Travel Adviser : The great merry-go-rounds of nature

The idea of covering the two great migrations of Africa was proposed by Lawrence Dale of Scuba Adventures, a long-time associate and dive-buddy of Getaway‘s. On top of his tourism interest in the sardine run, he also organises travel packages affordable to South Africans through Select Africa Safaris to the Masai Mara.

MASAI MARA

WHEN TO GO

Migration season is from late June till roughly October. During this season the concentration of animals in the Mara is almost beyond belief. Out of season the Mara, however, is still one of Africa’s best game-viewing destinations.

WHAT TO TAKE

Light, cool clothing is recommended as it’s near the equator and usually warm during the day . Also take something warmer for early morning game drives. Mpata Safari Lodge has a pool so take your costume.

A pair of binoculars is recommended. If you are a photographer beg, borrow or steal the biggest lens you can – preferably in the region of 500mm. Most of your shots will be taken from vehicles so a beanbag is essential.

If you intend using electrical appliances, take along an adapter, as most Kenyan plugs are the 240-volt square-pin kind (British).

ACCOMMODATION

Although Mpata Safari Lodge is situated outside the reserve gates its location, perched on a nearby hill in the wildlife buffer area, is even better than most of those within the official park area. It overlooks the Mara plain and is only 10 minutes from the gate. Being situated outside the gate did not influence our game viewing at all as the Masai Mara is unfenced so land inside and out is continuous.

HEALTH

This is a malarial area and you should consult your nearest travel clinic or doctor for suitable prophylactics at least two weeks before travelling. In addition you require a yellow fever vaccination, which is always checked upon returning to South Africa from East Africa.

SARDINE RUN

WHEN TO GO

The sardine run is short and variable each year, usually occurring between May and June. Boats operate out of Port St Johns, Mbotyi and Mkambathi in the Transkei and between Port Edward and Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. Nobody yet understands exactly what governs the size or timing of the event.

During this time shark nets on the KZN South Coast are lifted to prevent excessive mortality of marine life, so swimming is risky. However, fishing is outstanding along the entire coast.
Diving among the shoals is relatively tough work, often requiring many hours at sea and rigorous beach launches – so interested parties need to be fit and agile.

ACCOMMODATION

Getaway stayed at the excellent Mbotyi River Lodge, which has comfortable rooms and good food. This is an appropriately small log-cabin style hotel in a wonderful part of South Africa. The other main, non-diving, attractions of Mbotyi are the numerous superb coastal and inland walking trails.

WHAT TO TAKE
The operators usually provide full scuba gear. You should provide your own wetsuit, dive computer, weight belt, mask, fins and other personal gear.

The water can be chilly and you tend to spend quite a few hours in your wetsuit, so it’s best to have one that fits
you comfortably.

WHO TO CONTACT

Packages to both Mpata and Mbotyi are available through Getaway Travel, in association with Select African Safaris and Scuba Adventures, contact our travel office in Cape Town on 021-551-6552, or e-mail info.getaway@-galileosa.co.za.