|
AFRICAN
SAFARI WITH MUSCAT & DUBAI
Countries
visited: Kenya, Tanzania, Oman & UAE |
 |
A
rare and contrasting combination that has been artistically
tailored to offer the best of
the world’s
wild life and game in the natural habitats of, amongst others,
Masai Mara, Sergenti, Ngorongoro with the Middle East’s
most interesting cultures at Muscat & Dubai. Exploring
the wildlife in the green, green pastures followed by the
striking desert scenery and culture this 20-day journey aspires
at a wonderful experience in small group journeys – one
that will never be forgotten.
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Tour
Summary
|
Map |
Day
|
Place
|
|
01
|
Depart
New York |
|
02
|
Arrive Nairobi |
| 03 |
Nairobi / Lake Nakuru |
|
04
|
Lake Nakuru / Masai Mara |
|
05
|
Masai Mara |
|
06
|
Masai Mara / Serengeti |
|
07
|
Serengeti |
|
08
|
Serengeti / Ngorongoro |
|
09
|
Ngorongoro / Lake Manyara |
|
10
|
Lake Manyara |
|
11
|
Lake Manyara / Arusha / Amboseli |
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12
|
Amboseli |
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13
|
Amboseli / Nairobi / Muscat |
| 14 |
Arrive Muscat |
| 15 |
Muscat |
| 16 |
Muscat |
| 17 |
Muscat / Dubai |
| 18 |
Dubai |
| 19 |
Dubai |
| 20 |
Dubai / New York |
|
|
 |
UNESCO
World Heritage Sites Visited
This tour has been tailored to include the following World
Heritage Sites |
| World
Heritage Sites in: Tanzania and Oman covered
in this tour |
Ngorongoro
Conservation Area, Tanzania (1979)
 |
A large permanent concentration of wild animals
can be found in the huge and perfect crater of Ngorongoro.
Nearby, the crater of Empakaai, filled by a deep lake, and
the active volcano of Oldonyo Lenga can be seen. Excavations
carried out in the Olduvai Gorge, not far from there, have
resulted in the discovery of one of our more distant ancestors,
Homo habilis. Laitoli Site, which also lies within the area,
is one of the main localities of early hominid footprints,
dating back 3.6 million years. |
Serengeti
National Park, Tanzania (1981)
 |
The vast plains of the Serengeti comprise 1.5 million ha
of savannah. The annual migration to permanent water holes
of vast herds of herbivores (wildebeest, gazelles and zebras),
followed by their predators, is one of the most impressive
natural events in the world. |
Bahla
Fort, Oman (1987)
 |
The oasis of Bahla owes its prosperity to the Banu Nebhan,
the dominant tribe in the area from the 12th to the end of
the 15th century. The ruins of the immense fort, with its walls
and towers of unbaked brick and its stone foundations, is a
remarkable example of this type of fortification and attests
to the power of the Banu Nebhan. |
| Detailed
Itinerary |
Day 1: Depart
New York for Nairobi
Today, we start off with our Afro – Middle Eastern
safari-journey.
Day 2: Arrive Nairobi
Karibu! We are warmly received in Africa’s most well
known capital – Nairobi. The Kiswahili language here
is often easily understood as many people mix in English words,
in fact more people in Kenya speak English than in any other
African country.
Overnight: Pan Africa Hotel (1 night) (D)
Day 3: Nairobi / Lake Nakuru
We start with an interesting countryside drive to Lake Nakuru
National Park, best known for its flamingos and home to many
animals including waterbuck, leopards Rothschild giraffe and
the endangered black rhino. After a filling lunch at our lodge,
we head out for the first of the many exciting game drives
in our East African Safari.
Overnight: Lake Nakuru Lodge / Lion Hill Lodge (1 night) (B,
L, D)
Day 4: Lake Nakuru / Masai Mara
After breakfast we traverse the Great Rift Valley and ascend
its western rim into the Masai land. Red-clad Masai warriors
tend their herds of cattle among the wildlife, admirably unmoved
by the presence of large predators. Here we also find the Masai
giraffe. After lunch at our lodge, we embark on one of the
most exciting game Africa has to offer.
Overnight: Mara Simba Lodge / Mara Serena Lodge (2 nights)
(B, L, D)
Day 5: Masai Mara
Morning and afternoon game drives in this spectacular game
reserve, all with superb photographic opportunities. Blessed
with a permanent water supply, Masai Mara has a permanent population
of plains game. The "big five" - elephant, buffalo,
lion, leopard and rhino are quite common. Today we may opt
for an early morning optional balloon excursion to experience
a birds-eye view of the vast Mara. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Masai Mara / Serengeti
Today we depart for Tanzania home to the best game in the world.
We cross the Isebania Border to Tanzania –the home of
Mount Kilimanjaro, the world famous Serengeti and Ngorongoro
Crater Game Parks as well as the spice island of Zanzibar.
Our destination is Seregngeti which literally means “endless
plains”
Overnight: Serengeti Serena Lodge (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 7: Serengeti
We begin our Tanzanian adventure at the world famous wildlife
sanctuary - the Serengeti National Park which at 14,763 sq
kms is the largest National Park in Tanzania. Summed up as
'one of the most unique areas in the world',Serengeti contains
the largest remaining concentration of plains game in Africa,
on a scale, which has no parallel any where in the world. The
abundance of herbivores includes wildebeest, Zebra, Gazelle,
Topi, Buffalo, and Hartebeest, to name but a few. Serengeti
is also famous for Predators e.g. Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, Hyena
and contains a wide variety of birdlife, believed to be in
the region of 500 species. (B, L, D)
Day 8: Serengeti / Ngorongoro
Another day game drive in Serengeti National Park with picnic
lunch. We explore various areas like Moro kopjes and Gol kopjes.
The extensive grasslands are interspersed with Kopjes rocky
outcrops like islands in the flat plain, each with their own
wildlife communities. Discover the Seronera River which flows
through the park, providing habitats for a variety of birds,
mammals and reptiles. Afternoon we proceed to Nabi Hill gate
were you enjoy our picnic lunch before proceeding to Malanja
depresion entering Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 9: Ngorongoro / Lake Manyara
We descend the famous Ngorongoro Crater for a day of superb
game viewing. The Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's most magnificent
wildlife arenas, is approximately 19 km/12 miles across and
its prairies are a haven for an estimated 30,000 large mammals,
including lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Elephant, Hyena, Hippo, Wildebeest,
Baboon, Gazelle and the endangered black Rhino. At a depth
of 610 meters/2,000 feet, this crater, created by the collapse
of an extinct volcano, contains a "Lost World" of
wildlife. It is our exciting crater safari today before we
drive to Lake Manyara in the later afternoon.
Overnight: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 10: Lake Manyara
After breakfast to Lake Manyara National Park which is one
of the finest parks in Tanzania your will enjoy your morning
and afternoon game drive followed by choice of Picnic lunch
at Lunch at your lodge, pm depart towards the village of Mtowa
Mbu and Great Rift Valley than proceed to your unique safari
lodge which offers a spectacular view of the Lake Manyara National
Park. (B, L, D)
Day 11: Lake Manyara / Arusha / Amboseli
After our Northern Tanzania game experience, we take another
scenic drive crossing the beautiful Great Rift Valley to the
colorful villages of Mto wa Mbu and Makayuni. At Arusha, which
is the exact center between Cape Town and Cairo, we stop for
lunch. We then cross the Namanaga border between Tanzania and
Kenya and then drive to the Amboseli National Park that is
situated at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro (5922 meters/19,430
ft). Amboseli is also famous for its vast herds of elephants
and stunning views of Kilimanjaro. We take the opportunity
of another game drive before checking into our lodge for the
night.
Overnight: Amboseli Serena Lodge / Oltukai Lodge (2 nights)
(B, L, D)
Day 12: Amboseli
After breakfast drive to Amboseli, situated at the foothills
of Mount Kilimanjaro (19,430 ft). Amboseli is famous for its
vast herds of elephants and stunning views of Kilimanjaro on
clear days. Be sure to have your camera ready. Lunch at the
lodge and Afternoon game drive en route to your lodge in search
of Elephant, Giraffe, Buffalo and much more. (B, L, D)
Day 13: Amboseli / Nairobi / Muscat
Our last day is comprised of two game drives. We start with
an early morning safari providing majestic views of Kilimanjaro.
After breakfast at our lodge we again take on the wildlife
against the backdrop of the highest peak in Africa. With lunch
we bid farewell as we drive to Nairobi airport for our departure
flight. (B, L)
Day 14: Arrive Muscat
As we arrive at Muscat, the pearl of the Gulf region, we are
warmly received and transferred to our hotel. Evening is free
to enjoy the beach area.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza (3 nights) (B)
Day 15: Muscat
The Sultanate of Oman has a history that dates back to almost
3000 BC, in an era known as Magan. The Samaritans inhabited
the country around 4000 BC followed by the Phoenicians, Assyrians,
Babylonians, Shabeans and finally the Persians. At this time,
Oman became famous for its trade of copper and frankincense
throughout the Arabian world. By the year 630 AD Islam was
established in Oman and the religion quickly spread. We start
the day with a Muscat Discovery tour, which includes the Oman
Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Ministries Area in
Al Khuwair, the Aalam Palace, the Corniche and a unique traditional
fish market. Afternoon is free to enjoy the bazaars of Muscat
and the beach. (B)
Day 16: Muscat
Today we enjoy a day excursion to Nizwa, built by the great
Imam Sultan Bin Seif. In the 17th Century Nizwa was chosen
as the capital, due to its well-protected position and construction.
Even today it remains one of Oman’s
most impressive towns. We begin our tour with a visit to the
massive circular fort, surrounded by vast mud walls. We explore
Jabrin Castle and the World Heritage Site of Bahla Fort. The
ruins of the immense fort, with walls and towers of earthen
brick and foundations of stone, provide a remarkable example
of this type of fortification. Jabrin Castle, built by Imam
Bilarab in 1675 AD, is an edifice surpassing all other forts
in Oman, both in size and magnificence. One cannot help but
admire the extraordinary carved wood paneling and friezes painted
on the walls. Verses from the Koran and poems engraved in the
walls celebrate the beauty of this grand castle. Moving on,
we arrive at the Nizwa Souq where a unique goat and cattle
auction is held. On our return to Muscat, we enjoy a visit
to the aromatic Amouage perfume factory. (B)
Day 17: Muscat / Dubai
Morning we are transferred to Dubai – the capital of
the world. The sheikhdom is the fastest growing city-state
in the world and offers amongst the most unique and attractions
that makes blows one apart coupled with the fact that it is
also the most popular duty free town. Evening is free to loiter
and shop and take advantage of bargains, and bargains.
Overnight: Ascot Hotel (3 nights) (B)
Day 18: Dubai
Our morning city tour of Dubai includes the Jumeirah Mosque,
the Museum, as well as the Spice and Gold Souqs. Our next stop
is the Emirate of Sharjah, including a visit to the Natural
History Museum, the Discovery Center, the Aviation Museum and
the Cultural Center. We then take a short drive to the Emirate
of Ajman, where we will visit the Ajman Museum, the Dhow building
yard, the Pearl Monument, the King Faizal Mosque, the Bird & Animal
Market, the Al Arsah Souq, Al Hisn Fort, Bait Al Naboodah and
the Islamic & Art Museum.
Early evening we are transferred to the desert for an exciting
desert safari. We go over and down the sand dunes, with laughter,
viewing the desert and it’s life style – what a
contrast to the fast developing Dubai!. This is followed by
an entertainment of belly dancing and BBQ over camel and other
meats and enjoying the traditional hubbly bubbly. Late evening,
over starlight desert sky, we are transferred back to our hotel
in Dubai. (B)
Day 19: Dubai
Day free to enjoy the many other attractions that Dubai has
to offer. (B)
Day 20: Dubai / New York
After experiencing the best of East African safaris and the
cultures of Oman and Dubai, we are transferred, with lots of
memories, to the airport for our return flight back home. (B) |
|
B
= Breakfast
|
L
= Lunch
|
D
= Dinner
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Departure Dates |
|
2008
Jan 13 & 27, Feb 10 & 25, Mar 09 & 23, Apr 06 & 20, May 04 & 21,
Sep 22, Oct 05 & 19, Nov 08 & 13
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| Prices |
| Season |
Tour
Price US$ / CA$ |
Single
Sup US$ / CA$ |
| 2008 |
5485 |
750 |
| *
Easter and Christmas high season surcharge at US/CA $45
per night |
| Tour
Price Includes |
Tour
Price Does Not Include: |
- Accommodation
as mentioned or similar category
- Meals as specified in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch,
D=Dinner)
- All
transfers and sightseeing with services of local English
speaking guides.
- Entrance
fees to museums, sites and game parks
- Game
park fees
|
- International
airfares (see Note
below)
- Visa fees
- Insurance
- Tips
/ Gratuities
|
| Domestic
/ Regional Airfare INCLUDED in Tour Price |
NOTE:
International airfares range from ex East Coast to Dubai and Nairobi combined
at $ 1300 plus taxes (approx $ 300). West Coast supplement is $ 250. |
| Estimated
International Airfare(
not included in tour price) |
| East
Coast |
US $ / CA $
N/A |
| West
Coast |
US $ / CA $
N/A |
| Please
note:
This tour operates with a minimum of 02
and a maximum of 06
participants. |
| Other
Dates / Customized Itinerary / Languages |
In addition to our set programs we are also pleased
to offer customized tours.
Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your
individual needs.
Customized tours can be conducted in English, French,
German, Spanish or Italian. Each departure is conducted
in the designated language only. |
| Contact
Information |
|
|
Fax:
+1-604-264-7774
|
| 206–8678
Greenall Ave |
Phone:
+1-604-264-7378 |
| Burnaby
B.C., Canada |
Toll
Free (US & Canada): 1-800-663-0844 |
| V5J
3M6 |
Email:
bestway@bestway.com |
|
30
years in small group journeys
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Site
updated April 04, 2008
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