travel tips for east africa

When visiting reserves like Shimba Hills or other areas in East Africa, it's important to be mindful of your wardrobe to avoid attracting tsetse flies. These insects, known for their painful bites and ability to transmit diseases like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), are particularly attracted to dark colors, especially blue and black. Studies show that wearing neutral colors such as khaki, beige, or other earth tones can significantly reduce the chances of being bitten during the day when tsetse flies are active.

Interestingly, tsetse traps used to control their population often incorporate dark colors like blue because they draw the flies in, which is a testament to their attraction to these shades. To minimize discomfort and potential health risks, it's advisable to avoid dark-colored clothing and vehicles during safaris, especially in daylight hours.

Additionally, having antihistamine cream or tablets handy is a good idea if you do get bitten. And remember, tsetse flies are less of a concern after sunset, so the focus on clothing colors applies mainly during daytime activities.

Sources: American Council on Science and Health, and Beyond, Thomson Safaris

Top Tourist Attraction Sites in Kenya

 Maasai Mara National Reserve 

Known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River

The Wildebeest Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet, often referred to as the "Great Migration." It takes place annually between the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, covering a cycle of over 1,800 miles.

Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras, gazelles, and other herbivores, move in search of greener pastures. The migration is driven by rainfall patterns and the need for fresh grazing lands.This migration generally occurs between July and October, with the wildebeest crossing the Mara River into the Maasai Mara. This is the most thrilling part of the migration, as the animals face the dangerous river crossing, where they must evade hungry crocodiles and other predators.

 The crossing is the most iconic moment of the migration. As the wildebeest gather at the riverbanks, the anticipation builds before they plunge into the water. It's a dramatic scene filled with tension, as predators like crocodiles and big cats wait to strike.Their migration attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, making it a prime time for game viewing. These predators rely on the migration for survival, resulting in intense hunting scenes.

 By October, the herds begin their journey back to the Serengeti as the rains start to fall there. The migration is a continuous cycle of movement, driven by the changing seasons and the availability of food and water.

The peak of the migration in the Maasai Mara is between late July and early September. However, the timing can vary slightly each year based on weather conditions.

Maasai Mara offers an unforgettable safari experience. It is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) and offers breathtaking savannah landscapes.

Amboseli National Park

With over 400 bird species, Amboseli is a paradise for bird watchers. Some notable birds include the African fish eagle, pelicans, herons, and flamingos also Amboseli’s open plains, coupled with the towering presence of Mount Kilimanjaro, make it an excellent destination for wildlife and landscape photography as the interactions between animals and the scenic beauty provide countless photo opportunities

Some parts of Amboseli offer guided walking safaris, where you can explore the park on foot with a ranger. This provides a closer and more intimate experience with nature.Observation Hill offers a panoramic view of the park, including the swamps where elephants and other animals congregate. It’s a great spot for sunset views and bird watching.Amboseli’s swamps, fed by underground water from Kilimanjaro, attract a variety of wildlife. Watching elephants and hippos wading through the water is a common sight.

Diani Beach

Located along the Indian Ocean, Diani Beach is known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. It is perfect for relaxation, water sports, and exploring the coral reefs. Nearby attractions include Shimba Hills National Reserve and Colobus Conservation. Diani’s soft white sand and clear waters are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach strolls. The warm Indian Ocean waters make it perfect for water-based activities like paddleboarding and beach volleyball.

Water Sports: 

Diani is a hub for various water sports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and jet skiing. You can also dive into the coral reefs to explore marine life like tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Scuba Diving:

 The nearby coral reefs are home to diverse marine species, making Diani a top spot for scuba diving. Dive centers in the area offer courses for beginners and advanced divers.

Shimba Hills National Reserve: 

Just a short drive from Diani Beach, this reserve is home to rare wildlife, including the endangered Sable Antelope, elephants, and leopards. It’s a great option for a half-day safari.

Colobus Conservation: 

Visit the Colobus Conservation to learn about efforts to protect the rare and endangered Angolan colobus monkeys. The sanctuary promotes conservation and offers educational tours for visitors.

Dhow Sailing and Sunset Cruises:

 Traditional dhow boats offer sunset cruises along the coastline, providing a relaxing experience as you enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the setting sun.

Nightlife and Restaurants: Diani has a vibrant nightlife scene, with beach bars, lounges, and restaurants offering fresh seafood and a variety of international cuisines. You can enjoy a meal while overlooking the ocean or experience beach parties at night.

Marine Excursions: Boat tours  nearby Wasini Island or Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park provide opportunities to snorkel, swim with dolphins, and explore more of Kenya’s coastal treasures.

The best time to visit Diani Beach is during the dry season, between December and March or July to October, when the weather is sunny and perfect for beach activities