Quite Possibly Africa’s Greatest Impact on Travelers

On August 25, 2010, In Culture, Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

zebrasWhat inspires travelers to choose a trip to Africa above any other exotic destination in the entire world? Although it is different for everyone, many individuals would say that one of their lifelong dreams has been to experience an African safari. These adventurers-at-heart might say that from the time they were 10 years-old they’ve imagined blazing through the bush and sprawling plains of Africa with the wind in their hair and the wildlife by their side. But what many travelers don’t realize, prior to their first visit to Africa, is that there is something much greater at work within this glorious continent.

There is something mysterious about Africa that ignites something within. Many would consider the catalyst behind this powerful feeling of bliss to be the pure energy emitted by all living things in Africa.African sunset

Everything from the smell of the first rains to the melting sunsets, the bright colors of the sky to the empowering sounds, and the magnetic wildlife to the intricate eco-systems, all have an indescribable energy that lives and thrives. Africa is a place where you leave with a new outlook on life and on yourself. But, what many travelers to Africa consider to be the beating heart within this palpable energy are the people of this fascinating continent.

The People

The people you come in contact with while in Africa will most likely be the most genuine and hospitable individuals you will ever meet. Their smiles, gentleness, sense of welcoming, laughter, kindness, and joy in providing you with happiness on your trip are so powerful that you cannot help but feel transformed by their energy.

Many first time travelers to Africa are blown away by the gentleness and attentiveness expressed by the natives, including staff members and safari guides. In fact, most individuals say that their needs and desires have never been addressed as promptly, thoroughly, and joyously, as they were in Africa.

African cultureThe Relationships that Form

Every individual you meet in Africa, whether a local, safari guide, staff member, or other traveler, offers another opportunity to build a lasting relationship that lives with you throughout the rest of your life.

As you converse with your private safari guides, who are often with you for days on end, you build a unique relationship with those individuals.

Coming into contact with other travelers is also a highly enriching experience as each individual or group is often from a different part of the world than you. This enhances your cultural experience as you are not only interacting with and learning about African cultures, but you are also speaking with people from Europe, China, Australia, the United States, Canada, and more. Africa’s ability to attract a variety of different people and cultures is what makes it one of the most enriching melting pots of the world.

The MemoriesAfrican safari guide

Interacting with the people you meet in Africa will quite possibly be some of the most inspirational memories that remain with you for the rest of your life. Every experience you have in the bush with your guide, family members, and new-found friends is something each and every one of you can connect with 20 years down the road and share with new generations, family members, and friends.

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The Truth behind Taking Your Family on an African Safari Vacation

On August 4, 2010, In Family Safaris, Safari Safety, By Sandy Salle

Hills of Africa As a travel company specializing in family and honeymoon trips to Africa, one of the greatest concerns clients have when it comes to international family travel is safety. We often hear from families who would love to travel to Africa but who also have some safety concerns: “Is a safari safe for our family?” “Are health conditions in Africa safe for my family?” “Is traveling to and through Africa safe for my family?”

The answer to all of those questions is yes, Africa is a safe and wonderful place to bring your family. But, as with all destinations outside of your own country, there are obvious safety precautions that should be addressed and looked into prior to departure.

Some of these universal travel concerns include health precautions, language barriers, differing cultures, and unfamiliar governments. With these concerns lingering, it’s important to be educated, and have the right tools to prevent any unexpected emergencies when traveling outside your native country. The enriching and rewarding family experiences far outweigh any of these concerning factors, as all safety precautions are addressed prior to departure.

But two of the most popular safety concerns we receive from clients are in regards to family safari tours and children on safari. Both of these safety concerns are addressed below:

Family Safari Tours:

When embarking on a family safari—or any type of safari for that matter—with a qualified and professional safari provider, you can rest assure knowing you and your loved ones are in excellent hands and completely safe.

Always taking rigorous safety precautions, each guide is armed, and equipped with handheld communication devices and extensive training in proper safety procedures and animal behavior. In fact, professional guides require a minimum of four years of training in the field before they can accompany safari goers on an outing.

Whether taking part in a canoe safari, walking safari, or game drive, professional guides know exactly where to go, what to do in case of any emergency, how far of a distance to keep from animals, and how to protect safari goers if an unexpected situation should arise. Each and every action a professional guide takes is always in the best interest of his or her safari participants.

When choosing a safari provider for your family, it’s important to ensure that the provider only employs guides who have the experience and training to handle any rare and unpredictable situations that could develop. A guide with experience can read a situation and avoid it before it even happens. A good guide develops a feel and instinct for the world around him or her, as they spend thousands of hours in the field.

Children on Safari:

Although some accommodations do require children to be a minimum of 12 years old, others do not have this requirement, and offer activities for nearly every age. Whether you have younger children or late teens, the entire family can enjoy exciting experiences that range from adventurous safaris to Cape Town city tours, horse riding tours on the beach to cultural expeditions with the native Bushmen, and a trip to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary to elephant back rides. Not to mention, visiting Africa as a family is one of the most rewarding and unforgettable ways to share the experiences of new cultures, fascinating history, and exciting adventures, as an entire family.

And for those families with younger children, children-friendly camps offer a variety of activities for the young ones who aren’t yet of age to participate on a game drive or safari tour. While the children are enjoying bush treasure hunts, bead-making classes, and bedtime stories from traditional African storytellers, parents can relax or partake in an adventurous safari tour.

One of our favorite children’s programs is at Olarro Lodge in Kenya, which offers children ages 6 and up the opportunity to take part in The Olarro Juniors Adventurers Club (OJAC). The club is ran by certified and highly qualified Maasai guides who introduce the kids to animal tracking techniques, survival techniques used in traditional Maasai culture, plant species used for medicinal purposes, and environmentally conscious practices. It’s truly a rewarding experience for all children who take part, and, parents can rest assured knowing that their little ones are in good hands, having fun, and discovering new and exciting things about the environment.

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What Really Happens on an African Family Safari?

On July 12, 2010, In Family Safaris, By Sandy Salle

If you’ve been thinking about planning an African family safari, but are still on the fence, maybe hearing from a family who recently visited Africa might provide with you a better idea for if a trip to Africa is right for your family.

Below, our recent clients from New Orleans, the Todd family, share their amazing experiences in Africa:

The Todd Family: Trey, Beth, Amie, and Alex

“Any chance to re-live some of the life altering experiences that my family and I had on our Hills of Africa safari is most welcomed. Nothing can beat watching the African sunrise over the Okavango Delta with loved ones or feeling the exhilaration of a charging elephant testing the abilities of our dedicated guide as we back up quickly down the road! Nothing compares to the playful antics of leopard cubs wrestling in the tall savanna grass! When will we ever get another chance to view the majesty of a pride of lions against a backdrop of acacia and baobab trees or a family of cheetahs lounging on a termite mound before an evening of hunting impala.

African family safari

Image taken by the Todd Family

The magic of Africa now runs through me as surely as if I were a child of the Kalahari leaving my footprints next to the spoor of the hyaena. This same magic that rekindled the passions of my daughters and wife for nature and the great outdoors. Everyone needs to share the experiences of a trip like this with their loved ones. It was unforgettable, spiritually uplifting, and truly just fodder for the soul. Throw in a couple of World Cup soccer games and I believe one has found the formula for the perfect holiday!

Many thanks to the Hills of Africa people who made this trip a reality for my family. Thanks to the staff of the Chitabe, Tubi Tree and Duma Tau camps for the meals, the dancing and entertainment, and the camaraderie. Thanks to the extremely knowledgeable guides for teaching us the species and the environmental impact of everything we do.  Lastly, thank you Sandy for helping us get through a very trying time when we thought all the preparation would be for naught after we missed our flight. I can’t wait to schedule our next trip to Cape Town or Kruger or to recommend your company to friends.”

–The Todd Family

Image taken by the Todd Family

African family safari

Image taken by the Todd Family

African family safari

Image taken by the Todd Family

African family safari

Image taken by the Todd Family

African family safari

Image taken by the Todd Family

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An Epic Battle of the Wild Kingdom

On July 2, 2010, In African Safari Tours, African Wildlife, Botswana, Family Safaris, By Sandy Salle

Post by Mark Homann, Professional Guide

Earlier this month I was guiding a family on a safari at Selinda Reserve in Botswana. We had just moved on from witnessing a pride of lions kill a sub-adult giraffe, and had just set up for our sundowners when a young kudu ran out from under the setting sun. Hot on its heels, the kudu was running from a lone wild dog. In a classic show of wild dog hunting technique, the kudu ran to sheer exhaustion and the dog swam out and killed the animal right in front of us before dragging it to shore a few meters away.

Image Taken by Mark Homann

Image Taken by Mark Homann

The dog fed on the kudu, going directly for the rich internal organs and stopping every few minutes to look anxiously for the rest of his pack. It surprised us that the wild dog never called for his pack, but we presumed that he was hesitant to do so knowing that the lions were just around the bend (we had seen them chasing the dogs that morning).

With all the excitement, we did not realize that the sun had gone down and night was setting in. A quick sweep of the spotlight revealed a number of crocodile eyes moving in. Attracted by the excitement, the croc moved in closer as the dog tried to drag the heavy kudu higher up the bank. But he was already exhausted. A 10 foot crocodile came out of the water and grabbed a hold of the kudus back legs and held on. The dog tried to pull, but with the combined weight it would not budge. Instead, the dog concentrated on the kudu, removing the animal’s lungs before moving off to the side.

Image Taken by Mark Homann

Thinking that the excitement was over we were surprised to see a hyena arrive. Then the wild dog and croc began engaging in a tug of war. It was impressive to see the strength of this wild dog as he pulled both the kudu and crocodile. The croc would not let go, so the hyena just fed around him, occasionally nipping at his head.  The croc got his price of the kudu’s back leg and we left the hyena feeding on the carcass with an audience of black backed jackals and a spotted eagle owl, knowing that in the morning there would be little other than a few scuff markets to tell of the night’s events.

Image Taken by Mark Homann

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Preserving an Ancient Lifestyle: The San Bushmen

On June 23, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Botswana, Family Safaris, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, By Sandy Salle

Dubbed the “Bushmen” by European colonial settlers, the Sans Tribe was once looked at as a peculiar species of human—some of the early anthropologists believed they were a missing link in the evolution of man. In fact, the Bushmen were considered such a unique species of man that many of them were shipped up to Britain to be subjects featured in “freak shows.”

Today, the Sans—who also continue to be called the Bushmen—are one of our only living links to ancient Africa, and continue to uphold some of their traditional hunter-gatherer ways of life dating back more than 20,000 years ago. Living throughout various countries in Africa including Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, and the Kalahari Desert, many of the Bushmen today have taken on modern lifestyle practices. Some grow crops, work on farms, receive water supply from manmade wells, and receive meat and food from the government.

But, there are still Bushmen today who only use traditional practices. This group consists of less than 2,000 individuals. Below are some of the traditional Bushmen practices that this small segment of Bushmen still use today:

Bushmen Hunting and Gathering Practices: Considered a social activity among the men of the Sans Tribe, hunting excursions require poisonous bows and arrows to kill prey. Used to kill large animals such as antelopes, the Bushmen use a poisonous concoction to stun and kill their prey. Some Bushmen use a mixture of poisonous beetle larvae, others use scorpion and spider essence, while others use a lethal mixture of snake venom and cactus juice. As the arrow penetrates the body, the poisonous mixture works to paralyze the victim and eventually kill it.

Because the animal does not die instantly from the shot, and often runs off after impact, the Bushmen must track the animal several hours after it is fatally wounded. The toxic concoction then works its way through the animal’s body and eventually stops its heart. The area where the arrow penetrated is the only inedible section of meat on the animal and is cut out before eating. The meat and bone marrow is shared by all of the individuals within the tribe and the hides are used for blankets and shelter.

While the men take responsibility for all of the hunting, the women do the gathering. Nearly 80% of food consumed by the San is from gathering. Most of this gathered food consists of berries, fruits, nuts, melons, and other plants. The women often gather three to four days out of the week and sometimes must travel great distances to find the food.

Water is collected by both genders and is often squeezed from plant roots or found when digging deep holes.

Finite Tracking Skills: One of the most enchanting elements of the Bushmen culture is the traditional tracking methods used for hunting. The direction of a single blade of grass, the gathering of twigs and fallen debris in a hoof print, the positioning of a hoof print, and the insects surrounding a print, are just a few observations that enable the Bushmen to track animals.

Through their tracking methods, the Bushmen can determine the sex and age of an animal, the time of day it was in a particular area, its diet, whether it’s injured or traveling with other animals, and its species, as well as the age of the track.

The age of an animal can be determined by observing the animal droppings. If the droppings are rough and not digested completely, this could determine that the animal is older. The age of a track can be determined by the debris that has fallen into it or by the residential termites that have gathered in the track to rebuild their crushed home.

Interact with the Bushmen: Many accommodations and safari tour outfitters throughout Botswana, and Namibia offer interactive bush walks with the San Tribe through the villages in which the tribes live. These local Bushmen share their extensive knowledge about survival and the secrets of the land, and also share their ancient survival skills, hunting techniques, tribal weaponry, and the laws of nature with visitors.

In addition to learning about nature, and hunting and gathering techniques directly from the Bushmen, visitors also witness the Bushmen interact in their unique language, which consists of various “click” sounds.

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5 Reasons Why You Should Get a Personal Safari Guide in Africa

On June 18, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Family Safaris, Honeymoon Safaris, Safari Safety, By Sandy Salle

You’re planning your first trip to Africa. From the time of year to the activities, the accommodations to the destinations, and the amenities to the natural surroundings, you want your entire trip to Africa to be fully customized from top to bottom.

But have you ever considered the various types of safaris and tours that can be experienced in Africa? Everything from small group safaris to personal tours, and game-drive-bustling parks to completely remote reserves, safari tours come in all shapes and sizes.

Although all of these types of safari tours are absolutely splendid, the more personalized and intimate your tours, the better your safari experience will be.

African safari tours

So, if you’re deciding which type of safari tours you wish to experience—in terms of quality, luxury, customization, and intimacy—consider using a completely private safari guide throughout your entire stay in Africa. Here’s why:

  1. No matter where you travel, your personal safari guide will accompany you to that destination and guide all of your safaris—the ultimate in superior service.
  2. You decide when and where you want to go. If you want to stay in a particular area for longer than planned, the choice is up to you. For example, if you love elephants and want to stick around to watch two baby elephants play in the watering hole, you may do so. Your guide has no other requests to accommodate but your own.
  3. Ask all the questions and take all the pictures you desire. It’s your time.
  4. Venture further into the bush than you would on a larger tour. Because your safari guide only has you and your loved one(s) to guide, it’s easier to go deeper into the bush than if there were a larger group of individuals to look after.
  5. When you use a personal safari guide throughout your entire trip to Africa, he or she gets to know your likes and dislikes, and will work to ensure every little detail is looked upon to make for the perfect safari experiences.

So, whether you wish to take an African honeymoon safari or a family safari, a one-on-one experience with a highly trained safari guide is the most rewarding way to experience the bush. But, it is important to remember that although personal guides can bring you closer into the bush and offer customized tours based on your specific preferences and desires, safety and your best interest is always your guide’s number one priority. A request that is unsafe will not be accommodated by your guide.

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7 Common Fears Travelers Have About Africa: The Truth Revealed

On May 17, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Family Safaris, Safari Safety, By Sandy Salle

African safari vacation

1. A hippo or crocodile is going to turn over my canoe while I’m on a mokoro (canoe) safari: Crocodiles and hippos are often busy bathing in the sun and will pay very little attention to a canoe passing by. Besides, the mokoro is way too large for a hippo or crocodile to consume, so why even bother?

In addition to the animals’ sheer lack of care for your mokoro passing by, mokoro safari guides are highly qualified and trained with years of experience before embarking on a mokoro safari with guests. Guides know which areas to avoid and what animals to keep a distance from. Guides also carry a hand-held radio at all times for quick communication to the camp base in case of an emergency.

2. A lion or rhino might attack me on a walking safari tour: Often, you will not see any big game at all on a walking safari but you know they are there as you see signs, such as a fresh leopard track, a worn elephant trail, the warning bark of a secretive bushbuck, or the unmistakable scent of a recently past  elephant herd. These animals would rather carry on their daily life than worry about you—much less attack you.

If you were to encounter a predator while on a walking safari, you are accompanied by an armored and highly trained guide who understands animal behavior and territorial boundaries.  But it is very important to be with people who know what they’re doing. It’s important to ensure that you are with a guide who has the experience and training to handle the unpredictable situations that can develop quickly. A guide with experience can read a situation and avoid it before it even happens. A good guide develops a feel and instinct for the world around him or her, as they spend thousands of hours in the field.

3. A safari camp is the same thing as camping out in the woods with pitiful tents and sleeping bags—not to mention all the bugs: These campsites are often far from your traditional “camping” experience. With amenities and features such as heated water for morning showers, extremely spacious interiors, luxurious bedding and sleeping conditions, and lavish English breakfasts in the morning, you’ll quickly realize that these tents are built for luxury not mobility.

4. I’m going to be doing the same thing every day because big game-viewing is the only thing to do in Africa: Not every country and reserve in Africa is grassland. Some places don’t even offer vehicle safaris, which makes your safari itinerary diverse with a handful of varying activities such as hot air balloon rides, mokoro safaris, horse back riding safaris, cultural tours, and more.

Although zebras, antelope, and buffalo are an absolute thrill to see in the wild, you’re senses will begin to become more attuned to the regional-specific creatures, which, once you take the time to look at, are absolutely fascinating. It’s when you slow down that you start to see the interesting things.

Lunch at La Colombe Restaurant

5. I’m going to hate the food: Often, first-time travelers to Africa are either under the impression that the food will be completely British-based or bizarre meats and delicacies. Both of those assumptions are completely false. In fact, visitors to Africa often have the choice between more traditional African dishes or westernized dishes for the more conservative eater.

6. I’m not going to be able to communicate with anyone: Mostly everyone you interact with speaks English—this includes all safari guides, lodge / camp staff, as well as some of the locals.

7. The mosquitoes are going to be awful: The mosquitoes aren’t as bad as some are led to believe. Some lodges / camps provide mosquito nets if there is the possibility of them getting into your room at night, but most of the time, this is merely a precautionary measure.

During the day, whether you’re enjoying a game drive, walking safari, or mokoro safari, using the right materials to prevent mosquitoes will ensure that you are not exposed to bites. We suggest using bug spray each day and treating your clothes with bug repellent.

Although malaria is a serious disease that has affected many areas of Africa, travelers can avoid this disease by taking the proper medication throughout their stay in Africa and employing the tips above during their stay.

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Great Plains Conservation: The Catalyst for Africas Powerful Conservation Efforts

On April 21, 2010, In Sustainable Tourism, By Sandy Salle

Raising the bar for conservation activists around the world, Great Plains Conservation is taking phenomenal strides to expand its influence on Africa and India alike. In their relentless efforts to conserve and enhance the wildlife of Africa, sustain local communities and economies, and provide visitors to Africa with the ultimate experience, many of the movers and shakers of conservation efforts from all over Africa are joining forces with Great Plains Conservation to execute one of the greatest conservation visions known to the world.

Together, these conservation tourism partners are working hard to protect the many fragile eco-systems and the animals that inhabit them by initiating conservation models that fight to prevent poaching, hunting, mining, pollution, and habitat abuse.

Further, Great Plains Conservation and its partners are quickly proving that their authentic and superior accommodations and services are some of the best in all of Africa.

Such conservation tourism partners joining Great Plains Conservation include . . .

Selinda Reserve & Zarafa and Selinda Camps: Located on the eastern banks of the Selinda Spillway, the waterway that connects the Okavango Delta and the Linyanti water system, the 300-000 acre Selinda Reserve is speckled with wildlife-rich floodplains and savannas. Each of its complex eco-systems are home to a delightful mixture of wildlife including the elusive lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, water birds, leopard, and much more. Every day that you spend in the Selinda Reserve is a new day of spectacular adventure and wildlife observation.

Ol Donyo Wuas: As a symbol of authenticity, tradition, and conservation, Ol Donyo Wuas is one of Kenyas most exceptional and highly-acclaimed lodges. Its neighboring areas are home to the Big Five, making it the premier location for 4X4 game drives and walking safarisincluded in the lodge’s all-inclusive rate. Also included in the rate are horseback safaris past Mt Kilimanjaro, hiking up the Chyulu Hills, mountain biking the savannas, rooftop star beds, and exciting night drives.

Olare Orok Conservancy & Mara Plains Camp: Situated on the Masai Mara Game Reserve, Mara Plains camp is in the heart of Africas largest concentration of lions, as well as the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. With that in mind, its not hard to believe that Mara Plains is one of the best camps in all of Africa for those seeiking adventure and exceptional wildlife sightings. In an effort to preserve the 375,000 acres that make up the reserve and sustain the local community and economy, Mara Plains Camp is a major player in conservation efforts.

The Selous Project & Lekula Selous Camp: Comprised of a full team of expert staff who believe in bringing the spirit of Africa and its radiant wildernesses to life for each and every guest, highly-experienced and certified guides at Tanzanias Lukula Selous Camp have the unique ability to immerse every guest into their natural surroundings. Through their rich knowledge of the land, people, and animals, safari participants discover traditional tracking techniques and a variety of indigenous wildlife found throughout the area.

Ride Kenya: As an affiliate of Ol Donyo Wuas, Ride Kenya is a horseback safari operation that offers half- and full-day riding safaris, as well as their infamous multiday luxury mobile horse safari. With access to over 1.4 million acres of unspoiled landscape, guests have the exclusive opportunity to ride amongst wildlife as they journey past the magnificent slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, through the giraffe speckled savannas, and over the dry lakebeds of Amboseli on horseback. The possibilities are endless.

There are also several non-profit trusts that partner with Great Plains including The Big Cat Initiative, The Maasailand Preservation Trust, and The Island Conservation Society.

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Olarro Lodge’s Kids Club: Where Little Explorers Are Discovered

On March 17, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Family Safaris, Safari Safety, By Sandy Salle

African family safari Celebrating the natural grooves of the Loita hills of Kenya, Olarro lodge incorporates the hills it sits atop into its nature-inspired interior décor. With an eclectic array of natural materials, twisted shapes, and inviting earthy hues, the Olarro lodge is ideal for travelers looking to experience the ultimate in authenticity and luxury in Kenya.

But some features that enable the Olarro lodge to stand above its competitors—besides its exceptional community and conservation efforts, and warming, private atmosphere—are its family-friendly programs.

Traveling with young children—especially to an unfamiliar destination—can seem quite stressful and unappealing. Many questions arise such as, “Will I be able to enjoy my vacation without watching the kids at all times?” “Is there a trustworthy sitter?” “Will the children have a rewarding and knowledgeable experience?” At Olarro lodge, the staff understands your needs, which is why they provide one of the best Kids Club in all of Kenya.

Olarro Lodge Kids ClubThe Olarro Juniors Adventurers Club (OJAC), appropriate for children 6-years old and up, introduces kids to the African bush with children-friendly bush activities, and provides the little adventurists with an insight into the local Maasai culture and lifestyle.

During the OJAC tours, a certified and highly-qualified Maasai guide introduces the kids to…

  • Animal tracking techniques: Incorporating all of the senses, the Maasai guide brings the African bush to life with animal tracking techniques. Kids become adventurous detectives as they listen for the distant animal callings, search for animal tracks, and discover the hidden treasures of the bush.
  • Survival techniques used in traditional Maasai culture: From constructing a shelter for survival, to building a fire from natural resources found in the bush, children will get an insider’s look into the legendary lifestyle of the Maasai people.
  • Plants used for medicinal purposes: Just as important as it was during the time of their ancestors, the Maasai people still use plants found in the African bush to treat ailments and other medical issues. During these tours, kids will discover which plants and trees are used for medicinal purposes in an exciting, yet educational way. From the toothbrush tree to the wet wipe tree, the poison arrow tree to the upset tummy shrub, and the antiseptic and disinfectant shrub to the chewing gum tree, kids learn everything about these plants and their unique features.
  • Environmentally-conscious practices: As the world’s youth places a larger importance on ecological preservation, your little explorer can be front stage to these efforts. What better way to teach them the importance of conservation and preservation efforts than through an interactive experience within the African bush? During the OJAC tours, kids will be introduced to environmentally-friendly practices and learn about how these practices affect nature and the circle-of-life.

After a day of adventure, excitement, and a bit of exercise, the children are brought back to the Olarro lodge for some delectable dinner from the kids menu. Once they’re satisfied, it’s off to bed so you can enjoy a peaceful and delectable dinner with a sundowner or a glass of wine.

African family safari For children over the age of 12, night drives alongside a parent provide them with a wonderful insight into the nocturnal happenings of the bush. Equipped with night-vision binoculars for each guest, the bush comes to life without having to squint or disturb nocturnal creatures with a bright flashlight. Without the night-vision binoculars you would never be able to get up close to some of Africa’s most intimidating creatures, the leopard and the lion.

At the end of your stay at Olarro, kids who participated in the OJAC receive a ceremonial presentation of their diploma certificate, which they can bring back home as a valuable keepsake of their adventures in Kenya.

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Olarro Lodge's Kids Club: Where Little Explorers Are Discovered

On March 17, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Family Safaris, Safari Safety, By Sandy Salle

African family safari Celebrating the natural grooves of the Loita hills of Kenya, Olarro lodge incorporates the hills it sits atop into its nature-inspired interior décor. With an eclectic array of natural materials, twisted shapes, and inviting earthy hues, the Olarro lodge is ideal for travelers looking to experience the ultimate in authenticity and luxury in Kenya.

But some features that enable the Olarro lodge to stand above its competitors—besides its exceptional community and conservation efforts, and warming, private atmosphere—are its family-friendly programs.

Traveling with young children—especially to an unfamiliar destination—can seem quite stressful and unappealing. Many questions arise such as, “Will I be able to enjoy my vacation without watching the kids at all times?” “Is there a trustworthy sitter?” “Will the children have a rewarding and knowledgeable experience?” At Olarro lodge, the staff understands your needs, which is why they provide one of the best Kids Club in all of Kenya.

Olarro Lodge Kids ClubThe Olarro Juniors Adventurers Club (OJAC), appropriate for children 6-years old and up, introduces kids to the African bush with children-friendly bush activities, and provides the little adventurists with an insight into the local Maasai culture and lifestyle.

During the OJAC tours, a certified and highly-qualified Maasai guide introduces the kids to…

  • Animal tracking techniques: Incorporating all of the senses, the Maasai guide brings the African bush to life with animal tracking techniques. Kids become adventurous detectives as they listen for the distant animal callings, search for animal tracks, and discover the hidden treasures of the bush.
  • Survival techniques used in traditional Maasai culture: From constructing a shelter for survival, to building a fire from natural resources found in the bush, children will get an insider’s look into the legendary lifestyle of the Maasai people.
  • Plants used for medicinal purposes: Just as important as it was during the time of their ancestors, the Maasai people still use plants found in the African bush to treat ailments and other medical issues. During these tours, kids will discover which plants and trees are used for medicinal purposes in an exciting, yet educational way. From the toothbrush tree to the wet wipe tree, the poison arrow tree to the upset tummy shrub, and the antiseptic and disinfectant shrub to the chewing gum tree, kids learn everything about these plants and their unique features.
  • Environmentally-conscious practices: As the world’s youth places a larger importance on ecological preservation, your little explorer can be front stage to these efforts. What better way to teach them the importance of conservation and preservation efforts than through an interactive experience within the African bush? During the OJAC tours, kids will be introduced to environmentally-friendly practices and learn about how these practices affect nature and the circle-of-life.

After a day of adventure, excitement, and a bit of exercise, the children are brought back to the Olarro lodge for some delectable dinner from the kids menu. Once they’re satisfied, it’s off to bed so you can enjoy a peaceful and delectable dinner with a sundowner or a glass of wine.

African family safari For children over the age of 12, night drives alongside a parent provide them with a wonderful insight into the nocturnal happenings of the bush. Equipped with night-vision binoculars for each guest, the bush comes to life without having to squint or disturb nocturnal creatures with a bright flashlight. Without the night-vision binoculars you would never be able to get up close to some of Africa’s most intimidating creatures, the leopard and the lion.

At the end of your stay at Olarro, kids who participated in the OJAC receive a ceremonial presentation of their diploma certificate, which they can bring back home as a valuable keepsake of their adventures in Kenya.

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