The Great Migration

Mass Movement - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-05-08

Great herds of wildebeest and zebra continue to arrive in the central Serengeti, joining the massive herds that are already there grazing with their young. The mega-herd will soon start making its way to the western Serengeti - an area renowned for its vast, open plains. The smell and promise of rain coming from the eastern shores of Lake Victoria is pulling the herds ever onwards on their great annual trek. The tail end of the Migration is still grazing near Gol Kopjes, making its way to the Naabi Hills. They still have quite a distance to cover before joining the mega-herd. The only place where they might possibly cross paths will be at the Mara Triangle when the herds gather once again for the world-renowned Mara River crossing in mid-August. Yesterday, guests at CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps witnessed a great spectacle as thousands of wildebeest made their way towards Meru, leaving behind a huge cloud of dust. The predators have also been putting on a show, hunting for easy meals as the herds pass through. Stay tuned for more!

~ Fonnary Moshi, Camp Manager, Serengeti Under Canvas

As Far as the Eye Can See ~ Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-04-25

What an amazing sight - the central Serengeti is literally flooded with well over a million wildebeest and zebra, who are busy munching on the tall green grass. The herds are gathered near the Seronera airstrip, and are spread out for almost half a kilometre towards the central plains. The rains have now stopped and hundreds of young wildebeest can be seen playing tag and jostling about. Guests at CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps have been able to witness the Great Migration in all its splendour. The predators have also been creating a spectacle, as they hunt for easy meals right on their doorstep. Guests enjoyed watching hungry hyenas who sat, mouths watering, as they tried to scavenge from a lioness kill.

A Spectacular Sight ~ Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-04-17

The mega-herd has moved from the Ndutu region to Naabi Hill gate, and will soon make its way to Seronera, in the heart of the Serengeti. Two of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are now perfectly positioned at the Prins Charles campsite at Seronera, anxiously awaiting the imminent arrival of the Great Migration.

"Seeing a herd yesterday of more than 250 000 animals was the most spectacular part of the Migration that I have seen during the past seven months at Serengeti Under Canvas!"

~ Shaun Strydom, General Manager, Serengeti Under Canvas

Serengeti Action ~ Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-03-28

The Serengeti plains have been receiving plenty of rain, and the herds have spread out from Ndutu all the way to the Olduvai plains. Guests visiting CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps have been spoiled for choice when it comes to game viewing. A 4 m African rock python was spotted, and later that day, they saw a 3 ft long baby python. But it wasn't long before this baby snake was snatched by a secretary bird. There have also been sightings of the mother cheetah and her six healthy cubs. Stay tuned for more next week!

Beasts & Birds - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-03-08

The last couple of weeks have been dry, so the animals began to move north towards the Kusini area. A recent rainfall, however, brought many of the animals back south again. The mega-herd is now happily grazing the Miti Mitatu plains, between Matiti and Kusini. The long rains have just begun in the Ndutu region, resulting in some confused movement among the herds. CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests continue to witness strange and wonderful things on the Serengeti plains: they were lucky to spot a rare Albino roller; and elsewhere, a juvenile pelican was seen scavenging on a fresh wildebeest carcass, along with vultures and marabou storks. And then there's the zonkey ... stay tuned for photos of this interesting find!

Serengeti: Full of Life - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-02-29

The vast Serengeti plains are flourishing and CC Africa's three Serengeti Under Canvas camps have been busy looking after guests and showcasing the Migration right on our doorstep! The mega-herd has now gathered on the Matiti and Maswa plains and they continue to give birth to new wildebeest calves every day. This week's game drives have been exciting, with regular sightings of an aardvark in the Matiti area. The mother cheetah and her six little cubs are healthy and full of energy. And yesterday, guests saw a big male leopard relaxing near Lake Ndutu, keeping a close eye on his two baby wildebeest kills stored high up in the safety of a nearby tree.

An Unfair Advantage - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-02-22

The rains have finally ceased and, as far as the eye can see, the grass is lush, green and beautiful. The wildebeest are now roaming the plains in the thousands, and they continue to drop their young. Sadly, there are hundreds of orphaned wildebeest calves wandering aimlessly in search of their mothers who have been hunted by hungry predators. The predators use this opportunity to cash in on another easy meal. The lone elephant that frequently visits CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps has now appeared for the fourth time in a row! He keeps returning to drink the fresh water, giving guests some fantastic up close and personal sightings.

Predators Aren’t Going Hungry…
2008-02-15

The mega-herd is now scattered along the perimeter of Nabi Hill gate and the border of the Ngorongoro Conservation area. With each day comes new life, but sadly, death is also ever-present. There are wildebeest calves everywhere and guests are enjoying some fantastic Migration sightings. Predators and scavengers continue their lucky streak...

Animals Everywhere! - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2008-02-08

There has not been as much rain in the southern Serengeti as compared to last year, but there has been enough to keep the southern plains suitably lush and green for the migratory herds. The animals continue to move to and fro, as they see and smell the rain falling in different regions. The mega-herd has settled in the Kusini area, near the Moru Kopjes, and the wildebeest continue to drop their young. Guests visiting CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps have witnessed life and death on the Serengeti - from many births to the ever-present carnivore activity.

Dung Beetles Everywhere! - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2008-02-01

Every day hundreds of wildebeest are dropping their young, which is uncharacteristically early for this time of year. Yesterday, guests at CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas watched for an hour as a wildebeest gave birth. The calf was healthy and strong, but wasn't given a fair chance. In the distance, a mother cheetah and her four cubs also witnessed the birth and were watching with hungry eyes. The mother cheetah pounced and captured the newborn wildebeest, taking it back to the cubs to play with and eventually kill. The Serengeti plains are covered with wildebeest dung, which has attracted enormous amounts of dung beetles. What a sight, all the dung beetles busy rolling their balls of dung and burying into the soil!

Serengeti Sightings - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2008-01-25

The Serengeti plains are lush and beautiful and CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests continue to enjoy the excitement of Africa's Great Migration. The mega-herd is expanding daily, with more and more animals completing the trek from Kusini to Ndutu. Thousands of wildebeest are happily grazing the new grass alongside their newborn calves, with the ever-present threat of predators nearby. Yesterday, guests watched as a male lion and two lionesses fed on a wildebeest that they had killed during the night - a mere 300 m from the camp. Other guests were delighted to see a mother cheetah with her six adorable six-week old cubs.

Babies and Bullies - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2008-01-18

The plains are beautiful, lush and green and there are animals everywhere! Massive herds are now travelling from the Kusini area and have spread out across the Miti Mitatu and Matiti plains. There are lots of pregnant female wildebeest dropping their young, a very uncommon sight this time of year. Amidst this excitement, the predators have also been active. A pride of lions has been spending plenty of time along the shore of Lake Masek, preying on victims stuck in the mud ... always an easy meal! Yesterday, guests from CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camp watched as four cheetah cubs caught and played with a scrub hare, only killing it an hour later.

New Year’s Babies? - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve
2008-01-04

The vast herds of zebra and wildebeest saw the New Year in on the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti. Yesterday, a huge herd was spotted near the boundary of the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. There are lots of newborn wildebeest, which is fairly uncommon for this time of year. They are typically born at the end of February, so this has been a nice surprise for our guests. Two of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are currently located in the Ndutu area, where hundreds of animals are grazing around the tents. What a sight! Early next week, all three of our Serengeti Under Canvas camps will be situated in the southern Serengeti, just in time for calving season.

Lush and Green - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve
2007-12-14

The mega-herd is busy grazing the lush grasses of the Western Corridor, and is slowly making its way down the Mbalageti Plain to the Musabi area. There is a massive herd of wildebeest and zebra a mere 30 km from CC Africa's Grumeti River Camp. Another smaller herd has been spotted near the Naabi area, making its way south. A herd of approximately 300 wildebeest and zebra is currently grazing the central plains, with the numbers rising every day. Light rains continue, with some clear skies, and it is green everywhere!

Mega-Herd Movement - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-12-07

Rumours were circling that the mega-herd had finally arrived in the Western Corridor of the Serengeti. One of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guides, Frank, took his guests on a game drive to the Western Corridor to see if the rumours were true. Frank's photograph below speaks for itself! Some wildebeest and zebra remain in the Lobo region, slowly making their way down to the central plains, where one of CC Africa's three Serengeti Under Canvas camps is perfectly positioned for the arrival of the mega-herd. The rains have begun, and we expect the mega-herd to arrive in the central plains in about four days' time. The birdlife has also been spectacular, with guests recently spotting 8 out of the 12 Serengeti Under Canvas Star Birds.

More Movement…
2007-11-30

Apologies for the delay with last week's update - we have been busy moving one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps to its new site, in keeping with the recent migration movements. The animals are still a bit puzzled by the weather patterns, and the herds remain scattered. Many of them are grazing in the southwestern Serengeti plains, some are in the Lobo area, others are near the Bologonja area, and a huge herd (pictured below) is busy making its way from the Ikoma entrance gate to the central part of the park. One of CC Africa's three Serengeti Under Canvas camps is still located in the central plains, where it is dry, but filled with resident game. Last week, guests witnessed thousands of zebras at Makoma Hill, hundreds of elephants, and plenty of curious cats in the area. Never a dull moment in the Serengeti!

Rain Causing Confusion! - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-11-23

The rains have really confused the migratory herds this year! Some herds still remain in the Masai Mara, some are scattered in the Lobo region, while another large herd recently made its way via the Grumeti region to the Nyamuma plains. It is raining in the central Serengeti, and we anticipate many of the wildebeest will make their way down to this region very soon. CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests have witnessed some extraordinary sightings in the last few days: 18 lions feeding on a giraffe carcass, three leopards up a tree, and two cheetahs very close to the camp. Never a dull moment!

Moving South - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-11-16

The northern and western regions of the Serengeti are lush and green, while the central plains remain dry. The herds are scattered in the northwest enjoying the new grass, as they slowly make their way to the central Serengeti. Recent weather patterns have confused the herds somewhat - they would typically move straight from north to south, via the central plains. However, this year, they moved west instead. Two of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are currently located in the game-rich central plains, perfectly positioned for the arrival of the herds - we anticipate the rains should come soon and the herds will make their way south. Guests continue to witness some remarkable sights, including the resident lions, leopards and cheetahs. On Tuesday, a female black rhino and her calf were spotted a mere 2 km from camp. The third Serengeti Under Canvas camp is situated in the Klein's Camp concession, enjoying some great Migration sightings, and will soon move south with the herds to the Ndutu region.

And in the Masai Mara ... the Kichwa plains are still flooded with zebra and wildebeest. What a spectacular sight to land on the Kichwa airstrip, surrounded by the migratory herds! Stay tuned for more next week!

Harsh Realities on the Serengeti Plains - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-11-09

The short rains have started in many parts of the Serengeti, and beautiful new green grass is popping up everywhere. The mega-herd has split into four separate herds - one has settled in the Lobo area, another is in the western part of the Serengeti on the Musabi plains, while the other two unhurried herds are still making their way down from the northern Serengeti near the Ikomo region. If the short rains continue, the herds are expected to make it to the central Serengeti in approximately four to five days. CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests have been on some memorable game drives lately, witnessing two leopards and watching as a pride of lions took down a male buffalo. There have been regular cheetah sightings, and on Wednesday, sadly, three cheetah cubs were killed by the same lion pride.

Seeing Spots - Northern Arm of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-10-19

The herds continue to munch on the lush Mara grass. CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests are witnessing the herds in astounding numbers as they gather closer and closer to the Mara River. Soon they will begin their return journey. Plenty of predators have also been seen in the area, quietly observing and awaiting their next meal. Stay tuned for more Migration movement next week!

A Hungry Eye ~ Northern Arm of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-10-12

The herds are still enjoying the lush new grasses, thanks to the recent rains. The mega-herd has made its way to the Masai Mara, while the tail end of the Great Migration still lingers in the Serengeti plains. Guests from CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas recently witnessed a hungry lioness patiently eyeing the herds that remain in the area. The mega-herd will soon start making its way back - crossing the Mara River back into the Serengeti. Many of the herds are now gathering by the river, preparing for their return journey.

Confusion in the Serengeti
2007-10-05

The rains continue to cause confusion for the migratory herds. The animals keep moving back and forth according to the weather patterns and lush new grass that keeps popping up in different areas. The massive herd of wildebeest and zebra that recently made its way past one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps, has now returned and is currently scattered all around the camp feasting on the new grass. Thousands of animals remain on the other side of the river, slowly making their way to the western side of the river, where they will soon make the journey to the southern short-grass plains. The resident predators (lion, leopard and hyena) are taking advantage of their position. On Wednesday, CC Africa guests watched patiently as a lioness scavenged a baby wildebeest kill from a leopard. The leopard had attempted to drag the kill up a nearby tree, but was unable to do so before the lioness took over. Stay tuned for more action and adventure in the Serengeti...

It’s Raining Again! - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-09-28

Recent rains in the northern Serengeti have produced lush new growth on the plains. Many of the animals on the eastern side of the Mara River are crossing over to the western side to feast on this new grass. Both of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are surrounded by thousands of happy zebra and wildebeest. On the weekend, CC Africa guests witnessed a massive river crossing with most of the herds making it safely to the other side - a few of them drowned due to the high water levels. We suspect the herds will remain in this area for a few days, taking advantage of the green grass, as the central plains are still very dry. Stay tuned for more!

Where to Look?! - Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-09-21

The action continues! Kichwa Tembo guide Sammy set off early last Saturday with his guests in search of the Migration. An impressive herd of 50 000 herbivores was waiting patiently at the river's edge at Serena Crossing. Sammy positioned the vehicle downstream, and two hours later, the zebra led the way, springing into the fast-moving currents, with the wildebeest following closely behind. Soon the crocodiles surfaced and one of them dragged a young wildebeest downstream. Moments later, another crocodile sprung from the water at another young calf, but at the same time, a nearby lioness was busy taking down another wildebeest on the other side of the river! She had been waiting patiently in the bushes for just the right moment. The guests were amazed and weren't sure where to look!! A double treat that they won't soon forget!

Curiosity Killed the Cat Wildebeest - Tanzania and Kenya
2007-09-14

Mara Update: It has been yet another remarkable week in the Mara! At the peak of the Migration, CC Africa guests have been blessed with some truly unforgettable sightings. Guide Sammy and his Kichwa Tembo guests took a picnic lunch down to the river and waited patiently at Termite Hills crossing for the action to begin. An estimated 10 000 herbivores gathered near the river, and two hours later the wildebeest sprung into the water and the guests enjoyed a 30-minute crossing. A crocodile made a kill and the group saw him swim upstream with the wildebeest in its mouth. Minutes later, a young wildebeest decided to brave the crossing (probably looking for its mother). Due to the strong current, the wildebeest realised it wasn't going to make it across, so it decided to go back. The greedy crocodile let go of his previous kill and made his way towards the young wildebeest. As everyone held their breath, the young animal made it safely to the riverbank, but the crocodile continued to pursue. The wildebeest saw the crocodile, and instead of running away, it curiously sniffed the croc, wondering what it was. The crocodile jumped in the air and caught the poor animal by the head and dragged it into the water. A sad, but interesting end to the crossing!

Serengeti Update: It is raining in the Serengeti, and the plains are absolutely beautiful with fresh new grass appearing everywhere. This has caused some confusion, as many animals that had already made the Mara crossing are now coming back to feast on the new grass. The herds are a mere 5 km from one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps. Earlier this week, guests watched as 100 000 animals crossed the river.

Another amazing day in the Mara! - Northern Arm of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-09-07

The Great Migration is at its peak, with thousands of wildebeest and zebra now roaming the Mara. CC Africa guide Sammy and his guests watched for an hour as more than 100 000 wildebeest crossed the Mara River near the Mara Bridge. They noticed an adult wildebeest who managed to get stuck in the river. Nearby, two Rüppell's griffon vultures were busy feeding on a carcass. To everyone's amazement, one of the vultures flew over and landed on the poor live wildebeest, and began pecking at him! Perhaps it was the pain or the shock, but the wildebeest managed to free itself and darted from the water - definitely his lucky day! Just 200 m from the crossing, the guests also witnessed a mother cheetah and three cubs on a young wildebeest kill. They feasted for only five minutes, and as they walked away, vultures swooped in and consumed the kill in minutes. CC Africa guide Joseph and his guests waited patiently for hours, watching two consecutive crossings at Miti Moja, meaning ‘one tree crossing.' A definite highlight for these guests was witnessing two crocodile kills. The excitement continues!

The Crossings Continue - Northern Arm of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-09-06

The northern Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is still scattered with thousands of migratory ungulates, especially at Kogatende. Yesterday, CC Africa Serengeti Under Canvas guests watched a herd of 3 000 animals successfully crossing the Mara River. Today, the herds were not as lucky! On game drive this morning, guests witnessed an astounding 500 000 wildebeest and zebra braving the same crossing, however, six of them became breakfast for the hungry crocodiles and another 15 drowned in the chaotic crossing. The majority of the herds are now on the eastern side of the Mara River, but there are several herds that are still enjoying the lush green grasses on the western side of the river and will need to soon make the fearsome crossing as well. Guests have been enjoying regular sightings of resident lion and cheetah. And yesterday, Didas and Frank witnessed a rare sight on their way back from the airstrip - they saw a lappet-faced vulture killing a ring-necked dove. Vultures are normally scavengers, but this one particular bird seemed tired of leftovers, and went for the fresh food instead! This was a first-time sighting for Didas, and the second time that Frank has witnessed such an exciting sighting. Stay tuned for more!

Both sides of the border… Northern Arm of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-08-24

Game drives have been spectacular - sitting in a game drive vehicle, surrounded by such massive herds of wildebeest, is truly unforgettable. It appears that the small rains have pulled many of the herds back from the Mara, hence game viewing between Klein's Camp and Bologonja, and towards the Serengeti Under Canvas camps near Kogatende has been exciting. On Wednesday, the herds were spread out, covering many valleys.

There is plenty of movement in Kenya as well! On Tuesday, CC Africa guests at Kichwa Tembo were thrilled to see a leopard meandering along the edge of the Mara River toward the end of the Kichwa airstrip. Visiting from Japan, it was their first time seeing a leopard. The Migration is still making its way from South Bridge and the southwest of the Mara Triangle (just 35 km from Kichwa Tembo). On Wednesday, guests watched 1 000 animals gather on Lookout Hill, but in the end, they decided not to make the crossing afterall. Thousands of wildebeest and zebra have moved to the Ngiro region of the Mara, in the direction of the Oloololo Escarpment. Stay tuned for more movements!

Mara Madness! - Northern Arm of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-08-17

The mega-herd has settled in the north, and will remain in the northern ‘arm' of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara for the next few months. Guests can expect excellent sightings at both of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps, as well as at Klein's Camp and Kichwa Tembo.

On Tuesday, a family of six visiting Serengeti Under Canvas, enjoyed a riverside picnic and were pleasantly interrupted by the sound of 200 000 wildebeest crossing the Mara right in front of them! Three wildebeest were caught by the hungry crocs and sadly, five of them broke their feet in the frenzied crossing and drowned.

The Mara is experiencing daily sightings of the Great Migration. After crossing the Sand River, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra are heading straight to the Mara crossing points near Mara South Bridge and especially at the Fig Tree crossing point - crossing from the greater Mara into the Mara Triangle. The herds will spread out across the Mara plains, heading towards the Western Corridor of the Mara Triangle. Guests watched as 300 000 wildebeest and zebra gathered at the Serena crossing point, and then 50 000 of them crossed into the Triangle, with only one casualty - a lone zebra who had already successfully made the crossing, but decided to go back to reunite with its family on the other side. Sadly it ended up in the jaws of a crocodile that had missed this kill the first time around! There were several other crossings along the Mara River, between the Serena crossing and the Mara South Bridge, some 50 km southeast of Bateleur Camp at Kichwa Tembo, and a mere 28 km from Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp.

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-08-13

Excitement is building in the Mara! On Tuesday afternoon, CC Africa guests watched in amazement as the Mara River crossing began - over 10 000 wildebeest and zebra crossed the river at the fig tree crossing near the Mara south bridge, a mere 50 km southeast of Kichwa. The next day brought about two more substantial crossings, with 7 000 animals safely crossing to the other side. So far, there have been no casualties during these Mara crossings.

Practice Makes Perfect - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-08-10

Both of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are perfectly situated just south of the Mara River, keeping pace with the massive herds as they head to the Mara plains in Kenya and Northern Tanzania. Of course there is no one single herd, so fantastic Migration sightings continue from north of the Grumeti River all the way up to Kichwa Tembo in Kenya.

Update from the Masai Mara National Reserve
2007-08-03

Impressive herds of zebra and wildebeest have now crossed the Sand River into the Masai Mara. Last Friday, one of CC Africa's Kichwa Tembo rangers, Timothy, saw an estimated one million animals between Roan Hill and Lookout Hill. The herds are quickly approaching the Mara River, a mere 50 km south of Kichwa Tembo. In a matter of days, guests will start witnessing the Mara River crossings near the south bridge.

White Wildebeest? - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-08-02

CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps have now both made the journey northwards, following directly in the footsteps of the mega-herd. The zebra and wildebeest are everywhere! The massive herds are grazing a mere 15 km from camp and only 26 km from the Mara River - getting closer and closer to the daunting Mara River crossing. And there are plenty of predators lurking around! Yesterday, guests saw four cheetah mothers with three cubs, a pride of eight lions feeding on a wildebeest, and en route back to camp they witnessed a rare sighting: an albino wildebeest - completely white! Avid birdwatchers have been enjoying regular sightings of pennant-winged nightjars at the camp.

At Last! - Masai Mara National Reserve
2007-07-27

The Migration arrived in the Mara on Tuesday. Over 100 000 wildebeest and zebra crossed the Sand River and entered the Masai Mara, and are busy making their way to an area near Roan Hill, approximately 70 km southeast of Kichwa Tembo. Huge zebra herds are crossing the Mara River at the Serena crossing point, a mere 27 km southeast of Kichwa. These herds have come from the greater Mara, into the Mara triangle, and are heading straight to the Mara-Serengeti border to meet their Serengeti counterparts. How exciting! There is so much activity in the Mara ... stay tuned!

Moving into the Mara - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-07-26

Guests in the Western Corridor are watching as the tail end of the Migration heads north. Yesterday morning a massive herd of migratory wildebeest and zebra left the Ndabaka plains, made its way past one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps, and proceeded to cross the Grumeti River. Each day, the herds around the Masira and Kawanga plains are diminishing as the Migration continues its arduous path. The resident game remains and the sightings have been fantastic! Yesterday, CC Africa's guests were on a game drive with Cyst, one of our senior rangers, and they were lucky enough to witness the rare patas monkey! Having worked as a ranger for almost ten years, this was Cyst's first time viewing the species!! The resident lion pride near the camp is also keeping guests entertained - yesterday morning they took down two wildebeest on the spot. On Tuesday, guests watched as a mother cheetah and four sub-adults caught a baby Thomson's gazelle, which (sadly) was still alive as the cubs practiced their killing techniques for 45 minutes before eventually killing the poor gazelle. This weekend, one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps will move north, where the migratory herds have already started to arrive.

Sightings Galore! - Serengeti National Park , Tanzania
2007-07-20

There are still some small herds lingering in the Western Corridor, however most of the herds have now commenced their journey northwards. Yesterday, CC Africa guests witnessed a massive herd of 40 000 animals leaving the Kawanga plains and heading to the Nyasirori plains. What a sight! Soon the Western Corridor will once again be dominated by resident wildebeest and zebra, as the migratory herds slowly move out. In about a week's time, one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps will move to the northern Serengeti where guests will be able to watch the next big drama as the mega-herd crosses the Mara River on their way to Kenya 's Masai Mara National Reserve. Despite this mass exodus, there are still some herds that have not yet made it safely across the Grumeti River . Yesterday morning, guests saw two baby wildebeest taken down by massive Nile crocodiles ... and just on the other side of the river, the Mbega lion pride killed two adult wildebeest that had only just managed to escape the hungry crocodile jaws! And that's not all ... other guests recently witnessed a leopard killing a baby bush buck on their first game drive and managed to capture all of the excitement on video! The Serengeti continues to captivate...

Feeding Frenzy - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-07-12

The Western Corridor is still full of activity, as the mega-herd continues to graze here. Some zebra and wildebeest are in the Lobo area, making their way north, where, in 3 weeks' time, both of the CC Africa Serengeti Under Canvas camps will be located. Plenty of animals are still busy grazing the Grumeti plains, and the tail end of the Migration is finally on its way west. On Wednesday, we spotted thousands of wildebeest and zebra on the Seronera and Musabi plains, heading west. On Tuesday, guests at one of the CC Africa Serengeti Under Canvas camps (a few kilometres from the Grumeti River) were enjoying their lunch, which was interrupted when thousands of wildebeest began crossing the River, right next to the camp! Guests watched in awe for 50 minutes as the lucky wildebeest safely reached the other side, as well as those unlucky ones that ended up in the mouths of the mighty Nile crocodiles. On a game drive along the River, we found 17 crocodiles feeding on 5 different wildebeest that never made it across the River. The birdlife has also been spectacular, with guests spotting 8 out of the 12 CC Africa Under Canvas Star Birds! How fantastic!

Hungry Cats & Crocs… Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-07-06

Thanks to the recent rains that confused the Migration, the mega-herd is still in the Western Corridor, scattered across the plains and the woodlands. For the past week, CC Africa's guests have enjoyed daily sightings of animals attempting the famous Grumeti River crossing, with many hungry crocodiles managing to get their annual meal. Yesterday, some of our guests sat in awe as two crocodiles managed to take down some thirsty wildebeest a mere 2 km from CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas Camp. Sightings continue to delight our guests, cheetah are regularly seen in the area, as well as the pride of Grumeti lions who recently took down three wildebeest at the same time! "Having worked as a guide here for six years, this is the first time I have seen this happen!" said Didas, CC Africa Camp Manager. Guests also witnessed a leopard up in a tree with a baby wildebeest kill. Never a dull moment on the Serengeti!

Lost and Found - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-06-29

The great news is that we have managed to locate the ‘missing' migratory ungulates! They have split into two large herds - one is now making its way to the northern Serengeti, while the other is still happily grazing the plains of the Western Corridor. Thousands of animals are gathered on the Kawanga, Masira and Kirawira plains, however we have not yet witnessed the famous Grumeti river crossing, as the animals are still on the northern part of the river, slowly making their way south. Both of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are perfectly situated near the River, ready for one of the world's most amazing wildlife spectacles. The resident pride of 16 lions has been regularly spotted just a few meters from the camp. Stay tuned for more excitement!

Never a Dull Moment - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-06-22

The mega-herd is making its way back to the Western Corridor. Thousands of wildebeest are grazing the Musabi plains, just 45 km from CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camp. Several herds are located around Seronera, and others have been spotted near Ikoma gate. The game viewing continues to ‘wow' our guests: elephants near the camp, resident lions on day and night drives, five cheetahs near the camp, two serval cats on the hunt, and duelling hippos (a fight that lasted two hours)! We expect the much-anticipated river crossing to commence next week...stay tuned!

The Herds Have Scattered…Momentarily - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-06-15

It was the recent rains that brought the mega-herd to the Western Corridor earlier than anticipated, but now that the rains have begun in the central Serengeti plains, many of the animals are relocating. The remaining herds have not been located yet. Our rangers have been out every day, locating the big herds bit by bit. Despite this mysterious disappearing act, the sightings in the Western Corridor have been truly amazing. On Wednesday, CC Africa's Under Canvas guests watched as three lions made a kill just 300 metres from camp. Yesterday morning, a mere 500 metres from the feasting lions, five cheetahs failed to take down a baby wildebeest. Later on they were spotted with a successful impala kill. And right next to CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camp, guests witnessed as crocodiles feasted on an unsuspecting wildebeest that came down to the Grumeti River for a drink. Stay tuned for an update on the missing wildebeest!

Beauty on the Serengeti - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-06-01

The animals are everywhere ... as far as the eye can see! The mega-herd has gathered in the thousands along the western corridor. The Mbalageti, Masira and Kawanga plains are literally covered with wildebeest, hardly a patch of grass exposed! Both of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps are situated in the western corridor, right in and amongst the action. One of our camps sits right next to the Grumeti River, with many guests watching wide-eyed as crocodiles attack unsuspecting prey. The game drives have been equally impressive, with guests recently witnessing a cheetah take down a baby wildebeest.

"It is really beautiful here. I don't know how to explain it. I have spent six years working in the Grumeti area, and this is the first time I have seen the Grumeti River with so much water at this time of year, so it's a real crossing! On our last day of setting up the camp, our attention was caught by a noise from the river ... it was a male wildebeest calling as both of his legs were trapped in the mouth of a crocodile." ~ Didas Godfrey, Camp Manager, CC Africa Serengeti Under Canvas ~

Grumeti Gathering - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-05-25

The mega-herd is now gathering on the southern side of the Grumeti River. One of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps is superbly situated 20 km from Grumeti River Camp, allowing guests some truly remarkable sightings. Some animals have been attempting to cross the river, and already the crocodiles have managed to feast on some unlucky wildebeest. Game drives have been exciting, with full-bellied crocodiles sunbathing on the river's edge, carnivores feasting, and vultures and hyenas scavenging.

Wildebeest Crossing - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-05-18

The westward march continues. The mega-herd is now happily grazing the plains approximately 35 km from Grumeti River Camp and 15 km from Mbalageti, where one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps will be situated this coming weekend. The countless animals have now taken over the entire Musabi and Mbalageti plains, blissfully munching the lush green grasses. On Wednesday, guests arriving at Seronera were stopped by herds of wildebeest and zebra that were crossing the road and blocking their way back to Camp! They waited as animals in the thousands passed by, and even witnessed a kill while they waited! Two young male lions feasted on a baby wildebeest, and greedily went in for another successful kill as the herds passed by.

Walking West - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-05-11

The Migration is still on the move! After a brief stop in the central Serengeti, the mega-herd is now well on its way to the woodlands of the western corridor where the recent rains have encouraged lush vegetation. Each day, CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests are witnessing this mass exodus of animals moving past the camp and heading west. On Wednesday, one particular guest was relaxing in the lounge area and quietly watched as a long continuous line of wildebeest and zebra took almost three hours to pass by! The majority of the herds are now grazing the plains between Hembe and Musabi, in preparation for the gruelling Grumeti River crossing. Both of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps will soon be located in the western corridor, near the Grumeti River where guests might witness firsthand as the giant Nile crocodiles fight for their annual meal.

Wildlife Abounds - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-05-04

The animals are EVERYWHERE!! Guests at one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps were amazed to see nearly half a million wildebeest literally just outside of their tents. What a beautiful sight! The herds have finally left the Ndutu region, and are now peacefully grazing the plains between Naabi Hill and just south of Seronera. Guests at our other Serengeti Under Canvas camp (situated at Emakati on the Rongai Hills) have been hearing the glorious grunting sounds of another several hundred thousand wildebeest grazing past their tents at night! And the sightings have been incredible, as the predators take advantage of the huge herds all around them. CC Africa guests recently witnessed a pride of three lionesses taking down three wildebeest at the waterhole, while other guests were speechless as they watched a leopard, high up in an acacia tree, leap down and kill a wildebeest calf and proudly drag it back up the tree.

"For the nine years I have been working in the Serengeti, I have never seen such a big Migration herd."

~ Didas Godfrey, Camp Manager, Serengeti Under Canvas (Camp One) ~

The Migration is on the Move - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-04-20

The herds have dropped their young and are splitting off into several groups as they slowly move away from the Ndutu area. Some herds are still mingling near Ndutu, some remain in the Kusini area, others are heading northwest into Maswa Game Reserve, and most excitingly, the large herds are currently a mere 10 km from one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps! The other Serengeti Under Canvas camp is still situated at Ndutu, where the Migration sightings remain constant. During the next three weeks, as the herds move out, this camp will also be relocated. Recent sightings by CC Africa guests include several lion, leopard, the elusive black rhino (on several occasions in the Moru area) and spectacular sightings of the Migration itself. CC Africa's Klein's Under Canvas camp, although currently closed, is now fully staffed and the team is eagerly preparing for its June opening. Stay tuned!

The Great Northwards Trek - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-04-18

The Migration has commenced its long walk northwards and is now grazing the plains between Lake Ndutu and Seronera. To pre-empt this movement, one of CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas camps is now positioned at Elmakati (between Lake Ndutu and Seronera) where game viewing has been spectacular (although the arrival of the large herds is still a few days away). The other two camps are situated in the Ndutu area. Both sites are perfectly positioned, each offering different perspectives of the Great Migration.

A Life Lesson - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-03-30

The mega-herd continues to whirl in ever larger circles across the southern plains, in preparation for the journey to the Central Serengeti, and ultimately to the Mara region. CC Africa's Serengeti Under Canvas guests are enjoying spectacular and unforgettable Serengeti sightings.

"What a highlight - we saw the Migration with the huge herds of bearded wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. It was one of those days that I will remember for years to come. A nice surprise included a sighting of caracal - a very rare sighting indeed. Most of all, the lesson that I have learned today is that the Migration is a comparison to the lives we lead. We are born free, roaming this earth and with a little luck we get to repeat our natural cycle a couple of times. Traps and threats along the way make us all the wiser and with a little luck we survive another day."

CC Africa Under Canvas Guest Book

Waiting Game - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-03-26

The mega-herd appears to have completed its annual miracle of restocking its multitude with innumerable calves, and is currently grazing in the southern Serengeti. The arduous northward trek is set to commence any day now. We can only guess when this movement will officially begin; however, due to the lush grass that is still available, we expect the great trek to begin in earnest during the next two weeks. Some large herds have already been sighted north of Naabi Hill, yet paradoxically, other large herds are still being sighted south of Kusini. CC Africa's Under Canvas guests continue to delight in thrilling game drives with daily leopard sightings, including one outside of tent #5 at 6 am one morning! Cheetah and lion are now almost commonplace, and all of the plains species abound in hundreds to thousands. After last week's spectacular 5-kill day, CC Africa ranger Frank Christopher managed to beat this sighting with a spectacular 7-kill drive!

Carnage on the Serengeti
2007-03-16

With such incredible recent sightings on the Serengeti, it would seem difficult to report on anything that could surpass these magnificent scenes ... but four days ago CC Africa's guests experienced THE game drive of game drives! They encountered a bat-eared fox, elephant, jackal, 10 000 zebra, 20 000 wildebeest, and a hungry cheetah. After watching the cheetah stalk, then flop down in the grass, anticipation was building. The cheetah eventually took off on a high-speed chase. The kill was quick and clinical. The wildebeest calf was brought down and instantly suffocated, creating mixed emotions for our guests: the excitement of seeing what most visitors to the bush yearn for - the kill; and the sadness at witnessing such a gruesome sight. On an afternoon drive that very same day, the same guests encountered a pride of lions: two males, three females, and a cluster of cubs. The pride watched as a hapless herd of wildebeest approached, on their way to water. The lions thought it is Christmas! A chase ensued, until the first wildebeest was quickly brought down. They had tasted blood and the opportunity was simply too good to miss - over the next two hours, our guests waited and watched as the pride brought down another three wildebeest and fed their not-so-hungry cubs. An amazing five kills in one day!

Life and Death on the Serengeti
2007-03-14

Having spent the last six weeks on the short grass plains, the herds were spread out from Kusini in the south of Serengeti National Park all the way to Gol Kopjes in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The animals now appear to be congregating in the Ndutu area, before commencing their arduous trek to the Mara River, where their next challenge awaits: the legendary river crossing. For now, it is a time of plenty. The herds are replenishing themselves with the nutrient-rich grasses on the southern plains, they are replenishing their numbers to the tune of 400 000 newborn calves (every second animal seems to be a newborn wildebeest!), and they continue to enjoy Eden while they can. The Migration is expected to remain in the south for the next month, before drifting off to Moru Koppies, the Rongai Hills and Seronera. And the cats are fat! Sightings have included: a coalition of cheetah brothers taking down an adult wildebeest; hyenas and marabou stork enjoying the spoils of countless placentas; and even the elusive caracal has been seen on several occasions in the Ndutu woodlands. The noise of the herds as they drift into the woodlands can be heard at CC Africa's Under Canvas camps - a wonderful cacophony of grunts and groans from the wildebeest and an uncoordinated orchestra of whistling and whooping from the countless zebra. The roars of lion and the cackles of hyena accompany our guests as they drift off to sleep, dreaming of another day of life and death on the Serengeti.

Tanzania Under Canvas
2007-03-05

Flying over the northern highlands of Tanzania, looking down at the small black dots, it is clear that the rains have blessed this landscape with
greenery reminiscent of the emerald isle - an undulating sea of beauty. As the aircraft begins its descent, the hills are no more - we are over the short grass plains flying towards a lake surrounded by a mass of trees. The black dots increase in number and grey dots are added to the mosaic. Most passengers are unaware of the dots - they have just begun their safari and their eyes are as yet untrained to identify the scene below. Their gripping knuckles become white as the pilot sweeps over the airstrip at full speed to encourage the dots to give the aircraft some space to land on this patch of Eden. The forest surrounds us we are flying so low. Suddenly the aircraft is on the ground - mud splatters up from the rain sodden ground. We have landed at Lake Ndutu.

The familiar green vehicle with the equally familiar smiling khaki clad ranger hails us as we eagerly alight from the 'plane - 'Karibu! Welcome to paradise. Chai? Kahawa?' Tea for me please! The other guests appreciate the strong Ngorongoro coffee to calm their nerves. Biscuits, a cigarette. All is calm now; the pilot and his screaming leviathon have left us to collect stranded passengers on the banks of the Grumeti River. We all enjoy the silence. Ivan the ranger introduces himself and there is a perceptible air of assurance that our daily worries are left behind. Ivan will take care of us. As we drive off, the inevitable question is asked.. 'Ivan, where is the migration?' Before Ivan answers, there is a blinding realization... the black dots - wildebeest... the grey dots - zebra!

Imagine 20 large football stadiums full of people, but swap the people for Gnu, Zebra, Eland and Gazelles. Imagine all those dots on a very, very large field of green.

Ivan informs us that tomorrow we will be out all day joining the dots.

I can't wait for tomorrow!

Bruce Hatton
General Manager
Tanzania Under Canvas

Home Is Where the Heart Is - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2007-02-26

The mega-herds have clearly found a spot to call home! Thousands of wildebeest and zebra continue to mingle and graze the short grass plains. Although relaxed, the rains persist ... but the animals do not seem to mind, as the plains are deliciously lush and verdant. Calving continues, and our guests are enjoying daily sightings of the Migration, which is currently a mere 30 km from CC Africa's two Serengeti Under Canvas camps (in the Lake Ndutu region). Guests at have also witnessed some exciting big cat sightings, from lion and cheetah to the elusive leopard!

Singing in the Rain ... Again!
2007-02-20

Just when we thought the heavy rains were coming to an end, they have made a surprising full-fledged return. The occasional late afternoon showers experienced last week have turned into biblical night-long deluges! At times, flights have been rerouted to Seronera airstrip, as Ndutu airstrip has been temporarily waterlogged. The rains have proved to be an exciting adventure for our amazing and spirited team who has worked hard to keep our guests dry, always with a warm, Tanzanian smile! Such is life on the mighty Serengeti plains! CC Africa's two Serengeti Under Canvas camps remain in the Lake Ndutu area, within close range of the mega-herds as they continue to graze the short grass. The wildebeest, zebras, elephants and newly ensconced hippos have embraced the rains - and the resultant long, lush grass. Oh yes, the PADI dive school from Mnemba has relocated to Ndutu, too.

Seeing Spots - Serengeti National Park, Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
2007-01-11

Apologies for the delay with this update. Once again, we were in the process of moving CC Africa's luxurious semi-permanent Serengeti Under Canvas camps from Seronera to the Ndutu area. This movement is in line with current Migration patterns. There are thousands of animals now grazing on new grass around Miti Mitatu and the Kusini plains. The game drives continue to wow our guests, not only with the spectacular Serengeti scenery, but with exciting sightings too. A leopard was recently seen very close to camp feeding on a baby wildebeest. Guests on a game drive with one of our senior rangers, Cyst, were lucky enough to witness 18 different cheetahs on the same drive ... a new record!

Masai Mara (Kichwa Tembo)
2006-09-20

For the last week we have been experiencing fantastic views of the wildebeest migration and river crossings at the Mara river near Kichwa Tembo Airstrip. The greatest of all migration was probably on the 17th September 2006 where a massive number of animals(estimated to be more than 500,000 animals) crossed for more than seven hours. Surprisingly, there were no crocodiles at the crossing but afterwards there were more than two hundred carcasses floating on the river that had died due to stampedes and drowning.

Some crossed at the wrong crossing point where there was no exit and due to the confusion most of them died due to drowning. The crossing has continued up to now, and as I write this, there might be some crossing at the moment.

Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp - Ranger Team

Serengeti (Klein's Camp)
2006-09-12

Even though the bulk of the migration is in the Masai Mara, we still have some nice herds of a few thousand in the valley. Yesterday afternoon we were able see them from the Kleins Camp bar. Not to mention that for the last two mornings we have had leopard sightings on the way to the airstrip.

Alistair Kilpin
Kleins Camp Manager

Masai Mara (Kichwa Tembo)
2006-08-31

The great annual migration of the herbivores [wildebeest, zebra, eland and Thompson’s Gazelle] has just arrived back from Serengeti to the Mara. We recently witnessed approximately over 20,000 wildebeests cross the Mara River between Mara Serena lodge and Mara south bridge and out of the above mentioned number only one was taken by the hungry, patient crocodiles.

At least nearly 20,000 migrants are at the Mara triangle and the huge mass are still coming soon, to enjoy their honeymoon bread[red oat grass] before they head back to the Serengeti later in the year. More interesting crossing details will be aired to anyone who loves the wildebeest kingdom.

On 20/07/06 along the Mawemawe crossing near Serena about 1,000 wildebeest and zebras were crossing the river before they were cut off by a huge crocodile that snatched one foal of a zebra cutting and tearing the stomach and the intestines were out. The helpless zebra managed to escape but fifty meters away from the river he died. The crocs came out and started eating it, suddenly the hyenas[opportunistic group] took the kill from the crocs chasing them in to the river. Within five minutes they had finished everything leaving only bare bones and nothing for the cleaning squad like the vultures, jackals and the rest.

Other interesting sightings along Kichwa Tembo include the lonely female cheetah with her five cubs aged four months successfully enjoying plenty of prey like impalas and tommy along Kichwa plains. Also to be found are the Kichwa pride of two lioness and five cubs aged eight months. This becomes a traditional welcome to guests who come to Kichwa and Bateleur camp.

CC Africa's Kichwa Tembo

Masai Mara (Kichwa Tembo)
2006-08-29

Today we were taking a game drive along the swamp area when we came across a huge herd of wildebeest on the move. We assumed they were heading towards the water. We decided to follow them and our assumptions were confirmed when they came across a swamp area with some water at the centre. They stopped there for a few minutes and then started walking, heading towards the bigger Mara River probably because there was a lot of mud. As they left one of them decided to go towards the water it got stuck in the mud.

All of a sudden we saw a young lion probably 2yrs old going towards the beast hoping to utilize the God given chance, it too had difficulties but it was determined. As it got very near, the wildebeest turned unexpectedly and hit the lion with its horns which sent it sprawling - a distance the lion decided that was an unworthy opponent and went away running. The wildebeest somehow managed to get out of the mud and ran towards the others at top speed.

Benedict Kalului with Ray Top Group
CC Africa's Kichwa Tembo

Masai Mara (Kichwa Tembo)
2006-07-19

Finally the zebras and wildebeests from both the loita hills and the Serengeti have entered the Masai Mara. An amazing view of those from the loita hills crossing the Mara river can be seen near Kichwa Tembo camp and those from Serengeti at Mara bridge, the southern part of the Masai Mara. Watch the amazing action of the animals manoeuvering the dangerous rivers full of crocodiles and strong currents.


It's been observed for the past one day that crocodiles are managing to catch three wildebeest at Mara Bridge crossing, two at Serena crossing and another two at Kichwa crossing.

The duration of the crossing goes up to one hour with thousands of wildebeests and zebras. Other animals benefiting from the migration are the predators such as lions, hyenas, leopards and cheetahs which are now visible and hunting even during the day.

Regards,
Sammy
Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

Masai Mara (Kichwa Tembo)
2006-07-17

This morning (17th July 2006) at Kichwa Tembo crossing we witnessed thousands and thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing. The duration of the crossing took about 45 minutes with the unsuccessful attempts of crocodiles trying to get some meal.

Regards,

Sammy Komu and Kichwa Tembo Rangers team.
CC Africa's Kichwa Tembo

Serengeti (Klein's Camp)
2006-06-07

It is very unusual to have the migration around Klein's at this time of the year, but as everybody knows you cannot really predict the exact movement of the herds.

According to my findings from people who've been here for long time, it has been around ten years since they have seen the herds around this area at this time of the year.

We have got huge herds approximated at around 200,000 animals or more 5 days away from Klein's concession. The herds are in the Mbuzi Mawe area and lots already around Lobo area some 30km away from Klein's camp.

Kind regards,

John Ole Parmwat
Klein's Camp