Africa - From Coast to Coast: Touching down in the Serengeti

8 seats, 2 pilots and one hell of a view. Gliding over volcanoes with Mt Kilimanjaro piercing the distant clouds - we were on route to the land of the wild, The Serengeti. As the aircraft was thrown about above roaring planes and Masai fields, the anticipation was growing.

Unlike the customary pre-landing notice, our captain spun round and let us know the plane was about to dip down to land. Throttle dropped and nose down, the buffalo became more visible and the vast number of migrating wilderbesst began to flee from the approaching aircraft. Beneath on the run way, Zebras ran for cover and baboons reluctantly gave up their feed. The wheels touched down and dust billowed behind. As we tumbled down the runway, the captain offered his welcome before becoming the ground handling officer, the bagman and the immigration service. We had arrived in a place like no other - and what an entrance we had made.

There is no rest for the wicked when hunting the great migration. It is estimated that over 1 million wilderbeast make the migration through the Serengeti each year - having mated in the north, they follow the rains to the southern part of one of the worlds greatest environments. Their main hurdle, despite the preying Lion and Hyena, the Mara River. The Mara river runs between Kenya and Tanzania and is home to the worlds largest population of Hippo as well as copious Aquine life, including the deadly croc! It is here where observing the migration is most exciting - so provided us with an immediate game viewing opportunity.

Huddled under a tree high above the southern bank, we watched from afar as Hundreds of them mill about on the northern banks, all waiting for the most daring to make the first move. One decides to make the move to the lower shores - ten or so follow. They stop. Dip their toes in the water, akin to a small child battling with the temptation of jumping into cold water, they turn back. Another makes a move for the shores further down the beach - like sheep they follow. In a matter of hours we watched as they roamed from beach to beach, cliff to cliff desperate to find the best crossing point.

It seems that like a fearful child, it doesn’t take much for these beast to be spooked. So much as wind, the sound of difference or the altering light is enough to dissuade a group of would be crossers. When this happens, they run for the hills, escaping the dangers the Mara poses. But, when they do decide to go, the site is one to treasure. The sound of hooves is palpable, the rising dust a thing of beauty. The relief when all the little bastards get to the other side is something to behold.

Observing this process live was an incredible display of safety in numbers. The animals act in large numbers to ensure the best chance of success from one side to the other. The sleeping crocs and lazy hippos take full advantage of these dim creatures. This is after all their busiest hunting season.

As we jumped along the roads between the river and the camp - animals seemed to appear from every angle. Lions patrolled their territory and guarded their latest kill. It is during the migration that many prides rely on decent hunting to help them survive the dry season, when limited zebra and wilderbeast roam these areas.

Owing to a healthy feeding season, the cats were multiplying. Leopard cubs and Lion cubs made for exhilarating viewing. Remarkably, these cubs are left to their own devices from a very early age. Whilst the mother hunts, the local boulders become the playground for these pups. Hiding from grazing Hyena and wild dogs keen to pounce on any naive young cats, they still managed to mesmerize with their playful nature - slipping and sliding from rock to rock.

With the flowing rivers, the luscious forest and the long grasslands - the Serengeti provided one of the most magical venues to watch animals operate in their own environment. What’s more, Tanzania seemed well versed in tourism. Never did it seem overwhelming for either us nor the wildlife, cars were kept to a minimum. Likewise, their campsites a thing of beauty. Luxury tents awaited us on our return - come sun or rain. Coffee was served fresh at 0545 ready for the morning drive and the locals were on hand to impart their knowledge and support whenever we needed.

For a luxury safari experience to remember - Nomad Tanzania is sensational.