Dear Safari Colleagues,

We’re most proud & delighted to introduce our latest luxury safari initiative and in anticipation thank you for taking the time to peruse our bespoke credentials.

With over 50 years experience, Southern Cross Safaris, is one of the most established, most reputable, owner-managed safari tour operators in East Africa.As a classical modern day Destination Management Company we are committed to providing the highest standards of customer service and client care second to none within the region in which we operate.

Having provided stylish, unusual and truly memorable safaris to a vast array of satisfied clients during this time, our philosophy of ‘excellence through experience’ is well founded. The next step in our ever evolving business is specifically to listen to, satisfy & exceed the expectations of the discerning, sophisticated traveller who’s looking for unique tailor made safari experiences.

With this in mind the Southern Cross group has now launched the ‘Connoisseur Safaris’ brand.

Experienced in-country staff are here to create memorable adventures which neither compromise on luxury, nor on personal attention to service. Our chairman, Mike Kirkland and myself, Torben Rune, both third generation Kenyans, take a personal interest in the planning, right through to the completion of every Connoisseur Safari.

Southern Cross Safaris manages its own fleet of over 100 vehicles, ranging from transfer vehicles, safari microbuses, air-conditioned 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers to open-sided Land Rover 135TDi’s. In addition to our extensive fleet, the Southern Cross Safari group also operates its own luxuriously appointed Cessna 208 Caravan airplane, two luxury safari camps (in Amboseli & Tsavo) and several watersports centres on Kenya’s Diani Beach.

With a reputation built up over a sizeable time period within the business, the Southern Cross group & Connoisseur Safaris, enjoys a ‘favoured’ client status with all leading East African hotel and lodge companies. We endeavour to offer a hand picked selection of not just competitively priced accommodations but also the more luxurious game lodges, tented safari camps, beach resorts and exclusive hotels together with unique travel experiences in the East African region.

The ability to meet the needs of the most demanding and discerning clientele, has firmly established Southern Cross Safaris’ distinguished credentials within the travel industry worldwide.

A reputation that has been recognised by over 12 awards in the last few years, including being voted “Best Tour Operator in Kenya” in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.

With this established reputation, we’ve created a distinctive platform from which Connoisseur Safaris can offer the most luxurious safari experiences in East Africa.

Hoping our promises can become your reality!

Safari Njema!

Mike Kirkland Torben RuneChairman Managing Director

From the country where the ‘safari’ originated one can discover an amazing diversity of landscapes, a myriad of animal, bird and plant life, fascinating culture and warrior tribes.

Kenya contains almost every known landform, from true glacial ice to arid desert, mountain massifs to sprawling savannahs, large lakes and dense forests. The Great Rift Valley, its floor littered with beautiful lakes and extinct volcanoes, cuts through this land from North to South.

Mt. Kenya (at 17,058 ft/5,199 m) with its dramatic snow-capped peaks stands sentinel above rolling grassland plains and the intriguing semi-desert wilderness much further to the north. Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and source of the River Nile dominates the South West of the country and Lake Turkana with its paleontological history and haunting landscapes, borders the North.

To the South and South East, Kenya meets the Indian Ocean in a brilliant blaze of blue where the crystal clear azure waters caress fine white sands and amazing corals reefs harbour another safari-world under the warm waves running up and down 536 km of pristine beaches.

However, Kenya’s ultimate attraction is its concentration of spectacular wildlife found in its 48 national parks and game sanctuaries. Whether it be the greatest game show on earth with the annual wildebeest migration or the world’s greatest ornithological spectacle of millions of flamingoes on Lake Nakuru, Kenya’s flora and fauna is captivating to even the most seasoned traveller.

Recreating the history of the country’s earliest settlers and the explorers - Denys Finch Hatton, Karen Blixen, Lord Delamere, Elspeth Huxley and Ernest Hemingway to name but a few, can be done in privacy and away from the crowds. With an excellent variety of privately owned bush homesteads, small hideaway lodges and nights under canvas in exclusive permanent or mobile camps, it’s possible to experience the magic of the country as it was in days gone by.

With safaris on offer that include walking, fishing, camel trekking and horse riding it is possible to experience Kenya the way our forefathers discovered this continent of adventure.

K E N Y A

Samburu, Shaba & buffalo SpringS national gamE rESErvESA world apart from the lush green parks of the south, this fascinating semi-desert Northern frontier district of Kenya has its own unique species not found in the less arid areas of the south. The tranquil Ewaso Nyiro River flowing through these parks provides an ideal habitat for crocodiles, large herds of elephants, elusive leopards and endemic species including Grevy’s Zebra, Gerenuk, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx and Somali Ostrich.

This Northern rugged area is a set against a background of jagged purple mountains providing some of the best game viewing in the country.

maaSai mara gamE rESErvEAdjacent to Tanzania’s Serengeti and forming one integrated ecosystem, the Mara is a 1,510 km sq reserve of vast rolling plains, hills and woodland groves bisected by the Mara River, with huge grazing herds, attendant predators, including Africa’s largest population of lions, elephant, buffalo and bountiful birdlife. The Mara is the staging ground for the annual wildebeest great migration - awesome river crossings and endless processions of moving animals - making it truly one of the natural wonders of the world.

mEru national parkOf all the parks, Meru (870 km sq) has the widest variety of landscape and habitats - forest, swamps & savannah divided by many streams and rivers all rising in the foothills of Mt. Kenya and the Nyambene Hills, ending in the mighty Tana River forming a natural boundary to the South.

This was the wilderness into which George and Joy Adamson released Elsa the lioness, creating the much loved film ‘Born Free’.

With herds of elephant, both species of Rhino and Northern species such as Grevy’s Zebra, Oryx & Reticulated Giraffe, one can observe these rare mammals without being disturbed by another soul. The riverside forests are a birders’ paradise providing refuge for many rare localized species.

tSavo national parkOn the far side of the Chyulu Hills lies Tsavo National Park which is divided into East and West. It is actually bigger than Wales and is one of the largest game sanctuaries in the world. Here one can explore vast remote tracts of wilderness undisturbed by human influence.

Jagged mountains, red soil & scattered water holes amongst thorn bush, typify this landscape.

Elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and African wild dog can be tracked along the dry riverbeds of this remote wilderness. The Athi River bisecting Tsavo provides an arterial lifeline for a diversity of fauna and flora.

lakE nakuru national park and lakE ElEmEntaitaWorld famous for its millions of pink flamingoes, Lake Nakuru is an ornithologist’s Mecca. Flotillas of pelicans swimming by, hundreds of storks, herons, egrets and other water birds add to this natural menagerie of color. The park is also one of the few reserves left where one can see both black & white rhinos thanks to an excellent conservation program.

Together with lurking lions, giraffes and leopard, Lake Nakuru provides excellent game viewing amongst the Yellow-Barked Acacia forests.

amboSEli & Chyulu hillS national parkSThe great Amboseli plain with its parched alkaline salt pans, strange mirages and oasis marshes & lakes is dominated by the glistening majestic snow cap of Mt. Kilimanjaro (19,340 ft/ 5,894 m). This is Masai country, a proud, nomadic people, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Huge herds of elephants and buffalo are common, together with lion and a host of antelope species

The Chyulu Hills are the natural border between the Masai & the Kamba people and are perfect for walking and horse riding safaris.

marinE parkS & CoaStKenya has five marine parks and reserves established to protect the wealth of the undersea life along 536 km of Kenya’s coastline. Diving, snorkeling and exploring this world of coral reefs teeming with life and colour is a safari itself. Dolphins, turtles, giant moray eels, rays and barracuda can be found close to shore whilst the deep blue ocean offers unlimited deep sea sport fishing in season (August to March). Experienced crews and well-equipped boats fish for marlin, sailfish, broadbill, tuna and wahoo with great success. Humpback Whales and Whale sharks visit these coastal waters from July to September to raise their young.

At the Northern and Southern ends of the Kenyan coastline, idyllic, exclusive ‘Robinson Crusoe’ style hideaways can be discovered. These remote and exclusive lodges, hotels and homesteads provide seclusion, peace and tranquility with uncompromised luxury to be expected with first-class cuisine and ultimate relaxation.

laikipiaOnce a series of larger private cattle ranches and traditional grazing land, changing times and fortunes have seen these vast, spectacular tracts of land turned into successful wildlife and conservation areas. Local communities and private ranches work together to conserve wildlife, traditional lifestyles and cultures. Together they create stunning luxury eco-tourist destinations using only natural building materials and features. Beautiful private homesteads can be found amongst herds of antelope, roaming elephants and rhino conservation areas. An ideal area for camel trekking, walking, riding and biking.

lakE viCtoriaAt 69,000 km sq, Lake Victoria is the second largest body of freshwater in the world (only Lake Superior is larger). The lake surface is 1,134 m / 3,720 ft above sea level. The climate here is extremely favorable with temperatures ranging from between 20˚C and 28˚C.

Bird life is prolific around the lake shores with Fish Eagles, egrets, herons, storks, ibises, cormorants and kingfishers in abundance.

Giant fig trees, centuries old, stand along the shoreline and various oases can be found along the lake where it is possible to rest in complete relaxation. One can experience the traditional fishing village, enjoy active or passive water sports for example fishing and water skiing and relax in the sun. It could easily be appreciated and enjoyed as an alternative to the ocean coastline.

Half the size of Western Europe, Tanzania is East Africa’s largest nation. It is a massive country with a kaleidoscope of landscapes, wildlife and people.

Over a quarter of Tanzania is made up of National Parks, Game Reserves and controlled areas. For the most part nature still reigns supreme and man comes second for a change.

Whilst the late dry season can bring huge herds of elephants to Tarangire, the spectacular migration of wildebeest into the vast Serengeti is a sight to behold.

Further East is the Ngorongoro Crater, an unequalled caldera which reveals on its floor a magical world teeming with animals and spectacular views from its crater rim.

The Southern parks, Selous and Ruaha, remain off the beaten track and are immersed in vast wilderness for those who want to avoid fellow humans.

Lake Tanganyika which runs along the western border, is Africa’s deepest and longest fresh water lake. On its Eastern shore one can find the spectacular Mahale Mountains with their chimpanzee forest galleries and primate sanctuaries.

There’s always the option of ending a safari on Tanzania’s coast or on historical Zanzibar where Bantu and Arab cultures merge with a backdrop of some of the best beaches in the world.

Of course there is Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa (5,895 m/19,340 ft) rising majestically out of the dusty Northern Masai bush land. Its densely forested sides give way to blue glaciers and an unbelievable peak of white snow at the summit.

T A N Z A N I A

SErEngEti national parkThe Serengeti is undoubtedly the most famous wildlife sanctuary in the world, unequalled for its natural beauty and greatest concentration of plains game anywhere.

Covering 14,500 km sq, it is renowned for its lions and other predators which in turn thrive on the vast herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelopes.

Calving takes place in January in the Southern sector before the wildebeest embark on their arduous trek north in search of fresh grazing. The Western Corridor, a narrow strip of dense vegetation provides one of the biggest migratory barriers. In search of grass they must cross the murky crocodile infested Grumeti River, enroute North to the Masai Mara. The herds pass through here in April & May reaching Northern Serengeti in June.

lakE manyara national parkAs you approach Lake Manyara National Park your first view is spectacular, regardless of direction. When you approach it from the East, the Rift Valley Escarpment looms on the horizon forming an impressive backdrop to the lake. Approaching from the west and viewing from the top of the escarpment, the park lies in a green strip below, the shallow alkaline lake reflecting in the sunlight. Thousands of flamingoes & pelicans use this lake as one of the stopping off points on this Rift Valley aerial highway. The large variety of mammals, reptiles and birds in the park, all within a small area, make Lake Manyara a diverse and particularly memorable place to visit en route to Ngorongoro & Serengeti.

tarangirE national park With hundreds of huge baobabs scattered across this dry landscape large herds of elephants pass through here in search of food. The Tarangire River provides the arterial lifeline for all the game. It then runs into huge swamps in the south. To the Northwest, in direct contrast, the lush Lake Manyara National Park with its prolific birdlife provides a forest home to thousands of monkeys and tree climbing lions.

ngorongoro CratErCovering an area of 264 km sq, this is the largest caldera in the world and has an abundance of wildlife permanently resident on the crater floor. The crater approach is a unique experience, the road winds upwards through a beautiful area of montane forests and flowering meadows, before a final bend which then reveals the crater 2,000 ft below in all its incomparable glory.

A unique ecosystem where one can observe Africa’s predator and prey unfold their daily ritual at close quarters. The crater floor with its grasslands, salt pans & stands of Acacia forest hosts a fascinating diversity of large mammal species.

ruaha national parkRuaha National Park is the second largest national park in Tanzania. It covers an area of about 12,950 km sq. It is located in the middle of Tanzania about 130 km from Iringa. The park is part of a more extensive ecosystem which includes the Rungwa & Usangu Game Reserves.

This unspoilt wilderness derives its name from the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its south-eastern margin and is the focus for game-viewing. Driving along the Ruaha River with its rocky gorges and deep pools provides a wonderful scenic backdrop to look for large cats, Elephants, Roan & Sable antelope. Guests can stay in one of the six lodges & camps to be found here. The park can be reached by car via Iringa and there is an airstrip at Msembe, park headquarters.

SElouS gamE rESErvE.This remote reserve in southern Tanzania has vast tracts of virgin bush and provides the more adventurous travellers with a taste of untouched Africa.

The Selous Game Reserve (54,490 km sq) is 5 times the size of the Serengeti and with its mighty Rufiji River, forests and rolling savannah, is one of the strongholds for some of Africa’s wildest elephants. Due to its remote location, being only easily accessible by small aircraft, the Selous Game Reserve has remained one of the untouched gems of Tanzania’s wilderness areas, and offers visitors a chance to see a wild and expansive Africa far from paved roads and curio shops.

Being a game reserve walking activities & canoeing on the Rufiji River are allowed. This can bring about close encounters with the elusive, endangered African Wild dog.

U G A N D A

Arcing around the northern end of Lake Victoria, is Uganda one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations. Uganda is home to 10 national parks and several protected areas harbouring the sought after ‘big five’... lion, elephant, leopard,

buffalo and rhino. Wild Chimpanzee trekking can be undertaken along hidden gorges & the undisturbed gallery forests at Kibale National Park , Queen Elizabeth National Park & Semliki.

In the very SW corner of Uganda, the aptly named Bwindi Impenetrable Forest holds nearly half of the world’s entire population of rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas.Chic, luxurious forest lodges camouflage themselves discreetly within these montane forest canopies. Gorilla trekking can be arduous but the awesome encounter with these huge apes is a lifelong treasured experience.

Incredibly, over 1,000 different bird species can be found in Uganda, more than any other country in Africa! From organised white water rafting on the mighty Nile River, trekking the snow-capped glaciers of the Ruwenzori Mountains, to taking a boating safari along side hippos and crocs up to the thundering crash of the breathtaking Murchison Falls... Uganda has immense unspoilt diversity.

R W A N D A

For many the image of Rwanda remains shrouded in mystery and misconception.

Located geographically in the heart of Africa, along the Albertine Rift Valley, it is a tiny country, full of paradoxes, breathtaking beauty and a biodiversity that belies

its physical size. Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, much of the country is at high altitude, accentuated by a string of five breathtaking volcanoes.

In the sweep of this Great Rift Valley, Rwanda possesses the last montane rainforest in East & Central Africa and is one of the last refuges of the endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Rwanda has shimmering lakes, primeaval forests full of rare monkeys & chimpanzees, endemic bird species & butterflies alongside the grasslands & swamps of Akagera National Park.

Whilst the Virunga Mountains in the Parc National Volcans is the main centre of attraction, other areas such as Lake Kivu & Nyungwe Forest in the SW of the country have a concentration of fauna & flora that is astonishing.

A renewed energy within Rwanda is evident from the new recent tourism developments in key national parks and the positive drive & goodwill of the Rwanda people wishing to embrace their new economy.

The capital Kigali, is a vibrant city with new smart hotels, French restaurants and its own international airport.

Rwanda is easily accessible (1.5 hrs from Nairobi by air) and despite all the previous misconceptions, is now becoming one of the safest countries on the continent.

U G A N D A & RWA N D A

volCanoES national parkSurely one of the most awesome, breathtaking wildlife experiences on earth is to sit & observe a huge Silverback Mountain Gorilla advertising his presence amongst the rain forest slopes of the Virungas. Observing gorilla families at close quarters creates an unforgettable experience and the Virungas is home to more than half of the world’s remaining 650 Mountain Gorillas.

Carefully monitored conservation & protection practices have enabled these huge, shy animals to tolerate the presence of humans in their natural domain.

Guests can also track the little known Golden Monkeys on the lower slopes.

nyungwE forESt national parkSituated in the South West corner of Rwanda extending for 1000 km sq is Nyungwe Forest one of the largest montane forests in East & Central Africa. Dating back to before the ice age with its prehistoric atmosphere it’s incredibly rich in biodiversity.

Nyungwe harbours 13 species of primates including Chimpanzees, L’Hoests Monkey, Colobus & Mangabeys.

With several endemic bird spps the forest also supports 250 types of trees, shrubs & flowering plants including 100 species of orchid & Giant Lobelia standing like sentinels as if extra terrestrial.

QuEEn ElizabEth national parkQueen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular game reserve for safaris and certainly one of the most scenic. Extending for nearly 2000 km sqs It stretches from the crater dotted foothills of the Ruwenzori range in the north, along the shores of Lake Edward to the remote Ishasha River in the south, incorporating a wide variety of habitats that range from savanna and wetlands to gallery and lowland forest. This remarkable diversity is reflected in its bird list of over 550 species, the largest of any protected area in Africa. The park can showcase its chimpanzees in the northern sector to the tree climbing lions of Ishasha Gorge.

S A F A R I S T Y L E

tailor-madE SafariSTravel, visit and stay where you want, when you want to.

Organising a customized tailor made safari is primarily about knowledge of the product, the wilderness areas, logistical organization & meeting specific client expectations.

Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda & Tanzania offer a myriad of tailor-made safari opportunities from chimpanzee treks in Tanzania, horse riding in Laikipia, big game fishing on the Indian Ocean, gorilla treks in Rwanda to the wonders of the Serengeti & the Masai Mara There’s an extensive choice from the familiar National Parks and Reserves to the more unspoiled and rarely visited wilderness areas, from private game lodges to exclusive far off the beaten track hideaway tented lodges, private charters, camel-back safaris, mountain gorilla viewing, fly fishing & helicopter excursions.

These itineraries tailor made to each individual request can be altered to suit any brief and timeframe

The Connoisseur Safaris team has extensive first hand knowledge of these products, offering reliable, accurate and unbiased travel advice in tailor-making trips to meet individual requirements and budgets.

Detailed planning, research & checking is done to ensure that all expectations are fulfilled and that each safari creates a positive, long lasting, memorable impression.

rEgular dEparturE Safari tourS Southern Cross Safaris offers a number of regular departure tours which appeal to a wide range of nationalities and budgets. These safaris offer an ideal opportunity to experience the highlights of Kenya and Tanzania without incurring the expense of an exclusive private customised safari.

We have designed a selection of tours by road and/or air, featuring all of the major game parks and reserves throughout the region.

These tours range from a one-night stay at a “tree lodge” to a comprehensive fifteen-day safari incorporating the very best of both Kenya and Tanzania’s wildlife areas

With a wide selection of tours operating throughout the week, one can plan a safari according to preference and time available.

ground handling, arrivalS and prE-Safari briEfingSConnoisseur Safaris’ staff meets each and every client arriving at both Nairobi and Mombasa airports.

Our aim is to provide a seamless, organized, punctual itinerary for the safari traveller which takes care of every detail from the minute a guest arrives in East Africa, to the time when they have to return to their home country or onward journey.

After a short transfer and on arrival at their respective hotel, a representative from Connoisseur Safaris briefs all our clients. The briefing covers useful facts about local customs, currency and general advice regarding their safari itinerary. Our staff are also available to assist with flight reconfirmations & any additional requirements that clients may have or simply give advice on shopping and eating out in Nairobi.

Naturally, emergency contact with our staff is always available, 24 hours a day in Kenya, Tanzania & Rwanda, should our clients find it necessary to reach us after normal office hours.

our Safari vEhiClESGuests visiting East Africa are ensured that they will always be travelling in the latest, modern, clean kept safari vehicles appropriate for the relevant territory and itinerary. Our extensive fleet of vehicles consists of custom-built, specially modified four-wheel drive safari Land Cruisers and Land Rovers on all guided safaris in Kenya and Tanzania.

In some of the warmer locations our 4WD Landcruisers are equipped with air-conditioning units front & back to keep clients cool & comfortable at all times.

Our vehicles have roof hatches and high ground clearance to optimize all round visibility for game viewing and photography.

A cool box, binoculars and wildlife reference books are standard equipment in all vehicles. In addition, each vehicle is equipped with an HF radio set, giving countrywide communication with our manned radio room, 24 hours a day.

Connoisseur Safaris adheres to a strict self-imposed policy of high maintenance standards and reliable service delivery for all vehicles, at all times. This we achieve by having our own workshops & service staff.

Responsible driving taking into account personal safety, the welfare of animals and minimum habitat disturbance is always considered and implemented

our Safari drivErS /guidESThe success of any safari tour in Africa largely depends upon the calibre of the safari driver/guide. He /she can make or break any trip. Their personality, knowledge & customer service skills are paramount to running a successful safari. We exercise the greatest care in selecting responsible, qualified people who are capable of providing a pleasurable, knowledgeable and attentive service to our clients.

To this end, all our safari driver guides at Connoisseur Safaris are qualified to KPSGA (Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association) Bronze level standard and many have attained Silver level proficiency.

This is a minimum stipulation we require before considering hiring in this field. All of our guides have undertaken rigorous training and refresher courses & are experts in their chosen fields. Some of our guides are bilingual, and all have an in-depth knowledge of routes, conditions, local attractions and practical mechanics.

Their competency in finding & identifying Africa’s fauna & flora is an obvious pre-requisite skill.

privatE profESSional Safari guidES Connoisseur Safaris is happy to arrange experienced private professional guides on safari whether you’re on a tailor made safari or part of a bigger group.

Their life spent in Africa has equipped them with immense knowledge of local conditions, customs, people & their cultures. They are trained naturalists, passionate about the country and its wildlife. Above all, they are ardent conservationists, each with a particular discipline such as mammalian behaviour, ornithology, entomology, anthropology or archaeology.

These guides can add real depth of interest to those wishing to learn & hear more about East Africa’s rich & varied biodiversity. Guests will benefit in terms of an enhanced, intensified personal experience throughout their African sojourn, far outweighing the additional monetary cost.

Please don’t hesitate to ask if you would like a Private Professional Safari Guide, available for a supplementary cost, at the time of booking.

walking, aCtivity & Sporting SafariSGiven the wide diversity of landscapes from mountain forests to dry deserts, fast flowing rivers and serene alpine lakes to calm oceans, sporting and adventure style activities are easily integrated into a wildlife itinerary.

Excellent golf courses can be found in Nairobi, the Great Rift Valley and at several coast locations. With good rainfall & experienced course management, the greens & fairways are in fine condition, surprising even the most serious die-hard golfers.

For fishing enthusiasts choose from remote fly fishing trout rivers & lakes high in the mountains to gigantic Nile Perch on Lake Victoria & Lake Turkana.

Big game fishing in season (Oct-Mar) can compete with some of the worlds’s best in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Often the ‘big five’ billfish (broadbill, marlin & sailfish) with canny tuna, Dorado & Barracuda will tire out the most experienced anglers.

Watersports including waterskiing & sailing can be indulged on the Great Rift Valley Lakes, Lake Victoria & of course on the calm ocean waters.

Horse riding and camel trekking safaris can be planned in some of the more undisturbed destinations where unlimited access allows one to roam freely amongst wildlife and dramatic scenery.

For those wishing to have an up-close experience with Kenya’s wildlife at close quarters, walking & trekking safaris accompanied by an armed professional guide allows one to share many of nature’s mysteries & secrets first hand. Tracks, trails & herbal uses of the indigenous plants are often explained by the local tribes folk who also trek alongside you.

our own luxury air SafariS Southern Cross Safaris together with its partners, own and operate the latest luxury Cessna C208 Grand Caravan G1000 aircraft; equipped with just eight Oasis leather interior swivel /reclining seats, air-conditioning, headsets & intercoms for each passenger and the latest in navigational avionics.

We have experienced, professional bush pilots and top rated professional safari guides on board each ‘Out of Africa’ flight. Their dialogue & narrative is both educational & stimulating for those on board reflecting on the captivating landscapes below.

With the latest and most modern avionic equipment we ensure that the flight becomes an integral part of your safari experience, not just a means of getting from place to place. We try to make the journey as exceptional as the destination.

The luxury air safaris also run an ‘Out of Africa’ scheduled weekly itinerary, over 7nights, staying at four different safari locations whereby passengers can reserve seats on this fixed itinerary or alternatively one can charter this extremely comfortable luxury aircraft for private safaris.

For more on this service please contact us or visit the website: www.severinairsafaris.com

SChEdulEd air SErviCES and privatE ChartErSOne of the best ways to enjoy East Africa is to take advantage of the comprehensive, reliable network of internal scheduled flight services operating between all major towns, cities and the National Parks and Reserves.

These services are offered on a per seat basis and operated in either single or multi engine aircraft.

For the ultimate in convenience, a wide range of aircraft are available for private charters. Your own personal aircraft offers accessibility to those airstrips not serviced by scheduled flights, with total flexibility as to timing and routing. Many of the smaller camps, lodges and boutique hotels offered to our tailor-made clients are ‘off the beaten track’, and it is only practically possible to fly to some of these remote destinations. For these itineraries we only use the very best experienced pilots and the very best equipped aircraft.

It is possible to charter your own helicopter & explore remote locations like the Northern Frontier, Lake Turkanaand the majestic peaks & trout filled tarns of Mt. Kenya. Alternatively take a balloon trip or a short scenic flight over thesweeping savannahs of the Masai Mara & get a bird’s eye view of the migrating herds below.

family SafariSAs long distance travel becomes more affordable and wilderness areas more accessible, families can now enjoy and appreciate the unique natural history & culture of East Africa. When on safari with children it is important to remember that their interest in wildlife may wane from time to time and other enjoyable activities can enhance their holiday pleasure.

Child friendly itineraries are easily organized. This can include lodges & camps with pools, riding, water sports, mountain biking, trekking and a host of adventure activities to keep them happy and occupied.

Apart from Africa’s spectacular wildlife, there’s much more to see and enjoy in the bush. Learn the tracks & signs with a Masai / Samburu warrior and discover how the local tribes sustain their livelihood in terrain that appears difficult for outsiders.

Children over 5 will certainly enjoy the bush and find plenty to do to keep them occupied when not searching for animals. For families of 4 or more, we’d recommend you book exclusive use of your own vehicle.

our own watErSportS advEnturESSouthern Cross Safaris has a partnership in Southern Cross Scuba Ltd on the South Kenya coast with several bases along Diani Beach.

Facilities include Diving, Jet Skiing, Kite Surfing, Whale Shark watching & Wind Surfing, as well as boat trips to remote island locations.

For more information on Southern Cross Scuba please visit: www.southerncrossscuba.com

Choosing your accommodations can be as varied & diverse as the landscapes you might wish to visit.

There’s a plethora of enticing hotels, lodges & tented safari camps from which to choose, from sublime art deco palaces to rustic small bush camps and everything in between. It could be opulent private homesteads, 5 star boutique beach villas to small lodges hand carved from local stone & timber in remote undisturbed areas.

Choices can be narrowed down based on guests’ comfort level requirements, affordability, level of culinary expertise, location & proximity to wildlife areas. Of course certain game reserves & parks are more popular than others.

Other factors such as swimming pool & spa facilities may be the guests’ preferred choice.

Certain establishments may suit families with young children, others perhaps more private & less disturbed for romantic honeymooners.

Collectively the Connoisseur Safaris team has personal experience & detailed updated knowledge on nearly all the East African lodges, camps & hotels. We’re happy to provide unbiased, objective advice helping you to select appropriate accommodations to ensure you have unsurpassed levels of comfort.

hotElS East Africa presents an impressive variable range of hotels to suit every taste. Ranging from elegant boutique style 5-star hotels that cater for the more discerning traveller or businessman to the more affordable, medium range family hotels.

Culinary standards are of a universally high standard - ranging from an eclectic smorgasbord of local fare, through to sumptuous buffet lunches, four course dinners under the stars to speciality nouvelle cuisine

In most hotels the architecture is contemporary, air-conditioned rooms, colour television and room service can be expected. Some City Hotels are steeped in old colonial history, those at the coast lean towards Arabic architecture, incorporating attractively woven coconut palm fronds used to thatch roofs (Makuti) which makes for cool, spacious accommodation on Kenya’s Indian Ocean Coast

gamE lodgES Game lodges are reasonably comfortable permanent dwellings situated in or close to National Parks and Reserves. Built using natural local materials, stone & timber, they are designed to blend harmoniously with the local environment.

Lodge accommodation can vary, some have all modern conveniences - glazed windows, air-conditioning, satellite TV and minibars in every room, others are simple Banda’s surrounding a central dining room and bar area.

The very top end 5* lodges combine the best of everything and could be best described as ‘authentic bush chic’ having luxurious comfort levels & impeccable service.

All lodges have private en-suite facilities, most have swimming pools and some overlook floodlit water holes perfect for nocturnal game viewing. Some have spas & massage treatments available.

A C C O M M O D A T I O Ni n E a s t A f r i c a

our own Safari CampS The Southern Cross Safari Group now owns and operates two of its own small Luxury Safari Camps.

These are Satao Camp in Tsavo East National Park and Satao Elerai located on the private 5,000 acre Elerai Conservancy, at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, right on the edge of the Amboseli National Park.

Both camps are founder members of ‘The Out of Africa Collection’, a portfolio of some of Kenya’s premier safari products. In addition this includes Ol Seki Luxury Tented Camp in the Mara, Almanara Luxury Villas at Diani Beach on Kenya’s stunning South coast, Karen Blixen Camp in the Mara & Severin Safari Camp in Tsavo West. Severin Air Safaris & The Skyship Balloon Company are also members of the collection.

For more information on our camps please visit the following websites: The Out of Africa Collection - www.theoutofafricacollection.comSatao Camp Ltd - www.sataocamp.comSatao Elerai Camp Ltd - www.sataoelerai.com

luxury tEntEd CampS To experience Africa’s nature at close quarters, a few nights under canvas in a luxury tented camp is a must.

Contrary to popular belief, safari camps don’t mean ‘outward bound’, but in fact offer luxurious standards of comfort and exceptional personal service. Large walk in, permanent, spacious insect-proof tents are provided with king size beds, fresh linen, hot and cold running water, flush toilets and ‘campaign’ furniture.

Three course meals are freshly cooked everyday, wines are imported and more often, your hosts themselves, are professional guides conversant with the area & its natural history.

One will also find full dining and bar facilities under a central tent or attractive open buildings. Most safari camps are located within prime wilderness areas and offer an intimacy with the surrounding bush incomparable to any other form of accommodation.

luxury mobilE tEntEd CampSWith professional guides & for the ultimate bush experience, luxury mobile tented camp safaris can be organized for small exclusive groups of families & friends (usually 8-20 pax). These safaris usually take in 7-14 days visiting three or more locations.

Each private tented camp complete with ensuite bathrooms & separate dining tents, is erected in secluded sites chosen for their views, privacy and proximity to wildlife. Your exclusive tented camp, staffed by a highly efficient, dedicated professional crew is moved from one location to the next without you even noticing.

In between guests stay at smaller luxury lodges for a day or two whilst camp is relocated. Comfort, safety and exclusivity are the key ingredients.

privatE homEStayS and privatE gamE SanCtuariES Private ranch homesteads have entirely different characteristics to any other form of safari accommodation.

Accommodation is always within a privately hosted home and very often the owners are your hosts and guides. These range from the upcountry game ranches and farms to elegant beach or lakeside villas. Experiencing conservation practices first hand & interacting with the local communities, allows one to see the wilderness from an entirely different perspective.

CORPORATE & SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The future of wildlife conservation and preservation of local culture is without doubt a combined joint effort between local tourism stakeholders and the local communities whose livelihood is dependent on many of the wilderness areas we visit.

Sustainable eco-tourism is an integral part of our ethos here at Connoisseur Safaris and our commitment to preserving habitats, fauna & flora remains unwavered.

We have established community conservation projects with the Elerai Masai Community at Amboseli and are actively involved in funding education projects for these disadvantaged children.

Our efforts have enabled the building of a new nursery school and continue with financial support for nutritional feeding programmes. Educating local folks about the revenue benefits they can derive from sustainably managed wildlife areas is an ongoing process which will reap long term benefits for all concerned.

In Mombasa we’re proud to support the New Hope Children’s Home, an orphanage for 45 children between 3 & 16 years. Many of them are from homeless, single parent families or those left destitute from parents who’ve passed away from HIV & other illnesses. Their education, well being & nutritional welfare is again supported through our charitable contributions.

Connoisseur Safaris together with the Southern Cross Group is also committed to supporting the East African Wildlife Society and the Rhino Ark project which involves building a fence around the Aberdare Mountain Range ecosystem, preserving wildlife & protecting small holding farmers thus minimising human-wildlife encounters whilst also reducing poaching & illegal logging activities.

Photographic Credits with thanks: Loisaba Lodge, Ol Donyo Wuas, Great Plains, Governor’s Camps, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, The Out Of Africa Collection, Sala’s Camp, Karen Blixen Camp, Severin Air Safaris, Nomads Tanzania, Manda Bay, Greystoke Mahale Mts., Kusini Tented Camp, Satao Elerai Lodge, Satao Tented Camp, Sabuk Lodge, Rusinga Island Lodge, Bush & Beyond, Emin Pasha, Elsa’s Kopje, Sasaab and Saruni Samburu.