Kenya’s tourism sector is on the road to solid recovery

Kenya’s tourism sector is on the road to solid recovery with an impressive record high arrivals in the first half of 2011.

Statistics released by Kenya’s ministry of Tourism indicate that 549,083 tourists visited Kenya in the first six months of 2011, surpassing the previous high hit in 2010 by 13.6 percent.

Visitors from Britain led the way accounting for 14.3 percent of arrivals, followed by the United States on 9.3 percent and then Italy, Germany and India.

The impressive results also come days after former Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph resigned as Kenya Tourist Board chairman only eight months into the job citing a World Bank engagement.The tourism industry is projecting to earn Sh81 billion this year on the back of an expected increase in tourist arrivals helped by the ongoingrecovery of key source markets, players said.

Last year, the tourism sector fetched the country earnings of Sh73.7 billion but fell far below the Sh100 billion target which players said was exaggerated.

While releasing last year results, Tourism minister Najib Balala said the industry had adjusted its targets to reflect some of the challenges in the international market.

“Tourist projections also depend on other factors including security. The sector also suffered from the unprecedented European ash cloud that denied the country new arrivals,” said KTB managing director, Mr Muriithi Ndegwa in a previous Interview with Business Daily

Nature Expeditions Africa Ltd: Kenya burns ivory to end poaching

Nature Expeditions Africa Ltd: Kenya burns ivory to end poaching: "Kenya burns ivory in fight against poachers This is the third time that confiscated ivory has been burnt in Africa Continue reading the main..."

Kenya burns ivory to end poaching

Continue reading the main story

Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki has set on fire nearly five tonnes of ivory worth $16m (£9.9m) to curb poaching.

Mr Kibaki said the burning - only the third of its kind in Africa - showed the continent's determination to fight "criminal networks".

The ivory was seized in Singapore and sent to Kenya where DNA tests showed it came from Malawi and Tanzania.

The countries agreed earlier this year to jointly stop the trade, which conservationists say is increasing.

At a ceremony in the Munyani region of eastern Kenya, Mr Kibaki used a long stick with a ball of fuel-doused cloth at the end to light the tall pyre of tusks.

'Clear message'

Some 335 tusks and more than 40,000 ivory carvings went up in smoke.

"We cannot afford to sit back and allow criminal networks to destroy our common future," Mr Kibaki said.

"Through the burning of contraband ivory, therefore, we are sending a clear message to poachers and illegal traders in wildlife about our collective resolve to fight this crime in our region and beyond."

The burning was the first involving the three countries, after Singapore agreed to return the stockpile nearly 10 years after it was seized.The destruction of the ivory stockpile followed an agreement in May by Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya to strengthen law enforcement efforts to end wildlife smuggling.

In 1989, Kenya burnt its own stockpile of seized ivory, while Zambia torched tusks three years later.

Africa has nearly 500,000 elephants, but the World Wildlife Federation (WWF) says they are increasingly threatened.

"We share the view of most experts that illegal or poorly regulated domestic ivory markets in some countries - Thailand, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, in particular - are the main drivers of this increased elephant poaching," the WWF says.

Commercial trade in ivory has been banned since 1989 under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites).

This is the third time that confiscated ivory has been burnt in Africa

Nature Expeditions Africa Ltd: The Great Wildebeest Migration is on.(July- Oct)

Nature Expeditions Africa Ltd: The Great Wildebeest Migration is on.(July- Oct): "The spectacular great migration of the Wildebeest is on. The wildebeest migration - it's ultimately one of the most popular t..."

The Great Wildebeest Migration is on.(July- Oct)

The spectacular great migration of the Wildebeest is on.

The wildebeest migration - it's ultimately one of the most popular times to go on an African safari tour. The event is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. During the migration, about 1.2 to 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra and several species of antelope, make an annual, circular tour between the Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya, in search of greener pastures.

Reports from Masai Mara indicate that the wildebeest migration from Serengeti in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya has begun.

On the evening of Monday 6th of June 2011, the first batch of a few wildebeest, accompanied by a huge herd of zebra (about 2000 zebra) arrived. They made their triumphant entrance huffing and snorting. The arrival of the zebra is an indication that the wildebeest will be arriving soon. In fact, going by his indication, the spectacular river crossing in the Mara may take place as soon as by next week (by June 15 2011). At the moment, there are large numbers of zebra crossing at the Sand Rivers.

What is certain is that the coming few weeks are going to be exciting in terms of the wildebeest migration.

UNESCO elevates Rift Valley Lakes into world's heritage sites.

PARIS, Jun 28 - The Great Rift Valley’s Lakes System has now joined the coveted World Heritage list joining two other sites that has been recognised worldwide as natural beauty spot. Lakes Elmentaita, Nakuru and Bogoria will now join Lamu Old Town and Lake Turkana National Parks on the world map.

This elevates the lakes to status of the world tourist destinations.It is wonderful to see these spectacular lakes sites in Kenya and their rich birds life, achieving recognition as natural site of the highest global importance.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has also recommended the inscription of the Ningaloo Coast in Australia and the Ogasawara Islands in Japan on the World Heritage List.

IUCN, the independent advisory body on nature to UNESCO, presented the findings of its comprehensive evaluations of the natural values of 13 nominated sites to the World Heritage Committee. With the new additions announced on Sunday at the meeting in Paris, the number of natural and mixed sites is now 210.

Recommended for inscription by IUCN for its outstanding beauty and biodiversity, the Kenya Lakes System consists of three lakes: Lake Elementaita, Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria, all of which lie in basins on the floor of the Great Rift Valley which transects Kenya North-South.

The three lakes are an integral part of one the largest bird migratory routes in the world sustaining 75 percent of the global population of the lesser flamingo, supporting one of the major breeding colonies of the great white pelicans and providing a vital wintering ground for over 100 species of migratory birds.

“It is wonderful to see these spectacular lake sites in Kenya, and their rich bird life, achieving recognition as natural sites of the highest global importance,” says Tim Badman, Director of IUCN’s World Heritage Programme.

“We especially welcome this inscription as the first natural World Heritage Site listed in Africa since 2007.”

The Ningaloo Reef on the north-western coast of Australia is home to the largest fish in the world, the Whale Shark, as well as to more than 500 species of tropical fish and 220 species of coral. The rich marine life includes soft and hard corals, manta rays, sea snakes, whales, turtles, dungeons and sharks. Australia is the country with the largest number of natural World Heritage Sites in the world.

“The Ningaloo Coast is a unique place with outstanding natural beauty and biological diversity, which plays an important role in the protection of marine species,” says Tim Badman, Director of IUCN’s World Heritage Programme. “The Coast tells an extraordinary story of biological isolation, climate change, the movement of continents and environmental conservation.”

Located in the western Pacific Ocean roughly 1,000 km south of the main Japanese Archipelago, the Ogasawara Islands are an outstanding example of ongoing evolutionary and biological processes in oceanic island ecosystems. The newly inscribed site includes more than 30 islands and marine areas, clustered within three island groups and is home to over 140 endemic plants and animals.

“The remoteness of the Ogasawara Islands has allowed animals and plants to evolve practically undisturbed, making it a living evolutionary laboratory,” says Peter Shadie, Deputy Head of IUCN’s Delegation. “The Ogasawara Islands tell a unique story of how life on earth has and continues to evolve with new species being regularly discovered.”

Lake Turkana National Parks was put on the list in 1997. It is described as Africa's most saline large lake and is believed to be an excellent laboratory for the study of plant and animal communities.

They are a breeding ground for the Nile crocodile, hippopotamus and several venomous snakes. The Koobi Fora deposits are rich in mammalian, molluscan and other fossil remains.

The Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement. It is built in coral stone and mangrove timber, featuring inner courtyards, verandas and elaborate wooden doors

JAMBO!!KARIBU AFRICA.

JAMBO!!KARIBU AFRICA.

For all your travel needs to Eastern Africa, Nature Expeditions Africa is here for you.

Are looking for a safari package to Eastern Africa.

You can visit www.kenya-safaris-online.com to check the latest special offers!

About Us
Why Travel with Nature Expeditions?
NATURE EXPEDITIONS AFRICA LTD is an owner-managed company providing tours and travel related services in East Africa. The company was started with the aim of providing tours & safaris in all segments - individuals, families, groups, incentives & conferences. Nature Expeditions provides quality tours & safaris at affordable prices. And then do more!

Our Mission Statement
“To give clients exceptional service, exemplified by courteous, professional actions while subscribing to the highest standards of morals and ethics in the tourism industry”.

Own offices with 24 hours back-up services
With its fully owned offices and manned 24hrs a day, the company provides modern communication and back-up system for easy contact with clients, partners and suppliers. NATURE EXPEDITIONS is a member of “Kenya Tourism Federation” emergency communication center.

Comprehensive range of safari Itineraries
Backed by many years of experience, our staffs are well conversant in arranging safaris, and know how to plan the best and most dramatic itineraries. WE ALSO OFFER tours to suit individuals, families, groups, incentives and conferences. The company maintains its own web site www.natureexpeditions.com, which offers complete range of safari programs in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia.

Competitive Prices
NATURE EXPEDITIONS believe sincerely in providing a great product at a good price. Our prices are very competitive when all of our services are taken into account.

High Standard accommodation
Only the finest hotels, lodges and camps in the cities and out in the bush are selected. Each thoughtfully chosen to reflect not only our own high standards, but also the spirit of the itinerary in which it is used.

Quality transportation with guaranteed window seats
On safari window seat is guaranteed for each client. Each minivan or 4x4 cruiser has a mobile HF radio, cool box, reference books, and binoculars, First-Aid Kit. Our cost for minibus or 4x4 cruiser includes the services of driver-guide. All vehicles are always maintained and kept at excellent standards.

Trained guides and Meet-greet staff
The single, most important aspect of traveling through any country is the quality of the guides. Their knowledge, experience and companionship can make any trip truly magical and incredibly enriching. Every tour has a driver-guide who meets the clients at the airport, and be with them for the rest of their tour arrangements.

Each driver-guide has been taught not only safe driving, but also the Geography, History and Tribal laws in Africa. All speak English, and second international language and have initially trained at the prestigious Utalii Tourism College in Nairobi. Training is on going and all driver-guides and Safari guides are continuously updated in the fields of wildlife, photography, first-aid, vehicle safe driving and maintenance, conservation techniques, and language studies etc.

Unsurpassed personal Services
Your clients are met at the Airport by our representative, and similarly seen off on departure. At the Hotel a knowledgeable host or hostess will assist with their check-in and safari briefing. He/She will be available for them whenever they are in cities to help with shopping, appointment and packing. Should you wish us to protect your identity, this can easily be arranged. Airport representative and host/hostess will wear your badge or uniform, itineraries will be typed on your headed paper, and we will place your stickers on our minivans.

Continuous quality Control
NATURE EXPEDITIONS AFRICA is devoted to quality control, and ensures that all services are kept at the highest possible standards. These include drivers, vehicles, representatives and accommodation.

Supporting conservation efforts
The company is concerned about the continuing pressures eroding the fragile wildlife ecosystems in Africa, and in this regard NATURE EXPEDITIONS fully support goals and efforts of recognized conservations institutions.

Nature Expeditions Africa official website.

Jambo Kenya-My Kenya Safaris Special.

Day 1: Nairobi/ Amboseli

On Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by a NATURE EXPEDITIONS representative and drive South East of Nairobi to Amboseli National Park, one of the most popular parks on the Tanzania border offering unique spectacle; the backdrop is the snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain proudly standing at 19,344ft, and sometimes known as the “ROOF OF AFRICA”. Lunch at Kibo Safari Camp. Afternoon game drives until sunset. Dinner and overnight at Kibo Safari Camp or similar (full board).

Day 2: Amboseli

Spend a further day in Amboseli National Park, with morning and afternoon game drives. Here you can see a proliferation on Giraffe and Elephants. The 56 species in this park include Baboon, velvet Monkey, Lion, Cheetah, Zebra, Wildebeest and Grant’s gazelle. All meals at the Lodge. Overnight at Kibo Safari Camp or similar (full board).

Day 3: Amboseli/ Aberdares

After breakfast drive via Nairobi with packed lunches to Aberdares National Park. On our way we pass through the lush hill country of the Kikuyu people. This area is known for its growing of Kenyan arabica coffee beans. We arrive at Outspan Hotel in the afternoon and transferred in special vehicles to Treetops Lodge. Here we may see elephant, rhino, bongo (rare nocturnal antelopes with black on tan stripes) and other species. Dinner and overnight at Treetops Lodge or similar (full board).

Day 4: Aberdares/ Samburu

After breakfast, we depart this morning for Samburu Game Reserve arriving in time for lunch at Sentrim Samburu Camp. Late afternoon game viewing drive until sunset. Dinner and overnight at Sentrim Samburu Camp or similar (full board).

Day 5: Samburu

Spend a further day at your camp with full day game drives. There will be the reticulated giraffe, Gravy’s Zebra, Warthog, Gerenuk, Oryx, and if you are lucky, a Leopard. In the evening there is the opportunity to hear a talk about one of the tribes - the photograph these colorful people. Dinner and overnight at Sentrim Samburu Camp or similar (full board).

Day 6: Samburu/ Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, this morning we drive via Thompsons Falls down the floor of the Great Rift Valley escarpment to Lake Nakuru National Park, a protected game sanctuary for endangered species such as the Black/ White rhino, Rothschild Giraffe among other usual game such as the leopard and Lion. Lunch will be served at Lake Nakuru Lodge. Afternoon game drive until sunset. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Lodge or similar (full board).

Day 7: Lake Nakuru/ Maasai Mara

After early breakfast, morning drive across the Rift Valley escarpment to Maasai Mara Game Reserve arriving in time for lunch at Nyumbu Camp. Afternoon game drive until sunset. Dinner and overnight at Nyumbu Camp or similar (full board).

Day 8: Maasai Mara

Spend a further day in the Mara during which you will have the opportunity to explore this great reserve in depth. You will see elephant, giraffe, prides of lion, and thousands of impala, topi, grant's and Thomson's gazelle. The Mara is the scene of annual migration of millions of wildebeest up from the Serengeti plains in search of water and grasses. All meals included. And overnights at Nyumbu Camp or similar (full board).

Day 9: Maasai Mara/ Nairobi/ Depart

After breakfast at the lodge, morning drive back to Nairobi and transferred to JKIA for your outbound flight.

See More >>Jambo Kenya

Nature Expeditions Africa Ltd: Rwanda to 'baptise' 22 baby mountain gorillas

Nature Expeditions Africa Ltd: Rwanda to 'baptise' 22 baby mountain gorillas: "Rwanda to 'baptise' 22 baby mountain gorillas KIGALI Twenty-two baby mountain gorillas will be 'baptised' in a name-giving ceremony ne..."

Rwanda to 'baptise' 22 baby mountain gorillas

Rwanda to 'baptise' 22 baby mountain gorillas

KIGALI

Twenty-two baby mountain gorillas will be "baptised" in a name-giving ceremony next month in Rwanda's Volcans National Park, an official said on Saturday.

Conservation and tourism director Rica Rwigamba said the ceremony, which will be held on June 18, will give names to twins born in February, a rare occurrence for an endangered species which counts fewer than 800 individuals.
Mountain gorillas are Rwanda's main tourist attraction and accounted for 90 percent of tourism revenue in 2010.
"Like every year, renowned personalities will be part of the ceremony," Rwigamba said.

According to a 2010 census, the total number of mountain gorillas has increased by a quarter over the past seven years to reach more than 780 individuals.
Two thirds of them are found in the Virunga massif, which straddles Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rwanda has recorded only five twin mountain gorilla births over the past 40 years.

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