Lake Borgoria and the Flamingo Migration

I ran across this fantastic series of photographs from Martin Harvey, who stayed at Lake Borgoria for 2 weeks in order to photograph the enormous number of flamingo currently there.  The flamingo come to Lake Bogoria usually from August to October and return to Lake Nakuru in the spring.

The Cyanobacteria found in the lake not only makes the water appear a greenish emerald color, it also attracts the large numbers of flamingo.  Volcanic soda-rich springs flow into the lake and cause it to become more and more mineral-laiden and alkaline.  Cyanobacteria thrives in this environment.

When the migration of flamingo reaches Lake Bogoria, it is home to the largest population of flamingos on the planet.  Greater Flamingos are present but it is the incredible number of Lesser Flamingos that makes the migration so visually spectacular.

Boat rides are possible on Lake Bogoria to get up-close with the bird-life and hippo that inhabit these waters.  There are a number of accommodation option in Bogoria, including Lake Bogoria Spa Resort, The Baringo Country Club, and Samatian Island Lodge.

To witness the largest migration of flamingo in the world and a truly spectacular event, head to Lake Bogoria.

For more information about our safaris, please go to www.travel-wild.com.  Find Kenya safaris, Tanzania safaris, Mombasa and Zanzibar properties, and more.

River Crossing Spectacular

We have all seen the spectacular wildebeest river crossings on television.  Thousands of creates lined up along the river banks and then in an instant a giant rush toward the other side almost in a single file line.  Crocodiles and lion seem to be everywhere, anticipating an easy meal.

These river crossings are happening right now in the Masai Mara Game Reserve (see the amazing pictures below).  What’s the best way to see these river crossings?  Timing and luck.  The Great Migration moves into the Masai Mara from July to October.  During this time they are forced to cross the Mara River in order to complete their annual journey back to Tanzania.  So first of all, you want to be in the Masai Mara from July to October.

Secondly, bring your rabbit’s foot or other lucky charm.  The large herds of wildebeest line up along the river’s banks and can often wait there for hours or even days.  There are 4-5 main locations where the herds cross the river each year.  Once the first animal heads across the river, the others (often thousands of others) follow suit and create a steady line of wildebeest and zebra heading to the opposite bank.  For those lucky enough to see it, the river crossing is as spectacular as advertised on TV.  It can take 30-60 minutes for the larger herds to all cross the river.  Meanwhile crocodile and lion lie in wait, picking off the less fortunate wildebeest and zebra.  One can view nature during one of its most dramatic moments.  These animals have performed this annual migration for thousands of years and will continue to do so for thousands of years more.  With over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra, there are plenty of opportunities to see a river crossing.

Check out these pictures taken 2 weeks ago in the Masai Mara Game Reserve:

For more information about our safaris, please go to www.travel-wild.com.  Find Kenya safaris, Tanzania safaris, Mombasa and Zanzibar properties, and more.

On the Road… Safari Minibus vs 4x4 vehicle

As you plan your safari, one of the decisions you have to make is whether you want to travel via safari minibus or 4x4 vehicle.  For any Tanzania safari, you will have a 4x4 vehicle.  But for a Kenya safari, you will have the choice of either a safari minibus or 4x4 vehicle.  Here's a look at a 4x4 vehicle (1st picture) and a safari minibus (2nd picture).

Let me quickly break down the pros and cons for each type of vehicle:

Safari Minibus:

• Less expensive
• Pop-open roof for 360 degree viewing
• Allows for 6 window seats in the back

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• Not as good in mud or difficult terrain

4x4 Vehicle:

• Pop-open roof for 360 degree viewing
• Allows for 6 window seats in the back
• Better suspension for a less bumpy ride
• Very good in mud and difficult terrain
• More space inside the vehicle

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• More expensive

A Safari Minibus is a great option on any Kenya safari.  It is less expensive and can hold up to 6-7 people with a pop-open roof for game viewing.  But personally, I prefer the 4x4 vehicles.  They are larger, allowing each person more room inside the vehicle.  They are more rugged and able to navigate through both mud and difficult terrain with ease.  They also feature a pop-open roof.  But an underrated feature is the feel of a 4x4 vehicle.  You FEEL like you’re exploring the park.  You FEEL like you are definitely on safari.  You FEEL like you might be on safari in the early 1900s with the likes of Hemingway, Roosevelt, and Cunninghame.

Upgrading to a 4x4 vehicle is a great option if you are part of a group.  It is usually only an extra cost of $25-30 per person per day if you are part of a group of 4-6 people.  Whether you travel via minibus or 4x4 vehicle, any Kenya safari or Tanzania safari is a magical experience.

For more information about our safaris, please go to www.travel-wild.com.  Find Kenya safaris, Tanzania safaris, Mombasa and Zanzibar properties, and more.