African sunset. Photo by Linda Shaeffer.
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Have you ever been amazed by stories of animal friendships? A new book Unlikely Friendships, by Jennifer Holland, brings you photographs and details on 47 charming and often tear-jerking relationships between animals, many of whom are born enemies. One of the included stories is that of Kamunyak, a lioness in Kenya‘s Samburu National Reserve, who is famous for adopting and nurturing abandoned oryx calves. Make sure you mention this story to us when you book your next Ujuzi safari to Kenya and maybe you’ll get to see Kamunyak!
Posted in Animals, Kenya, Safari
Tagged Kamunyak, Kenya, Lion, Lioness, Saburu National Reserve, Safari
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Maasai boys at the beginning of their coming-of-age ritual. Photo by Linda Shaeffer.
Posted in Maasai, Photo
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Nyungwe Forest is one of the most endemic species-rich areas in all of Africa. Eighty-six mammal species reside in the forest and 14 are endemic to the Albertine Rift. The forest is filled with birdsong from the 280 species present in the park, of which, 26 are Albertine species and 121 are forest species. Nyungwe Forest is the most important ornithological site in Rwanda.
There are also 14 primate species, including: chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, and the endangered golden monkey. In fact, the majority of the chimp population in Rwanda is confined to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Trekking to see our closet relatives is an amazing experience, although these groups of chimps are wide ranging and there is a 30-40% chance of sighting these primates.
Large troops of black and white colobus monkeys reside in Nyungwe Forest. It is possible to purchase a permit to trek these animals. Walking through a montane rainforest and being surrounded on all levels by these active and cheeky monkeys is not to be missed.
There are extensive networks of well-maintained walking trails lead you through the forest to various waterfalls and viewing points. There are a variety of trails for whatever your fitness level and interests. A suspended walkway has recently been built in the lush canopy of Nyungwe Forest. This activity lasts 1-2 hours depending on how often you stop en route. You walk to one end of the walkway and return the same way. It is important to note that the walk-way does sway and if you have a fear of heights, you might not find this activity enjoyable.
Nyungwe Forest Lodge facilities include a bistro, an outdoor heated swimming pool, boma area for outdoor dining and drinks, relaxation retreat with a Jacuzzi pool, fitness center, conference facilities, tea lounge and bar, restaurant with a including private room with private terrace, and wireless internet access in the main lodge building.
Book your trip to Nyungwe Forest Lodge today!
Posted in Featured Lodge, Rwanda
Tagged Featured Lodge, Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Rwanda
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An editor for the L.A. Times traveled to Rwanda and chronicled her trip on the L.A. Times Opinion Blog.
Ever consider traveling to and through Africa to prove your love for someone? Here are two explorers who did.
Posted in Interesting Reads, Rwanda
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Some of the best photos of mountain gorillas were taken by those who care for and monitor these great apes: those at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International. Now these photos are available for you to make your own keepsakes via Gorilla Fund Photos, and 20% of all purchases goes to support the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
This is more than just a zebra's behind, these are called "follow-me" marks. The contrast with the surroundings help babies keep track of their mothers -- and help their mothers keep them safe from predators. Photo by Linda Shaeffer.
Male elephants have a reputation as loners. But studies in Africa have found different results: that male elephants have been observed to have a best friend and that younger males seek out older males to learn social behaviors from them. Caitlin O’Connell-Rodwell’s, “How Male Elephants Bond,” Smithsonian Magazine, November 2010 is an excellent journey into what she calls the “boys’ club” of male elephants.