians of the land. They remember who you were when you first arrived — and who you could become, if only you'd stop rushing through their world.
Another vehicle rolls in. The baobabs feel the tyres before they see the dust.
"Two nights?"
"Let's see."
"Maybe this group will stay longer, maybe they'll listen . . . look, that little boy looks genuinely curious."
"What about this group? Maybe they'll sit still long enough to notice the way the river talks to the wind."
"Oh, these are returnees... maybe they'll remember us, maybe they've learned to stand still a little longer."
And if not? The baobabs will wait. They always do. They have all the time in the world.
But suddenly the little girl rushed up and tried her hardest to hug the whole baobab, “look Mummy, it’s still here, I think it’s even grown a little!” And the baobab smiled.
The Maasai Gardner Tawi Lodge Amboseli
It’s 2025, that’s fifteen years after Tawi Amboseli opened; and it’s still going strong at a 70% bed night capacity – that’s sending a strong message. Look at Trip Advisor and the feedback cannot be more complimentary: "Tawi Lodge blew my wife and me away — it's an absolutely beautiful lodge… Pure magic… The lodge combines the charm of a boutique hotel with the excitement of a safari, offering luxurious accommodations and mesmerising wildlife views."
There’s something to be said in having made the decision for an electric fence around the property that keeps out megafauna but allows all the smaller wildlife a way in – yes, there will be impala grazing in front of your room and, most probably, a lively cluster of dwarf mongooses under the deck of your verandah. These guys certainly provided us with hours of entertainment as they suckled young, stretched out in the morning sun, somersaulted over each other in play and all while
By Hollie M’gog
continually squeaking. But because of that fence, the gardens are just exquisite. Where once elephants roamed through Amboseli, leaving it in the dusty, dry spells for which it is so famed, now there are many, many more residents and as a result, the trees that made up the wooded areas are fast disappearing. That makes Tawi and incredible green oasis; at all times of the year.
Tawi, fifteen years ago, went for the timeless safari design; earthy tones, thatched roofs, wooden decks, canvas sided walls and windows that can zip fully open. The fence means you can walk to and from your room unattended, which I definitely find refreshing. Four-poster beds and mosquito nets (I mention that, because so many modern lodges have done away with nets, to their detriment), wildlife art adorns the walls tastefully and yes, the
bathrooms are worth a mention! Not quite an outdoor shower but a door that open fully onto Kilimanjaro views, a large bathtub, his and hers sinks and so much natural light.
But it’s the main area that has really captured the ambience that seems to settle on all visitors. By day there are the gurgles of inter-connected fishponds, their sides styled with natural rocks and shapes, in which stands of papyrus sway in the breeze beneath the stretched-out branches of Acacia thorns, where frantic and chaotic cacophonies of nesting weavers are never quiet. When it’s dry, the lodge's watering hole is a hub of wildlife activity, with giraffes, zebras and elephants gathering, creating a unique and immersive safari experience.
There are three secluded areas with couches and coffee tables that offer solace from the heat and of course the pool! And what a glorious pool: Views
of the waterhole, surrounded by that lush vegetation that has grown up and makes you feel as though you’re are swimming in a natural waterhole. Pool loungers and picnic tables look out over the waterhole, Kilimanjaro standing sentinel just to the side.
Of course, there are the obligatory trips into Amboseli National Park and possible sightings of some of Kenya’s iconic Tuskers, (if the Tanzanians have not allowed any more to be shot by trophy hunters who seem to stand waiting at the border), but there are Tawi’s own offerings. On-foot game walks in the conservancy where gerenuk, eland, kudu and of course giraffe, zebra, impala, Grants and
Thomsons gazelles are possible sightings. Every now and again an elephant, ambling about, will catch your eye, but when the mountain is out, its Kibo, Mawenzi and Uhuru that steal the show.
There is one other way to get out into the conservancy and that is by camel! Now, camels are renowned for their bad tempers and spitting records, but the Tawi camels, well I was nuzzling faces, scratching stomachs and altogether bonding just too well to climb a-top. Rachel did though, and off she headed into the scrub. ‘It’s a unique feeling, viewing zebras and giraffe from a camel, in fact, there is nothing quite like it.’
Come late afternoon, there arose in us the need for a touch of exercise and a cold drink (a ubiquitous safari feeling) and so we set off, not on a game walk, but a good, fast, meandering powerwalk for thirty minutes that ended at a Tawi Magic Spot. There before us, a complete surprise, were two chairs, draped over with Maasai shukas, a table groaning beneath tasty snacks and a selection of wines, beers, gin & sonics and even fresh juices. As we toasted, the mountain shed her clouded blankets and looked down at us, luxuriating beside a crackling fire.
We closed the evening with a night drive; a single, short hour, which
afforded us good sightings of several African wildcats, servaline genet, scrub hares, white-tailed mongooses and a skunk. Those that evaded us included, amongst others, aardvark, civet, hyena and aardwolf.
But it is, I feel, the Maasai gardener, Samuel, who should be visited. He tends to the vegetable garden. Every leaf of lettuce, every sun-ripened tomato and even the tilapia from the lodge’s fledgling fish ponds owes its existence to the careful hands of this Maasai gardener — a role one might not expect from a man of a culture famed for cattle herding, not cultivating.
Meet Samuel, Tawi Lodge’s gardener extraordinaire. Wearing a wide, welcoming smile, Samuel tends to the lodge’s gardens with a passion that’s both inspiring and humbling. His hands move deftly through the greenery, nurturing an abundance of fresh produce that graces the lodge’s dining tables. ‘Many guests are surprised when they learn I’m a gardener,’ Samuel says with a chuckle. ‘But for me, it’s not just a job — it’s my way of showing how the land can provide in different ways. I love my job.’ This fusion of cultures and innovation is just one of the many surprises that Tawi Lodge has in store for its guests.
It goes without saying then, that dining at Tawi Lodge is a delight to the tastebuds. Each meal tells a story of this little square of land, each meal crafted with ingredients fresh from the Maasai-garden. The kaleidoscope of flavours, paired with views of the lodge’s watering hole, is unforgettable. Guests rave about dishes like herbed tilapia fillet, made with fish harvested just metres away, and vibrant salads bursting with garden freshness. ‘The meals here were the best we had in our entire two-week trip through Kenya and Tanzania,’ one guest exclaimed. ‘To think this all came from a garden managed by a Maasai — amazing!’
And so, whether enjoying a sundowner, a bush walk, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, every moment at Tawi Lodge feels like a dream.
Bush Breakfast
Accelerating Predator Conservation in the Greater Mara
The partnership between Kenya Wildlife Trust and AirKenya Express over the past year has accelerated conservation efforts in the Mara. As KWT’s "Official Safari Airline Sponsor," AirKenya plays a central role in enabling predator protection, strengthening communities and promoting collaboration, resulting in measurable progress for human-wildlife coexistence.
Human-wildlife conflict, often exacerbated by environmental factors, is a significant challenge in the Greater Mara ecosystem and KWT’s flagship Mara Predator Conservation Programme (MPCP) leads innovative, science-driven approaches to address it. In early 2025, following several lion poisoning incidents, KWT and its partners promptly held sensitisation barazas in seven villages as part of a wider anti-poisoning effort that has
reached over 33,000 people. In the first half of 2025, assisted by AirKenya’s logistical support, teams responded to more than 2,400 GPS-collared lion alerts, and Lion Ambassadors removed over 40 snares during daily patrols.
Through KWT’s "Ufugaji Hifadhi" livelihoods program, over 122,000 livestock were vaccinated to tackle high mortality and disease rates, enhancing local economic resilience. In high-conflict zones, our MPCP team installed 220 solar deterrent lights and built reinforced bomas (livestock enclosures), effectively protecting livestock at night. These efforts, supported by AirKenya’s facilitation, improve community relations and demonstrate the tangible benefits of conservation.
The generous donation of round-trip
flights to the Tony Lapham Predator Hub in the Maasai Mara by AirKenya is an enabler of this work, providing a cost-saving and logistical lifeline that saves our teams days of travel. This support ensures a rapid response to critical incidents, such as the recent poisonings, by enabling senior staff to assist field teams and facilitate community dialogues promptly. The flights are also essential for transporting researchers for predator collaring and for bringing stakeholders on-site visits, which are crucial for securing the long-term funding that sustains these efforts.
This collaboration is a showcase of how corporate social responsibility can drive tangible conservation results and promote sustainable tourism that is important for the Greater Mara.
To learn more about KWT and how you can support us, visit: http:// kenyawildlifetrust.org
Community village elders posing for a photo after an antipoisoning baraza at Olare–Orok.
Working to
protect Kenya’s wildlife and enhance the lives of the local communities that share their space in the Maasai-Mara
It all began with a warthog named Sir Francis Bacon with an arrow embedded deeply in his side.
Since 1999, the Anne K. Taylor Fund (AKTF) has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation and community development in Kenya’s Maasai-Mara. Our Founder, Anne Kent Taylor, realised in those early days, that snaring for bushmeat, such an urgent threat, was happening locally at an alarming level. She acted fast then and now, with the same Maasai team, AKTF, as a Non-profit Organisation, continues to protect our iconic wildlife while supporting the local communities that share the land with them.
AKTF takes a holistic approach to conservation, believing that long-term success in protecting wildlife MUST go hand-in-hand with empowering local people. This commitment is carried out through four core pillars: Education, Women’s Empowerment, Health care, and working with local authorities on anti-poaching patrols and wildlife rescues.
In education, AKTF built, and supports, Oloolomong’i , Oliashire and Nailepu primary/junior schools. We constructed classrooms, toilets and rain water harvesting gutters and tanks. We supply textbooks, stationery, school uniforms, desks and we support lunch programmes to boost attendance and performance. Conservation education is a key component in our education pillar. Students engage in tree planting,
field trips to the park and they learn the value of protecting their environment.
Women’s empowerment is central to AKTF’S mission. Through our local women’s group, Esidai, AKTF supports the production of washable sanitary pads, which are distributed along with menstrual hygiene training to adolescent girls. This simple yet powerful intervention helps girls stay in school consistently and with dignity during their menses.
AKTF also founded a women’s co-operative, Esongoyo, that produces liquid soap, which is sold to lodges, Mara conservancy, schools, hospitals and community individuals in the Mara. These projects provide a sustainable source of income and promote financial independence and
entrepreneurship for the women. On the conservation front, AKTF’s dedicated anti-poaching and de-snaring patrol team patrols tirelessly across the Mara ecosystem. They protect wildlife, remove snares, rescue injured wildlife and respond to threats from poachers. They also raise awareness in communities about human-wildlife coexistence. This on-the ground presence has saved countless animals and strengthened relationships with the local community.
We are proud of our growing strong partnerships, particularly with Air Kenya, and grateful to our supporters. We continue to make a real difference ensuring that the future of the Maasai Mara is one where both wildlife and communities can thrive together in harmony.
United for the Wild: Mara Elephant Project’s Partnerships for Wildlife Protection
The Mara Elephant Project (MEP), a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting elephants, their habitats, and the communities living alongside them in the greater Mara landscape. It relies on a vast network of partners that support their efforts.
Recently MEP received a distressing alert; a lone, one-month-old female elephant calf had been spotted in Mara North Conservancy (MNC), with no mother in sight. MEP and MNC rangers, together with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officials, immediately launched a search to reunite the calf with her family. For a moment, there was hope, she ran straight toward a nearby herd. But hours of close monitoring confirmed the heartbreaking truth: the herd rejected her, leaving her completely alone.
As night fell, and with the calf growing weak and hungry, critical action had to wait until the daylight hours. So, that night, KWS Vet Dr. Ashif Hafiz, alongside rangers from MEP, KWS, and MNC, stayed with the baby, feeding and monitoring her condition at a nearby ranger camp.
At first light, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust team arrived to safely transport her to their Nairobi elephant orphanage, where she could benefit from their expert care. Sadly, as the calf was on her flight to safety, rangers discovered the deceased mother nearby and, after an investigation, it was determined she died of natural causes.
While never the outcome MEP and its partners wish to see, it’s those partnerships that make operations like this possible, giving this baby a fighting chance at life.
Baby elephant rescues are a rare occurrence in the Mara; you’re more likely to witness MEP rangers guiding elephants away from community fences and farms using drones, the
coexistence team hosting a community training to farm elephant-friendly crops, or the elephant research team in the classroom nurturing the next generation of conservationists. All of which are only successful with a partnership model and your support. Learn more by visiting https:// maraelephantproject.org.
This lifesaving operation, and so many others like it, are made possible by partnerships with organisations committed to conservation. One such partner, AirKenya, continues to be a vital supporter of MEP’s mission. Their reliable, cost-effective service between Wilson Airport and the Mara enables efficient staff and stakeholder travel, project monitoring and rapid response missions.
Flights with AirKenya have supported
crucial operations such as board engagements, field visits, and community outreach. Their support extends beyond logistics, they are also a sponsor for the UltraMARAthon, a 50 km race held annually in the Maasai Mara to raise funds for ranger support, wildlife conservation, and community health care. This year’s event will take place on November 15, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of Lemek Conservancy, Mara North Conservancy and Ol Chorro Conservancy.
“With the UltraMARAthon, we’re creating a new and engaging way to raise funds for critical programs,” said Beatrice Karanja, Chairperson of the Mara Elephant Project Trust. “It’s not just about running; it’s about getting Kenyans and international well-wishers involved in something that directly supports the protection of the Mara ecosystem.”
More than just a race, the UltraMARAthon is a movement. A movement to protect elephants, support rangers and uplift communities. Every mile run and every shilling raised contributes to a future where wildlife and people thrive, together. You too can participate by clicking on this link: https://ultramarathon.co.ke/register/ or scanning the QR code on the image below.
MEP Staff feeding Rescued Calf
AIRKENYA FLIGHT SCHEDULE 2025
AMBOSELI
FLT
P2
P2 884 AMBOSELI WILSON 08:15 8:50
• Daily service; minimum of 2 pax to operate.
• Flight from Amboseli to Wilson connects to Nanyuki, Lewa Downs, Samburu, Meru, and Loisaba at 10:00; Maasai Mara at 10:30 and Kilimanjaro at 13:30.
KILIMANJARO
FLT
P2 821
P2 822 KILIMANJARO WILSON 14:40 15:35
• Daily service, minimum of 4 pax per sector to operate.
• Kilimanjaro service is non-operational 1st April - 31st May and 1st Nov - 15th Dec
• This airport is your gateway to a safari between Kenya and Tanzania as it easily connects to Arusha, Manyara, Seronera and Lobo with Regional Air Services at 15:30.
LEWA DOWNS
FLT
P2
P2
P2
• Daily service; minimum of 2 pax to operate.
• Arrival and departure times to/from Lewa Downs may vary significantly by up to 45 minutes depending on aircraft routing over multiple airstrips.
• Flight from Masai Mara connects to Lewa via Wilson at 10:00.
• Flight from Lewa to Wilson connects to Kilimanjaro at 13:30 and to Masai Mara at 14:00.
• Flight from Lewa to Masai Mara may route via Wilson in low season to connect on the 14:00 flight.
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and pick up times for various airstrips.
LOISABA
FLT
P2
P2 872
P2 862 LOISABA MASAI MARA 11:15 13:15
• Daily service; minimum of 2 pax to operate.
• Arrival and departure times to/from Loisaba may vary significantly by up to 45 minutes depending on aircraft routing over multiple airstrips.
• Flight from Masai Mara connects to Loisaba via Wilson at 10:00.
• Flight from Loisaba to Wilson connects to Kilimanjaro at 13:30 and to Masai Mara at 14:00.
• Flight from Loisaba to Masai Mara may route via Wilson in low season to connect on the 14:00 flight.
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and pick up times for various airstrips.
MASAI MARA
• Daily Service; minimum of 2 pax per
• The inbound flight Masai Mara to Wilson arriving at 09:45 connects to our Wilson - Northern Kenya Services i.e. Lewa, Loisaba, Meru, Nanyuki and Samburu at 10:00 and to Kilimanjaro at 13:30
• Masai Mara services operates into multiple airstrips, therefore timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• The arrival and departure times depict the first stop.
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and
• Daily Service; minimum of 2 pax per strip to operate.
• Special offer applies to flight departing Wilson at 07:30, and from Mara at 14:45.
• Masai Mara services operates into multiple airstrips, therefore timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• The arrival and departure times depict the first stop.
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and pick up times for various airstrips.
• Daily service; minimum of 2 pax to operate.
• Arrival and departure times to/from Meru may vary significantly by up to 45 minutes depending on aircraft routing over multiple airstrips.
• Flight from Masai Mara connects to Meru via Wilson at 10:00.
• Flight from Meru to Wilson connects to Kilimanjaro at 13:30 and to Masai Mara at 14:00.
• Flights from Meru to Samburu is a one-direction service.
• Flight from Meru to Masai Mara may route via Wilson in low season to connect on the 14:00 flight.
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and pick up times for various airstrips.
NANYUKI / KAMOK
• Daily service to Nanyuki Civil and Kamok airstrips; minimum of 2 pax per strip to operate.
• Arrival and departure times to/from Nanyuki/Kamok may vary significantly by up to 45 minutes depending on aircraft routing over multiple airstrips.
• Flight from Masai Mara connects to Nanyuki Civil/Kamok via Wilson at 10:00.
• Flight from Nanyuki Civil/Kamok to Wilson connects to Kilimanjaro at 13:30 and to Masai Mara at 14:00.
• Flight from Nanyuki Civil/Kamok to Masai Mara may route via Wilson in low season to connect on the 14:00 flight
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and pick up times for various airstrips.
AIRKENYA FLIGHT SCHEDULE 2025
SAMBURU BUFFALO/ KALAMA
FLT NO FROM TO DEPART ARRIVE
P2 871 WILSON SAMBURU 10:00 11:00
P2 872 SAMBURU WILSON 11:15 13:25
P2 862 SAMBURU MASAI MARA 11:15 13:15
• Daily service to Samburu Buffalo and Kalama airstrips; minimum of 2 pax per strip to operate.
• Arrival and departure times to/from Nanyuki/Kamok may vary significantly by up to 45 minutes depending on aircraft routing over multiple airstrips.
• Flight from Masai Mara connects to Samburu Buffalo and Kalama via Wilson at 10:00.
• Flight from Samburu Buffalo and Kalama to Wilson connects to Kilimanjaro at 13:30 and to Masai Mara at 14:00.
• Flight from Samburu Buffalo and Kalama to Masai Mara may route via Wilson in low season to connect on the 14:00 flight.
• Call Airkenya operations on departure date to confirm arrival and pick up times for various airstrips.
MIGORI / TARIME
FLT
P2 453 MASAI MARA MIGORI 08:15 09:00
P2 453 MASAI MARA TARIME 08:15 10:10
P2
• Daily service; minimum of 2 pax per strip to operate except 1st April - 31st May & 1st Nov - 15th Dec requires minimum 4 pax per strip.
• Service operates into multiple airstrips therefore timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• AirKenya provides road transfer and ground handling between Migori and Tarime.
• The service connects Airkenya Masai Mara services with Regional Air/Auric Air/Coastal Aviation Serengeti services.
MASAI MARA - SERENGETI VV (VIA MIGORI/TARIME)
FLT NO FROM TO DEPART ARRIVE
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA SERONERA 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 SERONERA MASAI MARA 8:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA KOGATENDE 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 KOGATENDE MASAI MARA 08:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/432 MASAI MARA MANYARA 08:15 12:00
N8/P2 431/454 MANYARA MASAI MARA 08:40 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA FORT IKOMA 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 FORT IKOMA MASAI MARA 08:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA NDUTU 08:15 11:45
N8/P2 115/454 NDUTU MASAI MARA 08:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA LOBO 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 LOBO MASAI MARA 08:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA SERENGETI SOUTH 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 SERENGETI SOUTH MASAI MARA 8:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA SASAKWA 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 SASAKWA MASAI MARA 08:15 12:40
P2/N8 453/422 MASAI MARA GRUMETI 08:15 11:20
N8/P2 421/454 GRUMETI MASAI MARA 08:15 12:40
• Daily service; minimum of 2 pax per strip to operate except 1st April - 31st May & 1st Nov - 15th Dec requires minimum 4 pax per strip.
• Flight services route via Migori and Tarime
• AirKenya provides road transfer and ground handling between Migori and Tarime.
• Service operates into multiple airstrips therefore pick up and drop off tmings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• The service connects Airkenya Masai Mara services with Regional Air/Auric Air/Coastal Aviation Serengeti services.
MASAI MARA - UGANDA VIA KISUMU / ENTEBBE
FLT NO FROM TO DEPART ARRIVE
P2 551 MASAI MARA ENTEBBE 08:15 11:00
P2 552 ENTEBBE MASAI MARA 11:45 14:30
P2/A8* 551/121 MASAI MARA KIHIHI (BINP) 08:15 15:30
A8*/P2 112/552 KIHIHI(BINP) MASAI MARA 08:35 14:30
P2/A8* 551/ 121 MASAI MARA KASESE(KFNP & QENP) 08:15 15:30
A8*/P2 112/552 KASESE(KFNP & QENP) MASAI MARA 08:35 14:30
P2/A8* 551/121 MASAI MARA BUGUNGU/PAKUBA/ CHOBE(MFNP) 08:15 14:00
A8*/P2 112/552 KISORO(BINP) MASAI MARA 08:35 14:30
• Daily service; minimum of 4 pax per sector to operate except 1st April - 31st May & 1st Nov - 15th Dec whereby the service will be non-operational.
• Flight services route via Kisumu and Entebbe Airports for Customs and Immigration.
• Service operates into multiple airstrips therefore pick up and drop off timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• Masai Mara - Entebbe flight service connects the same day to all AeroLink airstrips except Kisoro which strictly operates in the morning. Early morning flight Kisoro - Entebbe flight service, however can connect the same day into the Masai Mara.
• BINP - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• QENP - Queen Elizabeth National Park
• MFNP - Murchison Falls National Park
• KFNP - Kibale Forest National Park
HIGH SEASON: 21 DEC 2024 - 28 FEBRUARY 2025; 01 JUN 2025 - 31 OCT 2025
LOW SEASON: 01 MARCH - 31 MAY 2025; 01 NOV - 15 DEC 2025
• Valid from 21st December 2024 to 20th December 2025
• CHECK IN is done 60 minutes to departure time in Nairobi (Wilson), Kilimanjaro, Kisumu and Entebbe Airports. Passengers will not be allowed to check in 30 minutes to departure time on the mentioned airports.
• Check in time for all bush airstrips is 30 minutes before flight departure time.
• Contact Airkenya Operations department on the morning of the scheduled flight to get approximate arrival and departure times for various bush airstrips.
• Airkenya guarantees all its connecting flights within Kenya and across East Africa in conjunction with its subsidiaries; Regional Air Services and AeroLink Uganda.
• Contact the Charter department for tailor-made services or if the scheduled service does not meet your requirements: charters@airkenya.com
• Airkenya reserves the right to change departure times or carrier when so required for operational, weather or safety reasons.
Email resvns@airkenya.com or call +254 (0)20 391 6000 for further clarification.
Contact the Charter department for tailor-made services or if the scheduled service does not meet your requirements: charters@airkenya.com
1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park - Kasese airstrip 3. Kibale Forest National Park - Kasese airstrip 4. Murchison Falls National Park - Pakuba and Chobe airstrips 5. Entebbe - Maasai Mara Via Kisumu
1. Arusha 2. Kilimanjaro
Kogatende
Lake Manyara
Lobo
Ndutu
Seronera
Zanzibar
Tarime
LAKE MBURO NAT. PARK
KIBALE NAT. PARK
JINJA
MBARARA
APOKA KIDEPO
FLIGHT SCHEDULE 2025
VALID FROM 01 JANUARY 2025 TO 31 DECEMBER 2025
Arusha AM Kogatende 8:00 9:55
Lobo 8:00 9:25
Manyara 8:00 8:25
Manyara 9:50 10:10 Operated only July & August
Ndutu *** 8:00 9:05
Seronera 8:00 10:30
Kogatende 7:00 7:45 Operated only July & August
Kogatende 9:50 11:10 Operated Only July & August
seronera 7:00 8:25 Operated Only July & August
Seronera 9:50 11:50 Operated Only July & August
Seronera 7:00 8:25 Operated only July & August
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Arusha PM Kilimanjaro 13:00 13:15
Manyara 16:00 16:25
Seronera 13:00 17:15
Kilimanjaro 13:15 13:30 Operated only July & August
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Arusha Zanzibar 13:00 14:35
Zanzibar 14:30 15:35 Operated only July & August
Zanzibar Arusha 15:00 16:35 Arusha 16:00 17:05 operated only July & August
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Kilimanjaro PM Arusha 15:30 15:45
Manyara 15:30 16:25
Seronera 15:30 17:15
Kogatende 15:30 TBA
Ndutu*** 15:30 TBA Lobo 15:30 TBA
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Kogatende AM Arusha 10:00 12:15
Arusha 8:05 9:25 Operated only July & August
Arusha 11:30 13:35 Operated only July & August
Kilimanjaro 10:00 13:10
Kilimanjaro 11:30 13:45 Operated only July & August
Lobo 10:00 TBA
Manyara 10:00 11.35
Manyara 11:30 12:55 Operated only July & August
Ndutu *** 10:00 TBA
Seronera 10:00 10:30
Seronera 8:05 8:25 Operated only July & August
Zanzibar 10:00 14:35
Zanzibar 11:30 15:35 Operated only July & August
Tarime 9:15 10:15
Masai Mara 9:15 12:40 Connects with Airkenya at Migori
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Seronera AM Arusha 11:00 12:15
Arusha 8:45 9:25 Operated only July & August
Arusha 12:20 13:35 Operated Only July & August
Kilimanjaro 11:00 13:10
Kilimanjaro 12:20 13:45 Operated only July & August
Lobo 9:30 9:50
Manyara 11:00 11:35
Manyara 12:20 12:55 Operated only July & August
Zanzibar 11:00 14:35
Zanzibar 12:20 15:35 Operated Only July & August
Tarime 9:15 10:15
Masai Mara 9:15 12:40 Connects with Airkenya at Migori
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Lobo AM Arusha 9:45 12:15
Arusha 9:45 13:35 Operated Only July & August
Kilimanjaro 9:45 13:10
Kilimanjaro 9:45 13:45 Operated only July & August
Kogatende 9:45 9:55
Manyara 9:45 11:35
Ndutu *** 9:45 10:15
Seronera 9:45 10:30
Zanzibar 9:45 14:35
Zanzibar 9:45 15:35 Operated only July & August
Tarime 9:15 10:15
Masai Mara 9:15 12:40 Connects with Airkenya at Migori
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
Manyara AM Arusha 11:50 12:15
Arusha 13:05 13:35 Operated only July & August
Kilimanjaro 11:50 13:15
Kilimanjaro 13:05 13:45 Operated only July & August
Kogatende 8:40 9:25
Kogatende 10:30 11:10 Operated only July & August
Lobo 8:40 10:20
Ndutu *** 8:40 9:05
Seronera 8:40 10:30
Seronera 10:30 11:50 Operated only July & August
Zanzibar 11:50 14:35
Zanzibar 13:05 15:35 Operated only July & August
Timings above are estimates and will vary depending on aircraft routing
• Due to the prevailing weather conditions, Kisoro will operate in the early morning and midmorning
• Kisoro has a surcharge of USD 70 per person.
• From Kisoro airstrip passengers can connect to:- Kihihi and Kasese airstrips on request at seat rate.
• Flight 112 from Kisoro, passengers can connect to Masai Mara Via Entebbe and Kisumu for Immigration.
• Flight 117/118 will operate all year except March, April, May and November
BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK (NORTH)
FLT NO FROM TO DEPART ARRIVE
A8* 111 ENTEBBE KIHIHI 0700 0815
A8* 112 KIHIHI ENTEBBE 0835 1125
A8* 117 ENTEBBE KIHIHI 1030 1145
A8* 118 KIHIHI ENTEBBE 1205 1425
• Timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• Flight 112 from Kihihi passengers can connect onwards to Masai Mara Via Entebbe and Kisumu for Immigration
• Flight 117/118 will operate all year except March, April, May and November
• From Kihihi Airstrip passengers can connect to: - Kisoro and Kasese airstrips on request at seat rate.
A8* 121 ENTEBBE KIHIHI 1300 1530
A8* 122 KIHIHI ENTEBBE 1550 1715
• Flt A8*121/122 will operate all year except March, April, May and November
• Flight 121 may route via Murchison Falls National Park subject to loads
A8* 131 ENTEBBE KIHIHI 1300 1410
A8* 132 KIHIHI ENTEBBE 1430 1615
• Flt A8* 131/132 will operate in March, April, May and November
KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK AND QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK
DAILY SERVICE: Flight to/from Kasese will operate with a minimum of 2 passengers
FLT NO FROM TO DEPART ARRIVE
A8* 111 ENTEBBE KASESE 0700 0815
A8* 112 KASESE ENTEBBE 0835 1125
A8* 117 ENTEBBE KASESE 1030 1145
A8* 118 KASESE ENTEBBE 1205 1425
• Timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• Flight 112 from Kasese passengers can connect onwards to Masai Mara Via Entebbe and Kisumu for Immigration
• Flight 117/118 will operate all year except March, April, May and November
• From Kasese Airstrip passengers can connect to: - Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips on request at seat rate.
A8* 121 ENTEBBE KASESE 1300 1530
A8* 122 KASESE ENTEBBE 1550 1715
• Flt A8*121/122 will operate all year except March, April, May and November
• Flight 121 may route via Murchison Falls National Park subject to loads.
A8* 131 ENTEBBE KASESE 1300 1410
A8* 132 KASESE ENTEBBE 1430 1615
• Flt A8* 131/132 will operate in March, April, May and November
FLIGHT SCHEDULE
MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK (PAKUBA, CHOBE
& BUGUNGU AIRSTRIPS)
DAILY SERVICE EXCEPT MARCH, APRIL, MAY AND NOVEMBER.
FLT
• Timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• Flight to/from Murchison will operate with a minimum of 4 passengers
• Flt A8*121/122 will operate all year except March, April, May and November whereby the service will be non-operational.
• From Murchison, passengers can connect to:- Kasese and Kihihi airstrips
Murchison Falls National Park – KFNP, QENP & BINP
• Timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• Flight from Murchison to Kasese/Kihihi will operate with a minimum of 4 passengers
• Flt A8*121 will operate all year except March, April, May and November whereby the service will be non-operational.
KFNP- Kibale Forest National Park (Kasese airstrip)
QENP - Queen Elizabeth National Park (Kasese airstrip)
BINP - Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Kihihi airstrip)
MASAI MARA
- ENTEBBE
DAILY SERVICE EXCEPT APRIL, MAY, 1ST NOVEMBER TO 15TH DECEMBER
P2 551 MASAI MARA ENTEBBE 0815 1100
P2 552 ENTEBBE MASAI MARA
P2 551 MASAI MARA *KISUMU 0815 0920 P2 552 *KISUMU MASAI MARA 1325 1430
P2 551 *KISUMU ENTEBBE 1000 1100
P2 552 ENTEBBE *KISUMU 1145 1245
• Timings may vary depending on aircraft routing.
• *Flight services route via Kisumu and Entebbe Airports for Customs and Immigration
• Mara Entebbe flight will operate with minimum of 4 pax per sector to operate except April, May & 1st Nov - 15th Dec whereby the service will be non-operational.
• Airkenya requires a minimum of 2 pax per airstrip in Maasai Mara to operate.
• From Masai Mara, passengers can connect to: Kihihi, Kasese, Pakuba, Chobe, and Bugungu
Notes
• CHECK IN TIME is 60 minutes to departure time at Entebbe International Airport
• Check in time for all bush airstrips is 30 minutes before flight departure time.
• Contact AeroLink Operations department on the morning of the scheduled flight to get approximate arrival and departure times for various bush airstrips.
• AeroLink ONLY guarantees flights within its route network and subsidiaries
• Flight to/from Jinja to Kisoro/Kihihi/Kasese/ Murchison Falls on request at a surcharge of USD 1000
• AeroLink reserves the right to change departure times or carrier when so required for operational, weather or safety reasons.
• Contact the Charter department for tailor-made services or if the scheduled service does not meet your requirements: charters@aerolinkuganda.com
AEROLINK AIRCRAFT FLEET
CESSNA GRAND CARAVAN C208B
Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company, USA
Crew: 2 pilots
Passengers: Maximum 11
Description: STOL Aircraft with fixed undercarriage ideal for African bush flying
No in Fleet: 3
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