SANDI’S ‘FINALLY – MY TRIP REPORT– TANZANIA & KENYA – MAY/JUNE 2005’
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34649458
An incredible, fabulously lengthy and detailed report on Sandi’s self-planned trip to East Africa along with her friend Eileen. It is full of great descriptions of some pretty unusual and intriguing camps and lodges, complete with detailed descriptions of the accommodations. (who needs those brochures when we have Sandi?) This report is full of ‘Into Africa’ stories that are both memorable and amusing. Places visited were Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Zanzibar, Nairobi, Laikipia, and Masai Mara. Pictures available on Kodak Gallery.

JAZZDREW’S ‘JUST RETURNED FROM KENYA/TANZANIA’ – JUNE 2005.
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34647066
There are lots of good hints and photo notes in this well-written descriptive family trip report by Andy, Arlene and their 11 year old son, Adam. With Roy’s Safaris (Tanzania) and Wildtrek (Kenya) as the operators on their private vehicle drive/fly safari, we can follow through with them on their trip from Amsterdam, Nairobi, Amboseli, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Staying at some of the upper-end lodges and camps in those areas, we are treated to some great descriptions of accommodations. Especially unique was their stay at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, as well as a post from Adam on his highlights as seen through the eyes of an 11-year old. Picture link is mentioned, but I couldn’t get to it.

JANGOSS’S ‘TRIP REPORT KENYA’ AUGUST 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34668517
On a repeat trip to East Africa, Jan treats us to a wonderful report of her private drive/fly trip in August with Southern Cross Safaris. As she travels solo from Amboseli, Samburu, Tsavo and Nairobi she tells us of all of her wonderful animal sightings in some very entertaining stories. You can tell how much she loves animals by reading this report.. Staying at lodges and tents throughout Jan makes us feel we are there with her descriptions of them.

ALWAYSAFRICA’S ‘TRIP REPORT PART 1: 26 DAYS IN TANZANIA’ - DEC 2004
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34569264
This is an incredible journal by a young couple that took a ‘remote’ trip of a different kind to Tanzania. Using East African Safari and Touring Company, their private drive safari took them to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro for game viewing, then on a 3-day trek (yes, on foot!) through the Crater Highlands, as well as a trek up Oldoinyo Lengai to see the sun rise. Resting up a bit in Tarangire NP, they were now ready for their next trek – a challenging 4 day climb up Mt. Meru. At the end was a well-earned one week beach paradise stay on the exotic island of Zanzibar. Accommodations ran the gamut – they ranged from a 2-man tent on a mountainside, to a luxury camp, and then finally a beach resort in Paradise. This really is a trip report not to be missed, even if you have no desire to have such a ‘remote’ trip!

LISA’S ‘JUST BACK FROM AMAZING TANZANIAN SAFARI!’ NOV 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34718139
Traveling with Good Earth on a private drive safari, Lisa gives us an amazing descriptive narrative of their 15 days sighting hundreds of animals and birds. And what is more amazing is that Lisa lists them all in her report, it truly makes you feel that you are right there with her sighting them. Their itinerary took them from Arusha, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and finally to Tarangire NP. Staying at mid to upper end lodges and camps, with a farm thrown into the mix, her descriptions of the accommodations and food also makes you feel you are there. A highlight is her encounter with the large green mamba snake at Mbuzi Mawe!.

PATTY & MARK’S ‘KENYA & TANZANIA TRIP’ – NOV/DEC 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34719569
This was Patty & Mark’s second trip to East Africa this year – their first trip was so incredible that they just had to go back! It was an ‘off-the-beaten-path’ private drive safari with Eastern & Southern Safaris as the operator. It is a well written report that will keep you reading until you finish, the details are amazing! Staying at smaller guest cottages/ ranches and tented camps, Patty and Mark’s travels took them from various places around and about Mt. Kenya NP, south through Aberdare NP, west to Nakuru, and finally southwest through Lake Naivasha to the Mara. Flying back to Nairobi for a night, and then on to Kilimanjaro for an intriguing 4 day stay at a farm for a horseback safari! Pictures on Kodak Gallery.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Lynda,

What a concept! So we all get a present as a result.

This is wonderful.

Thanks for taking the time to put this together, so thoughtful. And something we can all benefit from.

Definitely - a give to everyone!

Thanks so much for putting together this fabulous index to the wealth of data we have here.

Really appreciating your summaries.

This is great! Thanks for taking the time to put together this index, an ambitious undertaking. Really enjoyed your summaries as well.

Thanks Lynda. This is a wonderful Christmas present.

MARYNUS’ ‘HONEYMOON TANZANIA & PEMBA’ SEPT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34683315
This is a very witty, entertaining report of Luisa & Marijin’s 6 night honeymoon private drive safari to Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, Ndutu and the Serengeti with Tanzania Serengeti Adventures; followed by an idyllic 6 nights on the beach at Fundu Lagoon on the island of Pemba (off the coast of Zanzibar). It is an informative review; chock full of details on their adventures and their accommodations which included camps, smaller lodges and a farm. Highlights include some very interesting ‘scary stories’ as told to them by their overly-helpful guide! Links to photos on Snapfish.

TANZANIABOUND’S ‘JUST BACK FROM TANZANIA!’ SEPT. 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34688402
&
TANANIABOUND’S ‘TRIP REPORT FROM TANZANIA’ SEPT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34690692
In two threads, Heather tells us of her and Jeff’s exciting trip that takes them to London, Nairobi, Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Serengeti. This trip was the result of husband Jeff making good on a promise to take Heather to Africa someday if she promised to marry him instead joining the peace corps. (brought tears to my eyes!) The first thread is full of interesting tips for the safari, while the second thread describes the trip in wonderful details through the eyes of someone who had a dream to see Africa. It was booked as a budget group safari with 2Afrika; it gives good insight into this type of a trip. Links to photos on Snapfish.

CZ’S ‘ONE MONTH IN AFRICA PART 1’ SEPT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34679837
This is a short, but good trip report full of great animal sighting stories on a couple’s trip that started out as a one week self-drive trip in South Africa, and ended in East Africa. The EA portion was booked as a private drive safari with Nature Expeditions Int’l. Staying at higher-end camps and lodges in Kenya we gain insight into a few of them that do not seem to surface very often in reports – such as the Ark in Aberdare NP. In Part 1 we follow them from Cape Town to Jo’berg, Kruger NP, Nairobi, Aberdare NP, Samburu, Sweetwaters, and the Mara. Part 2 would encompass their stay in Tanzania, but at the moment does not seem to be available.

CLIMBHIGHSLEEPLOW’S ‘TRIP REPORT-SHORT’ JUNE 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34628643
This is a very informative report from Eben on-the-scene in Arusha! Having just been to the Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Tarangire and Ngorongoro we are treated to first hand up-to-the-minute reports of the lodgings and animal sightings. Eben gives us good insight into the migration patterns in the Serengeti in this thread as well as some good descriptions of some of the camps, lodges and hotels he stayed at. He has also given us four links to his incredible camp/lodge slideshows so that we can check out our lodges that we will stay at!
West Kilimanjaro Area:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34644698
Ngorongoro & NCA Lodges:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34644982
Serengeti camps & lodges:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34645281
Tarangire Lodges/Camps:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34644805




SONALI74’S ‘TRIP REPORT TANZANIA SERENGETI’ OCT/NOV 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34705490
This report is full of descriptions of some wonderful animal sightings on Sonali’s 7-night trip to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, while staying in three of the Wildlife Lodges. We are treated to some pretty exciting cat-sighting stories in this report, and for those of us who dearly wish to see them, it is encouraging to read that 84 different lions, 8 cheetahs and 3 leopards were sighted!

TO BE CONTINUED>>>>>>>>>

LyndaS:
Thanks for doing this.

LyndaS:
For the next ones would you add the name of the tour operator? So many posters ask about whether someone has traveled with a particular company.

duh, never mind. I see that you have it already; not sure why I thought it was missing.

SANDI’S PICTURE LINK TO GO WITH HER REPORT:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=eh6u2q5.2r1ih84d&x=0&y=-qa0w3ghttp://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=eh6u2q5.2r1ih84d&x=0&y=-qa0w3g
This is Sandi’s link to her pictures on the Kodak website as mentioned in the first Trip Report in this thread – the pictures are wonderful, and plentiful!

SUNNY_DAYS ‘KENYA, RWANDA & TANZANIA SHORT TRIP REPORT’ – SEPT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34688363
Lawrence, for his honeymoon, booked an incredible 3 ½ week trip with value operators – Raylene Tours for the first part, the second part with East African Safaris, and African Encounters for the Zanzibar portion. Starting in Nairobi, they drove first to the Mara, then drove back to Nairobi and flew to Kigali in Rwanda. Heading up to the Gorilla’s Nest they spent two exciting days watching two of the gorilla groups before flying to Arusha to continue on their safari through Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Highlands that included a trek into Empakai Crater; Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire and back to Arusha. Then it was on to the relaxing part of the trip that took in a few days at Stonetown, Zanzibar, and Mnarani Cottages at Nungwi. This report is full of photography tips and useful hints for safaris in general, as well as a ‘pull no punches’ honest review of his operators and the various lodges and camps they stayed at. Photo link is mentioned, but says it is not available at this moment. Lawrence, if you are out there, please post a new link as everyone would love to see the pictures!

MORE TO COME…..

WAYNEHAZLE’S ‘EAST AFRICA TRIP REPORT’ OCTOBER 2005
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34724552
(5 – minute version)
and
www.waynehazle.com/eastafrica/
(Full-length version)
The thread on Fodor’s is a ‘quickie’ version of Wayne and Mary Ellen’s fabulous first trip to East Africa thru Africa Point (Kenya & Tanzania) and RNXplorer (Rwanda) along with his parents Dorrel and Beryl. Bumping along on those ‘wonderful’ roads Wayne describes, we can follow their travels on safari from the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Amboseli, Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and finally an exciting gorilla trek in Rwanda. There are lots of fabulous and useful hints in his 5 minute report – BUT – don’t miss his full-length version – it is an incredible piece of art and wonderful reading! It’s the type of report that you will want to print out in colour (lots of pictures to go with the text) and read on buses, taxis, and in doctor’s offices. The highlight had to be ‘that looking thing’ – who would ever have thought that someone could still maintain their sense of humor after their car/jeep breaking down 6 times, especially in the middle of nowhere??? Pictures are on Wayne’s web site, see above link.

LIZ_FRAZIER’S ‘TANZANIA TRIP REPORT’ MARCH 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34595582 (REPORT)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34594708 (PICTURES)
Here is a very frank, and very informative report of Liz and Max’s final trip to Africa – they will still travel, but in her words ‘closer to home – less adventuresome trips’. Years ago, she writes, she married Max with ‘baggage,’ - a real love for Africa that has kept them going back at her insistence. ‘Time for Max’ now she says! Her report is an incredibly detailed report on their trip through Tanzania with Roy’s Safaris’. Taking them from Tarangire, Ngorongoro CA, Serengeti, and then back to Ngorongoro, she gives in-depth descriptions of the various camps and one lodge that they stayed at. A highlight is reading about their first class flights to/from Nairobi/States, Liz gives us detailed descriptions of those wonderful first-class Flagship Suites on AA’s international flights! Her pictures are on Kodak Gallery, see the second thread for the link.

EEZAM’S ‘OUR RECENT TRIP TO KENYA & TANZANIA’ NOV 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34714347
Eezam’s short, but very informative report on their private drive safari with Affordable Tours.Com/ Brendan takes us to Samburu, Lake Nakura, Masi Mara and then Nairobi. From here they fly to Arusha for the Tanzanian portion group drive safari with Rangers Safaris, taking them to Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, staying mostly at Serena and Sopa lodges. This report is full of delightful animal sightings, and a few helpful hints as well.

MARCUSBOXER’S ‘SAFARI TRIP REPORT’ DEC 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34723862
Marcus has given us a fabulous report of their safari with Africa Dream Safaris. Staying at upper end permanent, as well as mobile camps and tree lodges, their safari started with the ‘tourist circuit’ in Nairobi, flying to Kilimanjaro with stays in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Their trip finished with some historical sightseeing in Stonetown (Zanzibar) and then three ‘glorious’ days of doing nothing on Mnemba Island – a small, exclusive island off the island of Zanzibar.
STILL MORE TO COME……

RSNYDER’S (LGOUSTAY) “MIKUMI, RUAHA, SELOUS TRIP’ JUNE 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34649444 (report)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34656478 (photo links)
Having been already on the Northern Tanzania Route; Dick, his wife Darla and their 18-yr old daughter Beth decided to take a southern 11-night Tanzania fly-in safari with Foxes of Africa. Staying in Dar Es Salaam (hotel), Mikumi NP (banda), Ruaha and Selous NP (camps), Dick has written an incredible detailed and tip-packed report on their wonderful adventures on this trip. It is jam packed with lots of wonderful stories, details of animal sightings, the lodgings, the bugs, the group game drives, and even some thoughts on tipping. He has also given us very helpful details on pre-trip planning & arranging details, some packing details and great tips on cameras, camera accessories and money to bring. Highlights are his wonderful descriptions of the food in these camps, and the inter-flight details between the camps. Photos are linked in the second thread, but not the first address in Kodak Gallery given, scroll down to bottom of thread (Dec 2005) for the newest link to the photos. Bonus – Dick’s 2004 pictures of East Africa are there too!

COOKNDOC’S ‘TANZANIA REPORT #1 AND TANZANIA REPORT # 2’ JUNE 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34649247
and
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34650503

This is a very detailed, well written candid report from Howard of his private fly/drive trip with Ranger’s Safaris to Tanzania. Not quite finished yet, we are hoping that Howard does come back to finish, or direct us to the thread if it is finished, as we are all looking forward to reading more! In these two threads, Howard recounts his adventures from him, his wife and two daughters (19 and 22) leaving home, through London, to Nairobi and onto Kilimanjaro and their pre-safari in Arusha. There were a few bumps along the way, but nothing that didn’t easily get ‘forgotten’ in the background once they sighted their first animals in Arusha NP. The second thread describes their trip from Arusha to their Serengeti camp. Howard has given us great animal sightings and wonderful tips throughout the report. Link to pictures in Kodak Gallery in first thread; link in second thread not working at this time though.

MARIMARI’S ‘BACK FROM TANZANIA SAFARI’ MARCH 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34604031
This is a great descriptive report of Marilyn’s budget group drive safari with 2Africa to Tanzania. Staying at lodges throughout, Marilyn stayed in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. She has given us very good insight into a group safari, including some great tips and practical info on some items to bring along, as well as detailed descriptions of the food and the accommodations at the lodges. The report is crammed full of good advice and observations!

LISA’S PICTURE LINK TO GO WITH HER REPORT (earlier in this thread)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34728853
Here are Lisa’s fabulous pictures to go with her report. These pictures for sure will get everyone dreaming of going to Africa!

STILL WAY MORE TO COME……

Thanks again Lynda:
Did you notice how it came in handy when Leely refered someone to it recently?

Yes, Lynda, this must be a labor of love. Thanks so much. Things have slowed down at work post-holidays, and I'm re-reading a lot of these, just dreaming of East Africa.

Wonderful!

What did you do in your former life, now that you've have taken so much of, I'm sure, precious time for this project. Do tell!

Lynda, you have quite the talent for condensing quite a bit of information into a few sentences capturing the essence of each report. What a valuable service to anyone thinking of heading to our favorite continent. Thank you so much. Dick

Thanks guys, I do appreciate all the positve feedback! In my other life Sandi, I am an accountant/bookkeeper, and I think that is why I love reading these reports and writing about them so much - numbers are so cut and dry and logical, while writing is so creative. And there is a lot of GOOD writers out there I have found from these reports!
Reading these reports is also getting me through the days that I spend dreaming about the days that we will see all this for ourselves. Only 141 more sleeps...... And, I also am looking forward to writing my own report and adding it to this index!
Bat, I did notice that Leely referred to it, and also noticed that kimburu said he would like to donate a report to the index - waiting anxiously for the rest of his before posting the summary.

when you're finished with the East Africa index, will you be starting on other destinations? Zambia, Uganda, Namibia, South Africa? Thanks for all your effort!

Lynda

I am hurrying to finish my report but unfortunately I also have to work to make money for this year's trip and look after 8 cats and 3 dogs while my wife is away. Will be done by Sunday one way or the other - I will also post pictures to go with it when I have the time to learn how to do it. I am already using this thread as a reference for my current trip planning - and can confirm that the summaries make it really easy. I so much appreciate what you are doing.

Paul

Lynda

Thanks for this great work.

Can anyone recommend any tour operators for a trip to the Mara and other stops in Kenya for August. Please kindly email me at kgs@staker.com

Thanks

Kevin Staker, California

Lynda, thanks for taking the time for putting all the trip reports together, it is wonderful to relive all our experiences and memories once again. It's almost doing the trip once again, cheers, Sonali

NYAMERA’S ‘MY TRIP REPORT KENYA’ JUNE /JULY 2005
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34652401
Susanna gives us a fascinating account of her self-booked combination fly/drive/bus/taxi safari through Kenya. Not only traveling solo, but using no particular outfitter, Susanna relates her trials, tribulations and adventures of her safari. And, she had some exciting adventures! This report gives us the full spectrum, from the dark side of Nairobi in a wallet-snatching incident to the humorous story of her walk along one of the fences of Mbweha taking only an umbrella to defend herself against wild animals! Staying at camps and hotels, Susanna’s itinerary took her from Nairobi to Samburu, north to Lake Nakuru, the tropical island of Lamu, followed by Kiserian (southwest of Nairobi) and ending in Nairobi. The highlight of this wonderful report is her comment at the end “There are places outside East Africa I would like to see as well, but these are “wants” – East Africa is “need”. I am sure that would about sum it up for all of us! Link to pictures on Kodak Gallery in report.

LORIB1’S ‘KENYA/TANZANIA TRIP REPORT’ OCT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34697880
Lori and Greg celebrated their 10th anniversary by going on a private drive/fly safari in Kenya and Tanzania with Good Earth Tours. But wait until you see their pictures – you sure won’t believe they have been married 10 years, they look young enough to be ‘just married’! Staying in lodges and camps, and starting in Nairobi, their itinerary took them to Masai Mara, Arusha, Tarangire, a Masai Village, Olduvai Gorge, Ngorongoro NP, and Fundu Lagoon on the island of Pemba, off the coast of Zanzibar. Lori’s wonderful descriptions of the game drives and the animal sightings will make you think you are right beside them in the van; while her recounting of their three days at Fundu Lagoon will make you wish you were there! Link to photos is included in this thread.

CHEERFUL’S ‘TRIP REPORT: GAP MASAI MARA EXPERIENCE’ OCT 2005
And
CHEERFUL’S ‘TRIP REPORT: GAP SERENGETI EXPERIENCE’ OCT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34698150
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34703556
This is an incredibly fascinating report on a type of safari that we don’t get too many reports on – participation camping. Booked with GAP, Cheerful has given us a very good insight into what it would be like to ‘rough it’ in both the public and private campgrounds of Mt. Kenya, Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Meserani Snake Park (by Arusha), Lake Manyara, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Marangu (by Kilimanjaro). Sometimes on dirt, sometimes on grass, but always in a tent, Cheerful remains ‘cheerful’ throughout their 15 days. Only giving in once and upgrading the lodgings from a tent to a lodge when it was raining in Lake Nakuru, shows us the stamina these campers must have had! Giving us the stats on each campsite and the animals they sighted, as well as some very good hints and tips on the roads, the dust, clothes, luggage, lenses and other necessary things to bring, Cheerful keeps us glued to her report.

WAAAY MORE TO COME, STILL READING!

Matnikstym, I sure had to think about your question, but, yes, I think I would like to do an index on the other trip reports to the other African countires too - it would fun reading them! And, I could even write one for Namibia and one for South Africa myself! Good plan, probably when I come back in the summer from East Africa!

PATTY’S ‘KENYA TRIP REPORT AND PHOTOS’ JAN/FEB 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34566072
This is Patty and Mark’s report from their first trip to East Africa – and you can feel the excitement they felt as you read this very descriptive, wonderful detailed report. Eastern & Southern was the outfitter that they used, as they traveled by road (private vehicle), throughout from Sweetwaters, Tsavo, Amboseli and then to Nairobi. Staying at tented camps for the first two, a lodge in Amboseli and a hotel in Nairobi, Patti give us an incredible description of their safari and some of their adventures, including details of the ‘tourist route’ in Nairobi. Within the thread Patty also gives us good insight and some very useful tips into ‘frequent flyer bookings’ on the air travel to and from Nairobi – no one knows maps, routes and air routings and bookings like our Patty! Four photo links to pictures in Kodak Gallery are included in this thread.

SERENGETI’S ‘TANZANIA – TRIP REPORT’ MAY/JUNE 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34642821
In this incredibly detailed report, Vijay recounts his exciting impressions of his first time trip to East Africa along with his wife. With Roy’s Safaris as their private drive outfitter, their travels took them from Arusha, Ngiresi Village, Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and back to Arusha. Staying at lodges, Vijay gives us an outstanding report on lots of different aspects – a food critique as a vegetarian, photo equipment, tourist etiquette and responsibility and some pretty good tips in general. Photo Links are mentioned throughout the report, after each section.

KIMBURU’S ‘KENYA TRIP REPORT FROM MEAT’ AND
‘TRIP REPORT PART 3 BY COOKED CHICKEN’ DEC 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34730608
and
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34731332
In both of these threads, Paul gives us a very humorous and very detailed report of his and his wife’s first African adventure – note, first, as they are already planning a second trip for this year. As we speak Paul’s wife is calculating how many Louis Vuitton bags she can give up for each night of the trip. Being adventurous, and trying to please his wife who wasn’t sure at all about this trip, Paul booked it partially with Eastern & Southern Safaris, partially with Let’s Go Travel, and the rest left up to ‘chance’ while in Africa. A real mixed bag! And that did indeed hold some challenges, which they seem to have taken in their stride. Their itinerary, staying at lodges and hotels all the way, took them from arriving very hungry from their flight from Dubai in Nairobi, to the Maasai Mara for three days, to Lake Nakuru, Lake Baringo, and Mount Kenya National Park and back to Nairobi. The highlight of his adventure had to be his dealings with ‘G’ (Gibson, the safari man) who they came across in Lake Nakuru and seemed to be ‘stuck’ to them over the next 6 days!

READING, READING, READING STILL - CK BACK FOR MORE SOON.....

PHILW’S ‘KENYA TRIP REVIEW AND PHOTOS’ AUGUST 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34674495
In this report, we can follow Phil, his wife and his two daughters (11 and 13 yrs) around Kenya on their self-booked ‘return’ trip to East Africa. Having fallen in love with before, Phil picked two select spots for his family to extensively explore, and relax instead of going from park to park. First staying in Nairobi with friends, they then flew to Samburu for 4 nights at the Serena Lodge, followed by 5 nights in the Masai Mara, again at the Serena Lodge. Phil’s fabulous descriptions of his game-viewing highlights are awesome – they saw cats, cats, and more cats! Photos are on Kodak Gallery, follow the links mentioned at the end of the report, not the ones at the beginning. Don’t miss them though, as Phil’s migration pictures are awesome, as well as all of the pictures of the many cats they saw.

JANGOSS’S ‘KENYA TRIP REPORT 1/22 – 2/11’ JAN/FEB 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34567725
This is an earlier (as opposed to the one mentioned at the top of this index) report from Jan, this particular trip was her seventh to Kenya! Self-booked, Jan flew from Nairobi to Amboseli to spend a week with her elephants and their researcher friends, where she was lucky enough to see Echo, one of park’s most famous matriarchs. From here Jan flew to Samburu, Mombasa and finally Tsavo for more game viewing. Staying at both camps and lodges, one camp of interest to fellow Fodorites would be the Elephant Watch Camp in Samburu. Jan’s love for animals is very evident throughout this report as she gives us travelers-to-be some good pointers on animal viewing etiquette and also a few eye-openers on the way some of the animals are treated in the wild. Jan also gives us some good location (location, location, location!) pointers for Amboseli lodges and camps. Link to photos on Ofoto (now Kodak Gallery).

CLIMBHIGHSLEEPLOW ‘TRIP REPORT OF A DIFFERENT KIND – TANZANIA’ NOV 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34711271
Eben gives us a fabulously detailed report on up-to-date information on the Mara migration patterns, a Google Earth maps update (see his web site www.go-safari.com – fabulous site!), and best of all – up to the minute reports on loads of camps, seasonal camps and lodges in Tarangire, Loliondo (borders the north-eastern Serengeti), Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As per his disclaimer, this is not a typical safari report, it was to update the GPS/lodge/road info on his site and see new safari routes. Eben definitely proves to us that once Africa gets in your blood it just WON’T wash out.

morereports, of course, to come....

AMF’S ‘REPORT ON HONEYMOON WITH ATR’ OCTOBER 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34701084
This is a candid, detailed review of amfs’s honeymoon trip booked through ATR. Their itinerary was: Arusha (Moivaro Coffee Lodge), Tarangire (Mawe Ninga), NCA (Gibbs Farm & Olduvai Gorge Camp), Serengeti (Serena) and Zanzibar (Pongwe Beach, Matemwe Beach Village, Chumbe Island & Emerson & Green). Amfs provides us with a great deal of detailed information and frank, honest reviews of their outfitters, camps, lodges and bungalows. You will also find a good discussion on box lunches here – if anyone has wondered what is usually in them, read this thread! Two highlights in the thread have to be the story on Olduvai Gorge Camp’s newly hired dishwashers; and the souvenir that amfs and her husband brought back from the Moivaro Coffee Lodge!

VACATIONBENNETT’S ‘KENYA/TANZANIA’ SEPT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34691922&start=0&dirtyBit=1

Corbin and his wife have given us an awesome tip-packed detailed report on their first trip to East Africa. Booked as a private drive/fly tour with GOOD EARTH, their Kenya operator was Safari Line, while Good Earth handled the Tanzania portion and Zanzibar Tours handled the Zanzibar portion. Their itinerary took them from Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel) to Lake Nakuru (Sarova Lion Lodge), Mt. Kenya Safari Club, Sweetwater’s (Tented Camp), Samburu (Serena Hotel), Maasai Mara (Sopa Lodge), and Zanzibar (Serena Hotel and Matemwe Beach). He has given first-timers some really good tips, and has debunked some of the myths that we all hear before going on our first safari. It is an honest, humorous report with answers to some of his own unanswered questions as well as some very entertaining stories – note especially the part where the plane gets a flat tire and the pilot has to change it! Use the photo link at the end of the thread to view his incredible photos on Kodak Gallery – the highlight has to be that Zanzibar cat! (I am going to Zanzibar in June setting out to find that cat and bring it home!)
NB- that photo link is not working at this time either, but we are working on solving that!

LEELY’S ‘BACK FROM TANZANIA-THANK YOU!’ JULY 2004
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34515035
Leely opens her report with ‘not a trip report’, but under pressure from the rest of the Fodorites she gives in and posts a trip report, much to every one’s delight. Her safari with her friend was a low budget, last-minute adventure camping trip/drive-only safari booked through EASY TRAVEL, using a local operator she found on TATO. From a ‘not so nice but clean’ guest house in Nairobi, Leely and her friend take a shuttle with to Arusha (Impala Hotel) to start their safari. Along with their private guide, extended Land Rover and a cook, they made their way through Tarangire (campsite), and other spots in Tanzania. It’s not finished yet, but even at this later date, we are hoping Leely will finish it!

KIMBURU’S PHOTOS TO GO WITH HIS ‘FRESH MEAT AND COOKED CHICKEN’ TRIP REPORT LISTED PREVIOUSLY
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34738448
Here is the link for Paul’s wonderful photos that he has posted on Kodak Gallery for us. His wonderful humour even shows through in his comments on the pictures!

MORE TO COME....
(Didn't think I'd find that report, right Leely??)

Hi LyndaS
We enjoyed your index of reports and thank you for your efforts. My wife and I along with another couple, all over 65, are planning a three week trip overland and air with ATR for August 2006 through Tanzania including Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Katavi and Mahale Mts.,stop off in Victoria Falls for two days and then two fly in camps in Boswana. These trip details puts our minds at ease and has raised our enthusiasm for our first and probably only trip to Africa. Thanks again, Ed & Carolyn

DORISH34’S ‘OCTOBER TRIP TO KENYA, TANZANIA & UGANDA OCT 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34729392
Dorish34 has given us a very short, but helpful report on their trip booked through UNITED TRAVEL GROUP. The local guides they used were RANGERS and POLLMANS for Kenya and Tanzania, while Uganda was handled by Ngamba Island’s own tour company. Although the exact itinerary is not mentioned, Amboseli (Ol Tukai) as well as Ngamba Island in Uganda is.

SARGE’S ‘SAFARI REPORT – THANKS TO ALL’ FEB 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34588114
This also is a short, but very informative report on Sarge’s 3-day safari to the Mara (Sarova Mara Camp) while visiting Mombasa. He has given us very informative animal sighting descriptions – don’t miss his vivid observations of mating lions – as well as some very informative tips on the clothes they took, how his cameras and the binoculars worked for them, and how he made good use of all the info Fororites gave him before he left.


DIVEWOP’S ‘RWANDA, KENYA AND UGANDA TRIP REPORT’ FEB 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34579619
Divewop has written an exciting and incredible report on her solo trip booked through VOLCANOES SAFARIS; with the ground operator DIAN FOSSEY FOUNDATION for Rwanda and Uganda, and the three days at the beginning and end in Kenya added by herself. After a night in Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel), and three nights on safari at Chyulu Hills (Camp Ya Kanzi – Chyulu Hills borders Tsavo), Divewop then begins her exciting gorilla-trekking adventure with Polly (her new roommate) and three others in Kigali, Rwanda. After heading up to the Virunga Mountains (Gorilla’s Nest Lodge and Volcanoes Virunga Lodge), we experience the thrill the description of three treks to see three different groups! (Susa, Amahoro B and Group 13). The report ends here, but someday we all hope she will finish the Uganda and Mara portion. It is an incredible report, packed with useful information on the treks, how they work, how they rate on a ‘tough’ scale, and also some very descriptive observations on the socio/economic life in Rwanda. The highlight was reading about the ‘pushy gorilla’ when one actually touched her! (‘outa my way, lady, I have places to go!’)


JULES39’S ‘TRIP REPORT TANZ/KENYA’ FEB 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34581453
Jules tells us all about her fabulous trip, a return to Africa for her, but first time for her husband. Booked through 2AFRIKA as a group safari, the ground operators used were PREDATORS in Tanzania and NAKED WILDERNESS in Kenya. Their itinerary took them from Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Amboseli, Mt. Kenya NP (Serena Mountain Lodge), Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara (Sienna Springs Tented Camp). Jules gives us good details of how the group situation works in the vehicles, as well as descriptions of their many animal sightings, and some candid observations of their guides and ground operators. As a bonus, there is a very informative posting from someone else on the wildlife situation and sightings in Namibia.

50SOMETHING’S ‘TRIP REPORT’ JAN 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34740106
This is a very informative report on 50something’s trip, along with his wife to Tanzania. Booked through DUMA EXPLORER, their travels took them from Arusha (Impala Hotel) to Tarangire (Oliver’s Camp), Ngorongoro Crater (Sopa), Serengeti (Ndutu Lodge and the Sopa Lodge) and Lake Manyara (Kirurumu Lodge). There are plenty of details in this report on the lodges, hotels and camps they stayed at, along with some good observations on the roads, the food and the staff at the lodges. 50something also brings up some very good points as suggestions for the Tanzania Tourist Authority on road improvements and bathroom/public area improvements. We hope they are reading this report and take his suggestions to heart!

LISASC’S ‘TRIP REPORT FROM 12-22 TO 1-5 TRIP’ JAN 2004
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34466030
Lisa has written a short, but informative account of her and her husband’s trip to Tanzania booked through BUSHTRACKS, with NOMAD TANZANIA as their ground operator. From Arusha (Rivertree Inn) their safari took them to Lake Manyara (Tree Lodge), Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Plantation Lodge – as the Serena was overbooked), the Serengeti (mobile tented camps in the Ndutu area and the northern part) and back to Arusha (Rivertree Inn). There are plenty of animal sightings in this report to keep all of us animal lovers dreaming!\


TC’S ‘SAFARI IN KENYA & TANZANIA – A REPORT ON CAMPS, PARKS, TIPS, PACKING AND PHOTOS’ JAN 1999
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=102661
Even though this report goes back to 1999, it is definitely one that should be read by anyone going on their first safari – it is an incredibly detailed and informative report with plenty of packing tips, camp, lodge, money, photo and more tips in general. (just like the title says – TC sure didn’t lie!) TC booked his upscale small group/mostly-flying safari with BIG FIVE INC. Starting in Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel), they drove to Arusha, flew to the Serengeti (Kirawira Tented Camp), Ngorongoro Crater (Serena Lodge), Tarangire (Oliver’s Camp); back to the Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel), flew to Samburu (Larsen’s Camp), Mt Kenya Safari Club, Maasai Mara (Little Governor’s Camp) and ended up back at in Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel). TC has given us some wonderful details on all the camps and lodges, the costs of the trip, the vehicles, the animal sightings, clothes, meds, bugs, - the whole works!

ROLNGSTN’S ‘THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME!’ JAN 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34561632
Nancy has given us a short report on her adventures in Tanzania with FRIENDLY PLANET. Although there are no specifics on lodges, camps or parks, she has listed a few highlights of the trip, as well as some really point-forward general hints, such as ‘If you think you are prepared for bad roads, think again.’ That comment alone persuaded me get some of those inflatable seat cushions from Magellan’s! There is also a good discussion on the ‘earth-tones’ versus the ‘bright colours’ for clothes in this thread.

SUSANLYNNE’S ‘KEN/TANZ. TRIP REPORT PART 1, 2, AND 3’ OCTOBER 2004
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34540488 (Part 1)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34540520 (Part 2)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34540562 (Part 3)
In three separate threads, SusanLynne gives us an in-depth trip report of her and her husband’s very special return trip to Africa. Well written, this report reads like a good book – in SusanLynne’s own words ‘it comes from the heart’. Traveling back to Africa, they carried her mom’s ashes to disperse over the land, it’s guaranteed you will have a tear in your eye when you read about Momma Irma. Their itinerary took them from Arusha (a friend’s house), to Tarangire (Kokoti Camp), Lake Manyara (for a game drive only), Karatu (Plantation Lodge), Ngorongoro Crater (Serena), and the Serengeti (Serena Lodge, Migration Camp, and Klein’s Camp.) There are lots of details and amazing stories on animal sightings, lodgings, as well as some really good info on Elsa, the lion of the ‘Born Free’ fame.

FREDDY123’s ‘KENYA-TANZANIA SAFARI DETAILED TRIP REPORT’ JULY 2004
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34515385
Here is a really detailed trip report from Freddy on his self-booked group drive African safari, using BEST CAMPING TOURS in Nairobi for the Kenya ground operator, and TANZANIA SERENGETI ADVENTURES in Arusha for the Tanzania portion. With a good mix of camping and lodges, Freddy and his wife started in Nairobi (PanAfric Hotel), drove to the Mara (Best Camping Campsite), Lake Nakuru (Hotel Stem), Amboseli ( Amboseli Lodge), Arusha (Arusha Cottage), Tarangire (Tarangire River Camp & Sopa Lodge), Ngorongoro (Sopa Lodge), Serengeti (Sopa Lodge) and back to Nairobi. Freddy describes some great animal sightings, as well as giving us some great tips, some lodge descriptions and a section of ‘what worked and what didn’t’ that contains all sorts of good details for us!

Stay tuned, believe it or not, I am still reading....

SCHLEGAL1’S ‘TANZANIA AUG 2005 TRIP REPORT – SAFARI PORTION’ AUGUST 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34666728
This is an excellent, very detailed report from Schlegal1 of her trip with her husband to Tanzania, booked with ROY’S SAFARIS. Planned by her husband as a surprise trip after she graduated law school and passed the Bar, Schlegal1 has given us a well laid-out report with lots of juicy information on the booking operators, the food, parks, lodges, cameras, clothes, and vaccinations – the whole works! Their trip took them from Arusha (Mt Village), Tarangire (Kikoti Camp), Ngorongoro Crater (Serena), to the Serengeti (Serena & Migration Camp). Photos are on Snapfish, link is included in the thread.

THIT_CHO’S ‘UGANDA AND RWANDA TRIP REPORT’ AUG 2003
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34444009
This is an incredible report from Michael on his ‘off the beaten path’ trek to see the gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. Booked through VOLCANOES SAFARIS, Michael overnighted in Nairobi (Stanley Hotel); flew to Entebbe, Uganda and met up with his guide Frederick. Their first stop was Queen Elizabeth National Park (Mweya Safari Lodge) for a chimpanzee trek, followed by Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for a gorilla trek. Driving to Ruhengeri, Rwanda (Mountains Gorilla Nest), Michael went on another gorilla trek, drove to Kigali, flew to Nairobi, and then drove to Samburu NP (Serena Lodge) for a few days on safari. This trip report will surely make you book your own trip to see the gorillas!

RUTHIEC’S ‘ TANZANIA SOUTHERN CIRCUIT REPORT’ JUNE 2003
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34489525
This is a report of Ruth and her husband’s awesome trip on the not-so-well-traveled southern circuit in Tanzania. Booked through FOXES OF AFRICA, they drove to Dar Es Salaam to Mikumi NP (Fox Camp), flew to Foxes Farm (60 miles s.w. of Iringa), and then on to Ruaha NP (Ruaha River Lodge). Ruth’s husband has given us very detailed camp and game drive descriptions along the way in his journal. A bonus is the discussions on Foxes of Africa after her report, it gives us good insight into how their camps work, and how concerned they are for everyone having a good experience with them.

ALARRYB’S ‘TANZANIA AND THE CRATER’ (7 THREADS) MAY 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752882
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752871
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752872
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752874
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752878
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752879
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34752890 (PICTURE LINK)
Larry and Donna have written an excellent, very detailed day by day journal on their 10 day adventure into Tanzania. Booked through AFRICA DREAM SAFARIS, using TANZANIA EXPEDITIONS as their ground operator, from Kilimanjaro (Kilimanjaro International Airport Lodge) they first flew to the Serengeti (Kirawira Camp, Seronera Lodge and a private luxury tented camp) and met their private driver/guide, Simon. Staying for a few days in each of the three sections of the Serengeti afforded many incredible game sightings on their runs, as well as a ½ day trip to the tiny village of Rimaldi on the shores of Lake Victoria. Moving on, they drove to Olduvai Tented Lodge, and, along with the very friendly resident genets, stayed for a few nights, before moving on to Ngorongoro Crater (Serena Lodge and Crater Lodge). Their final night was at Plantation Lodge, with a final game run at Lake Manyara. Donna has written very detailed descriptions of all of their lodges and camps, as well as the food that was available at each of them. A selection of their wonderful photos are available on Smugmug, see the last thread for the link.

MATT_FROM_ENGLAND’S ‘A PHOTGRAPHIC JOURNAL FROM TANZANIA’ JAN 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34736285
Matt has given us a short, but good description of his Mt. Kilimanjaro climb, followed by a down to earth camping safari that took in Ngorongoro (Simba Public Campsite), the Serengeti (Seronera Public Campsite), Olupai Gorge (Mosquito River), Longido and then back to Arusha and Nairobi. Matt gives us some pointers on the local banana beer, as well as some options of good places to eat and buy a few ‘alcoholic supplies’. There is a link to his awesome pictures of the climb, and the safari at the beginning of the thread.

TOSHI’S ‘KENYA/TANZANIA TRIP REPORT DEC 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34745146
This thread is an introduction with a link to Andy & Jennifer’s first trip to Africa on a private drive safari booked through SAFARILINE, with ground operators TRANSWORLD in Kenya, and SHIFTING SANDS In Tanzania. In the thread Jennifer gives us great summaries on their flights, vehicles, immunizations, food, pictures and a brief overview of the lodges and camps they stayed in. After arriving in Nairobi (Serena Hotel) and staying the night, their itinerary took them to Amboseli (Serena Lodge), Tarangire (Kikoti Tented Lodge), Lake Manyara (E Unoto Retreat), Ngorongoro (Serena Lodge), Serengeti (Serena Lodge) and Arusha (Kigongoni). In the thread there is a link to their web pages (LOVE the name of their site – ‘Why We Work’!) that has an incredible detailed diary of their trip, audio of Maasai songs, and their pictures. It’s a great read, full of detailed descriptions of the lodges and camps, the food, the roads and the game runs.

MW123’s “KENYA & TANZANIA” NOV 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34683516
Here is a trip report with a different perspective – Maria starts out on this thread in Sept 2005 with two tickets to Nairobi and no other plans. With the help of those incredible regular Fodorites - Michael, Patty, Leely and Sandi, Maria puts together a great trip for her and her husband which covers Kenya and Tanzania! At the end of the thread, Maria tells us about her trip arranged through KANIA TOURS and AFRICAN TRAILS – starting in Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel), and driving to the Maasai Mara (Kania Tours tented camp), Lake Najuru (a charming colonial guesthouse), Arusha (a Lutheran Hostel), Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara (different Lutheran hostels), and then flying to Zanzibar (Matemwe Baharini Bungalows) for a little taste of paradise. There is a link to her pictures on her website mentioned in the thread.

TORDENMALM’S ‘TANZANIA TRIP REPORT’ JAN 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34741005
Stefan has written a very good descriptive trip report of his & his family’s safari on the Northern Tanzania circuit. Booked as a private drive/fly through ROYS SAFARIS, their itinerary took them from Arusha (Impala Hotel), to Ngorongoro Crater (Serena Lodge), and the Serengeti (Ndutu Lodge). After flying back to Arusha, they flew to Pemba Island (Manta Reef Lodge) and then spent a few days in Stonetown, Zanzibar to finish off. Stefan has posted some of his incredible pictures on his website, there is a link mentioned in the thread.

SARVOWINNER’S ‘TRIP REPORT RTW TANZANIA/SOUTH AFRICA’ DEC2005-JAN 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34744998
Just before Christmas, Sarvowinner and her husband Tony started out from their home in Australia and set about going around the world on an incredible trip. Flying east from Sydney to Toronto, they spent Christmas with their 14 year old daughter and Sarvowinner’s brother and his family. From here, taking their daughter Caitlin along, they flew through London to Dar es Salaam, where they began their wonderful Tanzania safari booked through AFRICA TRAVEL RESOURCE (ATR). Starting in Arusha ((Moivaro Lodge) their overland trip took them to Karatu (Gibbs Farm), a game run in Ngorongoro Crater, Oldupai Gorge (Olduvai Tented Camp), the Serengeti (Ronjo Flycamp & Ndutu Lodge), back to Ngorongoro Crater (Serena Lodge) and Arusha. After flying to Zanzibar (Pongwe Beach & Dhow Palace) for some nice relaxing days, they flew back to Dar es Salaam for their South African adventure in Durban and Capetown and Victoria Falls. Still flying east, from here they headed back home which completed their circumnavigation of the globe! Sarvowinner gives us incredible details of their activities, camp and lodge descriptions, and in general makes us feel we were right there with them!

CHRISO’S ‘BACK FROM TANZANIA’ JAN 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34747534
Chris has written a short, but really good report on his terrific Tanzania/Zanzibar trip along with his friend, booked a private drive safari through GOOD EARTH TOURS. Along with Rafael, their guide, they went to Tarangire (Tarangire Tented Lodge), Lake Manyara (Serena Lodge), Serengeti (Serena Lodge & Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp) and Ngorongoro Crater (Sopa Lodge), finishing off with a nice relaxing stay in Zanzibar (Shooting Star Lodge). It’s brief – but it’s informative!

I'M ALMOST CAUGHT UP GUYS.....

KSTYLE’S ‘BACK FROM TANZANIA’ JAN 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34749526
This is a ‘more is coming’ thread from Mark and Krystal’s Tanzanian safari booked through GOOD EARTH, with Goodluck as their guide. Traveling on a small group safari (2 other people only), Mark and Krystal stayed at lodges, while the other 2 stayed at camps. This thread gives us a few highlights, with promises of a trip report to come, as well as a link to their pictures on their website.

JANGOSS’S ‘KENYA TRIP’ IN 3 THREADS JAN 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34753334 (picture link and intro)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34753308 (Amboseli)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34754641 (Tsavo East)
This is Jan’s detailed trip report on her 9th trip to East Africa. Traveling solo, Jan goes back a couple of times each year to check in on her beloved elephants and her friends at Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks. Booked with SOUTHERN CROSS, Jan started out this time in Nairobi (Holiday Inn), flew to Amboseli (Ol Tukai – Jan’s absolute favorite!) and Mombasa and then drove to Tsavo East (Satao Camp). Jan relates to us some incredible stories of her adventures in these threads, reading her reports is more like reading a good novel than a trip report! She keeps us up to date on all kinds of wildlife-related issues in her report, as well as research data on the animals. A link to her wonderful pictures on Kodak Gallery is in the first thread.

COCCO1’S ‘KENYA & TANZANIA’ JAN-FEB 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34755788
This is a very detailed, well-written trip report that Kimberley has written for us on their first African safari. Just back, it is an up-to-the-minute report of conditions in Kenya and Tanzania. Booked as a private fly/drive with TANZANIA SERENGETI ADVENTURE (TSA), their itinerary was Nairobi (Norfolk Hotel), Samburu (Intrepid’s Camp), Amboseli (Tortilis Tented Camp), Arusha (Serena Mt. Village Lodge), Tarangire (Swala Camp), Ngorongoro (Crater Lodge), Serengeti (Ndutu Safari Lodge), and Dar es Salaam (Ras Kutani Beach Resort) for some well-deserved relaxation. Kimberley has given us lots of wonderful details on game drives, lodges and camps, along with some of their incredible experiences. There is a photo link halfway through the thread for their amazing pictures on Kodak Gallery.


OK GUYS, I'M CAUGHT UP NOW - now I will go back to the ones I posted early on, add everyone's camps and lodges and re-arrange them in date order from earliest to latest.....

Great job, Lynda!

Thanks Lynda
It's great to read how others saw Tanzania at the same time we were there. Fantastic précis of each report.
Julie

KAVEY’S ‘KENYA’S FESTIVAL OF WILDLIFE APRIL 2004
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34485597
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34489751
In the first thread, Kavey gives us her itinerary for her exciting trip to Kenya for the first annual Festival of Wildlife. In the second thread she has just returned and is pumped for all sorts of information on her exciting wildlife photography safari. Staying at Governors Camp in the Masai Mara, Kavey and her dad had the privilege of attending workshops, field experience and lectures with John and Angie Scott (of the Big Cat Diaries fame), wildlife photographers Nina and Ian Bailey, and David Shepherd from the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation. Kavey’s report will make you want to book the very next one of these wonderful safaris!


MAXWELL’S ‘UGANDA TRIP REPORT’ JANUARY 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34760146
Linda has written a wonderful detailed report on her incredible trip to Uganda. Booked through GREAT LAKES SAFARIS, Linda stayed the first night in Entebbe (Sophie’s Motel), before starting out for Ngamba Island to see, and play with the chimpanzees. For two days, she was lucky enough to spend quite a bit of time with the chimpanzees, complete with hugs, shoulder rides, and a life-defining moment of sitting on the rocks on the shores of Lake Victoria watching the chimpanzees play with her shoelaces! The rest of her trip included Kampala (Hotel Africana), Kisoro (Travellers Rest – of the Dian Fossey fame), where Linda hiked in over some incredibly steep terrain to see a group of gorillas in Bwindi. From here she drove to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Mweya Lodge) for game drives, and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel; followed by Kyambura River Gorge to try and find some more chimps; and Fort Portal (Rwenzori View Guest House) for more chimp tracking in Kibale, before heading back to Kampala and Entebbe for her flight back home. Linda has posted a link to her wonderful pictures on Imagestation later on in the thread.


BAT’S ‘TZ REPORT: IF THERE HAD BEEN A MILLION WILDEBEEST, THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A HUNDRED MILLION FLIES’ FEBRUARY 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34760129
This is Barbara’s absolutely incredible, very descriptive report on her private drive/fly trip booked through AFRICA TRAVEL RESOURCE (ATR) to Tanzania. Barbara, S/O Fred, and T/C Mark started their wonderful safari in Arusha (Ngare Sero Lodge), by doing a few unusual ‘things’. Bat gives us a very detailed report on the lodge, their wonderful canoeing adventure (booked through GREEN FOOTPRINTS) on Little Momella Lake in Arusha NP, taking school supplies to the local school, and attending an exciting piece of history – the Rwanda genocide trials. From here, with MKSC (Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club) as their ground operator, they set out on their adventure, in search of wild animals – first to Lake Manyara for a game run, then Ngorongoro Crater (Serena Lodge, Crater Lodge), Oldupai Gorge (Olduvai Camp) and the Serengeti (Ronjo Camp). And wild animals, balloon rides, as well as other incredible adventures, they did indeed find! Switching to NOMAD as their ground operator, Bat and her clan stayed next at Nomad’s Serengeti Camp and Loliondo Camp in the Serengeti as well. From here, saying their tearful goodbyes to T/C Mark and their guide, Barbara and Fred flew to Stonetown, Zanzibar (Emerson & Green). After playing tourist for a bit, they were more than ready for their final ‘beach holiday days at Matemwe Bungalows, on the north-eastern part of the island. Once you read this enticing report, you will be on the phone booking your next trip to Africa!

Lynda:
Thanks again. These descriptions are really good.

THANK YOU!! This is an incredible undertaking, and incredibly beneficial. You deserve our compliments, but more importantly, our thanks.

Thankyou, Michael and everyone else who has commented with such encouraging remarks - I do appreciate it. It's fun reading all of these reports, I have learned SO MUCH! And added SO MANY 'things to do' and 'places to go' on my list of 101 Things To Do Before We Die!

PHILW’S ‘KENYA FEB 2006 – COTTARS’ FEB 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34765618
Everyone may remember Phil from last year, when he took his wife, and two daughters back to Africa. Well, this time it was just him and his wife on a short, but wonderful trip to the Mara. Booked through local Nairobi operator GAMEWATCHERS, Phil and his wife spent 5 nights at Cottars 1920’s camp near the Mara, and a night at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi. Phil had some wonderful rare sightings – a pangolin in daylight, a zorilla, a black rhino, and a great impromptu game walk amongst a herd of 500 or so buffalo near the Sand River. And, as elusive as the cheetahs proved to be in the Mara, they got really up close and personal – to the point of petting one – in the cheetah sanctuary at the orphanage in Nairobi! His incredible pictures are posted in Kodak Gallery, link is in the thread.

MEICHX’S ‘TRIP REPORT: KAKAMEGA, ELDORET’
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34763305
This is a short report on Meichx’s trip to Eldoret, with a side trip to Kakamega Forest, staying at Rondo Retreat. It’s short, but it gives us lots of information on Rondo, in case anyone is thinking of heading there, this is a good frank and honest report to read.

DLO’S ‘RWANDA, UGANDA, KENYA, TANZANIA DEC 05- MAR 06’
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34765002
Here is a fabulously LONG report on a fabulously LONG amazing trip! Dlo has treated us to some great details of his trip, starting in December, and finishing in March. And, as if a 3 month trip that involved a gorilla trek, a donkey trek, climbing to the summit of Kilimanjaro, a crater highlands hike, an incredible game-filled safari, and tons of culture and relaxation in Lamu and Zanzibar wasn’t enough excitement for Dlo and Christine, they actually got married at Governor’s Camp in the Mara! The first part, booked through GREAT LAKES SAFARIS took them from Canada to Entebbe, Uganda. Using mostly budget accommodations throughout Uganda, they stayed their first night in Kampala, drove to Murchison Falls (Red Chili Campsight), Budongo Forest for chimp tracking (Rwenzori View Guesthouse), and Queen Elizabeth Park (Institute of Ecology Hostel & Ishasha River Bandas). Next was Rwanda to see the Umubano Group of gorillas in Volcanoes National Park (Kinigi Guest House), and to trek to see Dian Fossey’s grave – which, by the way included a ‘free’ sighting of the Amahoro Group when they came across them in the forest! After a short drive to Gisenyi (Palm Beach Hotel), dlo took an unexpected side trip to the hospital in Kigali, followed by a stay at Chez Lando, and a short visit to Butare. Heading back into Uganda, their route took them to Lake Bunyoni, Lake Mburro for a boat trip and Kampala (Fairway Hotel) for Christmas Eve and a visit to the Sanyu babies’ orphanage, before flying back to Nairobi (Fairview Hotel). After an 8 hour dusty drive, dlo and Christine arrived in Samburuland for their 5-day donkey trek with 23 donkeys and 8 Samburu warriors, booked through SAMBURU TRAILS. The next part, booked through KENYA WILDLIFE TRAILS took them to Nairobi (Boulevard Hotel) and the Maasai Mara (Governors Camp) for their incredible storybook wedding, back to Nairobi again, Tsavo NP (Serena Kilaguni Lodge), Watamu (Turtle Bay Beach Club), Lamu (Lamu Palace Hotel), and back to Nairobi (Boulevard Hotel). No, no, no, we’re NOT finished yet – we’re only half-way through! The next leg, booked through TROPICAL TRAILS, took them by shuttle bus to Arusha (Karama Lodge) and a day climb up the 18,500 ft level of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Up next was Tarangire (tent under a baobob tree), Lake Manyara (Twiga campsight), the Serengeti (tenting, and Ndutu Lodge), Ngorongoro CA (Simba camp & Sopa Lodge), Nainokanoka for a 6 day Olmati/Empakai Crater Highlands Trek, Lake Natron and finally, Arusha (Karama Lodge). On their own now, they flew to Zanzibar and slept all over the island – Stonetown (Tembo Hotel), Pongwe Beach, Shooting Star, Mbweni Ruins. For the last leg of this incredible trip, booked through FOXES SAFARIS, dlo & Christine finished off in the Southern Tanzania route; with 7 days at Mikumi NP (Foxes Camp) and Foxes Highland Lodge. Their wonderful pictures, and plenty of them, are on Imagestation – the link is mentioned about halfway through his report.

Thanks Lynda.

I'm constantly amazed by how great your summaries are.

Thanks Patty & bat!
That last one felt as though it took me as long to write, as dlo's trip was! What an itinerary - wow, other than the fact that I couldn't do all that trekking and hiking (I'm worried aboiut just plain walking!) I'd LOVE to have done that itinerary! A real dream come true. Sherry's trip is upnext - just finishing reading it tonight.
I love to read these reports, and I love to write - and I'm glad everyone is finding it useful - I know I will use it when we plan our NEXT trip to Africa!
Doing this is keeping me sane until we go in June...

Thats a great summary Linda.You're right of course it really was a dream come true.I'll post my thoughts in my summary but i've really crashed this week and finally am having a huge letdown.I had a lot of people tell me it was a once in a lifetime trip and i suppose they're right as i think this will be impossible to top but i sure will have fun trying!

As a fellow Canadian, dlo whereabouts in this wonderful country are you?
I'm in Vancouver - sunny & cold today. Sunny is nice, but I think the next time I will be warm is on May 28th when I land in that 'hot tropical air' in Nairobi.

Lynda i'm from lovely Winnipeg.Well at least most of our snow has melted.I think you can now understand why i need to get away in the winter so much.The funny thing is it was 1 of the warmest winters ever so you know next winter will be brutal.I still have never been to Vancouver but my wife loves it as does her brother who lives there.You're lucky you live in the beautiful part of the country.

Winnipeg! Wow, we moved from Windsor when I was 13 to -

are you ready for this? -

Lac Du Bonnet....

I moved to Wpg when I was 18, and then moved here 7 years later - found my husband there in Wpg - we are just about to celebrate our 30th anniversary buying spices in Zanzibar in June - so, you can see the quality of 'husbands' from Wpg in that one statement alone... Please be sure to tell Christine she has a keeper!

Your rings intrigued me by the way, in your report - I wouldn't mind looking at some while in Nairobi - can you give me a heads up on where you found yours? Our wedding rings are gold bands with a design etched in them - but I'd sure like to see animals etched in instead. That would make a nice anniversary present to each other don't you think?

Lynda,no worries i tell Chris everyday how lucky she is! As far as the ring we bought them from Mr Maru.I believe the building was called Lonrho House.We called him at (020)213061.I know its near a Nakumatt and the Stanley Hotel.He had a pretty good size selection and a wide range of prices so you should be able to find something.I think it only took about an hour to have my ring sized so we headed to a nearby bookshop and hung out there.Good luck and let me know if you find anything.

CYBOR’S ‘TANZANIA/SEYCHELLES TRIP REPORT’ FEBRUARY/MARCH 2006.04.04
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34766566
This is a well-written, detailed and informative trip report of Sherry & Mike’s wonderful adventure of their safari to Tanzania, and their unusual ‘beach’ post-adventure on a catamaran for 8 days. Booking through AFRICA ADVENTURE, their ground operator was TANZANIA PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARIS, and their ground operator in Nairobi was ORIGINS. Their adventure started out in Arusha (New Arusha Hotel), where they lucked out in a private safari vehicle after booking onto a group safari. Their first night was spent at Tarangire (Kikoti Safari Camp), followed by a night in the NCA (Kifaru Lodge), before driving to Lake Eyasi (Kisima Ngeda Camp) where they went hunting with the Hadzabe bushmen, and visiting the Datoga, Barabaig and Watindiga tribes. Driving on, they stayed two nights at Ngorongoro Crater (Sopa Lodge) before arriving in the Serengeti (mobile camping in the Nyaibollo (sp.) area). Flying back to Nairobi (Karen Blixen Cottages), Sherry and Mike spent a great night in Nairobi before being told that their confirmed seats on their flight to the Seychelles had been given away, and they were to come back TWO days later! Not sitting well with a person who had not had a decent shower in the better part of a week – Sherry wore them down and they eventually re-routed them to the Seychelles via Dubai. This would enable them to make their catamaran trip at least, but the prepaid room in Mahé was history, to say nothing of the luxurious soak Sherry was looking forward too. But, adventurous as they are, they went, and they did get a partial night in at the hotel (La Meridien Barbarons) before embarking on their incredible 8 day catamaran tour of the Seychelles Islands. The islands & Marine Parks they explored included Ste. Anne Marine Park, La Digue Island, Coco Island, Praslin Island, Grand Soeur Island, Curieuse Island, and Cousin Island. After docking in Victoria Harbour back on Mahé, Sherry finally got her nice long bath at Le Meridien Barbarons where they stayed their final two nights, before flying back to Nairobi for a wonderful last day in Africa.

BOSTONGAL’S ‘KILIMANJARO, SAFARI & ZANZIBAR REPORT’ MARCH 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34774854 (REPORT)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34775275 (PICTURES)
Here is an incredible, very detailed report on Nicole and Jay’s amazing trip to Kenya and Tanzania, including their Mt. Kilimanjaro climb. Booked through AFRICA TRAVEL RESOURCE (ATR), Nicole and Jay set out from Boston, stopped in Amsterdam and, almost without Jay’s passport, finally landed in Kilimanjaro and stepped out into the ‘hot, exotic African air’. (love that phrase, Nicole!). After spending a night in Arusha (Moivaro Coffee Lodge), the next stop was at Ilburo Lodge, for a last night on a bed before the climb, and a briefing from AFRICAN WALKING COMPANY. The next morning, after driving by jeep to the base of Kilimanjaro, they started their 6 day up – 2 day down Kili climb on the Shira route - going through five climate zones, lack of sleep, and plenty of emotions, to get to Uhuru Peak at 19,340 feet. Tired, dirty and cold, but exhilarated beyond belief, after the descent they spent another night at Ilboru Lodge. The next part was easy – the safari, Nicole’s trade off with Jay for climbing Kili. Their itinerary took them from Arusha, a game drive in Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater (Crater Lodge), Oldupai Gorge (Olduvai Camp), the Serengeti (Ronjo Flycamp in the Seronera), and finally, flying to Zanzibar with a pretty scarry landing, staying at Emerson & Green in Stonetown for culture, and Matemwe Beach Village for a much needed rest. This is a well-done report where you will feel you were with Nicole and Jay every step of the way – especially as she describes the climb – the tears, the joy, the humour, and the cold. It should be required reading for everyone who is considering going on a Mt. Kilimanjaro climb. Their fabulous pictures are in a separate thread – see the above link.

ROCCO’S ‘THE ACCIDENTAL SAFARI – TANZANIA ADVENTURE’ MARCH 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34775997 (DETAILED REPORT)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34767105 (REPORT FROM THE FIELD)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34773267 (PICTURES)
As one Fodorite said in this report about Rocco’s writing – “Move Over Bill Bryson”! Rocco, in his usual style, has given us an amazing report; sometimes it will tug on your heartstrings and bring tears to your eyes, other times you will be rolling with laughter, but at all times, it will pull you into the adventure, and keep you reading until the end. And, as we always appreciate – and would expect from Rocco, it is an honest and frank assessment of things that did work, as well as things that didn’t. Starting with a very entertaining story of how he ended up trading his Porsche for this trip to Tanzania, we follow the many escapades and adventures of the accidental travelers from Los Angeles to Amsterdam, to Kilimanjaro, to Dar Es Salaam, and back to Kilimanjaro, - and that was just getting there to Tanzania! Booked through AFRICA TRAVEL RESOURCES, Rocco’s ground operators were MKSC (MT KILIMANJARO SAFARI CLUB) and NOMAD. Their itinerary (not that we didn’t all know this by heart by now!) included Arusha (Moivaro Coffee Lodge), Tarangire (Tree Tops Lodge), Lake Manyara (Lake Manyara Tree Lodge), Ngorongoro (Crater Lodge), Oldupai Gorge (Olduvai Camp), Serengeti (Ndutu Nomad Camp and Mbuzi Mawe Camp), and finally, a jaunt over to Zanzibar to take in both ‘beach’ time on the island’s east coast (The Palms), and ‘shopping’ time in Stonetown (Serena Inn). Their incredible pictures that capture the very essence of the best of Tanzania’s wildlife are in Kodak Gallery, see the thread above.

CHIQUITA’S ‘SAFARI REPORT – PART 1/2/3’ FEB 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34778745 (PART 1)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34778831 (PART 2)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34778922 (PART 3)
This is a very humorous report from Chiquita and her DH’s first trip to Africa. Telling us she’s not the best writer (and disproving that right away as it is a very entertaining read!) Chiquita relates their trip from the US, through Zurich and on to Nairobi where they meet their safari representative, and are taken to the Serena Hotel for the night. The next morning their exciting adventure starts as they fly to Kilimanjaro Airport, and pick up their guide/driver Abraham for the next 14 days. Booked as a private drive safari, their ground operator was KIBO in Tanzania. Their itinerary included Sinya Wildlife Conservancy (Kambi ya Tembo Camp) where Dh managed single handedly to bring on some rain in the current drought by doing a rain dance with the Maasai, Arusha National Park (Kigongoni Lodge – aka Spider Lodge by Chiquita!), Tarangire (Tarangire River Camp), Lake Manyara (Gibbs Farm), the Serengeti (Kibo mobile tented camp in Central Serengeti), and to finish - Ngorongoro (Serena Lodge & Ngorongoro Farm House). This a fun read with lots of great info in it!

Ive got a trip report on Tanzania here:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34784464

Thanks for posting that Nikao, I had printed yours out, along with a couple of others, and I will add them - hopefully tonight! Sorry I didn't get too it sooner, tax time still here in Canada.....!

TUSKERDAVE’S ‘THANKS - GREAT LAKES & ECO RESORTS’ MARCH 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34780289
Tuskerdave has written a short, but very informative report on his current trip to Uganda and Kenya. Or, well, he said it wasn’t a report – but it’s sure packed with anecdotes and useful info! Booked through GREAT LAKES, Tuskerdave’s itinerary included Kibale, Entebbe (Sophie’s Motel), and 4 chimp trackings with a stay at an elevated banda in Uganda. His Kenya itinerary included Nairobi (a friends place & Didi’s Guest House), a drive and a viewing of the bone house with KWS, and Tsavo (Ndololo Camp). Be sure to read this report to find out how Tuskerdave acquired his own personal cow from a Maasai!

LyndaS,

Wow, thanks for the stirring recap of my trip report! If my trip report were on sale at local bookstores, after reading your recap, I would buy it.

I have added 2-3 dozen photos since many people first looked at my photo album, including a couple of my favorites...a beautiful family photo of the Ndutu lion pride of 18 (there are two lionesses and three cubs featured in the photo) and then also a photo of two beautiful juvenile (2-3 years old) lions both yawning concurrently, one lying on his stomach and the other on his side/back.

Rocco thanks for posting the update on your fabulous photos - you really do an eye for wildlife photos!
You know your comment about buying the book set me to thinking that all of our reports should go in one book - I think it would be a best seller!
Now there's a project....

DPDNY’S TRIP REPORT – TANZIA MAR 17-25 MARCH 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34781952
Here is a great little report from Daniel & Fiona’s trip to Tanzania in March to go along with their fabulous pictures. Having lived in Nairobi on three separate occasions, Daniel gives us a good perspective into how things have changed over the years, as well as how different things look through the eyes of a tourist as opposed to a resident. Booked as a private drive safari with ACCESS 2 TANZANIA, a relatively new outfit in the US, Daniel and Fiona first visited a local charitable organization ‘Project Zawadi’ that the outfitter helps support. Their safari, starting in Arusha (Impala Hotel) took in Tarangire (Tarangire River Camp), a game drive in Lake Manyara, Karatu in NCA (Crater Rim Lodge), Serengeti (Serena Lodge), Ngorongoro (Serena Lodge and Crater Lodge), a hike on foot through Olmoti Crater, hunting with the Hadzabe at Lake Eyasi, (Kisima Ngeda), and back to Arusha (day room at Kia Lodge). Their wonderful pictures are in Kodak Gallery, the link is mentioned at the start of the thread.

KAREN47’S ‘BACK FROM TANZANIA’ MARCH 2006
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34782932
This is a short, but very informative report on Karen & her husband’s trip to Tanzania booked through CC AFRICA. Karen has given us her honest impressions on the outfitter, the lodges and camps, the highlights of her trip, and, of course the number one reason we all go – the wildlife. Their exciting itinerary of their fly-in safari took them to Mahale (Mahale Camp- chimp tracking), Tarangire, Lake Manyara (Lake Manyara Tree Lodge), Ngorongoro Crater (Crater Lodge), the Serengeti (Serengeti Serena), Zanzibar (The Palms), and Dar Es Salaam (Royal Palms).

NIKAO’S ‘TRIP REPORT – TANZANIA’ NOV/DEC 2005
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34784464
Nikao has written a short report on his trip in Nov/Dec to Tanzania. Booked through GREEN FOOTPRINT ADVENTURES, Nikao set out with his girlfriend, her mother and brother on an incredible adventure. After spending 10 days in Arusha where they did several nature walks at Kigongoni Lodge, canoed on Duluti, and explored Arusha National Park in depth, they then went to Tarangire (Tarangire Safari Lodge), Lake Manyara (Serena Lodge), Karatu (Plantation Lodge), Ngorongoro Crater, and finally to the Serengeti (Ndutu area – Camp Olakira and Sayari camp in the Gol Mountains). Nikao and his family did some pretty exciting and different activities while on safari – mountain biking down a mountain at Lake Manyara, as well as a wonderful dinner in the bush and a night game drive. His truly amazing pictures are on Flickr – the link is mentioned at the top of the thread. Don’t miss the one of the mother cheetah with her cub – National Geographic could snap that one up any day now!

Well guys, I just finished reading two of the older reports I had on my desk to read! Thought I should post them in the index and get back to my job here!

EVELYNTRAV’S : “OAT TANZANIA TRIP WITH EXTENSIONS” FEB 2005

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34648151

This report from Evelyn recaps her OAT (OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL) group safari with her friend in early 2005. Originally asking about the pre-trip extension and the post-trip extension, Evelyn came back after her trip to post her impressions. Using KIBO as the ground operator, they did the pre-trip of ‘Meet the Maasa – Life in the Foothills of Kilimanjaro’ before their safari from Arusha. Their itinerary included Sinya Camp (private reserve), Tarangire (Tented River Camp), Ngorongoro (Ngo Farm House), the Serengeti (OAT tented camp), and a stop at Olduvai on the way back to Arusha. Evelyn has given honest and forthright opinions on game drives, lodgings, meals, animals, the cultural visits and the itinerary.

FAMILY5’S ‘TANZANIA TRIP REPORT FROM 12/05’ DEC 2005

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34788468

This is a fabulous report from Brett, an 18 yr old who went on safari with his mom and dad and his two brothers. Going with NAIPENDA SAFARIS, they started off in Arusha (Kia Lodge), drove to lake Manyara for a game run, continued onto Lake Eyasi (Kisima Ngeda Tented Camp), Ngorongoro Crater (Sopa Lodge), the Serengeti ( Sopa Lodge and a camp in the southern part), followed by a beach break in Zanzibar (hotel not mentioned). Brett relates some wonderful detailed stories to us, with lots of information that you never thought you would need – such as the size of the spiders in Arusha, what it feels like to throw up in a plane five times, what a real hunt is like for the Hadzabe tribe, and incredible details on stuff lions do – sleep, eat, poop, and hunt. Brett has done an incredible job on his journal – as you read you will feel as though you are right there with him, or at the least, watching the animal planet. And for those of us who have been on safari in the same area, you will wonder why you didn’t see half of all that exciting stuff! Their incredible photos (including one of a HUGE spider) are posted on Shutterfly, see the link at the beginning of the thread.

BILL-H’S “PHOTOS & TRIP REPORT – TANZANIA JANUARY 2006”

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34827475

In January of 2006 Bill and his wife Carolyn, took a 16-day group photographic safari to Tanzania with PHOTOGRAPHER TODD GUSTAFSON. There were 5 jeeps with two professional photographers, their mission was to get the best wildlife shots ever. And, once you look at Bill and Carolyn’s shots – you will see, they succeeded! His incredible photographs can be found on his web site, which he has listed within his report. This safarr, their first – but not their last – took them from Tarangire (Sopa Lodge) to Lake Manyara (Serena Hotel), the Serengeti (Ndutu Safari Lodge and the Seronera) to Ngorongoro (Sopa Lodge). His report is full of great tips for good photos, but the highlight are his pictures – they are not only incredible, but I am sure they would be the envy of National Geographic! Bill and Carolyn enjoyed their time in Africa so much, they went back on their own in April of 2006. (more on that later of course!)

I just had to do one with bolding and it worked! When I post the NEW and IMPROVED index later, I will go back and bold everyone's ground op and booking compan for easier searching!

Merci Lynda,
Your hard work is greatly appreciated by all.
Can you tell us how/if we can post the link to the corresponding trip photos in the index.
Sherry

You know, Sherry, that's a good idea - if the address can be pasted, then I should be able to post the link right under the link to the thread! I never thought of that - when I do the next one I will try that!
Hope you are feeling better this week - did you get my email by the way about the bracelet?

Lynda,
There shouldn't be a need for you to add this job onto your already huge list of things to do. Perhaps if you tell us how to do this, we can each take care of our own thread. My thought is rather than having the photo thread in the body of the report it could be seperate. It would be more convenient for those who don't want to wade thru the report to find the pics. link.
Thanks, I'm starting to feel better. I'll e- you.
Sherry

It would be so much easier if Fodors had an edit post function. Thanks for all of your hard work, Lynda!

Sherry-
No problem at all for me to add the links - I have everything in Word. I can click on the link, copy and paste into each person's section of the index.

I have gone through and put everyone's lodges/camps in on the ones that didn't have it, and I have also put them in a logical date order.

Then, once I put the photo link in, I will repost the whole index under a NEW AND IMPROVED East Africa index thread!

But, first I am going to finish that trip report of mine!!!

Lynda:

You have done a fabulous job and all current and future readers of this forum (that's alot of people!) are and will be grateful. But it is really unfair for this to become your permanent responsibility.

Perhaps we need to start talking about how it can become self-perpetuating. i.e. whenever anyone writes a report they (or a reader) posts the link to the index. You could decide when you want that to happen (in case at this point it is not something that you want to relinquish).

Just an idea.

That's a kind offer/suggestion bat, but, no, I'm good! I take the trip reports with me now on my LONG bus ride to work - so long that I read Wayne's in 2 bus trips only!)

I like to write the reviews, maybe it's a long supressed carreer in me or something! But, when it does get to be too much, yes, having everyone post their own is a good idea. But I'm good for now - thank you so much for the concern!

Another installment on my own trip report coming tonight by the way...

CYNSTALKER”S “GREAT (S. AFRICA, TANZANIA, KENYAN) ADVENTURE FEB MAR 2006

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34831311 (report)
http://kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=nwapff6.acsur6xu&x=0&y=aozn7n (photos)

Here is Cyn’s long-awaited trip report – and was it ever worth the wait! And, once you read it, you will see why it took Cyn a long time to write this bittersweet memory of her and Peter’s trip. It is an incredibly moving report, written so well that you will go on an emotional roller-coaster with them. Starting out in South Africa in Capetown (Radisson Waterfront Hotel, Table Bay Hotel), booked on their own, they explored some of the great stuff that South Africa offers, as well as Fraenschhoek (Akademie Guest House). Then, off to Nairobi to start their private (fly) safari with ROYAL AFRICAN SAFARIS, where they were to meet their friend, and owner/guide David, who had visited, and stayed with them in their home in Vermont, along with his friend Christof, the owner of the Ngong House in Nairobi. It was another owner/guide, Jan, meeting them though; and sadly, he had to break the news that both Christof and David had recently died in a plane crash. Devastated, Cyn and Peter just wanted to go back home and call it all off.
But, thankfully they did go on – and had some wonderful adventures which, as you read along, will change your tears of sadness into laughter! Their itinerary took them, in Tanzania, from the Southern Serengeti (private camp), Ngorongoro CA (Crater Lodge), Mahale Mountains(Greystoke), to Kenya – Solio Ranch (private camp), Loisaba Wilderness (Loisaba Lodge), Lake Nakuru National Park (Soy Sambu campsite), Rusinga Island, Lake Victoria (Rusinga Island Lodge), Masai Mara NP (Root crossing on Sand River, private camp), and finally Nairobi (Ngong House).
Their wonderful pictures are on Kodak Gallery, follow the link above.

What do you guys think about the red? I was trying to make the lodges stand out for easy searching by eye, but, I don't know - looks kind of cluttered??

Lynda -

It's not so much cluttered, but the red isn't all that easy on the eye. Why not just "bold" the name of the camps/lodges - lower case should be fine. My 2-cents.

Lynda:

Yahoo! I made it to the trip report index! (Yes, I been checking ) You are really amazing to do this - and thank you for your kind description of my report.

Re: the red: it does make it look busy - maybe something like this?

LODGING:
Tanzania:
Southern Serengeti: private camp

Ngorongoro Crater: Crater Lodge www.ngorongorocrater.com

Mahale Mountains: Greystoke
greystoke-mahale.com

Kenya:
Solio Ranch: private camp

Loisaba Wilderness: Loisaba Lodge www.loisaba.com

Lake Nakuru National Park: Soy Sambu campsite

Rusinga Island, Lake Victoria: Rusinga Island Lodge www.rusinga.com

Masai Mara NP: Roots crossing on Sand River, private camp

Nairobi: Ngong House www.ngonghouse.com

Too formal? Too much work?

Cyn

No, not too much work Cyn, it does look good your way, and Sandi's suggestion is a good one too to just bold in lower case.

Both ways actually would be a lot less work than changing those colours as I had to REALLY concentrate on where I put the black & the red.

I shall take both suggestions over my morning breakfast!

Cyn's suggestion is easier to find the data for people looking.
Sandi's suggestion goes along with my format (of a 'review') much better tho' and still makes it easy to see the lodges.

Hmmm, this may be a long breakfast to decide!

I forgot to mention Cyn, that I understand completely why it took you so long to write - many times over the last week I sat down to write the review for here, and I ended up with tears in my eyes again, and couldn't write. It was a very moving report and everytime I went to write about David and Christof those tears would well up (like right now) and I just couldn't find the right words. I'm not sure I still did find the right words, but last night I told myself I wasn't going to bed until I had done this!

I didn't know them at all, but I felt your shock, and your pain the way you wrote the story. And, possibly because my son is a pilot (small 8-seater equivalent planes at the moment, frieght, just starting his career) I do get a twinge every time I read about a small plane crash, or any crash for that matter. After I posted here last night I searched the internet for info on the crash. I read that David was the pilot, it was his plane, and that twinge got a lot closer to my heart.

Thanks so much Cyn for sharing your trip with us, we all know how hard it must have been to write and we appreciate it. And we are all glad you didn't go back home when you heard.

Lynda:
I don't think I have ever been so unprepared for something. You found the perfect words for the recap - no worries there.

You are a very kind and special woman. Thanks for being out there.

Cyn

NET_WARRIOR’S “TRIP REPORT TANZANIA FEB” Feb 2006

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34805266 (report)

This is a report from net_warrior’s 2nd trip to Africa along with his mom. Loving the first one so much from Oct 2004, they decided to go again in early of 2006. Now, first off, he says he isn’t a good writer – but I, as well as everyone else, have to disagree. He has a marvelously humorous way to get his point across to us, and, if one could really win an award for Truth In Travel, net_warrior should win it. He booked out of England with AFRICAN SAFARIS, they used the ground operator RANGER SAFARIS for a private drive safari. He gives us frank opinions, no holds barred; on the lodges, the service, the ground operator, the outfitter and, last but not least, the guide and the vehicle. Fortunately the first thing he packed on his trip was his sense of humor – he has some amazing stories!

Lodges and camps used in Tanzania were:

Arusha – Moivaro Lodge
Tarangire NP – Kikoti Camp
Ngorongoro CA – Ngorongoro Farm House
Serengeti – Sopa Lodge
Serengeti - Lobo Wildlife Lodge
Serengeti - Mbalageti Tented Lodge
Lake Manyara – Serena Lodge
Arusha – Kigongoni Lodge (reports no spiders by the way….)

RICHARDFH’S “TRIP REVIEW – MAY 9TH – 24TH”
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34815285 (Kenya)
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34815342 (Rwanda)
http://richardfh.zippyvideos.com/gallery.z (gorilla video)

This is Richard’s report of his ‘off the beaten track’ safari of his first trip to Africa with a group of 7 that he put together. Booked through GAMEWATCHERS, it is a wonderful, fact-filled report, with links to websites and lots of great information. He has given us some very good descriptions of what to expect at some of the less common lodges and camps that they stayed in, along with his recommendations. Describing the gorilla trek to the Sabyinyo group, Richard sums it all up by saying ‘by far, one of the best hours of my life’. His exciting itinerary was:

Nairobi – Ngong House
Samburu – Larsen’s Tented Camp
Nairobi – Norfolk Hotel
Lake Naivasha – Chui Lodge
Maasai Mara – Porini Camp
Selenkay (near Amboseli Park) – Porini Camp
Nairobi – Norfolk Hotel
Kigali, Rwanda – drive to Mountain Gorillas Nest Hotel
Goma, Congo – short visit at Congo border
Kigali – lunch at Milles des Collins Hotel before returning home

Follow the link above to his videos on the gorilla encounter. They are just so cute!

ACABOT’S “LAMU AND MALINDI TRAVEL REPORT” MAY 2006

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34813632 (report)
www.kenyacabot.shutterfly.com (photos – use sunshine for password)

This is a short, but descriptive report of Ann’s trip to Lamu, Malindi and the Seychelles. Ann has given us a little background on the island of Lamu and a bit about Malindi. Her pictures are the star of the show though – the varieties of underwater fish that she saw were incredible – and the quality of her underwater shots will be envied by all who have snorkeled!

Places mentioned:

Lamu – Lamu Palace
Malindi – Coral Key Beach Resort


COUNTINGDOWN’S “FINALLY! MY TRIP REPORT BEGINS…TANZANIA, MARCH 2006”

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34821686 (report)

Here is a beautifully written, emotional, fresh and sparkling report that will stay with you long after you read it. An African addict since she was a child, Teri finally took the plunge and booked a trip to Africa with her sister through THOMPSON SAFARIS. Teri is an enthusiast, descriptive writer, who gives us refreshing and honest stories of her trip, along with some reflections on the ‘life changing’ values that she went through from her trip.

Her Classic Camping Safari itinerary was:

Arusha - Mountain Village Lodge
Tarangire – Classic Camp
Ngorongoro CA – Gibb’s Farm
Ngorongoro CA - Classic Camp
Serengeti – Serengeti Lodge
Serengeti - Wildlife Camp
Arusha – Mt. Meru Hotel (day room)


KMACTRAVEL’S “KENYA” JUNE 2006

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?screen_name=kmactravel&fid=4 (report)

This is Kay’s report of her trip to Kenya with LUXURY TOURS out of Florida, with the ground operator being TRAVEL WILD. Kay has described some of lodgings along with good descriptions of the parks and areas she stayed in. There is also a link to some of her fabulous wildlife shots, on her website, once on her website, click ‘buy items’, from there you can enlarge the picture on the right hand side by clicking on the top right corner. Be sure to click on the controversial picture of the lions resting on the TOP of the acacia tree, in the branches – quite a discussion developed on this topic within the thread!

Her itinerary included:

Nairobi – Karen Blixen Cottages
Nairobi – House of Waine
Lake Nakuru – Mbweha
Sweetwaters Game Reserve – Great Tented Camp
Lake Naivasha – Kiangazi House
Maasai Mara – Serian Tented Camp

Lynda: I'm having trouble making this link work:
KMACTRAVEL’S “KENYA” JUNE 2006

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?screen_name=kmactravel&fid=4 (report)


Help!

Cyn

Sorry, Cyn - looks like I didn't go one step further when I copied that address - usually I do a search on their name to see if I can see anything else about the itinerary when I am missing details - and that was the link I ended up posting!
Try this one-

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34823744

Thanks Lynda - works great now!

Cyn

BILL_H’S “PHOTOS AND TRIP REPORT…TANZANIA APRIL 2006”

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34827612 (report)

http://members.aol.com/bhilton665/tanzania_rainy_2006/ (pictures & commentary)

After having such a great time on safari in January of this year, Bill and Carolyn could just not wait to get back to Tanzania! This time they booked a private safari with one of their favorite drivers from their January group trip. Dubbed ‘Master Photographers’ by many on this board – they did not disappoint us with their absolutely incredible photographs. The itinerary was:

Lake Manyara – Serena Lodge (for optimum bird sightings)
Serengeti – Serena Lodge (for big game – a walloping 7 nights there!)
Lake Manyara – Serena Lodge (to break up the drive back to Arusha)

Thinking that the drought from January would continue, Bill and Carolyn expected dry weather, but landed up in the middle of the rains. Deciding to make the best of it though, they had some pretty incredible sightings which he describes in his report, along with of course – the proof – his not to be missed pictures!


MARTYNC’S “TANZANIA, KENYA & RWANDA TRIP REPORT – MIGRATION, ADVENTURE & GORILLAS” JUNE 2006

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34827329 (report)

http://web.mac.com/mstickle/iWeb/Marty%27s%20Site/Photos.html (photos)


In June, Marty, his wife and 2 of their friends embarked on a private drive safari with TANZANIA PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARIS for Tanzania, ORIGINS for Kenya and PRIMATE SAFARIS for Rwanda. Marty has given us some really fabulous descriptions of the animal sightings, some general information pointers, and some great information on the lodges and the food there. The highlight is reading about his incredible gorilla trek to see the Amahoro Group, as well as a Golden Monkey hike. As more and more come back and write about the encounter so vividly, more and more of us decide to book!

Their itinerary was:


Arusaha - Dik Dik Hotel
Serengeti - Mobile Camping Nyabeho/Seronera
Tarangire - Kikoti Camp
Amboseli - Tortilis Camp
Lewa Downs - Lewa Camp
Masai Mara - Kichwa Tembo
Kinigi, Rwanda – Mountain Gorilla’s Nest Lodge
Kigali - Novotel-Kigali


CAROLY’S “CAROL’S TRIP REPORT

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34829270 (grandmother’s trip report)

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=4&tid=34829017 (11 yr. old granddaughter’s trip report)

This is a short, but good descriptive report of Carol & Al’s trip to Africa with their 11 yr old granddaughter Rebecca. In Rebecca’s report, Carol gives us a few hints on traveling on safari with kids, along with Rebecca’s highlights and things that she didn’t enjoy as much. Their itinerary included:

Serena Mountain Lodge
Sweetwaters
Samburu
Amboseli
Tarangire
Serengeti
Ngorongoro Crater

Help--I have lost my threads on what to pack--there were several good lists--unfortunately they have disappeared from my favorites. We are going to Kenya for two weeks Jan 15 and I am starting to become nervous--I thought I had the list of what to take covered and now I cant find them. Any help will be most appreciated. Thanks Jan

Jan
put "Packing list" in the search box above & start packing
aby