Birds of Eastern Africa: Migration or no migration

January is the time of the year when the great migration is scattered on the plains of Ndutu. Millions of wildebeests and Zebras are grazing in the plains and woodlands here, quenching their thirst from the saline lakes of Ndutu and Masek. It is breeding season now. They get to rest for a few months before they move again. Whilst many predators surround them, it is not as terrorizing, reminiscing the moments when they had to dare and cross the Mara River in the North of Serengeti. The crocs still have their bellies full.

No doubt both these spectacles, the crossing of the Mara & the breeding in Ndutu are moments of incredible sightings and memories, but there is lots of action still taking place in the Mara River even after the wildebeests have stormed through. Incredible numbers of antelopes (Topis, Elands, Gazelles, Oribis, Hartebeests, Impalas, Dikdiks etc.) are still carrying on with their normal lives. Territorial cats are still adapting to the habitats, always on the hunt for opportunistic meals. The elusive and aloof rhinoceroses still roam the savannah plains eating the leafy material it beholds. The social weaverbirds are still working harmonically in groups building their nests. The dung beetles are still busy rolling the dung balls for miles to be used as food sources or brooding chambers. The beautiful sunset still lights up the acacia trees in the horizon as if lit up like Christmas trees. Bernhard Grzimek very rightly said, ”Serengeti Shall Not Die” as it still is installed with magnanimous spectacles and beauty before & after the great migration every year.

During my recent visit to Northern Serengeti and my extremely pleasant visit at the Sayari Camp (Asilia), I firsthand witnessed “an action packed Serengeti”. Apart from the breathtaking game, the coffee was “sweet” and the wine “plenty”. This combination of brilliant game merged with a comfortable stay and excellent food would be anybody’s dream safari. You could always choose to have a nature walk with a chance to see elephants grazing, or hippos lazing around on the riverbanks, or choose to relax and unwind with a book or a cocktail by the pool, prepared by one of the friendly staff. Trust me, you will definitely want to get some recipes or two from the chef there!

You do not need to be a honeymooner or a frequent safari goer to enjoy it. There is a magical set-up altogether. You need to be there to feel it.

I need not say much more. These few pictures will speak the thousand words, which aren’t yet enough to brag about my unforgettable time in the Serengeti. What a start to 2014!

For more information on the camp please visit www.asiliaafrica.com

Akil Halai – 23.01.14

All Photos copyright @ Akil Halai