5. 1. 2019
Our last gamedrive in the Masai Mara started as usual early at 6:15am. Right in front of the camp Caleb discovered a serval cat. Although these smaller cats are common and widespread in Africa, it is still hard to spot them, because they are loners and difficult to spot in the high grass. We have only seen them twice on our previous trips and were therefore very happy to see a very nice individual again.
Photographically it was again a very special challenge. The sun had not yet risen and therefore the light was very sparse. I was again very happy about the fast f/2.8 400mm lens. Nevertheless, at ISO 6400 and an aperture of f/2.8 relatively long exposure times of 1/80 second were still necessary at the beginning - with 400m focal length and an continiously walking serval quite problematic. Nevertheless, I managed to get some shots, that I think are worth seeing:
Later on we found a well-fed Hippo grazing, posing for us in the most beautiful golden light of the sunrise:
Afterwards we watched some more birds. First a Helmeted guinea fowl from close range:
Afterwards a African Fish Eagle in flight:
Around 9:00am we headed back to the camp, where we had a last breakfast with omelettes freshly prepared by Chef Obi:
After breakfast and packing we went back with Caleb in the LandCruiser to Nairobi, where we arrived after a 6 hour drive at about 6:00pm. There we had plenty of time until our night flight with Lufthansa took off at 11:10pm back to Frankfurt.
It was once again a wonderful trip. It was very interesting to enjoy the Masai Mara this time at a different time of the year. Although the wildlife was much less rich than in August due to the lack of migratory animals, we had plenty of opportunity to observe the big cats, which stay in the Masai Mara all year round. A highlight this time were the leopards, which we could actually observe 5 times over a longer time and in unbelievable proximity. In my opinion leopards are the most beautiful cats of prey in Africa.
One advantage at this time of year was that there were significantly fewer tourists on the road. With our extensive photographic equipment we were mostly alone this time. In August, however, there were sometimes more Nikon and Canon super telephoto lenses in the vehicles at the rivercrossings than at the Olympic Games. This time most of the tourists actually photographed with mobile phones, soon left the scenes again and therefore often left the best positions to us after a short waiting period.
Also the accommodation in Mara Bush Camp - Private Wing was fantastic again. We have been there now for the 4th (and certainly not last) time and already felt at home. The staff is extremely friendly and obliging, our desires have been literally read from our lips. Especially to mention is the fantastic cook, Obi, who has always created culinary delicacies in the middle of the wilderness. Also with Nadine, the camp manager, we have talked long and very nicely and have learned a lot about the country & people.
But especially Caleb, our guide and driver during this great trip, should be mentioned. His infectious always good mood, his great experience, his extensive knowledge and his ability to always find the right positions for our shots with the Toyota LandCruiser have contributed significantly to make this trip unforgettable for us again.
Many thanks for that, Caleb!
While writing this report and looking at the pictures again, my desire to travel has already increased considerably. But:
After Africa is before Africa, we'll definitely come back!