NGORONGORO CRATER HOLIDAYS

I WANT TO CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Situated in Tanzania and close to the equator, Mount Kilimanjaro is the world's highest freestanding mountain and also Africa's highest peak, at 5,985m. Climbing Kilimanjaro is justifiably considered a once in a lifetime experience. The lower slopes are dense with forest, it is surrounded by vast expanses of savannah, the peak is ice-capped, and the views from the top are breathtaking.

There are several routes to choose from, with different lengths and difficulties, and accommodation options, so that you can do the climb that's right for you. All of our Kilimanjaro climbs are operated on a private basis and are led by an experienced guide and his team, as well as all the necessary permits, equipment, food and transport that you need.

The Kilimanjaro climb is undoubtedly one of the hardest challenges you will attempt, but it's worth it.

We would recommend some acclimatisation time, giving you the best possible chance of reaching the summit, and it's worth noting that a very high percentage of climbers make it to the top. There is no mountaineering experience necessary but of course you need to be in very good physical condition.

I WANT TO VISIT A MASAI VILLAGE

A fascinating and authentic insight into the culture and lifestyle of the Masai people in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Their traditions and beliefs will give you a genuine glimpse into the Africa of yesterday, but also the Africa of today and tomorrow. The Masai are traditionally semi-nomadic people with distinctive customs and dress, as well as a reputation for being fearsome warriors.

Experience how the Masai people live from day-to-day in the African bush with animals grazing and Lions roaring outside their homes. The majority of Masai still practice their traditional way of life and live as pastoralists with cattle at the centre of their culture and social life. They are very proud to welcome guests and share their story.

The traditional Masai village is called a Manyatta and consists of a number of small cow dung made huts with thatched roofs. The huts are placed in a circle with livestock in the middle and a thick thorny fence for protection against the nightly predators.

You may well also experience the local schools, the bustling markets, the daily milking of the cows, preparation of traditional Masai food and the making of traditional jewelry and beadwork, all with a Masai guide. We ensure (in fact insist) that these visits are undertaken in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.

Kitela Lodge is a small, exclusive lodge situated on top of a valley overlooking a coffee plantation, the Eastern wall of the Ngorongoro crater and a beautiful waterfall. It consists of 20 spacious suites in cottages built in the style of an old colonial farm offering guests a relaxing, quiet atmosphere surrounded by beautiful gardens. Includes pool and African SPA. Meals are normally served in the main building and sometimes a buffet lunch is set-up around the pool. Guests have an ample choice of food prepared with home produced vegetables and served in buffets. Activities include: Trekking in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area - guided walks in one of the most attractive areas of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area; Walk with a guide from the farm showing how the farm runs, visiting vegetable garden, farm animals; Masai Culture Walk - walk with a guide round the small villages, visiting the brick makers and coffee farms.

I WANT TO SEE THE GREAT MIGRATION

The annual migration in East Africa is a safari 'must see' and one of the most spectacular wilderness shows on earth. Millions of Wildebeest and Zebra migrate on a never-ending 1800 mile journey between Tanzania (the Serengeti) and Kenya (the Masai Mara), on a pilgrimage in constant pursuit of greener grasses for grazing.

Close on their tails, Lion, Hyena, Leopard and Cheetah are all looking for an opportunity to take their prey. When these huge herds have to cross rivers scores of crocodile lie in wait to take their share of the bounty. Not all make it to the other side and most often the young and weak become the predators prey. The river crossings are spectacular, but simply witnessing thousands of animals on the plains, with the attendant predators, is a sight in itself – and a year round event. The migration is relatively predictable, but dependent on weather conditions.

JANUARY - MARCH
The southern Serengeti plains and the Ngorongoro Conservation area in northern Tanzania are home to giant herds of wildebeest, zebra and other antelope (calving season).

APRIL - JUNE
The rainy season is April to May, and the herds migrate west and north to the grassier plains and woodland of the Serengeti’s western corridor.

JULY - SEPTEMBER
The herds reach the Grumeti River, the first of the dramatic river crossings. Before they get to the lush plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya, they have to make another crossing, across the Mara River.

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
The Mara plains teem with large herds.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER
The herds begin their long trek back down to the Serengeti plains.

This lodge is on the rim of the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's best-known wildlife arenas and has been designed to blend into the landscape - it is largely invisible from the crater floor 600 metres below. All rooms enjoy uninterrupted views over the crater, each with its own balcony, and the dining and bar area also overlook the crater below, with a broad viewing terrace. Location, location, location!