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Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Next Adventure ® Custom Tanzania & Kenya Safari Itinerary July 4 – 17, 2016 Arusha – Tarangire – Serengeti – Masai Mara – Laikipia Please consult your international air itinerary for details as it is subject to change and not included in your safari package. Your itinerary includes detailed descriptions and information pertinent to your tour and safari. Guide, bird and wildlife books and maps may be consulted to enhance your experience. The lodge, hotel and camp descriptions are those of the owners. Next Adventure cannot verify the accuracy of the descriptions or images used. Important Notes Regarding Entry Requirements (subject to change): Visas for US passport holders to Tanzania cost US $100 per person and may be obtained on arrival. Visas for Kenya may also be obtained on arrival for US $50 per person. Fees are payable in cash only and subject to change. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required to enter either country so it is recommended that you carry your vaccination card with you for this trip. Important: Please be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Also, you need at least 4 blank pages in your passport for visas and entry & exit stamps. Luggage Restrictions: 33 lbs per person As you will be travelling in small aircraft with limited storage capacity, your luggage is limited to 33 pounds per person, including carry-on, and must be packed in soft-sided bags. Any excess luggage may be stored in Arusha by prearrangement. SAFARI ITINERARY IN BRIEF 04 July: Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania, meet & greet then transfer to Lake Duluti Lodge (1 nt) 05 July: Shared flight to Tarangire National Park, game activities at Nimali Tarangire Lodge (3 nts) 06-07 July: Enjoy game viewing in Tarangire National Park with other guests of the lodge 08 July: Shared flight to Serengeti National Park’s Kogatende airstrip, transfer to Sayari Camp (3 nts) 09-10 July: Explore the northern Serengeti with other guests on game viewing activities 11 July: Shared flight to Masai Mara via Tarime, game drive to Mara Plains Camp (3 nts) 12-13 July: Delve into the game-rich Masai Mara area with your naturalist guide and other guests 14 July: Shared flight from Ol Kiombo airstrip to Loisaba via Wilson, transfer to Ol Malo Lodge (3 nts) 15-16 July: Shared game and cultural activities from your base at Ol Malo Lodge 17 July: Shared flight Loisaba-Nairobi, transfer to town for lunch and shopping before departing Kenya 04 July 16 Arrive Arusha, Tanzania On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (Precision Air 726 ETA: 17.50), clear immigration and obtain your Tanzania visa for US $100 per person (cash only, not included and subject to change). Collect your baggage and clear customs. In the International Arrivals area, you are met by a representative of African Horizons and transferred about 45 minutes by road to your lodge. Check in for your overnight stay in a chalet including dinner and breakfast at Lake Duluti Lodge.

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Page 1: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Next Adventure® Custom Tanzania & Kenya Safari Itinerary July 4 – 17, 2016

Arusha – Tarangire – Serenget i – Masai Mara – Laikipia

Please consult your international air itinerary for details as it is subject to change and not included in your safari package.

Your itinerary includes detailed descriptions and information pertinent to your tour and safari.

Guide, bird and wildlife books and maps may be consulted to enhance your experience.

The lodge, hotel and camp descriptions are those of the owners. Next Adventure cannot verify the accuracy of the descriptions or images used.

Important Notes Regarding Entry Requirements (subject to change): Visas for US passport holders to Tanzania cost US $100 per person and may be obtained on arrival. Visas for Kenya may also be obtained on arrival for US $50 per person. Fees are payable in cash only and subject to change. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required to enter either country so it is recommended that you carry your vaccination card with you for this trip. Important: Please be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Also, you need at least 4 blank pages in your passport for visas and entry & exit stamps. Luggage Restrictions: 33 lbs per person As you will be travelling in small aircraft with limited storage capacity, your luggage is limited to 33 pounds per person, including carry-on, and must be packed in soft-sided bags. Any excess luggage may be stored in Arusha by prearrangement.

SAFARI ITINERARY IN BRIEF 04 July: Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania, meet & greet then transfer to Lake Duluti Lodge (1 nt) 05 July: Shared flight to Tarangire National Park, game activities at Nimali Tarangire Lodge (3 nts) 06-07 July: Enjoy game viewing in Tarangire National Park with other guests of the lodge 08 July: Shared flight to Serengeti National Park’s Kogatende airstrip, transfer to Sayari Camp (3 nts) 09-10 July: Explore the northern Serengeti with other guests on game viewing activities 11 July: Shared flight to Masai Mara via Tarime, game drive to Mara Plains Camp (3 nts) 12-13 July: Delve into the game-rich Masai Mara area with your naturalist guide and other guests 14 July: Shared flight from Ol Kiombo airstrip to Loisaba via Wilson, transfer to Ol Malo Lodge (3 nts) 15-16 July: Shared game and cultural activities from your base at Ol Malo Lodge 17 July: Shared flight Loisaba-Nairobi, transfer to town for lunch and shopping before departing Kenya 04 July 16 Arrive Arusha, Tanzania On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (Precision Air 726 ETA: 17.50), clear immigration and obtain your Tanzania visa for US $100 per person (cash only, not included and subject to change). Collect your baggage and clear customs. In the International Arrivals area, you are met by a representative of African Horizons and transferred about 45 minutes by road to your lodge. Check in for your overnight stay in a chalet including dinner and breakfast at Lake Duluti Lodge.

Page 2: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Lake Duluti Lodge

Named after the crater lake it straddles, Lake Duluti Lodge boasts an idyllic scenery, mild climate and stunning architecture and design. The lodge offers 18 beautifully designed, spacious, contemporary African styled chalets, each ideally positioned for maximum privacy. All chalets face the coffee farm and each has a private deck with an amazing view of the ancient indigenous trees within the farm. The lodge offers world-class amenities, fine cuisine, eco-friendly practices, exclusivity, and personalized service.

Tanzania

Tanzania has a reputation for the beautiful extremes it holds within its borders: Africa’s highest mountain, largest game reserve, and three of its largest lakes, as well as a rich diversity of landscapes, environments and wildlife. Tropical forest, savannah grassland, mountains, white beaches and unspoiled wilderness characterize the landscapes of this splendid country. Tanzania offers one of Africa’s most glorious and plentiful displays of wildlife within its many scenic parks and reserves. Tanzania also has a fascinating rainbow of cultures in its 26 million inhabitants, including over a hundred traditional tribes such as the Maasai, Sukuma and Chagga. The land has been touched by countless peoples, from the first Bantu settlers migrating from south and West Africa, to Arab traders, whose trace still dominates the magical island of Zanzibar, and through Portuguese, German and British colonists. Tanzania finally gained independence in 1961.

The Town of Arusha One of Tanzania's most developed and fastest growing towns, the bustling ‘Safari Town' of Arusha is a hive of arrival and departure activity as countless 4WD safari vehicles load up with provisions and set off with their passengers into the endless, game-teeming plains of the National Parks. Established in 1900 as a minor German military garrison, Arusha lies halfway between the Cape and Cairo and was once a major trading post for the local Waarusha and Wameru tribes. Nowadays it is not only the country's most active tourism centre but also an important regional business and administrative centre and host to a colourful array of street markets, museums, craft shops, Makonde carving workshops, street cafes, restaurants and bars.

Page 3: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Climate Despite its proximity to the equator, Arusha's elevation of 1400 m on the southern slopes of Mount Meru keeps temperatures down and alleviates humidity. Cool dry air is prevalent for much of the year. The temperature ranges between 13 and 30 degrees Celsius with an average around 25 degrees. It has distinct wet and dry seasons, and experiences an eastern prevailing wind from the Indian Ocean, a couple of hundred miles east. The primary industry of the region is agriculture, with large vegetable and flower producers sending high-quality produce to Europe. Small-scale agriculture was badly hit by the coffee crisis of recent years and is now largely subsistence farming. Arusha has several factories including a brewery, tyre and fibreboard plant, and a large pharmaceuticals maker. Arusha is the sole source of a gem-quality mineral called Tanzanite, currently produced in large quantities by corporate mining concerns. Tourism is also a major contributor to the economy in Arusha, being the second largest contributor of income in Tanzania. Given the town's location near popular attractions such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha has become a popular staging point for tourists visiting Tanzania for photo safaris and hiking treks to Mt. Kilimanjaro. Many documentary and feature-length films have been set in and around Arusha, including the 1962 Howard Hawks film Hatari with John Wayne. 05 July Tarangire National Park, Tanzania After an Early breakfast this morning, check out from the lodge and transfer to the Arusha Airport for your flight to Tarangire National Park (ETD: 8.00, ETA: 8.30). Upon arrival at the Kuro Airstrip, you will be met by a lodge representative for a game drive to the lodge, arriving in time for lunch. Following afternoon tea, enjoy your first game drive this afternoon. Your three-night stay in a luxury tent at Nimali Tarangire Lodge includes all meals and game viewing activities on a shared basis.

Nimali Tarangire Lodge

Nimali Tarangire is an exclusive luxury lodge located on the eastern boundary of Tarangire National Park that is renowned for its stunning baobab trees and large concentration of elephants. The lodge is situated alongside the riverbed and well hidden amongst the acacia & baobab trees. Natural materials are merged with contemporary decor, to provide guests with a unique and unforgettable bush experience. The main areas comprise of a spacious lounge, library and a central dining area that overlooks the swimming pool and a waterhole that attracts wildlife. Selections of safari books are available for guests to read. Every evening, guests are able to relax in the lounge and have sundowners by the fireplace.

Under the personalized attention and care of our courteous and attentive staff, our guests are spoilt in every way; all their needs and comforts are catered for. Every effort is made to ensure that guests feel at home and have an amazingly unique Tanzanian experience.

Page 4: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

The lodge has six well-spaced tented suites with private verandahs overlooking the Sand River. From their private verandahs, guests can relax and unwind as they take in the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings. The tents are designed with a contemporary look, completed with fixed bathroom walls & wooden doors. They are comfortably furnished and have an en suite bathroom with hot showers and flush toilets. 06-07 July Tarangire National Park, Tanzania Spend two full days exploring this gem of a park by vehicle and on foot from your base at Nimali Tarangire Lodge. Other activities available are night game drives, Maasai village visits, and hot air ballooning.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park covers 2600 sq km of grassland and floodplains, and a large proportion of tall acacia woodland just south of the large open grass plains of southern Maasailand. Tarangire is beautifully unspoilt, and safari drives through the park enjoy wide views to distant variously purpled formations of volcanic mountain ranges. Tarangire boasts large herds of elephant and provides excellent habitat for lion, leopard, and buffalo. Herds of up to 300 elephants dig for water in the dry riverbeds for underground streams, while migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest and eland crowd the plains. Tarangire has regions of quite dense bush, but with high grasses and huge baobab trees. The land is hilly and dominated by the impressive valley of the Tarangire River, which attracts good numbers of migrant animals during the dry months, especially between July and September.

Page 5: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Tarangire Wildlife and Migration patterns During these months the concentration of animals around the Tarangire River is almost as diverse and reliable as in the Ngorongoro Crater, but the ecosystem here is balanced by a localised migration pattern that is followed by most animals other than lion, which don't tend to abandon their territory. The animals mostly disperse during April and May, when there is widespread greenery, vegetation and standing water to encourage all the grazers further afield. In June, the eland and oryxes begin to return, followed by elephant towards the end of the month. Tarangire is a great spot for elephant gatherings at the end of the rainy season in June, and zebra and wildebeest return together through July. By mid-August all the animals are congregating around their last reliable water source, the Tarangire River. The calving season falls in the early months of the year, through January, February and March, and so makes the most of the fresh grass during the rainy season.

Game Drives Game drives with professional guides providing great sighting and knowledge of the wild animals. Guests expect to see huge herds of Elephants, tree climbing Lions and also animals unique to East Africa such as Lesser Kudu, Fringe Eared Oryx & Grants Gazelle. Night Game Drives Night game drives are an opportunity for the guests to see the nightlife of the park and reveal the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa. Night game drives must be booked in prior to arrival in order to guarantee space. Walking Safaris Enjoy and learn about the nature and observe the wildlife with our experienced & knowledgeable walking guides along with an armed Ranger. Get up close and personal with the wildlife whilst taking a walking safari. Walking Safaris are best done in the morning and must be booked prior to arrival.

Fly & Bush Camping Fly camping is for those looking for an adventurous experience. It is a small and intimate lightweight camp setup in an exclusive area away from the main camp and usually booked as part of a walking safari. This must be booked prior to arrival at the lodge. Tarangire Balloon Safari Balloon Safaris are done in the mornings & must be booked prior to arrival at the Lodge. Maasai Village Tour The Maasai village tour offers an insight to the livelihood and culture of the Maasai people. Guests will have an opportunity to watch the Maasai sing and dance as they play an important role in Maasai culture. Tours can be organized and must be booked prior to arrival. Bird Watching Tarangire boasts a large number of birds. This can be booked with our professional guides.

Page 6: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Bush Lunch & Dinner Depending on the weather one must book a bush lunch and dinner. It is truly a magical experience. A private bush lunch setup while on safari is a delightful surprise and a memorable experience. While, a romantic candle light dinner under the star lit African sky is an experience not to be missed. Champagne Bush Breakfast Enjoying a champagne bush breakfast is the perfect way of starting your safari experience. 08-10 July Serengeti National Park, Tanzania This morning after an early breakfast, depart for Kuro Airstrip and your shared flight to Kogatende in the Northern Serengeti (ETD: 8.30, ETA: 10.00). You are met at Kogatende airstrip by a camp vehicle and transferred to Sayari Camp where you’ll have a three-night stay on a fully inclusive basis (all meals and activities). You have one afternoon and two full days to enjoy game drives with resident camp guides, offered twice daily, from your base at Sayari Camp.

Sayari Camp

Set close to the banks of the Mara River, and boasting dramatic views out across the wide plains of the northern Serengeti, Sayari Camp offers an exclusive window and unparalleled access to the greatest migration on the planet. And it does it all in remarkable luxury, with 15 tasteful hillside suites to retire to after a day of safari adventure. Intimate, stylish and elegant, it’s no surprise that this luxury Serengeti lodge is regularly voted one of the top safari escapes on the planet. This is the Africa you’ve always dreamed of. Situated in a remote, untouched corner of the Northern Serengeti, days at Sayari Camp revolve around discovering one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas. Unlike many other Serengeti lodges, Sayari is located just a few hundred metres from the dramatic Mara River, allowing rare early-morning and late-evening sightings of the migratory herds gathering on the Lamai Wedge or crossing the Mara’s treacherous waters. The camp’s expert field guides offer daily game excursions in modern off-road vehicles, getting you up close and personal to the myriad wildlife that call this wilderness home. Thanks to Sayari’s remote location other vehicles are rarely encountered, ensuring an authentic wilderness experience at any time of the year.

Sayari also offers the unique opportunity to experience the Serengeti on foot; with experienced guides leading walking safaris to add an extra thrill to your African adventure. While children are not allowed on walking safaris they’re certainly not forgotten, with indigenous askaris (warriors) in local attire teaching them the fine art of shooting the locally made bow-and-arrow. But, if time allows, you may just want to skip some of the game excursions. Spend the morning in camp getting reacquainted with a good book, or discovering the treasures that hide in our cosy library and bar. Sun yourself by the rim-flow pool, where you can still enjoy wonderful game viewing.

Page 7: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Indulge in a spa treatment from our expert therapists, or savour a leisurely lunch as you scan the horizon for signs of the resident game. In the afternoon, consider a visit to nearby Meruga Village to learn about the Kuria tribe, their culture, traditions and way of life.

Whether it’s adventure and excitement, or contemplation and rest, you’re after; Sayari has them all in abundance. Game drives, interpretative bush walks, walking safaris, bush breakfasts, picnics and dinners and cultural visits are some of the things you might choose to do while visiting this magical place.

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti is one of the largest parks in Africa, with a total area of 5,500 square miles. It is divided into two distinct geographic zones. In the south is the celebrated Serengeti Plain. Roughly 40 by 50 miles wide, the plain—which the Masai call Siringet, "the empty place"—is a vast sea of grass, punctuated only by outcrops of sensuously rounded stone (called kopjes). At Seronera, in the center of the park, grassland changes abruptly into "woodlands" that stretch northward through Lobo and the Kenya border. Woodlands also bound the western edge of the plain, extending through the long Western Corridor that takes the park boundary almost to the shores of Lake Victoria. These woodlands are not primarily dense bush, but open, tree-peppered savannas, among which are scattered small grass-covered plains.

Although the Serengeti grasslands support the most massive con-centration of animals, a greater diversity of vegetation enables the woodlands to sustain a wider variety of species. Trees and bush provide shelter to baboons and monkeys, forage for browsers as diverse as giraffe and dikdik, and shade for elephant and buffalo. Some species are present in tremendous numbers: an estimated 70,000 impala inhabit the Serengeti woodlands, and 20,000 buffalo are thought to live solely in the northern half of the park. 11 July Masai Mara, Kenya

Today after early breakfast, check out and transfer to the local airstrip for your scheduled flight to Masai Mara via Tarime (ETD: 9.40, ETA: 10.15). Upon arrival at Tarime, you will be met and transferred across the border to Migori where you will clear customs and immigration before boarding your onward flight to the Masai Mara (ETD: 12.05, ETA: 12.25). In the Mara, you will be met at the Ol Kiombo airstrip by your camp representative and proceed to Mara Plains Camp. Your three-night stay includes all game activities on a shared basis, meals, and accommodation in a luxury tent.

Mara Plains Camp

Mara Plains Camp is a one-of-a-kind, seven-tent camp located in the private 35,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, just on the northern boundary of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. This intimate camp blends the finest wildlife viewing with the absolute best of safari hospitality and guiding. No other camp offers the extensive traversing area of Mara Plains Camp, with access to a total of 100,000 acres of private conservancy land as well as the world-renowned Masai Mara, home to the Great Migration. Each guest at Mara Plains contributes considerably to the success of the Olare Motorogi Conservancy’s flourishing

ecosystem; conservation fees paid safeguard this habitat, while supporting over 1,000 Maasai families. This partnership agreement ensures the survival of an astounding volume and variety of wildlife.

Page 8: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

The camp is nestled in lush forest on the meandering bends of the Ntiakatek River, and careful thought was given to every detail. The camp is not an imposition on the landscape, but rather a subtle refuge among the wild. Its presence does not detract from the visual beauty of the ecosystem, but incorporates it with sweeping views across the plains and careful position among the riverine forest. It is captivating on arrival. The camp’s main area takes your breath away. After crossing the bridge, Africa is revealed. Positioned just so, the horizon lies ahead, punctuated by a single acacia tree. It’s the Africa of the mind’s eye. Flanking the main area is both a library and dining area, two places to enjoy life’s finer things. Flowing fabrics, open-air spaces and strong teak structures ground the space.

Each of the seven tents has deep canvas canopied ceilings, roughhewn wood floors and accents of East Africa’s rich safari history. Thick Lamu wood doors, deep purples, and brass accents – these small details transport guests to a time and land far away. The well-appointed en-suite facilities (including a deep copper bath) plus the extensive private verandah complete what is genuinely a stunning concept. These stylistic elements coupled with thoughtful environmental elements such as solar power and no cement make Mara Plains is a modern-day safari retreat. No two tents are the same, each named after the colorful Maasai people.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy is reputed to have the lowest vehicle density vehicles in the Maasai Mara region, while also having the highest concentration of big cats anywhere in Africa. There is only one guest bed per 350 acres, leaving the land unadulterated for the wildlife to roam and thrive, as nature intended. By day and night, the camp is a sanctuary for resident species, including many of the Masai Mara’s 300 bird species. After dark, larger mammals frequent the camp and Maasai warriors escort guests to and from their rooms. Hippos snorting and leopards barking often provide the night’s chorus. But most of all, Mara Plains is a showcase for one of the world’s most magnificent wildlife havens. And it must be done right. We believe in keeping the safari experience intimate and personal, so there is no set camp schedule or set meal times. The day’s activities and dining arrangements are tailored around guest preference and the wildlife opportunities of the moment.

Page 9: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Each guest tent comes equipped with a set of professional Canon camera and lenses. Add to it the pair of Swarovski binoculars, and it is impossible not to see and capture the region’s incredible wildlife scenes. 12-13 July Masai Mara, Kenya You have two full days to enjoy private game drives in the Olare Motorogi conservancy and excursions into the Masai Mara Game Reserve organized in consultation with your guide. All meals and accommodation are at Mara Plains Camp. Safari Experience Game drives (day & night) take place in some of the Mara’s most coveted vehicles. Each of the four Toyota Land Cruisers is open-sided, canopied and customized for photographers (fold-down screens, raised roofs, photographic bars, multi-plug invertors). With just four to six guests each, the Cruisers also have fully-stocked fridges stocked with drinks and snacks. No two days are the same on safari. Game drives typically start at sunrise, returning for lunch and depart again in the mid-afternoon before returning just after sunset. However, very often we will go out all day, deep into the Reserve or Conservancy with pack breakfast and lunch. Very often, our safaris will continue into the night, a possibility because of our location on a private conservancy. Night drives are particularly prolific in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, and while they take patience, sightings commonly include lesser known nocturnal mammals and even lion and hyena hunts.

Mara Plains also offers walking safaris. Feeling the soil of Africa beneath our feet is an enriching and invigorating way to safari, and we are lucky enough to be able to do this rare activity in Olare Motorogi Conservancy. Hot air ballooning is available, but should be booked in advance and is subject to availability and additional cost. Departures are very early in the morning to allow time to transfer to the nearest launching point. If a chance to learn about the Maasai is of interest, then cultural visits to a nearby Maasai village (locally known as an “enkang”) are also a highlight. Locally produced crafts are available for purchase at the camp, all proceeds of which go toward the community, and particularly the women’s groups and schools.

Page 10: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Each of Mara Plains’ guest tents has a professional Canon camera set, including a Canon 7D camera body and Canon 100-400mm and 24-70mm lenses. Photos will be downloaded to a DVD on guest’s departure. Each tent comes with a pair of Swarovski binoculars for guest use as well. Photographic tuition is available on request, either on company cameras or own guests’ personal cameras.

All photographs taken at Mara Plains by Kili McGowan

14 July Laikipia, Kenya Today after breakfast, check out and transfer to the local airstrip for your scheduled flight to Loisaba via Nairobi’s Wilson airport (ETD: 11.00, ETA: 12.15). Upon arrival at Wilson, connect to your onward shared light aircraft flight (ETD: 13.00, ETA: 14.25) to Loisaba where you’ll be met by a camp representative and proceed to the lodge. Your three nights at Ol Malo Lodge includes all meals, soft drinks, beer, house wine, laundy, day and night game drives on shared vehicle, Loisaba airstrip transfer, guided walks, horse rides, camel treks and Samburu Cultural visits.

Ol Malo Lodge

Situated on the northern edge of the Laikipia plateau, Ol Malo Lodge is nestled into a rugged escarpment looking out across the time-honoured lands of Kenya’s Northern Frontier District. An ancient land inhabited by wildlife and peoples of a time long ago, undisturbed and living by the rhythm of nature, there, as part of this untamed and beautiful landscape is Ol Malo – Place of the Greater Kudu.

An exclusive retreat, the camp offers four exclusive cottages with luxurious ensuite bathrooms and private verandas, a central dining area and lounge and private pool. Activities include: game drives (day and night), game walks, horse riding, camel rides, mountain biking and overnight stay at the look out by the waterhole.

Page 11: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

15-16 July Laikipia, Kenya

Explore the wilds of Laikipia and the surrounding communities of the Samburu people. This special family ranch and wilderness offers a wide range of game viewing activities and experiences for their guests.

Laikipia Stretching across the western flank of Mt. Kenya, Laikipia Plateau, gateway to Kenya's little-visited northern territory, isn’t in itself a national park or reserve, but it’s become one of Kenya's most recent conservation successes. It’s still free from the hordes of game vehicles and flashing cameras that are found in better known regions. Amid spectacular scenery, traditional ways of pastoral life continue side by side with an abundance of free-roaming game. This is high country, with altitudes from 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) to 2,600 meters (8,530 feet), so bring those sweaters and jackets. Habitats range from arid semi-desert, scrubland, and sprawling open plains in the north and south, to the thick forests of cedar and olive trees in the east. The area around the Laikipia Plateau has one of the biggest and most diverse mammal populations in Kenya—only the Masai Mara can boast more game. The Big Five are all present, plus the wide-ranging painted dogs; there's even a chance of seeing the rare aquatic Sitatunga antelope. Grevy's zebra, which is more narrowly striped than its southern cousin, was once hunted almost to extinction for its fine desirable skin, but is reestablishing itself well in the area. Ol Malo is situated in the deserts of Samburuland, Northern Kenya, on what was an overgrazed cattle ranch. The 5,000-acre holding has been transformed into a prime, and beautiful, conservation site. Being a family owned and operated ranch there is endless fun to be had from game drives and picnics to riding, walking, fishing, medicinal plant walks and learning how to survive like a Samburu…and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Kick off your shoes and relax in your own personal bush home, experiencing Kenyan life as we live it at whatever pace you choose. Camel Rides The camels are our workhorses, tough as nails and full of character. Enjoy Africa from a different vantage point, ‘rock’ through the bush on top of a camel – sit back and enjoy.

Helicopter Rides Ol Malo has their very own little Raven R44 helicopter based on the property and piloted by Andrew who has been all over Kenya by air and knows all the secret spots. Sundowners on granite outcrops, breakfasts by flamingo pools, fishing trips, and lunch in the deserts of the North…Kenya’s best-kept secrets are out there! Horse Riding Enjoy riding for all ages and levels from novice to advanced. Our tough homebred bush ponies of Somali/Ethiopian/Arab and Thoroughbred bloodlines range from 13hh to 16hh, they are strong, sure-footed and well accustomed to wildlife.

Page 12: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

Samburu Life In the heart of Samburuland Ol Malo works closely with the Samburu Tribe through the Samburu Trust to ensure their traditions survive in a changing world. In return for this they invite our guests out to see some of their traditional ways. Visit a ‘manyatta,’ to see their way of life and if you’re lucky watch warriors gather to dance.

Samburu Beading The Samburu Trust beading workshop gives the Samburu Mamas a way to support their families and develop their artwork. Admire the intricate beadwork at the workshop, pull up a cow-skin and try your hand at it. Ranch Life Ol Malo is a working family ranch and tries to be as self sufficient as possible. Learn about livestock caring, grazing and husbandry in this harsh environment. Play with the lambs, collect freshly laid eggs for your breakfast and lend a hand at milking the cows. Nomad Education Ol Malo is home to the Samburu Trusts’ first Nomad school. Take a peek at the Waldorf education system and join the kids on their walk to school.

Stretch Your Legs Walking, running, mountain biking; there are lots of ways to get some exercise and enjoy the bush. Kids can stroll on the plains and learn about spiders & stitching ants while their parents break out a sweat on an energetic walk. Or even better why not run with a Samburu warrior as you’re pace maker!

Sleep Under The Stars Spend a romantic night in the tree house under a blanket of stars; sleep in the leopard blind and listen to the noises of the night or fly camp on the river, lulled to sleep by an orchestra of frogs.

Page 13: Ross Safari Itinerary - Next Adventure · Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027 Climate Despite its proximity to the equator,

Next Adventure Inc. 738 Gilman Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1325 www.nextadventure.com 800.562.7298 or 510.526.7027

17 July Departure Today after breakfast, check out and transfer to the Loisaba airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Nairobi (ETD: 11.55, ETA: 13.15). Once on the ground, an African Horizons Representative will meet you and drive you to a city restaurant for lunch. You have a private vehicle and driver at your disposal for shopping and any sightseeing excursions you might wish to do on your last day in Kenya. All entrance fees and any dinner arrangements are payable direct. A dayroom to freshen up before your long flight is available at an extra cost and can be arranged and paid for direct, if desired. Later, about 3 hours before departure, you will be dropped off at the international airport for your onward flight, Emirates #722 (ETD: 22.45).

Next Adventure, Inc. We take safaris personally!

738 Gilman Street Berkeley CA 94710 USA

Tel: 510 526 7027 Fax: 510 527 0187

Toll Free: USA & Canada 800 562 7298 www.nextadventure.com

email: [email protected] California Licensed Tour Operator CST #2024489-40