wildebeest crossing turbulent crocodile infested Mara River

The Maasai (Masai) Mara  national park and reserve, once described as “Kenya’s Jewel never to be lost”, is in a class of its own.  The  best known wildlife sanctuary in the World Maasai (Masai) Mara National Reserve has acquired a high flier status having been  named “the seventh wonder of the world”.  The seventh wonder of the world is the  spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration between Maasai (Masai) Mara and Serengeti.

The Wildebeest Migration

The Wildebeest Migration in Maasai (Masai) Mara /Serengeti wildebeest migration is not about wildebeests migrating per se but rather its influence on the movement patterns of the other animals including human beings.  The migration comprise of the never ending milling of over 2.5 million wild animals composed of a about 1.7 million wildebeests, and 800,000 common Zebras and gazelle, followed closely by their predators-lions, hyenas, leopards, jackals.   Hovering in the skies are thousands of vultures, the super predators. Patient in nature, they survey the migrating herds descending on the dead carcasses reducing them to skeletons in a matter of seconds.  The hazardous crossing of crocodile invested Mara and Grumeti rivers is magical wonder of nature attracting thousands of human beings.  This survival of the fittest spectacle has been described at the “seventh wonder of the modern world”.  Strategic sighting of the migrating herds tend to influence the setting up of tourism facilities. The best time to witness migration in Masai Mara National Park Kenya, is between July to September.

Masai Mara wildebeest migration safaris

Several  wildebeest migration safaris are organized in both  Maasai (Masai) Mara and Serengeti National Parks.  The duration of the safari depends on various factors but mostly on time and budget but also the flexibility of the guest.  The all drive 11 days Masai Mara Serengeti Migration Safari commences from Nairobi and returns to the same via Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, and Amboseli.  The 8 days fly drive Wildebeest Migration Safari Masai Mara National Park  (Mara Explorer 8 days) is a luxury option. Guests fly from Nairobi Wilson to Masai Mara and return to the same.  The 4 days 3 Nights Migration safari combines Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha.   The 6 days Best of Tanzania Safari focuses on wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park.   The best time to witness migration in Masai Mara National Park Kenya, is between July to September. Serengeti National Park is best visited between March and May.  All these safaris can be combined with 4 Days Gorilla tracking in Rwanda .

Accommodation in Masai Mara

AS of now Masai Mara has 108 properties with a abed capacity of 4000.

The Tented camps and safari lodges in Masai Mara fall under three categories- luxury, mid range and budget. While only 12 properties are inside the Mara reserve others are in the neighboring group ranches.   Does it matter where you spend the night while in Mara? Yes.  If you are interested night game drives and lots of local culture then you can stay in the group ranches.  Group ranches are privately run by the local people. However unplanned development coupled with large number of visitors threatens the very survival of the reserve.  Large numbers of visitors are associated with high degree of pollution in terms of noise, dust and changed animal behavior which can lead to extinction of venerable species like the cheetah which hunts only during the day.

With incredible sadness we announce the translocation of the rhinos from the Mugie Rhino Sanctuary.

Reality hits hard and rhino poaching in Kenya and the rest of Africa has reached such worrying levels that the species has been pushed to the the edge of extinction. After a series of meetings between the Kenyan Wildlife Service and Mugie the decision was made to remove all rhinos from the Mugie Sanctuary for their own safety. The poachers were becoming more and more brazen as the price of rhino horn shot up – reports now reaching us have indicated that the the price has risen to an astonishing US$ 50,000 per kilogram. KWS had recently increased their armed Special Operations team from 9 to 38 men on Mugie but this was still not proving enough of a deterrent to the poachers.

Mugie had become synonymous with the conservation of the critically endangered black rhino and the continual daily battle to fight to save them. They had a huge dedicated security team that worked tirelessly over the years, but having already lost three rhinos in 2011 to poachers, saving these animals was more important than the revenues from tourism and the decision was made to translocate them to Ol Jogi Conservancy near Nanyuki in central Kenya and to Ruma (the new KWS conservancy on the shores of Lake Victoria) in western Kenya. The last rhino to leave Mugie was called Baraka – a bull rhino born in 1976 and translocated to Mugie from Nakuru National Park in 2005. It was a sad moment when his crate was put on the back of the truck and the last of Kenya’s most northerly population of black rhinos was driven away.

Ironically everything else here is in the rhinos favour – the habitat conditions at Mugie for the browsing black rhinos are ideal – and at Mugie the breeding success rate was the best out of any Conservancy in Kenya. But unfortunately the death rate was also one of the highest – one of the reasons was due to predation of rhino calfs by hyena – but the biggest reason behind the high death rates was by poaching.

To get an understanding of the numbers involved – in South Africa alone, which is home to 80% of the worlds remaining rhinos, there were a staggering 440 rhinos killed last year by poachers when just five years ago 13 rhinos were killed in the same period.

Mugie will always continue their efforts with conservation – which is also home to the endangered Grevys zebra and Jacksons hartebeest amongst other threatened species. Their lion numbers are extremely healthy when numbers are dropping in many other areas due to illegal killings and habitat loss.

We just hope that the rhinos who were moved from Mugie will flourish in their new environment safer from the appalling and real peril of poaching and that internationally something is being done to stop this disgrace so that the rhinos can come back to Mugie. Till then you still have the most amazing wildlife viewing with all of the remaining Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo – as well as lots of plain game.

Rhino safety comes first.

Brigitte, Deepa and the EAT Team.

East Africa’s Highlight Safaris

Wildebeests crossing the turbulent mara river.

Two of East Africa’s highlight safaris are the great wildebeest migration and gorilla tracking in Rwanda, Uganda or Congo.   Several  wildebeest migration safaris are organized in both  Maasai (Masai) Mara and Serengeti National Parks.  The duration of the safari depends on various factors but mostly on time and budget but also the flexibility of the guest.  The all drive 11 days Masai Mara Serengeti Migration Safari commences from Nairobi and returns to the same via Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, and Amboseli.  The 8 days fly drive Wildebeest Migration Safari Masai Mara National Park  (Mara Explorer 8 days) is a luxury option. Guests fly from Nairobi Wilson to Masai Mara and return to the same.  The 4 days 3 Nights Migration safari combines Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha.   The 6 days Best of Tanzania Safari focuses on wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park.   The best time to witness migration in Masai Mara National Park Kenya, is between July to September. Serengeti National Park is best visited between March and May.

Mother gorilla with twins

The Safari Highlight

The major highlight of this safari is visiting wildlife in its natural habitat.  Commencing from Nairobi, the participants visits the  Masai (Maasai) Mara National Reserve  famous for annual wildebeest Migration, Lake Nakuru National Park christined the greatest ornithological spectacle,  Amboseli National Park/Reserve is the home of the most celebrated and longest studied elephants population in the World and finally Tsavo West with its Mzima springs. .  The safari offers diverse experiences with close authentic encounters with wild animals in their natural habitats.

Nature has no day or night. It is a full time adventure, with survival of the fittest at play during the day and night.   Dawns and dusts are the necessary transitions for continuity of this play.  At dawn, the nocturnal ( night active) are going back to their dens after full successful or failed hunting escapades.  At dawn, the diurnal ( day actives) lucky to survive the night have risen and busy eating before the scorching sun appear.  Afternoons are characterized by scorching sun with little activity.

Pre dawn (before sun rise), early morning game drives are the best as they allow you to spot a mix of diurnal (day actives) and nocturnal ( night active) animals.  At this time the hunting success is at its highest.  At dawn most the birds have risen and are busy catching the worms.   Pre-dawn game drives also gives a chance to observe the spectacle of the sun rise.  Evenings are also ideal especially at the watering holes where both predators and prey meet.  Evening or sundowner game drives gives one a chance to spot these animals and of course the setting sun.

In the afternoons you can visit local bomas.  In the evenings, you are entertained by the local cultural tropes of dancers and magicians.  Evening game drives can also be scheduled if you are out of the national parks.

See full Tour Programme

The Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Masai Mara and Serengeti National Parks

Several  wildebeest migration safaris are organized in both  Maasai (Masai) Mara and Serengeti National Parks.  Depending on accommodation and transport mode, the safari can either be luxury, mid range or budget.  The duration of the safari depends on various factors but mostly on time  and budget available for the traveler, the purpose he flexibility of the guest.  The all drive 11 days Masai Mara Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari commences from Nairobi and returns to the same via Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, and Amboseli.  The 8 days fly drive Wildebeest Migration Safari in Masai Mara National Park  (Mara Explorer 8 days) is a luxury option. Guests fly from Nairobi Wilson to Masai Mara and return to the same.  The 4 days 3 Nights Migration safari combines Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha.   The 6 days Best of Tanzania Safari focuses on wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park.   The best time to witness migration in Masai Mara National Park Kenya, is between July to September. Serengeti National Park is best visited between March and May.

Sandies Mapenzi Beach Club, one of the luxury hotels in north coast of Zanzibar

Lovely palm fringed beaches, water sports, rich culture and historical sites are some of the unique tourist attractions in Zanzibar.  Our safaris in Zanzibar are conducted by knowledgeable guides with deep knowledge of local culture. The safaris will include visits to the historical old town commonly referred t0 by the locals as ‘Mji Mkongnwe’. The best way to get around Zanzibar is by foot.  Other options include-motor taxi, motor cycle, bicycle, matatu.  Read more on Zanzibar Tourist Attractions

Zanzibar has some of the finest beach hotels and resorts in the world.   North Coast of Zanzibar is one of the most ideal place for beach holiday, relaxation and honeymoons.  The beaches of Nungwi boasts some of the most luxurious beach hotels.  Top of the range of the Zanzibar north coast hotels  are Diamonds Gemma Dell Est Resort,  Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel, Ocean Paradise Hotel, Double Tree Hilton Resort , The Z Beach Hotel, Diamonds  Star Of The East Hotel, and Sandies Mapenzi Beach Club/ Hotel.

Zanzibar East coast beach hotel include Mapenzi Beach Club,  Diamond Dream of Zanzibar Hotel,   Zanzibar Dream of East Beach Hotel, Blue Bay beach Resort and Spa, Sultan Sands Island Resort, Ocean Paradise Hotel, Sultan Palace Hotel, Panje By Night Hotel, The Palms.

Sweet Waters Tented Camp

Ol Pejeta conservancy inclusive of Sweet Waters Game Sanctuary occupies an area of 110,000 Hac. The conservancy is located between Mt Kenya and Aberdare national parks. Part of ol Pejeta’s attractions is its history.  Originally owned by Lord Delamere, Ol Pejeta has changed ownership several times. From Lord Delamere, It went to Roussel (Father in law of Christina Onasis) and later to Adnan Khasoggi. Today it is run by Serena Hotels. It has all the big five-rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard and lion. Also found here are chimpanzees, Grevy’s Zebra, Jackson’s Hartebeests anc cheetahs. Besides chimpanzee tracking and game watching, Ol Pejeta offer tree planting, bird walks, camel rides, cultural tours to Maasai Manyattas, safari sun-downers, lion tracking,

Sweet Waters Tented Camp (USD 150 PP sharing on full board) comprise thirty-nine luxury tents.   The tents are en-suite with private veranda overlooking the water hole. The central Rhino Restaurant features regional and international cuisine.  The Kashoggi Bar and lounge centres on a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar, a game-viewing hide, overlooks the waterhole offering unrivaled wildlife-watching.

Ol Pejeta Ranch House(USD 124-246 pp sharing full board depending on season) has a total of six suites and two private swimming pools. Originally the home of famed multimillionaire, Adnan Khashoggi, Ol Pejeta House is a beautiful private house set within the pristine calm of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. If one of your ambitions is to retreat back to history, to the bygone traditions of Kenya’s farmhouse hospitality, then the Ol Pejeta House is the place to stay. Accommodation -2 superior guest rooms with queen size beds, ensuite bathroom, dressing room and large balcony with excellent view of game teeming plains; 2 standard guest rooms with double bed, en suite with bathroom and terrace, Buffalo Cottage with2 Deluxe Rooms and a Fireplace.

Book Sweet Waters Tented Camp/ Ol Pejeta ranch House Email:  rnxploresafaris@gmail.com Tel +254 723 684 974

Hire your car at Nairobi Car Hire Company to visit Ol Pejeta

4x4 Car Hire Nairobi Kenya

Our vehicle Car Hire  / auto rental locations include-Nairobi City Centre Office, Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Coded NBO or JKIA) serving the whole of the country and Nairobi.  Other locations in Kenya include, Mombasa Town,  Moi Airport Mombasa (MBA), Malindi Airport (MYD), Kisumu, Nakuru, Nanyuki. They  open from 08:00to 18:00 hrs from Monday to Saturday.  Rental Cars can be returned at the point of pick up, at Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta (NBO) airport or at the hotels in either Nairobi, Mombasa or Malindi. In the rest of East Africa rental locations (locations des voiture) are Kigali (Rwanda),  Kampala , Jinja and Entebbe (Uganda),  Bujumbura (Burundi) Dares salaam, Dar es Salaam Airport (DAR), Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO), Arusha ( Tanzania) and Zanzibar.

Mother gorilla with twins

Tour Highlight:

• The genocide memorial of Gisozi where you get an insight into the history of modern day Rwanda- Pre-colonial Kingdom, the colonial period, the genocide and post genocide.
• Volcanoes National park where you experience the thrill of coming within metres of the massive mountain gorillas.
• Sightseeing in lakes Burela, Ruhondo and Kivu.

Duration: 4 days

Programme

Day1  Arrival, Kigali city and genocide memorial tours, drive to Kinigi for overnight

Day2  Breakfast, gorilla trek and tour lakes Burela and Ruhondo

Day3 Breakfast, gorilla trek and visit lake Kivu

Day4 Breakfast and drive back to Kigali, transfer to airport for home flight.

Accommodation at Kinigi and Prices pp for two sharing

• Budget at Kinigi Guest USD 1960.00
• Mid Range at Mt Gorilla View Lodge / La Bambou Lodge USD 2210.00
• Luxury at Sabyinyo Community Lodge USD 3452.00

Included

• Transport in 4×4 car for exclusive use
• Accommodation on full board-all meals included
• 2 gorilla permits per person
• Visits to lakes Burela, Ruhondo and Kivu
• All government taxes
• English/ french speaking guides

What to bring

• Hiking boots-not mountain climbers-anything hardy above the ankle is okey

• Gloves 

• Water proof container for your camera

• A warm cardigan

• If you desire to wear a headgear, a base ball cap is recommended

• Long trousers and long sleeves are ideal

To book this safari contact

R&N Xplorer Africa Safaris

Email: rnxploresafaris@gmail.com

Gorilla Tracking Families

here are seven(7) tourist groups-Susa, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Kwitonda, Group 13(Agashya), Umubano and Hirwa. To read more on groups or families visit  7gorilla tracking families or groups in Rwanda.

Encounter with Rwanda gorillas  and tracking tips

Gorilla tracking is a clean practice (eco friendly) which ensures minimal impact to the local community, the environment and the gorillas. Gorilla Tracking rules and regulations have been put in place for the safety of the trackers, the gorillas and to check adverse environmental impacts. Besides these rules and regulations guarantees the continued existence of the gorilla as species, that is to avoid the extinction of the gorillas. Read more or rules at Gorilla Tracking Rules And Regulations. (see our blog on gorilla tracking safaris)

4×4 Car Hire Kigali  Rwanda to track gorillas

Car Hire 4x4 Kigali Airport Rwanda

Our Car hire / rental locations (locations de voitures) include-Kigali City Centre Office, Kigali (Kanombe) International Airport (Coded KGL) serving the whole of Rwanda.  Other locations in Rwanda include Gisenyi, Cyangugu (Kamember Airport), Kibuye, Ruhengeri. They  open from 08:00to 18:00 hrs from Monday to Saturday.  Rental Cars can be returned at the point of pick up, at  Kanombe Airport, Hotels in Kigali, Gisenyi, Cyangugu, Kibuye.  In the rest of East Africa rental locations (locations des voiture) are Nairobi, Mombasa, Malindi (Kenya), Kigali (Rwanda),  Kampala , Jnja and Entebbe (Uganda),  Bujumbura (Burundi) Dares salaam, Dar es Salaam Airport , Arusha ( Tanzania) and Zanzibar.

The Park is located in Meru Country in Kenya’s Eastern Province below the eastern slopes of Nyambene Hills.  The Park lies 85 Km east of Meru town .  It is managed by  Kenya wildlife service on behalf of the Central Government.

The larger Meru conservation area is a cultural melting pot and the success of the Park depends on the generosity of the local communities. To the west of the park on the slopes of Nyambene hills are the agricultural Meru with hectares of Miraa (Catha edulis)   Tea and Coffee .  Other communities bordering the park are Kamba ,the Borana and Orma pastoralists.   A visit to the Park is not only about the big five experience but also a good opportunity to meet and interact with these communities, learn about their culture with long traditions of conservation. Always bear in mind that without their sacrifice, there would be no Meru Park.

Meru National Park can be visited throughout the year.  A visit to the Park is best combined with the nearby attractions.  These include the national parks of  Mt Kenya National Park,  Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba Reserve, Sweet Waters game sanctuary. 

Meru National Park can easily be combined with the private ranches of Laikipia, including Borana, Lewa, Ol Ari Nyiro, Lekurruki, Il Ngwsei, Ol Pejeta, Sweet Waters, El Karama,  Ole Lentille, Ol Malo, Loisaba, Mugie.    The ranches feature luxury private houses and eco-lodges of international acclaim.  The local community Eco-lodges in these ranches  include -Il Ngwesi, Borana and Tassia.  Other facilities include Lewa Safari Camp, Lewa House, Ol Pejeta Ranch House, Sweet Waters Tented Camp, Kitich Tented Camp, Elephant Watch, Laragai,  Mutamaiyu House, Loisaba Wilderness Lodge, Sabuk Lodge, Mukutan Retreat, Makena’s Hill, El Karama Bandas, Rutundu Log Cabins, Koija star beds, The Sanctuary at Ole Lentille and many others.

Our car  Hire  services / Car Rental company locations include-Nairobi City Centre Office, Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Coded NBO or JKIA) serving the whole of the country and Nairobi.  Other locations in Kenya include, Mombasa Town,  Moi Airport Mombasa (MBA), Malindi town, Malindi Airport (MYD) Kisumu, Nakuru, Nanyuki. They  open from 08:00to 18:00 hrs from Monday to Saturday.  Rental Cars can be returned at the point of pick up, at Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) or at the hotels in Nairobi, Mombasa or Malindi. In the rest of East Africa rental locations (locations des voiture) are Kigali (Rwanda),  Kampala , Jinja and Entebbe (Uganda),  Bujumbura (Burundi) Dares salaam, Dar Es Salaam Airport (DAR), Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO), Arusha ( Tanzania) and Zanzibar.

“Hello there!  We had a great trip.  I am back at school now.  It was a real pleasure meeting you and your wife.  Many thanks for making our trip so wonderful.  Please keep in touch”,  Kathy McIntire , http://www.eu.dodea.edu/

Though receiving this message from our guest inspired me to write, I discovered that I had few choices for words to describe this adventure.  Thrilling,  challenging, beautiful, hard, soft, inspiring all flooded into my brains.  I have to admit that the only way you can truly appreciate Rutundu log Cabins is by visiting.  Rutundu Log log Cabins and the adjacent lakes Rutundu and Alice enjoy a remote location in the middle of Mt Kenya National Park.  It a secluded, absolute escape for lovebirds, away from civilization and from it all.  Rutundu gained international fame as the place where Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge  proposed to the future Queen Kate Middleton.

Click to view slideshow.The morning of Jul 27th 2011 was a chilly.  Though it had not rained the previous days, it was threatening to drizzle and I and our tour guide Kirimi were wondering whether we will make it to pick our guests.  On a rainy day, it is a bit tricky to get to Rutundu even with a 4×4. You have to contend with sticky soils of Marania and Muchiene areas, not to forget that elephants can fell trees and block your route. To unblock the road can take the better part of the day.

From Meru we drove to Kiirua and branched to Kibirichia.  We drove past Kibirichia, Muchiene and entered Marania forest.  This is where we found elephants had felled one tree blocking the road.  Our help came from the un expected arrival of motor cycle riders who cleared the road and we passed on.  Driving up the road we came across a stone signposted Rutundu Log Cabins.  From this sign post you have undisturbed views of Ithangune hill, Lake Alice, the valleys below and the mountain peaks.  By the time we arrived in the moorlands, the sun was up and the day crystal clear and we were able to take some photographs.

Actually the signpost marks the end of forest and entry into the moorlands.  From here you drive for about two hours to Kathita gorge where your luggage is loaded into the cable cars for crossing.  All guests are advised to walk across the stream.  From the gorge, it takes about 30 minutes to walk to the Cabins.

The drive from the signpost to the cabins takes you via the most scenic route with clear views of the Mt peaks and the surrounding area.  You are likely to sport zebras, buffaloes or elephants within the forests or the moorlands.  Colourful flowery plants grace the moorlands.

On arrival at the Gorge, with assistance of the cabin staff,  our guests had already crossed and were waiting for us. We loaded their Luggage into the car, offered lift to one of the staff and drove back to Meru.

What to do / Activities At Rutundu Log Cabins

1. Fishing for rainbow trout
2. Hiking and walking on beautiful trails to lake Alice
3. Bird Watching
4. Horse riding from Kisima farm to Rutundu

To Book Rutundu Log Cabins Contact,

R&N Xplorer Africa Safaris , Tel +254 723 684 974 or email rnxploresafaris@gmail.com, info@gorillasafarisrwanda.com

A visit to Rutundu can be combined with nearby Laikipia community and private ranches. These include Il Ngwesi Community Ranch, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sanctuary at Ol Lentille, Loisaba Wilderness.

HIRE 4X4 TO VISIT RUTUNDU LOG CABINS

Nairobi Car Hire Toyota Land Cruiser | Car Rental Kenya Toyota Prado 4x4WD 

Our car  Hire  Services / Car Rental locations include-Nairobi City Centre Office, Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Coded NBO or JKIA) serving the whole of the country and Nairobi.  Other locations in Kenya include, Mombasa Town,  Moi Airport Mombasa (MBA), Malindi Airport (MYD), Kisumu, Nakuru, Nanyuki. They  open from 08:00to 18:00 hrs from Monday to Saturday.  Rental Cars can be returned at the point of pick up, at Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) or at the hotels in Nairobi, Mombasa or Malindi. In the rest of East Africa rental locations (locations des voiture) are Kigali (Rwanda),  Kampala , Jinja and Entebbe (Uganda),  Bujumbura (Burundi) Dares salaam, Dar Es Salaam Airport (DAR), Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO), Arusha ( Tanzania) and Zanzibar.

Rutundu Log Cabins, Mt Kenya National Park, a luxury accommodation facility 10200 feet above sea level. The cabins are self contained with log fires and en-suite bathrooms. To book the cabins email us rnxploresafaris@gmail.com

Rutundu log cabins also called Rutundu lodge enjoy a beautiful location overlooking Lake Rutundu in Mt Kenya National Park, surrounded by alpine country.  It is a private,  memorable hideaway,  a paradise for lovers away from public scrutiny.  Like Adam and Eve, in the Garden of  Eden, it you, your partner and nature.  Activities include trout fishing, fly fishing, horse riding, nature walks, Arial tours on Helicopters, hikes to nearby  lake Alice.

Lake Rutndu, Mt Kenya National Park. The lake is small, deep and the waters not very clear. However trout catch is superb with some weighing up to 6lbs. Averages of over 2 lbs are caught regularly. There is a small boat to take you round the lake.

The Rutundu Log Cabins comprise of  two separate log cabins overlooking Lake Rutundu.  Each features en-suite bathroom  with open log fires.  The bigger or main cabin has a sitting and dining room, a verandah (which is perfect for breakfasts), and a kitchen.  The other cabin  has a bedroom and bathroom. All bedding, towels, crockery, cutlery and cooking utensils are provided.  For comfort only a group of 4 people should use the cabins.  Four extra beds can be fitted in to make a total of eight when privacy is not a big issue.  Just like the Alaskan log cabins, they are made of large cedar log with moss filling in the cracks to keep them warm.  Floors are wooden.

Rates/ Prices of Stay at Rutundu Log Cabins .  USD 548.00 for exclusive use of 4 pax of less on self catering basis.  An extra USD 110 per person per day is charged for full board accommodation.  That means USD 768 for two persons per day or USD 988.00 for 4 persons per day on full board basis.  Please seek clarification as prices are subject to change.

Getting to Rutundu Log Cabins

You can fly from Nairobi Wilson to Rutundu Airstrip.   The airstrip is 1.5 km from the cabins.  The helipad is 100 meters from the cabins.  Scheduled flights are available from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Nanyuki.  From Nanyuki you drive for 3 hrs to the Cabins. Whether you drive from Nairobi or Nanyuki, your final destination is Kazita Gorge, 15-20 minutes walk to the cabins.  The cabin staff will meet and assist you with luggage.  To book your Helicopter flight to Rutundu contact R&N Xplorer Africa Safaris , Tel +254 723 684 974 or email rnxploresafaris@gmail.com.  Also contact the same for Helicopter Safaris within Mt Kenya and Laikipia.  Alternative you can  horse ride  from nearby Lewa Wildlife Conservancy or Borana Ranch.

Helicopter Tours

This Bird will take you to fly fish in Mt Kenya. The cost is about USD 2700 per hour. The price is subject to confirmation

Helicopter tours are very popular with the rich and famous who frequent this destination.  A helicopter trip will cost you on average USD 2700 per hour.  The rate is subject to confirmation.  You can arrange for pick up from your lodge.   Trips up the mountain are subject to weather conditions.

Lake Rutundu & Lake Alice Fly Fishing Trout

Fly fishing is superb at Rutundu and Lake Alice (12, 5000 feet above sea level) only 2000 feet above Lake Rutundu.  Lake Rutundu is small, deep and the waters are not clear thus making it more difficult to catch trout.  However fishing at the lake is superb with trout averages over 2 lbs being caught regularly.   Some over 3 lbs have been caught.  The lake also has punt to paddle around and fishing platforms.

In contrast Lake Alice has crystal clear blue waters.  The scenery around is beautiful with three peaks of Lenana, Batian and Nelion casting a dramatic backdrop.  The presence exotic vegetation of senecio and giant lobelia around the lake gives the location a surreal atmosphere.  Hiking from Rutundu Log Cabins to Lake Alice will take you from 45 minutes to 75 minutes of hard hiking.  However the dramatic appearance of the blue waters of the lake will melt away any tiredness.  Take your time to enjoy the outstanding beauty of the country side and an occasional sighting of various animals.  Lake Alice is named after.

Getting to Rutundu Log Cabins.

R&N Xplorer Xplorer Africa Safaris has organized several expeditions to Rutundu log Cabins.  From our offices in Meru Town, Rutundu log Cabins is approximately two hours driver away.

From Nairobi you can fly into Nanyuki Airstrip and we drive you from Nanyuki to Rutundu.  You can also drive from Nairobi to Rutundu.  You need to leave early.  Alternatively you can drive from Nairobi to Meru and drive further to Rutundu.

Another alternative is a helicopter ride to the the log Cabins.  What means you use, you will finally have to cross Kathita Gorge and walk to the cabins.  At Kathita Gorge is a cable car specifically for luggage.

To Book Rutundu Log Cabins Contact,

R&N Xplorer Africa Safaris , Tel +254 723 684 974 or email rnxploresafaris@gmail.com, info@gorillasafarisrwanda.com

A visit to Rutundu can be combined with nearby Laikipia community and private ranches. These include Il Ngwesi Community Ranch, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sanctuary at Ol Lentille, Loisaba Wilderness.